Wednesday, 4 May 2011

Marathon Day 50, Wednesday 4th May - Carlisle, Bitts Park

I am reliably informed  that today is Star Wars day!!

"May the 4th be with you!!" 

- well, someone had to say it, didn't they!

But on to more important matters - a sunny start to what promises to be a very warm day in a beautiful setting.  The Mayor arrived in good time for our early start this morning which we deemed essential for us to meet a fairly tight flight schedule from Glasgow this evening -  for Andy, Sophie & Barry that is - Nikki and I are returning home after garaging the RV in Barracks. We're travelling back to Glasgow on Monday 9th, the evening before the Glasgow marathon.
Andy's pre-race interview with Julie from Radio Cumbria

Richard Bewell from Wetherby travelled to run with Andy today - not sure whether he will do the full distance with him but will see how it goes!
The lovely Mayor flanked by Richard and Andy

Off to a flying start . . . 

It is a glorious day, the conditions ideal for Andy and after 8 miles he's looking really good and pleased with himself.  I believe that he's trying for a PB today. 
Tried to do some route planning and admin but eventually gave up. I will do what ever is necessary when  my duties reconvene  for the Glasgow Marathon on 10th May.

The RV is a hive of activity with everyone packing either for Northern Ireland or home. My packing is minimal 'cos it's only a couple of days since I returned to the fray!  I just kept my head down and out of the way!

Andy's speedy progress took us all by surprise and he finished the marathon, accompanied by Richard in a fabulous Personal Best of  5hrs 28mins! 


The pace of the last mile in 6min 30sec shows clearly in Andy's (and Richard's) demeanor!!

An elated Andy crossed the line and was then hustled  to the car to be ferried to Glasgow Airport for the flight to Belfast - Bless Him, his feet never touched the ground!

The journey to Glasgow was fine until reaching Glasgow City Centre M8 Motorway. The traffic was horrendous and any thoughts of Nikki taking Andy, Sophie & Barry to the airport went out of the window.  We actually arrived at the Barracks just before the taxi arrived and just had time to wave goodbye to them.

We quickly transferred everything we needed to the Yeti and with Nikki competently driving and me competently sleeping, we made the journey back to Sproatley via Wetherby to drop Nikki off.

I eventually arrived home at about 11.15pm and extremely pleased to be here!!!

Managed a semi awake snuggle with Benji before retiring to bed - will have to wait for the morning for a proper one!!

And so to bed . . . .





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