The wonderful idea??????? all started at a lovely night out with my fellow JogScotland members and jog leaders, where after one or two glasses of wine, I thought I would announce to everyone that I was considering doing a marathon. I thought since there were others that had also had a small aperitif that evening that no one would remember that I had mentioned doing a marathon and that all would be forgotten. However that was lesson 1, there is always someone who will remember something that you had blurted out in a moment of weakness!!!

So since I am not one to shy away from a new challenge, I decided to put it in my new year’s resolution, along with giving up drink and not saying anything stupid at JogScotland social events.

My marathon preparation started with a trawl through the many websites about training, the location of various marathons and comments from others who have participated in marathons. I also got lots of advice, direction and encouragement from all of the jog leaders. I eventually decided on the Amsterdam Marathon, yes the flattest, flat, oh did I mention no hills or inclines!!!

The Amsterdam Marathon was on the 19th October 2008 and I decided because it was my first marathon to go for a 16 week training plan which started on the 30th June 2008. From the start of the year up until June I was running on average 4 or 5 times a week, so therefore around 28 – 30 miles. The Saturday run with JogScotland was really good for keeping my mileage up at 8 – 10 miles. My main aim was to try and maintain good fitness.

Week 1 of my training regime was 29 – 33 miles, which meant 6.0 miles with JogScotland Cumbernauld Group on the Monday, 6.5 miles with JogScotland Chryston Group on the Tuesday, 5.0 miles on my own in sunny Kilsyth on Wednesday, 5.0 miles with Jogscotland Chryston on Thursday, a rest on Friday, 8.0 miles with Chryston JogScotland on Saturday morning and a rest on Sunday. This routine went on for 16 weeks increasing the mileage slightly every week until week 12 where this was my biggest week in which I ran 50 miles in one week. By week 12 you are used to the routine, you have bought yet another pair of trainers, put your toes through so many pairs of socks, that incredibly you manage to complete 50 miles by just taking your time and having some patience.

I can’t say that week 8 through to week 13 of the training plan was easy, but it was my first attempt at a marathon. During the toughest period, I do have to thank all of the JogScotland members and jog leaders for getting me through the routine. It wasn’t that I was suffering any pain, I had no injuries throughout my training period, well apart from some bruised toes and feet, but I blame 7 hours shopping on Oxford Street in London for that. The main issue I had when the mileage was high was motivating myself to run 5 days a week. So I looked forward to coming along to JogScotland to run with others who had a story to tell and would get me through another couple of miles.

I really enjoyed training week 14 through to week 16, because I was excited, everyone was asking me about the run and the mileage was back to between 20 and 30 miles per week.

The marathon was on a Sunday and I flew over to Amsterdam with family on the Friday afternoon. On Sunday, I was so keen to get to the start line I turned up at the stadium two hours early and the stadium wasn’t open. So I wondered around and I got a glimpse of the top athletes going out for a quick warm up. Of course I am standing about in my shorts and t-shirt, freezing to death, thinking oh I not going to do a warm up, I am going to be running 26 miles, that’s enough for one day!

Eventually the stadium opened and all the runners walked to the start line and got themselves into the correct grouping. Walking into the stadium and seeing the crowd did make you feel really excited and for a minute I forgot how long I was attempting to run. The start was like any other race, exhilarating and full of emotion.

In the race, my plan was to take my time, try and enjoy the race and have a good look around me, as I was running through areas I had never seen before. As a Town Planner who had studied the Dutch Planning System I was looking at layout, built form, trees etc, I know BORING, hey what else does everyone go to Amsterdam for????

