Story
I've just run the New York City Marathon on 2nd November 2014 to raise money for Friends International who have endured me as a Trustee for the last eight years.
They do great work with the thousands of international students who study in the UK and I'd be really encouraged, especially through the painful last few miles, if between us we are able to raise some funds to help their valuable work.
>>>> Marathon Day Report <<<<
Phew, it's over!
You may have seen on the news that marathon day was a bit cooler and much windier than usual - and it was ...
After a 4am alarm and several hours sitting outside in the cold, it was a relief to actually get started at about 10:15 yesterday morning. It's a fabulous experience to run through the five boroughs with some fantastic views and so much enthusiastic support. There was some great music, and some that was just loud, but both types were really helpful.
Managed to get a hug from Supporter #1 at both our planned meeting points near miles 19 and 22 which was a big boost, and lots of people had signs and banners with a touch of New York humour: 'Your legs are tired because you're kicking butt'; "This is the worst parade ever"; "Toe-nails are for wimps'; "Hurry up the Kenyans are drinking all the beer"!
After a good first half with quite a regular pace, miles 21+ were pretty challenging, but the sight of Central Park towards the end was very welcome, and I crossed the line after 4 hours 7 minutes.
Thanks for your support, together we broke £100/mile which was a huge encouragement.