May 2021 Running Update
If you’re new to Journey to Chamonix, then welcome to my monthly running update!
Each month I track my progress to my goal of running in the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB), which I’m hoping to achieve in the next few years. Qualification races, lotteries and a Strava load of training to do first though. For the latest progress read on!
Since last time
On the first day of the month, my goal to run the Great Ocean Road Marathon was in jeopardy. I was diagnosed with a chest infection and put on antibiotics. Not the ideal lead up to the race that I had worked hard to be in shape for.
In the 2 weeks leading up to the Marathon, I rested up and stayed off my feet with minimal running. Not the ideal preparation I had in mind. I had already missed a large chunk of my training block with an ankle injury.
In spite of this, I was able to run the event and enjoy the weekend. During the event, I experienced cramping and an elevated heart rate. I failed to map out my race strategy and as a result, could not execute what I was looking to achieve. In the end, I think I was fortunate to finish. I was so happy to be able to take part and finish the marathon (with everything that had happened i.e.. sickness, injury etc.) but I was very disappointed at my race result. A good learning experience that I can take into future events.
Post Marathon, I took some more time to rest my body and recover. I was able to concentrate on my running objectives for the remainder of the year and allocate some planning time to my next major event, The Surf Coast Century 100 km. Check out my Race Schedule for more detail on other events I’m looking to tackle in 2021 and beyond.
I start my next training block in early June. Keep moving forward!
| Date | Type | Surface | Distance | Pace | RPE* |
| Sun 30 May 21 | Run | Concrete | 12.02 km | 5:00 min/km | 5 |
| Fri 28 May 21 | Run | Concrete | 7.52 km | 4:57 min/km | 4 |
| Wed 26 May 21 | Run | Concrete | 5.6 km | 4:58 min/km | 2 |
| Sat 22 May 21 | Run | Concrete | 5.02 km | 3:48 min/km | 10 |
| Sun 16 May 21 | Run | Concrete | 44.53 km | 5:31 min/km | 10 |
| Mon 10 May 21 | Run | Concrete | 3.02 km | 5:20 min/km | 3 |
| Sat 1 May 21 | Run | Concrete | 4.98 km | 5:33 min/km | 4 |
How have I progressed
- Race experience. Good learnings from GOR Marathon – importance of planning and execution
- Training Plan for the Surf Coast Century
- Focused on remaining goals for the year
Stats since last update
- 82.69 km along local paths and on the Great Ocean Road!
