@user-of2zi8tg1r more than some real work a 15 minute 5k is an amazing performance that most runners will never meet. Plus everybody starts somewhere at my first marathon I'm sure I wouldn't have done any better than this guy.
This was refreshing because UA-cam is filled with sub 3 hour marathons and it kind of zaps the confidence out of running for me. I'm really proud of Tom for pulling this off, a very emotional moment!
Maybe a change of framing helps? I find all the people who can run a 3 hour (and less) inspirational. I think even if that isn't in line of sight for you, it makes you want to find out how to do better next time when you see people who have put in the effort and executed.
I have contacted your podcast in the past, but haven’t had much luck, so I hope I will get a bit more lucky here. I am a completely blind runner, and would love to introduce you guys to guided running! I have done to Marathon’s and countless shorter runs. Would you be interested in taking on the new challenge?
This is so relateable. I ran my first marathon this past Sunday - I followed a 16 week program, and all my long runs were a "success" at about 6.30 min/km. When setting a goal, I thought 4.30 was a stretch but achieveable (6.24 min/km average) and my C goal was "just run the whole thing." Looking back I realise that these were not sensible goals for my first marathon, and nothing could have prepared me for the world of pain I entered after the 30km mark. I burst into tears when my pace had fallen so low that 4.30 wouldn't be possible, then I cried again the first time I started walking. I ended up run-walking the last 10km. Sarah said on this week's podcast that if you know someone who's just run a marathon (or any distance really), don't let the first or second question that you ask them be "what was your time." I could really only understand this after my race on Sunday. I felt imposter syndrome exactly as you described. Congratulations on your race Tom and Sarah - and congrats to everyone who commits to marathon training, it's serious business.
This video is so real! Can we normalise being less obsessed with finishing times and instead measuring it only in how much fun you have and how many dogs you stroked?! A golden retriever puppy kiss is far more impressive than a fast finish ❤
Tom, you made me cry. I did 5:29 in my first marathon and felt exactly like you. However, 5 years later I improved to 4.20. I so remember all the pain that you expressed.,. Thanks for being so vulnerable with us all.
I agree! My first marathon was 5:44 and was the most painful thing I'd ever done. 17 months later I did another, more hilly, marathon and got 5:27. My next one is aiming for sub-4, in over a years time and I'm already putting in the groundwork to get there. But any progress is progress. And as I've seen said on this channel before, you either win or you learn 🔥
Man…that first marathon changes you doesn’t it? I still remember my first one in 2016 and this vid resonated all these years later. Well done bud, you absolutely DESERVED to be there!
I ran my first marathon yesterday and it was tough, I completely emphasise with everything Tom was feeling. However, I met a woman who had done 42(!!) marathons and she told me that time doesn't matter, all that matters is that you complete it!
Sarah: "Do I not get a speaking part in this?" Tom: "No. You are famous and we can't afford you." Tom is too freaking funny omg. Congratulations on the marathon!!
I just cried watching this! I ran my first marathon yesterday in York in 4:15 & the second I crossed the line I burst into tears. The months of training, pride & support of the crowds was overwhelming! Roll on London 2024! 🇬🇧❤️
I ran my first marathon in York on Sunday too, and also burst into tears after finishing (got 4:41!)! Well done on your time and well done for all the perseverance in training! :)
Running a marathon is a journey where you uncover your highs and lows, ultimately leading to a deeper appreciation of life. It's in those moments of being broken that you often discover your true purpose. Well done! 💪🏼
My god, what an inspiring story, incredible achievement Tom! I've started running about 2 months ago (partly thanks to this channel) and completed my first 5k without stopping last week. It's gonna be a long journey, but the dream is still to run a marathon one day! This video definitely gave me plenty of motivation to go for my run today 💪🏻
I was exactly where you are last year and just last month completed my first Half. On the days when it’s a grind and I’m asking myself why I got myself into this, I remember the milestones I previously couldn’t hit but wound up smashing. First the 5k, then 10, and soon it will be a marathon. Always amazes me how adaptable and strong our bodies can be with incremental progress along the way.
Well done Tom!! Your journey to, and finishing of this marathon is só inspirational! As a beginner runner, plus sized and almost 40 years old, running 7-8 minute kms, this video makes me believe I might also maybe belong to the world of runners. Next January I turn 40, and next October is the 40th marathon in my local city. I want to run that marathon, but I never felt like I could ever belong there. You, Tom, make me feel I might after all. Your closing words 'I am now 26,2 miles closer to the person I want to be' hit home for me. I will cherish those words as a mantra. Thank you! And congratulations, you're a superstar!
So proud of you!! 🎉 I cried after my first marathon as well, I think it’s just mandatory. I finished around the same time in Chicago! I’m so upset I missed you two! Congratulations 🎉🎈🍾
Tom, I can honestly say I feel far more inspired by someone like you than the folks who are out there doing it in half the time....I've done half marathons but I've been going back and forth on an attempt at the full forty two, and watching your videos has made me think maybe I can...thanks for letting us share your journey, and huge congrats on getting it done 👍
Amazing job. For the record Tom, there shouldn't have been anybody else but you there. It are people like you that give me courage it is reachable. We are all runners. Some are faster, some are slower. In the end we do all the same training, we all have the same medal and we probably feel all like sh*t the day after ;-). Keep going, you are a bigger inspiration than you might think!
