Grey skies give way to......

gypsylee

Delighted to hear he is enjoying the training and that you are still talking! Hope you both have a great half marathon.

Sunny Dayz

Sat 18/08/18 5km parkrun 31:32
Again another quicker than it should have been parkrun, the legs just wanted to be going. T'was a warm one, it got humid going around. Don't know what my splits were like, I wasn't passing much heed on my watch going round and when I tried to connect my garmin to the laptop at home, it wasn't transferring the run across to my strava. The garmin did a software update and now there's no sign of the run on my watch. At least parkrun is timed (and free) and proves that I ran!!


Sun 19/08/2018 10.11km 1:12:08
Splits: 6:49, 6:58, 7:17, 7:11, 7:35, 7:10, 7:04, 7:17, 7:23, 6:54, 5:42 (0.11)
A shorter long run for this weekend, only 10km! Decided to try this at half marathon pace just to get used to the pace, to be able to lock on at the feeling of our planned pace. Easier said than done! The watches did a lot of beeping at us, ahead of pace, behind pace, on pace! I picked a 10km loop near the house which I hadn't done in years and it's a nice country route. However from looking back over the strava, it was climbing from 5.5km onwards! The weather was really humid out, causing us to take a few walking breaks, I'd have loved a breeze or a shower of rain tbh, the sweat was running off me. Average pace for the run was 7:08/km, not far our planned half marathon pace of 7:05/km.


Plan for the week is fitness class tonight, easy 5km tomorrow, 3km walk on Thurs.

gypsylee

You are as ready as you can be for the half now. Enjoy your tapering.

Sunny Dayz

Sat 25/08/18 Tullamore Half Marathon official time 2:34:11
Splits: 7:11, 6:54, 6:38, 6:50, 6:48, 6:41, 6:38, 6:53, 6:54, 7:10, 6:59, 6:47, 7:14, 7:39, 7:08, 7:30, 8:14, 9:19, 8:58, 7:38, 7:35, 6:30 (0.2)

I'm only getting around to writing this report now as I went away for a few days straight after this race, so hopefully I've remembered some of it!

This half was about my husband. He decided at the start of this year that he'd like to do a half marathon before a significant birthday. He has a medical condition, luckily has been in good health the past few years and said sure if I can, why not?! I said I would do it with him, help him train and run along side him on the day. He actually got on well in training.

The day itself was spot on for a race. It was dry and warm, but a little breeze and not as high humidity as there had been recently. We got there about 10am for 11am start. Plenty of parking, seamless registration and tshirt collection and plenty of toilets. Nicest race tshirt I've ever got. Little warm up jog around the grounds and a few stretches by the wall. Short walk up the road to the start and we weren't kept long before we were off.

Km 1-5
First few kms there was so much support out on the roads. First km flew by, trying to keep the pace in check. I missed the watch beep for the second km and didn't notice til 2.6km! Pace was still faster than planned but it felt good and enjoyable. Liked taking in our surroundings and the support, we just went with it. When we took a left at 5km I check timing against the pace band and we were about 1 minute ahead for 5km. That was ok.

Km 6-10
Again the pace was quicker than planned. Few climbs along this part but nothing to complain or worry about. One guy was out with a hose around 7km, that was enjoyed. Out in the countryside there was still great support. We were passing a couple of people, it kinda felt good! Checked pace band and we were a good minute or more ahead of pace.

Km 11-15
At the 10km point there was another left turn and the road climbed a bit. At the relay transition, there was a lot of support there and a couple of people we knew were here so it was nice to hear them cheer. Ticking off the kms, soon we were into single digit km's left to go. From the 13th km hubbie started to struggle a bit. Took a walking break just to regain composure and got going again. Few more very short walking breaks, I tried to keep him moving and ticking along. We were really out in the country now but I noticed a few elderly people standing and sitting outside their gates watching it all go by and offering words of encouragement which was one of the highlights of the race for me. At the 15km mark we were just on pace and schedule for 2:30 but I knew by himself that the last section that sub 2:30 wasn't going to be likely.

Km 16 - finish
I said to himself, we've a parkrun to go. Tried to get him to visualise where we were on our regular parkrun course. Few guys up and down the course on bikes with water, gels, jelly babies, words of encouragement etc. Hubbie's stomach was at him, he'd nearly stop dead every so often and a few times I was worried he'd either puke or collapse. Tried to make sure he kept sipping water, he would have a sweet and tried to keep him moving, even at a slower pace, just to get him to the finish line. I was a bit worried about him. I'm not gonna lie, I was a little frustrated at having to stop and start, I wanted to keep the legs going. When we got to 19km we were running back the first 2km which we knew were fine, we were on the home stretch then so he picked up a bit then. My own legs were getting a bit tired at that stage. Quick peek at the pace band at 20km confirmed we had no chance of sub 2:30 but that we would certainly finish with a great time. At the turn in for the stadium we got a cheer from a friend of the hubbie and on for the final part of the race - one lap of the track. Such a lovely surface to run on and the commentary was great. Eyes on the finish line and we seen our son waving and cheering from the sidelines.

Tad emotional crossing the finish line. Got hubbie to sit down for a bit, have some water and a banana and get himself settled. I found it a little difficult to breathe for some reason, my breaths were short and sharp even though I felt I didn't overly exert myself at the finish, kinda panicked me a little. We headed over to the disco hall (of my youth!!) and met with a few running buddies there. They are more experienced at running than us, and they looked after us by getting us tea and sandwiches while we got our bearings back, guys ye were god-sends! A sugary cup of tea, a chat and a (cold) shower made all the difference and I felt grand after, except for the big blister on the side of my big toe!

Such a well organised event, I can totally see why so many people raved about it and return year on year. It would be difficult to not do it again next year, maybe the relay part of it, we shall see. Taking this week off running with a few days away, then easing back into school and work as the week goes on. I've been lined up for my first parkrun run director stint this Saturday, I'm really nervous about that. Race-wise, there's a local 10km and half in October, I want to support it but not sure which distance I want to do - 10km would be the sensible option but there's a little itch there for the half to see if I could run as well as I did last weekend and would I get sub 2:30? But I dunno do I want to get back into half training so soon.
(Jaysus sorry that was a long post!)

gypsylee

I was waiting for you to post. A great race report. Well done to both you and your hubby, a great time for his first half.

It sounds like you felt strong throughout, no reason why that sub 2.30 should not be yours next time. You did it before!

ariana`

Congratulations to you both, what a great achievement and there's something lovely about doing it together (my OH wouldn't run unless it's to chase a ball around a field :rolleyes:).

Sunny Dayz

ariana` wrote: »

Congratulations to you both, what a great achievement and there's something lovely about doing it together (my OH wouldn't run unless it's to chase a ball around a field :rolleyes:).

I quite enjoyed having the company on the half marathon route. But I found it difficult when he struggled cos I wasn't and I wanted to keep it going.

Sunny Dayz

Took last week off running. Along with that all my good habits went out the window resulting in lots of eating, lots of junk food, no water. By the end of the week I felt lethargic and woolly headed. Had my first experience of run director. I was quite stressed about it but it seems to have gone off ok. I also made a decision about whether to do the local 10k or half marathon - decided to go all in and do the half - there doesn't be many half's on my doorstep so I couldn't really pass up the opportunity.
So new week and back into training.


Mon 03/09/18 9km 1 hr 7 mins
Splits: 7:01, 7:11, 7:21, 7:45, 8:00, 7:28, 7:36, 6:52, 7:22
First run back after the half marathon. Decided on an easy run out the greenway with company while the evenings were still bright. I did find it a little tougher than easy, the legs felt tired and I took a few walking breaks. But it felt good to get back out there again.

gypsylee

Delighted to hear you signed up for the Half, you will do great. Good luck with the training.

Well done on your stint as run director, glad it went well for you.

Sunny Dayz

Weds 05/09 7.2km 55:54
Splits: 8:01, 7:12, 7:57, 8:18, 7:21, 7:52, 7:55, 6:35 (0.2)
Bit of an unplanned and unscheduled run. Got an unexpected few hours off work without notice. Laced up the runners but I wasn't sure if I wanted to walk or run and how far I wanted to go. Got into a slow jog, didn't feel the most comfortable, the legs felt a bit tired. But it was lovely to get a run during the day midweek - that never happens and I felt a little smug heading back into work!

Sunny Dayz

It's hard to get back into it again. I did manage to get back to my fitness class, it's the first morning since it started that it's been a bit dark so it's gonna be fun getting up early all winter in the dark for it.


Sat 08/09/18 5km parkrun 32:42
Splits: 6:18, 6:39, 6:38, 7:12, 6:30
Little chilly this morn but after a little jog I was rightly warmed up. It was a grand run, a bit non descript. I had a long run to do this weekend, knew I wouldn't get out on Sun morn so had planned to get out for another run when I got home, therefore I didn't push too hard on this parkrun. I did kinda feel like I was running nearer to 32 than to 33 mins! I didn't really bother looking at the watch when I was going around, I getting good at ignoring it!
I didn't end up getting out for a run when I got home, few things came up. Likewise with Sunday. I know I should have got out for something, just to even make me feel like I was in training for a half but it wasn't the weekend for it.


Mon 10/09/18 8.75 km walk 1hr 24.
It was such a pi$$y evening. Got wet walking home from work and was in no humour to go running in it. But I knew the kiddo had sports and I had to do something productive with my free time. Figured if I wrapped up I'd go walking in it. The weather wasn't too bad once I got going, the rain eased off but I wasn't in the humour for picking up the pace beyond a brisk walk. Feels this morning like my calves got some workout though!

Sunny Dayz

Sun 16/09/18 16km 2:04
Splits: 7:09, 7:46, 8:06, 7:15, 7:46, 8:28, 7:55, 8:02, 7:39, 8:30, 7:51, 7:24, 7:03, 7:35, 7:47, 7:04
It was time to bite the bullet and get back to the long runs. I had put off the previous week's long run as I had been on the sauce the night before. Still had a few drinks on Sat but I finished up and was in bed early.

The thoughts of doing the long run were worse than the run itself - I knew it would be like ripping off a plaster.

Got going later in the morning as I got watching the Berlin marathon. Was aiming for 15 or 16km and not to worry about the pace. Was ticking on ok but when I got to 6km I could feel myself getting tired already. When I got to 8km I couldn't believe I was only half way there, felt like I'd be running for forever! Had started taking a few fruit pastilles at that stage. When I got to the 10km mark I couldn't believe how difficult it had been to get that far and how long it had taken me (1hr 20). But I knew from there that I had an out and back from that point to bring me to 3km from home.

At 12.5km I decided I would try one of the gel cubes I brought with me. I'd never tried gels before, I'd been to scared. But I didn't want liquidy sticky gels cos they would just annoy me, I wanted something more solid so I found Cliff gel bloks. I tried one and it was fine, reminded me of eating jelly cubes as a child. It was pleasant and went down ok. Except when I had just taken it, something flew at my neck, I swiped it away and it went down my top! Cue me stopping on the side of a busy road peering down my top and sports bra trying to get rid of whatever it was!

I didn't notice a mad rush of energy but I did notice that I didn't feel as tired as I was expecting and didn't look for another sweet until after 15km when I was near home. Glad to have gotten my first proper long run done, feels like I'm back training properly again! A bit strange going out on my own, having company definitely makes a long run easier.

