Happy New Year!

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Happy New Year my little blogglings :-)

I wish everyone who reads my blog a very happy , healthy and prosperous New Year and here is to 2011 filled with love, laughter, joy and triumphs.

Slainte Mhath!

Kimbles
~x~x~

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Hello My Little Blogglings

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Well its been awhile since I posted.  Probably because I dont have much to say - which is very unlike me.  Training has been sporadic lately.  I went great guns 2 weeks ago with my running and gym work and then last week I did hee haw!!  Started back again on Sunday and have managed 10 miles this week running (Sunday and Tuesday) and one gym session on Wednesday.  Helped AJ move some stuff to her flat on Thursday so had a workout howfin stuff up 3 flights of stairs!!!  Tomorrow I shall attempt a gym session late afternoon after helping her move stuff again.  I was supposed to run the Jimmy Irvine Achilles Heel Bella 10K on Saturday but the geriatric hip is playing up.  Eventually got my physio appointment for Monday so hoping once and for all I can get this injury put to bed.  Will update the results after the appointment.

Cheeri for now ;-)

Kimbles
~x~x~

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Welcome Back To My Mojo :-)

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Well I think I can say now that my mojo has finally returned - yay!  I've been struggling for the past couple of weeks - nah months, trying to get myself back into a running state of mind.  This week has been good.  I forced myself to go back to the gym and take up my training plan again.  I actually enjoyed it and this may have what kick started my mojo.  Tuesday I managed to head out for a nice paced 3 miler and felt great when I reached home.  Wednesday it was back to the gym and Program 2 of my workout.  Again this was a satisfying one but was worried that I was going to be super stiff the next day.  When I woke up on Thursday, my hamstrings and butt muscles didnt feel too bad and I planed to head out for another run.  However by late afternoon, the dreaded stiffness set in and I wrestled with the notion of going out or putting it off till Friday.  I never gave in to rescheduling to Friday and pulled my trainers and kit on and headed out.  

Oh dear, the leg muscles were stiff and tired.  However after about 0.5k, they eased up and I didnt feel the stiffness during the run.  Another 3 miler under the belt but I can tell you I suffered all Thursday night and Friday lol.  Friday was a definate rest day for me :-)  Saturday will be gym workout and Sunday will be my first "long run " in weeks! Can't wait :-)


Kimbles
~x~x~

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St Andrew's 10k Road Race

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Well the day of my 10k race dawned dull, miserable and WET!!  Please note the emphasis on wet!  I had obviously come to the end of my lucky streak of running races in dry weather :-s

I have to say that I had been struggling all week as to whether I actually wanted to do this race and waking up to miserable weather didnt do anything to alleviate that.  I also woke up feeling a bit chesty and thought "great the cold is coming on".  However, I had promised my mate that I would run it.  So I got up, showered, put my running kit on, ate breakfast and trudged out to the car thinking "why at this ungodly hour on a Sunday do I torture myself?".  The drive to Strathclyde Park takes an hour from where I live, so I entertained myself listening and singing along to Galaxy radio (its a good thing I was in the car myself lol).  I arrived at SCP and parked in the furtherst car park from the race start - go figure!  So Nike+ on, Polar watch strapped on (I like my gadgets) and zipped up in my "dont knock me down" hi-viz rain jacket, I headed off for the Watersports Centre.  There were a few fair people about and while I waited for Cazza to turn up, I headed to the ladies room. I met Cazza on the way back from the loos and we waited until we were signalled to head to the start.  On the way I muttered that "I wasnt feeling the love for this race" but when the gun went off I duely started trotting along with Cazza at my side.  Wasnt long before she headed off on her own though lol. 

Medal & Bib Number

Low and behold, the rain dried up to a meagre drizzle and then went off altogether.  Maybe my running luck was still with me :-D.  We headed off up the side of the lake for the first 2k and then headed up onto the road, round past M&D's and then followed the road round to the entrance - this was about 4k long.  When I got to the 5k mark, I had this very surreal feeling that I was running like a well toned athlete.  Now let me assure you very quickly here that I am nothing of the kind - I just had this feeling of being fantastic lol.  Maybe it was wishful thinking, cause I certainly wasnt feeling it with all the coughing and clearing of the throat going on.  The 6k mark took us round the back of the Watersports Centre and we headed back out towards the lake path to do another 2km before heading back along the same path and then down by the car parks - dodging the big scary looking swans on the way.  They were wandering around looking menacing!!  I was about 500m from the end when Cazza appeared and asked if I was okay (she had already finished).  "Nothing left in the tank" was my reply but I managed a meagre sprinty type finish to the line.

After the race, Cazza happened to mention that she had an very surreal experience at the 5k mark.  Sound familiar?  We both looked at each other with shock as we realised we both had the same feeling *cue Twilight Zone music* lol. 

10k race was completed in 67m 11 s which was better than my GSR time.  So I might be on the road to improvement if I get my sorry butt back into training.  The next race on the agenda is the Jimmy Irvine Achilles Heel Bella 10K, although I haven't made my mind up about this one yet.  Will see how I feel in the next few weeks once I get back into a training plan ;-)  I will probably do the St Andrews one again next year as I like the course and by that time I might be race fit again *haa haa*

Kimbles

~x~x~

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Sigh Of Relief :-)

Well today was the day to find out whether I had made the ballot for the VLM (Virgin London Marathon)!

When the magazine hit the doormat, I was filled with apprehension.  Did I make it in or would I be unlucky.  The answer was that I was unlucky this year.  I did breathe a huge sigh of relief when I seen this though and you maybe asking why when I had applied in the first place?  Well the answer was simple.  I did it in a moment of madness after watching the 2010 race and also with the knowledge that so many thousands of people would be entering that it would be a slim chance I got in.  I have to say that I felt better that I had been rejected as I knew in myself that I wasnt ready to a)put in the 6 months training over the winter months with everything that had been going on b)I havent completed a half marathon race yet and c)I have other goals in mind for 2011 with regards to what races I want to enter. 2012 is the target year to try and get in to the VLM.  Its Olympic year in London and the atmosphere will be fantastic!  Although with ballot places, you can never tell - its sheer luck.

So knowing that I havent secured a place for London, I have started to look towards races for next year.  I am still determined to run a half marathon and with this in mind, I entered the Edinburgh Half which is held on 10th April next year.  Plenty of time to train and I am determined to make sure I start early and put the distance in.

