Brathay Challenge - Alyson Knowles

Day 10 - The final run

2009-05-18T07:10:00.000-07:00

What a fantastic day! I worked really hard during the run and finished in 4:26. Suddenly my injuries did not seem to bother me and I enjoyed every minute of being out there. Maybe knowing it was the last time I would have to run the tough hilly route had something to do with it? Mac cycled by my side for some of the race, although we did not say much to each other. He left me with 2 miles to go so that he could be at the finish when I came in. The support along the route was great. It felt really special when the front runners started passing me with words of encouragement and congratulations. It meant a lot to hear the words said with obvious respect and admiration for my achievement.
I picked up my welsh flag and held it aloft running towards the finish. Crossing that line was fantastic and really emotional. All I kept saying through the tears was that I had done it! I had so many family members and friends sharing in my success and my tears - it was wonderful. I am so proud of what I have achieved. I am the first Welsh Woman and the second fastest of only 6 woman in the world to have completed the 10 marathons in 10 days challenge. Even though things will quickly get back to normal - work for me tomorrow, life will never be quite the same again.

Day 10 early Sunday morning 17th May

2009-05-18T06:34:00.000-07:00

5:30am

Woke feeling a whole lot better. The cold is still hanging around and all the problems - toes, inflammed tendons, tight hamstrings etc suddenly don't matter so much. I can't believe today has finally arrived. It seems like only yesterday that I was watching last years 10 in 10 runners cross the finish line. I had a dream then to take up the challenge and be a part of the elite group of special athletes who had completed the challenge. Today I will see that dream come true. It hasn't been easy but then anything worth having is worth as much hard work as it takes. I had a plan and worked hard on seeing it through. There were inevitably ups and downs along the way - from the elation of smashing my marathon Personal Best Time by 15 minutes and actually competing in races to that terrible weekend in February when I did my back to back marathons - alone, cold, wet and finally ending up sobbing my heart out in my ice cold bath because it had been so hard. Without the support of people around me it would have been so much harder. I have had to make compromises and haven't always been there to watch my son's football/rugby games or cook their tea. However, I know they are immensly proud of what I have achieved and are looking forward to sharing the celebrations with me today. Brathay colleagues have been great. There has always been someone interested in how my training was going and to offer advice and support when I needed it. I especially valie the support of my running buddy Jill Pinkerton. I feel privileged to have had Steve Edwards as my coach and mentor who has been there for me offering words of advice and encouragement, sharing my successes and helping to pick me up when times were not so good. The fact that he always believed I could achieve this dream helped my to believe in myself.
Shelagh has been my 'rock' throughout. She has shared this dream with me. Providing whatever support I have needed - jelly beans en-route, showing interest in my success, working hard on my fundraising, giving hugs and a shoulder to cry on when things didn't always work out.
I cannot put into words how supportive and encouraging Mac has been. He has always believed I could see this challenge through and has been there for me every minute of every day. Our love has grown stronger as we have shared what has been a fantastic experience together

Day 9 Saturday 16th May

2009-05-18T04:23:00.000-07:00

Woke up this morning feeling awful - the thought of 2 more to do filled me with dread. How on earth was I going to do that? I am so tired. I had a very emotional morning, lots and lots of tears. Weather not so good. Set off with littel energy - it had all been spent doing the emotional stuff. Decided to walk the hills and take things a little easier. Saw Paul Bate, Susie and Lucy at 7 - more tears at that point.Different story at 10 miles - I saw Andy H and Trish. She looked absolutely fantastic, having lost weight at the same class as me. It really gave me a boost and kept me going for a good few miles. Chris Batten and Ali were also out on the course. He ran with me for a little while - this time in sandals. He has been around most of the week supporting at some stage. Sandals today were a better option than the business suit yesterday.Paul, Selina and George (last years 10 in 10 runners) were out on the course supporting too.Mac came back from Morgan's rugby early and joined me for the last part of the run. Felt great once I had finished - phew! Now only 1 to go. Loads of people around the site - registering for tomorows race. Mam,Dad, Gareth and Morgan arrived to stay for the next two nights. Had a glass of wine in the bar tonight which was very nice. Hope I sleep tonight. Have real sore throat and bunged up with head cold now!

Day 8 Friday 15th May

2009-05-18T04:09:00.000-07:00

Weather was awful. Woke in the night and started thinking about having to run another 3 marathons! How was I going to do that. The only way was to take each day as it came exactly as I had for all the previous 7!

