I completed my first half marathon on Sunday, the Surrey Badger Half.
Around 400 people set off early on Sunday morning from Denbies Vineyard in Dorking to complete this 13.1 mile race through the beautiful Mole Valley Countryside.
The loop took runners through Denbies Vineyard and then out towards Mickleham before climbing through Norbury Park, with stunning views across to Box Hill.
Since starting to run in April, I’ve been gradually working up to this distance. My first three races were 10k each, so 13.1 miles (21k) was a considerably bigger challenge.
Despite failing to stick to my planned race pace, I enjoyed a strong run and finished in 1 hour 47 minutes, coming in 98th place out of 399 runners, my best result in a race to date.
I wasn’t really sure what to expect from the half marathon distance. This race definitely took me out of my comfort zone and has motivated me to complete a full trail marathon in 2013, probably the Greensand Marathon next October.
Here at Informed Choice, we are sponsoring and helping to organise a 5k fun run which takes place on Sunday 2nd December.
This is in aid of The Jigsaw School (Charity No. 1075464), which provides for the needs of children with autism. The run takes place at their base in Dunsfold Park, also home of the BBC Top Gear track.
If you are a keen runner or simply want to set an easily achievable fitness goal for the end of the year, please sign up today at www.jigsaw5k.org.uk and help to support this wonderful local charity.
