This week I was on holiday in Fuerteventura. My training plan said that running was optional.

Of course, I was going to run. I LOVE running on holiday! To be able to head out and explore when no one else is about. It gives a fresh perspective.

I was under instruction to keep my runs at 5k, which I was fine with. I could have broke that rule, but I was quite happy with a 30 minute run before snoozing by the pool all day. It’s what holidays are all about!

So, what is the Corralejo Cup?

It’s something I made up. I was walking back to the hotel and saw a leisure centre with some Olympic rings outside. It made me think, why don’t I have a bit of fun with these runs?

I was nervous about the outcome of a job interview I had just before travelling (spoiler: I got the job!) so this was a fun distraction.

Run 1: Explore

The first run involved getting my bearings and familiarising myself with the area. Corralejo is beautiful, you can see both Lobos island and Lanzarote in the distance. I ran through the old town and into the strip.

What filled me with joy was seeing so many other runners out and about. Some were speedy, some were out for a leisurely jog. One bloke wore a Team GB vest, clearly in the Olympic spirit!

As I was close to finishing on the docks, I saw a beautiful black and white cat. I was able to pet it and it made my morning! A successful run for sure, despite having a little kitty cat break before the finish.

Run 2: Trail

There are so many trails in Corralejo and Fuerteventura as a whole really! I felt this would be a great opportunity to pop onto the trails and see what’s out there.

For those who know me well know that I’m a bit naff on the trails. Something usually happens, but I was looking forward to the adventure.

I found one path by the beach that suddenly cut off so I turned back round. As I headed down the road I knew there was a proper turn off somewhere, but where?

I decided to turn right which led me to a car park. Behind the car park was a lot of trails. I later discovered that I’d long missed the turn off but I was on my way.

Until the path cut off again. In the distance, I could see the main path. If I could just get over there it would be fine.

It was so rocky. I walked a big chunk of it because I’m not a fell runner (I’m a fall down runner lol). It was very peaceful and enjoyable.

Eventually I got onto the main path and by this point I was done with the run. I headed back to the main road and sprinted past some runners like the twat I am and it was another good job done. Gold medal for stupidity.

Run 3: Intervals

It would be silly not to get a bit of speed work in!

No idea why I made it my last run though. A week of alcohol and unhealthy food does not make a good running combo. This is the magic of the Corralejo Cup though!

After a quick 1 mile warm up I planned to run some efforts up and down the docks. Nothing special, but good fun.

I did 4 in total and in hindsight I should have done 5 or 6. This is where I’m missing my running club. They would have pushed me to do another 2 when I couldn’t be arsed.

I got it done, my efforts were all progressively quicker and I’m pleased I did at least something.

I then ran 1 final mile to make it 5k and this marked the final of the Corralejo Cup.

Final thoughts

I had a really good time doing this, as I wasn’t following a set marathon plan this week it made the runs fun.

It had a bit of everything. I always have fun injecting different paces, mainly to remind myself that I can run at speed.

Just maybe not when I’m full of alcohol… haha!

What are your thoughts about running on holiday?