VeloChampion Compression socks trial and review - Another yes from me.

VELOCHAMPION 500 Series sports compression socks

My trial and review.

THE INTRO:

So depending on whether or not you read my last review which was for the VeloChampion calf sleeves, you will know that writing actual product reviews is new to me as I usually only write race reviews after I have done one.

Most of my running events and races that I take part in are to raise money for charity, which is why I write about them so I have a written account and record of what it was all about for donors to read after ward, and so other runners can get a good idea and feel for what a particular event is like. This helps them make a more informed decision on whether or not a race/event sounds like it is worth doing.

I have a memory like a sieve and writing it all down in blog form and attaching some of my favourite pictures also gives me a nice memento to look back on later.

I was lucky enough recently to see a request from VeloChampion for runners to trial some of their product and I was lucky enough to be selected once I applied.

So they sent a pair of compression socks and calf sleeves, the later of which I have already trialed and reviewed in my previous blog post, and you can find that here : 

http://fitnesswithgru.blogspot.co.uk/2018/02/velochampion-calf-sleeves-my-trial-and.html 

I was also sent a pair of compression socks to review and I waited until I had finished trialing the calf sleeves first and had written the review before starting to trial the socks.

Having now trialed them for over a week and under various circumstances I feel confident I can now provide a decent enough review for your perusal.

I will start as last time with all the manufacturers blurb from their website about the product itself in the information section, as I don't want to misquote anything.

Feel free to scroll past and return to it later for more detail about the product after reading the review itself... 

PRODUCT INFO:

This pair of high performance, unisex compression socks use highly advanced technical yarns that provide comfort and recovery DURING and AFTER exercise. Our compression socks are fully tested in a state-of-the-art lab, passing strict guidelines to meet the 20-30mmHg compression rating. VELOCHAMPION is one of only a small number of brands to use a certified manufacturer which uses production machinery that can accurately test the compression of the socks.
The compression benefits are ideal for all sports activities e.g. running, cycling, football, rugby, fitness, athletics, hiking, gym, yoga, golf, tennis, squash, triathlon, cross fit, weight/dead lifting etc. They are also perfect for people who stand up for long periods at work, fly regularly, suffer from calf strains/muscle pulls/Achilles tendon injuries or to combat deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Products features

• Compression support DURING exercise
• Compression Recovery AFTER exercise
• Graduated compression from foot to calf design aids the flow of oxygen to the muscles
• Improves muscle performance/reduces fatigue
• Aids recovery by helping the muscles 'pump' blood back to the heart
• Ventilated Foot bed which is wear proof and comfortable
• Comfortable Cuff design keeps the socks in place without restricting blood flow
• Heel and Foot bed support reduces pressure and friction build-up
• Available in 4 unisex sizes - please see image for size guide

Technical Information The compression socks act as a layer of muscle gently squeezing stretched vein walls. This built-in feature helps fight the force of gravity and circulates blood back up to the heart more efficiently. When blood is properly circulated it provides much-needed oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles that have been deprived during a workout. This compression helps muscle regenerate as well as help to remove any lactic acid build up.

Quality Control
Compression socks provide standard graduated compression fully tested on EACH sock before dispatch. The socks undergo the most advanced medical compression stocking testing (MST Professional) to ensure a true compression and conforms to CE DD ENV 12718/USA FDA standards. This means you receive the very best compression socks available on the market allowing you to reach higher performance with faster recovery times.

MY TRIAL:

So back to me again and for the trial I used the socks after a week off from running after completing the R.E.D. January challenge for Mind in January, which was basically running, walking, cycling or whatever you wanted every day for the entire month. 

I had chosen to run every day and ran mostly 5k's and fast 1 milers in between for a bit of recovery especially after a hard day at work.

To me this was an ideal reason and time to trial the socks as my legs where a little tender after a hard consistent month of everyday running, something I never do.

My trial comprised of at least two 5k's, a 7 mile big dunes run, a 10k road run which I have just completed and a shift in work with them on to check out the recovery benefits.

I will point out that I have in the past ran full on hill marathons and all day events in compression socks and indeed calf sleeves before now including the very tough Runners Hub Excalibur hill marathon with over 5500ft of climb at Moel Famau and the Clywdian hill range. I will be doing so again this year and most likely in the VeloChgampion socks or sleeves.
https://www.excaliburmarathon.com/ 

The only reason my trial runs for the products are all short is because I am not in long run training at the moment, and do not run big mileage until needed for the distance involved for my next event, and I don't feel it is necessary to do so for an accurate product trial and review. 

I have every confidence both products will still perform well over a long distance, and indeed will reap extra benefits for you, especially for your after run recovery, of which I always find is quicker if compression wear has been worn during a run or afterwards to enhance post run recovery.

THE REVIEW: 

So my first experience was perhaps my hardest and initially my most frustrating. That being trying to get them on! I got them out of the packet and thought, nice looking socks, nice material and nice decent looking quality and yes decent compression that looked like it wouldn't just stretch out and dissipate after a few runs or washes.

How true that was, I had forgotten how hard it can be to get compression socks on in the first place and I was struggling to get just the foot section over my foot and up to my heel. I was being over careful not to just yank them up by the top of the sock as this is not recommended by manufacturers in general as you will stretch out areas of the sock, and risk ripping or tearing seams if there are any on a product. 

I almost gave up as at one point as I was pulling I was genuinely concerned that one little slip and I would in fact knock myself out with a knee to my own face and give myself a hard to explain black eye in the process.

I did get them on past my heel eventually, and they rolled up my calf up to my knee no problem at all and to be fair once on everything was OK. I have narrow feet so I would recommend to anyone that you give yourself a little leeway with the sizing so you are not struggling like I was to get them on the first couple of times.

 I also found a handy You Tube video that showed a tip on getting them on easier by turning them inside out up to the heel and then pulling them the rest of the way up. You would have to see it for yourself to understand it clearly, but it did make them easier to go on on my subsequent runs.

I must stress though that I am a size 11.5 UK and I subsequently noticed that the socks are in US sizes so my Large socks were a US 12 max which is a UK 11.5, so my foot was the largest size they were actually designed to take.

Therefore it was my fault for not going for the next size up and VeloChampion were good enough to send me a pair of XL after ward to rectify this and once unpacked it was clear they would go on nicely and far easier so panic over, no need to worry, just order the right size first people...oopsie!.

Anyway, after all the drama of getting them on I continued with the large pair while I waited for the XL to arrive later in the week.

First run was a 5k with my local Lunch Bunch runners who I lead on a Thursday lunchtime run around my local town and it's public amenities, such as a delightful marine lake, promenade, seafront and several Victorian parks.

The 5k was a cold damp day and was why I decided to wear them for definite as I always find keeping muscles at optimum temperature while out training a bonus, especially with cold damp icy winds etc, which we had plenty of believe me.

They were nice and comfortable, warm and felt as did the calf sleeves like a security blanket wrapped around my calves. On the entire run they felt 100% OK and no need to try and pull them up as they don't roll down, and stay completely in place, so all good as far as I was concerned.

Trial number two was an aborted run as I was about to go out and the phone rang and I got delayed and decided I didn't have time to run. After the effort of getting the things on I decided I was leaving them on, and would test out the recovery and comfort uses of improved blood flow whilst on your feet for hours at work for example.

