11th October 2007

11th October 2007

Tan Shop 3 Mile

Conditions: Mild

Run Type: Easy

Notes: After another trip to the tanning shop I decided to do another run around Heanor. I opted for a short run but with a slight tempo. After a one mile warm up I attempted to get my average pace below nine minutes. As the run went on a managed to get it closer to nine minutes but I did not want to push too hard. New York is just around the corner and I do not want to throw it away so close to the big day.

Run time: 28:35

Pace: 9:32 / mile

Days to New York Marathon:



“Never give in as long as you have an earthly chance.”

4th October 2007

4th October 2007

Smalley-Heanor 4 Mile

Conditions: Warm, Sunny

Run Type: Easy

Notes: Having looked back at all my previous marathon photos and seeing my anemic legs stand out like milk bottles I decided to get a tan before I head out to New York. Call me vain but this is the biggest thing I have ever done and I want to look sort of ok on my photos that I show people for many years to come.
With a session planned I decided to run to the tanning shop. I was a steady run of two miles each way with nothing on either side of the fence to report. The run there was good and the only difference on the return leg was that I was a lot hotter than on the out leg.

Run time: 36:12

Pace: 9:03 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 31



“Running is one the best solutions to a clear mind.”

20th September 2007

20th September 2007

Mystery 7 mile

Conditions: ???

Run Type: ???

Notes: This run to this day I do not remember. With me working so hard now in my new business I do not get the time like I did in my last position to fill out my running log every single day. I cannot for the life of me remember this run however, so I have nicknamed it the ‘Mystery Seven Mile’.

Run time: 1:04:20

Pace: 9:12 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 45



“Get going. Get up and walk if you have to, but finish the damned race.”

Nottingham Half Marathon

Nottingham Half Marathon

16th September 2007

Race #6 – Report

This was my first race since may and the Edinburgh Marathon. I was looking forward to this race as it was my local half marathon and attracted a good field. I had heard that the course was very hilly so I was not going to go gung ho for the PR and risk injury for New York.
I awoke around 7.30am and after a light breakfast and a gentle jog around the block I set off for Nottingham. It felt a little strange today as this was the first race I had gone to alone. What this did however was give me time to clear my mind and focus on the race.
On arrival in Nottingham I soon realized the scale of this race. Of course a number of the runners were entering the full marathon. It was a beautiful day so I picked a spot on the grass and started preparing for the race. As I went through my bag I realized that I had left my Garmin at home. “Fantastic start” I thought to myself. All that money spent and I leave it at home. I was planning on using the watch to pace myself throughout the race and if close towards the end, I could push for that PR.
After handing my bag in I made my way to the start line and after a ten minute wait or so we were off. I only vaguely remember the first mile or so. The first thing I remember clearly was early in the race we had to climb up towards Nottingham Castle, on cobbles!! This was a challenge so early on as you want to get to the summit as quickly as possible, but not too quickly that you use vital energy stores needed at the end of the race. Once at the top I was please by the long descent down the other side.
The next phase of this race again was a bit of a blur. The next thing that I remember was again another challenging hill. This time the course leads up past the Queens Medical Centre and into the grounds of Nottingham University. The grounds are very hilly and the climb was long, however the support at this point was fantastic.
After another welcome descent down the other side the course led out towards Wollaton Park. It was at this point that the heat and the two challenging hills started to take their toll. It was around the half way point and with no pacer I had little clue of my time or current pace.
I soon pushed through the oncoming fatigue, just in time for another challenging hill at Wollaton Park. The support here was again fantastic and this hill although probably the longest was the most enjoyable due to the support and how close the crowd was. It was after this hill that I realized why they called this a challenging course.
After the course led out of Wollaton Park I took on fuel and water at the next station and really got into my stride. I was pretty confident that I would not get the PR, however if I could at least get close I would know that it is a huge improvement on my last half marathon time as that was an almost flat course, apart from the first two miles.
At around mile ten the course comes back on itself and it was here that I really started to suffer. I had clearly pushed the hills to hard and was paying for it now. The final two miles were tough but I pushed through them. Coming towards the finish line the crowds grew, and so did my fatigue. I saw the full marathoners split off for the seconds thirteen miles and remember clearly thinking that I was happy not to be one of them.
The crowd support was amazing for the final few hundred meters, and as soon as I saw the finish line I kicked it (be it a little early) and came across the finish line a little over two minutes outside my PR. I was happy that I was close but unhappy knowing that if I had my Garmin I would have easily got that PR. However I was not subdued as I had done it. Two down, one to go. I collected my medal and energy bag and made my way to my car.
The next time I line up at the start of a race it will be in New York City. Come on!!

Conditions: Warm, Sunny

Time: 1:52:06



"Divide your race into thirds. Run the first part with your head, the middle part with your personality, and the last part with your heart."

14th September 2007

14th September 2007

Adale Road 2 Mile

Conditions: Hot, Sunny

Run Type: Easy

Notes: After a long week working with my new business I opted for a short two mile run to Adale Road and back as my final run before the Nottingham Half Marathon. I have to be honest that my commitment to my future has led to my running suffering but I will not let it affect my mental state either for Sunday or for the 4th November.

Run time: 17:37

Pace: 8:49 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 51



“There's nothing noble in being superior to some other man. The true nobility is being superior to your previous self.”

7th September 2007

7th September 2007

Syntax 8 Mile Finale

Conditions: Hot, Sunny

Run Type: Easy

Notes: Having agreed a leaving package with Syntax I ceased working for them on 4th September and have since been concentrating on building my business with my Dad. I did however have a few things left at work so I decided to run into work and collect them, and then get a taxi home (or even a sneaky lift).
As I left my house it soon became apparent how hot it was. I struggled with the early part of this run but as soon as I passed Morley I was running well. I remember really enjoying the run down towards Broomfield as so many times on ‘Syntax 10k’s’ I have struggled up that same hill.
After the short climb up towards Oakwood I became very hot but I pushed through it and soon enough I was passing the Odeon Cinema en route to Syntax.
I arrived at Syntax at mile seven and managed to get a lift back to Smalley Cross where I ran the final mile up into Smalley.
This run was the end of an era for Syntax based runs, but that chapter of my life has now come to a close, it is time to start a new chapter.

Run time: 1:14:34

Pace: 9:20 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 58



“All it takes is all you got.”

2nd September 2007

2nd September 2007

Spondon 17 Mile

Conditions: Mild, Raining

Run Type: Long

Notes: Having started working weekends for my Dad’s new business my Sunday long run came late this week. I decided to run and brand new route and opted for Spondon as the target destination. After the usual mile warm up I set off for the semi planned run of fifteen miles plus.
I do not remember too much from the first part of this run which shows that this was as it should have been, easy. As I led away from Smalley and down towards Spondon I do remember feeling pretty good. At mile five and was in Spondon and opted to stop for a drink as I was pretty sure there were no more shops on the route I had in mind.
After the short refueling stop I was off again out of Spondon and up towards Deale Abbey which was a good climb. Once at the top I realized where I was and the route home was extremely hilly so I decided to turn around and head back the other way.
I turned around at mile nine but had a slightly different route home planned so I knew that today’s run would be at least seventeen miles, as the route home was slightly quicker but through some beautiful grounds and past ‘The Lake’. It was at this point that I felt the first bit of fatigue but the scenery prevented me from feeling tired or slowing off.
Once out of the grounds I was back on the same route I had came and the toughest part was the climb back up towards Morley which was steady but long.
The best part about this run was how I felt at the end. Normally I drag myself those last few miles but this time I enjoyed them and when I reached Smalley I was tired but felt fantastic.
In closing absolutely loved this run and will be doing it again for sure, sometime in the future

Run time: 2:42:03

Pace: 9:32 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 63



“Dreams can often become challenging, but challenges are what we live for.”

30th August 2007

30th August 2007

Kilburn 5 Mile (R)

Conditions: Warm, Overcast

Run Type: Recovery

Notes: Having completed eight miles at marathon pace yesterday I opted for a five mile recovery run today. I was also having a massage afterwards so I did not want to push myself too much.
I decided to do the Kilburn five mile, but in reverse. I set out towards Kilburn and did some light stretching at the usual one mile marker. As always though, what I felt was a really slow pace was actually my marathon pace. It did however feel really comfortable so I kept at the same pace throughout the entire run.
I don’t really remember many emotions or significant moments from this run, which means that it was simply a solid run with no major highs or lows. There was one long hill on this course which I slowed off slightly for but I made up the time once at the top of the hill. I pushed it again once at the top of the hill and I feel that my fitness is now at a stage where I do not suffer at the top of a challenging hill. I now have the ability to push harder once at the top of the hill.
In closing the one major thing I learned today was that If you slow off a little for the hill and drop under your goal time pace, you will have enough energy to push on once at the top of the hill. When I used to push it up the hill I would be that tired at the top that my ultimate time would suffer heavily. So although a short run, it was valuable none the less!

Run time: 45:08

Pace: 9:02 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 65



“Don't bother just to be better than your contemporaries or predecessors. Try to be better than yourself.”