Tom. You didn’t quit. I’m incredibly proud of you. Thank you for taking us along on your journey. Also to Sarah, thank you for being the warm and supportive teammate to Tom. The rising tide lifts all ships.
Awesome Job! If you run Chicago Marathon again make sure you stop at The BCR (Black Chicago Runners) tent at Mile 20. You will get the fuel you need, from chips, pb&j sandwiches, water, soda and so much more. You walked right by them (14:49). We’re also at mile 24. Congratulations Marathoner! 🏅
I know this probably isn't the place (nor may you see this), but I understand why you say , "running the bridge between who you are and who you want to be", but please don't neglect that you are the person you are right now, which the best version of yourself day by day. Embrace the work you've put in up to this point in this moment right now, the joy you bring to people's lives, and how much you matter right now,. Those things won't change, they're already unquantifiable. Happiness isn't something to strive for, it's something you have right now.
Congratulations Tom! This was epic- what an achievement! I love all the Running Channel videos, but this is the most relatable by far. I ran Amsterdam yesterday, so the feelings are fresh. My wall came at 24k.
Susan, I also joined the struggle bus at 24k at Amsterdam! I felt a pain in my hip which I freaked out about & I had “a moment” but made it to the end. I don’t feel the sense of pride that I should do though, which is sad. But I may come back for more…
I'm not crying, you are crying! Well done, Tom! Congratulations on being a marathoner and thank you so much for taking us on the journey with you. And I loved your WHY, I can relate to that so much!
Congratulations Tom! You did it! I loved it when you said “Running was the bridge between who I was and who I want to be” That completely resonated with me, and I’m going to keep that close. ❤ Get plenty of rest and recovery now Tom.
Awsome job Tom!!!! FINISH LINES NOT FINISH TIMES!! The biggest lesson I learned was that PB and pace are a goal that can be disheartening. I embrace the feeling, atmosphere and the thousands of friends you have for a few hours, even if you don’t know their names!!
Great job Tom! Marathons are hard and you did a terrific job. My brother and I ran Chicago in 1986 he hit the wall at 19.5 miles. I pushed him to the finish, his first and last marathon. Sara you were a great running partner, thanks for taking us along.
This is one of the channels best videos. I had the exact same experience in Chicago 2021. It was stupid hot that year and the heat killed me, my time was 6:18 or so. It’s so refreshing to see the slower folks documented like this, awesome job! Congrats.
❤tom I'm running Chicago in about 6 weeks, what an inspiring person, I'm run/ walk due to life getting in the way, but you have inspired me to get out of bed and run and reason to live , thank you Tom, I'm watching this video every day thank you x
I am sitting here crying. What a beautiful, messy journey--and the messy part is what makes this so relatable and emotional. You stuck through it--adjusted your goals and did YOUR race YOUR way. I don't know you personally, but I feel like a friend has just crossed off a major bucket list item. I'm so happy for you!! Congrats!
Tom, this is soooo relatable. My friend Dean got me through Amsterdam on Sunday - I honestly don’t think I’d have finished without him. I also had to come to terms with the fact I wasn’t going to run under 5 hours which was hard. I finished feeling relieved but not proud. I still don’t feel very proud and that sucks, as anyone setting out to do a marathon should feel proud. Proud for putting themselves out there, proud for all the training & proud to have blooming well finished! This video helped me a lot. Thank you for showing the “real” side of running ❤️
What a fantastic video, Tom- super proud of you, you dug deep and achieved your goals, you've really inspired me! I have my first marathon next year and I'll be watching this video several times before it! Sarah, great job supporting Tom, you're awesome! Happy tears all round for this 😃
Congratulations Tom! NYC was my first marathon and I'll never forget that feeling of crossing the finish line after struggling and having to walk/run a good portion of last 8 miles. I think I wanted to run 4 hours but ended up doing 4:20. My next marathon I smashed it with a 3:30.
This brought tears to my eyes and fired me up! I'm yet to run a marathon because I've always been so worried about comparing myself to others and looking "slow" out there. Thanks so much Tom for pushing through and proving you can do it. I can't wait to prove to myself I can too!
Phenomenal achievement Tom, congratulations mate. Watched this sat in a restaurant by myself in Belgium. There were tears! But there were smiles too. I love what you said about running being the bridge between the person you are and the person you want to be. That’s exactly how I feel about it. Can’t wait to see you run an ultra in 2024! 😉
I'm proud of you Tom - and kudos to Sarah for running with you all the way for support. I just ran the Long Beach Half Marathon and hit my wall at mile 7. Too much pain all over and conditions were quite hot. I was ready to find an out - but kept walking and finished. Congratulations again Tom.
Wow, you had me in tears Tom. What an incredible run! Thank you for being so honest. It was also great to see other runners in the background digging in on their own personal challenges, in their own ways - so inspiring. No one can take that achievement away from any of you.
Congrats on the marathon finish Tom and thank you sincerely for your thoughts on running. I also feel very much like I don't belong when I'm running. In fact I ran a 10k track race yesterday morning (my first ever) and there were only six people signed up, and I came in 6th, a full 5 minutes after everyone else. I always feel too tall, too big, too silly wearing 4" running shorts. But it's incredibly helpful to hear from folks like you who feel the same way because it reminds me that I'm not alone. That we're not alone! In the end if you're able bodied, have two legs, and can move those legs to push you forward at a steady clip, you're a runner. Congrats again!
