141 replies to this topic

[lisa1979]

Thought I'd get this started as some of us don't have blogs.

Canberra was to be my third marathon and my first ultra. And what a day it was.

I drove down from Sydney with my other half the day before the race and we booked into the Brassey Hotel (very nice suite). We wandered to the expo, which was quite low-key, and I got my race number and the red ribbon for the ultra. I'd be wearing that proudly! We then walked across the park to find some grub in Kingston. I hungrily eyed the pie shop but after all that training decided to go for something a bit more suitable. (Note to self- have a dirty pie with ketchup after the race). We turned a corner and found the most gorgeous Belgian Bar (complete with Leffe, Hoegaarden and Stella). Was I jealous ordering a lemonade when my other half sat there happily sipping a Belgian Bock Bier from a fluted glass!!?

Being a pom and a Sydneysider, I was pleasantly surprised to see the beautiful autumnal leaves of oak trees surrounding the lake. Canberra had always been described to me in rather disparaging terms, but I felt it had a certain calmness and dignity to it, rather like cities in Germany or Holland.

We decided on an early Vietnamese dinner. The chilli tofu and rice did me very nicely, thank you very much. We then went back to the hotel to relax and watch TV, which is something of a novelty as we don't have one at home. I nodded off just after I was sure that Manly had beat the Rabbitohs (Go the Sea Eagles!).

I slept pretty well, albeit broken by several checks of the clock. It was finally 5.40am, and time to get prepared! Brekkie was oats, honey and milk that I had brought with me. I sipped some Gatorade and water too, had a stretch and got my kit on. I left the hotel with 30 mins to go, as it was only a 4 minute jog to the start line. I felt pretty good and ready to run. Then the time came to line up and off we all toddled in the milky autumn sunshine.

Now I don't want to enter into the pacing argument, but it was rather annoying for me to get stuck in a 'bus' when I had no intention of running with a big group of people following a balloon. The first 10km consisted of me trying to escape said bus, but given that I was running at 4:30 pace in the early stages of the race, that was bound to happen. Despite this, the first loop around the parliament house was very pleasant and enjoyable. I barely knew I was running and had some nice little chats with people including slowmo, who seemed to be going well. The first full lap around the lake was great - no pain and no mental worries about 'could I do it?'. I had no doubt that I would do it, after all my training. My only doubt at this stage was "why am I near the back of the pack?". This question often visits me in races in Australia, where big city marathon fields are much smaller than in the UK and the average pace as a consequence is much faster. I am sometimes torn between the feeling of pride at having achieved my goals and the knowledge that others have run faster than me. I know that this is something that is resolved in planning and training, not in the race itself.

Anyway, the race was going very well for me and I chatted to some very nice people along the way. The leaders passed me just before the turnaround on the first big loop and looked very strong. The race progressed well and after 25km the aches and pains started, but nothing chronic. I noticed throughout the run that I was getting faster and faster and by the 30km mark I had more than six minutes in the bag. Instead of slowing down, I threw away my home-made pacing wristband, just kept comfortable and steady and that worked for me.

The CR cheersquad greeted me at the Barton end of the loops and were a very welcome sight! Thanks especially to Sook54 and Emjay for words of encouragement. My girlfriend was also there to give me Kendal Mint Cake (the stuff that got Edmund Hillary up Everest), which was a life saver.

The second big lap was also fun. I was leaving people in my wake at this stage. There seemed to be a lot of people who had gone off too fast and were struggling or walking and this is where all my long run training really kicked in. I got faster and was pleased to cross the 42.195 finish line in 4:26:48, just 2 mins slower than my PB. The race announcer called out my name and said I was finishing, but I indicated to the marshals and kept plodding through the line, out through the 50km chute and back onto the course.

Suddenly all the supporters got much more deferential, as if some magical point had been broken and suddenly I was a whole different runner. Before it was "go on, you can do it!" or "only 2km to go!". Suddenly it was "wow- you're crazy" and "go ultra-runner!". It's amazing what an extra 500m can do for your street-cred.

The last portion was a joy. Yes, I was tired, but I felt like I was on the home strait and I felt pretty much the same as I did at 35km. I kept running, out to the lake and along the beautiful shores through the parkland to the second bridge. All the runners gave an encouraging word or a nod to each other, as if we were all members of a secret society. I was *very* pleased to see the last turnaround and to scoop up three jelly beans for the way back. Go Glucose. The crazy coolrunners with the banners ("You're nearly Dunny!") were just packing up as I ran past for the final time. People were out riding bikes and strolling along the bike path, seemingly unaware that we had all been running for over 5 hours. And why should they care! ?

It was a pleasure and a joy to run the final km along the road through the park and to see the finish line up ahead, powering on through the last marathon finishers and to feel strong. This is how I wanted it to feel. This is why I trained and sacrificed for months and months. This is why I run.

I finished with a last sprint, kicking my knees up and powering my arms through the line. My time was 5:11:38, 18 mins ahead of my goal and very happy.

What's next? The six-foot track and a 4 hour marathon.

(edited for typos!)

Edited by lisa1979, 20 April 2009 - 09:13 PM.

[blair]

Congrats Lisa on a well executed race. My report is on my blog here.

[wombatoutofhell]

Great repoert Lisa-sounds like it all went pretty much to plan.
Read yours as well Balri-Nice effort although you seemed to be doing it hard.  Never mind-Gold Coast is only 11 weeks away!

[Paul Every]

Well done Lisa.

You really finished strongly with 45 minutes for the final 7.8km. At rough calculations, that's close to 4 hour marathon pace. Excellent.

[flyingemu]

RACE REPORT!!!!!

The morning of the marathon I woke feeling pretty great, I got a fair amount of sleep even. Going to the start with my pockets full of Gu and feeling confident about my training, I quickly ran into about a thousand other CR's and we psyched each other up. Talk of beer bets and race strategy was a welcome distraction, but I was itching to get started. I found the 4hr pacer and got in a bit behind. Then, the gun goes and we're off!

I settled into a perfect 5:40 pace to get my 4hr time and I was feeling great! In fact, the first 7km I was SPOT ON this pace and I gave myself a pat on the back for not going out too fast. Then, for some inexplicable reason, my next 4km were about 5:20 pace, and despite feeling good, I slowed myself down to 5:40's again. Right.

My time at half-way was 1:57:30, so on pace for 3:55. A little quick, but if I slowed down the back end then that's OK, I was still good for 4hrs. Hmmm. Things got a little harder from 24km to 30km, but only a bit and I was still on for time. Then....  my 31st km was 6:00. 32 was 6:15. Oh dear. Then 6:11, then 6:20. Ouch. Then 6:35 then 6:50 and 7:02. OK, the sub 4hr was gone but lets see if I can hang on and finish?  On the small uphill on-ramp to the final crossing of the bridge, my poor legs couldn't run and I had to walk. At the top of the bridge I ran down and got to the bottom but my legs again didn't want to keep going! My heart rate was good but my legs just stopped working properly. I couldn't make them go! So the next 4km I walked with little bits of running. By the time I got close to 41km, I could hear the BRILLIANT CR cheer squad again and somehow found the energy to run again. I almost cried when I passed them, it was so great!

