From the Sea to a Home Away from Home

Daily miles: 37.09 | Total miles: 13,180.9

I got up at 6 a.m., had a cold coffee, and went through the usual routine. At 7 a.m., I was in the lobby and met Dario. He showed me to the table where breakfast was waiting. I sat down and the gourmet deluxe spoiling began. A plate with vegetables, one with fruits, and one with pastries. Then he brought me scrambled eggs. I could have had yogurt and more, but I was already more than happy. He also brought me a cappuccino with a smiley face on top—a great way to start the day.

I ate the fruits, vegetables, and eggs and packed the rest for the road. Thank you to @atleticomottense for organizing a room for me in Caorle.

When I stepped outside, I knew it would be a good day. Yesterday I had a video call with the people who would welcome me in Mestre, and I was already looking forward to meeting them. It was overcast, mild, and the roads were surprisingly empty—an easy and relaxed start out of Caorle.

And you know, Caorle has a special meaning for me. My grandaunt, Tante Rosi, whom I loved dearly and still love dearly, went on vacation to Caorle several times. It was always hard for me to imagine what that place might look like. Now I at least have a bit of an impression.

Tante Rosi, you were a great inspiration to me. Probably the one who showed me best that action speaks much louder than words.

Remembering people, places, and their stories along the way—what could be better than that?

The run from Caorle to Mestre took me partly along bicycle paths, partly along narrow roads with busy traffic, through small towns and eventually into Mestre, a larger town where I had to navigate around a tram line. The weather stayed fairly nice, and I found a comfortable rhythm for most of the day.

About an hour before arriving, I sent a message to the people I had spoken with. And who would have thought—they were already waiting for me on the road with a banner from the Venice Marathon Running Team. Matteo, Claudio, and Christine welcomed me right at the end of my run, and a bit later I also met Federica. What a warm reception! Pictures were taken, and they even gave me a new outfit from the Venice Marathon 2025. I felt incredibly happy and grateful.

Matteo explained that I could rest a bit before dinner. Mariapaola, Claudio, Emma, and Emily welcomed me into their home and showed me the Airbnb apartment where I could stay tonight. I organized a few things, took a shower, and at 8 p.m. we all gathered for dinner. Paula, Matteo’s wife, joined as well, and Mariapaola had prepared a wonderful meal.

The evening was lively, loving, supportive—just wonderful. A fantastic group of people. Once again, I felt completely at home and truly taken care of. Experiences like this mean so much to me.

I cannot thank you enough for the love and support.

Molte grazie.

Grazie Matteo Pinton and Claudio Negri.

Buona notte. A domani, Andrea