Surviving the festive period

This can be a dangerous time of year due to the excesses which we all undertake.  It's difficult to avoid the rich food and the copious amounts of alcohol as you catch up with friends and family and totally switch off from work.  Triathletes tend to take November and December as a wind down period having trained all year however for me I missed so much of last year with my hamstring injury that I'm certainly not "over trained".  So I am slowly building back up.
In my last blog I promised I would fit in two turbo sessions - well that almost cost me a very serious injury.  On boxing day the weather was beautiful, crisp, cold and blue skies with no wind so rather than get on my turbo trainer I decided to head out at mid-day when the chance of ice was lower and go out for my first bike ride in 6 weeks.  It was fantastic being out and the roads were ok.  However on a fast decent when I was doing 35 mph I got a speed wobble on my front wheel.  This is where the wheel starts vibrating and moving from side to side affecting the whole bike.  Your arse certainly tightens as does your whole body which makes the wobble worse as what you need to do is relax.  I got myself into the position that sorts the wobble and the bike began to behave but I felt sick so took it easy for the rest of the ride.  Coming off the bike in just lycra and a crash helmet would certainly have set my training back or even worse ended it.  Later that day a friend of mine posted the same had happened to him at the same spot so it must have been the road conditions.
I've had lots of regular running on road and off road and not only managed back to back 10 mile runs at Chatelherault but also did my first 3 laps in one go meaning the mileage is increasing.
But yesterday I remembered I had promised 2 bike sessions so I went out and set the turbo up and climbed on.  It was only a short session to spin my running legs from the day before but it made me realise I need to get mentally prepared for the turbo because it is so boring but essential training.  At least there are no speed wobbles - I'm going to have to build up my confidence after that one on my next downhill.
This afternoon I am trail running with Rosie Bell a past winner of the West Highland Way race and I intend to pick her brains in preparation for my 100 mile run along the same trail.  I need to understand the nutritional requirements because after taking food on you will be running so it needs to be simple food.  Also runners have been known to hallucinate when running over 70 miles and there is also the issue of running for at least 5 hours in the dark.  So plenty to learn and what better way to do it that while running through some beautiful countryside in the sunshine. This break has been fantastic so far and the training means the extra food & wine shouldn't have any impact on the waistline!  Hope you are all having a wonderful Xmas and thinking what you'd like to achieve in 2015.  All the best.

Feeling great

Last week I started the training to get my body and mind read for my 100 mile ultra in 178 days time.  My running hasn't been regular so I addressed that immediately. On Monday night I went out with the Strathaven Striders, a friendly local running club, as I wanted company to motivate me. The pace was faster than normal but I held on for 7.5 miles.  On Tuesday I went for my tough swim session which always makes my legs feel better - even if my lungs want to exit my chest!
Wednesday I was on taxi duties so in between drop off to my daughter's clarinet lesson and pick up I did a fast road run. My thinking was that I should push the pace on the road runs.
Saturday saw 2 laps (total 10 miles) at a wet and muddy Chatelherault with some pals and Duke & Rosie who are fast, cover double the distance and use their "4 wheel drive" to its full advantage! I felt good after the run but it was a couple of minutes slower than my norm.
I returned this morning to have a back to back session and ran with another friend for 2 laps. We ended up just under the target time so I was happy with that but the most pleasing part is my legs feel fantastic! Back to back runs are a great way of preparing for ultra runs and they will play an important part in my training.
What is lacking is my turbo training on the bike. But this is where you can help me. I am going to set my bike up today on the turbo and promise to have done 2 sessions by next's week blog.  I've been putting it off because you need to be mad to love turbo training and I know it's going to be tough. I also need to find my heart rate monitor which has been missing for months. But even if I can't find it I need to get back on the bike because I have a tough half ironman in May. So one week in and the plan seems to be working.

From 10 miles to 100 miles in 185 days

What a difference a week makes.  My last post was talking about motivation and how getting a place in the West Highland Way would have motivated me to ramp up my training.  Well I didn't make the ballot, I was one of the 75 people that didn't get in.  I was gutted.  There went my season's "A Race" and who's to say the same wouldn't happen next year as it is an absolutely fair race and wouldn't give preference to those that failed the year before.
The next day I was running an "inspirational workshop" with a senior management group talking about my journey and explaining how important their mind set was.  That night I got home and posted on FB that I was looking for some ideas for a new race for next year.  As a result I have the most amazing opportunity.  I have created my own event.
The West Highland Way + has been launched.  Two days before the main event I will be meeting friends from ATHelite Triathlon Club and the "tartan army" from the Marathon des Sables 5 miles north of Fort William (I don't want to clash in anyway with the main event).  We are going to run the race in the reverse order and we are going to add on 5 miles so that it become a 100 mile ultra (5 miles more than the WHW race).  Some people will be running the whole way, others will be running one section and others will be providing the support required from water to food to encouragement to massages.  My friends have come forward in numbers wanting to support me in this event.  Today The Cross Garage in Stonehouse owned by Davy Dorricott offered me a campervan as a support vehicle.  Thanks guys, this is going to be awesome - even better than running the official race and getting the coveted goblet.
We'll raise lots of money for our chosen charities along the way.  I feel so motivated I can start my training seriously.  I now have 185 days to get my running mileage up from 10 miles to 100 miles - now that's what I call a challenge!  So hopefully those that follow my blog will see what is required to get myself into shape to complete a monster of an ultra marathon.  Thanks in advance to all my friends that will be supporting me in the planning and the execution of the event.  Here goes!

Motivation requires goals

It's a tough time of year to get motivated.  Plenty of distractions like nights out and bad weather so usually Nov/Dec is a quieter time.  However with the potential of a 95 mile ultra marathon with 14,700 feet of climbing in June, you'd think I'd be raring to go.  Not the case.  However this will change next week when I find out if I have been successful in getting a place in the West Highland Way Race.  I think my focus will turn on immediately and the plan will be formulated.  Strange how motivation works or perhaps it's just me, but I doubt it.
If I don't get in well I will need to find another "A race".  I've got my half ironman in May and that will be tough but it's not my "A race". 
My training has been poor although I had an excellent swim on Friday of 2,200m with a pal and then ran with a group on Saturday covering 20k.  My injuries seem to be behaving so the reduction in training has given them longer to recover.
I'll need to step up my mileage on the runs but this will be gradual.  Yoga is going to have to play a bigger part to reduce the chances of injury.
I also need to get back on the bike but in this weather it will be indoor training.  Can't say I am looking forward to it but I know that after 1 month of hard training I'll be in great shape.
I started my blog talking about motivation.  A lot of people think I'm always motivated but it is difficult to keep it going sometimes.  Here's hoping that next week the news is good. 

The long game

It's been a strange week for my heart rate variance. I started of with a score of 69 and green which was one of my highest scores ever however with a very busy and long week at work the score dropped to 44 and red meaning I didn't train.  I've gone against the score before and ended up out of action for a week so I rested even although I was due to be training. It paid off this morning I went for a 10 mile trail run and felt good.
I reminded myself that I'm in for the long game.  I have 6 months to go before my 70.3 Ironman and the priority is building up my base fitness. I'm not a full time athlete and there will be times when work or just life affects my ability to train. The heart rate variance keeps me in check and I will persevere with it  for the next few months although it can be very frustrating.
It's my mind, the inner chimp, I have to keep in order. I can't stop thinking about when I was training for MdS and did 4 laps (20 miles) with an 8kg rucksack on my back and then repeated it the following day. Now I'm restricting myself to 2 laps with no weighted rucksack. But I'm 6 months out from my event so I need to give myself a break, even if it frustrates me.
Even a professional athlete has peaks and troughs in their training and I need to come to terms with rebuilding my base fitness and not to compare myself to others who are working towards different goals. I'm so lucky to be able to run around Chatelherault with my pals and am looking forward to building the mileage!

Lazy(ish) week

It's been a lazy week for a number of reasons. My main training was restricted to the Tuesday morning yoga, Tuesday night swim, Golf on Friday (5 mile walk,) Saturday morning 10 mile trail run and yoga on Sunday.  This was due to being in London for 2 days and this weekend seeing my son flying off to Vancouver for 6 months - the adventure of a lifetime!  Life isn't all about training although as events approach it does seem to take over.
Having done little running over the last few weeks, the 10 mile trail run on Saturday was an effort.  But I went out with a fellow ATHelite Gav and his two dogs Rosie and Duke and they set the pace. Their energy meant the first lap was faster than was comfortable so at the end of it I was considering packing it in. But as we were having a quick drink two other runners came along and started chatting about various ultra races. This short break and the enthusiasm of the runners changed my mind so I headed off for a second lap. I think Rosie & Duke got the message and were happy to double back to make sure I was ok. So the second lap was slower but it's time on my feet that counts.
Last night I had the weirdest dream about the WHW race and turning up unprepared.  The panic as I realised I didn't have my food organised or my blister kit! Can you believe it? I'm not in the race  yet ( will know 2nd week in December) and I am already dreaming about it.  This will become a regular occurrence if I get in.
Today I was meant to be off to run part of the WHW but instead I was off to the airport for an emotional farewell. As I am typing the flight is boarding at Heathrow.  It was a nice cold, sunny day but my legs were suggesting a yoga session would be more beneficial.  If I was nearer an event I'd have done both but at the moment there is no need for that intensity of training - that will start in January.
So I took my time and had a wonderful yoga session. I worked on my breathing and took my time in the stretches. I sweated buckets and by the end felt refreshed and relaxed. Mission accomplished. Next week I'll pick up the training.  As we head towards the festive season the training schedule will need to be flexible.  The 70.3 Ironman in May will get me focused followed by the WHW in June (hopefully).

