“It’s kind of fun to do the impossible – Walt Disney” – I saw this quote on bill boards several times during many of my training runs on Fridays and while driving around the city. Every time I saw this quote, a surge of energy flew through my body and I told myself – Yes! I will do it again. I got a chance very soon.
On the chilly morning of 16th January, 2009 I was standing with hundreds of other strong minded people who had decided to overcome the limitations of their physical and mental boundaries. They had taken the challenge of running Dubai Marathon, a distance of 42.195 Kilometers, starting from Westin Hotel, Mina Syahi, till the big flag at Al Diyafah and back. I started strong. My yearlong practice was showing its fruitful results. This was not the first time I was running a marathon, rather the third time.. I have done it in 2007 and 2008 as well. I have learnt the physical pains and mental agony of running a long distance of 42 plus kms. At the same time, I also know it is never the same every time. Unlike ever before, I faced a bigger challenge this time as I got cramps on my upper thigh at 34Km mark. I had to stop. I couldn’t bend my leg at all. Several thoughts flashed into my mind. How will I go forward from here now? Am I going to be carried away in an ambulance?? Am I not going to finish the marathon on my feet? What will my friends and family think? Am I a weak person? I recalled how good it feels to cross the finish line. I remembered how good it will feel to complete the marathon, not that I want to prove anything to anybody but to myself.. Suddenly I recalled the famous saying – It’s kind of fun to do the impossible. I felt the same rush of energy and slowly I started stretching my legs and walking.. My legs supported my thoughts. Slowly I started running again. Walking and running & running and walking I reached the finish line in 4 hours 28 minutes. Though the timimg was same as last years’, I am happy I didn’t give up.. I am happy that I didn’t let myself down. I am happy to be one of those rare few who did accomplish something not everyone can accomplish.
See you in Dubai Marathon 2010.
