Almeria 2010

[ladyrunner]

Hi Guys,

Sorry but I have been very quiet since my return from Almeria. It took me a few days upon my return to recover from the travel and the 13.1 miles of hard street pounding took it's toll on my body.

What a brilliant weekend it was. I totally loved the race - the sunshine really made it for me this year after the dreadfully cold weather that we have had in Sussex. I was so happy to run 2 minutes faster than last year and really enjoyed Sweder's company for the first half of the run, even if he spent the whole time telling me to relax, slow down and breath heavily in my ear .

I was very happy this year to mix with the Spanish runners (Antonio, Santi and Manola). Last year with the increased numbers we didn't get much chance to mix with the Spanish guys. Thank you Antonio for all your help over the weekend, the restaurants before and after the race where splendid. It was very nice to spend more time with you this year and get you know you in person.

The run and mountain climb that we did at Cabo de Gata on Monday afternoon were temendous. It was so good to be out at a place of natural beautiful in sunshine with Ash, Simon, Antonio and Tracey. The photos taken on this day were brilliant. It was a shame that El Gordo had to miss this experience due to his calf.

I haven't made it out for a run since I got back, but am off out in the morning for 17 miles on the Downs. Hopefully Sweder will make it along too. I am aiming to carry out my training tip that I gave Antonio - run steady for the long run but run hard for the last 3 miles (have you tried this yet Antonio??).

Thank you Sweder, El Gordo, Antonio, Simon Ho and Tracey for making the weekend so enjoyable. Hope to see you all again for 2011 Almeria Half Marathon.

Julie