14th November 2024 - Hannah Bibby

Danny’s Lisbon Marathon

There’s a fine line between optimistic spontaneity and sheer denial—Danny’s marathon in Lisbon skated that line expertly! For his first (and very likely last) 42.2 km, he opted for a unique training regime: several days of “preparation” exploring Lisbon’s cafes and sampling its pasteis de nata. When race day finally arrived, he was well-versed in the local culture, if not exactly prepared to run a marathon.

The race itself was stunning, starting at 8 a.m. along the scenic coast from Cascais to Lisbon’s main square. After an unexpected school friend reunion on the start line, Danny was off—maybe not warmed up, but full of enthusiasm! He hit his stride for the first half, managing to stay under two hours. But that second half? Let’s just say his pace “matured,” as did his appreciation for the strategically placed electric scooters along the route. Danny finished in a respectable, 5 hours 20 minutes.

Post-race, he and his girlfriend’s family retreated to Porto, where his new endurance sport was limping from the beach to a barbecue and back. And just when he thought he’d safely evaded further athletic humiliation, a week later, Danny pulled a muscle  while playing with his dad’s old men’s football team. Some athletes come back stronger after their first marathon. Danny came back with a limp—and a legendary story.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Congratulations Danny, everyone at Herbert Scott is very proud of you.

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