London Marathon 2025

The London Marathon has always been a bucket list goal on my running journey, so I was incredibly proud when I received a place and an opportunity to support Nerve Tumours UK. Not only could I run a major race, but it also gave me the opportunity to raise awareness and funds for a charity that has supported me and my family for a very long time.

I had high ambitions for this race. I wanted to beat my Manchester Marathon time of 3 hours, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds, and I also aimed to get close to the Good for Age qualifying time. As the marathon day arrived, I quickly realised the weather was not going to be on my side. With highs of 22 degrees, I knew I had to change my race strategy. For every race, I set gold, silver, and bronze goals. This time, I knew I had to go for “just finish the race.” I started with my planned race pace but was prepared to adjust if it wasn’t sustainable in the heat.

I was fortunate to have a friend living in Blackheath, which meant a relaxed 20-minute walk to the start line with my family. The atmosphere was electric. A morning mist hung across the Heath, and you could see the silhouettes of runners making their way to the start. I met my charity group, Nerve Tumours UK, just before entering the start zone—it was lovely to finally put faces to the names of those supporting me. After a quick photo with the group, and hugs from friends and family, I headed into the marathon zone.

The waiting area was pretty chilled, and it was surprisingly easy to find the loos (I had loads of nervous wees!). Although you’re there for a good two hours, the time passes quickly. Soon we were heading to our race pens, discarding our charity shop layers, and preparing to start this epic journey.

As I came out of Greenwich Park, I heard cheers from my mini support crew—Ab, the boys, and friends Kathy, Miranda, and Hawley—waving homemade banners. It instantly lifted my spirits and got me into race mode. This year’s marathon drew record-breaking support; honestly, there wasn’t a single stretch without spectators. It was incredible.

I started strong, but as the miles went on, the heat began to take its toll. The first major landmark was the Cutty Sark—a moment I’ve always looked forward to from watching the marathon on TV. Ab and the boys were there, though I didn’t spot them in the crowd.
As the heat intensified, I had to slow my pace. Thankfully, the course was dotted with hose-down points and even cups of ice. I’d read a tip to put ice down your shorts—after trying it, I can’t recommend it!

The halfway point at the London Marathon is Tower Bridge—iconic and emotional. Crossing it meant every step from there was closer to the finish. It also meant I was heading toward the Massey support team. But seeing runners already at the 21-mile mark as I hit halfway reminded me how far I still had to go. Still, I kept digging in.

The cheers kept me going—first from the Northbrook squad, then from my friends in Ashby. But the best shout came from the Masseys, with Jane’s voice rising above the London crowd. Step by step, those cheers carried me forward. I’ve never heard my name shouted so many times in one day!
Reaching Canary Wharf was a relief. The tunnels there gave a brief escape from the heat—though running through rivers of Lucozade made it feel like a nightclub floor. Very grim!

As I came along the Embankment and saw Big Ben, I knew I was nearly there. I felt a surge of pride running down the Mall. I gave it one last push and crossed the finish line, completely overwhelmed. It marked the end of an epic journey.

After collecting my medal, I reunited with friends and family and joined the Nerve Tumours UK team in St. James’s Park. It was so good to finally meet the charity behind me and connect with fellow runners affected by Neurofibromatosis.

I’ve been truly humbled by all the support. So many people helped—whether through training runs, donations, or simple words of encouragement.

The Coventry community supported me, as did the parkrun family—and especially the Sikhi community, who made a generous donation to my campaign. Running the marathon isn’t just about race day; it’s about the journey and all the people who helped get you there. Their support gives you wings to do your best.

The London Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a testament to love, support, and community.
My official time was 4:08:35, and I raised over £2,000 for my charity. I’m incredibly proud of what I achieved.

–  Joy Woolass