Sunny Dayz

Mon 17/09/18 8km 1hr 3 mins
Splits: 7:09, 7:49, 8:29, 7:57, 8:35, 7:12, 7:48, 7:37
Really wasn't feeling this run. Not an ounce of energy or motivation. I just seem to be getting slower on all my runs. Got soaked from kms 3 to 6. I think that was the first rain shower I've run in for quite a while. I may get used to it! I'm wondering why on earth I signed up for another half marathon. I think once I've it done, I might ease off the running for the rest of the year, I'm at the stage where it feels like I'm running cos I have to, rather than I want to.

Sunny Dayz

I'm finding it difficult to get into my stride with training. I seem to be squeezing it all into 3 consecutive days with a parkrun, long run and a run while kiddo does training. Had a few things come up this month which has meant that schedules for everything are all over the place.


Fri 21/09/18
Early morning fitness class. Was late for this which so I got the last available station which was a heavier kettle bell and a bar I don't like. That'll teach me to be on time in future.


I had agreed to do a charity treadmill run in the afternoon. I just could not get into my stride on the treadmill. 20 mins and I was goosed! I swapped over to the exercise bike for a while. Back on the dreadmill for about 40-45 mins where I just walked at a brisk pace and I don't think I've ever sweated so much, there wasn't a breathe of air in the shopping mall we were in.


Sat 22/09/18 5km parkrun 32:04
Splits: 6:17, 6:45, 6:32, 6:53, 6:14
I wasn't really in the humour for a run so I was hoping they needed an extra volunteer but no they had a full rota. It wasn't a bad run once I got going. It makes a difference when you run with others, I had people close in front and behind me and found it really kept me going. Good conditions for running, still tshirt weather.


Mon 24/09/2018 10.16km 1hr 15 mins
Splits: 7:45, 7:12, 8:14, 6:57, 7:57, 6:48, 9:04, 7:04, 6:44, 6:33, 5:31 (0.16)
First time I've ever gone for a run where I've forgotten my running watch. Found an arm strap in the car so used strava on my phone. As a result I couldn't see my distance, time, pace etc while running and it was actually enjoyable. Lovely evening out for a run. Had to stop after 2km to stretch out the calves. Took a walking break after 6km where I was too busy chatting and forgot to pick up the pace back to a run. Got back to the car just after 8km and had 15 mins before kiddo was finished training so I did a few laps on the outside lane of the track while the athletics club was training. For my last lap I took the inside lane as I thought they were finished. But no a few of them decided to do a cool down lap and I pegged it around the track trying to stay ahead of them while they chatted. Strava tells me I hit 4:52/km at one stage! It was nice to finish off the 10km with a bit of a kick.


As you can see there was a big fat gap between Sat and Mon with no long run done. Hubbie was away for the weekend last minute and when he returned I had to sort out the child's birthday stuff. By the time that was done I had a migraine and could hardly walk, never mind run. Have visitors flying in for this weekend and a big get together being planned, and I don't know how I'm going to fit in my long run. Could I do it Sun eve tired and hungover?

Sunny Dayz

Was a busy week with work, visitors and a get together. Had planned on doing my long run on Thurs eve but our visitors' flight was due in later than I thought so by the time hubbie left for the airport, it was too late and dark to go out for a run on my own.


Sun 18km 1hr 19 mins
Splits: 6:47, 7:00, 7:49, 8:08, 7:19, 7:56, 7:37, 7:58, 8:26, 7:26, 7:34, 7:38, 7:27, 8:25, 7:54, 8:21, 7:26, 7:57
The run I wasn't in the humour for - are we ever in the humour for a long run?! Got out later than I had planned - caught up watching the Russian Formula 1 Grand Prix. Started off ok, about 1.5km into the run I found myself fairly warming up, by 2.5km the running jacket was off. It was annoying tied around my waist with my pack of gels hitting off my leg. But by the 8th km the jacket was back on again and there it did stay. Few walking breaks scattered along my run. My head was fine after the busy weekend but my legs were tired, it was hard to lift them. But I kept moving anyway. I used Clif Bloks on my run, I took 3 of them, not sure how many you are supposed to take and when.
Still feels like my pace is too slow. After Tullamore Half I felt I was strong during the race and could have gone quicker (I was supporting someone else's run). But now that this Half is in less than 2 weeks time, I'm not sure now, I just have visions of being all on my own at the back of the field.

Sunny Dayz

Mon 8km walk 1hr 17mins
Usually go for a run on Monday while kiddo is at training. But had been ordered (and it was probably the right idea) to take a rest that evening. Hubbie was to bring child and go for his run. Then a last minute change of plan seen me go instead of him (which I wasn't best pleased about). Nothing for it only lace up the shoes and go for a walk instead. Got soaked towards the end of my run which just put me back in the mood my walk had taken me out of!!

Sunny Dayz

The only bit of running I got during the week was 2 x 1km of XC running with the junior AC - you gotta have someone tail running behind them or they'll just slow right down and chat and mess, it's like herding cats at times! Back to fitness class on Fri morn - I enjoyed it but I'm really going to have to be doing them more than once a fortnight.
Thought I might get to run parkrun but an extra marshal was needed and I didn't mind doing it, I actually really enjoyed it, the crowd taking part were just a fab lot!


Sun 16 km 1hr 56mins
Splits: 6:45, 7:15, 6:44, 7:24, 7:18, 7:25, 7:13, 7:14, 8:01, 7:19, 7:45, 7:23, 6:54, 7:31, 7:01, 6:50
I have to say the hardest part of training for this half has been getting out for my long runs, and it's not even the actual long run, it's the getting out for them part!
Last long run before the half and only thought the day before that perhaps I should do some of the race route seeing as I only live a 10 min drive away! I know someone who has done a run of the whole course and said it's tough enough so this was scaring me. I figured the easiest was to run 5 miles from the start and turn and head back. I'm actually not sure which direction the race loop is, if it's clockwise or anti clockwise. It looks to be the toughest part of the course so I figured if I had it covered in both directions I would be somewhat prepared.
There was a lot of stopping and starting as I had to keep checking my phone to make sure I can going the right way. It was my first time wearing a flipbelt and it was quite handy for getting things although my back was sweating where the belt lies.
When I reached 7.5km, near my turning point, I noticed a road which would have brought me back to my car in about 500 mtrs - oh it was tempting to cut short here. But I knew it just would be of no benefit to me so I ran down to the turning point and back past the turn off again and kept going back the way I came. Busy back roads, all the people I met were so friendly giving me a wave! It was my 3rd quickest 10 mile, didn't feel like it at all!
Glad to get this done, at least I know what that part of the course is like so it mightn't be too bad next time I run it. If that section is at the start of the race it'll drain your legs, if it's towards the end it will be even tougher on already tired legs.


