We did it!!!

I am so proud to be saying: 'we did it and it feels great!'. It is not something one does on a daily basis, but my word, what an amazing feeling!!!

Runner number: 42965

Finish time: 04:45:31

Place Overall: 20147

Place Gender: 5368

Place Category: 3309

I remained focused throughout the run, however, there were moments when I couldn't help but feel sad: reading the messages / dedications on the runners' vests; seeing the man on the other side of the road running on springs, as his legs had been amputated; feeling the generousity of the public; hearing the crowds cheer us on; simply being part of the action.

The run was much better than I had imagined, though it certainly was not 'easy'! You soon realise it has a lot to do with concentration and determination to finish the 26.2 miles. It was a welcome sign when I saw the Tate Modern as we appeared from the tunnel. I knew we were not far away from Westminster and the finishing line. It did seem never ending at the final stretch as there were signs indicating: 800 meters to go / 400 meters to go, etc, and that is when I felt like walking! It was down to my persistence that I continued running to the finishing line - what a feeling!! I only started to feel the pain in the legs when I finally stopped, and then I had to step up for the lady to cut of my tracking time tag on my shoe lace - it was almost impossible!

I am feeling very old together as my leg muscles are asking what I have done to them! I know with a lot of rest and continued healthy eating I will be back to normal soon. For now, there will be no cycling for at least a week, so bus pass (very expensive!!) here I come.

Thanks again to you all for your kind support along this incredible journey. Fundraising was the hardest challenge as I am not one for asking when it comes to money, but we all made it happen! The amount raised so far is: £1,520.87p! That is fantastic as Mental Health Foundation is not a large charity so every donation means a lot to them. It was a pleasure meeting the charity members at their after-marathon event.

I am feeling slightly sad that this is the last marathon entry :( ....... unless I decide to continue with more in the future ;)

2 days to go and the target is becoming very possible to reach. Currently the amount raised is at £1,432.87! Only £67.13p to raise in order to meet the minimum target of £1,500!!!

Yesterday Sam and I went to the Excel centre to official become marathon runners. It was a nice experience as it did become very commercial as it felt like we had stepped into an Ideal Home exhibition....stands in all corners trying to sell us running gear! It felt good as we were actually part of the running world!

We saw Michel Roux Jr as we were taking photos of ourselves with our race numbers. I guess we will be spotting a few known people along the route.

Almost there.....

3 days to go before the big day and for me to see if my training really was good enough to make it across the finishing line after 26.2 miles (42km) of running!

Today Sam and I will be heading down to the Excel centre as it is registration day. We will officially be official marathon runners ;)

The marathon vest has been printed with Joy Everley's (work) logo as they are my sponsors. It looks good and I feel like a pro!

Here's my check list for this Sunday:

Trainers (in good condition and semi-clean)
Ultrasport vest (my half marathon top should give me good vibes)
Marathon vest (definately!)
Socks (clean, comfy ones)
Small waist bag (need to store the energy bars..not using gels are very sticky)
Energy snacks (essential)
Running number (cannot run without it)
Map (in case I forget where the start line is!)
Change of clothes and towel (nice warm shower after the run)
Mobile & money (to meet family and friends and to enjoy a good plate of hot food after the run)...
...and that's all I can think of at the moment.

I am still coming to terms with the fact I have been preparing for this day during the last 6 months! I still remember the day (almost a year to this day) when Sam texted me to say it was time to register for the marathon ballot - I was cycling to work through Hyde Park. How time has flown; how much fun I have had in the process; and how I have changed with the whole experience. I would say I have mutured in my thoughts (yes, even more!) and learnt a lot about people and their kindness when it is needed.

It is hard to describe the experience as it is very personal and it certainly is what you make of it as an individual. one thing for sure, I will come out of this experience with a positive attitude and an awareness of the importance of a health mind, and a supportive network in order to overcome any form of issue which may arise in our lives.

Thank you to all my sponsors! There are a few names I am not familiar with and I would like to thnak them too for their donations. We have currently raised £1,327.87! There is still just over £170 to be raised, however, it is an impressive amount for a first timer :)

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KimWong

Dedicated to my best mate

The meaning behind our motivation to run the London Marathon is even more important as my best mate's dad has recently passed away. Training is still happening, however the thoughts and feelings are harder to control.

Each run follows with the recognisition of how lucky we are to be who we are; to be able to do the things we want to do without much limitation; to love those close to us without boundaries; and to be happy. These are things we often take for granted.

