I'm not sure if anyone is still reading this- but I just want to put on record my thanks for all your support.
The money given towards my target helped to keep me motivated - and I know first hand what a difference the money can and will make.....so a huge THANK YOU to you all.
I DID IT!!!
2 HOURS 33 MINUTES ..and I crossed the finish line [in tears it has to be said].
It was no walk in the park...but up until 11.5 miles I was fine...those last few miles were a killer.
The crowd helped but the pain in my knees was almost unbearable.
As we sat in the pub we discussed doing it again - I said never...and at 2.30am this morning I was saying NEVER....but as the day wears on and the pain wears off....well who knows!!
I really want to thank everyone who has supported me on this challenge. Words of encouragement and financial sponsorship have meant so much...and kept me going!!
Thanks to everyone - you know who you are x
End of the training -really!!
A quick 3.5 miles this morning was my last training run. Now it's just carbo-loading and packing the bags. I cannot believe the GREAT day is almost here.
Thanks to everyone who has sponsored me - it really has helped to keep me focused...just got to get through those 13.1 miles [fingers crossed]
Thanks to everyone who has sponsored me - it really has helped to keep me focused...just got to get through those 13.1 miles [fingers crossed]
The reward... A glass of something bubbly
Well it was a hot day,hilly course and only one water stop ( not where it was expected to be)... But the pace was on target so I should be happy.
So that's it- a couple of 4 milers this week and then finally The Great North Run next Sunday.
I'm nervous,excited,worried and relieved the time has come.
In the meantime- another glass to celebrate my sons first wedding anniversary ,that is how it all started after all
Last Long Run
Well today is our last long run - Lichfield 10k. That meant that last night was had pasta (carbo-loading) -BUT never before have we done so without plenty of red wine. 7 of us struggled-yes struggled, to finish 1 bottle....this is serious!
Not Good Timing
Today was my last long-run before the Great North Run - and it was awful.
I struggled from 7 miles...hated it!!
I really, really hope that is my 'bad run' out of the way - it can only get better now, with just two weeks to go!!
I struggled from 7 miles...hated it!!
I really, really hope that is my 'bad run' out of the way - it can only get better now, with just two weeks to go!!
Shut up & be thankful
This morning I took the call I had been dreading - my friend Sarah died last night.
Although she had been brave throughout her illness - this was her time...so why am I moaning about aching legs?
Running gear on -and a quick 4 miles [with tears in my eyes most of the way]. She was proud of what I was doing - so I have to be thankful that I can
Although she had been brave throughout her illness - this was her time...so why am I moaning about aching legs?
Running gear on -and a quick 4 miles [with tears in my eyes most of the way]. She was proud of what I was doing - so I have to be thankful that I can
4 weeks to go
So with four weeks to go - it was time to up the mileage.
Sunday morning - warm and sunny - it wouldn't normally be my plan to run for 2 hours - but I did.
I can't pretend it didn't hurt [and hurts more today!!] - I just keep thinking it is just a few hours out of my life for a worthy cause!!
Sunday morning - warm and sunny - it wouldn't normally be my plan to run for 2 hours - but I did.
I can't pretend it didn't hurt [and hurts more today!!] - I just keep thinking it is just a few hours out of my life for a worthy cause!!
After the sun - the rain
Well Sunday's run in the sunshine was simply awful. Paul had said that to run a usual route in reverse would vary the running - so I did!!
I will never complain about the 'uphill' parts again...because obviously they aren't that bad. This was a nightmare.
I did it , but have no idea how.
This morning 'the plan'indicated a 45min run was needed - and it was raining!
- but I got out there - and I'm so glad that I did.
I had one of my best runs...feeling back on track [still need to attract more sponsorship though!!]
https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/suejay1
I will never complain about the 'uphill' parts again...because obviously they aren't that bad. This was a nightmare.
I did it , but have no idea how.
This morning 'the plan'indicated a 45min run was needed - and it was raining!
- but I got out there - and I'm so glad that I did.
I had one of my best runs...feeling back on track [still need to attract more sponsorship though!!]
https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/suejay1
The extra mile
Going that extra mile - so that was 9 , this morning was no easy feat!!
It was a beautiful, warm sunny Sunday morning- but just adding on that extra 'bit' hurt....still keep thinking how much further 13.1 will be!!!
Riding last night means no running this morning!
Although I had a really lovely time with Lichfield Ladies Circle, pony trekking on Cannock Chase last night...it definitely wasn't good for my knees.
As soon as I stepped out of bed this morning I knew the planned 4 miler was out of the question.
Fingers crossed that some rest and easy exercises sort it - soon
As soon as I stepped out of bed this morning I knew the planned 4 miler was out of the question.
Fingers crossed that some rest and easy exercises sort it - soon
2 Month Timeline Today
How time flys - when you are having fun!!!
My training run yesterday was 8 miles in lovely warm sunshine..and that doesn't sem to happen often at the moment [the sunshine, not the 8 miles!]...
The weeks are flying by - and I am still only just over half way in terms of mileage covered in one go - I hope this is all going to be ok!
My training run yesterday was 8 miles in lovely warm sunshine..and that doesn't sem to happen often at the moment [the sunshine, not the 8 miles!]...
The weeks are flying by - and I am still only just over half way in terms of mileage covered in one go - I hope this is all going to be ok!
10 Weeks To Go
Ten weeks today I will be on my way- heading through the streets to complete ( hopefully) the
Great North Run - time to ask for your support,please
https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/suejay1
https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/suejay1
Inspiration...
He may be famous for 400 metres, not half-marathons, but nevertheless, meeting Roger Black on Saturday has spurred on my training.
6 miles before breakfast yesterday, so I'm still on track.
What A Birthday...
Yesterday I received a fantastic birthday present - I am so proud and honoured - to have been elected Chairman of Birmingham Children's Hospital Charities.
This will of course mean lots of hard work - but it couldn't be for a more worthy cause....so I guess it's time to ask you all to support me on my Great North Run challenge to start my term of office off in style ;-please see the link on the right hand side of the page - and Thank You in advance
This will of course mean lots of hard work - but it couldn't be for a more worthy cause....so I guess it's time to ask you all to support me on my Great North Run challenge to start my term of office off in style ;-please see the link on the right hand side of the page - and Thank You in advance
Midlands Fun Run - Done!!
Well that was tough. Who knew Sutton Colfield had so many hills?!
After all that rain,the sun came out and it was really warm throughout the 8.5 miles.
That is the furthest I have run- and my legs are in shock!
I feel very proud of myself - please,just don't mention how much further I will have to run in The Great North Run
100 days to go
I am reliably informed that there are just 100 days until the Great North Run - how did that happen?
Last weekends Jubilee celebrations may not have been the best preparation for this weekends Midlands Fun Run [8.5 miles]. Fortunately last week I managed to 'bank' a good few miles.
I managed 4 miles on Tuesday and 2.5 [in the pouring rain] this morning. Now its time to have a rest...and panic!!
Last weekends Jubilee celebrations may not have been the best preparation for this weekends Midlands Fun Run [8.5 miles]. Fortunately last week I managed to 'bank' a good few miles.
I managed 4 miles on Tuesday and 2.5 [in the pouring rain] this morning. Now its time to have a rest...and panic!!
Lesson Learnt - the hard way
You wouldn't expect a car to move with no fuel in it - so why did I think I could run without proper fuel in my body?
A nice late lunch, a couple of cocktails and a late night are not good preparation for a run - as I discovered earlier this week.
I have never found a run so difficult. I had to stop at a pub and ask for water - and had to deviate from the planned route and head home.
Two days later, proper evening meal no alcohol and a good nights sleep - early morning run for 1 hour - perfect.
All adds up to a lesson learnt and more experince for a novice!
A nice late lunch, a couple of cocktails and a late night are not good preparation for a run - as I discovered earlier this week.
