Now that I am not running, I need a new excuse to travel overseas. I love travelling to third world countries, I am a serial volunteerer and am very concerned about global health. So every year I plan to use my medical skills to volunteer overseas each summer. Last summer I went to India but didn't gain much experience because I had only done 2 years of medical school. After our first clinical year we now have much more experience and useful skills to work in hospitals. I have been following the progress of a few overseas clinics that require volunteers so in August I started the process of deciding which one to spend my summer at.
Several of the clinics I plan to visit over the next few years only take students after 4th year or in final year. The Bairo Pite clinic (http://bairopiteclinic.org/) in East Timor is generally one of these. However I was ecstatic to find they accepted my application and I will be spending a month at the clinic in December and January. The clinic has been run for about 12 years by an American, Dr Dan. It relies on medical students and foreign doctors to keep it going.
This is how I have planned my trip so far.
December 7th - fly Melbourne to Bali, Indonesia via Darwin.
Spend 4 nights/3 days in Bali staying at a homestay in Ubud.
December 11th - fly Bali to Dili, East Timor
Spend 32 days working 6.5 days a week at the Bairo Pite clinic. Staying at a homestay in Dili city.
January 11th - fly Dili to Darwin
Spend 3 nights in Darwin
January 14th - fly Darwin to Melbourne
I am very excited about spending a month living in Dili. I just feel so at home in developing nations. I just love the way of life.
It is going to be hard work in Dili. The medical students generally work 6.5 days per week. Long days too.
This is what a typical day is supposed to be like
7.30am - give a tutorial to the locals about healthcare
8.00am - ward rounds with the whole team
11.00ish - go out with a 'mobile clinic' to a remote town - this is generally a 4WD with a nurse and interpreter and medical student. See many patients. Dr Dan runs an outpatient clinic back at Bairo Pite Clinic during this time
4.00ish - the medical students run a ward round to ensure the patients are stable
6.00ish - finish
later - can stay back to help with maternity.
I hope I will be able to cope with these long days in the heat. I hope to meet many new people and do lots of activities around the island too, such as scuba diving or snorkelling.
But I need to keep studying now if there is going to be any point in me going to East Timor!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Travelling
I wanted to write on this blog again mostly to document my trip to Asia over summer.
Since I left school at the end of 2008 I have been able to travel overseas quite a few times. I love travelling so much and want to visit so many places. Many of my friends have been to exotic places on family holidays but what makes my trips far more special is the fact that I fund it all myself through hard work during the year. Not many other students work about 20 hours a week while studying medicine.
These are the overseas trips I have done since 2009.
January 2009 - 3 weeks in Thailand (with family)
June 2009 - 3 days in Christchurch, NZ for the Christchurch marathon with friends.
July 2009 - 2 weeks in India with friends
September 2009 - 10 days in Europe for the World Mountain Running Championships visiting Italy, London and Paris and back via Malaysia
June 2010 - Christchurch, NZ with my Dad for the Christchurch marathon
December 2010/January 2011 - 3 weeks in India, both with friends and with a group of medical students doing volunteer work and a few days in Singapore with a local friend on the way home
Since I left school at the end of 2008 I have been able to travel overseas quite a few times. I love travelling so much and want to visit so many places. Many of my friends have been to exotic places on family holidays but what makes my trips far more special is the fact that I fund it all myself through hard work during the year. Not many other students work about 20 hours a week while studying medicine.
These are the overseas trips I have done since 2009.
January 2009 - 3 weeks in Thailand (with family)
June 2009 - 3 days in Christchurch, NZ for the Christchurch marathon with friends.
July 2009 - 2 weeks in India with friends
September 2009 - 10 days in Europe for the World Mountain Running Championships visiting Italy, London and Paris and back via Malaysia
June 2010 - Christchurch, NZ with my Dad for the Christchurch marathon
December 2010/January 2011 - 3 weeks in India, both with friends and with a group of medical students doing volunteer work and a few days in Singapore with a local friend on the way home
Crash and burn - 2011
I finished off 2010 injured (but still running ~20km per week) and in India. I was looking forward to doing the 2011 cross country season but thought it'd be a slow start.
I spent 3.5 weeks holidaying and doing some medical work in India. It was brilliant and I didn't want to come back - I love the third world way of life.
After I came back from India I couldn't believe I was still sore. I started Med III at Dandenong hospital and was spending all my money on massage and chiropractor treatments. Finally in March I saw Dr Karen again who told me my problem wasn't a challenge. I thought she'd fix me up and I planned to build a base and get back to speedwork in June. During this time I was still running 20-30km per week. I was also riding my bike and catching the train to the hospital which I really enjoyed.
I had a couple of MRIs and cortisone injections into a spinal nerve and my hip in May. After this I stopped running. Nothing seemed to fix my injury. It was causing my so much pain it was affecting my uni - I couldn't stand up on ward rounds and couldn't sit down to study. Basically my whole leg hurt - back, glutes, ITB, hip flexor, groin, shin.
My 21st birthday came and I received a beautiful road bike. I was banned from riding it (but of course I still did).
It is now October. Like last year, I am eagerly awaiting my next summer overseas trip. Track season is starting.
I CANNOT BELIEVE I AM STILL NOT RUNNING!
I spent 3.5 weeks holidaying and doing some medical work in India. It was brilliant and I didn't want to come back - I love the third world way of life.
After I came back from India I couldn't believe I was still sore. I started Med III at Dandenong hospital and was spending all my money on massage and chiropractor treatments. Finally in March I saw Dr Karen again who told me my problem wasn't a challenge. I thought she'd fix me up and I planned to build a base and get back to speedwork in June. During this time I was still running 20-30km per week. I was also riding my bike and catching the train to the hospital which I really enjoyed.
I had a couple of MRIs and cortisone injections into a spinal nerve and my hip in May. After this I stopped running. Nothing seemed to fix my injury. It was causing my so much pain it was affecting my uni - I couldn't stand up on ward rounds and couldn't sit down to study. Basically my whole leg hurt - back, glutes, ITB, hip flexor, groin, shin.
My 21st birthday came and I received a beautiful road bike. I was banned from riding it (but of course I still did).
It is now October. Like last year, I am eagerly awaiting my next summer overseas trip. Track season is starting.
I CANNOT BELIEVE I AM STILL NOT RUNNING!
Crash and Burn - 2010
A lot has changed since I last posted on here.
2010 goals - I only managed three. 1) Pass Med I and Med II. 2) Work too many hours per week. 3) Sub 1.28 half marathon.
I had a fairly good first half of the year in terms of running. I lost the first couple of months to overwhelming fatigue - again. But by mid-April I could train a bit again and I was running quite well in May. Despite not much training I was putting out good results - 10.36 for 3km, 18.36 for 5km, 22.50 at Jells Park - 6km. I was really happy with those results.
At the start of May I had my peak - two weeks in Traralgon for uni which were two of the best weeks of my life. We had a fun group staying there and did some interesting things. But I also did some fantastic running, particularly with Kathryn and the Traralgon Harriers. This culminated in a 27k long run, by myself around Traralgon.
The week after I came back to Melbourne I hurt my Achilles at Tuesday training. Sandown was 1.5 weeks away and Christchurch was 2.5 weeks away, more importantly. I nursed the Achilles to get through Sandown and it seemed to get better. However, when I warmed up for Sandown I had the most excruciating pain in my ribs. Usually my ribs are a bit sore while training but this pain was BAD. There was no way I could run for 38 or so minutes with that pain. So I watched Sandown to get ready for the more important Christchurch half marathon.
I had put a lot into Sandown - paying for my Dad and I to go there for 3 nights just so I could run a half marathon. Dad had never been overseas so it was a big trip. There was no way I could go there and not do the race. During the week between Sandown and Christchurch I was doing everything I could to make sure I got through the race. I did a run at uni on Wednesday and the rib pain was still there - argh! But we flew to Christchurch on the Friday night anyway. Dad and I spent Saturday sightseeing and I didn't really rest my legs because I wanted to make the most of the trip if the race didn't work out. However I ended up having a great race running 1h 27m 48s. I was very happy with that! I came 2nd in my age group and enjoyed the prize giving ceremony again.
