Wednesday, 31 May 2006
May 2006 Monthly Stats
MONTHLY KM - 213 (missed 12 days of running), last year: 306km
YEARLY TO DATE - 1181 (down from last year, 1380km same time)
INJURIES - none
EXCUSES - an operation to remove a lump from my chest and then an infection which resulted in re-admittance to hospital, nauseau and vomitting for a few days and of course knocking myself out on the bathroom floor. So for once I actually had a real excuse.
RACES COMPLETED - The GTR & 10km Sri Chinmoy @ Williamstown
RACES COMING UP - AV 16km XC & a teams Road Relay
GOALS - For the month, to get some decent kms into the legs
Wed 31 May 06, S2F training run plus some extra
13.5km today and 58km for the week so far, 19/31 runs this month
Left work at 5ish today and dropped my stuff at the car which was parked on the Tan. Jogged at 5 min pace down to Fed Square and dropped my long sleeve T and then made my way around the 5k training course with my Garmin to measure and to get a few k's in at 4:30 pace. The course was 5.35km which I did in a touch over 22 min. Had a drink and put my LS on and chatted with a few of the regulars. Tonight I was leading the 'very' unpopular Fast 5km Group and yet again no one wanted to play so I acted as the 2nd leader with the medium 5k group.
Tonight they were trialing the 5 & 10k courses that are being used for the Run to the G, of course with a jog to the start line the run ended up being 5.8km. Personally I thought the 5k course was a little ordinary, too many turns. The Leader of the group told them he was taking them out at 5-5:15 pace but never got near there, I kept telling him they were sitting 5:30-45, but oh well, I just cruised and in final 2k took a couple of the guys and one girl and got them up to 5 min pace, he then caught up and took them in at that pace, I then dropped back and picked the stragglers.
Finished with some more chatting and then ran back to my car. All up over 13km for the evening, all fairly casual but enjoyable.
Today I volunteered to be a Pace Leader for either the 10k or Half Marathon, I'm not too fussed what they get me to do, the Pace Leaders for 1:30 & 1:40 are gone and all of the 10k times are vacant, I told Amanda (S2F) that I shouldn't pace the 40 min group as I haven't done that myself yet. And of course tonight Old Miler gave me a couple of 'jabs' re my 10k time..... all good and agreed.
Left work at 5ish today and dropped my stuff at the car which was parked on the Tan. Jogged at 5 min pace down to Fed Square and dropped my long sleeve T and then made my way around the 5k training course with my Garmin to measure and to get a few k's in at 4:30 pace. The course was 5.35km which I did in a touch over 22 min. Had a drink and put my LS on and chatted with a few of the regulars. Tonight I was leading the 'very' unpopular Fast 5km Group and yet again no one wanted to play so I acted as the 2nd leader with the medium 5k group.
Tonight they were trialing the 5 & 10k courses that are being used for the Run to the G, of course with a jog to the start line the run ended up being 5.8km. Personally I thought the 5k course was a little ordinary, too many turns. The Leader of the group told them he was taking them out at 5-5:15 pace but never got near there, I kept telling him they were sitting 5:30-45, but oh well, I just cruised and in final 2k took a couple of the guys and one girl and got them up to 5 min pace, he then caught up and took them in at that pace, I then dropped back and picked the stragglers.
Finished with some more chatting and then ran back to my car. All up over 13km for the evening, all fairly casual but enjoyable.
Today I volunteered to be a Pace Leader for either the 10k or Half Marathon, I'm not too fussed what they get me to do, the Pace Leaders for 1:30 & 1:40 are gone and all of the 10k times are vacant, I told Amanda (S2F) that I shouldn't pace the 40 min group as I haven't done that myself yet. And of course tonight Old Miler gave me a couple of 'jabs' re my 10k time..... all good and agreed.
Tuesday, 30 May 2006
Mon 30 May 06, 8 x 600m with 400m floats
12.5km today and 44km for the week so far, 18/30 runs this month
A good sleep last night as far as I'm concerned, just short of 8 hours, which is nearly the second time within the last week. Funny dream again, but woke early this time. A busy day at the office again, got heaps done, arrived at 7:30am and left at 4:30pm so I could get to training just after 5pm.
Arrived to find Adrian doing a session with Cam, which is great to see, secretly Burkie is trying to push Adrian a little to see how quick he can go after a few consistent weeks. Adrian (similar age to me) is one of these people who can train once or twice a week and still manage to run 37 min for 10k. Dave S, was leaving the track for a warm up with one of the girls, so a couple of quick hello's, grabbed young Chris C and took him for a w/up on the grass track around the Complex. Managed to keep him going for 10 min and then I continued on for another lap and then a lap of the aths track doing some drills, all up 16 min.
A few stretches and a chat with Dave S (hadn't seen for many weeks) and then Burkie suggested we jump in with one of the squads who had already commenced doing reps of 600s with a floating 400m recovery. We should have been running just faster than 90 sec per lap, but to hang with the group we sat on 91-92, but after a few reps, I got slightly frustrated with the mucking around with their recovery distance and the slower pace so myself and Dave took off by ourselves. Dave who is just getting back into the rep work did 5 reps and I continued on by myself for my final 3. I knew the session was easy as I was talking a few amount and asking Burkie for coaching pointers whilst passing him. Just prior to my 8th rep I asked Burkie if I should continue on and do 10 as it was very easy, a quick shake of the head!
Splits (recovery 400m):
2:19 (2:47)
2:17 (2:50) too long, this is why we left the others
2:21 (2:33)
2:20 (2:40)
2:21 (2:42)
2:18 (2:35) the final 3 reps were by myself
2:15 (2:30)
2:03, walked 300m and then jogged 3 laps, then stopped and put on my Skins as my legs we getting cold (was in shorts today), then did 5 laps of the grass inside the track. Finishing with some standing stretching, using the steeple for some of the exercises.
Today's session was easy, but was satisified, 2 years ago I would not have dreamed I could do such a session and today I thought it was easy, no walking from the start of the first rep until crossing for the 8th rep, all of the floats were running the entire time.
A good sleep last night as far as I'm concerned, just short of 8 hours, which is nearly the second time within the last week. Funny dream again, but woke early this time. A busy day at the office again, got heaps done, arrived at 7:30am and left at 4:30pm so I could get to training just after 5pm.
Arrived to find Adrian doing a session with Cam, which is great to see, secretly Burkie is trying to push Adrian a little to see how quick he can go after a few consistent weeks. Adrian (similar age to me) is one of these people who can train once or twice a week and still manage to run 37 min for 10k. Dave S, was leaving the track for a warm up with one of the girls, so a couple of quick hello's, grabbed young Chris C and took him for a w/up on the grass track around the Complex. Managed to keep him going for 10 min and then I continued on for another lap and then a lap of the aths track doing some drills, all up 16 min.
A few stretches and a chat with Dave S (hadn't seen for many weeks) and then Burkie suggested we jump in with one of the squads who had already commenced doing reps of 600s with a floating 400m recovery. We should have been running just faster than 90 sec per lap, but to hang with the group we sat on 91-92, but after a few reps, I got slightly frustrated with the mucking around with their recovery distance and the slower pace so myself and Dave took off by ourselves. Dave who is just getting back into the rep work did 5 reps and I continued on by myself for my final 3. I knew the session was easy as I was talking a few amount and asking Burkie for coaching pointers whilst passing him. Just prior to my 8th rep I asked Burkie if I should continue on and do 10 as it was very easy, a quick shake of the head!
Splits (recovery 400m):
2:19 (2:47)
2:17 (2:50) too long, this is why we left the others
2:21 (2:33)
2:20 (2:40)
2:21 (2:42)
2:18 (2:35) the final 3 reps were by myself
2:15 (2:30)
2:03, walked 300m and then jogged 3 laps, then stopped and put on my Skins as my legs we getting cold (was in shorts today), then did 5 laps of the grass inside the track. Finishing with some standing stretching, using the steeple for some of the exercises.
