Marathon Day

That’s me on Marathon Day! Tim and I completed the marathon wearing big balloon Buddha hats. The run was without doubt one of the most difficult and most enjoyable things I have done in my life. It’s such an epic thing to do. I think I went out a little too fast in the first half and then suffered a bit in the second half, as is apparent in my pace graph. But the crowds really keep you going, especially if you are wearing something a little unusual - there are other photos of me here. My time was 3 hours 33 mins and 3 secs, which I was reasonably happy with in the end. Hundreds of people must have shouted my name, or ‘go on balloon man’, and this really makes a difference, really kept me going. The rain and hail was a challenge leading up to Docklands, which I found the most difficult part of the route - fewer supporters and you know you still have quite a way to go. My favourite part was running along the Embankment - so many people, so much noise and you know you’ve nearly finished, although it was really hard. Overall just a fantastic thing to do and I would definitely do it again - maybe the year after next! But I’m already planning my next run, the more sedate London Chest Hostital 10k in June.

Thanks so much to all who sponsored me. It is very much appreciated. I would also like to say a special thanks to the following people:

• Maitripushpa for all the love, support, enthusiasm, massage, yoga and so much else - I’m so lucky!
• My running partner Tim, who had a difficult experience leading up to the marathon because he was ill but came through with flying colours. I couldn’t have asked for a better marathon buddy.
• The band Inflatable Buddha for their kind and helpful e-mails.
• Anthony Wright for lending me his heart rate monitor and for marathon advice.
• Chris Robson of Mad Professor Ltd for the amazing balloon Buddha hats. Extraordinary.
• Vics for the digital camera and for meeting up after the marathon and providing me with warm clothing - I think I might have got hypothermia otherwise.
• Mike ‘Iron Man’ Heels for all of his motivational words and assistance.
• Dan Dobie for organising the club night down in Brixton with the proceeds going to our marathon fund - very generous and much appreciated.
• Padmadhara for providing British Museum exhibition tickets for our prize draw.
• …and the many other people who have helped us along the way.

The prize draw will be made next Monday. Watch this space to find out if you have won an exciting prize!