Weather improving ... ankle improving again after a less than pain free few runs midweek ... things are looking good again.
Today's 40 minutes run, for instance, took me up the valley to the village of Burley in Wharfedale and on the way back I came across Zack Whitehead and we ran together back into Otley. Zack has been running recently after a few years out of the sport because of a knee injury. If he can get back to running the sort of times he was five years ago that will be a great boost for Otley AC. Good to see him back running - enjoying it too.
My run, for no reason at all, was a over 15s per km quicker than expected. I have noticed recently that I do seem to be running a bit further in the time allowed. I guess my speed is returning as my fitness improves.
On Tuesday next week we travel to Belfast to help Keir tie up the loose ends regarding accommodation, etc at the end of his first year at university. And he wants us to help carry all the stuff he has to bring home. It's his birthday on Wednesday so we'll do something a bit special while we're there but he has recently acquired a girlfriend which we'll meet for the first time. Apparently she's very nervous about meeting me and Fay ... that's OK though because we're quite nervous about meeting her.
Next Saturday I plan to run another race but I'm undecided between the Kirkby Malzeard 10k or the local parkrun 5k.
Showing posts with label Fay. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fay. Show all posts
Saturday, 25 May 2013
Tuesday, 7 May 2013
Fay and me
As regular readers will know Fay and I recently celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. We didn't really know how to celebrate this milestone (not having done that before ...) but, in the end, we decided to go back to the place we spent our honeymoon. Not the same hotel - I don't think that exists any more - but the same part of the world.
I suppose the story starts back in early 1985, a few months before Fay's 18th birthday. We decided, without much fanfare, that we would get engaged on her 18th birthday and married on her 21st. Between mid 1985 and April 1988 we hardly talked about marriage at all but we hadn't forgotten.
In March or April 1988 (I forget which) I secretly organised a wedding for us. We both knew what we wanted - a quiet marriage with a minimum of fuss. And that included nobody from our respective families and no large party afterwards. On the first of May I asked Fay if she still wanted to marry me - the answer was 'yes' so I told her what plans I had made. Bradford Register Office three days later, 4.00pm.
At that point we still didn't have a ring but that was no problem, on the morning of the wedding we went and bought one - but the one Fay liked was a bit too small, hmmmm. After explaining the situation to the jeweller he agreed to try and stretch the patterned band of gold a tiny bit. But we had to go back at 3.00pm to collect it.
As the time approached we remembered that we needed two witnesses ... no problem, I'm sure these two passer's by wouldn't mind helping out for a short while. Luckily they agreed and our wedding went ahead without a hitch. Afterwards we adjourned to McDonalds and laughed quietly to ourselves about what we had done.
Our honeymoon was spent on the wonderful Gower Peninsula in south Wales. We were there five or six days touring the area and it's beautifully unspoilt beaches, coves and villages.
We realised we had to tell our families sooner or later so we arranged two trips and two bottles of champagne to help break the news. Of course some people were not happy that they had missed out on a wedding. Tough. It's our life ... we'll do it our way.
Twenty five years later the whole area is still an undiscovered gem of a place with many quiet beaches and bays which are absolutely stunning on the sunny days we were there.
PS ... all the best to the UK runners in Steenbergen at the weekend. Hope you all have a good one, and injury free.
PPS ... the same for William Sichel in a six day race he's running in Hungary (I believe Sharon Gayter will be there too).
PPPS ... also all the best to the other runners I know who are running in Steenbergen (Torill F, Sharon S, David K, etc).
I suppose the story starts back in early 1985, a few months before Fay's 18th birthday. We decided, without much fanfare, that we would get engaged on her 18th birthday and married on her 21st. Between mid 1985 and April 1988 we hardly talked about marriage at all but we hadn't forgotten.
In March or April 1988 (I forget which) I secretly organised a wedding for us. We both knew what we wanted - a quiet marriage with a minimum of fuss. And that included nobody from our respective families and no large party afterwards. On the first of May I asked Fay if she still wanted to marry me - the answer was 'yes' so I told her what plans I had made. Bradford Register Office three days later, 4.00pm.
At that point we still didn't have a ring but that was no problem, on the morning of the wedding we went and bought one - but the one Fay liked was a bit too small, hmmmm. After explaining the situation to the jeweller he agreed to try and stretch the patterned band of gold a tiny bit. But we had to go back at 3.00pm to collect it.
As the time approached we remembered that we needed two witnesses ... no problem, I'm sure these two passer's by wouldn't mind helping out for a short while. Luckily they agreed and our wedding went ahead without a hitch. Afterwards we adjourned to McDonalds and laughed quietly to ourselves about what we had done.
Our honeymoon was spent on the wonderful Gower Peninsula in south Wales. We were there five or six days touring the area and it's beautifully unspoilt beaches, coves and villages.
We realised we had to tell our families sooner or later so we arranged two trips and two bottles of champagne to help break the news. Of course some people were not happy that they had missed out on a wedding. Tough. It's our life ... we'll do it our way.
Twenty five years later the whole area is still an undiscovered gem of a place with many quiet beaches and bays which are absolutely stunning on the sunny days we were there.
PS ... all the best to the UK runners in Steenbergen at the weekend. Hope you all have a good one, and injury free.
PPS ... the same for William Sichel in a six day race he's running in Hungary (I believe Sharon Gayter will be there too).
PPPS ... also all the best to the other runners I know who are running in Steenbergen (Torill F, Sharon S, David K, etc).
Sunday, 7 April 2013
more ramblings ...
I know I haven't posted for a while but until I can start training and racing properly again I don't really have much say.
Everything is looking up though at the moment, especially in the early morning spring sunshine. Running at the break of dawn has been a real boost for me and I feel a renewed sense of wanting to get back to running for more than a few miles at a time.
Still must stick to the schedule though. That in itself is good training ... good mental discipline to stick so rigidly to a schedule for such a prolonged period.
The recent holiday period was good, especially as Keir finally managed to get here ... and then managed to get back to Northern Ireland without any problems despite the threat of more snow. We didn't hang around at the airport any longer than we needed to as Leeds Bradford Airport is a very cold place even in summer. Being situated on the top of a very large hill doesn't help.
Between training I've been helping Fay with decorating and fixing things about the house. Note that I'm only helping, Fay is much better at decorating than me so I let her get on with it. She enjoys it much more than I do too. Her recent health scare is well and truly in the past now too.
Although Fiona's is still ongoing and will be for quite some time probably.
Anyway that's enough of me rambling on for now ... more later.
