The big day is finally here - the London Marathon 2021.
After the popular race was transformed into a virtual event in 2020 owing to the coronavirus pandemic, this year's run has been pushed back from its usual April slot to the first Sunday in October in order to see thousands of runners take to the famous course.
Sunday, October 3 will see dozens of athletes set off from Blackheath followed by more than 40,000 fun-runners taking on the course for themselves and the benefit of charities across the world.
And once again, we have runners from our area ready to take on the 26.2-mile course with big ambitions of reaching the finish line on The Mall in good time.
From everyone at the County Times, we wish you all the very best.
Gareth Jones
And finally, Gareth Jones is running in memory of his grandfather in aid of Parkinson's UK.
Mr Jones, who lives in Llanymynech but is originally from Welshpool, said it was a cause that was close to his heart.
"Parkinson’s UK not only supports people and their families with this disease but also is continually researching to try a find a cure," he said.
"My Grandad suffered for many years from Parkinson’s disease so the charity I am running for is close to my heart."
Gareth says if anyone wants to add to his total, they can do so online at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/GarethJones238
Lucy Jones
Lucy Jones, who works at Llandrinio Post Office, will be lining up on the start line in aid of the Breast Cancer Research charity - and the challenge takes on extra significance as mum Margaret is a breast cancer survivor.
Margaret Jones, who also works at the post office in Llandrinio, was hit with the devastating diagnosis 20 years ago this year - and is so determined to help her daughter fundraise that she's dyed her hair pink in support of her challenge.
"It will be 20 years this winter since I first discovered a lump in my breast and was subsequently diagnosed with breast cancer," said Margaret.
"Lucy was just 11 when this devastated our lives, but thanks to the skill and care of the medical profession and the love and support of my amazing family I am still here to tell the tale!
"Lucy has applied for a place in the London marathon several times, so was so pleased to be accepted for this year's marathon, and glad that it was only postponed from April, rather than cancelled, and is now determined to raise as much as she can for this worthwhile charity."
Anyone wishing to donate to Lucy's cause can do so online here: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LucyJones113
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