To want to do the London marathon

[Spck]

So watched a lot of the coverage today and so want to enter for April 2023. Is it worth the dark winter months of training for the buzz of crossing the finishing line in April?

This thread has inspired me. I'm about to dust off my running shoes and try a few km.

Running the marathon is one of the best things I'll ever do. The event day was indescribable and felt like I'd properly accomplished something (which, outside of work, is a bit of a rare feeling in your adult life). It just takes a LOT of training. And weaning yourself off booze. And eating half decently. You do become a bit boring because all you're doing in your spare time is running or thinking about running. But because next year is back to April, in my mind, as a non-elite, pretty slow runner, it's doable from scratch from January 1st so not a bad way to kick the year off. The feeling of getting that medal is euphoric!!

Just remember that the ballot is based on luck and you're much more likely to not get a place. They reckon about 17,000 spots in the ballot are allocated, from 350k+ entries. Compare that with basically any other marathon in the UK, if you want to run it you can just sign up and pay the fee, boom you're in. There are lots to choose from!

My first marathon was a women-only trail race in Devon, now that was an experience! Wasn't prepared for the rutted farm tracks and hills, but there was a lovely see view for the last few miles...

A work colleague did it. I spoke to her yesterday, she said it was the hardest, and also the most life-affirming thing she's ever done.

Did you get a spot OP?

No! Disappointed :(

I didn’t get in either :( I really wanted to do it ! Maybe one day 😌

If a full marathon seems daunting, consider the London Landmarks Half marathon? It goes round some of the main central London landmarks (unsurprisingly) and has an incredible atmosphere. It is organised by the charity Tommy's but people run for other charities, or just for themselves too. It's at the beginning of April (so you've missed next year's unfortunately).

Honestly, don't be disappointed about not getting a ballot place. Just run Brighton or Edinburgh in April instead. They're both huge city races on flat courses with loads of support; less hassle logistically; and easier to get a decent time on as you don't have as much weaving about.

Don't be too disappointed. There are better marathons to do than london.