On 31.08.08, Nike is making a statement like no other before. Nike is putting on the World’s Largest Running Event. The 10k event will be the ultimate runner experience. By combining our digital running world with the physical, the Nike+ Human Race is open to anyone, anywhere. Nike is hosting race events in 25 cities around the world, but by logging into nikeplus.com, every city and every road can become a race-day course.
This was my first official race which I had been training with times now. It was my then boyfriend who had suggested to me instead of running for a length of time, to try running for a distance in a set time. Of course during training, I begun getting myself acquainted with this new type of running. Pace was the essence. But on a treadmill, I would know what pace I was at. How on earth was I to know what speed to run in a race?
I totally enjoyed myself. The beginning was a bit disorganised running in waves, but it only meant that people were left freeing cold as they waited inside Wembley’s new stadium. Pendulum was fantastic doing the warm up.. if only it went on longer! I have learnt that being nearer to the start line helps a great deal as you spend your time walking to the start line and then try to over take people to pick up your own pace and get your own space.
I totally loved it, made a friend along the way as we used each other as markers and through the wind and rain and night lights, the crowds enthusiastic cheers and huge support was tremendous. It makes you feel energised and to keep going! The Human Race aired on huge screens how well other countries were also taking part and it really brought a sense of team spirit!
I remember dodging thrown water bottles in my path and also rain puddles. Some had started to walk, which i was calling out motivation to help others. It was really good fun. I then turned on of the corners and I saw huge huge flood lights. I guessed I was near the end, and decided I had great energy in me to go faster… and off I went.. It turned out to be 8km or 8.5k i had reached and decided to do a sprint finish. Gosh, I read that wrong didnt i?!! lol. but it was worth it. I pushed myself and at the last stretch where it was straight and i tried to look out for my bf, and just sprinted as fast as my legs could take me….
Where I crossed the line and just that feeling.. there are people at your feet trying to take off the chip off your shoes whilst you try and catch your breath.. i couldn’t stop beaming.. and people pointing you to follow some direction towards goodie bags.. awww.. I checked my phone and saw a text had just come through! My bf had just got to the finish line. Aww. he had just missed me, he was there, but i guess as I sprinted, you had to really know i was about to bomb in down that straight stretch!
He had brought me warm dry clothes and I was soaked through from sweat and rain.. I was so happy! Definitely buzzing, feet soaked and rain dripping off my face amongst the umbrellas in the crowds. There was more concerts taking place afterwards, but I think the only thing I could think of was a nice warm shower, out of these wet clothes.. and water!! YEY I DID IT!
Run The Streets 