Plenty of race plans in the pipeline including the Ignis Women's 10k again and also to complete the GSR Half this time.  I would also like to do the Great North Run but this is another ballot race and again will be down to sheer luck if I'm chosen.

Time will tell with my plans but I'm sure I will be drivellig about it at some point on the blog, so stay tuned if you dare :-)

Kimbles

~x~x~

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So far so good :-)

Well the return to running this week has been better than I could have hoped for.  In my previous ramblings, I had been complaining about a hip injury which started 8 weeks ago (6 weeks before the GSR half marathon). In that time I took 2 weeks rest from running, had a 2 week trip to India (which allowed more rest) and then came back a week before I was due to race.  Unfortunately the rest did not cure the injury ;-(  I managed to run the GSR 10k but had pain in both my hip muscles during it and it wasnt a particularly great day for me :-(  I seriously thought I was going to have to jack the running in but careful review on hip injuries on the web and advice from other runners, I seem to have managed to get rid of the pain once and for all apart from a tightness issue sometimes in my right hip.  Heat treating the muscles and stretching has made a massive difference, so much so that I managed to start off with 2 treadmill runs of 3.3 miles each on Sunday and Tuesday.  Wednesday was a rest day and on Thursday I was going to go for another run but was alarmed to feel my hips were really tight and stiff.  This prompted a call to the Sport Injury Clinic at Inverclyde and for me to schedule an appointment for Wednesday coming, however I may now cancel this.  On Friday I spent the day with my heat treatment beanie bag and a hot water bottle on the muscles.  By Friday teatime, I felt good enough to get my kit on and try a road run - it was fab!!!!  I headed out my usual route and took it easy and found that the muslces were good - yay.  The flash flooding from Wednesday night was in evidence along the route, 2 rather mahoosive puddles and a over run from the hills which had to be dodged.  There was also a very large muddy stretched where the river had burst its bank onto the fields.  My lovely shiny new white trainers looked as if they had been on a x-country course lol.  The run itself was great.  I managed a 4.1 mile run and I was so pleased that the muscles held out.  I came home and stretched well and on Saturday had no ill effects or stiffness - yay!!

Sunday was long run day again and it was a good one.  A satisfying 5.2 mile run in lovely weather.  The last mile was tiring right enough as I havent run that far for awhile but I feel great after it - not sure the muscles will feel like that in the morning :-)

Could this be the turning point I needed to get me back on track?  I think the hip muscle problems have stemmed for over training for the GSR and not stretching properly.  A valuable lesson learned for future training plans and races I think :-)  I also think my new running shoes have made a difference as my old ones were definately getting a bit flat on the cushioning front :-)


Kimbles
~x~x~

At Last!!!

Well at long last, the hip problems seem to be getting better.  I have been following a series of heat and stretching treatments on them.  The left hip is definately better, the right hip still needs heat treatment to take the stiffness out of it.  But, the good news is that I managed a 3 mile run today on the dreadmill.  I know that they are not under the pressure that road running puts them under but it was a start which I am really pleased with.  I will continue on the dreadmill for the next week and then assess.  If I'm better then I will try a road run the following week.  The only problem with running on the DM is that its sooooo boring!!!  

Still waiting on my physio appointment and by the time it comes out, I might be recovered lol  I actually think the problem is with my IT band as that is what I'm stretching.  I love my heat treatment beanie bag.  Its fab - full of buckwheat and lavender and does the job ;-)  Now I just need to get that wicci bar off my mate and I'm sorted.  

I'm a miserable cow when I cant run and I'm sure my other half will agree with me on that, so thank god the injury isnt serious :-)

Haile Gebrselassie

I watched the Great North Run today.  What a fab event and I'm going to apply for the ballot next year.  Its on my bucket list as one of the runs I want to do.  The great Haile Gebrselassie ran the race today for the first time and won in a great time of  59m 33s.  Now to rank this alongside my times, he ran a half marthon (13.1 miles) quicker than I ran one of my 10k's!  Outstanding!!  He is a great sportsman and a great inspiration.  The women's race was won by Berhane Adere in 68m 49s, again another fantastic time.  The Great North Run is a gold listed road race with the IAF and attracts some great elite athletes.  The other great thing about it is the amount of people who run for charity and raise thousands for worthwhile causes. Hopefully if I appy for the ballot, I'll get picked and experience the atmosphere that everyone talks about :-)


Kimbles
~x~x~

Training Starts Again

Neeeeewwwww Shoooooeeeesss

Tuesday
Well the training has started again for the next 10k in 4 weeks.  I went out tonight for an easy run after Sunday's 10k race.  I even dug out my new running shoes to break them in :-)  It was a bit hard going and I thought by the mile mark I would have to give up as my hip got really sore.  So I stopped for a quick stretch and set off again.  I altered my running gait and found this made it a bit easier.  It wasnt a great run but it wasnt bad either.  I did stop a couple of times to stretch my hip out and by the time I reached home, I had manged to clock up a respectable 3.32 miles.  Came home and stretched thoroughly and sprayed some deep freeze on the affected parts and it seems to have done the trick so far.  I'm hoping as the weeks progress, the hip will ease off with the various stretching exercises I am doing.

Update (Wednesday)
Training is suspended again due to this bloody hip problem.  Left hip is really giving me grief today, so I will have to bow out of training for the rest of the week and follow the R.I.C.E process :-(  Hopefully it will be okay for next week to allow me to go for some gentle runs.

Kimbles

~x~x~

My Next Race :-)

Strathclyde Country Park

My next race on the cards is the St. Andrews Hospice 10k Road Race which is being held on 3rd Oct at Strathclyde Country Park.  This should be good as I like the course at Strathclyde and have already ran a 10k and 5k race there before.  Its a lovely park and they hold parkruns there every Saturday, however I have never had the opportunity yet to attend these as I normally attend the one at Pollock Park. I'm hoping to change that soon and to also get back to the Parkruns on a regular basis - I need the training!!!

Training commences this week for the race as I dont want to feel as un-prepared for this one as I was for the GSR :-)  Lets hope there are no injuries building up and that I am not afflicted with any colds or illnesses which I am sure are ready to spring into action - its is after all coming into the winter season :-/

On a side note, there is also only a month left until I find out if I have been accepted for the VLM - gulp!!!  What was I thinking????  Now that really scares me!!