This meant I wore them around the gym I work at which normally tires my legs as I don't stop moving around for the entire shift. They were under my tracksuit bottoms by the way, so I didn't look over prepped for a nights work.

Again they felt nice and comfortable and I did feel they helped my legs during the shift, so if anyone is thinking of using them for long shifts on their feet I would say they are worth giving a go.

Next up was my toughest run in them. It was a sand dunes run along the highest dunes range alongside my local beach. I had a 1.25 mile walk there and a 5 mile out and back run up down and along all the highest ones I could find, followed by a 1.25 mile walk back. This actually gave me over 1000ft of climb within the 5 miles of actual running.

It was the first time I had ever done the entire range of big dunes as I usually run the lower ones or run between them. I was concerned that my calves would swell with all the effort and the socks may become too compressive, but they were fine and the blood flowed nicely as it should and I had no degeneration of the calves at all during the run. So again a good result for the socks as far as I was concerned.

The third run was another Lunch Bunch 5k run and again they kept my legs nice and warm and comfy and I had no issues at all.

My fourth and final run was an extended 10k road run to the post office to actually collect my XL socks as I wasn't in when they originally arrived via post. Again they felt comfortable, warm and nicely secure as compression wear should make you feel.

By the fourth run getting the socks on had by now become second nature and I had mastered the technique so all four trial runs were done in the Large socks and all were positive experiences.

THE CONCLUSION:

Bearing in mind I am a critical person by nature I couldn't really find any issue or problem with the compression socks and for the price they are at the moment they are a cracking buy. 

I found them a nice comfy compression sock and of good quality and they gave me every confidence they would last a fair time and the material used was a decent one.

Once I had resolved my initial sizing issue which was my fault I can honestly and happily recommend them to any of my running friends. Especially those with any kind of issues with Achilles, calf issues and any muscular aches or pains in the lower legs. 

I won't go into the in and outs of whether or not you need or do not need to wear them etc as they are there as a running/cycling/sporting etc accessory and only you can decide. Personally I have always found them to be of benefit when I have chosen to wear them, and I know plenty of runners who have had issues with injury and previous injury and the compression sleeves or socks have helped them no end in their road to recovery and subsequent injury protection.

THE SCORES: 

Looks: 4 out of 5 for me. Look good but in my mind could be more one colour.

Fit: 5 out of 5. Once I got myself the right size.

Quality: 5 out of 5. I cannot fault them.

Price: 5 out of 5. At the offer price an absolute bargain, otherwise good value.


Overall score : 19 out of 20. Almost a full score for the price band and market they are aimed at. It's not a question of an overly high score, but more that it is hard to fault or deduct points from a good product.

As I said in my previous review the VeloChampion stuff seems to be a good buy and good quality, whether it's on some of the offer prices they currently have or whether it is at the normal price.

I would suggest going online here and checking out the current offers and flash deals which are at near on 50% off, a serious bargain.

 https://www.velochampion.co.uk/collections/compression

Give them a try folks! 

 

 

 

Velochampion calf sleeves - My trial and review - Suitably impressed.

The review:

Velochampion compression calf guards/sleeves.

So this is new for me. I was lucky enough to see a post on Twitter by a company called Velochampion who I already knew did cycling wear as I had a cycling jersey of theirs which was one of my favourites.

The post on Twitter was asking for people to trial and review some of their new product, mainly some calf compression guards/sleeves and some compression socks. This particular review is for the calf sleeves/guards as I have spent a week trialing them before reporting back with this review.

I will begin with a copy and paste of the manufacturers blurb about the product itself so I don't have to try and explain it all and risk inaccurate information on my part. So here is the aforementioned blurb first.....

 These high performance UNISEX 20-30mmHg compression rated calf sleeves use technical yarns to provide athletes with comfort during exercise and help speed up the recovery process.

- Ideal for all sporting activities including cycling running and triathlon
- During and After exercise benefits - Compression support DURING exercise - Compression Recovery AFTER exercise
- Graduated compression design from the ankle to above the calf aids the flow of oxygen to the muscles. - Improves the performance of muscles and reduces fatigue
- Aids recovery by helping the muscles 'pump' blood back to the heart - Comfortable Cuff design keeps the socks in place without restricting blood flow

Available in 4 unisex sizes 

Technical Info:
Standard Graduated Compression 20-30mmHg
The compression calf sleeves act as a layer of muscle gently squeezing stretched vein walls. This built-in feature helps fight the force of gravity and circulates blood back up to the heart more efficiently. When blood is properly circulated it provides much-needed oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles that have been deprived during a workout. This compression helps muscle regenerate as well as help to remove any lactic acid build up.

Quality Control
Compression calf sleeves provide standard graduated compression. This compression is fully tested on EACH VeloChampion sock before it is despatched.

The calf sleeves undergo the most advanced medical compression stocking testing (MST Professional) to ensure each sleeve has a true compression and conforms to CE DD ENV 12718/USA FDA standards. This means you receive the very best compression calf sleeves available on the market allowing you to reach higher performance with faster recovery times.

Ok, back to me again. I hope you found all the above information useful and it saved you a bit of time looking it all up on their website.

I'll start with the important bit, the price and their website so you can go and have a look and hopefully buy yourself some, especially while  they are on offer as I write this at £9.75 down from £19.99! It's a ridiculous price for a product of this quality I can assure you. I've had cheap entry level cr*p from some manufacturers before and I can assure you this isn't.

https://www.velochampion.co.uk/ 

THE ACTUAL REVIEW:

So I will start with pointing out that I have worn compression sleeves before including on the Runners Hub Excalibur marathon at Moel Famau  2 years on the run so am aware of their benefits and how they should feel and work. It was an incredibly difficult challenge on the lower legs and I feel calf sleeves or indeed compression socks are of great benefit in events like this, especially with 5500ft of climb. They helped me no end.

I am signed up for a 3rd go there again this year and will very likely be donning my VeloChampion calf sleeves there.
 https://www.excaliburmarathon.com/

 I have also worn compression socks before, so am familiar with what they should and can do. I say this because my test runs for this trial where all short.

 I am also familiar with brands like Red Venom for compression wear at the cheapish low to mid price range to Skins compression wear at the mid to high end so I know what you should get for your money.

I spent all January doing the R.E.D. January challenge, which was basically running every day in January to fund raise for Mind the mental health charity. I did this as my leisure time is dedicated and committed to fund raising as many of you will know already.

This particular challenge was new to me as I would never normally recommend anyone runs everyday, certainly not mainly 5k's which is what I did with recovery 1 mile runs on other days when I was resting as such.

I got delivery of a pair of the calf sleeves and a pair of the compression socks, but I will trial and review the socks separately.

The calf sleeves I wore on the last week of the challenge, and at that point I was pretty much in dire need of them as my lower legs were by now aching on and off during the day and I was getting a little worried that shin splints or the like may be approaching.

For this reason the calf sleeves were a God send as putting them on pre run was like fitting a perfectly fitted glove combined with a security blanket as they went on easily and felt really comfy, and also gave me a feeling of warmth comfort and security that gave me confidence that they would help me out on my run.

