tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38213922295927692452024-02-07T08:30:12.114+00:00Petite Feet RunawayRunning an ultra distance from homeAntoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-60470684572815623582021-10-26T22:56:00.002+01:002021-10-26T23:01:59.639+01:00Trail Outlaws Devil's Foot Half Marathon<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> Low key. Local. Not too much time away from the kids. Can enter last minute. I'm in. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I wanted a distance that I knew I'd be able to complete without the pressure of having to train. I have enough time away from the kids with work and I really enjoy whatever miles I can do at the moment, I don't need something else on my plate. BUT, I also wanted my legs to hurt afterwards because that's a glorious feeling. It didn't occur to me until I was running on the day that I hadn't actually run more than 15km in two years. See my last post on the Three Landers Marathon.... that was my last run over 15km! Six months after having my son I'd run two marathons. Six months after having my daughter, I've done considerably less.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Anyway. The event was in two waves because some guy ate a bat in China back in 2019 and people couldn't handle eating the horrible British Christmas dinner without being surrounded by all their family back in 2020. Why eat overcooked brussels sprouts alone when you could also inflict the pain on others? The two waves was probably a great thing because the start is quite narrow. A narrow muddy incline. I quite liked it. Turns out I haven't had many opportunities to run offroad in the last few years so I was like a kid in a candy store; hyper and gassy. It was hard to know what to do; run like the clappers because it was only a half marathon or take it easy because there's a big hill and you're not that fit?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We were warned that there were some cows en route. This is a downside to the sticks; animals that need to live on the grass. I didn't cling to the lady in front of me but I certainly sped up so I could stay close. At least then the cows could make a decision as to who they wanted to ram. I wasn't sure if smelling of breastmilk would make them soften towards me or rage towards me. Fortunately, they kept to themselves while we kept to the fence line. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I think the route follows the Southern Upland Way. I've run between Lauder and Melrose before so had some familiarity. By that, I mean I remember it was grassy with sheep. Some people are doing this half marathon as part of the Trail Outlaws series and I get chatting to a couple who are starting to fatigue. I think the events are reasonably close in succession so it's getting near the end of the season for them. People have come from further than I expected. These days I get excited about driving an hour to the beach. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I've got some blisters. Unpleasant.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7BCsTR7f33rgfEFCc5S9nJyTLZOhXsCsIQJf95uZu_tw3WkA4L6-U6oAcR2cuUgrThyphenhyphencaEUmE9keUlveLOgL_rVc_kpvgIhtSIOC8Kvk2nBvomO1SYhs_qDMu7aatKy5nt3Wff8r5e1bd/s2016/IMG-20211017-WA0004.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7BCsTR7f33rgfEFCc5S9nJyTLZOhXsCsIQJf95uZu_tw3WkA4L6-U6oAcR2cuUgrThyphenhyphencaEUmE9keUlveLOgL_rVc_kpvgIhtSIOC8Kvk2nBvomO1SYhs_qDMu7aatKy5nt3Wff8r5e1bd/s320/IMG-20211017-WA0004.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing the bridge into Melrose. Waving to the fans (AKA, my toddler)</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">At about nine miles we cross the bridge into Melrose. I spot Scott with the red buggy and my toddler cheering. Apparently he went away running and saying that he was 'little mummy' in a race too. So that's cute. I had to run quite fast along the river because it was a single track and I had a load of men behind me. I kept asking if they wanted past but they didn't... it was too fast for me though! At this stage I've run as far as I have in years and still have to get over one of the Eildon hills. My logic was that I would get over the hill walking regardless so it didn't matter that the hill was at the end of the half marathon. In hindsight, that was possibly shoddy logic. I've walked up the Eildons a couple of times carrying babies and the ascent never seemed too bad. I guess I was walking quite slow with a baby attached, especially when Scott was also carrying up a toddler at the same time.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I hadn't been up the trail that the event took so I wasn't sure what the climb would be like. Years ago I would have considered myself a strong climber but it turns out I just don't have the strength in the legs anymore. I also didn't test any kit before I started because a) I entered last minute, and b) I haven't run far enough to need kit. So I didn't know how to work my drink bottle which meant I hadn't bothered drinking. In my attempt at hydrating I unscrewed the lid, spilt water all over myself and had to puff snot out of my nostrils in order to gulp some water down. ''Amateur!'' I hear you all screaming. And you'd be right. I'm also now too hot but can't decide if my slow movement means I'll get cold on the top of the hill. Rainjacket on or rainjacket off? This important decision is sidetracked however because there are some hikers further up the hill that are naked. I know I've underfueled and under prepared but I must be in a bad way. My eyesight is definitely getting a but blurred and I've just had to go for a tactical mini spew.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">No, they're just in beige. How uncool but this makes more sense.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">No, I think they are actually naked.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">No, they are in those beige old man shorts. They'd look better in an olive green.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Erm, no, that's definitely butt crack I'm seeing now. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It's ok, I'm not too bothered by some bum crack. I mean they're no Kim Kardashian but not everyone loves that look anyway. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Oh great, so an old man feels the need to go full frontal on me to tell me how great it is that women are racing too. I cannot unsee that flaccid wrinkly cock swinging in my direction. His balcony was big but from my angle it wasn't big enough to cover his toy shop. I'm a sleep deprived six month post partum mother but that image is what has put me off having baby number three! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I'm assuming the naked ramblers were as surprised by our presence as we were but theirs. It would be funny if they started gatecrashing running events though. Although without the dick waving. Naked but with a sock on it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOufpIUg7MfLV2zceyMQkPRfYzbvBbS2LQ_bfouVGYP3avsQNPaLtmKbAIiML5eqgCDhqKZR0YkWOT7AJSYB3vYGYFeNkqgmpX5vetYA_c6PLR3-rr-x29CHG0YaiS-SbBydhLlliNWsC/s960/IMG-20211018-WA0000.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOufpIUg7MfLV2zceyMQkPRfYzbvBbS2LQ_bfouVGYP3avsQNPaLtmKbAIiML5eqgCDhqKZR0YkWOT7AJSYB3vYGYFeNkqgmpX5vetYA_c6PLR3-rr-x29CHG0YaiS-SbBydhLlliNWsC/w320-h213/IMG-20211018-WA0000.jpg" title="Check out the naked ramblers in the background... photo from the poor Trail Outlaws photographer!" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out the naked ramblers in the background as we climb the Eildon. Photo thanks to the poor Trail Outlaws photographer who had to see all those guys coming up full frontal. </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Some poor folk got cramp as we started the descent. Is that from the climbing? I'm like Bambi on both ice and descents and I know it. I try to open gates for folk as they come past. I'm not good at downhill running at the best of times and six months post partum is not the time to go testing out the pelvic floor strength by tearing down an Eildon! So it's a nice jog to the finish for me. My toddler tore towards me as I headed to the finish with an excited face. I love that he sees me running as a normal thing for someone to do. He's been keen to get back into the running buggy since the event too but maybe that's just because his baby sister is now old enough for it. He's getting heavy up the hills! Anyway, it was nice to give him my medal (and the smoothie I'd forgotten I was carrying with me for the duration of the race). </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">My legs weren't too bad afterwards but my blisters were large and my toe nails black. My daughter also needed feeding for the entire afternoon and while it was nice to sit in bed cuddling her, taking more from my drained body made me feel a bit sick. So definitely need to remember to eat and drink next time. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Everyone was really nice, marshals were fab and friendly. A great wee event! </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCOvPWxL1Y-lWpRsrICnkXwHiBmMG7wMCqCddI0D2v8HHh5yavrYxAnKPaZI-z0boSr4uahzHOzJ6SmPqOCuATsmUP6a7fSvu8BVX-ZFsO89pcPCIiDWJwvceZ7bPycv43basaTtw1PMX/s2016/IMG-20211017-WA0001.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCOvPWxL1Y-lWpRsrICnkXwHiBmMG7wMCqCddI0D2v8HHh5yavrYxAnKPaZI-z0boSr4uahzHOzJ6SmPqOCuATsmUP6a7fSvu8BVX-ZFsO89pcPCIiDWJwvceZ7bPycv43basaTtw1PMX/w240-h320/IMG-20211017-WA0001.jpg" title="Finish line after the Eildon descent" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Finish line at the end of the half marathon</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">For fans of Mr Antonia... Scott ran the Tunnel Run 20km on the Saturday with his classic training of a 5km one week, 10km the next week, a 15km the third week and the 20km event for week number four. And that's probably the four runs he's been on in 2021. But he has done a lot of landscaping in the evenings while I fed a baby. The paving looks fab thanks.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Better end this. Baby needs a feed and I've finished my second bag of chocolate peanuts. </span></p>Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-208368877651276352019-10-17T21:21:00.001+01:002019-10-17T21:21:06.822+01:00Sisters Run Three Lander Marathon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00WPwmMKI5TCZQT7y5XJ_9TpnbWvtazOpnnu7LFDdq7jA8LtCxtkuh8aNLlVH7CAd-aUkVa0273Vvj_37F2Cf2M5xPXgHr_bWSE6XlCGYiXzSBnk16rKTtmzNCODcuGKvYa1utxWgYGft/s1600/IMG-20191006-WA0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00WPwmMKI5TCZQT7y5XJ_9TpnbWvtazOpnnu7LFDdq7jA8LtCxtkuh8aNLlVH7CAd-aUkVa0273Vvj_37F2Cf2M5xPXgHr_bWSE6XlCGYiXzSBnk16rKTtmzNCODcuGKvYa1utxWgYGft/s400/IMG-20191006-WA0014.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sister Sister start in Lindau</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Do you think I can train for a marathon in 10 weeks? </i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Came the message from my small sister, Hillary. Of course I replied in the affirmative. What did I know, I've only ever trained for my first marathon and that was probably ten years ago. Plus, I'd always liked the idea of running her first marathon with her and I was up for another holiday. Hillary had picked the Three Lander Marathon; a marathon that started in Germany, ran through Austria, into Switzerland and then finished in Austria. That sounds pretty cool. Hillary flew from New York, we flew from the buzzing metropolis of the Scottish Borders. It was a good excuse to see each other and doesn't everyone think of Germany, Austria and Switzerland when they think of awesome exciting holidays? No? Let me remind you of those giant pretzels (bretzils?) then. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Buggies were not allowed in the marathon which meant Scott could not run. He looked disappointed to hear this news. I'm not sure how I thought running a marathon with a buggy would be achievable anyway, considering my seven month old Master tolerates being restrained in any type of contraction for a maximum of ten minutes. That's barely enough time for me to snap an Instagram photo of the two of us working out. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We got a fab apartment in old town Lindau on Lake Constance, near the start of the race. We could pick up our race numbers on the morning of the race which was a breeze, there were plenty of port-a-loos (although the German lack of queuing made it a bit awkward) and lots of arrows to follow to the start line. A well organised German marathon. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Hillary and I started with about five people behind us and pretty much stayed in that position for the first 10km as we ran into Austria. At this point Hillary started her run then stretch strategy, claiming it was to relieve her knees. I suspect it was an intimidation tactic to psyche out the 70 year old woman we were battling for position with at the time.What was equally intimidating was a giant clown that we came around the corner of the run to find. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCibwjjBeyXNmfWq7sQs1uzO4jaZIoVKeHwL4UowVqmSewoYmuCebYBOiRWXQm3RtajjunJtF9hXi5YiupLDfL_Ac1_z220fn767ZTiO1FxLjr82rv78dohwkUp26GLYWEelb6-c5jWxVn/s1600/IMG-20191007-WA0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCibwjjBeyXNmfWq7sQs1uzO4jaZIoVKeHwL4UowVqmSewoYmuCebYBOiRWXQm3RtajjunJtF9hXi5YiupLDfL_Ac1_z220fn767ZTiO1FxLjr82rv78dohwkUp26GLYWEelb6-c5jWxVn/s400/IMG-20191007-WA0010.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Austrian clowns</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">While running through Austria we admired the multiple play parks for children, giant crops of sweetcorn, cow bells and passion for unusual garden ornaments (concrete guitar anyone?) We also ran past some cows who were unusually stood in front of a house, next to a corner store. In New Zealand, we call corner stores a dairy, so perhaps it was a subtle form of support for us both. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEmWxDsqeNB2-Gg00Da_vE_9e8m0NJf0xZHvctSmz6fk3VihyIMdc9S91OB_FB0qsoEV1e0pePPpxgurrcXmj8p3VRCf6Muhl7sflzeH_s5SFYHGfjwY6cHQWVtIcWTOoW3FZfQxw8Ofq/s1600/IMG-20191007-WA0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEmWxDsqeNB2-Gg00Da_vE_9e8m0NJf0xZHvctSmz6fk3VihyIMdc9S91OB_FB0qsoEV1e0pePPpxgurrcXmj8p3VRCf6Muhl7sflzeH_s5SFYHGfjwY6cHQWVtIcWTOoW3FZfQxw8Ofq/s400/IMG-20191007-WA0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And Austrian cows</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Switzerland greeted us with enthusiasm; banging on tin drums and handing out dried fruit. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Returning to Austria was slightly depressing, both the lack of supporters and the long straight run along the river. Their support signs did make for entertaining reading, even if that wasn't their intention. Fortunately, Austria redeemed itself when some locals presented us with beer. We'd spotted it on our way out and discussed how we'd approach the matter when we came back past at 33km, which was the furthest distance Hillary had run. The steins had been flowing and the locals were delighted to help us partake in some beer tasting. Our names were on our numbers which meant the fans could chant 'Antonia! Hillary!' as we downed the beer. Hillary had sourced some quality beef jerky from the US of A which accompanied the beer splendidly. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAxRFKf0BeAk087vgi2yC-Te4WFUUlM3UPiUlK9tohBLwABnq1nAUoT9Gmb3NMEjQ3XMMKTE2VxT8jR5aszIDA5qg54KI7ZgnOduWhmRQEunJKasWZyDxWWE679bIWQedyxJVHDeZEiKa/s1600/IMG-20191007-WA0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAxRFKf0BeAk087vgi2yC-Te4WFUUlM3UPiUlK9tohBLwABnq1nAUoT9Gmb3NMEjQ3XMMKTE2VxT8jR5aszIDA5qg54KI7ZgnOduWhmRQEunJKasWZyDxWWE679bIWQedyxJVHDeZEiKa/s400/IMG-20191007-WA0015.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Austrian beer and marathons do mix</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwJhnr-tRFOZyj-EVyYK5I1AxUURl5cP0KYWUS7P-1aHzgndGcNs1ILjp9QcVOLsHNoRfzWpfVBs8R_e62abAPgLwckPyB655SdljE4l_5m7Tc5SA0pUsVbpsv1gQPlIdIzrgSXHf2E3W/s1600/IMG-20191007-WA0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwJhnr-tRFOZyj-EVyYK5I1AxUURl5cP0KYWUS7P-1aHzgndGcNs1ILjp9QcVOLsHNoRfzWpfVBs8R_e62abAPgLwckPyB655SdljE4l_5m7Tc5SA0pUsVbpsv1gQPlIdIzrgSXHf2E3W/s400/IMG-20191007-WA0002.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZmbrXGOZhhRWEuIvpduf3Jeok6IL3FYK1Oj8aNWA-LvgKSEPh7WWYnkH77Lg-bs5PqBRaZW8kd6XGS0jhIBzLmZFIfQeAllL0SvVVUelkElZyBCdKA8fdSBoGKersySctFRAT9Ol7MDw/s1600/IMG-20191007-WA0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZmbrXGOZhhRWEuIvpduf3Jeok6IL3FYK1Oj8aNWA-LvgKSEPh7WWYnkH77Lg-bs5PqBRaZW8kd6XGS0jhIBzLmZFIfQeAllL0SvVVUelkElZyBCdKA8fdSBoGKersySctFRAT9Ol7MDw/s400/IMG-20191007-WA0013.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">OK...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I hope the other runners didn't find us too annoying. We chatted the whole way. Well done to the runner who ran wearing a yellow hard hat in support of Hong Kong. Hillary (a recent 10km champion in California) and I both like to conserve our energy so that we feel strong for the second half of a run. With it being Hillary's first marathon, we were doubly cautious. This resulted in feeling pretty good throughout and maintaining a steady pace. We didn't wear watches but official splits show that we ran the same pace throughout each quarter of the race. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXXHrFyZIVvZIfbK4ILRkpEiYeuZwFn8_448Rh-ikulz-q2Iddnl0gcS_q1veZDjPDyvJ2FLw5_keZhJcIsrGomeZF6RCko2M8MjT64188bo4QGUpRh21HKhgMURvFTFZyjlWAh4ScX4C/s1600/IMG-20191007-WA0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXXHrFyZIVvZIfbK4ILRkpEiYeuZwFn8_448Rh-ikulz-q2Iddnl0gcS_q1veZDjPDyvJ2FLw5_keZhJcIsrGomeZF6RCko2M8MjT64188bo4QGUpRh21HKhgMURvFTFZyjlWAh4ScX4C/s400/IMG-20191007-WA0012.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Running from Switzerland to Austria</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Despite the course being packed up as we ran it, we finished hours before the cut off. The finish was disappointing; few spectators, alcohol-free beer, fruit that had been sitting out for too long, no signage for chips, bags or loos. Maybe they should have the finish line in Germany!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It was my fifth personal worst in a row. I'm going after Norm's record. Congratulations to Hillary who looked as fresh as a daisy. She says she's never doing another one though... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A week later, not only did some guy storm the marathon distance in under two hours, the female world record was also broken. If it wasn't for those two minor incidents, I am sure our achievement would have been all over social media. I mean, did they stop for beer? </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazJ_lcjqlKraZgOYan1CqQhAmYMLeRnajYXZCcGqng9BLMXs4qRikhf8h9MuZjIH47n0Xa2dmdayw1LHwYt0liF_9sl8hjvQJKc1L_xdj3RWGHX1mxVGumrPKulkYV3-uMumZA12PTrVz/s1600/11861477_p+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="266" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazJ_lcjqlKraZgOYan1CqQhAmYMLeRnajYXZCcGqng9BLMXs4qRikhf8h9MuZjIH47n0Xa2dmdayw1LHwYt0liF_9sl8hjvQJKc1L_xdj3RWGHX1mxVGumrPKulkYV3-uMumZA12PTrVz/s400/11861477_p+-+Copy.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Winners (OFFICIAL)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixXdC8C7XS-wP7CTTXS23qcQ8tER_lpBoSosxhzIzuBi0Ht1n_JaNabS0Tm1_64ujO4pf5qGp2iHSj-VCctBX_mdpJT171iZZQni2r8OPuE1dH135w0xw6l6jLRpuY67nkeeg3e1wJUCL0/s1600/IMG-20191006-WA0015+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixXdC8C7XS-wP7CTTXS23qcQ8tER_lpBoSosxhzIzuBi0Ht1n_JaNabS0Tm1_64ujO4pf5qGp2iHSj-VCctBX_mdpJT171iZZQni2r8OPuE1dH135w0xw6l6jLRpuY67nkeeg3e1wJUCL0/s400/IMG-20191006-WA0015+-+Copy.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#SisterSister</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span id="goog_1311577780"></span><span id="goog_1311577781"></span><br /></span>Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0Lindau (Bondensee), Germany47.5797815 9.6789333000000447.494081 9.51757180000004 47.665482000000004 9.84029480000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-58066127028819127662019-08-15T21:07:00.000+01:002019-08-18T14:43:41.994+01:00Isle of Harris Marathon - 5 Months Postpartum<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I entered the Marathon Hebrides (the first full marathon to be held on the Isle of Harris) while I was still pregnant. Obviously pregnant with my first baby and therefore had grand illusions of what motherhood would be like. I bought a treadmill so that I could train when my future baby 'napped.' </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA, said my baby boy. At five months old, he doesn't nap and wakes up every 1-2 hours at night to feed (or cuddle, or just say hi, or something). We haven't even thought about weaning. Oops. Oh well, we'd booked the accommodation, ferry tickets, car hire and my ma to come babysit from New Zealand. My postpartum recovery was not as easy as I'd expected. Turns out running and swimming until the baby pops out aids neither labour nor recovery. Should have sat on my arse and eaten more cake. My training had to start with walk/jogging 1km at 8 week postpartum, a few weeks break as directed by the physio and then a pretty swift leap to 10km after 12 weeks. One long run every two weeks was a struggle, with Scott and I tag teaming the parental duties. Fortunately, Carolyn Rae, fresh from a Western States finish, helped me out with a few 30km jogs. <span style="background-color: transparent; display: inline; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Scott's training plan consisted of one run per week, doubling his mileage ea<span style="font-size: 16px;">ch</span><span style="color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">week. An efficient approach! </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As it was the first year the marathon had been held, organisation was a little chaotic. Four hundred runners but only 40 parking spaces on an island with virtually no public transport. And even then, a shuttle from the parking paddock to registration, which was only open for three hours the night before. In the morning we were to drive an hour from where we were staying on the Isle of Lewis (it's hard to get accommodation) to the parking paddock and from there take a bus to the start line. At the end, we'd have another hour to drive before I would be able to feed the Master. My boobs were leaking at the very thought. Cue a rather tearful mum in the registration line. Fortunately, one of the organiser's had a new baby who was being breastfed at that very moment and took pity on me. Or perhaps he just didn't want my hormones rocketing around the registration room. So I fed the Master at the start line and would see him again as soon as I finished. Cue emotional relief. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At the start there were only two toilets so a large number of runners had to use the bathroom while being tickled by heather and using the local hand soap. Scott and I both chose to wear packs as we expected to be out on the course for a long time. Scott's carried the rural essentials; bivouac, Swiss army knife, camping stove, dehydrated food. I carried my breast pump, a couple of baby bottles and an entire packet of sweets. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The race started in Rodel, in the south of Harris. The first six mile loop involved a small trail section, some sheep and some nice views. We both got to give the Master a kiss shortly after the six mile mark and received a toothless grin in return. From there, we entered a lunar-like landscape which stretched for miles. Houses were dotted about and locals waved from their windows. Only fools would be out. It was all very pleasant and Scott and I jogged together, enjoying our longest date in five months. An older gentleman jogging along in jeans and a fleece was slightly ahead of us. Not that this was an indication of our pace, he was exceptionally fast of course. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Scott's efficient training schedule began to let him down slightly and he slowed. So far, the route was undulating with runners beginning to walk the lunar hills. At one point a sheep definitely went for me, jealous at the attention I was receiving from Scott. Or perhaps it was a giant horned lamb who wanted my milk. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By mile 18 I was getting cold walking up hills in the 40mph headwinds so Scott could catch me and we decided to go separate ways for the remainder of our date. Scott was headed to a whisky bar with the guys and I was off for some wine tasting with the ladies. Or maybe that's not quite what happened. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Anyway, I was quite happy plodding along. The first attempt at using the breast pump was successful, albeit a little clunky. I had to wear a crop top for support but also a maternity bra for access as I do not own a maternity running bra. It's so complicated being a woman. Adding to that I needed to undo my bag, unzip my rain jacket and get a milk funnel attached to a bottle under a t-shirt and vest. While attempting to jog. I managed to get a bit of milk which I then fed to a local lamb as it skipped beside me discussing the weather. On my second attempt, I get my clothing all arranged, set my pump up on someone's stone wall, and find out the batteries have gone flat. With 8km to go, I was now carrying half my body weight in my breasts alone and needed to haul it to get to the finish and feed the Master. The other runners must have wondered what on earth was going on as I'd pass them, then stop to pump, then pass them again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When you picture someone 'hauling it' you may imagine that they go at great speed. Picture again. We're talking hills and some serious headwind power. Oh the wind!! My French braids are now permanently perpendicular to my body. The views of the golden beaches and turquoise water were amazing though. Not amazing enough that I needed to run the final half kilometre on the sandy beach for a close up though. Cones marking the course across the sand began to get swept away as the tide came in. There were a number of supporters standing on the beach but no indication of where the finish line was. Eventually a guy with a clipboard waved; the finish flags had blown over and the two volunteers had jackets over their marshal vests because it was so cold. A slightly anticlimactic finish. And then we had to climb over a sand dune to get to the cars. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In a frantic attempt to feed the Master I undressed myself, forgetting that my bag of dry clothes was sitting in a marquee even further away. The bags had been sitting on wet ground so the dry clothes were a then a little damp. We couldn't find a changing area or toilet so had to do a bit of car Twister to get dressed while juggling a baby and our two very cold babysitters. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In hindsight, training for a marathon after having a baby was not very realistic. However, I felt pretty comfortable and happy throughout the run so the three runs above 20km that I managed clearly did the trick! It may have been easier to choose a marathon with easier logistics; less shuttles, somewhere warm for Master to wait, an earlier registration time... and perhaps a flat course with better weather. It took so long to run that it felt like an ultra. In fact, I've run the D33 - a 33 mile race - faster than this marathon on two occasions! But we all survived to tell the woolly windy tale. In my panic a few weeks ago, I started searching for other women that had run marathons with young babies so I could pick up any tips. Mostly, women had spent nine months training for a half marathon which did not quite fit my criteria. So, if you're reading this because you registered for a full marathon while pregnant and you're now a few months postpartum and wondering what you were thinking... stay calm and pump through it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Harris is lovely!</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOX5VVb1zsewgWgi9ktCjYIwrUlgz1cly9k8S_rophu-eQ7YmOPxvp89vOkHMV57pNtjoZQJRgKdbYJDMV1smTByLv3S4WJkTJJlfd8O711GvVjT0A6QYieAkaitWYNAyyY8hiHcV-zoR/s1600/IMG-20190810-WA0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOX5VVb1zsewgWgi9ktCjYIwrUlgz1cly9k8S_rophu-eQ7YmOPxvp89vOkHMV57pNtjoZQJRgKdbYJDMV1smTByLv3S4WJkTJJlfd8O711GvVjT0A6QYieAkaitWYNAyyY8hiHcV-zoR/s320/IMG-20190810-WA0008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyeIeEal5PvMiv1ytgr19IX5bAE_2jsxmAWJy3haCEwdqORmVQZYUMQ2Ytu2RLoSDnungeoYm0_pupWyhqj7lqpPMKMsm5_JFE1zCfJvvtys9WbE1dhRW9HC1Ti2nSqnQySWXPo8-HmLm/s1600/IMG-20190810-WA0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyeIeEal5PvMiv1ytgr19IX5bAE_2jsxmAWJy3haCEwdqORmVQZYUMQ2Ytu2RLoSDnungeoYm0_pupWyhqj7lqpPMKMsm5_JFE1zCfJvvtys9WbE1dhRW9HC1Ti2nSqnQySWXPo8-HmLm/s320/IMG-20190810-WA0007.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPpvjeLVN_kEUOciPgJ9akrt4VCSZ4wPxuvyuOOolq9qmzTnour01IlIVJOHffFNFGOkGNQGsIyivaycNWwYzhcNUd9Vtm16cZEZfvxy3DAlmqVS1ilGZtk-OcjR1xeWyMLEDWG6OdQtr/s1600/IMG_20190810_110630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPpvjeLVN_kEUOciPgJ9akrt4VCSZ4wPxuvyuOOolq9qmzTnour01IlIVJOHffFNFGOkGNQGsIyivaycNWwYzhcNUd9Vtm16cZEZfvxy3DAlmqVS1ilGZtk-OcjR1xeWyMLEDWG6OdQtr/s320/IMG_20190810_110630.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0Harris, United Kingdom57.9932604 -6.873621500000012957.4530664 -8.1645150000000122 58.5334544 -5.5827280000000128tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-74509931777035628792018-10-25T17:36:00.000+01:002019-08-15T17:52:53.866+01:00Kiev Marathon at 19 Weeks Pregnant<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When the superspeed duo of Ally and Norm sent through their list of 2018 marathon locations, Kiev seemed a no-brainer. I mean, who hasn't wanted to visit the Ukraine? I cannot remember if I was pregnant before or after entering but I clearly thought it would be fine regardless. Unfortunately, I didn't exactly glow during pregnancy and I dragged my feet out on two runs a week, one short and one long. Given that I wasn't particularly fit before pregnancy, building up those long runs felt pretty awful. On one occasion, Scott had to sprint home to get the car during a two mile run while I disposed of my stomach contents on the side of a country road. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On arrival, we paid some extra money at registration for some running travel insurance scam. I'm pretty sure that is what it was! Then I risked the life of my unborn child by taking a Ukrainian taxi through some back alleys. We went to dinner and there were guns on the walls. Some local youths then set the hotel bathrooms on fire. So far, pretty exciting. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It really was the boys chance to take me. Four and half months pregnant, surely they would take the victory. Scott and I started together at the back, Norm hit the front pack. After a few miles we were going to and fro with Norm who was implementing his success-proof walk-walk-run strategy. We passed some tanks. We also passed a number of police cars surrounding a smashed up old car who had clearly been pursued in some sort of chase in the middle of the marathon route. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some loo stops were made. Pregnancy stresses the bladder. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We ran past lovely churches. Or cathedrals. I'm not sure, just picture some nice religious buildings. After about halfway Scott and I were still together and had passed Ally on a long climb. By this time Norm was well back, having stopped to help a group of elderly ladies cross the road. Or so he says. Scott's back was pained from throwing grass seed around and I decided to press on. I remained comfortably uncomfortable throughout the run and tried to stay hydrated. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Upon finishing, I forgot that I shouldn't be drinking too much caffeine and downed three cups of cola. It was only upon starting a local dance mid-cup that I realised I had probably overdone it. Yes, I ran a personal worst of 4:20-something. But I still beat all the boys and felt pretty chuffed. I didn't ask for my doctor's permission to run. Why? Because my doctor doesn't even know who I am. I didn't ask for my midwife's permission. Why? Because all 17 of them don't have a clue who I am either. I knew I was ok to run and did so within my comfort zone. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As a side note, Kiev is a great city! Friendliness may not be common characteristic but it isn't in London either. We decided not to go to Chernobyl as I wasn't sure it was a responsible thing to do while pregnant. Baby Wesley was therefore born with all ten toes and all ten fingers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxZxIKL0Phz3Nq4btz_IWtihQpGcD6MKj0_yV-Gh0fgtMho5PoJQ7BuX4i-Ckm4sltHMajzhVjBAMETESK3Ee1ok4JxEauNUmgQnCwamY2LleAu6i0f9-xU0k7Mj792L-Ofs4YTXE3Ra6/s1600/IMG-20181006-WA0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxZxIKL0Phz3Nq4btz_IWtihQpGcD6MKj0_yV-Gh0fgtMho5PoJQ7BuX4i-Ckm4sltHMajzhVjBAMETESK3Ee1ok4JxEauNUmgQnCwamY2LleAu6i0f9-xU0k7Mj792L-Ofs4YTXE3Ra6/s320/IMG-20181006-WA0005.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNFroZGq64MoFhDf6HwpqPqfX5o54bI6aMMOkOYpy0n5oyOaT_uoJgjeCMRSOZnuSlLk8KMFanYN3GcTPgqoVg8g56K4FtJdNEZ5c8jL-n9Bn1yLohl-YE7OLLZhx4KY7IhBdwrqqaTqa/s1600/IMG-20181007-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNFroZGq64MoFhDf6HwpqPqfX5o54bI6aMMOkOYpy0n5oyOaT_uoJgjeCMRSOZnuSlLk8KMFanYN3GcTPgqoVg8g56K4FtJdNEZ5c8jL-n9Bn1yLohl-YE7OLLZhx4KY7IhBdwrqqaTqa/s320/IMG-20181007-WA0000.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Marathon medal, 19 weeks pregnant</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjimExtG0Sz2396dnkoLD5eHnmQKLIhO6LYbWzfWsSH5NemM0CgFFkuWWJdsyxLGcSSwfkn6nvJgJ_kxAwGOxYvXVg4yvMY-7L2lFKHtmOR4bID0dZ1NL4BWcpaUx_xs1nzVP_qqN3FVn1/s1600/IMG_20181006_190513378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjimExtG0Sz2396dnkoLD5eHnmQKLIhO6LYbWzfWsSH5NemM0CgFFkuWWJdsyxLGcSSwfkn6nvJgJ_kxAwGOxYvXVg4yvMY-7L2lFKHtmOR4bID0dZ1NL4BWcpaUx_xs1nzVP_qqN3FVn1/s320/IMG_20181006_190513378.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0fIsEPxDltlNU9pNB-18AYRxPoKvZCBimjJSLcOgZp_s36hhfzEmpADktFNedmQCTV2kq9ZkycFE0tkYi1ndOwkYWYPNFCHzZfUy9NuN5lWJMMAytNef3u7JD0IhIk7eU4_NsbEtoU1A/s1600/IMG_20181008_112630644_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0fIsEPxDltlNU9pNB-18AYRxPoKvZCBimjJSLcOgZp_s36hhfzEmpADktFNedmQCTV2kq9ZkycFE0tkYi1ndOwkYWYPNFCHzZfUy9NuN5lWJMMAytNef3u7JD0IhIk7eU4_NsbEtoU1A/s320/IMG_20181008_112630644_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ukrainian Taxi</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdvSi4w2Io5e2RGoG82jHsANLC29Zq3pgNCLA9QMGkpk41y2T-HgUu3lEOun83n_bUYT3QwsZh59_vP6hTeQRZ1kQsocdbMfh1J9qyqYUu3v-CohQ0zANGN0_PSxU9pdZQjTKEZBgbBGH/s1600/IMG_20181008_113017949_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdvSi4w2Io5e2RGoG82jHsANLC29Zq3pgNCLA9QMGkpk41y2T-HgUu3lEOun83n_bUYT3QwsZh59_vP6hTeQRZ1kQsocdbMfh1J9qyqYUu3v-CohQ0zANGN0_PSxU9pdZQjTKEZBgbBGH/s320/IMG_20181008_113017949_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tanks in Kiev</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiymuDsnI-433mz26yW9iXgu_U4gTfqdFDOZHOODxZAdrYHssRsE7HSuzBFEBiHib4YvwHsuyOcl3ItFUFsRVlTeugJqaEm08B5VzBFXBzu19vDe8NekYxSFAJqWZae7tbzYQXmp5WXjwb2/s1600/IMG_20181008_114134261_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiymuDsnI-433mz26yW9iXgu_U4gTfqdFDOZHOODxZAdrYHssRsE7HSuzBFEBiHib4YvwHsuyOcl3ItFUFsRVlTeugJqaEm08B5VzBFXBzu19vDe8NekYxSFAJqWZae7tbzYQXmp5WXjwb2/s320/IMG_20181008_114134261_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kiev marathon route</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0Kyiv, Ukraine, 0200050.4501 30.52340000000003849.8023485 29.232506500000039 51.0978515 31.814293500000037tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-38200443783503901932018-06-04T16:09:00.000+01:002019-08-15T17:55:25.800+01:00Boston Marathon & London Marathon 2018<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Big Reveal</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">W</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">alking up Arthur's Seat in September 2017, I told Scott I had something to tell him. After initially freaking out and throwing himself off the hill, I calmed him down to share the news that I had entered the Boston Marathon for the following April. I was not guaranteed an entry but we would need to book a holiday if I was accepted. Having studied in Rhode Island during the winter, Scott was keen to return during the summer. Shoulder season is not summer, thereby ruining his holiday plans.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Female qualification times are much more lenient than the men's qualification times. Despite this, as I have spent the last four years injured and unmotivated AND the Boston qualification times are reducing each year, I figured there were few years left whereby I would be able to gain the qualification without too much stress. So on that Saturday in September when I looked up the times I was pleased to find that I had qualified while running as the Roadrunner cartoon in London. Luggage restrictions meant that a costume was not logistically possible for Boston unfortunately. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">A combination of hamstring troubles and lazyitis meant that there was no training for Boston. Some people commented that they didn't see the point of running the iconic race if I was not going to do it properly. My argument was that I didn't see the point in running the race if I was so focused on a personal best that I didn't enjoy the atmosphere. I know it can be hard for runners to hear this BUT running a personal best does not make the world a better place, reduce poverty or save the whales. As it turns out, running a personal worst doesn't either. Hmmm, bothersome... </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Boston Incoming</span> </span></span></span></span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">April 2018 on the East Coast of the USA was Baltic. We strolled around New York in parkas, accidently ice skated and woke bears in New Hampshire, dodged sharks in Cape Cod and found ourselves in Boston. Fortunately we were staying with friends who made it easy getting to registration, despite some stress regarding the late arrival of my runner's passport in Scotland. I like to tear through these running conventions like it's a qualification in itself and I pride how quickly I can get through. This is particularly important in Boston where parking will cost you your dinner money for the rest of the week.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Throughout the week, the organisers had been emailing through weather warnings. Wind, rain and hail were forecast. It was recommended that we brought spare shoes to the start line so we could discard them when covered in mud. Well, I was on a two week holiday and sharing a check in bag with Scott. I only had the one pair. No, there were no extra warm layers to discard. No, I don't think the charities are going to want all our trampled, ripped and mouldy lycra or ponchos. They would rather that we did not buy that extra pair of running shoes and donated them some winter boots or hard cash instead! So I borrowed a friend's XL jacket that he was going to give away anyway assuming that I wouldn't want to run the whole marathon in a jacket. Obviously, my whole wardrobe plans were thrown out. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlOYVFukdBNLT1HLjELACaywJrcL5rJla0txcj2wD2xI3Wp9Tf4VyDhSoBwuLT7ZOynlj5rwWnVO59s9_e8oKUfEhFgvBXz8X1ocat8wMo1ZwD6fJGlIe4OEMbzl5QfpG6STqyjg0-Ax7/s1600/home+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="311" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlOYVFukdBNLT1HLjELACaywJrcL5rJla0txcj2wD2xI3Wp9Tf4VyDhSoBwuLT7ZOynlj5rwWnVO59s9_e8oKUfEhFgvBXz8X1ocat8wMo1ZwD6fJGlIe4OEMbzl5QfpG6STqyjg0-Ax7/s400/home+start.jpg" width="215" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Before I went outside into the weather</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7X3_nr6fVPTx0dfZA1jcbL9BUEdcCoCmZXzEdbmT1kl0sRTudbMDfRwUBceIldrIFFuNLtwTvJwA6JuqmJm59oNMr_pnzZcOeu35M-gMXFTvY0fYQo4m5cHJIrXzOJsAvKkMtft6Qusdr/s1600/yellow+bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="433" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7X3_nr6fVPTx0dfZA1jcbL9BUEdcCoCmZXzEdbmT1kl0sRTudbMDfRwUBceIldrIFFuNLtwTvJwA6JuqmJm59oNMr_pnzZcOeu35M-gMXFTvY0fYQo4m5cHJIrXzOJsAvKkMtft6Qusdr/s400/yellow+bus.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The actual running outfit</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;">F</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;">ortunately, friends gave me a lift t</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;">o </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;">a car pa</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;">rk near the start where I was then to take a bus to the start. There was a bit of traffic at the end of the hours drive before getting into the car park but otherwise ok. There was a small security set up where all the runners go briefly checked by the metal detector and then we climbed onboard the bus. Given that I was in the second colour band, I checked whether I should just walk to the start. I was told that the bus was quicker. Now, I am not sure if there was a problem with our particular bus but I am pretty sure that we went halfway back to Boston. Advice; it would have been half the time if I walked. By the time we arrived at the Athletes Village (disguised as a muddy filed), my band waves had gone (not a major deal). </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">I had thought I would just jog the mile to the start. So wrong. You could not move for people. I would like to think that everyone was cramming to the start line because they were cold rather than because they felt the need to be on the start when their colours were specifically being told NOT to make their way to the start line. The ground was chaos; discarded running shoes and clothing devoured by mud. Runners constantly tripping and getting a free massage in the mud when other runners stood on them. Eventually I made it to the start line just in time for the colour band that was supposed to be behind me went off. I needed to use the ladies facilities again but just wanted away from the chaos so started jogging. My attempt at a starting photo was unsuccessful due to the sky being water logged. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Boston Strong</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">A sea of poncho ghosts waded down the hill. For a race that has more difficult qualification criteria than most, we looked hilarious. Thousands of students in a dress up run during orientation week? Escapees from a local institution? Activists petitioning against fashion? Attitudes were fabulous though. My bladder was also fabulous once I used the facilities a few miles in. Then it was time to get some serious drinking in. I cannot accurately recall how I acquired my first beer but I think some supporters were drinking cans and I politely asked for one from their cool bin. It was mid-morning by then, they had probably been out quite a while watching the professionals slide past and yet no one had joined them in a session. So then I jog along with my giant can of bud and sip away happily. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">There were two flaws in my plan; the rain causing a slippery can surface and the cold causing me to have to constantly swap hands so I could tuck the other one inside the jacket. Gloves were deemed unnecessary, although that was clearly an error. When the winning female crosses the line wearing a rain jacket and gloves in a day time road marathon, it means the weather is pure dreich. Supporters were handing out dry socks. I thought about grabbing some for my hands. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Initially I was surprised at what I thought was very little police presence. There were plenty of marshals but no one that resembled police... As I was holding up my beer can to these marshals to say thanks for being out here, I realized that they were either angling their eyes down to avoid me or having a chuckle. Hmm... perhaps it's not quite legal to drink in public here... These were the police. Unlikely-to-run-for-more-than-a donut-type police but I guess that's why they probably have guns instead. I only saw a few with actual donuts. Likely very soggy. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Bikini-clad girls are screaming from the sidelines in a wee village. I don't think the weather got above a real feel of zero degrees Celsius for the entire race so a massive well done to those girls. I hope that their mermaid themed cups were filled with something strong beyond their years. After taking my time with my first can, I'm now on the look out for another beverage. What better way to emerge oneself in American culture than drinking beer from a red party cup?! I feel that it is all going rather swimmingly as I move forward sipping beer politely from my red cup. Hydration station? No, I'm all good here with my beer thanks! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Supporters are handing out chocolate bars, orange slices and sweets (which I'm avoiding in case they are those crazy cinnamon flavoured ones). I tuck them up my massive jacket sleeves for later. Other runners say that there are much less supporters out than usual given the extreme weather but I think that the supporters are great. I'm freezing, I cannot imagine how cold they are. Due to being saturation, I am chaffing in places that I was not expecting. My full length tights have long zips going up the side of my lower leg; now bleeding. The waistband and ankle bands are creating permanent scars. I can only imagine the state of my braids! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">I'm eagerly awaiting Heartbreak Hill. While I am not feeling particularly comfortable, it just sounds like it will be an exciting place. I get my loyal red cup topped up with beer near the start of the climb and then wave to my fans as I shuffle up. It's not massive but the atmosphere is. Cheers to you all. I think my beer is well watered down now with the rain and hail drops. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Until recently, everyone wanting to run the Boston Marathon had to qualify thereby making it a little special. The fastest get in, so someone like myself met the qualification criteria but was not necessarily confident about getting in because there are many faster runners. Now you can run for charities but there are no ballot places. As a child, I'd always wanted to run the Boston Marathon without knowing too much about the politics or difficulty (or the fact that apparently many runners CHEAT to get qualification times??!!) but now I am here as a fully-fledged adult running! So the whole running experience is amazing, even if I am having trouble with my hamstring seizing in the cold... I'll just keep slowing down so that I don't cause a tear...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">And then there's less than six miles to go. Less than 10km. The weather has prevented photo opportunities because my phone cannot respond to touch with the constant wetness. I'm sure my waterproof mascara is holding up nicely. The supporter's signs are fabulous. I've finished my red party cup and am looking out for a finishing beverage. I spot a sign which says BEER. It says other things too but I have not read them yet. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">'You're offering beer?' I ask</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">'Can do, are you an Eagles fan?' they respond (they're offering a Philadelphian beer, I've just been to Philly!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">'I don't know, I'm from New Zealand!' (that's me again) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">'You can have a beer then!' (that's them again)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(as I am leaving) 'I can't believe she's actually going to drink a beer!'</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">And that is how I got my fourth and final beer of the run. Police continue to avoid looking in my direction, supporters continue to cheer and I get a little slower. What a wonderful event! I know that we are near the end as ghosts are shedding their ponchos and turning into runners. The road has become a little hazardous with clothing to be discarded for the finishing photo. I was too cold to remove the XL jacket so I am running to the line with it. Unfortunately, I will be returning the jacket with a broken zip. I'm no sure how it broke but I do know I spent half the race zipping it back down when it began flapping in the wind. Although, maybe it was Boston's way of saying that I'm a superhero. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">In the finishing straight I cannot see Scott as there are people everywhere. I've run a personal worst but I do receive the best foil blanket/hoodie I've ever seen. A huge thank you to the marshals who stood at the finish line in the cold handing us those foil hoodies. A huge thank you to everyone who was out on the course marshaling, protecting or supporting. The weather was extremely MEMORABLE. But hey, I'd rather it memorable than boring. A huge thank you to Scott for braving the extremes to find me very quickly at the finish and get me on public transport as soon as possible. And a huge thank you to Kim and Daz for having us to stay and feeding us! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Apologies to wee Miss I who watched the race on television and burst into tears when I was not the overall winner. She wanted me to win and I feel I may have let her down. I will let the organisers know and they might be able to change the result. </span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNSXJC9mxN6JxLiA2xa8F8Ngd-Nis9qmzNdyJpJCZkN0_eFP0_z-sPqsuGcZPn94ArdXL42Ck2utJ0MG2jDyEQfLTuf-YSlT78rYuWBeJkGuBSpEORHO7ttsoV14K5tzDgCJ7bg_l_eTj/s1600/boston+end.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="433" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNSXJC9mxN6JxLiA2xa8F8Ngd-Nis9qmzNdyJpJCZkN0_eFP0_z-sPqsuGcZPn94ArdXL42Ck2utJ0MG2jDyEQfLTuf-YSlT78rYuWBeJkGuBSpEORHO7ttsoV14K5tzDgCJ7bg_l_eTj/s400/boston+end.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Beaten by the blizzard</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6udh6xE-GSljQkYbRBZdufz7NyH4derYVJaUObyTMljxR-cvNGKHtw8Q4kA-48PX7fhzjGD7hCS4DX9YiFo3MR7vGUrlZICBKY48cxbnBbxMMBVM0o2CQuJAlTaT-ct_nHhcov-g_2hB/s1600/boston+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="769" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6udh6xE-GSljQkYbRBZdufz7NyH4derYVJaUObyTMljxR-cvNGKHtw8Q4kA-48PX7fhzjGD7hCS4DX9YiFo3MR7vGUrlZICBKY48cxbnBbxMMBVM0o2CQuJAlTaT-ct_nHhcov-g_2hB/s400/boston+beach.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cape Cod</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-image: none;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Heatwave</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Fortunately, there was no pipe band playing halfway through our return flight to Edinburgh. With the Boston Marathon being held on a Monday, we arrived back into Scotland on the Friday. I had an email from the London Marathon; they were expected a (UK) heatwave. It was going to break the record for the hottest race day had been. Well, this was tempting. To go from the worst weather for the Boston Marathon to the hottest for London... all within in the same week... </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">So I emailed my friend Nicole. She was willing to put me up and even offered a Saturday night out on the cocktails. I booked a flight for about 6am on the Saturday morning and spent the rest on Friday sleeping. It wasn't really a good IDEA but I feel it makes for a great STORY. On Sunday morning, it still didn't feel like a great idea but I donned my new Boston cap, sunscreen and smile. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">There was chaos with the trains and we missed the bag drop off. I realize that it must be difficult to organize an event for so many people but I do wish these big events would do a better job of organizing the starts; it's kind of their job. We put our bags in the bag of a truck that may or may not be official. The helpers couldn't have been any LESS helpful and I end up running with my phone in my crop top and fashion sunglasses. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: xx-small;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">I just enter a pen near the back with an igloo, three dinosaurs, the Milky Bar kid and a couple of lassies in their seventies who qualified with Good for Age times. Epic ladies!! I start slow and get slower. This is a tactic to ensure that I get the best sun tan possible; albeit with t-shirt and short lines. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNudkkhf0GMfrNijnDN_6XcCbfvw6LwWFrTz_B1j-9nbqSAhbVjb9IHtx7JnTBWDV95Ww7QKzTTzYFq8OEOYnWclDRAbOLmsXy42hQj6RytQ94Ya-XDZBGnudAV8vBSEzhYjC3lRTksLG/s1600/queen+starting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="769" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNudkkhf0GMfrNijnDN_6XcCbfvw6LwWFrTz_B1j-9nbqSAhbVjb9IHtx7JnTBWDV95Ww7QKzTTzYFq8OEOYnWclDRAbOLmsXy42hQj6RytQ94Ya-XDZBGnudAV8vBSEzhYjC3lRTksLG/s400/queen+starting.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Queen started the marathon although she did not actually run herself. Unlike in the Faroe Islands where the mayor started the race and went on to run the half marathon herself. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I understand that it was a hot day, even for the spectators. I understand that the price of a pint in London is undesirable. But even still, Londoners were very stingy with their beers. Did no one think; it's a warm day out, I wonder if I should sell my three inch squared apartment and load up the ice box with craft beer for all those runners who are thirsty? No one did. At the expo (which I raced through as quickly as I could but it's a health and safety nightmare with overcrowding) I asked the shite beer sponsor if they would be providing any beer en route. The humourless guy with an inability to grow even the remotest of beards replied that it would be irresponsible to provide beer during the race. And that, my dear readers, is why he works for that shite beer company. I did eventually get a can of a different shite beer and that was greatly appreciated. I was also offered wine once my beer can was empty but given that the girl was drinking it straight from the bottle, I decided it might not be the Riesling from my home town that I typically prefer. A big thank you to her though. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCKlFIrLLS6FitSvu3vOgqXddsQwcnaWTY8jPtyQL-Pxcg5mHUI_CAnVC2PoJ0CX4_ODaF4qxA8Xg00WTcjTIZCJj0Bc_xpEV0r6sKYtUA40CKmDTOpK3L9_RpF8yvUmBthQP_IvGpt-O/s1600/fosters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="433" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCKlFIrLLS6FitSvu3vOgqXddsQwcnaWTY8jPtyQL-Pxcg5mHUI_CAnVC2PoJ0CX4_ODaF4qxA8Xg00WTcjTIZCJj0Bc_xpEV0r6sKYtUA40CKmDTOpK3L9_RpF8yvUmBthQP_IvGpt-O/s400/fosters.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I was responsible; I drank water too! </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sometimes I saw other runners with Boston Marathon attire and we had a wee chat. None of us were really feeling the running aspect of the day but were enjoying the novelty of the double. They had perhaps prepared for the double, whereas I had not. If there was a runner sitting down, I went for a chat to make sure they were ok. If there was a runner sitting down in the shade of a tunnel, I sat down with them! There were runners collapsing but always plenty of us to help out. I knew I would make it to the finish and did not care how long it took. Other people were struggling, why have them stop? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Throughout the run I managed to keep communication with my cousin who was supporting on the course with her husband and children. Conveniently placed opposite the Vaseline folk from St John's Ambulance (remember all that chaffing from Boston?) it was a good focus to get to and then stop for a chat. Thanks for the support Jessica! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5GZKp4UozIUjNuI16-yEvLmE5WNQw4siYDmoGpigYj1GN1HxfVrMNrotbJ2YQFHC7ViWJzbCCs2zOlL3Kb_s2vzZgoFFv8dFKRURCZlZrdfSonvXmE1O69r2KgLJWfRiAeaojK57U6dd/s1600/government+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="470" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5GZKp4UozIUjNuI16-yEvLmE5WNQw4siYDmoGpigYj1GN1HxfVrMNrotbJ2YQFHC7ViWJzbCCs2zOlL3Kb_s2vzZgoFFv8dFKRURCZlZrdfSonvXmE1O69r2KgLJWfRiAeaojK57U6dd/s400/government+sign.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">And I was probably walking! I do enjoy a good marathon sign.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Big Ben may have passed me. A tree may have passed me. I did beat the Emoji poo though. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And then I finished. My second personal worst in a week. Nicole and I were held up in the exit due to the changing of the guards. Fortunately, Nicole and I did not meet at the J sign as originally planned as that was out the exit and would have been a nightmare. Apparently, that was put in the race notes or something. Well, some of us only flew back into the country and decided to run on Friday... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On the start line I had heard rumours that the day was not going to be as hot as expected and therefore not break the record. I was disappointed by this. It would have made my story much less cool. Fortunately, the sun shone brightly and it was recorded as the hottest race day the London Marathon has had! Phew. From Baltic to blazing in six days. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sadly, there were a number of people on social media who attempted to deflate the achievements of the runners by saying that it was not that hot and people run in much hotter conditions all over the world. Of course they do. Even on a hot day, Britain is not that hot. I have run further in hotter conditions. But it is hard to run a marathon in mid-twenties when you have just had a very cold winter and no acclimitisation. If people had expected it to be that hot, people would have ensured they trained in multiple layers, inside gyms or something to help their bodies prepare. But it was unexpected until the week of the race so cut runners some slack. It was snowing when I flew out of Boston! Also, just don't be assholes. You've achieved something greater? Good for you. You need to tear people down because you are insecure about your own achievements? Speak to a professional who can help you with that. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Well done to the runners who stumbled, sprinted or fell across the line. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">The following week I went ice skating and canoeing. Marathon running was so last week.</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57cY5hGWdUkCglc2kfieQvdXlgINAc4v_LB0s1KJhyphenhyphenWLEqBhQvcu_jWR0lpeTKJHfoHBAi-hjqqlLgdJIKb59mHjmYC5Li41VMAklTSmGLmmgQXeaDaNcTntf3Jrq3Msz97mhokc6J6Zg/s1600/double+finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="470" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57cY5hGWdUkCglc2kfieQvdXlgINAc4v_LB0s1KJhyphenhyphenWLEqBhQvcu_jWR0lpeTKJHfoHBAi-hjqqlLgdJIKb59mHjmYC5Li41VMAklTSmGLmmgQXeaDaNcTntf3Jrq3Msz97mhokc6J6Zg/s400/double+finish.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Boston and London finishers attire</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-53065234346116083442017-11-13T02:09:00.002+00:002017-11-13T02:33:25.126+00:00Loch Ness Marathon 2017 <h3 abp="1359" style="text-align: center;">
<span abp="1360" style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Nessie on her home turf</span></h3>
<span abp="1363" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><h3 abp="1359" style="text-align: center;">
<span abp="1363" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<br abp="1364" /> </span></h3>
<span abp="1363" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="1366">
<span abp="1367" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For millions of years I have lurked peacefully in my home Loch of Ness. There was a brief period when my home was subjected to inspection from nosy tourists but they do not cause me too much bother. However, since 2002, there is one day a year when some non-swimming folk pound the ground next to my Loch of Ness. I poked my head up a few times to check out the action and fortunately no one spotted me. They were too busy staring at the neon shoes of the runner in front. There is quite a number of these folk. So, I have decided to give the event a go myself. </span></div>
<div abp="1366">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span> </div>
<div abp="1374">
<div abp="1375">
<span abp="1376" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today I have donned a kilt and Scottish bonnet in an attempt to fit in with the running creatures. I even stayed in accommodation with three older blokes and took a wheeled machine with the ordinary humans to the start line. The boys got quite the surprise when I walked out of the bedroom in the morning. Fortunately, my wheeled machine had a toilet but I must say that the entering of said machines is a bit of a shambles. One in front of us even broke down! </span></div>
<div abp="1375">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span> </div>
<table abp="1640" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1641">
<tr abp="1642"><td abp="1643" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1644" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7ZXYwbedy1XFiZBAtSf3vxmBScfUl75nTrB9Luu1CqpTqfs5c_3CVzXdL7RhEUJVpF6i09pMV1YAH1DDSWul4tyX4qXw0I9gE0derSgzRpLbEuFkSIFJpY5_0rvma-UywEaM_vdFfi8s/s1600/start+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="1645" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img abp="1646" border="0" data-original-height="929" data-original-width="523" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7ZXYwbedy1XFiZBAtSf3vxmBScfUl75nTrB9Luu1CqpTqfs5c_3CVzXdL7RhEUJVpF6i09pMV1YAH1DDSWul4tyX4qXw0I9gE0derSgzRpLbEuFkSIFJpY5_0rvma-UywEaM_vdFfi8s/s400/start+side.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="1647"><td abp="1648" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="1649" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nessie with kilt (because the costume was for a 7 year old and my physique differs from that of a child's)</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1650" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div abp="1377">
<span abp="1380" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The heathered landscape creates a barren start. Fortunately, the man in charge of our wheeled machine lets the human folks and myself stay sheltered inside. He is what is referred to as a <i abp="1381">good bloke</i>. In typical running event fashion, there are not enough port-a-loos and many creatures have to go heather. Going heather when you are the Loch Ness Monster is a difficult endeavor. </span></div>
<div abp="1382">
<span abp="1383" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br abp="1384" /></span>
<span abp="1385" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All creatures huddled together near a sign that read 4:30. Overly ambitious for some among us (Norm, who interestingly tries to take off ahead without us noticing). Keith keeps his pace calm while Ally and I go slightly ahead. Running proved more difficult than expected due to overpopulation issues. There are not many of us in Loch Ness but far too many squeezed onto this road. These human folk are making me cough and sneeze. Must be their germs I am not used to. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="1386">
<div abp="1387">
<span abp="1388" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
</div>
<div abp="1390">
<div abp="1391">
<span abp="1392" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After a few miles, I pass two of my cousins who are also having a go at this land maneuvering event. They are also named Nessie as we have strict naming guidelines in our community. And all you humans just thought there was one of us! International guests are particularly joyful at my presence; they can go home and tell their loved ones that they have indeed seen the Loch Ness Monster. I do aim to please.</span></div>