After Christchurch I kept training hard and didn't have a rest. I did a session 2 days after a race and continued the long runs. Two weeks after the race I did a Sunday morning long run but was unhappy with only running - I think it was 20km. I just felt fatigued. So after babysitting during the day I did another 7k, but I felt a sharp pain in both my right foot and left knee. This knee pain ended up keeping me out for 6 weeks which felt like the end of the world.
At this time I also changed training groups which was a very hard thing to do. I thought I would never be able to replace my old group but my new group seems fantastic. If only I could do some training.
At the end of July I started back run/walk and by September managed a full week of training. But at the start of October I was pushing myself too much again and my right leg started to get injured. First it was a sore ITB. I also felt like I'd overstretched my hamstring at Bikram but the pain there didn't go away. I managed a 1 sec 1500m PB out of nowhere - 4.57. I was so happy to have my new coach and training group there to support me. But then my glute became very painful. I went to an unfamiliar sports doctor who thought a cortisone injection in the hip bursa would fix it. I got this done which didn't help and then went away to India for the rest of the year...
2010 goals - I only managed three. 1) Pass Med I and Med II. 2) Work too many hours per week. 3) Sub 1.28 half marathon.
I had a fairly good first half of the year in terms of running. I lost the first couple of months to overwhelming fatigue - again. But by mid-April I could train a bit again and I was running quite well in May. Despite not much training I was putting out good results - 10.36 for 3km, 18.36 for 5km, 22.50 at Jells Park - 6km. I was really happy with those results.
At the start of May I had my peak - two weeks in Traralgon for uni which were two of the best weeks of my life. We had a fun group staying there and did some interesting things. But I also did some fantastic running, particularly with Kathryn and the Traralgon Harriers. This culminated in a 27k long run, by myself around Traralgon.
The week after I came back to Melbourne I hurt my Achilles at Tuesday training. Sandown was 1.5 weeks away and Christchurch was 2.5 weeks away, more importantly. I nursed the Achilles to get through Sandown and it seemed to get better. However, when I warmed up for Sandown I had the most excruciating pain in my ribs. Usually my ribs are a bit sore while training but this pain was BAD. There was no way I could run for 38 or so minutes with that pain. So I watched Sandown to get ready for the more important Christchurch half marathon.
I had put a lot into Sandown - paying for my Dad and I to go there for 3 nights just so I could run a half marathon. Dad had never been overseas so it was a big trip. There was no way I could go there and not do the race. During the week between Sandown and Christchurch I was doing everything I could to make sure I got through the race. I did a run at uni on Wednesday and the rib pain was still there - argh! But we flew to Christchurch on the Friday night anyway. Dad and I spent Saturday sightseeing and I didn't really rest my legs because I wanted to make the most of the trip if the race didn't work out. However I ended up having a great race running 1h 27m 48s. I was very happy with that! I came 2nd in my age group and enjoyed the prize giving ceremony again.
After Christchurch I kept training hard and didn't have a rest. I did a session 2 days after a race and continued the long runs. Two weeks after the race I did a Sunday morning long run but was unhappy with only running - I think it was 20km. I just felt fatigued. So after babysitting during the day I did another 7k, but I felt a sharp pain in both my right foot and left knee. This knee pain ended up keeping me out for 6 weeks which felt like the end of the world.
At this time I also changed training groups which was a very hard thing to do. I thought I would never be able to replace my old group but my new group seems fantastic. If only I could do some training.
At the end of July I started back run/walk and by September managed a full week of training. But at the start of October I was pushing myself too much again and my right leg started to get injured. First it was a sore ITB. I also felt like I'd overstretched my hamstring at Bikram but the pain there didn't go away. I managed a 1 sec 1500m PB out of nowhere - 4.57. I was so happy to have my new coach and training group there to support me. But then my glute became very painful. I went to an unfamiliar sports doctor who thought a cortisone injection in the hip bursa would fix it. I got this done which didn't help and then went away to India for the rest of the year...
Friday, January 01, 2010
2010 goals
Running:
1. Stay uninjured
2. Run 3600-4000km for the year
3. Try and do 70-80km weeks consistently, maybe even go up to 100-110km/week
4. 20+km long run most weeks, try and do some Wednesday long runs as well (difficult during semester)
5. Try and do 3 speed sessions most weeks
6. Have a couple of fun run wins
7. Good results and prizes at Christchurch, Trentham, Sussan
Time Goals:
400m - 1.10 (1.08)
800m - 2.28 (2.25 - club record)
1500m - 4.52 (4.48)
3km - 10.30 (10.17 - club record)
Tan - 14.00 (13.45)
4km - 14.50 (14.30)
5km - 18.30 (18.00)
6km - 22.45 (22.00)
8km - 30.30 (30.00)
10km - 38.20 (38.00)
12km - 48.00 (47.00)
15km - 60.00 (59.30)
21.1km - 1.28 (1.26)
Other goals:
1000km cycling for the year
36.5km swimming for the year (100m per day average)
Do at least one session of core exercises, strength training, physio exercises per week
Stretch and get massages
Work 5-15 hours per week (up to 30 on holidays)
Pass year 1 and 2 medicine
1. Stay uninjured
2. Run 3600-4000km for the year
3. Try and do 70-80km weeks consistently, maybe even go up to 100-110km/week
4. 20+km long run most weeks, try and do some Wednesday long runs as well (difficult during semester)
5. Try and do 3 speed sessions most weeks
6. Have a couple of fun run wins
7. Good results and prizes at Christchurch, Trentham, Sussan
Time Goals:
400m - 1.10 (1.08)
800m - 2.28 (2.25 - club record)
1500m - 4.52 (4.48)
3km - 10.30 (10.17 - club record)
Tan - 14.00 (13.45)
4km - 14.50 (14.30)
5km - 18.30 (18.00)
6km - 22.45 (22.00)
8km - 30.30 (30.00)
10km - 38.20 (38.00)
12km - 48.00 (47.00)
15km - 60.00 (59.30)
21.1km - 1.28 (1.26)
Other goals:
1000km cycling for the year
36.5km swimming for the year (100m per day average)
Do at least one session of core exercises, strength training, physio exercises per week
Stretch and get massages
Work 5-15 hours per week (up to 30 on holidays)
Pass year 1 and 2 medicine
Wrap up of 2009 goals
Stats for the year:
Total km: 2815km in 235h 19m 36s (5.01/km) - 2008 1825km
Monthly kms:
Jan - 182
Feb - 192
Mar - 237
Apr - 230
May - 238
Jun - 216
Jul - 187
Aug - 263
Sep - 205
Oct - 247
Nov - 318
Dec - 300
Average 54km/week, 235/month
Highest week: 81km
Lowest week: 26km
Cycling - 450km - disappointing as well behind 1317km in 2008 and 850 in 2007
Swimming - 24km
Goals were 2500km running for the year (achieved), 60-80km weeks (achieved), 15km+ long run each week (achieved most weeks, towards the end of the year twice a week)
Time goals:
800m - PB 2.32 - didn't achieve sub 2.30
1500m - PB 4.58 - easily ACHIEVED sub 5.15 AND sub 5.05
3km - PB 10.48 - ACHIEVED sub 11.00 and almost sub 10.45
4km - didn't race
5km - PB 19.45 but should have achieved sub 19.00 and Sussan split was 19.10
6km - PB 24.33 should have achieved sub 24.00 and maybe even 23.00 in Sussan split
8km - didn't race
10km - PB 39.01 - easily ACHIEVED sub 40.00 AND sub 39.30!!!
12km - didn't race
15km - didn't race
21.1km - PB 89.48 - ACHIEVED sub 90.00
Other goals:
Didn't achieve 100km/month cycling or 4-5km/month swimming. Didn't do regular weight training or pilates. Did some regular stretching and massages. Not many rest weeks.
