I'm seeing my Physio today at 2.30
I've been a very good and obedient girl of late and following Physio orders to the letter. Well kind of. Letter as edited by Sandra. I was told that pool running would turn me into Freya Ross and/or Kelly Holmes, both of whom went on to PB after being injured and took to pool running. The pool belt thingy is £50 though, and add that to Physio costs along with PT costs and the faff of getting to pool it just gets silly.
This is no *ordinary* Physio btw, he was recommended to me by Debs M-C and he just happens to be Team GB Ultra Physio, he also looks after pocket rocket Antonia too, its fair to say i put my trust in him.
Mags saw on FB that i was advised to get one and offered me hers and was going to take it to Cateran but somehow we both totally forgot about it. So i mailed my Physio and asked if i could walk. Yes, he said, do it! And if it doesn't hurt then you can speed walk, go for it.
So i did. First day i asked Ian how long it would take me to walk the 3 miles to work he estimated 50minutes. I did it in 49. Yes, i was wearing a garmin. I was also, faebooking, tweeting and taking random pics and generally enjoying my surroundings. I miss a lot of that when running i guess. I saw a ship called dignity, and action men in boat windows.
I was also wearing normal clothes like a normal and was freaking freezing. Next day the lycra was back on as were couple layers and gloves. Walking does not in any way keep you warm in same way. So next day i upped the ante and decided that keeping warm was the focus. I went from 16mm to 14 . Hmm once a runner eh....
And so it continued, i did a wee bit longer every day, the pce came down further to between 13/13.5 and that wasn't walking like a crazy speedwalker person with my hips swinging out along with my arms. I was actually starting to enjoy it. I wasnt arriving at work all yawny like i had been when getting bus. What a revelation.
Thing is, Ian has been telling me this for months, quite probably years. Sometimes i listen to him, i just didnt about the walking but I'm a convert now. Sorry Ian, i bow to your knowledge.
Saw On Thursday i did a bit of jumping the gun hence the blog title and i ran a bit. It was a rather lovely day and as i power walked along road i suddenly broke into a wee trot. Don't even know where it came from, i hadn't really planned to run. Something just made me. So i ran, then i walked. I tried to keep it structured. One minute off, one on. Then i ran bit longer but still walked too. Ended up doing 7 miles, i'd say 60/40 run/walk. Did much same after work on way to PT
Donny decided the softly softly approach of last week (if you can call doing 100sit ups with a weight on my chest, god knows how many minutes planking with a weight on my back and rest of things i blanked out soft that is) and he worked me hard. Clearly making sure the calf was OK at all times. I mailed my physio on Thursday night to tell him about all the walking I'd been doing and what I'd been doing with PT. i didn't mention the running at that stage as I'd only just done it-no point worrying him -right?
Turns out he was rather impressed, even though I'd never managed to get feet wet. He told me RUN. Not just run but run twice a day for half hour until i saw him on Monday! yeah baby!
Shame i couldn't move my thighs day after PT and my calf's were super tight. So i decided to take a rest day as i had busy day planned anyway, once i was in my heels the calf's eased a bit. I knew it was the PT stuff though as it was both of them and in different place to original injury.
Saturday i ran with Ian in the glorious sunshine for just over 4 miles, thighs still sore but eased off as miles ticked by. Nice easy run for Ian day before the Edinburgh half (his 95th!)
Ran in this morning, all ok. So far so good. Suspect the sports massage today that is planned will hurt but I'll find out if I've got green light to do one more long run before whwrace or not. If i don't then its fine. What I've got from the lay off and the reluctant push into walking is a new found confidence. Sounds crazy i know but as Ultra runners we spend a fair bit of our time on hills and unless your leading the pack you'll be walking.
And i can walk.
Monday, 27 May 2013
Sunday, 12 May 2013
Cateran Trail adventues
I'm doing this blog all backwards sorry. I thought with Cateran Race next weekend I'd do update and give people who are doing it for first time an insight as to what to expect.
A couple weeks before the fling my club mates had organised a 2 day training run over the entire route. It was the week after Perth 50k and I didn't commit to it till the Monday as I wasn't sure how I'd feel. After Loch ness marathon I was broken and it took me a week to recover. After Perth I did a PB and PB at Marathon distance and was fine by next day, goodness knows how that works but I wasn't complaining.
Ian was going to footy on Sunday so he decided to come along for part of Saturday and it would be his last (and first lol) training run for London. Plan was to do Glenshee to Blairgowrie on first day and Blairgowrie to Glenshee 2nd day. Ian decided to run to Alyth which was around marathon distance.
We headed up to Alyth in morning and met Lorna & John, Ian left his car there and we headed up to meet rest gang at Glenshee. By 9.30 we were heading out into the glorious sunshine. I had my jacket on for first mile or so but it was soon discarded and I was down to my vest. There was still a lot of snow around but it was such a gloriously sunny day. I'm probably repeating what I've said before when talking about Cateran trail but I do love this route.
It's basically a tour of many farms, one day I shall count all ones you run through, I'm sure Karen could tell us exactly how many there are though. The first 6 miles were the usual, lovely trails and sinky bogs and a poor squashed Hare, the tortoise clearly had made off safely. We came across fair amount of cows on path in first few miles and Ian went to front and shooed them all away
Soon enough we are the first checkpoint area of race. Then it was 3 miles of road before getting to where we re-join trail.
Ian & Donald were a bit ahead and I climbed the massive style to join them on other side they pointed to the huge open gate to the right. They let me, and everyone else climb it before telling us.
These pics are taken from top of said style.
Might be something to look out for in race if you're running it.
The climbs started again and the snow got deeper as we went on but still the sun shone brightly on us.
We ploughed on enjoying every step and taking in the fabulous scenery. The snow was lovely to run on the bogs were, well, boggy and very icy cold when disappearing into them due to the snow & ice around. Many a time we'd come to a gate and start clambering over only for someone to then go open it. It's not like I've not done this route before! Again, if you're doing race, check first. save your legs.....
When we arrived at Alyth,we had quick pic then
Ian took off to go get his car and we waited on rest gang catching up before heading off into Den of Alyth which is another checkpoint in race.
Then it was long drag on road again up towards the fabulous Drimmie Woods. I do love this section and was looking forward to seeing the famous spiders web but we were gutted to see it was snapped in half. Guessing it must've been weight of the snow, hope it's been fixed now.
See Fionnas' sad face >>
There was also fair few trees fallen there too which we had to climb over, wasn't too much hassle though, think we managed to jump over one so it's not too much of an obstacle if it's still there. Coming out of Drimmie woods you're faced with a 2 mile steep downhill on road. Sounds pretty good right? Maybe not so much after 29miles running and knowing you've got another 23 tough miles ahead. Just be a tad cautious! We however were finishing at Blairgowrie that day so went for it and enjoyed it.
Day one complete. 32 miles.
Back t hotel for bath, food and wine and fairly early to bed for 8.30 start next day.
Typical for Scotland the weather changed completely and woke up to a fresh snow fall and snow continued to fall for entire second day so we were all layered up. We started 2nd day where the checkpoint in race is just at carpark at bottom of *that* hill
We all felt pretty good and there was plenty of runnable sections, it was minus 3 when we'd got up though so we didn't want much hanging around getting cold.
Just before Bridge of Caley checkpoint there's pretty much no point trying to avoid the bogs & mud, just embrace it and accept you'll get muddy. When you get to that CP during race I always liken it to Beinglas, you know you've broken back of race but you also know you've got to dig deep knowing whats ahead. There's a lot of runnable sections after there but there's also a lot of hills. Fionna was powering up all them and putting us all to shame but I guess that's why she won the race last yr :)
the higher we climbed the colder it got but we were all in high spirits and having great fun.
The fun proper started after last CP in race which is Enochdu. As we started the climb towards Glenshee the snow got deeper and deeper. Not the lovely runnable snow of yesterday but silly deep snow which you'd suddenly disappear into up to your knees.
