Why I don’t always belong - Droitwich 10k - Worcestershire Midweek Series
Вставка
- Опубліковано 8 вер 2024
- Welcome to my 3rd race video in the Worcestershire Midweek Series. This is the Droitwich 10km (although it only measured 6 miles) which started and finished at the Churchfields Farmhouse. The first race was back in May at Hagley, race 2 was at Arrow Valley Park and next month is the last race, which is over on the Clent Hills.
I’m always as positive as I can be on my videos but sometimes that isn’t always the case in real life when I race. So instead of masking the truth I ended up sharing more than I thought I would. Hope you still enjoy the video and realise I am just as human as everyone else. We all have our own vulnerabilities.
Thanks for watching 😊
Music: Feeling Fine
Musician: Uncleboris
Site: icons8.com/music/
Rachel, I do almost all my running and racing ( when I get round to entering ) on my own . You do know me from parkrun , Redditch Tri etc .
I’d happily do some training / events with you and car share etc .
Your running is phenomenal of late , totally in awe .
You would definitely need to slow down on training runs with me in tow mind you 😂
I’ll message or catch you when I see you .
X👍🏻
Thank you…the stealth commenter reveals himself 🥷
Rachel - there are two things I want to say.... 1) really good vlog, totally relatable and you're definitely not alone, I have massive respect for sharing this side of things and yes, one day I really hope you can have both! 2) It is so wonderful to see your channel growing, you're producing some great content, very engaging, please keep on keeping on!
Hi Andy, thanks so much for your kind words, it really is appreciated. As a smaller channel, I can’t believe how well received this video has been. I still lack quite a lot of confidence to film around others but when I look back at my first videos, I can see I’ve improved 😂
I’ve only ever been at 2 races where you’ve run. 1 way back in 2019 in Gloucester (20 mile), which is where I originally found your channel. Then at Newport but didn’t get chance speak. Hopefully at some point, our paths can cross so I can say hello properly!
Thanks again Andy 😊
EDIT: if you can’t see your comment, I haven’t deleted it. UA-cam just has a glitch that won’t allow me to find them or reply. I know Kevin McCarthy is one. Sorry to anyone else as well.
The biggest heart felt thank you to each and everyone of you for watching, liking or commenting on this video. I was in 2 minds as to which version I showed you, but so glad it was this one.
If you’ve left a comment, I promise to get back to you in the next few days, I wasn’t expecting to see so much support and it’s taking me a little longer to get back to everyone, but I will 😊
Thank you again ❤
Great race footage and narration
🤯 WOW!!!! Thanks so much for watching and putting a comment on my video 😁 I smiled from cheek to cheek when this popped up!!! Thank you 😊
You know I just randomly clicked on to your video. It was lovely! Really transparent and open about the ups and the downs and that’s very commendable! Like you say everyone posts a picture of every run being fantastic when it’s just not the case. Running in general is one of the best things to ever happen to me, but I don’t love every single run!
Hi Sam, thanks for your comments 😊 If this is the first video you’ve seen of mine then you’ll see it’s a little more ‘honest’ compared to my others. Normally it’s just the run side I focus on but I do sometimes touch on the race nerves and racing alone. I better not get too honest or everyone might start switching off 😂
I concluded my Derby Half Marathon video with the words …
‘Running is my best friend and always will be’
@@racheld1844the honesty would be more likely to keep me watching. Too many vloggers are too scared to admit to fears / perceived shortcomings etc. It’s refreshing. Really refreshing!
So glad you shared your honesty at the end of this video. Thank you ❤
In all honesty this video changed my life for the better 😊
Sorry to see you looking so fed up there, Rachel. I'm an anxious introvert around people. I'm comfortable being alone but always have that desire to be more sociable, even though the idea usually makes me nervous. I got chatting to one or two chaps I'd interacted with on Strava, when did my last race, which was good, though I soon run out of small talk. Hopefully you can find a way to get to a race with some company before long.
Thanks Mark. I think we’re pretty similar in that we’d like that interaction but when we get it, it doesn’t always feel right. I like being my own boss and have no problems being on my own but sometimes it’s a lonely place to be.
@@racheld1844sorry, I keep commenting 😂. But such a lot of what you say rings true for me. I’m an ambivert I think (introvert and extrovert rolled into one). I like my own company but sometimes want to connect but get nervous thinking about it. I joined a running club in November (so scary). They’re super friendly, yet only now am I starting to feel like I fit in (a bit). I reckon the truth of it is that many people at races would LOVE to talk with you, and I bet there’s LOADS feeling just like you.
@@conradburdekin722 - it’s always at the back of my mind as to whether to join a club but then some of the practicalities and realities mean it’s not for me. I do get to see many local club runners at parkrun though. It’s great to hear your experience though. I think that initial hurdle of ‘walking through the door’ is the hardest part 🙂
We all running with you every race Rachel
Thank you 😊 I do sometimes image you all sat there on the other side of the lens sometimes.
I know how you feel 💛💛
It’s been nice to hear it’s not uncommon to feel like this. Not nice that others feel the same but just knowing I wasn’t the only one 😊
Thank you for your honesty Rachel, if I hadn't seen that final clip I would have kept thinking that you're absolutely not bothered about turning up to races alone. When I raced in Spain last Winter and was alone, I used you as an inspiration, because I saw you show up to races on your own and absolutely smash it. The "feeling like an alien" you describe isn't something I often feel on race day as I usually have someone with me, but I do feel it in many social situations where I am just the lonely goat and it's not much fun, so I can relate on some level.
Thanks Chloe, making these videos, there’s always a decision on how much we want to share. I’ve always looked up to your ability to travel so much and settle in so well. I guess we get good at what is our usual. It was about 10/12 years ago that I decided to put myself in uncomfortable (for me) race situations by forcing myself to turn up alone. I don’t always feel I’m out of my depth when I turn up on my own, but after so long, it just brings all the ‘bad’ ones back.
This was a really brave thing to post. I have really similar feelings to you when I turn up at races. You see lots of groups of people standing around laughing at the start line and feel like an outsider. Even at my local Parkrun the people I know are those I’ve met outside running! But… there is no one way to do it right. One of my passions other than running is music, and I spent years feeling anxious about going to gigs without friends. Then a few years ago I thought “fuck it” and just started going on my own. I found it very liberating and get a huge amount out of it. Running seems different somehow, though - which is odd given music is a communal experience and running is ultimately just you running the course, even in a pack. Not sure I have a conclusion there… other than huge respect for keeping on getting out there and taking part despite your brain telling you otherwise. That takes strength!
