I’m proud to have come last at the London Marathon

I m proud to have come – Clair Roberts, a London Marathon participant from Milton Keynes, shared her pride in becoming the final finisher of the event. Despite completing the race in 12 hours and 16 minutes—just before midnight—she described the experience as a “huge privilege” for supporting a charity that played a pivotal role in saving her life during a challenging period.

Personal Triumph and Charity Commitment

The 35-year-old has raised over £2,000 for Samaritans, a suicide prevention organization she now volunteers with. Her connection to the charity began seven years ago when she reached out during a time of profound emotional struggle. “I plunged into very dark times, but one phone call changed everything,” she said, reflecting on the support she received. This bond with Samaritans has driven her to dedicate her time to helping others in crisis, a mission she continues to pursue through answering calls as a volunteer.

“I was battling a lot of emotions on Sunday; it was so much harder than I thought it would be. But to be the last person to cross that line feels really special, and I’m proud of myself,” Roberts added.

Challenges Beyond the Race

Roberts faced more than just the physical demands of the marathon. In the weeks leading up to the event, she battled a viral infection and sustained injuries that tested her resolve. “You can prepare and prepare, but if it doesn’t come together on race day, it’s a very tough experience,” she explained. While she had previously completed a half-marathon, this was the first time she pushed her body to its limits. Her determination, however, was fueled by a personal reminder: if she could endure her darkest moments, she could also finish the race.

“I want to show others that there is always hope,” she said, emphasizing her belief in resilience.

Support from the Back of the Pack

Roberts’ achievement was made possible by the support of four tailwalkers, volunteers who accompany the slowest runners. These individuals, affectionately known as the “back of the pack,” help guide participants to the secondary finish line at St James’s Park, which is used by those who take longer than eight hours to complete the course. The presence of these volunteers ensures that no runner is left alone in their journey, providing encouragement as the crowd thins and the roads reopen.

Tailwalkers were introduced five years ago following criticism of the 2019 marathon for its treatment of slower runners. Jo Gennari, an NHS worker, was a key figure in establishing this support system after she experienced the “horrific” conditions as a pacer for runners who were teased by contractors. “It’s such a joy and a privilege to lead the tailwalker team. We know how hard those participants work to complete the 26.2 miles on the pavement as the crowds thin,” Gennari said. Her team’s efforts highlight the importance of community in the marathon experience.

Building a Supportive Community

Shreena Kotecha has spent the past few years enhancing the experience for slower runners, founding a group called Team Finish Together. Her personal journey includes running the 2022 marathon in approximately eight hours, but she was struck by the lack of enthusiasm from spectators as the race neared its end. This inspired her to create a movement that celebrates the final finishers, ensuring their hard work is recognized and valued.

“Witnessing the sheer joy and emotion on the faces of these participants as they crossed the line, knowing they had an entire community cheering them on, was truly inspiring,” Kotecha shared. “It’s powerful to see them being celebrated as the endurance champions they are, and it reminds us that the marathon is about more than just speed; it’s about courage, community, and achieving something extraordinary together.”

The initiative underscores the broader significance of the London Marathon as a platform for personal and collective triumph. For those who finish last, the race becomes a testament to perseverance, with every step symbolizing a victory over adversity. Roberts’ story resonates with this theme, illustrating how physical challenges can mirror emotional struggles and how support systems play a vital role in overcoming both.

A Message of Hope and Inspiration

Sonya Trivedy, executive director of external engagement at Samaritans, praised Roberts for her impact on the charity’s mission. “Clair is a true inspiration, both as a runner and a Samaritans listening volunteer, and her incredible spirit was clear for all to see on Sunday,” Trivedy said. The executive highlighted that finishing last in a marathon isn’t a failure but an extended celebration of achievement, emphasizing the value of every runner’s journey.

The London Marathon’s secondary finish line at St James’s Park serves as a symbol of inclusivity, allowing participants to complete the course with dignity and support. Roberts’ final moments, though hard-fought, were a reminder that the race’s essence lies not in the time it takes to finish, but in the courage it takes to begin. Her story, paired with the efforts of tailwalkers and advocates like Kotecha, highlights the transformative power of community and the enduring hope that drives individuals to push beyond their limits.

For many, the marathon is more than a sporting event—it’s a personal milestone, a celebration of resilience, and a platform for sharing stories of perseverance. Clair Roberts’ experience, though unique, reflects the shared journey of all participants, from the fastest to the slowest. Her pride in being the last to cross the line is a testament to the human spirit, proving that even in the face of obstacles, there is always a path forward.

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