I participated in the 10 km run organized by Vibha on 9th of October, 2010. The run was organized by Vibha with the objective of fundraising for underprivileged children in India.
To start with I have never participated in any marathons, half marathons or 10 km races ever before. I got interested in this race as it demanded only a couple of hours from my daily schedule in return for better living prospects for many disadvantaged children in India. In fact if you look at some of the statistics below, you will be surprised how much less it takes to make a meaningful contribution to someone's life.
$120 can give quality education to a child for a whole year
$50 can facilitate the rehabilitation of a severely mentally handicapped child for an year
$40 can sponsor the non-formal education of a child for a whole year
$35 can keep a child safe from many fatal diseases by providing him/her complete immunizations for an year
$30 can provide a child with all the educational materials he/she needs for an year.
So, I set up the target of raising $1000 by running 10 km. I am fortunate to have friends who are extremely generous at heart, and with their support, I have been able to raise a significant portion of my target.
On the race day, I left early morning at about 7 am as the venue was located an hour away from my house. The parking lot was full by the time I reached. The Houston weather totally cooperated with running participants, it was just perfect. The place was thronged with people at the registration desk. I picked up my packet, attached the timing chip to my shoes, and prepped up myself for the run. The atmosphere was enthused and quite energetic. It just felt great to be amidst so many people gathered for a common cause of supporting underprivileged children. The enthusiasm and optimism of people was contagious and within no time, I felt my nervousness vaporizing out. The race started at 8:30 am. The 10 km trail involved two 5 km loops. By the time, I finished 5 km (approx. about 30 minutes), I was exhausted and felt like quitting at the finish line for 5 Km. But, the support and encouragement of my friends, and the objective behind the race kept me going. I had to drag myself to complete the 4th mile marker, and hence forth, the completed distance fueled the rest of my race. It was a great experience.
I finished my 10 km race in 57 minutes! I was amazed to beat my own record and it is indescribable in words how happy and satisfied I felt to run a few miles for realizing millions of dreams. It would not have been possible without your encouragement and support.
Hats off to all you guys there!
For all those who did not have a chance to visit my fundraising page,
The fundraising campaign has been extended to 20th November. Show your support and make a difference!
Visit my fundraising page: Make a difference
