After seeing Charlie's (The Runner Beans) blog post recently on her top 5 running moments, I thought I'd share mine!
Over the last 3 years I've had some amazing experiences through running, and it was quite hard to narrow it down to just 5...
1. My very first 20minute run
I started out running 3 years ago following the Couch to 5k app. My first 20minute run without stopping was around Whitlingham Broad in Norwich, and I still remember how amazed and excited I was that I had managed it!
2. Crossing the line at my first half marathon
The Windsor Trail Half Marathon was scenic and a fun race with my brothers. We chatted the whole way round and crossed the finish line with our arms in the air! Although neither of them continued running and I doubt we'll do any races together again, it's still something I'm proud to have shared with them.
3. Spitfire Scramble with Team Naturally Run
I've loved being part of Leah's Team Naturally Run- finding a group of like-minded runners and fitness enthusiasts has really made a difference to my running, and introduced me to routes, races and challenges I never would have signed up to otherwise. Putting my name down to be one of the team to race the Spitfire Scramble, a 24-hour trail race, really pushed me out of my comfort zone but it was an incredible experience - I loved running in the dark with my head torch, chilling by our tents chatting run stuff, and drinking champagne out of our trophies on the train ride home!
4. Brighton Half Marathon PB
Brighton Half Marathon was the first race I've ever done where I really set myself a time goal, and properly trained for it. Running the whole way, soaking up the sunshine, listening to the waves and crossing the line well under my 2:30 time goal felt incredible! It made me realise that if you want to achieve something you have to push yourself, but that it's not impossible, and I can do more than I give myself credit for sometimes. My next target is to improve my 10k time, but I'm in no rush and am enjoying running for fun at the moment!
5. Geneva Race Weekend
One of my running goals is to do more racing abroad! The Geneva Race weekend with the Team Naturally Run ladies was an awesome few days of running, eating, and sightseeing - the perfect combination. Geneva is a lovely city, and really easy to explore on foot. The La Genevoise 5k and Team Relay Marathon were a great way to see more of the area, and loads of fun!
I could list so many more awesome running moments! There have been many which don't revolve around races of course; my first 10mile long run, running past Big Ben and Tower Bridge on a London training run, then exploring the muddy hilly trails of Ashurst and most recently, crossing the finish line with my best friend as she completed her first half marathon.
What are your top 5 running moments?
Beki x