The Big W in Greece

Cafe, drink in hand, blurry eyes catch image of a running figure on a lamp post. Focus. 7th Half marathon, 20th September. Must be mad. Too hot. Holiday runs 30 mins max and you're a greasy spot. Forget it. Hallucinating. Another poster tearing at will power. Cocky Londoner bragging about doing the 'Marathon' even as training on the hills, red rag to a bull, sign on in the town hall. Nothing to lose - free entry. 5 days to 'prepare'. Distance ok, still wilderness in the legs. What about heat? Couple more training runs, up to 40 mins and we're off.

20th - yes it's hot and windy, change of mind. Beach today dear? Get on that bloody bus and get it over with! Bussed to other side of island, me and about dozen spotty teenagers. Is this it? Bus took route in reverse - 3 long gradual hills, 1 sun-baked, flat, exposed bit and a steep wee climb at the end to finish in the town square. What am I doing here? Turn the bus around!

Start in shady forest. Local musicians giving it laldy, me + 22. we're off. Keep steady, keep drinking. Motorbikes and cars up and down road dishing out vital wate, banging on horns, shouting, more musicians. Farmers, dogs and goats clapping us on. Actually enjoying this.

2nd climb almost killed guy in front, legs went. Relax and cruise, 3/4 way. Pass kids race, hundreds of 'em. Mutual cheering, more musicians, hit the village. Everybody's out. Brialliant. Final steep climb to square, no probs.

1.29 ... hey not too bad, surprised myself. Grizzled toothless old man shakes hand. Grizzled toothless old lady gives hug. O that the natives at all races could be this friendly! Bar to re-hydrate.

ORGANISER: Not so fast, you're part of the ceremonials

3rd place, whit? Oh ma Goad! Thought 5th or 6th. Embarassed at the fuss. Speeches more speeches, busty blonde singer, Press, podium, kiss from the Mayor. What more could you ask for! How old? Crazy. Back next year? More music and more music. Brilliant day.

Ok truth out, it was nearer 12.5 miles, but it was hot. ok, so the guy who won it (by a mile) is in the Greek Olympic Rowing Team and was over from Athens for a trainig run! Ok, so the last male to finish was wearing football boots! And ok, so it wasn't a 24/24 (brilliant run Chris[Upson], well done) or a Championship decider, but the wealth of the atmosphere in the village that day will long be remembered by this particular old Scotsman!

Posted by Gordon Robinson on Tue 20 Jan 2004 | 1 comment

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