<span abp="1394" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><div abp="1393">
<span abp="1394" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="1394" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="1393">
<span abp="1396" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The land is undulating. Like waves. But I live in a loch where we have less waves and more boat splash. I am surprised at the undulation. Perhaps I should have read the land description; I think it was on page 712 of the advertising pdf I was sent. However, downloading limits are tight below the surface. I've not trained for this event; how do you train from the depths of a loch? </span></div>
<div abp="1393">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span> </div>
<div abp="1393">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1691" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYz7OWP0WROYm1Cu8_CxnxswkHDQr-NyamkLWxH-ujw9q8bSKSTjCioEFoVU5mY6oj-HNEwu5f2p7JmjhmyvDwQG9CE-Y1s8CRox9dTajT81nDFKkgQULopLdKOBjel3u0RZHPc8YJFUsV/s1600/running+scott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="1692" border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="660" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYz7OWP0WROYm1Cu8_CxnxswkHDQr-NyamkLWxH-ujw9q8bSKSTjCioEFoVU5mY6oj-HNEwu5f2p7JmjhmyvDwQG9CE-Y1s8CRox9dTajT81nDFKkgQULopLdKOBjel3u0RZHPc8YJFUsV/s400/running+scott.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With a long-legged land dweller</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1393">
<span abp="1398" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br abp="1399" /></span>
<span abp="1400" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of the land dwellers tickles my fancy and I decide to run with him. His name is Scott. Like the land. After a while he needs to relieve himself so I travel backwards up the hills waiting for him. We rejoin at about half way. Despite having longer legs than me, he is looking a little worse for wear. He's not looking as bad as the some of the long legged folk though. Everyone is busting their legs to stay hanging out with the infamous Nessie. Some others have donned kilts too; family tartans like mine I assume. A spectator cheers out for a crocodile which makes me speed up in fear. However, I suspect he was cheering for me and just wasn't a local. I have deceived him. </span></div>
<span abp="1402" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><div abp="1401">
<span abp="1402" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="1402" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="1401">
<span abp="1404" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">An issue I wasn't expecting was chaffing. Down my neck. Down my sides. Chaffing that was to leave scars. It turns out monsters have side seams and head pieces. Engineer ?????? suggested that for my next running attempt, I attach the head piece to a cap to stop it moving around so much. A wise thought. Vision is limited. That's just a down-side of being Nessie. Most of the route has been a small road with trees. It sounds nice but after a while it is rather boring. Even the sight of my home loch is not as interesting from above. </span></div>
<div abp="1401">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span> </div>
<div abp="1401">
</div>
<div abp="1672" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1673" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjip2NokXbtdQupCTs3miQJf2NEY_4zHhVzrCanv5hARz4eOOC-pKXx4QDXOEQxA0ZudqgNxJGyZAD7xV2zNf-SfIOzsqKTCwHRPtIGpxIN36z3vpkuUVVe-Yvrd19aUFCVfo-sa1YeMBR3/s1600/twins+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1674" border="0" data-original-height="1540" data-original-width="1600" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjip2NokXbtdQupCTs3miQJf2NEY_4zHhVzrCanv5hARz4eOOC-pKXx4QDXOEQxA0ZudqgNxJGyZAD7xV2zNf-SfIOzsqKTCwHRPtIGpxIN36z3vpkuUVVe-Yvrd19aUFCVfo-sa1YeMBR3/s400/twins+photo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="1401">
</div>
<div abp="1405">
<span abp="1406" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br abp="1407" /></span>
<span abp="1408" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We pass through a small village and the few spectators who are out give great cheers. The fine rain (it soaks you through) does not bother me too much. I am used to being covered with much greater amounts of water. At the 19 mile mark, Scott and I decide to part ways to increase the chances of relationship survival. I will finish 14 minutes ahead of him, a Nessie personal worst. I glide up some hills, passing the bedraggled human folk. It must be my home turf advantage. Some runners are worried that they are hallucinating. I do nothing to lessen their concerns. With my head sliding from side to side and my kilt swaying, I soar into Inverness. Spectators do a great job of keeping spirits up; particularly important as the finish line can be seen for miles before it is reached. </span></div>
<div abp="1409">
<span abp="1410" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br abp="1411" /></span>
<span abp="1412" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm waving to children, grannies and their dogs. Their is an arch indicating the end of this event. I am photographed with some children, who may have been a little scared. Scott needs a bit of support upon finishing (just a touch over the four over mark) and I am a bit of a hit in the ladies changing tent. Drizzle continued to drizzle. The soup was awful. The beer tent was closed. Seriously, no beer left? </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="1413">
<div abp="1414">
<span abp="1415" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br abp="1416" /></span><span abp="1417" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My new human pals all finished after an eternity and I was then allowed into the wheeled vehicle to drink some beers I had stashed away. I opted not to keep the key on me because I couldn't imagine that Norm would get beaten by Nessie. On the wheeled journey home, I noticed a few other human folk coughing. Norm really wanted me to mention this. Maybe I've passed on some of my monster germs to them. I look forward to getting a million years wear out of my new marathon t-shirt; just like my new pal Norm.</span></div>
<span abp="1419" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><div abp="1418">
<span abp="1419" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="1419" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="1418">
<span abp="1421" style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Special thanks to Shona for the fabulous breakfast in rural Perthshire on the drive up! </span></div>
<div abp="1418">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span> </div>
<div abp="1654" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1655" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchyVVkPaX-GrrnBvExgCc0Uv14In6fx8xJ98vSbFZw5XlHFI6fma4X_xMRRbmGNThCQZwEcUMSpGQ0LdQL6orwDOzwA4YfRxC1_Z-TmYWWSDi2chTTOJJKw2TFf8hxovCb_c1Pm18Glky/s1600/finish+instagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1656" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchyVVkPaX-GrrnBvExgCc0Uv14In6fx8xJ98vSbFZw5XlHFI6fma4X_xMRRbmGNThCQZwEcUMSpGQ0LdQL6orwDOzwA4YfRxC1_Z-TmYWWSDi2chTTOJJKw2TFf8hxovCb_c1Pm18Glky/s400/finish+instagram.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="1418">
</div>
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com1Loch Ness, United Kingdom57.3228575 -4.424381799999991957.0481565 -5.0698287999999918 57.5975585 -3.778934799999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-34764838562059968862017-07-11T11:14:00.000+01:002017-11-13T02:32:45.491+00:00West Highland Way Race - Support Running<div abp="206">
<b abp="1367" id="docs-internal-guid-5c532826-2edc-6f84-f2c6-04d696961b25" style="font-weight: normal;"></b><div abp="1516" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
<b abp="1367" id="docs-internal-guid-5c532826-2edc-6f84-f2c6-04d696961b25" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1519">
<div abp="211">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1803" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1804" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPZ0Mtg83DzmzvlNRJr5_Livnk6GoyKHRu2eB2MvJA2s3PBX9MbChUfzR9jRIv998CYeZ93Ej66VlpQ2KEeY8F6w4pE3XG3EQlwwnAustfF-jBXD8BNilBfoig3SloIC-cfSjvScgi-by/s1600/robbie+williams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1805" border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="960" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPZ0Mtg83DzmzvlNRJr5_Livnk6GoyKHRu2eB2MvJA2s3PBX9MbChUfzR9jRIv998CYeZ93Ej66VlpQ2KEeY8F6w4pE3XG3EQlwwnAustfF-jBXD8BNilBfoig3SloIC-cfSjvScgi-by/s400/robbie+williams.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1520" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1523">
<div abp="217">
<span abp="1369" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span abp="1826" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1372" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="221">
<span abp="1373" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1374" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="224">
<span abp="1375" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We were a last minute support crew. A ‘caught-up-in-emotion’ during Rock DJ at a Robbie William’s concert kind of support crew. Some people get emotional over Angels but I’m a different type of person. The type of person you would like to run with over the Devil’s Staircase as the sun is going down. And that was Alan Crawford’s thought too. So Scott and I hired a car and with two weeks to go, we didn’t bother with any other preparations. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1376">
<div abp="227">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1378" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="229">
<span abp="1379" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The main success of the weekend was that I drove part of the way from Edinburgh to Tyndrum. I did not drive us into a loch or up the rear of a tour bus. My first attempt at UK driving may have got off to a jerky start but it was successful in the end. Much like Alan’s West Highland Way race this year to be honest.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1380">
<div abp="232">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1806" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1807" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYb4Oe63OEmRcuZo4ONOEaXWCK0i7FbPaI03P3472JFFJgHD_BVHViCa3719eOOXvR6HAwiv7eL4GADIkbH534pnfF7tKkV_ys67-fedHWaUMPB1gZvEVtgXN4W3NBTbH9iN1Q1Dl6Lzm3/s1600/drive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1808" border="0" data-original-height="881" data-original-width="1175" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYb4Oe63OEmRcuZo4ONOEaXWCK0i7FbPaI03P3472JFFJgHD_BVHViCa3719eOOXvR6HAwiv7eL4GADIkbH534pnfF7tKkV_ys67-fedHWaUMPB1gZvEVtgXN4W3NBTbH9iN1Q1Dl6Lzm3/s400/drive.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1809" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1810" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1382" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="239">
<span abp="1383" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alan and Terry were running together and had the combined force of their Susans and the Gang of Giggling Ladies looking after them. When we joined the crew at Auchtertyre; they had the Love Bus full of coffee and cheer. Alan had been vomiting up the Lochside, leaving Terry to hold his hand. When they arrived into Auchtertyre, they were already one hour down on their target time of 24 hours and just going for the finish. Terry lost 2kg off his petite 62kg frame and had instructions to eat. He’d been unwell for a month with a virus, and although he was still a good looking bloke, you could see in his face that he wasn’t too well. Alan was feeling ok by then but did spend a considerable amount of time faffing with his feet. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1384">
<div abp="242">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1926" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1927" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdpFD99ZPZxYnEMB0UlP7efaLooj2gL-ISOuGewRcYvIjx03DP4zbJ7ZoUXvKwxoycKaFyJ3mfUljxE-xv5Q5OlWcwKvW7VWRegYyMlvFOV_SIYwy7Cd4K7as5Mz6C_pwFUzYag0dmchk/s1600/beer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1928" border="0" data-original-height="881" data-original-width="661" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdpFD99ZPZxYnEMB0UlP7efaLooj2gL-ISOuGewRcYvIjx03DP4zbJ7ZoUXvKwxoycKaFyJ3mfUljxE-xv5Q5OlWcwKvW7VWRegYyMlvFOV_SIYwy7Cd4K7as5Mz6C_pwFUzYag0dmchk/s400/beer.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1926" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1929" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1386" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="249">
<span abp="1387" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The boys did not need my support running skills for the next section as they were still sharing their opinions on each episode of Love Island. Once they reached Bridge of Orchy, they decided it was time for my excellent chat. Fortunately, I had only consumed the one beer at the pub and was still able to find the trail. Terry was slow up the hills but could run the flats reasonably well. Alan was strong up the hills but ran slower on the flats. If we went as slow as the slowest runner on the hills and flat, we were going to be out for a long time. Both were feeling an amount of pain that resulted in whinging. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1388">
<div abp="252">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1390" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="254">
<span abp="1391" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And then there was some weather; howling wind, sideways rain, freezing rain. I ran in the 2012 race which was a very wet year but I did not remember it being this cold along Rannoch Moor. I met Terry that year for the first time as I was lost having to take a diversion into Tyndrum. We then ran to Glencoe pretty much together before I threw a tantrum and stormed to the finish. This year I was fortunate enough to be in long tights and be wearing a non-waterproof waterproof jacket. The boys had jackets of varying waterproofability (can you believe that word is not yet in the dictionary?!) but no trousers on. Everyone was well cold. It was important that they moved as much as they could. Alan went on ahead and Terry dropped back; throwing his toys. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1392">
<div abp="257">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1930" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1931" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPg7iTRiafj7Gyw4bKuqEPJbU7OzrZAta5PRddfIhFP2SZYmykgBI1cGa40FPTBiyIin76SuGXhXMUEFfJiBcXvm4TiFcnHfJnNMJ9db99GyClCUknoofpJQwMf8JUdkVYizaz9NmG9LK/s1600/blurry+terry.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1932" border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1320" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPg7iTRiafj7Gyw4bKuqEPJbU7OzrZAta5PRddfIhFP2SZYmykgBI1cGa40FPTBiyIin76SuGXhXMUEFfJiBcXvm4TiFcnHfJnNMJ9db99GyClCUknoofpJQwMf8JUdkVYizaz9NmG9LK/s400/blurry+terry.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1933" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1934" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1935" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1936" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9l6ltX7_NZmiMHRmz9j6GzXu0L-47hCyKZ5aTN1W-cNndzT_vZKYUiEoRYKD3O-ok3U50AZiwbIhJC4uSCfUiJzqmHZc4Tedu4Z572_7AYAMxcLm_sCdwCt8zWy2FPp5J-5sqjCR0x3vq/s1600/jellybean+hill.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1937" border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1320" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9l6ltX7_NZmiMHRmz9j6GzXu0L-47hCyKZ5aTN1W-cNndzT_vZKYUiEoRYKD3O-ok3U50AZiwbIhJC4uSCfUiJzqmHZc4Tedu4Z572_7AYAMxcLm_sCdwCt8zWy2FPp5J-5sqjCR0x3vq/s400/jellybean+hill.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1935" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1935" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1394" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="269">
<span abp="1395" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I ran between the two, providing little support to either. Basically, I just ran back and forth keeping myself warm. There was a beautiful rainbow amongst the wild weather. Terry told me where I could shove that. He’s actually a really nice guy, he was just in quite a bit of pain. Alan enjoyed the rainbow; which was a lovely start to what would be a long night on the Way. Eventually I went ahead to deliver the runners’ orders to the crews. They both needed a change of clothes and to get warm. Terry also wanted a sleeping bag to sit in. And he wanted someone to sit in the sleeping bag for him until he arrived so that it would be warm. I also delivered the message that Bill Hiers may have to do some talking to Terry to keep him going. There were a lot of painkillers being consumed. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1396">
<div abp="272">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1938" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1939" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL8UnPWEUqYtnq2do8ihNi3wJnIOp2dhXoAixayQf2VoDw59PQAQ2Zq-J7eobhCo0Q_ynGAoccOXMEHQ7Ve7pmCzrQQD_J379lJMc7PEn9cT0iOt17ek40vBhn-h8O81VxtSPVGu2-6cR/s1600/rannoch+moor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1940" border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1320" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL8UnPWEUqYtnq2do8ihNi3wJnIOp2dhXoAixayQf2VoDw59PQAQ2Zq-J7eobhCo0Q_ynGAoccOXMEHQ7Ve7pmCzrQQD_J379lJMc7PEn9cT0iOt17ek40vBhn-h8O81VxtSPVGu2-6cR/s400/rannoch+moor.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1941" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1398" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="278">
<span abp="1399" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As I entered Glencoe, Keith Hughes came running towards me looking for Matt Stoner. Matt was on for his first goblet and had been running between Terry and Alan. Like the boys, I knew he was cold and not moving too fast. But he was in high spirits and after getting warm would make it to the finish. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1400">
<div abp="281">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="282">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1402" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="284">
<span abp="1403" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leaving Glencoe was hard as we left Terry wrapped up in the Love Bus. He was in great hands but I was worried as I had never seen him like this before. Alan was crying that he had deserted Terry and was worried he wouldn’t continue. Don’t worry folks, we would later hear that Bill and Susan got Terry in for a sub-30 finish. The long term consequences of this were unknown at the time of the blog’s publication. Thanks to Lorna for checking up on all the runners at Glencoe! </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1404">
<div abp="287">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1942" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1943" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsuNlQr85AdxBon5RyCItgYiUtePD61dirmaUGnKjULQ8kQ58D4B3114rilyK_CsLiH9eSyWVP8srhv1v2Pbw4RaxQbAAhdgIHQgY9qj-JXfz9lfMb6IqvKHH6kSx8Nc3tr8eHCfx7ad5/s1600/rainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1944" border="0" data-original-height="185" data-original-width="185" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsuNlQr85AdxBon5RyCItgYiUtePD61dirmaUGnKjULQ8kQ58D4B3114rilyK_CsLiH9eSyWVP8srhv1v2Pbw4RaxQbAAhdgIHQgY9qj-JXfz9lfMb6IqvKHH6kSx8Nc3tr8eHCfx7ad5/s400/rainbow.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1945" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1406" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="293">
<span abp="1407" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As neither of my waterproof jackets are waterproof anymore, I opted to wear two for the next sections. As I had changed into dry gear (no one wants the support runner being a liability by getting cold and I’ve already got a cold and chesty cough - I hope Alan doesn’t notice), I was now wearing tights and long-sleeve tops that I had reserved for my pyjamas that night. Never mind. I changed in the backseat of the car; ripping my merino pants and eating pizza whilst pantless. Living the dream. I made Alan wear his waterproof trousers and he’d stolen Susan’s rain jacket. That poor lady stood in the rain for FOUR hours earlier waiting at Beinglas.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1408">
<div abp="296">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1410" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="298">
<span abp="1411" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alan had a solid run to the bottom of Devil’s Staircase. He was a bit dizzy on the way up the Devil’s; hot then cold, hot then cold butt he made good progress. The paths leading down into Kinlochleven were essentially rivers and all the good paths were taken by water. Fortunately, I’d predicted this and carried an inflatable dinghy with me. After making all the runners blow it up for me, I floated into Kinlochleven drinking a mulled wine. Unfortunately for the competitors, their presence on the dinghy would have been deemed as cheating so they were left to make their way by foot. We did make it into Kinlochleven before it was dark. Congratulations to all the runners who came down there in the dark; top effort indeed. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1412">
<div abp="301">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1946" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1947" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYzTxpX2tc-kPq73xYMR2gmEEzPUz1Bu2jZSpPYl4jjc4lvOz2MI74kr0z7w6Ep2gl9hONxanK3fGelnDu1EDMBUWay4sD1Qduzry4dABDCph_81NzYbVPtiCO4OoWM6esbPDEbXZDcXX/s1600/devils.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1948" border="0" data-original-height="881" data-original-width="496" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYzTxpX2tc-kPq73xYMR2gmEEzPUz1Bu2jZSpPYl4jjc4lvOz2MI74kr0z7w6Ep2gl9hONxanK3fGelnDu1EDMBUWay4sD1Qduzry4dABDCph_81NzYbVPtiCO4OoWM6esbPDEbXZDcXX/s400/devils.JPG" width="225" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1949">
<div abp="306">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1950" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1951" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajqCpx9FRrwq2ri-kg7wtDO21Qo1KIhqvL1HimvMr7e5FX7-om8IXWdztx_1IITshVW6kNEzrv2qNfc9-YTKB9l6D34gOtOEqFml5TO_ug9JeLt8IQyCX3h3uiygOJqpXpwB6IyqGQuiQ/s1600/me+at+top.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1952" border="0" data-original-height="881" data-original-width="496" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajqCpx9FRrwq2ri-kg7wtDO21Qo1KIhqvL1HimvMr7e5FX7-om8IXWdztx_1IITshVW6kNEzrv2qNfc9-YTKB9l6D34gOtOEqFml5TO_ug9JeLt8IQyCX3h3uiygOJqpXpwB6IyqGQuiQ/s400/me+at+top.JPG" width="225" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1950" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1950" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1955" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VEOxybBXgRmNMzF09vFx2HfUyO38vK5hlvuvYNqfgXi9xxFSnl_MZhyMIjZc8quwen6FbvwCkONpUpenNu2-MIXN7TS6_4H0PWztl8fA1LwECl9jbe4qQPBOylDLhKyEC843831B7Vi3/s1600/run+down.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1956" border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1320" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VEOxybBXgRmNMzF09vFx2HfUyO38vK5hlvuvYNqfgXi9xxFSnl_MZhyMIjZc8quwen6FbvwCkONpUpenNu2-MIXN7TS6_4H0PWztl8fA1LwECl9jbe4qQPBOylDLhKyEC843831B7Vi3/s400/run+down.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1953">
<div abp="315">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1957">
<div abp="317">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1958" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1959" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeqMB0loKvYpjQnYtoZk6Gw9GydfOcCQfqsPLYXWb-eZS4OFVEtHuaI1Kfzt-kv31jgCBKXjeu8jnyZPm3uKESkc39kmGPVpw1Gz0OV1knoGshlPuMMKnpInk3GcKCVZ0tT9SOsuhHHAP/s1600/top.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: white;"><img abp="1960" border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1320" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeqMB0loKvYpjQnYtoZk6Gw9GydfOcCQfqsPLYXWb-eZS4OFVEtHuaI1Kfzt-kv31jgCBKXjeu8jnyZPm3uKESkc39kmGPVpw1Gz0OV1knoGshlPuMMKnpInk3GcKCVZ0tT9SOsuhHHAP/s400/top.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1412">
<div abp="322">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="323">
<span style="color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1414" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="325">
<span abp="1415" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just before Kinlochleven I floated past a number of runners; including Bob Allison who was very spaced. Again, he made it to the finish. Alan just wanted a very quick stop here which I was in full support of. Weigh in, bathroom and fill up bottles. He was drinking coke, Irn Bru and eating a few sweeties. I didn’t push the food intake, he would make it to the finish on coke and Irn Bru alone if he needed to. It turns out, that he did just that. I, on the other hand, stuffed in more pizza and then started eating Alan’s sweets. There wasn’t a lot of chat going on but I did have to ask about the white Skittles. Ultrarunners are weird but to have a fascination with just the white ones? Odd. Turns out, they were released for Pride. Fun fact for the weekend. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1416">
<div abp="328">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1418" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="330">
<span abp="1419" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Climbing out of Kinlochleven, Alan starts leaping over frogs. Hallucinated frogs. The trail itself is actually frogless. There is a giant log covering the path, so we take the path that has not been deliberately blocked. I have been on this section twice before; both were five years ago and during the day time. It is now dark and I need to be careful to lead us in the right direction. Keith Hughes on the other hand, has completed the WHW ten times and later leads Matt on the wrong path. Looks like Alan chose his support runner well. I’m not too sure what to do. How much chat does he want? How much should I push him? I opt for, running on the flat and downhills. Walking any inclines. If I can get away with running up a small incline, I do. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1420">
<div abp="333">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1422" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="335">
<span abp="1423" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is dark and wet underfoot. Sometimes it rains, sometimes it doesn’t. We have enough layers, we are not cold. Alan pees every three minutes and 26 seconds. We look back and see a line of headtorches coming off the Devil’s staircase. It’s a nice sight and reminder that we are fortunate to already be on Lairig Mor. I lead at the front; setting the pace and only occasionally hearing a sad whimper from behind me when Alan couldn’t catch up. In the dark I would use exaggerated marching arms for when we were walking and an exaggerated high bounce for running. Alan doesn’t complain so there are no stern words. Walk. Jog. Walk. Alan thinks that this is the fastest he has done this section. It isn’t but I am giving him a ton of positive reinforcement so he feels that he is going faster. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1424">
<div abp="338">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1426" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="340">
<span abp="1427" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although we have been on our own since Kinlochleven there are now some head torches behind us. They stay behind us until we are running down the fire road (aka, spiral of death). With two miles to go, Alan decides that he needs to take off his waterproofs. My suggestion that maybe he could wait until the finish is not supported. He sits down on the fire road and we make a meal of getting his waterproofs off. His jacket weighed a ton. For maximum waterproofness, he had worn a giant cycling jacket since Glencoe. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1428">
<div abp="343">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1430" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="345">
<span abp="1431" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alan is now peeing every two minutes and 41 seconds. </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1432">
<div abp="348">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1434" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="350">
<span abp="1435" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have not been looking at the time as I knew that we would not finish for under 24 hours so did not see the point in worrying. Plus, we were having a blast. It is now that back of 3am, 26 hours into the race. I ask Alan for his worst time, hoping that I would not be the one responsible for creating it. It turns out, we are on for his second best time! Whoop! So Alan runs solidly (albeit a little slow) and we pass a runner and his support coming through Braveheart carpark. Earlier in the race, there wasn’t much difference between the runner and the support runner, however, now there is quite a big difference in the leg movement! </span></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1436">
<div abp="353">
<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<span style="color: white;">
</span><div abp="1438" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="355">
<span abp="1439" style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The road to the leisure centre was a little longer than I remember. I am pleased that I didn’t have to run 95 miles, 30-something has been quite enough. Big Al enters full sprint across the line to take the race in 26 hours and 22 minutes. Quite a finish for 3:30am. A huge congratulations to him and a big thank you to the Love Bus and Susan for looking after us and keeping Scott company. Thank you also to their pals for letting us crash at their apartment. My sleeping bag still stinks from crashing in it without showering. Ewwww.</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="1438" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div abp="358">
<span abp="1439" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span> </div>
</div>
</b><div abp="360">
<br /></div>
<div abp="1769" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="1440">
<div abp="363">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-56251277595311950112017-06-18T21:41:00.003+01:002017-06-18T23:24:34.317+01:00Torshavn Marathon, Faroe Islands<div abp="10">
<span abp="3133" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Truth be told, Scott busted me booking this trip for myself two weeks before the marathon. I read about it and couldn't get over it, so decided to go. Scott decided to come too and participate in the half marathon. It was our wedding anniversary after all. So we booked the only accommodation left (a lovely top storey flat overlooking the water) and excitedly packed outdoor clothing. What is in the Faroe Islands? Hills, waterfalls, puffins, geese, ducks and sheep. The animals are inbred so they are now special to the Faroe Islands. </span></div>
<div abp="11">
<span abp="3134" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="12">
<span abp="3135" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A few other interesting snippets of information;</span></div>
<ul abp="13">
<li abp="14"><span abp="3136" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">in December, the Faroes get an average of six sunshine hours for the whole month</span></li>
<li abp="15"><span abp="3137" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">the Gulf Stream prevents the Faroes from getting crazy cold, although it is still cold</span></li>
<li abp="16"><span abp="3138" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">the average high in summer is about 12 degrees Celsius</span></li>
