Day after Christmas

A nice easy 8k. The large amounts of food and goodies had me asleep by 9pm. So a very easy 8k no watch just feeling good and enjoying the overcast day.
More food today with the added glass of wine or beer. Then punish myself with a 20k+ and hills.
Take care

A nice run !

An early start and it was nice and cool. I enjoy a nice cool start because I perspire a lot and on a cool start it takes till 2k before the sweats start but on a hot start oh boy I am drenched by 5k.
Any way a nice easy 22k and it felt good. Pace was 5:20/k but that was more than I hoped for after a alcohol/ running reasearch night with friends.
Take care

Hot but nice !

A couple of days off then a sleep in was just what I needed. For some strange reason I decided at midday yesterday to go out for a run. Another plan that expanded. I only wanted to do about 12k easy and with no water on hand that's about all I can handle before the mouth gets dry. At about 5k I felt good and headed for the hill at the top is the 7.5k from home and the last bit up the hill felt good. So I turned and pushed for home. The heat from the road started to get to me and the sweat was really pouring off. 3k to go and I slowed a little to get my breathing right again then 1k to go push push. It felt great and no sore legs or any niggles.
A day off then 22k tomorrow morning.
Christmas is close so in case I forget "Merry Christmas everyone"
Take care

1st Run Back !

I was a little sore for a couple of days after the K2D and although I had booked a massage the day after I felt I didn't need it. Was I wrong, when if ever is a massage not a good thing ?.
Anyway the last couple of days I have been itching for a run and last night headed out for a 12k romp. It felt good and I was surprised that even after about 5k I was able to do a little push for a couple of k's. All up 12k at 5:15 pace. Easy out and easy home with a push in the middle. That about sums it up. The lightning was awesome and every now and then the sky would light up making it almost daylight.
A rest tonight then a nice easy 15-18k on Saturday morning and see how the legs go.
Christmas is nearly here and everyone seems to be in a good mood, me included.
Take care

Me Thinks !

Sorry about my slack race report. My brain was not in full working order yesterday and being back at work again after a week off didn't help. I had a good hard think about what went wrong and what I can improve on.
1. Start off slow.
2. Drink lots of fluid.
3. Pick a pace and stick to it.
4. Chat with as many people as possible.
One thing I did notice was on the return run I had more energy than the run down. Not quicker but just felt a lot better. In my mind I was questioning my fitness and where it had gone. At home I do my long runs with ease and push out 22k easy but on any race day I feel burnt out by 16k. I take off like a mad man and before I know it my body starts saying "what are you doing idiot".
So a slow start will be the aim. It seemed to work for the Brizvagas marathon.
I had about 3 really good chats along the way with fellow runners and dam was it good. It really lifted my spirits and was great to hear about their own training and running stories.
At the moment I am in limbo, resting and enjoying a bit of sleep I don't usually get. Thursday night will be my first run again and if all goes well I should be aiming for either the 6hr in Caboolture or something in April.

Ps. Thanks Tesso for the warm hug and cheers along the way. Sorry I didn't get to chat after the race my legs and brain were not working together. So I will make it a point at the next race meet to chat and get some advice.

Take care.

Kurrawa to Duranbah and back!!!

The 50 k from hell was back.
I had a week down the coast relaxing and putting more effort into my research on alcohol/running. With only about 3 runs on the coarse and a couple that left me doubting I could make the distance in the heat. I was not feeling the best by the time race day came. I had lost my confidence and had trouble trying to motivate myself. But when I saw a few fellow Coolrunner's ( MickG, Tesso & Tuttle) and was asked how I felt, I replied "Good" and I was feeling a lot better. A nice hug from Tesso to warm the heart and we were off. I must admit in most races except a few I take off and don't pace myself. At about 8k I was doing 4:50 min/k and feeling the heat already. Lucky I had my Dad as my crew on his bike and got heaps of help along the way. Boy was it hot. I was disappointed at my first half of the race but made up for it in the second half. It was only at about 3k to go when my legs started to try and cramp and I was forced to a slow walk for a while. But I finished under goal B which was 6 hours so it was OK. I know I could have done a lot better but there is always next year. I drank 6 Gatoraids, 4 Gels, 2 bottles of Coke and drank at least two cups at every aid station. When I weighed myself after the race I was 4kg lighter still.
So all up 50k at 5Hr 52 mins and a PB.
Take care

Push push

I am away for a week Friday. So heaps to be done and organised.
I am staying down the coast and will be doing short runs along where the k2d goes. I think I mentioned a trip to the half way point to run the hill for some fun or maybe inspiration. That's when the run starts for me its the way home. I hate lap races where you have to do two or more laps, I would rather run out and back or just out.
last night a quick 8k at 4:45 pace and it was hot.
Tonight rest then 15k on Thursday night
Take care

Smiley face !

I feel great this morning. It's like Xmas has come early but with no presents just Santa and a dog dressed like Rudolf barking Christmas carols. He just pats you on the back and says " well done, your hard work is paying off"
Like last night when I have a really good run I sit down and look at the days leading up to it and try and Analise what I did to get the "nice run". I just felt so comfortable and no niggles, no pain, no worries ! There does not seem to be any pattern or reason why this happens. It could be a big picture thing but who cares, last night felt good.
To top it off the moon had two stars above it and for all money looked like a big smiley face.
:)
I took lots of water and sipped constantly. The four bottles on the fuel belt were just the right amount I needed and I took my last sip about 500m from home.
All up 21k at 5:20 pace and felt good.
Take care.

Sore Nipples

Saturday morning was a killer BOM said it was 26 deg and when I left home at 4:30am it felt more like 30 deg. I wanted a nice easy 20k and took no water !?!. By the time I hit 8k I had lost huge amounts of sweat and was looking left and right for a tap or fountain. The sky looked threatening but still no rain. I turned for home with a quick drink from a water fountain and decided to go a bit easier. I got home and lay on my front lawn for at least 10 min. The heat had really affected me, which made for good punishment. I tend to punish myself if I've had a few too many red wines the night before a run. Anyway 20.2k at 5:40 pace. Sunday morning was different. No wine, no heat and blue sky. What a nice morning for a run. With plenty of "gidday's and Goood morning's" from cyclists including a high five !, the run was great and I put a little into the middle k's to come home easy. All up 15.5k at 5:15 pace and then mow the grass.
Tonight an easy 21k and put in a little sprint the last k.
Take care.

Recycled Rain !

I thought my shoes had dried out enough but I was wrong. After about 10 seconds of putting them on and walking around a nice cool wet feeling appeared. Back to the cupboard and fish out an old pair. The rain was steady and not real hard but 3k into the run it poured and poured. I think my plan was just a 10k or something but I got into such a though process about coming events that before I knew where I was I had hit 7k from home and still felt good. My pace was a nice easy 5:15/k and it was not a night to be pushing or farting. So I slowed a little and came home feeling really good. A little sprint to finish off and my neighbour giving me the line "I wish I had your energy". All up 15.5k at 5:20 pace.
I guess the same again tonight but head a bit off road and get muddy, just for fun.
I have not really set any goals for 2009 or races I would like to do. I think after K2D I might decide.
Take care

Rain Rain Rain

There is something soothing about running in the rain, I just don't know what it is. An easy 10k last night with sloshy shoes thanks to a muddy puddle I landed in. The hard part is the start of a rainy run then you get used to the wet. But I feel sorry for my shoes, they slosh away and I'm sure it cant be good for them.
Anyway 10k at 4:58 pace and it was nice.
Take care

Feeling Good

When you are fit, you don't feel fit.
It's funny how when you train for an event or a goal you never really feel super fit or tuned and race ready. But other people seem to notice it more and comment on it. It could be a smile on my face the next day after a long run the night before or just a bit more bubbly first thing in the morning. My mood has had a swing in the right direction the last few weeks as the race gets closer. My 3 goals for this race are No. 1 sub 5:30
No.2 sub 6:00
No.3 Finish (NO DNF)
I will be down the coast a week before the race and plan on taking a drive to the half way point and run the hill over and back (nice and easy of coarse) because last year it was a bit of a blur.

Last night an easy 15.5k at 5:15 pace. My legs were still a bit sore from the long run but warmed up by 3k. The only highlights were the 3 beeps (yes I had my pants on and there were no complaints from locals about a fat hairy balding bloke out running) and 2 yes 2 comments yelled out from cars. Most of the comments I don't really get to here in full and it always reminds me of that AD they used to have on TV with the young bloke in the servo who only heard bits of a song from a car driving past. The only full comment I have heard was a few months ago when a couple of young blokes actually slowed down to deliver the "Piss in the gutter and swim, it's quicker". All I could do was smile and think hmmm..... a swim would be nice.
Take care

Long Easy !

That weather is a strange thing. After really hot humid days with storms I awoke Sunday morning at 3:30 am feeling cold. A bit of a struggle to get out of bed and for a split second contemplated not going for a run. But I felt guilty and told myself I would reward myself with some more research into the ongoing alcohol/running test program. Stepping out I was hit by a cold wind that almost took my breath away. No time for warm up or stretch so it was straight into the run. I took it really easy and at about 3k I was feeling warmed up. It's nice now the sun comes up a lot earlier, it made the trip out to Cleveland point just that bit more enjoyable. Looking out over the water I took a deep breath and turned for home. It's not that I run with my head down but I do see alot of money on the road and on occasion I pick it up ( it has to be a gold coin to make it worth while) Lucky for me I spotted two $2 coins and picked them up. As I got close to home I was feeling good so I headed out to Point O Halloran and spotted a golf ball, I picked it up and it kept me amused for a while as I bounced and threw it around while running. 3 k to go I was still feeling good so I upped the pace and came home strong. I was really happy with that run. All up 25.4k at 5:26 pace.
Tonight 15-16k ?
Take care.

Crash Bang Rain!

