marathon nerves

[johnnyb]

What was I worried about. Someone please tell me. From the moment I got on the train at charlton and saw all the other runners my fears avaporated. I felt like I belonged. The first part of the day was not so exciting, after drinking 2ltrs of water I spent all my time at the heath Queueing for the loos,having a jimmy and then joining the queue again.
But at 9.45 my day just got better and better and better. Every step of the 26 miles I was bursting with pride, there was no longer any doubt in my mind whether I was going to finish or not. Having so many people calling out your name, telling you that you can do it you just cant help believing them. I followed the rule book and drunk half abottle of water at each station,and at ten miles I started to take my gels at every two miles. It worked for me .I fet like I could turn round and run back the other way at the end.I can honestly say if you could have that feeling that the marathon gives you everyday you would never need a woman again. Except for the ironing of course.(only joking) I even managed a sprint at the end. My time was 4hrs and 45 mins.
The best 4 hrs and 45 minutes of my entire life. Thank you El Gordo,Sweder and everyone else for all your help and advise. I first came on here in 2007 hoping to complete the 2008 marathon. An overweight unfit 44 year old with a beer belly, I think I was hoping for to much, so I passed my place over to 2009 and I finally did it.
To everyone out there who thinks Its not possible. IT IS

Many Many Many Thanks
Johnnyb