Didn't run Victorian Mountain Running Championships but did run Australian Mountain Running Championships with a win and a year ago I would not have thought in my wildest dreams that I would be running the WORLD MOUNTAIN RUNNING CHAMPIONSHIPS!!!
Didn't run a lot of the winter season but cemented my place in the top 2 Richmond women and started to push Marissa. Didn't run much U20 and certainly no podium places.
Went under 20, 40, 90 for 5k, 10k, half!!!!
Didn't make Vic team for National XC but didn't care because I made Aus Mountain Running team!!
Total km: 2815km in 235h 19m 36s (5.01/km) - 2008 1825km
Monthly kms:
Jan - 182
Feb - 192
Mar - 237
Apr - 230
May - 238
Jun - 216
Jul - 187
Aug - 263
Sep - 205
Oct - 247
Nov - 318
Dec - 300
Average 54km/week, 235/month
Highest week: 81km
Lowest week: 26km
Cycling - 450km - disappointing as well behind 1317km in 2008 and 850 in 2007
Swimming - 24km
Goals were 2500km running for the year (achieved), 60-80km weeks (achieved), 15km+ long run each week (achieved most weeks, towards the end of the year twice a week)
Time goals:
800m - PB 2.32 - didn't achieve sub 2.30
1500m - PB 4.58 - easily ACHIEVED sub 5.15 AND sub 5.05
3km - PB 10.48 - ACHIEVED sub 11.00 and almost sub 10.45
4km - didn't race
5km - PB 19.45 but should have achieved sub 19.00 and Sussan split was 19.10
6km - PB 24.33 should have achieved sub 24.00 and maybe even 23.00 in Sussan split
8km - didn't race
10km - PB 39.01 - easily ACHIEVED sub 40.00 AND sub 39.30!!!
12km - didn't race
15km - didn't race
21.1km - PB 89.48 - ACHIEVED sub 90.00
Other goals:
Didn't achieve 100km/month cycling or 4-5km/month swimming. Didn't do regular weight training or pilates. Did some regular stretching and massages. Not many rest weeks.
Didn't run Victorian Mountain Running Championships but did run Australian Mountain Running Championships with a win and a year ago I would not have thought in my wildest dreams that I would be running the WORLD MOUNTAIN RUNNING CHAMPIONSHIPS!!!
Didn't run a lot of the winter season but cemented my place in the top 2 Richmond women and started to push Marissa. Didn't run much U20 and certainly no podium places.
Went under 20, 40, 90 for 5k, 10k, half!!!!
Didn't make Vic team for National XC but didn't care because I made Aus Mountain Running team!!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
2009 goals.
Hard to know what to expect study and workwise as I don't know what I'll be studying this year.
Running wise.
Aim for an average of 40-50km per week. Which makes about 200k a month. So perhaps 2500k for the year. Try to get to 60k weeks, 80k at the most. Try and do at least 15k long run every week.
Time goals:
800m - 2.30 (2.25)
1500m - 5.15 (5.05)
3km - 11.00 (10.45)
4km - 15.20 (15.00)
5km - 19.30* (19.00)
6km - 24.00 (23.00)
8km - 32.00 (31.30)
10km - 40.00* (39.30)
12km - 50.00 (49.00)
15km - 62.00 (60.00)
21.1km - 90.00* (89.00)
*Run Victorian and Australian Mountain Running Championships
*Run a consistent winter season - try and get podium finishes in U20, remain in top 3 runners for Richmond
* Go under 20, 40, 90 respectively for 5k, 10k, half
** Make Victorian Cross Country team for nationals
Regular stretching and massages and rest weeks.
Cross training:
Keep up some regular swimming and cycling if possible. Also pilates and weight training.
Try to swim at least 4 or 5k per month. Try to cycle at least 100k per month.
Hard to know what to expect study and workwise as I don't know what I'll be studying this year.
Running wise.
Aim for an average of 40-50km per week. Which makes about 200k a month. So perhaps 2500k for the year. Try to get to 60k weeks, 80k at the most. Try and do at least 15k long run every week.
Time goals:
800m - 2.30 (2.25)
1500m - 5.15 (5.05)
3km - 11.00 (10.45)
4km - 15.20 (15.00)
5km - 19.30* (19.00)
6km - 24.00 (23.00)
8km - 32.00 (31.30)
10km - 40.00* (39.30)
12km - 50.00 (49.00)
15km - 62.00 (60.00)
21.1km - 90.00* (89.00)
*Run Victorian and Australian Mountain Running Championships
*Run a consistent winter season - try and get podium finishes in U20, remain in top 3 runners for Richmond
* Go under 20, 40, 90 respectively for 5k, 10k, half
** Make Victorian Cross Country team for nationals
Regular stretching and massages and rest weeks.
Cross training:
Keep up some regular swimming and cycling if possible. Also pilates and weight training.
Try to swim at least 4 or 5k per month. Try to cycle at least 100k per month.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Two milestones in a big week
I love annual mid year exam week! I had Monday and Tuesday off (which I spent working pretty hard), Biology exam Wednesday morning, Chemistry exam Thursday afternoon and the GAT exam yesterday morning. This leaves plenty of time for relaxing, running and cycling.
So: milestone 1 a 50km week! Previous best: 44km
Sunday - 18km long run at 5.30 pace
Tuesday - 10 x Airlie St with a couple of laps of the Tan 14km
Thursday - Fartlek 1 min on, 4 min off 11km
Saturday - Intervals 1000m, 750m, 500m, 500m, 500m, 500m with 250m recoveries 10km
Total: 53km!
Milestone 2: my 18th birthday on Wednesday
I didn't celebrate till yesterday when I had a lunch at Chi Wa Wa which lots of my friends came to. It was very nice.
Afterwards, I went to the pub with my 2 friends who I have known the longest, Tessa and Groundsie. We got our first cocktails and played pool. We got a lot of value out of our $2 pool game as we were total retards and kept missing. Then we went on the pokies. We played one game with $1 and were very unsuccessful and couldn't understand how to play. Then we got asked for ID and joked around with the owner. We tried another pokie machine and were a little more successful, winning 20 cents a couple of times and even $2.20 once. Then suddenly the screen flashed and told us we had won $233.34!!!!!!! We turned around and the owner was grinning at us - we thought he must have rigged it.
So we received $77.75 each, not bad at all for our first night 'out' as 18 year olds.
The money will help pay for my trip to the Gold Coast for the half marathon on July 6. I'm going up on the Friday afternoon, staying with Tim and Kate for 2 days, then staying with my cousins for another 2 days and coming back on the Tuesday. CAN'T WAIT!
So: milestone 1 a 50km week! Previous best: 44km
Sunday - 18km long run at 5.30 pace
Tuesday - 10 x Airlie St with a couple of laps of the Tan 14km
Thursday - Fartlek 1 min on, 4 min off 11km
Saturday - Intervals 1000m, 750m, 500m, 500m, 500m, 500m with 250m recoveries 10km
Total: 53km!
Milestone 2: my 18th birthday on Wednesday
I didn't celebrate till yesterday when I had a lunch at Chi Wa Wa which lots of my friends came to. It was very nice.
Afterwards, I went to the pub with my 2 friends who I have known the longest, Tessa and Groundsie. We got our first cocktails and played pool. We got a lot of value out of our $2 pool game as we were total retards and kept missing. Then we went on the pokies. We played one game with $1 and were very unsuccessful and couldn't understand how to play. Then we got asked for ID and joked around with the owner. We tried another pokie machine and were a little more successful, winning 20 cents a couple of times and even $2.20 once. Then suddenly the screen flashed and told us we had won $233.34!!!!!!! We turned around and the owner was grinning at us - we thought he must have rigged it.
So we received $77.75 each, not bad at all for our first night 'out' as 18 year olds.
The money will help pay for my trip to the Gold Coast for the half marathon on July 6. I'm going up on the Friday afternoon, staying with Tim and Kate for 2 days, then staying with my cousins for another 2 days and coming back on the Tuesday. CAN'T WAIT!
