This is me, signing off for a few weeks

Photo credits to Bill Bradshaw. Picture taken at Port Elliot Literary Festival...

A point in time

I want to go back to Norway and get a black t-shirt. This will mean taking about 1.5 hours off my combined cycle and swim time (mostly off the cycle) and being strong enough to run the first 25km at least of the run and then quick march to the two cut off points.

I will see how next year goes and use events such as North Cornwall Tor as a guide to progress (target time for 2010 = 8 hours).

Regardless, I do feel proud of finishing this time and feel honoured to have shared the experience with Si and Julie: apologies to both of you if I was a bit 'down' after and did not share my gratitude with you.

Thanks also to those who wished me luck and sent congratulations to me on finishing, particulalry Royzy whose text re white t-shirt cheered me up (and good luck to you for 2008!) and thanks to Dave for looking after work while I was away.

I will wear my white t-shirt with pride and happy memories...

I can run

I had always thought no matter how difficult a cycle I would put on my running shoes and plod round a marathon...

That myth was dispelled on the Norseman.

Even after 18 minutes in transition 'regrouping' (and being asked to bare my buttocks for camera) I left T2 with NOTHING in the tank. The first 2km of the run took 15 minutes and I got slower. There is one picture of me running taken by Julie that shows me stooped and broken. I was so pleased when the 25km point came and I was faced with Zombie Hill which it was 'okay' (even in Norway) to walk up.

It is here I should say I do think I would even have managed to walk up this hill or walk the 10km after that if not for Si and Julie.

I have read subsequently of one competitor who left the final run/ walk to go inside the Hotel and regroup/ change etc before re-emerging to complete the event. I know how they felt and if it had not been for Si and Julie being with me I would have left and not come back out!

When I finished there was no elation from me. I was too tired (and humbled by the course...)

'Your bike for sale?'

You can read much more in depth analysis of the bike ride on other race reports or by looking at some of videos posted on YouTube. Suffice to say:

a) I found it incredibly physically and mentally challenging (I had to keep saying to myself to 'keep going' or 'come on')
b) I was only doing 4 or 5 miles per hour up the hills (just sitting in the saddle and turning the pedals in the lowest gear)

The only time I felt 'good' was when I got to half way in my target time AND was informed by one of Norseman Crew that only small climbs now (*)

The second half almost destroyed me the worst part was on the plateau of Imingfell (after crawling up the last climb) and finding myself in a head wind cycling like a madman and only doing 11 mph.

I was so pleased when I descended off that peak and realised I was going to make the cut off time for continuing the event.

(* = so stupid to have been taken in - I had seen the climbs when we drove the cycle route. They are I believe 3 climbs of c 3 km and one of 7.5 km ie road covered not height gained!)

Part way up one of the climbs in the 2nd half of the cycle segment there was a message painted 'Your bike for sale?' - which did bring a rare and fleeting smile to my face (there were several of these messages on the uphills of both the cycle and run my favourite was probably 'your mum could run faster' which appeared on the walk up Zombie Hill).

A thank you at this stage to my cycling guru's for tips passed on in the past few years; Simon M, Si and James O - I thought of you all as I tackled the hills:

• Use body to reduce speed on descents (Simon M)
• Lean on downhill bends (Simon M)
• Keep spinning on ascents (James O)
• Arse over saddle on more tricky descents - from occasional mountain bike rides (James O)

Sandbagger?

Swim was 'strange' melee at first and then large periods where I was swimming alone. We had been warned that currents would be against us so I had said to Si I maybe 2 hours (based on my pool times).

Got out of water in 1 hour 28 minutes. When I got to my bike Si remarked that I was a lot quicker than I had expected and one of the other crew quipped 'he was sandbagging then?'. Which I took to mean setting my stall out for a worse event than maybe was likely. This maybe something I am guilty of!

A friend in deed

I had maybe not sounded that enthusiastic when Si had said about accompanying me on the ferry (I did not want Si to feel obliged...) but I was very glad when from on-board I could see that Si was part of a group of the 'support crew' who was going to make it on. I immediately felt more relaxed.

We chugged further away from shore one of may 'fears' for the day began to dissipate with the rising sun - I would be able to see (and follow) my fellow swimmers...

Big cheer went up when water temperature was announced at 17 degrees.

Those retching exercises...

I do not warm up in the traditional way by stretching etc I just 'retch' and in T1 I had to leave Si with bike as I threw up flem. Nice...

Another alarm bell rings...

or thank you insomnia.

Race morning featured a ridiculously early registration and bike check at Eidfjord before ferry chugs away to start of swim at 4.40am. Anyway, Si set alarm for 3am and I for 2.45am.

However, I awoke early and checked my watch and saw it was 2am so I lay in bed thinking about day ahead until 2.30am when I got up. I then realised I had not adjusted my alarm clock for Norway being 1 hour ahead.

So I thought lucky I woke up but would have been ok as Si would have awoken me anyway when his alarm went off. I

got changed into wetsuit and watched the time move past 3.10am before I thought 'can't hear anything from Si's room'... turned out he had done exactly what I had re alarm...

(What we had done well was pack the night before so as soon as Si was up we departed for Eidfjord)

The chicken door - an example of Norseman physce

The pre-race briefing featured a drawing of the ferry that would take us to the swim start with people jumping off the back (a good few feet above sea level).

An alternative exit closer the water level was arrowed 'chicken door'...

Dipping a toe (and rest of body) in the water

There are so many things that went better than I could have hoped re the event - one of those was the reassembling the bike in Norway after flight. No problems at all - in stark contrast to when I tried to reassemble in UK afterwards and got the chain so twisted that I had to take it into bike shop to have a new chain...

Bike assembled I cycled down to Eidfjord proper (we were staying part way up the hill that led away from fjord base) to be joined by Si and Julie. Took the opportunity after registration to go for first swim in new wetsuit. Was joined by Si and we had lovely swim in still waters that were not too cold at all. (Si did outswim me after I 'blew up' after trying to blitz him on way back to pontoon)

After we got out a fellow competitor and his support crew joined us on the pontoon. I watched Hugh enter the water and swim off, turned away for a few seconds and looked round again to see he had covered a huge distance. Conversation with his support crew revealed he had exited water 30th in Lanzarote Ironman...

(He would exit swim 3rd here...)

A long drive - and issues with hand brake turns

Safely in Norway we collected our hire car 'the grey Passat': a beast of a vehicle that had sufficient luggage space to take bike bag and all rucksacks etc.

Si drove excellently through out our trip and the the only problems we experienced were:

a) where was the handbrake
b) what to do with toll charges
c) how to use the pumps at petrol station

a) and c) were resolved by asking nice Norwegian people (who fortunately spoke excellent English - the phrase book I bought for £12 at airport, having left one I purchased in England in my car, was ****).

Even after mastering the electric handbrake Si did ponder how to do a handbrake turn without a manual handbrake.

We detoured on route between Oslo and Eidfyord to look at the bike route - it was a long drive for me as the hills were a little bit more hilly (mountainous) than I had envisaged....

The weigh in and need for bubble wrap...

My lack of proper preparation for the event began to show as early as the morning of our travel to Heathrow with my not knowing about baggage allowances for the plane...

A rough and ready weigh in on bathroom scales at home gave only some comfort so it was with some trepidation that we approached check in desk for our flight.

Suffice to say I was a few kg over the 32 allowed for my bike bag and thus what followed was:

a) transfer of stuff to hand luggage

b) us annoying other people in the queue by re-weighing/ extensive deliberations etc

I thought I dealt with situation quite well but maybe the 'panic' did effect me as a few minutes later whilst going through security I managed to drop my boarding pass through the metal rollers on the conveyor belt you put the trays/ bags on. Fortunately, there was no need to stop the whole queue and a man and a long piece of plastic combined to retrieve fallen item!

(Learning point - use bubble wrap in bike bag as Julie advised...)

Panic: buying

In the last 2 weeks before the event I did a lot of two things:

a) panicking

b) buying

The panicking was set off when I read (rather belatedly) information on the Internet about the Norseman, in particular 'Smithy's Norseman Report' If I had read this before last August would I have entered? (For those of you who read this entertaining account of the 2005 event you may be also be interested to know that 'Smithy' has I understand this year qualified to do Kona...) I then scoured the Internet for anything would hopefully let me know that Lanzarote was just as difficult - nothing was forthcoming.