Today's session was easy, but was satisified, 2 years ago I would not have dreamed I could do such a session and today I thought it was easy, no walking from the start of the first rep until crossing for the 8th rep, all of the floats were running the entire time.
Monday, 29 May 2006
Mon 29 May 06, casual run in Hoppers
12.3km today and 32km for the week so far, 17/29 runs this month
Well I'm not sure when I last run after work from home, taking off after 5pm, but tonight I was reminded that I need to find my 'whore light' (red flashing), it became very dark whilst on the roads...and because I tend to run into the traffic I did notice that I was having to move to the side more often. I was wearing a white Adidas climax T which helped to be seen, but my light would have been convenient.
Anyway, made my way down so roads past DPI and the back way to the track and then back upto Hogan's Rd, varying my pace, but generally sitting between 4:50 & 5:10 pace. I wore my Garmin, which had me run 12.3 in 62:01, casual run, a fewk's in the bank.
It was only yesterday I noticed that I may not make 200km for the month, it would have been a LONG time since I haven't made 200k in a month, of course I know I had an op and then got sick, but just noting. Anyway, I think I will just make it now anyway.
Rep session tomorrow, will let Burkie set, no suggestion from me, will wait and see. Hopefully there will be some company, I know Adrian will be there, he is much faster, but it is someone to chat with during w/up & c/d and maybe the start of the first rep.
Well I'm not sure when I last run after work from home, taking off after 5pm, but tonight I was reminded that I need to find my 'whore light' (red flashing), it became very dark whilst on the roads...and because I tend to run into the traffic I did notice that I was having to move to the side more often. I was wearing a white Adidas climax T which helped to be seen, but my light would have been convenient.
Anyway, made my way down so roads past DPI and the back way to the track and then back upto Hogan's Rd, varying my pace, but generally sitting between 4:50 & 5:10 pace. I wore my Garmin, which had me run 12.3 in 62:01, casual run, a fewk's in the bank.
It was only yesterday I noticed that I may not make 200km for the month, it would have been a LONG time since I haven't made 200k in a month, of course I know I had an op and then got sick, but just noting. Anyway, I think I will just make it now anyway.
Rep session tomorrow, will let Burkie set, no suggestion from me, will wait and see. Hopefully there will be some company, I know Adrian will be there, he is much faster, but it is someone to chat with during w/up & c/d and maybe the start of the first rep.
Sunday, 28 May 2006
Sun 28 May 06, Sri Chinmoy @ Williamstown
20km today for the week so far, 16/28 runs this month
A freaky dream last night woke me about 3ish in tears, but excluding that I had one of those BIG sleeps that I don't have often, in bed 10:15pm and asleep quickly and woke at 5:30am (before alarm). Had breaky (porridge) and then showered and got ready for what I was hoping to be a great run. The weather was very fine, according to Foxtel it was 8 degrees in Hoppers at 6am and the wind was 4kts, very pleasant morning! Luke (one of Cam's mates) arrived at 6:30ish and we chatted until I was ready to go, he was following me. Luke runs with Western A's but due to his apprenticeship he is having trouble racing on Saturdays, so a Sunday race works well for him whilst he is preparing himself for the State X-C Champs on 22 Jul at Jells Park.
Caught up with Beki, Chris & Em whilst waiting for Luke to pick up his number and then took off for a cruisie 15 min warm up along the waters edge on the HM/Marathon course. Changed into race gear, singlet, shorts and flats and then made our way to the front of the pack to do a few strides and plonk ourselves on the front line.
Normal Sri Chinmoy pre race talk and minute silence for health and peace. This year every race was starting together, 4k, 10k, HM & marathon as well as walks, whilst this worked ok for me, I am sure it was a little more congested at the back of the pack.
Even though I have had a few hectic weeks, resulting in an operation, which got infected, vomiting and losing appetite for a few days, falling over and knocking myself out and have an ordinary training week, I was (for some reason) still confident I could manage a sub 40 min performance!!! WTF/OMG what was I thinking.
Started off fairly aggressive (I know, what's different to other times), and thought I settle into my groove fairly quickly. Around the 3-4k mark I did notice that was breathing was a little more elevated than normal, but I was still hopeful, but when I hit the 5k at 20:03 I knew the game was nearly over. I tried to push a little but it wasn't really happening now, I continued to try and push myself but when I hit the 8k I knew it was over, but I thought I would continue at my peak (well today's peak) until the finish line. Crossed the finish line and to say the least I was not happy and a few unsavoury words came out, thankfully Ads who also runs with my Club was there and suggested I should go for a cool down straight away and wipe the run out of my head. And in hindsight, a great idea, with 5 minutes or so the conversation was not related to my race and I was enjoying a run with a friend and chatting about anything and everything. We stuck to the HM/Marathon course and provided some encouragement to the front runners of the HM, after 15 min Adam exited right towards home and I continued on past the track for a bit and ran for 35 minutes.
Afterwards I chatted with many and a few with GPS units were thinking the course was about 350m too long, but I was still out of contention, anyway...
My Club did ok on the day, the 4km women's winner, Ashleigh and the men's 10k winner, Luke, as well Adrian ran 38 something for 10 and my own efforts of very high 41s.
The sad & sorry splits are here:
3:45
3:54
3:59
4:07
4:16 (***)
4:10
4:12
4:14
4:47 (***)
4:28
Total: 41:58
I felt that both of these were out, esp the 8-9k, this was noticed by many, even the winner of the 4k questioned that km, strangely she ran faster at MDC which had Anderson St....
Hindsight is a marvelous thing and if I could do it all over again, I would not have entered the race and I would have waited for another appropriate race, but many have said to me it will make my victory when IT DOES happen even sweeter.
Edit:The full results are posted now. I finished 22nd overall and 13th in my category. As I said above, my Club had 2 guys who finished well, 1st and 6th in the Men's 10km, well done guys.
A freaky dream last night woke me about 3ish in tears, but excluding that I had one of those BIG sleeps that I don't have often, in bed 10:15pm and asleep quickly and woke at 5:30am (before alarm). Had breaky (porridge) and then showered and got ready for what I was hoping to be a great run. The weather was very fine, according to Foxtel it was 8 degrees in Hoppers at 6am and the wind was 4kts, very pleasant morning! Luke (one of Cam's mates) arrived at 6:30ish and we chatted until I was ready to go, he was following me. Luke runs with Western A's but due to his apprenticeship he is having trouble racing on Saturdays, so a Sunday race works well for him whilst he is preparing himself for the State X-C Champs on 22 Jul at Jells Park.
Caught up with Beki, Chris & Em whilst waiting for Luke to pick up his number and then took off for a cruisie 15 min warm up along the waters edge on the HM/Marathon course. Changed into race gear, singlet, shorts and flats and then made our way to the front of the pack to do a few strides and plonk ourselves on the front line.
Normal Sri Chinmoy pre race talk and minute silence for health and peace. This year every race was starting together, 4k, 10k, HM & marathon as well as walks, whilst this worked ok for me, I am sure it was a little more congested at the back of the pack.
Even though I have had a few hectic weeks, resulting in an operation, which got infected, vomiting and losing appetite for a few days, falling over and knocking myself out and have an ordinary training week, I was (for some reason) still confident I could manage a sub 40 min performance!!! WTF/OMG what was I thinking.
Started off fairly aggressive (I know, what's different to other times), and thought I settle into my groove fairly quickly. Around the 3-4k mark I did notice that was breathing was a little more elevated than normal, but I was still hopeful, but when I hit the 5k at 20:03 I knew the game was nearly over. I tried to push a little but it wasn't really happening now, I continued to try and push myself but when I hit the 8k I knew it was over, but I thought I would continue at my peak (well today's peak) until the finish line. Crossed the finish line and to say the least I was not happy and a few unsavoury words came out, thankfully Ads who also runs with my Club was there and suggested I should go for a cool down straight away and wipe the run out of my head. And in hindsight, a great idea, with 5 minutes or so the conversation was not related to my race and I was enjoying a run with a friend and chatting about anything and everything. We stuck to the HM/Marathon course and provided some encouragement to the front runners of the HM, after 15 min Adam exited right towards home and I continued on past the track for a bit and ran for 35 minutes.
