Well, after all the trials and tribulations of recent weeks, and absolutely NO training, it was back to running, with a vengance. It was the First AND Last Dublin Port Tunnel 10K race, this Sunday, and having entered the race from the Apple Store in New York when I was there in November, there was a connection with my New York Flyer friends, and so despite no training, I was lining up at the start yesterday morning.
For those who have no idea what I am talking about, this race was devised to run through the new Dublin Port Tunnel, which is about to open to traffic next week, after 5 years of building, and way over budget! The tunnel is 4.8 km long, and 10,000 had entered for this unique event.
My son, Liam Óg had also entered, and along with an Italian friend working here in Dublin, Monica, we walked the short distance from my apartment to the race start at the Port entrance on the North Side of the Liffey.
It was an amazing experience, and amazingly (well it is Ireland) the race started with a climb up to the Tunnel entrance (We build our tunnels upwards!), and after a few hundred metres above ground we entered the tunnel to cheers and a surreal expierience as 10,000 people started to run into the hole. It wasn't a race as such for us, we were having fun, enjoying the singing as we entered the tunnel - It was the runners who were singing.
It was very hot in the tunnel, despite the weather outside, and after 2km underground, I was starting to feel the effects of the lack of air quality, what with 10,000 others fighting for the oxygen, but it was one hell of an trip. The view as we started to climb back up towards the exit of the North bound tunnel was amazing - The tunnel lights showing the heads bobbing ahead of us, turning around to see the mass behind, I hope that some pictures will be available from somewhere, sorry I didn't take a camera.
Just after half way we saw the light at the end of the tunnel, and emerged into daylight turning 180 degrees, welcoming the cool December air, and re-entering the southbound - downhill - tunnel. It was cooler and more relaxed as we jogged back towards the Port - Singing Olé, Olé, Olé - as we ran along, laughing, enjoying every second, and running very slowly. Eventually there was a little climb, light emerged and we ran towards the finish - crossing the line in a PW of 65:44 for a 10K (OK, it wasn't a serious race, just an experience), Monica loving her first race in Ireland, and for 10,000 of us, a unique medal, t-shirt, and when the congestion on teh motorways and tunnel syas there are delays of an hour on teh new tunnel roads, we will know, that we can run it faster :)
Good to be back running again, despite the pace - And just to let you know, mum is in a care home for a couple of weeks to get her strength back and looking great.
All in all, a difficult time, but revitalised by the Port Tunnel Race, and a promise of better things to come.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Monday, December 04, 2006
Sorry Guys - ALL IS FANTASTIC
Really sorry I haven't been able to update this, but I was a little tied up in the last week, and I truly appreciate the emails and calls etc. I am VERY happy to report that mum has made a remarkable recovery and last Friday she was released from hospital, back home.
Yes, back home. Eight days previously I was told she wouldn't last an hour - and now, she is back home - recovering far faster than anyone has the right to. I hope beyond hope that I have inherited the same constitution, and can fight the same way when my day comes close.
I haven't laced my runners up for three weeks now, and will need to spend some time working on my body (weight!) and get going again. Now all is settling down, I can hopefully get back into things and back to running. Supposed to be running a 10K this sunday - God help me. Well, he helped mum last week so I reckon our family have had their fair share of his help this month - So maybe I should start training again.
Thanks everyone -
Yes, back home. Eight days previously I was told she wouldn't last an hour - and now, she is back home - recovering far faster than anyone has the right to. I hope beyond hope that I have inherited the same constitution, and can fight the same way when my day comes close.
I haven't laced my runners up for three weeks now, and will need to spend some time working on my body (weight!) and get going again. Now all is settling down, I can hopefully get back into things and back to running. Supposed to be running a 10K this sunday - God help me. Well, he helped mum last week so I reckon our family have had their fair share of his help this month - So maybe I should start training again.
Thanks everyone -
Monday, November 27, 2006
The Fighting Spirit
An update - Monday 27th -
Firstly may I say a BIG thank you to everyone who has posted comments, called me, emailed, and said a prayer at this time. I am eternally grateful, and appreciate every kind word and thought.
Mum is fighting hard, and stil will us, showing such spirit that us young ones should bottle and save for ever. She was tired on Friday evening, but chatting away. Saturday she slept all day, waking around 10:30 in the evening for a little chat, before settling down for the night. Liam Óg and myself managed to get some sleep in a bed, and Sunday morning I got a call from the hospital - Mum was out of bed, sitting in the chair, having a cup of tea, and spoke to me on the phone.
Sunday afternoon, I think half of Ireland was around her bed, the rules say no more than two visitors at any one time, well she's broke all those medical rules by coming back to us on Thursday/Friday, so who was going to care too much that at least a dozen people were there :).
Now, I'm not going to pretend that she has won the battle, but she is certainly giving Father Time a run for his money, and I wouldn't put money against her. It's a case of taking each day as it comes - some days will be positive, some will see set-backs. There is still fluid on the chest, and possible infection, so maybe I shouldn't be as optimistic as I feel, but I am so glad that Friday happened, and that memory will be with me for ever, even if she lives to 120 (She's threatened it!).
Thanks everyone - Liam and Liam Óg
Firstly may I say a BIG thank you to everyone who has posted comments, called me, emailed, and said a prayer at this time. I am eternally grateful, and appreciate every kind word and thought.
Mum is fighting hard, and stil will us, showing such spirit that us young ones should bottle and save for ever. She was tired on Friday evening, but chatting away. Saturday she slept all day, waking around 10:30 in the evening for a little chat, before settling down for the night. Liam Óg and myself managed to get some sleep in a bed, and Sunday morning I got a call from the hospital - Mum was out of bed, sitting in the chair, having a cup of tea, and spoke to me on the phone.
Sunday afternoon, I think half of Ireland was around her bed, the rules say no more than two visitors at any one time, well she's broke all those medical rules by coming back to us on Thursday/Friday, so who was going to care too much that at least a dozen people were there :).
Now, I'm not going to pretend that she has won the battle, but she is certainly giving Father Time a run for his money, and I wouldn't put money against her. It's a case of taking each day as it comes - some days will be positive, some will see set-backs. There is still fluid on the chest, and possible infection, so maybe I shouldn't be as optimistic as I feel, but I am so glad that Friday happened, and that memory will be with me for ever, even if she lives to 120 (She's threatened it!).
Thanks everyone - Liam and Liam Óg
Friday, November 24, 2006
No running - You'll understand
On Monday evening my mum - she's 92 and lives on her own (with good support), was taken into hospital after the doctor was called. She had a shortage of breath, and fluid around her heart. I took Tuesday off and went to visit. She looked poorly, but the medical team were clear she was in good form, they would keep her in for tests, relieve the breathing problem, and reduce the fluid issue, nothing to be unduely worried about. They would assess everything, and they would keep her in for a few days. They had my number, and would call if there was a change. On Wednesday I had to work, and I called the hospital, she was doing fine, and I made arrangements to go and visit on Thursday after work - I wasn't expecting to find her any different than on Tuesday - Full of life, and giving out to all who would want to hear.
So, I went up north, hoping to be back for dinner as I hadn't eaten anything since breakfast -
I didn't get back last night.
When I got to the hospital, around 6:15, mum had deterorated into a catatonic state and was clearly very poorly. I was asked to step outside whilst they tidyed up another patient, then the doctor came and chatted to me, telling me that things were grave, and they didn't expect her to last the hour. Obviously I was devasted - I was in a state of shock, I called my cousin, my son, family friends, and went and sat with her. They gave her a drug to try and stabalise her - miracuosly it did the trick and her breathing improved.
Things still looked bleak, and a family friend who is a nurse arrived, and was not optomistic. My son arrived from Belfast, and we cried together. This was now 8 pm. I called for teh priest and she was blessed with the Last Rites. Others came and went, but we sat with her all night - watching her breathing with her oxygen mask - expecting the next breath to be her last.
Around 5:30 this morning, she stirred, appeared to awaken - Up until then there had just been sleep - almost coma-like in that there was no response. She woke, she recognised Liam and I (My son shares my christian name), she tried to talk - She still looked awful - The nurses came, helped her and gradually over the next hour she "came back to us" - her few words became sentances, converstaions. By 8 o'clock she was asking for a cup of tea - And by 8:30 she was sat up eating porridge.
My cousin came and the doctor who had told me last night she had an hour was absolutely beaming with radiant hope - and my mums Lazarus like recovery to date was astounding - she is in her nineties.
My cousin has stayed up in Newry - They are going to try and discover why she lapsed last night, and will try and treat her respiratory condition today. I'm going to rest, try and get a few hours sleep, then drive back to Newry this evening. I went last night expecting an hour visit and a chat - home by 9 and dinner. What I got was an emotional roller-coaster. Maybe it's a false dawn, and tonight may be the same - I hope not - Us Mycroft's are hard, stubbon folk, mum never knows when it's time - Long may it continue.
But if you have a minute - say a prayer to whichever god you might believe in - She would be grateful.
I may not be around for a few days - You'll Understand
So, I went up north, hoping to be back for dinner as I hadn't eaten anything since breakfast -
I didn't get back last night.
When I got to the hospital, around 6:15, mum had deterorated into a catatonic state and was clearly very poorly. I was asked to step outside whilst they tidyed up another patient, then the doctor came and chatted to me, telling me that things were grave, and they didn't expect her to last the hour. Obviously I was devasted - I was in a state of shock, I called my cousin, my son, family friends, and went and sat with her. They gave her a drug to try and stabalise her - miracuosly it did the trick and her breathing improved.
Things still looked bleak, and a family friend who is a nurse arrived, and was not optomistic. My son arrived from Belfast, and we cried together. This was now 8 pm. I called for teh priest and she was blessed with the Last Rites. Others came and went, but we sat with her all night - watching her breathing with her oxygen mask - expecting the next breath to be her last.
Around 5:30 this morning, she stirred, appeared to awaken - Up until then there had just been sleep - almost coma-like in that there was no response. She woke, she recognised Liam and I (My son shares my christian name), she tried to talk - She still looked awful - The nurses came, helped her and gradually over the next hour she "came back to us" - her few words became sentances, converstaions. By 8 o'clock she was asking for a cup of tea - And by 8:30 she was sat up eating porridge.
My cousin came and the doctor who had told me last night she had an hour was absolutely beaming with radiant hope - and my mums Lazarus like recovery to date was astounding - she is in her nineties.
My cousin has stayed up in Newry - They are going to try and discover why she lapsed last night, and will try and treat her respiratory condition today. I'm going to rest, try and get a few hours sleep, then drive back to Newry this evening. I went last night expecting an hour visit and a chat - home by 9 and dinner. What I got was an emotional roller-coaster. Maybe it's a false dawn, and tonight may be the same - I hope not - Us Mycroft's are hard, stubbon folk, mum never knows when it's time - Long may it continue.
But if you have a minute - say a prayer to whichever god you might believe in - She would be grateful.
I may not be around for a few days - You'll Understand
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Finally - I'm back in the World of Internet
WOW !
These past few weeks have been hard. I never relaised how much I depended on the Internet for contact with the rest of the world - At Micro and Macro levels. If memory serves me right, it was around October 25th that I disconnected my previous service, began the apartment move, and here we are on Nov 21st and my first post back at my own desk in my own apartment. - a relief.
So, what has happened in my absence. Well, the world has moved on. The US has become a more liberal society, those two per cent of voters at the margin turned blue for a while, and the Democrats grasped the opportunity - let's hope that in two years time they don't revert (the voters that is), and more can be persuaded that things just might be a little better in teh world. Still, we have our own elections here in ireland next year to worry about, although somehow I don't think the world will sit up and take much notice, whoever wins here (and it won't make much difference anyway!).
So, what have I been up to. Well, I had a wonderful trip to New York with my 21 year old, to celebrate his burpday. The highlight of the weekend was undoubtably meeting fellow Bloggers on the Sunday. I just wish that more time had been available to chat with everyone. My great new friend Sister Smile was a brick in getting everyone together, and although I have thanked her directly, I must do so again. To those who were sat at awkward ends of the table, I apologise, and I promise that next time I am in town, I will sit next to you, and talk you to death - personally (BCG and NYFG - you know I mean you, in the nicest possible way).
As an aside, and at the risk of sounding sexist (you have permission to slap me!), I can honestly say that running must be good for you, as all the folk I met in NY look so great (JBL and Skylight - don't take this the wrong way either!). Maybe it's something in the water, or the beer, but you girls were a delight - Maybe I could move to New York :) (OK, enough of that - editor!).
So, this is supposed to be a running blog, so what about my running. Ummmm, well, it's been slow - very slow. With everything happening to my private life (like I have one!), in the past month, running has taken a back seat, and my weight is hovering around 200lbs again. I have a couple of races planned in December, but they will not be run hard, although given my shape, they will be hard to run. The first is a 5K, Jingle Bells run, good fun on Dec 3rd, followed by my training partners daughters christening, then on December 10th we have the Port Tunnel 10K. This will be a unique race, with some 9000 taking part, running through the new Dublin Port Tunnel, which officially opens for traffic the week afterwards. So a one off, and a kick start to me as I begin my serious preparation for Connemara next April.
I'm back, and it was long, and I have more news somewhere in my head to share, I'll let you digest this diatribe first.
These past few weeks have been hard. I never relaised how much I depended on the Internet for contact with the rest of the world - At Micro and Macro levels. If memory serves me right, it was around October 25th that I disconnected my previous service, began the apartment move, and here we are on Nov 21st and my first post back at my own desk in my own apartment. - a relief.
So, what has happened in my absence. Well, the world has moved on. The US has become a more liberal society, those two per cent of voters at the margin turned blue for a while, and the Democrats grasped the opportunity - let's hope that in two years time they don't revert (the voters that is), and more can be persuaded that things just might be a little better in teh world. Still, we have our own elections here in ireland next year to worry about, although somehow I don't think the world will sit up and take much notice, whoever wins here (and it won't make much difference anyway!).
So, what have I been up to. Well, I had a wonderful trip to New York with my 21 year old, to celebrate his burpday. The highlight of the weekend was undoubtably meeting fellow Bloggers on the Sunday. I just wish that more time had been available to chat with everyone. My great new friend Sister Smile was a brick in getting everyone together, and although I have thanked her directly, I must do so again. To those who were sat at awkward ends of the table, I apologise, and I promise that next time I am in town, I will sit next to you, and talk you to death - personally (BCG and NYFG - you know I mean you, in the nicest possible way).
As an aside, and at the risk of sounding sexist (you have permission to slap me!), I can honestly say that running must be good for you, as all the folk I met in NY look so great (JBL and Skylight - don't take this the wrong way either!). Maybe it's something in the water, or the beer, but you girls were a delight - Maybe I could move to New York :) (OK, enough of that - editor!).
So, this is supposed to be a running blog, so what about my running. Ummmm, well, it's been slow - very slow. With everything happening to my private life (like I have one!), in the past month, running has taken a back seat, and my weight is hovering around 200lbs again. I have a couple of races planned in December, but they will not be run hard, although given my shape, they will be hard to run. The first is a 5K, Jingle Bells run, good fun on Dec 3rd, followed by my training partners daughters christening, then on December 10th we have the Port Tunnel 10K. This will be a unique race, with some 9000 taking part, running through the new Dublin Port Tunnel, which officially opens for traffic the week afterwards. So a one off, and a kick start to me as I begin my serious preparation for Connemara next April.
I'm back, and it was long, and I have more news somewhere in my head to share, I'll let you digest this diatribe first.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
New Apartment - No Internet Yet, and New York
Really sorry that I have been unable to post to my blog for a couple of weeks. As regular readers will know I have been moving apartments, and my new place does not have interent wired up as yet. It will be at least another week before I can get connected, so please bear with me, and don't think I have been ignoring everything.
Unfortunately, my lack of Internet availability has dovetailed with the Dublin Marathon, and I do promise to give a reprise of events that took place last Monday when I get back on line.
