Post London Marathon week - also known as the week I battled both post marathon blues and also the ridiculous state I seem to have got my quads into. Post marathon blues is nothing new; give it a Google and there are lots of articles about the challenges of a comedown following a big event which has been the focus of your time and energy for the past months. I always suffer from it, so expected to feel a bit lost this week. I did not expect however my legs to be so slow to recover from running 26.2 miles. I am usually back into exercise sometimes the day after a marathon, and the past two marathons I have completed have seen me undertake races the week after. This week has been very different though...

MONDAY: the day after London and I was in a lot of pain. My walking was a stiff shuffle and my quads were incredibly painful. The rest of my body seemed relatively fine, but the acute soreness in my quads meant I grimaced with virtually any movement. Needless to say no exercise was even considered. 

TUESDAY: my quads were still very painful today, less excruciating but my mobility was still badly affected. I went to the gym for a steady cycle on the bike to try and encourage some recovery. I also braved the foam roller, which was simply hideous!

WEDNESDAY: a slight improvement in my quads today. They were still sore and stiff, but almost at the normal post marathon levels I am used to experiencing, only three days delayed. I cycled again at the gym before attempting a Body Pump class. What with being away watching my friend in the Boston Marathon and then prepping for my own London Marathon I had not been to the class in over two weeks. Due to this it seemed extra hard work, but I dragged my tired body through.

​The London Marathon 2017 – marathon number four and my fourth attempt at going under four hours – surely it was meant to be?! Having completed London as my first marathon in 2015, I knew it would be a special experience, but I guess I had some doubts in my head as to whether it could be just as good second time round. Would that magic still be there? Would I feel so passionately about it? I also was questioning whether I could run a sub 4 hour time. Deep down I was quite confident. My training had gone very well, I had worked hard, I had exceeded my own expectations, I had remained injury and niggle free, and standing on that start line I knew I was probably in the best shape of my life; healthy and strong. A marathon is never guaranteed though, and alongside the pocket of confidence I had were also the doubts. I had said from day one though, that whilst I wanted to try and go sub 4 hours in London, I would not sacrifice my enjoyment of the day for a time. If I could manage both then it would be a dream; if I managed neither then it would be a nightmare…

Walking into the Red Start at Greenwich Park amidst hundreds of fellow runners on Sunday 23rd April I had tears in my eyes. I felt so emotional and could not really pinpoint it to anything other than the fact I was so happy to be with all these people. I looked at them all and thought of the weeks of training they had gone through, I could imagine the struggles and challenges they had faced, the personal victories they had notched, and also the charities and good causes which were benefitting so greatly from their efforts. The magic of London was starting to hit me already. Compared to 2015 I was much more confident in the pre-marathon ‘logistics’, I knew what I needed to do pre-race; get in the toilet queue, dump my bag on the baggage truck and then get into my pen. Time went quickly and it seemed before I had even had a chance to allow myself to get nervous they were giving us a five minute countdown to the gun.

Crossing the start line I actually did not feel too emotional, just determined to run well. The first three miles then sped by in a blur, although I was pleasantly reminded straight away of the immense level of support to expect. A huge number of people were already enthusiastically lining the streets even in these early stages, and many looked to not be supporting anyone in particular, just us as marathon runners. I also sped through the first three miles a little bit too quick. I wanted to start easy and try avoid too much struggle at the end, but even though I felt like I was running very comfortably I was still ahead of my target pace (8.40 min/mile), instead running more like 8.20 min/mile. I kept thinking of my friend who would be tracking me, and had to give a wry smile as I passed through the first set of timing mats, knowing she would be cursing me!

I settled down a bit after the initial miles and slotted in with a group of runners who all seemed about the same pace as me. I let the miles tick along, running very specifically it seemed between 8.38-8.43 min/mile pace. It was not long before I hit a tough patch though. Between eight and ten miles I was overcome with lots of doubts. Why was it feeling tougher already? Why am I even doing this? Can I actually do this? It seemed much too early for things not to feel comfortable anymore, and I was starting to convince myself a downward spiral was beginning. I tried to focus on the crowd and everything around me rather than on my body, but I was worried. Something lifted me though and that was spotting Jacquie Millet, an incredible runner who I follow online and has now completed over 100 marathons. I ran beside her briefly, I didn’t say anything as she would have no idea who I am, but it really boosted me.

Passing ten miles I felt more relaxed, despite having had a worrying spell, my pace had not dropped and I was doing well. I started to look forward to Tower Bridge arriving. Ask anyone who has completed the London Marathon and they will tell you Tower Bridge is so memorable to run across, the atmosphere is just electric, and I couldn’t wait to soak it all in again. As in 2015, I turned a corner and suddenly the bridge was in front of me. I cried when I saw it (there is a theme developing). Running across the bridge was just incredible. I hugged the left hand side as that’s where my friend was standing, and the amount of people who screamed my name was almost overwhelming. My smile was massive. I spotted my friend; I can’t even remember exactly how I reacted but I know I went crazy for a bit, and then ran on with an even bigger smile on my face. This joy filled me for the next couple of miles, which included passing half way.

I braced myself for the next part of the course as I remember it being a tough section when I ran in 2015, fearing the slightly thinner crowds and fewer distractions. I was wrong though, the crowds were immense, even better than I can remember. People bellowed my name; I honestly thought some of them must have known me through the sheer enthusiasm in their voice. London crowds are simply amazing. Hitting mile sixteen my quads were starting to get really sore though, the course was a lot more undulating than I remembered; not hilly, but just constant little up and downs which I really began to notice. I felt I was running better on the flat, inclines hurt and downhills were no real relief either. With ten miles to go I just prayed the pain would not get any worse. The crowds definitely helped me cope and the pain remained a relatively constant level too which mentally I could accept and I just learnt to deal with. I also started a mantra in my head. My pre-race goal was to get to 20 miles in 3 hours, and then be in a position to attempt the final 6 miles/10k in under an hour. So over and over again I just kept saying to myself – 20 miles, 3 hours, 20 miles, 3 hours…. It sounds a bit mad but it distracted me from my quads and kept me focussed.

I hit 20 miles in roughly 2hr 55mins – I was very happy. I could now feel my legs were getting tired and it was therefore a relief to be ahead of my time goal. It now meant I had some extra time to effectively play with and still be on track for that sub 4 finish. I didn’t let myself become complacent though. I started a new race in my head focusing on the next six miles, aiming to get to the final mile and still feel reasonably good for a strong finish. I focussed on each mile marker appearing, let the crowd buoy me along and simply dug deep, remembering all my training.

