Bupa London 10000 - Challenge 3 - 25/5/15

So this is the second time I have completed this race and the last time I set a PB for a 10K race of 59 mins 42 so I was chuffed with that, not sure will manage that again but you never know I'm going to go for it if I can. Am a bit gutted that Jay won't be running with me (and think he is too) but its no good running if ankle gives way after a while as obviously I'd stop too. So at least this way, I get to enjoy running the new route in London, Jay gets to walk around, and its only an hour and we can be travelling back home.

So kit and running gear is all ready again.

So Challenge Number 3 completed:-) Unfortunately didn't beat my PB of the last time I ran it last  year, but was close enough really on a very hot day again (and I hate the heat!!). So 1 hour and 55 seconds and I really went for it on the last 2 miles, which shows on my watch time as had 2 negative splits so can't really complain at that. Most runners don't run quicker at the end than the beginning as they are too knackered, I admit I did run quick at the start, then at just before half way point I checked my watch and thought wow I could do this in 48 mins (too quick for me to keep up that pace) and yes it was too quick as by the 5K splits I'd dropped to over 29 mins for the half way so knew I wouldnt beat my time. Anyway I didn't stop, just slowed down a little when I had to and danced around a few slower runners, although some had to pass me at points and then ran like the clappers for last 2 miles:-) Saw Jay at Bird Cage Walk again and he took a video of me, and just concentrated on running to the end as it wasn't far.  Hit my watch button at 1 hour 55 seconds (although Jay thought I was quicker) but chip time confirmed I was right.  Still good time though, I was wilting in the heat but was determined to just keep going.  Didn't enjoy the new route as much, the Strand was a bit boring although Jay and I go up London so recognised loads of it.  Had a nice ice cream afterwards on walking back and was amazed that people were still walking/jogging (not many really running) along Bird Cage Walk even then - I'd finished, collected goody bag and medal, had pictures taken, collected baggage, met Jay, changed, walked to get an ice cream and walked back towards Westminster so must have been at least half hour if not more.

So would I do again, ofcourse, I've already paid my money to do next year on 30th May 2016.  Just the matter of a couple more 10K's this year and a bike ride and not sure what else, will have to see as still have ankle issues but hopefully they will sort themselves.

Now hope I don't get bored, but will still be running and cycling even if no races planned, but I'll always be updating my blog - you just never know.

Life post Marathon and pre Challenge No 3

Well, I can honestly say I've not had the marathon blues this time around. So pleased about that as I remember only too well how I felt 2 years ago. I haven't managed a run yet, been very good resting up but managed spin Friday night which was good, nice weekend away walking and then hopefully put me in good form for a little run Bank Holiday Monday. It's only another 4 weeks till my next challenge and although much smaller - just 6 miles, I'd like to go a little quicker and get another PB there like last year if I can:-)

So first run since the Marathon and it felt great. Ankles good, legs good, hips good, the only bad thing is still the ball of left foot still.  I did go to Dr's and as they are pretty useless (which is why I never go normally), all he said was pad it out - yeh great tried that and had to stop last Sunday about 6 times and even this mornings little run of 6.5 miles I had to stop 3 times to re-adjust the padding as it had gone flat and then was pressing on toes and making them go numb!! Not sure what I can really do apart from try different padding each time I go out -just a pain especially as felt good today.  The sun was shinning, there was a few cars on the road and the odd dog walker (who wouldn't move over!!) but wasn't too bad really. Glad it wasn't as hot last Sunday thats for sure, but nice to get out in the sun again, even though its not the best weather for me to cope with when I run.

So plan for next few weeks till the Bupa 10000 is few little runs in the week, maybe at the weekend (if Jay is working), back to combat and spin and hopefuly a few bike rides when Jay is off too as we need to get pedling practice for the London to Southend Bike ride too. Not going to knock myself out much, its a much smaller distance and I know I can run that as my normal runs now-a-days but would be nice to get another PB there but you just never know.

The ballot has opened today for next years Marathon, I haven't been on line yet - but know my friends already have, so I'm contemplating it again.  Its only the ballott, wouldn't be a hardship not getting in, and if got in again its an omen I suppose so can either run it again or defer till the following year - won't be 50 but one year nearer I suppose:-)

So I decided to enter the ballot again much to Jay's dismay and him telling me I shouldn't but if you don't enter you just don't know.  I'd like to do in 2019 when I'm shhhhh 50 but thats a few more years so need to keep running for the next few years and see how it goes.  Been looking on line for new races, just 10k's and half marathons, have decided would like to enter the Royal Parks Half  next year thats a ballot too I think and opens in Jan and found a few new 10ks although they are part of a series of races in Royal Parks in London and the Olympic Park so am going to look at them too - just different runs with different people and if they are on days when Jay is working gives me something to get out and about for.

So out for an early morning 6.5 miler this morning, reverse route as the RRC had their first 10k race this morning so have to go past the school it starts and finishes from and I couldn't do it as originally we were going to be doing the Farleigh Hospice walk but Jay is at work so that stopped that, then it was too late and the places had gone.  Not that worried in a way as can't use headphones and its a bit more cross country than I like (although probably better for the old legs than road running). Passed a marshall on the car park this morning and wished them well, am sure I will hear all about it soon enough on facebook.

So plan didn't really go to  plan at all, work got in the way big style and haven't run or done much in last two weeks. Hoping to get a quick short cycle in when Jay returns from work today (infact cyclings been the easier of the exercise routes but still feel good to run tomorrow).  Unfortunately its not been good for Jay and he's decided (says he's gutted) that he won't be running because his ankles really not holding up well, its ok cycling but just not running for an hour so he'll be there cheering me on with his Macmillan t-shirt none the less.

Virgin London Marathon - Challenge 2 - 26/4/15

So how did I feel about doing this little jog in London again after doing it in 2013.  Well surprisingly enough not nervous, bit of trepidation about wether I could run (as had not run in 2 weeks) and wether I'd still be able to complete the distance, a few butterflies but otherwise quite calm - very unlike me!!

So had to get up even earlier as wanted to strap my feet up, put on the padding on ball of foot and was thinking of having breakfast and we had to be on the first train out which was 6.26am. So getting up at 5am makes it a really really long and tiring day in more ways than just running 26.2 miles.

So did the strapping and padding on left foot as had problems throughout all of training with a corn or something and it really caused me pain after 6 miles normally but the padding seemed to help (tapped it so it wouldn't move too) was just hoping didn't get the pins and needles which normally followed.  Didn't bother with breakfast was too early, just had a half cup of black tea and a small glass of chocolate milk drink and took banana and breakfast biscuits for train.  Not many people at the station (started to worry a little as was loads last time) but anyway the train was on time.  Got to Rayleigh and Kate got on train so was nice to see her.  She was starting from the same pen as me but in the Red start so she got off at Stratford and we carried on to Liverpool Street.  Train was pretty packed by the end and all headed off to the Circle Line as there were no trains going to Blackheath from London Bridge.  Wasn't too bad in the end, got a seat on tube to Embankment, a little walk to Charing Cross and luckily a good seat on train there and not long to wait until it moved - now that was a packed train!! Anyway got to Blackheath just before 8.30 so perfect timing really.  Jay waited with me until about 9 and then I went in the runners enclosure and he went off.

