My Lakeland 100 preview In comparison to last year, mileage is similar but ascent/descent is definitely less. Foolishly I overdid the ascent/descent last year and that resulted in shin-splints. Fingers crossed this year I will toe the start line with no injuries. During training this year when I have been on the fells I’ve always felt strong on the ascents. Descents are definitely still a weakness so I plan to take them very steadily during the race. Looking back and comparing race results it is positive with only one disappointment, which was the Highland Fling. About fifty minutes slower than last year, however I started the race dehydrated and have definitely learnt a lesson! Marathon-wise, my performance at Kent Road Runner was my fastest for 18 months. I take this a big positive and is a good indicator that my endurance is nudging in the right direction. This feeling was further enhanced by a strong performance at the Stour Valley Marathon (just two weeks later), although a small field (104) it was great to finish in the top 25% (very rare for me!). Long distance training, since 1st January 2014 (over 20 miles has included): [1] One training run of just over 20 miles [2] Eight marathons [3] Recce from Buttermere to Dalemain (33 miles) [4] One 46-mile Ultra [5] One 53-mile Ultra So in summary I feel stronger physically and mentally, and also better prepared. Last year I obviously got a few aspects wrong, but I take away a number of positives as well. I need to build on the positives and make a few adjustments to reduce or eliminate the negatives. The recce back in March reinforced my view that the initial aims for a ‘completer’ are: [1] Beat the cut-off at Buttermere. [2] Get to Braithwaite in as good as shape as possible. The section from Braithwaite to Howtown, in comparison to what is tackled before the gentle descent from Barrow Door, is definitely easier. So it is that section that I’d like to build as big a cushion as possible before the three major climbs before Ambleside, Fusedale, Gatescarth and Garburn. Last year the race was definitely too big for me, this year, I’ll find out WHEN I get back to Coniston at 7:30am on the Sunday morning.
Posted on: Sun, 29 Jun 2014 09:48:20 +0000
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