grrrr. So angry at myself for not blogging. I can't even recall what I have done since my last post but I do know I have been inconsistent. Mostly due to two things: pain and motherhood. Wow they go hand in hand don't they?!!
Pain - my left hip has been a constant ache for most of this year. I recall being concerned about it before Warwick but was embarking on a round of IVF for a friend so assumed it was all related to tests/injections/old shoes/training. So just kept up the usual minimal stretching and bought some new shoes.
Pain was bearable as it wasn't felt during a run - only in the car afterwards or when sitting for long periods at home/work/movies etc.
Motherhood - well that is one constant I wouldn't give up or try to work out. Some days I can run, others I have a sick or dependant child whom I need to work around to fit in any running. It is frustrating but only on the bad days when I don't get out for a run a few days in a row.
Putting the two of those together the last few weeks have been hit and miss...mostly miss. I am now on my way out the door to get a scan done on the hip - after having a sports doctor and running podiatrist both diagnose TFL pain (ITB that is presenting at the hip). Not sure about cortisone or may just stick to conventional treatment...for now I need to rule out Bursitis.
A bit of update that I can recall:
I managed a 20km run this past weekend, a 28km run the weekend before. So the long runs have been ok. Averaging just under 5min/km but mostly I can sit comfortably on a flat road around 4:40min/km. The hills, sand, stopping and not adjusting my watch, talking or socially running alongside someone/having the pram etc all contribute to a slower pace. I'm happy with my long runs.
The speed is what is missing. I haven't been doing hills in past few weeks and don't little in the way of speed aside from 1km repeats and races. I feel it has still been acceptable but now with a race only 10days away that I wanted to do well in...I am very under prepared. Always the way. I just wish I had blogged it daily so I could actually recall what I have /haven't done!!!
So todays blog - 1 x Scan (results to come) and no run. Next update - stand by!
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Sunday, October 16, 2011
BRRC - 14km Club Championships: GREAT
It was always going to be an amazing day. Being Toasty's birthday he was planning a big night Saturday with his wife and was not to keen to back up in the morning with a hard full core run. So he did what all good partners do...he choose to run with me as a pacer for my planned 4:40min/km pace 14km run.
It started out early for me. I got a reasonable nights sleep and was fresh, albeit hungry, in the morning. After two days of no running due to extreme weather and work conditions, I was GOING to run today no matter what. A can of V got me going and I rocked up early to BRRC.
Toasty and I headed out for a warm up and did about 2.5km of very easy running with maybe one or two pulses to update the heartrate.
We headed back to the start line with about 5mins to spare and caught up with Tesso and had a few good laughs with various fellow runners. I felt good and ready to rumble though a bit nervous - as I always am when trying to head for a specific pace.
We headed off in the starting pack and it was just a crazy but great feeling to be running with the really fast runners for the first 100m. In fact the first km was 4:15...mmm Toasty was not going to be much help today. GRRRRRRRR
It didn't get any better. I felt amazing for the first 4km and I really wished it was a 5km race. I could have nailed a sub 20 today I honestly believe. I was feeling that good!
Ahh was not to be. It was 14km and I had another two laps of 2x5km to do. We kept a good pace of approx 4:23 for the next 5km. Then we blew out a couple of 4:27 amongst some 4:15km. It felt even paced, the slower km were at the water stations or when my ipod drove me crazy. The fast km were when I had a good song or the water was kicking in.
I glanced over at Toasty from time to time and he was just cruising (bastard) but it was good to have him there even though I was not listening to him and hating every muscle in his body. We had time to call out to a few people and try to pose for photos so it wasn't all hard work!
At the end we crossed the line in good shape with a 1:01:01 awesome! I crossed the line feeling amazing and knew straight away I was going to recover well (ie not spew). 14km wasn't too long that we had pushed the limit beyond my capabilities.
The average pace worked out to be 4:18min/km so Toasty totally failed in his role as 4:40min/km pacer but I think we both knew outright he was never going for that anyhow. I just hoped his hangover was stronger than his desire to push me hard and see me get a great result from the run. For some crazy reason I ended up with a gold medal - first in my age group. 4th Female overall. Happiest female on the day!!!!
I spent 20mins releasing my hip when I got home so I'm hoping I can walk properly tomorrow.
I'm sitting here after a great run, then a great morning with my family, then a great afternoon with my running friends and now a great glass of wine!
How can I say life is anything other than GREAT.
It started out early for me. I got a reasonable nights sleep and was fresh, albeit hungry, in the morning. After two days of no running due to extreme weather and work conditions, I was GOING to run today no matter what. A can of V got me going and I rocked up early to BRRC.
Toasty and I headed out for a warm up and did about 2.5km of very easy running with maybe one or two pulses to update the heartrate.
We headed back to the start line with about 5mins to spare and caught up with Tesso and had a few good laughs with various fellow runners. I felt good and ready to rumble though a bit nervous - as I always am when trying to head for a specific pace.
We headed off in the starting pack and it was just a crazy but great feeling to be running with the really fast runners for the first 100m. In fact the first km was 4:15...mmm Toasty was not going to be much help today. GRRRRRRRR
It didn't get any better. I felt amazing for the first 4km and I really wished it was a 5km race. I could have nailed a sub 20 today I honestly believe. I was feeling that good!
Ahh was not to be. It was 14km and I had another two laps of 2x5km to do. We kept a good pace of approx 4:23 for the next 5km. Then we blew out a couple of 4:27 amongst some 4:15km. It felt even paced, the slower km were at the water stations or when my ipod drove me crazy. The fast km were when I had a good song or the water was kicking in.
I glanced over at Toasty from time to time and he was just cruising (bastard) but it was good to have him there even though I was not listening to him and hating every muscle in his body. We had time to call out to a few people and try to pose for photos so it wasn't all hard work!
At the end we crossed the line in good shape with a 1:01:01 awesome! I crossed the line feeling amazing and knew straight away I was going to recover well (ie not spew). 14km wasn't too long that we had pushed the limit beyond my capabilities.