Also just ran my first marathon in September of this year and I teared up after they put on the medal around my neck. Congratulations Tom! Well done mate! 👏🏼 loves from Manila Philippines 🇵🇭
Im so glad I wasn't the only one sobbing at the finish line, I think the people handing me water though I was crazy!! Well done on an epic day in Chicago!!
I’m so so so proud of you TOM!!!! You did it! You are amazing! I still wish I was able to meet you and Sarah in person. Can’t wait for what’s next! Go go go Tom!!!!
Tom this is one of best marathon vlogs I have ever watched. Love it. Totally can relate to how you felt at the end. In 2018 I damaged my achilles and it was bad, out for 6 months, started running again in January 2019 building up to Brighton marathon in April same year and cracked the 4 hour mark, 3-58-56, and from nowhere the tears flowed. Not ashamed to admit it, it meant alot to complete in it as I wasn't sure I would ever run again and to hit the sub 4 hours my A goal....well it went to plan.
I've watched so many of these "my first marathon videos" but this was genuinely one of the most relatable ones. Literally made me cry when I heard Tom say "i'm so proud of myself". FANTASTIC job, Tom!
This video has truly inspired me. I started running at the age of 53, now 62. Done multiple Halfs, but the marathon scares me to death. Watching this I know I can do it. Thank you Tom.
Crying with you, Tom! Beyond incredible effort, so so proud of you, and what makes this even more inspiring is that so many of us can relate, my favorite TRC video so far!
Love watching Tom, I'm about to finish Couch to 5k and watching his journey has been so inspirational. I love watching the speedsters too but Tom is just so relatable. Massive well done mate, you smashed it.
Man... your comment about imposter syndrome got me. I ran my first marathon this year Nov 2024- it was virtual in my neighborhood. It took me almost 3 years to get the ability to run one.I would have finished around 4 hours 20 min, but at mile 19 I crashed. I finished 4:37. Still proud of my time. My only goal was to run the whole thing, even if it was a slow shuffle, but i couldn't. I signed up for an in person marathon in may. The buffalo marathon. I'm hoping to do better, but its a long race and anything can happen. The only way to get better is to keep doing it. I feel like i have a different appreciation of life after running 26.2 miles. The impossible seems possible
Congratulations Thomas, well done for finished first marathon regardless of completion time. Everyone who finished a marathon is a warrior looking at scale towards general population! My first marathon in mid Dec this year hopefully I'm able to complete it without any injury!
His experience is so relatable! I appreciate all the videos I've watched of the others in this channel running a marathon, but this experience is the closest one to my own.
I havent committed even to myself yet to do a marathon, but I can feel it sitting there waiting. I started running at 53yo, and ive loved it, and striving for a 10km run (no walks) at present. Enjoying and taking it easy so i do enooy it. I really enjoy this channel and the community in and around it. People like you (Tom) as well as Sarah, Andy, Rick, Anna, Mo, all the team make up an inspiring group among whom everyone can find relatable experiences.
I cried with you in the end, this is very relateable to my journey. I am doing my first halft in september 2024 so I have lots of time to train and doing a few shorter races before. This made me feel like I can do it because I relate to alot of things you said here!
I got so emotional watching you run the final bit and crossing the finish line! Massive congratulations! And to Sara being such an encouraging running partner - we should be so lucky to have a friend like you!
TOM! That was so amazing. I've been loving watching you train for this, and seeing you cross the finish line, was just inspirational! So happy for you, you did it! :D
Very well done! I know all of the feelings and all the emotions you went through including the crying after the finish line. I did my 8th last week in Eindhoven and it is an adventure and accomplishment every time you finish a marathon. Congratulations 🎉
Huge congratulations Tom! I’ve loved following your journey, and it’s inspired me to think about maybe running my first marathon. You should be very proud of yourself!
Absolutely amazing, Tom! Well done. Also props for Sarah to be your moral support. I still have to run my first marathon. Did my second half marathon yesterday in Amsterdam. Just the feeling it gives you after you crossed the finish line is something you can not describe. Well done once again!!
What a zinger of a recap! Got all the feels watching this but Tom really nails it when he says that running is the bridge between who he is and the person he wants to be. I've been struggling to put in words why I enjoy running, which I've also rather recently picked up, but that encapsulates it.
My first marathon (RnR San Diego 2021) was hard and grueling as I had to push through a knee niggle all 26 miles and so I felt every step, up and downs you did here. San Diego is hard because on mile 9 the Half splits off and then after the half you are running on a bike road and it feels like you are alone until mile 24 coming back into the city center. Congrats to a goal achieved and looking forward to more marathon reports.
Amazing Tom! Congratulations! What an amazing achievement. I did Chicago in a time of 5:40 and loved the course, but at the same time went through some very low points. I love all of the running channel videos, but this one I really related to. My goal is to run a sub 5 hour marathon too, and would be love to see more videos following the progress that you make.
Congratulations Tom. A truly incredible achievement! I also ran Chicago 2023 and your video brought back a lot of cherished memories! You done brilliant mate, you’re a marathoner! Superstar!
Amazing work Tom! I'm nowhere near the marathon distance at the moment (aiming for a half-marathon in 6 months and haven't even hit 10K yet), but it was powerful to be with you every mile in this video. That last push and crossing the finish made me excited to being a runner. To get to do things and feel things just like that. I loved what you said about running as a bridge from who you are to who you want to be. You can be whoever you want to be when you believe you can, but those are easy words to type and the getting to the "believe you can" bit is where it gets tough. Showing yourself that you're capable of hard things, especially things you might not have thought yourself capable of, is transformative. That's what builds the bridge and makes you believe.