Usually I do 8-10 kms on a Mon eve, legs and body are tired so I'm not sure yet whether to do an easy run or to just go for a walk. Hubbie is doing a 10km on Thurs so he needs a run this eve.

gypsylee

Well done on running part of the route of the half. What day is the half on?

Sunny Dayz

gypsylee wrote: »

Well done on running part of the route of the half. What day is the half on?

It's on Saturday morning.

gypsylee

Sunny Dayz wrote: »

It's on Saturday morning.

Oh I didn't realise it was that soon. Hope it all goes well for you.

Sunny Dayz

Mon 08/10/18 8km 1hr 2mins
Splits: 7:37, 7:33, 8:16, 7:36, 7:19, 9:04, 7:52, 7:12
My last run before the half. Probably one I should have walked instead but I didn't want to hold the hubbie up. The legs felt very heavy and tired, it was such a effort to lift them. Plenty of walking breaks and calf stretches. I thought when I had worked in a 2km stretch of the cycleway into the route from 4.5km to 6.5km that would be easy but I ended up walking a lot of it, thinking I was never going to get to the end of it. That doesn't bode well for the weekend where 5km of it is on cycleway. Legs were elevated last night, so will foam roll them a bit over the week and get out for a 2km run or walk around the block on Thurs or Fri, depending on the weather.


Realised last night that all 3 of us have races this week: hubbie is doing An Costantoir 10km in Phoenix Park on Thurs (it's only for members of the Defence Forces), I'm doing Rosemount half marathon on Sat and the child is doing the County XC on Sunday. So we all have to eat well and get plenty of sleep!

gypsylee

Good luck with the Half tomorrow. Hope the run goes well for you. Most of all enjoy it!

ariana`

Good luck in the half Sunny Dayz

chickey2

Best of luck tomorrow!

Huzzah!

Good luck tomorrow

eyrie

Good luck this morning Sunny Dayz! Hope you have a great race

Sunny Dayz

Half marathon 2hr 25 mins 35 sec - PB
Splits: 6:56, 6:46, 6:45, 6:40, 6:35, 6:31, 6:40, 6:44, 6:49, 7:18, 6:55, 6:38, 6:26, 7:21, 6:59, 7:19, 7:05, 7:10, 6:56, 7:15, 6:54, 5:59 (0.1)

Damp and drizzley morning. Very heavy shower just before I left the house so I figured this was gonna be a tough run. Luckily it lightened off and it was just light drizzle or stopped for most of the race.
Part of me wasn’t looking forward to the race – I was worried that it would be mainly faster runners and I would be all alone. Chatted a few people I knew, a lot of local runners were there, I’d say the parkrun attendance was fairly down! Had enough time for a little warm up, I positioned myself right at the back and we were away.

Km 1-5
In the first km the two women I started beside passed me out after 500m and headed off. I knew I was last. Everyone was heading further away in front of me and I thought this was what my race was going to be like and I was out of my depth. During the 2nd km I passed a lady who was doing a run/walk approach. During the 3rd km I passed another lady who seemed to have started too fast and was struggling a bit. Got chatting to a lovely older gent on the 4th km who put me to shame with his nonchalant approach to running, no bother to him. 5th km saw me pass another lady and then we were onto the cycleway section.

Km 6-10
This whole stretch was along the cycleway. I have mixed feelings about the cycleway: it’s a nice flattish surface for running on, but at times it can seem boring and never ending. To keep me going there was a lady in a local running group top that I kept in my sights. I did get near her at one point but later on in the race she pulled away. Looking at strava there was a gradual climb the whole way along this section but you wouldn’t notice it at all.

Km 11-15
Off the cycleway after 10.5km. Few climbs along here, especially at 11.5km, that was tough. Was ticking off the kms, keeping an eye on the pace, knowing I had to hit target for 15km to stay in a shout of sub 2:30 finish. Few hills, few corners, indicative of the course to the end really. Another tough climb on the 14th km and then on was on familiar turf – the route I ran last Sunday. I knew what was ahead of me and that I could do it. Think I passed someone on the 15th km?

Km 16 – 21.1
Legs were starting to feel tired. Mind was starting to win out a little and a few walking breaks were had. Got chatting to a fella on the 16th km, and he had an inspiring story to tell of his running. Trying to tick off the kms, anticipating what was ahead. I can’t remember what distance I was at when I had 2 hours run but when I checked my watch I realised that I quite surely would be in under 2:30. Just kept it going as best I could, few walking breaks but trying to get to the finish as soon as possible. I know I checked the watch at 20km to see if I was under 2:20 guide pace but I couldn’t tell ya what time it gave, only that it was good and I really pushed on then. Could see myself catching up on people but only got past one before the finish. Couldn’t believe I was seeing a 25 on the clock and I’ve never smiled so much crossing a finish line.

I cannot believe I got a 5 minute pb! How is that even possible? Race was well organised, surprising large crowd taking part, many people had traveled for it. A challenging route, if it was run the other direction it might be a little easier. Good spread laid on after, bit of a catch up with those who did the 10km and half. It was great to be home so soon after!

Will be taking it easy running wise for the rest of the year. I’ve no more races planned for the rest of the year or even into next year. I just want to get out and run when I want to, not when I have to.

juke

Ah - congratulations on a huge PB. Well done.

gypsylee

Huge congrats on your PB, great result. Well done on a great run.

ariana`

That's a great PB, really well done!