The average pace worked out to be 4:18min/km so Toasty totally failed in his role as 4:40min/km pacer but I think we both knew outright he was never going for that anyhow. I just hoped his hangover was stronger than his desire to push me hard and see me get a great result from the run. For some crazy reason I ended up with a gold medal - first in my age group. 4th Female overall. Happiest female on the day!!!!
I spent 20mins releasing my hip when I got home so I'm hoping I can walk properly tomorrow.
I'm sitting here after a great run, then a great morning with my family, then a great afternoon with my running friends and now a great glass of wine!
How can I say life is anything other than GREAT.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Time to do something completely different...
Last night I had a good laugh with myself going through the blog and looking back over the years. 2006 was a good year for running for me. I had time. That seems to be the key thing!!
I can't believe some of the training weeks I did. Not so much that I was doing more mileage but I was doing Spin classes and going to the gym at least 4 times a week. Man I wish I was back there!
I have a full time job and a busy household with a husband who is frequently away so my opportunities to run (or do anything else) are quite limited. That said I am determined to use the blog (this blog) for some good. I intend to go back through some training sessions and repeat ones that I like. From now on I need to detail more the training and how I felt through it and also what else impacted on it - sleep/diet/stress so I can learn from it. I am frustrated from some of the lack of detail that is in some of my older posts..so I will learn from that.
Today I ran 21km. Toasty ran 20...so I had to do more.
It wasn't easy but after getting out for a run yesterday and turning that into a walk I was keen to run long today. I ended up dropping my baby off at childcare and then heading out. The skys were full of clouds but it was sunny. So hot and humid was the tone of the run. At the 6km mark there was a tap and it was only when I stopped to get some water I realized how much I was sweating. Geez Louise Summer had arrived.
I was enjoying my run but I was working more than I should have been. I need to make a conscious effort nowadays to eat some red meat...Im hoping it is just that. I am getting good sleep and the stress at work seems to be no more or less than usual.
I got to the local park and the garmin had 10.37km. Wow was going to be a 20+km run. I rounded it out at the end to include an additional street go take me to 10.7 for the return journey - had to be able to add a km!!
The first half was average 4:50min/km pace. The second half was average bang on 5:00min/km pace. Yep the second half was ugly. It was hotter until the last few km when a cool breeze came through, but it was hillier (as in uphill) and my legs were stuffed. This running caper sux.
Though medically impossible I was starting to think I was pregnant. Had all the same symptoms and straight after the run my breakfast consisted of a bowl of chilli mussells...WOW hope they add some iron back into me. Don't want to be a crazy runner who does crazy things like that again!
I am looking forward to some long runs and some shorter shaper races to keep me on my toes. I just hope the legs can come to the party and start to feel less used....
I can't believe some of the training weeks I did. Not so much that I was doing more mileage but I was doing Spin classes and going to the gym at least 4 times a week. Man I wish I was back there!
I have a full time job and a busy household with a husband who is frequently away so my opportunities to run (or do anything else) are quite limited. That said I am determined to use the blog (this blog) for some good. I intend to go back through some training sessions and repeat ones that I like. From now on I need to detail more the training and how I felt through it and also what else impacted on it - sleep/diet/stress so I can learn from it. I am frustrated from some of the lack of detail that is in some of my older posts..so I will learn from that.
Today I ran 21km. Toasty ran 20...so I had to do more.
It wasn't easy but after getting out for a run yesterday and turning that into a walk I was keen to run long today. I ended up dropping my baby off at childcare and then heading out. The skys were full of clouds but it was sunny. So hot and humid was the tone of the run. At the 6km mark there was a tap and it was only when I stopped to get some water I realized how much I was sweating. Geez Louise Summer had arrived.
I was enjoying my run but I was working more than I should have been. I need to make a conscious effort nowadays to eat some red meat...Im hoping it is just that. I am getting good sleep and the stress at work seems to be no more or less than usual.
I got to the local park and the garmin had 10.37km. Wow was going to be a 20+km run. I rounded it out at the end to include an additional street go take me to 10.7 for the return journey - had to be able to add a km!!
The first half was average 4:50min/km pace. The second half was average bang on 5:00min/km pace. Yep the second half was ugly. It was hotter until the last few km when a cool breeze came through, but it was hillier (as in uphill) and my legs were stuffed. This running caper sux.
Though medically impossible I was starting to think I was pregnant. Had all the same symptoms and straight after the run my breakfast consisted of a bowl of chilli mussells...WOW hope they add some iron back into me. Don't want to be a crazy runner who does crazy things like that again!
I am looking forward to some long runs and some shorter shaper races to keep me on my toes. I just hope the legs can come to the party and start to feel less used....
Monday, October 03, 2011
Mondayitis
I had Mondayitis this morning. THEN I RAN. It disappeared.
Toasty and I went for a light jog in the cool morning - it was wonderful to have no pressure and just be coasting along the river and taking in the sights. Was a bit chilly but nothing unbearable. I was tired still - I am going to keep noting that to see how it affects my performance and training so excuse the repeatedness - though again I was glad to be on my feet running. I have to run when I can with Billy and Allan's shifts.
I had intended to run a 2km warm up...we got to 3.5k before I even looked at the Garmin!!!
Down to business Toasty was mean and made sure we stuck to the plan and did some tough love 1KM efforts. Not the sort of thing I felt like after Sunday's run and I think Toasty was as tired as I was.
The first effort was torture. I was following Toasty all the way (no big suprise) and after 500m was ready to fling myself in the river. Or in front of a car. Or bike. Or just lay down and cry. I would have taken any option by my feet were doing their thing and turning over. Before I knew it we stopped and I gasped for air...THAT WAS HORRID. The thought of doing that all over again (x3) was hurting my head. But I was in a partnership and having dragged Toasty out I wasn't going to give up now.
The next effort was cruisy. I was in the zone and completely suprised to realise I was a second faster than the first one. Wow. I thought for sure it was way slower with a bit of wind, being uphill slightly and well simply...not being the first one.
