Thoughts of a Runner-Blogger

I don't know if I share the same sentiments with other runner-bloggers each time they join races (or even just when they had their practice run). As for me, from the onset up to reaching the finish line, I am somewhat constructing sentences and paragraphs on how my blog post will be at the end of the race. I am even on the contemplation on what will the title of my blog post will be. I'm funny, I know!

NutriBar Hip 2b Fit Fun Run 2010

Last Sunday (July 11, 2010), CaptainRunner, RunningAtom, and I participated in Grower's NutriBar Hip 2b Fit Fun Run 2010 held at UP Diliman. I partake in the 10K category; while a number also took part in the 5K, 3K, and 3K parent-child races.

The beneficiary of this activity is the UP Padyak wherein Growers NutriBar will donate bike racks to be installed around the campus where bikers can safely park their single-speed cruiser bikes that can securely accommodate cable-locked bikes.

STARTING LINE

I requested my angel to position ourselves at the back of the 10K pack so that we won't be pressured to run faster and pace with the "elite runners". I really wanted to run my pace and somehow help me to be a negative splitter.

THE FIRST LOOP

Since I had a practice tempo run with ChickenLegs last Tuesday, I am successful with my endurance. I only got to stop after around 25 minutes of running. However, I am just curious why my footsteps had been very noisy in my first loop. But then, I just continue with my pace and never bother the "competitive 5K runners" overtaking me.

THE SECOND LOOP

The race route for the 10K is basically 2 loops of the 5K. Thus, after completing the first loop, I am now familiar with the route. This time, I am slowly accelerating. And I am quite astounded as my footsteps had silenced. Weird me, LOL! Jumping into conclusion: I am faster when my footsteps are quiet, and slower when they are making noise.

THE THOUGHT OF STOPPING

In the earlier stage of my running career (LOL!), I also took walk breaks every now and then. But with yesterday's run, I am quite impressed with my endurance. First, I ought to stop at the first hydration booth that I'll pass by. But after reaching the water station, I told myself, "No. Let me stop at the next marker." Upon reaching the next marker, I again told myself, "No. Let me stop at the turn-around point." That attitude goes on until I need to rehydrate. That's the only moment I got to stop.

THE 1:05 CHALLENGE BY JAZZRUNNER

Time check - I am already running for 40 minutes; 25 more minutes and the 1:05 challenge would be over. But with positivity, I said to myself, I can do this - I just need to continue running - and do not stop.

After a while, I gazed again at my watch and it registered 51 minutes. I got a little bit distracted so I changed my watch's mode to time so that I won't be bothered with my time.

Few meters before the finish line, a lot of thoughts had been running in my mind. I am juggling ideas. One thought is saying, "C'mon Sir Rene, give my Ms. Freebie." On the other side, "Okay, let's do it next time."

5 SECONDS

When the finish line is much clearer and is within reach, I spotted RunningAtom who is cheering me, "Madz, 5 seconds, 5 seconds."

I go for a strong finish, and I made it - 1:05:10. Another PR. And I am hoping that Sir Rene would be generous enough to consider this as a 1:05 :)

C'mon Sir, I started at the end of the pack :) Let's say I cross the starting line 10 seconds after the gunstart, hee hee.

RunningAtom, Blair, Me, and Glaiza

With the 2nd Placer of the 5K women category.
She's 12 years young :)

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Race Name: NutriBar Hip 2b Fit Fun Run 2010
Race Distance: 10K
Official Rank: 14/28 (F) 86/117 (Overall)
Official Time: 1:05:12
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