Things just keep getting better.
Today I did an 11K run focussing on trying to get/keep my knees up.
Parkrun aside, I achieved my fastest overall pace so far this year.
I am very pleased with myself!
It will get easier. Right?
Friday, 15 May 2015
Saturday, 9 May 2015
It's All In The Numbers
1st January, Vicki and I put on our trainers and head out for our first run, the first in many months. It is hard and I have to slow and walk a couple of times.
12:27 min miles, the average pace on that first walk/jog.
35:16, the demoralising number of minutes it took Vicki and me to complete our first parkrun of the year.
27th January, the day I decided I need to shift some weight.
3.81 mile run with Donna confirms I need to do hill work as she shins up them like a mountain goat and I'm left walking and struggling for breath.
3 cm lost from my waistline.
1st April, panic sets in that I'm not going to get enough long runs under my belt in time to be prepared for Taunton Half Marathon. Every time I add a mile I think I'm going to die of exhaustion.
2 hours and 30 minutes, my desired finishing time for the 32nd Taunton Half Marathon on Sunday 12th April.
10.30 a.m. start time.
2:28:15, my actual finishing chip time.
9 minutes faster than last year. I am delighted.
£20.00 the cost of my celebratory quarter pound cheeseburger and large fries and the rest of the feast shared with Vicki and Rob and Sophia, what a way to recover!
19.04.15, rest over, back out on the lanes.
4 miles, all I can manage!
20th park run and Donna and I lament the failure of yet another failed sub 30 run. It's just not possible we conclude.
£30 very well spent on a new over the shoulder boulder holder as a result of a conversation on social media. That'll do the trick for sure!
38,000 people take part in the 2015 London Marathon, I follow at least 10 RFRC and other acquaintances wind their way around the course. They all complete the course and I am staggered at just how well they all do. And, just a little envious.
5K Club time trial at the end of April and I complete the distance 10 seconds quicker than last year, finishing in 30:10, thanks to Katie Elliot who kept me going. I failed yet again to catch Gill Taunton though!
4th May, I enter a ballot for the greatest run on earth, along with many thousand others.
11 pounds, so far lost in weight.
84, Longrun Meadow park run event number for today the 9th May.
21, my twenty first Longrun Meadow park run. My head is in the right place, I am going to do this. I am wearing my This Girl Can T shirt and the recently purchased superb underwear. I am going to nail this. All traffic lights are green on my way into town. see, everything is pointing towards a successful run. I do a short lap warm up enabling me to leave my security blanket jacket in the car. I will do this. Nadine, my friend and unofficial coach offers to run with me. It's now or never, I CAN do this, my T shirt says so.
181, my finishing place out of a field of 277 runners.
56.30% my age graded score for today's effort. I've tried many times to understand this, but I still don't. It's a higher number than usual so I think it means I ran better than I ever have run before? It feels like it.
44 points earned for the Longrun Meadow parkrun points competition.
29:47 I've only gone and done it!
948 calories consumed in my celebratory quarter pounder cheese burger and large fries.
Running Forever Running Club, OK not a number but a very significant part of my running successes this year. You could not wish to meet a friendlier, more supportive bunch of runners. From newbies to elite, we have them all. Ask a question and many answers will be forthcoming. Wether leading a training group, offering advice on techniques, supporting alongside or yelling on the sidelines RFRC are always right by my side. Thank you.
Longrun Meadow parkrun, still not a number but also a fortnightly happening in my life. I am convinced this 5k run, which I nearly always run as fast as I can, is a significant reason for my improvement in running times. I'm not too confident at going to track to do speed work sessions so alongside some fartlek sessions done all alone out in the lanes this counts as my improving speed runs. If you've not had chance to take part yet then why not give it a go, there's bound to be one near to you, just google parkrun and see what comes up. If you are a regular parkrunner then don't forget to add your name to the volunteer list too, that's my next task as my thank you to all the organisers and volunteers from today, without you I would not have had the chance, at last, to get my sub 30. Thank you.
Nadine, thank you x
29:47 Oh, I may have already mentioned that!
12:27 min miles, the average pace on that first walk/jog.
35:16, the demoralising number of minutes it took Vicki and me to complete our first parkrun of the year.
27th January, the day I decided I need to shift some weight.
3.81 mile run with Donna confirms I need to do hill work as she shins up them like a mountain goat and I'm left walking and struggling for breath.
3 cm lost from my waistline.
1st April, panic sets in that I'm not going to get enough long runs under my belt in time to be prepared for Taunton Half Marathon. Every time I add a mile I think I'm going to die of exhaustion.
2 hours and 30 minutes, my desired finishing time for the 32nd Taunton Half Marathon on Sunday 12th April.
10.30 a.m. start time.
2:28:15, my actual finishing chip time.
9 minutes faster than last year. I am delighted.
£20.00 the cost of my celebratory quarter pound cheeseburger and large fries and the rest of the feast shared with Vicki and Rob and Sophia, what a way to recover!
19.04.15, rest over, back out on the lanes.
4 miles, all I can manage!
20th park run and Donna and I lament the failure of yet another failed sub 30 run. It's just not possible we conclude.
£30 very well spent on a new over the shoulder boulder holder as a result of a conversation on social media. That'll do the trick for sure!
38,000 people take part in the 2015 London Marathon, I follow at least 10 RFRC and other acquaintances wind their way around the course. They all complete the course and I am staggered at just how well they all do. And, just a little envious.
5K Club time trial at the end of April and I complete the distance 10 seconds quicker than last year, finishing in 30:10, thanks to Katie Elliot who kept me going. I failed yet again to catch Gill Taunton though!
4th May, I enter a ballot for the greatest run on earth, along with many thousand others.
11 pounds, so far lost in weight.
84, Longrun Meadow park run event number for today the 9th May.
21, my twenty first Longrun Meadow park run. My head is in the right place, I am going to do this. I am wearing my This Girl Can T shirt and the recently purchased superb underwear. I am going to nail this. All traffic lights are green on my way into town. see, everything is pointing towards a successful run. I do a short lap warm up enabling me to leave my security blanket jacket in the car. I will do this. Nadine, my friend and unofficial coach offers to run with me. It's now or never, I CAN do this, my T shirt says so.
181, my finishing place out of a field of 277 runners.
56.30% my age graded score for today's effort. I've tried many times to understand this, but I still don't. It's a higher number than usual so I think it means I ran better than I ever have run before? It feels like it.
44 points earned for the Longrun Meadow parkrun points competition.
29:47 I've only gone and done it!
948 calories consumed in my celebratory quarter pounder cheese burger and large fries.
Running Forever Running Club, OK not a number but a very significant part of my running successes this year. You could not wish to meet a friendlier, more supportive bunch of runners. From newbies to elite, we have them all. Ask a question and many answers will be forthcoming. Wether leading a training group, offering advice on techniques, supporting alongside or yelling on the sidelines RFRC are always right by my side. Thank you.
Longrun Meadow parkrun, still not a number but also a fortnightly happening in my life. I am convinced this 5k run, which I nearly always run as fast as I can, is a significant reason for my improvement in running times. I'm not too confident at going to track to do speed work sessions so alongside some fartlek sessions done all alone out in the lanes this counts as my improving speed runs. If you've not had chance to take part yet then why not give it a go, there's bound to be one near to you, just google parkrun and see what comes up. If you are a regular parkrunner then don't forget to add your name to the volunteer list too, that's my next task as my thank you to all the organisers and volunteers from today, without you I would not have had the chance, at last, to get my sub 30. Thank you.
Nadine, thank you x
29:47 Oh, I may have already mentioned that!
Tuesday, 31 March 2015
Tapering
Tapering, sounds like I know what I'm talking about doesn't it?
I think it actually gives me a legitimate cause to reduce my mileage. I completed 12 miles yesterday, it was hard. It was hard on the outbound leg of the lovely level canal tow path I ambled along. I couldn't get speed up so pleased myself by just trundling along convincing myself that miles under the belt was all that mattered. The return was even harder as I was hampered by a forceful headwind. I really don't think it was there as a helping hand on my first half, if it was then that had been even harder than it should have been.
In need of fresh pastures to keep the running going I've been parking a little further along the canal each run for the past week. My first run started at Firepool Lock in town right at the very beginning of the Taunton to Bridgwater Canal and yesterday I parked at Swingbridge, tomorrow It will be Creech. This psychological game I play with myself helps to relieve the boredom of going over the same ground repeatedly.
The many bridges along this route also helps me to have specific goals for each area of my running style I aim to improve too. I have a tendency towards OCD behaviour in most areas of my life and my running routine follows thus: keep head up looking at the horizon or at least where I'm going, keep hips forward, shoulders down, knees up, arms pumping - not across the body, flick the dirt of my trainers and then put the whole lot together and then rest, still running but not actively trying to do all of the above. I'm always relieved when a long section involves focussing on an upper body action and groan loudly when my legs have to up the effort!
Yesterday I was tired. I had postponed the twelve miler from a very wet and windy Sunday through which I was not recovering quickly from a hangover. I was looking forward to the challenge but it became apparent immediately that it wasn't going to be a run of concentration. I'm quite pleased with how my half marathon training has been going, I've managed to concentrate on the entirety of all my runs in recent weeks but this one just had to unfold at its own mind wandering and gentle pace. Even at mile three I was desperate for the little voice in my ear to tell me of my achievement. In my haste to hear I pushed my iPod button for too long and switched the damn thing off resulting in having to start all over again.
