Beer Mile 2017

My Berlin “what not to do” is dragging on so thought I’d recap the HuRTS Beer Mile.

First ran this race last year and it was probably my running performance of 2016, finishing somewhere in the top ten and taking some big scalps including Tommy, Barts, Enda, and Darren Jordan. Also witnessed the embarrassment of Timmy making it round just before the floodlights came on. All the man does is drink beer and run so it’s weird he’s so bad at this event.

Bets with Timmy (giving him a two minute start) and Macca (me receiving a 70 second start). Timmy forgot to check last year’s times before accepting our bet, and when he did realised I’d beaten him by four minutes. Lolz. Macca claims I rorted him, because I said I ran nine minutes last year (actually around eight), but he wouldn’t tell me what he ran (around seven) so what was I to do? If he did believe me he was absolutely on the rort. It ended up being a reasonable bet based on last year’s times.

My performance last time out meant I was in the “fast” group this year and running second. Felt a bit nervous, but knew I wouldn’t be finishing last given Tom and Birchy were also in the group. Tom, incidentally, was on the rort himself, requesting a minute start despite only losing by 30 seconds last year.

Timmy was in the “slow” group and actually had me sweating when he outdid himself and finished just over ten minutes. Meant two minutes was about right and I wasn’t going to have a big buffer. Couldn’t face handing him another $20!

Lined up with the “fast” drinkers and/or runners. As well as Tom and Paul, Macca, Darren, Taffy, Justin, Eoin, Quentin, CT, Mike Killacoat (last year’s winner), and Kevin Batt (third at C2S and JPM winner) toed the line. Some running elite in there.

Jeet was on judging duties and fired the gun. First tinnie went down reasonably, but the competition was already showing their pedigree with about five guys out before me. I was out ahead of Macca and Taffy though.

Followed Victoria’s strategy from last year (easy start with burping, hard middle sector, and ease off for final 50m to catch breath) and managed to maintain the gap and not get overtaken.

Next three tinnies and laps went by in a bit of a horrible blur. Macca came past on the second lap, I think, but I always kept within at least a lap of him so knew my money was safe. Taffy also passed at the start of the fourth lap, but promptly threw his guts up (first of approx. five vomits for the Valley’s man) so he was done too.

Finished just behind Darren and Quentin, with Justin Bromley a few seconds further back. Final time was something around 7:45...so quicker than last year and enough to take a $20 from both Macca and Timmy.

A quality afternoon was topped off at Rushcutters by finishing the beers and eating pizza before retiring to O’Malleys for a million beers.

Ich bin ein Berliner

Ha! What. A. Disaster.

Think I'll cover this shocker of a race in two posts; the first being a description of the weekend and the second talking about what went wrong/lessons learned.

So, without further ado, I'll cry into my pint and jot down the whole traumatic experience.

Poor preparation (hardly any running and too much boozing for three-to-four weeks beforehand) left me in little doubt a sub-3hr would be out of reach, but....death or glory.

Got to Berlin late Friday and met Simms at the hotel. He'd gone radio silent for a few hours and I'd feared the worse...yep, been boozing and had passed out on his bed. When I tried to get a second key they wanted to know if Craig was expecting me...yes, I told them, I was expecting me.

Expo and all that was fun, although manic, but there just seemed to be more of a buzz at New York. I was more excited. Obviously New York is New York, but the main difference was no Victoria. Very difficult not to miss her at the best of times, but moreso at things I know she was meant to be with me for. Well, as marathons are more her thing, I was meant to be with her. 

Anyway, wanted to try and make the best of things. Met Timmy for a coffee and to watch the rollerblade marathon (so much missing skin!) and then met running royalty Dave Criniti for dinner.

Dave is one of the nicest guys I've ever met and I feel privileged to have become quite good friends with him this year. He's an awesome runner (long run before Berlin of 32km at 3:20 pace, paced by Simon on a bike!), but incredibly humble. You'd never know how good he is just speaking to him...although he does continue to giggle at my marathon PB. He's genuinely nice and very generous (got me a watch for Berlin as mine had broken) and has his own charity helping kids in need. He was nervous at dinner, though, as he was going for sub-2:20 in the morning.

Slept pretty well and up with plenty of time to make use of the complimentary breakfast before a taxi ride to "near" the start.

Good buzz at the start. Spotted Jeet, in customary sunnies (despite heavy clouds, drizzle, and greyness) and had a few words. Few people had placed bets on him versus Darren Jordan and I felt it was going to be close! I couldn't separate them.

Bags dropped and lined up. I was in E coral, which translated to 3:20-3:30 I think. Bad news as it meant there was no 3hr pacer or even 3:15. Was going to be solo for me.

Conditions not ideal as it was wet, high humidity, and warmer than expected. Still, I thought it was better than the New York heat and wind of the previous year.

