VICTA and the London Marathon 2024

After watching the London Marathon over several years, either on TV or travelling up in person, there simply is nothing like it. The atmosphere is unbelievable, and I always knew that I would he capable of taking part myself one day. Having gone to watch it in 2023, I decided there and then that I was determined to run in 2024.

After entering the ballot and trying the 2nd entry option too, unfortunately I was unsuccessful. From this moment, I decided to try for a charity place, and again unfortunately this was unsuccessful, however I had been added to the waiting list. Fast forward to December 2023, and I received an email and telephone call to advise I could have a spot. I couldn’t believe my luck and jumped at the chance to accept and get started with my training.

How was training as part of #TEAMVICTA?

In terms of my running experience, I had played football and various sports for most of my early life and it was only once finishing my short football career that I decided to take up running. Prior to the London Marathon, my only other long-distance run was a half marathon in 2023 and so this gave me a solid base to build upon for getting miles under my belt for this challenge. I found a training plan which worked around my work/life balance and kept to it.

Having had regular contact from VICTA I began my fundraising journey, and I am pleased to advise that I managed to beat the target set, and raise awareness for this great charity. They provided training guides, webinars, and a weekly round up of other runners and their story, which helps to see how others are finding it, and take on any advice that you can use on the day.

As for the day itself, it was everything I imagined and better, the support you receive from the crowds and other runners is amazing, and it really does get you through the part of the race that everyone dreads, but by keeping focus and remembering why you are doing this, you will succeed. The VICTA cheering station on the final straight was amazing and gave me that last final push. After the race we went to the post event party, which was amazing and allowed me to get a much needed massage, and get some food and drink on board. The other VICTA runners that I spoke to post and during the event were all very supportive, as where the staff through the day.

What advice would you give to someone taking on the London Marathon?

I would recommend running for VICTA, and can honestly say this was one of the most life changing experiences I have had.

By Matt Maynard