Today was a perfect evening for running. It was a breezy 67F and a run along the river. Hordes of people, all in costume for Halloween, grouped together. The excitement and anticipation were palpable. Then we were off!
I started off at a faster pace than normal, not too fast but I did want to set a personal best. After the first half mile, as I was dogging children and adults alike - trying to not fall down or over someone, I thought maybe I should slow down. But my legs felt strong and I was singing along to my earbuds.
The first mile down, then the mile and a half mark. The water station was up ahead and people were packed like sardines to get that minuscule cup handed to them. I went wide, avoiding them to continue on.
I look down at my watch a little after the two mile mark. I am at 2.5 and need to push to get the 30 minute finish I wanted. I push too hard and half to slow down to a brisk walk for about 20 seconds. I continue on and then I see the finish. Legs don’t fail me now! I run as hard as I can, passing children, parents and Waldo.
I didn’t quite finish in 30 minutes but did record a personal best - 31:54. That’s me, passing Waldo, right before my photo finish.
Three months ago, I would have laughed at the thought of me running. Now here I am preparing for my next race! Thanks Couch25K and to this community. There is hope for anyone that starts this program to finish.