Newcastle Beach

ahh, Sydney

Fall Classic Half Marathon 2011

Here are Will and I waiting for the start of the race after 4 months of long runs, short runs, hill runs and speed training, and a lot of post run chocolate soy milk to reward ourselves in between. 

By the time we got to this point we had already achieved our aim of relaxed training that was hard enough to be challenging (and make us pretty fit) and chilled enough to prevent injury or loss of motivation.  All good.  The run was cold but clear and we (mostly) really enjoyed ourselves.  We had the world's best support crew in Doug and Nicole of course!  I have never had someone to dispense gel, water and a kiss at the half way point before, but I really liked it! 

In the last few kms I felt compelled by some unknown force to put on a burst of speed (after consulting with Will) and managed to pull off a time 10secs under my "this would make me really happy" goal; a time that was only a bit slower than I did in the same race five years ago.  So, buzzing with post race endorphins and a sense of satisfaction we posed for silly photos biting our finisher's medals and then went off for brunch (and a couple of Cesars) to celebrate.  Next target:  Vancouver Marathon May 2012 (or maybe a marathon a bit later in the year if my calf/heel/hip object too much :)  I'm going to do it though.

sunshine on a stick

Farewell summer, we knew you too briefly. We'll wait by the (storm-secured) door for your return.