On Monday 26th October, I took part in the 36th SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon. Having persuaded my children that they would like a weekend in Dublin before travelling up to the north to visit their grandfather, we flew to Dublin on Saturday. We then had a couple of days sightseeing (perhaps not ideal preparation for running a marathon). Leaving the kids to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and more sight seeing, I joined the other 15,000 runners at the start line. There were staggered waves which were dependent on your predicted finish time. In typical Irish fashion it was raining. Well fine drizzle!
The course was undulating and began by heading north of the River Liffey and then into Phoenix Park ( the largest park in Europe according to the previous day’s tour guide). It then recrossed the river at mile 10 and meandered around the south of Dublin to finish close to the start at Merrion Square. The Irish are renowned for their friendliness and the support was incredible. There were free hand clappers at the expo, and the noise along certain sections of the finish was deafening. The final two miles of the route was lined with spectators.
Overall the atmosphere was fantastic. The overall winner was Alemu Gemechu from Ethiopia in 2:14:02 and the first woman Natalyia Lehonkova finished in 2:30.
I always find miles 16 – 20 very difficult in a marathon, and so my second half was a couple of minutes slower. Still I managed to finish in 3:21:02, which I was happy with. I was also 4th in my age group.
I would very much recommend this marathon. Dublin is a great city. I even managed to be reunited with my kids with no trouble at the finish. I’d also recommend the city tour bus. I’ve taken many city tour buses, but never before with live commentary from the drivers; many of whom were really funny. Great craic!
Tara