Swiss News

Training for the 2009 MdS - 10

2008-11-24T20:45:00.000+01:00

Well, it's been a long time since I last posted here. In the meantime, a lot has happened - too much, one might say.

First of all, and most importantly in terms of running, I finally did my first full marathon - in Füssen, southern Germany at the end of July, and it went off far better than I expected. Having been plagued with yet another injury (this time, a torn calf muscle), I wasn't able to get in much training at all, but it went off fine. I managed it in a time of 4:02:05, which is not bad for an old codger on his very first marathon.

Back in Chur after Füssen, I felt really strong with no aches or pains whatsoever. Within three days, I was out running again, but then did something stupid - two very strenuous hiking/running days in the mountains above Chur, which caused my left tibia to ache like crazy. I thought nothing of it, and two days later, decided on a 50-km run/hike from Liechtenstein back to Chur. I had hardly achieved 10 km when my leg announced, that it was not going to work anymore, and let out a massive burst of pain. I ended up almost crawling to the road, from where I caught the bus, and train, back to Chur. I finally ended up at my sports doctor, and he confirmed by greatest fear - a tibial stress fracture - this is a thin break in the bone, caused by over-use, and makes sense because a marathon causes micro-trauma to the muscles and bones, even if one feels really good afterwards. A period of recovery is essential - I had totally ignored that and, not only did I not allow recovery, but I did some extreme training, and the result was not surprising.

Since then, I've had to cancel my participation on marathons in Berlin, Lucerne and Locarno, and have been able to do nothing else than bike and swim, plus gym; and later, as the break started to heal, a fair amount of mountain hiking, but no running whatsoever. I did keep myself fit, and feel, at the moment, fitter than I have ever been in my life, but my running per se will certainly have taken a knock back.

Anyway, I have just been to my sports doctor again, and he is convinced, I can finally start running again from today, but only small distances - no more than 5 km at a time, twice a week, slowly increasing. I'm very happy at last, because the last four months have been filled with frustration for me, and there have been times when I have almost given up the whole lot and packed it in.

On 6th December, I'm taking part on my first ultra-marathon - 78 km through the Brecon Beacons in Wales (http://www.beaconsultra.com/ ). Of course, not having been able to train properly, I won't be able to run much - probably just the first few kilometres which are flat and alongside a canal, after which the terrain is pretty hilly. Fortunately, though, I've been doing a lot of hiking lately in the mountains around Chur, and this will aid me greatly in the Beacons. Vicky is going to be doing it with me, and we'll keep together all the way. The event is a double route - i.e. twice around, and we'll see how things go by the end of the first round. Should we tackle the second loop, we're going to be doing it in the dark, so head torches will be the order of the day. Vicky and a few others from the forum have been out to Brecon in the last month or so, and apparently parts of the route are very stony/rocky - not the best conditions for night events, but still. Back here in Chur, I've been doing some night hiking as well, to get used to it, and really enjoy it, despite the incredibly sense of isolation one feels.

Back to Brecon: I fly over to London 3rd December, and will be away a full week, spending time in London, Hampshire and Wales. It's going to be very exciting, and I can hardly wait for it.

Regarding to 2009 MdS - all is go for it, I'm fully registered and paid-up, and am looking forward to it with immense elation. The hardest part, of course, is going to be training here in Switzerland in winter for an event that will be taking place in the desert at temperatures of up to about 48°C!!!!! Could be fun.

I am frantically organising kit lists, food lists, and so on for both Brecon and the MdS - it's a huge amount of work, although very interesting, I must. Of course, there is a lot of contradictory information "out there", and it's hard to know which to follow. The most important learning will take place on both events themselves. Learning by doing, although a certain amount of prior knowledge is salient. The plan is, that I am going to do the MdS in 2011 again with Vicky, so what we learn in 2009 will stand us in good stead for '11.

Now that I am really back into my training, I shall try and keep this blog current.

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 9

2008-06-01T19:58:00.000+02:00

It's a hot Sunday evening, and I'm out on the verandah, after a weekend of much death, but some great training for my beloved MdS. The unofficial temperature today in Chur reached around 35°C (the official weather station is down near the Rhein, where it's always much cooler than in the town and surrounds), and the humidity was a sultry 65%; in addition, a southerly wind (the Föhn again) was blowing, albeit very lightly, and the Saharan dust, which has been hanging over Europe for the last week, returned to turn the sky murky and desert-like. Yesterday, however, was a humid, muggy sort of day, with intermittent showers and light storms, and I was really nervous about precipitation hitting our town towards evening. As fortune would have it, we were spared any rain after 3:30 p.m., which gave the ground time to dry and prepare itself for the thunder of runners' feet through the Altstadt of our pretty little town.

I registered several weeks ago for the annual Churer Lauf-Parade, which took place yesterday for the ninth time since its inception. It's run through the oldtown (Altstadt) of Chur, along the little lanes, curving perilously, paved at times with cobble stones, and filled with character and history. It's an unusal race - really a fun thing, more than anything else. There are several categories of events, including kids alone, families, partners, teams, clubs and, for the first time this year, individual runners. The whole event started at 17:30 hours - the kids' races. The race for individual runners and families, started simultaneously at 18:45 hours. The event is 4,6 km long, and involves seven loops, each of 660 metres. Living in the Altstadt, I know the route like the back of my hand, but had never actually run it before. It's basically quite flat, but there is one stretch up the so-called Reichsgasse, which, after a while, becomes damn steep!!!!!

After quite a hectic day, domestic- and business-wise, I set off around 17:30 hours on a 4-km warm-up run along the river in front of our house, called the Plessur. It's a comfortable run, with no surprises, and I have run it a thousand times (or less), sometimes even after a few beers. It generated a good sweat in me, and I felt ready for my big event when I returned home. Our good friends, Rolf and Brigitte, came over the Arcas square (on which we both live) around six o'clock, and we wandered down to the starting area on the square known as Kornplatz. There were thousands (maybe hundreds - Chur is too small for thousands!!!) of people around. The kids' races were just finishing, and there was an atmosphere of jubilation and juvenlie excitement in the air. I've never run such a short race before, and wasn't sure how to prepare for it. Nonethelss, after collecting my complimentary T-shirt and bicycle light (!!!), furnished with my number bib (No. 501), I stood around the start area with Kurt, Rolf and Brigitte, and became progressively nervous as I saw the calibre of some of the individual runners, as well as the teams. Most of the runners had registered for relay races, which meant, they would be running only 2 of the 660-metre loops, and not consecutively. My kind were to do the whole route, non-stop, no wine en route, and as fast as possible.

Shortly before the warm-up spectacle began, I received a lovely surprise: our best friends, Rita and Mohammad, turned up to support me. I had had no idea they were coming - I had not expected them at all, because they're not really into this sort of thing. But, there they were, as large as life. It was a great morale boost. Obviously, living here, I saw a number of other people, whom I know, and there was a carnival atmosphere about the whole thing.

At 18:30 hours, the aerobic exercises started, for those who wanted to try out this exercise in bodily co-ordination. I think, it's an age thing, because I cannot stand in front of a woman, perched on a stage, and copy her aerobic exercise movements, but emulate her movements, getting the left-or right-hand-side correct. My brain just won't swap the sides before me around. And co-ordinate hands above the head, and legs flying out at the side at the same time - forget it - I am incapable. Several kids were viciously kicked in the process, and the legal implications are going to ruin me. Fortunately, other good friends of ours were with me (running as a family team), and the father (Elmar) was having the same co-ordination difficulties!!!!!

Finally, at 18:43 hours, we all stood at the starting arch, and the countdown began. This was going to be fun, as the families, often with very young kids, were taking off at the same time as the adult individual runners. Death, en route, was an inevitability. For some strange reason, I found myself at the back of the pack, which caused me a lot of stress when I began the forward movement. I had set my heart on 25 minutes for the race, hoped for 20 minutes, and decided to surprise myself. Once the starter's gun shot a thousand swallows out of the sky, and I had managed to hurdle 45 000 youngsters, I achieved a pace which I knew, I would never be able to maintain for a full marathon - I was averaging about 3:30 minutes per kilometre (in fact, according to my Garmin 305, I had a maximum pace during the first 600 metres, of 3:10 minutes per kilometre). At my advanced age, there is no way, I'd be able to sustain this pace for an entire marathon, but I knew it was a short distance, and tried to stay as fast as I could.

The corners, at that pace, were criminal, and there was many a terrifying moment, when I felt sure, my face would end up engraved with road patterns. Fortunately, this never came to pass, and I had an accident-free race. I recognised many people en route, whom I knew, and there were often loud cheers of "Hopp, Craig" (a Swiss cheer - basically meaning - Go, Craig). This gave me a lot of encouragement, as I sped along the lanes and mini-lanes of our historic town. Arriving, for the first time, back at the start on the Kornplatz, my fan club (Kurt, Rita, Mohammad, Brigitte and Rolf) cheered me on vociferously. I had chosen not to use my iPod for this race, and it was fun actually hearing, what people were shouting.

At the end of loop one, most runners exchanged batons with the next runners, but we individuals rushed on, undeterred by the mass of trampled bodies. And, so it went on, seven times, with each time the Reichsgasse becoming steeper and steeper, finally feeling like a climb up Mittenberg!!!! The support along the entire route (times seven) was fantastic, and it was as if the whole of the town was out, cheering us runners on. I experienced a lot of high-fives with kids (and adults), to the extent, that I had to stop, due to bleeding hands (almost!!!!). There was even a band on the square next to the cathedral, playing carnival music (in Swiss-German: Guggamusik) - a great boost to the morale. I must admit, I couldn't keep up the 3:30 minutes per kilometre pace, but my average pace was 4:05, which is still one of the fastest I have achieved. I knew it was only 4,6 km, so the psychological pressure of a marathon was not evident, and I could (as is said in Swiss-German) give gas!!!!

It was such a fun, fantastic, familial, festive race, and I wanted it to go on forever. Finally, I ran down the Herrengasse (literally translated: Gentleman Lane) to the Kornplatz for the final time. There was a young guy (about 20 years of age) in front of me, going hell for leather. My only thought was: I'm going to beat you, you young brat!!!! Casting caution, calf injuries, age, coronary risks and catatonia to the winds, I gave gas, and sped down the last 100-metre stretch to the Ziel (Finish). I overtook the whippersnapper, going at a pace, according to my Garmin 305, of some 2:50 minutes per kilometre - pretty fast for an old codger, but it felt so damned good, overtaking a 20-year-old with calf muscles the size of my thighs!!!!!! I really sprinted the last 100 metres.

Finally, the Finish, but chaos. There was a queue, and it took a good minute for my barcode to be scanned. My trusty Garmin 305, however, gave me a time of 18:05 (18 minutes and five seconds). I was ecstatic, and filled with self-pride (who says pride is a sin?????). Grabbing a drink (no, not wine, but a local Swiss drink called Rivella) and half a pineapple (it could have been, I was that hungry, but was, more than likely, a banana), and found my fan club. There were lots of congratulations and bowing before me, but no hugs and kisses - probably due to the fact, that I was sweating profusely!!!!!

It had been a wonderful (and short) race, and my current calf injury remained dormant for the entire race. I was dying to know my placing, but had to wait before it was published. It was celebration time, and we set off back to the Arcas square to the restaurant Los Tioz (formerly Lett, for those of you who know it). That half-litre beer I had didn't touch sides. Gosh, it felt great. Towards 8 o'clock, we made out way back to Kornplatz for the prize-giving, and it was then, that I discovered, that I had come fourth in the Individual Runners category, two minutes behind the guy who came first, and first in my age group. What jubilation. Rita and Mohammad had to leave then, but we went to another restaurant with Rolf and Brigitte, and had a lovely celebration dinner and drinks.

It had been a great race, lots of fun, especially being on one's own doorstep, in one's own town. Support was fantastic, and I already look forward to next year's event.

Today even started off a hot day, and, as mentioned, by 3 p.m., it was 35°C. I set off on a longish run, shortly after 1 o'clock, heading along the Rhein towards the town of Untervaz, where I did a u-turn, and headed back to Chur along the Rhein, but then continued to the military area, called Rossboden. Regrettably, my calf muscle injury kicked in at this point. It hurt like buggery hell, and I decided, instead of running further, as I had planned (wanted to do a 30-km run), it would be more sensible (like HM's shoes), to turn and head home - another four kilometres. I ended up having to walk the last three kilometres, but you can bet your last penny, I ran the final 200 metres onto the Arcas square, which was filled with people in the outside restaurants!!!!! I mean, my reputation was at stake!!!!!!!

And thus, endeth a lovely weekend. I have iced my calf, drunk copious amounts of wine (for medical reasons), and am now about to watch a few episodes from one of my favourite British TV series, My Family on DVD. Tomorrow is going to be a hell of a day in the business - yet again. We already have two bodies, have fired one of our employees, and have to integrate the new one.

A final comment: I love running!!!!

Too much going on in my life.....a few thoughts....

2008-05-18T12:53:00.000+02:00

It's a very damp, cold Sunday. My calf muscle tear is healing nicely, because I have stopped running for a while, but I now have an excrutiatingly sore left knee, and, based upon my self-diagnosis, I believe it's so-called Runner's Knee. I cannot walk down stairs without a great deal of pain and discomfort. Not too sure what to do about it, but will probably make an appointment with my sports doctor so he can examine it. It's all a little too much at the moment, because I have the Churerlauf in two weeks' time (this is just a short, 4,9-km race through the Altstadt (old town) of Chur), and have decided to do the Half Marathon Plus (i.e. 25 km) in Liechtenstein on 14th June. In other words, all this nonsense has to clear up post haste, so I can get down to some serious training again.

There is a little too much going on in my life at the moment, and I feel somewhat overwhelmed. When I run, it helps me cope with all this pressure, but when I am incapacitated, I feel submerged in a sea of stress and confusion. Putting it metaphorically, the motorways of my life are congested right now, and I need to find an off-ramp, so I can escape to the peace and tranquility of a quiet country road.

In between bodies and other matters, this weekend, I have taken to tidying and re-organising my library in my study at home in Chur. It's a daunting task, but I am almost complete now. I am sure, I have more books than a small regional library. Being somewhat chaotic of mind, I tend to let my study (which represents me, my kingdom and my being) manifest the way I am. It's always spotlessly clean, but chaotic in organisation (or disorganisation) - try to find a Latin dictionary here, and you will have to look, more than likely, in the books on meteorology or esoterics. Anyway, I set about trying to bring some order into my chaos, and now feel satisfied, that if I want my Latin dictionary, it's amongst the books on physiology - simple!!!!!

I then sat on the couch here, drinking a fine South African red, looking around at my books, and decided to jot down, that which represents my life in my books. The list is somewhat considerable, but I shall publicise it here in categories, with no level of priority:

marathon/ultramarathon-running; fitness; meteorology; vulcanology; deserts; earthquakes; other earth sciences; medicine, anatomy, and physiology; Africa/South Africa - history, politics, geography; travel; running and ultrarunning; bodybuilding; nutrition and metabolism; La Légion Étrangère (the French Foreign Legion); Naziism and the Occult; the former South African Defence Force (SADF) and its operations; Charles Schultz's Charlie Brown and Peanuts; the English language, grammar and literature (in particular: D.H. Lawrence, William Shakespeare, J.R.R. Tolkien, Joseph Conrad, etc.); languages: German, French, Italian and Arabic; esoterics (this covers a multitude of topics, some of which are best left unmentioned because they are rather controversial in nature); Scotland (home of my ancestors); the cartoons of Giles; anything to do with Monty Python/John Cleese; Spike Milligan and the Goon Show; Switzerland and Liechtenstein; psychology (especially physiological psychology); the United States Marine Corps; philosophy; horror movies; the psychology of war; viniculture. Whew, quite a list, but that's me. I also enjoy reading novels, particular those of Robin Cook, John Grishman, Dean Koontz, Tom Sharp, Roald Dahl and Dan Brown.

I joined the Rosicrucian movement in the UK a few years ago, but found, that it was incredibly expensive, and questioned, whether or not the organisation was more interested in making money, than expounding its philosophies (which I do find terribly interesting); I also, in a fervour of philosophy and searching for the meaning of life, joined the Order of the Jarls of Baelder, but this, too, came to nothing, as I am too far away from the headquarters in the UK.

Whilst in my enthusiasm for organising my study, I also categorised my magazines, all of which I receive, as subscriptions, by mail. Here again, whew, what a list - however, I have decided to rationalise, and not renew several of the annual subscriptions, not because I don't like them, but rather due to the fact, that I don't have the time to read them all; the ones I am keeping include UltraRunner, UK Runner's World, Country Life (South Africa), Képi Blanc (French Foreign Legion magazine, in French), GO (South Africa), Travel Africa.

Looking at the above, I see an incredible sense of categorisation in it all. My life is anything but that - it's the epitome of chaos. I am not an organised, disciplined person, but I do make, on frequent occasions, an effort to become organised - it lasts a while, but then the chaos sets in again. I must say, I like the chaotic side to my life, and am not averse to it at all. I just find, that it places me in conflict with so many others, and this is a cause for concern.

And, outside, the rain is coming down in torrents. What is all this, then, that is going on in my life? Well, there's the business itself (a major source of stress); the renovations in our other house in Carona; the renovations in Kurt's late parents' apartment above us here in Chur; the forthcoming renovations in our apartment when we integrate the apartment next to ours into one large dwelling; our staffing concerns in the business; relationships in general; the injuries I seem to have on a constant basis; not having nearly enough time in life to do the things I want to do; a never-ending HATE of taxes and the tax department; ageing (I accept my age, but fight against it nonetheless); fear of dying (I may be an undertaker, but death is something that comes ever nearer, and I have no time for it within the next 279 years); concern about my family in South Africa; finances (I guess, a universal worry); why summer in Switzerland is so short. Believe it, or not, these are the things which can keep me awake for hours at night (and do) - I am a born worrier. I'm 51 going on 97, and will worry, 'til the day I die, which, given the above, may only be in the year 2287.

Well, it's time to stop. That book, which so many people have suggested/implored/threatened that I write? - believe me, it will come, one day. Not only, do I need the money, but it's one of the things, I think about consistently.

Aftermath of the cancelled race....

2008-05-15T08:08:00.000+02:00

Thanks to the calf muscle tear in my right leg, I had to cancel my much-looked-forward-to Grand Prix de Berne 16-km race in the capital city on Saturday last. I'd really needed to get away from death and the business, and couldn't wait for the race, when this unfortunate muscle injury occurred. On Saturday, I tried not to think about what was going on in Berne, but it wasn't easy.

However, I did decide to do the sensible thing, and take a break from running for a while, so that the injury could heal itself. I have no more race dates set until the Berlin Marathon on 28th September, but need to go through the list of upcoming races, and see where I could take part. Whilst the MdS is my ultimate middle-future goal, I need a few other near-future goals, because I really enjoy racing.

On Monday last - a holiday here in Switzerland - I went for a bike ride with Kurt. We did around 40 km, taking it easy, and stopping off for a beer in Felsberg. I'd hope to go further and a tad faster, but held in the reins, and enjoyed it. Cycling has no effect on my injured calf muscle.

On Tuesday, due to various factors, I was in a deep low, and decided, I needed to get away for a day, be on my own, and go for a long bike ride. On Wednesday, I would take a break from undertaking (my first in seven weeks, which is far too long), and head off for the day on my mountain bike (see photo above). The weather had been perfect for over a week, and Wednesday was to be no different.

Consequently, on Wednesday morning, I rose at the usual time, readied myself for a day's riding, and set off around 9 o'0clock. My plan, was to ride to Liechtenstein, through this little principality, and across the border to Austria, possibly even heading further north to southern Germany. On Tuesday evening, I had used GoogleEarth to map it all out, and it seemed possible.

I set off from Chur, heading down towards the Rhein at Haldenstein, and followed the usual cycle/hiking track through Zizers, Landquart, Bad Ragaz and then north of Sargans to where the Rhein turns from its northwestwards flow to head basically due north, creating the natural boundary between Switzerland and Liechtenstein. It was quite cool when I set off, but I had on my Nike running jacket, which kept me quite warm. By Zizers, though, I was already hot, and removed the jacket.

From my running, I have been learning how to nourish myself on longer runs, and decided, this applies to cycling as well. I had along with me two Gatorades, and a PowerBar, plus water, all of which I started ingesting at regular intervals, in addition to which I also bought myself a large tuna roll and a huge banana on the way. For a change, I found, that the home route, when I returned to Chur, was not nearly as physically stressful as it usual is after a long ride (and my ride on Wednesday was very long - for me), and I put it down to proper nourishment.

Back to the outbound journey - following the Rhein on its northward track, I crossed the hiking and cycling bridge over the mighty river to Balzers in Liechtenstein, and then rode on the sealed route along the levee, which canalises the Rhein all the way to the Bodensee (Lake Constance). There were quite a few cyclists around, and it was interesting to see the various kinds of people enjoying the Rhein - entire families out for a ride, elderly folk getting in some exercise, top-fit guys and girls thundering along on their racing bikes, people like me just out for the day and cross-training for the MdS!!!!, and so on. Quite a few ladies' groups also seemed to have chosen yesterday for a cycle - that's all very nice, but I wish they would realise, that they can't ride ten abreast and block the entire cycle route.

The weather forecast for the Rhein valley had been for northerly winds, which meant, I would have had a headwind in the morning, and a tailwind for the return journey when I was tired. Chance is a fine thing, and I ended up with the exact reverse!!!!! Anyway, on I rode, the Rhein to my left, and beautiful Liechtenstein to my right, passing by the towns of Balzers, then Triesen, followed by the principality's capital of Vaduz. Prominent on the mountain side above the town, is the castle of the royal family of this mini-country (photos can be seen on my flickr.com site). Once I had reached Vaduz, I decided to follow what is known as the Leichtensteiner Rheintalroute for cyclists (the cycling route for the Valley of the Rhine on the Liechtenstein side). It steers clear of the towns (mostly) and meanders through beautiful agricultural and forested areas. Vaduz is 40 km from Chur, so off I set on the meander, heading northwards. It really was very tranquil and enjoyable, and I stopped often to take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Before I knew it, I was in the north of Liechtenstein, and had arrived at the Austrian border - nothing, other than a post which proclaimed entrance to the Republik Österreich. For motorists, there are still customs and passport control posts wherever roads cross the border from Switzerland into the European Union. The foreign affairs and defence of Liechtenstein are controlled by Switzerland, so between Liechtenstein and Austria, there are border controls as well. However, for cycling and hiking, there are no controls at all, which is very sporting of the EU. Switzerland has joined the Schengen Agreement, and all borders between us and the EU are due to come down some time soon. The original date was 1st November this year, but there seems to be a political delay, and who knows when this will happen.

Anyway, across into the EU I rode, my heart still set on Germany, until I saw large thunderstorm clouds over the north, and decided against it. There were also storms evident over the Swiss canton of St. Gallen to my left, and I was pretty nervous, that they would flow over the mountain barrier of Alpstein, and hit the Rhein valley - fortunately, this did not happen. Having decided not to ride to Germany (which would have been another hour or so to the north), I concentrated on the western Austria area in which I found myself, and decided to head west to the point where Switzerland, Austria and Liechtenstein share a common border. In front of me, though, was a mini-mountain ridge, which could either be crossed, or circumnavigated. I chose the former route, which, on the map of the area I found at a bus stop, described itself as a hiking track. It looked more like a mountain road which headed up through the forests, so, engaging a lower gear, I set off upwards and upwards and upwards. It was absolutely beautiful, albeit tiring, but I liked the solitude and peace of this dense forest through which I was riding. I finally came to a fork, the upper way changing to a small footpath, quite unsuitable for a bicycle, and the lower route heading back down the ridge past a castle and church (which suddenly appeared in the middle of the forest). I had no choice, and took the right fork, only to find, that I was heading rapidly downhill to near the point at which I had started the ascent - the circumnavgiation would have been right after all. Back down in the valley, I came to the main road around the ridge, and was in some heavy motorised traffic for a while until I finally came to another wide agricultural area, the road across which lead to the little village of Bangs - there are some very strange names of towns and villages in Austria!!!

It was getting quite hot by then, and I had to apply suntan lotion to my exposed arms for fear of them burning to a crisp - the joys of a European "tan"!!!!! From Bangs, I found the narrow cycle track which heads back south, and this marked the northernmost point of my journey. From then on, it was back towards Chur. As I crossed the unmanned border into Liechtenstein, I came across what must be an historic border sign, describing Austria as the Empire of Austria!!!! It was quite ornate, and brought back tales of the empire from history lessons in school!!!!!

Back in the mini-principality, I turned back towards the Rhein to the point where the three countries meet, and had a break while I took some photos, and checked all my instruments. As the crow flies, the north-south extent of Liechtenstein is about 25 km. I was then in the extreme north, about to head to the extreme south, although it was a lot further than the flight of the crow!!!! I decided to follow the Rhein this time, and cycle the whole way along the sealed levee. It did become a little boring after a while, although the mountain scenery all around is spectacular without a doubt. The headwind - fortunately not strong - was a trfile annoying, but did not dampen my spirits.

On and on I cycled, until finally I reached the cycle/hiking bridge across the Rhein near Balzers, back over to the Swiss side. The route back to Chur was pretty much the same as my outward route, the only difference being, the thunderstorm clouds which were building up over the peaks, and threatening to release their precipitational and electrical loads upon poor old me. However, I was lucky, in that I got back to Chur without any problem, and headed straight for Café Arcas on the square of that name in the Altstadt, on which our house is located. I ordered the largest, coldest beer they had, and enjoyed every mouthful.

I'd had a really great day of cycling, and had seen so much of the countryside. I know Liechtenstein well, but it's different by bike than by car, and I will do his trip again. I'd covered 130 km, and felt in excellent condition as I drank my beer. My calorific expenditure that day had been 4280 kcals, so I could afford to quaff a brew or two.

A hot spa bath a short while later, did the world of good, and I felt well-exercised and happy once I emerged. Even today, I have no sore muscles, aches or pains, and even my rear is not at all sore after a long time in the saddle. It had been an extraodrinarily beautiful day. Did I sleep well last night? Hmm, not too badly, but not right through - I had a few hours of wakefulness in the wee hours, again.

In retrospect, it was just as well, that I did not go to Germany, because it would have meant me arriving back in Chur about two or three hours later, exactly when a storm hit our town!!!!

I enjoy biking very much indeed, and would like to do more; however, running is my priority, and I'll do biking (in terms of long rides like this one) when I feel like a break from running, or have an injury which makes running impossible. Actually, part of the route on which I cycled back comprises the 50-km solo run, with rucksack, I have planned for summer. I must say, though, it's a lot quicker by bike!!!!!

Today is another beautiful day, weatherwise, but I'm back with the bodies. From tomorrow, however, there is awful weather expected, with a return to lower temperatures and lots of rain.

Injury - yet again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-09T20:02:00.000+02:00

Well, the calf problem from yesterday turned out to be a muscle tear, and I have had to cancel my participation on the race in Berne. Right now, I don't want to talk about it, I am that gutted.

More, once I am in a better frame of mind.

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 8

2008-05-09T09:13:00.000+02:00

Thursday's run was a recovery run, which I really did try to run at a slow pace. However, this is not something I am very good at - slow running - and explains the injuries I have had to date. Nevertheless, I did manage to stick to a pace of 5:24, and covered 8 km.

At one stage, though, I changed my mind suddenly about my route, and did a dramatic change of direction, causing my right leg to twist grossly. I felt an immediate pain in the lower part of my right calf muscle, which followed me all the way home. It was quite painful in the evening, and I iced it twice, which did seem to help. I also took an Ecofénac before bed, just in case. There is only a slight hint of discomfort this morning, but I'm having a rest day today, anyway, so hope the little injury will be better by tomorrow's race in Berne. (For the race website (in German), see: http://www.gpbern.ch/cms/aktuelles.phtml).

I'm very much looking forward to the Grand Prix de Berne. Apparently, it's a very festive time in the capital city, and the atmosphere is phenomenal. The weather forecast is for perfect spring weather, with a maximum temperature of 25°C, and only partly cloudy skies. I'm going down alone by train, expecting to arrive around midday, so I'll have time to fetch my number bib, and view the exhibition, before my part of the race starts at 16:24 hours. My number is 16089. I see, from the starting list, that there are some big names from the running fraternity taking part - obviously many Kenyans, Ethiopians and Eritreans, but also our Swiss champion, and winner of this year's Tokyo Marathon, Viktor Röthlin, will be racing too. Great excitement. I'm going to stay the night in Berne in a small hotel, so at least I don't have to come charging home to Chur by train, and can do that on Sunday morning in a leisurely fashion. Really excited about Saturday.

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 7

2008-05-07T21:10:00.001+02:00

This evening's run was wonderful, but also worrying - wonderfully worrying, perhaps - or worryingly wonderful? Whatever. Where was I?

