NAME: Abass Kargbo
Chapter/City: ATLANTA
Years w/BMR: 2
What motivates you to keep running and stay committed to sports?
The fact that I know that running improves my mental abilities and helps me to stay fit and well, so I decided to make running my lifestyle so I can lead more people to get the same benefits.
I believe that everyone should have a fit and healthy lifestyle. That is why I make it my mission bringing Fitness awareness and self-motivation. That is what I do and helping people to achieve it is who I am. I run for my people!
Do you have any role models or mentors in the running community?
My role model in the running community is Jason Russell. I admire him for what he stands for, particularly after everything he has gone through to co-create this organization. He is dedicated to spreading knowledge about running and helping to save the lives of Black men from cardiovascular diseases, strokes, and more. Seeing any of my brothers out running brings me joy, knowing they are becoming stronger and smarter.
What has been your most challenging race and how did you overcome it?
My most challenging race was my first Publix marathon, particularly from mile 20 to mile 26. It felt like a wall was standing in front of me, but I used a mindset tactic called the “dedicate each miles ” to overcome those last 6 miles. I dedicated each mile to a family member, assigning the third mile to my dad. During the final three miles, I encountered another runner who was struggling with muscle strain. I told him, “I’m not going to leave you; we’re going to finish this together.” And that is exactly what we did—mind and our body united.
What is a typical week of training like for you?
I train six days a week and run at least five days. I do 70% conditioning workouts to strengthen my body.
How did you hear about BMR?
I signed up for Run the Muud. At that time, I was only a member of the Atlanta Track Club. I went out there in the morning for the event, and I saw guys wearing BMR T-shirts. In my mind, I want to join this group. It was my big brother Kenneth Hammond that I went to and asked how I could join this group and then he said you already joined I was so happy and know that it was meant to be. I found my tribe! Let’s go!!!
What do you enjoy about the brotherhood?
All the love and support for one another true brotherhood, fun and fellowship
What has running taught you about yourself?
Running has taught me that I am the creator of my own life. It has taken me to places that I once only dreamed of or saw on TV. I am more aware of my presence and the presence of others, and running teaches me something new every day. That’s why I am grateful for every day that I can run.
How do you celebrate your PR’s and milestones?
To be honest at this moment in my life, I do not celebrate PR. I just experienced the feeling of finishing strong at ease and I certainly know whether I am getting faster or not with stress.