However, I did find useful guide to preparing (kit wise as was as mentally) for the event Norseman Notes

Panic/ last minute buys in the last two weeks included:

• Running shoes, gloves and coat for the mountain (who was I kidding!)
• Wetsuit (see * below)
• Glue for neoprene boots.
• Roof box for car

* = I had my old one suit dropped off at Snugg the week before the event to be patched up but Malcolm rang and advised that I would be better off getting a new suit and that he could have a new one ready for collection on Tuesday if I popped into to be measured up on the Saturday. I was/am extremely grateful to Malcolm and the Snugg team...

I did it: the film version

Royzy does not like novels so this blog is the 'film' version of my Norseman adventure i.e., a highlights only version of race day...

Got up 2.30am - (fortunately as alarm clock incorrectly set)
Woke up Si at 3am (fortunately as his alarm clock incorrectly set)
Retched and retched some more 4am
Started event at 5.15am
Finished at 11.25pm (yes, that is 18 hours and 10 minutes after I started)

Have never felt as drained...

Aim to go back for mountain finish in 2011: must get a black t-shirt!

P.S. You can see a video of the event on http://www.youtube.com/nxtri (I am briefly featured at 1 min 35 seconds in)

Swim Swim Swim

I have done a fair bit of swimming (more swimming than blogging anyway) some of it I will cover in separate blogs but generally I have been in the pool say twice a week, swimming at least a mile.

In the sea today with James H who I think has done some coaching. He noted some improvement from last year (last time we swam together) BUT said:

• Still not reaching far enough/ gliding with the stroke
• Should try and rotate body to get the extra propulsion (easier in wetsuit?)

(He did also say that I should not try and change anything before 8 August...)

He also felt that I should not use gloves for Norseman if I had not practised in them - something to do with stroke action. I think I will buy pair to take with but only wear if water freezing (c 16 degree at the moment per Norseman website)

Compliments to the chef

Was very impressed to see Rick Stein on the start line of Padstow to Rock swim (19/7). Not sure what time he did (I hope in a way he did not beat me!) but admiration regardless.

All three of us (Si, Dean and me) who went to event together had a lovely afternoon: can highly recommend the event which is organised by Macmillan Cancer Support.

We were a bit late for registration after faffing around for ages trying to find a space to park (we have to credit Si for us not being even later and he brought forward our departure time by 15 minutes - citing 'holiday traffic' as a reason why we would not get from Perranporth to Padstow within 1/2 hour).

I just finished before Si (I turned round on slipway to see Si finishing). Both us within 25 minutes for 'just under a mile' - so I was very pleased. Dean was in the top 10 in 18 minutes (I think).

Stayed around after for coffee and we each bought something from Mr Stein's deli...

too tense to glide

My swimming lesson referred to me being 'too tense' when smimming and this was echoed my someone who had given me and a friend a few years ago when I asked him for a tip when I bumped into him last weekend. I have been trying to work on this (as I write I feel that inbility to relax/ need to maximise effort in most things I do is a personality flaw that I could do with losing in other aspects of my life as well as swimming).

Anyway, other tips:

1. Need to reach with stroke (and try and glide - see also 2)
2. Need to maximise propulsion from first and last section of stroke in water
3. Need to keep head from twisting up when taking a breath
4. Need to stop left foot from twisting (when taking a breath)

Felt very tired after my lesson (concentration?). Will see if I can reduce strokes per length (c30) and more importantly reduce time for 2 miles from 1.5hours recorded a few weeks ago next time I visit the pool (Wednesday/ Thursday next week). Must also remember to pay coach for my lesson!

running slowly into self doubt

I have largely ignored running over the past few weeks (if not longer) feeling that time and effort needs to be applied to the other 2 disciplines and to a degree this has paid some dividends with swimming feeling more comfortable (after finally getting around to having a lesson) and I have managed to improve cycling time (with new tyres).

Ran as part of a relay team at work last weekend and my enjoyment of the event was marred only by my own 'disappointing' run time for the second leg: more than 2 hours to cover the 11 miles but was 5th quickest on my leg out of the 4-man relay teams. Should I feel disappointed?http://www.endurancelife.com/assets/results/2009_cus_quarterv09.htm (P.S. I am still not sure I went the right way on one of the headlands - there was a path below the one I was running on and there were people running on it. Equally there was a path above with people on it. But I do feel I may have taken a short cut!).

Anthony was the star of the team clocking the 3 quickest time on his leg (and I am not sure about the quickest time recorded for his leg as it seems almost superhuman!). Commendations to Darren and Jon as well (Jon - sorry you got the toughest leg...).

Ran 5-6 miles on Friday (day off) again slow and got out sprinted by Si (completely blitzed me) on short run to waters edge on Saturday. Need to fit a few runs into the remaining 4 weeks...

Distracted by crabs

Had a good swim yesterday: Lusty Glaze to Towan.

Si had injured his wrist cycling so got out of sea at Tolcarne to rest injury only to step on weaver fish and have foot swell up. I did not realise this at the time and had called Si out to see the crabs scuttling along the sea bed where I was swimming. We both got distracted (Si from pain in his foot and me from my swimming practice).

Saw a good dozen crabs - Si wondered whether there was a crab conference in town.

Armed with Scott's advice on what to do when stung by weaver fish (which was supported by helpful staff at Reef Surf school), Si put his foot in hot water when he got home.

Body shivers

When I get anxious I get cold shivers through my body.

Quite often I do not know what is making me anxious at the time: usually work related with the reason (too much to do or not enough in pipeline).

This morning I knew what was troubling me as I lay awake thinking about the Norseman...

Specifically cut off times.

(consequently, even more pleased with time on way back from Penzance - see previous blog entry)

Penzance to Perranporth in 1 hour 31 minutes - there is hope...

Went down to St Just today.

Trip out was a real struggle - the combination of head wind, road surface (the rough type that seems to suck the energy out of you) and hills around Zennor almost got the best of me. (or maybe it was the mermaid calling...)

Several times I thought of taking a short cut to Penzance but had promised myself a Costa coffee if I got to St Just so I stuck it out. Got to Penzance in c 4hours (c 48 miles).

On the way back I took the A30 and made an effort to keep up a good pace and was pleased to cover the 27 miles in 1 hour 31 minutes (times and distance approximate!).

(Still no match for the Perranporth posse taking part in Austrian Ironman - see a later post).

As if by magic...

On cycle yesterday I was in the 'middle of nowhere' (factually I was about a mile or 2 outside of Mawgan) when I stumbled across a cafe that:

• served my favourite brand of coffee (Origin);
• offered to top up my cycle water bottle without me asking; and,
• had a copy of the paper I read on Saturday (The Guardian) on the table I sat down and drank at.

I will have to go back there for a lunch one time with Julie as they had stone ovens for bread and pizza making (two of my favourite foods...)

Coffee, however nice, is not a substitute for isotonic drink

Was almost in tears on cycle back for Coverack today as it seemed every time I looked at my speedo I was doing 8 miles an hour. This in the context of me 'upping the pace' as I realised the 'speed' of my ride to Coverack would have seen me time barred in Norway!

On reflection part of problem may have been lack of energy due to poor fuel intake. I had had 2 energy bars, a cheese and tomato toastie and 2 cups of coffee. My coach was not impressed when I relayed this on my return.

Next time out I will have one of my water bottles with isotonic drink as the gel I had towards the end of my ride perked me up no end (before having the gel I was completely deflated - just leaning on my handle bars watching traffic go through Blackwater)

88 miles today - took me to 152 for the week. Still feel a tad disappointed with today's effort as target was 100 but hopefully a lesson learnt re fuel intake...

(Did manage to up pace overall on way back averaging, close to 13 mph, maybe!)

Last out of the water

Despite my promises to myself that I would front crawl the whole of swim at St Ives today I did not! this was due to my continued belief that I am faster doing breast stroke than crawl AND due to the fact that even before we had got to the first buoy I was last...

Must:

• Get at least some tuition
• Practise (2 pool sessions a week and a long weekend swim for the next 5 weeks)

I was pleased that I did not 'give up' and despite hardly ever seeing one kept the effort going finally overtaking a couple of people at the end of the cycle and a few more on the run.

According to the results on VOTWO I finished 39th out of 49 starters - which sounds better than it felt!

School boy and errors and a foul mouth

Made several school boy errors in St Ives triathlon today, including:

1. Not keeping goggles and consequently losing a contact lens
2. Not getting in sea before race and acclimatising/ getting focused
3. Being in wrong gear for start of first climb; resulting in foot coming out of cleat, bike stopping and a very loud couple of swear words coming from my mouth (I did apologise to those in ear shoot)

Low ebb ended at high tide

Had an invigorating swim in water off Telissick Gardens on Thursday evening last week - after feeling low at work (and being incredibly morose and annoying to boot).

My intention had been to start pool swimming twice a week from last week but I had forgotten about my commitment to a work's do at Trelissick. Good friend Tom said I could miss the first part of the evening, tour of gardens, and slope off for a swim instead. Thanks Tom.

Swift half at Wharfdale RUFC

Well not exactly 'swift' but pleased with finishing 115 out of 220 (est) starters on the Wharfedale 1/2 marathon on 5 June. Really enjoyed the run, my first fell race, as I took part with my brother in law. Overriding memory (apart from the number of times I had to apologise to other car drivers on the way to and from Wharfedale Rugby Club) will be my brother in law charging down the final descent to catch someone who had overtaken him just before that. Awesome effort.

Had intended to follow the 1/2 marathon by watching Castleford Tigers in late kick off against Warrington - but time beat me. We did nonetheless watch the game at Julie's parents on Sky.

As a memento of the first fell race (and to try and maintain brother in laws potential interest in accompanying me at next years 3 Peaks Race) I bought brother in law a copy of 'Feet in the Clouds'. I read the first few pages and may have to buy myself a copy...

June - Big effort required

'Plan' for June:

1. Swimming - 3 times a week (with one swim to get to 160 lengths)
2. Swimming - lessons on front crawl
3. Cycling - get bike serviced
4. Cycling - get bike carrying bag (and roof rack)
5. Cycling - long ride on Saturday (to get at least 100 miles x 2)
6. Running - Wharfedale 1/2
7. Running - at least one 17-18 miler

1/2 ironman but long way to go

Did Hayle (Marazion) 1/2 marathon today and finished in 6 hours 35 minutes - overall I was 'pleased'.

Not so pleased with some specifics:

1. Swim (see below)


2. Brief altercation with Marshall over racking of my bike or rather my preference to just lean my bike against the fence


3. Being shouted at my motorist whilst cycling


4. Problems re chain slipping (must mention this when I drop bike in for service week after next)


5. Fuelling - felt hungry/ sick on the run


6. Hydration - ran out of water on bike

Swim was again frustrating: all 'training' I do is front crawl but come the event I usually end up doing breast stroke... Must sort this (physical and mental) before Norseman.

Event was superbly organised, beautiful scenery and a 'scorchio' hot day.

Phil Mitchell and the Jellyfish

A friend, Dean, did the Castle to Castle swim today Falmouth to St Mawes - which I would have done if not for fact that I had already entered another event on the same day (see next post).

If I had been there I may have seen Phil Mitchell (or rather the man that plays him) and a jellyfish the size of an armchair; both of which/whom Dean saw.

Dean finished the c1.2m swim in 36 minutes. I am impressed.

5.8 miles - a measure of my over estimation

Ran with Brother in law on bank holiday Monday. Did some 'dune' running, whilst running the length of the beach. Really enjoyed the run but was a bit disappointed when Christian's GPS fancy thingy logged run at 5.8 miles - I would have said '7'.

This probably means I have been overestimating all of my runs...

On this note I must get milometer on bike fixed so I have some indication of how far and fast I am cycling.

Like Spiderman 3 - only much better

I was a bit concerned when I set off on Saturday morning cycle this week that I may have over hyped beauty of the Lizard following conversation with Dave and Tom at work and brief conversation with 2 people in CMC on Friday.

The last 'event' I over hyped was Spiderman 3 which I had really looked forward to only to be gravely disappointed. It was a film that changed my life - robbing me of the youthful anticipation (in my late 30's/ early 40's).

Anyway, suffice to say the Lizard was not a disappointment. I hope I can keep the clarity of the sea colour in my mind for some time...

(P.S. Coincidentally when I did image search for 'Lizard' on google the first image was the one shown with article on future Spiderman films. Also, may have managed to upset my cousins boy this afternoon by asking him whether he liked S3, which he said yes, only for me to say how much I did not!)

Praa Sands - I pressume

Found Praa Sands this weekend and it was certainly worth the detour from my 'planned' cycle route. I use the word planned in its loosest sense.

All I had decided before setting off on Saturday was to cycle to the Lizard and stop there for a coffee.

Got there in good time (c 2 and half hours) and felt fresh: freshness was confirmed when someone was chatting to at coffee stop remarked that I 'looked like I had only walked across the road' to cafe.

If only he could have seen my for last 20 miles of cycle (from Hayle back to Perranporth), when I was 'hurting'... so fatigued I was coasting even on the slightest declines. Also right foot felt sore where cleat goes - shoe problem?

Overall felt satisfied with my effort - hope I covered c 70 to 80 miles - and I had a nice breakfast and two nice (origin) coffees.

P.S. Picture is Kynance Cove; somewhere I almost went when I left the Lizard. Maybe next time.

Harbouring bad practice

No this is not a blog commenting on 'MP expenses' saga.

My swim this morning was 'good' in the sense that I swam from Tolcarne to Harbour wall and back. I struggled to get any rhythm in stroke repeating the same inadequate practices I have used for the past say 5 years (need to, at least, dig out one of the books that I have acquired over the years to see what I should be doing with stroke under the water and/or speak to some of the good swimmers I know).

Si did me make feel better when I met up with him after his surf when he noted that due to high tide swim was 'long' this morning.

Also need to:

1. Get wetsuit and boots mended
2. Work on changing out of wetsuit - this morning it must have taken me 20 minutes to get out of wetsuit: not the quickest T1 transition. Time will be of the essence in Norseman...

Strange - Fruit

Strange run this afternoon for someone who:

1. Prides himself on 'never' walking on a run
2. Never thinks of the garden
3. Has had nothing but comfortable runs in my Walshs
   

Pulled myself out of slumber in the arm chair in porch and put on Walsh running shows before heading off on route that would take me to top of St Agnes Beacon and then back along the cliff path.

Felt good until part way along footpath from Wheal Coates and I began to feel very hungry: Regretting not eating a banana before I left or having any sustenance with me. Was also having 'problems' with Walshs - with right foot tunring in (due in part I think to running style and not having laces tight enough).

By the time I got to the other side of Trevallas Coombe I was obviously looking quite haggard as a nice lady said some words of encouragement as I passed by her and her dog... Walking was an increasingly tempting option as I dragged my feet round to Perranporth.

Until that is the final 1/2 mile when I had a surge of energy and sprinted home.

Picked up a some 'sea pinks' on final stretch of cliff path - which I planted when I got home.

Mike and the Dorchester triathlon

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCf9u_-T9tE

Link is to video footage of a friend of mine taking part in Dorchester triathlon.

Very impressed by fact that Mike's resolve: last year London Marathon was his target which he completed and this year's was obviously a triathlon.

Very impressed by cinematography as well - particularly at the end.

P.S. I have just watched it again with sound on - excellent musical score

Swim:slow and cut off times

Did 2nd week of pool swimming this week. Clocked up 98 lengths in 80 minutes.

Feel I need to get up to c110-120 in that time to feel comfortable re achieving cut off on the day: requirement is equivalent of 156 lengths in 150 minutes MAX (my aim will be to get within 120 minutes as my cycling is not that strong either!)

I was getting a lot slower the longer I swam which is worrying - if not surprising.

Will have a another go next week...

Full cut off times for Norseman:

1. Exit the water - 2 hours 30 minutes
2. Exit transition zone from bike to run in Austbygde (T2) - 12 hours
3. Exit cut off point at 32,5 kilometers, to finish at Gaustatoppen. The point is at the cross road to Gaustablikk Høyfjellshotell - 14 hours 30 minutes
4. Exit cut off point at 37,5 kilometers, to finish at Gaustatoppen - 15 hours 30 minutes
5. Exit cut off point at 32,5 kilometers, to finish at Gaustablikk Høyfjellshotell to get the white t-shirt -17 hours 30 minutes

B3280

Despite tiredness (one of my bosses rang me at gone midnight to ask what entry code for work was - alarm was going off apparently) and probably the strongest wind I have cycled in, I did cycle to Penzance and back this morning/ afternoon.