Apparently it is not necessary to complete the full 13.1 miles before a half, atmosphere and support on the day should carry you through. Last year I managed to fit in a thirteen mile run before the race but this year I'm listening to the advice and I've saved a whole mile for the day. Trouble is I'm so far back the pack by the time I get to the last few miles, when the going gets really tough, many supporters have gone home and runners are few and far between. I remember the last stretch being a desolate wasteland last year, I was exhausted and very lonely. I was delighted to see and hear fellow club runners greeting and cheering me before the final bend and then a small crowd at the finish, but that final stretch, hard, very hard.
To taper I should only do 60% of my longest run and maybe a 6 - 10 miles on the Sunday before. I have to be up early tomorrow and plan to do 7 miles. Parkrun is a speedy (if only) 5k for Saturday then perhaps I'll do that 10 and a club run. Finally a few days of carb loading should have me ready. As long as on the day I can eat a decent breakfast and these blustery winds have blown away I shall keep my fingers crossed for a good result. I have a dream time, it could happen, I will need to push real hard. All I know is I will do my very best and that there will be tears, I hope that they will be tears of joy.
I think it actually gives me a legitimate cause to reduce my mileage. I completed 12 miles yesterday, it was hard. It was hard on the outbound leg of the lovely level canal tow path I ambled along. I couldn't get speed up so pleased myself by just trundling along convincing myself that miles under the belt was all that mattered. The return was even harder as I was hampered by a forceful headwind. I really don't think it was there as a helping hand on my first half, if it was then that had been even harder than it should have been.
In need of fresh pastures to keep the running going I've been parking a little further along the canal each run for the past week. My first run started at Firepool Lock in town right at the very beginning of the Taunton to Bridgwater Canal and yesterday I parked at Swingbridge, tomorrow It will be Creech. This psychological game I play with myself helps to relieve the boredom of going over the same ground repeatedly.
The many bridges along this route also helps me to have specific goals for each area of my running style I aim to improve too. I have a tendency towards OCD behaviour in most areas of my life and my running routine follows thus: keep head up looking at the horizon or at least where I'm going, keep hips forward, shoulders down, knees up, arms pumping - not across the body, flick the dirt of my trainers and then put the whole lot together and then rest, still running but not actively trying to do all of the above. I'm always relieved when a long section involves focussing on an upper body action and groan loudly when my legs have to up the effort!
Yesterday I was tired. I had postponed the twelve miler from a very wet and windy Sunday through which I was not recovering quickly from a hangover. I was looking forward to the challenge but it became apparent immediately that it wasn't going to be a run of concentration. I'm quite pleased with how my half marathon training has been going, I've managed to concentrate on the entirety of all my runs in recent weeks but this one just had to unfold at its own mind wandering and gentle pace. Even at mile three I was desperate for the little voice in my ear to tell me of my achievement. In my haste to hear I pushed my iPod button for too long and switched the damn thing off resulting in having to start all over again.
Apparently it is not necessary to complete the full 13.1 miles before a half, atmosphere and support on the day should carry you through. Last year I managed to fit in a thirteen mile run before the race but this year I'm listening to the advice and I've saved a whole mile for the day. Trouble is I'm so far back the pack by the time I get to the last few miles, when the going gets really tough, many supporters have gone home and runners are few and far between. I remember the last stretch being a desolate wasteland last year, I was exhausted and very lonely. I was delighted to see and hear fellow club runners greeting and cheering me before the final bend and then a small crowd at the finish, but that final stretch, hard, very hard.
To taper I should only do 60% of my longest run and maybe a 6 - 10 miles on the Sunday before. I have to be up early tomorrow and plan to do 7 miles. Parkrun is a speedy (if only) 5k for Saturday then perhaps I'll do that 10 and a club run. Finally a few days of carb loading should have me ready. As long as on the day I can eat a decent breakfast and these blustery winds have blown away I shall keep my fingers crossed for a good result. I have a dream time, it could happen, I will need to push real hard. All I know is I will do my very best and that there will be tears, I hope that they will be tears of joy.
Wednesday, 11 March 2015
All By Myself
The vast majority of my runs are done alone. I have no problem with this, I use the time to think things through and empty my mind, listen to music and talking books and compose blogs, although, not this one as I haven't run yet today, I'm saving that for a club run tonight. I haven't run with the club for ages and I am somewhat apprehensive about it.
My first run of the year was done with my daughter in law. New year's day dawned and we were determined to get back into running having both signed up for the Taunton Half in April. Now, her legs are considerably longer than mine and she is a good deal younger too but at least we were on a fairly level playing field in terms of fitness and she didn't seem to mind too much when I had to walk here and there. Into our third month of training and we're pretty much level pegging in terms of miles run but she is way faster than me and on the day she'll probably have time to go home, shower, change and get back to the finish before I stagger over the line!
I aim to park run fortnightly and I can have as many as 300 fellow runners as companions, lots of friendly faces, some friends and even good friends but once the air horn signals the start, you're on your own. I know I'll never be alongside the super speedies or even the speedies and hopefully I'll continue to manage to avoid the very back, unless tail running, but I know my place and I'm quite happy there. Head down and focussing on the job in hand.
Recently I've been stepping up my distances in preparation for the half, and time out on my feet has been steadily increasing and to be honest after about an hour and half I'm getting bored. My feet and legs are just about managing to keep going but my head has had enough. So I was delighted when my friend Donna suggested a run together - not a long one, she quickly added! And her lovely daughter did make me laugh as she had questioned her Mum's ability to keep up with me! No worries there, at all, my legs were full of lead as I had not been well (excuses, excuses) and I had missed my last scheduled outing. We set off into the lanes and up the first hill. Well Donna was like the proverbial mountain goat whereas I took my time and walked a substantial amount of the inclines. We were blessed with a glorious sunny day and our hurtle down through the woods to home felt so good.
Tonight, I shall be running with my club. I haven't run with them since last September. I shall run with the group I should be in and desperately hope I shall be able to keep up. No one gets left behind is the club motto and if the pack starts spreading out too far the front runners loop back and scoop up everyone. I need to do this. Running with the group will probably make me run faster. It means an opportunity to run in places that are fresh and with people to chat with, if I'm not gasping for breath.
I like running alone. I like running with others. I like running.
My first run of the year was done with my daughter in law. New year's day dawned and we were determined to get back into running having both signed up for the Taunton Half in April. Now, her legs are considerably longer than mine and she is a good deal younger too but at least we were on a fairly level playing field in terms of fitness and she didn't seem to mind too much when I had to walk here and there. Into our third month of training and we're pretty much level pegging in terms of miles run but she is way faster than me and on the day she'll probably have time to go home, shower, change and get back to the finish before I stagger over the line!
I aim to park run fortnightly and I can have as many as 300 fellow runners as companions, lots of friendly faces, some friends and even good friends but once the air horn signals the start, you're on your own. I know I'll never be alongside the super speedies or even the speedies and hopefully I'll continue to manage to avoid the very back, unless tail running, but I know my place and I'm quite happy there. Head down and focussing on the job in hand.
Recently I've been stepping up my distances in preparation for the half, and time out on my feet has been steadily increasing and to be honest after about an hour and half I'm getting bored. My feet and legs are just about managing to keep going but my head has had enough. So I was delighted when my friend Donna suggested a run together - not a long one, she quickly added! And her lovely daughter did make me laugh as she had questioned her Mum's ability to keep up with me! No worries there, at all, my legs were full of lead as I had not been well (excuses, excuses) and I had missed my last scheduled outing. We set off into the lanes and up the first hill. Well Donna was like the proverbial mountain goat whereas I took my time and walked a substantial amount of the inclines. We were blessed with a glorious sunny day and our hurtle down through the woods to home felt so good.
Tonight, I shall be running with my club. I haven't run with them since last September. I shall run with the group I should be in and desperately hope I shall be able to keep up. No one gets left behind is the club motto and if the pack starts spreading out too far the front runners loop back and scoop up everyone. I need to do this. Running with the group will probably make me run faster. It means an opportunity to run in places that are fresh and with people to chat with, if I'm not gasping for breath.
I like running alone. I like running with others. I like running.
Friday, 27 February 2015
Sharing the Statistics
My last run of February 2015 covered 12.7 km (7.9 miles.)
This year my average pace has steadily been increasing, today it was 6.57 minutes per km (11.11 minutes per mile.)
My park run average pace is faster and currently sits at 10.34 minutes per mile.
I was on my feet for almost an hour and a half today, the longest time so far this year. And, I did not walk, at all, not even on the hills.
This month I have run 105.4 km (65.49 miles) which means had I been able to do this all in one go I would have got to Plymouth!
Most importantly, today I burned 811 calories.
I encountered 2 rude horse riders and several ignorant drivers today. (I might not be quick but overall I was quicker than the horses, the riders just couldn't bear to accept that. I have read and understand the highway code, drivers should read it too.)
This year my average pace has steadily been increasing, today it was 6.57 minutes per km (11.11 minutes per mile.)
My park run average pace is faster and currently sits at 10.34 minutes per mile.
I was on my feet for almost an hour and a half today, the longest time so far this year. And, I did not walk, at all, not even on the hills.
This month I have run 105.4 km (65.49 miles) which means had I been able to do this all in one go I would have got to Plymouth!
Most importantly, today I burned 811 calories.
I encountered 2 rude horse riders and several ignorant drivers today. (I might not be quick but overall I was quicker than the horses, the riders just couldn't bear to accept that. I have read and understand the highway code, drivers should read it too.)
Tuesday, 17 February 2015
Really Really Good
I had a panic. The Taunton half marathon is not that far away and I have been struggling to get some distance under my belt. I counted the weeks and realised that as long as I increased my runs by a mile each week I would still reach the required distance by April.
