SITE RTW / SITE Runs Ireland - The Challenge Continues!

Belfast City Marathon, 5th May 2008

The sun was shining on Belfast upon arrival and I couldn’t help but get excited about the task at hand. It had been a year since my last visit to Belfast and so much has changed since then. The architectural wonder that is Victoria Square has opened and is home to some of the biggest names in retail and although not full finished, is a welcome addition to the city of Belfast. Monday morning, the 5th May and with the weather looking good for the day it was time to make my way to the iconic City Hall building on Donegall Square, which was the race starting point. Joined by thousands of fellow runners the atmosphere was incredible if not a little tense as many runners were taking on the marathon challenge for the first time!

9am and we were on our way, taken out of the city in a loop to re-enter the city 6miles later. Beautiful stretches along the Lagan, running through historic districts, I could not help but feel that I was experiencing all elements of Belfast both past, present and future. As the race neared it’s end, a lap of Ormeau park was on the cards and spectators were out in full force showing their support. 3Hours, 52minutes and 23seconds later, I crossed the finish line and with the adrenaline pumping, everyone became my new best friend as the adventure was relived, sore muscles were stretched out and some serious “carb” and H2O loading was done!

The rest of my Monday consisted of eating tasty food at the Grill Room and Bar to the back of City Hall, taking a drive through Stranmillis and seeing the beautiful Queens University before unwinding in the ueber-funky Mal Maison Hotel on Victoria Street, my HQ for my stay in Belfast. This hotel exudes understated coolness with friendly, casual service throughout. With emphasis on minimal lighting and plush decor, the hotel is the ideal choice for a Belfast break with a dollop of luxury. I experienced Mal life and I know I’ll be back for more!

With two races down and two to go, all attention now turns to Cork City in the south of Ireland, where I will attempt my third marathon on the 2nd June. To make things a little more interesting, there will also be a Custom Ireland relay team entered who will go head to head with a relay team from the Clarion Hotel Cork. Watch this space for the outcome of the “It’s a Corker” relay challenge!

Big hello to Lee from Portadown running on behalf of Tiny Life and all those who participated on Monday the 5th May making this a must attend marathon event. Well done Belfast.

KL