Now this is where I walk around dazed, there are so many people, so first stop work out where to drop bag off - check, second stop queue up for the loo. Once that was completed I went to the trucks and got ready to leave my bag, was chatting to a nice lady who also had done the marathon in 2013 and was doing again and walked to the pens with her (although she was in 9).  So when I realised I needed to move up a bit I went into Pen 8 with other runners all waiting, some pushing forward but there really isn't any need to do that. Got chatting to another nice lady running for NSPCC who actually works for them too and had run the marathon last year in 4 hours and 20 mins, so was then panicking a little that there was no way I could run it that quick!! Infact I didn't even know if I could run at this stage anyway or if my ankles would just go as soon as the gun went.

Anyway obligatory binbag on to keep me warm (it was perfect running conditions) and everyone started to move very slowly at 10.10am.  I think it took me 10 mins to get through the start so not too bad.  So ankles felt ok and thought would just plod along and not push too much, just relax into it.  The crowds were amazing again and its great to hear them shout out your name. I was doing great up to 6 miles, infact I wasn't that much about a minute outside my PB time, although obviously knew would slow down eventually.  Just didn't expect it to be that quick.  Every step with my left foot left me with pins and needles and the pain on the ball of my foot was awful shooting up my leg into my left hip. Think I must have stopped 4 times enroute to pull the padding away from my foot and sock so that it still felt like there was something there and it did work to an extent but the damage was already done and running in pain whilst the left hip compensated for the next 20 miles was so painful I was nearly in tears. Jay had said he would try to see me at Tower Bridge somewhere, he was there and did see me but probably a good  job I didn't see him as I'd have burst into tears and told  him I was in so much pain.  When you've not experienced that pain before its really hard to work through it, but I wasn't going to give up.  I had my 12 miles loo stop, didn't really feel the need this year but was taking on a lot of water and thought should (just in case).

So didn't see anyone enroute to be honest I was concentrating so much more this year, where as I wanted to see more and experience it more, that didn't really happen but never mind, def. mind over pain though!!

So when realised that my time wasn't going to be as fast as I'd hoped due to pain and really didn't think I could push any harder than I did, I thought just enjoy it.  So had the odd jelly baby, haribo, orange segment and even a mini mars bar and plenty of water from the water stops.  Didn't bother with the lucozade this year, didn't want an upset tummy as the 4 gels I'd had didn't go down too well at times so had to be careful.

Saw loads of people in fancy dress, even a womble passed me this year, but I kept passing the chef and various other costumes I saw.

So Jay had told me he'd see me at Temple again like 2013 but this year he said I'd better be running and not walking;-) So I made the effort and when he saw me at 24-25 miles I was running, in pain, gritted teeth but I was running (don't ask me how though!). Ran over to him, hugged and kissed him, told him I was in so much pain, but he told me was nearly there and to keep going.  He even ran along side me over the otherside of the barrier for about a mile down the Embankment just seeing my pink hat and me waving at him:-) def. spurred me on,although at one point I did have to walk so he shouted move and pump the arms, so I was trying as hard as I could ignoring the pain.  He couldn't get any nearer to Big Ben as it was packed, he made me look at Big Ben and said he'd see me at the recovery centre afterwards. I think I ran/walked a lot as it seemed longer than I remembered even seeing the balloons saying 800 metres or whatever it said. As I rounded the corner to Buckingham Palace I new my mum and her friend Joyce were going to be in the Grandstand on the right with Macmillan so I just ran up the mall, waving at everyone, trying to see them, but didn't - they did see me though which was nice for them.  I was running by them with another lady running for Macmillan and I think we both punched the air for joy shouting yes as we crossed the finish line - 5 hours 32 mins and 16 seconds. So not as fast as I'd hoped but still over 8.5 minutes quicker than 2013 and 2 years older so can't really complain about that.

Got my medal and goody bag, asked someone to take a photo of me and collected my things. A lovely recovery centre volunteer asked if I'd like help to the recovery centre and he took my bags for me and we walked to meet Jay at the Centre. What a gem he was, really kind, chatting the whole way, he was a godsend as was finding it hard to walk and hold two heavy bags at that point.  So got a great cheer in the recovery centre and booked myself in for the best free massage I've had. Can't remember the name of the volunteer but he was so kind, offering to even undo my trainers for me as was struggling bending down.  Calves, thighs, lower back and even my feet were massaged, best 45 mins ever and def. needed.  So re-joined Jay and we went and got something to eat and drink upstairs in the centre before I went off to change.  We must have been there an 1.5-2 hours at least.  Train journey home was even ok, got seats on both tube and train with only a little walk and stretch of legs home.  A runner passed us down the road and she shouted out, brilliant who's the runner as Jay had one  bag and I had the other - when I said it was me she said wow you're walking great well done you.

So will I do again - I've said no, but would like to do another one before I'm 50 - you never know:-)

 At Blackheath - Blue start

 

 

 Digging in deep and in pain

 I did it again :-)

Cheers

So back to work tomorrow, as long as the legs hold out:-) Had an easy day today, bit of lunch and lots of rest, although sitting down makes my legs seize up.  Been wearing my medal with pride (see above when Jay took me out for lunch at the pub) :-)

So thats Challenge 2 complete for Macmillan, and total so far stands at just under £800 so not too bad.  Challenge 3 is in a months time 25th May but at least its only 6 miles - should be much easier than yesterdays little run.

One week to go before the BIG day

So plan this week lots of boring rest and practically no running!! No combat on Tuesday (already decided that) maybe a little run on Weds (but we'll see, just another couple of miles again),  a nice massage on Thursday, day off Friday to go to the Excel to collect my running number and maybe just a little jog even less round block on Saturday to loosen the legs but not much else.

Scary now, don't feel as prepared as 2 years ago, but I know I am more so, how silly is that!!Perhaps because I know what is to come?

So how boring am I finding this week? Ankles are feeling a little better, been using foam roller a bit more but still using ice but now using also on calves as spoke to guys in running shop and said ice the route of pain which for ankles is probably calves, even though they've always felt ok after runs. I'll try anything this week:-) Carb loading for next few days, got all my pasta meals with a little protein sorted out (good job Jay's happy with pasta overload) :-) Got all my gels sorted in my belt for the big day (all the nice flavours this time!) just trying to work out my breakfast as struggled with that two years ago as have to leave so early on the train.

So decided not to run tonight, just used exercise bike for a mile or so, some stretching, foam roller and ice again and rest - and that's one thing I'm not very good at that's for sure. I also walked about 3 miles to a meeting and back at work today so not really doing nothing:-) Now I'm looking forward to my last day at work, a leg massage and some more pasta tomorrow night. Been working out the trains for Friday's trip to Excel and weather watching as don't think it's going to be a hot one this year but maybe a cool, wet one?

So although I've found the last 2 weeks very boring and feel very sluggish in one way, I also feel raring to go in another so could be a good sign.  After a busy week at work, it was nice to finish with a massage and it seemed to do the trick with the old ankle - thanks Dee:-) Left one much better than right and with a bit of working, it felt great today but still icing and heating up and resting as don't want to tempt fate.

