We ran out of Moscow with some of our Russian comrades. Four Russians joined us: Sergej 1 and Sergej 2, Mihail, and Tatjana: good runners. It was very lovely to run with local people. They enthusiastically carried the torch and the flags as well. Skies were grey, the air was fresh.

It was slightly cold, and at the time it was raining. Still we were in the best of moods. Our Russian friends were full to the brim with joy and enthusiasm. They handed the torch to everyone we met on our way. This resulted in some really special moments. When some people took the torch their faces and whole demeanour really blossomed. Broad smiles broke out on their faces, their eyes glittered, and the whole body and posture somehow were flooded with a new energy. While handing back the torch, one could feel how overwhelmed some were with gratitude. Through the whole region of Tver we had many local runners running with us. Among them were a middle-aged man and woman who ran over 30k with us, and joined us for the final ceremony in the city of Tver. They were wonderful, energetic people, and very enthusiastic about the Run.

For the final 7k we had a group of children and local runners running with us. Spectators smiled, honked their horns, and waved. In a flowery park we were received by the city representative who, in honour of the city’s 870 years, handed each of us a stylish ceramic plaque depicting the Russian Alexander the Great.

The marathon team in Russia is really taking very good care of us, providing us with breakfast and lunch-bags, and even dinner and accommodations when needed. Tonight they had prepared a nice dinner for us. After a day like this you usually don’t need much time to fall asleep. Especially after the honey drink Duranta was offering to all: a traditional Russian drink consisting only of honey. From the taste and smell you’d be surprised to find that it is non-alcoholic! Then we prepared ourselves for bed (and the mosquitoes prepared themselves for us). Sweet dreams...

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Distance: 153km

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