I was suitably impressed with the quality as well, as soon as I unpacked them I pretty much knew they were going to feel good once on. They fitted me perfectly from my ankles up to my knees and I am a tall 6 ft 2 runner so that is often a challenge. The compression felt just right, not too much and not too little, and they felt as comfortable as my Skins compression socks which I would normally wear when my muscles were a little weary.

My first run with them was a 1 miler after a late shift at the gym on a cold damp night so the added warmth was a bonus, especially as I was going all out for the mile with no warm up, so keeping the calf muscles warm and comfortable was vital. The run went well with an overall 7 minute mile and I sat in the calf sleeves for half an hour before taking them off as I was enjoying the comfort so much, especially as my legs had been aching after work before the run.

I repeated this for the next two nights at 1 mile for a fast mile each time which pushes your chance of an injury without warm up sometimes, so the calf sleeves/guards were an extra line of defense against that and they did their job.

On the 4th trial out I did a 5k run with my local run group who I take out on a Thursday Lunchtime 5k social run each week as I have free time during the day Mon-Thurs. Again they were a treat to put on and they gave me the confidence that they would be ok on the run despite all the days off running I had already done that entire month.

The entire 5k the legs felt fine and the calf sleeves sat perfectly in place at all times, no pulling them back up required at all on any of the runs so the fit was perfect.

I even wore them for an early Sunday morning 4 hr shift at the gym purely for recovery purposes as I had worked an 8.5 hr late shift on Saturday night and was on my feet all shift and my lower legs were far from happy when I got up Sunday morning. 

Normally as my gym shift progresses on Sunday mornings my legs start to feel the effects from the shift the night before and start to ache and tire, but with the calf sleeves on they felt fine, I didn't notice any discomfort or tiredness at all. Definitely a thumbs up from me for recovery, especially as I wear compression gear for recovery after my longest training runs for comfort purposes and I have always found the actual recovery process is definitely sped up by this.

CONCLUSION

On a whole I am very impressed and happy with the Velochampion compression calf sleeve/guards and whether they are on offer at £9.75 or at their normal price of £19.99 I wouldn't hesitate to buy some more and I am certainly going to recommend them to running friends inc triathletes and maybe even cyclists if I can get past the secret code of what you can and cannot wear whilst out on your bike etc :)

SCORES

Looks: 5 out of 5 - I like them.

Fit : 5 out of 5 - Fit me perfectly.

Quality: 5 out of 5 - Can't fault them.

Price: 5 out of 5 - At the offer price a bargain, and at full price good value.

Overall: full score, and not just because I got them to trial for free, as I said I will likely buy some spare pairs of these while they are on offer especially. I am an honest truthful person as everyone who knows me will agree. If I don't like something I will tell you :)

NEXT UP...

Next blog post/ trial/review will be for the compression socks once I've done some decent runs in them over the next week.....See you soon folks!

Velochampion are currently offering a  'Flash Deal' at £20 for a pair of their calf sleeves/guards and a pair of their compression socks, I would highly recommend that package while it is available.

https://www.velochampion.co.uk/collections/compression

 

Another New Year...another new you?

Running For My Health @ Fitness with Gru.

Reflections of 2017..

So another year has passed and it has come the time when we reflect on all that has passed, be it good or bad, and all that we wish for ourselves for the new year ahead.

I won't reflect on here about my 2017 as many of you who know me will already know.

I honestly cannot tell you if this annual 'New Year, New You' thing that is usually promoted all over the web and social media is a good thing or not.

 On a whole normally I just brush it off with a simple 'well it's just another new calendar' and that is has no relevance in the real world. I mean after all if the calendar had never been invented we wouldn't even know it was another alleged new year.

This year I'm using it to try and trick my mind into thinking that last year is behind me and the new year brings new things and new memories.

The problem is, often we cannot put everything behind because we are still here living day to day and some of us are living with very real problems.

Mine is my Anxiety, which sometimes catches me totally unaware and comes when I am not actually aware that I am remotely thinking or worrying about anything at all.

I will give you a recent example....

I was happily (note happily) sat watching a movie on Amazon movies called 'Goon'. It was a comedy and there was no particular hint that it was a romantic movie because quite frankly it wasn't. It was a good old laugh out loud movie. But one scene was just the two main characters lay on their bed side by side looking into each others eyes as they both mutually appreciated each others presence...

Then Boom! instant mood change on my part as my brain reminded me big time with an emotional overload of depression and Anxiety in one hit as the reminder that I was alone and didn't have this hit home.

I wasn't even concentrating on it that much but I felt lousy within myself and my mind was all over the place even though I was genuinely concentrating on the rest of the movie as it moved on to the more action based scenes. But my mind wouldn't move on, the chemicals in my brain I guess had triggered all the wrong feelings within me and I began to feel depressed, anxious and in a very dark place.

This wasn't helped by the half bottle of Prosecco I had had which I'd kept since New Year and decided I wanted to chill out with it. How wrong was I on that one.

It genuinely made me realise that as someone with mental health issues I was increasing more at risk to mood changes and I couldn't always rely on the fact that 'it will pass' as I logically know it will, but illogically cannot always see that at the time as everything turns into chaos in my head.

Luckily to a certain extent I live on my own, so my mood was my problem and no one else's as If there were people around me at that time with the various noises and chatter involved I would of probably of had to leave the room with a feeling of total failure.

Thankfully as I write this today I feel fine although only yesterday I had to cancel my attendance at my staff party as I couldn't afford the risk of social anxiety combined with alcohol and a possible repeat feeling of loneliness as I returned home on my own again to an empty flat.

Mental health is a real worry in modern times, and it is more prevalent I think than it used to be, yet it is still a hidden secret to many who try their best to hide their problems, their worries, their anxieties and usually their crippling insecurities and depression.

What can we do in 2018?..

Our health and all around us.  

What can we do is a genuine question. It varies person to person, you don't have to be someone with mental health issues worrying about each and every hour never mind each day or the next. 

You could simply be worried about your health, your job, your loved ones or the World around us.

I for one worry about several from that short list. I do my best health and fitness wise by keeping active with charity running etc as most of you will know.

 I also went Whole Food Plant Based diet wise back in March 2017 and it has reaped great rewards and I have continued to research and follow the whole healthy nutrition and our health aspect ever since with endless watching of lectures, seminars and general articles put out by those in the know who are spreading the good news and giving us updates on the latest research etc.

I promote a Whole Food Plant Based diet wherever  I can with my blogs as I know it will genuinely help others as I genuinely care about them and their health. I will never apologize for the endless posts on Facebook and video shares etc.

In recent months I have dabbled with the Vegan aspect of things as my diet is 99.9% vegan technically due to the no meat and dairy aspect of it.

A true compassion to the animals around me had been made all the easier by the fact I know it is benefit to my health as well to the lives of the animals around me.

I have however found the 'elitist' Vegan Police rather too much to deal with and have been amazed at how insensitive and uncompassionate a fair share of Vegans can be to their fellow man.

Don't get me wrong there are a lot of really nice ones around and thankfully they strike a happy balance that to me saves the very movement that is Veganism.

