My First Run
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FINALLY! I had my first run...
It happened in the best setting I could ask for...in my beloved Central Park as part of a "Japan Day @ Central Park" festival.
I really didn't know what triggered me into registering for this race. I do jog regularly but I'm FAR from being qualified as a "runner"....I guess seeing how much people here embrace this sport is what finally got me.
I first learned about "Japan Day @ Central Park" event several months ago. At that time, I didn't even know there'll be a race. I focused on the performances, FREE food and FREE food :) ...and it's in the park! Why in the world wouldn't I attend?!!!
Until about a week ago, closer to the event day (June 3), I accidentally found their official website and learned of this race. It's a (very) mini marathon, 4 miles (roughly 6.4 kilo). It might sound like a short distance but for a beginner like me, that's far enough to make me think twice...(not to mention those slopes and the fact that I'll be running on a concrete surface rather than on a soil like I usually do).
I did the math...comparing my normal running distance around the reservoir (~ 3.2 miles) with that of this race (4 miles) + a slightly higher degree of difficulty (mentioned earlier)...then consulted with my friend (who's very supportive and agreed to run with me)...finally, I decided to go for it!
Even though I didn't finish first, or second or wasn't even in the first quartile of the entire population of this race, I, in fact "FINISHED". That's the thing I'm most proud of.
The first mile was tough with a big slope and the sight of everyone passing you by (or so it seems) but I stick to my initial thought, to pace myself. Then, there was the 2nd mile...the 3rd mile...and the FINISH LINE.
I've seen it several times on TV before and I heard people say a marathon teaches you about life. I believe that, but listening to what other people say is nothing like experiencing it yourself.
A marathon, like life...it's long and hard, and the start is always the most difficult. There're times when you think "god! I don't think I can go further...it's still such a long way" but you don't stop...and when you hit the finish line, you're glad you didn't.
Along the way, you see people from different walks of lives, suddenly, in the same course as you...all trying to get to the finish line. Then, there are people on the sidewalks who don't even know you, cheering you on..."Come on!...you can do it!", "Good job!". Seriously~, it's the first time I realize how greatful and happy I am to "be cheered".
The most important thing I learned from this race, though, was that it's hard to run alone...just like in life. I didn't talk much to my friend during the race (not that I didn't want to or that I was so focused but I was too tired to even open my mouth) but the mere presence of my friend just made a big difference for me...I'm really grateful for it :)
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And that's my first and official "DEBUT" as a New York Road Runner. I hope there will be several more if not many many more, to share with you in the future!
Ganbatte yo!
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PS. The top pic is the back of the race's T-shirt...a keepsake to remind me of "my firt run" :) Right above is the race map and below is the JP day's performance stage. Enjoy!
| Create Date : 05 มิถุนายน 2550 |
| Last Update : 5 มิถุนายน 2550 7:38:06 น. |
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ผู้ติดตามบล็อก : 2 คน [
ที่จริง 1 miles = ~ 1.6 kilo(meter)...ตอนนั้นสงสัยมึนไปหน่อย ~แหะ แหะ เพราะฉะนั้นที่วิ่งรอบๆที่กักน้ำรอบนึงก็ประมาณ 2.72 kilo ค่ะ...