Last weekend was marathon weekend in Budapest and this is a marathon length celebration post. It was a feast of running and a feast of the other sort. More of the latter later.
Back in August, before I graduated, I asked your collective advice about signing up for the 5K and, with your encouragement, I did so. I was nervous but excited too. Fortunately, I had little time to think about it as I had a houseful of guests. Two friends come from UK to run the 10k with my husband, and our gorgeous son flew in from London to run his first marathon. There was also a small but very important non-running support team.
I read a lot about eating for a marathon before my (28 year old) boy came home and the menu for days before was carb heavy. We all ate with him; an important job for whole support team.
Saturday was 5k and 10k day. I was up early to feed those in need and to make tea for the others, gathering water, sports drinks, poo bags (for the dog), and not forgetting the cool bag full of ice for my friend and her recovering Achilles for after the 10k. I dropped the three 10k runners as close as I could get to the start and then began the arduous job of finding a parking space. Job done, I set off in the direction of the Danube laden down with a stuffed backpack, the increasingly heavy cool bag, and Juno who was overexcited and needed to sniff everything and do her business at the least convenient moment. The rest of the support team were following in a taxi, but I suspect they finished the pot of tea first. I eventually reached the river just in time to see the three runners pass and then rushed back to the finish line to be ready to cheer them over. The trailing support team arrived in time for the victory celebrations.
Lots of congratulations and then it was my turn. There were over 3000 runners and my brisk walk was to find my place in the 'over 30 minutes' area. I was reassured to see that it was the most populated of all. The sun came out just as we started - not part of the plan and - I spent most of the race worrying about not wearing sun-cream. It was hot and the last 500 metres was hard, but my supporters were very vocal in their encouragement. I had a great big grin on my face when I heard my name announced as I crossed the finish line.
The icing on the cake was a great performance by my son on Sunday who completed the marathon in 3hrs 50mins and raised a sackful of money for Crisis. The race was along both banks of the Danube which provided lots of stunning views and plenty of chances to see the runners. We saw our son 6 times on his journey. A few celebratory beers may have been consumed afterwards.
I enjoyed watching the races last year but never imagined I’d be a participant. Three months ago I couldn't run and, thanks to C25K and you lovely folks, I now have my first medal and official 5k time of 33.50 in the bag. And wonderful memories of taking part in a glorious festival of running.
Missed you all.5K today
5k in Vegas - week 8 run 3
Something that struck a chord
Anniversary 5k
From C25k to half marathon in a year