Was very slow getting there - due to:

1. Cycling into the wind


2. Getting 'lost' round Redruth


3. Need to look at map at regular intervals to ensure I was still on 'right track' (Still managed to confuse Perran Sands with Praa Sands and fail in my attempt to see the later!)

Quite quick (for me) on way back from Penzance to Perranporth - less than 2.5 hours - wind assisted.

Note: B3280 is the road I cycled down this morning not work's alarm code.

Arsenal I still love you...

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/may/10/arsenal-chelsea-premier-league

12 weeks to change my life

12 weeks to go.

Must get myself in shape to finish the Norseman.

Should also the opportunity to become more like the person I wish I was...

Need for a revision plan

Last week was again 'not the best' for exercise:

• 1 x 3 mile run
• 1 x 7 mile cycle
• 3 x swims (one in pool - see below)

The pool swim was 'ok' but slow - 68 lengths took me c 1 hour. Need to check cut off time but expect it is c 2.5 hours for equivalent of 160 lengths...

Until Thursday night I had not really thought (enough) about the Norseman for a number of weeks. Nor had I remembered how close I was to missing the cut off time on the bike leg at Lanzarote. Next week (tomorrow) I need to look at Norseman website and remind myself on all cut off times etc.

Also, need to construct training schedule that I stick to!

For next week:

• Monday - cycle (20) + run (10)
  
• Tuesday - cycle (20) + swim (60l)
  
• Wednesday - swim (100l)
• Thursday - run (6)
  
• Friday - swim (or cycle, if can change work arrangements for Thursday night)
• Saturday - cycle (60)
  
• Sunday - run (10) + swim in sea

Most stick to this (and plan out longer-term schedule).

Not a spot on the old me

Got a huge spot on my back at the moment, which follows on from one on my nose. A sign of tiredness?

Condoms and beer cans

Went in for swim with Si (reluctantly, if there had been even anything that looked like a wave Si would have gone in for a surf) at Newquay Bay. We ended up parking alongside a (used?) condom and further illustration of Newquay's less than picturesque side were provided by the collage of beer cans and cigarette butts on the rocks as we made our way into the sea.

Water was cold - so cold in fact that I could not compete with Si and acknowledged that the only way I could continue swimming was with rash vest hood well and truly over my head...

Swam to Tolcarne beach and back and felt 'good'.

All guns blazing

Tuesday sees Arsenal take on Man Utd in second leg of Champions League semi-final.

Julie and I will be sitting down full of anticipation (which is building here already!).

My hope is of course for a Arsenal victory that sees them through to the final.

And I hope they just go for it... as I feel Man Utd will score and consequently Arsenal will need to win by 2 clear goals.

I feel they can do it! (the image below is one I would like to see repeated on Tuesday - although scoreline on that day would not be sufficient...)

The week ahead in terms of exercise

Monday - swim and run?
Tuesday - swim (can not cycle as need to have car at work)
Wednesday - swim or cycle after work with James?
Thursday - run before work
Friday - cycle with Simon M (60?) ie aim is take 1/2 day off
Saturday - sea swim
Sunday - cycle (8-9 off road) with Si and Royzy(*) + run?

* = a royzy request

Looking forward to it all.

P.S. Have entered Hayle 1/2 Iron Man on 31/5 so must must start swimming seriously!

Born Again?

After a swim at Great Western yesterday and a run on Perranporth beach today I feel rejuvenated...

Run was especially good; went up onto the coast path before running down onto the beach (so hopefully 7-8 miles all together) and felt 'strong'.

Swim was 'ok' if a bit directionless - spent c45 minutes in the water concentrating on 'technique' - 'reach and roll'. Apres swim was lovely: coffee and then breakfast on Tolcarne beach with Julie and Si. Relaxing...

(Picture is cover from my favourite comic book - highly recommend anyone to read it)

Lost for speed

On the weekend on 18/4 and 19/4 I was outpaced on all three triathlon disciplines:

Run - Si out sprinted me along footpath at top of Fistral beach (*)

Cycle - everyone overtook me on any flat or downhill part of the North Cornwall Tor

Swim - Si (again) this time on our swim round the Headland

* = I did get some revenge on way back across beach but this was after being completely out swam (and Si had not been in swimming for weeks - whereas I had!).

Lesson learned (maybe) was that I need to train with others/ compete in events in the lead up to Norseman to ensure I do not get into 'ploddy pace'.

(Must give Anthony a call re running - once he has recovered from his 3.27 London Marathon - well done Anthony).

100 miles (and short on smiles)

Maybe it has taken me 3 weeks to recover from North Cornwall Tor (completed 19/4).

It was certainly tough. I have been asked whether it was the toughest cycle I have done - and I responded 'yes'. (Not that I have done a great deal of cycling...)

Very, very pleased to finish and, despite my claims to enjoy uphills, did not want to see another hill to cycle up. In fact, had lost all sense of humour towards the end and felt my energy being drained into the tarmac of the last 2 hills in particular (cumulative effect).

Superbly organised (albeit by people with sadistic tendencies - one of the hills was so steep an ambulance was stuck, waiting to be towed, when I got there...)

Took me 9 hours 11 minutes and I heard someone remark 'he does not looked happy!' when I crossed the finish line.

Finished with sun tanned (some may say burned) wrists and knees - must remember sun cream for future rides on lovely sunny days - and could not sleep the night after as gels (caffeine?) still working through my system.

I will not be doing the 100 again but I am looking forward to doing 70 next year with (hopefully) James.

P.S. I realised when I printed off the manual that I was on the front cover and on the North Cornwall Tor website front page.

Time...

'Doesn't time fly'...

I have no idea why I have not blogged for 2 +weeks but then again I have not done much exercise to blog about - e.g., last week the only exercise I did during the week was one cycle to and from work.

I am very prone to letting work 'take over' and feeling I 'have to' work longer and longer hours to get 'things done'. Trouble is I get (mentally) absorbed in work to the detriment of everything else and the problem is exasperated if I do not exercise.

Solution = exercise.

Maybe I should enter an event to ensure I get out there and exercise regularly.

Well there's a corking idea. Wish I had thought of that earlier.

I had...

The Norseman...

(only 13 weeks to go)

Zero content fitness regime

My regime this week has seen 0 cycles, 0 runs and 0 swims.

Not best preparation for Norseman or even 100 mile cycle ride on Sunday.

Need to get 'stuff' together for cycle ride, including:

• Bike service/ check brakes etc
• Spare inner tubes
• Camel back/ water bottles
• Energy bars
• Gels
• Directions
• Print map
• Read instructions...

(Note to self: Interestingly, I have forgotten 'good disciplines' re cycling to work, recording exercise done and recording money spent over the last 2 weeks - resulting in no/ little exercise and excessive cash spend!)

Hopefully, I can pass this test...

Need for balance

Wry smile on my face when my nephew expressed his anxiety over the bike ride this morning - as I was feeling anxious as well!

Whilst nephew had remembered how tired he was after the last time we had been out with Si I was recalling my embarrassment over the number of times I had to get off and walk.

Anyway, nephew felt so fresh after today's ride that he said he wanted to go round again - not sure how much this buzz was from 'chocoholic milkshake' he had at our coffee stop... Nephew was able to follow Si down and around all the paths and even took the lead through part of our water ride - the Gannel was at a reasonably full tide and at one point we had no choice but to go through the water.

Si set me a challenge at the conclusion of the ride 'more cycling, less walking' next time - a challenge I must rise to as I appreciate that more confidence/ balance on the bike would be a great assist in improving my downhill cycling.

(Used the excuse in my mind today that I had to go into work today or was it that I had a 100 mile cycle to do the following weekend... If only there were prizes for self delusion...)

Front row seats

Went to see Plymouth Raiders play basketball on Sunday with Julie, royzy and nephew. Superb entertainment despite Plymouth losing: never recovering from first quarter where the Cheshire Jets scored with nearly every shot, quickly getting a 20 point lead.

We were on the front row and royzy even caught the ball as it came towards him during the warm up. I couldn't help thinking that it had come towards me it would have hit me in the face before I had reacted so well done royzy on quick reflexes. Well done to royzy and Julie as well for correctly identifying the key man for Cheshire, Virgil.

P.S. Plymouth Raiders obviously found form for today's game beating one of their rivals for a top four place 96-67.

Par excellence

Started the day with a lovely if cold (forgot my gloves!) sea swim at Fistral - surf was clean and quite large and I swam for c 45 minutes.

After picking up nephew, he, Julie and I went to play 'golf' at Hollywell Bay in glorious sunshine: often gazing over to the rocks off the beach (pictured).

I was much more 'mature' than I had been previously (Wilf take note) and inspired by a late Arsenal comeback (which I followed on my mobile) I played quite well over the last 3 - 4 holes. I felt so pleased with myself I sat down and watched the Masters over the next 2 evenings: cheering on Tiger.

A good friday

Finished work miserable on Thursday as I had realised towards the end of the day that I was going to have to go in on bank holiday Monday - which I had hoped to avoid (whilst pleased to be busy I was keen to have some time off).

My misery soon dissipated on Friday when I had a very enjoyable cycle out to Godrevy in the Easter sun shine.

Foundations on sand

Woke up one morning this long weekend with the thought that my sporting/ fitness foundations were not exactly solid; well not solid enough for the Norseman or even the 'easier' events I have entered beforehand.

Need to get a regime in place.

57th out of 167

Title is my result from Saturday's coastal 1/2 marathon. I am pleased.

But this does also show how fast the people who do the 3 Peaks Race must be... (as my pace was slower than that required to make the first cut-off for that event)

Serious thinking: Sensible decision

Have pulled out of 3 Peaks Race.

Maybe next year I will be 'man enough'

'A mans race...'

I have just spent the last 1 hour looking at the Three Peaks Race route and specifically cut off times and just come to (almost) a decision to pull out. I appreciate I should have checked this earlier bu the cut off times are TIGHT: the first one is 2 hours 10 minutes for 18.14 km (11 miles), which is a quicker pace than I ran the 1/2 marathon yesterday...

Need to do some serious thinking!

Slower than average...

Earlier I was on Endurance Life website looking at future events and stumbled on section which has average finish times for events. I noted that average for men (in 2008) on Cornish Coastal 1/2 marathon was 2:26:26.

My time was 2:26:46... Must try harder!

9.6 for dismount

Sea swimming this morning at Fistral beach. Lovely clean surf and a reasonable size for the surfers, Si included, at 4 feet plus. My swim outback was one I would dream of for Perranporth triathlon, with surf breaking to my right and left - but a clear path directly in front of me (*).

As I got out back I watched as Si caught a wave and swept down out of sight before reappearing on the lip and diving high off the board into the water behind the wave. Dive looked technically superb.

I swam for between 30-45 minutes and felt afterwards that I should have done more. Went for a 1/2 mile jog on the beach to loosen up/ try out aching limbs and sore ankle.

(Julie has a programme, Countryfile, that featured something called Gill Scrambling that looks fun and is now talking about mountain rescue and Julie for some reason felt I should pay attention to with 3 Peaks Race in mind...)

* = I have had one such Perranporth triathlon swim so wishing for another would be greedy - although I got to grips with understanding rips etc I could probably pick out clearer routes out back: a task for the summer with Si and Steve's help)

Only the lady and vegetarian sausage spoiled a near perfect day

Really enjoyed the 1/2 marathon yesterday. Felt strong up until the end and pleased with myself for pushing myself (I.e., running faster than my usual steady plod) and for finishing within my target time - 2 hours 30. Ache today and had to hold the bannister coming the stairs this morning as felt doddery on legs - ankles and calf's particularly sore. Can not let Julie know level of discomfort otherwise she will talk me out of 3 Peaks Race (25/4).

Julie came with me yesterday and walked the 10km route and saw how beautiful the scenery is at Cape Cornwall. Went after to Sennen for a bite to eat - disappointing - and I let the lady on the table next to me get right under my skin as she was giving her world view to the 2 girls in her charge... But soon forgotten.

Congragulations to Endurance Life for organising such a super event.

Running away with myself

Need to focus.

Next Saturday I am hopefully running in the 1/2 marathon at Cape Cornwall. Need to sort out:

1. Entry - I am currently entered in full marathon so need to find out if I can swap!
2. Emergency foil blanket and camel back - two of required kit list (*)
3. Directions.

Have at least bought myself some, reasonably discreet, running shorts so that is a start.

* = I have a camel back - just need to make sure it works! Not exactly sure where to go for blanket so had better start looking tomorrow.

Come on you Tigers

Ended up listening a bit of the radio commentary from the Rugby League this afternoon whilst in the car and nicely it was Castleford Tigers. As we have seen them twice in Boxing Day friendlies in the last 2 years even Julie was interested.

When we turned off the radio Castleford were losing so it was a pleasant surprise when I checked the score on ceefax later and saw 'Castleford snatch victory'.

(This has reminded me I need to sort tickets for Wakefield v Wigan IF we are going to Yorkshire next month for 3 Peaks Race...)

All work no play

Not exactly a true reflection of the day as I did 'play' this afternoon - visiting friends.

Decided that work must be a priority this morning and so no exercise.

Will aim to take Wednesday afternoon off in lieu of this morning and will cycle to the Lizard - Tom reliably informed me that this would be 54 mile round trip from Truro.

(Note: I have just AA route planner to give me an indication of mileage and 27 miles to the Lizard and 37 miles back from Lizard to Perranporth, so including the 10 miles into Truro that would give me a 74 mile cycle - might be a bit ambitious for a Wednesday afternoon even with the clocks going forward and giving me an extra hours daylight... May instead opt for trip to Helford Passage - 49 miles in total. This is all hypothetical as it would mean me being organised enough at work to get away for the afternoon! A challenge in itself!)

Lack of focus takes me to Chacewater

Telephone rang at 8.45am on Saturday morning. The result of the phone call was I ran to Chacewater and back to collect some keys from Scott.

Scott was quite fortuitous as:

1. On a normal Saturday morning I would have been out and about cycling by the time he rang but I was feeling so tired I had decided to sleep in; and,
2. I had no idea where I was going to run to that morning only that I wanted to do about 16 and Chacewater was about 7 - 8 miles away

Really enjoyed the run and felt quite strong.

So a 'win-win'.

In danger of falling short

After cycle to St Ives and back (c 50 miles), followed by a quick run (2 miles) yesterday and quick dip in the sea this morning I was looking forward to Julie saying she wanted to go for a walk this afternoon and I could use this as an excuse to miss my 'planned' 14 mile run.

But Julie said she was gardening so after a quick nap on the sofa following lunch I headed out.

Heavy footed, so heavy footed I fell over, pace was laborious at first.

Not sure when I started to feel better but views from top of Beacon and along the coast path from Wheal Coates to St Agnes were especially beautiful.

Need to hold the positive feeling and push on from here - next weekend needs to be a 70 mile cycle and 16 mile run. (Also need to remember I can not sleep between the disciplines in the Norseman!).

3 Peaks Race: Map Refs

Have been reading website for 3 Peaks Race and have been reminded that in addition to compass etc, I need to know how to read a map, as you have find your own route!

Given I struggled to find Mr T-Shirt when I got out of the sea this morning my basic sense of direction would also seem to need to some work.

Have started preparation by goggling 'map references' and found http://website.lineone.net/~galaxypix/maprefs.html which I found useful, particularly picture with 513827 on it. I think next stage is for me to get a map of the 3 Peaks area, find the map references on the 3 Peaks Race website and then try and understand what map is telling me re terrain and best route - may need to ask Peter for help (he seemed to be able to distill a map quickly).

Also, need to sort accommodation for night before race - tomorrow's task.

P.S. All the above on basis that I satisfy Julie I am fit enough to do run

Nice day for it

Above expression was ushered to me by one of the surfers in at Penhale this morning and weather wise he was correct - not sure how rideable surf there was.

I was in swimming, at what was a new spot for me and one I shall definitely be returning to. A fantastic visage when we got out of the car and stood looking out over the tops of the dunes.