It had also came at the same time as I am heading over to New York for a weekend, and I am planning to meet up with as many bloggers and friends as I can. Sister Smile has very kindly organised a gathering on Sunday (12th) at the West Side Brewing Company on 76th and Amsterdam, from 2 pm, and I look forward to meeting up with as many fellow bloggers, runners and friends, who can make it there.
This post is coming to you from an Interent Cafe in Dublin, and in just 48 hours I will be in New York - Small World.
Congrats to all who ran Dublin, New York and anywhere else in recent weeks. I promise to catch up with everyone very soon, and will be boring you with the details of my new place and how my running is going - Yes, I am running! New routes to be found, and new friends to make.
Unfortunately, my lack of Internet availability has dovetailed with the Dublin Marathon, and I do promise to give a reprise of events that took place last Monday when I get back on line.
It had also came at the same time as I am heading over to New York for a weekend, and I am planning to meet up with as many bloggers and friends as I can. Sister Smile has very kindly organised a gathering on Sunday (12th) at the West Side Brewing Company on 76th and Amsterdam, from 2 pm, and I look forward to meeting up with as many fellow bloggers, runners and friends, who can make it there.
This post is coming to you from an Interent Cafe in Dublin, and in just 48 hours I will be in New York - Small World.
Congrats to all who ran Dublin, New York and anywhere else in recent weeks. I promise to catch up with everyone very soon, and will be boring you with the details of my new place and how my running is going - Yes, I am running! New routes to be found, and new friends to make.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Dublin Marathon Draws Near
Tuesday evening and only 6 days to the Dublin Marathon. ALthough I took the wise decision not to run this years event as I am far from Marathon fit, I am still getting excited as the day of the race draws ever nearer. I have friends coming in from the UK to run, club mates up from Athenry, and virtual friends from the Runners World UK Forum also coming in for the craic, and a chance to run the streets of Dublin. No doubt there will be other familiar faces, and the expo and race will re-generate me to focus harder as I plan for 2007 and Connemara.
This weekend will also be busy as I get the keys to my new apartment on Friday, and wiull be moving stuff in on Saturday as well as trying to attend the Expo, collect arrivals from the airport, have a drink with old friends and new, and be ready to act as Bag Carrier and Cheerleader on Monday, and then setlle back down and prepare for work again on Tuesday (It's a Public Holiday here on Monday, Race Day).
I've also switched my Blog over to Beta (at last), so hopefully it will be better and no glitches will appear. I really don't know if I'll be posting before the weekend again, and I have no idea when I'll be getting Internet Hooked at my new place, so bear with me if there is a vacant space for a short while.
Running is edging along nicely. Gently but at leat it's coming together, and my new place on the quays will give me new routes to explore, and miles to get in the bank.
This weekend will also be busy as I get the keys to my new apartment on Friday, and wiull be moving stuff in on Saturday as well as trying to attend the Expo, collect arrivals from the airport, have a drink with old friends and new, and be ready to act as Bag Carrier and Cheerleader on Monday, and then setlle back down and prepare for work again on Tuesday (It's a Public Holiday here on Monday, Race Day).
I've also switched my Blog over to Beta (at last), so hopefully it will be better and no glitches will appear. I really don't know if I'll be posting before the weekend again, and I have no idea when I'll be getting Internet Hooked at my new place, so bear with me if there is a vacant space for a short while.
Running is edging along nicely. Gently but at leat it's coming together, and my new place on the quays will give me new routes to explore, and miles to get in the bank.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Another Week Runs Past
Friday evening, and another week passes by. This isn't an exscuse for running, but one just to say sorry that I can't post as frequently as I like at present. The new job has been very demanding in the first few weeks, and I have no Internet Connection at work, so I have to rely on the home base, and with late work, running (Yes- Running), and searching for a new apartment, posting updates has been at the bottom of the long list.
So, the good news. This week I have had three runs, including a really good session with Kieran on Wednesday where we really picked it up on the second half. It's not a huge programme, but it's coming together.
Second good news is that I have found myself a nice new apartment, and it's in Yuppie-Ville. Actually it's the fact that it is 5 minutes walk from my new office that makes the BIG difference, but fair to say it's in an area of the city that is going through a fantastic makeover, down in the Docklands, at Grand Canal Dock - You can tell it's an upwardly mobile place by the price tag :) - But the new job helps, and at last I'll have a place to really call home in the Big City.
I hope to be moving in by Nov 1st, and I really hope I cna get Internet Access fitted as soon as possibe. Given I won't have any money left to go out, I may actually get to post more, and certainly run more - Things are on the UP.
So, the good news. This week I have had three runs, including a really good session with Kieran on Wednesday where we really picked it up on the second half. It's not a huge programme, but it's coming together.
Second good news is that I have found myself a nice new apartment, and it's in Yuppie-Ville. Actually it's the fact that it is 5 minutes walk from my new office that makes the BIG difference, but fair to say it's in an area of the city that is going through a fantastic makeover, down in the Docklands, at Grand Canal Dock - You can tell it's an upwardly mobile place by the price tag :) - But the new job helps, and at last I'll have a place to really call home in the Big City.
I hope to be moving in by Nov 1st, and I really hope I cna get Internet Access fitted as soon as possibe. Given I won't have any money left to go out, I may actually get to post more, and certainly run more - Things are on the UP.
Another Week - And YES - I'm Running
Friday evening, and another week passes by. This isn't an exscuse for running, but one just to say sorry that I can't post as frequently as I like at present. The new job has been very demanding in the first few weeks, and I have no Internet Connection at work, so I have to rely on the home base, and with late work, running (Yes- Running), and searching for a new apartment, posting updates has been at the bottom of the long list.
So, the good news. This week I have had three runs, including a really good session with Kieran on Wednesday where we really picked it up on the second half. It's not a huge programme, but it's coming together.
Second good news is that I have found myself a nice new apartment, and it's in Yuppie-Ville. Actually it's the fact that it is 5 minutes walk from my new office that makes the BIG difference, but fair to say it's in an area of the city that is going through a fantastic makeover, down in the Docklands, at Grand Canal Dock - You can tell it's an upwardly mobile place by the price tag :) - But the new job helps, and at last I'll have a place to really call home in the Big City.
I hope to be moving in by Nov 1st, and I really hope I cna get Internet Access fitted as soon as possibe. Given I won't have any money left to go out, I may actually get to post more, and certainly run more - Things are on the UP.
So, the good news. This week I have had three runs, including a really good session with Kieran on Wednesday where we really picked it up on the second half. It's not a huge programme, but it's coming together.
Second good news is that I have found myself a nice new apartment, and it's in Yuppie-Ville. Actually it's the fact that it is 5 minutes walk from my new office that makes the BIG difference, but fair to say it's in an area of the city that is going through a fantastic makeover, down in the Docklands, at Grand Canal Dock - You can tell it's an upwardly mobile place by the price tag :) - But the new job helps, and at last I'll have a place to really call home in the Big City.
I hope to be moving in by Nov 1st, and I really hope I cna get Internet Access fitted as soon as possibe. Given I won't have any money left to go out, I may actually get to post more, and certainly run more - Things are on the UP.
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Bouncebackability
Friday night and I've enjoyed a pleasant evening at home, wathching Studio 60 On Sunset Strip, via my PC, had a glass of Bulmers, savoured every drop, and read over the messages from friends on here. And you know what, they are right. Thomas, I owe you a pint. I am going to do exactly what you say.
I have allowed myself to slip into an uncertain territory, using stupid, juvenile excuses, and now it's time to take charge of things again.
The Dublin Marathon is two weeks on Monday - Don't panic, I'm not Stupid, I'm not going to try and run 26 miles on the paucity of training in recent weeks (months?), but what I am going to do is lace up my shoes, hit the road first thing in the morning and let the wind take me.
In four weeks I will be in New York. I'll have a few beers with my son, I'll be there with him, celebrating his 21st. From then on in, I'll have 20 weeks to the Connemara Marathon, and I will be running under 4 hours, I will be under 180 lbs, and I will be trained, hardened, and back on that Train to Boston 08.
No more pitiful excuses, no more hard luck stories, no more lies (to myself that is), and more listening, re-learning, re-training, and plenty of hard work - and most importantly, plenty of fun along the way.
Thomas I thank you for your words. To others, I appreciate the encouragement, now it's time to get those shoes dusted down, the road awaits..... Heck, I even have to lose a few pounds before I get to New York, I have all those Flyers to meet :)......
I have allowed myself to slip into an uncertain territory, using stupid, juvenile excuses, and now it's time to take charge of things again.
The Dublin Marathon is two weeks on Monday - Don't panic, I'm not Stupid, I'm not going to try and run 26 miles on the paucity of training in recent weeks (months?), but what I am going to do is lace up my shoes, hit the road first thing in the morning and let the wind take me.
In four weeks I will be in New York. I'll have a few beers with my son, I'll be there with him, celebrating his 21st. From then on in, I'll have 20 weeks to the Connemara Marathon, and I will be running under 4 hours, I will be under 180 lbs, and I will be trained, hardened, and back on that Train to Boston 08.
No more pitiful excuses, no more hard luck stories, no more lies (to myself that is), and more listening, re-learning, re-training, and plenty of hard work - and most importantly, plenty of fun along the way.
Thomas I thank you for your words. To others, I appreciate the encouragement, now it's time to get those shoes dusted down, the road awaits..... Heck, I even have to lose a few pounds before I get to New York, I have all those Flyers to meet :)......
Monday, October 09, 2006
I apologise
I am really sorry. I seem to have really been making a habit of that line recently. But, as regular readers (both of you that are left) will know, I switched jobs last week, and things have been plenty hectic since last Monday.
Naturally not everything went smoothly. I haven't gone to the orignal place I was told I was going to, nor am I do exactly what was promised me. Having said that I am not complaining. The people are very nice, the work I will be eventually doing will be challenging and right up my tree, but for now I have a lot of learning to do.
On the good news front I managed to get out and run again. I have been very, very lazy lately, but last Thursday I met up with my training partner and we managed a 4 miler in the Phoenix Park before it went dark. My running has taken a MASSIVE back seat in recent weeks, and my weight is now hovering around 200 lbs - OUCH! Next week I shall be starting back on a programme to shed the pounds and get running properly again. And I promise to get back to regular updates and posts on fellow bloggers sites - I haven't forgotten people, I just have been so tied up with the job move, something had to give. Forgive me........
Naturally not everything went smoothly. I haven't gone to the orignal place I was told I was going to, nor am I do exactly what was promised me. Having said that I am not complaining. The people are very nice, the work I will be eventually doing will be challenging and right up my tree, but for now I have a lot of learning to do.
On the good news front I managed to get out and run again. I have been very, very lazy lately, but last Thursday I met up with my training partner and we managed a 4 miler in the Phoenix Park before it went dark. My running has taken a MASSIVE back seat in recent weeks, and my weight is now hovering around 200 lbs - OUCH! Next week I shall be starting back on a programme to shed the pounds and get running properly again. And I promise to get back to regular updates and posts on fellow bloggers sites - I haven't forgotten people, I just have been so tied up with the job move, something had to give. Forgive me........
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
MIA - Apologies
I appreciate that a few people have been logging on to catch up with me (I have one of those site metres), and I have failed to keep up to date with my Blog this week. I seem to be good at writing excuses on this blog, but I have been trying to tie up the loose ends before I leave my existing job this Thursday, starting my new one next Monday morning, so I have been busy at work.
All the work has left little time to play, either on here, on other's blogs, and sadly, very little running. Having made the decision to postpone the Dublin Marathon till next year (for me I mean), I decided to ease off panicing, deal with the work and get back into the running once I start the new job, so no problems really.
In many ways it's a relief not to be going through those nerves one has when you are 5 weeks or so away from a target race. No worries about getting in the last 20 miler, worries about the pace you did that 12 miler in last weekend. Worries about the little niggle you had in your knee when you did that speed session last night - You know the feelings? And for those reading this, and getting ready for their first Marathon - We ALL get those doubts, we ALL ask ourselves the same question, and believe me, YOU will ask those questions right up until you cross the starting line on Race Day.
I'm looking forward to the next few weeks - the new job, new running, and setting my plans for my first 2007 races. I'll actually try a few short races for fun before Xmas - There is a 4 Mile Business House Race on Oct 16th I'll probably run for fun, and there is always the Jingle Bells Races in the run up to the holidays, so all is not lost for the year. I'm really looking forward to the Dublin Marathon and maybe giving back something to running by helping others on the day in whatever way I can - Should be fun.
All the work has left little time to play, either on here, on other's blogs, and sadly, very little running. Having made the decision to postpone the Dublin Marathon till next year (for me I mean), I decided to ease off panicing, deal with the work and get back into the running once I start the new job, so no problems really.
In many ways it's a relief not to be going through those nerves one has when you are 5 weeks or so away from a target race. No worries about getting in the last 20 miler, worries about the pace you did that 12 miler in last weekend. Worries about the little niggle you had in your knee when you did that speed session last night - You know the feelings? And for those reading this, and getting ready for their first Marathon - We ALL get those doubts, we ALL ask ourselves the same question, and believe me, YOU will ask those questions right up until you cross the starting line on Race Day.
I'm looking forward to the next few weeks - the new job, new running, and setting my plans for my first 2007 races. I'll actually try a few short races for fun before Xmas - There is a 4 Mile Business House Race on Oct 16th I'll probably run for fun, and there is always the Jingle Bells Races in the run up to the holidays, so all is not lost for the year. I'm really looking forward to the Dublin Marathon and maybe giving back something to running by helping others on the day in whatever way I can - Should be fun.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Monday, Monday - Why am I so Lazy?
Another weekend has passed, and once again running takes a back seat. As you would know if you've been following my rambles, I have been slack in my training this summer, and no matter how well intended I am in getting back to speed, I'm struggling when it comes to actually doing it!
Take this weekend for example. Friday evening, it took me 2 hours to get home, the 5 miles that usually takes 30 minutes. There had been an accident and the road was blocked. Now, I had trained at lunchtime in the gym, 2 miles on the treadmill and a short circuit, but I had wanted to get out for a little run when I got home. I didn't, I went for a pint instead, to ease the traffic frustrations I had endured.
Saturday I had to go up to the North to visit my mum - I do this every weekend, she's 92, still living at home, but not particularly mobile, so I go up, draw her pension, makes sure she has everything she needs, and spend Saturday evening watching TV with her. I took my kit, but by the time I had driven the 75 mile trip, I had to sort a few things, do her garden, go to Belfast for some shopping, I didn't run.
Sunday, I was intending to go for a run in the morning before heading home, but I didn't. I stayed in bed - had a lie in. By the time I decided to get up, I was pushed for time, I needed to get home to watch the Liverpool v Chelsea soccer match. I drove home, watched the game, with a beer or two, and so ended any hope I had of running.
I don't write this to glamorise being lazy, or the fact that I enjoy a beer now and again, I write it to try and give myself a guilt trip. Today, it's Monday morning again, and I start the week with good intent. I'll head the gym at lunchtime today, maybe do 3 miles on the treadmill, and tonight I have to study. Tomorrow I have a meeting, Wednesday I'm meeting friends, Thursday, my boss is leaving and we have a "do" for him, so we'll see how much, or how little, I can manage this week.
I have made the decision to skip Dublin. I'll be there, and will encourage everyone, maybe run the last 6 miles and act as a tow truck , but the way I feel right now, I'd struggle even with 6, never mind 26 - C'est la vie. But I will get back, that I promise, and Boston 2008, although it seems a long way away right now, is still going to motivate me - I hope!
Take this weekend for example. Friday evening, it took me 2 hours to get home, the 5 miles that usually takes 30 minutes. There had been an accident and the road was blocked. Now, I had trained at lunchtime in the gym, 2 miles on the treadmill and a short circuit, but I had wanted to get out for a little run when I got home. I didn't, I went for a pint instead, to ease the traffic frustrations I had endured.