I must be fair, the first 14 miles of the race were good, I followed a group of people who were averaging between 9 and 10 minute miles. 15 to 18 miles were slower, I was getting dehydrated, lacking sugar and yes wondering why I was doing this!!! Then, THE WALL at 19 miles, it is the first time I have ever stopped in a race, I lost all focus, I was tired and emotional. I stopped, gave myself a good talking to, got some jelly babies out of my pocket, walked for around two minutes and then out the corner of my eye I saw the 4.00hr pacemakers go by. I was determined to start again and keep them in my sight. This was quite easy, they are dressed in green and have huge balloons tied to them. So manage to finish 19 miles, then 20 and then half way through 21 miles my knee started to ache, I couldn’t pick my feet up any more and the knees were getting a pounding. But I didn’t stop, I had come this far, I had all of the focus and determination back, so I carried on. Mile 22, 23 and 24 were tough but at the 25 mile marker there was a much needed water stop. The crowds were beginning to grow and the encouragement for the last mile was superb. As soon as I saw the stadium I was ecstatic, no pain, no tired legs, nothing, I pushed everything to get in through the tunnel and out on to the track. The crowd had doubled from four hours earlier.

As usual when I am finishing a race I am that busy looking for my family and practically walking so that I can see someone I know. Close to the finish line, my parents were bawling my name. What a feeling, before I had even got over the finish line, I thought to myself that was amazing, what an achievement, what’s the next marathon.

On the morning of the race, we all left at 8.00am to head for a Metro Park and Ride facility on the northern edge of Newcastle. At the Metro Station, the platform was crowded with jittery runners and tired looking relatives/supporters. It took three attempts to get on a train and therefore by the time I managed to squeeze into a carriage at my third attempt it was getting close to 9.30am. As everyone got out at Haymarket Station in the centre of Newcastle, there was a surge of people going in one direction, to the start line.

I got to the start line around 10.15am, just in time to hear Bobby Robson (ex England and Newcastle Football Manager) start the race. Managed to see a bit of that on the big screen which is positioned close to the start of the race. Getting into the assembly area was a battle and I ended up at the back of the group. Anyway I was in position and ready to go. I then realised that I was one of thousands in the middle of a duel carriageway in the centre of Newcastle. The atmosphere was electric, there was a great sense of anticipation mixed in with nerves and excitement. Then, the crowd in front of me started to move forward and we were off!! Well not exactly running, but walking very slowly forward towards the start line. It took around 20 minutes to get from the initial assembly area to the start line. The cheer as we all went through the start line was incredible and we all had to smile for the camera.

For the first mile or so there are four lanes of runners jockeying for positions. There were the usual runners who were in a hurry and others who had stopped already to catch their breath. As the route flowed up and down through Newcastle City Centre and towards the Tyne Bridge there was a group song and chanting, everyone was in such high spirits. Approaching the Tyne Bridge gave me goose pimples, as normally I am watching the race on the TV wishing that I could be in the race and more to the point wishing that I was fit enough to take part in such a race. And there I was running over the bridge with the eyes of the BBC on me.

After the Tyne Bridge, nearly two miles into the run, I decided to try and apply my race plan, which was to try and stick to nine minute miles for at least the first 6 miles. The three mile marker was Gateshead Stadium and I was beginning to settle in to a rhythm and a quick look at my watch told me I was at 27 minutes. Great I was on target!!!

Between the 4 mile marker and the 6 mile marker, the crowds at the side of the road began to thin down but the crowds of people that were running the race was incredible. There was very little room to manoeuvre and when you see one person making a break through the crowds of runners, many people tried to follow. I found two reasonable runners to tag along with and kept following them through the crowds. It was a wee game of cat and mouse, but it kept my pace up and I was concentrating on either following them or keeping in front of them.

At the half way marker, a reggae band was playing, there was a drinks stop and a big clock telling you what your time was. I was doing well 58 minutes gone and half way to the finish. There is a slight incline between the 7 mile marker and the 10 mile marker, but just before 8 miles the music blasting out of a bank of speakers was, ‘Can’t stop me now, I’m having such a good time!!’ Yes it was Queen blasting out for all to hear.