Kimbles

~x~x~

AWOL & Great Scottish Run

Well its been 6 weeks since my last post and a few things have happened that have seen me leave my blog in a state of abondonment.  Firstly, I injured my left hip while out running.  I had reached the 8 mile mark and was feeling good about the approaching GSR half and then I was hit with an overuse injury.  Basically, my left hip muscle gave  up the ghost.  I reached the week 7 mark in training and my long run would have been 9 miles.  I set out knowing that the twinges in my hip had become a bit more pronounced in the previous week.  I set out and barely reach the mile mark when I had to stop and turn back home due to the pain ;-(  I was bitterly disappointed by this and I then had to take 2 weeks out resting as I couldn't manage even a short run. 

This injury was topped off with the knowledge that I was heading out to India for a 2 week business trip.  I had to take the sad decision before I went to pull out of the half. I thought I would have been fit enough and have the time to train in the gym.  Alas this was not to be the case.  I managed one very poor 5k run at the hotel gym and a Sunday swim as training - not good!!!  When I came home, I had one week to the GSR and knew that there wasn't a snowball's chance in hell of ever doing the half and knew I had made the right decision due to 4 weeks without training - all be it that I was peeved about it.  However I did manage a satisfying 5k run when I came back and made the snap decision to run the 10k rather than not try anything at all.  I headed to Glasgow to swap my half marathon chip/bib number for a 10k one.  My hip was a bit niggly but I thought that if I rested and looked after it, I would be fine for the Sunday race.

Pre-race photo

Sunday 5th arrived and it was time for the GSR.  I had dosed up on ibuprofen on the Saturday and when I woke up on Sunday, my hip was feeling a lot better.  Up, showered, dressed and with a bowl of porridge down my neck, hubby and I set off for Glasgow.  After a wee detour to get to the car park (which turned out to be surprisingly empty due to where it was located), we parked and headed off for George Square.  I was feeling okay and it was getting a bit worrying that I wasnt excited or nervous!!!  The 10k started at 9.30am and we spent the next 40 mins milling about waiting for the start.  I was in the blue zone, although I should have been green for my time, it seems the race people obviously thought I could do it in a quicker time or they didnt have any green bib/chips left!!!  So there I was standing in the cattle pen waiting to start and we heard the gun going off for the "white zone" (line for the film Airplane springs to mind here).  There was a 5 min staggered start between each zone and as we were waiting for ours to go off, you could see the white group heading up St Vincents street (a rather big hill).  It was then our turn to set off and head up that big hill - phew that was hard going.

Post race photo

The lack of training in the last 5 weeks leading up to the GSR showed as I struggled a bit during the run.  I wasn't super impressed with the course as I found it a bit lacking in support but that could be because of the time of morning it was.  People who ran the half said the support for their route was fantastic.  I think the other problem is that I didnt take my mp3 player with me for this race.  I had used it on the Ignis 10k but dont use music during my training runs.  I think maybe I need this motivation during a race.  A lesson learned for the next race :-)

Race bib and medal

The best part of the race?  The end lol.  Crossing the finish line is a huge high knowing that you have accomplished something.  Official time showed that I had completed the race in 69m 49s - not a personal best but still respectable considering.  I have to say that I was a bit despondent on the journey home.  I waited until 2 of my friends had finished the half and I kind of felt I had let myself down by not doing it.  However I have been reassured by numerous runners and non-runners alike that doing the 10k with so little training in the lead up was an accomplishment and that the half might have been just too much considering I was still nursing an injury.  Doesnt stop me from feeling like I failed in my initial goal.  Still, there will be other races and I am sure that each and every one of them will bring either a high or a low.  That's running for you :-)

On an aside note - the trip to India was fab.  The team I work with were fantastic and they made me feel very welcome and a huge thank you goes to them :-) The last day there was a very sad affair for me as I felt I was leaving friends behind.  Lets hope that I can maybe manage another trip over before any more changes are made and I dont get to visit again. 


Kimbles
~x~x~

6 Weeks And Counting - Halfway There!!!

Sunday

Today marked the half way point in my training before the big day.  There are now only 6 weeks left until I have my feet planted firmly at the start line - now whether they cross is a different story lol

I managed to complete 8 miles today and I also managed my fuelling during the run properly.  This meant that I could complete the who distance.  I felt really good at the end of the run but again my hip was feeling a bit stiff and sore by the end of it.

Tuesday
I never made it to the gym last night and that will have been 2 weeks since I have been.  I did however go for a 5 mile run.  It was fab running conditions which made the run a joy.  Beginning to build in confidence now with these distances.

Wednesday & Thursday
I eventually made it to the gym on Wednesday to complete one of my programs but I tell you - I certianly felt it on Thursday.  So much so, I was swithering whether to go out running.  Time was trotting on but I got my act together, got changed and headed out the door for another 5 miles.  I seriously considered giving up at the 1.5 mile mark and turning home but I dug in and continued on even though my hip was again starting to play up and this time it was sore while running.  By the time I reached the 4 mile mark, I was well into my stride and thoroughly enjoying my run.  By the time I reached home, I was chuffed with the completed distance.  I had also bought a new water bottle with a fabric handle/strap and I have to say its one of the best I have found so far.  It was easy to drink from and had a handly wee pocket to put my jelly babies in :-)  So I can say I was a happy camper with my purchase.  5 miles completed by the time I reached home and felt great.  Downside - turns out the pain in my hip was a bit worse than I thought and I had a restless night with the stiffness and pain.  This will be due to the increase in distance over a short period of time.  Some ibuprofen, rest and some deep cool will help it out I'm sure :-)

I also found out on Thursday that I have to travel to India in 2 weeks time for a business trip.  This is will take 2 weeks out of my training schedule and the trip is 2 weeks before race day.  This means I will only have a week at home before the gun goes off.  Not great but not a disaster.  Just have to make sure the hotel has a gym where I can keep up my running  :-)


Kimbles
~x~x~

Nearly At The Halfway Point!!!

Its Sunday, 7 weeks to race day and 7 miles completed on my long run - phew I'm pooped!!  It was hard going and I had to walk in some places (not many) as a) I needed to take my magic beans and a much needed drink lol and b) my IT band was causing issues with my left knee (my left side always gives me problems for some reason).  Also my right hip was a bit stiff and sore - its old age you know!!  This is the longest I have run to date and I was chuffed that I completed the distance.  Although, to be honest I was starting to get a bit bored by the time I had reached the half way point as the route is very quiet past the 3 mile mark.  However by the time I had turned and started to head back into Fairlie, the moment of boredom passed.  I'm going to have to find something to keep me occupied, so looks as if I will have to take the iPhone with me and tune into Heart radio (there's an app for that!!). I had stopped taking my mp3 with me as it was putting me off my pace, so maybe I should just plug in when these moments of boredom happen.

