Looking back at 2013 I can only say that it was not a good year for me when it comes to running. In fact, it was one of the worst running years I've had in a long time.
The year started well with me having a good base and building up to run the Comrades Marathon in June. I was doing road races and all was well.
I really trained hard at this stage and found myself in great shape and losing weight all the time.
This continued until 9 April when I had a bad fall during my training run the morning. I fell on my left knee and although it was bruised quite badly it was the damage on the inside that caused me problems.
The knee was just not right and I could not get any long runs done. By the beginning of May I knew Comrades was out the window for 2013.
The one good thing about this was that I could get back on the trails sooner than I planned. I was now training for the Num-Num trail race in August.
I did fall on the same knee again...
But all went well and I had a good Num-Num.
Even though I was 200% tired and dead after this tough run, it was definitely my best race of the year.
After the Num-Num I continued training for my next big goal, the Otter Trail Run. Everything was going as planned until I got flu which later went over into Bronchitis. I missed all my planned long runs for the Otter.
The race was fantastic, but the flu and bronchitis took its toll. I missed a cutoff and had a DNF at Otter.
After Otter I took a step back to recover completely and then started training again. I was just building up nicely when I got a stomach bug that lasted a full two weeks, but it put my running back a lot more than two weeks...
Finally I recovered and could start training again. I was just getting into my routine when I dropped a broken slate of glass and got a very bad cut on my foot. More weeks lost! By now I knew I would not race again in 2013.
I have my goals lined up for 2014. I am training normally again but I had to step it down a lot. My first big race is on 26 March 2014. I really hope all will go well with my buildup for this.
So that's my 2013 review. Not great at all but at least no serious running injuries. Next year this time I'll be ending a great running year...I really believe that.
20 comments:
Here's to a healthier running 2014.
But even your bad running year had a lot of running.
Best wishes to stay injury free next year!
Maybe someone needs to invent knee pads for the more adventuresome runners! Here's hoping 2014 goes more smoothly!
You definitely had a tough running year that's for sure. I hope that 2014 is much better for you. Be careful out there :)
We can wrap you in bubble wrap so that you don't hurt yourself falling or with glass? I think it will be a great year for you as well!
I'll bet you're pleased to put this year to rest. Some years can be like that but at least there's always another one coming.
You still did a lot more running than me in spite of injuries. My complaint just gets worse every year, it's called 'old age'!
All the best for 2014
Hopefully, the next year will be better, Johann! Wishing you all the best!
Here's the good news: 2014 can only go up, right? Sorry it was a tough year. I've had them--I think it's par for the course when you've been running a long time as we have.
What a frustrating year! I'm looking forward to reading about and seeing pictures of all your awesome 2014 adventures!
Role on 2014...
2013 has been an unlucky year for me with running too! What a string of unlucky events you've had, though. Bring on 2014. I am ready!
You got some lovely runs and events in though. I hope that 2014 brings many more.
Thanks for a great blog Johann. Here is hoping that 2014 goes according to plan, and that you continue writing about it :)
Next year will be in better shape Johann. You'll enjoy a lot of adventures.
Best wishes!
You've definitely had more than your share of issues this year. I know 2014 will be better!
Not serious injures is an important "achieved goal". Sorry for the bad years and good luck for a great 2014.
I swear the universe yings and yangs on us. 2014 will be a stellar year for you - you've paid your dues in 2013!
I've enjoyed sharing the year with you, my friend. Honored!
Ugh, you have had a tough time. Better luck next year!
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