# The Half Marathon Odyssey Continues... In October 2023, my life took an unexpected turn when I laced up my running shoes and embarked on a journey of endurance, self-discovery, and resilience. Over the course of a month, I embraced the challenge of participating in five different running events, including three consecutive half marathons, a 10K recovery run, and a 10 km race. #### [**FCB 10K & UCR Half Marathon: My First Half Marathon**](https://blog.shams-nahid.com/i-completed-my-first-half-marathon-301dcecb2fa3) It all started with a spontaneous decision to join a colleague for a 7.5 km run, just three days before the event. Unable to officially register, I ran alongside my colleague on race day, a novice without racing experience or knowledge of the rules. Surprisingly, I completed the 7.5 km option with a mix of running and walking, sparking a newfound passion. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1699325669675/7a046f4e-6491-41f3-b852-11db413b97ea.webp align="center") This experience motivated me to set a lofty goal: completing a half marathon. Over two months, I meticulously built my running stamina, complemented by swimming and strength training. I also participated in a 10 km race, mastering a run-walk strategy to cover the distance. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1699325674868/616c08fd-aa55-4758-998d-a1b014e91061.webp align="center") In a daring move, just a week before the half marathon, I attempted a challenging 10 km run that left my leg muscles sore. Despite the doubts and challenges, I forged ahead. On race day, despite pain and challenging weather, I completed the half marathon in 2 hours and 38 minutes, adhering to my planned timing and even running alongside a group aiming for a 2-hour and 35-minute finish time. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1699325693244/4c56775c-a983-4953-bc59-5157b43d0aa5.webp align="center") This experience was truly amazing, and it left me hungry for more, with two more consecutive half marathons on the horizon and a dream of tackling full marathons in the coming year. #### [**Raipura Half Marathon**](https://blog.shams-nahid.com/on-the-run-exploring-raipura-and-half-marathon-glory-96a41470b272) October 2023 was a month dedicated to weekend running, and a significant highlight was the Raipura Half Marathon. It marked my first out-of-Dhaka running event and included an exciting night of camping thanks to the organizers. I arrived at the event venue the evening before, indulging in delicious home-cooked meals and swapping stories with fellow runners. After a restful night’s sleep, I geared up for the race. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1699325701507/c888db6e-dd55-4621-8b4c-aa521e0d2754.webp align="center") During this adventure, I had the pleasure of reuniting with friends and colleagues who had embarked on an overnight journey in a reserved microbus. The race kicked off at 5:30 AM, and I quickly joined the “Saidpur Runners,” maintaining their rhythm for a significant portion of the race. Despite the rising sun and heat, I stuck to my plan and completed the 21 km race in 2 hours and 40 minutes (unofficial timing). Post-race, I explored the charming town of Raipura, appreciating the warm hospitality of the local residents and the exceptional assistance from the event’s volunteers. The experience was unforgettable, and I eagerly looked forward to the next half marathon on the horizon. #### [**Kaptai Half Marathon: A Scenic Challenge**](https://blog.shams-nahid.com/kaptai-half-marathon-a-scenic-challenge) Participating in three consecutive half marathons, my journey led me to the picturesque Kaptai Half Marathon in Rangamati, Bangladesh. Nestled in the scenic hill area of Kaptai, the event promised a breathtaking backdrop. The day before the marathon, we explored the area, enjoyed local delicacies, and visited the ‘Lakeshore Eco Park.’ The race day began with a slight delay, but the hilly terrain added a unique challenge. I decided to switch to walking after the first 10 kilometers, covering the rest of the distance on foot. My primary goal was to cross the finish line without injuries, and I achieved that in approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Although medals were not available, the organizers provided wristbands as proof of completion. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1699325716816/e75948bc-5ef7-4e6d-9af1-1279e2214e3a.webp align="center") The Kaptai Half Marathon was an adventure filled with personal challenges that put my endurance to the test. Despite the unfamiliar track and a slower pace, I emerged with a profound sense of accomplishment as the day concluded with a return to Dhaka, cherishing the memories of this remarkable running experience. #### [**RunBangla International 10K: A Refreshing Recovery Run**](https://blog.shams-nahid.com/run-bangla-10k-a-refreshing-recovery-run) Following three back-to-back half marathons, I decided to embark on a 10K “recovery run.” The “Run Bangla” event, boasting 1300 participants, offered camaraderie and complimentary snacks before the race. I challenged myself by running continuously for 6 kilometers and then adopting a strategy of alternating between running and walking. A minor misjudgment of the remaining distance did not deter me, and I completed the 10K in 1 hour and 7 minutes, significantly improving my time. It was a valuable lesson in the importance of precision in running, leaving me excited for more running adventures in the future. ![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1699325729984/53b03569-d4b5-4b05-8df9-a85e41c7d64a.webp align="center") My journey through these running events, from a spontaneous 7.5 km run to consecutive half marathons and a recovery of 10 km, has been nothing short of transformative. It has filled my life with unforgettable experiences, taught me valuable lessons about determination and resilience, and ignited a growing passion for running. #### Race stats: 1. [FCB Mirpur 10k](https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/152790/IndividualResult/gQXH?resultSetId=410011#U78867834) 2. [UCR Half Marathon](https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/153425/IndividualResult/gfYf?resultSetId=411913#U79869875) 3. [Raipura Half Marathon](https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/154501/IndividualResult/gShD?resultSetId=414600#U80460960) 4. [Kaptai Half Marathon](https://www.webscorer.com/racedetails?pid=1&raceid=333673&did=416264&cid=2069097) 5. [Run Bangla International 10K](https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/154984/IndividualResult/gsSP?resultSetId=418637#U80801756)