So here is the proper update I threatened to bore you with last week but have only just sobered up enough to be bothered writing. In terms of the course – amazing place, people and atmosphere. Undoubtedly the best (and bloody hardest!) marathon I’ve ran. In terms of race experience – for once didn’t quite go according to plan. Went out far too fast over the first half, and paid the price when I hit the bridges in the second half. Proper struggle to maintain a pace which would deliver a PB but somehow managed to grit my teeth and hang on over the last few miles. Earphones malfunctioned at mile 10 as well so left without my usual selection of inspirational tunes. The noise of the crowd more than made up for it.

In terms of the numbers – 3.24.30 finish time (PB by 1 min 25 secs)

7.48 average mile paceHalf marathon split – 1.40.00, 1.44:30

3,094 out of 49,617 finishers (Top 6.25% against an original target of top 10%)

There was only ever going to be one person I would dedicate this race to. Massive thanks to Jacqueline. Her support over the course of the last few years while I’ve been doing this challenge has been nothing short of incredible. With me every step of the way, and somehow always managing to keep one of the most highly strung people on the planet calm on race day (You need to be there to understand how much of a task that is). One of the worst things about this race was the fact she couldn’t come to see me off at Staten Island. The thought of seeing her at the end draped in a Saltire more than made up for it, and is what drove me on throughout. Genuinely couldn’t ask for a more supportive and encouraging girlfriend. Love you beautiful x

Huge thanks to everyone else who has supported me over the course of the challenge as well, whether it be through words of encouragement or sponsorship. Current overall total raised sitting at £3670 including Gift Aid for 4 different charities (Oxfam, The Scottish Association for Mental Health, Cancer Research UK and ChildReach International). Can’t thank people enough for their generosity. It’s this that makes the difference, I’m just doing something I love. Hard to believe I’ve taken over 1 hr 20 minutes off my time since that scorching hot day back in Edinburgh in 2012. What a journey it has been….Cheers!