Year End Review

So it’s been a year.  Crazy to think, it seems like just yesterday I returned to the Upper Valley eager to meet the new team and new coach.  A brand new training program, slowly developing out of infancy, stretching out it’s arms in wonderment and discovery.  All of that is now behind us.  Those timid steps of toddlerhood seem as a distant past.  The ups and downs, leveled.  The first year, the year of learning, is over.  There has been some mistakes, some progress, and a new understanding.  When I sat down in a recent year end review, there were many things to point towards as success: making the World Cross-Country team, running an Olympic “B” standard in the 5km, a national title, and many podium finishes on the roads.  These are all good things, and Tim and I must note where things did go right.  However, and yes there is always a however, I did not meet my goals for the year.  I did not run the Olympic “A” standard in either the 5km or 10km and I did not qualify for the World Championships in Daegu.  So how do I remedy this?  I must build upon the positives, remember what worked in training, and note what can be improved upon.  The year end review is the perfect time to really scrutinize and examine all aspects of the year.  From the quality of recover and sleep, to diet, overall well-being, and finally the day in and day out of training.  All must be accounted for, and all must be assessed for flaws.  It is a time of reflection and then action.  Once a flaw is unveiled, action must take place for change to allow yourself the best chance of success.  So while year one may have come to an end, year two has already begun.  The Olympic Trials are only ten months away, so it is time to get to work.

Until next time,

Ben