Climbing up to the 12 mile marker was the point at which my legs were tiring, my time was getting worse, I was running out of water and feeling quite sorry for myself. However at the top of the incline, with massive crowds of support, the sight of a pub and then a steep downwards section, I was off again. After the 12 mile marker, you see the sea and you know you are nearly there. The last mile did feel like two or three miles because of the tired legs, but this section is very flat and the roars from the crowds allow you to keep moving. The finish line is a wee bit complicated there are different lanes which you are ushered into and your time is recorded. After the finish line it is chaos, there are so many people and the family reunion area is massive. Just as I got the reunion area, the Red Arrows flew over the finishing area, it was a great end to a great race.

The important thing for me was that I enjoyed the race, the atmosphere and the occasion and I also took 2 minutes off my Glasgow Half Marathon time.

My rating for runners running in the Great North Run 10 out of 10. My rating for those trying to get to the finish line to see you complete the run 1 out of 10. My advice is ensure that those who are supporting you head straight for the finish line around 10.00am and then after the race enjoy South Shields taking in a few hostelries as you have a long wait trying to get back to Newcastle.

The training had been good fun. 3 months ago following an article in the Cumbernauld News I ventured along to my first training session at Chryston – alone – Billy No Mates. I didn’t need to worry, every one was very welcoming and i settled in quickly. Such was my enthusiasm that I told everyone about my new pursuit, and shortly afterwards I was accompanied by Jackie (my daughter), Bruce (her boyfriend) and Kevin (a friend). Everyone at Chryston encouraged each other, towards our one goal – the 10K. At home my wife Liz made it quite clear there was no giving up – after all I just spent our hard earned cash on brand new running shoes!

The run was due to start at 10am, so we arrived at Broadwood Stadium at 9.30 in preparation. The usual Sunday breakfast of Bacon Rolls had been banished and I had consumed the obligatory banana instead! Quickly we met up with some of the others from Chryston, and all chatted about the run – everyone agreed time didn’t matter, just finishing is what matters! The morning was dry and overcast, so probably ideal for what we were doing. Some of us were familiar with the route as we had completed a practice run over the course several weeks before. This really helped and although I didn’t tell the others, I was determined to beat my previous time of 62 minutes!

Before setting off i had a quick look around and noticed there was the full range of runners, from complete beginners to obviously some professionals – almost 400 runners in total.

Just after 10am, the run set off initially skirting the edge of Broadwood Loch, quite scenic but lets concentrate on the matter in hand! I linked up with one of the other runners from Chryston and as is my reputation chatted non stop for the first 20 minutes or so. This probably annoys the hell out of others, but it takes my mind off the running! After the loch we ploughed up several gradual inclines (not hills apparently!) and seemed to be making good time. I kept going and deliberately pushed myself a bit faster than i was used to and after about 40 minutes arrived back at the loch. The route then concluded with a 3KM run round the edge of the loch which was a bit disconcerting as it meant running away from the stadium and finishing line rather than towards it. By now my legs were feeling quite weary and it was a case of gritting teeth for the last stretch – the crowd and stewards were great in their encouragement. The final run up to the finishing line was great as the larger crowds cheered us in. – 54 minutes! I was delighted!

At the finish line

Everyone did really well and there was great relief as we all collected our mementos, took photographs and relayed our stories. It really did feel like a great achievement, and I think we all felt quite proud!

We had all achieved our goal, now we can chuck this madness in and relax,…. but hold on, didn’t somebody mention a 10K coming up at Strathclyde Park – Oh! No! have we got the bug?!

Andy Locke

(All Cumbernauld 10k results can be found here)

Jimmy Savile waved us all off at 10.10am and the runners snaked through Glasgow City centre streets. My tactic for the race was as normal, take it easy at the start, don’t let the occasion get the better of me and run comfortably for the first few miles, hoping to do 10 minute miles. The first mile was really slow, at walking pace going over the Kingston Bridge in parts. However it was good to settle the nerves and get the right tunes on my i-pod. The next three miles went by in a flash and believe it or not I was really enjoying the race.

