Unfortunately, my beloved wife has not yet received confirmation as a volunteer for the Olympic Games. Life isn’t always fair, because she really wanted to experience the Olympic atmosphere. I, on the other hand, was considering escaping to a remote coast. But as it had to be: things turned out differently.
But anyone who knows my wife knows: She always has an ace up her sleeve.
Months ago, she installed an app on her phone that challenged her to complete various running tasks. Her goal: To participate in the "Marathon for All" at the Olympic Games in Paris. (Link to the official page)
Sometimes she had to run 10 km, sometimes 20 km, or simply complete a 30-minute continuous run. Always with a time limit to beat or a minimum distance to cover. After each completed task—now over 55 out of a total of 1,500 km—she participated in a lottery for one of the coveted spots. Yesterday, she finally received the long-awaited confirmation. Congratulations!
The "Marathon pour tous" covers the full distance of 42.195 km. It will take place on August 10th and starts in the evening at 9:00 PM. The run begins at Paris City Hall, passes through the municipalities of Boulogne-Billancourt, Sèvres, Ville d’Avray, Versailles, Viroflay, Chaville, Meudon, Issy-les-Moulineaux, and ends at the Hôtel des Invalides, near Napoleon’s resting place.
20,024 participants are expected.
My son has also announced his intention to participate. Actually, a hopeless endeavor, as registration ends this December. But anyone who knows Manuel knows that luck is on his side. So, good luck with the upcoming challenges the app will set for you. Since he studies in Toulouse, at least he will face the tasks in pleasant weather conditions. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for him, too.
This isn’t Marie’s first time participating in a run. She has already taken part in half marathons in Malaga, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and Normandy. After unexpectedly receiving the confirmation, her first reaction was: “I’ve never run a full marathon before!”
Is there a more beautiful premiere than at the Olympic Games in Paris?