I have this past week been doing two circuits of a close to home run. The route includes a sharp hill, not overly long but a long way up none the less. So far this year I have not managed to run all the way to the top, every meeting has resulted in my gasping for breath on the final third, giving up and giving in to walking the last lump.
Today I decided to attack the route in a different way. To start I jogged to the first junction, a very gentle incline all the way and then turned around and ran back home. I usually push as hard as I can on this home stretch and it felt so good to do it on fresh legs.
A quick turn and back to the junction and further on, this time to the next bend in the lane and just where the hill begins to really climb. Another about turn and back to the junction. Forward once more to make the climb to the midway plateau, not too fast, head down, small steps and then turn, oh how good my legs felt all the way back down.
I climbed again, just as before, my legs were burning this time but up onto the level and a brief respite before tackling the steep section. I was determined to get to the drain cover at the top without walking and I did, although, technically I'm not sure it could be called running! Oh the relief of the downward stretch, and then I had to do it again. Much harder this time but once more I was at the top.
No time to stop, a right turn and still climbing I headed to the woods. Now I was into the loop with a lovely gentle decline for at least a third of the section. Horses ahead, I slowed and called hello and passed carefully whilst chatting to the riders, one a celebrity no less! I warned I would be back round shortly but I didn't see them again, they were too quick for me!
It was during the second loop that I suddenly realised that I had stopped thinking about my legs, my breathing was steady and not laboured. I was thoroughly enjoying myself in the glorious sunshine and really felt that I could have gone even further. This was the first time this year that I hadn't been quietly moaning to myself that this running lark wasn't getting any easier.
I flew down over the conquered hill and tried really hard to keep up my pace all the way home. With not much fuel in the tank I even picked up my toes for a bit of a sprint finish.
You know when a run is REALLY REALLY good? Well that.
I have this past week been doing two circuits of a close to home run. The route includes a sharp hill, not overly long but a long way up none the less. So far this year I have not managed to run all the way to the top, every meeting has resulted in my gasping for breath on the final third, giving up and giving in to walking the last lump.
Today I decided to attack the route in a different way. To start I jogged to the first junction, a very gentle incline all the way and then turned around and ran back home. I usually push as hard as I can on this home stretch and it felt so good to do it on fresh legs.
A quick turn and back to the junction and further on, this time to the next bend in the lane and just where the hill begins to really climb. Another about turn and back to the junction. Forward once more to make the climb to the midway plateau, not too fast, head down, small steps and then turn, oh how good my legs felt all the way back down.
I climbed again, just as before, my legs were burning this time but up onto the level and a brief respite before tackling the steep section. I was determined to get to the drain cover at the top without walking and I did, although, technically I'm not sure it could be called running! Oh the relief of the downward stretch, and then I had to do it again. Much harder this time but once more I was at the top.
No time to stop, a right turn and still climbing I headed to the woods. Now I was into the loop with a lovely gentle decline for at least a third of the section. Horses ahead, I slowed and called hello and passed carefully whilst chatting to the riders, one a celebrity no less! I warned I would be back round shortly but I didn't see them again, they were too quick for me!
It was during the second loop that I suddenly realised that I had stopped thinking about my legs, my breathing was steady and not laboured. I was thoroughly enjoying myself in the glorious sunshine and really felt that I could have gone even further. This was the first time this year that I hadn't been quietly moaning to myself that this running lark wasn't getting any easier.
I flew down over the conquered hill and tried really hard to keep up my pace all the way home. With not much fuel in the tank I even picked up my toes for a bit of a sprint finish.
You know when a run is REALLY REALLY good? Well that.
Saturday, 7 February 2015
Full of Beans
The Power of Exercise
Friday 6.30 p.m. - I retire to bed. I am exhausted after a full week of babysitting, shopping, cooking, running and socialising. I cannot do another thing. My body refuses to move and my head needs to sleep.
Friday 10.00 p.m. - Lights out, although I have not watched a whole program all evening. Nor have I played my word game or checked social media. All evening I have been dozing. Except for a quick dash downstairs for a piece of toast and a cup of tea.
Saturday 8.00 a.m. - I wake late. I'm dizzy. My head is fuzzy. It looks cold outside. I could skip park run, Vicki has gone on a long run so nobody will know if I don't go. Don't think I can go. I feel terrible. If I don't go Vicki will shoot ahead of me on our Nike Leader Table. I stumble out of bed and dress in the appropriate cold weather running kit. Actually it was the first kit that came to hand and my bottoms don't meet my ankles, brrrr. I grab gloves, hat and a few gulps of water. No breakfast, no second cuppa. This might not be good but I'm going to give it a go.
Saturday 9.00 a.m. I'm lined up alongside all the others. I'm waiting in the correct place, the finish after 30 minutes place. I wonder if I will ever move in front of that sign. It's bitter cold, my bare legs are fine but I'm now wishing I was wearing the gloves instead of leaving them in the car. I'm joined by the lovely Jan and Lolly, a quick hello to Kath and at last the hooter sounds and off we go. The usual leg aches begin and I hope that it will soon pass and that I move into the actually this feels OK phase. Loose lace, almost every run, I must tie doubles, I must tie doubles. Jan and Lolly creep ahead and I spend the next 1/4 of the run trying hard to catch them, every person they pass I manage to also. I'm nearly there but once onto the second lap I just can't and they steadily pull away from me. Today I have my ear phones with me and I decide to listen in and hope that it will help me relax. It does. The second lap is always hard but I plough on, determined to not walk, I don't. A small burst towards the end, I will not be overtaken on the line and I manage to pass three more runners. And breathe. And, I manage to remember to turn my iPod off, this usually happens several minutes after stopping, so today my time might be somewhat nearer the official time. I am delighted to see I might be as much as three minutes quicker than a fortnight ago, which was my first park run for months.
Saturday 10.10 a.m. - I do usually shower and change before having breakfast after running but today my bread is toasting on the Aga and the beans are in the microwave before I've even taken my trainers off or plugged my Nike chip into the computer. I am starving and my first mug of tea doesn't touch the sides. On checking my stats I am so happy to see I've recorded my fastest pace since my new year day run and it's an OK one. I'm getting back, slowly, slowly but surely.
Saturday 1.30 - I am feeling great, my fuggy head and aching body has gone. I feel bright eyed and I am literally full of beans. The chores are done, I've spent some time taking photographs and caught up with emails. I've loads to do this afternoon and I'm also wondering if running every day is a sensible option, I can't wait to get my trainers on again. The power of exercise never ceases to amaze me.
Friday 6.30 p.m. - I retire to bed. I am exhausted after a full week of babysitting, shopping, cooking, running and socialising. I cannot do another thing. My body refuses to move and my head needs to sleep.
Friday 10.00 p.m. - Lights out, although I have not watched a whole program all evening. Nor have I played my word game or checked social media. All evening I have been dozing. Except for a quick dash downstairs for a piece of toast and a cup of tea.
Saturday 8.00 a.m. - I wake late. I'm dizzy. My head is fuzzy. It looks cold outside. I could skip park run, Vicki has gone on a long run so nobody will know if I don't go. Don't think I can go. I feel terrible. If I don't go Vicki will shoot ahead of me on our Nike Leader Table. I stumble out of bed and dress in the appropriate cold weather running kit. Actually it was the first kit that came to hand and my bottoms don't meet my ankles, brrrr. I grab gloves, hat and a few gulps of water. No breakfast, no second cuppa. This might not be good but I'm going to give it a go.
Saturday 9.00 a.m. I'm lined up alongside all the others. I'm waiting in the correct place, the finish after 30 minutes place. I wonder if I will ever move in front of that sign. It's bitter cold, my bare legs are fine but I'm now wishing I was wearing the gloves instead of leaving them in the car. I'm joined by the lovely Jan and Lolly, a quick hello to Kath and at last the hooter sounds and off we go. The usual leg aches begin and I hope that it will soon pass and that I move into the actually this feels OK phase. Loose lace, almost every run, I must tie doubles, I must tie doubles. Jan and Lolly creep ahead and I spend the next 1/4 of the run trying hard to catch them, every person they pass I manage to also. I'm nearly there but once onto the second lap I just can't and they steadily pull away from me. Today I have my ear phones with me and I decide to listen in and hope that it will help me relax. It does. The second lap is always hard but I plough on, determined to not walk, I don't. A small burst towards the end, I will not be overtaken on the line and I manage to pass three more runners. And breathe. And, I manage to remember to turn my iPod off, this usually happens several minutes after stopping, so today my time might be somewhat nearer the official time. I am delighted to see I might be as much as three minutes quicker than a fortnight ago, which was my first park run for months.
Saturday 10.10 a.m. - I do usually shower and change before having breakfast after running but today my bread is toasting on the Aga and the beans are in the microwave before I've even taken my trainers off or plugged my Nike chip into the computer. I am starving and my first mug of tea doesn't touch the sides. On checking my stats I am so happy to see I've recorded my fastest pace since my new year day run and it's an OK one. I'm getting back, slowly, slowly but surely.
Saturday 1.30 - I am feeling great, my fuggy head and aching body has gone. I feel bright eyed and I am literally full of beans. The chores are done, I've spent some time taking photographs and caught up with emails. I've loads to do this afternoon and I'm also wondering if running every day is a sensible option, I can't wait to get my trainers on again. The power of exercise never ceases to amaze me.
Sunday, 4 January 2015
Who Am I?
Who Am I?
I am a daughter. I am a niece. I am a sister. I am a friend. I am a wife. I am a daughter in law. I am a sister in law. I am a mother. I am an aunt. I am a mother in law. I am a nanna.
But, who am I?
I am a runner. I am a photographer. I am a blogger. I am a crocheter.
But, who am I?