Huzzah!

Yay, five-minute PB - well done!

eyrie

Sunny Dayz wrote: »

I’ve never smiled so much crossing a finish line.

Brilliant! You deserved to be smiling too - 5 minutes off your PB is huge! Congratulations Sunny Dayz!

Sunny Dayz

Sat 20/10/18 5km parkrun 32:22
Splits: 6:33, 6:59, 6:38, 6:55, 5:58
Wasn't really planning on running again so soon after the half marathon. Had planned on volunteering instead but for once they were inundated with helpers so I said I'd take it handy - easier said than done! Was just behind one of the regulars for the first half of the route, was nearly passing her at 2.5km but decided against it as I felt I wouldn't have able to stay in front of her. She got away on me after 3km but I was caught back up with her at 4km and decided to pass her then. I didn't want her overtaking me again so that's why my last km was so quick! So much for taking it easy, and rest a day for every mile raced! Legs felt heavy going around and didn't think I was that near to 32 mins, felt more like over 33 mins. Body was stiff after parkrun, I was waddling just like after my half marathon the previous week, - quarter the distance but the same effects!

Sunny Dayz

Sat 03/11/18 5km parkrun 31:37
Splits: 6:05, 6:09, 6:13, 6:33, 6:05
Ended up missing parkrun last weekend due to a funeral so this weekend we decided on a bit of tourism. The course we did was fairly flat, one or two very slight rises. But it was mainly all on gravel which made it a bit tiring but good all weather course. First km flew by, it was difficult to try and hold back. 2nd km again still flying it and that brought us to one full loop of the outside of the park. 3rd km was another run around the perimeter still going a good pace. However 3.5km seen me taking a walking break which I probably shouldn't have done, and again another little walk after 4km - I think these cost me a sub 31 mins which was a little disappointing. However it was a parkrun, not a race, there's always next time.

Sunny Dayz

Bar the odd parkrun, running has been pretty non existent for me the past month. I did need a bit of time off running and following a plan after 2 half marathons in 6 weeks. Madness... but I was so glad to do them. Work had taken over the past month and it really was a case of up, work, home, eat anything, bed - rinse and repeat. There's a been a few things going on and a few changes with family and home. I haven't been able to make gym sessions or junior coaching and my routine has been completely out of snyc. I'm hoping this week will see a bit of a return to normality.


In the middle of all the madness and tiredness I managed another stint as parkrun run director. I think it went off ok, there's a lot to juggle, but luckily the volunteers I had on the morning have plenty of experience and were a great help.


Thurs 15/11/18 12.4km walk 2hrs approx.
Had the morning off work so rather than have a lie on in bed like any normal person, I laced up the runners and got out for a big long walk to combat the cabin fever. Listened to the longer parkrun podcast. Made it home just in time before the rain. Was wrecked for the afternoon in work though and my feet were sore!


Sat 17/11/18 5km parkrun 31:18
Splits: 6:09, 6:29, 6:19, 6:36, 6:09
Such a lovely mild morning for a run. It felt like ages since I ran my local parkrun and it was good to catch up with a few people. Started off fine, not too fast. After a km I found that a woman who usually does my speed or quicker was in my sight so I said I'd stick with her. However after 2km I found myself passing her out which initially was a bit worrying but I knew I wasn't going too fast. Fella in a red parkrun top further up was my next carrot. Around the 3.5km mark I found myself struggling a little, I was gasping for a drop of water, my water consumption has been pretty poor this past while. Managed to distract myself my focusing on red parkrun top. Passed him out after 4km and then just tried to stay ahead of him to the finish.


Sun 18/11/2018 15km approx cycle
Lovely bright afternoon so we went for a family cycle. Legs on the return journey were a bit tired but a stop for some hot chocolate cured that.

Sunny Dayz

Mon 19/10/18 9km 1hr 10 mins
Splits: 6:54, 7:28, 9:06, 7:43, 8:14, 7:36, 8:58, 7:02, 6:59
Trying to get back into some sort of running routine again after the break. The usual run while child at training. Might need to change up the route a bit, I'll be honest I found it a bit boring. I am limited in where I can go so it needs to be lit up and safe for a lone female jogger. I was a little disappointed to see the slow time but I have to remember it's my first longish run since the half and I'm only getting back into things again. Body felt fine, just tired, sluggish and jingly (and not in a festive way!)

ariana`

Sunny Dayz wrote: »

Mon 19/10/18 9km 1hr 10 mins
Splits: 6:54, 7:28, 9:06, 7:43, 8:14, 7:36, 8:58, 7:02, 6:59
Trying to get back into some sort of running routine again after the break. The usual run while child at training. Might need to change up the route a bit, I'll be honest I found it a bit boring. I am limited in where I can go so it needs to be lit up and safe for a lone female jogger. I was a little disappointed to see the slow time but I have to remember it's my first longish run since the half and I'm only getting back into things again. Body felt fine, just tired, sluggish and jingly (and not in a festive way!)

I can empathise with this. There's no footpaths or street lighting in my village. Is there any group or club near that you could join? I have acquired a few running friends over the last couple of years and it's a life saver this time of year as we feel a lot safer going out in a group and the combined light from all our torches makes it a lot easier to see the road too. Chatting might help with the boredom factor too.

Sunny Dayz

ariana` wrote: »

I can empathise with this. There's no footpaths or street lighting in my village. Is there any group or club near that you could join? I have acquired a few running friends over the last couple of years and it's a life saver this time of year as we feel a lot safer going out in a group and the combined light from all our torches makes it a lot easier to see the road too. Chatting might help with the boredom factor too.

