Running
a marathon is one of the most exciting experience of my life. I
believed that I couldn’t and wouldn’t be able to run a
half-marathon ever in my life but I broke my belief. I am not an
athlete or an avid runner till I have started thinking of running a
half-marathon.
I
have started my practice three months before and I was inspired by my
friend Mr. Gopinathan who is an avid runner. During my initial
days I was not even able to run 1 KM but I practiced everyday morning
with short distances. On weekends I tried to run slightly longer
distances than I usually do in weekdays. Gradually I started covering
more distance as the practice continued and it has boosted my
confidence.
I
was able to cover 17 KMs in one and half months. At some stage I
thought that I would not be able to run a half-marathon this year but
still I kept practicing. A month before the event, I was able to
cover 20 KMs. A bunch of our friends then registered for Amsterdam Marathon.
Running
a marathon
was a dream.
I felt more confident with my current performance and have tested
myself in Brussels Marathon on 2nd October 2016 which is just two weeks before Amsterdam
Marathon. I couldn’t believe myself , I have completed it in
2hr 30mins.
Brussels Marathon - Finish
Then
came the day for Amsterdam Marathon at historic Olympic
stadium. The weather was hot than usual and we arrived at the venue
by morning. The half-marathon event is scheduled to be at noon. We
were all super excited.
Then
it’s the time to start half-marathon. A bunch of our friends geared
up to the start line (Of course after a lot of snacks ;) ) equipping
our self with nice Group T-Shirts, BIB & with a bunch of
accessories. The race began and we started to carry a bunch of energy
and excitement in exploring Amsterdam. The support from the crowd was
outstanding.
After
I ran for about 18 KMs , I was completely exhausted. The weather
became more hot than usual. When I have just started to walk, there
were a bunch of kids who just read my name in my BIB and shouted
“Come on Ramesh…!” .I don’t know where the energy came from !
I started to run again, slowly and steadily.
Amsterdam Marathon - Finish
Finally I reached the Olympic stadium. Looking at
countdown every 100 meters. The finish mark began to glitter and
seemed to be waiting for me ! Yes, finally I reached and completed
Amsterdam Half Marathon in 2 h 31min. The happiness, confidence,
energy and the excitement I got after crossing the finish line is
incredible.
Trust
me ! Running marathons are super fun ! Definitely you will feel like
a Champion !
