One hundred years ago the Royal Family asked for Olympic marathon distance to be stretched slightly so that they could see the start of the race from the comfort of their own home at Windsor Castle. The length of the race has been 26 miles 385 yards ever since, and although the Royals have little input these days the marathon has continued to grow in popularity.

On Sunday over 35000 runners, joggers and walkers lined up for the 28^th London Marathon, and for once had perfect conditions in which to run. Rain isn’t a problem once you’ve warmed up, and there was none of the heat which destroyed so many aspirations last year. Unfortunately, thanks to a ballot entry system which steadfastly refuses to recognise the dedicated club runner, only three Viking Striders were there to enjoy it (plus club stalwart Dave Hanney’s wife Lynne who incidentally recorded an excellent time of just over five and a half hours).

Giles "Flying Doctor" Harris has been the Striders’ best exponent of the art for some time, but even he excelled himself on Sunday with a quite exceptional 2.51.46. To put it into context this was the fastest time by a Strider since Norman Prentice’s marvellous 2.51.39 at London in 1991. Of course, according to BBC commentators, anyone slower than two and a half hours is dismissively labelled as a fun runner, but believe me the hard work involved in getting to Giles’ level does not include much of a fun element.

Simon Griffin’s 3.03.13 was an excellent effort by anybody’s standards, although he will have been slightly disappointed not to go under three hours again. Patsy Fenelon again produced a wonderful time of 3.58 .22 mostly without fuss or much training - well done to her. Dave Pullman last achieved under 3 hours in 1996. Older now, although not necessarily any wiser, Dave was happy to enjoy the experience for the umpteenth time and get round in a highly respectable 4.31.17.