It’s crossing the finish line of a marathon that earns you the medal and the plaudits, but making it to race day well-prepared to go the distance is arguably a bigger achievement. 

The previous four chapters of 26.2 Miles: The Runners’ Story support this statement. After musicians Jordss and Novelist had to pull out for health reasons, just two runners – artist Corbin Shaw and activist writer Hélêne Selam Kleih – have made it to the London Marathon start line.

Both have been on a journey of self-discovery and affirmation. Now, as friends and family gather at the finish line, this is their chance to cash in the investment in time and toil, and celebrate the physical and mental strength developed along the way. But it will be anything but easy. No matter how prepared you are, the marathon always humbles. There will be tears, “excruciating pain,” and support from strangers. 

Will they make it? Hit play below to find out.