<li abp="17"><span abp="3139" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">there are far more men than women so there are a number of brides from Thailand and Indonesia</span></li>
<li abp="18"><span abp="3140" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">they are part of the Kingdom of Denmark </span></li>
<li abp="19"><span abp="3141" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">the Faroes have the highest fertility rates in Europe... not much else to do I guess</span></li>
<li abp="20"><span abp="3142" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">the waterfalls trundle down the sloping hills like rivers</span></li>
<li abp="21"><span abp="3143" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">they are building two sub-sea tunnels</span></li>
<li abp="22"><span abp="3144" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">helicopter is the only public transport to some islands</span></li>
<li abp="23"><span abp="3145" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">they have a saying which goes 'if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes' because the weather is so changeable</span></li>
<li abp="24"><span abp="3146" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">the architecture is crazy cool</span></li>
<li abp="25"><span abp="3147" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">nothing opens in the mornings on Sundays</span></li>
</ul>
<div abp="26">
<span abp="3148" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="27">
<span abp="3149" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Torshavn puts on their annual Cultural Night on the first Friday of June which coordinated nicely with the marathon. Who said the Faroe Islands wasn't a happening place? Local drunks and too many prams just like any other public event in the UK. The marathon started at 1pm on the Saturday. This suited us fine as we spent the morning relaying between the bed and bathroom due to a Japanese dinner the night before that may have involved some undercooked scallops. </span></div>
<div abp="27">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<table abp="2866" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2867">
<tr abp="2868"><td abp="2869" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2870" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3f0Ofb82VUULI7ekyiRWmOpFPEwlzTC1eLUjUFUDr4zp8J3XYN2PW6jUENpqDeVAJ0ytwLuJAmughMTMpXvlLot6rpREz_vt8wE2_1XmJog8lLQpQx1AP8HozF98_CsrqRIHMCA1IICbd/s1600/start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3150" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3151" border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="526" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3f0Ofb82VUULI7ekyiRWmOpFPEwlzTC1eLUjUFUDr4zp8J3XYN2PW6jUENpqDeVAJ0ytwLuJAmughMTMpXvlLot6rpREz_vt8wE2_1XmJog8lLQpQx1AP8HozF98_CsrqRIHMCA1IICbd/s400/start.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2872"><td abp="2873" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3152" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Torshavn Marathon start line</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="27">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="28">
<span abp="3153" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="29">
<span abp="3154" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On the start line we already had fans. We met Anne and Balfour from Dunbar while waiting at the airport for the bus (it was a picturesque journey from the airport to Torshavn) and they have come to watch the marathon start. Both the half and full marathon start at the same time but once we have crossed the start I leave Scott trailing in my dust with the hope of nabbing myself a Faroese fella if it looks like I am visiting on my own. Although I am secretly pleased that he is pacing himself. </span></div>
<div abp="30">
<span abp="3155" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="31">
<span abp="3156" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The first 8km involves a lap and a half of the town and then heads out along the water before the course turns back on itself. Entrants have come from all over the world; Mexico, Australia, USA, loads from various places in Europe and one mega babe from New Zealand. What a lass she is. There is not a lot of chat going on but I am feeling a friendly vibe. The town loop is undulating but nothing that bothers me this early on. Some people are walking them already. I hope that they are running the half marathon, otherwise it is going to be a long day. </span></div>
<div abp="31">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="31">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To our left are a line of elderly people in wheelchairs holding Faroe Island flags with their carers. All the runners give them a big cheer. </span></div>
<div abp="32">
<span abp="3157" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<table abp="179" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="180">
<tr abp="181"><td abp="182" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="183" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKt-sVt85TK12llyLAnWtV93CXASWPDPwBNdTd-Tt947d3HHKGpx3pLPwTveYkiSq7BfZuXnRhUO8zQp3Zrfe9Gnjo3Rh1LPrM7KYq8tM7sCBYCfCv_Yo21vxveqE2eUdpxG4ibk8umBH/s1600/torshavnmarathon-hill-profile.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3158" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3159" border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKt-sVt85TK12llyLAnWtV93CXASWPDPwBNdTd-Tt947d3HHKGpx3pLPwTveYkiSq7BfZuXnRhUO8zQp3Zrfe9Gnjo3Rh1LPrM7KYq8tM7sCBYCfCv_Yo21vxveqE2eUdpxG4ibk8umBH/s400/torshavnmarathon-hill-profile.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="185"><td abp="186" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2734">
<span abp="3160" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Torshavn Marathon course profile</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3161" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3162" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At around 9km we start to head down a long descent. I turn to the identical German guys on either side of me and ask if we will be running back up this. Their answer is '<em abp="3163">yes, so pace yourself little girl.'</em> I make a mental note to look forward to this climb about 37km in. And to pace myself like a... well, something that is good at pacing and to not be passed in the second half. We all settle in, waterfalls to our left, sheep and water to our right. Eventually the first half marathoner makes his way back towards us, flanked by cyclists who cheer for all of the runners still heading out. The lead runner gives a smile and thumbs up as we clap and cheer. He's powering up a big hill as we cruise down.</span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3164" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<table abp="3043" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3044">
<tr abp="3045"><td abp="3046" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="3047" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5m4t0H1CHw1Uc4jyoUSZpCQgOJF1h4K484gO7QLHdF65Y7Ylxj7YJG7g6MvUgjllJbNk6mqwiF8nxN2UwWdRuHZScfD2-OnKi861jkUN1rk4cLrpmytX2Yz0vChr3ZpU8pV5K0yXPfCn_/s1600/hill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3165" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3166" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5m4t0H1CHw1Uc4jyoUSZpCQgOJF1h4K484gO7QLHdF65Y7Ylxj7YJG7g6MvUgjllJbNk6mqwiF8nxN2UwWdRuHZScfD2-OnKi861jkUN1rk4cLrpmytX2Yz0vChr3ZpU8pV5K0yXPfCn_/s400/hill.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="3049"><td abp="3050" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3167" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A hill on the marathon course, photo by Faroephoto</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="3051" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="3168" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="3052" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="3169" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Excitement builds as more half marathon runners come towards us. There are water stations approximately every 4km and I have only accidently grabbed an energy drink once with all the language confusion. As we are running along the coast, we are all being careful where we place our empty bottles and cups. Throw to hard to the right and they'll be in the ocean! </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I have already become pals with the photographer on the motorbike. He's aware of my best angles. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3170" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">They said that this race was hilly and they were right. My legs can still easily run up the hills but other people are slowing. I clap and cheer for each runner as they come towards me; <em abp="3171">well done</em>, <em abp="3172">go go</em>, <em abp="3173">good running</em>. I was even saying <em abp="3174">bravo</em> for a while. It's nice to see so many Faroe Island race vests. All the runners acknowledge my cheers for them; much politer than the London Marathoners! </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3175" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At the half marathon turn around point, the marshal is excited that I am running the full. Sweden or Norway? she asks. I tell her New Zealand but she asks me the same question on the way back so she must have been a little confused. Nonetheless, she was a joyful face and it was to be a long, lonely day marshalling. Once the half marathon runners had turned around, there were not many of us left on the road. There is a big hill however. On the up side, it will be downhill on the way back. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I run next to a young guy who doesn't seem to keen to let me past. I decide he might want to chat and offer him some sweeties I have stored in my crop top. He's not keen for the sweeties or the chat. Ahead I can see a group of runners together on the opposite side of the road. They have all stopped for a photo beside an impressive waterfall. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">By Faroe Island standards, the day is a scorcher. I have opted for arm warmers, which I should really roll down but cannot be bothered. Others are dropping layers off on the side of the road; they can collect them on their way back. Given that it rained all the other days we were in the islands, we are lucky today. Nothing like a famous Faroe Island tan. I can see runners who are ahead of me across the bay. There is someone in a vibrant orange top that I will see if I can catch on the way back. Just for a bit of entertainment. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<table abp="3057" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3058">
<tr abp="3059"><td abp="3060" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="3061" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTq05MFlogUFl98E3Fd8KqytfynlIPwwDEazK7jSd90xTWUsaCxnToIBAzKi7BkjmfU9Fjgiig3CFFhoGqvJlA58DXkJYzKFGRKD0V5AdQiPXZfzsNW9PICg-Y5QaaL_fg1Y6Pg23E2d4o/s1600/sheep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3176" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3177" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTq05MFlogUFl98E3Fd8KqytfynlIPwwDEazK7jSd90xTWUsaCxnToIBAzKi7BkjmfU9Fjgiig3CFFhoGqvJlA58DXkJYzKFGRKD0V5AdQiPXZfzsNW9PICg-Y5QaaL_fg1Y6Pg23E2d4o/s400/sheep.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="3063"><td abp="3064" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3178" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">SHEEP! Photo by Faroephoto</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="3056" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="3179" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I giggle with a Swedish lady as we cross a cattle stop. Bambi on ice, Bambi on cattle stops. I have small feet, I am scared they will get trapped! We are at about the 18km mark now and I have been taking it easy so decide to accelerate a little. It has been flat and I am enjoying the sunshine. I pass quite a few people over the next 10km. There are a couple of guys adding to the waterfall as I pass. There is also one guy running in a full paramedic / first aid attire. I think that something must have happened and ask how far he needs to run. Maybe, this is part of the Torshavn Marathon first aid requirement; to have someone on course running. But no, he's running the whole course like that as an entrant. I bet he wishes it wasn't as high as 14 degrees today. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3180" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At the 20-something mark, the first marathon runners are coming towards me. They all respond to my enthusiasm; some with their own enthusiasm, most with pleasant surprise. Quite a few <em abp="3181">'oh, thank you very much, you too.</em>' I probably look like a talking sheep with all my hair. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3182" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<table abp="2820" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2821">
<tr abp="2822"><td abp="2823" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2824" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4URPKTHWKq8wI5cvcZ0zoSa4nGm1HczabZPC-U9cdWX-xARNY8d5DJrPJcRJgAdT3Pny-ANaffyEc5YaKSx9jzSMQQXM7L_sWftCEI_8s_dYJKBKL_4_2fbx-xGNHgOzEmNOPedFa-vib/s1600/Church_of_Kaldbak%252C_Faroe_Islands.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3183" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3184" border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4URPKTHWKq8wI5cvcZ0zoSa4nGm1HczabZPC-U9cdWX-xARNY8d5DJrPJcRJgAdT3Pny-ANaffyEc5YaKSx9jzSMQQXM7L_sWftCEI_8s_dYJKBKL_4_2fbx-xGNHgOzEmNOPedFa-vib/s400/Church_of_Kaldbak%252C_Faroe_Islands.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2826"><td abp="2827" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3185" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Kaldbak Church, Faroe Islands</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2741" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="3186" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At 25km I reach the turnaround point. There is a wooden church with a grass roof. Gorgeous. I have half a banana to show my appreciation. I am powering past a number of people; still hooting and cheering. It is a party after all. Some runners are walking up the wee hill towards me. Quite a sensible decision as there are a number of monster climbs on the way back. I admire the sea birds in the bay and get on a high fiving mission with the runners coming towards me. Miss Congeniality award, here I come. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">More cattle stops. Water on the left now, waterfalls on the right. Unfortunately for orange top man, he has slowed considerably and I pass him much earlier than anticipated. Short-lived entertainment there. After about 28km, I won't see another runner going in the same direction as me for 7km. There are a few runners coming towards me. One old fella has only covered about the same distance as I have still left to run. I just hope he is having a good time and has packed himself a solid dinner. At 32km there is a hill. At 33km there is a bigger hill. I'm still ok, I can handle these. There is a strong headwind which means there is no respite on the downhills now. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3187" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><em abp="3188">All by myself... </em>that line, on repeat, in my head, for about half an hour. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3189" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Wahoo, photographer on a motorbike! Say SHEEP! </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<span abp="3190" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<table abp="2980" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2981">
<tr abp="2982"><td abp="2983" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2984" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPQEYcyJS2wuqEAGVGXJzFfDNzdxwQf8DXgWocCGc8hnE503iO9ptPgb5xMu6y6P93TWuW-ZVwdRMApBEgsPpfyrEkMO5j6eX91vYDqyXQ1Yu3rR1tFeEqQFJoySWhi8ZNQ7r-OKZMnNb/s1600/running.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3191" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3192" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPQEYcyJS2wuqEAGVGXJzFfDNzdxwQf8DXgWocCGc8hnE503iO9ptPgb5xMu6y6P93TWuW-ZVwdRMApBEgsPpfyrEkMO5j6eX91vYDqyXQ1Yu3rR1tFeEqQFJoySWhi8ZNQ7r-OKZMnNb/s400/running.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2986"><td abp="2987" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3193" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Photo by Faroephoto</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span abp="3194" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="33">
</div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3195" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Monster hill at 36km. There are now two runners ahead of me. One cramps and has to take a break halfway up. Arms pump, legs pump. I'll survive the hill, it's the wind that is a pain. Another climb at 37km. It's another long slog. I pass the second guy, we're both going to make it now. Five kilometres to go; that's the hills done. It has been hilly. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3196" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I start to overtake half marathon walkers. One girl is limping badly. We are heading back to the town. There is a short, sharp hill. What the?! I don't remember this being downhill when I ran out! I storm up in defiance. I say hi to my local sheep. Interestingly, many of the sheep are black or brown. I'll have difficulty explaining that to my children with Autism when I get back to Scotland. <em abp="3197">No, sheep are white Antonia, don't be silly. They are white in all the pictures. Sheep ARE only white. Except for Baa Baa Black Sheep. He's black. Oh, I see your photo, that must be Baa Baa Black Sheep and his family! </em>Teaching fail. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span abp="3198" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<table abp="3199" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3200">
<tr abp="3201"><td abp="3202" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="3203" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNQvK23XMpaib_qu7HMeh-vUzoqLzXTLNAmnZZpSgv0qe8yLCAiedPlynbhHmJX_3itazl0FLD_ex1ZSnFr9c8o15i357KrdZwppZ4iGzXmhsAlueXDzRVtdr_1420SQHIrOqOgcKpgvv/s1600/finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3204" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3205" border="0" data-original-height="881" data-original-width="1175" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNQvK23XMpaib_qu7HMeh-vUzoqLzXTLNAmnZZpSgv0qe8yLCAiedPlynbhHmJX_3itazl0FLD_ex1ZSnFr9c8o15i357KrdZwppZ4iGzXmhsAlueXDzRVtdr_1420SQHIrOqOgcKpgvv/s400/finish.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="3206"><td abp="3207" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3208" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Finishing</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Kilometre markers are counting down. I'm in the middle of the town but I'm not quite sure where to go... turn past a grass-roofed house and there is the finish! Hurrah! Lots of people sitting in the sunshine cheering. I've just run my slowest time in seven years but I am pleased. Hurrah! Great times indeed. Now, for a beer and some fish soup... Local club members have also made cakes but unfortunately I still feel a little unwell from those scallops... </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I came first young lady, second lady including the older birds and 11th overall (which is more exciting). I came home with three medals; thankfully checked in bags are included with Atlantic Airways so the weight was not an issue! A nice aspect of the out and back course is that you get to see all the other runners in the field. It was nice to watch the other runners finish; blue t-shirt guy, German guys, orange t-shirt guy, Swedish lady, Paramedic Man... We are all on first name basis now of course. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Scott paced himself well to run a good ten minutes faster than he predicted for the half marathon; just a few weeks into training for the Loch Ness Marathon. </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Celebrations post run were delayed for a few hours while I hung about in the apartment with my head down the toilet. When we found a pub full of locals later, they entertained us by being very enthusiastic football fans. Even the bus ride back to the airport on the Sunday had a jovial atmosphere. So how were the Faroe Islands? Brilliant fun. The marathon? Well-organised and also brilliant fun. It's the clear choice for anyone's anniversary! </span></div>
<div abp="33">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<span abp="3209" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<table abp="3065" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3066">
<tr abp="3067"><td abp="3068" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="3069" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwEw7HHWKvwZWWq_441iI374MHCPUuvLz9Mnb01Ua1XxMwLCwZ1CSHJLv1QtgRzit3ivYN4VrDlFPsOJ6-KHY1OTQqbxIjy4xG_34AZYszetMLv7Wcmio6KaxOkYgFO8a104-0y9dq6-tE/s1600/first.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3210" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3211" border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwEw7HHWKvwZWWq_441iI374MHCPUuvLz9Mnb01Ua1XxMwLCwZ1CSHJLv1QtgRzit3ivYN4VrDlFPsOJ6-KHY1OTQqbxIjy4xG_34AZYszetMLv7Wcmio6KaxOkYgFO8a104-0y9dq6-tE/s400/first.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="3071"><td abp="3072" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3212" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">1st on this podium...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span abp="3213" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<table abp="3073" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3074">
<tr abp="3075"><td abp="3076" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="3077" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKKQWUkDu8vQxnOV0JUHSVVYDNPYSHvhCgG1SVEo3BPIE_q3J3e_W4mO-vuLAolJPlesiSvdT0BWSJjCWM_Ou_tsawbziKxBl3suKp4cX8-CKsto2ApVrxIVCGxOriRe0ZxCbpkl9tsqdI/s1600/second.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3214" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="3215" border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="792" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKKQWUkDu8vQxnOV0JUHSVVYDNPYSHvhCgG1SVEo3BPIE_q3J3e_W4mO-vuLAolJPlesiSvdT0BWSJjCWM_Ou_tsawbziKxBl3suKp4cX8-CKsto2ApVrxIVCGxOriRe0ZxCbpkl9tsqdI/s400/second.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="3079"><td abp="3080" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3216" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...but second on this one!</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="33">
</div>
<div abp="3217" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="3218" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sv6CV1pbc53kQXlzAQAeneYH8wPh7YfvLyXqjqX9O6__PxzlkMmjEieuqJXH9UbEp3FcLsCsefpTJzUXMLE565i2PIuBQOj5WRXxx_XY51OnIqmCJg5Yf1sr697suCTCkwPZkko9Zl3i/s1600/boat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="3219" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="489" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sv6CV1pbc53kQXlzAQAeneYH8wPh7YfvLyXqjqX9O6__PxzlkMmjEieuqJXH9UbEp3FcLsCsefpTJzUXMLE565i2PIuBQOj5WRXxx_XY51OnIqmCJg5Yf1sr697suCTCkwPZkko9Zl3i/s400/boat.jpg" width="325" /></a></div>
<div abp="3220">
</div>
<div abp="3221" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="3222" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24GQL3CCGbH52y9Ubx188y_c69-_4skSJJaJnodUI4H60L6a6Vm3GeJX5xDzzllh3RfXTxu30yLUfsAtQGpdHilRjHpS988u3LxfN8vp9ih4X1cpb82-6zCI2YclAsFxk7SqR0MlL250b/s1600/lighthouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="3223" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24GQL3CCGbH52y9Ubx188y_c69-_4skSJJaJnodUI4H60L6a6Vm3GeJX5xDzzllh3RfXTxu30yLUfsAtQGpdHilRjHpS988u3LxfN8vp9ih4X1cpb82-6zCI2YclAsFxk7SqR0MlL250b/s400/lighthouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div abp="33">
<em abp="2830"></em> </div>
<div abp="33">
</div>
<div abp="33">
</div>
<div abp="33">
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0Tórshavn, Faroe Islands62.007864 -6.790981600000009261.948257 -6.9523431000000091 62.067471 -6.6296201000000092tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-76094077904873602882017-05-06T21:01:00.000+01:002017-11-13T02:42:32.538+00:00London Marathon 2017<h3 abp="860" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</h3>
<h3 abp="861">
<span abp="862" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Creating a Road Runner</span></h3>
<div abp="861">
</div>
<div abp="861">
</div>
<div abp="863">
</div>
<div abp="865">
<div abp="2122">
<span abp="866" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Ohh, you like running?! Have you done London? Anyone who partakes in the <em abp="867">one-foot-in-front-of-the-other</em> sport called running knows the London question. For the record; the London Marathon is not actually any longer than any other marathon. Statistically, by average running times, London is probably the slowest flat marathon in the world. I have a Statistics degree so I am sure I could jiggle some numbers around to make that true. So I was never that interested in entering until I got sold on how many people would be out cheering. I love a good cheer. And the <em abp="868">good for age</em> time requirement for women is considerably more lenient than the men's so I got an automatic place and did not have to go through the ballot tragedy. I could have gone for a championship place but you had to be a member of a club and you could not run in costume. They were two sacrifices that I was not willing to make.</span></div>
<div abp="2126">
<span abp="866" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2128" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="869">
</div>
<div abp="871">
<div abp="2131">
<span abp="872" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Then came the costume drama. With the encouragement of a friend; the idea of running as a three dimensional bird came about. Then life went a bit crazy and I did not decide to come back to the UK until the end of February which left little time to make a costume with my poor sewing skills. There were also the trips to Bologna, London and Iceland that were to hinder my weekend sewing availability (who cares about the actual running training)! So three dimensional went out, and bird stayed in. Initially it made sense to run as a Kiwi bird. However, the Kiwi is rather dull. Brown birds were then ruled out. My older sister has a long-standing disagreement with peacocks so they were out. I liked the idea of a flamingo but ultimately decided on Road Runner. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="873" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="874" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="875">
</div>
<table abp="877" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="878">
<tr abp="879"><td abp="880" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2140">
<a abp="881" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuYQh6cYo_vOfmVimsyEXAlBbFgXI6pAAqELomCGD9EsGDHTxowIJa5i-dCUKwcqj6G9Sc5iuc4kFAry8gOd-9enI3cmcMWR893S7EzUqX00tMmr9T21uckFfSDme3sALD2ByqD6uFpqf/s1600/coyote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="882" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img abp="883" border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuYQh6cYo_vOfmVimsyEXAlBbFgXI6pAAqELomCGD9EsGDHTxowIJa5i-dCUKwcqj6G9Sc5iuc4kFAry8gOd-9enI3cmcMWR893S7EzUqX00tMmr9T21uckFfSDme3sALD2ByqD6uFpqf/s400/coyote.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="884"><td abp="885" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2146">
<span abp="886" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As a child I went to the USA and met Wile E Coyote himself. He foresaw my future as a Road Runner and drew up this plan to capture me back in in 1997. </span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="887">
</div>
<div abp="889">
</div>
<div abp="890" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a abp="891" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQO8EWJsXoSQsiVvxjebp58CBPjaprQ0je-SjjKkaobDsM_KycwartBlHqDBcKe4xtEUN6oaYiivWVIiwC1xprphWinScQO4GYhvdX5kY5k_xvMYq_OR2jME6rk4L43BF8DnIe2Le5yI2X/s1600/waist+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img abp="892" border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQO8EWJsXoSQsiVvxjebp58CBPjaprQ0je-SjjKkaobDsM_KycwartBlHqDBcKe4xtEUN6oaYiivWVIiwC1xprphWinScQO4GYhvdX5kY5k_xvMYq_OR2jME6rk4L43BF8DnIe2Le5yI2X/s200/waist+start.jpg" width="200" /></a><a abp="893" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI3nOgSlFF35F_0lsPVZdhns6ElraemERq3BkJuFAPejX5b-I0JJTXyuvB5akt3LspXr1UMp3SNMx-vK4MGOh6DzfimooQWrR2RD1RyWOhyFZIb08pR_ejE80t_td4LMVaqzm0gBU9v6l0/s1600/material.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img abp="894" border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI3nOgSlFF35F_0lsPVZdhns6ElraemERq3BkJuFAPejX5b-I0JJTXyuvB5akt3LspXr1UMp3SNMx-vK4MGOh6DzfimooQWrR2RD1RyWOhyFZIb08pR_ejE80t_td4LMVaqzm0gBU9v6l0/s200/material.jpg" width="200" /></a><span abp="895" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">After many Google searches and YouTube demonstrations I managed to make a tutu and weave in some ostrich feathers. I did not feel the desire to make a You Tube video of my own. So many talents, so little time. A client kindly donated the hat and Scott (the sewing power that he is) sewed on the eyes, beak and hat feather. I am sure friends thoroughly enjoyed the Snap Chat updates of my progress. The costume was taken for a test run at 6am one morning in Edinburgh. Scott assumed this meant running up a quiet street once or twice. I had other ideas; the gym or local park. No other runners batted an eyelid as I checked out the possible chaff areas in the costume as the sun rose. A lesson I learned was that I would need to Vaseline my arms to prevent tulle chaffage. </span><span abp="896" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Both meep meep and beep beep are down as official languages for Road Runner; I went with meep meep. See my Instagram @petitefeetrunaway for a video of the practice run. </span></div>
<div abp="897">
</div>
<div abp="898">
</div>
<h3 abp="899">
<span abp="900" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Navigating London</span></h3>
<div abp="901" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="902" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQO8EWJsXoSQsiVvxjebp58CBPjaprQ0je-SjjKkaobDsM_KycwartBlHqDBcKe4xtEUN6oaYiivWVIiwC1xprphWinScQO4GYhvdX5kY5k_xvMYq_OR2jME6rk4L43BF8DnIe2Le5yI2X/s1600/waist+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span abp="903" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></a><br /></div>
<div abp="904">
<div abp="2165">
<span abp="905" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Registration for the marathon was at Excel, in East London. The start line for the marathon is in Greenwich in South East London. The finish line for the marathon is in Central London. We were staying in West London. Fortunately we opted for the 06:20am train from Edinburgh on the Saturday morning which gave us time to endure the nightmare that is mass registration. The week prior I had a minor panic when I realised that I had never been sent a registration letter, the very item you need to register. Fortunately, they got one in the post to me pronto and my costume making was not in vain. Hilariously, there was also a Games Convention on at the registration venue. It made for a nice game of <em abp="906">what are they here for?</em></span></div>
<div abp="2168">
<span abp="905" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><em abp="906"><br abp="2171" /></em></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="907">
</div>
<div abp="910">
<div abp="2174">
<em abp="911"><span abp="912" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Avoid registering on the Saturday if you can (we couldn't) as it was rammed. Registration is like an arcade; flashing lights, terrible music and the feeling of being pinballed around the families who have decided to take their granny and young children there for a day out to pick up daddy's registration number. </span></em></div>
<div abp="2177">
<em abp="911"><span abp="912" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br abp="2180" /></span></em></div>
</div>
<div abp="913">
</div>
<div abp="916">
<div abp="2183">
<span abp="917" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">The young girl scanning my racing chip was super friendly and efficient. Possibly too efficient as my chip did not end up working during the event! </span></div>
<div abp="2185">
<span abp="917" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br abp="2187" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="918">
</div>
<table abp="920" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="921">
<tr abp="922"><td abp="923" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2193">
<a abp="924" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj22Q1PcZyLmkNGTW7gufdHhBUrd2Z9WBSxE-MKRUZSVHeG-2j4bIVQkaMR-1EX1ksIOUiS5Ow41GN6Zkc0iZ365a-zdu2xs0CY_hvDC9qHcRzwIBaQFQGVSWeaCwv3-17kxiOlhG_Jkcut/s1600/train.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="925" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj22Q1PcZyLmkNGTW7gufdHhBUrd2Z9WBSxE-MKRUZSVHeG-2j4bIVQkaMR-1EX1ksIOUiS5Ow41GN6Zkc0iZ365a-zdu2xs0CY_hvDC9qHcRzwIBaQFQGVSWeaCwv3-17kxiOlhG_Jkcut/s400/train.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="926"><td abp="927" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2198">
<span abp="928" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Riding the tube as Road Runner</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="929">
</div>
<table abp="930" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="931">
<tr abp="932"><td abp="933" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2205">
<a abp="934" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyiUvEQIfUFccScSpW5z0BCwiw_2NACZXQog61GVB9nSGg7vbCUj16VV958ghysXsJEeIZT5_Nw1icy74pFlpk_Bngay9L9ryFtW7vnAyA-cDEx2wq0sYtHnCt3DAtO743hPzEkYg9bld/s1600/number.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="935" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyiUvEQIfUFccScSpW5z0BCwiw_2NACZXQog61GVB9nSGg7vbCUj16VV958ghysXsJEeIZT5_Nw1icy74pFlpk_Bngay9L9ryFtW7vnAyA-cDEx2wq0sYtHnCt3DAtO743hPzEkYg9bld/s400/number.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="936"><td abp="937" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2210">
<span abp="938" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Meep meep</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="939">
</div>
<div abp="940">
</div>
<h3 abp="942">
<span abp="943" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To the Green Start</span></h3>
<div abp="944">
<div abp="2217">
<span abp="945" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In classic London form, half of the tube stations were closed on the weekend. The marathon gave out brilliant instructions as to where each runner should go depending on their coloured race start. We changed somewhere for the Maze Hill train. We all played a wonderful game of sardines and I tickled other runners with my feathers. Hoards of red start runners got off at Greenwich station, leaving us greenies to take seats before getting off at Maze Hill and walking half the marathon route to the start line. </span></div>
<span abp="945" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<span abp="945" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2670" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2YbkQCXEuqI1z7CmkvSyoMNLtb9uOZ5sBpav2iNTD9at4qsIQ369U2tzs4ExpAlch27ohv7ovvjm7H985oove4DiGhrNvCkFUR7nOFB5LVF27DnC-1IdQSuhs0wB2np8xE0F2byBaqwM/s1600/do+not+pee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2671" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2YbkQCXEuqI1z7CmkvSyoMNLtb9uOZ5sBpav2iNTD9at4qsIQ369U2tzs4ExpAlch27ohv7ovvjm7H985oove4DiGhrNvCkFUR7nOFB5LVF27DnC-1IdQSuhs0wB2np8xE0F2byBaqwM/s400/do+not+pee.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I won't pee but please provide the runners with more port-a-loos! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div abp="944">
<span abp="945" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="945" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="946">
</div>
<div abp="948">
<div abp="2224">
<span abp="949" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">As I arrived into the Green Start the announcer was calling for us to put our kit bags into the trucks which were to be transported to the start. There were many people unable to fit on the train so I don't think they would have managed to get to the start in time for the bag drop. After accidently joining the urinal queue for some time I then spent another 40 minutes in the unisex toilet queue. With five minutes to start, I exited the port-a-loo and felt rather sorry for the huge queue still waiting. </span></div>
<div abp="2226">
<span abp="949" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br abp="2228" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="950">
</div>
<div abp="951">
<div abp="2231">
<span abp="952" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Strategically the Green Start is the start for the z-list celebrities and the average good-for-age runners. The z-list celebrities get left alone on this start line as no club marathon runner has any idea who any of them are. </span></div>
<div abp="2233">
<span abp="952" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br abp="2235" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="953">
</div>
<div abp="955">
<div abp="2238">
<span abp="956" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">The shuffle for pens begins. I am supposed to be in pen three but none of the pen three runners are able to get to the elusive pen three. I imagined the pens to be in a line but instead they snake around. Pen four is the only pen guarded by marshals who won't let anyone through to access their pen. So pens 1, 2, 3 , 7, 8 and 9 are all hanging about next to the start with nowhere to go. Once the race starts we all clamber through the barriers. I suspect golden pen four was the last to cross the start amongst the chaos. </span></div>
<div abp="2240">
<span abp="956" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br abp="2242" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="957">
</div>
<table abp="959" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="960">
<tr abp="961"><td abp="962" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2248">
<a abp="963" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKT3noKRYYGtDn4dNGXqAkDIpAUvOklargX7DD4CMOAydRER7ng_uSsDSaYT59vJvuGqRYSCRT8bJRyXq6YqjS-GVWxs4vMOONnTF65p2thSHhOmMSXII_8Ml5-ejP7f2tc2DdckpW0E2/s1600/start.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="964" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKT3noKRYYGtDn4dNGXqAkDIpAUvOklargX7DD4CMOAydRER7ng_uSsDSaYT59vJvuGqRYSCRT8bJRyXq6YqjS-GVWxs4vMOONnTF65p2thSHhOmMSXII_8Ml5-ejP7f2tc2DdckpW0E2/s400/start.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="965"><td abp="966" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2253">
<span abp="967" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">London Marathon Start Line</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="968">
</div>
<div abp="969">
</div>
<h3 abp="971">
<span abp="972" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Running With a City</span></h3>
<div abp="973">
<div abp="2260">
<span abp="974" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Despite the disorganised pens, the Green Start is not too large and it is easy enough to get across the line after a few minutes. I'm not worried about pace and just relax into the jog. Sandra Beattie comes floating past, having colour coordinated her outfit with mine. She's a gem like that. In an unprecedented move, I have a loose bun in today rather than the twin braids. A lesson learned during the costume trial run was that my long hair pushes my tail feathers to the side so I had to tie it up. This is why trying out your costume is so important before race day. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="975">
</div>
<div abp="2263">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="977">
<div abp="2266">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Whacking out a bunch of high fives to excited children (and adults) I don't worry about passing anyone and meep meep along. Ignoring runners shout at each other as they worry about being four seconds off their pace, I wave at all my fans who have gathered on the course and try and strike up conversations. <span abp="978" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Many running clubs have the name Road Runner in them. This excited me and initially I did a lot of road runner related cheering to them. Unfortunately, the club runners were all depressed during the event and failed to return the cheers.</span> Potential research project; Depression in Club Runners During Fun Runs. </span></div>
<div abp="2269">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br abp="2271" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="2272">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span>
</div>
<div abp="979">
</div>
<div abp="2275">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
<table abp="980" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="981">
<tr abp="982"><td abp="983" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2281">
<a abp="984" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NqsiIrL3qiK5S9U-QS-6gyDJD_E79bb9GwASmcnkowh7jopnlffOTh2nbDqxD_Jh-IZf4cWBSSc3EpmjiUwbg-jXMqE-wNAWijmGMByAkCNNOtHhRzaBqADiTMoRyT-XBEMUKr4MpOnw/s1600/people.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="985" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NqsiIrL3qiK5S9U-QS-6gyDJD_E79bb9GwASmcnkowh7jopnlffOTh2nbDqxD_Jh-IZf4cWBSSc3EpmjiUwbg-jXMqE-wNAWijmGMByAkCNNOtHhRzaBqADiTMoRyT-XBEMUKr4MpOnw/s400/people.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="986"><td abp="987" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2286">
Runners, runners everywhere</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></div>
<div abp="988">
</div>
<div abp="2288">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span>
</div>
<div abp="989">
<div abp="2291">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">The London Marathon takes about 46,000 runners. That is the same size as the city I grew up in. Yes, it is a city. It has a cathedral. So that is how that works. After three miles, the Greenies joined with the Blue Start. There was no drama in this and I was excited at the prospect of seeing more costumes as costumes were a bit thin on the ground at the Green Start.</span></div>
<div abp="2293">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br abp="2295" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="2296">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span>
</div>
<div abp="990">
</div>
<div abp="2299">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span>
</div>
<div abp="991">
<div abp="2302">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">As we run downhill on a straight bit of road, I can see a sea of runners ahead. All I can see are heads bobbing. It is amazing. I exclaim my thoughts out loud. The runners remain silent. Mostly I run on the edges so that I can wave to the crowd and high five all my dedicated supporters. Children yell things such as; <em abp="992">go duck, quack quack, it's Donald,</em> and <em abp="993">go birdy</em>! I wonder the last time Road Runner was on television. Women typically yelled <em abp="994">love the tutu</em> and <em abp="995">go fairy!</em> For some miles, I was surprised to find an actual fairy running behind me so perhaps I was not being cheered for at all. Mostly it was the men who recognised me for who I truly was and gave me a <em abp="996">meep meep</em>!</span></div>
<div abp="2309">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span> </div>
</div>
<div abp="2311">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span><br />
<div abp="998">
<div abp="2314">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Scott was looking to give me a cheer at about the 10km mark but I knew it would be hard for either of us to spot each other. I am unaware that my tracking chip is not working so Scott waits here for hours as the London Marathon app shows me as not having started the race yet so he does not know that I have already run past. The crowds near the Cutty Sark were huge. I was going crazy, they were going crazy. Supporters offered water, sweets and oranges. Sarah is getting a load of cheers. The crowd loves Sarah. For miles, I ran near Sarah. What a popular lassie. It was a shame that Sarah did not love the crowd back as much. I passed that bad attitude.</span></div>
<div abp="2316">
<br /></div>
</div>
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span><br />
<div abp="999">
</div>
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span><br />
<div abp="1000">
<div abp="2320">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">A Garmin beeps. As Road Runner, I take this as bird speak and meep meep back. This was not appreciated. Ahead I can see a dinosaur. I get my phone ready for a selfie and try to get myself next to the dinosaur. There is a guy running next to dinosaur and he really needs to speed up his pace so I can get my photo. He needs to stop hogging dinosaur. Eventually I get my opportunity. Here's Gemma the dinosaur who was more than happy to partake in a selfie! Congratulations to Gemma the dinosaur who set the Guinness World Record by running under four hours dressed in a full dinosaur suit! The happiest costume runner I met. </span></div>
</div>
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span><br />
<div abp="1001">
</div>
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span><br />
<div abp="1002">
</div>
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
<table abp="1003" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1004">
<tr abp="1005"><td abp="1006" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2327">
<a abp="1007" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-NGTwccUpqSvOHkxIdW6cM2oRtlgjztAIfoiEGVyXrqXeYg66L9Oy3sniwfwOSBWVI95gIdXy4He0BLHDzAaJ850Um8UNlAWqsRmdJiD34aRyLk5U_s5BBwFx6BkL8RgabAyn5S7J5ZJ/s1600/dinosaur+selfie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="1008" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-NGTwccUpqSvOHkxIdW6cM2oRtlgjztAIfoiEGVyXrqXeYg66L9Oy3sniwfwOSBWVI95gIdXy4He0BLHDzAaJ850Um8UNlAWqsRmdJiD34aRyLk5U_s5BBwFx6BkL8RgabAyn5S7J5ZJ/s400/dinosaur+selfie.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="1009"><td abp="1010" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2332">
Gemma the record setting dinosaur</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div abp="1011">
</div>
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span><div abp="1012">
<div abp="2335">
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Big skyscrapers appear at the end of the street and then the course takes a right turn onto the London Bridge! I do hope that today is not the day that London Bridge falls down. Although I did eat a large pizza last night. And if that was not enough excitement, the course does an out-and-back and we can now see the elite men running towards us! I stick tight to the edge tape getting crazy excited for all the elite runners. A few others join me in whooping and clapping for the runners as they zoom past. I cannot stop smiling. Being ignored by the elite runners as they focused on their big money wins was probably the highlight of the event for me.</span></div>
<div abp="2336">
<br /></div>
</div>
<span abp="976" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
<div abp="1013">
</div>
<div abp="1014">
<div abp="2339">
Runners start to slow down (or I start to speed up) before the half way mark. I pass a chef with a heavy-looking pot. I ask him if he could have carried a lighter one. He was not pleased. I pass a guy running his 50th marathon dressed in a Hawaiian shirt and matching shorts and pass on my congratulations. He's sweaty but happy. Then there is a cheerleader carrying pom poms that must be annoying by now. She is less than cheery. I pass a guy that seems to have a monkey's face near his crouch. Unusual. Some young boys are excited further up the course; they have just spotted a Spiderman. At one point the crowd start going wild; I think it is for me... only to get passed by Mr Tickle. We could have a tickle-off; my feathers and his arms but he seems on a mission. </div>
<div abp="2340">
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><br />
<div abp="2341">
</div>
<div abp="1016">
</div>
<div abp="1017">
<div abp="2344">
<span abp="1018" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sign/banner highlights included; </span></div>
</div>
<ul abp="1019">
<li abp="1020"><div abp="1021">
<div abp="2349">
<span abp="1022" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Shortcut this way (arrow pointing in opposite direction).</span></div>
</div>
</li>
<li abp="1023"><div abp="1024">
<div abp="2353">
<span abp="1025" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You think you're tired, my arms are knackered (after marshalling at the Scottish 5km Championships on Friday night and having to hold my arm up for about three minutes, I do appreciate their pain.</span></div>
</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div abp="2355">
<div abp="2356">
<span abp="2357" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">By the halfway mark people are starting to pull up on the sides; cramp, stomach aches, setting off far too fast... On the Thursday night before the marathon I ran the Seven Hills in Edinburgh. It takes a few hours. My friend Keith took us off-piste down Arthur's Seat and I keep slipping. Initially I worried that I was going to break a leg before the marathon. Then I decided that the London Marathon would be a good one to do with a broken leg as you could do it on crutches and still probably not be last. So I do hope that the runners who have pulled up to the side decide to walk to the finish anyway. There are possibly runners on the Red Start that are still waiting to cross the start line. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="2358">
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2360" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2361">
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2362" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2363">
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
<table abp="2364" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2365">
<tr abp="2366"><td abp="2367" style="text-align: center;"><img abp="2368" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgYsIcBf328rIh75hEdXrpOeFfpU71ARgN2yCfMxyqZuqj9LKnhyphenhyphen_vZP8SMAuBFLACY9xLYSfawUq2J_sE8CGtJ_H2XbTUw-eYAxK7-8e6hP7Vi0fryrIR9JRaeDDiA7UPmmpXnHsLnnT/s400/jamaica.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr abp="2369"><td abp="2370" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Jamaican bobsled team on their way to a world record</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div abp="2371" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span><div abp="2372">
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="2359" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
</div>
<div abp="2373">
<div abp="2374">
<span abp="2375" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At about mile 17 I pass the Jamaican bobsled team. Two guys, one (fake) bobsled. Full lycra suits and helmets. The crowd loved them. They will go on to set a Guinness World Record but I'd rather not have them beat me. So after sneaking a pic, I swiftly pass them and put a bit of a kick in so that they do not pass me back. I feel sorry for the people who had those two sprinting past them in the finishing straight. Hassled forever by your mates when they look at that finishing photo. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="2376">
<div abp="2377">
<span abp="2378" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2379" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="2380">
<div abp="2381">
<span abp="2382" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My crowd participation is interrupted briefly when I see Sandra ahead and swoop in for a quick chat. What was not discussed was that she was on for a flyer of a personal best! And then I hear my name yelled from the side lines! No, not chicken you fools; Antonia! It's my Kiwi turned London pal, Nicole! Whoop, whoop! And the way that it works is that once one person cheers for someone, it becomes contagious. So now I am getting screamed at all the way down the line. I am going wild with my arms waving about, expressing my thanks. Quite frankly though, I am struggling to keep on top of all these autographs that are being requested. </span></div>
<div abp="2383">
<span abp="2384" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2385" /></span>
<span abp="2386" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Um, is that another nun in front of me? </span></div>
<div abp="2387">
<span abp="2388" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2389" /></span>
<span abp="2390" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And now it is time for some weaving. I had been warned that I would spend trainer loads of energy weaving between runners for the first few miles. Because I was not trying to hit a certain pace, I didn't find myself weaving too much. But now that the runners are fading like a Borneo playground, I am am playing a game of <i abp="2391">dodge before you trip</i>. The people that are walking are reasonably good at moving to the side (which is great but also cramps my crowd access for high fives). It is the runners who are now the problem. The majority do not realise how slow they are now going. Clear the space folks, this Road Runner is flying through on a London high. </span></div>
<div abp="2392">
<span abp="2393" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2394" /></span>
<span abp="2395" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I give Lyndsey a holler as I pass. She's looking out for a barrier-jumping opportunity. She's got herself so thirsty, she's going to stop for a pint. I also pass the Blue 3:30 marker despite passing the Green 3:30 mile marker miles ago. So, were we late starting?! The balloon pace markers are a nightmare; runners unable to run a certain pass without all holding hands with balloon pace runner. </span></div>
<span abp="2397" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2396">
<br /></div>
<span abp="2397" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2396">
<span abp="2399" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I am hoping that I am in a thousand photos. I am that runner waving to every television camera. That runner giving you the thumbs up. I posed so well for a photo another supporter I knew assumed I had seen them when they took the cracking photo below! And that is how I was posing for everyone. </span></div>
<div abp="2396">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span> </div>
<table abp="2531" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2532">
<tr abp="2533"><td abp="2534" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2535" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzG9fGm8MCE7XfL1D_bUISjvrhiPqAOCFY89kjID6PR4GF764sB8ZkfVg31ZLOFw_Yh8DNdd5jTOTX_sO42epv10oe8o_h3CepUzR1jVTrb8uAeYUHKQ1El_yoVOPHBuH__DfahNvEMKz/s1600/big+smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2536" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzG9fGm8MCE7XfL1D_bUISjvrhiPqAOCFY89kjID6PR4GF764sB8ZkfVg31ZLOFw_Yh8DNdd5jTOTX_sO42epv10oe8o_h3CepUzR1jVTrb8uAeYUHKQ1El_yoVOPHBuH__DfahNvEMKz/s400/big+smile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2537"><td abp="2538" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2539" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mile 22 of the London Marathon</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2396">
</div>
<div abp="2400">
<span abp="2401" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2402" /></span>
<span abp="2403" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Then at 23 miles, I get a shout out from Ian Beattie. Whoop, whoop! A line of fans go insane. There is now a nun in front on me. And that fairy from earlier on. Sorry, have to pass, my tutu puts your tutu to shame. And it is a runner's birthday! He's put a wee note on the back of his running top! Which he had carried balloons too. I'm excited. He's obviously in for the celebration, that's why he's let others know of his special day. I give a loud cheer as I pass; I feel like it may even be my own birthday! It turns out, he's not up for the celebration any longer. Peaked too early perhaps? </span></div>
<div abp="2404">
<span abp="2405" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2406" /></span>
<span abp="2407" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There are runners sitting and laying along the edges of the track. The medics and marshals are all over them. None look too serious thankfully. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span> </div>
<div abp="2408">
<br />
<table abp="2602" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2603">
<tr abp="2604"><td abp="2605" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2606" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtuHnk4Lneq5Gr14G6EbOaaNAWcRbx2a-RAwq_ojkQTrhm7eoy36nffsOPLlIf8kXl5t3xmWeUZNS6dYUk77akQ3jrYhwHudjq89ukRyX0eOS731KhhHH8vqt-q1y3p7n133yPebAZ5C1/s1600/far+smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2607" border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtuHnk4Lneq5Gr14G6EbOaaNAWcRbx2a-RAwq_ojkQTrhm7eoy36nffsOPLlIf8kXl5t3xmWeUZNS6dYUk77akQ3jrYhwHudjq89ukRyX0eOS731KhhHH8vqt-q1y3p7n133yPebAZ5C1/s400/far+smile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2608"><td abp="2609" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2610" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Finishing straight of the London Marathon!</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span abp="2409" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span abp="2409" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span>
<span abp="2411" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">With 600 metres to go, I get some cheers from my right. It's Scott and Nicole! Scott realised that there was something wrong with my tracker and once Nicole got in touch to say that I was running (and not still at the start line, trying to be the last over the line like I usually am). For the finishing straight, the runners are incredibly lacklustre. We are all going to finish with a clock time of 3:29. The crowd on the other hand are still creating a riot. Not an actual riot, although London does love one. I am cruising on in and I cannot help but pass the lot of them. This will not make for great television viewing. The viewers love a committed finish! One girl glances sideways as I come past. She is not a happy runner. Her finishing photo will be ruined when Road Runner appears coming past. Ohhh, speaking of photos, there's an official camera! Cheesy smile and double thumbs up... </span></div>
<span abp="2413" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2412">
<br /></div>
<span abp="2413" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2412">
<span abp="2415" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My finishing video now looks like a moving screen capture as I pull the same pose and fail to look up at the video camera. The online viewers did not get to see this however, as a z-list celebrity finished at the same time. The marshals are trying to help the girl who is devastated she got beaten by Road Runner. </span></div>
<div abp="2412">
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My face hurts from smiling too much. My legs are fine. Did I crowd surf the marathon?</span> <br />
<br />
</div>
<table abp="2633" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2634">
<tr abp="2635"><td abp="2636" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2637" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmvVo4dR0WKQZY0H03FPFzSPqoGyW0LbCcMQxaM1_9SqYcObJ1GTBqcf2IGsSaz3UJ3KcsCC5O162UQ0vgrMs71hjsg4I1EsXby6dut9-z42RPIy1c0cwEYrEocyggv3Ewht2gPY3CfUl/s1600/trafalgar+square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2638" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmvVo4dR0WKQZY0H03FPFzSPqoGyW0LbCcMQxaM1_9SqYcObJ1GTBqcf2IGsSaz3UJ3KcsCC5O162UQ0vgrMs71hjsg4I1EsXby6dut9-z42RPIy1c0cwEYrEocyggv3Ewht2gPY3CfUl/s400/trafalgar+square.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2639"><td abp="2640" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2641" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Road Runner in Trafalgar Square</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2614">
</div>
<table abp="2642" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2643">
<tr abp="2644"><td abp="2645" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2646" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLisCWGRaDhiM4fdBUCfGSM_PRu2fYOwiePQ0nPu6f53CRisoZ2M9VZcvLcWTfeBYsgmpVAlIIaYt7J-MmmkSDHgzVy6nx1eDNNq_ZOkl6dPzC0hSr5nXgxJgpi8eujOpk0Vm46FnZTsf/s1600/medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2647" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLisCWGRaDhiM4fdBUCfGSM_PRu2fYOwiePQ0nPu6f53CRisoZ2M9VZcvLcWTfeBYsgmpVAlIIaYt7J-MmmkSDHgzVy6nx1eDNNq_ZOkl6dPzC0hSr5nXgxJgpi8eujOpk0Vm46FnZTsf/s400/medal.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2648"><td abp="2649" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2650" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">London Marathon medal</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2416">
<span abp="2417" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2418" /></span>
</div>
<h3 abp="2419">
<span abp="2420" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've Done London</span></h3>
<div abp="2421">
<span abp="2422" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2423" /></span>
<span abp="2424" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Scott informs me that he did not see too many costumes. However, there was a carrot who was absolutely storming it. Also, a lobster beat me by a good ten minutes. So runners, the majority of us can share that '<i abp="2425">I got beaten by a (insert ridiculous costume here)' </i>feeling. </span></div>
<div abp="2426">
<span abp="2427" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2428" /></span>
<span abp="2429" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">No, I did not get my medal handed to me by one of the royals. I had already finished a burger and had two pints before they bothered to show up and hand out five minutes of medals. I even wore my mental health charity headband that all runners were give. Sadly, some runners were too serious for this. I managed... and I already had a hat on! </span></div>
<div abp="2430">
<span abp="2431" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2432" /></span>
<span abp="2433" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Thanks to everyone who stood for hours out on the course to cheer on their friends, family and strangers. in some ways the London Marathon is like a free ride; the cheers carry you so far you don't really need to put too much effort into the running!</span></div>
<div abp="2434">
<span abp="2435" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2436" /></span>
<span abp="2437" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My advice for running London would be; unless you are an elite athlete, it is a fun run. Enjoy yourself, don't stress about your time and weaving. I have also embraced the post-London thing. Scott and I rode the train back to Edinburgh on the Sunday evening after the marathon; I was dressed as Road Runner and still wearing my medal. I wouldn't do that after an ultra but people will offer their congratulations if you have run London so go for it! </span></div>
<div abp="2438">
<span abp="2439" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2440" />And where was Wile E Coyote? Well, Scott realised that wearing a giant tube of dynamite on his back to support the London Marathon might get him arrested so decided against it! Costume ideas for next year welcome! </span></div>
<span abp="2442" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2441">
<br /></div>
<span abp="2442" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div abp="2380">
</div>
<div abp="2380">
<table abp="2672" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2673">
