Laura to the rescue in first marathon!

[Hillrunner2201]

After months of training (and weeks of faffage preparing what to take etc) I finished my first marathon at the weekend.

First rookie error-I forgot to turn my garmin on to get a gps signal before crossing the start line. This was after waiting around about 20 minutes after the starting gun fired as well!! So I ran for just over a mile before I finally got a signal and then in my excitement made the second rookie error of not looking where I was going and nearly tripping on a pothole in the road.

All went ok after this though and I settled into a steady pace getting to the halfway point in just over 2 hours. The next little problem was my running belt falling off around mile 15. Arrghh, I had visions of having to carry it in my hand for rest of the run or trying to store some gel in my small pocket and dumping it but I somehow managed to fix it (albeit upside down).

Around mile 19 I got some lucozade from the drink station. It was very warm, I was flagging a bit and I forgot to sip slowly and took some big swings instead. I think this might be the reason I started getting a stitch after about another mile. This is when Laura came to the rescue with her words from the c25k! Deep breaths, exhale slowly and slow right down. It worked (thanks Laura 👍) Unfortunately I did have slow right for a few miles. I managed to not have walk any of it but this bit was a slow jog. The 25 mile marker magically gave me a second wind though and I picked up the pace for the final mile. I finished in just under 4 hours 30 minutes, but this was much more a learning experience that about going for a time. Thanks for the marathon advice on here folks, it all helped 👍

[misswobble Marathon]

Well done! Congratulations!!! Bit of a worry with the belt falling off! Ruddy thing! I can't imagine NOT having to walk at any point, wowsers!

I think we all fluff the Garmin thing. Well, I know I do. There's so much other stuff you're trying to remember isn't there

You did it though, and lived to tell the tale. I dare say you'll now be searching for another one. Do rest up a bit first won't you

By the way, did you get any bling?

[Hillrunner2201 Marathon in reply to misswobble]

I'm tempted to do another, but I've got a couple of hm's coming up so will try to concentrate on those. I'm having a week off now though which is always dangerous for entering races!!

I did get some nice bling, will try to remember to post a picture when I get the chance.

[ancientrunner Half Marathon]

Well done - great time. That hanging around does throw things out. Glad you got the belt sorted, would have been aright pain trying to carry it. Put your feet up now.

[Hillrunner2201 Marathon in reply to ancientrunner]

Yes it such a relief to sort that belt out.

[C3PO Marathon]

Well done! That was a good time, as well. You handled your challenges really well. I've had experience with similar problems, so I'm impressed.

[Tomas Marathon]

Wow, it sounds like you did really well despite a few troubles. Sub 4:30 sounds great, I hope you're proud of it!

I too have tried losing my running belt. The Mrs wasn't impressed because at the same time my housekey fell out of the belt and I didn't notice until I got home. Ooops!

Congratulations, you did great!

[Hillrunner2201 Marathon in reply to Tomas]

Only just sub 4:30 but I'll take it!

[ju-ju- Marathon]

Yay that is an amazing achievement and what an amazing time too! Well done, I hope you celebrated too? 😎

[Hillrunner2201 Marathon in reply to ju-ju-]

Thank you 😊 I did partake of a few celebratory drinks 🍹 🎉🍻

[Sandraj39 Half Marathon]

Congratulations! Well done on completing your first marathon - is the buzz as great as they say? I have only done one HM but maybe one day..! I imagine you must still be on a runners high! Really fantastic time too!☺

[Hillrunner2201 Marathon in reply to Sandraj39]

It was amazing. Miles 21-24 were tough but the support from the crowd was brilliant and the final mile was the best feeling so I would definitely recommend it.

[Anniemurph Half Marathon]

What a great achievement - well done! And what a fab time

[Eatcakeandrun Marathon]

Congratulations - that is a fantastic time!

Every race is a learning experience, none more so than a marathon. You did brilliantly and next time will be even more brilliant! 🏆

[Fiendarina Half Marathon]

Congratulations! Great result and amazing for coping with your belt.

[AncientMum Half Marathon]

Wow, what a great time, you must be delighted.

[Hillrunner2201 Marathon in reply to AncientMum]

Thank you! I wasn't really sure what time I'd finish in, so I was pretty chuffed.

[GoogleMe]

Just wow.

And so sweet that Laura was 'with you'!