After my Bangalore Sunfeast 10K ran, I got more motivation for long runs. I registered in “Runners for life” website. I frequently receives informations about marathon events from RFL. End of July, I got information about Chennai half Marathon . I discussed same about my colleague Sudhir. He was interested to participate.
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Usually during my school and college examination time, after pay the examination fee, I do start reading the subjects. I followed the same funda here also (it is totally irrelevant for long runs).
Till August first week my longest distance run was only 10 KMs. I have very poor confidence for 21 kms run. I discussed same thing about Sudhir, Asad, Sethu, Raghu and Abhi. Asad gave me workout plan. I followed workout plan without thinking too much. I completed 16 KMs run (Old Bangalore Airport -> Richmond Circle -> Old Bangalore Airport) before one week of Chennai Marathon. Meantime I Joined a YOGA class in beginning of August (I felt, it also influenced something for my marathon run).
Set for Marathon:
I got wishes from my colleagues, friends and family members on Friday evening. I started from Bangalore to Chennai by Lalbagh express in Saturday morning. When I was in train my friend and colleague Indranil called me and he guided me about food and deep sleep. I reached Chennai by afternoon. I met few Karnataka runners in Railway station. I went to Lady Wellington College. I have examined by Medical officer and got a certification for “FIT to Run”. Then I collected BIB number (i.e. ..810 –Other state ~Karnataka~ Category). I went to my classmate Murali Home for stay. Few of my Chennai friends called me. I met few Guys. Few of my friends and colleagues called and wished during eve of marathon day, but one of my close friend ram did not wish ( I was very sad about that ) . Indranil called me again and confirm i am following the guide or not. I explained to Karuppu and Gopal (both are energetic Guys ) about my pick up and drop plans in the event venue.
Race Day (29th Aug 2010):
I reached a venue half an hour before with Gopal. I did warm ups. I believed myself very much “I can do it” . Event started around 6:30 am. I prayed a God for few seconds and started the prestigious Marathon. Chennai weather was Moderate. Race route was Anna square - > Marina beach -> Light house -> Besant Nagar beach -> Light house -> Marina Beach -> Anana square.
Around 300 participants in 21 KMs category. I completed first 10.5 Kms in 1:03 minutes as per my timing chip ( I forgotten to wear my wrist watch ) . After 19 KMs completion, I am not able to run at all. I managed and completed my “Maiden Half Marathon” in 2:17 minutes. My Rank was 104.
I got a first congrats from Indranil. I got a Congrats messages and calls my friends after my race. We back to room and again. We took "Vaigai Express" and I reached my village around 8:20 pm. I had very deep sleep with happy mind.
I believed that day, Something I achieved in my life ( I don't know why I felt like that ).
I become a Half Marathon Runner.
Thanks for All my Guides, Colleagues, friends and family members, who are directly and indirectly supported for my achievement.
Photo courtesy: Vinoth and Google search.