So the crowds were cheering and I rounded the bend for the final 195m. A sudden rush of adrenelin (otherwise known as my 26th wind) saw me somehow SPRINT the last 195m (in just 51secs!)  to finish in 4:22:57. A long way from 3:58:12 but I didn't care! I finished! Wooo hooo!  And it was soooo great that the volunteers put the medal around my neck, and even took my timing chip off and tied my shoelace for me.

What a fantastic day!

Thanks to all who have offered support these past months! For all of you who have just finished Canberra, CONGRATS! FOr those of you who are still on the way - keep it up! It's sooooo worth it! I'm still on a high, and I hope it lasts for a long time to come!

And lastly, a MASSIVE thanks to the BRILLIANT cheer squad, at cowbell corner, and around the course. You really gave me a lift!

[blair]

Well done Emu. I was glad to hear you had finished soon after me after you had looked completely spent when we had our little chat at 39km.

[flyingemu]

balri, on Apr 20 2009, 01:33 PM, said:

Well done Emu. I was glad to hear you had finished soon after me after you had looked completely spent when we had our little chat at 39km.

Thanks, your pep talk must've worked... I ran the last km  

[mgi11a]

What a difference a week makes,

After what was a very ordinary lead up to Canberra with achilles and ITB issues early in the year I was resigned to going down and doing 10km. But after some really good tempo runs and a well paced 1/2 marathon in the last month I decided only last saturday to do the marathon.

I managed to score a bed at my neices place which was only a km from the start, so a nice leisurely stroll to the start line was in order, so how was I to know that walking through Kingston at 6am on a Sunday morning wearing a white knee length plastic poncho, gloves and a CR cap would draw attention to myself. So after some taunts from some local youths I made it to the start unscathed.

With no real idea of what condition I was in I decided to start around 5min/km pace with ratdog and see how things went. The 3:30 bus disappeared into the distance as we kept a steady pace around 4:55/km, by 14km we had caught up with the bus and I asked ratty if he wanted to tag along or keep our pace, we close the latter and by the time we had crossed the bridge we were in front of the bus and slowly pulling away.

We went through the 1/2 in 1:42:30 and having not gone out to hard I started to think of finish times and knew sub 3:30 was achievable. At 28km the mind games started with myself, having not gone past it in a training run this year I gave myself a stern talking to and convinced myself that i'd been here before so today was no different.

By 32km my right calf would give a little twinge every now and then and the downhill to the turnaround wasnt helping any, I was actually happy for the hill after the turn as it gave me a chance to stretch my calves a bit, by the time I made it back on the bridge at 38km I felt stronger then I had in my previous 2 marathons and was still managing to churn out 5min/km.

As I made the 40km mark with about 2mins in the bank Sean the 3:30 pacer and his charges came up behind, apart from the 200m I ran with the bus at 14km this was the only time I ran with him, thanks to him and his wonderfull words of encouragement I was able to hold my pace and got to within 800m of the finish line when disaster, a cramp in my right hammy that forced me to stop.

So close I thought and i'm going to be stumped by a cramp, thankfully a quick stretch and rub made it bearable to walk, but I didnt know if I could get there under 3:30 walking, my heart sank, don't do this too me I yelled. Sean had slowed to encourage some other runners so he was behind me when the cramp hit, when he came up beside he once again got me moving. As I rounded the bend and headed towards the finish the official clock was still out of focus but I could here the comentator say there was about 45sec to go in which time I had to cover 100m.

As the clock came into focus about 30m out I knew i'd done it. Not a PB, but a result that 3hrs29min25sec earlier I just didn't expect. Thanks to Ratdog for his support and endless energy in supporting others for the 34km or so we ran together, and congratulations on a huge PB, and thankyou again to Sean the 3:30 pacer, i'm not sure if he's a CR and will read this but i'm sure there will be a CR who knows him and passes my thanks on again.

Loved the coarse, loved the atmosphere, loved the event. Now just have to convince mrs mgilla that I really should go again next year.

Cheers

mgilla

[funrunner63]

mgi11a, on Apr 19 2009, 11:04 PM, said:

At 28km the mind games started with myself, having not gone past it in a training run this year I gave myself a stern talking to and convinced myself that i'd been here before so today was no different.

Would love to have a piece of that stern talking too around the 28k mark. Once again, well done Mick- great report, some valuable inspiration for Gold Coast,

Funrunner aka Craig

[MrD]

I think i'll get my report out of the way early...

Was thinking this could be the one where I'd take the next step and go under 2:45 for the first time. Probably not ideal preparation going into it but knew that the speed and endurance of late was working well together so was confident of pulling something out.

Went out pretty solidly yet still holding back somewhat. Didn't see the 10km marker so not sure of the split, maybe around the 36 minute mark, yet no one was really passing me so thought it was a good indicator that I was where I wanted to be. Made a little detour down a wrong road but nothing too major before being called back by an official, watch out for Swaggers' post, he might have something to say about this!

Got to half way in right on 80 flat and though this could be the day. Was planning 81 or 82, but knew the first half is quicker than the second half so accepted that I was a little ahead a schedule. Ran well to 30km and clocked 1:56 and still right on track and starting to get excited knowing it was only 12km to go. However, things started to fall apart not long after, hitting the wall at about 35km and going over that bridge into the headwind felt like I was going backwards. The last 5km were pretty hard, mentally and physically. Was passed by about 12 runners in the last 2km as I was slowing right up and losing all the great time I had made in the early stages. Passed some poor bloke in the home stretch that obviously was suffering more than me, and said "I know how you feel". Gave it all I had but couldn't go the distance, either that or poor pacing. Maybe I will try these GUs that everyone seems to down!

As punishment I pushed my frame around for the extra 8km and was surprised to finish 7th place in the ultra.

Congratualations to everyone that finished, especially debutants, I watched a lot of people come in and the emotions on display are what it's all about.

Well done to Uncle Dave. What a run. Apart from yours however, I would like to nominate the 'run of the day' to 25 year old Tim McKenzie. I met Tim at the Narrabeen AllNighter earlier this year and knew immediately that he had the potential to take his running to the next level. Yesterday, on debut I believe, Tim ran 2:39:59 to finish 8th and then go around and came 3rd in the 50k in 3:12:14 is nothing short of awesome. Remember, this is a 25 year old and I'm pretty sure he hasn't been running for all that long a time. Well done Tim.

[JessicaJane]

Fantastic work out there to everyone, what an awesome day! And some great running... Keep the reports coming, love reading them... Started my blog, hope this work...

http://www.coolrunni...ajane/index.php?

