On Sunday 29th September 2019, John, my sister Fidelia and I took part in the annual Enfield Mayor’s Fun Run. The 3k and 5k events might be fun but definitely not the 10k as this race is as tough as the Enfield Trent Park 10K with similar trail terrains and steep hills. This time was even tougher and muddy as a result of the continuous downpour the previous day. The temperature was actually perfect for running. It was about 16’C. The sky was threatening to give us some downpour. Fortunately, it didn’t materialise throughout the whole morning.
We only came back from our holiday in Hong Kong and China a week before, I literally did not do any running at all while on holiday even though both of the hotels we were staying have very nice gym and spa facilities. We were just far too busy in meeting up with friends and relatives over lunch after lunch and dinner after dinner every day. We did go for some hiking trips but we hiked slowly and leisurely. I wouldn’t even count them as training. So after 3 weeks with no run and a few kilos heavier, I really didn’t expect much, just a slow run. During the race, I really struggled up the hills. I pushed myself hard but my legs had no power. At this point, I was only focusing on survival and completion. I skidded around the puddles, trying not to fall but my feet failed to get a grip. On a couple occasions and I nearly tripped. I must admit some of the muddy sections on the course are almost not runnable so we had to run round them. The last K was terrible as it is all uphill and grassy all the way to the finish. Thanks for the encouraging words from the marshals. They gave us some extra boost near the end. I crossed the finished line in 1:04’21”. Fidelia finished in 1:06’46” and John finished in 1:13’49”. We were all slow.
After the race, I felt my body had really taken the battering. I was exhausted. I was not happy with my time as I was 6 minutes slower than last year. It was a true reflection of my lack of training but at least I had got the post run buzz and endorphin. This was my first race in 3 months since the Enfield Trent Park 10K back in June. I hope to do a better time in the Regents Park 10K next Sunday.
For full results, please visit: