Inside my box – SUMS 2011
Well, look what arrived the other day!
It’s not really that exciting is it? Well, it doesn’t really matter what it is or what’s inside the box. Not that I don’t care. I do. A lot. It’s the trophy for finishing 3rd in this year’s Scottish Ultra Marathon Series.
Whilst I was well-beaten to 1st and 2nd, I guess it is an achievement considering the strength, experience and talent of the other competitors. I dare say I probably had a bit of luck along the way, although I have worked hard for it, completing 6 races and running as hard as I could in each one. More than acceptable in Season 1.
It’s just that the way I was presented it, was much more important to me than the accolade itself. There was no presentation, no clapping and no champagne.
It was given to me by the most important man that’s ever been in my life. My Dad. And, he shook my hand and said “Well done Son.” Does it really get any better than that? For me, no, I don’t think it does. I’ve had such incredible support from my Dad (and the rest of my family) all my life and trying not to let them down is something that courses through me, and always will. I guess the ‘white box’ was an opportunity for him to let me know that I’m doing ok – making every stride of each race (occasionally in the wrong direction), every 4.30am training run, every sickly energy gel, bout of cramp and lost toenail more than worthwhile. I’d do it all over again (except quicker!) for another one of those.
So, thank you SUMS – it was an awesome 2011.
2012????
Let’s just wait and see 🙂
Pyllon - ultra runner 
Hard to believe this was your first season in ultra running Paul , what you achieved was was incredible, with a few more years experience and training I’ve no doubt you will be in pole position on the podium more often than not, well done you work hard and you deserve the success .
Davie
October 25, 2011 at 8:40 am
Cheers Davie – that means a lot!!
October 26, 2011 at 7:33 am
What an amazing 1st ultra season you’ve had! You’ve done spectacularly – I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you 🙂
October 25, 2011 at 1:48 pm
Thanks a lot Rhona. Will see you in Duthie Park, March!!! 😉
October 26, 2011 at 7:32 am
Paul, third in your first season is AWESOME! not just ok, or acceptable but AWESOME. But i get the feeling you’ll be wanting to turn that into First next time. And i’ve no doubt that you will give everything you can to get there.
It’s funny, i don’t think my parents have ever told me they’re proud of what i’ve done. Don’t get me wrong, I know they are though. But sometimes you just need to hear it to confirm it.
Well done. Amazing, third out of hundreds is amazing.
Ange x
October 25, 2011 at 6:58 pm
Thanks Angela. You’ve been very supportive over this last year (although I do worry that you think I’m more than a little……strange!)
Thank you so much x
October 26, 2011 at 7:34 am
Well done Paul …. I think we need a picture of you, your Dad and your trophy!!
October 25, 2011 at 7:30 pm
Thanks John – think my Mum has that covered!
October 26, 2011 at 7:35 am
Very happy for you Paul. Picture of you, dad and trophy to follow,courtesy of me. Well done again. Enjoyed supporting you and looking forward to next year. Mum.xx
October 25, 2011 at 9:28 pm
Well done and keep the box polished.
October 25, 2011 at 10:02 pm
outstanding Paul, keep plugging away. You know what lies ahead……….
October 26, 2011 at 7:18 am
Well done, Paul. And well done to your lovely family too. You’ve certainly shaken up the boys a little 🙂
October 26, 2011 at 9:27 am
Thank you so much Debbie. Really appreciate that.
Hope you , Marco and family are well 🙂
October 27, 2011 at 7:57 am
Well done Paul – you’ve had a brilliant year. Now you can concentrate on re-growing your toenails before next Spring.
October 26, 2011 at 9:58 pm