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Results Jan-June 2024

Sikhs In The City Summer Samosa Marathon - Sunday 30 June 2024

Colworth Marathon Challenge - final standings - Sunday 30th June 2024

Colworth Marathon Challenge: Day 3 - Colworth Half Marathon - Sunday 30th June 2024

104 finishers.

Sikhs in the City, Summer Samosas 10km - Sunday 30th June 2024

Sikhs in the City, Summer Samosas Half Marathon (22k) - Sunday 30th June 2024

Sikhs in the City, Dawn to Dusk Ultra (Team) (5 x 10k) - Sunday 30th June 2024

Team result: 2nd ELR Spicers 5.32.14

Sikhs in the City, Summer Samosas Ultra - Sunday 30th June 2024

Midlands Spartan Trifecta - Saturday Sprint 5km - Saturday 29th June 2024

356 finishers. Saturday 5km with plenty of mud and 20 obstacles.

Colworth Marathon Challenge: Day 2 - Colworth Trail 8.1 miles - Saturday 29th June 2024

131 finishers. (Brand new hilly course)

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 29th June 2024

Roding Valley parkrun
25 25 Mounir DAHBI 00:23:19
32 31 Calvin BOBIN 00:24:27
63 48 Jimmy DALE 00:27:58
68 51 Tim AYLETT 00:28:26
71 19 Caroline FRITH 00:28:29
81 25 Victoria CHARLESWORTH 00:29:24
96 34 Kathy MORRISSEY 00:31:10
104 39 Caroline MOORE 00:32:02
Valentines parkrun
15 14 Amit MARKS 00:21:38
28 24 Imran MUSTAK 00:22:55
30 25 Tim LE RASLE 00:23:08
36 31 Simon NASH 00:23:34
39 33 Jason LEVY 00:23:48
54 44 Darminder BHAMRA 00:24:44
101 85 George GEORGIOU 00:27:07
136 18 Kathryn HERTZBERG 00:28:53
174 31 Molly PINKUS 00:30:58
189 38 Sarah LOCKLEY 00:31:55
225 53 May HAU 00:34:00
Wanstead Flats parkrun
42 39 Ian MACKIE 00:23:24
60 55 Scott MCMILLAN 00:24:22
161 124 Andrew HOWARD 00:30:14
182 42 Jayne BROWNE 00:31:08
235 75 Fiona DAY 00:33:58
243 81 Catherine MCMILLAN 00:35:04
255 91 Sandra HILLER 00:35:39
Maidstone River Park parkrun
48 44 Jonathan WOOLDRIDGE 00:23:32
Hackney Marshes parkrun
256 181 Stuart NORRIS 00:28:11
Chester parkrun
234 164 Arthur DIAZ 00:31:48
Mile End parkrun
20 18 Mark WYATT 00:19:42
193 141 Liam DEMPSEY 00:27:04
Walthamstow parkrun
24 23 Daniel DALLY 00:22:11
89 21 Janet BYWATER 00:29:15
126 82 Steve BYWATER 00:37:05
Southwark parkrun
360 115 Claire EMERY 00:30:08
Witney parkrun
125 88 Bernard MANSELL 00:28:34
Victoria Dock parkrun
41 37 Mark MOIR 00:22:11
Morecambe Prom parkrun
41 37 Paul MARSHALL
Whakatane Gardens parkrun
48 21 Lance FULLER 00:53:49
Springburn parkrun, Glasgow
96 64 Frank BROWNLIE 00:31:18

Colworth Marathon Challenge: Day 1 - Colworth 5m - Friday 28th June 2024

224 finishers.

Serpentine Last Friday of the Month 5km - Friday 28th June 2024

ELR Summer Handicap Race - Volunteers - Wednesday 26th June 2024

ELR Summer Handicap Race - Wanstead Flats 5K - Wednesday 26th June 2024

Loughton AC Midsummer Relay (2.7km approx) - Tuesday 25th June 2024

1st Adult Mixed Team - 52.42

Dartford Bridge Triathlon - Standard Distance - Sunday 23rd June 2024

3.23.23 = (35.04 swim,4.51, 1.32.03 bike,2.15, 10k run 1.09.01 )

Trent Park Triffic Trail 10km - Sunday 23rd June 2024

Run Through Velopark 10km - Saturday 22nd June 2024

Run Through Velopark Half Marathon - Saturday 22nd June 2024

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 22nd June 2024

Roundshaw Downs parkrun
71 56 Martin QUINLAN 00:29:48
Roding Valley parkrun
21 19 Jimmy DALE 00:22:58
31 29 Calvin BOBIN 00:23:49
64 52 Tim AYLETT 00:28:59
83 20 Caroline MOORE 00:31:43
Valentines parkrun
52 47 Jason LEVY 00:24:23
75 12 Cindy KOON 00:25:48
136 27 Katrina BETTERIDGE 00:28:47
138 28 Mary O'BRIEN 00:28:48
159 36 Naimah RIAZ 00:30:19
178 124 Mark DURRANT 00:31:09
196 50 Sarah LOCKLEY 00:31:52
226 67 May HAU 00:33:17
Wanstead Flats parkrun
17 16 Mark WYATT 00:19:58
37 33 Alex PICKERING 00:21:30
68 56 Scott MCMILLAN 00:24:55
85 15 Rachel BAILEY 00:26:04
113 25 Kate BRETT 00:27:12
160 110 Andrew HOWARD 00:30:05
200 58 Kathryn HERTZBERG 00:31:58
Gunpowder parkrun
16 16 Andrew BAXTER 00:20:42
44 41 Jonathan WOOLDRIDGE 00:24:17
Mile End parkrun
17 16 John BOOTH 00:19:57
Walthamstow parkrun
78 12 Janet BYWATER 00:28:01
152 95 Steve BYWATER 00:36:03
Kesgrave parkrun
30 26 Steve SWAN 00:21:37
Sunny Hill parkrun
11 11 Thomas GRIMES 00:21:47
Felixstowe parkrun
148 33 Katherine HARRIS 00:27:50

The John Clarke Memorial Fell Race (Orion) - Friday 21st June 2024

177 finishers

Springfield Striders Friday Night Five - Friday 21st June 2024

237 finishers.

Elvis 3: East End Road Runners 5km, Olympic Park - Tuesday 18th June 2024

race report- Elvis Race #3- Olympic Park 5km by Imran Mustak
Well done to the 64 East London Runners who took part in the third race of the Elvis series at the Olympic Park. East End Road Runners always seem to find a way to bring out the sunshine. With the magic PB glitter dust being passed around, East London Runners got ready to unleash everything we had.
The turnout and energy in the camp, both before and after the race, was something the captains had not felt or seen before. Some remarkable stories on the night included a "sub 19 again for the first time since 2018. Fastest 5km since 2016," "Third fastest 5k, PB for an official 5k race," "buzzing with that, fastest 5k in almost 2 years," "2-second course PB and my fastest in 3 years," "fastest 5k this year," and "improved previous time by 32 seconds." I am sure many more personal goals were achieved.
We had a number of debuts to the Elvis racing scene with Emily Handley-Cole, Matilda Blackwell, and Emma Corbett. We also had a number of legends returning. It is always wonderful to have you in the team.

The men's team was led by the returning Joshua Rees Davies, closely followed by Ryan Friel and
John Henry, all three finishing in the top 8 positions. Daniel O'Donoghue, Joseph Babatunde Osakue, and Robert Spread completed the scoring. The team finished an awesome 3rd on the night, ahead of Ilford AC, to remain 2nd overall in the series.
Emma Corbett came in first for the women's team with a PB, followed by Betty Bohane, Cindy Koon, Becky Evans, Kasia Stachowiak, and Katy Betteridge. We finished 4th on the night, and the women's team move to second place in the overall standings.
ELR also managed to secure a few prizes on the night with Joshua winning the prize for 3rd male. Ian Mackie won1st V70 and captain Cindy secured 1st V50.
We also had some notable PBs and course records for Shahib Ali, Eren Ozkan, Darminder Bhamra, Cindy Koon, Imran Mustak, and Jolene Robinson. Amazing work everyone.
A big thank you from the captains for the great turnout and for the brilliant atmosphere everyone helped to create. We are not just a running club but also an amazing team. With that also a big thanks to the volunteers who helped on the night from baking cakes to taking pictures and handing out race numbers. This is why ELR rocks.
The next race in the Elvis series takes place on 10th July at Hainault Forest. It is a 5m course in the beautiful forest. We tend to do quite well in this race, this is only possible with club member signing up to race. To sign up, please click:

https://www.entrycentral.com/NewmanHilly5

European Duathlon Championships, Coimbra, Portugal - Sunday 16th June 2024

Distances = 10k run, t1, 40k bike, t2, 5k run =
Ava = 41.43, 1.31, 1.16.07, 1.34, 22.20 = 2.23.42
Danny = 39.21, 1.34, 1.16.35, 1.26, 21.28 = 2.20.49

British Heart Foundation London to Brighton Bike Ride - Sunday 16th June 2024

also Marco Cara 5.54.04.

High Easter / Essex 10km - Sunday 16th June 2024

368 finishers.

Finsbury Park Half Marathon - Sunday 16th June 2024

285 finishers.

Race To The King 50km Coastal - Saturday 15th June 2024

'Race to the King' 50Km Ultra - (South Downs)by Mark Durrant.
What do you do a few weeks after running the London Marathon, you go and enter a 50k Ultra! I wasn't 100% physically prepared due to earlier illness, but being a Gooner (Arsenal football fan) I knew that we are made of stronger things (like titanium) unlike our rivals Tottenham (cotton wool). That's my opinion, but I know many of you wont agree with me. My race started at 06:30 so I spent the night in a local B&B in Emsworth as to arrive on time.
The race started in slightly rainy conditions and it was extremely windy. It was only after 30mins into it that I began to ask myself 'what am I doing and how I'm I going to get to the end' unless I call International Rescue for assistance (only older folks who watched Thunderbirds many years ago will know what I'm talking about). Their are better things to do on a Saturday morning (like Parkrun or going for a swim). This inclement weather continued for approx 3 hrs and I was so glad to get to the first Pit Stop after 10k. To my amazement it was exceptionally well stocked with so much refreshments that you you almost had to undo your running vest to make room. You were a bit wet but you continued along with everyone else following the well marked signs and turns at each km, running down hills and walking up others.
Talking about my running vest and equipment, I would like to say a special Thank You to 'Harrier' (https://harrierrunfree.co.uk/
) for sponsoring me with my running equipment. They are a British based company and they provide exceptional high quality trail running clothing and accessories at competitive prices. Last year I ran a ultra and a unleashed dog ran in front of me causing me to fall over, bruising my elbow at 24km (see pic enclosed - sorry if its scary, but its a hazard of running). Fortunately, the delightful Paula Bedford came to the rescue midway with the first aid team and patched me up, and I was off again. So I made it my aim to ensure that this would not happen again, so I was not going for speed, but more for safety and just training to get to the end in one piece. Some of the ground was very undulating in places and the paths were a bit muddy under the trees. Occasionally you had to run in single file, allowing quicker runners to overtake you (but you caught them up further on) but the sun soon came back out and you were back to your normal self. Their was lots of talking to others on route and it was a great friendly atmosphere. I had a bit of cramp at around 46km but mentally I knew that I was going to get to the end (even if I just walked the remaining distance). When I got to the end I had a big smile on my face as I had just completed another race and was another year older. In the finishing tent the organisers laid on a hot meal for all competitors.
Many thanks for reading and getting to the end of this report and staying awake, as a special prize if you go and order anything from Harrier please do use code 'HARRIER20' to receive a 20% disfcount of your first order. Now I'm thirsty and I need to go and find a shop that still sells large 1.5l bottles of Tizer (for the few of you who know what it is) - Stay Blessed!