Hi Nick. That was an interesting comparison to how you felt about going to see live music. I watch an outdoor channel called Spend More Time in the Wild. In the introduction Abbie says ‘you’ve got to want it more than you are afraid of it’. It’s such a powerful quote to keep focus that the end result is better, and if it’s not…at least you gave it a go 🙂
Thank you Rachel for your honesty it’s not always easy and it comes with the territory! You are an absolute star and inspiring! If I lived in your neck of the woods I would be definitely looking to run with you! Your journey over the last just proves how good you are along with having to tackle those moments of self doubt! Keep on rocking it!
Thank you, that’s lovely to read. I’ve had so many positive comments, in fact, every single one has shown nothing but support for this video and it’s been nice to read how others deal with a similar race day experience 😊
First off, congratulations on a super strong race, especially as you were training through it. But mainly, big thanks for your raw honesty about your race experience. I relate to that very deeply. So much gets said about the social experience of races and being part of a community of runners, but most of the time that hasn't been my reality, showing up, running, and leaving alone as you did. I don't have any special words to offer or clever tips for enjoying it more, but I respect the way that you continue to show up and race hard. Beating them is the best revenge, and I wish that I was fast enough to do that myself.😁
Thanks Eddie 😊 It’s been so lovely to hear everyone’s experiences of how they feel being alone at races and what they do to change things. I’m glad so many can relate to it but it’s also seems to be a side that no one has addressed before. We nearly always focus on the physical achievements but the other half of our make up is what’s going through our minds at the same moment. I’m pleased I posted the video. I wasn’t even sure I would. If I chopped the last 2 mins off, no one would be any the wiser.
Hope you’re able to share at least some of your races Eddie 🙂
@@racheld1844there’s a community called Fordy Runners set up because of this exact thing - turning up at a race and not having anyone to talk to. They may be worth having a look at?
@@racheld1844 Thanks for the reply, Rachel, and thanks again for your honest video. I haven't made any running videos but there seem to be a few formulas that people generally follow. Clearly you aren't the only UA-cam runner who has felt the way you did and I can imagine that it seemed risky to do or say something different. All the best for your upcoming training and races. I always look forward to your videos!
@@conradburdekin722 - I’ve seen their T-shirts at races 😁 I’ve not really seen many of his videos. There’s so many good channels out there that I’d run out of time to run if I kept up with them all 😂 It’s a bit like the lonely goat club I’m a part of. It means you can turn up to a race and look out for other ‘goats’, knowing that they aren’t in in-person clubs either. A nice lonely goat couple did speak to just before I got in the car and we asked each how our races went. I hadn’t spotted them as they weren’t in their goat T-shirts.
Thank you for this video Rachel and thank you for your honesty! You are not alone in finding running a solo and lonely activity. For the majority of my races I arrive alone, run by myself (this isn't a problem thouigh!) and then at the end, hang around for a bit then slope off alone. I am in a small local running club, so sometimes there are a group of us at a race, but these events are few and far between. Stay strong, we are all here for you!
Hi Craig, thank you 😊 That’s nice to hear it’s not always the case, and that sometimes, even if it’s rare, you did get to run with some club friends. I’ve had better experiences recently, with not having to go to every race on my own but the times that I’m by myself, it’s not always that easy.
This resonates, so thanks for sharing. Being a lone wolf has its perks, but it can stifle the potential richness of shared experience, and there’s parts of us that need it. Otherwise we may sometimes struggle to find an answer to “what’s the point”. Good luck on your journey.
Thank you 😊 I guess that’s just it. I’m very capable of standing on my own 2 feet but sometimes, that’s not what I want to do. Whether I want to or not, I’m just glad I don’t give up on what I know is the right path forward.
Finding a positive and healthy running community has definitely added a lot to my running - yes you might have to compromise some sessions for a club social but the plus side have more than made up for it.
We had the penultimate race in a local 6-race series this week and over 20 of the club were there plus others cheering on. Not bad for a small running club from a small Cheshire town!
As for honesty - too much on socials is all the glitz and this just leads people into false expectations and disappointment when reality doesn't match. The people I choose to follow are the ones who are honest - not every run is a good one. But, as my coach says... "love the grind!" Turning up and putting in the work pays off, no shortcuts!
Thanks Iain 😊
6 races for a league 😱 I’d only be half way through! Sounds like a lovely set up with everyone showing their support for other runners in the club. One day I may consider a running club, but for now it’s just not something that would suit me. Luckily I’m not always on my own at races so it sometimes can be a positive experience.
Good luck with your final race Iain 🙂
I love watching the positivity in your videos and find it incredible how busy you keep with actual races. I kind of like my lonely runs often starting before 5 am ,its kind of my me time, but i really get that last bit. I am not lonely generally, have a wife and family at home and grandson visiting every weekend. My wife has MS so whilst she has been supportive of me since i started running a few years ago i can't drag her along to support me at events where she would be hanging around in agony for hours.Its just me and i look around and it seems everywhere i look everyone else has this personal support group with them before and after and its just me as the billy no mates.I hate the word but got to admit it sometimes makes me feel slightly "Jealous". When i ran my first marathon a few months back the start and finish was only about 5 miles from my house so my stepson drove his mum and my grandson over just in time to see me finish and share that moment and it really meant the world to me but it just can't be the norm. Love the honesty at the end of this video and really rang true to me ,take care of yourself. I don't think it would be giving in if you let off a little on the really busy schedule?
Hi Ollie. Thanks for sharing your experience. Family dynamics can play a big part in who wants to and who is able to show up for races. Last year at the Shakespeare Marathon I turned a corner to be met my mom, dad and sister who had unbeknown to me, turned up to support me. It was difficult for them to get out, but they’d made it and it was the best part of the day.
I think with my schedule, it has got a bit too busy over the last few months. It wasn’t intentional to book so many races but how things turned out I think I may have bitten off too much. I only have 2 races booked now. After mid August I have nothing planned …yet 🤦🏻♀️
As someone who trains on their own, goes to events on their own and comes back home on their own (both home and abroad) I can totally relate to the end of the video. Don't get me wrong, nothing will stop me from attending things I want to attend and I have a great time when I am there on race day and I'm a real talker on the start and finish lines, but there are so many pockets of time where it would be nice to have company (even if it was just the travel and nothing else).
I have attended events with others a few times who don't run but have come with me but I invariably get quite anxious about whether they will be bored waiting for me to finish (solely the longer events) and it's on my mind throughout the race at times and so sometimes it makes sense that I do it all by myself.
Doesn't make it any less lonely at times though, especially when people have others meeting them at the end and I'm just straight off on my way again like the littlest hobo.
Hi Chris. Having someone chatty like you at the start line would be great for someone like me because I’m terrible at starting a conversation going. I completely get how not having someone at the finish line can be demoralising. You get the high of completing a race then it’s like oh, is that it 🙁 I’m completely with you though on not letting it be the deciding factor on getting to do these races. Not every race is the same when it comes to experiences so who knows what the next one may bring 😊
My main sport was cycling and running is something ive turned to for various reasons. I got into cycling in my early 20s and made solid friends I'd train and race with and holiday with.
