One of our Ballymena Today Youth team recently took on a 5K run. Why? Where? How? Read more below;
After training, my Dad and I entered a 3 mile fun run at Portglenone. I didn’t know what to expect because it was my first time running in a fun run. I loved going out running with my Dad – even though he could barely keep up! When it came to the big day, we registered and got our numbers. I was very excited at the start of the race.
Photo Credit: Timothy Takemoto; Creative Commons
There were about 500 people and quite a few junior runners, from what I could see, which was great because there isn’t a lot of places where teenagers and children can go to run together as a family, as part of the community. We all made our way down to the start. I saw my mum and sister there waiting to encourage us. Then the whistle blew and we were off. My Dad and I kept a steady pace, not going too fast at the start, but just speeding up gradually, which meant we could overtake people who were getting tired. Even when I felt tired, I didn’t give up. I didn’t want to give up, that would be disappointing for me.
It was such a different experience and it was so encouraging having others running beside you and at the side of the road cheering you on, “Only 200 yards left – you can do it!” or “Come on, beat your Dad!” At the end I had a rush of adrenaline and ran as fast as I ever had before – it was amazing at the end, when I looked at my time, and realised it was a new personal best!