Michael Watson's marathon run

Following his fight with Chris Eubank at White Hart Lane, Watson undertook six brain operations; he was in and out of consciousness for four months afterwards; in a wheelchair for several years and a year before attempting the marathon Watson could barely walk without help. Peter Hamlyn, the neurosurgeon who saved Watson’s life, insists the boxer is a medical miracle.    

He walked two-and-a-half miles in the morning and two-and-a-half miles in the afternoon to complete the marathon in a commendable six days, two hours, 26 minutes and 18 seconds. He may have gone into a seventh day to complete the course, but it sent out waves of inspiration and set people talking.     

Watson believes the Flora London Marathon was a life-changing experience for him.  “In truth, I didn’t want the Flora London Marathon challenge to end. That’s how much I enjoyed it. There are so many memories that will stay in my mind, memories that will stay with me for a lifetime. Memories of people and of the power that human spirit possesses.” 

His marathon effort was to raise money for others, “I will raise a substantial amount of money. I have a lot to repay the Brain and Spine Foundation for, but I do love a great challenge.” He exceeded expectations but raising an outstanding some £250,000 for the Foundation, founded by Peter Hamlyn. The Foundation aims to maximise the quality of life for people with neurological disorders and to reduce neurological disability by providing a national focus for research, education and information.

Watson has received 12 national awards since his feat captured the hearts and minds of the British public. One of these was the Helen Rollason award, presented for outstanding courage and achievement in the face of adversity at the 2003 BBC Sports Personality of the Year. He was also honoured as a Member of the British Empire in the New Year’s Honours list in recognition of his heroic feat in completing the marathon last year.