On Tuesday, I went out from an easy 4 mile run.  On the route back, the sun came out over Millport and was very warm (all down my left side). The view is spectacular when this happens and is one of the benefits of staying on the coast.  However, I was glad to get into a shaded part to recover my breathing as I find it hard going in hot weather.  On the final half mile, the clouds covered over a bit and I managed to pick up my lagging pace again. I don't think I am cut out to run in warm weather as I seem to get on so much better under cloud cover!!!

Well Thursday arrived and I went out for my scheduled run.  Turned out to be a fab run and one of the best for a long while ;-) Perfect running conditions weather wise - dry and bright with some minor cloud cover but the sun was not strong and the heat was moderate.  Took my iPhone out with me to try my new running app Runkeeper.  The GPS on it was great and I had no break in signal like I have had with other apps.  Mileage for Thursday - 4.55 miles :-)


From previous entries in my blog I had worried about actually doing the mileage for the half but I seem to have now got back on track apart from the few niggles I have in my legs and I am starting to feel a bit more positive again.

Also now that I am getting closer to the race, I think it maybe time to start sending our my pleading requests for sponsorship for MacMillan Cancer Relief :-)


Kimbles
~x~x~

8 Weeks Of Training Left!!!!

Sunday
So we only have 2 months left now before the big day.  I'm beginning to wonder where the time has went!!  My long run on Sunday this week went better than I anticipated.  I was late out of bed again this week and then couldn't decide what I wanted to do. The wind was blowing up a stooshie and it was pretty overcast. Apart from that, my eyelids still felt like they were glued together and I anticipated that it would take some time for them to prise themselves fully open!!!  So I decided to have breakfast and watch some tv.  I watched the remainder episodes of SATC series 1 and then motivated my backside up off the couch to get ready.  I discovered on Saturday night that all my running kit was in the wash and was now taking up pride of place on the radiators drying.  There was a nice row of Nike Swooshes on the downstairs radiator with all my running pants lined up lol  So this only left me my long running pants and long sleeve shirt - not great for the summer!!  So off I eventually set with a feeling of dread as this was supposed to be the 6 mile run.  When I got out there and got into my pace, I actually started to enjoy it.  The weather was perfect - a cooling breeze and no rain.  Although when the sun did poke its head through, it was very warm.  By the time I reached home, I had completed 6.12 miles, was super chuffed with myself  and felt good after the exercise.  That's nearly half the distance covered so far and I feel much better that I have reached this particular milestone.  I feel a bit more confident now that I can do it. Just need to play about with my fuel during my runs now.

Friday
Well its now the end of the training week and what have I accomplished - flippin sod all!!!!  And here was me saying further up that I felt better at being half way there - ooohh I dont think so now!! I haven't been out since Sunday and my long run.  My motivation right now seems to be stuck firmly at the start line and I cant get it to cross over :-/  At least when I start again on Sunday, I will have enough running kit, cause it sure as heck ain't in the wash!!!! 

Here's to next week and a better frame of mind.  Well... my mind and motivation better be in the frame as its only 7 weeks on Sunday to race day!!




Kimbles
~x~x~

9 Weeks To Go!!!

9 weeks to go until race day and to be honest I think I may have temporarily hit a wall!!! I have a dose of the C.B.A's (can't be arsed) right now and I have this overwhelming desire just to pack the whole thing in.  I have this niggling doubt running through my head that I may just have bitten off more than I can chew but again, never let it be said I am a quitter.  I will just have to gasp, pant and crawl my way to the finish line :-)

I think my problem is that I had a rather "off" weekend. I slept too much - yes you heard right!!  Sometimes too much sleep can be just as bad as too little ;-(  I was supposed to head out for my long run on Sunday but I never made it.  Let's be honest, the weather was more apt for December than July!!  Torrential rain and it was blowing a gale. Although the rain had eased up by teatime, the wind was still there but not to the extent it was earlier in the day.  I could have made it out but kept coming up with excuses.  So as I was taking the mutt for his nightly absolutions, I formulated a plan (muwhahaha - injects evil laugh).  I would do a long run on Tuesday, gym on Wednesday and another semi-long run on Thursday.

Well Monday arrived with a bump!!  Monday's are evil personified and should technically be banned me thinks!! I headed to the gym and completed my program and actually felt good about it.  The gym have invested in industrial fans to keep the place cool and it was a welcome relief to have some air circulating for a change. 

So okay - Tuesday turned out to be a bit of a disaster.  Firstly the weather was awful (another Julember day) with quite strong winds and rain.  Then by 5pm I was so tired I could barely keep my eyes open.  I decided as soon as I finished work that I would go for a short snooze for an hour and then get up and go for my run. Nearly 3 hours later, I woke up and that was only because OH phoned me at 7:45pm!!!.  It was dank and dark outside and to be honest I couldn't face going to the gym and using the dreadmill for an hour, so another night sitting on my backside.  So basically the dastardly plan I had formulated on Sunday had went right out the window. I really NEED to get some distance running in or I am never going to be able to do this half ;-(

It was Wednesday already and I couldn't procrastinate anymore - I needed to get out and run or race day would be on me before I knew it .  So I headed  upstairs to get ready even though heavy showers had been on and off for the last hour.  I swear I must have the luck of the Irish because as I headed out, the rain stopped and stayed off until I got back home.  I was just in the door less than 10 minutes when the heavens opened up.  This has happened to me on race days as well lol.  Anyway, I managed a nice long run of 5.27 miles and when I got home, I felt really good.  The stresses of the day had melted away - ahhh bliss.


Well its now Thursday and if I stand on my tip toes, I can just about see the weekend :-)  Tonight was my usual gym session. I was undecided as to whether I should do some interval training on the "dreadmill" followed by my program or do the designated 5 min warm up on the x-trainer and then do the program.  Decisions, decisons!!

