The Barcelona Marathon
The first week in March brings many festivals and activities to the city of Barcelona. A new movie opens starring actor Benicio del Toro. This is latest biographical film surrounding the life of Che Guevara. The street fair, Tibidabo, opens and offers fun for the whole family. The newest addition being a thrilling roller coaster. There are many exhibits opening around the city including a Sorolla retrospective at the MNAC, an historical exhibit at Museum that illustrates the effects of immigration and urban planning, and a photographic exhibit at CCCB. This show, titled Bamako, hi-lights over 200 photographs taken by 16 photographers from Africa. There are many cultural activities this week for those looking to get out of the house or out of the rooms of their 5 star Barcelona hotels, however, for those looking for a bit more adventure, one event stands out, the Barcelona Marathon.
On March 1, 2009 more than 10,000 people will run on a course designed not only to test the physical strength and endurance of the runners, it is designed as a cultural and visually stimulating experience as well. This is one of the annual events in Barcelona and draws many who are participating and many who are spectators cheering on the athletes.
The marathon began just over forty years ago. And while it is a 42.195 km run, there are the options for those wishing to participate but who have not the endurance for a full marathon. Many will participate in either the 5k or the 10k race. The city of Barcelona is steeped with history, cultural and architectural and this tour means to take runners past it all. Many buildings here were designed by Antoni Gaudi, a Barcelona native, and as the runners run they will be going by some of his most famous designs. Runners will also pass some of the famous sculptures and public art works. The run starts and finishes at the harbour, which offers a bit of relief of the sea breeze at the end of such a tour. And although the course has its tough moments, as far as hills and inclines, the visual aspect and the cultural history offers those running the inspiration and the drive to continue on their personal quest. Where but in Barcelona, would such an event be so beautiful and rich in culture, this is a must-do for any marathon runner.
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