Entering the embankment I was now dipping into just over 9 min/mile pace, but I knew I was still on track and I just had to keep going. This stretch seemed never ending, but the further I crept along the more confident I felt. I spotted the BBC’s Colin Jackson stood at the side of the road, microphone poised obviously on the lookout for a celebrity, and I high fived him enthusiastically. Then I heard the familiar sound of my parents calling my name. I turned and waved at them with more gusto, so happy they had spotted me and had seen me running strong. The last time my parents came to watch me run I was walking the final mile of the Manchester Marathon in 2016, it hence meant a lot for them to see me running happily.

Turning by Big Ben, it suddenly seemed real. I was going to do this! My legs instantly felt a hundred times stronger beneath me, and an extra level of determination filled my stride as I entered Birdcage Walk. My friend was here supporting again and we spotted each other. Any form of grimace that may have been on my face was soon filled with a massive beaming smile; I clenched my fists and attempted to shout ‘I’m going to do it!’, and I could tell by the expression on her face looking back at me she knew I was too. As I made the final turn onto The Mall I cried (again). The sight of that finish is just so iconic. I always used to dream of running down there and now here I was doing it again. It was just such as special moment. I lost it a bit at this point - in a good way! I went absolutely mental at the photographers who were crouched along this finishing stretch, pumping my fists and celebrating in a style very out of my usual character – I wish I could bottle that feeling and share it with others. Overjoyed, I crossed the line in 3:51:03.

I cried (yes again) when I was handed my medal. ‘Are you ok?’ the volunteer asked. ‘Yes, happy tears!’ I replied. My quads were in bits but I did not care as I stumbled through the goody bag, t-shirt and baggage collection stations, looking forward to greeting my supporters. I found them, hugged them, and just felt a total mix of all emotions. A marathon requires such physical, mental and, as I found in this race more than even, emotional effort that upon finishing it’s like you do not quite know how to feel. Relief that I had cracked the sub 4 hours? Simple pride in myself? Gratitude to have such wonderful friends and family? Pure happiness? Probably it all at once.
 
The London Marathon in 2015 was very special. I achieved my lifetime goal of running London and I demonstrated to myself what I was capable of both physically and mentally. The London Marathon in 2017 was just as special. I achieved my sub four hour goal and confirmed to myself what an amazing and positive impact running has had on my life. I am also proud this year to have been able to support a charity –Project Africa Athletics –who share the same mission in changing lives through running.  
 
On Saturday before the marathon I met Paula Radcliffe at the London Marathon Expo and had my photo taken with her and asked her to sign my race bib. I also listened to her talk about the London Marathon. One of the questions the interviewer asked her was how she treated herself after the marathon. Haagen Dazs ice cream, she replied, she had dreamed of it whilst running. When I arrived home from London after the marathon I lay on my bed with two giant bags of Maltesers – anyone who knows me knows how much I love these - and a bottle of Old Mout Fruit Cider by my side. This bottle was given to me by my friend before the Manchester Marathon in 2016, when I had hoped to go sub 4 hours. After an eventful race in which it basically did not happen, I could not bring myself to drink it. The bottle has sat in my cupboard for over a year, waiting to be appropriately opened. The London Marathon on Sunday 23rd April was that day. Cider and Maltesers – that’s how all the elites recover right?  ​

Week sixteen - otherwise known as race week. This week has felt odd in many ways. I arrived back from America on Tuesday after supporting my friend run the Boston Marathon, and then had to suddenly switch my mind to thinking about my own race on Sunday. Physically I have felt fine, and have not really suffered too much from the effects of jet lag etc. Mentally I have found it difficult just to put my time in Boston to one side so quickly and, I guess you could say, move on. Then throw into this mix that it is a huge taper week and I suddenly find myself with barely any miles to do and a whole lot of (over)thinking time... give me a 50+ mile week any day!

MONDAY: Rest Day

TUESDAY: after a long day of travelling, having left America late Monday night and arrived back at my familiar front door today at 4.30pm, I felt weary. I took myself out for steady 4 mile run though which helped to normalise me a little, especially treading on some familiar paths.

WEDNESDAY: another 4 miles, this time with some short intervals mixed in; 10 x 200m with 200m recoveries. This felt fine and served a purpose to freshen both my mind and my legs up a little.

THURSDAY: my last run pre-marathon - a steady paced 3 miles, which seemed like it as over before I had even started! 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

That's it. Tomorrow I head down to London and will brave the Expo to collect my all important race number. Then Sunday I run 26.2 miles through the streets of the capital. ​

I am writing this weekly training round up on a Tuesday evening - which seems both very early and odd! But this week will be odd - in a good way - as I am flying to America tomorrow and will therefore not be sat on my laptop on a Sunday evening as normal reviewing a week of running. I am also a bit OCD and like consistency, so could not just let Week Fifteen disappear! I am bound for Boston to watch my friend and running buddy take part in the prestigious Boston Marathon. I am personally excited as I have never been to America before, but I am also very excited for my friend as I know just how special this race is for her and in the world of running and in particular marathons.

So far this week I have completed my usual Body Pump class and a 7 mile interval run. Both were fine, the intervals were pretty harmless; 10 x 400m reps at 5k pace and felt more like there were waking up my legs rather than pushing them too hard; which is a good feeling for a taper week. Tomorrow I plan to get in four early morning, easy miles before leaving for the airport, and then I will be continuing my training in America. Thankfully with it being a taper week training volume is not too high and therefore it is easier to plan in running and it is much less disruptive. I have a 5 mile tempo run on Thursday and a 10 mile run on Sunday. Saturday’s planned 3 miler will be the Boston Athletic Association 5k race, which whist I will not be racing so close to London, I cannot wait to participate in the event and experience the atmosphere. 

Some people have questioned why I am going to America so close to the London Marathon and I have had a few comments from people about jet lag/tiredness/being out of routine etc. My response has always been the same; it means just as much for me to be there to see my friend conquer Boston as it does me running London. I could fit in both events – so why not! I have been running with my friend for a few years now and, as many people will appreciate, running develops a unique kind of friendship that nothing else can really replicate. With our Spring marathons being so close together it has meant that across these last few weeks our training has also been nearly identical, and we have shared virtually every long Sunday run together, building our bodies up to be able to take on 26.2 miles. It feels like we have been on this journey together even more so this time, and to not see the final outcome, the marathon itself, would be a little heart-breaking. So Boston beckons…and then focus will shift to Sunday 23rd April – London. ​

The first week of the marathon taper. Nothing dramatic, but a definite reduction. Was it easier? Not really. This week I have really felt the effects of the Lincoln 10k which I raced on Sunday. I say raced, as I did race it; I gave it my absolute all both mentally and physically and it left me struggling at times this week. It almost felt like the 10k was what I had been working up to, and I now wanted a break from pushing my body and mind and not be so structured with my running. I have found the desire though, with London creeping so very close just the thought of being stood on that start has been enough get me to lace up my trainers and get out the door.

