Angie - Day 243 - 3.1 miles

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Run around Netherton. Was only going to do a mile but got carried away.

Angie - Day 242 - 1.2 miles

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Leaving this morning so just a short run to the Gillingham sign and back. Will be a return to the hills tomorrow!

Angie - Day 241 - 3.2 miles

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Ran into town via the Tesco and then the usual route around the quay and park.

Angie - Day 240- 1.1 mile

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A short run to the Gillingham sign as we rae hiring a boat from 9.30 to 5pm. Dad skippering.

Angie - Day 239 - 3 miles

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Ran along the road to the Gillingham sign and then quay/park. Went to Lowestoft for the day, a walk along the beach front in the sunshine. Lovely :-)

Angie - Day 238 - 3 miles

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Ran into Beccles town and then around the quay and park. Went out fir a lovely 4 hour walk afterwards with a strawberry cider in the pub half way around. Good day.

Angie - Day 237 - Beccles - 3.5 miles

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Travelled to Suffolk with Dad last night so first run in new surroundings. Ran around the local quay and a few laps of the park whilst Dad and Heather walked around. Was nice and flat :-)

243/365 Parkrun route B 5K by Big Kev

243/365 Parkrun route B 5K by Big Kev

After the enormous effort of my 5K PB yesterday, Parkrun this morning was a venture into the relatively unknown. Today's route had to be changed from the normal 2.5K uphill start and 2.5K downhill finish as the Kite festival had taken up the whole of the upper plato. We therefore had an adapted route whereby we had to ascend and descend the Deer park hill twice! Geoff did say it was a Marmite course and whilst I wouldn't say I personally hate it, I do prefer our normal route A.

I am very pleased with the time today as it was once again a sub 20 at 19:55. I did have to set off a bit quick to catch the main group though, as I got a little distracted by JPC and Alfie.  As seconds before the whistle was blown they turned up next to me with JPC trying (and failing) to tie his shoes laces, then me being handed Alfie whilst he had another attempt.

When we finally set off JPC and Alfie showed me 3 pairs of clean heels on our first descent of the main hill and cleared a path in front of me, that helped. On my second ascent though the effort from last night really caught me up and I seemed to be slowing at an alarming rate. Thankfully the turn appeared for the second time and I was on my way back to the finish. The course seemed almost full to bursting point and as we were coming back down there were parkrunners all over Ashton Court, a great sight.

Thanks to everyone who gives me a shout out it really is appreciated.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

242/365 A huge 5K PB by Big Kev

242/365 A huge 5K PB by Big Kev

I have been hoping and working toward the final 5K race in the GWR series for the last 2 months. I had a plan that tonights race would be a PB and one that would be so far out of my normal reach I wouldn't be tempted to go for it again. I am happy to report that my new 5K PB is 18:13 and I am very happy. With a lot of support from family, friends and running colleagues I had recovered sufficiently enough from my calf tear/achilles issues to post this time. The route is relatively flat and with the cooler conditions it was almost perfect. So, a big thank you form a very tired Big Kev.

It has been a day of great highs and yet it has also been tempered with some stark reality. One of my running colleagues and fellow 365 runner Jim Plunkett-Cole has suffered the loss of his mother after her short battle with cancer. Jim has been very gracious about my own challenge, and appreciative of the support the family has received from Macmillan. Our thoughts and good wishes are with you and your family Jim, keep on running.

To check out his amazing story use the link www.facebook.com/10kx365

Tomorrows another day, so bring on Parkrun in the morning!

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

241/365 A lovely 5K before work by Big Kev

241/365 A lovely 5K before work by Big Kev

With a busy day on the cards today and only just enough time now to get the blog out before my evening appointment, a morning run was the only option.

I kept the route simple, from home its downhill to Ham Green and the Penny Brohn centre and then about turn and then back up hill to home. The weather was perfect and I could have gone a lot quicker, but I used the time constructively to plan my work day and what I wanted to achieve.

So now to get this posted and then off out to work.

Bring on tomorrows Towpath race, who's with me?

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

240/365 Steady 6 mile summer run with GWR by Big Kev

240/365 Steady 6 mile summer run with GWR by Big Kev

As is normal on Wednesday a trip to GWR after work always brings with it lots of smiles. This week was no exception, most people are focused on Friday's GWR 5K towpath race and I am one of them. I therefore picked the 6 mile route tonight as it gives you plenty of opportunity to chat, run and enjoy the views.

Marcus, Leo and JPC had some lovely press via the Bristol Evening Post and their fund raising efforts have not gone unrewarded. So I did enjoy a more leisurely catch up with Marcus whilst running and we didn't have to stop at any Gromits.

With everyone doing such a good job at fund raising for their own good causes I am reminded that so many people are pushing my cause on my behalf and to all of you a big thank you.