The next two just got better and better. Though I really did not want to do anymore. The last one was not even running..it was CHASING. I was desperately trying to close the gap between the two of us. I knew it was impossible but it was something to aim for and a fun game.
Timing was split like this:
3:53min/km
3:52min/km
3:53min/km
3:46min/km
The coffee, then hot shower afterwards were all the reward I needed. A truly awesome way to get rid of the Monday morning blues.
Toasty and I went for a light jog in the cool morning - it was wonderful to have no pressure and just be coasting along the river and taking in the sights. Was a bit chilly but nothing unbearable. I was tired still - I am going to keep noting that to see how it affects my performance and training so excuse the repeatedness - though again I was glad to be on my feet running. I have to run when I can with Billy and Allan's shifts.
I had intended to run a 2km warm up...we got to 3.5k before I even looked at the Garmin!!!
Down to business Toasty was mean and made sure we stuck to the plan and did some tough love 1KM efforts. Not the sort of thing I felt like after Sunday's run and I think Toasty was as tired as I was.
The first effort was torture. I was following Toasty all the way (no big suprise) and after 500m was ready to fling myself in the river. Or in front of a car. Or bike. Or just lay down and cry. I would have taken any option by my feet were doing their thing and turning over. Before I knew it we stopped and I gasped for air...THAT WAS HORRID. The thought of doing that all over again (x3) was hurting my head. But I was in a partnership and having dragged Toasty out I wasn't going to give up now.
The next effort was cruisy. I was in the zone and completely suprised to realise I was a second faster than the first one. Wow. I thought for sure it was way slower with a bit of wind, being uphill slightly and well simply...not being the first one.
The next two just got better and better. Though I really did not want to do anymore. The last one was not even running..it was CHASING. I was desperately trying to close the gap between the two of us. I knew it was impossible but it was something to aim for and a fun game.
Timing was split like this:
3:53min/km
3:52min/km
3:53min/km
3:46min/km
The coffee, then hot shower afterwards were all the reward I needed. A truly awesome way to get rid of the Monday morning blues.
BRRC - 5km Time Trial and Tesso's Birthday Run
After a few days running (ha ha no pun intended) with the bare minimum of sleep I was exhausted. Life is a juggling act and at the moment my balls are all up in the air and one of them is going to crash. Hopefully soon work, home, health, friends and sports will sort themselves out and get back into some manageable form of chaos.
I honestly had no expectations of the run on Sunday. In fact being Theresa Fabians birthday I had promised her I would come and run 10km and then head to breaky together. I knew I couldn't do it (10km race) the day before when I started drinking a few beers and the hubby wanted to whisk me away somewhere we we had been before and had a great night. Time to re-create the scene he thought..mmm sick kid, long day..not quite the best lead up. Anyhow it was a great night but very long (driving out bush and then home again just after midnight).
I was up at 4am (THANKS TELSTRA and bloody daylight savings) instead of 5am so I went back to sleep and then slept in. Thanks to a can of V I revived myself sufficiently to drive the car into West End and caught up with the crowd.
The 10km was a Handicap race so Tesso ended up being scheduled to start just 1min before the 5km race at 6:30am. Sweet. We warmed up together and I was glad then to not be running the 10km.
Long story short I ran well. Finished in 21mins exactly though Garmin had a bit longer distance on the watch (?) and said average pace was 4:09min/km. I know the first one was 3:55 and the second I slowed down into a more comfortable 4:14min/km. I haven't looked at what the others were but you can work it out I am sure. The headwind coming home on the out and back loop made it a tough day out there but it was good to work hard and finish.
I'm happy I started.
I'm happy I finished.
I'm happy I made it to breakfast.
Happy Birthday to my best friend Tesso xxxxxx
I honestly had no expectations of the run on Sunday. In fact being Theresa Fabians birthday I had promised her I would come and run 10km and then head to breaky together. I knew I couldn't do it (10km race) the day before when I started drinking a few beers and the hubby wanted to whisk me away somewhere we we had been before and had a great night. Time to re-create the scene he thought..mmm sick kid, long day..not quite the best lead up. Anyhow it was a great night but very long (driving out bush and then home again just after midnight).
I was up at 4am (THANKS TELSTRA and bloody daylight savings) instead of 5am so I went back to sleep and then slept in. Thanks to a can of V I revived myself sufficiently to drive the car into West End and caught up with the crowd.
The 10km was a Handicap race so Tesso ended up being scheduled to start just 1min before the 5km race at 6:30am. Sweet. We warmed up together and I was glad then to not be running the 10km.
Long story short I ran well. Finished in 21mins exactly though Garmin had a bit longer distance on the watch (?) and said average pace was 4:09min/km. I know the first one was 3:55 and the second I slowed down into a more comfortable 4:14min/km. I haven't looked at what the others were but you can work it out I am sure. The headwind coming home on the out and back loop made it a tough day out there but it was good to work hard and finish.
I'm happy I started.
I'm happy I finished.
I'm happy I made it to breakfast.
Happy Birthday to my best friend Tesso xxxxxx
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
BRRC - Way to Go
The written word is never as exciting as hearing it personally. WAY TO GO is me jumping up and down with a huge grin and being incapable of stopping the giggles...its just an awesome feeling.
(just in case you misinterpreted it for 'way to go...in getting better or improving or something).
anyhow back to me...
Ran the BRRC 15km on Sunday after having the WHOLE WEEK off..did I mention I didn't run all last week. Nearly went crazy and got divorced, quit my job and moved to Vietnam to take up house building...but decided I didn't want to miss the weekend running squad!
The foot seemed no more improved for the break. It didn't hurt at all to be walking in high heels but as soon as I put the runners on I could feel pain. GRRRRRrrrrr
Funny enough I went out for a warm up and thought..gee I'm not likely to finish today's run. I'll start though and attempt to complete the 15km but as it was 5km loops I could pull out at any time.
Once the race started I was distracted into trying to chase Adrian Pearce (no hope - he was off!!) and listening to my ipod. WHO LOADED THAT SHIT ON MY IPOD?? I had to keep FF the songs to something with a heartbeat otherwise I was going to be doing Karaoke and singing along to Kenny Rogers!
