and cheering us on. I took the opportunity to throw my t-shirt in their general direction as I'd been carrying it from the start, over the fast runners who were on their final few miles, running in the opposite direction. We were yet to do the Isle of Dogs

Belfast last year in 3:11, but did not really do the full training. This year I followed the sub 3hr schedule and felt really confident that I could break 3hrs. I ran 2:51, so can I say a big thank you to Runner’s World for getting me there. One

' in the middle of the course, unlike some! The worst moment was not being able to run any more, at about 16 miles, knowing it would be a long walk to the finish. But I made it, with the fantastic support of the crowds along the way, who stayed on to support us

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 muscle starting

at all as my knee was a bit dodgy, so I'm amazed by what I've managed in only 11 months of real training.What I’d do differently: I would definitely do some more long runs; perhaps just one 20-miler isn't quite enough. I will also try not to go off too

or so was great!I finished in 4:51, which I was delighted with. Bronchitis five weeks before marathon day took three weeks out of my training, including my last two long runs, and then I had a sore throat on marathon day itself, so I decided to take

and finding the platform full of runners and spectators was certainly surprising. And looking up at Canary Wharf to see the sunlight reflected on the polished glass was memorable.I would/should have done more long runs in my training, as on the day anything

sun block next time. And yes, there will be a next time!)I can remember turning a corner and seeing Tower Bridge and becoming quite emotional. Someone from the hospice was there on the other side with a big cheer and a camera. The Runner’s World

be there running with the other 30,000 runners.The day was fantastic. I made lots of friends along the way, the atmosphere was amazing and I will treasure my medal forever. Thanks!Doctor Sam, 5:51This was my third and final London Marathon, but what a contrast

Runner's World. I had put a good chunk of mileage in, mostly by running the 7.5 miles from work to home two or three times a week, but I hadn't gone 'long' as recommended, and some of the races I'd planned along the way had been scuppered by bad weather