London Marathon
Smalls near to his best
The London Marathon saw a fantastic run by Colchester harriers long distance specialist Allen Smalls , the 47 year old clocked a staggering 2-36-17 to finish 176th overall and 8th veteran. Smalls also had the pleasure of being in the group running with Paula Ratcliffe in her last competitive race, Smalls ran just ahead of her most of the way and was there to clap her through the line at the finish, Smalls time was only 3 minutes short of his best ever. Marie Shirley was unlucky not to break the 3 hour barrier yet again coming home in 3-03-24, her 4th consecutive Marathon under 3-04 but falling heart breakingly short after yet another brave attempt at the elusive time. It was a personal best for Jason Bilton in a good 3-38-29 he had numerous problems with injuries etc this year, but produced the goods on the day just pipping first timer Kate Priestley who ran an excellent race in 3-39-38. Lucy Bannatyne and Mark Waddington came home in 4-40 and enjoyed the experience.