The Beirut 10k and Jogging in the Gulf

Apologies for my absence. The last few weeks have been quite hectic with hopping and running across the region.

On November 27th, Beirut came to a standstill and 29,999 Lebanese and I ran/walked 10k around the city. It was a glorious day and kicked off with typical Middle Eastern punctuality, "approximately 9am" was eventually 9:45. The Lebanese have a very interesting approach to a fun run and it was more of a stroll through the pedestrianised streets whilst stopping off at various cafes and restaurants en route. I am hoping the London Marathon will be similar!

There was a full military presence which was a bit overwhelming, but the atmosphere was great and it was a lovely way to see the city. We ran past many of the landmarks including the statue to commemorate the spot where former President Rafic Hariri was assassinated.

If you look closely, you can see that I finished in a new personal best...

December was surprisingly mild here and allowed me to get out and about. The hills really are quite limiting, as I am using most of my energy to power my way up and therefore my speed isn't great. But I am getting there, and at least I am moving forwards! Christmas was spent in Kuwait which is, if nothing else, an interesting place. Jogging up and down next to women in full Burqas and was a rather odd sensation. It was fascinating to watch these women gliding across the tracks like large black ghosts, their feet, hands and faces all but invisible. Just after New Year I moved on to Dubai which was considerably more Western in its approach and I used the hotel gym to keep my training going.

Now, I am back home in Beirut. I have just over 3 months to go and I am combining gym workouts with road runs (on the flattest roads I can find)! I am starting to enjoy the sensation more and more and also starting to see changes in my body and the way I react and recover from the exercise - so far, so good!