I have to admit it was quite painful getting up at 5.30 am this morning. But I had commited myself to the morning run. But it doesn't help if you have signed up for a half marathon that is supposed to take place in 3 days. It was still pitch dark when I run the first meters towards the airstrip of Haydom. The air is still cool and the village quiet and sleepy. A few dogs cross my path. You have to be careful not to stumble over the many stones that are constantly in your way. I am thinking of all the Hyenas that are night active .... and there are many here around Haydom. In the distance the roosters crow and greet the morning. The first stretch goes quite well and I am quite confident. Not so bad for the first time at 1700 m altitude I kepp thinking before the track in front of me turns into a steep uphill slope of 30%. I notice how my breathing becomes really painful. While  I am starting to wheez I crawl up the mountain and am glad when I finally reach the fence of the visitor center. From here the road is more flat. The remaining distance I have then a few schoolchildren who accompany me jogging. This is a real motivation booster. Done and soaking wet I arrive back at the hospital. My first 8 km done. I hope that can still increase until Saturday.