I updated the facebook page with the up an coming race events towards the end of the year so go and check them out to see if you fancy joining me. Finally, I will be sending out invites to these events once I feel I have enough people liking the facebook page, so please share the links and lets get the numbers up.

www.facebook.com/bigkevsrun365challenge

Thanks

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

239/365 An evenings run with the sun about to set. 5K by Big Kev

239/365 An evenings run with the sun about to set. 5K by Big Kev

Going to keep it sort and sweet tonight. The weather, location and music on the run tonight were a perfect accompaniment to the 5K distance. I was looking for an easier run today as the legs felt a little heavy and I am ultimately in charge of how fast and far I go, so easy was in order.

Club night tomorrow, so another nice run is in order. I do have the Towpath race in my sights on Friday night, therefore it might be an easy run on Thursday as well.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

238/365 Out before the house was fully awake 5 miles by Big Kev

238/365 Out before the house was fully awake 5 miles by Big Kev

It has been a full on Bank Holiday weekend, with many things to do and people to see. The toll for this was an earlier entry to bed last night and a slower exit than normal this morning. Well, for most of the household anyway. I had the opportunity of sneaking out this morning before most of the house was awake, well actually is was just me and the cat that was awake!

After feeding Ninja, I headed on out and decided to just go as fast and as far as the legs wanted as yesterday's mammoth run would surely have some affect. However, 2 miles in and everything felt fine, so I extended my normal 3 mile loop to 5 miles and enjoyed the peace and quiet along the towpath and through Leigh woods.

Once home, the house was awake and preparations were being made for another busy day of entertaining. Tina's Mum and Dad were due in for lunch and then Jess has her garden party preparation for this afternoon/evening. It's all go in the Caple household, and some people wonder why I go running :-).

With a break from the phones and emails today, I will also be looking to update the facebook site with future events up until the end of the year, so please check them out and join me if you can.

A big thank you to Les Millar for his very kind donation yesterday, it was great boost toward the £1,000 mark (almost there).

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

237/365 1/2 Gromithon 13.3 miles by Big Kev

237/365 1/2 Gromithon 13.3 miles by Big Kev

What a fab day to spend running around Bristol looking for Gromits. Some clever people looking to raise funds for the Wallace and Gromit appeal had created 2 routes for runners, a full Gromithon (25 miles 67 Gromits) and a 1/2 Gromithon (13 miles 53 Gromits).  I shared the 1/2 route today with 5 other crazy runners, Natalie, Alison, Christina, Camila and Paul. The smiles and good wishes have continued today as we have visited the 53 Gromits, with photo's to prove it. Camila and Paul's efforts are of a particular note, Camila has guided Paul through our convoluted route today with only the odd incident. Paul's blindness doesn't stop his adventure and he felt that the route and distance today would be a good precursor to his Great North run, I am certain it will.

It was a very long time on our feet today as whilst the overall distance is well within limits the time taken (3:11) was a push. Therefore the final Gromit at the Pump House pub and the cheer from our supporters made the first punt of cider (and hopefully no the last) one to saviour.

Quick on our heels though were Leo, Marcus and JPC (with Alfredo) who were attempting and ultimately succeeding in completing the Full Gromithon. Leo also completed this challenge dressed as a 6 foot Gromit and whilst it was hot work he has made a lot of Gromit spotters very happy. Well done guys.

I have cover over 40 Miles again this week and I am looking forward to what next week brings, particularly the 5K towpath on Friday. However tonight will be about resting up with the family and enjoying the sofa.

I do need to also thank my new set of sponsor this week as you are making a real difference to me and Macmillan, thanks.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev 

Angie - Day 236 - 1.5 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Going out for lunch so a shortish run in the rain. Enjoyed it though.

Angie - Day 235 - 2.8 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Working from home so a run around the usual route.

Angie - Day 234 - 1.1 miles

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On a course all day at work so a quick run before leaving. Well when I say quick I mean short :-)

Angie - Day 233 - 4.3 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Run with Randle at lunchtime - therefore faster than yesterday! Good to be getting runs over 3 miles in given trying to achieve 1000 miles by year end :-)

236/365 Meeting new friends at parkrun 5K by Big Kev

236/365 Meeting new friends at parkrun 5K by Big Kev

Todays parkrun at Ashton Court was an event full of smiles, handshakes and hello's. This started immediately after I had parked the truck and had bought my parking ticket. Jim Plunkett-Cole and Alfredo the dog made an appearance this morning with Jim's daughter Hannah and it was great to finally meet face to face. For those who are unaware of what Jim is doing, then let me enlighten you. Whilst I have a minimum target of 5K everyday for the whole year, Jim, Alfredo and his friend Neil are running 10Kx365, wow. We both have our own reasons for running and are motivated by helping others by raising their profile through our crazy endeavours. I do hope that we get many more opportunities to run together before the year ends. To find out more about Jim and the team check out the Facebook page; www.facebook.com/10kX365

Parkrun also presented an opportunity for me to catch up with another runner I had want to meet for some time. Chris Blackabee, is a triathlete who just happens to be blind and we have been trying to organise a run together for a little while, so it was great to finally meet him and his triathlete partner this morning and finally introduce them to the famous parkrun hill.