Heading back down towards the Clyde and Paisley Road West, the streets were getting busy with vehicles, pedestrians and of course runners. Paisley Road West is quite a long road which stretches out as far as the eye can see. All I could see were thousands of bobbing heads. The support along the road was great as shopkeepers and residents came out to cheer us on.

Between 4 and 8 miles, the route snakes around Bellahouston Park and then into Pollok Park, all too familiar route if you participate in the ladies 10K run in May. However, the quiet tree lined paths around the parks were welcomed at this point in the race. The trees provided much needed shade from the sunshine and the paths meandering through the green space were reasonably quiet apart from a few thousand runners puffing their way to the finish. The slight incline (not hills) in the park also separated the men from the boys and there were a few who decided it was time to walk. At the end of Pollock Park it is back out on to the bustling Glasgow streets and a welcome cheer from many supporters who lined the streets at this section. Having looked at the map in the race pack before hand I knew if I got to this point then that would be nearly 9 miles, it was a great psychological boost. The tired legs and negative thoughts which were creeping in completely disappeared and the head was down and the march to the finish was on.

From 9 miles to 12 miles it was a carnival atmosphere, supporters at the roadside, the stewards controlling the traffic and giving out water were giving us great support, people giving out oranges, soaking us with water, local radio stations blasting out music, it was great.

Pollockshaws Road is another long street, where again runners stretch out in front of you and at this point I could feel the legs tiring. However I got a welcome boost when I bumped into a few familiar faces from jogscotland and then saw the 12 mile marker, only one mile to go, how hard can it be!

The last mile was horrible, I could hear the cheers from the finish line but it made no difference, the legs were tired, lots of runners had stopped or started to walk. Just when I thought about stopping, a jogscotland member flew past and gave me some encouragement and I was away again. I didn’t catch her but she did help me find some rhythm again and I managed a sprint finish. My watch stopped at 2 hours, 7 minutes and 41 seconds, not bad. Now the countdown and all of the preparation starts again for my next race, The Great North Run!!!

Sharon Marklow

As we arrived we gathered together discussing the route and how many ‘undulations’ there was likely to be. Watching the ‘professionals’ warming up, some of our group began to feel a little nervous and intimidated.

Eventually we were called to the start and were off! Before long we were disappearing up the hill towards Westfield and in next to no time after turning the corner we were plunging back down towards the loch. Around the loch was a relatively flat run and very scenic. All in all it was a very pleasant route and a good evenings running.

In high spirits, our medals sitting proudly around our necks, clutching our goody bags, we left exultant planning our next excursion into the world of road running.

Val McDonald

Congratulations to all of our runners

When we arrived I hurried towards the centre for my first of several visits to the loo! We got ourselves ready – trainers on, numbers pinned, skip cap on to shield my glasses from the imminent rain. Black clouds were looming on the horizon. Only twenty minutes to go now and definitely looking much brighter; the sun was beginning to break through. I wonder, should I ditch the hat?

I started to warm up, a gentle jog along a narrow path, busy with many other joggers/runners doing exactly the same. I could see the bridge sitting menacingly on the horizon. If you have driven over this bridge you may be under the impression that it is reasonably flat. I can assure you that you are completely mistaken.

At 10.30am the race started. The first 3 to 4k gets you from the community centre to the bridge. It starts off downhill and round the corner and then it starts uphill passing North Queensferry railway station. After a while you are rewarded with another longish downhill before you start to approach the bridge and then it’s uphill for quite a long way. As I got towards the top of the bridge I was getting very hot and thinking it would soon be much easier. But no! As I hit the top, so the wind started to gust, blowing straight into my face. Working hard I aimed for the turning point where you turn off the bridge, take the road under and then run back up the other side. And this, all in the name of FUN AND ENJOYMENT!!!! As I began running back up the other side I was greeted with words of encouragement from a friendly marshal, “You’re nearly there. It’s a downhill finish.”

