OK, it's not Saturday morning, but, as it's the end of the year, I thought I do a Scribble anyway. It's a time to reflect on the year gone by, and look forward to the year ahead, planning what we hope for.
Personally it's been a very mixed year. My own running has been virtually non existant, due to my surgery in April, and the lengthy recovery process. On the plus side, despite the time involved, after two years of worry, I'm Cancer Free, and can look forward to 2020 in a positive way, and aim to be back on the running scene in January, having signed up for the Lord Mayors Challenge to restart.
One of the things I have loved during the year has been seeing the posts from folk on here as their running lives have developed. I won't embarrass anyone by naming names, but it is a joy to see how fellow runners, friends, have enjoyed their running, improved and become more confident in their own abilities. Continue on into 2020 and beyond.
Having been sidelined all year myself, I empathise with those still struggling to recover from injury, illness, or, as in my case too, the onset of older age catching up with us. Here's hoping we can all get back to what we love to do over the next 366 days, Yes We Can.
Sadly the last week of the year saw the news that a friend, and local runner lost her life tragically, and a dear friend of mine on the other side of the world in Argentina, also a runner, died after a short illness on Saturday past. The world will be worse off for both losses.
Finally, let me sign off by wishing everyone here a Happy New Year. If you're running on New Years Day, it's still OK to raise a glass to the turn of the year tonight. Never forget that we do this for fun, no need to head to bed at 10 o'clock and miss the festivities, running should be part of our lives, not all consuming.
I'm still on holiday for a few more days, enduring the heat (38C) in Buenos Aires, but looking forward to joining you all on the roads and trails of an Irish January next week and beyond. I look forward to catching up with old friends, and New, in 2020 at races, parkruns and even on the streets of Dublin. Have a great time tonight, and an even better 2020, and quite simply, whatever your goals for the New Year, go for them, and of course...... ENJOY!
Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Saturday, November 09, 2019
Scribble Time - Saturday 9th November 2019
Good morning all, Happy #parkrunday. Yes, these Saturdays come around quickly don't they? The DCM40 is now in the dim and distant past, and hopefully those that ran the streets od Dublin are now fully recovered from their neck pains, having worn their medal for these past two weeks 😂... With pride of course..
So, getting back to normal, and thoughts turned to what's next. Maybe it's time to just relax a bit, enjoy a non specific training block of running, take in a #parkrun or two over the next few weeks and simply run for fun. With Christmas around the corner, and all that brings with it, don't just hang up your runners until the New Year, but equally, no need to be overdoing things either. Just enjoy your running, with no pressure for a few weeks.
One thing I'd like to mention this week is aimed at new runners, as well as those of us who have been around a while. From time to time, we see posts asking as to which pair of runners is best? Or, something along the lines of, "I'm getting a niggle with the new version of xyz runners, which companies new shoe should I change to?"..... Along come the answers, based on individual preferences, all well intentioned, but can be the worst possible information for someone else. We are all different, our feet, our style of running, our weight, even our age. What works for one, can be a disaster for others...
So, please, if you feel your tried and tested shoe has changed, and you are thinking of something new, go to a running shop. Get yourself checked, talk to the experts, explain what type of athlete you are, what you are aiming for. Don't risk injury by simply taking "advice" from a friend on here who swears by the new jkl23 shoe. Not only that, runners aren't cheap, buy a pair that you can't run in after a week and you're out of pocket by a tidy sum, and you still need to go back and buy another pair.
Anyway, enough of my rant. Good running this weekend, with the Remembrance Run taking centre stage in Dublin, a good way to remember friends and family no longer with us along the road. Wherever you may be running this week, long or short, always remember to smile, say Hi to a fellow runner you pass and always, always, have fun out there, ENJOY...
So, getting back to normal, and thoughts turned to what's next. Maybe it's time to just relax a bit, enjoy a non specific training block of running, take in a #parkrun or two over the next few weeks and simply run for fun. With Christmas around the corner, and all that brings with it, don't just hang up your runners until the New Year, but equally, no need to be overdoing things either. Just enjoy your running, with no pressure for a few weeks.
One thing I'd like to mention this week is aimed at new runners, as well as those of us who have been around a while. From time to time, we see posts asking as to which pair of runners is best? Or, something along the lines of, "I'm getting a niggle with the new version of xyz runners, which companies new shoe should I change to?"..... Along come the answers, based on individual preferences, all well intentioned, but can be the worst possible information for someone else. We are all different, our feet, our style of running, our weight, even our age. What works for one, can be a disaster for others...
So, please, if you feel your tried and tested shoe has changed, and you are thinking of something new, go to a running shop. Get yourself checked, talk to the experts, explain what type of athlete you are, what you are aiming for. Don't risk injury by simply taking "advice" from a friend on here who swears by the new jkl23 shoe. Not only that, runners aren't cheap, buy a pair that you can't run in after a week and you're out of pocket by a tidy sum, and you still need to go back and buy another pair.
Anyway, enough of my rant. Good running this weekend, with the Remembrance Run taking centre stage in Dublin, a good way to remember friends and family no longer with us along the road. Wherever you may be running this week, long or short, always remember to smile, say Hi to a fellow runner you pass and always, always, have fun out there, ENJOY...
