Training Log Archive: nmulder

0700 - Ran the first race in the Summer Trail Series, at a farm at the base of the Magaliesberg near Hekpoort. Only realised on the way there that this meant we'd be going up it. Mountain Run would be more appropriate than Trail Run.

Course was very tough, with most of the distance weaving our way up the slope on rocky scree slopes. Breathtaking views on top of the Magaliesberg before plunging back down to the finish. Finished 17th. Was quite happy as I managed to run at about 80%, despite feeling yesterday's exertions. Debbie was 3rd lady.

1040 - After the trail run Debbie and I drove to Maanhaarrand Cafe and did an over and back of Breedt's Nek. Very hot and felt awful to start with, but got into a rhythm quickly. Paced ourselves nicely, getting to the Breedts Nek Cafe on the other side in 45 min.

Quite a number of other people on the pass, some of them totally under-prepared for it, which proved quite entertaining. Got back down from the top of the pass back to the car in 11 minutes. Av 15.3 and Mx 50.7

Once again, no rollerblading, as I was too exhausted after this. Bike goes in for final service this week, so now's the time to start tapering for Portugal XPD.

0800 - Did 1 lap of the tar circuit at Suikerbosrand this morning with Ryno, Susan and Debbie. Beautiful morning, very quiet, with not even 1 car on the main circuit. Not much in the way of wildlife, just a few roadies that we overtook every so often. Large drops of rain in the last 2 minutes before we got back into the main parking area. We then spent the next 30 minutes under a carport avoiding a massive thunderstorm. Av 19.6 Mx 66.5

1215 - Rollerblading was cancelled due to the wet roads; too close to Portugal now to do something stupid on them. Mac unfortunately didn't make it through in time (he did his own thing on a short loop), so Debbie, Ryno and I headed off on the standard east loop of the overnight trails (Duiker hut, etc.). One hour in and the next lighter thunderstorm hit, but from then on we had consistent rain. The last hour was the worst, heavy winds, intermittent heavy rains. Very colds hands, but at least the speed picked up so that we stayed warm. We cut short the loop down to Springbok hut. Some of the trails have started to overgrow and are in serious need of maintenance.

No training today... not that I didn't want to... it just didn't happen.

Will make up for it over the weekend!

1200.

1945 - Long distance team paddle at night on Emmarentia. I paddled the Renegade with Ryno. 30 laps, broken into 10, 10, 5 and 5, changing direction after each set and about a 2 minute drink break for the 2 main stops. Paddling at night is definitely more enjoyable then the day. Felt suprisingly good the whole way. I was able to keep my technique going the full distance, something I could never do a few years ago.

C • Long paddle 3

Hip is improving quickly. Probably back to training tomorrow.

1200 - Still managed to get in a good bio session today by focusing on shoulder and leg exercises. Hip injury has started recovering already.