[MFL3]

flyingemu, on Apr 20 2009, 01:16 PM, said:

I settled into a perfect 5:40 pace to get my 4hr time and I was feeling great! In fact, the first 7km I was SPOT ON this pace and I gave myself a pat on the back for not going out too fast. Then, for some inexplicable reason, my next 4km were about 5:20 pace, and despite feeling good, I slowed myself down to 5:40's again. Right.

My time at half-way was 1:57:30, so on pace for 3:55. A little quick, but if I slowed down the back end then that's OK, I was still good for 4hrs. Hmmm. Things got a little harder from 24km to 30km, but only a bit and I was still on for time. Then.... my 31st km was 6:00. 32 was 6:15. Oh dear. Then 6:11, then 6:20. Ouch. Then 6:35 then 6:50 and 7:02. OK, the sub 4hr was gone ....... By the time I got close to 41km, I could hear the BRILLIANT CR cheer squad again and somehow found the energy to run again. I almost cried when I passed them, it was so great!

Thanks to all who have offered support these past months! For all of you who have just finished Canberra, CONGRATS! FOr those of you who are still on the way - keep it up! It's sooooo worth it! I'm still on a high, and I hope it lasts for a long time to come!

And lastly, a MASSIVE thanks to the BRILLIANT cheer squad, at cowbell corner, and around the course. You really gave me a lift!

Congratulations on a fantastic effort, Flyingemu.  It's amazing but my splits were very close to yours.  

I'd been trying to shake off a cold all week and drove down on Sat with my family then dragged around Questacon and feeling worse and worse as the day progressed...didn't feel too confident for marathon # 2.  Met CR Bob F at the Expo....an inspiration running his 25th Canberra marathon, and 189th(?) overall.  

Still, woke up on Sunday morning feeling OK and went through my usual pre-race routine and managed to get to the start line just on time.  Started off with my Striders 3:55 pace band...and like Flying Emu, was very much on track, just sticking to my plan rather than trying to keep up with everyone else.  Parliament House came and went and I thought that was the worst of it.  Heart rate was good and the injuries that I hoped I'd shaken off (glutes, ITB, metatarsal...) weren't around.  23km came and went according to plan, although the left foot numbness and pain my left toe started to twinge around then and I started to worry.  24km to 25km slowed down to 6:30-6:45 splits...and my spirits lifted with the BRILLIANT CR cheersquad, followed by my family cheering loudly (mini-MFL3 was running and showing off his Kids Marathon medal and I was so happy for him in his first 'marathon').  

Plodded on, and the elation lasted about 2km.  Sadly from then, my splits hovered around the 6:30 mark and every step became painful...even my right foot started going numb.  I passed a CR walking on the last bridge and gave him a 'GCR' (I wonder if that was you Flying Emu?).  The mind games were well in full swing....passed Marathon Man around the 39km mark...but I knew that I was close to the end so I hung on.  Couldn't stop, wouldn't stop or else I wouldn't be able to start running again.  I thought I could get a sub-4:10 but with 1.2km to go, knew it wasn't going to happen.  My right hammy started twinging and I slowed down again so it wouldn't cramp.  Saw my family again and I lifted, high-5'd them and kept going.

Looked up and happy to get a new PB.  4:12:20 gun, 4:11:20 net.  

Now the post-mortem starts about where and why it went wrong, and if I'm capable of cracking the 4 hr mark.  I know it's not aerobic fitness.  My HR was fine, but unfortunately, my legs and muscles weren't up to the task despite the training.  New, different injuries compared to my marathon debut, so wondering if I need different orthoses etc etc.  Oh well...I've got a few weeks to wonder until the SMH Half.

Congratulations to everyone who took part and hope you were successful.  Thank you to the organisers and volunteers for a fantastic, well-organised event.  Thank you to the crowd for the support, fellow CRs on the course for the pep talks....and the biggest THANK YOU to the CR Cheersquad for the uplifiting, loud cheering that came at much needed moments!!!  Also the CR in pink top at Capitol Hill...and later, under the bridge...your encouragement was much appreciated....the male CR who encouaged every CR he saw, giving us high-5s (last around the 32km mark).

Thank you.

[volc]

JessicaJane, on Apr 20 2009, 06:19 PM, said:

Fantastic work out there to everyone, what an awesome day! And some great running... Keep the reports coming, love reading them... Started my blog, hope this work...

http://www.coolrunni...ajane/index.php?

30 minute pb! That's awesome. Congratulations.

[TFive]

mgi11a, on Apr 20 2009, 03:04 PM, said:

Thanks to Ratdog for his support and endless energy in supporting others for the 34km or so we ran together, and congratulations on a huge PB, and thankyou again to Sean the 3:30 pacer,

Ditto, Ratty was amazing ! I had him on my tail for at least 21kms - his endless banter was a constant source of entertainment. The 3.30 pacer was also fantastic even though I wasn't running with his group, he gave me heaps of encouragement when I passed him and then again when he passed me at 30kms.

I'm happy with 3.37 backing up after Tokyo, but my head just wasn't in it - I really lacked motivation and when the going gets tough you definitely need it.

It was great to catch up with CR's at lunch and dinner. Big thanks to the cheer squad. Congrats to everyone who ran particularly the first timers. A special congrats to Cliffold - I'm really going to have to lift my game  

Uncle Dave   I bet you are very happy with your prizes  

Edited by sook54, 21 April 2009 - 07:59 AM.
fix quotes

[rachinaus]

I ran four half marathons in 2008, I know why I did the first, but I’m not really sure what prompted me to sign up for the next three...I guess it’s the intangible something that compels all runners to keep signing up and running races. Over the course of the year I knocked 13 minutes off my half time and - more importantly - ran under 2 hours, my personal criteria for signing up to run a marathon.

Perfect timing since it meant I could begin the long hard training back in December for the Canberra Marathon on Sunday!

In the end up it was probably the hardest and most rewarding thing I have ever done.

By all accounts it was a perfect Canberra Day for the run – I echo Lisa 1979’s sentiments about the autumnal colours – Canberra seemed different, almost European compared to Sydney. I am not inclined to get overly nervous or anticipate things too much in advance but Thursday and Friday in the office last week were perhaps not my most productive days. But I was calm on Saturday morning – just glad it was the weekend and to be getting ready to head down. I got nervous only as we arrived in Canberra and I thought ‘I’m going to be running on these streets tomorrow’ (being a little navigationally challenged it is highly likely I was thinking that as we drove through streets that we actually went nowhere near on the day!).

We had a quiet dinner with a few other CR’s and an early night. The plan was to get up at 5am so as to be fully fed, watered and awake before the off.

At the start line it was the usual distracting banter with all the other CR’s - newbie’s and experienced runners alike, talking it up about the beer bet (well done Stella for winning that) and making sure we all had our CR FTM class of 09 badge on display. I was feeling pumped and ready to go and enjoying the fantastic atmosphere and the anticipation of everyone.

