“I have run 799 marathons, Congo River Marathon will be the 800th”

Alex Lundahl from Denmark is running his 800th marathon in the heart of Kinshasa. His 3 tips for marathon first timers: "Exercise well, use your strength wisely and make sure to drink enough.

Can you introduce yourself to our running community?

My name is Alex Lundahl, from Denmark, 73 years old, retired, and a passionate runner.

When did you start with running and what do you love most about it? 

I started running back in 1980. I enjoy the nature, the exercise and the friendship amongst my fellow runners.

When and where did you run your first marathon? 

My first marathon was in the city of Aarhus, Denmark, in 1982

How many marathons have you run so far? 

During 41 years, I have run 799 marathons and 1 ultra, in 33 different countries.

What excites you to run the 2023 Congo River Marathon? 

I look forward to see and experience the nature in a new country, and the excitement of running in yet another foreign country.

Your most beautiful place to run:

My most beautiful and distinctive experience was on the inland ice of Greenland, second was running on the Chinese Wall.

You best running memory:

My greatest memory was from the marathon in Greece, starting in the city of Marathon and finishing in Athens.

Your biggest learning from running:

I have learned to handle my physical resources in an effective way, so my body can cope with many kilometers and don’t get injured.

Three trips for marathon beginners, running their first marathon:

Exercise well, use your strength wisely and make sure to drink enough.