Lisa Snell writes:
Running London Marathon puts you under pressure but double pressure to have Ealing Eagles RC on your vest because you want to do your best. Monday evening taper run didn't go to plan and I feared an old old injury was coming back. Walking on Tuesday morning I could still feel it at times. I was straight on the phone to my chiropractor to see if she could help. Thursday evening I was on the bed getting it sorted or hoping it was. Resting was hard not doing much leading up to Sunday.
Race day is here.....
Up at 5am ...trying to eat breakfast was hard going.... (Should of done what others did and eaten on the coach or at Blackheath)
Swop from rucksack to running belts so that you could see who I ran for.
The coach journey was quick. Caro showed me her race breakdown and where landmarks were. That actually helped as I did remember Tower Bridge is about 1/2 way.
I had a 3-hour wait which was fine at first but then it started raining. Lucky I had a poncho to keep me somewhat dry except the poor feet.
And we are off, still raining so cardi and poncho still on till I warmed up. Puddles, big puddles not great along the way. Trying to avoid as much as possible as my trainers were heavy enough already.
All going well...and flew passed my cheer squad at mile 7. I then felt as if I needed a wee so decided to stop just before mile 15... couldn't wee. Mile 18 I saw my cheer squad which was great! It was getting harder now, blisters were starting to hurt on my feet. At mile 21 decided I would do some walking as my legs were stiffing up and my blisters were painful. I then had to decide do I want to enjoy the day or maybe hurt myself more due to poor running technique. Sulking a little I decided I would soak up the atmosphere. The bands they had playing on the route were great...steel, brass bagpipes and many more. People had little discos from their balconies too enjoying being a DJ for a short time.
Mile 23 and a bit the Eagles cheer squad. I had decided I wouldn't step up but thought now I might as well. Well, that was hairy, bottles, cans all along the wall so walking it was a must. I got to see my husband and son this time as he was on the other side of the road last time. High fives and a kiss from hubby spurred me on. I had some ibuprofen on me so I took those. 20mins in and I could start running again without much pain. Why didn't I take them sooner?!
Low battery...oh come on watch I have to have the full distance at least !
Big Ben... not far now along Birdcage walk.... and I was running well into the finish!
The relief I had was that I had completed the distance.. but was disappointed not being able to run it the way I wanted.
My cheer squad were fantastic following me around and other friends I saw on route. The Mile 23 and a bit cheer squad were great
Thank you Eagles RC for giving me the chance to run London.... would I do that all again....Of course !