Happily Ever After

Life in The Rural Retreat with a beautiful wife, three cats, garden wildlife, a camera, a computer – and increasing amounts about running

Earlier posts can be found on Adventures of a Lone Bass Player, where this blog began life. Recent entries can be found here.

Another Year, Another Plan

by Russell Turner - 18:15 on 03 January 2021

I’ve five weeks’ to go until Edinburgh Marathon training begins. I could spend the wait by covering some random distances or times, such as today’s first effort of 2021 which saw me run to Jemimaville Garage and back – 3.6 miles in a comfortable 37mins – but I have a cunning plan.

The plan in question is one I came across a while back then set aside for whenever it would be useful: a four-week, five-runs-a-week, Runners’ World 10k schedule. If I begin on Tuesday, and the weather stays free of snow, ice and gales (not a given at this time of year) I’ll make my first PB attempt of the year on January 31, which sounds like an auspicious date.

This would, of course, be another virtual effort. There are a few socially distanced races to be found, although I guess none will survive lockdown, but none would be handy for me and an overnight stay elsewhere doesn’t currently appeal, even if it were allowed.

Virtual medals – not subtle

I’d like a medal to mark my success (I’m being positive) but gaudiness is the hallmark of most virtual race bling, which doesn’t appeal. If I don’t find anything suitable I’ll settle for a good new 10k time: anything under 53mins would get the year off to a good start. Let’s hope that the weather does its bit.

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