For running I'm on my own but i think we all become stranger as we get older. I don't think I'd want the hassle of making new friends now. I mean it would be nice to have a running group of friends but now we all have careers, families, mortgages or none of these things it's just not the same.
That’s a good point about getting older. I’m not really a social person anyway. Not so much with age for me as I’ve always been that way. I don’t do too well in a big social scene so that wouldn’t be what I was looking for too 🙂
Time freedom can be a big part of the reason we can or can’t make commitments. Our lives can be very busy.
I get this. My first proper race I turned up on my own absolutely terrified. I joined a running club but most members had no interest in entering events so I was often their only representative, even at the race which runs through our village. I'm so lucky to have found somebody to go to races with in the Midlands, even if they all have loads of stupid hills! I remember that climb back up to Churchfields from Droitwich Half 😱
Hi Paul. I can see it being a bit disheartening by being a club member but still heading to races on your own. That’s so nice to hear you have someone to share your running with though. I think that’s an even better option than a running club 😊
I don’t think there’s anything flat around here 😂 To find the flat races, it normally needs a bit of a trek in the car.
Have you anything booked up?
@@racheld1844 we're both doing Great North Run then I'm doing Kielder Marathon in October. More hills! 🙈
@@herecomesbod - Kielder marathon sounds brilliant Paul. Least the hills will be picturesque 😁 Enjoy the Great North Run too.
Good on you that you found the guts to show a little peak in behind the curtain of the social media facade of all good times. Being real is good and scary at the same time.
I know that feeling like an alien feeling all too well. Not only showing up to races on my own, but pretty much everywhere there is a group of people. Even at family gatherings I usually feel like that. I am autistic though which probably has something to do with it.
Thank you! Yes, it’s harder to be honest because you might think people don’t want to see that side. But really that’s probably what they do want to see, it’s more relatable and shows real life emotions, not just the good ones.
A bit like you, I roll that out into all other situations of gatherings. I’m more of either one on one company or very small groups. Any more and I’m quiet and a bit out of my depth. Glad the video was something you were able to connect with 🙂
Great video.Keep up the great work.!
Hi Keith, thank you 😊
Thank you for sharing with such honesty. I also attend races alone and have felt the same on occasion. Funnily enough I ran the Droitwich half this year finished last and then went straight home after seeing everyone enjoying a chat and coffee…never felt so out of place. But I’ve reconciled that running can be as social or unsocial as you want it. I run for me but having people like you sharing their experiences is so so valuable…I’m so much slower than you but have learnt a lot! So thank you for this. I did catch you on New Years Day at Brueton to say thanks for one of your videos that helped me get my 10k PB. You’ve also inspired my daughter too who can see that ladies can run well…she is now doing Parkrun!
Hi Andrew. I came back here to re-read some of the comments and saw that my reply to your comment wasn’t here. I definitely remember writing one because I remembered what you’d wrote, and my reply. Whether it never got published at all and then disappeared, I don’t know. But anyway, apologies if it looks like I’ve ignored your nice comments because I definitely didn’t 🙂 I’ll re-write it now.
First of all, it was nice to read everything in your comments. The part where you said you see everyone in their groups enjoying the coffee and a chat is pretty much the same to how I feel when I’m racing alone. I’m not very good at putting myself forward to make even small talk and even if I do, it’s not quite enough to gatecrash someone else’s post race group get together.
Thanks for coming over to say hi at Brueton and congratulations on your 10k pb! That was so lovely to read that your daughter has taken up parkrun too. I would have loved parkrun when I was much younger. I’ve always been very competitive with myself that it would have been a great way to become a regular runner. Hope you’re both still enjoying your runs and if you see me again at a parkrun/ race come and say hi again. Hopefully I’ll be able to put a face to your name next time 😁
Thanks for the very honest video Rachel! ❤. I am like this too, I do pretty much all of my running alone, whether it be races, my long runs or parkruns.
The one place I’d like company is when doing a spot of parkrun tourism. But sadly pretty much all of my friends are not into running, so I end up going alone.
Again, thanks for sharing.
Thanks for your comments 😊 I had thought I’d do more of the parkrun tourist thing but I’m in such a routine of going to my local one. The only time I travel to one is if it’s New Year’s Day and now the doubles have gone, I end up at the one that’s the nearest. I did try some new ones out when our parkrun was changing locations a while back, but again, going on my own was quite stressful. I see John and Dawn (Two Running Brooms) travel the length and breadth of the country and think how wonderful it is 🙂
Hope your running is going well!
Your running is brilliant and i really can relate to how you feel.
Training and going races on your own is really hard, i was fortunate enough to meet my run bud but for years i went and done races alone and yes it was hard but i love racing.
I really hope you meet a run buddy and see that smile back on your face, and on a personal note i love watching your videos.
Hi Carl, thanks 😊 That’s good you have a running friend to go with to races. There’s nothing like chatting to another runner about running. I run on Sundays with a friend and I’ve no idea how we can pass 2-3 hours talking about every aspect of our training (he does triathlon so we do go off on a tangent) but we do!
Thank you for sharing your run and the chat at the end thank you and well done
Hi, thank you 😊
@@racheld1844 🙂🙂🙂
Thanks for making this, Rachel.
Enjoy the Ultra! Fingers crossed for good weather 🤞
Thanks 😁 So far, it looks like I won’t be packing, but I’ll be WEARING my rain jacket 😂 There’s still time for these showers to stop showering!
Thanks for sharing this Rachel! Take care, stay positive and healthy🙏
Thanks so much 😊
Running is a lonely sport, it's not like it's a team race or anything. I sometimes find it that runners are quite self centered too. I wouldn't hack the loneliness of road racing at all, Rachel, like you keep doing it. That's why I go with my running club friends (even though they are much faster than me). At least in fell running there's always a friendly community and a pub get together at the end (and not everyone has to drink alcohol). I totally understand what you mean. You must be very strong to keep going through this. Well, at least you have thw joy of the great race times.
Thanks Olga 😊 You’re right that different types of races have a different dynamic. I can see from all your fell race videos that it’s a very sociable scene. I think once you’re within a group, it’s easy to feel part of that bond. Although sometimes I do wish I could be part of a club, I know they’re all very welcoming, but I’m even more useless in big crowds. I need a group I can fit in my pocket and carry them round with me 😁
I understand what you mean. Even though my husband keeps saying that I am an extravert, I don't believe in such labelling because I only talk to people when I genuinely want to find something out or when I have a question, I am not very good at small talk but I do talk sometimes when I need a human connection. When I come with people in the same car, we talk there, normally about interesting things somehow without meaning to, but I also only have one best running buddy and only 2 non running best friends. I use ('use' is a bad word) people for the human company. However, I enjoy the solitary time too. Also during the races or navigation courses I keep meeting the same people, this is how I get to know them and even some crucial things about their life, especially in a pub after the race. I hope you will meet your specific pocket people so you don't feel lonely. You'd be an interesting company, Rachel. I would want to hang around with you.