The athletics club has adult sessions on beside where my son trains. But the session that would suit me ability wise doesn't suit time wise and the session that suits time wise is too advanced for me. Plus they mainly use the track and I'd be bored doing laps! I sometimes rope in the husband but he's getting busy with different groups he's involved in and the meetings seem to all be on a Monday night.

Sunny Dayz

Boards is being a PITA - I had typed up a log post and Boards decided just to time out or not post it or whatever. So here I go again....


Fri 23/11/2018
Gym session, first one in weeks. It wasn't as bad I expected, my core and arms have weakened and I had forgotten what some of the exercises were called. I figured I really should be doing some of these at home a few times a week.


Sun 25/11/2018 8km 52:08
Splits: 6:13, 6:26, 6:24, 6:51, 6:18, 6:35, 6:48
A local group had organised a few distances for charity. I decided to do the 7km which was a bit of a strange distance but I'm guessing country roads dictate the distances! Around the first corner to be greeted by a hill and that's more of less how the race went! Hills rolling into more hills, little respite with a downhill.
At the 3km point we turned off and the 10km route carried on. Had an actual downhill at this point but by 3.5km we were back to constant climbing and it was starting to get tiring so I ended up taking a walking break. At 3.5km our route joined back up with the 10km route so this pushed me on a bit. A long straight stretch of rolling rises, I just put the head down and tried to keep going. A few walkers must have started early as I was passing them out here. The route then joined the main route and this was a better surface and not as hilly. However when I passed the 8km sign (for the 10km) my watch was just over 6km so I thought something might be amiss. By the time the route turned off the main road I was at 6.8km and I was nowhere near the finish. 7km came and went and I didn't know was I anywhere near the finish. I have to say I started to feel demotivated then. However I then spied 2 houses I recognised from near the start and pressed on and passed a woman. I ran to what I figured was the finish line but I wasn't sure. I stopped and someone said people were just going by their watch and running up further up the road to get to 10km. My watch said 7.5km so I decided feck it I'd round up to 8km.
Great spread of food laid on after. Happy enough I think with that time on sore legs and a tough course, at least it's given me a time to gauge for 5 miles (thinking of doing Raheny end of Jan and hoping to get sub 50).

Sunny Dayz

Sat 01/12/2018 5km parkrun 32 mins
Splits: 6:01, 6:50, 6:34, 6:53, 6:20
Usual parkrun, mild enough morning, I was still running in a tshirt and it December! First 2km were grand, nothing worth noting. At the 3km mark I caught up with a teenage girl I didn't recognise and I could see she was struggling a bit. I got her to fall in line with me, I tried to keep the pace steady and easy and to keep her going. I chatted to her a bit to keep her distracted. She was finding it a bit hard to run and talk at the same time. She was doing so well but unfortunately I lost her just after 4km.


Sat 08/12/2018 5km parkrun 33:19
Splits: 6:53, 6:43, 6:40, 6:28, 6:21
We were away visiting family and convinced them to do parkrun with us! They were a bit curious about parkrun and why we liked it so much. They couldn't get over the fact that it's completely free, my bro in law asked that surely you have to pay when you register? Naw all free and volunteer lead!
A bigger crowd than my usual parkrun, nearly 200 people but it didn't feel like it. An out and back course along a lake with a loop from km2 - km3 to manage the crowd on the turnabout. I ran with my sis in law who was excited but nervous about parkrun so I let her set the pace. She did so well, she only showed signs of struggling for the last km and she was well chuffed to have run her fastest ever 5km! It was a lovely flat course, a little congested for the first km. I would have liked to have run it faster but I was more than happy to run with M and give her a positive experience of parkrun. I can't get over the splits - I don't think I've ever run a progressive 5km before, it wasn't intentional! I think that was my 10th different parkrun.


I've been finding it difficult to motivate myself to get out for a run. A few times I've said to myself I'll get out for a run in the evening, then when I get home from work I'm either too busy or too tired to go out. I think it's just the time of year, work takes over in Oct/Nov and then it's hard to pick up the momentum again. I had targeted to hit 1,000km by the end of the year and I'm on 940km. Before the end of the year I have 2 parkruns to run (as I'm volunteering at 1), 2 charity 5kms, a charity 3km and a 3km race. So I'm hard pushed to make my target.

Sunny Dayz

Sat 15 Dec 2018 - 5km parkrun 34:07
Splits: 6:38, 6:55, 7:18, 7:28, 6:52
god why on earth did I do this parkrun? The weather wasn't too bad leaving the house but by the time we got to the start area the rain was starting to come down. I didn't bother doing a warm up, I just stood in the shelter near the start. After starting, I'd say I wasn't even gone 500m when I thought what on earth am I doing this for, what has possessed me, how am I gonna do this for the next half hour, should I just call it quits? But I figured the volunteers came out to help out when they could have baled on us runners, so I wasn't going to bale on them. The rain eased off a bit after 2km, it just came and went over the course of the rest of the run. Just after 2km there was a climb and that's where my calves hurt cos I didn't do a warm up or any stretches. Just walked it out and got going again. The more I keep moving, the sooner I'll finish. The last 200m I just put the boot down and went for it, I was getting cold and fed up, most of the previous finishers were heading back to their cars and I just wanted to be done. After finishing I collected a few signs on my way to the car via the store room, just so when the parkrun was over that the volunteers could get going asap.
The 3km charity run that was supposed to be on that afternoon was cancelled. It was probably for the best but I was looking forward to it - I wanted to use it as practice for the 3km race I'm thinking of doing at the end of the month.

Sunny Dayz

Mon 17/12/18 4.8km 35:43
Splits: 6:45, 7:11, 7:46, 7:48, 7:50 (0.8)
A local running group had organised a charity run on the track called the 12 laps of Christmas - 12 x 400m, not quite 5km but close enough!
Had said I'd take part in it but haven't been well the past few days, trying to stop a cold developing further. My head was telling me rest up with hot fluids, my heart was saying I was looking forward to running this. So I ran...
First few laps started off ok, but after 4 laps I just wanted to peel away and hide. My calves were sore, my legs were like lead, I was barely lifting my feet and really just getting nowhere. The wind didn't help, running against it was very draining. I was lapped multiple times by people and even lapped once by someone I usually would be quicker than. Think I was near enough the last to finish. I probably shouldn't have run that event, clearly my body wasn't able for it. But it did clear my head a bit, physically and mentally and I slept better last night.