Listening to my body

It's been an interesting week. Following last weeks struggle with my Tuesday swimming training I enjoyed this weeks much more. That's probably because we did longer sets rather than short faster sets as we had done the week before.  It allowed me to get into a rhythm and although I slowed down towards the end I came away feeling that I had achieved my goal for the night.  But I had noticed my left calf was extremely tight so I booked a sports massage as the yoga hadn't managed to loosen it off.
You can get rollers that help stretch off your muscles but you can never go deep enough yourself so you have to pay someone else to inflict the pain.  I almost needed a rubber stick to bite down on but was reassured that it would ease off within a few days which it did.
My right foot has been giving me problems and my fantastic chiropractor Gill Dingwall wanted to check the structure of my foot. So on Friday she set about it. More extreme pain but I got some answers and was told it would settle down.  But the following morning walking was painful so I decided to listen to my body and take a rest day. Gutted as I really was wanting to go out running with my pals.
Saturday night involved a heavy session (carb loading!) with friends and a very late night. I had budgeted for that which is why I was disappointed I couldn't run that day.  But my master plan was to leave my car and return the following day by bike. This gave me a good reason to get back on my bike which is long overdue and essential now that I've entered a 70.3 Ironman in May at Loch Lomond.  I'm really excited about that as it's been a long time since I've entered an event with my ATHelite Triathlon Club mates -11 of us have entered so it will be fun!
Today's bike ride was just an hour but it was foggy so I was lit up so the car drivers could avoid me and most of them did. My glasses kept misting up so I ended up taking them off and squinting my eyes to avoid the pothole. I was good to be back on the bike.
The good news is the rest did my foot some good as today it's much better. I really do listen to my body and considering the training miles I will be putting in over the winter, I need to be make sure I don't aggravate any injuries.  Next week I'll be checking out part of the West Highland Way -  can't wait!

Setting your "high bar"

When I was a kid we'd play football in a field, kicking the ball up and down but eventually it got boring as we had no aim.  Then we'd put down a couple of jerseys and all of a sudden the game got interesting. We had something to aim for and we knew when the ball went between the jerseys we'd scored a goal.  Bit of a coincidence, not, that goals are what we aim for and training is what gets us there.
This week I have been persevering with my night splint which I am wearing for an hour a day.  It's unpleasant but I know it will help me achieve my goals by going through this discomfort. On Tuesdays swim session I got out 2/3rds of the way through the main set as I felt tired and my stroke was getting worse with every length. However on Friday I slowed down and concentrated on technique and felt a lot better. A good reminder that winter training allows you to build your strength and improve your technique.
For over a month I have been getting low HRV scores and my fitness, or lack of it, has been backing them up. But this week my HRV scores improved and my 10 mile trail run on Saturday felt good. Today it was a bit slower but I would have been tired from the day before as I also fitted in a 30 minute session on a Watt Bike riding beside the legend Mark Beaumont who was cycling for 24 hours raining money for charity.  The watt bike analyses the smoothness of your pedalling action and it turns out mine isn't! That gives me the opportunity of working on that over the winter. But speaking to Mark was inspiring and talk about setting the bar high, he's off any scale you care to mention. Such a nice guy. I asked him what was the hardest part of cycling round the world. He replied a 3,300 mile stretch in Australia where for 32 days he cycled into a head wind!
We can all stretch our goals, push the barrier, get out of our comfort zone but first you need to put the jerseys down to measure your progress. The winter is the time to put in the hard work and I am slowly beginning to feel the benefit of mine although I need to make a massive improvement if I am to reach my goals in 2015. Thank you Mark Beaumont for reminding me just how far we can all go.

Amazing friends & family

I've said before that I keep bad company.  Friends who know no limits.  To them me running the Marathon des Sables was normal.  All the big (in my terms) achievements I have made in the last three years they have exceeded.  Don't get me wrong, they think what I have done is fantastic and have encouraged me all the way.  I train with them and have the utmost respect for their speed, endurance, determination and "can do attitude".  So when Rosie Bell decided to run 100 miles to raise money for the meningitis and was looking for some company I volunteered to do an early session.
So I got up at 4am and at 5am ran an 8 mile "leg" with her.  We chatted away and her speed was just amazing considering the difficulty of the course - I've cycled it (Strathaven 50 race) and it's tough - running it twice is unthinkable.
She managed the run in under 19 hours raising thousands for her chosen charity.  The weather conditions at the end were horrendous but she battled on.  That is the kind of friends I have the privilege of training with and perhaps that gives you an insight into the "mindset and expectations" of my friends and this influences my goals.
So this morning I went out for my ten mile training on the trails.  I ran with three of my friends who are all fit athletes with tough goals set for 2015.  They are working away quietly on there winter training plan knowing that every session is a step closer to what they want to achieve. 
Afterwards I quickly headed out to see my son Ali to finish his first 10k.  The Strathaven 10k is a great race and Ali came home 26th out of 355, and 1st Junior!  He came in on 37:59 - a brilliant time and one I hope he builds on.  But he trains hard and it's good to see him get the results he deserves.  I hope he keeps the same "bad company" as me and that it rubs off on him!
When I got home I strapped on my "boot" which is designed to help my foot problem.  The next two weeks will tell me if it's worked and then we can move on to sort the problem on the top of my foot!  So more yoga and back to swimming to improve my fitness during the week. 
Tonight I will be submitting my entry for the West Highland Way and I should know if I've been successful within 5 weeks.  Fingers crossed.  Let me leave you with this thought; to quote Brian Tracey - "would you rather scratch with turkeys or soar with eagles?"  Keeping bad company with amazing people is good for you!

Getting back to fitness

I've heard it said that it's easier to stay fit than it is to become fit.  I completely agree with this statement as I am fighting my way back to fitness following what's best described as a mixed season.  When I started this blog all those years ago, I really intended it to be a journal for me to look back on.  The good, the bad and the ugly and over the period there has been a mix of all of those elements.  When I am struggling or out on long training days I can keep my mind occupied but thinking about what I am going to write.  It also motivates me to get through the pain barrier and "man up" when I'm struggling, due to too much "chimp" in my head, because I don't want to write about failure.  If I do have to write about failure (DNF Aberfeldy 70.3 2012) then I want to remember why it happened and learn from it.  Aberfeldy resulted in me taking up yoga which is what got me through the Marathon des Sables the following year.
On Tuesday I started the day with a fantastic yoga class.  Due to my foot injury the instructor decided to work on feet so I am sure I'll feel the benefit if I keep up the exercises.  On Tuesday night I went to our weekly torture swimming.  Each week it gets tougher and our coach put us through our paces.  It's tough but I know it's essential to help get my aerobic fitness back.
I was going to take it easy with the running but couldn't resist the offer of one lap at Chatelherault.  The first problem I had was I turned up with a trail shoe on my left foot and a running shoe on my right foot!  Unbelievable so after some severe piss taking and photos we headed off.  The second problem was that due to the company I was running with, I set the pace too fast.  So on the second half of the lap I died.  I struggled to the end of the lap and the chimp was working overtime in my head.  I came in a couple of minutes behind my running partners and felt dreadful.  I sulked off home and took a roller to the instep of my feet to ease the tension (not caused by the shoes - this is now part of my warm down routine).
This morning I decided to repeat the run to see how I felt - couldn't get any worse!  We'd agreed to go slow but as it was only a lap but there was a bit competition between my pals and we did a 48 minute lap in 45:30.  The last mile was tough and I had to dig in as the 425 ft of climbing takes it out of you.  But I pushed on and although I felt sick within minutes of finishing I was fine. This has convinced me that I need a couple of short runs in during the week to be capable of running bigger distances at the weekend and build it from there.  It has also convinced me to withdraw from the Strathaven 10k on Sunday next week as it doesn't fit in with my training plan or goals for next year.  My fitness isn't up to a flat out 10k and I don't want to risk injuring myself.  I know what I need to do to get back to a decent level of fitness and it's now just down to hard work.  Bring it on.

1 step forward, 2 steps back

They say that 80% of runners are carrying some sort of injury at any point in time.  That gives me a degree of comfort but I'd rather be in the 20% category!  On Wednesday I took one large step forward as my very expensive consultant told me my hamstring was feeling good.  He advised plenty of stretching and to be aware of how it feels on runs.  I can always feel something at the back of my leg but he explained that this was probably the scar tissue.  So that's the step forward.
However I had a few painful days with my foot so I booked in to see my podiatrist Robbie at The Treatment Hub.  He fitted my orthotics years ago and has a very good understanding of my feet.  So he's diagnosed an injured/strained or possibly torn plantar fascia.  There is also a possible injury on the top of my foot but on "step" at a time!
I will be wearing a "night splint" for a while to stretch out the hamstring and my toes - sounds like fun doesn't it!  So I will only be running short distances on grass for the next few weeks.  I had promised a friend that I'd run 10 miles with her at some ridiculous time in the morning (probably 4am) as she completes a 100 mile run for charity.  Hopefully I'll be ok by then.
Taking this action now should stop the problem becoming chronic.  But it has to be done.  If it ends up being a long term problem then the goals will need to be reviewed and new ones set probably involving cycling and kayaking as this shouldn't aggravate the problem.  But for the meantime my training will involve yoga, swimming, turbo training and the gym.  Here's to 2 steps forward and 0 steps back!

Short, sharp and painful

I've never been a fast runner. My best ironman marathon sits at 4 hrs and 8 seconds but since then as I have been "going long, and longer" most of my running has been at a pace that can be maintained for distance. However earlier this year I entered the Strathaven 10k which is on 2nd November. This is a fast 10k and I was hoping to get a sub 45 minute time.  This will be a stretch as I haven't been training for speed so on Saturday I did my first 5k park run. OMG! It's only 5k but my legs were wondering why I was in a hurry.
The first 3k were fine but then my lungs joined into the protest. Then I started to feel my porridge making it's way north. I had eaten 2 hours before so I thought that would be plenty of time but trying to run at this pace was straining all my body. I managed to keep the porridge down and finished in 23:14.  This was tough, really tough but the benchmark has now been set and I intend to get faster.
The following day I ran 10 miles at Chatelherault at a much easier pace. That was until my running pals started to increase the pace. I hung on, just, but realised that the low scores I'd been getting for the last 3 weeks were accurate - I'm not fit. I need more regular training to improve my fitness however today my foot and ankle are hurting, played a round of golf and was limping by the end, so I may have to achieve this fitness in the pool or turbo trainer. I certainly don't want to aggravate another injury so I may have to ease off the running for the rest of the week.  I'll start my recovery with a yoga session tomorrow.

