LAST week I quoted Emil Zátopek in my column – which I thought fitting as the Czech ‘human locomotive’ helped plan the race I will be running.

That was back in 1994 and he died six years later in Prague.

I found Zátopek’s story intriguing and was delighted on Tuesday to be handed a copy of his biography to get stuck into. So thanks, Tony McCarthy!

Bob Phillips has penned the book on a man he calls ‘the world’s greatest distance runner’ – a man who won Olympic gold in 5k, 10k and marathon at Helsinki in 1952.

That was the first time he had competed in a marathon and according to a foreword from Roberto Quercetani, Zátopek turned to his rivals while sharing the lead and said: “I know virtually nothing about marathon running, but do you think we ought to go a little faster?”

I’m not suggesting I’m going to Prague to win the marathon, but that did fascinate me.

It also fascinated me that my colleague, and St Helens Star sports editor Mike Critchley, used to run continuous laps of his block as a kid in a bid to emulate Zátopek – keep running, Mike.

As far as my training is going, I did what will probably be my longest run on Thursday morning when I made the most of my day off to get a sunny 21 miles in.

It felt pretty good, and although on a fairly hilly route I was pleased to be joined by a friend for 13 of those miles.

While the run itself was a great confidence booster, my friend did put some doubt in my head by suggesting he was going to be purchasing some new shoes for Prague.

I’m toying with the idea but know if I do, then it needs to be a quick purchase.

As John Walsh told me: “Don’t forget always introduce new trainers well before race day, as new runners can often take a while to bed in. The last thing you need on race day is the pain and discomfort caused by new blisters that could be avoided.”

Meanwhile, it’s great to be able to train in the light and on Tuesday I was over with a group at Birchwood Forest Park for some quality training – my favourite sessions.

I’m still fundraising for St Rocco’s Hospice, our Charity of the Year here at the Warrington Guardian, and an undoubtedly worthy cause.

One I’m sure many readers will have been touched by in some way.

To donate, visit personalchallenge.everydayhero.com/uk/alex-bysouth