Former Arsenal midfielder and Wales captain Aaron Ramsey has completed the London Marathon in a remarkable time of 3 hours and 30 seconds, just weeks after announcing his retirement from professional football.
The 35-year-old, who ended his playing career earlier this month, joined 59,000 runners on Sunday for the world-famous race. He finished the first half in 1:23:11, maintaining an average pace of 6 minutes 53 seconds per mile.
Running for a Cause
Ramsey participated to raise money for It's Never You, a charity founded by his friends Ceri and Frances Menai-Davis after the death of their six-year-old son Hugh from rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare cancer.
Speaking to BBC Sport before the race, Ramsey said: "Training's been difficult, when the rain's coming down and it's wet and windy, and it can be quite a lonely place sometimes. But actually, I've enjoyed it in a weird way, being in the trenches a little bit."
He added: "As a charity, it's really close to my heart. I know Ceri and Fran and their family. I knew Hugh very well. My eldest boy, Sonny, is a similar age and they used to play with each other. I can't imagine what they went through and what they are going through, but they've been an absolute inspiration."
Celebrity Competitors
Ramsey's time placed him ahead of several other celebrities, including actress Cynthia Erivo (3:21:40), former tennis player Laura Robson (3:28:16), and newsreader Sophie Raworth (3:36:35). He also edged out ex-Manchester United goalkeeper Lee Grant by just three seconds.
However, he was narrowly beaten by former Formula One driver Sebastian Vettel, who finished in 2:59:08.
Retirement from Football
The marathon achievement comes less than three weeks after Ramsey announced his retirement, ending a distinguished career. He had not played in over six months and had hoped to represent Wales at this summer's World Cup, but their defeat to Bosnia last month ended those hopes.
In his retirement statement, Ramsey said: "This has not been an easy decision to make. After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football. Firstly, I want to start with Wales. It has been my privilege to wear the Welsh shirt and experience so many incredible moments."
He thanked the fans, saying: "To the Red Wall. You have been there through thick and thin! ... I can't thank you enough. We've been through everything together and it's been an honour to represent you. Diolch."
