Race report by Dave Parry:
My Marathon Journey
After seeing how well Lostock did at last year’s Manchester Marathon, I had to sign up for this year. My training went pretty well helped by motivation and tips from seasoned marathon runners in the club. I had only one case of seized muscles, sorted out by a trip to see Gareth – the proof being a PB of 1:35 at Wigan Half.
On Saturday my horse in the family sweepstake won the national “I am Maximus”. Was that a Good Omen for the Marathon?
The big day started by catching a tram packed full of runners from my parents to Old Trafford. I then navigated my way to the Start Process and joined 2,000 other runners in the Green Wave with estimated finish of 3:30 – 3:45. As the race approached I’d decided to push for 3:30. Our wave started with a fanfare and flares and we were away. I tried to relax for the first 5k and next I knew we were surrounded by crowds on Deansgate up to Peter Street. I was cautious of buildings affecting GPS so took it easy until settling into a 4:50min/km pace on Chester Road, slightly faster than target but felt right.
I passed various bands along the way, but my favourite by far was the DJ under the M60 playing L’il Louis French Kiss as I passed. I kept up with gels and water every 5km and maintained the same pace. Altrincham was a highlight with fans 5 deep, but support was very good all round. I gave a big wave to my daughter Juniper on Brooklands Road at 19 miles, still feeling pretty good. When I left Sale to rejoin Chester Road I saw a sea of runners of later waves coming the other way. I had a slight twinge in the calf and had a salt tablet and eased off, but was spurred on by the bass reverberating out from the M60. I raised a fist in salute to the DJ , this time playing Underworld Dark and Long and then was back into my running
Coming into Chorlton after 35km, I was still feeling pretty good. I knew I would see my wife and family just past the four banks and started picking up the pace. I gave an emotional wave and then I was in the Zone weaving through runners with 4km to go.
I managed to keep this going, feeling strong for a few k, finish line grtting nearer…until I bonked with One Mile to Go. At this point it was a case of gritting teeth and repeating the mantra “I am Maximus” until finally ( I’m sure it wa two miles) crossing the finish line in 3:25, which was amazing 5 mins below target.
As a Green runner, I didn’t receive a medal, just the tee and can of 0% pills. Not decided yet if I regret that now.
Many many thanks for all the support and advice over the last year and the coveted Most Improved Athlete Award. It really made all the difference.
On Sunday, 5 Lostockers joined 18,500 runners at the Manchester 1/2 marathon. The race starts at Old Trafford then heads towards Manchester City Centre, before entering the city participants completed a u-turn and heading out to Sale. The course then headed back to Old Trafford via Chorlton. Celebrating his birthday by running the race, Dave ... Manchester Half Marathon
Gaz and Rachel travelled to London to take part in the iconic Royal Parks Half Marathon. The race starts in Hyde Park before heading out the park, through Wellington Arch and Green Park, past Buckingham Palace and then along St James Park. Runners then see some fantastic sights including the Houses of Parliament, 10 Downing ... Royal Parks 1/2 Marathon
Bolton Parkrun: Rachel Hancock 37:29. Haigh Woodland Parkrun: Chris Baker 24:33 Ian Burns 30:36. Lough Key Parkrun: Matt Carney 25:25. Pennington Flash Parkrun: Mark Checkley 28:44.