"Don't panic Mr Mannering!"

 "Don't panic Mr Mannering".  That quote takes me back to my childhood and Dad's Army on the one of 3 available channels at the time.  So for my younger readers, google the quote for more background information.
But why would I be panicking?  I'm not but I am drawing on all my experience of training over the years to stay calm!  Managed properly, this will come good.
In short the Manchester Marathon is 6 weeks away and my training is behind for the reasons previously reported on.  You don't get to my age without some wear and tear and whilst I might think I'm tough, sometimes you have to listen to your body.  Most people turn up at races and complain about being behind but I'm not feeling in shape for a fast marathon.  But a lot can happen in 6 weeks so I will keep the focus on my training and staying healthy and try not to fall over - again.
As you know I've never considered myself an athlete, just an ordinary guy pushing myself to the limit while enjoying amazing adventures.  But the winter months aren't the best conditions to train in and snow is forecast next week.  I think I've spent too much time on tarmac and am bored but on Saturday Beth & I had a wonderful trail run that made us both smile.  It was a blue sky and running through the trees energised us.  That, and time up the mountains is what we enjoy the best.  It gives you head space, fresh air and an amazing perspective on life.  It's such a privlege to be to run in those surroundings.
Ultra running is also about the people you meet.  There is no typical ultra runner but a few characteristics they have is they are friendly, helpful, don't have a big ego and always have fascinating stories about their adventures around the world.  Good people to be around.  I come alive in that environment and can't wait till June when I have my first ultra - the 58km Full Tilt Ultra.
But until then there are more miles to be run on tarmac.  Today I went back to Strathaven to run with my coach Craig and some old friends Rosie & Stewart and some new friends.  I'd forgotten how tough the hills around Strathaven were but it was a good 16km to build on the trail run the day before of 16km.  My fitness is lacking but I'll get back there so "Don't panic Mr Mannering".  Manchester here we come.