London Marathon 2026: 4:17
Age 50, 30 minute PB and perhaps most importantly a reversal of a Type II diabetes diagnosis along the way. Nik is not stopping at that either!
London 2026 was my third marathon, second in London and the favourite run of my life.
I cannot believe that I have been running for 20 years and did not realise that Dave lived less than a quarter of a mile from me. If only I had met him all of those years ago – what might have been?!
Blizard was recommended to me by a friend and by my local physio. I then discovered that a few of my Strava buddies and my professional network had all been part of the Blizard community and were strong advocates.
My first meeting at the Blizard HQ in Bircotes was one of the most powerful hours of my running life – I gained some proper perspective on my 5km, 10km and ½ marathon times, was challenged on my preconceptions of what I was capable of for the marathon and learned some science that I loved and understood. (Dad was a doctor, sister is a doctor, mum was a medical secretary, I am the medical Pratap family black sheep!) I learned about my strengths – heart rate, lung capacity and training routine. More importantly, I learned about my weaknesses – hydration, rest and lack of focus for my long run planning.
I lined up on the start line at Blackheath with the confidence of having had a legendary coach behind me. He listened to my moaning when I had a shit long run and put it in perspective, he gave me exercises to manage my nerve mobilisation issue in my foot and he made me feel like a proper runner and not just a fun runner.
Most importantly, and as I turned 50, my love for running, ambition and knowledge have all reached the highest point they ever have. David has made me think beyond the marathon and be ready for the next challenge. I have already beaten my PB by 30 minutes and reversed a pre-diabetic diagnosis. It’s impossible to stop here, isn’t it?! The full set of majors may be beyond me, but I have never felt more confident on what I can do.?
