Think of Switzerland and you probably picture snow-capped
mountains, cuckoo clocks and chocolate. The 15th edition of the Zurich marathon
took place on April 09, 2017. The event comprises 3 races, the
Marathon, a Team Run (4x 10km) and the City Run (10km).
 | |
| Neil had a "brilliant time" |
At 08.30 there wasn't a cloud in the sky as we set off,
followed in precise Swiss timing by the Team Runners (08.37) and the City
Runners (08.43). 10,000 runners in total, with 2,300 marathoners and not a
deep-sea diver's suit in sight.
The course comprises 10km around the city of Zurich followed
by an out-and-back route along the lake to Meilen. Elevation is minimal and the
scenery is breathtaking with the mountains overlooking the lake. Allegedly, 70%
of runners achieve a PB and I couldn't fault the organisation. The only minor
annoyance was the Team runners whizzing by on fresh legs on changeover.
I crossed the line at 4.18, but that's not why I do it. What
drives me is the energy and emotion of these challenges - the sense at the
start that anything is possible, the view on the way round and the sense
of accomplishment and celebration at the finish.
My only question is why so few
runners run this incredible event. Maybe it's the typical Swiss 'low
key' approach to sport (everyone just does it) or perhaps the eyewateringly
expensive cost of accommodation and food. Whatever, I'm please to have had the
opportunity to experience this hidden gem.
| Position | Time | Name | Category | Grading | ||
| 1531 | 4:18:20 | Neil Emerson | MV55 | 57.59% |
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