Absolutely didn't want to run this half marathon today. My head wasn't in it at all, I'm shattered and stressed. But I spent yesteday evening being frustratingly sober watching my friends have a belting time so that I'd be in a fit state, so when the alarm went off this morning I though I may as well give it a go.
The course was a 5ish mile out and back before a full loop of the stunning Carsington Water. I did the out with no drama, but my head went during the back. This led to some of my standard cry-running, and I told myself I was going to throw the towel in when I saw Des and Dawn back in the race village before going on for the next bit.
But when I got there I never saw them, so instead of having a full cry I had a good word with myself! Physically, I was having a decent run, I just needed to sort my head out!
So I reminded myself that I'm a bloody stubborn mare and I won't give other people the satisfaction of seeing me bottle it five weeks ahead of London.
After I passed through the race village, the stunning reservoir opened up in front of me and I knew I could do this, I just needed to stay in the moment and enjoy it.
The rest of the route was undulating and challenging, but on I went. I walked if I felt I needed to and I exchanged some nice words of encouragement with fellow runners on the route.
Before long, I was back on the familiar paths I'd ran during that first section of the route which meant I knew the finish wasn't too far away.
The paths were getting busy by now, littered with people out enjoying the bank holiday. While this meant extra care was needed, it provided and additional boost with everyone cheering us on and wishing us well.
When the race village finally came into view, I felt so relieved!! Before I set out, I reckoned I had about a 2:30 in me today...and I was bang on!!
So even with a wobble and a very nearly DNF, I need to remember that I know myself, I know my abilities and I'm far too bloody stubborn to not achieve what I'm capable of!!
Kay Knowles has had a very up and down relation ship with running, I get to start a completely new story next week when Kay Oldham enters the room. Let's see what she can do!!
