Watch Repairs

As you know I have had trouble with my watch over the past few weeks so I decided to take action so I sent my watch to Garmin and hopefully get a new ‘ref\urbished’ one over the next few days. I was unsure what to do and the fact I would have no watch in the meantime but after asking my running friends quite a few had had the same trouble plus a friend loaned me a spare one in the interim.

I went out on Tuesday with my old watch and did a 45-minute + 8 ST which went well followed by the walking group.

Thursday and Friday were a bit chaotic because the borrowed watch was not set up to receive my AJ running coach’s session and needing to fulfill some other commitments. However, on Thursday, I did go swimming with a voucher I had for the first time in ages which I really enjoyed followed by a 2.5-mile run later in the day.

Friday ended up being a rest day, I just had too much to do but I got back out yesterday to do my notparkrun, which I found quite hard especially going up the cliffs as it was a headwind but I was really pleased with my time of 27’34.

Today I went for an 85-minute easy-paced run, I didn’t have a set route but as I didn’t go out until this afternoon, and it was sunny I decided to avoid the crowded seafront, it went really well and my pacing was good until the last 2 miles mainly because I was going uphill.

This week the summer racing season starts, with the Easter Dash (5 miles) on Friday, and then the East Hull Summer league starts a week on Tuesday

Take care N x

Upping the intensity

This week I asked @AJrunningcoach to change my Tuesday session to more of a structured session as I have it down as a club run and instead I go to the walking group. So he gave me a 45-minute easy-paced plus 8 x 20 seconds fast which I did with my sister. The weather was very odd away from the cliffs it was really warm but slightly overcast but by the time we got to the cliffs it was dull and very cool but we enjoyed the session.

Thursday was a repetition session, 15 minutes warm-up, 400m fast with 400m recovery four times. It was quite tough, as apart from the first 400m, they were all going into the wind. I still found, like last week, my right leg and arm get lazy so although I didn’t hit the set pace in all of the 400m, I was concentrating on getting my leg and arm better. The session ended with a 15-minute cooldown.

Friday, saw me undertake another 45 minutes plus 8 x 20 seconds. I added a twist, I saw a competition for a new watch but you have to send in a route making a ‘W’ shape. I tried doing small ones but they didn’t really work it gave the session a difference which kept it interesting.

Take care and stay safe N x

Yesterday was notparkrun day and I did a really good first two miles. Unfortunately, the seafront is starting to get busy with visitors and although I didn’t run until later than usual, I still had to negotiate a lot of people in mile 3. It does help me in a way because the people can be a target but hinder me when the pavements are full. Saying this I was pleased with my time of 28’05.

Today was an easy-paced 85 minutes so I was back trying to make a ‘W’ this time over a wider area. Again I liked the challenge although I did trip and graze my knee and shoulder but I was OK to continue. I feel it is better but not perfect.

Anyway, I am looking forward to different routes and going out at different times of the day now the nights are lighter for longer.

Take care and stay safe N x

Enjoyment

This week has been good, although I wasn’t on top form regarding speed, I have really enjoyed it.

Tuesday saw my sister and I do a 5-mile run followed by walking group which I really enjoyed.

Thursday saw me continue with my @AJrunningcoach’s program with a repetition session with a 15-minute warm-up followed by 8 x 200m with 200m recovery in between. Compared with the same session a fortnight earlier, it went a lot smoother. I did find my right leg, which is affected more by my disability was dragging a bit on some fast sessions. When I looked at the session when I uploaded to Garmin, I was really pleased with my efforts all of them close to my target pace.

Friday saw me do a 45-minute easy-paced followed by 8 x 20 seconds with a minute recovery in between. This has got to be my favourite session and I feel really comfortable doing it. Friday evening saw my mum and I attend the Bridlington Road Runners annual presentation night. It’s great to see how well members of all abilities are doing especially the junior section which is going from strength to strength. The evening definitely shows how lucky I am been involved in such an inclusive club.

Yesterday I did the Sewerby Parkrun as I was off work. The first mile was great but I did find it difficult after that. I did it in 29’09 which was a great time for me but I did feel I could have pushed myself harder in some places. Thanks to my friend David for the photo. I had a review with Andy, my coach in the evening where he was delighted with my progress and we have a solid plan for the summer – so exciting times ahead.

Today my sister and I did my 60-minute easy-paced session in which we decided to go through sewerby woods and on the rough parts of the cliffs I realised I only stick to pavements and roads so hopefully might help with future parkruns and my race at Easter.

What a week! Take care and stay safe N x

Adapting

This week, after an OK winter weather-wise, the winter came with a bang on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Fortunately, here, we missed the laying, thick snow but we had the wind with snow, hail, and sleet showers.

Anyway, Tuesday’s weather was good and I ended up doing a solo 6-mile run around the town which I really enjoyed. In the evening I went to the walking group at Road Runners.

Thursday, the weather wasn’t too bad late morning and I was debating whether to go do my planned AJ running coach’s threshold training but by the afternoon the wind had got up[ and the showers were more frequent. I relented and decided not to go. I was feeling very fidgety so I decided to go on the exercise bike for 30 minutes.

Friday’s weather got calmer as the day went on so late afternoon my sister and I undertook my planned session 45-minutes plus 8 x 20 seconds fast with a minute recovery in-between. We kept changing our route so we got some shelter from the conditions.

Yesterday I did my not parkrun and was really pleased with my time of 27’30 despite having to slow down to cross two roads.

Today I did an easy-paced 85-minute session, my longest training session for a while due to races and work commitments. I really enjoyed it and put parts of two of my usual routes together so I don’t get bored.

Take care N x

Wobbly

This week has been a week of just pushing through. After doing Snake Lane 10 miles last Sunday and having a cold, which does affect my balance. Tuesday saw me join my sister on a gentle 4.6-mile run which I found quite hard work especially on my legs which seemed to go sidewards instead of forwards. I gave walking group a miss this week due to the rain and cold as I thought it would be better to get over my cold and not make it worse.

Thursday, saw me follow AJ Running coach’s program by doing a repetition session of 8 x 200m with a minutes recovery in-between. Given that I was struggling I did OK despite missing one of the recovery periods so I did one lot of 400m and missed out the next repetition.

Friday was a 45-minute easy run followed by 8 x 20 seconds fast with a minutes recovery. I was still finding my legs going all over the place but felt it was improving. I entered the East Hull Summer League that evening, this is a series of 8 races of varying distances every other Tuesday evening between April and July. I love them, in 2019 I did only a couple, 2020 was cancelled and I did 6 last year.

Also on Friday I discovered that CP Sport had published my story which was really pleasing to see. I just wish charities and opportunities like this were around when I was a teenager but if I can share my story and encourage someone else with any disability, particularly Cerebral Palsy, to do sport at any level, it makes me feel warm inside.

Yesterday I had off work so I did the Sewerby Parkrun, as photographed by TCF Photogrphy, thanks Tom, I wasn’t expecting anything good because of the struggles during the week so did a gentle one and was pleased with my time of 29’07, it was definitely easier than when I did it a few week ago.

Today, again joined my sister, I was up and out early before work to do a 60-minute easy paced run. I really enjoyed it and found a good even speed, but best of all my legs seem to be more with it.

This week is forecast snow so lets see what fun that could bring

Take care, stay safe and warm N x

Snake Lane 2023

This week has been about building up to today – the Snake Lane 10 miler run by Pocklington Road Runners, which was fantastically organised as normal – more about that later.

Monday I was disappointed to hear that I wasn’t in the Great North Run but this was made up for on Wednesday when I did get a place in the Big Half in London on 3 September. Tuesday I went out for a run with my sister which was good followed by a good walk with the Road Runners walking group.

Thursday and Friday were following my AJ running coach’s program with two easy runs – 45 minutes on Thursday followed by 30 minutes on Friday. Things were really good and I enjoyed my rest day yesterday but unfortunately during the afternoon, I felt the cold my friends and family have had in the past few weeks coming on.

This morning my cold wasn’t too bad which I was happy about as ever since I was young having a cold means my balance isn’t as good as normal. I started really strong and managed to get alongside the 90-minute pacer which delighted me but then mile 4 was definitely a long one. I was still feeling good at mile 6, having water at the station at mile 5 definitely helped. Mile 7 is where I struggle, I think my cold didn’t help but also I went off slightly fast. I saw two of my clubmates supporting, and cheering the runners on at mile 8 and that definitely helped me. I felt I was hanging on miles 9 and 10 and also I was doing my bad habit of looking at my watch too much. I finished the race in 1.33.56 which is a course Pb of over 30 seconds. Looking on afterward, Strava it was my 3rd fastest 10K ever, so I am delighted but also excited by what I can work on.

Take care N x

Loving Technology (Not)

After recovering from my fall last week, this one has been a good one with the exception of my watch malfunctioning. More later. Monday was a disappointment as I found out I didn’t get into the Royal Parks half but this made me reassess which one I want to do. I have seen the Big Half in London in September, which is more or less the London Marathon from Cutty Sark to Tower Bridge but in reverse. I will never be able to manage a marathon but I will pass places that mean so much to me in the last decade or so. In addition, I believe it isn’t a ballot.

