MARATHON first-timer, Tim Cairnes, joined thousands of runners across the world to take part in the virtual London Marathon…and then some!
On what would have been the postponed date of the marathon, Sunday 4th October, 45,000 people around the world, in 109 countries, were given 24-hours to complete 26.2 miles on a course of their choosing.
But due to a technical glitch, Westbury Running Group member, Tim, went one better, running over 31 miles on a route between Bath and Bristol!
Tim has so far raised over £2,000 for Get Kids Going, a charity that inspires British disabled youngsters to compete in sporting events, from start to Paralympic level.
Tim said, “I set off from Bath in company with Colin Kirkham along the railway path to Bristol. I had been suffering from a foot injury so expected to walk the whole way, but at about 5 miles started to run because I was getting too cold walking, Colin continued separately. The weather was awful!
“The official virtual London Marathon app was only showing 12 miles by the time I got to Bristol Temple Meads but I turned back anyway. The official app cheered me over the finish line as I approached Bath Spa, by which time my Garmin watch was recording 31.24 miles – I believe my watch!”
The next London Marathon is scheduled to take place on 3rd October 2021 – and Tim’s 2020 marathon place has been deferred to next year.
“Barring injury, I will be taking part,” said Tim.
To donate and support Tim, visit the website: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/TimCairnes
