Chairman of the Marathon

I sat and watched the marathon
My body growing weak
Could I make it to the end?
The odds were looking bleak

The lines I saw of beaming smiles
The verve, as they began
All washed away with endless miles
Diluted as they ran

So many legs and bobbing heads
So many valiant dreams
As shuffling herds of strangers
Filled my TV screen

Straining hearts, screaming lungs
T-shirts dripping wet
I questioned this parade of fun
As I broke out in a sweat

Burning feet, hollow faces
The pain! It was clear
I’d have to get myself in shape
If I’m to watch next year