I’m just in the door after a 3 day excursion to striking Catalonia. What was meant to be an escape from irish weather was only a change of scenery with nearly the same conditions. We basically brought the weather with us.

Overall it was not too bad and we got a solid amount of miles in. Cycling around our base between El Perelló and L’Ametlla de Mar was brilliant. The roads are quite and in great condition. Used to irish roads it felt so easy and smooth.

Nearly nobody seems to be driving or cycling in that area so it was even more enjoyable to go out and enjoy the scenic climbs. All the little towns with their typical cafes and bars made the rides even more enjoyable. Probably the first training where I come back heavier as I went.

It is not easy to assess the situation. Excuses are easy to make and do not help anyone.

Yes – It was hot. Yes – I did not feel great. Yes – I drank to much and Yes – my head was not up for a marathon in they way i wanted it to be. At the end i have to be honest to myself. At the moment i am not up for a marathon. I am not up to take the pain that i need to for 42k – that’s it.

I wanted to get a good time in a race i really love, on a course that is fast and fair. I made it to the startline well prepared. The training could have been a bit better but overall i thought i am fit enough to break the 2:45. Just from the start i was running in a good group. Some dutch elite women had a really good pacer and i enjoyed the freedom of that well paced group. Just after the half marathon mark when i had a little low my head gave in and stopped my legs. I never question the situation and gave up.

The lady at the aid station gave me one of the Pacer Water bottles and i jogged back to the Erasmus bridge where my dad was waiting anxiously. I was empty and disappointed. The pressure i put on myself was too high and i forgot to enjoy what i love to do – Running.