Risk-taking and Pushing Through Pain at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon.

I dedicated myself to training for the Toronto Waterfront Marathon for over six months. A race that means more to me than just the miles I run. Toronto is my second home, and running here isn't just about fitness; it's a testament to who I am and what I believe. Running is my therapy and my release. As an entrepreneur, staying fit is a personal commitment, a reminder that pushing limits isn’t just business; it’s life.

The Toronto Waterfront Marathon isn’t just any race;

·?????? Held every year in October, it’s Canada’s most prestigious road race, a celebration of endurance and human spirit.

·?????? It also acts as the nation's time-trial event during Olympic cycles.

·?????? Runners can choose to compete in the full marathon or run a half-marathon

·?????? This year, over 40,000 people from 75 countries were in attendance.

·?????? It was established in 2000 and is sponsored by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

For me, the anticipation of this race had been building all year. I have been practicing and training mentally and physically since April, but everything changed one month before the marathon. I sustained an injury to my left foot during training, forcing me to cut back on my training right when I needed to be at my peak.? My coach, who has guided me through every stride, told me a week before the race that I shouldn’t run. She advised me to rest and prepare for another marathon in California to allow my legs to heal. With more pressure on my right leg to compensate for my left leg injury, my right knee was also affected.? I was not convinced and remained hopeful that I would be better by the day of the race. Then, the day before the race, my podiatrist confirmed my worst fear: I was advised to forfeit the run entirely because my leg needed more time to heal.

Despite the professional advice and the voices of reason around me, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I needed to run. Months of hard work, discipline, and anticipation were weighing on me. I believe that life’s greatest moments are found when you take risks.? As an entrepreneur, I face and take daily risks, which are ingrained in my lifestyle.? I see risk-taking as being present in all facets of life, and I have honed my risk-taking skills. There was a 50% chance that I could further injure myself and create the need to extend my recovery period. But to me, 50% was enough of a chance of being successful. I was prepared to embrace whatever outcome awaited me—triumph or setback.

So, I made the decision: I was going to run! I immediately got into my race running mindset & protocol around 6 pm; I started drinking much water, went to the gym for a full body stretch, ate a special diet for running, walked for 45min, spoke to my support network, had a race strategy session with my coach and had a good night’s sleep.

This marathon wasn’t just for me. I dedicated this run to my mother, who left this world two years ago. Next month marks the anniversary of her passing, and I wanted to honor her memory with every step I took.

During the race, for every step I took, the consequent pain reminded me of why I was running. At different points, I doubted my ability to finish and even questioned my decision to take on the challenge and possibly cause long-term injury to my leg.? However, I continued to push, taking solace in the fact that I was running to prove to myself that I could go through hardship and to commemorate the anniversary of my mother’s passing. I was motivated by my sheer will to succeed and by the familiar and strange faces who cheered on me as I swept the tracks.

As I crossed the finish line, my heart filled with joy—joy and a sense of relief. I had done it! I had persevered and defied my restriction by completing the race.? I felt the overwhelming satisfaction that comes with success.? My goal was to finish, and I did.? I maintained a consistent pace of 5.12 minutes per kilometer.

This accomplishment belongs to everyone who encouraged me—my sister and brother in Cameroon, who were my mental anchors throughout this journey. My coach, who prepared me for this race. The Toronto running clubs are Lululemon Toronto Running Club, BlackToe Running Club, Night Terror Run Club, and others.

I especially thank all my friends and well-wishers. Your support kept me going. This marathon confirmed one of my greatest lessons: risk-taking isn't something to be feared. It reminded me that perseverance, consistency, and bold decisions can pay off. It’s not about what the world says you can or can’t do. It’s about believing in yourself and being willing to take responsibility for the outcome, no matter what it may be

For now, I’m filled with immense satisfaction and gratitude. Although I was in tremendous pain after the run, my injury did not worsen.? I am currently nursing my legs back to health. I will certainly return for future marathons, but this one will remain unforgettable.? I ran the race from my heart and for a particular purpose.

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