As previewed here, many of the capital's roads were shut off today to allow for the first proper 10k around the centre of town, which followed part of the marathon route for the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. This Londonista signed up to do the race, run by the organisers of the Marathon.
Torrential rain engulfed the course - there was a serious deluge from beginning to end, with some hefty winds mixed in. It has been reported that half the runners didn't turn out, deterred by the dreadful conditions.
The runners area in Green Park became a deep muddy lake before the race had even started. On the course there seemed to be simply too many runners, despite the high drop-off - so many of us were constantly dodging the slower people and getting caught in congestion. Organisational glitches must be corrected for next year - whoever grouped people randomly into different waves to start (not based on predicted times) should be thrown into the Thames wearing nothing but their trainers.
This was not the day for personal bests. The elite runners were astonishing in their speed (possibly even more motivated than normal to reach the finish and a warm, dry VIP area). All those that braved the downpour can be proud that they managed it. Some out-of-Londoners were impressed by running past so many iconic sights in such a short time.
Overall, this Londonista headed home clutching a medal ready for a much-deserved glass of pinotage. Was the race good enough to be held again next year? Not sure - if it does take place, please can someone make sure the weather's nicer? Thanks. Oh yes - and in 2012 too.
Picture taken from this Londonista's own Canon
