Last Saturday, 17th September 2016, after more than 16 events since I started running in 2016, I run for 21km (13 miles). It was a momentous decision for me to enter the half marathon event. But I was lucky that I have a group of friends that keeps on pushing and supporting each other.
I still remember when the first time I entered my first run, it was only for 3 km fun run. I thought it was hard, but at the same time when I finished it, the feeling of accomplishment was really awesome.
Then I started to register more events, but the longest distance was only 15km. My aim for these runs was to run with better time than the previous ones and to finish each run. It's just a self-accomplishment knowing that I can push myself to be better.
When I was asked to register for the 21km run, I was hesitant at first. Though I managed to finish a 15km run successfully, I know 21km run is a different ball game altogether. I'm not sure I have the energy to finish it within the stipulated time period. But then, the guys in the group kept on encouraging me, and even one of the guy promised to run with me throughout the whole course.
The hardest part of all this was the preparation, mentally and physically. It was hard to fully focus on the training because after the end of the day, normally I was a bit exhausted with all the office work. Normally I will jog on my own, but for this run, I decided to jog with my group.
On the day of the event, as usual, we had to drive to the location very early in the morning. The run was supposed to be flagged off at 6:30 am, but due some adverse weather a few hours before, it was postponed until 7:00 am. Flagging off the run late in the morning was a bit hard for most runners because at that time, the sun was very bright, and it was really humid.
I was glad during my run, two of the guys in my group accompanied me. I managed to finish it within 3 hours and 27 minutes. I know it was nothing to shout about, but when I crossed the finishing line, I knew I managed to push myself beyond my comfort zone. Though I will not run any 21km events anymore this year, I was glad that I did it.
Comments
Thank you for your sweet words Sewar. I'm glad I'm being surrounded by many good friends whom I can count on when I'm in need. God bless you, dear.
My dearest, lucky you. Always remember that one thing is certain in life. you and real friends around you will make miracles. God bless you.
Thank you Rajib. I'm still learning :)
noaslpls
Excellent work you have done. It is very challenging work. Wish you all the best.
Thank you Setareh. Yes. it's really awesome when we managed to push ourselves beyond our comfort zone.
Ughh Mary,
If a bear is chasing me, I will be as fast as Usain Bolt. LOL. You're right. Motivation is the most important thing in anything we do. At the moment, I have a group of amateur runners that keeps on motivating each other. So, it's much easier for me to be motivated. But who knows what will happen in the future. :)
Thanks for your nice words, though I'm far from a super runner. More like a turtle-like runner. Hahahaha
I'm glad to read that your ankle is ok Dara Gino. I've read your blog but I believed everyone have given their views on it, so it's not important for me to add mine. Thank you.
What a great feeling when we prove to ourselves that nothing is impossible if we believe in ourselves and try hard. Well done Noa!
Ugh noas, I feel tired just reading you...
I like running but I need some motivation now. Motivation like a bear chasing me, for instance...
Anyway, congrats! you're a super runner! ^_^