If 2016 proved anything it was expect the unexpected, don't believe the polls and that miracles do happen. But in case you think I am going to stray into politics, forget it. My highlight of 2016 was Leicester City winning the English Premiership. At odds of 50,000 - 1 it was nothing short of a miracle and one that was good for the game and the romantics of the world.
Today I witnessed the Australian Tennis Open final between two "old timers" Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal. Roger had 17 grand slams to his name and Rafa 14. Now as an ex professional tennis coach I know a thing or two about the game but when the tournament started this was not the predicted final.
The 5 set match was a nail biting classic played to a sell out crowd watched by no less than the legend Rod (Rocket) Laver, an 11 time grand slam holder, in the stadium named after him. The point of my story is that 6 months ago both Federer and Nadal were injured and nobody was predicting this come back. But they both believed they would make it back and worked so hard to get their bodies and minds into shape. During the tournament the youngsters fell away, including Andy Murray, and in the final the level of skill, physical strength, mental toughness and mutual respect for each other was off the charts. In one utterly stunning rally that Nadal played a cross court squash shot to beat Federer, and without hesitation Federer applauded Nadal and looked him in the eye to show his respect.
So I've taken a few lessons from this match. These gladiators both wanted to win - it only came down to a few points in the end, but they remained respectful to each other and the game. They gave everything they had on the day and despite being out of the game through injury they got themselves back in shape to compete at the highest level because they have a will to be the greatest ever tennis player in history - currently Federer is but had he lost the gap in grand slams would have reduced to 2 instead of 4. They defied the odds, nobody predicted this final at the start of the tournament because they had been injured and they are getting on with a group of talented youngsters taking centre stage. But not today. So I will use this match to inspire me to get over my chest infection and get back to full fitness . I'll defy the odds and make 2017 an outstanding season. And if miracles do come true then maybe Bruce Willis will appear and save the world!
Sunday, 29 January 2017
Monday, 23 January 2017
It's never straight forward!
I started blogging while preparing for an Olympic Triathlon back in 2009. Back then I thought that distance, due to the 1 mile open water swim, was almost impossible. The purpose of the blog was to act as a journal for me so I could look back on the highs and lows of the journey. I never imagined that 8 years later I'd still be writing it and loads of people read it every week! It helps to know that others are following my journey, especially as there have been some amazing adventures along the way and probably the biggest challenge is happening in 245 days time - www.grand2grandultra.com.
But like life itself, it's never straight forward. Having declared last week that my "partying" was over I have immediately come down with a stinking chest infection which is doing the round - maybe the alcohol had kept it away? It's completely floored me with 3 days off work last week, a weekend in bed and I don't think I'll be heading into the office tomorrow. So the intended training is completely out of the window.
I'm not letting it "get to me" as I know that training with a chest infection is a no no. I'll have to start building my training up slowly and better to get to the start line not fully trained rather than injured or dead! Multi-stage races are obviously very physical and the Canyon is no different as it will involve running at altitude, high temperatures, climbing and steep descents. One badly placed foot in 170 miles could lead to the end of the adventure. However it's what goes on between my ears that will determine my success and that is something I can practise while coughing up green balls of gunk!
To help my mind I have skimmed back through my blog to some stand out events such as been told in my early days by an arrogant swim coach that I "wasn't" trying" - I think he learned something that day! Then there was my 108 Sun Salutations as I prepared for the Sahara Desert - that was probably the toughest training session ever. Running The Great Glen, 79 miles over 2days in January 2013 taught me how to handle the "long stage" of the MdS 52 miles despite almost getting hypothermia at the end. Going through the blog while I'm feeling like shit has actually been encouraging because life isn't straight forward. I love the Chinese saying that success is falling down 7 times and getting up 8. Here's to getting back up.
Sunday, 15 January 2017
It's over!
It's over. Don't try and persuade me otherwise. I've had enough. My last official "blow out" was on Friday 13th at my nieces wedding (which was amazing!) so yesterday was a recovery day on the couch and today a recovery run. But all this socialising has to stop. It can't go on or else I'll pile the weight on, become more sluggish, despondent, demotivated, increase my chances of serious illness and not be at my best for my family ot work. So it's definitely over.