Afterwards I chatted with many and a few with GPS units were thinking the course was about 350m too long, but I was still out of contention, anyway...
My Club did ok on the day, the 4km women's winner, Ashleigh and the men's 10k winner, Luke, as well Adrian ran 38 something for 10 and my own efforts of very high 41s.
The sad & sorry splits are here:
3:45
3:54
3:59
4:07
4:16 (***)
4:10
4:12
4:14
4:47 (***)
4:28
Total: 41:58
I felt that both of these were out, esp the 8-9k, this was noticed by many, even the winner of the 4k questioned that km, strangely she ran faster at MDC which had Anderson St....
Hindsight is a marvelous thing and if I could do it all over again, I would not have entered the race and I would have waited for another appropriate race, but many have said to me it will make my victory when IT DOES happen even sweeter.
Edit:The full results are posted now. I finished 22nd overall and 13th in my category. As I said above, my Club had 2 guys who finished well, 1st and 6th in the Men's 10km, well done guys.
Friday, 26 May 2006
Fri 26 May 06, city run
10km today and 53km for the week so far, 15/26 runs this month
Arrived at the Tan at 06:50am and jogged into Niketown to catch up with Clarkey and one other, from there we ran along the Yara and then did a lap of the Tan. From there we separated, Clarkey & Co returning back to the city and I continued on to do another lap of the Tan and then ran past my car until hitting 10km according to my Garmin, 46m 30s.
A cool morning, wore Skins top and climax T, cap and tights, was comfortable and managed to work up a nice sweat. Enjoyable run, chatting the entire way when with Clarkey who enjoyed his first run after a successful GOR marathon (3:13).
No running tomorrow, so a small week, which will probably be similar next week to leading into the Frankston 16km XC.
Arrived at the Tan at 06:50am and jogged into Niketown to catch up with Clarkey and one other, from there we ran along the Yara and then did a lap of the Tan. From there we separated, Clarkey & Co returning back to the city and I continued on to do another lap of the Tan and then ran past my car until hitting 10km according to my Garmin, 46m 30s.
A cool morning, wore Skins top and climax T, cap and tights, was comfortable and managed to work up a nice sweat. Enjoyable run, chatting the entire way when with Clarkey who enjoyed his first run after a successful GOR marathon (3:13).
No running tomorrow, so a small week, which will probably be similar next week to leading into the Frankston 16km XC.
Thursday, 25 May 2006
Thu 25 May 06, track session 6 x 400m
7.5km today and 43km for the week so far, 14/25 runs this month
A visit to the dentist today, a filling and then sorted some other pers bits & pieces. Arrived at the track at 5pm to do a track session with Dave, we started with a 15+min warm up, predominantly on grass. Changed into my flats and did 5x70m strides. Tonight I wore tights and T to stay warm during the recovery parts.
Tonight's session for all of the distance crew was 6x400m, the only difference was speed and the recovery time. For me and Dave, 78 sec, with a 200m walk/run, 2 minutes as we are both just returning to the track.
Splits (recover):
77 sec (2:03)
77 sec (2:01)
78 sec (2:00)
77 sec (2:00)
79 sec (2:01)
73 sec (a good 400m walk)
Funnyily the second last rep was hopefully going to be a 76 but it went the other way and the final was hopefully going to be 75-76... Was happy with tonights session, finished off with a nice cool down on the inside on the track on the grass.
Tomorrow I plan on meeting Clarkey in the city at 7am for an easy 45-50 min run, Sat is off with 2 of my boys visiting and then race on Sunday, yes race!
A visit to the dentist today, a filling and then sorted some other pers bits & pieces. Arrived at the track at 5pm to do a track session with Dave, we started with a 15+min warm up, predominantly on grass. Changed into my flats and did 5x70m strides. Tonight I wore tights and T to stay warm during the recovery parts.
Tonight's session for all of the distance crew was 6x400m, the only difference was speed and the recovery time. For me and Dave, 78 sec, with a 200m walk/run, 2 minutes as we are both just returning to the track.
Splits (recover):
77 sec (2:03)
77 sec (2:01)
78 sec (2:00)
77 sec (2:00)
79 sec (2:01)
73 sec (a good 400m walk)
Funnyily the second last rep was hopefully going to be a 76 but it went the other way and the final was hopefully going to be 75-76... Was happy with tonights session, finished off with a nice cool down on the inside on the track on the grass.
Tomorrow I plan on meeting Clarkey in the city at 7am for an easy 45-50 min run, Sat is off with 2 of my boys visiting and then race on Sunday, yes race!
Wednesday, 24 May 2006
Wed 24 May 06, 70 min run in Hoppers
14km today and 35km for the week so far, 13/24 runs this month
I have today off from work to fit in a few medical appointments throughout the day and I thought I would enjoy a run in the warmest part of an autumn day here in Melbourne, so I left home 10:30ish. I decided I would wear my Garmin for a measurement and run parts of one of my normal local runs and then add onto it. I ran for 70 minutes and did just over 14.1km.
A strange run, I felt rather tired throughout and with my mind wondering I wouldn't rate it as one of my best runs. Legs and body overall felt average and my pace was not where I wanted it. But the tick in the box for the run and I know it will benefit my running in the coming months. Re the race this weekend, I am starting to think I may be a week or so away from being ready to race properly, with last nights session and a tired run today, I am not expecting an ideal race...but hopefully I am wrong.
A personal note; I was kindly reminded last night that many people have the same issue as me and they can get on with it... well maybe they want to!
I have today off from work to fit in a few medical appointments throughout the day and I thought I would enjoy a run in the warmest part of an autumn day here in Melbourne, so I left home 10:30ish. I decided I would wear my Garmin for a measurement and run parts of one of my normal local runs and then add onto it. I ran for 70 minutes and did just over 14.1km.
A strange run, I felt rather tired throughout and with my mind wondering I wouldn't rate it as one of my best runs. Legs and body overall felt average and my pace was not where I wanted it. But the tick in the box for the run and I know it will benefit my running in the coming months. Re the race this weekend, I am starting to think I may be a week or so away from being ready to race properly, with last nights session and a tired run today, I am not expecting an ideal race...but hopefully I am wrong.
A personal note; I was kindly reminded last night that many people have the same issue as me and they can get on with it... well maybe they want to!
Tuesday, 23 May 2006
Tue 23 May 06, return to the track
9km today and 21km for the week so far, 12/23 runs this month
Arrived at the track after 5pm and changed and got straight into my warm up, tonight I dressed for the cool, skins top and nike tights and t shirt, but started w/up with track suit top and bottom as well. I started with a 12 min run around on the grass and the surrounds of the VU Complex, then finishing off with 2 laps of the track and a third with drills, all up 18 minutes. Stretched and then did 5x70m strides, maybe a tad faster than required, but it felt good.
Plan tonight was for 6x1000m @ 3:45-50, but it didn't go to plan, maybe too much after 6 weeks away from track or maybe too much after being unwell for 2 weeks, not really sure which one, but it didn't happen...
Started off well, hit the first 200 right on 45 sec, which is what I wanted, even got the first km where I wanted, even the second was pretty good, but then it was down hill and it got harder, but I think I did the right thing in pulling out after 4 reps.
Splits (recovery):
3:46 (1:58)
3:50 (1:58)
3:51 (2:01)
3:54 (five lap cool down)
The final rep was harder than it should have been and I knew it, so Idecided enough was enough. After my cool down I sat around and stretched for 15 minutes and off home.
