The past couple of months have been train, work, train, sleep… repeat. That might sound tedious to some, but I’ve been loving it.

A muscular injury slowed my preparations and threatened my ability to compete at the upcoming Nagoya Marathon. Some intensive and knowledgeable treatment along with cycling sessions helped to aid my recovery and maintain my fitness as well as my sanity! Although, I hope I don’t have to trade my laces for wheels again until after my big race.

Back on track, I was able to successfully test myself at the 15K BRRC race in Brisbane yesterday. I was surprised running a PB winning time, which was a real confidence boost. The race was a great opportunity to trial my new racing shoes, the On CloudRacers. I enjoyed every moment at the BRRC event which was organised to perfection with such a friendly and encouraging atmosphere.

I’m now less than 3 weeks away from my second big target, the Women’s Nagoya Marathon in Japan, where I hope to run a PB and go sub 2 hours 40 min. The course at Nagoya is flat and fast, and attracts an elite field of female marathoners from all over the world.

Still a novice at the marathon, there’s a lot for me to learn, so I’m really excited to test out everything that I’ve worked at with my coach. I will be using Shotz electrolytes and gels to keep me going, and I’ll be wearing my On CloudRacers, which I have no doubt will “fly me to the finish”.Thankfully Tom’s cycling schedule has allowed him to join me in Japan, and he’ll be tweeting updates on the marathon so get on Twitter and follow me @MelPanayiotou.