As always there was a plan but with a storm on the way I thought I would get in a quick 8 k.
I could see the lightning approaching and hear the rain but I was 4k from home and there was no short cut. So as I turned for home the slow rain began and just for a second I thought " This aint so bad". That's when a huge crack of lightning hit and my legs went in different directions trying to escape. My heart skipped a couple of beats and the adrenalin started to flow. I picked up the pace and almost broke out into a sprint. About 2k to go the rain came down in buckets and I could no see very well let alone run at a good pace. By the time I got home I was saturated
but still feeling good I had at least gotten out for a run.
Rest tonight then a 22-29k in the morning.
Take care.

Rest Rain Run.

Being a lazy male I used the rainy night as an excuse not to run but then the guilts got me and decided to punish myself last night.
A nice easy start and for the life of me I still don't know why I didn't take anything to drink. I watched the lightning across the sky and hoped I could at least get home before the rain started. About 8k into the run I noticed a girl ahead going flat out then slowing a bit then taking off again ( probably doing the farts). So I upped the pace. I caught up to her and every time she sprinted I went with her. This only lasted about 2k then she turned to me and said "see ya" and disappeared down a street. I slowed down my pace and headed up a hill, that's when I felt a little thirsty. Hmmmmmmmmm............ Not a great sign so maybe I should turn and head for home. Nah it should be OK. So I headed up another hill doing just a couple more k before turning and heading home. A nice easy pace on the way home and I stopped with 1 k to go at a servo and drank half of Brisbane's water supply. Then walked home as my warm down. All up 23k + 1 k walking water balloon.
Tonight 15k easy.
Take care

Hot & Stormy.

Wow, it got hot on the weekend. An early morning run on Saturday was nice. The early start was great as the day had not warmed up yet but coming home Oh Boy did it warm up. I had to stop a couple of times to get more water and really get some fluids into me. all up 29k at a lazy 5:45 pace. Sunday morning was the BRRC 5/10k at West End. What a turn out. I thought maybe 40 people but no it would have to be at least 100. It was great to put some names to faces and chat to fellow Coolrunners. My legs were still a bit heavy from the long run but that didn't stop me going out hard. The first 3k I was on 4:30 pace and that's when the legs said "Hey what the..."
The 6 am start was a bit late as the morning temp was over 28 deg and it got hotter. I finished in 49 min which was way over what I could do but that is not what I am training for so it will have to do. Tonight a nice easy 22k and after the storm last night it might be a wet run.
Take care.

More rain !

It poured rain from the time I left till about a k from home. Then the stars came out and all I could hear was my shoes squelching with every step. I must admit I really enjoy the time out in the rain and it helped clear the mind from yet another ordinary day at work.
A nice 14k at about 5:20 pace.
Tonight rest then a quick 8-12k on Saturday morning. Or maybe 23k ? I do enjoy the runs out to Cleveland point and seeing the light over the bay before the sun rises.
Sounds liken a plan. Sunday will be the 10k social/run/jog/chat and meet up with a few Coolrunners.
Take care

Rain rain !

After my long run on Monday night I rested Tuesday night and woke up the next morning a little flu ridden. Sore throat and headache. Not happy.
Feeling a little better last night I did a nice slow 15.5k at 5:20 pace. The first 4k were terrible but when I hit 8k I was feeling a lot better. Then the rain came down and it felt refreshing.
This morning I woke to a couple of sneezes and a runny nose. Not happy.
Any way if all goes well I will get out another 15k tonight.
It looks like the Sunday run will have to be a slow one. The last time I ran a race with the flu it felt cr#p and so a lesson was learnt. Then again I am male !
Take care.

A boost in confidence.

After my long run last week I revised my plan and reset my goal for the K2D. My goal is to beat 5 hours. Yeah I know it should be a given after a sub 4 hour marathon but being off injured and the usual bugs, slugs and colds somewhat reduced my confidence.
I just don't feel fit !.
So the revised goal is 6 hours...........
It looks like Saturday morning will be a long run then Sunday morning off to Briz Vegas for a 10k easy and a chat with fellow CoolRunners.
Last night I was only supposed to do 22k but after last weeks long run I wanted to get home feeling a lot better. I did go out a bit hard last week so this time I went out real easy and kept the pace slow. I swear I was almost walking but never looked at Garmin to see how I was going.
The last 3k a smile came across my face as I was still going and feeling good. I still had a little water and had only consumed 1 gel on the journey. A quick 50 metre to end off and I had done 30.6k at 5:40 pace. No sore legs or feeling demoralised. My confidence is back.
Tonight 15k.
Take care.

Sun Burnt !!!!

A nice 16.5 k at 5:02 pace on Thursday night then a corporate golf day on Friday.
Golf was great and I even won 2 trophies. One was for third place and the second was a horses ass trophy which I got for doing a pants down "twice". It was just a bit of fun and to break the day up a bit.
Normally my boss and I would do a nudie run just for kicks. It always seems to break the ice with a lot of people about who don't know each other.
Anyway I got burnt on the coarse and Saturday went out for a midday jog and got burnt again.
Another 12k at about 5:15 pace.
Monday night is going to be 2 hours on my feet. It could be 22k or 25k ? who knows.
5 weeks to go.

Relax enjoy the ride !

A quick run of only 10k @ 4:50 pace. It turned out to be a busy night getting tax done and getting stuff done so a quickie it was.
Rest tonight and eat well.
Another long run planned for the weekend so eating lots is the go.
Take care

Thirsty !

It was time for a long run at night and something with lots of heaps of hills. I spent yesterday afternoon mapping out my run trying to pick lots of steep hills and making it a round trip not an out and back type run. It wasn't till about 6:45pm before I headed off and at 3k I noticed I was at 4:45 pace for the first 3k. "Slow down it's a long run" I had to tell myself. As I hit 6k the first hill came into view and although I would rather run on a flat coarse, hills are my next favorite. By the time I hit 23k I was over the last hill, it seemed easier than some of the others even with a sharp rise at the end. A quick look at overall pace 5:30, nice. I had taken 2 gels and my fuel belt that holds 4 bottles (2 water,2 gatorpowersports type aid) and had sipped as I went but at 24k I was out of fluids and 1 gel left. The next few k's were terrible my mouth got dry and with 2k to go I found a servo tap and drank about a litre of water. I ran another k and walked the last as my warm down.
I was happy with that effort 29k at 5:36 pace.
A record number of cars beeping at me, I counted at least 10 on the way out and more on the way home. Who are these people ?
Take care

Not as planned.

Well the plan was to get out for a long run but time was not on my side. So I only managed a couple of 10k runs at about 4:50 pace.
I have now set out my plan for the next 5 weeks. It involves ramping up the k's and more long runs. Tonight will start with a nice easy long, I still don't know how many k's but I will go out easy and see how I feel.
There is no plan for sprints or hill nights but I am sure some nights I will push the pace when I feel comfortable.
The big Noosa Tri was on the weekend and a few people kept me in tune with how they went and rubbed in how good a time they had up there. I have done a few Tri's when I was younger and really enjoyed the swim and the runs but the transition from swimming to cycling and cycling to running were the hard part.
Anyway the weather is grey so tonight won't be hot and should help keeping fluids in the body.
6 or 5 weeks to go.
Take care

Stars !

AAAGGH ! I hate when people get to me. It doesn't usually happen but for some reason it happened today and not just one person but two?!?. Leaving work it stayed in the back of my mind and I had trouble forgetting about it. That's why I love running and fishing. I can get out on the road or out on ocean and clear the mind. The plan was an easy 15k and in the first 7k I almost felt like I was at about 5:25 pace or slower. I made a decision to add a k on at half way because I felt like I wasn't going hard enough so I had to go longer, if that makes sense?.
At the 13k mark I checked Garmin (normally I don't check it till I get home) and my pace was a surprising 5:15 so I pushed hard for the last 3k and came in at 16.5k at 5:10 pace.
I sat down on the grass looked up at the stars and my hassles were gone, all I was thinking about now was my next run.
That felt good.
I am planning to try get out to the 10k at the BRRC on the 16th. At this stage I have not done any speed training so it might be just a run with a lot of socializing.
Take care

Feeling fit again !

Just the usual 15.5 k with a couple of hills thrown in.
The plan was easy running with no pushing and that's about how it went. All up 15.5 k at 5:20 pace and I felt relaxed, comfortable and felt fit again.
I remember early on in the year running 22.3k on two consecutive days. The first day taking it easy and doing it in about 2 hours then the next day doing it in about 1:55 hrs. That's when I felt fit and able to take on a marathon. Mind you I had run 50k before that but all respect to the marathon distance. It's a running race not an ultra that your goals vary from times to just finishing.
Tonight rest and make a dint in the couch.
Take care

That's Better

A nice 22.3k last night in 5:07 pace.
I was happy with that and even felt strong going home the last few k's.
This weekend I will do a 29k but very easy and see how I fare.
A short post, busy busy.
Take care

Sun Sea Surf !

A weekend up the coast at Maloolaba was what the doctor ordered.
A couple of early morning run's but without a watch or any distance recorded. It was just nice to run an easy pace for an hour and take in the water and the local joggers about.
Boy was that nice. It actually felt like a weekend.
Tonight back to the grind with a very easy 20+k.
Take care.

Ouch a hill !

Just finding time to get out for a run meant getting out very late. I had to sacrifice my sleep for a nice hilly run.
I chose a hilly coarse because I tend to get too comfortable on the flats and get into a rhythm. Not a bad thing but last night I didn't want to be comfortable, I wanted to feel like I was actually training. Ha Ha like I know how to train properly !
Anyway a nice big hill in the middle of the run with little hills along the rest to mix up the pace.
I felt good till I hit the big hill and my legs hurt a little. I think I should have pushed a bit harder going up and not held back trying to save a bit for the run home.
Getting home at about 10:30pm meant after a shower and relaxing on the couch I almost fell asleep without eating dinner.
But I was happy with the run! 15.8k at 4:58 pace.
Take care
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZz.................................!!!

Running down a storm!