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Latrobe 15km
I wasn't sure about this race. Should I have a real crack at it? What time should I aim for? Should I treat it as a long run and add a few k's on at the end? Should I just take it easy?
When I decided to go for a 45km bike ride yesterday I confirmed that I would not being having a real crack at this race. I don't know why I felt like taking it easy, possibly because it's not a distance I race very often so I didn't know what to aim for and so didn't have any goals.
This morning I woke up and felt like I had already done the run. I just felt generally tired. I would see how it went.
I arrived at Latrobe and just wanted to get started. My dad took me so I couldn't wander around talking to people because I didn't want to make him too bored because he had to wait through a 15km race. After catching up with a few people on the start line we got started. I wanted to run at 4.10 pace (was feeling comfortable) but I knew I wouldn't be able to sustain it for 15km. The hills at the start of each lap were hard but it was entertaining seeing everyone in the dog leg. The rest of the race was really boring, just pounding the asphalt. I felt like I was coming last because there were so few people around.
My splits were:
4.26, 4.10, 4.28, 4.22, 4.06, 4.32, 4.30, 4.31, 4.22, 4.15, 4.35, 4.25, 4.34, 4.26, 4.09.
Not very consistent.
1km - 4.26
2km - 8.36
3km - 13:05 (this time last year that was a new PB)
4km - 17.27
5km - 21.34 (my PB is 21.07)
6km - 26.07 (my PB is 25.40)
7km - 30.37
8km - 35.08 (only 5 seconds off my PB!)
9km - 39.31
10km - 43.46
11km - 48.22
12km - 52.48
13km - 57.22
14km - 61.48
15km - 66.00
I reached the halfway point after 33 minutes so I actually ran 2 even halves, VERY unusual for me! Very surprising considering I was dying from the start.
I once again made the division 1 team which I thought is a bad thing for the health of the club but we actually came 4th!
I kinda wish I'd done the 5km as I reckon I would have been good for 3rd place in the U20s.
The next race is the Coliban relays and I can't believe I have to wait a whole month. We are going to have a great Div 1 team - probably me, Marissa, Penny, Fiona and Karen.
When I decided to go for a 45km bike ride yesterday I confirmed that I would not being having a real crack at this race. I don't know why I felt like taking it easy, possibly because it's not a distance I race very often so I didn't know what to aim for and so didn't have any goals.
This morning I woke up and felt like I had already done the run. I just felt generally tired. I would see how it went.
I arrived at Latrobe and just wanted to get started. My dad took me so I couldn't wander around talking to people because I didn't want to make him too bored because he had to wait through a 15km race. After catching up with a few people on the start line we got started. I wanted to run at 4.10 pace (was feeling comfortable) but I knew I wouldn't be able to sustain it for 15km. The hills at the start of each lap were hard but it was entertaining seeing everyone in the dog leg. The rest of the race was really boring, just pounding the asphalt. I felt like I was coming last because there were so few people around.
My splits were:
4.26, 4.10, 4.28, 4.22, 4.06, 4.32, 4.30, 4.31, 4.22, 4.15, 4.35, 4.25, 4.34, 4.26, 4.09.
Not very consistent.
1km - 4.26
2km - 8.36
3km - 13:05 (this time last year that was a new PB)
4km - 17.27
5km - 21.34 (my PB is 21.07)
6km - 26.07 (my PB is 25.40)
7km - 30.37
8km - 35.08 (only 5 seconds off my PB!)
9km - 39.31
10km - 43.46
11km - 48.22
12km - 52.48
13km - 57.22
14km - 61.48
15km - 66.00
I reached the halfway point after 33 minutes so I actually ran 2 even halves, VERY unusual for me! Very surprising considering I was dying from the start.
I once again made the division 1 team which I thought is a bad thing for the health of the club but we actually came 4th!
I kinda wish I'd done the 5km as I reckon I would have been good for 3rd place in the U20s.
The next race is the Coliban relays and I can't believe I have to wait a whole month. We are going to have a great Div 1 team - probably me, Marissa, Penny, Fiona and Karen.
Friday, May 30, 2008
GSV Champ Carnival today
We left school at 9.30 to get to the Championship carnival at Bundoora park. I had to hang out with the year 10's because there are no year 12's and the year 11's were coming later after exams. I thought I would be really bored because my race wasn't till 1pm but it was pretty fun.
The juniors had their race at 11am and did ok. We only had one placegetter in our division. We had a bit of excitement when our tent blew over and snapped. We had to fold it back down which was hard with broken pieces of metal sticking out.
The intermediates had their race at 12pm and I didn't want to hang out with the juniors so I went and cheered for the inters up the back. I could cheer for them twice on each lap. Penny was winning by a massive margin which is fantastic because there were some extremely amazing girls out there.
The year 11's arrived and it was finally time for our race. I decided I really wanted to come in the top 10 because the top 10 got medals! But when we started I realised how hard that would be. I was probably in about 50th place after 200m but then I overtook dozens of girls going up the hill on the first lap. I counted at the top of the hill (about 1km mark) and I was in about 14th-15th place. I didn't think I would be able to overtake anyone to get into the top 10. However, I just concentrated on picking off the next girl, something which I don't often do. It was really hard going. I hate running on grass and it is grass almost the whole way. I just feel really unco. At the end of the first lap my time was 7.35 so I realised why I was feeling so tired. On the hill on the second lap I picked off another girl, who beat me in the preliminary carnival. I thought she'd chase me down but she didn't. I managed to get in front of another couple of girls and I thought I was probably in 11th or 12th place. However, when I rounded the final bend everyone was yelling "you're coming 10th" so I sprinted to the finish, not wanting to be overtaken.
I came in with a time of 15.44. I was kinda hoping to get closer to 15.30 but there's always next time. I really hoped I did come 10th. I pretty much died at the finish, I don't think I could have gone any harder. I have to say this was one of the hardest races I've ever done. Everyone else seemed to be feeling that too, many girls were collapsed on the grass afterwards.
We packed up everything and headed over to the presentations. Firstly they presented the top 10 girls in each division (we were in division 2). Mandy came in about 24th place overall so we were really hoping she got in the top 10 for division 2. My hopes were fading when she didn't come 10th, 9th, 8th or 7th but then her name was announced for 6th place! I wasn't sure what I came in division 2, possibly 2nd because I thought a Tintern girl came in front of me. My name was announced as first place though! We had to have our photo taken individually with our ribbons and then as a group - the top 10 for division 2 while the division 1 winners were announced. Then the overall winners were announced. As expected I came in 10th place! So I got a lovely medal. We each had more photos taken with our medals, then as a group of the overall top 10, then as a big group with the top 10 from each division. Finally we were able to go and sit back down with our schools.
Unfortunately my school came 7th in division 2, but we think that might be incorrect.
I'm very sad that this was my last ever school cross country but I had a really great day.
The juniors had their race at 11am and did ok. We only had one placegetter in our division. We had a bit of excitement when our tent blew over and snapped. We had to fold it back down which was hard with broken pieces of metal sticking out.
The intermediates had their race at 12pm and I didn't want to hang out with the juniors so I went and cheered for the inters up the back. I could cheer for them twice on each lap. Penny was winning by a massive margin which is fantastic because there were some extremely amazing girls out there.
The year 11's arrived and it was finally time for our race. I decided I really wanted to come in the top 10 because the top 10 got medals! But when we started I realised how hard that would be. I was probably in about 50th place after 200m but then I overtook dozens of girls going up the hill on the first lap. I counted at the top of the hill (about 1km mark) and I was in about 14th-15th place. I didn't think I would be able to overtake anyone to get into the top 10. However, I just concentrated on picking off the next girl, something which I don't often do. It was really hard going. I hate running on grass and it is grass almost the whole way. I just feel really unco. At the end of the first lap my time was 7.35 so I realised why I was feeling so tired. On the hill on the second lap I picked off another girl, who beat me in the preliminary carnival. I thought she'd chase me down but she didn't. I managed to get in front of another couple of girls and I thought I was probably in 11th or 12th place. However, when I rounded the final bend everyone was yelling "you're coming 10th" so I sprinted to the finish, not wanting to be overtaken.