So visited the Expo today in London and collected my running number and timing chip (which this year being as its the 35th anniversary) we get to keep them rather than they cut them off which is a nice touch.  This year there are 9 pens in each start, in 2013 there were only 7 and I was in Blue 7.  This year I'm in Blue 8 so moved up a little but as I have been saying to my fellow first time marathon running friends and family it really doesn't matter as its your own race and when you cross the start line thats what counts not where you start in a pen full of loads and loads of people. It will still be daunting for me, but at least I know what to expect!!!

So been trying on my kit and attached my running number to my vest, think I'm roughly set, just the bin bag to sort now:-)

 Next time I blog will be after the Marathon.  Thanks for following my journey this far. Can't wait for Sunday and its such a great opportunity to run for Macmillan again and raise money for a very worthy cause.

W/B 13th April - just 2 weeks to go

So yesterdays run was a disaster:-( Need to pick myself up but its hard.

Didn't run this evening, did a short cycle on exercise bike to strength bottom of legs and some calf raises helping ankles on stairs. Use ice again on ankles last night too so might try that again as def. helped.  Booked myself another leg massage on Wednesday but aim to do combat tomorrow and see how I go.  Not happy I haven't run but then not going to loose my fitness in under two weeks and no amount of training now will make me any fitter in two weeks either so just need to get as relaxed as possible I suppose.

So just about managed combat but wasn't great. Had a laugh thou the three oldies at the front, Lorraine with bad knee, Dan with his back and me with my ankles:-) got to laugh!!

Had my massage concentrate on my lower legs and ankles last night, felt nice but do still ache/hurt. Not sure if Achilles or not as does feel different from in the past. So wore flat Birkenstocks today and am icing my ankles as I type:-) I think I'll still rest up tomorrow as well and may try a short trial run Saturday and plan to cycle Sunday.

Had some good news from Macmillan today that my mum and her friend have seats in the grandstand in the Mall at the finish so that will be great:-)

So I've been icing, heating, taking anti-inflammatorys, oriental balm, Epsom salt baths, tried compression strapping and helps but niggles still there.  Found my KT tape I'd bought ages ago, so watched video on how to apply that so may try that on tomorrow's trial very very short run!! Fingers crossed.

No tape, just ice spray this morning, and boy was it lovely to get out.  Only did 2 miles round block really and decided it was all the dreaded pavements and up and down driveways that causes me issues as if I'm running on flat the pains not really noticable.  Anyway I did feel pains in both my ankles but did feel I could use pressure to push off both feet (so thats a plus), did have a slight pain down side of right knee (more side than anything else), but at least managed to run and it felt great to put my trainers on again. Put all my gels in my belt to for a trial run with 6 gels as never carried that many before. Even wore my shorter running tights that I will be wearing next Sunday for the BIG run too:-)

 Thought I'd better wear this top for this mornings little tester run to spur me on!

So feel a little better that I've been out, although not as confident as I'd have liked to have been or have felt going back just a few short weeks but never mind.

So decided not to go out for a cycle this morning but to rest up and just enjoy it being a week to go before the big day. Make a few donations myself to my friends and family that are also running next weekend and to just chill a bit with Jay which haven't been able to do really since last year due to all the training.

Roll on next weekend, am weather watching and so far, looks maybe a little cloudy, posbility of some rain, maybe a bit of sun but with light winds and certainly not hot - which sounds perfect to me:-)

W/B 30th March and 6th April

So this set of two weeks is all about change, one weekend of a last long run and then a weekend of starting to taper off (so less miles on long run).

So plan this week, hopefully a couple of short runs, combat and maybe even a bike ride (as its Easter) thrown in.  Would like to try my last long run and get it up to 22 miles if I can, but will have to see on the weather and which day I can go.  Jay is off this coming weekend so know a bike ride is def. on the cards and probably a longer one than last time if we can too.

So not a 6.5 miler tonight after work, just a slow 2.04 miles in 21 mins.  Afterwards I looked at my plan and although I haven't been following to the letter, I was only meant to run for 25 mins anyway so suppose I did that. Considering legs have felt great after Saturdays 20 miles, and I'd had a pretty awful day at work I thought I'd smash it, but just really didn't feel in the mood, although did need to get out to de-stress!

So combat went well, no excuses and legs felt great so that was good, new routine from next week, so will have to see if its legs intensive as I may struggle leading up to the marathon. Think I've decided to do what I did last time and keep combatting to the week before marathon and miss out that one and the one after, although if legs honestly feel ok I may do the combat before and just take it a lot easier.

So rested my legs for a few days, although did a bit of walking to and from meetings at work so not quite rested.

So knew Good Friday was going to be a dreary day, had checked the weather and knew it was going to rain, but was so determined to do at least something I thought what the hell, come rain or shine I will go out.  So at 9.30am I set off in the slight rain, feeling good until had those awful lower stomach pains and thoughtt oh no I need to stop. Wasn't too far from my friend  Emma who makes the most amazing cupcakes and knew she'd be up as she has a little girl so thought I desperately need to use her facilities which I did and then was fine and off running again - thanks Emma:-)  Had worked out a longer route but must have missed a turning at one point in Southend but thought as I'd divereted right at the beginning in Ashingdon I may be ok. Did do some walking and did have to adjust the padding on my left foot so still need to sort that issue out for the day, but other than that at least I kept on and didn't give up.  My water stop wasn't opened so ended up gong to another shop, and chatting to the lady there as she was asking what I was training for - obviously felt sorry for me or thought I didn't look like a runner:-) Anyway water purchased I was again on my way and still had quite a long way to go but at least was on the way home.  Ended up using all my gels again, roughly 6, 12 and 18 miles so that was good and unfortuantely still had to walk up the hill home but after 20 miles my legs and feet just couldn't do the inclines anymore:-( But carried on looked at watch and thought would be short so did a little detour and could have chickened out of the last mile but made myself run down the main road and round - 22 miles in 4 hours and 21 mins (and considering thats with some walking I dont think its too shabby).

So my knees are hurting and my ankles today after the run but hopefully with some rest tomorrow and a stretch of cycling on Sunday I'll be ok by Monday again - thats the plan anyway.

At least now I can begin to taper off, maybe an odd little run next week after combat and just 13 miles over next weekend. Can't believe how quick these weeks are going now - very exciting.

About half way - 11 miles

Just got home - looking a little spaced out after 22 miles









Surprisingly legs weren't too bad the day after, although I didn't do much I must admit. But managed a good 20 miles on the bikes Sunday morning - now I'm ready for some Easter Egg chocolate thats for sure:-)

So plan for this week? May have the day off Easter Monday (although you never know maybe a short run or even a spin class as I think there is one on), but def. doing combat again on Tuesday. Perhaps one or two short runs during the week - will see how time goes and instead of running twice at the weekend as Jay is working it may just be the once a rough 13 miles on Sunday. Can't go out early on Saturday morning next weekend as have my nieces staying over (so what a great excuse:-) Loving this planning for tapering rather than adding more miles - let the next 21 days begin!!