Everything is looking up though at the moment, especially in the early morning spring sunshine. Running at the break of dawn has been a real boost for me and I feel a renewed sense of wanting to get back to running for more than a few miles at a time.
Still must stick to the schedule though. That in itself is good training ... good mental discipline to stick so rigidly to a schedule for such a prolonged period.
The recent holiday period was good, especially as Keir finally managed to get here ... and then managed to get back to Northern Ireland without any problems despite the threat of more snow. We didn't hang around at the airport any longer than we needed to as Leeds Bradford Airport is a very cold place even in summer. Being situated on the top of a very large hill doesn't help.
Between training I've been helping Fay with decorating and fixing things about the house. Note that I'm only helping, Fay is much better at decorating than me so I let her get on with it. She enjoys it much more than I do too. Her recent health scare is well and truly in the past now too.
Although Fiona's is still ongoing and will be for quite some time probably.
Anyway that's enough of me rambling on for now ... more later.
Thursday, 14 March 2013
Fay and Fiona
OK I know that title is a bit strange but there is a good reason.
Let's start with Fiona. She's a Scottish ultra runner who is seriously ill at the minute - and not for the first time. She's a lovely woman who needs all the support she can get, and if she reads this she should know that I really do wish her all the best. I know she'll make a full recovery - she's a tough cookie, that one.
Now let's move on to Fay. On Tuesday evening, at home, we had a little 'episode'. Well, quite a major episode as it turned out. She began feeling unwell at about 6:00pm and at 7:45pm I phoned for an ambulance which took us to the A & E in Leeds.
We were there until 3 o'clock the following morning when the doctors finally managed to sort out what was wrong and get things under control. I'm not going to go into great detail (you really don't want me to ...) but the problem was that the new contraception we're using had caused a blood disorder.
For a menstruating woman, having blood that doesn't clot is not good.
Happy to report that everything is under control now but it was quite scary on Tuesday evening/Wednesday morning.
There was light hearted moment when we finally got home though. Fay said to me: "I know you're supposed to go for a run after breakfast but why don't you go now (4 am). You're tired and it's dark outside, it'll be just like a 24 hour race. You'll enjoy it."
I politely declined on the grounds that I was too tired. But really I wanted to keep an eye on her to make sure everything was OK. It is, and everything's back to normal.
Let's start with Fiona. She's a Scottish ultra runner who is seriously ill at the minute - and not for the first time. She's a lovely woman who needs all the support she can get, and if she reads this she should know that I really do wish her all the best. I know she'll make a full recovery - she's a tough cookie, that one.
Now let's move on to Fay. On Tuesday evening, at home, we had a little 'episode'. Well, quite a major episode as it turned out. She began feeling unwell at about 6:00pm and at 7:45pm I phoned for an ambulance which took us to the A & E in Leeds.
We were there until 3 o'clock the following morning when the doctors finally managed to sort out what was wrong and get things under control. I'm not going to go into great detail (you really don't want me to ...) but the problem was that the new contraception we're using had caused a blood disorder.
For a menstruating woman, having blood that doesn't clot is not good.
Happy to report that everything is under control now but it was quite scary on Tuesday evening/Wednesday morning.
There was light hearted moment when we finally got home though. Fay said to me: "I know you're supposed to go for a run after breakfast but why don't you go now (4 am). You're tired and it's dark outside, it'll be just like a 24 hour race. You'll enjoy it."
I politely declined on the grounds that I was too tired. But really I wanted to keep an eye on her to make sure everything was OK. It is, and everything's back to normal.
Monday, 25 February 2013
thoughts for today
This morning, for the first time since last August, I went somewhere and ran home. Only 30 minutes mind but it's a start ... slowly getting back to normal.
Not that many people think I'm normal in any way. But that's OK with me.
Fay was going shopping this morning in Guiseley (about 6 km from here) so she suggested buying me a coffee before I left her to run home. Brilliant idea.
And talking about ideas ... I've decided to run the Leeds 5k parkrun on 9 March and Fay has already agreed to resume her role as 'bag person'. I'm due to run for 60 minutes on that day anyway so I can easily incorporate a 5k run at a slightly faster pace than normal !!!
And in early May Fay and I have decided to have short walking holiday in the Yorkshire Dales to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. We were talking over a couple of cups of coffee (one each, of course ...) this morning and we decided that there's no real need for us to spend a fortune just because we've been married 25 years. Twenty five is no different really to 24 or 26 and there's no doubt we'll be together for a long time to come. Barring accidents and illnesses of course.
Not that many people think I'm normal in any way. But that's OK with me.
Fay was going shopping this morning in Guiseley (about 6 km from here) so she suggested buying me a coffee before I left her to run home. Brilliant idea.
And talking about ideas ... I've decided to run the Leeds 5k parkrun on 9 March and Fay has already agreed to resume her role as 'bag person'. I'm due to run for 60 minutes on that day anyway so I can easily incorporate a 5k run at a slightly faster pace than normal !!!
And in early May Fay and I have decided to have short walking holiday in the Yorkshire Dales to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. We were talking over a couple of cups of coffee (one each, of course ...) this morning and we decided that there's no real need for us to spend a fortune just because we've been married 25 years. Twenty five is no different really to 24 or 26 and there's no doubt we'll be together for a long time to come. Barring accidents and illnesses of course.
Wednesday, 26 December 2012
rehab notes
I hope everyone has had a good Christmas.
I spent a very enjoyable day with Fay and Keir. Following our family tradition of alternating cooking responsibilities on 25 December it was Fay's turn this year.
While she was in the kitchen I went for a run, the last of this stage of my rehab. I had been alternating 5 minutes running with 5 minutes walking, beginning with a total of 10 minutes and building up to a total of 70 minutes. As many of you will know, I score these type of runs according to how 'injury free' I feel whilst running. 100% is perfect.
So far the training has gone: 90%, 92%, 90%, 98%, 90%, 95%, 90%, 97%, 97%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 97%, 97%
That's a small but definite improvement over the two weeks so I'm pleased with that. Especially as most of the aches I'm feeling seem to be because I had such a long enforced lay off rather than because of the injury itself. And illness.
Today's run was the first of the next stage which involves running without the walking breaks. Starting at 10 minutes and building up to an hour. Non stop.
In this morning's 10 minutes I ran 1.95 k (1.21 miles) but distance isn't in the least bit important at this stage - it's time on my feet that counts. At 96% the run was perhaps better than I expected considering I hadn't run 10 minutes non stop for more than 15 weeks.
Day off tomorrow then 10 more minutes on Friday.
