The Beginning

I recently took part as part of a Relay Team No. 2851 in running the last 5 miles of the Belfast City Marathon 2007. I did not train before the event as I planned to walk the whole 5 miles (I was used to walking 2-3 miles a few times a week), however when it came to the big day I was encouraged and inspired by the enthusiasm and the air of excitement of my team (which included my two sisters Angela and Nichola and my mummy Marie) and from observing all the runners who had already ran 21 miles straight that I decided I would give it my best attempt to run as far as I could manage.

Setting off from Corporation Square I began with a steady pace and managed 1 mile before I realised that if I was to complete the 5 miles at all I would need to slow down my speed. I got my breathing under control and the only other obstacle I had was sheer boredom. All I could think about was the constant pounding of my trainers on the concrete and estimations of much further I had go. Much to my dismay, after guessing I had ran approx. 3.5 miles I was told I had only done 2. I decided then that I needed to occupy my mind and think of something that would distract me from running or encourage me to push myself.

I thought of music, food, what my plans for the weekend were but none seemed to work. Then out of nowhere I thought of Meabh, my boyfriend's little cousin who has cerebral palsy and has serious restrictions on her mobility. I realised that Meabh would probably give anything to have the option to run a marathon and that me moaning inwardly about being tired and worn out was pathetic and ungrateful. I had this amazing opportunity to go out and do something amazing and instead of being thankful I was being petulent. I pushed myself to work harder than I ever had before and finished the 5 miles (through torrential rain might I add) only stopping on 2 occasions. When I crossed the finish line I felt a buzz, a rush of excitement and when I saw my mum and elder sister standing at the finish cheering me on I felt I had also proven something. I don't think they ever expected me to run the whole 5 miles and they were proud of me.

I spent the next 2 hours shivering in my soaked marathon t-shirt thinking of how I could incorporate running more into my life (its true that running becomes addictive) and trying to figure out how long I would have to train before the next marathon. My mum, sisters and I decided that in 2008 we would all try for the half-marathon and raise money for charity. I started running on a regular basis just 4 weeks ago in preparation for next year's marathon but I felt myself struggling reaching my targets. With no company on my runs and no crowd cheering me on I found it difficult to stay focussed and motivated and again it was thoughts of Meabh that spurred me on and reminded me that I could do this.

After a particularly long and tiring training session I sat down to re-evaluate my reasons for completing the half-marathon and although the charity my mum and sisters had suggested was very worthy, it just didn't inspire or motivate me enough to want to train 3 times a week. I came to the realisation that it was Meabh who motivated me and this was my opportunity to repay her by raising money to help her and her family. I got so excited that I had finally found something worthwhile and rewarding I could work towards that I decided to attempt to run the whole marathon.

All 26.2 miles of it.

The thought is daunting and it won't be an easy task but I am determined to do this. I will be keeping a regular blog of my progress, tracking my improvements and inevitably my set-backs. I would appreciate any hints, tips, suggestions....anything.

I would also ask that if you want to, please make a donation to my cause. Details of this will follow shortly.

Finally a short message to Meabh: We will run this marathon together. I'll be your legs and you will be my inspiration.

Thank you

Michelle
(not very fit and incredibly scared)