Running the Cape Town Marathon was undoubtedly one of the most physically challenging experiences I’ve ever encountered, second only to giving birth. Despite my initial determination to train beforehand and purchasing an early bird entry in April, various factors hindered my preparations. The burden of work piled up, accompanied by frequent business trips, leaving me drained and lacking the energy to commit to training. Nevertheless, armed with my entry and unwavering determination, I pressed on.
Running the Cape Town Marathon was probably one of the hardest physical challenges I’ve faced, second only to giving birth. My intentions were good—I even purchased an early bird entry in April with every intention of following a training plan. However, work responsibilities piled up, and I found myself traveling extensively for business. When I was home, I lacked the energy to dedicate to training. Nevertheless, I held onto my entry and remained committed.
Two weeks before the Marathon, my husband and I attempted a 5km run, and it turned out to be a disaster, highlighting just how unfit I was. But on race day, my excitement soared. The collective energy of all the runners was contagious.
During the first kilometer, I made the mistake of setting a too-fast pace, depleting my energy early on. I adjusted my pace, incorporating a run-walk strategy. One of the highlights of the race was the fellow runners I encountered on the road, all with the same goal: crossing the finish line. My personal objective was to surpass each cut-off point along the course. By the time I reached 17km, my hip was in extreme pain, causing my pace to slow down considerably. Yet, I remained determined to run until I couldn’t run any longer or missed a cut-off time.
Before that day, the farthest distance I had ever run was 10km back in 11th grade. This experience taught me that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. My body proved its resilience and capability, exceeding my own expectations. Running 24km on my first attempt at a marathon, in my books, was undoubtedly a victory. Even though I couldn’t walk properly for the following week, it only fueled my determination to keep pushing forward and become even fitter.