Saturday I had to go up to the North to visit my mum - I do this every weekend, she's 92, still living at home, but not particularly mobile, so I go up, draw her pension, makes sure she has everything she needs, and spend Saturday evening watching TV with her. I took my kit, but by the time I had driven the 75 mile trip, I had to sort a few things, do her garden, go to Belfast for some shopping, I didn't run.
Sunday, I was intending to go for a run in the morning before heading home, but I didn't. I stayed in bed - had a lie in. By the time I decided to get up, I was pushed for time, I needed to get home to watch the Liverpool v Chelsea soccer match. I drove home, watched the game, with a beer or two, and so ended any hope I had of running.
I don't write this to glamorise being lazy, or the fact that I enjoy a beer now and again, I write it to try and give myself a guilt trip. Today, it's Monday morning again, and I start the week with good intent. I'll head the gym at lunchtime today, maybe do 3 miles on the treadmill, and tonight I have to study. Tomorrow I have a meeting, Wednesday I'm meeting friends, Thursday, my boss is leaving and we have a "do" for him, so we'll see how much, or how little, I can manage this week.
I have made the decision to skip Dublin. I'll be there, and will encourage everyone, maybe run the last 6 miles and act as a tow truck , but the way I feel right now, I'd struggle even with 6, never mind 26 - C'est la vie. But I will get back, that I promise, and Boston 2008, although it seems a long way away right now, is still going to motivate me - I hope!
Monday, September 11, 2006
Que Sera, Sera
With time ticking away, and much to do on the home front, I have decided to give up worrying about the Dublin Marathon, and look towards next spring and Connemara and beyond. Whilst I will more than likely run around Dublin on October 30th, along with 10,000 others, I will not be looking for anything beyond completion. I have Seven weeks to get prepared, rather than 7 weeks worrying about whether I'll be fit enough to run under 4 hours.
In the meantime I can work on getting my fitness levels up. Look at short races as sessions to help me get my leg speed up, and work seriously on my weight. As I have got older I have found it harder and harder to keep my weight down. I'm presently hoving just under the 200lbs mark, actually 198 this morning. Whilst not quite the heaviest I have ever been, it's heading that way. Ideally I would like to be running at 175lbs or below, and although I am 6 foot and not overweight per se, I have always been light framed, and so the weight tends to go on in the wrong places, so to speak. So, that is my task for the next few months - Serious weight loss, and sustainable weight loss. No point in doing what I have tended to do in recent years, lose pounds, get to a weight I am happy with, and then pile them back on again when nobody is looking!
In the meantime I can work on getting my fitness levels up. Look at short races as sessions to help me get my leg speed up, and work seriously on my weight. As I have got older I have found it harder and harder to keep my weight down. I'm presently hoving just under the 200lbs mark, actually 198 this morning. Whilst not quite the heaviest I have ever been, it's heading that way. Ideally I would like to be running at 175lbs or below, and although I am 6 foot and not overweight per se, I have always been light framed, and so the weight tends to go on in the wrong places, so to speak. So, that is my task for the next few months - Serious weight loss, and sustainable weight loss. No point in doing what I have tended to do in recent years, lose pounds, get to a weight I am happy with, and then pile them back on again when nobody is looking!
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Time Flies
You know when you are waiting for something to happen, like a vacation that you have had planned for months, then time drags. Each day seems to last forever, and work takes forever to get through.
Well, when you are unfit, following weeks of slacking on your training, and you have a Marathon planned for the end of October, then time speeds up - RAPIDLY! It's already the 7th September, and the Dublin Marathon is only 53 days away... 53 days to get myself into a shape that will see me around the streets of my home city in one piece.
I know that hard work over these few days will enable me to survive the race, but I had higher hopes when I entered the event back in April. You all have my complete permission to give me a kick up the backside, and I promise to make amends, work hard over the winter and be ready for an assault on a Boston Qualifier in 2007. Starting now!
Well, when you are unfit, following weeks of slacking on your training, and you have a Marathon planned for the end of October, then time speeds up - RAPIDLY! It's already the 7th September, and the Dublin Marathon is only 53 days away... 53 days to get myself into a shape that will see me around the streets of my home city in one piece.
I know that hard work over these few days will enable me to survive the race, but I had higher hopes when I entered the event back in April. You all have my complete permission to give me a kick up the backside, and I promise to make amends, work hard over the winter and be ready for an assault on a Boston Qualifier in 2007. Starting now!
Monday, September 04, 2006
Eight weeks and Counting
I believe that today is Labor Day (We would spell it Labour), in the US, so Happy Holiday to y'all. For me it's a normal working day. The first day of my 4 weeks notice period, and eight weeks today, the Dublin Marathon takes place. Will I be ready in time to survive the run?
I have to confess I am beginning to doubt my ability to make it. My summer of slacking has not left me in the best of shape, and whilst previously I have been able to recover form and fitness quickly after a lay-off, I am having those nagging doubts this time, heck, I'm getting older.
This weekend I was tied up on Saturday, having to drive up to see my mam, a 150 mile round trip, get the weeks groceries in, then shoot home to spend a few hours vegetating in front of the TV watching Soccer. It was only a few weeks ago that the World Cup ended, and here we are with the first qualifying games for the European Championships. For the record Ireland lost 0-1 away in Germany, whilst England won 5-0 against the mighty Andorra (those blue skinned aliens looked better on Star Trek). So no running, and a few beers :).
Sunday morning I went out and ran a brief 2.5 mile run, clocking 20:25 on a blustery day, a little over 8 minute pace, but I didn't feel great at all. Maybe it was the beer, maybe it was in my head, but I didn't actually enjoy the run, it was hard work - hence those nagging doubts. I will tie up the shoes again today, and will continue to run - I will get back on track, but at the moment things are not looking good. Hopefully, I'll read this post back in a couple of months and laugh, today I'm not laughing (except for a certain fellow blogger who has her underwear on inside out :))............
I have to confess I am beginning to doubt my ability to make it. My summer of slacking has not left me in the best of shape, and whilst previously I have been able to recover form and fitness quickly after a lay-off, I am having those nagging doubts this time, heck, I'm getting older.
This weekend I was tied up on Saturday, having to drive up to see my mam, a 150 mile round trip, get the weeks groceries in, then shoot home to spend a few hours vegetating in front of the TV watching Soccer. It was only a few weeks ago that the World Cup ended, and here we are with the first qualifying games for the European Championships. For the record Ireland lost 0-1 away in Germany, whilst England won 5-0 against the mighty Andorra (those blue skinned aliens looked better on Star Trek). So no running, and a few beers :).
Sunday morning I went out and ran a brief 2.5 mile run, clocking 20:25 on a blustery day, a little over 8 minute pace, but I didn't feel great at all. Maybe it was the beer, maybe it was in my head, but I didn't actually enjoy the run, it was hard work - hence those nagging doubts. I will tie up the shoes again today, and will continue to run - I will get back on track, but at the moment things are not looking good. Hopefully, I'll read this post back in a couple of months and laugh, today I'm not laughing (except for a certain fellow blogger who has her underwear on inside out :))............
Friday, September 01, 2006
Slowly, Slowly
Friday, and my first week back running after my Slacking Vacation!
Well, I am glad to report that I have run 4 days in a row - That's the good news. The bad news is that the runs have only been 3K, 3K, 4K and 2 Miles. Not exactly Marathon preparation. On the plus side of those runs, they have all been under 8 minute mile pace (as they should be), and have been getting progressively easier, and faster. A long way to go to get ready for Dublin, and only 8 weeks to get there. A tough challenge, but all the hard work up until May must still have some residual left.
As to the new job, for some reason, when I actually tell people which department of the government I am heading to, they shy away :) - I always thought that those nice people in the Revenue Commissioners were warm and cuddly.... Well, I am.......
Well, I am glad to report that I have run 4 days in a row - That's the good news. The bad news is that the runs have only been 3K, 3K, 4K and 2 Miles. Not exactly Marathon preparation. On the plus side of those runs, they have all been under 8 minute mile pace (as they should be), and have been getting progressively easier, and faster. A long way to go to get ready for Dublin, and only 8 weeks to get there. A tough challenge, but all the hard work up until May must still have some residual left.
As to the new job, for some reason, when I actually tell people which department of the government I am heading to, they shy away :) - I always thought that those nice people in the Revenue Commissioners were warm and cuddly.... Well, I am.......
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
New Beginnings
Well, I'm back into the swing of things, and life is all about New Beginnings.
From a running perspective, my vacation was a BIG break. I had good intentions when I left Ireland for those shores of Americay, but like all good intentions they fell by the wayside, as the wedding and the partying took over. So it was off to the gym yesterday and a session to loosen out muscles that had been granted two weeks rest, and a run on the treadmill to see how bad things were.
The Dublin Marathon is on October 30th, less than 9 weeks away, and any thoughts I might have had of running anywhere near 3:35 can safely be put away. I will be very happy to get around the course in one piece after the "relaxed" summer I have had. I am somewhat mad at myself for allowing the good work of the early part of the year to go to seed, but I guess that at my advancing years (surely not?), I can allow myself to enjoy running and enjoy living as well, so maybe not all bad.
Anyway, the gym session was far tougher than I had thought. Two weeks off, and 5lbs on, it is going to take a week to get back to a quarter repectability. Well, I finished off the session with a 3K run on the treadmill, not exactly Marathon preparation, and I ran a hard 14:49. When I say hard, I mean it was hard to run that pace (7:57 p/mile). In May I was running sub 7 pace for this kind of distance as a speed session, yesterday it was hard work to maintain the pace period!
Still, hard work can see me back on that road, and hard work will be needed as my other New Beginning is about to take place.
Many months ago I was interviewed for a new job. At present I work in the Public Sector, for a local authority, I guess the American equivalent would be the State. Well, finaly I have been appointed to work for the National Government (The Federal Authorities in US parlance), and I will be leaving my present post at the end of September. It's a mixed feeling. I actually really enjoy the job I am presently doing, and whilst the new job will pay significantly more, my role is not yet clearly defined. Still, the opportunities in my present job to go forward are severely limited, so I cannot afford to hang around and hope.
So New Beginnings with work, and the same with my running. Lets hope they are both successful.
From a running perspective, my vacation was a BIG break. I had good intentions when I left Ireland for those shores of Americay, but like all good intentions they fell by the wayside, as the wedding and the partying took over. So it was off to the gym yesterday and a session to loosen out muscles that had been granted two weeks rest, and a run on the treadmill to see how bad things were.
The Dublin Marathon is on October 30th, less than 9 weeks away, and any thoughts I might have had of running anywhere near 3:35 can safely be put away. I will be very happy to get around the course in one piece after the "relaxed" summer I have had. I am somewhat mad at myself for allowing the good work of the early part of the year to go to seed, but I guess that at my advancing years (surely not?), I can allow myself to enjoy running and enjoy living as well, so maybe not all bad.
Anyway, the gym session was far tougher than I had thought. Two weeks off, and 5lbs on, it is going to take a week to get back to a quarter repectability. Well, I finished off the session with a 3K run on the treadmill, not exactly Marathon preparation, and I ran a hard 14:49. When I say hard, I mean it was hard to run that pace (7:57 p/mile). In May I was running sub 7 pace for this kind of distance as a speed session, yesterday it was hard work to maintain the pace period!
Still, hard work can see me back on that road, and hard work will be needed as my other New Beginning is about to take place.
Many months ago I was interviewed for a new job. At present I work in the Public Sector, for a local authority, I guess the American equivalent would be the State. Well, finaly I have been appointed to work for the National Government (The Federal Authorities in US parlance), and I will be leaving my present post at the end of September. It's a mixed feeling. I actually really enjoy the job I am presently doing, and whilst the new job will pay significantly more, my role is not yet clearly defined. Still, the opportunities in my present job to go forward are severely limited, so I cannot afford to hang around and hope.
So New Beginnings with work, and the same with my running. Lets hope they are both successful.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Tagged about my Reading Habits
OK, whilst away I was tagged by Sister Smile with regard to reading. My reading material over the years has varied from trashy novels, through a lot of educational material, and these days I am studying Law and reading far too much -
The book that changed my life: One day in the life of Ivan Denysovich, by Solzhenitsyn. A harrowing account of the Russian Gulags, that I read as a 15 year old, and made me re-think and shape my political ideals.
A book I've read more than once: Lord of the Rings by Tolkein. Well before the films were made (which I still have not seen), I read the three volume tome, and then every few years after, I picked it up and did it again. Think I read it four times overall, although the last time was more than 20 years ago.
A book I'd want with me on a desert island: Some form of Sports Almanac so I could relive all the great sporting moments in my mind as I slowly went mad (assuming I was alone)
A book that made me laugh: Around Ireland with a Fridge by Tony Hawks. Quite simply the funniest thing I have ever read (And I read this more than once as well).
A book that made me cry: Genuinely can't recall one
A book I wish I had written: The Da Vinci Code (Think of the royalties)
A book I wish had never been written: The Da Vinci Code (Then I wouldn't have had to read it).
A book I am currently reading: You can Get Arrested for that, by Rich Smith. Two studenty types head to America to break 25 of the dumbest laws still in existance. Like, did you know it is illegal in Alabama to wear a fake moustache in a church!
A book that I am meaning to read: There are so many. I am a compulsive book buyer. Our book shops always have a Buy 3, pay for 2 offer, so whenever I buy a book I want, I end up buying two more. I last counted that my bookshelves has 60 books that are awaiting my attention! I should open a library....
Just bought three books whilst in the US, that I can add to the "Intend to read" category. Ultramarathon Man by Dean Karnazes, Friday Night Lights by Bissinger, and a historical book "1776" about the obvious.
The book that changed my life: One day in the life of Ivan Denysovich, by Solzhenitsyn. A harrowing account of the Russian Gulags, that I read as a 15 year old, and made me re-think and shape my political ideals.
A book I've read more than once: Lord of the Rings by Tolkein. Well before the films were made (which I still have not seen), I read the three volume tome, and then every few years after, I picked it up and did it again. Think I read it four times overall, although the last time was more than 20 years ago.
A book I'd want with me on a desert island: Some form of Sports Almanac so I could relive all the great sporting moments in my mind as I slowly went mad (assuming I was alone)
A book that made me laugh: Around Ireland with a Fridge by Tony Hawks. Quite simply the funniest thing I have ever read (And I read this more than once as well).
A book that made me cry: Genuinely can't recall one
A book I wish I had written: The Da Vinci Code (Think of the royalties)
A book I wish had never been written: The Da Vinci Code (Then I wouldn't have had to read it).
A book I am currently reading: You can Get Arrested for that, by Rich Smith. Two studenty types head to America to break 25 of the dumbest laws still in existance. Like, did you know it is illegal in Alabama to wear a fake moustache in a church!
A book that I am meaning to read: There are so many. I am a compulsive book buyer. Our book shops always have a Buy 3, pay for 2 offer, so whenever I buy a book I want, I end up buying two more. I last counted that my bookshelves has 60 books that are awaiting my attention! I should open a library....
Just bought three books whilst in the US, that I can add to the "Intend to read" category. Ultramarathon Man by Dean Karnazes, Friday Night Lights by Bissinger, and a historical book "1776" about the obvious.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Back from Vacation
Did you miss me?
Well, I missed you, and have probably lost touch with some people in the last month, what with my PC Crash, and my two week vacation. Well, the PC isn't fixed yet, but I seem to have regained access at work, so for the moment I can get here and let you know what my vacation was like.
I have to confess to little running whilst away. I had planned to do more, but an irish-italian wedding in Rhode Island is not synominous with running, so I have a lot of work to do to get back in shape in time for Dublin in two months time.
The wedding was only part of the trip, and we had a great time, visiting Block Island, fishing in the ocean, out on my friends boat, lunching at the Skippers Dock in Stonington Harbour, and relaxing. Then it was a week in Boston, meeting up with some Cool Runners one night, visiting Fenway Park, doing a Duck Tour, walking the Freedom Trail, and generally having a great time.
