OXFORD’S Mara Yamauchi declared herself pleased after running the Olympic qualifying time in the Yokohama Marathon, Japan.
The 38-year-old former Headington Roadrunner clocked 2hrs 27mins 24secs to finish third, putting her inside the A Standard of 2.31 for London.
With Paula Radcliffe (2.23.12) the only British athlete to have run faster over the 26.2-mile distance this year, Yamauchi could have her Olympic place confirmed when the first wave of marathon selections are announced on December 5.
Yamauchi, who had to battle strong winds and 25 degree heat, said: “Given the tough conditions, the injuries I’ve had and the length of time I had to prepare, I am very pleased with the time and result.
“I hoped to run a bit faster but times for all athletes were slow due to the conditions.”
The women’s marathon is one of Britain’s most competitive events for 2012 selection, with Jo Pavey, Claire Hallissey and Louise Damen also having run sub 2.31 this year.
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