I thought the important thing was to win if you can? I mean, who the hell would want to finish second!!! ;) Did you actually do the run or were you the lucky one with the camera, @zvezda51?
I, myself, used to run quarter marathons as a kid which got worse as I got older (as I trained less due to lazyness / complacency). I'd love to do a London marathon but have just missed this year's. Either way, I've only quit smoking 6 months ago and put on a fair few pounds so it's for the best, I guess, if I wait at least another twelve months - getting super-fit in the process (I'm back at the gym).
Of course, if I never do a marathon, I doubt I'd be too upset. :D
Ps. Joking aside, I totally agree with your title.
You have a great willpower, so you will succeed! I also recently started to play sports . I made a post about it. So I understand how hard it is. And I support you!
I myself did not run. My niece took part in the marathon. She studies at a medical college, and her participation was compulsory.