Monday - 15km

I lacked that extra gear today, so just got out and ran at my usual intensity (although slightly slower). Out along the Shelly-Fairlight Loop on a cool and windy morning. Apart from the council workers closing the pathway underneath the Queenscliff Bridge (in the space of literally one minute, as it was open when I ran underneath it for the third time [before shortly turning around for the final 800m back to North Steyne]), nothing to interesting to report apart from the GPS under-reading by 100m (yes, I ran the extra 100m to ensure that the Garmin read 15.00km). Got back to North Steyne in 55:03 (3:40’s), nothing special but nothing horrible either.

Sunday - 30km

Fantastic conditions for a run around the lake this morning. The first time I’ve worn a top (just a singlet) by choice since about September last year. A slightly moderate southwesterly was the only complaint, otherwise I felt really good. The effort felt much easier than the past few weeks, which is always a good thing. Got back to Harris Farm in 1:56:43 (3:53’s). Time for breakfast and a coffee!

Saturday - Parkrun

I was quite surprised to see that none of the fast guys showed up, especially considering that the Sydney10 is only a week away. That left me solo out the front on what was a slow, wet and windy morning - completely different conditions for a change, and arguably for the worst. I made sure that I didn’t go out too hard this week (much more respectable first kilometer in 3:07), but after that it was a struggle. Running into a headwind through puddles and mud wasn’t much fun, then it poured! Then on it was simply a battle of finishing. The time was terrible, 16:50, but the intensity and effort was definitely there. Not sure how much slower the conditions made it, so I’ll look at the positives and know that at worst I still got a great workout out there. I’ve had one of my fastest and most consistent week’s of running, so it’s not like I’ve suddenly lost it. A slow jog back home through a few more down pours. Glad I’m done for the day now!

Thursday - 15km

Up to North Head once again on a very foggy start to the day. At least the crowds were down compared to yesterday. Quite nice conditions, although a touch humid (very sweaty now, although that may be due to the fog). Felt good, which is unusual for a Thursday. Got back to North Steyne SLSC in 55:08 (3:40/1’s), happy with that. Now back to reality!

Wednesday - 15km

A slight cloud cover this morning kept conditions ideal, with a very slight drizzle towards the end. Out along the Shelly-Fairlight loop today, and it was absolute chaos along the beachfront - especially around Manly LSC. The most congested I’ve ever seen it, people everywhere, chairs being set-up and pretty much the whole path being blocked. I did my best to squeeze through as fast and elegantly as possible - which by my standards is a big compromise. Got back to North Steyne in 54:13 (3:37’s), a great time considering how much I had to slow down around Manly LSC. Felt good, so I had to make the most of it!

Tuesday - 15km

Up to North Head this morning on another stunning day. Good to see Justin back out there, obviously getting over his calf injury. Feeling good this morning, and was able to push the intensity somewhat. Got back to North Steyne in 55:16 (3:41’s), so a solid run.

Monday - 15km

Out for my usual Monday run alongnthe Shelly-Fairlight loop on another stunning morning. Feeling quite good for a Monday! I saw my good mate Barry early on - well, I should say I heard his name before I saw him. I was running past Queenscliff Lagoon early on when I heard a man yell out “BARRY” with a hint of desperation in his voice. Barry obligued this time as his owner frantically put him back on his leash. A shame really, as I could have used the company. Nothing else exciting to report, other than getting back to North Steyne in 54:14 (3:37’s). Very happy with that, a great way to start the (shortened) week!