I've been excited about my upcoming trip to Europe for months, but I've been struggling to see past a big event which happened this weekend.

One of my "big" goals this year was to complete another marathon and improve my finishing time. Gold Coast is the course to do it, cause it's flat, fast and I've been there before.

Trent and I had a fun weekend with Kazzy, Macgyver, Suz, Mellini, Nic and Mat. Nic did great in her debut marathon, as did Mel in her half mara. Poor Kazzy had a few problems with her tummy which stopped her doing her best, but as usual, finished with a smile. Macgyver was a great support, and fanged around on a scooter; popping up in random places with a big smile, a tub of vaso and some cramp spray. Trent did well to get to the start line and make it 3/4 through the race before pulling the pin with cramps. Suz and I followed those green pace balloons for as long as we could before our legs got too tired and those balloons floated away into the distance. We still finished with a good time on the clock so we've no complaints.

Well done to my mates from the PwC days - Mark F and Zlats who also finished their first marathon and are already planning their next assault. Good stuff!

Thanks to coach Kristian who wrote me a 4-week intensive marathon program to get me ready. I wasn't in great running shape in my last triathlon, so I've gone from a personal worst to a personal best in 28 days. I like it :)

Now I'm packing my bags and heading to the land of schnitzels, beer and bakeries and I am giddy with excitement. See you soon Gorman!