The summer has flown by and now its all eyes on the Chicago Marathon on October 10th – I can’t wait.

The three half marathons I ran over the summer, (Robin Hood, Bristol and Great North Run) were fantastic learning experiences as not everything went to plan, and I think I’m stronger mentally now I know that certain things will always be out of my control and that all I need to do is just concentrate on myself.

That said, all three races were brilliant. All were so well supported and if I had to pick a standout moment I would say the BBC coverage of the Great North Run was awesome! And special thanks goes to the man who helped me to the St John’s Ambulance station on mile six of the run.

The prospect of running in Chicago is without doubt the focus now and I feel in great shape. I have been training in Poole with my coach, Liz Yelling, and have developed a more relaxed pace for the race. I’ve given myself the best preparation possible and just want to get on the course and go for it!

Finally, I also received some great news recently…I have qualified for the 200m at the World Championships in Auckland in January 2011. Another date in the diary to look forward to!