So The Spine v3 2014 starts tomorrow at
08:00.
This morning I woke with nervous
anticipation as the start looms ever closer. Not the sheer terror and panic
before the 2012 race, or the brewing excitement and determination of last year but just a gentle
anticipation of the task ahead.
I remember all the highs of last year and
also some of the pain and huge lows during the race, but as time passes the
highs become more memorable and the lows less important. They say this happens
to women after childbirth.
'Newbies' will be feeling understandably
scared; the fear of the unknown. Us ’veterans’ just nervous; we know what’s out
there. It doesn’t make it any easier; we just know what to expect.
It’s been a very long trip to even get to
the start. On the running front, an almost perfect first 6 months of year with
finishes in The Spine (5th=), MdS (77th), Hardmoors 110
(7th) and Lakes 10 peaks (7th), followed by a less
memorable second 6 months when I had to focus of getting my enjoyment and
motivation back. On the personal front, a pretty poor first 6 months following
by an even worse second 6 months. I have spent much of the year
drowning under the weight of my depression and have pushed all my family to the
limits of their love and patience. I know it has affected everyone around me
and for that I am truly sorry. I also thank everyone for their love and support
My enthusiasm for life has been pretty low
at times. I didn’t make it to the Spine Training weekend as my head was in a
torrid place. Even as late as this Monday, I put all my Spine kit back in the
drawers, not sure that I could face it.
But face it I can, and face it I will.
Over the next week, I (and I imagine all
competitors) will have moments that encapsulate all possible emotions. There
will be laughter. There will probably be tears. However, the finish and the
whole experience is worth it all. Good luck to all
That which does not kill us makes us
stronger