Arrived at the track after 5pm and changed and got straight into my warm up, tonight I dressed for the cool, skins top and nike tights and t shirt, but started w/up with track suit top and bottom as well. I started with a 12 min run around on the grass and the surrounds of the VU Complex, then finishing off with 2 laps of the track and a third with drills, all up 18 minutes. Stretched and then did 5x70m strides, maybe a tad faster than required, but it felt good.
Plan tonight was for 6x1000m @ 3:45-50, but it didn't go to plan, maybe too much after 6 weeks away from track or maybe too much after being unwell for 2 weeks, not really sure which one, but it didn't happen...
Started off well, hit the first 200 right on 45 sec, which is what I wanted, even got the first km where I wanted, even the second was pretty good, but then it was down hill and it got harder, but I think I did the right thing in pulling out after 4 reps.
Splits (recovery):
3:46 (1:58)
3:50 (1:58)
3:51 (2:01)
3:54 (five lap cool down)
The final rep was harder than it should have been and I knew it, so Idecided enough was enough. After my cool down I sat around and stretched for 15 minutes and off home.
Monday, 22 May 2006
Mon 22 May 06, a rest day (just in case)
0km today and 12km for the week so far, 11/22 runs this month
Tonight I decided to be cautious, with 9/10 days of and then a 90 min run followed by 50 minutes I decided with racing this weekend and my enforced rest I would take it easy and not run.
First day back at work, started at 8am and let me tell you, by 2.30pm I was ready to go home, tired and having trouble concentrating, but I stayed until 4:15pm and managed a full day, mainly made up of clearing 369 emails....
Tomorrow my first track session since the Aust Master Champs (Easter), some 1k reps will be on the cards in preparation for Sunday's race.
Tonight I decided to be cautious, with 9/10 days of and then a 90 min run followed by 50 minutes I decided with racing this weekend and my enforced rest I would take it easy and not run.
First day back at work, started at 8am and let me tell you, by 2.30pm I was ready to go home, tired and having trouble concentrating, but I stayed until 4:15pm and managed a full day, mainly made up of clearing 369 emails....
Tomorrow my first track session since the Aust Master Champs (Easter), some 1k reps will be on the cards in preparation for Sunday's race.
Sunday, 21 May 2006
Sun 21 May 06, Werribee River run
12km today and for the week so far, 11/21 runs this month
After a late night of chatting on MSN and then a late night phone to mend some bridges I woke nice and late and did not venture out of bed until after 9am. From here I decided I was going to enjoy another run today so I sent a text to many of the guys and some of the girls to try and organise a group run from the Riverbend car park in the mid arvo.
Many working and a couple had already run, and a couple are overseas (UK & Bali) I could only manage myself, Luke (19) & Chris (18). Which was great, I wanted to chat to Chris and convince him that he needed to rejoin the club and help strengthen the men's teams, which appears to have worked, this has been an ongoing project.
So we took off from the car park at 4pm and made our way into Werribee along the river and up and down the hills into Pres Park for some fun, once into Wyndham Park we went up onto a road and ran towards Geelong until we got to 27 min, then turned and came home slightly harder, all up a mid 52 min run.
Running with the boys is a great way to ensure a solid run, but thankfully Chris has been a bit slack with his training so they weren't too hard on me ;-)
After a late night of chatting on MSN and then a late night phone to mend some bridges I woke nice and late and did not venture out of bed until after 9am. From here I decided I was going to enjoy another run today so I sent a text to many of the guys and some of the girls to try and organise a group run from the Riverbend car park in the mid arvo.
Many working and a couple had already run, and a couple are overseas (UK & Bali) I could only manage myself, Luke (19) & Chris (18). Which was great, I wanted to chat to Chris and convince him that he needed to rejoin the club and help strengthen the men's teams, which appears to have worked, this has been an ongoing project.
So we took off from the car park at 4pm and made our way into Werribee along the river and up and down the hills into Pres Park for some fun, once into Wyndham Park we went up onto a road and ran towards Geelong until we got to 27 min, then turned and came home slightly harder, all up a mid 52 min run.
Running with the boys is a great way to ensure a solid run, but thankfully Chris has been a bit slack with his training so they weren't too hard on me ;-)
Saturday, 20 May 2006
Sat 20 May 06, finally.... a run!
17km today and for the week so far, 10/20 runs this month
Nine days a go I ran and this morning when I woke I knew I was going to put some k's in this weeks log, phew. Started the day out and about, kids XC, kids soccer and then dropped them off & picked up big kid (Cam) and make our way to the Dandenong Ranges to meet a few others from our Club for a 'pack run' at Ferny Creek.
As I have been out to Ferny Creek more than anyone else that was present I took the lead and showed them the small loop, about 12 min and the we turned and ran back along the route that goes back up to Tourist Rd and made our way back in to the forest, here we started to break into two groups, I back tracked looking for Bel but she cut through onto another track, which ended up being the one I did too and ended up me, Adam & Bel all enjoying each others company for 30 min or so when Bel decided that 60 min would be enough today. Then myself and Ads continued on and went investigating, past the falls, along a laneway past some houses and we found a 'goat track' that went down, down and down, we knew if we couldn't work out where we were when we got to the bottom we only had two choices, get lost or turn around and go back up!!!
At the bottom of the deep gully over a little bridge, now running (finally, the down was too steep) and up a little hill I discovered a little cafe where Tim Crosbie's squad regroup and work the S Bends, excellent, I will introduce the much faster than me Ads to the S Bends (well it sounded like a good idea), up we went, past the home car park for a few minutes and then crossed the road and returned to the car park in 92 minutes.
I was so happy to be running and chatting (except up the S Bends), and I felt great, a change of clothes with Skins on and I felt very satisified. Chatted and then returned home. It is now four hours later and I feel great and looking forward to a casual run tomorrow.
:-)
Nine days a go I ran and this morning when I woke I knew I was going to put some k's in this weeks log, phew. Started the day out and about, kids XC, kids soccer and then dropped them off & picked up big kid (Cam) and make our way to the Dandenong Ranges to meet a few others from our Club for a 'pack run' at Ferny Creek.
As I have been out to Ferny Creek more than anyone else that was present I took the lead and showed them the small loop, about 12 min and the we turned and ran back along the route that goes back up to Tourist Rd and made our way back in to the forest, here we started to break into two groups, I back tracked looking for Bel but she cut through onto another track, which ended up being the one I did too and ended up me, Adam & Bel all enjoying each others company for 30 min or so when Bel decided that 60 min would be enough today. Then myself and Ads continued on and went investigating, past the falls, along a laneway past some houses and we found a 'goat track' that went down, down and down, we knew if we couldn't work out where we were when we got to the bottom we only had two choices, get lost or turn around and go back up!!!
At the bottom of the deep gully over a little bridge, now running (finally, the down was too steep) and up a little hill I discovered a little cafe where Tim Crosbie's squad regroup and work the S Bends, excellent, I will introduce the much faster than me Ads to the S Bends (well it sounded like a good idea), up we went, past the home car park for a few minutes and then crossed the road and returned to the car park in 92 minutes.
I was so happy to be running and chatting (except up the S Bends), and I felt great, a change of clothes with Skins on and I felt very satisified. Chatted and then returned home. It is now four hours later and I feel great and looking forward to a casual run tomorrow.
:-)
Friday, 19 May 2006
Fri 19 May 06, not yet running, but very close
0km today and for the week so far, 9/19 runs this month
Firstly thank you everyone for your best wishes and concern, excluding a little swelling and scar tissue etc I am feeling good health wise and some of my other concerns are starting to settle and I have been able to clear alot of bills after discovering my Leasing Company were taking WAY too much money from me. Now I just need to sort my head and all will be better.
Anyway, tomorrow I'm off, the left foot is going to go in front of the right and then the right in front of the left and running will commence there after. Off to the Ferney creek, Dandenongs with some club mates, I will have to stay back and do it easy but I hope to go well.
Thanks again everyone!!