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: a struggle of an interval run. I had 9 miles on my plan with 10 x 800m efforts at 10k pace and 200m recoveries. I did not try to run at my 10k pace from Sunday's race, that would have been ridiculous, but I wanted to aim for around 7.20-7.30 min/mile pace on the interval sections. The first few bouts felt ok, but as the miles added up my legs faded and I increasingly struggled to find the desire to push myself to run fast and get through the pain.

WEDNESDAY: a steady run before Body Pump. The running element was relatively straightforward; 8 miles at an average pace of 8.16 min/mile. Body Pump afterwards was horribly hard though. I should have guessed I was low on energy as I struggled to find the effort to foam roll before the class, and as the class drew on I then felt like every ounce of my energy was slowly draining away. I was almost in a zombie like state by the end!

THURSDAY: I had to force myself out the door this evening, with my only motivation being it was a lot less miles than I have been used to running. Despite nearly not going it was in fact a good run; 6 miles with the middle 4 miles between 7:45 and 8 min/mile pace. I also had a Sports Massage today which helped rejuvenate me sightly. 

​FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: I had contemplated taking things easy on today's Lincoln parkrun visit, but as soon as I arrived I knew I could not resist giving it my all. My legs did not feel perfect as I lapped the beautiful Boultham Park on an equally lovely spring morning, and I was therefore really pleased to finish in 21:40.

SUNDAY: on another glorious day, which felt more summery than spring like, I enjoyed a 15 mile run with my friend. 15 miles actually seemed short (which is what marathon training does to you!) and we ticked the miles off probably a bit too quickly, ending with an average pace of 8.25 min/mile. I just loved being out though and after a few challenging runs mid-week it was a joy to run with just pure pleasure. This was my last long marathon training run on UK soil (see image) as I head out to America on Wednesday to watch my friend and running buddy take on the Boston Marathon. Next week's training will therefore look very different, both in mileage and locations, and will also offer me a bit of a positive distraction from my own very fast approaching marathon. ​

This week has been out of my normal training/running routine, with changes made due to me running the Lincoln 10k on Sunday. It has therefore also seen me take two total rest days, which I think is the first time this year this has happened! Normally I would feel lost and sometimes a bit guilty about taking more than one day off, but I could definitely feel my body needed it this week, and I actually enjoyed knowing I was doing it good. 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: an early morning interval session with 5 x 1 mile reps over an 8 mile distance. Mile reps are hard; they feel long, almost like they go on forever at times. I was therefore very happy my recovery periods were 400m, which seemed massive after weeks of running 200m recovery distances. I ran my mile reps consistently at 10k pace, and was pleased with how I felt despite a rare morning run. 

WEDNESDAY: this run almost seemed an exact repeat of last Wednesday's run - I had ten easy miles on my plan, but struggled to make them feel easy. I tried to slow it down, but that felt hard, and then when  I naturally sped up a bit I was constantly panicking in my head about going too quick! The result was another run at 8.30 min/mile average pace, which  is neither 'easy' or 'hard' for me. My usual Body Pump class was cancelled afterwards, so I stayed at the gym for Circuits without even thinking it was probably not a good idea to do something new with a long run scheduled for tomorrow - burpees, suicide runs and wall sits were not really needed! 

This week has been tough, very tough at times, but also really rewarding. I knew I was in for a test, with 52 miles planned plus my usual insistence on keeping with my additional gym routine. I have made it though.

MONDAY: Body Pump class - after running a tough 20 miles on Sunday this class was a bit of a struggle. I could really feel my physical fatigue and mentally I was also weary, which I noticed in my ability to withstand the usual Body Pump pain. 

TUESDAY: a hideous interval run. I was really apprehensive about setting out for this as on my plan it looked awful and I simply knew it was going to hurt. 8 miles with 15 x 400m intervals at 5k pace, and 200m recoveries; not only did I have to push myself through fifteen fast intervals, but the eight mile distance also seemed lengthy in itself. It was not pleasant, but I kept on track and managed to pace all my intervals well at roughly my 5k pace.

WEDNESDAY: 10 easy paced miles. I struggled to keep my pace down, as the slower I went the more unnatural my stride seemed and it felt like almost more effort. My average pace was 8.33 min/mile, which suggests it was quite a good run, however it just did not feel it. Body Pump class afterwards. 

THURSDAY: with a good level of miles already in my legs another 9 miles on the plan was not exactly what I felt my body needed. I laced up my trainers and chose a new route from my usual weekday paths, which I found helped make the distance much more manageable. My miles were scheduled to be alternating between 9 min/mile and 8 min/mile, however I was consistently quicker across all splits, more like 7.40 and 8.40 paces. Despite feeling tired before, I felt much better out running; not perfect, but better.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

My favourite quote of the week; marathon training is hard - if it wasn't everyone would be doing it! These are the testing weeks of marathon training, and as I follow other people's journey's to the start line of numerous Spring marathons, I know we are all pushing and challenging ourselves. But as the weeks get harder, the ultimate marathon goal gets closer - and of course so does the taper! 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: today my plan said fartlek (speed play), which although I acknowledge is a valid training method, I personally struggle to just go out and mix up my paces. Instead I opted for intervals; yes I actually chose to run intervals! With 7 miles scheduled I decided to include 7 x 800m repeats with 200m recovery periods. I ran the intervals very consistently aiming for 10k pace, and I actually really enjoyed it - maybe because I had chosen the nature of the run as opposed to feeling dictated by a plan!

WEDNESDAY: 7 easy paced miles before my Body Pump class. I definitely did not start at an 'easy' pace for the first three miles, instead I was running nearer to 8 min/mile pace. I forced myself to rein it in a little though, and whilst it actually hurt my legs more to forcibly slow down, I knew it was what I needed to do.

