Running around Berlin

 

The reason for our trip came around and needed a bit of a plan as the focal point of our trip. Whilst I don't find much value in targeting international runs for full gas, there still needs to be a balance against making it somewhat worthwhile. As part of a Spring mileage plan and building for last couple of races on the home front it couldn't be a complete walk in the park, and so was pleased to find a Lliswerry team mate who has a strong and consistent half marathon record to run alongside. Not sure Leanne felt the same way mind you!

So a serious breakfast of yukky oats and yoghurt after a poor nights sleep certainly gave the annoying race day feel but broadly felt relaxed and looking forward to it. Chrissi less so as she not a fan of the running events and perhaps a phobia that makes the weekend a little less enjoyable for her.  Left her in the capable hands of Chris, and Ian, we always behave better with other people.

Leanne and I caught the subway to the Brandenburg Gate, following the hordes, as all the experienced planners in our party were back at the hotel and leaving a little later. A bit of hanging around but toilet queues, bag drops, chats with other welsh runners all seem to fill the time.  And then it was through the Tiergarten to starting pen and a little bit of a wait.  

Several countdowns later and we were off running the streets of Berlin, very spacious, limited cobbles, and great support. For the first time in a while I actually enjoyed the support and was able to look up and take in the surrounds.  Sometimes the head down to grind out best possible time is not the answer and very pleased I was able to take in the sights and sounds.  

Apparently they offer tea for hydration but it looked fairly unappetising, and the gels a bit sticky. As we got into the last 5K back on the territory I have been walking / running these last few days so all felt very familiar.  The Brandenburg gate as a finishing line is pretty damn impressive, and was for sure up there as the most iconic end to a run.

Sadly the finish euphoria quickly grounded in reality with a call from Chrissi, out on the course around 6 miles and in agony. The other side of running and making the sensible decision to 'do not finish'. Obviously a little concerned for her welfare so caught up briefly with a few friends celebrating their finishes and then walked back towards Alexanderplatz seeing the runners doing their last mile up Unter den linden.  That lifted the heart a little bit.

A bit peckish and ticked off the curry wurst take away which was disappointing but a simple snack.  Got Chrissi a vegan version which I had low hopes of cheering her up when I got back to the hotel, but was the thought that counted! She was in pain and probably should have stepped off the course a bit sooner, we will have to get her home and checked out.

The first bit of negotiating was crossing town to the Hard Rock Cafe to celebrate a birthday of Mother Breese along with several PBS and good performances from across the Lliswerry and associated contingent.  Haven't been in a Hard Rock Cafe for many a year, I did have a T shirt back in the 80s. Loved all the memorabilia, especially the guitair at the entrance carved out of the Berlin wall.

Last night in Berln saw a few beers consumed but not as many as the first night.  Nachos and a tasty burger certainly helped provide the necessary foundation, and so things didn't spiral, but good banter and stories from the master of fajitas himeself ;)  Been good camaradarie on this Super Half, obviously future plans for this series may need a bit of further consideration.  I can see us coming back to Berlin if I get a place in the marathon, I'd probably do this half again and 'go for it' if the opportunity ever presents itself.

Slowest mile of the day was getting to / from the metro on the way home, poor Chrissi really in pain and a reminder how quickly running can go from friend to foe.