I have never found a run so difficult. I had to stop at a pub and ask for water - and had to deviate from the planned route and head home.
Two days later, proper evening meal no alcohol and a good nights sleep - early morning run for 1 hour - perfect.
All adds up to a lesson learnt and more experince for a novice!
Getting earlier..and faster?
For the first time this year I was out before 7am - I felt so guilty about missing Running Club last night!!
It was a beautiful morning, cold though. I really enjoyed the run [who can believe I actually said that!]..and it does start the whole day in a very positive way.
The Great North Run is now only 4 months away so I know I need to stay focused and on track -not difficult when I know I will be raising funds for such a good cause Birmingham Childrens Hospital Charityhttp://www.bch.org.uk/index.php . I will set up my Just Giving page in a months time, so hopefully you will all help me raise a nice sum to donate.
It was a beautiful morning, cold though. I really enjoyed the run [who can believe I actually said that!]..and it does start the whole day in a very positive way.
The Great North Run is now only 4 months away so I know I need to stay focused and on track -not difficult when I know I will be raising funds for such a good cause Birmingham Childrens Hospital Charityhttp://www.bch.org.uk/index.php . I will set up my Just Giving page in a months time, so hopefully you will all help me raise a nice sum to donate.
Breaking the 1 hour barrier -well almost
57 minutes....why oh why didn't I keep going another three minutes!!! - but I was pleased as I was faster than last time I ran the same route...so I must be improving!!
Efficient Technology Really Does Help
Thanks to www.satnavwarehouse.com my running is back on track - brilliant advice, thanks guys, I love my new running watch.
My runs this week have all gone well and thanks to keeping a constant check on my watch, a more consistent pace is emerging.
My runs this week have all gone well and thanks to keeping a constant check on my watch, a more consistent pace is emerging.
Confusing Data
Ok - my first 4 miler with the Running Club [don't ask!]
Plus my app didn't agree with Paul's watch - and we ran together.
According to my App I ran 6.25 miles..averaging 4.5 minute miles - impressive....
the reality was I ran 4 miles -averaging 11 minute miles - realistic!!!
Time to buy a running watch....www.thesatnavwarehouse.com/
Plus my app didn't agree with Paul's watch - and we ran together.
According to my App I ran 6.25 miles..averaging 4.5 minute miles - impressive....
the reality was I ran 4 miles -averaging 11 minute miles - realistic!!!
Time to buy a running watch....www.thesatnavwarehouse.com/
Marathon Success
At Running Club tonight there were celebrations for those who had completed the London Marathon...makes me feel stupid when worrying about a HALF marathon.
Everyone tells me I am on track with my training....hope so!
Everyone tells me I am on track with my training....hope so!
It Had To Be Done
My training 'app' was telling me today had to be an hour run. Still feeling flat after the Park Run, motivation not at its highest...so it was a miracle I got out there this morning - but I DID.
I felt better, and had parts where my breathing was great. Happier again!
I felt better, and had parts where my breathing was great. Happier again!
Not a Good one
We joined the Park Run at Walsall Arboretum...three times around the course to complete 5k.
Despite my enthusiasm - it was definitely my worst run to date. I failed to get into my stride and simply could not sort my breathing...I hated it!!!
http://www.parkrun.com/home
Despite my enthusiasm - it was definitely my worst run to date. I failed to get into my stride and simply could not sort my breathing...I hated it!!!
http://www.parkrun.com/home
All The Inspiration I Need...
Written by a parent of a patient at Birmingham Childrens Hospital, to those running the London Marathon this weekend....lump in my throat I feel that I should be making more effort...I'm only doing a half after all!!