Gun went and the dispatch was painless. Really wide street to start with and it was easy to get up to pace and didn't feel I was having to dodge slower runners. The aim was around 4:15s and I wasn't far off (i.e. 3hr pace). Clearly a ridiculous target, particularly with my final time. Tom Highnam wasn't running, but was supporting and was sending updates back to the Hurts app and the Hurts footy app. Birchy asked how Timmy was doing and Tom said "just seen him with the three hour pacer at 7km, the silly twat". Haha. Can only imagine he'd have said similar about me.

I'll just mention here that Timmy and I had a wager, that I'd give him five minutes. First time I've accepted a bet with him that I'd give him time. I didn't think he'd get under 3hr20. He's obviously a great runner, but his prep has been poor. Longest run about 26km I think.

I was feeling pretty comfortable, but it's difficult on wet roads. I don't know how much extra energy you need for a given pace, but you must lose some with your feet sliding backwards. Also the humidity wasn't helping my usual precarious body heating situation.

I was approaching the 3hr15 group and it was here I decided to alter strategy. Berlin streets are actually quite narrow and I was losing a lot of energy trying to get through the throng. A few people were slipping and falling over and I decided the risk and energy loss so early (around 6km) wasn't worth it and I chose just to stick with them and run a "conservative" (lulz) 3:15. The fact I'd had to catch them actually meant I'd be between 3:10 and 3:15 and I was hoping for a final push.

So here I am. Running 3:30-3:40 and feeling reasonable.

Mental heebie jeebies started setting in. Had to keep reassuring myself my body was feeling ok, but my thoughts were wandering. I had a pretty good idea there were people watching back in Australia who wanted to see me fail and it was upsetting me. The going started to feel tough.

Went through 16km and who did I see?! Timmy! Walking on the side. I was already passing and didn't get chance to check he was ok, but felt for him.

My own blowup wasn't far away. I knew it was coming, approaching half way, and could do little other than slow down a bit and try to delay the inevitable. I'd hoped, at least, to get further than my New York blow up, but it wasn't to be. I was goneski.

Pace dropped to 5min/kms, I started stopping at water stations, and the distance I could run between rests became less and less. Interestingly, the first I knew I was in trouble was when my cadence dropped from 180 to 176, despite everything else feeling fine.

Certainly wasn't purely psychological. I started to feel thirsty around 16km and that's a bad sign.

The last 16km were a complete struggle. I remember being at 27km and walking, feeling shit, and thinking I've still got more than City2Surf to do.

I did my best. Running when I could and walking as quickly as I could. The pain was bad and I was thinking about people taking pleasure from seeing my splits. Previously in marathons, certainly Blackmores, I felt it was a loss of energy that caused problems and it affected my brain as much as my legs. But it was something else here, my brain stayed pretty alert (even though I wished it would dull). Legs felt awful, constantly going into cramps. 

Struggled through the final kilometres and barely broke out of walking pace. All hopes of becoming the fastest housemate had gone (I'd felt, beforehand, if at least get that) and I realised I was going to be in a race just to get under four hours.

Approaching the Brandenburg Gates, with about 500m to go, and I realised I might have to run to get under 4hr. I jogged maybe three steps before my right calf went into complete spasm. Couldn't walk. Staggered over to the guardrails and leaned down to try and massage it, but that just sent my right quads into spasm. Jesus! I couldn't get either out of spasm and couldn't walk. The thought crossed my mind that I might not be able to complete the marathon despite being able to see the finish line.

Gradually both eased and I was off again, just walking. Could see the clock ticking past 4hr, but figured I had a bit of a chip differential and just pushed on. Crossed with a chip of 3:58:11.

Disappointing in many ways, my running times this year deserved better, but I feel quite proud that I completed it at all after the suffering of the second half. Definitely felt worse than New York. It's another marathon and a sub-4hr. And a nice medal.

Bit of a mixed bag of results for others!

The good! Dave Criniti with a 2:17:58!Unbelievable. A Commonwealth Games qualifier, although he'll need other Aussies not to run quicker. Really pleased for him. Darren Jordan smashed his PB with a 2:43:26. Well deserved. He's done some great training. PB for Simms also (4:19) and he was chuffed not to be the slowest of the group. You'd have had good money on that beforehand.

The bad! Jeet just sneaked under 3hrs. Obviously still a great time, but I know he wanted better (and his training has been excellent) and he was a bit disappointed. Also won Tommy $20 from Timmy, so that's good. Erika with a great time of 2:58:07, but not the PB she'd been hoping for. But did beat Jeet by a second. Terrible rorter is Erika, having tried to give me only a five minute start beforehand. She did end up in the medical tent so perhaps that warrants a time penalty?

The ugly! Obviously me, but luckily Timmy took the heat off by crossing in 4hr30. He's claimed all sorts since, from DVTs to rhabdomyolysis, but I do respect the fact he finished!

Tommy H secured a table in a boozer for afterwards and during his eight hour "shift" was joined by myself, Jeet, Simms, Darren, Erika, Timmy, Neil P, and Aggers. A lot of beers sank and I ended up literally carrying Tom home. He reckons he's still got a hangover from that night!

Most left the following day, but Timmy and I had a quality day on the booze. Joined, for part, by man-of-the-moment Dave Criniti. He normally plies me with milkshakes, but this time I plied him with booze and he staggered out a couple of hours later. He was brought back down to earth having to lend Timmy and I 50c a time to use the toilet. 

