The day following the London marathon is one where I am not just thinking about my poor legs and especially my knees. It is also a good time to reflect on why do it. There is an aspect of personal satisfaction of setting a challenge and completing. Just finishing the 26 mile is incredibly satisfying but participating with many other wonderful runners makes it particularly special.
It is tough enough as it is but some runners like to add an extra challenge. Mostly, this is in the form of a costume of some sort – I saw a rhinoceros, Storm Trooper and beer bottles. The most incredible competitor was a chap who bounced two basket balls as he ran the entire course!
Almost every competitor was running for a cause close to their heart and was a special way to thank a charity for the work that they do or to mark the memory of someone close. I ran for Bolton Hospice who do so much good work for so many people across Bolton and beyond.