Wasn't very pleasant running in the rain but ran nice ands easy the whole way around. Not troubled too much by bad chest. Mam had some cough medicine for me at mile 10! I don't know of any other race that provides that sort of support? Paul from Hoad Hill joined me for a few miles, Philippa and Jill too. Mam, Dad and Mac were around providing encouragement and support. Finished in 4:54. Time has ceased to be important. Just completing each marathon and feeling OK to carry on the next day is all that seems to matter. Had another lovely welcome from Brathay Staff and a hot meal - yum, yum. Sat in the river on my own then had a lovely warm shower and started recuperating ready for Day 9. Lorna lanced my other big toe tonight - 2 little purple beauties they are! Inflammed tendons and tired muscles so lots of stretching and icing. Can't believe 210 miles done and just 52 to go. woohoo! Lots of activity now around the site getting ready for the open day and main race on Sunday. It's so exciting. Need to contain my excitement there's still 2 trips around the lake to consider.

Day 7 Thursday 14th May

2009-05-15T08:12:00.000-07:00

7am OMG - how the hell am I going to be able to run today?
It hurts laying down let alone running 26 miles... Both my big toe nails are no better, the right one throbs and throbs - its healing itself Mac says???
My left ankle is swollen and sore due to the tendon which runs up the top of my foot and up my shin being inflamed.
It hurts to bend my foot in any direction - it will be interesting out there today!

Tried to focus and get myself energised before the start but it was really hard. I was absolutely shattered, my legs were sore and everything hurt. Still set off and ran as well as I could. Got to Newby Bridge in just over 2 hours. Saw Mam and Dad again, Sharon Dixon joined me at mile 8 and ran to just past Newby Bridge. Clare came to see me at Lakeside with my favourite tipple (for Sunday obviously) and a few treats.
Jill joined me for a few miles, also saw Chris Batten and Ali. Started walking some hills now as its really tough.
Paul Adams met me with an ice cream at Water head - Yum Yum!
The support is fantastic and I really appreciate it.

Yet another new pain at 22 miles, my hamstring Argh!! Anything else now? Meant I walked, ran, walked the rest of the way. Was absolutely exhausted coming over the line and I'm afraid I couldn't hold back the tears. Still a nice 10min dip in the river soon invigorated me!
Had good physio and ate well at dinner. Lorna lanced the blister under my big toenail - OUCH! Going to lose a few more nails before the end of it.
Looking forward to a good nights sleep. This was the hardest day physically so far. 184 miles done in 7 days, 78 miles to go!!
How the hell I'm going to keep these legs going for another 3 days I'm not sure - all I know is I'll try my best.
Can't wait to share the stage with Steve and the others on Sunday.

Day 6 Wednesday 13th May

2009-05-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

Can you believe its Day 6!?! Had a great nights sleep and woke up feeling really energised. Had a bit of a tickly cough but felt OK. Weather was good again so able to run in shorts and vest. Felt great out there today, ran all the way around and finished in 4.34. Saw Penny at Hawkshead and Mike (both from Hoad Hill) at 11 miles. Saw Mum and Dad a few times too which was great.
Had some treatment on my big toe (it was banging on the top of my shoe), it is purple this evening and throbbing like mad. My achilles didn't give me and trouble until mile 20 when Mike put an ice pack inside my tubigrip on my leg. It did ease it and meant that I could continue to run all the way back. Had a fantastic reception again from Brathay staff, both at the bottom of the drive and on the lawn. As always Shelagh was there with a big hug for me.

Had usual dip in the river and then some fantastic physio from Mike. I feel really knackered this evening, could only manage to eat a bit of my dinner. Forced some cereal and banana down later. We were going to watch The Apprentice but had to knock it on the head as I needed to go to bed. Hope I have more energy tomorrow morning!!

Day 5 Tuesday 12th May

2009-05-13T03:17:00.001-07:00

Had a terrible nights sleep, was awake for hours and then woke up feeling washed out and knackered - no energy.
Weather was glorious. Had some strapping put onto right calf - achilles problem, also put padding under my laces. I felt it was going to be tough today, I set off and was struggling from the start. At the first drinks spot (2.2 miles) I felt exhausted. Had something to eat and drink and set off again. My calf was hurting and I had some treatment with Amy and Mike at 4 miles. Michelle came past me at this stage. I tried to get back out there but it was hurting too much and I struggled to keep running. Walked uphill at 6 and 7 miles.