I set off, with the intention of doing 18 km, and ended up doing just under 20 km, deliberately extending the run so I could go further than the 18 km envisaged. I hate restrictions, barriers, definite aims/goals, control (also self-control, but not rectal control). If the intention is 18 km, then I'll do 17 or 19, but not 18.

I try to vary my runs (not diarrhoea, silly reader) as much as possible, but find, that I am slowly having to start repeating at least parts of some. There just aren't enough trails and roads to satisfy my needs. I'll have to have a word with the planning department - the Ministry of Running Trails.

As I am wont to do, I headed off down to the Rhein, through the heart of the military area, where shooting practice was taking place - I wasn't in my disgustingly erotic shorts, so was in no danger of being used as RPG practice. Clarissa and Victor (camel spider and vulture, respectively) were at my heel and overhead (respectively) - the rest of the flange and ponce (respectively) were out boozing. I headed up towards Domat/Ems, running behind the solar panels which line the Autobahn for several kilometres, past the small town, across the bridge of the dam on the Rhein, and then hit the headwind as I returned to Chur on the other side of said river.

It was a good run, thus far, and I felt happy, and did not feel any strain after yesterday's 12-km jaunt. My hayfever is a trifle annoying, at the moment, and I sprayed my thinly-membraned nasal orifices with my hated cortisone spray before I left home (bit like American Express, I guess - never leave home without it). Anyway, shortly after entering the forest between the dam and the village of Felsberg, I felt the need to blow my nose, but had fortgotten to load myself up with tissues. Consequently, it was the nasal ejaculation method into the bushes. I hate doing this, but it was necessary. Regrettably, a gust of wind hit me as I did this, and a blast of the stuff arced back and went over my running vest. Bloody hell (and I say that deliberately) - it was pure blood. It's not the first time I have lost blood because of the spray, but it's the first time I had to run home with blood all over my white vest!!!!! The movie Black Sheep has nothing on the way I looked. Of course, every man and his dog was out cycling this evening, and I did get some very strange looks.

Back in Chur, I had the choice of a short route home (as I had planned with GoogleEarth, and which would have been 18,2 km), or another route, which would give me a few more metres, but included a nasty hillock. Being the pillock I am, I chose the latter route, and dripped a trail of nasal plasma all the way to the top, but was happy I had done it.

It was a satisfying run, and, since Sunday, I have run 64 km, so feel pretty happy with myself - but not complacement by any means. I have a short 8-km run tomorrow, then I'll have a break on Friday, prior to my Grand Prix de Bern 16-km race in the nation's capital, Berne (with an "e" at the end, in English!!), on Saturday afternoon.

One thing I noticed today is, that I must try something other than diluted Gatorade as a drink en route. When I am not running, I have no trouble digesting it, but when I run, it makes me feel somewhat queasy at times. I need to find a substitute.

And, it's soon time for new Nike running shoes!!! Mine really are too small. The blisters on my toe ends have blisters, I think my toes are rotting off, and one of my toenails is dark blue and looks set to release itself from its digital captivity.

Just for the records, the results for today's run (not marathon-winning, but not bad for me, even if I say so yourself):

Distance: 19,78 km
Average pace: 5:05 (including vicious hillock, and a few others nasties)
Time: 1:40:31

I do wish, that every route I take, did not end with the inevitable uphill back home!!! It's not intense, but after 20 km, it's noticeable!!! And so to bed, to dream of camel spiders, sand and Patrick Bauer (we're entering nightmare territory, here).

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 6

2008-05-07T14:57:00.000+02:00

On Tuesday, I set out on a 12-km run which would involve some speed or tempo training. I have started using a marathon training plan from one of my running books (namely by Pete Pfitzinger), designed for someone who expects to run around 90 km a week, and training for a mara over 18 weeks. I have 22 weeks 'til the Berlin Marathon at the end of September, and shall use this programme, adjusted a tad to help me benefit from it as well for the MdS next March.

While on the subject of Berlin (which, in all probability, will be my first full marathon), I thought I'd jot down here, what my predictions are for my results on this race. I am aiming for 4h00, would like 3h30, but hope for 3h50. I wonder if this makes sense?

Anyway, yesterday, I set off on my 12-km run after a heavy day of death and being alone in the business, complete with overseeing the start of a facelift of our veranda, and renovations to the apartment above us. I was feeling a little tense, especially after having not slept well again the night before.

My route was from Chur down to Haldenstein, along the Rhein to Rossboden and the military area, and then back via Oberalpstrasse. As it turned out, it was a 12,07-km route, which was fine, and I did it in 1:01:30, average pace of 5:05. The speed part comprised 10 x 100-metre sprints, which actually were not as fast as they should have been, and took place along the Rhein. If I'd read the programme properly, I would have learnt, that a good rest in between speeding is vital - i.e. a good rest while still running. I sprinted 100 metres, ran for 200 metres, and then repeated this another nine times. My maximum speed was 2:43 or 22 kph. All-in-all, not too bad, but I'd like to get this sorted out and done properly. My homeward run, which is always uphill, and this time with a headwind, was rather slow, at an average of around 5:20, which caused me to become very irritated with myself, and caused an even further slowing-down. Ah, well, these things are sent to teach us.

This evening (Wednesday), I have medium-long run which means 18 km - down to the Rhein (what else?), along to Felsberg and further to cross the bridge at the dam on the Rhein, up to Domat/Ems, and then back to Chur - or the reverse (I'll decide, when I start). Pace will be about 5:05. There is a north wind blowing again, so I'll have a headwind on the way home - damn!!!

As I have said to a few mates on the MdS forum, this programme is somewhat structured, but I will try not to let it rule me, but rather I'll be flexible and use it, together with any variations, to my advantage. I feel happier, though, that I have something that may bring some discipline into my running - goodness knows, I need it because I do have a rather chaotic mind. When I was very involved with bodybuilding, I did experience a lot of self-discipline. Somehow with running, though, this hasn't been the case - probably due to the injuries, botching everything up for three months.

Well, that's the theory - now to put it all into practice!!!!!

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 5

2008-05-07T01:30:00.000+02:00

On Sunday (4th May), we had, what can only be termed as, a perfect spring day. After weeks (months) of cold, miserable weather, with the odd warm day thrown in to confuse us mountain dwellers, spring hit us like a ton of bricks, bringing out shorts and t-shirts from storage long forgotten. Pale, translucent skin was finally exposed to Alpine sunshine, and one could sense a meaning to life again, with spring having finally sprung.

After being able to convince the powers-that-be that I really needed to get in a long run, I jumped into my new Nike lycra running shorts, donned the rest of the apparel, attached myself to the electronic gadgets, and set off down the Rhein valley to cover, on swift foot, a course I had mapped out on GoogleEarth the day before, and which should entail a long run of some 32 kilometres. I must just add, at this point, that GoogleEarth really is amazingly accurate, because, by the time I returned from my run, both my Nike/iPod and Garmin 305 gadgets showed a distance of 32,06 kilometres, and I followed exactly the route I had mapped out.

Leaving home in glorious weather, I exitted our house onto the large town square to the full view of the outside restaurant, which was full at the time, and felt a hundred amazed eyes, staring at my thin white legs, wondering what on earth obsesses one to go running in such beautiful weather. The antithesis clearly crossed my mind, as I pondered the sanity of spending all day in a restaurant when one could be out, making a physical investment in one’s future (I’ve just finished Mike Stroud’s book “Survival of the Fittest”, and am convinced, that he is right in what he says – I find it one of the most profound books I have read on human life in general, and, in particular, on the subject of exercise and keeping fit). I can honestly say, that I have always vowed, I would never end up a fat, lazy old man who needs someone to care for him. Unless I am stricken by some unfortunate ailment, I plan to do all I can to keep myself fit and able into my latter years, and I feel, I am going the right way about it – perhaps a drop or two less of wine might also aid in this goal, but otherwise I feel, I’m on the right track.

So, off I set, signals being received from above and below, and was soon on a steady, albeit too fast, pace, through town, down to the Rhein, and along the very good trail heading north to the town of Landquart, which was to be my turning point. I’ve cycled this trail more times than I can count, and it’s a nice quick ride, with a few nasty inclines to boot, and to keep one on one’s toes. Running it is a slightly different matter, and it was to be the first time, that I had done so – at least, as far as Landquart. I can’t access my running data online at the moment, because my Internet provider is doing maintenance, so I have to use my own memory, but I think my average pace for the first 15 km, was 4:35 per km (i.e. 4 minutes and 35 seconds needed for each kilometre). I really felt strong and energetic, even though I knew it was to be a long run, and I should have taken it easier at the start. Anyway, it wasn’t a race, and I could learn from it.

Landquart reared its head soon enough, and I found myself at the drinking fountain of the town’s railway station, availing myself of the clear, cold mountain water. Here was one of my lessons of the day. I had chosen not to run with my rucksack that day, but, instead, wore my 0,8-litre CamelBak, as I did on the Bündner-Frühlingslauf a week before. I had filled it with a diluted solution of Gatorade. At the drinking fountain, where I had a long aquatic halt, I wondered if I should refill the pouch, but decided I’d have plenty for the return run, which was another 17 km (a slightly different and longer route than the outward journey). The lesson: never forego the opportunity to replenish water resources on a long run. What a fool, because at km 18, I ran out of liquid, and was dying of thirst!!!!! There are usually so many drinking fountains around (most of them made out of granite, and often very ornate), that one almost trips over them, but, the time I needed one, there wasn’t a single fountain in sight, and I got home, literally gasping for water.

From Landquart, I headed away from the Rhein, and towards the mountains before crossing a large plain on which grow the solid form of my favourite drink – grapes, of course!!! As I progressed across the vineyards, I implored the fruit to grow faster, bearing in mind, their final bottled form, which would make me very happy. As I approached the town of Igis, the trail started ascending, and I was soon panting in the warm afternoon sun, my pace markedly reduced, but still constant.

On through this quaint little town, some of the older folk waving to me, a few kids riding their bikes alongside me, I made my way, along the undulating trail, and then road, to the town of Zizers, where the late, and last, Empress of the former Austrian Empire used to live before her death in the early 1990s – I ran past her castle, which is now used as a home for the aged, and a refuge for exhausted tax collectors and other such scoundrels. A few more nasty undulations, and down it was again, over the bridge across the Autobahn, and back to the trail along the Rhein.

It’s a long, slow incline back to Chur, but beautiful through the forests, next to the rapidly-flowing mighty Rhine River. Many people were out on their bicycles (lazy sods – they should have been running), enjoying the spring weather. By the time I arrived in the village of Haldenstein, just outside of Chur, I had well and truly run out of Gatorade, and I was very thirsty indeed. I could have run across the bridge into the actual village, but I reckoned, I had only another four kilometres to go, so I might as well head on home.

From Haldenstein, it is a significant rise to the Altstadt (“old town”) of Chur where our house stands, and I was becoming more and more fatigued without something to drink. I had taken a power gel in Landquart with the water I drank there, but I needed sustenance by the time I ran through Chur itself. Finally onto the Arcas square and there was our house door!!!! What a relief. Before Haldenstein, I had thought of running past Chur a few kilometres along the Rhein, just to add to the total, but I’m glad I didn’t, as I needed energy. I did the 32,06 km in exactly 2h50:00, and felt very happy with myself – another ten kilometres, and I’ll have a full marathon under my belt.

Once inside, and my raging thirst suitably quenched, I lay in a hot spa bath for ages, thinking about my achievement, and what I had learnt from it.

First of all, the water re-filling aspect – vital, and I should actually drink more as I run.
Secondly – lubricate, or cover with plasters, the nipples before a long run. After 32 km, they were sore to the extent, that I could hardly touch them.
Thirdly – get bigger running shoes. My Nikes are excellent, but after a long run, I find, that my toes rub a lot against the front of the shoes, and I ended up with four blisters at the end of my toes. Nothing serious, but still blisters – this meant, of course, that I could practise my blister management skills which I need to learn for the MdS next year. Time to get out my new book: A Boy’s Book of Feet, and study it well.
Fourthly – don’t be a hero, and start out a long run as though it were a walk in the park. Take it easy, so that strength is not all sapped in the first half, especially when the latter half is mostly uphill. The first fifteen kilometres saw me running at an average pace of about 4:35 per km; my overall average was 5:09, so obviously (and the statistics from the Garmin 305 verify this) there was a time of rather slow progress – and I admit to some fairly considerable distances of walking towards the end, although it was fast walking. There is no way I am going to walk on my first marathon in Berlin later this year – it’s run all the way, or die trying!!!!
Fifthly – stop wimping out about the rucksack, and wear it, no matter what. I’m not training for a little marathon thingy around some fancy city; I’m ultimately in training for the MdS – there is a difference.

Once out of the bath, I met Kurt, Rolf and Brigitte in the restaurant on the Arcas square, and became one of those who sits in restaurants on beautiful spring days – however, I felt, I had earned my drink (I had, after all, expended over 2300 kcals) so had no bad conscience – a 500-ml glass of ice cold beer could never taste better, than after a 32-km run!!!!!!

I had no aches or pains after my run, and even today (Tuesday), my legs feel fine. I do miss my mind, but the body is working well. I did have a break yesterday – mainly because I slept so badly on Sunday night (despite the physical exertion of the day), and was wiped out. I’ve set up a training programme for myself, based on some of the stuff Dan (djbleakmann), from the Forum, sent me, my own ideas, and a marathon training programme I acquired from one of my many books on running. It includes weekly long runs, hill (in my case, mountain) work, interval/speed work, and recovery runs, complete with the odd marathon and not-so-odd half maras and other races. This afternoon, for example, I’ll be doing a 12-km run, with 10 x 100 metres speed work thrown in for good measure. On Saturday, I have a 16-km race through the city of Berne (Bern) – our capital city. I’ve set my heart on Berlin at the end of September being my first full marathon, but it wouldn’t surprise me, if I do one before then, too. Time, and my legs, will tell.

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 4

2008-05-02T06:50:00.000+02:00

It's been quite a week since that little race thingy. First of all - and I can't remember if I have mentioned this already - but I have acquired a place on the Berlin Marathon on 28th September. Note to self: lots of weeks in which to train, and get ready to show those Germans a thing or two!!!! Then - Martin and Susan, great friends of ours, from what we (in Switzerland) call the big canton - Germany - called and mentioned a possibility of me taking part with them on an Ironman competition in the vicinity of Nürnberg in mid-July - Susan will swim, Martin's responsibility is the biking, and my little task will be the full marathon!!!!! OK, that's in about 12 weeks. Hmmmm - oh dear, oh dear, oh dear........ I know I'll give a positive answer: this Marine answers in the positive Sir, yes Sir!!!!!!!! Bloody hell, I could have had such a quiet little life with my camel spiders - collecting bodies, reading, doing the ironing and watering the Triffids. But, no, not me - off I go, running and doing silly things in the Sahara and Germany!!!! We won't even mention Libya, Mongolia and South Africa at this stage. I mean: my mothers, in their plurality, even sent me a training programme for the Comrades Marathon in South Africa!!!!!

OK, let's get back to the recent past, and think about post-Bündner-Frühlingslauf......What the buggery hell happened after I crossed the finishing line? Nothing, really. The camel spiders and I shared a bottle of wine; Kurt took over the Bündner Nusstorte I received as a prize; friends, Rolf and Brigitte, arrived late, and I was able to give them huge, wet, sweaty hugs; we popped off to a pub for a swift pint. There were lots of compliments in the pub, 'til I took off my one Nike shoe to inspect a suspected blister, and offered Brigitte my socks as a souvenir, when the smell police arrived, and I was ordered out. I thought my feet had a certain je ne sais quoi.

Once the photos and fingerprints had been taken and dutifully recorded, the handcuffs removed, and the manacles taken off, we went home, and I lay in a hot spa bath for about an hour, while the camel spiders enjoyed the sun out on the veranda. I was tired, but incredibly happy, and that had nothing to do with the glass of SA red next to me.

Later that afternoon, we popped into town for important shopping - smoked salmon, Veuve Clicquot, blister plasters, and Aspirin. A quick visit to my favourite watering hole, Calanda, in the middle of town, was not out of the question, and a glass of local white went down very well indeed. I was still in my element, and almost drove Kurt mad with my tales of every step I took.

Anyway....... that evening, we went out to dinner in one of my favourire restaurants, Va Bene, in the complex in which is situated my wellness centre, to which I go each Wednesday evening for a 1000-metre swim, and a lot of time in the Finnish sauna, steam bath and caldarium, followed by a large glass of the best red, served by Anna, the barmaid of note.

Sunday was a happy day, full of rain and cloud, with thunderstorms to the north of us. The usual thousand litres of coffee over, a ton of müesli and organic orange juice, and the day began. I had no stiffness from my race, and felt energetic and happy - until a 'phone call came through, followed by another - DEATH!!!!! And all this, on a day, when we were supposed to go to the christening of a great-niece of Kurt. Ah, what a shame that I could not make it!!!! All that religious nonsense is worse than toothache, so I happily agreed to do one of the death cases, and to organise for one of our hideous employees to do the other.

My one was up in the ski resort of Arosa - high above Chur, absolutely beautiful. The driving distance is about 25 km, with about 365 curves (literally) in the road, but the views are beyond belief. I took it easy, and drove slowly up to this mountain paradise. I almost forgot the reason why I had gone there. I finally reached the house of bereavement, and did what I had to do. As I was about to leave, with the body in the back of the hearse, the little old lady, whose husband had died, suddenly clutched on to me, and started crying woefully. I put my arm around her, and she held on to me, face on my chest, crying hysterically. I felt so incredibly sorry for her, and put both arms around her shoulders, holding her to me, while she howled out her eyes. I have to admit to several quiet tears myself. Finally, she withdrew, thanked me from her heart, and I walked off to the hearse, my shirt dripping with salty tear-water, and smothered in make-up - why do women wear that stuff????? One does one's best!!!!!!

Back in Chur, Kurt arrived home around midday, after what, he claimed, was a horrid experience (serve him right, for getting involved), and I proclaimed, that I was off up Känzeli - the mountain in front of our house, for MdS training, complete with rucksack (Al Silcock will be happy to hear!!!!). The skies had cleared, the day was warmish (sort of -35°C - almost), and there was no way I was going to miss out on this. I dressed in sensible Bermuda shorts, a Ron Hill vest, my Nike runing shoes, and underwear beyond belief, but best left unmentioned........

With iPod/Nike and Garmin 305 gadgets functioning correctly, not to mention gear from the Karl van den Bergh Bondage Club, I set off..... The route sets off straight up!!! No warming-up, just straight-up. I shall add photos later. I started off running, but was soon reduced to a booze-induced crawl, it was that steep. Finally, I was in the forest, and it became even steeper. I am starting to hate Patrick Bauer!!!! Anyway, I had done this route a number of times, but not avec rucksack filled to capacity with food for the camel spiders!!!! The little buggers had so much fun, running all over the place, and can you imagine what a problem it is, trying to keep track of them?

Up and up we went, enjoying the views down to Chur (see flickr.com/injasuti). Like Mittenberg a week or so before, I/we was/were (those buggery camel spiders!!!) at the top of Känzeli in a time which made the mind boggle - not sure, anymore, of exact times (I'll look them up later, and add them), but it was something like 43 minutes instead of the usual 1:30.

So what? - at the top of Känzeli, but it's not the end of the world. Keep going, buddy. Onwards, and upwards.... MdS. And off I/we went................

Methinks, I should leave the rest 'til tomorrow. I have consumed 12 litres of fine SA red, a bottle of kirsch, 96 beers, and a quart of cream.

Whatever, it's all for the MdS, and buggery Patrtick Bauer. I shall continue. Belief me, the life of Craig Braithwaite and the Camel Spiders is not a quiet one. 'Til the morrow then.......

Cheers, and dune greetings,
Craig and Friends........

P.S. I shall do typing corrections tomorrow.......

A little race thing - Bündner-Frühlingslauf

2008-04-29T05:02:00.000+02:00

On Saturday, 26th April, 2008, the so-called Bündner-Frühlingslauf took place. By way of explanation, Bündner is the adjective pertaining to the canton in which I live, Graubünden (in English, the Grisons); Frühlingslauf in English, means "spring run". This is a race which takes place between the town of Thusis, to the south of Chur, and ends 25 kilometres later in the sports centre of Chur. The route leads through spectacular mountain areas, through forests, along the Rhein (the Rhine River), across beautiful fields with snow-covered mountains soaring above all, not to mention the odd medieval castle or two.

Having not been able to run for nearly three months because of the Iliopsaos Tendon problem, I really had little hope for myself of being able to take part on this race. However, three weeks ago, when I realised, that my injury was actually improving markedly, and I could run again, I decided I would take part, and registered for the race. My training over the last few weeks, whilst not bad in terms of kilometres, was a bit of a worry, as it was somewhat sporadic due to the inclement weather and death duties, so I looked forward to this last Saturday with a certain amount of trepidation. My training runs, however, have been increasing in terms of distance, and I managed a good 26,3-km run about ten days before the race, which proved to me, that I would be capable of completing it, despite the inadequate training. Working out times, paces, etc., I decided on a time for the 25 kilometres of around 2:30:00 (i.e. two and a half hours), and yet hoped for around 2:20-ish.

I've also been enormously motivated by my decision to run, and acceptance on, the Marathon des Sables (MdS) in Morocco in March/April 2009. I had orginally planned to run this 250-km, seven-day, self-sufficiency race through the Moroccan Sahara only in 2010, but, due to various factors (mostly coercion and blackmail from fellow members of the MdS forum on the Internet (if you're interested, see: http://www.themds.co.uk/forums/index.php, and take a look at the pseudonym injasuti for all my alleged lunatic ramblings, to see what I have written there)), I decided I would enter for the 2009 version (probably as well as 2010, on the condition, that I survive 2009!!!).

On the Friday evening before the race, Kurt and I went down to the sport centre in Chur so I could fetch my number bib for the next day, and I was quite surprised to see, that my number was 11 - yes, eleven!!!! It certainly wasn't based upon performance, that's for sure, and I imagine the numbers were assigned randomly, as even the guy who came first (and has done so for nine years in a row), had the number 188. I was surprised to see, that the finishing line (in German: Ziel) was actually inside the ice hockey arena, which is somewhat unusual.

Anyway, that evening, I had been invited out to dinner by my MdS friend, Thomas, from Liechtenstein, here in Chur. His lovely wife, Lissi, came along, too, and we had a most amazing (for me, anyway) evening, with lots of laughs and discussions about the MdS, which Thomas had recently completed for the first time. What a lovely couple they are, and we're going to have them to dinner at our home sometime in the next few weeks. I learnt a huge amount about the race from Thomas, and he's agreed to show me his kit some time, so I can get a better idea of what is required. I must say, especially after having spoken so much to him about it, I can wait even less for March 2009. Of course, this all inspired me even more for the 25-km race the next day. Regretably, though, I had a very bad night's sleep, so was still very tired on the day of the race.

I had my kit and provisions all ready and laid out in the ironing room before I went out to dinner, but checked them all again at least four times, before I finally went to bed on Friday evening. On Saturday morning, an early rise was a must, and I was pacing the floor by 8:30 a.m., waiting for Kurt to get ready to drive me to Thusis. After a week of totally grotty weather, the skies had cleared to a deep blue, and the temperature was a comfortable 15°C, even at that time of the day (it later rose to around 21°C). Before we got to Thusis, though, we had to stop off in neighbouring Domat/Ems to drop off an urn at the cemetary - I must be the only runner who has undertaking work to do before a running race.

Finally we arrived in Thusis, and I was more than a bundle of nerves. I just could not keep still, and I even made the camel spiders nervous. We decided it would be best to go and have a cup of coffee first, but I was like a child sitting in front of a present-surrounded Christmas tree. The little town of Thusis was swarming with runners in various types of running apparel - some disgustingly erotic (like my shorts - although I was wearing the semi-erotic ones!!!!), and others that looked like pyjamas for the elderly. We made our way up to the school area where warming-up was taking place. While Kurt video-ed the surrounds, I took off on a series of short runs, did stretching, and consumed my power gel, before we finally made our way down to the start, which took place on the main road through this provincial townlet. I was quite conservative in my choice of electronic gadgets this time, and only took with me, my Garmin 305 and my iPod. However, I did decide to wear, for the first time, my Camelbak pouch which is worn on the lower back, with a strap around the front, with additional pouches for a camera, power gels, mobile 'phone, wine glass, etc. The main pouch is filled with liquid (mine, with a diluted quantity of Gatorade - it takes 800 ml), and has a tube with a special mouthpiece, from which one can suck liquid whilst en route. It turned out to be very useful, if somewhat unsightly to the eye; although some of the contraptions that people wore, were a sight for sore eyes for sure!!!!

Having not raced since the Zürcher Sylvesterlauf in mid-December, I really was in quite a state by the time the 414 of us were amassed, ready for the pistol. In an effort to contain myself, I started to focus upon what others were wearing and doing, and became quite alarmed, for example, when I saw a woman in front of me with her hair tied up with something, that looked not unlike a viper skin; or the man to my right, whose underwear (why wear underwear under running shorts???) was obviously causing him a certain amount of genitalic distress, and whose hands inside his shorts made him look like a dirty old pervert; not to mention the young lady behind me, who was wearing iPod earphones, and singing out loudly, oblivious to the stares she was attracting. It was a comedy of nervousness, and yet I was very glad and proud to be part of it all. I had one iPod earphone in my ear, stirring myself up with my favourite running song, "Major Tom", by the German singer Peter Schilling; with the other ear, I half-listened to all the announcements being made by the race organiser, warning us of narrow gaps in certain parts of the race, but to which hardly anyone listened. The start buttons on my iPod/Nike and Garmin 305 contraptions were ready for pushing, as soon as the pistol went off, thereby connecting me to signals from a sensor deep in my shoe, and to satellites high overhead, respectively.

Finally, the countdown began, and I felt the traditional welling-up of emotions within me, as I realised, that what has become my greatest passion in life (running, not wine, although.......), was once again coming to fruition.

Fünf, vier, drei, zwei ...... EINS ...... EXPLOSION and we're off...... with Major Tom blaring, now, in both ears!!!!! The start of the 22nd Bündner Frühlingslauf, and, this year, I was part of it!!!!!! One tenth the distance of the MdS, but what a good way to train for my greatest goal in my running life.

And thus, we switch to the present tense, as I am wont to do, when I compose a race report.

Ahead of me, lie 25 kilometres of absolutely beautiful country and mountain scenery. First of all, though, there is a run along the main road of Thusis, and the crowd of 414 sets off at quite a cracking pace, because it's all downhill at the beginning. I am about a third of the way back from the front, and can start within seconds of the pistol shot, although at what could only be described at first as a Sahara Shuffle. As the elite rush off into the distance, the rest of we mortals run on to set our pace, and achieve a sense of stability in our run. I had set an aim for my pace of around 5:05 to 5:10 minutes per kilometre, which is not bad for a post-injury run, if not a tad too fast, perhaps.

The first kilometre split: average pace: 4:42; average speed: 12,7 kph; highest speed: 18,9 kph; average heart rate: 166 beats per minute. All along tar, and downhill, with some vicious turns every so often. The start altitude is some 700 metres above sea level, but it feels like we have dropped 200 metres within the first kilometre - although hardly!!! The finish in Chur is at an altitude of 560 metres, but there are some criminal ascents in between - they are looming in the distance!!!!

The crowd of runners is starting to spread out as the elite and semi-elite charge ahead. At one stage, I look forward in horror, as I see runners far in front of me; however, a quick glance behind me, calms my fears when I realise, that there are an equal number of fellow runners behind me. I know, I keep saying, that I run for the joy of it, but there is most definitely a competitive streak within me, which, despite everything and all that is said, does like to do its best and compete with others.

On we run, and I start pacing myself with a guy of about 30 years old in front of me. He has what I and Major Tom consider to be a comfortable pace, and I keep behind him, glancing, from time to time, at the beautiful pastoral and mounatin scenery around me. It really is spectacular. At one stage, I am forced to jump over a huge splotch of blood right in the middle of what has now become a rural track. Who knows where that came from, or, indeed, if my undertaking expertise will shortly be required.

The next kilometre splits, which reveal, that my planned pace is not working, and perhaps I am going too fast, although it feels good:
Measured at km 2 - 4:56 min/km; 12,1 kph; 14,8 kph; 165 bpm
Km 3 - 4:56 min/km; 12,3 kph; 14,4 kph; 164 bpm
Km 4 - 4:55 min/km; 12,2 kph; 15,8 kph; 164 bpm
Km 5 - 4:55 min/km; 12,2 kph; 16,0 kph; 162 bpm

Km 5 sees the first watering hole, but I have my Camelbak with me, and need no extra fluid at that stage. I smile widely, as I try to non-vocally express my thanks to the helpers. Those people really are wonderful, and I reckon, they receive the least thanks from the runners. My running companion, whom we shall call Mervin, is still slightly ahead of me, but is starting to cough up blood, and I realise, it's just a matter of time, before I overtake him (and probably have to undertake him, too), and seek another pacer.

