Karteek's Marathon

Two basic problems were apparent before I started this race.  Firstly, I had done no training as I had spent most of the previous 6 months either in swimming pools, lakes or bits of ocean training for my English Channel swim.  Secondly, there was a serious problem with my right knee.

After a long and gruelling 5½ hours I hobbled up the grassy bank to the finish line.  Most people had already finished, been swimming in the local pool, showered and had lunch.

My only consolation came a few days later when Ashrita told me he had done a marathon in 5 hours 45 minutes.  His best friend had jokingly told him not to eat for three days.  He took it seriously and started the marathon feeling rather depleted.

Next year I shall either improve or devise such an excuse.

Karteek Clarke, Edinburgh