I did it!! I started running in Oct 2023 and have kept up with it pretty consistently, but I am not naturally inclined to athleticism, so it's an uphill battle for me. I've run a half marathon and a few 10 milers since then, but I decided this year to try to improve my speed even if it's just by a little bit (previous best 5k was around 33mins). That sub 30 minute 5k might seem so easy or natural to others, but I have literally been training for this result and I am so proud of myself! I chose a plan and stuck to it and actually got the result I was chasing. My heart rate is a tad terrifying to look at lol and I could definitely feel it during and after the race. Now my goal is to get it to where running a 10 min mile is my "easy pace." I have no idea how long that's gonna take me, but I'm looking forward to achieving it.
I also think it's funny how happy I am about this result and it happened the same weekend of the sub 2 hour marathon (two of them at that). I am celebrating just like Sawe even if we are celebrating two insanely different achievements!