Be brave, rise to the challenge

Derek Redmond was favourite to win the 400 metres race at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

However, 150 metres into the distance, the Englishman experienced severe pain and fell to the ground. He had a torn hamstring but sheer determination to finish the race made him get up and start hobbling towards the finish line.

Crossing security barriers, his father Jim joined him on the track, urging him on. Leaning on his father’s shoulder, Redmond completed the lap amid the huge applause and standing ovation of the 65,000 spectators present.

For many, that was the most inspiring episode in the Olympic Games annals, an example of great willpower, determination and strength of mind.

February 24, 2013 marks the 28th edition of the Land Rover Malta Marathon.

Our annual athletics calendar is full of race dates yet the Malta Marathon seems to be the highlight for every aspiring participant, particularly newcomers.

Many already have their minds focused on the half marathon and marathon, wondering if they can fulfill their pre-set goals and cover the 21.1km course or the whole 42.2km route in almost three months’ time.

On a personal note, back in March I had planned my race schedule for the rest of the year.

But, without warning, my life led me towards another direction and at the beginning of April, I found myself engaged in a full-time job.

My life changed from day to night. This new job, along with my other part-time work, running schedule and family commitments became a real challenge.

Chores have to be done but with my daily morning run and three-time weekly gym sessions being a requisite, my alarm clock was set for 3.15am daily.

The first few weeks turned out fine. I was okay, taking in four hours of sleep and living my life to the full.

Exhaustion was soon creeping inside me, however.

Although I had no problem with my schedule on weekdays, my long Sunday runs suddenly became a real struggle. It was only my utter obstinacy that made me reluctant to admit defeat.

Then, I was at work one day and amid my frustration, I received an email from a client in South Korea.

His comment at the end read... “your name conjuncts with a Maltese marathoner (The Times of Malta)”.

That left me completely stunned. How on earth did my name reach this distant stranger?

As I was working on this piece earlier this week, another email appeared on my screen, this time from a fellow runner in Africa.

One email from a stranger, a message from an overseas friend and that’s what got the ball rolling.

How do I get started and how will I find the time?

Let’s assume you already run or walk at least 30 to 60 minutes three or four times a week. With 12 weeks to go, although 21.1km is a long way, just about anyone can cover the distance.

Courage to get out of your comfort zone and a strong desire to be part of a great crowd are key factors.

Take some of Redmond’s motivation and inspire yourself to run for a cause, whether to lose weight (as was my intention in my initial stages), for fun and personal achievement or for charity – Inspire, The Foundation for Inclusion being the official charity for the Land Rover Malta Marathon this year.

Joining a gym or an athletics club will help you stay focused, as well as earning you more friends.

Time is of no excuse here. Life is too short, so use your time efficiently.

We spend so much time watching television or browsing through the internet so reduce that and simply devote that space to something more worthwhile.

“How am I going to face my gym session, all I want to do is sleep!” was my usual query after a day’s work.

Trust me on this, after completing my session I used to return home late but mentally clear and fully recharged, ready to continue where I had left off in the morning.

To conclude, all one needs is simply a strong heart full of passion and determination, the kind that made Redmond an Olympic icon and a shining example to all of us in sport.

Enjoy your running!