Mike Clyne gives some tips to the novice marathoner on how to make sure your marathon day remains a favourite memory for many years to come!
- No complaining or whining. No one forced you to enter or race. Just be grateful that you are able to be here. Look around and soak up the energy
- Thank a volunteer/marshal
- Aim to have helped at least one fellow athlete at least once in the day whether it be to share something from your kit, to encourage someone along the way or help someone after the finish who is struggling
- Acknowledge the spectators when you can. Try to make a few seconds at least once in the day to personally thank one person for coming out to cheer on athletes they don't know
- Enjoy the whole course and especially the finish line whatever your time.
- Make sure you remember the landmarks of the course as well as the crowds that came out to support you and thousands of others.
- Think of the five people who made most sacrifices or most supported you - and mentally dedicate one of the last 5 miles to each of them
- Be impressed at yourself and no false modesty - most people won't even drive 26.2 miles that day!
- Commit to encourage and help at least one person to become more active as a result of your marathon.
- Enjoy every part of the day despite pain or fatigue. Be positive. Soak up the energy around you and give it back!!
About the author: Mike Clyne is part of the adidas team at the 2011 Virgin London Marathon.
Inspired into running by the first London Marathon in 1981 Mike then
trained for and completed a local 10 mile fun run in October 1982, his
first half marathon in 1983 and then his first marathon (Abingdon) in
May 1983, aged 16. He continued running and did his first London
marathon in April 1985, in the days when the Isle of Dogs was very
different and the finish was on Westminster Bridge.
To date Mike has completed 9 Ironmans, 12 Half Ironmans, 20
Marathons (of which 11 are Londons) and many half marathons. Mike has
been a London Pacer for 11 min mile group in 2007 and 2009.
His aim for London 2011 is a steady 4h30 as part of his build up to Ironman Regensburg in August.
