My Uterus and I

I finally did it - I went out for a run. Not just a pretend jog across a bridge or fast paced walk dressed as a runner. I actually did a run!

I titled the blog post My Uterus and I, because we are separate entities now. With the easy birth of Billy came some internal trauma that I was not aware of. This has obviously affected my return to fitness and will result in me having a hysterectomy in the next two months. I'm okay with that so I thought I would blog it for anyone's future reference to return to running after such an operation.
Anyhow when I have attempted running in the past few weeks I have felt like I was a handbag with coins inside rattling around. I am glad the coins will be soon removed and I can just be an old bag again :)

This morning after the doctors approval I decided to turn up for the Brisbane Road Runners 5km. I planned on attempting to run 6min km. A big feat for someone who hasn't run for 6 months. Whilst I have returned to pre-pregnancy weight almost I am still "soft" and the habit of running has been forgotten by my lungs. It was an interesting experience.

Some things don't change and as soon as the gun went off....so did I. After 200m I slowed it down a bit. The body decided to do that for me anyhow. The first km couldn't come fast enough.....and what the hell was playing on my ipod? I think the kids must have been using it in my absence from running. I almost fell over from the lyrics I heard - and hoped no one else could hear - coming through the earpeices. Will have to find the culprit and put them on a music appreciation course.

Just before the 2km mark there was a water station and I stopped to walk and grab some water. I felt okay but I knew this was going to be real hard. I managed to get walking again - mainly because it was at the start/finish line and people were watching me ha ha. Soon enough the 3km mark came up and I was breathing very hard. A girl running beside me checked her watch and said "15:50" I was running faster than I had intended but was comfortable. Still, I decided to walk for a minute and get my breath back. People went past me and I vowed to try to catch up to them. When I started running on the home stretch I easily caught up to those who had gone past and overtook them. That made me feel good and I knew nothing was going to let me stop now. I started to wheel people in - I had a goal on a girl in pink 500m ahead of me. Secretly (can you keep secrets from yourself???) I knew I couldn't catch her but I thought it would be good spirits to attempt it. Before I knew it I had gone past the corner which signals to me the last 500m. I was out of breath and was hurting. I wanted to sit down and stop this foolishness....but I couldn't. Any second now Tesso would be coming to save me and I had to be at least standing when she did.
Seconds later Tesso and a group of runners came up over the hill on their cooldown to come and bring me home. I got the spirit to run a bit faster and finish the run off. At the top of the hill I could see the finish line and Tess and Liz were cheering me on. It felt awesome and I knew I was going to finish. I just hoped I didn't kill myself in the meantime. Running fast through the finish line just about did kill me! I had a chuck on the grass and alarmed myself at the red vomit...can you run so fast you bleed? Then I remembered the plums I had for breaky ha ha ha.
A glass of water later (thanks Tesso!!!) and I was raring to go again. Well not quite :)

Now I am sore, tired and exhausted - but you know what. Today I got the high I have been looking for the past 6 months. If nothing else that was what I wanted. I'm thrilled to be able to run 5km and just hope that soon it will be less of a task and without the pitstops.

A post baby PB of 26:38 for my uterus and I today for the 5km. Happy with that.

Back at PCRG

Might have only been a 4km walk....but it was a start. My first day back with Pat's group.


It was the first Tuesday of the month so it was Time Trial day. Hence I just walked to the start and then watched and then walked back again. Aside from a pitstop to feed Billy....it all went well. Can't wait to be back in the swing of things and for this to get easier! I was so jealous watching Tesso and others race in to the finish line.


My simple plan (I am a VIRGO so shortly there will be a more complex plan outlined...I just love plans!) is as follows:

Week Beginning:

3rd December - 30km walking
10th December - 30km walking
17th December - 25km walking 10km running
24th December - 25km walking 15km running
31st December - 30km walking 15km running
7th January - 20km walking 20km running
14th January - 30km running
21st January - 40km running
28th January - 20km running
4th February - 45km running - including first speed session
11th February - 50 -60km running
18th February - 50 - 60km running
25th February - 50 - 60km running

The idea is from January any walking that I do is just for fun/fitness and not something I will necessarily keep track of - unless it is intense or overly long.

February I have nominated as the date to start speed work. I had planned earlier but that is just silly and wishful thinking. Best to have a plan that will work without injury. A couple of weeks I have planned to drop back to give the body a rest and I will ensure the following up until March:
2 Rest days a week
1 Rest week a month
No timing aside from general interest in fitness improvement.
As I will be running with Billy in attendance for most of my runs (yet to work that out with hubby) I won't let any weather interruptions upset me. Can someone remind me of that if it rains for a week and I don't get outdoors and go beserk on you all again!!!!

Oh yes and new years resolution is - STICK TO THE PLAN

Coming Back Run # 1

Not quite 6 weeks postnatal but I thought I would go out in my running gear and see what it all felt like.

BIG MISTAKE

After a 10min warm up I decided to try to jog a bit with the pram up the hill...a few things to remember next time:

1: Wear a better sports bra
2: Wear a tight bra OVER the sports bra...just in case
3: Don't try to run until the bra thing is worked out

I expected to feel all loose and flabby but feeling bouncy is a new one for me as I have not had the pleasure of having to cope with running with boobs before.

Apart from that it hurt all over as well and my hips and tummy felt like they were pulling - a weird sensation and not one I would like to repeat. I just am not ready for a run quite yet. I turned the run into a walk and covered 45 mins at a very fast pace. This worked well and my legs felt great and without the bouncing I could have been out there for ages.

I decided I would track my progress for my first 10 attempts at running and watch how I improve.

I'll wait a week before I attempt another run but in the meantime I will look at the bra situation and also continue to do a 45min walk each morning. Fitness first they say :)

Looking forward to meeting up with the Running Buddies this Saturday for a run (walk for me and Billy) and breaky.

oooh progress is going to be oh so slow........ :(((((((

I need help!

Anyone got any great links or tips for me?

I want to start easing back into it next week (4 weeks post baby) and am only allowed to start with walking 1-2hrs a day. That's okay by me, but I was wondering if following two weeks of that, should I just start on a couch to 5km program? Or do I just run easy for as long as I can a few times a week?
I won't be adding in any speedwork until January but am desperate to get out and run and NOT injure myself.

Any advice would be appreciated to assist me to come back, I feel like I have been away forever but when I walk I am really holding myself back from breaking into a run...so I feel ready.

WELCOME TO BILLY BELLENGER

The big event finally happened on Tuesday. Thanks for all your messages on my blog, email and through Tesso. They were all received, it not acknowledged, and got me through the last few days and then the labour itself.

Born at 2:13pm 23rd October weighing in at 8"9oz or just under 4kg. Billy came quickly into the world but not without some pain to his mother. Trust me...being fit does not help you in labour....it actually causes difficulties because all your stomach and pelvic floor muslces work against the contractions and not with them - or so the Obstetrician decided to inform me halfway through.

Billy is beautiful - yes I am very biased and his father and I are proud as punch of our new addition.

Photo below of Mum, Dad and Billy's first night out...Carbo loading at Arrividerci's.

Now...thats it folks....back to a running blog and for me to start my training for Canberra.

BRING IT ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

40 Weeks and Counting.....

If you are wondering why I am looking so harrassed it might be because I sort of thought I would have had this baby by now!!!!

My beautiful little baby has decided to not come out and greet the family so anxious to have a cuddle so doc has scheduled me in for an índucement' on Wednesday 24th October at 6am.

So whilst you are all out there doing a speed session or a mid week run....just think of me huffing and puffing just as much but not really moving far.

Hopefully the next post will have some exciting news to announce to the world :) Aside from Tesso being back in town................ :))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Latest Update

Now 34weeks but femur testing through the ultrasound shows 35weeks.....mmmm it's all abit hit and miss I think. At least I am reassured bub will be okay if it does come early.

Anyhow all is good. Diabetes test came back negative yesterday and the baby has not grown in last two weeks so that means I won't have a giant....just a big big baby.

