The Rome Marathon 2025, now in its thirtieth edition, was held on Sunday, March 16th with great success, attracting over 50,000 participants and spectators. The race, part of the Jubilee 2025 events, was attended by 28,000 marathon runners, making it the most popular Italian marathon in history. The route, which passed through some of the capital’s most iconic locations, started at the Colosseum and finished at the Circus Maximus, offering runners a unique view of the city’s historic monuments.
Among the participants in this year’s Rome Marathon is Father Paulo Morais, a Brazilian Redemptorist from the Province of Aparecida, who ran the entire distance and shares his impressions with Scala News readers.
Fr. Paulo, how would you introduce yourself in a few words?
My name is Paulo Roberto de Morais Júnior, I’m 37 years old, a Redemptorist missionary from Brazil and a student of Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University. Since I was a child, I’ve always had a passion for sports, which I still carry with me today.
Last Sunday you participated in the marathon. How was the race?
The Rome Marathon was an incredible experience! Running through the streets of this historic city, surrounded by so many other runners and the enthusiasm of the crowd, was something unique. The challenging course required a lot of preparation and endurance, but every kilometer covered brought with it a great sense of accomplishment. More than the last time, the joy of crossing the finish line after so many months of training and dedication was an indescribable feeling for me.
Why did you decide to run the Rome Marathon?
I’d always wanted to run a full marathon and doing it in Rome made the experience even more special. I lived in the city for a few months for my studies, and running through its historic streets was a unique way to experience the connection with the place. Furthermore, the Rome Marathon is a challenging and meaningful race, both for the route and the atmosphere. I also wanted to challenge myself, push my limits, and experience this unforgettable experience in a setting so rich in culture, history, and beauty at every turn.
Is this your first time running such a long distance?
Yes, it was my first full marathon. In Brazil, I had already participated in a few half marathons and smaller races, such as the 5K and 10K. I’ve also always enjoyed physical challenges and have gone on long walks and hikes. However, the 42 kilometers of the marathon represented a completely new challenge, demanding greater physical and mental preparation.
How did you prepare for the marathon?
Preparing for the Rome Marathon was a long and challenging process. I started with regular running workouts, gradually increasing the distance to get used to the prolonged effort. I also did strength training to improve my muscular endurance and prevent injuries. I also paid attention to nutrition and rest, which are essential to ensuring race performance. I had the help of a physical education professional, who gave me advice on training, technique, and recovery. Each week my body adapted better to the challenges, and my motivation grew as I approached the marathon.
Where does your passion for sports come from? Do you practice any other sports besides running?
My passion for sports goes back a long way, to my childhood. At that time, I practiced soccer, swimming, and karate, which helped me develop discipline, technique, and mental control. Over time, I fell in love with running because it gives me a sense of freedom and self-improvement. Besides running, I also enjoy hiking and outdoor activities, which allow me to connect with nature and challenge my limits in other ways.
How do you balance sport with your other responsibilities, with your Redemptorist vocation?
Sports are an important part of my life. Running and other physical activities help me maintain my health and energy, allowing me to be more focused and present in my responsibilities. This balance is also essential during this period of study, as the intense routine of research and lessons demands concentration and discipline. Sports offer me a respite, a space for mental and physical rest, allowing me to return to my studies with renewed vigour. Sports are also an opportunity for reflection and prayer: many of my workouts are moments of silence and introspection. I see sports as a way to take care of myself so I can better serve others.
Your final thoughts?
Running a marathon is more than a physical challenge: it’s a metaphor for life, reflecting the importance of discipline, sacrifice, and determination. As Pope Paul VI emphasized: “Sport is a path of asceticism! As an antidote to laxity, indolence, and abandonment! No teacher can be more demanding than sport! How much discipline, spirit of sacrifice, self-control, courage, and determination it requires!”
Thank you and congratulations again!
Scala News