By this time, we are running steadily through beautiful green fields, then meadows upon which cows are grazing peacefully, waving wheat which, sure smells sweet, as the wind comes right behind the rain, Oklahoma..... methinks, we may be in the wrong musical here!!!!

To my left, the mighty Posterior Rhine (the Rhine, at this stage, is divided into two parts - Posterior and Anterior) carries the snow-melt rapidly northwards to lower areas, flooding Germany, and ultimately flowing into the North Sea at Rotterdam. But I digress....

Km 6 - 4:53 min/km; 12,3 kph; 18,5 kph; 162 bpm

I realise, that my pace is somewhat erratic within each kilometre, as the altitude of the route starts to undulate. I tend to thunder downhill, and then progress sedately up the next undulation. I realise, already, that my current average pace of below 5 min/km is not going to be maintained, so it'll end up a positive split, but what the hell, as it's my first race since four months, and I'll use it as a learning experience.

Km 7 - 5:10 min/km; 11,6 kph; 14,6 kph; 161 bpm - there are some nasty hills in this split, but the numerous kids along the way, high-fiving me like crazy, spur me on. A kindly farmer's wife offers my a glass of home-made red wine which causes a slight increase in pace towards the top of a particularly beastly incline.

Km 8 - 5:08 min/km; 11,8 kph; 15,3 kph; 163 bpm - these hills have to go. I have cycled this area many times, and don't remember them being so steep - beautiful, but not steep. Oh, well, ever onwards and upwards, and may Hillary beat Barack.

Km 9 - 5:50 min/km; 10,2 kph; 14,8 kph; 164 bpm - more vicious ascents, and steep declines, and then up again. For a while, I am completely alone in a deep, green valley. There are trees and cows, and I see a deer pounce off into the woods. I am all alone with Mike Batt singing "Run Like the Wind". This song was suggested to me by my MdS forum mate, Alan Crawford, and Al, for that, I thank you. It's a very inspiring song, and I had it playing at least five times on the Bündner-Frühlingslauf!!!!

Km 10 - 5:18 min/km; 11,4 kph; 17,4 kph; 162 bpm - again, some erratic paces - slow uphill, perhaps too fast downhill, but nice. I keep thinking about advice given to me by various mara runners - constant, steady pace; yet somehow on this race, with the undulations, it's not possible. Another watering hole (oh, for a swift pint!!!) and medication station ("Sorry, we do not give out Xanax!"), and I am soon at a major road intersection where are standing many people, high-fiving, spitting, cheering, releasing the dogs, and generally giving we runners a lot of encouragement. Suddenly, I spot Kurt with the video camera, and up go my arms in a gesture of cheer and happiness. Above the roar of Mary Throat-Boggler singing "Death to Runners" on my iPod, I call out to Kurt: "See you in Chur!". On I run........

Km 11 - 5:02 min/km; 11,9 kph; 14,0 kph; 162 bpm - with Barcaly James Harvest singing "Hymn", it's into the village of Rothenbrunnen, with the streets lined with little men and women from the village, dressed in traditional robes, bearing flamed torches, chanting weird hymns of a nationalistic nature, and spurring us on, as if our lives depended on it - and, in that village, they did!!!! I think, they were actually driving us out of the place!!!!

Shortly after Rothenbrunnen, the route starts to ascend dramatically onto what is know as the Polenweg - from what I understand, a track through the forest, which was constructed by Polish refugees during some little European skirmish, or other, around 1943. As mentioned before, I have cycled this route several times, but on foot, it's a different kettle of proverbial fish. It's up, up, up, up - and more up. Small steps, constant pace. Since Thusis, I have not stopped once to walk, and I am not stopping now. I feel strong, vibrant, erotic (or, at least, semi-erotic thanks to my shorts), and am strong-willed. In 11 months, I shall be running the MdS - this is no time to wimp out.

Km 12 - 5:05 min/km; 11,9 kph; 18,0 kph; 161 bpm - the sudden increase in maxium speed due to a challenge from a new pacing partner who suddenly decides he can run fast uphill; if he can, so can I!!!! The forests are beautiful and thick, as I pass the speedy competitor, and I gasp for breath at one stage, as a deer jumps out in front of me, and disappears into the trees ahead of me. Suddenly, I am aware of an aquatic tart hurling a scimitar at me, proclaiming me king of all the land, and I realise Major Tom is still above in his capsule, and is encouraging me to take a power gel, or I shall be floating weightless, drifting, falling.....

The halfway mark is well signposted - This is the Halfway Mark, says the signpost. Beneath it, someone has written: If you're not yet dead, you soon will be. I love honesty, and thunder past, reaching back for my power gel to give me nourishment for the second half of my race. I love the forests, the strong trees, the occassional small animal, my camel spiders who are my constant companions, and follow at my heels every step of the way. The field of running humanity has really spread out a lot, and I am now quite alone in the forest with my pacing companion, who has overtaken me again, his calves covered in mud as he speeds along the bepuddled route. I am also aware of my legs being bespeckled with mud, but it's a nice, athletic feeling.

Km 13 - 5:05 min/km; 11,6 kph; 16,7 kph; 162 bpm - there's a slight downhill, at the end of which is a beautiful clearing, right in the middle of the forest. Somehow, Mike Batt's "Ride to Agadir" seems somewhat incongruous in this amazingly silvan area. Fortunately, Mike's song ends, and Yazoo come long, singing "Happy People".

And up we go again to Km 14 - 5:43 min/km; 10,6 kph; 14,9 kph; 161 bpm - the steepest part of the race, and it shows!!!!!! There's a lot of mud, and also several doors in the sides of the cliffs, which indicate the myriad hidden warrens of the subterranean Swiss Armed Forces - I haven't said a word!!!!!!!!!

Deep in the forest is Km 15 - 5:00 min/km; 12,0 kph; 16,7 kph; 155 bpm - we're starting to go downhill again, and it feels good on the mind, but hard on the wooden legs. There's another watering hole and funeral director, and I whisk a carboard mug of some liquid from the hand of a smiling teenaged lass, as I thunder past, splashing her with mud, and down it quickly (the liquid, not the mud), but do not like the taste, so complement it with the diluted Gatorade from my Camelbak!!!!

Km 16 - 4:47 min/km; 12,4 kph; 15,9 kph; 162 bpm - this is THE big downhill, and is scary. A gym friend of mine was tragically killed here a few years ago, when he cycled down this decline, and went over the edge to his horribly premature death. We, as undertakers, had his body to deal with, and his wife and family were devastated, which is hardly surprisingly. I think of Jürg, as I run this decline, and hope he is happy and at peace, wherever he is. It's a sad few moments for me - such a terrible waste of human life.

Km 17 - 5:15 min/km; 11,6 kph; 13,8 kph; 163 bpm - just to show us, it's not all a walk in the park, another incline appears - not a whole one, but enough to annoy - and it's up we go again, behind the golf course of the town of Domat/Ems. I know, that from now on, it's mostly flat or downhill to Chur, so feel invigorated. My muddy buddy I have left far behind me - his knees broke on the sharp decline, and he collapsed into a ditch, with a scream of terror, soon after my wine glass hit his left temple. C'est la vie.

It's the home run, now. 18 km - 5:07 min/km; 11,7 kph; 14,0 kph; 162 bpm. It's flat now, and the sun is shining brilliantly. Since the demise of my previous pacing mate, I have latched on to another, and he runs in trepidation next to me, realising his eventual fate at the hands of a competitively-streaked undertaker. I remove my iPod earphones, and ask him, quite casually, if he has seen the movie Black Sheep, knowing quite well, what horror that would instill within him. The ensuing scene is horrible, but I have one less competitor.

Km 19 - and we're in Domat/Ems - perhaps one of the most boring places on the face of the earth. 5:19 min/km; 11,3 kph; 12,7 kph; 162 bpm. The reduction in pace is certainly due to having to wipe off the blood from my face. On, and on. I can see Chur in the distance. Bonnie Tyler's "Tyre Tracks, and Broken Hearts" floods my brain as I pace forwards, wondering if Kurt is somewhere in the vicinity, ready to video me.

Km 20 - 5:22 min/km; 11,1,kph; 12,4 kph; 162 bpm. It's getting hot, and I am starting to sweat profusely, but I tell myself, that on the MdS, this will be normal at 50°C, so shift that butt, and get going towards Chur. Shortly afterwards, a copse of trees, and a watering hole. I have been sipping my diluted Gatorade religiously, but need something else now - ah, lack of wine is starting to make itself felt!!!!! My mind turns to psychological warfare and secret societies, as I thunder in to the refreshment station. With esoteric thoughts, I grab an outheld cup of something, and down it - it's Coca Cola - how absolutely gross. I have not drunk that stuff since George's father thought of becoming president of the USA. Sugar is what I need, so down the stuff, and keep moving. A few seconds later, I look up, and there is Kurt, with that wretched video camera again, filming my every move. (I shall upload these hideous videos to YouTube one day soon, and inform the reader of their link - be afraid, be very afraid!!!). I swear appropriately, and thunder on.

Oh, my goodness - ahead of me, is a LONG, FLAT stretch of ground, filled with runners, all heading for Chur and a hot bath. I'll never make it!!!! WIMP. Head down, and run. And off I go, on a perfectly ordinary day..... Isn't life strange...?

Halfway across that long flat, it's Km 21 - 5:15 min/km; 11,4 kph; 12,4 kph; 162 bpm.
It is a positive split, but I don't care anymore - I am doing well, after only three weeks of training, although things will improve!!!!!

Oh, crikey, it's a downhill, followed by a vicious uphill again as we approach the village of Felsberg. I'd forgotten about this little nuisance.

Km 22 - 5:14 min/km; 11,5 kph; 13,1 kph; 163 bpm. I've run this route so often, and could do it in my sleep. But, my mind tells me, that we are nearly there, so I give a quick spurt past my pacing buddy, and head off. We're next to the Rhine, now, and this is my area!!! My training area.

Km 23/25 - not too sure what happened here, but the satellite thingy got all mixed up and I had two splits in one - buggery technology. Anyway, here are the average results for 2 km: 5:13 min/km; 11,4 kph; 17,2 kph; 165 bpm. Very excited now. Nearly there, and it's all almost over, although I have the feeling, that I wish it could go on for ages. I don't want to finish. I am enjoying it so much. I feel strong, pain-free, happy, ecstatic......

Finally, the end. I see Kurt standing there, just in front of the ice hockey stadium, video camera aiming at me. I am invincible. I feel incredible. I am almost there. I can hardly wait for the Berlin Marathon in September, and the MdS next year. I LOVE RUNNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The last few hundred metres: I run like the blazes, enter the ice hockey stadium, and cross the ZIEL, probably the most happy man on the face of the earth. I have achieved the Bündner-Frühlingslauf in 2:09:02, placed 34 out of 65 in my age group, 179 out of 414 over all.

A walk in the park; a step in the dark. HAIL, Major Tom. There is more .... to follow.....

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 3

2008-04-18T07:18:00.000+02:00

This entry refers to Wednesday, 16th April.

It was quite a day on Wednesday. Outside, it felt like mid-winter - heavily overcast, windy, bitingly cold, grey, miserable, inclement, unfriendly, get the message? Inside, there were decisions that needed to be made - should I buy the green rubbish bin liners or the red ones? There were habits that needed to be changed:

Bodies had to be fetched, and then, most importantly, after writing endless messages to the MdS forum on the Internet, there were plans to be made about running. I hadn't had a break from death for nigh over two and a half weeks, and decided one was called for, so I opted for an afternoon off, and set out on a good run, despite the pitiless climes which swathed us in their gloom and despair.

I began with the normal preparations upstairs in the apartment. First of all, there was the gathering of the equipment, not a simple matter at the best of times. All my running equipment is stored in my favourite room of the house - the ironing room. At least, there, it's not in dread of its life, because that's my domain, I shudder to admit. I had decided, that I would wear my rucksack, bought from the Darbaroud website (official site of the Marathon des Sables), once again. I had worn it on the Sunday run, and it did feel comfortable. This time, however, I decided I would wear the front pouch attachment, and set about attaching it - what a performance, and it will teach me right for undoing the whole thing without carefully noting how it all went together in the first place. I filled up the four water bottles with diluted Gatorade, added weight to the pack itself, mounted it (there is no other word to describe how one puts this monster on), and felt ready to go. Ah, what about stretching? Oh dear, the whole lot had to come off again, there was a lot of whingeing, and I did my stretching exercises. I've been quite diligent at these lately, and can now touch the floor in front of my feet, with legs straightened. It's a good feeling at my age!!!! Stretching complete, I popped downstairs to the business to bid my farewell to the powers-that-be, suffered the barrage of verbal abuse, and set off, clicking all the buttons of my various gadgets as I emerged from the door.

It was almost a deep freeze as I ran my first few moments. Admittedly, I did have on my tiniest of running shorts (Asics), which Kurt refers to as disgustingly erotic, and a thinnish Nike long-sleeved running shirt. The temperature was 6°C, as I slowly warmed up next to the Plessur River which flows in front of our house, but the wind chill factor was certainly around 2°C. My favourite music blaring in my ears from my beloved iPod, I headed down towards the Rhein (Rhine), feeling happy and confident. My Garmin 305 recorded every step I took, receiving signals from some arcane satellite system high up above me, with the vultures.

I did receive some strange looks from some very strange people as I ran along, but, I told myself, they're all ignorant, and will never know what it's like to deprave oneself by running through the desert for seven days. The Rhein reached, I decided not to run on it, as I am usually wont to do, but alongside it, and headed towards the village of Felsberg, through the military area, where a lot of shooting was going on. I had to do a lot of dodging of bullets and missiles, but my fictitious training in the Légion Étrangère stood me in good stead.

Through the village of Felsberg I ran, feeling good and happy, enjoying my music, sipping regularly from my Gatorade, and blowing my nose every 200 metres or so. I suffer from hayfever, and, whilst this year it has not been too bad, the pollen has had a marked effect on my throat, and also affects my nose when I run. I must lose litres of fluid through my nasal orifices when I run. It's most annoying, and I'm not one of those people, who can just expel nasal fluids into the air, like some runners do. I need a tissue, so run with the pouch filled with them. This does, however, cause an annoyance to my gait as I trundle along. Not only that, but years of cortisone nasal sprays have left my nasal membranes very thin, and I bleed a lot from the nose, which adds insult to injury. Anyway......

Dripping blood and nose juices all along the trail, I continued along the Rhein towards the next village of Tamins, which is quite a lot higher than the Rhein valley. In fact, it involves a run up a steep hill, which also kills me on the mountain bike. Not one to complain (oh, yeah?), I ran up the hill, and was amazed that I reached the top without any swearing or cursing. My gym has certainly helped; I must also give due to my red wine consumption, because I have been told, that red wine is good for one, and I must, consequently, be in excellent health!!!!

Tamins is a beautiful village, and I enjoyed running through it, particularly as it was the beginning of a long descent to the village of Reichenau, nestled right next to the Rhein. Thundering down, I past a little, old lady, striding uphill. As I past her, I felt her gaze burning my disgustingly erotic shorts, and could quite well hear her tut-tutting as I hurtled past. Anyone would think some people had never seen legs before!!!!!

Up to the Reichenau railway station on the other side of the Rhein, and then the direction was northwards, when the full blast of the, hitherto unnoticed, north wind was felt. I had been a little cold, but not the sort of nutt-freezing cold that the north wind, when it doth blow, can bring. Whew, I felt it then. It almost deep-froze me, it was that cold. And it was strong. I had another 13 km to run, and I was freezing - oh, boy, what a lot of fun it was going to be. My nasal discharges increased to every 100 metres, but I headed onwards and onwards, knowing, that I would eventually be in the warmth again.

Domat/Ems came and went, and the wind continued unabatedly. Then I remembered a small bridge under the Autobahn which led to a forest path back to Chur. At least, in the forest, the force of the wind would be minimised, so I headed for that. There was a sense of relief in the forest, for sure, but my body was that cold, that I could not micturate (pee) against a passing sheep when I needed to (no, the prostate is in perfect working order, thank you).

On and on I went, my nose becoming certainly bright red, my body as cold as ice, but my level of determination as high as when I started - and, I firmly believe, that this is what is required to complete the Marathon des Sables!!!!! My legs felt good all the time; my chest and nose were the problem, but I thundered through, and overcame the hindrance that might have caused otherwise.

Finally I reached the outskirts of Chur. I had another three or four kilometres to run, and I was starting to tire because my chest and nose were giving me hell. My head was starting to hurt, too, but I put that down to the stress my respiratory system was causing me.

I eventually arrived at the door to our house, with the song Major Tom by the German Singer, Peter Schilling, blasting my brain - one of my favourite songs ever, and a perfect song by which to run.

Equipment shut-down, and breath in the warm air of home!!!!!!! Gosh, it was wonderful. The run, itself, was amazingly good - it was just the weather, and my respiratory system, that caused a few problems. Nonetheless, spring will one day spring, and I will be able to breathe better and enjoy longer and faster runs, every step being towards the MdS!!!!!

The gammy leg? No problem at all. Even today, I have no problems whatsoever. I had planned a 10-km run this evening, but the death business saw to it, that I was exhausted by the day's end. Consequently, it was a long, hot shower and some good red wine for me. Tomorrow, the weather is forecast to be warmer, so I shall do my 10-km rum, and then, with 20°C predicted for Sunday, I'll get in a 30-km one.

I love running more than I could ever have previously imagined. My temporary lay-off, due to the injury, is over, and I am now back into my passion in a big way. All roads lead, now, to the 2009 MdS.

Here endeth the lesson.

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 2

2008-04-15T20:40:00.000+02:00

I thought I would copy and paste an account of my run on last Sunday, so that it's available here, too, and not just on the MdS forum. Refers to Sunday, 13th April.

Just in after a beautiful Sunday run. Ran the equivalent of a half-mara, but not a PB by any means. Some really steep parts in the beginning, and hardly had time to warm-up properly. Then through the Fürstenwald forest, after which it was across undulating hills, and finally down to the Rhine and the long slog home.

Pics are on my Flickr.com site.

The good news is: not a single mutter or twinge from my injury spot, and that's the longest I have run since November last year. Maybe I am on the mend for once and for all.

The bad news is: I lost my brand new, and very yellow, wrist-worn meteorological station (wind, temperature, humidity, pressure)

(see: http://www.skyview.co.uk/dept1/acata...Pro_Watch.html).

I clipped it onto my MdS rucksack (which weighed 5 kg, by the way), and wondered then, if it was such a good idea. What a wally I am - suddenly thought of it about halfway, and it was gone, must have clipped it on badly. It was no good looking - it could have been anywhere!!!! Cost me about €250, so I am not happy. Believe me, before the MdS next year, I'll have another one.

I learnt a lot from this run, carrying the pack. Liquid (took lots of diluted Gatorade with me) moves when one runs - clever, that!!!! Need to investigate various ways of stabilising the pack. Ah, and I have realised, too, that every gram of weight does count!!!!!! Other than Thursday's jaunt up Mittenberg, I've never really run seriously with a rucksack before, so this was an interesting experience, and I have learnt already from it.

Looking forward to lots more of this kind of training. I'm amazed I actually managed 21 km because we got to bed quite late last night, I was up at 2:15 to fetch a body in a village in the mountains high above Chur (bloody death in the night!!!! ), back home at 3:45 a.m., and only got back to sleep around 5 o'clock. Up again at 9 o'clock, so I wasn't what one would call rested!!!! I felt a little sluggish, I have to admit - hmm, nothing to do with the bottle of red last night, I presume????

Now it's a hot bath, and then off to best friends for an apéro in the sun.

Rambling on.... 1

2008-04-15T20:15:00.000+02:00

I've just realised, it's been a while since I last entered anything to my blog. To be honest, I have been totally absorbed with the MdS UK forum to which I belong, and where I write a lot, too. I think next year's MdS is going to be quite a festive affair, along with blisters, tears and thirst.

I'm going to try to keep up-to-date here, and may also copy some of my forum writings to my blog, so I have all the important stuff in one place. I really do want to write a book once I have done the 2009 MdS, and a lot of the "data" will be here for me so, that I don't forget it. My thoughts, feelings, fears, worries, excitements (is that a word?), etc. will all appear here, too, as well as my training, and other info.

The picture, here, is one I took from the MdS website, and sort of typifies the way I envisage the race (if you click on it, it should appear large). I've actually started running like this, too, to get used to having a rucksack on my back while I run. I need to try out lots of equipment before I decide on what will (hopefully) be right for me. To this effect, I have all the friends and info on the MdS UK forum to whom/which to turn. All in all, it's a huge undertaking (no pun intended, considering our business!!!), and needs a lot of research and experimentation. I am very excited about it, although I have to keep my excitement somewhat concealed at home, because it's not something which Kurt sees as essential, and thus is not really that important in his eyes. I can cope with that, but it does mean, that my excitement could be poured out here like a waterfall - I hope it doesn't irritate any readers, but then, no one is compelled to read my blogs!!!!

I have a year 'til I fly off to Morocco. The whole thing for Swiss, German, Austrian and Liechtensteiners is organised through an agent in Germany, and I have been informed by her, that I am on the list for 2009. All I have to do now, is get together the approximately €3000 to pay for it all!!!!!!! I'm toying with the idea of seeing if I can get a sponsor (e.g. a bank, supermarket chain, or whatever), which would be a great help. I guess I'll have to write some very carefully-worded letters, and send them off, in the hope, that some money will be forthcoming!!!!! I would also like to try to raise money (as a lot of runenrs do) for some kind of "Dudley Do-Gooder" sort of charity - perhaps cancer research, or care for the elderly. My drinking buddy, Mohammad, suggested I raise money for the Craig and Mohammad Wine Cellar Re-stocking charity. Anyway, lots to sort out and organise, but I enjoy that kind of thing.

Equipment for the race is of paramount importance. I'm going to chat to others, especially the forumites, and find out how they have organised themselves. I seem to think a good idea would be, to go through a list of every aspect of this self-sufficiency undertaking, and examine each component individually - e.g. the shoes, the socks, and so on. And I know, a year is going to fly by. I may also not forget, that I have to run and run and run and run as well, and, even that is not just a matter of running - there are all sorts of things one has to consider, depending upon how well one wants to do in the race. I'm by no means one of the top runners, and think I am more like a lot of the other members of the forum, in that I want simply to finish the MdS, regardless of time taken. In the last race, the top guy completed the seven-day, 243-km race in 19H27'46 (19 hours, 27 minutes and 46 seconds); the last one in, accumulated a time of 76H52'24 - now, that's quite a difference. I can see myself somewhere in the middle - a mid-packer, as the terminology goes. One doesn't run the whole way (except for the elite, of course), and there is quite a lot of walking/hiking, mountain ascending, dune hell, and so on. It's going to be tough, but a lot of fun, and what a challenge.

Well, let the training start. Unfortunately, we are having MISERABLE weather in Switzerland again, with the same set to last for a while. My Iliopsoas tendon injury seems to have sorted itself out, and, after a good run on Sunday (see next blog entry), I have no pain whatsoever from it - just a few tense spots around the right knee, which will be sorted out forthwith!!!!!

Looking forward to some long runs ahead of me. I have a lot to plan with my running for the next year, as said. Coming up first, though, I have the Bündner-Frühlingslauf on Saturday, 26th April from Thusis to Chur - a 25-km race, which will be the longest I have run to date. Having not been able to do much training 'til recently, I am not expecting any wonderful time, but just want to do it for the run itself - as of now, every kilometre counts towards the 2009 MdS. Then, on 10th May, I'm running in the 16-km Grand Priz de Bern in the nation's capital.

I have yet to work out what marathons I will do this year - I presume Berlin in September, and perhaps Luzern (Lucerne) in October. I also want to do a few half-maras in summer, and then some time, my planned solo multi-day run from Zürich to Chur, with full rucksack. As I said, let the training start.

My Training for the 2009 MdS - 1

2008-04-09T10:26:00.000+02:00

Right, now that I have decided, that I am running the Marathon des Sables in 2009, any training I do heads in this direction.

Some points, first of all.

1. Last week, the 2008 MdS took place, and my life came to a standstill because of it. The focus of every spare minute I had, was upon the race, and my friends from the forum, found on:

http://www.themds.co.uk/forums/index.php

I say "friends" - I have never met these guys and ladies in person, but have had a lot of contact with them via the forum, and they are all the kind of people whom I can indubitably class as the kind of people who, when I (hopefully) do meet them, will become instant real-time friends. I spent a lot of my time writing them e-mails with words of encouragement and friendship whilst they ran (they received the e-mails each evening), and, from the response I have since had, my messages were well-received. I felt the most incredible connection to these folk, and I was concerned, almost to the point of tears, for example, when a guy called Keith had to withdraw from the race after Stage 1 (I have yet to find out why, and how he is). My sense of relief, when all the rest arrived home, was more than I can describe. I feel, like I ran the MdS 2008 with them in spirit. It all makes me realise, that the MdS is where I belong.

2. My whole life has seen me being absolutely fascinated with desert landscapes and cultures. Perhaps there is a psychological reason for that, but we won't go down that road now. I have a total obsession, for example, with the Tibesti mountains of northern Tchad (Chad, in English), and one day, with the hopeful logistical help of a friend who was in the Légion Étrangère (French Foreign Legion), and who now lives in N'Djamèna (the capital of Tchad), I may still get there one day, despite the risk. I have books here at home in Chur, in various languages, about Tibesti, and other areas of the Sahara desert. I am besotted with Yemen, particularly its island province of Socotra; I would love to run the Gobi ultramarathon one day; I am in contact with people who have run/are running the Augrabies ultramara in the Kalahari Desert of South Africa, and am planning on this one day; I spend a lot of time studying the Namib Desert of South-West Africa (whoops - sorry, it's now called Namibia) on GoogleEarth. There is just something about deserts which takes a hold of me. In case there are questions about whether or not I have ever actually been in a desert - the answer is a resounding "YES". I have spent time in deserts in Australia (let's face it: half the country is a desert), and absolutely loved it; I drove through the Karoo semi-desert in South Africa in 2007 by myself, and felt the most amazing sense of peace and happiness I have ever experienced in my life, despite, at the time, going through an intense personal conflict. I think I can safely say, the desert is something that is almost "home" to me, despite the fact, that I come from tropical south-eastern South Africa, and live now in the Alps.

3. I have read several reports from runners of the MdS prior to 2008, and, despite tales of woe and hardship, I have been totally pulled towards this event. This year's tales and photos, thus far, have taken on an even greater attraction, because I know people who have done it. Am I daunted or frightened by what I hear/read/see? - a big, fat "NO"!!!!!!! I cannot wait for it. I had originally set my sights on 2010 for my participation in this absolutely incredible sport event, but, based upon what I have seen and experienced from 2008, plus the amazing demand for me, by many of the forum members, to be there in 2009, I have changed my mind. 2009, here I come.

4. Learn Français!!!! I am not going to greet Patrick Bauer at the end, and speak English!!!!!! Actually, I started yesterday!!!!!!

There are some hurdles to overcome - two, in fact. One being this buggery leg of mine which, I have to admit, is still causing me hassles, but which, I have decided, is not going to stop me training for the 2009 MdS; the other is, of course, the enormous cost of participating on the MdS, currently around €2900. The latter hurdle can, and shall, be overcome; the injury is something I have to be sensible about, yet, at the same time, I am not going to let it stop me. I have seen, this year, how runners with amazing hindrances have battled it out, and been victorious - I think, in particular, of people like Al and his knee/leg (the most amazing of characters I have come across in my life), or Markus, who ran, despite a problematic knee; and even Keith, who had to withdraw, after Stage 1, as mentioned. The MdS is 80% mind, and 20% body, and the mental part is, for me, more than catered for!!!!!; the physical side, I would estimate currently, is covered to a percentage of about 12. I KNOW I can finish the MdS. Nothing about it deters me - holds me in awe, perhaps, but does not, in any way, intimidate me. I plan to spend this year, totally dedicated to participating on, and achieving, the 2009 MdS. It'll be the greatest achievment of my life. I have never felt so motivated about anything before.

I know, there are folk around who have serious reservations about all this. My mother, for one - I am her son, we have an incredible bond, which has overcome obstacles that would have seen the strongest weep, and she has a right to be concerned about her 51-year-old son, not exactly the epitome of a sporting personality, suddenly taking part on the most gruelling foot race in the world (it is NOT a walk in the park, and people have died doing it); my sports doctor and my orthopaedic specialist, who think I am insane. And so on. Yet, I have absolutely no reservations about taking part. I want to do it, with absolutely every component of my being. I shall not take part for anyone else but myself. I am not trying to prove anything to anyone; I am not doing it to become a big shot; I am not doing it to show the world I am not a failure. I am doing it, because I want to, for me, to achieve something for myself!!!!!! And, I will not do it once - I shall do it as often as I can, and can afford.

