I am a runner!

So totally unprepared and untrained I went out to do my first half marathon today.  The idea was put in my head after Devilsbend and seeing a young man out doing a half marathon at a nice consistent speed but his appearance was not one you associate with a runner.  My thoughts went to if he is out there giving it a go I think I could as well.  I needed to analyse and contemplate my actions as there are so many great events out there to do but I didn't want my first half to be swallowed in a big event.  Part of my reasoning was what if I do a big event and just don't enjoy 21.1km?  Would I go back and do more if I didn't like the first one?  So my preparation involved only picking an event that was not huge and that had pleasant surrounding. So today I did, at the Mornington Running Festival.  The festival had 150 people registered for the event and of these only 137 finished, or should I say started and finished.

I started at the back of the field as I was certain I would be last over the line.  In doing this I got to talk to some lovely people, and most of us at the back were doing our first half so it was wonderful to feel that camaraderie and encouragement as we ran.  The course is a 5.5ish km course double loop which I thought would play with my head but it didn't it was actually comforting on the second lap to know what was coming (and yes the hills sucked even though at the time I kept saying this is not a hill, it is nice and flat!

I didn't go out with a time in mind as such but 2:30 would have been a perfect time for my first unprepared half marathon.  I went with the flow and set a reasonable pace, I mostly kept to it (6min 22sec) for the whole time.

I made sure to encourage everyone I passed coming towards me no matter where they were in the field or what event they were participating in.  And it felt awesome to be able to see the smiles on the people who you could clearly see needed a boost.  I did find that the front runners were not as receptive to comments or high fives.

My goal was to have a good run, to not once have a demon saying you can't, just walk, etc and I not only achieved that but I also maintained such positivity during the run.  Whenever my mind would wander to something potentially negative/unpleasant I switched it around.  And with the negativity going on lately it was fantastic to instead be able to turn it around and remember the positives.  It was liberating, satisfying and humbling to be able to remember only good things.  And I need to thank those who have been there and encouraged me during my running existence.

My legs although very leaden on the last 3-4km held up and did not need to have a walk break, I ran and survived my first half marathon.  I didn't break any land speed records but I did enjoy the experience of my first half marathon and I have the medal telling me I am a 21.1km FINISHER.

I now have a baseline for future halves, I now have the knowledge I can do this and I now know that for my next half marathon I will train properly for it.  But with everything said and done I am now convinced I AM A RUNNER!!!

Injuries?  a blister on a toe and I will have sore legs tomorrow.  But they are well earnt badges for going out and giving it a go.

Sunshine in Winter

Today was an amazing day.  The sun was shining for one of the last days of Winter.  waking up to the sun shining and knowing you have the day off makes the day all the more worthwhile.

Today I had decided to do a long run.  I was feeling fine and in the zone from the weekend and as usual getting that runners high it was time to think about possibly changing "the plan". 

The plan as mentioned before was to do 10km races this year and do a few 1/2 marathons next year.  It was a carefully thought out plan, or at least that's what I was telling myself.  But then things happen and you do a good run or a bad run and things can change in an instant.  It just goes to show that your mind is one mighty powerful tool.

So as I said, today I planned to do a long run.  It was in my head that if I could do a 15-20km run today that maybe I was ready for a half after all. 

A couple of things I didn't factor in. 

• The weather was quite warm by the time I headed out which meant that running was very hot.  
• I woke late and headed straight out after a cup of tea so my energy levels depleted quickly.  
• I was dehydrated due to the weather and the lack of water already in my system.
• My lips and hands dehydrated quickly with no way to hydrate them.
• I wore a singlet which I have not done for awhile and there was mild chaffing around the underarm.
• My fat was not just crying it was screaming in pain - not that this was a bad thing except for the look.

But there was also a couple of good things to come out of the run as well.

• I tested out the skort again so I Vaselined up and did not have any chaffing issues on the legs
• The idea was to run 5km before I could walk and then only if I needed it.
• I went out with a plan of no quicker than 6:30 pace when running, which I did achieve although around the 7km mark I was feeling strong and the speed just naturally increased.
• There is no shame in walking.
• If I could do between 15-20km that maybe a half is on the cards sooner than previously thought.
• There was no negative thoughts throughout the whole time I was out side.

So after I stopped for a natter at the 14km mark my legs felt like lead, my energy levels were depleted and when I tried to run again it just didn't feel quite right.  But this didn't phase me being out in the sunshine and knowing I had put in a good solid 14km already made everything seem possible.  So yes I walked home the last 5km to make today's outing 19km.

I had managed to down 1.2 litres of water during my outing but still felt dehydrated, but out of all of this I learnt some very important lessons that I can take away with me for any run in future.  As I walked through the door I grabbed some high carb food, more water before heading off to shower, liberally rubbing fisiocream into the calves and then treated myself off to a massage on my weary legs.

 And that half marathon?  Well if I can find one that ticks all the boxes maybe it's closer than I thought.