Openly chastising someone for buying a L'oreal product in the UK that hasn't been tested on or harmed any animals for example because the company also sells products in China, which has to be tested on animals by law in China is not acceptable.

 It may not be animal friendly, and no I don't agree with animal testing, but you have no right telling a new Vegan or at least an animal advocate or someone trying to help the animals that they are not Vegan according to your rules of how far you go with avoiding products.

The original meaning of Vegan as created by the man himself Donald Watson, was a person who does not eat meat or diary or use any animal products were practical. This is hotly contested by many.

This meaning has been added to and elaborated over the years by the same society the Vegan Society that kicked out it's founding member Donald Watson when he didn't follow their animal activism leanings.

This year Veganuary, a one month challenge to go Vegan in January has attracted over 145,000+ followers and people who will do their best to be Vegan for the month and hopefully beyond. But on social media it has become apparent that I am not the only one struggling with the approach of some Vegans in attitude to their possible new advocates to Veganism.

Thankfully the like of Veganuary itself has a whole website and charity behind it that promotes Veganism in an open and friendly way and their Facebook group has maintained a helpful and friendly attitude to all within and I am truly thankful of that.

Their willingness to offer good valued advice on food, nutrition, health, cruelty free and Vegan products is a good one and to be commended. In my mind they have saved a lot of people from falling of the Vegan wagon and going back to their old ways purely because of the way they have been spoken too.

I commend an improved diet to you all, be it Vegan, Plant based or a stepping stone along the way to improved health and fitness.

What can we do in 2018?...

Our mental health. 

What can we do about our mental health?...Well we can talk openly about it for one. Get it out there in the open with friends you feel close enough to talk to openly. 

A genuine friend will be there for you, or at least will listen to you and your troubles. Some will surprise you often with troubles of their own or family members that you didn't know they had. This is an example of how hidden mental health issues can be within society, if you didn't know they had troubles how would anyone else. 

1 in 4 is the often touted figure for how many people will suffer mental health issues within their lifetime. Think about that for a minute , look around the room you are in at family, work colleagues or friends and imagine that at least 1 in 4 have or will have problems.

Now think how many of them have openly told you they have any problems or issues? Likelihood is maybe 1 in 10 of them may of done if at all. It is always a closely guarded secret until either we break from within or someone that genuinely cares knocks to come in to our fragile World.

Likelihood is they have the troubles now or at least the beginnings of them as life's pressure take there toll on them. Do your best to be there when they need by letting them know so.

Talking about your own troubles, or at least genuine ones as far as health or mental health or even financial ones is a way of letting others know 'That it is good to talk'. The way people except those with troubles is a testament to their true self and whether they care about just themselves or all around them.

I have found that talking is best, and posting on social media although risky sometimes is a major step in telling everyone who you really are and reaching out for the help you need.

Writing blogs about your experiences is a big help, hence why I write this one for example as it helps me get to grips with my problems and lay them out before me in black and white. It tells me I am ok, I can survive this, I can talk about this and that I have got this.

So what have I done in January 2018 for my mental health? Well I have joined the R.E.D. in January for Mind challenge.

This was and is a great way to combine my physical health with my mental health by pledging to run every day in January (Some are walking or exercising).

By doing so it is getting my mind of my troubles and getting me out there for the start of the New Year and beyond.

It is getting me through the darker months of Winter and indeed the darker months of the dreaded 'Black Dog' as it does it's best to keep me housebound in a nice warm and safe environment of home. 

But getting out there is the nice safe environment, not being stuck at home.

Just like Veganuary and their Facebook page and website, R.E.D January has a superb Facebook support page and website. I have watched with great joy as people with mental issues among others have opened up with their troubles and without any kind of judgement whatsoever, have received outstanding support from within the group as well as the page admin team.

A true testament that it is good to talk about your problems. We have a wealth of experience in a field that is only truly understood by those who have crossed it in an attempt to come out the other side without been trampled.

Do everything you can within your power to improve your life through your fitness, your diet, your love for others, including the animals around us and especially your mental health and well being.

Talk the talk, walk the walk, and most of all...show the World you care, and perhaps, just perhaps the love will be returned tenfold.

God Bless you all.

 

 

 

A guest blog post from my other blog 'Running For My Health'..please read and follow :)

Running For My Health @ Fitness With Gru.

This is a guest article from my other blog 'Running For My Health' which is fairly new as I have only written two posts so far. It is a mental health orientated running blog, and it covers my mental health struggles with Anxiety and is a way for me to spread the word that 'It is good to talk!'.


As Christmas has now reared it's overtly commercial ugly head for yet another year it is hard to remember the true meaning of Christmas, and indeed to stay grounded and remember all that we have to be thankful for.

It's also a time to remember those who are no longer with us this Christmas. For me I truly do not know how Christmas is going to go after losing my Mum this year. My Mum was a true believer in having her family around her at such an important time of year, especially as a Christian.

I must admit as someone who usually worked a lot over the Christmas period it was usually a strain to free up some time as I didn't get much time off and I usually wanted to spend it alone chilling out and having a rest. I can truly say now that that was a big mistake, and that family truly is the most important thing at Christmas, no matter what your job or whether you want time to yourself or not, as one year you will find you really are by yourself and you will regret lost opportunities.

But if you suffer mental health issues Christmas can be a real problem, and if you have Anxiety like me the pressure of keeping everyone happy and getting around everyone and doing all the Christmassy things can be a real challenge and often a daunting one. It can be hard to not make people feel like they aren't important to you because you are not making an effort, but it is not by choice, it is often a matter of survival to get through the stressful period in one piece and come out the other side actually looking forward to yet another year of the same.



My Dad will be spending his first Christmas without my Mum this year and I have to think how he is going to feel this year. I am off work on Christmas Day and Boxing Day afternoon and evening so chances are it could be the usual Boxing Day meal out like we usually do, as it always gave myself and my brother Christmas day to ourselves to spend how we please.

In my brothers case it was obviously enjoying Christmas with his own family which is important as the kids are young and they need to feel like Christmas is all about their day together and not rushing around all day trying to visit all the parents and in laws etc which can be a stretch at the best of times. Some years I don't even get the chance to catch up with him myself as our time off never matches, it's like working a shift and saying a brief hello or goodbye and see you again soon lol. We always catch up later in the New Year when the madness has subsided a week or so later which is good.

That brings me to the New Year and where I was originally heading when I started this post...

Living with a mental illness you often cannot see further ahead than tomorrow, and if it's Anxiety like mine it is often best trying not to think ahead or even plan ahead, as thinking ahead can cause stress thinking about what is ahead, and planning ahead can stress you out if you worry about sticking with your plan or if things start not to go to plan, it's an endless revolving circle often like a revolving door were after a while you just don't know where you are going, whether you are coming or going and you just want to get off.

As a charity runner I try not to plan ahead too much and often just go out and run, no pressure on time, distance or speed. This enables a feeling of freedom and a relief from some of life's pressures for a short while.

This has long been the case for a lot of runners and why you find a lot of people who are suffering stress or Anxiety, or mental health issues find running such a help. It also helps that if you are lucky the brain releases some 'feel good' endorphins and gives a brief period of happiness and contentment.