I spent a very enjoyable day with Fay and Keir. Following our family tradition of alternating cooking responsibilities on 25 December it was Fay's turn this year.
While she was in the kitchen I went for a run, the last of this stage of my rehab. I had been alternating 5 minutes running with 5 minutes walking, beginning with a total of 10 minutes and building up to a total of 70 minutes. As many of you will know, I score these type of runs according to how 'injury free' I feel whilst running. 100% is perfect.
So far the training has gone: 90%, 92%, 90%, 98%, 90%, 95%, 90%, 97%, 97%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 97%, 97%
That's a small but definite improvement over the two weeks so I'm pleased with that. Especially as most of the aches I'm feeling seem to be because I had such a long enforced lay off rather than because of the injury itself. And illness.
Today's run was the first of the next stage which involves running without the walking breaks. Starting at 10 minutes and building up to an hour. Non stop.
In this morning's 10 minutes I ran 1.95 k (1.21 miles) but distance isn't in the least bit important at this stage - it's time on my feet that counts. At 96% the run was perhaps better than I expected considering I hadn't run 10 minutes non stop for more than 15 weeks.
Day off tomorrow then 10 more minutes on Friday.
Wednesday, 14 November 2012
a difficult one to write
OK here goes ...
this isn't going to be easy but ...
On Wednesday 23 October (seems such a long time ago now) I saw the specialists in Leeds and had lots of tests, etc and then came the results. Basically the original sprains were much worse than previously thought and included damage to ligaments, tendons and bones. Ouch.
Basically there is no way I should have gone to Northern Ireland with Keir and Fay one week after the injury. I should have been in hospital (or at home) recovering from surgery apparently.
The scans and x-rays showed that healing was taking place without surgery but it was likely to be a long process.
On Friday 2 November I ventured outside. Feeling good I alternated 5 minutes walking with 5 minutes running for about 3.5 miles (5.6 km). Much better than when I last tried that two weeks earlier - a definite and marked improvement. All is not lost I thought.
A couple of days ago I saw the medical men again and had more tests so they can assess how quickly healing is taking place (or not) and I've been told to repeat my last 'run' on Friday this week, using how my ankle felt on 2 November as a benchmark. I then have to email the doc on Saturday with full details of how it went.
I have been warned though, that I may never return to competitive running.
There's something to think about. And I have. Lots.
Takes me back to 1994 and an clinic appointment in Bradford a year or two after having half my right lung removed. The conversation went something like this:
new student doctor: "I understand you were a runner before you had cancer Mr Carver, what distances and pbs ?"
me: "lots of running for my school and road races since then. 10k pb of 34:21 with about 90 miles (145 km) per week training."
student doctor: "hmm ... I don't think you'll be running quite that much in future."
me: "don't be silly. If physically can run, I will run. I may not run 10k in 35 minutes ever again but there's no doubt at all I'll still be running."
Within three years of that conversation I was running 100 miles (161 km) per week and had new pbs for 5k, 5 miles and half marathon. I later set a new personal best at 10 miles and ran 10k in less than 35 minutes two further times.
The point is ... I will be back out there. HAVE NO DOUBT. Hopefully in 2013 but we'll have to wait and see.
Apologies for this post being a bit random and haphazard - that's how my running thoughts are at the moment. See you all at my next ultra.
this isn't going to be easy but ...
On Wednesday 23 October (seems such a long time ago now) I saw the specialists in Leeds and had lots of tests, etc and then came the results. Basically the original sprains were much worse than previously thought and included damage to ligaments, tendons and bones. Ouch.
Basically there is no way I should have gone to Northern Ireland with Keir and Fay one week after the injury. I should have been in hospital (or at home) recovering from surgery apparently.
The scans and x-rays showed that healing was taking place without surgery but it was likely to be a long process.
On Friday 2 November I ventured outside. Feeling good I alternated 5 minutes walking with 5 minutes running for about 3.5 miles (5.6 km). Much better than when I last tried that two weeks earlier - a definite and marked improvement. All is not lost I thought.
A couple of days ago I saw the medical men again and had more tests so they can assess how quickly healing is taking place (or not) and I've been told to repeat my last 'run' on Friday this week, using how my ankle felt on 2 November as a benchmark. I then have to email the doc on Saturday with full details of how it went.
I have been warned though, that I may never return to competitive running.
There's something to think about. And I have. Lots.
Takes me back to 1994 and an clinic appointment in Bradford a year or two after having half my right lung removed. The conversation went something like this:
new student doctor: "I understand you were a runner before you had cancer Mr Carver, what distances and pbs ?"
me: "lots of running for my school and road races since then. 10k pb of 34:21 with about 90 miles (145 km) per week training."
student doctor: "hmm ... I don't think you'll be running quite that much in future."
me: "don't be silly. If physically can run, I will run. I may not run 10k in 35 minutes ever again but there's no doubt at all I'll still be running."
Within three years of that conversation I was running 100 miles (161 km) per week and had new pbs for 5k, 5 miles and half marathon. I later set a new personal best at 10 miles and ran 10k in less than 35 minutes two further times.
The point is ... I will be back out there. HAVE NO DOUBT. Hopefully in 2013 but we'll have to wait and see.
Apologies for this post being a bit random and haphazard - that's how my running thoughts are at the moment. See you all at my next ultra.
Friday, 14 September 2012
injury ... university ... stats
Let me begin by getting one thing straight ... for a few days after a 24 hour race my head is all over the place (always has been) and I'm prone to making silly mistakes and doing a few stupid things [please don't mention DIY to Fay]. This time the big error was in the last post and, just to correct any errors, it is my RIGHT foot and ankle that is injured, not my left.
Yesterday was the first day since arriving home that I've been able to walk unaided - still painful and slow though. And painfully slow !!! I'll keep using ibuprofen for at least another week but ice and rest won't be so easy to come by after tomorrow. Three toes are still strapped up - including both big toes.
Tomorrow is the day Keir goes to university. So Fay and I are going (with Keir) to Coleraine in Northern Ireland for a few days to help with accommodation, shopping, etc. We'll be back (without him) on Wednesday and I'm not going to post anything until else then at the very earliest. I'll probably be too busy anyway.
Training for my next race begins then. Cycling, stretching and weight training ... not sure about running, we'll see how things progress whilst I'm in Northern Ireland.
Thanks to everyone for all the kind words on Facebook, this blog, by email and in person. They're much appreciated and really have helped ease the disappointment of only 231 km. Disappointed with 231 km - that sounds ridiculous but it is exactly how I felt.
