Combination Of Factors.

Combination of factors. I won a bib for running Paris Marathon. From all the contests I took part, this is the one I actually won. 3 weeks left ahead. The last time I did an endurance race was in high school. 8 years ago, indeed. Absurd. Despite people being astonished by my pure madness, I found some male friends to run with (thanks mates). Despite the challenge scale, I couldn't run away. I could'nt think further than April 6. The said date. I had a new and only one goal : running. In three weeks I only ran four times.Foot injury occurred two weeks before. Disappointment. Pain. Doubt. 

I couldn't cover 42,195kms, but my mileage went beyond my forecast and my doctor's. I ran 22kms.  When I was seen walking, runners who caught me up, cheered on me. A smile is exchanged. I start to run out of courtesy. At a turtle pace, my favourite pace. Being at the rear of the pack and yet receiving support from volunteers and onlookers. Applauds, encouragement words while looking into my eyes. Trying to smile back, but my eyes become blurred. I looked away. A smile tinged with pain and tiredness. An overwhelming feeling.

I collected blisters, a black toenail and two days of stifness. The first day was the worst one, sharp ache on the knees like dagger bones tearing apart my skin. But I have no regrets. I feel light. 

64645 was my bib number.

/courtesy of my dad for the picture of me/

06.04.2014