Then we were off and I made a real effort not to run the first km at some excited newbie super pace. I managed to do that for about 6kms – unfortunately not the next 13 which on reflection (and the Garmin data freshly downloaded) were really too fast by at least 10 secs per km for me to ultimately end up near my 3hr 50 goal.  The Garmin lost its usefulness as anything other than a pace checker by this time as I realised I was out of synch with the km markers as I had started it under the clock and not over the mat – I need to learn more about the functions as I could have km checked the way Balri did.

I thought I passed through 21kms in about 1hour 54mins but I think it was quicker than that....and in reality I paid for it in the second half.  22km-32km average pace about 5:50, 33km-42km average pace about 6:25 (except of course for the final ‘sprint’).

From 22 kms it was harder than I felt it should have been at that stage, and when I saw Horrie the 4:00 pacer was gaining on me at the 35km turnaround (and shouting for me not to let him catch me up) I couldn’t pick up the pace, only hold it - he passed me at the 39/40km mark!

Gun time 4:00:44, Chip time 4:00:01.

So how do I feel? Absolutely fantastic, still a bit emotional, so proud of myself for having achieved this amazing effort, sore, tired (off work today thankfully) and I have learned loads from the experience. Nothing in training really prepared me for this and the sheer mental effort to keep going especially in the last 3kms when all I wanted to do was stop, stop, stop, stop, stop......

I have spent the weekend being with and talking about running to a level of detail that leaves me owing a massive thanks to my partner Mark for enduring it and supporting me (though he did a good job of finding some non runners to talk to – they were scarce ) .

Congratulations to all everyone who ran – first-timers and pb’ers, experienced runners and everyone else in between. A particular well done to Cliffold on getting his goal.

A massive thanks to the cheer squad – led by my running buddy Sook - who got me round that bend a few times at a faster pace than I would otherwise have run, and to BernieG – a lone voice elsewhere on the route shouting me on each time I passed. And to Seris and her husband and CR Bod during the run for their encouragement, and Littleblackpug for the encouraging pat on the back as she snuck past me coming over the Commonwealth Ave bridge for the last time and UpandAtom for her words of encouragement at the 35km drink stop (and the Striders shirt to chase and overtake in the last 500metres ) and all the other CR’s for their encouragement, support and congratulations before during and after the run.

Finally a massive thanks to Eagle for all the support and advice he has given me during the last few months. He has helped me train in such a way that I found the mental and physical strength to keep going at the end.

So.....Did I think ‘why am I doing this?’....No. Did I say ‘never again’?.......errr Nope. Can I walk at a normal pace again yet? ...nuh-uh. Will I have another go?.........look at that chip time,...how could I not?

Cheers

[Uncle Dave]

Hey guys,

It was an awesome experience, which I've struggled to put into words, but here is my attempt.

Amanda, yes I was very happy with my prizes. A couple off-handed comments made me think there might have been a special bonus in there too, but alas I was mistaken!  

Unc

PS - Doggy, Eagle and Seb get special mentions in my book for their fast, enduring and courageous performances.

[PeterPlodder]

Race report from a first time marathoner

I'm a fairly new runner, only having taken up running last October with c25k. Perhaps a bit soon to try a marathon, but I didn't want to wait a full year for the next one (yes, there are other marathons but Canberra is my home town).

Time wise, I originally thought I would take around 4:30 or possibly 4:15, but I had managed to run 10k in under 50 minutes and the various race calculators suggested a time of 4:00 was possible. And so the Horriemobile beckoned.

On marathon day my biggest fear was sleeping in. I needn't have worried, I woke up an hour before the alarm went off (I woke at the same time this morning as well, it seems my body clock has been thrown out a bit). I got to Telopea with lots of time to spare but I only ended up joining the start a few minutes before the gun (damn toilet queue). I couldn't actually make my way through to the white balloons, so I thought I would just keep them in sight.

I started out fine at a fairly steady 5:40/k, but the white balloons seemed to be slowly drawing away from me and eventually went out of sight.

I made the halfway mark in under 2:01. But I was slowing down badly, to around 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, cripes. The 4:15 group passed me, and later on so did the 4:30 group. Still I plodded on, although the 500m before the final turn to the finish line felt very loooong.

Nett time was 4:32:25 (gun time 4:33:15), so I just made it into the top 1000.

Pity about the severe fade in the second half. I suspect it was partly due to dehydration (when I got home I was 3kg lighter). I obviously needed to drink more, but it's difficult to drink from a plastic cup without spilling half of it. Next time I'll try taking a straw. Or simply walk through the drink stations.

I'm very happy to finish in one piece, although my legs are still complaining a fair bit. And I have a target for next time: train better and break 4:00 (might take a while). I've also now got my first race t-shirt (what, doesn't everyone do a marathon as their first race?)

[Whippet gal]

I've blogged a longer race report here

In short - absolutely, completely (and very happily) surprised with my result yesterday - 2:58:57. It was a 31 second PB and fifth woman home. Bonus!

The CR support was brilliant - I just wanted to hug everybody that yelled out encouragement, especially when things started to get a bit difficult near the end.

Congrats to everyone who ran, but a couple of special congrats to Uncle Dave (well done mate - you are phenomenal), Stella (great first mara), Tim Rowe (an amazing debut) and Verity (who won the women's 50k and is someone I have always looked up to).

Great to meet so many CRs, although I seem to have a lot of trouble remembering real names and CR names and who belongs to who!

Very happy!  


*Edit: CM website says I was 1 second quicker than I thought. Changed it here.

Edited by Whippet gal, 20 April 2009 - 08:48 PM.

[flyingemu]

PeterPlodder, on Apr 20 2009, 06:57 PM, said:

Race report from a first time marathoner

I'm a fairly new runner, only having taken up running last October with c25k. Perhaps a bit soon to try a marathon, but I didn't want to wait a full year for the next one (yes, there are other marathons but Canberra is my home town).

Nett time was 4:32:25 (gun time 4:33:15), so I just made it into the top 1000.

Amaaaazing effort to go from c25k to 4:32 marathon in 6 months! Awesome!

[40kmPassOut]

Hi All,

Well, finally my Melbourne demons have been laid to rest! As you would know, I went face down in the gutter at the 40km mark in Melbourne and now I can put those memories to bed!

3:17:12, nearly 2 minutes quicker than expected on the day so I am WRAPPED!
Felt strong all race, never stopped for a rest, ran the last 2.2km's in 9min flat.

To be honest, on the day I probably had a 3:10 to 3:12 in me, but obviously I held back a little to ensure I got to the finish and I am proud to have got there.

Will put a few pic's of my tatoo on the site once I get it!!

Well done to Uncle Dave, Timbo, Eagle and everyone else who laid it on the line.

Keep Pushin'

[Bull]

All went to plan, well almost!

