This past Sunday I completed my 4th BMO half-marathon. Voted Vancouver’s best, the BMO Vancouver Half Marathon is an extremely fast course. From start to finish this race is top rate, taking you through different neighborhoods on your journey to the Finish Line.
This year I had the honour of documenting my experience for #TeamOasis taking over @OasisCanada Instagram story.
Read on for more of this year’s race review including some exciting personal highlights.
The half Marathon started at 7am on Sunday, May 5, 2019. The Start Line was located inside Queen Elizabeth Park, the race features a fast downhill start, and finished with an incredible downtown finish line stretch on West Pender Street.
HOW DID I DO?
It wasn’t my personal best, despite this I am happy with my time of 2:00:19. Considering that I was taking photos and videos through the race and only seconds slower than last years time I am happy.
Personal Highlights:
I had the incredible honour of running 21.1km a with thousands of amazing people. People of all different shapes, sizes, ages and fitness levels.
I witnessed:
– People endure and persevere.
– A man kissed his baby that was cheering on the sidelines.
– Mammas get cheered on by their kids.
– Friends supporting friends.
– Strangers supporting strangers…..
I laughed, and I cried, It’s SO MUCH MORE than a run! #humanityisbeautiful .
As always Crossing the finish-line is always an overwhelming and emotional feeling. Having John Stanton present my medal again this year was the icing on the cake.
ultimate Highlights
By far the biggest highlight was staying to cheer on the Marathoners. One VERY important one being- my fiancé Adrian who finished his first Marathon #42for42 in typical Adrian style. A truly incredible moment to witness.
Anyone that has participated in a race of this nature understands the training that it required, but for those of you that aren’t familiar:
For both of us to train for our respective races it took MONTHS of juggling nap schedules, birthday parties, chores, family events and holidays. It was stressful and hard. Sometimes we had to say no to things we wanted to do. We worked together, supporting each other to ensure we both got our training in.
I LOVE this video! It is a celebration of success. A testament to the hard work, sacrifice, discipline, and perseverance that goes into finishing a race of this nature. It also an example of the euphoric feeling of crossing that finish line. In the words of Nike…..Just Do It!
Team OASIS:
Being able to capture my experience for #TeamOasis was an honour. I was able to enjoy the run at a whole different level and perspective.
I enjoyed the Oasis Canada booth at the fitness expo and especially appreciated it after the run. They were giving out juice boxes, and samples of their morning smoothies in Strawberry- Dragon Fruit, and Mango- Passion flavors. Which are both delicious by the way.
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH REGISTRATION
- Race bib with built-in timing chip
- Technical t-shirt
- Commemorative finisher medal
- Free Health, Sports & Lifestyle Expo
LIKES:
- Route – The fast downhill start and the high energy finish line have always been highlights for me.
- Fitness Expo- The atmosphere is positive and everyone is so excited.
- Technical Shirt- A technical shirt is provided which makes for a great training shirt for future race as well as an economical addition to my teaching wardrobe.
DISLIKES:
- Hills – I was able to settle into a comfortable rhythm until the tortuous Stanley Park hills.
WOULD I DO THIS AGAIN?
Absolutely see you next year!!!!
