My Forum

When I first broke 90 for a round of golf, I felt that was it, I would always be able to repeat that. It didn't turn out that way. Likewise, when I ran 2 sub-4 marathons in 6 weeks 3 years ago, I thought I had hit on a successful formula to keep trotting out sub-4 marathons.

But several hamstring injuries later and with a busy life that means I am either training tired or struggling to fit it in, I know that each tough, slower marathon is part of the valley floor that makes the lofty peaks of those sub-4s so satisfying. We do marathons because they are so tough to succeed in, and so great when we do.

Well done Susannah. I also knew by mile 8 or so that there was no chance of a fast time, and it does become mentally tough to just get round if you know so early that that is all it will be. You did very well on a tough day.

Fez - that medal was hard earned and should definitely not be binned. Look at it occasionally to remember how hard you pushed on such a hot day in a congested race. That way, when you get to another marathon with better running weather and no London congestion, you will get that quick time. Besides 4:15 yesterday is worth a lot less on a cooler day without packed roads you struggle to run freely on.

Just seen Tutu with her funky metallic toenails on This Morning. And I watched back the highlights and saw her finish just behind Matthew Pinsent, looking very strong and comfortable despite coping with the heat in the dress. Very well done.