Saturday, November 02, 2019
357 Days to #DCM2020 - Yes, I'm back - My Saturday Scribble - Nov 2nd 2019...
Well, it's Saturday, and by now, those 35,000 odd legs that travelled around Dublin last Sunday, should be getting back to normal. With all the hype about the lottery and entry for next years #DCM2020 that's been going on this week, we can easily forget that there are a lot of other races, runs, trails, cross country and #parkruns that take place all year round, not just on the Bank Holiday Weekend every October. So, why not think positively about them, aim in the short term, look at the obvious, #parkrun, they are a lot easier to run than a marathon, and can be just as much fun (without the threat of not being able to get down stairs the next day!).
But I know, that many will have already forked out there entry fee for #DCM2020, myself included, and it's only 358 days to the start - So, should we be thinking that far ahead? The simple answer is NO. Of course, having paid your 93 euro, it's a;ready in the back (or front) of your mind, but first and foremost, if you ran last weekend, is getting back gently into running. A rest is a good thing after a marathon, especially if it was your first, but that doesn't have to mean feet up until Xmas, and think about starting again once the New Year arrives, and those extra kilos of turkey and ham will fall off .... No, it means easy running, gentle, maybe a parkrun or two, possibly one of the many races coming up in November, and in the run up to Xmas.
Time to refocus, think off priorities, be they family, be they a spring marathon, or something simpler. there is plenty of time to think about DCM2020 come Easter. one BIG advantage for 2020 is that you get ONE extra Day to prepare, could make all the difference, yes, next year has a Feb 29th - so, no excuses of not enough time, you get a whole extra 24 hours :)...
It was an absolute delight for me to see so many of you on route last Sunday - Hugs a plenty, along with Hi Fives and Shout Outs as you passed me with just 1Km to go. That was my fifth year there in the past six (I ran DCM in 2016), but next year, come hell or high water, I will have to leave a cardboard cut-out of myself at that spot, as I will be running the event. You all know why I haven't been able to do so in the last couple of years, but, that is almost all behind me, and while I wrote above about not looking so far ahead for #DCM2020 just yet, I'm not listening to my own advice, as it is my focus for the next 357 days, 22 hours, 29 minutes and 30 seconds (as I type this) - Yes, I'm sad, I have a Countdown Clock set up already.......
But there will be a lot of steps along the way, and I hope you can join me on some, and I am so looking forward to getting back to races, catching up with old friends and making new ones along the way - One thing is for sure, I'm going to be out there, smiling, and you know what, I'm going to do with every step, ENJOY!!!
But I know, that many will have already forked out there entry fee for #DCM2020, myself included, and it's only 358 days to the start - So, should we be thinking that far ahead? The simple answer is NO. Of course, having paid your 93 euro, it's a;ready in the back (or front) of your mind, but first and foremost, if you ran last weekend, is getting back gently into running. A rest is a good thing after a marathon, especially if it was your first, but that doesn't have to mean feet up until Xmas, and think about starting again once the New Year arrives, and those extra kilos of turkey and ham will fall off .... No, it means easy running, gentle, maybe a parkrun or two, possibly one of the many races coming up in November, and in the run up to Xmas.
Time to refocus, think off priorities, be they family, be they a spring marathon, or something simpler. there is plenty of time to think about DCM2020 come Easter. one BIG advantage for 2020 is that you get ONE extra Day to prepare, could make all the difference, yes, next year has a Feb 29th - so, no excuses of not enough time, you get a whole extra 24 hours :)...
It was an absolute delight for me to see so many of you on route last Sunday - Hugs a plenty, along with Hi Fives and Shout Outs as you passed me with just 1Km to go. That was my fifth year there in the past six (I ran DCM in 2016), but next year, come hell or high water, I will have to leave a cardboard cut-out of myself at that spot, as I will be running the event. You all know why I haven't been able to do so in the last couple of years, but, that is almost all behind me, and while I wrote above about not looking so far ahead for #DCM2020 just yet, I'm not listening to my own advice, as it is my focus for the next 357 days, 22 hours, 29 minutes and 30 seconds (as I type this) - Yes, I'm sad, I have a Countdown Clock set up already.......
But there will be a lot of steps along the way, and I hope you can join me on some, and I am so looking forward to getting back to races, catching up with old friends and making new ones along the way - One thing is for sure, I'm going to be out there, smiling, and you know what, I'm going to do with every step, ENJOY!!!
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Saturday Scribble - Oct 26th 2019 - The Dublin City Marathon #40
Well, this is it! The weekend of DCM40. For many, the culmination of many months of early morning run, family sacrifices, black toes, weekends being planned around long runs, and hard work. And all for a trot around the City of Dublin for a piece of metal, and a t shirt.... But of course, it's far more than that.....
We all have our different reasons for signing up, training, and taking part. Whatever yours was, whether it's your first time, or your 101st, the hard work is all over, and by Monday, you will be back to normal, well, apart from the sore legs, and the inability to get down the stairs 😂.
With 24 hours left before the big day the nerves kick in, so how should you spend these hours of nervous energy? If you have to go the expo today, don't spend hours there walking around. Get in, get your number, yes, take a look at the stands, pick up a few freebies, but today is not the day to be on your feet, leave that for tomorrow. Not the best day to go sightseeing if Dublin is unfamiliar to you, best to save that for another time. You'll see quite a lot of the City tomorrow......
