The much-awaited day is finally dawning on us.

Needless to say, many, through discipline and dedication, have worked hard to achieve the required fitness to combat tomorrow’s challenge.

Notably, the more established runners will be seeking an improvement on their previous feat, whereas those novices out there will be embarking upon what I call their first journey of inner self-discovery.

I recall one of John Walsh’s final articles which had depicted the ‘warrior’ theme.

Reading that piece on the eve of one particular marathon day had taken me by surprise but I must admit it went deeply to my inner core.

There was a time in my life when due to the many injuries I suffered along the way, I found myself at a crossroads.

Should I continue with marat-hon running and pursue my fight to improve my times, or should I simply let it go and find alternate means of fitness?

It was at this time that I was coincidentally introduced to a lovely group of people who practised meditation.

My passion for running, always intense and open, was sensed by all and this is when I was led and became acutely aware of the warrior’s path.

The warrior is that person who rises to the challenge with courage and determination.

Despite his fears and demons within, he/she never gives up, but with fortitude pushes hard to the best of his/her abilities to achieve victory.

Tomorrow, thousands of heroic warriors will be at the starting line, doing what we all love to do but definitely facing a test that truly stretches the human hearts.

In an earlier article, I had mentioned how we can control our emotions prior and during the race, how we can shift negative thoughts into positive ones.

Remember, the road is long and hard so how we face it now is also up to each individual.

Therefore, pace yourself well.

A little planning before the race is always useful. Do not dash off in the early stages. Your training runs should have indicated the actual pace you are bound to keep so stick to that pace and try not to be influenced by other runners who might be faster than you.

Alternatively, you can use other athletes as pacers. This can also distract you from any discomfort you might feel.

Like an essay or any literary piece, I always staged the race in three parts – the introduction, core and epilogue.

The first few kilometers are easy and flowing but inexorably exhaustive. Pain creeps in to-wards the second stage and this is when the battle really starts.

The final few kilometres are the most crucial and how we tackle them is of the utmost importance.

Admittedly, as a runner myself this stage also marks the actual start of my internal race and a test to my endurance.

Therefore, allow that warrior spirit within each one of you to come out tomorrow. The battles we fight are only those on the inside. When the body begins to falter, it is only a strong heart and a determined mind that will help you overcome obstacles.

Remain focused. But, above all, live and enjoy the moment.

Good luck to all!

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