<tr abp="2674"><td abp="2675" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2676" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9U4JEwwIcS1Dl9q8L1E8_FNvhuKSbbJNnOeO6sGw8Io1Obk_wx_YSvLcKCHL-mf6iEBvK3Xcx6rD9NUhIbfuaWV7p2SKS0En8z-eFwAUkd8b_Ys5CebTnx3GtlcvqBenMGOjT3BMo8Y7/s1600/escalator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2677" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9U4JEwwIcS1Dl9q8L1E8_FNvhuKSbbJNnOeO6sGw8Io1Obk_wx_YSvLcKCHL-mf6iEBvK3Xcx6rD9NUhIbfuaWV7p2SKS0En8z-eFwAUkd8b_Ys5CebTnx3GtlcvqBenMGOjT3BMo8Y7/s400/escalator.jpg" width="380" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2678"><td abp="2679" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2680" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Road Runner playing on escalators with Nicole</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div abp="2441">
</div>
<h3 abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">All the Funny Stats</span></h3>
<div abp="2444">
</div>
<div abp="2444">
</div>
<div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was given an official time of 3:25. It's no world record (or would it have been...)</span></div>
<div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The stats are funny; </span></div>
<div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<ul>
<li><div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In the first 32km I passed 4440 people and 365 passed me. Given that it only took me three minutes to get across the start line and I started earlier than I should have because my race entry time was much faster, soooo many people went off crazy fast! </span></div>
</li>
<li><div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In the last 7km I passed 788 people and eight passed me. Work out these stats by kilometre. </span></div>
</li>
<li><div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I beat 80% of men. Currently getting an ab workout from the laughter. </span></div>
</li>
<li><div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Overall I was 5461st out of 33933. All that tells us is that there were a lot of non starters or non finishers. </span></div>
</li>
<li><div abp="2444">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">4% of women were ahead of me. Go the ladies!! Assuming that was the entire elite field right?</span> </div>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 abp="2444">
</h3>
<h3 abp="2444">
<span abp="2445" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Help, My Chip Didn't Work!</span></h3>
<div abp="2446">
<span abp="2447" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2448" /></span>
<span abp="2449" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Never fear, I emailed them the same day and within a week they had not only given me a chip time but also a whole bunch of splits. Whether they were actually my splits, I didn't know as I did not run with a watch. But it didn't really matter, I just wanted an official time so I can get an automatic entry for next year! Interestingly, the put two chips on the important folk so chip failure must be common. </span></div>
<div abp="2450">
<span abp="2451" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2452" /></span>
<span abp="2453" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If it happens to you, just email them with the following;</span></div>
<div abp="2454">
<span abp="2455" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">- your number</span></div>
<div abp="2456">
<span abp="2457" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">- start line</span></div>
<div abp="2458">
<span abp="2459" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">- finishing chute (left, middle, right etc.)</span></div>
<div abp="2460">
<span abp="2461" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">- clock finish time estimate</span></div>
<div abp="2462">
<span abp="2463" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">- any photos</span></div>
<div abp="2464">
<span abp="2465" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2466" /></span>
<span abp="2467" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I had a photo that I took before I crossed the start (because I was so excited) that showed the clock time and some photos that both myself and others had taken. If you zoomed in on the photos, you could see I was wearing my chip. </span></div>
<div abp="2468">
<div abp="2469">
<span abp="2470" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2471" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="2472">
<div abp="2473">
<span abp="2474" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2475" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="2476">
<table abp="2578" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2579">
<tr abp="2580"><td abp="2581" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2582" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcnXy3T1wK9rJJpmbJU1RgDPMioiZPCk6NJ7lFcxquXC5so39Fcfboz8mzITsdsjPCSaVNSyl51AFsFrRlkKVpt0dX0mOPS3CSpbBZikLY4yorOwA2o_cnCnB1_yhnqui7D5xOuOt5eWy/s1600/conic+hill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2583" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcnXy3T1wK9rJJpmbJU1RgDPMioiZPCk6NJ7lFcxquXC5so39Fcfboz8mzITsdsjPCSaVNSyl51AFsFrRlkKVpt0dX0mOPS3CSpbBZikLY4yorOwA2o_cnCnB1_yhnqui7D5xOuOt5eWy/s400/conic+hill.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2584"><td abp="2585" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2586" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A week later, I provided some quality support at the West Highland Fling race!</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2477">
<span abp="2478" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2479" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="2480">
<div abp="2481">
<span abp="2482" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2483" /></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="1026">
</div>
<div abp="1027">
<div abp="2486">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com1London, UK51.5073509 -0.1277582999999822351.1912379 -0.77320529999998222 51.8234639 0.51768870000001777tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-37137454400455639602017-03-19T14:02:00.001+00:002017-03-31T16:43:41.851+01:00Running the... Abel Tasman Coastal Track<div abp="2897" style="text-align: center;">
<h3 abp="2898" style="text-align: center;">
<span abp="2899" style="color: #3d85c6;"><span abp="2900" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2901"><br abp="2902" /></b></span><span abp="2903" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2904">Abel Tasman Coastal Track</b></span></span></h3>
<h3 abp="2905" style="text-align: center;">
<span abp="2906" style="color: #3d85c6;"><span abp="2907" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2908">New Zealand Great Walk</b></span></span></h3>
<h3 abp="2909" style="text-align: center;">
<span abp="2910" style="color: #3d85c6;"><span abp="2911" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2912">60km</b></span></span></h3>
<h3 abp="2913" style="text-align: center;">
<span abp="2914" style="color: #3d85c6;"><span abp="2915" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2916">Sunday 22 January 2016</b></span></span></h3>
</div>
<div abp="2917" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2918" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2919">
<div abp="1367">
<div abp="209">
<span abp="2920" style="color: #674ea7; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2921"><br abp="2922" /></b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2923" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2924" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2925">
<div abp="1374">
<div abp="217">
<span abp="2926" style="color: #351c75; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2927"><br abp="2928" /></b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2929" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2930" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2931">
<div abp="1381">
<div abp="225">
<span abp="2932" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2933">Weather Bomb</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2934" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2935" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2936">
<div abp="1387">
<div abp="232">
<span abp="2937" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2938" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2939" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="2940">
<div abp="1392">
<div abp="238">
<span abp="2941" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The plan was to run the 60km Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks. Easy track, doable in a day, and the parents had offered to drop me at one end and then pick me up at the other end. Logistics dreams are made of. On Saturday my father asked me if I had looked at the weather for the next day. I hadn't. He had. He thought the run possibly wasn't a good idea. As I am now Scottish; a bit of rain was not going to put me off. Wind? Well, I don't understand the speeds when they are in wind form. What does <i abp="2942">gale force</i> even mean? Who's this Gale and how strong is she really? And when describing wind to others why do I always lean to the left? So many questions; none of which will be answered on a solo 60km run. </span><span abp="2943" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2944" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2945" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="2946">
<div abp="1399">
<div abp="246">
<span abp="2947" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We drove from Nelson, dodging fallen trees, and arrived in Marahau for a 7am start. A fallen tree is better than a tree still contemplating a fall. It was pishing with rain. The adults asked if I was sure I wanted to do the run today. Yes, doesn't everyone want to run for hours by themselves in the rain?</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<table abp="2948" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2949">
<tr abp="2950"><td abp="2951" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2952">
<div abp="1406">
<div abp="254">
<a abp="2953" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHOylPAya_9T-dDPN1IDZ1meeiAFAXAoYAYFBUixtQMp6Lb0VYXmgr8tCf1mREECKbep7WCcMo8gXromQVsU7qPcPArrkJ10osktEQ5jdgrHGylqKJO2Y2y6YzWNCNPjMQheAjTRo9HNRT/s1600/20170122_065600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="2954" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img abp="2955" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHOylPAya_9T-dDPN1IDZ1meeiAFAXAoYAYFBUixtQMp6Lb0VYXmgr8tCf1mREECKbep7WCcMo8gXromQVsU7qPcPArrkJ10osktEQ5jdgrHGylqKJO2Y2y6YzWNCNPjMQheAjTRo9HNRT/s400/20170122_065600.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></div>
</div>
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2956"><td abp="2957" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="2958">
<div abp="1413">
<div abp="262">
<span abp="2959" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Marahau - start of the Abel Tasman trail</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2960" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="2961" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDnwpBx0hIc4XvCmX1jn4TxV7m2SGjKR-K8cvTj_jT9tWR7-B-hmEcvh5pGc8p5L_5SFYSLe3Lq0Z0g5UmZ0pRO63rYozbZxun5IUPBvcrIonFyu2ffiPSWrI1XV4MBRchvj5EDXCrHoL/s1600/20170122_065858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="2962" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDnwpBx0hIc4XvCmX1jn4TxV7m2SGjKR-K8cvTj_jT9tWR7-B-hmEcvh5pGc8p5L_5SFYSLe3Lq0Z0g5UmZ0pRO63rYozbZxun5IUPBvcrIonFyu2ffiPSWrI1XV4MBRchvj5EDXCrHoL/s400/20170122_065858.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<div abp="2963">
<div abp="1419">
<div abp="269">
<span abp="2964" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2965" /></span>
<span abp="2966" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span abp="2967" id="goog_993809495"></span><span abp="2968" id="goog_993809496"></span><br abp="2969" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2970" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2971" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2972">
<div abp="1429">
<div abp="280">
<span abp="2973" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2974"><br abp="2975" /></b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2976" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2977" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2978">
<div abp="1436">
<div abp="288">
<span abp="2979" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2980">Marahau to Bark Bay ~ 15km</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2981" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2982" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2983">
<div abp="1442">
<div abp="295">
<span abp="2984" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2985">07:00-10:00</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2986" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2987" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2988">
<div abp="1448">
<div abp="302">
<span abp="2989" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="2990">three hours</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2991" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="2992" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="2993">
<div abp="1454">
<div abp="309">
<span abp="2994" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="2995" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2996" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="2997">
<div abp="1459">
<div abp="315">
<span abp="2998" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A few weeks back I took the Wesley family to the Abel Tasman for a day trip. Boat in, small walk, lay on beach, boat out. A beautiful summer day and absolutely rammed with tourists. Too many people. Sadly, on those sorts of days, the Abel Tasman is a national park ruined. Fortunately, today the day tours were cancelled due to the WEATHER BOMB. With my rain jacket hood pulled tight I plodded through tracks that had turned to streams and admired the roaring waterfalls. Sometimes I was showered in the waterfalls as they crashed over the bridges and boardwalks. I was drenched within minutes. Within the first two hours I did not see a single person, and saw only two before the third hour was over. I'd put my money on them both being German. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2999" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3000">
<div abp="1463">
<div abp="320">
<span abp="3001" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3002" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3003" style="text-align: justify;">
<table abp="3004" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3005">
<tr abp="3006"><td abp="3007" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="3008">
<div abp="1472">
<div abp="330">
<a abp="3009" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ER4eKZ57fh8FPFoerBaTf43EGXvy6Ql4FvN6ABATdyAmrPJnc8qqSaC6PgJgMPlE0hyFJcHc60zNXx8Oyr1V1esg-JlV7n_DQZzT_8T2GC8rpccvjkFG91mmpKUFapVWKGZkmVzwXl8K/s1600/DSC_0364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3010" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ER4eKZ57fh8FPFoerBaTf43EGXvy6Ql4FvN6ABATdyAmrPJnc8qqSaC6PgJgMPlE0hyFJcHc60zNXx8Oyr1V1esg-JlV7n_DQZzT_8T2GC8rpccvjkFG91mmpKUFapVWKGZkmVzwXl8K/s400/DSC_0364.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="3011"><td abp="3012" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="3013">
<div abp="1478">
<div abp="337">
<span abp="3014" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Weather bomb</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="3023" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="3024" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="3279" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="3280" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1x3F6RvC3riN1JoLUys-_FyR69HcUuCo2xNEkquawk_hKhIb7zGCOmkH646D_4K8T6HuF9zObpmTZiuHySl0usRCPu1U2FVvY3FatVNXQ3E8Mf6O0_8tN6j_3D6MseUwILuOg5_P1-Xr-/s1600/waterfall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="3281" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1x3F6RvC3riN1JoLUys-_FyR69HcUuCo2xNEkquawk_hKhIb7zGCOmkH646D_4K8T6HuF9zObpmTZiuHySl0usRCPu1U2FVvY3FatVNXQ3E8Mf6O0_8tN6j_3D6MseUwILuOg5_P1-Xr-/s400/waterfall.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
<div abp="3279" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3025" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3026">
<div abp="1494">
<div abp="344">
<span abp="3027" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At the Anchorage Bay Hut turnoff I continued on to Torrent Bay via the high tide track. The monsoon put me off stopping for a drink. The photos display how beautiful the day was. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3028">
<div abp="1497">
<div abp="348">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3257" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="3258" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCeRaqXq07GWDxogN4LAa_2ZBYSbIeZcL02beISKlXxdbq3i8v9XwaOj26KMMDmCrPirmxhFqNfTJay6_gjB12uTdzxhcNyR0pQlT65EWFxJQZMDEwreVRrWIPDj1moykSYZvAnmnWI26a/s1600/torrent+bay.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="3259" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCeRaqXq07GWDxogN4LAa_2ZBYSbIeZcL02beISKlXxdbq3i8v9XwaOj26KMMDmCrPirmxhFqNfTJay6_gjB12uTdzxhcNyR0pQlT65EWFxJQZMDEwreVRrWIPDj1moykSYZvAnmnWI26a/s400/torrent+bay.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="3260">
</div>
<div abp="3261" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="3262" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLAVnBhtDszV2FyTn3dT4dnlRhNF2msgq7U0XUqOVen0nwX723PniX8KssJZmGvS7ASHRV4gDLfj9Nl87j3e2fiKIvF6bEIA8SK2TxyigjfBPasBwpW7jVLrq8qTf3PKdy4f7DhUBdnel/s1600/swing+bridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="3263" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLAVnBhtDszV2FyTn3dT4dnlRhNF2msgq7U0XUqOVen0nwX723PniX8KssJZmGvS7ASHRV4gDLfj9Nl87j3e2fiKIvF6bEIA8SK2TxyigjfBPasBwpW7jVLrq8qTf3PKdy4f7DhUBdnel/s400/swing+bridge.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
<div abp="3045" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="3046" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="3047">
<div abp="1521">
<div abp="353">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3048">
<div abp="1523">
<div abp="356">
<span abp="3049" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At around 10am I reached Bark Bay; flushing toilet and a hut where I could write in my trip intentions. I sit outside to eat crisps. The hikers indoors are probably not ready to have my three hour run shoved in their faces just yet. When I do venture inside, to drip all over the log book and describe the weather as <i abp="3050">shite, </i>I find them all hunched around a fire discussing their possible departure at 11am. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1526">
<div abp="360">
<span abp="3051" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="3052">
<div abp="1529">
<div abp="364">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="365">
<span abp="3051" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div abp="1531">
<div abp="368">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3054" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3055">
<div abp="1534">
<div abp="372">
<span abp="3056" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">After texting the adults to let them know I would be departing the hut at 10:15, I do a rough calculation of time and distance. I knew I was taking it easy but I seem to be very slow. Low tide is at 11:45 and I need to be at Awaroa Hut for the estuary crossing as close to this time as possible in order to cross safely. At my current pace, I am not going to come close to that.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3057" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3058" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3059">
<div abp="1539">
<div abp="378">
<span abp="3060" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3061"><br abp="3062" /></b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3063" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3064" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3065">
<div abp="1546">
<div abp="386">
<span abp="3066" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3067">Bark Bay to Awaroa Hut ~ 13km</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3068" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3069" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3070">
<div abp="1552">
<div abp="393">
<span abp="3071" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3072">10:15 - 12:00</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3073" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3074" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3075">
<div abp="1558">
<div abp="400">
<span abp="3076" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3077">1 hour 45 minutes</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3078" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3079" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3080">
<div abp="1564">
<div abp="407">
<span abp="3081" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3082" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3083" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3084">
<div abp="1569">
<div abp="413">
<span abp="3085" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Keen on making up time, I put my feet back into my soaking shoes and tear off towards the beach. Low tide track. Hmm, but it is not low tide and no one mentioned I would have this crossing. Another jog around the hut. Back out the track I came in on. A fallen tree was partially covering the sign pointing me in the right direction over the high tide route. My hopes of making up time are further dashed when I realise that there are a number of inclines over the next 13km. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3086">
<div abp="1572">
<div abp="417">
<span abp="3087" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3088" /></span>
<span abp="3089" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I run past an extended family who comment to their children that my speed is the sort of pace that they are after.<i abp="3090"> 'Totes, if you want to get across the crossing today!' </i>the nitwit in me calls. They are surprised I am crossing today, I am surprised that they are only doing a 13km walk. Calculating walking distances as a runner is confusing.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1577">
<div abp="423">
<span abp="3091" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="3092">
<div abp="1580">
<div abp="427">
<span abp="3091" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="429">
<span abp="3091" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div abp="1583">
<div abp="432">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div abp="3093">
<div abp="1585">
<div abp="435">
<span abp="3094" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Swishing my rainjacket arms, I do as best as I can to make up time. Trying to run at pace means that every incline is a cruel mountain. I am also not particularly fit so my incline running ability is not flash. There are infrequent signs informing me of distance, to which I give the deathly stare. Surely when I get within a few kilometres of the crossing there will be walkers coming towards me who have managed to cross at the lowest tidal point? No walkers. Still no more walkers. Finally two walkers; neither who look wet like they should after a tidal crossing. Going down, down. Campsite. No time to fill my drink bottle; I am about twenty minutes after the lowest tide and I need to get across. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3095">
<div abp="1588">
<div abp="439">
<span abp="3096" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3097" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3098" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="1592">
<div abp="444">
<span abp="3099" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3100">
</b></span></div>
<div abp="3108">
<div abp="1605">
<div abp="449">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div abp="1606">
<div abp="451">
<span abp="3099" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3100"> </b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="454">
<span abp="3099" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3100">
</b></span><div abp="3110">
<div abp="1612">
<div abp="459">
<span abp="3099" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3100"> </b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<span abp="3099" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3100">
</b></span><div abp="464">
<br /></div>
<div abp="1613">
<div abp="466">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3111" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3112" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3113">
<div abp="1617">
<div abp="471">
<span abp="3114" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3115">Awaroa Hut to Totaranui</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3116" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3117" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3118">
<div abp="1623">
<div abp="478">
<span abp="3119" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3120">12:00 - 13:30</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3121" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3122" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3123">
<div abp="1629">
<div abp="485">
<span abp="3124" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3125">1 hour 30 minutes</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3126">
<div abp="1633">
<div abp="490">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3127" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3128">
<div abp="1636">
<div abp="494">
<span abp="3129" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3130" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3131" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3132">
<div abp="1641">
<table abp="3226" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3227">
<tr abp="3228"><td abp="3229" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="3230" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOtC1JCu2mrqM4l9PWsqsuHHiyNz_1fulhnLL8KTxLbttS1NTQra2cu6z-ewG72lIGpkYCFrJLxXnbikgXuyggwZPV7UhbrQ1Ci5WmznDnQ-NQHIrlBWG4iWQgjajnGuLJ7KldJaIZS_I/s1600/crossing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3231" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOtC1JCu2mrqM4l9PWsqsuHHiyNz_1fulhnLL8KTxLbttS1NTQra2cu6z-ewG72lIGpkYCFrJLxXnbikgXuyggwZPV7UhbrQ1Ci5WmznDnQ-NQHIrlBWG4iWQgjajnGuLJ7KldJaIZS_I/s400/crossing.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="3232"><td abp="3233" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3234" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The crossing doesn't look too bad</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="500">
<span abp="3133" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Scores of walkers are sitting on the hut's porch. What on Abel Tasman earth are they doing? None have crossed and the water is only going to get higher. A quad bike appears from somewhere collecting oversized tramping packs. I rip off my running shoes, wrap them in a plastic bag and squish them into my bag. With my reef shoes shoved on, I flap my feet rapidly towards the water. I have my reef shoes on because of the beautiful sharp shells and crabs I am going to see through the crystal clear water.... Or so my sister said. There has been so much rain that the water is as murky as murky water. Totes murky. </span><span abp="3134" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br abp="3135" /><span abp="3134" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3136" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3137">
<div abp="1647">
<div abp="507">
<span abp="3138" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Olivia also used her hands to motion that the water would be a bit above knee height when asked about the crossing depth. As a vertically challenged member of society, I am expecting the water to be around my mid-thigh. It is currently around my waist. I lift my backpack up at the sides and back. Everything is in plastic snap lock bags but they won't handle full water immersion. And my cell phone is in my side pocket, the device I need to use to let the parentals know where I am. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3139">
<div abp="1650">
<div abp="511">
<span abp="3140" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3141" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3142">
<div abp="1654">
<div abp="516">
<span abp="3143" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Ahead of me is a couple; the girl in a poncho and the guy with a tramping pack on both hi front and back. The girl is my height and now crying as the water is getting higher as we enter further into the crossing. There is no way that my sister; on her tiny steroid-ruined thighs (yes, she's a weight-lifter who has abused steroids for years) would have got across this water. I realise it is higher because of the rain; but this much higher? </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3144" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3145">
<div abp="1658">
<div abp="521">
<span abp="3146" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3147" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3148">
<div abp="1662">
<div abp="526">
<span abp="3149" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The water isn't pulling me sideways down to the ocean but it is coming towards me. Before I know it; I am crossing the estuary in the torrential rain, tits deep in water. As I am still wearing the rainjacket (the irony is that it is my sister's), the water has streamed down the sleeves. With my backpakc now above my head and strapped around my neck, I use the thunder thighs I was genetically nonblessed with and lurch forward. This is not fun and I do not like it. I contemplate the swim. I could easily swim it. All my kit would be stuffed and I still have 25km of slow slogging at the other side of this water. I would be rather chilly and as hungry as I am when I am really hungry. </span><span abp="3150" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br abp="3151" /><span abp="3150" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3152" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3153">
<div abp="1668">
<div abp="533">
<span abp="3154" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You'll all be pleased to know that I survived. After about 20 minutes, I dragged myself ashore. I sat outside an eco-friendly toilet; head in hands; shed a few tears and then repeatedly swore at a Weka that was trying to steal my food. The jet plane sweeties did not make the journey successfully. A wee bit sticky now. After letting the parentals know of my survival (but not worrying them with the trauma) I trudge along, thankful not to have a belly full of salt water. </span></div>
<div abp="533">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3155">
<div abp="1671">
<table abp="3217" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3218">
<tr abp="3219"><td abp="3220" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="3221" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiKvHtGDpOg2nVKcyT03Jb43YnZrhYAaYjTLtNqpbpfAX4ez0rW4bOIOeUTvIsBAXRj1R5enP1I-criJM-a3Bil9MaUEczvlLy4faq5YOnaHcUsqzZTWHNK2NW8Ow46hF9lnokgnWqPOK/s1600/weka.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3222" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiKvHtGDpOg2nVKcyT03Jb43YnZrhYAaYjTLtNqpbpfAX4ez0rW4bOIOeUTvIsBAXRj1R5enP1I-criJM-a3Bil9MaUEczvlLy4faq5YOnaHcUsqzZTWHNK2NW8Ow46hF9lnokgnWqPOK/s400/weka.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="3223"><td abp="3224" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="3225" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cheeky Weka</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="3198">
</div>
<div abp="537">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3164" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3165">
<div abp="1684">
<div abp="541">
<span abp="3166" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3167" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3168">
<div abp="1688">
<div abp="546">
