Running for something bigger: Team CFCS takes on the London Marathon

The experience running for you was great and you provided lots of support throughout the journey. Throughout the marathon the crowd were incredible and no race I have ever done can compare to it. When I crossed the finish line, I was still in disbelief I’d been there and completed the marathon, it felt quite surreal.

Running the London Marathon was absolutely incredible – an unforgettable rush of energy, emotion, and purpose from start to finish! The atmosphere was electric, with cheering crowds lifting every step and making the whole experience feel truly magical. Taking part for a charity supporting civil servants made it even more special, knowing every mile was helping people who dedicate their lives to serving others. Crossing the finish line was pure exhilaration – an overwhelming sense of pride, joy, and achievement that I’ll carry with me forever!

I was honoured to run on behalf of the charity, raising awareness of the vital work it does and knowing I’d be helping so many fellow Civil Servants. Hitting the fundraising goal felt like a triumph in itself, and I am so grateful to everyone who donated, supported and encouraged my journey, but especially my family. The regular updates, guidance and tips from Char throughout the months really helped, and I’ll continue to use the Myrtl routine as my pre-run warm up.

Crossing the finish line was an emotional rollercoaster. It was a culmination of exhilaration, the physical pain of running and the release of months of training, logistical preparation and pre-race nerves. Feeling overwhelmed by the enormity and energy of the crowds and hearing so many stories of heartbreak and hope, along with a genuine outpouring of love compassion and empathy across the city, made it truly special.

Whilst every entrant ran for different reasons, I felt part of something bigger, and united in this one moment.

A marathon is, in all honesty, a brutal distance, and my London Marathon did not go to plan. From early on, I knew it would be a test of resilience over pace, but thankfully, the atmosphere carried me through. The crowd support was constant, uplifting, and, at times, overwhelming.

Running through London is like nowhere else. I was able to link together parts of the city I’ve visited before but in a completely new way. Passing my hotel, not once, but twice, and resisting the temptation to stop for a quick beer took a surprising amount of determination.

Crossing the finish line was incredibly emotional. Despite the challenges, it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m truly grateful to have been able to do it. As a former civil servant, it also meant a great deal to support my wife, a current civil servant, in her fundraising efforts for the Charity for Civil Servants.