334/365 Parkrun and flyers 5K by Big Kev

334/365 Parkrun and flyers 5K by Big Kev

What a fantastic welcome this morning from the parkrun family. Prior to the race Geoff gave me and the New Years Eve event a shout out and the response was almost overwhelming.

The run formed its predictable pattern that I experience week in and week. I watch all the new participants race off at the start full of adrenaline and ambition and then upon reaching the incline/hill/sheer face grind to an almost faltering walk. This is the point at which the more experienced Ashton Court groupies steadily trudge on by. Today's run can also be described as bracing. With the sun low on the horizon and the temperature not much above 5 degrees the lungs sting from the over expansion on the way up the hill. Then at the turn there are a few beautiful steps of respite without the burning in the chest, this is just enough time to bring back a modicum of control. All to soon though the downhill pace increases and the lungs burn again but for a different reason. The finish line now beacons and I encourage all around me to push on and reach their goals.

My goal is now firmly focused on December the 31st at Ashton Court and at 1:00 pm where I will be completing my last 5K and everyone is welcome. It would be nice if everyone could provide a £5 for 5K donation, but I won't stop anyone providing more!

The flyers, flew out today and the response has been astounding I look forward to everyone joining me  to celebrate on either a 5K run or 1 mile walk and for as quick, or as long as it takes.

I have been told by several people I have meet on the challenge this year that this little run of mine has also inspired them to take up their own challenge. This in itself further inspires me to keep going and reminds me why all the cold nights, hot days, snowy mornings and rainy afternoons have been worth it.

I have just over one month left and the full support of all of those around me. So bring on December, I am almost in the home straight!

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

www.macmillan.org.uk

Big Kev

333/365 Started with a Tipple and ended with an Angel 5K by Big Kev

333/365 Started with a Tipple and ended with an Angel 5K by Big Kev

Tonights run was part of the revised running calendar for the Long Ashton running group. They aim to get in a monthly run that starts outside of an off licence (Little Tipple) and finishes at a pub (The Angel). All I can say is, Genius!

A big thank you to Dave Engledew for leading the group and to Gil and Vicky for keeping up and showing me a new route. Thats another 5K done and day 333 reached. Does this mean I am half way to hell????

Jess has been working hard on a flyer for the NYE event all evening and I will post it up tomorrow, but a big thank you to her as well as she will also be getting up early with me tomorrow to hand these out a parkrun in the morning.

So time for bed now as its been a crazy week and it looks like it will continue into the weekend.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 333 - 3.9 miles

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Lunch time run. Very windy and quite cold but still enjoyed it.

Angie - Day 332 - 3 miles

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Working from home so went out around 8. Ran down into the village but didn't particularly enjoy it as lots of school kids milling about, taking up the pavements :-) Still good I managed to keep up the 3 mile average. I think the 1000 miles for the year may still be on. Fingers crossed for a good December.

Angie - Day 331 - 4.5 miles

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Good run at lunchtime. Legs felt surprisingly fresh after last night which was encouraging.

Angie - Day 330 - 6 miles - club run

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Decided to brave it and go back to the club thanks to some cajoling from Helen H :-) They have a group which doesn't go quite as far as the other 2 groups so ideal. Really enjoyed it, about 7 in the group, and amazingly I was near the front for the majority of the time. Need to sort out my head torches et though as couldn't see much on the country lanes. Unfortunately I some how managed to switch my watch back on in the car on my journey home so my run is recorded at 12.7 miles! I wish :-).

332/365 Where's my wallet 5K by Big Kev

332/365 Where's my wallet 5K by Big Kev

The pattern for the day was set rather early this morning as you can probably guess from today's title. It is surprising that something that most people use every day and is integral to just about every financial decision can me misplaced so easily. Tina and the girls as well, believe I do this on purpose. Well this morning I can confirm that there was no predetermined plan to hide my wallet, it just happened all on its own. I reached a point 30 minutes into looking, retracing my steps and even considering phoning the bank to cancel all my cards that I realise where sit was.

It was in fact very safe under lock and key, inside of Tina's car parked inside of a secure car park. However there was no way I could confirm this until Tina checked at lunch time. So, rather grumpily I headed off to work and decided to wait until the end of the day to recover my property.

When I get to work though I am confronted by my own list of jobs and the overwhelming majority require the need for the contents of my wallet, Grrrrrr.

Still, after that the day became far more productive and I have been able to get out on tonight's run with a lot of my list ticked off. I was also able to go out wear a lot less layers than the last few days, which made the run even more enjoyable. I decided to head off into Leigh Woods using my head torch to light the way and was rewarded handsomely. The silence was once again beautifully deafening and considering that I am only a mile away from the road, it still surprises me. All too soon though I am heading back towards the road and I can hear the traffic and more so the police helicopter that seems to be hovering over an area around the Bristol Suspension bridge. Lets hope everything is OK, however all the traffic was backed up when I reached the A369, so perhaps not.

