Twitter, Illness, Injury and then the NRAS 10k

Well, I've not been on here for a while, and a lots happened recently.

Firstly the blog went crazy when we used twitter to get some extra support. Setting up Simone's blog as a link I blitzed a whole host of celebs, and amazingly got responses.

Retweets from personal heroes of mine Mick McCarthy (the Wolves manager for those that don't know) and Steve Froggatt, were followed by a good luck message from Andi Peters. To finish off an absolute God in my wife's eyes Michael Buble then included a link in his daily online newspaper, and before we knew it the blog had rocketed passed 1000 views all over the world - which has been brilliant in spreading the word. Now all we need is a bit of sponsorship to back it up!! (hint hint)

The last few weeks however, have been very tough, with a cough and cold that has made running very difficult due to breathing difficulties - especially coping with asthma as well. Added to that has been a tight calf and because of that absolutely no training for three weeks. Last Sunday I was determined to go for a jog to get back into it - after all, it was only 10 weeks to go at the time till the first of the half marathons.

It just happened that last Sunday was the NRAS 10k near to High Wycombe, and the idea that if I took part in a race I would have no choice but to complete, meant that I thought what the hell! It was described as an undulating course - not quite what I would call it. Hooves, bleating and horns would have suited the run better - yes that's right - a Mountain Goat would have stood a much better chance. Over 600 feet were climbed, but what goes up also has to come down! At times the hills were so steep I couldn't actually walk up them and had to hang on to trees!!! Although there was a fair amount of running, I have to confess there was a bit (ahem!) of walking too leading to the worst time ever for a 10k at 1 hour 30. The biggest surprise however - finishing and being told I wasn't last.
http://www.adidas.com/com/micoach/WorkoutDetails.aspx?WID=42f8e5d4-fda3-4fa5-825f-60fc3fa063dc
is the link to my run from micoach - shows just how hilly it was! I have to say though - amazingly picturesque course, really well organised event and lots of fun and support- would highly recommend anyone to take part (but maybe get some hill training in first)

The real highlight of the day, was that after being involved with raising money for the NRAS for a few years I finally got to meet the team that do such an amazing job at the NRAS. It was really nice to finally put faces to names and have a chat with them all, and I'm looking forward to seeing them all at the Great North Run, especially as the founder of the NRAS Ailsa (see pics below) is taking part as well in her wheel chair with a team of helpers. Should be an amazing day.

Thought I'd attach a couple of photos to finish the blog, and if anything the 10k has spurred me on again - time to get full on into the training. 30 minutes on Saturday, and a simple (ahem) 1 hour 35 to do on Sunday - lovely!!

Some of the amazing NRAS team (plus me!)

Olly, me, Ailsa, Emma, Val, Tracey

Yes that really is me - all alone on the finishing straight! (but not last - just!)