5 Questions with George Evans – Running the London Marathon
- Having already run a marathon, did the enormity of it being, the London Marathon make it more of a mindset challenge?
I’d only run a trail marathon before which was very different – slower pace and a lot quieter. The mindset challenge at London was more about speed and finding out how fast I could go over this distance. The crowds in London were incredible and really helped carry me along. Plus with no stiles, fences, or plowed fields in the way it was possible to build and maintain much more speed.
- Do you have to adopt any certain mindset techniques when running long distances?
For me its about clearing my mind apart from a focus on efficient running technique and the people around me. The thing I love most about running events is a feeling of being totally present in the moment. Future & past stresses and strains seem to disappear. Plus there’s always someone in front to chase after.
- Previous marathon runners always talk about the atmosphere – Did it get a bit much over 26 miles, especially if you are used to running in your own headspace – how was it for you?
An incredible experience and never got too much. Even in the last 3 miles when I was really worried about “hitting the wall” with legs cramping and saying please no more. The crowd helped me over the line.
- Would you do it again, or is the New York Marathon in your sights?
Absolutely! I had entered London as a one-off bucket list event but I am definitely hooked. The experience of the event and sense of satisfaction finishing were incredible. I think I may have earned a “good for age” place in next year’s London marathon so I’m definitely tempted to keep going.
- Did you experience anything that you hadn’t considered you would?
Getting carried away at the start and going faster than I planned…but it seemed to work. Plus the cramps in the last few miles and post-marathon stiffness/pains. I was expecting these but admit they’re more severe than I bargained for.
