Training Log Archive: dkonotopetz

I woke up at 5:45 am., I had a Cliff Bar and I made my way the short distance from my accommodation by metro to the stant area at Gwanghwamun Plaza. I arrived at the start area just before 6:30 am. and I got ready for the race. As I was taking my time getting ready I did not realize that the baggage deposit closed at 7:30 am. and I had to rush at the last minute to hand over my bags and the trucks were leaving in quick succession. The elites started first at 8:00 am. in this IAAF Gold Label Race and the 88th edition of the oldest marathon in Asia! This was followed by the "A Group" at 8:05 am., which I was in (or runners with a record under 3:40). I made my way down the road off the start feeling strong and ready to give a good effort. The temperature was 2°C, 87% humidity and a light 4 km./hr. north wind. I quickly hit the first U-turn point at 4.5 km. I was now running along the south side of the beautiful Cheonggyecheon Stream starting at the 7 km. mark and I was feeling great. I took a gel at the 10 km. mark and I continued along to the second U-turn point at 12 km. and then I headed back along the north side of the stream. I took a gel at the 15 km. mark. Just past the 17 km. mark I turned right away from the stream and then another quick right. The spectator support was very good and it was motivating. I passed the halfway mark in good condition and I was maintaining a good pace. I took another gel at the 25 km. and 30 km. marks. At about the 32.5 km. mark I needed to take my first walking break and then I continued along, moving slower then back at 20 km. But I was hopeful that I would be able to maintain a slow run combined with some walking if absolutely necessary. I took a gel at the 35 km. mark. Then I started climbing about 20 meters between 35 and 36 kilometers. At the top of the Jamsil Bridge I had a great view and to my right I could see the Olympic Stadium (1988) where the finish line was located. I took a final gel at the 37.5 km. mark and then I went past the Lotte World amusement park on my right. I needed to take some more walking breaks and then I powered on. At this point the temperature had risen to 12°C with partly cloudy skies. Now I could see the stadium! I entered and wow it was a great feeling to be on the track of the Olympic Stadium and take almost a full lap before the finish line. I placed 1,406 overall. Great marathon and a nice tour of the city!

Route: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7049811
Results: N/A