Paralympics 2012: marathon racing - in pictures

The undisputed wheelchair king of the track, David Weir, was aiming to make it four gold medals today when he took part in the men's T54 marathon. Having already won the 800m, 1500m and 5000m events, he was the hot favourtie to win the road race over 26 miles. GB's Weir (centre) found the going tough early on, but kept pace with the leaders including Marcel Hug of Switzerland (right)
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

In scorching temperatures, any period of shade was a welcome relief for the competitors
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

Having kept himself in contention, Weir broke away from his rivals on the home straight along the Mall and glided to victory
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

Weir said he had dreamed of winning gold in each of his races, but to actually fulfill his ambition was a miraculous achievement
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

Weir celebrated on the podium with his gold medal and with his one-year-old son Mason
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

It was Britain's 34th gold medal of the Games, ensuring them third place in the final medals table
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

In the women's T54 race, Shirley Riley of USA narrowly beat Shelly Woods of GB to the line, but Woods was delighted to claim silver
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

In the men's T12 race for visually impaired runners, the guides led the athletes past Buckingham Palace on their way to the finish line
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

It was a grueling challenge for the visually impaired athletes and their guides in temperatures reaching up to 27 degrees
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

Jorge Pina of Portugal was emotional and hugged his guide after they finish the race in seventh place
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian

Frederic van den Heede of Belgium celebrates was equally thrilled, despite finishing fourth in his category - an image of joy epitomizing the spirit of these Games
Photograph: Tom Jenkins for The Guardian