Mini Mum Marathon

I did it!

2009-04-28T08:45:00.000-07:00

I still can’t quite believe I did it. It was fantastic! Yes it was unexpectedly hot, yes it was a very long way, yes it hurt, but I wouldn’t have missed it. The atmosphere is tremendous, the support from London’s crowd amazing and the organisation mind boggling. But most of all it’s humbling. Humbling because the majority of the 36 000 runners were ordinary people of all sorts of shapes, sizes, ages and origins, pushing themselves to the limit to do something positive for other people. In these days of materialism, where self and money count for everything, it restored my faith in human kind to see so very many people making such a public demonstration that they care. For me, it has been an awesome journey. I really didn’t know if I could do it, but to honour Penelope’s memory and to make something positive from her tragically short life, I was determined to complete it. The journey has not just been the distance or the training but the stirring of goodwill amongst our many supporters. I have been overwhelmed by people’s generosity, interest and support and overawed by so many people who have contributed to the fund – some who can ill afford it. I was worried that raising £1 500 was a huge target – I would never have believed that the total today stands at nearly £4 000.
As to marathon itself, I am trying to commit every step of the journey to memory so that I can go over and over it. My time was not as good as I had wanted – I was hoping to do inside 5.30 but came in at 6.19. The heat was not forecast and made a real difference in the second half – it just seemed to drain the energy from me! By mile 18 my lips were on fire from sunburn and afterwards I looked like I’d been away for a long weekend in the med!! The start was really exciting and I was so lucky to be staying so close with no long walk or train journey to get there. But I did need the loo and the queue was a mile long so I held on to the first loo stop – where it was also a mile long so onto the second – still a mile long but desperate by now so had to stop – took nearly 15 minutes just to go to the loo! With two other loo stops along the way I reckon I can knock off at least 25 mins! No sign of the She Pee stations either – what happened to them?? It look ages to get over the start– sort of shuffling along on a wave of excitement – but once we were down the hill towards Greenwich it thinned out a bit and everyone could find their pace. Including the rowing boat, telephone, enormous nurse, Mr Men, doughnuts, apples, rhinos and camels. The people that ran in these heavy, hot costumes deserve two medals!! I was hoping to stick with the Runners World 12 min mile pace group – but lost them at the first pee stop so was on my own from then on – me and 36 000 others. All the way people were friendly and kind to each other – egging people on, giving encouragement – especially towards the finish. The crowd were simply incredible – all the way round they cheered and shouted encouragement, handed out sweets and drinks – one pub was handing out a tray of beers and another lady offered me a cheese or ham sandwich!! FSID had a cheer station at mile 17 which did a great job and there were several other groups of FSID supports who gave us a special cheer. The family gathered at the start just outside the park at the traffic lights and I got a good view of them and saw them again at the six mile point at the bottom of Greenwich Park. They then went to the finish and were waiting on Birdcage Walk – with a great banner that they had made unbeknown to me! The route from Greenwich through to Bermondsey seemed to fly past, with the streets lined with parties, bands and well wishers. Through Surrey Quays the roads were full with families out to enjoy themselves for the day – picnics, BBQ’s, deck chairs – the works! Just a shame we couldn’t stop….Then all of a sudden they were telling us that Tower Bridge was just round the corner and there it was and I was over, and on to the Isle of Dogs. People had said that this stretch is the hardest because there are fewer people but the good weather brought them out and all the way round, even through Canary Warf there were hundreds of people. Near Canary Warf Station the London Fire Brigade has a great cheer station, really well done and they all gave everyone a great boost. The Fullers Pride pub at Tower Bridge, which we passed twice, was also incredible – with bands and all sorts of lively things happening. Despite the heat and mileage and the feeling that my legs couldn’t go another step, the miles from 20 – 25 seemed to fly past. Perhaps it was being on more familiar territory going down the Embankment, or the countdown to the finish, but it seemed to speed past. At this point we were all encouraging each other, especially those who were obviously in pain; everyone, everyone, wanted to make it to the finish. Got to Westminster and I could almost smell the finish. At that point the energy comes flooding back and the legs sprang (well, ish) into action again. On to Bird cage Walk the I could hear the family shouting and waving and I crossed over to hi five them. Up to the corner, in front of Buckingham Palace and right turn down the Mall. Ohhh how good that was! Arms up and a big smile – and it was over. 26.2 miles and almost £4000 for FSID. Awesome.
Thank you to everyone, I really could not have done it without your support and encouragement.
To paraphrase Adidas, I have spent years doubting that I could run a marathon, I will now spend a lifetime knowing that I have.