Tom you are amazing. I just completed my first marathon in Melbourne and I felt every feeling you did along the way I had a good cry alongside you. Congratulations on becoming a marathoner!!
Congratulations Tom. I love seeing the struggle everyone goes through. So many videos minimize it and make us normal runners doubt what we are doing or capable of.
Tom you are my inspiration. I'm about a month out from my first marathon and I felt your pain and joy watching your first marathon. Well done! You can do anything!
Tom bloody inspirational! I've got my first marathon at Manchester in 2024 and you've made me all excited to have that same feeling when I finish it. Can't lie when I saw you finishing brought a tear to my eye! Also I completely feel you when you talk about comparing yourself to others, it always feels like someone is faster!
Oh my gosh. All the LOVE!! So proud of you, Tom. I appreciate your authenticity SO MUCH. Thanks for inspiring all of us normal runners to push ourselves out of our comfort zones.
Tom thank you for uploading this! I've got London next year which will be my first ever marathon. I am absolutely terrified/excited. You have inspired me that I can possibly complete it too! Thank you so much and well done!
Well done Tom. It's hard, really hard. I just completed my first marathon over this past weekend, and I thought I was pretty well prepared. But I definitely hit the wall at mile 18. Just the sheer onslaught of my legs and feet being pounded for the entire distance stopped me. But I went on to finish it.
Congratulations Tom!!! This is by far the best Chicago Marathon 2023 video I have seen. I am looking at running my first marathon next year and your experience is so inspiring!!! Thank you.
Great job Tom! This made me cry! I'm so proud of you. I loved getting to watch someone who isn't a high level runner complete their first marathon! I'm running my first in April and am just hoping to finish. You are such an inspiration!
Yesterday I ran my first ever Half-Marathon and it was such a pain, but such a pleasure aswell. I have a HUGE respect for everyone, who runs those 42k. Tom, you´re such an inspiration with this video. I will run my first marathon next year - this video is / was a big point for me to finally make that decision to do this.
OMG Tom this was amazing and really inspiring! I’m hoping to do my first half, and this is really making me feel like maybe I can do it after watching this.
Well done Tom. I love all the presenters at the Running Channel but your marathon reflects most of the marathons I've run back of the pack. Can't wait to see your next goal.
Brilliant Tom!!!! I have cried at the end of every one of my 15 marathons - but as they say, “You never forget your first time!” Loved seeing the highs and lows - very genuine portrayal of the marathon experience. Cant wait to see what you do next!!
I ran Chicago marathon last year as my first marathon and I relived my race through you today. It was an awesome experience with all the crowds and people. I also had great plans but wound up bonking at 18 miles. That is the farthest I had run in training and I think it was more mental than physical. That portion of the race is the least crowded with spectators and that made it easier to convince myself to walk. I made it though and ran the last couple miles. Great experience and truly emotional. I’m so proud of you! Keep it up to become the person you want to be. You can do it!
Tom incredible realism documenting your first marathon - always the hardest I am sure your shared experience will inspire many others to follow in your footsteps 👏😁
The MOST relatable content on TRC so far. Far far more runners in the boat with Tom than running 15 min 5ks. 🎉🎉🎉 Congrats, Tom
@user-of2zi8tg1r would you ever catch yourself on
@user-of2zi8tg1r more than some real work a 15 minute 5k is an amazing performance that most runners will never meet. Plus everybody starts somewhere at my first marathon I'm sure I wouldn't have done any better than this guy.
Even for faster runners this is very inspirational. The marathon can be brutal and beautiful no matter the pace.
Right! I ran new york a couple weeks ago in 6:22 and fuck anyone who says that's not an accomplishment.
@user-of2zi8tg1r anybody who finishes a marathon is not lazy. The slower runners are on their feet for longer, which is mentally tougher!
This was refreshing because UA-cam is filled with sub 3 hour marathons and it kind of zaps the confidence out of running for me. I'm really proud of Tom for pulling this off, a very emotional moment!
Glad it was useful! We make sure we represent all amazing runners out there so that means a lot 🙌🏻
Maybe a change of framing helps? I find all the people who can run a 3 hour (and less) inspirational. I think even if that isn't in line of sight for you, it makes you want to find out how to do better next time when you see people who have put in the effort and executed.
couldn't agree more!! amazing Tom well done
@@333jjjjjj Absolutely!
Congratulations 💪💪
I have contacted your podcast in the past, but haven’t had much luck, so I hope I will get a bit more lucky here. I am a completely blind runner, and would love to introduce you guys to guided running! I have done to Marathon’s and countless shorter runs. Would you be interested in taking on the new challenge?
Always wanted to see how different it is for blind runners.
This is so relateable. I ran my first marathon this past Sunday - I followed a 16 week program, and all my long runs were a "success" at about 6.30 min/km. When setting a goal, I thought 4.30 was a stretch but achieveable (6.24 min/km average) and my C goal was "just run the whole thing." Looking back I realise that these were not sensible goals for my first marathon, and nothing could have prepared me for the world of pain I entered after the 30km mark. I burst into tears when my pace had fallen so low that 4.30 wouldn't be possible, then I cried again the first time I started walking. I ended up run-walking the last 10km. Sarah said on this week's podcast that if you know someone who's just run a marathon (or any distance really), don't let the first or second question that you ask them be "what was your time." I could really only understand this after my race on Sunday. I felt imposter syndrome exactly as you described. Congratulations on your race Tom and Sarah - and congrats to everyone who commits to marathon training, it's serious business.
