05/12/2023
About dreams
At the age of 41, I achieved a significant milestone by completing the Valencia Marathon in an impressive time of 2.58 hours. Reflecting on my journey, I recalled being just 17 years old when I harbored the ambition to run my first marathon in Duisburg, Germany, aiming for a sub-3-hour finish. Despite possessing the physical capacity, various factors such as mental strength, specific training, suitable footwear, and proper race fueling were lacking. Consequently, I completed the marathon in 3 hours and 9 minutes, facing a challenging moment at kilometer 35.
In the subsequent years, at 19, I intensified my training, achieving a notable time of 3 hours and 1 minute in another marathon but still struggling in the last 10 kilometers. Eventually, I retired from marathon running, shifting my focus to football due to the demanding and solitary nature of long-distance running as a teenager.
Fast forward 24 years and 20 marathons later, with five attempts at fast flat city marathons, I realized that the key to breaking the 3-hour barrier lay in a crucial aspect: my body weight and diet. After years of analysis, I identified mistakes and made a significant change—losing 7 kg by cutting out sugar and alcohol, adopting a low-carb, whole-grain diet, reducing portion sizes, and adjusting the order of nutrients. Surprisingly, these changes didn't compromise my training; instead, I gradually shed weight while increasing my weekly mileage from 70 km to 90 km.
With newfound confidence after testing my race pace in various training sessions, I embarked on the Valencia Marathon fully prepared. Everything went according to plan, and I maintained my kilometer split times. Despite some side stitches from energy gels, the race felt remarkably easy, with no dreaded "wall" in sight. Around kilometer 35, I encountered a minor setback as my left calf threatened to cramp. Adapting my pace and running form, I navigated the final kilometers with determination.
As the crowded streets of Valencia cheered me on, I experienced a surge of pride and gratitude. With only 400 meters to go, I triumphantly approached the blue ramp, expressing my elation to the crowd. The journey had taken 24 years, but I had finally realized a dream that had lingered in my mind for decades.
Some dreams indeed take time.
