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"I entered the London Marathon in August 2002 and despite being
successful in my application, it became apparent to me (and the bathroom scales) in early 2003 that I was never going to make it. Why? Quite
simple, lack of training. Thankfully I was able to defer my place to the following
year.
Having completed numerous local 10k runs and Great North Run Half Marathon, the natural step was to attempt the London Marathon. Training
for 26 miles is much different, your lifestyle has to change - fewer beers after work and no spicy foods - life was pretty dull!
I make no apologies for admitting that I was extremely nervous during the final week leading up to the marathon. The training guides state
that 'you must rest and not complete vigorous exercise', which is difficult to accept having spent the past four months pounding the streets.
The big day. Firstly, I would like to thank my family, friends and (particularly) Amanda for supporting me on a cold, wet and windy Sunday
morning in the capital. Atmosphere and adrenaline meant I skipped through the first 13 miles comfortably - perhaps too quickly. Miles sixteen to eighteen were really tough and had it not been for someone in
the crowd offering me a slab of chocolate I'm not sure I would have made it. Replenished, and helped on by another loud cheer from my support
group at 21 miles, I cruised home in 4 hours and 2 minutes.
The training was hard, the actual run very tough, but it is great to be able to say "I have completed the London Marathon". Notwithstanding the
personal satisfaction I have taken from this experience, the charity for which I was raising money and the tremendous effort by all those
involved kept me going on those December nights and in those last few miles.
Bring on the next one, New York...? |
