Our very own Office Manager, Debbie gives us an insight into what it’s like training and taking part in the Cleethorpes Half Marathon on the 18th September 2022.
So, I hadn’t run an actual race for quite a while, pre-covid. I had continued to run through covid, when allowed but my pace had dropped, and I found it sometimes difficult to motivate myself.
Post covid, races are back. Should I sign up or not? My running pal had decided that an actual race was not for her, which meant that if I decided to go for it, then I would be going alone.
I gave it a lot of thought. I started training before signing up to see if I could actually do this thing called real running again.
I decided I could! I signed up for the race, a half marathon – 13.1 miles – really, what are you thinking? I must be mad; it is a really long way!
I continued to train alone until on return from a training session in early June proved painful. My heel / ankle hurt a lot, wasn’t sure at the time what was happening. I googled – maybe Achilles Tendonitis. Recommended resting for several weeks – I don’t have time for that! I decided that I had had enough resting and decided to get back on track with my training plan, so late June was time for a 8 mile run – off I went, pain in my ankle but surely I can run it off. Apparently not – 2.5 miles in and I called for someone to come and pick me up. I was not happy. Resting again and using lots of oriental balm.
It is extremely difficult to rest and watch the time go on, closer and closer to the date of the race.
Tried again early July – not ready.
Tried again early August, updated my Strava app to say “Think the heel is better” – okay to train.
Ok, 6 weeks to go – new training schedule needed.
Day of the race is here, off we all go to Cleethorpes, I am ready.
The route turned out to be not as good as I hoped and therefore slowed me down BUT 13.1 miles done 2 hours and 20 mins done. Not my fastest half marathon but considering everything I am reasonably happy with the outcome. Roll on next time!
