From Start to Finish: 2023 Marathon Race Day Recap from The Christian Post Blog
From elite pre-race press conferences to post-race celebrations, we’ve got the tips and tricks you need to compete confidently and successfully from start to finish. Whether your goal is to achieve a personal best or simply hope to cross the finish line, this comprehensive guide will help you tackle race day like a pro every step of the way. So lace up your sneakers and let’s get started!
Introduction: What is a marathon and why do you run a marathon?
A marathon is a long distance run with an official distance of 42.195 kilometers or 26.219 miles. Marathons are held in cities around the world and attract professional and amateur runners.
Many people choose to run a marathon as a personal challenge, to test their limits and see how far they can push themselves. Some people run to raise money for charity, while others do it simply for the love of the sport. Whatever your reason for wanting to run a marathon, this guide will help you get started on your journey.
Marathon training takes dedication and commitment, but it is also an incredibly rewarding experience. You’ll not only get in great shape physically, but you’ll also learn a lot about yourself along the way. Trust us, when you cross that finish line, it will all be worth it!
Race Day Review:
I will start by sharing details some of my race pictures that the official photographer Action Photo took of me and most will share on the day events that I took and posted on social media with focus to twitter:
Action Photos:
Siphiwe Billy Sigudla at Lake Michelle Lake
2023-04-15 08:27 am
Siphiwe Billy Sigudla at East Fort
2023-04-15 10:50 am
3.
Siphiwe Billy Sigudla at Finish
2023-04-15 12:07 pm
TTOM 2023 ELITE ATHLETE’S PRESS CONFERENCE
Date: 14 April 2023
Venue: The Cullinan Hotel, Cape Town
Time: 11:30 am for 12:00 midday
MC: Sean Falconer, TTOM 2023 Head of Commentary
• Welcome – Sean Falconer, Head of Commentary TTOM 2023
(Clip)
• Welcome on behalf of the City of Cape Town, Councillor Nqavashe
• A few words on the incentive and words of encouragement to the Elites – Jonathan Stein, Head of Business (Totalsports) + photo-op with incentive cheque
• Kia – Riaan Janse van Rensburg – Kia Regional Directordelegate to outline incentives and wish Elites well, photo-op with cheque or other symbolic gesture.
(Clip)
(photo)
• Monica Drӧgemӧller (Blue number 330) to hand over Gerda Steyn’s (Blue Number 6067)
(Clip)
(Photo)
• Closing and final remarks – William Swartbooi, TOM NPC Chair
(Clip)
(Photo)
The Press Conference line-up will be follows:
Women’s Half Marathon (21.1km)
1. Bekelech Teku Wariyo (Nedbank Ethiopia)
2. Nwabisa Mjoli (Phantane)
(Clip)
3. Nonthukozo Mkhize (Black Diamond KZN)
Men’s Half Marathon (21.1km)
1. Moses Tarakinyu (Nedbank)
2. Ts’epo Ramashamole (Hollywood)
(Clip)
3. Mbuleli Mathanga (Phantane)
Men’s Ultra Marathon (56km)
1. Dan Matshailwe (Nedbank)
2. Jonas Makhele ( Nedbank)
3. Nkosikhona Mahlakwana (Hollywood)
(Clip)
4. Sintayehu Legese Yinesu (Nedbank Ethiopia)
Women’s Ultra
1. Gerda Steyn (Phantane)
2. Adele Broodryk (Nedbank)
3. Amelework Fikadu Bosho (Nedbank Ethiopia)
4. Carla Molinaro (Wanderers)
@Phantane1 group photo
TTOM 2023 ELITE ATHLETE’S PRESS CONFERENCE
Christian Posts twitter feeds and major event twitter feeds:
Your #TTOM2023 is a go! #TTOM2023#Totalsports #KeepPushing #QhubekekaDeUfike
Batches for #TTOM2023 are flying off the start line! The race is on! Your #TTOM2023 is a go! #TTOM2023 #Totalsports #KeepPushing#QhubekekaDeUfike
Top 10 women at the 35.5km split in the #TTOM2023 race ! #Totalsports #KeepPushing#QhubekekaDeUfike
Defending champ Gerda Steyn looking strong on Chappies, although she is currently a minute behind the front-runner, in 4th place #TTOM2023#Totalsports
#TTOM2023 top 10 men split through 27.3km and women split through 20.9km on the Ultra. #Totalsports #KeepPushing #QhubekekaDeUfike
Gerda Steyn has emphatically cemented her place in history as the Two Oceans Marathon GOAT, breaking the record she set last year once AGAIN with her 4th CONSECUTIVE win in #TTOM2023! Simply sensational – WELL DONE, CHAMP! WOMANDLA! #TTOM2023 #Totalsports
The 53rd edition of the
started off with approx 29 000 runners taking on the Two Oceans Marathon’s ultra and half marathons. The City extends its congratulations to all of the winners and participants of this year’s Marathon. Well done, everyone! #CTEvent
Tankiso has just completed his 10th Two Oceans Marathon! Pacing the 5:30 hour bus, this a dream come true for Tankiso, who cramping in the last 5kay relied on his bus to motivate him to push through, the human spirit on this race just gives us goosebumps! #Totalsports #TTOM2023
Graham completes his 40th #TTOM2023 Ultra in style with celebratory balloons on the finish line #Totalsports #KeepPushing #QhubekekaDeUfike
We caught #TTOM2023 legend Louis Massyn who has just completed his 46th Voyage in the Ultra Marathon! Louis has completed the most ultras of any runner and isn’t done he plans to continue until 50! What an inspiration! Click here to watch: http://bit.ly/41xpHei #Totalsports
The last official #TTOM2023 finisher James Jansen! James sprinted like Usain Bolt to get to the finish line literally split seconds before the official race cut-off! #Totalsports #KeepPushing#QhubekekaDeUfike
Jonathan Stein, head of
and Barry Mellis, GM of
will be taking on our #TTOM2023 half marathon tomorrow! Anyone who sees these two on route, give them a big ! http://bit.ly/3KCuFQl
Some of the highlights of todays #TTOM2023Ultra! Half Marathon, it’s your turn tomorrow! #Totalsports #KeepPushing #QhubekekaDeUfike
Together with our TITLE SPONSOR
, and our official host city, the
, the TOM team wishes you an incredible race! CONQUER THE CURRENT! #TTOM2023
Thanking our official Coffee Partner,
for fueling your #TTOM2023 experience with top-quality coffee, warm toasties, and snacks! ‘As the official coffee partner for another yr, we are proud to be part of your race day journey. Let’s conquer those KM’s together!’
