Finish time 6:24:21

The best part of the Dublin Marathon for me was not the finish but the start. Such a fantastic atmosphere, surrounded by thousands of fellow runners, the sounds of laughter, excited anticipation, different languages and loudspeaker instructions; and many and varied costumes. Then all in line and singing the Irish National Anthem, and soon starting to move slowly towards the start line and beginning to run amid clapping and cheering and music.

The first half was a slow but steady pace. By about mile 16 my leg muscles started to feel the distance, and the Wall hit hard just as the gentle rain became fairly heavy. My pace slowed and by about mile 20, I was partially walking and shuffling and looking bedraggled. As the city centre approached and the end was a couple of miles away, I did my best to lift my head off the ground and cross the finish line in as near to a run as I could muster.

I'm very pleased and relieved I got through it and I will definitely continue running - its benefits are too many to do without. Will try and up my pace for the next race, whatever that may be. I'll think about that later though - once I'm back to walking normally again.

Thank you so much for all your support and your contributions to the two charities - it is very much appreciated.

Updated on Oct 31st 2011 at 7:39 AM from the JustGiving API

On my way up to Dublin. Nervous and excited all at the same time.

Updated on Oct 29th 2011 at 3:29 PM from the JustGiving API

Just registered and picked up my number among all the much fitter looking people. All a bit real now!

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

In a moment of Easter madness earlier this year, I signed up for the Dublin Marathon, taking place on the day of Halloween. I am not a natural athlete and have done virtually no running or other exercise properly in my life. I got it into my head however that I (as others have done) could indeed run 26.2 miles if sufficiently determined and with the requisite effort (and barring injury or disaster). Monday 31 October will put that theory to the test. And to make that day count for more than just a personal goal achieved, I would love to raise money for two local registered charities:- King's Somborne Village Hall and King's Somborne School Association.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. In this way more money is raised, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So if you can spare any sum at all, please donate. I would appreciate it very much.

Thanks, Ethna.