On the second lap, the field spreads out significantly, and I can pedal at my own pace. Without the rain, the route through Gantrisch is impressive, though I can gradually feel the 2,200 meters of elevation gain in my thighs. I follow the course profile taped to my handlebars and am quite relieved when I reach the highest point at Pötsch at KM 150.
In the transition zone, I slip into dry socks and running shoes. It feels wonderful as my feet slowly warm up on the first few meters.
I start the marathon at a deliberately easy pace. The thought that I will have to run each meter of this first lap two more times is demotivating. I try to focus on the course to push away the negative thoughts.
And if there’s one thing the running course in Thun offers, it’s variety: streets, lake promenade, park, harbor, bridges, turnaround points, old town, a lap around a stadium… I completely lose my sense of direction but still have 2 more laps to regain it. At the aid stations, I stick to broth and pretzels to avoid upsetting my stomach. After completing the first lap without any issues, I’m overjoyed: in Klagenfurt, this was when the suffering began. However, the salty broth now makes me crave water. I drink water and cola but, after 22 km, I’m alarmed to find that my stomach cramps after every aid station. 100 meters past the last aid station of the second lap, I can’t manage to run and have to keep doubling over with cramps. Gradually, I’m overtaken by all the runners I had passed earlier. What a shame. Have I already walked 2 km?! I can’t seem to muster the energy to start running again.
