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The Christian Dahmen Cause

  • Week 26 (and the .2!)

      18 March 2012

    The Final Push - A busy week this week, but the running was a breeze. The weather helped - a glorious week. And a perfect end to the Marathon of Marathons. Thanks to everyone for coming along last night to celebrate the end of the road. A great opportunity to remember our friend one more time, and celebrate the achievement of getting him home for Christmas. Today I ticked the box on the 26.2 by running alongside another 70,000 fun runners in the Round the Bays. A great event, and the perfect finish. Thanks for the support over the last 6 months, and most of all thanks for your donations. I think I might get the bike out tomorrow.......... :-) Week 26: W/C 10th March 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Warm and damp And a good run ? not so many on the street this morning 5.69m. 2) Early start Monday morning Weather good, feeling good. A big week ahead. 6.2m. 3) Grey! But it got lighter! A Quick blast. 3.2m. 4) Blowy evening A warm wind, bit of rain in the air, but a refreshing run out 3m. 5) Beautiful night But Ifm indoors ? time is of the essence after a big day at Villa Maria 6.2m. 6) Early start And a short run before picking up Dazzler at the airport! 2.66m. Total 26.95m. Week 26.2: 18th March 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Glorious morning And I registered as runner no. 66,499 in the Round the Bays fun run in Auckland. So I shared my last run with about 70,000 close friends and relatives! And a beautiful day too, just like the first. All done now. Tomorrow Ifm running nowhere!. 5.29m. Grand Total 718.45m.

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  • Week 24 & 25

      10 March 2012

    In all the excitement - I forgot to post last week! So here are 2 weeks worth of updates, and the start to the run in. All in all a great couple of weeks - kicking of with a tough half marathon around Oraki, St Heliers and Kohimarama. But at 1.44 - I'm happy. So into the last stretch - and apart from some sore ankles - i'm still in one piece. Week 24: W/C 26th Feb 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Hot! A half marathon to start the week! Much too hot for it too! 13.1m. 2) Early and dark! A couple of days off before running out the creases from the weekend. 6.2m. 3) Windy night And a hard 3m! 3m. 4) The end of a long week! And a finish on a high ? now fully recovered 5.4m. Total 27.7m. Week 25: W/C 2nd March 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Fresh & sunny And an early sprint 4.5m. 2) Same again And a bit further ? nice and refreshing run ? loads of people out there on Tamaki Drive 5.4m. 3) Pitch black at 6am And just enough time before work for an indoor effort! 6.2m. 4) Damp morning But not that damp 2.75m. 5) Close night And a long day on my feet! 6.2m. 6) Nice evening And wish I hadnft had that beer after work. Hard work! 2.75m. Total 27.8m.

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  • Week 23

      26 February 2012

    A good week, bit of a squeeze at the end - but a good week nontheless. A prep week as well with a half marathon on the 26th. Plenty of early mornings and late nights this week due to big client delivery. Doesn't look any better next week either! Week 23: W/C 18th Feb 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Bright and early A big run considering yesterdayfs effort. 6.2m. 2) Early Monday morning - fresh Great start to the week ? and another big one ahead. 2.73m. 3) Damp morning So an indoor blast on the machine for a change. 6.3m. 4) Hot evening Can only just make it tonight. Phew ? long day! 3m. 5) Fresh morning Tough getting up this morning. Yawnc. 2.73m. 6) Beautiful day! A good stretcher for tomorrowfs half marathon. 6.2m. otal 27.16m

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  • Week 22

      19 February 2012

    A funny old week, and a bit of a squeeze. Spent most of the week in Hanmer on the Sth Island running a conference. and you know what conferences are like! Lots of schmoozing - or should I say eating, drinking and late nights! Still managed to just get the miles in before midday Saturday - so happy with that. Thoughts beginning to turn to what next. Lost a few kilo's through the running - so maybe I should try something else. Don't think the knees and feet could take another 6 months! Week 22: W/C 11th Feb 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Bright Sunday morning Lovely day ? contemplating a big week. Better get my jokes ready. 5.3m. 2) Itfs dark! So it must be early! An early Monday morning ? need to squeeze what I can in this week ? 3 days of conferencing will mean very little running! 2.73m. 3) Mild Southland evening Beautiful run around Hanmer in Canterbury. Sun please come out! 4.34m. 4) Hot evening Oh dear ? now itfs a struggle ? 15 miles to go in 2 days. Nightmare ? head down for an hour. 6.2m. 5) Glorious Morning Just a stunning day. Followed next weeks ? marathon course ? the hills bit anyway. Thought Ifd get some practice in! 9.23m. Total 27.8m

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  • Week21 Marathon of Marathons

      12 February 2012

    A solid week's running this week. Some good weather, and some fresh early starts combined with late evening jogs! Not far to go now really - best start to think about what next when the running is over? Week 21: W/C 4th Feb 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance 1) Gorgeous. Just gorgeous Sat AM A big run this morning ? need to get a few long ones in ? doing a ? marathon at the end of the month. Forgot to tape up the nipples again. Big mistake! 8.33m. 2) A Dark night! But a great run ? bit close for comfort though. 5.68m. 3) Breezy evening A hard run out ? really hot and sticky again. 3.5m. 4) Early morning, warm Not much to write home about really. Familiar run, familiar faces! 6.2. 5) Friday night And a hot Friday night at that! This was hard! Sore foot, and tweaked my back. Aaarrgghh! 4.71m. Total 28.42m

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  • Week 20 Marathon of Marathons

      7 February 2012

    Week 20 was a cracker. Weather great for every single step - just glorious here in Auckland. Putting in some longer runs now as I get ready fro the 1/2 marathon at the end of the month. Went to see the Doc today who suggested I had wimped out by calculating in miles instead of kilometers. He thinks I should do 42k a week for 42 weeks! I think not! Week 20: W/C 28th January 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Big blue sky Wonderful morning run ? up Cliff Road, and down to Kohi. 5.7m. 2) Grey morning A quick blast before work ? enough to get a sweat up, and short enough to give me time to cool down! 3.47m. 3) Red hot evening Phew ? must be 26+ this evening. Must be good for the weight loss! 6.5m. 4) Blowy sunny night Great run ? fresh as a daisy. Lots of work to think about on the way. How will we ever fit it all in? 5.71m. 5) Beerless Friday! Note to self ? run in the morning on a Friday. I keep missing afternoon drinks! 6.2m. Total 27.58m

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  • Week 19 - Marathon of Marathons

      30 January 2012

    Week 19 seems like sooooo long ago! Apologies for not uploading before now - a week in Whale Bay got in the way of me and my technology! Here's the detail though - closing in on the final push. Week 19: W/C 14th January 2012: Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance 1) Sun at last So an early run to start the week. Just entered the Cathay Pacific half marathon too ? so going to go for a fast one! 8.04m. 2) Fresh evening Out for another quick one ? great run out over the hill at St Heliers. 5.7m. 3) Great Morning Having to double up today ? early morning run and the first game of the season! 7.8m. 4) Hot night! 1 day before a week in Whale bay. What would you be thinking about! 6.2m. Total 27.74m

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  • Week 18 - Marathon of Marathons

      16 January 2012

    So - the waether has finally turned, and all of a sudden I can't wait to get out there. Beutiful fresh mornings and cool evenings - and loads of people out there enjoying the fresh air. Must have got carried away this week as I entered the Cathay Pacific half marathon at the end of Feb. It's a hard run if I remember rightly - so the last 4 months should stand me in good stead. So who fancies it? Week 18: W/C 7th January 2012 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Rain, rain, rain! Never got out of the garage ? torrential rain all day. Humid, hot and the kids are crawling up the wall! 6.2m. 2) Lovely evening Bored with the normal route ? so gone off to run past Graham Henryfs! 5.88m. 3) Beautiful & fresh Quick dart ? round the block, and back before tea! 2.86m. 4) Humid New route ? thought Ifd got lost for a minute! Great run ? and a hard one ? up hill n down dale! 6.39m. 5) Rain So Ifm indoors! A quick 10k before dinner out with my girls. 6.2m. Total 27.53m.

