Mr. Shay, Alicia, the Shay family, the Craig family, and all of Ryan's friends;
I am so sorry for your loss. The stories I've read about Ryan this week have given me a glimpse into the life of a man who was loyal, brave, hard-working, and intense. These are qualities that distance runners everywhere value. It struck me that Ryan so perfectly embodied the ethic of the American distance runner. All of us who pour our hearts and souls into something (whether it's running or some other pursuit) have been touched by the loss of Ryan Shay.
Since I first began following Ryan's career in 2001, I have always felt that he was a runner whose competitive ferocity was worthy of praise. We can look at photographs of Ryan in races and practically feel the intensity emanating from his eyes. Ryan, I think, was well-respected in the running community because he embodied the work ethic and competitive spirit that we all desire to possess. In general American distance runners tend to present a very positive public image, and no one more so than Ryan. He will be remembered as a man who truly personified the values of hard work, loyalty, and bravery. We will miss Ryan Shay the runner, but as we hear the stories of Ryan's mettle, his intensity, and his honesty; we mourn Ryan Shay the man.
As Ryan's family and friends, this loss is truly yours. It is hard to imagine what you are going through this week, but the thoughts and prayers of the running community across America and beyond are with you in this difficult time.
You have my thoughts and prayers,
Eliot