So the sun was shinning on Easter Monday, and thought you just can't let an opportunity to run in the sun get away, especially as its meant to be quite nice all week but I'm in work!! So decided to go out midmorning and see what happened, wasn't planning on anymore than my normal round the block 6.5 but ended up just doing the shorter 4 mile route. No jacket, no gloves, no hat or headband, but def. needed the sunglasses:-) To be honest wasn't feeling the love for running today, but was nice to get out and about.

So managed combat doing the new release (legs felt great no issues) luckily I'd say its more arm intensive than legs this time around (last one was legs), so works in my favour:-) And I've been really good and rested since - well when I mean rested I mean I haven't been running although I've walked to a few meetings etc. and up and down stairs which is normal for me anyway.

So tomorrow's plan is between 11 and 13 miles depending on how I feel, at least hoping the sun will be out and the wind a little less than today and I can run without jacket, gloves and hat :-)

Well the sun was out, no jacket, gloves or hat and sunnies but I didn't manage even close to 11 or 13 miles as I felt ill:-( Had stomach issues at the start and then my right leg started to hurt and my ankle so walked to sort stomach issues out (seemed to work) but just had no power to run off on either legs to be honest. Very dishearteneing as was a good day to run, so I've come home after 4.21 miles with tail between my legs feeling very sorry for myself to be honest.  Think I may need an extra leg massage later this week so will be trying to sort that out. And now next weeks plans may change as I'll need to run a few more short runs to make up for it.  Oh well thats the way the cookie crumbles - 2 weeks and counting now.

W/B 16th March and 23rd March

So how was I feeling the day after the Silverstone Half Marathon?

Actually quite ok!! Bottom of left foot hurts as normal, but not feeling too bad. Had a lovely leg massage with Dee and took it nice and easy, just a walk in the High Street and some lunch with mum as didn't get to see her on Mothers Day.

Back to work tomorrow and booked in for Combat as long as legs hold out - you just never know really.

Got quite excited as I got selected again for another Adidas Boost Camp at the London Marathon Store on Sat 21st, so looking forward to that again and then by midweek I got told they'd made a cock up and so now I'm not going - turning negative into positive means I can go for a run with Kate, maybe only 10-13 miles but I shall run both days at the weekend now so more training (you only run about 2 miles at the boost camps anyway!).

So legs held out quite well and managed a good workout at Combat, so plan for the week is a little run maybe Weds or Thurs, spin Friday and a run both Sat and Sun, got to get the blood flow back again, and amazingly I feel great :-)

Well nothing ever goes to plan but never mind. I ended up not running during the week (no real fitness problems just shattered mentally from work) but I made no excuses for spin and really enjoyed getting back to Chris' class it's always a good one, although she did ask where Jay was:-) (he was at work honest!!). Legs felt great too, I was quite surprised.

So am watching the sun disappear this Saturday morning (always goes when I'm running) and no doubt it's going to rain too, but hopefully when Kate gets here in an hour of so, our run will still be good training.

So had planned a route depending on how we were feeling etc. and we did the route to plan - just over 11 miles. Was nice to run with someone, you forget where you are, although ofcourse I knew the route only too well really.  Went through sun and rain and lots of wind, and I got really bad pains in lower stomach after about 4-5 miles so had to walk it off, but was soon back running again. Quite a bit of traffic around and workmen going that little bit later, but a run no less.  Chatted all the way round no probs so that means pace is about right I think - well for me anyway:-)

May use a change of tact tomorrow and do a cycle ride instead of another run as doing two runs next weekend (although that may change you never know). If I plan to do a few 6.5 milers during the week plus combat etc. I should be fine hopefully. Miles maybe not in the legs all at once but def. in the legs.

So did a good nearly 13 miles on the bike this morning with Jay, and I haven't riden my bike since last year so I was pretty chuffed with that. Top gear, didn't have to go down bar once or twice on an incline so can't knock that.  Was surprised legs held out, different muscles to running but even so you know you've worked after a run and a cycle ride thats for sure - well thats if you work hard anyway.

So plan of action this coming week. At least 2 x 6.5 milers I think after work and already booked in for combat on Tuesday, unsure if will do spin Friday this week but am  planing either one big 20 miler on weekend (but no Jay for support as he's working) or 2 x perhaps 12 milers will just see how legs are.  After next weekend its only one more weekend of long runs then tapering begins. Scary only 35 more days to go.

So first 6.41 miles round the block run smashed for the week, felt good, think it was a bad day at work so ran quicker:-) haha. Was nice to get out jacketless, but still with my fleecey top on, shades (as it was still sunny, well light) and no gloves - makes all the difference to my mood thats for sure.

 

 So managed combat Tuesday, legs felt good although still hate the lunges and so thought yep easily run again tonight.  But sometimes you just aren't in the mood, I still managed my normal round the block route about 2 mins slower than Monday and was going to give up at 4 miles but made myself continue and I did it, but just didn't really enjoy as much tonight.  Am now stressing over trying to run 20 miles over weekend, even if includes some walking.  I've done about 3.5 hours running so far anyway so have that in my legs and probably did less last time around and still managed ok so am sure will be fine but just need to prove it to myself first I think.

The sun was shining tonight but it was still cold!!

So I did it, 20 miles, but boy was it hard on the old feet. Breathing wise no problems what so ever, just the bottom of my left foot, even the old ankles held out this time.  I taped up where I've been getting blisters and that worked (until I took them off afterwards anyway), but the bottom of my left foot is really painful.  I bought some extra padding to try and it did work for most of the time to be honest, I just think I flattended it after pounding the streets so had to re-adjust it about 3 times on the way round which was a pain and slowed me down obviously. Then I did have to walk a bit due to the foot but used this when was taking a gel which worked out quite well about 6.5 miles (was planning 5 but didnt work out), 12 and again probably about 16. Even stopped on route back at a shop to get more water as made sure took money with me this time (just in case I needed to get a taxi home!). So no taxi home, bit of walking but wasn't worried about that really just wanted to get the miles in the legs and be out for a long time so just under 4 hours is about right and pleased with that as it included a few stops etc. And what makes it even more amazing was I did it on my own with just my music for company as Jay is working this weekend.

So also got my final joining instructions for the marathon as well, and a bit of deja vu moment as I'm starting from the Blue zone again at Blackheath:-)  Unfortunately Kate who I ran with last weekend is starting from Red but my second cousin Michelle who is also running and doing so well in her training is running from blue too, so you never know we may be in the same start zone, I can't remember what I put down as a time and don't know what Michelle put either.  Think last time I was in the last zone which was fine with the fun runners, it doesn't really matter infact it probably does you some good as if you run with people that are faster than you, you do have a tendancy to try to keep up and it never works in the end.

So its 28 Days to the Marathon today and I was so glad I did my long run yesterday as I think I would have struggled today thats for sure, the wind is howling and the rain is coming down. Amazingly my legs actually feel ok, no ankle pain (just the ball of my left foot) but I can put up with that. Even with the lost hour of sleep I still feel pretty good so roll on the next week of training.

Silverstone Half Marathon - Challenge 1 - 15/3/15

All ready for race day

So the plan this week is a few short runs with a combat thrown in and a foam roller/stretching day as well.  Have been weather watching all week as never know what to wear at these events as all depends on the weather, I get so hot but I also hate the cold and am sure Silverstone is going to be windy even if the sun is out.

