Two weeks ago at this moment I was in a not so mild panic at the thought of running over 26 miles the next day!
What an experience! From start to finish I think I grinned the whole day. It didn't start so well with me getting almost to the station and realising that I'd left my running belt with drinks, food gel etc back at the hotel... Argh... Looked like a complete idiot turning around to go back, then changing my mind two or three times! In the end I didn't bother. I saw someone looking as petrified as me on the platform and we got chatting. We stuck together until the start, which was nice, and I'd also arranged to meet the other Parkinson's runners who were going from Blue start to get our photo taken.
It was all amazingly well organised and with 20 minutes to go we got into our pens (I was right at the back in pen 9, of course!) As soon as I got there I wanted to go to the loo again. Took us 15 minutes to get to the start line, I waved at Kate, Wills and Harry, then shot out to the first bank of toilets!
Then I was on the way properly - the atmosphere was incredible with crowds everywhere, music along the way, and people handing out food. With all that and the drinks / lucozade / gel stations at regular intervals, I really didn't need my own supplies. In fact, if I never see another jelly baby that would be fine! Parkinson's UK had cheering spots in several places and at the 19 mile mark my lovely friend was there with a latte - just exactly what I needed. They talk about hitting the wall, but I never did - my pace was steady and my sister who was tracking me, said my splits were really even. I'm pleased with my time of 6 hours 8 minutes and 23 seconds... I could have pushed faster but wanted to enjoy the experience - which I certianly did.
I thought I'd be more emotional at the finish, but I was so buoyed up that I was okay, and I could almost feel Christopher's pride (and slightly bemused amazement!). Went off to the Parkinson's reception for a massage, pasta and shower - discovering that my sock was all blood round the toes though I never did work out from where and nothing hurt. I was slightly stiff for a couple of days but no major pain and no blisters!
So here's some evidence. I haven't quite gathered in all my sponsor money, but it looks like I've raised around £1600.