Last but by no means least, it was lovely to see Jamie Richards and Wilson the dog out for their own Saturday adventure and I have to thank him for all his support this year and for the photography skills this morning.

Oh, and then there was the run, it was not meant to be much more than a jog, but once again it was under 20 minutes. The blame for this has to go to Marcus Kropascy who gave me a target to aim for. He of course was running well within his limits as he and Leo are running the full Gromithon (24 miles 67 Gromits) tomorrow. I will be just completing the half Gromithon (12 miles 53 Gromits) starting from the Victoria Rooms Gold Gromit at 11:30 tomorrow morning. Feel free to come and join in or give them your support in other ways as they are running for Wallance & Gromit's Grand Appeal. www.facebook.com/Gromithon

There are so many people, doing so many good things for others, it does make you proud to be part of this human community, long may it continue.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

235/365 A lunchtime 10K as you do! by Big Kev

235/365 A lunchtime 10K as you do! by Big Kev

Todays run was more about the timing of, rather than the time and distance covered. I have had a day of working from home which is always a nice change, even if just for the change in location. However there was a lot on my list to get through today and tonight we are hosting guests, so in addition there were also house tasks to be completed.  Lunchtime had therefore been allocated for running and following the pattern of this weeks series of unfortunate events I had not charged my Garmin up from yesterday, grrrrrrr.

Well at least I was able to eat lunch first and then head out after guessing the watch had had enough charge. I have Parkrun tomorrow and then the half Gromithon on Sunday, so today was meant to be a plod around. The nervousness of not knowing if the watch would last the whole run though, did lift the average pace above what I had intended, but thats ok.

I received some very kind works and sponsorship support yesterday and I must thank Mark Wilkins for all his effort. I know he is dealing with his own family battles, so his support is really heartfelt and I thank him for that and we all wish the family the best.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

234/365 A day of 'almosts!' 5K by Big Kev

234/365 A day of 'almosts!' 5K by Big Kev

An odd day today, as it says in the title, it has been a day that never quite got finished. This started right from the word go this morning. I had intended to get 3 tyres on the truck changed today, but for lots of reasons I have now opted to do all 4. However the tyre ninja that is Nigel Wedlake only had 3 available today. Then at work and without going into specifics every job seemed to be "almost" finished! This is not a criticism of work, it's just a reality at the moment with such a high workload and demand on our time.

I therefore had decided prior to my normal Thursday run home from Redland, that I would focus on a tempo run and at least getting one job finished! Ha, what chance did I have? Did I not pay any attention to the previous events of the day! So I get out of the car at the Tennis club in Redland, to check to see if anyone had handed in/found my white sunwise sunglasses (yesterdays hiccup). However, only to find that my ineptitude continued and I had made my way there, turned on my iPod and then looked at my wrist to note that my Garmin watch was not there! It was quite comfortably sat in my running bag at home, some 4 miles away, Doh! Just before Tina drove away I was able to flag her down, so at least I didn't need to run home (unlogged) and then run again.

So, with all this done and with the watch returned to my wrist, the only run I was going to complete tonight was a fast one, bugger.

Tomorrow's run will be first thing and slow, decision made.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

233/365 A runbristol GWR night -7.5 miles by Big Kev

233/365 A runbristol GWR night -7.5 miles by Big Kev

Tonight was a real pleasure as I met world Ironman champion - Chrissie Wellington MBE. Chrissie was part of the runbristol seminar held at GWR this evening. I was able to informally catch a few words with her before the presentation. I was then completely bowled over and inspired by her James Thie and Olympian Steve Brace.

Chrissie is the four time world ironman champion and also the world record holder of the ironman distance and I was keen to particularly ask her, and the team a question in open forum. My question was “After a hard race, how do you best recover and how do you reward yourself?” Chrissie would use a technique of eating burgers and kebabs followed by an active recovery session whereby, she would take a leisurely swim to help remove the residual lactic acid and stretch the muscles. James, whilst he excelled over the shorter distance, would look to reward himself with a bag of liquorice allsorts. Steve, on the other hand, would always be looking forward to his next race. And in the late 80’s, early 90’s became known as “Brace the Race”, for his love of competition - less reward and more maintenance of his body and mind. This is further inspiration for me on my daily trek.