Well the decision was made.  1k warm  up on the dreadmill, followed by my program and then I finished off with another 2.5k run.  Exercise completed for the week.  Tomorrow and Saturday are rest days - phew!  :-)


Happy weekend everyone :-D



Kimbles
~x~x~

Week 10!

Its been a funny week this week with regards to training.  On Sunday I managed a 4 mile run but the heat was again crippling again.  Summer is great but us Scottish milkbottles are not used to this type of sustained sunshine lol  At least I managed to do the run and I was successful in making sure that my pace was right for the run.

Monday was supposed to be my gym session day but to be honest, I was exhausted and decided to take the night off, spend the time reading my running mag and go to bed early.  The first parts worked okay but someone's tv was super loud in our street and I ended up being awake most of the night :-/

Tuesday seen one of my best runs for awhile.  I managed to do a 3.5m tempo run without feeling shattered or in need of oxygen lol  If only they were all like that - hmmm

Wednesday was my scheduled trip to the gym. 2 miles interval training on the "dreamill" followed by program 2 of my strength training.  It was hard work but I have found that the "good morning" exercises are getting easier on the old hamstrings.  There doesn't seem to be the threat of them going "twang" now and when I got up on Thursday I didn't have the dreaded ache :-D


Thursday was an easy run of 4 miles.  I ran out to Fairlie library and stopped en-route to grab a quick drink of water and a 30 sec chat with my Mum who was strutting her stuff at line dancing. It was very humid and yet again, I looked like a radish on the boil!!!  Training for the week over - phew!!


Kimbles
~x~x~

11 Weeks Till GSR!!

We arrived back quite late on Saturday night after our trip to London but after a good night's sleep, I was up early on Sunday morning and dressed in running kit to head out for my long run.  It was 9.30am when I headed out but the sun was up and it was very warm even at that time of the morning.  I have this habit of being too obsessed with times on my runs and I had to keep telling myself that this run is supposed to be a long, slow one designed to build stamina.  So I managed to keep my pace steady on the run, however, we encountered 2 minor blips on the run - the effects of the cold!!!  With all the gunk (excuse the graphics) I have from this flippin' cold, I started to feel sick about the 2mile mark and need to stop to errrr - throw it up so to speak!!  Not nice.  Another stop about the 3m mark for the same thing and then I headed home.  The chest was feeling a bit heavy in the last mile as well.  4 miles completed and not my finest run :-(  I HATE HAVING THE COLD!!!!

Monday saw my first trip to the gym this week for my strength training sessions.  Evil PT came in and laughed when I told him I was hobbling about London after Wednesday's session but as he rightly pointed out, it must be working and the muscles will get used to it!! This is the 3rd session and I have to say that I am seeing minor improvements in my core.

 

Tuesday arrived and it was time for my next scheduled run of the week. I have moved forward in the plan as I need to start challenging myself on distance, so I aimed to do over 3.5 miles.  When I set off just after 7pm, there was a slight breeze which was keeping the heat at bay a bit but by the time I reached Fairlie this had disappeared and the heat built up.  I kept my pace steady and managed to plod through.  I had to stop at one point to re-do the laces on my shoes as I had done them up too tight - doh!  By the time I got to the main road at the marina, the heat had sapped my will to live and was making me feel a bit sick. I had to stop for a quick 30 second breather again as the humidity was crippling. 3.83m completed by the time I reached home. I vow I will get to the end of a run without stopping but this naffin cold has thrown everything out of kilter again.

Wednesday arrived.  Today was the Jogscotland 5k Challenge in Glasgow Green.  To be honest I hadn't been looking forward to it all day as I was a tired and I was worrying about who would be running in it.  These events tend to attract the running clubs who's members leave you trailing in their wake!!!   Certain other elements had drained my enthusiasm for this event and by the time I had actually arrived at Glasgow Green I was really in the mood to turn right round and head home!!!  But never let it be said that I am a quitter, so I headed off to collect my number and running chip.  The walk from the car had warmed me up and I had no need to do the warm up with Jog Scotty (the mascot) :-)  We started bang on 7.30pm and as usual the whippets were off and running.  It was actually a nice course to run and one you could do on your own with no racing involved.  The heat was actually quite bad and by 3k it had sapped my strength. I had to walk several times to catch my breath.  The smell from the whiskey distiller was awful as well.  You got a whiff of it at certain points along the route - bluerk!  OH was at the end of the 3k to let me know there was only 1k left to run (thank god).  The last ditch effort to the finish was horrendous and as I cross the line, the customary feeling of being sick returned.  I collected my goody bag with my medal inside, bottle of water and my t-shirt - which I may add is now a medium and not a large like previous ones :-)  Another nice thing about finishing was the Tunnocks caramel wafer in the goody bag - yum!  Official results show that I had completed in 29m 57s.  Not bad, but not a PB.  Oh well - chalk it up to experience and here's to the next one!!

NB: - I have just found out that the 5k race I ran last night was a Stewart's Grand Prix event which means it gathers points for those from Scottish Athletics competing in it, culminating in a monetary prize for the winner.  This explains the amount of club runners in the 7.30pm race, so I don't feel so bad about my time and the fact that the "whippets" were running :-D 

Thursday - after last night's efforts, I can safely say that I am pooped!!!  Today was the first time in months that I have had to take my inhaler as my chest was tight this morning and that is not good.  I hate relying on it! Tonight is another session at the gym to do program 2 of the strength training.  Thank goodness Friday is a rest day and Saturday is only a 40 min walk as part of cross-traning!!!!

Kimbles

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12 Weeks To Go - The Training Starts!!!

Sunday

12 weeks to go till race day. Today was a scheduled long run of 4 miles.  Woke up this morning to drizzle and cooler conditions.  "Great" I though - "cooler weather to run in".  No such luck! By afternoon the sun had come out and it was starting to get very warm. Headed out about 4pm for my usual route.  Again another hard run.  Chest was still tight which is very annoying and is making the running a bit difficult.  Getting a bit fed up of it.  6.59km completed with a major struggle.  Lets hope it changes as the week goes on :-/

Monday
Gym night tonight and "program 1" devised by devil PT lol.  The gym was quiet when I turned up which was good. Found the program easier tonight than last week (hhhmmm maybe I'm not doing it properly lol). Its  nice to have the structure back and it took 40 mins all in to do which wasn't bad.

