G'Day!
I have been quiet for a few days, maily due to racing yesterday. No PB this time, and missed narrowly by 3 minutes. The course was not as flat as described, with rolls over the last 12K with mild bridges that taxed my legs. I was on-course on a 3:20 pace when I cramped on the 36K mark, on the hamstrings. Thankfully, with two sprays of Cramp Stop (a product recommended by Coach), it subsided within 30 seconds. However, it affected my mental and physical fitness. The last 6K taxed many runners, with one runner lying on the roadside, attended by para-medics with oxygen and IV drip.
The 21K was flagged off at 6.00am and marathon at about 7.00am. Thereafter, the 5K fun run was flagged off later. There was no congestion, like the one's often experienced in Singapore.
The weather was perfect for racing, cool and cloudless. However, the flat and straight route was deceptive. The pacers - from Pat Caroll Online - led with absolute precision and finesse from start till end. They were reported to be ahead by 30 seconds from the predetermined PB time, by ushering the runners in with enthusiasm. If only the pacers from Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon would be so talented and disciplined to do likewise, we would benefit from these motivating reference points. Top marks to the Gold Coast Marathon organisers for doing this part spot-on!
The friendly aid-stations (water, Gatorade/Endura sports drinks and gels) were spread every 2.5/3K apart, so if you missed one station, you could get another drink 500 metres down. Music filled the air at intervals, with life bands and musicians. Screens with pre-recorded announcements came on once you crossed the timing-mats at specific intervals. You could see your family or friends present personalised messages to you. This was another plus point!
The last 270-metres was meaningful as you have a carpet leading you in. The race-announcer called me in, and it felt like an Ironman triathlon.
There was a post-race recovery area, after which you exited that area with your race-medal and race-tee. Another field welcomed you with a live-band on-stage. A large screen showed live footage of the television broadcast of the race. The prize-ceremony was clear, direct and relevant. Suncorp Bank gave out slippers, mats, soft candy, sunscreen, and sun-hats for finishers and their families.
It was a good hit out yesterday. I would strongly recommend this race for a memorable marathon, and PB attempt.
More reports and photographs shortly. Thanks for your patience.
I have been quiet for a few days, maily due to racing yesterday. No PB this time, and missed narrowly by 3 minutes. The course was not as flat as described, with rolls over the last 12K with mild bridges that taxed my legs. I was on-course on a 3:20 pace when I cramped on the 36K mark, on the hamstrings. Thankfully, with two sprays of Cramp Stop (a product recommended by Coach), it subsided within 30 seconds. However, it affected my mental and physical fitness. The last 6K taxed many runners, with one runner lying on the roadside, attended by para-medics with oxygen and IV drip.
The 21K was flagged off at 6.00am and marathon at about 7.00am. Thereafter, the 5K fun run was flagged off later. There was no congestion, like the one's often experienced in Singapore.
The weather was perfect for racing, cool and cloudless. However, the flat and straight route was deceptive. The pacers - from Pat Caroll Online - led with absolute precision and finesse from start till end. They were reported to be ahead by 30 seconds from the predetermined PB time, by ushering the runners in with enthusiasm. If only the pacers from Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon would be so talented and disciplined to do likewise, we would benefit from these motivating reference points. Top marks to the Gold Coast Marathon organisers for doing this part spot-on!
The friendly aid-stations (water, Gatorade/Endura sports drinks and gels) were spread every 2.5/3K apart, so if you missed one station, you could get another drink 500 metres down. Music filled the air at intervals, with life bands and musicians. Screens with pre-recorded announcements came on once you crossed the timing-mats at specific intervals. You could see your family or friends present personalised messages to you. This was another plus point!
The last 270-metres was meaningful as you have a carpet leading you in. The race-announcer called me in, and it felt like an Ironman triathlon.
There was a post-race recovery area, after which you exited that area with your race-medal and race-tee. Another field welcomed you with a live-band on-stage. A large screen showed live footage of the television broadcast of the race. The prize-ceremony was clear, direct and relevant. Suncorp Bank gave out slippers, mats, soft candy, sunscreen, and sun-hats for finishers and their families.
It was a good hit out yesterday. I would strongly recommend this race for a memorable marathon, and PB attempt.
More reports and photographs shortly. Thanks for your patience.
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