Stuart
Firstly thank you everyone for your best wishes and concern, excluding a little swelling and scar tissue etc I am feeling good health wise and some of my other concerns are starting to settle and I have been able to clear alot of bills after discovering my Leasing Company were taking WAY too much money from me. Now I just need to sort my head and all will be better.
Anyway, tomorrow I'm off, the left foot is going to go in front of the right and then the right in front of the left and running will commence there after. Off to the Ferney creek, Dandenongs with some club mates, I will have to stay back and do it easy but I hope to go well.
Thanks again everyone!!
Stuart
Wednesday, 17 May 2006
Wed 17 May 06, now was this a running blog or a sickies blog
0km today and for the week so far, 9/17 runs this month
You may ask why is Stu posting this non running crap, well I have wondered too, but as my coach said I need to note things like why I'm not running, it is all relevant to my running wants & desires. So..... here's another shit day to tack onto the others!!!
This morning I woke to find my chest was SO BIG and SO RED it was embarrassing, rang the hospital and they arranged an appt to have my chest drained via an ultra sound at Werribee hospital at 1pm. I was aching everywhere and did not feel very good. Eventually after chatting on MSN for a bit I had a shower and whilst getting out got really dizzy, fell and hit my head on the door and then the floor, I think. I think I may have been laying there for a few minutes, not really sure. After getting dressed and making a few calls to find someone available I finally found someone to take me to the hospital, as I was bleeding, vomiting and not feeling very good.
Anyway a few hours in emergency and then I finally had my chest drain, 85 mils they took out and gave me a bunch of injections. Anyway, I got home about 5ish and now feel ok, sort of.
On the way home I checked in with my GP re my blood tests that I had last Friday, and finally some good news for me in a month I would probably like to forget...he says that all is good and I have no problems what so ever, well that is except my chest and the infection there.
A few hours have passed and I know fluid is building up again, but that was to be expected, a simple procedure is not really proving to be so and is starting to piss me off, I don't really need this, I have enough things to worry about! The only good thing coming from this is my coach is happy that I am having some time off my legs and resting for 7-10 days.
Let me tell all the readers, I would trade a long run for this shit any day!
And please remember I am not looking for sympathy, I just post for the sake of it and a few may understand me a little better, even though I can be a little cryptic at times. ;-)
You may ask why is Stu posting this non running crap, well I have wondered too, but as my coach said I need to note things like why I'm not running, it is all relevant to my running wants & desires. So..... here's another shit day to tack onto the others!!!
This morning I woke to find my chest was SO BIG and SO RED it was embarrassing, rang the hospital and they arranged an appt to have my chest drained via an ultra sound at Werribee hospital at 1pm. I was aching everywhere and did not feel very good. Eventually after chatting on MSN for a bit I had a shower and whilst getting out got really dizzy, fell and hit my head on the door and then the floor, I think. I think I may have been laying there for a few minutes, not really sure. After getting dressed and making a few calls to find someone available I finally found someone to take me to the hospital, as I was bleeding, vomiting and not feeling very good.
Anyway a few hours in emergency and then I finally had my chest drain, 85 mils they took out and gave me a bunch of injections. Anyway, I got home about 5ish and now feel ok, sort of.
On the way home I checked in with my GP re my blood tests that I had last Friday, and finally some good news for me in a month I would probably like to forget...he says that all is good and I have no problems what so ever, well that is except my chest and the infection there.
A few hours have passed and I know fluid is building up again, but that was to be expected, a simple procedure is not really proving to be so and is starting to piss me off, I don't really need this, I have enough things to worry about! The only good thing coming from this is my coach is happy that I am having some time off my legs and resting for 7-10 days.
Let me tell all the readers, I would trade a long run for this shit any day!
And please remember I am not looking for sympathy, I just post for the sake of it and a few may understand me a little better, even though I can be a little cryptic at times. ;-)
Tuesday, 16 May 2006
Tue 16 May 06, another day of NO running
0km today and for the week so far, 9/16 runs this month
Yes at the MDC I spent a little bit of time complaining about my world, thanks ladies for the reminder....but to be honest not many things are not good a the moment. Last night was not pleasant, feeling very unwell and ending up waking 3am in a cold sweat and bowing to the porcelain bowl, this experience was ongoing most of the morning.
Got into to see my doc at 10am with a very swollen chest (probably double the size it was on Sunday) and now very red. Spent the majority of the day in hospital on antibiotics via a drip, after much complaining they let me out at 5pm, but back to the Dr tmw, if no improvement I will be back to the hospital. No work for the entire week, resting up.
Which in turn means no running...which means a stressed Stu because he cannot run his problems into the ground. :-(
Yes at the MDC I spent a little bit of time complaining about my world, thanks ladies for the reminder....but to be honest not many things are not good a the moment. Last night was not pleasant, feeling very unwell and ending up waking 3am in a cold sweat and bowing to the porcelain bowl, this experience was ongoing most of the morning.
Got into to see my doc at 10am with a very swollen chest (probably double the size it was on Sunday) and now very red. Spent the majority of the day in hospital on antibiotics via a drip, after much complaining they let me out at 5pm, but back to the Dr tmw, if no improvement I will be back to the hospital. No work for the entire week, resting up.
Which in turn means no running...which means a stressed Stu because he cannot run his problems into the ground. :-(
Monday, 15 May 2006
Monday 15 May 06, still not running
0km today and for the week so far, 9/15 runs this month
Lets see, Operation on Thursday, attempted to have the drain & hose removed on Friday, the nurse and Dr decided still draining to qquickly so it will remain for another day. Inconvience, but I did Little A's XC then soccer for 45 minutes, handed over to Julie (mum) and then I picked up Cam and went to hospital. Drained removed, change of dressing and got to see the hole and stitches. Made my way out to Sandown, sadly as a spectator. Of course once arriving I decided as I wasn't running I would act as Team Manager and ensure all of the runners knew where they were going and when, handing out the AV booklets and tags.
Some great times from the guys and gals at Western A's, loads of PBs and some very good times. The end of the day I started to get a little frustrated, perfect conditions and many fast times, especially 2 guys I beat at GTR ran high 38s and low 39s, that could have been me!!! I suspect!!
Without the drain I have noticed that my chest is now very swollen and sore and as I type (8:30pm) I know I cannot yet run, it was sore just jogging to my letter box.
Sunday, I went to the Mother's Day Classic around the Tan and took Cam so he could support his girlfriend and so I could support the girls from the RW/S2F forum and Clare from my aths club was running too (from her sick bed, "rolling eyes"). This pic was the start of the 4k race which Clare, Karina, Crissy, Ruth (Cam's gf mum), Charlene (Cam's gf) & Margaret (a mum from the Club). In the 8k was Em, Michelle, Jay, Beki, who all ran well, ROTD was Emma, she blitzed the course and is looking very good to be running a fast 10km at Sri Chinmoy at the end of the month, I have predicted; 47:45... good luck Em...
With a sore chest and some other probs I really wish I could go for a long run and let the world's troubles disappear of a bush trail somewhere, but I can't.... and happily I haven't turned to any drinks to let that wipe the worries away, still drinking water and just complaining...and of course my mind is away with the fairies.
Lets see, Operation on Thursday, attempted to have the drain & hose removed on Friday, the nurse and Dr decided still draining to qquickly so it will remain for another day. Inconvience, but I did Little A's XC then soccer for 45 minutes, handed over to Julie (mum) and then I picked up Cam and went to hospital. Drained removed, change of dressing and got to see the hole and stitches. Made my way out to Sandown, sadly as a spectator. Of course once arriving I decided as I wasn't running I would act as Team Manager and ensure all of the runners knew where they were going and when, handing out the AV booklets and tags.
Some great times from the guys and gals at Western A's, loads of PBs and some very good times. The end of the day I started to get a little frustrated, perfect conditions and many fast times, especially 2 guys I beat at GTR ran high 38s and low 39s, that could have been me!!! I suspect!!
Without the drain I have noticed that my chest is now very swollen and sore and as I type (8:30pm) I know I cannot yet run, it was sore just jogging to my letter box.
Sunday, I went to the Mother's Day Classic around the Tan and took Cam so he could support his girlfriend and so I could support the girls from the RW/S2F forum and Clare from my aths club was running too (from her sick bed, "rolling eyes"). This pic was the start of the 4k race which Clare, Karina, Crissy, Ruth (Cam's gf mum), Charlene (Cam's gf) & Margaret (a mum from the Club). In the 8k was Em, Michelle, Jay, Beki, who all ran well, ROTD was Emma, she blitzed the course and is looking very good to be running a fast 10km at Sri Chinmoy at the end of the month, I have predicted; 47:45... good luck Em...
With a sore chest and some other probs I really wish I could go for a long run and let the world's troubles disappear of a bush trail somewhere, but I can't.... and happily I haven't turned to any drinks to let that wipe the worries away, still drinking water and just complaining...and of course my mind is away with the fairies.
Thursday, 11 May 2006
My operation was a success
Thanks everyone for your best wishes. I entered the operating room at 2:30 and was allowed home 6ish. All went well and the offending lump has been removed, along with some fatty tissue that was alongside, my only complaint is he wouldn't take any fat from the other side.... :-)
I have a little hose and a little enclosed bucket collecting drainage which will be removed tomorrow. Of course common sense will prevail and I will be a spectator at the Vic 10k Road Championships supporting my club and friends in other clubs.
Again, thank you everyone!
Regards
Stu
Stuarts Running Blog
(s20StuMac)
-- Site Summary ---
Visits
Total ....................... 10,283
Average per Day ................. 37
Average Visit Length .......... 2:21
This Week ...................... 257
Page Views
Total ....................... 19,670
Average per Day ................. 71
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I have a little hose and a little enclosed bucket collecting drainage which will be removed tomorrow. Of course common sense will prevail and I will be a spectator at the Vic 10k Road Championships supporting my club and friends in other clubs.
Again, thank you everyone!
Regards
Stu
Stuarts Running Blog
(s20StuMac)
-- Site Summary ---
Visits
Total ....................... 10,283
Average per Day ................. 37
Average Visit Length .......... 2:21
This Week ...................... 257
Page Views
Total ....................... 19,670
Average per Day ................. 71
Average per Visit .............. 1.9
This Week ...................... 496
Thu 11 May 06, one of my sister's birthday
11km today and 49km for the week so far, 9/11 runs this month
Today's run was like the times of old, the days when I needed to squeeze my runs in with as little annoyance to my family. I was out the door at 5:45am, cold and dark. Wearing a dri fit T & my new Skins top underneath with a cap and shorts I could feel the morning air, but not at all on my chest, this Skins top is VERY good.
A casual run with a pick up off the pace in the middle section and the rest was failry cruisy to slightly fast. Today's run was early to fit into not being able to drink after 7am in prep for my arvo appt. I would have much preferred to run later but I know I need to rehydrate after a run.
Today's run was like the times of old, the days when I needed to squeeze my runs in with as little annoyance to my family. I was out the door at 5:45am, cold and dark. Wearing a dri fit T & my new Skins top underneath with a cap and shorts I could feel the morning air, but not at all on my chest, this Skins top is VERY good.
A casual run with a pick up off the pace in the middle section and the rest was failry cruisy to slightly fast. Today's run was early to fit into not being able to drink after 7am in prep for my arvo appt. I would have much preferred to run later but I know I need to rehydrate after a run.
Wednesday, 10 May 2006
Wed 10 May 06, S2F Run to the G training run
8km today and 38km for the week so far, 8/10 runs this month
A longish day at the office, arrived 07:10am and left 5:30pm, I needed to clear as much work as possible with the knowledge I will be away from the office for a few days recovering after tomorrow's surgery.
Ran to my car on the Tan and dropped my bag and then made my way to Fed Square for tonight's training run, 5km medium group. I picked up my Skins top this evening and I thought with the cooler weather I would chuck it on underneath my training T and what a great idea that was, but if you are wondering what size to buy, be ready to go up a size. All of my singlets & T's these days are medium, but I was suggested to get a large and thankfully I did, a very fitted top, but an excellent assessory to my running wardrobe.
Tonight's run was an easy pace for me, but another great evening with a few guys and girls coming back for more and I am really enjoying passing on the knowledge I have acquired over the past few years.
Tomorrow off to Western Private, must arrive at 12pm and the op is scheduled for mid arfternoon to early evening. I wish it could have been next week, allowing me to have a good go at the Sandown Race and beat that bloody sub 40 min, but alas I have already put the op off once, so be it. I'll now target a Sri Chinmoy race at Williamstown.
A longish day at the office, arrived 07:10am and left 5:30pm, I needed to clear as much work as possible with the knowledge I will be away from the office for a few days recovering after tomorrow's surgery.
Ran to my car on the Tan and dropped my bag and then made my way to Fed Square for tonight's training run, 5km medium group. I picked up my Skins top this evening and I thought with the cooler weather I would chuck it on underneath my training T and what a great idea that was, but if you are wondering what size to buy, be ready to go up a size. All of my singlets & T's these days are medium, but I was suggested to get a large and thankfully I did, a very fitted top, but an excellent assessory to my running wardrobe.
Tonight's run was an easy pace for me, but another great evening with a few guys and girls coming back for more and I am really enjoying passing on the knowledge I have acquired over the past few years.
Tomorrow off to Western Private, must arrive at 12pm and the op is scheduled for mid arfternoon to early evening. I wish it could have been next week, allowing me to have a good go at the Sandown Race and beat that bloody sub 40 min, but alas I have already put the op off once, so be it. I'll now target a Sri Chinmoy race at Williamstown.
Tuesday, 9 May 2006
Tue 09 May 06, an easy local run
6km today and 30km for the week so far, 7/9 runs this month
A short entry today, like my run. My quads still have a little soreness in them from Sunday's Puffing Billy race and I was a little tired so a short run was on order. Just over 6km, cool with a strong breeze.
Last night I volunteered and remained on the Committee for the Werribee Little Athletic Centre and will be the U6 On Track Leader for another season, a role I have really involved over the past 2 seasons and this season Declan will be turning 5 and is looking forward to showing dad how fast he can run.
A short entry today, like my run. My quads still have a little soreness in them from Sunday's Puffing Billy race and I was a little tired so a short run was on order. Just over 6km, cool with a strong breeze.
Last night I volunteered and remained on the Committee for the Werribee Little Athletic Centre and will be the U6 On Track Leader for another season, a role I have really involved over the past 2 seasons and this season Declan will be turning 5 and is looking forward to showing dad how fast he can run.
Monday, 8 May 2006
Mon 08 May 06, recovery run
8km today and 24km for the week so far, 6/8 runs this month
I needed to make my way to the AV office at lunch today so I included a casual run at lunch to get the legs rolling over and run some of the soreness out of my quads.
With my Garmin on, I ran to Flinders St and made my way down to the Yarra sitting on 4:45 pace until I got to Olympic Park and dropped off some money there. Then over and around the G at 4:40 pace and back to Goschs Paddock and up to the Tan and moved up Anderson St on 4:30 pace. Around the tan sitting 4:25-30 and continued on until past Govt Dve, then I moved onto St Kilda Rd until I made up 8k, then lunch and shower, back to work.
Short & sweet, depending I may run a few more k's this evening and I may not too.
I needed to make my way to the AV office at lunch today so I included a casual run at lunch to get the legs rolling over and run some of the soreness out of my quads.
With my Garmin on, I ran to Flinders St and made my way down to the Yarra sitting on 4:45 pace until I got to Olympic Park and dropped off some money there. Then over and around the G at 4:40 pace and back to Goschs Paddock and up to the Tan and moved up Anderson St on 4:30 pace. Around the tan sitting 4:25-30 and continued on until past Govt Dve, then I moved onto St Kilda Rd until I made up 8k, then lunch and shower, back to work.