Admittedly on reflection I should have paid greater attention to my surroundings as when I got out and finally saw Mr T-Shirt waving to me I headed up the dunes in his general direction, only to find I was lost! Spend about 10 minutes wandering around before giving up and thinking I would have to walk home. At that stage I fortuitously saw Mr T-Shirt by his car, so all ended well.

Whilst in the water had a flashback to 2004 Perranporth triathlon at one stage when I found myself waist deep after what felt like 10 minutes of swimming 'through' the breakers

Regardless, must try and persuade Si to come for a surf at Penhale as it was quite stunning: when in the water I felt I could have been in at Famara, Lanzarote - one of my favourite beaches (based on my one visit).

Quantitative easing

Thought a bit about macro economic theory as I was running today.

As soon as I was at least 1 mile from the nearest public toilet I felt an urge to pooh and despite myself I could not stop thinking it: looking at every bush and off track clearing as a possible site to squat and surveying the vegetation for anything I could use as toilet paper.

Then I thought about whether I could apply 'quantitative easing' to my situation - which in my case was to ease pressure with small explosion of air from my bottom; without 'following through'.

The technique worked to a degree - but I was very pleased when I found toilets were open at Holywell Bay!

(For a better understanding of 'quantitative easing' in its economic use suggest reading http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantitative_easing for a starter for ten... Not entirely sure I understand yet)

Back in the running

Lovely run this morning. Sun was shinning, nice cool breeze as I ran to St Agnes and then back along the cliffs - superb start to the day.

Need some big weekends of exercise if I am going to be ready for 100 mile cycle on 19/4 and 3 Peaks Race the following weekend. Have pencilled in 2 weekends with 70 mile bike rides and 16 mile runs for weekends following this one.

Have also decided to downgrade from marathon to 1/2 marathon for first weekend in April...

Busy: Fool

The song lyric which kept running through my head this week was 'I sit and chew on daffodils and struggle to answer why' from a song on Marillion 'Script for a Jester's tear', I think.

No exercise for 4 days as work took over. Did 2 of the longest days I have ever worked. At the end of the week, however, very little satisfaction for me and I managed to erode good feeling I had built up with some people at work...

On the positive side, it could be a 'life changing experience' IF I learn from the mistakes made. I am resolved to do so. What this means is a more focused cost/ benefit analysis of tasks and assignments carried out at work - and also to deploy the same skills to Norseman training.

Happy Birthday to Mr T-Shirt

It was Mr T-Shirt's birthday this weekend. I was so pleased with the present we bought him (obviously hope he was at least equally pleased!)

I hope the gift will inspire him to get back into surfing - with first session of the year pencilled in for next Sunday. Fingers crossed for clean surf.

Not a bad week for exercise but room for improvement...

On the positives managed to cycle into work 3 times, did one, albeit short, run during the week and managed one sea swim.

On the negative; no long bike ride or run at the weekend and no swims during the week.

Next weeks target:

1. Swim during the week x 2 (Tuesday and Friday)
2. Cycle to work x 3 during the week
3. Cycle down to St Just on Saturday
4. Sea swim + 6 mile run on Sunday
5. Continue to collect 'tips'
6. Book arrangements for Norway

I know I have been here, i.e., setting targets, before but must persevere. Need to hit targets and build 1 to 4, or similar, into weekly routine...

No progress on Norway bookings this week as problems with PC/ Norton.

'it is dangerous to fall asleep on the cycle'

I have lent my copy of this months 220 to Si but the quote from an experienced participant in the deca ironman was something like that in my blog title.

A Deca Iron man is 10 x Ironman distances; that is:

• 24 mile swim
• 1120 mile cycle
• 262 mile run

from the reading I have done participants usually have 14 days to do the event; which the writer of the article in 220 broke down, I recall, as one day for the swim and 6 days each for cycle and run.

Why was I reading this? No, Julie I am not stupid enough to think I could do this, but it is amazing the first of these events in the UK will be held in Fowey, Cornwall. Out of curiosity I logged onto the website http://www.enduroman.com/decaironuk.html and will leave with the following for now...

• Only 12 days allowed for this event
• Swim is in pool, circa 1,600 lengths
• Cycle is laps of 187 miles (a day)
• Run is 52 miles (a day)
• A day = 21 hours maximum (yes, they stipulate '21 hours cut off')
• The max entrants = 24; 5 people have entered so far.

P.S. just reading the training regime of the person who wrote the article for 220 was sufficient to leave me feeling very very tired... Awesome.

cold feet (and rest of body)

Had another most enjoyable swim yesterday (Saturday 7/3) morning. Went in the sea at Great Western and for some reason abandoned my normal sensible motto of 'swim parallel to the shore' and swam 'out to sea'. I was aiming for a rock which looked a little way out but within swimming distance. I never made it as even after swimming for circa 30 minutes and getting to edge of the cliff with the Atlantic Hotel on it, the rock was still some way off.

Began to feel a little cold as I swam back to shore and by the time I met up with Si and we headed in I was feeling more than a little cold. I did not warm up for some hours after. Regardless, I felt pleased with my efforts.

I had asked someone from Perranporth Surf Life Saving Club for one tip and the response was 'reach and roll' - I did experiment with my interpretation of this and did feel for a brief time that I was swimming better. Difficult to bench mark with nobody else swimming though.

Not sure I am ready for another swim session with Perranporth Surf Life Saving Club yet though Simon L, still haunted by my experience last time (my stroke was described, accurately, as 'a blind man reaching tentatively in the dark').

Need to build some swimming into my weekly routine and need to have lessons to compliment my 'tips'... (I shall continue with my request for tips on all disciplines)

Nine Inch Nails and musical top trumps

In addition to sport one of my other 'loves' is music and one of my favourite bands, if not my favourite is Nine Inch Nails. Consequently, I was very pleased when I received an email telling me I could down load their new album - thanks royzy.

I will hopefully by able to master the technology required and buy a CD this week and add the album to my collection; currently in the car for this months listening...

I play a kind of 'top trumps' when people talk about the bands they have seen and had to admit defeat early on when talking to one of the ladies at work who had seen Marvin Gaye (with Stevie Wonder on piano) and the Sex Pistols amongst others!

Norway here we come

Subject to some fine tuning of itinary (see below) we are ready to book flights, boat, car and accomodation etc for Norway.

Si's one change to itinary would be for us to try and fit in a visit to 'pulpit rock' (Preikestolen).

Images and views - 2

After getting changed following sea swim this morning I did something I do not normally do - took in the view.

I was standing outside Fistral Blu looking at the sea. The sun was shinning and the sea was a turquoise and the sands golden. I thought 'I am so fortunate I live by the sea'. (Which is a little strange as I had no desire to live by the sea when the family moved down here and it is only in the last 8 - 10 years I actually spent any significant time in or by the sea).

Later, when I was planning my afternoon run I decided I would run up onto the cliffs so that I could see the expanse of sand at Perranporth as I rounded the corner at Droskyn Point - a beautiful view particualarly when the tide is right out as it was.

Did a slow 7+ miles and felt content.

Images and views - 1

Had a really unpleasant image cross my mind a couple of times whilst I was in the sea this morning...

I was in the water first, swimming, while Si was fastening his leash and got a head start in the 'race' (I see it as a race anyway!) to get out back. The swim/ paddle out was difficult as white water was 'relentless' and waves were breaking some way out.

Si quickly over took me on my left. Next time I looked up he was on right and then he disappeared.

I assumed he got out back, so my initial response was to try even harder to make my way through the waves.

Eventually got behind the last set and looked for Si and could not see him.

I must have then panicked a bit because an image similar to that in the 'kill your speed or live with it' adverts floated into my mind - with the body in the water, face looking up at me...

I did not stay in the water long, returning to the beach to scan the waves for Si.

Ended up watching what I thought was Si at South Fistral, only for Si to appear from the north of the beach - explaining that he had struggled a bit but having been beaten back once, he refocused, shouted at himself and made his way out back.

Norway here we come?

Tomorrow hopefully should be in a position to start booking flights etc. Itinerary and costs to go through with Si tomorrow morning when we meet up for swim/ surf.