My focus now falls to advertising the NYE 'End of the road' event which will take up most of the weekend. For those that haven't checked out the event please have a look and join up if you can and if you can't then feel free to share it amongst all your contacts.

www.facebook.com/BigKevsRun365Challenge/events

Also don't forget why I am doing this:

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

331/365 A day of good news 6 miles by Big Kev

331/365 A day of good news 6 miles by Big Kev

Today will be a day I reflect on for some time. For those of you that don't know I am an Independent Financial Adviser and my business partner and I have worked hard in the last few years to establish our business in an age of adversity. We have embraced the new regime and our new regulator and as a consequence we have interacted with them far more than ever before. Therefore when we received an invite to a lunch with the Chairman of our regulator the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) we expected this to be a big event with lots of tables, a lectern, a powerpoint presentation and a global update on industry changes. So consider our shock and surprise when we turned up at the venue and we realised that the event was far more low key and consisted of just one table and 9 other guests.

The upside is that we were able to hear how our interactions effect those steering the policy and how going forward the changes that have been imposed to clean up the industry has benefits for all of us. So a lot of good news.

Then I come back to an email that confirms my application for my New Years Eve run has been approved. More great news.

Finally I have been able to get in my run with the club tonight and complete a couple of bits of work as well, so a productive day, great news.

I will focus more on the logistics of the NYE over the weekend when I have chance to broadcast it properly as I now need to organise the support team for the event.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

 

330/365 A cold lunchtime run in Gloucester 5K by Big Kev

330/365 A cold lunchtime run in Gloucester 5K by Big Kev

A big thank you to Marcus for my final fund raising instalment, you more than anyone else have covered the most miles with me, so thank you for the company as well. This week has also seen the total continue to rise, so once again thanks.

Not to much to report today on the running front as it was a head down and get it done day today. The temperature today helped this along as it was barely, if at all, above freezing. It is nice though to have so much open space available to me even if it is fleeting in the time I have on a lunch hour.

The rest of the day has been spent planning and completing the daily tasks, right up to the point where we made our way to a business networking evening in Cheltenham. The evening was a celebration of business success and an opportunity to network with like minded individuals with no other agenda than sharing what works best. So refreshing to have an evening where it wasn't about other peoples angle.

Bring on another big day in Cardiff tomorrow.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

329/365 A downhill jaunt 5K by Big Kev

329/365 A downhill jaunt 5K by Big Kev

The day has flashed by today, just like most Mondays do. For a change though I was working from home as I had a client appointment in Bristol and the rest of the team where in Gloucester. So I am indebted (as always) to Tina as not only did she arrive home, cook tea and encourage me to eat it, but she also made sure I got out and ran. There were some shopping errands that needed to be done, so Tina offered me the option of a downhill run and a lift home therefore allowing me an lot easier jaunt than usual.

Tina dropped me almost at the top of the hill in Abbots Leigh and then headed off to Sainsbury's in Ashton. My job was to then follow on behind at a steady pace as it is now mostly downhill. I took my head-torch as there are a couple of sections that are not lit and are potentially quite difficult to navigate. I have found this little torch from B&Q to be a genius addition to my winter running kit and has allowed me the freedom to run all most anywhere.

Now back at home and blogging I can say that it was a real pleasure to change the route and the effort involved. Almost all of my runs involve a a hill or lots of hills, it is a fact that Bristol is not flat so hill work is an every day event.

My effort though again pales into insignificance compared to plight and fight of others. Macmillan helps the whole family in their coping with cancer and I thank them for helping those very close to me in the tough times they have faced. Have a look at their great work for me please.

www.macmillan.org.uk

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 329 - 3.5 miles

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Working from home so went out for run before 9. Wished I'd had longer as felt good. Hopefully running with Randle tomorrow so will have to pick up my speed a bit :-)

Angie - Day 328 - 5 miles

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Was only intending to go out for a mile but actually felt quite good so carried on :-) Saw Benny from the running club and ran about three quarters of a mile with him which was nice. Think legs are okay now :-)

Angie - Day 327 - 1.2 miles

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Short run as off to Elland Road this lunchtime :-) shins still sore but hopefully getting better.

Angie - Day 326 - 1.2 miles

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What a difference 24 hours makes! Feel like I'm coming down with a cold and shins hurt (especially the right one). Nice steady run.

Angie - Day 325 - 4.1 miles

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Worked from home - good run. Ran a little bit around the new cemetery. Very quiet with only 2 or 3 graves so far which is good I guess :-). Felt good and healthy.

328/365 A steady Sunday run 5 miles by Big Kev

328/365 A steady Sunday run 5 miles by Big Kev

I listened to my body this morning and rather than rushing out the door to get out with one of the many Sunday morning groups, I took the opportunity to slow the pace down and go out when I was ready.

There was a downside to this though, everyone and their dog was already out on their Sunday adventure. Everywhere I went I was either on the edge of being mown down by mountain bikers throwing themselves down what ever decent they could find. Or there where parties of walkers and their dogs oblivious to the other trail users and intent (or so it seemed) on trying to trip me up.

