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Michael's Magnificent Marathon!

Invicta East Kent AC’s long-standing volunteer Treasurer, Michael Gallyer-Barnet showed his real dedication to his club as he ran the London Marathon virtually last weekend in club colours!  

Despite the lack of crowds to push him through, Michael shaved an incredible 11 minutes and 35 seconds off his personal best - a time he set 11 years ago in London and he was able to beat it at his third attempt.  

It cannot be easy running a marathon on your own and particularly setting such a huge PB. Michael was supported by his friend Simon Goldsmith who cycled alongside him providing drinks and gels while fellow Invicta athlete Helena Millard ran the first half with Michael. 

Publicity Officer Claire Battersby said ‘Michael gives so much to the club as a volunteer on the committee, managing the club’s finances and is incredibly committed to his training so this result is very well deserved. We are all delighted for him! Well done Michael and huge thanks to Simon and Helena for supporting him!’

In addition, we had four other fantastic athletes take part in the London Marathon. Michael Rigden ran as a club place and finished in 3:23.39; a brilliant personal best for him. Michael Mawby finished in a time of 2:52.36 making him Invicta’s fastest marathon runner this year. Andrew Gibbens finished in 3:40.22; a personal best for him, while Nick Chappell finished in 3:58.29 despite tearing a muscle and limping round – he was just 8 minutes off his personal best.  

Huge well done to you all!!