First race memory: “Seeing the finish in the distance, I got a burst of energy.”

Do you remember your first race? For runners, the first race is a major milestone. Everyone has to start somewhere and the first time you set and achieve that running goal is an extremely exciting event. This spring, we’re asking Canadians about their first race memories. This week, Julie Begeman takes a walk down memory lane and tells us about how her walking routine shifted into running and eventually led to her first half-marathon.

Name: Julie Begeman

City/ Town: St.Thomas, Ont.

Age then: 49

Age now: 52

Race: The Run for Retina Research Half Marathon

What inspired me to run: As a long time Weight Watchers member trying to lose those last 4 lbs (I lost over 101 lbs altogether) I wanted to find something that I would be able to continue to do and enjoy.  I started out walking and joined a gym but walking on the treadmill wasn’t satisfying me. I started to increase my speed and that eventually led to me starting to run.

How I trained: I printed off a running schedule from the internet and I ran Tuesdays to Thursdays and Saturday and Sunday at the gym. Most of my running was on the treadmill at the gym. I was also doing strength training on my arms, back and legs. On my “days off” I ran outside.

What I was worried about: I was really nervous. I almost talked myself out of it several times. I just didn’t want to come in last.

A memory that stands out: While racing I was getting towards the end and seeing “Finish” printed on an arch in the distance, I suddenly got a burst of energy to speed across the finish line. The volunteer giving out the medals placed mine around my neck and gave me a hug and said “Go ahead and cry, you did it.”

Races I’ve done since: I have raced many times since. I try to do at least one race per weekend between April and October each year. Usually that’s a 5 or 10K.