Well what a day, it was hot... damn hot!
'Sweat is the cologne of accomplishment' someone once said, but when you've perspired enough to fill a maxi size bottle of Brut 33 by the 3rd mile of a marathon you know you're in for a rough ride!
High on Lucozade Sport, energy gels and jelly babies supplied by the fantastic supporters I managed to complete the course in four hours, thirty two minutes and six seconds and finished 13121 overall (mens) and 2485 in the 35 age group. Respectable but way off my target of sub 4 hours but I was happy to get around in one piece.
Psychologically, 20 miles was the half way mark, at which point the bandy legs got bandier, the stiff knees got rustier and the muscles got tighter until by the 23rd mile I felt as though I was running slow-motion in quick sand, constantly adjusting my running position as my various leg muscles took turns going into spasm. I was pleased to see the finish line to say the least.
A post-event reception held by Wheelpower and the Brain and Spine Foundation re-affirmed my enthusiasm for the London Mararthon and helping to raise money for these great causes, with the help of you, is the biggest buzz of all.
So it remains to say a huge thanks for your donations and words of encouragement, a big thanks also to all at marketforce for their support and to Wheelpower.
The knobbly knees made it through! Anyone fancy joining me next year?
Justin
