On Sunday, there were 10,000 participants from the region, France, and even Rรฉunion, who took part in the very first Alpes Maritimes Marathon. Covering a total distance of 42 km and 195 meters, from Nice to Cannes, this marathon immediately positions itself among the world’s great marathons, especially for its beauty.
At 8:45 a.m., the start was given, and the Promenade des Anglais was filled with a wave of runners. The sun was shining after more than ten days of continuous rain, with no breeze in sight. As they progressed through postcard-worthy seaside landscapes, the most trained kept up the pace, while others slowed down or even gave up.
2 hours and 11 minutes later, the finish line was crossed by Kenyan Kitur Jacob in front of the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, a true performance! On the women’s side, the first to cross the finish line at the Pantiero in Cannes after 2 hours and 37 minutes was Russian Okxana Kuzmicheva, closely followed by Ingrid Lopergolo from Grasse, who completed the marathon in 2 hours and 44 minutes.
Another star of this marathon, the Deputy Mayor of Nice and President of the General Council of Alpes Maritimes, Christian Estrosi, finished the marathon in 4 hours and 23 minutes, followed a few minutes later by the Mayor of Nuremberg.
In the end, this first marathon was a total success both in terms of organization and athletic performance, as well as statistics: more than 1 million euros in budget, 34 nations represented, 400,000 cups, 4 tons of oranges, and 5 km of banners.
For next year, the organizers aim for 5,000 more participants!
As for the Nice Premium team, they have already started training to participate in the relay for the 2nd edition.