I dedicate my London Marathon challenge to my mum, my best friend's dad and to all those who have experienced / are experiencing mental health issues.

Thank you to all those behind us on this adventure!

Much love.

Please go to the following link if you wish to sponsor: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KimWong

Back to familiar roads

It was not easy getting out of bed - I think I am still catching up the sleep I had lost during my 24hr journey back to London - but I did it as I had been motivated to go for a long run ever since yesterday during my cycle to work. It would seem everyone is preparing for the marathon which is only 3 weeks away!!

Today I have completed my longest run to date: 3 hours covering a distance of approx. 18 miles!

The run was relatively painless, however I did notice a bit of soreness in my right knee after almost 2 hours of running. Towards the end I was feeling slightly bored! A strange thing to say but true! I spoke to Sam and she mentioned the same thing when she had gone for her long run earlier in the week. It is very much a mental thing so I will need to work on that aspect. I suppose on the actual day there will be thousands of other runners and spectators so that should help. I enjoyed not having music as I appreciated my surroundings and was able to focus on my breathing without being distracted. After 6 months of training you begin to understand yourself a lot more and realise what is most suitable when it comes to completing a good run.

My route started in Acton and continued towards the centre through Hyde Park and eventually to our dear Queen's residency and back again. I was starting to feel like Forrest Gump! I just have to do that run all over again plus approx. 1.5hr - 2hrs more of running on the actual day! With each run I am feeling more positive about the event.

As there is only 3 weeks to go, I am asking for as much help as possible with the donations as I am still short of the required minimum sponsorship of £1,500! I am currently on £817 so every pound definately counts at this stage. Just imagine how much the charity, Mental Health Foundation will be able to help with raising awareness to the mental health issue. It can happen to any of us at any time.

Please go to the following link if you wish to sponsor: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KimWong

You may also wish to forward the link onto friends who may be interested to help a great cause.

Thanks!!!

Yesterday was my official first proper run since the half marathon. I tried last week but only managed to do 20mins and then a further 20mins walking as it was the only way to get home! I put it down to my body being tired. I felt good during yesterday's run. As always, the first 30mins is the hardest and then I feel great!

I ran with my new trainers which are be the ones I will be wearing during the London Marathon. Just under 5 weeks to go!!! How time flies! I am starting to miss the town already even though I still have 9 days before I return to London. It has been a great adventure training here as the terrain has been completely different to that of the streets of London, and the weather has been fab. I have also enjoyed the fresh air and the beautiful landscapes on offer in (and around) the town.

The only one from London!

In the overall results for the 20km run on Sunday, I came 72nd out of 129 runners with a time of 2:15:46! In the 'under 34 ladies' group I came 6th out of 12! So, overall, I am very happy with what was achieved over the weekend! Let the training continue!

http://www.ultrasport.com.ar/imagenes/editor/File/2011/Etapa1/R20k.htm

Check out the official Ultrasport photos of the race and pay attention to photo number 101 out of 119..you should spot me and Diego as we crossed the finishing line ;)

http://www.ultrasport.com.ar/index.php?put=novedad-amp&id_novedad=105

After a day of rest and a massage, I am feeling recovered and almost ready to start running again. It is good to stay active and try different activities so yesterday we did a bit of rock trekking (another way to cross rivers!) and hill walking in a lovely place called Villa Alpina (www.villaalpinacordoba.com.ar). This place is ideal for being outdoors with nature. It is especially lovely now as it is low season so you virtually have the place to yourself. We completed the adventure with a bbq along the river and, of course, a siesta! Rest is also part of the training!

I still need to raise £700 in order to reach the minimum sponsorship of £1,500! There are still 45 days remaining before race day on Sunday 17th April. Please help by sponsoring me via my page:

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KimWong

We made it!

I have just celebrated with Diego our completion (my first!) of the Ultrasport 20km run in Punto Claro with a tub of ice cream! We did it in approx. 2hrs 15mins. I was not prepared for several river crossings! It was a surprise but we did it! Diego advised me to take the trainers off (during the first 10km) in order for us not be running with soaked feet. It certainly paid off as I noticed the slower pace of a few runners due to wet trainers! It was a good way to cool down as we were running in midday heat. Thankfully I had a cap on my head so I didn't notice the heat as much.

The route was a mixture of off-road, hills, river crossings and mud! We had to walk during a few sections of the final 10km as the terrain was too slippery to run. It was a welcome rest for me! Breathing was the key to completing the race, as well as the mantra which I had adopted: 'there is no suffering, just pain!!!!!' It worked nicely for me ;)

Diego was my 'camel' as he carried his camelbak which contained the essential water and snacks. This supply kept us going without any complications. I must thank him for his good training skills and support throughout the whole experience.