The rest of the night goes down in "Hurts footy app legend", but that's where it should stay.

Bristol Half Marathon. 98:xx

Lived in Bristol for a couple of years and, along with Sydney, was the happiest time of my life. Actually very sad re-visiting, but there you go.

Before travelling out to Europe I had a look to see if there were any interesting races to do as a tune up for Berlin and spotted this one. Hadn't planned to visit Bristol, but this was reason enough and thought I might be able to catch up with old mates Tim Howes and Ben Greatorex and, maybe, Matt and Howard. However the former were on holidays/Aberdeen, the latter had food poisoning. So here I am, entertaining myself by writing this race report in "Start the Bus". Tom Ager also on holiday, but caught up with him and family at Bird's nest in Sessay.

Bristol was also the first race Victoria ran. I got her into running, but she really got into it and subsequently got me into races. At the time I couldn't think of anything worse. She did an amazing job and I was very proud, she's only ever got better since. I seem to recall she ran it earlier in the year though so don't know if it's changed date or there are two. The course certainly seems to be roughly the same as she told me she'd done.

My plan was to run at roughly 100 minute pace with a "quick" final 5k or so. Aiming marathon pace. Trouble is that my watch has broken so decided to run with the 1hr40 pacer and kick on from ten miles.

Weird running with mile markers. I was constantly thinking, "bloody hell, these kilometre flags seem spread out".

Started from Millennium Square and then a 7 mile out and back under the suspension bridge. Actually really enjoyed running at a relaxed pace and taking it all in. I think it's a slight uphill out and downhill back.

Almost got my numbers wrong and was about to take off at 8 miles before remembering that wasn't 5km from the end. Had a little chat with the pacer, but kept it brief as I know people with a pacer are often after PBs/working hard and the last thing I've ever wanted to hear is somebody running comfortably/chatting.

10 mile came and I said a quiet thanks to Dom, the pacer, before increasing my own pace. Tricky without a watch and my splits were a little random. Was passing a lot of people and felt a bit bad. Some were struggling and I could hear the odd curse as I went past.

The last third is actually quite tough. Headwind, very twisty (to avoid all the construction/roadwork in the city centre), and the odd hill. I'd forgotten about the one next to Castle Park which took a bit of the wind out my sails.

Last mile really dragged and I was happy to get it done in 1:38:xx (according to my phone). Crossed just under 1hr40 gun time.

Cold and windy and I got back to the hotel asap.

Sounds like some great times at Blackmore's today, but haven't had chance to take them all in. Neil won his age group, CT third in his (despite only pacing 80 minutes), and Scotty smashed another 31:xx 10km. I have a bet with Timmy that he won't go under 30 minutes, but I'm starting to feel less confident than that.

Timmy ran an "easy" 91 minutes...but it looked anything but from the pictures I've seen!

I'm going to try and do a Berlin prediction post this week, headline being I think 3hr is out of reach, but I should become the fastest housemate. Finally knock the bird off his perch.

Craig's Top Tips for City2Surf

Craig's Guide to City2Surf: what to do and what not to do

DISCLAIMER: when reading this advice please remember I have only ran this race three times and I have fucked up in it and many other races. The advice does take into account tips from other runners. I take no accountability for the wheels falling off you, but will take all credit for any PBs.

To do

Run the first 5km hard. At least your 10k race pace, maybe a little quicker. Go through the left hand tunnel.

Whatever you run your first 5k in, accept it + 1 minute for your second 5k.

5k will be ticked over as you head down into Rose Bay. You'll have 1.5k of flat travels here and use it to compose yourself before the hill. Get on top of your heart rate, breathing, and bowels. But maintain a good effort. Perhaps a little slower than 10k race pace.

Use the hill as further recovery. Maintain a comfortably hard effort, but don't worry about your pace. You have 6k to go after the hill, better to finish the hill in good shape than to crucify yourself for a few seconds.

Red line thereafter. Dover Heights is not easy, with a few hills, but you have 2k of downhill coming up and you can use that to simply recover if needed. If still feeling good, simply do a controlled fall down the hill to glory.

Check yourself at 10k. There's a big clock for gun time and you can make plans regarding your final 4k. Even if 10-11k is tough, know you'll drop 10-20s per k from your pace on the way down.

Remember the last 1k is tough, but don't ease in preparation for it. You may get a headwind and it goes a little uphill and it's hard psychologically running past the finish and not knowing where the turnaround is. That said, it's the last k and it's meant to hurt. Every step takes you a step closer to the Allen's Tent. It will hurt, but be a man about it.

To don't

Eat six bananas and 2 litres of Diet Coke 

City2Surf 2017 - 55:03 PB

In bed, nursing a horrible hangover, so thought I'd recap yesterday's City2Surf.*

Great race this, both for the run itself and the drinks afterwards. Previously ran it in just under 1hr20 (2014, stopping at all portaloos from Heartbreak Hill onwards), a 58:52 (2015, my PB), and DNS (2016, with a calf injury).

