Steve's 2012 London Marathon Blog by stevew71

This is not an April Fools, I completed 20.2 miles this morning! Accompanied by Dave (running the Machester marathon) and bicycle support from chief drinks carrier and motivator Ecky. We set of at 9.30 in the sun, even borrowed Mrs W's new sporty sunglasses which have now convinced me to buy some as they were fantastic. Went to Haslam Park, then followed the canal to Lea, along the guild wheel, crossed over the new bridge over the A583, down to the docks, along the river path to broadgate, through avenham and miller parks, down the back of fishwick, up to new hall lane, through both cemetrys, along Ribbleton lane to gamull, back up watling street road, twice round moor par and home !!!

Overall the pace ranged from 8.45min to 12.30min miles averaging out at 10.02, which am really pleased with. Was flagging for the last couple and everything seemed to ache but within 2mins of finishing I was ok. Had 3 drinks of lucozade sport and 2 gels along the way but still had signs of dehydration with salty parts on my face. Some fantastic contrasts of life along the way ranging from squirels in the park, peaceful and quiet on parts of the guild wheel to early WKD drinkers and people walking round in dressing gowns on the estates. Got to give praise to Preston Council for the guild wheel, although its not complete the parts we went on were fantastic and took me to places I hadnt been.

Was good to have company on the run as conversations are a good way of unknowingly eating up the miles.  Was also good to see wife and kids in the park at the end for some moral support.

Need to have a look at training plan for this week but will be resting tomorrow.