The last time I joined a fun run was over 10 years ago. And between those years, I lived a pretty much sedentary existence. There were several attempts to adapt a healthier lifestyle but never really succeeded. So this run was more than a one day event for me. It was the culmination of several months of struggle to becoming a better version of myself.
Motivation and Signing Up
Early this year, one of my admired celebrity had took up running and was seen in the streets of Ayala Ave during car-free Sundays. Seeing his photos and video clips brought back memories of my running days and made me want go back into the game. Quoting one of his favorite lines, “Let’s go!”
So I started training while looking for possible run events that I can join.
I think I found Women’s Run PH in Facebook. It’s the first time I’ve heard of it and my initial reaction was, “Women’s Run? All women? Really?”. I checked their website and liked what I saw. Their advocacy of promoting women’s health thru running is awesome.
And then I found out that the founder was Nicole Wuthrich-dela Cruz, the wife of Coach Rio dela Cruz of RunRio. I know of Coach Rio back in the early days of his RunRio company. I even had a photo with him during one of the running events that his company organized. I am familiar with his inspiring life story as well as his love story. His proposal to Nicole in 2011 was a real sweetie.
Anyway, I signed up as early as July and bravely committed to a 10k run even though I can barely run a kilometer without passing out at that time!
Preparation
I have never appreciated our home treadmill that much until I signed up for this event. It was a joint purchase with my sister 2 years ago but I have not fully utilized it until today. It was that equipment that helped me improve my running form and speed without the need to go out. I also do outdoor runs but only on Sunday mornings in UP Diliman with my 18yo son.
Last July 20, I joined a WRPH and UP Dreamers organized Training Run in UP Diliman. It was a 5k run that took me forever to finish. But a few days later, I signed up for the 10km event. Crazy, right?
Gear Up
As I mentioned, I was pretty much a couch potato in the past several years. So, I purchased a few items to inspire me to get my butt off the couch and do the work to reach my goal. Nothing fancy, just stuff that I considered essential even back in the day.
First and foremost, I bought a new pair of running shoes because I didn’t have one. A reliable pair that would carry me from Start to Finish of a 10km course.
Second, I got myself a running watch so I can track myself. It gives a tangible evidence of my progress.
And lastly, a week before the day, I purchased an open ear wireless head phone so I can listen to music while I run. It’s also a sort of distraction to help me concentrate on the present and not worry about how far before the finish line.
Race Kit Delivery Hiccup
The race kit delivery started in September but I still have not received mine two weeks before the event. Apparently there was some an attempt to deliver before but it failed and the item was returned to the organizers. However, I was not informed about any of this. Had I not inquired when I did, I do not know what would have happened to my race kit. It took about a week of back and forth emailing (because they do not have a phone number) with the organizers before I finally received my kit.
D-Day
Expectation: Get there early and meet up with my cousin who also signed up for the 10km run. I was looking forward to seeing her because we have not seen each other for quite a while. I was also excited about the pre-run events – opening talk of the founder, the pep talk, the warm-up exercises and of course the sound of the gun start while colorful confetti shower upon the charging runners.
Reality: We got stuck in traffic at the corner of Commonwealth and University Avenue that I was compelled to go down and walk/run the rest of the way. So in reality, my race began about a kilometer before the official starting line. When I got there, the official clock says that the other runners had a 3min head start already.
My stomach was already in knots since the previous day worrying that I might not reach my goal. So being late for the very first time since I started joining runs only made me more stressed. But as they say, the show must go on. It took a while, though, before I got my bearings back. I think it was after I made it to the first water station (at the 2km mark) and had my much needed drink, that I started to calm down.
The “good morning” greeters and cheerers stationed at different parts of the race track were a mood booster. They were so jolly you can’t help but smile.
Several water stations serving water and Gatorade starting from the 2km mark and at regular intervals throughout the course. We were adequately hydrated. And I appreciate the fact that no used paper cups were littered on the ground. Everyone were responsible enough to dispose them properly.
Road markers showing directions and kilometers ran were placed along the way. Each kilometer marker passed always feels like a little win and I quietly rejoice. There were also some motivational quotes to keep our spirits up.
Several photographers were positioned in almost each corner of the race course. They were an added motivation especially at times when I felt tired because I tend to be faster on my feet to either get away from them asap (because I don’t want my photo taken) or look like a serious runner if they do take a shot.
I guess my only issue was during the first hour when it was still dark. There were areas where I would have appreciated a street lamp or any source of light. It was a little unnerving to not see the ground I was running on.
Finish Line
Despite the late start, I was still able to finish in less than 2 hours. Goal achieved! A milestone for this almost golden gal who can’t even climbed up a flight of stairs without getting breathless just a few months ago.
It was a happy surprise to find distinguished men in barong awarding each runner with their finishers medal by carefully placing them on their necks. I felt like a real winner!
Abundant Loot Bag
The finisher’s loot bag was filled with so much goodies. From sunscreens to drinks to medicines. There was still several booths in the venue giving away freebies but I was already too tired to line up.
Post Run
Hubby and I went for the big kill – a breakfast buffet! I figured I deserved it. We went to
Sweet Inspirations in Katipunan where I had 2 plateful rounds in the buffet table plus coffee and orange juice. Then dessert of Maja Blanca and Puto Bumbong.
Overall, I had a good run. Personal goal achieved with no injuries and a bountiful loot bag to take home. On to the next run…
