I have visited four F1 race before: Suzuka, Monza, Indianapolis, Monaco
but not Spa Francorchamps, which would be on my top-3 races (with Monaco
and Suzuka). I was not going to see the F1 race this time either, but going
to race myself. Unfortunately the season of the track was not started yet
and no possibility to rent-a-drive. I had to do my six laps around this
7km cirtuit 6 times by my own feet.
Those who follow F1 races, might know the famous Eau Rouge.
It is a curvey downhill-uphill right-left combination that is
famouse due to its many
crashes. Only the best drivers go through it flat out
without lifting the gas pedal. Kimi "iceman" Räikkönedoes it
even through
smoke screen.
I was going to do the same: Eau Rouge - flat out.
Only gravitation can slow me down.
Not everyone realize the steepness of the Eau Rouge, and the
hilliness of the entire 7km course. It is in mountain area and
have several ups and downs. Eau Rouge itself is not long but
steep. In total, one lap has 190m elevation gain, counting
in total 6x190m = 1140m during the full marathon.
Split: Total: Pace:
Lap 1 00:33:25 4:46 min/km
Lap 2 00:33:36 1:07:03 ...
Lap 3 00:35:56 1:42:50
Lap 4 00:37:37 2:20:36
Lap 5 00:39:30 3:00:08
Lap 6 00:40:23 3:40:31
Conclusion
A bit complex three day travel (Joe-Hel-Brussells-Spa-Antwerpen-Ams-Hel-Joe)
which I split into smaller pieces to make it slow travel. I spent
every night in different city parts to keep it enjoyable.
Spa-Francorchamps was a bit dull country-side place,
besides the race track and the marathon. I managed to have a glance of Brussell,
Liege, Verviers, Leuven and Antwerpen. Only Brussell I knew beforehand.
Based on these short visits, Belgium seems relaxed place to travel.
Overall, very nice trip. It was fun to go around the F1 circuit.
If I counted correctly, this was my 57'th marathon, and 30'th country.
I hope to have one more before the summer. Some travel pics belows.