I came in with a time of 15.44. I was kinda hoping to get closer to 15.30 but there's always next time. I really hoped I did come 10th. I pretty much died at the finish, I don't think I could have gone any harder. I have to say this was one of the hardest races I've ever done. Everyone else seemed to be feeling that too, many girls were collapsed on the grass afterwards.
We packed up everything and headed over to the presentations. Firstly they presented the top 10 girls in each division (we were in division 2). Mandy came in about 24th place overall so we were really hoping she got in the top 10 for division 2. My hopes were fading when she didn't come 10th, 9th, 8th or 7th but then her name was announced for 6th place! I wasn't sure what I came in division 2, possibly 2nd because I thought a Tintern girl came in front of me. My name was announced as first place though! We had to have our photo taken individually with our ribbons and then as a group - the top 10 for division 2 while the division 1 winners were announced. Then the overall winners were announced. As expected I came in 10th place! So I got a lovely medal. We each had more photos taken with our medals, then as a group of the overall top 10, then as a big group with the top 10 from each division. Finally we were able to go and sit back down with our schools.
Unfortunately my school came 7th in division 2, but we think that might be incorrect.
I'm very sad that this was my last ever school cross country but I had a really great day.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
GSV Championship Carnival
Tomorrow is the GSV Championship carnival. The 24 girls schools are divided into 3 divisions based on the results from the preliminary carnival. We are in division 2, as usual. I'm secretly hoping we could win division 2.
In my race I am up against 10 year 11s and 12s from each of the 24 schools - so 240 people. The results are counted as overall results and as a result from the division you are in. So you get an overall place, and a place in division 1, 2 or 3.
My goals/predictions for the race are:
Estimated time: 15.45 - 16.00
Ultimate time: 15.30
Macmillans says: 15.45
I'd love to come in the top 10 overall, hopefully the top 5 in division 2.
In my race I am up against 10 year 11s and 12s from each of the 24 schools - so 240 people. The results are counted as overall results and as a result from the division you are in. So you get an overall place, and a place in division 1, 2 or 3.
My goals/predictions for the race are:
Estimated time: 15.45 - 16.00
Ultimate time: 15.30
Macmillans says: 15.45
I'd love to come in the top 10 overall, hopefully the top 5 in division 2.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Cross country
Yesterday I had the GSV preliminary carnival and today I had house cross country at school.
GSV cross country was at Yarra Bend and the course is 4km. We compete against 7 other schools and each school is supposed to have 10 girls (from year 11 and 12) competing. We had only 6 and Lauriston surely had around 20. So it is hard to know how many girls I was up against in total. I was hoping for a time of around 16 minutes but had to factor in residual soreness from Saturday and Sunday's racing. We watched the juniors and inters run before us. We had a couple of good results but a couple of not so good results.
Straight after the inters finished their race we had to line up for ours. I hadn't even warmed up properly when we had to start. Surprisingly there was a lot of room on the start line. When the gun went everyone sprinted off and I found myself momentarily in about 30th place! I knew the upcoming hill would sort everyone out though. At the bottom of the hill I was probably in about 10th place but I picked lots of girls off. At about 500m I was behind 3 Genazzano girls (one of whom was about 50m ahead), Mandy and a couple of other girls. I passed Mandy and two Genazzano girls and ended up second, behind a girl I race a lot. I stayed in second for the rest of the first lap. At the start of the second lap I could hear a Firbank girl (wiuth really freaky muscles) was coming up behind me. She eventually overtook me and then the girl in front. In the last 500m I tried to overtake the Genazzano girl who was now second but I didn't have a sprint in me. I ended up in 3rd place in a time of 16.19. I wasn't so happy with the time but I can be very happy with 3rd place. I underestimated how much grass slows the pace. Mandy ended up in 5th place. I received my ribbon at the presentation. As a school we didn't do that well, coming in 5th.
Today the 6 of us who did GSV cross country had to back up with house cross country. House cross country was supposed to be on 3 weeks ago but got cancelled when it rained. So as part of senior house sport, 10 girls from each house had to compete in the 3km event. We eventually got down there and after waiting for ages we started. Once again I wasn't warmed up properly and once again I ended up quite far back as everyone sprinted off. Mandy was ahead of me again but I overtook her after about 400m. By the 1km mark I had opened up quite a big gap. My time at the halfway point was 5.29 so I knew I was up for a good time. I looked behind me a couple of times and couldn't see Mandy. I just had to hold on to win. I finished in a time of 11.32 which I'm very happy with. Mandy came in a minute after me but she had got a bit lost. I'm so happy to win the last ever house cross country, and I think I broke the record of 12.13.
My results in house cross country 2004-2008.
2004 31st unknown time
2005 16th 15.03
2006 9th 13.53
2007 2nd 13.03
2008 1st 11.32
So it's fantastic to see the improvement across the years.
GSV cross country was at Yarra Bend and the course is 4km. We compete against 7 other schools and each school is supposed to have 10 girls (from year 11 and 12) competing. We had only 6 and Lauriston surely had around 20. So it is hard to know how many girls I was up against in total. I was hoping for a time of around 16 minutes but had to factor in residual soreness from Saturday and Sunday's racing. We watched the juniors and inters run before us. We had a couple of good results but a couple of not so good results.
Straight after the inters finished their race we had to line up for ours. I hadn't even warmed up properly when we had to start. Surprisingly there was a lot of room on the start line. When the gun went everyone sprinted off and I found myself momentarily in about 30th place! I knew the upcoming hill would sort everyone out though. At the bottom of the hill I was probably in about 10th place but I picked lots of girls off. At about 500m I was behind 3 Genazzano girls (one of whom was about 50m ahead), Mandy and a couple of other girls. I passed Mandy and two Genazzano girls and ended up second, behind a girl I race a lot. I stayed in second for the rest of the first lap. At the start of the second lap I could hear a Firbank girl (wiuth really freaky muscles) was coming up behind me. She eventually overtook me and then the girl in front. In the last 500m I tried to overtake the Genazzano girl who was now second but I didn't have a sprint in me. I ended up in 3rd place in a time of 16.19. I wasn't so happy with the time but I can be very happy with 3rd place. I underestimated how much grass slows the pace. Mandy ended up in 5th place. I received my ribbon at the presentation. As a school we didn't do that well, coming in 5th.
Today the 6 of us who did GSV cross country had to back up with house cross country. House cross country was supposed to be on 3 weeks ago but got cancelled when it rained. So as part of senior house sport, 10 girls from each house had to compete in the 3km event. We eventually got down there and after waiting for ages we started. Once again I wasn't warmed up properly and once again I ended up quite far back as everyone sprinted off. Mandy was ahead of me again but I overtook her after about 400m. By the 1km mark I had opened up quite a big gap. My time at the halfway point was 5.29 so I knew I was up for a good time. I looked behind me a couple of times and couldn't see Mandy. I just had to hold on to win. I finished in a time of 11.32 which I'm very happy with. Mandy came in a minute after me but she had got a bit lost. I'm so happy to win the last ever house cross country, and I think I broke the record of 12.13.
My results in house cross country 2004-2008.
2004 31st unknown time
2005 16th 15.03
2006 9th 13.53
2007 2nd 13.03
2008 1st 11.32
So it's fantastic to see the improvement across the years.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Coburg Fun Run
After Sandown on Saturday I didn't think I would ever be able to run again. Nevertheless I got up early and headed to Coburg for the monthly fun run. I like the Coburg runs, mainly because Dad lets me drive all the way home (it takes at least 45 minutes). And the trophies are interesting.
We arrived at 8.55 because the Domain Tunnel was closed and we had to take the long way. It didn't matter, all I had to do was fill out an entry form a do a quick jog. I didn't feel too sore. I decided I would just try and run at a decent pace but not push it too much. It was wet underfoot but not raining luckily.
