London Marathon 2012

Another year, another London Marathon. I went to check it out, again.

Sometimes it rains. Sometimes it's cold. Other times it's asolutely scorching. Regardless, the London Marathon is always a spectacle to be enjoyed; a fantasic day out, whether you're taking part of just watching. Injuries all mended I would have been keen to take part, but this year I took the easier option.

I made my way into Embankment. There, like the whole length of the race, crowds lined the route. Some of the sub-3-hours runners were making there way towards the end of the race. Being slightly slower (PB = 4.01), I am always somewhat in awe of those who take so little time to run 26.2 miles. Anyway, I took some pictures that you can see below.

Martin Mathathi breaks the Great North Run record

I'd love to take part in the Great North Run. It possibly the UK race I most want to run. However, by achilles tendon is taking forever to heal, so I am still out of action as far as running is concerned. One good thing about this is that I get to watch the events in comfort. And, with a new course record, this year's Great North Run was very much worth seeing.

Kenyan runner, Martin Mathathi, was first man over the finish line.With a time of 58 minutes 56 seconds, Mathathi become one of only 6 men to finish a half marathon in under 59 minutes. Absolutely outstanding! And I would never have seen it if I had been there running.

I'm still hopeful I'll be there one day. With a bit of luck, and a lot of stretching, I'm optimistic about being able to start running again soon. Maybe starting on a few 5Ks and working up to longer races. And if I'm up for it, and get in the ballot, next year's Great North Run. Here's hoping.

London Marathon 2012 ballot opens

The countdown to the next London Marathon has begun. Applications are now being accepted for the ballot on the London Marathon site. As before, applications will be affected by the category to which you hope to apply.

There are several categories of runner. Most runners will apply to the ballot, giving them a 1 in 5 chance of being accepted to run. Some will apply through charities or running clubs. Meanwhile especially capable runners can apply through the 'Good for age' entry process - they will be offered a place if they have a recorded race time a within a pre-determined value.

Buster Martin, world's oldest London Marathon runner dies at 104

Sad news. I read that Buster Martin, arguably the oldest person to run the London Marathon, passed away this week, on April 13. He was 104 years old.

Pierre Jean 'Buster' Martin was, by my understanding quite a character. He led an eventful life, but was best known for having run the London Marathon at the age of 101 in 2008.

Buster had become a minor celebrity over his many years. Despite repeated allegations that his life story, including his age, was fabricated, he was highly respected in many circles. Being Britain's most senior employee, he was celebrated by the media. Politicians also admired him. Former Liberal party leader Menzies Campbell said that Buster was "living proof of why people should not be written off once they pass retirement age".

A former Brixton barrow boy, Martin gained celebrity in 2007, when at the alleged age of 100, he joined men’s magazine FHM as an agony uncle. With his unkempt Captain Birds Eye beard and wry humour made him a valued addition to the magazine. He also found fame with The Zimmers, a 40-strong group of elderly rockers who had a hit with a cover of The Who’s My Generation. He then gained further attention when he finished the 10km Great London Run in 2hrs 22mins, and once more hit the news when he was reported to have single-handedly beaten off a gang of three teenage muggers.

More than anything, Buster will alwas be remembered for his London Marathon run in 2008. During the winter of 2007 he could be found staggering around Docklands in his blue tracksuit, a familiar sight that attracted many supporters who made donations to his charity, the Rhys Daniels Trust. He complete the race in just over 10 hours, a magnificent effort, raising thousands for charity.

The marathon effort was somewhat marred by the controversy over Buster's age. There is conflicting evidence about how old he was at the time - 101 or 94. Because of this he was never included in the Guinness Book of Records.

As far as I'm concerned the age debacle is irrelevant. To finish a marathon at 94 is pretty amazing by anyone's standard. And it sounds like the world lost a great character too. RIP Buster.

Marathon Training on hold again

I thought I could get back into training for some runs this summer. Alas this isn't going to happen.

As I said in my previous post, I managed a short run round the local park and nearby streets. It seemed to go well at the time. However, that same day I started noticing twinges in my achiles, telling me that I wasn't fully recovered yet. It's so frustrating, but I think I may have to sit out the summer and rest my injury a bit longer. To put it politely, it's most frustrating.

I'm going to miss some good races this summer. There's the Regents Park 1ok, Clapham Common 10 Series and Great Scottish Run to name but a few. Then there's the Royal Parks Half Marathon in October which my girlfriend Beth is running. I'm sooooo envious.

