London Marathon #2: 19 weeks to go

The past week has been a recovery week after taking part in the half marathon event in the Beyond Blue 2XU Wellness Run. The event took place along the St Kilda foreshore on 11 December, and attracted nearly 10,000 participants. The event raises funds for Beyond Blue and also highlights the importance of managing mental health and investing in wellness. Some of the reasons people join in this event include:

"I'm running for mental health awareness and to remember my Dad."

To raise awareness on mental health issues, donations for Beyond Blue, and to challenge myself physically and mentally."

"To challenge myself in the name of a great cause and personal growth."

I came third in my age group, females 50 to 59 but was astounded to read about Jill, the woman that won our category. Like me, she is in the upper end of the age bracket but placed 72 out of 3,738 competitors (male and female) and was the 4th female to finish overall in a time of 1:26:18. AMAZING!

Researching a bit further I found Jill was the fastest in the 55-59 female category in the 2023 Chicago Marathon, running it in under 3 hours. WOW!

I will never be able to hold a candle to that level of performance! My time for the half marathon was 1:44:37. BUT this is my learning: To compare is not helpful nor healthy, there will always be somebody faster, smarter, stronger. I choose to be inspired by Jill and celebrate the fact she is showcasing what older women are capable of. I am focusing on being the best I can be and enjoying coming together with thousands of other people to support worthwhile causes and to continue to challenge myself.

"Doing your best is more important than being the best." - Shannon Miller