My friends laugh at me when I mention my bucket list.
Why?
Because bucket lists are supposed to be the list of things you want to do before you die. Problem is, mine is so long, I don’t think it even gives me time to die.
I suppose I have things I don’t feel like doing before I die – like going to Antarctica.
But, for the record, if someone shoved plane tickets in my hand and forced me to go to Antarctica, I would.
Just so we’re clear.
In order to make my extensive list less overwhelming, I usually just focus on a few things at the time.
Today, I got the ball rolling on the item sitting at the top of the short list: run a marathon on African soil.
That’s right. God willing, pending application approval, I’ll be running the Lewa Marathon in June. It claims to be one of the top 10 “must do” marathons in the world.
Whatever. I’m more interested in the fact that the course runs through a Kenyan wildlife preserve. Yes, please.
I have no idea if I’ll be able to get the training in that I’ll need. The course is tough – it’s near Mount Kenya – and it ain’t low altitude.
Why would I do this to myself? Well, as I explained almost exactly a year ago when I signed up for my first distance trail race, I think it’s pretty simple: I love to run and I’m a glutton for punishment. As I learned through the 25K, that combination can result in something pretty unforgettable.
More importantly: Will I make to the finish line?
Stay tuned.
from the writer's notepad 
This sounds like fun. I have yet to visit anywhere on the African continent, but a marathon is a great way to get me there. Did you ever consider the Big Five Marathon? It looks somewhat similar to the one you’ve chosen: http://www.big-five-marathon.com/
There’s also the Two Oceans Ultra, which is definitely on my bucket list. Someday …
The Big Five looks awesome. So does this one: http://www.vicfallsmarathon.com/. Definitely think a destination marathon on this continent would be a great introduction. You should do it. 🙂
I have a friend in the Peace Corps in Mozambique who ran Victoria Falls actually 🙂
All in due time though. 50 states first!
oh rebecca. this is why i miss you. legitimately laughed out loud. you would totally go to antarctica. and WHATEVER YOU DO, DON’T FORGET TO SET ASIDE TIME TO DIE.
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