@@OlgasBritishFells - thanks Olga. I think I’d find plenty of real life friends just through the people who have seen the video. Problem is the geography though. I do have a small pocket of good friends. I’m lucky and really, a bit like you, I like it that way. I’m not really after a big circle of friends. Not all of them race the same races as me which is where I find the ones on my own, the ones that are harder to enjoy.
Hello Rachel, I have just watched your recent video above and I am sorry that you feel the way you do, I can certainly relate to those feelings, as I have similarly felt the same in sports activities and in normal life events. I still hope that my situation will change, so in saying that, I say keep putting yourself out their, don't loose hope or faith....sometimes your life changes when you are not looking 🙋
Hi Nicola, thank you 😊 Luckily the feelings are short lived but they do appear in other situations too. It’s just my character and I know they’re there, so I’m very used to it. I think that’s why, even though I’m not really enjoying it, I can still turn up. But that’s not to say I want it to stay like that forever. Although it’s not been nice reading that others have similar experiences, in a way it is. It makes me (and anyone reading the comments) realise it’s not actually that uncommon to feel like that. I think we might just assume that everyone else is there with other people they know, where in fact there’s probably plenty of people who are there alone and feeling a bit lonely in doing so.
I’m an avid believer that things change and will change. Nothing stays the same and I agree, they happen when you least expect it to 😊
@@racheld1844 I agree whole heartedly. I do a lot of travelling on my own and you miss people to talk to in the evenings, but I have got so used to it now, unfortunately, I'm a little socially clumsy and I never know what to say and even sometimes are glad that I am on my own because I can walk away when it gets uncomfortable, but judging by your videos, you are certainly trying different things and not letting the grass grow, you will have no regrets. If you don't enjoy something, step away and try something else or return to it after a break? Take care
I loved this video, cheers to you!
Thanks Erik 😊
Loving the videos Rachel, discovered your channel the day after Newport Marathon. I ran Newport that day and loved your Newport vlog plus everything else since. Looking forward to the next one !
Hi Lyndon, Newport seems sooo long ago now. Still look back at that race though with the best of memories. I have one definite race next week, which is to complete the summer series races, but after that, I’m very undecided in which way I’m going to take the rest of the year. I’ve a few ideas though 😁. Hope your training or any races are going well!
Well done Rachel. Sounds like the race didn't quite go as planned but you placed really well.
Those evening races are always challenging especially dialing in nutrition and energy levels. I have had very few really good evening races so your experience isn't too unusual.
I too attend races solo for the most part. It can be a lonely sport but I've made so many friends over the years doing it. Sometimes I carpool with people to races and I try to at least make one new acquaintance at every race. My 10k race today was like your experience. I ran pretty well but wasn't super happy despite winning my age group and after the race I sort of had a lonely void. It was nice watching people while doing the post race breakfast but at the same time I felt like I wasn't really a part of it. Some races are like that though. Cherish the good ones and the good times though. Love watching your videos.
Thanks Eddie 😊 Well done on your 10k and winning your age group and finishing it off with a nice breakfast, even if you would have rather it wasn’t on your own. I can’t even remember a time I’ve ate out my own 🤔 I don’t think I have (does a McDonald’s in the car count 😁) I’m terrible at eating after a race, when I run a hard effort my stomach shuts down. If I try and eat too soon I get quite an upset tummy so have to wait ages 🙁
A bit like in the video, not all my race experiences are bad. The best ones are the ones I can share, but it does highlight how much the ones on my own are not so much fun.
That was very moving Rachel, I feel for you - thanks for sharing.
Hi Declan, thank you 😊
A very relatable human story,thanks for sharing..
Hi, thank you 😊
I turn up at races and parkruns on my own too. Always feel awkward but do get chatting to people almost every time. I just accept it and keep turning up as i love it. Was even considering joining lonely goats with you hehe! 😂
Lonely goats can be a double edged sword. It’s like a beacon that tells people you’re lonely. Sometimes I don’t want anyone to know I’m there at all and would rather be not noticed in the crowd. If that even makes sense 🤔 A big problem for me is I’m shy (stupid I know, when I have a UA-cam channel) but I’m terrible at starting up a conversation. I’m ok if someone talks to me but I’m rarely the instigator. I’m still learning 🙂
Great video Rachel. I know it’s much harder to turn up to races on your own so huge respect to you for having the get up and go to do it in the first place and achieve these amazing results. Don’t feel down, we’re all with you ❤
Hi Christina, thank you! The response from this video has been amazing. I did my ultra training run on Sunday and I popped back home several times during the day. Every time I got back I’d see all the wonderful comments that would keep me going for the next section of my run. It was so nice to have all this virtual support 😊
Congratulations on the second place and very respectable time on a hilly course. But far more kudos on the honesty, that's a tough thing to show. I find being in the local running club a big help and its a super important thing in my running AND social life. Don't know if that might interest you Rachel?
Keep strong, and keep being brilliant!
Hi Steve, thank you! I’ve run a lot of flatter routes this year but the last couple of hillier routes have been a reminder of how much harder it is 😁
For now, a running club option isn’t really a possibility for a few reasons but I’ve read so many people’s positive experiences. In fact I don’t think anyone has said that they wished they hadn’t.
Hi Rachel, what a powerful and (refreshingly) honest vlog. I found it really engaging and insightful. I've felt exactly the same....it can be a lonely sport / activity - and races sometimes exacerbate that (when we think it should be the opposite...). Well done on some fantastic recent races!
Hi Stephen, thanks for your comments. It’s very true about feeling more lonely at races. If I head out for a run on my, that’s what I expect. I know I’m going to be on my own so that’s fine, but when you’re in a race day environment, it brings out the isolation more because you’re surrounded by lots of people sharing their day. Knowing what I’ve read in the comments there’s a lot of people who’ve been experiencing exactly the same.
5k - 20:34, now that’s impressive!
Stay positive, you’re doing extremely well, don’t get too down as you could meet someone when you least expect it and it may not be at a running event. 👍
Thanks 😊 I think I had the advantage of a mostly downhill first 5k. The mile splits after that were a bit more ropey 😁
Nice work!
Thank you 😊
So sorry to hear this Rachel. Please look after yourself.
Hi Chris, thanks. It’s a short lived emotion, it soon goes, and then I’m back out training and everything’s ok 😊
Totally get it Rachel!
Thank you 😊
Heartbreaking vlog (It's my first time seeing Rachel D too). Feeling kinda lonesome here too a lot of the time, even though the freedom of being alone looks so good from the outside.
I recently read (in H is for Hawk) that "The best cure for loneliness is solitude" - which I think is true, deep, and I don't really understand!
