Matt’s Marathon

Well, I survived! It was so, so hot. I’m really not comfortable running in the heat so I was never going to get a decent time. The heat got the better of me at about 13 miles. I felt pretty terrible and from that point on, walked and ran the rest of the route. 5hr 5m was my time. The support from people all the way along was absolutely phenomenal. The encouragement they provided really made a difference, especially the last 4-5 miles. I just wish I could’ve ran a better time. The heat just took everything I had after about half way round and I struggled to the end, limping across the line in the amazing atmosphere of the AMT stadium. Wow.

It was such a brilliant day and I’m so pleased that I took part. Thank you to everyone who came out to cheer us all on, and big special thank you to the lady I danced with half way up the big hill past the Chevin at mile 18. Brimful of Asha never sounded so good :-)

That’s it from me. Thank you all so so much for donating and supporting my cause. I feel so privileged to have such generous, kind and supportive friends, family and work colleagues. You’re all superstars.

Hi everyone. It’s nearly time. I can’t thank you all enough for your generosity, kindness and support over the last few months. I feel like I’ve been on a journey, both physically and mentally, and participating in the event tomorrow will be a celebration of my training. Weather conditions look good, although it’s going to be much warmer than I’d like - my Scottish blood isn’t happy in the heat!

The energy I felt watching the event last year will be amplified a hundred times tomorrow. The people who come out to cheer and encourage everyone on the course make such a difference. A gruelling physical undertaking is transformed into a truly unforgettable day filled with positivity and camaraderie. It’s one of the beauties of sport.

The lead up to tomorrow will have been emotional for many people. The coming together for an event like this is something everyone should experience. It brings home everything that is good about sport and it reminds us that we’re in it together, either with friends, relatives, or on behalf of someone near or far, or not with us anymore. It’s the taking part that counts but it wouldn’t be so special without the goodness of so many others.

My Mum and Dad and everyone who depend on the Linlithgow Community Day Care Centre will benefit from all your donations. I’m so incredibly touched and grateful. Thank you all. My number 7 and I are ready to enjoy Matt’s Marathon.

One week to go and I’ve started dreaming about running! :-O  As a friend of mine said, “You’re obviously taking it seriously!”.

I’m definitely getting apprehensive now, but I think the excitement is outweighing everything else. I’ve been in the tapering down phase of my training these past couple of weeks. I had a super comfortable 15 mile run this morning, unintentionally achieving my fastest half marathon and 10K times! If I feel that good next Sunday I’ll be more than happy!

This week is all about rest, getting good sleep, keeping my electrolytes topped up, staying hydrated and of course, carb loading! My race number arrived in the post last week and I also collected my running vest from a local shop I asked to emboss a number seven on the back - my way of showing my respect and admiration for Rob Burrow, support of his family, and all those battling with MND. It’ll be an emotional day.

I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has donated and supported me. I wish I could thank you all in person. The money raised will go directly towards funding the charity who provide care and support to my Mum and Dad and so many others.