Definitely in PB shape and wanted to go at least sub-56 (4min/km), but earmarked a 54:xx as my target after discussion with Timmy and others. Timmy has ran it 26 times, or something stupid, and his advice was whatever you run the first 5km in, add a minute for the second 5km (to account for the hill), and then open up for the last 4km. Surprisingly sound advice, for once, from Timmy. Certainly sounded more sensible than Tom's, "run the first 5km close to your 5km PB and then try and hold on". So with that in mind I decided to try and cover the first 5km in 19 minutes, second 5km in 20 minutes, and then get through the last 4km in 16 minutes (4min/km pace and a reasonably comfortable minimum pace).

Got to the start in Hyde Park at 7am before trying to meet up with the hurts guys at the stone pillars, but nobody seemed to be around. Decided to line up with about 45 minutes to go so as to be near the front. Started pretty much a row behind the preferred guys.

Probably the most nervous I've been before a race. Haven't done a lot of hills and my goal was fairly optimistic and could easily result in a blow up. Felt in pretty good shape though and although my heart had been racing all day my watch reckoned I'd had a resting heart rate of 30 yesterday so I felt I wasn't overtrained.

Gun fired and we were away. The start line was actually further down the hill than expected and I was up to full speed well before crossing it (ended up with a chip/gun differential of 15 seconds even though I started right at the front). Only one or two slower people ahead of me that I had to dodge and I was soon in clear air.

Everybody knows, and fears, Heartbreak Hill, but there are three pretty significant hills before you even get to it and I was soon steaming up the first on the way to Kings Cross. Went through first kilometre in 3:47 which was about right for a 19-minute 5km. Despite scoffing at Tom's advice my official 5km PB is 19:32, but that was a few years ago, so I was hoping to be half a minute up on that. He'd be proud.

Erred at this point by going through the right hand tunnel. Was patting myself on the back initially, as it seemed to be slightly shorter, but soon turned out to be longer with less support and fewer runners to keep me honest. Gaffe.

Down into Rushcutters before the second biggest hill of the day up into Edgecliffe. It's a very tough hill in its own right, and felt great to get it out of the way. Realised I had Erika Jordan to my right, but I was working a bit hard to say hello. 

As we ran down into Double Bay I had my first sighting of Timmy. Surprised to see him, in all honesty, as I know how he likes to shoot off at the start before inevitably breaking later, and was worried I'd gone out too hard. Hoped it was just that he was struggling. He was about ten yards ahead and I just maintained that gap. Third of the three pre-HBH hills and it's the easiest of the lot before descending into Rose Bay. Through 5km in 19:09.

I love the route through Rose Bay. Beautiful views and nice and flat, but you can see Heartbreak approaching. A few people had said to ease off a little for this section so as to arrive at the hill in reasonable shape. Whilst I did ease the effort the pace remained fairly consistent, with a 3:54 recorded. Also saw Tommy in Rose Bay, shouting encouragement. Quality guy.

And then we hit the hill. It was like a war zone, with casualties strewn far and wide. Lucky enough to witness the Lindop blow-up as he was reduced to a walk. Happened so fast I was past him before I had chance to laugh my head off. Although I probably wouldn't have done as I was only too aware my own downfall could come at any minute. Next scalp was Brendan Fehon. He's been battling injury and fitness all year, but it still counts, and he gave me a few words of encouragement as I went by. Next went past Erika, who was looking strong and I knew she'd be with me all the way if I didn't blow a gasket.

My pace went out to a 4:43 on the steepest bit and then a 4:02 to Vaucluse. Think I felt reasonable, but all a bit blurry.

Round the roundabout and straight ahead and the lift in pace came naturally enough as I simply maintained effort. It was here that I saw Victoria, spectating from just past the shops at the roundabout. I didn't know what to do, and kinda gave an awkward smile. She gave me a bit of a nasty look back and it threw me quite a bit. Effort suddenly seemed really tough and my mind was a bit all over the shop. I actually considered pulling the pin and coasting down into Bondi or even heading home it made me feel so bad, but I told myself to focus and just get through it. Made me very sad though.

Spirits did lift a little when I spotted a "dark coloured gentleman" with what appeared to be an invisible piano on his back. Had to pinch myself that this was in fact Jeet, in a world of trouble at 9km. He's been sick with flu, but it's not everyday you get to pass a quality runner like Jeet. Asked if he was ok, but obviously disappointed. Anyway; scalped.

I'd gone through the first 5km in 19:09, so a little off pace, but had felt fairly good up the hill and a bit quicker than expected, and I felt I was on for a (just) under 20 minute second 5km to be bang on target and reach 10km at 39 minutes. Imagine my surprise when I saw the official clock read 39:45. Even given a gun/chip differential, I figured I was at least 30 seconds off where I'd hoped to be. Worst case scenario was that I had 4km to cover in just over 15 minutes, or 3:45 pace. Was feeling it at this point and just about holding 4:00 pace. Figured sub-55 was a no go and I'd just try and hold for the sub-56.

