Thursday, March 30, 2006
Telegraph
Posted at: 11:50
Not me, obviously, but those in the public eye who have bravely decided to have a crack at the marathon in the knowledge they are far more like to find their sweaty, panting selves in the glare of the television than mere, mortal runners.
It's a weird thing, the cult of the celebrity runner. While I wholeheartedly cheer on anyone who decides to take on the marathon, regardless of their proficiency or otherwise, or indeed their fundraising inclinations, there's a definite pecking order when it comes to the celebrities I would be comfortable being beaten by.
And it seems I'm not the only one.
There are various lists of this year's runners and ridders here and here, which have generated much debate on the forums of Runners World. The general consensus seems to be that anyone of a sporting inclination, whatever the discipline, who takes part is applauded, while film, television and soap stars receive more muted, if any, praise.
Which means my 'list', such as it is, is fairly obvious. Beaten by sporting gods such as Sir Steve Redgrave and Matthew Pinsent? Completely expected, so therefore more than happy.
Runners of the calibre of fiery chef Gordon Ramsey, who will be taking part in his seventh London Marathon and has clocked up some impressive times in the past? Again, more than happy to bow down to his superiority.
But some of the less fit soap/reality television stars? Not so happy.
I can empathise with the runner, mentioned in a previous post, who fought a running battle to beat former children's television presenter Floella Benjamin from mile 16 of a previous London Marathon.
I would like to come in ahead of former
Big Brother star Jade Goody, if only that I want to believe that I can endure the rigours of 26.2 tough miles better than someone who is essentially famous for having no general knowledge and then becoming celebrity magazine fodder.
I'm aware that has no impact on sporting ability, or indeed application to a task, and I'm sure she's a lovely girl - but in an ideal world, I'd still like to beat her.
And yes, I am aware that's completely irrational logic.
Same too for Zoe Salmon, the Blue Peter presenter, who says on her blog that she had only run eight miles before attempting her first half marathon 11 days ago. I've trained more than that - only because my programme told me too - and so again I feel, all things being fair, that I should come in ahead of her.
But, of course, all things aren't fair, and while I've trained hard, I probably had a lower starting point in terms of my fitness base and the amount of excess weight carried than a lot of the people mentioned here.
So my final prayer is not to be beaten by someone dressed as a womble. And if I am, that the photo taken as I cross the finish line hides that fact. Thank you.
