Coleen

I love bridges. I also love running. So naturally, I love running to and over this wonderful bridge in the heart of Edmonton.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Walterdale Bridge has been giving me a sense of freedom once I'm on it. I feel invincible as I get lost in my reggaeton music - knowing the river is flowing with infinite possibilities below me - and run across the bridge. I was in the middle of training for the 2020 Banff Marathon when the pandemic hit and cancelled it. I was also in the middle of writing my Masters dissertation when the pandemic hit. So, I felt very isolated living and working by myself especially when the summer temperatures came. Running to and over the bridge was - and still is - a great way for me to feel invincible. It serves to remind me of my purpose and that only I can take control of my destiny.

I'm very grateful that there are many running trails close to nature in YEG. When the stressors of adulting and Covid are too much, I know there's always a place I can run to.

Pro-tip: running to an ice cream place is also a good way to get out of the house.