Future plans

Last weekend was the Great Scottish Run.  A 10km race followed by the half marathon.  7 years ago I entered the 10km race and when I finished I look on in awe at those lining up for the half marathon.  How could they run double the distance - I was knackered and my legs weren't to happy either!
You've followed my journey since then and know that doubling the distance has been a bit of a theme culminating in Ironman, Marathon des Sables, the Highland Fling and The River Dart 10km swim.  Each time I have considered going longer, doubling the distance, I have thought back to my 10km race and how I felt, then though of what I'd achieved since then.  None of my results are fast but to me it's not about being fast, it's about challenging my mind to stretch the boundaries of what is possible.
Having 5 months off with a pulled hamstring has made me realise just how important my yoga is to me as this is what will keep me in top physical and mental condition.  I can't afford another injury like that and am hopeful that the consultant will give me the all clear next week.  But I am now impatient re my targets for 2015 & 2016 so I want to get them out there.  Obviously they are subject to me being fit and also gaining entry to the events which is easier said than done. 

2015 "A race" - The West Highland Way.  95 miles and targeting a time of 23 hours 59 minutes and 59 seconds (you get my drift!).
2016 "A race" - Cape Wrath Ultra (inaugural event).  400km in 9 days living out on the hills.

Assuming I get in I will continue with my triathlon training and will be entering shorter tri's to keep me sharp.  I'm also going to keep up the swimming and, subject to my training schedule want to entre the 12.5k Loch Ard swim which would be a significant challenge.  There are still Ironmen events (The Celtman) on my list but I want to have a go at the WHW.  When I finished the 'fling, or did it finish me, the thought going through my mind was how can people run another 42 miles after that brutal 53 miles?  Well there is only one way to find out!  Let the training begin with a very clear goal set in my mind.  I'm so excited.

Back to Chatelherault!

Unfortunately I missed our best summer in years due to my injury.  It would have been so good running through Chatelherault Country Park with the sun streaming through the trees but it wasn't to be and swimming became the order of the day.
I upped my running mileage on Saturday to a whopping 8km around the local streets and felt my heart rate was more under control than the previous week which was encouraging.  So on Sunday I thought, let's take a risk and see if I can complete 16km (2 laps of Chatelherault).  My theory was that if it was too hard due to the 425 ft of climbing per lap I could stop after one lap or if I needed to walk the later part of the second lap that would still be a good work out.
It was so nice to be running through the trees on the pine laden floor listening to the birds singing - they were probably saying "the old heavy breather is back"!  I was determined to take it easy and set myself a target of 50 minutes per lap which is about 4 minutes slower than normal.  I managed the first lap in 49:30 so was pleased with myself as I had no aches or pains but knew the second lap would be tougher.
The second lap was completed in 51 mins so I was happy with that and more importantly I had kept my heart rate under 160 beats per minute so felt good.  I had also run it all, with the exception of the "heart attack hill" which I always walk in true ultra runner fashion!  I can't explain how enjoyable it was to be back on this trail again as I had missed the variety of the run.  It's going to get a lot of use over the winter as I rebuild my fitness for my next challenge - details to follow soon.
My quads were telling me they had a workout but my hamstring felt fine - it's still tight and I can feel it but isn't giving me any concerns.  I feel surprisingly good this morning but yoga tomorrow will completely refresh them, so I'm chilled.
On 2nd November I've entered the Strathaven 10km which is a fast course.  If I do feel fit enough to run it, without injuring myself, then I will but all speed has gone from my legs in the past couple of years.  Just got to make sure I don't get carried away with the pace of the runners around me.
It's just a joy to be back running and I am looking forward to the start of my winter training preparing for 2015. I've a lot of work to do.

We're all on a journey

This has been an incredible week in Scotland. The biggest decision in over 300 years and the ramifications of the outcome are incredible. But I'd no idea how the pressure of the outcome weighed on my shoulders. I lacked energy. My HRV scores were the worst ever and while some would be down to the 10k swim on Sunday, the nervous tension was telling. But I'm not about to start talking politics in my blog. It's the impact it had on me physically and mentally that shocked me.
On Friday once the news that Scotland was going to remain in the UK, I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.  Eventually friends started to talk about training and bridges started to mend. This morning my HRV reading were back to where they should be so I decided to go my first run in 2 months.  The injured hamstring feels different but I just have to test it and see how I get on. I warmed up with a short yoga session and then headed out for 5.5 km run. It felt amazing to be out running again. I took it slowly and concentrated on my chi running form. I had taken an extra layer as it wasn't warm when I left but of course the sun came out and I over heated. My heart rate was too high but this is the first day of a new chapter in my journey.
I know what I want to do next year by way of a challenge and it's going to be tough - something I said I'd never do. But I'll "keep my powder dry" at the moment until I see the consultant in 3 weeks. But I will carefully plan my recovery. Build the strength in my hamstring while improving the flexibility. It's going to be small steps at first (I.e. 5.5km) and I'll be slow but I'm determined to come back and complete an iconic race next year.  Hopefully you will follow my progress and if it inspires you to get out there, then even better.  We're all on a journey but remember this is no dress rehearsal. Enjoy every day and live in the present. Thanks for following me.

The River Dart 10 km - my "A" race

I survived.  My "A" race is finished. It's over and I will try and explain to you what it was like, from my point of view.  It was a year ago that my swimming pal Matt Drew mentioned this race to me. We should both enter he said. 10km I thought. You must be mad but it is a stretching target so I agreed. Immediately I posted it on the blog but as the time approached to register, Matt had backed out - probably too easy for him as he's a real swimmer. But I'd posted it so there was no going back.
800 places disappeared in under 2 hours and I was one of the lucky ones. I still hadn't worked out how I could swim that distance. Anyway I had a 53 mile ultra marathon to worry about 1st.
As summer went by I started to pick up my swimming activity and I had a few rough sessions in Loch Lomond with big waves and at the time, while battling through the waves I thought to myself this could come in handy one day. How true that turned out.
So on Saturday I met up with 2 other swimmers from Glasgow , Gary Hurr and Jessica Livingstone. We had a cup of tea while looking at the River Dart, a tidal river. All we could see was mud / sand and it didn't look pretty. The following morning we arrived and the river was going in the wrong direction - shit! But as the race started the tide turned. We waded into the water which was brown and salty with leaves, branches and sea weed floating along.  My goggles started leaking but with hundreds of people around me I couldn't sort it for a while. When your arm entered the water you couldn't see it. This meant you couldn't see someone's toes in front so there was quite a bit of climbing over or being climbed over at the beginning. I settled down trying not to go off to quickly. The tide is meant to improve your speed over a mile by 2 mins but you weren't aware of it. Before I knew it I was at the first feed station (4k) which gave me the opportunity to get some lucozade and get rid of the taste of salt. I felt really good but that was about to change.
The next feed station was at 7k but the river was getting wider (1k at its widest) and very choppy. It was getting like a washing machine and in the waves I was swallowing salt water.  This led to me being sick on a number of occasions and my concentration had to be of getting any water out and not swallowing.  The river seemed to go on forever, a bit like the desert last year, and I tried to enjoy the scenery but the constant bashing by waves made me think more about survival.
At the 7k feed station I took on more lucozade and some jelly babies. A marshal said we'd come through the hardest part but the final section wasn't much easier and I was getting tired - the furthest I'd swam before was 5k and that was only the weekend before. Again the waves were battering me and I was taking water on and being sick. I notice one marshal on a body board keeping an eye on me but by now I was determined it was just keeping moving forward and I'd get there. Swimming in such a large river takes a different mind set because you don't have a turn every 25 or 50 metres. My eyes kept looking at the geography to try and work out when the finish would come into view.  It seemed to go on forever and my swim stroke was shot. I was just holding on. Then, above the waves and the mass of bodies in the washing machine, I saw the end. My stroke came back as I focused on the finish. And it was almost an out of body experience in the last 500 m. Before I knew it I was coming out of the water, in 2 hours 47 minutes, and for a change, I wasn't staggering. I came in 321st out of 722 who finished the race. I felt quiet emotional, I don't know why but that was it. My stretching "A" race for the year finished. All I had to do was walk 300m across a pebbled beach (ouch!) and collect my medal. As I did that I reflected on the journey and was so pleased I had chosen my weakest discipline to work on. I've grown to love swimming, especially open water swimming. The excitement is the risk and the freedom - when I was throwing up and struggling to stay afloat I had to work out how to survive. You don't get that in a pool. The scenery is amazing but I won't be rushing back to a mucky river swim. I think I'll stick to the crystal clear lochs in Scotland.

