It ended up being a tough marathon as a result of the heat. The hottest London Marathon on record. It was quite scary as people were collapsing all over the place and requiring paramedic assistance. I usually hit the wall after mile 18 but this time I could feel discomfort from mile 8!!
I had to really slow the pace. I didn’t want to find myself in the back of an ambulance like so many other runners around me. I told myself to be sensible and walk when I had to. I found myself fixating on looking out for the next water station so I could pour the water over my head and down the back of my neck. I usually only take a couple of gels but this time required all 4 gels. I also always miss out the lucozade stops but this time I stopped for a couple of sips in order to keep energy and salt levels up.
By mile 24 my mind was screaming at me to stop and walk but when I checked my watch I could see that if I kept running I would make it in 4 hours 30 mins which was the time I had in mind. I decided to dig in deep and keep going – that way it would be over sooner!
So I finished in 4 hours 29 minuets which I was pleased with. It wasn’t the sub 4 hours I had at one stage been aiming for but given the injury and weather conditions not bad at all.
So I managed to raise £5,500 for Alzheimer’s Research UK which is fantastic. I am overwhelmed and touched by the generosity of all my friends, family and colleagues. It makes the effort of months of training, the stress of injury and melting in the heat on the marathon course all the more worthwhile!!
Living In The Moment With Dementia 