To the Top, Lads

Just returned from a trip to the top of the mountain ridge framing the city of Oaxaca to the north. Richard, his three dogs and I ran more than 11 miles door to door.

It was a run, but indeed it included bits of walking up pitched inclines; we start the run at about 5000 feet and crested the ridge a bit over 6000. I was working very hard indeed as we neared the ridge line.

I felt "average" today. Not great, but not flat either. It was a damn hard run/walk of just over two hours. It was money into the fitness bank, but the best part was looking at both the city of Oaxaca and the Etla valley from our perch on the ridge, just stunning views on a gorgeous morning.

I feel ready to race any distance from 5K to a half marathon, a good feeling indeed. Give me a few interval sessions and I'll be good to go over the 1500/mile too, probably my best distance based on my natural abilities (or lack thereof!)

Bekele's Marathon Debut a Success

Kenenisa Bekele has some life in his 31 year old legs yet.

After a few years of injury and set back, the world record holder for the 5000 and 10000 meters on the track is healthy again. Today the Ethiopian runner won the Paris Marathon in his first attempt at the distance in the stellar time of 2:05:03, all the more impressive as this is a tough course.

It will be interesting to see how the great Bekele fares over the next few years as he tackles the Marathon. It's been a hot distance the last few years, as the prize money is better than it is for long distance track racing.

Full story here