Condura Skyway Marathon 2013

 Running the skyway is definitely neither a fun run nor a walk in the park. Although it offers a safe and friendly ground for newbies, it challenged me to conceive visual stimuli and lure muse from within. In this race, I may have not lost my sense of direction but I definitely ran the risk of losing my mind. In the end, the skyway somehow conjured up my heart and soul as a pristine runner.

PRE RACE JITTERS

As early as ten days before the race, I felt restless and jittery as I know I was about to push myself physically and mentally to the limits of endurance.  One day before the race- I preoccupied myself by malling, hydrating and trying so hard to get some sleep although it was not something I normally do in broad daylight. Twelve hours before- mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety leached in. At six hours before guntime, thoughts of backing out constantly lingered in my mind.

TRAVERSING THREE CITIES: Muntinlupa, Paranaque and Makati

The presence of familiar faces amidst thousands and the spectacular fireworks eventually lit up my energy at the gun start. At midnight when all others were in deep slumber, I started my usual reduced pace as I commenced the tail of my marathon.  I diligently sipped water, ate bananas, douched my nape and torsos and gulped gels as I crossed each station. All throughout the course, it was just me and my ipod (filled with perky music) for most of the part. However, I did not miss the stench and the smoke along some route. I deliberately comforted myself by reading and deciphering any graffiti or written texts I came across. In particular, I do remember “ Your Sole is Mine…”

After running consistently for more than 4 hours, I thought I have survived the most horrendous part of the race. At KM 37, I was so tempted to take extended walking breaks just as everyone else did. The skyway was no longer packed, runners were getting thinner and thinner, and the sound of siren and sight of puking runners were in every corner. I was working on keeping myself mentally stable and physically strong as I dashed off to finish.

The last three kilometers from the finish line was indeed the toughest part. I was finally conscious of fatigue setting in, my depleted glycogen, the burning sensation and the rarified feeling of quitting.  As I was on the verge of hitting the wall, my legs were somehow ignited when I caught a glimpse of a familiar female trail runner who was fast approaching. I was able to keep up with her but she eventually outran me at the last 500 meter stretch of the route. Upon crossing the finish line, I felt like I was entering the gates of heaven, where my reward eagerly awaited me with the angels gleefully cheering aside…     

POST RACE NOSTALGIA

After my medal was downed, I feigned leg cramps just so I could sit with the medics and wait for my buddies. I sensed the sweet smell of victory arousing everywhere. Runners sprawled all over the grasslands like lifeless dolls. Pictures were taken here and there as I headed to the nearest portalet.

I admit that my training is woefully inadequate but if there is one thing I have gained from this race, it is to stay FOCUSED. There is simply no room for downbeat thoughts.  This is yet another feat conquered. Finishing a 42K is a tiny stride to life’s real marathon…where each day is a struggle to attaining perfection.

*I am indebted to the champions, Sir Philip and Ms. Cleo, for their ultimate running tips; and to my buddies, Cris and Lay, for their vivacious company - till next adventure…    

CONDURA SKYWAY MARATHON- Run for the Mangroves

Filinvest Alabang, Manila 

03.February.2013

Rewarding treat for a visionary runner's first marathon...

Kalyani is currently brewing on her next marathon.