What does it really feel like to run the London Marathon for the first time?

In this special Sapphire Running Zone podcast, we hear from eight first-time London Marathon runners who all completed the race while raising money for charity. Finishing in times from just over 3½ hours to more than 7 hours, they share their honest experiences of one of the world's most iconic marathons.

From the excitement of the Marathon Expo and the nerves in the Greenwich start area to the unforgettable crowds at Tower Bridge, the challenging miles through Docklands and the emotional finish on The Mall, this episode takes you through every stage of race day.

You'll hear inspiring stories of determination, fundraising, overcoming setbacks, adapting to difficult conditions and the incredible atmosphere that makes the London Marathon unlike any other race.

Whether you're preparing for your first London Marathon, hoping to secure a charity place or simply love hearing runners' stories, this episode will leave you informed, inspired and excited for race day.

In this episode:

• What to expect at the London Marathon Expo

• The start area and race morning nerves

• Tower Bridge, Docklands and the famous landmarks

• How the crowds carry you through 26.2 miles

• The emotional final mile and finish

• Honest advice from eight first-time marathon finishers

• Charity fundraising and why London is so much more than a marathon

For more podcasts go to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have three channels, this one, one on event podcasts and one for members only. If you'd to be the focus of one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.