Down the hill and heard Brendan's voice, clearly resurrected, shout to tell me to push on, sub-55 was close. Soon afterwards Erika's noisy breathing was bearing down on me and she passed me back. Thought about trying to lift, but as we came off the downhill a headwind kicked in and the going felt tough. I'd pretty much stopped looking at my watch, but glanced to see my current lap pace was creeping past 4:00 again and I just needed to try and hold on. Tom was there, shouting more encouragement, and it helped.

These days you go about 500m past the finish line before doubling back, but it felt like an eternity. After the hairpin you get a chance to see the people behind you, but only recognised Brendan (had dropped off a little again) and Renee (quality runner and very pleased to have been ahead of her). Came round the final bend to see the official clock just ticking over 55. With the gun/chip differential I realised I was a lot closer to sub-55 than I'd thought and crossed over in 55:17. Didn't think that would be enough for sub-55, but it wouldn't be far off......55:03.

No idea why I thought I was so far off at 10km. Still can't work out why I was so down on my time, but think the clock was accurate as it was about the same as my watch. My pace did improve after the 4:00 from 10-11km (essentially 3:50, 3:40, 3:50), but I wasn't paying enough attention to notice. Think I was too far into the hurt locker. Would knowing have made a difference? I think so, certainly for just four seconds, and I'd have probably been able to at least improve the 4:00 split. That said, the last three kilometres were quick and even managed to get the final kilometre down after initially seeing the watch register 4:00+. Regardless, sub-55 isn't a qualifier for anything and was a pretty arbitrary target. And I'm stoked with that time, approximately a 3:30 minute personal best.

Straight from the finish to a fantastic brekkie at Enda's, initially just with myself, Timmy, and Enda (plus family including newborn) and then joined by stragglers (Eoin, Birchy, Jac, Renee, Jeet, and new mate Fiona Yates (12th female)).

Next up was the Allen's tent, care of Tommy H, and what a quality afternoon/evening we had! I've been trying to get in this tent for four years and it didn't disappoint. Great company, more beer than I could drink, and wonderful location.

Heard some of the tales of heroism and failure, with run of the day going to John Bartlett (44:xx and top 10 overall). He's played second fiddle a little to Scotty this year over 10km, but was absolute quality on this course (as tipped by Timmy). CT and Andrew Cross both bettered by their vice captains and armbands may need to be switched next year. Enda's jelly legs didn't make an appearance as he ran it "easy" (52:xx) and Kit Edwards ran a stormer in just over 50. He hasn't had the best prep and I reckon he'll be sub-50 next time. Winning team was Nick Robert's MAMILs with nobody going over 53. Olly, despite starting from the green group, ran an excellent 67:xx. Considering the guy does hardly any running I was mightily impressed.

Berlin Marathon is up next, with the goal being sub-3hr. A few predictors reckon I'm on for it, but the marathon has given me a good kicking on both previous occasions. Certainly a race to respect.

*finished it back in the pub

Festival of the Feet and M7 Half Marathon

Two races to tell you about; George's River Festival of the Feet and the M7 Blacktown Half Marathon.

Festival of the Feet

No idea how I originally stumbled upon this one, but despite running it "slow" (4:10s, which was fairly quick for me at the time) managed to get on the podium. How I'm running now I'd have come first that year (2015) and second last year so the potential reward of a new Facebook profile picture was too great to turn down.

I was soon cursing the two hour trip I made, comprising two trains and a bus, as the front three shot off. Between them and me were another few and I reckon I was only just in the top ten coming through the first kilometres.

Essentially just held 3:55s for the 7ks (forgot how the tough the course is) and started picking off the lads up to fourth place. Then I just had to hope a blowup would befall the top three, but it never came and I crossed over in 27:22 in fourth.

A bus and two trains awaited me as my prize and no new Facebook picture. Bollocks.

M7 Blacktown Half Marathon

The world's most boring half marathon. Regretted entering this as soon as I'd run Gold Coast, as that time left me in a bit of a no-man's land. Couldn't expect to PB my GC time, but what else to do? It's not like you can just cruise and enjoy the view.

Erred by attending the Manly curry night the evening before, but had a great evening with Tom, Taffy, Birchy, Justin, Macca, Charlie, and Craig (not me in the third person, another Craig). Luckily the curry was potent and was through my system by Redfern on the way home. The beers were a different story though, as was the late bedtime. Still, better than the twelve hour boozathon I'd treated myself to two years ago.

Anyway, figured I had two options; 1) run a solid, but unspectacular, sub-90, or 2) run an easy "just under 90" and incorporate it into a long run (30k or so).

Decided on option two and planned to go with the 90-minute pacer and accompanying group. Problem: turned out there was no pacer. Right from the off the field spread out and I was running solo. Could see a small group just ahead and decided to join them. Coasted up and realised they were running low 4s, which was quicker than I'd planned, but I couldn't face 21k on this course on my own.

Tough course and conditions. Headwind the whole way, out and back! Wtf. Pretty warm also, with temps for the day reaching 27c. Course is pretty tough, constantly up or down a hill. The return is especially difficult and the group started spreading out. I stayed stuck behind the man monster Greg Churchill (windbreak) until he broke and then I was on my own.