Sunny Dayz

I've neglected my poor log! I actually did a bit of running over the Christmas. I said when I got back to work I'd update it, then I was busy at work (I'm still busy at work) and then each week passed by and I realised I had more to write. Procrastination!


I took an intentional little break from running. I was trying to prevent myself getting sick right before Christmas plus I was busy with Christmas prep. I volunteered at parkrun the Sat before Christmas doling out hot chocolate at the finish line, that seemed to go down well. I actually enjoyed the break and not putting pressure on myself to run and not feeling bad cos I haven't run.


Weds 26/12/18 5km race/fun run 31:05
Splits: 5:55, 6:03, 6:20, 6:38, 6:03
A local GAA club was having their annual 5km run. It's along the cycleway which is grand cos it's flat but it's just a straight out and back so it can be a bit boring. I was giving it a good shot cos it's a flat run but at the same time I was mindful of the amount I've had to eat and drink over the previous few days. Probably could have shaved a few more seconds off it but I was just happy to have a decent run again.


Weds 26/12/18 1 mile 9:42
km splits: 5:55, 5:49 (0.62)
Another GAA club were hosting the GOAL mile so we went there after the 5km run (and after tea and the chats). It doesn't be a fast mile here, it's mainly locals, club members and families having a wander and then a catch up in the stand. It wasn't too busy when we landed so after 1 lap walk to warm up we set off. Not my quickest mile but a decent run all the same. The corners of the track that go around the pitch are too tight, you have to slow down to get around them. Still it was a good stretch out, for a good cause and a nice catch up with a few people after.


Fri 28/12/2018 3km race 17:01
Splits: 5:37, 5:55, 5:28
An A.C. up near my husband's neck of the woods do this 3km each year whereby they take your 5km race time and then start runners off at intervals - slowest first, then faster and faster runners - the idea is that you all kinda finish around the same time. This is my third time doing this race and I wanted to get around 17 mins.
The first few times I've done this I've been passed out by most of the field, and it's not the nicest to hear all the feet coming behind you and passing you out. However this time I was only passed by two people in the 2nd km and 2 or 3 people in the last km. Little disappointed I dropped the pace a bit one the middle km but glad to see km's in the 5:xx. I found it so well organised and well timed with the intervals this year.


Sat 29/12/2018 5km parkrun 33:21
Splits: 6:16, 6:57, 6:38, 6:53, 6:19
A different parkrun to my usual, again up around my husband's part of the country. A tougher parkrun with fair climbs and drops but a better surface. I have done well at this run in the past and probably should have aimed for 31:xx. But I had a good race the day before and a late night the Fri night so I was just going to enjoy and complete the parkrun.


And there ends my running for 2018.
Distance 965km (goal was increased from 750km to 1,000km)
A new 5km pb
A new half marathon pb with 2 more halfs under my belt.

Sunny Dayz

Not sure what the running goals really are for this year. Improve my times for 5km and 10km really. No major race to work towards like the last few years. I've registered for Raheny 5 mile and the Lough Boora half marathon relay so far. But I started 2019 with a bang with a double parkrun on New Year's Day!!

01/01/2019 5km parkrun 31:48
Splits: 6:18, 6:24, 6:17, 6:42, 6:03
Was toying with the idea of trying the "parkrun double". But it meant an early start on new year's day and also the co-operation of the child. When the child realised that he would get 2 run credits and bring him much nearer to his 100 run milestone he was on for it (kinda).
We enjoyed the nibbles and drinks and rang in the new year. The child travelled in his cosy dressing gown! We rocked up early enough so we could have the chats. Run started on the button as the RD was aware a few people were going to trying make it to the other parkrun after. My leg was a bit sore as I banged it off the table the night before (not drinks related) but after 3 km it was ok. First half of the run was along a canal and it was lovely to just see the spread of people running along the bank. The return journey was along the cycleway, I'm developing an aversion to running on a cycleway, it's just straight ahead and feels slow. The last km I had to give myself a kick up the ass and try and claw back a few finish positions that I lost in the previous km. Such a buzz at the finish line, plenty of people about, met a few from my local parkrun and a few I recognised from other parkruns. And then it was on the road for the next parkrun.

01/01/2019 5km parkrun 33:10
Splits: 6:40, 6:25, 6:43, 6:38, 6:30
Rocked up to the next parkrun to see a few familiar faces from the last run and some faces from my regular parkrun. It's a little strange running with parkrun buddies at a different run! Another good route to run and good conditions and a great little cheerleader along the route. Run was manageable considering we had already run a parkrun that morning. However I miscalculated the route - it's two large loops and two small loops and on the first small loop I was putting a bit extra in to finish when the person running in front of me turned for the loop again. Was annoyed with myself as I've done this run before. But head down and keep going.
Turns out this was my 5th different parkrun in a row.

03/01/2019 3km walk 31 mins
Just needed a bit a fresh air after a busy day in work but wasn't in running humour.

04/01/2019 2km walk 27 mins
Set off for a walk but was only down the road when I met my teenager heading home so I had to turn back. For a fella who can fairly run, he walks as slow!

05/01/2019
Was at parkrun but no running for me - I was run director! I'm nervous before doing this but on the day it is enjoyable and everyone was in good form for the first parkrun of the year.