February has not been the best month for exercise/ training. I will add up the mileage later but I do not think I have built on the base laid in December and January. That said, I have:

1. Done 2 longer cycle rides in the past 2 weeks
2. Done some training in 8 of the past 10 days, I think
3. Been swimming!

Swimming and specifically swimming lessons is a must for March...

(Together at least one 70 mile cycle ride)

or is N for 'Nice view for the sheep'

On climb out of Porthleven today the views, past the field of sheep, were beautiful: back down to the harbour and up the coast.

N = Nice man Peter teaches me a lesson

Went for a long bike ride this morning; which was good. Probably did 55 miles as I cycled to Perranworthal Station to meet with Peter and James, then off to Porthleven for a coffee and cake. Came back through Godolphin Cross and Four Lanes before we parted company and made my way back to Perranporth.

Fortunately, it was when I was on my own when I completely bonked - ended up feeling 'distressed' when I 'needed' sugar and found Blackwater stores was closed. Managed to struggle up hill (previously my favourite hill!) to garage where I bought and downed in large gulps a sports drink before feeling ready to continue.

The ride itself was very much an education - with Peter looking so good uphill and downhill and on the flat. James and I got a little left behind. James has suggested I get different (smoother) tyres for Norseman - must remember to follow this up.

P.S. The reference to 'nice man' is genuine - Peter is a real gentleman, particularly on the 5-aside pitch: determined/ tough, skillful and fair.

or is A for Advertees

Advertees, my co-operative sponsor has reminded me of (moral) obligation to mention Cornwall's foremost t-shirt printers.

or is A for Artic Cathedral

Situated in Tromso, where it looks like we will be spending a night and a day...

or is A for April Fool

As previously blogged, I set myself a challenging April events schedule to spur me on.

However,

1. February has not been the best month for training (featuring 8 days, and counting, of no training and only long bike ride)
2. My scanning of this months 220 magazine said a run of more than 18 miles in training for a Iron Man is counter productive.

I still want to have a go at 3 peaks (and I have said to people I am doing it!) and the North Cornwall Tor is a must (as I failed to finish last year AND it is a superb endurance test) so I am minded to drop the Cornish Coastal Marathon down to a half...

(P.S. If I am going to do 3 peaks I will need to mention this to Julie. Do not want to disturb her at the moment as she is planning Norway itinerary AND she we tell me (again) I am stupid).

A = Arsenal pants

No that is not 'Arsenal are pants'. (I know my nephew and Nick R would think that was more appropriate phrase!)

It is a reference to my lucky Arsenal pants that I used to wear on match days; sometimes at during a game if Arsenal were a goal down. I did not keep a record of the pants success rate but my recollection is that as soon as I put them on Arsenal's fortunes would change...

What ever happened to those pants? I must ask Julie.

M = Mileage

Thought I had done my first 50 mile cycle training ride yesterday but on AA route planner Perranporth to Padstow clocks in at a mere 22 miles. So even allowing for detour to parents and some extra miles in getting across Perranporth and into centre of Padstow I can't see me getting above 47-48.

A good challenging ride nonetheless and felt satisfied with efforts; particularly as it was such a struggle to get out of bed and on the bike. Really enjoyed an Origin coffee in Padstow - worth trawling round to find a cafe that did Origin.

Felt 'ok' after so that is reasonably encouraging but have to bear in mind that I have cyclosportif (North Cornwall Tor) over tougher terrain and covering more than twice the distance in 8 weeks so more time in the saddle required...

I had a first today when I had planned to do a 6 mile run and ended up running 10 miles (through choice). I had set off across the beach feeling heavy (late lunch) only to feel inspired to do carry on at end of beach and climb onto coast path round to Hollywell Bay. Ploddy pace but nice warm sunshine.

E = Eidfyord

Eidfyord is the start for the Norseman. We will be there from 6/8 until 5am on 8/8.

We shall hopefully get to see the Vøringsfossen - 182m waterfall.

S = Sound of fear

Anxious running: fear of the dark

To my left black cliff
Silhouette looms in the night sky
With a sense of foreboding
On my right
I can make out the white horses of the breaking waves
A splash under foot
Unsettles
A nervous glance
But the sea is still
A safe distance away
But still heart races
As tendrils of darkness reach out
Distort reality

Torch light
In front of me, confuses
The arc of the light
An irrational pattern
Further heightens my anxiety
What are those people doing?
Appear to be moving fast
Darting along cliff edge
I run away; accelerate to the open area
Past flat rocks

Torch light behind me now
Flat sands in front
Illuminated by the street lighting in the distance
I breath easier
And can hear my footfall
And the clinking of keys
In my pocket
Sounds I could not detect
A few minutes earlier; drowned out by
the sound of (irrational) fear...

R = royzy

Check out more of his work...

• website


• blog

Impressive...

or does O = Otta but not Oslo

Spent late morning and early afternoon planning the Norway trip with Julie and Si. Provisional plan is to arrive 5/8 in Bergen, with rough itinery as follows:

• 6/8 to 7/8 - Eidfjord
• 8/8 - Race
• 9/8 - Fly to Tromso
• 10/8 - 12/8 - On Ferry from Tromso to Trondheim
• 12/8 - 15/8 - Trondheim to Bergen via Otta

Something for everyone, including bungee jump for Si and whitewater rafting (possibly) for Julie.

My only concern is that given the number of late night/ early morning departures on ferry and bus is there appears to be little time for sleep!

Really looking forward to it - now beginning to take shape. (Now I have to get into shape...)

O = "Only going 1/2 way then?"

Had what I reckon was one of my two best ever swims ever this morning.

Do not understand why, as this week was another week, where work got in the way of swimming (is this really what is happening or just an excuse I am not sure!). Felt really strong and fluid in the water for parts of swim which is very unusual for me and I had no desire to resort to breaststroke, which is even more unusual.

Ended up swimming from North to South Fistral and back (approx 1 mile). Would have got out earlier on way back but as I swam up to Si who was surfing he said "Only going 1/2 way then?" which spurred me on to carry onto level level with end of car park.

Started retching while swimming and this continued while I went for short run - do not know what brought it on (cold? or apprehension?). Anyway, felt really pleased with my efforts (swimming not retching!).

P.S. Si's coaching methods became a little less subtle when I saw me stopped after running - he chucked a pebble at me whilst cajoling me for stopping...

N is for Norseman

'You look shattered' was a comment by Si this morning whilst we were getting changed to into the sea.

The picture on my face at the time of Si's comment was actually one of cold mixed by frustration as I was struggling to get my neoprene mittens on but the comment nonetheless summed the way I have been feeling. Not sure why but I have not been sleeping well and maybe the cycle in on Tuesday morning had taken a lot out of me. Anyway, could not muster the energy or enthusiasm to go for Saturday morning cycle and had a, lovely, 12 mile walk with Julie instead.

Woke up this morning and it is was a effort to get out of bed in the cold.

However, approximately 2 1/2 hours later was feeling buoyed up having been in the sea for a swim; sandwiched between two short runs across Fistral beach: we ended up swimming from South to North Fistral. Water was cold but not unpleasant or your face for spells of front crawl.

However, my frustration with my new mittens had resulted in me leaving the glove off and consequently, my left hand was so cold I was wary of getting straight in the shower and experiencing the 'painful' tingling that would follow my hand warming up too quickly.

I said to Si that I needed to run to try and get some feeling back/ circulation back. Si told me to 'do a Mike Channon' - tip for getting blood back into your finger tips passed onto him by a ski instructor. The technique involves making a circular motion with your arm whilst running - replicating the 70's striker's goal celebration. It works...

I may need it again after exiting the fjord in Norseman. Hoping the swim is a platform for renewed, disciplined, training effort and to getting accommodation etc sorted. 'Plan' for week ahead is:

• Mon - Cycle 20 miles
• Tues - Swim 60 lengths
• Wed - Cycle 20 miles + Run 6
• Thur - Swim 60 lengths
• Fri - Cycle 20 miles
• Sat - Cycle 50 miles
• Sun - Sea swim + Run?

Will also dig out book on swimming (properly) and research into swimming lessons.

Here goes...

E = End game

Was reminded on Tuesday of one my (many) faults - forgetting what the 'end game' is...

It had snowed on Monday afternoon and I was pleased with my effort in cycling back from Truro to Perranporth - a really enjoyable experience in the magical half light as snow reflected the dusk sun. Roads were almost deserted; most people having left for home earlier (wary of the chaos that followed the last heavy snow that fell a few years ago.)