No, today is about taking it easy. Personally, I like to put on my runners the day before the big one, get out, and JOG, a very easy couple of miles, just to ease the nerves, release some of that nervous energy, it's always helped me. By late afternoon, early evening, it's time to eat your last meal, the pre marathon gourge.. WAIT, NO, don't gourge, eat normally. Yes, it's a good idea to take on carbs, pasta was my fave, but don't eat anything new to the system, stick to tried and tested foods. Don't over do it.
Try and get to bed at a normal time. You won't sleep too well, rare that anyone does the night before. Remember the clocks go back, so you get an extra hour to be restless 😁. Lay out your kit before hitting the sack, be prepared, no last minute glitches, and set the alarm to make sure you're not rushing in the morning.
Breakfast should be arranged. Again, don't take anything unfamiliar, you should know what you need, and what you can eat before a long run by now, so don't go mad. For me, it was a bagel, yoghurt and banana, for many, it's porridge, but don't overdo it. Most importantly, hydrate. Bríng a bottle of water with you to the start line, sip as you wait, nice, easy sips, and once the race starts, always take on a small amount of water at each feed station. Remember, if you start to feel thirsty, it's too late.
One last thing to remember.. Stick to your plan. Hardest thing is to run slow, the buzz of the crowd, your fellow runners etc., will make the first few miles seem very easy, but keep a close eye on your pace, keep it steady, you have a long way to go.
Friends, family, and total strangers will cheer you, carry you along. When you get to see me, it's the home straight, 1 km to go, you really are Nearly There... I'll be trying to give everyone a shout out, a Hi 5, a hug if needed, but sadly, no donkey backs, those final meters are yours to ENJOY.... Good Luck to everyone... You've got this......
We all have our different reasons for signing up, training, and taking part. Whatever yours was, whether it's your first time, or your 101st, the hard work is all over, and by Monday, you will be back to normal, well, apart from the sore legs, and the inability to get down the stairs 😂.
With 24 hours left before the big day the nerves kick in, so how should you spend these hours of nervous energy? If you have to go the expo today, don't spend hours there walking around. Get in, get your number, yes, take a look at the stands, pick up a few freebies, but today is not the day to be on your feet, leave that for tomorrow. Not the best day to go sightseeing if Dublin is unfamiliar to you, best to save that for another time. You'll see quite a lot of the City tomorrow......
No, today is about taking it easy. Personally, I like to put on my runners the day before the big one, get out, and JOG, a very easy couple of miles, just to ease the nerves, release some of that nervous energy, it's always helped me. By late afternoon, early evening, it's time to eat your last meal, the pre marathon gourge.. WAIT, NO, don't gourge, eat normally. Yes, it's a good idea to take on carbs, pasta was my fave, but don't eat anything new to the system, stick to tried and tested foods. Don't over do it.
Try and get to bed at a normal time. You won't sleep too well, rare that anyone does the night before. Remember the clocks go back, so you get an extra hour to be restless 😁. Lay out your kit before hitting the sack, be prepared, no last minute glitches, and set the alarm to make sure you're not rushing in the morning.
Breakfast should be arranged. Again, don't take anything unfamiliar, you should know what you need, and what you can eat before a long run by now, so don't go mad. For me, it was a bagel, yoghurt and banana, for many, it's porridge, but don't overdo it. Most importantly, hydrate. Bríng a bottle of water with you to the start line, sip as you wait, nice, easy sips, and once the race starts, always take on a small amount of water at each feed station. Remember, if you start to feel thirsty, it's too late.
One last thing to remember.. Stick to your plan. Hardest thing is to run slow, the buzz of the crowd, your fellow runners etc., will make the first few miles seem very easy, but keep a close eye on your pace, keep it steady, you have a long way to go.
Friends, family, and total strangers will cheer you, carry you along. When you get to see me, it's the home straight, 1 km to go, you really are Nearly There... I'll be trying to give everyone a shout out, a Hi 5, a hug if needed, but sadly, no donkey backs, those final meters are yours to ENJOY.... Good Luck to everyone... You've got this......
Saturday, October 19, 2019
#DCM40 minus One week - Saturday thoughts
The time is fast approaching - Where has the last six months gone? Yes, just a week left for all who have been training, preparing, agonising, but, its the last weekend before the big day.... Sunday 27th October - The day the clocks go back..
Oh yes, something else is happening next Sunday, the little matter of a run around Dublin for many friends here on #RSP. So, aside from biting nails, staying away from any members of the family with even the slightest sniffle, wrapping yourself up in bubble warp to avoid any chance of an injury, what should you do in the last week prior to the big race?
My advice, just go about life normally. Of course you should be on taper mode, which doesn't mean doing nothing, just don't do anything too intensively. All the hard work has been done, or at least should have been. You are not going to make up for any lost training in the last seven days, don't panic - YOU will be fine... A few easy runs this week to keep the legs ticking over - Get your plans in place for the weekend, pack your kit bag - Arrange where to meet your loved ones after the race - (May I suggest McGrattans Pub for refreshment after the run) -
One thing I used to do the week before a Marathon, was to go for a short run, maybe a race over 5 or 10K, and run it faster than marathon pace, NOT flat out at 5K pace. The idea is to get the legs feeling that they can turn over at a faster pace. Marathon pace training can get the body used to running relatively slowly, and muscle memory is important in running, so a faster than marathon pace run will remind those muscles that you can run quicker (don't go sprinting here!), so when you run the marathon next week, the leg speed will feel easier.
