Once the gun went off, it took about 2 minutes to get through the start and start running. It was a leisurely start (which included an unscheduled toilet stop after about 400 yards) as the roads were congested and it was very difficult to get past anybody at this stage.
The first few miles were relatively slow due to the congestion (25+ minutes for the first 5k), but it was a good opportunity to get into a rhythm and take in the atmosphere, which was building as we went along. Kids at the side of the road high-fiving us all, sweets being handed out, bands playing and people shouting. All was good in marathon world.
I was running with a fellow Roys Runner, Dave, and we managed to pick the pace up a little after this for the next ten miles or so and our 3.30 target was still in sight. Reaching Tower Bridge at the halfway point was so uplifting and the noise generated by the crowds was unbelievable. Having my name printed on my top was a great idea as it seemed like every other person was shouting 'Go Bryan', keeping my spirits sky high with my own personal fan base! I had passed the half way point in 1.47 (including a toilet stop) and was feeling good! At about mile 17, things started to get a little bit tougher with my legs starting to feel pretty heavy. I dont think the heat helped me at all and looking back I was probably a little dehydrated. Mile times started to reflect this and I saw my target slipping away. It was quite difficult to let the target go, but it was a simple choice: chase the time and risk not finishing or make sure I finish the race. There were enough casualties on the side of the road to help me make that decision.
Going through Canary Wharf, the noise again was a powerful ally, and this enabled me to overtake Darth Vader, Spiderman and Wonder Woman ... things were looking up! Once out of Canary Wharf, the next few miles were difficult, with mile times creeping up to 9 minute miles, although the support was relentless. Many times during these miles I wanted to stop and walk for a few metres, but the thought of stopping whilst people were cheering me on was too big of a deterrent. I was in good company though. Whilst I felt myself slowing a little, this was compensated by the fact I seemed to moving through the field. I was slowing down but gaining places ... how does that work?!
Passing the Houses of Parliament and then on to Birdcage Walk gave me a great boost, I was nearly there! Then, on Birdcage Walk, I spotted my support crew, Lynn, Bob & Lisa, and that was a brilliant feeling. Bob was there 'doing the Rafa', so I did too, which meant that it was game over and I had completed the marathon. Well, almost, just 600 metres to go. The finish was a bit of a blur. I remember being so relieved to finish and so emotional. Once through the finish gate I couldnt speak to the people handing out the medals, the kit bag or the goody bag for fear of sobbing in front of them! A 20+ year ambition realised, with my energy levels just about reaching empty, but I had done it, and running all of the way too! Although my stretching target of 3.30 wasn't realised, I had managed to do it in 3 hours and 42 minutes, coming in 5,287th place, ahead of 30,000 others ... which was nice!
Overall, the London Marathon was everything I had built it up to be. If any of you have any slight thoughts or inclinations about doing this in the future, do it. Do it. Do it. It is well worth the sacrifice and the training that you have to put in. I will gladly sponsor and support you as you have generously sponsored me!
On that note, thanks to all of you who have both supported and sponsored me. I have been able to raise almost £2,000 for a very worthy charity in memory, and in honour, of Kath Lawrenson, a dear friend and work colleague, whilst realising a lifetime ambition.
From now on, you will hear no more of the London Marathon from me ... for this year anyway!!
Bryan
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