My splits were
4.15
4.21
4.26
4.20
4.26
4.12
for a time of 26.01. That's a Coburg PB (my presvious best being 26.30) so it wasn't a bad time but I couldn't help thinking it was 90 seconds slower than my 6km split at Sandown. Doesn't matter. I came first amongst the females again, for the 4th time this year (out of 4). I hope for a bit more competition in the second half of the year.
In Sandown results I came 51st in AV females (not bad!) AND OUR DIVISION ONE TEAM (which I was a part of for the second time in my career) CAME 5TH!!
We arrived at 8.55 because the Domain Tunnel was closed and we had to take the long way. It didn't matter, all I had to do was fill out an entry form a do a quick jog. I didn't feel too sore. I decided I would just try and run at a decent pace but not push it too much. It was wet underfoot but not raining luckily.
My splits were
4.15
4.21
4.26
4.20
4.26
4.12
for a time of 26.01. That's a Coburg PB (my presvious best being 26.30) so it wasn't a bad time but I couldn't help thinking it was 90 seconds slower than my 6km split at Sandown. Doesn't matter. I came first amongst the females again, for the 4th time this year (out of 4). I hope for a bit more competition in the second half of the year.
In Sandown results I came 51st in AV females (not bad!) AND OUR DIVISION ONE TEAM (which I was a part of for the second time in my career) CAME 5TH!!
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Uhh...
Ummmm I made a bit of a joke of my 'running goals' today, beating 6 of them (in splits). These were supposed to be my goals for the whole year!! But I can't see myself running those times regularly.
My last 10km - the Sussan fun run in December last year - I ran in a time of 49.42, so I have taken 8 minutes, 42 seconds off that time! That was a hot day and after I had been very sick for 2 or 3 months though.
My last 10km - the Sussan fun run in December last year - I ran in a time of 49.42, so I have taken 8 minutes, 42 seconds off that time! That was a hot day and after I had been very sick for 2 or 3 months though.
Sandown
Forecast for today... showers, possibly hail and a top of 13. My thoughts: maybe only a small PB is on the cards. When we got there is was raining and freeeeeezing. I went for a warm up lap and got very wet but a bit warmer. After painstakingly taking off our million layers of clothes, we headed over to the start line. Luckily the girls were able to huddle in alcoves before the start, I don't think the guys had the same luxury.
We started and I got a pretty good start because I stayed on the outside and could go around people. It's a good start because the course is wide so there's plenty of room. I was surprised to do the first km in 3.46, thinking it would be more like 4.30. I thought I'd better slow down a little because if I went out that hard at the start I would pay for it later. Surprisingly, I was able to keep the around 4 min/km pace. I broke all my PBs along the way except 1km (although I can't say I have a 7km or 9km PB). It was wet and cold. I thought my shoes were breaking because they were so wet they were squelching. At the end of the second lap Tim Crosbie passed me - so much for running 45/46 minutes!!! I managed to continue to keep the amazing pace, and even had some left in the tank in the last 2km. The last 200m is soooo hard, the straight is so long! I CANNOT BELIEVE I CAN NOW RUN 10KM IN 41 MINUTES! I don't know my exact time as I didn't know where the finish line was.
So my time is 4.06min/km (WOW!) which is faster than I thought I could run for 3km. It is 3.45 off my old PB (which I was happy with). It is 6.12 faster than what I ran last year (which I was very happy with at the time).
Splits:
1km - 3.46
2km - 7.49
3km - 11.56
4km - 15.57
5km - 20.15
6km - 24.30
7km - 28.47?
8km - 32.42
9km - 37.00
10km 41.00
I got run of the day out of the female Richmond runners.
Lots of other people got FANTASTIC PBs as well, in particular Marissa and Fiona, Tony, Em and Michael.
We started and I got a pretty good start because I stayed on the outside and could go around people. It's a good start because the course is wide so there's plenty of room. I was surprised to do the first km in 3.46, thinking it would be more like 4.30. I thought I'd better slow down a little because if I went out that hard at the start I would pay for it later. Surprisingly, I was able to keep the around 4 min/km pace. I broke all my PBs along the way except 1km (although I can't say I have a 7km or 9km PB). It was wet and cold. I thought my shoes were breaking because they were so wet they were squelching. At the end of the second lap Tim Crosbie passed me - so much for running 45/46 minutes!!! I managed to continue to keep the amazing pace, and even had some left in the tank in the last 2km. The last 200m is soooo hard, the straight is so long! I CANNOT BELIEVE I CAN NOW RUN 10KM IN 41 MINUTES! I don't know my exact time as I didn't know where the finish line was.
So my time is 4.06min/km (WOW!) which is faster than I thought I could run for 3km. It is 3.45 off my old PB (which I was happy with). It is 6.12 faster than what I ran last year (which I was very happy with at the time).
Splits:
1km - 3.46
2km - 7.49
3km - 11.56
4km - 15.57
5km - 20.15
6km - 24.30
7km - 28.47?
8km - 32.42
9km - 37.00
10km 41.00
I got run of the day out of the female Richmond runners.
Lots of other people got FANTASTIC PBs as well, in particular Marissa and Fiona, Tony, Em and Michael.
Friday, May 16, 2008
4 races in 5 days
Starting tomorrow I have 4 races in 5 days:
Saturday 17th May - AV Sandown 10km
Predicted time: sub 44:00
Ultimate time: 43:00
McMillans says: around 43:40
Sunday 18th May - Coburg Fun Run 6km
(Not really a race - more of a casual run)
Predicted time: 26:30-27:30
Would like to come in the top 2 females
Tuesday 20th May - GSV Preliminary Carnival (School) 4km
Predicted time: 16:30
Ultimate time: 15:30
McMillans says: around 16:28
Would like to come in the top 10 (Out of 8 schools, 10 runners each)
Wednesday 21st May - House cross country 3km
Predicted time: 12:10
Ultimate time: 11:50
MacMillans says: 12:03
Current record: 12:13
One goal - to win
Saturday 17th May - AV Sandown 10km
Predicted time: sub 44:00
Ultimate time: 43:00
McMillans says: around 43:40
Sunday 18th May - Coburg Fun Run 6km
(Not really a race - more of a casual run)
Predicted time: 26:30-27:30
Would like to come in the top 2 females
Tuesday 20th May - GSV Preliminary Carnival (School) 4km
Predicted time: 16:30
Ultimate time: 15:30
McMillans says: around 16:28
Would like to come in the top 10 (Out of 8 schools, 10 runners each)
Wednesday 21st May - House cross country 3km
Predicted time: 12:10
Ultimate time: 11:50
MacMillans says: 12:03
Current record: 12:13
One goal - to win
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Recent races
Puffing Billy Great Train Race 4th May 2008
After a late night out I woke up early, ready to be picked up by Karen and driven to Camberwell station. I was surprised to see Jeff and Nikki, my other teammates in Karen's car when she picked me up. When we arrived at the station, who did we spot but Ali and her hubby Trevor. Ali, Karen and I always do the big races together and Karen and I didn't even know Ali was running! It's the first time Ali and Trevor have done a race together. The train ride to Belgrave was very long and we were all busting by the time we got to Belgrave. Luckily, the others knew the toilets on the Puffing Billy station would be less crowded and we hardly had to queue at all. We then walked up the hill and put our bags in the truck. I didn't even get a chance to warm up because we went straight to the start line. I was fortunate to get a relatively good starting position.
The first couple of hundred of metres were hard, because lots of idiots can't self seed. It didn't take too long to get out into a clear spot.
My splits for the race were:
4.27
4.23
4.35
4.16
4.10
5.09
6.01 (waiting for the train at the crossing)
4.23
4.32
4.38
4.26
4.10
3.55
I thought the hills would be far harder than they were. I held back, waiting for some big steep hills. The hills weren't at all steep, just long. I powered up them and passed plenty of people. Early on I spotted a girl who I know is under 18 and extremely good at running. I passed her on the hill up to Menzies Creek. I had to stop at the Menzies Creek crossing for a minute or two which was extremely annoying. It also allowed my nemesis to catch up. She overtook me on an extreme downhill and was in front of me by about 50-100m. However, on the last uphill I overtook her again. I the last few kilometres I was very confused as I could hear a train and I thought we were trying to race the train to the crossing. I was extremely surprised to realise that we were on the last downhill to the finish. Where were those hills? I managed to stay in front of my nemesis and finish in a time of 59:10 which I am happy with for a first try. I had easily beaten the ladies train but not the mens train.