Anyway, I hope that you find some solace, and it was lovely to hear some Midland accents (from a Brummie trapped in Essex!) X
Hi Clive. Sometimes I can hear the brummie in my voice, but not always. Then I get reminded it’s definitely there!
I think I get what the quote is trying to say, although trying to write it down is proving harder. I watch a wild camping guy called the solo summiteer. He often says his camps give him solitude, not loneliness. It’s taking the pleasurable side of being on his own rather than the negatives. But I get that people will look at these 2 words and choose one of them for their own interpretation of feelings of isolation.
Even making this video has changed things for me. I had never intended it to be the reason for recording that day. But I’m glad I did. Things always change 🙂
@@racheld1844 Glad to hear it, and yes, I kinda get the quote, in a way.
And I pick up on any accent from near home, and love it! Mine only comes out when I shout (or am drunk, or say "tooth"! 😜)
Thanks for the reply. X
@@clivewitcomb2839 - I didn’t realise tuffbrush and tuffpaste weren’t a thing till I moved away from home, people had no idea what I was on about 😁
I am not sure if you are speaking of social interactions with other runners or having family or friends accompany you to races. I always went to races by myself. Family members always questioned my sanity when I asked them to miss one or two hours of sleep; so I only asked once. That is just the nature of the sport to me. "Feeling like an alien"? Yes, indeed. Not in the sense of not belonging but being exceptional among the aliens. Your training, commitment and competitiveness make you exceptional. A time of day you do not like to run, an unfamiliar course and you still did a stellar job. 43 of 135; 2nd lady overall (and the other 3 in the top four were all in the open category) and 1st in your age group. Most impressive was your attacking the hills. If I am missing the point of the feeling like an alien sentiment, please let me know. P.S. A post-race ice cream would have been a well earned treat..
Thanks Donald. Unfortunately the ice-cream shop was closed so I wouldn’t have been able to get one. Equally, I would have had to pass. I think the enjoyment of nice food out comes with sharing it with others. I think I’d had enough time on the bench on my own before the start. Sob story I know 🤦🏻♀️
My alien reference was that I felt foreign, that I didn’t belong. That I shouldn’t have the feelings of awkwardness when I’ve being doing this so many years. It should be a place I thrive and feel good about myself. But I came out alive and I’m ready to take on the next one!
Oh, and I’m very impressed you found all the race positions. I was patiently waiting for an email, expecting to wait a few more days. Then there was your comment with everything in. I’d still be waiting 😂
Absolutely love this video Rachel. Your honesty. Have an idea
Hi Penny, thank you 😊 You have an idea?
Congratulations Rachel on a brilliant run. Very impressive.
I'm an early morning person too so understand how difficult it can be to get yourself up for a race after a long day, but you did great.
Run a few of the midweek VET races myself. They are very ‘running club orientated’ so I do often feel like an outsider whilst doing them. Won’t lie, it does spoil the enjoyment.
For various reasons, we don’t always enjoy every race. Often, I will do a ‘sugar-coated’ Facebook post and focus only on the positives. 🙂
Congratulations once again and very best of luck with your final long run before the upcoming 50 miler.
Hi Colin, thank you! I think I’m so accustomed to morning running it’s become ingrained, and I doubt I’d ever be able to switch it. If I miss a morning session I can easily try and talk myself out of it and it’s a big effort to get out. All completely opposite to how I ran years ago. Mornings I was tired, evenings I ran on a well fuelled day.
I think, like you said about these type of races being club orientated, it was why I hadn’t been back to them in such a long time. I’m glad I’ve run them, only if it’s to prove to myself that I can still put myself in ‘awkward’ situations.
(The last training run for the 50m went well thank you. Video will be out when I’ve edited it and caught up with comments on this one 😁)
well done Rachel 👌😊
Thanks Roy 😊
It's important to acknowledge the low points. I definitely find it hard to run with people although I've got myself into a couple of carsharing whatsapp groups and have got into the habit of popping out offers for lifts to races in local running club groups. Made a few friends that way or have just been able to meet a new person and chat on the way to and from the race.
Never an easy thing to do, I'm very anxious and default to being alone, but it's gradually helping me build a network of people who are likely to be going to the same races as me and I'm slowly getting a bit better at striking up conversation with other runners at the start and finish. Definitely still have races where I'm by myself and feel a bit on the outside. It's a slow process for sure.
Hi Jess, thank you. When I see your videos I do see some of myself when you explain how you feel sometimes. 9 times out of 10 I won’t be the first person who says anything to start a conversation, which I know is completely against what I’m trying to achieve out of all this. Certain races ‘work’ and some don’t. I find club orientated races like the equivalent of being invited to some else’s family’s party. I’m invited but I don’t really know them. I guess everything’s a big navigation, some people can manoeuvre quickly through all this, some of us can take years to figure it all out 🙂
Absolutely, I seem to be gradually accumulating a group of running friends who are roughly as strange as I am 😁 so there's definitely hope
@@AMostlyFunctionalJess - that’s exactly it, it’s finding the right friends 🙂
Thanks for such an honest video.
Thank you 😊
Hey Rachel, as a fellow runner who shows up to these things alone and wonders what it's like to be part of a group or just 2 friends experiencing it together, I'm close to understanding what you feel like. I see the comments about a running club but, much like yourself, I don't want to start running at that time of day nor do I find it easy going and meeting new people. I love how honest your video is and feel grateful to see I'm not the only one who feels the same.
Hi, I think running groups can be such a positive thing for the sport, both in terms of running fitness but also the friendship side. Equally it’s not for everyone and there are lots of reasons for someone not wanting or not able to join. I’m lucky in that I don’t always go to races alone, but in a way, that’s what makes the times I do go alone, so much harder…. I know what I’m missing out on.
@@racheld1844 I'm always on my own so always think I'm missing out BUT it's still healthier than not going at all :)
Well done on talking and filming at that pace! That’s close to my pb pace and I can only manage wheezes and grunts.
Hi, thank you! I do have to ‘prepare’ to talk, I then speak, then I go back to breathing hard again to make up for the lack of oxygen 😁
@@racheld1844 are you tempted to leave the camera behind to see how fast you can go?
@@n0killz44 - sometimes I do wonder but especially on these types of races, a few seconds slower wouldn’t make much difference to my placing. My favourite reason for filming is because I love the catalogue of races for me to look back on. Especially in many years to come when maybe I’m not able to run anymore. Even ones from last year bring back certain memories that otherwise I would have forgot.
@@racheld1844 look after yourself and you can run as long as you want 👍
Hi Rachel. I never liked going and racing by myself, although I did it a good few times. It was always better to go with family or friends even if the run was mainly alone. I am such a morning person that I think my body would never enjoy an evening run. You have done so well in the last couple of years and achieved every running ambition you set out to achieve. That could be part of the problem. Perhaps it is time to step away from racing (after the trail race) for a while and just enjoy the running. I am not a club person but if you need company on a run, the obvious thing to do would be to join a local club. Perhaps just a jogging club for the occasional run and chat with others. I am sure they would be delighted to have you! Did you ever think of doing any more wild camping? I seem to remember only seeing one video of a winter camp. We love your videos.
