Clyde Stride- My First Ultra!!!!!!!- Nearly

Hiya,

Just back from the Clyde Stride.  I didn't quite manage the full race dropping out at the 3rd checkpoint -30 miles.  The cramps in my calfs were preventing me even walking to finish it- the were crippling!  This is something I have never had before and one I don't want to have again.

On reflection there were a few things I could have done differently;

• More longer runs trying to get my long run up to 5 hours
• A slower 1st leg I did the 1st 10 miles in 8-8.30min mile- despite planning on 9 min mile pace
• Made arrangement for water replenishment at the 1st checkpoint

I still enjoyed the race and know I could do it.  My original plan was to do this for my 40th so in effect I have done a recce of the parts of the race I was unfamiliar with.

It was also good to catch up with the Strathearn Harriers it was a pleasant surprise to see them, many of which I haven't seen for years the two phils and the two Lizs.

If I felt I could have finished I think I would be more disappointed , although given the cramps there was no way I could- so good experience and there is always next year.

cheers

allan

June Review

Well another month away and now 2 weeks before the big race.  I have done 123 miles this month with the last two weeks having pretty low mileage for a few reasons.  The first being I am now pretty fed up with the long runs and the need to run, rather than the desire.  The second being I have been quite busy at work, also the running is impacting on time with Liam, especially the long runs.

I have came to the conclusion that I can run 20 miles quite comfortably in about 4 hours witout much pain.  The next 10 miles will be tough and the next 10 will be even tougher.   However the last 20 miles in in 'my own territory' I am used to the route and I can walk/jog the end.

I am looking forwar to it or should I say the end of it:!!

cheers

allan