By the 8 mile drinks station I had had it and made the decision to walk. I was looking at "the big picture" and wanted to do everything I could to get me through. This decision was huge as up until this I had run every mile. I was very upset and sobbed on Amy's shoulder, I felt as though I had let myself and everyone else down. I knew I had to pull myself together, dig deep and carry on. Within 1/2 mile I had sorted my head out and was feeling positive and relaxed about walking the rest of the way. Mac and I had a lovely day - glorious weather, beautiful scenery and each others company. I had turned what was a negative into a positive. Amy and Katie kept in touch the whole way round but didn't need any more treatment.

Mam, Dad and Gareth saw me a few times - I even had my Mum jogging alongside me at one point. Shelagh came out with a cheese sandwich, it was bliss! Thanks Wayne!
Paula joined me to walk back from Miller Howe, we chatted all the way and at Low Wood I decided I wanted to try to run back - test my calf out. The "Brathay Pulse" was beating and dragging me in! My calf didn't get any worse, it felt good to be running again. I finished in 6.45 - phew, a long day but once again I have learned so much about my inner strength and the difference a positive attitude can make.

Great to see Brathay staff greeting me - only just caught them before they finished work. I'll try harder tomorrow and get in earlier - missed my lunch. Only had time for a quick 10 mins in the river, shower, physio and tea.
Tommorow's another day - let's see what that holds??

Day 4 Monday 11th May

2009-05-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

Had a good night sleep, woke at 5.30 to go to the toilet and have another painkiller. Amazed that I can still walk downstairs frontwards. Gorgeous day - lifted everyones spirits. Saw Shelagh in the morning to talk about whats needed to make the day go smoothly. Set off again at 10:00, as it is day 4 and my number is 4 I was allowed to go first but all the front runners soon overtook me. Had a good run, felt strong. I wore a neoprene belt over my hips which seemed to work. The bottom of my right calf was hurting from around 22 miles but once sprayed with magic stuff I went on to finish in 4.21. I was pleased as that was only 2 mins slower than Day 2.
Saw Penny at Hawkshead and had a good natter, also saw Jill and Johnny near Bowness. Mam and Dad also supported a couple of times on the route and were there at the finish.

Had a lovely 10 mins sitting in the Brathay River with Mark Blackwood - fellow 10 in 10er. It seems that most people suffered injuries today - Mark S and Tom especially. Leon came in first today with Steve second and Adam H closely following. Lorna once again did brilliantly, she is doing amazing. Had some good physio with Mike, ultrasound on hip and work on bottom of calf. Feel tired and looking forward to a good night sleep.
Its funny we all seem to discuss the bigger pains /injuries and forget to mention the blisters, toenails going black, chafing that happens in interesting places!

Great send off and reception from Brathay staff. Their support means so much I can't put it into words but I'm going to try.... at the start I draw more energy (than I have already) from all the smiling faces and words of encouragement around. This helps over the first 3 tough miles where we are all trying to get our bodies warmed up and working. From the top of Miller Howe I know I have roughly only 4 1/2 miles to go. The closer I am getting the more I can feel the energy and "Brathay's pulse". At the Low Wood I can actually hear it beating in my ears and see it across the lake, those last 2 miles are the fastest in the race and the most enjoyable. Each day so far that feeling of energy is getting stronger and stronger.

The start of the Challenge

2009-05-11T02:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't done this every day - I couldn't get into the office as I couldn't remember the code - the one I use every day to get into work, my mind is frazzled - its just like when you've had a baby and the hormones and lack of sleep kick in.

Friday 8 May
STARTED AT LAST!
At last the challenge has started! Had a brilliant send-off yesterday, I've never seen so many folk gather in Client Services and the champagne and nibbles were especially good. It was a lovely surprise to see Steve and Teresa turn up just as the corks were popping. Scott said some lovely things both about the Brathay staff and also about my training so far. Drove around the lake in the afternoon with Steve, Teresa and Gareth. Others arrived as the afternoon wore on and we all ate together at 6pm, the rest of the evening was spent getting our drinks ready for Fridays run. David Gill has given me a "big brother" camera to do a diary over the 10 days. Didn't sleep very well - strange bed. I felt OK though, not nervous or anxious as you would expect but very calm and focussed.
Fridays weather was atrocious and after breakfast and some physio we arrived on the front lawn to be greeted by dozens of people all wishing us well. Mark & Tara from KD Sports in Ambleside were really thoughtful and brought a great hat for me to wear, so grateful for it later in the race!
It was especially good to see my Mam & Dad, Gareth & Morgan and so many good wishes and smiles on people's faces - Brathay at its best.

