The Race

It's my turn I have been waiting all day for this moment
Walking up to the line, I can feel the adrenaline coursing through my veins
I can hear the blood pumping loudly in my ears
Bending down I stretch my body till it shakes with the effort
Swallowing on a dry mouth I take a deep breath, this was it

I lined up with the rest of them letting the eager ones take the front
Standing at the back of the crowd I stood poised......ready
And then they were off sprinting ahead
Jogging at the back I gave them the time, they would tire soon
I knew this course well, the hills would start soon.

One by one I passed them, each a tiny triumph
And then I was ahead and gaining pace with each step
I can feel the tension leave my body with each breath
The sweat drips down my back soaking my shirt to my skin
I can feel the strength in my muscles, my calves become taut

The wind blows a cool breeze against my face
I can feel the cramp start deep down in my belly
Holding my breath for three paces I let it out again
I do this over and over till I feel the speed kick in
I feel like I've been running for hours

I can hear the cheers, the encouragement
Thank Goodness it's nearly over
My legs have started to turn to jelly, I'm struggling for breath
And then there's the finish line, I can hardly contain my joy
Today I was last over the start but first over the finish line.