Having had run two half marathons last year, signing up for the full seemed like the logical next step. Largely inspired by my race experience in Turin, I chose another overseas venue for my marathon goal. I’ve commissioned a few friends to join me in Lisbon in October to either race with me or wait for me at the finish line. My friends are not as delulu as me so it looks like I’ll be completing the full marathon on my own though one of said commissioned friends, KC, is contemplating to sign up for the half. My friend Tina’s mom, thru her sister Khate, asked why it had to be in Portugal. I couldn’t really find a more perfect response to capture the essence of this decision than the below still from an Instagram reel.
It’s hard to believe that from barely being able to run a few kilometers two years ago, 42.2km seems no longer impossible to reach. I’m still a long ways from it but I intend to make my marathon training my entire personality for the next few months so I am confident I will get there. As a first time marathoner, my main aim is to finish the race and enjoy the experience. I’ve set a time goal of sub-five which I believe is challenging enough but achievable for my level. But the other day, my grandmother apparently saw me on the road outside the house just when I was finishing a run. “Aw mao na tong run diay, hinay man.” Hahahahaha my grandmother is unimpressed. I am humbled.
At the risk of sounding preachy, running has tremendously improved my quality of life. Physically, I feel that I am at my strongest but mentally, I feel that I have reached nirvana. Running has become my favored form of meditation. It has helped stretch my mind’s capacity to withstand the many demanding aspects of my life. I am truly happier for it.