This was my first marathon and always a goal of mine. When I decided to take up running I always said I wanted to do the original marathon. And boy was it worth it! 20,000 marathoners alone, 101 countries represented. It was massive! There is something about taking a bus and being dropped off and an hour and some change away from where you’ll finish. It’s historical and just so fun! The crowds are unbelievably supportive and the aid stations are plentiful with hydration and food and frequency. And then that finish...WOW. You finish in the historical stadium and it literally brought tears to my eyes. You gotta do it.

The course is consistently an upward hill. I’d say 75% was uphill...nothing too steep, but still, you definitely know you’re not on flat terrain. The scenery is mostly urban, so it’s not great. But the locals make ALL the difference. Loved you Greece! ❤️