Yes, it was a downhill finish but there was still another 2k uphill to do first! And to top it all, the wind I was expecting to help me on my way was still in my face even though I was now travelling in the opposite direction. Strange!

Would I do this race again? Definitely! Last year’s race was acclaimed as being one of the most scenic and memorable in the Road Running calendar and this year the race was at full capacity several weeks earlier. All in all, it was a very well organised event, with lovely scenery and a friendly atmosphere. Oh and I nearly forgot to say about the magnificent array of food back at the community centre. I’ll be back next year.

Val McDonald

However after parking I made my way to Cochrane Street for the shuttle bus and there I met some of my jogging buddies. Soon the nerves changed to excitement and at times almost hysteria as we laughed, joked, supported and encouraged each other before the big event.

Linda (on the the right) with some other jogscotland Chryston runners

Getting off the bus we paid a final visit to the toilets and made our way to the Green assembly point (Green means you have a predicted time of 65-90 minutes for the race). Being my first race I wanted to take it slow and steady – well really I just wanted to finish. When we arrived at our assembly point in Nithsdale Road there was just a mass of women as far as the eye could see, I had never seen so many women in one place before – not even at the January sales. Music erupted and the warm up began. We danced through some aerobic workouts, sang, clapped and cheered till the start time. Way, way, ahead of us we could hear the race had started. Slowly and steadily we inched our way forward to the start line and the mats which would activate our chips. I glanced down several times to ensure mine was still there – is was.

Hands held high, we smiled at the cameras as we crossed the start mats. There were a lot of supporters around at this point. I do think the people in Nithsdale Road deserve a huge thank you from all of us as they are virtually imprisoned in their houses until thousands of us have jogged passed. I don’ t know the collective name for a crowd of women joggers – anyone got any ideas?

We are still smiling and talking together at this point and wait is that the sound of pipes I hear? – yes we have just completed our first kilometre. The atmosphere and my buddies have helped; I am beginning to feel relaxed and confident. Remember your weeks of training girl, deep breaths, relax those shoulders and just keep going. I didn’t wear a watch so I had no idea of how I was doing but the kilometre markers kept on coming, 2, 3, 4, 5 – half way and into Pollock Park. I have lost my jogging buddies at this point but among the crowds of running women it is no surprise that we got separated. I was feeling pretty good until we got to the dreaded ‘hill’.

Everyone had told me the route was fairly flat until the hill in Pollock Park, which although not steep appeared endless. I was about to see for myself. Now what did Margaret tell you about running hills – oh yes – small steps, lean into it slightly, slow your pace and make those elbows work for you. I kept it going and I have to say (quietly, because I don’t want to admit it) it was not that bad. You see when Margaret and the other jog leaders take you round some of the training routes around Chryston you come across some real hills.

Kirsty in yet another photo

On Dumbreck Road now and passing the 9 kilometre mark, I am beginning to feel a little tired now but with only one more kilometre to go nothing is going to stop me. The body is a little weak but the mind is kicking in now, I am determined to continue. The spectators lining the route thickened as we approached Bellahouston Park and the finish line encouraging everyone with their comments. Crossing the finishing mats I felt tired but excited and a little emotional. I had completed the course in 1 hr 17 min. Ok, so it’s not exactly world shattering but I felt very proud of myself. I had slow jogged all the way round at a steady pace and look forward to my next 10K with the knowledge that I can do it.

I met up with some of my buddies in the park and we did some gentle stretching for a couple of minutes. I felt a bit of a fool doing this but the next day it made it worthwhile. I suffered no aches or reactions to the race. However, a work colleague of mine was ever so slightly stiff the next day. When I asked if she had stretched at the end of the race she said ’stretch – no, I went straight to the pub for a burger and a beer’. Now tell me, who did the right thing?

