Like in the previous run, I had a light breakfast composed of a glass of milk, banana, and pandesal with peanut butter filling. I skipped bringing water for I was sure there would be hydrating stations.
When I got to Plaza Lucero, there were already few runners stretching, while others were jogging around the area. In an instant, I felt the excitement within started to build up. I joined few ladies in stretching and tried to start small talks. I was alone again today but was more confident and excited to make new friends. I roam around the area and saw familiar faces. Those were the same faces I saw during Kapitan Pepe Fun Run. I smiled and greeted them and they also did the same. I also saw fellow employees from the university where I work and managed to have our photos taken before the race started.
When the first starting gun fired (for 10k runners), I lined up along with the other runners who seem excited and eager as I am. We waited for about 10 minutes before the second starting gun fired. As soon as I heard it, I ran. I ran like a child. I ran with so much happiness and excitement. Winning the race was not even in my mind. After all only residents of Cabanatuan were qualified to win. I run until I caught myself smiling at everything I see. Some authors called it runner’s high where there was a rush happy hormones that could last for hours.
However, I regretted the idea of not keeping track of my running time though. Not again! But since I was too happy to be disheartened, I brushed it off but reminding myself to just take note of it in my next run. After all, I was only after the fun part of it.
