The second hurdle was the taxi journey from Victoria airport to registration. 30-40 minute journey became a 90minute torture, with our beloved driver talking for England. Drove us potty and we eagerly disembarked, somewhat jaded. Registration was lacklustre, with merchandise being pushed more than the race, its history, the athletes commitment to their arrival at the start line, the course etc. A sad reflection on where we have come.
The third hurdle was finding our sleeping quarters for the weekend. However, we need not have worried for the only obstacle was a grumpy bus driver. The directions we had been given and the residents who helped us en route were superb. The flat we had taken over was perfect - thanks Sarah!
The weather on the Sunday was supposed to be bad for the race, too, but as the stars shone on 6000 runners for the start of the Victoria half marathon, it was obvious that there was no storm. There were to be no delays. Everyone should finish on time, legs 'n lungs permitting. The main announcement was that the police were happy, as they had been observing the 5000 + crowd that morning: no drunks, no violence, no vandalism, no riots. All was set for Natasha's journey of 21.1 km.
My 42.2km journey started 85 minutes later, joined by 2000 others. By this time the sun was poking out from behind the clouds. Ideal conditions. Why is it that (mainly men) runners have to tell their stories at volume 9? Why is it that (mainly men) runners decide that the race is the place to tell the world how good they are? The miriad of electronics and equipment had to be seen to be believed, enough to start a revolution for sure. Perhaps folks should concentrate on their running as opposed to the flag they were flying? They'd sure go a bit faster.
Fortunately, the two guys who obviously should be in London 2012 faded after 25km, and the faithful few in my group concentrated on getting home. It was hard. 30km onwards, my time slowed and there was nothing I could seemingly do about it. I finished slightly disappointed in 3.33.54, having set out to break the 3.30 barrier. Why that time? No reason other than the belief I can. However, I had run the best race I could. The course record was broken by both male and female athletes. Record numbers, fantastic weather, and the MC Steve King is king indeed. He knows more about the runners than the runners themselves. Natasha met me at 38km which was fantastic, she herself having run a superb 1.44 for her half marathon. We both lazed on the grass, outside the Legislature buildings (for Victoria is the capital city of BC) soaking up the atmosphere, relieved our personal journeys were over.
Monday morning was spent with good friends, catching up, attempting jokes, eating a hearty breakfast. But time cut us rudely short, and we were driven out to the airport by our personal taxi. This time, perfect.
Its been a tough 16 weeks, pounding the pavements, more often than not alone. For me, I've been training really since January. No more marathons for me, but perhaps I might persuade a bunch of us to run one in 2016 (my 50th year). However, I love running. I love feeling fit. I love eating what I want, when I want. I love the freedom and simplicity it brings. So I wont stop, not till I have to. I look forward to planning a few shorter races next year.
And this might well be my last blog, but as many know - never say never! So, is it adieu or aurevoir?
Tim