Hi Peter. I can see I’ve been really busy with training and racing virtually none stop. I told myself this year that I’d do less. By marathon day, I’d only run one warm up race and the previous year I think I’d done 4. Then they started rolling in. Some were intentional, then others were ‘accidental’. I still have a few running goals outstanding, but I don’t expect them to be all done this year, or next. Just whenever they happen. I have 2 definite races left that are already booked, but after that the slate is clear and I’ve no plans either which way yet.
I keep looking at all my wild camping gear and think when I will go out next. I’ve no plans as yet. Biggest hold back is stringing 2 days of free time (other commitments, not running) I’ve been collecting some really nice cicerone guide books of some of the National Trails. I’ve every intention of heading out on some multi day walks and also I’m really keen on some long distance bike packing. Nothing that will happen soon but it’s things for the future that I’m looking forward to 😊
I’d have turned up with you. I pretty much ran past on my daily 8(ish)K. Didn’t even know it was happening on my doorstep.
I went to school at Haybridge as well 🤦♂️ that would have been a culture shock!
Hi Merv. I’ve never run in this area before (although I should have recognised the canal cross over, as I’ve run the Droitwich canal several times) I know there used to be an off-road parkrun, starting at Churchfields but I think it became too muddy in winter and then never returned post covid. The series doesn’t get big advertisement, it usually gets promoted through clubs. It was on runABC midlands, not sure if you know that race event website. Most events I do get posted there 🙂
@@racheld1844 I’ve never entered a race, just run for health until recently. I’ve done 7 parkruns and now getting interested in my times.
Wish I’d done it sooner, I’m looking at age grading now 😂
@@mervwignall5822 - age grade is such a clever way of keeping any aged runner motivated to keep seeing improvements.
Before I met John, Rachel, I often travelled to races with my running clubmates. Have you thought about joining a local club? I found my running life was elevated by this as previously I too travelled to races alone or occasionally could drag a friend along. I also found that belonging to a local club opened up other team running competitions such as relays.
Well done for the race and battling your feelings. Evening races are not my kindest either!
Thanks Dawn. I do see yours and John’s experience of running together so lovely. I think when it comes to joining a club there’d be some advantages for me but also some disadvantages. I do sometimes think I might but then I realise there’s still certain things holding me back and now isn’t really the right time.
Honestly this was the first thing that entered my head...just join a local club! There are actually no disadvantages to joining a running club except you will probably have to pay a some of money to GBAthletics as part of joining!
You might think there are disadvantages but there aren't and you won't realise that until you find out when and where your local club is meeting that's good for you and simply turn up...the rest is 'why didn't i do this sooner'!
Having said that i'm fairly old,fairly slow and only do marathons or ultras and always turn up on my own. However, I always look for people to chat to along the way. Like most runs when i've finished I want to get changed, I want to get warm and I want to go home. Maybe it's the setting or how far the run is but even with the maverick group who like to stay behind and have a beer i'm not into that at all and just want to get home and have a shower...but i do stay for a coffee after a parkrun for an hour so... Anyway....if you run the races as fast as you do then you don't have time to talk so the only time you have to talk is before the race and afterwards...if your second place then you could be waiting a long time for people to come in.
There is this lady i do LDWA challenges with and she keeps sending me posts about enjoying the runs and it's not about time etc but honestly she's all about getting to the next aid station...drives me nuts...i want to play Pooh sticks but she wants to get to the next station...which is what i reminded her when she posted her last bit 😂.
Anyway, I don't have your issues, you turn up to race because you can, i turn up to run the route because i can't and the slower you are the more people there are to talk to. I go home having enjoyed the run but empty handed where as you go home assess how well you did while holding onto a trophy! the joys and woes of being fast and slow 😊. Take care and...find a local club!
@@brentlatham5529 - Hi Brent, thanks for your comment sharing your experiences 😁 I can see that there are lots of positives for joining a club, for anyone, but sometimes what might be seen as an advantage to one, might not be for someone else. There’s also lots of reasons for not joining a club that could be as simple as not being practical. Timings/ days and other commitments. For me I have free time, but that’s not always guaranteed and making a specific time commitment to a club would actually be quite difficult. I did share some of my feelings about what it’s like to be lonely at races but there’s also things I haven’t shared that equally impact my decisions. I’ve run for many years and know all my local clubs and lots of the runners in them and I know I could hop into any of their clubs if I felt that was the right thing for me, but not for the moment.
As for the prizes. This event is a league so no prizes for the individual races. Sometimes I’ve placed well at smaller races but soon as the field size increases, I’m just another runner 😁
(I love the ldwa events too!)
@@racheld1844 hey I hear you but here's the thing the vast majority of clubs don't actually care if you don't turn up or not. Honestly, I actually joined my local club just to do the 5 mile races that happen in the winter time. The only times i've ever made it to the monday and wednesday training sessions is when i've got something big and my current fitness needs vast improvement. Honestly you have no idea how long i've gone without going to a session...months...possibly years but if ever i do turn up for a race or session they always welcome me. I guess there are always so many runners that do turn up they don't have time to miss you.
It took me a long time to decide to go to a club mostly because my expectations were so out..but then it took me two years to finally go to a parkrun but now i go every weekend- to the detriment of the saturday morning club social run i might add!
I'm just saying, you really have nothing to lose. If the club demand you join straight away then they must be very competitive. The vast majority will allow you to join their sessions until you are ready to join.
Changing the subject- What, you didn't a prize for running that well!!!
@@racheld1844 Honestly you would be surprised at how little I go to the club training sessions...months and even years have gone by over time. I kind of joined the club so that I could do the 5 mile cross country races for free in the Winter time but I mean I hardly ever go to their training sessions. When I have something big to work towards and my fitness is rubbish then I will go to the training sessions but otherwise... I have to say though when I do turn up I am always welcomed. I kind of think there are so many runners that do turn up they don't have time to care about those that don't turn up.
I guess you do get some clubs which will be highly competitive that will require you to become a member as soon as you turn up but the vast majority will allow you to go to their sessions and join when you are ready.
It took me ages to finally decide to go myself though...kind of like the parkruns...that took me two years and now I do it every week - to the detriment of the Saturday morning social club run I might add! Honestly, I think you will be surprised but you have nothing to lose just turning up to one club run that is availabe to your schedule.
On another note - What no prise for running that well? That's terrible :) allow me to provide you with a virtual trophy lol - well done LOL
I imagine you have lots of people to reply to so I won't waste any more of your time. Take care.
