Blogs
Final race of the summer: Donard & Commedagh
Yesterday I ended my promotional tour of 'Europe' on a high, running up Northern Ireland's highest peak Slieve Donard, in the annual Mourne Runners Donard & Commedagh race. The race was won by Northern Ireland's inform fell runner Stephen Cummingham, topping an impressive season. I finished several minutes behind in 4th position.
Lurig Challenge Cushendall 2010
Today as part of my Active Canaria promotion tour I ran the Lurig Challenge hill race in Cushendall. The 6km race was won by one of Ireland's biggest talents Joe McAllister of St Malachy's in 28.50 and I finished just over a minute behind in 3rd place. I was pleased with my performance as I have only been able to train a few times since the Mount Enta race earlier this month. Even though it was a short race it was one of the steepest ascents and descents I have ever raced on. Runners had to run to the top of Lurig Mountain (1100 feet) and then hurtle back down again into Cushendall.
Burning it up on Mount Etna
To say I was a little aprehensive about today's race is an under statement. Since the High Wycombe Half Marathon 2 weeks ago I have 'trained' 5 times, partly due to injury (my hamstring) and partly due to an excess of late nights and too much beer (weddings etc.). When I went for a 20minute jog yesterday around the village of Francavilla I considered not going to the race...my legs were tight and I felt terrible.
Grant and Stone High Wycombe Half Marathon 2010
With the choice of the Milton Keynes Half Marathon, the Swanage Half Marathon (which I was 3rd in last year) and the Grant and Stone High Wycombe Half Marathon I was spoilt for choice. Whilst I am in the UK I am based in Welywn Garden City, so I decided to run the High Wycombe Half Marathon and am really glad that I did. Handy Cross Runners did an amazing job and it was truely one of the best organised road races I have ever run.