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  • Week 17 - Marathon of Marathons

      8 January 2012

    A funny old week on the road this week, and in the gym. Pretty much rain, rain, rain! We had one glorious day though, and fittingly it was the day of Christian's Requiem Mass. Any thanks to Fr Raphael, Fr Ofa, Mike and everyone at St Marks for hosting such a wonderful celebration of Christian's life. It really was a fantastic service, and held in such a special place for Christian. I was so impressed - I went back to 10am Mass this morning! Back to work tomorrow, and looking forward to tuning in again after a really reflective Christmas. Run details below, Cheers Jes. Week 17: W/C 31st December 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Dry ? I was indoors! Visited Louisefs new Gym Next Generation ? fantastic. Could have stayed all day ? but she dragged me away! Just not fiar! 6.2m. 2) Overcast First real run for a couple of days. Short and sweet. 4.72. 3) Fresh evening Great new run ? round the Spit in Glendowie. Ran with Damien who kept me right. 6.81m. 4) Rain again Hot and humid tonight. Hard going ? and lots to ponder. Christianfs Requiem mass tomorrow which will be tough. 6.2m. 5) Beautiful morning Couldnft be a better day to send Christian off. A glorious morning in St Heliers. Just a couple of miles left to do. 2.87m. Total 26.8m.

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  • Week 16 - Marathon of Marathons

      4 January 2012

    You will see from the news updates that Christian lost his battle last week. Very sad news, thanks for posting the funeral details Tim. I have 10 weeks left of the running challenge, so i'll keep posting the updates for all of those who have been watching. Thanks again for all the support and donations. Cheers Jes. Week 16: W/C 24th December 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Overcast Christmas Eve ? and not many out on the road today. Better put a along one in because I wonft be running tomorrow! 6.71m. 2) A bit of sun. Just! Boxing day ? and time to run off the turkey. 4.71m. 3) Wet and windy Lots of new running gear out on Tamaki Drive! Whatfs happened to the weather! 4.71m. 4) Torrential rain! Indoors again ? 6.2m. 5) Very dark and very windy Heard the news this morning that Christian had passed away. Despite everything ? itfs a shock. Canft think of much else really. Went for a long run. 8.73m. Total 31.06m.

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  • Update for 03/01/2012

      3 January 2012

    Sadly, Christian left us in the early hours of Thursday morning (29/12), after a courageous fight against Lou Gehrig Disease. He is survived by his son Aaron and wife Dagma. Christian's funeral will be held 11am, Friday 6 January at St Marks Parish, Pakaranga - this was Christian's Parish, where he was also Parish Chairperson up until his diagnosis in 2010. In lieu of flowers, a donation box will be available at the church for donations towards the Parish building fund - one of Christian's passions. It was Christian's dying wish to return to NZ. Thank you all so much for your support in helping us fulfill this wish - a wonderful gift to a wonderful man. From us all here at the On-Brand Partners - thank you.

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  • A very sad day

      1 January 2012

    I'm so sorry to have to tell you that our dear friend Christian lost his battle this week, and passed away in the early hours of 29th December. Just 3 weeks after making it home Christian's condition seriously worsened quite quickly over the last week. Despite this however, Christian still managed to achieve his dream of spending Christmas with his family. Christian spent Christmas Day with Dagmar and Aaron at home which must have been a very special day. Thoughts and prayers go out to Dagmar, Aaron, and all of Christian's family. Deatils of Christian's Requiem will be shared this week. Thanks to everyone for your support in helping bring Christian home, your help really has made a huge difference to Christian and his family.

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  • Week 14 & 15 - Marathon of Marathons

      23 December 2011

    Alot has happened in the last 2 weeks. Crazy days at OBP, moved house, and it's the run up to Christmas! But managed to fit in the running - even if I struggled to get the update posted last week. So 2 running logs can be found below. Most of the team went to see Christian this week, now that he's settled into his new home in Epsom. Although physically a shadow of his former self - he's still sharp and in good humour. Week 14: W/C 10th December 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Heavy drizzle Bruised biceps from lifting boxes, and sore everything! Funnily enough the runs eases everything up. New route as well ? from new house. 4.71 m. 2) Heavier drizzle Itfs been raining now for what seems like a week! The shoes havenft even dried yet! 4.71m. 3) Guess! Still raining. A warm up, 5 a side, and a long warm down! 3m. 4) Still raining! This weather is beginning to get me down! 3m warm up on the machine ? then out into the wet. Urrgh! 7.72m. 5) At last ? itfs dry A quick dart on the machine to take the edge off the weekend. 6.2m. Total 26.34 m. Week 15: W/C 17th December 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Beautiful fresh morning Thank the lord the weather has broken. New route today ? try something new. Forgot to cover up the nipples though ? ouch! 7.72 m. 2) Raining again So a Sunday afternoon in the garage on the machine. Itfs just not the same. 6.2m. 3) Sun just breaking through ? Cold but bright Monday morning. Another new route ? a very up and down one. 3.63m. No running for a couple of days ? blame the Christmas party! Saw Christian today though. Hard to recognise my friend after not seeing him for a while. . 4) Damp and close night Just enough time for a quick dart before Christmas beers with the Wilsons 4.1m. 5) Fresh night Heard the news that Christchurch had had another day of shakes. Up to 6fs too. Must be hard to keep taking such a pounding ? but again they come out in force to start the clean up. Amazing resilience. 4.71m. Total 26.36m.

