Fiona28 has totally captured the atmosphere of this the friendliest of Marathons. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would run 26.2 (26.78!) smiling most of the time – I just did not want it to end. What made it really special was not only the support of the watching crowds but the support of the participants – the local guys who told you what to expect over the next 6 miles or so – when to hold back, when to let rip, when to walk thru a water station to get your strength for the next slight incline (course pretty much flat). I have never ever been in a race where folk you sprint past at the finish congratulate you seconds later – so gracious, so generous.
It was just one of those days you occasionally get when everything comes together – I kept my head and looking at my splits I managed a marginally faster second half. Mile 22 was the most demanding – the realisation that I was now in unknown territory. A long slurp of powerade, and the best slice of water melon I have ever tasted got me sorted. Five days on I still feel on top of the world. Yes Elaine, I have the marathon bug. And for sure what I talk about when I talk about running has changed forever.
Jackie all the best for NY – the tapering works. And limited sleep and a McDonalds including a gloriously unhealthy McFlurry – dairy milk (me), crunchie (Fiona), smartie (Joc) a day or so before doesn’t seem to matter!