So legs did hurt a little on Monday, I was forgetting I'd run 17 miles the day before:-) Managed combat Tuesday but have been resting for few days. Only ended up doing about 2 miles round block on Friday night to stretch off legs, just didn't feel in the mood for some reason:-( Anyway doubt will make any difference now.

Carb loading day today (Sat) and just relaxing, well by my standards anyway as I never sit still - its boring!! Weather not looking great for Sunday's run, don't mind the cold just hope not chucking it down too much!!

Well race day and the weather was grey, dull and very very cold but at least wasn't raining (well it was in Essex but not at Silverstone.  We left ultra early around 7am as I'd heard the car parks and traffic could be bad - well with even an unscheduled services stop we were still an hour early and parking was fine - BUT wait till you try to leave!!

Anyway it was freezing, I had about 5 layers on a crop top, a compression tshirt, my fleece long sleeved running top, my macmillan vest and my running coat and I was still shivering!! BUT it wasn't raining:-)

Loads of people, a good half hour walk to the Pits where you drop off your bags, change, toilets and where the start is - bit like the London but with spectators mixing with the runners, so there was buggies, bikes, kids on scooters - not the best but thats just my opinion.  Anyway I eventually dropped off my bag, decided not to run in my jacket and used the bin liner I'd bought with me to keep warm at the start line - those bin liners def. work!!

Started chatting to a couple of ladies who were also on their own, couple had done the London before and had got in this year too so were using the Silverstone as training. Had seen the pacemarker for 2 hours 14 which is about 10 mins 13 mile runs and thought maybe if I ran infront of him so towards the back of the 1 hour 58 pacer I should be fine and would see how I go.

To be honest I can't really remember much of the track, it was cold, I had my music on, I just focused on running, not really to any pace as such although it was nice at times to have the mile clocks (much better than just the 5K splits at London). I did set myself some people to try to keep focused on, some I passed and some passed me - including the minion runner, but there you go thats all part of the day - even those in fancy dress are normally pretty good runners (you have to be to run and wear fancy dress!). Anyway after about 6 miles so roughly the 10K mark I looked at the clocks and trying to take off my start time which was about 4-5 mins I reckoned I was about 1hr 1 min, so little outside of my PB of just under an hour but thought that wasn't too bad really if I could keep it up, although knew I would get slower as the miles progressed. My worry and I was right to be worried was the water stops, they weren't when I needed them to be. I had to have my first gel (which was discusting as the shop didn't have the flavour I wanted) at 5 miles so needed some water afterwards but all had was lucozade on next stop which I had to have.  Never again!! I can use lucozade but think I really needed the water. Was ok up until about 9 miles (infact you can see by my GPS watch report) Was running roughly 9-10 min miles and then all of a sudden I started to feel really sick - never happened before but at one point I was thinking where do I throw up - how embarrasiing on the Silverstone Race Track:-( Anyway I thought if I walked a bit (which I didn't want to do) but maybe taking some deep breaths etc. would work and the feeling did pass although I couldn't wait for the next water stop as I think I just really needed some water to wash away the feeling of feeling so sick.  Anyway at the last water stop I actually drank the whole bottle of water whilst walking and then I ran again.  Unfortuantely I then saw the 2.14 pacer pass me and I was a little deflated but I thought perhaps if I hadn't felt sick I may have been ok (will never know now).  Anyway I carried on, the wind was getting colder and people were flagging - but at least there was people not like at the Great Bentley the other year.  Anyway I finished it, had tears in my eyes, as I found it really tough going at times, was annoyed at myself as had really hoped to get around 2 hours 10 mins if I was lucky but I think I do have it in me, if I concentate more on the fuelling and water. So think my official time was 2 hours 22 minutes and 55 seconds.  Now I should really be pleased with that as its my fastest half marathon so a PB and I suppose I am quite chuffed, not least coz I did it, but the PB too. I'm never going to be a Linford Christie or Mo Farah but at least I can say I have now ran 3 half marathons.  Won't necessary say I'll be doing another one, think I should stick to the 10K's and see if I can improve on my times for that but never say never.

So had my photo taken at end (just waiting to see them uploaded), went back to the car and the nightmare which was getting out the car park began, infact we sat there for an hour before even bothering to go anywhere and then it wasnt too bad.  Think we were home at 7pm so a long day and today I feel fine but having a nice leg massage shortly.

Roll on the next few weeks of training I say!!

W/B 23rd Feb and 2nd March

So after a few weeks off I'm back:-) my god being ill floored me not sure if it's an age thing, or I'm just pushing too hard (but don't feel I am as have lots of time off and loads of rest days, think it's just every day life gets in the way).

Well I managed my first nearly 6.5 miles round block run since being ill tonight.  Decided to try the reverse route, which meant going up the lovely Ashingdon Hill rather than coming down but then also meant right towards the end having to go up the long run up along the Hawkwell Road rather than down - not sure it was a good idea, although made it up both:-) Was a slow and steady run rather than anything else, but felt ok - not great, as think I went through every pain in the book but I didn't walk so that was a bonus. Glad I did it the wind was in my face a lot of the time, but I felt very hot and sweaty as wore coat, hat and gloves - lights, headtorch - you name it I was wearing it:-) Anyway onwards and upwards as they say, that was the first one in the bag, so combat tomorrow and hopefully another run on Weds.  Hopefully Jay will come out again, but he felt achey after Saturday's very sort trial run so he'll probably make excuses but I hope to still go.  Not long now till the half marathon, so want to be able to do it comfortably this year.

Can't say I've felt 100% and still coughing but did manage a bit of combat (and was certainly better than the week before) and so I went out this morning and managed 9.53 miles. Was a slow run, with a few stops (although not necessarily due to my legs was the amount of traffic) as I didn't go out until about 9am which is late for me. Anyway I did it, feel better for doing it, could have easily given up after about 4 miles to be honest, everything hurt but I carried on. Will be doing some walking now to stretch off and then will do another run tomorrow to get the miles in.

Got my Silverstone running number yesterday too 9004, so all feeling quite real now and keep seeing count downs for the London think its 8 weeks tomorrow - scary stuff (even though I've already done it once - its still scary!!).

Well how I ran this morning I'll never know! Decided to run with my old original marathon trainers (nope I haven't thrown them away!!) just to see if there is any difference. Did feel less support and ended up with a side blister but didn't necessarily feel any better or worse than my new ones!! Set off even though the sun was shining the wind was pretty strong (although was expecting that), very rarely was it behind me this morning, most of the time it was like running through treacle:-( not nice!! Anyway I managed 9.58 miles as went down another side road in Ashingdon and obviously added a little bit on to yestedays miles. So this week I've managed about 25.5 miles I think so not bad considering I'm honestly not 100%.

So next weeks plan is to run again tomorrow after work just 6.5 miles, possibly Weds as well and then long run with Jay cycling over next weekend as he's off - plan is 18 miles, but will have to see how go really.  Can't do combat this week as I'm giving blood and although I can be unsensible occasionally and exercise whilst ill, I know not to do combat after giving blood - so its a sneaky fish and chips for me instead:-) Roll on next week.

