The Kent Roadrunner Marathon was a resounding success, thanks to the phenomenal organising abilities of Ian J Berry. Attention to detail is something that he excels in. He promised a very special marathon, and he delivered a very special marathon.
I have never seen so many happy runners and glowing comments in praise of a race and its organisation. I have also never before lived with a Race Director and experience first hand exactly what is required to organise an event. I think if more people were aware of what actually goes on behind the scenes then they would think very differently about a great many things and perhaps not take each and every race that they do for granted.
I was given the honour of starting the race with my very special Union Jack Flag (the very one that ran the final mile with me in the 100K World Championships). I had to move pretty fast to avoid being stampeded by the enthusiastic runners as they started the Kent Roadrunner Marathon!!
The winner of the race was Steve Gumbrill, running his first ever marathon. Female winner was the wonderful Jen Salter, running a personal best time on the day.
The winning time of 2:48 was just outside the April winning time at the same venue of 2:44, achieved by Irish International ultra runner, Dan Doherty.
So many people spoke of achieving personal best times, including Traviss Willcox, Cameron Cumming, Heather McDonald-Hamilton, David Hegarty (my fellow 4:10 pace maker in New York Marathon), Helen James, Carolyn Hall, Matt Dunn and many more...... so good to see their proud smiling faces.
Without doubt, the most emotional part of the day was seeing Kobi on each and every lap. In honour and as a tribute to him, Traviss had chosen to wear a t-shirt with his face upon it, my favourite picture of this special little dog. We promised Kobi that one day he would run a marathon. In life we were unable to fulfil this promise, thanks to Traviss we saw it happen and that itself offers some respite to the turmoil I currently live in.
The volunteers that we had on the day were exceptional. Smiling and so helpful, never complaining, just doing what needed doing. Ironically they enjoyed the event so much that many have already entered for next year, meaning we will need to find new volunteers! We have already received a large number of entries for the 2013 event, tribute indeed to the skills and ability of tzruns, AKA Ian J Berry!
The specially designed Huskies Running medals were very well received from people that know us and those that did not. Many people did not understand the connection between a marathon and Huskies Running and asked to be enlightened.... Several people ran the marathon just to earn a medal!
Being part of this marathon although very exhausting, was very special. Seeing all Ian's hard work come together on the day, was delightful. Always the perfectionist he is already planning changes to make the 2013 event even better.....
(Photo Copyright Sussex Sport Photography 2012)
