Training going well

I’ve steadily ramped up my training since I heard that I had a place on the GNR.
I started by increasing the frequency to four times a week from one. I wasn’t running that much further than the 3-5 miles that I had been used to. I then focused on increasing the distance that I run. I’ve a circular 3 mile route from my front door which includes quite a steep hill. Over the past couple of weeks I’ve increased this from one lap to two and then last night to three. I’m confident now that I will be able to do the distance.
One of the biggest things I’ve learnt this year is the importance of hydration. I drink 250ml half an hour before a run and 125ml just before. At every mile I take a sip from a bottle I carry of Lucozade Sport Hydro Active Hypotonic drink mix. Not really a Plug for the sponsors, it really seems to work for me. I still have trouble drinking and running at the same time though. I don't think I'm the only one. I’ve run a few half marathons before. At nine miles I’m usually wasted and rely on mental toughness to get me through. This timwe with a better training program, the proper diet and the taking of drinks before and throughout the run seem to make it just that much easier than it has ever been before.
Over the remaining three weeks I need to do a couple of the longer 9 mile runs. If I feel up to it I might do 12 miles or even 15. I will also carry on with the fast interval work trying to improve my speed and to improve my stamina so that I don’t fade badly towards the end of the race.