29th August 2007

29th August 2007

Coxbench 8 Mile

Conditions: Mild, Overcast

Run Type: Easy

Notes: In terms of quality, effort and the sheer level of fun that I had, this was without doubt the best run I had done to date. This was my first semi long run that incorporated hills since I took a break from road running several weeks ago. The first time I did this route I was running well until I passed Horsley Golf Club where I blew up and felt awful for the remainder of the run. I did set a PR for the distance but at the end of it I felt dreadful and could not have run another mile, never mind another eighteen. After today’s run however I felt amazing and I have never felt so happy at the end of a training run.
Back to the start, and after my one mile warm up and the usual light stretching I was off towards Coxbench on a mild summers evening. It was perfect running conditions and I simply took it steady as I did not want a repeat of my last outing on this route at mile six.
The second and third miles take a steady descent down towards the Shit Farm and Coxbench and as always I did not get carried away, but simply enjoyed the run and concentrated on my breathing and form.
Once I got onto the main road into Coxbench I had really settled into my run and thus far had not had a single bad moment. I remember a Beastie Boys track about New York and I had visions of running in the marathon, and although I did not need it, this really lifted me.
Once I passed Coxbench and was on my way towards Horsley Golf Course (where I had a nightmare on my previous run) I really took my time and did not get excited or worried about what was coming up. The course in the end came and went and I passed the point where I blew up before and remember thinking that I had nothing to worry about.
At mile six I was approaching the hill up into Smalley that has taken so much out of me in the past. As I approached the hill I should have slowed right off for it, but I simply kept going into the hill, and up it, and over it and then some. It was the easiest climb of that hill I have ever done and it shows how far I have some through my hard work (despite injuries and set backs). Once at the top of the hill I even managed to drop in a sub eight thirty final mile. I crossed the finish line and remember thinking that this was the kind of run I need on race day. It was almost effortless but at the same time it was the Marathon pace I will be looking for come November 4th.
In closing, after today’s run I am very optimistic about my chances in New York. There is still along way to go but already I am getting on my way to surpassing the volume of miles I put in, in preparation for Edinburgh!

Run time: 1:13:09

Pace: 9:09 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 66



“Do a little more each day than you think you possibly can.”

23rd August 2007

23rd August 2007

Smalley-Heanor 4 Mile

Conditions: Mild, Sunny

Run Type: Easy / Tempo

Notes: Today is the one year anniversary of my first ever logged run. With the pain and soreness that I have been getting in my knees getting steadily worse I thought that after today’s run I would be a good time to retire my current running shoes, and replace them with two more pairs of Brooks.
Since my injury I have been concentrating on pure mileage, however today I decided to opt for a semi-tempo run to see how my leg would hold up. I chose the four mile circuit from my home to Heanor and back again. This is a relatively flat run with only one challenging run on the return leg.
I set out along Allsops towards Heanor and it felt kind of strange as all of my runs of late have been on the flats of Shipley Park. With my leg feeling pretty healthy after all of these flat runs I knew that I must start running some hills again to ensure that I am ready for the hills in New York. Even with my injury however I have ran 32% more miles compared to the same point during my Edinburgh training. This is still not as many as I would have liked but I still have ten weeks until New York and I have no ‘boys’ holiday in Cancun to recover from.
After the first mile I noticed that the mile I had ran was sub nine minutes so as I ran down into Heanor I decided to turn this into a semi-tempo run and keep all my miles under nine minutes, as this is the pace I need to run in New York to ensure I get that sub four hour finish. The second mile was a good one as it involved a steady climb up towards town centre and I never dropped out of the sub nine pace.
The toughest part of this run was coming back up past HGS, and once at the top I was a little tired but I pushed through and made up the lost time on the final mile where I really pushed it and ran a sub eight thirty mile.
In closing I really enjoyed my first tempo style run in a long time and my leg feels fine the day after. I will not do anything stupid but I will be sure to add some more marathon pace runs into my training over the coming weeks.

Run time: 34:50

Pace: 8:43 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 72



“Even if you fall flat on your face, at least you are moving forward.”

19th August 2007

19th August 2007

Erewash Canal 12 Mile

Conditions: Overcast, Raining

Run Type: Long

Notes: I had planned this run to be a 20 miler consisting of an out and back route, however with my injury still at the back of my mind I did not want to put too much stress on my hamstring, so I decided to do the run along the Erewash Canal, which is perfectly flat. Also the fact that I get bored with running the same surroundings meant that this would be a good test of my mental endurance, as well as physical.
I set out from Shipley Park and made my way to the Venture and then joined Ilkeston Road for the short uphill climb before the turn off down Long Lane towards MFN and the Erewash Canal. It was here at mile three that nature called and during this time I forgot to stop my watch, hence my first ever twelve minute mile. The correct time for the mile would have been around ten minutes.
Having got myself back on track I was soon heading towards MFN where I saw a Biker meet greeted by a few funny looks? I swear that one lady looked at me like she had never seen a runner before.
With the road running out the way I prepared myself for the six mile run along the Canal before the return leg of six miles followed by the climb back up to Shipley Park. This was all going to plan until around mile six when the canal suddenly comes to an end. This was due to works being carried out on the canal bed and a bridge in Ilkeston. I stood there for a while and contemplated climbing the fence, but decided not to do anything stupid or risk any kind of injury two months before I fly to New York. I instead opted to turn around and head back the other way. To be fair I had no choice.
The next mile was spent deciding where to go once I reached MFN. It was either turn off and head back to my car at the visitors centre, making this a 8 miler or carry on along the Canal and come out at Langley mill, and making my way back through Marlpool, making it a 12 miler. Either way I had a grueling hill to tackle so it was at this point that I chose not to make this a twenty miler. It was also here that I opted for option two and the climb back up Long Lane would have put far too much stress on my hamstring.
Just after I passed MFN the heavens opened and this was a warm (or should I say cold) welcome. The rain continued until I left the canal and joined the main road through Langley Mill and my climb up towards Marlpool. At mile ten I made a brief stop at my friends and convinced him to join me on the final two miles on his bike.
The final two miles were a breeze and flew by as I spent the entire time talking to Ste. I opened my legs up for the final mile and I crossed the finish line a little tired but very happy.
In closing I was happy with this run given the circumstances but I did something wrong as today (the day after) I can fell my damn hamstring again. It is nothing major but I know it is there. Today I will rest and I will asses my leg again tomorrow.

Run time: 2:01:39

Pace: 10:09 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 76



“What am I doing, nobody cares. It's just personal satisfaction.”

14th August 2007

14th August 2007

Shipley Park-Bellinis 8 Mile

Conditions: Wet, Overcast

Run Type: Easy

Notes: This was originally was going to be an easy midweek run / recovery run from my long run on Sunday. Although my hamstring now feels ok I do not want to temp fate by doing too much too soon so I stuck to Shipley Park again and planned around a five mile run.
When I reached the two mile point however near the Venture I felt really good and I knew that five miles was not going to be enough, so I headed out onto the main road towards Ilkeston and Bellinis garage. When I reached the garage and Ilkeston Hospital I turned off down towards the now usual route of the Nutbrook Trail. It was here that I entered the mindset of being in another race. I kept my pace steady but I remembered how much satisfaction I got out of this mental state on Sunday, so I did it all over again.
The climb up to Nutbrook did seem a little harder than in previous runs but this was a recovery run after all so I did not let this get me down. The main thing is I was running well and really enjoying it.
It was on the decline back down towards Mapperley Resivour that I really found my stride on this run and according to my watch I hit 5:13 pace, but for how long I am unsure. I entered Mapperley woods and it was here that I hit the first low point of a run for at least two weeks. The best thing was that the only reason for this low was that the path had become somewhat overgrown with all the sun and rain, and I was getting constantly stung by nettles, but hey if this is going to be my only low point in my runs then I can accept that.
Having left Mapperley woods onto Bell Lane it was just over two miles to the end of the course and this flew by and soon enough I was back at my car and mile eight.
In closing I cannot fault my running at the moment and I believe that I am getting back up to my peak physical condition and the best thing is, I am loving every minute of it. A month ago I was very worried about my injuries and my chances of a sub four time in New York. Now I know that if I carry on training like I am and add a little speed work in once I am sure that I am fully fit, that this goal is now very much alive!

Run time: 1:16:11

Pace: 9:32 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 81



“It is a rough road that leads to the heights of greatness.”

12th August 2007

12th August 2007

Shipley Park-Ilkeston 14 Mile

Conditions: Hot, Sunny

Run Type: Long

Notes: Having slept in I did my first long run in over three weeks at 3:30pm when the sun was still out in full force. As I have said in previous posts however, if I train in the heat then my races in the cool morning air will seem far easier.
I set out along Allsops and really took my time as I knew it was going to be a long afternoon with the heat. The first mile or so was easy as I was running through Shipley Park in the shade. This however changed as I left the Venture grounds and headed out towards Ilkeston, where there was no protection from the sun. It was very warm and I run in a thin jacket so I sweat more and come race day I will feel far cooler. As I have mentioned before running is as much a mental sport as a physical one.
I enjoyed the run down into Ilkeston, however, although I knew that due to me running down into Ilkeston that I would have the subsequent run back up to Shipley Park, I never expected the hill I chose to run back up to bee so steep. I had planned the course online and everything online is 2D. I did not want to risk further in jury so I simply took my time and soon enough I was up the hill and feeling fantastic, be it a little warm!!
Once back on the main road I made a quick drink stop before turning off down towards Shipley Park at mile seven. I was looking forward to this part of the run as I did it for the first time last Sunday and got a huge amount of enjoyment out of the course. It is a steady climb up into Nutbrook, however the country paths are so quiet and peaceful and it makes the run so different to my usual main road running.
Once at Nutbrook the course leads down towards Mapperley Reservoir and it was here that I realised that I was running my miles a little too quick, as my legs started to tire. It was at this point that I invented an ultra (50 miles) race in my head which of course I was leading. For the next three miles I put myself in that racing mindset and I got mentally lost and just kept running, I just kept running in that race and imagined all the people watching me and the commentators saying amazing things about me. I have found this technique very successful in the past and it worked again.
It wasn’t until mile eleven that I came back round to reality and realised how sore my legs were getting, especially my knees which I know is down to my runners. As soon as payday comes I will be purchasing a couple of new pairs. As I ran down past Bell Lane I decided to start heading home as it was still over two miles and one grueling hill before I got there.
I really took my time going up towards Smalley and once at the top although my breathing was ok my legs were very tired and how easily I could have stopped. Instead I did the opposite and switched on my mental power once more, and I upped my pace and dropped in my fastest mile of the day. I was pleased with this and it proves that even when tired you can do far more than you ever imagined. All it takes is a little ‘Positive Mental Attitude’.

