On December 14, 2024, I laced up my Nike Vaporfly 3 trainers and joined thousands of runners on the start line of the Abu Dhabi ADNOC Marathon. It was a day filled with anticipation, grit, and a few moments of doubt, but crossing that finish line after 3 hours, 39 minutes, and 26 seconds was a testament to months of preparation, support, and the magic of this incredible city.
The Course: A Runner’s Dream Through Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi ADNOC Marathon offers one of the most scenic courses in the running world, blending modern urban landscapes with historic beauty. The race begins near the ADNOC Headquarters, an architectural marvel standing as a symbol of innovation. From there, the route winds through the iconic Corniche, offering breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf’s turquoise waters. Other major sights included the majestic Emirates Heritage Club, the Grand Mosque, and the towering flagpole at Marina Mall, reminders of the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi. Davie also explained the history behind nearly every building we passed, as he had looked after it or had done deals with people that were accommodated with them.
The atmosphere along the route was electric. Crowds cheered enthusiastically, volunteers handed out water with a smile, and the energy of fellow runners was infectious. This support became my lifeline, especially during the last 8 kilometers when the heat turned the streets into a challenge of endurance and mental toughness.
The Journey: From 5:20 to 5:12
As the starting gun fired, I settled into a steady pace of 5:20 min/km for the first 5 kilometers. The strategy was deliberate—saving energy for the later stages while soaking in the initial adrenaline rush. By the final 5 kilometers, my pace had increased to 5:12 min/km, a push fueled by sheer determination and the camaraderie of my pal Davie, who was tackling his first marathon. Running side by side with him was a highlight, as we shared encouragement and kept each other motivated through every stride.
The Gear and Nutrition: Game-Changing Choices
My choice of gear played a significant role in my performance. The Nike Vaporfly 3 trainers lived up to their reputation, providing incredible propulsion and comfort. Every step felt lighter, even during the grueling later stages of the race. For nutrition, I relied on SIS Beta Fuel gels, which proved to be a game-changer. Their balance of carbs and electrolytes kept me fueled and hydrated, helping me power through when my body started to falter.
The Struggle: Batting the Heat
The marathon was not without its challenges. The last 8 kilometers under Abu Dhabi’s midday sun were particularly punishing. My pace was harder to maintain as the heat drained my energy, but giving up was never an option. Encouragement from the crowd, the thought of crossing the finish line, and the support of Davie kept me moving forward. Every step became a mental battle, and every kilometer was a small victory.
The Finish: A Silver Medal and a Silver Moment
Crossing the finish line was an indescribable feeling. The clock read 3:39:26, a time I’m incredibly proud of. Volunteers handed me a stunning silver medal, heavy in weight and rich in detail, commemorating the marathon and my accomplishment. It was a tangible reminder of the months of training, early mornings, and the journey I had undertaken.
The Unsung Hero: Coach Ginie Barand
This achievement would not have been possible without my coach, Ginie Barand. Her training plans were meticulous, tailored to build endurance, speed, and resilience. Ginie’s encouragement and expertise turned what once felt like an impossible dream into a reality. From interval sessions to long runs, her guidance ensured I was not only physically prepared but mentally ready for the challenge ahead.
Reflections: More Than a Race
The Abu Dhabi ADNOC Marathon was more than just a race; it was a celebration of resilience, friendship, and the joy of running. Completing it with Davie and watching him conquer his first marathon made it even more special. The lessons I learned about perseverance and the support of a strong community will stay with me forever.
For anyone considering the Abu Dhabi ADNOC Marathon, I cannot recommend it highly enough. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, exploring a stunning city, or simply testing your limits, this race has something extraordinary to offer. And who knows? Maybe I’ll see you at the start line next year.
Thanks for reading
James