THURSDAY: another 7 miles, this time in the form of a progression run. Before I set off I told myself I had to be disciplined. Starting too fast would leave me with no where to go and I would literally be sprinting in the last few miles. I planned my paces in biro on my hand, hoping the visual reference would help me keep on track. On paper (well skin!) the first mile would be at 9 min/m pace... in reality I ran 8:43 min/mile. Not ideal, but with some determination and the help of chasing a super speedy runaway dog on the final mile and returning it to its grateful owner, I managed it with splits of 8:43, 8:30, 8:05, 7:57, 7:50, 7: 42, and 7:15. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: a tough Lincoln parkrun today, but one I was pleased with (see image). I started quickly, but soon realised my legs were not quite at their best and my pace subsequently dropped. I had to really dig deep and at one point I actually contemplated just taking my foot off the gas totally and letting this become an easier run. But my mind won the battle and I refused to give in. Although my legs were totally spent at the finish, I managed to get under the 22 minute benchmark, with a 21:55 time. At this stage in marathon training I cannot expect parkrun to always be a PB challenging run, and I was actually more happy with the mental resolve I displayed. 

SUNDAY: I had to draw on some of my mental strength again for today's 20 miler. My legs were definitely not in 8:30 min/mile condition like last week's longer run, but my friend and I opted to take this week a bit steadier anyway, which was a relief! Despite a gusty wind we ran reasonably consistent for the majority and it was pleasant to just be ticking off the miles and chatting away. However the last few miles my legs really began to protest. With four miles to go they were weary, and the final two miles were simply very tough; my legs were uncomfortable and had just a dull constant ache about them. I made it though, and suitably collapsed when I got home! Next week is big mileage week (and I mean big!) - wish me luck! ​

This week has been a bit of a 'cut back' week; there have still been a lot of miles, but some of the runs have been slightly less demanding. Mentally this has been a nice break, and I have actually not stuck rigidly to my plan on some runs - shock!

MONDAY: Body Pump class, and after yesterday's 20 miler I was pleased to just have sore toes to report - that I can handle!

TUESDAY: due to evening plans, for the first time in a very long while I got up early to run before work. I struggle with very early morning runs as I find I am hungry and energyless. With this in mind I made sure I had eaten a large meal Monday night and also gave myself 30 mins to get out the door, enough time to digest a banana for some fuel. My run was all the eights; 8 miles with 8 x 800m intervals and 200m recoveries. Initially I thought the run was never going to happen; pulling my half asleep body up the hill by my house I debated whether to scrap it completely. But I stuck with it, I woke up, and I ran the the reps well at 10k pace. 

WEDNESDAY: a frustrating day at work meant I couldn't wait to run tonight, I had energy that needed channeling and a mind that welcomed distraction. My plan was for 8 miles at a steady pace, but feeling as I did and on a wonderful spring like evening I could not hold myself back. My legs felt strong and I powered around the streets at an average pace of 7.50 min/mile, setting a new 10k PB (unofficial as I only count races!) in the process. Body Pump class after. 

THURSDAY: another run where I ignored my plan. After playing badminton with colleagues I was keen to get my run in quickly before I felt too tired or it got too late, and a shorter 5 mile distance was thus welcomed. However I failed to rein in my desire just to run and instead of keeping certain miles to marathon pace, ended with a 8.21 min/mile average and being generally a bit all over the place. I felt frustrated I was not disciplined afterwards, but think I just wanted to get the run done this time. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

I am now passed the half way point in training weeks - and I can feel it. This week it has seemed like I am demanding more from my body, even though it is feeling increasingly more tired; which in fact is exactly what I am doing! This is the challenging period of marathon training, the time when you must draw on strength, determination, the support of others, and most importantly keep telling yourself - I can do this!

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: after Sunday's off road, hilly, mud bath half marathon (more here) it felt a joy to be back running on smooth tarmac tonight, even with my legs still a little sore from the weekend's efforts. Intervals this week were 7 miles with 6 x 1000m reps at 10k pace and 200m recoveries. I struggle to find my 10k pace but was happy to run between 7:14 and 7:45 min/mile for all intervals, which seemed about right. 

WEDNESDAY: an easy paced 10 miles, which actually felt quite tough. My legs were sluggish today and it all just felt a bit ploddy and unnatural. Pace wise I managed 8:45 min/mile on average, which is alright for an easy run, but just didn't seem that way at the time! I feared attending Body Pump afterwards may be a silly idea and could lead to total exhaustion, but I got through the class in one piece. 

THURSDAY: it seemed yesterday's hope that I had successfully made it through a midweek 10 miler and Body Pump were a bit too optimistic. I was whacked today and delayed my run for ages. When I did get out the door my legs did as they were told; running 7 miles aiming for alternate miles at 9 min/mile pace and 8 min/mile pace. I was pleased my legs complied and I actually ran every mile quicker than on plan, but not massively. On stopping I was spent though, a mile from home due to rubbish route planning I could not even face a slow shuffle back, so instead I 'enjoyed' a weary walk.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: today's Lincoln parkrun visit was personally disappointing. After running predominantly 21 minute times this year, and nothing over 22 minutes for the last six months, finishing in 23:21 felt a bit of a fail. It seemed I was really forcing my legs to try go quick, and it felt like I was giving all out effort for not much reward. When I run well at parkrun I know it; although it is tough, my body feels in sync and my legs powerful beneath me. Today was far from that. I was disappointed, but maybe I should have anticipated it. My legs were totally knackered after Thursday's run, and yes I had a rest on Friday, but one day does not undo all the stress I have been putting my body through during the past eight weeks of training. I was still snapped smiling though (see image) so cannot have been all bad - parkrun never is!

SUNDAY: the first of a series of really long 'long runs' - 20 miles. I was a little nervous ahead of today's run; the prospect of pushing my tired body through 20 miles could have proven to be testing to say the least. It definitely helps having a friend and running buddy in the same marathon training boat, not just for the added joy of conversation and company on these lengthy running adventures, but for understanding just how your body actually feels. We aimed to take it steady today and just get the mileage in, which I think we managed, averaging 8:46 min/miles. The first ten miles I found relatively comfortable, from ten miles on things started to get a bit weary but nothing unbearable, and the last few miles were a mix of determination and realisation I had nearly made it.  A tough week but the thought of London keeps me going. ​

A massive thank you to everyone who took part in my online prize draw in aid of Project Africa Athletics, the charity I am supporting through running the London Marathon in April. 

I made the draw using the old fashioned method of drawing names out of a 'hat' (read Tupperware tub!)

The winners were as follows:
Aftershokz Wireless Trekz Titanium Headphones: Ruth Webb
Signed Alistair and Jonathon Brownlee ‘Swim Bike Run’ Book: Sophie Carter
Signed Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill Photograph: Holly
Skins Clothing: Colette

Project Africa Athletics aims to support athletes in rural areas of East Africa. The charity seeks to give exposure to athletes living in poverty who possess the required talent to compete internationally and allow them to earn a decent living through running. Project Africa Athletics then assists these athletes with developing sustainable projects back in their rural villages to improve quality of life. 

