Last Sunday in February, this was 33rd marathon race since 1986 with 970 runners plus 3700 taking part in the half-marathon. It was a warm day, so later runners were also dealing with the midday heat, even more trying after torrential rain, floods and freezing weather on the Friday before.
We did our best to cheer on and encourage the stragglers along the last 2K, along with a local Scouts troupe handing out wet sponges and playing stirring walking songs, and a local brass band at Maneol Island encouraging runners with happy, New Orleans tunes.
It is a great atmosphere, especially at the finish line, well organised with medical facilities on standby to deal with casualties. Major roads were closed off, including bus routes which confused everyone hoping to board at Sliema. As our bus driver said, “Don’t ask me, I’ve no idea where I am supposed to go now!”
This was an impressive event, and well done to everyone brave enough to take part (which didn’t include us…).