I was a waitress. I was a shop assistant. I was a hairdresser. I was an in store demonstrator. I was a PTA secretary. I was a school governor. I was a higher level teaching assistant.
But, I am lost.
I am fortunate. I am grateful. I am looking forward.
But, I am still lost.
I am a daughter. I am a niece. I am a sister. I am a friend. I am a wife. I am a daughter in law. I am a sister in law. I am a mother. I am an aunt. I am a mother in law. I am a nanna.
But, who am I?
I am a runner. I am a photographer. I am a blogger. I am a crocheter.
But, who am I?
I was a waitress. I was a shop assistant. I was a hairdresser. I was an in store demonstrator. I was a PTA secretary. I was a school governor. I was a higher level teaching assistant.
But, I am lost.
I am fortunate. I am grateful. I am looking forward.
But, I am still lost.
Monday, 27 October 2014
Watching From The Sidelines
Once again I am watching and not taking part.
I've been out of sorts.
Funerals, life changing decisions and problems with my ears have caused me to stop exercising and it's all taken its toll on my poor body.
However, yesterday I watched the Herepath Half. A local race organised by my running club. I was able to walk to the start and finish of this event and did so with my camera.
I have done various parts of this race by myself but never all joined up. I'm not really a trail runner either but the final part of the course is a particularly favourite homeward bound stretch for me and I am contemplating attempting it next year. I will have to do it myself first to be sure I can do it in a sensible time, couldn't bare the thought of making all those lovely volunteers and marshals wait for me!
I positioned myself on the first bend and snapped away at all the proper runners racing past and immediately decided I couldn't do it, I just can't set off at that pace. A field of about 125 runners headed off towards the steady climb to eventually reach the top of Neroche Forest before enjoying the steady decline all the way back to the start. And therein lies another problem, all that up. Love the down, but not the up.
A quick trek back home and I uploaded the pictures and managed a small pile of ironing before returning to see the first runners home. Just over an hour and half after setting off these true athletes were crossing the finishing line. I had decided that I would position myself a short distance from the finish at a very unkind final hurdle for the runners. A stream which at this time of year has to be crossed either through the large bowl in the middle, through the deep squelchy mud to one side or by the little known stepping stone to the other side. Being a kind local I did point out the stepping stone to those hesitant about getting in the water and who can blame them, see I hate mud and water and wet feet. I may have mentioned that once or twice before!
Once the first three gents and ladies were through I headed up the track under the trees to capture fellow Running Forever runners on their final decent. I stood and watched in awe as one by one they came past, most with a smile or a comment, some in pain but still determined to finish and all covered in mud. I stood and chatted with one of the marshals that had completed the course that morning before the race. That's dedication I say.
Anyway, I came away with a renewed vigour. I will get running again. As soon as my perforated ear drum has repaired itself I will be back out there. Back at the beginning maybe but back out on the roads. Maybe I will venture off road and maybe I will dip my toe in the mud. I'm wondering if it's possible to run in wellies...
First lady home Jo Carrit, who expertly managed to not get her feet wet! Well done Jo, great to see you winning.
I've been out of sorts.
Funerals, life changing decisions and problems with my ears have caused me to stop exercising and it's all taken its toll on my poor body.
However, yesterday I watched the Herepath Half. A local race organised by my running club. I was able to walk to the start and finish of this event and did so with my camera.
I have done various parts of this race by myself but never all joined up. I'm not really a trail runner either but the final part of the course is a particularly favourite homeward bound stretch for me and I am contemplating attempting it next year. I will have to do it myself first to be sure I can do it in a sensible time, couldn't bare the thought of making all those lovely volunteers and marshals wait for me!
I positioned myself on the first bend and snapped away at all the proper runners racing past and immediately decided I couldn't do it, I just can't set off at that pace. A field of about 125 runners headed off towards the steady climb to eventually reach the top of Neroche Forest before enjoying the steady decline all the way back to the start. And therein lies another problem, all that up. Love the down, but not the up.
A quick trek back home and I uploaded the pictures and managed a small pile of ironing before returning to see the first runners home. Just over an hour and half after setting off these true athletes were crossing the finishing line. I had decided that I would position myself a short distance from the finish at a very unkind final hurdle for the runners. A stream which at this time of year has to be crossed either through the large bowl in the middle, through the deep squelchy mud to one side or by the little known stepping stone to the other side. Being a kind local I did point out the stepping stone to those hesitant about getting in the water and who can blame them, see I hate mud and water and wet feet. I may have mentioned that once or twice before!
Once the first three gents and ladies were through I headed up the track under the trees to capture fellow Running Forever runners on their final decent. I stood and watched in awe as one by one they came past, most with a smile or a comment, some in pain but still determined to finish and all covered in mud. I stood and chatted with one of the marshals that had completed the course that morning before the race. That's dedication I say.
Anyway, I came away with a renewed vigour. I will get running again. As soon as my perforated ear drum has repaired itself I will be back out there. Back at the beginning maybe but back out on the roads. Maybe I will venture off road and maybe I will dip my toe in the mud. I'm wondering if it's possible to run in wellies...
First lady home Jo Carrit, who expertly managed to not get her feet wet! Well done Jo, great to see you winning.
Monday, 13 October 2014
In Memory of Doris
Doris may have worked
for you, cared for you, been your family or your friend, whoever she was to
you, you will know that all she ever wanted to do was help.
When our youngest son was not much more than a toddler I asked her if she could look after him for me the following afternoon, as usual she said yes. He was delivered and I went to work. Later that day Steve collected him and brought him home.
We asked him if he had
had a nice afternoon, oh yes, he said. What had he been doing
with Grandma we asked? We went to a big hall. I had cake. I made the sad old ladies
laugh, he replied. This had us somewhat
puzzled and Steve rang his Mum to find out where they had been.
I was quite cross,
actually I was very cross, to discover Doris had taken him to a funeral tea because
she had already agreed to help and she thought it would be OK to take Lewis
along. I was cross because I didn’t think it at all appropriate to take a three
year old to a complete strangers funeral tea. But I was also cross
because she hadn’t said no. No she couldn’t help me as she had already made
plans. No it would make her afternoon tricky. She just couldn’t say no. She
always wanted to help everybody.
I didn’t understand
then that Lewis was perfectly all right at the tea and he had actually helped lift
the mood of the ‘sad old ladies.’ But I understand now and Doris’s great
granddaughter will be with us later to help brighten the ‘sad old ladies’ and
‘sad old men’ and the rest of us!
Because of the
dementia, Doris didn’t quite grasp who Sophia is, but she adored her and was
always delighted to see her and always wanted to hold her.
Having spent her whole
life caring for others the time came for Doris to be cared for. We did our
best, we muddled along. We didn’t know the rules. It was hard and it hurt like
mad. We questioned every action, every thought.
Thank you Lavender
Court, especially in recent weeks, you pulled out all the stops, your care of
Doris was second to none. I am
thankful I was able to help Doris, to repay just some of her kindness. We would
dance around her room to Daniel O’Donnel and my last happy memory of her was
dancing with her at Rob and Vicki’s wedding, we whirled around and around the
dance floor, she had a beaming smile on her face the whole time.
Whether Doris worked for you, cared for you, was your family or your friend; you will know that all she ever wanted to do was help.
Saturday, 30 August 2014
Disappointed of Taunton
I tried everything.
In my head, I would do it, positive, mental attitude in place.
Chicken stir fry with loads of vegetables, bean sprouts and noodles my meal the evening before and a drop of wine to relax me and make me sleep.
I got up early to give my body plenty of time to wake up and to eat half a banana.
Favourite trainers, best kit.
I arrived early to do a good warm up lap. Nice and gentle, all joints moving well.
Stretching gently, kept moving, positive mind.
Moved nearer to the front of the starting huddle.
It felt like a quicker first lap, managed to stay with Andrea. We kept Gill in our sight.
Breathing under control.
Felt good.
Felt quick.
Sprint finished.
Missed it by 12 seconds.
A whole twelve seconds.
Gutted.
In my head, I would do it, positive, mental attitude in place.
Chicken stir fry with loads of vegetables, bean sprouts and noodles my meal the evening before and a drop of wine to relax me and make me sleep.
I got up early to give my body plenty of time to wake up and to eat half a banana.
Favourite trainers, best kit.
I arrived early to do a good warm up lap. Nice and gentle, all joints moving well.
Stretching gently, kept moving, positive mind.
Moved nearer to the front of the starting huddle.
It felt like a quicker first lap, managed to stay with Andrea. We kept Gill in our sight.
Breathing under control.
Felt good.
Felt quick.
Sprint finished.
Missed it by 12 seconds.
A whole twelve seconds.
Gutted.
Tuesday, 19 August 2014
Silver Threads
There is a silver thread from the top of my head pulling upwards. It keeps my eyes on the horizon or looking at the birds in the tree tops or counting the chimney pots atop the roof tops. Look ahead, keep your eyes on where you're going. Pick the points of where your feet will soon be treading. Farm steads, lone trees, bends in the road. Keep the silver thread taught, don't let those eyes drop to the floor I don't want to fall anymore. Enjoy the view, make it to the top of the hill and survey the scenery laid out below, the patchwork of the countryside. Follow the lane down alongside the lush golden fields, soon they will be scalped and ploughed and the colours will change as the season moves on.
There are silver threads in my hair. No longer can I pull them out one by one. Accept them. Love them. There are lines around my eyes and I push them back and wish. Power surges and hormonal dips play havoc. Time is moving on, praying I'm only half way, so much to do, so many dreams to chase so much to see and do.
