Hey kids, let me squeeze in one last blog before we jump into the August diary.
A little backstory first: when registration for this race opened, it sold out in just 2–3 days. I was so bummed because I really wanted to join.
Fast forward to June—I was out running with a friend when I saw they reopened a few slots. I WAS FLOORED. I literally sat down on the spot to register and, lucky me, got in right before it sold out again 10 minutes later!
That’s when it hit me:
NOW I REALLY HAVE TO TRAIN FOR THIS.
Before, I’d only been slowly building mileage up to 10 whenever I could, but this felt different. It required consistency and endurance (two things I don’t exactly have in abundance lol). I’m really just a girl trying to survive her runs, no matter how short. But I’ve been eyeing the 10K distance for a while, and my personal motto has always been: “You can fucking walk if you’re tired.” That’s why I squeeze in runs even while traveling—I’d rather be tired on vacation than suffer more during race day.
This was supposed to be my second 10K race—the Aphrodite Run in July being my first—but that one got canceled due to a typhoon and moved to September 20. Unfortunately, it fell on a Saturday, and I couldn’t file for leave. So I asked my cousin to run in my place, with one condition: I still get the finisher shirt (that’s what I signed up for anyway lol). He could keep the medal, since it wouldn’t feel right to claim it.
Come race day, I only had about 3 hours of sleep because I came home late from Cavite (hello, traffic). My plan? “I’ll just walk the whole thing and take it easy.”
I got to the venue just before the gun start—no time for warm-ups. Dropped my bag, headed straight to the starting line, and wow—so many runners, influencers, and celebrities. Liz Uy was even right next to me! I was in the second batch.
The countdown ended and I clicked on my watch and ran. The space was a bit cramped at first; there were already many people walking, so I had to excuse myself a couple of times until I found some free space to move comfortably.
I was doing okay, crossing 1k, 2k, 3k, 4k, until I saw the EDSA flyover. I was like What?? You all have got to be kidding me! no way I'm going to run uphill on that bridge. That's where I started to really walk and it was almost a 2km distance. My stats were already not looking good; now they got worse lol
After the bridge and U-turn back to flat ground, I picked up my pace again and tried to save my numbers (plus stopped for some photos, of course lol).
Despite that long walk break, I actually finished stronger than expected. Normally I’m dead tired by 5k, but this time I felt satisfied. Crossing the finish line with the biggest smile on my face? Priceless. ♥
I was on cloud nine!
Headed straight to get my things and my loot bag.
I got a towel, a sunnies sunglasses, and some vouchers from their sponsors.
Roamed around to get some other free stuff, like a free ice cream.
Free bread from Pan de Manila
I also joined their cool down session with Anytime Fitness, we danced around while doing some stretches. My body felt good.
ahhhhh can't believe this!
Stayed until the program ended, hoping for a raffle prize. No luck there, but I treated myself to milk and pastries from Starbucks instead.
Running these races alone feels so liberating. There’s a unique rush to it, one I want to keep chasing. I’ve realized that as adults, we really don’t need to wait for anyone—if I want to sign up, I will, even if it means going solo.
I think I’ve officially fallen in love with running. That post-run high is real.
I used to think that running 10k was impossible, but here's me finally crossing it off on my bucket list!
Here’s to more miles and better health. ♥ Congratulations to all finishers!
See you on my next run!
Grasya
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