On Sunday 13 January Merane successfully ran The Brass Monkey half-marathon as part of her 10-event challenge to raise funds for the NTF and awareness tremor. Merane shares all about her latest challenge.
I knew it was going to be a tough event, but thanks to encouragement and support from my family and friends I completed a very emotional run.
I stood on the start line a bag of mixed emotions and nerves. Then we set off no turning back now. The first 7 miles I was carried along by the crowds. Chatting to others when I could catch my breath. My watch stopped working so I couldn’t see how fast I was going. I was going too fast and couldn’t keep up the pace. I gradually started to slow & each drinks station it seemed harder to get going again.
The arguments between my body and mind started. Putting one foot in front of another I thought of my loved ones and walked & ran to the finish line with my heart.
Tears fell as I crossed the line and hugged my support crew & saw my nephew Josh who completed his first half marathon in a fantastic time. A quick visit from the first aiders as they saw me crying and shaking. In a positive way I see it as another chance to educate them about my tremors.
I found the event wonderfully organised & enjoyable even though I found it tough. As with everything else I have good runs and bad, it just makes me more determined to keep going, one step at a time.
Well done to Merane! We look forward to hearing about her next challenge, the Harewood house trail half marathon 13.1 miles, on 17 February.