Giants Head Marathon - Saturday 15th June 2024

406 finishers.

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 15th June 2024

Hackney Marshes parkrun
45 38 Redmond SHANNON 00:21:28
179 39 Sarah BURNS 00:26:36
291 99 Maya GOODWIN 00:31:47
Roding Valley parkrun
55 8 Sandra PRESTON 00:26:18
69 16 Caroline FRITH 00:27:11
88 63 Jimmy DALE 00:29:09
110 35 Caroline MOORE 00:33:26
Valentines parkrun
27 24 Michael BAMFORD 00:22:46
30 27 Imran MUSTAK 00:23:07
53 48 Michael WILSON 00:24:42
81 71 George GEORGIOU 00:26:27
96 12 Kathryn HERTZBERG 00:27:29
117 21 Naimah RIAZ 00:28:55
189 50 May HAU 00:33:34
Wanstead Flats parkrun
76 14 Rachel BAILEY 00:26:05
92 17 Suzanne TAYLOR 00:26:45
128 94 Andrew HOWARD 00:28:42
148 102 Scott MCMILLAN 00:29:54
160 47 Andrea WALLER 00:30:34
178 53 Fiona DAY 00:32:05
201 67 Sandra HILLER 00:34:29
204 70 Vivienne EKA 00:34:51
Raphael parkrun
25 24 Amit MARKS 00:21:11
Mile End parkrun
15 13 Mark WYATT 00:19:26
262 176 Liam DEMPSEY 00:29:34
Beckton parkrun
37 12 Diana REXHEPAJ 00:28:34
Harrow Lodge parkrun
25 23 Clive STEPHENSON 00:24:08
Walthamstow parkrun
165 97 Steve BYWATER 00:39:05
Delamere parkrun
390 261 Arthur DIAZ 00:30:37
Springburn parkrun, Glasgow
90 58 Frank BROWNLIE 00:31:52
Witney parkrun
139 92 Bernard MANSELL 00:30:15
Felixstowe parkrun
187 49 Katherine HARRIS 00:30:16
Harleston Magpies parkrun
72 38 Don BENNETT 00:40:48
Charlton parkrun
48 44 Matthew POWELL 00:22:55
Whakatane Gardens parkrun
23 12 Ciarán CANAVAN 00:49:05
Bury St Edmunds parkrun
109 83 Derek WRIGHT 00:27:20
Kesgrave parkrun
17 16 Steve SWAN 00:21:33
Porch Field parkrun
26 20 Viktor F SZABADI 00:27:43

Pitsea Crown To Crown 5km - Wednesday 12th June 2024

119 finishers.

Run Through Victoria Park half marathon - Sunday 9th June 2024

Valley of the Owls Half Marathon - Sunday 9th June 2024

124 finishers.

Becky: Pretty route on small country roads, across fields & through woodland- fairly hilly…

Southend Half Marathon - Sunday 9th June 2024

2202 finishers.

Run Through Victoria Park 10km - Sunday 9th June 2024

Run Through Hyde Park 5km - Saturday 8th June 2024

179 finishers.

Run Through Hyde Park 10km - Saturday 8th June 2024

310 finishers.

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 8th June 2024

Hackney Marshes parkrun
55 47 Redmond SHANNON 00:20:39
Roding Valley parkrun
25 23 Mounir DAHBI 00:23:39
68 51 Jimmy DALE 00:27:22
107 33 Caroline MOORE 00:32:57
Wanstead Flats parkrun
17 16 Amit MARKS 00:21:12
43 36 Michael BAMFORD 00:23:13
50 43 Ian MACKIE 00:23:27
70 11 Kasia STACHOWIAK 00:24:30
95 77 Scott MCMILLAN 00:25:41
103 84 Finbar SHEAHAN 00:26:15
123 24 Kate BRETT 00:27:19
146 110 Andrew HOWARD 00:28:18
206 62 Jayne BROWNE 00:31:11
245 86 Sandra HILLER 00:34:26
260 97 Vivienne EKA 00:35:51
Walthamstow parkrun
61 58 Samir YOUNSI 00:25:20
Roundshaw Downs parkrun
82 72 Martin QUINLAN 00:29:03
Valentines parkrun
19 17 Simon NASH 00:21:56
53 45 Michael WILSON 00:24:32
76 12 Katrina BETTERIDGE 00:25:50
112 82 John O'BRIEN 00:27:38
121 26 Ann DUNNE 00:28:06
137 28 Naimah RIAZ 00:29:12
159 110 Mark DURRANT 00:30:25
229 64 May HAU 00:34:11
Harlow parkrun
168 47 Veronica CARRASCO 00:32:29
Witney parkrun
119 89 Bernard MANSELL 00:28:55
Clapham Common parkrun
806 261 Fiona DAY 00:32:36
Victoria Dock parkrun
37 33 Mark MOIR 00:21:43
Drumpellier Country parkrun
169 109 Frank BROWNLIE 00:31:42

Elvis 2: Havering 90 Joggers 5m, Raphael Park - Tuesday 4th June 2024

Team results: Elvis 2
Men: ELR 2nd - overall 2nd
Ladies: ELR 2nd - overall 1st

Race report- Elvis #2 by Imran Mustak
A huge congratulations to the 51 East London Runners who participated in the second race of the Elvis series at Raphael Park. It was fantastic to see Bilkis Acha, Daniel Dally and Andrew Mclean make their Elvis debuts. Once you start, it's hard to stay away. It was also wonderful to have some Elvis legends return.
The rain held off, allowing East London Runners to shine with some notable personal bests and course records for Shahib Ali, Maya Goodwin, Cindy Koon, Imran Mustak, Eren Ozkan, and Paul Watkins.
An East London Runner dominated the race, with a big congratulations to Ryan Friel, who won with a time of 27.12. He had to wait over a minute for the next runner to cross the line. Absolutely amazing.
The full provisional race results can be found at https://elvisraces.club/.../Elvis-Standings-after-Elvis.... The ELR women's team seems to have maintained first place in the overall standings by finishing second in Elvis Race 2. An awesome performance led by club captain Cindy Koon, closely followed by Becky Evans, Kasia Stachowiak, Katy Betteridge, Sandra Preston, and Mary Connolly.
The men's team finished second ahead of seven other teams, led by Ryan, followed by strong returns to the Elvis series by Daniel O'Donoghue and Robert Spread. Close behind were Alex Pickering, Joseph Babatunde Osakue, and James Nichols, who all scored for the team again.
The Eton Manor team is extremely strong this year and appears to be putting every ounce of resource into winning this series. The next race is crucial in terms of numbers and turnout. For the first time in the series, Eton Manor has more runners registered than ELR.
Are we a little worried? (crackly call coming in on our shokz's)
Captains, "can you hear me? On your left."
East London Runners, emerging.
East London Runners, "Assemble."
The next race in the Elvis series takes place on 18th June at the Olympic Park. It is a fast 5k course with the potential for a personal best. It is mainly on paved paths. To sign up, please click https://events.kronosports.uk/event/289?

Maldon Mud Race 2024, Promenade Park - Sunday 2nd June 2024

Forest Five Series - Race 1 - Saturday 1st June 2024

120 finishers.

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 1st June 2024

Hackney Marshes parkrun
402 135 Vivienne EKA 00:35:16
Roding Valley parkrun 106
73 55 Tim AYLETT 00:29:15
92 64 James NICHOLS 00:31:38
100 32 Caroline MOORE 00:32:39
Valentines parkrun
21 19 Alex PICKERING 00:21:01
48 42 Imran MUSTAK 00:23:12
78 66 Jason LEVY 00:24:40
80 68 Michael WILSON 00:24:43
117 14 Bilkis ACHHA 00:26:10
167 24 Katrina BETTERIDGE 28:38
188 29 Naimah RIAZ 00:29:07
207 37 Mary O'BRIEN 00:29:52
239 48 Sarah LOCKLEY 00:31:48
275 61 May HAU 00:33:37
309 82 Joanna QIU 00:35:24
354 107 Elizabeth O'DONNELL 38:25
Wanstead Flats parkrun
26 25 Jonny SHAW 00:21:59
76 64 Scott MCMILLAN 00:26:11
88 12 Suzanne TAYLOR 00:26:47
198 71 Sandra HILLER 00:34:03
Raphael parkrun
36 27 Mark MOIR 00:21:53
Walthamstow parkrun
38 34 Andrew BAXTER 00:24:00
96 83 Peter HATLEY 00:28:36
116 18 Janet BYWATER 00:30:52
151 106 Steve BYWATER 00:39:57
Clumber Park parkrun
122 98 Andrew HOWARD 00:26:59
Osterley parkrun
104 14 Joanna NEVILLE 00:26:29
Springburn parkrun, Glasgow
92 67 Frank BROWNLIE 00:33:41
Great Notley parkrun
55 48 David TAYLOR 00:26:43
parkrun Kołobrzeg
38 29 Jakub CZECZÓTKA 00:26:39
Buncrana parkrun
21 18 Liam DEMPSEY 00:27:37
Witney parkrun
166 117 Bernard MANSELL 00:29:00 52.53%
Felixstowe parkrun
49 47 Steve SWAN 00:22:03
Porch Field parkrun
20 14 Viktor F SZABADI 00:26:28
Harleston Magpies parkrun 9
58 38 Don BENNETT 00:40:54
Whakatane Gardens parkrun
14 13 Ciarán CANAVAN 00:26:29

Serpentine Last Friday of the Month 5km - Friday 31st May 2024

217 finishers

Woodford Green Graded Meet - 800m - Tuesday 28th May 2024

Hatfield Broad Oak 10km - Monday 27th May 2024

Stratford Speed GP Meet, Olympic Park track - Sunday 26th May 2024

Ride 100 Essex - Sunday 26th May 2024

Edinburgh Marathon - Sunday 26th May 2024

Mull of Kintyre Half Marathon - Sunday 26th May 2024

160 finishers.

Victoria comments:
Wonderful day at the #mok #mullofkintyre Half Marathon.
My first time running on a beach.
Great local support, wonderful weather & a super goody-bag & post-race treats.
I met some lovely runners.

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 25th May 2024

Roundshaw Downs parkrun
89 76 Martin QUINLAN 00:29:47
Roding Valley parkrun
61 51 Jimmy DALE 00:28:16
91 28 Caroline MOORE 00:32:51
Valentines parkrun
30 27 Calvin BOBIN 00:21:42
55 46 Imran MUSTAK 00:22:53
60 49 Mounir DAHBI 00:22:59
82 68 Ryan FRIEL 00:23:48
111 15 Katrina BETTERIDGE 00:25:00
119 98 Darminder BHAMRA 00:25:22
129 20 Bilkis ACHHA 00:25:42
136 110 John O'BRIEN 00:25:59
182 31 Tina BENNETT 00:27:50
183 32 Ann DUNNE 00:27:58
206 40 Naimah RIAZ 00:29:07
265 59 Sarah LOCKLEY 00:32:15
296 71 May HAU 00:33:48
Wanstead Flats parkrun
20 19 Redmond SHANNON 00:21:19
31 29 Jonny SHAW 00:22:14
103 17 Catherine PERRY 00:27:15
111 86 Paul WATKINS 00:27:34
129 97 Kieran BROWN 00:28:33
131 98 Scott MCMILLAN 00:28:51
181 126 Andrew HOWARD 00:31:26
208 69 Fiona DAY 00:32:44
216 74 Claire EMERY 00:33:10
256 100 Vivienne EKA 00:36:27
Raphael parkrun
24 23 Amit MARKS 00:20:36
Mile End parkrun
19 17 Mark WYATT 00:19:26
236 183 Liam DEMPSEY 00:27:05
Beckton parkrun
55 12 Diana REXHEPAJ 00:28:24
Chelmsford Central parkrun
631 176 Natasha HOWARD 00:31:26
Walthamstow parkrun
40 35 Nick HOULT 00:24:00
91 15 Janet BYWATER 00:28:09
Springburn parkrun, Glasgow
101 62 Frank BROWNLIE 00:30:51
Kesgrave parkrun
25 21 Steve SWAN 00:21:16
Harleston Magpies parkrun
57 33 Don BENNETT 41:02
Lordship Recreation Ground parkrun
19 17 Alex PICKERING 00:19:40
Highbury Fields parkrun
156 125 Richard GUEST 00:24:33
Porch Field parkrun
23 17 Viktor F SZABADI 27:12

Elvis 1: Dagenham 88 Runners 5, Eastbrooke End Country Park - Wednesday 22nd May 2024

Team Results: after 1 event
Men 2nd with 91 pts
Women 1st with 56 pts.