Well how I managed 6.38 miles I'll never know although I did so thats all that counts.  Sunny when first went out and getting darker as I returned.  Rest for a few days now, think my legs need it after the last 3 days of running.

 

So it was rest and a few days of eating some nice naughty food, felt so sluggish though that I thought I'd better get a quick run in after work on Friday before my last long run before the Silverstone Half next weekend.  So wasnt the best run, felt a little niggle in my left ankle for a change (its normally the right), so decided to only do 4 miles not my normal 6. Have resisted the urge to go out today as its really sunny as I need to conserve all my energy for tomorrows 18-19 miles (well thats the plan anyway).  Hopefully I'll manage it, hoping it being warmer will help Jay with the slow cycling pace he has to go with me running and that he'll be spuring me on.

Looking at my diary from my training 2 years ago, I'm at the same stage  maybe a few miles extra and I've been able to take it easier this time around too because I was a little bit ahead of myself.  Looking at the weeks left, I should possibly be able to get up to a 22 miler long run before tapering down a few weeks before to a 13 and 6 miler, but best laid plans and all that, I'm not going to stress over it like I did before when I actually only managed just under 18 miles before the big day due to the weather!! 

So my route planning went a bit wrong and was 2 miles short and really didn't have the energy to go round and back on myself for another 2 miles so did 17 miles instead. But as I said not going to get hung up over it, was a nice sunny morning, didn't wear hat, gloves or jacket and even took off my long sleeved top towards the end as was so warm, so thats all a bonus really and the way you have to look at it.  So the rest of my day is a nice relaxing bath some lunch and dinner and relaxing I think.

Roll on the Silverstone  Half Marathon next Sunday now I suppose.  Won't be breaking any records but as long as I get round I'll be pleased (and if I can beat 2 hrs 24 which I think is the quickest I ran the Southend Half in as the Great Bentley was a little slower then thats all I can ask really).

Around about the 13 mile marker

W/B 9th and 16th February

Well although I wasn't as happy with my 15 miles long run on Sunday, when I had a think about it, I'd done 3 runs this week - although missed out on combat and spin:-(. Anyway this weeks miles was about 28 in total so not too bad.

And something I always do after my long runs is put my ice packs on both ankles (never had issues when I trained before but seem to this year) enjoy a nice hot cuppa for 10 mins or so and then I have a lovely hot bath.  I find I don't need this ice cold bath thing that I know lots of runners do and possibly need, I don't tend to. I just do some foam roller exercises afterwards and my legs are normally fine the next day.

I've been using the SIS gels too on my longer runs, although I had some free lucozade gels from the Adidas Boost Camp in December and although I tried them when I was training the other year, I didn't get on with them very well - or they didn't get on very well with me so I had to find alternatives to use - hence SIS, but this year they seemed to work ok - seem thinner consistency, although I still need to have some water afterwards.  Anyway I've used all the free ones, and can I get some more from the shops - no!! So still using SIS gels but they seem to be ok, no issues so think I've cracked that one, and won't be changing too much. Although at the moment I've only used one around 8 miles into my runs and don't tend to get to a second one.  Think when I was running the marathon before I took about 4 or 5 with me and only used 3, so not sure what will happen this year.

Now although I've been struggling more with little niggles than real injuries this year, Jay has struggled even more with cycling slowly whilst I run.  He only has to go out every other week now due to work which is why on those other weekends I run two mid distance runs rather than one long run but if its cold he struggles with his hands and feet.  I suppose running, I'm keeping warm but as he's having to cycle very slowly and not like cycling when we are training for say the London to Southend Bike Ride he's finding it really hard this time around. Lets hope the weather warms up a bit more so he can help me rack up those extra miles.

Although I'm not really following a plan as such, as I think they are too restrictive the one I have in my kitchen is stating that the week before the Silverstone Half Marathon I should go out for a 18 miler, then suppose the 13.2 half marathon will seem shorter in comparrison, so I def. want to make sure I get up to those miles and I should be easy above that by 15th March (although the time does seem to be wizzing by). Last time I hadn't run more than 13 miles by the time I ran the Great Bentley Half - maybe thats why I fouund it hard? although it was in February rather than March so theres a months worth of extra miles!!

This week I thought would only be 3 runs due to work, although was hoping to get a combat and spin session in so bit of cross training I always find it helps me. BUT how things can change quickly:-( So Monday's run didn't really go to plan, not because of my legs or fitness but because I forgot my headtorch!! Managed to do just over 4 miles before it got really dark and couldn't see. Never mind something is better than nothing I suppose? I even managed combat so I thought a good start then it all went wrong. I was away with work for two days but ended the week pretty ill. Eye infection which have had a week, bad cold which very quickly went to chest and bad cough:-( so no spin and no Saturday run so far and not sure I should do anything Sunday either really - very frustrating as I'd worked out a good 10 mile route which was going to do Sat and Sun. And still no running so far yet as still too ill, Infact not been out the house since came home on Friday!! Hopefully normal service will resume soon.

So today I managed a really short (less than 2 miles run) with Jay:-) Yep Jay wanted to try out his new running shoes so thought it was a good opportuity for me to see if I was getting better or not! It wasn't easy or hard to be honest although lots of coughing when I came back thats for sure, but as long as take it slow this week hopefully next weekend I'll be up for two mid distance runs and then the weekend after I will have to do my 18 mile long run hopefully will then be ok for the Silverstone Half the following weekend - eek.

So bit of a naff two weeks really but never mind, hopefully I will come back stronger and quicker - well I can only hope. But Jay did well, had to stop and walk for a bit (said his ankle hurt) but I've used that excuse before too, can normally run through it. He had a good running speed (well I kept up) and as long as he does a few more runs like that am sure he will get to his goal of 6 miles by May.

Photos and Stuff Part I

The First Farleigh Hospice Walk for Life 2011

W/B 2nd February Training

As previously mentioned I did my normal 6.5 miles round the block after work as normal on Monday night. Still gets dark and I'm lit up like a christmas tree but it keeps me safe!! Jay bought me a fab head torch to try and it was really good, angled a little, it really lit up the pavement where there are no lights along one stretch of road!! As been on a course at work for few days, I didn't do combat (felt very guilty) although suppose I can say I did some exercise - the very short 3.5 minutes of a bleep test (which I passed) - can I class that as interval training? Well I did have to get quicker and thats something I'm not used to I get slower!! So thought I'd better go out again tonight for another 6.5 miles. Was great getting out a little earlier, didn't need the head torch, it was freezing mind you (although saying that after training and the Great Bentley in 2012/13 I always say nothings got close to that this year yet!) and there was still loads of traffic.  But what spurs me on is when you get to a side road first, but as I see a car approaching I'm always a little cautious, its always a rather large lady or gent who sticks their nose up at me and just ignores me!! Well those that know me well (and thats not everyone) can probably imagine what I was thinking - def makes me keep running thats for sure:-)

So tomorrow and Friday this week are rest days as I'm out;-) And both times involve food - naughty but nice.

