Run Across America - 1st August - Day 49

It was hard this morning to crawl out of bed as we have now entered “Central Time Zone” meaning that I had one hour less in bed. Only two more 40 mile running sessions before I’m at the half way mark of the Run Across America, so I knew that it was going to be a very arduous day as at the end of running day there was still one day left.

The morning started the same time as usual (06.30am wake up) with Alex making porridge and a cup of tea with two sugars for me. I then wipe surgical spirit on my feet (Trevor said it hardens your feet up) and then use one plaster on each foot, just as a precaution for blisters. I haven’t had a blister for the last 10 days, so I think they have differently hardened up (I miss your advice Trevor). Once I have had breakfast the rest of the team are then woken up (Natasha is not a morning person). Ben normally just slips on his shorts, Natasha stays in her Pyjamas and Alex is already dressed, so we then drive off in the RV to the start point for the day. Once at the start point I will get my water for the two hour session and head off for 10-12 miles. The most important thing for any endurance runner is your mindset, because it’s tough running on my own most of the time with no one to speak to apart from you or the birds. I’ve now got the added bonus of having either Alex or Natasha riding the bike next to me. I have found it so rewarding. They don’t understand how much I appreciate their company and the boredom it takes me from.

The running session started near Bird City, which again was a very small town with lot’s farmers around (it felt like being in Norfolk). The session took just over two hours and the last half an hour I started to feel more comfortable, ready for the day ahead. Once arriving back at the RV Natasha then got on the bike and rode next to me for 15 miles before lunch. The afternoon session started just outside of Atwood and it was Alex’s turn to ride the bike for the same mileage. The weather turned from being a very hot day to thunderstorms and we both got caught in the middle. It was fun and I love running in the rain. Alex then ran the last 4 miles with me at 8mph with Alex keeping with me all the way to the 40 mile mark.

Only tomorrow’s session left before crossing over the half way mark. It means so much to me that I’ve already came this far and I hope that people at home are proud of my achievement so far (my mama doesn’t count).

Artist of the day – Coldplay

Regards, Jackson and Team