Before the main action gets underway, 39 club runners test the London 2012 Olympic marathon route at a 3:00 pace.

to complete the course in less than two hours, with a terrific time of 1:58:44. Sunshine rapidly changed to hard rain and freezing winds, and many spectators opted to head for the warmth of home rather than stay to watch the elite event. The problems posed

and Ironman Wisconsin in 2002. The 39-year-old finished 11th last year in Kona and was second in 2009. He will need to pace himself better on the bike this time - he went too hard last year and paid the price.Andreas Raelert (Ger)The remarkable Raelert, who

the party atmosphere to be in full throes with runners donning colourful costumes and a lively BBQ waiting at the finish to soak up the day's excesses. There's a five and a half hour cut-off point, so you can take this grape-filled caper at your own pace

and chip-timing should plush you to a PB, plus our members raved about last year's goody bags. Afterwards, explore Bushy Park's charming woodland and water gardens at a more leisurely pace. Enter now.Robin Hood 10K (Nottinghamshire, November 6)Feel like