3things i found i hate about marathons.

1)The throng of people competing.
On the contrary, the people's actually fine, its the numerous skin-to-skin contact that isn't. Having said that i think its fair i justify that i've propagated my fair share of sweat induced contact; inevitable as it is due to the number of people competing for space.

2)The human roadblocks.
People who stop and walk without any concern for the runners behind them. (like hello? there are people RUNNING behind you. Its a MARATHON. duh?) I understand this statement might appear harsh but having to meander around roadblocks become exceptional annoying when I'm trying desperately to complete the race fast. The fact that there are that many runners, which further accentuates the problem, doesn't help either. Perhaps a walking lane should be set aside the next time. Or they could operate much like normal traffic on the road- keep left if you're driving slow.

3)The seemingly endless number of people to overtake.
Usually one major source of motivation comes from having to maintain a relative lead. But in a marathon, where timing is electronically recorded, there's no way to tell heads from tails. However, to justify, it would have helped to be standing at the starting line during the flag off instead of chatting away at the opposite grass field. It's amazing where all these people come from. One never seems to gain any kind of lead throughout the race. Perhaps its psychological, but it becomes depressing after the novelty factor(since its a rather new experience) wears off; which happened to me about 8km into the race.


What i loved.

1)The finishing line
The finish line holds many meaning. For some, its like the light at the end of the tunnel;or water in the Sahara desert. For me, the line 'Mind over Body' was deftly illustrated as i turned the corner and saw the finishing line. All the fatigue went out the window. It was like an Energizer battery for the Mind. Having said that, I believe only those who put in their effort to complete the race will experience what I've seeked to explain. It's a refreshing feeling; to be finally able to do something right.

2)The pains and aches.
I'm mildly masochistic. Enough said.

3)The race.
The adrenaline; the sense of accomplishment; the satisfaction of overcoming an obstacle. 21km might seem 'peanuts' to long term marathoners but it's the longest i've EVER ran up till now. So for the avid runner, excuse my relative inexperience.