Week eight signifies the half way point of my marathon training - where have the last eight weeks gone?! I am happy with my progress so far; I am coping well with a more demanding training plan and, most of all, I am still enjoying running despite the tests marathon training gives you. This week I have also taken part in my first race of 2017 - the Harewood House Half Marathon. 

MONDAY: a change to my usual weekly routine, with a replacement weights based class being scheduled instead of my regular Body Pump. The class was fast paced and very repetition heavy which made me fear for my body slightly... 

TUESDAY: my fears were realised today; my legs were in absolute bits. I do not have the greatest flexibility anyway, and it seemed the endless deadlifts which were a strong feature of yesterday's class had really got to my hamstrings. My legs felt tight and like I was walking with bent knees - needless to say I knew running was not going to be easy. I pushed my uncomfortable legs through 7 miles including 4 x 1 mile intervals at 10k pace (roughly 7.30-7.45 min/mile). My conclusion... it is not good to kill your legs off on a Monday during a week of marathon training!

WEDNESDAY: another 7 miles on legs which were still feeling a bit tender. I actually ran faster than my plan's suggested pace, but once my legs got into a rhythm I did not want to disrupt them and was just pleased they were functioning. Body Pump afterwards was more of a struggle and my legs moaned at the use of weights again.

THURSDAY: the day Storm Doris decided to grace us with its blustery presence. I debated most of the day whether running in the strong winds was a good idea, or whether I should seek sanctuary in the treadmill. However, I was aiming for 11 miles and this longer distance made me yearn to be outside. I hate the treadmill, so the prospect of a long run on the monotonous machine actually appealed less to me than running into a gale! I braced the conditions (see beautiful post run windswept photo), battling powerful gusts and driving rain, and managed ten miles at a steady 8.45 min/mile pace; I had nothing left to attempt the eleventh mile but was satisfied with my efforts regardless. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: with an impending trail half marathon on Sunday I thought I best give my newly purchased trail shoes a test before attempting to run 13.1 miles in them... better late than never! I had chosen to volunteer at my local Lincoln parkrun, so laced up and ran to and from the park, which was about a 5 mile journey in total. I really enjoy volunteering at parkrun and running there allows me to both support our event and still get my own running training in when I need to. Its an option worth thinking about if you are unsure about committing to volunteering at your local parkrun event. 

SUNDAY: the Harewood House Half Marathon. Billed as 13.1 miles across muddy off road tracks and steep forest inclines, it is probably not your most conventional weekly 'long run' as part of marathon training. But my training plan had a half marathon race scheduled for around this point, and I love a challenge and trying something new - so why not! Full blog to follow. 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: despite it being Valentine’s Day there was not much love shared between me and my training plan when I looked and saw I had exactly the same run as last week to complete; 16 x 200m intervals, with 200m recoveries – otherwise known as the run with the never ending intervals.  I ran a two mile warm up in order to get to a nice long stretch of interrupted path before beginning my attack. I say attack, as I really got into the intervals this time around, running many at below my usual 5k pace, and – thankfully – they ticked by much quicker than last week. A cool down mile left me with 8 miles in total, ready for my hot valentines date with the gym for an abs class…!

WEDNESDAY: an easy paced 10 mile run before Body Pump. Being off work today meant I could run in daylight and was able to choose an out and back route along the local river bank. This route choice was much nicer than running loops around the city centre after work, and it didn’t make it feel quite so long for a weekday run. I was absolutely starving at Body Pump after… the hunger made the class much harder than normal!

THURSDAY: another replica run from last week, and another I was not too pleased about seeing again! Seven miles were on the plan, with the middle five miles at half marathon pace. The run was just as hard as last week, and it is difficult to articulate just how many conversations were going on in my head throughout. These ranged from thinking I needed to give up, to surges of determination to keep going! I managed it… with middle splits of 8:05, 7:52, 7:54, 7:55 and 7:34 – it was horribly hard though!

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: my weekly visit to Lincoln parkrun. I felt strong running today and a busy start also benefitted me (a record breaking 460 runners were taking part in the event! ) as it meant I didn’t go off with my usual overly optimistic gusto. This measured start helped me control my splits more and there was no mid-way dip or final lap flagging, and I crossed the line in a satisfying 21:45.

Do you use Instagram? If so, then I need your help (please!)

Lucozade Sport are giving London Marathon runners the chance to win a £1000 donation to their charity - which I would love to win to support my charity, Project Africa Athletics. Project Africa Athletics uses running to change people's lives, and funds raised will allow those less fortunate to reap the rewards of running, whilst also assisting communities living in poverty in Africa.

How can you help? I need ten people to run one mile and post a selfie to Instagram including the hashtag #MadeToMove and tag me in using my Instagram handle @_aliceocarter_

Its that simple - and we secretly all love a sweaty post run selfie anyway! Here's my selfie from today's training run - thank you in advance if you choose to share yours! 

I have had a few days annual leave this week and have been using some of my free time to think ahead to things I need to sort ready for April - marathon month. Yes, I am being very organised, but as I will be in America supporting my friend run the Boston Marathon only a few days before my own London Marathon, I do not want to leave anything last minute. No one needs to be stressing a few days before race day! 

This will be my fourth marathon and I now feel reasonably confident with what I need to pack for the day. I can however remember being so nervous prior to my first marathon about what I needed to take and scared I might forget something crucial. Here are a few tips I have picked up along the way;

1) Packing List
Make a list of what you need for the marathon - do not take anything for granted! I sit and think through the day, getting ready to run, running itself, post run celebrations etc. and note everything that is involved. This includes the obvious - running trainers - to something you may not immediately think of, like making sure you have something different to put on your feet after finishing the marathon (a pair of flip flops are often recommended!) just in case your feet are not in the best of states!

2) Old Jumper/Bin Bags
Dig around and find on old hoody or jumper you no longer care about which you can wear on race morning. After you have said goodbye to your bag at the baggage drop you do not want to be left standing in a tiny vest and shorts for ages, waiting to start and getting cold. I have exhausted my old jumper stock now, so tend to pick a jumper up from a cheap shop like Primark. I keep this jumper on until literally a minute or so before the start, then toss it to the side. Some people also wear their jumper for a few miles into the race until they have warmed up fully. Charities collect the discarded clothing so do not fear about it being wasted! I also pack bin bags in case its raining on race day, as these can offer additional, cheap waterproof shelter whilst waiting to start. 

