My Marathon Journey:

Crossing the Finish Line at the Eden Project

Raising Money For a Cause Close to My Heart

One of the main motivations behind running the Eden Project Marathon was the chance to support a cause very close to my heart. A few years ago, my older sister, Leighanne (31), was diagnosed with chronic kidney failure. This diagnosis means that she must undergo four dialysis treatments each week at her local hospital—a challenging routine that made it difficult for her to be there on race day.

Charities like Kidney Care UK provide vital support to kidney patients and their families, helping with everything from practical assistance to emotional and financial support. Kidney Care UK has been a lifeline for Leighanne, offering resources and guidance through her journey with kidney disease. Knowing the importance of their work, I was determined to give back by raising funds for the charity.

I'm incredibly proud to have raised £1,051 for Kidney Care UK—over twice my initial goal! The generous donations and heartfelt messages of support from so many kept me going, especially during those last gruelling miles. I'm deeply grateful for each donor, as every contribution will make a significant difference in the lives of people affected by kidney disease.

Breaking Down the Race: The First 20 vs. The Last 6

Upon reflection, I'd divide the race into two parts: the first 20 miles and the last 6. For the first 20 miles, I felt unstoppable. While some runners around me slowed, I dug deep, embracing the challenge of each incline and keeping a steady pace. I had trained up to 32 km, which reminded me how depleted I'd felt past the 25 km mark. To conserve energy, I planned to wait as long as possible before using the six energy gels I'd packed in my running vest.

Luckily, the support along the course was incredible. Marshals, supporters, and volunteers offered jelly beans, jelly babies, and flapjacks at regular intervals. Knowing there'd be drink stations every 3 miles, I hadn't brought any water along for the journey, so I stopped to rehydrate at each one. These small boosts helped me delay the gels until later in the race.

Fuel Strategy for the Final Stretch

Around the 30k mark, I took my first gel, bracing for the last few miles. Sticking closely to my planned pace, I knew I had enough left in the tank to get through the agonising final stretch. I'd prepared for this mentally: I knew from countless running articles, reels, and podcasts that the last six miles would be the toughest.

One vivid memory was running alongside a fellow runner who was forced to walk during a relentless hill climb. I remember telling him, "We're going to have to go to a dark place to finish." As this was a non-headphone-wearing event, there were a few moments like this, connecting with other runners and sharing the effort—a refreshing change from my usual solo training.

Some runners were surprised when I mentioned that this was my first marathon. A proud moment was keeping pace with two St Austell Running Club members and eventually overtaking them around the 22-mile mark. Marshals encouraged us by saying the last mile was all downhill, but even knowing the finish was close, those final miles felt endless.

During those last couple of miles, I remember being shocked with waves of emotion as I started to see the end in sight (the iconic Eden Project Bio Domes). The cheering was endless as I ploughed along the final stretch with the most uncomfortable stitch I'd ever experienced in my life. That being said, nothing and no one could tell me to stop, as my entire being was focused on maintaining a strong finish.

I still get goosebumps when I think back to the moment I turned the corner at the top of the hill and became recognised by the small congregation who'd come along to see me finish. Their screams, shouts, and cheers blocked out everything else as I finished strong and went over to pick up my medal.

Advice from a First-Time Marathoner

Completing this marathon taught me so much, and I'd love to share some tips that helped me reach the finish line:

• Use Runna: In my preparation for the Eden Project Marathon, I used Runna, a personalised marathon training coach, and it was a game-changer. This app added essential structure to my training, keeping me on track while balancing weekly football training and matches.
• Cut the Booze: Six weeks out, I stopped drinking, which I'd learned from research could improve recovery and aid hydration. Going six weeks sober boosted my focus and sleep quality, helping me set PBs in the final weeks leading up to race day and feel all the more prepared for the big day.
• Invest in the Right Gear: I've been running on and off for years, but I made sure I upgraded my gear for this marathon. My Shokz bone conductor headphones made road training safer, and upgrading from a Fitbit that barely worked to a Garmin Forerunner 55 was one of the best decisions I've made for my running career to date.
• Prepare for Extra Laundry: With training sessions 4-6 times a week, my washing basket was forever full. It's good to know from the get-go that Marathon training adds up.

What's Next?

After jumping from my first 10k race in spring to my first marathon this autumn, I'm now shifting focus back to the football field. However, I've already set my sights on some exciting running events around the UK in 2025 as I look to add to my medal collection. Until then, I'll enjoy wearing my new pair of Nike Pegasus 41s as I look forward to my next challenge!