My run today consisted of getting to the club early and being available to the numerous runbristol attendees. I took three runners on a shortened version of our 8 miles route so we maybe back in time and showered ready for the seminar. It was nice to chat to other Bristol running club members and listen to their exploits, undertaken and to come. A particular thank you to Robin and Philipa from Westbury Harriers as well as Will from GWR.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

232/365 A short run after a long day 5K by Big Kev

232/365 A short run after a long day 5K by Big Kev

Today has been full on from the start. From our business breakfast meeting at Gloucestershire College, or 3 interviews and then the drive home. I was always going to be too pushing it to make the Southville Runners club run, so it was nice to go and do just the minimum today and then get home for some food.

Tonights run was my favourite Leigh Court loop which I am sure has helped with all hilly runs this year, as now matter which way I go there is always a good climb on the run.

I am though looking forward to an early club run with GWR tomorrow and then listening to our guest speaker Chrissie Wellington, World Ironman champion. It is part of the runbristol build up to the Bristol half marathon, so inspiration will be a plenty.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 232 - 4.2 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Run at lunch time on my own. Lot slower without Randle :-).

Angie - Day 231 - 4 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Run with Randle at lunchtime. Legs quite heavy and right hamstring tight so took it steady. Under 9 minute pace though so pleased :-).

Angie - Day 230 - 4.7 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Good run out with Helen, bit slow as she is still finding her fitness but good to have a natter.

231/365 A steady recovery run 4.5 miles by Big Kev

231/365 A steady recovery run 4.5 miles by Big Kev

I kept today's run until late evening as I wanted to recover for as long as possible following yesterdays 14 miles. It was worth it as I was able to not only do the minimum, but a bit more and nice and comfortably. I headed off to the suspension bridge in the car and then made a loop of the Downs. I had intended to stop and walk back after I had covered the minimum 3 miles, but I felt so good that I just kept on going.

Just need to thank everyone I saw tonight who gave me a wave and a smile whilst out. Us runners are mostly a happy bunch, even when we are working hard!

I have a very busy day in Gloucester tomorrow, so I hope I can make it back for the Southville Runners Tuesday club run at 6:30pm, lets see.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

230/365 My longest run on the challenge 14 miles. by Big Kev

230/365 My longest run on the challenge 14 miles. by Big Kev

After a lovely evening with the Girls watching Anchorman and playing drink along a Burgundy my plan this morning was to go long and slow. The weather was meant to be nice and cool, so perfect conditions.

My loop starts from home and take me through Pill, across the Avonmouth M5 brigade and onto the start of the Portway. I then cover the entire length of the Portway and circumnavigate Cumberland Basin. Finally, I head across the pedestrian bridge and then onto the top of the Towpath. Once there I follow the towpath until I reach Garlic Valley and then head up in Leigh Court, along the drive way and then I am home. Whoop Whoop 14 Miles done!

I now intend to enjoy the rest of the afternoon as we have friends over later, but I will be putting in some time to the final touches to my fund raising efforts for the rest of the year.

I think it will be the minimum tomorrow.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 229 - 1.1 mile

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Just a short run this morning as off to view a house for second time. Really hope I like it! Very excited. Hopefully out with my old running pal Helen tomorrow.

Angie - Day 228 - 3.6 miles

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Back to work today so out at lunchtime. Had a bit of a dicky tum so had to go to the local Leisure Centre half way through the run. Still enjoyed it and a reasonable distance.

Angie - Day 227 - 2.8 miles

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Got home from Filey around 8pm and really didn't want to go out :-(. It had been nice all day and then sods law the heavens opened just as I was due out. Nevermind once out was fine.

Angie - Day 226 - 1.1 mile

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Early run (before 6am) as off to Filey for a couple of days! :-) Just the normal trot around the block, slow and steady.

229/365 Ashton Parkrun 5K nice to be back with friends by Big Kev

229/365 Ashton Parkrun 5K nice to be back with friends by Big Kev

This mornings run at Ashton Court felt like coming home after a long holiday, poignant really as both Ashton Parkrun and I had just had a holiday. Me in Gozo and Parkrun due to the Balloon Fiesta. A 5K with friends is always a little easier than normal, however this was hard work. The again and time under 20 minutes on that course is meant to be hard work.

There was also a lovely atmosphere this morning, as Alan and Sheila who first meet at Parkrun and then 1 year ago agreed to marry, will actually get married at Ashton Court tomorrow. Its as romantic as it gets. So the run today was a very happy one and intermixed with runners in veils and bow ties to celebrate tomorrow. Genius!