I have goals I want to achieve in my two 70.3 Ironman events which should get my fitness to a decent level without injury. Once the second one is over then the running mileage will really step up as will the hill walking, hill climbing and mountain running. So with such exciting goals lined up getting back to a healthy lifestyle should be easy.
I do have some holidays lined up but I will adapt the training while I am away. Training when not working is such a privilege and you notice the difference, you're not so tired.
Today's run at Chatelherault was a solo effort but I did meet various friends on route. My pace was reasonable taking account of my lack of regular running and it should just get better from here. A lot of hard work ahead but it will be worth it. I hope if you made a new year resolution that you are sticking to it? If not get your running shoes on and get out there. Life if for living not sitting on your arse!
I have goals I want to achieve in my two 70.3 Ironman events which should get my fitness to a decent level without injury. Once the second one is over then the running mileage will really step up as will the hill walking, hill climbing and mountain running. So with such exciting goals lined up getting back to a healthy lifestyle should be easy.
I do have some holidays lined up but I will adapt the training while I am away. Training when not working is such a privilege and you notice the difference, you're not so tired.
Today's run at Chatelherault was a solo effort but I did meet various friends on route. My pace was reasonable taking account of my lack of regular running and it should just get better from here. A lot of hard work ahead but it will be worth it. I hope if you made a new year resolution that you are sticking to it? If not get your running shoes on and get out there. Life if for living not sitting on your arse!
Sunday, 8 January 2017
Chipping away
The first week back at work is always tough, even if it is only 3 days! Early rises and long days but I've managed to have everything set up for the rest of the year.
Training wise I made it to the gym. I'm not a gym bunny but I do need to increase the strength in my legs to cope with the training mileage. I'll have to improve my upper body strength as part of the event includes climbing using ropes but I need to get over my shoulder injury first. Add to that altitude and heat and it's going to be a tough 6 days in the Grand Canyon. But I've just been handed a big advantage. Last year I was asked to deliver a talk to some university students about the training for the Marathon Des Sables (MdS), the nutrition and the race itself. They have asked me back again and as a reward they have offered me time in a heat and altitude chamber - BOOM! So no need to head off to the alps when I can conduct some training 7 miles from my house!
On Saturday I went for my usual lap of Chatelherault but it wasn't good. Short of breath and high heart rate isn't a good combination so I needed to slow down. I felt terrible by the end of the run but I know I have to go through this period. It's not easy and I'm looking forward to getting through this painful period - the canyon seems a long way away however it is only 258 days away.
Today I decided to go out running on my own and on the road rather than the trail. I'm not sure if when running with others I am going out too fast which causes the problem, other than too much indulgence in the last 4 months! I also decided not to look at my Garmin during the run. Just run at a pace I was comfortable with but also increase the distance. The route is a hilly one so 16.33 km (more than double Saturdays run) was a challenge, more mental than physical but I did it at a reasonable pace. According to my Garmin I need to rest tomorrow so I will, but more regular runs are required to "chip away" at the mountain of training that lies ahead. I suppose if this was easy then everyone would do it. That is what will make it all worthwhile!
Training wise I made it to the gym. I'm not a gym bunny but I do need to increase the strength in my legs to cope with the training mileage. I'll have to improve my upper body strength as part of the event includes climbing using ropes but I need to get over my shoulder injury first. Add to that altitude and heat and it's going to be a tough 6 days in the Grand Canyon. But I've just been handed a big advantage. Last year I was asked to deliver a talk to some university students about the training for the Marathon Des Sables (MdS), the nutrition and the race itself. They have asked me back again and as a reward they have offered me time in a heat and altitude chamber - BOOM! So no need to head off to the alps when I can conduct some training 7 miles from my house!
On Saturday I went for my usual lap of Chatelherault but it wasn't good. Short of breath and high heart rate isn't a good combination so I needed to slow down. I felt terrible by the end of the run but I know I have to go through this period. It's not easy and I'm looking forward to getting through this painful period - the canyon seems a long way away however it is only 258 days away.