Tuesday
Tonight was my scheduled 3 mile run according to the plan.  I woke up this morning with a niggling minor sore throat but wasn't enough to stop me going out. The run was tough as obviously the cold is playing havoc right now with my breathing, even though its not coming to anything. Why is it these types of things always strike at the wrong time!!  12 weeks of training and I can't afford to miss any because of a stupid cold!!!!  Anyway - 5.35k completed and home to rest :-)

Wednesday
Well that "minor" sore throat escalated overnight - bah!!!!  Had a rough night sleeping last night until I eventually gave in and took painkillers!  I managed a few hours before I dragged myself up for work.  I hate sore throats.  Sniffles and aches and pains I can handle but sore throats?  Noooooo!!! Tonight was also the night that I would go through "program 2" devised by the devil PT.  It was hard going but I managed that and a 2 mile run.  The "dreadmill" is sooooo boring!!!  I'm hoping to report that I will have done my next run from London!! I would like to run in Regents Park but looking at the weather forcast its going to be scorchio and hard going!!  Watch this space lol

Thursday/Friday
Never made it for a run in Regents Park as it was too late to head out on Thursday and by Friday, the effects of evil PT session had kicked in and my glutes and hamstrings were aching.  I was shuffling along like John Wayne!!!  Still there will be another time I am sure :-)


Kimbles
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Parkrun - #5

Day dawned warm again for my 5th Parkrun at Pollock Park - this was going to be hard going.  The only reason I say this is that my quads still ached from Wednesdays weighted squats with a twist and the rest of the core work!!  I had also done a 5.35km run on the Friday night.  I was still undecided on Friday night whether I was going to go or not and decided to leave it until the morning when my alarm went off.

My alarm went off at the usual time and I lay in bed mulling over what I should do.  After 30 mins of this, I decided to get up, get ready and head off to Parkrun - if I didn't go, I would spend the rest of the day beating myself up for not going, even though I was tired and my OH phoned just before I was leaving to check if I was going!!!.  Arrived at Pollock and it was a beautiful morning and very warm.  Waiting for the start, I just wasnt feeling in my "happy" place so to speak and was beginning to wonder if I had made the right decision.  The run started and my question was answered.  It was tough going!!!  My chest felt tight as well which threw my breathing out and made for a pretty horrible run, along with the fact that my legs felt heavy and tired as well.  I managed to pick a runner in front of me who I kept pace with, which helped.  I had to speed walk a few times and felt as if I was cheating but decided I could view it as my cross-training day!!! Last hill and the final downhill and I was at the finish line - thank goodness. Finish time - 31m 11s.  No PB this week, which is not surprising.  

Note to self - listen to tired body before trying to do too much :-D


Kimbles
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13 Weeks To Go!

Tuesday
One week to go until I official start my training plan for the half.  That is when it will become serious - gulp!  I re-activated my gym membership today as the plan to do weights and core work at home just wasn't working.  So I needed to put some structure back and going to the gym will do this.  After the race on Sunday, I entered the JogScotland 5k challenge race on 23rd June.  I am a glutton for punishment lol.

Bit disappointed today as I had planned to go out for a 4 miler but never made it out! It was blowin' a hooley and raining - one of those really dank, miserable nights!!  If I had went out, I could have been blown across to Millport lol.  Oh well - going to have to do a run tomorrow before my appointment at the gym.


Wednesday
Gym night tonight!!!  I went for my session with the PT tonight.  This is to add strength workouts to my training plan.  He has created 2 plans which get done alternatively in a week.  Did program 1 tonight - ouch!!  Should be good and I hope I will see improvements.  A few exercises with the swiss ball, squat exercise and chest presses.  No idea what next week will hold as we are going over program 2!!! 



Friday
Due to sore muscles after Wednesday's gym session (youch), I had to give my run a miss last night!!  I was still swithering as to whether I should drag my sorry backside out tonight but I gritted my teeth, got ready and headed out.  Usual route and 5.35km completed.  Not sure whether to do a Parkrun tomorrow morning ;-)


Kimbles
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RFL - Glasgow Green (6th June '10)

It was supposed to rain overnight but when I rose at 6:30am (what an ungodly hour to get up on a Sunday), it was a bit overcast but muggy.  A shower and breakfast and by 7:45am we were on the road.  My mate Lynn had come down for a visit and was coming to spectate at the race as well.  When we arrived in Glasgow, a few of the roads had been closed off which made parking a bit of a challenge (and expensive!!).  Cars parked and we headed to Glasgow Green to be met with a sea of pink!!!  Lynn seen this and wished she could run but she had already done her RFL in May down south lol  The tannoy announced that those who were going to run under 30 minutes were to make their way to the start - this was at 9:05 and the race started at 9:30!!! Of course you had the customary people who walk/jog making their way to the front which causes congestion - sheesh! But hey, its for charity so what the hell!

The atmosphere was great and we started off at bang on 9.30am.  Darius Campbell was the celeb starting the race and he piled on the flattering patter :-D Off we headed up Saltmarket and there was a lot of congestion which meant more of a shuffle walk until we could get a clear path.  As we turned into Trongate, it began to thin out a bit and then I was off like a linty.  Couldn't believe the pace I was shifting along at.  At 3k though the humidity was becoming a problem and at that point I could have thankfully done with a downpour to cool me down.  The last km as we entered back into Glasgow Green was completed at a slower pace due to the weather and as I crossed the line, I had the urge to throw up but I restrained myself lol.  Collected my medal, goody bag and bottle of water and headed to the grassy area to wait on hubby and Lynn.  When they reached me, I checked my watch to discover that I had achieved one of my goals - I had broke the 30 minute mark!!!!!!!  I had completed the run in 28m 51s - fantastic!!!  My previous PB at Parkrun had been 31:05 :-)  

The other fantastic thing about today was that I had managed to raise £190 for Cancer Research and it was all worth it. My race today was dedicated to Pat Hanley who is currently fighting cancer.  Keep up the fight Pat!

Hubby duly did his David Bailey and took the customary post race photos - bless him :-)

Next race will be the Jogscotland 5k, which is again at Glasgow Green but will be run at night and hopefully in cooler conditions :-)  After that, its the half marathon - eeeekkk!!!

Kimbles
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14 Weeks To Go!!

Sunday

14 weeks to go till race day.  After a rocky week due to illness, I managed to go for a run today.  I was worried due to the jippy tummy carry on but I was okay.  The run was surprisingly good.  I took my time and managed a 5.35km (3.3m) run and in a pretty decent time.  Lets hope that this bug has final passed and that I can settle into my training!!  I also managed to calibrate my new Nike+ Sportsband after the other one went on the fritz due to the updated software.  Nike were super swift in replacing it - 2 days, so good customer service there!!