So long run day with Jay cycling, didn't quite go to plan, as it was colder than we thought. Ran 15 miles though but was aiming for 17, we even did slightly different route but didn't add on the miles like I hoped, will have to rethink. Wore the new insoles I got from the London Marathon Store on Friday and did seem to do the trick with the feeling still in my toes and no pins and needles - well not many anyway. Think it's circulation but not really sure, but with the new insoles I was able to run forward on my toes to stretch them out which wasn't able to the other week, why I'm having all these new problems I don't know - maybe as I'm 2 years older?

So this week is another issue as I'm away at a conference but I plan on a 6.5 miler Monday, combat Tuesday and Spin Friday and fingers crossed for two middle distance 8-9 milers Sat and Sun - watch this space  I suppose.

Farleigh Hospice Walks

Theres been a couple more of these walks too and each time Jay, Barrie and myself do the longer walk which works out around 14 miles. I can tell you I think walking is much harder than running - don't believe me ask some of my friends that do the Moonwalk or any of the other marathon mile events that are "just" walking!!

It's much nicer when it's a sunny Sunday walking along the canals etc from Heybridge Basin back to Chelmsford but last year it was cold, windy and wet. We still took part but it was much harder, the paths were so muddy and it wasn't really nice at all.

It occurs each May this year on the 10th so hoping to walk again, fingers crossed, but Jay can't get injured as he needs to run with me at the end of the month:-)

Must admit we haven't done the Santa fun run again, maybe one year if I can get Jay to run again, you never know he may enjoy the London Bupa 10000 and will think a quick 4K will be much easier this year? Watch this space!

Do we do any training for these walks - Er not really, but we like walking anyway. We have often walked around London insted of getting tubes and we walk a lot on holidays too.

But for us although it's getting out and about its also about giving a little bit back to the hospice at Farleighs and giving a bit to charity.

2015 Training

So 2015 - Training for Silverstone Half Marathon 15th March, London Marathon 26th April, Bupa London 10000 25th May all for Macmillan (and even Jay is  joining me for the Bupa 10000)

Well training started in 2014, infact it didn't stop once I'd run the Southend 10K. I just wanted to increase the miles earlier this time to enjoy running the London even more than I did last time. At least I know how I'll be feeling - nervous, what not to change on the day - using vaseline not to get blisters (they caused them last time) and just learning to relax as much as possible and enjoy the moment and crowds.

I was actually running 13 miles before christmas so I was well up on the last time I was training, but I was worried about the winter weather. Mind you if I can train in what I did in 2012/13 then I could do anything thats for sure. So when I'm feeling down I just remind myself of that, most people would have given up, I nearly did but I made it.

I was also lucky to be chosen to run in London in December with the Adidas 26RS and Liz Yelling, Scott Overall and Steve Way who are all marathon runners of Olympic standard. Was an early Saturday start for me on the train - all for 2 hours, but it was worth it.  Little me ran with Scott Overall on the way to the park in Bethnal Green and ran back with Liz Yelling:-) I'm no good with intervals, I can't seem to get quicker and the training proved this, either that or everyone else was running to their max and there is no way they'd ever keep that pace up for the marathon - although saying that I'm not exactly quick thats for sure, but I can just keep going like a duracell battery:-)

So new trainers purchased from the London Marathon Store, still the same New Balance ones like I've been wearing for the last few years, so my running gait and style hasn't changed at all, now to see if I can run without blisters this time around?

So this year so far I'm up to about 15-16 miles so far, been doing that distance each weekend for the last few weeks to get better then plan is to increase this weekend if I can. I know I'm way ahead but just want to be better prepared this year.  Also Jay can't come out with me every weekend this time around, and its hard running long distances on my own, so every other weekend is my really long run with Jay and when he's at work I'm trying to split my long runs, so if doing 16 miles will do 8 miles one day and 8 the next. Still good training as I don't normally do too longer distances one day after the other, but if my legs are still good doing that then I know I have the miles in them to keep going.

Noticed this time around my legs aren't hurting as much after a long run, but my feet are. Not sure if its circulation or not but balls of feet are hurting and couple of toes, been going on NHS direct but could be a few things.  I know  my shoes are good, they are slightly big for me, I've been trying alsorts of different socks with padding and without so perhaps I've still not found the right ones?

Decided in Janaury to email my family and friends not on facebook and add to my facebook page my Just Giving site for Macmillan.  Not giving myself a total this year as found it disappointing in 2013 when certain circles weren't as forthcoming as I thought they may be - you certainly know who your friends are when it comes to giving to charities.  I know there are loads of good ones, and not everyone can afford to give even if they want to, but if all those supposed friends on facebook (I've now had a cull) gave just £1, its amazing how much it would add up.  I'm not worrying this year, I don't have to raise a certain amount, whatever I raise is a bonus as thats the good thing about a ballot place, you don't have to raise money if don't want to, but I think its a great opportunity and a great motivation to keep you going.

I will try to add some photos of runs/medals so far, but so far I've only just managed the blogging part let alone the pictures part.

I'll try now to add my training runs to here, I also use Bug Miles which is great, have a few running buddies I've never met but we all encourage each other, and amazing how many are doing either the Silverstone Half or the London Marathon.

Had last weekend off as went out and this week is bad so far (although did run last night after work for my short 6.5 miles). Hope to have another short run tomorrow night and then a long run either Sat or Sunday depending on the weather as Jay is off anc can shout (oops I mean encourage me) along.

2014 London Bupa 10000 and Cycling

So 2014 as I didn't get into the London Marathon I applied for the London Bupa 10000 - was another chance to run in London and experience what I had done the year before but in a smaller scale.

Infact scalewise it was just as great an experience, loads of people, all the atmosphere, crowds shouting name, cheer points and I had my best time in under an hour for 6.2 miles, I was really chuffed with myself.

Since the marathon I'd been running 6.5 miles round the block quite regularly at home, its like a circle and although it has a few inclines - whoever says Essex is flat is lying. So running in London again at a comfortable distance was enjoyable. Jay saw me at the start line, got some great shots of Mo Farrah starting us off and he saw me near the end too. Felt much better after this race thats for sure. Although the training was much easier.

Now because Jay had been cycling with me whilst doing all my training the other year, I also started cycling and we decided to attempt the London to Southend Bike Ride, about 60 miles I think in aid of the British Heart Foundation.  We started cycling my 6.5 mile route round the block, extending a little each weekend we went out.  Cycling around 7am on a Sunday morning was much nicer, no traffic (well not much anyway) and no people!! In the end we were doing quite easily 25-30 miles on a Sunday morning and reallly enjoying it. So on that July day we travelled up to London not reasling that we had a good few miles to cycle to the start line in the first place, and it was warmer than we thought too.  We started around 8am and planned on only stopping once or twice depending how we felt but things have a habbit of changing.  Infact the hills were a killer, but we managed them until someone went into the back of Jay's bike, making gears and brakes stick, which made it really hard for Jay.  The heat didn't help Jay, or the gears, brakes so we ended up stopping more than twice and when we finally stopped at The Royal Oak in Stambridge which we'd passed every Sunday on our normal cycle rides and the fab man from Grips sorted Jay's gears out and told him that he'd been riding nearly 50 miles with his brakes stuck on we realised why it had been hard, but we managed to get to the finish line quite easily after that, feeling accomplished.  The hardest bit was getting home, as our legs felt great we decided to cycle home rather than go by train and the rains hit us with a vengence.  Infact we had to stop for nearly 2 hours taking cover in the petrol station. I got quite ill being really cold, so we managed to buy some pet blankets and kept wrapped up.  The rain didn't stop the only way to get home was to cycle - I even tried asking for help on facebook.  It slowed enough for us to wrap the blankets round us like cape, putting our hats over the top and trying to keep my arms under the covers too as I was then starting to shivver we managed somehow to cycle the few miles back home.  It was still raining but its amazing what you can do when you really need to get home.  I suppose all in all we did about 70 miles in total, roll on this year when we do it again:-)

