Just back from my first race for the year. This race was special to me as it marked the completion of my 10th full marathon since I started marathoning in 2008. What better way to commemorate this milestone than to do it in Hong Kong? Another highlight of this marathon was the fact that this was the coldest marathon I have ever attempted. Apparently, it was as cold as 12 to 13 degrees Celsius. As someone from the tropics, this was indeed a fantastic experience. Initially, I was very concerned about the cold temperature as I arrived in Hong Kong not prepared physically as well as psychologically for the cold. Some last minute shopping for weather appropriate running gear helped tremendously. I bought a long sleeved running T and on race day, I wore 2 layers of T-shirts.
The actual experience of running in the cold proved to be very positive. It was indeed very comfortable and I really enjoyed the cool air. This was also the first marathon that I ran in a pair of full length compression tights. The compression tights served me well as it protected me from the cold as well as provided enough support for my leg muscles. This is the first marathon that I completed absolutely pain free. I was really surprised.
The route was exactly the same as last year's and this year, I was mentally better prepared for the elevation of the route. I improved by about 15 mins from last year's timing completing the race in 4:47. I am happy with this timing =)
Other than the race, the company and food that went along with the race was fantastic... All of us, completed the race well.
This race will indeed be a highlight for me should my friends and I decide to do this race again.
