Run to the winter season!

Rachel Lilley

As a snowboarder I’d say I am pretty fit, but as the season has ended and in my attempt to keep fit whilst doing something worthwhile, I decided to enter the Bupa Great Manchester 10k (6.2m) Run on Sunday May 20th. I chose to raise money for the Alzheimers Society in memory of my grandfather.

As a race newbie the whole experience was pretty overwhelming! My family left me to find my place in the line up and went off for a full English breakfast – hmpf! As I elbowed my way through a sea of hi-vis and spandex to join my start group, the nerves were starting to creep in – what if I need to stop, what if I can’t do it and most importantly, what if I need a wee?! No time to sweat over it too much as I was jostled across the start line by a mass of determined runners.

“Well, this isn’t so bad,” I thought to myself, “I’m keeping up, people are cheering – actually this is pretty sweet!” As I ran past the iconic Manchester United football stadium I started to get into my stride, despite having to avoid a deluge of water bottles; hmm, no one said this was an obstacle course!

5k – half way and I was still feeling pretty good, no stops yet and I supposed it would have been rude to give in! 6k, and the Alzheimer’s Society officials started cheering me on. I remember thinking where one earth is 7k, the legs were getting pretty achy. 8k, 9k, then 800m to go, 400m….. I saw the line, and believe me it was a welcome sight. The road was lined with people cheering but all I could see was the finish! I crossed the line at 52:04, a pretty respectable time for a novice I think!

All in all it was a great experience. I raised money for a charity close to my heart and the sense of achievement was immense! I loved competition (my snowboarding buddies will vouch for that) and the vibe was amazing too.  Having spectators willing me on from the sidelines and people I didn’t know congratulating me I was stoked!

If you’re looking for a summer activity I’d definitely sign up for a run; it was great to have a goal and something to work towards. I’ll be fighting fit for next season not to mention growing my medal collection that currently totals…well, one!

For more info check out the Great Run website here for runs in the UK or for runs around the globe check out Runner’s World here!

Posted by Rachel Lilley on 05/24/12