Tuesday I did a good 5- miles with my sister, followed by the walking group at Road Runners which has just flourished which is great to see.

Thursday I did the threshold session of my AJ running coach plan – 4 x 5 minutes at 9.07 pace with a minute recovery in between. I was initially disappointed as I couldn’t hit pace but as Andy said in my review on Friday this is the first session of this type I have done in some weeks.

Friday saw me do 45-minute easy pace followed by 8 x 20 seconds fast. This felt like the best session I have done in recent weeks and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Saturday, was back to not parkrun. This is when my watch went a bit off. I set the distance in the usual way for 5k (3.11 miles) and ended up doing 3.26 miles in 29’58. I felt I was going faster than the pace on my watch said but these things happen. Today, it wouldn’t synch my program so I just did the 60 minutes on the plan. The pacing was slightly fast but not too fast.

Take care and stay safe N

Two Halves

This week has definitely been a story of two halves. Starting the week on Tuesday I did a really good run with my sister followed by a great walk and talk session at the running club watching the lifeboat do a training exercise.

Thursday and Friday saw me complete two more sessions of my @AJrunningcoach plan which were both 45 minutes easy-paced followed by 8 x 20 seconds fast with a minute recovery. I really enjoy these sessions and seemed to have found the right tempo to do them at. Also on Friday I decided to reply to a Twitter post by Cerebral Palsy sport asking for those who have the impairment to do a piece about how sport has helped me, and ever since I was little it has helped me so much physically and mentally so I hope my story helps others with a similar disability

Yesterday I had the morning off work, so went to Sewerby Parkrun which I haven’t done since September. I was really up for it but as soon as I set off I just felt sluggish and did it in 29’53. Thanks to TCF photography for my photo, it doesn’t look as bad as I feared it would.

This morning I was doing my 60-minute easy-pace run with my sister before work when disaster struck, my mind wandered off, and I lost concentration, fell, and hurt my hands, knees, and face. They were just cuts and not too bad so we continued and managed to complete the run.

This week, I am looking not to fall and do a good week’s training ahead of my 10 mile race which is a fortnight today. I also find out whether I’m in the Royal Parks half marathon as the ballot results come out tomorrow.

Take care and don’t do me and fall N x

First Race of the Year

Today saw my first race of 2023, the Bridlington Road Runners 3-mile anniversary race now renamed after our member Stuart Spooner who died last year. Last night I, for some unknown reason was very nervous but this morning those nerves were replaced by excitement. My main focus was not to go off too fast as it has two hills to start off with, and although there is still room for improvement, I think I did well. I was pleased with my first mile of 9’07 as it is mostly uphill. The second mile back along the cliff path was my weakness. My right arm, which has a mind of its own, due to my disability, wasn’t going as well as it sometimes does,. I felt better once we hit the 2 miles, once I knew the main climbing was done. I had to have self-control down the two steep hills before the sprint to the line. I was happy I managed to keep some friends behind me in the end.

4.17 Pace – A Bit Fast?

Yesterday was a big learning point – one I should have learned ages ago but NO I never do. I was doing my Saturday afternoon #notparkrun and I usually go off way too fast but this week I excelled. When I uploaded my Garmin it said I had set off at 4.17 min/mile pace, wonder my sister, who is faster, struggled to catch up with me. Yes, the inevitable happened and I was totally wiped out after 2 miles and completed my 5K in 27’55, which isn’t too bad but had I started steadier I may have been able to do better.

This week’s AJ running coach program has been about consolidation and making sure my leg had definitely recovered after last week’s slip. Tuesday I went for a good pace run with my sister, we did 5.1 miles in 50:41 in the morning followed by Road Runners walking group in the evening.

Thursday and Friday saw me complete 45-minute easy-paced runs on both days. I was joined by my sister on Thursday but did it solo on Friday. I made sure that Friday included checking out my #notparkrun route as one of the roads was blocked last week due to roadwork, it is where we had to turn back just before I slipped today.

Today, as I was working, I just did a 60-minute easy-paced run with my sister. The first two miles felt terrible, I think my legs were still protesting about my kamikaze start yesterday. After that, I felt good and did 5.9 miles, we did a bit more as I want to beat last January’s total and we are not sure how far we can fit in due to a prior commitment. I need to do 3.9 miles to beat last year.

Next week, I have another quiet training week due to a 3-mile club race on the clifftops next Sunday

Take care and stay safe N x

Taking the Positives out of Negatives

This week has been a tale of two halves, my sister and I did a great run on Tuesday at a decent pace, which I really enjoyed followed by the Running club’s walking group in the evening I felt really positive at the end of Tuesday.

Thursday, however, went disaster stuck, it was meant to be one of AJ running coach’s repetition sessions. For these sessions, I usually go along the clifftops which is perfect as it takes just under 15 minutes (my allotted warm-up) to get there. Unfortunately, pavement works dedicated a reroute so after the first sprint we cut across a field, unfortunately, still on the field as I went for the second repetition I slipped and hurt my leg. It was too painful to carry on and I had to call my mum to collect me.

I took Friday and Saturday off and had a great 4-weekly (after about 8 due to ice and festivities) with Andy on Friday evening. I still managed to complete my 10,000 daily steps – today is day 527!

I look on Twitter and follow UK run chat and someone said they kept falling and their knees were forever bruised/cut, did anyone have any ideas what they could do. I really enjoyed sharing my knowledge/experience and recommended some knee pads.

Today we had changed my plan to do 45 minutes easy-paced instead of 100 minutes, but it was frosty and icy in places. I was undecided about what to do until late afternoon when my sister invited me for a run when the ice/frost had disappeared. We did it and it definitely helped my mental health

Take care and stay safe N x

100 Not Parkrun

Yesterday I reached a milestone born out of the distant days of lockdown. When Parkrun was cancelled Bridlington Road Runners swung into action and created a club-run virtual parkrun, any 5k route on Saturdays. After a month or two when it became obvious life wasn’t going back to normal as soon as people hoped, the Parkrun website came up with the same idea but you could do it any day of the week, and called it notparkrun. I did this as well as the club virtual one and continued with it after Parkrun resumed as I work Saturday mornings. I do it once a week and did my 100th yesterday.

Today I did an easy-paced 60-minute run, I did feel quite sluggish but actually achieved quite a good pace. Friday saw me do my favourite session of AJ running coach program, 45-minute easy then 8 x 20 seconds fast with a minute recovery in between. I definitely think this week’s session was my best of these so far.

Thursday saw me do a repetition session which went well, sometimes I went too fast but considering that I haven’t done a type of session like this since early December due to the weather and festivities, I thought I made a good attempt but hope to improve more of these sessions.

Tuesday, my sister and I went out first thing to avoid the forecast bad weather as it turns out we got the brunt of it so we only did 4-miles. When I got home I entered the Great North Run ballot encouraged by my sister as a thank you for supporting her training and during the London Marathon. I’ve seen it on TV but never thought I would enter. Fingers crossed for the ballot results in late February

Take care N x

New Year – 2023

My running year started at 9am, doing an unofficial parkrun a, along the seafront. It is organised by Sewerby Parkrun but due to the facilities at the park being closed, they do a different route. I was feeling great the first half up the cliffs only to realise it was a strong gusty, wind on the way back so I was pleased with my time of 28’20. I did count this as an extra not parkrun as you could do two proper ones over the weekend. Afterward, we all went to Wetherspoons which was great as I hadn’t seen many of my clubmates in December due to other commitments and the treacherous weather.

This week was a return to AJ Coaching week 22, I think I started it twice before Christmas and had to abandon it due to the weather. Tuesday I did a shorter 4-miles with my sister incorporating an errand in the afternoon before returning to the Road Runners walking group where again we had a good catch-up.

Wednesdays are a rest day due to work. This week the session was the same Thursday and Friday, 45 minutes easy-paced followed by 8 x 20-second fast with a minute rest in-between. Both sessions went well, I was faster with some of my sprints on Thursday but more consistent with them on Friday.

Yesterday saw me completing my 99th notparkrun. My first two miles were good but again I hit the strong winds on the seafront so I was pleased with my time of 28’00. Fingers crossed there is no bad weather this Saturday so I can complete my 100th.

Today was an easy-paced 100-minute run, definitely my furthest for quite a while so I wondered how I would get on. I went out first thing as this was the best of the weather but decided to avoid the seafront as it was still windy. I felt great, although I did struggle to find a route for the last ten minutes I completed 9.13 miles.

Take care and stay safe N x

2022

So that is a wrap… 2022 is now over running-wise at least. What a year it has been.

In January, I finally managed to do my 50th Parkrun which due to me working most Saturdays was the original target when I changed jobs and was on 45 at New Year 2020 but we all know what happened. Today I completed my 97th not parkrun, I do them every Saturday, but I only count one a week.

February saw me tackle my first 10-mile race, Snake Lane, which I did well in 1 hour and 35 minutes. It was a bit surreal as this was the last race to take place before lockdown, where I supported my clubmates as in 2020 it was too far for me and I was injured.

