A little reminder of why you are here...
Dear Pondo,
Read this again on the 25th April!
I am writing this little post to try and help you with your pre-race nerves, you have more than likely been pacing round the room, not really settling all night and then you will be going to sleep tonight thinking about how you will let everyone down in Blackpool.
Well, I want to remind you of why you are doing this and how much effort and time you have put in to making sure that you can and will cross that finish line as proud and strong as ever.
Back in November, you struggled to run 3 mile, you thought that the pace you were running at would be a laughing stock on race day. You signed up to the Blackpool Half with the intention of eventually finishing it to see if a full marathon was possible.
You chose to start training in the worst weather possible. Freezing cold rain, harsh winds, icy conditions, and did I mention the rain? Yet, you still pushed on and even though you missed a couple of training runs with ill health or dodgy feet, it doesn't matter, you still put the effort in with every run. The missed ones will have no impact on your run on the day, there is nothing to blame your effort on, it will still be an awesome effort.
What you need to do is look at what you have achieved already. You are 13 stone lighter, looking far younger, a figure of health and feeling alive. Your run pace has increased dramatically, you have completed a Duathlon in blustery conditions and covered 100's of miles in training over hills you never thought you see the crest of.
Clare has put up with you being a "Run-Bore" for months and leaving her night upon night to fend for herself whilst you are out for hours on end. Yet, Clare is there by your side, with real pride in her heart knowing what this means to you but also what it means to her. Knowing that Clare will be cheering you on for every single step, every mile, every moment you are out there, until the final second you cross the finish line should be the only motivation you need.
It will hurt, you will be in pain, but you will also be impressed with yourself, you may even shed a little tear. Be proud, be inspired, be you!
Time to calm down now, and get some rest. Remember, it is only 13.1 miles. A couple of 10k runs which you know you can do and then a winner's finish. When you cross the line look to the sky and smile, raise your weary arms, and cheer. Be proud of yourself, I know you set yourself a goal time, but this is your first half marathon, it is a PB anyway no matter of how long it took you. I know you won't forget your first half marathon and will be looking forward to a break, but running is in your blood now and you know you enjoy it despite how you feel.
Take in the Blackpool air, give Clare a massive kiss, congratulate others who are going through the pain and self pride you feel. You can even treat yourself to some classic Fish and Chips!
#BeInspired, #BlackpoolMarathon
From Pondo
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