We rounded off the trip by driving down from Boston to Newark, and managed to get bumped off our flight on Friday night (for $500 each! ;)) and had a day in New York on Saturday, sadly no time to let anyone know, but a few hours in Macy's and a few beers saw us home safely. Our bags had an even better holiday, as they spent another day in the US before arriving home this morning - At least it saved us having to carry them around the airport when we got home :).
I have loads of pictures from my trip, and when I get the Home Pc fixed, I will post a few shots, and bore you all to death.
Tonight I start running again - Wish me luck .......
Well, I missed you, and have probably lost touch with some people in the last month, what with my PC Crash, and my two week vacation. Well, the PC isn't fixed yet, but I seem to have regained access at work, so for the moment I can get here and let you know what my vacation was like.
I have to confess to little running whilst away. I had planned to do more, but an irish-italian wedding in Rhode Island is not synominous with running, so I have a lot of work to do to get back in shape in time for Dublin in two months time.
The wedding was only part of the trip, and we had a great time, visiting Block Island, fishing in the ocean, out on my friends boat, lunching at the Skippers Dock in Stonington Harbour, and relaxing. Then it was a week in Boston, meeting up with some Cool Runners one night, visiting Fenway Park, doing a Duck Tour, walking the Freedom Trail, and generally having a great time.
We rounded off the trip by driving down from Boston to Newark, and managed to get bumped off our flight on Friday night (for $500 each! ;)) and had a day in New York on Saturday, sadly no time to let anyone know, but a few hours in Macy's and a few beers saw us home safely. Our bags had an even better holiday, as they spent another day in the US before arriving home this morning - At least it saved us having to carry them around the airport when we got home :).
I have loads of pictures from my trip, and when I get the Home Pc fixed, I will post a few shots, and bore you all to death.
Tonight I start running again - Wish me luck .......
Friday, August 11, 2006
Communication Breakdown
Well, here we are, and almost two weeks without a post. I have had the doctor out to the PC and, sadly, the motherboard has gone. Hopefully, it won't cost too much to repair, and my clockwork PC (It's old) will be back running in a relatively short time.
In the meantime, I am heading Stateside for my summer vacation. On Sunday, at some unearthly hour, I will be on a flight to Newark, and two weeks away from PC's, work, and all those silly pressures we put ourselves under in the daily grind. Week one will be in Rhode Island, and a family wedding, that's on Wednesday next, and then, hopefully after visiting Block Island and the beaches of RI, it's up to Boston, or to be precise, Cambridge, as that's where our hotel is, and the delights of my favourite Marathon City.
Running has been less frequent than I would have liked in recent weeks as I have had some health problems, which hopefully will be sorted out when I get home. Although I am probably over-using that in my excuse list. I did managed a nice little run of around 40 minutes last night in the Park with Kieran and Jo, and we had a good chat about Jo's recent Ironman in Germany, and the imminent arrival of Kieran's first child (fingers crossed Barbara). The lack of decent running will mean that the 3:36 goal for Dublin in 11 weeks is unlikely, but I will endeavour to train whilst away, and once home, and my PC is fixed, I'll be assessing where I am in my Train to Boston 08 plan.
For now, I'm away, and to all who read my little missive, I'm missing you, and hopefully normal service will be resumed by early September.
In the meantime, I am heading Stateside for my summer vacation. On Sunday, at some unearthly hour, I will be on a flight to Newark, and two weeks away from PC's, work, and all those silly pressures we put ourselves under in the daily grind. Week one will be in Rhode Island, and a family wedding, that's on Wednesday next, and then, hopefully after visiting Block Island and the beaches of RI, it's up to Boston, or to be precise, Cambridge, as that's where our hotel is, and the delights of my favourite Marathon City.
Running has been less frequent than I would have liked in recent weeks as I have had some health problems, which hopefully will be sorted out when I get home. Although I am probably over-using that in my excuse list. I did managed a nice little run of around 40 minutes last night in the Park with Kieran and Jo, and we had a good chat about Jo's recent Ironman in Germany, and the imminent arrival of Kieran's first child (fingers crossed Barbara). The lack of decent running will mean that the 3:36 goal for Dublin in 11 weeks is unlikely, but I will endeavour to train whilst away, and once home, and my PC is fixed, I'll be assessing where I am in my Train to Boston 08 plan.
For now, I'm away, and to all who read my little missive, I'm missing you, and hopefully normal service will be resumed by early September.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Apologies to everyone
Hi gang - Really sorry about the lack of posts in the past week plus. I have had major PC problems, suffice to say my Home PC has decided to die on me, and my lack of technical knowledge means that I shall be without a Home PC for a few weeks. To add to this I can't access my Blog via work, thanks to firewalls, not hat I would breach the IT Policy ;). So, I have had to resort to borrowing somebodies PC and dive on to let you know what has been happening.
I was hoping to write up a great time I had last week. As a runner, we often take for granted the stewards who make the races we take part in, for granted. Last week at a 5K race organised at work through teh BHAA, I acted as a steward, and really enjoyed the experience. It was a 3 lap race in a local park, and it was important to keep your wits about you as runners were being lapped, and as I was on the park exit gate, where the race went to finish on the track adjoining the park. No mishaps took place, and only one person tried to be stupid and arrogant, it was his park after all, and why should he wait for the runners to pass before he walked through HIS gate - He walked his dog in HIS park, and was a right tosser, but I had the last laugh as a garda was present and heard him giving out, and had a quiet word in his ear, telling him in no uncertain terms what he thought about the eejit :).
Hopefully i can get on here at least once a week, and try and give a weekly update whilst I await either repair or a new PC. Off to Rhode Island and Boston in two weeks for my vacation, and a wedding (not mine!). Must try and take some pics around Boston and recall the Marathon route for future reference. Hopefully I can get some training done on teh Marathon Route, I'm hoping to get to Newton and run the hills, although not after 18 miles :)
So, sorry to be a pain, and hope you keep checking in to see that I am still alive. I can't access other peoples Blogs either from work, so apologies for not commenting on others. The lack of PC access is a pain, but like everything else, I'll be back soon, with plenty of catching up to do. In the meantime, have fun, and keep running.
I was hoping to write up a great time I had last week. As a runner, we often take for granted the stewards who make the races we take part in, for granted. Last week at a 5K race organised at work through teh BHAA, I acted as a steward, and really enjoyed the experience. It was a 3 lap race in a local park, and it was important to keep your wits about you as runners were being lapped, and as I was on the park exit gate, where the race went to finish on the track adjoining the park. No mishaps took place, and only one person tried to be stupid and arrogant, it was his park after all, and why should he wait for the runners to pass before he walked through HIS gate - He walked his dog in HIS park, and was a right tosser, but I had the last laugh as a garda was present and heard him giving out, and had a quiet word in his ear, telling him in no uncertain terms what he thought about the eejit :).
Hopefully i can get on here at least once a week, and try and give a weekly update whilst I await either repair or a new PC. Off to Rhode Island and Boston in two weeks for my vacation, and a wedding (not mine!). Must try and take some pics around Boston and recall the Marathon route for future reference. Hopefully I can get some training done on teh Marathon Route, I'm hoping to get to Newton and run the hills, although not after 18 miles :)
So, sorry to be a pain, and hope you keep checking in to see that I am still alive. I can't access other peoples Blogs either from work, so apologies for not commenting on others. The lack of PC access is a pain, but like everything else, I'll be back soon, with plenty of catching up to do. In the meantime, have fun, and keep running.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
We're having a Heatwave
These past few days have been very rare, and very enjoyable, in that we have been "suffering" a heatwave here in Ireland. Now, I appreciate that many who read this will be used to hot summers, with temperatures well into the 90's and breaking the 100 mark. But here in Ireland, we have street parties when it hits 60 :)... OK, maybe that's not quite true, and despite what people think we actually get pleasant summers, with average temps in the high 60's most summers.
Well these past few days have seen the 80's hit, and across the Irish Sea, England has seen temps soar into the 90's. It's not so pleasant at work, but the weekend and evenings have been glorious, and I'll enjoy it while it lasts.
It has been good for my running too. I was up at my mums in the North on Saturday and drove over to Castlewellan and the Forest Park for an exceptionally enjoyable early evening run around the Lake. It was only 3.5 miles, but you know that feeling when everything falls into place - The surrounds are briliant, your running is smooth - Well this was one of those runs, everything clicked and it was a joy to be running. Managed 23 miles last week, running 6 days out of 7, and yesterday saw me extend to 5 miles, clcoking 39:21 for the run, and this was after a timed 5K on Monday in 23:18 - all times heading in the right direction.
Took time out last night to head to the cinema. It was Superman Returns! It passed a few hours. It's not a bad film, but neither was it brilliant. Just about worth going to see, with some great special effects, but the script left a little to be desired. Nice little homages to Christopher Reeve in places, and good to see they used the John Williams score - I'd say to anyone thinking about going, yep, go - it won't blow you away, and it's exactly what you'd expect a Superman Film to be, Good V Evil, Good winning out in the end, after the usual pitfalls along the way, and Kryptonite playing it's part as ever - You'd think Lex would learn a trick or two for all his alleged brains :)
Back to running, and will hope to build from the base I'm starting to create. I know others who are training for a fall marathon will be well ahead of me in preparation, with their mileage up over 50 per week. I'll be looking at stabilising around 30, and increasing my long runs, building up over the next ten weeks, peaking at around 40 to 45 mpw - I've never been a High Mileage runner, using quality and rest to help me prepare - I'll keep you posted.
Well these past few days have seen the 80's hit, and across the Irish Sea, England has seen temps soar into the 90's. It's not so pleasant at work, but the weekend and evenings have been glorious, and I'll enjoy it while it lasts.
It has been good for my running too. I was up at my mums in the North on Saturday and drove over to Castlewellan and the Forest Park for an exceptionally enjoyable early evening run around the Lake. It was only 3.5 miles, but you know that feeling when everything falls into place - The surrounds are briliant, your running is smooth - Well this was one of those runs, everything clicked and it was a joy to be running. Managed 23 miles last week, running 6 days out of 7, and yesterday saw me extend to 5 miles, clcoking 39:21 for the run, and this was after a timed 5K on Monday in 23:18 - all times heading in the right direction.
Took time out last night to head to the cinema. It was Superman Returns! It passed a few hours. It's not a bad film, but neither was it brilliant. Just about worth going to see, with some great special effects, but the script left a little to be desired. Nice little homages to Christopher Reeve in places, and good to see they used the John Williams score - I'd say to anyone thinking about going, yep, go - it won't blow you away, and it's exactly what you'd expect a Superman Film to be, Good V Evil, Good winning out in the end, after the usual pitfalls along the way, and Kryptonite playing it's part as ever - You'd think Lex would learn a trick or two for all his alleged brains :)
Back to running, and will hope to build from the base I'm starting to create. I know others who are training for a fall marathon will be well ahead of me in preparation, with their mileage up over 50 per week. I'll be looking at stabilising around 30, and increasing my long runs, building up over the next ten weeks, peaking at around 40 to 45 mpw - I've never been a High Mileage runner, using quality and rest to help me prepare - I'll keep you posted.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Supplementary Issues
I don't know about you, but I always have a problem knowing quite what to title my scribblings. Obviously when race reporting it's easy, but normal day to day ramblings become harder to title. Anyway, this one is about me running again, and since the race at the weekend, taking some advice about ways to steer clear of the cramping.
I managed a 5K run on Monday, in around 24:14, with no side affects. The right calf was a little tight at first (despite stretching beforehand), but once past 1 km, no problem, and I actually felt a lot better during the run. Tuesday I did 4 miles on the treadmill, again without any problems and at around 7:50 pace, so fingers crossed.
To supplement my running, I have decided to take up some advice, and start taking a few supplements to help. It would be interesting to hear what others think, as I am new to taking pills, I have always tried to steer clear of anything extra, feeling I have a balanced diet etc., but I'm always open to know if what I am doing sounds OK to others who know more about these things than I do. I'm starting easy, and taking 133mg of Magnesium, with 8mg of Vitamin B6, and 99mg of Potasium. The "brand" is Solgar, so if anyone has any comments, please feel free.
Hopefully, a few weeks late, I have attached a picture of the new flooring in the lounge of our house. This was one of my excuses a few weeks back, as we were in upheaval mode. Glad to report it was all worth it, and the house feels great. Next job will be the bathroom, but that can wait till the winter, or maybe next spring.
Had been hoping to try and get a run in with Thomas this week whilst he was up in the smoke, but it looks like we will have to postpone that one until next time, although I might take a trip down to Kerry. For those that read his posts as well, it's a beautiful place to be running. Still, I'll have to concentrate around Dublin for a little while longer - Where's that Open Road?
Monday, July 10, 2006
First Race in Two Months
Seemed to have crammed in a few things this weekend. Friday night saw Dee an dmyself head to the theatre to see Dandelions, a comedy starring Pauline McGlynn and Deirdre O'Kane, along with Keith Duffy - Names that probably mean very little to readers, but if you have ever seen an Irish Comedy called Father Ted, then Pauline played Mrs Doyle the housekeeper, "Will you have a cup of Tea", Deirdre is one of Irelands top stand-up stars, and Keith Duffy used to be in a boy band. The play was very funny, very Irish, and aimed more at a female audience, but worth the trip into town.
Had to run up north on Saturday to see my mother, my normal weekend trip, but after cutting her grass, I headed back home in the afternoon and relaxed in preparation for my Rcae on Sunday.
The race was the first of the Adidas series, building up to the Dublin Marathon in October. There is a series of races, 5, 10 and a Half-Mary, all in the Phoenix Park, and all aimed at marathon preparations. It was a grey, damp, summers day, and after negotiating the traffic to park, I chatted away to a few familiar faces, although despite the wonders of text messaging, could not catch up with my training partner until after the race.
I had no high expectations, having done so little real training since Prague, and having last week cut in half with the stomach bug, so my head was saying that around 40 minutes would be OK. I ran 36 minutes earlier this season for the same distance, but things are nowhere near that level at present. The race started 30 minutes late, and along with around 2,500 others we set off. The course was relatively uneventful, and as I train in the Park I was well used to it, so knew what to expect.
First mile was 8:00 dead, and felt easy, running smoothly. Second mile flew by in 7:45, and I could easily see myself getting under 40. I knew that there was a steady climb over the second half, so feeling comfortable at this pace, the time was going to be grand. Mile 3 crossed an open stretch of the Park, and suprisingly, the wind whipped up here, but this was offset by a down hill before we turned back into the shelter of the trees, and the climb back. Mile 3 was 7:41, and all was going well. My breathing was fine, my legs were fine - oops - Speak too soon!
I don't know what it was, maybe the climb, although it was by no means steep, just a gradual climb, but somewhere in this mile, my right calf decided to tighten up with cramp! I have often suffered from cramp during a marathon, but not at Mile 4, more usually Mile 24, so it was both a worry and suprise. I had to draw to a walk, and try and stretch the cramp out, managing to keep walking, but each step was sore, and I saw the Mile 4 marker and looked down to see that the walking had cost me over a minute, as 9:10 was showing. Around 100 yards past the marker, I felt the cramp ease, as if some magic sponge had whisked the tightness away, so I started to jog again, gradually ctaching those who had passed me as I walked, and had passed the usual comments.
The cramp was cleared and although I knew I shouldn't push too hard, and my time was going to be unheralded, I picked it up, and ran home strongly, pass ing some 20 or so folk in the last 200, fairly sprinting for the line, and "running" 8:02 for the last mile, which given I had walked the first 100 plus, wasn't too bad - Overall time 40:38. Nice thing was I heard my name over the PA praising my sprint finish and gaining a spot prize for my effort - A glass vase!
Kieran was waiting for me at the finish with water in hand. He had run around 38 which he was happy with, given his own problems off late, and we walked back to teh Race HQ and took leave of the great refreshments on hand. I can't be too disappointed with my time, given how little training I have undertaken recently, but I am worried as to the cramping over such a short distance. Now it's time to knuckle down to some serious training and proper preparation for the 26.
