Today marks the start of the virtual marathon I joined in support for the Earth Hour this year. For the past months, I've been training to run for a half-marathon, but more so to just love running again. I stopped for a year and I just want to enjoy it before I get to the real prep for the half-marathon (hopefully, this September). I've been following a group who have the same interest in running, Pinoy Fitness. Just a few days ago, I came across an article about one of their organized running events. It was very timely because I wanted to commit to something that matches my current capacity and something that goes beyond me, contradicting isn't it? But here it is...WWF Earth Hour Virtual Marathon 2023, since it's a virtual marathon, I can run from anywhere and anytime within the set period (March 25 - April 30).
Pushing my boundaries
I was excited to be a part of it. One of the good things about this is that all the proceeds will be used in support to WWF-Philippines’ conservation efforts. Crazily, I signed up for the 60KM category, which is the highest offered. When I started last January, I can only run a maximum of 25KM in a month. I am with high hopes that knowing that this is for a good cause will motivate me to double my current stats. Every kilometer will be worth it!
Here comes the weekend, I wake up early in the morning to get started. My goal is to reach my mileage in three weeks, I planned my first run on the same date of the Earth Hour to be a 10KM run. I was able to do a 10KM run two weeks ago and somehow I felt confident that I can do it. If I run slow, manage my breathing well, and maintain a good form, I'll be able to run far. This is what I always tell myself, especially when I'm about to give up and no one is there to cheer me up. That 's why I am extremely amazed with marathoners, they would just most likely hear cheers of encouragements on the starting and finishing line. In the in between, it's just them fueling their hearts with their own motivations.
After reaching my goal for this morning run, my usual route going home looks so different. I've never noticed before because I would only walk on this street when it's already dark past my late afternoon run. It was weird to see a blooming tree and another one with leaves changing color. In that same street, it felt like spring met fall, when in reality, the summer season is about to begin. At that time, I realized how beautiful my university is. I have been here for more than five years already, as a student and as a researcher. Even though it's seated within a city, this patch of lush from trees and other plants, makes it a beautiful and peaceful recreational spot. As much as I wanted to enjoy more of this scenery, I had to hurry because I had to attend my 9AM class.
As I think about how I spent my Saturday, I am beyond grateful of these simple experiences that bring so much life to my ordinary days. May it be a long run, a slow walk back home, or a 2hr seating and listening in my lecture class, things were just plain and good. Just like that, I got a picture of what kind of normal weekends I want to have.