Sandy Point - the long review

I don't tend to sleep well before a run.....go figure!!  My mind always seems more active and I awake naturally usually hours before I intend to.  Today was no different but at 4am what I heard did not impress me.  The loud sound of rain hitting the roof.  I am not adverse to running in the rain, however I tend to like to start out dry if possible.  So I roll around till I am comfortable and attempt to go back to sleep, for an hour.

Waking on and off for the next hour I end up getting up just before the alarm and realise I probably haven't left enough time to get up, eat something, dress and drive to Mordialloc with enough time to relax before the run begins.  So I grab an apple instead of having a carb high breakfast and head off.  I don't normally do the apple before a race and there is a very clear rule with runners not to try anything new on race day if possible.

There is something about heading out on your own and realising you are doing this on your own and for you.  It's very liberating in fact.  Yes I was meeting a couple of people at the start line but my normal run buddy was heading off for 21.1km of pure fun and the work colleague I was meeting I didn't expect to actually run with for very long, expecting him to race off into the distance while I plod along at my pace.

So we all meet and say a few words and then the start begins, before we get to the timing mat our group is stopped and we wait for another 5-10 minutes before it all goes again.  When it is our turn I start out with a pace around 5:45 which still blows me away that I can run at that speed and below comfortably now when earlier this year 6:30-7 min km was my average.  James and I hold very little conversation but pass a few grunts and singular words as we run.  Just after the 2km mark is a small incline and James takes off into the hill looking strong while I sit on my pace of 5:45.

There is quite a few people around but its not too crowded until we get to the first water station.  James is still ahead and I am still maintaining my pace, although I am slowly making headway to catching up with James again.  just before the 5km turn is another water station which I take advantage of and catch my breath but before I reach the end of the table I am able to run again.....this is a break through.

Just before the 6km mark I see James only a few steps ahead and he is walking....just as I am about to catch him two things happen simultaneously.  James starts to run and my HRM strap comes away.  I try and fix the strap and felt it was slowing me down so I decide to pull over and see if I can fix it while walking and then get back into it.  Unfortunately the wardrobe malfunction could not be fixed so it was time to get back on the trail and I see James ahead and he is walking again so I catch up to him and encourage him to continue running.  Instead of taking it easy he goes out hard and tries to maintain his previous pace and kept wanting to walk, so I talk him into slowing his pace and find something comfortable rather than walking.  He finds it about a km later just as we pass Richo coming the other way on his first 4km of his 1/2 marathon.  At this time James says he is comfortable with the pace and he is actually enjoying the run now and that he went out too hard.  I on the other hand wanted to ensure that I didn't jeopardise my time too much as I had a pb to beat.  So I speed up a little and find a comfortable pace of 5:30-5:35 at the 8km mark I have more in the tank so I pick up the speed a little more, at the 9km I have even more so again I pick up the pace and with 100metres to go I sprint to the end.  My official time was 57:34 which I am ecstatic with.

I learnt a fair bit about myself as a runner today.  I enjoyed the running on my own, the running with my work colleague and the catching up with others after the event.  I enjoyed no pressure from myself and  I really enjoyed cheering Richo across the line at the end of his 1/2 marathon :)

Sandy point is a lovely course, mostly flat with a small incline or two.  On a sunny day it would be magnificent to see the waves crashing and the scenery at its best.  The weather was perfect for running today overcast with a cool breeze.  It will be interesting to do this course again one day either officially or not and see what I can pull out with all pistons blazing.

A Half is a Half is a Half

I have this plan.  The plan to gently increase my running to the point of being able to run 10km comfortably to then increase to 21.1km after a year and then after another year to increase to the magical 42.2km run. 

Whenever I have run a longer distance such as Run for the Kids, City2South and even City2Surf I have thought another 7km cannot be that hard, surely I am ready for a half now?  After Run for the Kids it was a burning itch to run Gold Coast half marathon this year.  I was poised over the submit button with all my details entered and it was so hard to close the web page but I did close it and the run is now done.  I don't regret my decision to stick to my plan but that doesn't mean I don't wonder what if......

When these thoughts I could run a half marathon have been raised I have had the voice of reason on one side saying "stick to the plan" and the encouraging voice on the other side saying "upgrade Sandy point or MM or Sussans or find another run to do".

Continually one thing through this has kept me on the straight and narrow, my head is not ready but maybe the body is and other days its the head is ready but the body is not.

This is becoming increasingly harder every time it comes up and there have been times I have been so close to giving in to the other side so close I have had my details entered and my mouse hovering over the submit button but that little voice saying "the plan the plan" has always won.

Today I was thinking my body is almost ready for a half marathon, wow even saying it that way a "Half Marathon...." I know I can run 15km on flat without too many demons in my head.  I know of many runs coming up that I could use as a goal to increase the training and commit to the half I even have friends doing halves that I know I could tag along on training runs with but the voice of reason(?) shoots me down to earth saying patience. 

I have never been one for patience, if I want something I just go and get it, you always find a way or a means to get what you want but the patience thing has never been my strong point.  I am proud of my friends who have and will be running halves this year and beyond.  The ones who have their body and minds on the one track and I will watch them with pride, and encourage them and wistfully think in the background that will be me one day :)

I know that a half marathon is not a walk in the park type of scenario and that I need to train properly.  It's not just putting the K's in my legs I also need to train the other parts of the body as well.  Not like most of my runs this year where I have been doing parkrun but not actually training for anything longer.  With the run season in full force now the distance is not so much of an issue I can do 10-14km without too much of an issue but am I really ready to commit to 21.1km without firstly committing to a run program which includes actual running?

I know what I am ready for and that is being on the sidelines cheering these amazing people on and hoping that at the finish line I can be there for their stories, their tears of accomplishment and joy. What a big and amazing year this has been for all of us.  What feats we have accomplished already and how many more do we have to come.  I love my running life and where it is leading me :)

Devilbend

Sunday morning and another run on the calendar.  This one is for a local group and I had been told it was challenging.  The week after City2Surf and the day after a 15km run/walk by me.

The usualish routine begins, up early, put on the clothes that were laid out the night before, swallow some water, have a small breakfast (today was a banana) and then head out the door.  Leaving early enough to head to running buddy house to car pool.

We got to Devilbend early and expected lots of cars but we saw none, so the designated driver in their wisdom decided to get closer and ended up on the course driving almost to the start line and getting prime parking thanks to one of the volunteers.

We headed to the start line the weather was cold, the people were milling around and the excitement levels were rising.  It was good to hear other's stories, the kids running for a great cause, mainly their sick family members which is sad that they have a sick parent but lovely to hear that they have decided to run to raise awareness for the causes of their illnesses.

There were a few vendors some portaloos and lots of conversations happening.

It was soon time to start.  This was the first run I have one to with no plan, no expectations and no idea on any of the course other than I had heard it was challenging.  Being a small local event there was no blown up start line or starters gun it was a pink line drawn on the ground and a guy with bad jokes and a mega phone.....priceless.  It was such a relaxed atmosphere.

We head out after a 3, 2, 1 go start and we are just cruising.  We started at the back end of the pack and let the crowd disperse around us.  The first water station was less than a km from the start so we bypass it.  We continue running and about the 2 km mark we see the first of the 1/2 marathoners coming the other way, for the next km or so we see many of the 1/2ers pass us coming the other way.  We continue down the road and notice about the 3km mark a fairly large man huffing and puffing and Richo encourages him saying that the 1/2 way turn around point is just ahead, he smiles and waves us on.

We turn around and head back just before the 4km mark, the head is not playing nicely and the ass is hurting again after the long run the day before but the feet keep lifting and propelling me forward.  We see some rises in the distance thinking the tough bits are still to come but manage to overcome them nicely.  Around the 6km mark we see the lead 1/2 marathoner coming towards us again, this time there was a fairly large gap between the groups coming towards us and we encourage each of them as we continue on.

Heading back to the turn into the reservoir Richo heads off to the car for his wallet while i continue on my merry way.  He catches up not too far into the distance.  We continue up a small incline and hear directions to keep to the right to ensure the 1/2 marathoners have space to come back towards us.  We come into the park and then follow a small trail into the reservoir park itself.  The ground is spongy, the legs are OK but the head is starting to play up as it does.  

Keeping to the trail we go up and around following the other runners, overtaking some and some overtaking us.  On our home stretch of this section I see Leanne coming towards us, I missed her at the turn around point.  Again we offer the oncoming runners encouragement and keep going.  The last little incline was trying to beat me but I had that voice in my head and ears telling me to continue.  We get over the finish line, get passed our medals, grab a drink and some fruit just in time to turn around and see the first 1/2 marathoner cross the line.  My first thoughts are how does a 21.1km runner cross the line less than 5 minutes after I do 10km?  They only started 10 or so minutes before us.  I am in awe of these very fit and toned athletes.

On our way back to the car we got overtaken by the last of the 1/2 marathon runners and to our amazement the guy we had encouraged back at the 1/2 way turn mark overtook us running.  He was still doing a steady pace, he was covered in sweat all over his back, shorts and even skins but he was doing it.  Both Richo and I thought I wonder if he did the 10 or is going back for the 1/2, he was a half marathoner and he was inspiring us.  He was not built like an athlete, he was not dressed like an athlete but by golly by gosh he is an athlete and he was out there doing it.  Having a look later he took 2:46:53 to complete but he did it.  It just reminds me that running is not about shape, size, speed, ability or anything other than the desire to just go and do it.

The course was very picturesque and beautiful, the runners and volunteers encouraging and friendly and the run a beautiful day out for us.  It was to me an almost flat course, although you see some rises in the distance when you are on them they are not that tough.  I really enjoyed this course and depending on my schedule for next year this could be a 1/2 Marathon potential for me.

Next week Sandy Point 10km for me :)  See you there!

Family fun times

As we all know you can't choose your blood family but you can choose your friends.

I am very lucky to have 4 sisters with different personalities, different lives and different goals. I don't always see eye to eye with them and sometimes we say things without thinking but at the end of the day we are still together through a blood bond.

You think in life that the family you are dealt is one of two you have, the one you are born into and the one you decide to make yourself with your partner and possibly your own children as a by-product of that relationship.

However I believe there is a third family.  The family who are not a family by blood or marriage but the one you choose to spend time with, to love, play, laugh, and cry with. I am lucky to have an extended running family. The ones I choose to spend my running triumphs with, my achievements, my lows, my highs, my tears of joy and sorrow and my "yay" moments.

When you can organise for your running sisters to go on a road trip to another place and spend a weekend with you, and to do the thing that brought you all together it is like heaven on a stick.  Today is one of those days.  Today we head to Sydney in search of the City2Surf experience.  These are the ladies who pump me up and get my legs moving every week for parkrun. These ladies make up the female component of the running family and they are the ones who started the running journey with me. Love them all to death and love that we can do this together still and hopefully in 5, 10, 15 and even 20 years I can be saying the same.

The nerves of the past week for the coming weekend have been replaced with excitement again.  The unknown journey begins, sharing of the experiences with the people I admire and that inspire me every day.

 

Our current plans subject to change as 5 women try and organise themselves to be in the same place and somewhat the same time.

·       Fly to Sydney and make way to hotel

·       parkrun St Peters as tourists

·       Bridge climb Sydney Harbour Bridge

·       City2Surf Expo

·       Dinner somewhere

·       City2Surf run

·       Bondi swim/recovery walk

·       Head back to Melbourne.

Fun times ahead……bring it on!!

City2Surf

So next week is the big City2Surf trip with the girls.  I remember us all being so excited when we booked this as our first all girls weekend away.  I remember the enthusiasm, the trying to talk everyone into it, the planning, the confusion, the trying to find accommodation to suit all, the dramas and the self talk and doubt.  One of the main things I clearly remember was the camaraderie we all felt, how close we all felt as a group of aspiring 14km runners.

That was months ago now and finally we all agreed on accommodation, all five of us committed by buying our entry and booking flights and even then booking seats on the plane.  Two of us booking bridge climb others umming and ahhhing on whether to do it or not but finally deciding it was not for them for their own reasons.

I have to say up until a few weeks back this was one of the most exciting things I was looking forward to this year.  But as it gets closer it's appeal is not the same.  The voice of self doubt is creeping in, the feelings that things may change between us all as this chapter of our lives is completed and waiting to discover what chapters will come afterwards.  Will I finish the 14km and finish it well, have I trained a little better, am I nourishing my body, have I made enough changes to do this and not let the demons enter mid race for too long and to win.

Have you ever been so excited for something for so long that the closer it comes the more you feel as nervous as you were excited?  I hope that during this week I can squash the demons and allow the angels to fly.

Run Melbourne......HECK YEAH!!!

12 months ago I ran my first 10km race with my run buddy Richard spurring me on every step of the way.  I wasn't fast, I struggled, I was cajoled along most of the way and I stopped at every drink station but that was the only time I didn't run.  My time was 1 hour 9 minutes and 21 seconds.

My best 10km event ever was the MS Fun Run 2014 where I finished at 1:01:52.  This race is a flat two laps of Albert Park and although it is not a totally familiar course for me its not foreign either.

So today's aim?  To run 10km without stopping, to run it at below 60 minutes, to run it strong, to not stop at every water station and to enjoy the run with my running family. 
Did I achieve this?

• run without stopping?             
• CHECK
• do not stop at each water station      
• CHECK only stopped at the 5km one
• Run Strong?                                       
• I felt strong till about the 7km mark when the chaffing was becoming unbearable but I am going to CHECK this one as I did it much better than other races.
• Under 60 minutes????
• Yeah Baby 59 minutes 40 seconds.

Things to do better/lessons learnt

• The skort is awesome to run in however I need longer pants with it or to take care of chaffing business.
• Be aware of other runners as they are not always aware of you - 

 Things I did well

• enjoyed the race
• no mental head games
• felt strong and went strong when I had it and the same when I needed to catch my breath
• Celebrated success with my running family.

 The below is my running family.  The family you want to spend time exercising with and having healthy outings with when your own family have other ideas of fun.  Love these guys at any time but so proud of each and everyone of them today for what goals they set and what they achieved.

Back row L-R, Loz, Richo, Jassand - Front row L-R, Neets, Steph and Raels

A bit tongue in cheek here with the news recently that Thor could become a woman (Marvel news) This one was for Red who couldn't be here today but was with me every step of the way.

Remember always to Imagine you can, Believe you can and You will Achieve it

runPositive

What does runPositive mean to you? 

To me its about running for a cause, running for freedom, running because of how you will feel not how you feel in the moment, running with friends and running because you can.  Sometimes it also just about beating the demons inside and when you do they are great runs.

It means something different to everyone.  But there are those out there who genuinely can't run, who wish more than anything they could but they can't and when thinking of those people it puts in perspective that while you can and while you enjoy it you should embrace it and do it.

So do what you love and do it to the best of your ability and try to do it positively!

Mornington Fun Run

Wow perfect conditions for running - a little foggy, sun rising, no breeze, the waves gently lapping the banks of the beach.

There were less runners than last year, which was great for us as it was a less congested field.  The first little hill was conquered, then next incline was smashed, the "hill" was beaten from last year but beat me at the very end, however I probably only walked 50m before running again.  Going downhill it was hard not to get caught up in speeding to the end of the line, and then a small incline again.  Then off for lap 2.  The hills played with my head again however having my running partner beside me meant there was little room for letting it completely conquer me.  I probably walked 100-150m total in the hills.  And again coming back down the hill meant little time to rein in the enthusiasm. 

When you round that last corner and can see the finish line and the time is well below what you expected and lower than the year before you do get that little sense of accomplishment and a small burst of speed in your feet.

A step in time

Tomorrow is Race number 8 for the year.  I did the Mornington race last year and the hill beat me I walked up it both times.  So although I feel under prepared for this one I will be attempting at least running up the hill for the first lap.  My aim is to beat last years time (when isn't it?) which was 51:47.  I think last year I was fitter than this year and the head was definitely fighting less demons last year but I think I can do this and do it without the demons winning.

Time Flies

Wow, I cannot believe how slack I have been last run update was May for R4TK.  Since then I have completed successfully MS Fun run 10km in just over an hour, my fastest 10km ever, I have also done City2South in Brisbane, 14km in 1:33:33 including walking up the hill and a loo stop so I was pretty happy with the time.

So in brief (well as brief as I can be) the MS Run was a slightly cold and slightly wet day although the rain held off for the run.  Richard, the ever faithful run buddy, was there with me every step of the way.  we started near the front of the pack and soon found our groove at about km 2.  There was no stopping for water at the provided stations as 5km is a parkrun and we don't do water there.  The 2nd 5km was a little harder and at about km 7 I felt the urge to pee so had to stop and empty my tiny bladder.  Onwards and towards the end I really felt it as a hard run and when we came in just over the on hour mark although I would have loved to do under I was pleased to have done it, done it and beat the demons and to come so close.  My aim is to get under 1 hour for a 10km race this year at or before October 12 where its then time to think of the half marathon :)

City2South in brief was the most AMAZING run I have ever participated in.  There was nothing that was not totally amazing and wonderful about this trip.  the first 5km was just awesome to be out with all these other runners, the next 5km was a little tougher but was completed still with a smile on my dial, the next 4 kms were tougher, my buddy was struggling, I was struggling and when we saw the hill at km12 we walked it.  It gave us our breath back and we then ran the last km home.  it as amazing crossing the line with your partner in crime, and although the time was 1:33:33 and not under 1:30 we did it and from here the only way is up!

The next run on the list is scheduled for next weekend.  Again it will just be Richard and I and a few hundred other runners.  We did this one last year and the run repeat and the hill is difficult but I look forward to conquering this and hopefully beating last years time (which escapes me at the moment)

Run season is in full swing!

R4tK

OK I know this is out of order but at least I am getting it all down.

Run For the Kids wow 15km.  I hadn't trained like I said I would, I hadn't prepared like I knew I should, I was just there to run what I could and savour the moment.

My running buddy Richard was beside me the whole way, he really is not only my inspiration but my conscious at times to get out there and do it.  He encourages me, he inspires me and he is just so hilarious and pushy!

So I start the day out at the Parkview Hotel with a quick breakfast before heading off to the Jemena tent to wait for Richard and Katrina.  I was so gosh damned nervous.  My heart was racing, my body was repelling, I was so so so so nervous and doubted I could do it.

As usual the first km is always the barrier for me once its over things come easier but the mind still plays games.  Running through the tunnel was AH MAZ ING oh it was so special to see all those people running through, it was no effort to run the whole distance and to savour the moment.  Coming up and over the first bridge was a little tiring but we still had not got to parkrun distance the amount of people me and 35,000 close friends all running together.  We went down the ramp on the freeway and the Bolte turn was in sight, so were the men's pit stop on the fwy!  We turned the corner and ran up the Bolte, I wanted to stop and take a picture but was worried if I did that I wouldn't start running again so decided I would run to the top of the bridge before stopping and taking one photo then onwards and upwards. 

Around the 10km mark I started to slow down, Richard had his music on and playing loud and started to up the pace whilst I was starting to struggle a little.  Coming around into the Collins St hill I couldn't fathom running it so I took the option to walk it.  Then it was back to it Richo had the music still going and was relentless, as we rounded the corner into Spencer and then along Southbank the mind was again saying no as this was the furthest I have ever run in one session.  The drink station along here I tried to walk and drink as I normally do but it made the water go down the wrong way so I needed to stop cough and then go again.  Richo was the one getting me to run at this point the head was saying enough is enough but I kept at it until we turned off the Yarra and on to the last small incline, I walked here and had to force myself to get back to it instead.  We got up the incline onto StKilda road and managed to pick it up a little.  It was the best run I have done to date and it made me feel invincible.  Mind you every run has this feeling no matter the distance once it is over.

Richard pulled me through this one from 10km onwards, prior to that I was setting the pace and it was comfortable.  official time was 1:39:07 which was a great time, and the 10km was 1:05:07 which is a PB by 2 minutes for me.  Nothing world record shattering but I was proud of myself.

And I will admit to hearing "I had the time of my life" on the radio on the way home, it was on, it was loud, and I was belting out that tune thinking I was pretty awesome.

Mothers Day Classic

Today a week after OxFam was Mothers day.

And my amazing family decided to do MDC with me this year.  Kirstin and I doing the 8km run and the rest doing the 4km walk 2 hours later.  That was the plan, unfortunately plans do go awry sometimes.

So Jacob and Kirstin went out last night, late, drinking, and of course woke very hungover.  It looked like they were going to pull the pin but somehow managed to pull it together enough to get in the car albeit 15 minutes later than planned departure.

We got the the almost start line and did a quick driver change over while I went to the start line meeting up with my amazing friends in Anita, Stephanie and even Miss Tiffany.  The object today was to run as much as I could but not to come out with any injuries as it is only a week after OxFam.

My mind barriers today were

• the first km, I hadn't run in over 2 weeks so this one was all about saying I won't stop.
• Anderson St Hill, I decided no matter what I was going to run to the top of the hill then I could stop if I really needed to
• Birwood Ave, I just so wanted to walk, I was on my own and really had to think I haven't done the distance of parkrun yet so you can't give in.  Thoughts of Mum and Aurora entered my mind as people with tribute cards were running past or I past them.
• Linlithgow Ave, I will run till I get to Anderson St Hill then I can walk the hill and wait for the girls to catch up.
• Alexandra Ave, it really is a good day for a run isn't it.
• Anderson St Hill x2, I walked the hill contemplated life and said I would run the moment I got to the top and I did.
• Birwood Ave again was time to reflect about Mum and Aurora, tears formed but did not fall.
• St Kilda Road, I'm almost done, oh look there is someone I know best I dodge them and look like I am not running out of steam.
• The Finish line, I can put some speed on, I have some left in me finish like the champion you are, do this for your daughter's first Mothers day, do it for your grand-daughters and do it for the mum who never saw you achieve anything.

It was another emotional race, I finished in 52:07 for 8km which I was happy with.  No new injuries however I can feel my legs and thighs are a little sore but nothing that I won't recover from.

Another runners high in completing the event, now off to find the family and walk to the start line again.  Kirstin, Jacob, Eric and I went off to the start line waiting for Jayne, Anthony and Destiny.  When we all caught up off we went on a 4km walk, my husband loves to take the short cut but we didn't let him take to many today.  It was so much fun having everyone out there, although Kirstin had a few private moments thinking of her baby but Destiny stayed by her side.  It really is extraordinary to see all my family out there doing what I love for Mothers day.

Followed by a very decadent brunch in Lygon Street. 

Next run MS Fun Run June 1

Seriously who would walk 100km for fun?  OK it did start out as fun, what better way to spend a Friday than walking with inspiring work mates.  The weather forecast was closely being watched the week before the event as it was slowly deteriorating over the 10 days before slowly looking better.  I will try and chronicle the event impartially but emotionally as this is what the event felt like.

So we all met up at 7am for an 8am start.  The team were Tyrone our fearless leader, Katrina, Peter and I with Adam 24 hour support and Leo and Madhvi interchanging.

8am the countdown was over and off we walk through Jells park to Ferntree Gully road, past what we now know was a police drug bust, it did allow us time to converse about what it was all about and we were way off with our murder theory.  Checkpoint (cp) by Checkpoint
start - 8:00am Peter feeling decidedly ill but willing to give it a go.  Man that boy is stubborn but we had to start with 4 of us so he took one for the team.  Katrina had a sore throat which she had been battling all week, but again wanted to soldier on she is also stubborn.  Tyrone and I were aok and ready to rock and roll

Churchill Park 12.4km cp1- 9:57am and no support access was available so in and out we went.  We had not done this section of the trail so the one and only hill was a surprise.  All were feeling good, joyful and full of beans besides Peter who we were force feeding bananas to along the way.

Lysterfield Lake  8.8km (21.2) cp2 - 11:19-11:37 somehow we got onto food, it may have been the fact that Peter was feeling so ill and we were giving him bananas hour or so.  Anyway it was decided we all needed Pizza so a call to the support crew and voila pizza was delivered hot and steamy at 11:19am when we arrived at the checkpoint.  It was also discussed as we went below power lines about the likelihood of a fluorescent tube lighting up beneath them and so the support crew even went out and bought one for us, alas we didn't pass under any further power lines

Ferntree Gully 11km (32.2) cp3 - 2:03 On our way through Upwey we noticed we were an hour ahead of schedule, how stoked were we that we were ahead?  so damned stoked we rang the support crew who tried to make us feel guilty about their 50m dash in the rain to the pub and they were still drying off.  Yes the humor was lost on us.  We stopped on the way to the cp, changed what we needed to, had a drink and some food and then checked in and out.  Peter was feeling much better by this point

