The Blonde, The Brunette and Their Blisters
January Blues.
Even a new pair of ultra-technical running shoes cannot beat the January Blues. The extra weight of mince pies and turkey trimmings can be disastrous for the long-distance runner and ultra-demoralising at the beginning of the long uphill trek back to fitness. The weather has changed from ‘Christmassy cold’ to ‘wintry wet’ and dirty puddles, soggy socks and mud-splashed legs have become part of the course.
Not an ideal advert for marathon running, I’ve actually been battling a virus since returning from New York. It appears that running a marathon the week after flu is not the most sensible recovery routine, but who would trade in a shiny golden medal for a germ-free life?!
Fortunately, the NYRR (New Year Rookie Runners) provide enough distractions to work through the barriers.
NYRRs are a determined breed. Kitted out in brand new DRI-fit gear, fresh from its festive packaging, they certainly look the part. Most have fancy wind-resistant jackets and co-ordinating bottoms … the especially enthusiastic have entertainment systems of various shapes and sizes strapped to their arms. They hang out in parks mostly … running in detox duos, feeling more and more virtuous with each agonising step.
I love watching NYRR. They have a fresh determination that haggard weather-beaten runners have long-since lost. They turn their noses up at ripped leggings and muddy shoes and discuss their achievements in the changing rooms of their new gyms.
In contrast, I feel like a veteran. My five pairs of trainers all reflect varying states of suffering and my shorts are ripped from coasting too close to bushes! Proof (a certificate, photos and fading memory) tells me that I once managed 26.2 miles, but I’m finding it increasingly hard to believe. The voice inside my head that used to propel me forward has gone quiet and I’ve lost sight of the next goal.
To make matters worse, the Brunette has relocated. Now commuting in the opposite direction, Croydon instead of Camden, our schedule has been plunged into jeopardy. How much harder to get out of a warm bed at 6am when you only have yourself to answer to? Nevertheless, the adventure must continue.
New York is going to be hard to beat … but we need to start planting goals for 2005. A strong contender is the Edinburgh Marathon in June but any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
For now, I need to put my new trainers through their paces. Nike Shox 2.45. Is that the time I’m aiming for? Watch this space.
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Filed Under: Personal Stories
