Sandy, a Marble Rally journalist, rolled towards the podium finishers for their post-race interviews after the medal ceremony. Slimer, as the race winner, went first.
“First win in six years… but you’ve certainly had success in between. How did it feel to finally return to the top step?” Sandy inquired.
“It was euphoric, of course, but I also feel a sense of vindication and relief,” Slimer replied. “After so many near-misses, I knew that victories were what I needed to be able to challenge for a championship. Finishing 3rd and 4th is awesome, no doubt, but after achieving that, my goals have always been on top.”
“Many regard you as the marble that pulls off the best second-half comebacks,” remarked Sandy, met with a chuckle from Slimer. “Did you think this was coming and should you be one to look out for in the final three rounds?”
“Haha, I know I have a reputation for that, yeah. I think it comes down to your mindset: the Marble Rally is as much of a mental sport as a physical one and the pressure ramps up towards the end of a season. I didn’t want to expect anything, because no one’s owed success, but I do think that I should be one to look out for. I’d say that at any part of the season, really.”
Thanks for your time, Slimer, and congratulations on your well-deserved victory,” said Sandy. “On to you, Ducktape!”
“P2, and another podium in the bag. You’re positioned very well in 4th for your best career result, how have you managed it this season?”
“Thank you, and yeah, it’s been great so far. I feel much more experienced this season, and after the previous, I know what I’m capable of. That added bit of confidence helped me in getting this,” replied Ducktape, motioning to their gleaming silver medal.
“What’s on your mind heading into the final three rounds?”
“Wins, and an overall podium. This is my best shot at it and I won a race late in the game last time too. The championship looks out of reach, but never say never.”
“Thank you, Ducktape, and well done on your hard-fought P2. Finally, Lollipop!” exclaimed Sandy.
“Amazing race, finishing on the podium starting from P15! How did you do it?”
“Thanks so much! Staying off the wall at the start was very important, it helped me get in the mix. This race had so many DNFs, I knew I had to take my time to keep it clean at some points, and struck late to snag P3.”
“After a difficult start to the season, how does it feel to return to your Season 5 form?”
“Yeah, the earlier races were not what I wanted for sure, but it’s about how you respond to failure. That’s what I lived by and what kept me going, and to reap the rewards of it has been lovely,” said Lollipop with a smile.
“Thanks for your time, and congrats once again.”
Credits
- Writer: Ramen Powder
- Photographer: Jelle’s Marble Runs
- Reference: Marble Rally S6 – Race 7 | Jelle’s Marble Runs
- Release: 24/03/2023
Project Marblearth 