Random observations of a runner

So having done 10k at the end of October,  and eased back my distances a bit since then, I now have to bring them back up for the Bramley 10m in February. The training target will be 2 laps of VW lake, about 9 miles, a couple of weeks before the race then some tapering until the big day.

Today I did an hour, covering 5.5 miles which is really not a great pace, but I did have a couple of traffic light stops! This route was a short stretch of the A30, then around Virginia Water Lake with an extended bit around the Polo field/Wick Road

I had my music on, but even that can be a bit boring, so I like to people watch. On a  sunny day like today, there were plenty to watch.

Firstly - the dog walkers. These come in 3 types. The full-makeup-and-hair walking the 'fragile' coat-wearing dog on a lead.  Small dogs these, so beware the tripping danger. Usually on tight leads so not a huge issue. Then there are the stuff-and-nonsense waxed jacket types, always with large energetic dogs who are in and out of bushes, in and out of the lake and generally making the most of the terrain. Beware the post-swim shake as that water can go a long way.  And if I show any hesitation when the dog approaches, I am told in no uncertain terms that if he thinks I am afraid he will jump on me. I can never work out how that is supposed to help as it just makes me more nervous which will increase the chances of contact! Lastly, we have the family dogs being taken for a walk because otherwise they will be unbearable. They mostly ignore me :) but not each other.

Then we have the runners. Runners fall into two categories, the friendly who say hello, and the unfriendly who don't.  Many of the friendly ones I see regularly which increases the friendliness. I have yet to fathom the unfriendly ones but some are 'serious runners' (ahem) who wouldn't lower themselves to acknowledge a middle-aged plodder like me, and others look like they are in too much pain to smile.

Finally we have the walker/exercisers. These are usually groups of women post school run. Big issue with these groups is that they hog the path completely meaning anyone else overtaking or approaching from the opposite direction has to leave the path to pass them. C'mon ladies, if there are 4 of you and one of me surely it is not too much to ask you to give way a little so I don't end up in the bushes!

Right, must crack on with Christmas cards, Christmas shopping and other boring stuff.