One of the main highlights of the running year for West Coast Runners (WCR) is the TUI Cyprus Marathon Races. The 28th edition of the TUI Cyprus Marathon took place over the weekend of 7/8 March in Paphos and consists of a Marathon, Half Marathon, 10Km and 5Km races. It was an excellent start to the running season for WCR who had participants across all four distances.
The 5Km Sunset Race took place on Saturday 7 March, at 4pm and the weather was ideal for running/walking. There were over 1,000 participants who either ran or walked the 5Km, many who took part were supporting St Michael’s Hospice Charity. WCR who competed in the race were Alan Lovejoy, Christine Bell, Rita Leyland Suzie Burke and Kathy Kaiser. Kathy was part of the MC Physiotherapy Peyia team who either walked/ran in aid of the charity.
The other three distances were held on Sunday 8 March under blue skies and warm sunshine. WCR who successfully competed in the 10Km race were, Di Henry-Ward, Claire Rinkes, Karen Bedford, Jo Parry, Linda Hesketh, Ruth Poole, Viv Couldrey and Jean Cadman. This was Jean’s first race in Cyprus and she has written about her own personal experience, “Having moved to Paphos 15 months ago I decided that having run races in several different countries, many years ago I needed to do a race in Cyprus. So I decided that the TUI 10Km was the one and Paphos is a great place to run or do a race. The organisation was first class from collecting my number to race day with water stations, music (to keep us going) and supporters on the way as well as the finish where we received our medals, a rose for the ladies and refreshments and fruits. Thank you to the organisers and volunteers who made this a memorable day.”
Sarah Holden successfully competed in the Marathon, this was Sarah’s 8th Cyprus Marathon and she states, that, “somehow it just keeps getting better every year ….even if my times keep getting a little slower! I really love how the course has improved over the years, and it genuinely is one of the friendliest Marathons I’ve ever run. Along the way I ran with loads of different people, which made the miles fly by. A big shout-out to all the amazing volunteers at the water stations, especially those marshalled by members of WCR (my running club). The support out there really makes a difference! Honestly, nothing beats that last mile of the Cyprus Marathon – the crowds, the cheers and everyone shouting you home to the finish. It’s such a brilliant atmosphere and the perfect way to end 26.2 miles. Already looking forward to coming back next year for another go!
Mark Slatter successfully competed in the Half Marathon; Mark stated, “that it was a picture perfect day for the race. Clear blue sky, cool air temperature and warm sunshine. Having spent Thursday and Friday helping with registration it was good to see some of the new acquaintances at the start line. The Half Marathon was well attended despite the over dramatised press coverage of issues down at Akrotiri. Indeed it took me over 2 minutes to get over the start line. I would love to say that the great atmosphere at the start line and around the course plus the lovely weather meant a personal best time was on the cards but that was not to be. Still I was most grateful for the well-spaced and well manned water stations. I am sure the lure of that cool beer waiting at the finish line spurred many on for a final push for the line. All in all a well organised and most “enjoyable” event.”
Well done to all WCR who competed in the TUI Cyprus Marathon Races!
Finally, none of the above would happen without the wonderful volunteers. Once again, many of our West Coast Runners and Walkers and family members volunteered to help. Preparing the envelopes and helping with the registration, marshalling on the 5Km Sunset Race and manning 3 Water Stations on the Marathon route. A big thank you to you all!
Afterwards we all celebrated the day with a meal and drinks at Phils Grill and Bar, Peyia. The meal and service was excellent and I can safely say we all had an extremely good time!
We are not just about competing in races, we run all year round in our beautiful island of Cyprus, on the coast, in the picturesque country side on roads and trails in and around Paphos. You would be more than welcome to join us on our schedule runs, running with a small friendly group of runners. So come along and give it a go! We look forward to meeting you. See our Facebook page for the latest monthly schedule or contact Di on 97761015 or Gerry on 99926291 for more information.
West Coast Walkers
Don’t forget we also have our walking group that meets every Monday morning. The walking group is increasingly popular and is open to anyone who enjoys walking, meeting like-minded individuals, experiencing walking along the coast and exploring in and around the Paphos area. We welcome all walkers whatever your ability, young and the not so young! There is something for everyone to enjoy. Please see the West Coast Walkers Facebook page for meeting places and start times.