My Forum

Another highlight -- I took a rest within the last mile, just around the corner from the racetrack, another runner screamed at me"come on, you're nearly there" and then kept screaming at me until I got into the racetrack "come on! come on!"

It was really loud, but exactly what I needed, so if it was you, wearing a white adidas vest and you were shouting at the blond bloke in the union flag vest, thank you.

I think I may have already said how tough I am, but I couldn't help filling up with emotion all the way round. I even shed a tear on the M56 going home, which wasn't wise at 85 mph because the salt on my face ran straight into my eyes!

"We wish you a merry marathon" it was just brilliant - I've already mentioned how tough I am, but I certainly got a lump in my throat then.

Also the woman at 24 miles shouting random support - mega, she really got me going again.

Did anyone else notice, at around mile 7, the straight mile road, there were loads and loads of really long worms?

As for yesterday - as promised, after the race --- pissed. Had 2 bottles of cold beer whilst lying in the bath, and then more with my curry. Followed by a very early night.

The Rolls Royce of marathons - everyone was so friendly, helpful, smiley and really considerate. When I stopped for a breather at aroud 23 miles, one of the marslls came over to me "Are you okay. Can I do anything to help". It was just terrific

The Tattenhall drinks station was very galmorous too.

When I crossed the line in a PB by 25 seconds (3h 47m) , I was absolutely done in, and to be greeted by someone there to shake my hand and congratulate me was really emotional, and I nearly started to cry - but because I'm really tough, I just about held it together!

I then had to lean on the table holding all the water becauise I was so knackered, and the St Johns ambulance man, quietly watched to make sure I was okay.

I love this race.

Thank you to all the helpers, marshalls, organisers and people who came out to support (especially around Farndon), I had a great day.

I was aiming for sub 3.45 but can't grumble at geting a PB.

I'll be in 3.45 pen, union flag vest, black gloves (only for a mile or so), but will be wandering around in a top covered in paint splashes, just to keep warm before the start. Look out for the short haired blond bloke with a really bloody stiff neck, honestly I can hardly look sideways - it's a good job I'll be running in a straight line.

About to have a glass of wine before bed.

Good luck everyone.

Mike

Number 1567 - Union flag vest, I also wear a 'don't talk to me' scowl, but I can't help the way I look.

Gloves for me tomorrow for a couple of miles. I've got an old pair of really thin black ones, or some white cotton ones. I thought I might wear the white ones and do some miming at the start. I could pretend I'm in a box? Or pretend I'm a runner?