Running the Smoke

This updated edition features a new introduction, and an exclusive interview with long-distance runner Paula Radcliffe.

It is the world's most iconic road race.

It is twenty-six-point-two miles of iconic landmarks, cheers, tears, sweat, pain, courage, determination and inspiration.

It is triumph over adversity on a colossal scale.

It is the London Marathon – and it's an event unlike any other.

Running The Smoke tells the story of what it's like to take part in this race in the most enlightening and enriching way possible: from the perspectives of twenty-six different people who have participated in it since its inception in 1981. Candid and inspiring if you are preparing for your first marathon or your 100th, Running The Smoke will give you the encouragement, insight and belief you need to cross that line.