We signed up for the 10k event associated with the Dubai Marathon this year and, because the start area was right outside our apartment, we were able to roll out of bed and head right to the start on Friday morning. What a great course this year, along Emaar Blvd and then through Zaabeel to the World Trade Center area. The rising sun casting a lovely glow on the scenery and the blue skies creating a clear backdrop for the skyscrapers. James felt fantastic, pushing the pace at the end and even saying that he could have gone for another few miles (and would like to do the Donut 10 miler with me in November, noted!). We got our awesome tshirts and medals and then enjoyed the luxury of a short walk back home, from where we bought the paper and then stood out on the patio as the Ethiopian winner of the marathon crossed the finish line.
Sun hasn't even come up yet and there's a flurry of activity at the start area. We're about to head down ourselves.
We get in with the crowds in the start area, and admire the costumes.
Sun starts to rise
About 10,000 people did the 10k, apparently
Officials fire a gun..
And we're off!
From Emaar Blvd, turn onto Financial Centre Road as the sun starts to shine.
Then turn right towards the World Trade Centre.
Workers watching the runners.
Turn around and come back past Emirates Towers.
Continue on past DIFC.
One interesting part of running in this region is that you see how the Muslim women dress for the race and, as you can see here, yes they do still wear a sporty veil.
Ethiopian fans
We would later read that nine of the top 10 marathon finishers were Ethiopian. Beautiful efficient strides, and exhilarating to watch their long lopes to the finish line.
Finishers, particularly thrilled later when we saw that we had a sub-10 minute/mile pace. Feeling fantastic!
It looked like a nice run guys!
Posted by: mom | January 28, 2012 at 04:57 PM
So much fun! Then we had cups of tea and plates of toast for breakfast, and a nap in the afternoon.
Posted by: Jennifer | January 30, 2012 at 12:28 AM