3) Loo Roll
This is something I have gradually realised is a 'must pack' item. After queuing for ages to use a portaloo its often the case that there is no toilet roll left after hundreds of other runners have done their business before you. Having some toilet roll or spare tissues to hand can help make the trip just a little more pleasant!

4) Portable Chargers
I do not listen to music or use any form of app whilst running, but I know that my mobile phone's battery will be flagging after the marathon. After an early start, responding to good luck messages, posting start line selfies to social media, and then trying to get in contact with people at the finish line,there will definitely not be much life left in my iPhone. If you are planning on using your phone during the marathon then I doubt you will have much battery left at all! Portable phone chargers are fab; small devices which can hold a lot of charge and are not too expensive buy. They can bring a phone back to life and ensure you can share your marathon achievement with loved ones.

5) Expo Trainers/Shoes
On the day before a marathon the last thing you need is to make your feet sore or blistered through poor footwear choice. It may not look the height of fashion matching a pair of brightly coloured trainers with normal clothing, but I always wear a pair of older running shoes as I walk around. It keeps my feet comfy and also seems to act as a bit of marathon runner identity (you will probably be able to spot people at the expo who are running through their footwear choices!) You will also unintentionally cover a lot of ground looking around the Expo or even if you are just traveling around London, so be mindful of planning too much in the day before you run!

6) Post Run Treat
A fellow runner once advised me to pack something you will enjoy for after the race, a little treat. It might also be something to think of in those final miles! Although I was not in the best of moods after finishing the Manchester Marathon I do remember being able to raise a smile as both my friend and family had bought me maltesers - my absolute weakness! The included photo is of me after the London Marathon in 2015, in a happier mood, and sipping on a celebratory drink my friends had surprised me with. So maybe drop some packing hints to your supporters too! 

This week my training has been fueled by my own dogged determination, with the added assistance of Max Strength Cold and Flu tablets... you will not see that written in any official marathon training guides!

MONDAY: after struggling with a cold at the weekend I woke today feeling no better; totally bunged up and battling to breathe. Armed with said cold and flu tablets, pocket tissues and sipping endless amounts of water I made it through the day. Since I was feeling slightly improved on the morning, and me being me, I decided to go to my Body Pump class.

TUESDAY: my germs were marginally better today, so there was definitely no avoiding the 6 mile run I had planned featuring 16 x 200m intervals, with 200m recovery periods. For me this run was more of a mental than physical challenge. I completed the short reps at 5k pace and found I could adequately recover between bouts, the battle however was keeping my mind motivated to push myself 16 times over!

WEDNESDAY: a longer mid-week 10 mile run finishing at the gym for Body Pump. At first I struggled a bit with my cold when running; my chest was tight in the chilly air and a new niggly cough seemed to be developing. Thankfully this was due to be an easy paced run (average 8.44 min/mile), and I could thus steadily tick away the miles. I have no doubt if had rested prior to this day my cold may have disappeared by this point, but...!

THURSDAY: as I was due a later start at work I planned a morning run. I was a little sluggish to begin with having not had too much rest between my evening activity yesterday, but I got into my stride, drawing on some determination to successfully get through my planned 7m tempo run. The  five middle miles I completed at around 8 min/mile pace and on a hilly route, with snow threatening to fall I was pleased to keep my resolve and not let my pace slip. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: finally feeling relatively germ free I looked forward to an improved Lincoln parkrun visit. Amid the snow flurries trying to fall, I ran the course in 21:52; a sub 22 minute time which I was much more satisfied with (see smiley post run photo). Upon finishing I even felt like there was a bit more left in my legs, a good sign after being completely spent last week. This was my 40th parkrun and I also managed to coincidentally finish in 40th position over all!

SUNDAY: conditions today were awful; it was cold, rain was lashing, sleet tried to mix with the raindrops and painfully splatter skin, and there was a strong wind... perfect 16 mile run long run weather then! I ran with my friend and at times I think we both questioned our sanity as we ran with icy rain driving into our faces and a strong headwind trying to make every step feel harder. But we made it, and despite the conditions threatening to make the run seem more like some kind of torture than a supposed pleasurable pastime, there were sections of shelter and rain relief which were enjoyable. Today was a day when you kind of just wanted to 'get round', so I was really happy to see that my average pace was 8.40 min/miles, and moreover my legs were not totally knackered at the end. My legs were however ripped to shreds from my ridiculous decision to wear shorts and consequential rain related chaffing issues... lets just say the post run warm shower was not as enjoyable as I would have liked! Marathon training - its not glamorous! ​

This week it seemed the full force of marathon training hit me. After a good start to the week, the latter end proved more of a challenge, with my body perhaps reminding me of what I am actually putting it through...

MONDAY: despite being under the influence of some painful DOMS lingering from the weekend's four hour Classathon and long run (more here), I took my aching limbs to a Body Pump class.

TUESDAY: today's interval run felt like never ending reps; 6 miles with 12 x 400m and 200m recoveries. I aimed to run the intervals at 5k pace, and bar a couple which were fractionally slower, kept to this target well. Focusing on the run in question meant I was able to ignore the lashing ran pelting against my body, until that is I finished my run at the gym and took my bedraggled and cold self to an abs class-  not the best idea!

WEDNESDAY: an easy paced 8 miles. I found I could keep my pace under control (average 8:45 min/mile) as having to run straight after work in order to finish in time for my Body Pump class meant I still felt quite full from a late lunch. As I weaved through Lincoln's streets 8 miles seemed long as the darkness meant I was trapped from venturing away from the street lit roads.  Body Pump afterwards was much tougher following a longer mid-week run. 

THURSDAY: this was my hardest non-long run to date, and on tired legs I had to push hard to keep my tempo run on target; 6 miles with the middle 4 miles at half marathon pace (between 7.50-8 min/mile). It took real mental strength to believe I could do it and not give up, and I was extremely welcome when I made it home. Sitting, trying to recover I realised that with switching rest days last week I had exercised for 7 days consecutively,  clocking up 42 miles and 7 exercises classes in the process - ouch. It was no wonder my body felt knackered.

FRIDAY: Rest Day - this was needed immensely. In fact I crashed badly today and had zero energy, struggling with aching limbs, painfully sore feet and a weary mind. I think my body was telling me something!

