On the 23rd of April, Emily Giardina (one of Thanet's original joining members) joined the 48,000 runners to complete the London marathon 2023.
Despite Emilys earlier athletics training as a heptathlete, she had made the switch earlier last year to increase mileage in the hope to complete the 2023 London marathon.
"I haven't got much experience as a longer mileage runner and until I began my 16-week block of training I had never competed in more than 3 road races with proper training. Going into the 16 week block of training was definitely a change but I enjoyed every minute of my journey"
In the lead up the the marathon, Em raced in both the Deal half marathon and the Lydd 20 mile where she achieved new PBs in both.
Emily started the marathon at 10:35 in wave 5 starting in Greenwich park. Supported by friends, family and fellow coaches and athletes of the club, Em achieved a new PB in her half marathon and completed the marathon in a time of 4:31:45.
"I was absolutely astounded, I went into the race with minimal expectations on time and with the goal to take in the atmosphere and enjoy the 26.2 mile victory lap form months of training. I told friends I would have loved to finish between 4:30-4:40, but after blowing my knee at mile 18 I thought I was completely off time to do this so I was amazed when we checked the app and I realised I had done it!
It was amazing to see the white and purple vest on the London course for another year!
Emily pictures with previous Thanet AC marathon runner (2022), Amy Clayton.
Emily had been fundraising throughout her marathon training to raise money for a charity, CRPS-UK and equipment for Thanet AC.
"Chronic regional pain syndrome is a condition that has affected my family and something that is both relatively unknown and un-researched. I wanted to raise money for a charity that felt personal for me. The charity helps to raise awareness and provides support to both the individual and the families that are affected by the condition. In addition, it only felt right that I raised money for the club that gave me a start in running. I have been with the club since I was 8 years old when it was formally the baby bolts and I have watched the club grow which has been amazing to be part of. I would love to see the money go towards track repairs and equipment for athlete and coach development in the future for the club to continue"
Emily has managed to achieve her goal of raising £500 (split evenly) on her just-giving page but is keeping the page open until early June for anyone else who would like to donate after the run!
We have linked her page here:
Emily pictures with friends, family and members of the club holding the Thanet AC club banner!
The ballot for the next London marathon 2024 has now closed. Athletes who would like to apply for the 2024 club position please speak to our club secretary Linda before the committee decides who will receive the place. (Note: Those applying for the club marathon place must have entered the ballot)
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