As a fundraising runner though with mental health issues or indeed physical issues such as injuries, how do you plan ahead for yet another year of fundraising?...

One day at a time may help get you through life for a while, but sometimes little targets or milestones can often give a little incentive to push on and challenge yourself a little, but it is important to not beat yourself up if you don't make it to your goal or target first time or even second time round.

I failed last year in my target of finally running a 50 mile event as I had planned for quite a while. I had a knee issue and was not able to do the training I needed to be physically able to succeed. I was extremely disappointed with myself and it had already started 2 years before when I had to back out of a 53 mile event for a charity I supported due to a hamstring issue that didn't heal in time, that was 2015.

2016 I had dropped the 50 miler plans for that year and then suffered knee problems during my 3 hill/mountain marathons in 6 months fundraising challenge which to be honest I probably shouldn't of taken on but I did at the request of a regular guest at the hotel I work at as they asked if I could fund raise or raise awareness of an illness and charity they were involved in. I really was not going to say no to them. With fundraising I have always said that if I destroy my legs doing them but raise decent money along the way, then it was worth it, especially as some people have not even got the luxury of walking, never mind running.

2017 I booked 3 x 50 miler events so I could choose which one to do, and surprise surprise my knees still hadn't recovered properly and I decided 2017 would be a down year of practically no running or fund raising, but as ever I threw in some decent fundraising events and still did some good and thankfully could still run and walk ok at the end.

I have to say my Mum was constantly telling me 'You are doing too much!' which obviously then made me try and prove her wrong by indeed doing too much and pretending I then was ok.

2017 was obviously taken over by the passing of my Mum in June and I started the fundraising legacy in Mums honour called 'What Would Mum Do?' this gave me a new focus for the rest of 2017 and gave me goals to achieve and in a way helped me survive the year despite my mental health issues.

What now?...

Now late 2017 and I have to plan a New Year of fundraising not knowing how physically or mentally able I will be. I have created a '12 Days of Christmas & Reflection' fundraiser to help raise some money over Christmas and New Year for 5 charities my charity running group Run or Cake already fundraise for so that has given me some focus and a distraction from my own Christmas problems.

As I mentioned in my previous blog post, I will be also be doing the R.E.D. January fundraiser for Mind the mental health charity, where I will run everyday in January, or at least try.

Those two small goals will help me through the dark cold months of Winter and hopefully on toward Spring and my biggest challenge of my life so far...'The Return To Snowdon'.

The Return To Snowdon is the ongoing story of my Mum's love for Snowdon and Snowdonia and her final return there, where her ashes will be spread so she can admire the views she loved so much when she was able bodied enough to do so.

You can read that story here: https://snazzycracker2.wixsite.com/returntosnowdon

The story will eventually evolve into my act of remembrance in honour of my Mum one year on in June 2018 where I plan to walk from Chester to Llanberis and onto Snowdon using mainly the Welsh Coastal Path between Chester and Bangor which is a 80 odd mile walk then going onto Llanberis probably via Caernarfon which will add another 20+ miles and take it over 100+ miles likely.

A challenge indeed and one I will spend 3-4 days to try and do it safely. I have chosen to spread it out as I want to use the time to reflect and remember my Mum and once there I also intend on spending time reflecting on happy family times in the area where we went on family holidays.

Most importantly I will be visiting the spot that my Mum's ashes will of by then been spread on the hillside near Snowdon over looking Lyn Padarn a spot my Mum loved dearly.

I then intend on walking up Snowdon the next day as a final act of remembrance as I never managed to fulfil my ambition of walking up it with my Mum.

This fund raising walk of remembrance will give me the drive and determination to fight trough my troubles day by day, and I will use it to see me through yet another year!....


The fund raising links are as follows, please support me if you can, thank you.
Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team  https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/returntosnowdonmrt
Text donations code : (Code) LESJ49 followed by the amount, then send to 70070
Lupus UK https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/returntosnowdon
Text donations code : (Code) LESJ48  followed by the amount, then send to 70070

3 times a lady? 3 times a charm? 3 times a poo? No! 3 times because it's worth it!

Marathon Eryri - Snowdonia Marathon

28.10.17 

Foreword.

 As many of you will know I have already done this event in 2015 and 2016 and have written two fairly well received, and often read running blogs about it.

In them I described the day I had at the event itself in an attempt to be informative regarding the event and also hopefully a slightly entertaining open and honest account of what it took to run it and what you go through trying to run it successfully.

I hesitated to write about the event for a third year as I didn't want to be repetitive. But I also write the blogs as a personal record for myself to look back on, and to record little bits of info I may want to look back on when my memory fails me, as it often does as I'm either old or getting old.

I also like to write the blogs to help people get a feel of the event itself, and also what your day brings when you run them. This is why I mention what I wore, what I ate, and what nutrition I may of had on the run, and often my tactics on the run itself. I do this in the hope it may be helpful. 

For this reason the blog will still contain a lot of details and probably pictures of the area from previous years, purely so new readers still get a good grasp of everything involved, so apologies if you find it a bit of the same.

I also write the blogs so I can look back and check details if something went right or wrong and compare to other events. Keeping a record or even a training log is something I would recommend when you take up running, so you can compare notes if your performance varies and you don't know why.

I ran the event this year to raise funds for the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team,  http://www.llanberismountainrescue.co.uk/ because I wanted to give something back to the area. I had many a happy family holiday there as a child and teenager. Those that know me will know this as I mention it a lot in recent blogs because my Mum sadly passed away in June of this year and we are due to spread my Mums ashes in the valley below Snowdon and near to Llanberis, as my Mum loved Snowdonia so much and had requested it in her final wishes.

I ran on behalf of 'WWMD - What Would Mum Do?' which is the ongoing fundraising legacy I set up in honour of my Mum and is the focus of my charity fundraising efforts at the moment, or at least my own personal ones as I run a few fundraising projects on Facebook also with the help of others who participate.

 The night before.

As always the night before or day and night before was all about staying rested and drinking plenty of water to get the body well hydrated, and eating plenty of carbs in my meals of the day to help store up energy for the run on the day.

I also had to got to bed early as I was getting up at 3:45am so I could ring my Dad at 4am to wake him up and be collected by him at 5am to set off for Wales.

I went to bed at 9pm which was difficult as I'm normally up til 3am as I work late shifts.

I think I slept fairly well which is rare before events as it is well known that it is often hard to sleep well the night before as your mind is often either buzzing with thoughts, excitement or plain old nerves. Also often the worry that your alarm didn't go off.

The morning of the event.

Well it was 3:45am and it was time for a quick shower to wake myself up, and then a call to my Dad at 4am to make sure he was up, and then it was first breakfast. This was just a couple of pieces of wholemeal toast with lashings of peanut butter on top. This is my staple pre run fuel for training runs or events themselves and it serves me well.

The vital cup of coffee was required to make me fully alert so at least I could dress myself like a sensible adult and not a blind folded colour blind child with one hand tied behind his back.

I had laid all my running clothes out the night before with a few choices so I could re check the weather forecast and dress quickly for it.

The weather forecast had improved slightly from several hours of light rain or drizzle to just a fog and thick cloud. I knew this could still change back again and I was always looking at wearing a thin waterproof top as well.

