Michael's Parish Blog

No Hope for Senile Blogger

2011-02-20T23:52:00.001-08:00

I'm afraid that there appears to be very little hope for me. I published the previous posting on the wrong 'Blog Account'

It should have been on:

michaelswelbeckblog.blogspot.com

Umpah Umpah

2011-02-16T23:50:00.000-08:00

Realizing you're older than the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, being treated by Doctors aged 10, not able to train through injury; all cliched signs that the years are catching up with me but the other week, an invitation dropping through the letterbox to my nephew's 30th birthday party this coming Saturday, really drove the message home.

Oh and one further clarification that you've definitely turned vintage is the total lack of enthusiasm when the reality dawns that it's not only fancy dress but a 'Bavarian' theme.

However, cajoled by Mrs. George whose imagination unfortunately matches mine, I managed to find the Costume Shop in Peel and with a stroke of luck brought about by my legendary lack of prowess at preparing the staff rota, I'd brought Adam in too early and we were able to dash out yesterday afternoon to try on and collect our costumes.

So it's lederhosen for me, this weekend and on hearing this news, my 13 year old son Terence to whom I am a continual source of embarrassment, immediately booked himself a trip to the National Cross Country on Saturday near Alton Towers to avoid the humiliation (actually that's a bit of artistic licence: it was already booked and paid for before we received the invitation but he's not too secretly pleased.)

Of course, yet another reminder of our time of life is the frequency of our nocturnal excursions and though usually, we are fortunate to go out once a month, we've also been asked to go to a 50th birthday party, the very same night. We may just call in to that afterwards (if the ravages of senility allow) but we might just have to change costume on the way.

Pictures to follow if uncensored.

Well Done, The Amazing Bethany Clague

2008-06-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

Bethany Clague's remarkable two lap feat did contain the odd moment of humour and I'd like to share with you one gem which I heard from Elizabeth Corran:

As most of you will probably be aware by now, towards the end of the second circuit, she was becoming really tired and even hallucinating. She was well supported over the final few miles by her family and close friends but really pretty much 'out of it.'

However, travelling along the promenade, she passed the bottom of Mona Drive (where the Welbeck Hotel is situated) and suddenly chimed, 'That Michael George is going to owe me alot of money,' before continuing for her final few metres.

I wasn't sure that she could definitely achieve her goal especially with the weather as vicious as it was but I am truly amazed at her tenacity.

Regarding the recent post on the 'Forum' by one of her back-up team, though I think the organising committee were very helpful towards Bethany on what was, let's face it quite a perilous attempt for which they no doubt would have received criticism had it not gone according to plan with Bethany arriving back in one piece.

She received no end of publicity through them to help with her charity, The Hyperbaric Chamber, yet they would have been within their right to wash their hands of what could have been a dangerous distraction to their main event.

I think by popular demand and with great sense, she was also given a platform to speak on the night of the presentation and I thought that she did receive something from Manx Telecom.

To summarise, let's all applaud Bethany's fantastic endurance and athleticism in what was a magnificent performance that most us could only marvel at and wouldn't dare attempt. That having been said, I think that anyone else should be actively discouraged from trying to follow in her footsteps especially during the race. The next person may want to do four laps or do it with a leg tied to their friend's and it may become a bit of a circus with the additional worry that the they might not be so brilliantly prepared both mentally and physically as Bethany.

I really hope that Bethany earns thousands of pounds for The Hyperbaric Chamber as she deserves to and I it think it may be their place rather than Manx Harriers (who are another non profit making organisation) to recognise the achievement with an award.

In Praise of The Ogre

2008-06-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

Nigel & Mark Clague in the London Marathon 2008.(Pic by Margaid Gosschalk)

I ended my last posting in a bit of a hurry and re-reading it I may have given the impression that my support, Nigel Armstrong is a mean, sadistic bastard with a savage mean streak that only ogres or say er.......dentists may possess.

Nothing could be further from the truth. He's a fantastic bloke and there are few more genuine chaps in athletics and in his defence, he was only following team orders (wasn't that what they said at Nuremburg?)

So I must publicly thank Nigel, Emma and Mark Clague because without them, there's no way I'd have even been out there, never mind finishing 4th.

I wasn't Careful What I Wished For!

2008-06-26T08:56:00.000-07:00

Well done to all of you who competed this year in the worst ever conditions (or so I am led to believe.) As I have not stopped saying all week, the sensible ones stopped at Rushen and to even reach the top of the 'Sloc' in that foul weather, was a major achievement in my opinion. If it was tough for the walkers, at least we were on the move. We should all take our hats off and bow to the marshals and officials who stayed at their posts when desertion would have led not even the hardest of hearts to call for their execution.

That 122 competitors finished, I thought was remarkable and the list of superb performances would be too long to type out here but I should mention Jock, Robbie and Maurice as they all trounced me, Sue Biggart who I I think would have beaten me and even threatened Maurice's third place had she not valiantly gone for the record. My own team mate, Dave Mackey was the fastest first time finisher and Marie Jackson with whom I did much of my training before I lost my momentum, somehow made it into 16th place and was surely the lightest finisher in the top twenty and perhaps in the race.

For me, everything was going perfectly well and according to plan. At the bottom of Ballakillowey, I was only about a hundred yards behind Jock and feeling in great form. Even at the top of that most difficult climb, I was still within two minutes of him despite not feeling that I had not put a great deal of effort into the ascent. I did drop back slightly further on the approach to the bottom of the Sloc but I could still see Sean already high up, Robbie at the base and Jock still within striking distance.

When I turned the corner, I did begin to struggle but I still was positive, thinking everyone else would be in the same boat. It was when the Sloc began to even out into a gentle hill that I should have regained my technique and pressed on but the strength just wasn't there and every time I tried to move up into my racing form, the wind would blow me off and I'd have to stroll along for a while and then begin again.

By the time I'd made it to the Round Table, I felt dreadful. The pain in my groin that I'd taken time off training trying to fix returned and my back was hurting. To ensure I felt thoroughly miserable, I was now 6 minutes behind Jock with Sue catching me fast.

Even on the downhill sections, I couldn't find my rhythm and it was chastening coming into Dalby, thinking I was really starting to motor when Sue overtook me! This is a tribute to the way she has concentrated on the technical aspects over the winter but at the time didn't make me feel any happier.

The excuses started to infiltrate my mind and I had more or less decided that I was going to quit at Peel. My back up, Nigel Armstrong was less than sympathetic, lets face it only a week earlier he'd ran two Marathons uphill and assured me despite my protestations it was too early for one, that this was just a bad patch and I'd come through soon.

Tactics now became essential. Not the ones that I should have been working on i.e. how to get back in the race but how could I convince Nigel that I needed to give up and go home. True romantic that he is, he'd met a young lady triathlete on his Comrades Marathon in South Africa and invited her to the Island to spend a weekend of love, watching a wimp like me, in the pouring rain and howling wind try to yellow belly my way out of the Parish. Surely, he'd just take the opportunity to whisk her off to a quiet warm restaurant and ply her with wine before making his advances. Not a bit of it! He was staying out there, so was she and that meant me too!

My one last clutch at the swinging straw was the 5,000m I'd been invited to walk at in Birmingham. I was going to save myself by retiring at German, so I'd be capable of recording a good time at the U.K. Athletics meeting. Nigel gave that short shrift too, reminding me what I'd been training for all this time.

The only thing I could do, my devious little mind concluded was throw in the towel at Patrick and then Nigel wouldn't find out until later! The only thing was that there was no nice hot car, steaming cup of tea or nice warm pub there and before I knew it, I'd been dibbed and off I went.

By the time I reached Ballaugh, I'd recovered somewhat and was quite amazed to hear that Jock had overtaken Robbie and despite all my travails, I was only about 18 minutes behind the latter man. Finally, I overtook Maurice and had Sue within about 20m on the approach to Jurby.

Remember early in this series, I told you that I was careful what I wished for? This time I'd told Nigel that he had to bully me into taking food and whilst also giving great encouragement on my progress, he was making certain that I ate what he was giving me. Unfortunately, some months previously, I had bought a pack of energy food where you don't get to pick what the flavours are. Unfortunately, one of the things it contained was a banana flavoured bar and me being me, instead of making sure it got the full treatment in the waste disposal or incinerator left it in the bottom of my bag and half of it had now been supplied to me and was sitting in my hand. Agonisingly slowly, I nibbled it until I was left with the tiniest piece. Absolutely disgusting but finally I disappeared that last morsel....for all of two seconds. My party piece was back and I threw up three times, losing all that hard fought ground in the process. Despite the diuralyte and whatever else Nigel gave me, about half an hour later ,I had another big slump in energy levels caused by the vomiting.

Once again though I was again on the up and by the top of Bride Hill, when faced by the race walker's paradise which is the long gentle slope down to Andreas, I was really able to power past Maurice and catch Sue who had been about 200m in front. By now, we were really paddling in the huge puddles, Sue trying to navigate between them with me just following due to the lack of wipers on my specs.

More good news. Robbie was down to 12 minutes in front by Sulby Bridge and with Sean already in retirement, I was feeling confident of being able to catch him up and perhaps even exert some pressure on Jock.

With Sue just in front of me, we were fairly powering into Ramsey, yet just as everything was feeling fine, sickness hit me once again and I was doubled over four times on the way into Parliament Square. Nigel, who had been almost everpresent had gone for provisions and when I found Mark Clague who was acting as deputy, he had none of the rehydration stuff.

After that any thoughts I had of the win were finished. The timing was bad but I'm not sure whether I was in good enough shape to have challenged anyway. The whole of the walk down the East Coast was horrible and I think quite dangerous as well with visibility very poor.

Once again, I was searching for any excuse not to complete the job and I was trying to think of a way to escape. To my mind Sue was nearly as tired and not moving with any of her earlier zeal and I was on the verge of asking Ray Pitts (Sue Biggart's support) to call the Control to see if he could get the race stopped and offer to share third prize, when Maurice stormed past us as though we weren't moving and I had to forget about my ghastly double dealing to try and catch him. Although, I was able to open a gap I was able to maintain to Sue, I have to give Maurice the credit he deserves and there was no way I could catch him.

I have to say that by the time I finished, I was just glad to have completed the course. Definitely, never again!

Jock Waddington is Brilliant

2008-06-24T01:33:00.000-07:00

I only have a few minutes, so I will probably write a more detailed account of my race a little later.

Sean Hands and Robbie Callister have already shown what great sportsmen they are in victory and defeat and I really admire the two of them but I really am thrilled that Jock won the Parish Walk (although obviously I would have preferred it to be me.)

Jock and I started the winter leagues at around the same time and he is always a true gentleman. I've been telling anyone who'd listen and many more who wouldn't that I felt he had a real chance this year.

As detailed in Murray's earlier feature on him, Jock also puts plenty back into athletics, can often be seen marshalling at events in which he isn't taking part and is a member of the IOMVAC Vets committee.

He and his wife Terri are always helpful to other competitors and I'll never forget the soup they gave me in the 100 mile race.

In short, it couldn't happen to a nicer bloke. Actually that's not true. A nicer bloke couldn't have made it happen. Oh well. That sounds like a load of bolocks but you know what I mean: He deserves it for all the hard work he put in.

Just Do it!

2008-06-19T23:45:00.000-07:00

Well Blogophiles, this is it. The next time I blog it will be from cloud 99 or from under a cloud and most of you will be feeling extremely sore, yet I hope we will have the satisfaction of having achieved our goals.

I have been planning to write this preview for a long time but typically have left it until the very last minute. Many times, I have mulled over what I would write and the phrases I would use. One of them was going to be: 'It's a long time since I actually managed to get a long distance walk right.' However, the truth is that having thought about this, I never have. All my 'ultra' walks have been beset by problems and I have never quite managed the 'even effort' which we all should aim for. Last year, despite finishing third was probably the worst ever, when my support crew came so close to 'Throwing in the towel' and calling for an ambulance when due to dehydration and failing with my feeding, I became very disorientated and almost collapsed at Andreas. They almost caught my 'meltdown' on camera as I was just about to 'hit the wall' but was saved by my back-up Nigel Armstrong who was ironically described on the commentary as 'A judge giving me a warning.'

That is one thing that I would like to clear up once and for all. The fact is that I was spoken to at Dalby Mountain by Graham Young, the chief judge and he said, 'You aremaking contact (i.e. totally legal) but I'm going to warn you unofficially to be very careful and make sure you get in a good long stride when you go down 'Glen Rushen.'' And then he watched me nearly every step of the way for about 6 miles.

There was another period towards Lonan when apparently 'Race Control' received a complaint about my walking from person unknown and I was told by someone in a marshal's top to 'Watch my walking' as I approached the church UPHILL! This could have put me off my stride but I was fortunate enough to have had Marie Jackson, an experienced racewalker and also a judge as the other member of my support team and with her encouragement was able to have confidence in my technique. That said, I was still unable to catch Ray Pitts.

Before I step down from the 'Dock/Witness Stand, Soapbox,' I would also like to point out that I have since competed in 'A' standard* races in Holland, England and in front of our own 'International Judge,' Steve Taylor and have not yet been even close to being disqualified. You should see me trying to type while gripping the desk for all its worth.

I hope you haven't fallen asleep before I actually came around to my thoughts on the race itself. Once again my opinion has changed as we approached the big day. A few months ago, I was beginning to see the challenge as 'just' beating Robbie. Since then Peter Kaneen has entered, Jock Waddington has supplemented his obvious talent with greater fitness and then Sean Hands who I was beginning think was a spent force after his early bath in 2007 and his subsequent non-appearance at any of the winter races has obviously put a lot more work in this year. His relaxed and confident manner in Murry's interview had precisely the opposite effect on me.

In some ways, I wonder if we can draw an analogy between Sean and a boxer. 'They never come back' was the old saying and there must be a similar fear about putting your body through it again after a couple of years absence. However, I believe he has the temperament to overcome this and I now see him as the 'favourite' to accomplish a repeat performance of his 2006 triumph. One man whose mental or physical strength can never be questioned is Robbie Callister and while I do not foresee him ever going much faster than he has already due to the limitations of his style, whoever is challenging him knows that they have to put in a really exceptional performance to beat him.

My gut feeling is that even if Peter Kaneen crosses the start line, he doesn't really possess the background fitness this year that is required for the magnitude that is the Parish Walk. He has not been on form even on the shorter distances (though still quicker than me) and I can't really see this translating into victory come Saturday night. One man who has been in top form and peak condition is Jock Waddington who despite being given little chance by other pundits, even being described as a comparitive novice last year in one piece. It is rough justice that he has been laid low with a cold over the past few days, yet he told me last night that his appetite has been unaffected and could he possibly still be a contender, though I suspect that his misfortune may just take the edge off his chances of glory.

Me personally? I've gone through the worrying whether I've concentrated on endurance enough or should I have tapered for my 50k race, thereby losing valuable training opportunities and whether I could have managed a few more decent sessions in the last two months instead of trying to sort my groin injury and am now just looking forward to enjoying the day. My plan is to sit in behind Robbie and Sean, get quite close at Rushen before letting them pull out a bigger lead over the Sloc. Last year I wasn't nearly patient enough and put in a huge effort to reel Robbie in on the approach to Peel and suffered the consequences. If I am able to stay in touch, I imagine, Sean will be hoping to make the break in the area between Kirk Michael and Bride and I will try and join Robbie and keep Sean within striking distance. The idea is to sail into the lead toward the end of the race, me being the fastest man with a chance of victory at that stage, though I know only too well how speed can be blunted by distance and am very well aware of the power and iron will of both of those fine athletes.

I really don't see the point of me trying for third place again and if the opportunity does present itself, I intend to go for victory even if it ends in humiliation but that said; I still have to use my brain and must be aware of many different scenarios that may arise besides the one I have imagined.

My expectation is that battle behind the lead from 5th place in the men's will be between Alan Cowin,Martijn Biesmans, Terry Moffatt, Chris Cale, Andrew Titley and perhaps Michael Shipsides.

Try your best to beat them (but not me.)

If you're walking tomorrow, I wish you the best of luck and if you're spectating, assisting or officiating I hope that you don't get too wet and enjoy a not too exciting race that I win quite easily. Unfortunately, that is more of a dream than an expectation.

Girls On Top

2008-06-19T00:36:00.000-07:00

I didn't ever get around to finishing my life story in athletics but I'm sure that the world won't stop turning and that you'll be able to munch on your pre-race breakfast Saturday without worrying that you've missed out on some vital piece of information.

Who do you think is going to win?

Sue Biggart will walk off as the outstanding favourite in my opinion, as she has gone much quicker in the past than any of the other leading ladies and there is no reason despite her dancing exploits(she recently competed in the Manx Celebrity Come Dancing)o assume that she has not prepared as thoroughly as usual.

There are a couple of dark horses in the race who have the talent to displace Sue but will they have the experience and determination? There is Janice Quirk who was the first woman in the End to End and who had a splendid debut finish in last year's event with a superb 19.01 but the one lady in my opinion who is in with a real chance and she won't thank me for shouting it form the rooftops is Marie Jackson.

Marie finished in 2000 in just over 20 hours I think but at that time she was yet to develop the style that has made her the most consistant manx racewalker at most distances(don't mention 5k to her) over the last five years or so. She won the 'End to End' on the old east course and last year won silver (individiual) and gold(team) medals in the World Masters 20k. Before that I wouldn't have given her much hope in the Parish Walk but such achievement really bolstered her confidence and she went on to win the National 50k title in april this year.

Most eagerly anticipated sporting battles contain a contrast between the athletes involved and this is no exception. Sue is strong and very Parish Walk orientated with seven previous finishes in as many years and apart from last year each one quicker than the previous. Although very much a one event specialist, she also came home second lady in the National 100 miles held at N.S.C. in 2006 (lapping me at least once in the process.) Marie by comparison though slight in stature is very steely but the other major difference, despite Sue trying very hard to improve over the winter is that Marie posesses an excellent racewalking technique and therefore should move much more economically.

What I have written above is possibly a little disrespectful to Jane Mooney and Alison Brand(did I hear that Ali isn't aiming for a finish this year?) who both put in brilliant performances last year to post 17:26 and 17:31 and should any of the above three not quite realise my expectations, then there's no doubt they'll be right in there.

Roey Crellin, still fastest Manx born woman(17:12) was not quite up to her best in 2007 but if she shows her true ability may just feature, as may Marie Gilbertson or Terri Salmon.

As I remarked at the outset, Sue Biggart is in pole position but this could be the best ever race.

As usual as I say on these previews, if I've missed you off or undersold you, I apologise but just go out there and prove me wrong.

Bring on the Parish Walk Boogie Woogie

2008-06-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

The latest news in this constant tale of woe is that Jock Waddington hasn't been too well. Apparently, he was supposed to go to Jools Holland last night but was laid up instead. Hopefully, his indisposition(that spelling doesn't look right but time is precious) is temporary and he'll be fully recovered for Saturday. In fact he probably should have gone to the concert because it was lively enough to wake the dead!

At this rate no one will tell me anything in case it finds its way into my 'Blog,' yet I am like a news hungry beast at the moment and probably ready to fall for any old spoof.

Did anyone else get the text about tapering? No one has owned up to that one as yet.

The latest weather forecast is better than the first which is certainly good for all the officials but temperature is more important for us walkers and a maximum of 16c should just about do the job.

I suppose that should lead on to the tip for the day which I think is to make sure you have head covering if the sun is out, not to mention U.V. protection cream. If it gets to the stage when you are needing to apply the sponges, the best place is to the back of the neck where the cool water will be most effective. Vaseline is also essential for all parts that may chafe, especiallyu in hot or wet conditions and I'm sure I don't need to spell that out everyone, as some of them are more gender specific than others. Some recommend the petroleum jelly for the feet as well, although I have left mine without in recent years as I find my foot blisters from moving within the sock.

Oh well, I'll try and give you my insights on how I think the race will pan out tomorrow but for now I'll have to leave you.

Post no. 74... Where Michael Blogs Instead of Engaging with Henry

2008-06-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

I don't know if someone was winding me up but I just received a text purportedly off 'Parish Walk Information,' off a 166--- number basically telling me not to train and rest my weary legs. My guess that its someone from Manx Telecom or high up in the organisation pulling my leg after my earlier rant but 'ITS TROOOE!'