In the end though, I was able to battle my way to the towpath and run alongside the river. The tide was in and there was a fine mist rolling over the surface. With not a breath of wind in the air the only ripples on the surface where being made by the ducks and gulls as the moved in and out of the river banks in search of shelter and food. The silence was beautiful and the towpath was surprisingly empty, so I was able to settle into a gentle rhythm as the miles just passed by.

When I reached the end of the towpath and turned up through Ham Green lake to home I spied a lonely fisherman on the bank who possibly couldn't of been wearing any more layers. I wonder if he regrets his decision to go out this morning, I hope not.

Once I ran through Ham Green past the cricket club and then the school I can see home and I know that its just a half a mile climb to the end. The time has flown by today and I feel the effort has been well managed, all in all a great run.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

327/365 Cold parkrun friends 5K by Big Kev

327/365 Cold parkrun friends 5K by Big Kev

Another milestone reached today, not a massive one, but still it shows the end is in sight it was the first sub zero run of winter.

When I got out of the truck in the car park of Ashton Court the temperature was -1 degree. This meant that there was a thick frost on the grass and when we reached the puddles on the top of the course they had a thick layer of ice on them.

Before then though, I was able to chat with a lot of friendly faces complete with rosy cheeks and cold toes. Geoff and the team did another amazing job of putting this all together with smiles on their faces. I am really looking forward to repaying their effort by volunteering next year. However with only 5 park runs left I am going to use every one as my 5K daily requirement.

I get such a nice welcome every time I turn up an everyone is genuinely interested in the challenge and progress made to date. There are far too many people to list, so a big thank you to all of you that spoke to me today and wished me well, you know who you are.

My post yesterday also showed that most of you do read to the end and thank you Nett Porter for your kind donation to Macmillan this really keeps me going.

Macmillan helped a dear friend and his family last year deal with his final days and your donations mean than many more families will be able to benefit from the amazing angels.

www.macmillan.org.uk

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

326/365 Back on home turf 3 miles by Big Kev

326/365 Back on home turf 3 miles by Big Kev

Firstly a big thank you to Andrew Malloy for taking up the sponsorship challenge yesterday, its really appreciated. Secondly a big shout out to my self appointed twitter champion Kev Smith. He has been a man possessed today and has raised my profile no end. Thanks guys.

Today's run was back around my favourite lap of Leigh Woods. The trees are becoming really bare now and leaf litter lays out a multi coloured carpet in front of me which makes me smile. In the deepest part of woods on a fast downhill section I am approached at high speed by a 20 week old black and white Springer Spaniel. She was pleased and confused all at the same time that this goliath of a man dressed in fluorescent yellow clumps toward her. When we finally meet and join her owners we agree she has obviously way more energy than all of us put together, as she was able to run circles around me and them whilst we all said our hellos.

The woods today were full of dog walkers and the trails were full of mountain bikers trying to get their early weekend fix of the fresh air. I have seen a lot of this route this year and the seasons have shown me how beautiful it can be at any time of the year. I really am lucky to have this on my doorstep.

With 39 days left and the end in sight I did make a call to help move the sponsorship on. Now I realise that I haven't been the best at fund raising and I may need to may a request everyday for the rest of the year. So don't just shy away from my requests, as I know we are all bombarded daily with requests from all and sundry to sponsor us for this or that. However we all ask with the best of intentions and in a culture where we are so generous and yet, so reserved it is difficult for me to keep asking for fear of offending so please bear with me if you have indeed sponsored this crazy man on tis crazy challenge.

So to remind you of why I have chosen Macmillan as my partner on the challenge I will give you a link to their site, so you can read and see why they need all of our support so much.

www.macmillan.org.uk

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

325/365 Head-torch run on the back lanes 3 miles by Big Kev

325/365 Head-torch run on the back lanes 3 miles by Big Kev

As expected today was a long one and yet it also brought with it a lot of clarity. Some of it work based and some of it to do with this challenge. From the work perspective there has been a blockage in the system that has now extradited itself from the process and freed up the flow of business. The challenge clarity however only ever presents itself when I stop and think about what has been achieved to date.

I have covered 24 miles already this week and I am also trying to cram in a full days work, as well as fund raise, be nice to the family and manage the blog etc (this list is not exhaustive).

So I am going to reduce the mileage to the minimums for next week and create some space for the rest of it. I am therefore going to ask you all once again share this far and wide. I also now believe that the end is in sight, so the time for asking nicely is over, I now need your support through sponsorship.

I am due to provide an update for the Bristol post next week and I would like to show them that the fund raising is moving forward at a pace similar to the miles. I have raised to date £1280.00 and thank every single one of you for your belief and support, so come on everyone else the gloves are off lets show the public at large what we can do.

So please, log in to my just giving page (the links below) and lets get the total moving again. Macmillan do all the real work, I just provide you with the anecdotes from my day, if you want more then lets start splashing the cash. This will not be my last request for sponsorship I only have 40 days left.

