) -->As a Runner's World supporter virgin I wasn't sure what to expect from the support teams. They were great in making us feel welcome and useful. Here Meerkat, Lady Lucan, Meldy and Legless deserve a special mention. It was interesting to meet some

and the URWFRC for organising us at Mile 17! It was great to meet so many other Runner's World forumites, both trotting past (pausing only for a chat and a handful of jelly babies), and lending voice to the cheering.I spent a joyous race handing out baggies

and better training. The London Marathon is clearly a wonderful event, essentially a serious race for the elite runners followed up by a charity fun-run. But it wouldn’t be possible to justify closing down central London for a day just to please a few

the Highway the lead group of elite men came past on the other side having done 22 miles. They got a huge round of applause from the runners alongside me and it reminded me that I was taking part in the same event as them. Fantastic.Worst moment: my calf

it was the most amazing day she'd ever had, she couldn't believe the support everybody gave, and for me she summed up the FLM. It really is the people's marathon, not about getting PBs or elite running, but something for everyone.I learnt to respect the distance

before the start a runner for ‘Changing Faces’ came up to us and said “you’re running for Debra, that’s a great charity,” which coming from a supporter of Changing Faces was a real accolade.Debra is the UK charity for those with the genetic condition

in the whole wide world.I soaked up the atmosphere and the crowds to the end with a massive smile on my face. The shouts of "come on Higo" from complete strangers was just fantastic. Marathon running is an event where you can do exactly the same as the world

their 22-mile marker on the other side of the road.14, 15, 16 miles and we are still going strong with a never ending chorus of cheering and support from the thousands of spectators lining the route.17 miles and there are the signs for the Runner’s World

the marathon with disabilities or under stressful conditions and made me realise that this is what the London Marathon is all about – it makes a winner out of every runner.This race was a great event for me personally and one that I shall remember forever. Kiwi

surely have gone to bed on Saturday night pleading: 'Whatever you do, Dad, don't get overtaken by a rhino'."John Brown, 4:50Many thanks to the Runner's World pacer. Sticking with the 11-minute mile group made my first marathon (at 57) a lot easier