Had to run up north on Saturday to see my mother, my normal weekend trip, but after cutting her grass, I headed back home in the afternoon and relaxed in preparation for my Rcae on Sunday.
The race was the first of the Adidas series, building up to the Dublin Marathon in October. There is a series of races, 5, 10 and a Half-Mary, all in the Phoenix Park, and all aimed at marathon preparations. It was a grey, damp, summers day, and after negotiating the traffic to park, I chatted away to a few familiar faces, although despite the wonders of text messaging, could not catch up with my training partner until after the race.
I had no high expectations, having done so little real training since Prague, and having last week cut in half with the stomach bug, so my head was saying that around 40 minutes would be OK. I ran 36 minutes earlier this season for the same distance, but things are nowhere near that level at present. The race started 30 minutes late, and along with around 2,500 others we set off. The course was relatively uneventful, and as I train in the Park I was well used to it, so knew what to expect.
First mile was 8:00 dead, and felt easy, running smoothly. Second mile flew by in 7:45, and I could easily see myself getting under 40. I knew that there was a steady climb over the second half, so feeling comfortable at this pace, the time was going to be grand. Mile 3 crossed an open stretch of the Park, and suprisingly, the wind whipped up here, but this was offset by a down hill before we turned back into the shelter of the trees, and the climb back. Mile 3 was 7:41, and all was going well. My breathing was fine, my legs were fine - oops - Speak too soon!
I don't know what it was, maybe the climb, although it was by no means steep, just a gradual climb, but somewhere in this mile, my right calf decided to tighten up with cramp! I have often suffered from cramp during a marathon, but not at Mile 4, more usually Mile 24, so it was both a worry and suprise. I had to draw to a walk, and try and stretch the cramp out, managing to keep walking, but each step was sore, and I saw the Mile 4 marker and looked down to see that the walking had cost me over a minute, as 9:10 was showing. Around 100 yards past the marker, I felt the cramp ease, as if some magic sponge had whisked the tightness away, so I started to jog again, gradually ctaching those who had passed me as I walked, and had passed the usual comments.
The cramp was cleared and although I knew I shouldn't push too hard, and my time was going to be unheralded, I picked it up, and ran home strongly, pass ing some 20 or so folk in the last 200, fairly sprinting for the line, and "running" 8:02 for the last mile, which given I had walked the first 100 plus, wasn't too bad - Overall time 40:38. Nice thing was I heard my name over the PA praising my sprint finish and gaining a spot prize for my effort - A glass vase!
Kieran was waiting for me at the finish with water in hand. He had run around 38 which he was happy with, given his own problems off late, and we walked back to teh Race HQ and took leave of the great refreshments on hand. I can't be too disappointed with my time, given how little training I have undertaken recently, but I am worried as to the cramping over such a short distance. Now it's time to knuckle down to some serious training and proper preparation for the 26.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
OK - I know I said no more excuses....
But this week has been exceptionally busy in one way or another. First, my Big PC has packed in. The one where all my pictures, my data, my records is stored. Actually, to be fair, it's not as bad as that, as it's only the optical mouse that has packed in. Trouble is, I can't work out why! I am hopeless at sorting out problems like this, but my IT Expert, Liam Og, is in Spain for the summer, so I may have to live without it for a while yet.
The good news is I still have the laptop, and access, so all is not lost, and you'll have to put up with me a while yet.
The other down side, which is truth rather than an excuse, is that I was in bed sick at the beginning of the week for three days, a stomach bug hit me. I was laid low, and as a result, my running has also been hit. Only managed to get out yesterday for a couple of miles, still feeling far from 100% , and today I made the gym and had a harder workout, just 2 miles on the treads, but then some rowing, and a session around the leg machines, so not too bad.
All this makes me wonder how I talk myself into things, such as Training for Dublin, thinking about Boston 2008 etc. So what do I go and do today? I sent an entry in for the Connemara Marathon next April. It's the one I ran this year, in the rain, feeling like "yuck", but loving everything about it. So, there you go, I'm already entered for my First Marathon of 2007, another weekend in the West of Ireland - Sometimes I wonder about myself :)
The good news is I still have the laptop, and access, so all is not lost, and you'll have to put up with me a while yet.
The other down side, which is truth rather than an excuse, is that I was in bed sick at the beginning of the week for three days, a stomach bug hit me. I was laid low, and as a result, my running has also been hit. Only managed to get out yesterday for a couple of miles, still feeling far from 100% , and today I made the gym and had a harder workout, just 2 miles on the treads, but then some rowing, and a session around the leg machines, so not too bad.
All this makes me wonder how I talk myself into things, such as Training for Dublin, thinking about Boston 2008 etc. So what do I go and do today? I sent an entry in for the Connemara Marathon next April. It's the one I ran this year, in the rain, feeling like "yuck", but loving everything about it. So, there you go, I'm already entered for my First Marathon of 2007, another weekend in the West of Ireland - Sometimes I wonder about myself :)
Thursday, June 29, 2006
I've been tagged
Well, Thomas has tagged me, so I better play along and answer the questions, if I don't I guess that hordes of wilderbeest or plagues of locusts will be set upon me from Kerry, ok, maybe not, but it's good fun anyway. Here goes.....
4 Jobs I’ve had:
Barman
Bank Official
Computer Security Administrator
Trade Union Official
4 Movies I watch over and over:
The Shawshank Redemption
The Sound of Music (and I'm not joking!)
Life of Brian
Moulin Rouge
4 Places I have lived:
St Albans, England
New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire
Banbridge, Co Down, Northern Ireland
Dublin, Ireland
4 TV shows I watch:
The West Wing
Boston Legal
Judge John Deed
Two and a Half Men
Places I’ve been on Vacation:
California
Malaysia
Poland
Mexico
4 Websites I visit every day:
Cool Running
Runners World UK
Stockport County FC
Kick
4 Favourite Foods:
Mexican
Chicken Anything
Stir-Fry with Rice
Ben & Jerry's Ice-Cream (See I can be honest!)
4 Places I'd rather be right now:
Germany watching the World Cup
Phoenix Park running well
On a beach without a care in the world
At the Lotto HQ collecting my winning millions
4 Favorite Bands/Singers:
Dixie Chicks
Neil Young
Keith Urban
Bryan Adams
Bloggers I'll tag: (but don’t feel obliged!)
Jill
Sarah
Dawn
Sister Smile
4 Jobs I’ve had:
Barman
Bank Official
Computer Security Administrator
Trade Union Official
4 Movies I watch over and over:
The Shawshank Redemption
The Sound of Music (and I'm not joking!)
Life of Brian
Moulin Rouge
4 Places I have lived:
St Albans, England
New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire
Banbridge, Co Down, Northern Ireland
Dublin, Ireland
4 TV shows I watch:
The West Wing
Boston Legal
Judge John Deed
Two and a Half Men
Places I’ve been on Vacation:
California
Malaysia
Poland
Mexico
4 Websites I visit every day:
Cool Running
Runners World UK
Stockport County FC
Kick
4 Favourite Foods:
Mexican
Chicken Anything
Stir-Fry with Rice
Ben & Jerry's Ice-Cream (See I can be honest!)
4 Places I'd rather be right now:
Germany watching the World Cup
Phoenix Park running well
On a beach without a care in the world
At the Lotto HQ collecting my winning millions
4 Favorite Bands/Singers:
Dixie Chicks
Neil Young
Keith Urban
Bryan Adams
Bloggers I'll tag: (but don’t feel obliged!)
Jill
Sarah
Dawn
Sister Smile
A New Arrival
As followers of my ramblings will know, I have been a little absent in recent weeks with one thing or another. Well, the house is finished, and I have a couple fo pictures to post of the lovely floor we have restored, so that excuse has gone. The World Cup is drawing to it's conclusion, with only 8 teams left, and seven matches to watch ;), so another one almost gone, but the best one, excuse that is, finally was lost last night, when Aaron Brian Treacy entered this world at 9:21 pm, the beautiful son of my step-daughter, Lynn, and her partner Dave.
Hopefully, if I have worked this picture lark out correctly, his little face should be beaming from the top of this post. He arrived weighing 7 lbs and 10 oz, and mother and son (and the dad aswell) are doing fine, and will be home on Saturday. I guess that makes me a sort of Grandad, a step one mind, but one that will be equally as loving as I will be when my two offspring decide to start a family of their own.
Now it's back to the running, and hopefully, no more excuses.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Knocking the rust off
You know when something gets old as the rust starts to appear around the edges. Then gradually the rust spreads, until eventually it falls apart. How do you halt the spread, you can buy sprays, you can chip away, but unless you are very careful, the rust has overtaken your hard work and things do fall apart.
Well, my running has become rusty since Prague. I took a rest to recover, and the rust started to appear. I had a few runs, just light jogs really, but the rust had started to take over, and until about 10 days ago, I was in danger of falling apart. So, how do I stop the spread? The weight had returned, notably around that special male area of "Dummy Tummy", and I felt unhealthy. There are no sprays to clear this bodywork, just the appliance of hard work.
So last week, I recommenced training, rather than simply running. It was hard. Those first few runs did little to inspire confidence, had the rust taken hold? But, unlike the old banger parked on the drive, this old runner knocked a few spots away, and now I feel ready to re-apply myself to my goals. There is still some lingering around the edges, but another few days and I can start to apply the wax to the bodywork. By the end of next month I'll be shining new again.
You may not be able to turn back the path of time, but you can hold it in check a little - It just gets harder as we get older.
P.S. OK, that's Ecuador fallen by the wayside, so it's on to cheer Portugal next Saturday, and Spain tonight -
Well, my running has become rusty since Prague. I took a rest to recover, and the rust started to appear. I had a few runs, just light jogs really, but the rust had started to take over, and until about 10 days ago, I was in danger of falling apart. So, how do I stop the spread? The weight had returned, notably around that special male area of "Dummy Tummy", and I felt unhealthy. There are no sprays to clear this bodywork, just the appliance of hard work.
So last week, I recommenced training, rather than simply running. It was hard. Those first few runs did little to inspire confidence, had the rust taken hold? But, unlike the old banger parked on the drive, this old runner knocked a few spots away, and now I feel ready to re-apply myself to my goals. There is still some lingering around the edges, but another few days and I can start to apply the wax to the bodywork. By the end of next month I'll be shining new again.
You may not be able to turn back the path of time, but you can hold it in check a little - It just gets harder as we get older.
P.S. OK, that's Ecuador fallen by the wayside, so it's on to cheer Portugal next Saturday, and Spain tonight -
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Slow and Steady
Like most things when you have been away for a while, it takes a little time to get back into the swing of things. Ring-rust they call it in boxing parlance. It's the same with running, although, as I said before, I am suprised how unfit I have become in such a short space of time.
But the road to recovery and getting back to form is mapped out in front of me, and now that things are settling back down at home, I can get back into the swing of running. Slowly and steadily, no need to panic, I still have 18 weeks to prepare for my Dublin run. On Thursday night I managed an easy 4 miler with Kieran, my training partner for Connemara, and yesterday I had a gym session with a 3 mile dreadmill run at a shade under 8 minute pace, feeling comfortable again, far better than Wednesday's thrash.
I have to head up North to visit my mum this weekend, so I'll ease off today and not run, but will get an easy run tomorrow up in Banbridge, before heading home to watch the World Cup game between Ecuador and England - How do you say "Come on Ecuador" en espanol?
I'll take some pictures of the new flooring etc., so you can see what we now enjoy.
But the road to recovery and getting back to form is mapped out in front of me, and now that things are settling back down at home, I can get back into the swing of running. Slowly and steadily, no need to panic, I still have 18 weeks to prepare for my Dublin run. On Thursday night I managed an easy 4 miler with Kieran, my training partner for Connemara, and yesterday I had a gym session with a 3 mile dreadmill run at a shade under 8 minute pace, feeling comfortable again, far better than Wednesday's thrash.
I have to head up North to visit my mum this weekend, so I'll ease off today and not run, but will get an easy run tomorrow up in Banbridge, before heading home to watch the World Cup game between Ecuador and England - How do you say "Come on Ecuador" en espanol?
I'll take some pictures of the new flooring etc., so you can see what we now enjoy.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
When you don't have Computer Access...
It makes it very hard to keep your Blog updated.
For those of you who have logged on hoping to find some words of wisdom from me, I apologise (like that's ever going to happen). I think I mentioned that a few months ago we had a chimney fire and as a result had to have some work done on repairing the chimney breast and consequentially work done inside the house. Well, we took the opportunity to get our floor in the living room changed from a carpeted one, to exposing the wooden boards, sanding them down, varnishing them, and changing the whole room style - along with total redecoration. The PC lived in the living room in days gone by, but it would not be doing once the work was completed.
Needless to say the work took longer than expected, and my re-location to a bedroom turned into an office/study meant the PC was out of touch, and hence no updates to my Blog for a whole week - I felt isolated. At work, the firewall excludes "Blogspot" addresses, and whilst I could access certain sites, such as Coolrunning and Runners World, I was unable to get in touch and even tell folk why I was away.
Anyhow - I'm back now. What's been happening? I am still re-building slowly, just short easy runs to report, and my main worry is my weight, which has ballooned up towards the 195 mark, a long way away from the 175 I need to be to achieve my goals. That will be worked upon.
The World Cup is starting to weed out the men from the boys, and so far Argentina and Spain are my pick of the bunch. Today sees crunch time for the US and Australia, and maybe we'll see the Brazilian team come out of their shell and perform for us. England have managed to stumble through to the second round, but with few striking options available to them, they will struggle in the knock-out stages. On a more positive note, the Fixture List for Stockport County games for next season are out today, so maybe I can plan a trip over to watch them and take in the Robin Hood Half-Marathon in September, ideal warm-up for Dublin.
For those of you who have logged on hoping to find some words of wisdom from me, I apologise (like that's ever going to happen). I think I mentioned that a few months ago we had a chimney fire and as a result had to have some work done on repairing the chimney breast and consequentially work done inside the house. Well, we took the opportunity to get our floor in the living room changed from a carpeted one, to exposing the wooden boards, sanding them down, varnishing them, and changing the whole room style - along with total redecoration. The PC lived in the living room in days gone by, but it would not be doing once the work was completed.
Needless to say the work took longer than expected, and my re-location to a bedroom turned into an office/study meant the PC was out of touch, and hence no updates to my Blog for a whole week - I felt isolated. At work, the firewall excludes "Blogspot" addresses, and whilst I could access certain sites, such as Coolrunning and Runners World, I was unable to get in touch and even tell folk why I was away.
Anyhow - I'm back now. What's been happening? I am still re-building slowly, just short easy runs to report, and my main worry is my weight, which has ballooned up towards the 195 mark, a long way away from the 175 I need to be to achieve my goals. That will be worked upon.
The World Cup is starting to weed out the men from the boys, and so far Argentina and Spain are my pick of the bunch. Today sees crunch time for the US and Australia, and maybe we'll see the Brazilian team come out of their shell and perform for us. England have managed to stumble through to the second round, but with few striking options available to them, they will struggle in the knock-out stages. On a more positive note, the Fixture List for Stockport County games for next season are out today, so maybe I can plan a trip over to watch them and take in the Robin Hood Half-Marathon in September, ideal warm-up for Dublin.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
This will be harder than I thought
OK - Well, it's Day three of my "Train to Boston" goal, and this could be tough, I have just realised that I am not getting any younger :). Last night my programmes said 4 Miles, so off I went and 4 miles later I was back home feeling awful. A week away from running, just one week, has set me back 6! I felt jaded, my legs were like lead, and my mental state to run was seriously challenged.
All the time whilst I was running I was thinking of what will be, and how I can reach my goal. I maintained an argument with myself as to how I can do this, how I can balance my life with my running and achieve my goal. I was delighted to have read a new Blog fom an old friend, Jill over in Nashville, who is joining me on the Boston Train, and that kept me going, and won the argument as to why I was out there. Old friends, and new friends, all connected with running and a large part of the reason I run, the friendships made and the journeys made.