There are silver threads to be worn. I shall wear silver shoes too. I shall celebrate in style with my nearest and dearest, my wonderful family. We shall wine and dine on the finest. We shall laugh and reminisce and look forward. Cryptic messages in my diary soon to be told. Its only a number and not really that old.
Medals have been won and challenges achieved. The next season begins with goals anew. The next decade of dreams waiting to unfurl, races to be done and most precious of all, time to be spent with my most special girl.
There are silver threads in my hair. No longer can I pull them out one by one. Accept them. Love them. There are lines around my eyes and I push them back and wish. Power surges and hormonal dips play havoc. Time is moving on, praying I'm only half way, so much to do, so many dreams to chase so much to see and do.
There are silver threads to be worn. I shall wear silver shoes too. I shall celebrate in style with my nearest and dearest, my wonderful family. We shall wine and dine on the finest. We shall laugh and reminisce and look forward. Cryptic messages in my diary soon to be told. Its only a number and not really that old.
Medals have been won and challenges achieved. The next season begins with goals anew. The next decade of dreams waiting to unfurl, races to be done and most precious of all, time to be spent with my most special girl.
Tuesday, 12 August 2014
Home and Away
I was unsure if I needed to pack my running kit for my holiday. I wanted to pack light and trainers are heavy and cumbersome compared to another pair of sparkly flip flops. Plus I would be too hot to wear them en route, I was longing for that blast of hot hair to hit me in the face and once my foot hit the top step to disembark from the plane my freshly manicured toes needed to be sunshine ready.
I was also feeling somewhat tired and wondered if my week away needed total relaxation, long lie ins and late nights sitting on the balcony enjoying copious amounts of rose wine. My knees were still not completely recovered from my last race and a trip up the garden steps resulting in a freshly scraped layer of skin removal from both and a bruised chin had me thinking it was time for a complete rest. Save the running for home.
So, the running kit didn't even make it to the 'to be considered for packing pile.'
Then my mind started thinking, what if there was a lovely long stretch of downhill road from mountain top to beach to be attempted? What if there was a lovely long coast road to be enjoyed? What if there was a mountain top trail to be explored?
And that was that. The trainers were in the bag.
Three early morning get ups had me enjoying an almost deserted port, save for the other runners. Who by the way were very serious looking and barely acknowledged my wide smile and morning hola's. I set out from the hotel just as the sun peeped over the top of the mountain. My first outing took me up the hill and back down to a park with a running track. I had spotted runners tracking the evening before and I was going to have me some of that! Two dusty loops and I was bored and so I headed out along the sea front towards the hill that headed up to the lighthouse.
I didn't climb to the top until my second run. This time Mr B got up too, he set off a few minutes before me, he was walking to the top and I was jogging gently, hoping to reach the top without stopping. I almost made it but the final switch back had me gasping for breath, sweat dripping from every pore and legs feeling like jelly. I walked the final part and took in the glorious view whilst I waited for my husband to join me and share the joy of being alive and fit and well with me.
We took the tram into the town of Soller and I calculated the journey there and back was probably about 6k, and mentally planned my next run. I could have that glass of rose wine, that pastry, that ice cream, after all I had brought my running shoes, I'd earn them! I set out on my third run fully intending to follow the road into the town but the lure of the lighthouse called me back up the hill. This time I couldn't manage so far before walking, but hey, I didn't care one bit. I also attempted the trail at the top. Sadly the terrain immediately reminded me of the Selworthy Beacon trail and neither my knees or my head were ready for that. Instead I enjoyed the downhill all the way to the bottom. And, I didn't fall. Well not then anyway, I did manage to slip down the last three steps of the hotel on our last day, at least my knees were saved this time, my bottom took the brunt this time. I'm seriously thinking this falling over malarkey might need looking into now.
Being out and about before the rest of the world puts a truly magical slant onto a place. Just the workers getting everything ready for the hordes of tourists. Rubbish collectors, sand sweepers and tram drivers, all far more smiley than the runners. Still waters, lone swimmers, bathing birds. Bobbing dinghies alongside the sleeping super yachts and cruisers. Dog walkers, stationary taxis and the postie. Heaven, glorious peaceful heaven. Running is relaxation. Running is recuperation. Running is for home and away.
I swam too. No waves, perfectly still, clear, warm water. I spent many hours floating and studying the homes around the port. I eventually chose a villa as my perfect home. A villa in need of renovation. Perfectly placed atop one of the lower mountains, right around at one end of the port. A beautiful view looking out across the boats and restaurants and from the back a never ending vista of sea. Yep, that's the one, I'll take it. I would never have to think about packing my trainers again.
I wonder if my granddaughter would like to spend long hot summers in Mallorca with her Nanna and Pops?
I was also feeling somewhat tired and wondered if my week away needed total relaxation, long lie ins and late nights sitting on the balcony enjoying copious amounts of rose wine. My knees were still not completely recovered from my last race and a trip up the garden steps resulting in a freshly scraped layer of skin removal from both and a bruised chin had me thinking it was time for a complete rest. Save the running for home.
So, the running kit didn't even make it to the 'to be considered for packing pile.'
Then my mind started thinking, what if there was a lovely long stretch of downhill road from mountain top to beach to be attempted? What if there was a lovely long coast road to be enjoyed? What if there was a mountain top trail to be explored?
And that was that. The trainers were in the bag.
Three early morning get ups had me enjoying an almost deserted port, save for the other runners. Who by the way were very serious looking and barely acknowledged my wide smile and morning hola's. I set out from the hotel just as the sun peeped over the top of the mountain. My first outing took me up the hill and back down to a park with a running track. I had spotted runners tracking the evening before and I was going to have me some of that! Two dusty loops and I was bored and so I headed out along the sea front towards the hill that headed up to the lighthouse.
I didn't climb to the top until my second run. This time Mr B got up too, he set off a few minutes before me, he was walking to the top and I was jogging gently, hoping to reach the top without stopping. I almost made it but the final switch back had me gasping for breath, sweat dripping from every pore and legs feeling like jelly. I walked the final part and took in the glorious view whilst I waited for my husband to join me and share the joy of being alive and fit and well with me.
We took the tram into the town of Soller and I calculated the journey there and back was probably about 6k, and mentally planned my next run. I could have that glass of rose wine, that pastry, that ice cream, after all I had brought my running shoes, I'd earn them! I set out on my third run fully intending to follow the road into the town but the lure of the lighthouse called me back up the hill. This time I couldn't manage so far before walking, but hey, I didn't care one bit. I also attempted the trail at the top. Sadly the terrain immediately reminded me of the Selworthy Beacon trail and neither my knees or my head were ready for that. Instead I enjoyed the downhill all the way to the bottom. And, I didn't fall. Well not then anyway, I did manage to slip down the last three steps of the hotel on our last day, at least my knees were saved this time, my bottom took the brunt this time. I'm seriously thinking this falling over malarkey might need looking into now.
Being out and about before the rest of the world puts a truly magical slant onto a place. Just the workers getting everything ready for the hordes of tourists. Rubbish collectors, sand sweepers and tram drivers, all far more smiley than the runners. Still waters, lone swimmers, bathing birds. Bobbing dinghies alongside the sleeping super yachts and cruisers. Dog walkers, stationary taxis and the postie. Heaven, glorious peaceful heaven. Running is relaxation. Running is recuperation. Running is for home and away.
I swam too. No waves, perfectly still, clear, warm water. I spent many hours floating and studying the homes around the port. I eventually chose a villa as my perfect home. A villa in need of renovation. Perfectly placed atop one of the lower mountains, right around at one end of the port. A beautiful view looking out across the boats and restaurants and from the back a never ending vista of sea. Yep, that's the one, I'll take it. I would never have to think about packing my trainers again.
I wonder if my granddaughter would like to spend long hot summers in Mallorca with her Nanna and Pops?
Friday, 18 July 2014
Beacon to Beach
Last week I ran the Beacon to Beach race. I had really been looking forward to what I falsely presumed would be a downhill all the way with a bit of flat at the end run.
On the Friday evening my running buddy Fi and myself studied the race details and eventually resorted to looking at the OS map to check the coordinates and where we needed to be. We found Selworthy Beacon atop Bossington Hill and decided we would need to head for Selworthy in order to reach the start.
Come Sunday morning this is where we headed only to find narrow lanes ending with a 'not suitable for motor vehicles' sign. Oh. Ok, lets move onto Allerford and see if we can get to the top from there. Um, that'll not be the right place either then! Yes, we could walk to the top, a steep climb for twenty minutes but, no, the kindly gentleman told us, we really needed to go back into Minehead and up North Hill to get to the start of the race.
We retraced our journey and decided to head for the finish line where hopefully we would be able to get the limited minibus lift to the top. Time was ticking by and the car park was filling but we duly found a space and dashed for the minibus only to see it turning out of the car park. As the sign was still displayed we decided to wait and hope another one would be along soon.
We left Minehead in warm sunshine and arrived at the start in almost drizzly and quite breezy chilly weather. Our singlets and shorts quite the wrong attire for standing around waiting. We sheltered alongside the parked vehicles and were grateful that our foray around the surrounding area had left us with only ten minutes to wait for the start.
Now, remember I mentioned my hopes of a downhill and flat race? It started with an up, a slow and steady up but nonetheless an up. Humph. This was not what I had envisaged at all. The horn sounded and suddenly we were all hurtling through the gate along the track. So many people, no time to dawdle but within seconds Fi was edging away from me. Hills always kill my times and I just had to dig in and keep going. My team were long gone and I settled in for the climb. Being a slow and steady runner and dropping further back into the field I had time to look out over the view of Porlock Bay, way down below bathed in glorious sunshine.