It became an adventure from then and running was getting harder and harder.
the views were quite spectacular though so it was well worth it, despite it being very tough on legs. As we climbed the last big hill a mere 2 miles from end it must've taken us a good hour, certainly felt like it. when we got to top we found this!
it really was like another world , proper ice cave- quite incredible.
That last mile downhill is usually tremendous fun and it great to power down it knowing you've finished. Trying to run down this time was a nightmare and we kept on disappearing down pockets of snow and disappearing again. Look how deep the snow is here, that post is almost covered!
A couple weeks before the fling my club mates had organised a 2 day training run over the entire route. It was the week after Perth 50k and I didn't commit to it till the Monday as I wasn't sure how I'd feel. After Loch ness marathon I was broken and it took me a week to recover. After Perth I did a PB and PB at Marathon distance and was fine by next day, goodness knows how that works but I wasn't complaining.
Ian was going to footy on Sunday so he decided to come along for part of Saturday and it would be his last (and first lol) training run for London. Plan was to do Glenshee to Blairgowrie on first day and Blairgowrie to Glenshee 2nd day. Ian decided to run to Alyth which was around marathon distance.
We headed up to Alyth in morning and met Lorna & John, Ian left his car there and we headed up to meet rest gang at Glenshee. By 9.30 we were heading out into the glorious sunshine. I had my jacket on for first mile or so but it was soon discarded and I was down to my vest. There was still a lot of snow around but it was such a gloriously sunny day. I'm probably repeating what I've said before when talking about Cateran trail but I do love this route.
It's basically a tour of many farms, one day I shall count all ones you run through, I'm sure Karen could tell us exactly how many there are though. The first 6 miles were the usual, lovely trails and sinky bogs and a poor squashed Hare, the tortoise clearly had made off safely. We came across fair amount of cows on path in first few miles and Ian went to front and shooed them all away Soon enough we are the first checkpoint area of race. Then it was 3 miles of road before getting to where we re-join trail.
Ian & Donald were a bit ahead and I climbed the massive style to join them on other side they pointed to the huge open gate to the right. They let me, and everyone else climb it before telling us. These pics are taken from top of said style.
Might be something to look out for in race if you're running it.
The climbs started again and the snow got deeper as we went on but still the sun shone brightly on us.
We ploughed on enjoying every step and taking in the fabulous scenery. The snow was lovely to run on the bogs were, well, boggy and very icy cold when disappearing into them due to the snow & ice around. Many a time we'd come to a gate and start clambering over only for someone to then go open it. It's not like I've not done this route before! Again, if you're doing race, check first. save your legs..... When we arrived at Alyth,we had quick pic then
See Fionnas' sad face >>
There was also fair few trees fallen there too which we had to climb over, wasn't too much hassle though, think we managed to jump over one so it's not too much of an obstacle if it's still there. Coming out of Drimmie woods you're faced with a 2 mile steep downhill on road. Sounds pretty good right? Maybe not so much after 29miles running and knowing you've got another 23 tough miles ahead. Just be a tad cautious! We however were finishing at Blairgowrie that day so went for it and enjoyed it.
Back t hotel for bath, food and wine and fairly early to bed for 8.30 start next day.
Typical for Scotland the weather changed completely and woke up to a fresh snow fall and snow continued to fall for entire second day so we were all layered up. We started 2nd day where the checkpoint in race is just at carpark at bottom of *that* hill We all felt pretty good and there was plenty of runnable sections, it was minus 3 when we'd got up though so we didn't want much hanging around getting cold.
Just before Bridge of Caley checkpoint there's pretty much no point trying to avoid the bogs & mud, just embrace it and accept you'll get muddy. When you get to that CP during race I always liken it to Beinglas, you know you've broken back of race but you also know you've got to dig deep knowing whats ahead. There's a lot of runnable sections after there but there's also a lot of hills. Fionna was powering up all them and putting us all to shame but I guess that's why she won the race last yr :) the higher we climbed the colder it got but we were all in high spirits and having great fun.
The fun proper started after last CP in race which is Enochdu. As we started the climb towards Glenshee the snow got deeper and deeper. Not the lovely runnable snow of yesterday but silly deep snow which you'd suddenly disappear into up to your knees. 
It became an adventure from then and running was getting harder and harder. 
the views were quite spectacular though so it was well worth it, despite it being very tough on legs. As we climbed the last big hill a mere 2 miles from end it must've taken us a good hour, certainly felt like it. when we got to top we found this!
it really was like another world , proper ice cave- quite incredible.
That last mile downhill is usually tremendous fun and it great to power down it knowing you've finished. Trying to run down this time was a nightmare and we kept on disappearing down pockets of snow and disappearing again. Look how deep the snow is here, that post is almost covered!
We did make all make it down safely though and got to hotel, had celebratory drink then headed off home happy.
55 miles done over *interesting* conditions.
Hoping the weather next weekend is a tad warmer as we are marshaling.
Thursday, 9 May 2013
Following the Fling with St Nick & Santababy
After the fling i told Nick not to let me hang around the finish too long. I have zero willpower and having found boxes of wine at end i probably would've lain on floor and got it poured from above.
Think we were there for about an hour before heading off to Fort William. After taking off my roclites i discovered 2 huge blisters on heel and one on big toe. I never get blisters and on examining the shoes was appalled to see the heel worn right through. Looking at the tread on shoes they have barely worn down so I'm not very happy with Inov8 and i doubt i'll ever buy them again. Look! the tread is barely worn at all! really unhappy with them.
After our curry we headed back to hotel. I'd said to Nick I'd text him in morning when was up. Had bit of rubbish sleep, beds are crap compared to Premier Inn. Think woke up every hours or so then was wide awake by 5.30, normal for me, I'm normally up, lycra'd up and ready to go running by then. After couple cups tea and a weetabix i txt Nick about 6.30 to let him know i was awake, he'd also been up ages so we decided to head to Tyndrum sooner than expected.
Luckily I'd brought an extra pair of shoes, my Adidas Kanadias which I'd worn on my first whw race with no blisters so i wore them. Think I've only worn them couple times as felt they were a bit roomy, but with thick trail socks on they felt great.
Weather wasn't quite same as day before. Pretty bloody miserable in fact and i set off at 8am from the corner store at Tyndrum and was soon walking up that bloody hill.
But once at top i was fine and off. I do love this part of course and i ran smiling and happy not seeing another soul for about 4 miles when i came across couple campers out on hillside who'd just woken up, looked out tent and thought better off it.
I got to BoO bang on time Nick had predicted and he was ready to run with me. This part was new to him so it was nice to show him the sights and Murdo's hill (100k) point of race. Took quick pic there and enjoyed the downhill passing some walkers on way who were all very cheery despite the brutal weather. Nick ran with me til start of Rannoch Moor then headed back to car to drive to Glencoe.
Rannoch Moor isn't my most favourite part of course, i find it bleak and sore on feet. This time though i felt great! The Kanadias did a great job and my feet felt fine even with the blisters (good old compeed) passed a few walkers but mainly coming towards me and everyone was cheerful and said hello.
As i ran across the moor getting battered with rain, wind, sleet and hail i embraced every step and was actually enjoying it! But i made decision that i was going to stop at Kinlochleven. Not because i was tired or anything, i felt great and knew i could easily run to Fort William. Nick had driven from Lincoln on Saturday to support me, had then driven to FW, then me back to Tyndrum in morning and was supporting me all way back up up there. He was then heading back to Lincoln as he was working the next day. I thought that keeping him out there for 3 hours longer would serve neither of us any purpose.
Again i got to Glencoe bang on when Nick predicted and i jumped in car for quick cup tea, told Nick my plans and although he protested he knew my mind was made up. 4 minutes later i was back out running down towards Kingshouse with big fuck off hailtstones in my face and winds trying to blow me sideways.
