London Marathon

On what has been reported as the hottest London Marathon on record more than 40,000 runners completed the prestigious event. Amongst that number were three of West Bromwich Harriers finest.

The race was won by Kenyan Kipchoge in  2:04:17 with Sir Mo Farah breaking the UK record. Given the heat there were few other records in the making from the Harriers but three solid performances non the less.

First West Bromwich Harrier home in 3:27 was Garry Howell who not only took on the marathon challenge in his stride but also set his sights on raising money for a worthy cause “Oscars Journey ” where at the time of writing he has blown his target by raising over £1,000. Garry passes his thanks on to all who have sponsored him and has “blisters on his blisters” following the event.

Dominic Ashton was not far behind finishing in the heat with a time of 3:42; later in the day Dom stated “well that destroyed me! not the time Id hope for but glad to get around without throwing up or collapsing”. That quote alone highlights how tough a marathon is, especially on a hot day.

Paul Mansell marked a return to marathon running after 3 years away from the distance by running at a consistent pace through out the race and crossed the line in 4:17.

All three runners can be proud of their performances, the conditions were brutal and no doubt contributed to a death on the day – Well done, limp around with a smile on your face.

Photos to follow.