Week 15 - The Ice Maiden Returns - Day 104 of 112

Not a good one for my hamstring!

The maiden made an appearance this morning. I thought that since our last meeting time may have mellowed that ice cold exterior. Well yes and no. Caught up with her on the tow path this morning as I tested my hamstring. As she passed I gave her my customary nod and wave. I thought she gave me a nod. But no it cannot have been a nod because I passed her again 15 minutes later and she just black balled me completely. There was a lady running not 30 seconds behind her and undeterred I said hello and she gave me an acknowledgement. Happy days. It is strange why some people are just plain rude. What does it take just to give an acknowledgement. She looks plain pissed off whenever I pass her. Why bother?

Kept the pace to an absolute minimum and covered 5 miles in 42.16. The leg held up and this was the whole point of the run. I am really pleased with this. Now it is just a case of keeping the leg out of trouble and keep any pace for the last third of the race. I need to keep up with the strengthening exercises and not put this on the back burner just because I have had one run without a relapse. I think that is where I have gone wrong in the past. The achilles was fine and the cadence was kept at a good level. Just noticed that at the Half Penny Bridge the Council have constructed an outdoor gym. I had a go on a couple of the machines. Take my hat off to the Council to at last be encouraging an exercise society.

Davy's Uni Barber

It must be close to race day. I have been down to see Davy at The Uni Barber to have my race day haircut. "A 3 back and sides and a little off the top please". A visit to the Uni Barber always gives a good indication as to how fit you are for your race. There's no hiding those extra pounds if they are there as you stare at your melon for half an hour. A tenner, a bit of chat about the girls and I am out of there for another 6-8 weeks.

Coming into the last week, the idea is to dial everything back and conserve the energy. In a bit of a dilemma as to whether I should kick on and keep up a higher level of miles or stick to the plan. I am thinking that I should dial it back but keep off the pace runs. Lets get to the start line after all the ups and downs in the last month. Conserve the energy for next Sunday. I have started my list for what to take with me. The clock is ticking and it is becoming quite exciting. I have downloaded the Blogger on to my phone so should be able to give an update whilst I am down south. I also need to work on the race strategy and get down my race goals. Bring it on!

Sneaked in a late swim down at The Western. 20minutes freestyle.

Numbers - 5 miles - 42.16 mins
Splits - 8.38 - 7.53 - 8.25 - 8.13 - 9.05