My Forum

You could try the Milton Keynes NSPCC Half on 7 July or the Wycombe Half on 21 July. I'll probably be doing one or both of them. There's also the Down Tow Up Flow Half on 28 July.

I originally bought the Adidas Kanadias but found the lugs unsuitable for road running. I've since moved to the Brooks ASR GTX and love them. They're exactly the same fit as my trusty Adrenaline GTS 12s but they keep my feet dry and warm in cold/wet conditions, as well as providing a bit of extra grip on slippery roads. I'm not sure how they'd cope with full-on snow/ice, or in hardcore trail running, but they suit me fine for now.

I got round my first marathon unscathed and had a really enjoyable day. Did it in just over 5 hours (not sure exactly what, as I forgot to stop my watch) so not up there with the other times posted. Still, I'm pleased although I imagine at some point a little disappointment will arise for missing the 5-hour mark.

I can only echo what has already been said about the support. The people around towns and villages were great, whether standing specifically to watch, passing in cars or just passing in the street, but most importantly the Marshals were SUPERB. I don't know how a group of people can stand around for so long, some of them in quite isolated spots, and still have a massive genuine smile on their face as you pass and know exactly the right thing to say to cheer you on. I made a point of thanking as many as I could, even if they didn't cheer me. It's usually such a thankless task.

Brilliant BRILLIANT day. I'm so glad I did it and now have a month or two of 'running for fun' before training for #2 begins. And I have a chunky time to aim at.

Thanks to everyone who supported me on here, especially in the last few days of taperchondria and maranoia.