After completing my first 20K run, I found myself contemplating an even bigger challenge: a half marathon. One of my friends had recently finished a half marathon with minimal training runs, despite dealing with a leg issue and limping across the finish line at almost a fast walking speed. His determination and ability to finish spurred me to book my first half marathon.

The Decision

My friend suggested a half marathon near Reigate and Redhill. Without knowing the route or the terrain, I signed up, trusting that running alongside my experienced friend would be an advantage. We prepared well, staying at my friend’s house the night before the race for an early start. That morning, the air was crisp, and I soon realized this wasn’t just any race—it was a trail race, a detail that would become painfully clear during the run.

The Race Begins

The race started on a nice, flat path high up in the hills, offering beautiful views as we passed the first few kilometers. But as we descended along single chalk tracks, the terrain turned challenging. With many runners around, it felt like one wrong move could easily twist an ankle.

The Halfway Point

The race was an out-and-back course, and I knew the second half would be an uphill battle. Having done no hill training, the return journey felt daunting. By the halfway point, my cheap sports socks from Sports Direct were causing issues—I felt a blister forming from the sweat. I had to stop to rinse the sweat out of my socks, and although it felt better, the sense of isolation grew as the runners I had passed were nowhere to be seen.

The Big Hill

As I approached the uphill sections, the real struggle began. One particularly long hill loomed ahead, and despite my best efforts to keep my head down, I made the mistake of looking up about a third of the way up. Instantly, my mind began playing games with me. The hill seemed to stretch endlessly into the sky, and the challenge felt insurmountable. It was a stark reminder of how much of running is mental, and I had to fight to keep my focus on each step rather than the daunting climb ahead.

The Lonely Struggle

Navigating back wasn’t straightforward, and the unclear markings made it feel like I was running alone. Thankfully, I had set the course on my watch, which guided me back. As I continued the uphill battle, I realized the key was to keep my head down, focus on the ground directly in front of me, and take it one step at a time. Before long, I found myself near the top, though my legs were screaming for relief.

The Final Push

With 5K left, the finish line felt both so close and so far. My energy levels were dropping, and my legs felt heavy. The rugged trail had taken its toll, and I feared my legs would cramp up. Despite being overtaken by a runner I had passed earlier, I pressed on, finding relief as the lush green grass of the start line came into view.

Crossing the Finish Line

Crossing the finish line brought immense relief. The race had been much harder than I expected, and I realized it might not have been the easiest half marathon to start with. My friend, who had suggested the race, was running the full marathon and was my hero for attempting such a grueling course.

Reflections and Future Goals

When I booked the half marathon, I also signed up for the full marathon in Brighton, believing the relatively flat course would be manageable. But after struggling through the half marathon, I couldn’t help but doubt my ability to complete a full marathon. How could I achieve that if I barely finished the half?

Finding Strength in the Journey

Despite the doubts, I remembered why I started this journey—to push my limits and prove to myself that I could achieve great things. Every challenge, no matter how tough, is a step toward becoming a better version of myself. And really, that’s the only thing you can strive for.

Have you ever faced such a daunting challenge and pushed through, despite your doubts? Let’s share our stories and inspire each other to reach new heights. Remember, every step, no matter how small, is progress. Here’s to pushing boundaries and discovering our true potential!