Personal best: Vladimir Suprunovich, Technical Lead at Trimpo, gives his account of running 42km in Lattelecom Riga Marathon
In 2018 Latvia celebrates its centennial and all the events held this year are, in one way or another, dedicated to the anniversary. Events for this weekend were beautifully organized for Rigans and guests of the city. On the morning of Saturday, 19th of May, the center of the city and “11.November” embankment were ready for participants of various races. Family 4,2 km race, races for kids (300 and 600 meters), along with variety of entertainment for kids all over the embankment. Result — a great vibe throughout the weekend. And the weather was awesome too!
When I went to the Expo to get my number and t-shirt for the race, I met so many people of different ages and nationalities, and I realized that tomorrow, during this race, coincided with the national holiday, I will be running in a great company. Everybody was taking pictures and smiling.
This was my third marathon — my goal was to beat my own record and run this race in 3 hours 20 minutes. After months of training, this race was my “exam”.
Sunday, 20th of May. Race starts at 8:30 am, I’m up at 6 and start my day with light breakfast.
At 7:50 we are at the starting line already. The city is all about the marathon today, crowds of people are moving toward the starting line. Runners are jogging in place or warming up.
The embankment is decorated with flags, toe-tapping music is playing, quadrocopters are flying, the presenter greets the runners in different languages.
I’m going to my starting segment and the countdown begins — 10, 9, 8, 7,6,5,4,3,2,1 — and we are running!
The route stretches through the center of the city and partially in the outskirts. We pass 3 bridges, run a bit on a cobblestone road (that bit really wasn’t fun), we are feasting our eyes on the beautiful city of Riga and getting support from spectators.
After the 40 km there is barely any strength left, but I need to pull through. 41st kilometer — everyone’s screaming — Go on, go on, 42nd kilometer — I’m almost at the finish line. Only 195 meters left — how can I not speed up with the last ounce of strength and even draw ahead of people running in front of me. Finish!!!
I’m very excited, this is my personal record — 3:19:38. Watch deceitfully shows 42.63 km, no idea where those 430 meters came from.
I finally get to catch my breath and rest, while watching other runners get to the finish line and receive their trophies.
Afterwards — back to the hotel, shower, dinner and back to Moscow. While on my way I come across other runners, we’re smiling and congratulating each other. Running is so great. And it’s an activity for any age, gender, nationality, we are all connected by our love for running, and it really makes you feel like you’re a part of one big family. And this weekend Riga hosted this family reunion.
See you on the next starting line!
