A Maltese ultra-runner's diary
Hi and welcome to my web site.
"The aim of this site is to share my experiences on the road to my first 24-hour race, which I intend to complete by June 2009. I will be building up for this event by participating in other ultra-distance races, though probably not before the end of this year."
This was on the 1st April 2007. Since then, I have targeted a more specific event for my debut in a 24-hour race - the Commonwealth Championships to be held in October 2009. Primarily it would be an honour for me to wear my country's colours at such a prestigious event. However, besides flying the flag, I also want to put in a creditable performance.
There are no guarantees that these targets will be achieved because as any ultra-runner knows, there are too many variables involved; not least of which is my physiological and mental capacity to undertake the intensive training involved. Bearing this in mind, I am thankful of having John Walsh, one of Malta's leading athletic coaches, as an advisor and my partner Francesca, who is a qualified physiotherapist but who helps me in more ways than one.
Should you like to comment or pass on some tips or ideas, please contact me by email: ultra@79664664.com or SMS/phone: 0035679664664.
And, if you are travelling to Malta, do get in touch. We can meet up for a training run or simply chat over a cappuccino!
Thanks for visiting.
Sandro
*Latest news:
13 April 2008
As of today, I have officially started training for the Lifecycle Challenge to be held in August - a 2200km cycle from Lourdes, France to Casablanca, Morocco in 10 days flat. I am committing myself to this event in view of the injury I had which has precluded me from going for an ultra run competition in May. There's still the major problem of obtaining leave from work during this busy month but at least I have structured training which will serve me well when I don my running shoes again.
18 March 2008
Since I've been unable to train for a while, I am not keeping RHR records; this period of detraining will obviously affect the measurements.
7 March 2008
Had to curtail session due to pain, then snapping, in left calf muscle. Went to emergency department at hospital & diagnosed with partial muscle tear. This necessitates regular ice treatment over the next 2 days and heat treatment + ultrasound thereafter. Must avoid weight bearing on left leg and keep elevated whenever possible. Am checking about benefits of stationary cycling & rowing to speed up recovery while maintaining a modicum of fitness. All ok for upper body gym work though.
Guess my Garmin has to wait a while longer before it can be put to good use!
6 March 2008
Started using my new sports watch: Garmin Forerunner 305. Initial impressions - positive!
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