From the outside, it looked like Matt Smith spent the entire race smiling. We’re realistic enough to know that isn’t quite true, but at times, it genuinely felt that way.
Filled with good humour, an award-winning smile that stretches from ear to ear, and an optimism most of us would happily borrow, Matt carried himself through the race with a lightness that belied the effort beneath it.
At the finish in Faro, he was greeted by family – a welcome that stands among the greatest honours an athlete can receive at the end of something this physically and emotionally demanding. Applause followed him in, his son in his arms, as he crossed the line damp, tired, sore… and unmistakably happy.
He even found time to sled down one of the final hills… because of course he did.
Safe, surrounded by loved ones, and with the race now behind him, we can only say: well done Matt. It was an honour to have you out on the trail.