Loch Ard 5k swim

If you had said to me 6 years ago that I would have swam 5km in open water I'd have thought you were off your head.  Running that distance  back then was hard enough.  But yesterday I was standing with my fellow ATHelite members getting ready to swim the longest I have ever swam.  Was I nervous? No.  I was excited.  What my training and being involved in endurance events over the last 6 years has taught me is that worrying unnecessarily just uses up valuable energy which you will need.  6 years ago I took on a white collar boxing challenge and paced the dressing room for 4 hours.  As I stepped into the ring I remember wondering where all my energy had gone - valuable lesson.
My plan was simple, I was treating this like a training session where all that mattered was an even pace and having an economical style.  Let's face it my swim style isn't pretty and although it's improved over the years, I still think a real swimmer isn't going to be worried that I'll be challenging them.  I entered the water to warm up perhaps a little early as my feet began to lose sensation after 5 minute (lesson #256).  This was a nice, friendly, safe race run by Robert Hamilton of Vigour Events. The 5k race involved about 25 people and Robert gave us our instructions before we set off - no punching, kicking, being swam over or any of that crap.  I quickly got into a rhythm and kept telling myself not to go off too fast.  Sighting at the beginning wasn't easy as you were heading into the sun so spotting the first buoy was a bit of a hit or miss.  Once of my team mates certainly made it a miss as on two of the five laps he swam into a 25 foot high inflatable Iceberg that was 30 metres off the racing line - he won't live that one down in a hurry will you Graeme Scott!
As I turned for home on the first lap I panicked as I couldn't see any swimmers or the next buoy.  That's because I was looking at the wrong angle back down the loch but it made me realise how essential it was that I was wearing my contact lenses, which I don't normally do.  Without them I'd have been blind due to the distance between the buoys so when my goggles started letting water in you can imagine what I was thinking - Sh1t, I can't lose a lens or my swim is over. I took a minute out to sort my goggles and this lost me time with the pack which left me swimming the rest of the race on my own.  But having the security of the marshals in canoes meant I could just concentrate on my stroke and get on with it.
At one stage I thought a fish had locked onto my big toe so I started kicking that toe with my other foot but quickly realised it was just the loss of feeling in my feet combined with an over active mind about what was below the water surface that was making me think this nonsense.  I cruised around the course and kept reminding myself how lucky I was to be doing this.  Loch Ard is stunning and the weather couldn't have been better.
As always I staggered out of the water as lying prone and not using my legs (consultants orders) for 1hr 54 mins (official time) causes you these problems.  I wasn't out of breath or tired but my shoulders were telling me they'd had a decent work out.  After some food and a hot drink I felt great and started to think about next week.
It will be a very different experience for a number of reasons; it's a river so I am hoping that will help although I don't think it's a case of floating down stream; there will be 800 people in the water with me; the water is brown due to the peat so you won't be able to see your fingers; it's double the distance.  Not that it's comparable but I did ask myself the question as I got out the water could I go and repeat it and the answer was yes.  I'm not going to waste any nervous energy worrying about it but feel luck to be taking part.  My main learning point from all of these activities is that you can achieve what you tell your brain you want to do as long as you repeat this behaviour in training.  The human body (and brain) are capable of so much more and next week will be a good test of my belief.  See you on the other side!

Countdown to this year's "A" race

The countdown is on.  When I was persuaded last year to enter the River Dart 10k race I hadn't really thought it through.  I didn't know how I was going to prepare for it but as the time approached I though starting to swim was a good idea!  The last few months have brought a certain focus and not being able to run has helped.  Last week I did an 8 x 500m session however yesterday I did my longest continuous swim (est 4,200m) and felt great when I got out the pool.  I got the pace right and tonight will be getting put through my paces at our weekly swim training session - I work harder when training in a group.  It's amazing how quickly with regular training you can build up the distance whether it be swimming, cycling (I will be back) and running (I will be back).
This morning started off with a wonderful group yoga session.  One hour of indulgence as you drift off into a different world.  I didn't want to leave my mat and inner peace but, needs must so I floated off to work.  At some stage in the future, years away, perhaps the majority of days will start off with a yoga session followed by a relaxing breakfast and a day of discovery.  But until then I will sandwich in my yoga and training along with my family life and work.  At least the yoga takes you to a very peaceful place.
On Friday morning I will have a "warm-up" swim session in the morning before my 5k open water swim on Saturday which will be my final open water practice before the 10k on the 14th.
My mind set is simple.  I've not swam 5 or 10k before but in my head I know I will complete the challenge.  I may visit dark places in my head but I'll just think of what I'll be writing in my blog to distract my mind.  I'm entering new territory and that's exciting.  After all, if I can swim 10k what's next?

Facing my fears

As you know swimming has always been my biggest challenge.  From my first 40m attempt in Strathaven 6 years ago to now getting ready for a 10k open water swim, it's been an interesting journey.  My greatest thrill and fear is when I am in open water and last night in Loch Lomond I started considering what I'd write in this blog, in order to control the other thoughts going on in my head.
Fear isn't rational. The bottom line is when you are in the water in a wetsuit if you get into trouble all you need to do is roll over on your back and you will float. It's that simple. There are no sharks in the water, especially Loch Lomond, and anything that is in there is probably wanting to stay away from you.  But even knowing all of that there are moments when the fear takes over.
Last night there were only 3 of us swimming in Loch Lomond.  There was a course marked out for the Great Scottish Swim so we decided to swim out to the furthest marker. We entered from the slipway to avoid the boulders at our usual entry point. This involved swimming over some weeds in the water which I'm not keen on but again for no good reason. There was a large rusting boat over to the right and I didn't want to look in that direction as I didn't want to see the hull under the water - too many disaster movies going through my head. There were waves hitting me head on at the beginning so it interfered with my breathing.  Soon I was 150m behind my colleagues and I began to think what would happen if I got into trouble - I certainly couldn't catch up with them. What I didn't know was they were keeping an eye on me but my mind was racing through the possibilities, none positive. As a result it's fair to say I wasn't swimming effectively. It's like a vicious circle.
But I started to change my thoughts. How privileged was I to be swimming in such beautiful surroundings. Would I rather be doing this or stuck in a traffic jam or waiting on a delayed plane or even worse lying I'll in hospital? I should be considering myself lucky. The water is so clean and is supporting my body. I started to work on my body position and glide through the water imagining I was a seal. Before I knew it I was at the far away turn point and met my 2 pals.
All the fear had gone. We agreed to swim across the course to other buoys and ended up zig zagging across the loch. The distance was immaterial and it seemed effortless. I felt wonderful, alive and happy as we cut across the loch. As we headed in I tried to ignore the big rusting boat and the weeds but was very aware of them.
Open water swimming is exhilarating and part of that is because it involves risk.  When I was in the middle of the loch I felt vulnerable but that was because I was allowing my fear to get to me. In reality being in my wetsuit with 2 strong swimmers nearby was all the protection I needed. You have to make sure you have the safety aspects covered and if you do then relax and enjoy the experience. In 2 weeks time I will be taking part in a 5k race as part of my preparation for my 10k swim the following week.  The challenge will be hundreds of swimmers having a punch up and some swimming over you so I just have to control my mind.  It's all a learning experience but despite my initial fears I know they will fade and I can relax and enjoy the freedom of my swim. I hope my thoughts will resonate with you and if you have similar fears, give you hope that it can be fun. Swim safe and enjoy.

Supporting role

This has been a good week for the swimming.  Big "k's" put in this week including an OW swim on Loch Lomond where I could have surfed the waves!  It wasn't nice but it had to be done.  On our triangular circuit I was being slapped on the right side on the outward leg, face on in the 2nd leg and the wave was coming over my head on the homeward straight.  The first lap was definitely the worst.  I had no rhythm and was probably lashing out at the water and dropped well behind my swimming partners.  When swimming on such a large expanse of dark water I don't like being left behind and that feeling of fear doesn't help your swimming.
By the second lap I was in "the groove" humming the theme tune to Hawaii 5 0 and that seemed to help until I remembered they had sharks out there.  This was one of those sessions you just had to do and will be good preparation should I come across conditions like that agian. 
One swimmer went in after 2 laps looking grey and feeling sea sick so that kind of confirms what it was like.  So 3 laps in and nobody felt like a 4th so off for fish and chips.
Today I had the privilege of being the support for the ATHelite relay team who were taking part in the Round Strathaven 50 race.  Conditions were tough and at times they felt like they were running in a wind tunnel. The 5 runners had different distances to run with different profiles and bad weather conditions to run in.  I made sure they got to the start of their leg and go them home.  They all "bust a gut" and I took the opportunity of taking pictures with my zoom lense.  This allowed me to see the pained expression in there faces as they gave everything and I felt so proud to be part of that team, even if I was just the driver.
I was meant to be running in the race by the old hammy ruled that out.  But it was inspirational watching them fight the conditions and give 100%.  Well done team ATHelite.  The runners were joined by cyclists and they really had to dig deep to cope with the wind.  But they did so, and a big well done to them too.  So even though I am not "inside the ropes" competing, by supporting I felt motivated to get sorted and get back out there.

Road to recovery

It's been an interesting week.  The good news is that I improved on my pool swim times from the previous week.  It just goes to prove that if you get in the pool and work hard you will get better/faster/fitter.  I came out of the pool knowing I was faster and feeling less tired.  I was so happy.
I was also happy having had the all clear on my neck from my chiropractor Gill Dingwall but she has recommended after my 10k swim I pay her another visit.  She suggested I may have a bit of tension in my neck & shoulders!
Then I went to see the physio (we can rebuild him!).  John is so laid back but I could see he was concerned that there was still swelling after 14 weeks.  He conducted a strength test on my hamstring - there wasn't any.  Weak as a new born lamb.  This is going to take time.  His view on what I should do differs from my consultant.  John would like me to keep the hamstring active with some cycling and running so I'm going to split the difference and start turbo training.  This should keep it active while not straining it.
I will also be doing some resistance exercises to help regain the strength in the hamstring.
On Friday night I had a good swim at Loch Lomond and was pleased with comments from other swimmers that I was swimming strong - thanks guys.  Only 34 days to go and I've booked a 5k race the weekend before just to have a "dry run" of a punch up with a load of others dressed in rubber.
However on Saturday I played golf and by the 15th hole was limping.  Who'd have thought golf was so physical on my hamstring?  It's really not feeling great so it's just as well I've pulled out of the 50 mile relay race next weekend.  team ATHelite will do great and I'll play a supporting role but not running.
The chances of me running the Ocean Floor Race (www.oceanfloorrace.com) in March 2015 are now almost nil but I am going to give it till the end of September before I make my final decision.  In the meantime I am going to shift the half a stone of "cruise excess" off my middle which I am very unhappy about.  But without more regular strenuous exercise it isn't easy.  But I like a challenge!

