Route flooded..

Rainy days & anniversaries

I have been enjoying my running since Christmas. In fact, all of Killarney seems to be out in the evenings, and as these runners pass me by or in the odd case I pass them by, I gain great encouragement. This time last year I could barely move and now this year I relish my evening runs.                                        Although, the rain is playing havoc with the routes it also means the chances of getting wet while running is very very high.
I have to say when it is raining or threatening rain it's harder to get up and run.  I can talk myself out of not going quite easily. Although, I try not to.
I did an 8 mile run last weekend. At around 3 miles there just an almighty downpour, I just mentally put the head down and kept moving forward. Thank goodness for dri-fit clothes but from miles 6-7 there was another shower. It made the last mile and half miserable. But, rain or no rain I did it. At the start of the run, I had headed down to Ross castle and hadn't realised it was flooded, so I turned back going a different route. This weather is just sooo annoying. I did like running in the rain but weeks of it, is just too much.
I have been going out three evenings a week,  I do just over 3 miles and can feel my legs & my ability to keep going getting better with each run.
I have to say I miss the running group, I think it definitely helps to improve your running. Before Christmas, I could feel myself improving week to week, my pace had improved. We'll be back on the road in February. So I can't wait! In the meantime, I'm gonna run so I won't suck as bad as February last year.
This weekend marks a year since I gave up smoking and started running. Thanks to everyone who was part of a great year - Brenda the no1 trainer, running group, family, friends & the two best cheerleaders ever {looking forward to next July }.

2013 summed up....

I saw this on another site and thought it was a good idea. So, I had a look back at the year 2013 and put these facts together...

MY MILEAGE

Total mileage run for 2013 - 565
miles

Highest mileage month - June

Lowest mileage month - February

SPEED/PACE

Slow or very slow

MY RUNS

Total number of runs - 121
(not including run/walk)

MY RACES

Total no. - 5

Half marathon
Run Killarney

10K
Killarney women's mini marathon
Clonakilty Waterfront 10k

5K
Kerry GAA ladies

Adventure race
Hell mountain

PERSONAL RECORDS

Half marathon - 2:58:12

10K - 1:16:21

Not too bad for a turtle...

Itchy feet

The constant barrage of wind and rain over the last few days has left me lounging indoors.  I need to go out for a good run, my training is a few weeks behind. All the running routes are flooded. This
I did go for a run during Christmas and over the new year. Both weren't as long as they should or could be but the spirit is Willing!  The run during Christmas was particularly nice as I had always wanted to run In London and now I have. London was full of people running, they all looked fit and able, in my head that is how I want to look when I run. I fear the reality is vastly different.
As time has a habit of flying by so quickly, it was nearly 8 months since I got my last runners as so I got new ones yeahhhh! I'm sure they will serve me as well as my last pair!
This year my main running goal will be the half marathon in Killarney. Also, as last year was the year of giving up cigarettes 2014 must be the year of losing the lard off my big backside. I'm sure I'll add to this list of goals during 2014.
My one hope is that this year is as life altering & challenging as last year was!

Bring it on..