Imran Mustak: Race report Elvis #1
A massive well done to the 63 East London Runners who took part in the season opening 5mile Elvis race. A big thank you also to the supporters who turned up to help and cheer us on. I hope everyone is very proud of themselves to have completed the race.
It was the "first race of the summer" and some runners were left a little "confused" by the direction they were sent. The weather conditions ensured the course was "slippery", "eventful", provided "ankle deep water", "torrential rain", "a river by the end", perhaps making it the "wettest Elvis race ever!". It left some people feeling "traumatised" whilst others found it "wet, wet, wet but enjoyable" and "soaked to the bone but fun nonetheless!". It is "never a dull race in Dagenham".
We now have the provisional race results and the ELR women's team look to have finished in first place ahead of Eton Manor. The scorers for the team are Ava Lee, Anne Spain, Cindy Koon, Becky Evans, Kasia Stachowiak and Catherine Perry. The men's team, seem to have finished second behind Eton Manor with the scorers being Ryan Friel, Nacho Aguirre Rodríguez, James Nichols, Dylan Andrew Campbell, Joseph Babatunde Osakue and Alex Pickering. A great start by East London Runners in the Elvis series.
East London Runners also scooped up some individual prizes on the night with trophies awarded to Ava Lee and Ryan Friel for their amazing third places, Cindy Koon for a heroic 1st V50 and Jose Rodriguez taking a spectacular 1st V40. Despite the weather and many of the runners not knowing what shoes to wear, I can see some brilliant times all across the field with several PBs and course PBs. Quite amazing running, well done.
We also had several debuts at the race with Amy Gibbins, Anne Spain, Jolanta Wysocki, Jolene Robinson, Maeve Jennings, Mary Harmey and Matt Martin. Hope you enjoyed your first race. It may have felt like early practice for the XC season coming later in the year. Sorry if I have missed anyone.
The next race in the Elvis series takes place on 4th June at Raphael Park. It is mainly on tarmac so I think we can be sure on what shoes to wear.

Loughton AC's Unto the Fields XC - Tuesday 21 May 2024

Woodbridge 10km - Sunday 19th May 2024

Wizz Air Hackney Half Marathon - Sunday 19th May 2024

Stortford 10 & 5 miles - Sunday 19th May 2024

Run Through Wimbledon Common Half Marathon - Sunday 19th May 2024

A J Bell Great Bristol Run (Half Marathon) - Sunday 19th May 2024

Hackney 5K - Saturday 18th May 2024

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 18th May 2024

This weeks ELR results can be found here:

https://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/?clubNum=1544&eventdate=2024-05-18

Harrow parkrun
164 126 Richard GUEST 00:30:22
Roding Valley parkrun
61 19 Victoria CHARLESWORTH 00:29:34
70 26 Kathy MORRISSEY 00:30:43
93 38 Caroline MOORE 00:33:29
Valentines parkrun
14 13 Med DAHBI 00:21:29
38 34 Michael WILSON 00:23:24
44 40 John HEALY 00:23:44
46 41 Peter HATLEY 00:23:51
73 7 Katrina BETTERIDGE 25:32
83 9 Bilkis ACHHA 26:13
103 12 Suzanne TAYLOR 00:26:49
149 24 Naimah RIAZ 00:29:33
163 124 Ryan FRIEL 00:30:07
194 43 Sarah LOCKLEY 00:32:08
218 53 May HAU 00:33:46
Wanstead Flats parkrun
19 19 Alex PICKERING 00:21:14
33 32 Ian MACKIE 00:22:07
82 14 Emma CORBETT 00:25:26
93 77 Scott MCMILLAN 00:26:01
146 106 Kieran BROWN 00:28:09
174 126 Andrew HOWARD 00:29:34
219 71 Fiona DAY 00:31:47
Mile End parkrun 95
62 54 Mark MOIR 00:22:13
Walthamstow parkrun
12 12 Andrew BAXTER 00:21:04
25 23 Michael BAMFORD 00:22:59
37 32 Nick HOULT 00:23:29
141 85 Steve BYWATER 00:40:05
154 59 Janet BYWATER 00:56:24
Lowestoft parkrun
198 154 Stuart BARTON 00:27:23
Porch Field parkrun
18 15 Viktor F SZABADI 00:26:19
Whakatane Gardens parkrun
14 13 Lance FULLER 00:27:35
Lordship Recreation Ground parkrun 28
15 14 James NICHOLS 00:19:07

Ing Night Half Marathon, Luxembourg - Sunday 12th May 2024

National 100km Championships, Spain - Sunday 12th May 2024

Spanish National Championships 100km.
11th overall position. And a 3rd M40
Not the race I was hoping for but proud for being able to hold on and gradually turn it around and finish strong again. I'm still a bit unsure of all the things that went wrong and I'm trying to connect the dots to learn from it.
The process to register with Spanish athletics and then to the National 100km Championships was not straight forward. Overall took around 2 months of emails and calls(too long and irrelevant story for here) : Hardly had any sleep for the previous 2 days( trip plus my own insomnia pre race) , huge clouds of pollen everywhere, my trainers cut my ankle and started dramatically bleeding(nothing serious, just looked bad).. but I think the main reasons where the 28C, I started too fast and the course was super tough with continuous ups and downs. My muscles started hurting way too soon (even for that pace), possibly acidosis. Managed to keep still a strong pace for a long time (trying to slow down but not being very good at it being carried away by the rest of Runners around me) this lead to stomach pain and nausea for 40/50km which didn't allow me to take nutrition as planned. A DNF wasn't an option on my first national champs so I slowed down and joined Nico & Isacc for a few laps until miraculously I resurrected and gradually increased my pace again from km 70.
I'm, probably, focusing too much in which I did wrong but the truth is that weather and course affected negatively to lots of runners, not just me. But I can't stop myself for trying to see where I failed to learn for future races.
Happy to have by first National medal in my category and a decent overall position despite all the drama.
Main goal is still on the 12h, race to be booked soon!!!.

Essex Track & Field Championship, Chelmsford - 1500m (Vets) Final - Sunday 12th May 2024

3rd place - Patrick Brown 4.31.03 (former elr)

Halstead & Essex Marathon - Sunday 12th May 2024

Rahana Islam: HELLstead Marathon
Wow. I cannot remember a marathon that broke me like this one ever and I've ran quite a few.
I'm actually so glad I didn't convince any one else to run it.
I would have been stoned for sure. It was utterly brutal I was beyond traumatised.
The mind games started WAY too soon into the run. During the exposed bits I felt like my skin would start to peel off under the glare of the sun.
Things I never normally do in a marathon was happening here.
Stopping almost at all the water stations
Taking orange slices where I could
Had not one but two ice-pops from this sweet boy who sat out there the whole time handing them out. What a kid!!!!
Stopped to let kids soak me with their water guns (another absolute no no by me due to the chafing it causes - but today I literally didn't care!!!)
Stopped for sympathetic hugs from runners I knew helping out at water stations even though I was so disgusting but I wanted the hugs.
The hills were bigger than ever and there were extra ones for sure. How blumin dare they!!!
A lady from the club who organised this event point blank denied this and claimed it was the same course they've always used (whatever)
I have no idea how I frickin finished.
I wanted to cry
Went to watch my superstar running buddy get her award (first lady ) as we chat away my name gets called out.
Earned myself an Essex County medal coming in 3rd in age category.
(Ok the proper fast ladies were clearly away but I don't care one bit)
Suddenly I decided that it wasn't so bad after all, that took the sting out of it a bit.
Out of the 4 I've ran in the last 6 weeks this one is definitely the one I'm most proud of. Today's conditions made Beachy Head Marathon feel like a doddle in comparison.

Helsinki City Marathon - Sunday 11th May 2024

2325 FINISHERS

Ipswich Waterfront 5km - Saturday 11th May 2024

420 finishers

Ironman 70.3, Mallorca - Saturday 11th May 2024

Swim 36.44, t1 6.02, bike 3.06.16, t2 4.37, run 1.48.41

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 11th May 2024

Bushy parkrun
45 40 Shahib ALI 00:19:12 - 70.05%
Roundshaw Downs parkrun
78 63 Martin QUINLAN 00:29:33
Roding Valley parkrun
39 34 Mounir DAHBI 00:23:47
79 60 Jimmy DALE 00:27:39
92 22 Victoria CHARLESWORTH 00:28:33
129 42 Caroline MOORE 00:32:06
Valentines parkrun
19 18 Ashley FARIA 00:21:32
46 40 Darminder BHAMRA 00:23:19
63 54 John HEALY 00:24:05
72 61 Michael WILSON 00:24:34
87 71 John O'BRIEN 00:25:38
91 14 Sandra PRESTON 00:25:46
93 74 Matthew POWELL 00:25:48
105 19 Bilkis ACHHA 00:26:14
123 27 Bernadett KALMAR 00:27:02
124 91 George GEORGIOU 00:27:03
145 34 Catriona HOULT 00:28:07
153 38 Mary O'BRIEN 00:28:33
173 47 Naimah RIAZ 00:29:24
248 73 Natasha HOWARD 00:33:00
341 125 Elizabeth O'DONNELL 00:39:49
Wanstead Flats parkrun
17 17 Amit MARKS 00:21:01
21 21 Andrew BAXTER 00:21:13 - 72.43%
29 29 Ian MACKIE 00:21:39
37 36 Finbar SHEAHAN 00:22:27
57 51 Scott MCMILLAN 00:24:30
115 20 Suzanne TAYLOR 00:27:44
120 21 Kate BRETT 00:27:52
134 103 Kieran BROWN 00:28:24
249 87 Catherine MCMILLAN 00:34:15
290 117 Vivienne EKA 00:39:59
294 164 Andrew HOWARD 00:44:56
Walthamstow parkrun
25 25 Michael BAMFORD 00:22:42
36 33 Nick HOULT 00:23:58
50 47 Samir YOUNSI 00:25:09
100 16 Janet BYWATER 00:29:06
152 50 Anne-Marie KENNEDY 00:35:17
Springburn parkrun, Glasgow
141 91 Frank BROWNLIE 00:31:22
Great Notley parkrun
51 40 David TAYLOR 00:26:10
Clapham Common parkrun
934 365 Fiona DAY 00:35:04
Felixstowe parkrun
287 104 Katherine HARRIS 00:36:46
Porch Field parkrun
18 14 Viktor F SZABADI 00:27:33
Whakatane Gardens parkrun
71 24 Lance FULLER 01:01:02

Crown to Crown 5km - Wednesday 8th May 2024

Bannister Miles H Race, Iffley Road - Monday 6th May 2024

Copenhagen Marathon - Sunday 5th May 2024

halfway in 1.58.01.

