Canberra Times 10km Fun Run 2012

What a glorious day we had yesterday. Starting with, of note, my first race since falling pregnant last year.

I have run this annual race twice before – both times were before I started this blog, and both times were with Mr BBB. I had actually planned to run this race with a friend, but unfortunately she fell ill the day before, so it became a solo race for me instead.

It has been a long time since I have run 10km. It was also the first time I was running a race in my new ‘Mum’ body, feeding a bub before leaving the house and wearing not one but two sports bras for support (TMI?). But when I woke to sunny blue skies on the morning of the race, well I was excited.

Pre race

As we drove to the start line, I commented to Mr BBB that this was one of the first times I was racing with no expectations. Self-imposed expectations, that is. I was pretty sure I would finish, but had no great expectations as to my finishing time.  I estimated that I would finish in around an hour and 10 minutes, but secretly wanted to come in closer to an hour. But ultimately this was a race for fun. And I am pleased to report that it was just that. Fun.

As I kissed my cheer squad goodbye, and promised to see them at the finish line, I joined the crowds heading towards the start line.

There was warmth in the air, I had an ipod filled with music, and I felt calm. It felt amazing to be out ‘racing’ again, and I felt grateful that my body felt ready after a long hiatus.

The race

Before too long, the start gun sounded, and the crowd slowly surged towards the start line. After a minute or two, I crossed the start line myself, and my race began.

With some nostalgic tunes playing in my ear (Blink 182, Everclear….), the first few kilometres ticked by relatively quickly. There were over 4000 people racing, so the crowd stayed pretty thick, as we headed up Adelaide Avenue towards the iconic Parliament House.

And it all continued to feel rather wonderful. I consciously took in the sights around me.

Chatted to the runners in costume.

Felt the sun on my face.

Appreciated this hour of ‘me’ time knowing that Charlotte would be having a wonderful morning with her Dad.

All while the kms continued to tick by, and the finish line drew closer and closer.

7km, 8km, 9km…..and not long after, I saw these guys in the crowd…

Just the motivation I needed to give it one last surge towards the finish line!

And just like that, my return to ‘racing’ was complete.

I literally skipped with delight when i saw my finishing time….

55 minutes 43 seconds

Which far exceeded my wildest dreams for my first 10km in such a long time. I was on a high all day!

But racing, medals and a great finishing time aside, the best reward was being greeted by this gal at the end for a big cuddle!

And now it is onwards and upwards – to the Melbourne Half Marathon next month. I’m excited!!!

*edited to add - The day after - I am SORE. Between the run and an hour of gardening yesterday, I don’t think there is a part of my body that isn’t aching. I see a long hot bath in my future!