I only decided to enter 4 weeks ago after a sound 30 km race with SMC. I'd already entered the Christchurch Marathon, booked my flights and accommodation and prepared specifically around that event. However, I did my marathon debut at Canberra last year and couldn't resist the temptation to race again this year. The goal was to run sub 2:48:48 (4 minute km's) and the plan was to sit on even splits of roughly 4 minutes for 32 km's and then assess my options. The first option and preferred one was to keep going and try and finish strongly. The alternative if my goal wasn't within reach was to withdraw at 32 km's and treat it as a time trial in preparation for Christchurch.

The race started nicely. I cruised through the first loop around Parliament House in slightly under 4:00 minute km minute pace. I stuck with a small group of runners, but despite feeling fantastic I decided to let them go when they picked up the pace. Things continued to go smoothly until 16 km's when I felt the sudden urge for #2's.  At 19 km's I was forced to detour to the nearest portaloo, which cost me about 45 seconds.

I cruised through the half way mark in 84:08 feeling great. Conditions got a lot tougher though in the second half as the S to SSE winds picked up. I maintained my goal race pace though and reached the 32 km mark feeling fine, so the decision to continue on and complete the extra 10 km's wasn't a tough one. At the 35 km mark things were getting hard and I knew that I was going to have to dig really deep if I was to achieve my goal. Things progressively got tougher towards the finish but the encouragenment from the Canberra public roadside was really uplifting. My cardio fitness was great but my legs were really aching. I made a poor decision to wear light weight racing flats and my quads suffered a real battering.  A mistake I won't repeat.

With 1.195 km's to go, I was on the cusp of achieving my 2:48:48 goal but it was touch and go. I knew it would be really close with the final stretch uphill and into the wind. It hurt like hell, but I dug deep and reached the finish in 2:48:38. A mere 10 seconds inside my goal time, but extremely satisfying.

Overall a 4 minute PB and roughly even splits of 84:08 & 84:30. The pain isn't quite as bad after a PB.

A pity Saturday's conditions didn't hold up, when the wind was more benign and the temperature a little cooler, but that's just wishful thinking.

A great event and extremely well supported by a very generous and supportive public. I love running in the ACT. I'll be back for my 3rd consecutive Canberra 1/2 marathon in 4 weeks time.

Congratulations to Uncle Dave!  Tim Rowe probably went out a little hard, but I'm sure he'll learn heaps from the race and run many great marathons in the future. Plenty of other great performances. Too many to list.

As for Christchurch on 31/5, I'll probably do the 1/2 marathon over there. I love the course there. Pancake flat. Hopefully it's not too cold though.

[Colsy]

Well done all!

[nando]

Posted a few photos from the Saturday runs here

[Wheretonow]

Hi everyone you all have some excellent stories to tell i only wish i could put type to computer so well, I had a great trip down to canberra and went to the pasta party and met some very nice people there (forgive me as i have an extremely bad memory for names) there was heaps to eat and was even encouraged to have seconds if we desired, There were some very good stories shared by the guest speakers and i had a good time, I got up on time for toast and jam for brekkie but was lacking in my customary 3 bananas oh well you cant have everything, Went to the start and put my bag in the hall and then out of sheer boredom walked 2 laps of the school as i wanted to save my actual running for the race, I came into this event pretty well underdone however i still did pretty good keeping my pace till about the 30k mark when i started getting those nasty cramp twinges i was using my stop cramp spray every time i felt a twinge but they always drag me down i managed to jog most of the way although the jog / walk / jog scenario developed from 38k onward and i managed to struggle home (many thanks to the crowd) in 3:53 and as soon as i hit the mat i fully locked up with cramp and yelled out obsenities (my apolagies to the women and children within earshot) but by crikie it hurt. I put my little 50k ribbon back in my pocket at the 38k mark as i knew then there was no hope in hell that i was gonna finish the 50k. so now it's time to train for the Gold coast marathon and i am gonna change my tactics my long runs will now be mid week so i wont miss any.

Oh also on the photo web site a 2 minute video is available showing us crossing the finish line i will post mine here when i get it to show you all how i cant take pain. ha ha.

Edited by Wheretonow, 20 April 2009 - 08:43 PM.

[SteveNorden]

Photos of Uncle Dave finishing the 50k:

http://photos.coolru...515558056_dRhmA


Striders in the 10k race on Saturday:

http://photos.coolru...515649104_YFkMH

[lisa1979]

JessicaJane: just read your blog.

OMG. **kin' awesome. Well done!

[ratdog]

Some brilliant race reports so far. Im still trying to get my thoughts together after an awesome weekend.   Ill get mine up later this week sometime.  

Bull, on Apr 20 2009, 08:08 PM, said:

I felt the sudden urge for #2's.  At 19 km's I was forced to detour to the nearest portaloo, which cost me about 45 seconds.

Now thats also got to be a PB.

[paigebaby]

Well i didnt run a marathon, but it was still a great weekend, with a lot of excellent performances.
Had a blast on Cow Bell Corner with the cheer squad, and think a gold medal should go to Sook and Emjay for outstanding performances with noisemakers.

[DownhillDiva]

Yesterday 3 hours into the marathon I was already in pain, and really struggled through the last couple of hours of it; yet today I can say I ‘had a good time’. Weird.

The weather was perfect – minus the occasional but brief headwind, the scenery was fantastic, race well organized.  It was great to get encouragement from the Cool Running cheer squad, as well as from the crowd who took the trouble to look up my name in the race book.

I cruised through the first 11-12k easy, talked a little to other runners but couldn’t afford to socialise too much as I needed all the energy I had.  It was hard to watch the 4:30 pace group melt away and not try to run with them but I couldn’t afford to overstep the pace or knew I would pay for it.

First started feeling like I was working hard at 12k, not a good sign – at what point in a marathon do you start to feel you’re working hard?

Ran the ½ in 2:25 and gradually lost time after that. It was all related to leg pain and cramping, otherwise I was pretty good with no cardio or gastro problems and felt strong. I had a couple of setbacks in training including a persistent chest infection followed by a baker’s cyst (read: ghastly hard swelling rather like bursitis only behind the knee that makes you feel like you have a football strapped to the back of your knee).  Hopeful that if I can train more consistently and increase the mileage will eventually improve and finish under 5.

[sailaway]

Bull, on Apr 20 2009, 09:08 PM, said:

..............
....
With 1.195 km's to go, I was on the cusp of achieving my 2:48:48 goal but it was touch and go. I knew it would be really close with the final stretch uphill and into the wind. It hurt like hell, but I dug deep and reached the finish in 2:48:38. A mere 10 seconds inside my goal time, but extremely satisfying.
...........
.........
As for Christchurch on 31/5, I'll probably do the 1/2 marathon over there. I love the course there. Pancake flat. Hopefully it's not too cold though.

Bull,

Congratulations on your 3 place age category and on your top run and toughing it out on those, what must have been, last 1195 long metres. Good luck at Christchurch

[TimMcK]

Hello,

Canberra Marathon was my second race of marathon distance or more, having done the Narrabeen All Nighter in January.

