Brighton Marathon: 26.2 reasons to read this

LIKE an oasis in the desert, the “400m to go” sign appeared in the distance, and my legs, aching with fatigue, propelled me towards the finish line of the 2014 Brighton Marathon.

Sweat and cheers | Me after the 2014 Brighton Marathon. (Image | Chris King)

Then, after five months of training, 11 physiotherapist appointments, dozens of High-5 energy gels and hundreds of miles, it was over.

I walked, nay, hobbled, towards the volunteers handing out medals, one of whom hung mine around my neck, and stumbled towards a grassy verge where I lay down on my back and stared at the clear white sky, consumed by 26.2 miles of sheer exhaustion.

Three weeks to go, and I’ve run all I can

BESIDES hiring a stunt double to run the 26.2 miles for me, there is now nothing more I can do to hone my endurance skills before the 2014 Brighton Marathon.

‘Ferry far away | On my most recent long run, I made it as far as Westferry. Nope, me neither. (Image | Adrenalin Advertising)

Having completed my final long run, a particularly energy-sapping 21.3-mile slog to the faraway land of Westferry and back, my distances will get no longer until the big day itself.

Brighton fear – and why I’m running a marathon

IN precisely 38 days from now, I will be lining up for the start of the 2014 Brighton Marathon.

Hit the ground running | The 2014 Brighton Marathon, like last year’s event, will start in the city’s Preston Park. (Image | ITV)

With just three half-marathons under my belt, and no small amount of fear in my heart, I shall be pounding the pavements for 26.2 miles to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society.