Spanish Stroll

["Down in one ...."]

With the wakeboard zipped up safetly for the winter; running seemed to be an easy option. Not so..... Training schedule and planning was at best patchy and excuses created too numerous to list.

After a comfortable start chatting with another contender we returned to the relative warmth of the stadium ready to set off once again half an hour later.

This time nerves kicked in. Tried to visulise the course as if through augmented reality. Didn't make it any easier though. Main goal in mind 'just to finish'. First couple of k's spent running with locals who like me had done very little prep; and we enjoyed the escort up the course by the local police who rarely could take vehicles out of 1st gear and reviving their engines when they stalled.

Cheer from SP soon arrived 2 k in front descending down the hill on the opposite side. Have to admit nearly gave up then! Spotted Simon and ladyrunner making excellent time on the 1/2 marathon soon after.

A big heart felt thank you for all the encouragement to all in our group SP has previously mentioned individually - for your patience and kindness to a complete novice. Great to meet with you all ........ a big thank you to Antonio and friends in Almeria for organising a memorable event.

"Good timber does not grow with ease; the stronger the wind, the stronger the trees"
J. Willard Marriott

Guess will be applying the above quote to the next training schedule.