For most people, running a marathon falls into two categories – those who attempt it, or those who gawk at those who do it.
In the South African context I think we have sometimes lost perspective.
So many of us train for Comrades, Two Oceans or ultra trail runs that we seem to gloss over the achievement of running a marathon.
Marathon running takes guts, determination and steel resolve to dig deep when the body is tired.
So to all those that attempted their first marathon on Sunday at the Hillcrest Nosa marathon well done!
No less than 27 Dolphins ran the Hillcrest Nosa half and full marathon on Sunday.
It was an outstanding day out, although the hot and humid conditions were always going to make the second half of the race a tough proposition.
The course is a double lap and winds through the leafy suburbs of Winston Park, Hillcrest and Gillets.
The last 7km are the toughest as you have a steady climb to the finish in the heat.
The club gazebo was up and runners rested their weary legs under the shade while enjoying cold beers (thanks Brad and Delia) and bacon and egg rolls (thanks Barry, Debbie, Woza and Juan).
Sometimes your race goes according to plan, and other times it doesn’t.
Long distance running is a journey of training well (sometimes on tired legs), experimenting with what to eat and drink on the run and having a race strategy that works for you.
Most importantly, it is about getting back on the road and trying again for the next PB (personal best).
So to all of you on this crazy journey towards Comrades, Two Ocean or whatever goal you are chasing, pop into the club if you would like some nutty training partners or advice.
Don’t forget entries for the Durban City Marathon on March 1 are open.
The entries for the Deliotte Challenge taking place on May 1 also open this week.
The Deloitte Challenge consists of a 42.4km marathon, 21.1km half marathon, 5km fun run and a 40km cycle race.
This is the last qualifier for Comrades so get your entries in early at www.deloittechallenge.co.za.
Happy running.
Sarah
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