Roughly two years ago, I started running and sadly, five minutes was my absolute limit. At some point, I was fed up of being the runt of the litter, with the litter consisting of a bunch of naturally athletic jocks. Starting in September 2004, I started training for the Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon in September 2005. Hard work overcame a childhood of obesity and a total absence of athletic skill and I finished in 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Everyone has been very encouraging and complimentary of what is a respectable time. But I can't help but notice a doubt in their faces. A look that reads: She trips and falls on nothing (all true). She has absolutely no athletic abilities. I could probably do a half-marathon in 2 hours and 15 minutes easy.
Many have thought this, no doubt. But few have been careless enough to voice it. Except my friend, Tony. Tony guestimates that he'll finish the half-marathon in 2 hours and 30 minutes. Tony has only run 1 mile, in under 5 minutes. A half marathon is roughly 13 miles.
This Sunday, we'll be putting theory to practice. I've signed Tony up for the Fallsview Casino Half Marathon, as part of an early Christmas gift. The weather promises to be nippy but the elevation is very forgiving (either level or downhill).
The majority of both stranger and mutual friends have reacted with horror at what is essentially my push to put Tony in a ditch with his pants around his ankles. But, my friend, Yvette totally agrees with me that Tony had it coming.
But you don't know Tony. He's really hardy and stubborn. I'm pretty sure he'll finish and I secretly fear he'll surpass my time.
Stay tuned! Results to come.
PS The accompanying photo is of Roger, runner extraordinaire. He also started running about a year ago and, as you can see, ran the half marathon in 1 hour 42 minutes. I'm pretty sure he has no doubts about beating me. Otherwise, his photo is a non sequitar. I just find it funny.
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