Soon the up eased out into a short stretch of flat before we were rising more steeply up to the beacon. A gentle downhill section followed and then disaster struck. I fell. I fell badly. As soon as I started to go I knew there was no saving and resigned myself to the forthcoming hit. Oh my goodness did that hurt. My left knee hit the rocks and my upper body and leg slid along the stones in the rut. I wanted to cry. It hurt like hell. A very nice young man of about twelve or so helped me to my feet, retrieved my water bottle and was very concerned for my well being, it took me quite a bit of thanks before I managed to shoo him along to do his own race and not worry about me. Runners all around me asked if I was Ok whilst I stood dazed with a bleeding knee. What to do? Carry on or stop. I had fallen just before one of the relay team change over stations and I decided I would carry on to the next relay change over and by then I would know if I hurt just because I had fallen or if I had actually damaged my knee.
Next we dropped down over into the wooded area of North Hill. Marshals warned to slow down and take care as the way ahead could get quite slippery. I took my time and even managed to pass a few people. My knee hurt like hell but the bleeding seemed to have stopped and the trail was softer under foot so I tried to enjoy myself. Before I knew it I went over again. Heaven only knows why I tripped that time but this was steeper ground and smoother thankfully but I hit the ground hard and slid for what felt like forever. I managed to get myself sitting up and cried whilst I felt very sorry for myself. Two burly chaps took me under the arms and got me back onto my feet whilst a third suggested I walk for a while.
More kindness form the runners around me making sure I was OK whilst I realised I actually had no choice whatsoever but to carry on as this would be the only way to get to the finish. I re-pinned my torn number and gingerly tested walking, my right knee now bleeding, my shoulders scraped and my sweaty body now covered in a fine muddy dust and my pride well and truly in tatters. I walked for a little bit but soon decided this was going to take too long, I still had quite some distance to go, and gently sped up to a jog.
Eventually I reached the bottom and thank goodness out onto a tarmac road. I headed along the sea front and felt all alone. I was so far behind everyone else I really wasn't sure I was going the right way. I decided I had to keep going until I saw a marshal and eventually I did. Im sure most of the pedestrians were unaware of the race and I was duly ignored by quite a lot of them. I did get one shout out that was very special as the lady had read my club name on my vest. At last I reached the crossing point and headed towards the West Somerset Railway Line where I had to wait for the Thomas the Tank Engine steam train to puff past. A welcome breather maybe but I was seriously concerned I wouldn't be able to get going again.
I was directed up past the hospital and I wondered if they were open on a Sunday and if I would be needing their services, oh and this was an incline once again. At last I reached the college and onto grass. As I turned the corner I saw that I had to run down a steep bank, I edged to the corner determined not to fall in front of the crowd and made my way to the bottom. Sadly my spirit did not have an ounce of sprint finish about it but I ran to the finish. I heard Fi and her family shouting for me and I crossed the line and spotted my finish time of 1hr 10. I was not the only team member to fall, Phil also damaged his knee and hurt his rib.
It eventually dawned on me that for 7 miles I had actually done a good time, then I was cross, had I not fallen I could have got a wriggle on along the front and done a sprint finish and my time would have been cracking, for me. When I studied my stats I had actually done a really good pace up those hills.
The day after I could barely walk, the next day the bruising really began to come out and my body ached from head to foot. By Wednesday walking had become easier but banging my knee on the table leg reminded my how badly I had hurt it. Today I worked with the reception children and we compared bruised knees, mine were right up there I have to say and they seemed quite impressed that I had fallen over twice!
So there we have it, I'm out of action. Maybe I'm not a trail runner. Maybe I should stick to solid, flat ground. After fall one I remember muttering that I would never do this race again. After fall two it was a definite never again. Almost a week later and maybe...
Kerry, Fi, Lyn, Gemma
On the Friday evening my running buddy Fi and myself studied the race details and eventually resorted to looking at the OS map to check the coordinates and where we needed to be. We found Selworthy Beacon atop Bossington Hill and decided we would need to head for Selworthy in order to reach the start.
Come Sunday morning this is where we headed only to find narrow lanes ending with a 'not suitable for motor vehicles' sign. Oh. Ok, lets move onto Allerford and see if we can get to the top from there. Um, that'll not be the right place either then! Yes, we could walk to the top, a steep climb for twenty minutes but, no, the kindly gentleman told us, we really needed to go back into Minehead and up North Hill to get to the start of the race.
We retraced our journey and decided to head for the finish line where hopefully we would be able to get the limited minibus lift to the top. Time was ticking by and the car park was filling but we duly found a space and dashed for the minibus only to see it turning out of the car park. As the sign was still displayed we decided to wait and hope another one would be along soon.
We left Minehead in warm sunshine and arrived at the start in almost drizzly and quite breezy chilly weather. Our singlets and shorts quite the wrong attire for standing around waiting. We sheltered alongside the parked vehicles and were grateful that our foray around the surrounding area had left us with only ten minutes to wait for the start.
Now, remember I mentioned my hopes of a downhill and flat race? It started with an up, a slow and steady up but nonetheless an up. Humph. This was not what I had envisaged at all. The horn sounded and suddenly we were all hurtling through the gate along the track. So many people, no time to dawdle but within seconds Fi was edging away from me. Hills always kill my times and I just had to dig in and keep going. My team were long gone and I settled in for the climb. Being a slow and steady runner and dropping further back into the field I had time to look out over the view of Porlock Bay, way down below bathed in glorious sunshine.
Soon the up eased out into a short stretch of flat before we were rising more steeply up to the beacon. A gentle downhill section followed and then disaster struck. I fell. I fell badly. As soon as I started to go I knew there was no saving and resigned myself to the forthcoming hit. Oh my goodness did that hurt. My left knee hit the rocks and my upper body and leg slid along the stones in the rut. I wanted to cry. It hurt like hell. A very nice young man of about twelve or so helped me to my feet, retrieved my water bottle and was very concerned for my well being, it took me quite a bit of thanks before I managed to shoo him along to do his own race and not worry about me. Runners all around me asked if I was Ok whilst I stood dazed with a bleeding knee. What to do? Carry on or stop. I had fallen just before one of the relay team change over stations and I decided I would carry on to the next relay change over and by then I would know if I hurt just because I had fallen or if I had actually damaged my knee.
Next we dropped down over into the wooded area of North Hill. Marshals warned to slow down and take care as the way ahead could get quite slippery. I took my time and even managed to pass a few people. My knee hurt like hell but the bleeding seemed to have stopped and the trail was softer under foot so I tried to enjoy myself. Before I knew it I went over again. Heaven only knows why I tripped that time but this was steeper ground and smoother thankfully but I hit the ground hard and slid for what felt like forever. I managed to get myself sitting up and cried whilst I felt very sorry for myself. Two burly chaps took me under the arms and got me back onto my feet whilst a third suggested I walk for a while.
More kindness form the runners around me making sure I was OK whilst I realised I actually had no choice whatsoever but to carry on as this would be the only way to get to the finish. I re-pinned my torn number and gingerly tested walking, my right knee now bleeding, my shoulders scraped and my sweaty body now covered in a fine muddy dust and my pride well and truly in tatters. I walked for a little bit but soon decided this was going to take too long, I still had quite some distance to go, and gently sped up to a jog.
Eventually I reached the bottom and thank goodness out onto a tarmac road. I headed along the sea front and felt all alone. I was so far behind everyone else I really wasn't sure I was going the right way. I decided I had to keep going until I saw a marshal and eventually I did. Im sure most of the pedestrians were unaware of the race and I was duly ignored by quite a lot of them. I did get one shout out that was very special as the lady had read my club name on my vest. At last I reached the crossing point and headed towards the West Somerset Railway Line where I had to wait for the Thomas the Tank Engine steam train to puff past. A welcome breather maybe but I was seriously concerned I wouldn't be able to get going again.
I was directed up past the hospital and I wondered if they were open on a Sunday and if I would be needing their services, oh and this was an incline once again. At last I reached the college and onto grass. As I turned the corner I saw that I had to run down a steep bank, I edged to the corner determined not to fall in front of the crowd and made my way to the bottom. Sadly my spirit did not have an ounce of sprint finish about it but I ran to the finish. I heard Fi and her family shouting for me and I crossed the line and spotted my finish time of 1hr 10. I was not the only team member to fall, Phil also damaged his knee and hurt his rib.
It eventually dawned on me that for 7 miles I had actually done a good time, then I was cross, had I not fallen I could have got a wriggle on along the front and done a sprint finish and my time would have been cracking, for me. When I studied my stats I had actually done a really good pace up those hills.
The day after I could barely walk, the next day the bruising really began to come out and my body ached from head to foot. By Wednesday walking had become easier but banging my knee on the table leg reminded my how badly I had hurt it. Today I worked with the reception children and we compared bruised knees, mine were right up there I have to say and they seemed quite impressed that I had fallen over twice!
So there we have it, I'm out of action. Maybe I'm not a trail runner. Maybe I should stick to solid, flat ground. After fall one I remember muttering that I would never do this race again. After fall two it was a definite never again. Almost a week later and maybe...
Kerry, Fi, Lyn, Gemma
Sunday, 29 June 2014
Every second counts.
This year I shall be 50 years old. 18262.1 days old. 1,577,836,800 seconds old.
Time moves on, it takes us back and forth in memories and every second is precious. Hours, days and years pass and yet sometimes events make us feel like it was only yesterday we left school, made a new friend or took up a hobby.
Thirty four years ago I left school to begin my adult life. I have kept in touch with several school friends some of whom only in recent years through the wonders of the technical revolution. One bestie I have travelled half way round the world for, twice. The magic of a real hug after months of virtual ones is incredibly powerful.
