The sub 3.30 marathon thread

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Apr 2023
3:43pm, 18 Apr 2023
20,843 posts
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larkim
I like variation, definitely. I was even surprised to see something in the TCS London event guide which pointed out that if you train on rolling hills be prepared for a tough day in London as it is relentlessly flat. All that said though, I did Manchester last year and the flatness didn't ruin me, even though I trained on more undulating roads.

So objectively I am faster on the flat. But psychologically I like undulation.
Apr 2023
7:58am, 21 Apr 2023
2,368 posts
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SailorSteve
I’ve been mentoring a pal for London on Sunday. We’ve seen lots of suggestions regarding a strategy to deal with a wet race day wrt shoes/socks pre race.

I appreciate that there are about as many views on the “right” thing to do as there are runners!

So, fwiw, just for info/interest, I outline my advice to him below………

For any marathon pre-start that involves travelling and/or waiting in the rain or on wet grass:

My preference:-
If weather is really bad:
1. Plastic bags over socks, inside shoes = wet shoes but warm dry feet.
+
2. Bin liner to stand on = warmer feet; drier shoes.
3. Remove plastic bags just before entering start pen.

Alternatives…
Q: Plastic bags over shoes?
A:
The bottoms shred pretty quickly.
Your race socks will probably still get soaked so your feet will still get cold.

Q: Spare shoes to throw away then put on race shoes?
A:

Your socks will already be soaked so your feet will still get cold.

Q: Spare socks to throw away then put on race socks?
A:
You’ll have to change socks before you go to the starting pen.
Your feet will already be wet and cold.
Your race socks will probably still get soaked so your feet will still get cold.

Q: spare shoes and socks to put in your drop bag?
A:
Potentially you will have wet gear in your drop bag.
You’ll have to change shoes/socks to drop your bag before you go to the starting pen.
Your race socks will probably still get soaked so your feet will still get cold.
Apr 2023
10:37am, 21 Apr 2023
7,641 posts
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Pothunter
Worth adding that you need to get your drop bag on the lorries in good time. There is a “late” lorry but that could impact your collection at the end. The lorries also tend to be a little way away from the start pens so take that into account.

A dry pair of shoes and socks in your drop bag for afterwards is something I’d recommend.

There will be plenty of collection points for discarded jumpers etc. you can keep a layer on until your wave actually starts moving towards the start. Marshals will keep you moving though so don’t stop to disrobe.
Apr 2023
1:15pm, 23 Apr 2023
2,922 posts
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tipsku
Just a brief sign of life: I did it! 3:29:36, half in 1:44:47, second half in 1:44:49, perfectly paced race. I'll blog about it later.
Apr 2023
1:20pm, 23 Apr 2023
472 posts
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Solo
Thank you for letting us know tipsku. So very well deserved and really happy for you. Inspiring stuff!!
Apr 2023
1:24pm, 23 Apr 2023
2,581 posts
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Bowman 🇸🇪
Really impressive tipsku!
Perfectly even halves! stellar pacing!
Apr 2023
2:01pm, 23 Apr 2023
4,759 posts
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Dillthedog
Wow tipsku what a perfect race! Huge congratulations, you are amazing
Apr 2023
2:05pm, 23 Apr 2023
8,836 posts
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Fenland Flier
Fantastic pacing tipsku, excellent well deserved result, well done.
Apr 2023
2:11pm, 23 Apr 2023
4,760 posts
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Dillthedog
Congratulations to clare1976 as well, awesome run!
Apr 2023
2:27pm, 23 Apr 2023
102,627 posts
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Hanneke
Fabulous Tipsku! Amazing race, so well paced.

About This Thread

Pop a message in the thread with an upcoming attempt and I'll add you to the side bar :)

2025 Sub 3:30 Attempts:

April 13th - Rotterdam, Netherlands - Hills of Death (HOD)
April 13th - Christchurch, New Zealand - Mark J
April 27th - London - Aurburnette
April 27th - London - SailorSteve
April 27th - London - Solo
Oct 12th - Chicago, USA - Mark J
Oct 19th - York - Riggys99

-----------------------
2024 Hall of Fame:

SailorSteve - London - 3:17:08 & Edinburgh - 03:24:09
auburnette - London - 3:28:47 & Valencia - 3:20:50
Tipsku - Leipzig, Germany - 3:27:26
Mark J - Christchurch, NZ - 3:12:24
MissingPhoenix - Chester - 03:28:40

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