07/01/2019 8 km 1:17
Splits: 7:46, 9:30, 10:26, 10:20, 9:04, 7:45, 9:59, 10:26
Back to running while the youngster was at training. I wasn't even a km in and I just wasn't feeling it, just wasn't in the humour or motivated to run. I dunno was it the route, if I was under or over dressed, if the playlist wasn't right - I just wasn't in the humour. But I wasn't going to let this time go to waste so I figured a walk would be just as good and would have to be brisk to cover the route and be back to collect himself. I think I managed about a km of running after that and then the last 200m as it was time for collection. Must do better next time.

12/01/2019 parkrun 5km 31:05
Splits: 6:21, 6:23, 6:15, 6:40, 6:12
Pleasantly surprised at this. Good running weather if a little slippy in spots underfoot. Started off well and even passed a few people and extended a lead over them. I passed a fella around the 2km mark and after I thought I might be going too fast and that he would pass me again. So him behind me was my motivation to get around the rest of the course! I know it's a run not a race...

12/01/2019 4.8km walk 46 mins
My local town had organised an operation transformation walk so we made our way back over after parkrun to do this. Enjoyable brisk walk and we bribed the child to take part with the promise of lunch.

gypsylee

Well done on great runs over the Christmas break and on the Parkrun double. I don't think I would be able to run twice in one day!

A good start to 2019 for you too. Good luck in Raheny. I ran it last year and it is a lovely course and great atmosphere.

Sunny Dayz

14/01/2019 10km 1hr 21mins
Splits: 7:17, 7:59, 8:15, 8:44, 8:32, 8:19, 8:03, 8:32, 7:46, 7:54
Changed up my route hoping a change of scenery would improve my run. A more enjoyable run than last week. Right up through the middle of town, easier to run now that the main street paths have been upgraded. I wasn't looking at my watch bar to check distance and what time of night it was - didn't really pay attention to pace. Turns out it was a fairly slow pace. Few pauses along the way to stretch the calves a few times. Think I was a little overdressed with a long sleeve, a running jacket and hi vis but it did turn a bit cooler for the last 2 or 3 km. Coming back near the car it was 8.5km with about 10 mins til himself finished training. Went down the road past the car a bit and back up and was at 9.5km so ran around the car park keeping an eye out for himself while around up to 10km!

Sunny Dayz

19/01/19 5km parkrun 31:57 per results
I was too busy chatting at the start that by the time the run director's briefing had started I realised that I hadn't switched on my garmin. It was searching for signal while she spoke and for one lap of the course. When I eventually got signal I recorded what was left of the run, but it was strange with my watch beeping at different km markers. A fairly non descript run. The numbers at my local have increased since Christmas and more runners around my speed which is nice for company and some friendly competition and motivation.

Sunny Dayz

27/01/2019 5 mile race 50:41 (official)
My splits: 6:20, 6:23, 6:25, 6:02, 6:24, 6:10, 6:50, 6:03
Overall feeling, it was a grand time but could have done better. Was there in plenty of time, got nicely warmed up, it wasn't as cold as I was expecting. Got to the start near the back but that suited me fine.
First 1km was congested but to be expected but the second km was the same. 3rd km the field started to spread out a bit. 4th km was lovely. On the 5th km I could feel myself starting to struggle just a little. 6th km brought us around by and into st Anne's park - a lovely spot with great support. I made a mental note to try out the parkrun here sometime. I found the out and back section in the park tough. I spent the whole out scanning the crowd for my son. I didn't see him so I took it that he's either having a pretty good race or that I missed him. I found the back section here tougher going, I was nearly going cross eyed with the flow of people going the other way. I just found this 7th km tough, I knew I wasn't going to get sub 50 mins and I felt I was struggling. When the watch beeped for the last km I decided I would try to get as near to 50mins as I could. I got to the corner of the small park and though ah I'm just around the corner here and on for the finish. But no I'd forgotten I had to go right around the park and was running out of steam. I didn't feel like I had the kick in the legs for the finishing straight.


One of those races where I felt I could have done better. Bar parkrun I haven't really been running much this month, had I been doing even a bit during the week I might have felt fitter. I got lunch when we got to Dublin and had a gorgeous Panini - but the pesto in it kept repeating on me along the run. And lastly - sorry for the TMI - but I had a bit of a lady problem along the way. Even though I went to the loo before the start, I still suffered a bit of leakage along the run. I usually wear a sanitary or tenna pad but I didn't think of it this time and I have to say the last 2 km in particular I did not feel comfortable at all. Few lessons to learn from this race and a bit of a kick up the backside for me to start doing a bit more.

gypsylee

Well done on a great run yesterday.

Sunny Dayz

You'd think since getting a race done (Raheny 5 mile) that it would have fired up the belly and got me out running again. Short answer: No.
I had contemplated signing up for the Maher 100 mile event for Feb, then considered doing a modified version of swapping the miles for kms. Then I missed the start of the challenge cos I'd a hen party, then it took a few days to recover from the hen, then I was a few days behind and literally couldn't bring myself out to make a start. Excuses excuses. I'm feeling guilty when I see others posting their miles on facebook.


28/01/2019
Post Raheny recovery 8km walk around the town while the kid was at training.


09/02/2019
6km walk while I had an hour to myself at home in the afternoon. I had volunteered for parkrun that morning but arrived dressed to run in the hope that someone might volunteer on the day but I was handed the hefty responsibility of the timer. Eeek!


16/02/2019
Missed parkrun as junior had a xc race (and got through to the all Irelands). So a 6km walk in the afternoon.


18/02/2019
With himself at training, had a 10km route planned out to run. Started off nice and easy, conversational pace. Once I got over the 2km mark I started to feel light headed. Walked a bit, tried to start up running again a couple of times but couldn't get back into it. Shortened my route and settled for a walk instead. Disappointed myself. I just haven't been able to get back into running.


Was supposed to have a local 7km race on the previous Sunday but a water leak in the house where a bathroom became a proverbial wet room put paid to that.


I do have one race signed up for. I'm doing a half relay in Lough Boora at the start of April. I should be training for that now, especially when the two weekends before the race are completely taken up.