There’s only one real way to train for a long run… You run.
Six weeks before my first half-marathon, I could manage about 5km on a treadmill without stopping. That was my starting point. No perfect training plan — just consistency and determination.
Then race day arrived.
And I was sick.
The doctor advised me not to run.
But I had already made up my mind.
I had put in the work. There was no way I was backing out now.
So I showed up anyway.
The Race
It wasn’t easy.
I ran… I walked… and at times I seriously questioned my decisions 😅
But I kept moving forward.
My body only gave what it could that day, and I had to respect that.
The longest run I had done before this was about 15km, so stepping into 21.1km felt massive.
The Last 5km
That’s where everything changed.
I had nothing left in the tank.
Every step became a mental battle.
That final stretch was pure grit — running on stubbornness, determination, and a little help from GU.
The Finish Line
I crossed the line in 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Not my best. Not pretty.
But one of the proudest moments of my life.
Because it wasn’t about the time.
It was about showing up.
Pushing through.
And refusing to quit.
What I Learned
Your body doesn’t always feel ready.
Conditions won’t always be perfect.
But if your mind is strong enough… you’ll get through it.
And just like that…
I realised something simple, but powerful:
I’m a runner. 🏃♀️🔥
