My 2nd Full Marathon on my 4th Year Running Anniversary

February is my running anniversary month.  I started running last February 26, 2006 in the 2nd Philippine International Marathon.  I still have the race bib #1646, the race packet and the singlet with me.  You can read a recap of my first ever run at Manokan Express.  How I wished the Philippine International Marathon is still held every last week of February.  I want to celebrate my running anniversary with a full marathon.

Fortunately, I was invited to run a full marathon on February 28, 2010 — The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon.  Perfect way to celebrate my 4th year of running.

It was in early January when I received a call from New Balance.  They asked me if I am interested to join the Hong Kong Marathon on February 28.  I gave a quick answer.  YES!!!

I was still preparing for the Cebu City Marathon and the Condura Run back then.  At the same time, I was nursing an injury after the Rizal Day 32K Run last December.  The Cebu Run was supposed to be a training run.  Unfortunately, my knees got worst after finishing my first marathon in Cebu.

After the Cebu Marathon, I had to assess if I can still run both the Condura Run and the Hong Kong Marathon.  I was undecided so Quennie made the decision for me.  Skip Condura Run.  Recover and run the Hong Kong Marathon.  It was obviously a decision that was beneficial for her as well.  The next day, she booked her flight to Hong Kong.  I have no choice.  Hehehe…

It’s less than two weeks to go before the Hong Kong Marathon.  I am not as prepared as I was for the Cebu Marathon.  I have very low mileage lately since I was taking it easy on my knees.  But I am pushing for a 25K as a long run before I leave.  I just consider my two months of short runs as a taper mode.

I am scared.  I finished my first marathon in Cebu at 6:08.  The cut off time for Hong Kong Marathon is 5:30 with separate time limits set in specific locations along the course.  Those who don’t meet the cut off times are asked to take a ride and will be considered DNF even if you already at KM40.  I hope my knees are fully recovered.  I’m sure I can meet the cut off time and receive my medal as long as my knees don’t get painful early.  Pray for me.

Aside from the marathon, I will also attend a two-day New Balance Tech Summit to learn more about running.  Among the discussions are Foot Biomechanics, Injuries, Gait Analysis, and more.  Plus presentation of New Balance products and technologies.  If I would be allowed, I’ll share the materials with you when I get back.

The New Balance Tech Summit is attended by other runners from Asia Pacific countries including China, Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Malaysia.  Jaymie and I are the two runners from the Philippines. Quennie will be there to support and shopping.

Thanks to New Balance for giving me this chance to join the Hong Kong Marathon and the Tech Summit.  I agree then to do a dance number during the welcome dinner.  Oh no… Julieway, kailangan kong matutong mag split.