A Question of Pants

2009-04-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

Written Saturday pm April 25

Everything is in order, we have arrived at our friend’s in Greenwich and are right here, just five minutes away from the start. We’ve recced the park and I know where I have to go. All the preparation is over and the final count down has begun. Gulp. The sports massage yesterday may not have been such a good idea – I’ve got the bruises to prove it. Oh the blissful thought that I may not have to have another of those torture sessions for some time……
I went to register on Thursday after a big presentation in London and was quite overawed – especially by the Adidas tunnel with the music from the BBC Marathon TV coverage – it really brought home that this time, I’m taking part !!!!! I took in the atmosphere, listened to some presentations and bought an item or two. I loved the guy who said drink it all in and relish the moment – nothing will feel sweeter than that run down the Mall. The excitement is mounting…
All that remains now is to sort out the question of pants. I’ve been experimenting with the right underwear to see me through the big day on my various long runs. Noting that will rub, chaff, chap or generally annoy. There will be enough of that in other parts. I settled on the black lycra M&S and have taken them on several pre-race outings and found them most acceptable. They were carefully laid out with the rest of the vital kit. But I can’t find them. They’ve done a runner. I am now facing up to the awful realisation, a mere 10 hours before the off, that I will have to run the Marathon in my old Bridget Jones. Yes big girls cotton ones. I can’t tell you how much this is upsetting my psyche. Its not right. If it all goes wrong, I’ll blame it on the pants.

So Close I can Touch It…

2009-04-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

The final 20 mile training run under my belt now and the race is so close I can touch it – almost. Last weekend’s long run was done in the rain and although the route was the same it felt like harder work that last week. Maybe the sunshine makes a difference – certainly running with rivulets of water running down your back isn’t pleasant – I hope it doesn’t rain on the day. Bright sunshine won’t be easy either unless I borrow some sunglasses as the route appears to be running in to the sun for most of the way. According to the training schedules we are now into ‘tapering’ where we start winding down to the big day. Will go for a ‘medium’ run of 10-12 miles on Saturday and then the next big run will be the real things. I’m excited but nervous. Will I do it? I dreamt last night that I was so slow that everyone else had finishes and the route was tidied up and although I kept asking people which way to go, no-one knew and I got very cross! I hope that doesn’t happen… On the bright side the fundraising is going really well. We raised an incredible £557 at our Book Sale in the village which was far more than I ever hoped – people were so kind and generous. Everyone also seemed to enjoy themselves, browsing through the books, having coffee and croissants or the delicious cakes Millie helped me make and enjoying chatting. We had a decent trade from passing walkers who couldn’t believe their luck that they could enjoy a sit down, look at the books, take refreshment and make a call of nature!! We billed the hours as 10.30-4.00pm but the first customers came at 9.45am and the last left around 5.20 and we had a steady stream all day. It was a superb Team Broom effort and all the family helped in their valuable ways – just shows what you can achieve when you put your mind to it. Over the next few days there will be a few short raining runs and lots of planning – can’t go forgetting anything vital like trainers, race number or jelly babies – I expect that will be the next bad dream!! I’m going to get my race top printed with my name and ‘For Penelope’ so that people can cheer me on when the going gets tough – as it inevitably will. Everyone says the last six miles is the hardest. Perhaps I’ll try doing that first?..