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  • Week 13 - Marathon of Marathons

      15 December 2011

    It's all down hill from here! This week I made it half way - and completed week 13 of the 26 week challenge. It was timed just right as you will have read from Tim's update, Christian made it home safely this week too. A huge achievement. So we are both half way there. I have another 13 weeks on the road, and Christian's challenge now focuses on adapting to life back in New Zealand. So we've both got a way to go. Cheers Jes. Week 13: W/C 3rd December 2011 - Run # Conditions & Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Hot & Sunny 8am Sat morning ? without a doubt the best time of the day. Lots out pounding Tamaki drive 8.26 m. 2) Warm breezy Monday morning, lots of people about, moving house this week so got to get the miles in early 5.91m. 3) Nice & fresh Tuesday morning, d?j? vous! 4.57. 4) Great day Packing starts today ? so finish the week off in style. Ifm just avoiding the boxes though really! 7.98. Total 26.72 m.

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  • Update for 08/12/2011

      8 December 2011

    Dear friends, Thank you all for your continued support of Christian over recent months ? your generosity has been overwhelming and we are incredibly grateful for your on-going support. To date, we have raised in excess of $30k ? which is a wonderful achievement, so thank you. On Monday, our medical team, Robin Youngson and his wife Meredith (both close friends of Christianfs) left for Germany to escort Christian back to NZ. Both have generously donated their time and services to do so and their involvement in the process is of great relief and comfort to Christian (Robin has experience in international repatriations, having worked for the eAuckland Air Ambulance Servicesf and flown a number of international missions). All going to plan, Christian will arrive in Auckland this Friday 9th (tomorrow). On his arrival, he will be admitted into temporary care and given a full needs assessment by NZ health authorities (including providing guidance on a more permanent residence). Once we have been advised of these details, we will provide a further update to you all. The cost of the mission is on target, with the airfares accounting for circa $25k. The funds so far raised will more than cover this. Excess funds (and future donations) will be used to support and supplement Christianfs care back in NZ. The appeal will remain open and future donations will be gladly received on this site. Here we will provide further updates over the coming weeks on Christianfs condition and his readjustment back into NZ. You will also find weekly updates (below) from our eMarathon manf, Jes Smith, who continues to pound the pavement in his support of Christian. Jes is now into his 12th week of his eMarathons of Marathonsf (and almost half way through his quest to run a marathon each week for 26 weeks!). Thank you once again for your continued support. We will be in touch again shortly. Our heart felt thanks for your incredible support. From all of us here at ON-Brand Partners.

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  • Update for 08/12/2011

      8 December 2011

    Hi everyone, this a message from the travel party. We have arrived safely in Dubai. Christian is tired but otherwise in good spirits. We caused chaos at Frankfurt airport when my medical gear set off all the bomb alarms in the security scanner! The whole area was closed down and cordoned off while they investigated my suspicious package - nearly made the flight late. Smooth trip to Dubai. Christian has been watching movies and managing to eat soft food. Now trying to find a bed for him for a few hours before the 14 hour leg to Aussie. Love to all who have helped. See you soon. Robin

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  • Week 12 - Marathon of Marathons

