When the pacemaker told me that he was running his 20th marathon of the year and 100th overall it put it very much in perspective that this was my first! Choosing to run with the 3 hour 45 minute pace makers ensured that I didn’t set off too fast and then burn out. I was determined to finish and there was a lot at stake thanks to the wonderful support and sponsorship that had been pledged to the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT).
The atmosphere was brilliant with great camaraderie amongst the runners and brilliant support from the crowd.
The route through the city was picturesque. The course then took us down and back up the river Amstel, where the scenery was beautiful but the crowds were a bit thin on the ground!
The 3.45 pace felt comfortable and just before the half way point I decided to push on and leave the pacing group, reaching half way in 1 hour 52 minutes.
The second half was tough and got much tougher once I got past my previous maximum run distance (22 miles). Driving me on though was the sense of achievement and the funds being raised for CAFT.
Reaching the 1000m to go sign signalled a sprint finish (honest!) and the best sight of the day. The entrance to the Olympic stadium with the Olympic rings was a great inspiration and finishing in the stadium really added to the experience. Crossing the finish line in 3 hours 37 minutes the only feeling was elation as I couldn’t feel my legs any more!
Thanks to every ones kind generosity and sponsorship CAFT will benefit substantially with funds raised totalling £3,000 including gift aid.
On behalf of myself and CAFT we owe everyone who sponsored me a huge thank you. The thought of the funds being raised drove me on through the run and I know that CAFT will be incredibly grateful for the donation. Thanks from us to you.
TONY COLLIER
Date:25 October 2007
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