Last month was one of the busiest for West Coast Runners. We had our usual club sessions which were well attended, and we welcomed our friends from the UK Sarah Holden, Wendy Osborne and Dom Garvey who were back in Cyprus for some late summer sun. It was great to have you running with us again. We had a good turnout for our penultimate handicap session, but the main event was the 40th Athens Marathon, The Authentic which took place on 12th November. Our team really did us proud, after all their hard work, keeping to their well-planned training schedule they certainly made it a run to remember. Here is what they had to say about their experience.
Christine Bell – For me this was a must do race. It is well known as one of the world’s toughest and it certainly lived up to its reputation! It was a fantastic experience, and I am glad I did it. Although I found it extremely hard, and my body is complaining it was well worth it. It definitely wasn’t about the time for me, I was so happy to get over the finishing line.
Claire Rinkes – I enjoyed the whole experience, starting with the months of training and the support from running buddies. It was exciting going to the village of Marathon for the start and the spectator support, dancers and music was wonderful. Although exhausted, running into the stadium for the finish was wonderful and gave me the extra energy to get over the line.
Diana Nash – This was an excellent race. I really enjoyed it and wanted to end my marathon racing where it all began, namely 490BC. It will certainly be a very memorable race for me and such an amazing experience and a great atmosphere. I was really happy with my 5-hour 7-minute time which was well within my target time.
Neil Bithell – This was my first marathon and what an experience, from getting on the coach at 6.00 a.m. to the start through to the finish it was incredible. 21,000 runners from 80 different countries took some organizing but all went well. I put everything into it and got over the finishing line in a time I was really happy with, 4.36.38 – the training certainly paid off!
Vivienne Couldrey – This was my first marathon and I feel so lucky to have been able to compete in this 40th anniversary marathon. It was an amazing experience competing with so many amazing runners and supporters, especially our WCR support team. So much encouragement on the route certainly helped me and all the runners achieve their goals.
Sounds like the team and their supporters, Roy Bell, John Rinkes & Karen Bithell had a great time in Athens. Well done to you all – next stop Paphos Marathon in March 2024?
What inspiration these five are, however we are not all marathon runners so if you are new to running, returning to running or on holiday & you would like to join us at any of our sessions please take a look at our schedules which can be found at the top of our Facebook page or call Christine on 97757159 or Gerry on 99926291 for any further information.
Happy Running Everyone!
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 points and start time.