Fantastic Content Rachel and thanks for sharing your journey. Keep your chin-up and doing what you're doing, you are clearly a talented runner and I have every faith you will tackle your shyness head on, like you do with your races 👊 I know easy for me to say, but I really do think if you could find a local running club (which I know would surely make those first couple of visits tough and uncomfortable), you would not only meet & make life long friends, you'd get lots of support, healthy competition and hopefully some lift shares 🤓 Best of the luck for you Peak District 50M, go smash it!!
Hi Rob, thanks! If I could have the same level of success in being social, as I do with my running I’d be a very social butterfly indeed 😁 I’ve read all the lovely comments about the idea and courage of joining a running club. The more I reply, the more I find it’s probably not the answer I’m looking for. Also, like in some other responses I wrote, it all sounds very contradictory but I’m still hopeful I will figure it out 😊
Aw Rachel, that really got me. I’m so sorry that you feel like this and admire your honesty. I don’t have a clue if you’re in a running club / have any running friends that you could go to races with (I’m pretty new to your channel) but I know you’re an excellent, excellent runner and deserve to enjoy it! I know we can’t enjoy something 100% of the time, but if you’re feeling sad lots of the times at races I reckon it might be time to think how that could change? I want to come and run a race with you all of a sudden. Main problem? You’d be way too fast and you’d be running on your own anyway 😂. I really hope you find a way through. Running is to be enjoyed.
Hi Conrad. I’m not part of a real life running club but I am a member of the Lonely Goats running club. It’s an online club for those that like to train and race on their own. I like the solo training part, but not so much the racing. I probably do 1 in 4 races completely on my own, so not really a bad ratio. However, it would be so nice not to do any alone 🙂
Plus…thanks for the offer of a run, even in theory, that’s kind.
@@racheld1844 👍👍
Great video but it's sad you didn't enjoy it cos running on Yr own... I actually like running on my own with my music on but I also love running as a guide for my friend who is visually impaired and wouldn't be able to run on her own.... We enter races we are most often in the top ten last runners but we just love running and getting to finish line...yr a great runner with brilliant times.. Thanks for Yr honesty #keeponkeepingon....x
Hi Liz, that’s lovely to hear you are a guide runner, I’m sure you make a great team together. You always have a running partner when you run with your friend 😁 I like to listen to music too, but not always. I go through phases of needing a distraction and times when I’m happy with my own thoughts. Quite often a whole song can pass without me even noticing because I’ve already switched off 🤦🏻♀️
@@racheld1844 too be fair I'm a bit like that sometimes when myself and sometimes I just turn the music off and pray for the finish... 😅... We are a weird lot us runners but one thing we all have in common is we are very friendly I find....i can't pass another runner when I'm out a training run without shouting sumthing at them or holding my hand up and saying hi with my strava wave... ✋😂🏃♀️xx
Hi Rachel very interesting video, I was trying to understand what you are looking for, a running companion or a parter to come and watch you. Be confident in your own person, if you come to London and you don’t mind running 5:30-6min give me a shout. Love the videos keep it up
Hi, thank you so much 😊 It’s so lovely to read all the kind words and offers to join in with you all. Training and racing is fine, I’m more than happy doing that on my own. It’s just the travel and the shared experience of an event. Crossing the line and heading home is what I find the lonely part.
It’s not you Rachael, I find little honesty in other people today it’s like a lost art, so what can I say, you are the best and you definitely deserve an ice cream 🍨, thank you for your videos. 😊
Thank you Edward 😊 the problem was the ice cream shop was closed 🙁 I think even if it had been open though, I’d have to of skipped. I’m saving such luxuries for a shared experience 😁
Great racing as always Rachel and your honesty at the end about not enjoying turning up for races alone was eye opening as I always assumed that you preferred running alone since I don't think you have ever joined a running club? If ever your in South London or Surrey I'd be happy to meet up for a parkrun and I can recommend some fast evening 5K races I'm doing in London in August which offer excellent PB potential on a very flat course. Given my current level of fitness though your about 2 mins quicker than me over a 5K and quite a bit more over a 10K. Best wishes for the ultra.
Thanks so much Geoff 😊 It wasn’t so much the racing or the training, it was just the travelling and returning on my own. Having someone there on race day gives me such a confidence boost. Not confidence in racing, just in myself. If I am ever your way I will be sure to let you know 🙂
Oh, Rachel, I'd love to arrive to a race and run with you! Unfortunately, we're in totally different countries plus I'm older and slower, lol. But I get you. I've raced alone a lot. I've noticed that road races geared more for speed seem to be unfriendlier than trail races. In trail and ultra races people just seem more willing to chat with others before and after the race. But still, it's hard sometimes to be the lone person walking back to your car with no one to gush to about the race experience, and I say that as one of the biggest introverts there is. P.S. Good luck on your ultra.
Hi, thank you. Yes, it’s sharing that pre and post race experiences. The nerves before and the relief it’s over after. That’s all part of the race package. I think with trail races, the numbers tend to be smaller and everyone is in less of a rush to get to the end on a time goal. It makes it more relaxed. Thank you for your offer to be my travel companion 😁 Where are you from?
❤
Thank you 😊
I rarely go to races alone anymore because I’m part of a running club, full of wonderful people, we CarShare to races and parkruns
Hi Nick, for now, a running club isn’t something that fits in with how my days are. It’s nice to hear so many positive experiences though. Anyone who has taken the leap into joining a club have shared some really nice comments 🙂
I don't think this is uncommon. I generally go to events on my own and it always feels a bit awkward but I do it because I love it. My wife had no interest and can not understand why people run!! 😂😂 my son is 16 but likes the gym and my two girls 10 & 8 like my stories and love the medals. They like the concept but have not come for a run yet. I don't have a running buddy so like you I push through the awkwardness and enjoy the event. Best of luck
Hi Simon. I’ve heard lots of runners describe how their families leave them to get on with their training and racing. I think medals placed around children’s neck can be a big incentive to get them curious to want to know what it’s all about. My 3 have all tried a bit of running here and there and my eldest did get to 100 parkruns but none of them saw a desire to carry on for more than a short amount of time, but I never know, maybe they’d like to have another go when they’re older 🙂
Hey Rachel, such an honest video. I may be oversimplifying it and accept that but would joining your local community running club open up organised opportunities for you to go to races with other club runners that you'd then know and not have to organise travel and attend races alone. You'd solve your angst and add more friendships into the sport that you love. As you've said, you're a runner and running can bring you what you are missing, I'm certain it will. Take care and keep us posted 🏃♂️🏃♂️👍👍😀😀
Hi Graham. There’s been a few reasons I’ve not joined a club in the past. I could work round some of them but there’s others that would still make it difficult. I have been invited on many occasion to join one local club but haven’t ever taken up the opportunity. Maybe in the future…I never say never 😊
I did wonder if I was over simplifying it in terms of you joining a running club. I can't talk anyway, you're miles ahead of me, I run alot and enjoy it so much and yet I have never had the organisation skills required to sign up for and take part in any formal race, or join a running club. May be you could join the Brett and Andy challenges in future events and go together? You beat them both with your Droitwich covered watch race time prediction after all! Looking forward to you sharing more of your running world in future vlogs. Thanks and regards. Graham 😀🏃♂️👍
Not Droitwich, I meant Leamington Spa! 😀👍🏃♂️
@@grahamsample4679 - I’m waiting for the invite on the challenges or maybe 3’s a crowd 😂
How about running the Worcester half with me. Could be fun!
