THE BOSTON MARATHON shocked me to the core this week. I was out doing my final run ahead of the marathon this weekend and when I got back to my house I had a text from a friend telling me what had happened. I immediately turned on the news and was glued to the TV the rest of the night.
It’s so distressing and incomprehensible to even try and understand why people would destroy such an inspirational event of achievement, where all the runners have trained for months to help and raise money for those who really need it. I know Boston has such a strong Irish community so it was quite a worrying time for everyone who has family and friends there.
A black ribbon as a mark of respect
They’re increasing the security for the London marathon this weekend but I’m not scared, fearful or worried about it as I feel the people who carried out the Boston attacks are nothing but senseless cowards. The Virgin London marathon organisers have been really fantastic and emailed us everyday with updates. There is going to be a minutes silence at the start line in Greenwich and every runner will be given a black ribbon to wear as a mark of respect for the people in Boston. I’m even more excited than I already was and so proud to be taking part in this amazing event.
As I’ve never really ran any further than up a staircase in my life, the prospect of signing up for the London marathon was quite a daunting one.
It’s probably one of the most physically challenging things I’ve ever signed up to especially as I’m a social animal who likes to live it up in London. The gym has become the new pub and the pavement has become the new dance floor. My Friday night heels have been replaced by trainers and the only drink I have is my hand is water and diet coke as a treat! My friends have been so supportive although I think they were astounded at first as I wouldn’t strike them as the running type.
More things to life
You soon begin to realise that there is more fulfilling things in life to do on weekends instead of hangovers, which have gladly become foreign to me. Let’s just say I’ve seen a lot of London over the past few months. It’s actually unbelievable to run past Buckingham palace on a 20 mile run and discover this fascinating city. You discover little secret streets and areas that you’d never even come close to on a bus or a Tube. I have discovered so many little authentic gems on my adventures which have inspired me for the summer.
I’ve been blown away and overwhelmed by the generosity of all the people who have sponsored me and even more so by people who I’ve never even met. One of my friend’s boyfriends donated me €100 as a good deed gesture and I’ve never even met him. It’s a very touching and a great feeling when people believe in you and sponsor you along the way. That really keeps you going. Continue reading…