I grabbed a bottle of Powerade and found my bag easily. I was unsure of what to do next but I ended up just standing around chatting to Lincoln. By the time the presentation started I had found my team and Ali and Trevor. I half listened to the presentations (with a faint hope of success in the U18 category). After the presentation we headed to the buses and waited 45 minutes on the bus to leave the lake area. I was worried because Dad was waiting at Belgrave and I hate for him to wait so long. I finally got to Belgrave and found Dad and said goodbye to the others.
Yesterday morning I received a text from Karen saying I had won the U18 section!!!!! I was very excited, as this was probably my last fun run as a junior. I jumped on the internet and confirmed the result. I must have missed them announcing my name at the presentation as I heard the name of the U18 male winner being called. I also came 21st out of 850 females which is pretty cool!
I will definitely do this race again next year, I had a great time.
Jells Park relays 19th April 2008
Round one of the AV Season is finally here.
I got chosen to run first in the Division 3 team. It's a 3km course, with the open course being 2 x 3km.
I got there really early, as Alison drove me. Only Moose and Bill were there when I arrived. Slowly everyone else started filtering in. I went for a warm up jog around the whole course with Petrina and Sharon. My legs were soooooooooo sore after house athletics the day before (I'm sure it was the 400m) and I thought my hamstrings would snap. I thought we were almost finished our warm up lap just after 2kms, but then I realised the course goes up the hill and back down!
By the time we'd finished our warm up it was nearly time to start. I found my place on the Div 3 line. I tried to start conservatively but I found myself in front of Ann who had a 10m head start and is far faster than me. I wasn't ahead of her for too long though. I completed the first lap in 12.38. I thought I'd get a major positive split on the second lap but I was comfortable so I just kept powering on (despite the extremely sore hamstrings). I expected to absolutely die on the hill at the end of the 2nd lap but I was ok. I powered down the hill to the finish and spotted Lavinia. I ended up finishing in a time of 25.42, a new 6km PB. I couldn't believe I got a PB because my legs were dead and because it was a hilly course.
I spent the rest of the afternoon chatting to friends, cheering on teammates and just watching all the different runners. Of course, the appearance by Craig Mottram was a highlight. A very fun day, I'm so glad the winter season is on!
After a late night out I woke up early, ready to be picked up by Karen and driven to Camberwell station. I was surprised to see Jeff and Nikki, my other teammates in Karen's car when she picked me up. When we arrived at the station, who did we spot but Ali and her hubby Trevor. Ali, Karen and I always do the big races together and Karen and I didn't even know Ali was running! It's the first time Ali and Trevor have done a race together. The train ride to Belgrave was very long and we were all busting by the time we got to Belgrave. Luckily, the others knew the toilets on the Puffing Billy station would be less crowded and we hardly had to queue at all. We then walked up the hill and put our bags in the truck. I didn't even get a chance to warm up because we went straight to the start line. I was fortunate to get a relatively good starting position.
The first couple of hundred of metres were hard, because lots of idiots can't self seed. It didn't take too long to get out into a clear spot.
My splits for the race were:
4.27
4.23
4.35
4.16
4.10
5.09
6.01 (waiting for the train at the crossing)
4.23
4.32
4.38
4.26
4.10
3.55
I thought the hills would be far harder than they were. I held back, waiting for some big steep hills. The hills weren't at all steep, just long. I powered up them and passed plenty of people. Early on I spotted a girl who I know is under 18 and extremely good at running. I passed her on the hill up to Menzies Creek. I had to stop at the Menzies Creek crossing for a minute or two which was extremely annoying. It also allowed my nemesis to catch up. She overtook me on an extreme downhill and was in front of me by about 50-100m. However, on the last uphill I overtook her again. I the last few kilometres I was very confused as I could hear a train and I thought we were trying to race the train to the crossing. I was extremely surprised to realise that we were on the last downhill to the finish. Where were those hills? I managed to stay in front of my nemesis and finish in a time of 59:10 which I am happy with for a first try. I had easily beaten the ladies train but not the mens train.
I grabbed a bottle of Powerade and found my bag easily. I was unsure of what to do next but I ended up just standing around chatting to Lincoln. By the time the presentation started I had found my team and Ali and Trevor. I half listened to the presentations (with a faint hope of success in the U18 category). After the presentation we headed to the buses and waited 45 minutes on the bus to leave the lake area. I was worried because Dad was waiting at Belgrave and I hate for him to wait so long. I finally got to Belgrave and found Dad and said goodbye to the others.
Yesterday morning I received a text from Karen saying I had won the U18 section!!!!! I was very excited, as this was probably my last fun run as a junior. I jumped on the internet and confirmed the result. I must have missed them announcing my name at the presentation as I heard the name of the U18 male winner being called. I also came 21st out of 850 females which is pretty cool!
I will definitely do this race again next year, I had a great time.
Jells Park relays 19th April 2008
Round one of the AV Season is finally here.
I got chosen to run first in the Division 3 team. It's a 3km course, with the open course being 2 x 3km.
I got there really early, as Alison drove me. Only Moose and Bill were there when I arrived. Slowly everyone else started filtering in. I went for a warm up jog around the whole course with Petrina and Sharon. My legs were soooooooooo sore after house athletics the day before (I'm sure it was the 400m) and I thought my hamstrings would snap. I thought we were almost finished our warm up lap just after 2kms, but then I realised the course goes up the hill and back down!
By the time we'd finished our warm up it was nearly time to start. I found my place on the Div 3 line. I tried to start conservatively but I found myself in front of Ann who had a 10m head start and is far faster than me. I wasn't ahead of her for too long though. I completed the first lap in 12.38. I thought I'd get a major positive split on the second lap but I was comfortable so I just kept powering on (despite the extremely sore hamstrings). I expected to absolutely die on the hill at the end of the 2nd lap but I was ok. I powered down the hill to the finish and spotted Lavinia. I ended up finishing in a time of 25.42, a new 6km PB. I couldn't believe I got a PB because my legs were dead and because it was a hilly course.
I spent the rest of the afternoon chatting to friends, cheering on teammates and just watching all the different runners. Of course, the appearance by Craig Mottram was a highlight. A very fun day, I'm so glad the winter season is on!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Last ever house athletics
Today was the last ever house athletics for us year 12's and my first ever time actually doing events.
I did 800m
I was in senior (yr 11 and 12) and there were 12 of us in the race.
I came first by quite a margin in a time of 2.51 (it's on grass though)
My teammate Mandy came 2nd. I started off behind her, came level with her thinking we could just run together but I felt strong so I passed her at about halfway.
400m
I was in yr 12 division 1 (2nd division after championship)
There were 6 in the race and I came first
I was running in the outside lane and expected everyone to overtake me but they were quite far behind.
I should have run Championship division because my time was better than the winning time (another teammate - Mel).
I ran 1.20.63 (it's on grass!)
1500m
I was in open (so all year levels) and there were 12 girls in the race
Penny, Grace and I led the whole way and lapped most of the other competitors. It was really a race of 3. I came 3rd (almost caught up to Grace) and my teammate Penny won (of course).
My time was 5.46 which isn't too bad considering it's on grass.
The grass is really annoyed because it's really spongy and uneven. The oval is 270m so 400m is 1 and a bit laps, 800m is almost 3 laps and 1500m is 5 and a bit laps.
I also did the wheel relay (3rd) and tunnel ball (4th). I missed out on crossball because of the 400m!
We came 4th as a house (out of 6) which is a bit disappointing. Hardly any year 10's turned up for us. We came 2nd in senior and junior but last in intermediate.
It was a great last sports day.
I did 800m
I was in senior (yr 11 and 12) and there were 12 of us in the race.
