When I first told family and friends that I would be running the marathon and raising funds for Asthma UK, my good friend Nick donated a photo session for me to auction.
Nick is a first class photographer (check out his website at www.nickstephens.org), so this was always going to be a good way to raise funds.
Nick took some family photos for us last year, and even though I hate seeing myself in photos, I was thrilled with the results. I was telling a colleague this last week, and he commented that if Nick could make me look good in a photo then the session must be worth a fortune! Charming.
Anyhow, the auction has been running for the last two weeks, and ended this evening. I'm pleased to report that the winning bidder will be donating £75 to my total, and in return will get some beautiful photos...so everyone's a winner!
I've had another pledge of £50, so my total raised so far now stands at £1400, which is fantastic. With just a week to go, I'm hoping that will creep up a little more.
If you want to help nudge up the total, please go to www.justgiving.com/jasontherun
Every penny counts!
Saturday, 9 April 2011
Friday, 8 April 2011
My very own 15 minutes of fame
If memory serves me right, it was Andy Warhol that said everyone would be famous for fifteen minutes.Before today, my claims to fame have been sitting somewhere near Princess Anne at the Guildford County Show when I was about ten, and meeting snooker player Steve Davis in Preston. I've led a sheltered life, but today, all that has changed, and I have been catapulted to fame in the Bromsgrove Standard.
I guess there really is no backing out of this marathon thing now my entire neighbourhood knows what I'm up to!
The paper has very kindly printed my story, and my blog address, so for anyone visiting my blog for the first time as a result of the newspaper article, I'd like to wish you a very warm welcome. Please feel free to browse around and read what I've been up to, stay with me for the next few days and I'll tell you about my preparations for the big day, and in just over a week (aaarghh!!) you can come back and find out how I got on in London.
Although the paper printed my blog address, they sadly missed off my 'Just Giving' address. The real reason I am doing all this running is to raise £2600 for Asthma UK, and thanks to the generosity of family and friends I am well on the way to my target...and now you could help me, too!
I know times are difficult, and no-one has oodles of cash to spare, which is why I'm only asking for your loose change. Dig down behind cushions, check the pockets of your winter coats before you hang them in the deep recesses of the wardrobe and hunt in the ashtray in the car...gather all the pennies up, and please donate them to www.justgiving.com/jasontherun I keep saying it, but every penny really does count. Thank you!
If I haven't bored you too much, I hope you'll come back another day. Don't forget you can leave a comment in the box below...I'd love to hear from you!
Thursday, 7 April 2011
True inspiration
For the first time ever, I'm blogging twice in one day...and for good reason.
I was trawling one of the marathon forums earlier, and came across a link to a youtube clip. It's about a really inspirational man called Roger, and I was so moved by the video that I shared it on my Facebook page.
And then I did something I've never done before...I emailed Roger.
I wanted him to know that I had been really touched by his story.
I was surprised when, a few hours ago, he emailed me back.
He was full of encouragement for me, and has promised me that even if I'm walking oddly in the days after the marathon, I'll still feel like I'm walking on clouds! I can't wait to find out if he's right!
Roger is clearly one of life's nice guys, and is running the London marathon to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis. If you scroll down my blog, you should find a link on the left hand side to the youtube clip that moved me to tears.
I hope you will be moved by it too.
I was trawling one of the marathon forums earlier, and came across a link to a youtube clip. It's about a really inspirational man called Roger, and I was so moved by the video that I shared it on my Facebook page.
And then I did something I've never done before...I emailed Roger.
I wanted him to know that I had been really touched by his story.
I was surprised when, a few hours ago, he emailed me back.
He was full of encouragement for me, and has promised me that even if I'm walking oddly in the days after the marathon, I'll still feel like I'm walking on clouds! I can't wait to find out if he's right!
Roger is clearly one of life's nice guys, and is running the London marathon to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis. If you scroll down my blog, you should find a link on the left hand side to the youtube clip that moved me to tears.
I hope you will be moved by it too.
Don't forget the vaseline
Anyone who knows me will understand my obsessive need to make lists, be prepared and have a plan to cover every eventuality. I've been resisting the urge to gather all my kit together for the big day as I knew it would only compound my nerves, but with ten days to go I decided this was as late as I could leave it. So here goes...
- When I head down to Greenwich Park it will be early morning, so I plan to have a few additional layers that I will discard before the start - old fleece, spare socks, bin liner in case of rain (apparently they keep you warm, and make a good disposable rain mac!)
- I will, of course, have my running kit. I've trialled calf length leggings but found them a bit uncomfortable after 12+ miles, so will probably opt for my trusty long running trousers. (I wouldn't want to wear shorts - other runners would be put off their stride, and small children watching in the crowds could be permanently mentally scarred by the sight.)
- My trainers are Asics gels. They've done about 150 miles so have plenty of support left in them
- I'm opting for Hilly Mono anti-blister socks. They're the best I've found so far.
- I've been using Moleskin sore-spot sheets, cut to size, under the balls of my feet to help the blister situation, and use regular strips of plaster around most toes to stop any rubbing
- In my waist bag will be my inhaler (just in case), some dextrose and fudge, some tissues, a bit of cash and my phone
- My trusty Garmin GPS watch. I've been warned that this might well play up around Canary Wharf with all the tall buildings, but I hope for the rest of the course it will help me set my pace - especially in the first few miles when it will be tempting to head out too fast
- And last, but most importantly, I'll have my personalised Asthma UK t-shirt. I'm told the crowds cheering your name really helps - especially in the final few miles. I hope they cheer loudly for me!