Short & sweet, depending I may run a few more k's this evening and I may not too.
Sunday, 7 May 2006
Sun 07 May 06, Puffing Billy (GTR)
16km today and for the week so far, 5/7 runs this month
Left home just after 7am and it was cold, very wet and windy, not great weather for racing...but hopefully the train would be slowed a little, but I was confident that I could run about 56 minutes and that would be fast enough if the train ran the time it has in the previous 10 years. With the race starting at the late time of 9:30 I knew I was going to arrive nice and early, but with parking and a long drive being taken into consideration early was better than late.
I arrived and parked in the Connex car park and phoned some friends to ascertain what coffee shop they were in and met up with Beki, TigerBoy, Jaykay & Stormbikes. Ventured outside about 08:45 and started my warm up, then 9ish I had to brave the weather and get into my race singlet and shorts as I needed to drop my bag in the clothes truck. So here I was 30 minutes prior to the race in the pouring rain in a singlet and shorts, I think maybe runners are a little strange....
9:15 the road was closed and we were able to take up our positions on the start line, I was happy where I managed to get, probably 5or6 back fro the line, but was to discover there are still a lot of 'stupid' people who start way to far up the front!!! The rain stopped but then re-started minutes before the start and remained hard for the next 20-30 minutes. I was happy with my start, a good controlled pace down the hill and with no real problems passing hundreds of slower runners in the first km or so. Under the famous trestle bridge and made the first crossing for the first time without seeing the train. I always knew the hills would be a problem, but not as much as previous years. Whilst I am stronger now than 3 years ago, I knew with my concentration of track racing I didn't have many hill kms in the legs, so the hills we still hard work but I managed to move past some whilst going upwards. At the 5k mark I could seeGeorge just in front of me from the Nike Training Group who I knew was 2 min faster than me at R4K so I was a little worried I may have gone too fast, but I continued on. Between 6&7 km TB past me up one of the hills and moved away at a nice pace, whilst always keeping in sight I only moved closer on the downs. The next major crossing I made and only about 10 or so others behind me before the road was closed, so I was now very confident that I had made it as the unwritten rule is if you are in front her you are fine, but it was not to be...
Once the last hill was done I flew, the final kms on the muddy tracks were fine, I passed a lot of people, I got TB just before the 12km mark and moved on, I also passed George just after the 12k and tried to encourage him on, I crossed the finish line in 55 min 23 sec, but sadly the train finished in the fastest time in the final 10 years, 54 min 58 sec.
Splits: With hills throwing times around and a short 11-12k.
4k: 16:16
5k: 20:14 (3:57)
6k: 24:56 (4:41)
7k: 30:26 (5:30)
8k: 34:12 (3:46)
9k: 38:48 (4:36)
10k: 43:38 (4:50)
11k: 47:47 (4:08)
12k: 51:00 (3:12)
13.2k: 55:23
There were problems with buses afterwards and very slow train timetables, but overall still a pleasant day and race. I took off over 6-7 minutes from my time 3 years and surprisingly I thought I would have been more upset by not beating it, but the train is advertised as being able to go 53 minutes, so I will be happy with my 55 min something and live with it. There are bigger problems in life!
The pic was acquired from Beki's blog, I'm not sure where she got it from as I know she wasn't running with a camera, but it does show the Trestle Bridge which is one of the major landmarks of the course.
Left home just after 7am and it was cold, very wet and windy, not great weather for racing...but hopefully the train would be slowed a little, but I was confident that I could run about 56 minutes and that would be fast enough if the train ran the time it has in the previous 10 years. With the race starting at the late time of 9:30 I knew I was going to arrive nice and early, but with parking and a long drive being taken into consideration early was better than late.
I arrived and parked in the Connex car park and phoned some friends to ascertain what coffee shop they were in and met up with Beki, TigerBoy, Jaykay & Stormbikes. Ventured outside about 08:45 and started my warm up, then 9ish I had to brave the weather and get into my race singlet and shorts as I needed to drop my bag in the clothes truck. So here I was 30 minutes prior to the race in the pouring rain in a singlet and shorts, I think maybe runners are a little strange....
9:15 the road was closed and we were able to take up our positions on the start line, I was happy where I managed to get, probably 5or6 back fro the line, but was to discover there are still a lot of 'stupid' people who start way to far up the front!!! The rain stopped but then re-started minutes before the start and remained hard for the next 20-30 minutes. I was happy with my start, a good controlled pace down the hill and with no real problems passing hundreds of slower runners in the first km or so. Under the famous trestle bridge and made the first crossing for the first time without seeing the train. I always knew the hills would be a problem, but not as much as previous years. Whilst I am stronger now than 3 years ago, I knew with my concentration of track racing I didn't have many hill kms in the legs, so the hills we still hard work but I managed to move past some whilst going upwards. At the 5k mark I could seeGeorge just in front of me from the Nike Training Group who I knew was 2 min faster than me at R4K so I was a little worried I may have gone too fast, but I continued on. Between 6&7 km TB past me up one of the hills and moved away at a nice pace, whilst always keeping in sight I only moved closer on the downs. The next major crossing I made and only about 10 or so others behind me before the road was closed, so I was now very confident that I had made it as the unwritten rule is if you are in front her you are fine, but it was not to be...
Once the last hill was done I flew, the final kms on the muddy tracks were fine, I passed a lot of people, I got TB just before the 12km mark and moved on, I also passed George just after the 12k and tried to encourage him on, I crossed the finish line in 55 min 23 sec, but sadly the train finished in the fastest time in the final 10 years, 54 min 58 sec.
Splits: With hills throwing times around and a short 11-12k.
4k: 16:16
5k: 20:14 (3:57)
6k: 24:56 (4:41)
7k: 30:26 (5:30)
8k: 34:12 (3:46)
9k: 38:48 (4:36)
10k: 43:38 (4:50)
11k: 47:47 (4:08)
12k: 51:00 (3:12)
13.2k: 55:23
There were problems with buses afterwards and very slow train timetables, but overall still a pleasant day and race. I took off over 6-7 minutes from my time 3 years and surprisingly I thought I would have been more upset by not beating it, but the train is advertised as being able to go 53 minutes, so I will be happy with my 55 min something and live with it. There are bigger problems in life!
The pic was acquired from Beki's blog, I'm not sure where she got it from as I know she wasn't running with a camera, but it does show the Trestle Bridge which is one of the major landmarks of the course.
Friday, 5 May 2006
Fri 05 May 06, rest day
0km today and 55km for the week so far, 4/5 runs this month
I kind of thought of a 30 minute roll along the Yarra but was very busy at work and I am trailing a 2 day rest before the GTR, I so hope my legs are bursting with energy on Sunday. Today I was very busy at work, arrived 07:40 & left at 5:15pm and worked solid all day, which was good, allowed me to be distracted from a few shitty life things.
Anyway, excluding wanting to note a 2 day resting period I also wanted to mention that I am a dickhead when it comes to electrical & elctronic things... I posted a few weeks ago about my Garmin and the recharger that I thought I couldn't use, well........I noticed that it had 240v on the bottom but it also had a guage on the side, so I asked a friend who is a little smarter with electrics than me, and yes I know, everyone is laughing at the moment, set it to 5 Stu and charge your Garmin. Duh!
So the Garmin is charging its little life a way and I will be lending it to one of the runners tomorrow so we can get the elevation of the Woodlands Reserve (Gellibrand Hill).
Rightio stop laughing everyone and get back to your training!
I kind of thought of a 30 minute roll along the Yarra but was very busy at work and I am trailing a 2 day rest before the GTR, I so hope my legs are bursting with energy on Sunday. Today I was very busy at work, arrived 07:40 & left at 5:15pm and worked solid all day, which was good, allowed me to be distracted from a few shitty life things.
