Testing The Latest Brand In Running Shoes
TTOM Training Run #2
Total Sports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM) training runs are back on. Prepping the runners for the upcoming 56km Ultra and the 21.1km half marathon. The event took place Saturday 18 January 2025.
My Morning Routine
My alarm was all set for 04h45 am. I prepared my breakfast shake and my hydration fluid, also laid out my running gear and shoes. This way I would not have to rush should I decide to press the snooze button one too many times. This I knew I would do as it is a habit I have yet to get rid of.
Last Minute Rush
The morning, I was up and still had time to have a quick wake-up shower! My routine went off smoothly I'd like to say, but no! I had finished 10 minutes later than planned. Time to request an Uber. I prayed I wouldn't have to wait too long for a driver to accept my trip. It was now 05h35, I was supposed to have been on route to the rendezvous point. Well, no point in stressing about the time. The Uber driver arrived at 05h45 and I was on my way.
Event Organization and Sponsor
The event was well organised. Joma, the official Technical and Apparel Sponsor of the world-renowned Two Oceans Marathon gazebo was set up. Runners who were interested in trying out the latest running shoe had this opportunity today. I fitted on my size UK 7 and felt a bit nervous, being an Adidas Boston 12 fan, I did not know what to expect while running in a new brand.
Excitement and New Shoes
With the excitement of being amongst my running friends, I marked myself present for the 22km run. Time to get moving. Hmmm.. the laces felt a bit tight, however I did not want to stop to retie it. Onwards I continued, ignoring the discomfort I was feeling. I slowed my pace as I realised how silly I was to test the shoes on a long distance. Joined up with my friend and we stayed together for 3kms. By then my feet had settled in the Joma R-2000. I wore the Soweto Marathon 24 Special Edition pair, which was awesome, as it matched the colors I was wearing. I left my friend as she felt the need to walk and gave me the go ahead to continue, giving me the opportunity to pick up my pace. By now the shoes were comfortable, I ran with ease, forgetting it was my first time wearing the Joma R-2000.
Strategy and Fatigue
The second half was going well as I worked on my strategy doing 9 minutes / 1 minute walk (9/1).
I felt my calves were a bit tired and took a quick walk. I knew this was due to me, running 22km in a complete new shoe and a brand unknown to me. The shoe itself was feeling so good on my feet. No hotspots, it was breathable, my feet were not heating up as it does in Asics Gel - Cumulus which I also train in.
My Overall Experience
Overall, I had a blast, really enjoyed my run, especially as my feet felt so comfortable in the Joma R-2000. I will definitely be investing in the Two Oceans Special Edition once it's released. I was disappointed to not have won one of the Two Oceans Half Marathon entries which were in the lucky draw. It's always been my dream to run this iconic event the day it takes place on my birthday. Well, I will stay positive, and join every training event with the hope of winning an entry.