Though Facebook I have been able to add my congratulations to friends I have yet to re meet up with who are also celebrating their 50th year this year. I had the pleasure of visiting north Devon a couple of months back to join in festivities for a particularly special friend, a great night of dancing and drinking was had. Last night I partied in a barn, a real barn, with a disco and a large number of people! This bestie I had not seen since the day we parted company on our last school day.
All these people have not changed one bit. OK, we may look a bit older and we are certainly wiser from life experiences but underneath we are exactly the same. I loved them then and I love them now.
I consider myself very lucky to have met many friends along the way. My husband, of course, no one knows me better, he really can read me like a book. Some stay the course and if they've been with me this long then I shall not be letting them go anytime soon. They are a very important part of my life. Thankfully not so many where circumstances have sent us on different paths and new ones bringing friendship, support and encouragement in many guises.
My Timehop app took me back four years this morning to my Facebook status that read "5K, 42 minutes, I'm feeling sick and I need a lie down." Yesterday I completed my parkrun 5K in 30 minutes and 3 seconds. I still felt sick and I could have had a lie down but settled for a perch on a bench. Twelve minutes improvement in four years, to say I'm over the moon would be an understatement. (This is my official parkrun time, my coach's time has me at sub 30 and had I not had to stop and tie my laces my official time would have also been under 30!)
A few months back a new friend took me under her wing and has very kindly been nurturing me along in my quest to improve my running. She devised a plan for me, this encouraged me to do speed work and I even ventured onto the track. She explained how to increase my distances, slowly and steadily and most importantly she made me realise that running sometimes should just be an easy and enjoyable outing. Sometimes she also forgoes her own parkruns to run with me, to pace me and to keep me going. Added to this one of my running club leaders has been leading sessions on exercises, stretching, track and hill. Fellow runners are incredibly supportive and encouraging. All in all I am incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such good people. All of these wonderful people have helped me to improve my running and I did not think this would be possible. I am very grateful to each and everyone of them. Thank you all.
This morning I have spent time with another very good friend, sadly she is injured but we did manage a few loops around the park and very many minutes putting the world to rights. Her most important message to me today was to concentrate on the seconds you are currently in. Enjoy each and every one of them as much as you can. Thinking back to happy times is good, but you can't change the not so happy ones so don't dwell upon them, remember them and put them away. Thinking forward is good for time planning and all that organisational stuff but there's no point wasting precious time worrying about chores waiting at home until you get home.
Every second is precious, make the most of each and every one of them. Oh, and those three seconds I need to lose on my parkrun time, they'll happen, and be sure, you will hear me scream when it happens!
Sunday, 8 June 2014
Loosening My Laces
I've clocked up 23 miles this week. I'm quite chuffed about that.
Monday was an inset day, no work for me. The teachers were writing their reports and I was taking stock of my beautiful surroundings on an almost 7 mile round trip. I added in an extra loop to a tried and tested route that I usually enjoy and this outing was as lovely as usual.
Wednesday after work I was treated to a visit from my lovely DiL and the scrumptious granddaughter. Oh how I could eat her. My heart melts when she looks at me and that face breaks into a smile. Her eyes sparkle, she gurgles and I am putty in her hands. When they left I changed into my kit and set off to running club. Half way along my journey it finally registered that it was, once again, pouring with rain. Fellow runners waited under trees and out in the open getting soaked through, not me, I waited until the very last minute before leaving the dry and warmth of my car.
I am very fortunate that a club organiser is training for her running coach qualification and is needing guinea pigs, free coaching for me then! Hill training was planned for this session. The Vale of Taunton kind of gives away the fact that there are not many hills in the town and I had been pondering all week where we would do the training. We trotted off to Galmington and found a hummock.
I had promised, mostly to myself, that I would not moan my way through this session. You may know, I HATE hills.We started with some warm up stretches and then had to run around the crescent and back four times. Every ounce of effort was required and we had to remember posture, arms, knees up oh and to breathe. And off we went.
Up the hummock, or maybe it had become a hillock, whatever it was a steepish incline but I quite quickly and efficiently got to the top and relaxed back down the other side. No problem, hills, don't know what my issue is with them. I turned around and was soon back to the top of the rise and enjoyed the next relaxed down. Second climb. Actually that was a hill, not a big one I grant you but that gradient was enough to make breathing considerably harder. Shouts of encouragement from Sandra helped and I must have been doing everything OK as she wasn't telling me to change anything. Relief, the top was reached and I got some puff back on the decline.
The third attempt and I couldn't believe I was going to have to do the climb again. I really didn't think I was going to make it to the top. I was going to need crampons and a rope. The quicker, proper runners were gradually increasing their leads and I was meeting them coming back as I reached the summit.
Soaked to the skin, exhausted and in need of a quiet lie down in a darkened room I set off on my final trek up the mountain. I made it, as I had slowed down quite considerably oxygen was not required and I was so happy with myself for not having moaned once, I hadn't had the spare breath to do so.
By the time we got back to the cars just over 4 miles had been added to my weekly tally. (I still HATE hills, but I'm not moaning!)
Thursday after school Gill and I set off for our after work chatty run. I don't know how Gill manage to run and talk without sounding like the steam train I turn into! On a whim I suggested a different route and Gill is usually happy to go wherever I lead. I actually took us off road which is very unusual for me. I like roads and pavements and it wasn't long before I was regretting the extra weight from the mud stuck to my trainers. We put the worlds to rights and clocked up almost 4 miles.
Sunday, today, my first trip out in my brand new trainers. Grape, lime and white in colour, gel in the soles and go faster stripes. What more could a girl need in running shoes. I set off on my long run route adding in another loop to lengthen it further and was very soon saddened that my legs were not loosening up and each and every step was darned hard work. I thought I might cut it short and detour back home the quick way but decided that as it was such a beautiful morning I would keep going. I keep reading on running forums that to take a walking break is absolutely fine, but why does it always feel such a cop out?
My go faster stripes were not working, the gel in the soles was not making the journey any less painful or easier and the colour of my shoes matched the colour of my face perfectly. I decided that I had tied my laces too tightly and this was my problem. I ploughed on with my chosen route, and completed 8 miles in a fairly slow venture. Eight miles is better than zero miles so no harm done.
Next week's running choices include hashing, (probably far too muddy for my liking) some self led speed work, (I aim to be quite quick on the downhill and quite slow on the up hill) a club time trial, (not done this before and I am quietly terrified) my weekly run with Gill, (must remember to ask her lots of questions so she does all the talking) and parkrun, (but not in my new trainers unless the sun shines ALL week!)
Monday was an inset day, no work for me. The teachers were writing their reports and I was taking stock of my beautiful surroundings on an almost 7 mile round trip. I added in an extra loop to a tried and tested route that I usually enjoy and this outing was as lovely as usual.
Wednesday after work I was treated to a visit from my lovely DiL and the scrumptious granddaughter. Oh how I could eat her. My heart melts when she looks at me and that face breaks into a smile. Her eyes sparkle, she gurgles and I am putty in her hands. When they left I changed into my kit and set off to running club. Half way along my journey it finally registered that it was, once again, pouring with rain. Fellow runners waited under trees and out in the open getting soaked through, not me, I waited until the very last minute before leaving the dry and warmth of my car.
I am very fortunate that a club organiser is training for her running coach qualification and is needing guinea pigs, free coaching for me then! Hill training was planned for this session. The Vale of Taunton kind of gives away the fact that there are not many hills in the town and I had been pondering all week where we would do the training. We trotted off to Galmington and found a hummock.
I had promised, mostly to myself, that I would not moan my way through this session. You may know, I HATE hills.We started with some warm up stretches and then had to run around the crescent and back four times. Every ounce of effort was required and we had to remember posture, arms, knees up oh and to breathe. And off we went.
Up the hummock, or maybe it had become a hillock, whatever it was a steepish incline but I quite quickly and efficiently got to the top and relaxed back down the other side. No problem, hills, don't know what my issue is with them. I turned around and was soon back to the top of the rise and enjoyed the next relaxed down. Second climb. Actually that was a hill, not a big one I grant you but that gradient was enough to make breathing considerably harder. Shouts of encouragement from Sandra helped and I must have been doing everything OK as she wasn't telling me to change anything. Relief, the top was reached and I got some puff back on the decline.
The third attempt and I couldn't believe I was going to have to do the climb again. I really didn't think I was going to make it to the top. I was going to need crampons and a rope. The quicker, proper runners were gradually increasing their leads and I was meeting them coming back as I reached the summit.
Soaked to the skin, exhausted and in need of a quiet lie down in a darkened room I set off on my final trek up the mountain. I made it, as I had slowed down quite considerably oxygen was not required and I was so happy with myself for not having moaned once, I hadn't had the spare breath to do so.
By the time we got back to the cars just over 4 miles had been added to my weekly tally. (I still HATE hills, but I'm not moaning!)
Thursday after school Gill and I set off for our after work chatty run. I don't know how Gill manage to run and talk without sounding like the steam train I turn into! On a whim I suggested a different route and Gill is usually happy to go wherever I lead. I actually took us off road which is very unusual for me. I like roads and pavements and it wasn't long before I was regretting the extra weight from the mud stuck to my trainers. We put the worlds to rights and clocked up almost 4 miles.
Sunday, today, my first trip out in my brand new trainers. Grape, lime and white in colour, gel in the soles and go faster stripes. What more could a girl need in running shoes. I set off on my long run route adding in another loop to lengthen it further and was very soon saddened that my legs were not loosening up and each and every step was darned hard work. I thought I might cut it short and detour back home the quick way but decided that as it was such a beautiful morning I would keep going. I keep reading on running forums that to take a walking break is absolutely fine, but why does it always feel such a cop out?
