This morning started a bit shaky if I’m totally honest, I was really nervous, pressure I was feeling from myself knowing what I somehow needed to do to better my previous best time. I had had a super busy few days and just wasn’t in a good positive head space. I needed some time alone to decompress at the start and I was ever so grateful for your words of right could hear you giving to us all. It also really helped going slower in the first few miles from previously. As I hit Queensway I was sensible and felt comfortable so just carried on keeping a good steady pace, pushed on at every opportunity, I kept looking back for everyone but didn’t want to risk falling over 🙈 I really enjoyed it so much today, felt strong and tbh just kept going, by the time I hit old London Road I caught Sarah and just thought right if I can keep going and not let either of you to psss me I can actually make this sub 2hrs. I would have happily settled for 1.59. 59 🤣 I can’t lie I was really feeling it along the seafront, legs were winding up but my pace was still ok considering I think. I was absolutely shocked when I crossed the line and looked at the time on my watch 🎉 tears came 🥹 hidden behind my sunglasses 😎 I was elated and exhausted but what a day. The atmosphere and crowds were amazing weren’t they !!
What a day!! I so proud of you. I did get the sense you were anxious when I saw you sitting in the scouts hut. But you’ve proven again today what is possible with that consistent training, week in week out. I’m also glad the pacing helped you early doors as Sarah did go off quickly again. Normally in that position when I am pacing someone, I would have said “slow down” or “hold back”, but on this occasion I had this confidence that you kicking on meant you felt strong and I didn’t for a second think that I would catch you up on the route. I think that highlights my confidence in your determination and character to keep going. One of my goals with my own running is work so hard and be so proud that I cross the line of a race and burst into tears. I was close at Chester, but not quite, so I understand your elation and glad you got the feel that way. Just superb. I don’t know else what to say, and I really appreciate your kind words publicly. Coaching means the world to me now and to get that appreciation means everything.
Coach Simon 🍊
