This Girl Can
Just over two years ago I was overweight, desperately unfit and worryingly
unhappy with my life. I had zero confidence and often struggled finding ways to
get by from day to day.
Then I discovered running.
What started out as a way to essentially lose a little bit of weight,
completely turned my entire life around.
Today I ran the Plusnet Sheffield Half Marathon - a race I had my heart set
on running for a very long time.
Here is my heartfelt and honest account of today:
I was so anxious and nervous yesterday as nerves began to set in, waking up
this morning I felt excitement and eagerness to arrive in Sheffield city centre.
The fact I was running completely alone daunted me, especially as groups of
people began to gather at the starting zone. I felt a little bit like a little
fish in a big sea. But I knew, my passion for running would get me through.
The pursuit out of the city centre upto Ecclesall Road was truly brilliant; I
felt a thrill running past some of my favourite haunts. It was when approaching
Ringinglow Road (dubbed the King of the hill) - I began to feel the pain set in. I have little experience of
hills and the quite ironic gusty wind did not help. But, I pushed through
and I spotted a work colleague in the crowd who eagerly spurred me on.
Once up the hill, the course really took me on a whole new experience -
trail running, in the tip of the Peak District. I was absolutely in my element
running through the amazing scenery, Sheephill Road was a breath of fresh air. It was after this point, I really
struggled - coinciding with needing the toilet (really badly); I did have a
moment in my mind wondering how I was ever going to get to the finish line.
The downhill pursuit back into Sheffield centre, was a little more relaxed,
but on approaching the final 3mile mark - I ached, I pained, I felt absolutely
drained and exhausted. I kept thinking I wouldn't be able to make it, and felt
so disappointed in myself. I reminded myself how far I’d come and giving up was
not an option.
I don't know how - but I found that final spur of energy in my gut, and that
last 10 minutes seems a complete blurry image for me. Seeing the final finish
line, I gave it my all. Ran passed the cheering crowds and passed the line
literally into the arms of a paramedic! I was shaking, and could barely walk -
this was definitely the most I have ever pushed my body.
I did manage to walk after this and then eventually find my husband and
family, after a little cry on the side of the street. Gosh, the emotion I cannot
even describe.
It was every inch physically and mentally draining today. But, up until
the age of 23 I had never done any sort of exercise, I dodged PE like the plague
and never took part in after school activities – something I deeply regret. Running
like I did today demonstrated that being physically fit is not a gift nor
something you are born with – it takes time, dedication and focus to train and
transform your body.
Finishing the race was my ultimate goal, and as the pain had overtaken all
my thoughts on a decent finish time. As you can imagine, I was completely
astounded and shocked, when I realised I had finished in less than 2 hours - my
absolute ultimate dream for the race originally when I applied back in January.
This is a tale of hard work, determination and having your heart set on
changing something. All I ever wanted was to find confidence in myself and
happiness and fulfilment in life – running has undoubtedly provided me with
that and I couldn’t ever be more thankful.
Literally, believe me when I say: anything is possible.
♥
This is such an amazing achievement, well done you!
ReplyDeleteMaria xxx
Alice, you are utterly inspiring! Your race time is brilliant and your gutsy determination has made you who you are today xx
ReplyDeleteWell sone Alice, really proud of you xx
ReplyDeleteYou've done very well Alice! I admire anyone who can run!x
ReplyDeleteInspirational indeed, congrats Alice!
ReplyDeleteWell done Alice!
ReplyDeleteLizzie Dripping
Congratulations! :)
ReplyDelete