I was very lucky to be involved in the first ever Parkrun at Ashton court and the family just keeps on growing, we are all very lucky to have this on our doorstep. Long may it continue.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

228/365 A run after Mo's 5K Gold by Big Kev

228/365 A run after Mo's 5K Gold by Big Kev

It is so easy to be inspired by others at the top of their game and Mo Farah is someone right at the top of his. Following a nervous 12 minutes and then a blistering lap and a half, Mo showed the world why he is the best long distance runner of his generation.

I couldn't therefore think of a better time to go out and cover the same distance. Admittedly my route had a few inclines in it and I had to cross the road, but even with my obvious enthusiasm I couldn't emulate the living legend. So much so, that even downhill with the wind behind, I couldn't even get close to the first slow lap of the race!

Never mind at least I have a day job!

I am really looking forward to Parkrun tomorrow as its been a while.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Nicky: Day 365 + 1 and why not!!!

Nicky: Day 366 Long Sutton Lanes by Nicky.C at Garmin Connect - Details

Popped out for a wee trot just to see how it felt to run for fun instead of having too. Really enjoyed it - no pressure. Will just continue on this journey until I wake up one day & decide enough is enough! :)

227/365 A muddy plod around the woods 5K by Big Kev

227/365 A muddy plod around the woods 5K by Big Kev

Its been a busy day around the edges of work today and unless you have been hiding under rock today, you will have heard that it is AS and A level results day today. Jess received her AS results today and her well balanced and pragmatic approach to her results has meant that she was stressless and prepared for a plan B. Well plan B has been put into action and if she is honest with herself I think she was actually hoping for plan B anyway. She is now very excited and keen to put this into practice and she is now counting the days down until school starts.

My run therefore was dropped into a slot of time that afforded me some time outside. Fortunately for me this also coincided with a break in the rain. However the trails around the woods had already soaked up a lot of the rain from yesterday and today and were mostly mud. I did though at least think a little ahead before I left the house and I did put on my trail shoes.

The miles have really racked up this week and it will be nice to breach the 30 mile mark again for the first time in a month.

Thanks for all of your kind comments and support for breaking the 1000 mile mark yesterday and I hope to keep you all enthralled for the remaining days and miles up to New Years Eve.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

226/365 1000 miles completed by Big Kev

226/365 1000 miles completed by Big Kev

What a great evening, regardless of the weather. Tonight with the help of my friends I have broken through the 1000 mile mark on this challenge. The landmark was broken poignantly as I crossed the Clifton Suspension bridge on one of my favourite 10 mile runs. I need to thank Marcus and Paul for listening to ramblings, not only tonight, but all year. I also need to thank the support crew (the Caple clan) and all of my very kind sponsors who keep me motivate as I progress towards the end.

My plans for the big event at the end of the year have also moved a step closer and I should be able to finalise this at the start of next, so keep your eye out for the news online.

Thanks for all your support.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

p.s. the pic tonight shows why its Big Kev and not Average Kev (thanks for the reference points Paul and Marcus)

Nicky: Day 365 of 365 Yeovilton 5k race YAY YAY YAY!!!!!

Untitled by Nicky.C at Garmin Connect - Details

Well it has been a long 365 days. First time around I made it to day 296 but due to a bad prawn ended up in hospital with difficulty breathing, swollen face & hives & missed one day of the challenge. I duly started from day 1 again, so here I am after running 661 days (-1 a year ago) and have completed the challenge. I have loved it apart from the cold wet night runs. In the year I have done a total of 1425 miles. Not sure whether I will continue, but lets see what tomorrow brings. Initially I wanted to run a fully calender year, but now that I have finished - I will decide tomorrow morning.
Good luck to all those who are still in it.

225/365 5 miles with SRC, nearly there! by Big Kev

225/365 5 miles with SRC, nearly there! by Big Kev

I have spent a lovely evening with Southville Running Club tonight covering the 5 miles. Our route consisted of going from the running club along the Cut and on to the towpath. From there we stopped at the bottom of Knightingale valley and after everyone had regrouped we made our way ever upward. From the top we then headed towards Clifton Suspension bridge and then back down towards the towpath. Finally back at start of the towpath then it was a jog back to the club.

So with this 5 miles added the running total (I know) after tonights run is now 998, that means I have to break the 1000 mile mark tomorrow as the minimum distance each day is 3 miles.

As most of you know I have been slowly collecting the sponsorship along the way and whilst it would be nice to have matched the sponsorship total with the mileage total I am a little short. I appreciate I still have 140 days left and I am still confident that I can push through to target set with everyones help.

If any of you generous souls do feel inclined to help out the just giving site is at the bottom of the blog.