Well each to their own anyway. If Sean, Robbie and Jock fancy doing a couple of 20 milers between now and Saturday, who am I to stop them?

I just heard some more bad news and it seems that Ian Wakely who did so well on the Sarah Killey Memorial race has also had to withdraw due to knee trouble.

The excitement is really starting to grip me now and this afternoon when I was supposed to be rapt by an important meeting of accommodation providers, I could think of little else but the race. Perhaps my mind is actually being more practical and just doing anything to avoid work because I had decided to come home, introduce our 'Henry*' to the carpet before preparing tea and all I have done is read Rich Wild's blog, checked my own for comments before reading Murray's 'Stats' and having a look at mine. I'm afraid that my technical wizardry has come to the fore again though and I'm not really sure what the difference is between, 'Pageloads,' 'Unique Visitors' and 'Returning Visitors.' It sounds simple enough but they don't really seem to add up. Me being more than a bit thick as usual I think.

Luckily, our Terence is away with school at the 'Venture Centre,' this week, so I'm filling my time whiling away the minutes before the 'Big Off' doing a few things i don't usually do. Last night, we took advantage of the weather and went looking for sharks but failed and four extremely playful seals at Peel had to do. Tonight, I'm off to Jools Holland but will have to keep my dancing in check (see above re not over exercising,) then tomorrow, it's 'Blood Brothers.'

Therefore, I shouldn't start climbing the walls before Thursday.

* For those of you of a less than domestic ilk, Henry's the vacuum cleaner.

Will he? Won't he? Will he? Won't he? ..............Oh Who Cares Anyway?

2008-06-16T23:55:00.000-07:00

I don't know. I was asked to subtly announce that Mark Hempsall wasn't walking (Hence the title 'Hempsall Out,') bearing in mind that I thought I had an impeccable source (i.e. Conan The Destroyer's mouth) and now he tells me, he's changed his mind! He's 'just' walking to Peel as training for the '100 miles' in Milton Keynes this August. For anyone who thinks he may be pulling a flanker, though, he has promised to back up Dave Mackey from 8pm, so you won't be the only one chasing him with an axe if he continues.

Briefly, I had hoped that the previous paragraph may mean a resurrection of the chances for our team Eminem & Eminem but I have also heard that Matt Haddock has suffered an ankle injury and in the interest of his '100' ambitions will also bow out at German.

More gossip: Peter Kaneen has still not decided whether or not to start the race though in honesty, I really can't see him featuring at the sharp end due to the interruptions in his training this year. However, Beware! Last time he didn't think he'd pass Santon i.e 2003, he went and won it!

I also have it on good authority that Eamon Harkin will be accompanying his daughter, Breeshey who has entered the U21 race, so the top ten will be losing another of its regular inhabitants.

If you add into this the absence of Ray Pitts, Thomas Melvin, Jane Kennaugh (unless she's found another alias,)the aforementioned big dude, there is plenty of scope for new heroes to emerge and I think that the standard this year will be higher than ever.

My favourites to enter the higher echelon for the first time would be Chris Cale, Marie Jackson and Janice Quirk but if you're out there and have put in the effort, the sky's the limit.

Aaaaaargghh!!

2008-06-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

Nooooo! Stoooop iit! Stooop! Noooow!!!! It's too Laaate!!!

There's people everywhere walking at full tilt! Stop it now! It's too late!

I hope that got your attention!

If you're still training now the only thing you're going to improve is your chances of being injured and being knackered on the day!

The idea this week if you can't contemplate the thought of no exercise after all these months of hard work is to warm up as if you were about to do a major training session and then stop. This will keep your body loose and perhaps lessen the possibility of your brain melting down but any hard work this week will be counter productive.

If you haven't already made your lists up and done the shopping, write down everything that you could conceivably need. Don't forget clothes for the end, vaseline, spare everything including socks and shoes, a luminous vest to pin your number on to so that you can change quickly in varying weather conditions, loads of food, bananas, water, sports drinks, a head torch, new feet and a second brain that you can't unprogram that says, 'Never do this again!'

I hope to write more tomorrow.

Little Islander

2008-06-14T03:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a dilemma for you. Nine days before the biggest race of my life to date, I received an invitation to compete at the UK Athletics Championships and Team GB Trials in the 5k track racewalk (you may remember that Peter Kaneen won bronze last year.)

This would give me the opportunity to compete on the same stage as some of the biggest names in British Athletics and even any friends or family that I take with me have to pay, from £12 per ticket.

So, I here you ask: What's the dilemma? It's only three weeks after the Parish Walk and I'm sure I won't be able to do myself justice with 85 miles in my legs. Do I give up what could be a once in a lifetime opportunity to taste life at the top of the UK table for what is a provincial ramble around the Isle of Man at an unrecognised distance? No comparison can be made between the events and in honesty this could be my once in a lifetime opportunity to win our own 'Blue Riband' race when you think of how increasingly competitive it is becoming. So there's little contest in my mind. This could be my 'Parish Walk' whereas 5k is my least favourite distance (I'm ranked 14th in the UK as opposed to 12th at 10k, 9th at 20k and 4th at 50k) and I have little chance of finishing on the same lap as the winner even at my best.

I'll just have to hope that at 42 years of age, I can continue to improve and they'll give me another shot at stardom after turning them down this time.

Scaring the Spectators

2008-06-11T23:57:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday's race was also a bit of a walking striptease for me:

Immediately prior to the start, I decided that the spetacles had to go. As usual, my relationship with my 'Garmin' sports watch was fraught, hampered this time not by my inability to work it properly but because I didn't start it and in a fit of pique, threw £160 worth of gadgetry at the assembled officials.

By the time the next lap came round, my hat which was atop my scone mainly to keep the glasses dry that I wasn't wearing was the next item to be jettisoned and as by now, I didn't it would seeem have much more to take off, the few spectators were becoming visibly peturbed.

They needn't have worried. The 'Breath-rite' nasal strip that Peter Kaneen had kindly supplied me with succumbed to the damp in the air and came off one side of my nose. I'm not sure they look too 'cool' at the best of times but standing like an antenna, it definitely had to go.

The next lap there was a 'frisson' in the air as the onlookers quaked in their boots but despite threatening to remove my shorts, I had nothing left to give. Pretty much describes my walk as well.

Two Laps of the Parish Walk Course? Just Watch Bethany Go!

2008-06-09T06:35:00.000-07:00

Just in case anybody was wondering what I was referring to re. Bethany Clague, I suggest you take a look at her website http://www.manxcat.org.uk/bethany/parish.htm where amongst all her other heroic deeds, she also details how she will be attempting to do TWO laps of the Parish Walk Course this year. The picture above is from the Blackpool 1/2 Marathon where she recently set a PB

Great Balls a Fire

2008-06-04T23:36:00.000-07:00

I remounted the horse last Wednesday in the 10k track walk which was quite poorly supported. Despite the low number of walkers, it was good to see Neil Brogan and Matthew Betteridge make their debuts on the track and excellent to witness two PBs from Vinny Lynch (57:29) and even more notably, Lauren Whelan who posted a superb 56:17.

It's really tough, 25 laps of the track and at this time of year, I struggle a little with 'exercise induced asthma' despite the use of an inhaler. Unfortunately, I was unable to exert any pressure on the winner, Peter Kaneen, though I have to say I was pleased to roll in less than a minute behind him, in a time under 50 minutes, despite not really training for the event.

In the run there were some excellent performances, too, notably from the winner, Martin Malone, Andy Fox and webmeister, Murray Lambden who announced his return to form despite not being tactically at his best (see his own Blog.)

It was also good to note, Mike Garrett finishing in one piece and member of my back-up team, Mark Clague put a decent display in his first attempt on the track, although I am sure there is more to come from him.

Surprise of the night? Has to be Bethany Clague missing the walk before competing in the run. Is she going soft?

It was also pleasing not to have suffered any reaction from my groin injury, though it did present me with another 'Do' 'Don't' for you. If your fitness adviser (Mark Hempsall in this case) recommends the use of ,'Deep Heat,' before a race, be careful where and how you rub it in. Due to the location of my problem, it certainly gave me a very interesting few minutes, hence the title of this post.

Don't Forget 10k Track Walk & Run at the N.S.C. Tomorrow

2008-06-03T04:23:00.000-07:00

Referring to young Matthew's comments on my last posting, how about we now call ourselves the '3FM (the F accounts for Mackey's swearing, then there's Matt, Mike & Mac) Onchan Combi Rejects?' I reckon a sponsorship deal from the radio station could contribute towards Dave's next BMW and then all I need to do now is to contact Elizabeth Corran to tell her to white out 1600 Eminem & Eminem's and replace them with our new tongue tripping handle before the programmes are sent out.

If I could stop enjoying myself long enough, despondency would be setting in, as the only training I have done is the aforementioned ill-fated hill session. While my spy network informs me that Sean & Jock are still hard at it, the only thing I seem to be getting harder at is the the TT festival. My team captain, Dave Mackey has long since foresworn the alcohol whereas I actually seem to be imbibing more and with a trip on the Karina to see the fireworks planned for tomorrow, followed by dinner on Thursday with some of our biker guests, the forecast for the next few days is 'Wet to Very Wet' (and that's not the weather.)

Perhaps I'm just not cut out for the dedication required to win this Parish thing. Do you think they could move it forwards a few weeks next year just for me?

On a more positive note, I do intend to race tomorrow night, before I set sail on board that mighty vessel and I think all you bloggophiles should blow away the TT cobwebs with a good blast at 10k around the track. Signing on at N.S.C. from 6pm with the start at 6.30pm tomorrow. If you think you would gain more from a run (Robbie C competed last year) signing on is at 7:15pm with the gun firing at approximately 7:45.

Regarding the picture on the front of Manx Athletics, it is a coincidence that we (The Welbeck) have given John Crellin a little assistance for many years and that he was just about to be overtaken by Chris McGahan, now domiciled in Peel, to whom we also chip in with a little bit of sponsorship.

I was party to the conversation with former sprinter, Nicola Dixon and apparently, she has a Newspaper cutting buried somewhere with the headline: 'Fastest Girl on the Island.' She remains pretty nippy when it comes to the race to the bar for the Guinness.

Hempsall Out, Cowin in Great Form and Oops I've Done It Again!

2008-05-29T23:20:00.000-07:00

Having been initially concerned that I wouldn't have enough material to fill a 'Blog,' now I am more worried that I won't have time to complete all the things I intend to include. With this site being launched so early, late last year, my plan was to follow the rough template set by last year's 'Bloggers,' Dave, Steve and Mark (Mark, I promise there is no insult intended by putting you last in that group of three) by posting roughly once per week. I suppose you could say I've gone for quantity rather than quality.

Unfortunately, today's 'Post' is yet another example of me leading by bad example. The idea for Wednesday was to walk a steady hour and a half, then follow it up with a fast 5 miles on Thursday.

Today's lesson: This close to a big race, don't try anything radical or new.

Rapidly running out of the usual suspects that I walk with as they either weren't coming out to play or had already trained, I telephoned Mark Hempsall who I usually try to avoid midweek as he does all these mad hill sessiony things. However, on this occasion as I didn't fancy being 'Billy No Mates,' I decided to give it a blast.

Alan Cowin, was also in the company and we set off to climb the Saddlestone Mountains. I really intend to rest on the uphill sections of the course, so although I have included many, many inclines in my training which I have ascended at a much swifter pace than I will be on the day (lets face it we can hardly avoid them over here) I have shied away from specifically targeting hills as part of my programme.

As I mentioned previously, the original plan was for a fairly easy walk and therefore, I wasn't trying to mix it with the lads on the first four reps and they showed me two clean pairs of heels. However, as the fifth materialised and it was longer and less steep than the initial ones, the competitive juices had began to flow and I couldn't resist 'Giving it a blast!'

Mark who in the past I have labelled, 'Conan the Destroyer' because of his Arnold Schwarzenegger physique and aggressive power walking technique, is a formidable opponent at anything but the hills are his particular domain. Given the gentle rise on this one, though, I just about managed to hold him off.

Despite knowing earlier in my own mind that I would finish after one round, we went back to 'Copse Hill,' our first one. I was now, fancying myself to beat Mark up a steeper incline especially as he has laid off walking training since the 'Sarah Killey,' only cycling some 2 to 300 miles a week. We had a great battle but Mark, switching from 'Arnie' to 'Groucho,'(You have to see it to believe it) emerged the victor by about 3 to 4 yards.

And then, they were doing, 'The Fun Part' i.e. walking backwards upwards which apparently is very good for strengthening the 'quads.'

What is wasn't good for though, was my long standing groin injury which I finally thought I'd cured (by specific groin strengthening and core strengthening excercises given to me by the aforementioned Mr Hempsall) and only after about 40 or 50m, it was hurting once again and now I'm sidelined for another few days to try and fix it.

Incidentally, there is no truth to the scurrilous rumour that Mark deliberately sabotaged me so that he could make more money putting me back together again. However, what is true is that unfortunately, he has decided to withdraw from this year's race. As I alluded to earlier, he hasn't properly recovered from what he thinks is a stress fracture he sustained during his epic battle with Jock Waddington and though there seemed little evidence to me that he was anything but 100% fit as he disappeared into the distance the other night, he doesn't feel confident that it will hold out for the full 85 miles.

The better news is that he has generously agreed to support erstwhile team member, and captain, Dave Mackey into the wee small hours. One question for Dave though: Will we now be called, Eminem & Em now that we are missing an 'M?' Suggestions for new name in the comments, please.

Bob Corrin's recent question on Manx Athletics Forum opened a discussion about seedings which Murray has followed up on his blog. I don't quite know how I have been placed in front of Peter Kaneen. One who seems to have slipped under the 'Planter's' (of seeds getit?) radar is Alan Cowin who has been training for this event for the last 16 months or so. The top football referee (he was in charge for this year's F.A.Cup Final) is in great shape after his 3rd place in the 'Seven Stations.' He has entered the Parish five times previously, finishing 10th on his 4th attempt in 2004 in 18:07, following that up with 16:39 and 6th place in 2006. He is unbeaten against me in all the four races we have both competed in, yet I only actually met him earlier this year. Of course whatever number is on his vest won't affect his performance but I have a sneaking suspicion he will once again be in that top ten belying his lowly seeding of 151.

So to recap, I'm cursing my stupidity because I went and did something very out of the ordinary in the lead up to the race. This is the time to develop ultra conservatism. Try not to do anything out of the ordinary over the next few weeks and scale down your training. I seem to have got away with it this time but I won't be doing that again.

Training at the Bowl. Or was it the Bowel?

2008-05-26T23:18:00.000-07:00

Well Bloggophiles! If you haven't done the training by now, it's really too late to start going out walking 20 miles.

We are now into 'The Taper,' where you start knocking down the miles and it is also a good idea to spend 2 to 3 hour sessions, at your intended Parish pace, perhaps practising taking food and drinks on board.

Shorter walks at a faster pace will also do you no harm.

If you've just noticed the date on the calender and think you've totally blown it by not doing any preparation at all, don't panic, you still have time to work on conditioning which could involve runs and/or walking quickly but nothing for too long or you will be knackered come the big day. It's certainly not the recommended way to go and possibly a little dangerous if you intend to go the full distance but some have managed pretty amazing feats with little prior work.

Training over TT week can be difficult but I'm sure there are plenty of places where the bikes rarely get to and there's always the 'Bowl,' not forgetting that next week (Wednesday I think) there is a rare opportunity to compete in a 10k track race.

I'm always conscious that this is a blog that could be read by all the family and also by those of less than strong constitution who've just eaten but feel I would be failing you loyal bloggies, especially race newcomers if I didn't mention it. Get into the habit of visiting the toilet first thing in the morning and filling it. Too much information, I know but holding your cheeks together while trying to ascend the 'Sloc' is not where your concentration should be aimed at. Keep your focus on the bum in front!

Jocked Off

2008-05-22T23:32:00.000-07:00

The weather may have put a few people off but I would like to thank Mo Cox for coming to watch Jock Waddington, Maurice Bellando and me walking downhill a few times last night and then for judging in the 5k race that followed.

There was a small but good quality field including Vinny Lynch, Dave Mackey, Carl Wild, Brian Brough, James Green, John Robinson, juniors Hannah Kelly walking 2k, Lauren Whelan and Jessica Isherwood 3k.

I think it would be fair to say that in the absence of Peter Kaneen (well he was there but not racing,) I started the race favourite. Some people have questioned whether he trains quite enough but since his superb joint win in the Sarah Killey Memorial, Jock Waddington has put in a 20 miler and two 11 mile walks in every week.

We were locked together in battle from the start with Jock pulling out a slight lead over the first 2k with Vinny and Dave vying for the third spot. By the fourth k, I decided to take Jock on but was unable to break away and over the final 500m, he really turned the screw and left me trailing in his wake, winning by 12 seconds in an impressive time of 23 minutes 39 seconds.

Marie Jackson said it was the first time she'd ever seen him not look like he was out walking the dog.

Dave Mackey in his first 5k race, couldn't stay with Vinny Lynch who also recorded his fastest ever time. Dave agonisingly missed out on breaking 30 minutes by just 15 seconds. They were followed by John Robinson, junior & 5k debutant, James Green and Carl Wild. Brian Brough walked on gamely despite Mo pinching the course marking cone on him, being saved by the famous graffiti artist Allan 'Leapy Lee' Callow who had drawn little yellow arrows on the road.

Many thanks to Bridget & Judy who seem to contribute so much that they should be on 'overtime' money, Allan Callow, Elizabeth Corran and Steve Taylor.

Despite being beaten, I was very pleased to set my new P.B., a full 13 seconds quicker than I managed in this race last year. I have recently described Jock as a 'Coming Man' and he certainly came last night. Perhaps if the survey was run again today, he might gain a little more than 10% of the votes and I certainly can't see him finishing behind 'Others' again.

So, I turned up for my two dates last night but another bloke walked off with my prize.

I'd Love to Meet You for a Date Tonight, Maybe Two

2008-05-22T05:51:00.000-07:00

Another hurried 'Post' I'm afraid but things are quite frantic.

Tonight as I mentioned on the 'Forum,' yesterday, Maureen Cox has kindly agreed to help me and anyone else who would care to turn up by making sure that our downhill walking actions comply with the rules.

For anyone who has designs on a top ten placing, I reckon it is very important as 'Time Penalties' are to be used for the first time for walkers breaking contact with the ground and hard earned time gained could be very easily added.

Whatever style you use to propel yourself, it is best to be able to walk with confidence, though it won't actually be Mo judging on the day it is useful to know what the officials are looking for and at.

The session will start at approximately 17:45 on the Marine Drive which has some fairly decent hills on the closed section. If you want any further information or know where exactly to meet, call me on 491695.

Immediately following is the Open 5K walking race on the TT Access Road which is a good short, sharp test and the second last race as far as I am aware before 'P Day.' Signing on for this 'FREE' race is at the Manx Harriers Clubhouse

I hope to see as many of you as possible this evening at either or both events.

Abducted by Aliens

2008-05-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

Greetings Blogophiles!

I couldn't keep this from you a moment longer:

The key has returned! Apparently it spent the last 10 days on top of a beer barrel with another keg on top of it. Vaguely, I seem to remember breaking the plastic covering on a case of cider with it. I was so close to giving up and calling the vehicle recovery firm, only the reluctance (some would call it stubborness) to break into my hard earned cash prevented me from doing so.

A lesson has been learned though and I will have to take it to the dealers to have another couple of spares programmed whatever the cost.

On the walking front, I only trained(a euphemism for going to pick up the car after a boozy night) for 25 minutes on Sunday. On Monday, I attempted to play football extremely badly even by my standard and followed that up by doing 6 x 500m with Lauren Whelan.

As I hadn't had a day off this week, today after working breakfast, Irene and I did the Baldwin Valley loop, though it was a bit of a struggle for her as she is struggling to recover from a hip injury.

Don't forget to turn up on Thursday night for the 5k TT Access Road Race, signing on at the Manx Harriers Clubhouse from 18:30.

I wonder was that key really there all that time or are there darker forces at play?

Well Done Terence

2008-05-18T05:55:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to my son Terence who by virtue of some rather generous handicapping, not to mention a fine run, managed to win the 2nd round of the Dave Phillips two lap race by a staggering 4 minutes and 23 seconds!

