Day 17 – EU – Spain [Sevilla to Utrera]

22/12/19

43km

  From Sevilla (Spain) to Utrera (Spain)

Europe

From a foggy misty start to a sunny and warm finish – happy feet!

For the first time since the World Run has started, I set out this morning with a meeting point in front of me. My parents and younger brother will be waiting for me at Utrera, South of Sevilla, where my run ends today.

Something strange happened: the notion of time suddenly entered my mind as I ran. Up till now, time is pretty much of no essence when I’m on the road. My progress is measured in kilometres run and how close I am getting to my arrival point. I would, for instance, never look at the time while I run.

I was wondering if the notion of time would have any impact on my running – I did not consciously run any differently today. Well, looking at my GPS data for the day, I can say it did! And this is interesting. All of today’s kilometers are pretty much run faster than any other day. Yes, it was a flat route. But still, I ran a big chunk at close to (or faster) than 10kph and this has not happened before. I am usually around 9 to 9.5kph (bear in mind this is whilst pushing the 30kgs of a loaded BoB).

It reminded me how a few years ago, I decided to ditch my running watch, both for training and racing, whilst I was still competing in Ironman triathlons. I immediately noticed how I felt much better, freer, and paid more attention to my body. In general, I became much better at the sport, at pacing myself and incidentally, my times also got better.

Anyway, enough babbling about time, the day was quite pleasant. Started in very foggy and misty conditions, to finish off under a glorious sun! I enjoyed lunch with part of the family, and a mighty stroll through Sevilla. The streets were so crowded it looked like everyone was out, the air was warm and the people in festive mood. I am very glad I will get to see more of the city – and the family! – in the coming days.

Check my daily run GPS data on or

Here is the map of today’s run: