My Forum

I haven't run for 2 years and I'm nearly wetting myself with excitement for this event. I love this run. I remember running through the city centre previously (through The Hayes). It was amazing to see and hear thousands of people running through the pedestrian areas. It was excellent. There were a couple of annoying (and seemingly pointless) bottle necks, but, I liked the flyover bit. I quite like a route change too. I wish they would bring back the marathon and let the finish line be within the stadium again. Wow. It was perfect.

The best marathon I've done is London, and Cardiff is the best half marathon. The complete worst was Victoria Falls. That's what put me off for two years.

Anyhoo...woohoooooo. Can't wait.

Ignore this. Sorry.

PeterPan wrote (see)

Right boys & girls, returning to the ipod/mp3 debate. For those of you who normally run WITH one, three questions. 1)  did you find it harder to run without it? 2) did you run slower/quicker without it? 3) did you enjoy your run more or less without it?

I normally run with one in training. There were points in the run that I wished I could hear certain songs, which would have given me a lift. For example, when I looked at that fake 'Wall' that some genious (not) decided to remind me about. And whilst running through very quiet areas whilst my bones were making more noise than the crowd.

But, I'll never wear one again, not even in most of my training runs. It's so cool to hear what's going on around you and not just listen to the same old songs, which can make a run repetitive. Also, it's good to learn to concentrate on keeping your thoughts and motivation in order, and yourself on form during the harder parts. I think that running without one is an edge for this reason.

But, each to their own. I don't think it's fair to ban them and not enforce it, though. There are people who would have loved some music, but decided to play by the rules. In my opinion, if you've broken the rules, then you haven't 'taken part'. You've simply run by your own rules, which is a half effort, I think.

Karl wrote (see)

"I tend to agree that some people have wild expectations, and want a flat, scenic course for £ 1.00 entry fee and a Harrods goody bag stuffed with freebies."

haha

Maybe there's a market for this type of race. Each person could have a personal trainer, encouraging them along the route. "You look fantastic! Keep it going, you're a star! Your hair looks fabulous!"