It’s been almost a year since I begrudgingly took up running. When I first started I couldn’t image ever even enjoying running, never mind travelling down to London to take part in an official race with thousands of other women.
But enjoy it I do, even though I still find it exhausting. And on Saturday I made that trip to London to take my place on the Boutique Run starting line. I ran my 5k in 39 minutes – slow but steady is my technique. I didn’t stop because ‘the sun was in my eyes’ or ‘my leg felt broken’ (two of my regular excuses for stopping and walking), but just kept going until I hit that finish line (then collapsed in a deck chair – handy).
The race itself was fantastic – there’s something really motivating about running alongside so many other women – but it was the after party that impressed me most. There were hot showers, hairdryers, products, dressing tables and full length mirrors for the post-race beautification, food and champagne for sustenance and live music for entertainment. There were hair and makeup experts on hand too, although I missed out on a makeover because I was too busy at the canapés table… ahem.
Bangs and a Bun once told me it’s notoriously difficult to get women to participate in sports – it’s very much a man’s game. She’s blazing her own trail with her amazing Bangs on the Run team, and Boutique Run is doing great things too. The event gives women the motivation they need to get out there and, like Race For Life, there’s a real sense of sisterhood and support. I’ll definitely be back next year and from now on, I require a glass of champagne and a blini after every run. Darling.
The warm up
Proper medals
Crossing the starting line
Goody bags filled with makeup, food and drink – not a pantyliner in sight
Valiant runners celebrating with a manicure
Would you take part in Boutique Run? Have you already done something similar? What motivates you to get up and get out there?