Run time: 2:10:54

Pace: 9:21 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 83



“Nothing of any importance can be taught. It can only be learned with blood and sweat.”

9th August 2007

9th August 2007

Heanor Hospital 8 Mile

Conditions: Warm, Sunny

Run Type: Easy

Notes: I have named this run after Heanor hospital due to the fact that two miles into today’s run I stopped of at the hospital to see my Grandad. He was happy to see me and he and my Grandma had lots of running questions for me and it was nice that they were showing an interest.
Just before I reached the hospital the battery on my TP ran out so for the final 6 miles of this run I timed using my Ipod. This meant of course that I had no pacing so I tried to keep my pace as low as possible and as near to the pace I have been running as possible.
As I ran down through Hardy Barn towards the Venture I was feeling good and running at what I thought was a steady pace. I seemed to breeze through mile after mile and before I knew it I was home. The only clear thing I remember from this run was seeing a huge group of young female runners at Ozzie’s pond. Apart from that nothing is clear and it is almost like I was running in a trance. When I looked at my Ipod at the end of the course, I saw that I had ran all my miles at sub nine pace, which was the opposite of what I have been trying to do since my injury. What it does mean however is that I can run at the pace I want to in New York, comfortably.
In closing a solid run that I do not remember!!

Run time: 1:09:40

Pace: 8:43 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 86



“Running is real and relatively simple - but it ain't easy.”

7th August 2007

7th August 2007

Shipley Park-MFN 9 Mile

Conditions: Sunny, Warm

Run Type: Easy

Notes: With my new found love for slow running through the flats of Shipley Park (SP), I opted for more of the same for today’s run. After Sundays eight mile my leg felt fine and I had no soreness or acute pain, however I was not going to get excited and start changing things again. I have now decided to commit all of August to pure endurance running and only if at the end of this period I feel like I am injury free will I start adding some half marathon pace miles into my training.
It was a warm summers evening so I was in very high spirits when I set out along the trim track, towards Ozzie’s for my warm up. Having completed the first mile and subsequent light stretching I was off again towards the Venture and then Ilkeston.
Having past through the Venture and spent a short time on the main road to Ilkeston, I turned off down Long Lane towards MFN and it was here that I was probably the happiest I have ever been during a training run. The sun was out but it wasn’t too warm, I was running with ease and I had the thought of Anastasiya in my head (a Russian girl I have met), and to top it all off ‘Eye of the Tiger’ came on my Ipod and I just opened my arms out like I was flying and smiled as I ran down the long decline towards MFN and the canal.
It wasn’t until mile four that I felt my first minor low point of this run but it soon passed and I really enjoyed the peaceful run along the canal towards Langley Mill. It was however in Langley Mill where I felt a pain in my knees that reminded me of the pain I got after the Worksop Half Marathon. Now this maybe down to my running shoes coming to the end of their life, so I will keep a close eye on both my knees and runners!
The run through Langley Mill was enjoyable in its own way as I like being in Public when running, and with my semi famous status from all the coverage of my marathons in the paper it made this part of the run enjoyable in case anybody saw me. I am however here for me not for people to see me, it is just nice when people come up to me and say they saw me out running, and can see how hard I train.
As the course leads off the main road and up towards HLC I was greeted by the first and only major hill of this course and I approached it with the mentality that I would run it very slow, but I would not stop! Once at the top my hear rate had reached 90% but it soon settled down once I was running along Heanor Road.
As I approached Marlpool and the final two miles the pain in my knees was getting worse and they felt really tight. I wanted to stop to stretch but I had come 7 miles without stopping so I sure as hell was not going to stop now. I pushed through and focused on my form for the final two miles. I upped the pace slightly for the final half mile but did not try anything suicidal. I remember at the end of the run that my legs felt a little tired and I did not know why. It turns out that my pacing was slightly too quick, however on the whole this was a very successful run which I thoroughly enjoyed. I just hope that the pain in my knees leads to nothing. Tomorrow I have a short recovery run planned, which I will use to asses both my hamstring and my knees. Either way, next payday I will be investing in some new shoes!

Run time: 1:25:25

Pace: 9:30 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 88



"A lot of people run a race to see who's the fastest. I run to see who has the most guts."

5th August 2007

5th August 2007

Shipley Park-Nutbrook 8 Mile

Conditions: Hot, Sunny

Run Type: Long

Notes: This was my first long run in over three weeks having suffered yet again with my long term hamstring injury. Even with my new slower pacing I am still getting some acute pain the following day of a run. For this reason was not going to push myself too hard on my long run, and jeopardise next week’s workouts.
I opted for a semi planned run today, so after the now normal routine of one mile warm up and then some light stretching I set towards the Venture and out along Heanor Road towards Ilkeston before cutting back into Shipley Park at Ilkeston Hospital. After that it was all guess work. I had looked at the various trails using Google Earth and from what I could see there were so many ways to get back home that I would simply run and see where I end up, which can be quite exciting, as well as giving me chance to fill in the gaps of Shipley Park.
I was taking extra notice to my pacing and heart rate on today’s run as the temperature was very high and by 10am it was already one of the hottest days of the year. As I ran through the woods towards the Venture the trees created a shade which was a very welcome break form the heat.
At mile two as the course led out onto the main road the sun was out in full flow and it was very hard running conditions, but I simply slowed right down as I approached any kind of hill and I never suffered once, or thought for a second that I should not be doing this in these conditions.
The third mile came and went and then I was off the main road and back onto the trail and I was happy about this as I have really enjoyed my past few runs in these new surroundings. As I entered the trail I saw a runner from Heanor Running Club and he informed me that the trail we were on led to Nutbrook, so I simply stayed behind him and followed him all the way into the village.
As I passed through Nutbrook I continued to follow the runner down slack lane which lead to Mapperley Reservoir, and it was here that I started to piece together where I had ran to and where I was heading. I looped around Mapperley Reservoir and then took a very steady climb up towards Shipley Hall before a long decline back down towards Ozzie’s pond. I actually enjoyed the hill considering I am resting an injury and the heat.
On the way back down the hill I decided that I would end this run at eight miles as the sun was getting very hot and I did not want to be sore and unable to run on the Monday.
In closing this was yet another very successful and thoroughly enjoyable run. I am running slower but far more effective than I ever have before. I am finally running my easy runs as they should be run.......with ease!!

Run time: 1:24:25

Pace: 10:34 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 90



“The true runner is a very fortunate person. He has found something in him that is just perfect.”

1st August 2007

1st August 2007

Shipley Park 6.5 Mile

Conditions: Mild, Overcast

Run Type: Injury Recovery

Notes: Having had a fantastic run through Shipley Park two days ago I decided to go for more of the same today. Shipley Park is the only place I can go with minimal hills, whilst I’m coming back from injury.
I set out from the visitors centre car park and headed along the track towards Bell Lane. I kept my pace as ion the last run well above the nine minute mile pace so not to aggravate my hamstring. I did not have an exact course that I was following but I knew that I would be heading towards the American Adventure.
As I approached the ‘Venture’ I was greeted by my first hill, but it was nothing like what I normally have to tackle but I still slowed right down for it as I need to keep the force on my hamstring to a minimum.
Once at the top of the hill the course sweeps back down and round the side of the Venture where can see the entire park, which is now simply a ghost town of its former self. As I left the venture, the course leads back past the cricket club towards Ozzie’s and eventually past Lockton before arriving back at the car park. I took it steady along this straight but when I got back to the start I was not ready to finish so I carried on past the car park and back down towards Bell Lane. The extra run I did at the end accumulated to one and a half miles, which brought this run up to six and a half miles and yet again, I loved every minute of it.

Run time: 1:03:28

Pace: 9:46 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 93



“Perseverance: is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.”

30th July 2007

Shipley Park-Cricket Club 5 Mile

Conditions: Mild, Sunny

Run Type: Injury Recovery

Notes: Having had a nightmare two weeks with two identical injuries on opposite legs I was beginning to think that my dream was over. I had lost almost two weeks of running and had been advised that I have to cut out all speed work. I was seeing my sub four hour marathon dream in New York rapidly fading. That was until I spent a long time on my running forum getting advice from the seasoned marathoners. They advised me to cut out all speed work and concentrate on building my endurance. Basically many of the runners analyzed my times and informed me that my speed is there to easily run sub four, however what is lacking is the endurance to sustain it for that period of time.

