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I made it - all 42.195km - in a very slow 4 hours and 46 minutes. It was the hottest ever for thisrace with temperatures hitting 36 degrees C and in spite of many miles of training, the heat was just too much for me to run fast. I admit having to walk a bit in the later stages of the race when the mercury really started to rise, and the crippling pain in my toes became unbearable. Crowd support was great, with frequent cries of "courage" and "bravo" from spectators, many of whom were in fancy dress and party mood themselves. I did take part in a few "tests oenosportifs" on the way round, though diligently spat all the wines out again ( hot enough without the dehydrating effects of alcohol).
All in all, the Marathon du Medoc is a great experience and at least I'm still here and still running. I even finished 1328th out of 7108, and 87th out of 646 in my age group.
It's still not too late to sponsor me to raise money for the breast cancer team at the Macmillan Primrose Oncology unit at Bedford Hospital. It is just over a year since I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and the treatment and support I have received has been fantastic. The unit was only made possible by charitable fundraising and continues to rely on charity to enable it to provide treatment locally.
Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Bedford Hospitals Charity will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you. The charity has agreed to transfer the funds raised to the breast cancer team.
So please do sponsor me now.
A huge thank you to everyone for their support so far both on and off line.
Caroline
