As a novice runner this was my first outside of the U.K. I turned it in to a mini-break and due to the overall value of the holiday and the fact it was snowing back home I am glad I did it!

Overall the course is relatively uninspiring particularly the first half, and the early start probably contributed to the lack of local support. 

Arriving Saturday morning to pick up the race pack was straightforward, and the registration centre was in the middle of the old harbour where the great post race party took place. Bag drop off was straightforward and there were plenty of toilets, so there it was limited queuing. Although it didn't affect me as I have a straight aim and didn't need a number 2 the lack of toilet paper would have been a problem for some! The race set off running away from Limassol, and I thought the course although uninspiring was relatively flat. I think the lack of support would have affected those struggling with the full marathon.

At the finish I was greeted with ice spray, a chunky medal and a free lager so I was more than happy with that!

For me the best part of the day (I'm not a serious runner!) was the post event party. There was a large stage which was sponsored by a local beach bar and the DJ was smashing out some tunes. After a few beers my post race aches seemed to disappear and it was a really good atmosphere. Runners, locals, families all getting in the party mood.

It was only my 5th half marathon and it was the first one that I'd been able to socialise with other runners post event. That was good fun, and it was interesting chatting to some 100+ marathon runners (that is number of events not their age). Surprising the members of the 100+ club seemed relatively normal, something I wasn't expecting.

Would I return and compete in the half or full marathon, probably not. Having said that I am glad I entered. With cheap flights, good value hotels and excellent local cuisine I had a good few days.

Sitting in Limassol airport As I write this I am already planning my next foreign race. It will be good to beat the miserable British weather, so a late 2018 / early 2019 foreign race is in the cards.