I was getting last place in races – I even remember quitting for a year to play tennis, but something called me back to you. I feel like we have had a love/hate relationship these past 15 years, and at times, I have contemplated breaking it off, but, just as when I was younger, something kept stopping me and bringing me back. Now that it’s all over, I realize that one thing was love. While I may have not liked my event, I loved you.

I am certain I would not be the same person without you. You showed me new places I may have never seen, from Times Square to Nanjing, China.

You have taught me dedication beyond belief, teamwork and selflessness. All of this – our time together – has modeled me into the woman I am today, so, in a way, you are still a part of me and for that I am forever thankful.