My kilometre times started drifting, but knew I was comfortably below 90 minutes and just toughed out the remaining hills.

Came in with a watch time of 87:30. Pleased with that, a comfortable sub-90, but hopefully haven't exerted myself too much and can get straight back into training this week.

Did a long cool down of 6km to get 80km for the week and then stuck around to see good mate John Iverach cross the marathon line in 2:59:10. Cut it a little fine, but awesome to see him get another sub-3. Watching him lying on his back, legs in the air, and drooling left me with no illusions how tough sub-3 in Berlin is going to be.

Next up is City2Surf and I've also stupidly entered the Glenbrook Marathon whilst tipsy. Birchy thinks I'm a "fucking idiot".

GCAM half marathon

Up to the Gold Coast for the half marathon and Timmy's birthday. Stayed in Broadbeach, like two years ago, with Taffy James and Tim. Didn't make the mistake of driving to the start this year, but did make the mistake of letting Taffy dictate timings in the morning. The man is a planner by trade, but honestly I've never even seen him plan his breakfast with any distinction. So late onto the tram for the eight kilometre trip to the start and then had to do the warmup running around trying to find the Strider's tent to leave our stuff. Timmy reckons he's never found it in the ten years he's been coming up and this time was no different. Whilst he was negotiating real estate at the Running Mum's Australia tent, Taffy and I found an alternative universe Striders tent (Swindon Striders or something) who let us stash our bags.

Only ten minutes to the start and a good 500m back to the start meant more "warm up". Got a break and spotted a little gap in the fence where A group where so slipped in and found myself perfectly positioned between the 90 minute pacers and the 84 minute pacers.

Plan was to give 85 minutes a crack (4:02 pace or thereabouts) which I reckoned was probably a bit faster than I was capable of, but Gold Coast is the quickest course I'll be doing this year so thought I'd give it a shot and accept the high risk of glorious failure. Gold Coast is pancake flat and essentially runs straight 10km north and then back south, with a short foray west around 6km to add a kilometre.

Also had a four minute start over Timmy, who I felt would likely go 82:xx or 83:xx.

Set off and was quite surprised to find a lot of slower runners ahead of me. Never understand why people position themselves so far ahead to then only go slow. A few must have been going over 4:30 pace and I couldn't help but knock one or two as I got up to speed. As I knew margins would be tight I really couldn't afford to ease in and lose time at the start and I heard a few cross words from the people I touched. They had worse to come though, as Darren Jordan was also late and he was coming through from right at the back of A group at 3:30 pace. And he's a very angry man.

The congestion eased after the first kilometre, which I thankfully covered in four minutes, and I settled into 3:58-4:00 pace. A little quick, but I felt pretty good and decided to try and hold that throughout.

First sight of Timmy at the short out-and-back around six kilometres. He was ahead of the 84 minute pacers in a fairly sizeable group including Alana Plymin (who paced me to sub-90 at SMH a month or so ago). He seemed to be running well, despite whinging all week about a cold he was suffering. Looked like I was going to have to work for my $20.

Back heading north soon after and it wasn't too long before the leaders were coming back the other way. Passed Alana who had pulled up on the side of the road, who then came back alongside me. Said hello before she went ahead, but again had to stop at the side of the road. Later found out she had to pull out which was a shame.

Dave Criniti was the first person I knew up front coming back the other way (ended up fourteenth or something, in a near PB time. Incredible), and also spotted Nick Roberts, Jeet, and then Timmy just before I arrived at the turnaround (around 11km). Timmy was now on the 84 minute bus so I knew he was going backwards. Realised there was a chance I might take him off scratch.

I was still on pace and feeling ok. 12-13km was where the wheels fell off at Canberra, but no such trouble here. Actually noticed my lap pace was going into 3:4x and had to consciously slow down. Effort was hard, but comfortable. Legs felt ok.

Could see Timmy ahead of me, who had been dropped by the 84 minute guys, and knew I'd be passing him with about six kilometres to go. He knew it too as I could see him looking around whenever somebody came up on his shoulder (he'd seen me at the turnaround so knew I'd be close if I'd managed to hold pace). I'd dreamed of this moment, and had always thought I'd laugh my balls off, but as I came up on his shoulder I actually felt a little awkward. I knew he wouldn't like being passed by me, having used to coach me and always having been significantly quicker, and I didn't know how to acknowledge the occasion. In the end I just came up next to him and we looked at each other. I won't forget what he said to me and it sent shivers down my spine; "go on Craig, finish it off. Smash it". What a guy. Not a hint of disappointment, just really wanted me to do well.

It spurred me on, not to beat him, but just to do him proud. I quickened my pace slightly, despite a headwind making an unwanted appearance, and ran the last five kilometres in 19:40. Coming under the pedestrian bridge, which marked 250m to go, I realised I was actually on for sub-84 and floored it (running 3:20 pace) to finish with a net time of 83:51.