This is getting deep, but it is deep. There are a lot of psychological reasons, why people take part in extreme sports, and I have my own, which I shall one day, verbalise here. Despite all that, let the training begin. So many people I know have said to me: Craig, you must write a book. I know. And I shall/will one day - one day, when the time is right, and I believe, that shall be after my first participation on the MdS. I believe, my first participation on the MdS shall be a journey of discovery of the life of one very strange, enigmatic, deep, emotional, intense, unfathomable (despite statements to the contrary) person. We shall see.

So, let the training begin (it actually started on Monday, last week). By the way, the time stamp is correct - I cannot sleep. Arcanely yours, Craig

A Change of Plans........ I must be mad.

2008-04-06T23:35:00.000+02:00

I really think I must be losing the plot. This week has been the most intense of my life - sportwise, anyway. Everything has come to a virtual standstill while the 23rd Marathon des Sables has taken place in eastern Morocco in the Sahara Desert. I have spent every single spare moment of the last week anxiously scanning the websites for news, info and results. Several running mates of mine have been out there this year on the MdS, and I have used my time at home to keep in touch with them, and add my contribution to the British forum of the whole event. It's been quite a week, and, when the race finished yesterday, I felt as exhausted as the hero runners. Big Smile.

Then, admittedly edged on by a rather overwhelming show of support from forum members, many of whom are running next year, I've sort of completely made up my mind to race as well in 2009 (and, if it goes well for me, again in 2010, 2011, 2012...... 'til death causes me to stop). There are a few hurdles to overcome first, mainly financial and physical, but my mental state is totally for 2009, and the other two obstacles can be overcome for sure. This means, that this time next year (or around thus time, anyway, as the dates are not always the same), I'll be in Morocco, proving my high level of insanity to the world.

Whilst the agents for the race from the UK and other countries have already booked out their contingents up to, and including 2010, I can reserve a place on the MdS over the German agent, thanks to my living in Switzerland. Bookings open at the beginning of October for the following year's race, so I could still very well get on to the 2009 MdS.

In other news - I've started running again after a long time of inactivity, due to that pesky Iliopsoas tendon injury. I started off slowly - 3 kms a day for two days - then gradually built up to a nice medium run yesterday of 12 km which included some pretty stiff hill-work, too. The gammy leg is not 100%, that's for sure, but it's not causing me any pain - just a irksome tension to remind me it's still there. However, I am convinced I can beat this thing, and inactivity is not one of the solutions. I will take it slowly, and I will conquer it!!!

So, there we have it. Normal blog entries will resume tomorrow, now that I have my life back again. However, I must yet again add a HUGE SALUTE to all the runners on the 2008 MdS. They are super-humans, and to be admired.

TOTAL NEWS BLACKOUT

2008-04-03T19:42:00.000+02:00

Sorry, total blog blackout - it's the week of the

MARATHON DES SABLES - 2008

and my entire being is otherwise occupied. My life will resume on Sunday.

Cheers,

Craig

Pumping iron - sounds impressive - 4

2008-03-26T23:33:00.000+01:00

Haven't had a chance to write any more for a while, but here is my second workout, which I simply call Day 2.

Inclined barbell press 3 x 20, 25 kg
Close-grip lateral pulldowns 3 x 20, 35 kg
Decline bench semi-situps 25, 20, 18
Calf machine raises 3 x 30, 110 kg
Machine shoulder press 3 x 20, 30 kg
Leg extension 3 x 18, 30 kg
Roman Chair back extension 3 x 22
Abs machine 3 x 30, 10 Units

More soon.

Pumping iron - sounds impressive - 3

2008-03-20T00:15:00.000+01:00

I realised yesterday, that I am spending too much time in gym on my workouts. I have a programme of four days which I spread out over a week, often doing five workout days a week. This in itself is not so bad, considering I am not yet fully back into running, but each workout is taking nearly two hours, and any gym rat will tell you, that's too much.

The problem is, as always, I am trying to do too much, and I'll eventually wear myself out, and cause myself injury - it would not be the first time!!!!!!! Of course, as a runner, my main priority is building up the core muscles, and developing stamina, not bulking and getting huge (tried that already, anyway, and it doesn't work for me as I am not genetically predisposed to being Arnold II).

Especially when I get back into running, there is no way I will have time to do five two-hour workouts a week, plus run, plus wellness. Running is my first priority. Hence, today I decided to cut down on my gym programme. My workout for later this afternoon is as follows:

Barbell Bench Press 3 sets x 20 repetitions, 30 kg
Wide-grip Lateral Pulldowns 3 x 20, 35 kg
Adductors 3 x 20, 30 kg
Floor Crunches 3 x 42 (slowly increasing each week)
Calf Machine Raises 3 x 30, 110 kg
Biceps Curls Machine 3 x 20, 15 kg
Abs Machine 3 x 30, 10 units (have no idea how many kg, but I know it's tough at this weight)

Beforehand, because I drive to gym in this revolting weather we're having, I do five minutes on the cycling machine, and then a series of stretching exercises which take about 15 minutes.

The weights are not at all impresisve, but they're not supposed to be. I watch some of the other gym hot-shots, and, taking lateral pulldowns as an example, they may use 50 kg, but are doing 8 to 10 reps, while I'm at 20 reps!!!!!! I increase my weights slowly, as long as I can still do 20 reps of each set. I split the abs excercises on purpose, to give me a chance to recover in between them. my abs are quite strong now, but still no sign of the six-pack - probably never will be as I drink too much red wine!!!!!!

I'll add the other programmes this week as I do them. Of course, now that I can at least "walk fast" on the treadmill, I need more time for that, too - at least three times a week. When I get out on the road again, my time in gym will have to reduce to maximum three times a week.

If anyone actually reads these blogs, and can give any constructive criticism to my workouts, I'd be happy to consider any advice.

The Dreaded Treadmill - but progress - 1

2008-03-19T18:45:00.000+01:00

On Sunday last at gym, I had the usual intense workout, and then decided - just to see - how it would be to do a fast walk on the treadmill again. I had to keep reminding myself, that I would not run until the end of April.

I started off slowly, gradually working up to a speed of 8,0 kph, which is quite a fast walk, but not yet a run as such. I set the inclination at 1,5%, and had a good sweat for a while. I knew what would happen, though - I increased the speed to 8,1 kph, which forced me into a slow run, and I expected the normal searing pain to hit me in my injured upper right femoral area.

What a pleasant surprise, when all I had was a slight discomfort in said area. No pain at all. However, I decided to be cautious when I thought back to the aftermath of a trial on the treadmill two weeks ago, and dropped the speed to 8 kph again after about 200 metres of running. I set the inclination at 2%, and managed a good 2,5-km walk.

Yesterday at gym, I decided again to hit the dreadmill. I did the same as before, building up slowly to 8 kph, only now, the temptation to run was very strong. This time, after five minutes of rapid walking, I increased the speed to 8,3 kph and took my first running step. There was neither pain nor discomfort. It was an amazing feeling. It was the first time I have been able to run since about the beginning of November, and not have any pain. Almost in tears of joy, I left the speed at 8,3 kph, and ran for about 200 metres this time, all pain- and discomfort-free. What a pleasure, and I was filled with emotion. Visions of marathons and ultramarathons came flooding into my head again, and I saw HOPE for the future!!!!!!!

I am most certainly learning from this injury, because after 200 metres, I decided to drop back to a fast walk again, and not push it!!!! Once again, 2,5 km and it felt great, just knowing I could run 200 metres!!!!!! I'll skip the dreadmill this evening and just do my workout, followed by the wellness evening at Bener Parc afterwards.

My mind is faster than my body, and it is already planning maras for autumn this year. I just hope that I can stick to being sensible, and not injure myself again. I do think that all my working out, stretching and caution is paying dividends.

Sweating off the bollocks - 1

2008-03-13T22:15:00.000+01:00

For over a year now, I've been availing myself of a wellness centre in Chur, located in a so-called Altersresidence (Residence for the Elderly) not far from home. I have an anual subscription there, which means I can go any time, although there are certain restrictions - for example: Tuesday and Thursdays are for women only; we men only get one day a week to ourselves, namely Wednesday, and even then, it's a constant fight to keep the old dears out of the place (it must be my gorgeous body which attracts them - or not).

The complex is really very modern, clean and immaculately kept, and spending a few hours there each Wednesday evening, is an absolute pleasure. Not only is there a pristine swimming pool (only 12,5 metres long, but still usable), but also a whirlpool, sun bed, and (in the sauna complex itself) a Finnish sauna, steam room and caldarium, relaxing area, as well as spotless toilets, showers and locker facilities/rooms, and also a small, modernly-equipped gym.

I go most Wednesday evenings (men's only) after a workout at my gym further along the road, and spend a good two hours there, mostly using the sauna, steam bath and caldarium. I start off with a hot shower, and then a good 30 minutes in the Finnish sauna - I used to only do 10 to 15 minutes, but since I have got my mind set on the Marathon des Sables in 2010, I've decided to slowly get my body used to extreme temperatures, and can now endure a solid half hour of 85°C in the sauna, lying on the top slat-bed, followed by five minutes at the lowest level to "cool down". This is followed by a freezing cold shower, which doesn't last for longer than 20 seconds!!!! The shower itself is a high pressure one, with a waterfall kind of nozzle where ice cold water emerges, and offers a marked temperature change to the sauna; one emerges all pink and glowing.

Then, I enjoy a quarter hour in the relaxing area, followed by a good sweat in the steam bath for 20 minutes, another relax time, and 10 to 15 minutes in the extremely hot and damp caldarium, all interspersed with that cold shower!!!! Finally, a luke-warm shower, using shower gel, sees the end of my wellness session. If I haven't been to gym before, I sometimes use the swimming pool, and do a comfortable 500-metre swim, alternating between breast stroke and crawl, and after that, a few times in the whirlpool.

Once dressed again, I make my way upstairs to the famous restaurant in the residence, called Va Bene (in English, basically: it's OK). Here, I sit in the bar area (now all smoke-free, which is fantastic), and enjoy a large glass of red wine, before making my way home around 9 p.m. With the gym beforehand, it really is an evening of wellness.

Apart from the attempted intrusion by some old biddies from time to time, I am usually alone in the sauna area on Wednesday evenings, which suits me fine. Occassionally, one or two men may come in, but they never stay long. The facilities are open to the residence inhabitants, but ten subscriptions are available to "outsiders" - at this stage, I think only about four of them have been sold (Kurt has one, as do I). Kurt usually goes on Mondays when it is mixed, and he says, there are usually only a few people there.

I really enjoy it, especially since deciding to do the MdS, and having the sauna for some heat acclimatisation!!!! If I didn't attach something I were doing to the MdS, then one could really say, that something was amiss!!!!!!

I have uploaded some photographs of the place, to my flickr.com website (see the left column).

Mountain Biking - alternate training 2

2008-03-11T04:22:00.000+01:00

It's been a real Monday today, and we've been undertaking really hard all day. It started off with the me driving through to Zürich to fetch the body of the 101-year-old dead lady who is to be buried in St. Moritz. The distance from Chur to Zürich Airport is only 150 km, but one has to drive through Zürich city itself, and this causes it to be a very stressful journey. At the airport, the formalities, as they always are in Switzerland, were sorted out in a very short time, and I was presented with the "human remains" in no time at all. A container was wheeled out to the hearse, and I could not believe the size of it. Apologies to sensitive Americans, but why do Americans have to over-do things to the extreme? I have never in my life seen such a big and heavy box for one tiny old lady. The coffin (casket) was inside the box, and only occupied about two-thirds of the space. There was no way I was going to get that in our hearse, and get the back door closed. Eventually, two of the guys from customs came and helped me, and they brought ropes so I could secure the back door as well as possible - it was still about ten centimetres open. I had an absolute horror of the ropes breaking and the coffin falling out while I drove home on the motorway!!!!! Thankfully, I arrived home safely, and we transferred the little old dear from her incredibly heavy and ostentatious casket in the giant wooden box, into a normal Swiss coffin for tomorrow's transport to her final resting place in St. Moritz!!!!!! It was all quite an experience. And then there were five other bodies, one being a HUGE fat German bloke (certainly around 140 kg in weight) who had collapsed and died of a heart attack in front of his hotel in a ski resort above Chur.

But I digress. Yesterday was another day of good mountain-biking. With lots of business things on, I wasn't too sure if I'd get to it, but, luckily enough, I did. Here is my tale......

After a lot of cold weather last week, compared to the 24°C when I had my last ride a fortnight ago, Sunday's forecast wasn't too bad, with sunshine, and a temperature of around 13°C in our area. I set off on my trusty mountain bike at around midday, heading in the same general direction as the ride two weeks ago. This time, though, instead of going straight along the Rhein, I cycled uphill towards the forests above Chur in the area known as Fürstenwald. It's a beautiful region, with walking and cycling tracks all over. The problem is getting there - it's steep. Nevertheless, I managed, and enetered the forest, my heart set on a good ride, even if my mind was still somewhat tumultuously inclined after one or two - let us say - incidents.

My little yellow wrist weather station, which I had mounted on the bike's handlebars instead of wearing on my wrist (which was already flashing "OVERWEIGHT" warnings, due to the Garmin 305 GPS gadget, and my Polar Heart Rate Monitor), showed a temperature of a mere 12°C, which was about 12° less than when I cycled last. Fortunately, I had been sensible (a first for me) and worn my running jacket as well as my running gloves, and thank goodness I did. I did, however, don my short Lycra running shorts, but legs seem to repel the cold.

There were a lot of people walking through the forest, despite the damp and mud caused by the recent snowfalls and rain. I was a paragon of politeness as I slowed down when I rode past earthlings, making sure I did not cover them in brown mud, despite often wishing I could just do it for the fun of it. My mountain bike has no mud guards, and I was aware of the mud flying up my back and coating my apparel in dirt. My legs, too, were very soon covered in nature's goo, but I took it in my stride, and pedalled ever onwards and upwards.

Once out of the forest, I came to the village of Trimmis, which presents some steep tarred roads, and a chance to increase the average velocity on my bike's computer by thundering down the inclines after the lofty elevations in the forest. There were far fewer cyclists en route this time, but a lot of families pushing prams - at times I felt like I was doing a slalom due to the number of such phenomena. Once through Trimmis, it was across the famous vineyards of our region, more on trails, than on cycling tracks or roads, and I gave the mountain bike a run for its money. Mud and pieces of cow-do flew all over the place, and I must have been quite a sight to behold once I reached the next village of Zizers.

Through Zizers I went, noticing how the temperature had risen to a staggering 13°C. A lot of the trees have already started giving off their deadly (to me) pollen, and I was very aware of my hay-fever starting. Try cycling through the centre of a village, while sneezing profusely, and, at the same time, avoid the fountains and statues that such settlements fame themselves for. Leaving behind a profusion of fallen granite memorials and thoroughly damaged water features, I escaped the inevitable stone-throwing, and sped along to the next village of Landquart, situated on the Landquart River. There is a supermarket there, which opens on Sundays (unlike most other shops in Switzerland), and there, I availed myself of a litre of Gatorade, and three (hopefully) healthy energy bars. My ride a fortnight before, was basically foodless, and I ended up with rather a severe cramp in my right quadricep muscle at one stage, so I thought it best to eat this time. Surprisingly enough, it worked, and I had a cramp-free ride.

From Landquart, it was along tracks again through the forest, and on to the thermal baths resort of Bad Ragaz, further along the Rhein, and towards Liechtenstein, but, before I went across a bridge to that little place, I veered southwards, and headed through the town of Sargans. All the way to Sargans, the temperature remained at about 13°C, and I had a head-wind. The north wind was blowing, and I was heading northwards, which meant, that my homeward journey would be with the wind behind me, unlike the trip last time. In Sargans, I stopped to eat some sawdust-type energy bar, and noticed a significant rise of temperature to around 15°C. This could only mean one of two things - either, my body was emanating heat from the energy bar, or, more likely, the Föhn had started blowing. This is the warm, south-westerly wind which comes in from the south over the mountains, and down the Rhein valley, warming and drying as it descends. I had had a head-wind all the way to Sargans; now I was to have the same back to Chur. A non-happy bunny decided it was time to forego the planned ride to Walenstadt (about one third of the way from Chur to Zürich), and get home before the Föhn got nasty!!!!

And so, while Bob spent the afternoon sorting out his stamp collection, and Jill tried a home perm which left her bald and sporting some horrible burn marks on her scalp, I left Sargans and headed back to Chur, my mind trying to come to terms with the extra energy that I would then expend, thanks to the Föhn. In honesty, what came to my mind a lot, was a phrase used by a recent Swiss runner of the Marathon des Sables - when asked what advice he could give to future runners (like me), he retorted: Learn to suffer without complaining. I tried it. It actually wasn't too bad, especially as I took a more forested route than the outward way, but this meant a lot of time in the shade. The temperature oscillated between 10°C in the forest midst, to 16°C in the full sunshine.

It was getting on towards four o'clock in the afternoon when avid geologist Heinrich McDuff finally discovered some black chernozem soil he'd been looking for since the death of his mongoloid hamster, Simon, and I, my Sartorius muscles throbbing in response to the harsh meteorological conditions, found his trail blocked by a horse with proctological problems of a pronounced propensity. I managed to slam on brakes just as I hit a putrid pile of equine excrement, which left my back covered and smelling. The rider of said equinal bestiality smirked as she gloated openly while I rode sedately past. I am not a fan of horse riders.

The last ten kilometres, or so, before I entered the confines of Chur, saw me quite alone, and getting steadily colder. The temperature was dropping markedly as the sun sank behind the mountains. I decided I'd set the dogs on Mother Nature, if ever I got the chance, and pushed my way forward, dreaming of a glass of fine red South African wine when I eventually arrived home.
The distance I covered was either just above, or ever-so-slightly below, 70 km, whether you believe the my Garmin GPS gadget, or the bike computer. Nevertheless, it was a good ride, and I felt great when I arrived home, stopping off first in Café Arcas for a swift pint (beer, not wine).

My efforts were rewarded with a long, hot bath and the noted South African red. I'd expended about 2600 kcals, covered around 70 kms, and certainly improved the tone of my leg muscles for cycling, and hopefully also for future running. I am now very keen to do my planned Zürich-Chur journey by mountain bike again, but this will have to be co-ordinated with the weather.

I suppose one could say, that, after running (there is no passion as intense as this for me), my two greatest sport enjoyments are workouts in gym and my cycling. I've done cycling on and off for many years here in Switzerland, especially down in Carona, but I find, now that I am temporarily unable to run, this is, too, a most satisfying way of keeping fit, unlike Bob, Jill and Heinrich above. I may just refrain from subjecting myself to a frontal lobotomy, as long as I can find gratification in cycling.

For this coming weekend, the long-range forecast is somewhat inclement, but who knows what might transpire, and perhaps I will be on my metallic steed once again.

Pumping iron - sounds impressive - 2

2008-03-07T08:32:00.000+01:00

It's been a while since I last posted here. Kurt's been in our holiday house in Carona again - some of the renovations to the house started this week, namely in the downstairs bathroom, toilet and passage. He went down with a builder friend of ours, Giuliano, and they apparently did quite a lot of work down there. These are early stages, and there is a long way to go, but at least the work has started. He's due back today to attend a family funeral this afternoon - a deceased cousin.

In his absence, I've been looking after the business by myself. It hasn't been particularly busy, but enough to keep me going at a constant rate. There was a very interesting case involving a 101-year-old woman who died in New York, and wants to be buried in St. Moritz. I'm sorting it all out now, and have constant contact with lawyers and undertakers in The Big Apple. I enjoy these kind of cases, as they're different to the run-of-the-mill deaths we see every day.

The weather took a turn for the worse at the weekend, and winter has returned with blizzards and freezing conditions again, after two wonderful weeks of spring weather beforehand. There are too many cold months in Europe for my liking. I do miss the couple of minutes of winter in Durban. I remember going to university in Durban in the middle of winter with not even a jumper on!!!!!

Having been alone in the business this week, I haven't really had time (or inclination) to go to gym the last three days. I'll be glad when Kurt is back, because at least then I can go to gym with a clear conscience, and not have to worry about that mobile 'phone ringing, right when 140 kg are poised above my head!!!!! - not quite, but you know what I mean.

Cycling has also been shelved for the same reason, and also because of the cold conditions - running in the frozen wastelands is one thing I can sort-of cope with, but cycling in an Arctic environment is not my idea of fun. Things are set to improve slightly by the weekend, and a ride may be on the cards for Sunday, but from Monday, it's all rain/snow again.

I couldn't end this off without mention of my leg. Needless to say, after a 3,6-km run on the treadmill at gym last Sunday, there is no way I will run again until the end of April - a promise I have made myself. My leg hurt so much after Sunday's attempt, that I think I have finally learnt to be sensible, and just stop running for two months to give the inflammation time to subside, and the tendon time to heal. I've also struck up contact with a runner from Kosovo who has a similar ailment, and it's interesting to discuss treatments and therapies with someone who has almost the same problem. I know misery loves company, but I think in this case it's warranted.

The 2008 Marathon des Sables starts on 30th March, and the last stage is on 5th April. I shall be following it eagerly on the Internet (http://www.darbaroud.com/index_uk.php) and on TV on Eurosport. Apparently it's the longest and hardest race ever this year, covering some 245,3 km in various stages, the longest being around 80 km, with 850 competitors. When you think: that's about 6 full marathons each day for six days!!!!! Not bad going. And then, over small mountains, through tens of kilometres of dunes, over wadis and djebels and ergs (I love those words), sleeping in Berber tents, enduring temperatures varying from 45°C during the day to 5°C at night, possible sandstorms, camel spiders which run faster than man, snakes, horrible beetles that come out of the sand at night, the French, and many other such adversities. All sounds wonderful, and makes it the most gruelling foot race in the world. Why, then, am I so obsessed with doing it, when I could stick to a nice little road marathon in beautiful Switzerland? Well, there are several reasons, all of them valid and true for me, but we'll go into that another time.

This afternoon, gym again - I can hardly wait. Until then, the bodies are starting to come in - the joy of death.

Mountain Biking - alternate training 1

2008-02-27T01:10:00.000+01:00

It's still officially winter in Europe, but on Sunday, spring-like temperatures were forecast, with a maximum in Chur of 20°C expected. With this infamous leg injury of mine still plaguing me, I decided last week, it was time I started doing so-called cross-training - i.e. other forms of training that will not have an adverse effect on my Iliopsoas tendon. Having bought the mountain bike, in the photo to the left, in 2006, and having not ridden it since October 2007, the warm weather predicted was quite conducive to training the body on wheels.

I set off about 11 o'clock on Sunday morning, heading in the general direction of Liechtenstein. Infamous for my over-doing things - allegedly - I thought I'd best not go too far the first day of cycling this year. However, when I set my mind to something, not much can change it, and I found myself deciding to do that which I really wanted to do. A while ago, when my leg started playing up, I decided to plan out a route for a long run from the north of Liechtenstein back to Chur - this is/was to be my first long run, at a distance of about 52 km. Of course, the run itself has had to be shelved until my injury heals, but I was pretty keen to cycle the route on Sunday. When I actually run it, I'll take the train to a place called Haag, just across the border in Switzerland, opposite Leichtenstein, across the Rhein. On my bike, though, I set off along the Rhein from Chur, along a track I have run and cycled before many times. It follows the Rhein through places like Zizers, Landquart, Bad Ragaz and finally Sargans, before turning northwards still along the Rhein towards canton St. Gallen and Liechtenstein.

The promise of perfect weather was fulfilled, and I was dressed in my summer running gear, complete with Garmin GPS wrist set, and my new and yellow wrist weather station. Here is a picture of the weather station:

and was thus closely monitoring all conditions, both bodily and atmospheric.

My Garmin GPS looks like this:

My bike's computer was also working, and I had my small digital camera with me. I had my iPod with me as well, but decided against using it, as I so enjoyed the sounds of nature, as I whizzed along the tracks and roads towards the small principality of Liechtenstein, currently rocked by a bank scandal!!!! I felt on top of the world, and had not one ache or pain.

In parts, the cycle track was tarred, and headed slightly downhill. I was able to increase my speed to about 50 kph at one stage, which felt invigorating, but I prefer not to ride so fast for fear of hitting a rock, or something, and taking a tumble - I do not want anymore injuries!!!!!!

As the track turned north, I decided not to ride all the way to Haag, but, instead, to cross the Rhein from Switzerland to southern Liechtenstein, where lies a beautiful village called Balzers, with its landmark being a majestic castle (by the way, all the photographs can be seen on my Flickr.com website). I crossed into the mini-country, and had a short rest, while admiring the view. There are no border formalities between the two countries, as Liechtenstein's foreign affairs and defence are conducted by the Swiss authorities (in fact, all of Switzerland's borders with neighbouring countries will be eliminated on 1st November this year; although not a member of the EU, our country has signed the Schengen Agreement, and the borders will come down in autumn. It will be interesting to see if the feared invasion of hoardes of eastern Europeans will actually occur then!!!!!).

Once in Liechtenstein, I headed towards the track which forms part of my planned running route, and, from then on, I was on it all the way back to Chur. This track goes across the border again back into Switzerland, just outside of Blazers, and then over a pass known as St. Luzisteig, which is quite an active military area - not quite the French Foreign Legion, but the Swiss Army will do for now.

I've travelled over this pass several times by car, but had forgotten how steep it is, especially by bike and/or foot. Nevertheless, I still maintained a steady pace as I made my way up the pass, taking a few breaks on the way - to admire the scenery!!!!!! When I finally arrived at the top, I was sweating profusely, and was glad of the summer clothes, and the temperature up there of a few degrees less than the 27,2°C I recorded in Balzers!!!!!!

From here, I set off along tracks and side roads above the picturesque village of Maienfeld, through the region where the legendary Heidi is purported to have lived (it's now a huge tourist industry, with hotels, restaurants and a million Japanese tourists a day (almost)). Along the undulating track, I cycled through the vineyard area of our canton, places like Jenins and Malans, and finally behind Landquart to Igis, where I had a break of about ten minutes to massage my right thigh, which had become subjected to an annoying bout of cramp.

From Igis, it was back to Zizers and down to the track along the Rhein again, for the finally leg back to Chur. Feeling ecstatic, I arrived at home around 15:45 hours (3.45 p.m.). I had travelled almost 70 km (so much for a short ride on the first day!!!!!), and had expended 3084 kcals of energy. It had really been a fantastic ride, and I felt great. My rear end did feel a tad tender, but that will improve, the more I ride. There was no apparent effect on my Iliopsoas tendon, although the dull ache from the injury was ever-present.

I have done rides like this before, even once from Zürich back to Chur (125 km), and down in Carona, we often do the 70-km giro del lago (route around the lake, through Italia). I shall try to use every opportunity I get to go for long rides, especially until my leg heals and I can run again. I do enjoy riding very much indeed; it's just that my greatest passion is getting around on my own two feet.

Medical update - it worsens!!!

2008-02-21T02:09:00.000+01:00

Before I whinge, let me update things over the last week or so.

Today, my new gadget arrived by post from the UK. It's a sort-of watch thing, which measures, amongst other things, air temperature, pressure and wind speed (has a tiny little anemometer which one can raise, and it measures wind velocity). It also tells the time, incises blisters, cures tendinitis, and changes the toilet roll in the loo when it's finished!!!!! I am so excited about it, and wore it today on the way down to the post office - the thing is, my new toy is bright yellow, and does attract the odd stare from the ignorant. On the MdS, I'll be a fountain of information, of that I am sure. Of course, with all this electronic gadgetry I wear, I'll probably be exhausted by the first check point. Ah, but on the long stretch (75 km), which involves a night run, I'll also be an illuminating example of athleticism and altruism as I glow in the dark, showing folk, for hundreds of kilometres around me, the way to the final bivouac. The funny thing about this instrument (called a WindPro) is, though, that I ordered it from the UK, only to find, that it is made right here in Switzerland!!!!!!! If only I had known, I could have saved a huge amount on postage and customs duty!!!!

With Kurt down in Carona for a week, I've been busy running the business on my own, and also going to gym most days. I've created new workout programmes for myself, based mainly on core fitness, and involving more stamina workouts, than actual bodybuilding as such. I read a wise article recently pertaining to gym for runners, and the motto is basically 3 sets of 20 reps per exercise, and if you can't do 20, then the weight is too high. I'm really feeling the results after three weeks of diligent training - gone are my ideas of being a middle-aged (I HATE that term) Arnold Schwarzenegger, and am now more interested in becoming mean like a Marine, or lean and lanky like a légionnaire. Do NOT mention the term "fantasy world"!!!! Big grin.

