When lockdown descended in early 2020, the marathon world ground to a halt. In the Age Group World Rankings, we have begun to see the green shoots of recovery.
The AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group world rankings hit pause in March as events around the world were postponed or cancelled.
The inaugural AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Championships is now set for 3 October 2021 and will feature the top age-group runners from both the first and second edition of qualifying. The best of the best will descend on London for a marathon that will definitely be worth waiting for.
One woman hoping to run in London next year for her eighth time, but the first time as part of a world championship, is Christine McCarthy from the United Kingdom.
“Running is now a part of who I am,” she says. “I love training and coaching at my local club, Pontefract AC. COVID has devastated the racing calendar this year but I personally haven’t lacked motivation, though I know many others have.”
Not a big fan of virtual races and eager to add another marathon to her resume, Christine headed to the Rightmove Milton Keynes Marathon Reimagined for an unusual but successful race experience.
She adds: “This was the closest thing to racing in my local area so I signed up, downloaded the race app, and really enjoy the course. My biggest challenge was carrying my own water but it was great to be back out there racing.”
Christine’s performance in Milton Keynes puts her in a strong position for a place in the 60-64 age category in London next year.
She says: “To represent the UK at the world championships in London would be a huge honor. It would be a very proud moment indeed.”
Story courtesy of AbbottWMM