March saw my family go away for a few days so I managed to do Skipton Parkrun which I really enjoyed. April saw the start of the racing season, my second full one after 2021 was a bit disjointed due to racing only starting in July with the East Hull Harriers Summer League, one race every fortnight on a Tuesday evening. I did more races than in 2019, with only missing two, one as we were on holiday and one due to torrential weather. I improved in all the ones I did in 2019 and did the 8 miles at Skirlaugh.

Races came thick and fast after that, Beverley in May, Walkington in July, Eddie Knapp club challenge in September, and Scarborough in October.

In June I entered a Twitter competition to win a 4-week plan with AJ coaching. I wasn’t sure how it would work due to my disability but it definitely has, I don’t look like I’m dying at the end of races anymore and my PBs have been tumbling down. He has made the sessions more interesting and it has helped me beat my 2021 mileage total by 21-miles, completing 1046.4 miles.

One of the most exciting experiences this year was supporting my sister and clubmates at the London Marathon. I was acting as prime support for my sister as we went together, just the two of us but it was great to support other runners I know as well. I did manage to sneak in a parkrun on Saturday at Victoria Docks which was great.

2023 looks exciting I would like to a competitive half-marathon and have put my name down to be an eventeer at the Rob Burrows Marathon in Leeds in May

Have a safe and fab new year

Take care N x

Ice and Life

After the boiling summer, odds were on that we would hit bad weather at some point this winter and the odds were right.

Last Tuesday I did a 5.4-mile solo run around the town and in the evening I joined the Road Runners who went Santa hunting. A local charity, Bridlington Round Table, has a Santa on a sleigh going around the town, doing different parts of the town over a week. So we ventured to see him on his advertised route. The running groups went to the same areas so we all met each other seeking out Santa. It made the evening different and supported the local charity.

Wednesday is always a rest day as normal, then overnight winter hit. Frost and ice. I know everyone struggles in this weather but as my balance isn’t as good due to my disability, I ended up having to be helped by my mum or someone else whenever we went out so my AJ running coach plan was scrapped for the week.

I did manage a very careful 5K run with my sister on Saturday afternoon but since then festivities, work, and the weather have got in the way.

Today its as icy as ever, it hasn’t got above freezing, and late on the fog arrived so I decided action was needed as I felt very lazy so got on my exercise bike and did a good 35-minute ride

Take care, and stay safe and warm N x

Festive Fun and Paralympic Journeys

This week I have enjoyed it as I have taken a step back and enjoyed family time at the start of the week. On Tuesday my sister and I had a leisurely 3.4-mile run, just chatting. The first two miles were a struggle as my legs felt really weak. This was interesting as I had a leg massage on Monday for the first time ever which I thoroughly enjoyed.

I was still following my AJ Coaching session and he mixed up my training to help me find more of a life balance. On Thursday and Friday, it was a 45-minute easy pace then 8 x 20 seconds with a minute recovery in between on both days. This is definitely my favourite session. On Thursday I was joined by my sister, and on Friday I did a solo session so I took my phone and did some photography of the scenery.

As I was taking part in the Bridlington Lions Santa Dash, a 5k fun run for a local charity, I had a rest day as I thought I had a good chance of doing a great time. This morning the weather had different ideas with showers and gale-force winds going up the cliffs. I was really happy with my time of 28’30 given the conditions, a 6-and-a-half minute improvement on the time I did in 2018.

In addition to my running, I was excited to see that the National Paralympic Heritage Centre shared my story from being a gamesmaker to applying to the Discover Your Gold Talent program to doing Parkrun to joining Bridlington Road Runners. I love sharing my story, as I hope it inspires others, especially those who have a similar disability to me as there were very few role-models when I was a youngster

Take care N x

Admitting I Need to Step Back

This week has been good. I did a really good 10K with my sister, at a decent pace on Tuesday afternoon. I really enjoy running with her although she says I zone out. On Tuesday night I decided to join the walking club at Road Runners. The group had been joined by two others this week. We had a great laugh, I thoroughly enjoy this group as different people dip in and out on different weeks.

Thursday was again my main session of my AJ Running coach program with an interval session. It consisted of 4 x 800m with a minute recovery in-between. I was pleased with my effort, although slightly below the set pace I managed to do them within seconds, meaning I was consistent throughout the 4 sets.

Friday was a 100-minute easy-paced run. Wanting a different route, I just set off and see where I ended up depending on the roads, etc. I thoroughly enjoyed it and went down roads I rarely go down, it’s well worth making the conscious decision to go off your usual route to see what’s happening in your area.

Yesterday saw me do my Virtual Parkrun. I was flying during the first two miles but unfortunately hit the headwind on the cliffs. The cliffs are great for running as they are traffic free but they are exposed to the elements. Considering the tough conditions of the last mile I was pleased with my time of 27’38.

This morning I did an hour easy-paced run before work again trying to go somewhere different.

This week completed my latest block of training and I have made the decision to cut my training. I’m proud I’ve done 115.4 miles this month I have extra work commitments and of course, the festive season is nearly here, I am reducing my mileage until after Christmas but I will still be doing some.

Take care N x

Event 500, the toughest yet!

The week, number 19 of @AJrunningcoach had a shake-up as I went for a girly day out with my mum and sister on Thursday so my main session was done on Tuesday. This was a threshold session consisting of 4 x 5 minutes at 9.07 min/mile pace. It was tough due to the wind which has been strong all week. I was pleased with my session and have definitely learned to control my pacing better especially in the last few weeks. As I did this session during the day, I decided to join the club’s walking group for a chat that evening.

I had Thursday off so Friday was my next session, an easy-paced 80 minutes. I am getting used to these longer sessions and this one I did solo. I really enjoyed it as I did with my 100-minute session this morning which I was accompanied by my sister. I took time to plan our route, last night, which definitely made it easier.

Yesterday morning I took the morning off work so I did Sewerby Parkrun, which happened to be my 500th event. It was very tough as it was head-wind all the way up the cliff-top path. and it was slippery through the woods. Although these conditions are tougher for everyone, due to my balance I do find it more difficult so I was delighted with my time 29’30. As I thought about the event when I was running, I can’t believe how much Parkrun changed my life and how much I have improved. If I hadn’t turned up, encouraged by my sister in August 2018, unsure how well I would be able to do it, I wouldn’t have seen how inclusive and welcoming Bridlington Road Runners are and therefore my journey wouldn’t have started. I can’t emphasis how much it has helped me physically and mentally.

Take care N x

Fitting it all in

This week has been a busy one as I was doing extra hours at work so having to fit everything in plus managing the shorter daylight hours has meant real organisation and asking my coach @AJrunningcoach to swap the sessions around a bit.

Tuesday saw me complete a gentle 5-mile run with my sister which I really enjoyed. Thursday, my main session of the week was a repetition one. 4x200m followed by 2x400m followed by 4x200m. I was eager to be more disciplined with my pacing as I was a bit all over the place in the previous week’s session. I went up to my normal cliff top path and found it easier than I thought by keeping my pacing although the wind was strong (headwind down the cliff, the wind behind me up the cliff) I managed all the sections within 10 seconds of the target time so I was delighted.

Friday saw me do my long session as I was working today, it was a 100-minute easy-paced run. My sister accompanied me which was good as my route could be more rural, giving me more options. The wind was still strong in places but I really enjoyed seeing different parts of the local area as I don’t often get a chance as I wouldn’t do these routes solo.

Yesterday saw me complete my 92nd virtual parkrun. I felt good but the wind was still stiff I decided to give it a real shot and I thought I may have overdone the first two miles but I managed to keep going even though the last mile was into the wind. I completed it in 26’52, a 10-second course PB and only 3 seconds off my overall 5K PB.

Today I got out early before work to do my hour easy-paced run. For the first time this winter it was damp and foggy so I kept to roads around the local houses. I didn’t feel into it but managed 5.2-miles so I was happy. I have also enjoyed keeping up with my friend’s social media posts this afternoon, keeping me up to date with how they’ve done in races today. Seeing your friends achieve their goals always makes me smile

Take care N x

Putting in the Miles

This week was week 17 of my @AJrunningcoach program, and the week was meant to kick off with a club run on Tuesday night but it was rainy, cold, and dark so I decided to go for a run earlier in the day with my sister. We did over 5 miles at a really good speed and enjoyed the scenery.

Thursday, was my main session of the week and my biggest learning curve yet. I had to do 6 x 400m at 7.46 pace with a minute rest in between. I had varying degrees of success but I went way too fast on two of them. This meant I couldn’t recover well enough and suffered in the end. I was disappointed when my coach pointed it out but that is what he is there for and I am determined to learn from it and take the pointers moving forward.

Friday saw me do my favourite session – a 50-minute easy-paced then 8 x 20 seconds fast with a minute rest in between. My pacing for the fast parts were much more even and only varied due to the elevation, roads and going around people.

Yesterday saw me do my weekly virtual parkrun in 28’10. The first two miles were good and I felt really positive but as I went down the cliffs for the final mile I hit a very strong headwind and it began to drizzle. I was quite happy with my time, it was a similar story to Scarborough the other week.

Today, my coach set me a 100-minute easy-paced run. I was apprehensive as I just couldn’t decide on a route. I decided to do it first thing as the afternoons are drawing in. Once I started I enjoyed it though the first few miles were tough due to the fog it did clear towards the end. I was really pleased with my pacing the last mile my route was getting busier with people.

