Originally, this was supposed to be my first marathon. After running several half-marathons and completing the 33.333 km Sylt Run, I felt ready to tackle the full marathon distance. But as it often happens, things didn’t go exactly according to plan.
About the Run
I wanted my first marathon to be on a flat course, which is why I chose the Essen Marathon around Lake Baldeneysee. Although the marathon consists of two laps around the lake, the idea of running almost entirely along the water was very appealing. The flat terrain was perfect for a first marathon attempt, or so I thought.
The trip to Essen was convenient since I combined the race with a visit to family in Düsseldorf. We traveled early in the morning, making it a manageable journey. Only later did I discover that the Essen Marathon is the oldest marathon event in Germany, adding even more significance to the race.
However, my plans changed. I have a lot of respect for the 42.195 km marathon distance, and I knew that proper preparation was essential. Unfortunately, my training in the weeks leading up to the race hadn’t been sufficient. Various factors, including a busy work schedule and minor injuries, limited my training, so I made the tough decision to skip the marathon and opted for the shorter Seerunde (Lake Loop) distance of 17.4 km instead.
Event and Organization
The organization was top-notch. The TUSEM Essen, the club responsible for hosting the event, delivered a thoroughly professional experience. Everything went smoothly, from registration to course support and logistics. I was particularly impressed by the dedication of the volunteers, who brought a great deal of enthusiasm and heart to the event. You could tell that this race was not just a competition but a cherished tradition for both the club and the city.
The Course
The race started near the beach club on the promenade, right by Lake Baldeneysee. From there, the course took us on a scenic, relaxed loop around the lake. To the right, we had a continuous view of the lake, while to the left, the landscape was filled with lush greenery. The entire course is paved and mostly flat, making it ideal for those aiming for a personal best or runners who prefer a consistent, smooth surface.
The atmosphere on the course was fantastic. Unlike larger marathons where you’re surrounded by thousands of participants, the Essen event had a more intimate feel, which made for a much more relaxed running experience. The smaller number of participants and the friendly, supportive spectators scattered along the route gave the race a community feel. At no point did I feel overwhelmed or rushed, which allowed me to fully enjoy the scenic surroundings and focus on my own pace.
Conclusion
Although I didn’t run the marathon as planned, the Seerunde turned out to be one of my most enjoyable and fastest races. Looking back now, I can confidently say that postponing the marathon was the right decision. Sometimes, you have to listen to your body and know when to step back—and I did just that.
Years later, I’m still happy with my choice. The Essen Marathon remains one of my favorite race memories, not only for its impeccable organization but also for its scenic and peaceful course. For anyone considering their first marathon, I highly recommend it. With its flat route and friendly atmosphere, it’s perfect for beginners looking to experience their first marathon in a welcoming environment.