Bring on the big 1000 tomorrow.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 225 - 7 miles Blackmoorfoot Res

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Had a hospital check up through work. A mini MOT. All good but need to make sure I don't lose any more weight as BMI only just over 20% and fat percentage 21% whereas for my age should ideally be between 22 and 28%. Oh dear more cake then.... :-) Did explain I thought the main reason for weight loss was running every day. Had a good run when got home, the longest for a while. Off to Filey for a couple of days tomorrow so will only be able to do the minimum then.

Nicky: Days 360 - 364 Final few days

Nicky: Day 360 New Forest by Nicky.C at Garmin Connect - Details

Camping weekend in New Forest. Just the basic 2 miles as busy putting up tents.

Nicky: Day 361 New Forest by Nicky.C at Garmin Connect - Details

Aimed to do 3 or so miles, but got a little lost> Thank goodness for the map app on the iPhone. Lovely morning for a run though and the New Forest is a stunning place to run.

Nicky: Day 362 New Forest by Nicky.C at Garmin Connect - Details

Just the basic 2 miles in the pouring rain. Doesn't change the fact that the area is stunning to run in/


Nicky: Day 363 by Nicky.C at Garmin Connect - Details

Juniors club night - lots of track & speed work plus some exercises. Always a good fun evening & clocked up 3m.

Nicky: Day 364 Knole Rd by Nicky.C at Garmin Connect - Details

Penultimate day of the challenge. Due to work tele-conference it was just the basic 2miles along the good old Knole Rd.

Angie - Day 224 - 3.7 miles Morley

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Went out at lunchtime on my own. Was quite windy but enjoyed it :-). Got a MOT at hospital tomorrow lunch so no exercise until tomorrow evening.

Angie - Day 223 - 3.4 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Took a bit of getting used to but managed to get the watch to work finally! Run to Helme.

Angie - Day 220 (1.2m), Day 221 (1.2m) & Day 222 (1.2m)

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Well what a palava. Went for run after work on Day 220 and Garmin 205 died, not a beat from it :-(. So days 220 and 221 have no data despite doing the runs. Have managed to 'borrow' a Garmin 410 which has taken some getting used to and issues downloading the software. Day 221 used (link attached) but somehow forgot to switch off!

224/365 5K countdown by Big Kev

224/365 5K countdown by Big Kev

Not a lot to report about the run tonight apart from the nice weather, as its all about the countdown now. Its just over 7 miles to go until the big 1000 mile mark. So the plans are to save the threshold until Wednesday and share it with my running buddies at GWR.

Its nice to be back at work and to catch up on all the developments and I am looking forward to the next few weeks planning.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

223/365 Time to increase the miles 10K by Big Kev

223/365 Time to increase the miles 10K by Big Kev

I engaged the brain this morning and took my time getting up and out and once out I ran well within myself. I aimed for a steady 10K as the route is undulating and for a change it all went to plan. I am now at the 989 miles completed, so just 11 to go. I intend on running the minimum tomorrow and therefore lets see if I break through the 1000 miles on Tuesday or Wednesday.

It was nice to increase the distance today especially with no niggles, I am looking forward to get back to my Sunday morning runs and increasing the distance. Anyone want a running buddy?

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

222/365 A quick loop of home 5K by Big Kev

222/365 A quick loop of home 5K by Big Kev

After a long day of travelling yesterday my plan was to just enjoy today's recovery run around my favoured Leigh Woods loop. Well, I set off nice and relaxed up hill and then I ended up just going quicker and quicker. I am sure the inadvertent heat training of the week before helped and I finished up clocking a sub 21 min 5K, very happy.

My thoughts are already starting to turn to the half marathon season ahead and I am thinking I need to start to increase the mileage over the next few weeks to see what sort of pace I can carry through. I am also aware that the week ahead will provide a massive milestone as 1000 miles is on the horizon. With this milestone ahead my thoughts are now turning to possibly completing this challenge and how best to celebrate it and the support I have received from family, friends and Macmillan.

I will over the next few days be increasing the promotion of this wonderful challenge and the arrangements for the event at the end of the year. So keep on reading, sharing and contributing.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

221/365 #Selfie 5K by Big Kev

221/365 #Selfie 5K by Big Kev

This mornings run was all about the photo opportunities, its going to be a day of travelling as we depart back to the UK from Gozo later on in the day. Because of this I took the iPhone out with me this morning to capture some of the sights I have seen on this daily route. The profile of this morning’s run is therefore very stop start and to be honest I probably needed it, as the wear and tear everyone else has experienced this week has finally caught up with me today.

We will miss the island as we always do and we will be planning and plotting our return for next year when we board the plane. I have loved my week in Gozo even if it has be physically demanding in a way that I couldn’t have imagined before I arrived. It is safe to say that whilst I would love to go on and complete bigger events, such as the Marathon de Sabre, I have realized that my body is just not made to deal with the heat very well. A big thanks to Mrs C for keeping me topped up with fluids all week and keeping a close watch on me when I have been baked in the sun.