Absolutely chuffed with that. Almost exactly a five minute personal best (SMH half in May in 88:52).

A lot of PBs elsewhere (Nick Roberts, Jeet,  cab mate Bruce Lambert, and Darren Jordan...who I didn't spot passing me, but Timmy said was still effing and blinding as he passed him around 7km. All did sub-80). Timmy came in in 84:xx, which is slower than he'd hoped, but he was pretty pleased given his week on the death bed. Barts and Scotty, doing an easy run after their 10k PBs the day before, formed an arrow formation (Breaking-2 style) and paced him home...I'll be speaking to the race director about getting him disqualified for using external pacers. Erika Jordan had to pull out unfortunately and Taffy ran a 92:xx, which, given is almost 15 minutes slower than his PB, should put him in good shape for underperformance of the year at HuRTS' awards night. He seemed oddly pleased with himself. Jac ran sub-90 as well which I think she was relatively pleased with. Neil P did a 72:xx, which isn't a PB but still bloody fast.

Cleaned up on the betting, $20 from Timmy and $50 from Dave Kane (the bet being Taffy not going under 3:20 in the marathon. He wasn't even able to start it and dropped down to the half).

Multiple coffees later and a spot of marathon spectating and we were back at the apartment getting dolled up for a night on the tiles at Southport Surf Club and then Waxy's. Timmy had a lovely patterned shirt that Birchy wanted to know if also comes in a men's version.

A lot of shite spoken with the last men standing being myself, Birch, Timmy, and CT. Celebrated Timmy turning 50 at the stroke of midnight. Nick Roberts got taken home by Lizzy after he bought himself two pints and refused to let them go, being unable to speak at this point. Birchy "pulled", getting a cab with a nice girl, by his standards, and getting her a coffee...although missed out on the important part!

Timmy and I had a little cry when discussing me going past him and what it meant to me. Couple of sentimental poofters.

"The Welsh Express" - Mike Gleeson

Launceston 10k today and as I had a good result and I'm out drinking on my own I figured I might as well do my write up.

Was meant to do this race last year, and can't remember why we didn't come down, but despite my sob story the hotel still hung on to my $200. "Graciously" they did say that if I got back within a year they'd keep it as credit...so here I am. Also, running well and the course is meant to be fast so was keen to give it a crack.

Bit of pressure too; Birchy and Gleeso had a wager between themselves on me breaking 39 minutes or not. Birchy betting against his own and saying not.

Things weren't looking good for Gleeso when a beer stall popped up at the expo. Two hours to kill before check in, a live band, and craft beer? Impossible to resist. I don't even feel bad about it. Gleeso wanted all bets null and void, but Birchy was having none of it.

Also this is the last 10k that's even on my radar for this year, certainly fast ones. As such it would likely be my last crack at a new 10k PB this year, and I felt like I left a bit on the course at the Sydney 10k.

Cold and bright morning with little wind meant perfect conditions. A 10:30 start was very European (as is Tasmania) and meant I was well rested.

Lined up and we all waited for the 5k to finish before setting off. Plan was to run the first kilometre quick before settling into 3:55's for the duration with a kick at the end.

Deputy mayor of Launceston (is that a thing?) fired the gun and we were away. Close enough to the start to be fairly untroubled by misplaced/optimistic runners and went through the first 1km in 3:39 and felt good. Had to consciously slow down, but 3:55 felt too slow and started running around the low 3:50s. 3:50 itself (with the possibility of a 38:00) scared me, but I felt 3:52 or 3:53 was a happy medium.

Didn't feel in trouble at all going out, but was aware that I was running faster than I ever had and a blow-up could happen at any time. Honestly didn't feel like it would at the pace I was doing.

It's an out and back course and I reached 5k in 19:13 (PB on a measured/timed course). Had my only doubts at this point. Presumably due to the turnaround, my watch started registering a 4:20 pace despite me feeling at the same level of exertion. Panicked a little, but talked myself round. Just a watch anomaly. Sure enough I was back at 3:52 pace within a hundred metres or so.

The return leg felt pretty comfortable and I  started passing people. A little rise after the bridge during the last kilometre felt tough and I saw my lap pace approach 4:00/km, but was able to kick it down over the last 400m and record a 3:47 to finish in 38:27.

Chuffed with that, almost a minute PB (from 39:19 a few weeks ago). Had done a bit of a taper (as had a cold), but I did have a cold. Ran in my Type As, which I think made a big difference. Fast course and great conditions. 

Next race is GCAM half and McMillan reckons I'm in mid-85 shape. There's no 85 pacer (only 84?!) and I run worse the longer the course, but I would love an 85 or, dare I say it, a sub-85. Bet with Timmy for 4 minutes also. McMillan also reckons I'm currently on for a 3:00:24 marathon, so getting close to that goal. At least from a 10k perspective.

Cracking morning and then really good lunch with Dave Criniti (31:19) and Simon Wolnizer (34:58) who both insisted on milkshakes whilst us (me) adults drank beer. Dave told how he had to have extra layers brought up for himself on a recent hike he did with his school kids, and I almost had to do the same for him today. Aussies, they'd never survive a British winter.*

*Dave did take a certain amount of glee when I was the first to put a wooly hat on.