Prague Marathon - Sunday 5th May 2024

Victoria Park 10km - Sunday 5th May 2024

599 finishers

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 4th May 2024

Roding Valley parkrun
19 18 Jimmy DALE 00:22:46
49 40 Tim AYLETT 00:28:05
75 21 Caroline MOORE 00:33:28
Silksworth parkrun
14 14 Mark MOIR 00:22:11
Hackney Marshes parkrun
50 44 Redmond SHANNON 00:21:12
Valentines parkrun
18 17 Jacob STEVENS 00:21:30
82 17 Sandra PRESTON 00:25:04
113 25 Bilkis ACHHA 00:26:46
122 86 George GEORGIOU 00:27:14
126 88 Andrew HOWARD 00:27:39
150 41 Mary Frances O'BRIEN 00:28:44
182 50 Naimah RIAZ 00:30:42
235 71 May HAU 00:33:39
325 124 Elizabeth O'DONNELL 00:43:12
Wanstead Flats parkrun
19 19 Ian MACKIE 00:22:06
26 26 Finbar SHEAHAN 00:23:02
71 56 Scott MCMILLAN 00:26:16
106 26 Suzanne TAYLOR 00:28:50
197 74 Kathryn HERTZBERG 00:36:38
205 80 Vivienne EKA 00:37:48
Chester parkrun
212 149 Arthur DIAZ 00:30:21
Mile End parkrun
309 198 David WYATT 00:30:33
Hilly Fields parkrun
190 124 Martin QUINLAN 00:30:35
Harrow Lodge parkrun
23 22 Clive STEPHENSON 00:24:53
Walthamstow parkrun
15 15 James NICHOLS 00:21:12
62 59 Alex PICKERING 00:23:58
68 64 Nick HOULT 00:24:33
86 80 Peter HATLEY 00:25:52
133 114 Kieran BROWN 00:28:30
148 28 Janet BYWATER 00:28:58
162 35 Catriona HOULT 00:29:30
174 133 Mark DURRANT 00:30:27
192 139 Richard GUEST 00:31:00
210 64 Fiona DAY 00:33:17
240 153 Steve BYWATER 00:40:40
Fountains Abbey parkrun
77 66 John HENRY 00:23:21
Felixstowe parkrun
130 23 Katherine HARRIS 00:25:28
Morecambe Prom parkrun
142 122 Paul MARSHALL 00:25:55
St Mary’s parkrun
75 14 Catherine PERRY 00:26:58
Soham Village College parkrun
49 40 Alex JAMESON 00:27:21
Harleston Magpies parkrun
68 37 Don BENNETT 00:45:49

Madrid Marathon - Sunday 28th April 2024

9123 finishers halfway in 1.45.06

Boston UK Marathon - Sunday 28th April 2024

Chiltern Ridge Ultra Trail 50K - Saturday 27th April 2024

239 finishers.

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 27th April 2024

Roundshaw Downs parkrun 8
65 56 Martin QUINLAN 00:28:17
Hackney Marshes parkrun
44 39 Alex PICKERING 00:19:59
Roding Valley parkrun
59 11 Victoria CHARLESWORTH 00:28:37
69 15 Caroline FRITH 00:30:07
87 28 Caroline MOORE 00:33:41
Valentines parkrun
59 54 Michael WILSON 00:24:32
79 70 George GEORGIOU 00:25:46
103 16 Bilkis ACHHA 00:27:03
118 22 Suzanne TAYLOR 00:27:56
140 38 Naimah RIAZ 00:29:19
157 47 Katrina BETTERIDGE 00:30:16
160 110 Ryan FRIEL 00:30:29
199 63 May HAU 00:33:38
Wanstead Flats parkrun
24 20 Ian MACKIE 00:22:07
71 55 Scott MCMILLAN 00:25:28
126 87 Andrew HOWARD 00:28:19
150 42 Kasia STACHOWIAK 00:30:11
153 99 Kieran BROWN 00:30:22
198 66 Fiona DAY 00:33:10
Billericay parkrun
26 25 James NICHOLS 00:22:35
Mile End parkrun
72 67 Mark MOIR 00:21:35
268 191 Liam DEMPSEY 00:27:50
Crane Park parkrun
143 51 Tasnia CHOUDHURY 00:34:03
144 52 Samia CHOUDHURY 00:34:23
Harrow Lodge parkrun
31 30 Clive STEPHENSON 00:24:42
Walthamstow parkrun
14 14 Andrew BAXTER 00:22:24
37 34 Nick HOULT 00:24:36
82 14 Janet BYWATER 00:28:28
87 17 Catriona HOULT 00:28:49
Kesgrave parkrun
18 16 Steve SWAN 00:21:45
Rutland Water parkrun
235 123 Marc AKERS 00:36:52
Castle Park parkrun
78 72 James CREED 00:24:38
Victoria Dock parkrun
115 25 Katherine HARRIS 00:26:37
Morecambe Prom parkrun
36 33 Paul MARSHALL 00:20:56

Serpentine Last Friday of the month 5k - Friday 26th April 2024

TCS London Marathon 2024 (Virtual) - Sunday 21st April 2024

TCS London Marathon 2024 - Sunday 21st April 2024

Karan Gadhia: London Marathon 3:24:23 pb
Getting to the start line of the London Marathon has been a marathon itself. The years of ballot rejections. Getting injured. Months of rehab and deferral to 2024. The comeback. Injury again. More rehab. Comeback 2.0.
Training had been going well over winter before picking up tendonitis in December which ruled me out of running for nine weeks. During that time I lost of a lot of fitness and doubts crept in if I'd make it to the start line, but thankfully I managed to fit in a few weeks of training before tapering. If it was any other race, I'd have probably cancelled as I felt mentally and physically unprepared but I knew I had to make the most of my opportunity to run the London Marathon.
I thought I was ambitious planning to run 8 min miling for 3:30 to match my pace at the Essex 20 which was by far the best run of my short training block but as soon as I crossed the start line that plan went out of the window. Full of adrenaline I was doing low 7 mins per mile which I hadn't been able to run since before the break. However, it didn't feel too fast with my breathing and my body kept feeling comfortable despite my brain panicking that I'd set off too quick.
Passing all the supporters playing music from their flats, high fiving the locals, I eventually relaxed after passing the amazing noise at Cutty Sark and seeing the big New Balance adverts with the slogan 'Run Your Way'. I thought to myself maybe I have set off too quick, maybe I haven't trained enough, but either way I'm going to run this London Marathon MY way.
At this point I settle into 7:30 pace, I try to focus on my form and keeping the blue line in sight even if I can't follow it exactly. I saw my family at Deptford and Eren passed me around this time which gave me a good boost as I approached the halfway mark.
I cross Tower Bridge looking side to side soaking up the cheers and the views the pavement is PACKED. As we reach mile 13 I see the elites on the other side of the road and I think to myself I just need be able to keeping run until that point and I'll be okay.
The race starts to get tough as we go round Canary Wharf. My legs start to feel heavy but I see a lot of familiar faces in the crowd and Betty passes me encouraging me that the mile 20 station will come soon.
As I pass mile 20 I notice the station has moved down the road but I see Immy giving a big wave and a high five that stings my hand but distracts from the pain in my legs. I'd been looking forward to this moment ever since getting my ballot place in 2022. The cheers from everyone were deafening and the perfect boost for the final six miles.
As I go back down the highway towards the finish I see my parents and my friends one last time after missing them earlier in the race. My legs feel like bricks at this point and my tendonitis is flaring up so I take my first stop to stretch. I end up having to take a couple of stops to stretch in the final six miles but each time but I keep running again immediately after each time despite the pain.
As we go along Embankment past I see Big Ben in the distance it's so far yet so near. I'm in the red zone but I keep pushing and tell myself that a 3:25 is possible.
In the last mile Jimmy passes me and encourages me to keep up with him. I can't but as approach St James Park I try to keep him in my sights for as long as possible. The stretch to the palace feels like it goes on forever but I know the finish is soon.
We turn right and right again to the finish straight with rows of spectators roaring us on. I unleash what's left of my strength try to sprint to the finish line. I cross the line with a 14 min PB I can't believe, I did it, it all went just according to plan and better! I catch Jimmy at the finish and we celebrate our PBs together before I meet my family again.
My first marathon since 2020 but it really was the victory lap for all of the work over the past few years. Such an incredible day that I'll remember for the rest of my life.
Marathons are stupid but if you're ever going to do one then make sure it's the London Marathon.
Thank you to everyone at the club, all of your cheers on the day and support over the years has been invaluable and has helped motivate me to improve and run my best every time I put on the club colours.

Rahana Islam: 3:52:09 Guys I can't believe I missed you all at the water station
I was refusing to blink and slowing down as I got closer to 20 mile mark
Was already counting down the k's till I got there from 25k (and that's a long ole time k watching )
Thought maybe you'd all packed up and gone home by time I got round.
Welldone everyone who ran yesterday wasn't London AMAZING!!!
The night before I wasn't sure I'd make the start line but so glad I did!!!
That's all for now, just looking into what the waiting list is for amputating toes on the NHS, mind you at this rate they'll probably fall off on their own accord soon enough.

Scott McMillan: Fourth consecutive London Marathon, fourth consecutive sub-3 hour and Good For Age time - 2:58:43.
At the same time this was the most painful and yet also the most comfortable one of them all. Every step on my ever-injured left leg hurt right from mile one, but despite that I felt aerobically fit and strong from my training, I just had to keep a steady pace and pray my leg didn’t blow up before the end.
I sometimes (always) wonder why I put myself through this, but the atmosphere and support in London was once again something really special.

Danny Lee: A little London Marathon report from me, slightly late (sorry, been busy learning to walk again)...
Oh man! That didn't quite go to plan. The plan being, start fast but don't go crazy, manage a steady decline with four decreasing target paces, give out a few first pumps at mile 20 and again on Birdcage Walk, dip over the finish line in as close to last year's time as possible, and high five the likes of Scott McMillan just past the finish line, where we'd chat happily about salt tablet strategies.
And to begin with, the plan seemed to be working, but around 10 miles in I started hitting kilometre times I wasn't expecting to hit until much later. By Tower Bridge, my pace was starting to nose dive, by mile 15, my quads were really hurting, already deplete of glycogen. I knew that cramp was in the post, even though by now I was munching my salt tablets like Pacman.
The Isle of Dogs was a blur of pain and dark thoughts. With so much of the race left to go, I started to wargame Plan D in my head: "DNF". Would it be so bad?. I decided there could be nothing more depressing than a DNF at Mudchute DLR. I'd carry on 'til mile 20, where a friendly face would make me a cup of tea, tell me it just wasn't my day and give me a hug.
Any positive vibes from the Canary Wharf crowd just washed right over me, as my pace dipped further. At long last, I reached Poplar, my quads burning, but my pain nearly over. "Would someone at the water station have thought to bring a Nespresso machine?" I wondered. And then I was upon it, and at last some familiar faces... "Go on, Danny!", "Danny Boyaaah!", "Danny Leeeee...!". Wait, where were my looks of sympathy? Why is everyone looking so positive? "Go Daneeee...!" By the end of the little row of tables and a single fist pump at great effort, I'd changed my mind - whatever happened to my time, I would finish this damn race.
From the water station to Tower Bridge, I tried to switch my brain off, but was starting to cramp quite badly. I had to stop three or four times to stretch. Scott - Even Splits - McMillan passed me on Embankment - "Go on Danny Lee!" - and quickly disappeared over the horizon as if I was standing still. "AM I standing still?!".