Tuesday

Day started out pretty blah.  Still had the lingerings of the tummy bug but nothing dramatic but it was dragging me down.  I suppose the jist of it was that I just couldn't be bothered today. However by 6.30pm I was starting to perk up to the idea of going for a run.  So I duly trotted off, got ready and headed out.  Glad I did as the weather had picked up and it was lovely on my usual route.  Had a 3 course meal while out due to the amount of midgies about - at least I didnt have to have protein when I got home lol.  I was surprised that my run went so well considering my mood throughout the day and I managed my usual 5.35km.  Tomorrow is another day :-D

Wednesday

Today was a good day ;-)  The sun was shining, my head was in the right place and I managed to do 2 miles with some speed intervals mixed in.  It was quite muggy when I was out running tonight but it was still enjoyable.  Not quite as many midgies tonight - they must have been in hiding in fear of being eaten!!  I seemed to have a dose of the munchies today for some reason and was craving carbs (and not midgies)!! So lots of toast and nutella was on the menu tonight - yum! Maybe after last week's problems with food, it was catching up with me :-)

Thursday

3 mile run tonight but it was a struggle on the way back.  My quad muscles felt really tired for some reason and my chest felt tight.  Forgot to take my olbus inhaler before I went out, so my breathing was off :-(  Added to that was the heat - another muggy night outside.  Still, I managed the 5.35k in roughly my usual time, maybe a minute or 2 slower than Tuesday.  My diet has been off this week and I havent been eating properly (the wrong foods) so that may have something to do with the no energy! Rest day on Friday and Saturday in prep for the Race For Life on Sunday :-)

15 Weeks To Go!!

Sunday

Its now 15 weeks and counting until race day!  I set off for a 4 mile run this morning and boy was it hard going.  It was very HOT and by the time I had finished, I was a rather un-ladylike sweaty puddle.  I decided today that I would take my donut water bottle with me since it was hot and the fact that I need to start carrying one for longer distances.  I had body fuel in the bottle but to be honest I felt sick because I had liquid in my stomach. I obviously only need to carry this on distances of more than 5 or 6 miles!!! Back home for much needed breakkie and a long cool drink. 6.59k (4.09m) completed today.


Tuesday
Today wasnt a particularly pleasant day.  Firstly I was floored with a 24 hour virus that had me shivering as if I was taking a holiday in the North Pole in a bikini!!!! Felt queasy all day Monday and today so obviously no running could take place.  Secondly was d-day at the work.  Would OH and I be safe in our jobs?  The short answer was yes thank goodness so I have a job for a few years yet :-) Hopefully the virus will have fully cleared out and I should be able to get out tomorrow for a run.

Wednesday- Saturday
Well I'm still no better and I havent been out running at all this week :-(  So now a week has passed and no running and no ground work for my running plan.  Here's hoping next week will be better!

Parkrun

Today dawned misty and muggy.  The weather was promising to be blisteringly hot at the weekly Parkrun event in Pollock Park and it didnt disappoint.  This was a huge difference compared to last week's weather where it was chilly and the heavens opened up for about 10 mins before the event was due to start!!!!  Today was a different story - the temperature was in the low 20's with clear blue skies :-D

This week, I had put my name forward to be a volunteer and I was assigned the role of Tailrunner.  This involved making sure everyone finished the course in one piece and to collect the signs after the second lap of the course was complete. It was nice to have a different perspective on the event and to see those who are at the front of the pack as they are normally finished long before I cross the finish line :-) 305 people took part today and the first male runner finished in a time of 15:46.  The first female runner finished in 19:48 which is fantastic considering my PB is 31:05!!!

I walked the course today with a young girl to keep her company and for the first time actually seen the beauty of Pollock Park.  I have ran this course 4 times and also ran up one of the hills in the Park (which is a downhill run during Parkrun) during the women's 10k and you never really take in your surroundings as you are concentrating more on your running and the other runners.  With the weather and the surroundings, it was a great day.  Parkrun is a fantatic event and I am glad my friend persuaded me to start going.  I love it and look forward each Saturday to completing the course - even though its an early rise and a 60 mile round trip lol  Its a free event and rely on volunteers to keep the event ticking over and I'm glad I gave up a week to help and I get full points for doing it which is a bonus.  Will definately volunteer again!! Event over, we head to The Burrell for a post-event coffee and a chat.  

OH and I then headed off to Breahead to shop for trainers - didnt find anything so headed off home.  We decided that we would treat ourselves and head off to Room for a late lunch/early tea which was lovely followed by Mr Whippie ice-cream while walking along the prom.  Largs was really busy today due to the weather so we walked down to dinner and back again as we wouldnt have got a parking space.  The day was wrapped up with relaxing in front of the tv with my feet up - aahhhh the pleasures in life ;-)

Week 16 Ramblings!

Tuesday

Tonight I had my scheduled run.  This consisted of a 3m run from the Hal Higdon plan.  I have decided that I will start this plan but repeat weeks 1&2 twice and then that will bring me in-line for when the plan actually starts in 4 weeks time.

The weather was lovely tonight - a warm 16 degress.  I set off along my usual route, following the path towards The Pencil and then on towards the Marina.  There was quite a wee breeze as a headwind but wasn't too bad.  Passed a fellow female runner, we smiled and carried on.  Headed out round the back of the Marina, passed the moored boats.  Down towards the wee bridge that the trains cross over and out towards the path running alongside the road - past the sheepies and lambs :-).  Crossed the road at Kelburn and headed out to the petrol station (not for fuel for myself  - that would be my pasta later lol).  Once I get here, I know I have completed over 2.5k and I turn and head off back for home.  The female runner I passed earlier is heading towards me and we give each other a huge grin and a wave and carry on our way ;-)  Heading back along the road its sheltered here and it was warm in the sun.  Back to Kelburn entrance, cross the road and head off back along the path towards the bridge and then up on the straight along by the Marina.  For some reason I always have a mental block about this straight but tonight, I powered on.  The new playlist was working!!!  As I get back onto the path along past The Pencil, a welcome cooling breeze blows in from the water - aaaahhh bliss.  Round past said Pencil and head off towards home which is about 0.5k away but has a hill leading to the railway bridge which crosses into our street.   Phew - hill completed with a lot of huffing, puffing and panting and its the last 100 metres to the back door - done!!! 5.37k completed (3.34m).  Home to complete my cool down stretches and stuff my face with a bowl of well deserved pasta and mackeral :-D