Knock Kneed and Knackered

2009-04-07T05:21:00.000-07:00

I’m a knock-kneed knackered old nose bag and its official. After this morning’s 'bio mechanical gait analysis' I now know that my ankles roll in, my arches drop, my knees knock, my pelvis tilts, my hips sink, my tummy and bottom stick out, my spine curves, my shoulders droop and I waddle like a duck. In fact the only thing straight about me is my face. In fact its a miracle I can run at all let alone 26 miles. But by seeking the advice of a reputable podiatrist, everything can be made better. By putting these little wedgy things in my shoes, I will stand straight, tummy and bottom in, spine straight, hips aligned, knees straight and ankles and arches all in the right place. My stride will longer, my steps springy and I will be taller. Naturally, I now think this man is a miracle maker and I don’t care how much these little wedgy things cost (rather more than insoles) because for me, it’s worth it. Gullible, moi? Seriously it does make a difference so fingers crossed it will help get me round. Saturday’s long run turned out to be better than expected. I was reluctant to set out, finding every excuse not to go, putting the washing on, nipping to the shop, fiddle faddling about. But I did set out eventually and the weather was much better than expected – in fact it turned out to be a beautiful morning. As I yomped up the lane in the sunshine from the house a blue tit was in a tree singing his heart our for a mate – I think he was rather hoping for something more exciting that a flat footed forty-something female, but nevertheless I greeted him and he lifted my spirits. The route I took proved to uplifting too - it was a perfect spring morning, just right for running with a cool breeze, the air filled with the song of sky-larks, spring flowers everywhere, the blackthorn in blossom and the hawthorn leaves just coming out. The Cotswolds were at their best with clear views as I made my way up hill and down dale. At one point I had a long fairly steep incline having gone through the Windrush Valley and turned back towards Bourton on the Water. I had stern words with myself and tried to tackle it with a slow plodding run up the hill. As I neared the top, hating every step, a huge truck thundered down the rural single track lane – with ‘Never Despair’ emblazoned across its front – I took this as personal message and it made me laugh – and I made it to the top!! I also managed to run the last mile and half down the relatively flat lane towards home – which was a first for my long runs. So the refuelling strategies – jelly babies and bananas - are working for me. I completed 20 miles – not fast and I didn’t run all the way (some hills are just too big) but I did it. Yes, I was knackered by the end but maybe, just maybe I can do it.

2009-03-30T03:01:00.000-07:00

Bruised Bananas and Cold Baths

Taking on board all the recent advice I planned Saturday’s ‘big one’ with some meticulously. Plenty of water all day Friday, whole-wheat spaghetti on Friday night, early alarm call Saturday morning followed by porridge and whole meal toast and off I set, not quite with a whistle and a skip but almost. I was carrying a somewhat heavy rucksack – two bottles, (one water one sport drink) one waterproof in case of rain, ear muffs in case of bothersome north wind, plasters, carb jells, jelly babies and bananas. This time, I was prepared! Lesson number one – don’t pack the bananas at the bottom of the rucksack unless you like bruised bananas – which I don’t. They also don’t like me as bruised bananas have an unfortunate side effect, although that could be my solution to the requirement for rocket fuel!! The eating plan definitely worked as I felt better for longer this time. I also consciously felt the effect of re-fuelling along the way. I did still have to walk the last two miles (mostly uphill which is my excuse) and it did take me a long time – but I did 18 1/2 miles. The route was also very hilly this – lots of up and down Cotswold hills – they are just impossible to avoid on this type of distance, but on the other hand they must be doing me some good. I had to get stern with myself around 13 miles as it would have been easy to give up or cut my route short – but I didn’t and carried on. Not much further on my family came past as they were going round the village putting up posters for our fundraising book sale – and they gave me a real boost – the next two miles seem to fly past. Hopefully that’s a good sign for the big day. Feet and legs held up well, although I did get some numbness on my right foot in my third and fourth toes again which disappeared after a while. I think I was compensating for it though as I had a very sore right edge to my right foot the day after the run (its fine today) so it must have taken a battering. I’ll check this out when I see the podiatrist tomorrow. I’ve also developed – how ironic is this – a case of athletes foot on my left foot – sure someone somewhere is having a laugh??? Have to try and stamp this one out pdq! Was a bit miffed when I eventually got home to find the family out at the pub and no key left for me – sat and talked to the hens for a while until they pitched up, rather sheepish! (hens do not like jelly babies by the way!). Then came the next great challenge – a stone cold bath. Now I know I am truly certifiable – no sane person would willingly lower tired and aching limbs into a welcoming and relaxing COLD bath! I took it for about four minutes – by which time everything in the water was blue and purple. But, it works. I had very little stiffness on Sunday, in fact the only niggle was the sore edge to my foot. I might even do it again – did I really say that?
One big motivator this week has been the incredible support from people who have already sponsored me and their great words of encouragement –it really does make a difference. School have been very supportive too with putting up posters for my Book Sale and sending a note home with the children. Less than four weeks to go now! If everything goes to plan, this weekend will see a 20 mile run in the bag – fingers crossed!