After a nice 22k the other night I thought a very easy 15k would be in order. Reports of a storm on the way sounded like another wet run. I am always indecisive whether to wear old shoes in wet weather because some wet nights turn out dry with very little rain.
I was glad the storm didn't last long and headed out just after it went past. It wasn't till I hit about 6k that the rain came down in one quick shower for about 5 Min's. The only bad thing about the storm was the wind and the first 5k was into the howling wind. Dam it's hard work when it's in your face almost blowing you backwards.
Anyway a nice easy 15.3k at 5:25 pace.
Tonight rest, eat, make a dint in the couch and watch a box.
Take care

Half !

I honestly felt like I needed to sleep for a couple of days to recharge my body. After a days work I just wanted to Vege on the couch or sleep. It was a struggle to push myself out the door but I couldn't find any excuses not to go. The plan was to run at least 20k and easy. A walk up the road with a few stretches and as I turned to start my run I heard a koala grunting. Standing in the middle of the road listening to the koala grunting away my heart started to beat a bit harder and I set off. A little quicker than I would have liked but I controlled my breathing and was feeling good. Apart from dropping my water bottle twice and getting the odd scream from Neanderthals in cars the run went well.
All up 21.5k at 5:07 pace and boy was I happy with that. Coming home I had a couple of bursts and could have gone harder but held back. A little sprint to finish off and my confidence was boosted by the run.
Tonight a real easy 15-16k.
Take care

Sad but true !

Only one run this weekend 18k at 5:05 pace. It was a nice run but with so much to get done on the weekend I did not have time to get serious.
Anyway. At the beginning of the year I read Glen Hendry's blog on a race he ran over on Russel island. To cut a long story short the result of this race was disappointing. He had done too much racing in too shorter time. The results were getting worse the more races he did. It would seem he needed to rest/recover between races properly. I am no expert but after reading Blair's race report on Sunday that story bounced back into my head. I really felt for Blair and I am sure he will bounce back even stronger.
So how often can you race without it affecting your results ? I know I cant achieve the adrenaline hit before a race or create the atmosphere during training runs and I cant run as fast as race days. I know we would all like to enter every race out there but to achieve PB's in every one I doubt we could.
Anyway tonight 20+k easy.
Take care

More of the Same !!!

After a rest on Wednesday night and a good feed to fill the belly it was time to get out again.
I really enjoy my running when there is no injuries or I am feeling really fit.
For some reason lately when I run I go through 3k of little niggles that are all different and seem to have disappeared at about 3k. The right quad has a little pain then the left kneecap has a couple of sharp pains then the left calf then the right ankle etc etc......
But as always it goes away and all is good. I sometimes wonder if that's why people stop running or use it as an excuse to not run?.
Anyway a nice easy 15k last night with 2 big hills. At about 5:05 pace and home easy nice as I described it in my running diary. A head wind on my way home was refreshing and the two cars yelling abuse at me had me smiling. It's not every run you get conversation out there to liven things up a bit.
The really loud stereos are great and give you just enough of a song to singing the rest.
Take care

Time on my feet !

After an early 4 am start and a very busy day at work I did not feel like a 20k run.
I needed a motivation and for the life of me I couldn't find one. Sitting on the edge of my bed staring down at my shoes the mind was blank and I could have just lay down and crashed.
But as what happens every time I just got up and walked up the street looking up at the moon.
The plan was to take it easy and get time on my feet. I started well, holding myself back and getting into a good easy pace. Even though I took a couple bottles of .....aid I still lost 3kg in weight and was really thirsty getting home.My right shoe for some reason was saturated and the last few k's was like I had just crossed a creek.
All up 22k @ 5:30 pace and I was happy with that.
tonight rest ?
Take care

Change of plan !

As always things never go as planned.
My plan to do at least 20k last night didn't happen but it will tonight. So all I could do was a quick 10k at 5:50 pace and get home to finish business. I could really feel the heat off the road in some bits and was saturated in sweat in no time.
Tonight a very easy 20k. Then look at the plan again to decide on the long runs. I don't want to blow out or have any problems as it will lower my confidence.
Take care

Busy !

A nice easy run Saturday morning left me in a good mood for the rest of the weekend.
21.8k at 5:20 pace and I knew if I didn't get this run in there was no way I would get one in the rest of the weekend.
A 3:30 am start was good not too rainy or cold but just nice. I took plenty of drink and gel in case it was needed. Getting home was great as I had plenty of energy left.
Tonight another easy (time on your feet as Tesso say's) 20 odd k and sweat out some of that red wine !
Watching that 6 foot footage on Coolrunnings was awesome it had me itching to get out and do that run one day.

Take care

Beat the rain !

The weather report for last night was supposed to be rain and I wanted to get out and beat the rain. A little windy but no signs of rain so I set off for what was a easy run. After my last run my lefty was a little sore so I didn't want to push it or aggravate any injury's. A few K's into my run everything warmed up so I pushed a little but not too hard.
Coming home was great as I hit a long flat bit I upped the pace and boy did that feel good.
The last k I slowed down a bit but was still feeling good so I sprinted the last 100m.
Nice !
All up 15.5k at 5:00 pace and I felt good.
The rain is bucketing down now and so I am looking forward to a nice 20 odd k in the rain this weekend.
Take care.

Thats why I'm Easy !

A little pain in my left leg below the knee had me worried.
After coming back from an injury the last thing I want was any more time off. So my plan changed a bit to a very easy 14k and no pushing at all. It took a few k's to get the left leg feeling better but with about 6k to go it came back. I wanted to stop but I just grit my teeth and held on for home. All up 14k at 5:25 pace. Fitness wise I felt really good but that left leg............... If it wasn't attached to me I would throw it out in a second. Tonight REST, yep rest.
Thursday night 15+k and see how the lefty feels.
Take care.

Lazy !

My plans for the weekend went out the window.
Not only the easy half but any sort of run. I put it down to just plain lazy. I was also a bit dubious about the half and trying the legs out on a nice distance again.
What was I afraid of ?
Last night I finally did it. Yep, I went out really easy and just tried to comfortable. At half way I was cursing not taking a water bottle and by the time I hit 3k to go my mouth went dry.
You idiot.
Anyway a little push the last k and home.
All up 21.1k @ 5:21 pace. nice.
This morning I feel good and no pain or strains, no sore legs or anything.
Tonight really easy 15k.
Take care.

A Terrible Week.

I wont talk about work but what a terrible week.
A nice 15.5 k at 4:55 pace on Wednesday night and it seems as though my confidence is coming back. I am still fearing the longer runs as the last time I did a long run I had to walk the last 2k and was injured for 2 weeks.
Last night a quick 8k. I tried to just ease out and come home strong. It was as per plan and I even managed to sprint the last 500m.
Rest tonight then the dreaded 21.5k on Saturday morning. I will get up at 3 am, yeah I know but a busy day lies ahead and I just wont have much time this weekend.
So the plan is go out easy and push when I feel good. Fingers crossed nothing goes wrong.
Take care

Just nice !

A nice 15.5k on Monday night at 5:05 pace had me feeling really good. Going out easy and coming home feeling like I could break out into a sprint if I wanted to.
Tuesday night was Work end of month and so it was home late, eat, sleep and go back to work.
Tonight another 15-16k easy.
I still have a little niggle in my left knee so I am resting as much as possible between runs.
About 10 or so weeks till K to D and my training plan is just about written. It looks like it will be a reverse taper so we will have to see how that goes.
Take care.

Start Again !

After another 15k on Thursday night ( 4:54 pace) and feeling pretty good, I rested for a few days to get back into the swing. Sunday morning was supposed to be a long 20k but I slept in after a really good Saturday night. The research into the alcohol consumption affects on training still in progress. I decided to punish myself with a midday run. The first 3k were fine then the heat off the road hit me like a dead mullet in the face. I did struggle on and just told myself "this is what it will be like in December".
All up 11.5k at 4:56 pace.
Tonight another 15k then rest Tuesday night ( End of month at work so a late night)
Take care

Hot ?

It was only supposed to be an easy 8-10k.
I set off for my 10k run and tried as best to breath easy and stay comfortable.
I felt really good and at the 3k and I checked my pace. I was at 4:45 for the 3k so I slowed a little and headed up to the long hill. I should have turned at 5.5k but just kept on going up to the steeper part of the hill. I rounded the top of the hill with a little discomfort in the left leg but otherwise felt good. A nice run home and hit a stretch with no wind. The heat off the road hit me and it brought back memories of Kurrawa to Duranbah. That was a terrible day for me as I trained well for that race but threw my race plan out the window. I did not drink any water till 16k and went out way too hard.
Anyway lessons learnt.
All up 15.3k at 5:05 pace.
Take care

Nice !

A good start to the week. Not only did I have the best Monday in a long time but some old school friends are planning a camping get together. From the time we finished school till the time when woman came into our lives we camped at least every 3weeks. Up and down the coast including forests and on beaches. As woman arrived slowly but surely the group got smaller until the time came for the first marriage.............. Yep that word !
Anyway it will be good to get together and see all the family's.
A nice 8k last night at 4:50 pace and I felt good. The only problem was the sweat poring off me and the windy conditions.
So I am happy (see how long that lasts) and another 8k tonight.
Take care

Feeling Better !

A couple of short run's on the weekend and I am feeling a lot better !
The plan for this week is to run every night but only short run's and get the legs used to running tied again.
I have been concentrating on running straight and keeping all movements balanced.
Whatever that means. (physio speak)
But feeling good so on with a plan.
Take care

The physio !

After a couple of easy runs and a day off it was time to see the physio again.
I was glad to hear that I was getting better and the muscle felt good. But and there is always a But. I had to slowly increase my runs not to try get back to how I was running too quick. Being a male my listening skills are not that flash or my ability to follow orders. I did rest last night and will do also tonight, with a nice massage to finish the week.
Saturday morning I will get out again for a nice easy run.
Take care

Feeling better!