I had to stop one more time on Birdcage Walk to stretch, but at LONG last, I crossed the line and promptly fell into the arms of two volunteers. They held me up as best they could, waiting for me to collect myself. When that didn't happen, one asked "Would you like to go to the medical tent?". That sounds nice, I thought, picturing some nice beanbags and throws, a gentle massage perhaps with incense and maybe a little whale song.
"I'LL TAKE HIM FROM HERE, GUYS. I'VE GOT HIM." It was Scott, holding me up and relieving the volunteers of their duties. "What have you done to yourself, Danny!?". I burst into tears, sobbing like a teething baby into his shoulder. Not quite the high five moment I'd planned.
I eventually pulled myself together and checked my watch. 3:04. That's really not that bad for a man in his mid-50s, I decided. "That's it, Scott, that was my last marathon". He looked at me and said, "You know, I actually believe you this time".
Thanks SO much Scott, and to everyone at the water station. And well done to everyone who's run marathons the past few weeks. Go ELR!

Mark Durrant: London Marathon 2024 - Report.
Unfortunately I've not covered much mileage in the past 5 wks due to illness. However, my friend applied for the first time in the ballot and he was successful (to the envy of many), so he asked if I could assist him as he's never run a marathon before (did I forget to say he's 62)! Earlier in the year we managed to get to run for 19 miles in about 3hrs (the furthest he's ever run). I had a big breakfast in the morning and was ready for the day. We started the race together and I made it my aim that we would also finish together!
I made sure that consistency in mileage times would be the answer to get us through and only injury (or cramps) would stop us. After a cold start, we went for it making with him making sure he had his dates to eat along the way and I had my gels. Everything went to plan (with a few comfort breaks midway) until about 10 miles when I began to feel my right calf playing up, but I pushed through. At the midway point at Tower Bridge, I was feeling fine with no issues other than seeing a Rhino and what seemed to be a Caterpillar pass me with such ease. It's at this stage that I said to myself "anyhow a Tortoise overtakes me, then I know I'll have to give up running for good". We got to near Canary Wharf and it was a joy seeing my wife and I had a quick photo but we still both ran on, only wishing that the end would come soon. It was windy around there and I didn't enjoy that part. It was great to seen ELR at mile 20 and I wanted to stop a bit longer but he didn't quite understand and kept on going. I just tried to concentrate on my form and he was sticking to me step by step. This is where the race begins as I kept on saying to myself "its now only 2 Parkruns to get the finish line". Once at Blackfriars the crowd kept on cheering and my left hamstring was feeling a bit tight, but I pushed through it. If I hear anybody say to me again "you've got this" or "your looking good Mark", I think I'll scream because, I might look ok but I defiantly didn't feel it! My legs were getting a bit tired and I was running an adrenalin. with 1 mile to go. I was so happy to see Big Ben and then the finish line which could not have come sooner. I got to the end with my friend who said to me, "never again" at which point I just smiled at him and laughed.
I first ran this race 30 yrs ago, so it was a anniversary for me and I'm just still amazed that I've still got the strength, stammer and mindset to still keep on running it. I'd like to say thanks for all the little kids jelly babies that somehow ended up in my tummy along route (they were a blessing) and I'd like to say a special thanks to Hugh Brasher (LM Race Director) in allowing me to enter another ballot to be able to run under a different organisation (BTR) and of course all the ELR Club members. If I'm successful in the ballot for next year, my dream would be to run alongside Sandra Preston from start to finish (even if holding her hand on route because I know she'll love to do it), so she too can experience the LM in its complete fulfilment. I know its only a dream at the moment, but who knows it could be turn into reality (once she enters)!
Many thanks for reading and I hope you all got to the end ok. My friend just could not believe that he would be capable to do such a thing (especially at his age), but now he's proved himself wrong. So with that I'm off for a large glass of Dandelion & Burdock (for those of you who knows what it is).
Stay Blessed.

TCS London Marathon 2024 - Sunday 21st April 2024

Ava Lee: So here goes - London Marathon 2024. A short report!
Sunday was everything I hoped it would be. My legs are now killing me, I'm not sure when i'll be able to pick up my socks off the floor, but it was all worth it. I had a few goals that I kept relatively quiet in the run up, but this time a fast finishing time was not the main objective. I've ran a few London marathons with my eye constantly on the clock, and that wasn't going to happen this year. This was a year to savour the experience and remember how lucky I am to be part of something amazing.
Sure, I still wanted to do myself justice so I set out a decent clip. Starting in the Championship pen with all the race horses means it's near impossible not to start a bit too fast, it's like being pulled along by a wave of speed - imagine a running of the bulls! There was no doubt in my mind that I'd be slowing down later on and when I comfortably passed half way at 1hr34, I was bang on target for the famous Danny Lee uneven split technique. The slow down was in the post and I was almost looking forward to it. I factored the tumbling speed into my game plan of 'have fun' and enjoy the support.
Mile 20 took an eternity to arrive , but when it did the support was fantastic. Thank you ELR! I nearly fell on a speed bump, such was my excitement to see Alexandra Wilkinson!
I smiled so much for 26 miles that my jaws hurt - part joy, part grimace. My thighs were on fire for the last 12 miles, the legs twitching and cramping. I was ticking off landmarks, placards, friends on the route, trying to focus on a couple of miles at a time and not get distracted by thoughts of the finish line, a pint and a Greggs sausage roll. And then eventually the finish line is there - I turn a corner and only 200 metres to go. Hands in the air, I crossed the line feeling very accomplished. 3hrs 17minutes. Not my fastest marathon but not a million miles away either.
Everyone pretends that marathons are fun, but they're not really. They are something more than that, something with a depth and sense of achievement much more than just having fun. They are hard and painful but deeply satisfying. I used to run marathons to see how fast I could go - now I run because I am amazed at what is still possible after cancer. And I do still like running a bit fast too… sometimes.
So here goes - London Marathon 2024. A short report!
Sunday was everything I hoped it would be. My legs are now killing me, I'm not sure when i'll be able to pick up my socks off the floor, but it was all worth it. I had a few goals that I kept relatively quiet in the run up, but this time a fast finishing time was not the main objective. I've ran a few London marathons with my eye constantly on the clock, and that wasn't going to happen this year. This was a year to savour the experience and remember how lucky I am to be part of something amazing.
Sure, I still wanted to do myself justice so I set out a decent clip. Starting in the Championship pen with all the race horses means it's near impossible not to start a bit too fast, it's like being pulled along by a wave of speed - imagine a running of the bulls! There was no doubt in my mind that I'd be slowing down later on and when I comfortably passed half way at 1hr34, I was bang on target for the famous Danny Lee uneven split technique. The slow down was in the post and I was almost looking forward to it. I factored the tumbling speed into my game plan of 'have fun' and enjoy the support.
Mile 20 took an eternity to arrive , but when it did the support was fantastic. Thank you ELR! I nearly fell on a speed bump, such was my excitement to see Alexandra Wilkinson!
I smiled so much for 26 miles that my jaws hurt - part joy, part grimace. My thighs were on fire for the last 12 miles, the legs twitching and cramping. I was ticking off landmarks, placards, friends on the route, trying to focus on a couple of miles at a time and not get distracted by thoughts of the finish line, a pint and a Greggs sausage roll. And then eventually the finish line is there - I turn a corner and only 200 metres to go. Hands in the air, I crossed the line feeling very accomplished. 3hrs 17minutes. Not my fastest marathon but not a million miles away either.
Everyone pretends that marathons are fun, but they're not really. They are something more than that, something with a depth and sense of achievement much more than just having fun. They are hard and painful but deeply satisfying. I used to run marathons to see how fast I could go - now I run because I am amazed at what is still possible after cancer. And I do still like running a bit fast too sometimes.

Katy Betteridge: This is my first ever race report so please bare with me...
After 14 years of rejections in the public ballot my marathon journey started on 27th September last year. I was sat in the bar after a day sunning myself on the beach in Turkey when I got a one line message from Cindy to tell me to start training. My first thought was that she was joking, but then an excited message also popped up from Nosh (Imran's wife) and the reality started to sink in... after 14 years of rejections I had got a place in the London Marathon!
Unfortunately, as with many marathon stories, my training didn't go to plan. It started off with a calf injury in October and then just as I started feeling good again, including having conquered Benfleet 15 and the Orion 10, I was at a Wednesday club run and suddenly out of nowhere my knee started hurting. After a week of rest, it wasn't getting any better and so began a slow journey of trying to get to the start line. You name it, I tried it. I have never stretched so much in my life (If nothing else I have never been so close to being able to touch my toes!). Saw an osteopath (recommended by Sandra Preston ) and even started trying some alternative remedies (castor oil and cling film is quite messy it seems!). Then just as I started to give up hope and, even asked Cindy if she knew if I can defer a club ballot place, I turned a corner. I was using a run/walk strategy but somehow it kept the pain at bay and on Easter Monday I managed 20 miles. The marathon was back on! Next was a terrible cold during my taper which stopped me running for a week but by this point I was determined to get to the start line and, in no time at all, the big day came around.
On the day itself, I decided to stick with the run/walk strategy that had helped keep the knee pain at bay during my training. The plan was to run 4 miles and then walk 60 seconds every 2 miles whilst fueling and hydrating. The sun was shining as I set off and the crowds were immense. I have been into London to watch the marathon for years and never had I appreciated what it is like to be on the other side of the fence! The first few miles flew by before I saw my family at mile 4. The adrenaline was pumping and it was really hard to make myself walk but I reminded myself of the many words of wisdom I had been given in the preceeding weeks and stuck to the plan.
And so the miles started to tick down... Tower Bridge was incredible with the roar of the crowds being something I will never forget. I then started counting the miles down to the ELR water station. I had various people supporting me on route and at times I heard what I thought was a shout of my name, but the crowds were so huge it was hard to spot people.
As I got to mile 18 I started to feel it and was appreciating the 60 second walk breaks and debating whether to increase the frequency of them. I knew I was approaching the water station and told myself I was not going to walk again until I reached it. I got to the fire station and started to panic I had missed everyone (I didn't realise the water station had moved!) then I saw a sea of purple ahead before spotting Cindy jumping up and down on the side of the road! A quick hug and I was off again. It was just the boost I needed though and I now only (!) had 6 miles to go.
Mile 21 was where I really started to suffer; my legs were aching but the main issue was my fueling. I knew I needed to keep taking on the blocs I was using but I felt so close to being sick I just couldn't stomach them. As I approached Blackfriars tunnel I decided I was going to keep going until I entered it and then have a final walk break to try and keep the nausea at bay and keep running until the finish. So that is what I did.
As I came out of the tunnel, I began to think of Richard Kravitz and felt a wave of emotion. Richard had become an important part of my running journey since we trained for a sub 25 5K together before he found out his cancer had returned. It was also the day after getting my ballot place that he shared that he was moving to pallatitve care so, throughout my training, he was never far from my thoughts. Before he died he had told me he wanted me to think of him at this moment when I was struggling and it was with him in my mind that I put the feelings of nausea to one side and began to dig deep to get to the finish line.
And to the finish line I got! As I came up the mall I saw my family one last time and then I turned the corner and saw the finish line in sight. Suddenly there was only "2 laps of the track" to go and I would be finished. My whole body was screaming at me to stop but I glanced at my watch and saw that I was on track to do sub 4 hours 30 minutes and pushed on.
And then there it was, I was over the line. After 14 years I had completed the London Marathon and in 4 hours 27 minutes and 24 seconds!
As with all good run reports I want to finish by thanking everyone who helped me along the way and the club for giving me the opportunity to take part in such an incredible race. In particular I could never have got there without Cindy Koon who kept me company on my long runs even when I was run/walking and never let me give up on getting to the start line. It was also Richard who got me over the finish line and it is not too late to sponsor me for the Brain Tumour Charity in his memory.
https://www.justgiving.com/.../katrina-betteridge...
So now to end my report with the answer to the question everyone is asking; would I do it again or are marathons stupid?! All I will say is that, by the time I got home, I had already applied for the public ballot for 2025!


