John: London landmarks will bring a tear (From Dorset Echo)

John: London landmarks will bring a tear

12:07pm Friday 28th March 2008 in Features By Adam Summers

JUST under a year ago my sons and I had the idea of running the London Marathon in memory of Teresa and Shirley who both lost their fights against cancer and passed away within two weeks of each other.

I dusted off my running shoes and started the long journey to fitness and ten months on, the day is nearly upon us.

Over the past couple of weeks I have been gradually building up the miles and last Sunday I completed an 18-mile circuit, the furthest we run before the event.

Our training now eases down ahead of the race and I must say although I have had to go through the pain barrier on many occasions, I have enjoyed every minute of it. No more so than when I finished 15 miles and saw my grandson Jack at the finish jumping up and down, and cheering me in.

I can remember his words now, he said you're a slow runner Gan Gan, you're not as fast as my Dad (Jonathon).' I loved his honesty.

The whole experience has also proved very emotional. When you're running alone for long periods many thoughts go through your mind and I know exactly the same thing will happen on the day.

Not only will I be thinking of Teresa but I will also have two sons running in the race and one supporting us. Being a father I know I am bound to wonder on the day how they are coping but I also know they will all be giving it every thing they have got because all three have inherited their mother's grit and determination.

London was always mine and Teresa's favourite place to visit, and a certain part of the course I will know very well. It will bring back a lot of fond memories and I am sure there will be times in the race when my emotions will take over, especially when I reach the embankment and look ahead and see Westminster Bridge and Big Ben.

Then I will glance to the left and see the London Eye where on one of our last visits to the capital together Teresa showed her grit, determination and bravery by overcoming her fear of heights and taking a flight in one of the capsules with me.

Afterwards we walked to Bucking-ham Palace along the same route as we will take in the marathon and I know every stride along that final couple of miles will be very emotional.

When I get like that in training I find it drives me on and gives me strength and I hope the same will happen on the day.

Someone once said to me there are two types of people in this world, talkers and doers.' Well, we have all done plenty of talking in the last few months about the event, so now it is time to show we are doers as well.

You can still sponsor the trio by
visiting justgiving.com/summers08