Easter running..

Easter Sunday saw me once more heading to North Kerry to take part in the Maurice Collins Memorial 4 mile run. Last year it was a real blue sky day, this year it was not! The morning was chilly, the rain was falling in heavy showers and when we arrived in Ballyheigue it was windy too. I was in a moany mood as I had a dull ache in my shin, (shin splints the runners friend, NOT!) as well as two knees which were black and blue from the burpees I had done during Fridays crossfit open 16.5.

View from the car

Not long after Michelle arrived we headed over to register. The run raises money for the Kerry Cork Health Link bus which takes patients dealing with cancer to their appointments and treatments, it is a truly worthy cause. As we signed up runners began to appear, I decided to find the toilet for the nervous pee. We were at this stage still layered up, scarfs, coats etc...

Heading back to the car I left my a few layers there but I brought a jacket but to be honest it didn't last long into the run. I warm up to quickly to carry a jacket around with me as I run. 

As I made my way to the start line I made an attempt to warm up by doing a bit of a jog and I did a few stretches. There was a nice crowd, knowing where I was at preparation wise I kept towards the middle rear end of the group. I was not going to be racing. Bernie was at the start line, after quickly outlining the route she sent us on our way. But, as I began to run my breath was literally taken,  as we all ran head on into the wind. The wind made it tough to settle into a good steady pace. At this stage there was a quick downpour, it wasn't too heavy and it was the only one of the run.

By the second mile I felt comfortable in the run especially as the wind was now at my back and as the route began to climb it didn't feel as hard as it could have. Woohoo!! I have run this route before and the previous times the weather has been glorious which made for the most amazing views. But the view of a stormy seascape added a different dimension to the vista. I had no camera with me so I can't share the view with you.
During the last mile and a half there was a runner ahead of me, we kept hopping past each other. Eventually, he pulled ahead of me but I tried as always to finish strong. Although apparently I forgot to smile..

My saddle bags are on full display must do more squats..

As I crossed the finish line to receive my bling, I had a quick peek at the Garmin and I was happy with the run I had done.

It wasn't the quickest 4 mile I have run but considering everything I can't complain. Having reviewed my mile splits on the Garmin I ran more consistently this year, which you know is my ultimate aim - to be a consistent runner. Slowly but surely it is happening..

This run has a truly stunning views, I can't wait to come and run here during the Summer when the sun shines. I will take a some pictures to show you all. 

I didn't reach my monthly mileage goal for March, at this stage of the year it's not too bad but I'll have to put together a good training plan over the next week or so which will take me through the Summer. I have a few runs coming up over the next few months and I want to put in a good effort. 

As the evenings are getting longer and brighter I'm looking forward to exploring the national park once more..

Our next outing is the Banna beast challenge it should be great fun, it is an obstacle race on the beach.Some of the group are signed up I haven't signed up yet!  But it would be a good challenge and also a good laugh. I am hoping for good weather for the participants and spectators.