First race memories: “I thought I’d never run for a full minute, let alone 5K”

This spring we’re getting a little nostalgic and looking back on Canadian runners’ memories from their first ever race. We’re asking people of all running abilities and racing backgrounds to write in about their experience. This week, Sheena Howard tells us about racing her first 5K and sticking with her grueling training plan in order to work up to the distance. Her hard work paid off!

To tell us about your racing debut, email sinead@runningmag2.wpengine.com.

Name: Sheena Howard

Age then: 37

Age now: 38

City/Town: Cavan, Ontario

Race: 2014 Peterborough YMCA 5K

What inspired me to run: I was propelled into running by stressful life events. Running came into my life one day during this period and it saved my life.

What I was worried about before the race: I was worried I wouldn’t run the whole race. I thought I would never be able to run for a full minute, let alone a full 5K.

A memory that stands out: I remember rounding a corner and the wind off the lake was really strong. While many runners slowed their pace, I didn’t. This memory stands out for me because I had trained through snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. I thought I was crazy for doing it! It paid off though. I was so new to the sport and I had no idea just how much all that training would pay off in the long run.

My time: 33 minutes

How I trained: With persistence. I had told myself for years I wasn’t a runner. The first time I ran was in 2013. I ran for one minute and I ran so hard that I threw up. I realized I needed to start off slow and be persistent and humble. I committed to running three times a week. I trained through rain, sleet, snow storms, hot sun and freezing temperatures. I’d run where no one could see me and started slow. I remember allowing myself to cry and whoop at every kilometre I could run without stopping until I could finally run 5K. I wasn’t worried about my time or how many weeks it took, I was just focused on adding more minutes of running– as many as my body would allow.

Races I’ve done since then: 2014 Running Room Resolution Run, 2015 Yonge St 10K