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I have just returned from running this incredible
event in the Hills and Vineyards of the Black Forest. After 10 years and 480
marathons around the world, I know a great event when I’ve been in one. This
is top 10 I can assure you. My German friend, Rudolf Malburg, Marathon des
Sables and Marathon of Britain veteran time and time over has developed an
unusual running strategy that was enjoyed by this years 50 or so competitors.
His theory of Starting Together, Helping Together, Arriving Together is an
incredible thing to be part of. |
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After I arrived in the City of Baden-Baden for an
all-inclusive £13.99 each way on Ryan Air, I was warmly welcomed into the
Dokan Sports Centre in Buhl for the Pre-race Pasta Party. The Local German
food (of which I am not sure of the ingredients) was indeed plentiful as well
as delicious. My evening sleepover in the Dokan Sports Centre was accompanied
by the deep snoring sounds of German Beer induced sleep, consumed by some
competitors controlling pre-race nerves. Boy can they snore! |
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Anyway at 5am we breakfasted with even more huge
quantities of food before the coach trip to the start at Offenburg Railway
Station. It was very very cold! My three thermal layers received frowns from
the local runners but I was convinced that I had the right strategy for the
40 or so miles. Luckily for me it worked but next time I will take gloves and
a thermal hat with ear coverings.
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Not top 10 yet? Well here’s the bit where it started
to become special. It was a slow in building but we all set off together.
Right on time, with Rolf at the front leading and pacing the way. Behind him
48 Germans speaking non-stop and me floating near the back keeping up with
whomever took time to speak to me. And they did all of them, they all tried
to include me and all spoke great English. Every 10K there was a checkpoint
for refreshments, kit change and other runners who could run one or more of
the stages from the 63K event. |
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After a special 30K non-alcoholic mulled wine cocktail,
I felt much better. Some more food and a ten-minute stop I rallied on
chatting now with nearly all of the runners. As the event neared its end I
had a great sense of satisfaction from the camaraderie of my new friends. As
we approached the Christmas Market in Baden-Baden as a stampede of 50 or more
runners, I did feel a tear as we approached the busy City Centre to receive
our welcomes form the Mayor and Mayoress. It was a wonderful carnival to be
part of. |
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The event has 12532ft of climb and descent along its
beautiful route through the Ice Wine Regions of the Black Forest. Value for
money is incredible at 35€ for entry and food and then the cheap flight from
Stansted. Rolf has another event in October and I’m sure that I will be there
to be part of his next venture. Oh the time, 9hrs 27 minutes, for the 40
miles. All finished together, everyone looked really fresh and all stopped
for the post race party and celebrations. |
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If you wish to experience the next Ice Wine Marathon
or October Fest Marathon, please contact me, and I will send you details and
arrange for your trip. Although part of me is thinking that I might just keep
the event to myself to enjoy the Magic of the Ice Wine Marathon once again. |
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I must say thanks to Rudolf and his family for
making my weekend one to remember and also for making me an honourable German
for the weekend.
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