How do we identify great capitals? By their size, by their head count, by their tourists, by the international institutions and the governmental organisations that are based there? Of course. But also, and some will say especially, by their marathons! Brussels therefore forms part of the closed circle of the Marathon capitals with London, New York, Boston, Paris and Berlin.
From the Cinquantenaire to the Grand' Place, the Brussels Marathon will delight road race enthusiasts by a course that is certainly attractive, but nevertheless demanding, traversing the municipalities of Watermael-Boitsfort, Auderghem, Woluwé-Saint-Pierre, Tervuren, Etterbeek and downtown Brussels. Jogger Friends
On Sunday, 2 October 2011, the bravest athletes and the sharpest will set off on their 42.19km "pilgrimage" at 9 o'clock in the morning. The first sixteen kilometres are furiously reminiscent of the route of the very popular Brussels 20km. At the foot of the Avenue de Tervuren footbridge, the pack will fork towards the Flemish-speaking locality of the same name. About-turn opposite the Africa Museum, and back towards Brussels via the terrible imperceptible incline that will bring the joggers towards the Ring and the no less terrible uphill part of Avenue de Tervuren. Back in the Parc du Cinquantenaire, be sure to thank the Queen of England, who offers you 2.195km of triumph towards most beautiful city square in the world. Ain't life grand?Families have not been forgotten, since the organiser has set up a pretty enticing programme for you while you wait, with a 1000-metre race reserved for children, plus a 5km one and then a half marathon. The latter follows a large part of the Brussels 20km course. A unique opportunity for getting your own back!
Finally, to help you with your preparation, a famous equipment supplier has set up some training-oriented software that's really impressive: http://www.myasics.com/.