As i ran the route from Kingshouse towards Alntfaedh i was just about to run past a walker and i said "Morning!" when he screamed like a girl and threw his arms in air. lol, i apologised for scaring him and he laughed and said he hadn't expected anyone passing him especially in this weather. He was chewing on a full block of cheese and had a big hairy beard, mistook him for Richie for a mo ;)
I got to bottom of devil and remembered with a smile the last time I'd been there, doing my up n over day. I headed off feeling strong and was even running the runnable parts. Felt like i got to top in good time and it started snowing and blowing a gale by time i got to summit. I'd got sunburnt and had worn a vest for Fling the day before for goodness sake.
As i headed off down towards to fabled town i was singing at top of my voice and loving it. Because I'd done my back n forth day i had wee markers which made me know exactly how far i had to run. Yes i know my garmin can also tell me that but that town sometimes gets further & further away the closer you get and when you're tired your mind tends to start playing tricks on you.
Nick said he'd run out to meet me and he appeared about a mile from KL, he'd fallen asleep in car which only confirmed I'd made correct decision to stop. I was singing when he met me and carried on singing til we got to car park. I felt totally elated and still had plenty energy left should i have needed it for a further 13miles.
82miles done in 2 days. I felt great on the second run, despite the crappy weather.
Then it was back in car, back to Fort William to get cleaned up & changed then head back down. Ian had said he'd meet us in Glasgow so Nick didn't have to drop me off in Edinburgh and it saved him bit more time off his journey.
I'm am so lucky and so blessed to have such good friends. How many people would put themselves out like that? I have an amazing crew.
Think we were there for about an hour before heading off to Fort William. After taking off my roclites i discovered 2 huge blisters on heel and one on big toe. I never get blisters and on examining the shoes was appalled to see the heel worn right through. Looking at the tread on shoes they have barely worn down so I'm not very happy with Inov8 and i doubt i'll ever buy them again. Look! the tread is barely worn at all! really unhappy with them.
After our curry we headed back to hotel. I'd said to Nick I'd text him in morning when was up. Had bit of rubbish sleep, beds are crap compared to Premier Inn. Think woke up every hours or so then was wide awake by 5.30, normal for me, I'm normally up, lycra'd up and ready to go running by then. After couple cups tea and a weetabix i txt Nick about 6.30 to let him know i was awake, he'd also been up ages so we decided to head to Tyndrum sooner than expected. Luckily I'd brought an extra pair of shoes, my Adidas Kanadias which I'd worn on my first whw race with no blisters so i wore them. Think I've only worn them couple times as felt they were a bit roomy, but with thick trail socks on they felt great.
Weather wasn't quite same as day before. Pretty bloody miserable in fact and i set off at 8am from the corner store at Tyndrum and was soon walking up that bloody hill.
But once at top i was fine and off. I do love this part of course and i ran smiling and happy not seeing another soul for about 4 miles when i came across couple campers out on hillside who'd just woken up, looked out tent and thought better off it.
I got to BoO bang on time Nick had predicted and he was ready to run with me. This part was new to him so it was nice to show him the sights and Murdo's hill (100k) point of race. Took quick pic there and enjoyed the downhill passing some walkers on way who were all very cheery despite the brutal weather. Nick ran with me til start of Rannoch Moor then headed back to car to drive to Glencoe. Rannoch Moor isn't my most favourite part of course, i find it bleak and sore on feet. This time though i felt great! The Kanadias did a great job and my feet felt fine even with the blisters (good old compeed) passed a few walkers but mainly coming towards me and everyone was cheerful and said hello.
As i ran across the moor getting battered with rain, wind, sleet and hail i embraced every step and was actually enjoying it! But i made decision that i was going to stop at Kinlochleven. Not because i was tired or anything, i felt great and knew i could easily run to Fort William. Nick had driven from Lincoln on Saturday to support me, had then driven to FW, then me back to Tyndrum in morning and was supporting me all way back up up there. He was then heading back to Lincoln as he was working the next day. I thought that keeping him out there for 3 hours longer would serve neither of us any purpose. Again i got to Glencoe bang on when Nick predicted and i jumped in car for quick cup tea, told Nick my plans and although he protested he knew my mind was made up. 4 minutes later i was back out running down towards Kingshouse with big fuck off hailtstones in my face and winds trying to blow me sideways.
As i ran the route from Kingshouse towards Alntfaedh i was just about to run past a walker and i said "Morning!" when he screamed like a girl and threw his arms in air. lol, i apologised for scaring him and he laughed and said he hadn't expected anyone passing him especially in this weather. He was chewing on a full block of cheese and had a big hairy beard, mistook him for Richie for a mo ;)
I got to bottom of devil and remembered with a smile the last time I'd been there, doing my up n over day. I headed off feeling strong and was even running the runnable parts. Felt like i got to top in good time and it started snowing and blowing a gale by time i got to summit. I'd got sunburnt and had worn a vest for Fling the day before for goodness sake. 
Nick said he'd run out to meet me and he appeared about a mile from KL, he'd fallen asleep in car which only confirmed I'd made correct decision to stop. I was singing when he met me and carried on singing til we got to car park. I felt totally elated and still had plenty energy left should i have needed it for a further 13miles.
82miles done in 2 days. I felt great on the second run, despite the crappy weather.
Then it was back in car, back to Fort William to get cleaned up & changed then head back down. Ian had said he'd meet us in Glasgow so Nick didn't have to drop me off in Edinburgh and it saved him bit more time off his journey.
I'm am so lucky and so blessed to have such good friends. How many people would put themselves out like that? I have an amazing crew.
Tuesday, 30 April 2013
Highland Fling
This was my 4th Fling this weekend. 4th! I've only finished the damn thing once though.
My first Fling was very special in so many ways but I've already blogged about that. 2nd i fell once early on the again a mile from BeinGlas. I thought i'd done some real damage and pulled out there. Last yr i felt great for first 15miles then started to feel crap. Coming across poor Ellen lying with broken shoulder in Forest near Rowardennan confirmed another Fling DNF. Again, it's there in my blogs.
But things were being sent to test me before getting anywhere near the race. I originally had planned to run with my whwrace crew. Susan & Nick. But Susan got injured, then Nick did too. And Ian had football so i had to change plans around a bit. Nick told me he was still coming to support me, which is quite incredible considering he lives in blooming Lincoln.
So this year was going to be different, i was getting to end if i had to bloody crawl there. Training has been going well and i was confident, but you never really know whats going to happen on the day. We arrived in Tyndrum the night before and had much fun meeting up with all the usual suspects. I slept really well and was raring to go by time 6am came around, which for me is a perfect race start time. Quick photo call with club mates and we were good to go.
I had specific instructions from Ian and was determined not to mess things up. Bit difficult reeling it in now that first section has been upgraded so much, had to keep pulling self back so as not to suffer later.I loved that so many good friends were marshaling, i got kiss off both George & Karen at Beech Tree then Neil & Caroline at Drymen, love it. Puts proper spring in step that does.
Got to top of conic and much to my surprise i also found Ian. Quick chat/kiss and i was off back down. Plenty people passing me taking advantage of upgraded path but i was being mindful of my quads for latter stages.
David caught me here and we ran into Balamaha together and then headed to toilets. I was in and out there and on my way again.Not long after coming off the first climb after Balmaha a relay runner passed me rather speedily. He then proceeded to run towards guy in front and can only describe it as manhandled him out way! When guy protested the relay runner shouted "I'm in a race mate" guy responded "aye, so am i!" how rude!
yeah you're in race but a mere 12miles compared to the 53 we were doing it's fucking rude to do that. Rest of relay runners were great btw. whoever you were, hang you re head in shame, doubt you'll be reading this though, guessing us Ultra runners aren't important enough.
Arrived at Rowardennan bang on schedule and after lovely hug from Fiona R i was off again. Arrived at Inversnaid again bang on time again. More kisses and hugs from Karen & George and off i go again.
I struggled this section, lots of people were passing me here. Not sure if it was because i was slowing down or if i was being sensible still. There is so much jumping off rocks and trees here that i was ever mindful of my ankle problems. Every time i jumped off a rock, cause lets face it there is no choice here, i felt crunching. I was probably over paranoid but after issues I've had i didn't care. So i took it easy and i calmed down and let people pass.
