Dare mo. Shiranai.

Sunday, December 07, 2008

Run your own race. Climb your own Everest.

Many people were shocked when I told them I'm running the Standchart Marathon. The FULL marathon. 42.195km.

Can't blame them. Even I, myself didn't know why I wanted to do it. The furthest I've ever ran in my whole entire life was probably 4km? In a gym on a treadmill with the most ideal "weather condition".

And then came the 2nd Frequently Asked Qns - Why not try the 10km first?

Seriously, I don't know why.

The thought of completing the 10km or half marathon wasn't as exciting as the actual marathon itself. I've been taught to dream big dreams. And so, it became my goal. My focus in life when I've already lost directions.

Before long, it was the collection of our race packs! *excited*


Brother, being a 2nd time marathon-er (and my personal trainer for this marathon), said that we should load up on carbo the night before. Since our run is at 5.30am, it wouldn't be wise to have a heavy breakfast. The mere thought of it is quite scary. LOAD up CARBO.

Imagine an equivalent of like 10 potatoes or 5 bowls of rice or 1 loaf of bread. And then GO TO SLEEP.

What if.... it actually doesn't burn and become fats overnight??

But for the sake of my marathon... I ate a large plate of fusilli bolognaise.
Even Mom was impressed. She said she never see me eat so much before. LOL.

Next morning, 3 of us downed the Berocca drink and ate a bar before heading down to Padang.


Running the marathon taught me many lessons in life.

In fact, life is just like running a marathon. It's never about the destination, but the journey that matters the most. My journey towards training up for the run, my journey within the run itself, is something more memorable than the split second when I cross the finish line.

In life, we can never succeed alone. If not for my brother, I probably would have a much harder time completing the run.

There were times when we were just running around in circles, no shade nor scenary, and the air thick with exhaust fumes. And I started to get really frustrated. But never did I once doubt myself. For I know (as did other marathon-ers) that as long as we keep moving forwards, we'd eventually reach the finish line. No matter how tough the road that lies ahead, as long as we believe in ourselves, we will succeed.

We meet different people along the way. Some of them, you'd probably see once in your life. Some, appeared a few times. But they're all there for a reason. It was so funny to see those tourist in the Duck Tour Boat waving and shouting encouragements to us.

No matter young or old, male or female, race or religion, first timers or regulars, somehow I think people run marathons just to understand life better. Everyone should at least run a marathon once in their life.

For me, it kinda re-affirm my belief in my business. All the teachings being practised and reflecting back to life again. It's a circle! I'm so proud of everyone who participated that day!! Together, we achieved something. See you next year!

It's not about how fast you run. But how you complete your race.

Thanks to Brother & WJ for running with me. I seriously think it's the pasta. =p