Tuesday's Playlist:

Sexy Bitch - David Guetta (ft Akon)

Let Me Entertain You - Robbie Williams

Tik Tok - Ke$ha

Flawless - George Michael

Work - Kelly Rowland

Keep On Running - Spencer Davis Group

Use Somebody - Kings Of Leon (fantastic - regulated my pace homeward bound)

Sex On Fire - Kings Of Leon

You Make Me Feel - Sylvester (which now reminds me of Louie Spence in Pineapple lol)

Wednesday 

2m run from the Hal's plan.  Really didn't feel like it after a naff day at work but after making hubbies tea and having a breather, I headed upstairs to get ready.  Wasnt a great day weather wise and I felt cold all day, so decided it was a case of the long sleeved running top and my long johns lol.  All ready and I head out the door - wasnt as bad as I thought.  I headed out the usual route and it was quiet.  Only downfall was the gathering of the midgie clan on the footbridge and breathing in, they stuck to my vicks under my nose - bluerk.  Let me tell you - the weather was very deceiving - its was muggy outside and my long johns and top contributed to a face that looked like an exploding radish by the time I got home!!   

Playlist:

Paparazzi - Lady GaGa

I Said Never Again - Rachael Stevens

I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas

Keep On Jumping - Jocelyn Brown, Todd Terry & Martha Wash

Clubfoot - Kasabian

Thursday

Tonight was a scheduled 3m run.  Cazza popped down to join me on my outing :-)  Flippin hell she nearly killed me with her speed but I was pleasantly surprised all the same that I managed to keep the pace and I really enjoyed it - thanks Cazza for coming down :-)  No music tonight but plenty of huff and puff chat out towards the petrol station and back and passed the baaaaing sheep encouraging us on our way lol  5.35k completed (3.3m). Home to stretch and have my toast with tuna/tomato filling and strawberries in chocolate sauce - yum :-) Friday is a rest day - aahhhhh bliss!

Ignis Women's 10k

Right now that I have mastered this blogging thingy (and because I am full of hot air), let me post my ramblings about the Ignis Women's 10k which took place on Sunday 9th May at Bellahoustan Park.

Let me rewind to the events of the previous day/evening. Its Saturday 8th May and there is a feeling of what can only be described as a mass escape from the butterfly cage at Edinburgh Zoo taking place in my stomach. I turn to my beloved and say "I seriously am not going to manage this". My darling husband's reply was "oh shut up". You gotta love the support of a non-runner lol. Anyway, belly full of carbs, fully loaded on the water front and I trundle off to bed to get some sleep. Well that was the plan - after what seemed like hours of tossing and turning, I eventually get some sleep.

Sunday 9th May dawns bright and clear to the sound of the alarm rudely awakening me from my dream of running glory. Showered, dressed and the mandatory 52g of carbs in the stomach (my mate will know the joke behind this). Hubby and I set off toot sweet in the car for Glasgow. No normal people are about at this time on a Sunday - not even the dog walkers!!!! We park in Bothwell Street and set off for George Square to catch the free bus service to the start line. We are about 0.5k away from the bus when I discover I have forgot my appendage - my iPhone!!! Arrrggghhh - its sitting in the middle console in the car in full view. So off we trundle back to the car - with hubby muttering in my ear. We turn into Bothwell Street and I comment "this is the hill we have to run up in Sept". So we walk part of the way and I leave hubby and jog the rest of the way to the car (are you impressed? No thought not lol). Collects iPhone and heads back to get the bus. Panic sets in when hubby asks "did you lock the car?". Now I have to say that this is one of the things that winds me up as I always get a set distance from the car and think "did I lock it?". So from Bothwell Street to George Square I punctuate our conversation with "Are you sure I locked the car? Did you see the lights flash?", with hubby duly nodding his head and winding me up!!!

Bellahoustan Park - the madness begins. The crowds are starting to gather and we both head off to the Green starting zone. Routine sets in. Number pinned on - check. Sportsband on - check. Mp3 in pocket - check. Vicks nasal stuff under nose - check (dont ask - its better not to!!). Hat on - check. Picture pre-race - check. Lot of hanging around waiting for the warm up - check. I decide rather late on that I should maybe visit the loos pre-race. Green Zone toilets have a massive queue. Walk down to next colour zone and found the queues okay so that wasnt bad.

9.40 am - warm up starts in Green Zone. Not that we could see anything as the crowds were huge and the stage wasn't that high for anyone to see the girls (apart from hubby who was standing on the wall). Second song in - sound goes and no-one could hear a blasted thing. Still, we all duly bobbed and stretched along with the girls.

10:00 am - the horn goes off telling us the race has started. The women in the green zone start to move forward towards the start.

10:13 am - off we go. Nike+ started and away I go. I was in the zone, I was fighting fit and I was running at a decent pace. "You got this in the bag girl - your doing fine" I was saying to myself. 5k in and I'm still going fine, until I cross into Pollock Park and the dreaded foot pain which had been okay till now started to (dratted work shoes from the previous Tuesday had caused it). The left knee started to niggle - aarrrggghhh noooooooooo. Get to 6k and walk for 30 secs to shake knee out, loosen left trainer, throw some jelly beans down my neck and set off again. We then come to the dreaded hill - which is okay on Parkruns on a Saturday as we run down it but this was a differnt kettle of fish. I had to walk for 10 seconds to navigate and get my mojo in place. 8k - second wind kicks in and then we're out onto Drumbreck road. "Not long to go now girl, no stopping, keep going". As I come to the corner of Drumbreck Road and Mosspark Boulevard, the huge crowds of supporters are gathered here and I take out my earphones to soak up shouts of encouragement. I see the finish line, it seems to get further away from me - like a distant memory. Last sprint and I can see the end in sight - I am over the line in 64m and 19s - woo hoo! I stand in the queue to receive my medal, goody bad and much needed bottle of water and banana. Hubby is there beside me in the crowds taking photos ;-D Meet up with Cazza, more photos, quick chat and then we head for the bus back to Glasgow to get the car. Phew - what a day, what a race and what a feeling. Here's to the next one ;-)