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.
Parkrun results: Bolton Parkrun: Matt Carney 30:22, Lynda Hardman 32:12 and Rachel Hancock 58:57. Rachel’s 300th Parkrun 👏👏👏 Haigh Woodland Parkrun: Andy Laycock 24:03 (3rd in age category), Chris Baker 24:36, Brian Halton 24:50 (1st in age category), Greg Kilshaw 27:33, Katie Edern 33:28 (3rd in age category), Chris Taylor 33:40 and Karen Taylor 36:42. ... Parkrun Results
Jo competed in the Media City 5k festive run. This is the first festive run that has been arranged by Runthrough. The run followed the same route as the Chase the Sun Race series, consisting of 2 laps around Media City. Jo had an amazing run finishing the race in 22:29. She was the third ... Media City Festive 5k
5 Lostockers joined 155 to complete the MadbullSanta Dash. Fancy dress is a requirement to take part in this race and participants did not disappoint. On the start line there were a plethora of Santa’s but also the Grinch, elves, reindeer, snowmen and even a Christmas cracker! This is always a tough race starting ... Madbull Santa Dash