Training Log Archive: Thraws

Oh dear, ran like an idiot. Ended up in the front row on the start line so hared off too fast and got passed by hordes going up the first hill. These included PL and Steve K, so I decided the steadier pace I'd settled on was too slow. Thereafter was ok going downhill but really struggled on the ups and so kept swapping places with people round me. By halfway Steve must have had almost 100yds lead and looked strong so I figured it would be his day and I just dug in. I never got a second wind or anything but realised I was slowly catching him on the downs, and eventually raced past inside the last mile. Tried to look fit but wasn't, but I think he sort of resigned himself. Finished some way down a huge field and never once felt 'right', but enjoyed the route and will feel happier about things if I manage to score 9 points. Also, another tick on the WSFRL list. Three left I think.

Final short stretch from Bideford back along Torridge estuary and through Appledore to Westward Ho!, where we resumed the path in May 2014. Rain fell for the most atmospheric part of the day around Northam Burrows, but the very easy day seems to have allowed my shin to recover. Had booked a seat on the Lundy ferry today but it was cancelled because of high winds which never materialised. Bah! Just Polzeath down to Lands End to go now. October half-term?

With all the cyclists along the Tarka Trail from Braunton, through Barnstaple and Fremington Quay to Bideford Bridge. Then a second bus back to Instow where I'd left the car. I think the uniform walking style along the old railway gave me a pain in my left shin by the end. Even hotter, but there were plenty of places to buy water and ice cream.

Drove to Braunton, got the 21 bus to Ilfracombe, then resumed the coast path walk from where it was left off in April 2013. Through Lee Bay, past Bull and Morte Points, along Woolacombe Sands, round Baggy Point, behind Braunton Burrows, and up the Taw and Caen estuaries to Braunton. So a day of contrasts but all of it very good. Bit hot earlier but lovely walking into the evening on easy coastal paths.