Stage 34, a 20 miler from Apatin to Bezdan and a guided run tour with @milos that took us along trails and paths I would never have explored myself. It meant a few more miles but I got to see so much more and running in such good company was fantastic.
Milos met me at 7am and our route took us quickly by the @jelen brewery. Home to northern Serbia’s No.1 beer. We quickly hit the Danube for another spectacular morning by the river. This time I had Milos to reveal all sorts of knowledge. Like islands in the. Isle they are usually submerged but not have forests growing due to the low waters. He showed me areas that are often under water but now stand dry and explained about the dangers this mighty river can present to boats, swimmers and anyone who venture into the fast-moving flow.
We ran dyke roads and forests, climbed towers to get spectacular views. Picked and ate apples and plums on the run. Chatted about running, ultras, Serbia’s history, immigrant camps (there’s one in Milos’ town). He also revealed to me why there are circle holes cut in the roads. I’ve run lay loads of them and wondered what they are. These are to enable explosives to be inserted quickly in the event of war to blow up the main roads.
After the run we headed back to Milos’ house where his family fed me wonderful food and drinks, we picked raspberries off the vines from their fields and I got the warmest of welcomes. And clean running kit. I can’t tell you how incredibly generous and kind his mum, dad, sister and grandma were. Made me feel like part of the family. Gave me a place to sleep and a sanctuary.
A word about Milos. A 17-year-old worldly wise well beyond his years. The most welcoming, generous spirited, smart young man. It’s been an absolute pleasure to spend time with him. And he has made my last few days in Serbia very memorable. And his kindness and energy will send me across the border tomorrow with a full heart. In fact, with everyone else I’ve met here, I don’t really want to leave. But tomorrow we go again.
