With just 3 more days to my first marathon, anxiety is filling my mind.
Looking back, it was sometime in April after I have completed my national duties as a NSMen that I began to think through about the things I want to achieve. On my list, for a long time, was to run the Boston Marathon. (An irony, I have more will power to train now than when I am still serving my national duties.)
The Boston Marathon was something I set in 2002. Deep inside, I know I wanted to do it.I said to myself, “I am 32 this year, and if I still do not start training for a marathon, it is unlikely that the goal can be achieved.”
Therein, lies my first step towards my goal. I started running regularly and taking part in races. First, it was the Mizuno Wave 10k run, next was the Army Half Marathon (AHM) and 3 more days from now, is the Singapore Marathon.
The Singapore Marathon, my first marathon, is my very first step towards the goal. The Boston Marathon is a pretty ‘elitist’ event. Due to its popularity, there is a certain qualifying time that you need to achieve. (For my age, I need to run 3hr 10s to qualify!!)
My plan is simple. Run the first marathon, complete it and enjoy the process. Year 2, 2007, will see more formal and dedicated training. By 2010, I hope to be able to qualify for it. I will be 36 then. A 4-year plan in the making.
Somehow, writing this post, reduce my anxiety about my coming marathon. I find a certain peace as my mind focus on what I want to achieve and how I want to achieve it.
I have learn from all the various runners (many from SGRunners, the best running community in Singapore!), how dedication, and doing the right training and getting the right nutrition is key to success. There is no shortcuts.
3 more days left, I am signing off this post. Time to carbo load again.
Best wishes to all runners and see you at the finishing line.