Life is either a daring adventure or nothing

In 2005, I ran the Half Marathon (21km) in 2 hours 35 minutes.

Yesterday, I took part in the Army Half Marathon and completed it in....... *drum roll*....... 4 HOURS 11 MINUTES..

Calculating, it would mean I am 1 hour 35 minutes slower than the previous year! Oh, and not to mention that I left the race with a strained knee. Ouch! Having already conquered marathons and the many physical challenges in previous years, why did I have to pay money and subject myself to sure torture again? Am I out of my mind or what?!?!?!

Well, my only motivation that spurred me on to run this year was because my good friend and dear brother Dy wanted to run. He was taking it on as a personal challenge, aiming to lead up to the 42km marathon at the end of the year. I was so encouraged and inspired by his decision that I decided to run alongside him to support him on. That's what buddies are for right? No point just talking about commitment and blood brothers and not doing anything to show about it!

Boy oh boy... both of us really went through a gruelling but enjoyable race. The night before, we only managed to catch 2-3 hours of sleep before checking into the race. Both of us got injured during the race and spent most of our time walking and watching bundles of runner breezing past us. I think the 70 years old uncle walked faster than us! =P

But we definitely had a wonderful time through the entire race just talking, sharing, catching up and sweating it out together. Guess being guys, nothing bonds us more together than slogging and fighting through battles together.

As we reached the end point, we were both hobbling. But we forced outself to run as we wanted to look good across the finish line. It didn't matter anymore what was our timing... We were glad we made it.... TOGETHER.

Special tribute to brother Dy:
Thanks brother Dy! I ran quite a few races in my life before, but this one gave me the greatest sense of satisfaction. Committed to you always! Let's fight on and finish strong together!

Reflection:
Many will proclaim to be true friends and buddies in life, but it will never be truly complete until you have been through thick and thin together. Buddies are tried and tested!