9 May

Saturday was a good day. After two weeks out of action I upped my mileage from 17 to 25. In fact I set out round Draycote Water aiming for a minimum of 20 miles and hoping that I would achieve 25. I stopped after 10 miles for a short break and to check that the feet were holding up to the strain after my injuries. They were doing well though it was a relief to take my boots off for a few minutes.

I'd set a good time for the first 10 miles, 2.5 hours, so I allowed myself to slow down a bit after that. Strangely the lap from 10 - 15 miles was the hardest and I felt quite weary. Though another foot check and some lunch and I was off again. They've installed some mile marker posts around the lake which is a great help. The next two laps went well though I knew I had completed a good distance by the end because I simply felt weary and my muscles ached a little. I think listening to Genesis 'Live Over Europe' was a great help, especially the tracks where the beat fitted my walking rhythm. Knowing it was also coming to an end also helped a great deal.

The next day saw me out and about again though I only did 6 miles it was useful, it got rid of the ache in the limbs. All in all an excellent weekend. Next weekend I'll be back at Draycote, doing either another 25 or possibly pushing on to 27 miles depending upon how I feel.