The Ramadhan Diaries (part 4: the finale)

It was an unexciting finish to the training programme in Ramadhan. The aftermath of the epic 12 mile run last Sunday lasted for some time. I did enjoy a casual six mile run with friends the night of my birthday on the 17th, Thursday, but other than that the routine consisted mainly of cycling and treadmill sessions. As Ramadhan concluded, I was in a joyous mood. Not only was I enjoying a wonderful Eid celebration at home (capped off by an incredible Manchester derby...thank you Michael Owen!), but I was revelling in the thought of a daytime run. On Monday, I took on another six mile run, except this time it was in sunlight and on the softer terrain of the local park. Very much a hilly course; each mile consisted of an uphill struggle and downhill fly by, which flaunts the unique Oxford skyline in its view. A testing but enjoyable session that I'll no doubt be repeating soon. Easier on the legs, my recovery seems to have been fairly swift. With three weeks to go, I think it makes sense to focus much of my remaining training on grass. I think I have one killer run (probably 12 miles) left in me before race day. I'm resisting the temptation of cranking it up to 14 miles, as I remain concerned about the pains in my legs.