SATURDAY: I woke today feeling less like I had been hit by truck, but with the murmurings of a cold. I was therefore not expecting miracles on my trip to Lincoln parkrun. However as our Run Director aptly reminded us all; parkrun is a run, not a race, so I don’t expect to be hitting PBs or perfect runs every week – that is not all parkrun is about! I set off with my usual gusto and was on track for about half the course. I then faded with my legs struggling to find that extra push to keep my pace, and I finished in 22:11. Considering how awful I felt yesterday and with a weary body I was happy, especially as it was another bumper turn out for our Lincoln event.

SUNDAY: my cold made its presence fully felt today, and after a disturbed night’s sleep I knew I would wake to the prospect of a long run feeling slightly rubbish - great! My 16 miles were so much better than I anticipated though. To begin it felt like a struggle, the cold air hurt my chest and my breathing felt out of sync, but as I met my friend (see images) and we ran together my mind was soon taken off over analysing how my body felt, and I could just let the miles tick by. I think we were both shocked to read our final Garmin stats – my watch showing 16 miles with an average pace of 8:38 min/miles - a pace I would have thought I could only be capable of feeling in my best condition. Another long run in the bag, and another made much more enjoyable and rewarding through running together. Now I must try and shift this cold ASAP and ensure I look after myself a little bit better for the remaining 11 weeks! ​

How have four weeks passed already!? It is now just 12 weeks until race day… madness!

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: tonight’s intervals seemed tougher than past weeks, predominantly due the fact I felt under fuelled and lacked a bit of extra energy. Nevertheless 6 miles were completed with 5 x 1km reps at roughly 7.20/7.30 min/mile pace with 200m recoveries in between.

WEDNESDAY: what should have been a welcomed 7 easy paced miles was actually a lot harder in practice. Whilst I managed to rein in my pace a little, averaging 8.40 min/miles, it was tough. The bitter conditions felt like they were eating away at me, and without the distraction of something like intervals my mind was unable to get away from the fact it was cold and miserable! I felt tired as I finished at the gym but completed Body Pump.

THURSDAY: Rest Day

FRIDAY: another 7 miles alternating between slower and quicker miles. I wasn’t really relaxed on this run either; my rest day yesterday had been due to a sore foot and I was thus slightly paranoid that something was going to happen as I ran. Thankfully I survived, alternating between 8.30-8.40 min/miles and faster 7.30-7.40 min/miles.

SATURDAY:  today I had organised a Classathon fundraiser at my gym for my London Marathon charity, Project Africa Athletics (see images). The four hour session included back to back Body Pump, Body Attack, Body Combat and finally Yoga classes. I completed all the classes alongside the company of so many wonderful other people who supported my event. I lost count of how many took part throughout the entire four hour session, but a hardy eleven others also joined me in the full four hour marathon. We challenged ourselves, we laughed (and not just at my appalling flexibility in Yoga!) and we sweated a lot! The day reminded me of why I love group exercise classes so much and also the number of people I have met through taking part in them. After running it’s the next best thing!

This week I have enjoyed my running a lot, which is something I think is equally as important as just getting the miles in. I always say to people I enjoy training for marathons almost as much as the day itself – which is a good thing when it virtually takes over my life for sixteen weeks at a time!
 
MONDAY: Body Pump class
 
TUESDAY: today’s interval run felt happily manageable; 6 miles with 3 x 1 mile reps at 10k pace, with 400m recovery in between. My splits were good, well within my target pace, and whilst mile reps can sometimes feel like they go on forever, tonight I felt in control.
 
WEDNESDAY: I wanted to be disciplined on today’s run and complete a steady 6 miles at my plan’s suggested pace of 8:30 min/miles. I was however scuppered by a dead Garmin watch, and with no time to charge it, I had to run to feel. Whilst sometimes the freedom of running without a watch can be liberating, tonight I was a little frustrated. I still got a good run in, but the lack of numerical feedback was a slight anomaly in an otherwise good week. Body Pump afterwards.
 
THURSDAY: my first ever attempt at a progression run over another 6 mile distance. I really wanted to get this right and managed to nail it with splits of 8:43, 8:09, 7:58, 7:55, 7:34 and 7:10. It wasn’t ideal; I struggled to keep my pace in check in the early miles and had planned to run a lot slower at the start. When I recorded a near 8 minute second mile I swore to myself and thought I had blown it. From then on I really had to dig deep to keep my splits sub 8 minutes. The last mile was mad, I ran like someone possessed, tearing along until I could triumphantly slam stop on my watch!
 
FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: a trip to Lincoln parkrun which saw me leave with a surprise new PB of 21:25. I was shocked, I had not expected it at all, and even when I was running I did not even contemplate I might be heading towards a PB. ​Having reflected afterwards why this week had been any different I believe there is a good correlation between when I run well during the week and my subsequent parkrun performance. Thursday’s progression run had given me confidence to push my legs and trust they could perform when tired, and I guess this extra belief was in my mind as I completed my 3.1 miles whether I was fully aware of it or not. My first PB of 2017 and also another record breaking attendance for the Lincoln parkrun event - a staggering 452 runners. 
 
SUNDAY: following on from yesterday’s good run, today was another happy experience. Stepping out the house my mobile phone told me it was – 6 degrees; I was wearing my tiniest running shorts and even my hard-core legs squirmed a little as I ran to meet my friend for a 14 miler. The winter morning did not stop us though; we explored a new running route which led us through some beautiful scenery which was being enhanced further by the icy conditions (see images). Breaking away from familiar pathways made the distance seem even more enjoyable and is definitely something I would recommend to keep long runs feeling fresh. We finished with an average pace of 8:40 min/miles; I had not been paying much attention to our pace throughout and this was another happy surprise. Today didn’t feel like training, it felt like a day just to be happy to be running. ​

​Week two of training saw the revelation that on Thursday it was in fact 100 days until the London Marathon itself. This sounded scarily close! I trust my training programme and the sixteen week approach I like to adopt for marathons, however there was still a little bubble of panic which rose inside me upon reading this!

MONDAY: from now on Mondays should always be a rest day according to my plan. For me they are always running rest days, but I still like to sneak into a Body Pump class at my gym!

TUESDAY: a muddly 4.5m interval run with lots of short, sharp reps. I find this type of training run a bit disjointed, especially as the evening darkness prevents me from running on my more favourable riverside track, which usually helps limit further interruptions such as road crossings. I ran my 12 x 200m intervals at 5k pace with 200m recovery periods in between, it felt hard but not as lung busting as some interval workouts can be.