Oh well, I guess I'll just have to takke it easy for a bit longer.

First training run in seven months

I ran my first training run in seven months yesterday. It's been a long time coming (my training watch was still set to British Summer Time), but it felt good to be back training again.

Seven months of achilles pain and a aching knee is over. My run was only just over a mile, but it was pain-free: the only reason I stopped was to catch my breath from my lack of fitness. Now to ramp it up and look for races to enjoy later this year.

So what races? Ideally, I'd love to run the Istanbul Marathon later this year, but I think a more sensible ambition is required. I'm still undecided, but a 10K late in the summer may be a decent race on which to set my ambitions. The Fix Run Richmond 10K in July perhaps? Then maybe a 10 mile race or half marathon in the autumn.

Now to research those races:)

Hoping to Defeat Injuy and Run in 2011

This year is going to be about recovery from injury and starting running again. The achilles tendon injury seems to be mending and knees problems are fading. With a bit of luck I should be able to start running again in next 2-3 months.

I'm hoping to run some good races this year. One hope was to run in the Istanbul Marathon in October. How realistic this is I am not sure. It may be that I have to tone down my ambitions and aim for half marathons instead. From a recent conversation with the girlfriend, Beth, the Royal Parks Half Marathon may be a decent alternative. And the Windsor Half might be an goo option too.

Training will be interesting. I'll pretty much have to go back to scratch and start all over again. This may not be as bad as it might sound. From what I hear form athletics pundits, taking time out and starting over is sometimes the best way to achieve further PBs, rather than pressing on and on and never getting any further ahead. Plus, I've seen good evidence of this with friends.

So, with all this in mind, there's going to have to be a good bit of training ahead, but for now I'm sitting tight and letting myself heal. But if it works out well, hopefully be a good year of running, with a possible PB or two. Here's hoping.

Achilles Tendonitis Woe

I've been suffering from Achilles tendonitis. Also known as Achilles tendinitis, this is swelling of the Achilles tendon shows itself as a swelling above the heal and pain while walking. The result is a harsh pain while running and I have had to put all training on hold.

How did this happen? I think there has been a series of factors. The problem is most like to have stemmed from a footwear crisis prior to running the London Marathon. Having issues with the running shoes that I was using at the time, I decided to fall back and use an old pair rather than risk blisters from brand new shoes. Big mistake!

Now I am missing out on running. I had been hoping to run the Movember 5K in Battersea Park this November. No chance of that. Instead my race participation has, for the previous couple of months has been, and will be, helping out, marshalling or spectating. All, far from a perfect situation.

So what have I done about this? Well, 'vitamin I' (Ibuprofen) has been a big help. Also I bought some gel heel cups, which have been a huge help. The pain is less and the swelling has gone down.

Now, I just need to be patient. As for my next planned race? Probably April/May time. It's frustrating, but stories of snapped achilles tendons (!!!) and a desire not to go back to severe pain tells me the waiting is worth it.

Are any UK Marathons Boston Qualifiers?

It's not something I think about too much. Unfortunately I'm not quick enough to be thinking of qualifying for the next Boston Marathon. But, if I was good enough, could I qualify from a UK marathon time?

I was only recently emailed this very question at my website Marathon Runners Diary. "How many of the UK marathons we be recognised by Boston as a qualifier?".

As far as I'm aware, only the London Marathon meets this requirement. But, I'm not even certain of that. Some European races, such as the Berlin Marathon are Boston qualifiers. And from what I do know, it seems the vast majority of these races are in the USA and Cananda.

Anyone know any more? It would be good to know how many Boston qualifiers there are in the UK. Even if we don't make it there, it would be good to know we have an opportunity or two to do so without havng to travel abroad.

Olympic Marathon route to change for London 2012

London 2012 organisers want to alter the planned Olympic marathon route. The plan is to have the finish line on the Mall, similar to the current London Marathon. This a significant, possibly controversial, suggestion breaking with established tradition that the race should finish in the Olympic stadium.

The route change has been suggested to allow easier access for spectators and to showcase London. Organisers worry that spectators will be less inclined to flock to the sections of the race over towards the east end of the city, near the stadium. Similarly, they also don't foresee much TV interest in these 'less touristy' areas. They have proposed a new route. Runners will pass by numerous sites of interest, finally reaching the finish line at the Mall near Buckingham Palace. However not everyone is pleased.

