spring marathoners

I'm feeling p'd off because I am absolutely fine EXCEPT for my damned knee, so I feel I could have pushed much harder if I hadn't been injured. It took me almost 6 hours because it was so painful. But now I have one titchy blister and most of my muscles are completely pain free. I did a marathon 9 years ago in 5.22 and I was in agony all over afterwards.

I said I wanted to run another marathon before I was 50, and I've done it, so I'm really pleased.... but...

Dammit I am going to see a physio and there will be a next time! Regular parkruns and interval training to improve my speed, cross training to get the strength. My new goal is to knock an hour off my time.

Oh Lady, lots of sudocrem might help?

was it hot, a friend was running, they said it was a 'heatwave'

but the medal is super-special, isn't it? well done

for all of you!

Not checked into thread for a while.

Did Paris yesterday. In 4hr 15. Well chuffed.

But I'm in pieces today. Broken. Chafed (seriously grim) and stairs are the enemy.

Well done to brightener s

Hope the day hasn't been too painful for you marathoners

I am waddling like a duck this morning as my hips are so sore! Did not expect to feel this sore as after my 20 miles I had not felt too bad the next day.

Good luck Deck at work today I hope that everyone treats you well and makes the tea for you.

Getting out of bed wasn't as bad as I thought it would be but I'm definately going to be comedy act at work today.

Must remember sun block. Although I don't think Manchester is likely to be as sunny as Brighton

Well done Lovealot - that's an amazing time!! I'm also hoping for under 5 hours but will be happy just to finish...so much depends on the day. Can't believe this time next week it'll all be done Hope you and Deck have your feet up now!

whoop whoop!

lovealot that's amazing! well done to you too

i'm so excited for VLM, won't be making anywhere near your time, lovealot, but the atmosphere will be excellent

I managed to do 4:27 so I am really happy. My goal had been 5 hours so just over the moon with my result. It was such a great day with the sun shining and crowds cheering. Now sitting on sofa with glass of wine. Also sunburnt legs as forgot to put cream on the backs.

I am almost jealous of those doing VLM it is such a great experience!

How did you get on, lovealotbear?

Well done Deck - you did it, all 26.2 miles!! Fantastic achievement considering the bad knee. Hope it's not too painful tomorrow. Can you get a massage in as I find they help my tired muscles.

congratulations, Deck

hope you're wearing your medal wherever you are now?

and had a hot/cold bath and some lovely treat food?

Ok - knee packed up at about mile 7 so I had to run/walk but I sneaked in just under 6 hours. Can hardly bear to think about what it will feel like tomorrow.

Sun burnt (even though I used cream).

26.2 miles is a long way, isn't it?

GOOD LUCK!

Good luck, Deck and Love!

I've been following a certain training plan, and had so much conflicting advice, but really, this is YOUR race - you will give it YOUR ALL!

Good luck Deck and Lovealot!! Take it steady and enjoy the atmosphere. Can't wait to hear how it goes and to get your words of wisdom for next Sunday

It feels a bit unreal.

I'm feeling under-prepared because I had to rest my knee this last week, but my head says that I've done enough long runs and in theory I should be fine.

Spent today getting weekend stuff done and a bit of gardening - such a lovely day. Had salmon for dinner and will have porridge for breakfast. I've brought fresh orange to drink just before the start - some instant energy.

I'm with some people this year and there will also be colleagues from work, but I won't be seeing them until a while after the end - I'm a slowcoach and think I'll be lucky to finish in under 5 and a half hours. But who cares? If I enjoy the race I'll use it as a benchmark for another go later in the year. I just want to get round tomorrow.

Good luck everyone!

Good luck Deck! I have spent the day packing my kit, pinning my number on and sorting out my food. It has been lovely every time I have been out I have been bumping into neighbours and friends who are asking how I am and about tomorrow. Feeling very nervous. I have done quite a few half marathons and never felt like this.

Do you have anyone coming to see you on the day? I am thinking seeing some familiar faces will pull me through after 20 miles.

Oooooh exciting Deck! That'll be me this time next week How are you feeling? What are your dinner and breakfast plans - for some reason I'm becoming fixated on food right now!!!

Race pack collected!

Anyone else running Brighton tomorrow? What are you doing today?

you WILL be fine

knackered, but fine

got a foam roller, using that is helping me no end

I'm happy with some stretching. It'll be fine.... ! [gulp]

ah shit, can you get in for a gentle massage then? even as a pamper?