and to sip on an isotonic drink all the way round, plus take water at all the stops. I was full of optimism and nervously stood at the start line, but within the first few miles was ticking over nicely at about 8:45. Then disaster struck at around the five

whether we were fast and loose, or a bit slower with muscles tightening by the second.This was my ninth London, but my first for six years. I'd forgotten the impact the event has on your senses and had thought that I would make this my last London

due to the old ones rubbing against an ankle injury. During the week leading up to the event, get woken up at 4 in the morning by your 3-year-old daughter who has been sleeping perfectly through the night for several months. On Wednesday, get a phone

) Biggest surprise: My recovery has been extremely quick. Most memorable moment: Too many to mention, but one that stands out was giving my mum high fives at mile 7! What would I do differently: Maybe drink a little less – I've never been to the loo so much

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

breakdown. I was desperately to eat or drink something but I felt as though I was just going to bring it straight back up. Eventually I recovered enough to get a Lucozade down and a recovery sports bar but still felt appalling.I swore there and then that I

, unloved. Feeling alone in the crowd I battle on and get the reward of seeing my family again - they insist I shouldn't stop, then realise this is nothing new. Jelly babies, drinks and cuddles from my daughter and pregnant wife inspire me to get going again