Samia Choudhury
What a privilege it was to run this epic marathon again and this time with a more healed body and not a postpartum body!

Ryan Friel: On Sunday I successfully completed the 2024 London Marathon in memory of my uncle Alec McCartan who sadly passed away last summer after brave battle against the blood cancer, Myeloma . He was an incredible man, a true character, an amazing uncle who I always looked up to and running was something we loved doing together.
I'm already truly grateful to all those who have already supported and donated but I'm still looking to raise more for Myeloma UK - the only charity in the UK that focus on the incurable blood cancer Myeloma and its related conditions. Anything at all that you can spare would be greatly appreciated -
I was able to run the marathon in one of Alec's running shirts which was a pleasure and I was fortunate enough to run with and cross the finish line with my wonderful wife, Flora, who is an inspiration to me. The whole day was a roller-coaster of emotions but the positivity was overwhelming and its hard to describe how incredible the crowds on the streets of London were, record numbers running and cheering, which was fully felt on the course. If you ever get the chance to run or even support, I couldn't recommend it enough.
Alec is still sorely missed by many. It was an honor to run for Alec, and it will be a day I cherish and never forget. Rest in peace uncle Alec.
Thank you,
Ryan

Jimmy Dale: London Marathon race report.
It's been a long time since I've written a race report, but reading the other reports, I thought I'd pen some thoughts.
Sunday was always going to be a big day as it was my 30th marathon, so I was feeling the pressure to perform. My last PB was 2 years ago, and with 2 young kids, training looks very different these days. On top of that, that week I'd been in the US with work, so adding jet lag and 2 poorly kids (and subsequent poor sleep), I didn't have high hopes.
I travelled down with Karan and decided to find the 3.20 pacer and hang on as long as possible. I aimed to try and get to mile 20 and hope I didn't fade too much.
I bumped into Betty in the bag drop and so started together, but after 3 miles, she was pulling off, so I opted to stay with the pacer, a decision that was definitely the right call as she finished 7 minutes ahead of me!.
I stuck with the pacer until, at mile 18 he started to pull off. However, looking at my watch, I was still sure I was ahead of pace.
Mile 20 was its usual burst of endorphins through the ELR water stand, and then at mile 21, I saw my wife and kids, having missed them by seconds at mile 15.
Doing the maths, I realised at mile 21 that if I kept doing 8 min miles, I'd PB and was still clocking out roughly 7.40 pace, so I dug in and was amazed to find I never seemed to hit the wall.
Coming down the embankment, I saw Karan off in the distance, so I dug in to catch him and raced him the last mile to come in at 3:19:25, nearly a 3 min pb (and allegedly faster than the pacer!)
It felt like everything came together on the day, and I think it's fair to say I'll be dining out of this feeling for weeks to come

TCS London Marathon 20 Mile Drink Station Volunteers - Sunday 21st April 2024

Additional helpers:

Trevor Dingle
Lia Moyà
Nora Espada
Steph Cook
Edward Sharman
Nathan Powell
Megan Bailey
Evan Cryer-Jenkins
Gary Collins
Richard Antcliffe
Martin Eden
Dermot Smyth
Ann Lumley
Andy Barkshire
Karen Barkshire
Katie Barkshire
Farzina Capadia
Ana Keogh
Jill Bowyer
Steph Cooke
Gill Clarke


Stuart: Once again ELR water station was a complete triumph, such an amazing day. The volunteers did ELR proud.

Alexandra Rutishauser-Perera:
So much work done in the prep by Alice Barrett and Catriona with great support by Jacob and Stuart! And on the day, everything working so well with so many people taking initiatives without being asked!!! What a team of volunteers, i am always so proud to be an #ELR on that day !!!.

Ian Mackie: Thanks to everyone at mile 20, a great uplift to see so many friends at a difficult stage in the race!.

Joshua Rees Davies: Thanks for your support today guys. I'm annoyed at myself as I was looking for a table of red coloured tops, so I almost missed you. Shame they make you wear the purple tops.

Ryan Friel: Great to see so many of you yesterday out there, well done to all the runners and
thanks to all who volunteered at the best water station on the course! What a day.

Suzanne Taylor: London Marathon 2024 report.
The abridged version:
Club ballot place (thank you ELR, thank you Sandra Preston).
13 miles by January. All good.
Jan/Feb/March - training going great guns.
QEOP Half Marathon in March, felt great.
Long run of 22 miles.
2 weeks before marathon.. pull a back muscle.
1 week before marathon.. need help getting dressed. Head demented... Postpone? Pull out? What a waste of training. Physio+Sports Massage+Rest.
Eureka moment, I can walk it if I need to!
Race Day: 2 hours on feet before starting (walk from station & loo queues). Silly, silly. No time to warm up. Silly, silly.
And we're off...blimey, I am running.. I haven't forgotten how to! Running in a weird bum out/head forward position to avoid strain on back..quads take the brunt.
Did it!
Huge thanks from me to the Sunday Run crew, the rain, the made up routes (mine..), the support and advice.
Huge thanks to the wise, wise women: Bernadett 'take the meds regularly' Kalmar, Ava '8 days away is still a long time' Lee, Caroline 'I think you know what I would do' Frith, Annette 'you've trained so hard, you can do it!' Clark, and Cat 'you've done your 22 miles and its still in your legs' Holt. Wonderful women xxxxx
(I had started to write a long form report and then thought that the diatribe sent to my best friend, post marathon, was probably more authentic. Edited a tad, plus with some numbing down of swear words)
The not so abridged version..
Literally taking baby steps up and down the stairs. Toenail a tad loose..otherwise not too bad thanks. Apart from ageing about ten years in the past week . It was all a blur. I smiled, I chatted, I cried, I shouted ffs to one bloke who cut across me, caused me to take a big lunge forwards, nearly landing on my face…not v in the spirit of the day, I know.
I made some nice buddies on my journey there, they knew the Save the Rhino crew so we stopped to chat with them for a bit as they rested under a tree in Greenwich Park..almost safari-like.
Atmosphere is brilliant, feels like an international circus has come to town. The whole event is a very well-oiled machine.
Blackheath was windy & cold, I joined the loo queue x3..just in case , this meant that I'd been on my feet for 2 hours by the time my start pen was called... simply excellent pre run planning. Gaby what's her name's (married to the ex rugby player), voice booming over the speaker. Blimey, its really happening. The BBC are here.
And we were off. I couldn't actually believe that my legs were working, and not too shabby a pace either. Just kept going. All a blur...just kept going. Legs feel great...they've been set loose after all the resting and tapering. Do know/feel that I'm running in a weird style though.
Woolwich, friend Anne and choir are singing there..can't pick out individual faces.
Cutty Sark, excellent. I'm still fine, still running.
At about Mile 11...quads start stiffening, don't stop, might not start again.
Kept going. Crowds are huge. Quite a few Taylor Swift/double album-related placards. Cute.
Gels/mental maths/what pace am I doing/no idea (as usual!)/keep going. See a 7hr pacer...then a 4hr 15 pacer...guess I'm somewhere inbetween!
In total awe when I turned from, I think, Narrow Street (indeed it is) and there was Tower Bridge! Not being great with maps..it was a surprise to see it ha ha! Right, we really are doing this, keep going. And smile!
So much of the course was so, so deep with people, couldn't see the blue line at times; collective sound was deafening in parts & it was quite nice to have respite in the underpass areas that the route goes through…interestingly that seemed to be where people stopped to stretch.
I saw Rob and Rosie at one point, brilliant! but poor Orla missed me by seconds, she came down after her footie match. Said afterwards that I was running too fast Saw a few friends at different points too. Great!
I did ‘big fish little fish’ with a group of groovsters who were blaring music from a balcony in Bermondsey (Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Relax..(ha ha ha) remix), my quads felt now like I had two bricks tied to them; I kept thinking 'I'll stop and stretch /ask St John's crew to spray deep heat' etc but then kept thinking if I stop I might not be able to start again, just keep going and sort myself out afterwards,the quicker I go, the sooner I'll finish approach.
Keep going, Mile 20 will be here soon. Where is Poplar Station? have I missed it? Quads bloody killing me now...should stop...keep going..there a St John's just before ELR water station.. but where are ELR? where's the loud speaker blokey from LFB? has someone changed the course?...Jacob!!! ELR club Director, really smiley face, so lovely...Immy, Sunday run buddy! Emotions came out at this point, fine line between pleasure and pain etc...
Forgot to stop for St Johns. 6 miles/10 km to go, watch already telling me I've clocked up another km, for the hell of it. Whoops, did I forget to take a gel? if I take another one...could I o.d? Heart pop with too much sugar? should I start taking Lucozade?
Mum is somewhere..with Andrew and Sam, no idea where..don't see them. Cheer on a few folk who are really struggling. Is that patronising?
"You've got this!'' ...no, I don't. Please stop saying that.
'Just a Parkrun to go!' Please, please don't say that. Parkrun is tough.
Keep running, nearly there. Remember the HofP aren't the finish ..keep going. I can always muster a sprint at the end of a race/run.. simply because I clearly don't go full pelt/flat out for most of a race/run ...so, as per form, I went to sprint the last 500m...head could, energy could, but quads/legs just couldn't physically create that motion. Not happening.
Threw myself across the finish line.
Lovely smiley volunteer lady placed the medal on me.
Then legs seized. Threw me straight into the physio / helping the wounded tent only for Jun, Physio ex Birmingham Uni and Felicity, training at Coventry Uni, to ask me tonnes of questions before they could start…so lovely, so kind, but selfishly all I could think was ffs just rub something into them, I've seized up here. A bloke from Mexico was sitting beside me..having his blisters popped...I had to turn away for fear of eye-splash.
I then joined the sprawled out bodies of people in the park, scoffed down nuts and crisps, so needed salt; chatted to a guy from Scotland..drinking Irn Bru..said he'd never ever run another marathon again. I attempted to stretch, then changed out of my sodden shorts (I was like a tap , one woman told me she'd put an extra HRT patch on that morning (lucky cow I thought), another told me she'd run out and bought period pants the day before, still, no wee stops for me along the route .
Slow walk to the tube. Sat beside a young family from who'd come into town for the day, to do the Tower Of London tour...'bloody runners everywhere'.
What a day! The whole thing is truly incredible, its like running in a spin cycle. I'm a bit flat because I know I could have got under 4.30, training runs and a couple of races recently showed the signs were there. I know however how bloody lucky I was to get a place, to get the start line at all, & that I was able to run the whole way.
Can't wait now to resume walks, podcasts, telly viewing and in general, having nothing to have to focus on. For now..
ELR buddies, if you've got this far, you deserve a medal.