Swimming challenge

With swimming as my only training option (and yoga) I spoke to my coach in Canada and she put together a training schedule to try and get me fit enough to complete a 10km race in 6 weeks time.  I really haven't done enough swimming this year so getting back in the pool after 3 weeks off wasn't going to be easy - and it wasn't.  The total distance for the set was 3,000m which was a 50% increase on my longest swim this year.  But it had to be done.
500m warm up, 5 x 200m, 10 x 100m & 500 warm down.  All timed however my coaches targets were a bit ambitious as she had set them based on my Ironman time 2 years ago when I was in a lot better shape.  But now I've established the baseline I just need to get faster.  Having a programme to follow certainly got me focused.
The following day I went to Loch Lomond and swam3,600m.  Open water swimming is different and the wetsuit certainly makes it easier.  You have to overcome the fear that sometime sneaks into your head especially when you are swimming away from the shore and the water gets darker, deeper and colder.  Your mind can play tricks but mine was fully occupied as I was being given some tips from the club swim coach Nicola.  She was swimming next to me getting me to follow her cadence, trying to get me to slow down and be more efficient.  It worked and it also helped me relax in the water.
I'll be back in the water tomorrow as my schedule is to swim 4 days a week splitting my time between the pool and the open water.
I have also started to build in my yoga which will help the recovery of my hamstring and improve my core strength.  I've got an appointment booked with the physio later this week and am treating the swelling with heat & cold, twice a day.  Hopefully this will start to help the hamstring recover.

MRI Results

Today was "D Day" - time to visit the consultant to hear what his evaluation of my MRI scan was.  3 months ago I pulled my hamstring in the last 20 metres of a 53 mile ultra.  I took advice from my physio and have taken it easy using the bike and swimming to keep a reasonable level of fitness but I've always been aware my hamstring wasn't getting better.  There was still swelling behind and at the side of the knee and even walking up stairs I could feel it was far from right.  My concern was that I want to enter the Ocean Floor desert race in Egypt in March and have been accepted but I didn't wanted to pay the deposit until I had a positive verdict.  After all it's not an easy training schedule to get ready for 160 miles in 4 days across a desert.  I also want to enter other challenging races in the same season as I have been extremely frustrated missing out this summer.
The consultant gave me good news and disappointing news.  I've torn my hamstring and may be out for another 2-3 months depending on how I behave myself. No running. No cycling.  And swimming as long as I don't use my legs (no difficulty there then!). Back to some regular yoga and plenty of physio.
The good news, no surgery, no injections and I still have a running "career" as long as I sort it properly. So I now need to find a replacement runner for the 50 mile relay event in August, am unlikely to be ready for the 16 mile race in November and there's an outside chance I can take place in the 10k in November.  But I think my chances of completing a heavy training schedule to race in the desert in March is doubtful.  But it is still my goal and yoga is most likely what will get me there but I'm not going to endanger my long term goals by pushing the hamstring too hard.
Ironically swimming will be my main fitness focus but that makes me more determined to be fit enough for my 10km swim in 6 weeks time.  I am no where near being ready for the distance, I'm up to 2km, and it will be a real challenge.  But now my running and cycling is out, it has made me want to take this challenge on more as there is nothing else I can do (except for the yoga).
I'm fortunate that my hamstring isn't requiring surgery or that I'm being told I won't run again.  That would have been devastating as I have so many races I want to complete in the next ten years.  It also will make me "get my finger" out for the swimming.  I'm looking forward to acquiring a "swimmers shape" due to the amount of training I'll be doing.
But enough about me.  I can't leave without mentioning my 9 ATHelite Triathlon Club pals who all successfully completed the ironman distance Outlaw event at the weekend.  A mixture of ages, sizes and ability took on the toughest of challenges (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile run). I followed their progress during the day and they all had to dig deep.  I will use their performance as my inspiration in the coming weeks.  Well done guys.

Past one hurdle

Today I got my MRI scan.  Bloody noisy and scary that machine was.  Fortunately my whole body wasn't in the tube as it might have been a different experience if it had.  I meet the consultant a week tomorrow so I'll know about my future running "career" then. Fingers crossed.
I then went to the chiropractor.  Considering on Friday I couldn't move my neck, today full movement was restored.  I've been recommended to leave swimming for another couple of days but can start running, assuming my hamstring is ok, tomorrow so I've set my alarm for 5.30am.  I can't wait. So lets see how the running goes over the next week and then what the consultant thinks. 
On Friday I am going open water swimming.  I've got 7 weeks to get from 2k in the pool to 10k in a river - now there's a challenge!  It's not an ideal training schedule but I am determined to do it.  It's unbelievable to have my neck sorted. I feel normal and am going to appreciate every step of my run in the morning.

Another set back

Can't believe it. 3 days ago I woke up with a sore neck. The type you get when you have slept in the wrong position. I headed out for a run and completed my first 10km road run in 3 months. My neck didn't hurt but with hindsight it might not have been the smartes move as the pressure may have aggravated it.  My hamstring felt tight but the side of my calf felt worse. Especially on the uphills. Downhills were fine and by the end of a slow, 55 mins, 10 km I felt great.  It's good to be back, I thought.
I headed into work but as the day went on I was getting twinges, muscle spasms, in my neck and my movement became restricted - bit of a nervous car journey back home. I then had a horrendous nights sleep. I tried sleeping on my back to keep my head steady but the slightest movement was agony, instantly waking me up.  I knew I needed help and at 4am would have text my chiropractor Gill Dingwall (chiro+ in Kirkintilloch and the best in the business with her husband Ian) if I could have reached my phone beside my bed. I thought she might be able to see me 1st thing.  I met her at lunchtime and without laying a hand on my she could diagnose my problem.  In lay mans terms an acute cricked neck and I was walking like Frankenstien!
So no training for a week and I am having to sit supporting my neck on the couch watching the golf and cycling! Bored ridged and so frustrated as I need to get back in the pool to be ready for my 10 km swim in September.  I am now behind with my training so will see what shape I can get into in the next 6 weeks. Being realistic the swim event is in doubt but I am determined to get there and complete it.  It's my "A race" for the season.
MRI scan on Tuesday on the hamstring and probably see the consultant within a week.  My training is obviously set back but I have to let my injuries recover and then be sensible when I start back. It's frustrating but like yesterday's run, I am so looking forward to getting back out while it's still summer. I've missed 3 months of the best weather this year which is the same as last year as I was recovering from MdS.  Hopefully taking the enforced rest will help me when I eventually get back to full fitness.

holiday over - let the hard work start

Everyone needs a holiday.  A time to relax, catch up with the family and change the routine.  For the second year in a row we went on a cruise - 12 days of luxury.  I was amazed how tired I was and for the first five days was taking regular naps in the afternoon.  However I did get up at 7am and go running on a treadmill in the gym for 9 days - not something I'd normally do.  The hamstring responded well and I felt it got stronger although was well aware of it's limits.  I set myself targets on speed and distance and increased them every day.  However after my run I did some light weights and it's obvious the hamstring still has some way to go before I can put too much pressure on it.
Despite the exercise I put on half a stone!  The food is just so good and the cocktails I think contained a few calories as well!  It just shows what can happen when you relax and stop your training regime.  Looking round the ship you can see what lies ahead of you if you don't stay disciplined from a diet and fitness point of view.  It's not pretty and doesn't look healthy so if I needed any motivation to get back to proper training then that was it.
MRI scan on Tuesday then probably a week before I see the consultant but in the meantime back to some serious swimming, light running and cycling.  I will also be building up my yoga as that is definitely the way to reduce my chance of another injury.  Despite the drop in temperature and the rain, it's good to be back!

MRI Scan

Went to see the specialist and no surprise, he wants an MRI scan of my hamstring.  It will be in 3 weeks time so I will continue with my swimming, cycling, yoga and gym work while keeping the pressure off the hamstring.
He explained that hamstring injuries can rule you out for a year but I'm hoping that as I am mobile on it and it's just some swelling and lack of side ways stability, it should be OK in another month or so?
Anyway time for a wee break from the blog as the training reports are boring me never mind you.
I did read a fantastic and inspirational Ironman Nice report from my fellow athlete David Arthur.
There was a 2,700 swim start involving a large punch up, the bike course which is very technical and had thunder and lightening to contend with at the end.  He came off his bike just before transition and had a suspected broken arm but rather than go to the medical tent he did a PB on his marathon.  Now that is the type of attitude you need to be an Ironman.  Don't stories like that just make you want to get out there and do it?  Hamstring allowing of course.  Well done David Arthur.  A great example of what it takes to be an Ironman!

Out with a legend

My training schedule hasn't exactly been good this week.  I had a 2k swim on Monday but my next session was Friday where I struggled with a 1,500m swim.  On reflection I struggled with motivation as I had nobody else in the pool with me.  However since then I've found a 5k race to enter in August which will give me a target to keep me on track for September.
On Saturday I went out for a 2k jog.  The back of my knee was tight but I felt fine.  It's really only if mu leg twists that it hurts but the swelling at the side has made me book an appointment tomorrow with a specialist.  I need to know if I will be able to return to long distance running training as my scheduled desert race is in March and I need to start building the base miles.  But I don't want to be do any long term damage so better safe than sorry.  I'll let you know.
But today I went out for 2.5 hours on my bike and was accompanied by a local legend on the bike - a proper cyclist who could drop me with the blink of an eye.  Tony was looking for some company as was I and was happy to go at a 15mph average which was about my max at this time.  It was great to have company and especially one who is able to keep the pace as easily as he did.  My hamstring felt ok, a bit tight but no pain.  If I can keep this up then while my hamstring is recovering I will be getting my fitness back.  Hopefully I will be able to get back to running soon but lets see what the specialist says.
Finally I had a number of friends competing in various Ironman competitions in Scotland, France & Canada.  I watched their progress with pride having followed their training - it's great to see people who have worked hard get their rewards.  Well done Ironmen and Ironwomen!

