Well, that's it for the year and what a great year it has been for me. Most importantly I have managed to get through a whole season without major injury and with the last race of the season under my belt and another 10k in the 37 region I am to say the least ecstatic with all I have achieved this year.
When I went into the season all the way back at the Chirk 10k in April, I would never have dreamed of the achievements I have managed to attain this season. The thought of a sub-40min 10 k was my main aim and this happened back in July at Felinhelli. This was closely followed by my first and second 1st places in a races at the Great Orme challenge together with the Gobowen 4. But probably the best result was my 1st place in the Ras Fawr Llanddoged and a course record. Its probably down to my sentimentality but as this was the first race that I ever did back in 2005, to win it at the second attempt by over 9 minutes to second lady and to break the course record was great.
Probably the proudest moment though would be my selection for the Welsh squads at 10k and cross country. Both Neale and Simon Shields had said to me quite soon after my sub 40 10k that a Welsh vest would beckon and I was dismissive. However, I will never ever forget the phone call from Jaqueline Brace at Welsh Athletics asking me to take part in the Cardiff 10k inter regional competition. I was not disappointed and I even managed to knock more time off my PB. This also opened another chapter in my racing career with many new friendships being formed and new opportunities realised.
But now as I sit and remember a very, very busy year with lots of miles in my legs, I already start to think what 2008 holds in store. Not 24 hours has passed since I finished the Helena Tipping 10k and I am already contemplating my first competitive half marathon next month!
2007 has seen me mature so much as a competitor and made me realise what you can achieve with dedication and commitment. It hasn't been at all easy but I've literally enjoyed every minute of it. The new friends, the travelling , the whole experience has been mind blowing. If 2008 is only half as good as 2007 I will still remain a very happy person.
2008 will hopefully see me team up with the elusive coach, both Neale and I know that this is the only real way forward if I am to reduce my times even more. My ambitions for the 2008 season? To stay injury free, to sub 36 at 10k and to sub 1-20 at half marathon. I would also be very proud to pull on the Welsh vest again if asked. So that's it....the end of the 2007 season and 5 weeks to my next race..what heaven!
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