It was great to see Brendan Davies and Tim Cochrane again having met them at Narrabeen, and I really enjoyed the scenery of the run which was so well organized and a fantastic experience.

I wanted to run this race to prepare in a way for the Gold Coast 100, and had no expectations of being in the top fifty or anything like that.

It was a new experience for me to come through in the top ten and my old man and I discussed how great it would be to run the 50 km in 3hr 30 to 3hr 40 or so and maybe run a sub 3hr marathon or near it.

I was totally surprised and rapt to run 2hr39 and then 3hr 12 for the fifty. i thought the last 8 km were some of the nicest scenery wise of the course, however stuffed i was.

The support that all the runners showed for one another, and the spectators encouragement really helped so much.

i think i was able to do the last 8km at an ok speed despite feeling tired because i have been running about four hours most sundays.

i hope that a thread goes up re the gold coast 100 if one isn't in place already, as i am interested to hear about the race and the preparation people are planning etc

tim mck

[badger]

Some days the Marathon God looks down kindly on you, and on other days he doesn't.  Some don't believe in the Marathon God putting performance down to training, dedication, and mental grit, but the believers know that weather fair and foul, health and good humour, and the subtle balance between debilitating agony and bearable pain, are all in his control.

Luckily for me on Sunday, the Marathon God was smiling benignly, pacified as he seemed to be by the excellent vocal offerings of the Coolrunning Cheersquad.  Knowing that he could indeed change his mind at anytime and throw up a 31degree day with enervating headwinds as he did in Melbourne last year, I started off with a plan to aim for a sub 3:30 and then just see what fate would bring.  The cool start without the rain of last year was welcome and things felt good despite the preceding weeks of imagined injuries and heavy legs that i'd experienced during the taper.

I was hitting a pace of between 4:40 and 4:50 and feeling comfortable during the early part of the run and thought i'd try and give myself a buffer for the expected glycogen vanishing later on in the course.  Marathon God was still seemingly content to let me plod on possibly getting a little restless as he whipped up a little wind.  After Melbourne though it seemed very mild, almost innocuous.  Anyway, the legs held out at this pace and only towards to 36k mark did i start struggling.  I thought Marathon God had smitten me at the 38k mark as a cramp seized my calf and a moment of terror struck me that i would have to stop or limp through to the finish.  But the supplications of all the crowds, CR cheersquads, friends and family, must have appeased him because after a minute of stretching and devotions it settled and i was able to continue on towards the finish.

The final stretch was dreamlike as i realised i had the pb in hand, ending up with 3:23, and 17min off my previous best.
Congratulations to all for their own performances whether or not their own MG was looking kindly down on them or not.

My sacrifice and offering to the Marathon God... legs of stone, reminding me of his beneficence with every movement!

[RodN]

Hi all,

I am a first time poster who is just getting back into running.   I just wanted to say how inspiring all of your stories are. Thank you for the inspiration and well done on your amazing efforts!

Regards
Rod

[sfGnome]

I'll get around to writing a full report when:

• I come down from cloud nine, and
  
• I have the time!

Suffice to say that I'm a very happy man at the moment

Notwithstanding her foot operation (literally notwithstanding ), Tiger Angel sat in the cheer squad with camera in hand. Unfortunately, between the overcast conditions and the heavy tree cover, the light was far from ideal and hence the photosaren't all as sharp as possible, but that's the price you pay for having an immobile photographer (no matter how skilful she may be!). In addition to the CRs in uniform and the ones she knew who weren't, there's also lots of Striders and Woodstock runners in there as well. Enjoy!

p.s. I think that this one of a very sprightly chicky babe is my favourite, although this one and this one obviously deserve honourable mentions. Please fell free to add names, etc to the photos.

[McDanger]

Thanks for all the race reports! It was great reading everyone's experiences and for once being able to identify with it given that it was also my first marathon!! What a glorious day! Good work everyone!! And thanks to all the cheerers

Now to the question that is on everyone's mind... does anyone know what the road kill was on the side of one of the bridges? It was HUGE.. and quite feathery.

[flyingemu]

sfGnome, on Apr 21 2009, 12:11 AM, said:

Notwithstanding her foot operation (literally notwithstanding ), Tiger Angel sat in the cheer squad with camera in hand. Unfortunately, between the overcast conditions and the heavy tree cover, the light was far from ideal and hence the photosaren't all as sharp as possible, but that's the price you pay for having an immobile photographer (no matter how skilful she may be!). In addition to the CRs in uniform and the ones she knew who weren't, there's also lots of Striders and Woodstock runners in there as well. Enjoy!

p.s. I think that this one of a very sprightly chicky babe is my favourite, although this one and this one obviously deserve honourable mentions. Please fell free to add names, etc to the photos.

these are awesome, thanks for posting!

McDanger, on Apr 21 2009, 12:42 AM, said:

Thanks for all the race reports! It was great reading everyone's experiences and for once being able to identify with it given that it was also my first marathon!! What a glorious day! Good work everyone!! And thanks to all the cheerers

Now to the question that is on everyone's mind... does anyone know what the road kill was on the side of one of the bridges? It was HUGE.. and quite feathery.

before RatDog replies...  no, it was NOT an emu...  I ran a little bit faster than that!

[hidalgo]

Congrats everyone, it's so inspirational to read your race reports!  

I ran the Sydney Marathon last year in 4.56.24 and after sorting out some shoe and biomechanical issues, I committed to aiming for a sub 4 Canberra marathon despite people telling me that it was crazy to try to knock an hour off my marathon time.  I was very happy with how my training went this year, logging quality workouts and building up my mileage so that I got noticeably stronger especially on the long runs, most of which I did with the Striders MTG.  

The course was beautiful, the weather perfect and the spectators fantastic so the first 26km flew by.  I went through the halfway point in 1.55.00 which was right on target with my plan to have a bit of time up my sleeve for the second half since I knew from last year that if I fell off an evenly paced bus, I'd never catch up again.  

I ran the first 30km very evenly at a 5.27-30 pace, felt strong and lapped up the scenery and atmosphere cheering on other runners, including McDanger and Ant who were running their first marathon.  At 32km I got hit with a wave of cloudy-headedness - that passed in about a km but I had slowed to a 5.40 pace which was still fine for a sub 4 and after the turnaround, I perked up, had a hearty laugh with the "Ghost Riders" and got ready to storm home.  

At 38km everything went pear shaped - I started to cramp up and my legs just wouldn't move any faster even when the 4.00 pacer streamed past.  I hit 40km at 3.45 and I thought that I could still make the sub 4 but everything went even more pear shaped and I resorted to hunching over and bobbling my head around madly trying to get some sort of momentum.  I threw the last bit of everything I had at the finishers chute and crossed the line in 4.00.27 (chip time).  