Local officials from Newham, the Olympic host borough, have expressed their disppointment. They are strongly of the opinion that the Olympic Marathon should finish in the Olympic Stadium.

Paul Brickell, the council's executive member for the olympics said "We are disappointed London 2012 organisers are considering moving the marathon finish to the Mall, rather than the olympic stadium in Stratford".

The council is proposing a compromise that can take in the sites of central London while retaining the original promise to finish in the olympic stadium. That sounds pretty fair to me.

The Gumpathon

2 days ago 6 servicemen, 5 from Britain and 1 from the USA, set off on a 63-day run across America. Starting in New York, they will run 16 to 23 miles every day until they reach their finish line in Santa Monica, California. Inspired by Forest Gump’s epic run across America, this race has been called the Gumpathon.

The brainchild of CSgt Damian Todd RM, this race intends to raise awareness and funds to help injured servicemen. Funds will be used to help the efforts of the charities US Semper Fi Fund, Help for Heroes and the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. Donations can be given by text, online or bank transfer.

Find out more about this ambitious run and give generously.

Find out more about the Gumpathon or visit the official website.

Wimbledon 5K Dash

I always enjoy running in Wimbledon. The races are low key, mainly attended by club runners, so there are no massive crowds or walkers getting in the way. Also, it's a lovely area and starting and finishing at the running track in Wimbledon Park is something I always appreciate.

This was only my third 5K, my last attempt being almost 2 years ago. My PB was 21.45, but with training only recently having got back on track, I was realistically looking for a time below 25 minutes. The weather was a bit muggy, but that seemed a fair ambition.

The course was not overly tough, I had been warned about Church Road, a notorious hill for Wimbledon races. This was at the 2K point, and for a moment it did seem to go on forever. However, after that it was all downhill and flat terrain all the way back to the park and onto the track to the finish line.

I was knackered, but I noted my time. It was 23.46. Result!

Next stop, a 10K? I have to avenge my brotherly defeat of last year. Perhaps the Wimbledon 10K in October?

Atlanta Peachtree Road Race - Independence Day 10K

Every year the people of Atlanta, Georgia celebrate the American Independence with a 4th of July 10K through downtown Atlanta, the AJC Atlanta Peachtree Road Race. With 59,000 participants, it is the largest 10k in the world. I had the fortunate opportunity to take part.

As well as the massive number of runners the Peachtree Road Race is known for its heat. Runners start, in waves, at 7.30 am, then every 5 minutes until 9.00 am. Being the height of summer in southern USA, it pays to be able to start near the front. Luckily I started in wave B, at 7.35.

The route is hilly and all downtown. Starting at Lenox Square Mall, we ran via a number of hills, to the finish line in Piedmont Park. The most notorious hill on the way is 'Cardiac Hill' at the 4-mile point, so-called because it is located next to Piedmont Hospital. Trust me, it's well-named. I was wrecked by the time I reached the top, but it was worth it, and the organisers had the good sense to lay on some water at the top of the hill. That done, the remaining 2 miles weren't too tough. After another (not-too-tough) hill the finish came into site. I reached the line and looked at my watch. 54:16, not too bad, especially in the heat.

London Marathon Result

Hours upon hours of training, and hundred of miles of footwork, all came to a climax on Sunday. Yes, it was the London Marathon.

Despite London Underground's best efforts (the Northern line was closed) I made it to Blackheath without any bother. After some warming up, during which the elite women set off, I headed for the start line.

This time round I was at the Blue start. Last time, in 2001, I was at the Red zone. I'm not quite sure what the difference is, but my suspicion is that the Blue zone is for faster runners. Anyway, off we went.

Well, off we went for about 400m. Then, dead-stop. What the blinking flip!!!? I couldn't believe it! After all the organisation that goes into the race, and we still have to suffer a bottleneck so close to the start! PB chance? Slipping away... Luckily it all fixed itself and we were off in earnest.

The first two or three miles are always the quietest, but that doesn't last. It wasn't long before we hit the crowds. Then it was constant cheering and encouragement. This was what I remembered from my previous London Marathon, and this year's crowd was every bit as encouraging as before.

The fantastic atmosphere didn't end. From the east end pubs (The Albion, Rose of Denmark, etc), past the Gypsy Moth in Greenwich, over Tower Bridge, through Canary Wharf and onto Embankment, at last leading onto Birdcage Walk and past Buckingham Palace to the finish line, the crowds were amazing. Like many, I was a wreck at the end, but the atmosphere kept me going.

