I began running in 2019, just before the pandemic. At first, it was slow progress. When I finally completed my first 10K, I asked myself: What’s next?

That’s when I discovered the World Marathon Majors, New York, London, Berlin, Tokyo, Chicago, and Boston.

In 2021, I applied for both New York and Chicago lotteries. Weeks later:
✅ Chicago 2022 – Accepted
✅ New York 2022 – Accepted

The problem? I had barely gone beyond 10 km in training. Running two back-to-back majors was chasing two rabbits. You won’t catch either.

So, I postponed New York to 2023.

That decision taught me something important: having a clear goal, a plan, and focus makes all the difference.

👉 GPA: Decide your GOAL, make your PLAN, and keep the ACTION alive.

By 2023, the plan was set. Flights booked, family ready, and belief stronger than training. My longest run? Just 25 km.

But on race day, something magical happened. From the very first kilometer, the New York crowd lifted me by cheering, clapping, calling our names, holding posters. Their energy carried me step by step.

That’s how I completed my very first marathon in New York.

The biggest lesson?
“Never stop. Just keep moving forward.”

Those 42.2 km weren’t just about crossing a finish line. They were about focus, resilience, and proving to myself that it’s never too late to chase something big.

👉 GPA: Decide your GOAL, make your PLAN, and keep the ACTION alive.