Blog: Why the Campus 3k became my highlight of UoB Xtra
Written by student Dan Laczkowski
A year ago, I was a fresher living on the Vale, enjoying all the additional summer activities put on as part of UoB Xtra! I had been keeping a lookout for all the available activities to maximise my summer experience, and so I signed up for the Campus 3K.
I’d never trained any style of running before, other than once spontaneously completing a 5K Park Run for a personal challenge, and any cardiovascular fitness I’d gained was long gone!
Considering my experience, I thought the Campus 3K was the perfect opportunity for me to revisit running given the welcoming and empowering atmosphere, as it’s also not as competitive as a weekly 5K.
I wanted to complete the 3K as another personal challenge, not to mention the free t-shirt that would come at the end of it (look out for how you can get your hands on a limited edition t-shirt this year to celebrate the University's 125th anniversary)!
It’s worth mentioning that anybody can participate in the 3K, as I saw many completing it casually, holding a conversation while maintaining a slight jog. Some others even put on heavy costumes and completed the 3K in outfits that are uncomfortable to walk in, let alone jog or run in!
Race day
On the day of the 3K I was quite excited, so much so that I jogged from the Vale for a warmup, definitely not because I forgot my bib and realised halfway on the walk to campus in the anticipation...
I took multiple walking breaks to catch my breath and let my feet rest in my unsuitable footwear during the run, with volunteers on the sidelines always cheering me on. During the final stretch, my friends surprised me at the finish line, which was nice to see, as they greeted me with proud smiles and kind words. I still remember hearing that I “crushed it” despite not being the fastest, as completing the 3K alone was the key accomplishment for me.
While the 3K was over quickly, it was hardly the end of the day for me, as many other events were being held during UoB Xtra, including a surprisingly challenging climbing wall which I then took on with my shaky legs and friends, followed by the opportunity to relax with an outdoor cinema screening.
I was lucky enough to bring back a few spare Lucozade drinks from the 3K sponsor stand for my flat mates at the Vale, as well as a memorable t-shirt for collecting my bib number early and completing the 3K!
I’ll be back again this year, equally as unprepared as before. I think the spirit of the event is simply showing up as you are, no matter your ability. The day is so much more than a race or a competition to be the fastest (unless that’s what you prefer it to be!)- it’s an atmosphere of volunteers and spectators cheering you on as you walk, jog or run by.
So whether you’ve run a marathon before, or if you don’t own a pair of running shoes like me, don’t hesitate to sign up now as entries close on Tuesday 3 June. See you there!