I have to give a huge thank you to all the jog leaders and my jogging buddies at Chryston who helped and supported me through the race and the weeks of training beforehand. It was all worth it and as for another 10K – BRING IT ON.

Linda Bruce

Apologies to Linda for taking so long to add this to the website – Adrian

However, arriving some 6 hours later, after a long leisurely lunch, the sun was still shining. We checked in to two very comfortable & friendly B&Bs, walked round the town, sampled the local hospitality and fuelled up at the pasta party held as part of the event. We then decided on an early night and, after a bit more hospitality, headed for bed.

Both races set off from the town centre at 10.30am, and with the weather still dry, but breezy, the 500 runners set off, up the hill and out of town. After a few hundred metres, those doing the half marathon kept running straight ahead, while I, and the rest of the 10k runners, went right, heading back to the coast.

Catriona (2 from left, bottom row) and the rest of the jogscotland Chryston runners

The run was probably the most scenic one I’ve ever taken part in. The green hills and twinkling sea worked wonders, helping me to pick up my feet and distracting me from feeling too knackered. The route took us round the harbour and along the bay before heading inland a little, through a small housing estate and then back – downhill, hurrah! – into the town and along to finish at the sports centre. It was a lovely run, not least because the course doubled back on itself in two places. I had initially thought that this was not ideal; but in actual fact, getting the opportunity to pass your friends, whether in front of you or behind, and exchange a few words of encouragement, was great! The race marshals too, were fantastic. I don’t think I managed to pass one without them clapping or offering a friendly comment. Combined, the two things made the run feel cosy. Hearing my name called out as I crossed the finish line added to the feeling and a sweaty hug from one of the girls made it complete. Happy and sweaty, it was time for a cup of tea and a Danish.

Catriona McDougall

Thanks to Margaret Sinclair for her expert skills in organising our trip, and for recommending those Danish pastries. The best I’ve ever tasted!

Congratulations to everyone who went, and notably to Gemma who came 3rd in the 10k (thanks to all those vodkas), and to Cathy, 3rd in the half marathon with an amazing PB.

(Click here for race and “danish pastry” photos)

This is one race where the term undulating was more than stretching the truth.

Registration was between 9 and 10.30, so to ensure I could get a good parking spot and avoid the crowds I was there nice and early. I sat and listened to some of the coverage for London Marathon and while they were sweltering in +20 degrees our temp was a very chilly 10. The sky was thick with cloud and it was drizzling – perfect running temp!

The organisers had laid on stalls for selling raffle tickets, baked goods, juice and fruit. We had the use of the schools Games Hall toilets and shower rooms and the queues were moving quickly – although I must be getting used to this racing malarkey cause only had to visit loo twice – a new PB!

Headed to the start and it was very crowded, there didnt seem to be enough space between the expected finishing times so everyone was was a bit squashed. Then we were off. We did a loop of the roundabout at the school and then out onto Roman Road. The club runners were away very fast and as usual I was nearer the back of the pack (where the fun is!) The road very quickly turned into the ‘undulating’ route that we were promised and from there it never halted to twist and turn and rise and fall before us I lost track of the number of inclines. I was running beside another woman for a wee while but she left me by about 4k, met up with a couple of jogscotland ladies (dont know which group) who have entered there first half marathon in Elgin this year. There was a great camaradarie amongst the runners near the back and the route was our main cause of hilarity!!

Got to 5k and the turning point and I was knackered and the thought of going back really felt too much – but my car was back at the start so had to get there somehow. at this point I was at just above walking pace. I gave in several times and walked up some of the hills. My legs had turned to lead. The runners around me kept passing each other time and again as we all seemed to take turns in walking then running. At 7k there was a water station and they had kids from the Primary School handing out bottled water and they were hilarious, shouting encouragement and telling us the finish was just round the corner – aye right.

