The Athlete of the month, for the month December is.... Ali Memar
By far, one of the toughest months to choose this month with so many amazing team runs and PBs at Valencia marathon as well as recent RunThrough races in and around London.
However, Ali’s stand out performance at Valencia marathon took the win!
Prior to the race we discussed a goal time of 4h and 30m and how he should pace the race. This goal time got smashed! Finishing way under target time in an impressive 4h and 7m which was 23 minutes under target time. Yes, 23 minutes!
It was not the smoothest build up to Valencia marathon for Ali. During the crucial phase of training (3 – 6 weeks) prior to the race his niggles seemed to ramp up, with his knee giving him increased issues, especially on the longer runs. This meant that a lot of his long runs had to be replicated on the elliptical. And that he did!
Taking no short cuts, not making any excuses, finding a way and getting rewarded for it!
It’s safe to say the racing bug has bitten Ali and he has been spending a lot of his December plotting which races to target for the rest of the year.
One of the happiest runners I know! Long may that continue!
Well done Ali! Thoroughly deserved and as your coach I am very proud of you!
Onwards and Upwards!
Who will be the athlete of the month for January?
