France-tastic

I've always been a firm believer of the idea that the best way to step onto an across-the-world-flight is in a state of utter exhaustion. So with twenty odd hours of flying looming in a couple of days time, what better way to prepare than by running in my first ever (and quite possibly last) half-marathon!

21.1 km across the streets of Paris, through a bit of rain, far far behind a gang of Kenyans, and waiting for us at the other end, a big pile of bananas and a medal. And then an enormous lunch and a long shower. And then the inaugral bath in our midget-sized bath-tub. And now, legs a bit tired and achy but surprisingly okay.

I placed 14152nd out of about 20 000 runners, which might not sound so impressive, but in the women's category, I placed 1083rd out of 2338, putting me in the top half with a record time (for me that is, obviously) of 2 hours, 5 minutes, and 40 seconds! Hurrah!




Gabin, a friend from work, and I looking brave beforehand!


The Kenyans at the starting line.


The mad dash for the nearest tree about a hundred meters after the start. I think these runners misunderstood which "go" the starter meant.


The winner, about an hour ahead of me!


At least we still got medals!