I took by mountain bike in to the bike shop near us today to have a good service. Spring is most definitely in the air, and, if I can't run, then I will cycle as soon as it's warm enough (which could be this weekend, when the temperature is expected to reach 15 to 17°C here in Chur!!!!). As soon as I can, I shall buy myself some new mountain boots, and start hiking in the mountains above Chur a lot more. All these alternatives to running, when all I want to do is RUN!!!!!

I've been diligently taking my Ecofénac tablets each night before bed. I must say, they do reduce the discomfort of the Iliopsoas Tendinitis, but it is also a very strong med which can have horrible side-effects on the kidneys and stomach. Fortunately, I have had no adverse effects as yet, but I've been swallowing the pills for well over a month now, and I have decided it's time to stop. I have a new box of my happy pills for emergencies, but I shall now quit them. This morning was the first morning after a med-free night, and, whilst I could feel the tenderness in my upper leg, it was not unbearable, which is a good sign.

Just before lunch today, I had my second appointment with my new sports doctor, Dr. Ehrler. I really like this guy, and feel confident in going to him. He had asked me to bring my running shoes along so he could check them (shows he knows what running is all about), and confirmed, that I have an excellent pair of shoes (Nike, of course), which suit my feet and running form perfectly.

Since last week's little chat, he has received the DVD of the images from the MRI I had done of my torso and legs just after Christmas. He showed me on the screen what it's all about. It is a lot worse than just tendinitis of the Iliopsoas insertion point on the lesser trochanter of the femur bone. That, with time, will heal, and will hopefully give me no more trouble (a lot of my current workouts at gym are aimed at strengthening that entire region so, that by the time I get back to running, I will have a strong muscle base to support my running). The bigger problem is, that I have the initial stages of arthrosis (as opposed to arthritis) in the "hip-joint". It's evident mostly in the right leg, but there are traces of it in the left as well. Now, the big question, which no one can answer, is: when did it start? Was it caused by my running, or was it there before, and the MRI due to the tendinitis brought it to light? It's impossible to answer this question. The fact is, that I do have arthrosis, albeit in the incipient stages. How fast, and how far, it develops, is anyone's guess. The pain I am experiencing in my right leg (and also, less intensively, in my left one), is obviously from both ailments, and (maybe it's just my mind convincing me of it) I am now able to separate the two sources of discomfort in my leg.

The big question he posed to me today is, if I ever will be able to run again. This scared the hell out of me. The worst-case scenario is, that the arthrosis develops, resulting in the necessity of a future hip-replacement. If this happens, then I can forget the Marathon des Sables. Whilst I rest from running, thanks to the neighbouring tendinitis, the stress on the arthrotic region will also be lessened. The big test will come once the tendinitis is cured, and I can, theoterically, run again. The arthrosis is situated both on the head of the femur, and on the "hip bone" just above it. It's a very small area at the moment, but it is most definitely there - I'd rather it weren't there. Running, of course, produces an enormous amount of stress and pressure on this very region, and only time will tell, if my skeletal ailment will withstand the brunt of rapid forward perambulation. (This is becoming more melodramatic than one of those US TV sitcoms - maybe I should write this in play form, and submit it to one of those ridiculous networks that churn out all that televisual garbage!!!!!!).

I forgot to ask the good doctor today if the two maladies are connected - i.e., could the arthrosis have caused the tendinitis, or are they mutually exclusive? I shall find out next time I see him.

The next step? He's now going to consult with an orthopaedic surgeon, and discuss the possibility of an arthroscopy. This involves the insertion of one of those "tool boxes" on the end of a cable, which is surgically inserted into the recalcitrant region, and the gunge can be cleaned up - if this would be a permanent solution, is also not certain, but, damnit, I'm happy to give it a try. In case I haven't mentioned, I want to RUN!!!!!!! The doc will contact me as soon as he hears anything. In the meantime, I sent an e-mail to him this afternoon, asking him, if I can have a copy of the MRI DVD - that stuff fascinates me, and I would love to have intimate pictures of my own body, albeit only from the nether regions thereof!!!!!!

So, that's where I am, now. The waiting continues, and the running is on hold. I have cancelled my participation on the marathons for which I had registered - for Paris, I lose the money, but I had insurances for Zürich and Bern, and Dr. Hasler has given me a medical certificate as proof of my inability to run - I don't get the money back, but my participation on both, for 2009, is guaranteed (presuming I still have my own hip by then!!!!!).

I'm not a happy bunny (I hate that expression - I got it from the book of a chappy who ran the MdS last year, and it's stuck) at the moment. I'm having a rest day from gym today (don't want to cause any more tendons to react to stress - gosh, they're a bunch of wallies), and will spend a couple of hours in my wellness complex at Bener Park (where I have a subscription), getting used to the heat, so I'll be ready for the MdS (no, there is no other subject in my mind!!!!!!!).

Despite the current somewhat despondent vein, I shall not give up hope of running the MdS in 2010. It's too great a goal, and too intense a passion, for something like arthrosis to render untenable. I've been given the worst-case scenario, but this doesn't have to be. My doctor has just pointed out the possibilities, and, as he stressed, this is not necessarily the way my situation will inevitably go. The possible arthroscopy could be successful. There are many factors and many possibilities. I guess it's the unknown that is causing my melancholy right now. I know, if the worst comes to the worst, I can still ride my mountain bike, hike in the mountains, swim, and be healthy - but, somehow, these all seem so insignificant when compared to my running and the MdS. I do have the inner strength to cope with the worst-case scenario (at least, I hope I do), but I'd rather not have to do so.

This is long-winded, but putting down my thoughts on the laptop screen somehow helps me put it all into focus and organise my feelings. It's not as though I have been diagnosed with cancer or heart problems; yet, given my world, it's as devastating as if I had been. It's all relative. I may be chronologically 51 years old, but I feel 31 - now if only my body would react accordingly!!!!!!

Medical update - the definitive

2008-02-13T23:42:00.000+01:00

I have mentioned about my injury in other blogs, but thought I'd open a thread dedicated to it, in case there are others with the same problem, and we can air our concerns here.

Just to recapitulate - in about November last year (I started running in May 2007, but in earnest from September 2007), I started noticing a dull ache, deep within my upper right leg. I feared a stress fracture, and sought medical advice from my orthopaedic specialist. After all sorts of misdiagnoses and meds, it was finally ascertained, from a bone scan and MRI, that I have a highly inflammed Iliopsoas tendon at the point where the Iliacus and Psoas muscles join the femur bone at the lesser Trochanter.

The pain itself has been excrutiating at times, to the extent, that I have cried out in agony every so often. When actually running most of the time, the pain would appear to diminish; upon immediate cessation of running, my upper leg would become stiff and hurt like hell; further perambulation was only possible with limping. Getting up from a bed or chair was also very tedious.

About three weeks ago, my specialist finally convinced me to have a break from running of any form, take Ecofénac (a strong anti-inflammatory medication), and, in fact cease any sport or activity to do with the legs (other than normal walking). Reluctantly, I did as he suggested, and the pain subsided to negligible. On Thursday last week, I began running again, admittedly probably too far after the lay-off I'd had, and the pain came back with a vengeance.

Yesterday, in utter desperation, I did an Internet search for sports doctors in Switzerland, and discovered, that there is actually a medical practice right here in Chur, staffed by doctors who are affiliated with the support group for the Swiss Olympic Team. I immediately telephoned for an appointment, and got one at 11 o'clock today.

It turned out to be the best (and hardest) decision I would make. Whilst my orthopaedic specialist is a wonderful and trustworthy man, he is getting on, and doesn't actually treat sports injuries per se anymore, other than me. He's more specialised in rheumatology and that area. The young doctor I saw today, actually runs himself, is sporty and very active, and knew immediately what I was talking about. He gave me a very thorough examination, finally confirming the diagnosis of Iliopsoas Tendinitis, but also added, that the whole Iliopsoas muscle group on my right side is injured. What he cannot understand, is why it is confined to the right side, and that the left is injury-free. He checked my gait and all sorts of other things, and found absolutely everything to be in perfect order.

I have to see him again in a week's time, and take along my Nike running shoes with me, so he can check to see if the problem might lie in them!!!!! - but, here again, why only on the one side???? It is an enigma.

The next step (which hurt like merry hell when he told me) - no running until early summer!!!!!!!! How can you tell that to a runner???? It's vicious.

He explained to me, that only full rest from running will allow the muscle time to heal. The runs I did last week make no difference at all, because even if I had waited another month, and ran a mere 5 km, the pain would have returned. The muscle itself is actually inflamed up to the insertion points on the spine at the intervertebral discs T12 to L4. Further running would only exacerbate the injury, and could eventually cause permanent damage to the muscle. Further running would be highly foolish.

Subsequently, no running for me until at least early July. I haven't really had time yet to assimilate the impact of this upon my immediate future, bearing in mind, that running has become an almost obsessive passion in my life, taking up a lot of my spare time and energy (physical and mental).

However, a dark cloud usually has a silver lining, and this bright side is, that I may most definitely (and MUST) get involved in cross-training, the relevant activities for me being cycling, swimming and aqua-jogging. I forgot to ask, if I may partake in skiing and mountain hiking (I'll ask him next week), both of which, additionally, will assist in keeping up my fitness level, and building stamina for the final goal - the Marathon des Sables in 2010 (by the way, the doctor was very interested in my decision to take part in this race, and knew of it immediately when I mentioned it). He also encouraged me to keep up my workouts at gym, and build up a solid set of core muscles for my return to running in summer, all of which will have obvious advantages for future injury prevention.

So, there it is. I'm trying to be philosophical about it all, accepting my injury, and preparing to work on my recovery through alternative activities, particularly mountain hiking (when the snow melts), mountain biking and gym workouts. However, no amount of rationalisation or philosophising will detract from the fact, that I cannot run for another four to five months. I doubt I will lose my passion for the sport, because it is far too deep and ingrained within me to simply vanish; it's the furtration of not being able to actually DO it, that is difficult. I'm not the most patient of people when it comes to being denied something that means so very much to me (I'm the epitome of patience when it comes to paying tax bills; I'm the antithesis of patience when a cessation of running is required).

With regard to my participation in the MdS, I still have two years (minus four months of non-training) ahead of me before it's my turn to enter the Sahara Desert, so that shouldn't have much of a bearing on the race for me. My training blogs and reports are going to be zero for running, and more concentrated on other activities.

If anyone else has this problem, too, I'd be pleased to hear from you in terms of sharing experiences, etc. Other than that, my energies will now be focussed more on alternative training (which won't hurt at all; au contraire) and healing my right-side Iliopsoas muscle group.

Cheers,
Craig-with-right-leg-for-sale

Medical Update - back and forth 4

2008-02-13T03:37:00.000+01:00

Well, it looks like the Iliopsoas Tendinitis is back again. I shall refrain from expletives, but I guess everyone can imagine what they would be, and justified. To top it all, I have a cold, but, luckily, not the 'flu type as most seem to have contracted this winter, but rather a snotty nose and sneezing (not even the precursory sore throat this time - maybe my immune system is stronger than I thought!!!!). As a precaution, however, I am dosing myself (medicinally, of course) with a stiff single malt.

Today, I did some research using the Swiss telephone book on DVD, and I discovered, that there is a new centre here in tiny Chur, which is affiliated to the Swiss Olympic doctors - it's a medicinal sports centre right here in the Alps!!!! Wow, why was I not informed of this before????? Now, whilst I have the utmost faith in my orthopaedic specialist, he is getting on in years, and we just don't seem to be making headway in my fight with the ailing tendon. Consequently, I contacted a doctor at this medical sports centre today, and I have an appointment for 11 o'clock tomorrow!!!!!!! I am wildly excited, and hope, that this is the start of my real healing.

I have desisted from running and gym today - not only because I have a cold - and will avail myself of the latest sports medicine on the morrow. Until then, I drink single malt!!!!!!

Training towards the MdS 2010 - 8

2008-02-12T00:45:00.000+01:00

After several weeks of no training, I got back into it whilst in Carona. I actually stayed in our holiday house in the village until today, instead of the planned return on Saturday, and used the opportunity to run various routes along the shores of Lago di Lugano. It was absolutely beautiful. The weather was perfect, with brilliantly sunny skies and temperatures of around 14°C - couldn't be better for running.

I chose various routes, each of them around 10 to 12 km, and ran fairly moderately at all times. My Iliopsoas Tendinitis injury spot seemed to hold up to the running, although I did feel some tenderness after each run. I also did a lot of training at gym, and have made a point of working out my core muscles (obliques, abs, lower back), and stretching as well. I find that the Cobra stretching routine helps a lot with stretching the inner core muscles, and I hope this will stand me in good stead.

I arrived back home in Chur today around midday today (Monday), and find, that I am limping again - not badly, but noticeably - and this is very annoying. I'm still taking Ecofénac every evening before bed, and also bought some Ibuprofen down in Lugano, which I have started to take during the day. Something I was very aware of yesterday after my run, was, that as soon as I stopped running, my leg became stiff very quickly. Perhaps I need to increase my stretching exercises.

I read in one of my books on ultrarunning, that Glucosamine helps in joint and tendon management, and I bought a bottle of it from a chemist in Lugano. Coupled with all my other vitamins and minerals that I take on a daily basis, I am hoping, that this will be of benefit in my fight against the obviously-not-yet-over injury!!!!!

I'm not running today, or gymming for that matter, but hope to be back at it tomorrow. I really am getting very tired of all this, because all I want to do, is to get out there and start running long distances. Oh, my rucksack (New Balance) from Darbaroud arrived today by post, and I am dying to use it!!!!! It'll be good training for the MdS!!! I shall spend some time this evening doing good stretching exercises, with the hope, that this will give me the chance to be able to run well tomorrow.

Training towards the MdS 2010 - 7

2008-02-08T04:42:00.000+01:00

I'm back, and I'm happy!!!!! All those weeks of waiting until my Iliopsoas Tendinitis cleared, have finally come to an end. Today I ran 9,47 km, and yesterday 3,8 km. My injury spot is a little tender today, but it's not the debilitating pain I experienced before. Suddenly I feel I have my life back again, and I can look forward to running, marathons, ultras and, most importantly, the MdS in 2010.

On Monday last, I had another appointment with Dr. Hasler, and he was very happy with the progress I am making. He gave me another Corticosteroid injection (which, for some reason, hurt like bloody hell), and suggested I stay off the running until this weekend. He threatened me with my life, if I ran more than 10 km at a time for the next few weeks, which I found a fair distance, considering I hadn't run for weeks.

On Tuesday, I came down, alone, to our holiday house in Carona, in the south of Switzerland, near the town of Lugano. Due to staff problems in our business, we still cannot come down together. After not having had a break since the beginning of January, and having had 60 bodies since then, a break from it all was most called-for. I set off south on the two-hour motoring journey through the Alps, very happy to finally having the chance to escape death for a while. There had been a lot of snow over the weekend in the south, and in the Alps between Chur and Carona, so the scenery on the way was a winter wonderland. I took photos on the way, and will upload them to my flickr.com site as soon as I get back to Chur (here in Carona, we are not setup for speedy Internet connection, and any access is via an analogue telephone system - slow, at the best of times).

I've been working out in gym five days a week lately, and I am feeling great again on that score. Not having been running, I had the time. However, now that I am back into my favourite passion, I can see, that I am going to have to make time for gym, and indeed, early in the morning. I'm not much of an early-morning person, but a little discipline is all I need to get me up three morning's a week and into the gym. At least, then, I shall have the late afternoons free for running, and I can do an extra gym session at a reasonable hour at the weekends. Well, that's the theory - we'll see if I can implement it.

The weather here in the south has been spectacular since I've been here - deep blue skies, snow still lying all around (although melting quickly), and temperatures during the day of up to 16°C. I've been to gym three times already (I have a subscription to a fantastic gym here in Lugano, as well as the one in Chur), and feel good. Yesterday, I decided I would try out the treadmill. It's not quite the weekend, but what the hell do a few days matter. I did 3,8 km, and discovered something - my running form on the treadmill is very different to that I have on tracks and roads, in that my forward foot comes down at the front, whereas on the road, it's more towards the heel. Now, considering that my Iliopsoas Tendinitis started at the beginning of winter (November, here) when I began doing more treadmill work instead of outside, I've come up with the theory, that this is the cause of my injury. Even yesterday on the treadmill, I noticed, that my injury spot was a little tender when I ran as I am wont to do on the treadmill; I immediately made a point of coming down on my heel instead, and the tension was relieved. Methinks I have have found something here. I had no pain, but rather a tenderness in the injury spot.

This morning, I woke, full of excitement about the prospect of running properly again. After reading several chapters of a large book I have on the Marathon des Sables, I finally rose at around 10:45 a.m. (what luxury), and, by midday, was down at the lake (Lago di Lugano) in Morcote, and ready for a five-kilometre slow run. I was very good, and did lots of stretching first, before starting all my electronic equipment, and set off towards Melide long the road next to the lake shore. I deliberately kept my pace slower than usual (my final average pace was 5'15" per kilometre, which, for me, is amazingly slow), and had a really great run. The tension in the region of the recalcitrant tendon was ever-present, but I did not have any pain. At the 2,5-km point, I decided not to turn around, but to go further, as I was enjoying it so much. Here, too, I had my small digital camera with me, and snapped off a lot of shots on the way, which I will, likewise, upload when I am back in Chur. When I finally returned to the car, I had covered 9.4 km, and I was in my element. Not exactly a marathon, but, after nearly two months of hardly any running at all, I was pretty proud of myself. As I sit here typing this, the tendon in question is still a little tense, despite earlier icing, but I put this down to the treadmill from yesterday. Tomorrow I shall be out on the road again to test my legs, and see how I really am.

Running most certainly is a true passion in my life. Yesterday, as I started off on the treadmill (even thought I HATE that thing), I suddenly felt all those wonderful emotions associated with running again, and the tears started welling up beyond belief. It made me realise, just how much this sport means to me.

I'm now very excited about tomorrow and my next run, and I just hope, that I am finally ready to get back into training again. I've had to cancel my participation on the Paris and Zürich maras, due to no training, but have planned others for later on in summer and autumn.

I love running so much.

The Best Laid Plans Of Mice And Men - 1

2008-01-30T18:45:00.000+01:00

Whilst bollock-sweating in the sauna yestereve after gym, I decided to pass the time, by mentally planning my running events for the next year or so. Naturally, all is contingent upon my getting back into a full training programm once my leg is fully healed.

Plans, of course, are not necessarily cast in iron, so changes are very possible, two of the major factors in this respect being future injuries, and, of course, finances!!!!

Anyway, here goes:

2008

2nd March - Semi-Marathon de Paris - had to cancel because of the leg injury.

20th April - International Zürich Marathon - ditto.

26th April - Frühlingslauf, Thusis - Chur. 25 km.

10th May - Grand Prix Bern, Bern. 16 km through the town.

June - sometime in June, I plan to do a solo run of about 50 km from the north of Liechtenstein, along the Rhein, over St. Luzisteig, and back to Chur through the Bündner Herrschaft.

27th July - Königsschlösser-Romantik Marathon, Füssen, Germany. This will be my first full marathon, seeing as how Zürich in April is not to be for me. Also known as the King Ludwig Marathon. I know this area, and it is extremely picturesque, lying about a two-hour's drive from Chur.

http://www.koenigludwigmarathon.de/

August - sometime in August, I want to try a solo run, with rucksack and provisions, from Zürich back to Chur, a distance of about 125 km. I'd do it over two days, although I am already fantasising about trying it in one, even if I have to run late into the evening. Dreams, but we will see.

27/28th September - the Berlin Marathon. Apparently one of the best marathons in continental Europe, and highly recommended.

http://www.real-berlin-marathon.com/events/berlin_marathon/2008/

November - early November - Maratona Ticino in Locarno. I ran the half-mara in 2007, and would be keen to do the full one in 2008. Only problem is, that it's a double loop, and I am not too keen on that. Maybe I will just do the half-mara on this one.

http://www.maratona-ticino.ch/index_en.htm

14th December - 32. Zürcher Silvesterlauf in Zürich. 8 km through the city - a 4 x 2-km loop. Back to those loops again (!!!!), but it is a great run.

http://www.laufkalender.ch/cgi-bin/laufkalender.pl?language=1&fs=2&page=weiterleiten&mode=homepage&lid=122562

2009

March - Semi-Marathon de Paris - this time, I'm not missing it!!!!!!

April - International Zürich Marathon - ditto!!!!!

September - Kalahari Augrabies Extreme Marathon in South Africa. 250 km, very similar to the Marathon des Sables. A must-do as a "gentle warm-up" for the MdS.

http://www.extrememarathons.com/augrabies/

2010

March/April - FINALLY - the Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert of Morocco!!!!! This is the ultimate.

http://www.darbaroud.com/index_uk.php

Of course, there will be other races and lots of training. Well, that's the plan. Now to put it in to action.

Medical Update - back and forth 3

2008-01-29T11:09:00.000+01:00

It's been a week since I last blogged. I had hoped by now, that I would have good news about my running. Hmmm? Good news I do, indeed, have, but not yet about running.

The fact is, my Ilipsoas tendon is improving markedly; I have no pain whatsoever anymore, and can walk without a limp. It really feels great, and I feel the need to get out there and RUN!!!!! However, I went for my second corticosteroid injection from Dr. Hasler yesterday, and we had a chat about my running. My disappointment at what he said, must have been very evident. Whilst he's very happy with the progress I have made, he feels, that a return to running at the end of this week would be foolish, as the tendon is still very tender, and stressing it with running could possibly cause a relapse, which would knock me back another several weeks/months. Logically, then, I should further desist from running for another two weeks. I know he's right, but I felt very low after that news. I have got used to the idea since then, though, and am now HOPING for a return to running from Saturday, 9th February. I see the good doc again next Monday, and trust his news for me will be what I want to hear!!!!!

In the meantime, I have been putting in a lot of time at my gym, doing upper-body and core workouts (not allowed to do legs, yet), and, I have to say, I feel great, and will make sure I keep up the workouts even when I do start running again. Instead of like before, when I was pushing to increase my muscles in the face of genetic impossibility, I am now doing workouts with stamina in mind - lower weights and many more repetitions - as well as concentrating on building up my lower back, abs and obliques, all of which will stand me in good stead when I am on my feet again. It's a good feeling

So, another two weeks of no running. OK, I'll be good and stick to the doc's orders!!!! Of course, this precludes, that I will not have enough time to train for the Zürich International Marathon (would have been my first full mara) on 20th April, let alone the Paris events. Fortunately, when I registered and paid for Zürich, I also took out an insurance against injury, so my place in the 2008 event will now be put forward to 2009. As regards Paris, however, I failed to do the same, so lose a rather substantial amount of Euros on that score - one lives and learns!!!!!! This morning I wrote to both organisations, cancelling my participation, and it hurt like merry hell to do so, but I shall be sensible.

Looking on the bright side, there is a nice 25-kilometre race from Thusis to Chur here in our canton on 26th April, which I will (hopefully) attend; I have also registered for the GP Bern, which is a 10-mile (16-km) race through the centre of our nation's capital city on 10th May. And there are many more marathons coming up in summer and autumn, so I shall take my pick of a few of these, and register, but not until I am sure, that my tendon is in perfect working order!!!!!!!

Thank goodness Paris and Zürich will be there next year, because, other than the MdS in 2010, these were the "biggies" for me this year. C'est la vie.

Power Music that motivates me

2008-01-23T00:03:00.000+01:00

Since I've had my 2GB iPod Nano, I've been uploading songs that inspire me when I run, and now have quite a selection. I already have a playlist called "Morocco", ready for the MdS in 2010!!!

I have a few favourites which I listen to often when I run (and when not), and I thought I'd list them here, with their YouTube links in case anyone wants to listen to them.

Alphaville: Sounds Like a Melody (my absolute favourite at the moment)
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=xxmBD904pVU

Alphaville: Forever Young
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=n7CuJ8cR9sg

Peter Schilling: Major Tom
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=KoidJVAMAVE&feature=related

There are many others, but these are my favourites, and I try to listen to them at the end of a race or training (in the past tense - I'm still off my feet for another eight days). They give me some kind of deep energy as I race for the finishing line or simply arriving home.

Medical Update - back and forth 2

2008-01-22T05:15:00.000+01:00

My leg seems to be healing!!!!! On Sunday and today, I had very little pain and did not have to use crutches at all. I was very tempted to go running this evening, but thought I'd wait first, to discuss it with Dr. Hasler during my appointment at 1 o'clock this afternoon.

The medical man was very pleased with the bone scan images, and also told me, that the blood tests were all negative, as well as kidney and liver tests from the blood. That's a good sign. The injury is most definitely localised in the upper leg where the Iliopsoas muscles insert into the Femur.

The procedure is now this: continue, with no breaks, on Ecofénac 150 as well as a "stomach protection" med (Ecofénac is apparently a killer on the stomach!!!). I received a corticosteroid injection in the butt. No running/stretching/cycling/swimming until the 31st January, and then we will re-examine the situation. I receive a second cortisone injection on Monday next week. He is quite confident that all will be well by the end of the month.

The Semi-Marathon de Paris is definitely out, but the Zürich (full) mara could very well be on, but with a slower pace than originally intended - I had hope for 3h45', but will reduce this to 4 hours or even slower - Zürich will be there next year, too, and I can go for a faster time then.

Anticipating a quck recovery, and good re-introduction to training, I have made a list of several marathons I'd like to run this year; however, all being well, I shall only choose two (including, hopefully, Zürich), and perhaps three half-marathons, plus my planned solo run from Zürich to Chur (about 125 km) with rucksack.

I'm very excited again, and feel motivated, especially as the pain has subsided markedly, and the results were encouraging. Here's hoping. I shall really be good for the rest of the month, and only train my upper body. I shall have to watch my calorific intake as I won't be burning many calories now - vineyard owners all over the world will have a sleepless night!!!!!

We had a strongish earthquake in Chur this evening. It was certainly the strongest I have felt, and we've had a few here over the years. It registered 4,2 on the Richter Scale - not Tsunami-generating stuff, but scary nonetheless. The whole house shook twice in succession. The noise was like what I can imagine bombs exploding to sound like - damn frightening. I was sitting in my study at the time, and jumped up and stood under the doorframe in case the whole place came down around me. Kurt was walking to his wellness, and saw the railway lines of the Arosabahn train actually moving in the ground. There is no evident damage in our apartment, and we will inspect the house tomorrow. A 'quake in the early nineties caused some large cracks in the apartment right upstairs.

Tomorrow I am taking the body of a dead Portuguese man down to Zürich Airport for transport back to his homeland. It'll be nice to get out of the business for a morning, even though I am still "doing death".

Medical Update - back and forth

2008-01-19T02:35:00.000+01:00

Well, what a week!!!!! Business-wise, we had far too many bodies in five days for it to be manageable - but we managed. It's been a hell of a week.

My leg/hip problem has taken on saga proportions, and is becoming very interesting (for me and the doctors, at least) indeed. It was diagnosed as Iliopsoas Tendinitis last week. The Iliopsoas is a double muscle which comes from the lower spine, sort of through the hip, and connects with the top of the main thigh bone (the Femur). It’s main function is to assist in raising the knee. The MRI I had, showed inflammation of the insertion point where the Iliopsoas joins the Femur. The meds I was given (Ecofénac 150) should have sorted out the inflammation quickly, but, in fact, the ailment worsened to the extent where I have recently had to resort to crutches for any distance of more than about ten metres, with concomitant pain and leg wobbles!!!!

So, it was back to Dr. Hasler (my orthopaedic specialist) who investigated the whole thing from the beginning again, and came up with the theory, that it might actually be reflective pain coming from inflammation of the Sacroiliac joint in the hip area. To make sure, I was referred to the Nuclear Medicine unit of the Kantonsspital (Cantonal Hospital) here in Chur for a bone scan. This all took place this morning. Kurt dropped me off there at 7:45 a.m., and by 8 o’clock, I was on the gamma-ray scanner table, being injected with a nuclear tracer called Technetium, which is absorbed by the bones, and reveals any skeletal abnormalities to the scanner.

While I was on the table, the ‘phone rang, and the radiologist answered to find Dr. Hasler wanting to find out if they had discovered anything yet about me. The radiologist expressed amazement at this, because Dr. Hasler has a day off today, but wanted to know results as soon as any were available!!!!!

It started off with a ten-minute scan of the hip area, and then I had to wait for two hours while the skeleton absorbed the tracer. I went down to the restaurant in the hospital, which affords the most spectacular views of the Rhein valley and mountains around Chur. I was to drink a lot so that the excess tracer would be flushed out of my body – I did think of wine, but decided I’d better stick with water and coffee.

The two hours went by very quickly. I had taken with me a book I had just bought called Ultramarathon Man by Dean Karnazes. It’s about a man who decides in his thirties, that he wants to run, and, like me, is not just satisfied with marathons, but has to aim for the ultramarathons. In so many ways, I can identify myself with this author, and it’s most gratifying to know, that I am not the only nutter in the world!!!!!

