Starting again.

Well, here I am, starting again. Back to the drawing board, back to stage 1, back to basics and basically just trying to make headway.
Last week I had a horrendous day in Marrakech. I was supposed to do a marathon, however it looks like I suffered heat stroke and was only able to complete 15 miles before going in at the half marathon finish.
So, they gave me a medal and an official finishing time instead of a DNF for the marathon, which I'm pleased about.... just.
So, my training program starts tomorrow for VLM. I'm looking forward to starting again.
You see, I have this crazy idea.... since beginning running I have always wanted to do an ultra. In fact, before I'd even ran as far as 8 miles I've had my eye on a particularly difficult ultra race. I know I can do it too.... if bloodymindedness and sheer determination has anything to do with it anyway!
Having only done 2 marathons and finding them both bloody hard, I have adjusted my training and mileage accordingly.
And what did I learn from Marrakech? DRINK water in plentiful amounts for a few days before the race, so when they run out of it until 9 miles you will not be so dehydrated. DON'T sunbathe the day before a race without suncream and end up wondering why the top of your heads feels tender to the touch. HAT.... for Gods sake wear a hat while running in the sun.
There we go... 3 immediate concerns!!!
So, I learnt a lot during Marrakech. Sometimes despite everything you read about what to and what not to do, you have to learn the hard way!