It's amazing how 2 weeks off can affect your fitness.
A nice easy 11k last night at 5:00 pace. The wind was howling and almost felt like running on the spot along some roads. It's really starting to warm up and normally the wind would go right through you sending shivers down your spine. the layers I used to run with in the cold nights are staring to come off and soon it will be just the bare minimum to avoid car crashes and being arrested. Off to the physio Thursday arvo and a rest tonight.
My goal or plan for the month ahead is to slowly increase the k's and feel comfortable again doing my long runs. i will add in the odd sprint night but that's only a time thing as life doesn't always allow the things we would like to do.
Dam I really wanted to run at Glasshouse !.
Reading the coolrunners blogs and race reports almost made me cry. Ha Ha, almost !
The focus is K to D and back with a few in between to try and meet a few more coolrunners.
Take care

Feeling better!

It's amazing how 2 weeks off can really affect your fitness.

1st Run after 2 weeks off injured!

Jumping on the Net getting updates on the Glasshouse runners hurt soooo bad.
I wished I was out there with them. Congrats to them all and the crews,helpers and organises.
After a few visits to the physio and her telling me to harden the f#ck up. I finally felt right last night to go out for a run. My mind was " Yeah lets do 25k" My body was "5k and slow"
It's funny but I felt better running normally than trying to jog or take it easy.
Anyway a nice 8k in 4:50 pace and I was as happy as a pig in mud.
But I still wished I was out there in the scrub !

Stupid is !

I haven't run for over a week and it's because I was stupid, dumb or crazy. Whichever way you look at it I should not have done a long run. It hurt to get 12k from home and coming home I was in agony. I even had to walk the last k. And you know what hurts the most ? NOT being able to run!
This S#cks!
Anyway I am over it now and trying to recover from this injury to come back and enjoy my running again.
Dam I miss it. !

Getting ready !

My entry for the Glasshouse 50k is in. Time to get ready.
I purchased a pare of Salomon shoes and tried them on last night just before heading out for a run.They just didn't feel right so I put my kayano's back on and headed out.
I might have to run them in on a trail run or something.
No real goals for this glasshouse as my preparation hasn't been the best. I guess a finish under the last time and DON'T GET LOST are about all that are important. I will try just to enjoy being out there.
Last night a quick 16.7k at 4:58 pace and it's starting to warm up a bit out there.
Mental note: Don't dress all in black and wonder why the oncoming cars are swerving out the way at the last second!
Take care

Very Easy Monday ?

Well that was the plan. Just go out easy and feel really comfortable no push just run.
I started easy and felt good the night was not as cold as previous days and the stars just seemed a little brighter. I only notice the stars when heading out fishing or running. Last week I had Thursday off to get a few things done and when all my to do list was done I hooked up the boat and headed out into the bay. I get a similar feeling being out on the water as when out running. I think the mind just lets go and clears a bit. I headed out off Point Lookout and being a week day there was no hussle and bussle of boats or divers. I did spend an hour just cruising around the islands off Point Lookout looking at reefs below.
Anyway back to the run. I felt like i was at Abbut 5:15 pace and tried to not look at Garmin till I hit about 8k and only looked at the k's covered.
Going home was nice and easy except for a little hill that created a blind spot as cars came over with their lights blinding me and a bus driver who seemed to be out to get me.
All up 16.5k at 4:59 pace and I swear I was over the 5:10 pace ?
Take care

What the ? Add $2

After 4 days resting and doing NO running I thought I would just stretch the legs.
Well that's what I call it anyway.
The first 3k were nice and easy then my legs felt warm and I headed towards a hill. My brain said "Not a good idea mate" But my stubborn male ego thing said "She'ill be right "
The hill was not a hard hill but I was very tentative and didn't push. That's when the left started a little niggle and I was cursing even being out there. What was I thinking ? I should have turned back. Another hill at 7k and a steep one at that. I just looked ahead slowing the pace to a jog and at the top turned for home. Waiting for the pain to come in and nothing?
15k gone and I could have turned into home but I just kept on going. For some strange reason I felt good and no signs of any pain. A quick loop and pushed a bit harder the last few k's. Wow that was nice.
All up 21.5k at 5:02 pace.
This includes stopping for $2 on the road and brings my total for money found on the road to $5:30. No I wont give up my day job !
Rest Sunday and very easy Monday !

THAT HORRIBLE FOUR LETTER WORD !

REST !
Thats right I am following orders not listening to my brain.
Although I will do a light jog/run Saturday morning just to stretch the legs. Then hop on a bike and go for a ride to burn a few calories.
It has been hard not running but I did get new shoes and that sort of helped in the way that it's not the end and I will have to run them in.
No pain no niggles but no running so we will see how Saturday morning goes and slowly over the next few weeks ad a few k's.
Take care

A $1.30 for a man in pain !

Silly stubborn me ! I Did a nice 12k last night @ 4:50 pace and it only hurt from about 3k !
Ha I have planned a trip to the physio this week and my stubborn brain will continue to force me to run ! My plan is to find a nice flat ground and just go round and round till I have covered enough k's.
why is it always the left leg ?
Take care !

Ouch !

Dam I hate getting injured !
There is no use trying to push through an injury. The body just wont let you.
I rested another day and waited till Sunday morning to go for a run. Just an easy 18k no push no hassle just easy. Well that was the plan. I felt good and no signs of the left knee till I hit about 5k then the pain set in and I tried to push through it but the pain just got worse. By about 13k the pain seemed to be less or I was just getting used to it. Then a group of cyclists rode bye with about 20 "good morning ,gidday and how ya goin?" and took my mind off the pain. The last k hurt like hell and although any body in their right mind would have walked a long time ago I just kept going. What was I thinking ? I'm not 19 and bullet proof. Anyway 18k at 5:10 pace and ouch.
To top it off I spent most of the day pushing a dam mower around the yard and a couple of trips to the dump to clean up the yard.
I did manage to catch the women's marathon WoW !
Take care

new left leg !

I think I might look on ebay for a new left leg !
I chose to stay away from hills last night as my left knee or muscles around it only started to bother me when I hit a few hills. A bit of zig zagging and loops around my area trying to stay away from anything that looked like an hill and I think it worked. The first 3k nothing no niggles or any sign of things to come. By 10k a little discomfort appeared and as I turned a corner a hill appeared. Bugger it, I sprinted up the hill waiting for the pain to magnify but it didn't. I cruised on home wondering what the problem actually is. Hmmmmmmmmm...........
Maybe I should see someone about this leg.
Anyway a nice 16k at 4:50 pace and Go Aussie Go. Wow I love watching the Olympics !.
Take care

nice ouch nice

Wednesday morning was my EKKA day off so instead of running Tuesday night I chose to run the following morning instead. I had a bit of a sleep in and headed out about 6:15am.
The idea was to get warmed up by the early morning sun but no I don't think the sun actually came out all day. Instead it hid behind some sort of cloud cover and just teased every now and then. It was no warmer but I was out there and just grit my teeth the first few k's before I started to warm up. My left leg still has a pain just around the knee and so It was easy running only and just grind out the k's.
All up 15.5k at 5:05 pace and few nice "good morning" from people out and about.
I have to skip Noosa this year (work stuff) and go for Glasshouse 50k instead.
I am going to memorise the route and take down notes on survival techniques, either way it will help.
Take care

About time !

It get so hard to walk out the house when it's so cold. My mind is so eager to go for a run but as I step into the cold and walk down to the street my body starts asking me questions. Like "What the ?" I try and warm up but it's no use it's going to be a cold cold run. I did plan on 18k but at about 7k I was wet from the sweat and the minus 5 degree wind was going through me. My only niggles came from my left knee and I was happy with that. It's about time my strains went away and I can start to push my legs a bit harder. I wish I had two of my right leg as it never gives me any problems.
All up 15.3k at 4:54 pace and cold

Cold cold cold

Another busy weekend with social gatherings galore.
My research into running the morning after a night drinking ( not heaps but enough) continues.
My friends came over from South Africa for a couple of weeks and rang me when they arrived.
Wow what a surprise and oh sh#t I have Sunday booked out with other friends. As luck would have it they wanted to get together Saturday and there goes the weekend of trying to catch the Games. They only happen every four years and I really enjoy watching people represent their country and giving it all they have.
Oh well I did get the odd glimpse and the replays.
Saturday morning I did get out for a quick13k at 4:58 pace at 4:30am ( never again).
Then Sunday a 15k at 4:53 pace 6:00am still cold but at least the sun did something.
Dam it was cold and I did not see any silly runners out both times.
Sunday morning hurt the most with my left leg still not quite happy, but the hurt came more from the alcohol in my body and me trying to punish myself for the drinks I had.
Tonight another 15k or more then try longer runs mid week and weekends.
Take care

No Farts !

Another busy day !
My Friend brought a pair of Salomon Pro XD Ultra's from a US site and they arrived yesterday.
When he was looking at buying them he asked my advise. Like I know anything about trail shoes. He has a smaller foot than me and brought the wrong size, it's funny because they fit me perfectly and are too big for him. I can't remember what size I told him to buy but it must have been an honest mistake !!.
I have offered to buy them off him.
Last night didn't go as planned. I did get in a 15.2k but went out too hard and struggled home with a sore left knee. All up 15.2k at 4:58 pace.
Tonight rest, well a bit of shopping for goodies and relax.
I think one more week to decide on races ahead and see how the legs feel.
Take care

Ouch Ouch !

As planned I did manage to get out for a 15.3k run. With my legs still a little sore in places I tried to hold back on pushing too hard.
The first 2k felt really good and sitting on about 5min/k pace felt nice and easy.
3-6k hurt a little and the hill at 7k had me slowing so as to not add to the sore legs.
At 9k my legs felt good again and I hit a flat section that goes for about 2.5k. I stretched out my stride and lifted the knees. Wow I wish I could do this sort of pace for 42k !.
HA.
Anyway I slowed for the last hill and came in home a little too quick. The legs are feeling it today.
All up 15.3k at 4:56 pace. NICE to be back.
Now just to try rest the legs today and do it all again tonight.
Help I can't decide on Noosa or Glasshouse ?!?

Back into the swing !

