Emma Finch

I did it. I ran the London Marathon. A quick-stop tour of the capital in just four hours, two minutes and 50 seconds.

Firstly, thank you so much for your support. I crossed each timing mat well aware that Liberty’s supporters were keeping tabs on my progress, and it really did spur me on. And getting over that finishing line unleashed a whirlwind of emotions – elation, exhaustion and a tinge of dizzying sickness. For the first time in my life I had nothing to say.

This is it – go time. Today I’ll be running in the London Marathon.

I don’t really know how to feel about this. I’m not nervous. I’m not really excited. I just need to turn up and run, I suppose. But I couldn’t sleep last night.

Maybe I’m worried about the sheer effort of it all, or not getting my target time. Maybe that sixth bagel was five too many. Or maybe it’s because I stayed at a friend’s place last night for convenience and was put off by the change of surroundings. Either way, it’s finally here.

Have you ever felt completely weighed down by the hopes and dreams of others? To the point where you’re doing your best to move forward, but you can’t shake those nagging voices holding you back?

I thought this was happening to me last week on the south bank of the Thames. I was struggling to put one foot in front of the other, until I realised I was literally dragging five horrified child-tourists along the ground by a rope.

It’s funny how things work out. Two weeks ago I was lamenting my bad back, feeling sorry for myself and petrified I was letting everyone down.

But today, I write as Emma Finch: World Championships Runner-up. Erm along with 16,000 others. But quickly moving on...

Remember how a few weeks ago I was saying I didn’t think about running anymore and it just happens?

Two weeks ago, I shared an update about my marathon training and asked for your support. Including gift aid, we've now raised £7,568.75! I have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and support you’ve all shown me – not just in helping me to reach my fundraising target, but also all the lovely messages you’ve sent too.

I nearly fell over last night. It had been a good day until the pavement suddenly shifted beneath me. Rhythm shot, balance failing, I was going over. My life flashed before my eyes – all the pain, the tiredness, more kale than any person should ever have to eat. Twelve miles from home I’d have to catch the night bus back with a bloody nose. How humiliating.

But just as all seemed lost, those handy reflexes kicked in, my legs readjusted, and I stumbled back to form. No time to dwell on it; I know it’ll get much worse. This is my life now – Emma Finch: marathon trainee.