I finished first female - yah I guess but having no real competitors takes the buzz off. I was wrapped that Jo Sherman was there to watch and cheer for me and give encouragement as well as tips on my form (i was looking good1!!) Aside from that no real females I knew were running/racing with me.
I got through the first loop and was happy with the clock time, went through the second loop at the same time - even happier. However I hurt bad on the last loop. I think it was my fastest but I was also over it. I wasn't enjoying the run and my foot had started to hurt. I am so proud of myself and I had all the reasons in the world (in my head) to just stop...but I kept it going. I had no idea of my placing as there were two ladies in front of me by about 400m. I closed the gap on the last loop to 100m but they were still in front. Imagine my suprise when they didn't cross the finish line and kept going - woohoo they were in the 20km race that had started at the same time. *shallow victory*
Looking at the Garmin I averaged 4:26min/km. Gotta be happy with that after a week off. Even happy to note the km were roughly all around 4:27/4:28 with the first km being 4:23 and the last being 4:16. For me that's even pacing!!
Now to work on this foot and get back to the serious business that is training.
(just in case you misinterpreted it for 'way to go...in getting better or improving or something).
anyhow back to me...
Ran the BRRC 15km on Sunday after having the WHOLE WEEK off..did I mention I didn't run all last week. Nearly went crazy and got divorced, quit my job and moved to Vietnam to take up house building...but decided I didn't want to miss the weekend running squad!
The foot seemed no more improved for the break. It didn't hurt at all to be walking in high heels but as soon as I put the runners on I could feel pain. GRRRRRrrrrr
Funny enough I went out for a warm up and thought..gee I'm not likely to finish today's run. I'll start though and attempt to complete the 15km but as it was 5km loops I could pull out at any time.
Once the race started I was distracted into trying to chase Adrian Pearce (no hope - he was off!!) and listening to my ipod. WHO LOADED THAT SHIT ON MY IPOD?? I had to keep FF the songs to something with a heartbeat otherwise I was going to be doing Karaoke and singing along to Kenny Rogers!
I finished first female - yah I guess but having no real competitors takes the buzz off. I was wrapped that Jo Sherman was there to watch and cheer for me and give encouragement as well as tips on my form (i was looking good1!!) Aside from that no real females I knew were running/racing with me.
I got through the first loop and was happy with the clock time, went through the second loop at the same time - even happier. However I hurt bad on the last loop. I think it was my fastest but I was also over it. I wasn't enjoying the run and my foot had started to hurt. I am so proud of myself and I had all the reasons in the world (in my head) to just stop...but I kept it going. I had no idea of my placing as there were two ladies in front of me by about 400m. I closed the gap on the last loop to 100m but they were still in front. Imagine my suprise when they didn't cross the finish line and kept going - woohoo they were in the 20km race that had started at the same time. *shallow victory*
Looking at the Garmin I averaged 4:26min/km. Gotta be happy with that after a week off. Even happy to note the km were roughly all around 4:27/4:28 with the first km being 4:23 and the last being 4:16. For me that's even pacing!!
Now to work on this foot and get back to the serious business that is training.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
A lonely sport
Life is so damn bloody typical! Right when I should be about to launch into a program of running, running and more running; right when I should be able to see some results and get some speed; right when the weather is turning and the daylight hours are increasing....I get bloody injured.
My right foot is currently experiencing what I call "Plantar Fascitis"symptoms. I call it that because I won't get help. Won't get an official diagnosis. So damn cranky. Just going to sit it out and hope for the best. Today is worse than yesterday which was bad because I didn't run and wanted to. Today I just want to sit and whinge and cry. Who cares about running anyhow??
Why is running so addictive? Why does it fulfil something in our lives that no-one and nothing else can fulfil? I've heard others say it is better than sex...well that is just plain silly. Sex is what you do with someone else. Running is all you. You train for it, you either work hard at it or you don't...you have good days and you have bad days and you have these HUUGGGEEE endorphins running through your body to reward you. No one else can run for you. Support you, train with you, help to push you through a barrier - yes but in the end IT IS ALL YOU.
You never feel the isolation as harshly as when you are injured and everyone around you is running EXCEPT YOU.
My right foot is currently experiencing what I call "Plantar Fascitis"symptoms. I call it that because I won't get help. Won't get an official diagnosis. So damn cranky. Just going to sit it out and hope for the best. Today is worse than yesterday which was bad because I didn't run and wanted to. Today I just want to sit and whinge and cry. Who cares about running anyhow??
Why is running so addictive? Why does it fulfil something in our lives that no-one and nothing else can fulfil? I've heard others say it is better than sex...well that is just plain silly. Sex is what you do with someone else. Running is all you. You train for it, you either work hard at it or you don't...you have good days and you have bad days and you have these HUUGGGEEE endorphins running through your body to reward you. No one else can run for you. Support you, train with you, help to push you through a barrier - yes but in the end IT IS ALL YOU.
You never feel the isolation as harshly as when you are injured and everyone around you is running EXCEPT YOU.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Running is like Sex....
...I'm just saying.
You head out and do something you are familiar with and BAM it takes your breath away. You just have that awesome run where the legs turn over and take you where you want to go, the breathing is settled and you feel very capable of achieving anything.
Today was one of those days. One of those runs.
Mark was doing a trial to see how his legs were working after his physio and rest days - big GC goal coming up. I was just along for the ride. I certainly didn't expect to even enjoy today after completely exhausting myself yesterday (and this week). Suprise Suprise.
We headed out to Orleigh Park from the Ship Inn just as the light was coming up, which meant a sleep in for me as I have been starting early for most runs this past month. (Can't wait for summer!!)
If I was honest, I was a bit apprehensive about how I was going to go with this run. I didn't want to hold Mark back - and certainly I wanted to see if I could run with him the whole way - but I just assumed my tiredness and sore legs were going to get the better of me. I just never felt a bad spot the whole way.
I'm guessing we ran about 12km under 5min/km. We saw lots of fellow friends out there on the way who were all happy to see Mark running. Tesso and I had a hug mid-run (she was doing a marathon pace run with the Intraining crew). It was just perfect all round.
Heading back to the Ship Inn I was tempted to just keep running. You know its a good thing when you don't want to stop. Maybe I wasn't running hard enough?? I was concious of Mark though and we pulled in at the beach and got our breath back.
That post run glow will keep me happy for many days. I just wish I could adjust to the cold showers like I can to the increase in km!!!
SOUTHBANK BRING BACK THE HOT WATER!!!!
oh did I mention the breakfast? Its been so long since I have eaten at Poppys and it was just perfect to finish the run there with Katy and Mark. Off now to face the non-running tasks of the world...sigh.
You head out and do something you are familiar with and BAM it takes your breath away. You just have that awesome run where the legs turn over and take you where you want to go, the breathing is settled and you feel very capable of achieving anything.
Today was one of those days. One of those runs.
Mark was doing a trial to see how his legs were working after his physio and rest days - big GC goal coming up. I was just along for the ride. I certainly didn't expect to even enjoy today after completely exhausting myself yesterday (and this week). Suprise Suprise.
We headed out to Orleigh Park from the Ship Inn just as the light was coming up, which meant a sleep in for me as I have been starting early for most runs this past month. (Can't wait for summer!!)
If I was honest, I was a bit apprehensive about how I was going to go with this run. I didn't want to hold Mark back - and certainly I wanted to see if I could run with him the whole way - but I just assumed my tiredness and sore legs were going to get the better of me. I just never felt a bad spot the whole way.
I'm guessing we ran about 12km under 5min/km. We saw lots of fellow friends out there on the way who were all happy to see Mark running. Tesso and I had a hug mid-run (she was doing a marathon pace run with the Intraining crew). It was just perfect all round.
Heading back to the Ship Inn I was tempted to just keep running. You know its a good thing when you don't want to stop. Maybe I wasn't running hard enough?? I was concious of Mark though and we pulled in at the beach and got our breath back.
That post run glow will keep me happy for many days. I just wish I could adjust to the cold showers like I can to the increase in km!!!
SOUTHBANK BRING BACK THE HOT WATER!!!!
oh did I mention the breakfast? Its been so long since I have eaten at Poppys and it was just perfect to finish the run there with Katy and Mark. Off now to face the non-running tasks of the world...sigh.
The Saturday Slog
I'm starting to feel tired. My legs are great, doing all the right things...maybe twinging here and there but in a good way - I can feel them!!
Today was going to be a drag - literally! With no babysitters I had to take Billy in the pram for our planned 21.1km practice run at race pace. This was going to be interesting.
In actual fact it was totally fun. Tesso and I talked and ran and KEPT TRYING TO SLOW DOWN. I hardly noticed the pram - well except on the small rise out to Orleigh Park. Billy was wonderful - just sat there the whole time.
After about 80mins though I was feeling the pull of my muscles that you use when you run with a pram (arms/stomach) as opposed to the legs and I was not all that comfortable.
I wrapped the run up at about 17.5km - we were close to averaging our race pace and that was good enough for me. I know with the delays to the start, the water tables and just running back and forth, we will nail this and ensure those around us have a ball as well.
I was completely exhausted a few hours later - totally incapable of even watching TV (Cairns Ironman was on!!) and just crashed and burned. Nothing a good steak and a restful sleep didn't fix though!
Today was going to be a drag - literally! With no babysitters I had to take Billy in the pram for our planned 21.1km practice run at race pace. This was going to be interesting.
In actual fact it was totally fun. Tesso and I talked and ran and KEPT TRYING TO SLOW DOWN. I hardly noticed the pram - well except on the small rise out to Orleigh Park. Billy was wonderful - just sat there the whole time.
After about 80mins though I was feeling the pull of my muscles that you use when you run with a pram (arms/stomach) as opposed to the legs and I was not all that comfortable.
I wrapped the run up at about 17.5km - we were close to averaging our race pace and that was good enough for me. I know with the delays to the start, the water tables and just running back and forth, we will nail this and ensure those around us have a ball as well.
I was completely exhausted a few hours later - totally incapable of even watching TV (Cairns Ironman was on!!) and just crashed and burned. Nothing a good steak and a restful sleep didn't fix though!
The Joy of Running
Friday morning - another work day and the weekend is within reach but not quite here yet.
I woke up and began to worry already - what have I committed to? Running Mt Coot-Tha after two big hill sessions already this week???? Idiot.
Still there I was sitting in the carpark way too early - didn't want my fellow companion to turn up and not find me there!
Graham arrived and we took a few minutes to ensure we had the right equipment on (he had two pairs of gloves!!) and then we headed off. An easy pace, it was very dark and we adjusted our eyes as we headed off down the road.
I do recall mentioning to my friend that we usually re-group up the top at the flat bit just after the first TV station. He said 'but we're running this together, we won't need to re-group" ha ha ha that was just before his hot little heels became two glow worms in the distance.
It was great to have a little fox to chase, we both worked hard going up and still looked out around us to see the lights of Brisbane coming on. Such a magical hour.
Graham totally missed the top and kept going, but I had enough breath left to call out to him and get him back.
After that we just ran, mostly in companionable silence and totally enjoyed the breaking in of the new day.
We had a decent pace going on (I was just trying to madly keep up with him!!) and I felt the joy of running the undulations across the top.
We made it around the corner and put on the pace to get to the Summit.
Just Bloody Beautiful!!!
We stopped for a few minutes to give the view the respect it deserved and watch Brisbane rise from its sleep. You could just tell it was going to be a great day.
Off we trotted to finish off the run and made it back to the carpark in good time - not withstanding a quick jibe at two walkers who were taking up the whole road (well not really but it was fun watching Graham tease his sister who was out walking).
It was Graham's first time. But I am sure he'll be back...and I hope I'm there to try to keep up with him!!!
