Running 26.2 Miles

[eastlondonrunner]

Abbott Six Star World Marathon Champion!!

[eastlondonrunner]

[eastlondonrunner]

A day that deserves a race report.

Chicago 2019 was always going to be different. My injury woes for the last 18 months have been stubborn, ongoing, recurrent, persistent and non resolving. Plantar Fasciitis that required physio, an air boot, offloading on crutches, shockwave therapy, cortisone injections, surgery and more physio. At the start of May I was staring down the barrel of the gun in the aftermath of the surgery and I honestly believed the chance of lining up at the starting line of the Chicago marathon today was somewhere between zero and none!

Then came August, and I had just started running, so I decided to embark on a 9 week “nought” to “marathon” plan. I was realistic that this was little less from perfect, but this my reality and so times were second to my primary goal. Chicago would mark my 6th Marathon Major, and I’d achieve the accolade of joining the illustrious six star marathon majors finishers club. Yet 6 days into this 9 week plan my life turned upside down through a dramatic and unexpected twist, being the sudden loss of my mum. My rose tinted Chicago Marathon glasses turned a very dark grey, and the world as I knew it crumbled apart.

So, my 9 week plan turned to 6, and thereafter Chicago here I come. I somehow managed to get from Naught to 35k in training, but no smart training in the form of hill, speedwork, fartkek or tempo. As I lined up today in pen A, I felt like a fraud, like I was chancing my arm, and that I didn’t belong in the corral I had been assigned. But here I was, and this was my day to shine.

I’ve been on this 6 star finishers challenge since I completed the London marathon for the first time in 2009 (when it was just 5 Stars), and it accelerated thereafter when I ran New York, Berlin and Tokyo in 2013, 2014 and 2017. Now I had only Boston and Chicago to go. Entry for these a breeze, as I had guaranteed time entry, so I planed these for 2018, and 2019.

Those who recall, Boston was horrendous weather wise in 2018, and thereafter my injuries exploded, bringing me back to the start of this report.

For today, Sub 3.30 was my “A” goal. 3.30 to 4 hours was my “B” goal, and a walking finish in under 6.5 hours was my “C” goal. To my surprise, I managed keep on target of the sub 3.30 pace up to 30k, but thereafter the lack of base training, speedwork and endurance training raised its ugly head. Things began hurting, and hurting bad. My plan was to reach 40k and to walk the last 2.2k. That didn’t work. I got to 38k and I gave in. Time to walk. Then I got a shout from behind, “come on London” 6 stars, Congratulations”, and about my 100th fist pump of the day, as I had a bib on my back declaring to the world my 6 Star goal for today. And so I began to run again. SLOW, sore, reminiscing, sobbing, asking mum to help me. These 4K were a painful challenge both mentally and phyically. I continued to get slower, though not as slow as walking and I crossed the line in 3.35.36. An aggregate 6 World Marathon Majors time of just under 18 hours and 6 minutes. Average marathon time across the majors, 3:01. I’m sore, I’m gobsmacked at what I achieved today, and I’m elated with my World Marathon Majors achievement. In the face of adversity I did as best as I could today, and I was pretty chuffed with that. Oh, and the bragging rights with my 6 finishers medal is pretty cool stuff.

One last thought, as I lined up at the start of corral A today someone I was chatting too suggested I needed a new challenge now, before continuing to tell me how they had just completed “Comrades” this year. Hm, I thought to myself, I’ve never been to South Africa. But please don’t hold me to this though! Next on the agenda is a little more recovery.

[eastlondonrunner]

Boston Marathon 16th April 2018

4 weeks ago it seemed training was all on track. A 42km training run in 2.59, then I got I’ll (again). Winter 2017/8 really took its toll on me this year. I’ve had 7 doses of antibiotics since October, and this last chest infection 3 weeks ago, really was the worst. Having hardly run for 3 weeks, I was under no illusions for Boston.

We arrived early, Wednesday, and had shifted time zones very quickly. The B.A.A. 5k had been a breeze, but all along I knew how unwell I’d been. Stepping up from 5k on Saturday to 42k on Monday would be a tall ask, but that was what I asking asking of myself.

Today’s weather is well documented. Torrential downpours for more or less the whole marathon, together with headwinds of 40 mph+.

Arriving at Hopinkton at about 7:45 this morning on the bus, the toilet queue’s were empty given the rain. The only alternative was shelter in the sodden tents of the athletes village. Meantime, a loo dash required quick heel hop across the sodden grass in the hope of relieving one water need without taking on further water at foot level. Meantime, the snow aside the tents told a story of the previous 12 hours of weather. The challenge was to stay dry, warm and foot dry till 10am.

On call to our corrals, I was right up there, only to find the tarmac as puddle laden as the grass. A half mile walk to the start, unappeased by an additional letting loose of the wet stuff from en high.

At 10 we were off. My corral, 6 took a few minutes to cross the line, from which point Boston 2018 was actually under way. I had many doubts that I’d ever reach this point this morning.

The first 1/2 mile downhill, I held my nerve and clocked the 1st km bang on target. But something was wrong. My quads were tight.

