1. The Last 100 Metres
It doesnt matter what distance youve run. It could be a 5k ParkRun, a local 10k, a busy half marathon or a huge full distance race, when it comes to the last one hundred metres, its almost like the rest of the race pales into insignificance. The other X amount of kilometres were only there to bring you to this point. You dont have time to get the MP3 again. The niggle in your knee can do one. This is what youve trained for and it doesnt matter if youre new to running or Mo Farah, everything comes down to that last one hundred metres. You straighten your back and focus on the finish line. You begin to pick up your pace even though your body is dragging you back. The air is leaving your body quicker than youd like but you have the strength, the power, the training to do this. You feel great. Youre flying! Youve never felt so good! And then? Five metres from the end...that bloody bloke dressed as a panda hurtles by you in full-on panda sprint mode and you collapse over the line. It doesnt matter though. You shake the panda by the, er, paw and look for your friends. You did it. You ran the distance with your favourite running shoes. With your massive watch which is currently telling you your heart is going like the clappers. With the energy drinks and juices and excessive pasta consumption. You did it. Thank God. Now. Whens the next race again?