      4 December 2011

    Closing in on the half way mark - and feeling strong. Started the week in Rotorua - and finished off on familar tarmac on Tamaki Drive. As the weather heats up for summer - early morning runs just have to be the way to go. Everything looks good at 6am! Single parenting all week meant more, but shorter runs this week. Could hardly keep up with the washing! Week 12: W/C 26th November 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance 1) Glorious 8am Sat morning ? Rotovegas! Absolutely fantastic ? great weather, fresh as a daisy. Unlike myself ? 4 hr drive to get here last night, and feeling it this morning! Why is there only me awake? 4.58m. 2) Even more glorious! Same time ? Sunday. An even better day! An easier run too ? feeling better! 4.58m. 3) Colder! But still great. An early morning run ? 6am on a Monday. Kids still wrapped up, Lou away ? no-one to keep me in bed this morning ? 4.57m. 4) Overcast, warm Sticky night ? and only time for a quick outing 2m. 5) Breezy evening Really refreshing run ? nothing hurts for once! 4.57m. 6) Hot night! A long week ends as it started ? on the road. Phew. 6.2m. Total 26.5 m

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  • Week 11 - Marathon of Marathons

      29 November 2011

    A very big week for the cause. At last we have managed to book Christian's flight home which is just fantatsic news. Christian and his medical support - Robyn and Meredith - will be arriving on the 9th December into Auckland. Our sincere thanks go out to everyone who has made this possible - a truly superb effort. The running keeps going though, and our fundraising will continue so that we can support Christian as much as we can when he arrives. There is still a huge mountain to climb, but just having Christian back on new Zealand soil will be heartening for us all. Running diary below... Week 11: W/C 19th November 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Sunny, fresh Sat Morning Same as last week ? just a bit further. Turned the ankle bringing the bin up the drive though! Ouch ? but only really noticed after an hour. Be sore tomorrow! 10.96m. 2) Lovely, warm ? 6am Great morning ? ankle supports off, and running free. 4.57m. 3) Warm morning Early start ? off to Welly on the 9 O clock. Couldnft raise myself quick enough ? so only time for a couple of miles! 2.28m. 4) Hot night Far too hot for footy. A great win for Piggy United though 6-3 ? Easy! 3m. 5) Warm & breezy Got to finish the week early ? off to Rotorua for the weekend tomorrow! Yeeha! Treadmill the only way to go tonight. 8m. Total 28.81 m.

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  • Week 10 - Marathon of Marathons

      19 November 2011

    Great week on the roads - not a drop of rain! Got the bulk of the miles out of the way early in the week - and crusied home with room to spare. !0 weeks in and over 260 miles in the tank. Not much news on Christian's return to add, but plans still shaping up nicely. Week 10: W/C 12th November 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Sunny, fresh Sat Morning So how far can I go? Made the mistake of turning left instead of right at the end of Kepa Road ? 10 miles later I finally crawl home! 10.36m. 2) Gorgeous 6am Start of a chokka week ? no better way to do it. Fresh as a daisy. 4.57m. 3) Warm evening Incredible ? Graham Henry stopped to let me cross at the Zebra at the bottom of St Heliers Bay Rd ? he drives an all white Lexus! 5.53m. 4) Beautiful night Got taught an almighty lesson in football from Sacred Heart Schoolboys tonight. We led 3-2 with 10 mins to go ? then they let rip and scored at will. I think they were playing with us! 3m. 5) Blowy & late Feet are killing! Better get this over with! 3.75m. Total 27.21 m

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  • Week 9 - Marathon of Marathons

      15 November 2011

    Week 9 came and went in a flash. The running has helped to be honest - only chance I got to clear the head, and remind myself of what really matters in this life. News from Christian hasn't been good, he continues to deteriorate physically - but mentally he's as sharp as ever. A fantastic fundraising effort this week - so thanks go out to everyone. The race is really on now to get Christian home for Christmas, and plans are really taking shape. A massive thanks to Tim Jones at OBp for the work he's doing co-ordinating arrangements. Running log below... Week 9: W/C 5th November 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Fantastic ? big blue OK ? Big run today. Thinking I should have worn more sunscreen. Curry tonight with the Claytons ? 8.83m. 2) Fresh! Woke up at 5! And thought about whether to run for 4 hrs! Sup strength Kingfisher really isnft good for the head! 3.73m. 3) Cool & clear Great night for a few miles. Big week at work ? so plenty to think about. Tonight ? I was mainly thinking about aeroplanes! 5.79. 4) Blowy & overcast Uneventful! Lost 6-5 at 5 a side after leading 5-2 at half time. Unbelievable! 4m. 5) Fantastic morning Canft believe how beautiful it is. Glorious along Tamaki drive this morning. Just glorious. 5.72m. Total 28.07m.

