In the Running
Reporter Rob Alderson is in training for his first Hastings Half Marathon - here he gets racing tips from the experts ahead of the event.
I have started taking this thing too seriously. During the nightly training runs down the seafront, I have started sizing up every jogger I see in terms of the potential competition they pose.
I glide past people I am quicker than, laughing joylessly inside at my superhuman athletic prowess, and rage at people who dare to overtake me, seething at their overconfidence.
Runners often nod at each other when they pass - I am convinced they are taking in their rivals.
In case you are as pathetically competitive as me, I have been collecting hints and tips.
Eamonn Martin, who won this event in 1993 and went on to win the London Marathon, has compiled a handy list on the half marathon website.
Eamonn insists running shoes are the most vital piece of kit and avoiding dehydration is critical.
He also suggests building up your training and finding a running buddy, saying that if you cannot talk while you are jogging you are going too fast.But it is point six where Eamonn really starts to talk my language.
I quote: "Don't be afraid to walk during your training. Walking can act as a recovery and actually help you in your overall training. After a couple of minutes of walking you will probably feel recovered and ready to run again."
Huzzah!
I also spoke to Michael Hall of Hastings Runners who gave another important tip: "Don't peak too early."
So if you're pumped and ready to go already you're actually at a disadvantage (this is how I am choosing to spin his words).
The full list of advice is on www.hastings-half.co.uk.
**I am running on behalf of the Dragonflies Take Flight project. It's a St Leonards-based charity which helps children who have lost loved ones. To sponsor me, please send a cheque to Woods House, Telford Road, St Leonards, TN38 9LX, made out to the charity.***
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Weather for Lewes
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 15 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 23 mph
Wind direction: East