Thanks

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

324/365 Winter 6 miles with GWR by Big Kev

324/365 Winter 6 miles with GWR by Big Kev

An odd night tonight at GWR, as a whole the numbers were down from a normal week. Yet the overwhelming majority decided that 6 miles were for them. The conditions were cold but mostly dry so at least it allowed for a good chat. Tonight I was able to catch up with Lucy who I haven't run with for some time. At the start of our run I did apologise to Lucy for being in a bit of a down mood an there is no particular reason for it as a lot of good things have happened today. I just don't seem to be able to shift the melancholy mood, I think an early night is on the cards.

The physical element of the running is a bit more manageable today as the calf is hanging in there, so the strapping might come off tomorrow.

Tomorrow also brings with it another trip to Gloucester as we have meetings all day, therefore it will be a late run when I get home. I am thinking the head torch might come out for a run around the woods.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 324 - 2.4 miles

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Shorter run today as didn't feel too great :-( Never mind tomorrow another day!

Angie - Day 323 - 4 miles

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Another lunch time run. Slight variation on yesterday. Beautiful sunny day but very very cold, brrr. Set to get to sub zero yesterday so better dust off the hat and gloves.

Angie - Day 322 - 4 miles

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Drizzly day and got a bit soaked but a good run never the less. Will miss my lunch time runs around Morley next year, relatively flat ;-)

323/365 Southville recovery run 5 miles by Big Kev

323/365 Southville recovery run 5 miles by Big Kev

I was a bit nervous about tonights run, not because of the conditions or the welcome I would receive from Southville running club. No, I was nervous about how my body would hold up and particularly my calf. So when I entered the South Bank venue I was really pleased with the warm welcome and then to hear that Dave was offering a 5 mile recovery run around the centre of Bristol.

The route took in some excellent sights of the centre of Bristol, including the floating harbour, Queens Square and the jewel in the crown Brandon Hill with a spectacular view of night time Bristol. The speed was unimportant as the company and conversation kept my mind elsewhere and allowed me to run without worrying about the calf.

I was also able to catch up with Laura Collacott who has been accepted and is now training for next years Marathon Des Sabre with her father. This truly is a mammoth task, I have friends that have attempted and completed what some would say is the toughest foot race in the world and they are humbled by it. I am continually inspired by people's determination and stubbornness, attributes I have had to adopt on this very challenge. Laura gave me a new way of saying that tonight in French, its 'têtu'.

May I continue to be têtu for the rest of the year.

So a hot bath, some food and a cider later and I am feeling far more relaxed than a few hours ago.

Once again thank you to all of you, that share the Facebook page and have kindly donated you have kept me going.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

322/356 Happy Mondays in Gloucester 5K by Big Kev

322/356 Happy Mondays in Gloucester 5K by Big Kev

A fab weekend has been followed on by a great day in the office today. We had a little space to catch our breath today and it showed. My run today was always going to be a lunchtime affair as the weather gods seem to be telling me the nights are about to get a lot colder and an early morning was just not an option today.

I do have a lovely route that takes me through Highnam and next to Lessington woods towards the Over Farm Market, so I am lucky. Once I reach the Farm Market then its a 180 degree about turn and I head back toward the office. The only downside today is that I have tweaked my calf again, as I stepped off a kerb. I could make up some inventive story about being chased by wild animals, or saving a pram from the road, but no I just stepped off the kerb.

Since getting home I have taken some precautions and I hope everything will be ok tomorrow (fingers crossed). I am Bristol based tomorrow and it would be nice to get across to Southville Running Club tomorrow night, if I can.

A big thank you to me neighbours Pete and Diane today as their donation tonight really topped of a great day.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 321 - 3 miles

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Really didn't fancy it today and thought I would do the minimum but once out I got into my stride. Explored a bit of Almondbury which was good, now know where the library, primary school and a bit of a park are :-) Dad and Heather visiting my new house today which I'm looking forward to. Happy days :-)

Angie - Day 320 - 1.2 miles

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Oh dear another busy day so just the minimum again. Hopefully a bit longer next week!

321/365 Long Ashton Sunday group run 7 miles by Big Kev

321/365 Long Ashton Sunday group run 7 miles by Big Kev

What a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning, 7 muddy miles with smiling friendly faces. This morning's route took Andy, James, Colin, Maggie, Marie, Emma, Steff and myself in a figure of eight around Ashton Court and Leigh Woods.

we started with a climb from Ashton Court car park through the Deer park up tot he gatehouse, then once crossed into Leigh Woods we made our way towards the towpath. After regrouping we exchanged anecdotes and made our way towards Nightingale Valley. It only seems like yesterday I was climbing the valley on Southville's Nightingale Nightmare race, but in fact that was 3 weeks ago, wow.

I am now home in time to be showered and dressed ready for lunch with the family before we put Katie back on the train to uni. We have had a brilliant weekend with lots of eating, drinking and most importantly laughing. From cocktails in TGI Friday's, scaring children while watching Thor and even eating Doner Kebabs (sorry Jamie).

It is has been a full on weekend, but it also seems to short as we now won't see Katie for another 5 weeks. However when we do, it will mean that I have only 10 days of the challenge left, so lots to look forward to.

