The Trial of Miles

You may ask where the name of this blog comes from. Some may already know. It comes from a book I have read recently called “Once a Runner by John L Parker. It is billed as one of the best books ever written about running. It’s an inspirational read and I advise all to read it, irrespective of your chosen sport.

For all the speed, effort and anguish that may be experienced on race day, it is nothing compared to the amount of effort it takes to get you to the start line in competitive form. As a comparison, the London Marathon course may be 26.2 miles long, but that seems like a final sprint to the line when viewed through the lens of over 500 training miles to get there. This is true of pretty much all sport. It is the amount of effective preparation beforehand that will generally be an indicator of success when it comes to racing (Rowers look away now and bite your fist).

Of course, the Miles aren’t just those under foot, wheel or through the water. The Miles and also in your head and affect all those around you. Indeed, partners and families can undergo the Trial of Miles without seeking involvement. Putting up with endless hours of training, injuries, missed mid racing-season holidays, Saturday afternoon sofa-bound exhaustion, and the endless repetitive training-related chatter that comes with competitive sport.

Steve puts up with a lot.

Of course, this situation is made easier in some respects if both people in a partnership are involved in a sport. Each will be undergoing their own “Trial of Miles” and there is a lot of be said for the mutual support this can bring. However, for those who fly solo with their passion, the extra Trial one must face is the nagging feeling that you’re affecting the lives of all those around you, by doing what you love. That and boring the ass off everyone around when you talk about another 2k Erg test or 6 mile tempo run.

I may be the one holding the medal, but I didn’t run the London Marathon alone. We both did the Miles.