Amsterdam Marathon 2016 - My Experience

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 !