Into the unknown…

15 miles in 2:16:11
Route: Richmond circuit 2

This represents a milestone for me. It is the furthest I have ever run!

My previous longest run was the Windsor Half Marathon in September 2005. Today, I went almost two miles further than that – and that doesn’t include the mile warm up jog from the station to the park (but that doesn’t count in the official record!)

I met Stephen at 9.30am (sigh) outside Vauxhall station. Magic FM had promised me a ‘mild’ day reaching 11 degrees Celsius, but it was absolutely freezing once I got outside and I could clearly see my breath on the air (those Magic listeners may be able to decorate with a hangover, but they clearly set low standards for their weather reports).

I had expected rain and was wearing a black cap and waterproof - aka the 'scally' look. Resisted the temptation to fail my GCSEs and steal car radios, even though I looked the part (see left)

Two laps of Richmond Park was the plan. We jogged from the station to Richmond gate, had a stretch and set off around the perimeter track. It was an overcast, cloudy morning – not too cold once you were running and, luckily, rain free for the time being. There was plenty of water on the floor however, and we dodged puddles pretty much the whole way around. It was as muddy as a wrestling match in Las Vegas.

There were plenty of people out running and cycling. I had forgotten how hilly some parts of the park were – one section in particular is very steep. I tried to use my best uphill technique, staying on the balls of my feet and using my arms to propel me upwards. I think it helped a little.

There is one section of the park where the track disappears and you have to follow a muddy path. It’s closer to cross-country than marathon training, but there’s no other way around. It culminates in a steep hill, which was a real killer on the second lap!

We finished the 15 miles after just over two laps of the park. I was very tired, but not completely exhausted. I must take some comfort from that, because about 5 seconds after stopping, my legs became so stiff that I started walking like a robot. Things got worse on the train home and, as I type this, I am pretty much unable to move. This is the most uncomfortable I have ever felt after a long run, but it’s to be expected. We went a long way today.

I will also take comfort from the fact that most of this happened after I stopped. While I was running, I was largely ok. My knees were fine too, but they are quite sore now. I am going to massage my legs again – it seemed to help with my calf muscles this morning. They were much less stiff than the rest of my legs.

Next week it’s the Berkhamstead Half Marathon. I’m looking forward to it. I’d like to set a time of around 1hr 50 – I’d be very pleased with that. I have a tough week of training ahead too, so I need to be strong mentally. Also need to think about working on my sponsorship again – lots of friends to chase up, and I need the money!!

I’ll leave you with a sign that spring is coming and with it, one hopes, warmer, dryer and longer days.

Spring is coming!: Daffodils in Richmond