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  • Week 8 - Marathon of Marathons

      6 November 2011

    Great week - all good with feet and fitness! Weaher up and down - but hey it's Auckland! Almost beginning to enjoy myself. If anyone wants to join the run - you only have to do 18 miles for 18 weeks now. Come on - there must be someone out there! Week 8: W/C 29th October 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Fantastic day - Got offered a ticket for tomorrowfs Auckland Marathon. Just havenft got the miles in my legs yet. Maybe next yearc 8.78m. 2) Crisp morning - I suld do this more often. 6am ? and itfs just fantastic. What a beautiful place to livec. 4.03m. 3) Blowy, overcast - Another morning run ? but a bit harder to get out of bed this morning. Can hear it howling outside. Mills in a dance show tonight though ? so got to get out there! 3.75m. 4) Windy, overcast - 5 a-side and a jog. The 2 donft really go together for me anymore. Painful! 4.22m. 5) V. Blowy, and hard rain - Started out nice and fresh ? ended in a gale, and driving rain. Thought about nothing but finishing! 5.53m. Total 26.31m.

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  • Week 7 - Marathon of Marathons

      30 October 2011

    Week 7 came and went in a flash. It was the run up to the Auckland Marathon which was today - wish I could have run it - but I haven't got the miles in the legs yet. But as the weather gets warmer - the runs are going to have to get earlier! As for an update on Christian - he continues to battle hard against the Motor Neuron Disease that has ravaged his body but left his clever mind very much intact. Sadly we donft have any positive news to share about his condition and our support efforts are now focused on getting Christian back to New Zealand in the next few months. Christian is currently in residential hospital care in Huenfeld, Germany and is receiving many visits from family, friends and old work colleagues. Dagmar and his son Aaron spent three weeks in Germany recently much to Christian delight. Christians support team here in NZ are now identifying what assistance he will need in his travel back to NZ and what residential care options are available to him upon his return. We will keep you posted. This weeks runs below: Week 7 : W/C 23rd October 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance 1) Warm, close & tense! - All Blacks fighting the cup tonight. Hence the tension in the air! First off round the park with Maxc 2.03m. 2) As above cand then on the treadmill. - Seem to have picked up a sore throat. Must have been shouting for Wales. 6.2m. 3) Cold and damp - Iphone battery doesnft last long enough to plot my run! Having to do it manually. Arrggh 7.5m. 4) Great night - Short but sweet ? harder than it should have been. 3.2m. 5) Grey sky, blue sea - Can hardly find the time to run, so chuffin busy. Giving myself a headache thinking too hard! 6.05m. 6) Dry It would be ? I was in the garage on the treadmill. - Wanted to have today off ? but Mills did the maths and I came up short. Quick blast on the treadmill before a good Friday night curry! 3.12m. Total 28.1m.

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  • Week 6 - Marathon of Marathons

      23 October 2011

    6 down - 20 to go! Seems like 2 very long weeks. Arrived back from Blighty on the 19th with the full 26.2m to do in just 5 days. Jet lag does very strange things to your body. I now have total respect for the Crusaders - how they managed to even tutn up in the S15 final I don't know. Feel like i've crawled every inch of this weeks milage. Also thnk I should be doing a sponsored slim as well as a sponsored run! unless the scales are broken - i'm under 80kg's for the first time in 20 yrs! The jeans are falling off! Running diary as follows... Week 6: W/C 16th October 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Nice & fresh - So what time is it? 1st day back in NZ ? up early, so why not run eh! Surprisingly feeling ok. 5.6m. 2) Beautiful morning - Day 2 back in NZ and up early again. Great morning, sun breaking through. Not sure the body is ready for this thoughc. 7.01m. 3) Stormy night - Time and weather drive me indoors and on the treadmill. Absolutely knackered by the way. Jetlag really kicking in. 6.2m. 4) Lovely morning - Lots to think about. Wales finish 4th and there to see it. Big effort from the boys ? family really found their Welshness! 5.6. 5) Nice night - This done the same day as above. Had to head out with Lou and the dog when I realised Ifd miscalculated! Bugger.1.93m. Total 26.34 m.