In regards to running - the 14k Club Champs are on at BRRC this weekend and as everyone will be running - I put my hand up to be Race Director. I totally forgot GlassHouse run was also on so now I am going to have a hectic weekend racing from Brissy to the North and back.

CR BlueDog and wife Bernie as well as Eagle are all up to run. Bluedog is not doing the 100Miler (thankfully) due to his injury but will instead be running 30km alongside Eagle to pace him and keep company in the last of his 100Mile effort.
Bernie is doing the 30km race that starts Sunday morning. I spoke to them this morning and it is wet and extremely muddy up there so not sure how well the racing will go. Still, it should be fun to watch.

On another note I bought the worlds most expensive pram...not because I am into labels or anything (quite the opposite) but because I am a RUNNER and I had to invest in the best running pram. At the very least I should get a lot of use out of it. I am pretty keen to get fit again as soon as possible. I won't push it (ha ha ha) to get back to running fast or anything but I'd love to be able to go 4km around the block again. I can't believe even walking at the moment is just tiring me!!!!

PS. Kerryn McCann had her baby delivered on Wednesday and is due to start chemo on Monday. I' got an update from Pat but haven't heard anything further about how she is doing. God Bless her and her family.

Big wave to Tesso whom I am missing terribly.......................................

Update - 33 weeks

I'm struggling to waddle at the moment let alone walk or run. I got off the phone from Tesso yesterday and walked in the front door to be confronted with the scary reality of my waters breaking.

With 7 weeks to go not exactly what you want to happen.

I spent last night trying to find someone who would talk to me on the phone whilst I twiddle my thumbs waiting for something more to happen. Hubby was at work and in an interview for some new staff so I coudn't reach him. My backup - ihatetoast/iliketoast were not answering their phone either. mmmmm found out today Tesso was on the line to them. I think she needs shares in Telstra! :)

The hospital staff were not very keen to talk to me despite the big bucks I am paying them. They had 7 women in labour last night alone and didn't want me in there unless I started having contractions or other symptoms.

As it turned out nothing progressed and a checkup today has given me the warning to TAKE IT EASY. ha ha ha ha do they know what deadlines I have at work????
I am having regular checkups now to ensure there is no infection but at least it scared me enough to get my hospital bag packed.

The upside of all this is I missed another chance to catch up with everyone at Pat's. Hopefully I will get through the weekend in one piece (literally) and make it to the 3km time trial on Tuesday. Just to watch and cheer of course.

Kerryn McCann

Tesso rang me yesterday with the devastating news that Kerryn has breast cancer.

It really amazes me the number of people surrounding me that struggle with cancer of one sort or another. It is never good news and I pray hard that Kerryn has successful treatment that can remove the cancer and quickly.

She is 32 weeks pregnant - same as me and due to give birth on 22nd October. However reading the bits of news it would appear they are going to put her into labour early so she can then focus on the cancer treatment.
After 34weeks the baby can be born with no ill side effects as their suckling relexes, breathing etc are all formed by this stage. Any earlier and there are risks the baby may have some difficulties but I am sure she will have the best support and team on hand to assist her through this. Another 10 days and she will be 34 weeks and at a good stage to give birth.

It makes me pause and consider how her family will get through the hard times of a new infant, two other young children and a mum with invasive cancer treatment. I wish the whole family a quick recovery for Kerryn and the strength and joy to all that a new addition to the family can bring.

Best of luck Kerryn. My thoughts are with you.

Bridge to Brisbane 12km

This is what happens when Tesso leaves me all alone....

Photo is in the last 500m of Bridge to Brisbane with Jordan doing her first fun run with me. We took it VERY slowly and walked most of the way. It got warm towards the end so thankfully the race numbers were stickers - which meant I could still get a photo when I took my top off. Also saved me some dignity by covering up the stomach that looks like I ate the runner in front of me.

Farewell Tessooooo

....and the winner is......S Y D N E Y...





The prize is......TESSOOOO





For some strange reason Tess has decided to abandon me and go where the weather is colder, the running is harder and the boyfriend is closer :)





It's okay she's coming back....well she had better come back. This little baby wants to know who Aunty Tess is that I keep talking about!





Was great to get out with the group this morning for a 50min run. Of course I only managed a few km before I had to walk - but I was pumped to find I was overtaking many other walkers out there so pretty happy with that. Tess seemed to think that overtaking people sitting down doesn't count but I'll take all the overtaking I can get these days.





After the jog we had a 1km dash. I got a head start of 1min so I wouldn't get trampled - or left behind. It was great fun to have the really fast people take a while to catch me but when they did it seemed like the whole group went by.





I finished around 5:40 but the last 100m I honestly sprinted hard. It was nice to know that we were finishing with a pancake breakfast in Tess's honour. Made the sprint worthwhile.

Went and picked up my race pack for the Bridge to Brisbane this weekend. If anyone sees a fat chick out there carrying a wide load....say hello because I love seeing you even if it is just as you go past!!!

Gold Coast Half Marathon

I just have to start with saying a big thankyou to Cato!!!!

I started the race very sad because I lost my Aunty in the carpark and could not find her again. We were meant to be running together and so I had not bought my ipod or considered what I would do running by myself for two and a half hours!!! My longest run since February!!!!

I saw a few coolrunners and said hello to them. Cato and I worked out in that first km we were running similar paces - what with LL not able to get her flights up. So he kindly suggested we run together. Obviously he was running much slower than he was able to run with me.

It was fairly easy going. I was not pushing it at all and actually really enjoyed running with no pressure and no desire to look at the clock. When everyone else started coming back it got very excited and I am sure I used up a lot of energy cheering everyone on....but I wouldn't have it any other way!!!

One of the hardest things to witness was seeing Allan going past as the second last wheelie. At PCRG we all see him every morning training near the river. He trains just for this race and I was sure he was out for a good time. To see him struggling and having a bad day bought home to me that no matter what you do in training.....it really does come down to the day!

Cato was great and made sure I walked the uphills. The amount of times I have run this race and never realised there were hills!!!!! He also made sure we walked every drink station and took two cups of water at each one. I was ok until the baby woke up at halfway and really jumped around. The pressure on my bladder and on my right side was terrible.

A quick stop at the loo (well there was a line so we actually had to wait for 2mins!!!) and we were on our way to the finish and i was feeling much better. I ran the last 2km holding my belly - which has given me the most painful glute and lower back muscles - but I am glad I did it as the weight was starting to really pull.

When I got home I found I my sports bra had cut into my stomach where the belly starts sticking out and I have a deep cut going across my belly which was weeping all Sunday and I woke up with it bleeding fresh this morning. Thankfully now with a day of rest and good ointment it is drying up and after a quick checkup booked with the doc tomorrow I am sure I will be back to running - albeit no more than 10km.

Cato and I were searching for the CR Squad for the last 5km...it really kept us going to think they would be there soon and we knew we would get a good cheer from them to get us across the line.

So many highlights of the day for me - aside from my wonderful run with Cato. I witnessed so many friends have either good days or bad days but no one regretted lining up to start.
Tesso made my day by stopping her race to give me a big hug just 500m out from her finish, she is really a wonderful person. It was good to see her have a great run.

Well done to everyone - it was great to see you all. Sorry we had to leave so abruptly....my husband became incredibly ill when he finished the half (with no training).....but that is another story.

Out with Tesso!!!

I have a new best friend now. We are even having babies together.......

Had a great night out with the crew from PCRG last night and got to relive Kerryn McCann's gold medal win. It was awesome. She is such an unassuming person.

We are both due in October but I was devastated to be standing near her because she is such a petite pregnant woman and I am a heffalump. Nonetheless we both have the big smiles pregnant women have and both are enjoying the time off serious training before starting again in the new year with some big goals.

I am only kidding you know....Tesso is still my bestest friend.

Just another day at PCRG....

Yes we all just attend the training group to watch Tesso undress.
Thats Pat in the middle, me on the left and Tesso in 'Transformation'.

Pat told everyone to get their gear off for the famous naked photograph.....only Tess got sucked in....nah just kidding she wanted her PCRG singlet to show so had to take her jumper off. But it made for a good story heh :)

Doomben 10000m Race

Yippee my first race in ages. I hate to admit it but I was actually nervous. Fancy being nervous before a 10km race!!!! I felt I didn't deserve to be especially with so many lining up to do the 1/2 Marathon!

