I was lucky enough to secure a place in the Royal Parks Half Marathon through the ballot. There some tough competition and chances are it won’t happen again, so I was determined to make the most of the opportunity.
The plan was simple: just enjoy it. I was to use it as my usual Sunday long steady run, as part of my ongoing 5km personal best training plan. No racing, no chasing times, just a quality aerobic effort with a fantastic atmosphere and scenery.
The weather forecast had threatened rain all week, but thankfully it never really arrived. Conditions were close to perfect as I made my way to the start line.
My plan did not last long. As I waited for the starting gun, I realised I felt good. My legs my fresh. I changed my mind.
My half marathon personal best lay just above the 1:50 mark from Kenilworth last year and today seemed the right day to attempt an elusive sub-1:50.
The opening miles felt controlled and comfortable, and I settled into a rhythm that suggested the target might be within reach. Running through some of London’s most beautiful parks and past iconic landmarks, I focused on staying relaxed and holding a strong pace.
By the closing stages, the race was beginning to bite. The legs were working hard, the effort was climbing, and every mile felt earned. And by kilometer 18 they had earned a true battering.
In the end, I crossed the line just short of the magic mark, albeit it still a personal best.
Not bad for a race that was originally supposed to be an training run and I had mentally prepared only to take it easy.
🏅 Half Marathon PB ✅
🎯 Sub-1:50 attempt ✅
⏱️ Sub-1:50 result ❌
📈 Better luck next time ✅
– Stacey Raven