Amid the dozens of Powys runners who competed in the 2024 London Marathon, several more have shared stories of their 26-mile run.
As over 50,000 people took part in the iconic footrace on April 21, several runners from Powys descended on the 26-mile long route, some for the first time.
After speaking to a few runners, here is another batch of people from Powys who ventured to one of the UK’s largest sporting events for an unforgettable experience.
Among the thousands of runners were a group of women from Newtown, as Sue Caroll, Keri Green, Caroline Orrells, Rachel Butler and Sharon Lloyd completed the race, with a few even in fancy dress while doing it.
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Commenting after the race, Sue Carroll said: “A day of fun, London was fantastic and I’ve never known the crowds to be as loud. We went out to party afterwards and while we did not have the finishing times planned at the start of the training, I’m more than happy with my time of 4 hours and 33 minutes.”
Several members of the Builth and District Running Club hit the London streets for the race, including club chairman Haydn O’Reilly, who made the 2024 London event his debut marathon and finished 3 hours and 24 minutes.
He said: “The support has been insane. And I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience.”
Other club members running the event included Justin Baird-Murray finishing after 2 hours and 57 minutes, Josh Price who crossed the line at 3 hours and 59 minutes, Judy Baird-Murray completing the race in 4 hours and 28 minutes, Adam Johnstone with a time of 5 hours and Wendy Cole after 5 hours and 9 minutes.
Adam Johnstone said: “Phenomenal crowds today that were so supportive from start to finish. Very glad it’s over and that I finished as predicted in around 5 hours.”
Newtown resident Carl Philips was also taking part in the race, crossing the finish line with a time of 2 hours and 54 minutes.
Describing the event, he said he was “over the moon”, adding: “It's been a tough, tough few months but the hard work paid off.”
Another runner who did Powys proud was Steffi Lakes from Llansilin, who completed her first London Marathon in five hours and 42 minutes. She described the iconic marathon as "the most amazing day".
"The crowds made it magical with the steel drum bands, street parties and kindness from strangers," she said.
"It’s hard to describe what it is like running a marathon this being my first.
"I loved it but I still had to battle through the last six miles after feeling strong until mile 20.
"I had a boost from my parents, partner and little girl at mile 18 which definitely helped.
"If you get the chance to run it, do!"
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