Ever wondered what it’s like to run 26.2 miles in the London Marathon? Well here’s your chance to find out from several members of Letchworth-based charity Herts MS Therapy Centre’s team that took part in the 2024 event…
Masuma Ahmed’s brilliant experience
“It was an absolutely brilliant experience! I went in with an equal amount of trepidation and as I did confidence. Although I didn’t quite hit my target time, I am pleased to have completed the course and raised money for such a worthy cause. At any rate, this being my first, and possibly last marathon, a personal best was guaranteed and I managed to complete the course in 5 hours, 32 minutes.”
Photo: Masuma taking advantage of a photo opportunity.
Truly epic for Paul Durrant
“The conditions were fantastic with the crowd supporting runners every step of the way, offering sweets, bananas and orange slices. The hydration stops were plentiful, music and entertainment on many street corners – DJs, brass bands, gospel choirs and even drag queens!
“I am so happy that I managed to to get a sub 4 hours finishing time of 3 hours, 58 minutes, running steady all the way, soaking up the cheers and screams from the crowd.
“For anyone thinking of running the London Marathon, you should! You will love it. I ran my first one 28 years ago in 4 hours and 28 years later I finished in a similar time!”
Perfect weather for Darren Winter
“Needless to say, Paul Durrant, David Lewis and myself had an amazing day, never to be forgotten. Many thanks to Herts MS Therapy Centre for that.
“Unfortunately David and I were unable to run together on this occasion due to different travelling arrangements, but David, aka Mr Marathon, maintained a steady pace all the way through his run enabling him to finish in a time of just under 4 hours.
“The dry, cool and overcast weather was perfect for running the iconic London route and the crowd were inspirational. The whole route was lined with spectators cheering, screaming and encouraging.
“As I crossed the finishing line I saw fellow south coast runner Russ Cooke, who had recently run across the African continent. He was being interviewed on the big screen after finishing the run.”
Photo: Otherwise engaged – Darren Winter (left) and Paul Durrant must have forgotten their mobile phones!
Non-stop fun!
“This was my first marathon and I had an amazing day. I’m pleased to be able to report I managed to run the course without stopping in 5 hours, 9 minutes. Only slightly put to shame by my 69 year-old uncle David finishing in 4 hours!”
Tom Lewis
Party time for Chris Knapp
“Such a fantastic event, I recommend everyone should do it! It isn’t a race it’s a party and the good weather helped. I was taking part in my first marathon and took 5 hours, 17 minutes. I wish I was a little bit slower so I could have taken more photos and did more high-fives!”
Photo: Chris Knapp at the finish line
Nicky’s still buzzing
“Despite the lack of training due to my father being unwell and then fasting during the month of Ramadan, I managed to complete my first marathon. I am still buzzing from the experience and itching to sign up for the next one.
“I really enjoyed the day, the crowd were amazing and kept me going. They were so great I didn’t ‘hit the wall’ and crossed the finish line with pride. It was a special moment made even better knowing I had raised money for Herts MS Therapy Centre.
“Thanks to all my supporters who had to endure me going on about the run for the last few months. I want to let them know I’m wearing my winner’s medal with pride!”
Photo: Nicky Ali training
Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre is a Letchworth-based charity that has been providing Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for the past 36 years. It’s a complementary therapy that can help some people with a wide range of conditions, including MS, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, ME, fibromyalgia, sleep apnoea, leg ulcers and soft tissue injuries. It has also helped people recover from Long Covid.
Are you keen to run the London Marathon in 2025? We have limited places available and the team is growing! Our latest team member for next year’s event is Alexandra Westley. For more information about running for Team HMSTC, contact Paul on 07973 237162 or presstige39@gmail.com.