For the 1st 10k I continued to stick to plan. 4:05 to 4:10 per km. for the first 10km this seemed alright. Then the heavens above opened some more. “Good god’, really, More?”.

From here I was really doubting my race plan. I knew I’d not run further than 16k in that last 4 weeks, and my brain was already questioning the logic of 42k. From here on in my run became one thing only, and that was a question about damage limitation. Already I was asking myself, should I walk, when shall I walk, where shall I walk? I mean, Demons, and not even 1/4 into the run.

Here I decided my target was to reach 13.1 miles, then I’d walk the 2nd half. From now on in, I was counting the Kms! 10, 11, 12, .... 15, 16, 17. Still not even half way. God help me. At km 20, there were the girls of Wellesley college, with their “kiss me if you’re hot” signs. They did give me a boost, even if I did think to myself “Sorry girls, barking and wrong tree”.

Soon after came the 1/2 way point. This was not welcome relief. I mean, everyone knows when running 26.2 that the first 13.1 should be easy. Why oh god am I feeling this way?

From 13.1 miles I started to balance the distance run, against the distance to to be run, and challenged myself to reach 16 miles without stopping. And so I did. Somehow. Another torrential downpour. By now the 3rd or 4th to add to the seasonally uncaristically torrential rain already above head.

Miles 13 to 16 were slow, tough, and felt just brutal. I reached my lowest moments here. From 16, my challenge was to reach 19, and Heartbreak Hill, can I do that. 19 turned to 20, and outside a church I saw a sign “Congratulations, you have made it to the top of Heartbreak Hill”. This is where I turned into a blubbering wreck. Crying into the rain, sobbing to my hearts content.

Some downhill now. My plan revised to “make the 35km mats” from there I’ll walk the last 7 k. Mile 20 turned 21. The 35k mats turned to mile 22. Hold on I thought, I might even keep running (SLOWLY) to mile 23, and I did. For the first time in this race, despite getting slower, I gained confidence with the remaining miles ticked off. When 22 turned to 23, I didn’t even think “just a parkrun”. I could still only think, ok, 24 next. The 24 mile marker turned to the 40km mats quickly, and yet I was still preforming some form of running motion. Mile 25 and we were on the 5k route from Saturday. Just a mile to go, but oh, such a long mile to go. Aright, a left, Lance shouts (did I hear him?). Boylston street. Finish in sight, but oh, such a long way off. This final stretch dragged on forever, but I kept running. Somehow I did it. I got slow, dreadfully slower, but despite the demons, I ran. I ran to the very end. I did not walk. Today’s achievement was just that. Not walking!

Medals, heat blanket, water, power bar, baggage claim took forever. Especially with my now baby steps. Bag reclaimed. Blubbering, crying. Unable to walk. Shivering and eventually assistance came in the form of a wheelchair. Medics took me to the warming buses, with their heaters on. A place where I continued to cry, dried off. Pulled my trackie on, and built up the courage to face the outside world once again, eventually.

Boston 2018, you and your weather were brutal. You broke me, despite being broken before I started. These Maraton things are getting tougher. I need a burger and beer!

[eastlondonrunner]

Tokyo Marathon 26th February 2017

f I were to describe Tokyo in a single word, it would be 'Mad', but in a good way. From bowing to everyone, for anything, to smoking indoors as you are not allowed to smoke on the street. Drinks vending machines on every corner and knitted seat covers in the taxis. Then there are the lights and advertising. Mayhem!

The Tokyo 'Big sight' for the expo was used as a trial run to learn the metro and mentally log the logistics for navigation to the start of the marathon.

Marathon morning went like clockwork. Alarm, Breakfast, Metro, Tokyo Government Buildings, Gate 1. I'm here, and it's 7:45. 1 hour 25 to go. Loads of time. Then I saw the toilet que. No championship luxury anymore. Time to spend only one last penny, bag drop and rush to the starting block. This haunted me, as I'm kinda used to the 2-10 nervous pit stops before start of any run.

Though still a bit chilly in the shade of the Government Buildings, the morning was perfect for runners, being sunny and still. It positively warmed up once we were off and into the sunshine! Garmin set, go.

The start was crowded. Massively so. I was at jogging pace when my Garmin bleeped 1km after 3:21. I guess the signal was bouncing from pillar to post amongst the sky scrapers. I knew from the off I could not count on my watch. I had to revert to gold old fashioned checking the 'time elapsed' at each KM marker & estimating time to the next to track progress. That only works if you spot the markers of course, which were not draped with balloon arches across the road to spot from miles adrift.

By the 2nd k, the inevitable came calling. I knew I had to give into the urge, but unlike Paula, use the porta-loos. Relief was joyful.

Crowds en route were muted and polite, as you would expect in the wonderfully hospitable Japanese way. More polite clapping than cheers.

The separation of runners for the 10k race began shortly after the 8k mark. I was jealous thinking about how Lance would be nearly finished at this point, but I have another 34k to go. Latter I learnt that Lance had the equal but opposite envy. #marathon.... #next?