A big thank you to Paul and Lucy for their very kind donation and comment. The fund raising is starting to really kick in now, thanks everyone.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

320/365 The tree of knowledge is bare 5K by Big Kev

320/365 The tree of knowledge is bare 5K by Big Kev

My visit to Ashton Court's parkrun has now become part of my Saturday morning routine and this mornings run really showed off the change in seasons. The tree in the photo normally has an information sign on it, so it has been affectionally nicknamed the tree of knowledge for obvious reasons.

Well the seasons have now stripped it of all of its leaves and left it bare to the elements. For us park runners though it is still our congregation point even though its sheltering abilities have been vastly reduced.

The run itself and the welcome from my parkrun friends still brightens my whole weekend. Its not an easy run and I think thats why I like it so much. You can test yourself as hard as you like depending on the conditions and how you are feeling on the day. There is always (in my case anyway) someone quicker than you and this always gives you a target to aim for, alternatively you can help others achieve their goals by encouraging them on to new heights. Todays new height (PB) wasn't quite reached for Alan Wilcox, so a plan is going to be put into place for him to reach his parkrun PB as he has helped so many this year reach theirs.

45 days to go and it will all be over, I am starting to get excited by the prospect of reaching the end of the road and yet it still feels a long way away yet and there is so much to do yet.

I have been in contact with the relevant parties regarding the event on New Years Eve and assuming I can get approval we are just about there. I will need some 10+ marshals and a first aider. So I am putting a shout out for these as I need to include the names with my application. any takers?

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

319/365 A early children in need day 3.5 miles by Big Kev

319/365 A early children in need day 3.5 miles by Big Kev

With a fun packed day ahead of me I headed out early this morning. It was quite an effort in the end as Jessica had offered last night (foolishly some might say) to massage my legs and feet. When she got to my achilles she found all sorts of lumps and bumps and worked through them slowly. The relief that was initially felt was repaid this morning by the lack of true mobility. Love you Jess.

However the conditions and terrain this morning deflected my attention from the aches, pains and slow progress as it was so beautiful. The final leaves of Autumn are now hanging on and the colours are even more vivid, but winter is coming.

Even with my slower than normal progress this morning there is something so satisfying about moving faster than rush hour traffic.

Things after that though really did start to move at pace, as I was due to be in our Gloucester office first thing. The plan was to be there for most of the day, well at least until I needed to get back to Bristol to pick Katie up from the train station. The plan was to pick her up at some time around 4pm and yet Katie seemed to make up her own train times and arrived in Bristol at 2:50pm. I really don't know how she does it, but I am sure that there is some batting of eyelids and smiling with a head tilt involved.

We are therefore now settled down for the evening and on a children in need day I am sure there will be some laughing and crying to come.

Bring on Park run in the morning.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 319 - 1.1 mile

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Up early so I could do the run before work another busy day...

Angie - Day 318 - 1.3 miles

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Working from home so went out at lunch.

Angie - Day 317 - 1.1 miles

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Early morning run as out at lunch and governors meeting after work. Brrr was cold.

Angie - Day 316 - 4 miles

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Another run at lunchtime but this time at home. Ran past Castle Hill and towards the turning to Honley. A lot of uphill going out but down on the way back which is good.

Angie - Day 315 - 4.2 miles

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Good run at lunchtime - variation on the usual route. Can't believe I only have 50 days to go!!

318/365 Brrrr out and back 5K by Big Kev

318/365 Brrrr out and back 5K by Big Kev

At the moment I am only too aware of the major issues that are effecting the world and I do want everyone to lend a hand, wallet and thought for all of those less fortunate than ourselves. For now though I am going to concentrate on the running and at least try and help one group of individuals at a time and leave the better able and more qualified to help fix the rest, until I am asked.

Just for the record my comments are relative to my day and the experiences I am having at that time.

It was noticeable chiller today as I left the house in the dark and I kept seeing in my mind today's headlines about months of cold and snow ahead. It seems to me like it was only yesterday that ventured out on a cold January day and into 4 inches of snow. Has it all come around that quick that the snow will be back with us in a matter of weeks.

I kept it simple tonight after last nights detour and just followed the out and back route from home. The leaves now cover the payments from side to side and make it relatively slippy under foot. At this rate I will need to be wearing trail shoes on the pavement.

I may go out early tomorrow as after 5 weeks of waiting we get Katie back for the weekend and have lots planned for her. Especially as this would be her second birthday weekend (she is turning more into the Queen by the day).

One final note, I am now in the final paperwork stages of confirming my New Years Eve run, so spread the word its looking good. Assuming we aren't under 4 foot of snow!

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

317/365 Club run and a new route 7 miles by Big Kev

317/365 Club run and a new route 7 miles by Big Kev

It was a lovely evening's run tonight as the head was clear and I had a great night's sleep. I have had client appointments all day, so the run came at a prefect time to allow me to process the events of the day.

The run also happened to be on GWR's club night and additionally allowed me to catch up with friends. The days are passing by as quick as ever and the interest continues to build, so thank you for all your questions, keep them coming.