I had a busy Saturday morning so laid down for a nap and woke up 3 hrs later.....unfortunately this mean I was not able to go to sleep that night until after midnight. So on only a few hours sleep Allan and I dragged ourselves out to Doomben to watch the half marathoners get underway. Due to the traffic we got there 5mins before they took off. I was screaming out to Tesso but she had her earphones on so didn't even hear me.

The 10k started 20mins later so I thought I would duck off quickly to the loo. Figures - the line up was so long I got out of there just as the 10k was about to start. I had enough time to take my jumper off and get in line. phew!

The gun went off and away we went. It was gut wrenching. The first km I was uncomfortable and was totally depressed when everyone just kept going past me. I had started at the back of the pack so where these people were from that kept going past?????? I think they were doing it just to make me feel bad - and I did. It was terrible and anyone that has been injured or come back after a long time off will know what I am talking about - where you have runners constantly going past you.
I settled down by the 2km mark and was getting excited as we started to see all the half marathoners on their way back so I was able to cheer up and high five everyone. The race just got better from there. I was calling out to everyone I saw and they were all being very supportive back. Bub settled down and stopped jumping around so I was able to enjoy the running at last. By 3km I had a lot of pressure on the bladder but looking at the toilet they had on offer I convinced myself I didn't really need to go it was just the bub pressing on my empty bladder making me feel I needed to.

The turnaround point was exciting because I thought yah halfway there. It all happened so quickly. Marianna and Kerryn from PCRG were running around the same pace I was so it gave me the opportunity to support them and encourage them to a good run - which they did.

I had several walking breaks during the run - at each water table (except first one) and then at about 6km for a minute to ensure I was not overheating.

The last km was great and I was looking forward to the finish but not because I was exhausted - because I wanted to get there quickly so I would see all the half finishers come in!!!

My final time was 0:55:28.1 according to official results this morning.

I hung around for a while after the race catching up with everyone but as soon as Allan put me in the car to go home I fell asleep. He couldn't carry me indoors but gently woke me when we got home. I was a bit dazed so he put me to bed (guest bed because I um needed a shower). He woke me up 2 hours later for a shower and some hot lunch. I felt much better after all of that. I can't believe I was that exhausted I slept in my skins & running gear! Gross.

All in all a great day!

8km

Another good run today.

Same session as yesterday but I felt much better doing it. I think yesterday I was suffering from having had several days off in a row - so it was harder to get back into the swing of running than usual.

I did the warmup, strides and then 2x 1km efforts. Not sure what time I did but happy to not know.

It was much colder today than yesterday.....not to mention my compression tights were like SOOOOOO TIGHT I was at risk of cutting of my circulation. Might need to put them in the 'wait till next year' basket and get some 'fat pants' for this winter ha ha ha

8km - woo hoo

Ran at Pats this morning and as he had 1km efforts on the menu I thought I could run them but just very slowly and not as many as the others were doing. A Team did 5 x 1km, B Team did 4 x 1km with a bit tacked on if they got back too early. Z Team (that consists of just me) did 2 x 1km at 5.30min/km pace.
I did the first km and came in last then stretched and decided to wait for the A Team to get back there. I timed them and asked the front runner how quick he was running - 3:22 / 3:24's was the response. THAT'S FAST. Especially as most of them were meant to be in recovery this week or are doing long mileage leading up to Gold Coast.

I then turned around just before they did and headed back to the start, they got me just at the 500m mark and it was good to be running amongst fast people (if only for 2 seconds or so).

I was uncomfortable on the cool down and had a stitch on my right side that I could not get rid of so I ended up walking at least 1km before starting to jog again.

All up it was a good day and I'm glad I got out of bed for some exercise. 19 weeks now- so halfway through pregnancy next week - Thanks Goodness!!!!!!

BRRC 10km Race

Sunday I was determined to run down at Brisbane Road Runners - it has been such a long time since I have been there FOR A RUN!!

Sunday seemed to be nice and cool and I was keen to run in those conditions. With the sun coming up later the start was not until 6.30am so again that was good news!

6:30am everyone had done their warm up (except me) and were toeing the line. Tesso was champion cheerer for the day - just watching us on the sidelines. Though I noticed she had her running kit on so I suspect that was just in case the addiction took over....and she 'had' to run LOL.

It took 3km for me to ease into a pace. I went out a bit hard (for me) but was quickly stopped with one and then the other shoelace coming undone. Warming up has its benefits in ensuring you are prepared for a race in more ways than one!

I didn't run with a watch so just kept plodding along and trying to remain in control of my breathing.
It got hot very quickly and though the last thing I wanted was to have to run in just a crop top it soon became evident that I would cook with my singlet on as well.

I did the first 5km loop in 26mins but on the second loop I stopped a few times to get my breath and take on board lots of water. I enjoyed the second lap better, I think this was because I was warmed up and in the rythym of running.

Finish time on the clock was 56mins. How depressing. I don't think I'll even look next time.
I went home and was completely exhausted for 90mins but after some breaky, a power nap and hot cup of tea I was raring to get to the footy and get a good park.

A great weekend.

Update from the Fat Chick

I wish my belly would hurry up and pop out - I feel so frumpy. This week is 15weeks but I don't have a 'baby belly' yet so I just look like someone who is carbo loading and not running ha ha ha

I have been running 3-4 times a week. My plan was to keep it at 5 times a week but with being so busy at work and home I honestly have not found the time. Sleeping in is a rare thing - but instead of being on the road pounding the pavement I am at work typing away at 6am.

At Pat's I am still running twice a week. Only 6-7km each time doing the warmup and cooldown but it is fun and keeps me social with everyone.

I am now in training for the Gold Coast Half Marathon. I am going against my ob's wishes but he doesn't realise that a 4hr shopping trip with my daughters is more exhausting than a gentle run on the weekend!!! I'll talk him around when he realises a half marathon to me is not a big deal. It is not something I am doing for the first time or taking too seriously! Appointment on Thursday to discuss with him and hubby is insisting on coming along to ensure he says yes. *groan*

I plan to run with my Aunty. She did the half two years ago in 2:20hrs so we are hoping to run between 2:30 - 2:40hrs. Yes for the Half!!!!!! Our strategy is to run 6km, walk a km etc. always ensuring that I am not breathless or getting too hot. Might have to take a backpack with me in case I get hungry along the way lol!!

I can't imagine what it will be like to run an HOUR slower than my usual pace. It will be weird but no doubt by then I will be willing to go at that pace or even slower :)

Now........to do the training. Need to get my long run back up to 14km instead of the 10-12 I have been doing most weekends.

Hope you are all well and running strong - sorry for the absence and lack of blog entries/comments on your blog. I have not even read anyones blog for weeks so will have a few big days catching up. Still love you all though :)

Easter Egg Run - 10km

Good Friday was fantastic - I got up early in the morning and could not rouse any of my family so headed out to the Family Easter Egg run on my own. That was the only bad bit of the day :)

The race didn't start until 7.00am so it was great to be able to just hang around and chat to everyone and soak up the fun race atmosphere.

Liz and I decided we were not in good enough form to race (well I won't be for another few months yet...) so we make a decision to pace Greg to his sub 50min 10km. He had been trying for more than 12months to do it and always failing for one reason or another. We both knew he was capable, he just needed to know it himself. We didn't tell him about 'our decision' as we knew he would just get really nervous.

At the gun we headed out reasonably slowly keeping just behind Greg. He had shot out and was racing ahead but we hoped he would pull it up soon. He was bang on 4:50 for the first km so we agreed he would just have to run that pace the whole way now. :) Just before the second km Liz and I caught him and told him to not talk and just follow us. We ran in front like bodyguards and kept telling him to stop looking at his watch. He was actually slowing down pulling paper from the back pocket of his shorts where he had his pacing table...and then putting it back. He did this every km for the first 4km then I wouldn't let him do it again. Did I mention I was the BAD COP. Liz was the GOOD COP. We had so much fun.

