Can I Run a Marathon?

I was recently selected to run in the London Marathon in 2009. How did I get myself into this mess?

It started last Spring. Our CEO ran the Marathon de Sables — an Ultra Marathon in Morocco. That is 6 marathons in 7 days… in the desert… carrying all your own food and water. It was grueling — so he says. I believe him.

Not long after he returned, we watched the London Marathon here in town. Down at the pub after work one evening I was discussing with my colleagues how easy the London Marathon must be compared to the ultra marathon. One thing led to another and we all decided to enter the ballot for next year. Demand is high for the 35,000 slots and the chances of being selected for the general ballot are about 20%. Not likely.

Though not impossible. I was selected along with one of my colleagues. As mentioned in the post about Mount Makarot, I have not done much in the exercise department since moving to London. And even in NC I wasn’t in shape for a marathon. I ran cross country in school which should help with the training. But that was a long time ago and there is a big difference between 3 miles and 26 miles.

I’ve started my preparation. I have good shoes, warm running gear and have collected tips from friends that ran the marathon last year. I have a formal 16 week training plan that starts in January. Until that starts, I am just trying to run a bit without stopping.

Do you think I can do it? The big day is April 26, so you have until then to place your bets.