Great Britain’s David Weir (featured on episode 19 of the Maximise Potential Podcast) won the wheelchair race at the London Marathon for a record-equalling sixth time. The 32-year-old won a sprint finish to take the title in 1:32:26 and equal Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson’s record.
“This is my favourite win ever because the field was so strong,” Weir told BBC Radio 5 live.
Weir beat Switzerland’s Marcel Hug by a second, with American Krige Schabort a further second adrift.
However, with increasing family commitments, the 32-year-old suggested Sunday’s London Marathon could be his last.
“Maybe,” Weir said. “I’ve got an eight-month-old baby boy and I’ve got another one on the way in October, so I need a bit of time at home.
“There’s not a lot of goals left. I’ll definitely take a year out after the [Paralympics] because I want to spend some time with my family.”
The Londoner admitted it was a “great privilege” to match Grey-Thompson, whom Weir described as a role model.
“She was the one who got me back into the sport when I had a little dip,” said Weir.
“I wasn’t enjoying the sport but watching her in Sydney [at the 2000 Olympics] brought me back, so it is great to equal her record.
“I was quite emotional when I crossed the line because it could be my last one for a while.”
Woods, 26, finished almost three minutes ahead of Japan’s Wakako Tsuchida, while Canadian Diane Roy took third.
“I’m really happy,” Woods told BBC Radio 5 live. “I can’t believe it.
“To win a Paralympic gold medal is my ambition as an athlete. If I could do it in London would be amazing. I wouldn’t say I’m now favourite for a Paralympic gold but that’s the ambition in my career.”
Well done David, from everyone at Maximise Potential!
FURTHER INFORMATION
- Click here to view more inspiring articles and resources on David Weir
- Click here to listen to the motivating interview with David Weir
Article Source: bbc.co.uk
Hi, I'm Jenna Affleck, co-producer of the Maximise Potential Podcast.
I'm really excited about being part of Maximise Potential. It's great being able to help other people be successful in life and it's also helping me maximise my own potential. The inspiring people we interview gives me the motivation to aim higher whether it be in my personal life or career and hope it does the same for you too.
So keep smiling and enjoy the podcast! 