I went for my twin layer Karrimor running shorts, my 'Run or Cake' running vest, my Drymax 'Speedgoat' socks and my good old running cap.

I also wore my Inov-8 ultra running light weight waterproof shell/jacket as I knew I would want to stay warm at the start line as it's wind proof as well and maintains a good body temperature.

So, 5am and my Dad picks me up and it's a treat to have him do so as my Mum and Dad have never been at any off my running events, so this was a first. Also where we were going was personal to us both.

It took just over 3 hours to get there as we went the scenic route through the countryside itself as we always did on family holidays, so we were both very familiar with the route.

Obviously it was pitch black at this time of the morning, so scenery was not exactly interesting as it was mainly the dark, winding corners and idiotic selfish drivers on full beam who were oblivious to anyone else's safety and welfare as they drove toward us blinding us as they went. Bl**dy idiots! was the often used word of the day several times on the journey! 

 

 Arrival.

Safely there and quickly parked up in the car park at the event HQ which was situated in the Electric Mountain Visitors Centre in Llanberis, and it was time for a visit to the cafe for the good old 'Lord of the Rings' Second Breakfast! and why not, we were in Mordor after all! (See last years blog if you don't get that one).

Llanberis in the shadow of Snowdon (Web sourced photo)

For me it was two large flapjacks and two pieces of toast and another black coffee as it was still two and a half hours pre start time.

I must add that just before the cafe I went to pick up my race number and t-shirt from race registration. This is extremely well organized as all entrants names are listed on big information boards with your race number next to it. You simply go to the queue (if there even is one) for your number range 0-1000, 1000-2000, 2000-3000 etc..etc.. and pick up your number, your memento booklet and your pre ordered t-shirt in the size you ordered and NOTE the correct size you ordered. No panic at the end whether or not your size was going to run out due to poorly organized t-shirt purchasing by organizers. At this event it is spot on and you get exactly what you ordered, well done organizers.

Anyway, breakfast was eventually had, and it was time to go back and sit in the car to relax for a while while contemplating exactly when to attempt to go to the toilet for the vital pre run pee or poo (Get the title link?).

Never under estimate your bodies need for the loo pre run, be it once, twice or three times :) It will always catch you out when you think you are ok and don't need one, and you can guarantee you will need one at the last minute when the portaloo queues have reached maximum velocity, capacity and length, often across the car park and out the gates at some events.

Also please don't moan or whinge if there isn't a portaloo or installed toilets on the race route itself if you are from the city. This is the countryside you are in now Boyo' you should of gone when you had the chance...

Race Start 10:30am

I said my good byes to my Dad as I set off for the start line which is 10 minutes down the road and made my way to the long line of runners eagerly awaiting the starting hooter etc.

I did at this point take my first gel a GU vanilla bean flavour one that would ideally last 45-60 minutes.

I saw a few people I knew on the way and said hello and have a good one etc etc as you do, and before I knew it it was race start and we were off!...

Llanberis to Pen-y-Pas 

0 miles - 5 miles

This is the first section of the marathon and runs the entire length of the Llanberis pass upto Pen-y-Pas at 5 miles and the Youth Hostel there and also the first checkpoint and timing mat that records your time at that point.

Llanberis Pass to Pen-y-Pass (Web sourced photo)

The last 3 miles at least of this 5 mile stretch is a slow up hill climb, it's gradual but it builds and it slowly but surely drains the legs of those not used to any kind of hill running.

Thankfully I run in the sand dunes a lot in my training and it builds the leg strength and stamina required to run hills. The valley itself is rough and barren and often accompanied with a mist or fog which makes it a bit menacing in it's appearance. Not unlike Mordor as someone quipped last year as we ran.

It is still a beautiful sight to behold with it's steep rock faces which make it a rock climbing mecca for anyone in the UK.

As ever the Welsh October weather had brought us a mist and fog so you couldn't see the tops of the rock faces and surrounding mountains on either side of the valley, but it was still a sight to behold, and it distracted you from the difficulty of the climb itself if you were able to look around as you ran and pretend you couldn't feel the climb.

Luckily despite not training enough due to a knee issue all year my fitness was in decent order and so was my leg strength. I was also benefiting from transitioning to a Whole Food Plant Based Diet back in March and everything was going exceptionally well performance wise, and I was hitting new PB's at events I hadn't trained anywhere near enough for so full credit goes to the diet/lifestyle change.

If you want more info about my transition and why I dropped meat and dairy, just look up my previous blog post 'I shall not go silently into the night'. It was the last one before this one.

At the end of the pass is the final bit of the climb to Pen-y-Pas and it was shrouded in fog just like last year. By this time I had already removed my waterproof top and it was wrapped safely around my waist and I was now running perfectly cool in my Run or Cake vest.

It was also photo opportunity time at this point as the photographers from sportpicturescymru.co.uk  were there to take one of many photo's along the route for you to purchase and keep as keepsakes and mementos of the day. I always find they are good pictures whenever I purchased mine, as you will see at various points in this blog. Here is the first...

Approaching Pen-y-Pass (Official Photo)

At Pen-y-Pas itself I clocked a time of 39:43 which was roughly a minute quicker than last year at 40:44, so I was happy with that as I was trying to be sensible pace wise and was glad to see a gain at this point, and the next section would involve the downhill that was just about to start straight out of Pen-y-Pas. 

Pen-y-Pas to Beddgelert

5 miles - 13.1 miles

This is where the fun really starts. After doing the long climb out of the Llanberis Pass you are now faced with a slightly steep downhill to the A498 which is the road to Bethania and then Beddgelert. This bit is road and you can make up some good time here if you are using decent cushioned shoes like mine.

Decent from Pen-y-Pas (Web sourced photo)

 Which reminds me that I didn't tell you what my all important shoe choice was for the day. I wore the same pair as last year here, the Hoka Clifton 2's which are my favourite brand and certainly shoe at the moment and have been for at least 2-3 years.

The cushioning in the Hoka range makes all the difference , especially if you have had knee or joint pain and you need to reduce impact damage and want to make your after run recovery a little less painful and quicker.

I enjoyed the downhill at speed and enjoyed passing as many people as possible, knowing full well they would likely pass me again later when I was knackered.

Next was the welcome sight of Sarah and family and also Mandy and Darren who were also supporting on the day.

At 6 miles in you come off the A498 and run down a old farm track which is composed of loose stones, rocks, grass and mud and is very tricky underfoot if you are not used to it, and if you have no grip you are in trouble especially if the stones and rocks are wet. Today they were a bit damp but not massively wet underfoot so fairly decent to run on, but caution was still required as I hopped, skipped and jumped from one side to another as I tried to find a good safe fast route as we were still going downhill at this point.

It was a little quieter runner wise where I was race position wise at this point which made it easier to run down that path without worrying about others. It also stopped me being swooped up in a pack of runners were I would end up running their pace trying to keep up as opposed to running my own pace and race.

I have to give a shout out and 'Respect due' to Ben Darby here. Ben is a blind/visually impaired runner, and his ability to run at speed and negotiate tough terrain with a guide runner is amazing. He is a true inspiration to many, especially those who think they are not up to the task. WELL DONE BEN!

