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FSID ASKED A FEW QUESTIONS AFTER THE 2007 MARATHON! More of this interview can be found at http://www.fsid.org.uk/marathon-07.html
1. Why did you run the marathon?
I ran for two reasons. The first and main reason was in memory of my sister Samantha who would have celebrated her 25th birthday on 27th August this year - sadly she died aged 13 weeks. The second reason was to prove to myself that I COULD and WOULD do it!
2. Why did you choose FSID?
For Samantha, and as a continued thank you and promotion for a fantastic charity who have provided so much support since she died.
3. How did you fundraise the money?
Lots of letters! Friends and family were brilliant and there are so many local businesses who pledged money too. I stood in the school office, where I'm a teacher, after receiving a £100 cheque from a well-known hardware store, with tears just streaming down my face. Then I did it again a week later when a cheque came from the school photographers. The children at school were brilliant and helped me with the fundraising around Christmas. It's the generosity from those that you do not know that really makes it worthwhile.
4. How did the training go?
It was hard work and at times I thought I'd never make it out after a day at work. A friend from work offered to run with me on the cold, dark nights - and there were many! I've also discovered how uplifting it is to run in the rain. I gradually built up the mileage and added a couple of 'races' to keep me on track.
5. How did the day itself go?
I was a bag of nerves even though I'd done all I could in training and felt that I'd get to the end. When the gun went off and we walked through the start past the 'The Trap', by Ron Goodwin, the emotions really took hold. Running-wise it was far too hot for me, but I was ok until around mile 15 when the carbo-gel didn't like my stomach and I walked for a few miles. Seeing my brother on Tower Bridge and other family in Canary Wharf gave me a boost, and although quite stiff, my legs wanted to go again..... and stop..... and go... until the finish.
6. How did you feel crossing the finish line?
I was carrying 25 yellow gerberas from mile 25, and I was determined to run the rest. The last 1000m were the longest ever. I could hear people shouting my name and commenting on the flowers, yet I felt as though I was dreaming. Turning the corner into the Mall, I was so proud of what I'd achieved that I forgot to look at Buckingham Palace. I could see my parents with cameras at the ready and gave them a big wave. I managed to run to the end, ecstatic that I'd made it. I strangely didn't feel tired - the endorphins were working overtime!
7. Would you do it again?
What a silly question- of course I would - and will..... AND AM IN 2008!
Many thanks for your support.
Tracy x
