Captivating Cuba

Hello! I can't believe its November already! This year seems to have flown past, and it only seems like yesterday that I was saying 'I can't believe it's November already!' ... last year!

Anyhow, it got me thinking about this time a few years ago when I was in Havana myself for a much-needed break. It is my favourite time of the year in Cuba. Hotels and business are quieter than summer and the island has a different feel to it. But in November there is one amazing event that turns Havana into a massive race track and brings people from all over the world. It's called the Marabana and it's Cuba's answer to the New York Marathon! It actually finishes off a week of athletic events that take place in Havana, but the race itself, held on the third Sunday of every November for the past twenty years, is the main attraction.

Picture flickr - Josiah McKenzie

Over a thousand people from all different levels compete every year. Some are professional international runners, but some are just are normal everyday people, who come from all over Cuba to take part. It has been said that it's not the destination, but the journey itself which makes the Marabana so special. I have to agree. There is so much camaraderie between the runners and even language is not a barrier. There are also a lot of handicapped competitors who take part, and it is a really wonderful sight to see the able-bodied helping them out too. Anyhow, as I was there at the right time a few years ago, I decided it would be an amazing thing to do and so me and my friends signed up for the race!

It honestly has to be one of the best experiences I have ever had. There is such a buzz in the city as everyone gathers to begin. The race starts and finishes in the Old Town but you don't have to complete the full 21km as there is also a half marathon route. The circuit takes you through the streets of Havana and past many well-known sights of Cuba. Hotels and businesses right on the circuit provide 'pit stops' with loads of volunteers giving out oranges and water. I felt like I was on a high-speed tour of Havana, with all the familiar and famous sights flashing by me as I whizzed past! Well, jogged anyhow! We also ran along the sea wall of Havana ' the Malecon ' which has some amazing views and gave us an opportunity to catch a cool breeze too.

Picture flickr - neijs

I managed to complete the half circuit (no records broken I'm afraid!) although at times I wasn't sure my legs would hold out. I felt like I'd run right around Cuba! Hotels, hot showers and beds were the order of the day for me and my friends! Next time my goal is to return fit enough to complete the entire marathon.

The best moment came at the end of the race as people were crossing the finish line. Many of the foreign runners took off their shoes and gave them to the Cuban locals who had run the entire course barefoot. It's turned into a tradition for them to do this and it was such a lovely sight it really made me proud. And even though it meant handing over my favourite trainers - I too became a part of the wonderful tradition of the Marabana.

Till next time
Peter

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