#Run With An Idea 6 - What's the big deal about running a marathon?

Last week social media was alive with rejection and acceptance for Virgin London Marathon 2014.   Most of those rejected were inconsolable and outraged; others were relieved and some were astounded to receive rejection packs as they couldn't remember signing up in the first place!     Those accepted were overjoyed and overwhelmed - this weeks discussion subject is 

What is the big deal about running a marathon!

I did comment that in the current situation of everyone receiving rejections this weeks subject should be sub-headed "Light the blue touch paper & run in the opposite direction".  

We also had a big marathon weekend last week - Berlin, where the fastest ever marathon was run and Loch Ness, a very popular event if Twitter is anything to go by and so is this weekend with Chester and Bournemouth to name but a few!

Running a marathon, to me, is a huge undertaking.  Hours of training, getting nutrition in the run up and on the day right and it's a flipping long way.   I've only done one half marathon and that was enough.  How anyone can run 26.2 miles is beyond me.   I have absolutely no intention of running a marathon, I'm not sure I could even walk one without stopping off at a pub for a pint!   I have numerous conversations with people about having run a half and it being time to step up to the full distance and even take it further.   Non runners do not understand the commitment it takes to run long distance, they think you run a couple of 10ks, a half marathon and then off you go - smash out a marathon in 4.5 hours!  They don't understand that you have to spend weekends running between 15 and 20 miles in the run up to an event.  

Runners are a little more understanding, if they've trained and run a marathon they will be encouraging but do back off once you get into conversation about the commitment.   Marathons are not for everyone.

So what is the fascination with marathon running.   It's obviously challenging and extremely satisfying.  Not being a marathon runner I thought I would ask my brother's opinion.   After all, he is a marathon runner now having run several Brighton, London and Loch Ness - his response was 

"The big deal about running a marathon I guess is you versus the 26.2 miles and the level of training and commitment to get to that one day, ready to run; and then on race day believing in your training and knowing it will probably hurt.   The whole  thing from day 1 to the finish line is a mixed bag of emotions from dread to elation"

I have to admit, having spectated at several Brighton Marathons it is extremely exciting to see everyone run past and the atmosphere is amazing. Readers of my blog will know I'm not the quietest of spectators, but I have been thanked on many occasions for the support I have given at a crucial part in the race.  I'm not sure whether the excitement comes from the energy pouring from the runners, or if the spectating public are just in awe of the sheer determination of those running past them! 

Of course all sporting events are a great way to raise money for charity and marathons seem to strike a chord with people who sponsor/donate. 

Why do you like running marathons?  

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