Training Log Archive: Thraws

Didn't do this very well. Probably started too fast, but the cut-off at 1200 about 7 miles in looked very tight. As it was I was just outside, but given I was still in front half of the field at this point it was unlikely they were going to pull out half the race. Powered up the first climb with Lu without problem but was storing up muscle trouble for later. Actually 'raced' the first ridge but I was already walking some of the ups mostly because of the rocky going underfoot. After the 'cut off' at the water station I relaxed. The second big climb was real hard in the heat, and despite eating everything I had, I couldn't get going again when we got to the top. I probably ran for no more than a few seconds together after this. The 'downs' over the Beacons offered no respite as the braking effect on quads and painful toes made everyone grimace. The 'last' hill was a consolation, but there was still a heck of a lot of rough rocky path ahead and I got passed by a fair few - mostly women - here. I had no response. Staggered over the line quite comfortably ahead of the sweeper in the end, but I was a long way off my hoped-for time. Only when I got a view the next day of the race route as a whole did I gain a sense of the achievement, given that this is an arduous 10-12 hour walk for anyone daft enough to tackle it in one go. 23rd position after the first climb had become 37th (out of 53) by the end. 7th V50+ out of 12.

Bit of a risk doing this with the Beacons 20 mile Fell Race tomorrow, so the focus was on how I'd feel at the finish. Which was marginally better than usual. Had rivals Slogs and Luddles present but put them out of mind and concentrated on style and effort. Time and position weren't too bad considering, so Chris can take all the credit for his 17 second victory. He got a gap on second hill and probably wanted it more. Hot!

Feeling a bit depressed because of parting with another much-loved car, so thought I'd put myself through the physical wringer. Like you do. Not sure about training opportunities for the Velo between now and back to school either, so thought I'd have a go at 75 miles and see how it went with the wrists. Trick seemed to be to take it a bit easier and change position on the bike as much as poss. Finished second Emsworth lap thinking if I feel like this on the third all will be well. And I wasn't far off! Wrists were kicking in at this point, heading towards 60 miles, but I seemed to come through that. Started to think about adding a Bosham extension which would get me up to 80, which is all I really need to manage ahead of the day. OK, conditions were perfect and a pit stop on second lap seemed to really help (ie eat before getting in the red) but I've given myself my confidence back. 80 miles is a long way to drive. I just biked it! Kudos! Lap splits were roughly 1.25s/1.45. Average speed just above 13mph.