Standard Chartered Marathon..

Simply put,it changed my outlook on life.The run almost took all of my strength,but i survived.

I woke up at 3,prepared and got a lift from my friend's car.We reached the padang at around 545.Little did i know or anticipate the adventure i was going to have.

Flag off!It started off well for me,i paced myself and before i knew it,i was at the 10 km mark without even breaking a sweat.Instead i enjoyed the atmostphere and took in the sights.However,things went for the worse when i injured my right foot at the 17 km mark.I could barely walk.I tried soldering on,but the pain was unbearable.The medic came to me,and told me straight up 'i dont think you should continue with the race.You damaged and twisted your nerve.Ive contacted the ambulance to pick you up and send you to the finishing line'.I asked her what time it already was,and she said 8am.Then i made up my mind,i was going to finish the race,pain or no pain.I told her i was going to finish the race,and her look betrayed her.She was shocked.She tried to convince me a couple more times to not race,but i wouldnt hear any of it.I remembered what the emcee said beforehand,they will wait till the last marathoner finishes,no matter what his time is.I told the medic to patch me up,to wrap a bandage around me,and i limped off,walking slowly.The first few steps were very painful,but i dont know how to quit,thats what i am.I took my time,and the most heartwarming thing was that,like ain said,other marathoners knew and shared my pain,so some came up to me and gave me pats on the back,the thumbs up and gave me encouraging words.

By the time i reached east coast,it was 9 am.I knew i couldnt walk all the way.There was no honour in walking when this is a running competition.I attempted to run 3 times but each time the pain was unbearable.But the 4th attempt was successful,and i slowly joged in a limping position all through east coast and back.I had to stop when the pain got too much,but i continued to run till the finishing line,with a time of 5 hours and 56 mins.That was the most exhilirating and most arduous and painful experience in my entire life.I sprinted at the last 100 metres,ignoring the pain.I was just thankful to God.Everytime i was in pain,i asked for strength from Him.

Its challenges like these that really sets the quitters and the determined apart.Getting the finisher's tee wasnt on my mind at all,but i constantly told myself,if i could finish this even injuries,i can conquer anything.It really opened my eyes to what i actually am and made of.Im proud of myself for not quiting.I took alot out of me but i persisted.Some say im hardheaded,that i stubborn.Even the medic said that.But i'd like to think of myself as having the no quit attitude.When the going gets tough,the tough get going.

You know its a big challenge when even the elite commandos have difficulty finishing the race.This challange really taught me more about myself,and i look forward to joining the marathon again next year.

I have to thank ain for giving me her undying support and encouragement.Everytime i was in pain,i thought about her,her words,her face,everything.She took her time to meet me after the race to congratulate me and when she said i was setting a good example for her,it really lifted my spirits,im actually doing something good not only for myself but for people around me that love me and support me,including my family.Nothing can beat the feeling of euphoria when you see your girlfriend after a hard race.She took my hand and aided me to walk.It must have been a funny sight! hahaha

One downside though,is that my injury will keep me out for at least a week.The doc gave me 2 days m.c but i know my body well,it recovers very fast.

I recommend anyone willing to test themselves to take up the challenge next year.See what you are made off.You'll be surprised to know how much stronger you are than you think.See what it feels like,the pain,the suffering,the muscles aching so bad you want to lay at the road,the adrenalin you feel when you see the finish line.Try it.You'll love it.I did

Thanks baby! Next year,we join together as a couple ok? ;)