“The bottom line is, I must concentrate on running high mileage at a very slow pace”

What this will do is build up my endurance, whilst giving my hamstrings time to heal. Having heard this from so many of the runners I took the advice, erased all the stress and pressure I was putting on myself and went out armed with my Training Partner (TP) and ran as effortless as I could.
I have also been advised that I should cut out the hills, which in my hometown is not easy, so I drove to HGIE to warm up before a steady run through Shipley Park. Being armed with my TP enabled me to run at the pace I needed to, which I have always struggled with. The moment I ran under a nine minute pace, my TP would shout at me. I also kept my heart rate down, however I am still unsure if I have my heart rate set up correctly as even during the really easy parts of the run my heart rate was averaging 82%. I believe for this kind of run my heart rate should average 75%. I will look into this.
This was the first time I set out to run without a planned route so it was exciting to a certain extent. All I did was stay on flat wherever possible and kept my pace above a nine minute average. As I was running I started thinking how I had ever coped without a TP and how much I was enjoying this run.
The miles passed by and I no longer even have to mark these as my TP marks every mile for me and lets me concentrate on my running and form. I remember even thinking that I may run this entire route again but being on the right side of an injury, I was not going to push things, so I ended the run at the five mile point and was very pleased with the entire run. I had done exactly what I had set out to, and I will be doing the same for the foreseeable future.
The best thing is……. my legs feel fine!!

Running Shoes: Brooks Vapour 7 (77 Miles remaining)

Run time: 46:16

Pace: 9:15 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 95



“I'm trying to do the best I can. I'm not concerned about tomorrow, but with what goes on today.”

23rd July 2007

23rd July 2007

Woodhouse 3 Mile Flat

Conditions: Mild, Sunny

Run Type: Recovery

Notes: Having tried to prove a point in my last training run, and failed miserably, I woke the next day and realised (to my horror) that I had aggravated my right hamstring again. It feels like a different muscle, but it is the same group and so it is basically the same injury. As advised I took a week off from training.
Now 99% of routes that I run incorporate at least one major hill, however, with my recent injury, I need to run a hill free course, so I have designed a six mile course that is as flat as I can possibly create, without driving in my car to another location. Today is also the first chance I have to use my new training partner, my Garmin Forerunner 305. This is basically a Playstation for your wrist that uses a GPS system to record your runs via a satellite, measure your heart rate, pacing, lap times and most importantly a virtual training partner that tells you how far behind a previous run or set time you are. It is basically my own personal coach, and I know without a doubt that this will help with my preparation for New York.
Having my new toy with me meant that I got excited and from the very start of this run I went out too fast. I obviously stopped for the one mile stretches but as soon as I set off again I was running too fast. It felt easy but I soon paid the price.
At mile two I felt a sharp pain in my diaphragm and this slowed me right back down. Basically I was pushing too hard and worrying too much about my time. I should have treated this like any other medium run. Yet again however I have learnt a lesson and will not be doing this again.
I pushed through the final mile but was happy when this run was over. I approached it poorly, I ran it poorly and I was happy to be back home. Tomorrows run will be different, time will not matter, quality will!!

Run time: 25:30

Pace: 8:30 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 103



“Life is about feeling someone pushing from behind and realizing that it's you.”

16th July 2007

Trim Track 2 Mile

Date: 16th July 2007

Conditions:

Run Type: Tempo

Notes: Whilst in the pub on Sunday, the Football team came in and, was telling me about some running they had been doing in training. They had been doing the Shipley Park ‘Trim Track Mile’, which is of course a one mile circuit of trail running, which incorporates inclines and declines. The best time was set by one of the healthier lads on team, Matt Britt who ran the mile in 5.33. This of course is a very respectable time, but this got me going, so I decided I must beat it.
Of course I had nothing to time myself against or nobody to race until my new ‘Garmin Virtual Training Partner’ arrives, so I used the next best thing. I roped a couple of mates into doing the course with me, but on bikes. We set a challenge for them to complete two laps to my one.
After a one lap warm up to scope out the course we set off up the first hill and this was where I failed my attempt. Within fifteen seconds I had failed my attempt. I had nobody to pace myself against so I went out ‘Gung Ho’, and flew up the first hill, however at the top I was shattered. It soon became clear that the fitness I have is far different to the fitness required for this type of run.
Once at the top of the hill I felt my arms go very tingly and I felt faint so I had to ease off. I coasted down the hill I should have sprinted down and once at the bottom I really eased off as I realised that tactically, I had got this run wrong from the word go. However I am not worried as once my new training partner comes I know that my pacing will be altered to the task ahead and soon enough I will go to the training session and show them how its done.
For now however it is back to my regular long distance training, because at the end of the day I am not training for a 1500m race, I am training for a Marathon.

Run time: 16:01 *CR

Pace: 8:01 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 110



“No one can say, 'You must not run faster than this, or jump higher than that.' The human spirit is indomitable.”

12th July 2007

Coxbench 8 Mile

Date: 12th July 2007

Conditions: Sunny, Humid

Run Type: Easy

Notes: When I first started running, eight miles would be a long run that really took it out of me. Now it is simply a mid week easy run. I try and run as many different routes as possible, so for today’s run I designed a new course.
After the usual Mile/Warm up (MWU) I set out towards Coxbench on an extremely warm, summers evening. The heat I knew would come into play if I pushed too hard too soon, so I spent the second mile easing into this run, but from the very start I was running well and really enjoying this course. To be fair the second mile is a long gradual decline down to the ‘Shit farm’.
Having passed the shit farm, the course leads onto Derby Road towards the A38 and this is where I really started to get into my stride. I was running with ease, no aches, no pains, no breathing problems and I was mentally blocking out the heat of the sun. I again imagined that I was out in front of a race. I have found that this mental block of the actual training run really helps. I may never actually win a race, so this is a nice alternative!
As I turned off Derby Road onto Coxbench Road at mile four I remember feeling great so I upped the pace a little, but this was somewhat of a mistake. I was running well until around mile five, when the heat broke through my mental block and started to slow me down. I believe that a drink at this point would have prevented this but I did not have that luxury.
I pushed through the heat but as I approached Morley and mile six I felt the aching in my neck that I suffered with in Edinburgh, which quickly got worse, a lot worse. I decided at the mile six marker to make a quick pit stop and stretch it out. The stretching worked and I was soon back on course and ready to tackle Smalley Hill. I knew my time was fairly quick so I pushed myself up the hill to try and get that sub one hour seven miles that has eluded me by around a minute in previous runs. I reached the seven mile marker in 59:13 and was very pleased with my efforts.
I knew I was on for an eight mile PB so I again pushed the final mile for a sub seventy minute and crossed the finish line shaving almost three minutes off my PB.
In all a good run with one low point, but what I learnt from looking at my splits is that if I ran a quick mile of 7:30-8:15, then the next mile was always slower. My next goal is to even these splits out. This was however still only an easy run, but I decided to put a little effort in and it paid off. I am improving, as the results clearly show.

Run time: 1:07:10 *PB

Pace: 8:24 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 114



“Success is not the result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire.”

10th July 2007

Heanor Half Marathon

Training Run

Date: 10th July 2007

Conditions: Sunny, Warm

Run Type: Long

Notes: Having had the day off work I decided to utilize my time off by going finally doing the imaginary ‘Heanor Half Marathon’. I had set out the course for my Sunday long run, however due to tiredness and fatigue I thought for the long term it would be best to miss it.
So I prepared like any other race, however I would not be pushing myself like in a race, this was simply a long, easy run, but I prepared mentally like any other race.
I set out late morning and the sun was already beaming down. It was a beautiful day, and although not ideal running conditions, I was happy to see the sun after the three weeks of constant rain and floods. I set out along Allsops, and did the now formality stretching, before setting off again towards Heanor into mile two. The course at this point takes many twists and turns thought the streets of Heanor, and this is what I really enjoy, changing roads and scenery. I felt good (however very warm) throughout the first four miles of this course.
It was not until the fifth mile, whilst running up Aldreds Lane that I hit my first low point of this run. The course takes a steady incline up towards Marlpool and with the heat and the slight aching in my lower legs, I had to use my mental strength to get through that mile.
The mile five marker comes at the top of the climb up Lcaeyfields Road, which was not half as challenging as I had imagined it to be. Right on the marker however is a shop and with the heat I decided it would be best to stop and refuel, so to not risk dehydration. Having drank, stretched and said hello to two friends, I set out again, back up towards Heanor.
As I approached Hands Road and the second major hill of this course and with the right mental approach I sailed up the hill and was soon on the main road at mile six. As I ran along Ilkeston Road I saw another friend and started to wonder if anybody that I knew even worked?
Once I passed yet another friend, the course takes a decline down through Marlpool, towards Ozbourne’s Pond and the eventual climb up Bell Lane to Shipley Park Visitors Centre. It was at this point in the race that the heat and fatigue really started to kick and I started to struggle a little with the run. I simply took my time and did not let it beat me, mentally.
Having passed through this hard part of the course, yet another challenge came in the form of Thorpes Road, which is a very challenging hill. This was tough, so I used the next mile through Heanor town centre as a recovery mile before final three miles.
As I led out passed Loggins garage towards the new housing estate next to Heanor Gate School, the lactic acid build up was starting to set in and my legs were becoming very tired. Although I was running slow, it was clearly still above my LT. I had to stop several times during this loop of the estate and it was hard to get any momentum back (hence the eleven minute mile). I struggled through and pushed on up ‘Heanor Hill’ and was thankful once I was at the top. “Final push” I kept telling myself as I struggled through the final mile. I crawled across the finish line, the first time I remember that I did not have any kick left in me.
In closing, the first part of this run was really enjoyable, however once the heat set in I found it really hard. I believe the lack of fluid played a part, but hey this was my first really long run since Edinburgh and I was only eleven minutes slower than my Half Marathon PB. I am not worried, as this is a training run and you learn something every time you complete a run.