After a coffee at the local leisure centre, I put on my long coat and went to the seafront to support the club’s constable 10K handicap, as it goes through Danes Dyke, a local wooded area with steep slopes and very uneven steps I decide due to the wet ground to veto it. I find rough terrain very difficult and am very unstable but I was pleased I got a good run and managed to cheer my teammates in at the finish.

I feel I have achieved a lot this week, I have done over 30-miles, my biggest weekly mileage as well as negotiating the shorter daylight hours, something I, like everyone else will have to continue to do in the coming weeks.

Take care and stay safe N x

Different workouts

This week started on an easy note. As I had my covid vaccine earlier in the day I decided instead of running I would join the running club’s walking group, an innovation a year ago for friends/family who wanted to exercise but not run or those runners who were injured and felt on the sidelines, It was a great idea and a couple of times I’ve joined them I have really enjoyed it. We had to laugh the four of us with torches had passed a young family and the young kid thought we were miners.

Thursday saw me resume running, with another week planned by @AJrunningcoach. This week was a mixed session, a 15-minute warm-up then a ten-minute run at the threshold followed by 3 x 200m with 200m rest in between. I got muddled with the rest as I had a minute’s recovery but I really enjoyed it.

Friday saw a 45-min ute easy-paced run followed by 8 x20 seconds with a minute’s recovery in between. I love doing the 20 seconds efforts, I think it is one of my favourite sessions.

Yesterday saw me complete my weekly #notparkrun, I felt really good so I decided to really go for it. The route was quite quiet as it would damp. I was delighted with my time of 27’13, 10 seconds slower than my course PB, but it was my best effort for a while.

Today was my 60-minute easy-paced run. I was accompanied by my sister so we ventured further afield. It really makes a difference seeing different scenery.

Take care and stay safe N x

Scarborough 10K

The week leading up to today’s race has been good.

Monday was World Mental Health Day as I have said before running has made a huge difference to me. When I’m feeling down and fed up I make sure I go running, even a mile, it clears and focuses my mind.

I had a really enjoyable club run on Tuesday which set me up nicely for the week. I can’t believe that I have completed week 13 of AJ Running coach’s program. Time is just flying. Thursday saw my main session was a threshold one. A 15-minute warm-up followed by 3 lots of 5-minutes with 2-minutes recovery in-between then a 15-minute cool-down. I found I was going faster than I should but I was maintaining my pace well. Friday was a 45-minute easy-paced session which I really enjoyed and appreciated what was around me.

Yesterday was a rest day, it felt quite weird not doing a virtual parkrun.

Today was Scarborough 10K. It was well-organised and the support and the marshalls were fantastic. I was excited but a bit unsure of the wind. I needn’t have been. I probably did set off too fast but it felt good and knew the headwind would be strongest on the way back. I did a 5K PB on the way out 26’49, a 2-second PB, even though I stopped for water which I find difficult. Mile 4 and most of 5 slowed slightly but felt good then at mile 5 we hit what felt like gale-force winds, it was a case of hoping you went forward and not backward. After the headland, the wind ease slightly but it was still strong. I completed the course (recorded at 6.3-miles) in 56’33 over 30-seconds quicker than last year. Strava had my 10K as a new PB of 55’42 but Garmin didn’t register it as a PB. Either way, I was delighted with my performance given the conditions.

Take care N x

Supporting the London Marathon

Last Sunday was the day our family had waited nearly three years for, my sister completed the London Marathon. It was just my sister and I who made the journey down there, as my parents were marshalling the first Bridlington multi-terrain half-marathon which was a huge success.

Sunday had forecast rain but there was no sign of it as the sun came out, making it warm at times. As I had got to know London quite well, I had planned to be at strategic points. First off was Cutty Sark, at 6 miles, I cheered on the two lads from the club while I waited for my sister. The next stop was Tower Bridge (Mile 12.5), I caught a glimpse but it was packed so I went looking for a friend from the club who was at mile 22 (not far away as it was an out-and-back section of the course) and I managed to see one of the lads and my sister. I met her at the end and she was delighted with her time of 4 hours 20 minutes.

Some people have asked me now that I have supported my sister with her marathon training, what’s my next running goal. My answer is do a half-marathon, I know a marathon would be too much. I did a virtual one with the club in 2020 when there was no racing due to covid but I would love to race one.

The week leading up to the marathon I took a week off AJ Coaching as I knew my chance to run would be limited. I did a club run on both Tuesdays (before and after the marathon). While in London. I took the opportunity to do the Victoria Docks Parkrun. A two-lap out-and-back course near the Excel centre. I was very pleased with my time of 27’09. Monday, after a long journey back I joined my sister running home from the train station to complete her daily mile which she started in December 2017. Thursday saw me resume my AJ coaching with an interval session 4 x 800m with 2 mins recovery. I found it tiring and didn’t quite hit my target pace but my pacing was consistent. Friday was a 45-minute easy-paced session then 8 x 20 seconds with a minute recovery, Yesterday I did my virtual parkrun in 27’31, and today I managed to complete 7.25-miles in my 80-minutes easy-paced run. Both yesterday and today were very windy.

This week is week 13 of my AJ running plan, culminating in the Scarborough 10K. This is my third time at the race, the first was a day to forget and last year went really well so can’t wait to see what this year brings.

Take care N x

Pacing

This week has been an enjoyable week with lots of positives. Today I did an 85-minute easy-paced (10.37-11.49) run. When I started out with @ajrunningcoach and he gave me these sessions, my @garmin watch would continuously beep that I was going too fast or too slow, but it didn’t beep once today. Even though it did beep during my 45-minute easy-paced run on Friday, it beeped a lot less than it used to. The session I need to improve my pacing on is my threshold training. This week’s session saw me do a straight 10-minute block at 9.02-9.12 pace, although again I have seen improvement in these sessions I am not quite hitting the targets so that is going to be the next focus.

Yesterday I was back doing my virtual parkrun, and after the buzz of achieving my Sewerby PB last week, I knew it wasn’t going to be as good. Saying that the wind was very strong on the clifftops so it was a battle. In the end, I was really pleased with my time of 28’10.

I skipped club training this week in order to do a session with my sister whose doing the London Marathon next week, we did an easy-paced 45-minutes session. Due to me going to support her my next update will be delayed until the following week.

Take care N x

Sewerby PB

This week I had the week off work and I went away for the night on Tuesday so all my running got changed around. I am now on week 11 of AJ coaching plan. Monday and Thursday saw me doing threshold training, Monday was 3 x 5 minutes 9.07 pace with 2 minutes rest in-between. I did OK but I still struggled with the pacing, on Thursday I did 5 x 3 minutes 9.07 pace with a minute rest in between and I seemed to do a lot better, it was definitely the best one of these sessions that I have completed.

While I was in London meeting a friend celebrating 10 years since we met when we were Gamemaker at the Paralympics, I decided to do the climb at the O2 Arena again like I did in 2012. I don’t remember it being quite the struggle I found it this time but it was dry last time as opposed to it being wet and slippery this time.

Friday saw me do 45 minutes easy-paced followed by 8 x20 seconds fast with a minute in-between. I find this session quite good and managed to do the same distance 8 times.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to do Parkrun at Sewerby. I went out fast as normal, as I have previously said I do this as the final mile is in the woods and some tricky steps. I was absolutely amazed when I finished in 27’58, a 45-second course PB. Thanks to TCF photography for the photo.

Today, after work I did an 85-minute easy-paced run going all around town, making the route up as I ran. I found this really enjoyable and managed 7.7-miles. I only found the last 1.5-miles tough as they were uphill and I was tiring.

Next week it back to normal as I return to work.

Take care N x

4 Races over 4 Nights

The start of September signals only one thing at Bridlington Road Runners which is the Eddie Knapp challenge (named after a coach and club runner who I sadly never met). The challenge is four races from Tuesday to Friday in the same week.

Night 1 – 3 mile cross country, Night 2 – 5k beach race (accidentally extended this year) Night 3 – a mile sprint along the Promenade Finally night 4 – a 10K course

I am really pleased to say I got 4 course PBs and would have smashed my beach course one anyway. The challenges of the courses are very different. The first two are extra difficult for me as they are on rugged terrain. The sprint isn’t my best event but to do a 9-second PB was still pleasing. Even though I was tired on Friday I just can’t get over my time of 55’23, not quite a 10K PB as it is slightly short but to get a 2-minute 18-second course PB amazed me.

Yesterday I did the virtual parkrun and on very tired legs I still managed 28’15 which was great. Today I decided I needed a rest.

This week I’m off work and am doing other things so my rest days are Tuesday and Wednesday. @AJrunningcoach kindly skipped a week while I was doing the challenge so week 11 here I come. Next Saturday I will be able to do Sewerby parkrun which I am looking forward to.

Take care N

Beauty

This week began on Tuesday continuing to be my sister’s training partner for the London Marathon. We did a good 5-mile route quite easily. The weeks are certainly flying by towards the big event.

On Thursday I did my @AJrunningcoach training with a hard session – 15 minutes warm-up, 3 x 400m with 3 minutes jog in-between finishing with 15 minutes cool-down. I still find I am these sessions difficult to pace but definitely improving and am determined this trend will continue.

Friday, I received some sad news, but my session of 30-minute easy-paced followed by a new bit which involved doing a 20-second fast followed by a minute recovery eight times certainly helped my mind. I found the new bit tricky as somehow every time the pace quickened I seemed to hit a corner. I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge and look forward to doing the session again. As I said previously, especially during the COVID lockdowns, running helped my mental health so much and this continues to be the case.

Yesterday was my virtual Parkrun. I set off probably way too quick but I had to cross a road and then met a mobility scooter in an awkward place to pass. Anyway, I continued and my pace increased until I turned to head back down the cliffs and it was full-on head-wind. My time of 29’14 certainly wasn’t my best but considering all the challenges I had on the route I was really pleased.

This morning, I got out early before work to do my 60-minute easy-paced session. It was an absolutely glorious morning so headed straight for the cliffs and Sewerby Park. I am not one to stop running in order to take photos of the views but it was so beautiful I decided to make an exception as you see. I went on cliff paths, grassland, and woodland, although it was tough in places I thoroughly enjoyed it.

In the coming week, I am club training on Tuesday, and on Thursday @AJrunningcoach has set my threshold training which I haven’t done before so that will be interesting.

Take care N x

Training Partner

This week was week 7 of my @Jrunningcoach plan, and I must say I am thoroughly enjoying it. I combined this week’s plan to help my sister who is following the Intermediate plan of the London Marathon website as she is due to run it in October. It was hot again on Tuesday so instead of going to club training, we did an easy-paced 50-minute run. On Thursday I had an interval session 3 x 800m with 2-minute rest. I still find these difficult to judge, pacing-wise partly due to my disability but I am determined to get better and have them marked as a work in progress.

On Friday, still finding the weather rather warm, my sister and I decided to do our 30-minute easy-paced session in the shade of Sewerby Hall, especially in the woodland. It is challenging terrain for me but doing this session helps me to improve. Although my pacing wasn’t great I found it to be rewarding.

Yesterday was Virtual Parkrun day and still warm I knew it wasn’t PB conditions. I changed my route slightly a. for variety and b. to avoid the seafront as I knew this would be packed. I enjoyed it and managed it in 29’00 which I was really pleased with.

I was up and out early this morning as I had a 60-minute easy-paced run to do before work. I met my sister who was doing a 2-hour 45-minute run, setting off early to avoid the heat. I joined her for the last hour and she said she found it really motivating that I met her so today’s session was a double tick.

For the coming week, I have an extra bit to do on my Friday session as well as the normal ones. I am going to see what the weather has in store.

Take care N x

Puffins and Pacing

This week’s club session was following the puffin trail around Bridlington. It was warm weather but it kept the group’s interest up. We managed 4.5-miles, just missing out on two puffins at either end of the town so we are hoping to see those in the coming weeks.

As I said last week I had no races this week so I have had a solid week’s training with AJ coaching. I can’t believe I have just completed week 6, time’s passing so fast. On Thursday, I did a 15-minute warm-up followed by 4 lots of 3 minutes at a fast pace with 2 minutes easy in between rounded off with a 15-minute cooldown. The first fast didn’t quite go as well as there were people to go round and the land train came but the other 3 sections went well. Friday saw me do a 30-minute easy-paced session . This is where I find the program so motivating, I was busy during the day so I didn’t get to run until evening but before the program, I would have been so tempted to leave it but instead, I went out and had an enjoyable run.

On Saturday I did my virtual parkrun in 28’00 which was quite good as the route I take was quite busy as the land train path was super busy and next to it on the grass they were setting up for today’s carnival.

Today I was working in the late morning, I was gutted as it meant missing the club’s sports day organised by the girl’s captain. It looks so much fun on Facebook. Anyway, I was up and out early to do my 60-minute easy-paced session. It was great as the roads were still quiet. I managed 5.4-miles.

This week, on Twitter, I noticed the British Athletics Paralympic pathway was appealing for 11-19 year-olds to try out. I was 19, in 2003, and I must say how far parasports have come. Yes, I live in a quiet seaside town and it was before the birth of social media but there were few opportunities, if any, out there. I would have loved the chance so if you know anyone fitting the bill please give it a shout-out.

Take care N x

Learning

This week has been a learning curve about pacing and managing an injury. Firstly on Tuesday I had a really enjoyable training session with the club. On Thursday, I continued to follow my AJ coaching training with an interval session. I was still going off too fast when doing my 800m intervals but I managed to do all 4 goes in a similar time. Doing these sessions, I am learning to judge my pacing better, still room for improvement, but I can judge the speed I’m doing. Unfortunately, after the session, the back of my left thigh hurt and it continued into Friday so I rested it.

I didn’t do my virtual parkrun as I was doing a 10K today so I did an easy-paced 45-minute run. I actually did my parkrun route but took the clifftop path rather than the land train path coming down the cliffs. It was enjoyable and my leg was OK so I was really pleased.

This morning, I took part in the Hutton Cranswick 10k. It was run as a fundraiser as a local runner is trying to raise funds to get her McMillan place at the London Marathon. It was a very relaxed atmosphere despite the rain. I really enjoyed it but my leg began to ache at 8km so I decided just to slow down but still managed a time of 57’33 which considering my leg issue I was delighted with. Being Bridlington Road Runners makes me proud, the club was competing in two races and every member at each venue cheered the last participant which is great to see.

This week is week 6 of my training, and with no races, I am looking forward to the sessions,

Take care N x

Sense and PB

This week started having to have my sensible head on. Monday was a rest day anyway, but Tuesday dawned with the head we had been warned about. It was the last race of the East Hull Harriers summer league, a 4-mile race in Hedon, about an hour drive from home. I really wanted to do it as it has been a fab series to run and the last one of this year after a 2-year absence. I just came to the conclusion that it would be 32C and the two-hour round trip with work the next day would be too much. Instead, my sister and I did a 3-mile run from the leisure centre along the cliffs and back. It was still hot but the sea breeze and lack of the urge to race was good. We met friends and my cousin, which was unexpected so that was nice.

@AJcoaching had factored in the weather to my training program, so on Thursday and Friday I had an easy-paced 30-minute run. I must admit when I first did these runs at an easy pace I found them slow but now I’ve learned to appreciate my surroundings more.

Yesterday, for the first time in months, I managed to have a Saturday off work meaning I could do Sewerby parkrun. I started off getting pulled along and did 8’21 which I never intended. Mile 2 on grass was good and I managed to negotiate the difficult woodlands and the dreaded steps to beat my previous PB by 8 seconds in 28’43.

Today I did an easy-paced 45-minute run, I was joined by my sister then I left her to complete a longer distance.

Next week, I have the Hutton Cranswick 10K which is a brand new race so it will be interesting.

Take care N x

Variety

This week, I have been running, kayaking and Swimming. I haven’t been swimming for ages due to one thing and another so it was great to get back into our local pool (East Riding Leisure Bridlington). I actually found it easier than I thought as I expected to be a bit rusty. In the evening, I did my usual club run through Sewerby Park.

On Thursday for the first time this year we went kayaking at North Yorkshire Water Park. I find it really relaxing and although it did try to rain it was very pleasant. I don’t get to do it very often but thoroughly enjoyed it. After returning home I did my interval session which was part of my training plan by AJ Coaching. It was my second go at this kind of session and I definitely improved on my first.

On Friday I did an easy 30-minute run and yesterday I completed my virtual parkrun. I did it in 28’26 but I had to avoid traffic in the first mile and then it was too busy once I reached the seafront so all things considered I was pleased.

This morning, I was up and out early to complete my easy 60-minute run in order to avoid the heat and the crowds. I set off in light rain which was a bit of a surprise. I have found my training plan so useful, for example, today I wouldn’t usually get up and go early, so as it got hot this afternoon I wouldn’t have done a run. It’s not for everyone but I’m finding it a real motivation and it’s making running for me, more interesting.

The coming week has a question mark next to it due to the heatwave. I am meant to be doing the last East Hull Harriers summer league race. It’s a 4-miles race in Hedon followed by a presentation afterward. I’m hoping it is not too hot for me to race as I do struggle with the heat. I have Saturday off work so I can do a ‘real’ parkrun, I think it’s meant to be cooler so it will be interesting to see how I fare.

Take care and stay cool, N x

Best week ever!!

This week has been incredible I don’t know how I’m doing it but even after one-week @aj_running_coach training program, I’ve seen an improvement in my running.

Tuesday evening saw the return of the East Hull Harriers summer league with the furthest of the races a 7.5-mile one. I decided to enjoy it as I’ve only done one race beyond 10K before. I set off with three teammates and after 2 miles I felt comfortable, they did go ahead, they are faster but I managed to keep one of them in sight. After 6 miles I began to flag but just before 7, a gentlemen came behind me and I was determined to keep in front and did. He encouraged me and shook my hand at the end. To me, this incident is another example of why I love running, yes we want to do our best but encouraging others is a joy too. I did it in 1:08:43. I was even more delighted when I realised I’d done a 5k and 10k PB, both at the start. First 5k 26’52, first 10K 55’51.

Wednesday was a rest day followed by a 30-minute easy-paced run on Thursday.

