Almost straight after this I entered the Reading Half Marathon, which my sister was already doing. I got some new shoes - Karrimor as these were the cheapest I could find in Sports Direct - and set about building up the miles. I ran almost every day after work, then did a long run at the weekends.
That year, it poured with rain and didn't stop pouring the whole way round! We squelched round in 1hr 56, holding hands at the finish! I still remember the runner's high at the end, and I still had a bit left in my legs! After this race I also purchased my first pair of Asics, and haven't looked back since!
Run to the Beat came next, my second half marathon. Having not trained as much and with hot weather and a crowded course, I managed 1hr57 which I was pleased with.
I also ran the Gosport half marathon that November. I found this really tough - and it taught me that you shouldn't be complacent! My training was wrong - not enough long runs, my fuelling wasn't great, and I struggled with the no headphone rule. This is the first time I have "hit the wall" during a run. My legs just felt like they could go on, my chest felt right, my breathing was ragged. My legs were so heavy. I remember shouting at my friend that I couldn't carry on, and she was trying to shout encouragement back at me, whilst looking very fresh herself! I ultimately overcame it by focusing on my breathing and completing one step at a time, and struggled over the line in 1hr58. Then nearly passed out!
After this setback, I booked myself onto Reading Half for the following year, and learnt from the experience. I started mixing long runs with gym strengthening classes, interval training and learnt more about pre and mid race nutrition. I finished in 1hr52 and was delighted, web managing a sprint finish at the end!
I improved on this time in the Milton Keynes Half Marathon, where I got myself up the front at the start to try to stick to pace! Although struggling slightly with the muggy weather, I finished in 1hr47 which I was really pleased with.
Booked in so far race wise up to the marathon I have: Les Witton Dartford 10 miler, Royal Parks Half Marathon, Brighton 10k, and Reading Half Marathon 2015. Fingers crossed training goes to plan...!