Specialist required

This is the third year in a row I've had my "A race" early season.  Apart from not enjoying getting up in the pitch black mornings when the ice is on the pavements or the snow, hail or rain is horizontal as it's driven by a howling wind, I miss the company of my fellow athlete's who are now peaking for their Ironman race.  This means we are out of sync as I couldn't go out for a bike ride with them as they are doing 100 miles when I am doing 30 miles.  They are running 16 -20 miles when I am building from 1.2 miles as I come back from an injury.  Back in March I was running 20 miles and they were running 10 miles - you get my drift.
A visit to the physio this week was painful and depending on how my knee reacts in the next two weeks, may require a visit to a specialist to get a scan to see what the damage actually is.  As time has gone on the pain at the back of my knee has decreased but the pain round the side of my knee and the swelling has increased.  My 1.2 mile jog was enjoyable and really only to test the knee.  It felt fine in a straight line but I had to be careful about the length of stride as I could feel the tension at the back of the knee if I over stretched.  My chi running will come in handy here so I will start to slowly increase the distance and see how it reacts.  I'll stay off the trails until it's better as I feel any sideways movement won't be welcome and could set me back.
I've been accepted for the Oceans Floor Race in Egypt in March 2015, 160 miles non-stop in 4 days, but have told the organisers only once my knee is better will I confirm and pay my deposit.  This will give me a focus to my running training and I can't wait to get back to it while there is still some good weather.  I watched in amazement as three of my running pals completed the full West Highland Way, 95 miles, with the best time between them being 19 hours and 2 minutes!  Now that is seriously amazing and shows just how high the bar can be set if you hang around with such bad company! And when I get back from my holiday, where I will still be training, I must get back to my yoga because if anything is going to keep my "old legs" going, it's got to be yoga. 
And finally let's not forget with all this talk about running, I am preparing for a 10km swim in September.  I've got to keep this at the front of my mind as this is a real challenge and one I need to stay focused on and build up the miles.  It's not being made easy with the Commonwealth Games closing the 50m pool and the OW swim venue but I'll just need to improvise.  This morning I completed 2k in another 50 metre pool and I will continue to build on this over the coming weeks.

Putting things in perspective

It's been 7 weeks since I pulled my hamstring completing the 53 mile Highland Fling.  Fortunately it happened in the last 20 metres but unfortunately I am still unable to run.  I was scheduled to take part in an 70.3 Ironman next week but have had to pull out.  My first and hopefully last DNS (did not start).  The organisers have been very understanding and postponed my entry for a year which means I save my entry fee.  But I haven't been sitting still as I only have 13 weeks till my next challenge, The River Dart 10km swim and 2 of those weeks will be on a cruise where the opportunity to swim won't really be practical.
My training, until my hamstring heals, will be swimming, cycling and yoga.  On Wednesday I swam at Tollcross for the last time before it closed in preparation for the Commonwealth Games.  I was delighted when one of our group who is a swim coach complemented how my swimming was coming on.  It's always nice when your hard work is recognised but as a result I did a couple of extra sprints and later on I could feel my hamstring.  I'm booked into the physio on Thursday as I need to know what is causing the discomfort as I am doing what I've been told.
On Friday I went open water swimming and did 6 laps totalling 2,700m without stopping.  I felt comfortable in the water and the previous zig sagging was reduced although not completely.  I have to build the metres in the coming weeks as 10km is a big challenge.  After a tiring week I wasn't surprised to get a low score with an amber light on my HRV monitor so today I went out on my bike for 70 minutes mainly to work my hamstring.  Looking at my heart rate readings it's obvious that I'm tired so I've made the excuse it's Fathers Day and put me feet up, after my chores were finished! It was while resting I read in the Scotland on Sunday about Gordon Aikman, a 29 year old who has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease - literally a death sentence, he has less than 2 years to live.  Reading how he is handling it puts everything into perspective.  What an unbelievable attitude.  So I'm going to stop getting frustrated over a muscle pull and remind myself just how lucky I am to have my health.  Life can be snuffed out in the fraction of a second so make sure you make the most of the seconds we have and give our loved ones an extra hug tonight.

Zig zag zig zag!

It's been a really busy week domestically and work wise so the training has suffered.  That's not such a bad thing as my hamstring is showing signs of improvement and I recon another 2 or 3 weeks and I'll be able to start some light running.
On Wednesday I had an amber HRV reading which meant I reduced the intensity and length of my swimming session on Wednesday. On Thursday it was red which could have been down to a runny nose or the accumulated effect of 2 games of golf in as many days (doubt it) or a few too many glasses of wine (probably). But I do take the HRV readings seriously so didn't train till Friday night when I had my first open water swim in almost 2 years.
Strathclyde Park is where the Commonwealth games will be holding the triathlon and as a result they have cleaned up the water. It was not very pleasant before and not somewhere I would have chosen to swim. Waiting to enter the water I was talking to my friend Wilson Kane who was trying OW swimming for the first time and like everyone in that position, he was bricking it.  I got in the water with him and helped him relax. Little did he know it was for my benefit as much as his. I gave him some advice on sighting, looking ahead for the buoys, so he stayed on course and then I swam off.
At first I thought why are the other swimmers continually cutting across me. It took a while before I realised it was me zig zagging as I was forgetting to sight on a regular basis. Numpty! It was great to be back in OW, especially clean water, and this is the start of my training for September.
I met Wilson as he left the water and he was buzzing. He loved the freedom of the water and that reminded me just how exciting OW swimming is. Next time I'll take my own advice and look where I'm going!

Planning 2015 and beyond

It's been an interesting week as I ease my way back into training, making sure I don't have a set back with my hamstring. On Thursday I cycled to work which is 14 miles through the countryside with a number of inclines to make sure you work. I was so excited to be riding to work I forgot my laptop and my socks - doh! After work I had a light sports massage and apparently my hamstring is getting better and then peddled home. Still don't like the feeling round the side of my knee so I am being patient and not going out running even although I dreamt about it the other night.
On Friday I went swimming and was so pleased to have a training partner as that sure made me work harder than I would have done on my own.  I did a total of 2,500 metres without a pool buoy and my hamstring felt good. However my speed slowed down during the pyramid so I've a long way to go.  Next week should see me start my open water training.
Saturday was a glorious day and the ATHelite group were going out cycling but I'm not up to keeping up with them and knew my heart rate would have gone sky high so I decided to go solo. I set my garmin up only to give my heart rate and I concentrated on keeping that low. It felt fantastic cycling for 2.5 hours through the countryside and not chasing someone else's back wheel while breathing out my bum!
But today I decided to rest, catch up with some household chores (I don't do many!), and spent time planning 2015 and beyond. There are so many great races in the world but they take a lot of planning. My desert race in Nov 2015 has been postponed a year so I checked out the race they substituted it with - not for me. I'm now considering going back on my word (no more early season races to avoid winter training) and was checking out the ocean floor race. Check it out. Www.oceanfloorrace.com. It looks amazing, a real adventure and a tough challenge - 160 miles non-stop in 4 days.  I'm 99% certain this will be it and once decided the deposit will be paid and I will start preparing my training plan. I'm so excited just thinking about it but I mustn't rush back to running just yet. And there are more races in my sights for 2015 and beyond but let's get the first big one in the diary before I get carried away.

Back on the bike

Today was a bank holiday and my daughter arranged a joint horse riding lesson. It was great fun and I managed the rising trot without falling off the horse. But using my injured leg to control the horse was a different matter. It was lovely to watch my daughter ride around the arena as I could see the benefits of all the hard work she has put in to her technique. Like everything else, there are no short cuts.  I was pleased when I got off the horse as the hamstring was protesting.
So in order to give it a rest I went out with a couple of youngsters for 48km on the bike. I've hardly been on my bike for 2 years so it was tough. My heart rate was too high but I was trying not to hold my pals up too much. At hills they disappeared over the horizon leaving me puffing and panting. I've been here before so I was able to shut the chimp up.  I was giving 12 years to one of them and 30 years to the other. In addition they've been training all winter. These aren't excuses, they are both better and fitter cyclists but you have to put things into perspective otherwise you will beat yourself up.
Athelites peak at different points during the season and their training schedule will depend on the type and length of event they are focused on. It's important that we all remember this and keep focused on your own plan and goals and not be distracted by others. I really enjoy training with others but may need to do more cycling on my own for a while so I can complete the training within the most effective heart rate zone.

Recovering from an injury

It's said that the first objective of a long distance athlete is to get to the start line uninjured.  The second to be fit, the third to complete it and the forth to do it in a time you are happy with.  Until you injure yourself you don't tend to think about the first one too much.  Since injuring my hamstring 3 weeks ago, I have struggled with my inactivity but if I step just a fraction too far my hamstring sends me a sore message.  I'll wait and see what the physio says tomorrow but hopefully I am on the mend.
But I can't hang about.  I have a 10km river swim in September so on Tuesday I went back to the swimming training.  I hid in the slow lane and with the exception of 10 lengths, I swam with a pool buoy to take the pressure off the hamstring.  It was mentally tough watch people you would normally pass in the pool, passing me but I hadn't swam in about 6 weeks so what else should I expect.  I know that I have a month of hard work to get back to where I was so I'll shut the chimp in my head up and get on with it.
This morning I went to Tollcross where the Commonwealth Games will be taking place.  A 50m pool is completely different and I swan 1,500m trying to work on my technique but protecting the hamstring again.  If anyone saw me they wouldn't be wrong to say it was ugly swimming but I know I am going to get there over the coming months.  On Monday night I may even go for my first open water swim which in some ways fills me with dread but in others is exciting because you aren't constrained as you are in a pool - and no chlorine!
I am on the road to recovery and will use swimming as the main way of recovering my fitness while my hamstring gets better.  But I am also looking out for a new desert race in 2015 as the one I had scheduled has moved the date back a year.  So back to the drawing board.  As someone said today if you put in all those miles training you are always going to pick up an injury.  It's how you react to it that will make the difference to your season.  Take it easy out there folks!

