"After a long and gruelling 5 ½ hours I hobbled up the grassy bank to the finish line."
Two basic problems were apparent before I started this race. Firstly, I had done no training as I had spent most of the previous 6 months either in swimming pools, lakes or bits of ocean training for my English Channel swim. Secondly, there was a serious problem with my right knee.
After a long and gruelling 5 ½ hours I hobbled up the grassy bank to the finish line. Most people had already finished, been swimming in the local pool, showered and had lunch.
My only consolation came a few days later when Ashrita told me he had done a marathon in 5 hours 45 minutes. His best friend had jokingly told him not to eat for three days. He took it seriously and started the marathon feeling rather depleted.
Next year I shall either improve or devise such an excuse.
Karteek Clarke, Edinburgh