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  • Week 5 - Marathon of Marathons

      17 October 2011

    What a great week. Though I wasn't going to make it - lost days to travelling, and the weather was against me early on - but managed to just get over the line before I head back to Auckland. Had to put in a couple of long ones this week - just not had time to do sensible runs! Very big week in the UK. Big Al makes 40, Wales harshly dumped out of the RWC, and Sheffield Wednesday come back from 2-0 down (with 8 minutes to go) to draw 2-2 in the Steel City derby. It doesn't get much bigger than that! - Here's the detail...... bet you thought i'd struggle this week! Week 5: W/C 8th October 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance. 1) Warm, 50 mph wind! - Itfs not like running at home. Wherefs the sea? Why are these school kids staring at me? Momentus day ? clocked up 100 miles! 5.27m. 2) Itfs dark and wet! Urgh - Foolishly relied on Dazzlerfs judgement. gAbout 4 milesh he said. 8 and a half later I finally crawl home! 8.57m. 3) Sun actually came out! - Really struggled to get anywhere the last few days. Jetlag is a dangerous thing. As is 6 pints of Guinness and a curry! 4.01m. 4) Beautiful day - And last in the UK for a while. 4 laps of Clowne to Barlborough and back. Cant get Walesf defeat out of my head. Never a sending off. Poor old Sam. 9.01m. Total 26.86 m

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  • Update for 11/10/2011

      11 October 2011

    Big week on the road. 26.4 miles run - 10,450 miles travelled! Major curveball this week was flying to the UK! had only closked up 22 miles by te time I left on Thursday night which meant landing at Heathrow at 3.30 on Friday and having to piut my trainers on at 6.00 Oclock to run off the last 4.2m before the end of the day. very weird - could have been someone else's legs! Just made it - with he most boring run in the world - round and round the garden! Many thanks to James for not being offened with me arriving on the doorstep - and going sraight out for a run. What must they have thought! Also clocked up 100 miles! Yeehaa! Week 4: W/C 1st October 2011 - Run # Conditions Thoughts on route Distance 1) Gale force wind & rain Slow start to the week. England v Scotland last night and way too many beers! Very heavy feet! 4.6m. 2) Horrific! Gutted ? first day Ifve had to resort to the treadmill because the weather is soooo bad. Thinking happy thoughts ? Lou gets home tonight! 6.2m. 3) Beautiful night 15c, clear - Thinking how great these new shoes feel! Absolutely fantastic ? Thanks Craig and Rebel Sports ? much appreciated. 5.2m. 4) Warm and damp - Night 2 on the Treadmill ? more through time restriction than anything else ? I could be in trouble this week. Leave for UK tomorrow night and still have 4+ to do. 6.2m. 5) Warm & breezy - Oh my God ? jetlag is the strangest thing! Could well have been having an out of body experience. Whofs legs are these? 4.2m. Total 26.4

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  • Week 3 Marathon of Marathons

      2 October 2011

    A long old week on the road this week. All sorts of curve balls to manage - sore feet, sinus problems, and Auckland wind! The drugs helped though, and finally clocked up he 26.2 at about 8pm on Friday night. Phew! Great to see the donations still coming in strong - thank you everyone for supporting Christian. Run details below, Cheers, Jes Week 2: W/C 24th September 2011 - Run # / Conditions / Thoughts on route / Distance - 1) Beautiful day - perfect Made the big mistake of forgetting I was about to cross the Nipple threshold. Anything over 8 miles requires Vaseline. Big mistake ? sore as a very sore thing. 8.86m. 2) Pleasant evening Clocks have gone fwd so it feels like a daytime run. Luvly night! Thinking about Ida ? great friend, very poorly. Speedy recovery Ida. 4.61m. 3) Same again But canft say the same for me. Nothing pleasant about my head. Seem to have got sinusitis from nowhere. If youfve never had it ? just hammer a nail into your head. Same effect. Every step hammers it a in a bit further! Aarrrgghh. 4.53m. 4) Windy but warm Still Aaarrggghhh. Anti-biotics not kicking in yet. A very slow run! But a run none the less. Feeling under pressure now ? got 4+ to do tomorrow ? and not feeling like I should be out there. But ? the advice is ? If itfs in the head ? go ahead. If itfs on the chest ? have a rest. And its in the head! 3.71m. 5) Damp, cold and windy Big lesson learned. Donft leave yourself much to do on the last day of the week. Hardest run so far. Got back home to find out Ifd not gone far enough! Another trip round the parkc.. 5.27m. Total 26.98m.

