Posted: June 21, 2005

Health and Fitness: 20 Steps - Twenty steps to keep you going when you think you couldn't possibly - in running and in life

20 Steps is a compilation of some of the articles on running and other sports that Louise Rachlis has written over the past eight years, since turning 50.

By sharing her athletic journey, she hopes others will also experience the joy and excitement of taking on new challenges at any stage of their life.

Louise Rachlis is Advertising Features Editor at the Ottawa Citizen, which has printed the book.

All proceeds will be donated to the Ottawa Hospital, as part of the Ottawa Citizen’s fundraising team for the 2005 Ottawa Race Weekend.

The book can be purchased at the Ottawa Citizen front counter, 1101 Baxter Road, Ottawa, ON K2C 3M4;
by mail order from lrachlis@thecitizen.canwest.com,,
from Running Room Ottawa, 901 Bank Street location only,
and from Cycle Logik, 358 Richmond Road, Ottawa.

Price is $9.95 plus GST; $10.65. There is a $1 charge for mail order.

Proceeds from motivational book on running to benefit the Ottawa Hospital

The first 20 minutes are the hardest

Twenty steps to keep you going when you think you couldn’t possibly – in running and in life Here are some unsolicited comments Louise Rachlis has received about articles which are included in 20 Steps:

“You really inspired me with your story about your running career...I am your Windsor kindred spirit...I have my moments when I wonder how I will ever find the strength both of body and mind to cross the finish line, but reading stories like yours gives me an added incentive and bolsters my courage.” – Linda Bourdeau, Windsor, Ont.

“I just read your article on the Masters swimming and chuckled to myself as I recognized many of the misgivings that I shared with you on starting in the Masters group myself this spring. Great article, although I don’t think that I will go as far as a triathlon!” – Darlene Pearson, Ottawa, Ont.

“Very inspiring to read about your continued athletic exploits. And swimming’s a toughie to take up later in life.” – Barbara Crook, Ottawa, Ont.

“It was so nice to read this morning that other people have gone through the same process ... My friends, avid triathletes, assured me that there was no way to finish last, as I would always finish ahead of those who didn’t even start! They were so right! So – thank you again for sharing! Onward and upward to more enjoyment of the sport for all of us!” – Patricia Benoit, Ottawa, Ont.