Friday 20 July 2007

Thursday 19th July

Training Report:

The last session of the week. My legs were really looking forward to a day off, but they still had one more tough session before I put them to bed. 5 x 200 metres a 10 minute tempo run followed by another 5 x 200. I was a little apprehensive as to how my legs and body would handle it, but I needn't have. I felt fast and relaxed in the 200s and strong during the tempo. I was glad when the session was complete, though and I've never been so eager to dunk my legs into an ice bath before, I could have laid there for days!

Tuesday 17th July

Training Report:

My group ventured to the Sutton Arena to use the track and top class facilities they have. The track has a bit of a reputation for being a wind tunnel and today was no exception. Turning into the back straight almost brought you to a stand still, which meant pacing was a little difficult as there was almost a five second difference between each half lap. The session was 5 x 1k with 90 seconds jog recovery. I felt strong again like last week and was satisfied with an average of 3 minutes for each rep. I enjoyed working hard into the wind, so much I began to look forward to that windy back straight!

Saturday 14th July. Southern Men's League Portsmouth.

Result - 3rd

Race Report:
A race in which I was neither really disappointed nor pleased. Due to my first full week's hard training the week leading into the race my legs were a little tired and heavy, which resulted in a non spectacular performance. However it was a great week's work in the bank and the race was a solid enough performance, all things considered.

Tuesday 17 July 2007

Training in Cornwall: 11th-13th July

Wednesday 11th to Friday 13th July

Training Report:

Straight after my track session I drove down to Cornwall for a much needed change of scene. Morning runs seem so much easier running along empty beaches even if there wasn't the bright sunshine I had hoped for. My first full week's quality training for weeks safely in the bag, and now with batteries recharged I'm ready to continue the progression back home.

Tuesday 10th July

Training Report:

Evening track session. My group was a little thin on the ground due to a few niggles or maybe it was the thought of 15 200 metre reps! I'm not a big fan of high number rep sessions but it went well. It was my first track session for over a month I've completed and I felt strong and controlled throughout. Things are looking up!

Sunday 8th July

Training Report:

An 80 minute long run on Epsom Downs.
Its been a while since I felt able to manage over an hour and I didn't feel that great to start with, as I was dropped on most of the hills by my group. However after an hour I felt great and put in a hard last 2 miles dropping everyone as recompense for hurting me earlier in the run!

Wednesday 11 July 2007

Sunday 1st July. British 10k.

Result - 18th

Race Report:
A massive race run around central London. I managed to get an entry the last minute and even got into the elite start.
It was a great experience warming up along side Stefano Baldini the Olympic marathon champion, Lonah Kiplagat the world cross country champion and not forget the awe inspiring 'Cheeky Girls'! Unfortunately my lack of fitness told on a windy day in the city and I finished a slightly disappointed 18th. I was gutted not to be in better shape to take advantage of the great field
and the amazing atmosphere of the race, which was over some of the proposed course for the Olympic marathon. I hope to get myself on that course again!

Saturday 23rd June 1500m Southern mens League.

Result - 3rd

Race Report:
Ran in the 1500m which is a sprint for me as I wanted a bit of a break from track 5k's. Considering it was run in a downpour it was quite fast, especially for me at the moment. I finished 3rd in 4.13, not great but another step back in the right direction.

Tuesday 10 July 2007

Saturday 16th June. Banstead Woods 5k.

Result - 1st

Race Report:
Went mainly to support some friends who are helping put on this event the latest in the series of park run weekly time trial events. I managed to win, which was a bit of a surprise as I'd only done two runs since my illness. Time was a bit slow and wasn't helped my the wind rain and mud... But a win's a win!