On 12th December 2025, I took part in the Phoenix Events Christmas Jumper Run. This flexible lapped and timed event allows for a variety of options, and as always I arrived for a marathon. This was my last marathon of 2025, really this time. So, just some stats for 2025. 17 marathons, 13 as a pacer, and 9 sub 4 marathons (damn it I wish I realised this statistic before running the marathon). So at the end of the year it brings me to 178 Marathon (plus) and my 132nd time as an official pacer (including 69 marathons).
Having said I was done for the year, I couldn’t help a nice relaxed run to end the year. I love the flexible approach at phoenix running events and to be honest, if I drove I would come to more. I arrived with no time in mind, just a casual run.
I started off at a nice 4 hour marathon pace which felt comfortable. 8 laps for a marathon and this was a busy and popular run on the tow path. On my second lap I crossed paths with Gary Dixon, which was a nice surprise. I kept up my 4 hour pace, passing half way in 1:58, and managed to catch him up to run a more relaxed lap with Gary.
We slowed slightly and then I stopped for the toilet. Having decided to get back on my bike, I had done an 11 day streak of at least 20 minutes spinning every day. After 6 laps and stopping for the toilet I certainly felt this on my quads.
I decided to take it easier for the final few laps, bringing my pace down, finishing in 4:41:24.
It was a great run. 4 laps (half marathon) at sub 4 pace. A couple of enjoyable laps with Gary, and a couple of slower laps myself to finish the marathon. Now ready to “carb load” over Christmas.
pickupthepacepaul 