My reflections a week after running the TCS 10k in 63Min 10Secs.
Last Sunday, I ran the TCS 10k, as I have been doing for the last several years.
Running the TCS 10k has always been a fun experience. While it may not be a full marathon distance, it is rewarding to see what my body can do when I push it. This year, I had only done 5km stretches in my training runs and was a little apprehensive about running the full 10km on race day. But the supercharged atmosphere and being in that environment with 1000s of other runners with the same goal got me going and I managed to run the whole distance without stopping. I saw once again just how powerful self-motivation can be, especially when paired with drawing energy from others around you. I also learnt how important the setting is and why it matters to create an environment in which you can work towards greater heights.
Before the race began, I was in a holding area that was not moving as fast as I would have liked. We were standing in the same spot for several minutes and nearly half an hour after the scheduled start, we heard the announcer saying the people still in the holding area would be disqualified if we did not cross the start line in 5 minutes. I was worried about losing time being stuck near the tail of the crowd. But this worry melted away as I found gaps and powered through. The biggest lesson here was how crucial it is to keep calm when problems arise because that can make the difference between success and failure.
I started my run at my own pace. It was going well until I saw a group led by a runner who was making a pathway through the crowds right in the middle. The group was clearly faster than everybody else around so I joined them on the fly and my pace increased and stayed there for the rest of the race. It only became clear to me just how fast I was going after I crossed the finish line and saw my timings. As I sat by the side and iced my knees, I realized that a high-performing team led by a competent leader can take an individual to further heights, even if you don't realize it at the time. I aim to be that kind of runner and leader next year so I can clear a path for others to realize their full potential.
Despite running with the fast group, my energy levels started dropping towards the end. Of course, I noticed it, but I knew that I would not be able to recover my pace if I were to slow down, especially in the final stretch. And so, I pushed myself to keep going. I realized only later that the other runners around me were also taking in energy drinks and chocolates along the way, which kept their energy levels going. Had I done the same, I could've potentially improved my timings. As important as skill, and preparation is, you cannot put that talent to use without the right fuel. It is vital to keep an eye on your battery levels, so you are sufficiently charged up to push for glory.
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Business Development and Marketing Director
4moCongrats on the new arrival.