“My 4 year old daughter has received life saving surgery at Birmingham Children’s Hospital for a rare cardiac condition. As well as that she has had numerous operations to correct displaced hips. Lara and countless other children and families benefit from your efforts on 22nd April and I can’t thank you enough. You BCH Marathon Runners are amazing! No one, not even the elite athletes, train for an event like this without some setbacks or problems. Don’t worry about the week when you were ill or the fact that you didn’t fit in that one last big run. The Marathon, like BCH, is about overcoming adversity. You’ve got the miles in your legs and the will to succeed. Your body is the strongest, most miraculous possession you will ever own and your cause is inspirational. You’ll do it!”
“My 4 year old daughter has received life saving surgery at Birmingham Children’s Hospital for a rare cardiac condition. As well as that she has had numerous operations to correct displaced hips. Lara and countless other children and families benefit from your efforts on 22nd April and I can’t thank you enough. You BCH Marathon Runners are amazing! No one, not even the elite athletes, train for an event like this without some setbacks or problems. Don’t worry about the week when you were ill or the fact that you didn’t fit in that one last big run. The Marathon, like BCH, is about overcoming adversity. You’ve got the miles in your legs and the will to succeed. Your body is the strongest, most miraculous possession you will ever own and your cause is inspirational. You’ll do it!”
Staying Focussed
Sitting in a Birmingham Childrens Hospital Charities Fundraising meeting this morning reminded me why I am doing this training/running
The Charity has achieved so much - BUT there is still so much more to be done - and it all costs money - time to get back out there....
The Charity has achieved so much - BUT there is still so much more to be done - and it all costs money - time to get back out there....
Through the 1 hour barrier
Not sure why - but I decided that today was as good as time as any to run for 1 hour- well to be honest, my training App told me that I must run 1 hour tomorrow. I don't like being told I have to do it...so went a day early by choice
It was a cold but beautiful morning - and I have to say I LOVED IT!! No bad after effects - well no worse than usual...
It was a cold but beautiful morning - and I have to say I LOVED IT!! No bad after effects - well no worse than usual...
This is How It's Done
We went up to Wilmslow to watch my daughter-in-law Sabrina take part in her first half-marathon. It was an un-seasonally hot day [not warm- hot!].
We saw her safely across the start line -and then took up our position to watch the field come home.
First across the line, not even breaking sweat...a training run for the London Marathon and setting a time for Olympic qualification!!!
But we were even more impressed by Sabrina...2 hours 11 minutes -FANTASTIC especially in that heat
We saw her safely across the start line -and then took up our position to watch the field come home.
First across the line, not even breaking sweat...a training run for the London Marathon and setting a time for Olympic qualification!!!
But we were even more impressed by Sabrina...2 hours 11 minutes -FANTASTIC especially in that heat
Joining the Club
In an effort to look as though I am serious...I have agreed to join a running club.
This will be different for me as I am a solitary runner..although I am informed that there will be no chance of 'solitary' on the Great North Run !
Everyone made me feel very welcome...and I went out with the 'lappers'...not a rude group-but the chance to do mile laps to get used to pace etc.
I really enjoyed it-and was pleased to be in the final three left standing/running. As usual I did stop a few times BUT was given the answer to my breathing issues...I need to talk more. Some would think this impossible...but I'll give it a go.
This will be different for me as I am a solitary runner..although I am informed that there will be no chance of 'solitary' on the Great North Run !
Everyone made me feel very welcome...and I went out with the 'lappers'...not a rude group-but the chance to do mile laps to get used to pace etc.
I really enjoyed it-and was pleased to be in the final three left standing/running. As usual I did stop a few times BUT was given the answer to my breathing issues...I need to talk more. Some would think this impossible...but I'll give it a go.
Cool Runnings
Think I should have worn my hat & gloves for this morning's run!....worth getting cold to see the sun in the mist though.[ Yes, I do know I shouldn't be stopping to take photos]
Off on the wrong foot
The 'go-faster' socks arrived.
However, I failed to notice they are marked with a 'R' and a 'L' - maybe that's why I didn't run faster?????
However, I failed to notice they are marked with a 'R' and a 'L' - maybe that's why I didn't run faster?????