The run went according to plan, just dipped below 4 hrs, 3.59 which was great. Enjoyed it. Saw Chris Batten on the route, Shelagh was out on the course too. Jill P ran some miles with me, got great support from the Finance team at Waterhead and Brathay staff at the bottom of the drive and the reception committee at the finish line. Lots of hugs and kisses - good stuff this running. Heard I am going to be on Radio Cumbria on Monday at 7.15am.

DAY 2 Saturday 9th May
Better nights sleep last night. Mac went to watch Morgan playing rugby, Anna Tetley came along and took his place supporting runners in the "middle of the field", weather is still not great with strong winds down to Newby Bridge and a horrendous shower with about 2 miles to go. Before I started I was given a bunch of beautiful sunflowers from Emma Warhurst, a lady who comes to our Tuesday night Salsa class. It was really special and a great boost. Some good support out there today. Clare Dyson in Hawkshead with a boisterous dog, Jim & kids in the car, Yvonne ( from Salsa class) at Newby Bridge - would have loved to stop for a beer but couldn't as had a job to do! Paul and Susie cycled past on their tandem, Godfrey and Annie drove past in the car and Shelagh was on her bike for a while. My hip started hurting today around mile 3 - the inflamed bursa! It didn't get any worse but I slowed down & didn't push things. At around 20 miles it started hurting worse, I realised my Ibuprofen had worn off so took another and then it went back to how it was.
Had a brilliant experience at mile 22 - the dreaded Miller Howe hill (short but steep). As I got to the bottom the music from Rocky started playing (the one where he is running up the steps) As I was getting to the top of the hill (just to the point where he has run all the way to the top in the film) Anna, Paul and Susie were cheering and shouting - it was PERFECT and a fantastic boost. I felt really strong for the last 5 miles.
Had some ultrasound on my hip (seems better) and I've iced it.

Feeling quite tired this evening so having an early night before 'going into the unknown'. I've never run more than 2 marathons back to back before. Not worried its going to hurt but thats what is expected to happen. Mike and Amy, the Active Physio team are doing a fantastic job, we couldn't do it without them.

DAY 3 Sunday 10th May
Oh yes it is day 3!! Didn't have a bad night, was in bed for about 8pm reading and chilling out. It sounded like most of the others were up having a great laugh as we could hear them. The party animal in me just wanted to stay in bed - thats a turnaround. I went to sleep at about 9.15 and slept well til 4.15 when I had to take a paracetamol. My legs were sore and my hip was hurting, looking forward to physio after breakfast and then to get another run under my belt. Hope the hip holds up!
Lorna (who is a GP) has kindly given me some slow releasing inflamatories whicl will mean I only have to take them once a day, this will help my brain fuddle!
My stomach is shutting down, doesn't want to take anything in - just let it out! (sorry thats too much info I know!).

The support out there was fantastic today, Shelagh and Tony, Paul from Hoad Hill Harriers who did a great job keeping me amused, Andy H on his bike, Mam, Dad & Morgan with the jelly babies, Phil Whiting and his new wife-to-be Rosie, Andy & Lesley, Jane Glaister & Holly, Godfrey, Annie & the boys, Scott & Jane, Sharon, Chris & Ali, Johnny, Helen & Kate. Just seeing people for a snapshot is giving me such a boost and that helps over the next couple of miles.

My hip was hurting from the start, at 6 miles Mike put some spray on it which helped. The pain was quite bad about 15 miles so Amy strapped an ice pack on it and I ran for the rest of the race with it against my skin, my fault the result is an ice burn but hey, I finished the race. Saw Gareth around the Lakes School, so lovely to have my family and friends sharing in the day - it gives me a warm fluffy glow - just like the Grinch!
My Mother's homemade bread pudding (great post race food) went down a storm - more please Mam!!!
It will be a good day tomorrow as all the Brathay staff will be back at work.

