Running – County Novice #1

I only started running as a way to get fitter, next minute I’m standing at the start of a county novice wondering whether to get sick or make a bolt for the toilet. I don’t usually suffer from nerves at the start but wearing a club bib adds another layer to running in that you’re representing your hometown. It’s also a bit of don’t make a show of yourself or let the lads down.

The race started and we all just belted along, it’s mayhem as we all set off, all plans of taking it easy at the start went out the window. Someone behind let out “ah beat da fuck” which summed up perfectly what I and probably many others thought about this pace. I didn’t know where I should run or whether I could keep this pace and fairly shortly I had to slow down. The race is 6 KM long and is a starter race for club members around Wexford. Usually this time of the year it’s cooler and that day it was near 20 degrees, one guy actually had to withdraw right near the end even though he was second. It’s good running experience running short distance, it’s much more intense. Not only are you running for yourself but you are running for the team medals so every place is important.

Slaney Olympic County Novice Team 2012

I was disappointed with my performance to be honest, I had nothing left at the end, a heavy wedding session the day before did not help nor did my pace at the start. From the Garmin feedback for a the last couple of races I can see I’m better starting slow and finishing strong. I simply haven’t done the work to be able to get near the front of race like this but again a learning race. It was great getting over the finish, the lads ahead took gold and silver in the team event and the women won gold in the team event too. A great buzz as everyone congratulates each other and smiles all around, a great crowd cheering you on also which all adds to the occasion.

I can now see how you can really get caught up in the running, all of a sudden it’s not about you anymore, you’re representing your pals and your hometown. It makes me want to get much better and start training properly for once and for all. I’m glad I joined the club now, don’t know why I didn’t do it sooner, there’s a summer league coming up shortly