Paris - My first marathon.

/April 2nd 2023 - 4h29/

/Elevation 165m - Temperature 8℃

/From 2027, access via the ballot in September or charity bib.

/Sponsor: Asics

/51100 finishers

"You're not a real runner if you haven't run a marathon"

I was running seriously for about 2 years when one of my colleagues joked and challenged me with the above sentence. At first, it seemed crazy and unachievable so I turned the opportunity down, but the idea kept growing in my mind. Why not, after all?

I found a training program online to finish in 4h30 - I had no idea what I was getting into. Spoiler alert, I finished alive, and in 4h29. Mission accomplished!

I choose Paris for practical reasons. I knew the city very well and I planned to run it with girlfriends. We had a very motivational WhatsApp group!

No idea about marathon pace training, intervals or fueling. The moto was "run and never ever stop, or you will never be able to get the engine going again".

THE EXPO

I remember being super impressed, as it was my first expo and didn't know what to expect. The expo is officially known as Run Experience, and it is much more than a place to collect your race number. It is the pre-race gathering point for runners, running brands, sponsors and the wider marathon community. It takes place at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

THE COURSE

The official marathon distance takes runners through central Paris, east towards the Bois de Vincennes, back along the Seine, and west towards the Bois de Boulogne with the start on the Champs-Élysées and the finish near Avenue Foch, close to the Arc de Triomphe. A real touristic tour you will never forget.

Paris marathon is not flat — at least, not in the way that Berlin is commonly described as flat.

• The opening descent: the Champs-Élysées encourages a fast start, but banking too much energy early can backfire.

• The eastern section: long stretches through Vincennes can feel repetitive and exposed in places.

• The Seine tunnels: short climbs and descents can interrupt your stride.

• The late stages: the western section and the approach towards Trocadéro contain undulations that become more noticeable when your legs are tired.

THE WEATHER

I remember to have a real chilly day, grey cloudy sky. Tipycal early Spring in Paris, about 8 to 10 degrees Celsius. Clearly perfect conditions for a PB.

THE ATMOSPHERE

The start is theatrical. Starting on the Champs-Élysées, beneath the Arc de Triomphe, feels more like a major sporting occasion than an ordinary Sunday run.

The crowds vary by neighbourhood. Some central stretches feel festive and densely supported, while the park sections can be quieter.

The landmarks keep you motivated. There is a steady succession of places you recognise from photographs, films and visits to Paris.

The last kilometres are emotional. By the time you return to the western city streets, the race has become less about sightseeing and more about getting yourself home.

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WHERE TO STAY

It's pretty easy to reach the starting area and finish line with the subway, from almost anywhere in central Paris. I would recommend tho to stay on the West side of the city (districts 1st, 2nd, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 16th and 17th are the best) and avoid taxis and Uber.

WANT TO SEE MORE?

Check at my Instagram video for a live experience!