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. 😛