My wonderful support crew waiting at the finish line was concerned that the reason I was so quiet and miserable-looking was that I was bitterly disappointed at having come so close to my goal, but once I'd had Gatorade, some sort of energy bar and a sit down I regained the power of speech and told them how happy I was - I ran the best race I could and I left absolutely nothing out there on the course.  Plus I knocked nearly an hour off my pb from last September!

Thank you SO MUCH to everyone who was out there - I got such a buzz out of all the 'Go CR's and 'Go Strider's!!  I'm pretty sleepy and forgetful now but BIG thanks to Sook54 and the CR squad at Bowen Park, you gave me such a lift each time I ran past, especially when I was down to my zombie shuffle at 40km!  

rachinaus, on Apr 20 2009, 07:46 PM, said:

and UpandAtom for her words of encouragement at the 35km drink stop (and the Striders shirt to chase and overtake in the last 500metres )

My pleasure.  Next time I'll put up a better fight

And to all the Striders whose CR names I don't know - especially the guys who slowed down to try to tow me along the home stretch - you are awesome     And to my wonderful friends and partner who came to Canberra for their unwavering support and enthusiasm, and for making this such an incredibly fun weekend!!  

Next up - the Easter Island marathon in June!

Edited by UpAndAtom, 21 April 2009 - 03:29 AM.

[Timbo76]

Well, time for my first ever race report.

Got up early on the Sunday (4:00) to give my body time to digest a couple of weetbix, didn't feel too nervous getting ready, just concentrated on feeling low key and not burning up excess energy fretting about the race. Still felt very bloated from the carboload, definitely going to look at doing that different next time. Could hear some other marathoners getting ready around the apartments (pinnacle), made me feel less alone. Kids and Wife woke up 10min before heading out the door which made leaving a little bit more emotional than expected. Followed the flow of people into the school hall, didn't find the early morning temperature too cold but spend the whole time rubbing/blowing onto my hands to give me something to do with the nervous energy, I certainly wasn't expecting to feel like this but given this is far and away the most major event I have ever attempted I guess it was to be expected. I owe a huge thank you to Bluebel who spotted me in the corner shitting myself and introduced my to some other CR's. Their lighthearted banter helped calm me down a little bit. Headed outside with 15mins to go and met some more CR's, including others from the FTMer's thread which was great. By then my left leg wouldn't stop shaking and I though I was going to have trouble standing up and one stage, to make it worse I starting trying to calculate the energy I must have burnt being nervous. Moved into the chute, caught up with 40kmpassout from Melbourne, took my mind off things and as soon as the gun went felt heaps better.

Saw the 3:30 pacer (my goal time) sprint past me in the first 50m, and got a little nervous that my feel of pace must be way out, but got to the first km mark in 4:40, and resolved to slow down a little, saw green balloons miles ahead and was sooo happy that I had decided to take no interest in the pace groups before the race. Managed to run very even 5 min kms for the next 14 kms, fell around some other CR's, (one of whom was sfGnome, I can't remember the others, I left a lot of Brain cells out on the course I think). They were very relaxed, telling a couple of jokes and I was really enjoying the experience early on. I realized I had forgotten to go to the toilet in the last hour before the race so I waited until the 14km toilets, headed in did the business, and came out within a minute of being on pace. From then on until the 20km mark felt very good, keeping even splits, running 30 secs behind my goal time but not too worried about it, the weather was great, (certainly not too cold), and looking to hit the 30km mark on target and reevaluate things from there.

After 20km however I started to get doubts in my head. I was running at a comfortable pace, but the legs just felt a lot more tired than they should have, I resolved to keep pushing t\until the 30km mark as planned. By 26km's I had dropped to a minute outside plan, and starting thinking this is way to early to be struggling, it was going to be a long day (well duh i guess). Tried to keep pace up going to the 30km mark but found the hills (well they felt like hills to me), were taking too much out of my legs and pace. Hung on to the 30km mark, I can't remember how far behind time I was, walked till the last cardboard box for rubbish and set off again, planning to hit 5 min km's again to at least not loose any more pace, mentally thinking at this stage a 3:39:00 was possible. I just couldn't keep the pace up, every km point my time kept slipping, I found the up and downs going along Parkes way very taxing (kicking myself for not training hills enough, knew I should have but was just too lazy). It was great seeing other CR's on the route (including buzz and Horrie pacing), looking out for them and saying a big heelo when I could gather the energy was taking my mind of things a lot. Hit the turnaround point for the last time and knew I was at least on the homeward stretch, walked up around half of the hill (my first walking other than the planned walks at the drinks stations) immediately after the turnaround, and decided that I was just going to run/walk as much as I had to to finish, gave up on any time related goals, just wanted to finish.  Settled into a very slow jog until the 35km mark (6 mins of 3:30 pace by then), when another runner named Tina (non CR I think) struck up a conversation and said she was aiming for 3:30 as well but had fallen of pace a bit. We ran together (I think around 5 min pace again but I was getting too muddled to take note of the km markers and I was struggling with my 5 times tables whenever I saw one anyway) until the top of the last bridge, when I just gave up a walked, by then I was stuffed, too tired to wish her good luck and just walked the down the bridge before resuming the shuffle towards the end.

Had a long walk at the 40km drink station, resolving to look somewhat ok for the last two km's, passed cowbell corner, saw the 3:45 pacer go past me and funnily enough started feeling really pissed off about that. By then I was a broken man, so I didn't think I could catch the pacer back, and resolved to just keep jogging along. After spending the last few kms with runners streaming past me all of a sudden I was keeping up with those around me as I had upped my pace, half way down the straight before the final bend I realized I could have maybe caught the pacer (who may have slowed a little to come in on time?) if I had tried when I was passed. There was a group of around 3-4 of us and we all kept lifting the pace as we knew the end was near. Rounded the turn into the chute and the runner next to me said 'bring me home mate' so we both put the sprint on and crossed the line within a second of each other, really was hoping to beat the gun time of 3:45:00 by then but missed out by 4 secs, (chip time 3:44:47).

Got the chip off, hugged the wife and kids, had the best tasting apple ever(i will never forget the flavor), ran into Tony123 from Melbourne, was hoping to watch the finish line a bit and see some familiar faces come through the finish line but began feeling quite ill within a couple of minutes and just wanted to get back to the apartments.

So in the finish I came in way OVER(edit) my estimated time, but given I set out 4 months ago aiming for 3:45 I am reasonably happy with that, my training was all set up for 3:45, I should probably have stuck to that as my pace and then seen how I went rather than be distracted by some the the speed gains I had during training.

Thanks to all the support from the CR crew along the route (runners and cheer squad), it was awesome, I'm sure if Geb was a Cool Runner the world record would be sub 2:00 by now.

It was great catching up with many of you at the rydges after party, although I am still struggling matching many names to avatars, but I had a great time look forward to the next post race get together.

