London Marathon by Carole Baines

Sunday 22^nd April dawned bright and sunny not at all what the forecasters had promised and way too hot for me! After a make-shift breakfast (the hotel wouldn’t put any on earlier than 8 o’clock), Michaela and I met up with Wayne and Laura and we travelled to the other end of London. I was on a different start so had to leave them halfway and go on my tod. However, after lining up in my pen, I was amazed to find myself next to Libby- it was great to see a friendly face.

I had a fantastic experience- everything that everyone says is so true- brilliant organisation, wonderful crowds, supportive marshals, however don’t run it to see the sights- most of the time all I saw was road and thousands of running shoes! I have to say I’m enjoying it more in my head now than I did at the time.

Up to 17 miles didn’t feel so bad but after that it was a case of head down and just get to the finish and boy that ‘385 yards to go’ banner is a welcome sign. Well 3 hrs 33mins 32secs after I crossed the start line I finally finished and it’s the only time that I’ll say I wish I’d ran a second slower!

A massive well done to my fellow A&T runners-Michaela, Robin, Pete, Wayne and Laura-we all know it wasn’t easy

I’d just like to say thanks to everyone who sent good luck and well done messages via face book, I really appreciate it. Also sincere thanks to everyone who helped me through my training- it makes it so much more bearable having people to run with especially on those 20milers which would be very lonely on your own.

Good luck to all the Manchester marathoners for Sunday- enjoy it, I hope you all get great times and I’ll see you there- but this time as a spectator!