On Friday I did the Walkington 10K, a beautiful but hilly course. It was the first race after COVID last year and it was a complete nightmare for me, so I just wanted to better my 2019 time of 59’15 and I’m pleased to say, despite struggling with the heat towards the end I did it in 57’54.

I didn’t do virtual parkrun as it was a rest day yesterday and my legs ached after the two races but I found today’s 60-minute easy-paced run fine although I felt tired in the heat towards the end.

Take care N x

Training Program and Gym Instructing

Where to start – I have completed week 1 of my @AJrunningcoach 4 -week training program. I have done 30-minute and 60-minute slower pace sessions as I want to work on my pacing. I have a tendency to go off full pelt then I can’t sustain it so my main aim is to be more evenly paced. I also did a good interval session which I’ve never really done before which I found difficult but now I have completed all the sessions I feel I have got the hang of it. Unfortunately, on today’s 60-minute run my Garmin watch decided to have a mind of its own and didn’t show any of the route I did, fortunately, my sister was running with me and her watch seemed to be working so we worked off that.

I completed my virtual parkrun route yesterday and got my pacing a lot more even although the last 1.1-mile was into a headwind. I was pleased with my time 27’47 given the conditions.

I have also enjoyed supporting my @BridlingtonRoadRunners (via Facebook) participating in the Endure 24 challenge near Leeds. I had originally put my name down but running and camping would be too difficult for me but I enjoyed seeing all my teammates’ achievements.

My big achievement of the week is passing my Level 2 Gym instructors qualification, it was hard work but I got there.

Next week I am continuing with my training plan but also competing in the East Hull Harriers summer league 7.5-mile race on Tuesday night followed by the Walkington 10K race on Friday night.

Take care N x

Learning

I have posted this photo to show that running isn’t easy and sometimes you are just relieved to complete a race. As I said in my last post previous to this week I haven’t done the miles this month as it was hot on holiday. This, coupled with my silly notion that I have to get out of the blocks, meant I paid a price and learned a lesson at the Coniston 10K on Tuesday.

I set off, it was hot and I shot off to do an 8-minute 22-second mile, it was way too fast and I paid for it the rest of the way. Miles 2,3 and 4 were OK but people were just passing me. It became a real mental test and I did the last two miles at over 10 minute pace which I haven’t done in a race for ages.

With the lessons learned I then had a meeting with @AJRunningCoach on Wednesday evening. I won a free 4-week training plan on Twitter the other week. The timing couldn’t have been more right. I explained my pacing issue and he said it was a common problem so that is one of the areas we are going to focus on. I received my week one plan which starts tomorrow. I haven’t ever tried anything like this before so I’m excited to see what happens.

I didn’t have time to go running on Thursday as I am completing a gym instructor’s course, I would love to help other people get the enjoyment and benefit that I do out of sport whatever their goals and reasons for doing it.

I had a really good run on Friday and completed my virtual parkrun in 27’49. I was really pleased as it was more evenly paced although towards the end my route was getting really busy with people.

Today I completed a 3.5-mile run, it was good although tough in places as it was a full-on head-wind.

Take care N x

Holiday and Heat

Well sorry, I’ve not posted for a while but I have been on an amazing holiday to Switzerland and just haven’t found time so apologies.

Firstly, the week commencing the 30th May was a good one, I did a good club training run and I decided to do RED June. I participated in the club’s virtual Jubilee relay, we were virtually running from Brid to Buckingham Palace and back to deliver the Queen a card over the long weekend. My leg was 5 miles on Thursday which went really well I managed over 20 miles which is the most I’d done for weeks. This cumulated in doing my virtual parkrun on 4th June and managing a new PB of 27’04. I managed to do a good 3-mile run before we went on the Sunday.

Whilst on holiday I tried to do a run with my sister every day, between 1 and 3 miles but the weather was warm except the first night when we ran in the rain. It was going well until the Sunday when the temperature hit the late 20s and I struggled so I stopped running. I next went running on Wednesday, after our return on Tuesday, and I must say I am still struggling a bit although I was pleased with my virtual parkrun yesterday in 27’27.

On Tuesday I return to racing action as I have a 10K race in the East Hull Harriers league so I am hoping it will help with my mojo. I missed one whilst I was away. I also have won a 4-week training program with @AJcoaching so I will be interested to see how my running progresses completing that.

Take care N x

10K PB

This week has definitely been the best for a few weeks. I have been struggling with my motivation mainly due to the lack of time I have.

Tuesday night I was all prepared for the next race in the East Hull Harriers League – a 10K race I did in 2019. I went off too fast then and faded in the second half so mindful of that I just let my legs take me to 5K and I was happy with my pace. At the water stop, I made the conscious decision not to take water as having some at Beverley the other week made me have a stitch. I kept focus but managed a few words with runners as they passed but I kept on and achieved a new 34-second PB completing the course in 56’41. Even more surprising to the others watching us as the photo shows, I look strong at the finish whereas I usually look like I could collapse.

I had a few gentle runs on Thursday and Friday before completing my virtual Parkrun. I had to change the course last week due to the kite festival and as it was less crowded I decided to stick with it. Despite having to pause at one road due to a car I was delighted (but frustrated) to miss my 5k PB by 4 seconds, doing it in 27’16.

Last night I had a surprise on Twitter and Facebook as @Parkrunuk had republished the article they did on me in November last year. The photo published was of me completing my first parkrun with my sister at Sewerby in August 2018. Comparing that photo to the one on Tuesday I can’t believe the difference.

This week is quiet, training on Tuesday followed by 5-miles on Thursday for my leg of the club’s virtual Jubilee relay.

Take care and stay safe N x

No Time!!

This week has been really difficult as I have struggled to fit in running with work commitments and doing my college course. I have only managed just over 14-miles this week which is the lowest weekly mileage for ages.

I enjoyed doing the club training run on Tuesday as now it is lighter nights we have more routes to do. We did just over 5-miles partly through woodlands, which is a challenge but I enjoy the different scenery.

I didn’t get running again until Friday when I saw a new postbox topper had appeared near us so I completed just over a mile to incorporate seeing it.

Yesterday was virtual Parkrun, which I knew my usual route would be busy due to a kite festival taking place, which by the way I love to see so I had to improvise. My first two miles were superb but during the third, a dog jumped at me and I lost focus and my rhythm. I did it in 28’30. Today my sister and I went for a 4.3-mile run along the cliff tops to see the kites, it was a steady run as we have a 10K race in the East Hull League on Tuesday. The last time I did the Leven 10K in 2019, I did my fastest 5k (up to a few months ago) followed by one of my slowest, so it will be interesting to see how I go.

Take care N x

Bites

Apologies for the lack of update last week, I had a very busy but successful weekend. First, on Saturday (7th May), I managed to beat my 5k PB on my usual virtual parkrun course, doing it in 27’09. Then, on Sunday, I completed the Beverley 10K, a course I love but unfortunately I got a bit of an ache after the water stop which slowed me down slightly but still managed 57’50.

I love this photo, it shows me running with concentration. This was taken on Tuesday night in action at the latest East Hull Harriers summer league, 4-miles around East Park Hull which I really enjoyed. I did most of the course as the parkrun on New Year’s Day so knew most of the route. I was pleased with my time of 36’40.

On Wednesday I realised I had been bitten by an insect I think during the race on Tuesday which is really annoying so had to stick with short runs on Thursday and Friday so it didn’t pull on the wound and make it worse.

Yesterday, I completed my virtual parkrun in 27’29, which pleased me as the route is getting busier and also the time represents, I am getting consistent.

Today I fancied a change so I set myself the challenge of hunting post box toppers, I have seen a few near the seafront so headed in the opposite direction. On a route of 16 post boxes, one I couldn’t find, none had toppers on them. Although that was a bit disappointing I enjoyed my wander on my 5.5-mile route.

Take care and stay safe N x

Frustration and Steady Sunday Run

This week has been a mix. Due to work and other commitments (including having a brilliant social night out with the Road Runners girls) I have not got out training much, in fact, I only have done 3 runs.

Tuesday saw the second race of the East Hull Harriers summer league – a 6-miler around Sproatley. Disaster struck moments before the race as I lost one of my number pins taking off my hoodie, fortunately, mum had a spare pin, this was after problems with my kneepads staying up. So when the race started I was flustered but determined but unfortunately, despite checking them before the start, my shoelace came undone. I was fuming inside, I continued but I let my annoyance get the better of me, so the photo above by my friend Bob, is me looking shocking and annoyed yards before the finish. On the plus side, somehow despite everything, I beat my 2019 time by 20 seconds finishing in 57’18.

My next outing was my virtual Parkrun yesterday, I was looking forward to it and it helped me regain my confidence. Unfortunately, my route on the seafront is busier at the moment but I was faster than last week in a time of 28’04.

Today, my sister and I couldn’t decide where to go but we ended up going through the local woodlands, Danes Dykes, which is a route due to the uneven terrain I wouldn’t manage on my own. We came back on the clifftop. I was impressed averaging 10:38 per mile but most of all I wasn’t interested in my time and just enjoyed the challenge and the different route.

