I just spent an idle half hour looking through last year's Almeria snaps, and am beginning to feel shamelessly excited about this year.
It will be different this time, though I think all the changes are potentially good ones. A much bigger party (in all senses of the word); a different airport, and a 2 or 3 hour meandering drive down to Almeria; race registration and the pre-race meal at the hotel; more time to relax on the Tuesday.
I'm also happier about the prospect of the race than I have been for the last couple of years. Last year I had that nagging knee problem, and just plodded round the 10K. Year before I was just out of condition, and wasn't far off finishing last in the half. It's a shame I've missed 3 weeks of training, but still, I feel fitter than I have done for a while so I think I'll get round more comfortably this time. No PB attempt planned -- I just want to enjoy the occasion.
Bring it on!
El Gordo
Great things are done when men and mountains meet.