Today I decided to go out running on my own and on the road rather than the trail. I'm not sure if when running with others I am going out too fast which causes the problem, other than too much indulgence in the last 4 months! I also decided not to look at my Garmin during the run. Just run at a pace I was comfortable with but also increase the distance. The route is a hilly one so 16.33 km (more than double Saturdays run) was a challenge, more mental than physical but I did it at a reasonable pace. According to my Garmin I need to rest tomorrow so I will, but more regular runs are required to "chip away" at the mountain of training that lies ahead. I suppose if this was easy then everyone would do it. That is what will make it all worthwhile!
Sunday, 1 January 2017
Reboot:2017
Happy New Year to you all. The start of any new year is usually met with optimism, it's going to be better than last year and it certainly going to be a big year for me as I continue with Mission Ironman - raising money for Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres. But before I lay down my plans for 2017 I think it is always worthwhile reflecting on the previous year, what was achieved and what was learned along the way.
Overall 2016 was a great success. I had a PB in my 70.3 Ironman and a PB in my "A" race, Ironman Frankfurt. So on the surface everything went well and I am pleased with the results. But that is why you have to do a deeper review. A pulled hamstring meant I couldn't run before IM for 5 weeks and this is a recurring injury so I have to get that sorted. Strengthening and stretching are required so my training schedule will take this into account as this years "A" race will require increased strength not only in my hamstrings but my core and upper body. Falling ill 6 weeks out from IM couldn't be prevented but it reminded me that when pushing my body to the limit in training, I need to look after myself with good food, nutrition and rest. After Ironman I then went on to a PB in:
1- eating food
2- drinking alcohol
3- putting on weight
I've been doing a little training, mainly running, in the last 3 months but it hasn't been enjoyable. Carrying a "front rucksack" has slowed me down and increased my heart rate - "no shit Sherlock" I hear you say. So my first goal is to shed the excess weight and get back to a proper training regime monitored and motivated by my amazing coach.
As for 2017 I have two 70.3 Ironman competitions in May and July. These are in the calendar to ensure I cross train and avoid injury - plus I love that distance of IM. You can push yourself without the time commitment required for the full Ironman distance.
My "A" race is the Grand to Grand Ultra - (www.g2gultra.com) - 170 in 6 days unsupported up and down the Grand Canyon. It will involve rope climbing and steep descents so I will need to be strong and flexible.
It's exciting having goals (not New Year resolutions because they don't work!) for the coming year and I look forward to sharing my journey with you. Today started with a 10km run and having not had any alcohol last night, I felt fantastic. Reboot 2017 has started!
Overall 2016 was a great success. I had a PB in my 70.3 Ironman and a PB in my "A" race, Ironman Frankfurt. So on the surface everything went well and I am pleased with the results. But that is why you have to do a deeper review. A pulled hamstring meant I couldn't run before IM for 5 weeks and this is a recurring injury so I have to get that sorted. Strengthening and stretching are required so my training schedule will take this into account as this years "A" race will require increased strength not only in my hamstrings but my core and upper body. Falling ill 6 weeks out from IM couldn't be prevented but it reminded me that when pushing my body to the limit in training, I need to look after myself with good food, nutrition and rest. After Ironman I then went on to a PB in:
1- eating food
2- drinking alcohol
3- putting on weight
I've been doing a little training, mainly running, in the last 3 months but it hasn't been enjoyable. Carrying a "front rucksack" has slowed me down and increased my heart rate - "no shit Sherlock" I hear you say. So my first goal is to shed the excess weight and get back to a proper training regime monitored and motivated by my amazing coach.
As for 2017 I have two 70.3 Ironman competitions in May and July. These are in the calendar to ensure I cross train and avoid injury - plus I love that distance of IM. You can push yourself without the time commitment required for the full Ironman distance.
My "A" race is the Grand to Grand Ultra - (www.g2gultra.com) - 170 in 6 days unsupported up and down the Grand Canyon. It will involve rope climbing and steep descents so I will need to be strong and flexible.
It's exciting having goals (not New Year resolutions because they don't work!) for the coming year and I look forward to sharing my journey with you. Today started with a 10km run and having not had any alcohol last night, I felt fantastic. Reboot 2017 has started!
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