The last few days

2009-05-06T03:55:00.000-07:00

A quiet week on the running front. Chose to run my favourite routes this week. Drunken Duck circuit (didnt see any lying on the road though!) and the lovely blue bells woods on Birkrigg Common. I even managed to get Morgan out to run with me through the woods on Monday which was really lovely - he's a smashing young man and I really enjoyed his company. It seemed really strange only running for 4/5 miles at a time - 32 miles in total through the week. I concentrated on eating well, sleeping well and only had a couple of glasses of wine - medicinal purposes of course. I had a bit of a niggle on my hip on Friday which I think I blew out of all proportion - the fact that there was only 1 week to go helped to magnify what was going on. All sorted now - never to rear its ugly head again, I hope. Steve and Mark Coulson sorted me out with advice about icing etc. Had most of the weekend to myself as Mac went to Scotland sea paddling and Gaz and Morgan had a 'boys fishing trip'. Before Gareth went off he played in a rugby final for Ulverston (which they won) and won the 'man of the match award'. It has been a long time since he was in position to win a trophy - he has worked really hard on his fitness and it was well deserved. I was dead proud of him!
Working like mad now to get up to date in work - I finish Thursday lunchtime when I will meet Steve and Teresa and settle into Shackleton Lodge - mine and Mac's home for the next 11 days. My Mum and Dad are in charge at home and Shelagh has provided a 'large tuck box' of goodies for Mac and I to have our midnight feasts - I guess I will need to do something to take the pain in my legs away?! So I'm ready - how exciting!
I am ready to start now. All those months of training, running lonely miles in the rain, missing my sons rugby/football games have led to today. So has all those months of running in a fantastic part of the world, feeling the rain/sun on my face and wind in my hair, smashing my Personal Best times in races, feeling as fit as a butchers dog - these have all contributed to how I feel now - calm, collected fit and well - Fire in my Belly, Ice in my Head!

Nearly There!

2009-04-28T06:35:00.001-07:00

More of the same. A couple of days rest at the beginning of the week due to ache in hip, but OK by Wednesday - no probems now. Had great physio session with Jugger (Mark Coulson) he has been a star over the last 12 months and is also going to be part of the physio team during the 10 in 10 - yippee. Also went for some treatment on my feet - all part of getting myself ready. Over the weekend the table turned a little and after so many months of my running taking precedent, I fitted my runs around the family. Saturday Morgan and I went to support Mac who was running in the 3 Peaks Fell Race in the Yorkshire Dales. It is a great spectator event and Morgan was happy to supply the jelly babies. Mac did really well and finished in 4:30. In the last 20 days he had run the Paris Marathon, Lochaber Marathon and now another 23 miles and over 5700 ft of climbing. I was dead proud to be there providing support and to see him cross the line. Sunday we went to watch Morgan play in the Under 12's Cumbria Cup Final. Unfortunately they lost 30 points to 4 against a much bigger and stronger side. Morgan played brilliantly, scored Barrow Island's try and tackled everything in sight! Shame he couldn't have held the 'cup' aloft but there will always be another day!
Will keep the mileage low this week probably around 35 miles, concentrate on keeping fit and healthy, eat well, lots of sleep and no stress! Almost there now - woohoo!

Only 4 weeks to go

2009-04-22T03:30:00.000-07:00

Continued putting the miles during the week which included a lovely run through some blue bell woods on Easter Monday and lunchtime runs wherever possible. Tuesday lunchtime I had a 'live' radio interview on Radio Cumbria with Fern. Dead nervous beforehand, but I think it went OK! Mac and I travelled up to Fort William on Thursday evening. Morgan had decided to stay with Gareth to have a 'boys weekend' and to make sure he was available to play in the Cumbria Cup semi final on Sunday - 'can't let the team down see Mum!' I'm not even going to attempt to think about what they will get up to. Still a weekend away with my lovely husband was just what I needed. We ran part of the Lochaber Marathon route on Friday which was out and back along the side of Loch Eil. I imagined it being difficult on Sunday (even though the scenery was fantastic - a commanding view of Ben Nevis on the way back) due to the long, flat road that seemed to stretch forever. Not a hill to run on in sight!
We had a lovely night out on Friday with Shelagh and Tony who had come up to support. Steve and Teresa also arrived Saturday night. We also met up with Selina and George (both ran the 10 in 10 last year).
The day of the race was very warm with a bit of a breeze on the last few miles. Mac and I ran around together which was really good. It proves how far I have come to be able to run at the same pace as him. It wasnt one of my easier runs as my legs were feeling the effects of weeks and months of training - the end of a long, long stretch. I did however manage a Personal Best of 3:44 and was 5 female in my class which was OK. I developed a bit of a niggle in my left hip - a consequence of running on a flat course for 26 miles! I self diagnosed this as an inflammed greater tochanteric bursa! I have treated this with rest, ice and Vitamin I (Iboprofen). It is better today and I am looking forward to running lunchtime in the sunshine.
This week I have started to taper which feels good - time to recharge the battery ready for the 'big one' in 15 days. I will concentrate now on staying fit and healthy and get to the starting line on the 8th May full of energy and enthusiasm. Oh and Morgan won his rugby - yippee and is in the final this Sunday - let's hope he gets to lift the cup!