At 10 o’clock, I was back on the gamma-ray table, and the photo shoot began in earnest. First of all, a ten-minute scan of the hip area again, followed by a half-hour full-body scan, and then a scan of the hands alone. I could see the developing images in a screen in front of me – all most interesting!!!!

After that, there was a short wait for processing, and an interview with the nuclear specialist, whose wife had practised for a year at the Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town a while ago. Before he even began discussing things with me, he pointed out, that I must be a very special patient, as Dr. Hasler has never given out his mobile ‘phone number before, nor, indeed, ever insisted upon results being made known to him as soon as they become available. All the staff in the unit also referred to me as “the marathon runner”. I felt so special!!!! Obviously Dr. Hasler had mentioned it in his letter. I did point out, though, that my first full marathon was to have been in Zürich on 20th April, but that I have had to cancel my participation on that due to my not having been able to train enough, thanks to my leg.

Anyway, I had a long chat to the nuclear specialist, and he showed me, that the source of the pain is, indeed, in the leg in the region of the insertion point of the Iliopsoas muscle onto the Femur, but that there could possibly be a small inflammation of the Sacroiliac joint which is not visible in the scan images (I guess the latter is just to support Dr. Hasler!!!!). It was all very interesting indeed. He told me, that if he had his way, he would have me in a cast from toe to hip so that I could not move!!!! – doctor humour, I guess. I tittered a little, and then the casualty people came and took him off to intensive care to have pieces of furniture removed from his skull – one just does not make jokes like that to a runner!!!!!!

On Monday at 1 p.m., I have an appointment with Dr. Hasler, and then we will see where it goes from there. At least, as far as I can see, we know now exactly where the source of the ailment is, and can concentrate the healing process on one area. I’ll keep you informed. There is definitely mini-series-potential in this case!!!!!!! My rôle, of course, will be played by Brad Pitt.

Here is part of the bone scan from the back of my body, which clearly shows the red, inflamed area on the lower right side, corresponding to my problem point. I just hope the healing can be achieved quickly so that I can get back onto my feet and train for the 2010 MdS!!!!

Pumping iron - sounds impressive - 1

2008-01-16T03:45:00.000+01:00

I guess "pumping iron" is part and parcel of training for the MdS, but I thought I'd place it in a separate category.

I had my second day of workouts since my decision to stop running until the Iliopsoas Tendinitis clears up. The ailment is now most definitely affecting both legs. I can't say which is worse at the moment, but I just wish they'd get their collective act together, stop being inflamed, and allow me to run!!!!!!!

I sent my orthopaedic specialist a fax this morning, informing him of my decision to temporarily stop running, and that my left leg was now suffering from the malady. I aslo asked for a repeat prescription of Ecofénac, although I did point out, that the effect of said medication is lessening. I now have an appointment tomorrow evening at 17:30 to see Dr. Hasler.

I miss my running so much, and am sore at heart, that I have to forego my places on the Paris and Zürich marathons in spring - even if the tendinitis clears by then, I would not have had the training, so I'd probably injure myself again, were I to run anyway. I cannot see me participating in any marathons until summer at least. I have been scanning the websites to see which would be suitable, and will list these at a later date.

My workout this evening comprised back, shoulders and abs, and felt good. It's amazing how quickly the body actually does practise muscular dystrophy when it's not working out. I know I am deliberately reducing my weights compared to former days, but take, exempli gratia, one exercise called upright rows. A year ago, I was pushing 35 to 40 kg in this exercise (I know, not Arnold Schwarzenegger standards, but, for me, not bad!!!). Today, I was straining with 15 kg!!!!! OK, straining is exaggerating - I felt it!!!! I probably could have lifted about 22,5 kg, but resisted the temptation due to fear of injury!!!!! I have become very injury conscious. Nonetheless, it was a good workout, gievn the current circumstances.

I can still feel the effects of Sunday's chest/biceps session, but it's a great feeling. The thing is, how to pick up muscle, but reduce fat so that my overall body mass can reduce another three kilograms to my desired weight of 70 kg (I know, weight is not quite the same as mass, but I use the terms loosely). The question is: now that I am pushing weights again, should I take protein drinks/bars to feed the muscles, or not? Protein does result in an increase in body weight. Not too sure what to do. Is there not a simple pill for all this????????????

I recently ordered six books on ultramarathons and/or the MdS, plus the DVD of the 2007 version of the race. They should all arrive this week, and I can hardly wait. I have several books demanding my attention, but I have no desire to delve into them, as I am eagerly in anticipation of the ordered works.

Tomorrow, after the medical appointment, I'm off to Bener Park again for an evening of wellness and, perhaps, swimming. I am tempted to go to gym first and do some tricep workouts, and more abs stuff. Since my renewed interest in weightlifting, I have started doing a lot more abs workouts than ever before. I'll get that six-pack yet, even at my generous age!!!!!!

Stretching is going well, too. I'm slowly getting into a daily routine of it, and it feels good. I had physiotherapy again this morning with Josef, my torture master (in German: Foltermeister), and he is very happy with my decision to desist from running for the time-being. I'm glad someone is happy!!!!!! He keeps encouraging me to take up chess, but then reminds himself, that the more sport I undertake, the longer I will be coming to him, and the sooner it will be, that he can retire. We have a love/hate relationship.

Why did I not discover running when I was about 18 years of age?????????????????????

I had resolved for 2008 not to drink wine during the week. Today was an emotionally tenebrous day, and I am allowing my spirits to be lifted a little with the juice of the grape - fermented lightly, and aged well.

Training towards the MdS 2010 - 6

2008-01-13T16:52:00.001+01:00

Well, if I can't run, then I can still do gym, and workout my upper body. Went off to gym this afternoon, and had a good 1:30 session.

5 minutes warm-up on the stationery cycle
25 minutes full stretching programme
1 hour chest, biceps and abs workout

It really felt good. Until about 18 months ago, I did a lot of weight-lifting, and, whilst I did not achieve the bodily results I had hoped for (I am a hard-gainer, and my bone structure does just not allow for a big muscles!!!!), I did get some good definition. However, around then, things started to go wrong. Disc hernia, shoulder operation, elbow operation, and do on, and I neglected my training. In May 2007, I turned instead to running, and, well.... the rest is documented here.

I enjoy working out very much indeed, but was just getting frustrated with it as I was not getting "big". Today in gym, I looked at myself in one of the mirrors, and thought to myself: "You look like a runner now" - thin!!!!!! It's not a complaint as I want to lose more weight (but fat, not muscle!!!!) for my running when I am able to re-start. However, I have lost the upper-body defintion I had before. Oh, well, one can't have everything, and, until I can run again, I shall concentrate on working out, cycling and swimming.

I realised today, that stretching is most beneficial, and, if I'd done it before, I might not have ended up with this injury I have now. I'm going to try and do a good twenty minutes of stretching (at home) every day from now on. It felt good at gym, but at gym I'd rather work out!!!

So, today I don't feel as usueless as I did yesterday, and it's a great feeling; not nearly as great, though, as running. I miss my running already!!!! Patience, mate!!!!! It'll come back, and this time, I know what to do - slower and stretch!!!!!!!!

Merry Sunday.

Iliopsoas Tendinitis

2008-01-12T20:00:00.000+01:00

After my run on Tuesday, and lower-body workout on Wednesday, my leg/hip has become progressively worse. Alarmingly, it's started in the left leg now, too, but not quite as bad as in the right.

Yesterday (Friday), I decided to go for a short run, but did not get further than about 250 metres before the pain struck again, so violently, that I came to an abrupt halt, and whinced in pain. There was no way I could run home, so walked with a limp. That was the end of my run for Friday. Absolutely pathetic, and I've really had enough of all this.

I've been doing some research this morning, and have found, that the full medical term for my condition is iliopsoas tendinitis. I'm going to have to study some of the more fundamental medical terms associated with the malady, as used in my medical books, because there is a lack of knowledge on my part in some areas. However, the best Internet articles I have found thus far, are these:

http://www.emedicine.com/SPORTS/topic52.htm#Multimediamedia1
http://www.drpribut.com/sports/iliopsoas.html
http://www.physioroom.com/injuries/groin_and_pelvis/hip_flexor_strain_full.php#2767
http://www.aidmybursa.com/illiopsoas-bursitis-anatomy.php

Pretty comprehensive, and describe my injury accurately. Now to try and heal the wretched thing so I can get back to running. Lats night, we went out for dinner, and I used my crutches (which I still had after my knee meniscus operation in 1998) to walk to the restaurant. I don't know if the crutches help, but I think I will use them for a while, anyway, just to take some of the pressure of walking off my hips. Of course, the sight of crutches results in numerous, stupid questions from people around!!!!!

The Semi-Marathon de Paris is getting ever closer, and my training is virtually non-existent. I've got to the stage where I am already considering quitting the race, because there is no way I can do any training at the moment. The Zürich Marathon in April is also in question at the moment. Perhaps I really do need to give my legs a rest for a couple of months, and then start again. However, I must make an appointment to see Dr. Hasler again next week, as even the Ecofénac meds are not working anymore!!!!

The joys of running!!!!

Training towards the MdS 2010 - 5

2008-01-10T19:20:00.000+01:00

My run on Tuesday evening was a good one, but I may just have gone too far considering the leg/hip problem. I suffered quite a lot on Wednesday, although I refused to admit it to anyone. I did limp quite a lot, and knocked back more Aspirin that is good for one.

Towards evening, I went to gym to re-start my training programme there, that I had designed last year with running in mind. Whereas during my power-training/weight-lifting days, I used to go to gym four times a week, I have now reduced this to twice a week, doing upper body on one day, and lower on the other. For the exercises I do, I have dropped my weights markedly, and am concentrating more on repetitions than weight.

Yesterday afternoon, as mentioned, I did lower-body - leg extensions, calf exercises, leg curls, hack squats, dumbbell lunges, lots of stretching for my Psoas muscle problem, and some abs work and pull-ups (the latter weight-assisted as I am still getting over my shoulder operation from 2007). It felt really good, and my glutes today are letting me know, that they were well-used. I'm glad to be back at gym, because I missed it, as did my body!!!!

Afterwards, I also re-started my Wednesday evening wellness, and returned to Bener Park where I have an annual subscription. It may be small, but is modern and immaculately clean. Wednesday evening is for men only, and I am usually alone there, which suits me fine. I made good use of the Finnish sauna, caldrarium and steam bath, and will start using the swimming pool again from week. In keeping in line with conditioning the body to withstand high temperatures in the Sahara Desert, I stayed longer than normal in the actual sauna. It's amazing how the mind works. Until yesterday, I could never stay longer than 15 minutes in the 85°C sauna; yestereve, I was determined to start heat-conditioning training, and easily managed 20 minutes.

After the exercise and stretching of yesterday, my leg is somewhat better than it was, and I will certainly get in a short run this afternoon. Planning on a long, slow run this weekend. One day, my leg will be fully healed, and I can really get into training in a big way. Until then, I do what I can, and when I can.

Here is my run route from Tuesday - discovered I could add it here. I use the programme "SportTracks", which I find excellent when connected to my Garmin Forerunner 305. Click on the pic for an enlargement.

The lure of the Marathon des Sables

2008-01-10T17:30:00.000+01:00

What is it about the Marathon des Sables that lures certain people (me included) to such a great extent, that nothing else comes to matter in the world?

Take these three photographs above, for example (I have no idea who took them - I simply found them on the 'Net, but, if they're yours, and you don't want them here, just give me a shout; if you don't mind them being here, well, then, thanks): they're a fraction of the many pics I have downloaded onto my laptop, and which I look at on a daily basis, just LONGING to finally have my turn at the MdS. There are those who would look at these pics and would consider anyone wanting to do this as a complete lunatic, ready for the nut-house.

I have read all the blogs and reports pertaining to the MdS that I can get hold of, as well as the brilliantly-written book by Mark Hines of his March 2007 participation. The 37-page blog entry by Alan Silcock I printed out, and have read 3 times in the last ten days (see "Links to other loons" on the left of the blog page), and am about to start re-reading Mark's book after only finishing it last week. I just cannot get enough. This whole thing is possessing me, but it's a magnificent possession.

I know, it's not going to be a walk in the park. It's hard, it's tough, it's brutal, people have died on it; there will be times on the race when I question my very sanity, and seriously consider quitting; the thought of all that sticky suntan lotion being covered in Saharan sand - yuck, it's just not me; not showering for a week, and sharing a tent with seven other farting, snoring, filthy, sweaty competitors - it's just not me; depriving myself of a good glass (or more) of wine after dinner, as well as fine food - it's just not me.

But you know something? It IS me!!!!! It is me, because deep inside, there is an absolute craving for this - a craving, which has been lying dormant for most of my life, but which is surfacing now, and will come to the fore thanks to the MdS. Just looking at Alan Silcock's blog entry, I could list a hundred things that, in earlier years, would have convinced me this was not for me. Now, however, this is exactly what I am looking for!!!!! It really is hard to understand, but it just is.

More than anything else in the world, I want to (and shall) do the MdS, and 2010 just cannot come quickly enough for me.

Training towards the MdS 2010 - 4

2008-01-09T04:34:00.000+01:00

How wonderful to be able to get out on the road this evening, and get in a comfortable 13-km run. No record-shattering paces, but a casual average of 5:06/km with a couple of spikes and a few slow moments.

It's funny, but pre-MdS-decision, my thoughts while I ran were mainly directed towards my upcoming first full mara in Zürich on 20th April. Now, each running step is a step towards the MdS - nothing else matters. I wonder if I really am a nutter. Who cares, though, as it's my greatest obsession in life, and I'm going to achieve it, no matter what. I have never been so motivated.

Something I am learning slowly, though, and that is, that "normal" people are as interested in the MdS as I am in politics (i.e. zero interest!!!), and I think it's time to confine my enthusiasm to my blog and the MdS forum, as well as a few people who really do show a fascination in what I am doing. My daily text messages and/or e-mails home to South Africa have also started taking on a less-MdS tone to save myself from threat of ex-communication!!!! Big smile. My friends and family all think I'm a nutter anyway, and I think the MdS has convinced them of the fact!!!!! My fascination with the French Foreign Legion and the US Marine Corps have also had them thinking about casting aspersions about me!!!!! Some things are best left kept to oneself, or to specific forums and websites.

Well, that's it for today. I feel excellent after my run, although do notice, that I have lost a fair amount of condition during this injury time, and have a lot of serious training to do before Paris on 2nd March, and Zürich on 20th April. Regretably, my 18-week training programme for the full mara has been shattered due to the leg/hip thing, but I will catch up as best as I can. All that matters for me is the ability to achieve the MdS - not to win (that doesn't even come into question), but to partake and enjoy it!!!!!!! I can hardly wait!!!!!!!

So, now for a relaxing evening, reading. Why haven't more people written books about the MdS? I got through Mark Hines's book in two days (because I was so totally absorbed in it), and am now gasping for more!!!!! Ah, well, I'll enjoy James Brady's new work Why Marines Fight - a quite intriguing look at the psyche of the US Marines.

'Til the morrow.......

The Final Diagnosis

2008-01-08T01:18:00.000+01:00

Wow, am I relieved!!!!!!!! I had my appointment this morning with the orthopaedic speclialist, Dr. Hasler, and he assured me that my leg/hip problem is not a stress fracture of the femoral neck, nor do I have osteoarthritis. There are, indeed, two problems, but they will not prevent me from running:

1. I have a slightly malformed femoral head which rubs against the hip joint from time to time when I run, especially intensely. This is not an immediate problem, but will be watched because it could be a cause of future osteoarthritis. This is not what is causing me the pain from which I have been suffering, but rather ....

2. an infection of the Psoas muscle where it joins the femur (I think!!!! - need to research it more), also caused by intense running without stretching and warming up properly. This can be treated with continuing use of Ecofénac and Aspirin, coupled with specific stretching exercises three times a day. With time, the infection will reduce and the pain with it.

Most importantly, I can run again, although I will suffer form the pain for a while yet, and can use Aspirin during the day to alleviate it - Ecofénac only to be taken at night.

Once I had heard all this, my rather depressed and sullen mood of late, rose markedly, and I am ready again to take on the running world!!!!!! I really had feared that my running life would come to an abrupt end only a few months after it had seriously started.

So, from tomorrow (Tuesday), I am back into training. Was going to go for a run this evening, but it's pouring with rain, and I'm not in the mood for the dreaded treadmill at gym.

Training towards the MdS 2010 - 3

2008-01-06T22:18:00.000+01:00

As the forecast foretold, we are in a situation of rising damp, and I have had to forego my running, and shall not forgive the weather its inclemency!!!!!!

I have thus far had a productive morning, after re-watching Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring yestereve. Before I wax eloquent about my efficacious forenoon, I'd like to record something I heard from one of the chappies in LOTR: Decide what to do with the time that is given to you. I find this a most appropriate quote, especially with regard to the MdS. Thus endeth the philosophy lesson. Now to my fruitful matinal Sunday......

Whilst tidying out my study at home, I discovered a pamphlet I had picked up at my last race (31st Zürcher Silversterlauf) in December, and, lo and behold, it's something that got the gonads all agog, and literally lambasted the legs for their lax, layabout manner of late.

I present the Swiss Jura Marathon!!!!!!! See:

http://www.swissjuramarathon.com/5/Welcome.html

and, indeed, for the very last time (sounds very pythonesque, doesn't it? And now, for the very last time on television.....). Wow, I cannot resist this. Not quite the self-sufficiency, spartan conditions of the MdS, but certainly something to seriously consider, and on my door step - well, the other side of the country, but our Helvetic Republic is not exactly the largest country in the world. The course is from Genève in the south to Basel in the north, and covers some 350 km over 7 days, through (and this I can confirm) some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.

What to do? Quite simple - overcome two major hurdles.

1. Get the leg/hip problem sorted out - tomorrow I see the specialist.

2. Convince our employee, who always takes his summer holidays in the first three weeks of July, that this year he can't.

Oh, and run more!!!!! Damn this rain!!!

Training towards the MdS 2010 - 2

2008-01-06T00:35:00.000+01:00

Well, couldn't wait for my clean running clothes of yesterday to dry, so donned some skiing underclothes and a track suit, and set off. Never again. The track suit irritated me from the start, and the underclothes seemed to become saturated in sweat - no wicking potential!!!! - and within minutes I was not happy!!!!!! The Föhn was strong, and made running tiresome. I decided to quit whinging, and persevere - on the MdS, whinging is not an option, so why should I allow it here.

Good excuse, but my leg was still hurting, and my overall run was slower than yesterday's. Managed an average pace of 5:10/km, and covered 8,72 km. I noticed a discrepancy of 0,5 km and concommitant pace difference between the iPod/Nike+ and Garmin 305 - the latter displaying the more conservative values. Somehow, I trust the Garmin gadget.

I doubt if I will be running tomorrow - not only the leg pain, but the Föhn is expected to collpase, and cold, very wet weather is on its merry way to our neck of the woods 'til Monday. I shall spend the day reading and slothing.

Here is the graph of my pace for today's run - certainly not an elite runner's pace, but I am injured, after all - huge relived smile!!!!! The very slow bits are where I had to stop at traffic lights - annoying!!!!!!! To the right is anothere slow part - nose bleed!!!!! Not too sure about the two rather fast parts towards the beginning - don't remember sprinting.

Training towards the MdS 2010 - 1

2008-01-05T22:15:00.000+01:00

Decided I'd seperate these blog entries into Training and Countdown - the former, obviously, being my training blog, which will cover over two years; the latter, a blog of general ruminations and thoughts concerning the race, as well as diverse matters such as shoes, equipment, contact, etc., and, finally, the blog of my participation in March/April 2010!!!!!!!

Today's training blog actually pertains to yesterday. I hadn't run since 26th December (and before that, the last run was the Zürcher Silversterlauf on 16th December!!!). This leg is really getting to me. There are times when I have no pain at all, and other times when I can hardly walk. The frustration is telling, and I'm becoming really aggressive because I am not able to run. Anyway, yesterday was a good day, leg-wise, so I decided to hit the road towards evening. I dressed in my running gear, did some stretching first, set up my iPod/Nike+ gadget, and attained satellite connection on my Garmin Forerunner 305.

I planned on a short run, no more than 5 km, but, once I had got going, it felt so good, that I deviated from my planned route, and ended up running down by the Rhein (Rhine), and through the military area. The mild Föhn wind was blowing quite strongly, but my spirits were high, and my leg/hip felt good. I didn't once have pain in my body, and could easily have run a half-marathon distance, except that it was getting dark (I had no light with me), and it may have been foolish after having not run for so long.

Back home after 7,84 km, I downloaded all my data, and was pleased with my results, given the circumstances. Managed a 5:05/km pace on average - not an elite, but not bad for an injured old sod of 51 years of age.

I did feel a fair amount of pain in my leg/hip once I'd had a bath, and we had walked into town to do some evening shopping - but nothing that Aspirin and, before I went to bed, Ecofénac couldn't mask!!!

It's now Saturday afternoon (5th January), and the Föhn is still blowing, keeping the temperatures far milder than would normally be the case for January, so I'm going to go off for another run, being suitably dosed up on Aspirin. Mental note to self: buy another pair of long running tights!!!! Have to wait for my longs to dry after I washed them late yesterday evening (and forget to hang them out to dry!!!!!).

Countdown to the Marathon des Sables 2010 Part 5

2008-01-03T18:02:00.000+01:00

Today, it was business as usual in our small company, after the Festive Season break, during which we did work quite often. My ailing leg is still playing up, but the appointment with my orthopaedic specialist comes ever closer (7th Jaunary). Today, however, was a good one, and I experienced very little pain indeed. Took my Ecofénac tablets yestereve, and then Aspirin at lunch time today, with the intention of a short (5 km) late-afternoon run to see how my leg would perform. Regrettably it was not to be as several business factors got in the way, and I got no run yet again today. If it goes on like this, I may as well burn my running shoes, and resort to chess.

One good thing happened, though. I had been given the mere surname of someone from Chur who, apparently, ran in the MdS at some stage, and that this person works in a bank in Chur. I duly 'phoned the first of several banks, and hit the jacktop. This fellow partook some ten years ago, but is still very active in marathons and ultras, and is very keen to meet me. Swiss TV did a reportage of his participation at the time, and he's going to post me a copy of it, and then we will meet next week. I never thought I would meet someone in this small town who is as mad as me!!!!!! I look forward to next week.

In a way, I am almost glad I couldn't go running today - not only will it give my leg yet another day to heal (hopefully), but there is a Föhn storm blowing today, and, whereas the temperature reached 6,6°C this afternoon, the windchill factor made it certainly feel like well below zero - I hate running in either wind or cold (better get used to extremes before I hit Morocco), but the two combined are anathema to me. I would have gone, however, had I had the chance - or not? In a way, I think I am putting most of my training on hold until I have seen the specialist - probably a wise decision, but it's frustrating the hell out of me.

So, tomorrow is another day.

Countdown to the Marathon des Sables 2010 Part 4

2008-01-02T16:22:00.000+01:00

So, it's 2008 already. I remember thinking about how I would be "old" at the age of 43 when 2000 started, and now I'm already in my 50's, and am planning for a major event in March/April 2010!!!!!

Had a brilliant 6 days down in our holiday house in the village of Carona near Lugano in the south of Switzerland. Carona lies above the Lago di Lugano, and it's a 155-km journey by car right through the Alps from Chur - Chur itself lies deep in the Alps of south-eastern Switzerland, in the valley of the Rhein (Rhine). Whilst enjoying the peace of Carona over New Year's Eve, I thought a lot about my hopeful participation on the 2010 MdS race, and also considered some training ideas over the next two years. Presuming that my leg injury heals soon, I'll do my planned two full marathons, three or four half-marathons, and a few other races in each of 2008 and 2009, but also want to get in at least two long solo, multi-day runs.

One of them would involve taking the train from Chur down to Zürich, and then running the 130 km back to Chur over two or (more likely) three days, carrying a rucksack with all provisions (including light tent) with me. Zürich lies at 408 metres above sea level, and Chur is at 600 metres a.s.l., so it's a 200-metre rise in elevation over the 130 km - I cycled it a few years ago, without any training, and it's a nice route, with one small, sharp incline about halfway to Chur. The mountain bike trip took me about seven hours; the running will be considerably longer. I shall plan it for in summer, of course, when, by the way, the temperature in the valleys here in Switzerland can reach up to 38°C at times, and even higher in Chur.

In 2009, I plan to do the same thing, but this time from Chur to Carona. This is far more strenuous. Chur lies at 600 metres, as mentioned above, and Carona is at 602 metres, but in between, on the route I'd take over the San Bernardino Pass, I'd reach an altitude of 2065 metres a.s.l. before the long descent down to Lugano at 280 metres, and then, the very last stretch would be a 320-metre climb over 6 km from Lugano up to Carona - the bastard at the very end - and this is not to mention the climb from Bellinzona (at 227 metres) over Monte Ceneri (at 534 metres) before the secondary descent to Lugano, and the final ascent. My partner and I want to do it by mountain bike as well (perhaps in 2008), but I can't wait to run it over about five days, camping next to streams on the way, and carrying all my food (water en route is not a problem in Switzerland!!!!).

My partner is also keen on the idea of a Nile Cruise this year, followed by a week in Sharm al Shaik (spelling?) - my first thoughts were that this would be a good idea, because then I could get in some desert running behind the sea resort. It's amazing how the mind of a running fanatic works - others would be thrilled at the prospect of the clear sea and reefs; I turn my thoughts to the mountainous area behind the resort and imagine running into the desert!!!!

At the moment, there's always the first consideration: what will be the diagnosis of my leg injury when I see the specialist on Monday next (7th January)??????

Anyway, Happy New Year to whoever reads this, and all the very best.

Countdown to the Marathon des Sables 2010 Part 3

2007-12-28T07:36:00.000+01:00

Well, Christmas is over again. It was a quiet affair this year, with us staying in Chur for a change. I had thought I'd go for a run on 25th, but lacked will-power, especially as we had work to do anyway (one body to collect and sort out) on the afternoon - ah, good excuse, but hell, it was Christmas.

Come Boxing Day, though, and I was rearing to go - blame it on Mr. Kipling's exceedingly fine mince pies!!!! The constant leg pain was just that - constant - so I popped three Aspirin, did some stretching, donned my winter running gear, and set off on a nice, slow run through Chur. There were quite a few people, dressed up for the weather, walking the streets, and I was aware of a few of them giving me puzzled stares - plebs!!!! My leg hurt not one bit as I ran the 7,3-km. It felt good being out in the cold air (temperature was about -2°C, and the sky was overcast), and I felt strong, even though I hadn't run since the Zürcher Silversterlauf on 16th December. Back home again, I showered, and then noticed the recurrence of the pain in my upper right leg - and, what's this? Oh, no, a slight pain in the left limb, too. Obviously the ailment has spread. I had only recently taken Aspirin, so resisted the temptation to swallow more, and grinned and bore the pain. Had a bad night that night - kept waking up with a deep ache in my right leg, so knocked back an Ecofénac that Dr. Hasler had given me - those things really do help, but I can only take them at night, and they're strong, so only one per day.

Of course, 27th saw me in the Diagnose-Zentrum-Labor having the MRI scan, and the results are in my previous blog. Although nothing is definite yet, I felt pretty devastated, seeing myself never running again, and, more terrifyingly, not being able to take part on the MdS in 2010. Everything was black for me the entire afternoon and evening, despite lots of positive support from fellow runners and nutters on fetch.com and themds.co.uk forum. Surprisingly, I slept well last night - unsual, because when I am normally depressed like that, sleep is out of the question.

Today, I am feeling better, but now have this sword of Damocles hanging over my head. Of course, in keeping with my character, I have read up all I can get hold of about FNSF (Femoral Neck Stress Fracture). The worst case scenario will be pins surgiaclly inserted into the neck and head of the femorus (maybe both of them), with crutches and months off running. Best case scenario will be a six weeks off running, and crutches, followed by a gradual return to my passion. Of course, this prelim diagnosis may also be quite wrong, and it's actually something else. Who knows? All this uncertainty causes me a lot of concern and consternation. I just have to keep focussed on the MdS, keep up my humour, and go forward, no matter what is thrown at me on 7th January. As so many have suggested to me: see it as a challenge, and conquer it!!!!! Something onto which I am holding particularly is this from a very wise man: "There is very little that can actually stop you from running". (Thanks, Leon).

