Dear Friends,

As you're probably aware by now, myself and Nicola completed one of the most difficult London Marathons on record in 5 hours and 50 minutes (see pic above - Chewbacca stayed with us all the way !). In the freakish heat of 22nd of April 2007 we endured many ups and downs to finally conquer the 26.2 miles.

With water at a premium and people dropping like flies around us, we were relieved to make it round in one piece. We managed to chat to all of our support and to fellow Roys Runners on the way round. Nicola stayed true to form by popping in to an office to use their nice clean toilet. Nice one Nick.

The run was emotional at times. We had pictures of Mum on us so we could look to her for inspiration during the tough times. Unknown to Nicola I cried a couple of times behind my sunglasses when I thought of why were running this insane distance. After being cheered on by Anna and the Kids and most of Anna's extended family, we crossed the line holding hands and hugged just a short way over the line. It was over. Nearly a year of planning. Thinking about it every day. Eating and drinking. Stretching and icing. Walking and running. We'd done it. We'd really done it.

Seems a bit weird now it's all over. If it was possible, I am now closer to Nicola. The joy and happiness the Marathon brought into our lives was most welcome, especially at a time when we were feeling so low. To share this experience with her has been a privilege. On race day, I was the one making her stop to walk, she never complained once. An unbelievably strong woman.

I'd also like to thank my darling wife Anna and my children. Anna had to live with Marathon Fever for nearly a year and put up with all sorts in the run up to the big day. She washed my smelly kit hundreds of times without complaint, her sundays were turned upside down by my long runs and she had to listen to my private doubts when things got tough. Anna braved the crowds on the big day with three young children including a buggy. To see their beautiful faces in the distance, cheering me on made all the difference. I couldn't have done it without them. 

I like to thank my Dad for all of his support. He headed up Team Luck with his magic bag of water, gels, sweets etc. To have someone so organised and dedicated on side during a day of uncertainty was a god-send.

Thanks to all my support that came on the day. I really appreciated it.

Finally, I want to say a massive thank you to all of my sponsors including the offline donators below :

Marion and Derek Smith : £100
Uncle Jimmy in Canada : £100
Martin Smith : £10
Richard Smith : £10
Caine Snashfold : £100
Paul Farrell : £20
Tony Whittle : £26.20
Tracie Kerton : £25
Gill Sear : £10 
Chris at the Village Store : £40

I like to believe that my Mum was looking down on me and Nicola as we slogged round. I think she would have been proud of her children. I think she would have been proud of all of us.

Martin Luck - 6th May 2007.