He'd better enjoy it while it lasts because I can see him starting the next one quite a little bit later.

Greetings To Elizabeth and Matthew in WebSurfers Paradise

2008-05-18T05:19:00.000-07:00

You know, apart from other obvious reasons, such as guilt and betrayal etc., I would never have an affair for the simple reason that by some quirk of fate, I'd immediately be caught.

There am I thinking that I'm totally safe in my own personal 'Garden Shed,' otherwise known as 'Michael's Parish Blog,' when all of a sudden, Mrs. George announces over lunch, 'I read about the Marathon in your blog the other day,' I actually blushed like someone found with their trousers round their ankles!

It turns out that Elizabeth and Matthew, our eldest kids who've gone all antipodean on us were looking for my 'Blog,' for a taste of home. Irene couldn't remember off the top of her head exactly where it was in Murray's web of intrigue and actually ended up reading my latest posting after searching for the whereabouts of my ramblings. It's only the second one she's looked at since I started way back in December and there am I boasting about me being safely in a wife-free zone!

However, I reckon lightning couldn't possibly strike twice, so if you are logging on and indulging in Websurfers Paradise, how about looking to see if there are any races on Down Under over Christmas when we come to see you? And don't tell, Mum!

It's quite incredible that anyone will be able to follow the race from all the way down there in Australia and I'm going to put Matt's text no. down as one of my two mobiles to make sure they know what's going whether they're too busy enjoying themselves or not.

Racewalk Blog? More of a Ramble Really

2008-05-16T23:31:00.000-07:00

Back to the present for now and I was very pleased on Thursday to put in my first proper 'pace' session for about 5 to 6 weeks as firstly, I was tapering for the 50k race and then in recovery afterwards.

It's an injury waiting to happen if you try to come back too soon to hard training after a hard race or a long practice walk.

The task I was set included 12 x 500m in 2 minutes 20 seconds with 50m strolling to try and rest my wheezing lungs. I couldn't quite ascertain how to work out the 50m distance, so using the hot weather as a convenient excuse, I extended my mid sprint break to 100m. If you're wondering how I know when I've travelled 100m, there are yellow paint splodges all around the perimeter track at the N.S.C.

The secret to achieving the maximum benefit from interval training for walking and running is to ensure you don't start too fast and are still able to maintain the speed until your last rep. This is excellent for improving your conditioning and most endurance athletes would agree that this method of improving your pace is essential as part of your build up to a long distance event.

Fortunately, I managed to keep to my targets and was even able to cut my last one down to 2:13.

I then used Allan Callow's Thursday evening training session to warm down with the aim of reducing the lactic acids from the muscles for the following day.

This last tactic (lactic tactic?) was fairly successful, so yesterday (Friday,) I walked in a roundabout way to Kaneen's Garage in Union Mills to collect my mother's car which had been in for service. Another recommended idea is to practise walking in the way that you will on the big day and therefore I tried to maintain a steady 10.5 minute mile. Don't forget to test which foods will suit you and to try and work out a basic menu for 21st June. As with any predeterminations, don't be afraid to change according to the conditions or because its not working but there is nothing wrong with having a loose framework for your support crew.

Dave Mackey has asked on the 'Forum,' about 'carb-loading' and it's possible you could receive a different answer from everyone you ask.

Personally, I try and follow the method taught to me by Nigel Armstrong and this is largely corroborated by the Australian Institute of Sport website. Over a five day period, I greatly reduce the protein from my diet, not eating meat nor much at all in the way of fatty foods. A common mistake is to actually pig out on carbohydrates but the idea is just to replace protein with them to increase the amount of glycogen in the muscles.

As you know the scientists are always changing their minds but interestingly, last year when I read the AIS information, they were stating that you can only effectively 'carb-load,' four times a year and that there was no evidence that ladies gain any benefit from using it.

Making sure that iron levels are correct was given great importance especially for females.

Oh well, that's the conclusion of today's ramble. I hope it's useful to somebody but bear in mind that I'm not a coach, not qualified in sports nutrition and am prone to getting things very wrong in races.

My Final Run

2008-05-14T23:54:00.000-07:00

So Bloggies, back to 2006.

The Flora London Marathon is a great experience and I would urge anyone to have a go at least once in their lifetimes.

We travelled on the Friday to London City Airport which is in itself enjoyable as we had a tour around the capital in the air before landing.

The original deal was that if Irene and I ran the Marathon, then when we returned we would both learn to dance. Fortunately, for me and possibly her own toes, she has never actually held me to that.

The airport is also very close to the place where you sign on and on the Friday when we travelled it wasn't too hectic in the exhibition centre.

In my opinion, the most difficult aspects of travelling away for events are managing to eat properly, particularly if you are carb-loading, being on holiday and not having loads to drink and trying to relax and do nothing, especially if your hotel room is not that large or comfortable.

The Regent Palace is perfectly located for the FLM, being very handy for the Tube and close to the finish. In addition, they provide pasta meals specifically for the athletes, the rates are reasonable but in honesty, the rooms are quite small and not ideal for spending lots of time in.

When you are accepted for the FLM, you get advice by the bucketload and one piece is to remember what you are there for and not to get too much sightseeing in the day before. Saturday was a lovely day, so we just went for a wander down to the 'Mall' to see the finish and then on to the next park, then the next park, then the next park and before you knew it, we had been walking for two and a half hours, were knackered, starving hungry and thirsty. Yep we'd broken just about every rule in pre-marathon preparation.

As usual my planning also reached farcical levels. The day before I left the Island, I finally forked out to buy a stopwatch, so I wouldn't have to carry my mobile phone as I'd become famous for doing in races by this time, only to unpack it in London to discover my purchase was actually a heart monitor. I'd also decided to look for a bumbag or pouch to carry my gels in but we just didn't find one in the shops that we passed.

The day of the race, the fine weather had disappeared and there was a steady drizzle that hadn't been included in the original forecast. For the London Marathon, there are three different starts, so therefore Irene and I had to part company in Black.

The atmosphere is one of eager anticipation and fortunately having brought a black binbag to wear before the race, I was in good spirits and not too cold. For the first time, I was running a long race without pockets in my shorts, so now my failure to acquire something to contain my food became a major worry.

I decided to pop them into the waistband of my Manx Harriers kit as I'd also neglected to get some sticky tape or plasters. The FLM is started in groups determined by the time you mark down on your entry form, so the beginning was a little bit like the PW because you can't get a decent run and in my case this was exacerbated by the fact the all the celebrities were set off in front of me.

Of course, my planned first mile of 6:50 was a minute slower and therefore I panicked and then put in a couple of quick ones after that managing to lose all but one of my gels.

I actually remember very little of where I was during the race but I supppose the features that really stood out were the pubs and the people, all braving absolutely abominable weather. Live bands were creating a cacophony of sound which at times overlapped. There's that chef, I heard at one stage and briefly wondered how they knew I used to cook before realising I was passing Gordon Ramsey.

When the three starts came together, I saw Andy Gosnell one of our local runners and former top parish competitor and it was a great boost to see Manxies at the side of the road such as Gary Ashe, Nigel Armstrong's mum and John Rogers.

All the kids want to slap your hand as you go past and everyone shouts the name written on your running vest. Even slower than usual, it was a while before I realised I was the subject of, 'Come On, Manx!' It was an unwanted surprise to pass Murray though who was struggling.

In my previous marathon, I hadn't 'hit the Wall' until 25 miles but this time after 18 miles the extra pace and the dropped gels began to tell and I really suffered for a while. Eventually, I turned on the the Embankment and I had a girl just behind me whom everyone seemed to be shouting for. From somewhere I gathered my strength for one last effort and flew for home. I think it was around here that I overtook Mark Clague and Ed Gumbley before rounding the corner towards Buckingham Palace and racing on the outside of Paul Curphey.

My target of 3 hours was all but gone but my endeavour was still there and I really powered towards the line to miss out by just over a minute. It was really flattering to see recently that my 40k to finish is still in the top ten quickest of locals since about 2002.

Irene without any prior training managed to circulate in 6:02 which I thought was pretty good in the circumstances (I'm not buttering her up; I can say anything I want because she doesn't actually read this rubbish.) I've no time to research this now and I can't recall where I was placed but I was second local behind Nigel Armstrong and beat my P.B. by around 13 minutes. In typical athletic/fisherman style I still consider this as the one that got away and the what ifs are still hanging because it was to be the first and last running race I ever seriously trained for.

Since that day I ditched the two feet off the ground branch of the sport to concentrate on the walking.

Some Key Points

2008-05-13T23:58:00.000-07:00

It's a good thing I had the 'Dream Sunday' because Friday and Saturday I had a double recurring nightmare!

The only tenuous link that this story has to do with the Parish Walk, is that it will be a minor miracle if I manage to arrive at the start line, never mind put in the organisation and planning needed for an 85 mile race.

I don't know what it is about me and keys but we've never been comfortable bedfellows which I suppose is handy in some ways as they can hurt when you roll on top of them but has cost me thousands of minutes over the years in searching time, not to mention cash for things like having to call out the autoshield people to retrieve them from inside the car.

Friday morning was pouring down, so I had to pick Irene up to bring her down to work. I stood in the rain, waiting for her to get her things together, then locked the car by remote control and that's the last I (or anyone else so far as I'm aware) saw of the key. It has to be in the Hotel somewhere but over the the ensuing days, I have looked everywhere, including the bins and short of pulling the place apart stone by stone, I've done everything.

Saturday was the third and final time that I have been involved through my son Terence playing hockey in the Manx Youth Games. It is a really tremendous experience, particularly the Olympic Games style opening ceremony which culminates with a mass aerobic warm up before they all disappear off to their respective sports.

My Mother-in-Law also came down to watch but there isn't any seating by the synthetic pitch, so I had what turned out to be a disastrous idea. I went over to find my athletic chums with the intention of blagging a clubhouse key and borrowing a chair as she isn't too good on her feet. Unfortunately, Allan Callow had temporarily disappeared and Bridget had given hers to the Tag Rugby people but Elizabeth Corran's was in her car in the park over by the main n.s.c. building. As instructed, I removed the only key from the compartment in between the two front seats.

Many a time, I've watched Allan struggling to use his old key in the lock, so I wasn't particularly perturbed when it didn't fit perfectly. I fiddled with it a little before eventually managing insertion but it still wouldn't turn. Then, I could get it out! Then yippee, it did start going round! ... and round... and round. The teeth had totally snapped off the spindle and were stuck fast in the eye!

Panic set in and I went back to Elizabeth. The offended key was the wrong one and the correct one was actually in the compartment between the two seats but actually at dashboard height. Well, I pushed and prodded but I couldn't budge the broken one in the slightest. My big fear was that the tag rugby crowd would turn up looking for kit they'd left in the Harriers Clubhouse.

The feeling of panic was growing, so I asked the N.S.C. staff to help me. As you can imagine, they were delighted, right in the middle of probably their busiest day of the year but I managed to persuade them that the Manx Harriers Clubhouse did have something to do with them because I thought that there was kit in there. To his credit, Colin McMullen brought out his super-duper pen knife style tool but still nothing would shift.

Okay, I'd just have to bite the bullet and call out a locksmith:

24 hour Company no.1 : Answerphone

24 hour Company No.2 : 3 locksmiths- one on holiday, two off sick.

Oh Heck! (or words to that effect!) and my poor mother-in-law still waiting for her seat!

Did you ever start something with the best intentions, then really wish you hadn't bothered?

Fortunately for me, Colin now had the bit between his teeth and brought out the heavy artillery i.e. big posh toolkit and he managed to remove the handle, though breaking it in the process. Finally, he was able to push out the broken key part and Elizabeth's correct key turned perfectly.

However, a search of the N.S.C. stores was carried out and there wasn't a spare door handle anywhere, so if anyone reading this is wondering why the Manx Harriers Clubhouse now has a shiny handle, we had to pinch the one off the storeroom door. I have told the chairman and offered to replace it.

So there was at least a happy ending to this part of the story as Irene's, Mum, Irene (and you wonder why I look perpetually confused) got her seat and a cup of tea (left the money by the till.)

The Ford Focus is left where I parked it on Friday. We have a key but it won't turn the engine over and apparently, you need two keys to program a third or you have to pay £4 million pounds to recover the car, then a further £13.6 million to put everything through the computer to create new codes and finally about £45 pound per key for every copy.

The moral of the story: If I come and ask you if I can borrow your key, punch me in the face.

I Have a Dream!

2008-05-11T23:39:00.000-07:00

I had a dream yesterday.

Firstly, I dreamt that I couldn't sleep on my day off, went to the Hotel at 0730 and took the recycling to Nobles Park where I saw Murray Lambden training.

Then I went to Andreas where only five of us had turned up last year for the Manx 20k Championship and in my dream, there were Robbie Callister, Sean Hands, Peter Kaneen, Marie Jackson, Andy Green, Vinnie Lynch, Dave Mackey, Bethany Clague, Alan Kinvig, Ian Wakely, a good scutch of juniors and the ghost of a former top international racewalker who retired ages ago.

As the race got underway, Peter pretty quickly established a lead, then after moaning for a couple of laps about his thighs hurting from his first race walking training session in nearly a year, the now talking ghost broke away from me to try and close the gap on the front man.

Behind us, were Sean Hands, a fast starting Andy Green, Robbie Callister, Vinny Lynch, Marie Jackson and Dave Mackey.

Eventually, the ghost drifted back towards me and indeed, Peter Kaneen had stopped extending his lead and gradually came nearer to us. Disappointingly, Peter stopped after 10k, it is great to have a target in front to try and reel in but the ghost and I were still locked together.

In fact, despite insisting he would definitely 'blow up' during the race and me thinking that he was trying extremely hard just to keep me company, the dream started to turn into a nightmare as the other worldly figure began to push to escape me. Although, I tried at first to stay with him, I decided to let him go and over laps 10 and 11, he managed to forge a lead of some 25m.

Fortunately, this became one of those dreams where you can influence the outcome and with Ken & Theresa(THE COMMENT) Hands cheering me on, Les Brown handing out the drinks and Jock Waddington supplying us with sponges, at the end of the penultimate lap, I started to catch the vision in front and by the back straight, I had overtaken him. Now it was a matter of concentrating, trying to relax while at the same time pushing for all I was worth, scared that he would find some of his former speed to overhaul me in the last few hundred metres. Luckily, I hung on to win a shield that had spent the last 20 years or so ensconced in various Partington attics.

Bethany Clague 9th overall won the ladies race after Marie Jackson pulled out. Andy Green really struggled in the heat but rallied to finish well after Vinny who walked a big P.B. but a minute and a half in front of Dave Mackey. Ian Wakely was next and Allan Kinvig worked very hard bringing up the rear of what was a small but high quality field.

Well I don't seem to have woken up yet but I have posted this blog in case somebody pinches me and I find out that I didn't finish ahead of Steve Partington, Sean Hands and Robbie Callister in the same race in the same day.

Thanks to Elizabeth and Gordon Corran, Judy Morrey, Allan Callow, Dougie Corkill, Paul Jackson, Les Brown, Jock Waddington and Bridget Kaneen for all their efforts on our behalf.

I think I'll dream about the Parish Walk next.

Michael George - 'Aiming for the Top' (Errr, Andreas that is!)

2008-05-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Blogathon is off!

Unless Murray is coming out of retirement or 'New Mum' makes an unannounced appearance, it looks like you're stuck with me. Richard, the 'First and Earliest Ever Entrant' used the pathetic excuse of an important international conference in Barcelona. The things people will do to get out of walking round Andreas!

That means that your participation is even more important! It would be a great shame if our intrepid team of organisers, judges, coaches, marshals and timekeeper all navigate their way over mountains, through rivers, braving wild animals (well some might have to drive past The Curraghs Wildlife Park) and fierce temperatures (warm and sunny forecast) to find that only 5 people turn up to race like last year.

If 20k isn't long enough for you, you could always walk home afterwards.

I must make a correction because on a previous post, I suggested the signing-on would start at 09:15 but it is in fact not until 09:30.

Personally, I'm not sure how I will perform. I seem to have recovered from the 50k to some extent but I still haven't tried a hard session since then and I do feel very lethargic. If Peter Kaneen is walking, then he must start favourite, though he hasn't been in his usual top form in recent weeks due to a virus of some kind. The door may be ajar for some kind of a surprise but I will need to be at my best to break through it as I have never even got within a minute on previous occasions. That having been said, despite the likely absence of Chris Cale and Jock Waddington, it is possible that someone such as Andy Green could come through and shock both of us.

So come on you Parish Walkers and anyone else out there, come up to Andreas on and make my Sunday!

Join the Blogathon

2008-05-08T06:05:00.000-07:00

I don't know if Kerry & Richard are readers of my Blog but I happened to mention that it would be a good idea if we all competed in a race together on Sunday. Mark Hempsall broke off from torturing me for a second and agreed that it would be very interesting to read about the experience from the three different perspectives.

So here's throwing down the gauntlet to my fellow scribes to join in the fun/agony for a walking 'Blogathon.'

I'm not entirely sure whether or not prams are smiled or frowned upon in races but it would give Kerry an experience of competition before the big event, provide an opportunity for Richard to rejoin the fray after a quiet few months racing wise and inform me of just where my body is up to following the rigours of my 50k race.

Remember that walkers of any age or ability are welcome and you can complete 1k, 2k, 3k, 5k, 10k or 20k.

You Need Hands

2008-05-07T23:25:00.000-07:00

I had a great chance to 'take out' one of the opposition's back up team last night. Sean's Mum & Dad were in the Welbeck restaurant to belatedly celebrate his Uncle & Auntie's 50th Wedding Anniversary, along with another uncle & auntie that I hadn't met before.

The Chef was under instruction to administer the strichnine when I had to make a last minute dash to save them. Just like Jenny of 'The Apprentice' fame, I had no qualms about using such underhand tactics but when Mrs. Hands suddenly revealed that she is an avid reader of my 'Blog,' I just had to rescue them!

Seriously, they are a lovely family and they have always given me great encouragement even when I have been in competition with Sean and I would like to add my congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Hands for passing such a milestone. Apparently, they were in an exotic part of the world for the actual date.

Sean's Mum berated me for not updating this more often as she is always checking it but unless you went on-line last night, Mrs. Hands, this is now three posts you have to catch up on!

For those younger readers, the title is an old Max Bygraves song that I think if I am not mistaken was 'covered' in the seventies by the Sex Pistols or someone.

I was nearly right it's actually Malcolm MacLaren singing on 'The Great Rock'n'Roll Swindle.' Thought I'd better get that in before the pedants attack.

Come Walk with Me.

2008-05-07T03:40:00.000-07:00

To All Walking Dudes!

Don't forget that it's the Manx 20k championships at this Sunday 10am at Andreas. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a good sustained speed session, to improve your conditioning for the big race, to blag lots of free tea and biscuits, not to mention talking up your big day prospects and asking advice or swapping tips with fellow competitors.

Entry only £3 on a good fast course, giving the people of Andreas the chance to have a good laugh at us. Go on! You know you want to give it a go!

See you at the Andreas Parish Hall (from Ramsey straight on at roundabout, from Sulby turn left.) Signing on from 9.15am.

P.S. Don't worry about the judges. They are very helpful, give lots of friendly constructive advice, plenty of prior warnings if you are a bit dodgy and you'll only get dq if you are gaining an unfair advantage by pegging it basically.

Just Say No! To Gambling that is.

2008-05-07T00:46:00.000-07:00

Hi Everybody,

Mmm. Due to a combination involving work, child and motivation, training has been sparse to say the least since my 50k.

The slight feeling that things are getting away from me has been exacerbated by the lovely weather. Oh and when I was marshalling at Kaneen's Garage Union Mills on Monday night during the Peel to Douglas race, a certain Robbie Callister turned up for a chat looking fit and tanned following his annual sojourn to Spain.

Since my 50k, I have done only two very light training sessions and played one game of football, so I am starting to panic about whether I'll be fully conditioned. As I alluded to earlier, the hotel is so busy that I'm struggling to escape and that hasn't been helping in that some of our team are taking holidays at the moment.

Many of the really big names including previous winners Peter Kaneen and Sue Biggart have finally put pen to paper or finger to keypad or whatever it is these days that you have to do. The excitement is building and the entry is growing!

