Is it possible/wise to run a marathon if you haven't done the long runs?

I had a very similar story to runs-with-dogs; having run 2 1.50 half marathons but nothing further, I ran the dartmoor vale marathon in October. It was HORRIFIC. I didn't take enough food and was eating jelly babies off the floor by about 15 miles

The run was part of some fundraising and although I was walking like I'd sh*t myself for the next week it was one of the most rewarding things i've ever done! Even managed a sub 4.30! I'd say go for it, just be warned that once you've done one you won't be able to stop... I've done 8 since

Depends on how good an athlete you are. If you are a 3 - 3 1/2 hr marathon runner or better running 30 - 40 mpw+ and the only issue is lack of long runs then take a minute a mile off your pace and fuel and hydrate like crazy. Gels and sports drinks.

If you are a 4+hr runner then you are going to struggle

Thanks for sharing your experiences, Slowfoot and JimBob. I'll definitely update this thread with how I get on, Cougie. I laughed at the thought of crying at the sight of stairs, Tim; while I still can laugh. I'm definitely in the 4+ hours group, Piers. My base pace is 7:45, which I could only maintain for 3 miles. For a marathon, I would aim for 9 minute miles, but prepared to walk when it become too much. The furthest I've ever run is 16 miles, so I would assume I could at least run that far. But at that pace and walking the final part, I would be pleased if I came in within 5 hours.

Jade Goody reportedly did just 4 hours of training, so the outcome of her marathon attempt wasn't surprising.

Gez lemon - I ran (sorry) completed the London marathon this year, after missing out on 5 weeks training due to injury. My longest run had been 14 miles, but I decided to do it anyway. I ran / walked from the start (at every mile marker I walked for a couple of minutes), and I took it very gently.

I had a great time, loved every minute of it. yes by mile 17 my hips were killing me, yes it took a very long time, but I'm glad I did it. I've even already signed up for Brighton next year, looknig for a new PB

Black and Tabby - fantastic; that's very encouraging, and sounds like a good strategy

Thanks, Piers. I'm a salty sweater, so plan to take electrolyte tablets to have at the water stations, and enough gels to top-up every 40 minutes. I haven't practiced enough with gels. I've managed PowerBar gels up to 13 miles and they've been fine, but when I ran 16 miles (only ever did that once), I found it difficult to take the final gel.

Fit-Running-Cat, good advice, thank you. I'm expecting to have to take 1 week off afterwards, but would rather not be totally wrecked. I want to enjoy the event, so running slower seems a good option.

Gez lemon - having typed my reply last night, thought of a few other things.

1. Don't have a time in mind. Your aim is to get around and enjoy it and finish

2. If you take it steady from the start, you will be running past people who went out too fast and are walking/staggering by the end - most satisfying!

3. if you need some inspirational reading, I recommend The non-runner's marathon Trainer Too late for the training, but some really great motivation PMA stuff!

4. Good luck -and do let us know whow you get on!

Black and Tabby - thanks very much for the pointers. I'll take it steady and post back here how I get on.

Well done Gez - 4.46 with or without a perfect training plan in that heat today is a remarkable achievement - enjoy the celebration !

Bloody good time Gez. You did well just getting round unscathed, I think. The heat did me in after 16 miles and I really struggled despite having done tons of training. I saw loads of people collapsed and paramedics putting in IV drips at the side of the road, which was a bit scary...