Aftermath of Paris

2009-04-16T01:55:00.000-07:00

This week I remained on a bit of a high after last week (the fact there was only 3 days in work also helped my euphoria). Kept my mileage up even though my legs are really tired now and crying out for a rest. Had a really 'chilled out' weekend as Mac and Morgan went to Scotland to climb some Monroes. Spent the time Running, reading, sleeping - oh and of course running! It was great to run in the fine, sunny weather too. Did 18 miles on Sunday around Coniston Water in the heat of the day - all good preparation for our heatwave in May! Went out on Friday night with a few of the girls to boost my fundraising by 'pub crawling' around Ulverston with collection boxes. They did an awesome job and we raised £215!! Many thanks to them all. I must say though it was not good for my training! Saturday was a bit of a wash out as I nursed my hangover. Still a bit of what you fancy is OK and its far enough away not to harm preparations. Back on the case this week and looking forward to Lochaber Marathon this Sunday. It will be great fun as Steve and Teresa will be there. Shelagh and Tony are also coming up to support and provide the necessary jelly beans!

Spring in Paris

2009-04-07T01:47:00.000-07:00

Yet another good week. 65 miles and 9 consecutive days of training culminating with the Paris Marathon On Sunday.
Mac and I travelled out on Thursday and stayed in a lovely hotel in the centre of Paris. We spent the time resting, eating, reading, eating, running and eating - well you have to carbo load before a marathon you know?! It was our wedding anniversary on Friday so we made sure we had a really special day - we ran in the morning, went to pick up our running number and chip in the afternoon and went out for a fantastic french meal in a typical parisian bistro in the evening. We probably did have a little too much french vino - but made sure we drank loads of water too!
I was still nursing the head cold that I had developed the day before. I quickly emailed Steve for advice about whether I should run or not on Sunday. The outlook did not look good and I really had to dig deep to stay positive. I had been looking forward to Paris since last September. It was always going to be the highlight of my training and I hoped the place I did a PB.
I kept taking my resting pulse and that seemed normal so we just decided to wait and see how I felt on Sunday Morning.
Still did not feel too good in the morning but decided to go along to the start anyway. I had got all prepared the day before - clothes laid out, drinks prepared etc. By the time I arrived at the start I felt OK and raring to go. What I decided was that I would take it easy and not push my body too much, probably forget about a PB and just see how the race panned out.
It was chaos trying to get to the baggage area as 30 thousand people squeezed through a hole in the fence - some going one way and some the other (bit of an exaggeration but it was quite mental).
We did some jiggery-pokerry and I managed to sneak into the same pen as Mac - 3:30 expected finish time. This was ambitious for me but we thought we would try to set out running together. This we did but after a short while realised that Mac was stronger and he shot off in front. I was still holding back due to the head cold.
Drinks stations were bonkers - runners darting all over the place, stopping dead in their tracks to drink and you also had to avoid banana skins and orange peel. Also at too many points during the race you had to slow down (at one point actually walk) as you went around tight bends. So even though it was a flat course I don't believe it was one where a PB was on the cards.
At 16 mile I saw Mac in front of me - I had caught him up. We ran together for a couple of miles but then I pulled away. Woohoo! The miles I have in the bag were paying off.
I ended up running a negative split (the second half of the race faster than the first) and finished in 3hrs 47s. Mac came in at 3:55. The first time ever that I have finished before him. He says he now has a strategy for the Lochaber Marathon (19th April) and will get me back. Bring it on I say! Next rest day now Saturday 18th April. Only 30 days to go1

My Fundraising Attempt

2009-03-31T07:08:00.000-07:00

Yippee! These have been a bumper few days on the fundraising front. My total now stands at £2431 against a target of £2750. This is absolutley fantastic and many, many thanks to everyone who has sponsored me so far. Ali Alger and I are meeting with the Head at Ulverston Victoria High School tomorrow to talk about possible projects within the school where we can spread some Brathay magic! If you haven't got around to sponsoring me yet and have any pennies to spare you can do it either by contacting me at alyson.knowles@brathay.org.uk to pledge an amount or even easier by following the link to my Just Giving page www.justgiving.com/alysonknowles

Who would have thought Aly from the Valley in print!