The second loop we could see that he was doubting himself so we just talked him through it and before you knew it we were coming up to the turn in the road - about 300m from the finish. I yelled out to his daughter who was official timer "Jen Jen we're coming" and she just looked up in disbelief. Then we told Greg to give it everything he had. Man did he ever. I was struggling to keep up - as was Liz - he really sprinted it in! Crossed the line in 48:31 with Liz and I pulling back to let him cross on his own. Jen and Greg (her dad) were crying and laughing and just so emotional. Liz and I were too - it was a great moment and I hope I have many more of them.

We got an email from Jen later that day:

>Dear Liz and Claire,
Thanks so much for pacing Dad this morning - you made his and my day. I was so overwhelmed to see that you both stuck with him all race, encouraging him all the way. When Dad started running about 18 months ago now he was overweight, over worked and unfit. Our first run together in Noosa was under 6km's, it took him ages and he threw up at the half way mark. After we finished the run, Mum told me I would give him a heart attack if we keep it up! Now he is running half marathons and sub 50 minute 10kms and has such a passion for running, he inspires me! We are so lucky to be a part of this community. I really appreciate what you did for Dad today. Anyway sorry to sound so gushy - I just really miss running at the moment, and today is what I love best about it!
Hope to be back soon,Love Jen.

A wonderful Life...

Something glorious happened to me today. For just a brief moment.....I was a runner again.

Todays session at PCRG was a 50min run followed by a 1km race - where you can't look at your watch and have to guess your time. I love this session because you can use both runs to go as hard or as easy as you like - either way you still feel like you are out there doing something.

After warming up I think we were running around 5:15 pace. We headed out along the river and over the floating bridge. We got to the end of the floating bridge where the water tap is and I was very breathless so I stopped for water whilst everyone else went on.

There were a number of runners still coming and some were turning around where I stopped so I jumped up when I saw Liz and we headed off back to the start together. She is coming back from 'overtraining' and also was testing out some new orthotics (they were giving her blisters) so she was running over 6min kms. It was ok and I was just enjoying the morning.

At the end of the run we were in the botanical gardens. When Pat said the run was about to start I told myself I wanted to run a 5min/km. I knew it would be hard but it was only for 1km.
We took off and I was quickly overtaken by the usual crowd of those wanting to run much faster. I settled into a pace that felt fast but comfortable. Towards the end I was able to really let fly and sprint around a few people to cross the line in 4:05. I was so way off target....but I was secretly really thrilled. Yah I can still run!
I knew I was running fast but certainly would not have thought that fast. It was good to be able to break out into a sprint and really feel like you are doing something.
I'm over the moon now with my run and celebrated by eating all the pancakes in sight at breakfast.

3km Time Trial

A good crowd at Pats this morning. Not sure of numbers but it was good to see everyone lining up to run instead of being injured or pacing because of upcoming races.

Even Jodi turned up - which was great to see her run again!

After the warm up I was a bit delayed in getting out to the marshalling spot 600m into the race - so I had to sprint up the road before the first runners caught me. I ended up getting there with plenty of time - obviously Pat had given one of his loooonnggg pep talks before starting.

It was just awesome to watch a swarm of runners coming straight for me. I was in awe of them all - fast and slow it was just great to see them all coming towards me - and 99% of them had a smile on their face when they saw me...aaawwww

Some great results out there and I enjoyed hearing them all on the cool down.

I must have worked a bit harder this morning because despite having a banana at 5am, then a piece of watermelon and pineapple at Pats at 7am I was starving when I got to work. I felt very sick and I had to eat cereal before I went for a shower (sorry to all my colleagues!!). It took me 30mins to feel normal again. I think I need to carry food around with me in the car so I don't get so low again.

Coolum Classic

For Allan's birthday he wanted to do something to get outside in the fresh air so we ended up doing something he has wanted to do for ages - climb Mt Coolum.

The sign said "Experienced Climbers take 2hrs return trip" we ran to the top in 20mins (that includes where you have to climb on hands and feet so it isn't a fast slope!!!). The kids were keeping up with us and we had a fantastic time at the top looking at the views and discussing life. We had loaded Allan up with a backpack full of yummy food and water so he had to grab a stick out of the bush on the way up to ensure he looked like the bushwalking signs on the way up. (the blue man with a stick and backpack)
He really did - it was hilarious!!

I challenged Matty to a race on the way down but slowed down as soon as he was out of view. He won the race but I was very happy with my run and totally enjoyed the experience.

Next up we hit the beach for two hours. It was now 3pm and the wind was quite strong so I sat on a towel and watched them brave the water. It was soooo cold.

All up it was a good day out - topped off a great morning where we had watched the Australian 1500mx4 relay record being smashed in the morning by the most talented Pete, Mark, Andy and Dave. An exciting race resulting in a further 22 sec off the Australian Record for the U50 age group. I was glad to be there to witness it.

Monday
Only 4km on the treadmill this morning. I could not get in to the carpark so had to be in and out by 7am or my car (in the street) would have been towed. I looked like a manic running from the treadmill to the weights, furiously lifting and then racing upstairs to shower before running out the door.
Totally exhausted now. Can't wait for Pats time trial tomorrow - so I can rest!!!! :)

Update

I have been so busy at work lately I haven't blogged - when you are pregnant you really try to work harder so that people don't label you with the usual stigma of pregnant women.

Anyhow two major tenders in two days. If they pay off, I'll be able to afford twins after all :) Just kidding.

Still running at Pats and am getting out on my bike more as well which is good for overall fitness. My weekly mileage is below 50km which is pretty miserable but then again - every run I am really enjoying and nothing is taken for granted anymore.

My knee still gives me grief every now and then but nothing I am worried about. In fact since being pregnant my hip has not been a bother at all - which is totally amazing. So I think the hormones have fixed that issue that has been plaguing me for over a year.

I'm sure I will be much better once Canberra is over with. It has been hard to watch all my friends continue to train for that event whilst I just plod around and have no (running) goals. Heh who knows once Canberra is over - that first week afterwards I might even be able to keep up with Tesso :)

I am starting to look forward to Canberra - because for me now it will be a holiday. Chance to catch up with the family and with friends. Watch some great running and eat copious amounts of pasta.......aaaah the life of a non-running marathoner :)

Update

Okay so now you all know I am pregnant and not just overeating...... :)

The road has been tough on me with Canberra so close away but really at the end of the day as my buddy Tess says - "there's always another one". Marathon that is!

Went along to Pats this morning and did 8km. Did the warm up and cooldown with a bit thrown in the middle. No actual speed work, just a faster jog than the warm up. It was fun because there was a crowd in the group who were going only 80% as they are racing on the weekend at Mooloolaba Triathlon so I was able to stick with them - better than running on your own.

I am really missing not running long distances (funny I am not missing speedwork too much hee hee) but after receiving an email from CR Queen (Dawn Tiller) I have a better idea of what I can accomplish during the next 30 weeks. A simple 10km a day is 70km a week - which is where I usually like to be at. After the last few low weeks I'd even be happy to be running 50km a week for the next few months.

Oh and btw if anyone has a cure for 'lunchtime sickness' please let me know. It seems to be between 12-2 when I feel most unwell. Aside from that - all is well.

Two Days Training

WEDNESDAY
Tutor Tesso said it would be good to go to the gym...so I did. Ran on the treadmill (=airconditioning) and it felt fantastic. The heat really has been rocking me around lately.
I ran for 8km and could have done a marathon (and more importantly WANTED to) but I had to go to work. Felt really positive after this session as it is something I can see myself doing for a long while.

THURSDAY
A nice cool morning so speed session at Pats was looking enticing. The warm up was good - I got the chance to catch up with Tesso (we hadn't spoken for amost 48hrs, excluding emails of course) and before you knew it the session was started.
5mins, 4mins, 5mins, 4mins.
I was running quite slowly and still found myself in the middle of the pack which really shocked me. There is a fine fine line between running fast and hurting and running slow in regards to the distance you cover in 5mins. I am so amazed that when I've run really hard I only gain another 300m or so to when I am running comfortable. Just like that person who is so far ahead of you and you just can't catch them in a race but you find out your times were only seconds apart!!
Amazing stuff and running slowly - you get more time to think about it all.

