IWRR Superstar runner Ross Wilkes was in the US last week to tackle the most sought after marathon in the world. He kindly contribute this account of his day…
“The race was made in 1897 making it the oldest annually held marathon. It was created the year following the revival of the modern Olympic games. The course generally hasn’t changed with the start point way outside the city in the small town of Hopkington and a fairly flat course the first 16 miles before the hills of the Newton area crop up, with the biggest being the iconic ‘Heartbreak Hill’.
The crowds were insane, the biggest and loudest I’ve ever seen even in the more rural areas outside the city.
Weather was decent, overcast with the odd shower which I much preferred over the hot and humid climate we’d had the week before.
Pacewise I aimed to sit just under sub 3 for as long as I could, I knew the later miles would be a struggle so would’ve been happy with over 3 hours but figured it would be worth a go!
I still felt strong the final few miles even on the inclines and it became apparent I could stick with the faster pace and even push for a PB. I still believe the Marathon distance has a degree of luck to it and you never know if all the pieces of the puzzle are gonna be there on raceday but I’m very grateful it all worked out on such a event. Was really special to be part of a race with such a history.”
Very well done Ross, he clocked an awesome time of 2:57:13, setting an impressive marathon PB on the biggest stage of all.