No plans as yet for any follow up races at this stage, just recover and take it as it comes. Thanks to all cool runners for their support and advice, congratulations to the runners, in particular eagle for his 100 (an achievement I find all the more staggering after completing one), and to Dave for his win but most importantly two of the best finish line celebrations I have ever seen.

Edited by Timbo76, 21 April 2009 - 01:24 PM.

[Azz]

Some observations of my first marathon; still working through which were real, and which were brought on by adrenalin or delusion:

2km – strange being dancing under bridge
3km - <brand withheld> watch totally packed it in, no time keeping
12km - joined Red pacing group
14km - red balloon disappears into bushes along freeway
32.5km – mental note for next year to not store water sachet down back of shorts (did retrieve it though!)
42.1km – cheer squad
42.2km – elated, finish in 3:15

Will be back next year!

[Uncle Dave]

Great photos Gnome - this one has to be a contender for best dressed participant.

Edited by Uncle Dave, 21 April 2009 - 09:16 AM.

[Shinboner]

My goal at Melbourne last October was sub 3.40 but like many others I struggled over the last 10 kms with the heat and wind, and fell well short of my goal.

Hence, my goal this time was to get that sub 3.40.

I targetted 5.10 km splits and it always amazes me how slow you think you are going over the first 7 or 8 kms. It almost feels like a physical effort to pull yourself back and run at the correct pace.

Apart from the expected niggles here and there I felt great up to about the 35 km mark....and at that stage was on target for about a 3.37.30 finish. Not soon after that point though I started to really fatigue and was getting some cramps in my quads, not as bad as Melbourne but I was starting to get a little worried.....the hills seemed to be getting a little steeper too!

My third last km blew out to 5.36 and I knew it was now make or break for this run. The Melbourne run taught me that once your splits start blowing out they can spiral out of control real quick. I told myself that I didn't want the last 3 odd hours to be a waste and somehow managed 5.16 for the next km, and then 5.10 for the last.

Thanks heaps to the CR cheersquad....you were a massive help to me coz I was in a world of pain!

I ended up with 3.37.51 (almost an 11 minute pb) and was satisfied that I couldn't have gone a second faster!

Well done all....some great efforts....keep the reports coming.

[Werriboy]

I haven't done a marathon other than part of another race since 1996.  On Friday I turned 47.  Yesterday I PB'd by 34 minutes to finish in 3 37 and a bit.

In all the racing I have done in different sports over the years I have never been so elated as I was on finishing on Sunday.  Everything added up to make it a very special day.  The weather, the course, the great support along the way and seeing so many friends out racing.  That is what this sport is all about.

My aim was to go under 4 hours, but felt that I needed to put in a bit of a buffer on that time so went at a slightly quicker pace.  Kept up that pace and found myself passing the 3 45 balloons.  Got to the 37 k mark just at that little incline onto the bridge and hit a bit of a wall that a gel seemed to fix until 40k's when it started to fall apart a bit.  With plenty of support from racers and crowd in the last couple of k's held it together to the finish.

To those who continued on through that finish line to complete the 50, you are amazing.  I am gald that I didn't have to run a meter further.

Back at work today so the high should probably begin to subside.

I have a couple of biggish events on the calendar before the end of the year and I am feeling much more confident of being able to knock them off.

Ahhh, I love this sport.

[Brick]

I have a short race report on my blog.

[Eagle]

What a great weekend !!!!

I enjoyed a pleasant Saturday night meal with some great CR friends.

I am fitter than 3.17 and should have run quicker. I think the emotion of the day was a factor. Also I wanted to run in the moment and absorb the whole of the marathon experince on the day and so despite saying  to my self often during the run that I was focused on running hard I don't think I was. Yes was hoping for an expecting to be much closer to 3 hours but ......    However without making excuses my goal marathon this year is Gold Coast for my first run as a 60+.

I now have a good base and after a week or so of recovery it will be back to some solid base building again. I am planning to run the marathon in Williamtown at the end of May to HTFU. I am looking forward to a better result there and at GC.  

There were some great efforts on the day - just to mention a few: Blue Dog under 3: Rachinaus for her first and a great result; Seris and Pete with the usual solid 3.5x finish looking so fresh. There were so many congratulations to you all.

I will update my Blogg in a day or so when I have time. I am now off to Brisbane to teach for the rest of the week.

[Barefoot]

What a great day for running.  

Started at the front, running on memory rather than talent. Saw Eagle go past on his way to his 100th Marathon - how hard it must have been when he reached "99", to wait for that 100th Marathon. If I could I would run another marathon next week.

Brick came by, tapped me on the shoulder and wished me a "good run", well with all the CR support a long the way it was a good run. Felt ill at 14km, but mangaed to hitch a ride on the Horrie sub 4 bus, he kept me going untill half way. From there Bluebell kept me company until the turn at 34km, it was great to run with her, so much determination, congratulations on a big "PB". So many CR's both cheering on the course and running as well - thanks to all.

Someone send me details of the next Marathon in Australia, I have an ache, need to run another one soon.

[Eagle]

Barefoot, on Apr 21 2009, 09:32 AM, said:

Someone send me details of the next Marathon in Australia, I have an ache, need to run another one soon.

Diggers website hasa wealth of information:

Marathon list

As I said I will be running the Sri Chinmoy on 31 May.

[allrounder]

nando, on Apr 20 2009, 08:26 PM, said:

Posted a few photos from the Saturday runs here

thanks nando - F420!

[FrankieP]

I LOVE THIS THREAD. It's been so exciting to read of everyone's races, and there has been so much in each and every race report to inspire whether you made the winners' dais, made a pb or were happy to make the line! Big congratulations to you all for your achievements.

I'm so excited now.. 75 days until Gold Coast Marathon! Whooo!

[allrounder]

McDanger, on Apr 21 2009, 12:42 AM, said:

Now to the question that is on everyone's mind... does anyone know what the road kill was on the side of one of the bridges? It was HUGE.. and quite feathery.

a swan...it's been there for about 3 weeks...

[Blue Dog]

Congratulations Eagle on completing 100 marathons. I hope to be with you for more of the next 100.  

Tim Rowe - mate I know you were a little disappointed after the race. Everyone else in the race except one would have liked to finish in 2nd place. Don't beat yourself up, put this one immediately behind you and take away some positives and experience..

You have talent to burn and there are many better results awaiting you; for us it will be a real pleasure to spectate and watch them unfold. It was great to have a chat with you post-race, you are a very level-headed, approachable guy and a terrific role model.

Uncle Dave - As I mentioned, sometimes life throws up an unexpected diamond. Mate I am so glad you were there to catch it and take advantage of the situation. Unreal!  

Swaggers - 2:44. Holy hell. When will you grow up and act your age?

CR cheer-squad - thanks for the huge support out on the course. I swear that each time Cowbell Corner comes around you make every CR running in the race feel ten-feet-tall and bullet-proof!

Cheers, Blue Dog. (My race report to follow).