Bounemouth Half Marathon
A lovely race report which reminds us how wonderful our running journey can be…
**Race report by Nicky**
Sunday 13 October 2024 brought perfect weather conditions to run a half marathon. This was not just any run, this was my first event for almost a year but most importantly, my daughter Maddie’s first run of this distance.
Hundreds of runners assembled in their coloured waves, waiting for the race to start. For me, this is when the pressure suddenly takes a grip and my mind starts asking me if I have what it takes to get the job done. On this occasion, time and pace was not important. I was there to embrace the atmosphere and support Maddie.
We joined the final wave and edged towards the start line; watches at the ready, and off we went. I was fighting back the tears, but I am sure you wouldn’t expect anything less from me…
Spectators lined the streets, accompanied by music and cheers. The support was overwhelming and breathtaking. The children were holding out their hands in anticipation of receiving a hi five from the runners. I encouraged Maddie to tap hands as she ran past to embrace the energy they were giving off.
The course itself was undulating, starting at Hengistbury Head and out along the cliff top, then down to the prom. Through Boscombe Gardens and back along East Cliff. Doubling back and down onto the prom again. Past all the cafe’s wishing I could stop for a coffee and slice of lemon drizzle . Then for the worst part; for the final 3 miles, the course took us past the finish and back out to Boscombe Pier. We ran the length of the pier and into the final stretch back towards Bournemouth Pier; the finish. I swear the pier was moving further away with every step we took.
As we approached the finish, the sound of the crowd got louder. The cheers were spurring us on and carrying us. Hearing complete strangers shout out our names in support was something I had never experienced before. Just to the end of the pier and back to go. Maddie and I gripped each others hands and sprinted for the finish line.
I am not quite sure how neither of us stacked it at this point, but we didn’t. We crossed the finish line in a respectable 2 hours 11 mins.
We had done it!
She had done it!
The wave of painful memories from the last five years flashed before my eyes. From a frail teenager unable to leave the house because she was so weak, to the strong, inspirational young lady standing at the finish line after completing her first half marathon was an incredible moment and I am extremely proud of her.
We took a moment to thank the ED as without the challenging times it bought us, neither of us would have crossed the finish line today and I for sure would never have made it to the start.
Would we recommend Bournemouth Half? Yes, most definitely.
Everything happens for a reason.