Some thoughts regarding my training and general fitness level.
1. Reduce my alcohol intake. I love my wine, and used to be very controlled, in that I only drank the stuff at the weekends; 2007 was a bad year for me in many ways, and I find, that I have been drinking wine every night during the last few months. The effects of the liquid help reduce the pain (not all of it physical), but it's not the answer. Not only is so much wine bad for the body as a whole, but I will never reach my target weight of 70 kg if I stick to the consumption levels I have attained lately. I'm not on a diet per se, but want to get down to 70 kg for running purposes, and alcohol is not the answer. Am currently around 73 kg.
2. Once I am back on my feet again, it's time to start running hills, and not only flat, tarmac surfaces. I need to build up my stamina a lot more, and become far fitter than I am now. I have over two years 'til the MdS 2010, and can do it easily in that time.
3. Start running with a weighted rucksack to strengthen my back and shoulders, and to get used to be self-sufficient in the desert.
4. Make an effort to get in some really long, slow runs - start off with goals such as Vaduz in Liechtenstein, and then slowly increase, perhaps having a two-day run to Zürich as a final goal (125 km) - I've done Zürich by mountain bike; now do it by foot.
5. Get in more mountain hiking - we live right in the mountains, so start using them for fitness purposes. I've done Mittenberg and Känzeli so often, and can do them in good times. Start expanding, and looking, for example, at getting up to Arosa via Tschiertschen and the Carmenna Pass.
6. Find out if there are any other people in Switzerland who have done the MdS, and get hold of them for possible discussions; perhaps there are even some in Chur who are doing it, and would like to occassionally train with me. I'm pretty much a loner, so don't want to be with others all the time, but now and then would surely be of benefit.
7. Get some trail shoes - runners are no good for the above!!!!!

Those are some initial goals. Many more will surely follow. At least I have written these down now, so they are here in black and white (so to say).

Right, it's Friday morning, which means the weekly apartment clean, and, this week, taking down the Christmas tree. Hope, that we will be able to leave for Carona by lunch time. Depends on how the bodies are behaving. First things first: start getting the mind fixated on healing the leg/hip thing. No more negative thoughts, and visions of wheel chairs and zimmer frames; just health, strength and fitness, and, ABOVE ALL, the MdS in 2010.

Worrying prelim- diagnosis

2007-12-27T15:40:00.000+01:00

Well, I finally had the much-awaited MRI scan, and received the prelim. diagnosis from the radiologist. Nothing definite yet, because I now have to have another normal x-ray, and then a second MRI using a dye contrast in the blood and focussed on the area that is causing the problem - today's MRI was to try and locate the problematic region.

Next step is an x-ray at my orthopaedic specialist's and consultaion with him on 7th January, and thereafter the second MRI.

From what can be gleaned thus far, there is either a malformation of the femoral head (top of the femur) where it enters the hip socket, or, indeed, a stress fracture of the femoral neck. This is not definite yet, however. Both can cause a lot of pain, and result in crippling disabilities later on in life (considering that I am 51, "later on in life" can be any time now). The x-ray will determine if osteoarthritis has set in already; the second MRI to determine if it's the head or neck. We didn't even discuss treatment, as that will be done with the specialist on 7th January. Oddly enough, I may keep running, but should stop as soon as any pain starts - that's weird, because while I am running, there is no pain, but afterwards, it sets in with a vengeance. From what I have read in my "Boy's Book of Crippling Injuries", treatment is from moderate to extreme, and can result in a cessation of running. This sickens me to the very core - I finally found in life a sport for which I have an absolute passion, and now this!!!! Shit!!!!I KNOW the final diagnosis is yet to come, but what else can it be?

Sounds to the contrary, but I am trying not to be too pessimistic about it, and yet, at the same time, realistic. I have a pounding headache, and my guts feel like a boot has just been thrust into them. All I want to do is be able to run, and complete the Marathon des Sables in 2010. Surely that's not too much to ask???

2007 was one of the worst years of my life in many ways; I was hoping for a much better 2008, with running as a major positive factor in my life. One wonders now, what it will end up like. Some of the things that happened in 2007, included a shoulder operation (the result of a skiing accident two years ago - I broke my collar bone when a snow-boarder went over my skis and I did a somersault through the air, and landed on my left shoulder - even the ensuing helicopter flight to the hospital didn't compensate for the extreme pain I felt!!!!), and an operation to remove the bursa from my right elbow after I had a mountain bike accident, which, ironically, took place right in before the surgeon who operated on my shoulder!!!!!! There were also lots of relationship problems, and my own psychological hassles I had to try and sort through and confront. It was just a shitty year - the saving grace was my running.

Sounds like "Poor, poor me" - that's not the case, but I just feel a slight amount of devastation at the moment, and can hardly wait 'til 7th January - why do bloody doctors have to go on holiday???????? To top it all, we were woken at 2:30 a.m. with a bloody death case (which, as it turned out, could have waited until this morning), so I feel even worse than I would have otherwise. I'm also reading the new book on the Marathon des Sables by David Hine (I think that's right), and have started wondering if I'll ever be able to do it.

Shit, bugger, shit, phuque. This is not a happy bunny in the Alps right now. Almost feel like going for a 20-km run later, just to take it out on my leg. I'll calm down soon, but I needed to get this off my chest in a place where people understand the frustrations and worries I have - running has become one of the most important parts of my life, and it TERRIFIES me, that it might be taken away from me.

So, I need to get back to death work. I should count my blessings - at least I am alive.
More later, after a couple of Valium
Cheers,
Craig almost on crutches

Countdown to the Marathon des Sables 2010 Part 2

2007-12-21T03:37:00.000+01:00

As each day goes by, I become more and more excited about the event ahead of me. These are VERY early days, and, although I am glad, that I have lots of time ahead of me to train, learn more about the MdS and what I should take, etc., I'm also wildly envious of the people taking part in 2008 and 2009.

Having written that, there are already times, like this morning, when I wake up in a cold sweat about the event, and have to convince myself, that I don't have to do it - it's a free choice. The panic lasts a few seconds, and then the extreme excitement of the whole thing sets in again, and I am overwhelmed by the fact that I know I have it in me to complete this race, and I know I will do it. I'm not doing it to impress anyone; I'm not doing it for anyone, other than myself. I want, more than anything else in the world, to receive a médaille confirming, that I have crossed the finishing line of the most gruelling foot race in the world.

I spend much time on the forum site: http://www.themds.co.uk/forums/index.php, feeling more at home there now, than anywhere else, anxiously awaiting new postings from members. I know I belong to a lunatic fringe, but it's the best thing in the world. I can hardly believe, that at the tender age of 51 years, I have found something, which has become my greatest obsession. It's not negative - it's a wonderful, positive and motivating feeling.

Today, on said forum, I accessed a posting which is entitled:
You know you're doing the Marathon des Sables when...
I added a couple of responses, and here they are:
... you inadvertently and unwillingly become the centre of conversation when people find out about your intention to participate, followed by strange looks from, and avoidance by, more conventional people.
... your partner thinks you're a total loon, but nevertheless starts buying you maps of Morocco, and Lonely Planet's guide to the country.
... you start adding French and Arabic to your "list of languages to learn before I die".
... you start panicking, that your current head cold and stupid leg injury are going to interfere with your participation on the MdS in 2010!!!!!
... you start copying music to your iPod, believing it will be motivating for the desert, and have already created a playlist on the iPod called "Morocco".
... you find your iPod weighs an absolute ton.
... you realize that your fancy Canon EOS digital camera is far too heavy to carry on the MdS, and you have already bought a smaller, almost weightless digicam for the event in 2010..
... you find your almost weightless digicam weighs an absolute ton.
... you start regarding your planned participation on the 89,3-km Comrades Marathon in South Africa in June 2009 as a walk in the park.
... your first full marathon (Zürich, on 20th April 2008) is actually annoying because it's so short.
... you realise, it's time to cut back on wine consumption.
... NOTHING else is important, other than the MdS!!!!!!

All of it true for me!!! March/April 2010 cannot come quickly enough. I just have to get over the cold and the leg injury, and then I will start focussing my training on MdS 2010 - although, of course, all races and training in between are also very important indeed.

31. Zuercher Silvesterlauf - 16th December 2007

2007-12-18T06:00:00.000+01:00

My third race under my belt since I've got into this running thing!!!! It was a short one, but, under the circumstances, I'm glad it was, and upon the reason for that, I shall elaborate shortly.

"31. Zürcher Silvesterlauf" translates from the German to "31st New Year's Eve Run of Zürich", and covers a distance of 8,6 km through the city. Now, why it's a New Year's Eve run on 16th December, and why 8,6 km, I have yet to discover, but it's an interesting concept nonetheless. Regardless, I took part, and am pleased to say, that I completed the race in 40:57 - not exactly a world record, but, under the circumstances, not bad for me. The race comprised several races of various distances and categories. The category I chose when I registered, was, for a change, not based upon age, but speed, and mine was the top (well, the top athletes are in a class of their own) group, expecting to complete the distance in 40 minutes or less.

As it turned out, I placed 1990 out of 3950 for the 8,6 km distance, and 226 out of 930 in my category (many didn't make the 40-minute "limit"), so I did OK!!!

Now, what are these circumstances I have mentioned above. Well, first of all, one of our good friends celebrated his 40th birthday the night before, and, naturally, there was a lot of wine flowing. The road to hell may be paved with good intentions, especially the night before a race, but the wine was better, and I had more than the one glass I had promised myself. Come Sunday morning, and I was never going to drink again. Actually, it wasn't that bad, but I did have more than I should have had, and was not really fit for running a race - I now declare this publicly: I will not drink wine (ANY WINE) again on the night before a race!!!!!

And then, of course, there was the subject of my lingering leg injury. Ostensibly it's a Gracilis muscle (one of the adductors) which was injured, but I fear it's actually a stress fracture. A cortisone injection and meds have not helped much, and even physiotherapy is not really doing all that much to relieve the pain. The only thing which gives symptomatic relief, is Aspirin, but one should only take just so much of that - I have to admit to far too much Aspirin consumption lately!!!!! In the four weeks leading up to the Zürich race, I trained for exactly one week (with some pretty good runs during the period), which doesn't exactly help one to do well.

Anyway, until Saturday, I was more or less resigned to the fact that I would not be running. My physiotherapist threatened me with my life if I ran. On Saturday, I went by train down to Zürich to do some shopping - but I KNEW I would go to the exhibition tent and pick up my number for the race. Strangely enough, my leg was not hurting much that day. Once I had my number bib and bag of goodies, wild horses would not have been able to drag me away from Sunday's race. I went back home to Chur, later that afternoon, resolute, that I'd be back on the train the next day to compete.

I had all my kit laid out, ready, before we left for the 40th birthday bash that evening. My leg still felt fine, and I was quite adamant I was going to run. At the party, Kurt (my partner) took great delight in telling people about my racing/running, so, of course, there was always something to chat about with folk. After a few glasses of wine, even my planned 250-km Marathon des Sables in 2010 became something that everyone simply did at least once in his/her life, and I was amazed at how people thought I was a total loon when I mentioned that I was planning to run it. Well, I am, but first things first: let me get through my first full-mara in Zürich in April, and then we'll see if I am capable (that's a stupid statement, because nothing, short of death, will stop me doing the MsD now - I have my heart, mind and even the spleen set on doing it).

Fortunately my race in Zürich only took place at 15:00 hours, so I could sleep in a bit on Sunday. I was to go alone to Zürich. Kurt, and our friends, Rolf and Brigitte, were not coming this time. I eventually left on the 10:09 train, and was in the big city by 11:30-ish, with lots of time on my hands. I first of all found the building in which one could change, after which I found a whole row of buses near the start, which had been placed for changing purposes, so at least I could leave my kit bag in one of them (valaubles could be handed in to a security stand - old running shoes, jock straps, PIN codes, that sort of thing), and access it easily while I warmed up, etc.

One can only do that much warming up, but I did my best to keep warm. It was ABSOLUTELY FREEZING in Zürich. There was low, thick cloud cover, temperatures just below freezing, and a north-easterly wind which reduced the wind-chill factor to about -6°C. At the best of times, I do not like wearing much clothing (I'll NEVER understand, or adapt to, the Swiss way of wearing four layers of clothing in winter!!!!!), but yesterday I had on a vest, running shirt and running jacket, and my lycra running longs and track suit pants in which to warm-up, and STILL froze while warming up. The whole race thingy started off around midday with kids' races - millions of the little buggers everywhere. Grin and bear it, or run away in the opposite direction - I chose the latter!!!! I went for a nice, slow jog along the lake shore.
Around 1:30-ish, I came back to the race area, to see the top guys run. Our Swiss champion, Viktor Röthlin, was running, too, and I really hoped he would beat all the Ethiopians, Kenyans, etc. My goodness, when I look at those top athletes run, I could pack it all up, throw away my running shoes, and call it a day. They are so incredibly fit, and run like the blazes. I know it was only an 8,6-km run, but how can one keep up such a pace, even for that distance? All right, they are a "few" years younger than me, and have been running since conception, but hell, why can't I run like that?????? :)

Back to my gammy leg - all of Sunday down to Zürich, I had no problems at all. Come my warm-ups, and, lo and behold, my old friend returned to annoy me. It was too late to back out, but I did promise myself that I would stop, if the pain became too intense (would I have kept the promise???? Are you you dead????).

Twenty minutes before the start of my category's race, there was an aerobics warm-up session on a square near the start. I took part, and my leg pain disappeared. Maybe I should do more of this aerobics stuff - in another life!!! Thereafter, we had ten minutes until 930 of us set off on a route which would see us loop four times through the city, culminating at a frozen "Ziel/Arrivée" - FINISH.

I had my new Garmin 305 Forerunner GPS/Heart Rate Monitor/Mini-Bar with me, and was keen to use it for the first time on a race. Unfortunately I had set it to automatically set a lap at the end of each kilometre, and had no idea how to end a lap at 0,6 km (the last lap of the 8,6 km). Nonetheless, it turned out to be a wonderful little instrument - almost as useful as Aspirin!!!!

£1000 prize for the first one who can guess what the result is of the following: a certain amount of wine the night before, two (make that three) cups of coffee the next day, a LOT of water, and jolly cold weather, coupled with pre-race jitters. A lot of toilet-going!!!!!!! Hmmm, I spent half my time in the portable toilets scattered around the race area. Anyway, a man has to do what a man has to do. I hate those things, because I despise looking down and seeing what the previous person had left behind!!!!!!

Well, ablutions behind me, I made my way to the start line on the road next to the Limmat River which runs from Lake Zürich through the city. I had, until then, not been in a race with so many people - and this was only one category!!!!! It was incredible. Even if I had wanted to do so, I could not have found a place near the start line. I almost needed binoculars to see it from where I found myself, and there were still great crowds behind me. What a thrill; what an experience. Everyone happily nervous and excited. It just so happened, that a row of "Port-a-Johns" was near where I was waiting for the start pistol. My bladder was complaining again. I could not believe it. Three minutes to go, and I need the toilet. I shall have my bladder removed at the next possible opportunity. Fortunately, one of the cubicles became free just them, so I thundered in, did what one does in such a place, and thundered out again, with 2:23 minutes to go.

In true Swiss style, the locals had come out in their hoardes to watch the mad ones on this frozen, alpine, Arctic Sunday, and many even had their decorative cow bells with them, the clanging thereof adding to the festive atmosphere. I stood there, occassionally making small talk with fellow runners, they also questioning whether a last visit to the portable john was essential or not. That excited nervousness before a race is something that has to be experienced to be understood. It's worth living for, and worth all the trials and tribulations (and JOYS) of training. I just LOVE IT!!!!!!! Other than the idea of the tax department exploding, there is almost no better emotion. Excuse me, while I wipe away a tear!!!!

Finally, the countdown began. The digital display, about 276 metres in front of where I was standing, let us know how much time was left 'til the beginning. I was incredibly nervous. Would my leg hold up? Was I dressed warmly enough? - I had taken off my track-suit trousers and Nike skull cap. Would I remember to push all the relevant buttons on my instruments before we set off? Had I connected the electronic chip correctly to my shoe? Would the Russians really deliver nuclear thingies to the Iranians? And did Little Jim really fall into the water? Would I be accepted for the 2010 Marathon des Sables in Morocco? Runners have a lot of things on their minds. What is wrong now????? No, my bladder CANNOT be full again. Ignore, or simply become incontinent!! I was bouncing up and down on my feet, and, at T-20 seconds, I could feel the beginnings of a cramp in my right calf muscle. What the hell this is? I had taken magnesium tablets, Aspirin, lots of water. WHY am I cramping now????? Forget it - like George W. Bush, it'll eventually go away.

FÜNF - five
VIER - four
DREI- three
ZWEI - two
EINS - one

Bugger off, and see you in less than 40 minutes!!!!! (but we'll accept you in 40:57, as long as you have a sore leg).

And we're back in the present tense, and OFF!!!!!!

But, I am tired, and need the duvet!!!!! I shall continue this tomorrow. Have patience. As they say in Africa: "If you find the river flooded, wait"!!!!! I need a shower, an anti-sore-leg med, and then a bed.

More on the morrow.
Greetings for the lower limbs,
Craig

Another day, and the blog continues........

Well, it's the present tense for the race, so let's see if I can remember my grammar.

It's exactly 15:00 hours, and the pistol shot reverberates off the walls of the buildings lining the road, and bounces off the Limmat River next to us. A mass of humanity tries to depart as one, but it just doesn't work. At the front, the runners there set off at a cracking pace, whilst those of us further back, bounce up and down impatiently. Some try to break through the throng, and a few well-aligned elbows hit a few targets!!!! The cramp in my right calf continues to worry me, and I continue to try and ignore it. It's not bad, but it's there, and it shouldn't be!!!!

We have all been equipped with electronic chips which attach to the shoe, and one's start time is only registered as one passes over the actual starting line. Finally, after what seems like an eternity, but is certainly no longer than five to ten seconds, my area of runners starts to move forward, slowly at first, and then gradually picking up speed. Over the starting line we go, and the race is on. With the incredible release of tension en masse, frustration is high as one tries to get forward, but patience eventually wins the day, and I find an open space through which I can push forward. A quick glance at my Garmin 305 shows a pace of 7:37 minutes per km (written in future as 7:37/km), which is very slow, but I suspect a gremlin, as a few seconds before, it showed a pace of 2:04/km; however, it soon sorts itself, and I am confident, that the information from my new toy is accurate.

To cover the 8,6 km in 40 minutes or less, I need to maintain an average pace of 4:39/km. The route itself is through the old part of Zürich, along the Limmat River, across a couple of bridges, up a rather steep hill in the so-called Utopia area of the old town, and down the world-famous Bahnhofstrasse with its beautiful shops, and then back to just near the start before it's over the Münsterbrücke again and another round - four times in all. It's an interesting route, with the sides of the race-track lined with people, all cheering us on; cowbells clanging, music playing, kids sticking out their hands for high-fives - in all, a most jolly atmosphere, despite the intense cold. I feel very proud being part of it all, and feel like I have a grin on my face for most of the time.

Once the crowded start is over, and the mass of runners thins itself out a little, running becomes easier and more fun, although there are still more runners together in bunches than I have experienced before - with such a relatively short race distance, and so many participants, I guess it's not surprising. Getting ones foot (or both) caught in the tramlines is not out of the questions, as is tripping over the sidewalk curbs, so being vigilant in that respect is salient to surviving the race, and avoiding the undertakers lurking ever nearby. I ignore the cramp in my right calf for the first 300 metres, and it miraculously vanishes - now if only this other pain in my leg would do the same!!!!!!

The Splits below are each 1 km in length.

Split 1 - 4:25/km; average heart rate 165 bpm; maximum heart rate 169 bpm

Split 2 - 4:27/km; average HR 166 bmp; max. HR 168 bpm

I scale the Utopia hill this first time with ease, even overtaking several runners, but know that it's quite a fast race, and I have to do this infamous incline another three times before it's over. Even the top of the hill is not really the top, as it still rises, albeit at a lesser gradient, for a while, before the most welcome descent down to the Bahnhofstrasse, which is simply teeming with spectators. I miss not having someone to look out for in the crowds this time, but what the hell, I can't expect Kurt and others to come to every race.

Back towards the start area where there is a junction - either right, and a further 250 metres to the finish, or left for the next loop of the route. I'm feeling strong, and no sign whatsoever of pain from my leg. Back over the Münsterbrücke, and faces and buildings are starting to become familiar. I hardly feel the cold anymore - in fact, I wish I weren't wearing all this clothing. Among Viktor Röthlin and the boys (i.e. I think the top 50 athletes who had run earlier), many were wearing simple running vests and shorts, and I wished I had done the same thing, although the amount of heat they must have generated at their paces (Viktor's average pace was around 3:35/km, which is significantly faster than mine!!!!!), would warrant running almost naked; at my leisurely pace, A LOT of clothing at those temperatures is essential!!!! So, I stop wishing, and start being happy, that the sweat under my hundreds of layers of running attire is not freezing up.

Split 3 - 4:34/km; average HR 166 bpm; max. HR 171 bpm

A little slower than before, but I hit that hill again - it wasn't so funny this time, and some runners were even walking up it!!!!

And back down the Bahnhofstrasse again - reputedly the most expensive shopping street in the world - and on towards the junction. Rushing down from the end of the hill, I manage to sprint somewhat, and attain a maximum pace of 3:05/km for a brief while - move over, Viktor!!!!! We won't mention the 7:26/km going up the Utopia hill!!!!!!!

Split 4 - 4:37/km; average HR 162 bpm; max. HR 166 bpm.

Progressively slower, but I blame it on the crowds who are distracting me, the cow bells which cause me to look out for wandering cattle, and the fact that I am now looking out for people I had seen on the previous loop. I did manage again a nice little maximum pace of 3:32/km, which lasted for a good 150 metres (this Garmin 305 toy produces some amazing information!!!!!!).

Back over the Münsterbrücke yet again, up the Limmatquai, and things are going very well.

Split 5 - 4:29/km; average HR 165 bpm; max. HR 169 bpm

Yet again that hill. This time I ascend it at an official "slow jog" - 10:21/km - I'm starting to hate that hill, but at least I am not reduced to walking like many others. I'm too tenacious for that, and my mind just wouldn't allow me to go any slower.

It's over the hurdle and the slope down to the Bahnhofstrasse yet again. Ah, there's Frau Müller from Globus; ah, and here I see again Herr Caflisch who looks like he may just have slipped into the pub for a swift pint after I past him last time around. High-five a few kids, and onwards I plod.

Split 6 - 4:36/km; average HR 164 bpm; max. HR 168 bpm

Over the bridge for the third time, and it's the last round ahead of me. Accepting invitations to dinner from spectators I have "met" on the way, I thrust myself forward, but I'm starting to tire now. I try not to think of the lack of training I have had in the four weeks up to this race, but it's a convenient excuse, anyway.

Split 7 - 4:51/km; average HR 163 bpm; max. HR 167 bpm

I really push myself this time as I head up the Utopia cliff, and manage a pace of 6:34/km whilst ascending. Then it's a rapid descent to the Bahnhofstrasse and I'm starting to become really thirsty, but it's not far now.

Split 8 - 4:37/km; average HR 162 bpm; max. HR 167 bpm

Ah, an increase in average pace - must be the homeward stretch. I feel my clothes under my running jacket are very wet now, and I'll be glad to get out of them. It's a short race, so there're no worries about blisters or dying of dehydration, although I can feel a touch of malnutrition creeping up on me - I'd had some carbs at breakfast before I left Chur, but nothing solid since then. Hmmm, mental note to self: eat soon, or you'll be getting a visit from the UN Food Programme people. The mind flashes to TV pictures of me, lying in the sand, starving, emaciated, flies buzzing around my eyes, with pleas for help and a website appearing at the bottom of the screen. I anxiously glance down to my girth, and notice the great rolls of cellulite (not really!!!) flopping around as I hurtle down the Bahnhofstrasse for the fourth time. Second mental note to self: there's enough fat reserve there to feed a few Third World countries, so quit whinging!!!!

I've completed 8 km now, so it's 600 metres left. It's time to deprive the Third World of a possible feast and use up some of those fat reserves, and I start accelerating. Wow, what a great feeling it is to overtake those morons who had seen fit to roar past me earlier. It's payback time!!!! Vengeance is mine, I scream in my mind, and give it all I have, as I roar (well, sort of) around the first of the last two corners of the race route.

My speed starts to increase - 4:33/km; 4:02/km; 3:50/km; 3:24/km and finally a major spurt to achieve a swift race maximum for me of 3:02/km as I overtake a group of five or six runners. I can only presume that my Garmin 305 is accurate, as the results from my iPod/Nike+ are pretty similar. All I know is, that it was damned fast (for me), albeit a short sprint, and I throw my arms up into the air as I cross the finishing line, feeling like a marathon winner.

Split 9 (0,6 km) - 3:47/km; average HR 164; max. HR 172. (Despite problems in turning off the Garmin 305, I managed to extract this data from the records in the gadget).

And then, suddenly, it's all over. I cannot believe it. I move several metres forward from the finishing line to get out of the way of other runners arriving, turn around, and anxiously look for an official clock so I can see my official time. I know I am just over the 40-minute mark, but I need an exact time. Can't find the clock, so I slowly make my way down the canyon of fences to the sponsors' tables, have the chip cut off my shoe, eagerly accept a litre of lemon juice and a large banana, and exit the race area into a HUGE crowd of well-wishers and people who like the smell of sweaty runners.

I consume my nourishment, and feel somewhat confused and lonely. I need someone to hug me, to congratulate me, to rush me off to the nearest pub and buy me a cüppli of champagne - but this time I'm alone, so it's a slow stroll back to the bus where my belongings sit, after a little stretching first, change into dry and warm clothes, collect my valuables, and then try to decide what to do. Should I wait for the prize-giving at 5 o'clock, or should I head back to Chur? I'm starting to shiver now, and I need warmth. Forget the presentation - go to the railway station.

Within minutes of ending the race, my HR is down to around 85 bpm, which is a good sign of fitness and quick recovery. I had seen Viktor and the Africans finish their race earlier (I was at the finishing line), and, as I walk back past the start en route to the station, the slower group of 8,6-km runners set off, and I wish them well, and almost long to be with them as well, doing another round - almost!!!!!

On the train back to Chur, I anxiously try to access the Internet on my mobile 'phone, but the results have not yet been posted. I go through the information on my electrical equipment, and find that my time is under 41 minutes, and my average pace is 4:46/km, so that's not too bad.

Within two hours, I am back home in Chur, lying in a bubble bath, enjoying a glass of South African red, and feeling like a king. Despite my lack of training and the injury, I had run, what I consider, a good race, and felt happy.

My official results were:

Time: 40:57

Average pace: 4:45/km

Postion out of 3950 adult 8,6-km runners: 1990

Position out of 931 adult 8,6-km runners for "under 40 minutes": 226

I slept well on Sunday evening, and look forward to my next major race: the Semi-Marathon de Paris (half-marathon) on 2nd March. No doubt there will be a few minor races in between.

My leg held up for the race, but started aching a little on the way back to Chur. Today - Tuesday - I have had physiotherapy again, and it really is starting to feel as though the injury is healing. Pity, though, that I have caught a cold - there's always something!

Well, that's it then. Another race, another blog. Hopefully there will be many more to follow (races, I mean). Thanks for reading all this, if you got this far.

Cheers,

Craig

P.S. For some inexplicable reason, and although I have inserted them in the original, and editted the post twice, the paragraph lines just won't appear in the final post for the second half of this blog. Anyone have any ideas????

Countdown to the Marathon des Sables 2010 Part 1

2007-12-18T01:50:00.000+01:00

I recently decided, that I would participate in the 2010 Marathon des Sables in south-eastern Morocco. This is purported to be the most gruelling foot race in the world. I decided to start this blog now (17th December 2007), and add to it as March 2010 approaches.

Of course, the big factor is, if I can secure a place in the race - only a certain number of places are available, and there are a few agents around the world who deal with the various countries' applications. Living in Switzerland, my application will be made through the German agent, and registration for 2010 is only from October 2009 (in comparison, the British agents have already sold out places for the 2010 race for the countries under their jurisdiction!!!!!). However, I'm going to presume that I will be fortunate, and keep this blog going.

For non-runners: it might be boring at times, when I add training info, and the like; it may even be very boring, anyway. However, you are not compelled to read it.

For the running fraternity: I'd love to get to know more of you, as I feel sort of alone, here in the Alps of south-eastern Switzerland. Please do comment on any blog entries I make, particularly if you see me making mistakes in my training, thoughts on the MdS (Marathon des Sables), etc.

Some of you have already asked why I don't apply for the 2009 MdS - well, I only started running seriously in the second half of this year (2007), and I have yet to do my first full marathon (that comes on 20th April 2008 in Zürich); bearing in mind that I am 51 years of age, I have a lot of training to do, and need to learn a lot, too. So, 2010 is a better plan for me, even though I will then be approaching the veritable age of 54.

In June 2009, I am hoping to do the Comrades Marathon in my former homeland of South Africa, from Pietermaritzburg to my hometown of Durban on the coast. It's a famous 89,3-km race, and something I just HAVE to do - like the MdS, one of those things to do before dying!!!!