I'm sure I'll add to the list as the days go on, and then pare it all down the night before. For the first time, I won't need to carry my own water from the outset as it will be handed out around the course.
So this is what my kit looks like. Now, where did I put that list....
Wednesday, 6 April 2011
Thank you...all of you
Today was my Uncle's funeral, and a day of mixed emotions. It is always sad to say goodbye to loved ones, and remember others that we have lost, but it is also nice to catch up with rarely seen friends and relatives.
It really brought home to me how much of what I am doing - my training and fundraising - is only possible because I have such supportive family and friends.
For months, my family have put up with me getting up early to run, arranging our lives around how far it is from 'x to y' and what time they will need to meet me there, and keeping me positive on the days when I haven't felt able to keep going. Family and friends have supported me tirelessly in my fundraising, and without their generosity I would still be trying to scrape together pennies rather than counting the hundreds. Far too often, I take for granted the people closest to me, so today I would like to say a big 'Thank You' to everyone who has helped me along the way.
In ten days time, I hope to be running 26 miles around the streets of London. Knowing that you're all with me in thought will give me the best possible chance of making it to the end.
Thank you. I couldn't do it without you x
It really brought home to me how much of what I am doing - my training and fundraising - is only possible because I have such supportive family and friends.
For months, my family have put up with me getting up early to run, arranging our lives around how far it is from 'x to y' and what time they will need to meet me there, and keeping me positive on the days when I haven't felt able to keep going. Family and friends have supported me tirelessly in my fundraising, and without their generosity I would still be trying to scrape together pennies rather than counting the hundreds. Far too often, I take for granted the people closest to me, so today I would like to say a big 'Thank You' to everyone who has helped me along the way.
In ten days time, I hope to be running 26 miles around the streets of London. Knowing that you're all with me in thought will give me the best possible chance of making it to the end.
Thank you. I couldn't do it without you x
Monday, 4 April 2011
I won't tell if you don't ;o)
I looked at the calendar this morning, and realised that there is just one more weekend between now and the big day. Aaaargh!!!
I teach creative writing at work on Monday mornings, and I set students the challenge of writing an 'Every...' poem, like the one I submitted for the Virgin Money marathon competition. It produced some interesting results, but proves that I'm not only dreaming about the marathon, but I'm even thinking about running while at work! It's taking over my life!!
With just under a week left to run (no pun intended), the photography auction has really taken off, and the current winning bid stands at £72.41 (although the bidder is hoping his wife doesn't find out that he's been bidding, or that he might just re-bid if someone beats him!). I won't tell if you don't ;o)
I was asked again today if I'm running in fancy dress. I explained that just taking part was frightening enough, without having to negotiate the London underground dressed as a sunflower/rhino/fairy. I'm brave, but I'm not that brave.
I teach creative writing at work on Monday mornings, and I set students the challenge of writing an 'Every...' poem, like the one I submitted for the Virgin Money marathon competition. It produced some interesting results, but proves that I'm not only dreaming about the marathon, but I'm even thinking about running while at work! It's taking over my life!!
With just under a week left to run (no pun intended), the photography auction has really taken off, and the current winning bid stands at £72.41 (although the bidder is hoping his wife doesn't find out that he's been bidding, or that he might just re-bid if someone beats him!). I won't tell if you don't ;o)
I was asked again today if I'm running in fancy dress. I explained that just taking part was frightening enough, without having to negotiate the London underground dressed as a sunflower/rhino/fairy. I'm brave, but I'm not that brave.
Friday, 1 April 2011
Preparation, preparation, preparation
The nearer it gets to the date of the marathon (now only just 16 days to go!!!) the more I find myself trawling the internet for scraps of information.
It isn't the clearest image, but hopefully you'll get the idea. Overall, it's a fairly flat course. The first six miles are a gentle downward slope, and it would be really easy to get carried away with the crowd and go too fast during the first quarter. The biggest uphill are at miles 19 and 23, so I'll need to prepare for those.
Out of interest, I googled 'London Marathon Elevation Chart', and although the one I found was for 2007, the course hasn't changed that much since then.
It isn't the clearest image, but hopefully you'll get the idea. Overall, it's a fairly flat course. The first six miles are a gentle downward slope, and it would be really easy to get carried away with the crowd and go too fast during the first quarter. The biggest uphill are at miles 19 and 23, so I'll need to prepare for those.We've also started looking at possible meeting up points. Hubby is quite keen to head straight to Cutty Sark early in the day, watch the elite runners fly past, and then see me trundle by a fair while later. It then looks like a short hop onto the Isle of Dogs (for hubby...not me!) and hopefully there'll be chance to spot me at mile 15 and 20, where the course doubles back on itself.
Anything after mile 20 seems a bit too fanciful to contemplate, although careful rendezvousing at the end will be required, as I don't think I'll be able to do anything for myself if I get as far as the finish line!
Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Counting sheep
I've slept really badly over the last few nights, and I think I can partly attribute it to a growing feeling of nervousness. The marathon is now less than three weeks away (!), and other than short runs to keep me ticking over, my training is done. I used to get worked up like this when I had important exams looming. Common sense dictates that lying awake mulling it all over doesn't help, but I can't seem to switch my brain into neutral during the small hours. I think I need to start some serious relaxation, beginning with staying in bed all day today rather than doing shopping, washing, cooking, cleaning, etc, etc...I wish! I'm also petrified of catching some evil cough/cold/sore throat or...worst of all...flu! Hubby has a very sore throat at the moment, and I'm trying to be very sympathetic while not getting within four feet of him. The thought of all this training, and then being struck with illness at the final hurdle just doesn't bear thinking about. I have decided that I'm going to put my treadmill up for sale on Ebay. It's served me well, and in the winter months when there was a blanket covering of snow, or on days when it was pouring with rain, it made all the difference. In my post-marathon existence, I fully intend to drop back down to short runs, and only when the sun is shining! As much as I've enjoyed the challenge of training, I don't think I'm built for such endurance, and I don't want to sacrifice almost my entire day off to long runs any more. It will also be quite nice to return the back room into a proper seating area rather than some kind of makeshift gym! The photography auction is going slowly, but bidding is up to £20 and there are still ten days to go. I've sent round email reminders, so hopefully more people will place a bid. I'm at almost 50% of my fundraising target, but I know there's still time and opportunity to raise more. You have been warned...I'm after your money! Every penny counts! www.justgiving.com/jasontherun
Saturday, 26 March 2011
Smile for the camera
Considering I did my 17 mile run yesterday, I feel remarkably sprightly today. There are a few niggly aches and a bit of sunburn, but otherwise I'm feeling fine and looking forward to 'the big day'...in just three weeks time!
Last week, I listed two donated items on Ebay, and the auctions ended this afternoon. I was thrilled that the items raised £32.50, and I'll add this amount to my justgiving page as soon as the funds have cleared. This takes my total raised so far to almost £1200, which is fantastic...but I'm hoping to raise more!
I've entered a poem into a competition run by Virgin Money, and the winner will win £500 towards their fundraising. It's a while since I've written a poem, and I guess there will be a lot of entries, but I'll let you know if I'm shortlisted...and then you'll all have to vote for me to win!
Also, my good friend Nick - who is a fantastic photographer - has generously donated a photography session for me to auction. (You can see his amazing photos at www.nickstephens.org) I've set up the auction on Facebook today, and the highest bidder by 9th April will win a photo shoot in Nick's Worcester (UK) studio, as well as a disc with the photos on so they can print as many copies as they want.
Whoever wins the auction will be treating themselves, or someone else, to memories that will last a lifetime.
As if that isn't enough, Nick will also donate £10 from every photo session booked by 30/4/11 (these sessions cost £65, and include one A4 print - further prints can be ordered at an extra charge. Please note: CD of photos not included in this package)
If you're reading this and would like more information about the auction, or you would like to make a bid, please get in touch via the 'comments' section.
If you'd just like to make a donation towards my fundraising for Asthma UK, go to www.justgiving.com/jasontherun
Ooh, it's all exciting, isn't it?!
Last week, I listed two donated items on Ebay, and the auctions ended this afternoon. I was thrilled that the items raised £32.50, and I'll add this amount to my justgiving page as soon as the funds have cleared. This takes my total raised so far to almost £1200, which is fantastic...but I'm hoping to raise more!
I've entered a poem into a competition run by Virgin Money, and the winner will win £500 towards their fundraising. It's a while since I've written a poem, and I guess there will be a lot of entries, but I'll let you know if I'm shortlisted...and then you'll all have to vote for me to win!
Also, my good friend Nick - who is a fantastic photographer - has generously donated a photography session for me to auction. (You can see his amazing photos at www.nickstephens.org) I've set up the auction on Facebook today, and the highest bidder by 9th April will win a photo shoot in Nick's Worcester (UK) studio, as well as a disc with the photos on so they can print as many copies as they want.
Whoever wins the auction will be treating themselves, or someone else, to memories that will last a lifetime.
As if that isn't enough, Nick will also donate £10 from every photo session booked by 30/4/11 (these sessions cost £65, and include one A4 print - further prints can be ordered at an extra charge. Please note: CD of photos not included in this package)
If you're reading this and would like more information about the auction, or you would like to make a bid, please get in touch via the 'comments' section.
If you'd just like to make a donation towards my fundraising for Asthma UK, go to www.justgiving.com/jasontherun
Ooh, it's all exciting, isn't it?!
Friday, 25 March 2011
The highs and the lows
Today was the day set aside for my longest training run - ever! It's also the last long run before the Marathon, as from now on I will begin to taper off so that I'm in peak fitness (!) for the big day.
The weather at the moment is glorious, and by 9.45am when I set off, it was already about 16 degrees. It was nice to head out knowing that I wouldn't need to tie layers of clothes around my waist as I warmed up, but by mile 4 I'd already finished my first bottle of juice and was glad I'd got lots of spare cash for supplies along the way.
I'd planned my route from Rubery to Worcester, mainly along the A38, but with a couple of diversions to allow for better paths.
I was determined to keep positive, but it was somewhat daunting to be doing such a distance on my own. (I had the phone numbers of taxi firms with me in case of emergencies!)
I'm pleased to report that the first six miles went past easily, although they were mainly on a gentle downhill. The was a killer hill at mile 6, a gentle climb from miles eight to ten, and another killer hill at about eleven and a half miles. Unfortunately, the path suddenly came to a halt at the bottom of this hill, and it took about 5 minutes to cross over the road as there was a constant stream of traffic. By the time I got across and started up the hill, my calves were on fire, and it took a couple of miles to feel comfortable again.
I felt that I was really flagging for the last three miles, but my times show that I was only marginally slower which is good to know.