Run time: 2:00:40 *CR

Pace: 9:13 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 118



“There is no time to think about how much I hurt; there is only time to run.”

6th July 2007

Oakwood-Morley 10 Mile

Date: 6th July 2007

Conditions: Wet / Cloudy

Run Type: Easy

Notes: How the times have changed. From the age of 18-24 my entire Friday mindset would be on going out and getting hammered. Today however was all about the 10 mile run I would be doing after work. Lately I have been getting in the odd four mile run on a Friday but with New York just around the corner, my old Friday antics are no more.
I set out from home and made the one mile warm up through Smalley, towards Derby, before stopping at the one mile marker (as discussed in previous logs) to stretch.
Having completed a thorough warm up I set off towards Derby on a route I have only run in the opposite direction on my Syntax 10k’s. The course this was far easier. Once the hill up towards Morley Hayes at mile two is out the way the course is a steady decline down towards Broomfield College. This part of the run at mile three was a blessing and I really enjoyed my time on this route, as I recalled the tough climbs up it in previous runs.
Once passed Broomfield the course leads up towards Oakwood at mile four, however I turned off just before Oakwood into unchartered territory, in terms of running.
As the course leads up Lime Lane towards Spondon the first shock I got was the long steady climb of around half a mile, which was quite challenging. My ankles were aching and the only thing that soothed the pain was the splashing of water from the puddles. As I reached the top of the hill I was pleased to see the crossroads at mile 5 where I would be turning left towards Morley, and the return leg of my run.
Mile six was probably the hardest mile (mentally) as Lime Lane just seemed to go for an eternity, but I pushed through it and reminded myself that this was just the low point of this run, and it would soon pass. It did soon pass and as I ran past the mile six marker I was relieved to see the dip down through Donkey’s Hollow. However, as always, what goes down must come up so I was not looking forward to the climb back up to the A608.
The climb in fact was actually far easier than I had imagined, and I was soon back on the main road before the turn off to the second loop of this figure eight course. This leg of the course was relatively flat as I ran with ease along Brick Kiln Lane and only a steady incline up Quarry Road made this an enjoyable part of the run.
Just into mile eight came a sharp decline down Cloves Hill which I thought I would enjoy, but did not. The hill was too steep, and although it was infinitely easier than running up the course back in January, I did not enjoy the run down it at all. It felt like my knees were taking a serious hammering, so I slowed to an almost walk, so not to risk injury. Once at the bottom of the hill I was far happier and it was at this point that I began to mentally prepare myself for the final push up towards Smalley.
The climb up into Smalley must have been easy as I do not even remember it, and I always remember this hill, as it is mostly always at the end of my runs when I am tired. To not even remember it means I must have run it well.
The final mile through Smalley was a formality and I crossed the finish line both jubilant and proud of where my life has come, in terms of priorities. As far as the run is concerned, the time was pretty slow, but this is what I had wanted. This was a planned easy run, so I kept it that way.

Run time: 1:29:49 *CR

Pace: 8:59 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 120



“The man who can drive himself further once the effort gets painful is the man who will win.”

2nd July 2007

Denby 8 Mile

Conditions: Mild, Wet

Date: 2nd July 2007

Run Type: Easy

Notes: Due to constant niggling injuries throughout my short running career, I decided to adapt my runs to incorporate a proper and sufficient warm up. I have always lacked the motivation to do a correct and thorough warm up and I believe this has been my down fall. For this reason, from here on in I will start all my runs with a one mile warm up at a very steady pace, followed by stretching, before proceeding with that days run.
Having done the one mile warm up to Wood Lane and the subsequent stretching, I proceeded towards the doctors before turning down towards Kilburn and the mile two marker. I took my time going down Ryknield Road, and tried to use my core muscles for support and stability.
As I turned onto Chapel Street for the third mile I felt a slight aching in my ankles, which I will have to keep an eye on and if it persists then I will have to replace my running shoes sooner than planned. Apart from the slight pain, the third mile flew by, as did the fourth. I remember seeing that my times were steady and it was around mile five that I remember feeling very good and strong, but I kept the pacing even, to ensure that I kept this an easy run.
The fifth mile led up past the ‘Shit Farm’ which had to be the low point of the run as the smell was almost unbearable. To top it off after the Shit Farm was nearly a mile of constant climbing back up towards Woodhouse. I remember half way up that I nearly stopped but I pushed through it and made it to the summit. Once I did, as always I soon recovered for the final two miles of the course.
The final two miles were a formality, and again I kept a steady pacing throughout and when I crossed the finish line I felt good and only a little tired. The overall time was pretty slow but I told myself from the start that it would be and that the main aim was to get around the course with minimal effort and strain on my hamstring.

Run time: 1.10.42 *Course PB

Pace: 8.51 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 124



“Stadiums are for spectators. We runners have nature and that is much better.”

26th June 2007

Moorways 7 Mile w / 8x100m

Conditions: Mild, Dry

Date: 26th June 2007

Run Type: Easy / Interval

Notes: Finally it is upon me, my training for New York has begun. These past few weeks I have felt somewhat lost with my training as I was in my recovery period and I was doing ‘as and when’ training. I was missing the structure of a training schedule. As you will see from my logs and the type of run I did tonight, I have upped the level of training I will be doing for New York. This not only means the intensity but also scientifically. I will be doing more interval running, more marathon pace runs and in general a hell of a lot more mileage. At the end of the day I pissed around with training for Edinburgh. This time I will give the Marathon more respect.
I set out on my first session from work and made the three mile journey towards Allenton (the location of my first ever race) and Moorways running track. I had learned from a call earlier in the day that athletics clubs use the track on a Tuesday so I would not be able to do my intervals on there. This however was my first training session and the inability to use the track was not going to stop me. Using Google maps I had marked out a hundred meter repeat next to the track and would be using that for today’s session.
I gave the repeats some respect having learnt the hard way from running with Heanor Running Club, and didn’t go out too fast. I pushed hard towards the half way point but in all my splits were pretty even. The final two were the quickest as I really pushed for them. With this being my first session however and having a 3.5 mile return leg ahead of me I never pushed myself to the limit. In all thought I was happy with the main part of today’s run.
As I set off for the return leg home my legs felt very tired so I ran at a recovery pace as I made my way through the back streets towards Osmaston Road. I enjoyed the new surroundings but did start to feel very tired for the final two miles.
As I entered the City I upped the intensity and speed of the run, and once I crossed the finish line I remember feeling pleased with my first session back in full training.

Run time: 59.45 *Course PB

Pace: 8.33 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 130



“Somewhere in the world someone is training when you are not. When you race him, he will win.”

22nd June 2007

Smalley-Heanor 4 Mile (R)

Conditions: Rain

Date: 22nd June 2007

Run Type: Easy

Notes: With the hot weather last week a thing of the past, we were experiencing the subsequent down pour that always follows good weather. Rain however does not stop for races, as I found out in Edinburgh so it was not going to get in the way of my training run.
I left from home on a new four mile course during a severe storm but did not even care. In fact I actually enjoyed getting out in the rain as it kept me cool. As I left Kerry Drive along ‘Allsop’s’ I felt good, but I knew this would not be a super easy run as I have partied pretty hard since Edinburgh and time off through partying always takes it’s toll. However I deserved the time off, but in one week the intensity starts again.
As I passed the one mile marker at Adale Road and the next mile came and went but I remember thinking on the climb up through Broadway in Heanor that I thought I would be more tired up this climb but I felt good. I do remember my ankles aching slightly which may be the lifespan of my shoes coming to an end, which I will keep an eye on over the coming sessions. In all however I passed the two mile marker in high spirits and felling positive about the run, even with the rain still coming down heavy.
The third miles leads down through the drinking zone of Heanor and eventually back to ‘Smalley Hill’ which is the one major challenge of this easy four mile course. As I approached it I remembered my early training and breathing techniques and I felt good all the way up the hill, but remember feeling it slightly at the top.
A few hundred yards after the summit of the hill I passed mile three and really went for it for the final mile. I crossed the finish line a little slower for the final mile than I thought I had, and hoped to. I am putting this down to time off and loss of strength from Edinburgh.
I am getting back into my training now but I know I must train hard and not miss sessions like I did for Edinburgh, although my whole trip to New York will suffer and that is not an option. I also need to incorporate some strength work at the gym to enable the speed sessions to become effective.

Run time: 33.19 *Course PB

Pace: 8.20 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 134



“I believe in the runner's high, and I believe that those who are passionate about running are the ones who experience it to the fullest degree possible. To me, the runner's high is a sensational reaction to a great run! It's an exhilarating feeling of satisfaction and achievement. It's like being on top of the world, and truthfully... there's nothing else quite like it!”

