It’s not about winning trophies…

…but that certainly helps!

Last weekend saw our annual venture to a European destination to run 10k (or a half marathon, if you prefer) with a fabulously hot and cheerful few days in Cyprus. After three years of visiting Madrid, this was our first time in Cyprus. It’s always a leap into the unknown when you’ve not done a particular event before but boy oh boy! We needn’t have worried. It could not have been more different to Madrid; much MUCH smaller event, hugely friendly, all within walking distance, beautifully hot and our team of 10 varied from speedy half marathoners to first-time (and let’s be honest TERRIFIED!) 10K’ers.

It was in August of last year when we decided to come to Cyprus this year (on realising that Madrid was on the same day as the London Marathon this year, which Ros will be running) and I suggested to Julia that it would be a great target for her to train for 10k. She didn’t believe that she’d be able to run it, but booked her flights anyway “whether or not I actually run”.  There were many sleepless nights and whatever reassurance I tried to offer, the nerves were there and so was the anxiety.

It turned out that this was possibly the best ever option for new runners as a) there were lots of walkers (so coming last was never going to happen), b) it was an out and back route, so you kept seeing people you know – always a bonus! and c) it was SUCH a friendly event that you couldn’t help but enjoy it.

This was just as we were about to leave the hotel – spot the anxiety on Julia’s face! 

And then just before we got into the pen on the start line:

…and then with her incredible SPRINT finish!

And the all important medal 🙂

Personally, watching Julia sprint to the finish line was the best moment of my whole weekend (and there were many top moments!) One of the first things she said after crossing the line was “You were right! I needn’t have worried! I loved it!”  She was already talking about coming back next year….  #ilovemyjob

As if that wasn’t enough satisfaction for one race, we then discovered that out of our team of 10, 3 of us had won trophies! #firsttimeforeverything

Wonderful, wonderful weekend! And did I mention that there was free beer on the finish line?! #seriously

Cyprus – see you next year!