Marathon Training

Sometimes, things go right, and sometimes things go wrong.

I always enjoy training for a race. And part of that is the company of the friends that I train with. I will happily get out of bed on a Saturday morning at 6am to join my friends. And I will even do it after little sleep. There is no chance that I would get out of bed early to, say, do the washing and cleaning on a Saturday morning. No chance at all. Maybe I would get out of bed to walk a dog, if I had a dog. But I don't have a dog. I may go to the market early, but that is because I am addicted to the custard donuts and coffee that the little Italian ladies serve to me, but that's about all.

So, in training for the Melbourne marathon this time (no - I haven't sent in my entry yet!), I seem to be able to easily get out of bed. Really easily. I look forward to my long Saturday morning runs. I look forward to the cold morning runs. Two and a half hours - no problem, here I come. I'll be there. Wouldn't miss it.

But then things got complicated - late night, very good company and a few beers. One of those nights where you don't really want to go home. And a long run the next morning planned in advance.

I got out of bed - I was there on time. I ran for two and a half hours, enjoying the run (and my friends' company), and wishing that the time would not pass so quickly. It was hard, but I did it. And enjoyed it.

Running marathons isn't about the race. It's about the friendship and sacrifice you do beforehand.