Good Luck Craig & Alison!!

It's Sunday. Time to sleep in, eat a leisurely, decadent breakfast, read the paper (or two), take a nap ... or fly to Tanzania and do this.

But only, you know, if you really feel like it.

My pseudononymous friends have actually flown to Tanzania and are running the Mt. Kilimanjaro marathon Sunday, March 4. C was reeling from the after-effects of anti-malarial medicine when he left. So we're hoping he recovers in time. Plus, this is his first marathon! Some people.

The marathon route leaves Moshi stadium and heads down towards the town, and then along the main road to Dar-Es-Salaam for approximately 8-9km. This section of the route is relatively flat, and there are plenty of well-wishers along the road. We turn around and head back to the town of Moshi, tracking down into the actual town itself before turning toward the mountain and heading up a long, steady ascent towards Mweka. The uphill climb is gradual, but with Kilimanjaro towering above and all the local villagers out to cheer you on, the time passes quickly. The turnaround point marks approximately 32km and the last section is a fast downhill run back toward the stadium. Regular water tables as well as 'sponging points' and the odd 'shower' keep the runners refreshed and cool along the entire route.

I can't wait to hear all the details!