My unique gambling fortunes came to the fore again this week. In an earlier post, you'll have probably have heard that I bet on the joint winner in the Sarah Killey Memorial work but ended up losing twice my stake i.e. two bottles of wine. This time a fellow Parish Walker bet me that there were only going to be about 850 entries this time around. I think I said 1100ish and he generously gave me any number down to a thousand but then texted last week to ask me to call the bet off, as it seemed he may have been wrong.

Of course, at such a polite request, how could I refuse? I don't think I'm quite getting the hang of this wagering business.

Oh well. I'll try to do some more walking today.

Fabulous Walk by Marie Jackson while Mr. Hirsuite Wows the Locals

2008-05-02T02:32:00.000-07:00

The people of Stockton and the supporters were generally very good to the racewalkers who had taken over their park and I only witnessed one instance of a competitor nearly tripping over somebody.

Some of the kids were doing impressions wiggling their hips and I eventually made great friends with one young lad whose mum it turned out worked at the Cafe, so he was there right until the end. It was a real boost to have him cheering me on and wanting high fives every lap.

There was one gang of kids who didn't seem quite so friendly but I had to laugh when one of the girls shouted, 'Ya heery bastud!' when I passed them. Perhaps I shouldn't wear a vest, showing off my great gorilla suit.

During the early to middle parts of the race, I saw Marie quite regularly and the first time I overtook her, she was down in third place but in no panic, walking with great technique. Even that first time, she wasn't far behind Cath Duhig but Maureen Noel took me quite a while to catch.

By comparison with Marie, Maureen was working very hard using a great deal of upper body strength. By the second occasion, probably about 20k into the race, Marie still looked very composed and at this stage had moved into second place. This time the contrast between them was even more marked, despite the Belgrave Harrier being now some 2 minutes clear, her breathing showed that her pace and style were taking their toll. She probably knew already but it was great to be able to report to Marie that she just had to remain patient and the race would be hers.

I think that was the last time I passed Marie because she had obviously used far more racing nous than me despite this being her 50k debut. Indeed she looked so good right until the end that it wouldn't have surprised me if she had unlapped herself by overtaking me.

She took the lead at the around the 40k mark and didn't look back, finishing in 5:37:32 and pulling some 7 minutes out on the second placed lady and now former champion, Maureen Noel.

As I informed you in the previous post, the course had a stiff little hill, so it was a measure of how brilliant Marie's victory was in that it was the 7th fastest ever by a UK walker, scoring 936 IAAF points (compared with my paltry 839.) Thanks to Cal Partington for that information and it is perhaps even more remarkable that 5 of the top ten fastest lady's times have been set by IOM racers.

Lastly, a massive thank you to Paul Jackson and Irene George who were brilliant supporting, feeding and timing us, never complaining about being there for six hours for a good part in the rain.

Will There Be Chunder?

2008-05-01T00:05:00.000-07:00

My apologies to Anon y mouse who commented on the last post but it's not always easy to find the time to start and finish a story in one sitting and I am also conscious that if it gets too long readers may lose interest. Leave you wanting more is my motto.

On the other point, which entry did you want me to expand upon? As far as I'm concerned, as I stated many months ago, I have nothing to gain by keeping secrets as almost everyone else has a very different style to me and as Robbie C. has since added, the spirit of the race really means everyone helps each other and if you want my advice for what it's worth, you're very welcome. (Did I really just write that? I'll try but I refer you back to first sentence. Time just could be an issue.)

And so I resume (though Paul Jackson's report in this week's Indie is very good. Don't rate his chances of survival highly though referring to the wife as 'The Manx Harriers veteran')

I was extremely nervous about the race but as usual that all disappeared as soon as the Mayor of Stockton blew the airhorn (like he does in every race. Only seven weeks to get used to this English language thing and I'll be a 'Blogbeen.')

Paul Evenett who in my preview I had down for second favourite stormed off into the lead, leaving Scott Davies the National Championship holder in his wake. Fortunately, none of the other competitors tried to follow him as he really didn't look in control and 50k is a long way to maintain such a style.

I didn't know the identity of the third placed man at the time but fourth was John Constandinou with me making up the top five. As John had informed me he was only hoping to walk 5:10, I wondered whether he had started quickly or whether it was me that was going too steadily. After a few laps Paul Jackson who with my wife Irene was keeping an eye on Marie and myself informed me that after about 3.5k I was about 20 seconds down on my target which was absolutely fine by me.

In the early stages of the race, I tried to keep taking on water and easy to digest carbohydrates to ensure I wouldn't run out of gas in the latter part, although the fact that they had the drinks table before the feeding station didn't really help us too much.

I gradually managed to reel in John C and think I passed him after about 7k. Apparently he always begins quite quickly which breaks with most of the advice I have ever been given but each to their own.

Even this early, I was beginning to lap people as it was quite a short course but I was catching a very brightly attired gentleman of whose identity I wasn't certain. It really is quite confusing with so many walkers going at so many different paces and I wasn't actually very definite on whether he was in front or behind me. 'Are you Glen Blythman?' was my opening gambit in conversation, which was pretty thick even by my standards as he was wearing a bright red, white and blue vest and all the Redcar club members were dressed in scarlet.

It transpired that he was Steve Arnold and that I was now up third place. The very next athletes I lapped were to inform me that this information was already outdated, as Paul Evenett had paid the ultimate price for his undisciplined early pace and had already picked up the dreaded three yellow cards by three different judges. His race had ended within 10k through disqualification.

Although my career has been fairly short, 2nd place, travelling really smoothly and just outside 18 seconds of my intended time, it really couldn't get better than this and indeed it didn't really.

At 20k, I was absolutely spot on, although between then and 30k my old groin injury had started to hurt again. After completing the third 10k, I was still feeling relatively good, only dropping 3 minutes behind my target. That included a dash from the course to the loo which was only 25m away but felt like miles.

My wheels were starting to fall off the wagon approaching the 40k mark and Ian Richards was the first person to unlap himself. The last 15k is when things really start to hurt but I was determined to keep my form (posture and technique)to avoid any comments by the judges and to ensure that I was still walking efficiently. Although the chances of me losing contact had somewhat receded with my loss of speed, in an 'A' race if you don't keep standing tall, there is a good possibility that you are not going to be landing your heel properly, thereby helping to keep the knee straight.

If you haven't paced a 50k race correctly this part of the race is hell and I'm sure many of you have experienced similar sensations during the PW. Ian Richards was quite quickly out of site, though in my favour he did seem to be working quite hard when he came past. My worry was that he would catch me and I would have a battle to keep this easily won second place and indeed Steve Arnold and Steve Crane also unlapped themselves, though the latter was still a full circuit behind. Somehow, I managed to keep going and I actually retook the two Steves but Ian was still not in vision.

By the last few laps the little hill that I had laughed at as an experienced Parish Walker had metamorphasised into the Sloc and the way I had dance up it at the beginning was a distant memory. Scott Davies had lapped me about four times and I was still slowing but I received help and encouragement from around the course, particularly from the Wears family. Irene and Paul were absolutely brilliant helping with the food and sports drinks etc. but it was a real test taking things on like crisps and having to wait a full lap for a drink.

Finally, I came to the last couple of laps out of 42.75 and I realised that not only had I slipped behind schedule but that I was now very unlikely to break 5 hours and despite some consternation from Paul who had an eye on Ian Richards, I decided to ease off to save myself for the my next big race (cannot for the life of me think what it is.)

Of course, I generally tend to back my speed against anyone I'm racing with at the finish but perhaps PJ was right to be worried because the man behind me was none other than a former Olympian albeit Moscow 1980. I did hang on by a minute though and I was so glad to cross that line for a silver medal in my first ever National Championship race in my first ever race in England.

No pewking! The technique held out and the one admonishment and one yellow card for contact from the judge on the hill didn't even make it to the Naughty Board. However, I was 37 minutes behind the winner and very disappointed not to walk 15 to 20 minutes quicker. I think that my major mistake was not to factor the 'hill' into my projected time and I really should have allowed 1 to 1.5 minutes per 10k to compensate for the extra effort.

It is one thing that I would remind everyone having a go on 21st June that no matter how easy it feels at first, you must start steadily and even if you are planning a schedule, don't be afraid to drop time , particularly if it is hot or windy. If you're battling early or late on reassess rather than struggle.

More on the ladies race and other things in the near future

Setting the Scene

2008-04-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the wishes before the trip. You see the 'comment' thingy does work after all!

After quite a rough start to our journey, the swell died down half way across the Irish Sea and we were on our way to the race with only a couple of sickbags coming into use.

Having landed in Heysham, Stockton proved very easy to get to and even after a break for lunch in Kirkby Steven, we were there in less than three hours.

The weather had really improved and we wandered around Yarm, a very pleasant village nearby in shirt sleeves, even stopping for a drink outside by the river. Sparkling water and orange juice for Marie Jackson and me while I jealously observed Paul and Irene quaffing their beer.

Marie doesn't change her diet too much but tries to eat well, on this occasion plumping for the fish and I had a nearly vegetarian pasta meal as we had our pre race dinner in a local italian restaurant.

After a fitful sleep, breakfast at nine for me consisted of cornflakes with milk and porridge with muesli and yoghurt. Apparently, porridge is a slow burning carbo-hydrate and therefore ideal before long distance walks.

The race was at eleven o'clock that morning and the rain was falling quite steadily in the lead up to the race, so we didn't want to get to the venue too early and they had arranged for the signing-on to be done at a local sports club, meaning at least we'd stay dry before the start.

It was held at Ropner Park which was originally donated to the town by a german who had settled locally. It was neglected in the past but has been beautifully restored in recent years and is a fine place to hold a racewalk.

The lap chosen was 1.17k in length which I know would drive some people crazy circulating 42 times but it meant that the feed stations came around quite quickly.

There were a couple of areas where the walking surface was a little rough and the hill that had been mentioned beforehand was a little more testing than we'd thought, it would be but surely no obstacle to seasoned Parish Walkers.

National 50k Preview

2008-04-25T02:45:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, in Stockton-on-Tees, Redcar Walking Club who have in recent years produced Beijing hopeful, Johanna Jackson and Ben Wears who recently starred over here at the Bowl in his first ever 20k race, are hosting the National 50k Road Racewalking Championship.

Although by Parish Walk standards, the entry of 31 seems paltry, it does actually represent a good improvement on recent years despite lacking the King twins who are currently No.1 and No.2 in the rankings.

In the Women's race, to my mind, favourite has to be our own Marie Jackson who has the pedigree to challenge champion, Maureen Noel and the other leading ladies if she gets it right on the day.

The current holder of the Men's title is Scott Davies who has won this event for the past three years and there is nobody in this race who would seem to be of his calibre.

Second place is very much up for grabs and with Steve Hollier not making an appearance, the leading contenders would seem to be Paul Evenett, Glen Blythman and Michael George (that's me for those slow on the uptake)

Paul came to the Island for the Manx Open in March when he didn't really have the best of days as we had a very good battle, with me holding him off quite easily as he tried to pass me on the last lap. However, since then, he has been on fire with another 20k of 97 mins and a 10k last weekend of 46:45. Although, I would expect him to beat me on Sunday, he has been disqualified and not finished in the only two 50k races I can find record of him entering, so there is still a question mark over his stamina.

Local man, Glen Blythman, I am told is expected to do very well and though his race c.v.times wouldn't suggest anything special, I believe he has targeted this race for a long time and you wouldn't bet too heavily against the Redcar Stable.

For the lower placings, Ian Richards, the amazing Arthur Thomson who is 70 years old! and John Constandinou should feature.

I'm hoping to finish in about 4:50 depending on the weather.

Wish me luck!

Just Do It!

2008-04-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I am not starting to become nervous about my forthcoming 50k race on Sunday. I've been nervous for at least three weeks already.

In fact, I'm utterly terrified. In case you didn't already know or have forgotten, in my last two long distance races, the Parish Walk and the Dutch National 50k, my challenge ended when I hit the infamous 'Wall' and finished as the PW Sky Programme demonstrates, talking like a boxer who'd become too well acquainted with Floyd Mayweather's gloves.

This time, I'm fitter and I've spent the winter working on my technique to try and ensure I waste as little energy as possible. My race results have been excellent, the training has gone well. Mr. Hempsall seems to have fixed my injuries and all that's left of the cold is a loose cough and yet.......? When you've tried your hardest and been found wanting, it's still a leap into the unknown.

I'm off the booze and I've stopped eating fat and protein. The race is planned and I have a fair idea what I'll consume on the day. It seems like months since I last broke some serious sweat and there's nothing more I can really do but go and race.

So stop being a moaning Michael, relax enjoy the event and only worry about things you can influence.

By the way, May 3rd may be National Idiot Day but Wed 23rd April was Arsey Blogger Day. Actually, it's now run into two days because if you think one comment yesterday and two over the previous five months is enough, you can get stufffed (whoops it's aberrant 'f' ing day as well!)

P.S. I don't understand hosthe times and dates work on these blog things either

How to Cheat at Athletics - Without Pharmaceutical Assistance

2008-04-22T23:34:00.000-07:00

There's an old saying that there's no short cuts in athletics but I reckon I came close to discovering it in 2006.

The Grand Plan? Run the London Marathon to get fit for the Parish Walk to STAY fit for the 100 miles and to stagger the End to End if there was anything left.

Until recently, I've never really been that keen on training and when I first drifted into the sport at the end of 2003, my idea of a schedule was to try and run myself into the ground playing football on a Monday, possibly going out for a half hour dash around the houses in my neighbourhood and entering as many races as I could.

Although I have known, Murray since our now 22 year old lads were at Ballaquayle Infants School, I didn't really know what he did in his leisure(?) time and in honesty, I fully expected to beat the old chap when I ran my first cross country around Port St. Mary Golf Course in that year.

By 2006 though, I was starting to take things a little more seriously but I still didn't do long training runs for two reasons: firstly because I used to get very sore knees and secondly because I didn't think I could find the time.

The decision to run in London and completing the Manx Marathon made me realise that I was going to have to put some real effort in and I started to join Murray's training group every Wednesday for such delights as Belmont Hill eight times, twelve repeats up past Summerhill to Port Jack and 5,6 and 8 x 1 mile at the N.S.C. As my companions in the group were all dedicated and talented runners, Nigel Armstrong, Paul Curphey, Mike Garrett and Andy Gosnell, there were times when this could be a little downheartening because it was a real struggle to keep up with them. Indeed Murray suggested that sometimes I ran less far or missed the odd repeat but I think he rather liked my reply, 'They're not going to make the Marathon any shorter for me.' and with the fillip that I had secured a Manx Harriers big race place, I gradually managed to close the gap to a respectable distance.

Things nearly came to a disappointing conclusion for me though when I ran a training marathon at the Ramsey Course on the Saturday, then 5 x 1 miles on the Wednesday and followed that up with the Island Cross Country Championships the next Sunday. My knees independently staged an immediate strike and despite cold baths, pleading and threatening their removal from the rest of my body, they refused to even comtemplate improving and I started to think that I would visit London as a spectator.

For all the years I thought I had a knee problem, I didn't really think anything could be done for them and I imagined that one day I would be reduced to a hobble. I think it was Bridget Kaneen that I have to thank for telling me that I was talking rubbish (not that she'd have said such a thing so gracelessly) and persuaded me to go and see someone.

So after a couple of weeks of inactivity, I had an appointment with an Aussie physiotherapist called Neil Sleeman who apparently practised in Sydney next door to an eminent knee specialist and within about 5 days, I was literally up and running again. As I think I mentioned in an earlier post, all that was wrong was that my I.T. band was pulling my kneecap across and causing it to grate because my quadreceps were not strong enough.

Through March, I was able to manage two more long runs, including the 20 miles that never was and therefore, arrived in London in one piece but that was the sum total of my endurance training for the entire summer. The rest was all races; much more fun and now you know, 'How to Cheat at Athletics!'

The question now is whether you at some stage would like like to hear about the rest of my summer of 2006 or whether that will just bore you all to tears? Finally, I think I have found a way of eliciting some 'comments' because if you don't post anything back to me, I shall save myself the trouble of writing it.

George Family get Up, Down and Dirty

2008-04-20T12:22:00.001-07:00

Short on time tonight and may not complete this post in one go but went for a fantastic walk today which I can thoroughly recommend for anyone who does running or walking but gets bored on the N.S.C. OR roads.

Park up in Glen Maye village. Head off down the Glen Rushen road and then fork right when you get to the 'Bayr ny Skeddyn.' Fork right again and go up towards Creg ny Crook, through the plantation and then cross the Parish Course bearing a little right and aim for Eary Cushlin. Although you are heading away from Nyarbyl press on towards Lag ny Keilley until you get very close to the Sea and then turn right following the 'Raad ny Foillan' until you reach the Cafe.

That took Terence 10y/o, Irene and me 2:12 minutes and then after a feed, Irene went to get the car in about 40 mins while we went rock climbing.

The maximum height was 250m, distance to Cafe 10k. Scenery stupendous and a great chance to work the c.v. and the muscles if not to develop technique. Do it when you can!

Broken Dream? Broken Leg More Like

2008-04-17T12:43:00.000-07:00

Because of his improvement over the last couple of years, one of the big surprises to me was that Paul Renshaw only managed a 4 hour marathon in London on Sunday.

I was worried that perhaps it was his unique tapering method that had done for him i.e. a 42.5 mile walk only seven days before the event.

He was at the presentation for the walk last night, sporting a brilliant multicoloured hair creation and I asked him if his run had not gone according to plan or was that always his intention to run at that pace.

Apparently, he was on course for three hours but the pain became too great and he had to slow down. Eventually, he limped over the line and had to visit the ambulance where he was told that he had a fracture. What's more it wasn't an injury that had only just occurred, meaning that he had done the full marathon with a broken bone!

They're tough these Ramsey lads, you know.

'Bloody Crackers They Are'

2008-04-17T12:33:00.000-07:00

Two of our regular lunchtime visitors, a couple of retired gentlemen arrived a little too early for their meal today and decided to sit and wait in their car.

'What them two fellas in black and yellow dooin' goen up'n'down the hill. They went up the one time with their hands up in the air. Some sort o' Parish Walk training is it?'

'Er, I'm not sure.'

'Bloody craackers, they are!'

'Probably.'

Take a bow Mark Hempsall, recent joint winner of the 'Seven Stations Challenge' and Dave Mackey doing repeats on Mona Drive (The Arches) as part of their hill session today.

Gambling - It's a Mug's Game

2008-04-17T00:08:00.000-07:00

How can you hedge your bets on a two horse race and end up losing twice? Read on.

Last night was the presentation for the Sarah Killey Memorial Walk and I'd love to give you a detailed report but unfortunately, the demand outstripped the size of the room at the The Cat with No Tail and I was unable to see or hear any of the details, having produced my usual party trick of arriving late (People who know me well. Don't worry. I didn't back it up with my encore of falling asleep.)

However, they did briefly adjourn outside and I was able to get the couple of snaps featured on this post.

While my reputation was on the feet of Mark (see earlier preview of race,) my money or to be more accurate my bottle of Wolfblass red wine was on Jock as I had accepted a wager with the aforementioned 'Conan the Destroyer,' of Manx walking, otherwise known as Mr. Hempsall.

I could nearly taste my first glass as I saw Mark disappear into the distance like a bat out of hell at the start and indeed I'd almost drained the bottle when despite his best efforts he'd failed to break away on the last of the hills. Metaphorically, I sat back on my sofa, lit my cigar and waited for Jock to switch into 'race walking mode' and leave 'Conan,' in his wake to plan his raid on the off-licence. And... he didn't. They were both step to step right up to the finish and to be frank, they both deserved a bottle of wine for their thrilling encounter. See below.

(Picture by Terence George)

I Was Careful What I wished For

2008-04-13T23:49:00.000-07:00

Great picture of Nigel Armstrong on Manx Athletics. He really doesn't seem to understand that you're supposed to be out on your feet and wobbling all over the place after running a 2:53 Marathon but he looks so fresh, I'm sure he could have gone on to do the two laps as according to Murray's spoof.

After at least two years knocking on the door of a sub three hour Marathon, Mark Clague has well and truly burst through with his 2:53.

I am very honoured that Nigel has agreed to help me during the Parish Walk for the third year and that Mark is also chipping in to back me up this year.

Well done also to the exotically named, Max Bezance who was the fastest man with Manx connections and all the other runners who competed yesterday.

About 3 or four weeks before Christmas, I said to Irene, my wife that I could do with getting a cold as I hadn't had one for ages. Marital relations have never quite been the same since as she went into some length about what a stupid pessimistic doom monger I was to be so idiotic as to wish that upon myself.

Finally, five months late, the aforementioned cold has arrived. My head hurts, my throat is sore, my nostrils well and truly bunged up. My ever present groin strain has also developed into a full grown pull and my right foot has problems with the tendons.

So says she, 'Are you happy now you're ill?' I grunted fairly non-committedly but for fear of her thinking I'm even more barmy than she already does, I didn't reveal the true extent of my feelings.

I'm ecstatic! The timing could not be better! I have a full 13 days left to recover before my 50k walk and it would be extremely unusual for me to contract another disease before the Parish Walk. It also means that I'm unlikely to overtrain during this taper period, so if there was a time to pick up an injury, this is it (during the last month before the race, make sure you don't work too hard so that you feel fresh for the big day.)

So, for now it's back to moaning about how rotten I feel. Time to break out another lemsip and pretend to be really miserable.

Superb Race

2008-04-10T00:54:00.000-07:00

Keeping up the theme of my last post, I really wanted to report on Sunday's race earlier in the week but failed miserably to find the time.

I was lucky enough to witness first hand a magnificent race in the Sarah Killey Memorial Walk. Driving down for the start, we could tell it was a cold morning but the really worrying aspect was that we could actually see the snow falling on Port Erin and Port St. Mary and sure enough, when we arrived at the start, the roads and pavements were covered in the 'white stuff.'

One person who didn't seem to be affected by the temperature was Mark Hempsall who set a blisteringly hot pace right from the slightly delayed start. He was followed at a little distance by Alan Cowin who was walking in his first race since 2006 Parish Walk, then Sean Hands, myself and Jock Waddington.

The speed was in excess of 6mph and it was very doubtful that Mark would be able to maintain such high cadence and so it proved when he was reeled in by the chasing pack by Castletown.

At this point in the race, Sean Hands and I moved to the front of the field in the safe knowledge that we were stopping in Peel but the action was still well poised with Mark, Jock and Alan in close company. The conditions although now mainly dry were very cold with a biting wind in our faces, making the ascent up the Ballamodha Straight very testing. At least this year, we could see where we were going as opposed to in the inaugural event when visibility was severely reduced, although balancing that advantage was the fact that you see it rising up to a height of 200m, the distance nearly as far as the horizon.

Sean seems to be making a welcome return to full fitness after a couple of quiet years and indeed I was unable to maintain his pace, blowing up completely on the Patrick Road and finishing a good five minutes behind his 2hours 47 minutes to the third station.

Marie Jackson finished strongly to overtake the lads in her last long training session before her 50k debut 27th April for which I feel she should now have great confidence.

Mark had worked hard to try to shake Jock off up the long drag into Foxdale but only succeeded in dropping Alan.

At this stage, Darren Mealin was the surprise package on his walking debut?, only a few minutes behind with Sue Biggart, followed by Alan Kinvig, Andy Green, Ian Wakely, Debbie Storry, Pete Betteridge and a host of others still in contention for the minor places.

Hempsall and Waddington continued to stretch their lead into and after Kirk Michael and by this stage Tony Okell and Marie Gilbertson were also coming to the fore.

By Ramsey, you just had the feeling that something had to give between the two main protagonists, yet despite a scare with Mark's hamstrings which turned out to be minor cramps quickly cured with Diuralite, they remained inseperable.

As expected, Sue Biggart withdrew and the running order had settled with Alan Cowin still in third, Ian Wakely fourth, Andy Green looking extremely stylish in fifth, Darren Mealin still an excellent sixth place, Tony Okell seventh with Marie Gilbertson first lady and 8th overall.

In a titanic battle between Jock's easy walking style and Mark's powerhouse performance this was the way it remained. I had expected Mark to perhaps pull away on the hill up to the Rest and Be Thankful but his electric start seemed to have taken too much out of him and eventually I was quite surprised that Jock didn't use his race walking technique to pull away over the last mile or so.

It must also be said that both men were remarkably restrained when passing two louts were heckling and waving lager under their noses at the Liverpool Arms. It came as a great relief to Dave Mackey and me that neither of us choked on our beer; a wish that Jock had fervently hoped for.

Tony Okell overhauled Darren Mealen in the closing stages and Andy Green used his style to put Ian Wakely under pressure but the former resisted, finishing two minutes ahead of the Castle Rushen School Teacher.

Congratulations to all walkers and the Fire and Rescue Service whose organisation was excellent throughout.

Keepy Uppy Bloggy

2008-04-10T00:26:00.000-07:00

According to Monday or Tuesday's Daily Mail, there is apparently a new condition afflicting a portion of the population:

Pressure to update your blog!

Certainly, I think I'm a victim of this latest mental, medical fad but there just aren't enough hours in the day. What you really need is the likes of Dave Mackey, who chimed in with a witty aside about why I hadn't blogged lately. Well listen, Pal this is number 39, compared with your measly 22 last year, so stuff you! I wonder is one of the symptoms unreasonable mood swings and aggression to innocent comments?

So on one front, I'm losing grip with reality due to the travails of being ready to compete in this year's race and on the other I have the pressure cooker of writing about it.

Oh well, most people you meet, say you'd have to be mad to walk 85 miles and therefore, on that score, I think I'm just about ready for the task.

Lets Give Sarah a Fitting Memorial

2008-04-03T23:30:00.000-07:00

Had I been less idiotic, the career for me would surely have been sports journalism. What more can a man (or lady for that matter) ask for than to travel the world watching football, cricket, rugby, athletics etc. AND getting paid for it.

So I thought I'd have a go at a preview for Sunday's Sarah Killey Memorial Walk, formerly known as Seven Stations Challenge. Apart from Peter McElroy informing the world that it's on the wrong date, it seems to have been totally ignored by the media, though I'm not certain they have all received the entry list.

The other excuse for the newspapers is that it's very difficult write about this when you don't know how far everyone intends to walk. However, using my network of contacts (as a professional journalist, I never reveal my source) I think I have a fair idea of who's going where.

Of the top walkers, I can see in the entry list, rumour has it that Sean Hands, Chris Cale, Marie Jackson, Sue Biggart are not, like me completing the full course while Ray Pitts and Dave Mackey are believed to be injured.

The two outstanding favourites in my opinion, are Mark Hempsall and Jock Waddington and what a battle it would seem to be. A true contrast of styles: Mark the ultimate 'PowerWalker,' Jock, the stylish 'Race Walker.' They had a very good dice in last year's End to End and despite some initial concerns over Mark's technique, he settled down to finish the deserved victor in the race behind Robbie. Since then, Jock has had a succession of P.B.s culminating with a blistering 5k last Thursday night when he dipped under 24 minutes for the first time (incidentally that's 6 seconds better than mine, so I might have to leg him up on Sunday.)

On the other hand, Mark hasn't raced since his second place breakthrough walk, concentrating instead on his base fitness in preparation for events such as this one.

At any distance up to 20 miles, I think Jock would emerge in front but I believe that Mark's extra fitness will triumph over his superior technique.

Behind them could be also interesting with Alan Cowin and Terry Moffatt also having excellent Parish pedigree. Andy Green and Vinny may also feature, though I'm not sure that they have enough miles on the road on this occasion.

Although I haven't spoken to Tony Okell since I noticed his Parish Walk entry, I cannot see an athlete of his calibre just making up the numbers, though I have no idea what to expect.

The Ladies race is even more difficult to predict but I anticipate Terri Salmon and Marie Gilbertson will be the main protagonists though Bethany Clague seems to be competing in every endurance race known to man at present. It will also be nice to see Maureen Cox take a well earned break (ha ha, change is as good as a rest) from judging duties.

Fingers crossed Adrian Cowin's arranged for good weather, so good luck and see you there.

Brian Goldsmith

2008-04-01T00:06:00.000-07:00

If anyone does not also read the Manx Athletics main site, they may be still unaware of the untimely passing of Brian Goldsmith. Reading the various contributions to the Forum and the Tribute Page, I realised how little I really knew Brian but as with many other people, I also felt that I had a special bond with him.

He always had a word of encouragement for me both when in my early racewalking days he was passing me and latterly when I was overtaking him. He was always keen for us to train together, particularly on Friday nights when the N.S.C.is traditionally very quiet, although we didn't quite manage to meet up quite as often as intended.

After the death of my father, he and Sandy were very friendly towards my mother at the Villa Marina dancing as she sought to rebuild her life.

One day, my son Terence had an accident in Peel and Brian and Dougie Allen helped us and nothing was too much trouble.

In his professional life, he was always available to offer any advice with V.A.T. matters which such an advantage when many civil servants make you feel somewhat intimidated.

It still seems incredible that along with many others, I saw him on Good Friday at the 10k in Port Erin and he was in fine form despite the cold weather.

I'm sure that all the walking and general athletics community will miss him greatly and hope our sympathy will offer some comfort to Sandy and his family.

Look Out Cavan, Here I Come

2008-03-21T01:33:00.000-07:00

This could be my last blog for a while. I am going on holiday for six days and therefore probably won't be able to train either (any bloggy burglars out there, we are leaving our son, Matthew behind and he's 6'2" and much wider than me.)

Panic is setting in. I know that logically six days off doesn't really affect anything in the grand scheme of things but I think that one of the by-products of Murray launching the website so early is that the anticipation seems so much greater. I've always been a 'What Pressure/stress?' kind of person but this time I feel very wound up about this year's event and I find myself worrying about the odd missed session or the fact that I'm not going long/fast enough when reason would suggest that I'm fitter and faster than I've ever been.

Certainly, a good 50k in England at the end of next month is a 'must' for my confidence. The fact that I 'blew up' in Holland so badly (my last 10k was about 74 minutes) has eroded some of my belief and it is essential that I put in a good performance at Stockton.

The other thing about this holiday is that I'm missing two races which is a minor catastrophe in itself, as the only event in April is the Sarah Killey Seven Stations Challenge on 6th which I can't complete because it is too close the 50k.

Apparently, The Fire Service are still taking entries for the aforementioned event until the week before, so get your entry in for what will be a really good warm up for the Parish. The fees go to the Fireman's Benevolent Fund, so you will be helping a good cause too. They say that you should allow one day recovery for each mile raced, so that should gives you plenty of time but also illustrates why I won't be going any further than Peel as my next race is only 21 days after.

Oh well, I'm off to pack my tin whistle and shillelagh (apologies to the Irish for the spelling.) I'm going to get it all in perspective during my break and return relaxed and ready for the fray (I hope)

P.S. I wonder if they've any races on in Ireland next week?

Race Walking: The Best Cure for Constipation

2008-03-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

I was pretty stiff after last week's 20 miles, so my pathetic attempts to play football on Monday were even more laughable than usual. It took nearly 50 minutes before I could run at all and felt every one of my 42 years and more.

During junior training, I helped out with the little dude beginners and they were just about the right pace for me.

Tuesday, I skived work to begin my wife's training for the Sarah Killey Seven Stations Challenge. I know she's left it a little late but she was a finisher with no training at all last year which was very impressive.

For these jaunts I usually get to pick the route and then pass it for approval to Mrs. George. I measured it on the map to be about 10k, so therefore the fact that we started late (about 1 o'clock) and after lunch at Nyarbyl didn't really matter and at least the rain had cleared.

We walked south to Glen Maye and then off road across to Rushen Mines. It is particularly beautiful and the fact that Spring hasn't really kicked off yet means that you are able to see everywhere that the trees would normally hide.

My son, Terence had an appointment at the dentist, so we had to be back to pick him up from school at 3:30pm which was no problem bearing in mind that we only had to walk 10k or so. Except somebody's calculations appear to have been a little inaccurate and we were only hitting the main road at about 2:40 and the wind was in our faces and strengthening. Bearing in mind, I was still as stiff as a crutch, I took the decision to run and to abandon Irene on the storm blown mountain top which didn't go down too well at the time.

Well, I've walked quicker and it was very frustrating to be able to see the car park at the cafe and have to go all the way around to Dalby but I finally managed to get there at 3 o'clock, picked up the Irene and despite all the panic, arrived at the dentist with two minutes to spare. I stopped my Garmin at nine miles but I haven't quite worked out what went wrong with my map reading yet. Maybe I measured the Bayr ny Skeddyn instead?

Wednesday, I started a steady walk at the N.S.C. but was lacking a little in motivation. Miriam Kelly asked if I wanted to join their running group and I ended up enjoying the walk around Kewaigue.

Thursday, following the recommendation of Allan Callow, I did a pace session but without goals. It sounded really easy 1&1/2 minutes fast, 1 minute stroll, 2 minutes fast, one minute stroll, 2&1/2 fast, stroll and back down again for 40 minutes. It nearly killed me! I was wrecked.

Rest day Friday.

Saturday, I was up at 06:30am, went to the toilet, had banana sandwich, washed up after previous night's excesses and out by 07:00. A perfect start to the day (I often struggle to make my target start times on Saturday mornings,) except that by the time I reached Tromode it became obvious that I hadn't quite stayed long enough in the loo. Plan B was put into place and I decided to head for the hospital. Oh dear! Half way up Ballafletcher road I had to dive over the hedge. It wasn't a high hedge. Luckily a double decker bus didn't come past and my modesty was preserved but it was a bit of a close run thing. Once again, I messed up with my distance and timing and I ended up having to run from Union Mills to N.S.C. to join up with Marie Jackson.

Either Marie is on top form or I still hadn't quite recovered from Saturday but I really struggled to keep up. It's also probably a little daft of me not to be practising with gels, drinks and other foods. In 2 hours and 37 minutes, I covered 14 miles which isn't brilliant when you consider I did 20 in only 20 minutes longer the previous week.

And Sunday was another day of rest.

Here's Hoping The Preacher Doesn't Fall Off His High Horse

2008-03-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

As I've said before, though my main goal is the Parish Walk for this year, I intend to do as many races as I possibly can, as long as they don't interfere with my training for the 'Big Race.'

In fact for the 10k championships and the recent Manx Open 20k, I did actually put the PW work 'on hold.'

In my humble opinion, with the possible exception of one or two of the front runners who perhaps want to keep their form and fitness to themselves, I would advocate more of you that don't usually take part in the shorter distance walks or even the runs, should have a go.

For one thing they're great training and though it is important to make sure you've done enough endurance sessions, it is also essential to improve your conditioning by walking fast and running or some kind of aerobic exercise if you are hoping to get the best from your body.

It is also enjoyable to meet and talk to people, many of whom you'll be competing with and beside come June. Who knows you may even pick up a tip or two.

Last night, while sitting on the sofa watching television, my back began to itch. Trying to relieve myself of this distraction, I tried to rub against the material of the couch and believe it or not managed to hurt a muscle. If the Parish Walk had been today, I probably wouldn't have started.

So, really that's the main reason for not sticking all your eggs in the Parish basket. By all means be focused. Let it set all the parameters for your programme. But remember anything can happen between now and then, as well as during the event, so make sure you have plenty of other things going on.

Of course, if you don't want to enter any of these other events, remember that many of the athletic community that make the Parish Walk possible, also compete in and organise them. Therefore, you could put a little back in yourself by becoming a volunteer. You'll be in good company as the likes of Sean Hands, Robbie Callister and Jock Waddington to name just a few are all regular contributors.

I'm sure that Paul Jackson would love to hear from anyone who has any free time over Easter as he is still short of marshals and other helpers. You can contact him on paul.jackson@manx.net or call him on 487873.

It would be fantastic if I could now get down from this pulpit without breaking my leg.

Sermon endeth.

Chief Dan George? Nowhere! But Michael beats the Weather by a Short Head

2008-03-13T11:23:00.000-07:00

Howling wind, driving rain. Yeuch! How are we supposed to go training in this?

Suffering from an extreme motivational breakdown, brought about partially by copping a soaking this afternoon trying to compress the Welbeck rubbish into the wheelie bins, I struggled to even contemplate going out this afternoon.

During such moments, it's often a good idea to try and muster some company. And that's probably the worst thing I could have done! My phonecall found my team mate ensconced in the Pub, claiming injury but very obviously enjoying the Cheltenham Festival and probably a pint or two.

Thoughts of going down to join him were high on the agenda but as I'm going away Easter Monday, for a week's holiday, I really can't afford to miss any training at the moment.

Miraculously, my dark ruminations seemed to have the opposite effect on the weather and from the most miserable of days, suddenly there was sunshine! My legs were still heavy from Sunday but having had three days strolling to recovery, finally I regained a little speed.

Talking of Cheltenham, I toyed with the idea of putting a couple of quid on 'Chief Dan George' this morning but having checked the results, I'm glad I kept my money in my pocket.

Improving Our Circulation by 40 Times

2008-03-11T03:28:00.000-07:00

After last week's minor injury scare, I very much doubted that I'd be up for the Leinster twenty mile running race held at the N.S.C. on Sunday.

However, the combining miracles of frozen peas and the human body contrived to get me to the starting line.

What was I doing competing in such a race? Well contrary to rumours that I was just entering to wind up certain a certain individual who don't seem to like walkers 'cheating' by doing the runs, it was the perfect distance for me as a prelude to the National 50k race in Stockton on 27 April which is my main goal at the moment.

I suppose that pressure is only what you make it yourself but it was actually quite relaxing, knowing that I was to be the only walker in the race and although I did have anything 'sub 3 hours' at the back of my mind, it really was case of getting the miles in on my feet in a race situation.

The number of times I am reiterating this point is probably becoming boring now but although many athletes abhor the N.S.C. perimeter track for its lack of interest, to me it's brilliant because you are easily able to monitor your pace and it would have been very silly of me to race after the faster runners in the early stages.

Luckily for me, I had a long battle with Alan Pilling (who really does give truth to the 'more races than hot dinners' saying) and looking today at my 'Garmin' sports watch we really set consistant lap times.

The other bonus of circulating around 'The Bowl' is that you see the other competitors on a regular basis and you are able to almost 'spectate' on the sharp end of the battle. Not that anyone was coming anywhere near Nigel Armstrong who was clearly in a class of his own despite running a 2:50 marathon less than a month ago.

To achieve three hours, you have to lap in 4 minutes thirty seconds or to put it another way do 9 minute miles and my plan was to do this for the first two hours and then see what I had left. Although I tried to accelerate for the last 10k, the question was answered quite simply by 'Not a lot' and I was unable to maintain the extra speed, though I didn't quite ruin my race by not being able to hang on in at my earlier pace.

The last few laps is certainly a slog in such a race but it was mentally easier for me because by this stage I was catching a few runners and even unlapping myself on occasion.

My final time was 2:57:59 (so much better than 2:58) and I finished with a last lap of nearly 14km/h to complete the 20 miles in 20th place out of 34 starters and 30 finishers.

As I mentioned on the the Forum, the real heroes of these events are the organisers, lap scorers, timekeepers, feeding table operatives (how's that for a bullshit title but I couldn't think of another) and Brenda Charlton who I think made me about 15 cups of tea. In fact Brenda, Sean Hands, Bridget Kaneen, Judy Morrey and Marie Jackson(sorry if I've missed somebody out) deserve special mention as that was their second weekend on the trot.

Kerry joins the Webload of Bloggers

2008-03-07T10:05:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Kerry, this year's fourth and first ever lady addition to www.parishwalk.com blog team. By the way what is the collective noun for bloggers? Answers in 'comments' please.

It didn't take you very long to work out what a load of self obsessed, vain bunch of dayglo lycra clad geeks a most of us are did it?

In all seriousness though, one of the great things about walking is that you really don't need much in the way of expensive clothing and equipment and per mile, it must really be one of the cheapest activities you can indulge yourself in.

A t-shirt, pair of shorts, socks, trainers, bumbag, waterproof jacket for the wet days, a couple of globs of vaseline and away you go. The high visibility vest is optional but it does slightly reduce the risk of being mown down by half sighted, three quarter asleep mad manx drivers.

It is worth spending a little dosh on your feet but my first finish was in a cheap pair of pumas and I didn't get a blister until Andreas. Yes, you can buy GPS watches, grow super epidermal 'Skins,' but it'll not really take you any further any faster and there's no better way to see the Manx sea and landscape.

Who knows, after you giving your first training secret away, we may soon see Robbie Callister and Sean Hands out pushing prams. I reckon that has to be a great idea for improving hip mobility and it won't look quite so daft as me walking along with my hands on my head.

Anyway, good luck and the main thing is to enjoy it.

Hamstrung by Paranoia

2008-03-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

Well, the euphoria's died down but unfortunately, some of the pain hasn't. I played football for 70 minutes and then did 5 x 300m on Monday hoping that that it would ease my hamstrings.

They were still pretty sore on Tuesday when I went to see Sports Therapist, Masseur, ex-blogger, long distance walk rival and team mate for PW 2008 (IF HE EVER GETS HIS BLOODY ENTRY IN), Mark Hempsall.

He diagnosed pretty quickly that I had damaged part of my hamstring that joins the tendon above my left knee. When I went in there I couldn't feel the difference between my legs but today it is evident that the left is worse that the right, so hats off to the professional.

To make matters worse, he has grounded me for at least a couple of days to prevent it becoming a proper injury and although this probably will have no effect in the grand scheme of things, it's very frustrating.

Then today, I received an e-mail from Richie Sille, the fellrunner reporting amongst other things that he's seeing Robbie Callister about training all the time. Add this to Sean Hands seeming so enthusiastic about things on Saturday and Peter Kaneen weighing up whether to enter or not and my little muscle tear has grown and is now approaching full blown paranoia.

There may be people who would wonder why I would let Mark treat me as he is going to be competing against me but even though I do trust him, now I've told all you lot, he wouldn't dare risk his reputation!

A Walk in the Park (King George V One that is)

2008-03-02T02:14:00.000-08:00

Owwww! Today everything is sore apart from my memories of yesterday.

As you may be aware, it was the Manx Harriers Open Walks and 10k run.

There were some excellent performances by the juniors in the earlier races see www.manxharriers.com later for the results, followed by a less well supported 10k walk which nevertheless was well won by the superb Andy Green who also picked up the club award for the best newcomer later in the day.

The 20k race which had earlier looked a little thin on the ground, especially following the non arrival of Lisa Kehler, was supplemented by a switch by a good few of the Irish walkers and most notably, Ben Wears from 5 and 10k.

20k walking has one big similarity to the Parish Walk in that at the start it is very easy to go too quickly as the pace seems incredibly slow. Be very careful come race day because an incautious beginning can ruin your chances for the entire race.

My goal yesterday was to break 100 minutes, so if you are attempting this, there is no better place in the world than N.S.C. because all you have to do is 25 laps at 4 minutes. Therefore, I was spared the trouble of washing all the ink off my arms after the race as even with my mathematics, I didn't have to write down the times.

Although there were none of the really top names from British and Irish walking, there was a decent quality field and for once, I didn't spend the entire race between Peter Kaneen and the rest of the field. The company was much appreciated.

I settled into a group of four competitors which included two of the Irish lads and Paul Evenett who is ranked 6th in the U.K. for 20k. Luckily they were going at just the speed I needed to and I wasn't sucked into a battle which was too fast for my own good. Slightly confusingly though the Irish walkers dropped out at 5 and 10k but I suppose they had acted as perfect pacemakers for me as I think my splits were 24:55and 50:11.

As I remarked previously, the early stages are quite painless but from 10k, you really start to hurt. At this stage, I seemed to pull away from Paul who was attracting a couple of comments from the judges and I thought that once again, I was in for a lonely trudge to the finish.

Although the perimeter track has its detractors and I can see their point if they are easily bored, another of its great assets is that you almost always have someone to chase or somebody passing you which is an advantage in the middle stages of a race when you can start to lose concentration.

One more thing that helped me is that I seemed to have a coach on every corner and as your body tires, you sometimes need to be reminded to keep everything together. The Irish coach, Michael Lane also gives great encouragement, as did the rest of their supporters.

Coming on to the last half lap, I was overtaken again and I thought I was being lapped until my something at the back on my somnolent brain reminded me that I couldn't be lapped because this was my last one. Paul Evenett who I thought I'd left a long way back in my wake had just breezed past me. Summoning up one last effort, I gathered what was left of my strength and was able to muster and maintain a sprint for the line, though I was shocked to see later that I'd only prevailed by three seconds.

If anyone can actually tell me what happened, I would be very grateful because everyone I've spoken to watching told me that he was always right behind me but I didn't see or hear him and he doesn't seem to be next to me in any of the photographs. I'm confused and I wasn't able to ask hm last night as he didn't attend the excellent buffet and social night at the Ascot Hotel.

Initially, I was a little disappointed not to have cracked the 100 minutes but it was three minutes better than I'd ever walked previously and I reckoned that the wind was worth at least 2 seconds a lap (see always an excuse) so it didn't take long for me to appreciate the fact that it was probably my best ever walk.

Someone said that my performance was the best of the day but I'd have to disagree because Ben Wears walked an incredible time on his first 20k. Congratulations also to David Kidd the winner. There were also top walks from Jock Waddington and Chris Cale especially who managed a really big P.B.

I lap scored during the excellent 10k running race which was won by Gianni Epifani from Ben Scott and Mike Garrett.

Thanks to all the judges and to Bridget and her team from Manx Harriers who made it a great day, not to forget all the visiting walkers who make this event so special.

No Comment

2008-02-26T03:30:00.000-08:00

Luckily, my fellow blogger (well he used to be but we haven't heard from Richard for a while. I hope he didn't ski or snowboard over the edge of a cliff) set up a 'stat counter' for me, so I do know that there are a good few of you who do read this rubbish on a regular basis but I was finding it quite frustrating that I'm not really getting any feedback.

Finally, I have discovered the reason why not one single comment has been left on my blog. It's next to impossible! Using hitherto undiscovered internet skills, I actually found the 'settings' 'tab' and after a brief journey into the wrong part of cyberspace, I found a 'tab' remarkably labelled, 'Comments.'

I don't remember ticking a box saying that people must have one leg and be able to recite the Russian alphabet backwards to be able to tell me what tripe I'm writing but it does seem that, that's what you had to do.

No longer. You are now free to insult me anonymously if that's what you care to do! So go on, tell me what you think, that you haven't a clue what I'm rambling on about, that you'll leave me trailing in your wake come June 21st or just ask a simple question.

Ahem. Did someone say be careful what you wish for?

P.S. That comment on the last posting was mine.

Following Johanna's Footsteps (I hope)

2008-02-25T02:08:00.000-08:00

Wow! I don't know how many of you have followed the U-Tube link to watch Johanna Jackson's performance in Australia but to knock so much off her P.B. is awesome and I'm hoping going to be my inspiration to dip under 100 minutes for the first time.

She stayed at the Welbeck last year with her sister and parents, so I was lucky enough to have ferried them around and talk to them a fair amount. She really has improved beyond recognition since then and she lapped me at least twice as it was. Johanna knocked nearly six minutes off her time in Douglas which was her then P.B.

Saturday's H.S.B.C. Security Services Manx Open meeting with due respect to the Manx Mountain Marathon, the Marathon proper and the Easter Festival is probably the premier athletics event to be held on the Island most years as it is the only one which regularly attracts top international competitors.

Although we are a little short of first class males in the 20k so far (the Irish Team has yet to be announced,) the former British record holder, Lisa Kehler and former Commonwealth Games contender Niobe Menendes have both entered. U.K. No.1 junior, Ben Wears is walking in the 10k and of course our own Lauren Whelan will be battling against the best of the young Ireland entrants.

It's disappointing that more of our local walkers haven't entered. It would seem that some are intimidated by having such a high quality field but even on my debut in 2005 when I finished in a ripping 2:15:32 nobody laughed at me (not to my face anyway) and everyone was friendly at the social event afterwards.

It's a shame Robbie Callister doesn't enter any more because I reckon I could beat him at this distance. So far, I've never beaten him in any walking race, although my claim to fame (I'll be telling this one until I'm a great grandfather,) is that I overtook him in the the 2004 Syd Quirk Half Marathon run. Such are the tales of an athletic journeyman.

Not so Kaneen on being complacent

2008-02-22T10:28:00.000-08:00

I did actually go in and work for a few hours on Monday but it is also the day when a mainly ageing crew mainly from Hotels and Restaurants like to go to the N.S.C., mainly to pretend that we are still able to play football.

It's like the league of nations with Italians, Poles, Swiss, Chinese, English, Maltesers and on occasion with the odd sprinkling of Manxies all convening to see how many languages they can swear in. Over the years we've had Greeks, Tunisians, French and many others I've probably forgotten.

Always being an enthusiast has been my greatest strength in football, never quite having had the skill, presence of mind nor explosion of pace to be a decent player. My fitness , a small ability to time a tackle, concentration enough to get some part of my anatomy to connect with the ball, though not always the sweet spot of my boot or forehead and not to be frightened to go in where it hurts has always just about kept me from being a total liability to any team I've played for.

After 10 minutes of attempting to play, following my morning walk of 18 miles, it seemed I was bereft of even my usual thinly spread assets and I really was beginning to wonder quite what I was doing there. However, I kept plugging away and eventually I did get slightly better.

Following the soccer, I used the junior's racewalking training warm up to warm down, reckoning I'd done enough for one day.

On Tuesday, I was quite sore but I think the football had taken off the worst of it by loosening off my muscles. Even so, I only did half an hour's recovery and the following day I just did a steady hour in preparation for my big pace session on Thursday.

There are times when I start to think I'm getting quite good at this walking lark and get a little bit cocky in terms of how I see my own ability. The best way to knock any kind of complacency out of myself, I found the other night is to train with Peter Kaneen. Once again, I was looking to do 7 x 1km at 4:45 and I had already done my first two reps before he showed up (he was only scheduling 5 x 1k and I knew I wouldn't carry on if we started together) and in true athlete style, I was blaming the wind for my very slow 5:06 and 5:02. With Peter to drag me round, the next ones took 4:35, 4:46 and 4:39 and I think he was at least 20 seconds in front of me on all of them. Attempting to stay within shouting distance on my 6th rep, I really blew up and struggled home to a 4:59 and having lost my form, I decided enough was enough and quit while I could still stand up.

Parish Walk Training goes off The Road

2008-02-22T08:43:00.000-08:00

Like most things in life, being your own boss has many sides and while you may occasionally hear me bemoaning missed training sessions and cancelled evenings out, last Monday certainly showed how rewarding it can be.

Taking advantage of a quiet Monday morning at work, I had scheduled an 18 mile walk with Mark Hempsall and with the weather as fantastic as it was, I suggested something a little different.

The morning frost hadn't even begun to thaw as we set off from Vicarage Park towards the N.S.C., me like a cross channel swimmer after my lack of lubricant on Sunday, we then cut through the Nunnery grounds out onto the Kewaigue Road and up Douglas Head.

Despite my usual trouble with Reynard's syndrome (I lose the blood supply to my fingers even in quite mild weather,) the sun was heralding a truly glorious day and there are few more beautiful places to be than Marine Drive.

For those of you who have never walked up there, it is on the east coast of the Island, chiselled out of the the sea cliffs with undulations that make it a great test for walking, running and cycling.

Depending on your point of view, the fact that part of the roadway collapsed during the seventies, causing the closure of the route to vehicles halfway along has made it one of the best traffic free zones on the I.O.M. and ruined the possibility of anyone ever making a go of the pub/restaurant facility at Port Soderick (though I personally think that if the right people owned and ran it with the right financial package they'd carry it off.)

After the descent towards the bay, we headed inland, past the Railway Station and laboured up the steep hill back to Old Castletown Road. The ascent up by Crogga is also hard work and by this time, we were grateful for the cool air preventing us from overheating.
Following the Raad-ny-Foillan (road of the gull,) we then turned off towards Meary Veg and eventually ran out of tarmac as we neared the sea once more. Although not quite as spectacular as the sheer drops on the Marine Drive this too, is a very pretty place to walk. Unfortunately, racewalking is not really an option on such rough terrain and I had to resort to a jog behind Mark who is really powerful. Indeed I haven't decided yet which technique to use for the hills during the race.
Many people recommend not to expend too much energy and have suggested that I walk normally as I did last year while climbing the Sloc and Cleaynagh Road but I did lose heaps of time while Robbie Callister and Ray Pitts were able to use their much practised action. In fact I didn't use racewalking(uphill) until I was desperately and unsuccessfully trying to catch Ray on the East Coast.

There were areas where the path was more of an obstacle course and we had to negotiate overgrown gorse and fallen trees.

Despite all the dry weather we have had recently, it was still extremely muddy in places underfoot, especially around the river in the Ballasalla area. My foot actually 'plugged' at one stage and I now have a slightly pulled muscle where I tried to lift my leg but it was sucked down.

There was a ewe blocking one of the styles and despite our efforts to persuade her to move, she was going nowhere. We had to climb over her which worried us immensely, as sheep are normally extremely timid. After crossing farmland towards the Airport, we popped into the office at Kniveton's to ask them to ring the farmer as we were sure she was pregnant. We would have asked, Ray Cox, Race Director to join us had we known because it shouldn't happen to a 'Vet,' nor a Parish Walker for that matter.

We then crossd under the proposed new runway and wondered what provision has been made for the path when it is constructed. Anyone out there know?

Finally, we once again regained the road and I found it releasing to be able to use my technique once more, though poor Mark was knackered having taken the harder option by continuing his usual cadence.

The plan had been to go and have a look at Mr. Clarkson's house to see what all the fuss was about but our intrepid explorers unfortunately advised by yours truly took the wrong fork and ended up on Fort Island instead.

We headed back along the seashore, then when we passed our 18 miles, we jogged and cut through King Williams College grounds to catch the bus on the main road.

As far as I can remember, that was my first time on that soil since June 1981 when I ran down the Drive, aged 15, having completed my last 'O' Level .

I can thoroughly recommend doing a similar training session or even the very same as it can become a little boring at times, plodding along the roads and not always very pleasant with the volume of traffic on the Manx roads these days. All in all, I think we did about 10 miles off tarmac and 8 on.

A Week in the Life of a Parish Walk Hopeful

2008-02-17T02:19:00.000-08:00

I thought that for this post, I'd detail my training for one week, though I don't really do typical. I find that it is hard to keep to a routine because of work and family commitments but last week was also affected because of the 10k race the previous Sunday.

As I had had to dash to work straight after the WWL presentation, I took Monday off work and as it was half term I decided to use it as a rest day. Nothing to do with the hamstrings, honest.

On Tuesday, I found myself with a spare hour before training (17:45 at Manx Harriers Clubhouse if anyone's interested) and therefore decided to do a recovery walk around Kewaigue, trying to average about 6mph. I bumped into Michael Shipsides who was walking his dogs on this occasion but is working hard on his Parish form. I'm sure most of you have seen him out and about with his very distinctive style. I did nearly four miles including a detour out to Battery Pier and then returned to join up with Allan Callow's group. This included Sue Biggart, Chris Cale, Andy & James Green and top juniors Karen Renecle and Lauren Whelan.

The cyclists have taken over the N.S.C. for the summer (ha ha it was bloody freezing,) so we went doing strideouts (involves accelerating from very slow to as fast as you can, whilst ensuring that you maintain good body form and technique) along the walkway by the swimming pool.

Wednesday, I ran out of time and didn't get out at all. Thursday, I was on a pace session which was supposed to be 7 x 1km at 4min45secs. This is interval training, where between each kilometre, you either rest or stroll until you recover your breath. As the weather was so cold, I strolled 200m, so my aged muscles wouldn't seize.

However, I was unable to go at the required speed on any of the reps except inexplicably on my 4th. I categorically deny that this was because I had a rather nice looking lady runner to chase.

Friday, I managed a steady hour around Douglas and the promenade before heading off (in the car by the way) to Ramsey where Irene and I were staying overnight for our wedding anniversary.

We had a good meal in Harbour Lights and then asked some locals at the next table where 'the action' was of an evening. They recommended Royal George which seemed quite appropriate and off we toddled.

Last year, we resided at the Glen Helen and following our meal, took a taxi into St. Johns. There was a 'bring along an instrument folk evening on' and we got talking to a violinist called Katie (whom I knew vaguely through athletics) and her parents.

We walked through the door of the Pub in Ramsey, exactly 12 months later and there was Katie playing in a 'Folk/Rock' band! We also just happened to sit down next to her parents. Life is much stranger than fiction.

Saturday involved a relaxed meander around North Shore Promenade, across the Swing bridge, around the Town and back through the park. It's probably not very relevant athletically speaking but I suppose it did help to loosen the muscles.

Sunday, I circulated Marine Drive on another glorious, though extremely cold morning, managing to average about 6.5 miles an hour for 10 miles, starting steadily but building up to work up a fair head of steam on my way home. But what a wally! Despite being surrounded in our house by pots of vaseline, I forgot to wear any under my arms and spent the rest of the day wandering around like a reject from 'Planet of the Apes.'

As a week, it wasn't really over hard and I probably didn't quite fit in as much distance as I would have preferred with two hours being my longest session.

Thrilling Marathon Championship? Jog around the Countryside really.

2008-02-13T12:02:00.000-08:00

In 2005, I was in Mr. Never Again mode. Although I didn't train to race walk, I had managed to break the hour for 10k on April 3rd in a Winter League race but I still really didn't see the Parish as a race I'd ever really contend. As I'd finished in 2004, this year I was just going to walk to Peel with Irene, enjoy the day and hopefully, watch Robbie break the record at the finish.

To my mind(obviously I knew even less then than I do now,) Sean Hands would never beat Robbie Callister and it was a near certainty the best ever time would be set that day.

Everything went pretty much as expected and we even managed to walk down to see him just miss out once again, with Sean not too far behind giving a hint of things to come.

In August 2005, I ran a Marathon for the first time with two laps of the circuit around Ramsey. I had no conception of whether I would last the distance or what it would be like and the only plan I had was just not to try and go off too fast. Steve Partington obviously didn't have too much faith in my athletic prowess because as I passed him and Peter Kaneen (they were in serious training to try and be selected for the Commowealth games 50k, I believe at the time,) I heard him say words to the effect of "There's one we'll be catching later."

I got myself into a nice rhythm and started gradually to chip away at the runners in front of me who seemingly had begun a little quickly. After Bride Hill, on the second lap, I managed to catch a tall chap wearing a bandana and went past him quite easily. However, this seemed to galvanise him and he in turn caught me and we spent the next few miles chattering away.

It's really one of the great things about long distance events. They can be very social occasions when friendships can be formed. Unlike many situations in normal life, if the topic or the person doesn't interest you, you can speed up or slow down to bring the conversation to a close without appearing rude.

He turned out to be Ben Scott whom I knew by reputation but had never met. Soon, we drew alongside another gentleman, a certain Dave Young, known to most as 'Doc' for some unimaginable reason and it became a three way talking shop.

In the press, John Watterson described it as 'An exciting triumvirate battle for the lead' but I honestly had no idea that we were all neck and neck in the Manx Marathon Championship rather than just out for a pleasant jog around the Northern Plains.

On the interminable Burma Road, we passed my wife, Irene who was doing the 1/2 marathon walk and also finally dropped Dave Young. Still unaware that we were really in a race, I managed to stay with Ben until the 25 mile marker when my lack of training finally told and I hit 'The Wall.' Mind you it might have been the flat, warm coke mixed with orange juice that he gave me that really did me in. Don't try it. It's disgusting!

I was quite proud to finish in around 9th place overall and 2nd 'Manxie' in about 3:14 something and I collapsed into a heap on the Ramsey AFC pitch and stiffened in the beautiful August sunshine. There was a great photograph taken of Ben Scott, Dave Young and me which the Doc has apparently had blown up and hung in his surgery. So if you've ever been unlucky enough to be ill and had to visit him, you'll probably have seen my ugly mug grinning down at you.

Organising any race is a massive undertaking, particularly the long road events and so if there are ever any mistakes made, the organisers have my sympathy. I have to say it is horrible when it happens to you though. Some friends that had been staying at the Hotel and our kids had turned up to see Irene and me at the finish. The 'Awards Ceremony,' always takes quite a while to set in place (certainly a justification for the way they do them at the Parish and EtoE) and therefore, to help hurry things up a bit, I went and stood right next to the table, so my limping slowly to receive my prize wouldn't hold up proceedings. They called out the all finishers but somehow missed me off and gave second place to Doc Young, leaving me up there like a bridegroom left at the altar.

Worse things have happened at sea but it was rather embarassing at the time. The Marathon had given me a taste for the long distance races and so after walking the End to End with Irene (her first full finish,) I decided that in 2006, I was really going for it.

Back to 2008 and you have to feel sympathetic towards the £100 million red noses. Well I'm trying to anyway. Perhaps when I stop laughing.

Not as Good as I thought I was

2008-02-11T10:47:00.000-08:00

After some seriously wacky posts which not everyone seemed to understand (don't worry; you have to be fairly deranged to plug into my humour,*) this weekend, it was back to some serious race walking.

On Sunday was the H.S.B.C. I.O.M. 10k Roadwalking Championship combined with the last round of the Winter Walking League. After a 2 & 3/4 hour jaunt around the old Boundary Stroll course at an easy 5.5 miles per hour average on Monday with Mark Hempsall and David Mackey, my only other preparation was a 3 x 1 mile (two laps of the N.S.C. for each rep) on Wednesday when I really couldn't quite judge the pace correctly and my times were wildly varied but I did manage to average 7 minutes 40 per lap which was my target speed.

So, by the weekend, everything including the Manx weather for once was perfect and I had no excuses for not achieving my aim which was anything sub 48 minutes.

Peter Kaneen, according to the man himself had not quite been in his usual form and I even harboured vague ambitions of keeping up with him for a while if he was hanging around.

Indeed, I wasn't too far behind him for the opening lap and a half and I was bang on where I needed to be on the clock but then inexplicably, I lost 10 seconds on the next one and try as I might, I could never regain the necessary momentum.

By the time I hit 5k (thanks to Dave Griffiths for shouting out the split times,) I had dug in but at 24:21, I was still off the pace but try as I might, I was unable to accelerate and recorded 22:11 for the second half of the race to finish 1:06behind Mr K. at 48:32. That is still a personal best by 37 seconds but I really thought that with all my extra training and with tapering for the race that I would have been faster. I half expected that I'd tire, trying to do 3:50 laps and perhaps fade towards the end but to not be able to keep up right from the off surprised me.

Obviously, I am not so good as I thought I was!

Well done to Peter, to Jock Waddington in 3rd place who also set another P.B. and Lauren Whelan for picking up her first Senior Lady's title. Also congratulations to June Melvin who won the 10k league and all the other category winners who I was going to list but I can't find the results and am too 'chicken' to give you them from memory for fear of repercussions or concussions.

It was good to see Judy Morrey, Bernie Shimell and Steve Taylor receiving awards for all their hard work over the winter but it would have been even better if Bridget Kaneen, Elizabeth Corran & Allan Callow had also been rewarded for their efforts. However, they'll have to make do with my thanks on behalf of you all as I'm too tight to buy them anything.

That's all for now and I hope to see as many of you as possible at the H.S.B.C. Manx Harriers Open Meeting 1st March whether you be racing (go on get your entry in,) spectating or helping out (Speak to Bridget Kaneen.)

*For those of you not in my solar system and Mark Hempsall who is but still didn't get it, I helped my daughter Lucy with her IOM Courier round and I realised that some may think I'd invented a new training routine if they saw me.

I Blame the Press

2008-02-07T12:42:00.000-08:00

Did you know that John Profumo was not given the boot because of his affair with Christine Keeler but because he lied in Parliament about it.

Well, after my promise to you only yesterday, it looks like I too have been caught out. Now, I'm not blaming Andrew Titley (more of him in a later blog,) it could have been anyone who exposed me to the press but it seemed strange to me that I met him today just before I was caught doing my latest covert training technique by the papparazzi.

In fear that I will be in Sunday's News of the World, sports paper L'Equipe or even heaven forbid, Monday's Examiner, I have decided to confess to you and throw myself upon your mercy. I own up. No more secrets, I promise.

Look out! Here comes 'Statto!'

2008-02-07T00:17:00.000-08:00

From now on in my posts you are going to be bombarded with statistics. Average heart rates, miles to the nearest yard, max and minimum speeds, how far I climbed, how many seconds I beat my last time by.

Why is is this blog about to become so boring? I've just become a 'Garmin Geek.' Yesterday evening, I took possession of my Forerunner 305 GPS satellite training watch which is the sportsman's equivalent of 'Big Brother.'

There again, you may be reprieved because I haven't learned how to use it yet. If it doesn't start making me a cup of tea in the morning within a week, I'll probably throw it through the window.

Do you promise not to laugh?

2008-02-06T10:07:00.000-08:00

Firstly, well done to everyone who ran, supported or officiated the the Cross Country the other day and well done to all the winners who included my son Terence (u11.)

At some stage, I suppose there is a decision to be made about what I should or should not write in my blog. Two reasons spring to mind:

a, being that too much detail of my race plan and training might give my competitors an advantage.

b, being that if I inform all you blogophiles what I'm hoping for, my dreams and expectations and I fail, falling simultaneously onto my backside while getting an omelette mask, I'm going to look pretty stupid (possibly without the pretty.)

There may be a case for holding back slightly from telling you my tactics on the day, although even then I could be bluffing but I really don't think that there will be anyone who is in quite the same boat as me. Of the fancied contenders, the likes of Robbie Callister, Ray Pitts, Thomas Melvin, Eamon Harkin, Alan Cowin, Mark Hempsall (apologies if I've missed you off and you're going to win but at least there'll be a little less pressure,) none of whom are are race walkers, so nothing that I really do in training will really apply to them. Peter Kaneen, if he competes, is an entirely different level of athlete to me (his 10k is 4mins or so better than mine and he beat me by 2&1/2mins in the cross country the other day) and Sean Hands holds the Parish Record, so like for many of the above, copying me would probably be a backward step. That leaves Jock Waddington and if he wants to do the same as me, he's very welcome.

As for the second reason, if you don't laugh too loudly, I promise I'll give you all the gory details.

My Training with Peter Karran and U.K.I.P.

2008-02-01T09:13:00.000-08:00

Brilliant! The weather has arrived to give us all an excuse not to go training and there's no point in getting yourself injured, slipping on ice or snow!

The only ones going out in that are the committed... or perhaps more accurately, the ones who should be committed.

Sit down in front of the fire and have a 'Training Break.'

On the other hand, perhaps now is the perfect time to try 'Cross Training.' Go swimming, try the Gym, squash, badminton, short tennis, anything but if you're not injured, stay active. It's too easy to give up now and the hardest part is getting back in the routine.

I fully intended to go ahead and do my planned session (note to self about being committed) last night but work ran on too long, then it was 'School open evening' and by the time I returned my resolution had evaporated and my tea (not the liquid variety for once) was hot and ready.

In an earlier post, I referred to the fact that I'm no fan of using the treadmill but with only nine days until the Manx 10k championships and the year's shortest month until the H.S.B.C. Manx Open meeting, desperate measures were called for.

Luckily, for me, we have one at work, although this is the first time I have ever used it for walking. The object of pace training is to develop speed with good technique, give you a great cardiovascular work out and make you feel like you are dying. Actually, for those of you a little slow on the uptake, that was a joke but it's a certain by-product if you are putting enough effort into it.

My task today was 2 x 20 minutes. As my P.B. for 10k is a little under 50 minutes, it is not too hard to work out that to improve upon this, I've got to be under five per kilometre. What slightly complicates matters is that because of our strangely mixed society, our treadmill works in miles, though once again I'm very lucky because a 50 minute 10k is almost exactly 7.5mph or an 8 minute mile or 4 minute laps of the N.S.C.

If you can understand all that you're just about ready to start reading Alan Thompson's forum postings but start with the Manx Athletics ones before you move further afield. It's certainly not much of an incentive for me to move to the next level though. Then I'll really have to learn maths.

After a few false starts - my use of gym technology is no better than my arithmatic- I finally managed to get going and completed 2.54 miles in my first 20 minutes. After a break to recover, I managed to get my breath back, this time starting off at 7.8mph. When I went past 5 mins I increased the pace to 8mph, then 8.2 10 mins. By this time, I was really working hard. The sweat was pouring off me. At 15 mins, 8.5mph. Now I just had to hang on. With just 4 minutes left, I tried to visualise the N.S.C. I could see in my mind's eye where I was on the track. When I got down to the last two minutes, I was really going to give it my all. And then........... my hand caught the safety string, the band stopped, the power went down and I lost all the data!

Now in our troubled world, I don't think this really matters too much but it was a bit frustrating just then. I did finish the approximate time I had left but I managed to do the same again before dispensing with the safety cord. If Ronnie Corbett can do it why couldn't I?

Overall I was very satisfied with my performance but I wouldn't read too much into it because when in Manx weather will I again walk a whole race with 0mph headwind and I don't know how accurate the readings are. I would recommend training on the treadmill though because it really allowed me to concentrate on my technique and to ascertain what affected my speed despite Peter Karran rambling on about how he was in accordance with certain aspects of U.K. Independence Party policy on the radio.

This was going to be a quick concise post tonight, so I don't suppose I've much right to accuse Peter Karran of talking too much but enjoy your training or your training break.

Should Have Ditched My Modesty

2008-01-27T15:39:00.000-08:00

It probably wasn't too wise of me to forget to mention Allan Callow in my last post who measured the course, put out all the signs, picked them up again and spends so much of his time coaching and advising any of us that care to ask him.

And another who I forgot to mention in my original post is Jock Waddington who beat his time in the previous round by almost a full minute and set another P.B. by 43 seconds. I had a word with Jock before the start and he seemed disappointed that he wasn't training enough. I think he's training too much and I'm looking over my shoulder. A sub 50 minute time is surely beckoning if he could just get out a little more or I don't trip him up.

So back to 2004.

Fortunately, Barry Bridson had managed to get as far as Maughold the previous year and was equipped with such necessities as a torch which would have been wonderful had I not lost him at Andreas.

For those of you that are new to the Parish, Andreas is the best place on Earth! I couldn't believe the atmosphere when I arrived that 1st time. Everyone seems to be having a party, there are tents, music and countless offers of alcohol to ease the pain. The only drawback of being one of the faster contenders these days and also probably because the race now sets off one hour earlier is that I have left before the fun has begun.

My trainers were very cheap 'Pumas' but funnily enough had served me better than some of the more expensive shoes I was to purchase later on and I had to stop to remove what I thought was a stone and to put on some more clothes because I was getting cold. Two minutes later, I had to stop again in one of the tents and discovered that the 'stone' was actually a blister.

More worryingly, I had lost Barry and the trek up to the Church in pitch black along the stones and gravel was very difficult with no light but the camaraderie of the competitors helped me out and luckily for me, I met Edward Marshall who really helped me through the next few miles when I reached my low point.

As you've probably gathered if you've been reading my blog for a while, modesty has never really been one of my more obvious traits but on this occasion it was very nearly my undoing. Responding to the 'Call of Nature,' I briefly marched ahead of Edward to look for relief. There were a few other walkers around us at that stage and I edged further behind the hedge I was using to protect my privates from the proletariat and the next thing I knew I was lying at the bottom of a three foot ditch!

The next hour or so was pretty much a blur for me and both my back-up who by this stage included Stuart & Liam Murphy as well as Barry Needham, not to mention my wife Irene who I mumbled to on the telephone were extremely worried about me as I must have been suffering from shock. Fortunately, I had re-attached myself once again to Edward and with the extra help from his support who were using their headamps to help us see. I also vaguely remember getting a bollocking from a passing police car somewhere around the Ginger Hall area, although I felt the pavements were far more likely to cause me injury than any passing vehicle.

Until I was given a real lesson in hill climbing last year by Robbie Callister and Ray Pitts, I always considered it to be my strength and it was on the ascent to Maughold that I eventually regained my composure and started to feel that I just might finish the race. Now we were three, having rejoined with Barry Bridson. As all the finishers amongst you will know, it's feels like a long way from Maughold back to the main Ramsey to Laxey Road with the last really major challenge of the Parish being Ballajora. Barry especially was buoyed by having passed his previous furthest and Edward was just always quietly confident and very good company. We were now starting to pass people and a sorry state some were in too, particularly one gentleman who was a previous finisher (you can tell by the low number on the back) staggering all over the road. To this day I don't know whether he completed the lap but he assured us of his health if not his sanity.

When you do reach the main and you're still feeling in half decent shape, you really do begin to believe that you're definitely going to succeed, although even now I believe that there is an extra mile or so of tarmac put betweeen Glen Mona and the Dhoon and another couple put between Bulgham and Menorca especially for the Parish.

It was at Laxey Village that I slipped into another gear. I had stayed with Edward & Barry until then but I suddenly just wanted it all to be over and pressed on for home. For the underprepared and uninitiated though there are still surprises to be had and most of them on the Parish Course aren't pleasant ones. For some reason, I'd always assumed that Lonan Church was the little one at Baldrine and climbing that hill up back away from Douglas came as a real shock and I'd also thought it fairly obvious that we'd cut through the little lane from St. Peter's to Royal Avenue.

I'd sent my back-up off for a sleep sometime around Dreemskerry but it was here in Onchan that Barry Needham who had gone to pick up Irene rejoined me. That was a real boost. I also phoned my Mum who I think thought I'd gone completely off my head and had no idea I was still walking.

Coming down on to the Promenade, the feeling was fantastic and I was absolutely delighted. To cross that finish line for the first time was unbelievable, though this was somewhat tempered by the fact that he who thought he was so fit hadn't even managed 4 mph in 22 hours 20odd minutes* and actually ended up in 66* place which was behind the total number of finishers in the previous year.

I sat down on the bench and had a beer wrapped in a blanket (that was me not the beer.) I think I waited for Edward and Barry to finish and wanted to stay there until the whole 24 hour
s had elapsed but for some reason this plan didn't go down to well with Barry N. and Irene on this chilly June morning....

....... and I'd be buggered if I was walking home.

Today at the Races

2008-01-27T12:12:00.000-08:00

There was a fantastic HSBC Winter Walking League round at the Ronaldsway Industrial Estate Course with some really good performances right down the field in all age groups.

Despite the blustery wind and the hill which we all use as the excuse when when we've walked too slowly (let's face it, it's hardly the Sloc or Hibernia,) there were lots of P.B.s but surely the most outstanding was U15 Lauren Whelan who clocked in under 58 minutes on her debut at the distance. Unfortunately, I am relying on my age and alcohol besieged memory as the results haven't hit the Manx Harriers Website as yet but I am sure that there were also great times from the winner, Ian Wakley and a first sub one hour from Maurice Bellando. He missed by 40 seconds or so but I'm positive that Dave Mackey will soon replicate that with better conditions and a faster track at the N.S.C. in two weeks time for the 10k Championships and last H.S.B.C race of the winter.

My apologies to the many others who had brilliant walks today but I'm sure they will merit a mention on the the Web and in this week's Independent.

Those of you who are regular readers of this Blog will know by now that foremost of my many addictions is tea and therefore I must thank Junior Coach and today's top caterer, Elizabeth Corran(How many of you know that she is a Master's 40 gold medalist and former World age group record holder for 20k?) for doing the honours.

Manx Sport would be non-existent without the many people who help to put these races on for our enjoyment, so also I would like to add my appreciation of the judges, Mo Cox & Dougie Corkill (note the creeping racewalker puts them in first,) timekeepers, Bernie Shimell and Judy Morrey, marshals, Helen Renecle and Marie Jackson and of course Bridget Kaneen and Steve Taylor. I really don't know what Brian Brough was doing with the stopwatch hanging round his neck but his presence and kind encouragement are always welcome. If he's surplus to requirements and not racing, he can shout out my times at the next walk if he wants.

Take Off at Ronaldsway

2008-01-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

Especially for those of you who don't run or tend to do any cross-training (i.e. anything else vaguely sporting under the sun,) it's a must to do other things than just plod along for a few hours at the weekend if you want to improve your Parish time and what better way of doing it than bashing around Ronaldsway Industrial Estate for 10k on Sunday morning.

I have to admit that we have prettier courses and faster courses but there's usually plenty of tea and lots of biscuits to talk to. There's even a couple of people to eat sometimes. It is also very safe with little traffic.

Signing-on is at the social club from around 09:30 for 10.00 off and I am told by Bridget that it is a staggered start according to your handicap time. Don't worry if you haven't yet been given a handicap, you'll still get to race, though Mr. Taylor doesn't often let the bandits in for a win.

Juniors are welcome and if you're not quite up to 10k yet, you can usually walk any distance up to that, so bring your kids and your granny too.

Adrian Cowin has even predicted reasonable weather, so there's no excuses.

See you there.

Less Helpful Hints, More What Not to Do! And How Not to Win Friends and Influence People Part One.

2008-01-23T06:58:00.000-08:00

By the time 2004 Parish Walk came about, I was established on the Manx Athletic scene as a midfield Cross Country and road runner. After finishing my first walk (I still didn't really consider myself to be in a race,) the End to End in September 2003 in a blistering 9:30ish, I decided that I should follow up on the smattering of talent I'd shown at school for cross country twenty odd years ago.

I'd actually won the school race in 1980 and put down my defeat/absolute trouncing to Russell Collister a year later down to a bad day at the office or perhaps something to do with all the naughty substances I was abusing at the time. I'd always considered myself as a bit of a handy runner who just didn't fancy the pain, so it was a little bit of a shock to me to be beaten so comprehensively by so many people on my return two decades later, as I thought myself to be very fit, from playing 1&1/2 hours of football every week.

When June came around, I had started to do basic running training as well as my football and I had what I thought was a pretty good plan for the race depite not really having done any walking practice besides a few 2 hours with the family off road on a Sunday. By this stage, I had started to tell people that I was going to finish this time, although I didn't really discuss it very thoroughly with Irene.

Grand Plan: Walk with Irene to Peel at approximately 4 miles per hour, then meet Barry Needham who I'd arranged to back me up overnight and up the pace to the finish to 5 or 6 miles per hour to the finish in about 19 hours.

It all seemed so simple for a fit young(ish) lad like me and I'd even had a side bet with Peter Thor, that he was going to double his charity money (Mighty Oak Appeal was all the rage in those days) if I finished in under 20 hours but the enormity of the mental aspect of the task was starting to kick in by the time I reached Glen Willyn.

I didn't know him in those days but Gordon Corran pulled over and warned me that what I thought was my race walking technique down the hill was more of a jog and that I should just calm down because I had plenty of time.

Settle down I did but I was still a man on a mission, trying to catch all the people I'd let go in the early stages of the race and it was probably a good thing for me that I managed to draw level with Angie Southern and Kuba Szymanski and was able to talk for a while at not such a break neck pace (Not that my neck is very strong.) They lasted until Ballaugh and Jurby respectively and then once again, I was on my own. Despite the fact that I was working very hard, I was a little peeved to note that I was no longer catching the lad just ahead of me and once again, my strength of mind came in to doubt. He was obviously feeling the same way because eventually he stopped and waited for me.

The course of our conversation turned to what we did for a living and it turned out that Barry Bridson was an airport fireman. Using diplomatic skills honed over the previous 39 years, I blurted out, 'You're not the fella that turned the engine over the other week are you?' And if you are reading this now, Barry I apologise again for then and another time for resurrecting the story.

He must be an easy going lad because he didn't punch me or walk off in a huff. Apart from the little mirage that is set for first time parish walkers i.e. the 'Welcome to Bride' sign that's about 450 miles away from the Church, another factor of my lack of preparation was coming to light or more appropriately dark. Yes 'Brains' here hadn't actually considered that to go wandering around the Manx countryside at night, it would be a marked advantage to be able to see!

I think perhaps this is getting a little long and I may be boring you, so for those getting comatose from my turgid prose, I'll give you blessed relief if you've stuck it this far. For the 'Blogaholics,' I'll leave you wanting more (You may be the sort of person more likely to finish the race actually) dangling by a thread on the Northern Plain.

Part two to follow

What not to follow:

1. Its probably not a good idea to make up your preparations as you go along, even if you're feeling a bit silly in case you don't finish. Remember better athletes than you (unless you're Tony Okell) have failed to get to the end but planning properly might just help you get there.

2. The first part of my pace plan was fine. It's certainly no shame to do 32 miles at four miles an hour and many an old stager will say, 'The Race doesn't start until Peel' but if you are increasing the speed do it gradually and don't panic by thinking that you must suddenly go as quickly as you can.

3. Me in the dark. Buy a head torch! With the hand held variety, the light is always moving around and even if you don't find it a nuisance to carry, it's going to be a real handicap when you want to eat and drink.

Scooting Past the Fwo Feet off the Ground Dudes

2008-01-18T03:50:00.000-08:00

Like buses and bad luck, for my blog posts, you had to wait for weeks and then you get three together. Of course if I had any brains, I'd just save them as drafts in times of great inspiration and then drip feed them to you. (Oh dear. That sounds like I think this is more than the rantings of an idiot)I promise that after this epistle, I will not rub your noses in my holiday any more.

Five sessions were all I managed over my three week break but I suppose the best one I did was also the most boring. After a couple of glasses of wine and a large beer, I decided to have a go on the hotel treadmill and settled on a 5km time trial. Somehow I managed to walk 24:40 which is only 30 odd seconds outside my P.B. (PERSONAL BEST) but I don't think I want to make the treadmill more of a regular thing.

Also I did another pace session along the promenade. As I alluded to in an earlier post, for some some illogical reason, I hate being passed by runners. Therefore, Los Pocillos to Los Jameos promenade really is the perfect place for me to walk because they all seemed so slow!

One of the less savoury aspects of my character is that I love overtaking the two feet off the ground dudes. It's silly and not a little smug, I know because I don't know the distance they are running (could be a marathon while I'm just doing 300m reps,) whether or not they have passed their 90th birthday or even just on a warm down having just broken the world 10k record but I get this amazing feeling, almost of schadenfreude (apologies for spelling) delighting in the fact that I'm passing them as opposed to their misery.

On my 5th and final walk, I set my Lanzarote record, passing seven runners and only having two cyclists zoom past me.

Unfortunately, I will not be able to compete in the Isle of Man Cross Country Championships (Details on Forum, Manx Athletics and probably Northern A.C. websites) this weekend but I highly recommend a trip up to Crossags Farm Ramsey as it will be a great opportunity for you to gather some good C.V. training and to have a splash around in the mud and water. Steve Kelly and his team always make you feel very welcome and you definitely will get a cup of tea and biscuits afterwards.

After the embarassment of giving you a bum steer at Glen Lough, this time I rang Steve up and heard it from the horse's mouth.

00:36:00
by Michael
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Failed Dancer & Personal Trainer

2008-01-17T03:36:00.000-08:00

The Director de Animacion at the Hotel San Antonio was a total nutcase and therefore was totally suitable for our family. We had great fun joining in all the activities around the complex and Alex Williams from the Domincan Republic was the Hallelluja Man who made everyone feel included.

After I won the Hotel tennis competition(more due to the fact that there was a dearth of players than my shotmaking,) he challenged me to a match.

This time I prevailed due to the fact that Alex was somewhat out of condition and I seized upon the opportunity to add personal training to my portfolio, suggesting that we went for a run the following morning (of course I didn't tell him that I would be walking.) In the course of our session Alex told me that he was the winner of a few walking races while he was at school in the Caribbean and indeed he even kept up with me for a few paces at one stage.

My plan was that I would be able to motivate myself better if I had someone else to train with. Unfortunately, Alex likes to party even more than us and this turned out to be a one off.

Although I had the edge on him with the sports that we played, this was strictly not the case with the aerobics or dancing and his attempts to teach Irene and me (there were others most of whom were much better) how to do the Maschatta and the Merengue were predictably disastrous, though it certainly kept everyone around the pool area entertained.

Bitten Off More Than I Could Chew

2008-01-14T01:02:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to All

Brrr! I'm sat in my freezing office with rapidly diminishing memories of sunshine and warmth. I bet you are all really sorry for me.

My last post 'spoke' optimistically about the new beginnings of my winter warm weather training. Well I tried. However the sunshine and sangria (not to mention copious amounts of Tropical & Dorada beer) sabotaged the plan pretty comprehensively and the whole experience is now being rebranded as a much needed training break.

More of my holiday later but after a fairly heavy day at work on Friday, I eventually resumed training at 07:24 (not twenty five past seven. the extras minute is important) on Saturday. The first half hour or so began with a few loosening exercises as opposed to stretching. Apparently, you should not do static stretches prior to a session when your body is cold as it risks injury and weakens the muscles. As I have said previously, I'm no expert but am just repeating what I have been told by coaches, so if this doesn't work for you, please don't sue.

I followed that with walking drills that are intended to improve technique, posture, loosen the hips and stretch the hamstrings amongst other things. This includes walking with your hands behind your back, on your head and also clasped on your tummy. Over the last few years, I have also found that I have struggled with shoulder injuries, so there are also a couple that I use to try and loosen my shoulders before I start walking properly.

It is probably unwise to try any of this without instruction, so if you are able to make it to the Manx Harriers Clubhouse Tuesdays and Thursdays at about 1730 to 1745, walking training takes place usually under the guidance of Allan Callow who makes walkers of all experience and ablilties most welcome.

By eight o'clock Allan, Marie Jackson, Karen Renecle and Lauren Whelan had also turned up and we set off as a group, heading for the promenade via the Quay. Personally, I felt that I had to get some proper endurance work in after my recent sloth, so with detours up to GlenCutchery Road, Signpost Corner, then out to Groudle via King Edward Bay Golf, I headed out on my own. By the time I reached the promenade, I began to realise that my legs were disappearing from under me and time was getting short ( My son Terence trains with St. Georges U11 s at 10.30.)

Meeting Nigel Armstrong, Mike Garrett, Murray Lambden and Paul Curphey going in the opposite rekindled my enthusiasm as I knew they would be turning round and catching me soon and I hate being passed by runners (More of in later post.)

By the time they caught me, I was really struggling and it was getting seriously late, so I ran with them for a short time and then jogged back to the N.S.C. for my car.

So the mistake/moral of todays session was: Make sure you ease back in gradually and don't try and make up for missed training in one big go. Though I have to admit I was pleased to have been on my feet for 2 & 3/4 hours, even if it wasn't an even effort.

P.S. I apolologise to the Blogoholics for not writing for so long.

Quick Hello

2007-12-23T13:54:00.000-08:00

It´s a while since I had six days without training when I haven´t been injured but the six came to an end today as did my lethargy and my warm weather training began.

Getting up at 07:30 on my holidays is not something that comes naturally to me but I reckon that´s the time I must use to cause as little disruption to everyone else´s break.

I let myself in fairly gently and completed my first rep in about 6:20ish, a lovely walk across the promenade between Los Pocillos and Los Jameos beach in Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote ( those of you who didn´t hate me beforehand probably will before the end of this blog.)

Even at that time of day the sun was already high in the sky and conditions were perfect. I reckon the distance was just over 1k and I gradually reduced my time to 5:30 over five lengths of my new little course.

That´s all for now as there is a queue to use the computer and my money is running out fast.

Merry Christmas

Secret Addiction & Illicit Trysts

2007-12-19T11:13:00.000-08:00

Saturday evening at work and I could barely put one foot in front of the other! The H.S.B.C. 10K was only hours away and an old persistent groin injury had flared up.

I had a couple of Christmas pints with Dave Mackey after I'd finished as he was going to be watching two overrated teams that usually play in red instead of walking the following day. I was not at all convinced that I'd be racing

By the time I arrived home at about 11:30pm, it was still sore but I decided to apply frozen peas to the aforementioned area (not very pleasant) and had another couple of drinks before retiring, the Manx David Beckham with Colden Balls.

Miraculously, Sunday morning, the pain was gone but the day was freezing and I was still feeling less than enthusiastic about the race.

Due to the handicap system, my start time was some 37 minutes after the watch was set off but this gave me the opportunity to watch some good technique by the juniors who were competing by this time.

Finally, I decided that it was about time that I warmed up but I left it right until the last minute before stripping off.

After all the moaning and whingeing about the weather, I found myself on the line, suddenly for the first time feeling up for the challenge. The conditions really were perfect for race walking and gibbing out of my planned 3 hour session the previous day ( I only did just over an hour) left me fresher than I normally would be for such an event.

Although I was nearly 40 seconds behind my personal best time, I was extremely happy to finish in 49:45 seconds, in 17th place way behind the winner, Tara Slinger.

There were a lot of good performances all round , especially from Andy Green who knocked another huge slice off his P.B.

There are many people who I suppose are currently trying to think up ways to meet their secret lover over the holiday period or store themselves a bottle in a hidden place.

I'm going on Holiday for three weeks and somehow I have to find a way to fit in the odd bit of pace training or sneak away to fulfil my new Blog addiction without the rest of the family noticing.

You've probably realised by now how sad I am, so I reckon you may hear from me again before the festivities but if not I hope you enjoy the Christmas and New Year and manage to shoehorn in the odd session yourselves.

Christmas H.S.B.C. Winter Walking League Sunday

2007-12-13T02:09:00.000-08:00

This Blog Lark! I promised myself that I would make one posting per week, so as to make sure I had things left to write about and that it would be fresh and leave you wanting more but I seem unable to keep away and I apologise if I'm boring anyone (Though as they say: You know where the 'exit' button is, where the on/off, there's a boat in the morning ad infinitum)

The Christmas Winter walking league fixture at St. Johns, 2004, was the first ever race walk(excluding PW & EtoE) I ever competed in and my wife, Irene and I completed the 10k (three & 1/2 laps of the Village) in a scorching 1 hour and 20 minutes. I always will remember Steve Partington urging us on, 'Come on, it's meant to be hurting!' so knowing how encouraging he is to everyone in all forms of racing, we must have been travelling pretty slowly.

All the walking events are very sociable affairs with the Harriers Racewalking Committee and their helpers usually chipping in, not only to make everyone feel welcome but provide us with a nice hot drink and usually some nibbles. For the Christmas H.S.B.C. W.W.L. fixture, they always try that little bit harder, providing a buffet and a raffle* in St. Johns Football Clubhouse afterwards.

* The Raffle is in aid of the Junior Walkers Fund which helps enable the club to take young race walkers off the Island to compete.

There are a whole host of distances from 1k up to 10k walkers of all abilities from 5 to 85 years old are catered for with all having an equal chance of winning their race due to the handicap system.

The weather forecast is excellent for the time of year, so make sure you turn up on Sunday from 09:30 for a 10:00 start wearing bright colours and something related to Christmas. All raffle prizes with be gratefully accepted.

Mud, Glorious Mud

2007-12-10T13:06:00.000-08:00

After the race last week, my body felt a little sore to say the least and I was advised to have an easy week on the training.

Monday, I warmed up with the juniors at the N.S.C. and then just walked about 5 easy laps (2k) with Andy Green who doesn't seem to have discovered the meaning of 'easy lap' yet as I really struggled to keep up with him.

Apparently, the theory is that if you work very hard in a race or training session, the next thing to do is use all the same muscle again but without the intensity and there might be a possibilty that you will regain the flexibility. I am assured that recovery is even more important than the hard work.

This time however, Sean seems to have pushed me a bit further than I am able to extend myself because despite the ice bath on Sunday and another slow 1 &1/2 hours Wednesday, my hamstrings and some muscly things behind my knees (As you may have gathered at this point I tend to glaze over when things get technical) were very tight and I was told by Mark Hempsall who gave me a sports massage that if I didn't miss my plannned pace session for Thursday night, I'd probably end up injured.

By Saturday morning, geed up by that fantastic weather (ha ha,) I could still only muster myself to do 45 minutes before Allan Callow and I decided that enough was enough and we headed off for a hot drink.

The TT access road is usually a very sheltered place to go during wind and rain but I managed to get drenched by a wagon driving along the Peel Road.

Sunday, one minute, I was serving sprouts to the Welsh Society and then twenty minutes later I was dashing from the car to the start line at Glen Lough Campsite, probably faster than at any time during the race.

Full marks to John Halligan, Kevin Loundes, Nigel, the flying dentist and the other sharp end boys because somehow they floated across the fields, through the bog and 24 times over the river whereas it all seemed to be sucking me underneath.

For the first time, I was lapped in a cross country, although I was priveleged to have a race long duel with former top athlete, Dave Newton. I think the lead swapped between us in our 'Mini Prix' about three times before I finally managed to head him by about 20 yards. Then, disaster struck. My foot was grabbed by the bog monster (I can confirm this was not Steve Partington as he was standing laughing at me 15 yards away) and I fell flat on my face. Despite this calamity, I still emerged just in front of Dave but he was breathing down my neck. However, after struggling up the next climb, we entered the final field with me just in the ascendence. Convinced, I could rely on my age advantage, I pressed for home but Dave with as tenacious as the mud, we were dead level over the last 50 yards. Surely, I would triumph; I knew I had the strength to arrive at the line first. However, my genuine lack of speed was the final counter and you really have to admire Dave who is such a great and sporting competitor. We 'dead heated' on time and Newty said that we should be placed level but everyone knew that he had just got the better of me and the results are correct.

These days there seems nothing that Murray can't do on his website and the race video, culminating with our battle is now on the front page of ManxAthletics.com (I'm the black one)

Manx Gas Cross Country at Glen Lough on Sunday

2007-12-07T00:39:00.000-08:00

What's this got to do with the Parish Walk?

Well, in truth not an awful lot but this time of year is a great time of year to improve your fitness base for the travails ahead and what better way to do it than a sliding, splashing, mud splattered, lungbusting few laps around Glen Lough campsite?

For those of you just starting your journey to the levels you're going to need for June, there is the 'Short Course' race which is usually aboput 1.5 to 2 miles long and for those a bit further along the road, there is the main race which I think is about 4 miles for the ladies and about 6 miles for the gentlemen (which I suppose is a bit unfair on the girls who will still have to walk 85 mile in June.)

You don't have to be a 'super athlete' to join in and everyone will make you very welcome. If things are the same as a couple of years ago, Western Athletic Club who are hosting the event also do a brilliant job providing hot soup at the end.

There are races for all the family, so bring everyone along and it should be fun for all.

I hope to escape work in time to race, so in the words of Adrian Cowin, 'Good luck and see you there.' (I hope it's not a bad sign that he hasn't posted his usual forecast)

Peel to Douglas Wade

2007-12-02T23:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the Empire Garage Peel to Douglas Walk, held in the wettest conditions ever apparently, according to John Cannell (six times P.W. winner and veteran of 30 Peel to Douglas) and the way I was dripping at the end, I'm not about to dispute that.

Despite the weather, 55 hardy souls started the race and all but one managed to finish. Finding marshals has been a real challenge in recent times and I hope that none have them have been put off by the drenching they all received on Sunday. Even in the rain , they were all very encouraging to us and I think I can thank them, all the other organisers, timekeeper etc. on behalf of all the walkers. Particular mention should be made of Paul Jackson and Nick Percival who overcame mechanical disaster to get all the signs in place and pick them up after.

Although walking through rivers with feet feeling like lumps of lead, there were some great performances, particularly by Peter Kaneen and Marie Jackson, winners of the men's and lady's races.

A little further down the field, Andy Green continued his impressive introduction to race walking. Mark Stewart still has a little way to go before he gets back to his best (82 mins) but improved on his last race, Janice Quirk finshed on the podium again and Dave Mackey knocked nearly 11 minutes off his January time, thrilling the ladies in his 'Skins.'

Believe it or not except for the two highest profile races on the Island (Parish & End to End,) Sean Hands' and my P.B.s (personal best performances) are very similar and I have spent most of 2007 hoping that he would come back in the belief that we would spur each other on to better things. Well , yesterday, I spent about 5 or 6 miles wishing he would go away again. I heard footsteps coming alongside me at Greeba Castle (at least I think it was there. My brain tends to go A.W.O.L. during races) and looked across expecting to see Jock Waddington and was surprised to see Sean who I think it's fair to say hasn't really been at the races since his triumphant 2006 season culminated with his brilliant win in the 100 miles.

We passed each other several times on the swim into home and it was only in the last mile or so when I was able to open a little gap. In fact he nearly caught me at the end when I tiptoed along the kerb instead of parting the waves in the lake at the Q.B. Let's hope he will now get back to his best and our rivalry will continue. Whether I am in the same Parish as him remains to be seen.

Rather than offer tips, I think it would be better just to tell you about the mistakes I make in each race and training session and pretty soon, you'll have a comprehensive list of what not to do.

Yesterday's novice errors were:

I wore a cotton tea-shirt instead of Lycra vest and within minutes it was absolutely sodden and soo heavy that I had half a mind to stop and take it off.

Forgot to take my inhaler and wheezed from Peel to Douglas.

Lubricated under my arms and between my legs but forgot to take the rain into account and apply the vaseline to other parts of my body. Therefore, today I am pretty sore in some sensitive areas (and I don't mean feet or muscles.)

Blogger: Michael's Parish Blog - Manage Posts

2007-11-29T12:20:00.000-08:00

Blogger: Michael's Parish Blog - Manage Posts

Peel to Douglas

2007-11-29T07:15:00.000-08:00

Back to the present with a bang! It just occurred to me that the keener parishwalk.com visitor may still have the opportunity to take part in the 10 miles Peel to Douglas Walk this Sunday 2nd December.

There is 08.15 signing on at the Philip Christian Centre in Peel for a 09.00 start or P.J. 487873 & Bridget 852884 will probably still appreciate your help if you want to put something back in.

There's no pre-entry for this one though word on the street points to the hot favourite, Peter Kaneen becoming the first man ever to win the race twice in one year.

Looking at the Marshal Board leads me to believe that second place may be disputed by Sean Hands, Jock Waddington & myself with visiting walker Mark Byrne adding to the melting pot.

Chris Cale and fast improving newcomer Andy Green may also come into the equation while the likes of Ray Pitts and Vinny Lynch are also capable of making their mark over the shorter distance.

Marie Jackson looks set to be the front runner in the Ladies' race, though she has been struggling with a niggling injury, so Jane Mooney or Lisa Motley may come to the fore. Jane Kennaugh is always an unknown quantity in this kind of event while Sue Biggart has been working hard on her technique over the Autumn, and it remains to be seen whether she is starting to add genuine speed to her undisputed stamina.

How it all begin

2007-11-29T00:33:00.001-08:00

Having devoured all the 'Posts' made by last year's 'Bloggers,' I felt it was a great honour to be asked to follow in Steve Partington's footsteps (something I became very accustomed to over the last three years) and if I can make it half as good as he did, I shall be very pleased. Speculation is rife as to the identity of the other bloggers and by now you should know but I don't.

As a family, my wife, Irene and I decided to take up walking in late 2001. Though I'd been here since 1978, I quickly became amazed by how little of the Isle of Man, you actually see driving around in a car and this seemed a great way to get the us all fit, though I can't claim that it was a total success with everyone. Our two eldest, Matthew & Elizabeth weren't interested at all and wouldn't come and it is still a major challenge to persuade our Lucy to join us though just occasionally, she may admit to having enjoyed the odd expedition.

I first became aware of the Parish Walk in 2002. I had just spent the previous 24 years in glorious oblivion, not even having heard of it but having recently got the 'Walking Bug,' the fact that Sara Denver with whom I'd worked with for some time was attempting to travel a massive, 32.5 miles to Peel, was surely impossible.

Well, she did it and I had to fork out my sponsor money but I had decided that was a challenge I'd really have to face.

2003 came around relatively quickly and Irene & I entered our first walk. We had done a little bit of training in the previous weeks, culminating in 16 miles(ish) along the course to Castletown (we didn't know you doubled back at Malew)

We had never before done anything so hard but also so enjoyable because of the fantastic atmosphere, though the Sloc actually felt easy because we jettisoned our heavy hiking boots in favour of trainers at Rushen.

One of my enduring memories, being in the company of Irene, Sara and her gentleman friend, Chaz, was trying so hard on the section between Glen Rushen and Dalby to keep up a reasonable pace, when just in front was a couple who looked like they had just left the N.S.C., chatting, laughing and smoking!

We did make it, despite Irene being in great pain (she suffers from flat feet) and I was very proud that she overtook so many other competitors on the way into Peel. The crowds were magnificent cheering us in to a finish in 8:12 and we sat in the sunshine outside the Creek Inn, reflecting upon our day, shoes off, and quaffing the most enjoyable beers of our lives.