The International marathon

Chester marathon 
4:16:15

I guess that's what rushed training does for you.
I think last week's half being more comfortable and quicker than I intended lulled me into a false sense of confidence today. The first half was fine and consistent, if a touch faster than I intended. That pace dropped a bit for the next few miles, but still under target, before the wheels came off spectacularly at around 18 miles, my legs felt like jelly, and it was just about one foot in front of the other. Somehow, with just short of 3 miles to go I managed to get my legs turning over again and the final mile was the fastest of the last 8. I think the anticipation of seeing Louisa and Owen along Castle Drive really helped the final spur onto the finish.

While I was struggling around the Cheshire -and Welsh- countryside* Owen (and Louisa) were doing the Mini Marathon* around the racecourse and Owen was very pleased to show me his medal at the end, even if he wouldn't pose for a picture with me. After a brief recovery we headed off for a recovery McDonald's and soft play because Owen had been so good. 

This had to be the medal photo of choice as the one before apparently had me looking annoyed/fed up.