My first marathon and everyone said I'd picked one of the toughest. After missing most of last 2 months training through injury I had a plan of running first half (the easiest) and walking most of the rest, but the walking up all the hills between Fellfoot and Bowness meant I could still run the downhill and flat and I got round, helped by well-spaced drinks stations and massive support from bystanders and passing cyclists. Decided I won't do another marathon as nothing can beat this great day in the Lakes

By far and away the best road marathon in the UK and most definitely one of the most challenging of all road races available. So much so, I will be reaching 100 at this race in 2014 !

I love this race. The course is unbelievably scenic and it is on the good side of tough - plenty of downhill as well as up! Support on course is sporadic but the locals are incredibly enthusiastic about this race and come out in force near the villages and pubs. Lovely slate medal. Run to fundraise for Brathay trust so don't expect loads of freebies but who needs it when the race is so good.