Make 3 interest-free payments. 
First marathon completed!
I did it! 26.2 miles and I completed my first marathon! What a feeling it was running over the finish line with the crowds cheering everyone on!
Start line jitters
Rewind five hours however, I was nervously waiting at my allocated pen for the race to start. I couldn’t believe the huge number of people all ready and waiting to start the marathon. The sun was shining and there were a few clouds in the sky - I don’t think we could have asked for better weather. Knowing that there wasn’t anything more I could do I managed to let myself relax slightly so I could soak up, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Race day kit
My shoes of choice were the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2s with a pair of Feetures socks. I had managed to get a few long runs in using these shoes during my training, so felt confident they wouldn’t rub or cause any blisters. These shoes have a super springy, light feel to them which is something I thought I’d appreciate at mile 20 to keep pushing through to the finish.
On top I wore the GORE® Wear Contest Daily Tee, this was actually a last-minute buy and it was exactly what I wanted. The technical fabric kept me cool and wicked away moisture to keep me feeling good for the duration of the marathon. I was really impressed with how it performed, and the fit felt comfortable throughout the race. I also had my running belt stashed full of Maurten gels which helped to keep my energy levels up throughout the race. I really like the plain taste of these gels.
The marathon course
It was great running through the city centre, the crowds covered the sides of the streets and supporters were shouting us on from their windows! The atmosphere was fantastic and the crowds kept cheering so enthusiastically for around the first 10 miles of the race. It was a great boost hearing the crowds shout everyone on! The locals really seemed to enjoy getting involved, there were lots of people outside their houses offering water and sweets to help keep the runners going. I was surprised that there always seemed to be some supporters at every stage along the route, even at the further away sections (Port Seton/Longniddry). This really kept the buzz going throughout the whole race and it helped me to push past the tough sections.
Finish line feeling
If I am honest, I still can’t believe that I did it! Running a marathon was something I didn’t think I could do. I’m so proud that I managed to accomplish this goal! It was not easy but by putting in the training and wearing the right kit I knew that I was set up well for the race. I didn’t quite reach my goal time of sub-4 hours but I’m still over the moon! It felt amazing to cross that finish line with my family, friends, and strangers clapping and cheering me on.
26.2 miles done, now on to the next challenge...
