that Runner's World said that it's better to lose a few minutes than to feel uncomfortable, go and get it out of your mind - that is good advice I didn't follow.Philip Bosworth, 4:21 My first marathon, and I loved every minute. In training I ran as far as 20

training, but I was also able to pick up lots of advice from some of the more experienced runners within the club. I also consulted a podiatrist who videod my running style and advised me on what shoes would suit my action. That advice also proved to be a

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

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

instead of sitting behind the fence sipping tea)But after I debriefed I found I was fascinated with the whole world of marathons, like how many people do it. How there were 35,000 runners with a single shared desire, how much of a spectacle the whole thing

event and it still chokes me.I was expecting my best moment to be running down the Mall, but to be honest when I got there I really couldn't care less!The best bits by far for me were the starting line (knowing that I was part of the best marathon

-strengthening exercises. The key to finishing was good advice: I had a good pair of trainers that catered for my clumsy running style, and I took energy gels every hour with a bit of energy bar. I also wore a belt carrying a bottle of Lucozade Sport that I would refill

on the pack, and I carried it in my pack the whole way round!And finally a word of advice to first-time marathon runners...when you pass through the water stations, DON'T run on the road markings. They become very slippery, as I found out at mile 3, when I

soundly that night.jci, 4:42 I have an hour to wait in the runners’ start area. The conventional advice to those in a pre-event situation is to banish all negative thoughts. Well, I was very lucky to get a place in the ballot; the sun is shining from a

, 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. That was the best part