I joined Twin Peaks Walking Group in August 2008, after hearing about it from my Sister-in-law. I was quite nervous about going the first time, as it was so many years since I had done any real form of exercise, except for a few pretend sessions at the Gym. However, I really enjoyed that first week, although I did not find it that easy, the other ladies were really friendly and gradually over the following weeks, I began to find it easier and that I was walking quicker and for some of the walk I was actually keeping up with the ladies at the front.
After a few weeks I started hearing ladies talking about doing the Moonwalk in London, a 26.2 mile marathon at night! I asked them what it was all about and I thought that it was something I would really like to do, but felt sure in my mind that I would never be able to do it. I received lots of encouragement from a lot of the other ladies and my family, and I began to think that just maybe I could do it.
I ended up entering the Moonwalk and immediately terrified myself with just the thought of it. However, the training went well, although not always easy and it did not take long for the Moonwalk date to come around. The big day arrived. I had been told by some of the other ladies who had already done the Moonwalk what to expect, but that did not prepare me for what I actually saw on the day. The crowds and excitement was more than I could have imagined. I think, looking back, that I felt more nervous than excited, not really believing that I could actually do it.
I did it though and walked with two ladies that I would now call friends and we helped and supported each other all the way round. The atmosphere was fantastic and I did not feel as tired as I thought I would staying awake all night. The encouragement we received from people on the route really helped. I cannot describe how relieved and how proud of myself I was when I got to the finishing line, actually achieving what I had previously thought was the impossible. I realised at the end that I had actually begun to enjoy the whole event.
I was on such a high afterwards, that I came straight back and registered an interest for next year. I feel I needed to experience it again without the nerves and just enjoy the whole thing.
I cannot thank the organisers of Twin Peaks enough for their help and encouragement and for the different walking routes that they organise week after week.
Sharon Marsh