The longest run

After the Sundown debacle in May 2009, demons appeared, casting doubts to fall before my feet.

Running is intertwined with my sense of well-being. Since that black day, I have been building up my bruised confidence. I whispered a goal to myself - to complete one more marathon and make a total comeback.

A series of 10k runs through the year was achieved. Crossing the finishing line in those races added a measure of confidence within me - that my back could withstand the pounding.

The final month leading to the SCMS was derailed by a succession of bacterial infections. The antibiotics were strong and I was forced to rest. My running programme became impossible to follow, and worse still - physically I did not feel robust.

Though this marathon isn't my first, yet on the eve of the marathon, my nerves were fraying. Setting a target time was impossible, because I did not know for sure if I could even last the distance.



So I prayed. I prayed for health, and the wisdom to know - during the race - if I could press on to finish the race, or to be courageous enough to bow out if my body cannot handle the rigour.




I turned up at the start line, under the glittering Xmas lights on Orchard Road. In the midst of the countless runners, I kept my thoughts above the incessant chatter.

Thoughts ran clearly through my head - take it easy, enjoy the marathon, this is your chance for redemption.



Filled with optimism - having self-talked my way into a confident position - I took on the race.




By the 7km mark, my running came to a shuddering halt. This is the price for falling sick in November. Regardless, I kept moving.


The hours were long. As dawn broke, and the sun became scorching, I refused to wither. In fact, the more I became laid back - the better I felt.

This marathon is not one for me to set PBs or outdo my previous performance. The only success indicator for me is this - to complete the 42km without feeling any damage from my back.



A sense of euphoria overwhelmed me when I crossed the finish line. My body, though racked with creaking muscles and pulsating blisters - felt fine. There was a backache - but nothing more. In this I rejoiced. The medal & the t-shirt were just a bonus.


Most importantly - now I know I can do it. Hopefully, this will spur me on to continue running in the coming years.



For now, it is time for a well-deserved rest. In my current school, I have nothing but gratitude and thanks for all the goodness I have experienced. Next year will come with it new challenges, but I am certain that they can be overcome.

For my ex-students in Fajar, you are very much in my thoughts. I hope you are all doing fine.

To the Peer Leaders & Basketball players - continue to be a blessing and inspiration to the people around you. The School has taught you well - whether it is through leadership camps, basketball training sessions or day-to-day lessons - so you must be like living waters, and impart those positive values to your juniors and peers.

Finally, a quote that never fails to stir me up:

"Our greatest glory is not succeeding, but rising every time we fall."