Thunderbirds Are Go
Well I took Matt's advice...Zen breathing [difficult to explain and do] worked - as did running with Thunderbird hands.
AND-for the first time EVER workman shouted "Looking Good - Go For It Girl" - I know it's not 'PC'-but it felt REALLY good!!
AND-for the first time EVER workman shouted "Looking Good - Go For It Girl" - I know it's not 'PC'-but it felt REALLY good!!
More Advice
Advice from daughter-in-law; get some 'go-faster socks' = ordered
Advice from hairdresser; try Zen breathing and run like a Thunderbird - don't ask
Advice from hairdresser; try Zen breathing and run like a Thunderbird - don't ask
Sadistic Trainer Makes An Appearance
AM; Received an e-mail from Ben 'suggesting' the Midlands Fun Run [June] for us to enter.
I looked at the route to see 'Cardiac Hill'...doesn't sound like fun to me? - but I entered anyway
PM; another e-mail from Ben - 'suggesting' the Lichfield 10k..the week before the GNR.
I enquire as to whether this would be wise - surely we should be resting?
I am informed that this is not the case-rather that it would be a good opportunity to check our race pace!!! - so I've entered
I looked at the route to see 'Cardiac Hill'...doesn't sound like fun to me? - but I entered anyway
PM; another e-mail from Ben - 'suggesting' the Lichfield 10k..the week before the GNR.
I enquire as to whether this would be wise - surely we should be resting?
I am informed that this is not the case-rather that it would be a good opportunity to check our race pace!!! - so I've entered
Thank You Ryan Air
I don't often feel the need to thank Ryan Air - but their limit on luggage for a weekend in Dublin meant I couldn't take my trainers - so a weekend off.
However, while on the open-top bus tour -I saw so many runners out there I began to feel jealous [this can't be happening to me!]
However, while on the open-top bus tour -I saw so many runners out there I began to feel jealous [this can't be happening to me!]
Keep Calm
Ben & Sue have secured places in the second ballot. While this is good - it does give me a renewed sense of the need to train - Ben is going to push me , I just know it!!
Thanks for the T-Shirt Rachel....It works
Get Your Act Together
Any Excuse
Winter weather - frost and icy paths hinder the training -or put another way...
it was a good excuse not to get out there. Plus my mum died and I've sort of lost my way
it was a good excuse not to get out there. Plus my mum died and I've sort of lost my way
Running with Purpose
So with a place secured, the training has to start....and if I'm doing it, I will be doing it for more than my personal fitness....
I am Vice-Chairman of Birmingham Children's Hospital Charities [http://www.bch.org.uk/] - so the decision was easy...and as I start [or possibly finish] every training run I have to think about those poorly children - and suddenly it's all worth it.
I am Vice-Chairman of Birmingham Children's Hospital Charities [http://www.bch.org.uk/] - so the decision was easy...and as I start [or possibly finish] every training run I have to think about those poorly children - and suddenly it's all worth it.
Good and Bad News
Paul, Ben & Sue all received e-mails notifying them that they had not been successful in the first ballot. I heard nothing - but presumed I was in the same position.
Then I checked my credit-card statement...entry money had been taken.
A phone call confirmed it - I WAS IN!!
My supportive friends and hubby all promised to cheer from the sidelines [with drink in hand] thanks guys
Then I checked my credit-card statement...entry money had been taken.
A phone call confirmed it - I WAS IN!!
My supportive friends and hubby all promised to cheer from the sidelines [with drink in hand] thanks guys
Running to Diet - where it all began
It started when I decided to diet for my son's wedding [ so it's his fault then!!]I hate gyms so decided to go running....
I wasn't going far at first - but built up to 3 miles x 3 times a week - and I lost the weight, got fit, and come the day of the wedding I looked and felt good.
BUT after the wedding - friends [Ben & Sue] suggested I set a new goal to keep fit...now wine may have been taken, and in fairness they did opt to enter the ballot for the Great North Run with me...so names [now including hubby Paul] were entered into the ballot
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