The First Half Marathon

On Sunday, I did what I though I couldn’t do.

I ran a 21km half marathon.

I’m not the pioneer in races like this - many runners precede me.

But here are my great experiences.

Very fun

Running alongside a thousand runners is very fun and thrilling experiences. Athletes of all ages, from sixteen to over sixty years old. We’ve stood before the Meridian Gate (Ngọ Môn), warming up before starting. The atmosphere was bustling.

Running with a young brother is exciting

Quan is my young brother. He has completed 21 km last year. He radiated positivity and burst with enthusiasm. At the first 5km, it’s a fun to talk with him.

My leg cramped up during in last 3km

When I was entering the 18th kilometer, I sprinted. But, I felt my muscles hurting in my leg. After that, I can’t run. I began sitting. I think I will to drop out of the race. Some people approached me. They helped pull my leg out. Some of them advised me to get up and walk backwards.

Inspiring people who run these races

Although my legs are still hurting. But when I looked around, I see some men and women in their 50s and 60s who were way ahead of me. It’s motivates me to keep running.

Don’t give up

I began to get up, step by step, then moved up. I keep going. In this time, I’m filled with joy.

I overlooked my aching feet and plunged into the throng approaching the finish.

When approaching the finish line, I see my young brother’s. I’m happy to see him.