I did though create a new route tonight as we normal offer either a 4, 6, 8 or 10 mile explorations of Bristol. Well I did start with the 10 mile group and then after 3 miles, I took the decision to deviate from the group as the pace was overall a little to quick for my tired legs. I therefore joined up with the 6 mile group and finished with an overall distance of 7 miles, sorted.

I might do that again next week.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

316/365 Head banger of a day 5K by Big Kev

316/365 Head banger of a day 5K by Big Kev

I am cutting to the chase today. I have experienced another new event on the run365challenge. I have to a degree not mention the daily aches and pains too much on this challenge and I hope only when they have hampered the efforts involved. Today though was a novelty, I had a migraine headache this morning that involved the full on flashing lights that resembled a temporal rift (nerd reference and I have never really seen one so I am only guessing really).

This has though left me all out of sorts, all day. So I was actually quite nervous about my run tonight as the pressure is mounting and I really didn't know what would happen.

To my delight, the cold air and the deep breathing helped immensely.

I knew there where going to be dark days on this challenge and I do refuse to give up. Call me stubborn, bloody minded or obstinate, I don't care this thing is bigger than just me, as I have had so much wonderful support and it needs to be repaid.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

315/365 Monday dash 5K by Big Kev

315/365 Monday dash 5K by Big Kev

Keeping it simple today as there was a lot of good things going on. I find the time I am out running is a great time to reboot. It allows me some perspective time and today's run was perfect, as I was far more productive this afternoon.

Tina is keeping me well fuelled even on a packed lunch day and today was no exception, thanks lovely.

Right, tomorrow is 7 weeks to go and Tina and Jess are now ganging up on me and using the Christmas word, just because its 6 weeks until Christmas day and they have seen the Coke advert. Christmas is coming (....insert expletives here....)

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 314 - 6.2 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Very cold and frosty morning. Met Helen for the first time in a few weeks and my first run back in Meltham since my move. Really enjoyed it but was very slippy under foot so we took it very steady. Good excuse I suppose to go a bit slower :-).

Angie - Day 313 - 1 mile

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Busy day so up and out fairly early. Just a mile but not a bad time (8.45) given up and down a hill.

314/365 Birthday celebrations on Remembrance Sunday 5 miles by Big Kev

314/365 Birthday celebrations on Remembrance Sunday 5 miles by Big Kev

First, things first, Happy 20th Birthday to my daughter Katie who is currently at Kent Uni. Have a great day and we will see you next week.

The run this morning was therefore a run of reflection, especially as it is her Birthday and it is also Remembrance Sunday. The conditions were clear and still which made for a perfect run along the riverbank this morning. I knew that I would be around half way into my run at 11:00 am, so I kept note of the time on my watch and paid my respects at the appropriate time.

Lest we forget.

After I set off again I reached garlic valley and to my surprise met a race marshal. I was then told that the Extreme ravine race had just set of and would be encircling the towpath and my intend route home in a 10k and half marathon race. I therefore made a very quick decision to set off up Garlic valley and back towards home as I didn't want to disrupt anyone's race. I made it to the top of the valley before I met the first runner coming in the opposite direction, phew. I then proceeded to cheer on the runners and wish them well for their race. It was great to see Lucy Ellis from GWR who was first lady at that point. An easy run back up the driveway from Leigh Court and I was home, all I needed was one lap of our road to make it to 5 miles.

A beautiful run on a beautiful day. I have added some photo's of the route and I hope you agree with my sentiment.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

313/365 Sightseeing 10K by Big Kev

313/365 Sightseeing 10K by Big Kev

After an extra long lie in this morning and a few home tasks completed I decided to venture out between the showers. I wanted to run somewhere different today, which is becoming very difficult if I am setting off from home, as I have pretty much covered every conceivable 5/10K route from my front door. I therefore drove up to the Clifton Suspension bridge, parked up and set off from there. Whilst the route I covering wasn't overly new, it was a change and they do say a change is as good as a rest.

I have added in some pictures on my sightseeing tour today as we are very lucky to have so many interesting things to see in Bristol. I first crossed the Suspension Brigde and headed towards Durdham Downs. With a large loop completed I have the perfect vantage point on Seawalls looking back up the River Avon and the bridge. Closing the loop by heading back into Clifton Village, I head up and along Royal York Crescent with so great view of Dundry and beyond. Finally I am back at the Bridge and cross it for the second time to finish. A great sightseeing tour.

That's another 30 miles done this week and I would like to keep this as the average now up until the end of the year, lets see.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

ps anyone up for a run tomorrow morning, but not too early?

312/365 End of the working week 5K by Big Kev

312/365 End of the working week 5K by Big Kev

What a hectic week, two birthday's in work, interviewing, seminars and much, much more. Oh yeah and a bit of running.

Tonights run was another head torch run and allowed me to run the trails in the woods. It really is so peaceful and at the same time exhilarating. What was noticeable was the drop in temperature, the crescent moon and the Owl that didn't like my head torch.

I think I will take it easy this weekend in preparation of what is to come over the coming days and weeks.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

Angie - Day 312 - 3.3 miles

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First time ever I've run every day at lunchtime. Was only going to go out for a mile but as usual got carried away. Well once you are changed and out it's rude not to do a bit more isn't it?? :-) A shortish run planned for tomorrow with a bit longer on Sunday.