The top 10 men and women of the #TTOM2023Half Marathon at the 5km split #Totalsports#KeepPushing #QhubekekaDeUfike
MEN’S LEADERBOARD 5KM Shawn Abrahams in the lead #TTOM2023
Beyond delighted with a 4th Win and new CR of 3:29:06 at the 2023
So grateful for all the support!! #teameffort #TTOM2023 Check out my activity on Strava: https://strava.app.link/hckj8MMn2yb
he raw emotions for all to see on the #TTOM2023finish line! Francois Meintjes crosses with this message, “what counts in life, is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the life of others that determines the significance of the life we lead
Christian Posts feeds
Preparing For Your Race Day
When it comes to racing, preparation is key. The better prepared you are, the more likely you are to have a successful race day. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare for your big day:
1. Get plenty of rest in the days leading up to the race. You want to be well-rested so you can perform your best on race day.
2. Eat a healthy diet in the days leading up to the race. You want to make sure your body is properly fueled for the big event.
3. Stay hydrated in the days leading up to the race. Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration.
4. Dress appropriately for the weather on race day. If it’s going to be cold, dress warmly. If it’s going to be hot, dress lightly.
5. Warm up properly before the race start. A good warm-up will help you get your muscles loose and ready for action.
6. pace yourself during the race . Don’t start out too fast or you’ll run out of steam later on . Likewise , don’t start out too slow or you’ll never catch up . Find a comfortable pace and stick with it .
What to Wear and Bring On the Day of the Race
What to Wear and Bring on the Race Day
The most important thing to remember when deciding what to wear and bring on the day of the race is comfort. You want to be comfortable while running, so make sure to choose clothes that won’t chafe or rub you the wrong way. It’s also important to dress in layers, since the weather can be unpredictable on race day. Start with a base layer of a moisture-wicking material, then add a middle layer for warmth, and top it off with a wind-resistant jacket. If it’s cold out, don’t forget to wear a hat or headband and gloves. And last but not least, make sure your shoes are comfortable and broken in before the big day!
As for what to bring, pack essentials like your ID, race bib, sunscreen, lip balm, snacks, and water. You may also want to bring cash for post-race food and drinks, as well as anything you might need during the race (like Band-Aids or safety pins). And if you have any pre-race jitters, remember to pack your headphones so you can listen to music or an inspiring podcast before the start line.
Before, During, and After the Race Tips
Before the Race
1. Get a good night’s sleep the night before the race.
2. Eat a nutritious breakfast that will give you energy for the race.
3. Dress appropriately for the weather conditions on race day.
4. Arrive at the race start line early so you can warm up and stretch properly.
before starting the race5, be sure to use the restroom so you don’t have to stop during the race.
During the Race
1. Start out at a comfortable pace and gradually increase your speed as you feel more warmed up.
2. If you need to walk, do so, but try to keep moving forward as best as you can.
3. drink water regularly and fuel your body with energy gels or bars if needed.
After the Race Success! You’ve made it to the finish line! Here are a few things to do after crossing that finish line: 1) Rehydrate by drinking plenty of fluids, 2) Eat something salty like pretzels or sports drinks to replenish electrolytes, 3) Stretch your muscles to help avoid cramping or stiffness, 4) Take a cold shower or bath to help reduce inflammation and swelling in your muscles 5) Most importantly, enjoy your accomplishment!
Post Marathon Recovery Guidelines
The first few days after a marathon are vital for recovery. During this time, it’s important to follow some basic guidelines to help your body repair and recover.
Drink plenty of fluids: This will help to replace the fluid lost during the race and prevent dehydration.
Eat a balanced diet: Eating nutritious food will help your body to replenish its energy stores and repair any damage caused by the marathon.
Rest and relax: Getting enough rest is crucial for recovery. Take some time to relax and let your body recover.
Stretch and foam roll: Stretching and foam rolling will help to release any muscle tension and prevent injuries.
Stay active: While it’s important to rest, you should also stay active during your recovery. Light exercise will help to speed up the recovery process.
Final Thoughts on Marathon Races & Benefits
Marathon races are a great way to challenge yourself and see just how far you can push your body. They can also be a great way to raise money for charity or a cause that is important to you. While most people will never run a marathon, those who do often find the experience to be life-changing.
There are many benefits to running a marathon, both mental and physical. For some, the appeal lies in the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing such a difficult task. Others enjoy the camaraderie of training with friends and fellow runners. And still others find that the act of running helps them clear their mind and relieve stress.
Whether you’re looking to test your limits, raise money for a good cause, or simply enjoy the feeling of running, Marathon Races are definitely worth considering!
Siphiwe Billy Sigudla-Executive Editor Christian Posts Blog
Christian Posts by Billy Sigudla 