16 Miles - New Tactics Needed!

2009-03-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

Week commencing 23 March

I have now decided everyone else is right. I must be mad. I did the 16 miler on Saturday and it took 3 ½ hours and by the last mile I had nothing left to give - my legs just wouldn’t run, so I walked the last stretch home and then got very down – there’s another ten miles to add to that total!! Since then I’ve been going over and over tactics – what to change for this Saturday’s 18 miler? First I’ll try and go in the morning – I had to go in the afternoon because of family commitments and only had a doughnut for lunch two hours before I left – so maybe the fuel tank was a bit low. I took two carb jells – one at 8 miles and one at 12 miles – but didn’t notice any miraculous effect! They are such a disgusting experience – thick, slimy and tasteless (that was the lime flavour!) and have to be washed down with water or you’ll gag them all back up again – quite foul. I found bananas better on the long cycle ride so maybe I’ll try them instead on the next one. I think it’s really a question of steeling myself to add another two miles to the total each week now for the next three weeks – then I can start the tapering – I’m looking forward to that bit! I’ll also make sure I have a pasta dish the night before the long run and a decent breakfast and see if that makes a difference. Varying the route might help too – I’m beginning to hate some of these local hills! I don’t fancy running on main roads with no pavement so it’s a bit tricky. I’m also going to do some interval training on my short runs this week to try and work my heart more – everyone says that this is very good for marathon runners! I’m also advise that it’s a cold bath that’s needed after the long run and not a soak in a lovely hot one – so that’s another challenge!
At this stage the mental preparation is proving almost as tough as the physical preparation – it would be so easy to just to give up and say I’ll walk it. But I keep thinking about why I’m doing this and how important it is for me to honour baby Penelope’s memory on this way. I will do it, I will get round and I will finish on the same day as everyone else!!

Pre Marathon Social

2009-03-19T09:43:00.000-07:00

Week commencing 16 March

Two easy five milers and a ten miler last week. Feet holding up OK for far. Still getting them wet though as the plastic bags (any variety) just don’t work. Not washing my feet for over a week is proving a challenge too – invested in some Body Shop Peppermint Foot Cream to help!! The inserts felt very strange to start with but they DO make a difference – no shin pain for a start – I have always had shin pain when running and just thought it came with the territory of not being very good at it – so it’s a revelation for them not to hurt! I’m building up to a long run this Saturday so I’m really hoping they will hold out well – the next four weeks is critical to my training plan! On Saturday I went to London to meet the other runners for FSIDS for a pre-marathon social. It was great to meet the other runners. The reasons for running are all so compelling – three of us are running for friends who have lost babies but all the others have lost babies themselves. It was incredibly moving hearing their stories and so motivating – I just have to get to the finish as this is such an important cause.

Feet and Sleet

2009-03-10T03:17:00.001-07:00

Week Commencing March 2

Well the 5, 7/8 and long runs didn’t happen. My feet were still very sore on Wednesday when I set out for a five miler but only managed three – was worried that running would aggravate the problem so I cut short my circuit and emailed the team physio instead. She was very helpful and said don’t run this week but cross train instead. And see a podiatrist. So on Saturday I went for a swim whilst youngest was at ballet (at the same leisure centre) and swam as hard as I could for 45 minutes. I haven’t swum like that for years as when I go swimming it largely consists of bobbing up and down with a small child kidding myself it’s exercise when actually it’s nothing of the sort. I was also conscious of my one lens (yes the one eyed lens trick – works wonders – don’t knock it till you’ve tried it) and worried it might float away like my old gas permeable lenses used to in the pool. Of course I should have borrowed no. one daughter’s goggles but didn’t think of that – so when I got out of the pool I had one inflamed red eye (the not lensed one) and one OK eye, yippee the Cyclops look to add to my charm. The girls came and joined me after the 45 minutes and we spent another 45 minutes playing in the pool – no. two daughter has decided after six and half years that she will swim after all and so there was much jumping in, doggie paddle and underwater swimming. On Sunday I knew I had to replace the long run with something similar and my running book puts cycling down as 50% of the effort of running. So I reckoned if I cycled 32 miles that would be equivalent to a 16 mile run. Using ‘ mapmyrun’ I worked out I could ride to Lechlade and back and spend only 4 miles on a main road So I got the bike out, spouse pumped up the tyres and off I went on Sunday morning in the brisk spring sunshine. Sadly it didn’t stay that way. A gale blew up and by the time I was a third through the ride it has started raining. By the time I got to Lechlade the rain was horizontal and the wind as bad. My hands and feet were numb with cold. On the way back it hailed then sleeted for most of the way. I lost my sense of humour around Westwell and had to fighting ringing for a rescue. Then I saw a lone runner coming towards me walking forlornly, red faced and very miserable. Must be training for the marathon I thought, “Morning” he said through the hail “Lovely today isn’t it” That made me laugh and gave me the determination to carry on – I’m not the only mad b*gger out here. When I got home – after 3 ½ hours – I was so cold I couldn’t tell if the bath was hot or cold – but I soon thawed out and was fine – if a little tired!! On Monday it was off to the podiatrist and the whole new world of feet and posture. I now have two very attractive surf-board-like pads (well at least that’s what my mid-wife called them) strapped to my feet and this will make everything fine. I will stand up straight, my legs and knees will be straight, my toes won’t go numb, my shoulder and hip won’t hurt and I will run faster, more efficient and enjoy it more. It won’t help my pelvic floor though – I did ask. I’m supposed to not get them wet so tied two plastic bags round my ankles for the shower and amazingly managed to get more water in the right bag than was in the whole of the rest of the shower! So that didn’t work – will have to work out a plan B. I’m off to try out the new feet with an ‘easy’ five miler later. Fingers crossed.

2009-03-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

Weeks commencing February 23 and March 2
A reasonable week with a three mile run on Monday (rest day was Sunday), a sluggish 5 miles on Wednesday, a good 5 miler on Friday (did I really say that) and then a 14+ long run on Sunday. The weather on Sunday morning was lovely – almost spring like and I chose a tougher route. This was the first long run without a serious hill (serious hill = walk )so it was work all the way. I went up our hill and then a long way along the ridge on a single track lane before dropping into the valley the other end. The hills were slow inclines rather than steep hills. I saw some walkers and one very depressing runner, who leaped, like a young deer, over a stile and sprinted along the lane a short way and over the next stile and out across the field. I felt very inadequate. The walkers cheered me up, and then as I ran through a neat well kept estate farm there were some hens clucking about their business at the verge. “Morning girls” I called in empathy with them, thinking how idyllic they looked as they pecked at something on the road edge. As I got closer I realised they were pecking the heck out of one of their own – newly felled by a car or a fox I don’t know but certainly fresh. “Girls” I cried in shock “That’s your sister”! So much for hens preferring a vegetarian diet. This run I stuck closely to 8 x 2 splits, running eight minutes, then power walking 2 minutes. On the whole the long run was fine, my legs were fine, my lungs were fine my head was fine, the sports drink was OK but didn’t add anything very much and certainly didn’t perform as well as water. The problems was my feet hurt. This time the pain in my 3rd & 4th toes was not such as issue – although the numbness was also creeping into my left foot as well around 9/10 miles. From what I’ve read on the web, this problem can be alleviated by putting padding under the toes so next time I’ll do this and see if it works. I’m still running-in the new shoes so didn’t wear them for the long run, but this may have proved a big mistake. Towards the end of the run my limiting factor was the fact my feet were increasingly sore – on the soles of my feet, particularly the arches and particularly my right foot (although the left hurt too). By the end of the run I was consciously using the outside edge of my foot. By the time I had got home and recovered the feet were really sore. Three days later they are still sore and I’m now wondering what the best course of action is. Think I’ll email the team physio and see what she thinks. I’ve held off a training run so far this week as I don’t want to do more damage but I’ll try something tomorrow and see how I get on – I can’t afford to miss any weekend long runs as it's less than eight weeks until the Marathon. If I do the short run and it's worse I’ll have to swim instead so I don’t loose any fitness – I need every ounce I can get! Fingers crossed the new shoes have enough support and things are better on the next long run – if they are, I’ll go for 16 miles. It would be great if I can get in 5 and then 7/8 miles before then.

2009-02-23T08:03:00.000-08:00

Week commencing February 16
No excuses this week as the snow has melted but with several very busy days and half term to contend with I only managed two five mile runs in the week. I’m still finding it difficult to get through the initial ‘sludge’ of the run but am beginning to feel the benefit of increasing fitness. I don’t feel I’m running at all well as I have so little spring in my step and my stride is short – I think someone who knows about running technique would have a field day! Twice this week I was hoping to squeeze in a run as I got home earlier – but as it’s dark by 5.30pm there still isn’t long enough – the nights are drawing out though so it won’t be long before it’s possible (only possible though – who knows what my lily livered will power will dictate?) to go for a run early morning or early evening. This morning I left the shutters open at our bedroom window so that I could clock when it was light – but it was still very dark when the alarm went off at 6.20am – so no danger of worrying aobut early runs quite yet. This weekend saw the second big run – this time 13.5 miles out and back from home. I chose a route that I felt would be easier mentally – as the last mile and half was downhill. Even so that last mile and half was painful. My legs and lungs are building stamina but this time my feet really bothered me. My right toes are getting very painful around 8 miles and on this run the left toes also began to go numb and painful. I’m running on the outside edge of my foot to compensate but I know this isn’t a good idea so I need to try and understand what’s happening and what I can do to avoid it. I got some new running shoes on Friday so will take them out for a trial run on Monday and see if things are any better. Apart from the toes the run was OK – although it takes a great deal of self motivation to keep going. I’m still running/walking, managing 20 minutes running for two minutes walk break in the early stages and more like 10 minutes later on – especially as later on was uphill – I had to walk the very steep part of the hill again. It took me 2 hours 45 minutes to complete the distance – I was disappointed as I was hoping for 2.30. I know that I have to keep going and increase both the distance and the time on my feet each week to build up to the race distance. I’m trying to do more speed work on the short runs in the hope that this will build stamina. Water rationing was better this time as I knew I had to save some for the top of the hill – it worked out just right this time. I’m still worried about taking on board fuel during the run and need to find out some more aobut this. It was also sunny on Saturday morning and I got quite hot – I’m dreading the day being very warm!. There were buzzards circling overhead, birds chattering excitedly in the early spring sunshine and I spotted a couple of young muntjack deer in one of the woods I passed. I also spotted another runner – this is a first – he looked very experienced, shorts, singlet and a good sweat up – and encouragingly dispensed the following wise words – “Doesn’t get any easier does it?”! I’m please to report that on Sunday – the day after the long run – I wasn’t as sore as the week before and found moving about much easier – just as well as there was plenty of walking chaperoning middle daughter around the Southbank for a concert. This week’s goal is to clock up three reasonable shorter runs and another 13.5 miler at the weekend. Fingers crossed the new shoes help.

2009-02-23T08:02:00.001-08:00

Week commencing February 9
Week four and progress again hampered by heavy snow – thick snow on the ground and pavements all week. Did a so called ‘easy’ five miler on Tuesday – but I’m having trouble with this word ‘easy’. When does a run get easy? So far me and the concept of an easy run are very far apart. Had to change course mid run as the pavements were so icy and slippery but did an interesting circuit round the town instead. Saw one other runner and he looked like a professional – he even had shorts on! Was overcome by meetings Wednesday and Thursday so went out again on Friday – the usual five miler this time and the pavements were much better – although still dodging the white stuff. Saturday did a 2 1/2 mile whilst youngest daughter was at ballet, with attempts to speed up in between trees – can only manage a short distance, but it’s a start. Beginning to think that these walking shoes of mine are not helping – must go and get some new running shoes – my old ones are worn paper thin on the soles so the power walking shoes at least offer some insulation from the pavement. Sunday was the big one – well the big one so far. Did just over 10 miles out and back from home. Was still blinded by the white of the fields and it was very cold. Had two cars run me off the road – I’m beginning to feel very warm toward those kind people who give way to runners and let us through – rather than having to leap into a fortnight-old pile of slush to avoid being run over! There are also those who obviously enjoy it when they drive through puddles and drench you from head to toe! Despite the cold, I did get very warm – what do you do with your top when you need to take it off??? This was also the first run where I ran out of water – I took 300ml but could have done with a drop more. I haven’t braved refuelling on a run yet as I’ve only just worked out how to avoid re-acquainting myself with my breakfast after five miles or so. This is something I’ll have to tackle as the runs get longer. The other main issue is a numbness in my right third and fourth toes which kicks in after five miles and is difficult to overcome – it hurts. It must be to do with the way that I run because I’ve had it before in both pairs of shoes and it gets very bothersome. I’m also getting a soreness at the top of my left shoulder blade – must be holding my head funny or something. None of this surprising since my ‘gait’ if that’s what you call it is very amateur and my technique non existent – the main issue is to get through the training without sustaining ongoing injury so that I can complete the marathon. The run itself was OK although I was very tired later in the day and the next day (today) my thigh muscles are very sore. I find the first 45 minutes of a run the hardest since everything feels so heavy and leaden – well I am heavy and leaden so that’s no surprise! I’m also beginning to find out about mental resolution – I have to keep having a stern word with myself to push me on. Of course I’m not running non stop yet and have frequent walk breaks – but I’m up to 20 minutes running 2 minutes walk break – starting again after the walk break is awful each time. I’m trying to tackle hills as I go round – but the big hill defeated me and I walked up it – got 1/3 of the way up but then gave up - next time I’ll try for a bit further. As I run I think about Dory in Finding Nemo – and repeat to myself ‘Just keep running, just keep running’. When I got back from the long run yesterday, Rosie looked very serious and asked: “Mummy I’m not being rude but when you’re running don’t your boobies keep bouncing up and down?” I explained about this wonderful contraption called a sports bar which is designed to keep them under control “Oh good” she said, “Otherwise they be wobbling about like jelly on a plate” Quite.

2009-02-03T08:09:00.000-08:00

Into week 3 now. I’d like to report that its getting easier but so far this week I’ve been grounded by snow. I hope it’s gone tomorrow because I need to get in an ‘easy’ five miler to keep up with the schedule. I say ‘easy’ because that what it says in the schedule. It seems to imply that there are different types of running – easy, steady, marathon pace even fartlek (actually many of my runs are farty does that count?)
I have only one pace which is very much flip flop running – no, I don’t run in flip flops but that’s the sound my feet make when they slap down on the road. Maybe I’m doing something wrong. I’m trying to get up on my toes more and inject more of a spring in my step. I select two trees some distance apart and try and put a spurt on between them. I think it’s paying off as it is getting easier – although the first 45 minutes of any run are not ‘easy’ at all. I’ve hear our local race horse trainer is finding times difficult and hasn’t got so many horses in her stable – maybe she’d have some advice for this old mare? I did four runs last week and will aim to do the same this week. The ‘easy’ five miler is definitely easier on the route out from the office than it is round home – hills are much tougher than the flat – but they must be good training! On Sunday I managed 61/2 miles and turned back when my face was being slashed by an iron-sharp east wind and my front was covered in snow – legitimate excuse I felt, although I reckon I could have done another mile if the weather wasn’t so bad. Eight miles is the target for this week’s long run. Still trying to work out what’s best to have for breakfast – three hours seems to the be the minimum time to have digestion well on the way and prevent re-entry problems. Porridge is top of the list at the moment.
As well as working on pace I’m trying to get my stride better – but it’s not easy with such very short legs. Actually I’m officially the smallest Mummy in The World – according to a pupil at my daughter’s school. I was collecting her from her classroom after school one day, when one of the boys in her class stood up from his chair at the back of the class room and pointed at me saying “That, is the Smallest Mummy in the Whole World” The teacher, assistant and I were so taken aback that none of us said anything for a moment whereupon my daughter also drew herself up to her full four year old height and said “Max that’s very rude of you to say that to my Mummy” at which point we all fell about laughing. I did assure everyone that although I am small everything works and is in the right place. I think. Except perhaps that stride of mine. Real runners have bounce and the energy seems to propel them forward – but I’m still to discover how.
I am enjoying the fresh air and being outside and it’s amazing what you see on various runs. Falcons, deer, hare and used condoms. Seen two of those on the wayside in Cheltenham and Bourton but thankfully not yet in our hamlet – although given the age profile of the village residents that might be deemed something of an achievement!

