moredetermined. I started running in 1999 and did my first triathlon in the sameyear. In 2000 I did the FLM and then the Longest Day iron distance race.I even shocked my then coach who expected me to be at least 2 hourslater! I then snapped my knee ligaments

patches. Meeting up before, during and after the race all added to the party atmosphere.I was badly affected by cramp from miles 20 to 23, probably not helped by my injury-restricted training over the last 8 weeks. At one point I stopped to stretch against

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

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

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 of jelly babies

3:00 TO 4:00 (Page 9) Page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 --Jon Hull, 4:00What an amazing eventThe best part: every single mile, where spectators are cheering and routing for you. A truly democratic sport - what a feeling.The worst moment: about 22

endlessly, but it's the nearby rhino they love - we try to shake him off, only to find the occupant is superhuman, cracking out the miles at will. All is well at 16 miles, the rhino has been overcome, and my heart races as I spot the family - only for them

walking), then maybe to finish around 4 hours 30. The last six miles took 1 hour 10 minutes! Sadly, I had slowed down substantially!!! Next time, I'm not sure if I would choose such a busy race. I would like to do around 4 hours next time.Ashy, 4

marathon was just a bit off balance this time.How will you be celebrating? Went to the pub an hour after the race. Had three sips of Guinness, nearly fainted and promptly threw up the 'health bar' I got in the goodie bag and the tuna sandwich I'd prepared

hoped-for 4:45, but hell, I was just about to finish FLM for goodness sake! What would I do differently? Not panic so much beforehand and hopefully not get injured 3 weeks before the race!Wabo and Sue, 6:00 Wabo's poem 2005This poem is for my mate