The head was pounding a bit on the return efforts from the exertion (ha ha) so I walked a bit here and there but overall was happy to just be out there running with no knee pain.
On the last effort Pat knew I was not at 100% so he asked me to take the music box (in a pram) up to the last hill where we would all be finishing. Yah...so I didn't have to do the last effort after all and just pushed the pram for 600m and sung and danced like a lunatic who'd just won the lottery.
.....anyhow I had fun and that's what it's all about.

Month to Date

I have only run 55km so far this month. That's just about what Tesso ran on the weekend *gulp*

Thurs 8/3 - 8km
Friday 9/3 - gym
Sat 10/3 - 15km 5:48 pace

Anyhow....I am really missing my running. Well I am still running - but I am missing the long long runs and the speedwork that I have been opting out of.
I was all geared up to go to Pat's this morning with my new fancy hat (courtesy of Tess) but after doing hours of vacuming and scrubbing last night I wasn't very well so decided to not run.

The Six Foot Track results have been amazing and I have been reading them over the past two days in awe. If anyone wants any motivation to run -you only have to look there. Some fantastic results and awesome performances. But when you realise how hard the run is - anyone that finishes is a champion in my eyes.

Now is the exciting time because the focus around Australia shifts to the next big race - CANBERRA!!!!

Easy Run

Started at the Regatta this morning at 5.30am - got there just in time. Staying in bed with the sun coming up later is already looking more welcome!

Tess was there - Toasty, Ciaran and Tara had already left to go and do more km's than what we were planning.
We ran out to the gardens and just kept a good 5:00 - 5:30 pace going the whole way stopping for the odd drink and to wring out the clothes from all the rain. Certainly got very cold and wet towards the end of the run - but neither Tess nor I were complaining, it was wonderful to run in.

12km all up and I am starting to feel that I will be at the start line of Canberra but will be taking it very very slowly. Maybe 4:30 pace. 4hrs 30mins that is!!!

CANBERRA ALL BOOKED

I was going to be driving down to Canberra for Easter with my family and then staying on for the following week for the Marathon.

Now I will be just flying in on the Thursday and coming home Monday afternoon.

I am really looking forward to the Marathon. I am having alot of problems running at the moment and have many niggles so it is unlikely that I will be running it on Doctors Advice - but I am still keen to go down there and watch JD, Toastie, Celeste, Blue Dog, Eagle, CJ and many others running it again. I am very excited.

My running partner iliketoast is not going to have the torture of running alongside me helping me achieve a pb of sub 3:20, so I hope that he works extra hard and runs a PB for both of us doing closer to 3:10. mmm no pressure!

I also hope Tess makes it to the start line. But if not it would also be fun to be together on the sidelines cheering everyone one.

Thanks for all your support.

8km Fish Run

8km Regatta Run - coach said to run 4km at 5min then turn around and run 4km back in 4:30min pace.

The first km was dismal at 5:12min - but I always warm up slowly so wasn't too worried.
Each km after that got faster so I decided to keep it going that way and I would be happy.

I knew I would have never been able to run 4km at 4:30min/km pace. I had 300ml of blood taken over the past two days which fatigued me a bit but moreso the weather was absolutely humid this morning. I thought I was hallucinating when another runner mentioned the breeze was really nice - obviously she was walking a lot - but thankfully Tesso backed me up and said it was one of our most humid days so far this year. Thank goodness - I was starting to feel like it was just me!!!

Anyhow, at the turnaround I was doing 4:50 and then got it down to 4:45, 4:40, 4:32 and final km was 4:31. I was very tired when I was running. My legs were really hurting and I thought I was going to spend the day in bed. My HR was also high for an 8km effort - around 165bpm.

But within a minute of finishing I felt great and wondered what all the fuss was about. Didn't eat for about 2hrs after my run - second time this week - which really annoys me as it doesn't help the diet or the recovery!!!!!

Now just one big bloomin long run to get through tomorrow and it will be a new week.......

PCRG - Final Countdown

Pat was talking about a countdown to Gold Coast and all I could think of was how many training days I had left until Canberra.
There are 33 more days of training. Following by 13 days of taper before RACE DAY.
Of those 33 days I am likely to need a rest day each week. So that is less than 30 days available to me. Holy Moly.

Today we had 3km warm up; 1km; 500m ; 1k; 500m; 1km and 3km cooldown.

I worked hard on the efforts but it was easy to tell that I was exhausted from the running and travel of the weekend gone by - even with a rest day yesterday. I heard Pat say 1st km was 3:58 but I started in the group after and I don't know when he started his watch. It was very confusing. I didn't wear my own watch because I didn't want the pressure of running to a time. The rest of the efforts I just tried to keep up with Tess and Celeste.

It was really good because on the last 1k Glenda ran beside me and told jokes whilst i was trying to breath, then she went onto somenoe else and I was struggling and about to die when Celeste went past me and said my name - which made me stick with her. It was a good feeling to be able to find something left.
When I finished I was very red faced and breathing really hard. I am sure my HR was way up. I decided to run down easy but when I started running I realised that my breathing got under control and I was able to keep an even pace all the way back until just at the top of the goodwill bridge, where I again faltered and slowed a bit.

I am happy with the session today and can't wait to do another Canberra Training Session. I just don't know how I will be able to manage holding it all together.

A hectic life:

Friday 16th - 3km race - crap run, 12:36
Saturday 17th - 12km - ha ha so much for long run
Sunday 18th - 10Miler - 1:19, felt great.
Monday /Tuesday - Sydney for work - no running
Wednesday - 20.5km Average 5:10
Thursday - Speed, PCRG. Mix of good and bad bits, slow and fast bits.
Friday - 12.5km throughout city of Sydney courtesy of Tour Guide Tesso.
Saturday - 5km race (21:06) 2km warm up and 3km cooldown - including Lilyfield hill rep
Sunday - 34.5km with JD, Eagle and Tesso. Average pace 5:03. Was a bit faster than that as I left garmin on when walking up some stairs very slowly (it was the last km!!!).

Feeling great now and ready for a kick ass week of running! Rest day tomorrow and then straight back into it again.

Canberra = 6 weeks to go~!!!!!!!!!!

Friday - Gym and Race

Hopefully Steve has signed off his computer and gone to get ready for his big marathon...so he won't see this post. I am resting - truly I am!

Actually this morning I WAS really lazy and just did a very short stint at the gym. More like laying on my towel pretending to stretch when I really was getting some extra zzzz's.

Tonight is the Brisbane Running Group 3km Challenge - a 3km race through the botanical gardens in the city. Sounds like fun, will hurt like hell and be followed up with a well deserved drink!!

Can't Wait! I'm dying to run again - it's been 51 hours since I last ran.......

Midweek 10Miler

Toastie, Robbie and I headed out for our usual Wednesday run from the Regatta, over the Storey Bridge and through Southbank back out to the Regatta. I cut the far corner by 300m so I calculated that today instead of 16.5km it was a 10Miler!!

I felt good during the run but was just keeping it an even pace. As soon we got on the bridge I turned the ipod on for some support. It was on the song that I was meant to finish with on Saturday at Caboolture...so it made me feel so good and strong that I surged quickly. The calves felt better for a bit of a fast run so I then decided to do a bit of fartlek on the rest of the way back. Made it hard to keep with the boys who must have thought I was playing games with them :) well I was...but as long as it all helps with the running.

Oh and Ewen, you can keep the 3:15 Canberra Bus Ticket...I'll be happy for a ride on the 3:19:54 bus. Thats the big goal.......

Speed Work

Turned up at Pats for another session this morning. And before Steve or Ewen growl me for it, let me say that I only turned up because it was Pats....and well you can't miss a chance to run with such a great group of friends....AND I didn't really do any speed work.

I took it easy and covered around 6km for the session and just floated as everyone else was doing 30/30 efforts. It was fun to not have to run hard.
I just couldn't imagine a Tuesday without starting it at P.C.R.G.