Velopark 10km - Saturday 20th April 2024

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 20th April 2024

Wimbledon Common parkrun
446 276 Danny WONG 00:32:36
Finsbury parkrun
275 43 Sarah BURNS 00:25:31
705 262 Anna DINGLE 00:32:45
Hackney Marshes parkrun
417 148 Vivienne EKA 00:35:10
Roding Valley parkrun
17 16 Jimmy DALE 00:23:24
71 51 Tim AYLETT 00:28:34
111 41 Victoria CHARLESWORTH 00:33:38
112 42 Caroline MOORE 00:33:39
Valentines parkrun
48 46 Imran MUSTAK 00:23:02
56 53 Matthew POWELL 00:23:17
63 59 Grant CONWAY 00:23:26
68 64 Michael WILSON 00:23:39
138 115 George GEORGIOU 00:26:47
151 23 Bilkis ACHHA 00:27:14
196 47 Ann DUNNE 00:28:45
229 62 Naimah RIAZ 00:30:02
318 102 May HAU 00:33:53
377 138 Elizabeth O'DONNELL 00:38:47
Wanstead Flats parkrun
13 13 Alex PICKERING 00:20:32
24 22 Finbar SHEAHAN 00:21:50
53 45 Scott MCMILLAN 00:23:54
175 121 Andrew HOWARD 00:30:30
192 58 Fiona DAY 00:31:25
262 104 Diana REXHEPAJ 00:40:26
Pymmes parkrun
55 45 Joshua REES 00:26:54
Mile End parkrun
463 296 David WYATT 00:30:50
Harrow Lodge parkrun
32 28 Clive STEPHENSON 00:23:49
Walthamstow parkrun
123 26 Janet BYWATER 00:33:03
Springburn parkrun, Glasgow
75 54 Frank BROWNLIE 00:31:11
Great Notley parkrun
51 12 Fiona CRITCHLEY 00:25:50
85 64 Stuart BARTON 00:28:57
Kesgrave parkrun
25 23 Steve SWAN 00:21:03
Lancaster parkrun
23 21 Paul MARSHALL 00:23:25
Felixstowe parkrun
163 40 Katherine HARRIS 00:27:25
Harleston Magpies parkrun
13 13 Terry LEWSEY 00:22:29

CSAA 10km - Wednesday 17th April 2024

128th Bank of America Boston Marathon - Monday 15th April 2024

25,538 finishers - 14,578 men and 10,912 women.

Shahib: 128th Boston Marathon, 03:51:08, 20th official marathon, now an Abbotts World Marathon Majors Six Star Finisher - Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York City marathons. It was hot, sunny and challenging with barely any cloud cover or shade, an up and down, hilly course; just relieved to have safely navigated the race, but what sensational support on the course (the Wellesley College section was a notable standout), truly unforgettable, a uniquely famous route steeped in history, felt incredibly fortunate to have been a part of this race. This completes an amazing journey that started in 2008, during my university days before marriage and children, I have created some cherished memories along the way and shared it with so many people, a special thank you to my wife Samia Choudhury and sister in law Tasnia Choudhury for their unfailing support. "You start as a runner. You finish as a Boston Marathoner."

Caroline's report: Boston Marathon
Wow! What an experience. And one that almost didn't happen. In February I finally had an answer to my ongoing calf pain - tibial stress reaction, most probably caused by one of the medications I'm on, because I really wasn't doing enough running to cause shin splints, which is why it wasn't responding to rest and strengthening exercises. I am under Homerton Sports Medicine and they said as long as it wasn't too painful I could do it - but listen to my body and be sensible (they clearly don't know me very well!)
I've now changed the dose of that medication so hopefully things will improve.
I also was in hospital a week before the race, 4 days before my flight, having a liver biopsy - probably not recommended in the RW marathon training plan.
However - it was a case of use it or lose it, as I'm never going to get another Boston Qualifying time, so I thought I'd give it a go, not care about my time too much and have fun.
It was great sharing the experience with John, Shahib and Tom, and meeting up with them and Samia at Jamaica Pond parkrun on Saturday.
Boston is a point to point marathon which requires considerable logistics - they have to bus many thousands of runners to the start in Hopkinton, and you're not allowed to take anything with you as bag drop is before you get on the bus.
It was hot! Blue sky and no clouds for most of it, and very little shade on the course. My wave started at 10.50am and off we went!
Immediately people were weaving in and out, and it was so nice just to let them go whilst I jogged down the very considerable hills at the start.
I told myself I'd quite like 4.30 which would have been achievable with 10 min miles, but I'd done very little running in training (but a lot of swimming and cycling) and had no idea what was actually possible - and already had 2 doses of ibuprofen before the start.
The crowds were insane - definitely London on steroids - and not that many people seem to have names on their shirt, so those of us that did got a lot of attention.
There is also absolutely no fancy dress allowed - so no chance of being overtaken by a man in lead boots carrying an ironing board - and there are no pacers.
The route is essentially a straight line to Boston - it was 17 miles before we turned a corner. It goes through lots of different towns, all seemed quite affluent, nice houses, pretty churches, schools, fire stations and locals out having a party - it's on Patriot's Day, a public holiday in Massachusetts, so people have the day off work.
Wellesley College is halfway - an all girl's college with the infamous scream tunnel - there was a lot of screaming, and girls holding signs saying kiss me. I resisted.
Miles 16-21 are the Newton Hills, with the last one being Heartbreak Hill, not steep but long and at a cruel place in a marathon.
Boston College is at about mile 22 and that was a huge gothic structure that really took my breath away, oh and I almost forgot Big Bird who happily posed for a picture at about 12 miles.
My quads hurt from about halfway but my calf was surprisingly fine, did I mention it was hot?!
Water is in cups every mile along with Gatorade and the road became a sea of paper cups - major trip hazard! I decided early on I was going to walk the water stations because otherwise I would have ended up tipping it down myself instead of drinking it, so I had water from every other water station, which became a focus and short term goal as I knew I could walk for 20 seconds.
I also ate real food for the first time in a marathon - a giant pretzel stick which was actually really good.
In the first half I felt like everyone overtook me. Your starting position is based on your qualifying time and mine was pretty good so I was surrounded by speedy people. But then in the second half I overtook lots of people, and lots of people were walking, especially up the hills, so I was happy to run every step of the way apart from the water stations.
You don't enter the city of Boston till 25 miles, by which point the crowds were insane.
Obviously due to the bomb in 2013 (my sister ran that year) there was a lot of security, military, police with big guns and helicopters, but that didn't detract from the event and I certainly wasn't worried.
The race ends on Boylston street which had been the centre of activity all weekend. The finish line is painted on the ground.
Boston knows how to throw a good party and the city did itself proud. I think if the weather was bad and the crowd support not there then it would be very tough - it's the crowds that make the race what it is.
Best sign on the course - Pain is temporary, Strava is forever. Most disgusting thing offered on the course - pickle juice and salt.
Knowing how many people were dot watching kept me going - that and the fact I had a 9pm flight to catch.
I don't think you can compare it to London as they are very different, each great in their own way.
Oh and my time - 4.08.15. My slowest of my 4 marathons but my second favourite. Nothing will top London last year.
And my only marathon in an ELR vest - The unicorn is mine.
Caroline: Moment of the race - meeting Big Bird
Heading to the airport - just wanted to say thank you so much for
all the virtual support. It was weird not having people dotted
around the course - especially at mile 20 which is heartbreak hill
- but knowing so many people were rooting for me back home made all
the difference. So glad I just get to watch on Sunday!!

Chiclana Half Marathon - Sunday 14th April 2024

Manchester Marathon - Sunday 14th April 2024

Natasha Howard: Manchester marathon - Sunday 14 April 2024
TLDR - I did it!
I can't fully report on my first marathon without also giving my (running) life story, my journey to sobriety (thank you Maya) and being in contempt of court (IYKYK) but I'll do my best. I guess this is one of the things that make the marathon distance so special; the story behind every bib.
Prior to Manchester I had not made it to the start line of 3 marathons (Brighton 2017 got a chest infection 3 weeks before and pulled out under doctor’s orders, Milton Keynes 2016 and Chelmsford 2022 stepped down to the half before the race). So initially my aim for Manchester was just to get to the start line. I knew that if I could get to the start line I would get round.
A month before the race I knew I had done just about enough training. But that my main weakness was mental. Nagging self-doubt (should I even be doing this?) and the disbelief that I would ever get to a start line. I started listening to running affirmations (when doing chores) and binaural beats with subliminal messaging at bedtime. I chose a set of affirmations and put them on my phone homescreen and bathroom mirror:
This is my time
I have already won
I am grateful for this opportunity
Pain is temporary
3 weeks out I tripped over a laptop cable but caught myself. 2 weeks out my son came home with a hideous cold. I was already dosed up on vitamins, probiotics and elderberry syrup. But he was (willingly) banished to his room for 3 evenings till the symptoms subsided. As the two 20 mile training runs came and went without injury or incident I added to my aims:
1 to get to the start line
2 to get to the finish line
3 to smile for the cameras
4 to make a friend
My race number didn't arrive in the post so as I drove up to Manchester on Friday there was still part of me that thought it wasn't going to happen. I was staying in an AirB&B with a couple of old school friends and friend of friend. On Saturday morning we headed into town to collect replacement bibs and it was only then that I knew it was definitely happening.
Sunday morning the women left the AirB&B at 0900 to walk to the start (our token male runner was in the earlier yellow wave). I'd written "I am grateful" on my hand with a Sharpie (there wasn’t enough room for the full phrase). The route went past the end of our road and we’d planned to see the elite runners on our way. There were already people out on the street and we cheered the elite runners as they passed. As we got nearer we joined more runners, all being sucked into the race village vortex.
We went through to bag drop and then I left the others as they were starting in the wave behind me. I could have dropped back but I felt I needed to be on my own to focus, go through my affirmations, aims and race plan.
As I made it through the start process weather was looking up, relatively speaking. I’ve never been good at running when it is warmer and these days I also take medication that makes me more sensitive to heat and sunlight. I had put on factor 50 on all exposed areas so was covered from that point of view. But I knew I would need to take it even “easier” than planned. I abandoned ideas of trying to keep the 4:45 pacer in sight.
We set off just before 1100. I forced myself to go even slower than my slow for the first mile. It was busy, there was a lot of weaving about and I was worried about getting tripped up, or tripping someone else up. After a few minutes I realised there were yellow wave people coming in the opposite direction on the other side of the carriageway so I tried to spot our runner. We saw each other, waved and shouted “see you soon”.
I can’t remember much about the first 6 miles. Between 6 and 7 miles I saw two more of our gang from pink wave on the other side of the road. One was so far ahead I knew she would overtake me (she’d run a sub 2 hour PB half a few weeks before and is in great shape). When she drew up alongside a few minutes later she asked if I was enjoying it, I said "I don’t think we’ve really started yet!" and told her to crack on and I’d see her soon.
Miles 6-13 passed without much incident. I was running comfortably, walking the water stations as planned. Eating Turkish Delight (not Frys, the traditional kind) just before each water station. Around mile 13 I started taking salt tablets. I'd not tried these in training so this was a risk. But with the weather I felt it was worth it. Thankfully the gamble paid off and there were no ill effects.
By the time we got to the infamous Altringham Mountain around mile 17 I was in pain in both my hips. I was grateful that the pain was on both sides and equal. I’d been rigorous about including little hills towards the end of training runs (and had conquered the Baldock Beast in February) so I took the Mountain in my stride.
Heading back into town I really had to focus. Remembering to look up, fix my shoulders. Occasionally I could hear the guy from the affirmations video saying "even if it hurts, I will not stop". And so it was. I kept running, only walking the water stations. I remained grateful for the opportunity. I’d read that halfway in the marathon is 20 miles, so I was relieved to get there. Miles 20-23 seemed to take for ever. After that spectators signs and runners were saying “just one parkrun to go!”. After mile 24 I realised I only had "one and change" left and it was nearly over. For a moment I was a bit sad. It had flown past in a blur.
In some ways the finish was an anti climax. Once I got to the start I knew I’d finish. As for my other aims, there are a few photos of me smiling. I didn’t make a "proper" race friend on the day, just chatted to a couple of people. I got away without any blisters and minimal chaffing where I had skimped on the chub rub. My hip pain eased off overnight and by Tuesday morning I was walking normally. So much so that my work colleagues questioned if I’d really run a marathon!
My finishing time of 5:13 leaves plenty of room for improvement, should I make it to another start line. I remain grateful.