Angie - Day 311 - 4 miles

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Was due to be meeting up with my friend and ex colleague Randle today but unfortunately he couldn't make it so out on my own again :-) Felt a bit better today so a tad faster than the last few days.

Angie - Day 310 - 3.6 miles

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Same theme - another lunchtime run :-) back of my right hamstring hurting so a bit shorter today.

Angie - Day 309 - 4 miles

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Another lunchtime run, nothing exciting to report.

Angie - Day 308 - 4.2 miles

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Good run at lunchtime, going to try and do over 3 a few times this week to make up for the weekend.

311/365 towards the end of the day 5K by Big Kev

311/365 towards the end of the day 5K by Big Kev

Not too much to report on the run today as the day itself has been packed full to bursting point!

So when I got home it was a very quick change and then straight back out of the door. Tina had already made a wonderful homemade dinner, the only thing that was missing was the dinner guest who was out running. So many apologies later (and rightfully so) and we were able to discuss the events of the day and the ways forward.

I am eternally luck to have the support of my family and friends to keep me on track. As I have mentioned many times on this challenge, it is far less about the mechanics of covering the minimum distance, in fact that's worked out to be the easy bit. It's far more about managing the daily logistics and the balancing act that is required by all around me to let me get this done.

We are starting to believe that we can reach the end now, so this is a plea from me to them. We have 54 days to go and then I promise I will have a break and pay you all back for your kindness. We are raising some much needed funds for people in far worse situations than we currently find ourselves in. In that we are being rewarded and we will recognise that once we all reach the end of the road.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

310/365 A very wet GWR 6 miles by Big Kev

310/365 A very wet GWR 6 miles by Big Kev

Well I do believe the expression 'soaked to the skin' perfectly sums up our club run. 6 miles on the wet, dark and windy streets of Bristol, done!

The weather effects so many aspects of this challenge and none more so than reminding me that it is much easy to run in a group of people. Not so much for the sheltering ability to be honest most people are sheltering behind me when we run. No it's more the ability to get lost in the conversation and as a consequence letting the miles flow by.

I had the pleasure of meeting some new people to the club this week and therefore new to my challenge. I had started to forget what that initial puzzled expression looked like. The one where they are trying to work out if perhaps I am a little unbalanced and require medical care, then the 'oh' moment appears as they work out this is no ordinary challenge and I don't need to be taken into care for my own safety.

Their enthusiasm, enthuses me to keep on going, along with all of the support from friends and family.

Once back at the club, showered, changed, feed and watered we had our London Marathon draw and the good news for friends and family is that I didn't get in. Congratulations to Tara, Chris, Bastien and Joe all very worthy recipients of our club places, they will do us proud.

I am reaching the end of logistics planning for the end of the year and should be able to release some big updates next week!

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

309/365 A lunchtime opportunity 5K by Big Kev

309/365 A lunchtime opportunity 5K by Big Kev

I had the opportunity to get some head space at lunchtime so took it. The weather looked good so I didn't think about it for too long. The route was one of my favourite routes around Leigh Woods and today I meet a few familiar faces along the way, however I didn't expect to meet Michaela Strachan coming in the opposite direction with several friends and lots of dogs!

After the run I also caught up briefly with my neighbour and again he promised sponsorship, I have been so bad at getting it there and then, but I know he is good for it. However, upon regailing the last few adventures it dawned on me that I have passed the 1400 mile mark and I am well on my way to 1500. I may even get to 1600 by the end of the year, thats bonkers. I have been averaging to date 4.5 miles a day, so certainly well above the agreed minimum on most days. Today though I was more than happy with my 5K, 3.1 miles.

With lots of work on I know I have to grab the opportunity to run when it presents itself, so I am sorry if I miss a few people over the next couple of weeks, life is getting in the way of the social running you have planned.

I am off to Cardiff tomorrow for work, so I am hoping to make it back to GWR's club night tomorrow as it is the London Marathon draw and the inaugural food night. What delights will it bring?

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

308/365 Head torch required 5K by Big Kev

308/365 Head torch required 5K by Big Kev

Tonight's run was a late one and so the conditions required a few more layers than normal (brrrrrrr) and the route necessitated the introduction of a head torch (excellent).

One of the upsides of being so late when I set off, means that it did at least allow me to venture on to the back roads as I knew there would be little or as in this case no traffic at all.

There is something so peaceful about running on your own with a head torch on and no street lights or traffic to spoil the experience. The eerie shadows created by the torch as you bob and weave your way keep the heart pounding and the senses on alert. The sky was at least clear tonight, but that brings with it a fall in temperature and means its almost glove weather, boo.

The route from home is basically a steady 2.5K up and then 2.5K down, so I am able to just focus on one foot in front of the other on the way out and then relax on the way back down.

