Where did you stay?

Leonardo Hotel (formerly Jury’s Inn) as it is opposite the train station and close to the start of the marathon 

How did you get to the location/race?

We flew on EasyJet to Gatwick and got the train to Brighton. We did the Preston Park Parkrun on the Saturday as the marathon started in the same place, it was good to get our bearings.

Were you running for a cause?

Yes, for Jersey Stroke Support. I had a stroke in August 2022. I never thought I would run again as I was paralysed on the right side of my body after my stroke. Some 20 months later, after significant surgery (thromectomy and PFO closure), I ran the Brighton Marathon and put in a PB.

Why did you decide to enter this race?

It’s a big and well supported marathon, easy to get to and there is no ballot!

How was your training? Did you have a coach?

I was coached by Rik De Louche. The training was good despite some miserable weather. Some days I struggled mentally and physically when the training increased as I suffered from neurofatigue and insomnia, two common problems after a stroke. I only missed a couple of sessions and the result on the day was worth it. I ran the race with Emily and she ran with me on all of the longer training runs.

How was the race organisation beforehand?

Really good. We had weekly emails with tips and training suggestions and they advised us of the train strikes. Signs for the start were out a couple of days before and bag drop and collection was easy. Loads of toilets at the start of the marathon and when we entered the pen we moved quickly to the start.

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

Don’t go out too hard and build into it. I had a gel or chew every 30 minutes and also sipped my water with Precision Hydration tablets regularly (I sweat a lot and I also lose a lot of sodium. Cramp central in the past!) My fluid intake and nutrition was pretty perfect although I finished my water bottles after 21miles and had to pick up a bottle of water on one of the aid stations. It was very interesting how I got a PH tablet into a Buxton water bottle when running, when I opened it up it sprayed all over me ha ha!

Were there any unexpected challenges you faced during the race?

I was pretty comfortable all the way round. It was windy and that’s fine when you train in Jersey in the winter months, but it was also hot which was unexpected. Emily struggled at times and I wanted to keep her going and gave her some words of support.

How did you manage to overcome those challenges?

My hydration was good so no problem there, however I should have taken a hat and some sunglasses as i caught the sun on my bald head!

What was the best bit?

Running through the crowds, they were so noisy, and crossing the finishing line. 20 months ago a marathon was out of the question. Oh and Paula Radcliffe handed out our medals!

What was the worst bit?

Miles 9 to 13, they have undulating hills and the crowds thinned out. After that we were back in the noise of Brighton.

How were the crowds/supporters?

Amazing, there were times when there we no barriers and the crowds were very close and noisy, it was like we were in Tour de France! I had my name on my Jersey Stroke Support T-shirt and I had a lot of cheers along the way.

What would you do differently next time?

Take a hat and sunglasses if the sun was out and have a buff on my arm (I had one but when I donated my hoodie to the charity bucket at the start I donated my buff as well without knowing!)

What advice would you give other runners doing this race?

The support is incredible, it’s very well organised and Brighton has loads of pubs, cafes and restaurants to cater for anyone. It’s so easy to get to from Jersey

Would you recommend this race to other runners?

Yes definitely. There is also 10k on the same day and a park run and mile race the day before.

How did you celebrate completing your race?

A flapjack, a few beers and a massive Sunday lunch!

What's next?

I don’t know, but there is always something!

Any final thoughts?

I really enjoyed the race, the support was incredible and I am pleased I finished it!