Last weekend, I’ve completed a full circle.
Before 19 March 2022, I’d never participated in an organised run in my entire life. That day, was the first time I did. I ran 10k at the QE Olympic Park (bib 1778). It felt amazing! So I went home and booked the next one.
Throughout the year, I had one goal in mind: participate in at least one race per month, and challenge myself in areas I never dared pushing myself in before. What I didn’t expect was that I’d be so hooked on running, that I’d even dream of it at night, and I’d observe in detail the posture, foot strike, cadence and breathing of any runner that zoomed past me.
On 24 September 2022, I returned to the Olympic Park and did another 10k at the Lee Valley VeloPark (bib 2478). I was euphoric for a number of reasons – this is where it’d all started after all! But also, on that following weekend I’d be participating in nonetheless than the London Marathon!!! I was very pleased to complete the 10k race 4 minutes faster than I did in March. Not bad for someone of my age, who wouldn’t run for the bus, even if it was the last one!
One a month organised runs turned into one a week this last summer, and the distances increased to include half-marathons.
Remember I told you that I pledged to challenge myself? It didn’t stop at running. I’ve learnt to ride a bike this year, and have been taking 1-2-1 swimming lessons. I’m keeping an eye out on the RunThrough duathlons and triathlons taking place in 2023. Wish me luck!
You can still make a donation to Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK on my fundraising page here: https://
