It has been a busy month with training, injuries and new additions to the house. I started the month training in Wallingford with the group of women they are trialling for the European championships. We were doing long 20+km outings, paddling with the senior women's eight. Hence some very competitive paddling! We did a good 2km speed order test at Dorney two weeks ago, which both the athletes and coaches were pleased with. I then came unstuck, and had some problems with my neck which kept me out of the boat for ten days. I managed to see Mike Chisholm, a genius physio, who sorted me out very quickly. Funnily enough the problem is never where it appears...my neck was merely highlighting some imbalances in my pelvis and spine which when sorted out, allowed my neck to support my head happily again!
I also have some very exciting news, in that we have got a kitten in the house! Everybody, meet Simba...
He is almost eight weeks old, and the most affectionate, inquisitive and playful cat I have ever known! He is called Simba, but has also been nicknamed Battlecat which I think he has taken to heart a bit too much. He is under the assumption that he rules the house and loves to run up our jeans to say hello, a habit which we are trying to break him of!
Rowing wise, I've got the Metropolitan Regatta at Dorney Lake next weekend. This is always a top class event, and I am looking forward to racing an eight on the Saturday and the Sunday, and a four on the Saturday. Having been ill for final trials last month it feels like it is so long since I raced properly, so I am raring to go!
Rhiannon Jones, one of my housemates deserves a mention as she is racing in Munich at the World Cup this weekend, coxing the B crew of the adaptive four. They have the final tomorrow night, subject to any changes, so huge GOOD LUCK wishes to them!
