Race Report: Brighton Marathon by Karl Fitzpatrick

2024-04-07

Name: Karl Fitzpatrick

Race: Brighton Marathon

Favorite RNRR Session: Sunday 90

Goal Time: 4hrs - helping a friend

Finish Time: 04:06:00

Where did you stay?

London Bridge, London.

How did you get to the location/race?

Train, Sunday morning easy from LB and 55 minutes travel time.

Were you running for a cause?

Yes - Jersey Hospice on LM Sunday 21st April (miles in legs)

Why did you decide to enter this race?

Help a friend and do my last long run.

How was your training? Did you have a coach?

Injuries most of training block (torn quad)and I’ve had a training plan from coach Rich English (2022) when I first started and changed bits accordingly.

How was the race organisation beforehand?

Excellent.

Did you have a specific race strategy, and if so, did you stick to it or have to adapt during the race?

Slow and steady, hydrate little and often. Strategy was to be mindful of my injuries.

Were there any unexpected challenges you faced during the race?

???? it was red hot, so when training in winter I didn’t understand it was going to be 25 degrees,very hilly and windy.

How did you manage to overcome those challenges?

Glum shields in and dig deep.Runners dropping left and right.

What was the best bit?

Medal, T shirt and vibe.

What was the worst bit?

Heat and hills.

How were the crowds/supporters?

Outstanding, great atmosphere.

What would you do differently next time?

Suncream, sunglasses and not dress in all black.

What advice would you give other runners doing this race?

Be ready for horrible hills.

Would you recommend this race to other runners?

Brilliant race and from Jersey a very easy destination for all.

How did you celebrate completing your race?

Few beers and dinner in Gatwick Airport.

What's next?

5 days 18 hours and 3 minutes is London Marathon 2024

Any final thoughts?

I think RNRR should do a organised tour to a Brighton or similar in 2025 either early on in the season or October ish.