At this moment in time I can't say whether they'll be a full race report. They probably will be but it'll be a few weeks late as rehab and university are taking up all my spare time at the moment.
OK let me finish with a few stats of which I'm very proud. I've now taken part in ten 24 hour races and what follows is a summary:
pb ... 238.286 km
average of best 2 performances ... 234.896 km
average of best 3 performances ... 233.711 km
average of best 4 performances ... 232.286 km
average of best 5 performances ... 230.381 km
average of best 6 performances ... 228.924 km
average of best 7 performances ... 227.752 km
average of best 8 performances ... 224.912 km
average of best 9 performances ... 222.439 km
average of all 10 performances ... 218.381 km
average of 2 most recent races ... 226.029 km
average of 3 most recent races ... 230.115 km
average of 4 most recent races ... 228.276 km
average of 5 most recent races ... 228.922 km
average of 6 most recent races ... 228.770 km
average of 7 most recent races ... 227.752 km
average of 8 most recent races ... 224.615 km
average of 9 most recent races ... 222.439 km
Yesterday was the first day since arriving home that I've been able to walk unaided - still painful and slow though. And painfully slow !!! I'll keep using ibuprofen for at least another week but ice and rest won't be so easy to come by after tomorrow. Three toes are still strapped up - including both big toes.
Tomorrow is the day Keir goes to university. So Fay and I are going (with Keir) to Coleraine in Northern Ireland for a few days to help with accommodation, shopping, etc. We'll be back (without him) on Wednesday and I'm not going to post anything until else then at the very earliest. I'll probably be too busy anyway.
Training for my next race begins then. Cycling, stretching and weight training ... not sure about running, we'll see how things progress whilst I'm in Northern Ireland.
Thanks to everyone for all the kind words on Facebook, this blog, by email and in person. They're much appreciated and really have helped ease the disappointment of only 231 km. Disappointed with 231 km - that sounds ridiculous but it is exactly how I felt.
At this moment in time I can't say whether they'll be a full race report. They probably will be but it'll be a few weeks late as rehab and university are taking up all my spare time at the moment.
OK let me finish with a few stats of which I'm very proud. I've now taken part in ten 24 hour races and what follows is a summary:
pb ... 238.286 km
average of best 2 performances ... 234.896 km
average of best 3 performances ... 233.711 km
average of best 4 performances ... 232.286 km
average of best 5 performances ... 230.381 km
average of best 6 performances ... 228.924 km
average of best 7 performances ... 227.752 km
average of best 8 performances ... 224.912 km
average of best 9 performances ... 222.439 km
average of all 10 performances ... 218.381 km
average of 2 most recent races ... 226.029 km
average of 3 most recent races ... 230.115 km
average of 4 most recent races ... 228.276 km
average of 5 most recent races ... 228.922 km
average of 6 most recent races ... 228.770 km
average of 7 most recent races ... 227.752 km
average of 8 most recent races ... 224.615 km
average of 9 most recent races ... 222.439 km
Wednesday, 5 September 2012
last post
Well, that's it for now. A short while ago I completed my last training session before leaving for Poland tomorrow. It was 7 x 200m in 42.7s each with a 200m jog recovery. Except that my time was about 40s each.
This morning was my last session of strength work - core mainly but also a bit of work on the legs. Right now I feel better prepared than for any of my previous 24 hr races. I'm also very aware that in long ultra races fitness is not necessarily a good indicator of performance ... there are so many other factors to consider such as nutrition, hydration, weather, crew, blisters, electrolytes, etc. I believe I've got them all covered but if I've missed anything I'm sure some other member of team GB will be able to help out.
Between the strength work early this morning and the running this afternoon I spent the time making sure everything had been packed ... especially kit and food. And then I did some more baking. Fay and Keir's favourite desserts for the weekend. Elderflower cheesecake and rose flavoured ice cream. Shame it'll be all gone by the time I return.
This will be my last post before the race but you will be able to follow the action at www.run24.eu and at www.iau-ultramarthon.org
Thanks to everyone for wishing me well. I'll write again next week.
This morning was my last session of strength work - core mainly but also a bit of work on the legs. Right now I feel better prepared than for any of my previous 24 hr races. I'm also very aware that in long ultra races fitness is not necessarily a good indicator of performance ... there are so many other factors to consider such as nutrition, hydration, weather, crew, blisters, electrolytes, etc. I believe I've got them all covered but if I've missed anything I'm sure some other member of team GB will be able to help out.
Between the strength work early this morning and the running this afternoon I spent the time making sure everything had been packed ... especially kit and food. And then I did some more baking. Fay and Keir's favourite desserts for the weekend. Elderflower cheesecake and rose flavoured ice cream. Shame it'll be all gone by the time I return.
This will be my last post before the race but you will be able to follow the action at www.run24.eu and at www.iau-ultramarthon.org
Thanks to everyone for wishing me well. I'll write again next week.
Sunday, 5 August 2012
Olympics and World Championships
Fantastic few hours for UK last night at the London Olympics. Gold for Jess Ennis in the heptathlon. Gold for Greg Rutherford in the long jump. Gold for Mo Farah in the 10000m. Great Stuff ... especially when added to more gold medals in cycling and rowing.
Shame about the men's football though.
As I type this the women's marathon has just started in a rain soaked London. I don't think we'll get a medal in this event though. Especially now that Paula Radcliffe has withdrawn because of injury.
Planning for the World 24 hour Championships goes ahead unabated. Flights have been booked for the runners, team managers, physio and helpers. Accommodation will be booked shortly. Then there's kit to sort out. Fay reckons we'll be wearing the same kit as the Olympic runners (minus the 5 rings logo) but I'm not so sure ... we'll have to wait and see. I guess UK Athletics are a bit busy at the moment.
It would be good to get the stuff as soon as possible though so that it can worn, washed and worn again in training to make sure it fits perfectly and won't chaff or rub anywhere. Twenty four hours is a long time to wear running gear ... it NEEDS to fit properly.
Training today is 6 x 1 mile (1.6km) and tomorrow is just cycling and strength work. Long runs on Tuesday and Wednesday but on the former I need to leave home early so that I'm back in time for the men's triathlon in which the Brownlee brothers are competing for Wharfedale. Start time 11.00am
Must go now ... the flapjack needs to come out of the oven and then I'll start on the bread. The smell of fresh bread ...
Shame about the men's football though.
As I type this the women's marathon has just started in a rain soaked London. I don't think we'll get a medal in this event though. Especially now that Paula Radcliffe has withdrawn because of injury.
