Today Malta hosts the annual marathon around our small island, the 40th edition. I am of course beyond my marathon days, although my nephew Julian has taken part in a few marathons or half-marathons with very good times. This event brings back nostalgic memories when I took part in the New York City marathon three times, in 1985, 1986 and 1987. It all started when a parishioner asked me if I wanted to participate in the marathon, because he got the official number, but could not go. So, without any training and with no idea what running 26 miles and 385 yards meant, I was on the starting line-up with 30,000 other athletes. Of course I walked all the way to the end, but successfully finished and received the medal, which I treasure.
Two more medals later I retired from running, and even though I did not win the race, I always cherish the immortal words of Pierre Rene de Coubertin, the founder of the Olympic Games...’ the important thing is not to win, but to participate.’ Orlando Pizzolato, the 1985 winner took home $100,000 and a Mercedes Benz, but I took with me many happy and precious memories.
And this is a photo of my nephew and namesake Julian Cassar during one of his half-marathons. Today's time for him was 1 hour 40 minutes, which is quite impressive. An athlete from Morocco won today’s Malta marathon. Over 5000 athletes took part in today's race. Quite a few athletes did a shorter distance and raised money for charity. This year actually is also my 40th anniversary of my first marathon, which was held in November 1985. Congratulations Julian, and I hope one day you can do the New York City marathon.
No comments:
Post a Comment