2025 marked the 45th anniversary of The London Marathon. 10 Grantham Running Club members laced up their shoes on the start line in Greenwich, eager to take on the most iconic 26.2 mile race in the world. This year, the London Marathon set a new world record for the largest number of finishers.
All those who finished can claim their very own Guiness World Record certificate.
The day itself was unseasonably warm with temperatures over 20 degrees, which made for unfavourable running conditions. Despite this, the runners persevered around the capital and were rewarded with incredible times and achievements. The crowds, described as phenomenal and loud, certainly helped carry the runners round.
The first club member to cross the finish line on The Mall was Gavin Potter, setting a new PB of 2:44:56 in his debut at London. Peter Bonner finished in 2:59:28 despite wearing the wrong socks, causing a blister early in the race. Gavin and Peter hope to have achieved Good For Age times for next year.
Russel Whittaker finished his 3rd and final London Marathon in 3:11:55. Having decided to enjoy this one, he slowed his pace, taking in all the sights and sounds of the city.
Piers Pye-Watson started strong but decided to take the second half of the race easier, finishing in 3:37:52.
Rachel Hamilton ran her debut London Marathon in memory of her Dad, raising £725 for the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance. The electric atmosphere carried her to an impressive finish in 3:55:03
Emma Duncan’s first Marathon saw her raise £1,200 for Marie Curie. Emma loved the amazing support from the crowds which saw her cross the finish line in 4:35:00
Simon Smith put in a strong effort to finish in 4:53:18.
Kate Marshall was so pleased to have had the opportunity to run London and despite being hampered by an injured quad she finished in 5:07:35
Julie Gilbert should be known as the Queen of The London Marathon. She was taking part her in 11th and running for Young Lives Vs Cancer. Over the years, Julie has raised a staggering £60,000 for the charity. Despite the race not going quite to plan, she finished in a fantastic time of 5:38:03
Rounding out the runners from GRC was Helen Marshall in a time of 7:03:01, raising funds for Muscular Dystrophy. Helen loved her first marathon so much that she has already signed herself up for another.
Virtual London
Not wanting to miss out on the event, 2 club members took on The London Marathon “My way” running the same distance virtually.
Marj Spendlow ran it 4:32:07, raising funds for Tommy’s baby charity and Emma Hopkinson completed the distance in a time of 6:51:38