Last year I ran faster on this path and before it, and I think I smashed up my quads a bit as I had bad quad pain and degradation later in the run and a sore back shortly after leaving the path to rejoin the road at mile 8.

This year I tried to take it a little easier and not run full pelt, and I think I succeeded as I felt comfortable as we rejoined the A498 at mile 8 and started of on the long road section toward Bethania and Beddgellert.

On this section you just have to settle in and try and find your comfortable pace and see how you are physically feeling after the climb on the earlier stage and then the downhill on the next stage. This is the first real flat section for a typical road runner.

I felt in decent shape and I used the time to admire the scenery as I went to distract my mind from the effort involved on the run. I passed Llyn Gwynant at mile 8 to 9 which was a lovely sight and a welcome distraction.

Llyn Gwynant (Web sourced photo)

It wasn't long before I was at mile 10 and I figured I had better take my next gel as I was overdue taking one. I clocked 1hr 20m at mile 10 and this was the same as last year, so I was at least on target for a quick first half again as last year, so I was very happy at this point as I still felt in decent shape.

Last year I had planned an all out first half to build time and then take it easier on the second half. But at the half way point I had a lot of discomfort with my lower back and my legs were tired, and even though I walked a lot of the second hill climb last year my legs were still uncomfortable even walking.

This year as I had taken it easier on the long downhill to protect my quads and back I was hoping to rectify this.

Mile 11 was along side Llyn Dinas and water station/aid station no4 which was a welcome sight as I was purely drinking from the aid stations, whereas on most events I always carry my own to save time and convenience. But there are so many water stations here and ideally located, that I just use theirs.

 Well done again to the organizers for this, and THANK YOU and WELL DONE to all the friendly, happy, cheery and helpful volunteers that come out to man the stations on the day, it is greatly appreciated by us all. Even though we may look miserable and in pain or have a race face on, we do really appreciate it honestly.

Beddgelert Bridge (Web sourced photo)

The lovely and all familiar Beddgelert approached next just after another aid station, and I carried on at a decent speed looking for the 13.1 checkpoint and time mat like last year, as I wanted to record my time to compare against last year to see if I was faster or on time or even slower.

I ran on and still no mat, and I started to doubt there was even going to be one. By now I looked down at my Garmin and I was registering 13.58 miles done so knew I had passed the half marathon point, and I was now struggling to do mental maths in my head to work out what my time would of been back at 13.1 miles. 

I calculated it at roughly 1hr 43min which was a whole 3 minutes faster than last year so I was now very happy as this would give me a good chance at hitting the illusive sub 4 hr finish time here.

I now had to find out what shape my legs were in as the next long slow hill out of Beddgelert was upon me, and I was obviously a little tired as I'd carried on at speed trying to find this illusive timing mat!

Beddgelert to Waunfawr

13.1 miles to 22 miles

I continued on slowly up the long climb and could feel my legs were tired, but I expected it here anyway and knew this is where the run really begins as it starts to get hard and the legs start to grow weary.

14 miles approached and lo and behold the illusive timing mat in the middle of nowhere! I started to doubt the distance on my Garmin, but knew it was correct as I had done the event last year and knew exactly where 13.1 miles was on the route, and in this case it was 0.9 miles further back down the road.

At the timing mat I clocked 1hr 51min, but obviously couldn't compare it to last year as the mat was in a different place, but obviously I knew I was still 3 minutes up.

I decided to try and grit this hill climb out as long as I could, as I knew I walked at least half of it last year and thought if I can run more of it this time I could try and bank some time for later to keep me on target for sub4.

Funnily enough somewhere around here I saw my Dad as he drove past me on the other side of the road, I waved but he was right behind the car in front and it was stopping and starting so Dad obviously had to keep his eye on the road and missed me.

Onward I went and I knew the next water/aid station was at roughly 15 miles so I told myself to suffer on through the climb until mile 15 and then have a breather and a gel and water when I get there as a reward. Thankfully mile 15 was at the top of the climb near enough, so you knew that bit was over when you got there.

So water station break done and off I went again after only about 30 seconds or so of standing still and I walked for about 50 metres as the water went down. It was now off toward Rhyd Ddu which is always a good cheer/support point as it is next to the Welsh Railway there and it looks like a nice place to visit as well. The scenery is lovely around there and I could imagine sitting on a good old steam train and travelling through the local mountainsides around there must be a treat.

The train at Rhyd Ddu (Web sourced photo)

The next water/aid station believe it or not is at mile 16 as well, only one mile past the previous one, but strategically it is a masterpiece in it's placement as you have just survived the hill back at 15 and partly refreshed but you still had another mile of slight up and downs which were still tiring. But at 16 onward you had some little downs and if you fuelled at mile 16 or rested you could take full advantage of them, which I did of course.

We were now running along the A4085 towards Waunfawr and it was now a question of knocking out the miles one by one on ever tiring legs. I always suffer a little from mile 16 onward as I start to feel my calves or hamstrings tire or even my quads like last year. But this year they were not too bad.

 I was obviously physically tired so each mile It was a battle not to walk a little or too much. I never worry about a 30 second walk or even a 1 minute walk, because the mental and physical strength I regain from that little break I more than make back up again in the following mile.

Mile 18 alongside Llyn Cwellyn and the Snowdon Ranger Youth Hostel came and went and also the welcome sight of Davie and his girlfriend Dawn who were taking photo's and cheering people on.

At some point local running friend Jonathon casually passed me and said well done as he passed. I considered quickening up to maintain his pace as I beat him last year, but then decided it was foolish and too run my own race. WELL DONE to Jonathon by the way for beating me this time round.

Official photo.

I just about got 18 and 19 out the way after telling myself  I couldn't have a longer walk break until I had clocked the 20 miles so I could compare my time with last year. 
I was exceptionally pleased to hit 20 miles in 2hr 45mins which was 10 minutes up on last year at that point. This was the 3 minutes gained before Beddgelert and an additional 7 minutes by running all of climb number two from 13 to 15 miles instead of run walk the previous years. Needless to say I rewarded myself with a couple of minutes walk break!

Miles 20 and 21 are the final approach to Waunfawr and a tiring stretch and it has a few steep ups just before you get there. I did see a friendly and familiar face in Kim who was offering the good old jelly sweets to help those feeling excessively drained.

Waunfawr was finally here and mile 22 and again it was the welcome face of Mandy and Darren I saw first as I struggled up the hilly bit of the main road, and at this point I was stuffing my face with a energy/snack bar I got free in a goody bag once. It was a little rank, but as I was hungry that meant I was in trouble so had no option other than to eat it.

The welcome box of jelly sweets that Darren was holding out was a much needed bonus and I grabbed a handful with my free hand as I was still eating the snack bar with the other.

The dreaded right turn into hill hell was next at mile 22 and there was lots of support there as you turn including cameras etc, but I was walking this bit for sure.

As soon as you turn the corner, despite the fact the hill is there and looming, there is a great water/aid station there manned by young kids and their Mums etc and they are a very welcome sight, especially when they are offering you gels, sweets, water, isotonic drink etc..etc.. THANK YOU all for your support, it is much appreciated by all.

