Planning For A Gradual Return To Normality

On February 24th following the government’s roadmap announcement England Athletics released their own return to athletics and running guidance. It used March 29th as the date for a limited return for both junior and senior activities. There could be a change of plan in the next week but I’ve been planning for a gradual return to normality.

In the meantime I’m catching up with events going on across the world. At the beginning of the month it was indoor track on tv. Last week by contrast the Barkley Marathons. Still as crazy as ever only 2 of the competitors completed the 3 loop fun run before being counted out. Over thirty years after the race was first organised only 15 entrants have finished the 5 loops within the 60 hour limit.

Some events in the UK are planned for May including my Boston UK Marathon which was postponed twice in 2020. I’m not enthusiastic about training for the event while things are not certain. A road marathon isn’t usually my type of race but I was hoping for a sub 3 hour performance before reaching my mid forties. It doesn’t look like that is going to happen now but I’m keeping my options open for now. 2 is favourite currently.

I’ve been collecting replacement shorts, waterproof, socks and shoes over the last year to improve on my choices. I’ve got a big box of Kendal Mint Cake energy gels which I love. Slurp down a whole one and feel the back of your throat freeze with minty numbness. Alternatively be sensible and take little sips. Either way I’m looking forward to sticky adventures in the months ahead.

Return To Normality Month By Month

March

Start group training again with Derwentside A.C. on March 30th with a 5-1 ratio. Build up slowly to our usual activities by the end of April.

April

The fun starts again in April with increased access to travel. My initial plan is to maintain millage and increase difficulty while restarting my usual training activities. I’m looking forward to getting back on the fells in the Lake District and Cheviots. I’ve also got a twice rearranged 10 mile road race at the end of the month. I’ve only ever done one before (in 2011) so it should be a personal best.

May

By now I’ll be desperate for a fell race but so far there aren’t many choices so keeping the training going instead is important. Hopefully by now more races will be confirmed for the Summer and I can get some entries in.

June

The main focus for June is the Bolts Law Basher at the end of the month. By now almost all restrictions should be lifted including nightclubs so I expect a fell run should be OK. A good night for a get together of friends old and new for a nice training run. We have set a date of June 29th and booked the village hall in Rookhope. More details can be found on the events link below.

2019 participants in the Bolts Law Basher

What are your plans for a return to normality? Let us know in the comments below.

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