36.5Km Dusk Til Dawn - Caboolture Run

For starters - I have been forced to the new blogger so please resubscribe if you want updates. I'll be hunting down anyone who doesn't........ :)

What a night!

Right now I have a very sore toe and my walking reminds me of my grandmother and her cane...I don't have a cane. My stomach is aching from cramping all night (not during the run thank goodness) and I have been drinking copious amounts of water to flush my body.

Despite all that I had a great night. It really was a dream run. If you go to www.coolrunning.com.au you will see all the experiences of the night there from other runners as well.

As for myself, well it all started when Tesso picked me up and we spent several hours mischieviously laughing at our lack of preparation for this event compared to last year oh and the fact that Tess had been asked by our mutual buddy to load music on her ipod. Little did Lizzle know that Tess had put on all a total playlist of hilarious songs and we went through them laughing the whole way up to the race site.

It was good when Matt and Toasty arrived. I felt like the Running Buddies were there in full support. Toasty had no ambition to run this race other than to do what I was doing and be supportive in my build up to Canberra. He really was looking forward to running (NOT!!) and during the freak lightening storm decided we both had to pull out and not run tonight. Well rain or not we lined up to tap the hands of Geoff (Toasties partner) and Glenno (my partner) at the 3 hr mark and head off for our 3 hrs of fun.

I raced off in the first lap, primarily to get out of the crowd that had all turned around at the hour change (directions of the loop changed every hour). As I finished the first lap,Mark was just starting his first lap so I then had the impetus to run hard for another lap to go past him. Soon after 5km was up and I was telling myself to calm down and slow it up. I had been averaging 4:40's and the goal was to A. achieve 35km in 3 hrs. First and foremost this is what I really wanted.
After the first 20 laps (10km) I had a gu. The next lap was quite slow as I allowed the gu to digest - a race strategy that works for me. Then I told myself I would never get through this run if I focused on the time. Each lap the clock only moved 2:30minutes - so it would have been like watching a pot boil.
I told myself to get through the next 15 laps and my family would then be there (they had all been out go-karting all day until the storms hit). Sure enough..there they were. Then I told myself to go hunt some buffalo to get me through the next 10 laps. Here I told my lapscorer to yell out and do a dance when i hit 60 laps. I had decided I would be able to keep it steady until then and perhaps then be able to do a hard 10laps to finish it off.

At some stage she yelled out to me about 60 laps so I started running hard. After I did 10 laps I stopped and went up to her table...it was only 66 laps. Obviously she had been yelling "nearly 60" when I thought she said 60. *groan* So I had a tough mental decision to make. Run hard to finish the 70 laps I wanted or just run easy (I had time). I decided I was hurting badly and the best thing was to finish strong and I wanted to finish ASAP. So I umped the ipod and Choirboys saw me pump out some fast (for me) finishing kms. I was really happy. At this stage I again finished and went up to the scoring table and was told I had completed 71 laps...aarrrgh.
I walked along and told my scorer and others who were encouraging me to run that I had done what I had set out to do - 35.5 km in 2:55. Then the Bufflo (aka toastie) came up and pushed me along telling me to run the time out with him. It was really good for me and a very emotional lap as we jogged along and I realised I had achieved my goal and then some. All up in 3hrs we did 36.2km but tonight they included the last lap as they required you to run to the finish instead of staying on the course so the scoresheet says 36.5km.

I just loved all the support I got during the event and especially before the event from all the blog comments. I have a mobile device so i get my email on my phone. Even when we were travelling up to the race I was able to read inspiring comments from you all that you posted on my blog. It was all just great. I can't thank you all enough.
Thanks also to CJ I hope to be able to put up some fancy photos for you to see. Unfortunately the one with the camera never has shots of herself....or should I say fortunately :)

LATEST

Sorry guys, but I think I'm going to have to refrain from blogging next year, but thats okay, after the olympics I'll be back


Just a ho-hum rest day today.

Lazy Sister

It was fun at Pat's this morning. We had a great turnout - of newbies!!! OOOOOWWWEEEENNNN finally dragged his sorry ass along. And I am sure he enjoyed himself and wasn't really sorry at all :) *waves*

Tess and I ran very easy to ensure we didn't injure ourselves or overtrain before Caboolture. All up I believe 9-10km. The rest of the group did:
3km warm up
4min hard, 30sec rest
4min hard, 30sec rest
turnaround
8min hard all way back
3km cooldown

It doesn't matter if you run easy or not. Doing 10km is still a load on the body.

Talking about loads on the body - my sis is piling on the weight from slacking off in her training. I asked her why she had lost motivation. She said she was fully motivated but too scared to train. I thought this was weird until she went to her local pool and took some shots for me - these are from Darwin.

Wednesday Run

How droll....had 20km @5min pace in the program.
Managed 10km @ 5.28min pace.

Just didn't feel up to it this morning despite the fact that I had made up my mind to cut back the mileage to assist me with my run at Caboolture this Sat. I don't think I could have done 20km anyhow!!!

VIDEO KILLED THE RADIO STAR....

Wonder who's going to kill the Video Stars??????????

Tess and I fronted up to Pats determined to have a great time and enjoy the day. It was really fun. We did the warm up slowly....not because we felt bad but because we wanted to get on the video ha ha ha ha As it turned out the cameraman wasn't ready by the time we went past him so we sped it up.

Once in the gardens it was great to see so many others there for the session - over 100 of us! ****101 TO BE PRECISE**** We had hill reps - which sounds bad but is a fantastic session that really works you whilst allowing you to see and cheer others in the group. For any newbies it is a good one to come to - they get the full support and encouragement as opposed to an out and back course session.

I did the first lot of hill reps as best I could. Then I picked on some others who seemed to be slowing or otherwise needing encouragement. Anna B was doing well until I pulled up alongside and yelled at her to get moving. Told her to mentally 'push all the paperwork off her desk and focus on getting up the hill'. It seemed to work and she put in a great effort.
Next on the target list was Cassie - she is doing 6hrs at Caboolture this weekend and I suspected it was her last hard session before then....so best make it work I thought! I pulled up alongside and raced her to the top. She did so well, I know she is going to have a good run on Saturday.

Next I heard Pat tell us to finish it off. So I cut short the recovery (and got the full disapproval of PUNTERMATT) and went up the hill again. Toastie didn't like me being in front so he zoomed past with every last ounce he had (I could tell as he didn't even wave when he went past).
It all seemed to be over so soon.

On the cooldown Tess and I took it easy and made our entrance back to the group in true style - on the back of Flash and Phantom that is! Will be amusing to watch in the video.

After a quick lippy application and change of hat, I was off to stand beside Pat and Tess for the group shot. Very proudly I might add.

I just love being a PCRG runner!!! (ps it's not compulsory to do the 20 pushups after a run, but if Tess does em - I have to. If I do em, Toastie has to....and on it goes...)

Long long long run - Saturday

36km in 3:19

The Garmin showed a few hundred metres shy of 36km but I am confident I did the distance anyhow. I was keen to keep going to finish off with a snazzy 36:00km showing on the garmin but wasn't feeling too crash hot so decided to stop being so anal about the exactness of the distances and finished it there at the car.

Cooled down in the pool for 5mins before heading to the cafe for breaky.

At breaky I got unwell from all the food smells. I was very nausea-ish and my body was trying to get me to lie down on the cool floor and forget about the world. I got through and ate my eggs and rye toast before coming home and collapsing in the shower.

It is moments like these that my husband questions my 'healthy' sport.

Thanks to Toastie, Tess, Matt and Celeste for running the distance with me today. I can honestly say it never felt like that far so I was really happy with the distance. We ran average 5:40min/km pace which hurt at first to run that slow but I fell in the groove and it suited me okay for the last 16km. My final 2km I picked it up to just over 5min pace but I was really buggered then and looking to finish.

Thursday No Watch Run

Out there again at PCRG. Really makes my day worthwhile when I start it with a run with the group.

11.2km averaged 4:40min/km pace

Tess and I had a plan - to warm up, then run 4:40 pace, then ease off before doing a fast 1km no-watch-run.