Waunfawr to Llanberis
22 miles to 26.2

Onward and upward and my legs were now in no position to muster the energy to run upward, so it was walk time while I continued to eat the handful of sweets etc to try and keep the energy up for what was the worst climb of the entire marathon, two miles of climb up to over 1000ft.
I knew that on the previous years I had walked pretty much the entire last hill as planned as it is just too much effort to run up it and you would physically lose all your remaining run energy if you did so unless you are an elite, and I'm not. I wanted to ensure I could actually finish and I knew I was ahead of schedule.

The final checkpoint/timing mat is at mile 23 here and I clocked 3hrs 19min which was 8 minutes up on last year, and last year I finished in 4hrs 1min 20secs. So I was now playing it exceptionally careful to stay at a decent walk pace up the hill, and trying to recall exactly what parts of this hill I walked last year and at what point near the top I started to run again.

There is a bit of an undulated section near the top that you are tempted to continue walking, as by now your legs are likely like lead weights, and you are also probably feeling a little sick after all the gels, sweets, snack bars, water, isotonic drink etc you have consumed on the run. I know I did, I'd had gut ache on and off since mile 8 or so and it had been an ongoing issue all the way round making some stretches very uncomfortable and I had restricted my liquid intake to address it.

I wasn't the only one in trouble by the sounds of it either, you could hear the odd subtle belch and burp as people addressed the issue of uncomfortable internal combustion/ignition, thankfully there were no flames around to ignite anything.

Finally mile 24 and the Tafarn24 water/aid station which was manned by volunteers in full Halloween attire, and they had even arranged for the return of the eerie fog to make it even more spooky.

Sadly as I was chasing a time there was no time to stop, or indeed collect my promised 'extra jelly babies' from Gwen who had promised me some because I was good enough to run to raise funds for their local Mountain Rescue Team.

Now it was the dreaded downhill decent back into Llanberis. I like this bit, but when it is wet it is really hard to stay on your feet because the first maybe 3/4 of a mile is on grassy muddy path and it's got slip trails all over it where people have have already gone arse over tit and for full pleasure of the awaiting photographer situated there for that very reason :)

The start of the decent into Llanberis (Web sourced photo)

I was aware I was losing a little time here, or so I thought but I couldn't risk a slip and fall and possible injury so carried on gingerly (no idea where that expression comes from) to ensure safety.

Finally you hit some farm track and tarmac, but blimey it's steep unless you are sheep, and it's a battle to decide whether to jog down slowly and safely or try and run with the inability to stop if you needed.

I went for a mix of the two as I could feel myself braking on the downhill and the pressure was taking it's toll on my knees and my toes were now rammed into the toe box of my shoes and getting uncomfortable.

I managed to pass a few people here, but not as many as last year when I just went for it uncontrollably and gained about 20 places.

I played it careful until we hit an actual road coming into Llanberis and it was a pleasant downhill here so a chance to overtake a few people as I always try and have something left at the end if I can.

The final corner was in sight and I could hear and see the tremendous local supporters you get on the infamous Llanberis High St finishing stretch. Around the final corner I went and time to give it my all and stretch out my lanky legs and try and race the last couple of people ahead. 

I saw a couple of ladies about 30 metres ahead and felt a tad guilty as I ran past but we were still quite a distance from the finish line and the photo's so it wouldn't affect them.

But any guilt was lost when out of the corner of my eye on my left I saw a blue flash as a guy was racing up to and past me. I'm not having that I thought and the friendly sprint off ensued as we both sped up neck and neck glancing at each other occasionally looking for signs of each other giving up...but no..this youngun was giving it as good as he got and I was now full pelt running stride for stride alongside him for the finish.

 It was a great feeling and it makes your day, and I think I just took the win maybe..maybe not..it was at least a draw on the line itself.
I had my fingers crossed that at least I would have a good finish photo to remember the run by, and I think I succeeded....



Finished, in more ways than one.

So I crossed the line in 3hrs 52mins 47seconds
8 min 53 sec pace per mile
and
417th position out of 3166 runners.

This was not only the sub4 I really wanted here, but it was also a new marathon PB (personal best) for me as my previous flat road marathon time at only my second ever road marathon was 3hrs 56min.

I was well chuffed to say the least as most of my marathons are trail marathons which are hard to compare time wise, because the trail and hills makes them all different.
With two 95% road 5% trail Snowdon marathons here already in the two previous years this was a decent improvement for someone getting older and a little worn out!


As soon as I finished it was a quick handshake and well done to the guy I had just sprint finished with and another guy I had chatted to in the final miles who also got his sub4, and then it was cup of coffee and a biscuit time at the Cadet hall.

 Not before collecting my lovely Welsh slate coaster and momento though of course. I have three now, just one more required to make a proper set of 4.

3 years in a row...looking forward to number 4 maybe.

As I was sat on the floor in the Cadet hall I was starting to feel increasingly unwell and now a little sick. I thought it best to go back outside to cool down a little and at least ensure I was stood somewhere were I could be sick if needs be.

I wandered around aimlessly for a while still convinced I was going to be sick. I had given it my all on this race and it may of been that, but I suspect it may also of been a sugar rush from all the sweets a couple of gels and a sugary cup of coffee, I'm not sure.

I was well and truly spent and finished and I had originally planned on staying for an hour or so to see fellow friends cross the line. Especially Sal and Darren Seeney who were renewing their wedding vows on the finish line at the event! Sorry guys xx.

Sadly I couldn't as I just didn't feel right. I went back to race HQ and the portaloos and tried to make myself sick, but it appeared my stomach was pretty much empty at this point, but I felt a little better.

I got changed and headed back toward the finish but couldn't find anywhere to sit and knew I couldn't stand near people, so I found a seat at a local bus stop, threw all my clothes on to keep warm and sat there to recover. I also suffer with Anxiety and often social Anxiety can come with it and I was feeling increasingly edgy around people, so a little bit of space on my own helped.

I had already sent a text to my Dad to tell him I had finished and that I would meet him later ready to go home, but thankfully he came back earlier and said he was in the car park at the race HQ so I went straight over and we left for home.

I did feel better eventually thankfully on the journey home, and me and my Dad enjoyed the scenery on the way home now we could actually see it in the daylight.

I am incredibly thankful for all the help and support I have had from family and friends prior to this event, and indeed throughout this year since my Mum passed. It has also helped with my Anxiety issues as running friends and family in particular have been particularly helpful. Especially those who have openly shared their own troubles and offered advice.

Running these events and for a good cause, helps me and gives me focus. It also helps my Anxiety issues and obviously my overall mental health. I would recommend running to anyone who needs a focus and a diversion from their troubles, it works wonders and puts you in contact with wonderful supportive people in the running community often prepared to put themselves out to help you. THANK YOU all.

The day itself was also a good trip out for my Dad, as it was the first time he had returned to Wales and Llanberis since we lost Mum back in June.

 It was good that we got to spend the time together, and I'm glad that one way or another both my parents were there to see me cross the line and succeed doing something I love to do, which is running for charity and doing my bit to 'help those in need' in memory of my Mum...

God bless you all, and remember to cherish those around you always. 

       

     https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/wwmd-llanberismrt

http://www.llanberismountainrescue.co.uk/

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