Singapore Marathon

I was in Singapore with NSAB for my 1st marathon run. Excited, nervous...its all there, you name it. Got all the runner's package, number and stuff on Friday and went shopping a little. On Saturday, we met up with RitchieR and his family who is also running together with his MBF. Did carbo loading with NSAB 2 nites in a row and i think i am all set to run already.

On Sunday at 4 am, after making an arrangement with NSAB earlier, i headed to Espalande Bridge, did some stretching and at 5.15 am we were all ready for the run. We were flagged of at 5.30 am with over 40,000 participant in total. I was very impressed with the orgainizing committee, making this possible for couple of years already with all the necessary essentials being provided for the runners convenient, i.e water pit stop at every 1.5 KM, banana, power gel, deep heating rub, supporters and volunteers were everywhere cheering the runners and not forgetting mobile toilets. Well, many runners including me peed at some bushes or nice looking wall. Can't wait for the queue! With all the preparation professionally organized, I was glad that it is my 1st marathon and it makes it easy for 1st timer like me.

I thought i did quite OK for the 1st 34KM where i didn't stop running. Ipod, power gel helps. Saw ChanC when i was at 24KM whilst he just completed 29KM on the other side of the road! 5KM ahead of me. Yikes! I slowed down and practically walked at 34KM and jog a bit as well till 37KM. That stretch pulled me down and took some time for me to recover before i started running again at 37KM.

When i was closer to 39KM i tried to push myself again running faster and when i reached to 40KM check point, i was so happy knowing i am and will be able to complete this run. Never would i have ever imagined i would be able to run a marathon, let alone, completing it. Supporters, other runners were all there cheering for all runners and it felt really good. When i was at the finishing line, NSAB was there, cheering me and it felt really good to finally complete the 42.195 run. My unofficial time was at 5.15hrs and ChanC at 4.18hrs.

I thank NSAB for just being there and supporting me as it meant a lot to me. Without you, it will be more challenging and knowing you will be there at the finishing line pushed me to run. Thanks to other friends, well wishers and all the supporters for cheering and supporting me and all the runners. They went en route to encourage the runners. This run will be something that i will always remember for the rest of my life.

Below is the result if u are interested to know:-

1 2.14.23 ELIJAH MBOGO KENYA
2 2.14.25 AMOS TIROP MATUI KENYA
3 2.14.43 DAVID CHERUIYOT KENYA
4 2.16.43 FRANCIS KIPROP ETHIOPIA
5 2.16.59 MICHAEL KIMANI KENYA

I was told that they are representing their country for Olympics in Bejing next year.