We also cycled round Foulness Island a total of about 42 miles in total. Now this wasn't so much a distance challenge but it is very windy and there was even a bit of off roading, which our hybrid bikes coped easily with.  I think with the cycling to and from Wakering to start the ride we did probably do around 60 miles again, and it was quite tough cycling home but was  interesting as you aren't normally allowed on the Island being its MoD. Not sure if we will do this one again this year but you never know, we never say never.

So again 2014 ended with the Southend 10K and knowing again that I somehow got into the London Marathon again for this  April.  How on earth did I manage that twice in three years? Anyway I thought I'd better use the 10K as my first training run, as although I'd kept up a few odd 6.5 miles maybe once a week as well as all my other classes - spin, combat and attack, I hadn't run more than that distance for months and hadn't run 13 miles since the previous year as we had been away for the Southend Half  last year. The only issue was we were on holiday for 2 weeks all inclusive and only back one weekend before the race and even then we were with friends for the weekend so no running.  I think I may have managed one little 6.5 miles that week and that was it.

Anyway the day came, Jay came to watch and I started really fast, infact when Jay saw me I was shouting I couldn't stop and I knew I was running too fast, when he shouted well slow down then I said I couldn't:-) I didn't need the headphones the distance has become quite normal now and I did wonder what time I'd do but was trying not to look at my watch. I was about 20 seconds short of my PB from London earlier in the year so I was very pleased with myself. Two weeks of eating and drinking (although to be fair, we walk alot on holiday, we even hired bikes and cycled) luckily didn't do too much damage.

So after the Southend 10K I come down to earth with a bump and start my marathon training again - roll on April 2015, was 2013 a dream, did I really run a marathon and am I really going to get a second chance of another medal and to raise some more money for Macmillan a great charity?

2013 Half Marathons/London Marathon and others

2013 Half Marathons/London Marathon and others

So I decided to do The Great Bentley Half Marathon - 13.2 miles in Feb 2013 - oh my god why did I do that? I obviously thought it was a good idea, I'd ran 13 miles by then once or twice so thought this would get me into the race mentality. Well it was still freezing, it was sleeting, snow, rain and so bleak:-( jay was waiting for me at the end, but how I honestly finished I'll never know. No headphones allowed, it was so lonely. At 7 miles I nearly gave up and walked, I even shed a tear or two feeling so bad and annoyed with myself for feeling like giving up after all my training!! I continued, but again 11 miles in I think I text Jay whilst walking, he told me I was nearly ther and to keep going. I did and finished in about 2 hours 25 minutes or something like that. I fell into Jays arms crying like a baby, it was the most awful thing I'd ever done. I think there were only about 6 people behind me in the end, and I started so well. I hear it's the first run of the season for runners so I think I can say was probably the worst one for me to pick. I certainly didn't feel very motivated by that one, but I didn't give up!!

So the day of the marathon came, all that training, all the pain, all the money on trainers, kit, days off for massages etc came all together on that one day and it was the best day ever. I was scared, excited and couldn't believe I was actually going to run a marathon (me the fat kid from school that did everything in my power (including learning the clarinette) to get out of any sports whatsoever) and not just any marathon  the London Marathon - just a shame my dad wasn't around to see me really:-( I started at the back with the fun runners but I didn't care. I knew Jay would be somewhere around we'd planned a few places. Unfortunately I was a little quicker in the beginning and he missed me in Docklands but I kept going spurred on by crowd. The crowd is something else, even if you can't run they still spur you on its amazing, I've never experienced anything like it.  Ofcourse you have the cheer points for the charities - Macmillan had about 6 I think, and they shouted my name at all of them and cheered and waved, but it was all the other spectators too that just shouted out "Ali" was just brilliant and put a smile on my face the whole way round even when I was feeling tired.  Now I won't lie and say I ran the whole lot, there was a bit of walking, including down the Embankment when Jay finally say me around the 22 mile mark. I couldn't believe he was shouting my name and running alongside me, I gave him a big kiss and hug and he shouted don't stop keeping going. I was running with one headphone in and one out so I could hear the crowd as its so important to keep you going and wanted to hear everything. I worked in London for 20 years and although not in the west end, I knew the area quite well so to run on the roads around and see all the sights was just fab, crossing Tower Bridge was something else and running along the Enbankment and then seeing Big Ben at the end before you turn the corner, just made me want to finish even more.  I took my glasses off once I saw old Buck House and turned right into The Mall, wow, I wished I could have taken a photo or a selfie at that moment. I just ran towards that finish line and then wow, I was a marathon runner, I'd run the London Marathon, 26.2 miles, wow, wow and wow.  Was all a bit of a blur at the end you get a medal and goody bag and they take the timing chip off and I asked a guy to take a pic of me with my medal and then went to collect my belongings from the truck in a bit of a daze really.  I met Jay at the Macmillan recovery centre and you get such a cheer from everyone as you go down the stairs (well I think I hobbled down the stairs) but I had a nice massage afterwards and something to eat and drink before changing.  The worst bit of the day for me was actually getting home on the train, it was packed, typical train was packed and only 4 carriages and I had to stand!! Luckily I couldn't fall down as I was wedged up against the door, I think I finally got a seat at Billericay - I kid you not!! A take away and a glass of wine was my treat when got home and a full leg massage the next day, wearing my medal to eat out at lunchtime with my mum - I think I even wore my medal to work the next day too:-)

So its a bit of a downer after the marathon I must admit, I felt very down and sad;-( So luckily I had the Southend Half Marathon in June, the Olympic Park 5 mile run in July and to finish off the Southend 10K in October.

So not much training really for the half, I don't think I did more than 6.5 miles each time I went out, may  have been pushing my luck really, but I had only decided to do it when the weather wasn't as hot as a nice June day should be.  Infact it was pretty cold down the seafront and I don't know how but I think I knocked a few minutes of my time too.

July was the Olympic 5 miles - wow awsume to run into the Olympic Stadium, hear the crowds shouting, the route was pretty boring in my eyes, was that last bit that made it for me. I waved to Jay sitting in the stand, he took a fab picture and I was pleased with my time.

So back really to where I began the Southend 10K. So was the second time I'd now ran this race, but did it on my own that year. Managed to knock another few minutes off my time so was pleased with that.

So what's next.  I did apply for the London Marathon again that year for 2014 but I didn't get to run, was so jealous of watching it last year. But had another race in London to run and a small matter of a little cycle ride with Jay.