I have had the dreaded flu/cold/bug/ yuck thingy and with my legs a little sore last week the rest was needed.
A couple of easy runs on the weekend 12k and 8k. The legs are feeling better and The stride is coming back.
After Flinders tour my legs felt really sore and I think it had a lot to do with the mud running. I wish someone had a camcorder there to see how people got through some of these sections. My legs went in two different directions and were not in any sort of control.
I am in two minds at the moment as to do the Noosa half or go back to the Glasshouse for another 50 ?
Anyway back into the swing tonight and 15k easy out push home.
Then long fartlek on Tuesday night.
Take care

Easy does it.

A nice easy 8k last night with no watch or gps. Started with a walk for about 1k then a Cliff Young shuffle for another k then opened up the stride to feel comfortable.
How cold is it ? The Bom website says its in the positives but I reckon the wind chill factor on my nose was about minus 5. Ha.
Anyway another rest tonight then 10-12k Wednesday night.
Hopefully by the weekend I will be able to get back into gear and get back to running consistent sub 5min k's for half marathon.
Noosa looks like the next race and boy is it nice up there.
Take care

Oh No Not Again !

The Flinders Tour was a great run.
I had a great time and really enjoyed the experience.
I started with the early starters at 5am and in typical form I pushed to the front in the first 200m. Remember my plan was to run very easy. Ha.
This was my first run with a headlamp and I felt good till I hit the path going up Mt Beerburum, I slowed up a bit and kept a nice easy pace. First to the top was great as I knew I could go easy on the way down. A few more minutes of easy running I could see glowing people ahead. They told me " go left then left again then right" Hmmmmm..... I knew this was not a good thing.
So I kept going following the directions given. Then I hit suburban road, hang on a minute this is a trail run?. I stopped for a few seconds looking around and spotted a car driving towards me. The man inside said keep going and turn right at the next street. Ok this was the right they were talking about. Once on the trail I felt a lot better as I could see the odd arrow and tape in the tree's. A few more k's of nice running I hit a really small down hill and kick a rock. Bang down I went but got up really quick and kept on going.
The trail hit a power line road and I looked back, I could not see anyone? but there was the arrow and the tape?
I pushed on and running along this road I opened up my stride and pushed hard staying comfortable. Wow I was feeling good and at the top of every rise I had a look back. Funny I couldn't have that much of a lead?!?
I kept going then I hit a Road. "F#ck, Sh#t !%$&*# not again!"
No arrows no tape nothing.
Looking back I stand there in anger and frustration. How far had I gone ? Where was the turn ?
What the ?
I put my head down and almost quit. Why me? Oh yeah that's right I always seem to get lost.
That's when I said to myself "F#ck it lets just enjoy this run"
I headed back slowly stopping at every entrance just to make sure it was not the one.
Finally I found it. Yahoo !.
It took me another 20 min to catch up to the back of the pack runners. Then I just cruised on keeping a very easy pace going. The rest of the race was as it should have gone except for a few mud baths and some funny running in really slippery mud. I did really hurt at about 53k and got happy with 500meters to go.
All up 56.6k and a pw to remember.
I think I will be back for this one it was a very nice run and I think I know the way this time.
Left then right then left again then right at the tree.
Oh no not again !

Easy does it !

Whats with these taper things ?.

I went out in the cold drizzly rain for an easy 12k. I really tried to go easy as possible but the cold wind on my face and the drizzly rain were not helping. Being a trail run and with all this rain it should be a muddy affair.

I know I will be wearing an old pair of shoes and taking it real easy.

All up last night 12.5k at 5:07 pace, with no pushing. I just don't feel comfortable shortening my stride. Yep what I thought was easy was not!.

I don't know if I will run tonight or rest, I feel good but this weather doesn't help.

Take care

Thats what it's all about !

After a bit of rain on and off yesterday I thought it might be a bit warmer last night. But as usual my weather predicting skills seem to let me down and it was cold windy and cold. Did I mention cold ?.
That is one thing I love about summer, Just get up and go running early. Not get up and go "Oh Sh#t its cold" and snuggle back into bed thinking it will warm up in half an hour.
Anyway a quick 8k last night. I just wanted to get out easy and push hard through the middle then come home easy. That was the plan and I stuck to it. At 3k I was at 5:00min pace so I pushed till 6.5k then just let the legs take me home without pushing.
All up 8.5k in 4:35min pace and I am happy with how my training has gone. I know this is forward planning but after Flinders I will do more sprint training and keep my long runs down to 22k. First make sure I finish Flinders and no DNF, I still don't have one and don't want one.
Then its off to Noosa for the half.
I stayed at backpackers last year and mental note "not a good idea" Happy hour does not go for a hour and sleep is not easy with people in and out of the Dorms at all hours. The people were great and chit chat with the different cultures even better.
But the night before running, hmmmmm.........
A rest is in order for tonight and then an easy 10-15k on Wednesday night.
Take care

Who left the freezer open ?

Ouch it was cold at 4 am this morning. Well that was my reasoning for going back to bed for another hour. I was only out for a +21k run, so a 5am start was on the cards.

I did aim for about 5:20- 5:30 pace without looking at Garmin. The first 7k felt terrible then I got into a rhythm and I felt good.

At 17k I could feel the legs stretching and I was holding back a faster finish. Even the last k down hill I held back and was happy to get home comfortable. No niggles no hassles ans No water/sports drink needed along the way.
All up 21.5k in 1:48hrs and it was nice.
It was my sympathy run for missing the jetty to jetty half.
Oh well there is always next year.
Taper down this week, no real k's or hard pushes just short easy run's.
Next Saturday Easy or very easy 50k and enjoy it.
Take care

1 week to go !

Yep only one week to go till Flinders Tour.
I am looking forward to this run in the way of using it as a measuring stick.
I will try pacing myself at about 5:30 min klm's. Maybe even start a bit slower so I come home easy with no stress on the body at all.
Anyway last night a quick 15.3k at 4:51 pace and out to the shops to mix in with the crowds.
New shoes soon and a little undecided !
Take care

Something tells me..............

Something tells me I should either look at the BOM website or listen to the news. Well that was the thought as the heavens opened up and dropped what was a nice shower. This was only 3k into the run and I could have turned back but I actually enjoyed the rain. Took it pretty easy till the rain started to ease and then I pushed for a few more klm's till about 13k then easy home.
I felt really good and am looking forward to my next race at the Glasshouse Flinders Tour. But I won't count my chicken nuggets yet because it's always the first worm to get eaten by the bird !
Anyway 15.3k @ 4:55 pace hmmmm...... ok I guess.
Take care.

30.5k of cold Easy running !

The alarm went off at 3:41, yeah a strange time to set the alarm but you can't be sane getting up at that sort of time of the morning. Standing outside looking up at the stars waiting for Garmin to find a few spy satellites I heard the familiar sound of a grunting Koala bear.
A quick walk up and down the street to warm up and make sure I was loaded up with gels and sports drink. Blue is my colour of the year and although I have tried other flavours I always go back to blue. I have been buying them from Aldi (cheap).
Anyway I set off and made sure I was running easy ( Yep Tesso I looked it up in the dictionary)
I did get to see a few dregs of humanity coming home from a big night out. Boy was it cold and you would at least they wold save a few $'s for a cab ride home ?!?
Anyway I felt really good all the way and even managed a sprint the last 300m.
All up 30.5k at 5:30 pace.
I am happy about that.
Take care.

Cold windy and cold !

The temperature must have been about minus 5 and no matter what layers of clothes you put on, it made no difference. I did have Wednesday night off and I wanted to try going out a bit harder to see how the legs felt.
I set out to do the 15k track and pushed harder the first 4k.
Then a twinge (a medical term for sore muscle type strain thingie) started in my left leg just below my calf muscle.
So I backed off the pace and headed up the hill for the next 2k. My twinge started to feel better so I got into a nice comfortable pace and headed home.
All up 15.3k at 4:51 pace.
I was happy with that!
My bosses wife runs with Intraining and on Wednesday night next week they are having their time trial and I might get a chance to get out there and see how I go.
For those of you thinking about doing the Lake Manchester trail run next year this is the elevation map. Even thought its a 33k run you will see mine was about 39.3k. Forgetting that the first hill is almost vertical and the next a doozy. Train hills for this run or you will regret it.
Ha and take a map, compass, epirb, two days supply of food,water and a gps.
No only jokes, just don't follow me.
Click on pic to see details.!
Take care !

Try and jog ?!?

It was cold cold cold and I had a slight strain in my left calf. "Take this one real easy" I said to myself. I walked up and down the street a couple of times trying to warm up a bit or getting the calf to feel any better.
"Bugger it" I started to jog and in my head wanted to do about 5:30/k or slower.
At about 3k the calf felt warm and the strain disappeared. I didn't want to see my pace but had top pull myself back on the flats. I could feel my legs wanting to stride but I kept them short.
Dam it was still cold and the odd breeze would crawl around and go down my back.
6k and I was feeling better and still holding the legs back.
Home in 8.5k and to my surprise 5:08 pace ?
It honestly felt like a very easy run and I supposed it was not a long run and these days anything under 10-12k doesn't count as a run.
Oh well maybe a rest tonight or stretch the legs again with a jog ?
Take care

rain rain go away - not !

I had to almost force myself out the door.
Tied lazy call it what you like I had run out of excuses. I made a bet with myself that I could only use an excuse one not to go running. I don't have any sane or logical excuses left.
So I said to myself "OK easy quick run" trying to get it over and done with.
But after the first 3k it all came back and the buzz was there.
Anyway 16.5k at 4:58 pace and I was happy.
The rain is back and I've used that excuse not to go running so tonight 8-12k easy.
Take care

Rain, wind and cold !

A nice easy 25k on Saturday morning @5:30 pace.
I just didn't feel the best and my mood matched the weather.
Well done to all those who ran in the Gold Coast Marathon.
I will be there next year !
Next is Flinders tour so a few more long runs to stretch the legs and I will aim to take this one easy.
The start will see me doing about 5:30 pace and I will try hold it there for as long as the track allows!
Then again 6 min pace also sounds good. No rush just get the long run in and finish comfortably !
Tonight 15-18k easy, no very easy !
Take care

8k push !