Which meant i came into Beinglas feeling good. Dropbag here had a bottle irn bru, can red bull and a miniature of vodka. Helen Munro was much amused (thanks for pic) and i took that and took off. Took slug of redbull and poured vodka in then called Ian to let him know where i was. I was around 30mins behind schedule here and was worried it had all gone pear shaped.
Not so said he, you've got 2.5hours to get to end, you CAN do this. You know what?after that phone call i knew I'd put everything i had left.I also txt Nick to let him know my time. I came across Duncan McGoohan about mile from Beinglas (he was everywhere!) and he kindly took my empty can and off i went. Just after Derry Darroch i came back onto trail then came a cropper, tripping on smallest stone. Smashed knee hard and landed in pile of cow poo.
Lay there shouting FUCK. Hurt my elbow which was bleeding but my knee was really hurting. Oh well, not lot i could do except pull self up and get on with last 9 miles eh?
In fact it probably spurred me on. I started seeing people in distance and targeting them, passing them and setting new targets. I ran through Cow poo alley as others were tip toeing round edge, fuck it, i'd already been lying in it did it matter if it got all over my shoes?
Got to Crianlarich and had forgotten Gavin was going to be there, another huge hug and i was on way up into forrest. Another mile on who should appear but saint Nick!
Now i knew he was coming but i had expected him around the wigwams perhaps, he was at bottom of hill 5 miles out and when i spotted him to took off up hill. I soon caught him though ;)
we carried on picking people off and chatting away happily. By wigwams i was bursting and had to run to loo and as i came out Keith Ainslie passed me, i was suprised and told him i thought he'd be way ahead of me, he told me he'd been chasing me since Beinglas!
Told Ian this yesterday and he told me i couldve got sub11 if i'd not gone, told me i shouldve peed myself and that i'd be getting cleaned up at end anyway! lol. No race is worth that much, sorry!
So no i didn't sub11, but i was very happy indeed with 11.05 which was a PB by a about a minute.Had few glasses of red at finish and quick catch up wth everyone. Delighted to find out my clubmate Fionna came 2nd, so delighted for her, only got beaten my a minute too! We got 1st ladies team too as well as mixed team prize. Not bad for wee club - go Harmeny! Sean cleaned me up at end and made me scream a bit but i was ok really.
I'd told Nick not to let me stay too long at end (no willpower me) as we(he!) had to drive to Fort William, get cleaned up, food and sleep to start all over again in morning in Tyndrum but thats another blog. We headed off still meeting loads folk and hugging/ catching up as we headed to car, Nick joked that it's like walking along road with Julia Roberts. Shame he's no George Clooney ;)
Got to Fort William and all i could think about was a hot bath. Checked into my room to find a shower. I actually nearly cried, i also swore. Then i found out i only had 2 towels. ffs, 2 people were originally booked in this room.
towels? Oh, and no hairdryer> wtf. Travelodge fail.
I txt Nick to say was ready and off we went for a massive Indian meal and few more glasses red and i was tucked up in bed by 10.30 ready to face next days challenge.
another blog to follow.
My first Fling was very special in so many ways but I've already blogged about that. 2nd i fell once early on the again a mile from BeinGlas. I thought i'd done some real damage and pulled out there. Last yr i felt great for first 15miles then started to feel crap. Coming across poor Ellen lying with broken shoulder in Forest near Rowardennan confirmed another Fling DNF. Again, it's there in my blogs.
But things were being sent to test me before getting anywhere near the race. I originally had planned to run with my whwrace crew. Susan & Nick. But Susan got injured, then Nick did too. And Ian had football so i had to change plans around a bit. Nick told me he was still coming to support me, which is quite incredible considering he lives in blooming Lincoln.
So this year was going to be different, i was getting to end if i had to bloody crawl there. Training has been going well and i was confident, but you never really know whats going to happen on the day. We arrived in Tyndrum the night before and had much fun meeting up with all the usual suspects. I slept really well and was raring to go by time 6am came around, which for me is a perfect race start time. Quick photo call with club mates and we were good to go.
I had specific instructions from Ian and was determined not to mess things up. Bit difficult reeling it in now that first section has been upgraded so much, had to keep pulling self back so as not to suffer later.I loved that so many good friends were marshaling, i got kiss off both George & Karen at Beech Tree then Neil & Caroline at Drymen, love it. Puts proper spring in step that does.
Got to top of conic and much to my surprise i also found Ian. Quick chat/kiss and i was off back down. Plenty people passing me taking advantage of upgraded path but i was being mindful of my quads for latter stages.
David caught me here and we ran into Balamaha together and then headed to toilets. I was in and out there and on my way again.Not long after coming off the first climb after Balmaha a relay runner passed me rather speedily. He then proceeded to run towards guy in front and can only describe it as manhandled him out way! When guy protested the relay runner shouted "I'm in a race mate" guy responded "aye, so am i!" how rude! yeah you're in race but a mere 12miles compared to the 53 we were doing it's fucking rude to do that. Rest of relay runners were great btw. whoever you were, hang you re head in shame, doubt you'll be reading this though, guessing us Ultra runners aren't important enough.
I struggled this section, lots of people were passing me here. Not sure if it was because i was slowing down or if i was being sensible still. There is so much jumping off rocks and trees here that i was ever mindful of my ankle problems. Every time i jumped off a rock, cause lets face it there is no choice here, i felt crunching. I was probably over paranoid but after issues I've had i didn't care. So i took it easy and i calmed down and let people pass.
Which meant i came into Beinglas feeling good. Dropbag here had a bottle irn bru, can red bull and a miniature of vodka. Helen Munro was much amused (thanks for pic) and i took that and took off. Took slug of redbull and poured vodka in then called Ian to let him know where i was. I was around 30mins behind schedule here and was worried it had all gone pear shaped. Not so said he, you've got 2.5hours to get to end, you CAN do this. You know what?after that phone call i knew I'd put everything i had left.I also txt Nick to let him know my time. I came across Duncan McGoohan about mile from Beinglas (he was everywhere!) and he kindly took my empty can and off i went. Just after Derry Darroch i came back onto trail then came a cropper, tripping on smallest stone. Smashed knee hard and landed in pile of cow poo.
Lay there shouting FUCK. Hurt my elbow which was bleeding but my knee was really hurting. Oh well, not lot i could do except pull self up and get on with last 9 miles eh? 
In fact it probably spurred me on. I started seeing people in distance and targeting them, passing them and setting new targets. I ran through Cow poo alley as others were tip toeing round edge, fuck it, i'd already been lying in it did it matter if it got all over my shoes? Got to Crianlarich and had forgotten Gavin was going to be there, another huge hug and i was on way up into forrest. Another mile on who should appear but saint Nick!
Now i knew he was coming but i had expected him around the wigwams perhaps, he was at bottom of hill 5 miles out and when i spotted him to took off up hill. I soon caught him though ;)
we carried on picking people off and chatting away happily. By wigwams i was bursting and had to run to loo and as i came out Keith Ainslie passed me, i was suprised and told him i thought he'd be way ahead of me, he told me he'd been chasing me since Beinglas!
Told Ian this yesterday and he told me i couldve got sub11 if i'd not gone, told me i shouldve peed myself and that i'd be getting cleaned up at end anyway! lol. No race is worth that much, sorry!
I'd told Nick not to let me stay too long at end (no willpower me) as we(he!) had to drive to Fort William, get cleaned up, food and sleep to start all over again in morning in Tyndrum but thats another blog. We headed off still meeting loads folk and hugging/ catching up as we headed to car, Nick joked that it's like walking along road with Julia Roberts. Shame he's no George Clooney ;)
Got to Fort William and all i could think about was a hot bath. Checked into my room to find a shower. I actually nearly cried, i also swore. Then i found out i only had 2 towels. ffs, 2 people were originally booked in this room.
towels? Oh, and no hairdryer> wtf. Travelodge fail.
I txt Nick to say was ready and off we went for a massive Indian meal and few more glasses red and i was tucked up in bed by 10.30 ready to face next days challenge.
another blog to follow.