It will get easier again, the excess weight, added in the past month since Prague, will fall off. In a few short weeks I will read this and wonder why I wrote it - For now, it's grit the teeth and work hard - I never said it would be easy.
PS - World Cup Update. So far, having seen 28 of the 32 teams in action, I have been disappointed. Brazil won, but were a shadow of their former selves, France were appalling, England won but need to improve to stand a hope. The best sides so far have been the Czechs, the Italians (in fits and starts), and the host nation Germany. Last four sides play their opening games today, Spain versus Ukraine should be an interesting match up, and more will be revealed as the tournament starts to get interesting as the second phase of matches commences.
All the time whilst I was running I was thinking of what will be, and how I can reach my goal. I maintained an argument with myself as to how I can do this, how I can balance my life with my running and achieve my goal. I was delighted to have read a new Blog fom an old friend, Jill over in Nashville, who is joining me on the Boston Train, and that kept me going, and won the argument as to why I was out there. Old friends, and new friends, all connected with running and a large part of the reason I run, the friendships made and the journeys made.
It will get easier again, the excess weight, added in the past month since Prague, will fall off. In a few short weeks I will read this and wonder why I wrote it - For now, it's grit the teeth and work hard - I never said it would be easy.
PS - World Cup Update. So far, having seen 28 of the 32 teams in action, I have been disappointed. Brazil won, but were a shadow of their former selves, France were appalling, England won but need to improve to stand a hope. The best sides so far have been the Czechs, the Italians (in fits and starts), and the host nation Germany. Last four sides play their opening games today, Spain versus Ukraine should be an interesting match up, and more will be revealed as the tournament starts to get interesting as the second phase of matches commences.
Monday, June 12, 2006
The Journey to Boston starts today
OK - I've had my break from running, taken my rest and recovery time, enjoyed a few beers in that time, but today, Monday June 12th, sees the start of the journey to see me line up in Hopkinton in April 2008. It seems a long way ahead, but I've noticed how time has a habit of flying along when you are training for a Marathon. Just as you think you are getting into reasonable shape, you check and see that your Marathon is only 7 weeks away!
Well, for me, the first step will be Dublin in October this year, exactly 20 weeks away from today. I have some hard work to do, no doubt I will have set backs along the way, but I am determined to be there on Patriot's Day 2008, I hope you can come along for the ride.
NB - So the World Cup is up and running. Eight games gone, only 56 left to see who will be crowned Champion. Only half the teams have played so far, and from what I have seen I don't think the eventual champions have laced up their boots yet - And no, I don't mean the USA - It's just like watching Brazil :)
Well, for me, the first step will be Dublin in October this year, exactly 20 weeks away from today. I have some hard work to do, no doubt I will have set backs along the way, but I am determined to be there on Patriot's Day 2008, I hope you can come along for the ride.
NB - So the World Cup is up and running. Eight games gone, only 56 left to see who will be crowned Champion. Only half the teams have played so far, and from what I have seen I don't think the eventual champions have laced up their boots yet - And no, I don't mean the USA - It's just like watching Brazil :)
Friday, June 09, 2006
THE World Cup starts today!
As I'm sure everyone is aware, including those of you reading this in the US, the Football World Cup starts today in Germany. Now, I deliberately used the word football here, becasue that's what it is. It's not soccer, it's FOOTBALL! - OK, that one out of the way.
Every 4 years, as a football fan, I look forward to the staging of the World Cup, and 4 weeks of back to back games. the 2006 event kicks off tonight with Germany v Costa Rica, and I will be glued to the TV at 5 pm (Irish time) as the ball gets rolling. I do have a quandry this year as to who to support. We failed to qualify this time, and so th epassion will not be in my support. It stiicks in the throat to support England ;), but as a Liverpool fan I will be cheering on their players, and with 4 Liverpool players in the England squad, I'll certainly be cheering the lads on. Spain have three "Scousers" in their squad, so they will get a cheer as well, and even Australia will get an eye from me.
Irrespective of who I will be cheering to victory, I am looking forward to seeing the best players take the stage, and despite Brazil being favourites, this year could see anyone of 5 or 6 teams vying for the title. Argentina are a good side, Italy will be there or there abouts. The French will be disciplined, and despite Germany being out of sorts, they are at home and will be expected to do well. England could do well, and maybe one of the African quintent will spring a suprise. Can the USA shock everyone and win a match?
All will be revealed over the next few weeks - I hope I can managed to get some running done between matches as well, my rest period is almost over, and Monday sees me working hard to achieve my own goals, and my attempts to qualify for my own World Cup - BOSTON!
Every 4 years, as a football fan, I look forward to the staging of the World Cup, and 4 weeks of back to back games. the 2006 event kicks off tonight with Germany v Costa Rica, and I will be glued to the TV at 5 pm (Irish time) as the ball gets rolling. I do have a quandry this year as to who to support. We failed to qualify this time, and so th epassion will not be in my support. It stiicks in the throat to support England ;), but as a Liverpool fan I will be cheering on their players, and with 4 Liverpool players in the England squad, I'll certainly be cheering the lads on. Spain have three "Scousers" in their squad, so they will get a cheer as well, and even Australia will get an eye from me.
Irrespective of who I will be cheering to victory, I am looking forward to seeing the best players take the stage, and despite Brazil being favourites, this year could see anyone of 5 or 6 teams vying for the title. Argentina are a good side, Italy will be there or there abouts. The French will be disciplined, and despite Germany being out of sorts, they are at home and will be expected to do well. England could do well, and maybe one of the African quintent will spring a suprise. Can the USA shock everyone and win a match?
All will be revealed over the next few weeks - I hope I can managed to get some running done between matches as well, my rest period is almost over, and Monday sees me working hard to achieve my own goals, and my attempts to qualify for my own World Cup - BOSTON!
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Apologies to one and all
Still being relatively new to this blogging game, I have to apologise to friends and new readers for the gaps between posts in the past couple of weeks. Things have been a little hectic since my trip to Prague, and I haven't had much time to get on the PC. Added to that, the past weekend, the weather has taken a turn for the sublime, with temperatures well up into the 70's, a beautiful sun, and a garden begging for attention. So, I succumbed (is that how you spell it?) -
Before my hiatus from filling you in with the details of my life, I had been having some thoughts about potential US Presidential Candidates from the Democrats perspective. This was fuelled by the re-emergence of Al Gore into the public eye. I am a keen sophologist, and follow American politics closely (well as closely as someone from 3000 miles might), and thought that Hilary was a shoe in for the nomination. Now I know that she has her haters as well as her lovers, and I was wondering what my American readers take on this is. Irrepsective of your own leanings, would Hilary make a good candidate, or are many democrats looking for an ABH candidate (Anyone But Hilary), with Al Gore's re-birth seen as a God Send. I wonder?????
Back to running, and my Dublin build up officially starts next Monday, a 20 week programme, and I will get back to that later in the week. Just in from an easy 3 mile run just to turn the legs over, and now back to that garden :)
Before my hiatus from filling you in with the details of my life, I had been having some thoughts about potential US Presidential Candidates from the Democrats perspective. This was fuelled by the re-emergence of Al Gore into the public eye. I am a keen sophologist, and follow American politics closely (well as closely as someone from 3000 miles might), and thought that Hilary was a shoe in for the nomination. Now I know that she has her haters as well as her lovers, and I was wondering what my American readers take on this is. Irrepsective of your own leanings, would Hilary make a good candidate, or are many democrats looking for an ABH candidate (Anyone But Hilary), with Al Gore's re-birth seen as a God Send. I wonder?????
Back to running, and my Dublin build up officially starts next Monday, a 20 week programme, and I will get back to that later in the week. Just in from an easy 3 mile run just to turn the legs over, and now back to that garden :)
Friday, June 02, 2006
Flaming June - Alright!
Well, June in Ireland has got off to a wonderful start. Temperatures were well up yesterday, and things look good for this weekend, a holiday weekend over here, so no excuse for me not getting out and running.
Thursday night saw me meeting up with Kieran in the Phoeniz Park for a run, and we were joined by Jo, who I have been chatting with on the UK Runners World site. She's doing her first Ironman in July, in Frankfurt, and joined us for the run. It was one of those evenings when everything combined to make for a pleasant run. The weather was beautiful, we ran off-road, the deer in the Park are in season (mating that is, not hunting), and the craic was mighty as we ran along, picking up the pace as we passed a few miles. I love working the hills in the Park, and tested myself a couple fo times, finishing our 7 miles strongly, anbd feeling great - Ah!, the beauty of running free......
Aside from running, life has been getting back to normal after my vacation. Work piled up on my desk during my absence, so plenty to do there. My mum has gone into a respite care home for a couple of weeks, and is finally starting to think that living alone at 92 might not be for the best. My daughter is over from England, staying with her University based brother, and on Sunday he flies off to Spain for the summer to work, and she goes back to her studies in Sheffield. As I say, life goes on......
Thursday night saw me meeting up with Kieran in the Phoeniz Park for a run, and we were joined by Jo, who I have been chatting with on the UK Runners World site. She's doing her first Ironman in July, in Frankfurt, and joined us for the run. It was one of those evenings when everything combined to make for a pleasant run. The weather was beautiful, we ran off-road, the deer in the Park are in season (mating that is, not hunting), and the craic was mighty as we ran along, picking up the pace as we passed a few miles. I love working the hills in the Park, and tested myself a couple fo times, finishing our 7 miles strongly, anbd feeling great - Ah!, the beauty of running free......
Aside from running, life has been getting back to normal after my vacation. Work piled up on my desk during my absence, so plenty to do there. My mum has gone into a respite care home for a couple of weeks, and is finally starting to think that living alone at 92 might not be for the best. My daughter is over from England, staying with her University based brother, and on Sunday he flies off to Spain for the summer to work, and she goes back to her studies in Sheffield. As I say, life goes on......
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
I'm Back!
Yes, after a week's haitus in Sunny Spain I am back and looking forward to sharing my thoughts as the summer months arrive and running in Ireland see's some of that sun on my back. The vacation went OK, nothing spectacular, lazy days on the Mediterranean, lying by the pool, and eating and drinking a little too much in the evenings, but then again, that's what you are supposed to do, so can't complain.
Even managed to get in a couple of small runs along the coastal path. Only around three miles each time, but pleasant enough to tick me over. Now I'm home, and a few pounds heavier, the real work starts to get into shape for an attempt at a Boston Qualifier in Dublin at the end of October. At the moment it seems such a long way off, but time has a habit of flying when you're Marathon Training, so the hard work has to start immeadiately, so Monday lunch I was in the gym and shook away a few cobwebs and ran 5K in 23:50 to start the process.
Have a few rambling thoughts on non-running related topics that I'll share over the next few days, but for now, it's good to be home.
Even managed to get in a couple of small runs along the coastal path. Only around three miles each time, but pleasant enough to tick me over. Now I'm home, and a few pounds heavier, the real work starts to get into shape for an attempt at a Boston Qualifier in Dublin at the end of October. At the moment it seems such a long way off, but time has a habit of flying when you're Marathon Training, so the hard work has to start immeadiately, so Monday lunch I was in the gym and shook away a few cobwebs and ran 5K in 23:50 to start the process.
Have a few rambling thoughts on non-running related topics that I'll share over the next few days, but for now, it's good to be home.
Friday, May 19, 2006
I'll be absent for a week or so!
Will you miss me? That could be one of those stupid questions that I'm only asking myself as nobody actually sees it :) -
Anyway, I have recovered well from Prague, been exceptionally busy at work, not run at all, just relaxed in the evenings, and prepared for a short vacation, starting tomorrow. I know, I only was away last weekend, but that was Running - This is Vacation Time - :) - This time tomorrow we will be sat on a plane to Malaga in Espana, and a week in the sun. It's going to be a lazy week, lying by the pool, catching up on that cheap novel I've had lying around for a few months, getting a tan which will hopefully last all summer, and re-charging the batteries.
Hope everyone who does pop by has a great week, may your running be productive and your life full of smiles :) - Here's another look at Prague, and an interesting photo of a "finisher" - And no, it's not me needing a lift!
See you in a week!
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Prague - A Czech Spring Marathon
After my disappointment with having to drop out of the Belfast Marathon at the beginning of the month, my desire to run in Prague had switched from a gentle run through this Central European Capital, to one in which I had ambitions of breaking the “magic” 4 hour barrier. My training had been going well since Connemara in March, and with the exception of the glitch around Belfast, I had been running injury free. The only problem I could foresee was that I had put back a few of the pounds I had shed over the winter training, and that I felt “heavy” – I had climbed back to around 189 lbs, well above my fighting weight.
We flew out to Prague on the Friday, arriving to beautiful sunshine, and a city that thrives on tourists. Abundant with picturesque buildings, everywhere you look, every side-street you go down, there seems to be another hidden gem of a church or 16th century mural depicting a religious scene, with a gaggle of camera shod tourists having the meaning of the architecture explained. Prague is a city steeped in history, some bloodier than others, and it would be fair to say that following the collapse of communism, they have embraced capitalism and are hungry for the tourist dollar, or in our case, euro!
We sat out on the Old Town Square, enjoying a beer in the evening sun, watching the world go by, and relaxing, before heading to dinner and an early night. Saturday morning saw me up and out for a light jog. Now, with some 10,000 people involved with the Marathon weekend, with an 8K and a 4K fun run in addition to the Marathon, I would have expected to see others out for a morning workout, maybe I ran in the wrong places, but my 15 minute sojourn around Wenceslas Square simply saw me receiving strange stares from a population heading to work, or maybe they were late night revellers returning to their hotels, but I saw no other runners – We did have the right weekend?
When we booked the trip, it had not been top of my agenda to notice that the FA Cup Final (Soccer) was to be played this weekend. This event only triggered on my radar when the team I follow, Liverpool FC, made it through to the final. A dilemma… I like to watch a Big Match with others. Usually in a bar, and enjoying a pint as I cheer, boo, go through all the emotions that are invoked in a major sporting event. But I had a race to run on Sunday, could I have a couple of beers and still run OK. – Well, I met up with a few other runners who were like minded in their desire to watch the match, and so in mid-afternoon, Steve, Andy and a Canadian-Italian, Vincenzo, along with Dee and myself were esconsed in Rocky O’Reilly’s Irish Bar to watch one of the Best Cup Finals in living memory. Suffice to say Liverpool won, and despite a couple of beers, and a plate of nacho’s, we were all in good spirit and ready to face the cobbles of Prague on the following morning. Maybe we would have been better taking a tip from our Canadian friend and enjoyed a baked potato or rice, but it was pasta we sought, and then an early night, so we retired early, looking forward to the race.
Just realised that you have scrolled through 4 paragraphs of my ramblings and hardly a word about running, but Sunday morning came, and at 8 we were in the Old Town Square trying to see where the Rain that had been forecast may be coming from. Instead we were “blessed” with sunshine, and whilst poncho’s were being handed out, it was warm enough for me to be hanging around in my running singlet, and looking forward to the race. Steve, Andy and myself were all looking for similar times, so we had arranged to run together, and lined up between the 3:30 and 4 hour pace teams. There were around 3000 running the full marathon, and at just after 9 the race was off, and we wound our way through the Old Town Square and were off.
We had been warned about the course. In some cases quite negatively. There were to be cobbles and tram lines, and we had been told that these were dangerous etc… Well, like any race, if you watch where you are putting your feet you should be OK, and I have to say that whilst they were there as we ran in the Old Town, they never caused me a problem at all – it may have been different if it had rained and the cobbles had been slippy, but hey were nowhere near the problems we had feared.
We were trying to run a reasonable pace, and with the fact that Europe is metric this was to be a 42.195 kilometre race, rather than a 26.2 mile race, if you understand what I mean. We were all used to running Mile pace, and with 26 clicks of the watch to indicate our progress. No mile markers, but 42 K markers seems more daunting, somehow it sounds further, but we found an advantage in that the markers came around a lot quicker, especially in the latter stages. I had worked out a 5Km split pace, and we were looking for 27:30 for the 8 spilts, and then take the last 2195 metres in our strides – at least that was the idea.