So off back to Blighty, what adventures do you hold for the rest of the year and the rest of this challenge?

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

220/365 Our last days diving 5K by Big Kev

220/365 Our last days diving 5K by Big Kev

The tiredness has most definitely set in today and this morning’s run was more about completion than any other aspect of running, form, speed and rhythm had completely left me. Should I be surprised, I think not, especially after all the effort put in this week. The group have made their way through to the last day and they along with family and I, enjoyed a wonderful meal at Latinj last night. This wonderful meal also included wonderful conversation and wonderful wine, which I am sure has had some bearing on this mornings run!

The route took me out toward Reqqa point again and as it was earlier I did expect to see less people, but the opposite was actually true. From walkers to runners and even cyclist, the earlier the better seems the rule.

Todays dives are amongst the best on the islands and it started with the Inland Sea. This is a tunnel that has forced its way through from the sea to make an inland pool, large enough for small boats and divers alike. The dive consists of reaching the tunnel entrance and then dropping down into the dark and the blue. It takes your eyes a few seconds to adjust to the change in light, but once it does you are treated to the most amazing blue light show. Photos don’t seem to do it justice, it just has to be experienced to be believed. Everyone managed perfectly well at the hands of our Divemaster Katie, while I took James even deeper to complete his Advanced open water Deep dive. All to soon we are turning for home and the safety stop is reached in good time. We made an earlier start to make sure we were first in and we were and we weren’t disappointed.

The afternoons dive was a repeat of the previous day- The Blue Hole dive. With confidence abound, everyone had a great time. We had the site pretty much to our selves (once under the water) and I only found the one piece of treasure today! Our week of diving is at an end and the time seems to have flown by, I guess that’s what it does when you are having fun.

We are already looking forward to next year. Thanks to Gozo, Atlantis Dive Centre and the dive team, it’s been a great week.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

219/365 Jelly, Jelly, Jelly 5K by Big Kev

219/365 Jelly, Jelly, Jelly 5K by Big Kev

Todays run also doubled up as a recce of this mornings proposed dive site. The wind had freshened last night and I therefore needed to check the north side of the island for diveability. However I really didn’t need to worry as there was not a breath of wind this morning and the sea was flat calm. I did though cover the route intended, as it is just so beautiful. I first passed the Nunnery and they were singing at what I would assume was morning mass, then I passed the salt pans with the husbands and wives busily working on collecting the salt and then refilling the pans. Finally, I passed the Gozitan women out for their morning swim. The Gozitan women have an innate ability to be able to float in the sea without fuss or the need to swim. They conduct the days gossip without any chance of getting water in their mouths as they seem to bob like corks in the sea.

The first dive though and even after the recce, didn’t go to plan. We reached Ghasri valley and proceeded to kit up at an excellent speed. The walk down the 101 steps was completed without incident, however upon entering the water we could see jellyfish everywhere. Now as two people in the group were wearing shorties, this really wasn’t an option as the valley is narrow, meaning there is not a lot of room for maneuver. Reluctantly we agreed to sack this particular dive site and headed further around the bay where we were able to dodge the Jellies more successfully, its safe to say they have arrived!

The afternoons dive was much better as it was on the west of the island at the Blue Hole. The group has been building up to this all week and they rose to the challenge perfectly. Everyone was good on air and maintain a good depth. I even picked up some more treasure along the way (very happy).

 Last days diving tomorrow, sad times!

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

218/365 Hills, hot and the sea 5K by Big Kev

218/365 Hills, hot and the sea 5K by Big Kev

Even though Marsalforn is a seaside town, the hill to one side is quite severe, I thought it would be a good idea to try something different this morning and tackle the big hill. Well I tackled it and won, but only on a points decision. Half way up I did have a flash back to the Welsh Castles Relay and the Cotswold Way relay, but this time with 30 degree heat and high humidity chucked in for fun! When I reached the top there was a man sat in his car and he did give me a strange look, as if to say 'really, you are doing this for fun?'.

The view from the top however was breath taking (no pun intended) and I can see that the sea state overnight has remained very calm. We are very luck to have had so many day without any wind affecting the sea.

The dives today involved the swim through at Xlendi and then an afternoon dive was with James on his own to complete the navigation element of his advanced open water course. He plotted his way successfully around Xwenji bay and increased his confidence to boot. The rest of the group had the afternoon off, as the wear and tear that is associated with a diving holiday had begun to show in ernest. Tina and Jess therefore became informal tour guides as some of the group headed into Victoria and the other had some accidental sleeping. I wonder what treats the girls will return with from Victoria?

