Graydon Widdicombe competed in the Zurich Seville Marathon on Sunday 20^th February.

Despite Eunice’s best efforts in trying to scupper his plans, Graydon’s flight from Bristol Airport to Andalusia's capital Seville on Friday morning left on time, and he was very relieved to touch down safely in sunnier climes a few hours later.

Seville Marathon is known to be a flat and fast course, passing the most emblematic places of the city, such as the Plaza de Espana, the Torre del Oro, La Giralda, the Parque de Maria Luisa. The weather conditions on race day were perfect with ideal temperatures, low humidity, and a gentle breeze.

Graydon’s plan was to try and get a PB, and he set off with that in mind, going through half way in 01:33:34. A quick thought crossed his mind at this point, as he remembered struggling around in a windy Half in 01:34 two weeks ago, but he quickly put that thought out of his mind!
He kept a decent pace, although in the last 2 to 3 miles lots of runners were slowing, which did cause some congestion on the narrower streets on this section. Indeed, with about 1 mile to go, Graydon also had a ‘jelly legs’-moment and he slowed a bit. The finish came into view at the famous Cartuja Stadium, which gave Graydon the added lift as he neared the line. 
Graydon finished in 03:06:14, which was a PB of just over 13 minutes from his previous best that was set back in 2018. The negative split was particularly pleasing.

The cheering crowds and multiple music groups along the route added to the great atmosphere.

Graydon was delighted with the time, and went back out into the fabulous city to find some tapas to celebrate.