I was so glad to make it to my Mum's, and even more glad to see that she was home. She welcomed me with a chicken sandwich, and I'm not sure anything has ever tasted so good!
All in all, it was a really good run. I was pleased with my pace, and my overall time, and now I've completed 17 miles with energy left in the tank I'm a little more hopeful that I'll make it to mile 26 on marathon day.
The best bit...? I now have the perfect excuse to do nothing all weekend!
I've photographed my netbook screen so you can see the elevation graph. Enjoy!
Wednesday, 23 March 2011
Back in the swim
Today had been a day set aside for doing all the housework that hasn't been done for the last two weeks. I knew there was furniture under all that dust, and it's nice to see it again. I also braved the supermarket for the weekly shop, which I'm sure is equivalent to a five mile run.
We very nearly went swimming last week, but dodged out of it at the last minute. We rashly promised the children that 'we would go swimming today, no matter what', and although they seem to forget about tidying rooms/doing homework/ cleaning out the pets, they had remembered our promise to go, so go we did.
Unfortunately, my heart just wasn't in it. A close relative is very poorly in hospital, and suddenly my goals and priorities seem very trivial in comparison. I managed 22 lengths, but gave up in favour of returning home to sit by the phone.
At least I've done something today, fitness-wise, and can now get on with the serious business of carb loading in preparation for Friday's 20 mile run. The big question is, can I count chocolate and cake as carbs? I'm going to say 'yes'.
We very nearly went swimming last week, but dodged out of it at the last minute. We rashly promised the children that 'we would go swimming today, no matter what', and although they seem to forget about tidying rooms/doing homework/ cleaning out the pets, they had remembered our promise to go, so go we did.
Unfortunately, my heart just wasn't in it. A close relative is very poorly in hospital, and suddenly my goals and priorities seem very trivial in comparison. I managed 22 lengths, but gave up in favour of returning home to sit by the phone.
At least I've done something today, fitness-wise, and can now get on with the serious business of carb loading in preparation for Friday's 20 mile run. The big question is, can I count chocolate and cake as carbs? I'm going to say 'yes'.
Tuesday, 22 March 2011
Cake, anyone...?
I got busy baking yesterday evening - apple, cherry and walnut friendship cake...mmm! - and took some into work to share amongst my colleagues. It seemed to go down well in a meeting this afternoon, and helped me to raise a bit more money, too.
I've started to mention to a few more people that I'll be running in the marathon, and have had huge amounts of positive support, which is great. I've also discovered that a colleague's husband is running the marathon, too, and was glad to hear that he did a 20 mile run at the weekend and is still standing, so there's hope for me yet! My 20 mile run is planned for Friday, and the forecast is looking promising.
I finally got round to paying in the bags of 10p's, 5p's, 2p's and 1p's today, and have credited them, and the other odds and ends of money, to my JustGiving account - www.justgiving.com/jasontherun. This means that my grand fundraising total now stands at £1150, which is fantastic! There's still a way to go, but I'm hoping that the nearer I get to race day, the more likely people are to sponsor me, and Asthma UK is such a good cause.
The items I've placed on ebay are doing well, too, and the auction doesn't end until Saturday. There are 29 - yes twenty nine! - watchers on the hairdryer. I've been back and checked the listing, and it definitely does just say hairdryer. I was worried that I'd described it as 'gold plated' by mistake. Maybe it's time to start auctioning off some unused bits and pieces. I'm sure hubby left an old set of golf clubs in the garage...
I've started to mention to a few more people that I'll be running in the marathon, and have had huge amounts of positive support, which is great. I've also discovered that a colleague's husband is running the marathon, too, and was glad to hear that he did a 20 mile run at the weekend and is still standing, so there's hope for me yet! My 20 mile run is planned for Friday, and the forecast is looking promising.
I finally got round to paying in the bags of 10p's, 5p's, 2p's and 1p's today, and have credited them, and the other odds and ends of money, to my JustGiving account - www.justgiving.com/jasontherun. This means that my grand fundraising total now stands at £1150, which is fantastic! There's still a way to go, but I'm hoping that the nearer I get to race day, the more likely people are to sponsor me, and Asthma UK is such a good cause.
The items I've placed on ebay are doing well, too, and the auction doesn't end until Saturday. There are 29 - yes twenty nine! - watchers on the hairdryer. I've been back and checked the listing, and it definitely does just say hairdryer. I was worried that I'd described it as 'gold plated' by mistake. Maybe it's time to start auctioning off some unused bits and pieces. I'm sure hubby left an old set of golf clubs in the garage...
Saturday, 19 March 2011
It's all about the money
For those of you who've been following my blog for a while, you'll recall that at the start of all this madness I gave out personalised collecting tins, and encouraged friends and family to save their small change for me.I'm not very good at asking for money - even though it's for such a good cause - so my thought was that people wouldn't miss the 1p's, 2p's and 5p's, and it would all add up...and I was right!
Thanks to the amazing generosity of friends, the first of the tins have found their way back to me, and after counting and bagging all the coins, it added up to £45! One of the tins also contained a £20 note, and a friend stopped me in the supermarket yesterday and donated £10, so a quick trip to the bank next week will show a healthy jump in my fundraising total.
I have also been given a rather lovely porcelain doll, and a freestanding hairdryer, which were both too good for a car boot sale. I've listed them on ebay today (with a free listing...every penny counts!!) and will be donating anything they make to the justgiving account. Only a few hours in, and there are already 4 watchers on the hairdryer. It makes a change - I'm usually buying things we don't need from ebay!