2009-03-31T05:01:00.000-07:00

Received my advance copy of Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Magazine today with an article on 'yours truly'. I am really pleased with it. It has not always been easy but I believe if it's worth doing then it's worth sticking at it! Just goes to prove what you can achieve if you want it enough and have the determination and willpower to succeed. It's so easy to make excuses about why you cannot do something whether that is losing weight, running a 5k, passing your exams or even running 10 in 10! Setting short term goals and celebrating when they are achieved have helped keep me going. Motivational lesson over - now back to the job in hand -getting those miles in. Only 37 days to go now until May 8th.

Another Great Week!

2009-03-30T03:10:00.000-07:00

Another 70 miles completed over the week. I concentrated on running longer each day in one go, doing 12 miles at a time instead of being split into 2 separate runs. I must say this was a lot harder than going out twice a day. I was really quite tired by the middle of the week and couldn't wait for my rest day on Friday. By then I had completed another 10 days of running - 120 miles in total.
Having the rest day Friday worked out well as it was the day before the Coniston 14. I couldn't decided how to run the race - whether to just jog around and admire the scenery or to go for it and do a PB. I was receiving lots of advice about 'keeping my eye on the big picture' etc. The fact that the weather forecast was for it to be strong northerly winds, cold with showers did not help either.
In the end the weather was OK- bright, no showers but still a strong cold headwind for the last 8 miles. I loved it and had a fantastic day! It really is a brilliant event - well organised and really friendly.
It was good turning up for the race with Mac. We also met Jill there as we went through our pre-race preparations. Jill laughed at the amount of vaseline Mac was attempting to put on his feet - no blister was going to get him!
I worked hard on my mental preparations - I was not going to be intimidated by all the other 'athletes'. This is something that has always happened to me in the past at the start of races. I have always looked around and thought everyone else looked so athletic and fit and would put myself at the back of the group. Saturday was the first time ever that I had walked around and stood on that start line with my head held high. I felt proud to be wearing my Hoad Hill Club Vest and to be running in a race with fellow team mates. I felt great.
I ended up running on my own and had a brilliant run and finished in 1:53 - another Personal Best for 14 miles. I went through half marathon stage at 1:46!! I only really worked hard for the last mile and a half. This meant I had smashed through another PB and also had not completely knackered myself in the process - bring on Paris!! Mac did really well and finished in 1:43 - I'll get him yet!
The Hoad Hill Ladies Team won second place - we had a £15 quid voucher each to spend at Pete Bland's! I was second counter and felt especially proud to be standing on the stage with Sharon Dixon (who was 8th lady overall). I have admired Sharon's athletic ability for many, many years and never thought in a million years that I would be standing alongside her receiving a prize!!
Finished off the week yesterday running with Mac on a lovely off road run over Birkrigg - I do enjoy running with him!
And so to this week. 70 miles planned. Another 10 day stint - next rest day Tuesday 7th April. Mac and I travel to Paris on Thursday to spend our wedding anniversary running the Paris Marathon. I hope to at least match my Draycote Marathon time of 3:46 so hopefully will remain injury free this week. Only 38 days to go!!

The Big Dipper Week!

2009-03-24T02:50:00.000-07:00

Phew! What a week that was? Highs and Lows all in the space of 7 days.

Physically my preparation continued along a gradual incline. Another 70 miles in the bank which included some great lunchtime runs in the lovely spring weather. It is so different running without gloves, hats and waterproofs. The sun on your back also gives you a fantastic feeling.

Mentally I had a real wobbly couple of days in the middle of the week. It didn't help my emotional state knowing that Friday would have been my late grandmother's birthday. She was such an inspirational lady who I miss very much. Anyway, I got to thinking about how enormous a challenge I have committed to and how close it is - only 7 weeks to go! I was feeling scared and I'm not ashamed to admit it. For months and months I have been saying that I didn't know if it was possible or whether I would be able to manage the training. It was always a long way off. But now all of a sudden it is so close - I can almost touch it and feel it! and yes it is even more possible. Gulp!

However, after sharing my thoughts, concerns and tears with Mac, Shelagh, Steve, Johnny and my boys - the best support crew you could ask for, I soon got myself back together. Thanks guys it would be so much harder without you! I started thinking about the closeness of the challenge and saw things in a different light - now the words being used were not scary, intimidating, impossible but EXCITING, CHALLENGING, A DREAM COME TRUE! I can't wait!