I woke up and began to worry already - what have I committed to? Running Mt Coot-Tha after two big hill sessions already this week???? Idiot.
Still there I was sitting in the carpark way too early - didn't want my fellow companion to turn up and not find me there!
Graham arrived and we took a few minutes to ensure we had the right equipment on (he had two pairs of gloves!!) and then we headed off. An easy pace, it was very dark and we adjusted our eyes as we headed off down the road.
I do recall mentioning to my friend that we usually re-group up the top at the flat bit just after the first TV station. He said 'but we're running this together, we won't need to re-group" ha ha ha that was just before his hot little heels became two glow worms in the distance.
It was great to have a little fox to chase, we both worked hard going up and still looked out around us to see the lights of Brisbane coming on. Such a magical hour.
Graham totally missed the top and kept going, but I had enough breath left to call out to him and get him back.
After that we just ran, mostly in companionable silence and totally enjoyed the breaking in of the new day.
We had a decent pace going on (I was just trying to madly keep up with him!!) and I felt the joy of running the undulations across the top.
We made it around the corner and put on the pace to get to the Summit.
Just Bloody Beautiful!!!
We stopped for a few minutes to give the view the respect it deserved and watch Brisbane rise from its sleep. You could just tell it was going to be a great day.
Off we trotted to finish off the run and made it back to the carpark in good time - not withstanding a quick jibe at two walkers who were taking up the whole road (well not really but it was fun watching Graham tease his sister who was out walking).
It was Graham's first time. But I am sure he'll be back...and I hope I'm there to try to keep up with him!!!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Wicked Wednesday
It was another glorious day running along the Brisbane River with the buddies.
I met Brett in the carpark early and we headed out for a quick stint at a warmup. 5:30am the group then took off for a steady 10km. Tesso and I had other ideas, we decided to practice our pace (5:37min/km) for our upcoming 2Hr Pacing gig at the Gold Coast Marathon. We were chatting and laughing and just having a good old time out there. But we couldn't run slow enough. It felt like we were walking pace at some places..but we still averaged 5:17min/km.
Whilst I had a great run, totally enjoyed the morning - and followed it up with a hot coffee on the bridge with my buddies...I am nervous about the upcoming gig and carrying through on my promises!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Torture Tuesday
It wasn't hard to get up this morning - I was already awake. Lots going on at work. EOFY etc etc
I was looking forward to running but didn't think I would have much in me. Suprisingly my butt was a bit sore from the mountain climb. It was going to be one of those days where I PLAN to do 80%.
Imagine my suprise when I got to Pats and saw he had a HILL SESSION planned *groan*
It was a long warmup with Tesso - we had lots to catch up on as we hadn't seen each other in two days!!! We made our way to the gardens just in time for Pat to call out for the strides to begin. A few of those and off we took for a 20min session of hills.
Go hard on the up and coast the downhills.
Damn I love this session. It is by far my favourite at PCRG.
My heart wasn't in it today but I worked hard nonetheless - more than the planned 80% and banked another worthwhile session. It was interesting to see who I could go past on the uphill - a lot of the fast guys/gals, but they totally kept going and blew away from me on the downhill where I had to drop back 99 gears to get my breathing under control.
One day, I vow, I am just going to hang on.
A note to self - just get out of bed and get there, the run will work itself out no matter how fatigued I feel!
I was looking forward to running but didn't think I would have much in me. Suprisingly my butt was a bit sore from the mountain climb. It was going to be one of those days where I PLAN to do 80%.
Imagine my suprise when I got to Pats and saw he had a HILL SESSION planned *groan*
It was a long warmup with Tesso - we had lots to catch up on as we hadn't seen each other in two days!!! We made our way to the gardens just in time for Pat to call out for the strides to begin. A few of those and off we took for a 20min session of hills.
Go hard on the up and coast the downhills.
Damn I love this session. It is by far my favourite at PCRG.
My heart wasn't in it today but I worked hard nonetheless - more than the planned 80% and banked another worthwhile session. It was interesting to see who I could go past on the uphill - a lot of the fast guys/gals, but they totally kept going and blew away from me on the downhill where I had to drop back 99 gears to get my breathing under control.
One day, I vow, I am just going to hang on.
A note to self - just get out of bed and get there, the run will work itself out no matter how fatigued I feel!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Wow wow Wow! - Mt Coot-Tha
You take a few days off to face the stresses of life that are not related to running...and just assume its going to take its toll when you next lace up those shoes.
Then magic happens. You load the ipod up with some meaningful beats and hit the familiar road to test the legs. Zoom you're off. Yep that happened to me tonight. I had to laugh when I saw two cyclists in the distance and worked my way up to gain on them. Done. As I went past they said óh the shame overtaken by a jogger'. I had to retort "I'm a RUNNER!!!" They were too far back to hear me I am sure :)
I got to the top and the family went past in the car to check on me (it was getting quite dark). I tried to run as hard as I could to get around the Mountain so they didn't worry so much. Allan knew how much I needed this run so he told me to go around TWICE and they'd meet me at the top.
The first loop was amazing. I still now, a couple of hours later, can't put into words the emotion and feeling I had when I turned the corner and saw the Summit. Running up to the top was just sublime and I took a few seconds to watch the last of the sun go down.
I won't bother discussing the next loop up again. It was hard and I hurt and I was very stupidly running in the dark - even the police stopped to check after some idiots hooted and were driving crazy.
But the run was all about that first loop. Just need to get faster and life would be perfect!
Then magic happens. You load the ipod up with some meaningful beats and hit the familiar road to test the legs. Zoom you're off. Yep that happened to me tonight. I had to laugh when I saw two cyclists in the distance and worked my way up to gain on them. Done. As I went past they said óh the shame overtaken by a jogger'. I had to retort "I'm a RUNNER!!!" They were too far back to hear me I am sure :)
I got to the top and the family went past in the car to check on me (it was getting quite dark). I tried to run as hard as I could to get around the Mountain so they didn't worry so much. Allan knew how much I needed this run so he told me to go around TWICE and they'd meet me at the top.
