The running capital of the world....

Marathon T

It is the first time I have ever been up to see the running of the London Marathon – and what an experience. I could have stood and applauded the efforts of everyone involved all day. As it was we managed to see a good few thousand in Greenwich – then saw Marathon T snr twice around Canary Wharf. We finished off on the Mall cheering home the runners coming in around the 6 hour mark. There was a lot of pain on show – but also a good deal of pride and a real sense of accomplishment on everyone’s face.

Marathon T snr came home in 3:54:00 slightly slower than he wanted, but he had a nightmare in the final 5 miles (just after seeing our smiling faces). The combination of cold and frequent rain showers finally did for his legs and he slowed noticeably over the final few miles. Still, he finished it on the 100 year anniversary of his mother’s birthday. It was a big performance and definitely my inspiration for the training ahead.

Memorable moments for me, obviously seeing the old codger in action, the Masai warriors running along in traditional dress, the army guys running in their boots and rucksacks (is it not tough enough already?), two Italian guys comparing split times on the way back to Gatwick with a guy from Belfast (3:08, 3:12 & 3:21 - they were all blown away by the experience) and the faces of the people around Canary Wharf as they struggled to break the 19 mile barrier (some heroic performances in the middle of the pack there).

Major respect also to the ‘runners world’ guys doing the world treadmill record. We went to cheer them on twice on Saturday (afternoon and late night). They were looking good both times – strolling along at 17.3kmh!! They did break the record in the end with a staggering 495 miles covered in 48 hours.

With the travelling and meeting times for the marathon I didn’t manage a run this weekend. But I am back today for a lunchtime gym session. Then back on track for the schedule this week.

As soon as I got back last night I registered my interest in the Jersey Marathon in October – inspiration and an internet connection are dangerous things.

So, what do you think Marathon B/C/J? Should the MoFo team ride again? Has this blog got another chapter to write? After the 13 mile warm up, should we go for a proper run?

Marathon T