Next week I have the Beverley 10K, it will be the 3rd time I have done the race, and am looking forward to it. After Tuesday I am going to be better prepared and try not to panic if things go wrong

Take care and stay safe N x

Good training week

This week has been one of the best training weeks for a long time. I have been running with my sister on Monday, Thursday, and Friday. It certainly makes a difference to me to have company on my runs. I did a great 5-mile run on Monday as I was off work due to a bank holiday and had a really good run on Thursday. We went all over town and managed a 5-mile run at an even pace. We did a steady recovery 2-mile run on Friday.

Training on Tuesday was good, we are now doing different routes due to lighter nights. Being able to different routes helps with varying the runs which does seem to help my pace. This was after doing a good swim session that morning.

Yesterday I did my virtual parkrun in the afternoon. I was quite pleased with it as a howling wind had developed overnight. I did it in 28’44 which I felt was good in the conditions. Today I set off to do a steady 3-4- mile run as I have the second East Hull Harriers league race on Tuesday. After 1.5-miles my left calf felt uncomfortable so I decided to stop and walk home. This is something I wouldn’t have done a few months ago as I am determined on every run but I have learned I need to listen to my body and I didn’t want to ruin the good work.

I will be fine for the 6-mile race in Sproatley on Tuesday, again one I did in 2019 so I can’t wait to see what I can do

Take care and stay safe N x

Racing

This week, the racing season kicked in, all the races that were planned for 2020 have now returned so its full steam ahead. After recovering from my fall the previous week and matching my 5K PB last weekend, I was full of excitement for the first race of the East Hull Harriers Tuesday night league. I did a couple of the races in 2019, my first out-of-club races for the experience but was interested to see my progress. It was a 5-mile route around New Ellerby, and although I thought I had improved I still hadn’t learned about pacing. I went off in an 8.29-minute mile and slowly got slower. Overall, I did 50-seconds quicker which did please me but feel I could have done better with a more even pace.

I had a rest day on Wednesday, and only did a mile on Thursday in preparation for the Easter 5-mile dash. This time I went with a plan, I knew I needed to get out fast as the woods and rough terrain is at the end of the course. It was beautiful to race along the cliffs and through Sewerby Park. I really enjoyed this challenge and was delighted to knock off nearly 3-minutes off the time I did in 2019.

Yesterday I did the virtual Parkrun, my legs were OK but a bit tired. I managed to complete it in 27’44 which I was really pleased with as the route along the cliffs was busier than normal.

Today I worked so did a gentle 1.7-mile run. The coming week has no scheduled races so I am just training before completing my virtual Parkrun on Saturday.

Take care and stay safe N x

No, I haven’t been in a fight!

Straight to the drama of the week, on Tuesday we were approaching the end of our club training run when I saw the other training group so decided to wave. Big Mistake, next thing I know I am flat on my face on the floor!! As you know, from previous posts, falling is usually a non-event for me, but I must admit it shook me up. As you can see I bashed my face so we walked back to the leisure centre, I am grateful for my friends who looked after me and when we got back mum patched me up. Unfortunately, ever since at both places I work, customers and colleagues have asked me who I fought. Some have even said if I had maybe I would have faired better.

Tuesday had started off well with an excellent session in the gym, I think perhaps I did too much. After I decided to have Wednesday and Thursday to recover so on Friday, I did a steady 5-mile run which gave me confidence again.

Yesterday was not parkrun day, and after my excellent run last week and the events of the week I expected just to do an OK one but to my surprise and delight I was 0.001 seconds slower than last week. Today I was called into work last minute so I only managed a 3.3-mile run which felt good.

This week the season really kicks off with two 5-mile races, one on Tuesday and one on Friday. I am really looking forward to it, I have done them both once in 2019, so it will be interesting to compare my performances.

Take Care and Stay Safe N x

Holiday and Highlights

I must apologise for not posting last weekend but I was enjoying a few days away with the family although it didn’t mean not running, quite the opposite. We went to Skipton for a long weekend, so my sister and I ran along the canal to the local Park to check out the parkrun course on Friday. We discovered a nice tarmacked course but a very undulating one. So with this information, we turned up on Saturday morning for the four and a bit lap course and our parents came along to support us. There was an out and back section and I misjudged the turn the first time and rolled my ankle so I was cautious after that, so I was pleased with my time of 28’36. On Sunday we did a 6-mile there and back run along the canal towpath, the weather was lovely and it was so nice to have different scenery to appreciate. On Monday, on our return, my sister and I did a 3.5-mile run to Sewerby and the seafront.

Tuesday was a swim session followed by a great 5.2-mile run with the running club. Due to work and other commitments my next session was in the gym. It didn’t start off well as I forgot my coin for the locker but after that was solved, it was good, although not my best session. Late after I decided to go for a 3.4-mile run which I enjoyed.

Yesterday was Virtual Parkrun day and my legs didn’t feel the best after Friday as I did my warm-up. So I was shocked when I discovered I was on course for a 5K PB. I managed to keep going and knocked 4-seconds off in a time of 27’16. I was over the moon

Buoyed by yesterday, I decided to just go for a run, without a particular route in mind I did 6.72-miles. It certainly helped to be on the club’s Facebook group as several members were racing today which gave me the motivation to go out and enjoy running.

Take care and stay safe N x

Ups and downs

The previous week to the one just gone I felt demotivated and my running was a struggle. I was finding it difficult to fit it in around my other commitments. I enjoyed club training, did a gym session, and did an OK Parkrun, but I lost a bit of interest.

However this week, especially towards the end, my perseverance paid off. I have been out with my sister twice, one short and one long run and it certainly has helped my speed. I had a good training session with the club on Tuesday, though we did have a conversation about long and short miles. We were going at a decent pace but the mileage didn’t seem to go up.

On Friday, I had a review of my gym program, which has certainly helped. Annette, my instructor gave me some new exercises and ideas to make the existing ones harder. I then did a 5.5-mile run at a great pace in the afternoon.

Yesterday, I wasn’t sure how my legs would feel after Friday but to my amazement, I only missed out on my 5K PB by 2 seconds which I was really pleased with. I thought it was going well in mile 1 but my pace seem to drop too much uphill in mile 2 but I stormed mile 3.

My excellent Parkrun, the fact the club has released their summer handicap races and I have entered the East Hull Harriers summer league has really spurred me on. I did a few races in the summer league in 2019, but obviously, it hasn’t run for the past two years so it will be interesting to compare my performances.

Take care N x

Recovering and Surprises

So after the high of my time in the 10-mile Snake Lane last Sunday. Monday was definitely a recovery day as getting up and about was a struggle. Tuesday my body felt better and I enjoyed our steady 5-mile run at the club. Just before the session I was flicking through Instagram and spotted @Parkrunuk had put on the quote above. It was part of the International Women Day support at parkrun this week. I was really surprised but excited and even more surprised when they re-published my story which they first published in November.

Thursday was a glorious day so I really enjoyed a 6-mile run on the cliff tops. It was certainly more settled than it was yesterday when I did my virtual Parkrun but I was pleased with my time of 28’47 given the conditions.

I got back to the Leisure centre this week with a good swimming session on Friday. I love Feeling the water gushing past you as you swim. I find the lane ropes helpful as when I do backstroke due to my disability, one side is stronger than the other I zig-zag a lot.

I am enjoying the Winter Paralympics which started on Friday, supporting @Paralympicsgb. Seeing all the athletes with their different disabilities is so interesting. Looking back, London 2012 Paralympics, where I was a Gamesmaker, changed people’s perception and the @discoveryourgold campaign in 2018, which was on the back of those games certainly changed my view and got me running.

Take care and stay safe N x

Back Racing!!

At the beginning of the week, I was still struggling with the weather conditions but I managed to get my mojo back and had a good run with Bridlington Road Runners on Tuesday.

On Monday and Thursday as I didn’t have much time due to working I just did a quick mile around the block with my sister. On Friday, in order to help me get my confidence back, I decided to do the 5-mile run-up to hospital hill. I really enjoyed it and it gave me a boost for the weekend.

Yesterday I was on holiday from work so I did Sewerby parkrun. I should have taken it easier in preparation for today but it’s just not in me to do so. I managed to do it in 29’18, which in fact is my second fastest time on the course.

Today was the day I have been anticipating, my first competitive 10-mile race. Fortunately, the weather was good, it was sunny, not too cold and the wind had dropped. It was a bit of a headwind for the second half of the race but not too bad. I did 10-miles on my own, last year when the race is usually on, within Bridlington in 1.45.01 so I was aiming for 1 hour 40 minutes. I set off, slower than I usually do but slightly faster than I wanted but I felt great. In the last two miles, there is a couple of hills which my legs weren’t fond of, but I was delighted with my 1.34.47. The race was well-organised and we all got a hoodie.

My plans for the coming week are to take it easy and hopefully get a gym session in and go swimming.

Take care and stay safe N x

STORMS!!!

The start of the week was good, on Tuesday I did a gym session and went to club training in the evening which I really enjoyed. The gym program I got devised in December is keeping me motivated.

Unfortunately, I haven’t got out much due to the weather since. I did a 2-mile run with my sister on Thursday and had an excellent swim session on Friday.