WEDNESDAY: some seriously strong headwinds helped me slow my pace on a steady 5 mile loop. Why does the wind always seem to be blowing in your face when you are running uphill?! Body Pump afterwards

THURSDAY: 5 miles of tempo running, with the three middle miles between 8 min/mile and sub 8min/mile pace. It was bitterly cold out and I felt it took my legs a bit of time to get fully going, but when they did I enjoyed pushing the tempo pace.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: a much more satisfying trip to Lincoln parkrun this week. I ran more positively; my body and mind felt in sync almost and I didn’t feel the need to keep glancing at my watch, which is always a good sign for me at parkrun. My time reflected an improved performance, back in the sub 22 minute zone with a time of 21:49. 

Moreover, it was also a great day for our Lincoln event as the record attendance number was beaten with a whopping 426 people completing their Saturday morning 5k – amazing! I then went for my third Body Pump stint of the week.
​
SUNDAY:  on a soggy, grey morning I weaved a quiet 12 miles through the countryside (see image) – it seemed no one else dared brave the elements. Despite the minimal distractions I didn’t really keep my pace in check, and at first I ran a lot quicker than the suggested 9min/mile pace of my plan – at one point I logged an 8 minute/mile! In the end I reined my pace in a bit, finishing with an average of 8.37 min/miles. It was a solid base run, I felt satisfied after but not knackered. Next week mileage starts to creep up a little and I am definitely ready for the challenge. ​

Here we go… my journey to the London Marathon has begun. This week’s mileage has not felt too indifferent to some of my recent running weeks, if anything pace demands have been a bit slower than I am used to. In week one this was not really a shock though, although the reappearance of intervals was a bit of a jolt to the system!

MONDAY: a short, easy 3 mile run to kick off training. It was extremely icy underfoot, I nearly slipped numerous times, and the ice patches were very difficult to spot. The conditions helped me dramatically slow my pace down though and keep some discipline.

TUESDAY: hello intervals…you’ve not been missed. This was not a particularly hard interval session with 5 miles including 4 x 800m, but having avoided running intervals for a while I seemed to have forgotten how tough they can be. I pushed hard on the intervals, probably going too quickly, running more like 5k pace than my plan’s suggested 10k pacing. There will be bigger tests to come.

WEDNESDAY: another run completed a bit too quickly with 4 miles logged at roughly 8 minute/mile pace, when I was really aiming for 8.30 minute/miles. It has been hard at times to adapt my pace this week, but I am very confident marathon mind-set, plus undoubted marathon fatigue, will soon help with that. I attended my usual Body Pump class afterwards for the first time since a festive break;  it hurt... a lot! 

THURSDAY: a steadier 4 miles at 8.25 minute/mile pace after a Sports Massage earlier in the day. After being manipulated and prodded I then subjected my legs to the Baltic conditions, donning my shorts to run in despite the minus 2 degree temperatures!

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: the first Lincoln parkrun of 2017. It felt tough today; so much so that I even found myself questioning what lap I was on as I pushed my legs around. Sadly I had only completed lap one at this point and still had two more to go...! I did not finish with a bad time, 22:04, but after a few weeks of running sub 22 mins it is funny how your goalposts shift a little. It was however fabulous to see so many runners attend the Lincoln event in what was a record breaking weekend for parkrun attendances across the whole of the UK.

SUNDAY: on a surprisingly mild morning I enjoyed an 11.5 mile run with my friend tackling a few of our ‘favourite ’hills. The run was further and faster (average 8.48 min/mile) than the 8 miles at 9min/mile pace my plan prescribed, but when you enjoy a run does it really matter? My plan is there as a guide for me; it is an ambitious plan and I know in weeks to come it will test me hugely. The main thing is I want to enjoy my training, so a few tweaks and changes along the way are not something I am going to panic about. Onto week two.  ​

It is just over three weeks until my official London Marathon training begins and my attention has thus started to shift towards making sure I am literally ready to hit the ground running in January. I have chosen my training plan, have new running trainers sat patiently waiting to be christened, and perhaps most importantly, I have selected my race goal…

Those of you who have followed some of my running before or read my race reviews will probably be able to guess what time I am aiming for in London – the elusive sub 4 hours! In 2015 I completed the London Marathon in 4hrs 9mins 31secs, for my first marathon I was very happy with this; I didn’t have a time to beat and whilst I of course just wanted to complete a marathon, around the four hour mark was what I had my sights sets on. Having caught the marathon bug I attempted a sub 4 hr time at the Manchester Marathon earlier this year; this did not go to plan however and saw me finish in 4hrs 56mins 24 secs. I picked myself up and tried again though, this time at the Berlin Marathon also this year. In the German capital I finished narrowly over four hours, crossing the line in 4hrs 44 seconds. Hand on heart I can say I was not upset with this time at all, the race was too amazing to feel any slight sense of disappointment.

I feel running a sub four hour marathon is realistic and I know I have it in me. Whilst I have this time goal though, I am not going to let it overshadow how amazing it will be to be back on the streets of London again. I want to enjoy every moment of the marathon like I did back in 2015, even the never ending feeling of running down The Mall when the finish line seems to be getting no closer!

I'm in; I am running the London Marathon 2017.

I have been keeping this quiet for a few weeks now, waiting for everything to be finalised, but now I can finally say with a huge smile that I will be one of the thousands of runners taking on the streets of London in April next year. 

The London Marathon is special to me. I ran the race in 2015 (see blog), my first ever marathon, and in crossing that finish line I also completed a lifetime goal. Looking back on that day now I am proud of myself; running wise I stepped up from being a novice 10k runner to a marathoner, whilst training for and completing that race also showed huge progress and personal development from the person I was as a teenager and made me realise how much running had changed my life for the better. 

I didn't get a ballot spot for the 2016 race but was still there supporting my friend. That day was equally as special (see blog) and just added to the treasured memories the London Marathon holds for me. 

Like so many others I arrived home a few months back to find a sad little parcel sat on my doorstep - I instantly knew it was a 'no' from the London Marathon due to the bulging rejection jumper sat inside (which is annoyingly rather nice!) I was sad to start with, but knew I had to be grateful I had at least experienced the wonder of London before. I began to explore other spring marathon options, however as I did this my heart kept pulling me back to London. 
​
I ran the London Marathon for charity in 2015 and raised £2000 for vInspired - a youth volunteering charity who had supported me develop a community football project a few years ago. If I was to run for charity again it had to be a cause that I felt passionate about. I love to run and, quite simply, running has changed my life. So when the opportunity was presented for me to support and raise awareness of Project Africa Athletics through completing the London Marathon in 2017 I couldn't say no....