By the 16th k, something was screaming at me from my right shoe. It didn't feel like a stone, and my shoe felt tight. The strategy of 'Keep running and block it out it out of mind'' seemed to work.

I had decided to tick off the 5k markers in my head, nearly forgetting after 20k would be the 1/2 way point. It was a relief to pass there in just sub 1:30. My first 2-3 km were behind pace and I had already abandoned hope of passing 1/2 in this time. I guess the aggressive catch up did just that, and caught up with me later on.

20-30k I seemed to stay on track. I always consider the 32k point to be the ELR Water station, but after the 30k mats, the kms seemed further apart and much slower to tick off. Water stations become obstacle courses, and discarding of cups of energy drinks suddenly took on a whole new format. Chuck the unwanted drink in any direction whatsoever, chuck paper cup at ground. London spoils us with bottles with sports caps.

I managed to miss the 35km mats. Well, I mean, I ran over them, but I didn't log this mentally till I saw the 36k sign. That relief was short lived. After 37k began the countdown markers. 5 to go, 4 to go... From here I told myself, "only a parkrun to go", but this was a toughie parkrun, and I haven't brought my barcode!

In the last 5k I was still passing a few, but being passed by more. I could see many casualties, wobblers, hobblers, walkers and stoppers all cramped up and trying to make the finish. I knew by now I was getting slower with every step. My own damage limitation was limited to not walking, so that in itself was my achievement.

The final km was agonisingly long, and the finish itself concealed around one final bend. No massive finish gantry, just two temporary TM2017 towers, one either side of the road & the mats to signal stop running. Job done. Shoes off and I'm walking the finish gantry in my socks. No evidence as yet to the blister lurking on my right foot, but welcome relief to be shoeless.

On finishing, everyone was made to feel like a king. The volunteers all in a row, clapping politely, bowing, congratulating, energy drink, towel over shoulders, bag, water, banana, biscuit, sandwich, more clapping, bowing, then directed to collect the finishers medal.

An experience like no other marathon ever before, but a memorable and enjoyable one throughout. Many new moons will have to appear before I forget my experience in Tokyo. I will definitely plan another trip back, without a marathon attached in order to explore the delights of Tokyo and Japan more fully.

[eastlondonrunner]

