Paul Hing, Bishopsgate Accounts Administrator since 2004 was over the moon when his entry was accepted to run the 2013 London Marathon. Paul began training in 2012 and just a week before the start he caught a flu virus and sadly had to pull out!
Paul successfully managed to defer his entry for a year to run in the 2014 London Marathon and training began again in earnest in autumn 2013. You can’t imagine Pauls’ disappointment when he then seriously injured his knee in training and had to pull out for the second time less than 4 weeks before the start.
Following a throw away remark made by Paul to Tim Bloch, Bishopsgate’s MD, “You can run in my place if you like” Tim considered it! Tim ran to work (20 miles) that Friday to test his body and then took the plunge agreeing to run!
After a short training period Tim managed to complete the run in 5 hrs. 15 mins. Although he had set himself a target of 5 hours Tim sighted the lack training, not being a runner, and admitted to seriously struggling after 20 miles. I guess the Swindon Depot staff get together the night before at the Purton Social Club was also not good preparation the night before.
Tim enjoyed the day and suggests anyone thinking of running 26.2 miles to ensure at least 4 months training. When asked Tim commented, “I was just so glad that I could step in for my colleague and so thankful to Paul for the opportunity”
Paul commented, “Meeting Tim at the start I was just so gutted that I couldn’t run. It was a great day and at least I was able to support all the runners, especially my wife Paula who finished in a personal best 4 hours 15 minutes.”
