Hello, folks. Evening Press here.

I've become a bit of a pasta freak this week. I've tried spaghetti, fusilli, penne, tagliatelle, linguini and those funny shell-shaped ones.

In all, I've eaten about ten bowls of pasta in about three days. What's more, I haven't bothered with sauce to go with it, rather I've just eaten it with mushed banana.

Why? Well, I need to boost my energy levels ahead of my race tomorrow, which will be the longest I've run in my career.

I've been told that the carbohydrates in pasta increase your energy and that bananas do the same. Granted, pasta and mushed banana isn't going to win any cookery awards, but I must say I do feel more energetic.

The only down side is I haven't been able to sleep very well.

Anyway, the race. After just missing out at Musselburgh on Monday because of a big entry, I've been guaranteed a place in the 2.40 at Catterick tomorrow.

It's a three-year-old seller over one mile, five furlongs and 175 yards, and, like I said, it's the furthest I've ever run.

Tim, my trainer, thinks the extra distance might just be what I need to be able to compete better, and with the going being good to firm, firm in places, it bodes well as I like faster ground.

Anyway, best go. I don't want to overcook my pan of vermicelli. Talking of vermicelli, did you know that it actually means "little worms" in English? Yuk.

Regards,

Evening Press.

Updated: 12:15 Friday, September 20, 2002