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  • Update for 23/09/2011

      23 September 2011

    And I thought week 1 was bad....! Actually week 2 has been great. A few niggles along the way - mainly down to running in the dark and dodgy Auckland pavements, but all thing being equal - I've had a good week. A couple of things have helped in particular though. Firstly seeing the $$ mount up on the Givealittle site $12,247.50 as I write! Some fantastic contributions coming in and some great messages of support. Some even for me! (If anyone is wondering - YELM is my Mum - Your Ever Loving Mother! - thats how she sign's off her emails :-) ) The other thing is the different sort of donations we've had. A big thanks to Craig Robertson from Briscoes - he's offered to sponsor my running shoes. So Rebel Sports are kitting me out with a new pair which I will definately need! And a big thanks to Grant Webster and the team at THL who have kindly offered the use of a campervan for a weekend. I've got the campaign team working on it right now and i'm certain we can raffle it off and raise some big money. Or even use it for Christian - if it's poosible he could get away for a weekend with the family. Eother way - we'll make the most of it - many thanks. As for the running - the breakdown is below. If you are really interested the link to mapmyrun is here. I forgot to give you my log in details last week - but here they are: Username: jessmith password: Christian Here are all my runs which are tracked by the GPS on the iphone. Brilliant eh! Thinking of doing an 'Open' run in the near future. Maybe a Saturday 10k if anyone's interested? See if we can't get a gang of us together and you can share a bit of the journey! I'll keep you posted. Cheers Jes - 1) Mixed ? sun & cloud, Just dropped Lou off at airport How the hell will I cope? Hence ? long run! 7.9m. 2) Windy night in Auckland town!, First guest runners tonight ? well, walkers. Joe, Mills and Max join me for my warm up lap round the park. Much more fun with 4! Easy peasy tonight ? could have done more. 5.22 m. 3) Clear night, calm. Gutted that the neighbour has put up flags bigger than ours. Bet hefs a Jones! Also- Zac Guilford: drinking problem or leadership problem? Feel an ON2net poll coming on... 4.94 m. 4) Overcast, calm night. Louise has been away 4 days, and Ifve done 4 loads of washing. Is this normal? Bit of a bad outing ? turned ankle a bit, and itfs just not right. Ran it off ? ice massage to follow. 5.2 m. 5) Overcast & calm again. Last run of the week ? and desperately need a day off, Ankle still sore ? and tonight the knee! Listen to me ? imagine Christianfs pain. Putfs things into perspective a bitc. Worked hard for a day off! 4.42 m. Total 27.68 m.

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  • Week1 of a Marathon of Marathons for Christian

      17 September 2011

    So we're off! About 2 weeks ago I had the ridiculous idea of 'A marathon of marathons for Christian'. Not sure how I came up with the idea, I just woke up one morning and the idea was there. If only I had woken up thinking smething else... So - Its the end of Week 1, and here's the report! Week 1: W/C 10th September 2011 - Run #, Conditions & Thoughts on route Distance 1) Big Blue Sky - What a start, perfect weather, can wait to get into this. RWC is at fever pitch ? its fantastic! Come on ENGLAND (first game tonight v Argies) 3.52 m. 2) Big Blue again! - Should have worn sunscreen yesterday! All things considered ? happy with England result. 4.45 m. 3) Horrible Wet n Windy - What the hell happened with the weather! Lou had to bring the flags in off the balcony at 2 am! Havenft done enough prep for talk tomorrow. Bugger 3.79 m. 4) Cold, dark and wet - OK ? whofs idea was this? Knees hurt like hell already. I wonder if people think I might not actually keep it up? Maybe I should keep a diary of runs? 6.36m. 5) Cold, dark and windy - Now my knees definitely hurt more than yesterday. Got Max with me whofs struggling to keep up. Poor bugger ? best slow down. He has 4 legs as well! Gonna struggle to do much tonightc 1.7 m. 6) Fresh night ? a few spots Much better tonight, feeling good. The rest must have helped. BCS brand activity cards would be a great iphone app. Must look intoc 4.04m. 7) Rain, clear, wind, rain, clear! - Bloody Auckland weather. Glad Ifve only got a few to do. ABfs on shortly. Move it Max! 4.1m. Total 27.94m Yeehaa!

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