<span abp="3169" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In comparison, the rest of the journey to Totaranui was unremarkable. There were some beautiful beaches and even the weather was clearing. Totaranui is a mega camp. There are even recycling bins. Families fight over the best camping sites. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3170">
<div abp="1691">
<div abp="550">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3171" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="2032" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="3181" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;">
<div abp="1705">
<div abp="555">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3183">
<div abp="1707">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a abp="3318" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6xw0ZVA4pkqGqrncpkdJNeHo43qt0wLaBm_6jzsGSjMELzmB0nQz27mTI15y3boxHTU4GB2cf-dtCV-WWY0o9CSxCjGEJ4zo5FTCsZmwQS4OkLhwyoE9Yp4XfAoA8mAYsf_i8MZM09JT/s1600/totaranui.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3319" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6xw0ZVA4pkqGqrncpkdJNeHo43qt0wLaBm_6jzsGSjMELzmB0nQz27mTI15y3boxHTU4GB2cf-dtCV-WWY0o9CSxCjGEJ4zo5FTCsZmwQS4OkLhwyoE9Yp4XfAoA8mAYsf_i8MZM09JT/s400/totaranui.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">View of Totaranui Beach</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="558">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3184" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3185" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="1710">
<div abp="562">
<span abp="3186" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1712">
<div abp="565">
<span abp="3187" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3188" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3189" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3190">
<div abp="1717">
<div abp="571">
<span abp="3191" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3192">Totaranui to Whariwharangi Bay Hut (via Separation Point)</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3193" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3194" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3195">
<div abp="1723">
<div abp="578">
<span abp="3196" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3197">13:30 - 15:30</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3198" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3199" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3200">
<div abp="1729">
<div abp="585">
<span abp="3201" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3202">two hours</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3203">
<div abp="1733">
<div abp="590">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3204" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3205">
<div abp="1736">
<div abp="594">
<span abp="3206" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3207" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3208">
<div abp="1740">
<div abp="599">
<span abp="3209" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3210" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3211">
<div abp="1744">
<div abp="604">
<span abp="3212" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As I wander out of Totaranui, swigging away at an unhealthy soda beverage, I see an automobile which looks like so many other automobiles. It also looks like my father's. Winner, winner, it is! A fabulous surprise; they can take my rubbish. I let them know that I am feeling fine but that I am a bit slow and therefore will finish an hour behind schedule. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3213">
<div abp="1747">
<div abp="608">
<span abp="3214" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3215" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3216">
<div abp="1751">
<div abp="613">
<span abp="3217" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A few kilometres later, the rain jacket can finally come off. The chaffing from my shorts is a true story. Trudge, trudge, beautiful beach after beautiful beach. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3218">
<div abp="1754">
<div abp="617">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1755">
<div abp="619">
<span abp="3219" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="1768">
<div abp="622">
<span abp="3229" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="3238">
<div abp="1781">
<div abp="626">
<span abp="3239" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3240" /></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3238">
<div abp="1786">
<div abp="631">
</div>
<div abp="632" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="633" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMB-gQaGABhqtnR8mhHp9cxJFgqkAt2soREiB8N7iVF_ajXtYKV88i5VleD_JVnCENM9zhvocnZ_nVUgj0gNMeAzLU75AalFukIuYbjixDWPiKiqmgPIHIH7aSSOZnMafURhSk2HErWK59/s1600/happier+beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="634" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMB-gQaGABhqtnR8mhHp9cxJFgqkAt2soREiB8N7iVF_ajXtYKV88i5VleD_JVnCENM9zhvocnZ_nVUgj0gNMeAzLU75AalFukIuYbjixDWPiKiqmgPIHIH7aSSOZnMafURhSk2HErWK59/s400/happier+beach.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="635">
</div>
<div abp="636" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="639">
</div>
<div abp="640" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="641" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE96RtQhFDnPNOsXYHCuQgVEtYnkcRSdHaZ-vfjTjcNeFyAllvPPvAwHbAc3_AJFh2RyKf3yCjnB1c_tsyzqCNCw9Wfym_-ka46vKKx4MehxCSJrCGJufkIIECWJdugtWelSFDiiW0T3Ji/s1600/beach+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="642" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE96RtQhFDnPNOsXYHCuQgVEtYnkcRSdHaZ-vfjTjcNeFyAllvPPvAwHbAc3_AJFh2RyKf3yCjnB1c_tsyzqCNCw9Wfym_-ka46vKKx4MehxCSJrCGJufkIIECWJdugtWelSFDiiW0T3Ji/s400/beach+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="643">
</div>
<div abp="644" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="645" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPoMmfQnAu2KGJoBeknm3W9ix19_LPCMjyVyS7JHuPzIde-KR-5Tvc305oV6wFZ2qQgA6LQewQS61eQGXJEEfyKsIquAu92S6cI2QWT7Cnh_podYlqQ1K4dk2hkHtkNSDhk4_ZqorsNvt/s1600/beach+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="646" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPoMmfQnAu2KGJoBeknm3W9ix19_LPCMjyVyS7JHuPzIde-KR-5Tvc305oV6wFZ2qQgA6LQewQS61eQGXJEEfyKsIquAu92S6cI2QWT7Cnh_podYlqQ1K4dk2hkHtkNSDhk4_ZqorsNvt/s400/beach+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3238">
<div abp="1788">
<div abp="649">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3238">
<div abp="1791">
<div abp="652">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3238">
<div abp="1793">
<div abp="655">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3242" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3243">
<div abp="1796">
<div abp="659">
<span abp="3244" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On one of these beautiful beaches I meet a lonely German guy who I get speaking to. His English isn't brilliant so somehow he gets confused in the conversation and decides that he will run with me; whilst carrying his tramping pack and wearing jeans. Side note; jeans are not a good hiking decision at any time, and an even worse one when it is wet. HIs original route got changed and now he is heading to a small beach that I don't know. He tears off ahead down a small trail off the beach. For the second time today, I wonder if I might be killed. Fortunately, he doesn't spring out from a bush and kill me. The pen also seems to drop regarding the fact that I am running all the way. He lets me continue unharmed. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3245">
<div abp="1799">
<div abp="663">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3247">
<div abp="1802">
<div abp="3235" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="3236" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLI-Wq9CPGNya5mLqXMsG-oNnUZaOivGzxbUqPJrk0_dZ37hbFTckCqzhs7KDs11HUoEMCKmqDQrsrW9HjEAhLh3E8pzolQ-aST4DvBey9py-nPL_GuaXZrCxMt7c0a4UdUSVNJy4oHIA/s1600/rocky+beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="3237" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLI-Wq9CPGNya5mLqXMsG-oNnUZaOivGzxbUqPJrk0_dZ37hbFTckCqzhs7KDs11HUoEMCKmqDQrsrW9HjEAhLh3E8pzolQ-aST4DvBey9py-nPL_GuaXZrCxMt7c0a4UdUSVNJy4oHIA/s400/rocky+beach.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="3238">
</div>
<div abp="3239" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="3240" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIVij9ykDkKWYfxcFbO_IOFk12n7cuNMbJ0dQnPDF3mLxE8yhMKzXEH9DoY4QxlKuVY3ZZ5bfCcw9wOrtk3LULw1qZu9YuhURzzziP9UvsdxT5xGnUcMF5zm430VO65CA3XuVQvYM1Cwy/s1600/rocky+path.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="3241" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIVij9ykDkKWYfxcFbO_IOFk12n7cuNMbJ0dQnPDF3mLxE8yhMKzXEH9DoY4QxlKuVY3ZZ5bfCcw9wOrtk3LULw1qZu9YuhURzzziP9UvsdxT5xGnUcMF5zm430VO65CA3XuVQvYM1Cwy/s400/rocky+path.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
<div abp="666">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3248" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3249" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="3250" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="3253">
<div abp="1808">
<div abp="672">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3254" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3255">
<div abp="1811">
<div abp="676">
<span abp="3256" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I take a track up to see Separation Point. There are no seals today. I then wiggle my way to Whariwharangi Bay Hut; a splendid looking two storey hut with lots of little rooms and a big wooden dining table. Inside I speak to a couple of Americans who are claiming to be Kiwis ( dual nationals, pfffft). Their plans today changed from their original booking due to boat cancellations. They are confused as to how I have come from Marahau. The distance is not the first reason for their confusion. It turns out; the WATER CROSSING WAS CLOSED! As the weather bomb raised the water levels and there was a risk of flash flooding, the park rangers had closed the crossing. That was why there were so many people sitting outside Awaroa Hut. I am sure the closure was well advertised inside the huts; they just weren't expecting someone to jog the route today.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3257">
<div abp="1814">
<div abp="680">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<table abp="2327" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2328">
<tr abp="2329"><td abp="2330" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="685">
<a abp="2331" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDvid9sgaD38pv1TCEJUR4ey8V6BRJoCHFF-P58TJNWTBKzwMWShJYyEYSvLYBB4qZ5J1b0eF_hYvmv8jJHNcNPNGvB002CJOiX6Y4BSubX2yr_32_XdekPF50Bc7TWLc2dk9Mcs5WBQc/s1600/sep+point+view.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2332" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDvid9sgaD38pv1TCEJUR4ey8V6BRJoCHFF-P58TJNWTBKzwMWShJYyEYSvLYBB4qZ5J1b0eF_hYvmv8jJHNcNPNGvB002CJOiX6Y4BSubX2yr_32_XdekPF50Bc7TWLc2dk9Mcs5WBQc/s400/sep+point+view.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2333"><td abp="2334" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="690">
<span abp="2335" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">View from Separation Point</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2299">
<div abp="693">
</div>
</div>
<table abp="694" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="695">
<tr abp="696"><td abp="697" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="698">
<a abp="2301" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMqNVWfXgICqclwbXxdZs9SoIAE0ZF8sUQ9dP-6Kn8fbsFPNG-yG8C7c29CJLDY2DzozXKKd90uno2ecObVSXLD13WzKa1ihJQ3hB-Vi0fiz9Toh2hrsg7VkmyHwaHhdTgpbvqgmG7jcJ/s1600/sep+point.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2302" border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMqNVWfXgICqclwbXxdZs9SoIAE0ZF8sUQ9dP-6Kn8fbsFPNG-yG8C7c29CJLDY2DzozXKKd90uno2ecObVSXLD13WzKa1ihJQ3hB-Vi0fiz9Toh2hrsg7VkmyHwaHhdTgpbvqgmG7jcJ/s400/sep+point.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="701"><td abp="702" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="703">
<span abp="704" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Separation Point</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="3258" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="1816">
<div abp="707">
<span abp="3259" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="1829">
<div abp="710">
<span abp="3269" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="3278" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="3279" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="1843">
<div abp="715">
<span abp="3281" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<div abp="3282">
<div abp="1846">
<div abp="719">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3283" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3284">
<div abp="1849">
<div abp="723">
<span abp="3285" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Dual citizen couple are also confused as to how I am dry. That crossing was hours ago darlings and I have been running like the wind ever since. Well, I have been running. And it is now hot. And it was hours ago. And clothing dries. Educating others across the globe.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3286">
<div abp="1852">
<div abp="727">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3287" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3288" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="1855">
<div abp="731">
<span abp="3289" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</span></div>
</div>
<table abp="2303" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2304">
<tr abp="2305"><td abp="2306" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="737">
<a abp="2307" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sN2dIA5AaSKrzMdKqoEUiqYjZ-_EvBjKDnwdt76VPsazn_FTZyusX0Y0I-A07r1LVgA8_aTXstm2xIgEavge82e3fwcboXhn6VTTvte5Od47NbFrO3LaSLJH2oWeQTk2SvjWeM33D4Om/s1600/hut.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2308" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sN2dIA5AaSKrzMdKqoEUiqYjZ-_EvBjKDnwdt76VPsazn_FTZyusX0Y0I-A07r1LVgA8_aTXstm2xIgEavge82e3fwcboXhn6VTTvte5Od47NbFrO3LaSLJH2oWeQTk2SvjWeM33D4Om/s400/hut.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2309"><td abp="2310" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="742">
<span abp="2311" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Whariwharangi Bay Hut</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2216">
<div abp="745">
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2217" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="3297" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div abp="3298">
<div abp="1868">
<div abp="750">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3299" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3300" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3301">
<div abp="1872">
<div abp="755">
<span abp="3302" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3303">Whariwharangi Bay Hut to Wainui Bay</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3304" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3305" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3306">
<div abp="1878">
<div abp="762">
<span abp="3307" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3308">15:45 - 16:30</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3309" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3310" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3311">
<div abp="1884">
<div abp="769">
<span abp="3312" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b abp="3313">45 minutes</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3314" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3315">
<div abp="1889">
<div abp="775">
<span abp="3316" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3317" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3318" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3319">
<div abp="1894">
<div abp="781">
<span abp="3320" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Last leg. An uphill then a downhill. Fabulous. My legs are a bit tired. It has been a great solo adventure. As an unknown bird watcher, I have thoroughly enjoyed the cheeky natives about. I have less than a certain number of kilometres to go. I can't remember what that certain number is but it must be getting smalller. I meet day trippers and families heading up to the hut for a sleepover. I run down switchback after switchback. Legs are giving it the thud, thud. Wish there was a flat part. I get closer and closer to the bay. Come on flat, be round a corner somewhere. A flat section came, at the bottom of the hill where one can expect flat ground to occur, and naturally if felt like an uphill climb. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3321" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3322">
<div abp="1898">
<div abp="786">
<span abp="3323" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3324" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3325" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3326">
<div abp="1903">
<div abp="792">
<span abp="3327" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And there are my parents, waiting in the carpark for my arrival. Mother holding a tablet in front of her face but forgetting to press the play button on the video, and my father with a phone in front of his face taking several blurry unflattering photos in quick succession. Parents and technology; the best entertainment I have had since that water crossing. We stop for a cracking pizza and snicker slice in Takaka before father and I crack open several beers and the motherlode has to drive us back over the hill back to Nelson. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3328" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3329">
<div abp="1907">
<div abp="797">
<span abp="3330" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3331" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3332" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3333">
<div abp="1912">
<div abp="803">
<span abp="3334" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A solid adventure, thanks to the parents for not stopping me and providing transportation. And thank you to all the walkers I saw that didn't tell me about the crossing closure; turning back would have been a longer run and I would have had to return another day to complete the track. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3335" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3336">
<div abp="1916">
<div abp="808">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3337" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="3338" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9qHj7VZNb3PVKbDByrj9TjCwwrSZM877sHOkz-3RsC9WpmES3n3bcKn4MM5XGeI6iU0BAsvHvDU3hPz_O_5EXqDJ34-7Eeldg4IAyDg3h4v5jPxl7N0dAuRznBYhRV527Py4nsSeG-ug/s1600/20170122_195022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="3339" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9qHj7VZNb3PVKbDByrj9TjCwwrSZM877sHOkz-3RsC9WpmES3n3bcKn4MM5XGeI6iU0BAsvHvDU3hPz_O_5EXqDJ34-7Eeldg4IAyDg3h4v5jPxl7N0dAuRznBYhRV527Py4nsSeG-ug/s400/20170122_195022.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<div abp="3340">
<div abp="1921">
<div abp="814">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3341" style="text-align: justify;">
<div abp="3342">
<div abp="1924">
<div abp="818">
<span abp="3343" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3344" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3345" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="822">
</div>
<div abp="3354">
<table abp="2163" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2164">
<tr abp="2165"><td abp="2166" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="828">
<a abp="2167" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBOxKeB7EZNc2vtQCsgb73FWqxxqwIBkYttx940OeFRkHyZPrSdxaJBhwkogOHLPugnylDAe9fH3pXkD_QcGew7ce3ZXyzGG6mgL-ymdDS17-lWRrssxB75sG-Jwo4wh8uKxdFm3HHl4l/s1600/braids.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2168" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBOxKeB7EZNc2vtQCsgb73FWqxxqwIBkYttx940OeFRkHyZPrSdxaJBhwkogOHLPugnylDAe9fH3pXkD_QcGew7ce3ZXyzGG6mgL-ymdDS17-lWRrssxB75sG-Jwo4wh8uKxdFm3HHl4l/s400/braids.jpeg" width="223" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2169"><td abp="2170" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="833">
<span abp="2197" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My braids shrunk a little in the rain</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2114">
<div abp="836">
</div>
</div>
<table abp="2220" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2221">
<tr abp="2222"><td abp="2223" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="841">
<a abp="2224" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd67MAlKTpnrbnDB_mFXNYZMuKRSVBEn7dumzhCe9ciWMhFanpaZ_xs-3WHiI67SHIcIg3HDQPK-z_U16Ulbif62fQICNBdLDfDXdvpPWfwscQ1mjD1c0K-jVjW2CKTdylo_cIelhWcl8/s1600/football+pitch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2225" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd67MAlKTpnrbnDB_mFXNYZMuKRSVBEn7dumzhCe9ciWMhFanpaZ_xs-3WHiI67SHIcIg3HDQPK-z_U16Ulbif62fQICNBdLDfDXdvpPWfwscQ1mjD1c0K-jVjW2CKTdylo_cIelhWcl8/s400/football+pitch.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2226"><td abp="2227" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="846">
<span abp="2228" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A classic football / rugby pitch in New Zealand</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1939">
<div abp="849">
<span abp="3355" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3356" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3357" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="1943">
<div abp="854">
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3366">
<div abp="1955">
<div abp="857">
<span abp="3367" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<div abp="1957">
<div abp="860">
<span abp="3369" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3370" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3371">
<div abp="1961">
<div abp="865">
<span abp="3372" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3373" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="3374" style="text-align: center;">
<div abp="3375">
<div abp="1966">
<div abp="871">
<span abp="3376" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br abp="3377" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com4Abel Tasman National Park, South Island 7183, New Zealand-40.9346851 172.97215519999997-66.4567196 131.66356119999998 -15.412650600000003 -145.71925080000005tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-60621288091017342112017-01-15T08:34:00.000+00:002017-01-15T08:34:52.881+00:00A Summer Marcothon<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-5e9d86c8-a131-6dcf-c262-1f0fa3a7ecc3" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMWifhOlU1C5m1990W0XFN89vO93YWoKIQwD7f7Gt_xl0C3nCO6idvSNIlf8xwdNMwH6LZaRx8F3X7dOgKdpZyeJ4L5vok7cCJuYEFpuuUXh3hLUVyn2X0XTO93hktk2qIOLFXQl4MkCGG/s1600/IMG_20161225_235549_636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMWifhOlU1C5m1990W0XFN89vO93YWoKIQwD7f7Gt_xl0C3nCO6idvSNIlf8xwdNMwH6LZaRx8F3X7dOgKdpZyeJ4L5vok7cCJuYEFpuuUXh3hLUVyn2X0XTO93hktk2qIOLFXQl4MkCGG/s400/IMG_20161225_235549_636.jpg" width="342" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The rules on Christmas Day are that you must wear a santa hat and drink champagne before the run</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-5e9d86c8-a131-6dcf-c262-1f0fa3a7ecc3" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-5e9d86c8-a131-6dcf-c262-1f0fa3a7ecc3" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Running every day for a month is hard for most. Running every day for a month in the lightless arctic month of December in Scotland is harder still. Obviously, this had to become a challenge. This challenge had to be called The Marcothon. It is named after some bloke in Scotland. Marco runs more than occasionally. So does his wife. Google the story. You can even buy the t-shirt. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Running every day for December when you are currently residing in summertime New Zealand and have very little employment obligations… not as difficult. Perhaps even cheating. But given that I have attempted numerous times in Scotland and achieved just once, I thought summertime New Zealand matched my commitment level more closely. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The rules; run every day in December for at least 5km or 25 minutes (whichever comes first).</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Previously highlights included leaving a Mexican restaurant at 11:30pm after pitchers of margarita so that I could get a run in before the midnight deadline. Wearing my day’s attire which consisted of heeled boots and a Christmas jumper. I was so drunk that I unfortunately left my woollen hat in the restaurant. Thanks Sinead and Tina; that was a brilliant night. Neither were inspired to take up running. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This year I decided to pair up the Marcothon with the Beerathon. The second challenge is pretty self explanatory and was the harder of the two given my preference for overpriced craft beer and my limited funds. I have listed the beers at the bottom for those of you who are thirsty. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I would like to say that my run on the first of December was a memorable one but in all honesty, I cannot remember it. Most runs consisted of loops up to the Centre of New Zealand (cool fact; it is in my hometown), out-and-backs along a trail following the river (watching others enjoy the swimming holes), and jogging to the supermarket to pick up kai. Kai in New Zealand means food. Yes, please be embarrassed if you live in Britain and have named your child that without Google searching for all the meanings around the world. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Highlights this year included a beautiful run up Mount Manaia. Stunning views in the North of New Zealand on a gorgeous day. I had my sunhat and sunglasses on; although it was more because I was so hungover that I couldn’t face the world. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to the top due to my over consumption the night before. On the upside; I didn’t vomit.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qLK9Xxq5sHSf7cNR6GqNH94KhhZpIdyKHz1q1oQ53Dz2JDgy3RGbPjsjPtBwP0vQ1SVrnn6D-jtp4xxKiegFuuY2385tMtt4kuDqBENlVBPH5c6zwqBnPkMTt9YNslfJcx1K9J6d8m2b/s1600/20161230_112336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qLK9Xxq5sHSf7cNR6GqNH94KhhZpIdyKHz1q1oQ53Dz2JDgy3RGbPjsjPtBwP0vQ1SVrnn6D-jtp4xxKiegFuuY2385tMtt4kuDqBENlVBPH5c6zwqBnPkMTt9YNslfJcx1K9J6d8m2b/s400/20161230_112336.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Scott did not actually run up the hill; my sister Hillary did and very patiently waited for me when I was too slow! </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Another highlight included a run joining two of my favourite trails in Nelson; the Maitai walkway past the dam and then up over Coppermine Saddle and down passed Third Hut. My favourite part of the trail had been closed after a slip caused by the Kaikoura earthquake in November (yes it was scary and yes I survived, although standing across from a bookshelf which was swaying while things fell off was not my smartest move).Clearly people had been up this trail dispute it’s closure as evidenced by the warning tape having been ripped down and tyre tracks everywhere. So I figured it was OK. Once I neared the end of the trail I realised that it was NOT OK and I had to cross a very scary slip made of large slate scree. I promise that I will not run on that trail again until it is open. Being summertime, some of the creeks had dried up and I ran out of water during my 45km journey. Fortunately, my father had decided to cycle in the opposite direction up the hill and had stashed a beer for my lunch with less than 20km to go. Beerathon for that day; tick. </span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVVtzAI590WUZNHsRdUbvd4emNN65pkV4Sn-YxlnUrR2HDNI0bfAH9KQ04svkox7-vey5NQLSUvQ76_4QK36kyR2flrp2xTAOMe0oR0u5TOZ01F5eDVQXZ3mO0M4PfcUDptZHLRTdMjnCS/s1600/20161221_131524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVVtzAI590WUZNHsRdUbvd4emNN65pkV4Sn-YxlnUrR2HDNI0bfAH9KQ04svkox7-vey5NQLSUvQ76_4QK36kyR2flrp2xTAOMe0oR0u5TOZ01F5eDVQXZ3mO0M4PfcUDptZHLRTdMjnCS/s400/20161221_131524.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Lunch on the Coppermine Saddle</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Possibly the best run was on Boxing Day when I had a 6am flight to Auckland, then a few hours to wait for Scott and his brother Andy to arrive from Hong Kong. On arrival into Auckland, I got changed into my running gear and threw my suitcase and handbag on a luggage trolley. I then preceded to run the approximately 700m between Auckland Domestic and Auckland International terminals seven times. To get between terminals you follow a coloured line, which despite running it numerous times, I cannot remember if it is green or blue. Travellers reactions were amusing. On the first lap; she’s running late for a flight. The second lap; oh dear, she has forgotten something from her original terminal. The third lap; phew, she has got her lost item but is now running very late for her connecting flight. Good thing she travels in her full brightly coloured running kit and Ariana Grande ponytail. The fourth lap; wtf??!! Fortunately, only one couple saw me run all seven laps. I had a Dundee shower at the International terminal and awaited the boys arrival. After almost five months apart, I am sure that Scott didn’t mind if I was a bit smelly to greet him…</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPVowyrGWJQHpdF7LPMYWM770RKds8eHfCN_Wd_03bMo8tDR-o0QFu1JsjuDRLb_GXi2Jtm_NdJ5BnttfIcf5xqs3mnNOiEmcvdVylBI6DAcq06kgkIifdwvbRUeqT6OheGdu2hWXniy0T/s1600/20161226_091856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPVowyrGWJQHpdF7LPMYWM770RKds8eHfCN_Wd_03bMo8tDR-o0QFu1JsjuDRLb_GXi2Jtm_NdJ5BnttfIcf5xqs3mnNOiEmcvdVylBI6DAcq06kgkIifdwvbRUeqT6OheGdu2hWXniy0T/s400/20161226_091856.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Running with my airport trolley between Auckland Domestic and Auckland International Airport! </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwRXqIR4RmMyIhnsEZ9rE3JJzWqk42325G9zTZqgiIL5gpCc_YIisRS-8oBMVXySKy7GE9uKMnIwUcSriThyphenhyphencFDm_VJ580UYgGZwjdrsxDIgmGB17_PZekTuNWTEFA_5pqrxLkBIUGMZJ/s1600/20161226_142641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwRXqIR4RmMyIhnsEZ9rE3JJzWqk42325G9zTZqgiIL5gpCc_YIisRS-8oBMVXySKy7GE9uKMnIwUcSriThyphenhyphencFDm_VJ580UYgGZwjdrsxDIgmGB17_PZekTuNWTEFA_5pqrxLkBIUGMZJ/s400/20161226_142641.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And the beers on the Viaduct in Auckland post airport (and showers)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And so I achieved Marcothon this year. At the end I was running as little as I needed to as my injury from the Taranaki 100 miler flared up. But completion is completion; whether it is summer or winter! </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Beers</span></span></div>