I was all ready to do my virtual parkrun yesterday as it was glorious skies when I got up but unfortunately, by the time I finished work at 1pm, the skies had darkened and the wind had got up. Mum, Amy, and I decided to go for a walk and it snowed and sleeted. On the way back it was energy-sapping as it was very slippy and with my disability, I find these conditions more challenging than others.

Today, although it was windy I managed to get out with Amy before the rain came. We went along the cliffs which was head-wind so again quite challenging. I didn’t look at my watch so was quite impressed to see I had done 3.4-miles at a 10:14 pace in those conditions.

I am really hoping the weather improves as I have my first competitive 10-mile race next week. I am feeling quite nervous as I haven’t done as much running recently and also waiting to see what the forecast is. It is a case of wishing me good luck!!!

Take care and stay very safe N x

Windy Weather

The last ten days have gone in a flash. Running-wise they got off to a great start. I really enjoyed the road-runners training session last Tuesday. I did a great 7-mile run with my sister on Thursday morning. We did it at a 10-minute mile pacing which really pleased me and it gave my confidence a boost before my 10-mile race on the 27th February.

On Friday we ran down to the leisure centre and went swimming which I thoroughly enjoyed. Then my running went off a bit as the weather turned. I was working Saturday morning and by the time I’d finished the rain and more dangerously the wind had arrived. For about the first time I decided doing the virtual parkrun on my own was too risky so I did 30-minutes on my own exercise bike. The weather was still dodgy on Sunday morning so I just did a mile.

Today the weather has improved so I’m looking forward to club running tonight after a great gym session earlier today.

The next week looks tricky as I have quite a lot of work and two storms are forecast so I’ll just have to wait and hope for the best.

Stay safe and take care N x

Enjoyment

This week has been a good one, it started on Tuesday with a run to Bridlington road runners training then joined my friends who are coming back into running with a run/walk. We managed to get further than we did two weeks previous. I love helping friends achieve their goals.

On Thursday in addition to doing quite a lot of walking, I did 30 minutes easy paced run which went well. I repeated this session on Friday and yesterday which saw me improve each day. I did a bit extra both days to get back home.

Today I was hoping to longer run but time got away so I did 3 miles just running, had to slow in places to cross roads.

Take care N x

Good Week

This has being my most productive week in two months with lots of variety.

On Tuesday I ran to running club for a while where three of us did a run/walk as my friend is getting back into running. I really enjoyed this as we chatted and got some miles in.

On Thursday I ran to the gym and did a really good session including the exercise bike, stair stepper and cross trainer as well as doing the weight resistance machines for strength.

On Friday I did my favourite session in quite a while, 45 minutes easy followed by 8 x 20 seconds fast with a minutes rest in between. It went OK but I had to keep stopping to cross roads. It’s a session to keep revisiting.

Yesterday I did Sewerby parkrun as part of the club’s summer league and did it in 34’33 which was OK, it was hot. I did lose momentum at the start of the woods but managed to regain it.

Today I ran out of time but managed to fit in 4 miles, again at a slower pace I found it much easier and a lot more enjoyable.

Take care N x

Slower But Enjoyed it more

This week the heat continued and after work on Tuesday I was too hot to run. Thursday was the same but I was getting frustrated so I decided to go for a shorter run, (3 miles) at a slower pace I found it much easier and a lot more enjoyable,

Learning from Thursday I did the same on Friday but managed 4 miles. In July I only managed 36 miles due to the heat and personal circumstances.

Determined to up my game ysterday I don’t know why I ran short of time but got myself out for 1.6 miles.

Today

Take care N x

REFOCUSING

The past few weeks have been testing due to family circumstances which has made me look at life differently and made me have new priorities. Due to this I am no longer doing Royal Parks Half marathon but have entered the Bridlington Road Runners Eddie Knapp challenge at the beginning of September.

On Tuesday I managed to go to the gym and had a really good session which was pleasing as I had not been for a while.

Thursday saw me join the Bridlington Road Runners away evening at Kilham in the walking group.

Friday, Saturday and today I did 30 minutes easy paced plus a bit extra to get back home. I’m very pleased that I’ve managed to be consistent for the past 3 days.

Take care N x

HEATWAVE

This week’s training has centred around the temperature. I was really looking forward to the next race of the East Hull Harriers Summer league a 10K but I decided it was too hot and I would really struggle so decided to give it a miss.

Thursday ssaw me go out first thing in the mist/fog to avoid the heat. I did just over 4 miles, I thoroughly enjoyed it as it was a very strange but good atmosphere.

On Friday I did 30 minutes easy paced plus a bit extra to get home. I repeated it today and both sessions went well.

Yesterday I was off work so did the Sewerby parkrun even at 9am it was warm and muggy so just decided not to go for time just enjoy it.

Even though my pace has been slower I have enjoyed running this week. I was meant to start a 16 week program for my Royal Half Marathon in October but the heat was too much but I’ve managed to keep my legs and mileage ticking over

Take care N x

HOT

This week started on a real positive on Tuesday morning I actually made it to the gym and did a really good session. I must try and get to the gym more regularly. On Tuesday evening I went for a four mile run and I beat my time from the previous week.

Thursday saw the second race in the Bridlington Road Runners summer league, the Carnaby Canter. A multi terrain which is road and a couple of fields and uneven footpaths. It was very hot and I had to run/walk it as I lacked confidence on the uneven surfaces. I did it in 1 hour 15, 4 minutes slower than last year but it was very hot and everyone’s times were slower.

Friday I joined my club mates for a walk as part of the club’s memorial night.

Today I did 60 minutes easy paced. Haven’t run since Thursday due to heat and tired legs. Nice wind so really enjoying it.

I aam hoping to do a 10K on Tuesday as part of the East Hull summer league but I think I’ll decide on the day as its meant to be very hot.

Take care N x

BEING SENSIBLE

My biggest downfall in the past was not knowing when giving up was actually the most sensible thing to do but how times have changed.

On Tuesday I started the East Hull Harriers Summer league race, a 7 miler. It was a much smaller field then previous races. After a mile I found the pace too fast and although I knew I could finish I knew I wouldn’t enjoy it so I pulled out. It was the right decision and am quite proud of myself for doing this.

On Thursday I was keen to prove to myself I could do longer distance so I set out in the drizzle/rain and did it in 1:38:20. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

On Friday I did an easy paced 30 minutes which went well followed by 4 miles yesterday.

Today I did 60 minutes easy paced run which was a bit hard work at times but over 5 miles. This took me over 20 miles for the week

I have a 10k race on Thursday within the club. It challenged for me as it is a bit off road but I’m looking forward to the challenge.

Take care N x

BACK ON TRACK

After losing my voice a few weeks ago then with the intense heat the momentum I gained from the Beverley 10k and 4 miles in East Hull had stalled but I am now fully fit and the weather is pleasant.

On Tuesday I did a 60 minutes easy paced run which went really well. On Thursday I was going for a longer run in preparation for my 7 mile race but I cut it short for a call of nature. Also I joined the Bridlington Road Runners first away night and did a lovely walk around nearby Rudston.

Friday saw me do an excellent 45 minutes easy paced followed by 8 x 20 seconds fast with a minutes recovery in between. In the evening I supported my sister and club mates at the Sledmere sunset trail. The course is too rough for me but I really enjoy the event.

Yesterday I did a 33 minutes aiming for 10.35 min pace, which I was pleased with and it was really nice evening.

Today I did 1 hour 2 minutes easy paced. It went well but the wind took my breath away as it was very blustery on the cliff top but enjoyed it

Overall a good weeks training and managed my highest weekly mileage since August 2024. I am a bit nervous about 7 miles on Tuesday but I know I can do it.

Take care N x

NIGGLES AND HEAT

After losing my voice last weekend with an improvement on Monday I decided to test my breathing out with a short 1.6 mile run which went well.

On Tuesday I was meant to be doing the next race in the East Hull summer league, a 10k but as my voice wasn’t 100% and it was very hot I decided to skip it and just did an easy paced 30 minutes which went really good and it was nice with a breeze on the seafront.

On Thursday I went to the gym which is the first time in weeks. It was tough and I concentrated on the weight machines.

On Friday it was very warm so I decided just to keep my legs ticking over with a 1.6 mile run.

Yesterday it was still hot so I repeated Tuesdays session which went well but not as good. Later in the evening I pulled the back of my leg reaching for something it was painful. It has got better as the day has gone on today but decided against running as a precaution.

It is now the end of May and for various reasons my training is not being as consistent as I hoped so I made the decision to not do the Royal Parks half marathon in October and just concentrate on local and club events.

Take care N x

One good One bad

Unfortunately having one good week one seem to becoming a regular occurrence..

This week I was working extra so knew training would be limited and it didn’t start well as I was going to go for a long run first thing Tuesday but the heavens really opened. The weather did get better later so I managed a 30 minute easy paced run which went well.

On Thursday I volunteered at the second 5k race in a club series. I missed the first one due to other commitments and the next one in woods so I marshalled and really enjoyed it.

Friday was meant to see me get on track but I lost my voice and didn’t think it was a good idea. I haven’t run since but it is improving. I meant to be back in action at the East Hull summer league, a 10k but I’ll see what it’s like.

Take care N x