Did you happen to catch any of the IAAF Track and Field World Championships from Daegu, South Korea which took place earlier this month? Well, I watched some of the track events and never felt more in awe of the beauty of the human form. At the same time, I never felt guiltier about skipping workouts or more inspired to do better. I also observed that quite a number of runners had gold chains dangling around their necks. Apparently, Runner’s World has taken notice too.

World-class sprinter Sanya Richards-Ross wears a bullet necklace to competitions:

Sanya Richards at the Reebok Grand Prix in 2008

It was a childhood gift from her mother—a reminder for Sanya to run like a speeding bullet. By 2009, the necklace was so damaged that it had to be held together with a safety pin, but that year she won the gold in the women’s 400 meters at the world championships. At Daegu, although she didn’t fare as well, she was still wearing her beloved bullet.

My own version of jewelry-as-good-luck-charm is this necklace called “Winging It” that I bought at Verameat in the East Village this summer.

Winging It from Verameat

It’s an 18-inch gold fill chain with a gold brass charm. To me, it’s not a bird wing or an angel wing or a symbol of Icarus. Instead, it reminds me of the Winged Victory of Samothrace at the Louvre:

Winged Victory of Samothrace, 2nd century BC, marble

Sometimes referred to as Nike of Samothrace, the celebrated sculpture honors the Greek goddess of victory and a sea battle. Of course, I love Nike of Beaverton and have already written about my passion for the brand and what the brand stands for. So this necklace is my talisman representing courage, strength and perseverance.

I believe I can fly

Hey, it might sound corny but if I combine this necklace with my personal theme song* as I work towards my future goals, the sky’s the limit!

* Currently, it’s  “How You Like Me Now” by The Heavy.

Update on July 12, 2012: here’s an interview with Sanya Richards-Ross as she gears up for the London Olympics.