The first loop was amazing. I still now, a couple of hours later, can't put into words the emotion and feeling I had when I turned the corner and saw the Summit. Running up to the top was just sublime and I took a few seconds to watch the last of the sun go down.
I won't bother discussing the next loop up again. It was hard and I hurt and I was very stupidly running in the dark - even the police stopped to check after some idiots hooted and were driving crazy.
But the run was all about that first loop. Just need to get faster and life would be perfect!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
2 Steps Forward...1 Back: 18km Mid Week run
Today was a beautiful morning for a run, I just couldn't get my mojo to run in sync with my legs. A few sleepless nights and not eating right totally made me feel like finishing the run early. It started out great though so was a bit of a shock to hit the wall.
I did a few km warm up with MattyO and made it back to the Ship Inn in time to depart with the 5:00am Buddies. We headed out to New Farm via Kangaroo Point over the Story Bridge. I was chatting and running with Tesso and after a few km we were running 4:50's quite easily. She dropped me on the bridge though and whilst I managed to keep running around 4:45-4:50pace they all got faster.
Ran with Brett and Graham for a bit then eventually after hitting the river again on the way home I let them go and just hung back. The calf and hip were killing me today. I think I'm on the verge of experiencing some intense pain that is very much NOT welcome. Might rest up tomorrow or maybe just book a massage. Got to be in top condition for my run on Friday.
I did a few km warm up with MattyO and made it back to the Ship Inn in time to depart with the 5:00am Buddies. We headed out to New Farm via Kangaroo Point over the Story Bridge. I was chatting and running with Tesso and after a few km we were running 4:50's quite easily. She dropped me on the bridge though and whilst I managed to keep running around 4:45-4:50pace they all got faster.
Ran with Brett and Graham for a bit then eventually after hitting the river again on the way home I let them go and just hung back. The calf and hip were killing me today. I think I'm on the verge of experiencing some intense pain that is very much NOT welcome. Might rest up tomorrow or maybe just book a massage. Got to be in top condition for my run on Friday.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
PCRG - a long one!
Was not too cold a morning but a bit lonely. Ran by myself most of the warmup over the Vic bridge and around into the gardens. It was good to ease into the run.
The strides are my favourite bit of the session at PCRG, they just seem to warm me up ready to run fast (doh! thats why we do them). But today it was terrible. I did a few and felt great, slowly increasing each one. All of a sudden chaos, runner down, blood, ripped clothes and a gut feeling that today maybe I should have stayed in bed. Wasn't my blood thank goodness (sorry Fi!!) but I felt bad as I was trying to get her to run fast with me.
The session commenced a bit late with 4min, 45sec rest, 4min 45sec rest and 8min all the way back. It was great and everyone seemed to be giving it oh 70%. For some reason people tend to go a bit slower on the longer repeats. I was flying past everyone. Maybe they were just scared I was going to trip them??
As usual Pat reserved a few 1min efforts at the end to finish it off with, so all up about 19mins of speedwork and roughly 10km.
I did the cool down with the A Team - Pretty Matt, Jason Hall, Clowes etc and felt like a fraud as they talked of their sub 3 marathon approaching all too soon. But it was good to keep the heart rate up a fraction.
All in all, I feel a comeback on the horizon.
The strides are my favourite bit of the session at PCRG, they just seem to warm me up ready to run fast (doh! thats why we do them). But today it was terrible. I did a few and felt great, slowly increasing each one. All of a sudden chaos, runner down, blood, ripped clothes and a gut feeling that today maybe I should have stayed in bed. Wasn't my blood thank goodness (sorry Fi!!) but I felt bad as I was trying to get her to run fast with me.
The session commenced a bit late with 4min, 45sec rest, 4min 45sec rest and 8min all the way back. It was great and everyone seemed to be giving it oh 70%. For some reason people tend to go a bit slower on the longer repeats. I was flying past everyone. Maybe they were just scared I was going to trip them??
As usual Pat reserved a few 1min efforts at the end to finish it off with, so all up about 19mins of speedwork and roughly 10km.
I did the cool down with the A Team - Pretty Matt, Jason Hall, Clowes etc and felt like a fraud as they talked of their sub 3 marathon approaching all too soon. But it was good to keep the heart rate up a fraction.
All in all, I feel a comeback on the horizon.
Monday, June 13, 2011
11km Recovery Run - Monday
Had just about the best possible run ever - the Recovery Run!
I'm still trying to work out what I was recovering from...ha!
Ran around 5:30 pace give or take for 11km but threw in about 6 x 100m sprints that got the heart rate up and racing.
Which brings to mind - I have no idea what my heart rate is sitting at these days. I tried to measure this afternoon but everytime Billy came to sit on my stomach it shot up to 80bpm. It was sitting around 62bpm lying on the floor but I think I need to actually do a test and see what I can record for my maximum as well as do the garmin test to measure the minimum first thing in the morning.
i will endeavour to find out my max and min this week. CHORE # 1.
I'm still trying to work out what I was recovering from...ha!
Ran around 5:30 pace give or take for 11km but threw in about 6 x 100m sprints that got the heart rate up and racing.
Which brings to mind - I have no idea what my heart rate is sitting at these days. I tried to measure this afternoon but everytime Billy came to sit on my stomach it shot up to 80bpm. It was sitting around 62bpm lying on the floor but I think I need to actually do a test and see what I can record for my maximum as well as do the garmin test to measure the minimum first thing in the morning.
i will endeavour to find out my max and min this week. CHORE # 1.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Its time to move!
This week I commence training.
I have no idea what I am training for, hopefully that will come. But I want the pain and joy and excitement that training gives when you achieve the little goals along the way and I want to see the benefits of training in both gains in speed (times) and fitness.
I am unlikely now to be doing City to Surf 2011, though I have entered it doesn't coincide well with other events in my life. We'll wait to see. Airfares are not yet booked.
I'm running Gold Coast Half Marathon as the 2hr official pacer with Tesso - that should be a lark. It will be good to finish and still have plenty of time and energy to cheer on all my friends to the finish of their big event.
