But Oscar you CAN do it...you've done it 10 times!! The route at Sunderland was hard in those last 3 miles. I think I know the up a d down section you mean. Just after the turn around point? Up the tree lined street before coming back downhill and joining the sea front road again? That was hard. I walked there. And then there was the long slow hill up to the 25 mile mark. That was tough too. It was a hard route. I think sometimes we over analyze too much. I also think the out and back nature of that last bit was hard. I never do well on out and back routes. It could be something just as simple as that.
You must not beat yourself up about it. Draw a line and move on. Oh and don't forget you are awesome!!!
Sorry to hear it didn't foot plan Oscar. But there were significant hills in the last miles that were a struggle for everyone and lots of people were walking. My experienced marathon running friend thought it was a tough course. And the fact it was your 10th marathon is a massive achievement. Hopefully with a bit of time you will recognise this.
That's ace Ten. We'll have to pick our next marathon where we can run together!! Bit quiet at times with only 1500 runners but the people of Sunderland did a smashing job of cheering everyone on! Bit hilly mind!
4:38:55 and absolutely buzzing!! Again thanks to all the helpful comments and advice on this forum. Although I've been a lurker I have really benefitted from reading!! I'm over the moon. And I saw Rosie looking really strong. And yelled her name at her. It was a bit like when you smile at a famous person and they look at you like you are mad. I feel like I know her hee hee!!
You might not get this before the race Oscar but GOOD LUCK. It sounds aaa thought you have prepared very well physically and mentally so I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you for sub 4!! Hourly I can make the 4:30 - 4:45 mark!!
Good luck to all running this weekend. As Sam would say must 'reframe' these early nerves into excitement. ARGH!!!!
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Rachel Hodge