19th June 2007

Wood Lane 1 Mile Challenge

Conditions: Raining

Date: 19th June 2007

Run Type: Speed / Record Attempt

Notes: Having spent Monday night in the gym doing strength work, a medium to long run was out the question tonight so I was unsure what run to do as until next weekend I am not following an exact training plan. I was however really eager to run. Having not entered any races apart from the Edinburgh Marathon, I had not set any PB’s in 2007 and we are already in June. For this reason I decided to do a one mile run, against the clock. That coupled with my failed attempt two days ago. However that was a spur of the moment thing, where as this attempt had been planned all day, so I was better prepared mentally.
After a long warm up I set out from the end of my road and proceeded along the A608 before turning right up Dobholes Lane to tackle the only hill on this one mile challenge. I took it steady over the hill so not to burn out to quickly in the mile.
Once over the hill the course takes a slight decent down towards Wood Lane and it was at this part that I felt I was running really well so I upped my pace to make sure I got that sub seven finish.
Towards the end of the mile I found it really hard as I has given so much in the middle third. For the last two hundred yards or so I had to dig deep to ensure I did not slow off too much and waste all the effort I had put in. I came around the final corner and kicked it to cross the finish line in 6.20.
I smashed my PB for the mile and to say I had sore legs and have not trained properly for over three weeks I was very proud of my time. I know that with proper training that mile will soon drop to sub 6, however I feel that this may be easier done on the track. One day I will run a sub 5……One day!!

Run time: 6.20 (PB)

Pace: 6.20 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 137



“Everything is practice.”

17th June 2007

Wood Lane 2 Mile

Conditions: Mild, Dry

Date: 17th June 2007

Run Type: Tempo

Notes: I decided to treat this run as a one mile warm up for the out leg, followed by some stretching before a mile of effort for the return leg. Whenever I decided to treat the first mile as a steady warm up I always look at my watch as I pass the mile marker and see a respectable time. It is reasons like this that still make me wonder how I managed to go out so conservatively in Edinburgh.
Having crossed the mile marker and completed the subsequent stretching I decided to really go for it for the return leg. The first half mile was ok and I was running well and the thought of a potential PB was at the back of my mind. This however all went wrong as I hit the long steady climb up towards Dobholes Lane. Now this is barely a hill but when you have pushed so hard in the early stages it felt like a mountain. I felt my legs tiring very quickly and breathing became very hard, that hard in fact that I had to slow right off and abort my attempt to run a new PB for the mile.
I still crossed the finish line in under 8 minutes so in all I was relatively happy with the run. I was not too disappointed that I had to pull out, however based on my time, if I had kept going I would have easily broke that 7 minute barrier.

Run time: 15.20

Pace: 7.40 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 139



“Your shoes are only as good as the laces they're attached to.”

15th June 2007

Smalley-Heanor 4 Mile

Conditions: Heavy Rain

Date: 15th June 2007

Run Type: Easy / Medium

Notes: With the hot weather last week a thing of the past, we were experiencing the subsequent down pour that always follows good weather. Rain however does not stop for races, as I found out in Edinburgh so it was not going to get in the way of my training run.
I left from home on a new four mile course during a severe storm but did not even care. In fact I actually enjoyed getting out in the rain as it kept me cool. As I left Kerry Drive along ‘Allsop’s’ I felt good, but I knew this would not be a super easy run as I have partied pretty hard since Edinburgh and time off through partying always takes it’s toll. However I deserved the time off, but in one week the intensity starts again.
As I passed the one mile marker at Adale Road and the next mile came and went but I remember thinking on the climb up through Broadway in Heanor that I thought I would be more tired up this climb but I felt good. I do remember my ankles aching slightly which may be the lifespan of my shoes coming to an end, which I will keep an eye on over the coming sessions. In all however I passed the two mile marker in high spirits and felling positive about the run, even with the rain still coming down heavy.
The third miles leads down through the drinking zone of Heanor and eventually back to ‘Smalley Hill’ which is the one major challenge of this easy four mile course. As I approached it I remembered my early training and breathing techniques and I felt good all the way up the hill, but remember feeling it slightly at the top.
A few hundred yards after the summit of the hill I passed mile three and really went for it for the final mile. I crossed the finish line a little slower for the final mile than I thought I had, and hoped to. I am putting this down to time off and loss of strength from Edinburgh.
I am getting back into my training now but I know I must train hard and not miss sessions like I did for Edinburgh, although my whole trip to New York will suffer and that is not an option. I also need to incorporate some strength work at the gym to enable the speed sessions to become effective.

Run time: 34.21

Pace: 8.36 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 142



“Even if you fall flat on your face, at least you are moving forward.”

12th June 2007

Speed Work

Chester Green Running Track

Conditions: Sunny, Humid

Date: 12th June 2007

Run Type: Speed

Notes: Having had a ten day break since my last run, I decided to get my first taste of speed work on the track. The decision behind this was the fact that near my work they have turned the football pitches into a summer running track. Although the track is on grass it is perfectly marked out so I decided to give it a go.
My plan was to do a four lap (one mile) warm up followed by a further sixteen laps (four miles) of 100m repeats. When I arrived however for my warm up I realised how much the partying and lack of training since my marathon had taken its toll. The sun was out in full flow and combined with the humidity made it very hard to run.
I realised after completing my second lap that I would not be doing the full five miles. I completed the four laps and decided that I would leave it at that for today as my chest was tightening up and I was dying of thirst having forgotten to take a drink.
The mistake I made today was trying to do a speed workout for my first session back in training. The first session back is always tough so I should have opted for an easy two or three miles on the road, with no long bends. I am not worried however as I have two weeks to get my fitness back before my training starts for New York. I have opted for Pete Pfitzinger’s plan for this marathon, which means more miles than ever before but with more science behind them. New York is a much tougher course than Edinburgh and I have twenty minutes to knock off my time so there is a lot of work ahead. This however does not phase me. I am about to start training for my goal race. I can’t wait!!

Run time: 7.53

Pace: 7.53 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 145



“The mile has all the elements of a drama.”

2nd June 2007

Wood Lane 2 Mile

Date: 2nd June 2007

Conditions: Sunny, Humid

Run Type: Easy / Recovery

Notes: Having completed my first full Marathon just under a week ago and having my ability to walk normal back, I decided to go out for a light two mile jog on Saturday morning. The sun was out in full flow and it was an extremely warm day. For this reason and the fact that my muscles will still be in the repair stage I really took my time and never once worried about the time of the miles. After all this is a recovery run during my recovery period.
I set off down the Dobholes lane and my legs felt ok, however a little tired. The sun was very hot and it made running somewhat uncomfortable, however as I was running I imagined I was back in the Edinburgh Marathon, which felt good.
At the one mile marker I was really feeling the sun so I carried on at the very steady pace I was going for the return leg. As I arrived home I remember thinking how happy I was that I could actually run a mere six days after my first full Marathon. I will now rest for another few days before another short recovery run so that come June 24th I am in good condition to start my training for the big one, The New York Marathon 2007. Get in!!

Run time: 17.36

Pace: 8.48 / mile

Days to New York Marathon: 154

Run URL:

http://www.runningahead.com/logs/34009abf92d94d0f9104facd399b6234/workouts/cdbc4a76e5e44f5bb872812ed586a83e


“As you will see above, there have been some changes to my training log for the next leg of my journey. Having completed my first marathon a little slower than I originally planned I know that I must up my weekly mileage. More important however is I must train smarter, not simply harder. Of course if my training is going to become more scientific and advanced, then the way I log my training runs must also become more advanced. This is why I have made changes to my log. All changes are explained below…..

1. As you will see at the top of the page I have now named all my routes. The reason
behind this is that I joined an online running site where I also log my runs. The
software also allows you to create a map of your run with individual elevation
charts. If you hold ‘Ctrl’ and click on the course name it direct you
to ‘RunningAHEAD.com’ where you can view the course and elevation chart.

2. I have replaced my fast and slow miles for an average pace for the entire run.
The science behind this is, that it is not how fast or slow you run each mile
that determines you race finish time It is the average speed that will determine
whether you are making progress in your training or not. With an average pace for
each run I can clearly see what progress I am making.

3. At the foot of the page you will see a ‘Run URL’ which is a link to the online
copy of that particular training session, at ‘RunAHEAD.com’

4. At the foot of each page is an elevation chart of that days run.

5. Finally, you will see that the countdown to Edinburgh Marathon has now been
replaced to a countdown to New York. One hundred and fifty four days to go!



“I don't believe in burnout. I believe in losing your appetite.”

