Saying Yes to the Challenge
When I was lucky enough to be offered a place at the London Marathon alongside my sister, I said yes straight away. I’d always said it would be the one marathon that I’d want to do. I was excited, but it wasn’t until the weeks leading up to it that I truly realised just how huge and unique this event is.
Shifting my training
My training had to shift completely. I went from primarily weightlifting and conditioning on the ergs to running three to four times per week, alongside mobility and strength work. I worked with a run coach who planned my mileage, structured my sessions and kept me accountable.
The first month, honestly, it was tough. Every long run over an hour hurt and mentally I was in a negative place, questioning whether I was even built for long distance running.
But in month two, things started to change. I became more comfortable with the mileage, not because everything was perfect, but because I stayed consistent.
A big turning point was my 20 mile race in Richmond. It went really well and gave me the confidence that I could handle the marathon and that my goal time was realistic.
The lead-up to the day went smoothly with a proper taper and a clear fuelling strategy. I’m 88 to 90 kilos, so I knew I had to stay on top of nutrition, taking on fuel every 30 minutes through liquids and gels.
Race Day
Race day itself was both amazing and brutal.
My sister and I set off with the goal of hitting what we managed in training. I felt prepared, but I didn’t expect to feel so nervous.
The atmosphere was incredible with supporters everywhere. Seeing my amazing wife and family twice, and Katie and Charlie at Tower Bridge, gave me a huge boost. And to the members I saw out on the course, thank you. That extra push meant a lot.
Despite the crowds and the warm weather, I felt great up to 30 kilometers. I thought I’d paced it perfectly, but I was wrong. The cramps hit me. The mental battle kicked in. My target time slipped away as I slowed to a shuffle.
It was brutal, and it happened so suddenly.
At that point, it wasn’t about time anymore. It was about finishing. I promised my son I’d bring home that medal.
Looking Back
After crossing the line and recovering, there was a bit of disappointment, but not for long, because the reality is, completing a marathon puts you in a very small group of people, and that’s something I’ll always be proud of.
Final Thoughts
Wherever you are in life right now, committing to a structured block of training, whatever the goal, can be incredibly powerful. It gives you direction, purpose, and often pushes you far beyond what you thought was possible.
It doesn’t have to be a marathon. It just has to matter to you.
And whatever that goal is, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Let us support you in your next goal.
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