The last couple of kms were never-ending for me as I knew we were almost there, however, I was unsure as to how far we still had to run. When I could see the finishing line I decided to put in 95% of my energy and pumped my arms (and legs!) to the finishing line. Diego and I finished together which was great. We were welcomed by the sister and her daughters. It was great to see some familiar faces as I knew that was it and I had completed my first 20km race!

I am feeling good as I took some time out after the race to massage my legs in order to release any tension which may have built up. We had a chorizo sandwich and lots of the free energy drinks which were on offer in order to recuperate what we had used up. Tonight will consist of a good dinner and lots of rest! London Marathon here I come!!!!

Punto Claro here we come!!!

We are official running in the half marathon tomorrow as we have just paid $40 (Argentine Dollars, approx. £7) - on top of the initial $90 for the inscription - for our tops and are names are on the list! I am the only 'Wong' which is expected ;) The location is beautiful as it is beside a lake so I hope for a bbq at the end of the 20 km run! I believe there will be over 250 people in our category and a further 250 in the 10 km group.

Last night I went for a run with Diego and we managed approx. 15km in 1.5hr. I hope to complete the race in 2hrs - 2hrs 15mins....lets see!!!

I'll be honest, the other day when I said I was going for a run and then to a spinning class didn't turn out as planned. I only managed to run (in the rain!) with Diego as when we got home we were soaked! I didn't want to get ill for the sake of a spinning class. It was a good run as it was intensive for a period of 30 mins. I feel more confident running with someone as it creates a pace for me which I can follow.

Yesterday we ran for an hour. The route involved a mixture of flats and hills which allowed me to experience up and down hills. Diego has been teaching me the importance of breathing and how to adjust according to whether I am running up hill or down hill. I was impressed with myself as we managed to have enough energy at the end to race each other home! The feeling was great as I could have gone on for longer.

The time is nearing and I am building on my running confidence with each run. This Sunday is the half marathon in Punto Claro (Cordoba, Argentina) so I am currently training for that. I figured if I can complete that with all the hills that I will be encountering; I will be fine for the London Marathon! This Sunday will be fun as I will be running with the boys ;)

Another day of rain but I will run!

Today is another day of rain but I am feeling good and positive enough to run in it followed by a spinning class. I have decided there is no point waiting for the rain to disappear as it is all part of the training. Who knows what the weather will bring on the actual race day!

A friend with whom I have not been in contact for ages has not only just sponsored me with a kind amount; she has also suggested (I am yet to read it) a book by John J. Ratey called Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain. It looks into the importance of exercise and the affects it has on the brain.

Writing this blog has made me appreciate friendship (near and far) and the kindness of people, as well as the significance of a healthy mind. We often think about a healthy diet and lifestyle without also remembering how important a healthy mind is. All elements work together. Without one we would not function to our full capacity. This leads me to the conclusion that exercise plays a major role in our day-to-day life. Since I have been running I have been feeling more energetic and positive. I enjoy each day as it comes rather than worrying about what tomorrow brings or what the past had brought. My suggestion to anyone who may be feeling down is to find an activity which you enjoy and let that influence you. It may take some time to discover but that is part of the fun! Enjoy and be happy as this maintains a healthy mind, which contributes to a healthy way of life.

I've been tweeted!!

I would like to say 'thank you' to Stella from the Mental Health Foundation as she has just tweeted my marathon blog:

http://twitter.com/mhf_tweets

I am hoping this will generate more followers, and essential more sponsors as I still need to raise £750 in order to reach the min. required sponsorship before race day on Sunday 17th April!!

Today started of with lots of sun but now the day is ending with lots of rain! At 5pm I enjoyed a lovely cup of English Breakfast tea with a biscuit whilst sitting outside in the terrace watching the rain pour from the sky. I felt like I was in good old England! Argentina can be very similar at times ;)

Half Marathon Challenge first!