Edinburgh Marathon 2007

Edinburgh Marathon – Race Report

Pre Race

“This is it” I thought as I awoke on Sunday morning at precisely 6.34am. I remember the time clearly as I planned to rise at 6am but had slept through my alarm. After a short telephone call to put my taxi back by half an hour I was up and alive, on the morning of my first full Marathon. Having made the call the second thing I did was open the curtains and prayed for a beautiful morning. What I got however was heavy rain, and lots of it. If I’m truth full, I was absolutely gutted! Every race before this one had provided me with beautiful weather, but hey, this is Scotland. To be fair however the whole of the UK saw a terrible weekend with only a few hours without rain.
So yes it was raining and by looking at the sky it wasn’t going to ease up soon, but I was not going to let a bit of rain ruin my day. “Today I run a marathon” I thought, and as my poem states “I will finish the course come rain or snow”. To be fair I remember thinking, “The rain as a runner does not bother me, it just means there will be less spectators and a lot of waiting around in bad conditions”.
So it was raining but there was nothing I could do about it. I moved away from the curtain and started going through my morning routine. I went for a shower before eating a light breakfast consisting of, a Hobnob flapjack, a yoghurt, a bottle of orange juice and a bottle of Lucozade. After that all I consumed before the race was water!
Having had breakfast I got dressed and did a final kit check before making my way to reception at 7.25am to wait for my taxi. The roads on the way to the marathon were eerily quiet and my driver told me this was unusual, even for marathon race day. Just as we were entering the city I was looking at the beautiful buildings that make Edinburgh so special when something in my head told me to check my kit. Everything was there, but then it hit me “My race number” I shouted, “I’ve forgot my race number”. I couldn’t believe it. I never forget any of my kit, let alone my race number! I asked the driver to turn around so I could go fetch it.
On the second attempt we made it into the city and around 8.05am. There were few people around where my driver dropped me but this was a good few hundred yards away as the roads ahead were closed. I got out of the taxi and started walking towards the start. The rain was still coming down hard and it did put a damper on things but I just kept walking like a man possessed, not thinking about anything but the task ahead.
I walked around a corner onto Princes Street where the marathon starts and it hit me. I saw the start line and hundreds of runners, but not as many as I thought there would be. I needed to prepare for the race so I dived in McDonald’s, which had become a refuge for cold wet runners trying to shelter. I prepared in the toilet and having set my Ipod up, vaselining those delicate chaffing areas and strapped on my ‘energy belt’ as a friend dubbed it, I was out the door and heading for the baggage trucks. When I got outside the number of runners had quadrupled. Princes Street was now filling with up to 10,000 runners all trying to stay dry under shop canopies.
I found the truck with my race number and after one final kit check I handed over my bag to be taken to the finish. From the truck I proceeded away from the crowds to find a place to go to the toilet. I saw the line for the portable toilets and there was no way I was waiting that long. Shortly after as I was warming up I heard an announcement but could not understand what was said as I was too far away. I then saw hundreds of runners making there way to the start. This I did understand…….It was show time!!

The Race

I made my way to my pen based on predicted my finishing time and continued my warm up by stretching and massaging my legs. I heard the announcer say “Five minutes until the start”. I had thought about this moment many times before and the thought alone made me nervous, however in the moment I was very calm. The announcer also said “Lets here it for the runners of this years Marathon”, and the crowd went wild. That felt good, very good in fact and I knew there and then that this huge crowd (even for an awful day) was going to be a huge help at the latter stages of the race. The next thing I remember was walking forward to the start line and before I knew it we were off.
It took me around thirty seconds to get to the start line and as soon as I crossed it I heard a voice in my head saying “Don’t go out too fast”. I spent the first few hundred yards taking in the atmosphere as the support from the crowd was fantastic. As the course went away from Princes Street the crowds started to thin out so I turned on my Ipod and simply ran at a very slow pace. In training I have not always been that good at pacing but I passed the one mile marker in just over nine and a half minutes so I was pleased with my first miles time.
The second mile leads out of the city and down a long sloping road so I simply kept calm, did not get excited and just kept at the pace I was going. It was still raining but that no longer bothered me. I remember very little about the next one and a half miles but I do remember running down a road and seeing a beautiful young lady in front of me. I have been told by a fellow marathon runner at work that when it gets tough to pick out a young lady or two and follow them, as it helps take your mind off things. Now this was only two miles into the race but what I thought was that if I follow her I would not get excited and start running too fast.
Miles two and three were paced just about right but if anything a little too slow but at this stage I was happy to be running too slow rather than too fast. After all this was my first marathon and I had no idea how tough those final few miles might be.
Miles four leads out towards the coast and onto Portobello Promenade where we were greeted by our first race photographer. I smiled intently and it was at that point that I realised how much fun I was having. I kept following the girl in front and the next two or three miles flew by.
After a couple of water and energy stations the next thing I remember was seeing a huge crowd at the first relay change over just before mile eight. Shortly after we passed over a small bridge, where we were greeted by the sight of the finish line at Musselburgh race course. From here on in the route was an out and back loop and I was looking forward to seeing the leading pack somewhere along the next few miles. The lady I had been following had fell behind but to keep my mind off the task ahead I knew that soon enough we would be greeted by the elite runners on the return leg.
As the course led away from the eventual finish line we were greeted by another energy station before a long straight climb up towards the half way point at Port Seton. You could feel the sea breeze along this stretch and I remember how good I felt at this point. I was actually enjoying myself but I did not get excited and just kept going at the mid nine minute miles pace. I could have easily run faster but I did not want to pay the penalty of doing so over the second half of the race.
As we approached the halfway point there was another huge crowd as shortly before mile thirteen was the second relay change over. This crowd really lifted me as the long stretch up to this point was very quiet so the crowd was a huge welcome. Having passed the crowd we then passed the half way point and a sign saying “halfway, well done”. This was nice to see but made me laugh as getting to half way is the easy part. The next thirteen miles was going to be the real test.
Having passed the half way point we were shortly greeted by the leading pack coming the other way. Seeing how fast these guys were running really gave me inspiration but one thing I did not envy was how lonely it was for these guys. The people around me really helped me through the tough parts of the course but hey I’m not saying that I would not swap having runners around me for being up there with the elite runners.
As the elite runners came towards us in one then two then three and so on I knew that I would soon be at the turn around point at Gosford House and mile seventeen. The road up to Gosford house was long and I remember miles fourteen to sixteen dragging on forever and it was at this point that the fatigue started to set in and my legs began to tire. It was at this point that I started taking the energy gels I had strapped to my ‘energy belt’.
As the number of runners on the return leg started to grow I knew we were nearly there. The views at this point were amazing and then suddenly as we went around a corner I saw it. The turn around point and yet another huge crowd shouting and cheering. As I turned around to head back to Musselburgh I remember my legs being very tired but I simply told myself “Come on now Adam were on our way home”. This gave me a lift but I knew before the long straight back home were two more short diversions.
The first diversion came shortly after the turnaround where we entered Gosford House grounds and ran around the house and then proceeded back out onto the main section of the course. I remember halfway around the grounds that my legs felt very tired and I realised that it was at the lonely parts of the course that I was beginning to suffer. We led out of the grounds and down towards Lonniddry.
The second diversion came just before mile nineteen as the course leads of the main road and down towards Lyars Road. I was not looking forward to this part as you could see the other runners running back out and I just wanted to be where they were. However when I saw hat was waiting for us at the second turnaround point I was glad that a genie did not come down and grant my wish. The crowd here was the best yet. They were putting everything into it and the noise was unreal. The feelings I got here were too amazing to describe. As I ran away from the crowd and the noise faded out my attention was brought back to my tired legs so I took another hit of energy gel and was back running with ease but in lots of pain. As we approached the main road again this was it. I was on the final leg of the race; I was on my way home!
I do not really remember much of mile nineteen but the next thing I clearly remember was seeing the sign for mile twenty. Each step I now took was the furthest I had ever run. My legs were now getting very tired and very tight and I was beginning to slow down dramatically. It was at this point that I accepted that my secondary goal of a sub four hour finish was fading quickly but my primary goal of finishing with a smile on my face was very much alive. I was now taking the energy gels every few minutes. I actually took six out of the eight I brought during miles twenty and twenty three.
During those miles I was really suffering and I was just waiting each time to see the next mile marker. I was on countdown and so was the energy left in my legs. Once the gels ran out I was running on pure determination as my legs had nothing left. The miles came and went, twenty one, twenty two, twenty three and as I passed each I was fading rapidly. I remember seeing a small Scottish guy that put his hand on my shoulder at what was the hardest part of the race and said “Come on man nearly there”, and this really helped me push through the pain barrier. I passed the mile twenty four marker and remembered thinking how close I was to finishing my first Marathon. I kept repeating to “Come on Adam” over and over. I was now in a mental battle as my legs were empty. One thing is for sure though I never once considered dropping out, even with my legs being that tired and that tight that I could have easily said “f#@k it”, the thought never crossed my mind!
One more huge crowd lift came at the mile twenty five marker and it was here that I turned my Ipod off for the final push up to Musselburgh race course. After one final energy station the crowd began to steadily grow which I knew could only mean one thing, I was nearly there. I saw the race course and knew that I was nearly there, my legs were dead, but something happened that I will never forget. Seven of my friends came to Edinburgh to support me but due to bad traffic and road closures they could not get anywhere near the course so I never once saw them throughout the race. However as I was approaching the mile twenty six marker positioned on the entrance to the race course I saw two of my friends who shouted “Go on Fairf” and I will never forget the emotion that came over me. I literally could have cried like a baby running those last few hundred yards.
Then it was there, I entered the race course and threw my jacket over a wall as for the first time in the past four hours the rain had stopped and it was actually sunny. I ran towards the finish line and the emotion grew but I held it in. The crowd here was in it’s thousands and I have never experienced anything like it before. I sprinted that last hundred meters and crossing that finish line for my first full marathon is something that will be with me forever. They say that when you cross the finish line at your first marathon you decide there and then if you will ever do it again. Most say no. I cannot wait to get back into training for the NYC Marathon in November. I had done it, I had completed a marathon and the best part, I loved every minute of it!

Edinburgh Marathon - Pre Race Report

Edinburgh Marathon - Pre Race Report





So there it is my final entry into my training log. It has been a long hard struggle to get to this point. I have spent many hours on the road, many of them in pain, and many in pure ecstasy. There have been many highs and many lows, so much pain, sweat and tears. However, when I look back over the last nine months I know why I did it. It was for moments like this, when I am sitting here in pure ecstasy and anticipation of what Sunday morning will bring. I am sure there will be more sweat, more tears and my mind and body will pushed to breaking point, and beyond, but I am prepared, I am ready.


