3 in 4 Marathon Challenge – Robin Hood Marathon completed

Sometimes when you read marathon reviews, people can complain about the course, crowd support, road congestion for the runners, hills, weather, water stations, the other runners etc. These are all external factors.

Running this marathon wasn’t about the external factors or the location for me.

I forgot about the external factors, which weren’t important. Essentially it was the will and focus to complete the 26.2 miles, whilst mourning a loss.

Coupled with injuries my marathon preparation wasn’t the best I’ve had this year. I knew based on my training I’d get to 20 miles and struggle for the last 10k. I didn’t get enough long runs to know I’d get a PB. But I was aiming, hoping and wishing for a sub 4 hour time which I achieved through stubbornness rather than adequate training (3:50:36).

Losing someone close to you is a universal feeling. This marathon wasn’t about me, it was about you. I’m not a religious man, but I felt your spirit with me. Every time I doubted myself you were there pushing me forward, running with me.

Mile 17 my hip injury flared up, but I pushed what little I had to give.

My last 1.2mile was my fastest of the last 10k. It hurt like hell but the pain of losing you was worse than the physical pain I felt running.

I celebrate the time we had and now I just want to do you proud.

Sometimes in life we don’t give ourselves credit for what we have achieved. Yes you! Stop, look at how far you have come, when you give yourself a hard time. For example back in 2010 I ran three marathons all over 4 hours. In 2016 I’ve run three marathons all in the 3 hour range, a streak which I plan to extend in NYC.
New York I’m coming for you! X