Carn Runners were represented on the international stage as Zoe and Steve took on the Generali Maratón de Málaga, enjoying not only Spanish sunshine and a fantastic atmosphere but also delivering outstanding personal best performances.
With Málaga offering a fast, scenic course and ideal winter racing conditions, expectations were quietly high going into race day. Still, marathons and half-marathons rarely give anything away easily — and both runners knew they would need everything to go right to achieve their goals.
For Zoe, the race marked a hugely satisfying breakthrough. Lining up for the half marathon, she ran with confidence and control, pacing herself perfectly across the miles. The reward came at the finish line, where she stopped the clock with an official time of 2 hours 21 minutes, smashing her previous half-marathon personal best by around seven minutes. A performance that reflects months of consistent training, resilience, and growing confidence over the distance.
Meanwhile, Steve took on the full marathon, and what followed was one of those rare race days where everything aligns. From the early miles right through to the closing stages, the plan held together — steady pacing, controlled effort, and strong legs when it mattered most. Crossing the line in an official time of 3 hours 19 minutes and 32 seconds, Steve not only secured a personal best but did so in emphatic style, taking over 30 minutes off his previous marathon best.
That kind of improvement is never accidental. It’s the product of consistent training, patience, and learning from past races — and when it comes together on the day, it makes the achievement all the sweeter.
The Málaga course itself played its part. Known for its coastal stretches, wide roads, and vibrant crowd support, it offers runners the chance to settle into rhythm while enjoying stunning views and enthusiastic encouragement. The conditions were well-suited to fast running, and both Zoe and Steve made the most of them, keeping focused while soaking up the experience.
International races always bring something extra. Travelling, racing abroad, and sharing the experience together adds to the sense of occasion — and celebrating big PBs in the Spanish sunshine certainly isn’t a bad way to do it. From pre-race nerves to post-race relief and pride, it was a day full of memorable moments.
Performances like these are also a reminder of the strength and depth within Carn Runners. Whether racing locally or further afield, club members continue to challenge themselves, set ambitious goals, and support one another every step of the way.
Huge congratulations to Zoe on a superb half-marathon PB and to Steve on an exceptional marathon run and massive personal best. Both results are thoroughly deserved and a brilliant advert for dedication, smart training, and believing in the process.
Enjoy the well-earned recovery — and the rest of Spain! 💛💙
