Beautiful Barcelona!
Today was the Barcelona Marathon and my first time doing this race. I was out to compare to Seville Marathon which fast became my “go to” Spanish Classic. It did not disappoint. The route was fantastic (the height of the buildings eased the heat from the sun which was a pleasant surprise) and the organisation and crowds fantastic. The finish is spectacular and if you want a marathon which takes in some great architecture, this one is for you.
We stayed close to the start which meant my usual pre race toilet routine did not involve a portals queue – well worth the premium. The race is pretty straight – lots of long roads with switchbacks, meandering through the city. The only time the crowds fell quiet was on the stretch by Barcelona Beach. The wind picked up at that point too so bunching in a group proved beneficial. The finish line was amazing, passing under the Arc de Triomf.
I learnt a few lessons today which I will take with me to Boston. Firstly, I’m not young anymore and training on the trails around Tunbridge Wells is not sufficient for road marathons. Secondly, I seem to be losing my art of pacing, going out too hard and paying the price. Finally, strategic toilet breaks are much more beneficial than emergency ones. I was happy to get 2:43 considering how I was feeling half way but hopefully more to come either in Boston or London.
All in – great race, great route and brilliant weekend.
Mark Mellor