The 39th BMW Berlin Marathon took place on Sunday September 30 and I was lucky enough to get a place in this iconic race.
Iconic for the fact that it’s a flat, world-record course,  for its historical significance of the landmarks on the course and now my new favourite race!
Having run a less than satisfactory 3.07.58 due to injury at the Virgin London Marathon this Spring, I was determined to up my game and retain my title as fastest U23 female marathoner in the UK for the second year running. The goal was to break that elusive three hour barrier and so I’d trained at a pace of 6.40 minute miles over a summer period which involved several weeks of more than 100 miles of running, as well as weights sessions and an obscene amount of porridge.
Joining me in Berlin was Leeds University SPA (Sport and Physical Activity) Marketing Manager Tom Exeter, who was completing his first marathon as I took part in my fifth.
As we fuelled up before the race I was much more nervous than he was – I think I felt more pressure to perform.
The day dawned and I got off to a good start. Despite feeling cracking, I tried hard to curb my enthusiasm, as many a marathoner goes out too fast, feeling strong at the start, only for it all to fall apart in the second half when the adrenaline runs out and fatigue kicks in.

However, I kept it controlled and as I reached halfway I began to up my speed. The kilometres ticked by: 4.08, 4.05, 4.01… While others around me seemed to be suffering from the warm sunshine, I began to work through the field, overtaking group after group, thriving on the cheers of the international crowds lining the street.
As I passed 40km I let rip, striding through the final mile or so before careering through the Brandenburg Gate and over the finish line in 2.53.30.
This was a new personal best for me by 6 minutes 43 seconds and I later found out I was the 26th woman over the line, the 3rd British female. My performance was the 32nd fastest marathon run by a British woman this year, as well as being the fastest U23 time by over 18 minutes.
At the time I wasn’t aware of most of this, all I knew was that I couldn’t stop smiling! I was so proud to have performed to my best while representing my University and my country.
Tom finished in 3.48 hours, a brilliant first marathon especially considering he incurred a knee problem during the race.
So what’s next for me? LUUCCC  Coach Greg Hull and I are already looking ahead to the 2013 Greater Manchester Marathon, and then onwards and upwards. I’m also working towards getting other University runners into the legendary distance race – if I can do it, anyone can.

Author: Jocelyn Payne