Running a marathon is a formidable physical feat that demands mental grit, resilience, and unwavering dedication. On Oct. 7, 2024, hybrid athlete Fergus Crawley showcased how running a marathon can transform one’s life. He ran his first marathon in the stunning Scottish Highlands.
Marathons embody endurance, perseverance, and personal achievement. They trace back to the legend of Pheidippides, a Greek soldier who ran 26.2 miles from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens in 490 BC to announce the victory. Today, significant marathons occur in cities like London, Boston, and New York, fostering a sense of global unity.
Crawley’s first marathon marked his inaugural attempt to give his utmost effort over this distance.
“I’ve run the marathon distance almost 50 times as part of ultramarathons at the end of a full distance Ironman (triathlon) but never as a singular goal,” Crawley said.
[Related: How Do You Start Running in the Morning? An Experienced Ultramarathoner Explains]
Fergus Crawley‘s Marathon in the Scottish Highlands
According to Crawley, the first section of the course descends, creating a false sense of security that makes him feel like the “Loch Ness Monster on wheels.” However, that adrenaline faded as the course leveled out.
The route features several hills with three notable spikes that pose significant challenges. During the marathon, Crawley found a group of athletes pacing similarly to him. His strategy for tackling this course involves consuming approximately 80 grams of carbs per hour, taking 250-milligram sodium tablets at each water station, and hydrating with 330 milliliters of water whenever possible.
Nine Miles In
After nine miles, Crawley felt his legs weakening, but the stunning scenery and some snacks helped him gather his thoughts. He referred to this section of the marathon course as “the graveyard shift.” As he pressed on, he conversed with fellow runners.
Aid Station
Crawley mentioned that the aid station offered solace before facing the next challenge, which he called the “monster.” He fueled up with a caffeine gel, hoping for two key outcomes: a surge of energy and avoiding mishaps.
He navigated the hill by slowing his pace to accommodate his body weight of 230 pounds (93 kilograms), only to realize he had one more hill to conquer.
Changed my mood from one of thriving to one of merely surviving.
[Related: How Long Is a Half Marathon? Plus Tips for Your First Half Marathon]
Final 20 Miles
As Crawley entered his marathon’s final stretch, he reflected that he could have begun his push for the finish about 500 meters earlier. However, with the finish line in sight, he felt a surge of confidence, knowing he had run a strong race, relished the experience, and achieved his goal of giving it his all and enjoying the experience with fellow runners.
Crawley completed the marathon in three hours, 10 minutes, and 47 seconds. He recognizes that dealing with injuries has impacted his mental state, affecting his daily running and lifting routines.
For the first time in months, I felt truly free. That is where I see the value in committing to goals that scare you.
[Related: Annie Thorisdottir and Katrin Davíðsdóttir’s 6 Tips For Sticking to Your Goals]
Crawley’s Marathon Outcomes
- Allowed Crawley to spend time with a community of like-minded individuals.
- Immerse in stunning scenery.
- Learned, recovered, and propelled toward new challenges.
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Featured image: @ferguscrawley on Instagram