And...on top of all that...I've also squeezed in a two mile run. It has been beautiful weather all day, and was still warm when I ventured out this evening. Hubby came with me and insisted on setting the pace, but looked a little green when I suggested a second trip round the block.
For anyone who's been reading my blog over the last few months and would like to help me raise funds for Asthma UK, please take a quick trip to www.justgiving.com/jasontherun
There are now only four weeks to go until the big day, and any donation will really help to make a difference.
Thank you xx
Thursday, 17 March 2011
8 + 2 = 10 + a good deed
The sun was already peeking through the clouds this morning as I set out for my run, and by the time I'd done a couple of miles it was really warm. The sunshine, coupled with a vast array of daffodils, crocus', snowdrops and other spring flowers made the outing a real pleasure.
I did 8 miles using a run/walk strategy. This is 'the in thing' according to all the hype about it on the marathon forums, and seems to be a good way to keep a reasonable time without getting too exhausted.
My right Achilles felt a bit achy on and off, so I really must make the effort to stretch well three or four times a day from now on. Other than that, I would have happily gone further today and it was almost a disappointment to get home.
I went and gave blood this afternoon, which is always something that makes me smile. It's something that I can do easily, but could save someones life. The bonus today was that they had chocolate biscuits amongst the selection. It's about a mile each way to the blood doning session, although I walked and didn't run, but I think I'll add that onto today's total, just for good measure.
I did 8 miles using a run/walk strategy. This is 'the in thing' according to all the hype about it on the marathon forums, and seems to be a good way to keep a reasonable time without getting too exhausted.
My right Achilles felt a bit achy on and off, so I really must make the effort to stretch well three or four times a day from now on. Other than that, I would have happily gone further today and it was almost a disappointment to get home.
I went and gave blood this afternoon, which is always something that makes me smile. It's something that I can do easily, but could save someones life. The bonus today was that they had chocolate biscuits amongst the selection. It's about a mile each way to the blood doning session, although I walked and didn't run, but I think I'll add that onto today's total, just for good measure.
Wednesday, 16 March 2011
I am not a number
Well...not usually, but for the purposes of the London Marathon I am number 34594. This puts me at the red start with a few other runners. About 35,000 of them! It also makes it all very real, and I'm starting to feel quite nervous.
I've spent a bit of time in the last two weeks looking at the split times of runners from previous years, and it seems that a lot take up to half an hour to even make it across the start line, so it could well be nearer 10.15am before the clock starts ticking for me.
It's clear that a lot of runners get a really good time over the first 13 miles, but then really tail off for the second half. My plan is to resist the temptation to get swept up with the crowd and keep a close eye on my pace. I'll try to take it slowly during the first half in the hope that I don't run out of steam completely somewhere around mile 20. As that kind of distance is still uncharted territory for me, I guess I'll just have to see how it goes on the day.
The other piece of information I gleaned is that medals are only given out if you make it round in under 8 hours. How gutting would it be to make it all the way round and find that you don't get a medal after all?
Talking of running out of steam, I seem to have done that today. Although I managed to squeeze in a quick 4 miles this afternoon, I can't stop yawning, and chickened out of swimming this evening. I've promised that I will absolutely, positively, definitely go next week, so I don't think the family will allow me to get away with such laziness again.
If I can shake the yawns, I'm planning to do 8 miles tomorrow...there...I've told you now, so I'll have to do it.
Maybe I should have checked the weather forecast before I made that rash promise!
I've spent a bit of time in the last two weeks looking at the split times of runners from previous years, and it seems that a lot take up to half an hour to even make it across the start line, so it could well be nearer 10.15am before the clock starts ticking for me.
It's clear that a lot of runners get a really good time over the first 13 miles, but then really tail off for the second half. My plan is to resist the temptation to get swept up with the crowd and keep a close eye on my pace. I'll try to take it slowly during the first half in the hope that I don't run out of steam completely somewhere around mile 20. As that kind of distance is still uncharted territory for me, I guess I'll just have to see how it goes on the day.
The other piece of information I gleaned is that medals are only given out if you make it round in under 8 hours. How gutting would it be to make it all the way round and find that you don't get a medal after all?
Talking of running out of steam, I seem to have done that today. Although I managed to squeeze in a quick 4 miles this afternoon, I can't stop yawning, and chickened out of swimming this evening. I've promised that I will absolutely, positively, definitely go next week, so I don't think the family will allow me to get away with such laziness again.
If I can shake the yawns, I'm planning to do 8 miles tomorrow...there...I've told you now, so I'll have to do it.
Maybe I should have checked the weather forecast before I made that rash promise!
Wednesday, 9 March 2011
Killer Climb
The cough and cold that dogged me last week, and persisted over the weekend, is all but gone. It left me feeling quite wiped out, and I might just invest in some multi vitamin and mineral tablets to take over the next few weeks in the hope that I won't succumb to any other nasties.
The forecast for today was looking reasonably promising, with colder weather on the way tomorrow, so I decided that today would have to be 'long run' day. My aim was 14-15 miles, and I arranged with my friend who works in Droitwich that I would run there, and she would give me a lift home.
There were heavy and persistent rain showers all morning, but by the time I left home at lunch time it was looking a little more promising.