Monday, 1 April 2013
No hiding place
This year has always been about quality over quantity. Getting stronger not and not worrying over mileage, or what other people are doing.
Ian set me plan at start of year and i added to it by getting Donnie as my PT to strengthen me up. First race of year was day after D33 which we were marshalling at. we had original plans to stay whole weekend but Ian wouldnt have seen his boys and we decided to race on Sunday after being offered places in the Kilomathon. After having a great 10mile training run the previous Sunday where i managed to beat Ian he set me a mission. He said i had 2 objectives, one was to beat him, other was to get under and hour (its 13.1K) have to say i was quite confident but it was big fat fail on both counts. Clearly Ian was having an off day previous Sunday and i just couldn't hang onto him, he did indeed get under the hour but i snuck over it in 1.02. Was bit disapointed with that and could blame long day standing around in freezing cold and not getting home til late but i wont. on a more postive note i was 1stFV and 134th overall out of 800finishers so quite high up in field. you can only race who's there an all that..
Seeing Donnie once a week and i usually leave studio with jelly legs, if i swear at him he gives me extra to do and his counting is sometimes dubious when he says, 5 secs to go, then 5 secs later says 5 secs to go but i always seem to forgive him by the end of the hour. Probably too tired to argue by then mind you.
Yesterday was Perth50k although it's not my favourite terrain i do love this race. It's very well organised (thanks to Adrian and his team) and it's super social. With me being a social butterfly it's my kinda race. The race is 1.48mile loop of North Inch Park in Perth, this means 21 loops which sounds mind numbingly awful but because we get to see the vast support crews 21times it makes for fun running. If you're daft enough call that kind of thing fun.
I'd ordered new shoes last week and they arrived on Thu which gave me time to give them a couple of miles test, you know what they say, never run in anything new.....
Ian had set me an objective again and this time i was determined not to let him down. Or myself for that matter. The quest was for sub4.30 this would mean an 8 min pb for me but i thought it was achievable and i was confident. I pondered about wearing garmin or not and decided against, it can be as much as a hindrince to me as a help during races sometimes, guess it depends on your mood but if my pace drops below what i'm aiming for it can knock me, not always. It can spur me on too but i decided against wearing it. We see the clock every 1.48miles anyway so no big deal.
It was pretty damn baltic when we arrived and i had planned on running in my vest, i pondered about changing but wasnt keen then Debbie said she had arm warmers that i could borrow. I told her i'd always laughed at them thinking they were ridiculous and she said i'd laugh no more. Have to say they were proper warm n toasty and it meant i could keep my precious vest on. Soon enough we were being called for race briefing and we lined up at the side to make sure we didnt interupt the 100k runners who'd set off at 7am. I set off a bit too quick, i knew that but i was trying to warm up my frozen toes, i knew i was going too fast as i could see Sharon Law ahead for the whole first lap lol was on 3rd lap i think before i actually started to defrost.
Thing about this race is that there's no hiding place, you can pretty much see start/finish area from wherever you are and there are always other runners around. Ian was helping out doing the timings so no hiding from him either, who needs garmins with all that going on! I'd been told what lap pace to aim for so i just ran as steady as i could and kept eye on clock every lap. Support was brilliant, my fellow racers were fab and encouraging. To see these guys zip past you doing the 100k as if they're out on an easy jog is really quite inspiring, and so many say *well done, doing great, etc* as they pass. It was like a who's who of the Ultra world, great to see so many familiar faces and even better to see how well they were all doing. I was truly inspired. My fab PT Donnie was doing his 1st 100k and first road race and was passing me making it look far too bloody easy!
On saturday Fiona posted on her facebook page saying " if you're struggling, slap a stupid grin on your face and do a lap for me" so when i felt the going getting tough thats what i did. My last 3 laps were for you. On my penultimate lap Marco passed me and said it was his too, i tried to keep him in my sights but he soon long gone even though he'd been racing since 7am and was doing the 100k!
I had a bit of a moment when going through start/finish and someone shouted 2 more to go! I shouted back NO, one i said, and they repeated 2. Luckily Ian was right at funnel and shouted last one Sandra! And even though i'd counted them myself i was bit freaked out. What if i'd miscounted, what if Ian meant i had one more after that. aaargh. Luckily Karen and George saved the day by cycling round to tell me i WAS on my last lap, phew, i wasn't going mad. Not sure how i'd have coped having to do another after thinking i was done.
I crossed the line in 4hrs 26mins and 50seconds. splits and results from both races here
results Job done.
this pic wasnt the end, JohnK took it probably halfway though, think i was trying to fly instead of run.
Have to say i was a bit teary at end. I never stopped once. Not for toilet break, not for drink, not once. I've never even done that in a marathon, i've always stopped at water stations and drank a bit/walked bit. So to do 31miles without so much as a teeny break i was well chuffed. I'm getting stronger and my training is starting to pay off. Thanks to my fabulous coach Ian for devising my plan and for making me believe and to my PT Donnie for making me stronger.
Talking of Donnie, he practices what he preaches and came 3rd. And Team Scotland retained the Anglo Celtic plate, superb work from Marco (5th) Paul (7th &also doing his 1st 100k!) great work all round everyone.
During race i noticed my right arm was really sore, i tried shaking it out but nothing seemed to be working, It was odd soreness, from my elbow up to my shoulder, never had it before and mentioning to Debs & Marco after race they both said they've also suffered from it. After posting on facebook this morning it seems i'm not only one either. how very odd. Does anyone know why? Had uncomfortable nights sleep because of it but on plus side my legs are ok, its either that or body can only cope with one thing at a time! Maybe the DOMS will kick in tomorrow.
So i ended up with 12min pb which i'm very happy with. I reckon the secret is borrowing an item of clothing from the fabulous Debs, now if only i could borrow her legs next time.....
Ian set me plan at start of year and i added to it by getting Donnie as my PT to strengthen me up. First race of year was day after D33 which we were marshalling at. we had original plans to stay whole weekend but Ian wouldnt have seen his boys and we decided to race on Sunday after being offered places in the Kilomathon. After having a great 10mile training run the previous Sunday where i managed to beat Ian he set me a mission. He said i had 2 objectives, one was to beat him, other was to get under and hour (its 13.1K) have to say i was quite confident but it was big fat fail on both counts. Clearly Ian was having an off day previous Sunday and i just couldn't hang onto him, he did indeed get under the hour but i snuck over it in 1.02. Was bit disapointed with that and could blame long day standing around in freezing cold and not getting home til late but i wont. on a more postive note i was 1stFV and 134th overall out of 800finishers so quite high up in field. you can only race who's there an all that..
Seeing Donnie once a week and i usually leave studio with jelly legs, if i swear at him he gives me extra to do and his counting is sometimes dubious when he says, 5 secs to go, then 5 secs later says 5 secs to go but i always seem to forgive him by the end of the hour. Probably too tired to argue by then mind you.
Yesterday was Perth50k although it's not my favourite terrain i do love this race. It's very well organised (thanks to Adrian and his team) and it's super social. With me being a social butterfly it's my kinda race. The race is 1.48mile loop of North Inch Park in Perth, this means 21 loops which sounds mind numbingly awful but because we get to see the vast support crews 21times it makes for fun running. If you're daft enough call that kind of thing fun.
I'd ordered new shoes last week and they arrived on Thu which gave me time to give them a couple of miles test, you know what they say, never run in anything new.....
Ian had set me an objective again and this time i was determined not to let him down. Or myself for that matter. The quest was for sub4.30 this would mean an 8 min pb for me but i thought it was achievable and i was confident. I pondered about wearing garmin or not and decided against, it can be as much as a hindrince to me as a help during races sometimes, guess it depends on your mood but if my pace drops below what i'm aiming for it can knock me, not always. It can spur me on too but i decided against wearing it. We see the clock every 1.48miles anyway so no big deal.
