Break
Well, after my mandatory week off training after BVRT 100, catching up on some sleep and enough food to sink a ship, training is back in full swing and the build has begun for a couple of cycling events (I hope) and my 50marathons in 50days project. The body is still feeling the effects of the race, especially the quads and a couple other niggles, but it is coming around slowly.
The next couple of months is going to involve massive training days, lots of running and plenty of ‘seat time’ on the bike considering I am training for a 200mile gravel event. A fair bit scary, but exciting too. I am looking forward to the build, keen to run and get back to my normal. All going well (come on the bloody Government and COVID lockdowns) I have Tour de Brisbane bike ride next weekend and the 200 at the end of August. A bit of fun thrown in the running mix.
As a side…..
A thought I had over the last week with congratulations flying and tales of the race whilst at work and out and about is around suffering. Pain and breaking my body down is what I train for, strive for and look forward to in a sick kind of way in races. It is perplexing, and to be honest, a bit weird that people are fascinated and hold me in some sort of other regard because I am remotely good at something that hurts me! Does that make me even more of an outlier because I seek the dark place and discomfort that a race and covering vast distances on foot bring? I would be lying if I didn't say I take pride in people showing such interest in my accomplishments. However, that just kind of adds to the oddness.
A vortex of unsettling break down, encouragement and feeling of worth because of a mild amount of admiration due of my levels of insanity. A bizarre world of fringe ‘celebrity’. I am certain there are FAR better ways of gaining notoriety, however, this is the path I have chosen. Off centre thoughts, maybe, but regardless, my ponderings from this week.
This coming weekend also sees a fun adventure. I have been asked to speak at the Central Queensland Sports Academy camp, which will be super fun. I will be doing my best to impart some practical tips and inspiration to the sports stars of tomorrow. Very keen and honoured to be a part of what looks to be a rad event.
Apart from that, all is well. I am excited about what is ahead, the volume of training and challenge of getting it done day after day. Here’s to finding your own purpose this week! Much love. MAt