SMH Half Marathon - 88:51

The SMH half was my first ever race and I'd done it once since...on both occasions it has given me a right kicking.

The first time Victoria was having to whip me to try and get me under 1:45:00 (to get a red start at C2S and failing) and the second time I had the ignominy of blowing up and being passed by the 90 minute pace bus with "Celebration Time" by Kool and the Gang blaring out of Simon Wolznier's loudspeakers.

There's no question it's a tough course though, and easily the hardest I've ever ran. In Pyrmont, especially, it seems insistent on finding every hill it can.

Anyway, I decided to race it because I happened to be off, but was not expecting too much of myself. Canberra was a disaster, on an easier course, and I'd probably let the long runs slide a little the last few weeks. That said, training had continued to go well and I'd ran a comfortable PB at Sydney:10. The plan was to attach myself to the 90 minute pace group, without Wolznier and his speakers, and hold on as long as I could.

That plan fell at the wayside right at the start. I lined up a little late, as I'd been chatting with Sam Keyworth, and saw that the pacers were all about thirty rows ahead at the red/blue group interchange. Looking at, and chatting with, a few of the runners around me and I realised most were going to be happy with sub-2hr. Bugger. Nice to finally say hello to Sachiko though.

It's a fast start down to Circular Quay, but conscious of my overzealous start last year I tried to hold back a little. Couldn't even see the 90 minute pacers and resigned myself to running solo. Realised I had Ant Brown on my left at this point, but running a bit quicker than me so let him go. Bit tough mentally, after what he and Katy did to me a few months ago, but tried to push it out of my mind.

Tougher mentally was the new hill they'd put in on leaving Circular Quay. It seems to me they take pleasure in surprising us every year with new hills. I don't know why they don't just do a course up and down the Harbour Bridge and be done with it. The sadists.

Comfortably passed 95 minute pacers in Circular Quay and could see the 90 minute flags as we set out onto Hickson Road. My pace at this point had been about 4:00/km (too quick), but I was feeling good. Went through 5k in about 20:15 which meant a good minute in the bag. It was at about this point I started coasting up to the 90 minute group...and a little fella with a small bald patch in a Striders singlet over a jumper. Neil Pearson! Said hello and he told me he was full of cold and struggling. Must have been true as he couldn't make Sunday lunch at the Lord Dudley afterwards. Anyway, it isn't everyday you get to pass Neil Pearson.

Just stuck with the pacers thereafter. Alana Plymin seemed to be the lead pacer and was doing an excellent job. I hadn't heard of her before, but she's a quality runner with a very low 80 minute PB to her name. She was running gun time and would regularly inform us we were 10-15 seconds up on that. Given I had had to make up a minute or so to catch them meant I had a pretty good buffer.

The SMH half is nerve wracking because you know no matter how well you're going there's always another hill around the corner ready to break you. Last year I fell apart in Pyrmont, but I was hanging on to Alana and feeling pretty good. Saw Victoria with the 100-minute pacers on one of the out and backs and gave her a little wave. Felt very sad when she ignored me.

Overtook Ant Brown as we left Pyrmont and followed Sussex and Hickson Road towards the squashed car. Suddenly realised I was running next to Erika Jordan and had a little chat with her. She was running it easy as she feels it takes too much out of her. Still, ended up ahead of her so another scalp for me. They all count.

Started to get the mental heebie jeebies at this point, as I knew the climb up to Cahill was approaching and that my race could be over. Just sat in with Alana and actually came out of it pretty unscathed. Ran a sub-4:00/km down the expressway and started believing the sub-90 and even a PB were definitely possible.

There's a climb from 17k and the chair undulates, so I wasn't counting my chickens, but I felt fairly strong and knew I just had to stick with Alana and I'd be fine.

Hope became certainty as I passed 18k and realised I could break to around 5:00/kms and still go under 90. It was at this point I decided to push on and leave the 90 minute group. Actually started passing people and put the skates on for the last 100m to finish with a 88:51. Just over a 40 second PB. Absolutely delighted with that. A good PB on a very tough course and actually felt that I had plenty left in the locker. Also "beat" Neil Pearson and Erika Jordan.

Some good results elsewhere. Victoria ran a cracking PB and she's almost guaranteed a BQ this year. Really happy for her. Jeet was pleased with his time. Whilst not a PB, it was a great return following a nasty injury. Mike Ho came out of "retirement" to PB and finish 9th. Incredible. And saw my mate Tom H running strong, also on the comeback trail.

In addition Timmy finished third in the Great Wall half marathon and Noycie smashed the UTA 100km! Also Taffy did a nice trails long run dressed as Winnie Mandela.

I celebrated with Olly and Giles over a Sunday roast at the Lord Dudley and then watched the Tahs beat the Rebels. Cracking day all round.

p.s. keep forgetting to add it to the end of my posts, but need it documented somewhere. $100 with Brie Miller rides on who becomes a consultant first...with the loser being the one who finishes first.