I did my first today almost the exact same as you, wall at 30 then run walks, still sub 5 hour but God was it painfull
@@thesounddisciple9213 congratulations on your run!
This video is so real! Can we normalise being less obsessed with finishing times and instead measuring it only in how much fun you have and how many dogs you stroked?! A golden retriever puppy kiss is far more impressive than a fast finish ❤
staffie kisses are the best, 😄but i defo get your drift, this video is so real and relatable on every level,
There's already too many weaklings around. We'd rather not do it.
Tom, you made me cry. I did 5:29 in my first marathon and felt exactly like you. However, 5 years later I improved to 4.20. I so remember all the pain that you expressed.,. Thanks for being so vulnerable with us all.
Thank you so much for watching!
I agree! My first marathon was 5:44 and was the most painful thing I'd ever done. 17 months later I did another, more hilly, marathon and got 5:27. My next one is aiming for sub-4, in over a years time and I'm already putting in the groundwork to get there. But any progress is progress. And as I've seen said on this channel before, you either win or you learn 🔥
5:10/mile?!?! That’s insanely fast!!!
Man…that first marathon changes you doesn’t it? I still remember my first one in 2016 and this vid resonated all these years later. Well done bud, you absolutely DESERVED to be there!
Thank you!
I ran my first marathon yesterday and it was tough, I completely emphasise with everything Tom was feeling. However, I met a woman who had done 42(!!) marathons and she told me that time doesn't matter, all that matters is that you complete it!
Man this and Anna's latest video showing the un-fun underside of running have really hit me in the feels.
Sarah: "Do I not get a speaking part in this?" Tom: "No. You are famous and we can't afford you." Tom is too freaking funny omg. Congratulations on the marathon!!
As an average 7’10min/km runner preparing her 1st marathon , it feels good to see people like him. So much relatable ! congrats 🎉
I just cried watching this! I ran my first marathon yesterday in York in 4:15 & the second I crossed the line I burst into tears. The months of training, pride & support of the crowds was overwhelming! Roll on London 2024! 🇬🇧❤️
Well done. And good luck in London. My father in law will be running that one as well. It’s the chance of a lifetime.
Thank you! I feel so lucky to have got a ballot place for London 😀
I ran my first marathon in York on Sunday too, and also burst into tears after finishing (got 4:41!)! Well done on your time and well done for all the perseverance in training! :)
@@klowne26 Well done! 😁 It was such perfect weather and a beautiful course for our first marathons! 🤩
Running a marathon is a journey where you uncover your highs and lows, ultimately leading to a deeper appreciation of life. It's in those moments of being broken that you often discover your true purpose. Well done! 💪🏼
Setting up the sophistication point
My god, what an inspiring story, incredible achievement Tom! I've started running about 2 months ago (partly thanks to this channel) and completed my first 5k without stopping last week. It's gonna be a long journey, but the dream is still to run a marathon one day! This video definitely gave me plenty of motivation to go for my run today 💪🏻
I was exactly where you are last year and just last month completed my first Half. On the days when it’s a grind and I’m asking myself why I got myself into this, I remember the milestones I previously couldn’t hit but wound up smashing. First the 5k, then 10, and soon it will be a marathon. Always amazes me how adaptable and strong our bodies can be with incremental progress along the way.
Well done Tom!! Your journey to, and finishing of this marathon is só inspirational! As a beginner runner, plus sized and almost 40 years old, running 7-8 minute kms, this video makes me believe I might also maybe belong to the world of runners. Next January I turn 40, and next October is the 40th marathon in my local city. I want to run that marathon, but I never felt like I could ever belong there. You, Tom, make me feel I might after all.
Your closing words 'I am now 26,2 miles closer to the person I want to be' hit home for me. I will cherish those words as a mantra. Thank you! And congratulations, you're a superstar!
So proud of you!! 🎉 I cried after my first marathon as well, I think it’s just mandatory. I finished around the same time in Chicago! I’m so upset I missed you two! Congratulations 🎉🎈🍾
Tom, I can honestly say I feel far more inspired by someone like you than the folks who are out there doing it in half the time....I've done half marathons but I've been going back and forth on an attempt at the full forty two, and watching your videos has made me think maybe I can...thanks for letting us share your journey, and huge congrats on getting it done 👍
Run the full 42! You can do it.
Amazing job. For the record Tom, there shouldn't have been anybody else but you there. It are people like you that give me courage it is reachable. We are all runners. Some are faster, some are slower. In the end we do all the same training, we all have the same medal and we probably feel all like sh*t the day after ;-). Keep going, you are a bigger inspiration than you might think!
Tom. You didn’t quit. I’m incredibly proud of you. Thank you for taking us along on your journey. Also to Sarah, thank you for being the warm and supportive teammate to Tom. The rising tide lifts all ships.
Awesome Job! If you run Chicago Marathon again make sure you stop at The BCR (Black Chicago Runners) tent at Mile 20. You will get the fuel you need, from chips, pb&j sandwiches, water, soda and so much more. You walked right by them (14:49). We’re also at mile 24. Congratulations Marathoner! 🏅
We need more of Tom!!!!! He has such a beautiful smile and personality. I have never been this proud of someone I don't even know!!!! Keep going!!!!
