Andrew runs the 2007 BUPA Great North Run

The big day   
                           

30 September 2007 

In the week leading up to the run, I only trained twice. I ate plenty of carbs and only had alcohol on one occasion.

On the big day I took ages to get to the pen so runners were already moving but I managed to get started at about 11am. Running with so many other people was great fun, as were the bands and the bystanders who shouted things like “not far now chuck” at mile one! Running was very slow though due to congestion, empty water bottles and ambulances and it was pretty impossible to establish any rhythm. We ground to a halt completely at one water station. I have never seen so many charity logos – I met two other brave Mental Health Foundation runners not to mention participants from other mental health charities.

I eventually finished in 2 hours 24 minutes and then went for a curry and a pint of Cobra with my family and another Mental Health Foundation runner. It then took eight and a half hours to get back to London – more gruelling than the run itself – especially with the kids fighting in the back of the car!

Overall a great experience. Thank you to all my sponsors and supporters. I am now thinking about a 10k challenge and maybe the Berlin half marathon next year…

0 weeks to go   
                           

25 September 2007 

I am now winding down ready for the big run. Only ran for 1 hour on Saturday for example, will be running mainly 30/40 minute slots this week. No alcohol and plenty of pasta. I just hope I stay well now for the big day and the weather is right!

1 week to go   
                           

18 September 2007 

I have been training hard and managed a 15 kilometre run in 100 minutes on Sunday. Whilst not being complacent I do feel prepared.

I am eating like a horse and my partner and kids are having to make sure they get their fair share.

2 weeks to go   
                           

11 September 2007 

Training is going pretty well. I am using Dr Foot’s insoles and these have reduced shin pain. I have increased some of my mid week runs to 3/4 quarters of an hour and managed 11 kilometre on Sunday in 75 minutes.

If I have a problem it will be to do with the mechanics of the leg (shin, knee, ankle) more than fitness. I will be going for a 13k run next Sunday and then the plan is start winding the distances down for the final 2 weeks.

3 weeks to go   
                           

3 September 2007 

I went to Cornwall this weekend and ran on Hayle Beach which was fantastic.  It was hard work, but thankfully I experienced no shin pain as the sand cushioned my feet. 

I think I need to do more long runs, but otherwise the routine is pretty good. 

I also got a chance to play some tennis which makes a nice change from running!

4 weeks to go   
                           

28 August 2007 

All is going well albeit with some shin pain. I managed 2 runs along the Dorset coast over the bank holiday weekend with my

brother-in-law.  On one occasion we had to deal with some agressive cattle, but we survived the experience. 

My shorter runs are not causing me any problems which is great. I am still finding the longer runs harder, especially without any facilities on route!

5 weeks to go

20 August 2007

I have now cut out alcohol except for celebrations and this seems to be having a good effect.

The weather is not very conducive to training, but at least I don’t get too hot whilst running.

6 weeks to go   

13 August 2007  

I have to admit that I didn’t keep to my training schedule whilst on holiday. I didn’t do too badly in the first week when in France - I played tennis and ran once a day, until that is, I got stung by a wasp.

When the holiday moved to Italy things went seriously downhill. I cut my foot on a stone quite badly whilst swimming. I had intended to train early in the morning but my sore foot combined with being away from home and the normal routine meant that It didn’t quite happen the way I had planned. 

Now that I’m home I’m back on track with my evening runs after work.

7 weeks to go

6 August 2007                               

I am in Italy this week on holiday with my family and will, of course, still be putting in the required hours of training!  It is beginning to get easier and easier, although I am having a few pains in my shins and knees.

I have been running along country roads and goat tracks, certainly a pleasant change from London! It is really hot and so I’m running early in the morning and late at night (hoping not to disturb the local wild boars) whilst drinking plenty of water. My reward is the occasional glass of wine!

8 weeks to go

30 July 2007                               

Just under two months to go until the big day… This is the first challenge event that I have ever taken part in. I started training about nine weeks ago and am already feeling the benefits physically. 

Although my training is going well, I need to step up my distance and time training if I am going to make it round the course on the day. At the moment, I’m running every other day, for 30 minutes to an hour with a longer run at weekends. 

I’ve always had a healthy diet but I’m making sure that I’m really eating the right foods to give me the energy I need.