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| Link to LB of Brent web site |
"The first twenty miles of the Marathon had 'no very striking features', according to a description in 'The Times' on the day of the race, but this changed at Sudbury:
"... It is here, five miles from home, where the tramlines begin, that the runners will meet with the severest test of their endurance. Because of their inelasticity, wood blocks are particularly trying to the feet, and the glitter on the polished surface of the road, if the sun happens to be shining, will be apt to make a man who has travelled over 20 miles at top speed turn more than a little dizzy.
The hills, though none of them are really severe, are steeper and longer than anywhere else on the course, and the 22nd, 23rd and 24th miles are by far the most punishing part of the race. After that, when the Jubilee Clock Tower, just short of Willesden Junction, has been passed, the road drops once more, and the final run in across Wormwood-scrubs and down a lane at the back of the Stadium is easier going."
"... At Sudbury, Charles Hefferon of South Africa had a four minute lead, but the crowds through Wembley and Stonebridge Park watched a fascinating race, as Pietro Dorando of Italy ran hard to close the gap, with three Americans not far behind him.
"By Harlesden, the leader's margin was down to two minutes, but soon afterwards Hefferon developed stomach cramps, and slowed to a walk (he told a reporter later: 'I accepted a draught of champagne. It was a great mistake.').
"Dorando passed him with just a mile to go. ..."
Link to LB of Brent web site
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