Runner is now ready for a rest

Determined Dee will now be taking things easy for a while after she completed the London Marathon last weekend to raise cash for charity.

And whilst she is still recovering from the standard aches and pains, she said it was an amazing day, and worth every second of the hard core training regime.

She said: “I can’t believe I have done it! I completed the marathon in four hours and 39 minutes. My target was between four-and-a-half and five hours, so I am very proud of that time.

“I thought it would be incredibly hard, and don’t get me wrong it wasn’t easy, but it was more enjoyable than I was expecting. The atmosphere was phenomenal and the crowds were so supportive, cheering people on and giving them the push they needed.

“It really was an incredible experience – everything about it. The event was brilliantly organised, well set out and very efficient. And we even had some sunshine, which brightened the day.

“I felt great – and what made it truly amazing was my husband Steve, mother-in-law and two children were waiting to cheer me on at mile 12. This really put a spring in my step and spurred me on.

“I tried hard to keep a steady pace throughout as I didn’t want to burn out too quickly. Sticking to a strict training plan definitely paid off.”

Dee, of Flamstead Avenue, had been pounding the pavements of Loscoe along with members of Smalley Road Runner Club, for months prior to the event on April 23.

“Training certainly wasn’t a walk in the park – it has been a real labour of love. It’s definitely been intense, we started out doing three to five mile runs a few times a week and a seven-mile run at the weekends, with each weekend seeing a boost in mileage. In addition to that, I did spin classes and sessions with a personal trainer to help build my muscles up.

“I had a twisted knee and the standard aches and pains as you would expect, but we taped ourselves up and kept on going. I also had to eat more to keep my energy up and drink green juices to help boost vitamins – it is more than just a bit of running. It takes real determination and dedication to get your body ready for such a big challenge.”

But Dee hard work paid off. Not only did she achieve a personal goal, she has also raised more than £1,300 for MACS – the UK’s national charity for children born without eyes or with underdeveloped eyes.

Kind-hearted Dee said MACS was a relatively ‘under-the-radar’ charity.

“The charity isn’t as well-known as others, but the work they do is absolutely amazing and deserves recognition and support.”

Dee hosted a string of fundraisers to drum up the sponsorship including a raffle with donated prizes from many local companies.

She said: “I just want to thank everyone who has supported me in any and every way whether that be in time, patience or donations.

“I also want to give special thanks to my husband Steve, mother-in-law Pam and family, friends, fellow runners and my colleagues – I couldn’t have made it across that finish line without all of you.

“I know I have been somewhat of a marathon bore over the past few months, but it was all for an excellent cause. And I am now looking forward to spending some quality time with my family.”

And although initially Dee said this would be her first and last London Marathon, she now might consider another.

She added: “I was so nervous beforehand and it was such hard work I couldn’t imaging putting myself through it again. But now, I think I might. Not just yet though – my running shoes deserve a break!”

To make a donation visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Dorindamason.