All thanks to the Lord for the good weather, good health, good support, really really good friends, good host, good event and the good people I’ve met. It was my 1st marathon, another wish and goal achieved! Oct 11, 2026!
In early January of 2026, I summited the highest mountain in the Philippines, Mt. Apo. I met John, also a solo joiner. He shared he completed the full marathon for 3 hours just a week ago.
He reminded me of my deepest desire to finish a 42Km/Full Marathon. So I said to myself, “I’m going to make that my goal before this year ends.” So, I did!
Katie, one of the top 3 Mt. Apo climber on our team that day, posted her 42Km Full marathon achievement around April 2026. I found another inspiration.
When Jpark posted that 42km opportunity, I did not hesitate. I paid up right away, “This is my chance! I’m going to make it to the finish line too.” Now the three of us have completed the full marathon. Recently, John posted another milestone, he’d became an ultra marathoner , that’s 50km. I’m keeping my mind open.
For now, I’m enjoying the success of my first ever full marathon because it was Life changing! I faced fear of darkness, silence, loneliness, pain, shame, and most of all fear of the unknown. I was tempted too many times but my choice remained focused to the goal. I let go of anything that scares, I kept going.
“I am proud of me.” I faced the fear of being the last to arrive and enjoyed the Shame instead of pushing myself to get injured. I did not over trained because I wanted to enjoy this first time experience, I will be running again next time to get a better result until I’m satisfied.
In the past, I don’t like being the last, I’m always scared of “Who’s following me.” I thought I would be the last person to arrive and I didn’t let it bother me. It doesn’t matter, as long as I’d finish it on time. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to get my medal and finisher shirt, but I remember the host said, “Don’t forget to get your medal and finisher shirt.”
I kept going and claimed what is rightfully mine. It’s painful but it’s all worth it. Cheating sounds like a crime , I’d rather be the last than fool myself. I passed that test, I deserved my medal and that’s all that matters. It still felt great, so great, felt so good, I’m free in the end! I relied on me, and I kept going alone.
You don’t need to be a Master before you start. You become one by Starting. So start now and keep going !
