“If running a marathon is nice, doing it in Cuba becomes extraordinary”
With 1,300 international participants, Mexico is the country with more runners in Marabana. For this reason, we have talked to the Mexican Susana Delgado, popular runner from Zapopan, Jalisco, who travelled to Cuba to debut in Marabana, an experience that marked her so positively that she returned to the Island just two months later.
- Why did you decide to run a marathon in Cuba?
I wanted to run a marathon outside my country. So, when I saw the date of Marabana, I thought it was perfect for the training plans I was carrying.
- How was your experience in Marabana?
To take part in Marabana has been the most beautiful feeling I have ever experienced. If running a marathon is nice, doing it at sea level and in Cuba becomes extraordinary.
- How did you experience the atmosphere of Marabana?
It was a very nice experience. All the staff and volunteers who were in the water station points were very kind, they were all the race giving encouragement to the participants and this is greatly appreciated.
- What surprised you the most about the race?
It has an exigent route but very beautiful at the same time. It was a challenge for me to run in a different place, we are used to always training in the same places and you believe that what you have experienced will be the same anywhere in the world. I am very proud to have finished the race despite the bad weather conditions (that’s how my Coach Jose Antonio Cortes Meza, Rebasa-T Coach, the team I belong to let me know)
- Was it the first time you traveled to Cuba? Did you like the island?
Yes, it was the first time I travelled to Cuba and I liked it so much that I came back in February, just two months later, to celebrate my birthdate. Now I am sure I will return to Marabana with a clear objective; to break my time on the race (less than 4 hours).
- What would you say to those who have doubts about taking part in Marabana?
I would tell them not to think about it anymore, that they will surely experience something extraordinary. Marabana is a great event with a fantastic atmosphere. They will not regret it.