It was not much fun out there this morning. I was trying to be focussed but was actually finding it a bit hard going. I ran slowish to warm up, ran several 4:36, 4:40, 4:41, 5:05 and a 3:56 to finish. All up the average was 4:40 but rest assured there were some slower k's in there somewhere!

Now - like CJ I am severely looking forward to tomorrows rest day before a big 36km run with Tesso & Mark on Saturday.

MIDWEEK LONG RUN

Thanks for all your commments guys, it is great to read them and get your educated (and hilarious) feedback!!!

Most of you will know that I am trying to follow the CSIRO diet at the moment. It is much lower in carbs than what I am used to, so this morning was interesting.
Tuesday night I would usually have some pasta of some sort before the mid week run.
Last night was grilled salmon and salad. And I was home early enough so we ate at 6.30pm.

This morning I woke up feeling good but a bit depeleted of energy - so I ate a banana. I don't normally eat before my runs so it was hard to get down.

I did a few km on my own before joining Mark and Robbie at 5.30am and we headed out to New Farm from the Regatta. Not sure how many km it is (though Tess will let me know for sure)...we turned around at the Bowls Club and came home.
Including the first few km I did Garmin read 22.5km but I suspect it was slightly more as I always lose the garmin when going under the freeway/gardens so not exactly sure.

Distance: 22.5km
Average Pace: 5:00min/km

I was so thankful to the banana. I felt great on the way home and it was disgustingly hot out there. Just when I thought I would die I got a surge and was able to run home quite comfortably. The average pace was around 5:07min/km but we did a few really fast kms so that brought the whole average down for the run, even including my first few km that would have been around 5:35min pace!!

I just can't get over how great I am feeling. I don't know if it is the diet, or the training break I had (sore foot) or simply the fact that I am increasing the training load. Either way it is helping me get through what would otherwise be some onerous runs in disgustingly hot/humid conditions. Maybe it is just all the support I am getting from you bloggers out there............. ;)...*waves*

Time Trial - 3km

Pretty happy with my run this morning. Not because of my time but because I was able to be consistent and I felt great throughout the run. No niggles from the weekend and no soreness that is outside the 'to be expected' variety.


SPLITS
1km - 3:54
1.5k - 5:59
3km - 12:06

I was aiming for 12:10, felt like I was running 11:30pace and ended up with 12:06.

I do believe that next time around - with similar conditions - I will be able to do an 11:55. So that's the goal.

FEB - 11.55
MAR - 11.45
APR - 11.35

Thats a big ask....but that's what I am aiming for. Reach for the stars and all that stuff!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007 GALEFORCE TRAINING CAMP

What a weekend! I feel like I need a holiday just to get over it!

Friday
13km in absolute humitidy on rolling hills with Tesso and friends before leaving for camp. Beautiful scenery!
2hr Hike up Mt Pomona and the area (10:1 gradient!!!)
40min beach run (with shoes!) followed by swim
30min stretching session
30min Nutrition Seminar
Quiz night

Saturday
4.30am start - 2hr run through Noosa National forest. Very hilly, start was on the beach and we had to climb 219 steps in the dark before trudging our way in soft sand climb to appropriately named Hells Gate lookout. Meandered into Noosa and back out to Sunshine Beach.
7am - Swim and stretch Class
9am - Eumundie Markets
10.30 - Hike around Mapyleton Falls area. Swim in cold lake.
4pm - Dinner Prep
5pm - 40 min beach run after 219 stair race
6pm - swim and stretching
7.30pm - Guiness drink at the pub

Sunday
5am - Slow recovery run 1:15hr over beach, gravel/sand paths on rolling hills in Noosa National park.
7am - stretch and swim.

There was a 4hr hike in the Glasshouse moutains on the way home but we had to race home to get shoes for Matts school. It was a great weekend. Totally enjoyed it in a kind of perverse I-really-like-hurting-aching-muscles-and-pushing-myself-to-the-limits kind of a way.

Guess what - today (Monday) is a rest day!

Midweek 16km run

Started out at the most humid time of the day again!!
Met up at 5.30am and we did the usual Wednesday course around Brisbane city, over the Storey Bridge and back to the Regatta via Queen Victoria.

We stopped regularly for water - which was very necessary as it was extremely humid.

It took us 1:19 to do this run. I have run much faster but I was still happy to get around and just complete it. As per previous runs of late the foot pain was intermittent so I am very confused. I am sitting here at lunch with my foot in a bucket of ice & water (do you know how BLOODY PAINFUL that is??) and I have been applying Voltaren so hopefully things will start to settle down soon.

It was weird starting out with Tesso and then leaving her to do her 90min walk around Brisbane. She is being very good and sticking to the plan set out with the physio of running only every alternate day. I am so proud of her.....but can't wait until she is back running and we can keep gossiping about all you mob!

500's at PCRG

It was a tough session today. Mainly because it felt like I was swimming and not running with the amount of sweat coming of me and those running around me - truly it was a hot day and everyone seemed to be feeling it.

We did the 3k warm up without too much fuss and then got straight into our efforts. 6 x 500m with 1x500m to finish.
The first effort was wonderful. Truly I felt fantastic and great to be out running again. The foot was flying along and in harmony to the rest of my body (as opposed to the limping effort of late). However I had to focus on my lungs after that first effort as I was having difficulty filling them with oxygen and maintaining my form.

Nonetheless I got through the seesion with only mild heart attacks and suprisingly no chucks at the end - though it WAS close!

I felt I worked hard today and was really happy with my performance. Then again, I have had the week off so I guess I was well rested and due to come back!

On the cooldown back to the Ship Inn my foot was aching badly. Really weird thing was it went away afer we stopped for water in the gardens about 1km from the finish. It has been intermittent all day in my work shoes but I can't say I feel anything at the moment as I type this. I am so over not knowing what it is that I have decided to run regardless and as (if) the pain changes or increases I will then submit to the MRI. In the meantime....there is training to be done!

FOOTAGE....

Um thats a foot update to those who haven't been around for a while :)

The Foot Doctor has reviewed the situation and laid to rest my worst fears. I can run again!

Diagnosis: Foot Strain/sprain and possible bone stress
Occurred: Over fatigued when beach running (after big week and stress of Mt Cootha) and did further damage running without shoes to support my toes/foot structure.
Treatment: Ice in cold icy water daily (no good just putting on ice pack) for 10mins.
Voltaren gel applied directly.
Run 5km Friday morning. No excess pain then run again Sunday for 10km. No excess pain then straight back into training.
Any excess pain experienced in either runs or that wakes me at night, an MRI on Monday.

It was interesting to note that if it does turn out to be a stressy it may be one of those ones that people can train through. Only reason we discussed that was because it doesn't seem to give the sort of pain that a stressy would but due to location of pain any tendonitis is ruled out.

Was good to come out of the Dr. room to find my bestest running buddy there waiting anxiously for the results. Thanks Tesso :) I guess that meant I couldn't fib and say in front of the Dr that he had said I could run for 30km on Sat hee hee :)

Cant wait to run tomorrow at last!! The only bummer of the day is my long run is ruled out this week so I will have to bike instead for a few hours.

FOOT UPDATE

Hah! Nothing to update. Except the gym has been busy swiping my access card.

Done some weights session and an RPM class. It is good for fitness but nothing like the joy (and pains) of running.

I am a fuckwit, a wanker, a complete moron. You can join in at any time. I don't really care because I am a stupid stubborn woman who deserves the abuse of my fellow friends.

Over a week ago my friends told me to get my foot checked out. Over a week ago we suggested remedies and possible scenarios together as I ran about why my foot was sore. Over a week ago....I should have done something.

Saturday I ran 28.5km. Average pace was 5:20 but most of the mileage was a lot faster with 2km very slow or walking - changing the overall average on the garmin.

It was a tough run. Not to mention the fact that my foot slamming into the concrete on each step was agony.
I tried to run on the grass at every opportunity. Looking stupid I ran on the hills or grassy sidewalks, preferring them to the wide footpaths or over the bitumen. It was the only little relief I could afford myself at the time.

