A RECORD number of participants started last Sunday's Amsterdam Marathon under perfect running circumstances: clear blue skies, a light breeze and a pleasant fresh temperature.

Among the participants were West Devon's Dave and Louisa Chanter running the 8km and their very good friend Antonio Mansi from Ravello, Italy, participating in the full marathon — good times were had by all.

The atmosphere in the Olympic Stadium was amazing, and the residents of Amsterdam provided a warm welcome.

The fantastic weather and some changes to the course resulted in a significant tightening of the course record. The Ethiopian athlete Getu Feleke ran a world-class time of 2.05.44.