Planning for the World 24 hour Championships goes ahead unabated. Flights have been booked for the runners, team managers, physio and helpers. Accommodation will be booked shortly. Then there's kit to sort out. Fay reckons we'll be wearing the same kit as the Olympic runners (minus the 5 rings logo) but I'm not so sure ... we'll have to wait and see. I guess UK Athletics are a bit busy at the moment.
It would be good to get the stuff as soon as possible though so that it can worn, washed and worn again in training to make sure it fits perfectly and won't chaff or rub anywhere. Twenty four hours is a long time to wear running gear ... it NEEDS to fit properly.
Training today is 6 x 1 mile (1.6km) and tomorrow is just cycling and strength work. Long runs on Tuesday and Wednesday but on the former I need to leave home early so that I'm back in time for the men's triathlon in which the Brownlee brothers are competing for Wharfedale. Start time 11.00am
Must go now ... the flapjack needs to come out of the oven and then I'll start on the bread. The smell of fresh bread ...
Monday, 28 May 2012
just a quick update
Good to find my normal self again hiding in the sunshine. With less than four weeks to go before my next ultra all my usual enthusiasm for training seems to have returned. Looking forward now to a good race.
Yesterday's training run was hill reps in the afternoon. Ten times up a short steep hill (250m) to the north of Otley. All in all I was out of the house less than 45 minutes and lost over 2 kg in weight (3.5 lb).
Fay says: "If you find it can you give it back please ?"
The temperature in the shade was apparently 25.8 C (78.4 F). There wasn't much shade where I was running though ...
I've just recently come across a blog written by A Big Horse and the entry for 24 May describes what a 24 hour race is all about. I'd say that is one of the best descriptions I've ever read, especially the following ...
"The time after 100 miles is all about making peace with pain and finding your most efficient stride at effort level you can continue to the end of the race. Will there be pain - Yes. What kind of pain - Unknown. Nausea, knee, hip, ankle, shoulders, feet, blisters, chaffing, fatigue, dizziness, hamstrings, quads, calves, headache ... Who know which combination you will face - Only that there will be pain. This is where you find out how serious you are about the race. There will be multiple, reasonable reasons to stop or at least back down and only 1 reason to continue at max effort ... because you will it.
All plans of 24 hour racers are limited by 4 things: 1) Actual fitness level for race, 2) What your body decides to give you that day (Much more variable than marathon or even 50 mile races), 3) Weather and 4) You ability to problem solve the issue that yo will face - There will be things that go wrong, how well do you problem solve to minimize those issues."
Great stuff by a member of the US team. They will be very difficult to beat in Poland come September.
Off to do lift some weights now.
Yesterday's training run was hill reps in the afternoon. Ten times up a short steep hill (250m) to the north of Otley. All in all I was out of the house less than 45 minutes and lost over 2 kg in weight (3.5 lb).
Fay says: "If you find it can you give it back please ?"
The temperature in the shade was apparently 25.8 C (78.4 F). There wasn't much shade where I was running though ...
I've just recently come across a blog written by A Big Horse and the entry for 24 May describes what a 24 hour race is all about. I'd say that is one of the best descriptions I've ever read, especially the following ...
"The time after 100 miles is all about making peace with pain and finding your most efficient stride at effort level you can continue to the end of the race. Will there be pain - Yes. What kind of pain - Unknown. Nausea, knee, hip, ankle, shoulders, feet, blisters, chaffing, fatigue, dizziness, hamstrings, quads, calves, headache ... Who know which combination you will face - Only that there will be pain. This is where you find out how serious you are about the race. There will be multiple, reasonable reasons to stop or at least back down and only 1 reason to continue at max effort ... because you will it.
All plans of 24 hour racers are limited by 4 things: 1) Actual fitness level for race, 2) What your body decides to give you that day (Much more variable than marathon or even 50 mile races), 3) Weather and 4) You ability to problem solve the issue that yo will face - There will be things that go wrong, how well do you problem solve to minimize those issues."
Great stuff by a member of the US team. They will be very difficult to beat in Poland come September.
Off to do lift some weights now.
Sunday, 13 May 2012
from 5k to 24 hours
Apologies for not posting for a while but I've been a bit busy recently ... and Fay was ill at the start of last week which didn't help (but she seems OK now though).
Yesterday I ran in my first open race of the year. It was only a local 5k but it was good for speedwork and after running to and from the venue provided another 20 miles or so (32 km) to my weekly total of over 90 (145 km). I was very pleased to complete the three lap 5k in 9th position with a time of 19:58, especially as the 373 other runners caused a bit of blockage on the second and third laps.
Also pleased with that run because on 28 May last year I did the same race (and also ran to the start) with a time of 20:59 ... so that's an improvement of over a minute in twelve months which bodes well for the ULTRArace 100 which is less than 6 weeks away now.
I've also been experimenting with flapjack. I've been using homemade flapjack to fuel my long runs for a few months now. Recently I had a thought that perhaps I could fortify it with added electrolytes and/or extra vitamins and minerals, especially for long ultra races where electrolytes are very important.
Well, I made a batch yesterday afternoon and to the 1000g flapjack mixture I added 16g salt and also some extra B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, zinc, selenium, calcium and magnesium. I added the quantities needed for my next ultra race after taking into account all the other stuff I plan to eat and drink. I've had a small piece of the finished product to see if it is palatable ... and it's not too bad (very slightly salty) but I'll have more of an idea about whether it may be suitable after Tuesday's long run when it gets it's first road test. More details later.
I'll have to get myself a digital camera.
On Friday Fay managed to find some coffee from Thailand. I've never actually come across any Thailand coffee for sale so that was a big surprise - it's quite good too if a little mild for my taste.
And it's Keir's 18th birthday at the end of this month so that's something he's looking forward too. Today we booked his accommodation in Belfast for when he starts university there in September. Yes, I know he hasn't even taken his A levels yet but apparently they want accommodation to be booked first - and a £300 bond paid too !!!
This weekend has also seen the annual Basel 24 hr race in Switzerland in which several UK athletes were attempting to get World Championship qualifying distances before the end of May. I'm not sure of any distances or results other than John Pares finished first. Congratulations to him ... it's practically a home town race for John though :)
Yesterday I ran in my first open race of the year. It was only a local 5k but it was good for speedwork and after running to and from the venue provided another 20 miles or so (32 km) to my weekly total of over 90 (145 km). I was very pleased to complete the three lap 5k in 9th position with a time of 19:58, especially as the 373 other runners caused a bit of blockage on the second and third laps.