Time is nearing to the London Marathon (Sunday 17th April in case you have forgotten!) so what is better than signing up for a half marathon run a couple of months before?! That is exactly what I will be doing on Sunday 27th February. Ultrasport will be taking place a few miles away from the town so we will not have to travel far. I say 'we' because Diego (and possibly some other friends) will also be running. It is the first stage of a 7-part adventure involving a 20km run around the scenic area of Punto Claro which has a beautiful lake and a few hills! We were there (on our return from a rock festival) on Sunday as we had decided to stop off to enjoy a bbq - 'al disco'.

www.ultrasport.com.ar

Training started again last night with a 8km run (45mins) followed by an hour spinning class. I took a week off as I had noticed some tension in my left achilles tendon so decided to give it a rest. Thankfully, I didn't feel anything last night so I think it is now ok. Sometimes the best cure is rest! I have realised that I run better when I have company as it gives me motivation as well as creating a pace to follow. I am still very excited about the whole adventure as running is a new challenge for me, however, here it is a normal form of activity to run and run and run. I guess it has a lot to do with the surroundings.

Thank you to those who have recently donated money towards my efforts!!! I am now half way there with the sponsorship of £1,500, however, I am still outstanding by approx. £750!!! There is still time! We can do it!!!!

My page: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KimWong

What a great boss!

Following from my request via Facebook for either individual or corporate sponsorship, my great bosses at Joy Everyley Fine Jewellers www.joyeverley.co.uk
have agreed to help with the sponsorship!! The amount is yet to be confirmed but I am hoping it will help me reach the minimum sponsorship as I am still needing 800 pounds! I shall be wearing their logo on the day of the marathon. There is still room if anyone else would like me to run with their logo!!! This offer is open to any individual or business, but the sponsorship needs to be a good one ;)

Nature speaks when it needs to...

I am sitting inside my friend´s shop and enjoying the sound of rain! Sometimes it rains and then the sun comes out, but today it is pouring down with rain! I am remembering the sunny days when we were able to go to the river for lunch. Many people (tourists!) have already commented on how they do not know what to do today as it is raining. My advise to them has been to enjoy the sound of nature and to read.

We sometimes find it hard to re-connect with nature but with running I have somehow found it again. My matra during my runs have been: ´there is no suffering; only pain!´ It seems to have helped during those moments when I think it is not possible to continue running.

Since the last post I have been relatively consistent with the evening runs: an average of 1hr - 1.5hr run followed a slightly shorter run the next day with a 'day off' the next and so on. With each run I am needing a bit less time to get comfortable with the breathing. The strength of the body seems to always kick in between 30 - 60 mins. This is when I feel at my strongest with a burst of energy by the 60th min. I am getting to know my body and the comfort zones.

I must admit, I did feel a difference when I had not trained for 3 days in a row (I used up a few of my running evening for socialising!) and tried to start again yesterday. I have learned my lesson!

I have been meeting many runners in the town. There is one guy who has even completed the Iron Man which consist of 6 days running! He is an architect by day! His advise to me was simply to enjoy the run and to feel free to walk at any stage of the race as the most important thing is to finish. How true!

I have just finished reading a book called 'What I talk about when I talk about running' by Haruki murakami, which was suggested by a friend of mine. It is very inspiring as he talks quite freely about his experience as a runner and it also makes you think in a different perspective about life. I highly recommend this book for anyone as it is interesting not only just from a runner's point of view.

My daily view from La Villa

I ran around the town from one end to almost the other in a route which lasted 1hr 10mins - just over 10km.

I was unprepared for 'low battery' in my mini i-pod, but thankfully, I had amazing views to keep my mind focused on the run.

After an hour of non-stop running I felt a sudden burst of energy so I sprinted for part of the final leg. I spent the rest of the evening relaxing and massaging out the tension in my legs.

The surface is a mixture of flat road and rocky terrain. I hope my trainers will be ok as they are only designed for flats / pavements, i.e. city running!

Today I feel good, however slightly sleepy! It must be the fresh air and the fact I feel proud of my run!

The hills are alive with fresh air!

Instead of waiting for this morning I decided to take the plunge and went for my first run yesterday in La Villa General Belgrano, Argentina. There was no real reason stopping me as I was being offered: fresh air, good distance, my space and an amazing backdrop! I took some photos but I forgot my camera cable so those will follow shortly.

I have over two months here for some quality training so I plan to enjoy every moment. The first 5 mins of the run was a struggle to begin with due to being in a different surrounding and having to adjust with the breathing. After 20 mins I felt great and wanted to go on and on....so I did! I ran round the town and got familiar with what was on offer for the next runs. I ran for 40 mins before stopping off for a quick drink of water at home (that is how close everything is here!!) and then continued for a further 20 mins. I didn't want to push myself too much on the first run, however, eventually, I hope to manage several longer runs which will give me enough stamina to complete runs of 3 - 4 hrs.