Brighton Marathon, 6 Apr 2025

Brighton Marathon was one epic and fantastic day! I had a time in mind (sub 4 hours), but remained cautious about achieving this, given the beast of emotions the marathon can throw at you! The morning started off perfect, with the weather being superb – blue sky, sun shining and gentle wind - my kind of weather!

The walk to Preston Park was quiet, even though there were hundreds of participants heading to the park as well, the atmosphere was quiet, tense and every one of us with our own thoughts mulling in our head. However Preston Park soon changed that and before I knew it I was in my wave and heading across the start line. The crowds and support was just amazing – every street around town and along the seafront was lined with spectators supporting family, friends and loved, providing the most uplifting encouragement.

Throughout each mile, I was constantly checking in with myself and keeping an eye on the all important pace and reminding myself not to set off too fast, and hold some reserve for those all important critical miles from 20-26, when it starts to get tough. I also made the choice of not running with a pacing group as I didn’t want the additional stress of keeping up with them, so I made the decision to go alone and pace myself.

I soon settled into a pace and rhythm focusing on the sub 4 goal. The sun was out in full swing and it was gradually getting hotter, so I was consciously taking on more water and electrolytes, as I could see those around me starting to struggle and cramp from just over the half way mark.

As the miles passed, I was still checking in with myself - I felt good, the pace was comfortable and the crowds were amazing encouragement. Throughout the course there were several mile points where I planned to meet friends and loved ones – which by mile 20 was a welcomed highlight and so good to see familiar faces and provide that all important boost😊

By mile 22, I could start to feel my quads were getting niggly, so I pulled it back a little, as I didn’t want to cramp – I was also mentally working out the time / pace so that I could still achieve that all important sub 4 goal. I soon crossed the 40km point, with just 2km to go, I knew that providing I stayed sensible, that sub 4 was mine – the crowds along the finishing section was amazing – I was flying along and crossed that finish line in 3:57 – I honestly could not believe what I had done – something I thought was very out of reach! I’m still glowing from the marathon – it really was amazing and certainly one event weekend I will never forget and stay very close to my heart.

Cressida Soygazi