Its been a busy day and another benefit of going out late is that all that is left for the day is a shower, some eating, chatting and then blog and bed. So with all of the components complete including the blog bit, I suppose its time for bed.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev  

Angie - Day 306 2.1 miles & Day 307 2 miles

Untitled by AAllum20 at Garmin Connect - Details
Oh dear blooming Garmin playing up, grrrr. On day 306 kept losing satellite and battery went flat Day 307. Hopefully normal service will be resumed tomorrow!

Angie - Day 305 - 1.1 miles

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Up early this morning as needed to do something at lunchtime then off out straight after work. Looking forward to a lovely curry in Holmfirth and then the ZZ Tops and LiveWire concert. :-)

Angie - Day 304 - 4 miles

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First day back after my hols and a nice longish run at lunch time. Good to be back! :-)

307/365 Out before the rain 6 miles by Big Kev

307/365 Out before the rain 6 miles by Big Kev

The days are now really flying past and today was no exception. Its hard to comprehend where the days, weeks and months have gone at times and especially so on this challenge. When I do get chance next year to sit down and review all of my blog entries, I might start to understand the enormity of what I have taken on, but for now it's all about today and then tomorrow.

Today was a slower start than normal and once again a big thank you to Tina for the cup of tea to wake up to. We sat an chatted for a bit and then both of our spidey senses made us check the weather for the day. The weather review was a well timed one, in that I had approximately one hour before the rain set in. Therefore its a very quick change and I am out the door. I opted for the downhill start today as I hadn't really warmed up. Warmed up, I had no chance of that as when I stepped out of the door, it was bitterly cold. Not 'Winter is coming' cold, just a cutting wind cold. I was very glad therefore of the respite given to me by the hedgerows and then the trees as I entered Ham Green and then down to the towpath. The wind was now with me and therefore it didn't chill the bones as much.

I was looking for a steady plod around but the condition and impending rain moved me along nicely. With the towpath section done and the turn just after heart attack hill and under the railway arch upon me, I was once again happy to be in the woods. After the long climb to the top of Paradise Bottom, I made my way back towards Leigh Court Mansion and then onto the driveway to home. It really is a wonderful 6 miles in any weather, but it was particularly nice today as when I rang the door bell at home the rain had just started to fall, result.

It will be 8 weeks to go on Tuesday and I will keep you all up to date with the final run for the end of the year. So from here on in, could I ask that you all share the blogs/facebook page and lets see if we can start the fund raising efforts again, as before we all now it we will be at New Years Eve.

Bring it on.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

306/365 Ashton Court Parkrun 5K by Big Kev

306/365 Ashton Court Parkrun 5K by Big Kev

The morning after the night before. I am current sat blogging with the wind howling past the house and the rain battering the windows. This makes me very happy as it also appears that this weather is here to stay for the rest of the day. I made a massive effort to get up and out early this morning so that I would have the rest of the day available to work if needed. If I am going to run early on a Saturday it might as well be with the parkrun family. At this point I do need to apologise to Deb Peters as I know I said I wasn't going to parkrun last night, but in my defence I was talking a lot of rubbish last night.

Once at parkrun the welcome is always warming and its great to see so many friendly faces. It was nice to have Marcus back with us even if he was still functioning in a different time zone. I had no plans or intensions on setting a PB today and it was far more about getting around safely. Well that exactly what was accomplished. A very respectable time and the hamstring loosened, so all in all a good run.

It was also excellent to see the numbers swelled by the Southville running club (SRC) with their own monthly parkrun event. It seems that everyone enjoyed the hill as you all still had enough puff at the end to cheer everyone home. Well done.

Right, that's today and yesterdays blogs written and posted, so time to prioritise the rest of the day.

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev

305/365 Dinner on the run 5K by Big Kev

305/365 Dinner on the run 5K by Big Kev

It was an early start to the day as Jody and I were speaking at an event held at Gloucestershire College. The event itself went well, but it did take up most of what was already going to be a busy working day.  So by the time we returned to the office for the day job we were pushing hard to get it all in.

With a long standing dinner arrangement already made and the offer of a lift there and back, I had the opportunity to take on board a few drinks. For almost the first time this year I had completely forgotten to plan in a run. It wasn't until the late afternoon that I realised that I had neglected this and that the timeframes available as a consequence of this were very tight, very tight indeed. We have a particularly complicated case we are all working on in the office and it meant that we have individually picked an area to complete so that we can move it forward (a good team effort). So priorities dictated that this had to come first (rightfully so) and I was able to push our lift back a bit to allow me to get home against the traffic and still fit in the run. For note the traffic going northbound on the M5 was nose to tail for almost 30 miles, wow, thank goodness I was going southbound.

Once home the run was a simple out and back, but was covered at some pace, regardless of the tight hamstring. Autumn is most definitely here and yet the temperatures are varying wildly from one day to the next. I was absolutely boiling on my run and sweated profusely as a consequence. Something I am sure I paid the price for later.

Still the run was done, I was cleaned and showered and made it time for our lift. Dinner was fabulous and it was great to catch up with good friends. The head was a bit sore this morning and the lack of proper hydration made for a good hangover!

www.justgiving.com/kevin-caple

Big Kev