I’m training for my first marathon, the Virgin London Marathon on 24 April. My training plan advised that I do a half marathon race before the full monty, to get used to the race atmosphere and get an idea on running pace and finishing time. Vitality Reading Half was on the 3 April 2016, so it was perfect timing.
On arrival in Reading we were shuttled to the race village and there was plenty of facilities on hand. The bag drop was clear and queue free! The race start was busy, with over 15,000 runners all primed for the race and buzzing with excitement. The starter gun goes, and we’re off!
The first four miles had great support, with young and old cheering everyone on. Bands played music, there were some great drumming under a flyover bridge, and a pub pumped out dance tunes, which really gave me an extra boost. Small children were giving high fives and handing out Jelly Babies, and even a pub was giving runners small samples of ale! Although tempted I didn’t partake in the ale as there was a steady hill around mile 10 that I had to run up.
At times during the race it was really heart warming when people had banners reading ‘Keep going! you can do it! You are amazing'; I felt humbled and connected with other runners and the crowd.
The end of the race was downhill, which was fine by me! The sun began to shine and there was a feeling of nearly being there. The last three miles I felt tired so the crowd support really spurred me on, and with the fantastic stadium finish I managed to do a sprint finish, which was out of pure relief and joy, it really was a brilliant moment.
I had done it, in a time of 2.06.43, which I was very happy with. Next stop, London!!!
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