Take a sunny, 'crisp' Sunday, add around 31,000 sporty people with a determined look in their eyes, mix in some expert 'event-organisers', place them all together in the big melting-pot called Amsterdam and you've got yourself a Marathon.
'They' went, I watched (and was well impressed). Aleide, Lillian, Sjors, Ron and Eric.
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| Lillian, Sjors and Eric waiting for Aleide |
The crowds near the start were so dense, that it made me wonder how anyone could ever run with so many people crammed together. Turned out, it wasn't easy.
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| Sjors and Eric before 'take off' |
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| Eric in crowd, at start |
After the runners had gone, there was a lot of 'residue' left. Many people wear old jumpers, while waiting for the start-sign, which they then cast aside, once they start running. Sjors saw an opportunity in some clever advertising for 'his' sailing magazine 'Zilt' (see picture below).
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| What the flock left behind |
I waved the flock goodbye, took their bags and found myself a good spot, next to the finish line, in the Amsterdam Olymic Stadium. Enjoying a cold but beautiful day and happily chatting to the people around me, whilst keeping an eye on the clock (I had been given an ETA schedule!!!).
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| My view |
There was a constant stream of runners (also in fancy dress) coming in. I spotted Ron (because of signature black+red dotted handkerchief on head).
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| Ron just after finish |
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| Two cows crossing |
Then Sjors and Eric came in to be followed by Aleide and Lillian (who beat her PB by 6.36 min.!). Eric came back to show me his medal and let out a cry of victory. Not sure about the guy next to him though. I think he let out a cry of pain and nearly threw up! (see picture below)
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| Hero! |
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| Sjors on the look out for Lillian |
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| Runners queueing after crossing the finish line |
Afterwards, we all cycled to Ron and Anjet, who had invited us to their lovely home to celebrate with Champagne and 'lekkere hapjes' (tasty bites). Wonderful.
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