So, if you are running #DCM40 next week, have a quiet, easy week, just a normal one. Don't eat anything off the wall, stick to your normal routine, and DON'T PANIC - You've done the hard work, look forward to it, tingle with excitement, and think about how you will feel when you reach Merrion Square next Sunday -
For those not doing the Marathon this year, or any year come to think of it, hope you have a great weekend too, maybe a #parkrun, maybe an easy run with friends, or maybe like me, you are sat in front of the box watching the rugby, still sidelined from injury or illness. Whatever you do this weekend, always remember, running is fun, or at least should be, and when we run, we should smile, say hello to fellow runners, and always, always ENJOY!
Oh yes, something else is happening next Sunday, the little matter of a run around Dublin for many friends here on #RSP. So, aside from biting nails, staying away from any members of the family with even the slightest sniffle, wrapping yourself up in bubble warp to avoid any chance of an injury, what should you do in the last week prior to the big race?
My advice, just go about life normally. Of course you should be on taper mode, which doesn't mean doing nothing, just don't do anything too intensively. All the hard work has been done, or at least should have been. You are not going to make up for any lost training in the last seven days, don't panic - YOU will be fine... A few easy runs this week to keep the legs ticking over - Get your plans in place for the weekend, pack your kit bag - Arrange where to meet your loved ones after the race - (May I suggest McGrattans Pub for refreshment after the run) -
One thing I used to do the week before a Marathon, was to go for a short run, maybe a race over 5 or 10K, and run it faster than marathon pace, NOT flat out at 5K pace. The idea is to get the legs feeling that they can turn over at a faster pace. Marathon pace training can get the body used to running relatively slowly, and muscle memory is important in running, so a faster than marathon pace run will remind those muscles that you can run quicker (don't go sprinting here!), so when you run the marathon next week, the leg speed will feel easier.
So, if you are running #DCM40 next week, have a quiet, easy week, just a normal one. Don't eat anything off the wall, stick to your normal routine, and DON'T PANIC - You've done the hard work, look forward to it, tingle with excitement, and think about how you will feel when you reach Merrion Square next Sunday -
For those not doing the Marathon this year, or any year come to think of it, hope you have a great weekend too, maybe a #parkrun, maybe an easy run with friends, or maybe like me, you are sat in front of the box watching the rugby, still sidelined from injury or illness. Whatever you do this weekend, always remember, running is fun, or at least should be, and when we run, we should smile, say hello to fellow runners, and always, always ENJOY!
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Saturday 21st September - And it's Saturday Scribble Time
Good morning everyone - Up bright and early today, for my other love - the Rugby, and Australia v Fiji to start the day. I'm sure I'm not the only one up this early today, but for many of you that are up, it's more likely you are getting ready for the Dublin Half Marathon this morning. Over the years I've run this one four times, usually in preparation for an autumn marathon, and I'm sure many of the sell out crowd will be using this as an indicator for DCM40 in just five weeks - Gulp! Yep, only 5 Weeks left.
I've said it before, but if you are targetting the 42 K next month, remember this is a stepping stone race, a warm up. Run to a plan today, get used to running in a large pack, get your hydration right, and don't over do things. Of course, many will have this race as their target, and have no thoughts of running the marathon, at least not this year. In that case, have a perfect run today, again, keep to your plan, don't set off too fast and blow up half way round, it's easy to get carried away with the crowd - remember this is your race, your target - run YOUR race...
Of course, the Dublin Half is not the only race this weekend, with the Belfast Half tomorrow (personally, not sure that's the best scheduling with the two capitals of our island having their premier halves the same weekend!), so if you are heading up North tomorrow, have a great one there. I also know a few intrepid travellers have headed over to France for the Run Disney Run with Mickey la Souris (leaving cert French was a long time ago!), and others have headed to Scotland for the Glasgow Half, so best of luck to all on the road.
Of course, not everyone reading this wants to be running long distances, and naturally enough, there are plenty of #parkrunie up and down the country to get you going, so if you are heading out to run, or volunteer this morning, have fun on this last Saturday of summer - Monday is the equinox and the official start of autumn.
Plenty happening this weekend, and as I write this, it's a beautiful sunrise, augurs well for your runs, and Fiji are leading at half time too! So, whether you are running in the Phoenix Park, or further afield, have a great weekend, and as ever, run with a smile, and ENJOY!
I've said it before, but if you are targetting the 42 K next month, remember this is a stepping stone race, a warm up. Run to a plan today, get used to running in a large pack, get your hydration right, and don't over do things. Of course, many will have this race as their target, and have no thoughts of running the marathon, at least not this year. In that case, have a perfect run today, again, keep to your plan, don't set off too fast and blow up half way round, it's easy to get carried away with the crowd - remember this is your race, your target - run YOUR race...
Of course, the Dublin Half is not the only race this weekend, with the Belfast Half tomorrow (personally, not sure that's the best scheduling with the two capitals of our island having their premier halves the same weekend!), so if you are heading up North tomorrow, have a great one there. I also know a few intrepid travellers have headed over to France for the Run Disney Run with Mickey la Souris (leaving cert French was a long time ago!), and others have headed to Scotland for the Glasgow Half, so best of luck to all on the road.
Of course, not everyone reading this wants to be running long distances, and naturally enough, there are plenty of #parkrunie up and down the country to get you going, so if you are heading out to run, or volunteer this morning, have fun on this last Saturday of summer - Monday is the equinox and the official start of autumn.
Plenty happening this weekend, and as I write this, it's a beautiful sunrise, augurs well for your runs, and Fiji are leading at half time too! So, whether you are running in the Phoenix Park, or further afield, have a great weekend, and as ever, run with a smile, and ENJOY!
Saturday, August 31, 2019
Saturday Scribble - August 31st, 2019 - The last days of Summer
Yep, it's the last day of August - Where has the year gone? And as summer comes to an end (Did we have one this year?), the clock starts to speed up its countdown to the Big Prize for many - DCM. Only 8 weeks away now, and the training should all be about getting fine tuned for the Bank Holiday Weekend on the East Coast.
You should be feeling worn out every day, at least, if you've been getting in the miles over July & August. If you haven't been able to stick to your plans, don't go mad and start trying to play catch up - Work away gradually over the next 7 weeks (note I say 7, the last week is for tapering), try and build up by no more than 10%, do NOT jump from, say, your longest run of 10 miles, to suddenly try and do a 20 miler, it will hurt, and will not benefit you come October.
Don't worry about that feeling of tiredness, keep with your plan, get those long runs in, but ensure you run them at the right speed - Don't leave your best Marathon on the streets of Drogheda, or Sandymount Strand, keep your Long Runs slow and steady, slower pace than you plan to run on Marathon Day, and believe in yourself - That's the most important part of running a Marathon, especially if its your first - Belief... You can do it.
I appreciate that not everyone is aiming for a Marathon, we are all at different stages of our running journeys. After my long lay off (and still missing in action, or inaction!), my target is to regain some fitness to be able to run a #parkrun, with my long run to be 3 km! We all have our own targets, so don't get put off by all the fantastic marathon posts, we all started somewhere, and for many the Marathon has never been a goal, the target can be any distance - Remember, its your Target.
I'll love you and leave you to go out running now, be it a training run, your local #parkrunie , a race around the island, or maybe a rest day today with a long run tomorrow. Wherever you may be in your running life, have fun, smile when you run, say hi as you pass a fellow runner on your trails, and remember, ENJOY!
You should be feeling worn out every day, at least, if you've been getting in the miles over July & August. If you haven't been able to stick to your plans, don't go mad and start trying to play catch up - Work away gradually over the next 7 weeks (note I say 7, the last week is for tapering), try and build up by no more than 10%, do NOT jump from, say, your longest run of 10 miles, to suddenly try and do a 20 miler, it will hurt, and will not benefit you come October.
Don't worry about that feeling of tiredness, keep with your plan, get those long runs in, but ensure you run them at the right speed - Don't leave your best Marathon on the streets of Drogheda, or Sandymount Strand, keep your Long Runs slow and steady, slower pace than you plan to run on Marathon Day, and believe in yourself - That's the most important part of running a Marathon, especially if its your first - Belief... You can do it.
I appreciate that not everyone is aiming for a Marathon, we are all at different stages of our running journeys. After my long lay off (and still missing in action, or inaction!), my target is to regain some fitness to be able to run a #parkrun, with my long run to be 3 km! We all have our own targets, so don't get put off by all the fantastic marathon posts, we all started somewhere, and for many the Marathon has never been a goal, the target can be any distance - Remember, its your Target.
I'll love you and leave you to go out running now, be it a training run, your local #parkrunie , a race around the island, or maybe a rest day today with a long run tomorrow. Wherever you may be in your running life, have fun, smile when you run, say hi as you pass a fellow runner on your trails, and remember, ENJOY!
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Saturday Scribble - August 24th 2019
Better late than never today. Had a wee lie on this morning, and have a few things to get done today, none of which include running unfortunately. Little matter of the Ireland / England match this afternoon to fit in too - I know it's only a warm up game, but its Ireland v England, so always an edge to these games, even with nothing at stake.
I'll keep this weeks scribble short and sweet, and thoroughly recommend a read of my good friend Orna's post from yesterday an excellent piece of writing, and a wonderful insight into what you can achieve, rather than feel you are not able - Read it and go for it..
