Celebrating a birthday - Running a Marathon

Ola Expats,

I have a small tale to tell, take from it what you will, but in the end it is a tale of triumph in the face of the unknown.

As many of you know, I am always present on the forum to give out info to any and all that require it. A few months ago, in late 2012, I started my own running group, and we have been going strong every week ever since.

Yesterday was my birthday, I turned 27. This time last year I had decided to run a KM for every year of my age. Last year I did 26KM in 3hrs18minutes.

This year, I decided to forgo doing 27, and instead opted to run my very first marathon. I have never done a distance of 42.2KM before, but it felt like something I had to do. I am not the fastest runner in my group, the Q8FootSoldiers, nor have I crossed the most distance, but I always set goals and achieve them, you will remember last February 25th me and 2 friends attempted 25K on the Gulf Road. I succeeded.

So this year, I started off at Burger King on the 6th Ring road, and ran up the Gulf Road towards KPC and beyond.

Here is a video chronicling the journey (link)

I would never have been able to finish it if not for the help of my friends, the Q8FootSoldiers, my brainchild.

The point is; find friends who share your interests. You will be surprised.

Yesterday, on my birthday, my friends arranged a surprise party for me. These are people that took the time out of their lives to make this one guy feel special.

so do not ask what people can do for you, in terms of going to parties, socializing etc. do your own thing, make your own group and trust me, the results will delight you.