Support role

My recovery is getting there. My hamstring is now good enough that I can walk and even run 50 metres which is a major break through. However I have a tightness around the side of my knee that will be connected to the hamstring so I'm off to see the physio next week. I don't want to rush and prolong the injury but I will be going back to swimming this week. Can't wait as I have a few pounds to shift as I have been over indulging.
Today was the Strathclyde Park Standard (Olympic) distance triathlon and team ATHelite were out in force. I was meant to take part in one of the relay teams but lucky for them my injury kept me out. As a result we won gold and silver and I am waiting confirmation we may also have got bronze. There were lots of good individual performances as well. I was able to watch through the lense of my camera and take pictures of my team mates as they gave it their all. I was able to shout out words of encouragement which I know from personal experience always acts as a boost. Especially when you're getting tired. It really put me in the mood for a triathlon as I just realised my last one was 2 years ago at Lanzarote, if I exclude the DNF at Aberfeldy which I have deleted from my memory.
So back to training this week and I can't wait. Better news to follow in my next report, I hope!

Endurance sports

For the last 6 years I have been building up to taking on endurance sports and challenges. It started in Set 2008 with a sprint triathlon in Nairn. It was a big deal at the time because I hadn't a clue. I borrowed a bike with clip ons which came as a bit of a shock especially at junctions, but it did make me go faster. I also discovered that if you don't get your pre race nutrition right you may face some discomfort leading to me wondering what end it was going to come out! Fortunately it didn't and you learn and move on.
Since then the challenges have got harder and after my latest, 53 mile ultra marathon the highland fling, I'm recovering from a hamstring injury - it went with 20 metres to go.
I'm taking it easy on the physio's instructions but that doesn't mean doing nothing.  Now 2 weeks in I can walk properly but have to be careful if I forget and go to run across a road - I very quickly stop as my hammy says so. No much good if you're in the centre of Renfield Street and the lights have changed to green! 'Cause when you start limping the drivers think you're having a laugh.
So my latest endurance challenge was a 4 day golf trip. The 30 degree heat in Portugal made me think of the MdS in the Sahara which was 45-52 degrees. I was able to cope with that without any problem. So to try and replicate what it felt like in the Sahara I joined in with my team mates drinking to silly o'clock in the morning to get the feeling of severe dehydration - it worked. So 3 nights of that certainly made lasting 5.5 hours on the golf course more challenging. To add to the challenge, while my team mates were having a long lie I got up early and went swimming which is part of my rehab for my hammy. I probably was over the drink driving limit for swimming but for some strange reason nobody else was there to see me wander across the imaginary lanes.
So now I have added golf to my list of endurance sports. My triathlete friends won't agree with this but they need to realise that the après golf and the daily temperatures need to be taken into account. I'm sure my Physio will be pleased with my profession rehab approach! Cheers. 😜

Outside "the ropes"

My recovery continues. The Physio was encouraging and I'm now walking better I.e. Without the aid of a Zimmer frame! I will be starting some short, light spinning to promote blood circulation and using a roller on my hamstring. Even if my hamstring injury hadn't happened today was the first green light on my heart rate variance monitor therefore I wouldn't have been training. The technology was telling me to rest.
But this weekend was a real treat. On Sunday I watched team ATHelite compete in the Bishopbriggs novice and sprint triathlon. I took my camera along and watched all my teammates give their all.  Watching it through the lense of the camera I could see how hard they were working and whether a first timer or experienced triathlete they pushed the limits. Being "behind the ropes" e.g. Spectator was great fun. I felt like I swam every stroke, rode up the tough hill and took every tough step in the run. I was knackered by the end.
But the great results and PB's weren't achieved without a lot of hard work. And mine will be starting in another 3 weeks. In the meantime I will be taking easy steps to get me back on track without leaving a legacy of a bad injury. Too many athletes make that mistake. Patience is a virtue, so they say.

Scientific experiment

In the last 6 years, since I've started all this training malarkey, I feel as though I've been putting my body through a scientific experiment. The type of training I am doing will dictate my shape. Ironman gave me big lat muscles and pecks which gave me some shape up top. MdS build up my quads and calfs with all the running as did the Highland Fling, so your body shape changes.
Now I'm injured with a pulled hamstring and my next goal is a 10km swim in September, I'll be changing again to bigger lats and pecks.
But I am going to take this opportunity of strengthening my core and improving my flexibility especially in my legs. Being injured isn't fun and while the muscle must have been fatigued, more yoga would probably have prevented it.
What's interesting is that my Heart Rate Variance monitor has been giving me exceptionally low (poor) red scores so even if I wasn't injured I wouldn't be training as my body needs time to recover. The strange thing is that with the exception of my hamstring, my legs feels great. Monitoring your heart, recording your time, watching what you eat - it's all an experiment and generally speaking I like the results.
Tomorrow I am visiting the physio as this hamstring is very sore. Any sudden movement has me doubled over in pain. So it's going to take time but here's hoping I will be back training on Monday in the pool and soon Lock Lomond. Got to keep going as there are so many different races/challenges I want to complete. It's great to feel and be alive.