Having considered my route, I discounted the dual carriageway from Rubery to the M5 roundabout as the path stops midway, and I didn't fancy my chances mingling with the traffic. On that basis, I chose to head towards Rose Hill, but hadn't taken into account two important points. Number one, it should be renamed. 'Rose' Hill conjures up images of colourful scented flowers and delicacy. In reality, it's a long, hard, uphill slog, and from hereon in I will rename it 'Killer Climb'. Number two, I hadn't realised what a very long detour that route is, and I was four miles in before I seemed to be heading in anything like the right direction.
The first of the heavy downpours hit while I was descending Killer Climb, but was actually quite refreshing!
From there, I rejoined the A38 and headed for Bromsgrove. Unfortunately this was the first of many places where the path simply ends with no warning, and I found myself crossing, and re-crossing the road to find the widest, least muddy verge. Not wanting to tarnish my shiny new trainers, I left the A38 and headed right through Bromsgrove town centre.
Mile 10 saw me pass Webbs garden centre, and I was very tempted to make one last diversion and order one of their cream and marshmallow topped hot chocolates, but I didn't think they'd be too keen on a sweaty runner polluting their coffee shop, so I carried on towards Droitwich.
13 miles in, I knew I wasn't far from where I needed to be, but my hastily drawn map didn't seem to match the road names that I saw, and every direction that I looked in appeared to involve steep uphill climbs. A quick SOS call to my friend reassured me that I was close to her workplace, and she met me on her way home from work. I crumpled into her car, and we were soon back home. (I only wish the journey there had been that quick!)
The best news is, my hideous blister hasn't been made worse again, so the new trainers are already worth the money. My legs and back are a bit achy, and the bottoms of my feet are a little tender, but all in all, I'll call that a good outing.
There's only time for two more long runs now before the big day. I can't quite decide if that's a good feeling!
The forecast for today was looking reasonably promising, with colder weather on the way tomorrow, so I decided that today would have to be 'long run' day. My aim was 14-15 miles, and I arranged with my friend who works in Droitwich that I would run there, and she would give me a lift home.
There were heavy and persistent rain showers all morning, but by the time I left home at lunch time it was looking a little more promising.
Having considered my route, I discounted the dual carriageway from Rubery to the M5 roundabout as the path stops midway, and I didn't fancy my chances mingling with the traffic. On that basis, I chose to head towards Rose Hill, but hadn't taken into account two important points. Number one, it should be renamed. 'Rose' Hill conjures up images of colourful scented flowers and delicacy. In reality, it's a long, hard, uphill slog, and from hereon in I will rename it 'Killer Climb'. Number two, I hadn't realised what a very long detour that route is, and I was four miles in before I seemed to be heading in anything like the right direction.
The first of the heavy downpours hit while I was descending Killer Climb, but was actually quite refreshing!
From there, I rejoined the A38 and headed for Bromsgrove. Unfortunately this was the first of many places where the path simply ends with no warning, and I found myself crossing, and re-crossing the road to find the widest, least muddy verge. Not wanting to tarnish my shiny new trainers, I left the A38 and headed right through Bromsgrove town centre.
Mile 10 saw me pass Webbs garden centre, and I was very tempted to make one last diversion and order one of their cream and marshmallow topped hot chocolates, but I didn't think they'd be too keen on a sweaty runner polluting their coffee shop, so I carried on towards Droitwich.
13 miles in, I knew I wasn't far from where I needed to be, but my hastily drawn map didn't seem to match the road names that I saw, and every direction that I looked in appeared to involve steep uphill climbs. A quick SOS call to my friend reassured me that I was close to her workplace, and she met me on her way home from work. I crumpled into her car, and we were soon back home. (I only wish the journey there had been that quick!)
The best news is, my hideous blister hasn't been made worse again, so the new trainers are already worth the money. My legs and back are a bit achy, and the bottoms of my feet are a little tender, but all in all, I'll call that a good outing.
There's only time for two more long runs now before the big day. I can't quite decide if that's a good feeling!
Thursday, 3 March 2011
The wrong kind of running
Today should be the day of my long run, but the only thing running is my nose. I'm sure the gremlins snuck into my room last night and filled my sinuses with cotton wool, but despite all that I'm blowing my nose every 23 seconds and beginning to look like Rudolph. Even the dog has had enough of my coughing and sneezing and has chosen to sit in the hall.
I'm trying hard to keep positive, but I'm really frustrated that I could miss out this week on training, as there seems to be so little time left before the big day (six weeks on Sunday!). I'm hoping I'll feel a lot better by Saturday and get a good few miles done, even if it's not the 14-16 that I was hoping for.
Looking on the bright side, my best friend is holding a candle party next week and donating her hostess discount to my fundraising, so that'll be an excellent excuse for me to buy lots of lovely candles...well - it's all in a good cause, isn't it? (Hubby - if you're reading this, I'm only joking. Please don't hide my credit card.)
I've also had an email from Asthma UK to say that our final instructions will be posted out the week after next, along with the iron-on letters for my running vest. I've requested 'JAS' for the back and front, and know that the crowd cheering me on will make a huge difference, especially as I reach the point of exhaustion (probably at about the half way mark!). Thinking about it, maybe I should change my request to 'Help! Feed me Chocolate'...it might be more practical!
I'm trying hard to keep positive, but I'm really frustrated that I could miss out this week on training, as there seems to be so little time left before the big day (six weeks on Sunday!). I'm hoping I'll feel a lot better by Saturday and get a good few miles done, even if it's not the 14-16 that I was hoping for.
Looking on the bright side, my best friend is holding a candle party next week and donating her hostess discount to my fundraising, so that'll be an excellent excuse for me to buy lots of lovely candles...well - it's all in a good cause, isn't it? (Hubby - if you're reading this, I'm only joking. Please don't hide my credit card.)
