09 May 2025
We caught up with one of our amazing supporters, Gaynor, after her incredible London Marathon challenge!
She shared what it was like running in the heat, the emotional highs of passing iconic London landmarks, and how the amazing crowd kept her going through the toughest miles. From the starting line in Greenwich to the final sprint along The Mall, Gaynor soaked in every moment - all while raising an incredible £3,371 for Hamelin.
A huge thank you to Gaynor and everyone who donated, you’re all Hamelin heroes!
Here's what she had to say:
"The sun was already shining brightly as I stood at the starting point in Greenwich for the London Marathon. The weather forecast had predicted a warm day, with temperatures reaching 22°C (72°F).
It was a beautiful morning, and the excitement in the air was tangible.
I found a spot to sit and relax while waiting for my wave to start. The anticipation built as I watched other runners prepare, some stretching, others chatting nervously. Finally, at 10:05am, my wave was called to the starting line. It took a bit of time for everyone to get moving, and I eventually crossed the starting line at 10:23am.
As the starting horn sounded, I felt a surge of adrenaline. The first few miles were exhilarating. By mile 4, I decided that today wasn't a day to chase a personal record. The heat was intense, and I knew that pushing too hard could lead to trouble. Instead, I chose to soak in the experience and enjoy the journey. I slowed my pace, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The camaraderie among the runners was evident; everyone was in this together, battling the same warm conditions.
As I continued running, I passed some of London's most iconic landmarks. When I reached Tower Bridge, the cheering crowds were especially loud and supportive. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and the deafening cheers gave me a much-needed boost. I made sure to grab water at every hydration station, splashing some on my neck and head to cool down. Volunteers lined the streets, offering encouragement and refreshments. I high-fived children, smiled at the cheering crowds, and even exchanged a few words with fellow runners.
Around mile 18, the race started to get tough. My legs felt heavy, and the heat was taking its toll. Like many other runners, I decided to walk for a bit when it got tough. When it got tough, I thought about Hamelin, the people the charity supports, and the reason I was running. This spurred me on and kept me going. It was a chance to catch my breath, hydrate, and gather my strength for the remaining miles. At mile 19, I met my husband, which gave me a wonderful emotional lift.
As I approached Parliament Square, I missed my family cheering me on due to being so focused on getting to the finish line and the noise from all the supporters, which was quite incredible.
The final stretch along The Mall was both the hardest and the most rewarding part of the race. The sight of Buckingham Palace in the distance gave me a renewed burst of energy. I pushed through the pain, my heart pounding. As I crossed the finish line, a wave of relief and triumph washed over me.
I had done it. I had completed the London Marathon on a warm, sunny day. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. I collected my medal, took a few moments to catch my breath, and then joined the other finishers in celebrating this incredible achievement.
Despite the challenging conditions, the race had been an unforgettable experience. The support from the spectators, the camaraderie among the runners, and the sheer determination it took to finish made it a day I will always remember."