Got home exhilarated and determined to ride in the next morning whatever the weather (well almost whatever). Woke early to a fresh snow fall and wrapped up warm set off. Had to walk up hill at end of Perrancombe, due to compact snow/ ice causing wheel to spin, and choose to walk down Kenwyn Hill as it looked very slippy - evidenced by car being unable to turn off the main road (in the end my 'manly' efforts to help out the damsels in distress were rendered superfluous by a man, a 4 x 4 and a rope).

Got in to our office an hour and a half after leaving home too find I had focused too much on the journey - the mental concentration and physical effort in making my way in had left me 'wasted'. Had an 'ok' day but bit of disappointment in terms of productivity - should have thought about what I wanted to achieve when I had to work...

This is not new to me; one of my 'favourites' was when I had just joined the firm I work for now and was involved in a presentation - I focused so much on the actual presentation that when I finished talking I just 'turned off'. Unfortunately, the presentation was followed by Q&A session and I could not even remember my name.

In the context of Norseman - I have to remember the end game is to finish (as opposed to getting on start list!). And, also to remember that Norseman is the 'end game' for me physically in 2009 as opposed to the marathons I have scheduled in as training in April (Note: I read yesterday in 220 magazine that a Ironman trainee should not look to have a long run greater than 18 miles - so may have to reconsider my plans for April).

H is for Hotels, Help and Hoping

Finally got around to sending a couple of emails to Hotels in Eidfjord for the 2 days before the Norseman. Maybe not surprisingly, the responses were 'no rooms available'. Have now tried Eidfjord Tourist Office - fingers crossed.

I have asked the Tourist Office about 'Huts' as Julie informs me that these are campsite accommodation (and has pointed me in a direction of pictures on Destination Eidfjord website - one shown at foot of this blog).

Julie has I believe secured us accommodation for the night/ early morning after the event.

I have also emailed Endurance Life to see if they can give me any assistance on the day specifically. I had left it too late to get one of their 'team' places. Again, fingers crossed as this would take some pressure off my 'team'.

Have started to give some thought to where we might go and what we might do post the event. Temptation is go North...

Had a good run this morning; running back from work (Truro) to Perranporth. Felt good. Time not fast (1 hour 45 minutes ish) but was pleasantly surprised to find myself actually enjoying myself.

T is for tension

Have decided to do 11 more blogs while I think seriously about whether I am ever going to ready to do the the Norseman. This has been brought on by the realisation yesterday:

1. I have not got any accommodation or travel or anything that could be titled 'logistics' for the event sorted
2. I am still staying at work until 7pm AND not going swimming (see below)
3. Even my cycling is lessening...
4. I am no longer confident in my ability to keep up with Perranporth Posse - and have consequently avoided going out with them since the New Year
5. I have swum a total of 20 lengths in 2009
6. I can see the whole 'event' being a source of tension between Julie and I in the lead up, the day and for months, maybe even years after...

Had a very enjoyable cycle with Tom this morning - set off with Simon M but he and group of 3 went off towards Zennor as I headed for Lanner. Tom and I did Lanner to Godrevy, where wee stopped for lovely coffee and cake at Godrevy cafe and meet with Tom's wife and baby girl, before heading back.

Felt better afterwards than I had before.

Dealing with my inadequacies: the impetus for cycling up hill

Went for most enjoyable bike ride this morning with Si and Danny (nephew). I had asked Si to map out a route that I hopped would be challenging but suitable for Danny, aged 11 - and he did just that; taking us off road along the Gannel, round Pentire Headland, behind Fistral and down to the Harbour.


I confess I walked bits of it - bottling any steep and/or stepped downhill. I feel off 3 times: unable to keep by balance and/or positioning on one piece of
narrow track in particular.

Danny did excellently, especially on downhill - it is amazing we are related. Si was awesome.

On today's ride I have figured out why I have developed a 'habit' of attacking uphill segments on any ride I go on - it is to to show I can do something...

Promised myself (and Si and Danny) I would endeavour to improve bike handling skills with the aim of cycling more of the route next time - I would like to progress to cycling steps but first downhill segments at point of Pentire Headland and just past Lewinnick. Also, would love to be able to 'jump' - key skill for more difficult off road cycling it would seem - but at present can not get front wheel off the floor...

I can see a few more months of attacking up hill segments in front of me!

A tired 10

'Arduous' was the word I would use to describe what should have been a easy 10 mile run yesterday morning. I can honestly say I can not remember feeling as uninspired and flat on a run ever.

Yes, there have a number of occasions where I start of sluggish but more often than not after say 4 miles I feel 'good' but not yesterday...

(Note: picture is not of me...)

3 Peaks Race here I come

Entered the 3 Peaks Race on Monday when entries opened and as far as I know I am in.

I was a bit concerned the organisers may not process/ allow my entry as I have not done a Fell Race previously but I was hopeful that my history of marathons (14), including 3 off road would be sufficient/ persuasive so I mentioned everything in on line entry. Now I need to get training and learn how to use a compass etc otherwise I am going to look very stupid.

(Given my comments in earlier blogs that I have struggled to find some not small places, Illogan and Four Lanes for example, I would concede that Julie is quite right to question my directional awareness.)

Anyway, the rationale remains to do a series of hard endurance events in April as preparation for Norseman. I decided early in week to abandon meeting up with Anthony for Sunday morning run in favour of 19 mile coastal run to build up stamina and practice off road. Next stage will to get kitted out for 3 Peaks Run and practice in the kit.

19 miles ish = good ish

Did my 19 mile run this morning; which I felt quite pleased about in itself.

Run was mainly 'good':

1. Felt physically strong - apart from 'wounded knee' (see below)


2. Took gel on board before I 'bonked' this time


3. Had 4 pieces of toast with jam and marmite for breakfast which seemed to provide more sustenance than cereal I had last time out


4. Weather for early part of run was less than pleasant wind and 2 hail storms (sore ears but makes the run more 'fun')


5. Shoes are very comfortable - Walsh's are great

Left knee was only negative. Sore from about 14/15 miles out. Not a great deal of pain - more annoying but still sore when walking downhill when I popped out for a short walk with Julie just now.

The only times I have had a sore knee when running before is on South Devon Coastal Marathon last year and year before (the only two times I have done, and will be doing, that run...). I can not remember whether it was the same knee or even if it is the same knee that I twisted when I tried Mountain Boarding (not my most successful sporting endeavour!).

Anyway, generally positive.

(P.S. Must find out how Anthony is doing in his training for London Marathon.)

Mascarpone

Today's search for mascarpone perhaps sums up quite a lot about my personality. Julie asked me to get some mascarpone as an ingredient for meal tonight. I could not find any in M&S yesterday and decided to continue my focused quest in the Cheese Shop in Truro on cycle back from work today.

There was no mascarpone - but I ended up buying some Cornish Yarg and a bottle of wine.

(The Cornish Yarg was very nice)

'Mellow surf'

Persuaded by Si's text that surf would be 'mellow' today I went across to Newquay this morning with (some) conviction that I would try and improve. Looking down from road to Tolcarne beach surf did not look that big so I felt good.

After changing into wetsuits and walking towards the waters edge we saw one of the three surfers in at Tolcarne ride across a wave and I thought 'either that person is very small of the waves are bigger than they look'. Suffice to say the person was of average height and the wave was bigger than him (ok, 6-8ft face is not 'big' for a 'big wave surfer' or even a competent surfer but I am neither of the aforementioned).

Anyway, consoled by Si's comment that 'that was properly just a large set' I did put leash on and enter water.

15 minutes later I had made no significant progress in getting out back but had managed to drift towards rocks at Lusty Glaze edge of Tolcarne -discretion being the better of valour I gave up and let next wave take me back to shore (rocks). Si had come ashore so I gave him the thumbs up to signify I was ok (and indicate that I had meant to drift etc).

Left board on beach and re-entered water (far away from the rocks). Si beat me out back on his board - impressive effort - but I did manage to get out and enjoy swimming in some big clear waves. One managed wave to push me down further than I had dived and Si commented the same - adding that on the downward motion he had looked up and saw an expanse of water between and sky. Exhilarating...