Reading Half Marathon - Sunday 14th April 2024

Hadleigh 2012 Legacy 10km, Benfleet - Sunday 14th April 2024

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 13th April 2024

Valentines parkrun
13 12 Tommy HO 00:21:08
16 14 Ashley FARIA 00:21:13
31 28 Calvin BOBIN 00:22:48
33 30 Darminder BHAMRA 22:51
51 44 Michael WILSON 00:23:57
70 56 Matthew POWELL 00:25:06
76 61 George GEORGIOU 00:25:16
101 81 John O'BRIEN 00:26:34
109 88 Andrew HOWARD 00:26:57
137 35 Bilkis ACHHA 00:28:10
149 41 Ann DUNNE 00:28:47
150 106 Ryan FRIEL 00:28:49
172 120 Jason LEVY 00:30:01
178 50 Victoria CHARLESWORTH 30:13
183 53 Katrina BETTERIDGE 30:22
253 84 May HAU 00:35:16
270 93 Elizabeth O'DONNELL 36:47
292 110 Joanna QIU 00:38:13
293 167 Nathaniel DYE 00:38:25
Wanstead Flats parkrun
25 22 Ian MACKIE 00:21:58
27 24 Finbar SHEAHAN 00:22:31
29 26 Jonny SHAW 00:22:34
205 66 Kasia STACHOWIAK 33:02
253 95 Vivienne EKA 00:37:39
Mile End parkrun
322 218 Liam DEMPSEY 00:30:03
Hilly Fields parkrun
208 130 Martin QUINLAN 00:31:39
Great Notley parkrun
57 50 David TAYLOR 00:26:43
Victoria Dock parkrun
33 29 Mark MOIR 00:22:40
Felixstowe parkrun
163 34 Katherine HARRIS 27:47
Harleston Magpies parkrun
56 32 Don BENNETT 00:41:40
Lordship Recreation Ground parkrun
156 94 Richard GUEST 00:34:41
Roding Valley parkrun
19 18 Jimmy DALE 00:21:34
74 61 Tim AYLETT 00:28:30
108 35 Caroline MOORE 00:32:40
Worthing parkrun
508 152 Molly PINKUS 00:31:23
Gunpowder parkrun
24 19 Andrew BAXTER 00:21:09
Beckton parkrun
49 14 Diana REXHEPAJ 00:35:54

Chase The Sun 10km, QEOP - Wednesday 10th April 2024

Chase The Sun 5km, QEOP - Wednesday 10th April 2024

156 finishers.

Berlin Half Marathon - Sunday 7th April 2024

Paris Marathon - Sunday 7th April 2024

Tewinbury Trails 10km - Sunday 7th April 2024

London Landmarks Half Marathon - Sunday 7th April 2024

Wizz Air Milano Marathon - Sunday 7th April 2024

Brighton Marathon - Sunday 7th April 2024

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 6th April 2024

Valentines parkrun
20 18 Ashley FARIA 00:21:26
47 39 Imran MUSTAK 00:23:43
65 54 Michael WILSON 00:24:57
109 85 Darminder BHAMRA 00:27:56
114 25 Diana REXHEPAJ 00:28:21
128 33 Cindy KOON 00:28:49
134 36 Ann DUNNE 00:29:10
147 40 Victoria CHARLESWORTH 00:29:56
220 74 May HAU 00:35:31
247 92 Elizabeth O'DONNELL 00:38:19
Wanstead Flats parkrun
15 13 Ian MACKIE 00:22:50
152 48 Fiona DAY 00:34:19
Chester parkrun
233 159 Arthur DIAZ 00:33:18
Mile End parkrun
16 15 Shahib ALI 00:19:31
56 47 Mark MOIR 00:21:39
Barking parkrun
67 14 Tina BENNETT 00:28:01
Walthamstow parkrun
31 29 Peter HATLEY 00:24:42
Springburn parkrun, Glasgow
99 65 Frank BROWNLIE 00:32:44
Great Notley parkrun
62 11 Fiona CRITCHLEY 00:26:54
Felixstowe parkrun
134 26 Katherine HARRIS 27:50
Morecambe Prom parkrun
26 25 Paul MARSHALL 00:21:36
Porch Field parkrun
17 12 Viktor F SZABADI 00:28:28
Harleston Magpies parkrun
63 34 Don BENNETT 00:41:52
Grovelands parkrun, Enfield
91 73 George GEORGIOU 00:27:21
Basildon parkrun
80 66 Andrew HOWARD 00:27:45
Roding Valley parkrun
72 22 Caroline MOORE 00:32:22
Highbury Fields parkrun
520 258 Richard GUEST 00:37:32
Chelmsford Central parkrun
603 165 Natasha HOWARD 00:31:26
Kesgrave parkrun
23 22 Steve SWAN 00:21:35

Bedford Half Marathon - Monday 1st April 2024

194 finishers

Basildon 10km - Monday 1st April 2024

213 finishers.

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 30th March 2024

Roding Valley parkrun
62 18 Victoria CHARLESWORTH 00:32:16
68 21 Caroline MOORE 00:34:16
Valentines parkrun
31 27 Calvin BOBIN 00:22:03
43 38 Peter HATLEY 00:23:11
57 50 Michael WILSON 00:23:55
58 51 Imran MUSTAK 00:23:57
84 72 John O'BRIEN 00:25:10
115 89 Darminder BHAMRA 00:27:08
120 23 Mary Frances O'BRIEN 00:27:44
159 38 Cindy KOON 00:29:29
206 133 Joe PRESTON 00:32:03
216 64 Sarah LOCKLEY 00:32:43
289 160 Mark DURRANT 00:45:40
Wanstead Flats parkrun
13 11 Fernando ESPADA 00:22:21
15 13 Ian MACKIE 00:22:33
67 56 Scott MCMILLAN 00:26:37
153 45 Fiona DAY 00:34:39
Pymmes parkrun
17 14 Alex PICKERING 00:20:47
Medina I.O.W. parkrun
98 87 Jonathan WOOLDRIDGE 00:25:03
Gunpowder parkrun
24 22 Andrew BAXTER 00:20:03
Mile End parkrun
17 14 Shahib ALI 00:19:26
215 159 Liam DEMPSEY 00:29:01
227 166 David WYATT 00:29:41
Hilly Fields parkrun
174 114 Martin QUINLAN 00:30:47
Rushcliffe parkrun
12 11 Joe GUNN 00:19:30
Walthamstow parkrun
67 18 Janet BYWATER 00:30:35
106 60 Steve BYWATER 00:43:24
Great Notley parkrun
77 63 David TAYLOR 00:28:26
Castle Park parkrun
55 50 James CREED 00:23:26
Victoria Dock parkrun
190 119 Andrew HOWARD 00:53:24
Sizewell parkrun
100 73 Stuart BARTON 00:27:35
St Mary’s parkrun
170 67 Elizabeth O'DONNELL 00:37:33
Porch Field parkrun
24 19 Viktor F SZABADI 00:26:53
34 11 Bernadett KALMAR 00:28:25

Run Through Victoria Park half marathon - Friday 29th March 2024

622 finishers.

Run Through Victoria Park 10km - Friday 29th March 2024

464 finishers.

Maya reports: 'So if it's an ELT Grand Prix race, I wear ELT colours?'
This was what I messaged @stevietruns yesterday. (Steve is an Orion runner as well as an ELT. )
'Of course! One of the few times we can!'
Hmm. I realised I don't have an ELT running vest. Just a cycle jersey. Well that will have to do. I packed my ELR vest in my rucksack. Just in case, and for luck.
I haven't raced properly for months, it's all been track training or easy long runs. I was feeling good and interested to see how my running had changed, so I had a plan to Go For It today. I was determined. On the tube I started hearing that little voice though 'well, y'know, you could just '
I hushed it up. 'Do NOT talk yourself out of this Maya. You have a plan. Stick to it.'
My plan was, keep under 10 min miles for the whole thing. Start strong and hold on. So that's what I did. I only looked at my watch every time it beeped for a mile, and every time I saw my pace for that mile started with a 9, it gave me a boost.
'You can' pull back now, you're going to do this properly.'
'Be comfortable being uncomfortable'
'You're absolutely on for a PB. Just hang on'
I huffed and puffed, and in the last mile I wondered if I might even make it under an hour. And I think that was my mistake, I lost a bit of focus. 1:00:22.
But that's a PB by more than two minutes. I'm delighted.

St Albans Easter 10km - Friday 29th March 2024

814 finishers

Hampton Court Half Marathon - Sunday 24th March 2024

4583 finishers

Twin Lakes 10 mile - Sunday 24th March 2024

334 finishers.

Joe Gunn "I did the 20 mile route but they messed up my result. Such is life."

Lee Valley Run Fest Half Marathon - Sunday 24th March 2024

224 finishers

Lee Valley Run Fest 10km - Sunday 24th March 2024

253 finishers

Hastings Half Marathon - Sunday 24th March 2024

2540 finishers

Fleet Half Marathon - Sunday 24th March 2024

2168 finishers

Brentwood Half Marathon - Sunday 24th March 2024

1829 finishers.

Orion 15 - Saturday 23rd March 2024

selected parkrun results - all venues - Saturday 23rd March 2024

Valentines parkrun
14 13 Daniel O'DONOGHUE 00:21:00
32 31 Matthew POWELL 00:22:48
38 37 Ross LUCAS 00:23:11
79 69 George GEORGIOU 00:26:04
88 15 Katrina BETTERIDGE 00:26:56
117 29 Mary Frances O'BRIEN 00:28:40
125 94 Andrew HOWARD 00:29:08
182 122 Ryan FRIEL 00:32:14
219 80 May HAU East Lon 00:34:43
246 98 Elizabeth O'DONNELL 00:36:40
258 105 Joanna QIU 00:38:55
Wanstead Flats parkrun
24 23 Finbar SHEAHAN 00:22:38
26 25 Jonny SHAW 00:22:46
70 63 Scott MCMILLAN 00:26:02
Mile End parkrun
18 18 Shahib ALI 00:19:32
92 81 Mark MOIR 00:23:16
263 187 Liam DEMPSEY 00:28:59
315 202 David WYATT 00:31:07
Walthamstow parkrun
26 22 Nick HOULT 00:24:41
Raphael parkrun
247 79 Natasha HOWARD 00:34:00
Gunpowder parkrun
17 14 Alex PICKERING 00:21:31
Hilly Fields parkrun
214 133 Martin QUINLAN 00:32:22
Springburn parkrun, Glasgow
83 57 Frank BROWNLIE 00:33:10
Kesgrave parkrun
56 53 Steve SWAN 00:23:19
Hastings parkrun
142 37 Clare STEVENS 29:45
204 69 Morag CAMPBELL 33:47
Stretford parkrun
339 109 Claire EMERY 29:44
Felixstowe parkrun
172 46 Katherine HARRIS 00:29:29
Roding Valley parkrun
69 21 Caroline MOORE 00:33:34
Porch Field parkrun
24 13 Viktor F SZABADI 00:29:27

AON Mullingar Half Marathon - Sunday 17th March 2024