Olinda 10.9km (43.1) cp4 - 4:37 - 5:25 This was always going to be the tough section, the section that involved big hills right towards the end of the first 50km.  We thought this was going to be the hardest and although it had its challenges and was difficult it was not the worst of the lot.  At Olinda my feet were attended to and so were my very sore legs.  It was at this time I thought that the whole 100km was out the window.  Peter at this point had been feeling fit for quite some time.  We ate our dinner, changed into night gear and set off about 6pm.  We were no longer an hour ahead.  I had serious doubts of continuing much more

Mt Evelyn 15.1km (58.2) cp5 - 9:40 Doing the goat track at night was actually partly exhilarating.  I had the iPhone music going had some jokes going, got a few laughs all while thinking of the hell I was feeling.  This would be the second part of the trail where silently you could see someone struggling.  Yes it was dark but it was the seeing emotionally not visually that you knew.  We got through the section we were all exhausted and thank gosh for the fantastic support crew who had everything set up ready to go!  The highlight was seeing that 50km sign knowing we were half way done.  To add to this we were led the wrong way and added probably 2km to our travels which was soul destroying as we were showing signs of fatigue

cp6 Worri Yallock 13.2km (71.4)12:32 The strain was starting to show along this section, it was tough, it was flat and mostly open and it was boring.  Peter got his feet attended to and a massage at this point, this was the stop where I voiced my concern that I was not up to finishing the whole thing.  This was heart break primary at its finest.  I tried to get a few winks but it was not meant to be. 

cp7 Warburton 21.8km (93.2) 7:22 OMG bat shit boring does not begin to describe this section. 22km of hell, flat, long, open, dark, lonely, forever, and then the hill started and didn't seem to end.  the Aqueduct was torture it never seemed to end at the top of the hill we were told 4km of the aqueduct then 2km downhill, my heart sank.  Everyone struggled on this section.  I know I like to be in control but it was this section I said we are a team we need to stick together as we all have to check in together and out together but alas the team divided two ahead and two behind.  Those ahead got extra rest breaks those behind did not but were the ones who needed it.  This is where I cracked, I was glad it was dark so no one could see the tears forming, but being an emotional sook that didn't stop me at cp7.  Pete and I talked for the last few km's and I told him I was pulling out my blisters and sore legs took their toll but no more than my mental state which was at its lowest.

Wesburn Park 6.8km (100) Finish 9:10  We checked out so the team could continue without us, however as we checked out and cancelled at cp8 we got credit for finishing.  Now as much as I am disappointed that I didn't walk 100km and finish I am accepting the certificate that says I did and I will be honest if anyone asks me but I had to finish when I did as the team were not going to wait for me to be mentally fit to finish and the same for Peter, it days, weeks or months to come I will change my mind on this many times but today I am still ok with the fact I didn't finish as I could not go on.  The volunteers are amazing at this event, no more than anywhere else I suspect but because of the mental state such a long wet, cold, boring 100km it seems they are more important.  Next year I will volunteer along the Warby trail for the night shift and hope to lift some spirits.

It was definitely an experience, today I say never again but you know with the right team it could be a possibility.

Special mention to the support crew Adam was totally amazing doing everything we asked with a smile and never a whimper, he anticipated our needs our moods and he helped us achieve all we did.  Leo and Madhvi were part time and each had their merits on the day.  They were all fantastic and nothing could be done with out them

Jan - Rosebud 10k (Medal) - Completed 1:07:00
Feb - Queen of the lake (undecided) - did Tower run in Beaconsfield instead
Mar - Cardinia 10k (undecided) - nothing
Apr - Run for the kids 15k (no medal) - 1:39:00
May - OxFam (no medal) - entered 25:10:00
         - Mothers Day Classic 8k (Medal) - entered
Jun - MS Fun Run 10k (no medal) - entered
       - City2Sea - Brisbane (Medal)
Jul - Mornington Bay Run (no medal) - entered 
       - Run Melbourne 10k (Medal) - entered
Aug - City to Surf - Sydney 14k (Medal) - Girls weekend with a bridge climb for all.
        - Sandy Point (no medal) - entered
Sep - City to bay Adelaide 12k (Medal)
Oct - Melbourne Marathon Festival 10k (Medal) - entered
Nov - City to Sea 14k (Medal)
Dec - Sussans Classic 10k (Medal)

Celebrating the lucky country

Wow so long since I posted that I am a little in awe that I remember this page existed and how to blog.

Today was Australia day and this day last year was my first 5km run for the year.  I was fit and healthy and on the right track to achieving great things.  At the end of the race as a collective group us girls decided next year we would do the 10km run.  Well today was that moment and the three of us girls and the very delightful Laurie all participated in the 10km run.  Now none of us thought we could do it but we entered anyway and at the end of the race we had all run our best race, our best time and felt elated.  We also had help from Richo pacing me who is one of my best supporters in my running and the lovely Steph pacing Katrina and Anita catching Richo and I.  It was so well timed and welcomed.