Also pleased with that run because on 28 May last year I did the same race (and also ran to the start) with a time of 20:59 ... so that's an improvement of over a minute in twelve months which bodes well for the ULTRArace 100 which is less than 6 weeks away now.
I've also been experimenting with flapjack. I've been using homemade flapjack to fuel my long runs for a few months now. Recently I had a thought that perhaps I could fortify it with added electrolytes and/or extra vitamins and minerals, especially for long ultra races where electrolytes are very important.
Well, I made a batch yesterday afternoon and to the 1000g flapjack mixture I added 16g salt and also some extra B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, zinc, selenium, calcium and magnesium. I added the quantities needed for my next ultra race after taking into account all the other stuff I plan to eat and drink. I've had a small piece of the finished product to see if it is palatable ... and it's not too bad (very slightly salty) but I'll have more of an idea about whether it may be suitable after Tuesday's long run when it gets it's first road test. More details later.
I'll have to get myself a digital camera.
On Friday Fay managed to find some coffee from Thailand. I've never actually come across any Thailand coffee for sale so that was a big surprise - it's quite good too if a little mild for my taste.
And it's Keir's 18th birthday at the end of this month so that's something he's looking forward too. Today we booked his accommodation in Belfast for when he starts university there in September. Yes, I know he hasn't even taken his A levels yet but apparently they want accommodation to be booked first - and a £300 bond paid too !!!
This weekend has also seen the annual Basel 24 hr race in Switzerland in which several UK athletes were attempting to get World Championship qualifying distances before the end of May. I'm not sure of any distances or results other than John Pares finished first. Congratulations to him ... it's practically a home town race for John though :)
Sunday, 6 May 2012
bits and pieces
Well, today is the first day of my next 4 week training block. As usual my last block ended with an 'easy week' in which I reduced everything by one third. My three runs last week were a 6 mile (9.6 km) tempo run, a long run of almost 44 miles (71 km) and some hill reps (10 x Farnley Lane in Otley).
Some of the strength work I had planned wasn't completed but that was due mainly to wedding anniversary celebrations (24 years) and not injury. Having said that, my left knee does seem to be aching a bit today.
I've also been home alone all weekend as Fay and Keir have been camping in Harrogate with hundreds of scouts from all over Yorkshire. I'm sure they're having lots of fun but it's been very cold at night ... too cold for me to be under canvas.
Like lots of others I've been following the trials and tribulations of the eleven runners who left John O'Groats 16 days ago heading for Land's End. It's been a fascinating journey and one which I have found immensely inspiring. I know I'll be thinking about what they achieved as I complete another long run in the rain tomorrow :(
Many congratulations to Rainer Koch on winning the event. It has been a privilege to follow his progress day after day through the rain.
Much like my training last month really.
Some of the strength work I had planned wasn't completed but that was due mainly to wedding anniversary celebrations (24 years) and not injury. Having said that, my left knee does seem to be aching a bit today.
I've also been home alone all weekend as Fay and Keir have been camping in Harrogate with hundreds of scouts from all over Yorkshire. I'm sure they're having lots of fun but it's been very cold at night ... too cold for me to be under canvas.
Like lots of others I've been following the trials and tribulations of the eleven runners who left John O'Groats 16 days ago heading for Land's End. It's been a fascinating journey and one which I have found immensely inspiring. I know I'll be thinking about what they achieved as I complete another long run in the rain tomorrow :(
Many congratulations to Rainer Koch on winning the event. It has been a privilege to follow his progress day after day through the rain.
Much like my training last month really.
Thursday, 19 April 2012
various bits and pieces
Alright that's enough rain ... it's getting a bit boring now. Every time I venture outside I get sodden and if I'm running for a couple of hours or more ...
With all this wet weather we're getting this month I expect the ULTRArace 100 to be dry this year. As it takes place in June it should be dry anyway but you never can tell in this country. Last year it rained solidly for ten hours or more.
It's good to come home to a decent cup of coffee though. At the moment that's Starbuck's French Roast, and recently there's been either cheese on toast or porridge to go with that. Recovery for body and mind.
Fay had some good news yesterday, she been nominated for 'customer services employee of the year' by Bradford City Council. The awards ceremony takes place on 21 May but she thinks that, if previous years are anything to go by, the prizes will be shared and there won't be an overall winner.
It's still possible that, because of the stupid UK government, she may not have a job after September 2013.
Keir's just learned that he's been selected to go on a school visit to Auschwitz in Poland early next month. Ties in nicely with his massive interest in history - fourteen days is a bit short notice though.
All the best to those racing soon ... the JOGLE race starts tomorrow I believe and on the April 22 William Sichel is in New York for the 6 day race. And then there's a marathon in London on Sunday which seems to attract ever increasing numbers of people who aren't well enough trained to run 20 miles let alone 26.2.
And finally ... I hope the hunters in The Magic Forest manage to recapture the lion soon.
With all this wet weather we're getting this month I expect the ULTRArace 100 to be dry this year. As it takes place in June it should be dry anyway but you never can tell in this country. Last year it rained solidly for ten hours or more.
It's good to come home to a decent cup of coffee though. At the moment that's Starbuck's French Roast, and recently there's been either cheese on toast or porridge to go with that. Recovery for body and mind.
Fay had some good news yesterday, she been nominated for 'customer services employee of the year' by Bradford City Council. The awards ceremony takes place on 21 May but she thinks that, if previous years are anything to go by, the prizes will be shared and there won't be an overall winner.
It's still possible that, because of the stupid UK government, she may not have a job after September 2013.
Keir's just learned that he's been selected to go on a school visit to Auschwitz in Poland early next month. Ties in nicely with his massive interest in history - fourteen days is a bit short notice though.
All the best to those racing soon ... the JOGLE race starts tomorrow I believe and on the April 22 William Sichel is in New York for the 6 day race. And then there's a marathon in London on Sunday which seems to attract ever increasing numbers of people who aren't well enough trained to run 20 miles let alone 26.2.
And finally ... I hope the hunters in The Magic Forest manage to recapture the lion soon.
Thursday, 1 March 2012
training, races, retiring ... and questions about drinks
Recent training has been good in the warm winter sunshine - the temperature here has regularly been over 11 C (52 F) whereas the average is only about 7 or 8 C (45.5 F). It's all starting to come together and I've added hill reps to the training schedule. In fact I find myself choosing the hilly route almost every time I go running at the moment - it's good for strength though so I'm not complaining. It will also come in handy if I choose to do a hilly ultra in June.