Virgin Money London Marathon 13th April 2014

13th April 2014. A day to remember, or a day that will never be forgotten? The next 12 hours will tell their story, I thought to myself, as I contemplated getting out of bed. It was 5 am, the early morning bird song had begun outside my window, and although already awake, I had had an early night, and a good sleep till then. This whole marathon morning thing is beginning to feel like second nature. I didn't feel too nervous and was looking forward to the challenge ahead. The last few weeks training had gone well, taper was perfect, and having relieved myself of any pressure of achieving the same goal as 2013, I felt like it was going to be a good day. One where my priority was to run, and to enjoy the Virgin Money London Marathon. I walked to Wanstead leisure centre, taking in Wanstead park en-route, admiring the tranquility as the early morning sun had yet to dispel the low mist laying on top of the grass. The only company I had during my commute were the ducks and geese who were feasting in the dew laden parkland. I felt like I was Mary Poppins, in a picture perfect life. Yes, today was going to be a good day. With my spoons of sugar (Lucozade Sport Gels) tucked into my shorts pocket, and my bag packed full of of everything possibly needed for the pre race start zone, from loo roll for the toilets to the legendary black bin bags for keeping warm, I congratulated myself on my perfect preparation for race morning. Everyone arrived early for the coach, which we all know by now was more than can be said about the coach itself. My picture perfect Mary Poppins life had turned into the nightmare. In a whirlwind I had been transported from London, to the lad of Oz. The wicked witch had scuppered our plans, and we had to follow the central line and DLR to the start of the marathon. Safety in numbers, and as the lion, tin man and scarecrow joined me in the form of my fellow abandoned East London Runners, we navigated our own way to the marathon start. Though nervous because of the ticking clock, the company was great, and the chit chat with my compatriots passed the time quickly, arriving to our start zone slightly after 9am. Never was I more glad of the revised 10am start. Having become separated from Euan en route through Greenwich park, Ava and I were re-united with him beside the baggage truck at the championship start. We had found our way; we were back in London, and we were ready for what lay ahead. 26.2 miles of the best marathon in the world, through the best city in the world, dramas forgotten and Marathon ready. At the strike of 10, we were off, and across the start line within seconds. My race plan was to start slow, and likely get slower (than last year). For the first couple of miles I kept the young Brown in my sights, but stuck to my own pace as the only race I was running today was a personal one with myself. As the blue route merged with the red, I was convinced I'd meet Patrick, or Mark coming through from their start. I kept my eyes peeled for them, but to no avail. The crowds on the blue start seemed sparse compared to those I remembered from the red last year so I was glad the routes had now merged, and that the supporters had increased. The atmosphere was increasing, so was the temperature, but for now I was feeling good. The Cutty Sark is always a highlight, with noise en-mass, and the knowledge 1/4 job done. Easy! From here my thoughts turned to my spectators, the first of whom I hoped to see before the hour mark, but I didn't know exactly where. Needles to say they were missed. Mental target #2 was Tower Bridge, and the 20k mats, but well in advance of which I was given a boost by being caught up on by Euan, who somehow managed to appear from behind me. 'Toilet stop' he declared, and nothing more needed to be said. We ran the last couple of miles on the south side of the river together, crossing Tower Bridge and right onto the highway where Lance was waiting with my folks. With joy, I saw them all, and they saw me. I waved, and continued with Euan onwards towards the halfway point. Entering the second half of the race, I was still feeling good. To my pleasant surprise I was keeping pace with Euan, though I believe it was more a case of the smarter Euan using myself to pace him slower, than me keeping pace with him. 13 rolled up to 14, then 15. Euan started to drift ahead again, and by now I was starting to feel pain. No matter how many times I have run, the marathon itself always throws up it challenges. This time it was the twinges in my calfs. They started about the 14th mile, and were followed by tightness in my left leg. I was convinced no matter what, I was going to suffer with the dreaded cramp. Trying to adjust my running stance, the twinges continued for the next couple of miles. 'Run though', I told myself, followed by 'Can I run though?' I asked myself. By now the miles were hurting, and the compensation in stance had transferred the pain from my calfs, to my toes in my right foot. Time to compensate again. As I navigated the docklands, I had to focus the mind, and concentrate on every step. I was not looking forward to the mile 20 water station. I'm meant to look like this is a breeze. ELR can't see me looking like this! Left leg, both calfs, and now right foot all hurting. No way I'll manage a smile with all this going on. As I entered Poplar High street, the drama playing in my mind, was as intense as the drama taking toll on my body. I recall Grant cheering on with his whistle, and a lack of PA from the fire brigade. Then there was the confusion of some fire bridge red tops on the right. Were ELR now on the left? Calfs, leg, toes, Grant, no PA, red on right, right on left? I kept right, and tried to allow myself to look for further friendly ELR faces to see me through. It was all a bit of a whirlwind blur, which today confused instead of comforted. As I departed the water station, the delirium subsided. I had heard some cheers, goodness knows whom from, but I did allow these to lift my spirit, and I began to refocus the mind. Upon returning to the Highway, approaching back towards Tower Bridge, I was not lucky enough to see my family again, though they yelled out to me, I ran right past them. By now the pain was showing on my face, as well as passing from the toes on my right foot, to the toes on my left foot. At lest the twinges in my calfs have abated, but time to adjust my running stance again. 7k to go. I knew I was slowing by now, but I had managed to regain my senses. I was taking water at every water station, and squirting my calfs, and maybe having a sip for myself. Lorcan seemed to float past me as he politely said hello while pacing through the tunnel on toward the embankment. The last couple of miles were tough, but as I crossed the 40k mats, I knew I still had enough pace to run sub 2:50. Now it was time to dig deep, and find every bit of reserve I had. Go............., but I couldn't speed up. As I past St. Stephens Tower, Parliament Sq, and onto Birdcage Walk, only experience was carrying me through. Pleasantly the 800m changed to 600m and then 400m to go quicker than I had expected. Buckingham Palace, 365 yards to go, then right onto the mall. The sight of the finish gantry, and 200m to go, I don't know where it came from, but my legs allowed me a sprint finish, easily passing 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more runners on the home straight. Over. Done. 2:48:11 Only one thing left to do, and that was cry. The tears rolled down my face, as I proclaimed to myself, 'Never Again'. This fecking marathon malarkey is hard work, and VMLM 2014 was the toughest so far. Aren't these meant to get easier with experience? After collecting my medal, and walking past my baggage truck without collecting my bag, luckily the baggage marshal was more alert than myself, and called me back to them. Thereafter I found Euan propping up a tree, looking somewhat as I felt. Hopefully though he felt a little better than I. 13th April 2014, a day that will never be forgotten.

[eastlondonrunner]

Virgin Money London Marathon 13th April 2014 (Marathon 7)

[eastlondonrunner]

Flora London Marathon 26th April 2009

My story

After many months hard training involving Sunday long runs, speed sessions, hill training & tempo runs, on Sunday 26th April 2009 I embarked on my first Marathon, The Flora London Marathon 2009!

My Time: 3:03:54!

My Race Stastics: Position Overall 1213; Male 1148; Age group 680!

Will I do it again: Of Course! I have already entered the ballot for 2010!

The Good News, I beat my lower end target of Sub 3:15. The Bad News, I missed my higher end target of Sub 3 hours by just 3 minutes & 54 seconds. With no sign of the earlier forecast rain, instead, with the sun beating down all morning, it was a tough run, but I managed to stick to my target pace for near on 23-24 miles. It was the last 2 miles that really hurt. Before that, I was bang on target for that 3 hour goal, but I lost 2 minutes a mile over each of the last 2 miles. I had struck the dreaded "Wall". Somehow I managed to keep on running and struggle through to the finishing line. Something inside me kept me going. That something was your support. Your support not only for me, but also for Refuge! I sincerely wish to thank you all for your words of encouragement, and especially for your donations to my fundraising cause. Refuge have asked that I pass on their gratitude too!

