OLIVER HOLT: So much of life is about division. The London Marathon is a glorious antidote to all...

I have to admit that I am not a particularly athletic person, especially when it comes to running. This was definitely the case when I participated in the TCS London Marathon last Sunday.

During my extensive run, I finally caught up with a man who was carrying a refrigerator on his back at Narrow Street located in Limehouse, which was more than 15 miles into the course. At the end of the race, I apprehended that I was outdone by a pair of individuals who were wearing a camel costume and had spent the entire competition with their backs bent.

I considered feeling proud of my time, which was a few minutes faster than Sir Jim Ratcliffe's new record, but then I realized that Sir Jim is 14 years older than me. Furthermore, he attended an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley right after completing his race, while I went straight to bed at my hotel and remained motionless for several hours.

When I woke up yesterday morning, I still felt fortunate. It was partly because of the accomplishment I felt after running 26.2 miles without any breaks, and partly because it felt like a small victory over the physical obstacles that I haven't had to face much in my life.

Above all, I felt fortunate since participating in the London Marathon might cause my knees to ache, legs to stiffen, and my mind to object. However, it also provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness one of the most exceptional and uplifting events. It's like having the best seat in the stadium.

with a big smile on his face. He crossed the finish line with determination and exhaustion, but the sense of accomplishment made it all worth it. Oliver Holt, our hero, is radiating joy as he finishes the arduous London Marathon. Though he's worn out and weary, his hard work and persistence pay off in a feeling of pride and fulfilment.

The city implemented road closures that stretched for miles, and the entire 26.2 mile route was lined with security railings. Police were present along the roads as a precautionary measure, due to the potential for disruptions caused by protestors.

At the beginning of the TCS London Marathon, a rival appeared in a costume that resembled a Minion.

I have participated in marathons in New York, Chicago, and Berlin, but they were slow runs. Although each marathon had its own unique qualities, none of them were able to match the vibrant energy of our capital city's streets on Sunday morning and afternoon.

As a sports enthusiast, it's clear that I have not encountered a vibe in this nation that is as cheerful, optimistic, and jubilant as the feeling of unity during the London Olympics.

In today's world, there's a lot of emphasis on separation and hostility. However, the London Marathon serves as a brilliant remedy for these issues.

The amount of assistance during the journey, starting at Blackheath, continuing past the Cutty Sark, going through Southwark and the chaos of people at Tower Bridge, circling around Canary Wharf, and heading to the final destination along the Embankment and Parliament Square, always stayed consistently high.

The kindness and motivation shown by many individuals towards complete strangers during sporting events is truly heartwarming. They cheer loudly, offer sweets from their personal containers, provide sliced oranges, and show humorous signs - usually referencing the celebratory drinks to come after the event - all in an effort to boost spirits and morale.

Running the London Marathon for four hours is completely different from spending four hours on social media. It gives you the chance to witness the goodness of human nature. For four hours, you'll observe individuals conveying their affection towards their loved ones and dear friends.

For four hours, individuals honor their loved ones who have passed away. This includes reminiscing about spouses, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, and other family members.

Observing individuals sprinting in memory of their loved ones and willingly subjecting themselves to a challenging experience to commemorate those memories is also highly inspiring.

I had a lot of people cheering me on during the race, thanks in large part to a man named Ollie. He seemed to be well-known throughout London and ran just a few yards behind me for a good portion of the race. His name was printed on his shirt, which made it easy for people to recognize him and shout out his name in support.

Aged 71, Jim Ratcliffe, who owns a small percentage of Manchester United, participated in his eighth London Marathon. This happened just a few hours before the Red Devils played against Coventry in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.

The assistance I received during my second participation in the Great North Run didn't quite measure up to what I had experienced in my first year.

As I ran through the initial few miles, individuals shouted out my name with great fervor and gusto. I recall feeling taken aback that my coverage of football games had garnered such a positive and lively following in the Northern region of the UK.

I didn't spot pop sensation Olly Murs until we had left Gateshead and I glanced back to see him walking a few meters away, greeting the audience with waves.

On Sunday, my friend named Paul accompanied me during the initial half of the race, despite having the ability to run at a quicker pace. Doing so put him at risk of failing to reach his goal of completing the race within four hours.

One of my kids expressed that they love London Marathon day because of the festive atmosphere. They joined me at Tower Bridge and later at the Embankment to spectate. Needless to say, getting a hug from my child was the best part of my day.

As I progressed, I noticed onlookers shouting out to their companions or kin, hollering words of support, sprinters dashing towards the curb, wrapping their arms around their dear ones.

If you don't feel emotional witnessing some of the displays of loyalty that occur before you, then you must lack compassion.

In the London Marathon, an impressive 50,000 runners, including famous individuals and politicians, participated by racing throughout the city.

My legs are still achy and my body feels a bit disoriented from all the salt tablets, overly sugary gels, Nurofen Plus medication, energy drinks, and Jelly Babies I consumed towards the end of the race. However, this sensation will eventually fade.

Hardly anyone could overtake Emile Cairess, who now holds the title for the second-fastest British male runner in the race, next to Sir Mo Farah. This is a crucial event in an Olympic year.

On the Isle of Dogs, there is a sign on the road that serves as a reminder to keep going despite the urge to quit. The sign reads: "The discomfort will pass, but the memories will last a lifetime."