It was pretty damn baltic when we arrived and i had planned on running in my vest, i pondered about changing but wasnt keen then Debbie said she had arm warmers that i could borrow. I told her i'd always laughed at them thinking they were ridiculous and she said i'd laugh no more. Have to say they were proper warm n toasty and it meant i could keep my precious vest on. Soon enough we were being called for race briefing and we lined up at the side to make sure we didnt interupt the 100k runners who'd set off at 7am. I set off a bit too quick, i knew that but i was trying to warm up my frozen toes, i knew i was going too fast as i could see Sharon Law ahead for the whole first lap lol was on 3rd lap i think before i actually started to defrost.
Thing about this race is that there's no hiding place, you can pretty much see start/finish area from wherever you are and there are always other runners around. Ian was helping out doing the timings so no hiding from him either, who needs garmins with all that going on! I'd been told what lap pace to aim for so i just ran as steady as i could and kept eye on clock every lap. Support was brilliant, my fellow racers were fab and encouraging. To see these guys zip past you doing the 100k as if they're out on an easy jog is really quite inspiring, and so many say *well done, doing great, etc* as they pass. It was like a who's who of the Ultra world, great to see so many familiar faces and even better to see how well they were all doing. I was truly inspired. My fab PT Donnie was doing his 1st 100k and first road race and was passing me making it look far too bloody easy!
On saturday Fiona posted on her facebook page saying " if you're struggling, slap a stupid grin on your face and do a lap for me" so when i felt the going getting tough thats what i did. My last 3 laps were for you. On my penultimate lap Marco passed me and said it was his too, i tried to keep him in my sights but he soon long gone even though he'd been racing since 7am and was doing the 100k!
I had a bit of a moment when going through start/finish and someone shouted 2 more to go! I shouted back NO, one i said, and they repeated 2. Luckily Ian was right at funnel and shouted last one Sandra! And even though i'd counted them myself i was bit freaked out. What if i'd miscounted, what if Ian meant i had one more after that. aaargh. Luckily Karen and George saved the day by cycling round to tell me i WAS on my last lap, phew, i wasn't going mad. Not sure how i'd have coped having to do another after thinking i was done.
I crossed the line in 4hrs 26mins and 50seconds. splits and results from both races here
results Job done.
Have to say i was a bit teary at end. I never stopped once. Not for toilet break, not for drink, not once. I've never even done that in a marathon, i've always stopped at water stations and drank a bit/walked bit. So to do 31miles without so much as a teeny break i was well chuffed. I'm getting stronger and my training is starting to pay off. Thanks to my fabulous coach Ian for devising my plan and for making me believe and to my PT Donnie for making me stronger.
Talking of Donnie, he practices what he preaches and came 3rd. And Team Scotland retained the Anglo Celtic plate, superb work from Marco (5th) Paul (7th &also doing his 1st 100k!) great work all round everyone. During race i noticed my right arm was really sore, i tried shaking it out but nothing seemed to be working, It was odd soreness, from my elbow up to my shoulder, never had it before and mentioning to Debs & Marco after race they both said they've also suffered from it. After posting on facebook this morning it seems i'm not only one either. how very odd. Does anyone know why? Had uncomfortable nights sleep because of it but on plus side my legs are ok, its either that or body can only cope with one thing at a time! Maybe the DOMS will kick in tomorrow.
So i ended up with 12min pb which i'm very happy with. I reckon the secret is borrowing an item of clothing from the fabulous Debs, now if only i could borrow her legs next time.....
Monday, 4 March 2013
Making friends with the Devil
Oh dear, i promised JohnK I'd keep my blog updated but that's been a big fat fail.
Last blog was in January, woops. Must try harder. But hey, at least i filled in my profile, whats your excuse?
As i mentioned in last blog, this year was all about quality. About tweaking the training to avoid the pitfalls of my well documented ankle failure of last 2 years. I did my 14 day break and even though i was sceptical and had to be coerced into it i actually settled down and enjoyed the rest. Probably a bit too much, what i found most odd was that i was eating more. Was it just boredom i wonder? I'm quite good at kicking back when i need to and that's exactly what i did.
I had a girly Spa break with Louise which was just what the doctor ordered, and for rest of time i embraced my laziness gene and vegged out big time. And pigged out too.
All my long runs have been planned out up until race day, as are certain races. Ian sits down with me on a Sunday and we discuss what sessions we are planning for that week. Actually, scrap that, Ian tells me what sessions are planned.
After seeing on Facebook that Donny Campbell now has a studio in Edinburgh, i decided to get myself a personal trainer. Ian does great job as my coach but i wanted something to compliment the running and training plan he'd set and who better than an Ultra running PT? (bloody good one at that) I guess a normal PT wouldn't quite "get" Ultra running and i know whatever stuff i do with Donny will only compliment what i'm already doing and what plan Ian had set for me.
So my first run back was gentle 4 mile run to work followed by a gentle 4 miles home. Gentle it may have been, but by the next day i was in 50shades of pain with DOMS. wtf! 8 miles and i was busted, not great and i was not happy bunny. I spent most of December doing 8 miles before i even got to work, how quickly my legs had forgotten.
That night i had first interval session too, just to add to the pain. Surprisingly this went really well, and my legs were ok next day. Talk about confused. Weekend saw the first long run, i headed up the Pentlands and back down on Water Of Leith, then went to Club Ceilidh that night. Legs were fine next day. hurrah. My glee was short lived as i woke up Monday and assumed someone had injected cement into my veins overnight. *sigh*
Ian had told me to run hard home. I tried to run hard home and i actually nearly ended up crying. I cursed Ian, i cursed the 2 week break and i cursed my stupid stupid legs and stupid stupid DOMS. Txt Ian when got home saying as much and he basically told me to dry my eyes and calm down. lol, full of sympathy then. NOT.
Fast forward 6 weeks and all is good. My weeks are filled with quality running and the mileage is clocking up without me trying really. I'm feeling strong and feel like its all coming together.
Saturday was a huge confidence boost to me. Way back in January when we were devising my plan Ian had said he wanted me to run from Kinghouse to Kinlochleven, then back, then back.
Yeah, i know, i thought that too.
This was a specific tester run, my weakened ankles most definitely suffer on the downhill sections. Ups are no problem really, but downhill is where i start having issues. . I'd done quite a few long runs that consisted of lots of ups & downs and the DOMS had abated and the ankles ok. So far, so good. This was different kettle fish though. The the highest point of WHW, 4 times. The descent into KL is a killer. The town appears, then disappears like a mirage teasing you and dashing your hopes as you think you're getting that little bit closer only to discover theres still 2 miles to go. It's safe to say i was more than nervous about this run. This was basically going to decide on whether i was going to race this year or not. *gulp*
I got dropped off as at the road where you rejoin trail section just past Kingshouse so had 2.5mile warm up before hitting Devil. Off i went full off beans marvelling at how lucky we had been with the weather. I've had some proper horrendous weather on that stretch before which nearly broke me.
Said hello & goodbye to Ian who was busy making videos on his new iphone and off i went on first trip up Devils staircase. Amazing how "easy" it can feel on fresh legs and i was even running up bits. About 80mins later i appeared at the Ice Factory as planned, quick toilet stop and off i went on the return leg. Here i am arriving first time >>
Going back on that route hurts! it's basically a 4 mile climb which never seems to end, but end it did and i was soon heading back down the Devil in the sunshine. This time i stopped and refilled bottle at AltnaFeadh where Ian had parked and set off again minutes later. Half the job done, lets do it all again.
I'd passed 2 blokes on way down and as i passed them again on way back up i was told i was "as daft as a brush" I'll take that as a compliment thanks. Up i went again and although it felt harder than first time i was still running up wee flatter sections. Before too long i was at top for 3rd time and began my descent again.
This time i was bit faster :) I arrived at Ice Factory to find Ian chatting to the legend that is Pete Duggan, quick stop for pic and some water and off i went again. >>>
Last time.
