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A record-breaking day in London......
May01201210:46 a.m.
Hi guys! Well I did it! I won the Virgin London Marathon for the sixth time to equal Tanni Grey-Thompson’s record. I was so proud and it was an emotional day for me and my family. Everything I do is for them, so it means everything when I see how proud they are of me. It’s also a great honour to be able to say that I have matched Tanni’s record, as she is such an inspiration and I have always looked up to her. I got back from Portugal on the Sunday before the marathon, where I had been warm weather training. The week of the marathon itself was quite busy but the build up was great. On the Wednesday I was involved in the Expo and was asked to cut the ribbon before it launched.

It really gets the sponsors, organisers and everyone involved excited about the weekend. The race itself was tough. The early start doesn’t bother me as I’m used to getting up early for training. But as you can imagine we are all so competitive and focused during the race so there’s not much talking amongst the athletes. People always ask me how I deal with the pressure and expectation of such a big race, but I can honestly say that it’s not something that worries me. Looking back I’m glad that the pressure doesn’t get to me because the London Marathon is an event that’s close to so many people’s hearts.
For me, I have to try and treat it like any other race and it’s only after the win that I can let myself enjoy the moment, which can get emotional! I compete in the London Marathon each year so I generally know what to expect in terms of the build up and pressure. But there’s no way I could do it on my own so thanks to everyone for their support – it really does mean a lot. I want to say massive congratulations to everyone who ran it. It’ such a great event to be a part of and everyone should be very proud of what they’ve achieved. I also want to give a shout out to Claire Lomas who is still doing the marathon on robotic legs. She is a true inspiration and everyone should get behind her and show some support!

I’ve had a couple of days off since the marathon and apart from some sore ribs I was feeling good after the race. But it’s always nice to have a bit of time off to enjoy the moment. I’ve certainly enjoyed this last week, particularly my new BMW which has an awesome sound system – thanks to the guys at BMW for sorting out this amazing car for me! I’ve also seen my physio who said I was in good shape with no tightness in my muscles. So I’m back into my training regime now in preparation for some track races in May. I’m trying to take each race as it comes but I can’t help thinking about the big event that’s coming up towards the end of the summer – London 2012 in case you were wondering! Thanks again for all your support!
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Comments (3)
Rob_Barber 'The Claire Lomas's of this world really are amazing people, it is touching that such an elite level athlete as yourself should find inspiration from the back of the pack. I hope virgin relent and put up a finish line for her and give her a very well earned medal. Great race in London, and to then see Shelley win too was fantastic - well done both of you :-)' added 1st May 2012
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HelenJacks 'that's great, congratulations :)' added 1st May 2012
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pradeepchekuri 'congrats mate...thats really great' added 9th May 2012
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