The first few kilometres is run through the Old and picturesque part of town, crossing the famous Charles Bridge very early on. Despite the crowds we were running steadily and the first 5K came upon us before we knew it, and we had run 27:50 from the start mat (it was a chipped race), and were enjoying the craic as we ran. Crowd support thinned out as soon as we had left the main square. A few interested bystanders, others perplexed at these be-shorted visitors running around en masse. It would be fair to say that the Praguvians were not as savvy regarding their Marathon as New Yorkers or Londoners, but those that were there clapped politely as we ran along, and with bands interspersed along the course it wasn’t too bad. No sheep or cows as in Connemara to moo or baa us along!
Even at this early stage of the race I could feel the sun on my body as I ran along. Each water station was treated with respect and fluid taken on, and the 10K marker came up in 54:29, a 26:39 second split. We were running easily, the pace was steady, and whilst we may have been picking it up slightly, it wasn’t noticeable at this stage. I kept doing my body check to see if the niggles were coming back to haunt me, but everything felt great and as we came back into the city at around 12K, things were looking good. Dee was able to catch us at this point, shouting out and managing to get a picture as we ran along – life was good.
After the first 1/3 of the race, the course heads out of town, and into the first of the “boring” bits. Now, every marathon, in order to make up the miles and not simply have us making numerous laps of a city centre (a logistical nightmare I would suggest), has to have some boring bits. Here was our first ordeal. Up to 15K, and a 25:58 split, well on target for out sub 4 at this stage, and it was now that the heat, probably in the 70’s by now (and only 10:30 in the morning), started to tell a little with me. I could see that my younger running colleagues were running strongly, so at some point before the 20K mark I told them I was going to drop back a little, or more realistically allow them to go on and I would ease back to the 27:30 pace I was seeking. They reluctantly let me slip back, and I must have been doing something right as my split for that 5 was exactly 27:30!
The turnaround took place just before the Half-Marathon point, and I saw Steve and Andy as they returned. They were only around 20 seconds ahead of me at that point, a gap that would widen over the second half. According to the official timing I reached half-way at 1:54:37, still within my target range of breaking 4, a 2:05 second half would bring me in. But by now I was feeling that heat sufficiently to make me walk through each water station, ensuring I was hydrating, swallowing each cup of water and energy drink. It is so easy when running along to slop water into your mouth and not actually take much in, for me, in this weather, I knew I needed to take the fluid on-board, and walking for 20 seconds or so to ensure sufficient went down was a small price to pay.
The run back into the city was non-descript and at around 23K we crossed the river again, and then we had the really boring bit! On the maps, and by descriptions we had heard, this was to be the challenge. Out and back along a dual-carriageway for 7K up, and 7K back. As we went onto this stretch, it was hard seeing the 38K marker on the other side of the road, and knowing that I had to run up and back – Very tempting to cross over the carriageway and cheat at this point – I wonder if some did? (They would be excluded as there was a check-mat at 33K). 25K was reached in 28:16 and whilst I was feeling mildly light-headed I was trying to do some calculations as to what was needed to bring me home under 4 hours.
At this point I realised that 3 x 30 minute 5K’s and a strong finish would still have me home under target, and that was my focus for each kilometre along this empty concrete stretch along the river. 6 minutes per kilometre, easy, a gentle run. It was getting harder, but I can still run that pace can’t I? The other runners around were all non-english speaking, so little encouragement was to be had from those around, and no spectators at this point, and 30K came up with a 30:25 split – OK, not too bad, only just outside my time plan now, I could still do it – Only 12 K left to go, keep on target, concentrate……
Now, after the race, Vincenzo, my Canadian-Italian friend complained about the wind on this stretch. I have to confess I cannot recall a breath of a breeze anywhere along this highway, and as I approached the turnaround I was buzzed to see Andy and Steve still running together, although by now they had gained a few minutes on me, but they looked strong and well able to break that 4 barrier. Turned around it was heading for home, but my quads and other leg muscles were starting to tell me that they were getting tired as well, and the heat was still prevalent as well. Each water station walk was harder to re-start from, and 35K saw a 33:00 split – Damn! 4 hours was out of the question now, I was fading, or could I run sub 6 for the last 7 K, would that bring me home still within 4? Now, I pride myself on my abilities with mental arithmetic, but by now I was struggling with 2+2, and I was adjusting my time to anywhere from 4 to 4:15, still trying to think straight, and looking ahead to see where the bridge for home was to be.
Each K post was getting further apart, and I was relieved that they were not Mile Markers as at least they came around. At the 38K post we veered away from those still heading out along the highway, they were still at 23K, I didn’t envy them at all. I was thinking – Only 5K to go – no! - less – 4195 meters, counting my strides, 79, 80, 81…. That’s the 195 gone, only 4000 left, ten laps of a track, easy running, I could do this, 4:15 was going to be broken, could I manage under 4:10, of course I could – There’s the 39 mark, oh no, 7 minutes plus for that kilometre, I can walk it that fast, dig in………..
The last water stop was ahead, then the 40K mark, and the bridge back towards the old town again and the spectacular finish in the Old Town Square, under the Old Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock. Dee would be waiting, Steve and Andy hopefully had finished – summon up one last bit of strength and drag yourself home, anyone can run 2 kilometres. Here it was I got a boost from three elderly Czech ladies, clapping along and encouraging me with cries of “Hop, Hop, Hop” – I trust that this was encouragement to run faster in Czech, rather than some attempt to have a laugh at my expense and get me hoping all the way home – They raised my spirits and as we crossed the river and headed for home, it was 35:22 for that last 5K, and I knew I could break 4:10.
Disaster nearly struck as I came off the bridge and turned left and the last kilometre along the river. Pedestrians were crossing the road between runners, but for some reason this idiot decided that he had the right of way and that some Irish inconvenience to his sight-seeing wasn’t going to stop him, and he stepped out directly in front of me. At this stage in a marathon, it is hard to make a sudden swerve, but easy to make a sudden swear! I yelled some expletive, just managed to avoid a direct hit, but I have to confess that my right fist did make an involuntary swipe at his back-pack and a finger was extended to express universal feelings to him. If he had been aggressive and tried to chase me, maybe I would have broke that 4 hours after all, but looking back now, I doubt he could have run for 10 seconds without falling over – Oh well, it takes all sorts.
As you read the above, so it passed the time for me as well – took my mind off my mathematics and thoughts of times, lucky not to have had a major accident and be scraped off the side-walk! 41K, wow, less distance than 3 laps of a track to go, I was nearly home. I turned the corner, the final long straight – The road lined with fences and banners indicating the sponsors, and finally a swell of a crowd, clapping, cheering, welcoming the runners home, a glance at my watch – In my mind I needed 80 seconds for that last 195 metres, where was the 42 mark – I could see it ahead, a glance at my watch – I could make it under 4:08 – A cry of YES! Erupted from my mouth, repeated three or four times, each one louder, and the crowd started to shout YES back, I dug in, passed fellow strugglers, summoning up that last ounce of strength in my tired limbs and “sprinted” for the line. I’d love to see a video of this “sprint” as it would probably more resemble a cart-horse plodding along, but it felt like a sprint, but I felt great, ecstatic, I crossed the line – 4:07:57 – A triumph where disaster could have been. 13 minutes faster than Connemara, that’s 30 seconds a mile better, or is that 20 seconds a kilometre, oh heck – I still can’t work that one out – who cares – I’m finished.
As soon as I had crossed the line I saw Dee, camera in hand, and she snapped me in my happy state – Smiling, no longer in pain, but I did want some water, and my medal – Makes it all worthwhile…… And most of all a kiss from my girl who was there for me at the end, now that really makes it worthwhile!
It was a little chaotic around the finish area. The surreal sight of tour guides still trying to explain the workings of the Astronomical Clock to oblivious visitors, more interested in the runners completing their task. I found the lads at our pre-arranged spot. Andy had managed a great run well inside the 4 hours, and Steve had suffered over the last few K, and just missed out on breaking 4, but set a PR and was happy. The race was over, we had all got around, were all happy, and it was time to look forward to a few Czech beers, after a shower at least! We enjoyed a meal, a few beers
No tales from Prague could be complete without mention of the local beer. Away from the main tourist traps, you can get some of the best beer in the world for 28Kr, which works out at around €1 per pint, or $1:25, or only 65 pence sterling! – Heard from Steve that he managed to find a pint for 15Kr – So, if you like a beer, and REAL Budweiser (not that lousy watery brew that stole the name in the US) – Prague is worth a visit. Not to mention that is is a beautiful city, and that they have a great Marathon to boot.
Sadly, all good trips have to come to an end, and after a day on Monday sight-seeing and relaxing in the Spring Sun – Sun I welcomed on Monday far more than on Sunday, it was home to Dublin, and thoughts of where to go from here in my running. Dublin Marathon in October will be next, with many a stepping stone in-between. A week back in the sun, this time of Spain, beckons from Saturday. My runners will be in my bag, but only for gentle jogs along the shore – Relax and unwind, ready to face the summer on the roads of Ireland as I prepare for my next race, looking back and reflecting on a great time in Prague, and despite failing to break 4 hours, learning a lot and enjoying a new M45 Personal Best -
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Prague - The Short version
Morning - And home at last after the long weekend in Prague. I'll be brief here as I have to get off to work and only have a few minutes, but I do promise a full account later. The bottom line was that it was a lovely city, the course was great by my standards, with a few exceptions, but nothing major, met some great folk on our travels, and I ran a decent marathon, finishing in 4:07:57. Mildly disappointing as I had hoped to break 4 hours, but it was very warm and I have no complaints, in fact I am very pleased with the time, an improvement of some 13 minutes on Connemara. Full report to follow, and a BIG thanks to those who have supported me in this - much appreciated.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Last Run to Prague
Tonight, Thursday, in unusually warm May weather, I took a last run down to Phoenix Park, meeting up with my Training Partner Kieran, and we took a leisurely 6.75 mile run around the inside perimeter at around 8:30 pace, my marathon hope pace on Sunday.
I'll be away from a PC until Tuesday, so apologies for those awaiting news with baited breath, but just in case they post the results before I get home, my race number is 3848. Keep your fingers crossed, and all being well, I'll have an interesting race report to produce upon my return.
Looking forward to the Cheap Beer after the race, and the climb to the top of St Vitus's Cathedral on Monday morning :)
I'll be away from a PC until Tuesday, so apologies for those awaiting news with baited breath, but just in case they post the results before I get home, my race number is 3848. Keep your fingers crossed, and all being well, I'll have an interesting race report to produce upon my return.
Looking forward to the Cheap Beer after the race, and the climb to the top of St Vitus's Cathedral on Monday morning :)
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Government Services 5 Miler - Dunboyne
In only 4 days time Iwill be lining up on the streets of the Czech Republic for another crack at 26 miles. Today I am sat at my office trying to think of witty comments to post, both here, and in response to other fave blogs that I read. Last night, I travelled a few miles out of town to run a BHAA organised race in Dunboyne, County Meath. It was a 5 Mile race, and as this was my first Business Houses Race of the season, I felt I couldn't "bag" this one, despite it being so close to Prague.
It was an 8pm start and with around 200 plus runners, the car park was over filled even by the time I got there at 7, but I managed to find a parking space nearby, and registered and warmed up, whilst catching up with a few old friends. The BHAA races are organised by the Businees's around Dublin, and open to all-comers. They are low-key but well organised, and relatively competitive. I was hoping to run around 7:30 pace as a warm up for Sunday, so I was looking for a time around 37:50 for the 5 miles. But as ever, the best laid plans etc....
After a good warm up jog down to the start on a really pleasant warm, almost summer-like evening, the gun went off and we were away. The rcae is generally run on flat country roads, with a little incline around the 3.5 mile mark, but nothing to write home about. I settled quickly into what I believed to be a steady rhythm, not running too fast, or so I thought. I won't bore you with who I passed, or who passed me, but I hit the Mile 1 mark in 6:50 - What was I doing?
I kept going, amazed at my pace, and conscious that it was too fast, but it's hard to slow yourself down too rapidly and as we wound our way around the fields in the evening sunlight, Mile 2 was hit in 7:05 - OK, so the markers were unlikely to be out, why was I running so quick, this was suicide! I let people get ahead of me so that I could try and relax my speed, but Mile 3 was upon me in 7:18, still WAY ahead of my time schedule. My best time for 5 miles in the past two years is only 36 minutes, and this was meant to be a training run!
I physically restrained myself in Mile 4. I purposely took my foot off the gas, and allowed others passed - Some enquiring if I was alright as they sailed away. Mile 4 marker was 7:46, much better, I could relax now, and just coast home. In the last mile, I was closing in on those who had passed me, and as we entered the last few hundred yards, we came onto the cinder track and the finish. I recognised the guy ahead of me, we had chatted after races last year, when he was beating me by minutes in races such as these - I was closing fast, and as we approached the bend with 60 or so yards to go to the finish, I drew onto his shoulder - Now normally I would out-kick most from here, but last night as he kicked to ward me off, I decided not to go for it - a sprint finish was not what was called for, and I relaxed and let him pull ahead, and I crossed the line a few yards behind him with a time of 36:42, and a last mile of 7:43, well ahead of my expected time, but not the greatest pacing I have ever managed :).
I was pleased with my run, although kicking myself for going off so fast. In Prague I will have to reign myself in and tie myself to the 8:30 pace I want to run at. What does augur well for the future, is that I am confident that after this marathon, I can do some speed work, and next time around, I will be kicking away at this speed, and those sub 7 miles may become more of the norm.
At the tea and snadwiches after the race (very civilized here), I was lucky enough to win a spot prize, a gift certificate for a full body massage, which my SO was delighted with when I got home and passed it on to her, so we were all happy :)..
So, maybe not the witty comments, but a fair reflection on my run last night. Rest today, and a nice easy 8 miler tomorrow with my training buddy, then I can look forward to flying away to Prague on Friday - The joy of travel and running combined :)
It was an 8pm start and with around 200 plus runners, the car park was over filled even by the time I got there at 7, but I managed to find a parking space nearby, and registered and warmed up, whilst catching up with a few old friends. The BHAA races are organised by the Businees's around Dublin, and open to all-comers. They are low-key but well organised, and relatively competitive. I was hoping to run around 7:30 pace as a warm up for Sunday, so I was looking for a time around 37:50 for the 5 miles. But as ever, the best laid plans etc....
After a good warm up jog down to the start on a really pleasant warm, almost summer-like evening, the gun went off and we were away. The rcae is generally run on flat country roads, with a little incline around the 3.5 mile mark, but nothing to write home about. I settled quickly into what I believed to be a steady rhythm, not running too fast, or so I thought. I won't bore you with who I passed, or who passed me, but I hit the Mile 1 mark in 6:50 - What was I doing?
I kept going, amazed at my pace, and conscious that it was too fast, but it's hard to slow yourself down too rapidly and as we wound our way around the fields in the evening sunlight, Mile 2 was hit in 7:05 - OK, so the markers were unlikely to be out, why was I running so quick, this was suicide! I let people get ahead of me so that I could try and relax my speed, but Mile 3 was upon me in 7:18, still WAY ahead of my time schedule. My best time for 5 miles in the past two years is only 36 minutes, and this was meant to be a training run!
I physically restrained myself in Mile 4. I purposely took my foot off the gas, and allowed others passed - Some enquiring if I was alright as they sailed away. Mile 4 marker was 7:46, much better, I could relax now, and just coast home. In the last mile, I was closing in on those who had passed me, and as we entered the last few hundred yards, we came onto the cinder track and the finish. I recognised the guy ahead of me, we had chatted after races last year, when he was beating me by minutes in races such as these - I was closing fast, and as we approached the bend with 60 or so yards to go to the finish, I drew onto his shoulder - Now normally I would out-kick most from here, but last night as he kicked to ward me off, I decided not to go for it - a sprint finish was not what was called for, and I relaxed and let him pull ahead, and I crossed the line a few yards behind him with a time of 36:42, and a last mile of 7:43, well ahead of my expected time, but not the greatest pacing I have ever managed :).
