Amelia’s Marathon Story for CBM UK

Next up is Amelia, the second in our series, who completed the marathon in an amazing 4:20:01!

What was your official finish time?

My official finish time was 4:20:01. I was really pleased with this, as I had struggled with an injury with my knees for the 6 weeks before, so hadn’t been getting in the miles I wanted. I maintained a fairly consistent pace and felt that I managed it all well on the day!

How did it feel crossing the finish line knowing you ran for CBM UK?

I was absolutely thrilled to be running for CBM UK and supporting such a wonderful charity to gain more publicity and support. I have been so well supported by the team over the last few months that it just felt even more amazing to be finally achieving the goal that so many people had put their trust in me for.

What was the toughest part for you, physically or mentally? And how did you get through it?

Around mile 22, I was really struggling with some pain in my knees from the injury and was looking out for my friends and family who were there to support me. They gave me the encouragement to carry on and push through the final few miles.

I also ran past/with some really fabulous people carrying weights and wearing fancy dress, which really helped me to put my own struggles into perspective.

What was your standout moment of the day?

Generally, overall, I absolutely loved the race. Running over Tower Bridge was a huge highlight, and seeing the family’s Big Ben and the Mall at the end was just fantastic. There was so much support all the way round, and I can’t fully explain the buzz I got from the whole experience. Being part of a record-breaking event, seeing world records broken and knowing that I was there – just indescribable!

How did race day compare with your training, anything that surprised you?

Race day was HOT. It was very different from training through the winter, where I’d been battling wind and rain. I personally love the sun and so was very pleased to enjoy the weather, but it did make things more challenging on the day.

How did donations and messages of support affect your motivation on the day?

I have had so many generous donations from friends, family and strangers, all keen to support me and CBM UK. I really wanted to make sure that I did everyone proud after they put their trust in me to complete it. I also had some very special messages of support before and after the race, so I wanted to make sure I fulfilled what I set out to do!

Looking back, would you do anything differently, either in training or on the day itself?

I don’t think there’s anything I could do differently, as I was doing all the right things in training and adding in strength exercises, cross-training and practicing my fueling – I was a little unlucky with my injury, but considering all of that, it just makes me more proud of the achievement.

What advice would you give someone running their first charity marathon?

Definitely ask for support if you need it. I can’t thank the team at CBM UK enough for all of their advice and support. It’s been fantastic to be part of the wonderful team for so many months.

Also, make sure not to worry too much about what other people are doing in their training. I personally can’t stomach gels or running-specific energy boosts, so I had to find what worked for me (roast potatoes and fizzy strawberry laces)!

We have charity spaces available for the 2027 London Marathon to support people with disabilities in some of the world’s poorest places. Sign up to register your interest and be part of something bigger.