The recently concluded Power Run proved to be powerful not only because I finished 16k (which was technically more or less 18k) but also because of the lessons I learned from it. These lessons are essential and can be used in my next races. Here they are:
Start slow, end strong. Some runners tend to sprint off after the gun start. It is a no-no especially in long distance running. The last thing a runner should do is to use up all her energy in the first half of the race. When a runner starts slow, she still has more energy until she reaches the finish line. Wouldn’t it be sweeter to join and mix with the crowd after the race than collapse due to fatigue? Keep an eye to runners ahead of you. In running, it doesn't matter whether you come in first, in the middle of the pack, or last. What matters most is you finish the race. Thus, if you are among the last of the pack, be mindful of the runners ahead of you. It is fun to run but it is not so fun to get lost.
Bring a race map (if available). Most races have available race maps. It is essential that you bring it with you especially if you are not familiar of the route. Although there are marshalls along the way it still helps to have guide. You can check it from time to time ensuring that you are on the right route. Again, it is fun to run but it is not so fun to get lost.
Ask questions. It’s never a crime to ask questions. When you seem lost and you do not know which way to go, ask questions. For sure, there are marshalls along the way. They’d be able to help you with your inquiries.
Entertain only positive thoughts. Running requires not only physical strength but also mental strength. Once a runner entertains negative thoughts she is in danger of losing her strength. It’s okay to vent out. But once you let it out, go back to the positive thoughts. Remember what Peter Pan has to say about positive thoughts? Positive thoughts make one fly. So, entertain only happy thoughts and you will soon forget about the pain and difficulty brought by running.
Hydrate. Hydrating stations are positioned strategically along the route. Make sure that you hydrate enough. You can splash the water on your face and arms as well, but be careful not to wet your shoes. It may become heavy once wet. It is also necessary to bring a bottle of water or use hydrating belt because you never know where the next hydrating station is. The last thing a runner wants to happen to get dehydrated while running. It can become fatale.
Motivate your fellow runners. Some people join races to have fun. While others join to compete. Whatever your reason for joining, it helps to motivate fellow runners. “Kaya mo yan!” “Kaunti na lang.” “Isang tambling na lang finish line na.” Those remarks may seem short but can mean a lot. It does not only make fellow runners smile but it also channels positive energy.
Look after your fellow runners. Let’s admit it. A race is a race. Who doesn’t want to win in race? But one thing a runner should remember is take accountability of her fellow runners. If there are runners behind you, always look back and make sure they’re okay. Always be willing to help when crisis arises. At the end of the day, your rank wouldn’t matter but the number of friends you’ve earned would speak a lot of what kind of runner you are.
Have fun. Fun Run is definitely a fun filled activity. You get meet people from all walks of life. You get to see places you haven’t seen before. You get to experience endorphin rush. Enjoy it. Cherish every moment of it.
Thank the organizers. Finally, a race would have not materialized without the brave and strong souls behind it. All the pains and hardships they endured while planning and carrying out the activity would mean nothing when they see that everyone enjoyed the event. Hence, it doesn't hurt to thank the them and show how grateful we are to them.
