Day 587 – US – Maryland/ DC [Gaithersburg to Washington DC]

12/11/21

31km

  From Gaithersburg (Maryland) to Washington (DC)

North America

A rainy start… and sunny arrival by the White House, greeted by Women for Women International – and my parents, all the way from France!

Rainy start to the day

The day started really warm and rainy. In my rain gear I set off, knowing that in an hour or so it would clear up. And it did. Soon I was running on the paths leading to Washington DC as the skies got clearer and clearer. My meeting point was 12 noon, by the White House, quite exciting!

With Victoria, from WFWI

As I reached the place, I was greeted by the women of the NGO I run for, Women for Women International (headquartered in DC). Victoria led the cheering and we took some time to discuss and take pictures together (more group pictures to come when I receive them tomorrow). I received some gifts from Laurie, the CEO who could not be here today – some lovely handmade presents from the women in Rwanda (WFWI helps women develop crafts, with which they can start a local economy – among other things). More treasures from the journey!

With my Mum and Dad

My parents and I then set off for a tour around Washington downtown. We walked all day, around the Freedom Plaza, Lincoln Memorial, Washington monument, the convention centre… We only stopped for a quick lunch at a really good Italian restaurant. Then on for more walking. In the evening we joined Victoria and her husband Franklin, who are hosting us for two nights in their home. We enjoyed a lovely home cooked dinner of Cincinnati chili, made by Franklin (delicious) and some nice wine.

What a full day this has been… full on! I’m looking forward to a good night’s sleep and the rest-day tomorrow (I expect there will be more walking!).

Enjoy the video of today’s run: https://www.relive.cc/view/vNOPYMWpBY6

Check my daily run GPS data on or

Here is the map of today’s run: