tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63622244663506056242024-03-14T02:16:26.860+00:00Crandon RunsRunning and eating my way through life.CrandOnRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02559156626845480943noreply@blogger.comBlogger132125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-86678669864913093372019-05-01T16:52:00.003+01:002019-05-01T16:52:48.841+01:00BOSTON MARATHON 2019Five years ago, for me running the Boston Marathon was just a pipe dream. I'd been away for a running weekend to Edinburgh with my friend Ellie and on the long car journey home I'd said I'd wanted to run it. I researched the qualifying times and sent her this message:<br />
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I thought I would never get there. After leaving it a little while, then spending three years seriously targeting a Boston Qualifying time, (and getting one twice) on Monday 15th April 2019 I finally toed the start line at the Boston Marathon. Work for what you wish for eh?!<br />
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Boston is special. From the moment you land at the airport you realise the whole city has marathon fever. It is EVERYWHERE. Total running geekdom and I loved it.<br />
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Although my journey had been a long one of over three years, my training this year had not gone at all to plan. By week 7 I was flying! Training was going well and I was feeling very strong but knew I still had a long way to go to get a PB at Boston. And then injury struck and something odd was going on with my hip. We're still not entirely sure what it was, but with my trusty physio off work having badly broken his wrist, I was left to seek alternative help and did the classic runner thing of pretending I was <i>FINE</i>.<i> </i>I got physio, I carried on running, I got more injured, I did yoga, I got more physio. Nothing helped. In what I thought was the final straw, 2 miles into a very slow 4 miler I called it and had to admit injury defeat. I limped two miles home, angry and in a LOT of pain from my hip and glutes. I was in agony. We'd already booked a trip to a little cottage in Scotland for the following week and I, very uncharacteristically, left my trainers at home and did ABSOLUTELY no running to see if this would help. Frustrated that it didn't feel any better, or worse, after a week off, I did what any injured runner would do and had a big old strop. Another one. Luckily by then my fab physio was tentatively back at work and was able to see me. Phew. He worked his magic and I left feeling a lot better physically and with a new fire inside.<br />
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But by this time I'd already missed a lot of training. I knew I could get round the course whilst also knowing a PB was out of the question. But still I looked on the bright side. Sure, I'd only have time now to run one 20 miler before the big day; of course I was mightily under prepared; but I WAS STILL RUNNING THE BOSTON MARATHON. I'd made a decision not to put pressure on myself, NOT go out at PB pace and regret it later with a sufferfest of a run, and to enjoy the fact that I was running my massive five year goal race! I would leave my ego at bag check and my goal was to finish strong and enjoy this special race. Knowing when its not worth suffering is a liberating lesson that I only wish I'd learnt without getting injured.<br />
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So there it was. A plan was in place and off we went to the States. The bright side of the injury meant I could enjoy Boston before the run. Yes please I will have a glass of local beer the night before the race. Yes, thank you lets go and explore and not worry about ruining my precious marathon legs.<br />
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The weather reports the week before had been predicting storms much like last year. I went ahead and packed MANY different outfits for all weather eventualities. The morning of the marathon we were treated to torrential downpours and thunder storms. Im talking rivers through the streets type weather! I dutifully threw on an old waterproof poncho and made my way across Boston to bag check and to meet Zulma from the Harriers who was also running. It was tipping it down! We screamed, celebrated the fact that today was the day we were actually running Boston, then boarded a true American school bus which took us all the way out to Hopkinton to the Athletes Village at the start. During the ride the rain cleared and it was pretty warm once we arrived.<br />
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Once there I was dying for a pre race wee. We made our way to the toilets as had all 30,000 other runners it seemed, the queues were HUGE! Too stressful we decided nature weeing was the way forward. Is there a better use for old space blankets than protecting one's modesty? I think not.<br />
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I also met up with running super star <a href="https://runslikeadog.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Cathy</a> who I've met a few times at other races. We sat in a large damp tent, caught up, had a chat and before too long it was our turn to make our way to the Blue start line. They call you up in your waves and the walk to the start is about a mile away and full of nervous excitement and chatter. It was like being an Olympian! Another quick wee and then it was time to go. This was it! I was running the Boston Marathon!<br />
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I had a plan in place which took into account the undulating course. Miles 1-5 I planned to hold back and keep it really steady as these miles are all downhill and I knew it would be easy to get carried away with fresh legs and all the excitement. I happily let people pass as I took it at what I thought was a steady pace, only to note that I was actually running at PB pace - not steady enough! Those downhills are deceptive. At mile 2 a man next to me clocked his watch. 'TOO FAST' he said. 'Me too!' I agreed and made more of an effort to slow down. These first few miles through the towns of Hopkinton and Ashland were great. The excitement was palpable and I had a few little chats with people about the run whilst also appreciating the pockets of support along the route and admiring the American style houses!<br />
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Mile 5 - 16 my plan was to keep it steady and by this point I'd decided I didn't really care what pace I was running. I'd read these miles were flat. This is a big fat LIE. Undulating is how I would describe these miles if I was being generous. There was very little let up and the heat and humidity were getting worse. By mile 6 I was mentally struggling a bit but broke this part into little sections: get to Jamie at 6.5 miles; get to 10; get to Halfway; then get to 16. Thankfully it worked. I spied Jamie in the crowd and ran up to him for a quick kiss as we waved and screamed at each other! Rejuvenated I ran on with a spring in my step as a women in front turned around and yelled 'That was AWESOME!' Haha, I know love!<br />
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The next big highlight was Wellesley and in particular, Wellesley College. It's tradition for the students of this all girls college to come out in droves to support the marathon and give the runners a kiss. The 'scream tunnel' as its dubbed could be heard before it was seen. Spine tingling, I ran through it realising I would never experience this again, so I lapped it up! I ran over to the side of the road and continuously high fived for about half a mile. I was laughing out loud it was so brilliant. THIS is what marathon running is about - having a laugh and enjoying it!<br />
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Next goal was halfway. I don't know my splits as I wasn't really paying attention but I knew I'd be on for well under 4 hours at this point which I was happy with. By 16 miles I realised I'd be around 3.45 which I was dead chuffed with after my injury. Miles 16-21 give you the infamous Newton Hills - four hills exactly at the point in the marathon you don't want them, finishing with Heartbreak Hill. I'd broken these miles into 1 easy followed by 2 hard miles which would take me to mile 24. Whilst the 'easy' wasn't quite a true description, breaking this part of the route up like this really really helped. When I was struggling I just focused on getting to the next 'easy' mile and reminded myself that this was one of the 'hard' miles. The hills were relentless, not too steep but so long and unrelenting and by this time your legs are so so tired. I lost count of the hills and as I pushed myself up and up I wasn't sure if I was on Heartbreak Hill or not. Thankfully at the top a woman held a sign saying 'Heartbreak is behind you'. The relief that I'd made it to the top, that the hardest miles were behind me, combined with a woman looking me right in the eye shouting 'SARAH YOU GOT THIS!' made me truly well up. The emotion! I gave myself a good talking to, swallowed down the lump in my chest and told myself I could cry at the finish line, but not yet.<br />
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From here it was the home straight and mostly downhill which sounds great but I knew my quads wouldn't like it too much at this point. Luckily from the Newton Hills the crowds really increase and they definitely carried me through the next few miles. I knew Jamie was waiting for me again at around mile 24 so I spent this entire mile looking for him in the crowds. Just as I was about to hit mile 25 I thought I'd missed him. I was so bummed but realised looking for him had really distracted me for a whole mile so mile 24 went by really quickly! Then as always happens whether you're spectating or running a marathon, as soon as you think you've missed them there they are! I spotted him in the crowd just before mile 25 and ran over to him. This was just the lift I needed and I was ecstatic that I'd seen him and that there was just over 1 mile to go! I saw the enormous Citgo sign, lapped up the amazing crowds and waited and waited for Hereford street and the famous turn into the home straight. Through an underpass and really into Boston now and it's non-stop cheering crowds. Then here it was, the turn!<br />
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Right on Hereford, left on Boylston.<br />
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I could see the finish line, still a good half a mile away. I kept my head. Kept pushing and then I was into the finish line funnel flanked by stadium seats. This was it. The moment I'd been dreaming of for so many years. Getting there had been years of hardwork and determination. Training for it had been sporadic, frustrated by injury and self doubt. And yet here it was. It was happening. I knew this was the only chance I would ever get to do this so I was determined to enjoy it.<br />
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I threw my arms in the air, grinned my head off and ticked over the finish line in a respectable 3.46.<br />
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Immediately, I burst into huge sobbing tears as always.<br />
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Boston, done.<br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-33528012564418554922018-06-06T16:59:00.001+01:002018-06-06T16:59:08.255+01:00Hen Do parkrunI know I know, getting up early on your Hen Do to go and run 5k is not a normal thing to do. I do know this! However when my lovely sisters asked what I wanted to do during my big send off before getting married in July, my only request was that we didn't do anything we wouldn't want to do during a normal weekend. I have zero interest in decorating a pineapple, sewing my own pants or painting pottery (all legit Hen Do activities folks) on any normal weekends, so why would I want to do it on my Hen Do and make all my friends suffer along with me? No thanks. So I decided that we would all suffer by running with raging hangovers instead! Much better!<br />
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Doing a parkrun meant that we were doing one of my favourite ever things - running! And doing this with my best pals who might not have run one before, and potentially introducing some of them to the wonder that is parkrun, was just the icing on the cake. The early morning start also meant we weren't lying around festering in our hangovers all morning. No, we were warriors, sweating out last night's booze instead.<br />
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Dressed in obligatory matching t-shirts and wearing a rather fetching sash, badges and a beautiful and not-at-all-tacky veil, we arrived via minibus at Bath Skyline parkrun. Everyone was SO friendly there and loads of volunteers came to ask me about the wedding and wish me congratulations. Out of 14 of us, 8 did the parkrun while the others supported. I'm not going to lie, I don't even remember getting to bed the previous night so waking up early to go run I was feeling more than delicate. I had no plans to run fast and my only goal for this particular parkrun was to not vom at any point.<br />
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The course was beautiful, starting off under a canopy of trees and incorporating lots of trails through fields, paths and with a stunning view of Bath at points. As always, the marshals were really friendly and encouraging. I ran the whole way with my sister Katie, which was great as we had a lovely chat the whole way and I was able to watch out while she did a nature wee and narrowly avoided getting stung on the bum by stingy nettles. Sisterly love eh?<br />
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After we finished my mum was jsut behind us, so I ran back to find her and finish together. She was amazing - this was the furthest she's ever run and she did brilliantly! As did everyone.<br />
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Run done, we went straight for some classic post run re-hydration - strong bloody mary's and a bottomless brunch. The early start meant we were home by midday for a lovely nap before the shenanigans continued. This is probably my favourite parkrun experience EVER and one of the best parts of my hen do! Thanks for coming ladies!CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-27701149173600651292018-04-26T16:42:00.003+01:002018-04-26T16:42:36.822+01:00The London Marathon 2018 It is no secret the I love the London Marathon. Like, really really love it. I've done it three times now and it is just the best! I love the circus that surrounds it, the TV coverage, the anticipation and of course, the amazing crowds. <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2017/04/bqing-at-london-marathon-2017.html" target="_blank">Last year</a> it gave me my first Boston Qualifier time, but I knew I could run faster, so this year I decided to try something I'd been toying with for a while: I decided to run two marathons in two weeks.<br />
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My plan was to get the time I'd been working for at <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/manchester-marathon-and-finally.html" target="_blank">Manchester Marathon</a>, and then use my GFA place to also run London for...you know...fun! A type of celebratory victory lap if it all went well in Manchester. So after securing a PB of 3.30 two weeks ago, my aim for Sunday in *that* heat was to just enjoy myself. Something I had to keep reminding myself of mid run.<br />
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So how was it? Well in one word HOT. In two, hot and hard. Really really hard. Definitely the hardest race I've ever done.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High fives all round at mile 20ish</td></tr>
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Running for fun is great and Saturday night before the big day I felt really chilled. The only stress I really felt was when I realised how relaxed and unfocused on the marathon I was. Sunday morning, I made my way to the Green start and found some shade to stand in while I waited to get into my pen. I knew I'd be in the sun for far longer than I'd like whilst running, so didn't want to be in it waiting to set off too. Even walking across Blackheath before 9am I was warm, and was dressed just in the shorts and vest I was running in. Certainly no need for extra clothes to keep warm at the start this time. I made my way into my pen and bumped in to Sarah of <a href="http://goldilocksrunning.com/" target="_blank">Goldilocks running</a>. Having chatted back and forth all week we suddenly realised we were stood right next to each other waiting to set off. We had a little chat and before we knew it the Queen was on the big screen and pressing that button to get us started.<br />
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As always it was busy, but the heat was there even from the start. I was so glad I'd made the last minute decision to stick my visor on. At 4 miles I thought, 'there is still 22 to go!' This was remarkably different to Manchester when I couldn't believe we were already at the 18 mile mark. That seemed a looong way away this time.<br />
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I ran on feel and started off at about 7.45 minute miles which I knew was too fast but I knew I'd slow down in the heat and so figured if I wanted to run at that pace at that moment I could! I was glad to get to Cutty Sark and see Jamie at our designated lamppost in Greenwich around 7 miles, but after that Tower Bridge seemed like a lifetime away. I usually find the first half of the marathon fun and passes quickly, but I really found myself mentally challenged from around this point. In a way running without a 'goal' other than to enjoy it, was really tough especially on a baking hot day. At times I wondered why I was doing it. Although there was no time pressure, this also meant there was nothing to focus on and dig deep for. I found this really hard. I decided my goal was to get a GFA time in sub 3.45. During the race my goal varied depending on how hard it got. Other goals included: finish without stopping, finish in one piece and just GET THAT MEDAL. I'm glad to say I managed them all.<br />
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As we turned the corner to Tower Bridge my spirits soared. It's always just so amazing running over it and always gives me goosebumps. I figured this was the race to get a selfie on Tower Bridge so I whipped out my phone and soaked up the cheers from the crowds. It was brilliant as always. There really is no other feeling like it, it's like you're a running rockstar and everyone is there just for you!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tower Bridge</td></tr>
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People were really affected by the heat and I saw a lot of runners needing help and support on course. It was hard to keep your head in it all and really worrying too. My tactic was to grab a bottle at every water stop and either take a sip or swill my mouth out, and then drench myself with water all over. Whenever a little patch of shade appeared everyone ran over to that side of the road, and I was glad I had slapped on my factor 50. Sunburn AND marathon legs the following day would be too awful!<br />
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I knew my Harrier pals were on the course at around mile 14 so I focused on getting to them. They were leaning over the barriers screaming their heads off and I soaked it up, waving and blowing them kisses! Seriously anything to get you through! The race then became 'just get to your next supporters'. I was once again so thankful to have Jamie at all our usual spots on the course. I really wanted to walk and thought I would get to mile 17 and stop and see Jamie and our friend Catherine and tell them how hard it was. 'Just get there and you can walk' I promised myself. But then I realised that they wouldn't allow that and would urge me on, and if I did walk it would just prolong the race. So many people were walking in the heat and the buildings of Canary Wharf offered little shade. The run became a real battle but my spirits were high-ish. I ran through every shower rainbow, waved at everyone who called my name and smiled at all the cameras I saw. The miles took ages and even at mile 24 knowing there were just 2 more miles to go didn't help. The support as always was amazing though. I smiled and waved and thumbed up at everyone who cheered for me. I read somewhere that smiling when you're in pain really helps and I did this A LOT on Sunday and I can confirm that it works - it does lift your spirits! The crowds always help push you on in a marathon but on Sunday they were a lifeline and I was so lucky to have supporters all along the course.<br />
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Finally I was at mile 24, 25 then I saw Big Ben and soon there was just 800m to go. I pushed as much as I could, raised my hands in the air and ran over the finish line. A medal was hung around my neck and as usual I burst into tears. It was done. I was elated with a GFA of 3.44.04 especially in the heat and just two weeks after PBing at Manchester.<br />
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London you were amazing as always, but goodness you were a hot little challenge this year.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing the finish line</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDxwsBOCkRV4FV7-lVKDKYOj5kavHHLneqiU7uawZ0fsloX3rO31t0y6EPRPXEz4UhfWzykybmiF208313c_NDNMuWaRmrOPToN62rKuj5n11Mu5TiLdWkdvCpz4ugTRP5DHE7-iZT1WD/s1600/Medal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDxwsBOCkRV4FV7-lVKDKYOj5kavHHLneqiU7uawZ0fsloX3rO31t0y6EPRPXEz4UhfWzykybmiF208313c_NDNMuWaRmrOPToN62rKuj5n11Mu5TiLdWkdvCpz4ugTRP5DHE7-iZT1WD/s1600/Medal.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8MB2MEQToSF7CdqT2C_crZIHnHw6f1bxAC2wvCDqc51QLSEoQTaDCjQKIsHzT7GKJudqhoMODOD9AnGm0P9hVJHR5Gd3nWXVRsZLO8wK3GpKgniYCRQl7Bn66T0cJgT14ORSIETmfDNs/s1600/Champion+supporter.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8MB2MEQToSF7CdqT2C_crZIHnHw6f1bxAC2wvCDqc51QLSEoQTaDCjQKIsHzT7GKJudqhoMODOD9AnGm0P9hVJHR5Gd3nWXVRsZLO8wK3GpKgniYCRQl7Bn66T0cJgT14ORSIETmfDNs/s1600/Champion+supporter.JPG" /></a></div>
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-31152136158288943302018-04-11T17:00:00.001+01:002018-04-11T17:34:11.066+01:00Manchester Marathon and Finally Achieving 3.30After last year's <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2017/04/bqing-at-london-marathon-2017.html" target="_blank">London Marathon</a> I knew I wanted to run Manchester this year. I was still searching for that elusive 3.30 time and was hoping the flat course and smaller running field would help me get it, before running London Marathon with my Good For Age time for 'fun' a couple of weeks later.<br />
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The day was absolutely brilliant! I kept trying to channel positivity and not get too stressed before hand and it seemed to work. Having run Manchester a <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/manchester-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">few years ago</a> I really thought this would be a head down and get on with it type race, but the support was amazing and the atmosphere on course was much better than in other years. It was just great. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teamwork makes the dream work</td></tr>
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My training had been quite different to last year. I'd logged fewer miles but ran with more purpose - thinking quality not quantity was the aim of the game. I also started doing more strength training (hello early morning Kettlebells) and I even wrote a race plan the day before which I really thought about and stuck to. This was quite a revelation for me and really helped me focus and stick to my guns during the race. My plan was go out steady at 8ish minute miles until 20 miles. Then see how I felt and push it if I felt strong. I used the Compete training journal which has loads of good advice and tips for competing and racing. I read how racing with integrity means racing to your plan and that really stuck with me on the day. I also didn't drink for over 8 (loooong) weeks and really concentrated on my nutrition and sleep the two weeks before the race.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who run the world?</td></tr>
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But by far the biggest change in this years marathon was running with my pals Hannah and Heather from my running club. Hannah and I had talked about running together a few weeks before and were glad when Heather joined us too on the day. We also had fellow Harrier Anne join us mid race who absolutely stormed her run! She kept saying how relaxed we were and we were like, 'but Anne, you're running with us!' Having such strong ladies around me meant I didn't let myself off the hook at any point as I needed to keep up pace with them. I also didn't have any of the negative thoughts which usually plague me during the marathon and I just kept believing I was going to do it. </div>
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Three or four ladies running together in the same vest really has its advantages and at about the 16 mile mark I noticed we were getting loads of attention from the crowds. People kept yelling 'Looking strong ladies' and giving us loads of support. It was brilliant. Running together also meant we had each others' supporters to look out for along the course, as well as our own. I had prearranged with Jamie where he would be and I managed to see him at three different spots which was brilliant. Supporters are such a huge part of the day, as well as being really understanding and supportive throughout the the whole training cycle. We were also lucky enough to have a few fellow harriers cheering us all on too.</div>
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Running together meant we could have a bit of a chat and the miles seemed to fly by. Then came the 'quiet' miles where it was head down time. I could see Hannah was focused and she pushed on at mile 18 but I knew I wasn't ready to do that yet and thought of my plan. So I stuck to it and waited until about 21 miles until I pushed on. Mile 25 was torture but the crowd were brilliant, really calling your name and pushing you onwards. I could feel cramp threatening but managed to keep it at bay until then end. I thought I had time in the bank but not quite enough. Finally mile 26 came and then I could see the finish. I pushed as much as I could with my legs screaming at me and trotted over the line in 3.30.06 - exactly what I'd aimed for. It took over three years but I finally got there. A new PB, my second BQ and another London GFA. ELATED! I didn't even care about those 6 seconds...</div>
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I definitely could not have done it without all the support on course and without Hannah, Heather and Anne. We were a right little badass group and this is one marathon with memories I will savour for a long long time. </div>
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Manchester you were BRILLIANT.</div>
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Now, to London!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line hugs</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best running club in the world</td></tr>
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CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-48930533201880472122017-10-10T17:29:00.003+01:002017-10-10T17:29:58.133+01:00Royal Parks Half Marathon I've been wanting to run the Royal Parks Half marathon since I started running! 6 years and 22 half marathons later, I finally got the wooden leaf medal I have been coveting, after receiving an unexpected ballot place earlier this year.<br />
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Back when I entered I'd thought this race would be a good 'end of season' run to try and get a PB. But whilst I have been running over the Summer, I haven't been doing it with any great focus. I've been clocking up the miles sure, including a <a href="https://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2017/09/marathon-du-medoc-2017.html" target="_blank">very slow and very fun marathon</a>, but have been running for fun rather than to nail a PB. I've mostly been enjoying some off time after <a href="https://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2017/04/bqing-at-london-marathon-2017.html" target="_blank">the marathon</a> which extended all through Summer, knowing that marathon season will be once again looming on the horizon pretty soon.<br />
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So with all that in mind, I knew a PB wasn't in order and rather than killing myself to try and get a time I wouldn't achieve, nor deserved, I decided to just have fun and enjoy the race I've been wanting to be run for so long.<br />
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It's a pretty big race with around 16000 entrants and as we walked into Hyde Park towards the start, the day was looking great weather wise - sunny with a little chill. Perfect. The start was HEAVING and as always there were not enough portaloos. There was a great atmosphere though with lots of food stalls, charity tent and hundreds of thousands of runners milling about. After queuing for ages for a wee I made it to my start pen with just minutes to go - with a wave off from Jamie, I scaled the fence to get me into my correct pen and within minutes we were off!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buck Palace in the distance</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q5euxJg8FFdVaWumDVNlYFbDdi3AQfIzLAXqySEebWIReItGe2aLkxoQHEfRCRuLxyEUm7uofhvK7ZZCPXso7c8TmZOu8XwPGApYfA1Vqzix242mkzJl0D-LJKv-SG2TE_yax1p-FCiH/s1600/Running+down+The+Mall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q5euxJg8FFdVaWumDVNlYFbDdi3AQfIzLAXqySEebWIReItGe2aLkxoQHEfRCRuLxyEUm7uofhvK7ZZCPXso7c8TmZOu8XwPGApYfA1Vqzix242mkzJl0D-LJKv-SG2TE_yax1p-FCiH/s320/Running+down+The+Mall.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running down The Mall</td></tr>
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The route was brilliant! You start and finish in Hyde Park, with the beginning of the run leading you out to the sites of London. Through Green Park you run past Buckingham Palace, around St James' Park with Big Ben standing proudly in the distance, past Horse Guards Parade and through Admiralty Arch. Basically tick tick ticking off all the London sites - this route is a tourist's dream. From here you run out towards Downing Street (which you totally miss because lets be honest it's just a street which is difficult to see when you're not face up against the gates), then back on yourself and up the Strand. Here again you do a little out and back before running around Trafalgar Square and back through Admiralty Arch up The Mall. It was here I got a little over excited and noticed I was running at 6.50 minute mile pace! Ooops - it was because I was absolutely loving running around London on nice quiet streets and seeing all the sites, and also because I could see the Palace! Running down The Mall in a reverse of the London Marathon finish was giving me all kinds of feels and making me feel quite emotional. It was GREAT. Back past the Palace and waving to the runners on the other side of the road, we ran back through Green Park, round a very aptly named road called 'Achilles Way' and back into Hyde Park. By now we were just under the 6 mile mark and I was a little apprehensive that the sites had all been and gone, and the rest of the route would just be weaving around the park. But I needn't have worried. The support as we came back into the park was unreal with loads of charities out supporting and just unbelievable cheers. I was loving it. I also managed to see Jamie here which was unexpected (I don't know why, he's a total pro supporter so of course he would make sure we saw each other en route!)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At about mile 6 - 'Hi, Hi Hi!'</td></tr>
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By halfway I was feeling great and really enjoying the run which is just what I wanted, but also feeling pretty pleased with the time on the clock so far. I had turned the mile buzzer off my watch so was just enjoying running at a pace which suited me. Running past the Serpentine in the glorious Autumn sun was just lovely and the atmosphere just continued to be great. I kept on running and soon we were at 10 miles, then 11 then 12. Before I knew it I could see the finish line in sight and just kept pushing, running over the finish in a very respectable 1.38.18 with a heart full of love for running and London.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Royal Parks Finisher!</td></tr>
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-88877071188630772552017-10-05T16:35:00.000+01:002017-10-05T16:35:05.704+01:00What happened when I did yoga every day for a month?I'm not usually one for 'monthly challenges', mostly because they all seem to be a little too unobtainable and I know I won't stick to doing 5 million sit ups every day, or planking for three hours when there is wine to drink and tasty food to eat. So when my <a href="https://cardiffgirl.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">sister</a> tagged me in a post to do yoga every day throughout September, my reaction was my usual - 'no thanks.'<br />
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But then the 1st September came around and I saw my sister's post online and thought, 'actually, how lovely to have an excuse to do at least 5 mins of yoga and carve out a little me time every day for 30 days.' I've also been trying to find a yoga class that I love but which also fits into my weekly schedule, especially with marathon training looming on the horizon. I thought this might be the kick up the bum I needed to find a good class if nothing else.<br />
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The challenge was to do at least 5 mins of yoga every day in September and post on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/crandonruns/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> about it using hashtags #yogagirlchallenge and #yogaeverydamnday. Posting a pic every single day was definitely the worst thing about this challenge! My sister and I would text each other daily to moan about how stupid we felt putting pics of us on a yoga mat online EVERY SINGLE DAY! If you <a href="https://www.instagram.com/crandonruns/" target="_blank">follow me on Instagram</a> - apologies. It also turns out that as I am not your usual Instagram-yogi, (ie stick thin and able to get into every single mad looking twist and pose, and who bangs on about 'wellness') the amount of interesting pics you can take on your mat is pretty limited. I did enjoy however putting a video of me online attempting and failing to do headstands - just to counteract these images of yoga perfection which I most definitely do not embody.<br />
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I mostly did my yoga at home using online classes - hands down the best thing to come out of this challenge was finally sorting my spare room from 'laundry room' and changing it to 'yoga studio'! (read: spare room with yoga mat, but without the mound of washing)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spare room turned yoga studio</td></tr>
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I started the challenge with some Runners World 'Yoga for Runners', but through posting every day was recommended by <a href="http://thatsquatbot.com/" target="_blank">blogger Sarah</a> to try <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVrWHW_xYpDnr3p3OR4KYGw" target="_blank">Cat Meffan's</a> YouTube vids. These were amazing and would highly recommend if you want to do some yoga yourself at home - they are set out by duration and class intention so you can really choose what suits you that day and how much time you have. Some are as little as 10 mins and all are really varied.<br />
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I also managed to get to some new classes to see if these would be a good fit for me and my weekly routine. I really enjoyed all of them and it's so nice to practice at a class and be led by a real teacher to mix things up a bit. I also find classes much more challenging as they push you further into your practice. I will definitely be fitting in a weekly yin class once I get deep into marathon training in the winter. I also used the challenge as an excuse to sack off running one night and treated myself to one of my all time favourite yoga teacher's classes - 1.5 hours of Yin and mandala flow. Eirian of <a href="http://cariadyoga.com/" target="_blank">Cariad Yoga </a>is a great teacher, but I only manage to get to her classes sporadically due to running club clashes. So that was lovely and as always I left feeling all zen and glowy.<br />
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Anyway, apart from clearing out my spare room other benefits I noticed from practicing every day were better and clearer head space, sleeping better and more toned arms! I didn't feel at all stress free throughout the month, but I did find that taking even 15 mins to practice when I <i>was</i> stressed really helped. I loved carving out some time during the day to do this and having a kick up the bum to actually practice myself at home, which I dont usually do but I really hope to continue. I found I was improving and by week 3 I was noticing that I was able to take some deeper stretches and more advanced poses than usual. Although some days I did nearly forget, but a little pre-bed yoga routine was a nice way to round off the day! I'm amazed that I managed to complete the whole month, particularly during a boozy holiday and an even boozier hen do weekend away.<br />
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So all in all I really enjoyed it and really liked having a little month long yoga project and starting or finishing the day on the mat. I will definitely try and continue to do yoga more frequently - I do however promise to stop littering your Instagram feeds with annoying pics of me in yoga poses.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">30 day yoga challenge complete</td></tr>
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-24162370694763695832017-09-14T16:58:00.001+01:002017-09-14T16:58:59.443+01:00Marathon du Medoc 2017<br />
The Marathon du Medoc has been on my list of dream races for a long time. 26.2 miles running through the French vineyards, with 23 wine stops, cheese and even oysters en route - that's basically all my favourite things rolled in to one amazing event - what's not to love?! This year we were ready and waiting for the entries to open and I managed to get a place, along with running pals Jill, Emma and her husband Jonathon, from the Harriers.<br />
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This race is like no other. Seriously, it is really difficult to describe. Forget everything you know about marathon running. We committed all the pre-race sins; wine and heavy food the night before, a mere 4 hours sleep, running in an outfit we'd not practiced in, and very very MINIMAL training (the most I ran in 'training' was 14 miles).<br />
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Annoying flight times and schedules meant we had a long drive the night before to race HQ in Pauillac, to collect race numbers and wristbands for the coaches the next morning. The long drive did however mean we got a glimpse of some of the Chateaux, vines and roads we would be running through the next day, and they were beautiful. Race HQ and the little town of Pauillac was teaming with runners and the atmosphere was already really fun.<br />
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5am the next morning I was waking up and putting on my Bowie face paint with very bleary eyes. Each year the race has a theme and as this was the 33rd event, this years' theme was 'Music in 33RPM' or vinyl music, or to a lot of people just 'music'. And to some people, just 'costume'! As well as Bowie, other costumes in our group were 80s Madonna (Emma), her gay boyfriend George Michael (Jonathon) and Jill stealing the show as Nirvana's 'Nevermind' album cover, complete with toy baby and dollar bill. Throughout the run people kept making sure her 'baby' was OK and needless to say we took lots of pics of the baby drinking wine! Brilliant.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrfNAmzcyGlWvG7uOJzygu0thvd3C7PLpZRLJpXFX8wS5YF553KZOZ_bUb8Q23ibP4-mXAreBaNEWjlm6sLW_eZAWTmb8vcCyZ_xEKn2Bx6yBK20OuJpBCr3wOZ_gI1YIRo7s2nmT2cEB_/s1600/IMG_2234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrfNAmzcyGlWvG7uOJzygu0thvd3C7PLpZRLJpXFX8wS5YF553KZOZ_bUb8Q23ibP4-mXAreBaNEWjlm6sLW_eZAWTmb8vcCyZ_xEKn2Bx6yBK20OuJpBCr3wOZ_gI1YIRo7s2nmT2cEB_/s320/IMG_2234.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2n3jBLwUg3lTAnhlGRmIypjD3VdEltZz-HlxRr6NHAkBJnAB-ecTV4EBTk-y5CHbUqRHZFbWcPqh_TTHesqlMFUXobo5_NIHuNzd6sbZKheFUPEH4IiMm7BpvdMf0ZUxieApVJP89iRBR/s1600/IMG_2318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2n3jBLwUg3lTAnhlGRmIypjD3VdEltZz-HlxRr6NHAkBJnAB-ecTV4EBTk-y5CHbUqRHZFbWcPqh_TTHesqlMFUXobo5_NIHuNzd6sbZKheFUPEH4IiMm7BpvdMf0ZUxieApVJP89iRBR/s1600/IMG_2318.JPG" /></a></div>
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As the town is so small we stayed in Bordeaux and pre-booked our coaches to take us to and from the race. These left at 0630 but did gave us a chance to eye up all the other costumes. Our bus had Elvis, The Beatles, and a VERY skimpy Cher to name but a few. That's another thing, prepare yourself for a lot of nudity in this race. I have never seen so many naked men in one day, one man even ran it nude apart from his race number covering his bits. Bold.<br />
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The start line was basically a giant street party. Everyone was really excited, checking out costumes, taking photos and dancing along to the live band who were playing from a hanging stage above the start line. It was great!<br />
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And then with a shower of confetti we were off, walking, running and chatting our way merrily onwards. A mere 1k in and the first wine stop arrived - a pour your own job that set us up for the rest of the race. About 2k saw a big bottleneck as an 8500 throng of runners attempted to make their way through the tiny french villages. Before the race we all had grand plans - 'no drinking until 25k' and 'stopping and dropping out at 10 miles' were just two from our group but in reality these would never happen. It was just too fun and there was no way you could actually run the first few miles without stopping, unless you made sure you were way up front - it was just too crowded and way way too much fun. I think running the whole thing and not getting in to the spirit of the event really defeats the whole object of the race. There are plenty of marathons to run for a good time on the clock, we were here for a good party!<br />
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We clocked 5k in a ridiculously slow time of 54 minutes, but by this time we were already two if not three wines down. It was 1045, the sun was shining and we were running through rows and rows and beautiful french vineyards. Life was good and we weren't even halfway. But take note, among all the fun there is no time to dilly dally in this race. The sweeper cart is always just over your shoulder, bringing up the last of the runners with their anxiety causing whistles and the 'brooms of doom'. This cart travels at the back of the race, sweeping up the late runners and basically makes sure no ones overstays their welcome at the numerous Chateaux wine stops. You have to stay ahead of the brooms and a word of warning, they are really strict on the time limit of sub 06:30:00. At the finish line, they scan you and if your chip time is over the cut off, no rewards for you!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The brooms of doom</span></div>
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Our group soon settled in to a rhythm with Emma and I trotting ahead to the wine stations to grab four glasses of wine ready to greet Jill and Jonathan with our arms and wine in the air. On arrival at the wine stop Jill would stick her baby in the air so we could spot them - seriously, this baby was brilliant, and soon became our mascot! We would meet up, drink wine, and go again. Occasionally we got too cocky, messing about in the vines, grabbing two maybe three glasses of wine at a stop, chatting too much, and basically messing around. Until we saw the brooms of doom on the horizon which prompted us to get a wriggle on!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous Chateaux </td></tr>
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From about mile 16 the wine stops began to come thick and fast. By mile 19 we all agreed we were pretty drunk, but merrily marching onwards. The weather did it all, brilliant sunshine, rain storms and at one point a massive hailstorm which let me tell you is not easy to run through, uphill, in a catsuit, protecting your Bowie makeup whilst holding a glass of red. We chatted to runners on route and marveled at the amazing costumes and carts. We made friends with runners carrying and pouring their own wine (naturally) and had way too much fun with an oversized bottle of wine and photo frames hanging from trees. All along the route there were also water stops and loads of fruit, crisps, crackers and chocolate available. It was brilliant and although we all felt drunk, I didn't see anyone really hammered, apart from the naked man. Everyone was just in very high spirits enjoying the race.<br />
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Come mile 22 the stop-start running, the heat and the distance all began to take their toll and the last four miles were pretty much a death march to the finish line. Through oyster stops, ice cream and randomly, corn stops we trundled on and just could not wait to see that finish.<br />
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And finally as we came back along the water front in Pauillac we could finally see the red carpet and vinyl balloons leading us to the finish line. We crossed the line as a group together, drunk, tired but oh so happy. And I'm pleased to say we made it with a minute to spare in 06:28:54. Perfectly timed!<br />
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We grabbed our medals, record shaped marathon bags and of course commemorative boxed bottle of wine from one of the various Chateaux en route. We were elated, so of course celebrated with a much needed...beer! No more wine for us for at least 12 hours.<br />
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My 6th marathon was my worst time in numbers, but undoubtedly the best time I will ever have running a marathon. Running with our little gang together was just so much fun and we are already planning our return trip.<br />
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Marathon du Medoc DONE.<br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-73817369963986048072017-08-23T12:38:00.000+01:002017-08-23T12:38:15.914+01:0050 and Fabulous (parkrun that is)This Saturday saw me run my 50th parkrun - 50!<br />
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My first ever parkrun was on the 3rd Jan 2015. I was a bit nervous before I went and had no idea how they actually managed the timing system! I ran there, worried I wouldn't be able to chain my bike up anywhere (doh!) and ran it alone. I loved it! Everyone was really friendly and it felt good to have done my run so early on Saturday morning and I knew I'd be back, despite having gone as a 'new year resolution'.<br />
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Two years on and a new parkrun has become my local, which in turn has become a bit of a social event in our <a href="https://www.manyharrier.co.uk/" target="_blank">running club</a>'s week. We often meet up there for a quick hello pre and post run; incorporate it into part of our individual long runs on the weekend, or use parkrun as an excuse to go for a team breakfast afterwards. Lovely.<br />
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My fiftieth run was really fun, despite being treated to typical Manchester August weather - it absolutely chucked it down on my run there. When I finally arrived, soaking, I was met by my running buddies including Chris who as also running his 50th and his lovely wife Jen who had '50th' balloons for us both. We ran together with more of our running club and had a nice chat and a catch up - it was really social and loads of people congratulated us on our 50ths on the way round. It was so nice. Running with a balloon in the soaking rain with your pals is actually pretty fun, and we all agreed that running at a sociable pace having a chat made a nice change to almost puking in the finish funnel after running your heart out trying to get a PB.<br />
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In a bizarre coincidence it turns out I ran my 50th in EXACTLY THE SAME TIME as I did my 1st two and a half years ago, with a time of 23:53. Insert spooky music here....<br />
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Post race most of the gang went for a celebratory coffee, but I continued on my long run as it has dawned on me I have a marathon to run in less than three weeks. Oops. Anyway more on that soon.<br />
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As always, parkrun was a great way to start the weekend and celebrating our 50ths was just fabulous.<br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-36216093790998064222017-07-05T14:25:00.001+01:002017-07-05T14:25:16.886+01:00Trips, slips and trails - Round Sheffield Run Race ReportMy <a href="https://www.manyharrier.co.uk/" target="_blank">running club </a>love a good post run celebration so when one of us suggested we ran the <a href="http://www.roundsheffieldrun.com/" target="_blank">Round Sheffield Run</a> - a 15 mile event over 11 stages with local beer at the end, we didn't waste any time in entering.<br />
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After a-way-too-early-for-a-Sunday alarm, we met bleary eyed at the station, armed with coffee and flapjacks and began our journey to Sheffield. Even the scenery on the train journey out there was lovely so it was looking like we would be treated to some gorgeous views, and we weren't disappointed.<br />
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The route starts and ends at Endcliffe Park and uses the Round Sheffield Walk route. The 15 miles (ish) are divided into 11 stages of varying length, with the longest being 2.8km and the shortest being 0.8km. You then have a set amount of time to get from the end of one stage to the next, with the time being generous enough for a leisurely walk. Confused? Me too! I couldn't quite get my head around this 'staged' race, but figured it would all become clear on the day, and to be honest, it did!<br />
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It is your responsibility to clock in and out of each stage to record your time, which you do by dipping a little plastic fob into a scanner at the start and end points. At the end of the race you're then given a print out with your running time. We were given our fobs with our race numbers on check in and after a brief start line photo shoot we were ready to go. The race was started in waves with the earliest being around 0815 and the latest being 1015-1030. Even during your designated wave they start you off in groups of 4 so that you each have time to dip your fob and get your timing started. This meant that the course wasn't too congested and you could run with your pals as solo runners, or in teams, or as pairs. Slower runners were encouraged to start earlier and this seemed to work really well, with one of us Harriers opting for the earlier wave and finishing not too far in front of us.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harriers between stages</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crandon Runs at Round Sheffield Run</td></tr>
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<br />The overriding feeling of this race was how inclusive and accessible it was. Breaking the distance into stages means its less daunting if you're not used to running that far, and it also means you can regroup with your mates at the end of each stage. It was great and ridiculously well organised! The first two stages were STEEP uphills but then they did provide lovely views so I will forgive them (just). Brutal though! The rest of the stages were a mix of ups and downs, through parks, trails and forests. It was beautiful and really really fun.<br />
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The only draw back was that the stop-start of the stages, combined with the brutal uphills, meant my legs kept turning to jelly when getting back to running. Towards the end I was getting tired and then, with only 3.5km to go disaster struck!<br />
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Stage 8 was a narrow gravel trail and I flung myself on the downhill, only to lose my footing and go cartwheeling head over heels. I bashed my entire left side of my body on the ground and eventually came to a stop with my face in the gravel and dirt in my mouth. OUCH. I must admit I shouted a very loud 'f' word here. Luckily a lady behind me helped me up and Hannah and Kev who were running with me were just behind. Hannah patched me up and we kept on moving to the end of the stage to get some water to wash my wounds. Urgh. With only 2 stages left to go I decided to just keep going and get to the end and sort myself out then. The next stage was the one I was most looking forward to - 800m of downhill - but after my fall Hannah and I took it very very steadily. By this point I was really really tired and sore, and couldn't wait to get to the finish line. And then soon enough we were running back through Endcliffe park and towards the finish line and a brilliant large medal come bottle opener!<br />
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On return of your fob you immediately receive a print out telling you your overall running time and your current standings. I came 17th lady with a running (and falling) time of 1.39 which I was pleased with. I spent a whopping 1 hour 17 minutes between stages!<br />
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The end of the race was like a mini festival, with a bar full of delicious (and strong) local craft beer, a pizza tent, deckchairs and music. It was ace and an absolutely brilliant atmosphere. I also bumped in to Bibi from the <a href="http://www.veggierunners.com/" target="_blank">Veggie Runners</a> which was great, and who had also really enjoyed this race with a difference - we were both so excited at the end! You truly meet some fab people through running.<br />
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We continued with beers and pizza for the rest of the afternoon and had a very jolly train ride home. It was a really fun race, despite the hills and the road rash I collected on the way, and would recommend it in a heartbeat. We're already plotting next years return.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After party</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishers!</td></tr>
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CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-49852591304056767192017-06-23T15:34:00.000+01:002017-06-23T15:34:30.170+01:00NYRR Central Park Mini 10k - Race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My only real regret in life is not taking up running until AFTER I lived in New York for a year. Had I been a runner back then, I would have entered the New York marathon and have already ticked this off my race bucket list, as well as been able to explore all the fun of NYC during many running adventures. What a fool I was - too busy eating and taking part in happy hours instead...although this was also very very fun.<br />
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I love running when I'm on holiday and my running kit is always the first thing I pack. So when we booked a week long trip to NYC I was on the lookout for a race to run while I was there and came across the NYRR Mini 10k - the original woman's only race through Central Park. BINGO.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finisher - NYC RUNNING!</td></tr>
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I was so excited. I had to collect my race number and race t-shirt (as an aside why do overseas races always give these to you before you run? I find this so odd - why not get it at the end?!) from NYRR HQ on West 57th St - or as I like to think of it, 'Runner's Mecca'. This was a very slick process and took all of 3 minutes to get my top and bib. Also at HQ was a full route info, a shop, lockers to leave your stuff in while you go for a run (brilliant idea) and a full display of all the NYC Marathon medals to date. Awesome! It was also pretty interesting as a Q&A with the elites was going on while I was there. That's right, this wasn't some little piddly race, no this was circa 9,000 ladies running through Central Park led by a horde of Olympians and elites including Mary Keitany, Edna Kiplagat and our very own Jo Pavey.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jo Pavey on the home straight - look at that stride!</td></tr>
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The race started at 8am which I was pleased about not only because this meant minimal holiday interruption and the promise of a post race breakfast, but also due to the heat. We had inadvertently stumbled across a New York heat wave and it was hot. Like REALLY Hot. One day it was over 35 degrees when we were there. Sheesh! I'd previously read that there were usually a healthy amount of portaloos at US race starts, and I was not disappointed. No queuing and worrying that you'd still be in the loo as the gun went off. No no no! This is America folks, toilets for everyone! You literally just walked up to a bank, opened the door and hallelujah! Welcome to the cleanest porta-potty you've ever seen. Take note UK races. Seriously.<br />
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Mandatory loo stop done, I waved goodbye to Jamie and walked into pen B which was located right outside Trump Hotel on Central Park. Urgh, oh well you can't have everything I suppose. This starting pen was really rather daunting. Over 8500 women completed the race that day and I was only seven rows behind Jo Pavey on the start line. I could literally see her face and pro elite running pants. So that was scary. However there was a really friendly atmosphere at the start, with everyone chatting away to each other and looking forward to the run. After a speech from the first winner of the race in 1972, followed by a rendition of the National Anthem, we were off!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course map at NYRR HQ</td></tr>
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The course runs up Central Park West until 91st Street when you then turn right and do a huge lap of Central Park. Running on the quiet closed New York streets was great, and I saw loads of museums and galleries I'd not seen before. It was quiet as it was so early but once into the park the opposite side of the road was scattered with folks running, cycling and cheering us on, for a lot of the route. It was great! But hard. I hate a 10k usually as they are so long to run so fast! But this was also hilly. I hadn't really realised Central Park contained so many lumps and bumps and this combined with the heat made it really hard work. But, I couldn't stop thinking how brilliant it was that I was running through CENTRAL PARK! How terribly exciting! The atmosphere around the course was great with everyone shouting words of encouragement - 'You got this', 'Great stride' - all very american. I was pretty near the front at the beginning of the race and could see the timing car until it turned into the park, so the course wasn't at all congested where I was and I had plenty of room to struggle up the hills and fling myself down the descents, with just a few ladies around me.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">The miles ticked by really quickly and soon I was on the home straight, with Jamie waving and shouting my name! Then it was over the finish line with a shout out over the tannoy in 43.10 and 80th place. Not bad. I was given a hug and my medal along with a flower (random), some pretzels (genius) and a big pink bagel (perfect). All in all it was a brilliant race and I would definitely do it again...it was a really fun part of my holiday and running through Central Park was just brilliant.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flower, medal, apple, pretzels and a pink bagel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Champion supporter</td></tr>
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-64250778177829110082017-06-07T15:35:00.002+01:002017-06-07T15:35:44.272+01:00Coniston Half Marathon Trail raceWhen my mates Craig and Jill suggested I join them for the Coniston Half Trail race this weekend, I was tempted by the promise of beers and lunch in the Lakes after a nice morning on the trails. I kind of forgot about the running bit. And totally forgot I'd never run a trail race before...<br />
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The Lakeland Trails series had some good reviews within my <a href="http://manyharrier.co.uk/" target="_blank">running club </a>and I can see why. There were many different options for races on the day, a 10k, a half marathon and a marathon, with all distances having a 'challenge' option for slower runners or walkers which started an hour before the 'race' option. After some oversharing toilet chat (standard) we were all set to go and lined up with about 250 others to head out on the trails. It was a small race, smaller than our local parkrun, but the atmosphere was really friendly.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start line selfie</td></tr>
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The course was really challenging and technical, with a whole load of different type surfaces to run on including trails, big rocks and lots of slate, which kept you on your toes and kept the miles ticking over. It was so different to the usual road races I'm used to. By mile 4 my legs were screaming at me, and looking at the profile afterwards I see why! The climbs were quite big at times and then leveled out before sending you up again. This continued until about mile 9 when the downhill was so steep you couldn't hold yourself back even if you tried. I loved the variety of the run and made sure I kept looking up at the scenery (and taking photos whilst on the move). I wanted to just enjoy the run so whilst I glanced at my watch when it buzzed each mile, it was more of a 'oh look at that' rather than with a time goal in mind. My miles ranged from 7.30 minutes to 10.30 and you can probably guess where these were from the pic below. It was really quite liberating running without any time pressure.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course Elevation profile</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning scenery (taken on the move!)</td></tr>
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The marshals were really friendly and the sheer amount of races taking place meant that there were a few people out on the course, but sometimes I was running alone which was also nice. The water stations I passed seemed really well stocked for the marathon runners, with enormous flapjacks, coke, water and squash. The route was well marked for the most part although there were a couple of occasions where we had no idea where to go! At one point there was an unmarked fork in the road which really irked some of the pro trail runners near me - but I just chose to keep running and took the down option rather than going up an unnecessary hill - if in doubt, go DOWN! Turns out I was right and I was free to fling myself down the downhills with no one in my way! The route markings could have been a little clearer though from halfway onwards.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photographer at the TOP of a hill - 8 miles in</td></tr>
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My goal for the race was to have fun and not stop even on the hills, and I was pleased I managed both. The last mile or so was back on flat road and grass which is more of my usual preference so I was able to take a couple of ladies in the last 500 metres and cross the finish line as 11th lady and a shout out over the tannoy!<br />
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The scenery was beautiful, the atmosphere was great, and we all agreed it was a cracking race. The post run beers in the sunshine weren't too bad either. I think I will be adding more trail races to my calendar pretty soon...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FINISHERS!</td></tr>
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CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-59350453439081611732017-05-16T15:20:00.001+01:002017-05-16T18:48:52.212+01:00Swim for Restoration at Victoria BathsI've been meaning to go on a visit to the famous <a href="http://www.victoriabaths.org.uk/" target="_blank">Victoria Baths</a> for ages, but for one reason or another never quite got around to it. So I was really excited when I heard they were filling the gala pool and opening it for swimming to the public for the first time since it closed in 1993. Tickets for this 'one day only' event were hard to come by and sold out faster than Glastonbury, so I was pleased I'd been poised and ready to spring into action.<br />
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Victoria Baths holds a special place in people's hearts here in Manchester, and when you're there you can see why. Opened in 1906 it was described as a 'water palace' and since it's closure 24 years ago, has been under restoration with the ultimate aim to reopen it for swimming and public use.<br />
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I've neglected my swimming somewhat since my <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/no-longer-curious.html" target="_blank">triathlon</a> almost 2 years ago (!) and only managed one open water swim last year. I know, terrible. So this year I am hoping to get back in the water with a bit more dedication.<br />
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We arrived a little before our swim time, had a wander around the gorgeous building and booked ourselves on a post-swim tour, before heading up into the spectators gallery and watching the swimmers in the first session. The atmosphere throughout the whole day was great; painters and sketchers were on the balcony capturing the day, the media was there in full force, and some swimmers even arrived dressed to the nines in old fashioned Victorian swimming costumes complete with straw boaters (which yes, they swam in!) Everyone was just really happy and excited to be there and the atmosphere was so infectious.<br />
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10 minutes before our swim time we entered the gala pool area and were shown to the old fashioned poolside cubicles to change. We were told we couldn't enter the pool until the whistle blew. Everyone was pretty giddy! We messed around taking photos and then all stood on the side of the pool waiting for the 3, 2, 1 countdown. The whistle blew and in we all jumped together. It was so fun.<br />
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There were some serious swimmers doing their lengths and we mixed it up with a bit of lane swimming (500 metres for us in total - ha!) and a bit of leisurely swimming taking the whole thing in (read; playing with flamingo inflatables and beach balls.) It was a but chilly but totally worth it. I even earned my first swimming certificate in over 25 years! What a brilliant day, a great cause and a lovely way to get back into my swimming. If only every swim could be in such a pretty and inspiring setting.<br />
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You can read more about the restoration of the baths <a href="http://www.victoriabaths.org.uk/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-5118547807312200522017-04-27T12:22:00.001+01:002017-04-27T12:22:42.963+01:00BQing at the London Marathon 2017<div>
I bloody love the London Marathon. I love the circus that goes with it; that everyone knows someone running it, that it's all over the radio, TV and twitter and that there's this huge nationwide build up. And so it was a privilege to run it again this weekend, finishing in 3.34.17, getting a Boston Qualifying time (sub 3.35) and a 6 minute PB to boot!<br />
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I've been working towards getting a 3.30 marathon and a BQ since <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/manchester-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">last year</a>, and after 635 training miles, 4 months and over 90 hours of training, I finally achieved the holy grail of a BQ. Sure, it wasn't the 3.30 I was hoping for but a PB is a PB and an actual BQ is nothing to be sniffed at! These are times I've only ever dreamed of achieving.<br />
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What a day. It was AMAZING!<br />
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Arriving at the Green start, I bumped in to <a href="https://runslikeadog.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Cathy </a>who calmed me down with some great advice about not panicking if the running congestion slowed me down in the first few miles, and then I was almost ready to go. Stood in my pen I chatted to some girls near me and ignored the ones sprouting about how you will never get a PB in London. Hey people, don't do this. A marathon start line is no place for this kind of negative chat thank you very much. For the record I've now run London twice and both times managed a PB by 8 and 6 minutes respectively. So there.<br />
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Then before I knew it we were off! I couldn't actually believe all those months of training were coming together today and I was actually running my goal race. I kept my targets in mind and kept on trucking. It <i>was</i> congested, but not as bad as I thought it would be. But that was until we merged with the runners from the Red start at approx mile 3. Woah! It was then that it got <i>really</i> busy.<br />
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Just before mile 6 I got a terrible stitch which felt like my stomach was going to tear in two. I never get stitches so was kicking myself for skipping over the advice I'd seen on twitter the night before, about what to do when you get one. Worried how I was going to keep going for 20 miles I did what I always do when Im stuck - deep breaths through the nose and out through the mouth. (Thanks yoga!)<br />
I couldn't believe mile 6 was my slowest of the race! Anyway, that soon passed and I concentrated on getting to where my boyfriend Jamie and our friends were waiting to see me in Greenwich. It's around here that the atmosphere REALLY kicks in. The crowds at the Cutty Sark are insane and then this support just keeps going for the rest of the run. At mile 11 I had the biggest grin and actually said out loud, 'this is AMAZING'.<br />
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On to tower bridge and swallowing back tears. Running over it was even better than <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/the-london-marathon-2014.html" target="_blank">I remembered</a>. We clapped as the elite men passed us on the other side of the road and then I heard Hannah from Running club screaming and waving at me from the other side of the road. It was great!<br />
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At mile 15 -16 I had a bit of a dip. It was hot, much hotter than anticipated and the crowds were a bit thinner here. By this time I'd already realised I wasn't going to get 3.30 but was happy with the 3.32 time I was on for. But I needed to give myself a pep talk, I'd run 5 different 20 milers in training so why was I grumbling at mile 15?! I focused on getting to to Jamie's next spot and again the crowds picked me up. Blowing kisses to my supporters at mile 17 I was feeling happier. Until a man kicked me right in the knee! More pals, high 5's and cheers at miles 20 and 23 kept me going and I partied my way through the Run Dem Crew cheer spot at mile 21 - those guys KNOW how to cheer a marathon.<br />
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Then I realised if I wanted a sub 3.35 and a BQ I had better put my foot down. And I did - miles 24 and 25 were my fastest of the whole race! A kilometer to go and the road became really narrow and busy with people slowing down. 'Keep going' I yelled as I got caught up in a group. Then the 800 meters sign, then 400, then I was at the Mall and sprinting my heart out. By brain was go go go but my body could only try it's best to speed up.<br />
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And that was it, arms in the air and over the finish line in 3.34.17. I'd just made it, that BQ was finally mine.<br />
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I've now had a few days to reflect on the race and take it all in. I was a little slower than I'd hoped and this could have been down to any numbers of factors; the sun, the congestion on course or maybe it was because I was a little afraid to go faster early on in case I blew up at the end. Even on your fifth marathon it still feels like you're going in to the unknown. Maybe I held back a little too much. But in the end, I gave all that I could on the day and absolutely loved running it, and you can't ask for more than that.<br />
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It was an absolute privilege to run the London Marathon this year and I just had the best time. Watching the highlights show the next day I was ready to do it all over again. The crowds and support are like no other. London is just the best.<br />
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For all the messages of good luck, support and love on and off the course on Sunday, thank you from the bottom of my heart. It means more than you will ever know.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic Crandon finish line sob fest</td></tr>
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CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-19588482841028362512017-03-09T15:38:00.002+00:002017-03-09T15:39:49.535+00:00BQ Chasing - The Story so far<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5F8x-MStaGxwO9lZLVvMLwPB0sQ1c4f7OpXaQ5G2bWHREExc2aohwNStOktwcGfvb5WyGgua1-mGoOhURwjTHLtPCk1-oSW1WMe7nKmAw82ioaXyRwxiA05tkX-JpMIN7RRckLvZUpjTl/s1600/Sarah+Crandon+XC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5F8x-MStaGxwO9lZLVvMLwPB0sQ1c4f7OpXaQ5G2bWHREExc2aohwNStOktwcGfvb5WyGgua1-mGoOhURwjTHLtPCk1-oSW1WMe7nKmAw82ioaXyRwxiA05tkX-JpMIN7RRckLvZUpjTl/s1600/Sarah+Crandon+XC.JPG" /></a><br />
I was really happy with my new PB at <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/manchester-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">Manchester Marathon</a> last year, but I knew that this year I was on a mission to get that elusive Boston Qualifier and ready to work for it like I've never done before. So 10 weeks in to my training I thought I'd look at how it's going.<br />
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The biggest difference I've made to my training is the mileage. I'm currently averaging around 50 miles per week which is WAY more than last year or any other marathon cycle I've done, where the highest mileage was about 38 miles, maybe once.<br />
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But the way I'm training is different too. For all of my 4 marathons I have seen the mileage due on my training calendar that day, and just gone out and done it - without any thought of speed other than trying to run at marathon pace, like all the bloody time. WRONG. This cycle has been much more focused, with tempo runs, progressions runs, intervals, and most importantly the long slooooooooow run. I am making sure I listen to the experts and running my long runs about a minute slower than goal pace. Laura aka Lazy Girl Running explains the science behind this much better than I can - see <a href="http://www.lazygirlrunning.com/2016/03/slowing-down-to-run-faster.html" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
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Training with these more focused sessions has made it much more enjoyable too. Im not just out logging the miles, but constantly thinking about pace, time and speed and its much more fun. Running fast is HARD. Running slow is HARD. It's all HARD. But it's much better. I've also noticed that slowing my pace on the long runs leaves me with much more energy to complete my fast sessions during the week, and I'm no where near as tired. Bonus. But I am hungry. Very very hungry. And I am making conscious efforts to keep the Food Mood at bay but have had to say 'sorry for what I said when I was hungry', a couple of times...Oh and I've also given up booze. '?' I hear you cry! 'You've changed!' Yep, yep yep. I figured lent coincided nicely with the marathon so no booze til the finish line. That will keep me going if nothing else...mmm...wine...<br />
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I have no idea if all the extra training will pay off come April 23rd, and I had a massive confidence wobble after following a long run with a way too hilly recovery run earlier this week. My legs just about gave up on me and I thought there was absolutely no way I could run a marathon at goal pace. My confidence was low but after a bath, some foam rolling and a big ol' pep talk to myself, I'm feeling better. Whether it pays off and I get the 3.30 time Im looking for or not, at least I know I will have worked much harder and given all I have to the training.<br />
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London, Im ready for you. Well, almost - I still need the next 6 weeks actually.CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-34246953868292908372017-02-08T21:04:00.001+00:002017-02-08T21:04:48.704+00:00Running in the Scottish HighlandsWith marathon training in full swing, my trainers were one of the first things I packed for a few days away in the Scottish highlands this weekend (second to wine obviously).<br />
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Staying in a pretty remote, middle of nowhere cottage I was at a bit of a loss as to where to run on my first morning, but a chance encounter with the owners of our little hideaway meant they gave me some directions away from a boring old B road and on to a little hidden trail route straight from my front door. Lovely.<br />
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After a hilly mile or so, breathing in clean beautiful fresh air and admiring the view, my off road running attempt was somewhat thwarted by a flock of inquisitive sheep blocking my path. I know, I know I'm such a city girl. But there were loads of them, with demon eyes all starting at me....ahem... I continued my run back towards the road and still had a great time enjoying running somewhere new.<br />
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Determined not to be defeated by some livestock, a couple of days later I attempted my run again into the trails. And I was so pleased I did. I was rewarded with the most beautiful scenery; snow capped mountains, babbling brooks and nothing to hear but the sound of my breathe, the 'thud thud thud' of my feet and a whole lot of pheasants. It was breathtaking and not just because of the steep hills. Undeterred by a sign on a fence warning of 'shooting in progress' - clearly I'm more scared of sheep than being shot - I continued until I got to a river and could go no more.<br />
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I loved exploring somewhere new, running in the stillness of the countryside and having so much to look at. It was a stark contrast to running around grimy Manchester, if only all marathon training runs could be like this.<br />
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<a href="https://attachment.outlook.office.net/owa/sarahcrandon@hotmail.co.uk/service.svc/s/GetAttachmentThumbnail?id=AQMkADAwATZiZmYAZC05OQBlNS04YTRjLTAwAi0wMAoARgAAA5xeM4oKrgtAr6dlAI%2BVH%2BwHANVTUE%2BGN3ZDiZdEI%2BL7W6UAAAIBDAAAANVTUE%2BGN3ZDiZdEI%2BL7W6UAAABJvTnhAAAAARIAEAC%2F98Nt5CSpSq7Sf1YdwZVN&X-OWA-CANARY=psTesdHdakqN7fMG6Bn8D5CdsA1OUNQY96v4X9sayHlkTcugG5SWQtLl7_zqGefIvquWdYZXK5g.&token=108e96f2-b5e2-4f32-a2f3-608d8807420f&owa=outlook.live.com&isc=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-67065324181907006182016-10-18T20:38:00.004+01:002016-10-18T20:38:51.637+01:00Manchester Half Marathon - Race reportAfter the baggage issues at <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/manchester-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">Manchester Marathon </a>earlier this year, I was in two minds about running the inaugral Manchester Half Marathon this weekend. But as it's on my doorstep, and the final race in my running club's Summer championships, I thought I'd still give it a go despite my reservations. And boy am I glad I did!<br />
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Having had a good run a couple of weeks ago at the <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2016/09/disneyland-paris-half-marathon-race.html" target="_blank">Disneyland Paris half</a>, finishing close to my best half marathon time, a little seed had been planted and I decided I was going for a PB. I have been running pretty well recently and running faster and longer in training than I'd really realised, so I thought I'd try and go out with a bang at the last road race of the season. And if I didn't get it, I had nothing to lose.<br />
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An early alarm gave us a gorgeous sunrise, but this wasn't to last. I checked my stuff into the bag drop, met up with my running buddies and we made our way to the start line. Just as the race began, the rain started to fall and in true Manchester style it didn't let up for about 6 or 7 miles. It was WET! But this didn't deter the crowds and I felt more sorry for them than us runners - as least we were moving and keeping warm! The race was well supported throughout with choirs and bands along the route. An out and back section towards the end also meant you saw supporters twice which was great.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start line</td></tr>
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I set off pretty fast, too quickly really, but I'd decided to run without my running watch after I'd enjoyed it so much in Paris, so I didn't really know how fast I was going. I liked running on feel and realised that the 1 hour 35 pacer hadn't yet overtaken me which was both nice and worrying in equal measure. Then right at the 9 mile mark, just as the going got tough, that pacer effortlessly glided past me. Although this was much faster than I was aiming for it was still really disheartening and I thought I'd totally lost my chance of a PB. I tackled the rest of the race just trying to run as fast as I could. There were a few little inclines which were not what I needed after 12 miles of running hard, and I felt like a lot of people were overtaking me towards the end, probably because I'd started in a faster group than I should have. But I just kept telling myself to keep going.<br />
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Soon enough I could see the finish line, but it was AGES away and took me forever to get to. I was happy with my run and felt like I was giving it my total all. I couldn't go any faster - until I saw the clock. It was SO close to my PB time that I couldn't not pick up the pace. Feeling sick and really going for the last 100 metres I finally ran over the line with a new PB of 1.36.59!<br />
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It was tough, and the course wasn't the most scenic, but the atmosphere was great despite the weather and the organisation was really good (apart from the lack of portaloos at the start!)<br />
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A good run, well organised race and a shiny new PB - not bad for a Sunday morning's work.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Obligatory beer and medal shot</td></tr>
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-29145778921202394212016-09-29T12:20:00.000+01:002016-09-29T12:21:14.186+01:00Disneyland Paris Half Marathon - Race Report<div>
Another weekend, another early alarm where I wake up asking myself 'what am I doing?!' I always said I would never wear fancy dress to run a race, but this all changed when I entered the Disneyland Paris Inaugural Half marathon. If there is ever a race to dress up for, one through Disneyland is surely it?!</div>
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With Ariel from The Little Mermaid decided on, I chucked a shell bra and some mermaid print leggings into my bag for a weekend in Paris, and off we went!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mermaid kit throw down</td></tr>
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The race started at 7am with corrals closing at 6.30 - pretty early but no additional buses were put on to transfer those staying outside of the Disney parks. We ended up getting an extortionate taxi but saw plenty of runners walking the 30 min+ route bleary eyed through the dark towards the start line. Thank goodness for Starbucks! Stood at the start in the dark with the search lights going was pretty exciting, but I was glad I'd had some middle-of-the-night running practice <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BKepV30j0PR/?taken-by=crandonruns&hl=en" target="_blank">at Equinox24 </a>the week before!<br />
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It was late starting and despite being in the first corral we ended up crossing the line at about 7.15. They did however stagger the start in about 2 or 3 minute intervals, which I thought was great as it meant that the course was never congested and everyone had plenty of room to run. This was brilliant for us at the front, but looking at social media this strategy meant that people further back didn't start until gone 8am, and were then rushed through the race and not allowed to take photos or stop because the park was opening! Not cool Disney, not cool.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start line selfie - Ariel & Captain America</td></tr>
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The route wound its way through the two Disney parks for the first 5k, with plenty of support from Disney workers and characters on course. There was music playing and the atmosphere was just really really FUN. Loads of runners would dash over to a character stop on the course, have a quick snap, then race off - it was pretty hilarious to watch. Turning on to 'Main Street USA' was pretty cool and we even ran through the castle itself. I didn't think I'd actually like it all as much as I did!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjToBamFwRTGOuMjoY8hD4apESHmIsau5Rnd4AY-LtvKrLypHHFwgDYUG6cHhyxMsg0G5dGgdAIMeHo2fZoVNFrQ205SqE-ugxruOmwLNcYhcTwnuzxI1bpA5NVeQWLOLc71ohfAt-FGMC/s1600/rundisney+castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjToBamFwRTGOuMjoY8hD4apESHmIsau5Rnd4AY-LtvKrLypHHFwgDYUG6cHhyxMsg0G5dGgdAIMeHo2fZoVNFrQ205SqE-ugxruOmwLNcYhcTwnuzxI1bpA5NVeQWLOLc71ohfAt-FGMC/s1600/rundisney+castle.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mid run blurry Main St USA shot </td></tr>
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I'd checked out the route online so knew that after the first 5k we would exit the parks and run on roads around the french countryside. I was dreading this and thought it would be pretty boring, but there were still bands and lots of support on course, especially from the marshalls at the water stations and the fun fun fun atmosphere continued. There were also some spectators out and watching the sun rise while running was pretty bloody lovely. The course was quite hilly in places with a couple of out and backs which I like, especially on this course as you could look at everyone elses costumes! I also kept an eye out for Paula Radcliffe who was leading the pack and I yelled a very energetic 'GO PAULA!' at her which made her laugh. I bet she's not had a mermaid cheer for her before...</div>
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After a couple of long road stretches, we made our way around a lovely lake and then back towards the park and through it again for the last 3k. These last kilometers were the hardest as the route back inside the park was really windy and twisty with lots of turns. Then for some reason we were taken out onto an empty car park for the finish, where Donald and Daffy Duck were cheering you over the line.</div>
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I was so glad I wore a costume for this race, as there were loads of 'Go Ariel' and 'I love your outfit' which really made me laugh. I basically had a great run and really enjoyed it. I had decided that I wasn't aiming for a PB and so didn't wear my running watch which meant no pressure and no constant checking of distance or pace. My aim was to enjoy myself and I really really did. I thought I'd be happy with a time of 1.45 but on course I thought I was on for 1.50 so was very surprised and happy when I finished with a time of 1.38 - just a minute away from my PB! I think the lack of self inflicted pressure really helped me and made for a much more enjoyable race. Im thinking I might do this more often...we'll see!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLnm1UpfgZGAwH_h0p9H4JwUBNhB457oQik0zuc0qQaL5MlLLhhGv5oGhLxDcrovcKVQ0oSr8rS2h28R_ES1FN3WxUm-cnA2JHy3Ocx1dOicDhskyeMsTCgmvKg9Dclrc7Sf-PYW-tZ5PY/s1600/disney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLnm1UpfgZGAwH_h0p9H4JwUBNhB457oQik0zuc0qQaL5MlLLhhGv5oGhLxDcrovcKVQ0oSr8rS2h28R_ES1FN3WxUm-cnA2JHy3Ocx1dOicDhskyeMsTCgmvKg9Dclrc7Sf-PYW-tZ5PY/s1600/disney.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Go Ariel!'</td></tr>
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All in all I'm really glad I ran this race, although there were faults with it. The bus situation at the start; spectators had to get special bands from the expo which wasn't made clear and could only watch at certain limited spots (and were also at the mercy of the travel situation); the results were not available until 3 days after the event (3 days!!); and who knows what's happening with the official photos - they are no where to be seen! For £60 I think these things need to be ironed out for future races.</div>
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But I loved the atmosphere and the route way more than I thought I would; the race t-shirt is great and actually fits and the medal is amazingly chunky. It was a great experience and really good fun, and a wonderful excuse to spend the rest of the day screaming our heads of on roller coasters.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllqI4VDUAoqd-kS_3EbempCJZFWmFd-qr24-EYXMTPdNJ7byUiWTyCOSNgZ7D_TD_1PBbMvB01YSJQUbcv5gOXQatAwU78OVux86paUaOWbFJsCA3fbKowqTTwd3XDjlVfMwZJwInbqfh/s1600/rundisney+medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllqI4VDUAoqd-kS_3EbempCJZFWmFd-qr24-EYXMTPdNJ7byUiWTyCOSNgZ7D_TD_1PBbMvB01YSJQUbcv5gOXQatAwU78OVux86paUaOWbFJsCA3fbKowqTTwd3XDjlVfMwZJwInbqfh/s1600/rundisney+medal.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RunDisney medal</td></tr>
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CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-75792754912889876072016-08-05T16:48:00.001+01:002016-08-05T16:48:08.413+01:00London 2017 here I come!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzf6dJiPW93o8VGmgID_n56v5vjHJo03CoQOPAcR3MFjgGdaBbMco27vqL3XnfNZSKxV8CstLH9GivKLGR_OFzg8EDM7YzjTyKGNDUWFJA3mSYY_ZiQnsajaXoKwsQnySybj2NIImPifOt/s1600/run.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzf6dJiPW93o8VGmgID_n56v5vjHJo03CoQOPAcR3MFjgGdaBbMco27vqL3XnfNZSKxV8CstLH9GivKLGR_OFzg8EDM7YzjTyKGNDUWFJA3mSYY_ZiQnsajaXoKwsQnySybj2NIImPifOt/s200/run.jpeg" width="168" /></a>I wouldn't usually appreciate anyone describing me as being 'good for my age', but when it comes from the people at London Marathon, it's actually really nice to finally, finally, hear!<br />
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In April I ran the <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/manchester-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">Manchester Marathon</a> in 3.40. I was really happy with my new 11 min PB, despite it being 5 minutes later than the Boston Qualifying time I'd been hoping for (currently 3.35 and under for my age group). I was disappointed that I'd not achieved a BQ but soon realised that missing this goal meant I had something to aim for next year. Every cloud and all that.<br />
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But I did begin to wonder whether it would ever be a realistic goal...could I ever really run that fast?<br />
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Then I remembered my first marathon in Berlin back in 2012. I was ecstatic to finish in under 4 hours (I scraped in with just 20 seconds to spare) and really really wanted to run the London marathon. Unsuccessful in the ballot, I <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/the-london-marathon-2014.html" target="_blank">ran it</a> for charity in 2014 and it was the most fun I'd ever had running. It was brilliant. And I wanted to do it again.<br />
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I always looked at the Good For Age qualifying times but dismissed them as unachievable by little old me. But with a few years of solid running under my belt I finally did just that. In the midst of trying for a BQ in Manchester, I'd almost forgotten that I could potentially get a GFA for London. Just because I missed one goal didn't mean I didn't get another. So I was ecstatic when I received the holy grail of emails from London Marathon telling me that my GFA application was successful and I would be standing at the start line in 2017, having got there under my own hard work.<span id="goog_198932882"></span><br />
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So it just goes to show, goals might take time to achieve, but it doesn't mean they're impossible. So maybe, just maybe, that Boston Qualifier time isn't so inconceivable after all.<br />
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Get ready London, I'm coming for you!<br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-57655948523133355262016-07-17T21:27:00.000+01:002016-07-17T21:27:02.176+01:00Finishing first and returning to my running roots<br />
This morning, five years after running my first ever <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/p/about-me.html" target="_blank">race</a>, I came first in the Race for Life 10k in Cardiff!<br />
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I'd entered that first race (also a Race for Life) to raise money for cancer research when my mum was ill, so it felt nice running well on her birthday today. I wouldn't usually enter the RfL but I wanted to run while I was home for the weekend, and do a run with my sister who is in training for her second half marathon in Oct. So we ran while her husband and kids were our supporters.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sisters doing it for themselves</td></tr>
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In a sea of pink I made my way towards the front and set off. These runs are non chipped and the emphasis is on taking part and raising money - as it should be. There are plenty of other races to get your competitive spirit on! That's not to say I wasn't running hard though.<br />
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As we set off, two girls were ahead of me and totally pegging it. As I was admiring their strength and running clobber (a distraction tactic I often employ) I thought they must also be doing the 10k option and looked forward to running the rest of the race with them. But just as I was about to take the 10k turn off, they sped on straight through, leaving me with no company other than the bike leader who was waiting for some 10k runners, but was greeted by just little old me. He mounted his bike and off we went, him thankfully guiding my way through a very twisty turny and confusing route, whilst I pretended I was Paula Radcliffe leading the marathon.<br />
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I usually hate a 10k, it's too long a distance to go hell for leather but it's too short to run more comfortably. But I enjoyed today, despite the long sections of running on grass and running the whole course alone.<br />
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As I hit an out and back section I kept my eyes peeled for my sister - not easy when everyone is dressed the same. But I saw her! We did a high five and both kept going. Then I was soon running towards the finish as the bike in front radioed in to say the first 10ker was coming through. I couldn't believe it - I laughed as I saw my time (42.20!) and then collected my medal before meeting up with our support crew.<br />
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Katie had told me to run without her but I said I'd run back and find her after I was done, so we could finish together. I met her at about 8k, and as we ran towards the finish we laughed about me finishing first and celebrated Katie achieving her goal of not stopping. Just before the finish line, my little nephew joined us to run the rest, while Gav ran alongside us with my little niece in the buggy. It was a right old family affair and a good laugh.<br />
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It was the longest Katie has run since before having her first baby, and the only time I've ever crossed a finish line first - so it was only right that we celebrated with some prosecco at Mum's for lunch.<br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-70616037027866530492016-06-08T18:39:00.000+01:002016-06-08T19:25:17.308+01:006am raving with Gloryville ManchesterIt's been a long time since I've seen the wrong side of 6am - my days of drinking and partying until long after the sun came up are very much over and have been left in my (rather too late) twenties...<br />
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But this morning before work, I found myself at an actual real life rave....albeit one fuelled by coffee and smoothies after a full nights sleep, rather than alcohol and partying on through to daylight.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning ravers</td></tr>
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I'd been invited by <a href="http://morninggloryville.com/city/manchester/" target="_blank">Gloryville Manchester</a> to experience their pre-work sober clubbing experience and 'rave my way into the day'. They are on a mission to shake up the usual morning routine and get people dancing before their working day.<br />
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I'd arranged to meet some girls from running club there at 7am - not your usual social engagement hour but as runners we're no strangers to doing ridiculous things and often find ourselves in situations asking each other 'what are we doing?!' This morning was no different and this thought was certainly going through my head when my early alarm went off. But as I got dressed in my loudest running gear, I was feeling pretty excited! I had no idea what to expect but on arrival at one of my favourite bars, <a href="http://www.thisisgorilla.com/" target="_blank">Gorilla</a>, I was greeted with a hug and directed through to the dance floor.<br />
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Once inside you could have mistaken it as a club night still going strong. The dance floor was full of people and more ravers arrived as the morning went on. The music was loud and the coffee was strong. People were dressed to the nines; sequins, glitter, head dresses and light-up hoola hoops were all on show, and we cracked out the face crayons and sunglasses, and partied on stage. I bumped in to a couple of yoga friends and everyone kept agreeing how mad it was and how much fun we were having.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyWL_Geh5p2CpL5HF-qHJN-HAFMCk2t8IscVaur5NMTSB8J1BPcOfGJR9jwr5qbeutmKE6AbvMDMc5uIatFKmjZEXrLwCc2kaULPFAH90IdRSb_x0xA-9mbwZ4IL4Fm8HgvfJXX-eEUGC/s1600/rave2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyWL_Geh5p2CpL5HF-qHJN-HAFMCk2t8IscVaur5NMTSB8J1BPcOfGJR9jwr5qbeutmKE6AbvMDMc5uIatFKmjZEXrLwCc2kaULPFAH90IdRSb_x0xA-9mbwZ4IL4Fm8HgvfJXX-eEUGC/s1600/rave2.jpeg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgeecUNMtkigqXEP-CC1hO_uJTIu7ZctMZ0jEzxzF4z8WitVhuqIW_Igas94DAKS6CQDzIGJhWhWW-xeTDmfRowPS3pE6-Dag_XN7BJssgn7BUoOaSoFP0Qt0ka_RAUIQZZ3Ukj2cxbiW/s1600/Rave.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgeecUNMtkigqXEP-CC1hO_uJTIu7ZctMZ0jEzxzF4z8WitVhuqIW_Igas94DAKS6CQDzIGJhWhWW-xeTDmfRowPS3pE6-Dag_XN7BJssgn7BUoOaSoFP0Qt0ka_RAUIQZZ3Ukj2cxbiW/s1600/Rave.jpeg" /></a></div>
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The event blurb promised 'music, dancing, dress up, super food breakfast, smoothies, coffee, yoga and massage'. The yoga seemed to be just a few mats on the edge of the dance floor for people to practice on but not a teacher-lead class as such - whilst the super food breakfast, smoothies and coffee were all at an extra (pretty high) cost - which for £16 on the door I thought was a little steep (advance tickets were £10-£16).<br />
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I like doing things a little out of the ordinary and waking up early to spend over an hour and a half dancing your heart out with your mates first thing in the morning, is a brilliant way to start the day. It was mad, and we kept saying so. As Jill pointed out, it was better doing this sober! We revelled in the craziness and felt really energised. I noticed people occasionally glancing at their watches while on the dance floor, almost forgetting that we all had to work to go to.<br />
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Stepping outside into the morning light while people were making their way to work was similar to my long gone clubbing days, although instead of an almighty hangover already kicking in, I left to make my way to work with an enormous grin on my face, feeling like I'd been let in on an almighty secret. A rave for breakfast is the way forward.<br />
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<i>I was invited to go the Gloryville for free and they knew I would be blogging about them. </i></div>
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-2629110889866970672016-05-17T12:19:00.002+01:002016-05-17T12:19:50.557+01:00Chester Half MarathonI wasn't aiming to get a PB at Chester Half Marathon this weekend. I didn't want one. I hadn't trained much since the marathon 5 weeks before and only managed to get one run in the double digits since, mostly as I was concentrating on recovery and enjoying not marathon training.<br />
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My reasons for running Chester were basically to do a half marathon, get a long run in with some mates from the running club and enjoy it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal selfie</td></tr>
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However, I promptly forgot all this come race day. Instead I managed to get swept up in the race atmosphere and set off in sub 7 min miles and on PB pace. OOPS! The uphills were much more frequent (for some reason I thought it was a flat course!) and much sharper than I had anticipated. My mind said slow down but my legs kept going. What was I doing?! This lead to me hating the first 5 miles of the course and fighting an internal struggle. I <b>really</b> had to remind myself why I was running (whilst also cursing my mate Jill whose idea this had been). </div>
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Mid way through and I had to have a stern word with myself. I reminded myself I didn't want to PB nor did I deserve to on so little training, and should slow down so I could achieve what I'd actually come to do.</div>
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After a little self ticking off, and at a slower, more reasonable pace, I began to enjoy myself - even despite running near a man who annoyingly breathed like Darth Vadar.<br />
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The route starts at the racecourse and heads out through the town centre, towards the countryside before a little loop and heading back. I must say the whole race was really well organised (take note Manchester Marathon) - barely a queue for the toilets and a really great atmosphere at the race course. The route itself was not only challenging with the hills, but also featured stretches of quite long boring roads which was pretty unexciting. But two bands on the course really stood out and kept spirits lifted, as did the heroic man at about mile 11 showering everyone with a hose. (This is not a euphemism).<br />
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The last mile was the worst - all uphill and seemingly never ending. But then finally, finally the finish was in sight. Louise Minchin off of BBC Breakfast gave me my medal at the finish line, and the post race goodie bag had actual useful things in it - sweets, 9 BAR and the best tasting Double Decker I've ever eaten in my life.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line Medal from Louise</td></tr>
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We stayed on course until the very end to cheer through all the last runners, and the organisers were on hand and came to chat to us to ask our opinions of the race.<br />
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It wasn't my best or most enjoyable run but that was due to my own legs and lack of prep. I think the fact that I eventually enjoyed it, despite the tough course speaks for itself.<br />
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Good job Chester.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKokzretEhyHNcMSOX-QraxU8Gi_QIMglQhwCuZjNtEgXqnRc2iI90z8YciozaZVSG8z8nJo63MOcppyvYyZMLBwQqby2PU_N1RNNtz0p3kbJHJIzqg8C1SVorWho3R6idO_hjmWmIQW9P/s1600/IMG_7601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKokzretEhyHNcMSOX-QraxU8Gi_QIMglQhwCuZjNtEgXqnRc2iI90z8YciozaZVSG8z8nJo63MOcppyvYyZMLBwQqby2PU_N1RNNtz0p3kbJHJIzqg8C1SVorWho3R6idO_hjmWmIQW9P/s1600/IMG_7601.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harriers on tour</td></tr>
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CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-38767040028273652062016-05-06T20:43:00.001+01:002016-05-06T20:43:37.784+01:00An unexpected awardLast night was my <a href="http://www.manyharrier.co.uk/" target="_blank">running clubs</a> annual AGM. As well as a look back at the club's achievements, this is also the night where two trophies from the past year are awarded; the Benidorm Cup, for Best Overseas Achievement and the Morris Kaplan Trophy for Most Improved Runner.<br />
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The former was awarded to Jill for her stellar achievement of completing her first marathon in Paris a few weeks ago. She promptly and heroically <a href="https://twitter.com/jill_guthrie1/status/728332918708416512" target="_blank">filled it with gin</a>. The second was awarded to little old me!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unexpected trophy</td></tr>
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Although we recognise and revel in our PBs when we get them, it's not often that we stop and take stock of our full achievements. It was only when our captains, who decided on the recipient of the award, mentioned it in the prize giving that I realised I'd recently gotten PBs in at least three distances this year; 5k, half marathon and the big one, the <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/manchester-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">marathon</a>.<br />
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This wonky trophy might look like it's been sat on or dropped on the floor, but it's been around since 1968 and clearly been very loved! Or maybe someone did actually sat on it after a few beers....who cares?! I've only been running with the Harriers for a year and a half, so I feel very honoured to be recognised among some pretty amazing runners.<br />
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CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-8446740819405054862016-05-02T18:32:00.000+01:002016-05-02T18:32:49.977+01:00Eat Pasta Run Faster at VapianoI do not need any encouragement to eat more carbs, or more of any food for that matter. I literally think about food all day long, so when I was asked by <a href="http://uk.vapiano.com/en/restaurants/vapiano-manchester-unit-13-the-corn-exchange/" target="_blank">Vapiano</a> to pop in and try some of their new menu designed specifically for runners, I of course said yes.<br />
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It's now been three weeks since the <a href="http://crandonruns.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/manchester-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">Manchester Marathon</a> and I'm still eating a lot! At the end of my two week taper, I really did feel that I'd misjudged my food intake. I think I ate WAY too much in the lead up to the marathon and I did feel sluggish as I stood at the start line.<br />
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It's a tricky thing to get right and your nutrition when training is very personal to each and every runner. Vapiano's new 'Eat Pasta Run Faster' menu has been devised by nutritionist Dr Sarah Schenker especially for runners to provide the right amount of carbs, protein and healthy fats to keep runners feeling fit and energised. You can read more about the menu <a href="http://uk.vapiano.com/en/blog/eat-pasta-run-faster/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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So how was it?<br />
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The food was really nice. Everything is prepared freshly on site that day, from the pasta to the homemade sauces, and pots of growing herbs litter each table allowing you to add to your food as you like. We started with the caprese salad to share which was enormous but tasty, and the freshness of the ingredients really shone through.<br />
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From the runners' menu plan we opted for the Risotto Funghi with Chicken, and the Vapiano Salmone pasta. The risotto was amazing, really creamy, rich and tasty but if I'd been paying for the Salmon pasta I would have taken it back. Although it was nice, our chef was way too heavy handed with the fresh chilli and sadly this was all you could taste. Word to the wise. go easy on the chilli here!<br />
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The concept of the restaurant took a while to get used to. Each diner is given a card which keeps track of everything they order so you pay for only what you eat and drink - a great idea for big parties. You take your card up to each station and wait while your food is cooked to order in front of you. This means you can add various different flavours to your meal, or leave out ingredients which you are less keen on. It does however mean that you are standing and waiting mid meal which is a little different and does impact on your dining experience. I think this would be a great place to go for families, or a large group for a relaxed lunch.<br />
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The next day I went for a run and felt the best I had since the marathon. This could be down to any number of factors; a successful recovery period, enough sleep, or even a tasty Italian meal the night before. I'll let you decide.<br />
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<i>We were kindly invited to Vapiano to dine for free and they knew I would be writing a blog about my experience.</i><br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-76712853212438019662016-04-11T17:55:00.001+01:002016-04-11T18:00:49.178+01:00Manchester Marathon: Race ReportI moved to Manchester about four and a half years ago. Yesterday, I ran my fourth marathon, 26.2 miles through the streets of my adopted home city and had a total blast - coming in at 3.40 with an 11 minute PB to boot.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PB and a Pint</td></tr>
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The week before the marathon the nerves began. Despite a great run at the Cardiff Half World Marathon Championships (where I ran a PB of 1.37) a couple of weeks before, I began to doubt myself. I felt sluggish and full during my taper and I felt like I'd forgotten how to run. Oh, how the taper plays with your mind.<br />
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I had decided pretty early on in my training that I was aiming for 3.30 and a Boston Qualifying time, and in the week before really began to feel the pressure. Thankfully a couple of days before the run I had an epiphany and realised that I was the only one putting this pressure on myself, and that if I didn't get it in Manchester then I could just bloody well try again next year. After all, my marathon PB stood at 3.51 so this jump was a pretty big ask.<br />
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Phew! Once I realised this, I relaxed a bit and began looking forward to getting out there, enjoying myself and seeing how my training would pay off.<br />
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The day of the marathon arrived with a glorious sunrise and I felt like a kid at Christmas, all full of nervous excitement. After dropping my bag off and popping to the toilet three times (just to be sure) it was time and soon we were off! I was actually running another marathon! The first few miles were congested and my legs felt a bit heavy and tired, but I was bang on for the 3.30 time on my pace band and I enjoyed the atmosphere and running through streets I knew.<br />
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As always my champion supporter boyfriend, Jamie was at multiple stops on route and I almost tripped someone up running up to him for a quick kiss around mile 9 - sorry about that runner! My brilliant running club pals also traveled all over Manchester by bike so I had lots of unexpected cheering posts along the course which was brilliant. I even saw my physio Trev at around mile 23 - at which point I REALLY could have done with an on route massage.<br />
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The first half of the race was fine and pretty uneventful, I was just enjoying the run. Through Sale the crowds really increased and I was looking forward to getting to halfway. At this point it was still pretty congested and the sun was getting stronger. The strong breeze was a welcome relief and thankfully there were loads of water points along the route. By about mile 14 the dream of 3.30 began to slip but around mile 17 I was still on for about 3.32/34 which I was happy with. I actually couldn't believe I was already this far along the course, the time seemed to have flown by. By mile 22 however my legs were screaming at me. They were tired and on the cusp of cramping. I kept collecting water at the stations and pouring them on my battered quads which really helped. By mile 23 my new goal was to just keeping running and not stop and walk, which a lot of people were doing by this point. I was determined to run the whole thing and knew I could run it no matter how slowly it felt.<br />
Finally there was less than a mile to go, and after seeing Jamie one last time for a final boost, I could actually see the finish line. But man alive, it was far away! The crowds in the home straight were amazing and I felt like a total rock star as I pushed and pushed and ran over the finish line at 3.40.<br />
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It was at this point I promptly burst in to tears as I have done now at all four of my marathons. I put it down to the sheer relief.<br />
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A few points to note on the organisation of the Manchester Marathon. Whilst I had a great run, this was down to the support on route and my training, while the organisation left runners with a lot to be desired. The start line was quite far from the race village; the start line was not clear at all, even as you crossed it; and do not get me started on the baggage fiasco at the end. I queued for over an hour for my bag and was absolutely freezing after running, but I know people queued for well over two hours for theirs. The organisation of that was dire. Queuing for almost as long as you ran, with no food or drink or word from the organisers is appalling. I also read online that there were huge problems with parking, and many runners missed the start due to this. It was absolutely ridiculous and really left a bad taste in the mouth to an otherwise great day. I don't know what happened but they really need to sort it out for next year. I'll be astonished if they collect 'Best Marathon' again this year in the Running Awards, they really don't deserve to.<br />
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But enough of that. Thanks to everyone who sent me their good luck wishes - they came from near and far, from family, friends and people I've never even met. It was overwhelming. And thanks to everyone who came and yelled and cheered and supported on the day - it is such a boost to have people on the course there as your own personal cheerleaders, and just as important for the post run beer celebrations - it really means so much.<br />
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As always after a marathon, my heart is lifted and I feel all in love with the world.<br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6362224466350605624.post-38202125314389657502016-03-21T15:44:00.000+00:002016-03-21T15:44:09.946+00:00Coniston 14 - Race ReportWhen I signed up with my running club last year, I heard a lot about the <a href="http://www.coniston14.co.uk/" target="_blank">Coniston 14 </a>race, and after running it this weekend, I can certainly see why it was so raved about!<br />
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This race has it all: amazing scenery around Coniston Water in the Lake district; hills, hills and more hills; great atmosphere and support and did I mention the hills? Also, with a 14 mile distance to cover, you're pretty likely to get a distance PB!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coniston 14</td></tr>
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Starting in Coniston the race starts and finishes at a school and takes in the entire of Coniston water giving you a pretty awesome view as you run. We drove up in the morning, and after a quick warm up we were off on our way and immediately climbing the first of many hills. There were lots of ups, but with those came a lot of downs too which I had loads of fun on! It had a great atmosphere and there were little pockets of support throughout the race. The climbs were certainly tough, especially at the 11 mile mark, and I was really pleased we'd been doing some hill running during our marathon training as this definitely put me in good stead. I managed to run them all and even managed faster than 7 minute miles at one point. Oops! I was meant to be taking it steady, but I quickly got caught up in race mode and managed to keep pushing through.</div>
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I was really glad when a fellow runner pointed out the amazing view to me at around 7 miles as I'd been looking down until then. What a mistake!<br />
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The final mile is a quick one too as you run back into Coniston to lots more support and cheering. There was a lot of pushing to be done in this final leg, especially when a lady over took me from nowhere! I kept going and managed to overtake her again to finish in 1.45.06 - which has really boosted my confidence for the marathon in three weeks time. Maybe my goal of 3.30 might be achievable after all!<br />
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Its a tough course, but the hilly route makes it interesting. Ill be back next year for sure!<br />
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It was a successful run for the club as we came 1st Men's team, and 2nd ladies team. We were so shocked, we didn't quite believe it was true and almost missed our prize giving on stage! We also had two individually placed men so a good day for the Harriers all round! We celebrated with a LOT of beer and a LOT of food.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Successful Harriers</td></tr>
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The worst bit of the race was definitely the fact that after I was finished, I had another 6 miles of training to do. Phew - these were TOUGH! But I'm glad I got them done as that's it for the long runs for the marathon. It's time to taper. Hurrah.<br />
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Next up - Cardiff Half marathon. Fingers crossed it's as much fun as this weekend.<br />
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<br />CrandonRunshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10801884356849693353noreply@blogger.com0