There was great support along the route, mainly from people (!) – but we did have a herd of cows watching us as well – god they stink! Finally I could see the houses of the village and knew it wasnt too far, and sure enough I came up to the high school and roundabout. There was another woman running beside me now and she said ‘do you fancy a wee race sprint for the finish’ to which we both started laughing and somehow found the energy to belt it over the finish line together. Hysteria had now set in. I completed the race in 1hr 8mins and 21secs – a new PW!!

Once over the finish line people from the Co-op were carrying big platters of cut up oranges and I have never been so grateful and I kept grabbing one whenever they passed me. Got my t-shirt – which you only got if you had paid for the race in advance, and a medal plus a wee goody bag with a chocolate cereal bar in. Heard a bloke behind me complaining to the organisers regarding the comments on the race website that the route would be suitable for beginners and I have to say that I agree with him, it was a very tough course and if you were just starting out that could put you off.

I am very thankful that our routes on Tuesday nights the previous few weeks had been hilly and round the country roads, otherwise I dont know how I would have managed it.

And I think a wee jogscotland outing to this route would be beneficial for us all – although I am sure on that night I cant get a babysitter!!

Shirley Ann Duncan 

We arrived on Saturday late afternoon and having picked up our running numbers etc. found ourselves ready to experience the Saturday night attractions of Antwerp. As many of you will know, Belgium is famous for (amongst other things) the quality of its chocolate and beer. Although I have been known to sample a chocolate or two in my time I am probably better known for my passion for the latter of these two products. Possibly a difficult evening lay ahead and this proved to be the case as the very welcoming bars of Antwerp did their utmost to lure me into indulging my interest in the science of Belgium brews. However, with 26.2 miles looming the following morning and temperatures of 25 degrees C. forecast, I managed to restrict my intake to some moderate tasting, and it was off to bed at a fairly respectable hour.

The morning of the marathon brought sunshine, clear blue skies, and, as predicted, unseasonably high temperatures. As the residents of Antwerp prepared to do whatever Belgian people do on a sunny Sunday morning they were confronted with the sight of myself and around 1000 other allegedly sane individuals preparing to run 26 miles (or 42 kilometers in Belgium money). As the starters pistol sounded at 10am, it was already very warm. it was clearly going to be a day for cautious running.

The first 5 miles or so are run on the west bank of Antwerp’s river, the Scheldt, and pass through some attractive residential suburbs before crossing under the river to the east bank on which the city centre and larger part of Antwerp is situated. This crossing is done via the mile long Waslaand Tunnel which briefly provided an unusual running environment as well as offering a very welcome period of shade. On emerging back into the bright sunshine, I passed the 10K point still feeling O.K. and felt I was making fair progress. The route was predominately flat and the event seemed well organised with excellent traffic management and water stations at every 5K. I continued to run steadily and reached halfway without too much distress. By this time we had passed through the historic centre of the city (to which we would return at the finish) and were now out in the eastern suburbs where many of the residents had come out to cheer the runners, with some even setting up impromptu water and food stations.

I had passed the 35K point (22 miles), which marked the turn towards the city centre and the finish. Although tiring I managed to make steady progress and entered the last mile or so to the sound of cheering crowds. A last effort brought me through the finish line on the Grote Markt (Antwerp’s main square). Having received my medal, T-shirt etc. it was time to quickly head for a shower. After all, I had a hangover to organise………….Cheers!

Enjoying a well earned drink

N.B……I would definitely recommend the Antwerp Marathon as an enjoyable alternative for a spring marathon. The route is almost 100% flat and although being predominately urban does take in a couple of local parks as well as passing through some attractive residential areas where local people offered enthusiastic support and encouragement. If a full marathon isn’t your thing the event also includes a 10mile and a 5K run. The city of Antwerp, particularly the medieval centre, with it’s magnificent cathedral and town hall, plus it’s overwhelming selection of restaurants and bars, proved to be an excellent choice for a weekend break………..Maybe see you in Belgium next year.

Sam Green