It’s been an incredible period for Carn Runners, with members taking on the ultimate running challenge — the marathon. From the world-famous streets of London to a powerful club-organised virtual marathon, the Carn colours were out in force, and the stories behind the miles are what make this one truly special.
Marathons are never just about the distance. They’re about the journey, the people, the setbacks, the support and the moments that stay with you long after the finish line.
Antony’s Journey to Becoming a Marathon Runner
For Antony, this wasn’t just another race — it was the culmination of an incredible transformation.
Less than a year ago, running even 5K felt like a challenge. Fast forward to now, and after clocking up an astonishing 834km of training since January, he stood on the start line of his very first marathon.
Running as part of the Carn Runners virtual marathon group, Antony described the day as a true test of will, teamwork and trust. Battling the heat and the sheer scale of the distance, it was the people around him that helped get him over the line.
From teammates running alongside him, to supporters waiting at key points, to friends joining for the final kilometre — it was a full team effort.
Crossing that finish line wasn’t just about completing 26.2 miles.
“Today I am a marathon runner… my legs are destroyed, but my heart is full.”
A moment that sums up exactly what the marathon means.
The Power of the Virtual Club Marathon
Antony wasn’t alone. The Carn Runners virtual marathon saw a brilliant group come together to take on the distance as a team.
Dawn, Briana, Donna, Antony, Kerry and Jeanette all completed the full marathon distance, supporting each other every step of the way. It wasn’t easy — heat, injuries and even technology issues tried to get in the way — but the group stuck together and got it done.
There were also some incredible efforts alongside the marathon itself, including Cat pushing out 20 miles “just because she could”, and a number of runners supporting along the way and completing half marathon distances.
The day was filled with moments that perfectly capture what Carn Runners is all about — from fuel stops organised along the route, to lifts to the start line, to supporters popping up at just the right time to keep spirits high.
It wasn’t just a run — it was a full club effort.
London Marathon: The Big Stage
While the virtual marathon was unfolding in Cornwall, Carn Runners were also taking on the iconic London Marathon.
For Mike, it was an unforgettable experience. Running through packed streets with crowds calling his name, the atmosphere carried him through much of the race.
Despite a tough moment at mile 20, when his knee began to give him trouble, he showed incredible determination to keep going — walking the final miles to make sure he reached the finish line.
That’s marathon running in its purest form — adapting, digging deep and refusing to give up.
Kat’s Sixth London Marathon
Also taking on London was Kat, who lined up for an incredible sixth time at this world-famous event.
The race once again delivered its usual mix of challenge and atmosphere. With warm conditions and a tough patch around mile 16, any thoughts of chasing a personal best had to be set aside.
But that’s part of the marathon experience.
Kat pushed through and finished strongly, adding another London Marathon to her list — and doing so on a historic day, with a sub-2 hour marathon barrier being broken by Sabastian Sawe, making the occasion even more memorable.
It’s that mix of personal achievement and being part of something bigger that makes London so special.
More Than Just Miles
Across all of these runs — whether in London or here in Cornwall — one thing stands out above everything else:
The people.
From training partners and race-day teammates to supporters, friends, family and even fellow runners on the course, the marathon brings everyone together in a way few other events can.
There were personal milestones, tough moments, laughter, challenges and huge achievements — but most importantly, there was support at every step.
A Huge Well Done to All Our Marathoners
From first-time marathon finishers to experienced runners taking on the distance once again, it has been an incredible effort from everyone involved.
Becoming a marathon runner is something that stays with you forever — and Carn Runners now has even more members who can proudly say they’ve done it.
Huge congratulations to Antony, Dawn, Briana, Donna, Kerry-ann, Jeanette, Mike and Kat, along with everyone who supported along the way.
An amazing achievement, an unforgettable experience, and a reminder of what can be accomplished with the right people around you.