"Long Long Post: For what it's worth! I've noticed a few posts lately with an underlying if not obvious tone, of runners starting to doubt their ability to run their 1st of a distance. Everyone to their own but for what it's worth I started running in my 40s and never really put myself under pressure to rush into a race/time but I always knew I found it a bit easier than some others to reach said goals. That's not showing off, that's, I'm small/slim, some might say thin and it wasn't what some of you amazing runners have had to go through to get results. In saying that, I trained, if nothing else I'm very consistent and I'm sometimes a go for it kinda gal. My first race was a 5km in 2011 and my 1st official half was Dublin in 2015. The plan for the half was a sub 1:50...fast to some, not for many others, the point is, I don't think it was conservative for MY 1st.. Ppl will always suggest you enjoy your first of any distance and don't race, well I get it but if you prepare, if you think you can, I say go for it, it's still one of my proudest races (Thank you James forever for helping me get there) Same with my first marathon, train, believe in your plan and I can't emphasize enough believe in yourself, some guy/gal wrote the plan but your feckin' running it! Again I went for it and my first marathon is still my PB (not sure what that says 🤔) The reason I'm telling you my experiences is because it's confidence and self belief that for me got me results. I'm not the most dedicated runner and some times I'll go all gut busting out but lately I pace, it's rewarding in another way (and also a bit of a cop out) but it is what I'm enjoying right now with my running. On an end note: Fact: Training doesn't always go to plan, but plans are built to accommodate that Fact: We ALL have doubts but equally we ALL have each others corner. Fact: I for one am inspired by each and every post. Fact: #runnersareawesome x "
I was out on calls yesterday, and around the Dun Laoghaire area, and noted all the signs for road closures tomorrow due to the Ironman taking place. As someone who can't swim, (just never learned!- I know, terrible, but it is what it is), I've never aspired to moving onto the triathlon, running is tough enough without drowning and torture of a bike saddle, but I admire those that do, so best of luck to anyone taking part tomorrow, or setting their sights on taking up the challenges - Again, go for it....
So, a brief note this week, normal service will be resumed next week. Wherever you may be running, be it on road, treadmill, grass or mountainside, have fun out there, run with a smile, and as always ENJOY!
I'll keep this weeks scribble short and sweet, and thoroughly recommend a read of my good friend Orna's post from yesterday an excellent piece of writing, and a wonderful insight into what you can achieve, rather than feel you are not able - Read it and go for it..
"Long Long Post: For what it's worth! I've noticed a few posts lately with an underlying if not obvious tone, of runners starting to doubt their ability to run their 1st of a distance. Everyone to their own but for what it's worth I started running in my 40s and never really put myself under pressure to rush into a race/time but I always knew I found it a bit easier than some others to reach said goals. That's not showing off, that's, I'm small/slim, some might say thin and it wasn't what some of you amazing runners have had to go through to get results. In saying that, I trained, if nothing else I'm very consistent and I'm sometimes a go for it kinda gal. My first race was a 5km in 2011 and my 1st official half was Dublin in 2015. The plan for the half was a sub 1:50...fast to some, not for many others, the point is, I don't think it was conservative for MY 1st.. Ppl will always suggest you enjoy your first of any distance and don't race, well I get it but if you prepare, if you think you can, I say go for it, it's still one of my proudest races (Thank you James forever for helping me get there) Same with my first marathon, train, believe in your plan and I can't emphasize enough believe in yourself, some guy/gal wrote the plan but your feckin' running it! Again I went for it and my first marathon is still my PB (not sure what that says 🤔) The reason I'm telling you my experiences is because it's confidence and self belief that for me got me results. I'm not the most dedicated runner and some times I'll go all gut busting out but lately I pace, it's rewarding in another way (and also a bit of a cop out) but it is what I'm enjoying right now with my running. On an end note: Fact: Training doesn't always go to plan, but plans are built to accommodate that Fact: We ALL have doubts but equally we ALL have each others corner. Fact: I for one am inspired by each and every post. Fact: #runnersareawesome x "
I was out on calls yesterday, and around the Dun Laoghaire area, and noted all the signs for road closures tomorrow due to the Ironman taking place. As someone who can't swim, (just never learned!- I know, terrible, but it is what it is), I've never aspired to moving onto the triathlon, running is tough enough without drowning and torture of a bike saddle, but I admire those that do, so best of luck to anyone taking part tomorrow, or setting their sights on taking up the challenges - Again, go for it....
So, a brief note this week, normal service will be resumed next week. Wherever you may be running, be it on road, treadmill, grass or mountainside, have fun out there, run with a smile, and as always ENJOY!
Saturday, August 17, 2019
Saturday Scribble - August 17th 2019
How did THAT happen! It's Saturday again - Is it me, or do weekends come around quicker these days? OK, before you say it, YES, I'm getting old, and we all know time moves faster when your get older.. My 5K's that used to take 20 minutes, now take nearer 30 - It's not that I'm getting slower, or put in less effort, it's simple science - Time moves faster the older we get - Problem solved - It's Not Me!!!
Talking of time, just checked the Countdown Clock to DCM40 - 10 Weeks tomorrow - Hopefully for everyone hopeful of a good run come October, the training is going well, and your long runs are starting to add up. The hard work now will reap the dividends on the Bank Holiday weekend. It's always tough as the miles increase, especially if you train alone - It can be boring, tiring, even painful, but believe me, it will be worth it in the end.
As you know, I have been off the scene for the last few months, unable to run. AT the back of mind has been the DCM race, and would it be possible to get some level of fitness to enable me to take part this year. Well, if you have seen my posts this last couple of weeks, that dream is clearly over. I'm struggling to get past 2.5km, and even if things improved dramatically in the next few weeks, there is no way I am going to attempt 42 Km, even walk/running, with such a short time to go. Yes, it's difficult to pull out of an event you have wanted to take part in, but if you have missed a large bulk of your training, been injured, ill, or just not been able to put in the effort for other reasons this summer - Think carefully of your own participation - There is always another race, another opportunity, don't put yourself at risk of injury that will have you sidelined for a long time. Frustrating ? - Yes! - But despite that time moving faster, there will always be another time, when everything clicks into place.
