I've run my first marathon 2 weeks ago in London.
Only started running in November 2015 and done 5 half marathons last year so I thought I'm ready to step up my game.

Went to the expo on the Wednesday around mid day. Not many people around and managed to collect my race pack in like 2 mins.
Expo had loads and loads of stands and shopping / freebie opportunities.
Also don't forget the " fundraising lounge " at the end , I've managed to win some money for my charity.

Race day was really well organised. Took the underground to Cannon Street and from then the train. I was able to use both of them for free just neeeded to show up my race bib.
The train was a bit packed but when thousands of people travelling to the same place you can expect that.

I was starting from the Red start so had to walk about 20 mins from the train station to Greenwich park. All very well signed and marshalls everywhere.

Only people with Red racebibs were able to go into the start. So friends and family had to leave.

I've got there around half 8 and managed to hand in my race pack in a few minutes time , not much queuing at all.

But the loo queues were really long , I think it took me around 15 mins probalby to get into the toilet. So don't forget to prepar for that.

After that I was off to my start zone " pen 9 ". My estimated finish time was 6hrs so I've got place in the last pen.

Race started officially at 10 am but it took me 33 minutes to cross the start line. Make sure you bring with you a " chuck away jumper " because waiting around will be cold.

Loads of entertainment around the course , water and lucozade stations everywhere. Also the ambulances were out handing out paracetamols and Vaseline for the chafing body parts.

Crossing the tower bridge was awesome I don't think I ever going go forget that.
When we turned on to the highway mile 12-14 roughly that was a bit soul destroying because the other side of the road I was able to see the faster runners passing mile 22.

Isle of dogs are a bit quiet not much going on so I really needed to piusj myself there.

Seeing the London eye on the other side of the river and then finally Big Ben it made me cry. Because I knew I was really close to the finish line.

Seeing the 385 yard to go sign and the Buckingham palace was an other unforgettable experience.

When I crossed the finish I burst into tears and hugged the medal Marshall there.
Had a few photos taken then walked to the baggage lorry. Other marshalls were already waiting for us with our own bags so no waiting around needed.

After that I Walked to the meeting point , and I've arrange to meet with my family under " W "

It was a totally awesome first marathon , not much hills at all. Highly recommended it to everybody :)