Bombay Jan 2006

[El Gordo]

The Darjeeling toy train is an absolute joy, and it wouldn't be just young Jath giggling and whooping as it winds its way up the mountain. My 10 days in DJ were bizarre and memorable. One day, I will tell you the story of my fling with the French Ambassador's wife, and my abortive attempt to attend a dinner party inside Darjeeling Jail. It's a wonderful town. I have more memories per hour for Darjeeling than I have for any other place in that 5 month trip to India and Nepal. Don't get me started.

Getting back to the Bombay Marathon, I think a real tough problem to confront is the climate. You mention having 3 weeks or so in India beforehand, though of course all your 'useful' running training will have happened before then. It might be an idea to get along to your local gym in Yorkshire during a quiet period and do a few long runs on a treadmill. More useful than pounding along a freezing track by Top Withens.

But to be honest, I think whatever you do at this stage is likely to be not quite enough. Which isn't really a problem. Just means that the final 5 or 10 miles migh be a bit of a struggle. I think it's your first marathon, so I'd advise what I advise for all first marathoners - just aim to finish the race. Don't worry about time targets because if you've not been that distance before you've no idea what target is realistic. It will only impose unnecessary stress. Just get round, that's all you need to think about.

We'll give you more help and support nearer the time, as long as you keep us informed of where you are and what you're doing. I'd love to hear about it, and I'm sure that the others would too.

Cheers

Andy