Well, that got that off my chest. Hopefully if you've got this far, you're fit and healthy, and maybe heading out to your #parkrun, or maybe a race somewhere around the country - If so, best of luck this weekend, and if its another long run weekend, stay hydrated, keep the pace steady, no heroics on a training run, and most of all, when you get out there, remember to have fun out there, and ENJOY!
Talking of time, just checked the Countdown Clock to DCM40 - 10 Weeks tomorrow - Hopefully for everyone hopeful of a good run come October, the training is going well, and your long runs are starting to add up. The hard work now will reap the dividends on the Bank Holiday weekend. It's always tough as the miles increase, especially if you train alone - It can be boring, tiring, even painful, but believe me, it will be worth it in the end.
As you know, I have been off the scene for the last few months, unable to run. AT the back of mind has been the DCM race, and would it be possible to get some level of fitness to enable me to take part this year. Well, if you have seen my posts this last couple of weeks, that dream is clearly over. I'm struggling to get past 2.5km, and even if things improved dramatically in the next few weeks, there is no way I am going to attempt 42 Km, even walk/running, with such a short time to go. Yes, it's difficult to pull out of an event you have wanted to take part in, but if you have missed a large bulk of your training, been injured, ill, or just not been able to put in the effort for other reasons this summer - Think carefully of your own participation - There is always another race, another opportunity, don't put yourself at risk of injury that will have you sidelined for a long time. Frustrating ? - Yes! - But despite that time moving faster, there will always be another time, when everything clicks into place.
Well, that got that off my chest. Hopefully if you've got this far, you're fit and healthy, and maybe heading out to your #parkrun, or maybe a race somewhere around the country - If so, best of luck this weekend, and if its another long run weekend, stay hydrated, keep the pace steady, no heroics on a training run, and most of all, when you get out there, remember to have fun out there, and ENJOY!
Wednesday, August 14, 2019
Wednesday 14th August - Short and not too sweet..
Still working on my stamina and breathing. Feeling laboured on this run, but it was a little quicker again than previous runs. A long way to go, but it has to be done. Managed a 2 km run, in 11:19, up to Rathgar and back down to Kenilworth Road. Cut it short at 2 Km, rather than run all the way to home.
Sunday, August 11, 2019
Sunday and another run out....
Having just got started again, I had to take a few days break, as I was working at the Dublin Horse Show, and actually walked around 15km everyday of the week, so was shattered by the time I got home. But I got out this morning, and ran a good 2.5km loop, including the drag up to Rathgar, which is always a tough start to a run, 1km up the incline, its not steep, but its a long gradual climb. On the plus side, the second half of the run is a gradual downhill, so it balances out.
Sunday, August 04, 2019
Feels like the Big Brother House - Day 4.....
Day 4. Switched up the route today, for a one lap run, with an up slope first half, and a nice down stretch on the second half. These slopes are very gentle, but a good test as I gently build up.
Saturday, August 03, 2019
Saturday Scribble - August 3rd 2019
Each week I write a Saturday Scribble for a Running Page on Facebook I've been active in for a number of years. Might as well add it to my blog each week as well, for posterity... Here is this weeks edition..
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Good morning all, and Happy Holiday Weekend everyone. Yep, it's August already, and by now many people will be racking up the miles in training as DCM40 starts to really get into focus.
No need to panic yet, still plenty of time to hone those muscles, build up the cardio, and be in top shape come the next Holiday Weekend in October. I trust everyone's training has been going well, although I know some will be feeling niggles, thinking everything is going wrong, you've not got enough miles in the legs, etc, etc..
Seriously, don't panic.. If you've missed a few sessions, had to sit out a few days with a sore calf, tight hamstring, don't rush back, don't over do it, definitely don't try and play catch up and make up the missing miles... You'll be fine, and you'll cross that finishing line come October feeling fantastic, and if it's your first Marathon, you'll shed a wee tear as you do..
I'm well aware, especially where I stand in my running renewal, that not everyone is focused on DCM. Like me, many of you may be coming back to running from an enforced layoff, it may be a case of regaining the mojo having become disillusioned with running, and for others, you may have just started your running road.
For us, the targets may be very different. Simply getting out for a run can be tough. This week, I restarted, and I confess it was a struggle. I set a very conservative goal of running 2km, and managed it, but it was tough, and I'll be out again today, and my new goal, 2.25km. Very soft you might say, but, when you are starting up, or over, don't overdo it. Be realistic in what you can achieve. Set yourself goals, short and medium.. Don't worry about that long term goal, stick to today and tomorrow, the future will come... I've set a medium target of being back at #parkrun on the 17th, two weeks away, but today, it's 2.25 km, nothing more.
One thing about being out of the sport for so long, is that I'm not as up to date with races taking place up and down the country. As it's a Holiday Weekend I know that there will be lots of people lining up on the start line somewhere, so, wherever you may be running, be it a race, a trail, a tough training session with friends, or a 2.25km run close to home as you start over, or even your first run to the corner, always remember, we do this for fun, and ENJOY!