After talking to a friend who trains with Intraining and reading about PCRG time trails I thought I would give myself a time trail. I know most of them are 3-5k but I don't have any of those distances marked out or a nice flat coarse. The only coarse I have marked as a distance under 10k is a 8k course.
I do find it hard to really push myself training alone but I do have the motivation.
So after a 2k warm up I started the 8k time trail. No starters gun, no adrenaline flowing through the veins, no crowd of runners and no start line. The first 700m is up hill and I didn't want to burn out so I didn't push hard till the road leveled out. Second hill at 2.5k and again at 5k and 9k then run down to home.
At 3k a quick check 4:40 pace. At 5k another quick check 4:37 pace.
Overall a 4:35 pace for 8.3k and I was happy with that, sort of !
I must try make a plan to get out to one of these time trails and really push myself.
Maybe there is life left in these old legs !
Ha
Take care

Queenslander !

Wooohooo !
I got home in time for a shower and sat down just as the ball kicked off.
What a game !
I set off at 6:25pm and a nice easy 15k.
Coming home the lat 3k I had energy to burn and could have pushed harder but didn't.
I swear I was doing 5:15 pace but when I got home and looked at garmin there it was 4:57 pace.
It felt pretty easy and I felt good.
Tomorrow night an easy 10k then rest and pick a long run for the weekend.
Not happy to miss out on Gold Coast Marathon but there is always next year.
Take care.

Still cold !

After a nice run on Sunday not including lack of fluids, last night was supposed to be fartlek.
I started easy then at about 1k my legs just felt good and pushed a bit harder.
My first sprint came at 2k then 3k then I hit a hill and felt as though I was running on the spot.
Next sprint at 5k and again at 7.5k, I was only watching the k's and thought my pace should be about 5:15-5:20 but the legs just kept striding out.
Next couple of sprints came at 10k and 13k. Then it was hold on home and a dash to finish.
All up 15.5k @ 4:55pace.
This is a pace I would like to do for 42.2k so I guess that's a plan/goal to achieve.
I must admit since starting this blog for my BrizVegas marathon training my goals seem to change a fair bit and my approach to training changed as well.
For the BrizVegas I had a plan but at the moment I have not set down a definite plan to stick to.
Hmmmmm......
I will put it on my to do list !
Take care

Another easyhalf

After another busy day yesterday and it seems as though the last month has been really busy. The calendar filled with scribbles, notes and countdowns to the next race. When I returned from Sydney my confidence was down and I was still trying to get rid of the dreaded flu, bug, thing.
The social outings and late night outs were great but the next day left me feeling tired and unmotivated.
Hence the reason to get a Running Group together so I have a motivating factor. Or at least a running buddy to say "come on lets go on a long run"
Ha !
Anyway rested Saturday and this morning did my ritual half.
A nice pace of 5:05/k and home in 1:45 for 21.5k.
Funny enough I did not take any water but only a gel and did not feel thirsty at any time.
But those gels don't go down real well without a drink to follow.
Monday night the farts then an ex Aussie rules footballer promised to take me on a sprint session from hell.
Bring it on (Famous last words)
Take care

Nice!

After yet another nights rest I decided to tackle a 15 k. The coldy flu thing is gone and I can breathe deeply without needing to cough.
I did not feel good till about 6k then things loosened up and the run home felt good.
I did manage to push the pace a few times and when I looked at my time a smile hit my face.
It was something I needed to see. After all that time off, time away from running and getting lost in a trail race, I was reassured I was still on track.
All up 15k at 4:55pace.
A long run this weekend should do the trick!
Take care

Head down bum up !

Back from Sydney and a well deserved break.
I am still at the tail end of this flu bug thing and it seems to just hang on.
Over the last two days I did put in a couple of 10k runs and to my surprise I ran under 5min per k both times!
My legs felt cr#p, I could not get into a rhythm or even feel good. But after a break you get that.
Anyway its time to get the body back in the groove and get hungry.
I am in the process of getting a running group together at Victoria Point and hopefully start a running club in the future. There are heaps of runners/joggers out this way but no clubs or groups to inspire or promote.
So the plan begins !
Take care

Lake Manchester run !

I knew I should not have gone from the time I woke up.
I thought I was at the end of my cough/flu/bug thing but when I woke up I had a headache and felt worse for ware. Being a stubborn male I decided to go anyway. It had to be below freezing temps and when I got there and opened the car door the cold hit me. Ouch it was cold. Tank girl said she checked local weather observations and it was 2deg. Better than zero !
The start of the race was nice, no hassles or pushing. At about 15k I was siting in about 8th place doing 5:15pace. This is when I could feel in my chest a slight discomfort, and to top it off I see a guy running back at me!. He tells me we have gone the wrong way !?!?. So we turn back and run to the intersection. Nope no markings on either track, no arrows, no tape nothing. Oh crap!
We head up the other track for a while till we hit a crossing. No foot prints on either side. Oh crap! We head back oh look someone is running towards us. That's when my heart sank and I gave up! F#ck I wanted to have a good run !
Any way to cut a long story short I did get lost one more time and as Garmin said 39.25k in a 33k race!
Bugger!

Never do that again !

What a week !
This cough just wont go away. 15k @5:00 pace on Monday night then the Team of the century origin ball on Tuesday night then a BIG night at the origin on Wednesday night. Getting home at 4:30am. A shower and go to work then get home last night and just CRASH !.
I will have a 12k on Saturday morning then Lake Manchester on Sunday.
That should do it.
Then start a fresh week and punish myself for enjoying life !
Take care

Busy Being busy !

It started Friday and ended Monday night. Yep the long weekend. But for me it was busy as hell looking at cars and a pop up camper van. I am getting tied of putting the tent up and packing up in the rain.
Anyway I did get a few runs in 12k @5:00 pace on Saturday morning and 18.5k @ 5:15 pace on Sunday morning.
I still have a bit of a cough but feel OK. Busy nights ahead with work and the State of origin so I don't think much running will get done. Which works out well as a forced taper !
Take care

Nice !

My right calf hurt a little the night before and as I got to about 2k last night it started again.
For some reason I decided to try some thing different. Normally most people would try and slow the pace or rest. But no the mere male in me said try going harder for a few k's and see what happens.
Well for about the 3rd time in my life trying something silly/stupid actually worked!
For the next 2k I almost sprinted then back to a run. And the calf felt good!
All up 15.5k at 4:56 pace and boy did that long hot shower feel good !
A long weekend and a couple of long runs in order. Then Lake Manchester next weekend for a nice 33k run.
My plan is to just run comfortably, no pushing or attacking hills.
Well we will see it could be another time to try something silly !

Trail run next !

Only a couple of weeks to the 33k Lake Manchester trail run and I don't feel I have trained enough for this run. But being a stubborn male and very competitive I will give it a go anyway.
This cough/throat thing is giving me the sh#ts. When I run I feel great but the morning cough , splutter and cough don't feel good.
Anyway a nice easy 14k last night at 5:05 pace and only had to dodge 2 cars, wow!
I did a tally on k's this year according to Garmin and now have a total of 1338.36km. This is bad news and good news. Bad news is the kayanos are overdue for change and good news is time to shop for new ones.
Take care

I know how he feels !

Not again !

I awoke with a niggle in my throat and boy did let out a few obcenaties.
I've had the flu now what ?
After a days work and slowly but surely my throat got worse. My voice got croaky and my mood changed to a rage against my throat.
Every time someone heard me on the phone or in person they would say "oh have you got a cold?" My response would get more aggression "NO it's just my throat!"
Anyway a quick run last night. I just went for an easy start and did a few sprints when I warmed up. All up 12k at 5:15 pace.
Tonight a rest or a run ?
I wanted to do the Russel Island half on 29th June but it is now postponed till August. ( because of an increase in people wanting to attend)
I did email them and let them know about the Noosa half at the same time and they would loose out on people going to that race.
So the plan changes again !
Take care

Wind rain wind rain and more rain !

Standing at the door looking out as the rain came down at an angle. With tree's leaning over and the sound of their leaves blocking out any other sounds I stepped out into it all and set off for another run.
At first it did not seem as bad as it looked but as I rounded a corner the wind hit me dead on and the rain really came down I just took a deep breath and kept on going.
I planned a 12k but decided to cut it short and just do 8k.
I stopped for a wee break at 4k and ran through a deep puddle at 5k (nice)
but was surprised to get home in 4:50 pace for 8.25k !
Tonight ?
Take care

Rain rain go away !

The rain is not the problem its the gale force winds. I did get up Saturday morning at 3:30 am to do a nice long run but even opening the door was a struggle. The winds were terrible and the rain was sideways. So back to bed I went.
I heard about a run at Mt Gravatt and was keen to give it a go but as with most things this weekend it was cancelled.
But Sunday Morning I had enough and went for a run anyway.
A nice 23k at 5:30m pace. I did get absolutely hammered on the way home and it was nice.
It was great to hear the Doomden run got a clear start and by the sounds of things a lot of PB's were set.
Take care

Rest time !

After 53k in 3 days it was time to rest the legs and get a good night sleep.
Being end of month usually means a couple of late nights at work but it is a necessary evil.
Tonight if all goes well will be fartleks over 15k.
I am starting to feel the rewards of training faster.
I probably need to go to a few sprint sessions to loosen up the legs .
Take care

Crispy pasta bake !