I ended my training week running on my own around the Windermere course on Friday (26 miles) in 4hr 9mins. Shelagh and Jill Dawes thankfully providing the necessary jelly beans, water and encouragement at 16 miles. Mac also joined me to cycle back the last 3 miles. both Shelagh and Mac decided not to join me in the Brathay for the customary 10 minute cold soak though - obviously dedication and support only goes so far!!

Saturday I ran the Sticky Toffee Pudding 16k (in fact it was more than that 11.2 miles in fact) in Cartmel. It ws a lovely day although the course was tough - hilly and very very muddy in places. Still it was great fun!

Mothers Day on Sunday saw me making another tough decision - should I stay put, rest my tired legs and have breakfast in bed OR get up and run before Morgan's rugby? What did I chose? Yes you got it right - I got up and ran for 6 miles. There's always next year!

So highs and lows but another good week - onwards and upwards.

Summary so far

2009-03-18T01:13:00.000-07:00

June to December 2008

On deciding I was going to take on the 10 in 10 Challenge I started my preparations, this included speaking to Mac and the boys to ensure I had their full support, I also spoke to Shelagh who was very encouraging. With this core team in place providing full support I believed it was more than possible.
I set myself some short terms goals against which I would be able to check if I was on track or not.

Surviving hayfever season - in the past I had always struggled to train while taking my medication which made me feel drowsy
Continuing to train through my holidays in France - you would think with all the extra time it would be easy but no, the temptation for lounging in the hot sun and drinking copious amounts of french wine always proved difficult! Not the drinking of wine but the running!
Continuing to run after the Langdale Marathon in September-in the past once a marathon had been completed I took a well earned rest.
Running the Snowdon Marathon only 5 weeks after Langdale
Building my mileage up from 20 miles to 50 miles per week by the end of the year
Run a back to back marathon by end of December

I achieved each and every one of these short term goals which not only meant that I was getting physically prepared but the sense of achievement was doing wonders for my mental prep too. I was especially please to run a 10K PB of 47.48, a Snowdon time of 4.08 (5 weeks after Langdale) and a back to back - never before even thought of!!

January 2009

Maintained 45 - 50 miles per week.
Running to Newby Bridge and back (25 miles) during the 10 in 10 training weekend in 3.50!
Almost PB-ing on my training runs

Mac and I also spent 8 days running in Majorca. This was an amazing break, we ran at least 2 - 3 hours every day up and down the Majorcan hills and along the coast. I came back having stepped up another level in my fitness.

February 2009

February saw me attempt another back to back 2 x 26 miles which this time was not as pleasant an experience. It was cold, wet, I was under-dressed and ran the 2 days on my own. The only good thing was being supplied with a warmer jacket by Martin (who drove up and down the lake on Friday) and jelly beans from Shelagh. Saturday was especially tough mentally and I have to admit I spent the 10 minutes in my ice cold bath after the runs, crying and feeling sorry for myself - still I did it!! I can hopefully draw on that mental strength come May.

I travelled down to run the Draycote Marathon just outside Birmingham. I had some great hospitality from fellow 10 in 10 runners Leon and Lorna on Saturday evening. We travelled to the race together and met Steve Edwards. For some reason I nearly lost it before the race, doubting myself - I had a real confidence dip. I looked around at all those athletes and wondered why on earth I was there! After some stern talking from Steve I lined up - still with a full bladder as I couldn't find the toilets and set off to run 5 laps of the same course around Draycote Water. I felt absolutely brilliant and maintained 8.40min miles the whole way round. I finished the race in 3.46 taking an amazing 15 mins off my marathon PB!! What a confidence booster. I know I had every right to be on that start line and going forward will remember that should it rear its head again!

Up to and including Sunday 15 March

I am now running 70 miles a week and have been advised by Steve to keep this up until the taper at the end of April.

I have also run for 11 consecutive days, which includes yet another double - a 26 mile training run on Friday and then another 26 miles on Saturday. Over the 11 days I clocked up 115 miles and am taking a well-earned rest day today ( Monday 16). This double was a far more pleasant experience, Jill P ran the first bit with me on Friday, Anna Tetley cycled to Coniston with me and Helen M joined me for the last 13 on Saturday. It was great having the company. Mac and Jill are also running with me whenever they can which really helps with the boredom.

I now intend to run 10 days on, 1 day off, 10 days on maintaining 70 miles per week until the end of April.

This week I plan to run around the Windermere Marathon route on Friday before doing the 16K Sticky Toffee Pudding run in Cartmel on Saturday. All that and a Sticky Toffee Pudding too!

Welcome

2009-01-26T06:15:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my blog, a summary of my training so far will follow.