marathon

[kamala]

How many people that start a marathon actually finish? How long should an average amateur finish a 42 km(26m)? 42 km (26 mile race)? The pros ususally take about 2:26:00. I wanted to take part in the upcoming vancouver marathon in 2008 and was looking for some advice. I'm 18, 6'4" and skinny. I need to work on my stamina, what would be some good exercises for that? Any suggestions (also anything to do with amateurs in marathons) would be very helpful. Thank you.