The London Marathon

The Olivers were very excited that the London marathon began at 10:00am. apparently most marathons start around 6:30 or 7:00 in the morning and so they were happy to have a "leisurely" morning today.

We all went with Scott on the Underground (London's subway) to the train station.



From the train station, Scott headed to the starting line with the other runners and we took a quick peek around the finish line area before heading to the halfway point where we would watch some of the race. This was a good decision because when we came back later, we couldn't get anywhere near the finish line and the crowds were insane. Just through these arches is where we met up after the run.



This is called the mall and way at the other end you can kind of see Buckingham Palace. The race ended just past the palace. I wonder if the Queen was watching from her bedroom window? Scott read that Prince Harry would be handing out medals, but he never saw him. I liked the flags that lined the street. This was as close as we ever got to the finish line.



After checking out the finishing area, we headed to watch the race from the Tower Bridge. On the way we passed the Tower of London which has been a castle and a prison and several other things over the years. There were so many cops around the marathon course.



Here is a nice shot of the Tower of London. It kind of gives me the shivers to imagine all of the famous people who have lived and died (usually beheaded!) there.



We made our way to the Tower Bridge to watch the marathon at its halfway point.





There weren't many spectators at this point so we got a chance to walk around a bit and see some of the bridge.


More police.


The first runners to pass us were the elite women, followed by the wheelchairs and then the Paralympic athletes. Many of the Paralympic runners were blind and running with a guide runner. It was very inspiring to watch them. Finally came the elite men's group followed by the main field.



It was funny to see the runners who had dressed up for the run. We saw a gorilla, a Smurf, Ironman, a baby, a fairy, guys in dresses, and so many other crazy costumes.


After Scott passed us at the bridge, we headed to the finish line. There were people everywhere and it was hard to take any more pictures. Finally we found Scott and he was so happy to have finished the run.



I don't know if a flat person can run a marathon but after this morning, I kind of want to try someday!

Location:London, UK