I came first by quite a margin in a time of 2.51 (it's on grass though)
My teammate Mandy came 2nd. I started off behind her, came level with her thinking we could just run together but I felt strong so I passed her at about halfway.
400m
I was in yr 12 division 1 (2nd division after championship)
There were 6 in the race and I came first
I was running in the outside lane and expected everyone to overtake me but they were quite far behind.
I should have run Championship division because my time was better than the winning time (another teammate - Mel).
I ran 1.20.63 (it's on grass!)
1500m
I was in open (so all year levels) and there were 12 girls in the race
Penny, Grace and I led the whole way and lapped most of the other competitors. It was really a race of 3. I came 3rd (almost caught up to Grace) and my teammate Penny won (of course).
My time was 5.46 which isn't too bad considering it's on grass.
The grass is really annoyed because it's really spongy and uneven. The oval is 270m so 400m is 1 and a bit laps, 800m is almost 3 laps and 1500m is 5 and a bit laps.
I also did the wheel relay (3rd) and tunnel ball (4th). I missed out on crossball because of the 400m!
We came 4th as a house (out of 6) which is a bit disappointing. Hardly any year 10's turned up for us. We came 2nd in senior and junior but last in intermediate.
It was a great last sports day.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Races - last 2 months
January and February is very quiet for races (which in some ways is a relief) but I still managed to fit in quite a few.
Coburg Fun Run January 20th
6km 28:17
It was very rainy and so the course was changed to a 4km loop course. It is suspected that the course was actually longer than 6km.
I came first in the females.
Flemington River Run February 3rd
8km 36:41
I had three goals for this race: to get a PB, to finish in the top 10 women, and to win my age group.
I didn't get a PB, but I was the 7th female and I won my age group.
My splits were:
Splits:
1km 4.14
2km 8.25 (4.11)
3km 13.03 (4.38)
4km 18.04 (5.01)
5km 23.05 (5.01)
6km 27.24 (4.19)
7km 32.03 (4.39)
8km 36.41 (4.38)
So they were extremely inconsistent. If I hadn't gone out too fast I might have had a chance for a PB.
I was running on my own most of the way, although there were plenty of non-racers running along the path. When I finished I was given a spot prize voucher, probably because I was the only one to come in for about 20 seconds. My spot prize was a skincare and footcare pack. Not as nice as some Brooks shoes but better than nothing.
Coburg Fun Run February 17th
6km 26:27 - PB!
It was quite a warm morning so it was a hard run. We went back to the usual 6km route. I was the first female again. The trophy was a soccer trophy - random!
Coburg Fun Run March 16th
6km 26:47
I was really itching to get out and race because my training is looking very good and I wanted to go under 26 minutes. Unfortunately the weather was very hot, about 25 degrees or more. It was a hard run again. I was on track for a massive PB but the last 3 minutes or so were extremely tough and I really let it go. Not a bad time considering and there's always next time. I was the first female again.
Races coming up over the next month or so:
Run for the Kids (Sunday)
Richmond/Malvern Challenge (Saturday 5th April)
House athletics
House cross country
Jells Park relays
Coburg Fun Run January 20th
6km 28:17
It was very rainy and so the course was changed to a 4km loop course. It is suspected that the course was actually longer than 6km.
I came first in the females.
Flemington River Run February 3rd
8km 36:41
I had three goals for this race: to get a PB, to finish in the top 10 women, and to win my age group.
I didn't get a PB, but I was the 7th female and I won my age group.
My splits were:
Splits:
1km 4.14
2km 8.25 (4.11)
3km 13.03 (4.38)
4km 18.04 (5.01)
5km 23.05 (5.01)
6km 27.24 (4.19)
7km 32.03 (4.39)
8km 36.41 (4.38)
So they were extremely inconsistent. If I hadn't gone out too fast I might have had a chance for a PB.
I was running on my own most of the way, although there were plenty of non-racers running along the path. When I finished I was given a spot prize voucher, probably because I was the only one to come in for about 20 seconds. My spot prize was a skincare and footcare pack. Not as nice as some Brooks shoes but better than nothing.
Coburg Fun Run February 17th
6km 26:27 - PB!
It was quite a warm morning so it was a hard run. We went back to the usual 6km route. I was the first female again. The trophy was a soccer trophy - random!
Coburg Fun Run March 16th
6km 26:47
I was really itching to get out and race because my training is looking very good and I wanted to go under 26 minutes. Unfortunately the weather was very hot, about 25 degrees or more. It was a hard run again. I was on track for a massive PB but the last 3 minutes or so were extremely tough and I really let it go. Not a bad time considering and there's always next time. I was the first female again.
Races coming up over the next month or so:
Run for the Kids (Sunday)
Richmond/Malvern Challenge (Saturday 5th April)
House athletics
House cross country
Jells Park relays
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Lorne Mountain to Surf
In 35 degree heat we made the drive down to Lorne, dropping our bikes off at Fran's in Lara on the way. When we arrived in Lorne I picked up my race pack (including the brown t shirt!) and then went and sat in the car listening to the cricket. I was feeling really unwell and so couldn't be bothered exploring the shops. At about 5 o'clock I got changed and we headed over towards the start of the run. We were due to start at 5.45pm (with the opens at 5.30pm). However, we found out they were delaying it for 30 minutes coz the heat was at unsafe levels even though it was pretty cool. Mum ran into a friend so we stayed with her for a while then went up to the start again. We soon learnt it was delayed for longer.
My goals for the race were 38 minutes and top 10 in my age category (very optimistically 36 minutes and top 5).
The opens eventually started at 6.45 and then we started at about 6.55. By that time I was extremely hungry. I had forgotten how tough the hills were. There are 4 of them and I struggled to keep going without walking. I really pushed it on the downhill in between the uphills. Finally we were done with the big hills and on to the bush path. The path is awesome - I could run along it everyday. It's quite hazardous as there are large stones and tree roots so you really have to keep your eyes on the ground. The path is also narrow and I was constantly passing slower open runners and young kids who were running in spurts. I was travelling as fast as I could along the track and I knew I was running a good pace. When I reached the Great Ocean Road I grabbed a quick drink and then went to run across but just missed the cut off (they stop the runners to let cars through every half minute or so). So for the second year in a row I had to wait 20-30 seconds. Once I got started again I found the going tough as it wasn't as shady on the asphalt and the heat radiated off it. I just had to keep pushing it. Eventually I got to the foreshore path and I knew it wasn't far to go. The crowds certainly get larger along there. I had a bit of a battle with another girl my age. Eventually I finished in 36.55, including the stop at the road. My 8km PB is 36.12 so considering the stop and the hills I think I am back in form. I think I came 6th or 7th in my age group, we'll have to see.
Bring on 2008!!!
My goals for the race were 38 minutes and top 10 in my age category (very optimistically 36 minutes and top 5).
The opens eventually started at 6.45 and then we started at about 6.55. By that time I was extremely hungry. I had forgotten how tough the hills were. There are 4 of them and I struggled to keep going without walking. I really pushed it on the downhill in between the uphills. Finally we were done with the big hills and on to the bush path. The path is awesome - I could run along it everyday. It's quite hazardous as there are large stones and tree roots so you really have to keep your eyes on the ground. The path is also narrow and I was constantly passing slower open runners and young kids who were running in spurts. I was travelling as fast as I could along the track and I knew I was running a good pace. When I reached the Great Ocean Road I grabbed a quick drink and then went to run across but just missed the cut off (they stop the runners to let cars through every half minute or so). So for the second year in a row I had to wait 20-30 seconds. Once I got started again I found the going tough as it wasn't as shady on the asphalt and the heat radiated off it. I just had to keep pushing it. Eventually I got to the foreshore path and I knew it wasn't far to go. The crowds certainly get larger along there. I had a bit of a battle with another girl my age. Eventually I finished in 36.55, including the stop at the road. My 8km PB is 36.12 so considering the stop and the hills I think I am back in form. I think I came 6th or 7th in my age group, we'll have to see.
Bring on 2008!!!
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