I've also had an email from Asthma UK to say that our final instructions will be posted out the week after next, along with the iron-on letters for my running vest. I've requested 'JAS' for the back and front, and know that the crowd cheering me on will make a huge difference, especially as I reach the point of exhaustion (probably at about the half way mark!). Thinking about it, maybe I should change my request to 'Help! Feed me Chocolate'...it might be more practical!
Sunday, 27 February 2011
'Stitch in four places'
I'm pleased to report that 'the blister' is looking - and feeling - considerably better following an appointment with a pair of nail scissors and copious amounts of surgical spirit. I'm hoping that I've turned a bit of a corner with it, but only the next long run will tell.
Heavy rain all morning lead me to think that an outdoor excursion might be off for today, but around mid-afternoon the sun peeked through the clouds and the rain relented for a few minutes. Not wanting to waste an opportunity, I railroaded oldest daughter into coming out with me.
If you have ever travelled with small children, you'll be familiar with the 'are we nearly there yet?' question that accompanies every car journey. It seems that it's an ingrained habit that lasts well into the teenage years. At the end of the road, daughter asked if we'd done a mile yet. Not quite. Maybe 1/20th of a mile, but not a mile. This elicited a pout and a huff, but we motored on regardless.
We did a sprightly half a mile walk to warm up, and then a light jog for a mile. It was really good to have company, even though I was told more than once that 'I was trying to kill her' and that she had 'stitch in four places'. Don't ask.
We made it home as the clouds were turning black, and within minutes the rain was pelting against the windows again.
'We could do that again tomorrow', I said.
She didn't reply, but gave me a long hard stare.
I'll take that as a maybe.
Heavy rain all morning lead me to think that an outdoor excursion might be off for today, but around mid-afternoon the sun peeked through the clouds and the rain relented for a few minutes. Not wanting to waste an opportunity, I railroaded oldest daughter into coming out with me.
If you have ever travelled with small children, you'll be familiar with the 'are we nearly there yet?' question that accompanies every car journey. It seems that it's an ingrained habit that lasts well into the teenage years. At the end of the road, daughter asked if we'd done a mile yet. Not quite. Maybe 1/20th of a mile, but not a mile. This elicited a pout and a huff, but we motored on regardless.
We did a sprightly half a mile walk to warm up, and then a light jog for a mile. It was really good to have company, even though I was told more than once that 'I was trying to kill her' and that she had 'stitch in four places'. Don't ask.
We made it home as the clouds were turning black, and within minutes the rain was pelting against the windows again.
'We could do that again tomorrow', I said.
She didn't reply, but gave me a long hard stare.
I'll take that as a maybe.
Thursday, 24 February 2011
A catalogue of errors
This week is half term, and hubby and I have both had time off. Lots of rest and relaxation, you say? No. It's been a mad dash around to finish all the jobs that really should have been done a long time ago, like buy new school uniform, mend the broken banisters (ask the children about that one - grrr!) and ferry said children and their friends around the countryside.
Blister repair kit...a bit like a puncture repair kit, but slightly more sterile, and an awful lot more expensive
Training has been sporadic, and less than satisfactory, so I was determined to fit in my long run today.
I won't bore you with a long and complicated history, but hubby has some nerve damage in his spine that has resulted in a loss of sensation in his feet and legs. His patience and positivity throughout has been amazing. He could name a lot of downsides, but the one I notice most is the restless leg phase that hits him some nights. Unfortunately, last night was a particularly bad episode. Not that he'd know it. While he snored contentedly, his legs were doing the can-can, and by 7am I'd only managed about two hours of sleep, and was covered in bruises!
I won't bore you with a long and complicated history, but hubby has some nerve damage in his spine that has resulted in a loss of sensation in his feet and legs. His patience and positivity throughout has been amazing. He could name a lot of downsides, but the one I notice most is the restless leg phase that hits him some nights. Unfortunately, last night was a particularly bad episode. Not that he'd know it. While he snored contentedly, his legs were doing the can-can, and by 7am I'd only managed about two hours of sleep, and was covered in bruises!
Look on the bright side, I thought. I might be tired, but the sun is shining.
The persistent blister on my right foot has been quite sore this week, and I am trying various combinations of socks, insoles and dressings - along with liberal splashes of surgical spirit - to try to find a cure. This morning I applied a rather expensive moleskin dressing along with copious lengths of plaster to anchor it in place. It felt secure, and I was keeping everything crossed that this one would be a winner.
Rather than repeat the same old circuits, hubby had offered to drive me into Redditch so that I could make my way home. I happily agreed, and we set off bright and early. Doubts set in as I realised that the entire journey there was downhill, and this meant only one thing...the way back would be the opposite. Gulp. In hindsight I should have abandoned the plan there and then, but somehow it seemed easier to go with the flow.
The first six miles were the best. The blister plaster held, I made good time, and was soon at Hopwood. It was about that time that I really began to regret not taking my jewellery off. I find that my fingers swell on long runs, but in the rush to get ready today I'd kept them on.
At the same time that I was thinking about my poor swollen fingers, and how quickly my supply of water was running out, I looked up to see the Redditch Road stretching ahead of me. For those of you not familiar with Birmingham, the Redditch Road is very long, and - heading towards Birmingham - very uphill. There was no way around it, so I just kept going (encouraged by a car-full of strangers who hooted their horns, waved and cheered me on - I've no idea who they were, but they boosted me just when I needed the encouragement!)
