Reet, where do I start?
My last marathon was back in 2018 in Manchester, where despite doing a decent time it lead to the start of my ongoing injury problems (not that I ever mention my injuries). So I decided never to do them again. Playing football until 40 was the real reason behind these injuries (although I was rarely injured playing). Plus age and bad biomechanics catch up to you.
Anyhow, roll on 2024 and me and my three lads decided we wanted to raise as much money as possible for local charities in memory of my wife Sarah who passed away in 2022. A great servant of the Saltwell Ladies.
One of distances Sarah loved was the marathon so I thought ‘let’s do it’. Initially I wanted to do Athens as Sarah used to work there back in the day and it’s the original marathon. However, it was sold out. Around that time I forgot I’d entered London and to my surprise I got accepted. Damn, this just got real.
The training
So training was about to commence in January but I had the lurgy and norovirus. So put back four weeks. No problem. It’s not like I’m Mo Farah.
Along with weekly physio sessions and recovery sessions in the gym (ask Barry and Sam), I worked up to 40 mile per week. Not ideal but it will do. I’m a stone heavier and seven years older than the last marathon, so recovery was key.
The weekend
Started well. Had some Tube rage with a local.
Met my mate John who organises the GNR for a pizza and a pint or two. Talked about what the weather forecast was like. No problem. Wrong.
The big day
Third time at this and the atmosphere is the best. Yes it was hot. Very hot. Some of the older members will know I’m a bit partial to severe nipple bleeding so this year I applied kinesio tape — perfect (thanks Jim Thompson).
I had in my head I would be happy with four hours but could push to 3.30 or under on my day as training had gone well and CV was good. However got carried away doing 7.40 average miles. Cruising, or so I thought… At mile ten my sciatic nerve in my left hamstring flared up. Not good. But pulling out was not an option. Battle on for the last 16!
Miles 16 to 18 slowed a lot. Put a couple of fast miles in about mile 20 but the street sign said mile 19!
Slowed a lot the final 5 miles — walking and jogging. Had to make a pit stop to the first aid. Strangely I didn’t get any volunteers to apply vaseline but I felt much better. Battled through to the end and vowed never again. The story continues…
The stats
- 27.35 miles ran not 26.2 (running around people);
- 500 kids high-fived;
- 20,000 mates shouting my name;
- 10 litres of sweat;
- 2 hamstrings goosed;
- 5 pints drank after so far.
It was another great experience that every runner should try although my hips and back have spoken and said ‘never again’.
Scott Garrett