I was determined not to be slower and attacked hills where i could, running as much as possbily could. Pete soon caught me and he told me that whole section was totally run able and that he'd ran it one day, all of it, not walking a step. I told him i was a mere mortal and not a machine like him and that i would indeed be walking bits.And with ringing in his ears off he skipped up the hill. As i approached last climb back up to Devil i spotted a figure at top of hill, they seemed to be just watching and not descending at all, most odd. Turn out it was Ian, most odd indeed ;) He decided to test out his knee and climb to top and meet me.
He told me to head off down and that he'd get me back at where I'd started back at road up from Kingshouse so off i went. Was about halfway down when i suddenly heard footsteps behind me, it freaked me out and i turned round to find Ian hurtling down hill! So much for his sore knee. He said he felt ok so just kept going. Hoping this is him on road to recovery. He's not had it easy of late.
I left him at AltnaFeadh and ran back along the last 2.5miles to finish where i started. I was singing at top of my voice and loving it, i felt strong and felt so incredibly happy to be there. 28.3miles. Job Done. I nailed it.
Ian as usual did a superb of supporting me, i certainly couldn't do all that without him.
oh, and i wore my dirty girl gaiters for first time, many thanks to ultramarathonrunningstore who sent me a pair at Christmas. they were ace! so many times i've had to stop to empty stones out my shoes, no problems at all this time and it was rockiest part of course.
here's me at end
Next day i expected to be broken, i had made half promises to be up at Meadows supporting the Half/Marathon but actually thought I'd wake up with usual cement feeling. I didn't. I woke up feeling good. Ian decided he wanted to test his knee out so i joined him for a "recovery" run. None of my recovery runs have been just over 8mm, this one was. 3.5miles. crikey.
What on earth?
I stayed in my running gear and packed back and off we went to Meadows to cheer folk on, Ian went off to see his boys and i dotted around course popping up all over place and clocked up another 2.5miles at a far more sedate pace. Still my legs were at peace.
I half expected to wake up this morning and suffer the consequences. But no, I'm fine. 6.5 miles before 6.30am, and it's even half light. Headtorch will soon be left at home for my morning runs as spring sneaks upon us.
It's all coming together.
Last blog was in January, woops. Must try harder. But hey, at least i filled in my profile, whats your excuse?
As i mentioned in last blog, this year was all about quality. About tweaking the training to avoid the pitfalls of my well documented ankle failure of last 2 years. I did my 14 day break and even though i was sceptical and had to be coerced into it i actually settled down and enjoyed the rest. Probably a bit too much, what i found most odd was that i was eating more. Was it just boredom i wonder? I'm quite good at kicking back when i need to and that's exactly what i did.
I had a girly Spa break with Louise which was just what the doctor ordered, and for rest of time i embraced my laziness gene and vegged out big time. And pigged out too.
All my long runs have been planned out up until race day, as are certain races. Ian sits down with me on a Sunday and we discuss what sessions we are planning for that week. Actually, scrap that, Ian tells me what sessions are planned.
After seeing on Facebook that Donny Campbell now has a studio in Edinburgh, i decided to get myself a personal trainer. Ian does great job as my coach but i wanted something to compliment the running and training plan he'd set and who better than an Ultra running PT? (bloody good one at that) I guess a normal PT wouldn't quite "get" Ultra running and i know whatever stuff i do with Donny will only compliment what i'm already doing and what plan Ian had set for me.
So my first run back was gentle 4 mile run to work followed by a gentle 4 miles home. Gentle it may have been, but by the next day i was in 50shades of pain with DOMS. wtf! 8 miles and i was busted, not great and i was not happy bunny. I spent most of December doing 8 miles before i even got to work, how quickly my legs had forgotten.
That night i had first interval session too, just to add to the pain. Surprisingly this went really well, and my legs were ok next day. Talk about confused. Weekend saw the first long run, i headed up the Pentlands and back down on Water Of Leith, then went to Club Ceilidh that night. Legs were fine next day. hurrah. My glee was short lived as i woke up Monday and assumed someone had injected cement into my veins overnight. *sigh*
Ian had told me to run hard home. I tried to run hard home and i actually nearly ended up crying. I cursed Ian, i cursed the 2 week break and i cursed my stupid stupid legs and stupid stupid DOMS. Txt Ian when got home saying as much and he basically told me to dry my eyes and calm down. lol, full of sympathy then. NOT.
Fast forward 6 weeks and all is good. My weeks are filled with quality running and the mileage is clocking up without me trying really. I'm feeling strong and feel like its all coming together.
Saturday was a huge confidence boost to me. Way back in January when we were devising my plan Ian had said he wanted me to run from Kinghouse to Kinlochleven, then back, then back.
Yeah, i know, i thought that too.
This was a specific tester run, my weakened ankles most definitely suffer on the downhill sections. Ups are no problem really, but downhill is where i start having issues. . I'd done quite a few long runs that consisted of lots of ups & downs and the DOMS had abated and the ankles ok. So far, so good. This was different kettle fish though. The the highest point of WHW, 4 times. The descent into KL is a killer. The town appears, then disappears like a mirage teasing you and dashing your hopes as you think you're getting that little bit closer only to discover theres still 2 miles to go. It's safe to say i was more than nervous about this run. This was basically going to decide on whether i was going to race this year or not. *gulp* I got dropped off as at the road where you rejoin trail section just past Kingshouse so had 2.5mile warm up before hitting Devil. Off i went full off beans marvelling at how lucky we had been with the weather. I've had some proper horrendous weather on that stretch before which nearly broke me.
Going back on that route hurts! it's basically a 4 mile climb which never seems to end, but end it did and i was soon heading back down the Devil in the sunshine. This time i stopped and refilled bottle at AltnaFeadh where Ian had parked and set off again minutes later. Half the job done, lets do it all again.I'd passed 2 blokes on way down and as i passed them again on way back up i was told i was "as daft as a brush" I'll take that as a compliment thanks. Up i went again and although it felt harder than first time i was still running up wee flatter sections. Before too long i was at top for 3rd time and began my descent again.
This time i was bit faster :) I arrived at Ice Factory to find Ian chatting to the legend that is Pete Duggan, quick stop for pic and some water and off i went again. >>>Last time.
I was determined not to be slower and attacked hills where i could, running as much as possbily could. Pete soon caught me and he told me that whole section was totally run able and that he'd ran it one day, all of it, not walking a step. I told him i was a mere mortal and not a machine like him and that i would indeed be walking bits.And with ringing in his ears off he skipped up the hill. As i approached last climb back up to Devil i spotted a figure at top of hill, they seemed to be just watching and not descending at all, most odd. Turn out it was Ian, most odd indeed ;) He decided to test out his knee and climb to top and meet me.
He told me to head off down and that he'd get me back at where I'd started back at road up from Kingshouse so off i went. Was about halfway down when i suddenly heard footsteps behind me, it freaked me out and i turned round to find Ian hurtling down hill! So much for his sore knee. He said he felt ok so just kept going. Hoping this is him on road to recovery. He's not had it easy of late.
I left him at AltnaFeadh and ran back along the last 2.5miles to finish where i started. I was singing at top of my voice and loving it, i felt strong and felt so incredibly happy to be there. 28.3miles. Job Done. I nailed it.
Ian as usual did a superb of supporting me, i certainly couldn't do all that without him.
oh, and i wore my dirty girl gaiters for first time, many thanks to ultramarathonrunningstore who sent me a pair at Christmas. they were ace! so many times i've had to stop to empty stones out my shoes, no problems at all this time and it was rockiest part of course.
here's me at end Next day i expected to be broken, i had made half promises to be up at Meadows supporting the Half/Marathon but actually thought I'd wake up with usual cement feeling. I didn't. I woke up feeling good. Ian decided he wanted to test his knee out so i joined him for a "recovery" run. None of my recovery runs have been just over 8mm, this one was. 3.5miles. crikey.
What on earth?
I stayed in my running gear and packed back and off we went to Meadows to cheer folk on, Ian went off to see his boys and i dotted around course popping up all over place and clocked up another 2.5miles at a far more sedate pace. Still my legs were at peace.