I never thought I'd get into long-distance running, but, now that I have, I cannot get enough of it. Unfortunately, being an impatient relative newcomer to the sport, I tend to over-do things, and end up with injuries, one of which I am suffering with now (although I did run a race in Zürich yesterday, despite the pain) - a pain, deep in the top of my right leg (I suspect a stress fracture (PLEASE, let me be wrong), but an MRI scan scheduled for 27th December will, hopefully, reveal what the problem really is). Until then, I run!!!!!! - and take Aspirin to kill the pain.

Well, that's the end of my first blog entry for this future event. Once the blog lengthens, I'd appreciate any comments, criticisms, corrections, etc. More soon.

Maratona Ticino - November 2007

2007-12-17T09:11:00.000+01:00

Marathon in Locarno

My report on the maratona Ticino in Locarno, Switzerland – Sunday, 11th November 2007.

Since my last (and first) race – the Lausanne (Quarter-) Marathon in Lausanne (funny, that), Switzerland three weeks beforehand, I’d been anxiously awaiting, and training for, my first half-marathon in Locarno, southern Switzerland on 11th November. The quarter in Lausanne was a good test for me – not only had I never raced before, but I had actually trained very un-seriously, not understanding, until recently, the science/art of training properly. In fact, although I have been running since about May 2007, I’ve only really had my heart in it since about the middle of September this year. I managed Lausanne far better than I had ever expected (46 minutes), so was highly motivated for the half-mara in Locarno this last weekend, knowing full well, however, that it would be double as far to propel myself forward. I also started training far more seriously, and, thanks to the advice from my brother-in-law in South Africa (Gavin), and two very experienced runners from Fetcheveryone.com (SarahL and eL Bee!), I began to apply some sense to my training, albeit only a week before my big race. I started having dreams about the maratona Ticino about the time I started training better – I guess the normal pre-race jitter kind of dreams – missing the start, forgetting to take my carbohydrate gels, and so on. Nevertheless, it went off so well – for my newcomer standards.

Let’s take a step back, and start at the beginning of the build-up to Locarno (the maratona Ticino). First of all, I live in Chur, Switzerland, in the south-east (and largest) canton of Graubünden (in English, known by the French term Grisons). My partner and I have a holiday house in the Italian-speaking south of Switzerland in the canton Ticino, near the town of Lugano on the lake of the same name. About a marathon distance from Lugano, heading NNW is the town of Locarno on the lake Lago Maggiore; more famous in international circles than Locarno is the lakeside resort of Ascona, not far from Locarno. Bear in mind, that as this canton lies on the south side of the Swiss Alps, the weather there is very different to that in the north of the country. As it was this last weekend, the north had snow, snow and more snow, whilst on race day in Locarno, the weather was characterised by sunshine and temperatures of up to 18°C!!!!! Quite unbelievable – our home town of Chur in the Grisons had 40 cm of snow at the weekend. Thus endeth the geography lesson!!! Big Smile.

Maratona Ticino – Part the first. The Preamble.

On Friday, around midday, Kurt (my partner) and I set off from Chur, heading through the mountains to the south. The weather was wild – snow in Chur itself, and blizzards en route, up to and just beyond the San Bernardino Tunnel. I’m not a great fan of travelling by car in the snow, but if I wanted to run my first half-mara, there was no other choice, and, anyway, a weekend in our holiday house (in the village of Carona above Lugano) could not be spoilt by a few stupid snowflakes!!!! Once through the San Bernardino Tunnel, the Autobahn drops rapidly down towards the canton Ticino, and the so-called Nordföhn (adiabatic north wind – here we go again with the geography!!!!) takes over from the north wind in the north, dries out, warms up, and causes beautiful weather in the south. By two in the afternoon, we were in our house, settled, and ready to take on the weekend, complete with race in Locarno. I’ll try to skip the mundane details of shopping, feeding the fish in the pond in our garden, dusting the wine bottles in the cellar, pruning the triffids, burying dead hedgehogs, and that sort of thing – suffice to say, by evening, we were settled upstairs (it’s a four-story house, with the original parts of it being about 700 years old!!!! – full of history and character), a roaring fire burning in the fireplace, good, red Italian wine flowing, and a hearty meal being eaten. I knew, that my pre-race night would be fitful, so I was determined, that the penultimate one would be as restful as possible, and I managed an almost solid 10 hours of rest that night, something I seldom achieve.

Saturday was another brilliant, Nordföhn day, and the skies were as clear as crystal, and as warm as could be. Around early afternoon, we set off by car for Locarno where the maratona Ticino was to be held the following day. I’d been alone in Carona for a few days the week before, and had already had a quick look at the course, and it looked great!!! This time, of course, things were starting to happen, and the pre-race sale of running equipment, collection of number bibs and bags of goodies, and so on, were the order of the afternoon. The marathon was to start and finish in the village of Tenero, just next to Locarno. There is a large, and very impressive centro sportivo (sports centre – clever, huh?) there, with amazing facilities. I picked up my bib (number 3027, starting group C – who knows how they allocate one to a group, but then again, who cares), bought a new runner’s vest and belt for gels, etc., and then Kurt and I motored as far as possible over the route of the following day’s race. The maratona Ticino offers a full- and half-marathon. The whole distance and Group A of the semi, were to start at 9:15 the next morning, Group B at 9:25, and my group at 9:35.

The jaunt over the route proved interesting, and also revealed a rather nasty little hill around the 13-km mark. Some things are best left un-thought of, and this hill was one of those. The rest was mainly flat, and would be a breeze. That hill!!!! Strike it from my thoughts, have a glass of wine, and relax – so off we went into Locarno itself, did a little shopping and had a glass of Italian white!!!! OK, I know wine on the day preceding a race is said to make one sluggish during the event, but one cannot be in Ticino sans wine. About that hill!!!!! What hill??

Back in Carona, the fire was lit again, and Kurt set about cooking an amazing meal (he is a qualified Swiss chef, but we have a completely different business of our own, now – nothing to do with cooking). Friends of ours, Rolf and Brigitte, were due to arrive from Chur around 7:30-ish that evening. Together with Kurt, they have become my official support and fan club at races – although I cannot expect them to come to every race, because none of them is a runner by any means, and it must be very boring for non-runners to constantly have to follow some bipedal fool around the country, while he tries to achieve weird and wonderful things like PBs, do things like intervals, and constantly refer to his HRM and talk about VO2max and the like.

My fan club arrived on time, and we were soon indulging in an amazing meal, albeit mine was quite different to that of the normal folk – I had a large plate of organic, whole-meal pasta, while the masses ate an incredible culinary delight, as put together by the ex-chef. I did indulge myself in a few more glasses of red wine, but finally decided it was time to excuse myself, and head for bed, leaving the others to imbibe and indulge as they wished, but reminding them, that the next morning, we were due up bright and early. Lots of muttering, throwing of empty wine bottles at me, setting fire to my running clothes, and sabotaging my iPod resulted, but I escaped, and went downstairs to make sure my running gear was in order (as if I hadn’t already done that a thousand times in the previous hour, anyway!!!), before hitting the pillow.

My self-fulfilling prophesy manifested itself around 4 o’clock the next morning, when I woke up with a start, and could not return to sleep. My mind was already in Locarno, even though my body was in a nice, warm, comfortable bed, under a deep, soft, friendly duvet. Tell me again why we run????? By six o’clock, I was up, eating a light breakfast of whole-wheat bread and peanut butter (GROSS, at that time of the morning), a banana, a glass of orange juice, and my normal cup of coffee. My mind was racing already, trying to put together all the advice SarahL, eL Bee! and Gavin had given me, and all the stuff I had been reading in my collection of books on marathoning. It became a little overwhelming, and eventually I decided to just relax, and do what I felt was best for me, but bearing in mind the most important aspects of the advice given – take it easy, and enjoy it!!!!! I’m 51 years old; I’m hardly going to win a marathon, so why the stress and tension – enjoy it, yes; take it easy and don’t go at it like the proverbial bull in a china shop, yes!!!! What, me panic???? Yes!!!!!

Nevertheless, by the time the others were up and ready to go, I was a bundle of nerves, checking and re-checking everything, almost wearing out the zip on my new kit bag through opening it so often, standing at the door to the house about fifteen minutes before we had agreed to set off, tapping my foot, looking anxiously at my Polar HRM and quite certain I’d miss my race, and so on, ad nauseum.

We finally set off for Locarno at 7:45 a.m. Would we have an accident on the way? Would there by a traffic jam? Had a meteorite crashed onto the motorway and cut off all access to Locarno? There was no mental rest for me, and I am sure, I nearly drove my fellow passengers crazy with constant talk of gels, enough water, glycogen, min/km pacing, my Achilles tendon support. By the time we arrived at the centro sportivo in Tenero, they were ready to throw me out of the car – but, as I pointed out to them, in case they ever decided to start running, they would have a lot of theoretical knowledge from me. Ouch, the bottle of Gatorade that hit my head left a nasty bump!!

Kurt and I had arranged, the day before, where the three of them would be standing at the halfway mark to hand me some Gatorade, so that was all settled. The course resembles a figure-8, which meant, that the start, finish, and halfway (for the half-mara) were all in about the same place – the centro sportivo. At the restaurant in the centre, the others had coffee and croissants, and I had a glass of water and a sachet of gel, but was so nervous and needed to be alone for a while to take it all in, calm myself down, and do my warm-ups.

Being only my second race, I somehow regarded everyone else as an expert, and tried to emulate a lot of the pre-race training that was taking place around me. It didn’t take long for me to decide upon what seemed the right things for me, and was soon exuding a suitable amount of sweat, and starting to feel good about myself, and, above all, a lot calmer than before. Around 9:10, I made my way back to my little group of supporters, and we had a last-minute wishing-me-well session, with lots of hugs and words of encouragement. There seemed like thousands of people around, whereas the number was certainly nothing like the amazing atmosphere three weeks prior to Locarno in Lausanne. The exact number of participants I will include in the next part of my blog.

At exactly 9:15 a.m. on Sunday, 11th November 2007, the pistol shot reverberated around the centro sportivo, several sparrows fell out of the air and hit the ground near the starting line, and the group of full mara-runners and half-mara Group A, hurtled off on the start of a wonderful run. Ten minutes later, the procedure was repeated, and I felt the emotion rising in me as my time approached. That welling-up, as in Lausanne, hit me again, and it took all I could to suppress the tears of amazement and delight that I was taking part in such an event. At this stage, Kurt, Rolf and Brigitte set off with the digital video and photo cameras to the gate of the centre, from where they would have a better view of me as I set off on my semi-marathonal adventure.

I was then on my own, despite being surrounded by hundreds of people, all with the same goal in mind. Nervously, still testing all my gadgets (iPod and Nike+ sensor, Polar HRM, pulse-maker, catheter, colostomy bag (well, not really the last three)), I made my way to the starting line, positioning myself about five rows of people back from the front. What was that feeling in my groin – did I need the toilet again????? That strange tension in my left ankle – it wasn’t there before, so is my formerly recalcitrant Achilles tendon, despite the elastic support, about to play up again??? Will my glasses fall off when I run???? Be still, oh mind!!!! If only.

9:33, and the tension was beyond belief. I felt like my brain was going to explode. “What’s wrong with me?”, I asked. “Runners do this every weekend all over the world.”. I wonder how many others have the kind of thoughts that go through my over-active mind.

9:34. Maybe I could get a note from my mother to excuse me from games. Where are SarahL, eL Bee! and Gavin when I need them?????? My legs will never make 20,0795 km – funny that, as I did 20,83 km only two weeks before. Damn, what was that speed again at which I should run to achieve 1h50m??? Why is my brain numb???? Why are my legs numb???? Shoot that damned pistol, and let’s get out of here before I explode with anticipation and anxiety. Run, Forrest, run!!!!!!

Part the second will follow once I have had some sleep – if I ever get any, as I am so excited again, just having written all this down. If this is what all races will be doing to me – and I plan to run many – then I will be a nervous wreck by the time I am much older. More tomorrow. Thanks for reading this far, if you got this far!!!!!

Cheers for now, and good health, good running, loads of happiness,
Craig

Maratona Ticino – Part the second.

A light run through farming areas and along the lake.

9:34:30 (and we change to present tense reporting). Tension is now at fever pitch. There is not much more talking, as everyone waits anxiously for the starter’s pistol. All around, the mountains tower up above the plain, much of which is covered by the beautiful Lago Maggiore, into which flows the swift Maggia River, after it winds its way down from the lofty source, nestled amongst the peaks of Ticino, carving out deep gorges and valleys, before emptying itself into the lake between Locarno and Ascona. The temperature is around 15°C, the air dry, the sky bright and sunny, the wind negligible. My knees move back and forth, as I stand, clad in my new yellow-ish runner’s vest and my skimpy runner’s shorts, my Nike runner’s shoes hardly keeping still thanks to the constant movement of my feet. My heart rate is already 91 bpm, and my whole being has become focussed on one goal – getting back to the same position I am in now, but about an hour and three-quarters later!!!! I’ve set my sights on completing the half-marathon in 1h50”, and will be more than happy with anything quicker, this being my first such race. The guy next to me picks his nose in nervous trepidation (PLEASE don’t eat it!!!!); the one in front of me scratches his left shoulder blade so hard, that blood starts flowing down his back; a kid among the spectators screams out for her father who is about to run away from her and achieve a personal best; I have a finger on the button of my HRM, ready to push it as soon as the pistol shoots a few more sparrows out of the sky. I cast a hasty glance upwards towards the deep blue Swiss heavens, and notice a flange (or is it a “gaggle”?) of vultures circling menacingly overhead, their beady eyes concentrated upon me. My mind is starting to hallucinate during these longest 30 seconds of my life.

9:35 A massive explosion rips through the centro sportivo, and all the energy I possess pushes the button on my Polar HRM and then rapidly moves up to the centre button of my iPod to begun my “Running Music List” and start the reception of signals from a sensor, deep within the sole of my Nike shoes. This is it – the moment of truth. My knees almost burst with energy as I wait for the first rows to rush off ahead. In Lausanne, I was about one third of the way back; here in lovely Locarno, I am near the front, and it’s a great feeling, surging forward only a second or so after the pistol fires. Clapping and roars of encouragement from the sidelines raise my motivation markedly, and I smile broadly, as I try not to trip over the runner in front of me. As one, we run off past the buildings of the centre, which were designed by the famous Swiss architect, Mario Botta, down towards the entrance and out onto the road. My eyes scan the pavements until I finally see Kurt, Rolf and Brigitte with the cameras focussing on me. A smile covers my entire face as I raise a hand and wave to my fans. It’ll be another ten kilometres before I see them again.

Suitably photographically recorded, I now concentrate on the task at hand – surviving 21,0975 km of hard running (I see in the first part, I noted the distance of the half-marathon as 20,0795 km – wrong distance!!!). The first kilometre sees us swarm over a bridge and onto a tertiary, yet still tarred, road through pleasant agricultural areas. There are some people standing along the route, and they clap and I see their mouths moving, as they ostensibly cheer, but my hearing is dominated by Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the USA” from my iPod. The group of us runners starts to spread out as each finds his rhythm and pace. Across the fields, I can see the stragglers from Group B, and sense I will soon be overtaking them, which gives me hope that I am not that slow after all.

First split – 1 km – 5’06”.

I’m not sure anymore what I have planned as a race pace, but feel that this is too slow. Or is it too fast? My mind is blank, and all those figures and notes I mentally made, have vanished. In former days, I used to teach mathematics – surely I can calculate a correct pace. Finally clarity rises from the dead, and I simply multiply 21,1 by 5 to get 105 approximately 105 minutes, or 1h45m. That’ll be a good time, but take it slowly – the first five kilometres are easy; those last five will be the big leveller. Don’t push it in the beginning.

There follows a long stretch of road through fields of some kind of agricultural products, probably on their last legs (who said that????? My legs are fine!!!!) as winter nears rapidly. I run smoothly and confidently, feeling great, looking around from time to time to enjoy the scenery. My heart rate is steady at around 159 bpm, which feels comfortable, and I can breathe easily. It all feels just as it should do. We are heading due east, with a sharp turn to the north-west at about the 3,2 km mark. What’s this I see before me? Two ladies in yellow shirts, with matching shorts, socks, shoes and hair, from the athletics club in Bergamo, Italia – walking!!!!!!!!! They must be from Group B. OK, maybe they are taking it easy. I’m sure 12 min/km is a wonderful, injury-free pace. Good luck, I think, as I roar past them, now enjoying “Radar Love” from the ‘70s – those were the days when music was music.

Splits:2 km – 4’46” – ah, faster, but feeling good.
3 km – 4’50” – snail pace again. Makes mental note to self: no more wine before a race!!!! Maybe.

Now heading due west, back towards Tenero, through farmlands; past livestock, lazily grazing in the warm sunshine; at 5 km is the first watering hole, but I am feeling fine, and run straight past it. Still going well, and feel strong and fit. The nagging ache I’d been having at the top of my right leg, seems to be quiet at the moment, thanks to the three Aspirin I took before we started – hope it doesn’t rear its ugly head after the race!!!! The irritated hip bursa is behaving itself, too.

Onwards we run. I’ve sort-of formed a silent camaraderie with a fellow runner as we head westwards, at one stage over a new, and spectacular pedestrian bridge which crosses a river. He’s a youngish guy, and we seem to be pacing each other, keeping together, both blocked out of conversation by iPods, but aware of each other’s presence. For several kilometres, our pace keeps us next to each other, and I wonder who he is, how long he has been running, why he runs, what his goals are.

4 km – 4’54” – ever slower. Have I hit “the wall”????
5 km – 4’56” – why don’t I just walk?
6 km – 4’48” – that’s better.
7 km – 4’47” – make way for a possible new winner!!!!
8 km – 4’54” – hmmm? It must be because of my shoes!!!
9 km – 4’51” – I can see the buildings of the centro sportivo looming up ahead.

There are more people now, lining the route, as we approach the halfway mark in Tenero. I am feeling wonderful, especially as I know I am about to see my supporters and will get my Gatorade. I clumsily take out a vanilla gel from my new belt, and hungrily devour the thick substance. That should keep me going for a while. I was advised, that such gels are not really required for a half-mara, but what the heck, one can’t hurt, and I did so want to try out my new belt!!!!!!

Buildings loom up now – the route passes between two, and there, about 100 metres ahead of me, stands Brigitte, arms high above her head, holding in one hand a large Gatorade (why wasn’t it a bottle of wine?????), and in the other a packet of tissues (just in case). I hardly stop, and feel like a member of a relay team as I take the bottle from Brigitte, beam a thanks to her, and continue on my quest for success. I don’t see Kurt and Rolf, but, as I find out later, they are on the other side of the road, recording my progress.

The Gatorade tastes great, but I cannot run and drink simultaneously – I guess I need to buy a book on that, too, or perhaps there’s a DVD out on the art of drinking while on the run!!! I spill some of it, manage to consume a quarter of the liquid, and start worrying about what I should do with the rest, when, out of the blue, it’s the 10-km mark, and a refreshments station offers the solution – instead of taking a cup of liquid from one of the many young helpers, I give one my Gatorade bottle, and yell out “Salute” (cheers) to her. She smiles, as I hurtle past, and accepts the partially empty bottle. I am now well hydrated and nourished – I hope – and continue forward toward Locarno.
10 km – 4’47” – that Gatorade was motivating, or was it Brigitte’s big smile?

We’re now running through a more built-up area – suburbia Locarno. There are a lot more people around, and that’s very motivating and encouraging. My spirits are high; my energy level is constant; I am enjoying myself to the max. My heart rate is now slightly higher – averaging around 160 bpm – perhaps it’s the excitement of all this inspiration from the spectators, and knowing, that my goal is coming ever closer. My running comrade is still with me, and I cast him the odd friendly grin, which is reciprocated.

11 km – 4’38” – going strongly and feel great.
12 km – 4’38” – ditto and no change. My fastest split thus far for the last two kilometres.

Remember yesterday’s blog and the mention of the hill – not to be thought about? Well, “the wall” is a doddle in comparison. I see this feature looming ominously ahead of me, bestrewn with runners, paces reduced. I feel like I’m carrying a 100-kg rucksack up Kilimanjaro. Admittedly, this is a slight exaggeration, as the hill was not that steep, but, after a nice, long, flat route, it feels like hell. Surprisingly enough, whilst my pace slows, my heart rate remains at around 161 to 162 bpm, and, accompanied by my silent companion, I reach the top unscathed. As they say, what goes up must come down, and that road surely had to descend at some stage back down to lake level.

13 km – 5’18” – that hill.

Ah, the bliss of a downwards run. It is like the feelings associated with the cessation of banging one’s head against a wall for half an hour. It actually descends in stages, and it’s on the descent, through some beautiful residential areas, that my non-vocal running mate decides it’s time to leave me in the dust, and he thunders on ahead, putting untold pressure onto his quads, while his aged colleague takes it easy, and enjoys the run down to the lake.

14 km – 5’06” – I’ve broken that hill, and almost my back, too.

The final descent brings me right into the middle of Locarno, next to the lake. It’s a beautiful area, full of grand hotels, tourists, boulevard coffee lounges, bars and restaurants, elegant people, and, today’s runners!!!! I know the route, and it’s not simply the turning point back to Tenero. Oh, no, those sneaky race organisers have added a little loop through the town centre and out to the motorway entrance, just to annoy us – I know how they think, those slave-drivers. So, it’s westwards I run again, before the 180° turn, back eastwards, and the trundle through the built-up area of central Locarno. Very few are there to cheer us on, so it’s a trifle boring, but it’s gratifying to see, that the streets have all been blocked off just for us runners.

Almost at the lake, and it’s the 15-km mark, characterised by a large refreshment station. That Gatorade seems like a year ago, so I set my sights on an outstretched hand bearing a cup of something, relieve the bearer of her load, and try to elegantly consume some of the content, only to discover, that it’s hot tea!!!!!!! What a strange thing to offer a runner who refuses to stop. I don’t even like tea at 8 o’clock in the morning, let along on a 21,1 km run!!!! Lips and tongue scalded, I hurl the unwelcome receptacle to the ground, and head, disgruntled, towards the last leg of the run.

15 km – 5’04” – the sight of the refreshment station must have caused the pace increase.

Now there are many people lining the streets, as the route winds its way along the smart banks of Lago Maggiore, past refined people, sipping cocktails and champagne in posh hotels. There is much applauding, and one can almost hear their thoughts: “What fools are they, who rush about scantily dressed on a Sunday?”.

It’s a beautiful, level route right next to the lake, which invites me back to the centro sportivo and my goal, but I’m tiring. It’s definitely a case of positive splits now, and my pace tells the unhappy tale. Nevertheless, I still feel strong and determined, and the thought of quitting doesn’t once enter my mind. With several kilometres having been run under 5 min/km, I could just make 1h45m on this, my first half-marathon. Time, and my legs, will tell.

16 km – 5’09” – not far now.

Despite my reduction in pace, I am overtaking many people now, and it’s encouraging. Every so often, I give a short burst of speed, and am soon overtaking a large, powerful, burly man who is sweating profusely. I resume my normal pace shortly thereafter, and we are soon running next to each other –another anonymous, silent running partner. His legs are hefty, and I am astonished, that he has run so far – he’s by no means fat, but a BIG, powerful guy. Makes me glad I am somewhat on the thin side. We run in step, and enjoy the company of each other.

17 km – 5’10” – slowly slowing down – damn, I had wanted a negative spilt – ah, well, first half-mara and all that, so I can learn from it.

We’re getting close to the finishing line now, and I can feel the excitement mounting with me. Across the lake, I can see the rowing club of the sports centre, and I rapidly calculate, that it’s only about 20 minutes or so, before I get to eat a banana again!!!!!

Wow, these last few kilometres are long – I’m sure the measurements are inaccurate. I run next to Big Guy, and we edge towards “Arrivo” in Tenero. I’m trying to keep a constant pace until just before the end, and then give it all I’ve got – we’ll see if I have the capacity to do that.

18 km – 5’12” – slower again, but only slightly.
19 km – 5’11” – wow, what an increase, although I hardly notice it. I feel good and strong.
20 km – 5’10” – my running buddy and I are still together.

It’s not far, now. Just over a kilometre to go, and lots of people are cheering us on. The route enters the borders of the sport centre, through an area which is heavily under construction and involves a few deft foot movements, then past the tennis courts, change rooms, a 90° turn to the left, and the last 200 metres!!!!!! This is it. There are crowds of people along the last stretch of the route. Lots of clapping and encouraging, but I can hardly hear it, as I have “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen filling me head (how fitting – The Boss at the beginning and end of my race!!!).

I forget to push the HRM button for a split at 21 km, but don’t care – it’s the home run now, and I’m going to make it. This is amazing. I fill up with pride and happiness, and start putting on that final spurt. Big Guy does the same, but I see he is going to beat me by about two metres. My heart rate gets up to 166, and, metre by metre, I come closer to the end of my first half-marathon. I still feel great – better than I have ever felt in my life. Fifty metres, 49 metres, 48 metres, a little faster than a few metres before. The arch looms ever nearer. I want to scream with joy – I have almost made it. Big Guy overtakes a lady runner, and is now three metres ahead of me.

And then, with a final burst of energy, I am over the line!!!!!!!!!! I HAVE DONE IT – I HAVE COMPLETED MY FIRST HALF-MARATHON, and in this beautiful region. I am the proudest person on the face of the earth – and yet, strangely enough, as a woman official scans my number bib for my official result, my thoughts stray into the future and my first full-marathon, which will be either in Paris or Zürich in spring.

21,0975 Km – 5’47” – the finishing line!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am elated; I am ecstatic; I am on top of the world. I look at my Polar HRM to find that my time is 1h45m07s (I later learn, that my official time is 1h45m14s). I just cannot believe it. It’s the most amazing thing I have ever done, and I want to do it again and again and again. Tears rush into my eyes, but I don’t care. I see Big Guy, and go over to high-five him – he’s a German, and is as overwhelmed as I am. We hug, a big sweaty marathoner’s hug, and wish each other well, expressing the hope that we will see each other again at another meet.

I have made it. I had expected 1h50m; hoped for 1h40m but am wildly happy with 1h45m – and all that, with not all that much proper training. My next planned major race is the Semi-Marathon de Paris on 2nd March, 2008 – I have plenty of time, ‘til then, to get in proper and scientific training. But right now, I need a drink and I need to find Kurt, Rolf and Brigitte. It seems like half an hour since I achieved my success, but could not have been more than two minutes, before they are with me. Despite all my sweat, there are big hugs and embraces, congratulatory words, queries as to how I feel, and finally a large drink!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It’s been a long race for me, but a good one. I felt strong all the way. I never once doubted my ability to complete the distance. I was in top form, and could have gone on, if I were in a longer race.

I drink my juice, and eat my banana, and then get down to some stretching and warm-downs. My legs feel tired, but fine – no aches or pains, no injuries evident. Within 5 minutes, my heart rate is down to 100, and still falling when I turn off the HRM. I want to scream from the roofs that I have made it. I did it. I did it. I did it. I have run a half-marathon. And I’m not even a spring chicken, but 51 years old. Damn it, I feel amazing.

We hang around for a while, and watch the first full-marathoners come in. I’m too happy with my own success to worry about their details, but I still watch in awe as the first three or four cross the finishing line, and I can’t help wondering what position I will be in when I cross that point in Paris or and/or Zürich next year.

There is one big disappointment, and that is, that no medals will be given out. Somehow I feel they belong to any race of this standing, and I feel let down. At least I have a T-shirt and my number bib, and I know, that Kurt and Rolf have taken lots of photos and videos of me en route, so I will have lots of memories of the race, but I still would like a medal.

We leave about an hour later, and drive back to Carona. My mind is still on the race, and I re-live many aspects of it for the rest of the day. It’s still the most magnificent weather, and I cannot believe the luck I had in that respect. Back home, I rush off a few e-mails and fmails, and then collapse into a deep, hot bubble bath, with a large glass of fine white wine at hand, and stay there for half an hour. It is the most beautiful bath in the whole world, and I never want to get out of it – at least, it until the next race.

I finally do emerge, and make my way upstairs to the others for another celebratory drink. That evening, we go out to a fine restaurant for dinner. What do I have????? PASTA!!!!!!! I must be more hooked on running than I thought. I am – I just love running, and cannot get enough of it. This long wait for my next race at the beginning of March in Paris is going to drive me crazy, but I need the time to train well, because I know, I will not be happy with 1h45m in Paris!!!!!!!!

I didn’t sleep very well that night, even though we were in Carona. My mind was working overtime, and I think I re-ran the race a dozen times before I finally found some rest. We left for Chur the next morning, back to everyday life. I had a day’s rest, but yestereve was back running – a recovery 7.13 km.

So, that’s it. I now have a quarter- and a half-marathon under my belt, and I go forward with great excitement towards intense, but sensible, training, and hopefully plenty more successful and great races.

Thanks for reading all this, and may you all have a great run today, and lots of success and joy from running in the future. No doubt, there will be more blogs from me after my next races – maybe not all as long as these!!!!!
Yours in running,
Craig