I’ve gone to the physio to assess my quad. Same as before, strained hip flexor. Massaged, dry needled, mobilized. Looks like I’m on the bike for a bit. Oh well. The weather is crap and dark out and with no events on the horizon I’m ok with that. Last time this happened I was off running for about 4 weeks. I’ll hook my bike up today most likely to the turbo. I’ve already begun more lifting which I’m enjoying. Heavy kettlebell work has been really enjoyable and something new.

Next race? As mentioned hoping for the Beacons Way Ultra. 100 miles stating in Abergavenny Wales (near Cardiff) and going through the Brecon Beacons and beyond. End of July. I’ve been cleared for entry, they vet entrants, so just need to enter to make it official. Formal training needs to start in March so hopefully I’ll be healed up by then.

Arc is a no go.

And I’m out. Went for a run last night and I ended up walking home. This quad knot is back and I don’t have time to fix it. Oh well, at least it’s a race I’ve done before. 

Told James I can’t make it which is a bummer. He and his family are so nice and accommodating. Looks like a boring birthday for me rather than a 100 mile start. Already considering the Beacons Way Ultra, 100 miles across the Brecon Beacons in South Wales. Just need to get booked in to the physio to sort my leg. 

Signs are saying no to the Arc. My friend Greg who lives in Cornwall said the weather has been horrid and the underfoot conditions will be extremely poor, part of the experience but it doesn’t instill confidence! Not good for an ankle that’s 80% at best. 

He also can’t crew me like he did last time as he’s out of town.  Likely could recruit my friend James who lives down there too but I just don’t know. My quad had been bothering me as well. Seems to be a reoccurring knot I’ve dealt with in the past. I can run on it but it’s not 100% and who knows what will happen after 30 miles. 

The big draw seems to be that I’ll be seeing and running with people I kind of know. I’ll get to be a part of the community. I also seem to be looking for some validation locally here. I don’t know why I care but partially because I want to promote my job (running store) but also seem to want to get some recognition in the local running community where I live. I’m very experienced in these things compared most and am kind of a sleeper. I stay away from social media, I lurk, I keep to myself. Like I said, why do I even care? I don’t have time for a social life or to meet up to run with people. Maybe it’s just normal to want to be a part of something. 

2024. Well 23 went alright. I ran less than normal, usually I’m over 2000 miles. I had good results so can’t complain I guess. Minor injuries with my ankle which seems fine now and my quad muscle which I’m currently dealing with.

Treadmill is going great. Easy way as expected to get training in around life and winter conditions and a great way to waste time watching tv and movies! Actually am really enjoying it. 

I believe I’m about as fit as I was for the North Downs Way 100 so ready enough for the Arc. I do have a few weeks to train but I’m still on/off the race. Not sure why. I’ll miss time being away from my family on my birthday. The weather is guaranteed to be cold and shitty. But, it’s a great race and I’ll know a fair amount of people. I can’t get my money back either or defer. 

Just some thoughts I guess. Unfortunately no photos because images of my iPad in front of a treadmill are boring!