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

217/365 Hot, hot, hot 5K by Big Kev

217/365 Hot, hot, hot 5K by Big Kev

I kept to the same route as the last 3 days as I am starting to feel the benefits of all of this heat training. I also had the benefit of a slightly early night and arose half an hour later than normal. I was therefore keen to make sure that I could run in the heat and it topped 29 degrees for the run this morning, but I kept the pace up and the legs kept working. Considering all the conditions, the terrain and the exertions on the body I was very pleased with a 22 min 5K. I am also begin to work hard on my wetsuit tan!!!

After spending what seemed like a longer time cooling down than I actually did running, I finally made it to the shower. We had already agreed the dive plans for the day and it was now just a case of meeting at the dive centre to collect tanks and kit. We were then off to spend the day in, on and under the sea at Mgarr ix-Xini. The group have bonded excellently and I can now concentrate on James and the completion of his Advanced Open Water course.

The two dives both brought with them treasure (of a sort) and we now have new toys to play with!

I may try a different route for the run tomorrow, just to mix things up.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

216/365 Open Water Divers 5K by Big Kev

216/365 Open Water Divers 5K by Big Kev

The minimum run was a lot slower this morning compared to yesterday. This was mainly due to the exertions of the day before.  Whilst it was of a similar route, I did cut the distance down to take into account the lack of energy and the heat (28 degrees at 7:00 am). I completed the minimum 5K distance with a smile though due to the location, but as a consequence of the location a considerable amount of sweat was also used.

Yesterday was a fantastic start to the diving holiday and all of the students performed admirably. Their first 2 open water dives were at Xwenji bay and provided laughs and sights that will never be forgotten. Our welcome back to the Atlantis Dive Centre is always a warm one and it always feels like returning home thanks to Brian and Steph.

Today however was all about qualification! The sea conditions around the island are perfect, there is no swell or waves to speak of and the visibility is fantastic. With this in mind and my main aim being to make sure everyone reaches their qualification status, we headed of to Hondaq for the day. The site slowly slopes toward Comino and allows me to pick the depth for the required skills, as well as introducing the students to a little more depth and experience. I am very pleased to report that without any incident or delay the whole group passed their open water qualification.

We celebrated in typical Gozitan style, by top bombing from the jetty wall adjacent to the beach. A lot of credit has to go to the students, now divers, Neil, Jane, Ellie, Beth, Therese and Alex. They have been a pleasure to teach and I am very much looking forward to enjoying the rest of the week with a very diligent group of divers.

Bring on the rest of the day.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

215/365 Go Go Go in Gozo 4 miles by Big Kev

215/365 Go Go Go in Gozo 4 miles by Big Kev

Gozo is an hour ahead of the UK meaning that it feels like I have had an extra hour in bed, so getting up early is not a problem. Plus with temperatures in the early thirties, the best time to run in Gozo is first thing. This has two benefits. Firstly the only other people out before 7:00am have a similar idea or are heading off to work, so the roads are quiet and hassle free. Secondly the temperature is not much above 20 degrees and is just about bearable.

The route I have run many times takes me around the north coast of the island, from Marsalforn to Reqqa Point. I pass many of the dive sites that are famous to the island such as the double arch reef, Xwenji Bay and Billinghurst cave. The sea was flat calm and the visibility was great, above and below the sea. I was able to recce our dive site for the day (Xwenji Bay) and the open water students were in store for a treat! All too soon however, I needed to head back as the temperature was soaring and it was beginning to become hard work.

I am loving todays route profile as it shows that todays run is along the border of the Mediterranean sea. The rest of the days activities will be in the Mediterranean, result.

Lets see how the students enjoy the rest of their day.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

214/365 My first Midnight mission 5K by Big Kev

214/365 My first Midnight mission 5K by Big Kev

With a long day ahead of us and lots of travelling to get through before we get to Gozo, I headed out just after Midnight from home. This would mean that the run would count on the 2^nd and yet I could also get my head down for a couple of hours before we set off to the airport.

The run itself was lovely (kind of), the roads were very quiet, the lights were on, but the heat was very unusual. I can still remember back to early morning or evening runs in January when the roads were quiet, but the temperature had plummeted meaning that I was wearing every item of clothing I own. This run on the other hand required just a vest, a reflective bib and a pair of shorts. The 5K was a quick one as I had been fully turbo charged on Cherry Coke (full fat version) and after just a smidgen over 20 minutes I was home and off to bed.

The trip to Gozo is one that is always full of adventure. It starts in the truck, followed by a minibus, then a plane, another minibus, a ferry and finally topped off by another minibus. All in all it is an 11 hours from door to door, but is broken up by the changes in transport and the ever changing scenery. Therefore the earliest of early runs was well justified!

Here is to a great weeks diving.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev