The Coming Running Year

[Irish-John]

Thank goodness that COVID apparently is not going to shut down as many events as it has. Virtual Runs certainly have their place - but nothing compares to the energy and enjoyment of a 'Real' race

I started from scratch - and I mean 'scratch', hadn't run more than a hundred paces probably in my life - in 2016. I soon got hooked on this running lark, and went from wishing I could run seven tenths of a mile without stopping (or dropping dead of a heart attack) to a 'bold ambition'.

First year - 5K, second 10k, third Ten Miler, fourth - Half Marathon.

The idea of doing a FULL marathon never really seemed feasible until one came along that I just could not resist. I managed it, but basically had a unique set of training circumstances that saw me being in the best running condition ever. I also did it in year Four, and needed every bit of running knowledge as well as physical ability to do it.

Otherwise - motivation to keep running was tough. I run on my own - but always aware I am 'never running alone' because of my VRBs here - and quite honestly without the fun and excitement of a race (though I certainly do not 'race', I 'partake) to look forward to, I did scale back more than I wish.

So - I figure February there will be a 5 or 10k to ease back into the fray, and hopefully in October the truly bizarre but enjoyable event ever again, the Army Ten Miler at Fort Bragg. A few opportunities in between also no doubt, depending on time and place and resources

There are not many 'Runner friendly' routes around where I am mainly based, and the boredom factor is definitely something that crept in as I got more proficient and confident about running them, so to have something to focus on is really motivating on days when I just do not want to go out the door

After three months of working on a ship and basically zero opportunities to run, I am now finding it far easier to regain my physical ability than motivational - though I know that when I do get back to the level I was at, the runs will be inherently more enjoyable once I start hitting the distances I like to, and also the 'Habit' of running every second day will indeed be a habit once again

Anyway - I hope everyone is looking forward to running in the New Year because they enjoy running, and not because it's a 'Resolution' Resolutions have always meant sacrifice to me - but even on the not so great running days, I have never felt that I am missing out - sacrificing - anything else.

And to me, that - not speed, proficiency, distance or time - is what defines a 'Runner' vis a vis 'someone who runs'

Wishing you all many happy miles in your future

(Photo is where I wish I was still based lol)

[MrsLydiaWickham Graduate]

What a brilliant photo! So many interesting and positive themes in your post, how you gradually built up your distances, your confidence in your ability to regain fitness, and knowing where your happy running spot is. Love your thoughts on resolutions/sacrifice and being a runner. Thank you! 🎄

[Irish-John Graduate in reply to MrsLydiaWickham]

Thank you MrsL That is one of my favourite photos - taken before I ever ran, looking at it now it's hard to believe I was as unfit (and looked so darn old lol) as I was back then. Now - I look forward to walking in the snow

[Annieapple Administrator Graduate]

Love this photo!!!!! Thanks for a wonderful post!

[Irish-John Graduate in reply to Annieapple]

Thank you Annie. It was in the UK, and we did not expect snow. But - turned out to be quite a fun time and now I am grateful that, apart from anything else, running has since cleared up the Cold-Induced asthma that used to very much limit my snow walks

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

Wishing you many happy miles too Irish-John

[Irish-John Graduate in reply to SueAppleRun]

Thank you W&S

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

Good to hear from you Irish-John, as usual another great post from you, I am still running, I am not sure if I told you that I ran a half marathon on Sunday 27th November, that run was dedicated in memory of the late great Tim (IannodaTruffe)

[Irish-John Graduate in reply to AlMorr]

You did Al, and what a great tribute to his memory, and validation of his guidance to us all when we arrived on the Forum with out histories of 'could never run'

Hoping to be in the UK in '23, and if it is at all possible you are definitely one of my VRBs I would love to visit

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate in reply to Irish-John]

👍 🏃🏾

[Frenc Graduate]

Thank you for a great post Irish-John - I am definitely looking forward to running in the new year! It’s been very stop start recently, so something to look forward to. Great photo 😊😊😊.

[Irish-John Graduate in reply to Frenc]

Winter and running is not a great mix But, even 'short' runs keep the spirit up

[OldManRunning Graduate]

Lovely post Irish-John, I will take inspiration from you 😁👍🍻

[Irish-John Graduate in reply to OldManRunning]

Thank you OMR

[Cassandra61 Graduate]

This is a lovely, inspirational post. May 2023 be kind to you and bring you all the runs your heart desires.

[Irish-John Graduate in reply to Cassandra61]

Thank you C61

[Birdlady64 Graduate]

What a wonderful post! I am most definitely looking forward to running next year Irish-John What a wonderful gift it is to be able to run. I hope next year brings you as many happy miles as you desire.

[Irish-John Graduate in reply to Birdlady64]

Thank you Birdlady