I followed the Redditch Road all the way up into Cotteridge, then cut left along Middleton Hall Road and out onto the Bristol Road. I popped into the newsagents to stock up with Lucozade, which promptly fizzed all over my hands, so not only were they swollen, but they were also sticky. Gorgeous.
The blister plaster had worked loose by this stage, and I could feel a whole lot of rubbing going on, but I didn't dare stop to investigate for fear that my socks would stick to my hands and I'd have to make my way home barefoot.
I had a blissful mile of downhill before my calf muscles decided that enough was enough. I had the most excruciating cramp, and no amount of gentle walking or stretching against lampposts made any difference. Twelve miles into the run, and two miles from home, I phoned hubby and begged him to rescue me.
Notes to self for next time: pick a route that isn't all uphill, leave jewellery at home, wrap plaster at least four times around my foot to ensure no movement and only but sugar-free drinks en-route.
Blister repair kit...a bit like a puncture repair kit, but slightly more sterile, and an awful lot more expensive
The blister
If you have any good ideas about getting it to vanish, please let me know! All ideas gratefully accepted!
Thursday, 17 February 2011
Just chillin'
Long run day again today, although at half past seven this morning I could happily have stayed tucked up in bed til lunch time.
I forced myself to put my running gear on, and by the time my laces were tied I was feeling a little more optimistic - but not much. I kidded myself that I would just go out for an hour and see where that got me, knowing full well that I would end up doubling that, but every little psychological trick helps.
The air was quite damp when I set off, which made the first mile or two a bit uncomfortable as I struggled to keep my breathing even. I managed to get past that with my inhaler still in my pocket, and by about 4 miles in I was feeling much more comfortable.
In my quest to explore new routes, I circled Cofton park, headed through West Heath and under the railway bridge at Northfield, then reappeared on Middleton Hall Road and headed back along the A38 towards home.
My road was in sight at mile 8, and I was soooo tempted to dodge up there, but the thought of having to confess to you that I'd cut my run short made me veer left and complete a large loop before heading home. I completed just shy of ten miles, so can tick the training box for today.
Recently, I've been reading about ice baths, and how they help the body recover from long runs. I've got a busy weekend coming up and need to be on my feet all day on Saturday, so decided that I
would give the ice-bath theory a go. I half filled the bath with cold water, put two fleeces on top of my running t-shirt, zipped a hot water bottle between the fleeces, and climbed in.
There was probably a delay of about twenty seconds before I began to scream.
All I can say is that it's a good job I was in the house on my own, and that the neighbours were at work, or someone would have suspected the worst and phoned the police.
A minute in, and the pain was intense - the only way I can describe it is like having both legs crushed in a vice. Much shouting followed, which morphed into a mantra-like 'I can do this. I can do this'.
By about four minutes, numbness had set in, and I didn't feel cold at all.
The idea is that you stay there for ten minutes. I lasted eight. By that point my thigh muscles were twitching uncontrollably, and my legs had turned a not-altogether-flattering shade of purple.
As I got out, it felt as though a million electric shocks were shooting up and down my legs (which wasn't entirely unpleasant!) and as I sat on the bed wrapped snugly in towels I can honestly say that I felt quite revived!
Will it stop the achy muscles tomorrow? I don't know.
What I can say is that I'm normally ready for a good sleep after a long run, but right now I feel remarkably sprightly.
I forced myself to put my running gear on, and by the time my laces were tied I was feeling a little more optimistic - but not much. I kidded myself that I would just go out for an hour and see where that got me, knowing full well that I would end up doubling that, but every little psychological trick helps.
The air was quite damp when I set off, which made the first mile or two a bit uncomfortable as I struggled to keep my breathing even. I managed to get past that with my inhaler still in my pocket, and by about 4 miles in I was feeling much more comfortable.
In my quest to explore new routes, I circled Cofton park, headed through West Heath and under the railway bridge at Northfield, then reappeared on Middleton Hall Road and headed back along the A38 towards home.
My road was in sight at mile 8, and I was soooo tempted to dodge up there, but the thought of having to confess to you that I'd cut my run short made me veer left and complete a large loop before heading home. I completed just shy of ten miles, so can tick the training box for today.
Recently, I've been reading about ice baths, and how they help the body recover from long runs. I've got a busy weekend coming up and need to be on my feet all day on Saturday, so decided that I
would give the ice-bath theory a go. I half filled the bath with cold water, put two fleeces on top of my running t-shirt, zipped a hot water bottle between the fleeces, and climbed in.There was probably a delay of about twenty seconds before I began to scream.
All I can say is that it's a good job I was in the house on my own, and that the neighbours were at work, or someone would have suspected the worst and phoned the police.
A minute in, and the pain was intense - the only way I can describe it is like having both legs crushed in a vice. Much shouting followed, which morphed into a mantra-like 'I can do this. I can do this'.
By about four minutes, numbness had set in, and I didn't feel cold at all.
The idea is that you stay there for ten minutes. I lasted eight. By that point my thigh muscles were twitching uncontrollably, and my legs had turned a not-altogether-flattering shade of purple.
As I got out, it felt as though a million electric shocks were shooting up and down my legs (which wasn't entirely unpleasant!) and as I sat on the bed wrapped snugly in towels I can honestly say that I felt quite revived!
Will it stop the achy muscles tomorrow? I don't know.
What I can say is that I'm normally ready for a good sleep after a long run, but right now I feel remarkably sprightly.
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