Now I am knocking my head on a brick wall...why not I stamped my foot on concrete for three hours despite it hurting. What is it about runners that makes us so single bloody minded that we have to finish a run, that we don't admit our own pain or that we try to minimise the extent of our pain or injuries????? Are we really that masochistic? Why on earth do we both to fool even ourselves?

Anyhow I guess I won't be running for a couple of weeks as I suspect I have a stress fracture. Appointment with the foot doctor is the first thing on the agenda this week. Until then - its drowning for me (thats my style of swimmning for all those fishes out there).
Guess I can get out the bike thing as well *oh joy*...sorry Miners but some of us just arent' built to ride two wheels without motors :)

Thursday No Watch Run

As my foot has been a bit sore lately from coming down Mt Cootha to hard last week I decided to skip that session and head to Pats instead. Thankfully he wasn't scheduing a speed session and we had a 50min run on the books instead. Though getting caught talking to the faster runners in the group I certainly ran a lot harder and faster than I wanted to.

The 1km race at the end I didn't bother nominating a time and just run easy. Did 4:57min and the weeks running caught up with me so I stayed with Pat to call in the last few runners. I then walked all the way back to the Ship Inn for a pancake breakfast.

Oh and best thing of the day - I won the Group Member Award, which was a double pass to Gold Class cinemas woo hoo.

Speedy Kills - really it does!

Coach Chris said to run 15km in a controlled 4:45 min/km pace this morning.

I roped in Tara and iliketoast for the ride and we strapped on our rocket boots. Started the morning with a 1km run to warm up and then Mark got the whip cracking. I had garmin on virtual partner to tell me how I was doing but I should have ignored it - I totally lost track of the satellites and it took forever to get them again when I resurfaced from under the bridge. Hence it was saying I was too slow, so I sped up and left Mark & Tara behind. Then they went in front as I attempted to slow down and get back on pace....aaarrrrgggh. I am hopeless at this.

I was really pushing it and finding the pace tough going. It is a fairly hard run. We all walked the hill going up to the Storey Bridge to conserve energy - and my calves are still sore from the beach.
Going over the bridge for the first time I felt I was going to make this. I was really warmed up by now and ready to pump some action.

Going past the ship Inn and not stopping nearly killed me. It was good to do something different today but at the time I cried. Not nearly as much as when we went over Queen Victoria bridge - man that was tough. Exhausted and trying to keep up the pace running uphill is really hard. I slowed a little in the next km and did a 4:48, then we increased the tempo and did the last two km in 4:44 and 4:31. I would never have believed I could finish off like that.

The crazy thing is - I have to run that pace for the whole marathon!!!! So much training ahead of me still...
Run results: 15km in 1:07:00
Total run: 1:12:20 (1km at 5:20 to warm up)

GET FIT CHALLENGE

Okay it is official. Blogger Scott and myself have lauched vicious attacks at each other.
Well that certainly sounds a lot more dramatic than going on a diet!!!

Scott and I both need to lose weight, not because we are fat, but to get down to our racing weight before our key races.

Scott needs to lose 5kg and I need to drop 4kg. Scott needs to lose his weight by mid feb, I have till end of Feb. Might sound a bit harsh on poor old Scotty but my keen dietitian tells me it is easier for a male to lose that weight than a female. Oh and it just so happens Scotty has the added pressure of his race being on the 18th Feb!!

We both know the prizes we are going to give the winner....but we'll save that for a later post.

Rules:
Must still be able to train well (ie can't check in to hospital and have stomach pumped each day!!).
Can't chop off any body parts.
Must maintain fluids - weightloss can't be dehydration.
Must be progressive (ie can't drop 4kg overnight....mmm I wish!!)

Hopefully the joint venture will provide us both with will power and motivation at the times we need it.

*Interruption by Secretary*
Clairies response: no thanks, no Tim Tam for me today...

Ok I'm back - see it is working already!!!

3km Time Trial

That time of the month again. I was sore all over during the warm up but was confident that I had done everything right. I had an early dinner, was in bed before 8.30pm, wore my long skins, had plenty of fluids beforehand. I was pumped.

The warm up and strides didn't feel too good but as soon as we started I was on fire. I was flying along and did 1:45 for the first 500m. Then I realised how silly I was so I slowed down and let the lead pack go. I was quickly overtaken by others and eventually made it to the turnaround at halfway in 5:58min. I was on target for a sub 12 and was feeling really good.

Then the wheels came off. I struggled past Tess and more people overtook me. Just as I reached Tess the 12min pacing group went past me and I groaned aloud I think. I had no excuse I just didn't want it enough.
Going up the hill I almost stopped to walk so I knew mentally I was in trouble.

I struggled home and 400m from the finish I saw Matty coming up, I increased the pace slightly and then when Matt reached me he told me to run hard and think of Canberra. so I did. Simple as that. As usual I sprinted hard and it didn't hurt anymore than the running I had been doing but I was damn fast. I flew past 'Afrikan Will' who had overtaken me 200m back and kept going till the finish. I crossed in 12:14 and was happy with the fast finish. At the 500m I was on target for a 12:20 finish so I had smashed the last few hundred metres. Now I just have to get the desire to do that the whole 3km!!!!!

Running Update # 2

Friday: 3km Gym treadmill, 60mins weights/stretching. (ok 60mins laying down on the ground pretending to stretch my back.

Saturday: 23.5km Mini River Loop through St Lucia, Indooropilly, Yeronga and back to Southbank skipping West End. A good run with fast moments and slow moments. The slow ones were at the end. That may sound logical but I had hoped that I would be able to finish strong on my long runs by now. So the plan for next weekends run is to go easy and be able to finish as strong as I start.

Sunday: 55min beach run. The run that was not supposed to be. I have a suspected sore foot. Well it IS sore but I am hoping it is nothing overly much to worry about. It doesn't hurt when I am barefoot :)
5mins knee high water, 5mins soft sand, 5mins hard sand. REPEAT 3 times finish off with 10mins water running to cool down.

Monday: Rest Day....I need it, first day back at work and I have the Holiday Is All Over Blues.

Running Update

Just a quick one.

Starting to feel very weary. The aftereffects of the flu thing and also the amount of training of late.

Tuesday - Speed session at Pats. Only did 80% effort but kept the recovery time down to compensate.

Wednesday - 16.5km. Went out easy, upped the pace midway, came home easy then did a hard last km - well it felt hard but was only 4:30min/km pace. I was very tired...and cold...and wet. It rained pretty much the whole run.

Thursday - 9km. Mount Cootha trails. Was cool again this morning and Chris had a plan to make us work for it. He sent us off in groups A, B & C with 2mins in between each starting. I was in group B. The idea was to catch the members of the group in front of you. I did that within 15mins but was also overtaken by the C group quite easily (oh dear..). It was fun but the weird thing was we all worked so damn hard it was our fastest run ever on that course. Coach was very impressed. I was very sore. Icing my ankles now as they were hurting alot from the downhills. I need new shoes :(

New Years Resolutions

For the past few weeks I have been suffering from a bad chest cold that has caused me to not do many runs.

Christmas Day I had the pleasure of running with my running buddies and then wheezing whilst I watched them run many more laps than I was able to.

I rested a week after Kurrawa and then ran again because everyone was doing the Green Bridge initiation run. I just couldn't miss out when everyone else in Brisbane was christening the new bridge. It was a 17.5km run and I honestly can't recall going up some of the hills. But the bridge I remember. It was lovely. Thank goodness it was overcast and not overly hot.

I went to bed for three days and was generally miserable.

Christmas Day I had the pleasure of running with my running buddies and then wheezing whilst I watched them run many more laps than I was able to.

I felt much better a few days later but decided against running hard for a week.

Saturday we did the Green Bridge run again - the opposite direction for the loop. It was fun and I realised how much I had missed out on the previous week.

Sunday 31st we did the New Years Eve run up Mt Cootha. It was tough but I felt great and loved it. Tess was tearing up the hill and I was amazed and in awe of her running ability.

This morning - 1st January 2007 I ran again with friends and did an hour running around the city greeting all those that felt seedy or for other reasons were on their way home after a long night out. It was fun but I was ready to just go back to bed after finishing.

The trek towards Canberra has begun and I am keen to get stuck into my training now.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES.