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Atacama Crossing Blogs 2010
21
PostsAtacama Crossing (2010) blog posts from Marilena Wilkinson
17 March 2010 12:24 pm (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Later....... a Post Script
I am suffering both from sore feet and from withdrawal symptoms!
Last week at this time I was in the desert with all my new friends, battling against the elements, helping each other to reach the next checkpoint, the next campsite. This week I am in Vina del Mar with some super friends who I have known for 25 years, but I have been to the hospital twice for extensive treatment for my feet, and now have to lie with them raised, doing nothing.
Snap out of it, Marilena, I tell myself. Last week was super, a great experience; new friends; lots of money raised for the Friedreich´s Ataxia charities, wonderful messages from around the world, and a most impressive medal to prove that I actually did complete the Atacama Crossing. Imagine: 250km across the driest desert in the world!! And the doctor told me this morning that I would be running again in matter of days, not weeks or months as I had first feared.
Life is good, and I know that I am a better person for having tested myself to the limit in the desert. For the few days before the vent and then during the entire length of it, I got close to a great bunch of new friends, some almost as crazy as me. It was really hard to say goodbye, and I look forward to keeping in touch and seeing them again in the future.
Thank you to the Atacama Crossing organisers and all the volunteers and staff who made it all possible. The smile which was permanently across my face was real. I loved it, every minute and every hard earned kilometer of it, and, as Alan is always saying: If the Pope´s a Catholic, I am going to do another of these crazy 4Deserts events!!
Lots of love to you all,
Marilena
15 March 2010 06:28 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Stage 5 was tough. I set of at 7.30 Friday morning with 75kms lurking menacingly ahead. That is why my mind needed to be so strong, and I am so grateful it was. The terrain was rocky, uneven, harsh and so we pushed on through it. Some softer sand, and sweeping dunes, but today they all seemed to send us uphill. Mind again! Through the day we moved on, and it got hotter and hotter. I remember when I lived in Chile (too many years ago!) the hottest time of the day seemed to be 4pm - and I knew therefore that I was inexorably heading for hotter and hotter temperatures, with not even a hint of cloud or shade to lessen the effect. Evening, that is what I was looking forward to, but I also knew that the length of this stage would mean several hours in dark, and I asked my self how cold it would get when the sun fell out of the sky to the west. The answer, I quickly found out, especially as a strong wind sprang up, was chillingly low. And still we trudged on - for now we were indeed trudging! I still felt good, but when the sun went down, at about 8.30, I had been out for 13 hours, and still had something like 20km/half-a-marathon/2 10ks still to do, and by this time I was walking with Bert, my Belgian friend, who speaks fluent spanish from Spain, as he is married to a lady from Spain. 20km to go! Mind yet again! It hurt, especially my poor feet and the horrible blisters. Why had I developed blisters? And why such bad ones? Every step was painful. How to overcome that pain? I thought of the charity I was running for, and all those suffering from FA. I thought of Paolo with MS; Tremaine running all 4 Deserts this year for Cancer Research; I thought of the Help the Heroes Team. I thought of my family, and all my friends around the world supporting me. My mind still was strong, and even though it was so cold, and Bert was not feeling very well, we pushed on, not stopping for more than a couple of minutes at any of the checkpoints - we feared that if we can stopped for longer we would not have been able to get ourselves moving again. It was so cold, but the 20km became 15, then 10, then 5, 3, then 1, and finally, finally, some time after 1am the campsite could be seen courtesy of the brilliant show the billions of stars were putting on for us. Exhausted, but with a wonderful sense of achievement, I reached my home:Tent #12.
Comments: Total (4) comments
Posted On: 16 Mar 2010 05:46 pm
Querida Marilena, es realmente emotiva cada experiencia que tratas de mostrar en tu blog. Me alegra de sobremanera que hayas podido cumplir con tu objetivo y que con ello puedas finalmente hacer felices (de forma directa o indirecta) a muchas personas.
Te mandamos - junto con mi madre, abuelos y perritos - un abrazo gigantezco desde Santiago, esperamos mantener el contacto contigo y te deseamos de corazón puedas seguir demostrando lo valiosa que eres a cada persona que se cruza frente a ti.
Tu amigo del avión y bus de Montevideo a Santiago. Joc
Posted On: 16 Mar 2010 11:07 am
you are a Saint !
The thought of your blisters in a land of earthquake gives me nightmares .
Please come back quick to HK to celebrate !
Lots of love .
Brigitte
Posted On: 15 Mar 2010 08:35 pm
What an awesome achievement Marilena. It will stay with you always.
Thanks for the wonderful blog. I'm so glad you made it. I'm doing RTP Australia, so it has been fantastic to follow Atacama and get a sense of what an event like this is about. Despite the difficulties, you sounded like you enjoyed it! That is what I am hoping for in Australia.
Best wishes Margaret
Posted On: 15 Mar 2010 02:54 pm
Querida Marilena estoy tan contenta de que finalmente terminaste....pero voy a extranar la lectura de tu gran aventura!!!!Ahora tenes que escribir un libro !!!!! Compliments again y de madre a madre Gracias por lo que haces por mi hija Veronica y por todos los de Ataxia.un beso enorme y agradece a todos tambien de parte nuestra por las donaciones.
15 March 2010 06:11 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Stage 6 A stroll to the finish?
Errrrr, no.
With most of us finishing quite late last night, with no briefing today, and with the final little stage not due to sart until mid-day, it should have been a lie-in for us all today. Yes? Errrr, no! There was excitement around the campsite from 7am onwards, and any further sleep soon became as unlikey as a short sharp shower. It seemed an age, therefore before we were all assembled at the starting line for our dash for home. Yes? Errrrr, no. The first 2 km were all uphill through jagged rocks, and I think that for most of us they were probably the slowest 2km of the week. And my feet hurt!
Eventually, the course flatenned out, the speedsters raced ahead, and I realised that my race, which I had prepared for for so long, which had been gruelling in the extreme - cruel at times - but which I had enjoyed so very much, was quickly coming to an end. But even with the pain, I didn´t want it to end. I concentrated on the scenery - the dry, arid lansdcape, the volcanoes in the distance, the sheer never-endingness of it. I looked without success to see my 3rd bird of the week. I savoured every minute, almost hoping the finishing line would get further away rather then ever closer. All too soon, I was in the final straight, and I remembered my lines: I unfurled my Venezuelan flag and held it high and wide just like I had seen the Olympic champions in Beijing; I brought the broad grin back to my face even though I was not pleased to be finishing my race; I completely forgot my painful feet; and to a crescendo of cheers, applauds an drumbeats, I crossed the line: tired - exhausted even - but so happy. Alan was there to put the medal around my neck and give me a hug and a kiss, and so were all my new-found friends who had all helped make this such a wonderful week. And yes, over to the side, as promised, there was pizza and coca cola. I grabbed a piece, then another, and then back to the finishing line to cheer in some more of my new friends, more photos, more hugs, more tears of relief, of happiness, and yes, of achievemnt.
What a week! I will never forget it. But I hope my feet will!!
Errrrr, no.
With most of us finishing quite late last night, with no briefing today, and with the final little stage not due to sart until mid-day, it should have been a lie-in for us all today. Yes? Errrr, no! There was excitement around the campsite from 7am onwards, and any further sleep soon became as unlikey as a short sharp shower. It seemed an age, therefore before we were all assembled at the starting line for our dash for home. Yes? Errrrr, no. The first 2 km were all uphill through jagged rocks, and I think that for most of us they were probably the slowest 2km of the week. And my feet hurt!
Eventually, the course flatenned out, the speedsters raced ahead, and I realised that my race, which I had prepared for for so long, which had been gruelling in the extreme - cruel at times - but which I had enjoyed so very much, was quickly coming to an end. But even with the pain, I didn´t want it to end. I concentrated on the scenery - the dry, arid lansdcape, the volcanoes in the distance, the sheer never-endingness of it. I looked without success to see my 3rd bird of the week. I savoured every minute, almost hoping the finishing line would get further away rather then ever closer. All too soon, I was in the final straight, and I remembered my lines: I unfurled my Venezuelan flag and held it high and wide just like I had seen the Olympic champions in Beijing; I brought the broad grin back to my face even though I was not pleased to be finishing my race; I completely forgot my painful feet; and to a crescendo of cheers, applauds an drumbeats, I crossed the line: tired - exhausted even - but so happy. Alan was there to put the medal around my neck and give me a hug and a kiss, and so were all my new-found friends who had all helped make this such a wonderful week. And yes, over to the side, as promised, there was pizza and coca cola. I grabbed a piece, then another, and then back to the finishing line to cheer in some more of my new friends, more photos, more hugs, more tears of relief, of happiness, and yes, of achievemnt.
What a week! I will never forget it. But I hope my feet will!!
Comments: Total (0) comments
13 March 2010 11:20 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
HOORAY!!!
I have finished the long stage 76km in one go.
It was an amazing experience. Very painful because of my blisters, but apart from that my body is feel fine,
It was difficult all along, the salt plains weren't as I thought, smooth all along, no way, it was crusty and very difficult to even walk on it, and with my feet, horrible.
We had long march along stony, sand uo hill. Very long along sand with magnificent surroundings.
Then we had a very long, steep sand dune, I don't know what I have done if I felt backwards -would have to do it all again.
After that there was a very long path, difficult on your feet. More sand, up and down.
Our last strech in the dark we thought was going to be easier, but not, it was gruelling. Up hills, down dunes, up again and down along this beautiful canyon, sometimes you had to sit down to jump to carry on walking. Very long, but the sky was beautiful, full of stars. After that we had a long strech all the way up and down to our camp.
It was a very long day, difficult, but I'm glad I did it.
Will tell you with more details later. Today we have only 10km to our fiinish line.
I will talk to you all later. Looking forewrd to real food, a nice sort bed and of course to a very cold Pisco Sour.
Take care, many thanks for all your messages and good wishes.
Love you all.
Marilena x
I have finished the long stage 76km in one go.
It was an amazing experience. Very painful because of my blisters, but apart from that my body is feel fine,
It was difficult all along, the salt plains weren't as I thought, smooth all along, no way, it was crusty and very difficult to even walk on it, and with my feet, horrible.
We had long march along stony, sand uo hill. Very long along sand with magnificent surroundings.
Then we had a very long, steep sand dune, I don't know what I have done if I felt backwards -would have to do it all again.
After that there was a very long path, difficult on your feet. More sand, up and down.
Our last strech in the dark we thought was going to be easier, but not, it was gruelling. Up hills, down dunes, up again and down along this beautiful canyon, sometimes you had to sit down to jump to carry on walking. Very long, but the sky was beautiful, full of stars. After that we had a long strech all the way up and down to our camp.
It was a very long day, difficult, but I'm glad I did it.
Will tell you with more details later. Today we have only 10km to our fiinish line.
I will talk to you all later. Looking forewrd to real food, a nice sort bed and of course to a very cold Pisco Sour.
Take care, many thanks for all your messages and good wishes.
Love you all.
Marilena x
Comments: Total (7) comments
Posted On: 14 Mar 2010 11:43 pm
Great job! I think Alan should join you on the next one! Congratulations on such a great and unique accomplishment!
All the best,
Brian
Posted On: 14 Mar 2010 11:36 pm
You're amazing Marilena!
Well done so far. good luck for the last bit. hope you have enough to eat left in the rucksack. See you back in Richmond Park for training
Posted On: 14 Mar 2010 10:02 pm
Go Girl
Ataxia South Wales
Ataxia UK Trustee
Posted On: 14 Mar 2010 03:09 pm
yeeepeeee yaaapaaa yuuuuu!!!!! (aplausos, admiraciones, sonrisas...) en ningun momento tubimos ni la mas pequenita duda de que ud chama iba a terminar esa proesa! no jile! no serias tu! jeje, con o sin ampolla, asi fuera gatiando! (mas admiracion, aplausos, sonrisas, ahy que veres... etcetera etcetera etcatera) besos muchos y well dones y ahora a celebrar y descansar y prepararte para los otros tres! ahyuuu. Besos y que Dios te bendiga esa voluntad, determinacion y empeno carrizo! Te queremos muchisimo xxx
Posted On: 14 Mar 2010 12:53 pm
Muy bien ,increible sos unica Congratulation. Te esperamos para festejar en Hong Kong. Estabamos preocupados por tus ampollas pero sabiamos que tu fuerza sonrrisas fe .......te harian llegaras al final.in beso enorme. Los Pepe y Los Chan
Posted On: 14 Mar 2010 01:41 am
Hola Marilena! No sé si te acordarás de mí del Golf... estoy demasiado impresionada con esta proeza que estás haciendo... mi admiración a la tenacidad y voluntad impresionante. Te mando un beso grande. Hoy corrimos la San Felipe, son 10k que para vos es NADA!!! Idola.
Posted On: 14 Mar 2010 12:44 am
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!
We love you very much and we are very proud of you.
Keep moving......you are pretty close to the end line.
Warms regards from your fan club in Bogota: Gustavo, Cristina< Luna y Samuel.
11 March 2010 06:59 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Hola a todos mis amigos, mi Wilko, Crista, Robbie y Ale.y toda mi familia.
Les cuento que estoy bien, pero un poco adolrida, pues tengo unas ampollas gigantes en la planta del pie izquierdo.
Hoy fue un dia divertido pero muy duro, tuvimos subidas interminables, dunas en subida y bajada. Las de bajda eran tan empinadas que tenias que bajar casi acostada. Increible.
Luego tuvimos que cruzar un riachuelito sucio y lleno de no se que. Luego mas subidas y despues pasar por un pueblito muy pinturesco.
Y al final cruzamos el Salar de Atacama por 14km, lo unico malo fue que cada paso que daba era tan doloroso, peropudo haber sido peor.
En total 43km.
A mis amigos chilenos,espero esten bien. Mis pensamientos etsan con ustedes'
Hi there,
Today was a tough one, four gone but the big one is tomorrow'
Today we had a long way up and up, never stoped, then had sand dunes, a dirty stream crossing. More dunes down hill, very funny and fun to do.
We had to go down almost laying side ways so we didn.t fly forwaed all the way down, exciting.
Then as this was not enough, we had to cross a dirty stream. More dunes, through a very small dusty town, and finally the salt plains, not bad,
the only thing I had a big blister on the sole of my left foot, every step I made was so painful. Then back to camp along a dusty roas.
I had my blisters looked at and they gave antibiotics. I hope they will be alright for tomorrow, for the long march- 75km-
Anyway I will finish it, God willing, even if I crawl all the way.
Take care you all. I love you very much, and you are all in my thoughts along the way.
Besos y carinos
Marilena, macki, mama xxxxxxx
Les cuento que estoy bien, pero un poco adolrida, pues tengo unas ampollas gigantes en la planta del pie izquierdo.
Hoy fue un dia divertido pero muy duro, tuvimos subidas interminables, dunas en subida y bajada. Las de bajda eran tan empinadas que tenias que bajar casi acostada. Increible.
Luego tuvimos que cruzar un riachuelito sucio y lleno de no se que. Luego mas subidas y despues pasar por un pueblito muy pinturesco.
Y al final cruzamos el Salar de Atacama por 14km, lo unico malo fue que cada paso que daba era tan doloroso, peropudo haber sido peor.
En total 43km.
A mis amigos chilenos,espero esten bien. Mis pensamientos etsan con ustedes'
Hi there,
Today was a tough one, four gone but the big one is tomorrow'
Today we had a long way up and up, never stoped, then had sand dunes, a dirty stream crossing. More dunes down hill, very funny and fun to do.
We had to go down almost laying side ways so we didn.t fly forwaed all the way down, exciting.
Then as this was not enough, we had to cross a dirty stream. More dunes, through a very small dusty town, and finally the salt plains, not bad,
the only thing I had a big blister on the sole of my left foot, every step I made was so painful. Then back to camp along a dusty roas.
I had my blisters looked at and they gave antibiotics. I hope they will be alright for tomorrow, for the long march- 75km-
Anyway I will finish it, God willing, even if I crawl all the way.
Take care you all. I love you very much, and you are all in my thoughts along the way.
Besos y carinos
Marilena, macki, mama xxxxxxx
Comments: Total (22) comments
Posted On: 16 Mar 2010 01:48 am
arriba negrita tu puedes estamos orgullosos de ti esas ampollas bien valen la pena te quiero mucho hermanita logralo por todos besitos
Posted On: 15 Mar 2010 07:05 am
Many, many congratulations, Marilena! You\'ve done it! Cannot even imagine the pain and discomfort you were going through with those nasty infected blisters. No doubt about it - you are TRUE GRIT! Sounds like you had a great reception committee at San Pedro. Enjoy the luxury of a real bed, a real loo and real food. I know how good that all feels after the deprivation. See you in HK soon. Love Lesley xxx
Posted On: 13 Mar 2010 02:17 pm
hola Marilena!que logro!felicitaciones y fuerza para el
ultimo tramo.Rosana cuidara de tus pieds despues...beso
grande Claudia.
Posted On: 13 Mar 2010 11:43 am
Mari
Animo aqui estamos orgullosos de ti y de lo que estas haciendo, estas en nuestros corazones y te esperamos (los tres) para celebrar
Un Beso
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 11:00 pm
It's incredible to receive your blog and we both are with you in spirit. Hang in there Marilena - you are an amazing woman about to achieve the unbelievable! With our very best wishes from Mexico - Andy and Nicky
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 07:31 pm
Marilena, un logro increible! Te mereces toda la admiración y felicitaciones de los que te conocemos. Dios te bendiga y muchos besos
Rosa xx
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 06:30 pm
Animo que casi logras llegar al final. Las ampollas ya tendras tiempo de curarlas.
Eres un ejemplo para todos nosotros
Un beso y que dios te bendiga y te proteja
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 06:13 pm
Almost there and I thank Alan for helping me find the blog. You are amazing, Marilena, and I take my hat off to you. Hope the blisters on your left foot are mending ok for you to finish. We take our hats off to you.
We love you,
Chris and Rebeca.
You are almost there - a little effort and it will all be over. Then the parties start with you as the Heroine. You are a surprise coming over here, finishing the race and then the parties start, with you as the Heroine.
We love you,
Chris and Rebeca.
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 06:10 pm
Almost there and I thank Alan for helping me find the blog. You are amazing, Marilena, and I take my hat off to you.
We love you,
Chris and Rebeca.
You are almost there - a little effort and it will all be over. Then the parties start with you as the Heroine. You are a surprise coming over here, finishing the race and then the parties start, with you as the Heroine.
We love you,
Chris and Rebeca.
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 04:23 pm
Marilena que maravilla todo lo que has hecho y todo lo que has dado en esta maraton!!!!! Cuidese los pies y aunque se que llegaras a la final, ya para nosotros llegaste hace rato.Un beso enorme de todos los Pepe, los Chan,y de Angelo jr. que te agradece lo que haces por su mama.
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 04:22 pm
un gran beso Marilena y adelante,felicitaciones por tu compañerismo y por la gran persona que eres.
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 04:22 pm
un gran beso Marilena y adelante,felicitaciones por tu compañerismo y por la gran persona que eres.
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 04:22 pm
un gran beso Marilena y adelante,felicitaciones por tu compañerismo y por la gran persona que eres.
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 03:33 pm
Como te admiro. Adelante si puedes pero si no de todos modos lo que has logrado es inconcebible para todos nosotros. Debes de estar muy orgullosa de haber hecho esto.
Animo y adelante.
Un gran abrazo desde Hong Kong
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 11:59 am
59 and still can't spell my own name!!
You should be well on your way by now my angel. Dig deep and you can do it. Friends are willing you on from all over the world.
On On
Mexxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 11:34 am
Stellar achievement, Marilena.
We are willing you on from Down-Under!
Our love and best wishes
Martin and Norma
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 09:44 am
aaaiyaaaa! ya casi terminas! vas muy bien! no dejes que te gane el viejito! jaja espero que estes tomando muchas fotos!
xx
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 09:29 am
Mamita linda - you are a superstar! we are all so proud of you and excited you have made it this far! and yes agree with aymara - adelante caballo - pero si no puedes, no siguas, todos te queremos igual si terminas o no!! of course we are willing you to finish, we are all thinking of you but you have to think of yourself and make sure your feet are ok - cuidate tontasa! te quiero mucho mucho mucho!! slowly slowly catchy monkey! love you xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 09:26 am
huhuhuhu casi casi, vamos ya los ultimos empujoncitos y la linea final te espera. Siguiendo contigo paso a paso la carrera. Muchas fuerzas para el proximo stage.
Un beso
tiby
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 09:15 am
Almost there, my Angel. Go for it, and I\'ll be there to see you cross the line. This is an amazing achievement, and am so proud of you.
Lots and lots of love,
Mexxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 09:15 am
Almost there, my Angel. Go for it, and I'll be there to see you cross the line. This is an amazing achievement, and am so proud of you.
Lots and lots of love,
Mexxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 06:01 am
dale dale vale que ya casi llegas! vamos chamita con o sin ampolla echele para adelante que para atras ni pa' cojer vuelo! aqui estamos pendientes y empujandote con nuestros pensamientos!!! besos y bendiciones muamuamua
10 March 2010 05:50 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Hi there,thanks for all the mesages you have sent me. I really love receiving them.
Keep them coming.
Wel I have done three stages so far. Yesterday was tough, but I really enjoyed it very much, even with my horrible blisters.
We crossed a river about thirty times, cold water, but it was so much fun, the we went up and up and up, until we got to the top and down the dunes we came, it was one of the fun things I ever done, then we went along a very tedious long path, hot -45 centigrades.
I tried to help one of the competitors that was strugling, but it was very nice to have done so.
Today, it was tough, first we went along this salty crust with very dry grass, tha cut you.
Then a very long way along tall grassy patches, then more crusty salts.
More sand dunes up and down and very long way through difficult terrain, temperature again 45 centigrades.
Tomorro will be very difficult. But I.m hanging there enjoying every bit of the way.
Many thanks for all the good wishes. You help me all the way.
Love you al very much.
Marilena xxxxx
Keep them coming.
Wel I have done three stages so far. Yesterday was tough, but I really enjoyed it very much, even with my horrible blisters.
We crossed a river about thirty times, cold water, but it was so much fun, the we went up and up and up, until we got to the top and down the dunes we came, it was one of the fun things I ever done, then we went along a very tedious long path, hot -45 centigrades.
I tried to help one of the competitors that was strugling, but it was very nice to have done so.
Today, it was tough, first we went along this salty crust with very dry grass, tha cut you.
Then a very long way along tall grassy patches, then more crusty salts.
More sand dunes up and down and very long way through difficult terrain, temperature again 45 centigrades.
Tomorro will be very difficult. But I.m hanging there enjoying every bit of the way.
Many thanks for all the good wishes. You help me all the way.
Love you al very much.
Marilena xxxxx
Comments: Total (13) comments
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 07:14 pm
Hola Marilucita!
Ahora estamos en Londres en casa de Tania, estamos contigo. Un beso enorme. Migue me esta reganando porque vamos a cenar y como buen Venezolanos estamos tarde jijijijijiji.
Todos te mandan saludos.
XXXXXXX
Gaby
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 06:02 pm
te estamos acompanhando, carolina, tony, jack y yo desde laguna blanca!!! keep going, falta poco! esta noche viene alan a tomar algo y a charlar, estaremos pensando en vos, mandandote muuuuuchas energias, ok? fuerza mujer e muchos carinhos, ro
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 02:40 pm
Superb effort, my angel.
Keep it up. Is there a Mrs Congeniality award??!!??
Love,
Mexxxxxxxxxxxx
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 02:22 pm
Bravo!!!!!, estamos orgullosos de vos en Mendoza (Argentina), seguimos tu recorrido constantemente, Sos maravillosa, te queremos mucho, estamos seguros que vas a estar bien, cuidate y cuando pases por acá nos vemos. !!!!!Fuerza!!!!!!
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 01:49 pm
felicidades y sigue disfrutando esa maravillosa experiencia. Eres un ejemplo de tenacidad. Curate esas ampollas y que dios te siga protegiendo.
Un beso y que dios te bendiga
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 01:13 pm
Cannot stop thinking of you when on the treadmill at the LRC!..
Thank you for being such
an inspiration.Not sure I can join you next time though ...Don't forget the sun tan lotion and enjoy this unique experience ! et encore Bravo !
Bisou
Brigitte
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 12:57 pm
Mi amiga loquita!!! Estamos
muy orgullosos de ti... Eres una vencedora!!! Mucha suerte y fuerza querida, besitos
Dani y Gio
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 12:52 pm
Hola Marilena, que experiencia increíble la que estás viviendo!!
Hemos leído tus relatos e indudablemente no nos extraña que te hayas quedado apoyando a otros corredores "sacrificando" la performance individual.... Espero que tus ampollas estén mejor y que disfrutes mucho estos ultimos día de carrera. Mucha suerte, a cuidarse y a la vuelta queremos más anécdotas. Un beso y a darle con tutti...
Diego
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 06:27 am
Thinking of you every second of the day.
Please take good care of yourself and make sure you are getting enough rest! You are amazing Marilena.
So sweet of you to help others along the way, I'm sure they are very grateful.
I've seen Cristina the past 2 days and am looking forward to giving you a big hug when you come to HK.
I will pray for you and your poor little feet. Keep going, you can do this.
Te quiero much y solo tu eres capaz de acer esta cosa tan increible.
FUERZA!
Vale X
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 04:53 am
Te admiramos. Adelante.
Rezamos por ti. Un beso grande de tus amigas en Hong Kong.
Pray with faith and love and you will make it.
We love you
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 03:05 am
Te Imagino con una sonrisa durante todo el trayecto y con tu pasion por lo que estas haciendo y eso es un ejemplo para mi y todos tus amigos de Hong Kong. Besitos.
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 03:02 am
You are doing so brilliantly Marilena - what a star! You should definitely get the prize for the most upbeat competitor of all time. From the sublime to the ridiculous - I've just climbed Violet Hill. It's chilly here - 8C the other day, 12C today a far cry from 45C but at least it's keeping the snakes away. I saw 3 during a recent warm spell. Hope your pack is feeling lighter! Love Lesley F xxx
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 02:11 am
Impresionante!!!! que experiencia!!! cariños y cuidate mucho MaJesus
08 March 2010 05:45 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
To my Dear Family, Friends and my FARA and Ataxia UK friends.
A mi adorada familia, amigos y mis amigos de FARA y Ataxia UK
Yesterday we came to camp 1, everybody is very nice and we are all the same -crazy-.
This morning we got up at 5,45am, to get everything ready for the first day. Panic, panic, but at the end I was ready, had breakfast,etc.
At 8,15am we all run at the sound of drums and local chilean music, so exciting. And to know that I am the FIRST venezuelan to do a Racing The Planet race.even more, my flag is flying among so many others now.
I'm glad to say that the first stage of our race is over, 38km, the organizers warned us thst was going to be a very difficult race, and indeed it was a tough one, but thank God I finished it without any problem. There was a very long tedious, hot and no wind canon, and all was uphill, But it was very interesting and amazing views.
I can't explain in so short mesage how amazing it was..
.
I'm glad to say that my body is fit and fine, but the only problem is my back pack, is sooooo heavy, I don't know why, I think I'm going to eat a lot tonight to get rid of some of my weight,
You maybe say that I'm crazy, because i REALLY ENJOYED IT. By wednesday I will take less time because my pack will be lees heavy.
The scenery, the deep blue sky and the magnificent stars at night are amazing, I'm taking photos and when I get back to Uruguay I will be sending them for all to see.
Tomorrow will be 42km, I will tell you all about it tomorrow night.
Many thanks for all the best wishes and all the love that you have sent me. You might not believe me, but you are all in my thoughts and when I'm feeling a bit down I think of you and even talk to some of you.
Take care you all,
Lots of lovre and kisses from me in the Desert xx
A mi adorada familia, amigos y mis amigos de FARA y Ataxia UK
Yesterday we came to camp 1, everybody is very nice and we are all the same -crazy-.
This morning we got up at 5,45am, to get everything ready for the first day. Panic, panic, but at the end I was ready, had breakfast,etc.
At 8,15am we all run at the sound of drums and local chilean music, so exciting. And to know that I am the FIRST venezuelan to do a Racing The Planet race.even more, my flag is flying among so many others now.
I'm glad to say that the first stage of our race is over, 38km, the organizers warned us thst was going to be a very difficult race, and indeed it was a tough one, but thank God I finished it without any problem. There was a very long tedious, hot and no wind canon, and all was uphill, But it was very interesting and amazing views.
I can't explain in so short mesage how amazing it was..
.
I'm glad to say that my body is fit and fine, but the only problem is my back pack, is sooooo heavy, I don't know why, I think I'm going to eat a lot tonight to get rid of some of my weight,
You maybe say that I'm crazy, because i REALLY ENJOYED IT. By wednesday I will take less time because my pack will be lees heavy.
The scenery, the deep blue sky and the magnificent stars at night are amazing, I'm taking photos and when I get back to Uruguay I will be sending them for all to see.
Tomorrow will be 42km, I will tell you all about it tomorrow night.
Many thanks for all the best wishes and all the love that you have sent me. You might not believe me, but you are all in my thoughts and when I'm feeling a bit down I think of you and even talk to some of you.
Take care you all,
Lots of lovre and kisses from me in the Desert xx
Comments: Total (11) comments
Posted On: 13 Mar 2010 04:37 am
y por donde andas amiguita que no te veo, Te puedes venir caminando hasta Singapur ahora que estas en esa onda! aqui tienes un fan club, full de admiradores y yo soy la presidenta! besitos y que te guarden los angelitos! muamuamua
Posted On: 12 Mar 2010 10:18 am
Marilena sos una idola! Increíble esfuerzo, imagino esos piecitos, pobrecitos, pero solo falta muy poquito, ya casi estás, lo vas a lograr. Cuidate mucho.
un fuerte abrazo y toda mi buena onda.
Sos única Marilena. FUERZA!!
Posted On: 11 Mar 2010 06:59 am
do you remember me, Monica's friend in HK??? oh my God, you are amazing, I wish I could do something like this, you have an amazing courage!! Well done!! Susanna
Posted On: 10 Mar 2010 07:10 am
Brilliant my Angel. Very well done. Keep it up, but take it easy - if you can.
Lots of love,
Mexxxxxxxxxxx
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 09:57 pm
Felicitaciones.....
Que bueno saber que hay una banderita de Venezuela corriendo contigo. Besos...
Dios te acompañe
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 03:46 pm
Great job Marilena! We are thinking of you and pulling for you at FARA. Can't wait to see some of your pictures. What an incredible journey.
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 03:43 pm
felicidades, ya lograste terminar la primera etapa, solo te faltan seis mas. Animo eres increible. te quiero mucho
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 03:40 pm
Go Go
Dont eat all your food, in one sitting !! save some for later.
Ataxia South Wales
Ataxia UK Trustee
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 03:25 pm
Marilena,
Congratulations on a most successful start. It is so exciting to read your blog and hear about your amazing adventure - gave me chills. What you are doing is so inspiring for all of us and gives the FA community great hope.
Don't eat all your food too soon - I bet you will be craving calories at the end!
Be safe.
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 02:18 am
no puedo creer que lo "enjoyaste" jaja 38km... suerte tontasa! todos estamos pensando en ti! xxx
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 02:00 am
eres una tontasa!! casi me hiciste llorar!! te quiero mucho and im very proud of you silly mummy! do what you can, be happy with your ability, never get disheartened and think about how amazing it is what you are doing! AND dont throw away any food becasue in the last couple of days you will be wishing you hadnt thrown it all away!
TE QUIERO xxxxxx
04 March 2010 10:08 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Thursday 4Mar - Santiago
I know that there will be many horror stories about flights to Chile for the Atacama Crossing, but none of them can begin to compare with the horror experienced by so many Chileans as a result of the devastating earthquakes, and the subsequent after-shocks. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them.
When I made my on-line check-in, and was issued with my e-boarding pass, I thought my flight to Santiago yesterday was going to be hastle-free. But no. Alan got me to the airport at mid-day, having made two stops on the way for last-minute "provisions", only to find that my Pluna flight had been cancelled. We were told that any furture flights for the next week would be giving priority to returning Chileans and there was little chance of a flight for me before 8Mar at the earliest. What to do??
We spent the afternoon looking all other options, and just as we were going to book Buenos Aires to Salta and then bus over the Andes, I managed to get a flight on LAN to Mendoza at 7pm with onward connection by bus to Santiago. All passed without problem except that the Chilean immigration officers were not too happy with some of my provisions for the event and, annoyingly confiscated my beef jerky and my dried fruits.
I arrived in Santiago at 5am, at the extremely-dangerous-at-that-time-of-the-morning Alameda Sur bus station. No taxis, nothing open, really quite scary. One of the boys I had been sitting with on the bus said I could not stay at the bus station, and insisted I go with him to his Grandparents' house in one of the sprawling barrios of Santiago. What wonderful people: very humble, but they welcomed me into their house, gave me breakfast, and then took me to the metro and on my way to meet an old friend. I will never, ever, forget their kindness.
Am now on my way to the airport, being driven by the chauffeur of the CEO of HSBC Chile, and am booked on a 4.30 flight this afternoon to Calama. Fingers and everything else crossed!
See you all soon, I hope.
Love
Marilena
Comments: Total (9) comments
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 11:40 pm
Te admiramos en Hong Kong. Todas en AMHH estan siguiendo tu progreso.
Muchos ánimos y Dios te protega y te bendiga.
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 05:16 pm
Cuidate mucho y animo que tu eres una guerrera de corazón y todos te apoyamos con todo nuestro cariño y plegarias para que salgas triunfante de esta aventura tan grandiosa.
Posted On: 09 Mar 2010 04:09 pm
On behalf of the FA community, we thank you Marilena and admire your strength and the incredible person you are!
Posted On: 08 Mar 2010 11:40 pm
Animo Marilena!!!
desde Hong Kong te deseamos mucha suerte y que disfrutes tu gran carrera...
Posted On: 07 Mar 2010 12:53 pm
Yikes - Nothing like adding to the challenge.
Good Luck today as you start the event! We are all cheering you on.
Posted On: 07 Mar 2010 12:22 am
wauuu!Marilena! Tu maratona
empezo mucho antes...que
aventura!Te deseo mucha fuerza y corage,estaré piensando en ti .Te admiro
mucho;besos Claudia
Posted On: 06 Mar 2010 02:53 pm
Siempre lo penses" sos extraordinaria."Te queremos mucho y que Dios bendiga en todo tu recorrido!!!.Te esperamos en Hong Kong. Gracias de parte de los Pepe.
Posted On: 04 Mar 2010 10:52 pm
Go Marilena Go! We're cheering you on in the states. Safe journey.
Posted On: 04 Mar 2010 10:45 pm
Wow, what a beginning to your adventure. Sounds a little scary but we are all pulling for you!
26 February 2010 07:25 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Thursday 25Feb Training with "Profe" Tato
This is what I have been waiting for - another training session with my Profesor Tato, who prepared me for my first marathon in 2007, and also helped with London and Edinburgh. Together with about 12 other "students", we assembled at Punta Gorda in Montevideo at 7.30 am and Tato put us through our paces for the next 90 minutes. After a 2km walm-up, we did running drills and techniques, push-ups, sit-ups, running up an almost vertical grass wall, hopping on one foot then the next, squats, uphill zig-zags etc etc, and finishing with a steady paced 4km run. All hard work, but I loved it and felt great afterwards.
As I was jogging back to my car, on the beach, I came across a group of American girls arriving at the beach, when one of them said to the others, not expecting me to understand, "Wow, one day I would like to be that brown", and I couldn't resist an automatic reply: "Well, you have to run a lot." I wish I had had my camera to record the look on all their faces.....................
Take care you lot and I will see you all very soon. Don't forget to taper!!
Comments: Total (4) comments
Posted On: 03 Mar 2010 07:13 am
suerte mama! xxx
Posted On: 27 Feb 2010 11:47 pm
Wow Tato, great name great workout. Great Suntan, it all sounds good. See you out there.
Posted On: 27 Feb 2010 12:36 pm
Hi Tremaine,
Don't worry, you just need lots of sunblock and will be fine. I'm the opposite, I get black just looking out of the window. So I have to put lots of sunblock as well to avoid getting any darker and I can burn too.
I get to Atacama on wed 3rd, staying at San Pedro for the first two nights.
See you there. Where are you all staying those first nights?
Take care x
Posted On: 26 Feb 2010 11:37 pm
Oh my word im going to burn out there... Hi Marilena i have had some sunbeds to help but to no avail... we travel out on Monday so if you are around we will see you there...
26 February 2010 07:23 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Tuesday 23Feb10 - Mozzie attack
Better, brighter day today, but still a few showers, heavy at times and all the rain of late has succeeded in providing excellent hatching conditions for litterally millions of mosquitos. Today's run had hardly started when I had to dash into a friends house and use copious quantities of her can of "Off". Its good stuff though and the mozzies do not like it one bit, so for the rest of today's run they left me alone.
I ran with my friend Madelon who is training for a marathon and we did all sorts of mini circuits, fast, slow, long, short, fishing with a lovely jog along the beach. About 18km in all. Enough!! I'm getting darker by the minute......
Better, brighter day today, but still a few showers, heavy at times and all the rain of late has succeeded in providing excellent hatching conditions for litterally millions of mosquitos. Today's run had hardly started when I had to dash into a friends house and use copious quantities of her can of "Off". Its good stuff though and the mozzies do not like it one bit, so for the rest of today's run they left me alone.
I ran with my friend Madelon who is training for a marathon and we did all sorts of mini circuits, fast, slow, long, short, fishing with a lovely jog along the beach. About 18km in all. Enough!! I'm getting darker by the minute......
Comments: Total (0) comments
23 February 2010 05:35 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Monday 22Feb10 - A wet day in Punta
Yesterday I decided to take a day off, mainly due to the inclement weather which even saw Alan give up his golf after 4 holes! Instead we went to some friends' house along the coast for an asado (bbq) where, as usual, I ate too much. But as I keep telling myself: you've got to eat!
Today was again good weather to stay at home with an interesting book. Needs must, however, so I set off in the light rain, aiming to do about 20km along the roads. No back-pack though - I wore a less than pristine sports bra on my last run on Saturday and suffered some really painful abrasions along the strap marks down my back. Generous application of the marvellous Dr Selby cream (available only in Uruguay - they should export and make a fortune) and my back is much better, but I decided to give it a break today and leave my back-pack at home.
I maintained a steady pace on the run, and once I got myself warmed up (ie after about 5km) I really enjoyed it, although strangely found it more difficult along the roads than along the beach/dunes. Ran for a while with a Brazilian chap who was also out jogging in the rain. I asked him how far he was running and he said 15-20 minutes, but after 10 he "dropped out". Also ran into Alan on his bike in the rain on his way to the port to buy our fish for tonights dinner, and we coincidentally arrived back at the flat at the same time, both looking like drowned rats! My distance today was just over 20km, and will plan to do about the same tomorrow, Tuesday, but along the beach, teasing the waves a la Dean Karnazes.
Hope everyone is well.
Love
Marilena
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 27 Feb 2010 12:52 pm
Hi Maya, I don't know about the discipline.... I try. The hard thing is training alone. All my running friends think I'm crazy and they wouldn't go any long distance with me, that's why I talk to anybody I find on my way.
This week I will do between 10 and 15 km a day, gentle run/jog/walk, then after next tuesday just walk.
Looking forward to meeting you in Atacama x
Posted On: 23 Feb 2010 04:33 pm
The weather sounds so relaxing ^^) You sound like a good runner. I'm trying to get around to doing just some 3 mile walks this week, but one thing or another haven't gotten around to them. You're so disciplined!
20 February 2010 05:35 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Last night we had a very strong storm, it kept me awake most of the night.
I thought today was going to be the same, but luckily as the morning passed it turn out to be a nice sunny day. A bit too hot and humid for running actually, but nevertheless I set out on my normal run, uphil, sand and dunes.
I managed a steady 12km run uphill, off-road, then turned right down the road to the beach.
I run another 3km along the beach before I decided to turn back and head for home.
The next 15km I ran/walked on loose heavy sand and dunes, magnificent views.
People kept looking and wondering what is this woman doing, running through the hottest part of the day. Some asked me, so I had to stop and tell them about my little race that I'm just about to do.
I'm sure they thought I am crazy, but anyway, that gave them something to talk about.
I hope you are all well. Take care.
Love,
Marilena
I thought today was going to be the same, but luckily as the morning passed it turn out to be a nice sunny day. A bit too hot and humid for running actually, but nevertheless I set out on my normal run, uphil, sand and dunes.
I managed a steady 12km run uphill, off-road, then turned right down the road to the beach.
I run another 3km along the beach before I decided to turn back and head for home.
The next 15km I ran/walked on loose heavy sand and dunes, magnificent views.
People kept looking and wondering what is this woman doing, running through the hottest part of the day. Some asked me, so I had to stop and tell them about my little race that I'm just about to do.
I'm sure they thought I am crazy, but anyway, that gave them something to talk about.
I hope you are all well. Take care.
Love,
Marilena
Comments: Total (0) comments
18 February 2010 06:29 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Well, I must say, after sorting out my old injury, and taking it easy for a few days, everything was going smoothly.
Until during a 36km run/walk along the beach and dunes, that I enjoyed very much despite the heat and humidity. I saw two street boys picking some small fruits from a tree, then, me talking to everybody I find on my way, had to ask them if they were edible. One of the boys said sure and put one in his mouth, and I don't know what I was thinking about, maybe the heat, I asked if I can have one, sure enough I got one and ate it straight away, it was very tasty.
The next morning I felt a bit strange, had breakfast as usual, but only went for a 10km run with my backpack on. When I came back I was exausted, shivering, my tummy sore as if I had fire inside and had a temperature. I caught a bacteria from the dirty fruit, but luckily the simptoms only lasted 48hrs.
So now I'm feeling much better, but still have to be careful with what I eat. Despite all this, I went out again today for a 21.5km along sand and dunes, glad to say that I felt better as the kms went by.
I think I will do two more longish runs this week, before I start to taper.
I hope you are all keeping well. Take care.
Love,
Marilena
Until during a 36km run/walk along the beach and dunes, that I enjoyed very much despite the heat and humidity. I saw two street boys picking some small fruits from a tree, then, me talking to everybody I find on my way, had to ask them if they were edible. One of the boys said sure and put one in his mouth, and I don't know what I was thinking about, maybe the heat, I asked if I can have one, sure enough I got one and ate it straight away, it was very tasty.
The next morning I felt a bit strange, had breakfast as usual, but only went for a 10km run with my backpack on. When I came back I was exausted, shivering, my tummy sore as if I had fire inside and had a temperature. I caught a bacteria from the dirty fruit, but luckily the simptoms only lasted 48hrs.
So now I'm feeling much better, but still have to be careful with what I eat. Despite all this, I went out again today for a 21.5km along sand and dunes, glad to say that I felt better as the kms went by.
I think I will do two more longish runs this week, before I start to taper.
I hope you are all keeping well. Take care.
Love,
Marilena
Comments: Total (1) comments
Posted On: 20 Feb 2010 07:15 pm
Hola chica, que dios te bendiga y te de mucha fuerza para que puedas culminar exitosamente el maraton.
Un beso y te quiero mucho
romulo segnini salas
13 February 2010 12:34 pm (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Hi there,
I have to say, it has been soooooo hot and humid here in Punta del Este. Beautiful weather to be doing nothing but swimming and sunbathing instead of running like a crazy goat up and down the dunes.
Today I ran/ walk fast 24km with my 10kg backpack, along the heavy-loose sand of playa mansa in Punta. The weather was I would say hotter than Atacama and very humid. So I hope the temperatures in Atacama won't be an issue for me, one less thing to tackle.
All the lifeguards along the beach know me by now, and help me with encouraging words or refilling my bottles of water or even feeding me, great guys, I would love to have them doing the same thing during our crossing!!.
Take care you all. Three weeks to go......
Lots of love
Marilenax
I have to say, it has been soooooo hot and humid here in Punta del Este. Beautiful weather to be doing nothing but swimming and sunbathing instead of running like a crazy goat up and down the dunes.
Today I ran/ walk fast 24km with my 10kg backpack, along the heavy-loose sand of playa mansa in Punta. The weather was I would say hotter than Atacama and very humid. So I hope the temperatures in Atacama won't be an issue for me, one less thing to tackle.
All the lifeguards along the beach know me by now, and help me with encouraging words or refilling my bottles of water or even feeding me, great guys, I would love to have them doing the same thing during our crossing!!.
Take care you all. Three weeks to go......
Lots of love
Marilenax
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 19 Feb 2010 01:56 am
Hi chamilla!, gracias por visitar mi blog. No se te olvide escribirme mientras estoy en la carrera. Besos x
Posted On: 17 Feb 2010 11:40 am
chayo chayo Mari! looks freezing on the profile picture in contrast to Pta. besos a
09 February 2010 07:54 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Hi again,
I hope you are all feeling good and as exciting and nervous as me.
Yesterday I ran/walked 33km, on loose sand, dunes and rocks, it was so hot, but I kept telling myself Atacama will be just the same. I was tired but happy to have done it, and with my backpack on weighing 8kg.
Today didn´t do very much, 12km on sand again, with a little more weigh on.
I´m glad to say I have no pains, just a little tired, but sleeping well at night.
Take care you all,
Love,
Marilena
I hope you are all feeling good and as exciting and nervous as me.
Yesterday I ran/walked 33km, on loose sand, dunes and rocks, it was so hot, but I kept telling myself Atacama will be just the same. I was tired but happy to have done it, and with my backpack on weighing 8kg.
Today didn´t do very much, 12km on sand again, with a little more weigh on.
I´m glad to say I have no pains, just a little tired, but sleeping well at night.
Take care you all,
Love,
Marilena
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 11 Feb 2010 01:54 pm
Thanks Eric. I am very excited too. Can't wait, but nevertheless a little scared.
It will be fine as soon as I get there. Take care xx
Posted On: 10 Feb 2010 05:09 am
Marilena,
I am super excited, it is going to be an awesome experience.
Good to hear your injury wasn't that bad. I have had a few ankle probs but looks like it will be ok for Atacama. I think for tapering you want to do it about 2-3 weeks before the race. My training will be peaking this week and next and then cutting down for the 2 weeks before the race so I can come in fresh.
07 February 2010 01:16 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Hi Atacama friends
Four weeks today exactly, we will all be there talking about how our first day went.
Hopefully we will be laughing and getting ready for the next stage.
My training was going really well, until two weeks ago, that I felt an old injury at the top of my left hamstring. I went to the doctor just in case and he send me to have some phisio. It is getting better again, but I can feel it there in the back ground. I try not to think about it.
So, at the moment is just running/walking and keeping fit. Tomorrow will try to do 30 or 40km or just out and about on my feet for 5 or 6 hours with my backpack on.
Hope everything is going well with you all. Take care.
Love,
Marilena
Four weeks today exactly, we will all be there talking about how our first day went.
Hopefully we will be laughing and getting ready for the next stage.
My training was going really well, until two weeks ago, that I felt an old injury at the top of my left hamstring. I went to the doctor just in case and he send me to have some phisio. It is getting better again, but I can feel it there in the back ground. I try not to think about it.
So, at the moment is just running/walking and keeping fit. Tomorrow will try to do 30 or 40km or just out and about on my feet for 5 or 6 hours with my backpack on.
Hope everything is going well with you all. Take care.
Love,
Marilena
Comments: Total (0) comments
07 January 2010 04:31 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Happy New Year to you all.
I hope you've had a lovely Christmas and lots of nice presents.
December was a very hectic month for me, and I'm sure it was for most of you too.
Now after all the dinner parties and over endulging in all the good things (or bad perhaps), I can say I'm trying to get back to my training.
It hasn't been easy with the weather we've been having in the UK at the moment, but I must say I have enjoyed running in the snow. I leave my house with a backpack containing all the necessary things for this kind of weather and just go for a couple of hours. It has been a new experience for me running in the snow, so beautiful and relaxing. I take my camera and just try to capture all the beautiful things around me.
I can tell you I'm having fun while training. Next week will be a different story, because I will be in Miami, apparently the temperatures there are around 5 to 10 degrees centigrades, hopefully will be warmer by the time I get there.
Take care you all, and keep up with your training. Will write again next week .
Marilena xx
I hope you've had a lovely Christmas and lots of nice presents.
December was a very hectic month for me, and I'm sure it was for most of you too.
Now after all the dinner parties and over endulging in all the good things (or bad perhaps), I can say I'm trying to get back to my training.
It hasn't been easy with the weather we've been having in the UK at the moment, but I must say I have enjoyed running in the snow. I leave my house with a backpack containing all the necessary things for this kind of weather and just go for a couple of hours. It has been a new experience for me running in the snow, so beautiful and relaxing. I take my camera and just try to capture all the beautiful things around me.
I can tell you I'm having fun while training. Next week will be a different story, because I will be in Miami, apparently the temperatures there are around 5 to 10 degrees centigrades, hopefully will be warmer by the time I get there.
Take care you all, and keep up with your training. Will write again next week .
Marilena xx
Comments: Total (0) comments
08 December 2009 03:02 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
It's been a long time since I wrote on my blog and many things have happen since.
I went to Hong Kong where I spent five great weeks. It was lovely meeting Eric and the racingtheplanet crew. Many thanks for all your help and advice.
I was so lucky to have given the chance to participate in the Oxfam trailwalker, thanks Sam and Eric for this.
While in HK I run up and down my lovely mountains, I say lovely because I love them, I lived in HK for 11 years and I know them like my back yard.
Spent a week between Cambodia and Singapore, where I met Melanie Wee. Great to have met you Mel. See you very soon.
As I said before, I run the trailwalker. Lucky to have mentioned to Sam: it would be nice to do it again.
That was it, they found me a team that was in need of another crazy person. A great team indeed, Luke and Ludvig have done the Gobi desert this year and Anthony who works for racing the planet and me of course. We run/ walk the whole 100km in 23hr49min.
An amazing race and the best part of it we didn't know each other before and got so well together as if we were friends for ever. Thanks guys I enjoyed very much been part of your team. Next year under 22hrs.
Well, now I'm back to cold, rainy london and to make things worse I caught a horrible cold/flu, so no training for a few days.
I hope you are all well and getting ready for the Christmas holidays.
Love to all,
Marilena
I went to Hong Kong where I spent five great weeks. It was lovely meeting Eric and the racingtheplanet crew. Many thanks for all your help and advice.
I was so lucky to have given the chance to participate in the Oxfam trailwalker, thanks Sam and Eric for this.
While in HK I run up and down my lovely mountains, I say lovely because I love them, I lived in HK for 11 years and I know them like my back yard.
Spent a week between Cambodia and Singapore, where I met Melanie Wee. Great to have met you Mel. See you very soon.
As I said before, I run the trailwalker. Lucky to have mentioned to Sam: it would be nice to do it again.
That was it, they found me a team that was in need of another crazy person. A great team indeed, Luke and Ludvig have done the Gobi desert this year and Anthony who works for racing the planet and me of course. We run/ walk the whole 100km in 23hr49min.
An amazing race and the best part of it we didn't know each other before and got so well together as if we were friends for ever. Thanks guys I enjoyed very much been part of your team. Next year under 22hrs.
Well, now I'm back to cold, rainy london and to make things worse I caught a horrible cold/flu, so no training for a few days.
I hope you are all well and getting ready for the Christmas holidays.
Love to all,
Marilena
Comments: Total (0) comments
11 October 2009 02:23 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Hi there, I hope all your training is going well.
I must say, after a few weeks of ups and downs, I think I'm back on the right track.
Last sunday I ran 18k and there was a feeling of lightness, I don't know why, but I didn't feel my legs, as if I was floating, amazing. That made me realize that I was getting much better mentally and physical.
Last week training:
Sun. 18km
Mon. 21k on bike + strength training
Tue. 11,5k run ondulating
Wed. Rest
Thu. 20k run
Fri. 25,5k bike + strength training
Sat. 32,5k run
Today I will rest and do whatever I can not do during the week.
Take care you all and keep training.
Lots of love,
Marilena xx
I must say, after a few weeks of ups and downs, I think I'm back on the right track.
Last sunday I ran 18k and there was a feeling of lightness, I don't know why, but I didn't feel my legs, as if I was floating, amazing. That made me realize that I was getting much better mentally and physical.
Last week training:
Sun. 18km
Mon. 21k on bike + strength training
Tue. 11,5k run ondulating
Wed. Rest
Thu. 20k run
Fri. 25,5k bike + strength training
Sat. 32,5k run
Today I will rest and do whatever I can not do during the week.
Take care you all and keep training.
Lots of love,
Marilena xx
Comments: Total (3) comments
Posted On: 30 Nov 2009 01:31 pm
Hi Marilena, sorry I wasn't able to meet up with you and David for lunch at the FCC on Friday! I look forward to seeing you in Chile if not before. All the best, Chris
Posted On: 21 Oct 2009 02:29 am
Great work with the training, Marilena! Defo looking forward to meeting you in Singapore! And you've got mail. Take care and talk to you soon. Regards, Mel
Posted On: 19 Oct 2009 05:58 pm
Hi Marilena: Thanks for the post! I so look forward to meeting you. Your training sounds much more arduous than mine - I gues I have to ramp up my training to keep up!
Best, Clancy
12 September 2009 01:50 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
After 8 or 9 days of doing nothing but looking after my horrible cold, and eating the wrong things, now I can say, Thankgoodness I feel better again.
This week I started training again, slowly but on the right track.
Monday 4km gentle hill.
Tuesday am, 1 hr. of balance and stretching class.
Tuesday pm training, hills repeat plus 8k trail run
Wednesday 15km bike ride plus gym strength training
Thursday 12.5km trail run.
Friday 1hr speed training, plus 1hr balance and stretching class.
Saturday 21km mainly uphill run, hard work, but necessary.
Tomorrow Sunday...... great, my day of rest!!!
I'm still a long way from my total fitness level, but hopefully I will be better in a few weeks.
I'll be back with more in a day or so. Take care you lot and keep training.
Marilena xx
This week I started training again, slowly but on the right track.
Monday 4km gentle hill.
Tuesday am, 1 hr. of balance and stretching class.
Tuesday pm training, hills repeat plus 8k trail run
Wednesday 15km bike ride plus gym strength training
Thursday 12.5km trail run.
Friday 1hr speed training, plus 1hr balance and stretching class.
Saturday 21km mainly uphill run, hard work, but necessary.
Tomorrow Sunday...... great, my day of rest!!!
I'm still a long way from my total fitness level, but hopefully I will be better in a few weeks.
I'll be back with more in a day or so. Take care you lot and keep training.
Marilena xx
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 21 Sep 2009 02:19 pm
Hi Janelle,
Nice to hear from you. It would be nice to have a friend to run it with, but none of my friends or relatives would do it, they all think I'm crazy. But never mind, they don't know what they are missing...
Get well and keep training, I'm trying.
See you soon. x
Posted On: 18 Sep 2009 06:12 pm
Marilena, saw your comment on my blog. I too will be running this race alone, and I couldn't think of anyone I know that would actually entertain the notion of running it with me, so I think you and I are on the same page. I hope your training is going well, keep it up, and I'll see you in March!
07 September 2009 04:57 am (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Well, here I am. Finally decided to open up and share with you my emotions about crossing Atacama.
For a couple of years I wanted to do it, but one thing or another stopped me from doing it.
This year I said to myself if you don't sign up and pay, you will never do it, so, here I am, already done that and at the same time thinking what have I done?, in what mess have I got into this time??.
For a few weeks it was hell at home, my husband Alan shouting at me, telling me how crazy I was, my daughter Cristina saying similar things, but not so bad. My other two children Rob and Ale, were more understanding, saying if she wants to do it, let her do it.
Now I must say things are a bit better, they have all accepted it and I think deep down are proud of me . That doesn't change the fact that they all think I'm crazy.
My training started, buy not as good as I wanted it. An old injury came back, so I had to take it easy for a while, and for the last week I've had a horrible cold.
Now there are no excuses, slowly I will be back on the right track.
Well I think is about time I went to bed. Will be back soon with more to tell.
Chao, keep training. xx
For a couple of years I wanted to do it, but one thing or another stopped me from doing it.
This year I said to myself if you don't sign up and pay, you will never do it, so, here I am, already done that and at the same time thinking what have I done?, in what mess have I got into this time??.
For a few weeks it was hell at home, my husband Alan shouting at me, telling me how crazy I was, my daughter Cristina saying similar things, but not so bad. My other two children Rob and Ale, were more understanding, saying if she wants to do it, let her do it.
Now I must say things are a bit better, they have all accepted it and I think deep down are proud of me . That doesn't change the fact that they all think I'm crazy.
My training started, buy not as good as I wanted it. An old injury came back, so I had to take it easy for a while, and for the last week I've had a horrible cold.
Now there are no excuses, slowly I will be back on the right track.
Well I think is about time I went to bed. Will be back soon with more to tell.
Chao, keep training. xx
Comments: Total (1) comments
Posted On: 12 Sep 2009 12:43 pm
Here you are and nice one!
Comments: Total (3) comments
Posted On: 21 Mar 2010 10:31 pm
Posted On: 21 Mar 2010 05:02 am
Posted On: 17 Mar 2010 11:03 pm
-Hoping to do Nepal next year and see you there!