My Unexpected 5K Journey at Garmin Run 2025

The journey to the Garmin Run 2025 began, not with focused training, but with a deeply regretted 3:00 AM alarm. My inner debate was fierce: Should I stay in my warm bed, or honor the corporate obligation that paid for this slot months ago? After preparing breakfast for my eldest son, I was on my way.

I arrived at the venue at 4:35 AM via public transport. Instantly, I was clueless. It had been so long since my last big race that I’d forgotten the logistics. I just followed the stream of fit-looking people toward the main stage, catching a glimpse of the 10K runners starting their determined jog. I also observed that their bibs were already on their shirt. Que horror, my bib didn’t come with safety pins so I asked the organizers if they have spare ones and thankfully, they did. Imagine if they didn’t, I’d be waving my bib like a loser waving a white flag (huhu). I also noticed that instead of a runner belt (I’m not even sure if that’s how it’s called), I was carrying my phone and money in a dumpling bag like I was just on my way to the market to buy bread. Haha! I was obviously so unprepared for the run.

The Great 5K Reveal

The reason I was chill for most of that morning though was due to a moment of serendipity three days earlier. I had signed up blindly months ago, fueled by some distant, pre-training optimism. I truly couldn’t remember which distance I’d chosen, and the thought of being unprepared for a full 10K let alone 21K had been stressing me out.

Then the race kit arrived.

I looked down at the bib, and there it was, printed clearly: 5-Km.

A wave of profound, utter relief washed over me. Thank goodness for my past, less ambitious self! That accidental, lower-distance choice had saved me from an unprepared 10K attempt. It instantly turned the race morning from a daunting challenge into a manageable, fun social event.

The Charm of the 50-Minute Effort

With my anxiety gone, I could actually enjoy the atmosphere. I did the necessary warm-up with the running coach and gave a nod to the cheerful, balloon-carrying pacers.

At 5:30 AM, the fireworks signaled the start, and I joined the river of people. I gave the 5K an honest effort, adopting a strategic pace that included a mix of slow jogs, determined walks, and, yes, a little limping when necessary. It wasn’t about speed; it was about the experience. It was a very relaxed run that I even managed to smile at the series of cameras posted along the way and even told the cheerers every kilometer that they’re cute with their noodle balloons – some were elderly people. So cute!

Fifty minutes later, I crossed the finish line! Getting that medal and finisher’s kit felt amazing. The victory wasn’t in being fast, but in showing up and successfully completing the distance I accidentally chose.

The truly ironic twist? I had so much fun that by the time I was having breakfast with my colleagues at a nearby coffee shop, I actually wished I’d done the 10K!

It was a day I stumbled into, but one that provided a great boost for my physical well-being. The biggest takeaway? Sometimes, the universe (or a forgotten online registration) knows what’s best for you. Next year, though, I’m choosing that 10K myself!