This year is meant to be the year of the 10km events for me and I have a schedule and I have great friends who are hoping to do this with me.  How god damned far have we all come and how fantastic do we feel when we can all reveal in these feelings together.

Jan - Rosebud 10k (Medal) - Completed 1:07:00
Feb - Queen of the lake (undecided)
Mar - Cardinia 10k (undecided)
Apr - Run for the kids 15k (no medal) - Entered
May - Mothers Day Classic 8k (Medal) - entered
Jun - MS Fun Run 10k (no medal)
Jul - Run Melbourne 10k (Medal) entered
Aug - City to Surf - Sydney 14k (Medal) - Girls weekend with a bridge climb for all.
Sep - City to bay Adelaide 12k (Medal)
Oct - Melbourne Marathon Festival 10k (Medal)
Nov - City to Sea 14k (Medal)
Dec - Sussans Classic 10k (Medal)

On the otherside is that Red also participated and walked the 5.3km, did his best time, finished it and got his very own first medal.  I cannot express how proud of him I am.  I may have come a long way from 2 years ago but it looks like hubby's mind is swaying a little and he is making an effort to participate in some of these events with me.  How cool will it be to have him run 5km with me?

Back on the trail

It's been awhile since I last wrote and I know no one is watching this space so I thought it could be released back into fruition.

Since my last post I have been to Thailand.  Just going through the photos tonight I am pleased to say these are very much a different story than the USA trip.  But in looking at the photos it was beautiful to see that the body my daughter has defined for herself is looking awesome.  She has worked hard for it and the results are showing.  I think this could be what spurs me on so I am going to pick a couple of my favourites and have them printed as my inspiration.

I also have  great inspiration in the 3 Amigos.  They have arms to envy and a renewed sense of passion for cardio when things start to fall apart.  They inspire me in ways that I didn't think possible.

It doesnt matter how many times you fall right?  It's all about how many times you get back up!  And now it's time to get back up and fight for what I want one day at a time.

So not only do I need to be eating better but I also need to get back into the toning exercises - ie Pump, squats, abs, dreaded triceps and biceps and even some cardio.

They normally call it dry July don't they so many it should be dry and sugar reduced for me as well as increase in physical activity to run more and to do toning at least twice a week. 

Imagine, Believe, Achieve!

Ultimate Reward

It's been a massive year already and we are not a month done.  I hope this is a sign of all the good things to come. :)

I have been pretty damned good with my food and exercise only ballsing it up twice and those two times have been in the last week.  It's almost like I can see the goal and am scared of getting there which is totally ridiculous as I am excited to get to the "end" result.

I bought a gorgeous dress for Raelene's wedding which my daughter could not get done up in the shop but 3 days later it fit, now to make it look more awesome than it does :)

Today we booked a 12 day holiday in Thailand for June.  So time to start getting serious about finishing the weight loss, starting on the toning and generally feeling better about where I was and where I now am so that I can enjoy a shopping and relaxing holiday :)

My running is improving again and I have stuck at C25K for four weeks worth of running in around 3 weeks worth of time.  I am feeling fitter and actually looking forward to pounding the pavement again.  Not always when I am doing it but definitely before and after.  I may surprise myself and my running legs soon.

I am now the lightest I have been in around 15 years and it feels good.  My health has improved, my life has improved and I am a much happier person.  Here is to continuing on a better life forwards :)  This is my Ultimate Reward in life and I am proud to have done this the right way for the right reasons and found so many like minded wonderful people in the process :)

If you are too lazy to work out, you don't want it bad enough!

A weeek on and re reading the previous post I have remembered again to do this for me and the right reasons, this was a good reflection point for me and I will be re reading it again and again I suspect.

So this week I have focused on me I have eaten so clean during the week and allowed a few extra indulgences in on the weekend, no sugar items just a little extra food.  I still managed to exercise every day, visit the treadmill a few times, ride the bike on the weekend and enjoy C25K which I am now up to W3D1 completed.  I shifted 2.2kg of weight because I have been clean and trained mean.  Love it!!!

My Goal of reaching 75 before the end of January is agressive but I believe achievable.

My mantra this past week has been "You are good enough" as well as "If you're too lazy to work out, you don't want it bad enough"  This has got me off my ass and into gear and even continuing when all I wanted was to give up on many occassions.  I am good enough and I do want it bad enough.  I still have 1 kilo to lose to get to my lightest weight of 2012 even though I only saw it for one day.  I am hoping next week will do this for me.

Loving the feeling of being back in control, organised and strong. 

Be true to you.

Jass xoxo

30 day challenge

Very proud of myself today.  calories have been great, exercise has been fantastic (maybe a little overboard) head has been awesome and focus has been true.  What more could you ask for?

I think I am back, and I will reach my first challenge to be <= 75.9 by 01/02/13 being this focused again is scary yet empowering and very scary.  Healthy weight range here I come

Ted says stuff, and he says try something new for 30 days.  This isn't new but I am trying the sugar free again for this 30 days.  Head is in a better space this time so I think I have a better chance of success.