Anyway, excluding wanting to note a 2 day resting period I also wanted to mention that I am a dickhead when it comes to electrical & elctronic things... I posted a few weeks ago about my Garmin and the recharger that I thought I couldn't use, well........I noticed that it had 240v on the bottom but it also had a guage on the side, so I asked a friend who is a little smarter with electrics than me, and yes I know, everyone is laughing at the moment, set it to 5 Stu and charge your Garmin. Duh!
So the Garmin is charging its little life a way and I will be lending it to one of the runners tomorrow so we can get the elevation of the Woodlands Reserve (Gellibrand Hill).
Rightio stop laughing everyone and get back to your training!
Thursday, 4 May 2006
Thu 04 May 06, the Tan @ lunchtime
8km today and 55km for the week so far, 4/4 runs this month
Ran today at luchtime, 2 laps of the Tan, my boss actually suggested I needed to get out of the office, he suggested I looked drained, angry and in need of a break, I suggested home, he suggested run and then get back into it.
2 laps, 18:30 & 18 flat.
I was suppose to run tonight with Louise from my club, but she cancelled, she had a hairdressers appointment, ""rolling eyes"" :-)
Ran today at luchtime, 2 laps of the Tan, my boss actually suggested I needed to get out of the office, he suggested I looked drained, angry and in need of a break, I suggested home, he suggested run and then get back into it.
2 laps, 18:30 & 18 flat.
I was suppose to run tonight with Louise from my club, but she cancelled, she had a hairdressers appointment, ""rolling eyes"" :-)
Wednesday, 3 May 2006
Wed 03 May 06, S2F Training Group, medium 5k
8km today and 47km for the week so far, 3/3 runs this month
Parked on the Tan near Govt Dve and jogged into to Fed Square and checked in at the Atrium, I had been allocated the medium paced 5k group, which has become a bit of the norm, so of course you start to know some of the participants quite well, enjoy seeing their improvements and of course chatting with the first timers. Tonight I had 11 in the group, for the first time I had 3 guys, one dropping back in prep for the GTR and the 2 others were first timers to the pace and training groups.
The normal course, down Wellington Pde, around Fitzroy Gardens, in the MCG precinct, over the new footbridge and back via Fed Square. A pleasant run, the city looks good at night, the G looks magnificant and back into Fed Square is good at night too, always very busy. Every week I teel my groups that when they get back to Fed Sq they need to concentrate on looking good, making all of the lazy people jealous at how good we look... :-)
After the run (I think is 5.5k) I got the group to stretch and chatted with a few in particular as they had some further questions, then I ran back to the Tan. All up a nice relaxing run. Tomorrow's run will be at the You Yangs around the exterior on one of the horse trails with one of the girls from my aths club who is looking for a consistent paced 40 minute run, which will suit me as she is slightly slower than me, but it will ensure I do not get carried away, so close to Puffing Billy race which I hope I can beat for my first time.
I haven't run the GTR for 3 years and the last time I struggled on some of the hills, but I am confident I will move up them fairly well, but will give them some respect, but for some reason I think the YY's are harder, as you start at a much lower elevation.... I hope so anyway.
Parked on the Tan near Govt Dve and jogged into to Fed Square and checked in at the Atrium, I had been allocated the medium paced 5k group, which has become a bit of the norm, so of course you start to know some of the participants quite well, enjoy seeing their improvements and of course chatting with the first timers. Tonight I had 11 in the group, for the first time I had 3 guys, one dropping back in prep for the GTR and the 2 others were first timers to the pace and training groups.
The normal course, down Wellington Pde, around Fitzroy Gardens, in the MCG precinct, over the new footbridge and back via Fed Square. A pleasant run, the city looks good at night, the G looks magnificant and back into Fed Square is good at night too, always very busy. Every week I teel my groups that when they get back to Fed Sq they need to concentrate on looking good, making all of the lazy people jealous at how good we look... :-)
After the run (I think is 5.5k) I got the group to stretch and chatted with a few in particular as they had some further questions, then I ran back to the Tan. All up a nice relaxing run. Tomorrow's run will be at the You Yangs around the exterior on one of the horse trails with one of the girls from my aths club who is looking for a consistent paced 40 minute run, which will suit me as she is slightly slower than me, but it will ensure I do not get carried away, so close to Puffing Billy race which I hope I can beat for my first time.
I haven't run the GTR for 3 years and the last time I struggled on some of the hills, but I am confident I will move up them fairly well, but will give them some respect, but for some reason I think the YY's are harder, as you start at a much lower elevation.... I hope so anyway.
Tuesday, 2 May 2006
Tue 2 May 06, an easy local run in Hoppers
8km today and 39km for the week so far, 2/2 runs this month
Finished work early, had a 'nanna nap' and caught up with some valuable sleep and felt great for it. Caught up with my washing and someother domestics and took off for a very easy paced 8k run from home.
The course is measured by car and normally I run it quite quickly, but today 40:30 sec, very casual. Sat one pace and just left time click over. Stretched for probably 15 minutes with lots of concentration on my hamstrings, glutes and ITB. Did some core work to, finishing off with some of the harder core work from my pilates sessions.
Planned run in the city tmw with the S2F training group (either 5/10km) and an easy run on Thu arvo on the flats around some of the trails at the You Yangs.
Finished work early, had a 'nanna nap' and caught up with some valuable sleep and felt great for it. Caught up with my washing and someother domestics and took off for a very easy paced 8k run from home.
The course is measured by car and normally I run it quite quickly, but today 40:30 sec, very casual. Sat one pace and just left time click over. Stretched for probably 15 minutes with lots of concentration on my hamstrings, glutes and ITB. Did some core work to, finishing off with some of the harder core work from my pilates sessions.
Planned run in the city tmw with the S2F training group (either 5/10km) and an easy run on Thu arvo on the flats around some of the trails at the You Yangs.
Monday, 1 May 2006
Mon 01 May 06, The Tan & a new month
12km today and 31km for the week so far, 1/1 runs this month
Left work just after 5:15pm for a run in the city regon, I was going to run along the Yarra but decided that running on the Tan would be better, some light and I could play around with my pace using the km markers. Walked about a km to where my car was parked and then jogged to the Tan. Progressive laps of the Tan x 3, with all of them to be very much within myself.
Started in light rain and only used my watch to take note of the first km each lap starting from the Pillars and to take note of each lap time. With little wind but regular rain I ended up being a very wet runner. The first km was 5:05, whilst going up Anderson St I noticed Steven, he was about 50m ahead of me, we where going about the same pace and as it was my first lap I didn't want to catch up and throw my pacing out.
Lap times:18:45, 17:50, 17:01. The final lap I mucked around a fair bit, going very quick in the final km for a hundred and then slowing down and then surging again. Finished off with a slow 5 minutes to cool down, stretched in the rain, mainly calves and quads, changed in the rain and then drove home and did a lot of glute and sciatic stretches. Obviously it would have been better if I could have done these at the Tan after my run, but I didn't feel like sitting & laying in the rain. Overall a nice run.
Left work just after 5:15pm for a run in the city regon, I was going to run along the Yarra but decided that running on the Tan would be better, some light and I could play around with my pace using the km markers. Walked about a km to where my car was parked and then jogged to the Tan. Progressive laps of the Tan x 3, with all of them to be very much within myself.
Started in light rain and only used my watch to take note of the first km each lap starting from the Pillars and to take note of each lap time. With little wind but regular rain I ended up being a very wet runner. The first km was 5:05, whilst going up Anderson St I noticed Steven, he was about 50m ahead of me, we where going about the same pace and as it was my first lap I didn't want to catch up and throw my pacing out.
Lap times:18:45, 17:50, 17:01. The final lap I mucked around a fair bit, going very quick in the final km for a hundred and then slowing down and then surging again. Finished off with a slow 5 minutes to cool down, stretched in the rain, mainly calves and quads, changed in the rain and then drove home and did a lot of glute and sciatic stretches. Obviously it would have been better if I could have done these at the Tan after my run, but I didn't feel like sitting & laying in the rain. Overall a nice run.
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