Sue & Marks Marathon Challenge 2009

Flora London Marathon 2009 · 26 April 2009 ·
Thanks for visiting our fundraising page.
We would just like to say a BIG thank you to all of you, friends, family, colleagues and gym members who gave your support to us for our recent London Marathon Run.
Race day was absolutely awesome, we made the trip over to Greenwich on the train along with approx. 36000 other fellow runners where the excitement began. We all got lined up ready for the start and before we knew it we were off.
Winding our way through the streets of Greenwich past the Cutty Sark the stream of runners was almost endless. The streets were packed with spectators at every inch of the course shouting, cheering and clapping all of the many runners and walkers as they passed. Once we got into our stride and finally found some space we were able to settle down and take in some of the sights and sounds that make up the atmosphere of the London Marathon. Bands would be playing from out of the back of lorries, Tribal Bands playing drums in the under passes and pubs blasting out music to help keep everyone motivated and entertained. When we got out of Greenwich and onto Tower Bridge we could see the flags and balloons of the Whizz-Kidz cheering spot, it was a welcome sight at the 12-mile mark with everyone looking happy and cheering us on. It certainly gave us a boost for the next half of the course and sent us off towards Canary Wharf feeling lifted. By this time the sun was really starting to beat down on us all and the main focus was to stay hydrated as many people were starting to struggle and suffer with cramps. Fortunately due to our sensible planning we had been taking on small amounts of water throughout the race and also taking our energy gels to help keep us feeling strong and energised. Snaking our way through Canary Wharf, again the crowd support was fantastic with people absolutely everywhere and thankfully another Whizz-Kidz cheering spot which again boosted our stride. As we started to make our way out of the financial district, at about 17 miles fatigue was starting to set in so we took on another energy gel. Within 10-15 minutes it had kicked in and given us the confidence to feel as though we could make the last 8 miles. As we started to head our way back towards the river the crowds became thicker, the shouting and cheering even more intense and the atmosphere became electric. As we weaved our way through the streets towards the Embankment we saw the welcome faces of our supporters and at that point we realised it was only 3 miles to the finish.
At the 23 mile point Whizz-Kidz had set up there main Cheering Spot which was attended by the children who are directly supported by the charity and it was very emotional to see them all shouting and cheering us on. It made our all aches and pains seem worthwhile to see them, and it was then that it hit home why were doing this. Our pain was only to be temporary and the kind donations we have received really would make a difference to deserving kids like these.
Nearing the finish we could see Big Ben, but that was still about 1-½ miles from the finish but we dug in. On seeing some familiar faces so close to the finish line helped us keep moving and finally we crossed the finish line, in front of Buckingham Palace, in a very respectable 3hrs 43minutes and 49 seconds.
Following the race we were then treated to a great after race party at the Texas Cantina Embassy in Trafalgar Square, which was organised and hosted by the Whizz-Kidz Charity. They laid on free food, drink and sports massage for all runners which came as a very welcome relief
We would not hesitate in taking up one of their Golden Bond places in future events as we really did feel part of the team. The support that was provided throughout the training period, right through to the end of Marathon Day could not have been greater, it was simply a brilliant experience!
We would just like to thank all of the team at Whizz-Kidz for everything they did for us we really are grateful for there efforts.
We are still raising funds until 18th May 2009 so please dig deep & donate whatever you can
Sue & Mark
ps... don't forget our other charity site we are supporting (www.justgiving.com/clubmoativation)
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Whizz-Kidz gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
Charities pay a small fee for our service. Learn more about fees