Paula Radcliffe Looks To Redeem Herself In 2012

She hasn’t raced since November, 2009.

The world record holder in the women’s marathon, Paula Radcliffe, has one goal in her head these days: win the 2012 Olympic marathon in her home country.

When Radcliffe needs that extra bit of motivation to complete a grueling workout, she focuses on that goal. “If I am digging deep in sessions I will think about London,” she admits. Referring to lackluster performances in the past two Olympic marathons (DNF in 2004 and 23rd in 2008), Radcliffe says a London medal is even more important. “For that to be in your home country, and particularly with the two recent ones going wrong, it gives me that pig-headed perseverance that one day it will go right for me.”

Radcliffe hasn’t raced since 2009 when she placed fourth in the ING New York City Marathon. Since then, the 37-year-old British champion has given birth to her second son, Raphael.

Were she to make it to London, it will be Radcliffe’s fifth Olympics.

Radcliffe’s marathon world record, 2:15:25, is considered one of the highest-scoring running performances of all time.

For More: The Mirror