On Sunday, April 27 the London Marathon took place in unseasonably high temperatures but broke the record for the greatest number of finishers, over 56,000 runners completing the 26.2 mile course of this forty-fifth annual event, many participants raising funds for charities and good causes. Back in 1981 6,255 managed the course.
Caz Hall took part this year: she lives in Northiam, near Rye, and is married to Geoff, and has one daughter, Jen, in her second year at university. She talked to Rye News about her experience.
Is this your first London Marathon?
This will be my second. I have been very ‘jammy’ to have been successful in the ballot two years in a row. I ran in 2024 raising over £1,700 for the Alzheimer’s Society in memory of my dad. This year I have supported a local children’s charity, Demelza, which cares for children and young people with serious or life-limiting conditions, and for their families, across Kent, South East London and East Sussex.
How long do you have to train for this gruelling race? Do you run with a group or on your own?
I have been training for six months under the guidance of my coach Simon Linklater. I also belong to Hastings Runners who have been so supportive and I totally recommend them to any new runners. I also run locally in Northiam with a couple of my friends Sarah and Hayley: company always makes the miles go quicker.
When did you start running?
In 2023 when I found out that I had achieved a place in the marathon via the ballot.
What benefits to your mental and physical wellbeing do you get by engaging in such activities?
I find running just relieves any stress and worries and gives you such a buzz when you finish, as well as being great for fitness.
The day after the marathon
Boy that was hard! Very hot, blisters from wet feet (used the showers a lot!) and an iffy knee. But over £1,000 raised for Demelza though, so very pleased, the pain was worth it. I am up and just about walking today with my finisher’s t-shirt on and feeling great that I completed the course and raised so much money, too.
There is a Walk to Run initiative starting on May 7 (for free) at Hastings Runners.
Image Credits: Sportograf.com , Sportsograf.com , Caz Hall , Caz Hall family archive .