I know this probably isn't the place (nor may you see this), but I understand why you say , "running the bridge between who you are and who you want to be", but please don't neglect that you are the person you are right now, which the best version of yourself day by day. Embrace the work you've put in up to this point in this moment right now, the joy you bring to people's lives, and how much you matter right now,. Those things won't change, they're already unquantifiable. Happiness isn't something to strive for, it's something you have right now.
Congratulations Tom! This was epic- what an achievement! I love all the Running Channel videos, but this is the most relatable by far. I ran Amsterdam yesterday, so the feelings are fresh. My wall came at 24k.
Thank you Susan!
Susan, I also joined the struggle bus at 24k at Amsterdam! I felt a pain in my hip which I freaked out about & I had “a moment” but made it to the end. I don’t feel the sense of pride that I should do though, which is sad. But I may come back for more…
I'm not crying, you are crying! Well done, Tom! Congratulations on being a marathoner and thank you so much for taking us on the journey with you. And I loved your WHY, I can relate to that so much!
"Running is the bridge between who I am and who I want to be" 👍
Congratulations Tom! You did it! I loved it when you said “Running was the bridge between who I was and who I want to be” That completely resonated with me, and I’m going to keep that close. ❤ Get plenty of rest and recovery now Tom.
Awsome job Tom!!!! FINISH LINES NOT FINISH TIMES!! The biggest lesson I learned was that PB and pace are a goal that can be disheartening. I embrace the feeling, atmosphere and the thousands of friends you have for a few hours, even if you don’t know their names!!
Great job Tom! Marathons are hard and you did a terrific job. My brother and I ran Chicago in 1986 he hit the wall at 19.5 miles. I pushed him to the finish, his first and last marathon. Sara you were a great running partner, thanks for taking us along.
Amazing! Well done!
It’s so easy to compare yourself to others, to get caught up in times, but a marathon is a marathon and you smashed it.
This is one of the channels best videos. I had the exact same experience in Chicago 2021. It was stupid hot that year and the heat killed me, my time was 6:18 or so. It’s so refreshing to see the slower folks documented like this, awesome job! Congrats.
❤tom I'm running Chicago in about 6 weeks, what an inspiring person, I'm run/ walk due to life getting in the way, but you have inspired me to get out of bed and run and reason to live , thank you Tom, I'm watching this video every day thank you x
I am sitting here crying. What a beautiful, messy journey--and the messy part is what makes this so relatable and emotional. You stuck through it--adjusted your goals and did YOUR race YOUR way. I don't know you personally, but I feel like a friend has just crossed off a major bucket list item. I'm so happy for you!! Congrats!
Tom, this is soooo relatable. My friend Dean got me through Amsterdam on Sunday - I honestly don’t think I’d have finished without him. I also had to come to terms with the fact I wasn’t going to run under 5 hours which was hard. I finished feeling relieved but not proud. I still don’t feel very proud and that sucks, as anyone setting out to do a marathon should feel proud. Proud for putting themselves out there, proud for all the training & proud to have blooming well finished! This video helped me a lot. Thank you for showing the “real” side of running ❤️
Watchigj again in prep for my 1st marathon ever and Chicago. SOOOOO relatable. and why am I crying in my 2nd watch. Thank you Tom!!
What a fantastic video, Tom- super proud of you, you dug deep and achieved your goals, you've really inspired me! I have my first marathon next year and I'll be watching this video several times before it! Sarah, great job supporting Tom, you're awesome! Happy tears all round for this 😃
Thank you Jemma! 🙏
Congratulations Tom! NYC was my first marathon and I'll never forget that feeling of crossing the finish line after struggling and having to walk/run a good portion of last 8 miles. I think I wanted to run 4 hours but ended up doing 4:20. My next marathon I smashed it with a 3:30.
This brought tears to my eyes and fired me up! I'm yet to run a marathon because I've always been so worried about comparing myself to others and looking "slow" out there. Thanks so much Tom for pushing through and proving you can do it. I can't wait to prove to myself I can too!
Phenomenal achievement Tom, congratulations mate. Watched this sat in a restaurant by myself in Belgium. There were tears! But there were smiles too. I love what you said about running being the bridge between the person you are and the person you want to be. That’s exactly how I feel about it. Can’t wait to see you run an ultra in 2024! 😉
I'm proud of you Tom - and kudos to Sarah for running with you all the way for support. I just ran the Long Beach Half Marathon and hit my wall at mile 7. Too much pain all over and conditions were quite hot. I was ready to find an out - but kept walking and finished. Congratulations again Tom.
I LOVED this whole series. Tom, brother, so fucking proud of you.
Wow, you had me in tears Tom. What an incredible run! Thank you for being so honest. It was also great to see other runners in the background digging in on their own personal challenges, in their own ways - so inspiring. No one can take that achievement away from any of you.
Congrats on the marathon finish Tom and thank you sincerely for your thoughts on running. I also feel very much like I don't belong when I'm running. In fact I ran a 10k track race yesterday morning (my first ever) and there were only six people signed up, and I came in 6th, a full 5 minutes after everyone else. I always feel too tall, too big, too silly wearing 4" running shorts. But it's incredibly helpful to hear from folks like you who feel the same way because it reminds me that I'm not alone. That we're not alone! In the end if you're able bodied, have two legs, and can move those legs to push you forward at a steady clip, you're a runner. Congrats again!
