Apollo DKV ECR # 9 - My Last Long Run before Paris Marathon

I did my last long run before Paris Marathon yesterday. Chennai Runners organized its 9th edition of the popular run called Apollo DKV ECR Run #9. From it early beginnings ECR Runs have come a long way in terms of participation and organization. Earlier we used to park our cars on the roadside and run with out any 'water point' support. Now, we start our runs from resorts like MGM with ample volunteer manned water points. Most importantly, we end our runs with a yummy Idli, Vada, Dosa & Pongal. (I ran the last 5k salivating at prospect of what's around the corner..:-)


(photo courtsey: RV Ramani)
We started our run from MGM Resorts and ECR early around 5:00 ish to beat the heat and traffic. Here the runners intently listening to last minute instructions before being flagged off. See the 'reflective' stickers on the runners ? This small sticker goes a long way in keeping us a safe on the busy ECR.


(photo courtsey: RV Ramani)
I did 30k in preparation for the upcoming Paris marathon. I ran comfortably for about 21 / 22k and after that started doing walk / run combo. While the weather was very pleasant for the first 15k, the other half was a different story. Surya bhagwan came up in all his glory and drenched us with lots and lots of sun light resulting truck loads of sweat.. making last 10k a challenge. Here is yours faithfully at the 15k turnaround point, faithfully using the marked pedestrian crossing.


(photo courtsey: RV Ramani)
This photo must have been around 25k mark.. By this time, I was desperately trying to call on all my reserves to finish the course. I can't remember if I was talking or actually running, but do remember that every part of my body was ready give up.


(photo courtsey: RV Ramani)
All smiles after the run and a great breakfast...

Next ECR Run - July / August..