The London Marathon has a very special place in my heart and I have many proud and happy memories from my participation in the race five times. Sadly my running days are well and truly over.
Yesterday I decided to head down to London and capture the Elite athletes with my camera. The plan was to head to Tower Bridge and use that as a backdrop to my photos, however even catching the first train out of Derby and arriving at Tower Bridge by 9.15, it soon became apparent that the best spots are restricted to accredited photographers. I did have high hopes for accreditation but my application was rejected at the last moment.
Not one to give up easily I moved to the 22 mile point and secured a prime position with another photographer who was from France. We guarded our position and the wait was well worth it. We captured all of the elite athletes as they headed towards the 22 mile marker.
This photo was one of my favourite images from the day with the point that Mutiso Munyao (Race Winner) breaks Kenenisa Bekele and goes on to win the mens race today.
I always try to capture the faces of the athletes in whatever sport I photograph and the look on Bekele’s face was one of realisation that he would probably have to settle for second place. The athletes are just incredible and I have such respect for them all.
First 2 British men to cross the finish line. Emile Cairess (GBR) - 3rd Place and Mahmed Mohamed (GBR) - 4th Place. - that says a lot for UKs high hopes for the up coming Olympic Games.
The Elite Women's race was equally thrilling. I didn't manage to capture good images of the eventual race winner who was tucked in behind race runner up Assefa. I did capture images of some of the greatest runners in history though which added to a great days sport photography.
The same goes for the wheelchair athletes who are superhuman in my opinion!!! I captured most of them including race winner Marcel Hug,
Catherine Debrunner - the determination in her face is the look of a determination expected of a champion.
And who can’t be inspired by our own David Weir who was high on my list to capture. 24 years racing and still able to compete at the highest levels.
I wanted to capture the Charity runners and mass participants but the crowds were overwhelming and I decided to just enjoy the occasion with a view to trying again next year. The support from around the course is absolutely electric and I admit it does raise the emotions, if you haven't been to support then you really should and if you haven't tried competing then, if you are able too, you should complete the event at least once in your lifetime .... you will be surprised at what you are capable of and the experience is something that will last a lifetime.
For more of my images from an amazing event see my website album here: https://dunnm488.wixstudio.io/2024-london-marathon
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark_dunn_photography
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