Also just ran my first marathon in September of this year and I teared up after they put on the medal around my neck. Congratulations Tom! Well done mate! 👏🏼 loves from Manila Philippines 🇵🇭
Im so glad I wasn't the only one sobbing at the finish line, I think the people handing me water though I was crazy!!
Well done on an epic day in Chicago!!
I’m so so so proud of you TOM!!!! You did it! You are amazing! I still wish I was able to meet you and Sarah in person. Can’t wait for what’s next! Go go go Tom!!!!
Legends!! Nice to bump into you both earlier. I wanna see Tom wear that top at Clapham parkrun.
Tom this is one of best marathon vlogs I have ever watched. Love it. Totally can relate to how you felt at the end. In 2018 I damaged my achilles and it was bad, out for 6 months, started running again in January 2019 building up to Brighton marathon in April same year and cracked the 4 hour mark, 3-58-56, and from nowhere the tears flowed. Not ashamed to admit it, it meant alot to complete in it as I wasn't sure I would ever run again and to hit the sub 4 hours my A goal....well it went to plan.
I've watched so many of these "my first marathon videos" but this was genuinely one of the most relatable ones. Literally made me cry when I heard Tom say "i'm so proud of myself". FANTASTIC job, Tom!
Tom’s face at the finish line choked me up!
Well done. Love seeing people complete their first marathons!
This video has truly inspired me. I started running at the age of 53, now 62. Done multiple Halfs, but the marathon scares me to death. Watching this I know I can do it. Thank you Tom.
That moment of the why, was truly beautiful. Brought a tear to my eye. Well done Tom, what an achievement 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
WOW - great capturing of Tom's emotions at the finish... sincere tears of happiness
Crying with you, Tom! Beyond incredible effort, so so proud of you, and what makes this even more inspiring is that so many of us can relate, my favorite TRC video so far!
Love watching Tom, I'm about to finish Couch to 5k and watching his journey has been so inspirational. I love watching the speedsters too but Tom is just so relatable. Massive well done mate, you smashed it.
Man... your comment about imposter syndrome got me.
I ran my first marathon this year Nov 2024- it was virtual in my neighborhood. It took me almost 3 years to get the ability to run one.I would have finished around 4 hours 20 min, but at mile 19 I crashed. I finished 4:37. Still proud of my time. My only goal was to run the whole thing, even if it was a slow shuffle, but i couldn't. I signed up for an in person marathon in may. The buffalo marathon. I'm hoping to do better, but its a long race and anything can happen. The only way to get better is to keep doing it. I feel like i have a different appreciation of life after running 26.2 miles. The impossible seems possible
Man, thank you for your transparency. I'm proud of you and thankful for this video. Congratulations on running your first of many! 🎉
Absolutely love this kind of content from The Running Channel. Helping all of us be runners. Thank you so much, and keep it coming!
Congratulations Thomas, well done for finished first marathon regardless of completion time. Everyone who finished a marathon is a warrior looking at scale towards general population! My first marathon in mid Dec this year hopefully I'm able to complete it without any injury!
His experience is so relatable! I appreciate all the videos I've watched of the others in this channel running a marathon, but this experience is the closest one to my own.
Well done, Tom ♥ This video (along with others) is the reason I've just signed up for my first half marathon. Argh, I have you to blame for this.
I havent committed even to myself yet to do a marathon, but I can feel it sitting there waiting. I started running at 53yo, and ive loved it, and striving for a 10km run (no walks) at present. Enjoying and taking it easy so i do enooy it.
I really enjoy this channel and the community in and around it. People like you (Tom) as well as Sarah, Andy, Rick, Anna, Mo, all the team make up an inspiring group among whom everyone can find relatable experiences.
I cried with you in the end, this is very relateable to my journey. I am doing my first halft in september 2024 so I have lots of time to train and doing a few shorter races before. This made me feel like I can do it because I relate to alot of things you said here!
Congratulations it was an amazing day, the beer and dance at the end 👌 what it’s all about, one of the best videos you’ve all done
Freaken awesome video guys. I still get emotional when I think back to my first mamrathon in Melbourne 2017.
Finally a video that's not a sub 3 hr marathon, which is not reasonably achievable for most people, Tom's pace is relatable
Glad you enjoyed it!
I got so emotional watching you run the final bit and crossing the finish line! Massive congratulations! And to Sara being such an encouraging running partner - we should be so lucky to have a friend like you!
TOM! That was so amazing. I've been loving watching you train for this, and seeing you cross the finish line, was just inspirational! So happy for you, you did it! :D
Very well done! I know all of the feelings and all the emotions you went through including the crying after the finish line. I did my 8th last week in Eindhoven and it is an adventure and accomplishment every time you finish a marathon. Congratulations 🎉
That was lovely, you did so well Tom. Such a hard test of a human, and you conquered it.
Huge congratulations Tom! I’ve loved following your journey, and it’s inspired me to think about maybe running my first marathon. You should be very proud of yourself!
Congratulation Tom,… love this video, love the expression after reaching finish line, understood it was not easy Tom,😅 you just made it, kudos !!
Absolutely amazing, Tom! Well done. Also props for Sarah to be your moral support. I still have to run my first marathon. Did my second half marathon yesterday in Amsterdam. Just the feeling it gives you after you crossed the finish line is something you can not describe. Well done once again!!
