The London Marathon never fails to inspire me. As experienced endurance athletes we can be a bit blasé about the marathon, “been there done that” sort of attitude. Whilst I do not have much time for the publicity seekers, there are a lot of people who really do dig deep, its easy for us, we train, we are fit, and we have done it before. Watching some of the runners cross the line you get a sense of what they have been through - physical, yes - but more often emotional, clutching their medals as a tangible reminder of their adventure. Courage is a great asset for an athlete, whether you are at the sharp end or just trying to get to the finish. The winner is not always the bravest and the brave keep on coming each year to inspire me!
The season is in full swing now with racing most weekends to suit everyone’s tastes. If you are struggling to find some speed on the bike, try one of the many local evening club time trials, no need to pre enter, just turn up and ride, most are about £2. A great way for some quality bike training, and a chance to check out your position, and aero-dynamics in a live race situation. Mostly 10 miles but there are a few 25 mile races, I find just pinning the number on gives me that lift that I cannot always find, when just training and chasing your “minute man” and being chased is great motivation.
To shave or not to shave (your legs)? That is the question and the answer is of course, yes. It looks better, feels great in the pool, is easier to clean if you crash and facilitates massage. Hairy legs and bikes just don’t go together. I have just seen someone who has been waxed, I promised him no names!
A very good friend and very experienced triathlete, cyclist and runner, you name it he has done it all, recently did the Devises to Westminster kayak race, 126 miles down the Thames, through the night, a very demanding event. Even with all his experience, he did not take on enough fluids; he had the presence of mind to realize he was in trouble, so he got himself off the water. However he still spent 24hrs in hospital dehydrated and very low in salts. He is fine now and already planning next years attempt, he never did like DNF against his name. Get your carbo drink inside you and get it in early!!
Finally back to London, I have been seeing elite athlete Steve Way (Bournemouth ac) for regular massage as part of his training plan, an 18 week programmer that started back in December. There have been a few niggles, a few wobbly moments, a few self doubts, sometimes it felt like I was doing the training for him, he stuck at it though, and was rewarded with 17th place in 2.19.37 and possible selection for the Commonwealth Games later this year. Yes, he looked nervous on the start line but he was confident and that confidence came from consistent, honest training and hard work. It works for age groupers as well as elite athletes, so have fun out there but make sure you are trying your best!
See you up the road
E D
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