On one of the hottest days this year in Paris, Andrew and I set off at 8:45ish on Sunday morning with 32,092 other people to run the 26.2 miles round Paris. 31, 169 finished.
It was quite an experience, even pre race, finding where to drop the bags, queuing for that last minute toilet stop, moving to our starting areas, loud music, people cheering, runners preparing and then .... nothing. More waiting while the thousands tried to move half an inch to the start line.
The first 10k was jammed with people (to be expected in an event like this but still a shock) and it reminded me of how the traffic worked in India. See a slight gap and go for it, at the same time as everyone else, no backing out! At about 10k, i finally felt like i got into my stride and had the space to run how i wanted to. From 10k to 25 k, i felt good, in control and running around 7 - 7:45 min miles and then the heat got me.
From 28k to 33k, i felt pretty shattered, had used my last energy gel and had started to feel a bit of cramp in my left leg. However, i got some drink, fought the masses for half a banana and limped on to the finish in 3 hours 33minutes and 12 seconds.
I was so glad to start the race with Andrew and gutted not to see him at the end. It was manic and there were cramped up bodies, ambulances and a few smiling people all along the finish avenue. Well done Andrew on your third marathon and i'm not sure if I ask him again next year for another event, what the response might be, but i know we are really thankful to you all for your kind words of encouragement and support.
My highlight of the run was seeing the family by the side of the Seine. Seeing Sam dressed as superman and my father in law shouting GO ON WEST HAM! kept me laughing and amused.
I will update soon with a total amount raised for the HIV orphans in Zimbabwe, but until then
God Bless,
Rob
