Jeff Benjamin sent me a note.
He sends me notes each and every day. Jeff, the RBR senior writer for Staten Island, is often my eyes and ears on what is going on around the world.
Rod Dixon is the 1972 Olympic bronze medalist in the 1,500 meters. Rod Dixon won the 1983 NYC Marathon.
Rod Dixon is so much more than those two performances. I have known Rod for over two decades and must say, he is one of the kindest people that I know. He loves athletics, and his Kids Marathon program has inspired generations of young people to take up running.
Rod Dixon is kind to everyone. He is thoughtful, and he is also a warrior. He knows what it takes to be one of the best in the world. When Rod Dixon won NYC, many were shocked that a former miler could race the marathon.
Many forget that Rod is classically trained. He ran cross country and track, then moved to the roads. His 1983 marathon against Geoff Smith was one of the truly great moments of our sport, and an awakening for many about the story of the marathon.
Enjoy this video, and share it with teams and clubs; Rod would love that!