Early next week I'll be doing my first 20 miler (32 km) since late August last year and I'm really looking forward to it. I've no idea yet where I'll be running but those three hours will be fun if the weather stays as it is.
Sad to read about William, Anth and Torill all having bad races recently for various reasons in Espoo and Evreux. I'm sure they'll all bounce back, learn from the experience and have some good performances later this year.
Received news yesterday that it's extremely likely that I'll be taking part in a 24 hour race in eastern Europe in early September. Nothing definite yet (the wheels of officialdom are turning slowly this year) so I can't say any more than that.
On a similar note many of you will be aware that the IAU is pushing very hard to have a 24 hour race included in the 2018 Commonwealth Games which will be held in Australia. If that does happen it will be a fantastic opportunity and experience for all the athletes. Not just for ultra runners but for all the other sports and media people who will get an chance to see first hand what we do and the extreme levels of fitness, endurance and camaraderie involved. Fay said recently that I'll be retired by then ... don't tell her but even though I'll be 54 when the Games take place I'll be trying my best during 2017 to make the team.
Retire ... don't be silly.
A couple of thoughts recently came to me when reading the label and website of a well known brand of isotonic sports drink:
100ml contains 6.4g carbohydrate (of which 3.5g are sugars). What is the remaining 2.9g ? and
if I aim to take on board 60g glucose per hour during a 24 hr race will 100ml provide 6.4g or 3.5g of that ? and
500ml bottles of liquid and 390g tubs of powder have slightly different ingredients and nutritional data, why ?
Hope someone has an answer or two (or three maybe) - for ultra runners nutrition is important ... everyone else thinks we're bonkers !!!
Thanks to everyone recently for the birthday greetings via Facebook or otherwise ... much appreciated.
Early next week I'll be doing my first 20 miler (32 km) since late August last year and I'm really looking forward to it. I've no idea yet where I'll be running but those three hours will be fun if the weather stays as it is.
Sad to read about William, Anth and Torill all having bad races recently for various reasons in Espoo and Evreux. I'm sure they'll all bounce back, learn from the experience and have some good performances later this year.
Received news yesterday that it's extremely likely that I'll be taking part in a 24 hour race in eastern Europe in early September. Nothing definite yet (the wheels of officialdom are turning slowly this year) so I can't say any more than that.
On a similar note many of you will be aware that the IAU is pushing very hard to have a 24 hour race included in the 2018 Commonwealth Games which will be held in Australia. If that does happen it will be a fantastic opportunity and experience for all the athletes. Not just for ultra runners but for all the other sports and media people who will get an chance to see first hand what we do and the extreme levels of fitness, endurance and camaraderie involved. Fay said recently that I'll be retired by then ... don't tell her but even though I'll be 54 when the Games take place I'll be trying my best during 2017 to make the team.
Retire ... don't be silly.
A couple of thoughts recently came to me when reading the label and website of a well known brand of isotonic sports drink:
100ml contains 6.4g carbohydrate (of which 3.5g are sugars). What is the remaining 2.9g ? and
if I aim to take on board 60g glucose per hour during a 24 hr race will 100ml provide 6.4g or 3.5g of that ? and
500ml bottles of liquid and 390g tubs of powder have slightly different ingredients and nutritional data, why ?
Hope someone has an answer or two (or three maybe) - for ultra runners nutrition is important ... everyone else thinks we're bonkers !!!
Thanks to everyone recently for the birthday greetings via Facebook or otherwise ... much appreciated.
Monday, 9 January 2012
things still improving
Just a brief update on how the injury's progressing before my next visit to the physio on Wednesday afternoon.
Well, today was a 'no running' day but the previous four runs were all done in the morning and I would give them marks of 96%, 96%, 98% and 99%. So things are definitely still improving and the early morning aching has also abated.
Very good indeed. Stretching three times a day, icing three times a day and doing the eccentric contraction exercises twice a day seems to be helping enormously.
These runs have been increasing in length but still alternating running with walking. I'm very confident that the physio will give me all clear to begin running non-stop again. Obviously not very far at first and, I guess, if all goes well, I'll be able to start training properly again at the end of the month.
And then I can start planning my races for this year although that could be a bit difficult with Fay's job being in danger at the moment - local authority cuts.
Still ... things are beginning to look good at the moment. And there's a reporter visiting tomorrow from the Yorkshire Evening Post ...
Well, today was a 'no running' day but the previous four runs were all done in the morning and I would give them marks of 96%, 96%, 98% and 99%. So things are definitely still improving and the early morning aching has also abated.
Very good indeed. Stretching three times a day, icing three times a day and doing the eccentric contraction exercises twice a day seems to be helping enormously.
These runs have been increasing in length but still alternating running with walking. I'm very confident that the physio will give me all clear to begin running non-stop again. Obviously not very far at first and, I guess, if all goes well, I'll be able to start training properly again at the end of the month.
And then I can start planning my races for this year although that could be a bit difficult with Fay's job being in danger at the moment - local authority cuts.
Still ... things are beginning to look good at the moment. And there's a reporter visiting tomorrow from the Yorkshire Evening Post ...
Sunday, 4 December 2011
energy balance
This morning Fay turned to me and asked when I'm going to start running again. I told her it would hopefully be round about Christmas but wondered about her interest.
"Because you've got too much energy" she said.
hmmm ... I didn't need to ask her to explain.
Obviously 16 hours of training per week (without the running) isn't enough ...
"Because you've got too much energy" she said.
hmmm ... I didn't need to ask her to explain.
Obviously 16 hours of training per week (without the running) isn't enough ...
Saturday, 3 September 2011
Crash Training (summary)
A bit of background to begin with. I first came across the idea of crash training when reading various articles written by the successful coach Frank Horwill - the one about crash training can be found at http://www.serpentine.org.uk/pages/advice_frank19.html
Of course I realised that, like all training, it shouldn't be just copied blindly without adapting it to my specific needs/strengths/weaknesses/goals/etc. I have used it successfully though at least three times in the past and have no reason to doubt it's continued usefulness as a part of my overall training schedule.
This is how I use it: first of all I plan the training, write the schedule, etc without thinking once about crash training - at that early stage it's totally irrelevant.
Then, when I'm happy with the schedule and everything has been included (speedwork, long runs, hillwork, tempo running, cycling, strength and flexibility work) I look at the week immediately before my taper. That's the one I use for crash training.
Whatever I have planned for that week - I do twice. Everything, doubled. But for ONE WEEK ONLY and I'm confident my body can cope because the following week is the beginning of my tapering phase ... and to make sure I fully recover from the extra hard week I make this extra easy by halving everything. That means, for example, only 30 miles (48 km) instead of the planned 60 (97 km).