My Charity:

Again, may I say a HUGE "Thank You" to everyone for all your support. I am extremely grateful. All donations received are making a huge difference to Refuge & the work they can provide.

Refuge are a wonderful & deserving charity. They provide education, practical advice, support, counselling and safe-houses, as well as working incredibly hard to influence the public agenda, rebuild lives and to campaign for legislation to ensure the safety of women and children. They rely heavily on the fundraising support gained from people like ourselves through events such as the London Marathon. I hope you will be able to support me as I raise funds for their cause by running the London Marathon on 26th April 2009.

For more information on the wonderful work that Refuge Provide, please visit their site: www.refuge.org.uk

Your donation will not only be vital as I strive to reach my fundraising target, but it will be a wonderful form of support as I undertake the challenge of training and preparing for the event on 26th April 2009.

-----------------------------------------

After 12 months Preperation, 4 months Hard Training, 2 pairs of shoes, a dodgy chest infection & about 650 miles in Training since the start of the year, tomorrow it's the BIG One, "The Flora London Marathon 2009". I cannot believe how quickly the time has passed since I commited myself to running the marathon. At first it all seemed very daunting, but, as you can see below I have trained hard, and now I am looking forward to the race itself! At times it seemd all I did was either Run, Eat or Sleep as I prepared for the Marathon. Your support has been fantastic, especially on the days when I have felt like "I've had enough". With the training now over, I cannot wait for Tomorrow!

Wish me luck!

Ciaran.

The story towards my first marathon: Past Results & Training Diary:

Tuesday 21st April 2009 Final Speed Training Session. At least now i know i can get to the Start line Quickly if I oversleep on Sunday! -

Sunday 19th April 2009 - Final Long run, but with the taper, this weeks 10 Miles really just felt like a walk in the park! Next Sunday is the BIG One.

Easter Sunday 12th April 2009 - 18-20 Miles run in 2 Hours 30. The Final Major run of my training plan. And so the Taper continues.... Next Sunday only 12 miles to contend with.

Sunday 5th April 2009 - I decided to concentrate on "Time on my feet" this morning, Running, Sprinting & Jogging, completing 21 miles in 3 & 1/2 Hours. And so the TAPER begins...

Sunday 29th March 2009 - Bloody Cold this morning, and with the clocks going forward an hour, hard to get out out of bed. Thankfully i had a running partner planned and did a 10 mile hilly run through Epping Forest! Its a good run. I could definately feel the after effects on Monday!

Sunday 22nd March 2009 - Good Week of training. Completed 1st 3 hour run on Saturday (Approx 20 miles), followed by 8 mile recovery run on Sunday. 5 Weeks to go.

Sunday 15th March 2009 - Silverstone 1/2 Marathon - What a cracker! Finished 62nd out of 10,000, in a time of 1hour, 23minutes & 32 seconds! A new Personal Best!

Sunday 08th March 2009 - Back on track! I have been easing myself back into training after my week off, and have just finished the week with a 20 mile Run, completed in 2:22:00 - 7:06/mile. Bang on my Desired Marathon pace!

Sunday 01st March 2009 - Roding Valley 1/2 marathon. Another Race that didn't happen! - Dissapointed as I am, I decided not to run this race as I am recovering form a chest infection this week. I hope to get back into training on monday!

Sunday 22nd February 2009 - 20 mile Training Run, completed in 2 hours, 28 minutes - Longest Run to date. I'm very pleased with the achievement. 9 weeks till the marathon, so feelimg confident about my training plan!

Tuesday 17th February 2009 - Hill Training. This is HARD Work... 12 times up the Forest Road to Waterworks Corner & 12 times Jog back down for recovery. Knackered, but I'm sure there is reasoning in the madness somewhere!

Friday 13th February 2009 - Training Run - Long Run. 18 miles! Great Training Run, just edged on a little frurther than last week! Feeling more confident about the marathon itself!

Sunday 08th February 2009 - Training Run - Sunday Long Run. 17 miles! Longest Run to Date - Great Training Run! Feeling Very Good!

Sunday 25th January 2009 - Training Run - Sunday Long Run. 15.5 miles in 120 Minutes. Good Training run! Feeling good!

Sunday 18th January 2009 - Les Witton Memorial 10 Mile Road Race Dartford. This was the first time that I competed in a 10 mile race. I found it to be a tough Race. The course was a challenging, undulating course, but I was delighted with my finishing time - 69 minutes & 10 Seconds! A personal Best, as it was my first 10 mile run!

Sunday 14th December 2008 - Bedford 1/2 Marathon - 91 Minutes 25 seconds. Pleased with time, but struggled the last 3 miles home. Sore knees, so going to rest for a few weeks!

Friday 14th November 2008 - Run to work 9 Miles - 60 Minutes 45 seconds. Very pleased with time.

Friday 07th November - 14.00 miles Exactly - Longest run to date, at a good steady speed - completed in 1 hour 45 minutes.

Sunday 02nd November 2008 - Rainforest 10K @ Finsbury Park. Completed in 41 Mins 12 seconds. Not a PB, but a good time on a very hilly route!

24th October 2009 - At last, I managed to brush asside the doubts and ran to work. 9.5 Miles / 15.29Km. Took 63 Minutes & 40 Seconds. I actually quite enjoyed the run to work and will definately try and make this part of my regular running schedule!

26th September 2009 - Friday 26th September Grand Finale of the Inter Agency 5K Challenge @ Regent Park (Creative Agencies vs Media Agencies) - 19 Minutes & 23 Seconds - What a cracker to end the season on! Despite still recovering from my cycle accident, I have ended the season on "TOP FORM"

21st September 2008 - New Forest 1/2 Marathon 21.1K - The Race that didn't Happen! Unfortunately I had to withdraw from this race! Due to a cycle accident on 10th September, I am injured and therefore was unfit to compete. I am devestated at missing this event, but look forward to competing next year instead! I am resting well and hope to be able to Jog the Inter Ageny 5K Grand Finale this Friday 26th September. Keep your fingers Crossed. Thanks

31st August 2008 - Nike Race the World 10K @ Wembley Stadium. Completed corse in 39minutes & 45seconds. Came 157th out of 20,000 in London, 2282nd out of 1,000,000 in the world! Absolutely Delighted! Very, Very Happy!!

17th August 2008 - 1st 1/2 Marathon Completed - Hackney Marshes UFDance Runners Quest 1/2 Marathon - Time 86minutes & 46 Seconds - Fantastic time. Very Pleased!

01st August 2008 - 16.5K completed in training in 80 minutes. Delighted with the distance covered. Good Long Run, but taken at a gentle easy pace. Looking forward to building on this Stamina. 2 weeks till I tackle my first 1/2 Marathon, so this has put me in good stead!

20th July 2008 - Great London 10K - Completed course in 40 minutes and 5 seconds. Race was 500 meters longer than the Blaydon Rece in June, and completed in the same time! Very happy with result. Aiming to crack the 40 minute barrier next time!

09th June 2008 - Blaydon Rece Newcastle to Blaydon 5.9miles 9.5km - Completed course in 40 minutes & 5 seconds. Delighted with preformance.

30th May 2008 - 2nd Inter-Agency 5K run in Regent Park. I found it hard to find my pace, but happy with finishing time - 20minutes & 10seconds

14th May 2008 - Happy that I have rested injure, and ready to ease (more carefully) back into full training.

05th May 2008 - 30 Mins, 6.95K, nursing pain in calf Muscle, decided to rest for at least one week!

02nd May 2008 - 60 Mins, 13.85K, Great Run. Very happy with achievement! - Aim to improve by running 14K in 60Mins!

28th April 2008 - 50 Mins, 11.63K, Making Steady Progress. Verry happy.

21st April 2008 - 40 Mins, 9.25K, Steady Progress, building on Stamina, Aim to increase Long Run to 50 Mins.

18th April 2008 - 40 Mins, 9.15K, Marked improvement on first run. Happy with Speed and distance covered. Building up Stamina.

14th April 2008 - 40 Mins, 9.10K, Great First run! Never run for 40 Mins before - Very Happy with Achievement.

[eastlondonrunner]

Virgin London Marathon 25th April 2010

2010 was the year that I suffered terribly with injury as I trained for the marathon. Glut med tendinitis had struck, and struck hard, forcing me into a complete stop. Even if I wanted too, when I tried, I simply couldn’t run more than 4-5 steps, and I would be in agony. Having missed 4 weeks training in March due to this injury, I was then also knocked off my bike! Crikey! What is God trying to tell me? But I’m a stubborn old fool, and by hook, and by crook, I managed to get myself to the start line. Once there, I had Roberto for company. We dropped our bags into the baggage truck, and started to warm up, during which, the heavens opened, and it started to pour. Roberto and I sought refuge in a changing tent for about 10 minutes, and the rain quickly passed. The storm may have been over for now, but I really was not feeling confident about the day ahead of me. Given everything in the preceding weeks, I re-evaluated my targets, and decided that I was simply going to enjoy the day, and to give it my best shot depending on how I felt.

When the race started, I managed to find my pace and stick to it, crossing the halfway marker in 1:30:27. The year previous, I was feeling great at this point, but this year I knew already that it was going to be difficult to keep this pace on track. My legs were already telling me that they were tired, and yet I knew I still had another 13.1 miles to go! How could I cope? The miles continued to tick by, but by Mile 16, the demons in my head were telling me I needed to walk. I pushed on at this stage, pushing the demons aside, and continued to run. Mile 20 became my target. Knowing that East London Runners were manning that water station, I knew there would be great support there. Seeing the ELR guys at the Mile 20 Water Station was an incredible boost, giving me a surge of energy as I raced through! ‘Keep smiling’, I told myself, ‘don’t let anyone see my pain!’

On departing from the 20 mile marker, I knew it was only 10K to go, but it was a long, and hard 10k. My pace was slowing, and my legs were really hurting by now. I was homeward bound, but this would be the hardest 10K of my life.

As I returned back past tower bridge, and the Tower of London, ahead onto the embankment, it was here that I managed to see Lance! Well, he saw me first, and screamed and yelled so loudly that eventually my ears tuned to his voice, and we caught sight of each other! Fantastic! The previous year, I ran through mile 17, and missed all my supporters, to the extent that I ran through, finished the marathon, collected my bag, called Lance, to find he, and my supporters were still waiting for me to pass mile 17. I was so happy that this year, 2010, the same did not repeat itself.

As I continued past mile 25, past Big Ben, and onto Birdcage Walk, I knew I was close to last years time, but I also knew ‘not close enough’. This year I decided to try and absorb more of the atmosphere as I passed Buckingham Palace, into the Mall, and eventually home. I didn’t beat last year’s time, but came incredibly close on 3:05:38. Having since discovered that my time qualifies me for ‘Good for age’ Entry in 2011, I’ve been on cloud nine ever since!”

[eastlondonrunner]

Dublin Marathon 31st October 2011

<p>5mile-00:32:08 half-01:22:53 30k-02:07:42</p> Ciaran in action during the race. Ciaran’s Race Report. This Halloween, Bank Holiday Monday 31st October I returned to the Emerald Isle for the National Lottery Dublin Marathon. Being my 3rd attempt at the Marathon distance, I was sure the time was right for me to achieve the sub 3 hour goal that had so far eluded me, though having run London twice, I knew anything could go wrong. I was under no illusions that taking on this challenge was going to be easy, but my goal was set, the race, flights and hotel booked. Dublin 2011, ‘here I come’.

On race morning, I received my early morning alarm call from the hotel ‘Good morning, you have requested an alarm call’ said the recorded voice, ‘we hope you have a really nice day!’ If only the computer knew what was in store I thought to myself. I got up straight away, and after a long hot shower to warm the blood, down to breakfast, where it seemed everyone was already up, dressed in shorts and trainers, scraping at the dregs of the porridge from the breakfast buffet. I had my turn, and then returned to my room to pick up my race bag, and made my way from the hotel to the start, a little under 2 miles away.

Conditions were perfect for running. Cool, but not too cool. A little breezy, but not too breezy. overcast, (with rain forecast) but dry for now. I dropped off my bag, found my start zone, had a brief warm up, and made my way towards the front of the zone. The race was to be set off in 3 waves, with my zone, the Orange start being the first at 9:50.

Upon starting, it seemed to me as though the pace was slow, as waited for my Garmin to bleep with my 1km time. When it did bleep, to my horror it read 3:15! Despite trying to slow down, the second and third kms continued to pass to quick. A mistake that was to take its toll later in the race. Shortly after the 3rd km, I managed to settle into a pace that was in keeping with my target. The gates To Phoenix Park were a welcome sight, where the race continued for more kilometres than I had expected, exiting the park around the 14th km point!

It was in Phoenix Park where the first chip mats ware located at the 5 mile marker. According to the results website this was the 10km point. An Irish 10k it would seem, being in fact 8k. I was confused, and hoped this wasn’t to be a signal of ‘Irish miles’ to come.

Not knowing the Dublin area well, mentally I kept trying to imagine where I would be at on the same point on the London marathon route. Mile 6 = Greenwich. 12.5 = Tower Bridge. 20 = ELR water station, etc.

Upon reaching the half way point, all was well! Half split was 1:22:53, and i was feeling good? It was shortly after that I had my first real low, however I managed to hook in with a group of runners I’d been around and close too from the start, and my low turned to a high. Things seemed to be going great again. The whole second half of the race continued along these lines, highs, followed by lows, followed by highs to be followed by lows again. By the time I reached 36km, with 6 to go, it seemed the lows lasted longer than the highs. By now my pace had slowed. A combination of starting too quickly, and not considering the challenge of the hills en route. I began to doubt if I could keep enough pace to go sub 3!

All my pre-rehearsed mantras seemed pointless, but I recited them anyway, trying to pass the remaining minutes as 6k to go changed to 5, then 4, then 3, then 2, then 1. The final km seemed to last forever, and every turn disappointed me when it didn’t offer up the first sight of the finishing gantry. When it did eventually come, it was a heavenly sight. The end was nigh, and I was near my own wits end. Upon crossing the finishing line, it took all the strength I had left to keep walking through the finishers zone, but my pain was not over yet. Mother nature had a final surprise for me yet, as cramp struck in both calfs at once!

Thanks to the wonderful St Johns Ambulance staff, and the physio team in getting me up and moving again! For both the right and wrong reasons, the Dublin Marathon 2011 will truly be a race I’ll never forget! I gave it everything I had, and came home with a new PB, having smashed the 3 hour target! National Lottery Dublin Marathon 2011 - the hardest race of my life.

Many thanks to all my fellow ELR runners for your wonderful words of support, without which, yesterday’s achievement would have been all the more impossible. Race over and medal collected.

[eastlondonrunner]

Virgin London Marathon 22nd April 2012

Race Report!