My plan of beating 4 hours fell apart at about the 20 mile stage. My legs started giving up on me, my knees in particular. My training wasn't what it should have been. I didn't do enough long runs, and I suffered for it.

The end result was i finished with a time of 4 hours 23 minutes. I've still to beat 4 hours, but the day was great fun. Perhaps I'll try another marathon later this year. With that in mind, I went to the pub:-))

London Marathon countdown

It's less that 6 days to go now. Come this Sunday I'll be doing my second marathon tour of London. As ever, I'm feeling that odd mix of dread and anticipation - dreading the pain, but anticipating the amazing atmosphere and the buzz of achievement.

This will be my 10th marathon. My first was the 2001 London Marathon. Since then I've run marathons in Edinburgh, Atlanta, Vilnius and Athens. All these have been great fun. However, nothing has been quite as invigorating or memorable as running 26.2 miles in London. So, this will be a much anticipated return to where it all started.

Peachtree 10K on 4th July. Atlanta here I come!

I just signed up for the Peachtree Road Race 10K. It took a while. The demand to take part in this race is typically phenomenal, and this year was no exception. The Active.com website crashed under the strain, and I had to wait for them to fix the problem.

The Peachtree Road Race the world's biggest 10K. This year there will be 58,000 participants. Being run on Independence Day (boo) it typically fills up in no time. I've never raced in such a big event, so it should be quite an experience.

New shoes for the London Marathon

I hate buying shoes. Even running shoes. Why some women love shopping for shoes is something that will always be beyond me. But, I needed a new pair, so I went to Run and Become and found some. I am now the owner of a nice new pair of Mizuno Wave Ultima 2.

Hopefully I can break them in before the London Marathon. Only 5 weeks to go. I hope I can do it. My old scabby pair are long past their best and I don't want to run 26 miles in shoes lacking support.

Track Closed - Training in the snow

It's a new year and the London Marathon is just over 3 months away. So, time for some serious training? Well it would be if the weather wasn't cold enough to freeze your bits off.

The track (above) is closed and the streets are covered in ice (none of the neighbours seem to have any salt to lay on the pavements). Running on ice seemed a bit silly, so I considered postponing my efforts to later in the week. However on seeing a couple of runners out facing the elements, I felt inspired. With that, and the forecast being more snow all month, I thought a short run might be a good idea to do risk the ice. And I'm glad I did. I've managed a couple of good runs. And the snow is falling again.

Christmas Partying meets Cross Country

What a weekend! What a week!

Before yesterday morning's Sunday run we were discussing the demons that runners have to cope with. Alcohol was mentioned. And, from the last week's experience, and more so this weekend running, I wholeheartedly agree.

It was Christmas party week. As ever, this involved a touch of booze. Or more correctly, a big bucket of booze.

My employers managed to find £1000 of sponsorship for the bar tab for Thursday's party. Not a huge deal if you work for a big company. However I work for a small company of 14 people, and only 10 of us could make it to the event. That made it £100 to spend on beer, spirits cocktails. etc. And, boy, did we go for it! And I paid the price.

Saturday's 5.6mile cross country was a disaster. Still feeling rough from Thurday, and having eaten nowhere near enough I set off on my second proper cross country race. Ugh!! I felt ill from the start. Cut a long story short they were taking down the finish line when I crossed it. What an embarrassment.

Sunday's run was mildly better, but I am staying well away from beer for the foreseeable future.

South of Thames 5 Mile XC + Running Club meal = Sore Head

I ran my first proper cross country this weekend. The race was the South of Thames 5 Miles at Sparrow's Den in West Wickham in Kent. It took forever to get there (tube, train, train, tram and train), but it was worth it, even if I did have to run in normal running running shoes.

Running cross country without spikes isn't easy. I had hoped to buy some shoes before the race, but to cut a long story short, I didn't get any. So I had to run in the mud, slipping about all over the place. Luckily I managed to not fall over once :-). Didn't quite win tho. LOL.

Then back home and out to the club formal. Lots of speeches and things. Lots of beer too:-) It was good fun, but Sunday was a washout. I ached like a fiend, legs and head. Ugh... My usual Sunday run was out of the question. And it rained too, so I stayed in bed.