Then there are months of training and small races of various kinds before December arrives and the K U R R A W A event is on once again. A rest of two weeks and then the real build up to Canberra. My goal would be to go sub 3:20, my A Goal being 3:15...but that all depends on the ability for me to focus and stick to my training over the next 9 months.
So hopefully this blog will be resurrected again for no other reason but to keep me honest and start a record of my training. Its Time.
I have no idea what I am training for, hopefully that will come. But I want the pain and joy and excitement that training gives when you achieve the little goals along the way and I want to see the benefits of training in both gains in speed (times) and fitness.
I am unlikely now to be doing City to Surf 2011, though I have entered it doesn't coincide well with other events in my life. We'll wait to see. Airfares are not yet booked.
I'm running Gold Coast Half Marathon as the 2hr official pacer with Tesso - that should be a lark. It will be good to finish and still have plenty of time and energy to cheer on all my friends to the finish of their big event.
Then there are months of training and small races of various kinds before December arrives and the K U R R A W A event is on once again. A rest of two weeks and then the real build up to Canberra. My goal would be to go sub 3:20, my A Goal being 3:15...but that all depends on the ability for me to focus and stick to my training over the next 9 months.
So hopefully this blog will be resurrected again for no other reason but to keep me honest and start a record of my training. Its Time.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Sydney City to Surf - August 8th 2010
Well that is one event I have now started...and finished! Whoooot! What a ride. I just wished I had been able to do some more training!
The hills I was mentally prepared for and I had told myself I was going to hurt the whole way. Unfortunately I was not prepared for them to start immediately into the run. I lined up at the start with Tesso and others (hi Flake!) and we raced off as soon as the gun went. I got through 2km in just over 8min so ummm yeah way faster than my current level of fitness required. I hit the wall then and felt like walking the rest of the way. Coming out of the tunnel I started to feel a bit more like I was getting a rhythm going and continued to run albeit a bit slower.
Heartbreak hill was a non event. I didn't really notice it being overly steep or for very long. I guess it was really good that everyone had talked it up so I was expecting it to be vertical and to last for 4km !!! The break of going up then down was really good for the body so I was able to go easy up hill then race downhill.
I hi-fived a few of the shocked kids on the side of the road and enjoyed seeing all the cheerers and entertainers along the way. Mostly I just enjoyed being there and doing the event amongst 80000 other runners!
Waved to Wayne at the 13km mark and then it was all over with. The last km was most frustrating...just couldn't get faster because of all the bodies and legs. I was happy to finish though and happy with my first attempt. Really happy to go sub 75.
Waiting for official time but my watch said 1:07:25
Hopefully will get a few key sessions in before Bridge to Brisbane in a few weeks!!
The hills I was mentally prepared for and I had told myself I was going to hurt the whole way. Unfortunately I was not prepared for them to start immediately into the run. I lined up at the start with Tesso and others (hi Flake!) and we raced off as soon as the gun went. I got through 2km in just over 8min so ummm yeah way faster than my current level of fitness required. I hit the wall then and felt like walking the rest of the way. Coming out of the tunnel I started to feel a bit more like I was getting a rhythm going and continued to run albeit a bit slower.
Heartbreak hill was a non event. I didn't really notice it being overly steep or for very long. I guess it was really good that everyone had talked it up so I was expecting it to be vertical and to last for 4km !!! The break of going up then down was really good for the body so I was able to go easy up hill then race downhill.
I hi-fived a few of the shocked kids on the side of the road and enjoyed seeing all the cheerers and entertainers along the way. Mostly I just enjoyed being there and doing the event amongst 80000 other runners!
Waved to Wayne at the 13km mark and then it was all over with. The last km was most frustrating...just couldn't get faster because of all the bodies and legs. I was happy to finish though and happy with my first attempt. Really happy to go sub 75.
Waiting for official time but my watch said 1:07:25
Hopefully will get a few key sessions in before Bridge to Brisbane in a few weeks!!
Friday, July 23, 2010
Groundhog Day
It all starts again. Time to get serious. This blog is my record for my training and now I'm finding I need it to keep me honest!
I'm running City to Surf in Sydney which is only 2.5 weeks away so not much chance to get some quality training in but I will at least try to get out of bed 4 times a week!!
Two years of fartassing around with no goals and no triumphs (or pains!) along the way. Two years of getting fatter and not fitter. Over it.
Off to pack my shoes for my weekend getaway that will definitely include a run somewhere!!!
I'm running City to Surf in Sydney which is only 2.5 weeks away so not much chance to get some quality training in but I will at least try to get out of bed 4 times a week!!
Two years of fartassing around with no goals and no triumphs (or pains!) along the way. Two years of getting fatter and not fitter. Over it.
Off to pack my shoes for my weekend getaway that will definitely include a run somewhere!!!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Wednesday - Mount Cootha
Distance: 9.5km
Time: 1hr ish.
Effort: Gutsy
Detail: Hills!! Run from JC Slaughter Falls around Mt Cootha. Was very dark and very cold. Security is a big concern and next time I will take a light. Not too many cars but the ones that did zoom past obviously didn't see us until the last minute or just didn't care.
Worked hard the whole way. I really felt the hill session in my legs still from yesterday but was determined to work hard all the way to the top. From there it was just a matter of keeping going. I was really happy with this run and could have done another lap quite easily...well started one at least!
Great to be on the hills again, can't wait until I am doing them easier.
Time: 1hr ish.
Effort: Gutsy
Detail: Hills!! Run from JC Slaughter Falls around Mt Cootha. Was very dark and very cold. Security is a big concern and next time I will take a light. Not too many cars but the ones that did zoom past obviously didn't see us until the last minute or just didn't care.
Worked hard the whole way. I really felt the hill session in my legs still from yesterday but was determined to work hard all the way to the top. From there it was just a matter of keeping going. I was really happy with this run and could have done another lap quite easily...well started one at least!
Great to be on the hills again, can't wait until I am doing them easier.
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