Not My Year: London Marathon 2024

Posted: 21 Apr 2024 23:09

Today saw the London Marathon take place in London, of all places. Who’d have thought it! So many wonderful, amazing runners descended on the capital to run 26.2 miles. Despite getting through the ballot, a rotten run of bad luck meant 2024 was not my year. I’ve had to defer my entry to 2025. But that didn’t stop me watching the event this year on the BBC and appreciating the determination of all of those that took part.

Well Done to Everyone

To all those that finished this year, I have nothing but admiration. The sheer dedication that is involved in training for a marathon. Consistently turning up for every training session. Turning down social occasions because you have to do a long run in the morning. Putting your training sessions ahead of family time. It takes a certain type of person to do it. You are all amazing. Maybe you smashed your personal best. Or maybe you just managed to crawl around. You did amazing. 26.2 miles is no easy feat.

Take the time now to reflect on your success. Have a drink or two. Get some well earned rest. Enjoy some family time. You should all be proud. Every single one of you is a winner.

Deferring My Place

Much to the disgust of some on X.com, formerly Twitter (will we ever drop the Twitter name?) I have been able to defer my place to next year. Now, you might not agree with this as well due to how hard it is to get a place through the ballot. But, considering I have applied nearly every year for around 17 years before I got a place, it would be a shame to miss out due to an injury and sickness. Injuries unfortunately do happen, no matter how careful you are. Find me any runner who can, with hand on heart, tell me they’ve never had an injury!

I do however understand the frustration at those who get a place but do not train sufficiently and decide not to do it. It pisses me off too! This isn’t the case with me. So give me a break.

Anyway, time to update the blog title. 2024 was not my year. Now it’s my road to London Marathon 2025!