Keep On Running

Marathons make you miserable, but they also give you the most unlikely and the most indescribable pleasures. It’s a world that I love – a world unlocked when you dress up in lycra, put plasters on your nipples and run 26.2 miles in the company of upwards of 30,000 complete strangers.

Read the Clarendon Marathon chapter

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Phil Hewitt, who has completed over 20 marathons in conditions ranging from blistering heat to snow and ice, in locations from Berlin to New York, sets a cracking pace in this light-hearted account of his adventures on the road. This story of an ordinary guy’s addiction to running marathons looks at the highs and lows, the motivation that keeps you going when your body is crying out to stop, and tries to answer the ultimate question, ‘Why do you do it?’

'A charismatic, charming, funny – and, above all, thoughtful – memoir about running, motivation, ambition. Perfect, not just for those who do run – or intend to run – a marathon, but for the hundreds and thousands of us who venture out from time to time to run just a mile or two... A complete delight.'
Kate Mosse, author and broadcaster

‘This is a wonderful and frank view of a first-time-marathoner-turned-running-addict. Phil shares the pitfalls and emotions that running a marathon for the first time evoke and how running can grab you and draw you back for more.’

Liz Yelling, Double Olympian and Commonwealth bronze medallist

‘Wry, realistic and endlessly enthusiastic. A lovely reminder both of what seductive fun marathon running can be and why I gave it up.’

Stephen Brenkley, cricket correspondent for The Independent

‘An intriguing insight into one man’s marathon journey… an inspiring read for any marathoner or wannabe marathoner.’

Andi Jones, international long-distance runner

‘a beautiful description of one man’s passion for the open road, powered by rock ’n’ roll.’

Jo Pavey, international track and field athlete

‘The pain, perils and utter pleasure of the formidable 26.2 miles by someone who has gone every step of the way… 25 times. Warning: you will seriously want to run a marathon after reading this.’

Rosie Millard, journalist, author and broadcaster

‘Phil Hewitt’s highly entertaining Keep on Running reminded me of my own marathon experiences – the inevitable suffering followed by elation at finally crossing the finishing line. It is a must-read for all runners, particularly those contemplating a marathon for the first time.’

Anna Nicholas, author and journalist

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