Well what can I say that hasn't already been said about the London Marathon.  The best I've done.  Doesn't mean I don't enjoy the others but LM will always have a special place in my heart.  From my first one (1985) to my fastest (2006) to times when I have paced (2007, 2009, 2012, 2012, 2013, 2014) and even a DNF (2014) I've started 16 times now and finished 15 times.  Have also been lucky enough to volunteer on the course twice and at the finish three times.

The event is a reaffirmation of the wonderful nature of the human race.  Hundreds of thousands of people come out to cheer, clap, smile and generally support thousands of runners.  The volunteers look after you from start to finish.  If you don't like crowds this isn't for you and if you are someone who doesn't read the race instructions, you will come unstuck.

If you are a positive person who wants to embrace an event by giving it your passion and enthusiasm, then London will not disappoint.

I'm a slower runner (2019 was my slowest of my 15 finishes) which is a little bit of a shame but this hasn't diminshed my buzz for the event.

The course isn't too undulating but it isn't pancake flat.  The first few miles have a few ups and downs but nothing huge.  At my pace the course was 'busy' so occasionally you have to weave around people but it isn't too bad.  The wave starts have improved things since I last ran here.

Aid stations excellent although I they are looking at ways to reduce the impact of bottles etc and I think in time we will need to be more self sufficient - which isn't a bad thing.

You get to see so many 'big sights' (Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Tower of London, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace etc) as well as 'local streets' teeming with supporters.

There is a certain amount of snobbery from some folks ('London has become a side show' or 'it's just a charity event, not for proper runners').  Rubbish.  The event has amazing athletes at the front and just look at the amazing sub 3 hour performances.  If you don't like people dressing up in fancy dress then okay but don't be a misery about it.

I love it and hope to get in again.  If not I will be volunteering or spectating.