missed training ... and other stuff

Yesterday, for the first time in at least four months I decided to rearrange my training at short notice.

It wasn't that I was too tired or too lazy or ill ... I had a wedding to attend.   I figured that I could miss one run and one stretching session in order to go to what I hope will be the happiest day of my friend's life.   It was a wonderful occasion and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves.  I hope John and Donna have many happy year's together (and no sad ones).

I did manage to fit in my usual strength and conditioning exercises in the morning before I left home.

As well as a piece about William Sichel and the upcoming 1000 mile race in Athens there is, in the current issue of Athletics Weekly, an article about the death of ultra running legend Cavin Woodward.  His 100 mile world record of 11h 38:54 in 1975 at Tipton was a truly remarkable race ... en route he also broke world records for 50 miles, 100 km and 150 km.  Andy Milroy's article about the race is essential reading.

My condolences to his family and friends.

One less ultra

Forgot to mention earlier ... last Tuesday Mick Jeffrey apologised for not including Andy Milroy's 100 mile race report in the newsletter he was editing. He said he ended up with enough articles from other sources and perhaps it would be better in March when I'm editing Otley AC's newsletter.

Today I've just found out that the Rochdale Canal Relay (ultra runners are invited to take part as a one man team) will not take part this year due to a 'change in circumstances' [whatever that means].

I was looking forward to that one in early June.

Recovery is not progressing as well now. My last two runs were only given 94 and 95 points. Still very optimistic though and the cycling, eccentric ankle stretches, massage, strength exercises all seem to be working. Today I ran 5 mins, walked 5 mins, ran 5 mins, etc for a total of one hour.

Otley AC Newsletter

February's Otley AC Newsletter arrived yesterday without Andy Milroy's report of the Tipton 100 mile race in 1975 (see blog from 31 Jan). Not sure why ... ultra ist perhaps.

Today's 45 min outing went almost perfectly. The only minor hiccup was when running uphill for a while at 20 - 22 mins.

Well pleased with this.

Rest day tomorrow.

Received an email this morning from Mick Jeffrey who's editing the next Otley AC newsletter. Apparently he's having trouble persuading members to contribute race reviews, articles, etc. After a suitable period of deliberation I sent him a piece written by Andy Milroy about the famous 100 mile race of 1975.

It may be a bit long but it can be edited and I'm sure Andy Milroy won't mind as long as he receives due credit. I hope it makes the newsletter as I find it very motivational and inspirational ... I hope other runners will too.