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

on what fantastic support I had in hospital, from my wife and kids, family, friends and colleagues. What a race! Thanks to Flora and everybody involved in arranging such a great event. CdK, 5:47Photo: www.richk.co.ukThe day had dawned! Like many thousands

3:00 TO 4:00 (Page 4) Page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 -->MattyH, 3:16:14How to do your first marathon: Do the Flora London Marathon, on its 25th anniversary - the best race in the world. Ten days before the race, buy a new pair of running shoes

who witnessed the event, either as a runner or a spectator will know why: it is quite simply the greatest running event in the world!RFJ, 3:51The start area was great. I met up with Tea and Toast Man, AlanM and Dunnarunner as planned on the 3:30 forum

they disappeared from Manchester, and after 22 years a new PB - by exactly one minute - I couldn't have chosen a better place to do it!Unicorn, 3:18A fine marathon. I was hoping for sub-3:15, but the RW race calculator indicated I am currently capable of 3

, runners of all ages and abilities, and of course the stories just emerging of those who took 19 hours+ to complete the course on prosthetic limbs.To be in a race surrounded by these people as well as world champions and record holders is quite awe

Wilkinson himself gave me a bottle of Lucozade... That kept me going and I staggered over the line to finish 7417th in 3:48 - well pleased as I was determined to smash the 4-hour barrier!!Well done to all runners out there - the day, the race, the crowds

the next week for the 1982 Marathon, but failed to get a place in the ballot. My running tailed off after that, but it has been a dream to run the race ever since.I started running again three years ago and applied for a place in the 2003, 2004 and 2005

, in fact less than 48 hours after finishing, with aching legs I was planning my marathon diary for the coming year!!Thank you Runner’s World for all your advice in the run up to the race. I have found all information on the site invaluable and encourage

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