Waking up on the morning of 22nd April 2012 was easy, in fact, my eyes pinged open at 5 am, and I was wide awake! This was the day I would return to the Virgin London Marathon! Having missed the 2011 race, I was un-doubtably keen, and very excited. Peeping through the curtains, I thought it was going to be dull and overcast, but instead it was clear, and bright! Reaching for my phone, the first thing I did was check the hourly weather forecast, expecting rain! Sunshine was all that was on offer, but with the promise of being slightly chilly for this time of year! All together, rounding up to be perfect conditions for racing.

Travelling by coach with my fellow East London Runners took the hassle out of the pre-race travel arrangements, and I found myself in Greenwich Park with plenty of time to relax. Thomas and Manjit kept me company, as we passed the time, sitting on the grass, chatting & recalling previous marathon experiences. The ‘Red, Good For Age’ start zone was compact, with the toilets, changing tent, baggage truck, Lucozade stall and start pens all within a couple of seconds jog. The mood was calm, casual, and relaxed, until shortly after 9am, when a lone lady started prompting runners to deposit their kit bags on the truck. One more run to the loo, hoodie off, bin bag on, bag on truck, time to que up in the start zone, and prepare for the race to begin! The atmosphere remained relaxed, but by now was focused on the start a about 15 minutes away. 9:45am, and we were under way!

It only took a few seconds to cross the start line, but still, the start was very congested! Running off too quick was not an option, as all the good for age runners seemed to be doing their hardest to resist temptation, hold back, and start slow! My first mile was about 30 seconds slower than target pace. My second mile was quicker, but with a little weaving in and out, jostling for space, was still slower than target pace. This continued for the next mile or so, until things settled down, and I started to find my space, and pace. As the miles clocked from 3, to 4, to 5, I reminded myself of my first promised supporter who, having moved to Greenwich the day before, had let me know that the mile 7 marker was directly at the end of his street. As 5 turned to 6, I had forgotten that the Cutty Sark was yet to come! It was a pleasure to run around this restored Landmark, and the atmosphere here was electric! Finally, mile 7. I hear my name, and my friend ran out from the crowd, and thrust a bottle of Lucozade sport into my hand! 7 done. 19.2 to go. Onwards, with my next goal, being Tower Bridge, and thereafter the halfway point. I don’t recall much from these miles, only that I felt ok, and I was happy with my pace. Seeing my cousin at mile 12 was an unexpected bonus, and gave me the energy to plough through to Tower Bridge! The slight incline as you approach the bridge took me by surprise, but the crowds here were deep, and the support carried me through to the 20km mats on the crest of the bridge. I knew from here it is only another kilomenter to the half way point. 13.1 miles offered an opportunity to review how I felt. Passing here in 1:21:26, I was about 60 seconds ahead of target, but I felt good, and was running well. This part of the course I know well, and I allowed myself to enjoy the atmosphere as I continued along the highway, right into Narrow street, and past Limehouse basin.

The promise of more support in the city of London was now keeping me going, but I managed to run through without catching sight of my promised supporters. With my partner, brother, and a couple more friends promising to be at the East London Runners water station, I was now concentrating on reaching this point, at mile 20. I was however slightly distracted by a small cutting pain growing on a toe on my left foot! Having stubbed a toe on my right foot 6 days ago, I had been expecting toe trouble, but when it came, it was the wrong foot. It must be a toenail issue. ‘Nothing I can do about it now’ I told myself, ‘but at least my stubbed toe has not been causing me any trouble! As I ran, I again focused on my posture, and then on my family, friends and fellow East London Runners at the mile 20 water station. Turning left into Poplar High Street, I was surprised how far I could see along the road, but the water station was concealed from view, except for an outcrop of balloons peeking above the trees in the distance.

At last, St Mathias Church came into view, and the first greetings from fellow East London Runners came abounding, together with cheers from my partner and friends. Lance passed me my energy gel that I had instructed him to have ready, and I continued through the water station to the resounding cheers from my fellow club members. I’m sure it was a combination of both the gel, and seeing so many familiar faces that carried me through the next 4 miles on a high, back along the highway, past the Tower of London, onto the embankment, and before I knew it, I could see St Stephens Tower (Big Ben) in the distance. Here a glance at my Garmin told me that I was close to my upper target time, but it was very, very tight. 24 miles turned to 25, and with a turn right, onwards towards Birdcage Walk, the shade of the trees was continuously welcome. Then came the signs. 800m to go, 600m to go. At the 600 meter point, I had a brief second when I felt like walking! ‘not now’ I told myself. I was determined to run this race without any walking, and I was so close. I put the demon to the back of my mind, and continued onwards towards Buckingham Palace.

Turning right into The Mall, the finishing gantry was a welcome sight! I looked to the clock, which told me I had 385 yards to run, but only a matter of seconds to do it in, to achieve my upper target. An impossible task, even with a short sprint finish, but delighted to complete the gruelling 26.2 miles in 2:45:24. A mere 24 seconds outside my upper end target, and a personal best by 6 minutes.

Massive thanks to everyone involved, from the London Marathon Company, my family, friends, East London Runners, through to all the volunteers and supporters who helped make the Virgin London Marathon 2012 a race that I will recall with fondness and joy for years to come.

[eastlondonrunner]

A running club in East London for anyone who simply loves running.