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Good morning all, and Happy Holiday Weekend everyone. Yep, it's August already, and by now many people will be racking up the miles in training as DCM40 starts to really get into focus.
No need to panic yet, still plenty of time to hone those muscles, build up the cardio, and be in top shape come the next Holiday Weekend in October. I trust everyone's training has been going well, although I know some will be feeling niggles, thinking everything is going wrong, you've not got enough miles in the legs, etc, etc..
Seriously, don't panic.. If you've missed a few sessions, had to sit out a few days with a sore calf, tight hamstring, don't rush back, don't over do it, definitely don't try and play catch up and make up the missing miles... You'll be fine, and you'll cross that finishing line come October feeling fantastic, and if it's your first Marathon, you'll shed a wee tear as you do..
I'm well aware, especially where I stand in my running renewal, that not everyone is focused on DCM. Like me, many of you may be coming back to running from an enforced layoff, it may be a case of regaining the mojo having become disillusioned with running, and for others, you may have just started your running road.
For us, the targets may be very different. Simply getting out for a run can be tough. This week, I restarted, and I confess it was a struggle. I set a very conservative goal of running 2km, and managed it, but it was tough, and I'll be out again today, and my new goal, 2.25km. Very soft you might say, but, when you are starting up, or over, don't overdo it. Be realistic in what you can achieve. Set yourself goals, short and medium.. Don't worry about that long term goal, stick to today and tomorrow, the future will come... I've set a medium target of being back at #parkrun on the 17th, two weeks away, but today, it's 2.25 km, nothing more.
One thing about being out of the sport for so long, is that I'm not as up to date with races taking place up and down the country. As it's a Holiday Weekend I know that there will be lots of people lining up on the start line somewhere, so, wherever you may be running, be it a race, a trail, a tough training session with friends, or a 2.25km run close to home as you start over, or even your first run to the corner, always remember, we do this for fun, and ENJOY!
Wednesday, July 31, 2019
So it begins.......
And so the journey begins (again!). After 19 months with something attached to my side following surgery, on Monday of this week I was finally free of bags, attachments and bandages. Finally, and with 10 Kgs more to carry than in February, I was able to get out the door and feel free as I ran. I use the word "run" lightly, as it was tough, but I made the loop, tagging on a little extra to make it 1.25 kms. It will be a long journey to regain a good level of fitness, but the journey of etc..... has to start somewhere, and today, it did.
Monday, January 28, 2019
ALIVE................ And still running....
Yes, I am still around, just don't write as much as I used to - No excuses, just got to the stage where I felt I was boring everyone. Still, I maintain my race results on here, so thought I'd add some words, and after running my 6th Raheny 5 Miler yesterday, started doing some calculations and came up with the following which I share elsewhere, so why not on my own blog.......
I know this is sad, but I have meticulously kept training records since I started running seriously back in 1986, (yep, I'm that old!), when I retired from playing Rugby. I actually had 8 years off between 1990 and 1997, when next to nothing was run or recorded, and then slipped a disc in 2012 writing off the best part of two years, and of course, my present ailment, which has reduced my level of activity these past 14 months
For some strange reason, I started totting up my distance ran over the years, and I can report that I have recorded 21,808 kms over the years - 127 5 K Races, 53 5 milers, 63 10 K's, 30 10 milers, 24 1/2 Marathons, and 21 Full Marathons, along the way (plus other odd distance races) -
Not too sure if I should be proud at my achievements, or sad as to how much of a geek I have been in recording every detail of my journey.
The moral of this post, is that it's been great to have kept the diaries, and be able to look back on runs over a lengthy running career. From when I was a respectable club runner (long time ago!), through the setbacks and injuries, to today, where I still run and seek out age bests and calculate the age related grades, and can compare back to my younger days. I would recommend to everyone, whether you are just starting out on your journey, or like me, been a round a while, to keep a record of the trip, it's great to see where we have come from, and how we reach our goals, warts and all - Enjoy.....
I know this is sad, but I have meticulously kept training records since I started running seriously back in 1986, (yep, I'm that old!), when I retired from playing Rugby. I actually had 8 years off between 1990 and 1997, when next to nothing was run or recorded, and then slipped a disc in 2012 writing off the best part of two years, and of course, my present ailment, which has reduced my level of activity these past 14 months
For some strange reason, I started totting up my distance ran over the years, and I can report that I have recorded 21,808 kms over the years - 127 5 K Races, 53 5 milers, 63 10 K's, 30 10 milers, 24 1/2 Marathons, and 21 Full Marathons, along the way (plus other odd distance races) -
Not too sure if I should be proud at my achievements, or sad as to how much of a geek I have been in recording every detail of my journey.
The moral of this post, is that it's been great to have kept the diaries, and be able to look back on runs over a lengthy running career. From when I was a respectable club runner (long time ago!), through the setbacks and injuries, to today, where I still run and seek out age bests and calculate the age related grades, and can compare back to my younger days. I would recommend to everyone, whether you are just starting out on your journey, or like me, been a round a while, to keep a record of the trip, it's great to see where we have come from, and how we reach our goals, warts and all - Enjoy.....
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