As much as I would love to take up the offer, I think I’m all halfed out for this year 😂 The word fun and 13.1 sends shivers down my spine!
This is one I’ve not run, but I’ve heard it’s a nice event!
@@racheld1844 Ah.Ok. Well good luck with the ultra.
you turned up. don't forget that.
I did, I always tell myself that. As much as I don’t want to sometimes, by not turning up, I’d feel worse about the whole situation 😊
So why aren’t you a member of a running club?
Its hard to fit running clubs in with life sometimes. I’d love to be part of my local club but most of my week nights are taken up with childcare or other commitments I don’t want to drop. I do lots of my training very early in the morning or late at night to avoid taking too much time away from my family. One day I’ll have the time, but not right now.
I believe that Rachel is a member of Lonely Goat Running Club.
@@Nick-pk4sq honestly you can just join a running club and not go to the training, just do races. so many not in clubs have false ideas about what being in a running club requires, it’s never what you think
I’m just like you i train mostly on my own, but I’m a part of my club and lots of people know me, we car share to races and so on
Hi Phil. Lots of reasons really, some of which Nick has covered, but there are others as well. For now, I don’t see this as the route for me though. Could seem a bit contradictory but I have given it a lot of thought 🙂
I always say honesty is best policy. Sometimes saying it how it is can be difficult, but we get better at it as we get older. Some, as you know on here, have an agenda and as you say the camera sometimes lies. Hopefully see you soon 👍🏼
Thanks Donato 😊 It’s always tricky to say what you really want to say. Once the video is public then the rest is in the hands of the audience. Luckily it seems to have been an eye opener to those watching and also it’s been so nice to hear everyone else’s thoughts on being in similar situations 🙂
Hope things are ok with you? Not being able to use up that running energy must be hard going.
@@racheld1844 everyone has ups and downs, thats life. Some share all, some share what they choose to share. I came here 7 years ago to get away from the Instagram narcissists, but sadly too many are on this platform now. Yes its tough not running, but not the end of the world as i have other interests. I'm getting down the gym which helps burn off some energy and also cutting back on the pizzas! LOL
@@PoetWithPace I think half is being honest but the other half is protection of privacy. There’s often more, even to an honest story, it’s just deciding how much to share. Glad you’re hitting the gym and keeping busy 😊
@@racheld1844 indeed, the truth is out there. Keep positive and all is well Rachel. Almost 100% of my races are alone, hence why i take camera to talk to!
Great sentiment and thoughts in this vid Rachel.
I think we are all ‘there’.
Are you on Strava?
I’m thinking you need some followers 😊
Hi, thank you 😊
No, I’m not on Strava. I like to keep things as simple as possible and this was one of the apps I not longer use. I may possibly set it up in January for marathon training, but still unsure 🙂
@@racheld1844 I ‘get that’. I’ve not long set up Strava myself as relying on the garmin app, but it’s easier to view performances etc at a higher level I think.
Good luck with your training for the ultra, from a fellow worcs ultra runner in training 😊
@@Worcestershire321 - ah a local runner! Good luck with your running too!
😢.
Don’t be sad 😊
Maybe you're adding too many races on your calendar and its taking the fun out of it. Thats what im trying not to do and keeping it as a once a month target.
Hi Peter. I think there’s an element of too many races that’s made the last few seem harder than usual. Some of the races were planned but others were added unintentionally. I have 2 more to go then nothing is booked at all for after that 🙂
Rachel, is this general social anxiety, or simply personal loneliness, or are you a natural extrovert (thus needing external stimulus to feel happy) and are frustrated you don’t have friends who run? My sense is you are an introvert… if I am right, do you really want someone else to go with? You seem to want this, hence the first question.
Hi Alec, I’m 100% introvert, always have been. Making videos was a big reason for helping me with my confidence. You might notice, I never talk much to the camera around others. Adding the voice over allows me to say what I’d like in the comfort of my own home, without feeling self conscious around others. I quite enjoy getting on with my own plans and seeing what I can make of them but I still feel a sense of loneliness. If I’ve had support/ company on a race, it’s a much better experience all round. My challenge is to make all my races like that 🙂
@@racheld1844 Rachel, a few things to say… first of all, I love your videos, thank you for doing them… really good! Secondly, you are a very good runner, never forget that! I am also an introvert, maybe not extreme, but I find that I love going to races alone, doing them on my own, and then leaving without really talking much to anyone. Who do I talk to? My Strava running mates via Strava… I fill out the Strava description fully and explain what went well and what didn’t and how I felt. I love doing this, and I always get lots of comments from my running buddies. If you really want to have company going to races I reckon the best way is to join a local running club, and let it be known you are going to x or y race and does anyone want to go together… there would usually be someone going and they may or may not want to share the travel. Anyway, I wish you well… you are a great runner, your vids are brilliant. And you were close to tears at the end of this video… I hope you feel better now… cheers Alec
@@Alecmcq - thanks Alec. I think the red faced post race complexion made it appear I was almost in tears, but I was ok on that front. It was more a big sense of disappointment and dissatisfaction that was the biggest emotion. I did do Strava a while back but, a bit like Facebook I could see I was being drawn too much into it, so came off both. If it wasn’t for the turning up alone part I’d be fine. Once I’m running I’m all good. I like running my own race 🙂
❤
Running can be a very lonely sport. Until the last few years I always played football, and I actually said to someone this week how I miss the banter and laughs we used to have.
Well done on another great result in the summer series 👏
I like running alone . Everybody runs at a different pace anyway
I like running alone too, but going to a race on my own is the part I don’t like 🙂
Thanks Darren. I think we all crave that interaction. Maybe on different levels and amounts but it’s relevant for all of us 😊
So what happened to your football career…did they tell you you were too fast on the pitch 😂
@racheld1844 I was going to turn professional, but I decided to be a very amateur runner instead 😂😂😂
I had been struggling for a long time with an issue with my hip, and it was just too painful to carry on playing. Now I can run whatever distance I want, and I never get any pain from it 🤞🙏.
I'm planning on running the Chester marathon in October, but I realised the other day that I only have 11 weeks to train for it 😳 In my head, October was still about 6 months away 😆😆😆😆😆