Notes
Not race but fast pace in a race. Today I entered the 'Gates of The or My Running Temple'!!! Frankie run it too! My 5 miler which has allowed me to Become a long distance runner. I remember the times when I would do it 2wice or thrice over or combine its course with more up-hills and down-hills and have fun. it would be no exaggeration to say that I have done the course at least 4 times per week for 17 years in sequence apart from 3 yrs when had a serious back injury (early 90's) and was not able to run. So, it was an honour to run it. Once upon a time I was the first lady there / Aug 1990 with a 30:31 sec time at the age of 31. Where time goes but running and what one achieves is earned and no-one and nothing can take it away. On training days I would do a 35 min around the course at a medium pace!!!!!! Today I did not race it but I pushed it 90 to 95% effort. I had to run it with my head and not with my heart although on the hill and for last mile did a 07:20 minute pace per mile. It is a long steep hill on the course but a very exciting one. The course has been shortened to 4.8 miles and slightly changed to the start to avoid traffic. However, the entire loop was almost 98% the same. This time the steep winded hill (up to 300 ft elevation and for 0.6 of a mile was at the end of the race rather than the beginning. The course was back to front in comparison to years back. Buckland is considered to be my Home 5 miler. At the very top of the hill used to be two large size trees / one for my mum and the other for God that I would, on occasion, stop and hug this way thanking and been grateful for reaching the top. The trees were no longer there anymore but the soul of my mother and God's presence were hence although tempted did not walk for a sec. My chest and head were a bit hazy and cloudy and my stomach slightly weak and feeling physically sick for a minute but I kept going. When on top I knew I would be fine. My physical body, however and legs felt strong although had no training or preparation whatsoever. I have returned to Buckland and my soul is happy.
Frankie did Buckland proud too. He managed a 31:56 pace but he noted could have given more. There will always be a next time in the horizon for us both. He raced and I run it fast. Weather was great and kind even with rain at some point which was God's blessing. Not heavy but enough to keep us all cool. What an amazing day with amazing moments.
Thank you God and mum and also my daughter who inspired me very much today.