Guest Post: Exiting Level 5... by Pat Walsh

 In this guest post by Pat Walsh, he looks ahead to exiting Level 5 COVID restrictions and the new year ahead...

 ** Exit Level 5** ... by Pat Walsh

 
Before last week’s big announcement and the grand plan to guide us through the rest of the year and into the next year, let me introduce and word or two of realism. 😛🤓
It could be Summer or into Autumn before we could see a return to racing with large crowds that resemble what we were used to prior to 2020.
I am not a Killjoy but just calling it like I see it. The Vaccine when it will arrive will help and change the situation but to get enough doses administered is a huge task. Allowing most runners are fit and healthy, we will be well down the queue and that is if we even want it.
Airlines are moving towards a situation of negative test plus a proof of vaccine before flying and what is to stop large City Marathons going the same way. 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

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So
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There is still a tough few months ahead for all of us. December has traditionally been a down time for many runners and then a New lift, New start in January.
That may not be as easy this time around, with lack of a clear focus and goal to train for, in the early months of next year. 🥈🏅
Maybe best not to take our normal break but do a little more maintenance work. Don't overdose on bad food as we have had our yearly quota already during lockdown. 😂
Make a weekly plan and get a few runs into each week. Don’t worry about quality just time on the road. Run in daylight if you can as it does help the mood. A mile is better than sitting on the couch. 🛋🛋
Pick a few virtual runs for charity during the month and have the double whammy of getting a run and helping a good cause.
Things will ease from next week and allow us to meet more running friends and travel a bit more from base. Take these opportunities and go somewhere nice with people who make you feel good.
Stick to your weekly plan. Recruit a running friend for each run and you are more likely to succeed. 🙌👏
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I do know this is all hard to read, and same old sh*te week-in / week-out from me,  but what choice do we have?  I want to offer hope but if I can offer focus and support then maybe that will have to do.
We are in this together and hopefully we can get out the other side together as well. 😍
We are runners and we need to keep going.
We are runners and we are tougher that most.
We are runners and we can overcome all obstacles.
We are runners, a few miles + cuppa we are happy .(+ a Bun and we go ballistic.)
We are runners and want to stay that way.
Don't overthink it with elaborate plans for 2021, just keep going and be ready for when the opportunities arise. 🏆🏆
🏃🏃‍♀️
Have a nice weekend and stay safe.
Please keep in touch. We all need the company.
#BeKind #StayStrong #pwr