One final point - I am very careful about injuries as it is only a few weeks to the competition. I am fully prepared to cut short the crash training period if necessary.
My crash training week this year comprised:
- two races
- three long runs (25 miles or more)
- three speedwork sessions
- one tempo run
- 14 sessions of stretching
- four cycling sessions
- lots of strength work with weights
This was broken down as:
Those times obviously do not include things such as showering, changing, moving equipment, etc
Of course I realised that, like all training, it shouldn't be just copied blindly without adapting it to my specific needs/strengths/weaknesses/goals/etc. I have used it successfully though at least three times in the past and have no reason to doubt it's continued usefulness as a part of my overall training schedule.
This is how I use it: first of all I plan the training, write the schedule, etc without thinking once about crash training - at that early stage it's totally irrelevant.
Then, when I'm happy with the schedule and everything has been included (speedwork, long runs, hillwork, tempo running, cycling, strength and flexibility work) I look at the week immediately before my taper. That's the one I use for crash training.
Whatever I have planned for that week - I do twice. Everything, doubled. But for ONE WEEK ONLY and I'm confident my body can cope because the following week is the beginning of my tapering phase ... and to make sure I fully recover from the extra hard week I make this extra easy by halving everything. That means, for example, only 30 miles (48 km) instead of the planned 60 (97 km).
One final point - I am very careful about injuries as it is only a few weeks to the competition. I am fully prepared to cut short the crash training period if necessary.
My crash training week this year comprised:
- two races
- three long runs (25 miles or more)
- three speedwork sessions
- one tempo run
- 14 sessions of stretching
- four cycling sessions
- lots of strength work with weights
This was broken down as:
day 1 ... over 5h 28 minutes
day 2 ... over 5h 29 minutes
day 3 ... over 4h 48 minutes
day 4 ... over 5h 4 minutes
day 5 ... over 5h 12 minutes
day 6 ... over 5h 10 minutes
day 7 ... over 5h 10 minutes
Those times obviously do not include things such as showering, changing, moving equipment, etc
Written another way the week's training was:
running ... over 23h 33 minutes
cycling ... over 3h 27 minutes
stretching ... over 5h 1 minute
strength work ... over 4h 23 minutes
total training ... over 36h 25 minutes
I do realise that I have to change my normal daily routine for a week to accommodate all this training. I'm lucky in that I'm a freelance writer who can quite easily take time out for this.
Fay has also mentioned this week that there is far more laundry than usual. I pointed out that as I do 90% of the household chores anyway it won't affect her at all ...
Monday, 1 August 2011
good long run
First thing this morning I left home for a 33 mile run. The idea was not to push the pace too much but to generally run how I felt.
The route from Otley took in Burley in Wharfedale, Menston, Guiseley, Shipley, Saltaire, Leeds Liverpool Canal, Kirkstall, Headingley and Bramhope.
So basically the first and last thirds were hilly but the middle section was flat.
I felt very good throughout, finishing at lunchtime in 4h 40 with plenty in reserve. The weather today was excellent but a little warm. Overall I lost over 3.3 kg in weight (7.4 lbs) ... over 5.7% of my bodywight. An excellent run showing that I'm in good shape at the moment with eight weeks to go.
A couple of interesting sights en route: when running between Headingley and Bramhope two or three large lorries passed me carrying a 'wall of death'. Never having seen one of those motorcycle acts I did wonder where it was going but I haven't been able to find out.
Also, a part of the canal towpath near Kirkstall was closed and there was a heavy police presence which included a diversion using a nearby farmer's field. Fay later told me that she'd heard that a cyclist had been found unconscious in the water.
A few hours after arriving home I got the bike out for an hour or so and later tonight I have some stretching planned to keep me busy.
A good day's training.
ps ... thanks to all those who got in touch following my previous post.
The route from Otley took in Burley in Wharfedale, Menston, Guiseley, Shipley, Saltaire, Leeds Liverpool Canal, Kirkstall, Headingley and Bramhope.
So basically the first and last thirds were hilly but the middle section was flat.
I felt very good throughout, finishing at lunchtime in 4h 40 with plenty in reserve. The weather today was excellent but a little warm. Overall I lost over 3.3 kg in weight (7.4 lbs) ... over 5.7% of my bodywight. An excellent run showing that I'm in good shape at the moment with eight weeks to go.
A couple of interesting sights en route: when running between Headingley and Bramhope two or three large lorries passed me carrying a 'wall of death'. Never having seen one of those motorcycle acts I did wonder where it was going but I haven't been able to find out.
Also, a part of the canal towpath near Kirkstall was closed and there was a heavy police presence which included a diversion using a nearby farmer's field. Fay later told me that she'd heard that a cyclist had been found unconscious in the water.
A few hours after arriving home I got the bike out for an hour or so and later tonight I have some stretching planned to keep me busy.
A good day's training.
ps ... thanks to all those who got in touch following my previous post.
Monday, 25 July 2011
a few days rest
Just arrived home from a few days in Newcastle upon Tyne. A while ago Iron Maiden (Fay's favourite rock band) announced a tour but as every UK date inexplicable clashed with one thing or another we couldn't get tickets.
About a week ago the sad death of a friend meant that we had nothing to do on 24 July and, by a strange twist of fate, three of Keir's friends wanted to sell their tickets for the Iron Maiden gig on that night [Metro Arena, Newcastle upon Tyne]. I snapped them up and quickly organised travel and a hotel room before telling Fay on Friday evening.
Because of that and also horse racing in Newcastle on the same day the only hotel rooms I could find were out near the Metro Centre in Gateshead.
Iron Maiden aren't really my thing, they're OK but ... We had a good time though and Fay really enjoyed the show.
Back training tomorrow fully refreshed and rejuvenated with less than nine weeks to go before my next ultra race.
About a week ago the sad death of a friend meant that we had nothing to do on 24 July and, by a strange twist of fate, three of Keir's friends wanted to sell their tickets for the Iron Maiden gig on that night [Metro Arena, Newcastle upon Tyne]. I snapped them up and quickly organised travel and a hotel room before telling Fay on Friday evening.
Because of that and also horse racing in Newcastle on the same day the only hotel rooms I could find were out near the Metro Centre in Gateshead.
Iron Maiden aren't really my thing, they're OK but ... We had a good time though and Fay really enjoyed the show.
Back training tomorrow fully refreshed and rejuvenated with less than nine weeks to go before my next ultra race.
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