My journey has led me down roads and paths, from highs to lows, through rain and snow and I have come out the other end a better person than I ever was before. I am stronger, fitter and healthier and despite what people may say I am envied because I am doing something that most people would never dream of. It’s not just running twenty six miles, it’s the hundreds of miles that got me there. It was the training whilst friends were partying. It was the suffering whilst others were relaxing. However I would not change a thing and I would do it all again, only better.


Once this race is out the way it all starts again in preparation for New York in November, but that is another chapter in ‘My Journey’, for now I will leave you with this thought…….



“Nine months ago I set myself a challenge of running the New York Marathon. I have spent many hours on the road in training for this event. After several weeks of training I entered a local 10k race. When I crossed that finish line I felt the most unbelievable euphoria and I knew there and then that I was hooked. Within twelve weeks I had completed my first half marathon and nine months later I am in final stages of preparation for my first full marathon.


There have been highs and lows, injuries, holidays, illnesses that have all tried to prevent me from reaching my goal, but none have succeeded. I am ready for this and I will take this chance I have been given and I will show the world that I am strong , that I am a winner, that I will be victorious and that I will cross that finish line smiling.


I have reached a critical point in my journey. Get this wrong and it could scar me forever, get it right and it could be the start of something beautiful.


I am under no illusion that this is without doubt the greatest challenge of my life so far. However, what is the point in having goals if they are easy? What is the point of having a goal that when if you reach it you wonder why you feel no different? What is the point of having a goal that brings you no fulfillment? What is the point?


It is not crossing the finish line that changes you or makes you a better person, it is the person you become when you cross that finish line, and I will cross that finish line….


The decision has already been made!!”




“There is no I in team, however, there is and I in win... And I will WIN!”

24th May 2007

Final Training Run

24th May 2007

2 Mile Taper Run

Conditions: Sunny, Warm

Notes: Well here I am, writing my final log entry before my two hundred and eighty mile journey up north to Edinburgh, to run my first full marathon. Having had an extremely painful pre race massage two days ago, I was advised and decided to run a very easy two miles as my final run. I also decided to stop at my Grandparents, who live little over a mile from my house, to say hello and goodbye before the biggest day of my life so far.
I set out running at an unbelievably slow pace and just really enjoyed the mile (well just over) run to my Grandparents. I stopped at the mile marker to stretch out and shortly after made the hundred or so yard run to my grandparent’s house.
After a hello and goodbye I set out again on the return leg. I again ran very slowly and I just took the time to enjoy my final run before the big day. I thought about the race, the finish and the good times that I have enjoyed in training that make this whole thing worth while. I crossed the line neither tired or out of breath in the slightest, which shows how far I have come. When I started out I would run two miles round the block and come back gasping with a tight chest. Not anymore, as on Sunday I become a marathon runner.

Run Time: N/T

Days to Edinburgh Marathon: 3




Below are a few pointers for myself to help me on race day…..

1.Don’t go out too fast!!

2.Don’t go out too fast!!

3.Don’t go out too fast!!

4.Remember your hill training (Form and breathing) when it get’s tough!!

5.Picture the finish line in times of struggle and what crossing the line will
feel like!!

6.Imagine the feelings you will get when telling everybody that you did it!!

7.Remember songs that inspired you in training runs. Below are just a select few…..

• Superman – Syntax 10k
• Chasing Cars – First 10k
• Worlds Greatest – Those tough first few runs
• Rocky Tunes – All training sessions



"Dream barriers look very high until someone climbs them. They are not barriers anymore."

21st May 2007

5 Mile Run = Home - Woodhouse - Kilburn - Home

Date: 21st May 2007

Conditions: Mild, Sunny

Notes: With the Edinburgh Marathon only six days away and having a sports massage tomorrow, this was my penultimate run before the three days rest leading up to Sunday morning. I decided on a light five mile run on a new route. I chose to run towards Belper but cut back through Kilburn before hitting Belper.
The first mile was the usual mile that finishes at the cross of Dobholes and Wood Lane. Having listened to my Sports masseuse (Sam) who ran the London a few weeks back, I went out stupidly slow. Sam informed me that the end of the race is extremely hard and that you need to go out slower than you have even run before for the first fourteen miles. Having listened to what she said I passed the one mile marker a little faster than I had hoped to but much slower than I usually reach this point by.
Having passed the marker the next mile leads down towards the A38 and Belper. This was an enjoyable part of the run but I felt the aching in my ankles again and really needed the toilet but I told myself that I won’t stop, and soon enough I had blocked out that I needed the toilet. I passed the mile two marker thirty seconds slower than the first mile and this is almost the pace I think I need to run to finish the Marathon well and in sub four hour time.
The third mile cuts through Kilburn and the aching in my ankles was slowly wearing off and I was running well. I had some ‘back to my roots’ music playing in the form of ‘Happy Hardcore’ which was good to run to but did not give me the drive and determination that I thought it would. This was probably due to me having it already. I passed the mile three marker dead on eight and a half minutes. I knew however that the tough part of this run was now upon me.
Mile four leads up Ryknield Road, which is a steep climb back up to Woodhouse. I remember feeling my legs tire a little but I remembered one of the quotes I had used for previous training log that goes, “Workouts are like brushing my teeth; I don't think about them, I just do them. The decision has already been made." I remember running up that long steep hill and thinking to myself, “I will make it to the top without stopping. The decision has already been made.” This gave me all I needed to reach the top and continue once there. I felt tired at the top but I remembered my previous training runs and just concentrated on form and breathing and soon enough I was running with ease again and I crossed the four mile marker well under my maximum of nine and a half minutes for the mile. This is a classic example of running being as much a mental sport, as a physical one!
The final mile was a steady one back through Woodhouse. As I came to the junction to the main road (A608) I saw a female runner in front of me ands decided that I was in a race and she was in first and me in second. She was that far ahead that I knew I would never catch her before I crossed the finish line, however I gave it my all anyway. I crossed the line with a late eight minute final mile, and felt fantastic in doing so.

Positive: I used my inner power and proved that running is as much mental as physical sport.
Negative: I did not warm up my lower leg properly and suffered with an aching ankle.


Days to Edinburgh Marathon: 6

Fast Mile: 8.14

Slow Mile: 9.14

Run time: 43.31



"Believe in yourself, know yourself, deny yourself, and be humble."

16th May 2007

Syntax 10k

16th May 2007

Training Run - Taper

Conditions: Mild, Raining

Notes: I am now well into my tapering for the Edinburgh Marathon, but I have never had more enthusiasm towards wanting to get out on the road. What I keep telling myself is that I don’t want to over do it, so I have opted for running and resting on alternate days.
For today’s run I decided to run home from work (dubbed the Syntax 10k). This consists of a one mile warm up to the Odeon Cinema and then a six mile run home. From using the ‘route planner’ software I found online I realised that the past few times I have run this route I have been running short of six miles so I expected this time to be much slower than previous runs. Time however was not top of my list, this is a taper run so I would not be pushing myself to get a good time.
After the one mile warm up I set off from the new starting point just before the Cinema entrance, up towards Oakwood. The climb up the hill was steady and I concentrated hard on my breathing and form. Once at the top of the hill I felt good but I realised I had not warmed up the muscles around the ankles enough as they felt very tight and sore.
As I passed the one mile marker I looked at my watch and I was nine seconds under my eight and a half minute mile pace that I need to run to get my sub four hour finish in Edinburgh.
The second mile leads out of Oakwood and down towards Broomfield College. As I passed the two mile marker the pain in my ankle was not easing at all and I had slight stitch but my time again was well under the target pace. I was not pushing myself though so I was happy that my conservative pace was under my target pace which gives me high hopes of getting that sub four finish.
As I passed the second mile marker and began the descent towards Broomfield, followed by the subsequent climb up towards Morley I remember the pain in my ankles slowly easing but it was still causing some discomfort. As I approached the mile three marker I remember the last time I was at this point. Superman came on my Ipod and it gave me the most unbelievable amount of adrenaline and energy. That thought alone got me through the next mile and by the time I reached the mile four marker at Morley Hayes the pain had gone and I had just run another eight and a half minute mile.
Having passed Morley Hayes, the course then led down to Smalley Cross and having negotiated the traffic the next thing I remember was passing the mile five marker and as I looked at my watch I saw that this was my slowest mile of the run thus far at just under nine minutes. This is still well within my pace as I have allowed anything up nine and a half minute miles for my race.
As I passed the mile five marker on the hill up to Smalley I remember how hearing the Superman tune gave me a huge burst of energy so I quickly skipped through my track list until I found it. Hearing this whilst running up that hill made it so easy. I have never run up that hill so effortlessly and felt so good at the top. I finished the course feeling amazing and even more importantly my right hamstring felt ok and feels fine the morning after.
In closing this was a successful run. The low point was the pain in my ankles, but that soon went after around three miles. I know that warming up more thoroughly is a must come race day. The high point of this race was how easy I ran up that final hill. It was proof that running is as much a mental battle as a physical one. If you are in the right frame of mind and you block out what it is you are actually doing, you can achieve anything. When I was running up that hill I was not alone in Smalley. I was Superman running with ease with the whole world watching me. It felt good and it confirmed why I put myself through this pain day in day out. That reason is because the rewards far outweigh the costs!!

Run Time: 51.15

Days to Edinburgh Marathon: 11



"Fear is a great motivator."