The Vancouver Marathon has been on my list for a long time, and it did not disappoint. The scenery is beautiful (and also very familiar, I lived in Vancouver from 1990 to 1995). My favorite part, undoubtedly, was running through the University of British Columbia and Pacific Spirit Park. I love the cedar forests that surround the university.

All of the ups and downs on the route were a bit of a surprise to me… I didn't remember Vancouver having so many hills! My watch was only a rough guide to my progress, because each kilometre was so different. Eventually I fell in beside a runner who had done the marathon several times before, and he was glad to provide me with a few tips. Unfortunately, though, I started falling behind after we reached Stanley Park.

My final time was 2:58:15. Not quite a personal best, but a good time nonetheless.