My go faster stripes were not working, the gel in the soles was not making the journey any less painful or easier and the colour of my shoes matched the colour of my face perfectly. I decided that I had tied my laces too tightly and this was my problem. I ploughed on with my chosen route, and completed 8 miles in a fairly slow venture. Eight miles is better than zero miles so no harm done.
Next week's running choices include hashing, (probably far too muddy for my liking) some self led speed work, (I aim to be quite quick on the downhill and quite slow on the up hill) a club time trial, (not done this before and I am quietly terrified) my weekly run with Gill, (must remember to ask her lots of questions so she does all the talking) and parkrun, (but not in my new trainers unless the sun shines ALL week!)
Thursday, 29 May 2014
Gluten
I hate gluten. I love gluten, which is why I hate gluten. Gluten rules my life.
I try hard to not eat the stuff and when I don't I feel great. Because I feel good I think I can get away with a treat or two. And to start with I can. And then it builds up again and I feel rubbish.
I knew today was not going to be a good day as soon as I opened my eyes. Tried to open my eyes I should say. Try as I might my body was not waking up and my eyes could not be forced open. A while later I tried again and I managed to rise and shine minus the shine and it was more of a slump from bed to chair than a rise.
My plan for today was to finish the paperwork pending, catchup with the household chores and treat myself to a run. The paperwork is done, it took forever. Washing is on the go and the ironing is waiting. I'm still hoping to go for a run.
Feeling fugged, slow and achey has made it easy to avoid the Devil's foods today. I've devoured an enormous and filling lunch and I might just indulge in an afternoon siesta, I am on holiday after all. Maybe later my head will have cleared, my mind will settle on the tasks needing my attention and I will have the energy for a much needed jog up the lane.
I really hope so.
I try hard to not eat the stuff and when I don't I feel great. Because I feel good I think I can get away with a treat or two. And to start with I can. And then it builds up again and I feel rubbish.
I knew today was not going to be a good day as soon as I opened my eyes. Tried to open my eyes I should say. Try as I might my body was not waking up and my eyes could not be forced open. A while later I tried again and I managed to rise and shine minus the shine and it was more of a slump from bed to chair than a rise.
My plan for today was to finish the paperwork pending, catchup with the household chores and treat myself to a run. The paperwork is done, it took forever. Washing is on the go and the ironing is waiting. I'm still hoping to go for a run.
Feeling fugged, slow and achey has made it easy to avoid the Devil's foods today. I've devoured an enormous and filling lunch and I might just indulge in an afternoon siesta, I am on holiday after all. Maybe later my head will have cleared, my mind will settle on the tasks needing my attention and I will have the energy for a much needed jog up the lane.
I really hope so.
Tuesday, 20 May 2014
Test
Good evening.
I have changed some settings on my blog.
Please can you see if you can leave a comment, just one word is all I need to see if it's working.
Many thanks x
I have changed some settings on my blog.
Please can you see if you can leave a comment, just one word is all I need to see if it's working.
Many thanks x
Sunday, 11 May 2014
Ten Four
Message received.
Normally when I'm running around the highways and byways I see lots of other people enjoying the outdoors. But on my 7 mile easy run today there was a distinct lack of like minded people enjoying this blustery Sunday morning.
I didn't see a single walker or any horses and riders.
Thankfully I encountered very few cars except for the stretch under the M5 and through to Henlade.
As I battled a very strong headwind I only saw four runners and ten cyclists.
Therefore, today, cycling is more popular than running 8(
*This is an entirely unscientific observation
Normally when I'm running around the highways and byways I see lots of other people enjoying the outdoors. But on my 7 mile easy run today there was a distinct lack of like minded people enjoying this blustery Sunday morning.
I didn't see a single walker or any horses and riders.
Thankfully I encountered very few cars except for the stretch under the M5 and through to Henlade.
As I battled a very strong headwind I only saw four runners and ten cyclists.
Therefore, today, cycling is more popular than running 8(
*This is an entirely unscientific observation
Sunday, 4 May 2014
Running a Different Race
Yesterday, being a Saturday morning, as usual, I did not want to get out of bed. But, Saturday is parkrun day and as I can only attend once a fortnight, at 8.10 a.m. I dragged a brush through my hair, cleaned my teeth and laced up my trainers.
I had no intention of aiming for a PB as after my exhausting session at track the previous Monday evening my ear had been playing up and quite frankly I was all out of energy. I had snuck out of work on Friday to indulge in a very bad lunch, and also went out for dinner and enjoyed steak and chips along with a drop of Pinot Grigio. Not good pre run planning at all.
Coach was present and I'm sure she would have run with me had I asked but as I was feeling out of sorts I thought she was better concentrating on her own time as I seriously thought I was going to just amble around. Two weeks before Nadine had encouraged me to get a very decent PB, today I had to do it by myself and I really did not believe it would be possible.
The hooter took me by surprise, there was an almighty crush to get through the first pinch point and as usual I had set off with the usual speed of those around me. Whilst thinking I must slow down and get to my own pace I was also thinking, actually I'm OK. Unusually I was not being overtaken by the masses only a few. Fortunately a lady just ahead of me appeared to be running my pace so I fell in behind her and kept my eye on Nadine, inching ahead but still in my sights.
I relaxed to enjoy the run, still not giving a second thought to my speed. I was aware that my breathing was good, my legs a little achey but coping well. I managed to avoid the puddles by going onto the grass, slipped a little through the stinky mud that has made a very unwelcome return and managed to keep up a good pace.
End of lap one and if the photographer was going to capture me then it was going to be with a shot of me looking like I was running, knees up, arms pumping, round two. I knew the first lap had gone well, and now I was tired. Oh well, good try I thought, never mind, slow a little take a breather and carry on enjoying and stop worrying. Looking ahead I selected a runner, slowly, very slowly I aimed to catch them. Some I did, some I stayed with, some we took turns on leading and some I never quite got to, you know who you are!
Then I reached the one mile to go point and I thought back to my run with Nadine, this is the point I needed to start speeding up, I was feeling good so I had to give it a go. This race was feeling very different from all previous park runs, I was in control, I dug in and could hear people behind getting closer, I was not going to let them get me, they certainly were not going to get through the gate before me. Although this was hard it was not feeling as hard as it had last time. I was on the home run, I was gasping a little, no, make that gasping a lot, I hurt, sprint time! Barely a sprint followed but I sure as heck did not stop until I had passed the line.
Standing in the scan line I chatted to fellow runners before realising I had not switched off my timing chip. OMG, as I stopped it I read 31 minutes and some seconds. I could not for the life of me recall my PB time from last time, but I knew I was close. Catching up with friends under the barn, I was joined by coach, she had an almighty big smile on her face as she told me "I know your time," she had great delight in telling me it was 30 minutes something. I let out an almighty shriek of delight and surprise. My official result came through a little while later to confirm my new PB of 30.20.
That sub 30 is calling...
I had no intention of aiming for a PB as after my exhausting session at track the previous Monday evening my ear had been playing up and quite frankly I was all out of energy. I had snuck out of work on Friday to indulge in a very bad lunch, and also went out for dinner and enjoyed steak and chips along with a drop of Pinot Grigio. Not good pre run planning at all.
Coach was present and I'm sure she would have run with me had I asked but as I was feeling out of sorts I thought she was better concentrating on her own time as I seriously thought I was going to just amble around. Two weeks before Nadine had encouraged me to get a very decent PB, today I had to do it by myself and I really did not believe it would be possible.
The hooter took me by surprise, there was an almighty crush to get through the first pinch point and as usual I had set off with the usual speed of those around me. Whilst thinking I must slow down and get to my own pace I was also thinking, actually I'm OK. Unusually I was not being overtaken by the masses only a few. Fortunately a lady just ahead of me appeared to be running my pace so I fell in behind her and kept my eye on Nadine, inching ahead but still in my sights.
I relaxed to enjoy the run, still not giving a second thought to my speed. I was aware that my breathing was good, my legs a little achey but coping well. I managed to avoid the puddles by going onto the grass, slipped a little through the stinky mud that has made a very unwelcome return and managed to keep up a good pace.
End of lap one and if the photographer was going to capture me then it was going to be with a shot of me looking like I was running, knees up, arms pumping, round two. I knew the first lap had gone well, and now I was tired. Oh well, good try I thought, never mind, slow a little take a breather and carry on enjoying and stop worrying. Looking ahead I selected a runner, slowly, very slowly I aimed to catch them. Some I did, some I stayed with, some we took turns on leading and some I never quite got to, you know who you are!
Then I reached the one mile to go point and I thought back to my run with Nadine, this is the point I needed to start speeding up, I was feeling good so I had to give it a go. This race was feeling very different from all previous park runs, I was in control, I dug in and could hear people behind getting closer, I was not going to let them get me, they certainly were not going to get through the gate before me. Although this was hard it was not feeling as hard as it had last time. I was on the home run, I was gasping a little, no, make that gasping a lot, I hurt, sprint time! Barely a sprint followed but I sure as heck did not stop until I had passed the line.
Standing in the scan line I chatted to fellow runners before realising I had not switched off my timing chip. OMG, as I stopped it I read 31 minutes and some seconds. I could not for the life of me recall my PB time from last time, but I knew I was close. Catching up with friends under the barn, I was joined by coach, she had an almighty big smile on her face as she told me "I know your time," she had great delight in telling me it was 30 minutes something. I let out an almighty shriek of delight and surprise. My official result came through a little while later to confirm my new PB of 30.20.
That sub 30 is calling...
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