I half expected to wake up this morning and suffer the consequences. But no, I'm fine. 6.5 miles before 6.30am, and it's even half light. Headtorch will soon be left at home for my morning runs as spring sneaks upon us.
It's all coming together.
Friday, 4 January 2013
Quality V's Quantity
So here is my review of the 2012. Not my best year running wise, or was it?
In January i sat down with Ian and we drew up a plan for my West Highland way training. To be honest it didn't vary much from the previous year but looking back that's quite possibly where we made a mistake. Not really intending on doing same this year but more on that later.
The first few months were great, i was running well and managed to PB in 10k & Half Marathon. Looking back at my training log i was also doing cross training, mainly weights on bosu ball with aim to strenghten legs & ankles. But i didn't keep it up, there is no record from March onwards and again this was a mistake i shouldn't have let happen.
fling
I did my double run in May on hottest weekend of year. West Coast Scotland was hottest place in uk! unheard of. I loved it actually, Ian made sure he met me plenty and made sure he topped up my suntan lotion. Paul Houston joined me for 2nd day and we had unexpected company of Antonia as we climbed out of BoO. Felt pretty good after that double run, even though i'd fell and proper bashed knee.
fun in the sun
I'm trying not to dwell on my failure on WHWrace, again i blogged about it and at the time there was little i could do. Another DNF.
WHW
So what to do now? I had made no plans for after the race, except to rest. So i suggested to Susan about doing Clyde Stride and so glad i did. We had great day out (again Susan might say different!) and i was glad to be back on the lovely course having got hopelessly lost first year i did it. I love running with Susan, she can kick my arse and put me to shame on anything under Ultra distance for sure but with Ultras i can pull her on and i really enjoy it.
Clyde
Supporting Ian on the Devil was interesting to say the least lol Devilish fun
I was still feeling like my year had not lot to show for my training i felt i'd put in though. So Glenmore was next challenge. Everyone who'd ran it last yr had raved about it. I'd never ran a timed race so relied on Ian's guidance as to what was achievable. He told me that i should set myself a target of 100k so that was where my head was at.
No DNF or failures this time. I led the ladies race from start to finish and went on to have my first ever win. Quite incredible and a great boost after having felt such a failure for the whole year.
Glenmore
I was disapointed with my performance at Loch Ness Marathon, coming in at 3.49 i ran/walked from mile 18, really struggling on my first Marathon in 2 yrs and longest on road for a long time! Fail.
I had another DNF at Glen Ogle, i picked up a groin injury from about 8 miles in and it wouldn't go so jacked it in by mile12. Ian reckons i couldve run it off but I'm not so sure. Glen Ogle is quite untraily for a trail race and the harder ground was making it all the more painful. I think it's down to having nt done any tarmaccy runs over 8 miles for a very long time. Your body needs to adjust to the terrain you're racing on and if you've got any niggles then it'll just exacerbate things. anyway, another fail.
So when i look back on 2012 i only see one word. And its not win. I am of course delighted beyond belief to be able to have won a race, that's something no one can take away from me ever. I'm just a bit sad that the rest of the year has overshadowed it. But hey, maybe there wouldnt have been a win had i finished all the others? who knows. .
So looking forward. This year is about quality over quantity. I need to start as i mean to go on, carry on with the cross training and not just drop it on days i CBA.
2013 started with 16miles on West Highland Way.
And now I'm in day 3 of 14 of complete rest from running. Its a scary/brave step for me as i run a lot especially during week to/from work, nt long distance but usually twice a day. I've seen what a rest from running can do for people. One of my friends has had 18months off due to injury and has recently PB'd at 5k/10k and 10mile races. Sure she's been cycling like a loon but no running, none. Ian took 3 weeks off towards end Nov and is now reaping the rewards. You'd never see Elite runners do more than one or maybe two marathons a year. Kenyans are best people to take lessons from when it comes to resting. Read running with the Kenyans, quite eye opening.
good read
Then I'll be throwing myself into training with gusto, speed will be first thing to work on.
Let the challenge begin.
Happy New Year.
In January i sat down with Ian and we drew up a plan for my West Highland way training. To be honest it didn't vary much from the previous year but looking back that's quite possibly where we made a mistake. Not really intending on doing same this year but more on that later.
The first few months were great, i was running well and managed to PB in 10k & Half Marathon. Looking back at my training log i was also doing cross training, mainly weights on bosu ball with aim to strenghten legs & ankles. But i didn't keep it up, there is no record from March onwards and again this was a mistake i shouldn't have let happen.
-
I really enjoyed the long training runs i did. One was the the first official whw training run from Balamaha to Inversnaid and back, fab weekend. Ian was training for Cateran s we did 40miler up there too. Also had great run on Devil route with Susan but she might counteract that statement haha.So leading up the the Fling i felt pretty good. With "its a training run" ringing n my ears from Ian i set off feeling fab and ran first section pretty well. Then i started to feel crap
fling
I did my double run in May on hottest weekend of year. West Coast Scotland was hottest place in uk! unheard of. I loved it actually, Ian made sure he met me plenty and made sure he topped up my suntan lotion. Paul Houston joined me for 2nd day and we had unexpected company of Antonia as we climbed out of BoO. Felt pretty good after that double run, even though i'd fell and proper bashed knee.
fun in the sun
I'm trying not to dwell on my failure on WHWrace, again i blogged about it and at the time there was little i could do. Another DNF.
WHW
So what to do now? I had made no plans for after the race, except to rest. So i suggested to Susan about doing Clyde Stride and so glad i did. We had great day out (again Susan might say different!) and i was glad to be back on the lovely course having got hopelessly lost first year i did it. I love running with Susan, she can kick my arse and put me to shame on anything under Ultra distance for sure but with Ultras i can pull her on and i really enjoy it.
Clyde
Supporting Ian on the Devil was interesting to say the least lol Devilish fun
I was still feeling like my year had not lot to show for my training i felt i'd put in though. So Glenmore was next challenge. Everyone who'd ran it last yr had raved about it. I'd never ran a timed race so relied on Ian's guidance as to what was achievable. He told me that i should set myself a target of 100k so that was where my head was at.
No DNF or failures this time. I led the ladies race from start to finish and went on to have my first ever win. Quite incredible and a great boost after having felt such a failure for the whole year.
Glenmore
I was disapointed with my performance at Loch Ness Marathon, coming in at 3.49 i ran/walked from mile 18, really struggling on my first Marathon in 2 yrs and longest on road for a long time! Fail.
I had another DNF at Glen Ogle, i picked up a groin injury from about 8 miles in and it wouldn't go so jacked it in by mile12. Ian reckons i couldve run it off but I'm not so sure. Glen Ogle is quite untraily for a trail race and the harder ground was making it all the more painful. I think it's down to having nt done any tarmaccy runs over 8 miles for a very long time. Your body needs to adjust to the terrain you're racing on and if you've got any niggles then it'll just exacerbate things. anyway, another fail.
So when i look back on 2012 i only see one word. And its not win. I am of course delighted beyond belief to be able to have won a race, that's something no one can take away from me ever. I'm just a bit sad that the rest of the year has overshadowed it. But hey, maybe there wouldnt have been a win had i finished all the others? who knows. .
So looking forward. This year is about quality over quantity. I need to start as i mean to go on, carry on with the cross training and not just drop it on days i CBA.
2013 started with 16miles on West Highland Way.
And now I'm in day 3 of 14 of complete rest from running. Its a scary/brave step for me as i run a lot especially during week to/from work, nt long distance but usually twice a day. I've seen what a rest from running can do for people. One of my friends has had 18months off due to injury and has recently PB'd at 5k/10k and 10mile races. Sure she's been cycling like a loon but no running, none. Ian took 3 weeks off towards end Nov and is now reaping the rewards. You'd never see Elite runners do more than one or maybe two marathons a year. Kenyans are best people to take lessons from when it comes to resting. Read running with the Kenyans, quite eye opening.
good read
Then I'll be throwing myself into training with gusto, speed will be first thing to work on.
Let the challenge begin.
Happy New Year.
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