2009-01-28T05:55:00.000-08:00

Now into Week Two. Should be getting easier but the last two runs have been like running in treacle. Why is it that one day a run can feel Ok but the next it is dire? Saturday’s ‘long run’ was 1 hr 10 mins and I felt every step. The first obstacle was the sheet ice on the roads leading out of the village making getting up the hill like trying to skate uphill – impossible. Once on the road proper it was a case of dodging frozen puddles when faced with on coming vehicles – all the roads round us are single track and most cars drive like they at Silverstone – and certainly don’t expect to see a short, stumpy-legged puffing lady of a certain aged on the apex of the bend. More able runners jump nimbly, gazelle-like, to the verge and continue without interrupting their pace. But as the resemblance between me and a gazelle is somewhat difficult to spot, it’s all I can do to wobble out of the way, hoping I don’t fall over. Running down the middle of the road gets over the verge ice problem – but does making dodging racing cars more difficult. I was running 5 x 1 minute splits as last time – which worked really well – but this time felt much more difficult. I beginning to realise that breakfast is not a good idea before going for a run – since it spends the duration of the run trying to escape via the route through which it entered and I’ve decided this is not comfortable. I’ve left at least an hour after toast before setting out but this obviously doesn’t work for me. I think I’ll try no breakkie or a longer interval. The last run that felt good was mostly on the flat and that might be another challenge running round the area close to home – the Cotswolds by their very nature are hilly and no matter which route I take from home hills are a hazard. They make great warm ups – five minutes panting up the steep hill as you turn right out of our drive makes a great warm up session. But what come up must go down so the first stretch is a breeze – only to encounter the next hill as soon as the euphoria “I can run -I’m a runner” of the downhill flight is over. Before I know it I’m running in treacle again. I’m trying mind over matter and attempting to adopt the sort of eating hills stance our Landrover takes when gliding easily up hill. Bu the “I’m a Landrover” mantra is taking some time to work. This morning ‘my’ Landrover was more akin to a mighty Great Western Steam engine puffing, panting and blowing as it tried to consume the hill. Nothing graceful about this old steam engine tho – she almost expired halfway up the hill and walked the rest, only sputtering into life again on the flat past the chicken farm. And let’s face it, anyone, and I mean anyone, would speed up past the chicken farm at any time of year – it honks. It takes some determination to carry on under these circumstance – the plumber came round this morning to fix one of the showers – and laughed loud and heartily when I said I’d been for a run and am doing the London Marathon. I’ll show him.

Getting Started....

2009-01-22T07:21:00.000-08:00

22 January and I've just completed the first week's training for the London Marathon on April 26. I find myself taking part quite by accident - and I've only known since last Thursday. I applied to run it last summer but didn't get a place and was quite content to ride it out until next year as my sister and I are planning on doing the New York in November to celebrate her Milestone birthday. So I was quite caught by surprise when the phone rang from my chosen charity (FSID but more about why later) to say they had had someone drop out and did I want the place? I was so excited I said yes right away and only later started to wonder about the training. Like all good couch potatoes, I've taken reading about training very seriously these last seven days. I've studied the Runners World 'Get You Round' plan and blown the dust off my Jeff Galloway 'Book of Running'. I even got the trainers out and ran/walked for 45 minutes on Sunday. Didn't feel as bad as it might have done. This week I've done more serious studying and have drafted out a training plan - I'm all for those who say it's better to train 3/4 times a week rather than 6 out of 7! I've also been mapping out routes - running is one thing but where to run when you live in the middle of the sticks with no pavements or street lighting is quite another matter. I'm going to have to be ingenious with how I get in the training runs - my days are busy enough as they are with three young children, a full time job and a house to run (not to mention the hens!). Spouse is being supportive - this morning he did the school run so that I could go for a run - this time a good 55 mins. I'm going with the run walk method (this short legged, under 5 foot mini mum is not aiming to break any records) and I'm training on 5 minutes run, one minutes walk. From what I've read, a key element is building up stamina on the road, getting used to pounding away on the pavements for all those hours. So, the plan is this. Three short runs on weekdays (50 mins, five mins warm up and five mins cool down) shortish run on Saturday (21/2 miles) building up intervals - nothing sophisticated - I choose a tree, and another one, and aim to push myself a little faster between those two points. On Sunday I'll do the longer run, building up time rather than focusing on distance. If I can I'll pop another longer run in during the week. Sounds a grand plan, but all sorts can go wrong in a busy life! I'll use the blog as a training log.
Now for the reason why I applied to do the London Marathon in the first place and why I'm running for FSID. One of my very best friends, gave birth to her second, much wanted, daughter on 11 May 2008. At the age of 43, the arrival of baby Penelope was a blessed gift. After a completely normal pregnancy and birth, baby Penelope had perfect Apgar scores and was full of life. Tragically just hours later she fell into a deep contented sleep after a breast feed and never woke up. She passed away at five days old. Her death is completely inexplicable and no reason could be found by the doctors caring for her as to why it might have happened. The blow to her family cannot be underestimated, but I am astounded at how strong they are and how they are taking each day as it comes and getting on with life, as far as they can, despite the devastating grief they feel. I am so proud of them that I feel I must do something positive to help towards finding out the causes of sudden infant death and running the London Marathon so close the first anniversary of Penelope’s death is a great way of raising money for relevant research, showing how much I care and honouring her memory. I have never run a marathon before and this is a great personal challenge for me (10k is my normal distance) but I will give it the best I possibly can. So that's why I'm running. It's going to be a long journey but it will be worth in in more ways than one.
And I can't help thinking that with my short stubby legs, running a marathon for me is more like a 52 miler endurance run isn't it?