Well done Tom - and shows how far Sarah has come since the start that she can jog along and coach
Well done Tom, what an amazing achievement! You should be incredibly proud of yourself. Can’t wait to see where your running journey takes you
Well done Tom, there is many a day when people think they could do a marathon, but you now have a whole life, knowing you did.
What a zinger of a recap! Got all the feels watching this but Tom really nails it when he says that running is the bridge between who he is and the person he wants to be. I've been struggling to put in words why I enjoy running, which I've also rather recently picked up, but that encapsulates it.
I've watched this like 100x in preparation for Sunday's 2024 Chicago Marathon. Thanks Tom and Sara!
My first marathon (RnR San Diego 2021) was hard and grueling as I had to push through a knee niggle all 26 miles and so I felt every step, up and downs you did here. San Diego is hard because on mile 9 the Half splits off and then after the half you are running on a bike road and it feels like you are alone until mile 24 coming back into the city center.
Congrats to a goal achieved and looking forward to more marathon reports.
Amazing Tom! Congratulations! What an amazing achievement. I did Chicago in a time of 5:40 and loved the course, but at the same time went through some very low points. I love all of the running channel videos, but this one I really related to. My goal is to run a sub 5 hour marathon too, and would be love to see more videos following the progress that you make.
Tom I was literally crying right along with you!! I'm training for my first marathon and all of these videos are helping me. Congratulations Tom!!
Congratulations Tom. A truly incredible achievement! I also ran Chicago 2023 and your video brought back a lot of cherished memories! You done brilliant mate, you’re a marathoner! Superstar!
Cried so much at the end. Congrats Tom for finishing your first marathon. You did it! You completed it 🎉
Amazing work Tom! I'm nowhere near the marathon distance at the moment (aiming for a half-marathon in 6 months and haven't even hit 10K yet), but it was powerful to be with you every mile in this video. That last push and crossing the finish made me excited to being a runner. To get to do things and feel things just like that.
I loved what you said about running as a bridge from who you are to who you want to be. You can be whoever you want to be when you believe you can, but those are easy words to type and the getting to the "believe you can" bit is where it gets tough. Showing yourself that you're capable of hard things, especially things you might not have thought yourself capable of, is transformative. That's what builds the bridge and makes you believe.
Tom you are amazing. I just completed my first marathon in Melbourne and I felt every feeling you did along the way I had a good cry alongside you. Congratulations on becoming a marathoner!!
Congratulations Tom. I love seeing the struggle everyone goes through. So many videos minimize it and make us normal runners doubt what we are doing or capable of.
Tom you are my inspiration. I'm about a month out from my first marathon and I felt your pain and joy watching your first marathon. Well done! You can do anything!
Tom bloody inspirational! I've got my first marathon at Manchester in 2024 and you've made me all excited to have that same feeling when I finish it. Can't lie when I saw you finishing brought a tear to my eye!
Also I completely feel you when you talk about comparing yourself to others, it always feels like someone is faster!
Oh my gosh. All the LOVE!! So proud of you, Tom. I appreciate your authenticity SO MUCH. Thanks for inspiring all of us normal runners to push ourselves out of our comfort zones.
I've only just watched this and want to say a belated congratulations to Tom and Sarah ❤. I was crying watching you cross the finish line! Xxx
Tom thank you for uploading this! I've got London next year which will be my first ever marathon. I am absolutely terrified/excited. You have inspired me that I can possibly complete it too! Thank you so much and well done!
Well done Tom. It's hard, really hard. I just completed my first marathon over this past weekend, and I thought I was pretty well prepared. But I definitely hit the wall at mile 18. Just the sheer onslaught of my legs and feet being pounded for the entire distance stopped me. But I went on to finish it.
Congratulations Tom!!! This is by far the best Chicago Marathon 2023 video I have seen. I am looking at running my first marathon next year and your experience is so inspiring!!! Thank you.
Great job Tom! This made me cry! I'm so proud of you. I loved getting to watch someone who isn't a high level runner complete their first marathon! I'm running my first in April and am just hoping to finish. You are such an inspiration!
Yesterday I ran my first ever Half-Marathon and it was such a pain, but such a pleasure aswell. I have a HUGE respect for everyone, who runs those 42k. Tom, you´re such an inspiration with this video. I will run my first marathon next year - this video is / was a big point for me to finally make that decision to do this.
OMG Tom this was amazing and really inspiring! I’m hoping to do my first half, and this is really making me feel like maybe I can do it after watching this.
Well done Tom. I love all the presenters at the Running Channel but your marathon reflects most of the marathons I've run back of the pack. Can't wait to see your next goal.
Brilliant Tom!!!! I have cried at the end of every one of my 15 marathons - but as they say, “You never forget your first time!”
Loved seeing the highs and lows - very genuine portrayal of the marathon experience.
Cant wait to see what you do next!!
I ran Chicago marathon last year as my first marathon and I relived my race through you today. It was an awesome experience with all the crowds and people. I also had great plans but wound up bonking at 18 miles. That is the farthest I had run in training and I think it was more mental than physical. That portion of the race is the least crowded with spectators and that made it easier to convince myself to walk. I made it though and ran the last couple miles. Great experience and truly emotional. I’m so proud of you! Keep it up to become the person you want to be. You can do it!
Tom incredible realism documenting your first marathon - always the hardest I am sure your shared experience will inspire many others to follow in your footsteps 👏😁
Congrats, Tom, have tears of joy for you. Thank you for sharing your journey with us all. Nobody can take this away from you!