The truth about running a 53 mile ultra

If you read my last blog you will have got a flavour of what went on but I think for those that are interested, you want the truth not the afterglow report.  So here it is.
Let's start with my training.  I ran all winter building up the mileage on trail runs as this was more like the conditions I would run in.  To simulate the fatigue I would run back to back long runs during the weekends, say 20 miles on the Saturday and 20 on the Sunday.  When your body and mind get used to longer distances, heading out for a 3.5 hour run is like going for a game of golf.
I spoke to many athletes who had completed the 'fling and picked their brains on hydration, nutrition and equipment. I ran 3/5ths of the course making sure I covered the most technical section so I knew what to expect on the day - that played a major part in my success.
The night before I had 3 of my MdS pals stay over and we ate pasta and shared our nervous thoughts about the day ahead which was new territory for us all.
The alarm went off at 3.15am and I got up to make their breakfast - porridge.  I had a last minute search for calf guards but couldn't find them so had to use new compression socks that I'd never worn before - that breaks a golden rule, don't race with anything new.  We got to Milngavie and I left my lubricant in the car and had to run back and apply it - I've seen too many nasty pictures of bad chaffing so wasn't going to be caught out there!  Lucky I did.
I knew my friends would be faster so I found a running partner who is a similar speed to me and his target was the same as mine; 12hrs 30 mins - 13 hours.  But within minutes of the race starting David was having breathing difficulties and told me to go on - we were only 5km into the race.  Fortunately he recovered and completed the race. I remember thinking that I had to keep the chimp in my head quiet as he did whisper a few thoughts along the lines of, 53 miles - that's a double marathon or how are you going to keep going for more than 12 hours?  I blocked that out and soaked up the atmosphere. At 8km I got a boost when a girl playing the fiddle stood by a gate and shared some Scottish music with us.  I felt so proud to be Scottish at that moment and wondered what all the foreign runners were making of the occasion and the stunning scenery.
At 10km I won the lottery. I noticed a runner with an IM tattoo and we got talking.  It turned out Will and his pal John had both completed 2 Ironmen competitions and a shorter ultra.  But they didn't know this route so picked my brains.  They seemed happy to "walk the hills" which is something you do on ultras and were aiming for a similar time so we decided to run together.  We reached Drymen which was a water stop only in 2hrs 3minutes which was slightly ahead of target but I felt great. ATHelite president Mark Russell was shouting encouragement which was welcome.  I knew the next section was going to be tough as it went up Conic Hill.  We continued with our mantra of "walking the hills" and I made sure we all wore our waterproof jackets as it got cool as we climbed.  There was low cloud at the top so we didn't get to see the wonderful view of Loch Lomond until we were heading down.  The boys were stunned by the view and then I informed them we'd be running as far as they could see -  a sobering thought.  We took our time coming down the hill as your quads could be destroyed by the bottom.  At Balmaha I collected my food bag, filled up my bottles with High 5 and walked on eating a banana, hula hoops and a fudge -fuel was  going to be critical.  I had also taken 2 gels for later. Balmaha to Rowardennan takes a long time.  It just keeps going on and on but I knew to expect this so didn't let it get to me.  My spirits were lifted by a fellow ATHelite member John Young passing me.  He was running the relay and gave me some words of encouragement which were welcome.
As we approached the Rowardennan car park, 5 hrs 21 minutes there was a big crowd and the cheered us in.  I actually felt like a super star at this point, it was such a lift.  Lee McLean who is a friend and was marshalling handed me a cup of coffee which I grabbed and swallowed almost in one go - caffeine gives you a boost.  More bananas, peanuts, filled bottles and off to face a couple of big climbs.  I kept the boys back by explaining the terrain that was coming and Will mentioned we had just completed a marathon.  I didn't want to hear this as I was treating this as a "long training day".  I didn't want to think about hitting the wall.
Rowardennan to Inversnaid starts to get technical with tree routes and large stones becoming dangerous.  Every step is a potential ankle break so much of this section is done with your head down.  That's why I didn't see the big tree branch at head height which almost felled me - ouch!  Stupid thing is someone had told me about it the night before but your concentration is on where your feet are landing.  I was starting to hurt on this section.  My right ankle protested every time it landed, I felt a hot spot on my left foot and my left calf muscle was warning me there could be trouble ahead. But pain is something you expect and "welcome" because it means you're getting through the miles.
Inversnaid was a welcome sight but there were only a couple of marshalls there due to it's location.  I was looking forward to a bottle of flat coke that was in my bag because I knew I needed some "rocket flue" - all part of the planning.  Johnny the race director helped me apply a compeed to my hot spot and kept our spirits up - by this stage I couldn't bend my legs!  He warned us that the next 3 miles were the toughest in the race.  I knew this but having it come from him just reaffirmed how careful we needed to be as our legs were tired.  Narrow paths with rocks and tree routes made the pace drop below walking speed.  At times it involved scrambling or lowering yourself down.  This was a really tough total body workout and the stiffening leg muscles weren't happy.  But this is where the long back to back runs came in handy.  I was used to the fatigue.
I was now heading into unchartered territory and Bein Glass farm.  I had been warned that this is where people lose it mentally but I didn't mention this to the boys.  I just kept the chat going which was a great distraction from the pain and I didn't want to think of the mileage.  One runner had been passing us and then we passed him.  He said something which John didn't like, I think this was more about us all being tired, and he was determined to get past him for good.  We dropped him before Bein Glass but he left before us as we faffed over our food - more flat coke for me but I really wasn't interested in food but packed some more gels and a sports bar.  John wanted to chase him but I said we had lots of time to over take him - we were now 9hrs 17 minutes into the race and I knew, this is where it was going to push us to the limit.
We had a lot of climbing to get out of Bein Glass and the chat dropped off as we all went into our own heads.  We dropped the target runner and he informed me he was "burst".  It had cooled down so we had the waterproof jackets on again as there was a bit of a wind.  Then we found "cow pat alley".  Literally a shit hole that stretches out for hundreds of metres and we all picked our way through it without falling flat in our faces.
The final few hours were involved in tough climbs with even harder descents.  On the way down our legs were shot to bits.  Every step hurt and my ankle, hamstrings and quads were screaming at me to stop.  My legs were out of control on the downhills and all I was trying to do was stay upright and not break my ankle on the loose rocks.  Every so often I'd stumble or kick a rock which would be agony especially on my hamstrings.  We'd walk the hills, stumble down the hills and shuffled on the flats.
I explained to the boys that they should have a picture of what the finish line will look like.  I suggested we all cross the line together holding our hands above our heads.  Having this picture gave us something to focus on.
We met one runner who was "out of fuel" and really struggling.  I gave him my sports bar and he was so grateful - it probably gave him enough to get to the finish line.  Food is fuel.  A marshal informed us we had 4.75 miles to go so we knew we'd make it but wanted to push on and get under our target of 12hrs 30 mins.
There was a lot of shuffling in the final few miles.  Our pace was down to just over a fast walk but our legs were shot to pieces.  Mentally the chimp hadn't visited and I put this down to my preparation and having company to run with.  With 500 metres to go I checked how far behind the next runner was as I didn't want our finishing picture ruined.  So we quickened up.  As we came into the finish area we could hear the bagpipes and I fought back the tears.  After all the winter training here I was with 2 new mates about to complete one of the top 10 toughest unsupported runs in the world.  We got into the final straight, we joined hands and raised them above our heads.  we could see friends shouting encouragement as we approached the red carpet.  The final 20 metres and BANG!  My left hamstring goes.  I felt as though someone had shot me and my leg collapsed from under me.  But fortunately I was with 2 rugby players so they kept running while holding me up.  Not exactly the picture I had in mind but it was in 12 hrs 16 minutes - result.
The marshal gave me a seat, a medal, someone took off my timer and then I was helped through to the medical tent.  Ice was strapped onto my hamstring while the ATHelite president Mark Russell went and got my finishing bag, some soup and a beer.  I was wrapped in a foil and an blanket and then my pals all started taking pictures of me - you didn't expect sympathy did you?
I hobbled 400 metres to my accommodation and curled up in a ball feeling like shit. My pals arrived with my clothes and I got cleaned up. I limped up the road to get some food, a beer then bed.
What an amazing adventure.  The organisation was amazing.  The people couldn't have been any more helpful.  The crowds so supportive.
I've just had it confirmed that I am out of running or cycling for 4-6 weeks which means I have to pull out of 2 races which is disappointing.  However this will allow me to focus on my swimming which is important as I have a 10km river race in September. Completing the Highland Fling is a major achievement for me.  I pushed the barrier to a new level and realised I can go further.  Preparation is everything be it physical or mental.  Thanks for following me on the journey.  It will continue with my hardest goal of this year -  the river swim.  there's more to come folks!

Conquering The Highland Fling

The 'fling is finished. What an experience. Possibly the best organised race I have ever taken part in. A huge congratulations to the organisers, marshals and medical staff - more of that later.
Who considers running a 53 mile race? One that is in the top 10 hardest unsupported races in the world? Well that's what happens when you hang out with "bad company". Athletes that don't have limits. I had the pleasure of getting together with my pals from tent 127 in the 2013 Marathon des Sables. We hadn't seen each other in a year but it was like yesterday. We had a blast.
If you think about 53 miles, double marathon plus a wee bit, you wouldn't do it. Especially if you look at the profile of Milngavie to Tyndrum - some big climbs and as I found out, some harder decents!
Loads of nervous excitement at the start. I wasn't going to run with my MdS pals as they were too fast. But I bumped into a running partner and we were the same pace. So David ran with me for the first 5k but wasn't feeling well so sent me on my way. I thought he was finished. 2k on there was a girl playing a fiddle in the middle of nowhere and everyone seemed to pick up their pace. This was giving the overseas competitors a flavour of the fling - a great advert for Scotland.  3k later I meet a runner with an ironman tattoo and we got chatting. This was a lucky break. Will and his friend John were up from England and didn't know the course. I knew 3/5ths of it and had run ultra marathons before so we decided to run together. We kept each other going and I can honestly say that the "chimp" didn't make an appearance because we were supporting each other.  I may have met other people on route but meeting Will and John was fantastic - thanks guys.
It sounds ridiculous but this race is all mental I.e. In between your ears. I had planned every step, every stage, every food stop and hoped it would go to plan. Therefore I knew the pace I needed to run to achieve my target of 12.30 - 13 hours. But in truth I had no idea if it was possible. So much could go wrong like the girl who "face planted" a rock and broke her jaw in 5 places. With help, she ran on to the next checkpoint along the most technically difficult part of the course - respect.
I had planned my food stops but as time went on it became difficult to eat.  I started to dig deep into my reserves. My body began to ache but we kept pushing on. The encouragement from the Marshall's was incredible. The supporters cheered and at times it was quiet emotional. Getting close to the end was really tough but the steep downhills on shattered quads was excruciatingly painful. It was as though I had no control over my legs.
1 mile out I tripped, again, over a rock and my hamstring took the strain. I had told Will and John early on that they should picture the finish line picture in their heads. As we approached we agreed that we'd run across the line together holding our hands up in the air. As we ran down the red carpet we joined hands and raised them above our head. 20 metres to go and someone shot me in the hamstring with a rifle! Bang! I almost collapsed but my new best pals were strong buggers and kept my arms in the air as I struggled to get across the line - hamstring gone. Greeted by the medics, carried to the tent, leg iced, foil blanket on and hot soup followed by beer. The ATHlete president Mark Russell ran around like my personal butler making sure I was ok - thanks Mark. Later I limped to my accommodation and curled up in my foil blanket feeling like shit. Shivering like a slapped jelly. My MdS pals delivered my clothes, I had a shower, followed by food and beer. Even better David who looked like death warmed up at 5k made it in 30 minutes after me - respect. And my pal, type one diabetic Roddy Riddle had his insulin pump fail after 18 miles and survived on water only while beating me by 90 minutes - respect. There are so many amazing stories in this race I really haven't scratched the surface. But what I do know is that it's amazing what you can do if you dare to try. For me it's a major achievement. I very deliberately treated it as a long training day (thanks Gen & Colin for that advice years ago) with fabulous scenery. A fellow ATHelite And relay runner John Young passed me at 24 miles and said I looked fresh. Thanks for that but maybe if I'd known it was 24 miles I would have shown it. And to answer your question, my time was 12 hours 16 minutes. I'm suitable chuffed. But the highlight for me was the journey. Thanks for your support. Now pass me the fucking wine. 😃

Calm before the storm

When I was planning my 2014 season my "A race" was the 10km swim in September.  A worthwhile challenge I thought.  But as time went on I realised it was too far out with nothing in between.  That's why I decided to run the 53 mile Ultra Marathon The Highland Fling which is now less than 24 hours away.  I am so glad I did put this in the diary as it has meant a serious winter training schedule which I wouldn't have had otherwise.  I'm in good shape and it will be the platform to build on for the other races I have entered which are all before my "A race".
But now is the calm before the storm.  The trainings done, I've followed my nutrition plan, my Heart Rate Variance scores have been improving daily this week so all I need to do is pack my kit, carb load tonight and try to get some sleep before my 3.30am rise.
I have a race plan in my head but am experienced enough to know it can go "tits up" at any time and it's how you react at this point that will determine the outcome.  The exciting part about going this distance is it takes you to a place you don't visit very often.  The hurt locker will be visited, dark crevasses in my mind will be explored and my mental toughness will either make or break me.  It's not every day you face those kind of challenges and I am looking forward to it because it's been a year since I have been there.
I'd just like to thank everyone that follows my blog or tweats.  It means a lot to me that you take an interest and sometimes get inspired to push yourself to new limits.  Thanks to my fellow training partners and ATHelite members who are a constant source of inspiration and support. And finally to my long suffering family for all the hours I spend training, talking about training, talking about races, talking about food and the endless soggy lycra that needs washed!  Thanks for your patience and support.  You know I'd be a complete pain in the ass if I didn't take part in these challenges and it has raised a lot of money for Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres along the way.  See you all when I get back from Tyndrum! :-)