Last long run

Last week I had 4 huge working days in Auckland during which time I only was able to get out for 1 run - a lovely 45 minute loop around the Domain - I met up with pbig (Peter), Caleb, Oldknees (Nick) & Brian for a run in the Dandenongs.

God I was tired but so glad that I agreed to meet them at the bottom of One Tree Hill - If I didn't then I would probably still be in bed! Starting up Lyrebird Track I ran at least 75% of it and hit the top feeling puffed but not totally buggered. Nick lead us (yelling from behind!) for the next hour over some great hills to Sherbrook. From here we took Ridge Track down to Micawbers then over to Grant's Picnic Ground. Peter and I wanted to to a loop here but Caleb and Nick were planning to head back so we decided to go with them an possibly to another Lyrebird/Steps repeat to finish.

Well I am glad that we did turn around. The rain was continuing and it became very cold very quickly. I was really struggling back along Lloyds Track and my hands were completely numb. I kept a good steady pace though and ran all the way through to the top of One Tree Hill despite both hamstrings/glutes seizing up in the cold and the pain in my hands. Down the steps very carefully as it was wet and slippery. Halfway down you could feel the temperature change and by the time we hit the bottom it was perfect running conditions again.

The last 400m run down hill absolutely killed me in my butt and I could not speed up like Peter and Caleb managed. I briefly contemplated the Lyrebird/Steps repeat but I was cold, wet and sore so I bailed!

A good tough 2.5 hours though