Cardiff Half Marathon 2014

Ever since I did the London Marathon back in April, I seem to have caught a bit of a running event bug.

There's something about them. The prep the night before, the excitement and anticipation at the start, seeing so many people lining the street to cheer on friends, family and complete strangers. Not to mention the medal, t-shirt and goodie bag at the end. 

So a few weeks ago, I signed my friend and I up to run the Cardiff Half.

Looking lovely in our bin bags, pre-race.

Now in hindsight this may have been a bit silly, as aside from two 3 mile runs and Survival of the Fittest last weekend I have done no running at all since the marathon. 

As a result, I'm currently sat with a bag of ice on my knee, because as expected when you have dodgy knees already, they aren't a big fan of suddenly having to run 13.1 miles.

I definitely do not regret it though. Although the atmosphere didn't compare to London, it was still great to see so many people lining the streets and to run through some lovely parts of Cardiff. 

I'd especially like to mention the great hen party and their amazing rendition of Circle of Life and Wonderwall. Made me smile. Also loved seeing all the residents of one of the nursing homes on route wrapped up in their blankets and waving their Welsh flags. Cute.

I crossed the line about half an hour after my expected time, but with no training and the knee I was happy!

Although this happiness was short lived, when I had to walk through the horror that was some kind of mushy banana graveyard. Anyone that knows me will understand this is my idea of hell. 

As this was my only gripe from the whole event, I'm sure I'll let them off. 

Registration is open now for next years event if anyone wants to begin training early!