STORM Éowyn was nowhere to be seen in sunny Marrakech at the weekend, where Ward Park Runners’ Mary Slocum completed one of the world’s most prestigious marathons.
The route is a single lap that takes participants along the side of the Moroccan city’s 12th-century ramparts, through the Menara gardens and on dusty roads lined with palm trees.
The course, which has changed from previous years, included a number of inclines, especially at mile 22 where runners had to tackle a steady climb of two miles.
Despite the heat and hills, Mary sailed around her first marathon of the year in 3:13:54, crossing the line as the first F55 and F60 runner.
Storm Éowyn meant that most home races were called off last weekend. However 16 Ward Park Runners headed to Comber parkrun on Saturday, not letting the weather stop them.
Comber had record numbers of 467 participants due to most local park runs being cancelled following storm damage. Huge thanks to the volunteers.
Ward Park Runners is an inclusive club, training on Mondays and Wednesdays. Visit the club’s Facebook or Instagram pages for more information.