3 days 3 runs and the times got better and I felt better.
I didn't think alcohol would affect the body like that but there is now proof. Maybe this research will continue on for a few more years at varied intervals !
Ha
Last night I did not really have a plan except the pasta bake I put in the oven would take 45 mins. So as I ran down the road trying to decide on a track to take I notice a young man running about 500m ahead of me. That's when the competitive edge kicked in and I picked up the pace.
There was no way I could let this young whipper snapper get the better of me.
What was I thinking?
Anyway I passed him and just kept on running. I would have chatted with him but he had his ipod blaring and did not seem interested.
So as a result 15.3 k at 4:52 pace and a crispy pasta bake !
Take care

Sore legs no sleep

3 days off running trying to catch up on sleep and throw in a party. Not a good mix!.
A few too many drinks then throw in a few plate fulls of food and a late night / early morning and then back it all up with a run at 4am ?!?
What was I thinking ?
It was about -5 deg and I never felt like warming up. A very very slow 22k at 5:45 pace and my hands, arms and nose were frozen.
The long hot shower after was the only good thing about the run.
Sunday arvo another party and you would think common sense would step in and say "hey you remember this morning ?" No way.
Anyway my Monday run felt terrible. My legs felt heavy,sore and I didn't take any water. So when I hit about 14k I was thirsty!.
Alarm bells started to ring and at 15k I stopped at a park watering station and drank lots of water. All up 15.3k at 5:15 pace and felt terrible.
Tonight the farts again and take the rest of the week from there.
Take care

Skins !

I must have looked a sight but I was warm and comfortable.
My long black skins pants and white half top didn't leave much to the imagination. It's funny because when I was kickboxing we would wear thai pants and shadow box in the mirror looking a treat. I never batted an eye lid until one day a friend came to watch sparing night and watch us all warm up and get ready. Her first comment was "Do you know how silly you guy's look?"
It wasn't till then did I stand back and go "oh yeah we do ".
Anyway just a nice run last night 16.5k at 5:10 pace.
I managed to get home in time to watch the second half of the origin. Nuf said !

So far I am looking at the Flinders tour 50k in July as my next race and will set a plan very soon.
Then again I might slip in a half marathon between now and then.
Take care

Stroll in the park !

A nice easy 8k last night.
I had a really busy day and was not off my feet once.
So when it came to the time for a run I was already dog tied and an easy 8k at 5:10 pace did the trick.
I brought a skins half top for cold nights and will try it tonight during a nice 15-18k.
No pushing tonight just a stroll in the park !
Take care

Cold windy night

A very cold night but I got out and did my fart plan. A nice 15.1k with a steep hill at half way.

I started nice and easy and waited till about 2k before the first sprint. It felt good and I continued to take it easy. Another sprint at 3k and still felt good so I picked up the pace a little before the first hill then pushed again up the hill.

I settled back to an easy pace till the steep hill at 7.5k and headed up the hill pushing just a little.

I turned for home and pushed a bit harder. A nice negative split and an overall pace of 4:56. for 15.1k.
The farts are really starting to pay off.
Today might just be a easy 12k to warm the legs !

Who left the freezer open ?

Ouch !
How cold was it Sunday morning?
My body said it was -10 c with the wind chill factor. Ha Ha
A really easy 8k shaking and trying not to run fast. Dam it was cold, did i mention it was cold?
A nice easy pace 5:15 and when I got home the long hot shower really hit the spot.
Monday night back to the FARTS and I will try for 15-18k.
Take care all

Victoria Point to Cleveland and Back !

Well that was the plan. Victoria Point to Cleveland point and home. I left a little later than I normally do (4:30am) and it was nice and col but not cold. Heading out was nice and I felt really good. Over the islands was a spectacular show of lightning with some awesome flashes. But overhead was stars and very clear sky. My plan was to go about 5:45 pace for the whole run and come home strong the last 3k. With the lightning show and heaps of "giddays, good mornings and hey flossy!?!" from people along the way I never looked at Garmin till I hit 20k and I was just a touch over 5:40. With only 7.5k to go I pushed a little harder and my legs started to feel a bit sore.
All up 27.6k at 5:32 pace and the weekend begins.
Tomorrow an easy 8-12k.
Take care

Mc Donalds Splat !

It's been funny reading about people in Coolrunnings forum complaining about being swerved at by cars. I think I had it all. Swerved at, Beeped at, water baloons thrown at me, fireworks and the yelling of abuse. But last night out of the blue someone thought it funnny to not only litter but throw a Mc Donalds bag full of cr#p at me. Thankfully it just missed me and I was also rewarded with a finger from the person to remind me of my place.
Apart from that I set out for a run, no sprints, no farts, no anything, just a run. I did push a bit on the way home and ended up 15.5k at 5:01 pace.
I am still revising my race list for the year but I think it is nearly done !

I do have to say a big Thank you to TESSO who supports and encourages so many runners and runners blogs.

I am back !

Yipee, I know it sounds bad or like I am addicted to running but it was like a good fix of my favorite vice.
I did rest an extra day to make sure the terrible evil flu type thing was gone.
Then last night decided to go for an easy run and see how I felt.
Well 15.3k at 5:10 pace and felt really good. After a walk warm up and a mental gee up I started running and the legs wanted to go hard but I held them back till about 2k and put in a little burst.
Boy did that feel good!
The first hill felt even better and as I looked at the time splits this morning I did a negative split going home.
Wow!
I have planned out my runs for this year and will hopefully post them this week and set a few plans to get to my goals.
Take care

One more night !

One more night of rest should do the trick then ease back into it.
I need a race to set out a plan.
hmmmmmmm......
I think maybe a 50k to get me motivated !

YUK !

Yuk I hate colds and flu.
Early 3am Saturday morning I awoke to go for a long run but when I stood outside looking up at the stars my head and throat felt like cr#p.
Couple of days rest should do the trick.
Take care

Sore throat , YUK

This can't be happening !
I eat well, exercise regularly and drink in moderation. So why am I getting sick ?
Maybe I can run/sweat it out ?
A quick 11.5k fartlek last night with an overall pace of 5:10. First 3k easy then sprint 250 meters then recover run then sprint again. I chose all the hills and flats to do the sprints and rested on down hills. I felt really good and it seemed to clear up my throat a bit.
But this morning my throat felt YUK and I am talking very raspy.
Oh well rest up tonight and long run Saturday morning !
mmmmmmm........ I don't know where to yet but I am guessing to the water somewhere!
Take care and keep warm

Dead Koala !

The plan was to do fartlek for 15k. But as we all know life always seems to throw a spanner in the works. And by the time I actually got to put on the running shoes it was late. I needed to catch up on sleep and get things done at the same time. So I only had time for a quick run 10-12k.
But as I ran along the road my mind took over and I was in day dream land. A car flashed it's lights at me and reality was back. That's when I noticed a dead koala on side of the road. Not a very nice thing to see and I had to look away in disgust, how hard is it to swerve or slow down ?
It's not like a roo that jumps out in front of you these guy's move pretty slow.
Anyway by this stage I realized i was about 7.5k from home and made a quick u turn.
All up 15.5k at 5:10 pace and felt really good !

Thats why I'm easy !

I was going to rest last night but after a busy day i needed to unwind. I have not run with the Ipod for a while and so I strapped it on and went off for an easy slow jog/run to relax a bit.
The first song set the mood. Faith no more's "thats why I'm easy" I ran my 8k track around to Point O'halloran.
As I got to about 4k the smell of a BBQ hit me like a brick wall and when I eventually ran past the guy cooking out the front of his place I was well and truly hungry. He gave me a wave and said "Gee wiz mate I wish I had your energy" And I just laughed but what I was thinking was "gee wiz mate I wish I had your steak"
Anyway 8k at 5:15 pace with hunger pains!
Tonight 15k Fartlek
Take care

I dont like Mondays !

Sunday was a busy day digging gardens, house work ( oh yeah the necessary evil) and chopping trees. So when it was time for a run I was dog tired and ready for bed. Lucky for me Monday is a public holiday so I planned to do at least 23k in the morning.
4:00 am start and it was cold and every time a car or truck went past the wind went straight through me.
By the time I got to Raby bay at the waters edge I looked out over the bay and turned to head home. The pace was 5:35 by half way and it felt easy so I upped the pace and all up 24.5k at 5:28 pace.
A quick shower brekky and start digging again.
Take care

Out and back

A nice early start 3:30 am. The night before set out a plan to do 25k+ out to Cleveland point and back. It seemed an nice run with a few challenging hills to keep me honest, but after a night of not much sleep it was harder to face then most long runs. A nice slow start with no stretching ( I don't stretch before long runs as I have found the slow starts warm the legs up) and at 3k felt like this was all a big mistake. But as the run progressed I felt more confident and got into the groove (this is what I said to myself at the Brizzy Marathon at about 32k) Just get in the groove. Basically it means get the stride right and feel comfortable. At 12.5 k I turned to head home and made my way down to Rabybay, across a grass section and boy did the soft grass feel good. On my way home I felt better and better as the k"s ticked over.
All together 25.8k at 5:40 pace.
Home and hosed by 6am and had the rest of the day to get heaps done.
Tomorrow hopefully only 8k just to get the legs busy doing their thing !
Take care

Hills fast, flat slow !

For once the legs felt good going out to the 3k mark and it wasn't as cold as the night before. This meant I would head for the hills where I would attack them with gusto.
Another 2k before the first hill emerged and away I went feeling like man possessed.
Each hill seemed hard but I just kept pushing the legs harder up each one.
For some reason the down hills hurt a bit but on the flats I could get the stride out and felt good again to hit the next hill. Back at the 3k to go home I still had a few more hard runs left in me so I did a few more choosing cars or light posts to mark them out.
I am still staring blankly at the running calendar unable to see my next race and set down a plan.
Hmmmm.... No still nothing !
Rest tonight then 25+k Saturday morning.
Take care

Fartlek ?

Well after the Briz Vegas Marathon I was really happy with my endurance and at times during the race felt like I could do a few sprints. So my research lately has been on speed work and Fartlek training. I could have said Tempo training but it doesn't quite have the childish humour all males are accustomed to. "Hee hee he said fart" !. That's right don't expect us males to grow up soon.
Any way after a bit of research I have set a little plan to add some fartlek to my week nights.
Last night was the trial and I set out to run 3k as a warm up then do at least 6 good hard runs for 30 sec, recovering in between.
All up 15.3k and felt really good. The cold weather seems to help as I don't sweat as much.
Tonight the same but shorter sprints early and easy running the last 8 k.
Tesso asked whats next ? Good question!

I had a really bad Kurrawa to Duranbah run and my goal for that run this year is to get under the 5hours easy, and get down to 3:30 for the marathon.
In between there is a lot of races to do but I have plans (holidays and work) where I am out of beautiful Queensland. So for now........................

" Train hard, Keep fit, Stay injury free and Enjoy Running "

Let me have another look at the race calendar maybe there is another few races to enter in ......?!

Cold windy night

Where do all these niggles come from ? All day nothing then a hour before I head out for a run I get this little back pain that won't go away. My left knee starts to hurt and I get a mild headache. Is this the start of a cold ? Did I pull a muscle in my back ?
This is where us males thinking works in our favour. Oh bugger it just go running you girl.
I pushed out a 15k at 5:00 pace and felt really good. No niggles, no pains, no worries !
Tonight rest and eat up!
Oh boy was it a cold windy night !

Back on track.

After a couple of 8-9k recovery runs during the week that hurt a bit I decide to rest a few more days.
Normally Saturday morning is the long run but I slept in and boy oh boy was it nice.
All day Saturday it felt funny and I almost felt guilty I hadn't run. So I sat down on the computer and googled maped out a run to an area I hadn't run to. Raby bay. It measured out to 23k and if I felt good I could run on to Cleveland point. The plan was set and I could relax and enjoy the day.
Sunday morning was great, I started easy and kept the pace slow 5:40/k it was nice to see the first people at Cleveland setting up the markets. The bakery had a smell wafting down main street that made me weak in the knee's, thats when i decided to turn for home. A nice 22+k and next week i will run on to the point.
I did see a lot of young girls walking home and a couple throwing up, I guess they are the only people out at that time in the morninig ! (4am)
My legs feel good and I am getting back on track.
I got an email from Briz Marathon for my official time 3:59 17 a sub 4 yipee, easy !
Its time to plan the next race .

Rest ouch rest

A couple of days rest with tender legs was what I needed. But last night true to form I set off for a little run. An overall pace of 5:45 for 8.5k was all my legs would let me do. The up hills were nice but the down hills made me cry like a little girl ( I was going to say worse than child birth but it was worse than that) ha ha. But at one stage I am sure people could have mistook me for the late Cliff Young doing the shuffle.
So I will rest again tonight then go for at least a 12k hobble.
Take care

Brisbane Marathon !

The Brisbane Marathon.
I rested well the two days before Sunday and boy were my legs itchy to go running.
Sunday morning I awoke at about 4am ate a banana and drank some water. I lay back down and kept drinking sips of water every few minutes. At about 5am I started to get dressed and washed up( you have to look pretty for the pictures). At 5:30am I walked out to the kitchen and my Dad was waiting for me. Staying the night before the race at my parents was great with no distractions. My Dad dropped me off at the 42k sign and I walked to the finish. In the back of my mind thinking "Oh yeah that's how long this run is" It was like at a mad house with runners stretching, jogging pacing back and forth and groups of runners laughing off the nerves.
They had a line of about 12 portaloo's and a line of about 20 deep in runners waiting to go. All of a sudden I needed to go !.
Anyway to cut a long story short I started near the back of the pack so I would have to start easy. It took till about 3K before I had made my way through all the stragglers and settled down to a nice easy pace. It wasn't till 6k when I looked at Garmin to see I was running at about 5 min pace. ?. That cant be right, I thought to myself this feels easy. Dam I should have gone to the toilet. I could see the odd person dart off into the bushes but I for some reason thought my body would just absorb it ?!?
I saw my Dad on his bike at a few of the turns and along the river. He kept asking how I was.
I sat with the 1:50 group and it was nice easy running.
Second half as the 1:50 pace group disappeared to the finish line I ran on to do the second lap.
Two bites of a yellow snake and I spat it out. Not my colour I guess. I had downed two gels by now and was feeling good but still needed to go No.1's. There was a gap of runners at the next turn around so I just whipped it out and did it while running! I know a few people will say ewe but I was not going to stop. All was feeling good till I hit 38k then my legs got heavy and I walked at a drink station to really get the fluids into me. I kept running till I hit the last crossing of the Goodwill bridge and walked up the first bit. Then it was a run home to the finish. Yep I saw the 42k sign again and a smile hit my face. I saw the clock and I was going to make it under 4hrs yippee that's all I wanted. Wow that was great and I am still on a high after the race.
Thanks go to Intraining who put on a great race day and the volunteer's/ helpers were fantastic.
Take care.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.

After another busy day it was time to sit back and ride the couch. Yeah right !
Murphy's law was back again, like it never left. All my plans of kicking back enjoying a night in ended when I got home. After all the drama's of life ended I finally started to put my race gear together in a bag and make sure my parents new I was staying at their place the night before. They have a lovely penthouse in Roma Street parklands and it is a lot closer than Victoria point.
Bag is packed and this afternoon I am off to the expo to get my race pack.
I am still not sure which way I am going to carry my gels in the race but looking online yesterday I saw a fuel belt just for that purpose so I might have to go into Active Stride at Southbank for a look.
Maybe a light run tonight just to get the legs back in gear and again on Saturday.
Take care

Even better !

Well the day just dragged on and it seemed as though it would never end.
Isn't it funny how time flys in day to day life then as you wait for a day time seems to slow and just tease you.
Anyway another 13k last night at 5:15 pace nice and easy. Along the way I did a few strides to break the run up a bit.
My plan has been set and I will be going for a sub 4 hour marathon. All my gear will be sorted tonight and the waiting games begins again.
I am a little disappointed at the Bridge to Brisbane being cut back to 10k but not as disappointed as I was after booking and planning my trip to Toowoomba last year for the hilly half. I still cant believe it was cancelled. I was so looking forward to it and I trained lots of hills just to make it easy.
Take care

Oh it feels good !

After a days rest and eating whatever cr*p I had cravings for ( sounds like a pregnant woman), I went out for a very easy 12k(5:15 pace) last night and boy did that feel good.
I pulled the full length skins out from the back of the drawer and some nice thick socks. The wind was howling and cold so my stretches and warm up took a bit longer just to feel ready.
But true to form by the time I hit 6k I had gone through every niggle and little pain my body through at me. Its funny after reading an article about runners having panic attacks during their tapers because all of a sudden they get muscle pains and niggly injuries they have never had before suddenly crop up. I too started to feel these for the first time ?!. Its amazing how the mind works. I get these all the time and they never bothered me before.
Oh well 5 more days and we get it on !
Feeling good and ready to go (again)
take care

A well earned rest !

It was a fight against my running legs not to run last night. I felt really anxious and I just want this marathon to be over. My focus is already looking ahead and trying to decide on a 50k or another marathon in a few months. Yep the mind was dreaming up all sorts of races and what I am going to do. But it took a couple of good hard slaps on the face to get myself back to this weekend. Focus baby, just focus. No nerves, no fuss, I have done the training and feel good about what I have done. I sat down and read a few stories about the comrades in South Africa and yes the mind wondered off there as well, but it was all for a good cause as I was reading different peoples race plans and preparations. I will plan mine out tomorrow night after a 12-15k run.
I have done this in my head a few hundred times but I will actually write it down and read it.
Oh yeah it's funny how when you write something out then read it and go "What does that mean ?"
I watched Fat Brother last night, ate very well and lay on the couch and thought, Wow this is how the other half live !

The Count Down Begins !

A nice rest day on Friday, coupled with a couple of beers and a nice red had me really relaxed.
Early to bed and a good sleep had me jumping up for the early morning run. (4am)
I planned about 20 k+ and at about 22k felt really good and comfortable so I bypassed home and did an extra 4k. 26k all up at a nice 5:40 pace. Wow the water looks really good that time in the morning. A bit of orange and blue and just the odd sound of a boat driving down the bay.
I did again have a wallaby hopping along the road edge with me but he was looking for a break in the fence to get away from me.
Sunday morning I put in a very easy 8k and spotted a coolrunner on my way home but I was so deep in thought that it didn't register till I was about 500m away from him. I had a busy day planned so there was no chasing him down just for a chat. But I am sure I will see him again.
The count down has begun and with a week to go I feel like I am running on the spot.
I will rest tonight or a little run ?!? hmmmmmmm .....
I hate tapers !

No rest for the wicked !

It was supposed to be a rest night. You know those nights where you kick back lounge around watching T.V. and eat nice food with no rush or care in the world.
Well that plan fell out the window when my day at work (oh yes that horrible word) was like out of a movie or soap opera! I will spare you the details but WOW what is the world coming to? Society has changed over the years for the worst.
To cut a long story short I went for a light run to clear my head. It was supposed to be about 5k really easy and even walk if my brain was getting too preoccupied with thought. But true to form I ran on auto pilot and did the 10k track in5:15 pace really easy.
Tonight I shall rest !
AAAAAAAAAAGH !!!!!!!!!
OK I feel better now !

I love it when a plan comes together !

I love it when a plan comes together !
In the words of the "A Team" Wow that shows my age !
A nice run of only 10k but I felt really good and came home with a smile on my face.
I am ready ! ( i know this statement will come back and bite me).
I am trying so hard to not get injured or burn the legs too hard but I really enjoy the running at the moment and the high just makes it worse.
Rest tonight and aim for a 15-18k the next night.
This should be a very easy run no pushing or sprints. But there will be hills and oh boy do I love the hills !

It had to happen !

It had to happen sooner or later.
Most times out running early or late at night cars drive past and either honk their horn, yell something or just give a wave. But over the years I have been water bombed (not a bad thing when its hot) or had cr#p thrown at me. Mostly from people coming home from clubs/pubs early in the morning. But last night about 7 pm during a really good run I had fireworks thrown my way and F#ck me did I jump about 6 foot in the air. I tell you what the adrenalin rush had me upping the pace for a while. Apart from that great experience 15.5k done in 5 min k's and felt really good. I cant wait for this marathon.
I hate the taper and want to just keep on running.
I have read a lot about this topic lately and so many ideas around, I just need to find my groove.
Wow that's out of the seventies !
But what is best for me ?
More research on the subject and decide on a plan and stick to it.