I was pleased with my run, although kicking myself for going off so fast. In Prague I will have to reign myself in and tie myself to the 8:30 pace I want to run at. What does augur well for the future, is that I am confident that after this marathon, I can do some speed work, and next time around, I will be kicking away at this speed, and those sub 7 miles may become more of the norm.
At the tea and snadwiches after the race (very civilized here), I was lucky enough to win a spot prize, a gift certificate for a full body massage, which my SO was delighted with when I got home and passed it on to her, so we were all happy :)..
So, maybe not the witty comments, but a fair reflection on my run last night. Rest today, and a nice easy 8 miler tomorrow with my training buddy, then I can look forward to flying away to Prague on Friday - The joy of travel and running combined :)
Monday, May 08, 2006
6 Days and Counting - Prague here we come
Well, I'm really starting to get into Prague Mode now. Only three days left at work, including a nice trip to the Circuit Court on Thursday morning to deal with an appeal, then our bags will be packed and we will be off via Czech Air to Prague and the Marathon. Have been checking out the Forums over at Runners World and a mixed bag of advice. Lots of talk about cobbles, and terrible food, although pretty good reviews of the Beer :) - Could be an interesting weekend.
Was up North over the weekend enjoying shopping with my dear partner as she bought out Marks and Spencer's store in Lisburn for her holidays. I'm a saint ;) -
Managed a short run of 20 minutes and 2.5 miles on Sunday in my new Asics Nimbus shoes (having changed them for the right size on Saturday at the Up and Running Store in Belfast). Not as easy as it sounds as this is a run filled with hills and a good hard workout. Added to this, I took a 4 mile treadmill run today in 30:45 and tomorrow night I have a 5 Mile race in the BHAA series in Dunboyne, Meath. I always like to try and get a race a few days before a marathon in, so I can turn the legs over at a faster speed - it tricks them into feeling I'm running easy when I start the 26 Miler.
Let's hope all goes well over the last 6 days, and I can guarantee - NO SOCCER this week!
Was up North over the weekend enjoying shopping with my dear partner as she bought out Marks and Spencer's store in Lisburn for her holidays. I'm a saint ;) -
Managed a short run of 20 minutes and 2.5 miles on Sunday in my new Asics Nimbus shoes (having changed them for the right size on Saturday at the Up and Running Store in Belfast). Not as easy as it sounds as this is a run filled with hills and a good hard workout. Added to this, I took a 4 mile treadmill run today in 30:45 and tomorrow night I have a 5 Mile race in the BHAA series in Dunboyne, Meath. I always like to try and get a race a few days before a marathon in, so I can turn the legs over at a faster speed - it tricks them into feeling I'm running easy when I start the 26 Miler.
Let's hope all goes well over the last 6 days, and I can guarantee - NO SOCCER this week!
Friday, May 05, 2006
Easing back
Nice and easy today as I eased back into running after a few days enforced lay-off. Went to the gym at lunchtime and had a short session on the treadmill to check things out. Pleased to report that a 4K run in 19:05 passed without incident and without any discomfort at all from the groin.
It was with relief that I stepped off the machine and warmed down with a few exercises. Writing this a couple of hours later and no after effects, so I'm all geared up for my Prague Marathon in 9 days. Having had my taper :), I plan to just run through the next week, and ease back in the last couple of days. We fly out on Friday next.
It was with relief that I stepped off the machine and warmed down with a few exercises. Writing this a couple of hours later and no after effects, so I'm all geared up for my Prague Marathon in 9 days. Having had my taper :), I plan to just run through the next week, and ease back in the last couple of days. We fly out on Friday next.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Recovering Nicely
Well, this is a running Blog, and I'm not running this week, allowing the muscle to completely recover, and I'm pleased to report it is 99% healed. Proof will be when I go for a light run, maybe this evening. I knew it was only a few days away from being clear, and if my Marathon had been today I think I would have been fine, but C'est la vie!
The week has been plodding along. Strange not to think about training, just relaxing, catching up on some paperwork, and yesterday was my partner's Burpday, so once I had collected her from her extended lunchtime soiree to the local hostelry we came home, I cooked a nice meal, and we relaxed over a bottle of wine with the eldest and his GF. A mid-week relaxing time, and for the first time I can recall in ages, the TV never went on all evening!
I've never really mentioned the family in my tales, so just for the record, I live in Dublin with Dee. Between us we have 5 kids, three to her and two to me, all of whom are now over 18 with only the eldest, Neville, living at home, and he's moving out before Xmas. Dee's daughter, Lynn, is expecting her first child next month, so the next generation will begin. My son, Liam Óg, is at Queens University in Belfast (he's the one who designed the header here), studying Computer Science, Dee's youngest, Brian is working out in Spain at the moment (we're heading out later this month to visit him and take a vacation in the sun), before coming home in September to start College, and finally my daughter, Melanie, lives in England with her mom, but is a regular visitor.
So, a week off running, and thoughts turn to family and birthdays. It's great to have them around, but it's also great after the trails of them growing up, to see them making their own lives, facing their own problems, enjoying their own space, so we can enjoy ours. The kids all do some sport or other, although as yet I haven't managed to get any of them serious about running, they dabble from time to time.
Now then, about that running............................................................
The week has been plodding along. Strange not to think about training, just relaxing, catching up on some paperwork, and yesterday was my partner's Burpday, so once I had collected her from her extended lunchtime soiree to the local hostelry we came home, I cooked a nice meal, and we relaxed over a bottle of wine with the eldest and his GF. A mid-week relaxing time, and for the first time I can recall in ages, the TV never went on all evening!
I've never really mentioned the family in my tales, so just for the record, I live in Dublin with Dee. Between us we have 5 kids, three to her and two to me, all of whom are now over 18 with only the eldest, Neville, living at home, and he's moving out before Xmas. Dee's daughter, Lynn, is expecting her first child next month, so the next generation will begin. My son, Liam Óg, is at Queens University in Belfast (he's the one who designed the header here), studying Computer Science, Dee's youngest, Brian is working out in Spain at the moment (we're heading out later this month to visit him and take a vacation in the sun), before coming home in September to start College, and finally my daughter, Melanie, lives in England with her mom, but is a regular visitor.
So, a week off running, and thoughts turn to family and birthdays. It's great to have them around, but it's also great after the trails of them growing up, to see them making their own lives, facing their own problems, enjoying their own space, so we can enjoy ours. The kids all do some sport or other, although as yet I haven't managed to get any of them serious about running, they dabble from time to time.
Now then, about that running............................................................
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Sense and Sensibility
OK, It's Tuesday, I'm home and you want to know how I got on.
Well, here's the Short Story - I dropped out before Mile 7!!!
The Long Story - Well, I had told you about my total lack of sense and my 5 a-side soccer game last week and the strained muscle. Memo to self - NEVER play any other sport in the week preceeding a marathon. Well, it had been responding to the ice, and on Saturday morning I went to my physio and had a good masage on my legs to get me ready for Monday's race. She advised Deep Heat on the strain, and all should be well.
Up to Belfast to collect my Race Pack, very low key, no hastle, in fact very little of anything! Sunday was spent resting, keeping hydrated, and ensuring my injury was treated and feeling fine.
Monday morning saw me up at 6 and up to the City, parked, changed, track-suited, and looking for my club mates well before 8 am, an hour before the start. It was chillier than expected, and I stretched, kept warm and finally discarded my gear with 10 minutes to go. I lined up near the front of the field, mainly to avoid the walkers who were starting at the same time as us, along with all the relay competitors - The Belfast City Marathon has a very heavy emphasis on the Relay, so Ray O'Connor and myself (He of Connemara Marathon fame) set up nicely near the front to get an even start. We were both looking at running around 8:30 pace.
The race started and we were quickly into out stride as we left City Hall, running out towards the River. After only a couple of minutes Ray called that we were running sub 8 pace, but I knew we would settle down once we cleared the city. Before the first mile marker we crossed the river, catching up with Gerry Ford in his wheelchair, and Ray eased back to have a chat with Gerry as he climbed the approach to the bridge. I kept on going and the First Mile Mark was passed in 7:20 - GULP!!!! - Wayyyyy toooo quick... But I actually felt that I was running well within myself.
I eased myself down, trying to slow down. This is actually harder than you think, especially when you are so full of running. An added difficulty was the numbers passing me, then I realised that these were the Relay runners, only running three miles on the first leg. Mile 2 was reached at 15 minutes dead by my watch, I had slowed a little but had still run 7:40. There were a few ups and downs in these early miles, nothing serious, but enough to bring variety to the cadence, and it was around Mile 2 that I started to feel my groin muscle. At first it was just a little nag, a tingle, but I could feel it. I kept going easily, through Mile 3 in 7:35, and as we approached the relay exchange I could now feel the groin on each stride. It wasn't agony or anything like, but a constant ache each time my left leg went through it's cycle of motion.
I tried to slow down further, hoping to run off any discomfort. My mind was racing now. I was running easily, well inside my target time, but not over exerting. My training was paying off, and Mile 4 was run in 8:05 and I knew I could crank out miles at this pace for a good while to come. But the leg was hurting now. The ache was becoming a constant reminder of the strain, and I still had 22 miles to run.
The first 6 miles of this race loop around east Belfast before heading back into the City and then out west and north, before returning to the finish. I had a decision to make. I kept the pace even and reached Mile 5 in 38:54, for an 8:14 mile, and this was run with a squally shower into my face (the only rain I experienced on the day), and it was back into the City and Mile 6 approaching. It was now or never I thought. Should I continue the race and risk the injury more, or should I take the opportunity of being back in the City, easy access to the finish and my clothes, and live to fight another day. I'm due to be running Prague in two weeks!
I have only ever dropped out of one other marathon, and that was due to injury, albeit one that occured on the course. That was a heartbreaker. This one was more a common Sense answer to the problem. By Mile 6, and a 8:07 mile, making 47:01 for a 6 Mile run, my leg was aching, again, not agony, but enough to know that another 20 miles on this would not be pretty. I made my decision. I pulled to the side of the road, waited for Ray to come along, he was looking good, I ran alongside him for another half mile or so, just to let him know that I was pulling out and explaining why, wishing him well etc., and then I pulled away from the race, walked back to the Finish Area, got my clothes, deposited my chip and siddled away, strangely with no regrets for having pulled out.
When I got home, my SO was disappointed for me, but I had a strange feeling of actually, for the First Time in my life, practicing what I preach to others, "There is always another day". If you are injured, you only do yourself harm - I have run through injuries in the past, and ended up missing weeks of training and other races because of it - This time, I knew I was doing the right thing. Sure I missed out on another medal, and the way I was feeling aside from my groin, probably a reasonable time, but I have Prague in Two weeks. The groin should have recovered completely by then, and I can have a crack at a decent run there.
Only disappointment I am feeling today as I write this, is that I wanted to complete an Irish Grand Slam this year. But much like our fabled Rugby Team - There is always next year!
P.S. The groin is feeling great this morning. I treated it last night, and I should be running easily by the weekend. If I had continued yesterday, I doubt I would be walking too comfortably. Onward to the Czech Republic and a nice little break and hopefully a more interesting run on May 14th :)
Well, here's the Short Story - I dropped out before Mile 7!!!
The Long Story - Well, I had told you about my total lack of sense and my 5 a-side soccer game last week and the strained muscle. Memo to self - NEVER play any other sport in the week preceeding a marathon. Well, it had been responding to the ice, and on Saturday morning I went to my physio and had a good masage on my legs to get me ready for Monday's race. She advised Deep Heat on the strain, and all should be well.
Up to Belfast to collect my Race Pack, very low key, no hastle, in fact very little of anything! Sunday was spent resting, keeping hydrated, and ensuring my injury was treated and feeling fine.
Monday morning saw me up at 6 and up to the City, parked, changed, track-suited, and looking for my club mates well before 8 am, an hour before the start. It was chillier than expected, and I stretched, kept warm and finally discarded my gear with 10 minutes to go. I lined up near the front of the field, mainly to avoid the walkers who were starting at the same time as us, along with all the relay competitors - The Belfast City Marathon has a very heavy emphasis on the Relay, so Ray O'Connor and myself (He of Connemara Marathon fame) set up nicely near the front to get an even start. We were both looking at running around 8:30 pace.
The race started and we were quickly into out stride as we left City Hall, running out towards the River. After only a couple of minutes Ray called that we were running sub 8 pace, but I knew we would settle down once we cleared the city. Before the first mile marker we crossed the river, catching up with Gerry Ford in his wheelchair, and Ray eased back to have a chat with Gerry as he climbed the approach to the bridge. I kept on going and the First Mile Mark was passed in 7:20 - GULP!!!! - Wayyyyy toooo quick... But I actually felt that I was running well within myself.
I eased myself down, trying to slow down. This is actually harder than you think, especially when you are so full of running. An added difficulty was the numbers passing me, then I realised that these were the Relay runners, only running three miles on the first leg. Mile 2 was reached at 15 minutes dead by my watch, I had slowed a little but had still run 7:40. There were a few ups and downs in these early miles, nothing serious, but enough to bring variety to the cadence, and it was around Mile 2 that I started to feel my groin muscle. At first it was just a little nag, a tingle, but I could feel it. I kept going easily, through Mile 3 in 7:35, and as we approached the relay exchange I could now feel the groin on each stride. It wasn't agony or anything like, but a constant ache each time my left leg went through it's cycle of motion.
I tried to slow down further, hoping to run off any discomfort. My mind was racing now. I was running easily, well inside my target time, but not over exerting. My training was paying off, and Mile 4 was run in 8:05 and I knew I could crank out miles at this pace for a good while to come. But the leg was hurting now. The ache was becoming a constant reminder of the strain, and I still had 22 miles to run.
The first 6 miles of this race loop around east Belfast before heading back into the City and then out west and north, before returning to the finish. I had a decision to make. I kept the pace even and reached Mile 5 in 38:54, for an 8:14 mile, and this was run with a squally shower into my face (the only rain I experienced on the day), and it was back into the City and Mile 6 approaching. It was now or never I thought. Should I continue the race and risk the injury more, or should I take the opportunity of being back in the City, easy access to the finish and my clothes, and live to fight another day. I'm due to be running Prague in two weeks!
I have only ever dropped out of one other marathon, and that was due to injury, albeit one that occured on the course. That was a heartbreaker. This one was more a common Sense answer to the problem. By Mile 6, and a 8:07 mile, making 47:01 for a 6 Mile run, my leg was aching, again, not agony, but enough to know that another 20 miles on this would not be pretty. I made my decision. I pulled to the side of the road, waited for Ray to come along, he was looking good, I ran alongside him for another half mile or so, just to let him know that I was pulling out and explaining why, wishing him well etc., and then I pulled away from the race, walked back to the Finish Area, got my clothes, deposited my chip and siddled away, strangely with no regrets for having pulled out.
When I got home, my SO was disappointed for me, but I had a strange feeling of actually, for the First Time in my life, practicing what I preach to others, "There is always another day". If you are injured, you only do yourself harm - I have run through injuries in the past, and ended up missing weeks of training and other races because of it - This time, I knew I was doing the right thing. Sure I missed out on another medal, and the way I was feeling aside from my groin, probably a reasonable time, but I have Prague in Two weeks. The groin should have recovered completely by then, and I can have a crack at a decent run there.
Only disappointment I am feeling today as I write this, is that I wanted to complete an Irish Grand Slam this year. But much like our fabled Rugby Team - There is always next year!
P.S. The groin is feeling great this morning. I treated it last night, and I should be running easily by the weekend. If I had continued yesterday, I doubt I would be walking too comfortably. Onward to the Czech Republic and a nice little break and hopefully a more interesting run on May 14th :)
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