<ul style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Altitude Brewing - The Moonlight Track</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kereru Brewing - Silverstream Pale Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kereru Brewing - Resonator IPA</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">To Ol - Garden of Eden</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">To Ol - Cloud 9 Wit</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">McCashin’s Brewery - Stoke Maika Red Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kereru Brewing - Karengose</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Wigram Brewing - Ginger Jerry</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kereru Brewing - Old Red Oak Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Brew Moon Brewing - Luna Wit</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">McCashin’s Brewery - Stoke Recognition Rich Porter</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Mussel Inn - Brown Cow</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Garage Project - Dark Arts Coffee Bock</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">8 Wired Brewing - Wild Feijoa</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kereru Brewing - Pohutukawa Golden Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Tuatara Brewery - Amarillo</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Renaissance Brewing - Elemental Porter Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Renaissance Brewing - Fellowship Aotearoa Pale Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kereru Brewing - Guava Weisse</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Maui Brewing - Doppel Shot Double Bock</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Abbaye de Leffe - Leffe Bruin</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Renaissance Brewing - Voyager</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Funk Estate - Soul Slap</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Deep Creek Brewing - The Leprechaun’s Belle</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">To Ol - Liquid Confidence</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kereru Brewing - Come Bye: Shepherd’s Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">McLeod’s - Scotch Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">McLeod’s - Tropical Cyclone</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">McLeod’s - White Sands</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Brouwerij Rodenbach - Rodenbach Grand Cru</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Hallertau Brewery - Nocturne</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Saku Olletehas - Saku Porter</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Garage Project - Mutiny On the Bounty</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Boundary Road Brewery - Flying Fortress</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Moa Brewing - Session Pale Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">McLeod’s - Pioneer Porter</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Wild Buck - Golden Lager</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sawmill Brewery - Pilsner</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">8 Wired Brewing - Hippy Berliner Cucumber Edition</span></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Baylands Brewery - Petone Pale Ale</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlENQk1GSV0cdEbLH85m0fJ03f5Wmf1rOYFXfXhfOqJalwcRyM_tgi5FkfFUn_wBy6wGxglq0fdnYjXyOm-E4HahuKfr8M1MFtd-jnvKo13yv2yX7jA99MxR9Rfsya5_-2JYYEVjKe6pWv/s1600/IMG_20161207_233642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlENQk1GSV0cdEbLH85m0fJ03f5Wmf1rOYFXfXhfOqJalwcRyM_tgi5FkfFUn_wBy6wGxglq0fdnYjXyOm-E4HahuKfr8M1MFtd-jnvKo13yv2yX7jA99MxR9Rfsya5_-2JYYEVjKe6pWv/s400/IMG_20161207_233642.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Me being a hero so that my sister does not get her only pair of running shoes wet. Yes ultrarunners, some people can run with just one pair of shoes!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0FbkMT0JvJ2MMkVyBNs5wetKUSFWbbzU5L2hPo80JU99Gxa8kixJYilCDfthyUzJiregJEscjdnGfWOMzdNU-r0hM7amFCDa6rxOFotoNCCCY4GO4l_LCDD1i-on8npDptSzUQawaGTcT/s1600/20161214_125231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0FbkMT0JvJ2MMkVyBNs5wetKUSFWbbzU5L2hPo80JU99Gxa8kixJYilCDfthyUzJiregJEscjdnGfWOMzdNU-r0hM7amFCDa6rxOFotoNCCCY4GO4l_LCDD1i-on8npDptSzUQawaGTcT/s400/20161214_125231.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">New Zealand has really rubbish locations for running - Cable Bay, Nelson</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<br />Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-6210957573100778552016-11-18T03:41:00.002+00:002016-11-27T01:52:36.867+00:00Taranaki Round the Mountain Solo 100 Mile<div style="text-align: center;">
<h2>
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Taranaki Round the Mountain </span></h2>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">New Zealand</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">100 miles (160km)</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Friday 4 November 2016 at 17:00</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Undulating road</span></h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Preperation went pretty well in October. First I entered the race. Then I went on holiday to the Great Barrier Reef for a week. This was followed by a week in Myanmar and then another in Borneo. Three weeks of sweating, having a dodgy stomach and drinking beer. If anything, I'd prepared too much.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I pretty much entered because both my father and Sarah love to crew me so much. I thought that it might be nice to look at Mount Taranaki. Having seen Mt Rainier, Mt Saint Helena and Mt Hood in July, I then visited an erupting volcano in Vanuatu in August! Seems that I now love volcanoes so much I want to run the entire way around one. With this being a long race and having no training, I warned them that it might get a little ugly. They were still up for it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My father and friend Sarah sorted the race logistics while I worked on my suntan, swam with some turtles and rode on the back of motorbikes. Kit packing was relatively easy given that I do not have much stuff in New Zealand. Even my sister's treatment in Wellington coordinated itself. Father and I created a spreadsheet which I studied on a bus trip to Palmerston North. There, I out-ate my pregnant friend Neisha when we ordered pizza and her husband Chris sorted out my fruit bags. Dad drove up from Wellington after an early flight from Nelson on the Friday morning. We made it to New Plymouth for 14:55. Registration was at 15:00. That was our first clue that no one involved in organising the event had a clue what to do with the solo runners. I couldn't stay for the race breifing as I needed to sort the car kit, get changed, eat and get everything in the right places. As much as I would have loved to meet the other runners; two hours before a 100 mile race was not the best time for it. To me there was the possibility that I would be out on my feet for 27 hours, I did not have an hour to become more confused about race rules.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We rushed to get some food before we had to assemble for a second role call at a hall near the race start. Weirdly, we then had to travel a kilometre down the road to the start line for a third role call. I was so busy french-braiding my hair, doing thy face, touching up the lippy and putting vaseline up my arse that I missed most of these roll calls. With ten minutes to go I scribbled down a food plan for my dad. Liquid every half hour, food every hour. Medium food every two hours. Big food every four hours. A guess of what I'd like for the first twelve hours. Sorted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdL4qdMFcqett-n1ZcBcwb1534wAUjqBIEJ36kVCwbEvLwtH29mDkaA8YO_lrfmfSAqEhrB4aXkMiA8L7NQsS_kQuu4HkDmKRq01Py3cYMM-xXLQvjkuyQEbdzPD8URto2GO6kUWXGoQk/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994414150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdL4qdMFcqett-n1ZcBcwb1534wAUjqBIEJ36kVCwbEvLwtH29mDkaA8YO_lrfmfSAqEhrB4aXkMiA8L7NQsS_kQuu4HkDmKRq01Py3cYMM-xXLQvjkuyQEbdzPD8URto2GO6kUWXGoQk/s400/FB_IMG_1478994414150.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Race start - photo by Di Chesmar</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Kent Road - 17:00 - Friday 4 November - START</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And then we started. Jogging down a small rural road being led by a vehicle with hazard lights on. Amusing given that we were running on the left, therefore were more likely to be hit by a car from behind. It was also the quietest road we would run on all day. And</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> near a crematorium. Maybe they were trying to tell us something.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Highway Three. We run on the right during the light, much to the amusement of the peak hour traffic heading towards us. There were 15 starters and all but four of us took off. Mike Hos, Mgcini, Croydon and myself were left at the back all secretly battling for last place. It was definitely a game of how slow can you go. I walked up everything that vaguely resembled an incline, including speedbumps. The trick was to look ahead, otherwise once you started running the incline, it did not look like an incline anymore. My strategy is CONSERVE. At this point, slow is not slow enough. There is a mini competition amongst the four of us at the rear; who can be the most conservative?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZmVHEstanU7OCVG1yruMaWJiPzOCYYK8wpBtPtXos9n-rkNLj3O_TGigOfQ6a6XD-1yQve5fUOJuZ8FSxqDNXrWYa_ici3yU5P7pcgadD02PsiceB1b3ApYpEPpjSOFsa7vZs0HiNp4K/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994429359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZmVHEstanU7OCVG1yruMaWJiPzOCYYK8wpBtPtXos9n-rkNLj3O_TGigOfQ6a6XD-1yQve5fUOJuZ8FSxqDNXrWYa_ici3yU5P7pcgadD02PsiceB1b3ApYpEPpjSOFsa7vZs0HiNp4K/s400/FB_IMG_1478994429359.jpg" width="260" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Walking break - photo by Di Chesmar</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We take a right turn in Inglewood to follow the highway. Exciting stuff. Our crews were given maps at registration. Naturally they were for the relay race which is following a slightly different route in places. There are also no marshals out until the relay starts at 3am. Fortunately, everyone in the race seems to be experienced and the crews are organised. We are running this race ourselves.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Supporters say that we are doing well. We better be; we've barely started. If you are having trouble now, you'll be in big trouble later. You'll also be in trouble if you get hit by fireworks; a high possibility when a car full of white trash drives past shooting fireworks out their window!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Midhurst - appox. 20:00 - Friday 4 November - 25km</span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Time on feet: 3 hours</span></span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It is cooling down so I put on a long sleeved hi-viz that my friend Anna has let me borrow. There was a bit of borrowing kit for this race. Clouds are falling down the sides of Mount Taranaki. It's a mighty fine mountain; perhaps a little smaller than I was expecting. I've been here before but don't remember it. Tomorrow, I will realise why I have no memory of the mystery mountain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RjOSvwaBmKE8YVmlfYyJYVektnJJYsut2TaCycxka5Ua_DZzhMnlR_SsfGUrIzv_u6yGC-EbM7cxsVtasVV_ivJAk9tmDnMNmK3Hdy5GbQ3FrwADnjzivKwR5Fjdreub3zaKEKmcQjiG/s1600/20161104_193557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RjOSvwaBmKE8YVmlfYyJYVektnJJYsut2TaCycxka5Ua_DZzhMnlR_SsfGUrIzv_u6yGC-EbM7cxsVtasVV_ivJAk9tmDnMNmK3Hdy5GbQ3FrwADnjzivKwR5Fjdreub3zaKEKmcQjiG/s400/20161104_193557.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Erm, another walking break? </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Father has gone to pick up my friend Sarah from the airport. She's flown up from Wellington after a day at work. They call her a smiling assassain at work. Just what I need from a crew member; a telling off with a smile. She offers me a banana. The banana is not on the food plan. I should be getting sushi after four hours. I don't know if it has been four hours yet. I have no watch. We are at least past three hours because she landed at eight. All I can focus on is the sushi...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While my crew are away, Mike's crew have adopted me and are handing me out water and crisps on the hour. Initially there is a slight communication issue.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mike's crew: We're giving you chips at eight o'clock</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me: Ahhhhh (<i>wondering why they are going to give me hot chips)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mike's crew: Your dad gave them to me</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me: Like crisps?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mike's crew: Yeah, chips. Crunch crunch.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He didn't actually say crunch crunch but I am going to be running for a long time and will amuse myself. They were crisps. I had packed them. They were on the food plan. Everyone is winning. By 8:30pm our head torches go on. I do not have my nice head torch in New Zealand so I have a lightweight one which does not emit much light. It doesn't matter though as the whole race is on the road. We have also been given red bicycle lights to wear on our rears. Fortunately I manage to clip mine to the back strap of my head torch without it bobbing about too much. I decide not to carry the glowstick I was given at registration. I am not sure how I am meant to carry that about for 100 miles.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVl7s2UVBpJQi2CWPO1Ro5RDC4mONiRzWC4yDE2ne3a3jrBrQjHc0R0548Qa_7RA_z1pBWF8ThQqvkrXkBSPIXw-ZQZoS8MxPQZGSumTZNBB6264LNWeX8gN5Z5acV-R7AR6hjUh1Kf27r/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994363198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVl7s2UVBpJQi2CWPO1Ro5RDC4mONiRzWC4yDE2ne3a3jrBrQjHc0R0548Qa_7RA_z1pBWF8ThQqvkrXkBSPIXw-ZQZoS8MxPQZGSumTZNBB6264LNWeX8gN5Z5acV-R7AR6hjUh1Kf27r/s400/FB_IMG_1478994363198.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mount Taranaki</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The three boys and I continue to bring up the rear as we weave around Eltham. We walk a long incline around the marathon mark in the dark. Fortunately, I got my sushi about half an hour ago after stomping fiercly that I wanted sushi after four hours. Scotland has rubbish sushi and I am making it my mission to eat as much of it as I can while in New Zealand. We are all back on track and Sarah makes up more sushi for me in the back seat. Every runner has a sushi making kit on the equipment list right? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The boys all have earphones in now. It might have been my shite chat but I try not to take offence. Mike stops to change his shoes on an abnormally high stool, Mgcini has dropped back and Croydon has a walk run strategy to protect his knees in his fourth hundred miler of the year. And I just plodded on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Kaponga - 23:40 - Friday 4 November - 55km<br />Time on feet: 6 hours 40 minutes</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mount Taranaki has disappeared in the darkness. It has been dark for three hours and there are no runners near me now. Croydon's crew come past and park ahead every few kilometres, giving me a cheer as I pass. Father and Sarah stop every half hour to hand over some goods and share a few words of encouragement that fans have left on the Facebook tracking page, aptly named <i>She'll be running round the mountain..</i>. Naturally, a message comes through from Keith Hughes but that's too inappropriate for even my blog.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A Facebook page; there's some pressure to finish now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was widely advertised that there would be breakfast available to all runners and crews at Kaponga. Unfortunately, this did not actually apply to solo runners. Maybe next year the organiser's could put out notes specific to us long haulers? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4KbFO8xLHtlQagNICApNz8L6wkXlHuwFUzzT5jw_8REG4Uf1rxXOMDV6ySxfIRYAvC2wm8q1bQq0nekHX3hlTpksGu54wAbo3fTvbNp2xpsYYUUJIgf9gs0B001o6FL08oDF56I5wbrRt/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994326003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4KbFO8xLHtlQagNICApNz8L6wkXlHuwFUzzT5jw_8REG4Uf1rxXOMDV6ySxfIRYAvC2wm8q1bQq0nekHX3hlTpksGu54wAbo3fTvbNp2xpsYYUUJIgf9gs0B001o6FL08oDF56I5wbrRt/s400/FB_IMG_1478994326003.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Manaia - 69km</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Somewhere in Taranaki - 02:40 - Saturday 5 November - 80km<br />Time on feet: 9 hours 20 minutes</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">HALFWAY! The team share celebrations all around in the form of orange juice mixed with a little sparkling water. I had another three peices of sushi earlier; somewhere nondescript where I was torn between staring at the white line on the road and the stars above. I have run the last four and a half hours without seeing a single runner.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Given my lack of actual running this year, my plan was to get to halfway without feeling like I had been running. And I do feel good. Out in the wilderness, looking at the stars, all on my lonesome.... like camping, but I'm on the road, running. And cows keep scaring the shite out of me. I'll be cruising along, wishing upon shooting stars (for world peace obviously, although that was clearly a waste of time as America decided to vote for Trump) and then MOOOOOOO. But it's not initially a recognisable moo. More of a <i>hehehe little girl, check out our creepy eyes in the darkness. </i>A little freaked out, I pick up the pace.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My father has written the description of this section as <i>imperceptible rolling. </i>I walk when a vehicle lights up the road to show me an incline but the road is quiet now without many vehicles. Some milk tankers roar past, always leaving plenty of space now that I am running on the left hand side. The tankers also courteously dim their lights when they spot me gliding towards them. I am sure I was gliding.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Suddenly, it's pishing down with rain. There has been a little drizzle. A few threatening clouds. I am prepared and have my rain jacket on. Screw you rain. Hood up. Head down. Try not to splash in any puddles. I do not have any spare road running shoes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At about 3am I come past Sarah's car and shine my torch through the window. It can be hard to recognise runners and cars so sometimes we have to give each other a little wave. They are both sleeping inside so I tap the window and tell them that I will see them down the road for my banana. Turns out that they had sat it on the rear windscreen for me to pick up! We arrange for a similar plan at the next half hour pitstop so that they can sleep through for the hour and I can collect water.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Runners spotted since 10pm: 0</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Shooting stars spotted: 3</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bathrooms were a little difficult during the lighter hours of the evening. Fluroscent clothing on highways is a good safety combination. Fluroscent clothing and attempting to use the bathroom in God's acre is not a great combination. But in the dark I confidently wait until I cannot hear any tankers approaching before ducking into a shallow ditch next to the road. Those tankers definitely would not have spotted me... my reflective vest, red rear light and front head torch wouldn't have stood out that brightly in rural blackness right? I sure hope not as I have clearly hydrated well and need to tinkle about six time in the next three hours.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Road cones in the distance. Conveniently located on the road indicating road works. Only one lane is available. This could be interesting. There are some stop-go lights in action. Do I wait at the lights if they are red? Fortunately, I do not have to worry as my gigantic UK size three feet alert the lights to my arrival. Chuckling at my cleverness, or good fortune, or whatever, I cruise along the single lane road. I'm not sure how far I get before I realise that the lights will assume that I am traveling at the speed of a car. Therefore, traffic will soon head in my direction. I really hope that this traffic does not come as I am running across the single lane bridge. Thoughts of people getting hit on bridges at night and falling into the water consume me. So it's time for a wee fartlek as I tear across the bridge. Up on a hill somehwere I can see giant tanker eyes waiting to storm down. I have gone less than 50 metres past the bridge when the tanker comes roaring down, having been given the green light above.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Antonia: 1</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tanker: 0</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXNs5Aa2xbGxPsuGCzyw3X7K6uQC_LtIi67q7HkLTHcJ_A-jHX_duilhAoXc-xMHLYi9uZHlFflWYLSEZrCARYrnOhuPjDCq_lRr25UXLcdMEu-ivPGRmUR_MJcRzb6BqmN51mWVjuRAzL/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994284559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXNs5Aa2xbGxPsuGCzyw3X7K6uQC_LtIi67q7HkLTHcJ_A-jHX_duilhAoXc-xMHLYi9uZHlFflWYLSEZrCARYrnOhuPjDCq_lRr25UXLcdMEu-ivPGRmUR_MJcRzb6BqmN51mWVjuRAzL/s400/FB_IMG_1478994284559.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Team selfie in Opunake - 98km</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Opunake - 05:00 - Saturday 5 November - 100km<br />Time on feet: 12 hours</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've forgotten that there may actually be other people still in this event. I have run alone for seven hours; occassionally shared the romantic star-lit sky with some intimidating cows but mostly just put one foot in front of the other without a bother. And now, with dawn approaching, I may be able to see a red light in the distance ahead. Or is that a red lit up sign? Are we entering a village? No, I think I can see a runner. Is there another red light ahead of that one? Is there a red light in the tree? Is someone going bush? Shite, there are red lights on the road everywhere. My entire vision has turns to red spots. I need to look down for a while, look at the white line. The white line has been my ally for so long.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A bit further along and my vision clears back up. I can see a red light. There is a runner. Just one though, I was bonkers about all the other spots. He's travelling slow but has done this event many times before and will make it to the finish. We jog for a while before I walk with some pumpkin soup that Father and Sarah have lovingly prepared with a gas cooker and billy tin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpYVeNsNfBcwwa-i152tUts1q91G5yVhDv2jtVvgYqzGS0uBk7F1IBxcWlXAa1L6XZW177aQKWTZlM0tapf2Mtbed6BYrNub0qIAv4kMJalKv8PUaAhTcP9c2t3KanWzhkn3mHX-lkB4FY/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994302881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpYVeNsNfBcwwa-i152tUts1q91G5yVhDv2jtVvgYqzGS0uBk7F1IBxcWlXAa1L6XZW177aQKWTZlM0tapf2Mtbed6BYrNub0qIAv4kMJalKv8PUaAhTcP9c2t3KanWzhkn3mHX-lkB4FY/s400/FB_IMG_1478994302881.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Serious water boiling</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbjLw4VqhlKGtHwYI-YcwpzT2H1SwuKMSNTOZm39CifAFzLxeF0f-uOk9gwqzSPDi80O_RsLYY8LeQhQ-NMWKsjBjlHwwqUipCLYWOhnRXqwySk4S5_InYKlVCFdp7b6TrQEPc_tMHbwf/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994268683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbjLw4VqhlKGtHwYI-YcwpzT2H1SwuKMSNTOZm39CifAFzLxeF0f-uOk9gwqzSPDi80O_RsLYY8LeQhQ-NMWKsjBjlHwwqUipCLYWOhnRXqwySk4S5_InYKlVCFdp7b6TrQEPc_tMHbwf/s400/FB_IMG_1478994268683.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Running sunrise </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And then, after no other runners all night, multiple runners. A female runner, Grace from Hong Kong has completed the 100 mile event before. Unfortunately, I don't get to chat as she's busy behind her car when I pass. I do stop and chat with my New Zealand teammate Vivian who had a similar training idea to me; take a holiday in Asia. Unfortunately, she has a head cold and although continues on for another half an hour, eventually needs to pull from the race to sleep the headache off.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At Rahotu the crew hang out with a goat while I hang out in the public toilets. Crisis averted. As the relay has started, checkpoints have now been set up. A young boy holds two cups out as I come past. I mustered a polite <i>no thank you.</i> Turns out, he was not actually offering me a drink. He wants to know my race number. I have to lift up a few layers (it's still threatening rain). I could have riden on the back of a motorbike to this point and no one would have cared. I apologise a number of times for being a daftie. I guess after 14 hours of running, I am feeling a bit tired.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rL95f8PPZC9BrlR9435EZTldLL41TE4PsiqSIo3VN6qb5PbFg2b79PjyNbhs-nCmq7dCBU12F6opHld2BuQ8PF2n1nYf003VveVheSyxhXopxi45UYiK_lG9mqT8xN-eX2Buysqpt-9h/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994249007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rL95f8PPZC9BrlR9435EZTldLL41TE4PsiqSIo3VN6qb5PbFg2b79PjyNbhs-nCmq7dCBU12F6opHld2BuQ8PF2n1nYf003VveVheSyxhXopxi45UYiK_lG9mqT8xN-eX2Buysqpt-9h/s400/FB_IMG_1478994249007.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rahotu local</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdul2E60T1Va5Ivq72QL3ASxDSdWpUVnyHhtQ9-vGltNBQ9Sn8iMOKp3IyrEf9aYxKXd4tsbFM_cxr9ffS-Oe4ZhQgd7hDYX4p3GJ-aD6vfiHgzSg-9rA7E0ALwmFXIbmMAhdGKDEWJc2/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994256265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdul2E60T1Va5Ivq72QL3ASxDSdWpUVnyHhtQ9-vGltNBQ9Sn8iMOKp3IyrEf9aYxKXd4tsbFM_cxr9ffS-Oe4ZhQgd7hDYX4p3GJ-aD6vfiHgzSg-9rA7E0ALwmFXIbmMAhdGKDEWJc2/s400/FB_IMG_1478994256265.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Team selfie</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Pungarehu - 07:45 - Saturday 5 November - 118km<br />Time on feet: 14 hours 45 minutes</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Marathon to go! I am definitely finishing this thing even if I have to walk the final marathon. Which I am not going to do. But my legs are sore. And the news of a marathon to go is not as exciting as I had hoped. I ask to be told when I have 20km to go. As it is daylight, we run on the righthand side of the road again. My left leg and foot welcome this change. The camber of the road is harsh after a whole night.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I want to talk to Scott but the reception is not good enough. Fortunately I catch up to Perry and have my first conversation on the run since 10pm. Talking miles are free miles. Perry has run around New Zealand and across the USA. He's completed this event twice; it's like a mile jog to him. We take it easy on the inclines. Previously I have powered up hills when walking but I do not have that kind of fitness anymore. Stomping up a hill would take just as much out of my legs as jogging up it would. He's got a dodgy stomach and I've got dodgy legs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The miles become less free and more labouring. I have not had a run down of mileage throughout and asked the crew only to tell me the following markers; marathon, halfway. 100km mark and a marathon to go. Perry knows the area and he knows how far we have to go. Between 120 and 130km it gets harder and harder for me. I am limping.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzm323fbv07JH6ydyQiKDqR8jTMTu8HXoaPWGvJR_bObWLe33dXiwqDID2X0wjGklKd8NpofBAn56y2-tR85ZCUMucTFu_GziPDNZv-usXpU27sYo6aqolmlZTiPirj90Qlpo_dew2D7Dr/s1600/IMG_4531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzm323fbv07JH6ydyQiKDqR8jTMTu8HXoaPWGvJR_bObWLe33dXiwqDID2X0wjGklKd8NpofBAn56y2-tR85ZCUMucTFu_GziPDNZv-usXpU27sYo6aqolmlZTiPirj90Qlpo_dew2D7Dr/s400/IMG_4531.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Less happy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I need to stop for a cry. I am not quitting, I just need a CRY. So I stand in the road, put my head in my hands and try a wee wail. And I order a coffee. But the type of coffee in the car won't do. My crew will need to buy one.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There is no mountain. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Perry is faster than me at running now but sticks with me, even when I hide in a hotel toilet for a while. I cry as I ask the lady if I can use the bathroom. She daren't say no. When I am hiding, the first relay team comes past. I didn't see him but I imagine he caught us slowly and barely managed to get past us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Relays started at about 3am. Each team seemed to contain about a thousand runners. The road is also very busy now with relay cars coming past in both directions. Some cheer, others are probably wondering how such slow runners got in front of their team. I suspect most are oblivious to the solo event's existence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Warm liquid feeling on my foot. No, I have not peed myself! I think that was a blister popping. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When my coffee arrives I have to force Perry to continue on without me. He's had a choolate milkshake and a lemonade popsicle and his stomach is feeling better. What a combination. My stomach feels worse just thinking about the milkshake. I'm giving it the <i>there's too far to go waiting for another runner all the time, go Perry, go! </i>and he's giving it the <i>we've got about 30km to go, I've run 5,000 before... </i>Except he's not actually saying that because he's a really nice guy. He eventually goes ahead and I walk with a coffee. From now on, I will only eat jet plane sweeties.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Okato - 10:00 - Saturday 5 November - 132km<br />Time on feet: 17 hours</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">FLYING. Like those jet plane sweeties have taken me under their wings and I am off. Unfortunately, not far up the road, Perry is a different kind of off. He's leant over a railing, staggering about. I'm listing the different fizzy bevereges I have in Sarah's car. At the top of the hill, Perry crosses to get sorted out with his crew man. Rain starts pouring down. I am running the fastest I have all day but still walking the hills (albeit, a bit faster also). This is so much fun! Weeee!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I did run 4km on a treadmill in Borneo. All that hard work is clearly paying off for me now. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I fly into Sarah's home beach town of Oakura. There is a checkpoint here too. They want my number and that is uber cool with me. Except that it is a four digit number and that's too many numbers for me to have memorized at this point. I grab some water as I suspect I have been to fast for Father and Sarah so will likely miss them. Oakura was the only place anybody was actually out cheering so it was quite busy. Fortunately, I spot Sarah practicing yoga moves on her car roof and yell out for some jet planes and water further up the road. Or it may have been cola. Aparently I was super happy to be riding a sugar high.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Omata - Saturday 5 November - 152km<br />Time on feet: a bloody long time</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I am crying again. I actually ran through Omata with tears. There were so many hills between Oakura and Omata. Neisha's husband Chris had seen the course description and told me the hills were big here. And now my legs have gone all jelly for running. And the high is all gone. And waaaaaaaaaaaah. Walking up the hills is not the problem; it's trying to run again once I am off them. A relay team must be catching me as their runners keep cheering for me. I hope I managed to smile a little as it was nice of them to give me support.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There is still no mountain. It was all a lie. Everyone is lying to me. They put these hills here on purpose. And they hurt my foot. It's all a conspiracy. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With about 7km to go I see a guy up ahead who I think is Perry. Given that Perry is behind me, I am slightly confused. I am also in a lot of pain. I feel terrible when I pass the non-Perry runner with only a brief hello or well done. I would normally stop and have a chat, see if there is anything I can offer the runner. He's going to make it now though. As I finish my water bottle, I hold it up high for my crew to get it. Then I drop it on the grass. Like I was in a marathon and couldn't wait for them. But really, my foot hurts so much that I don't know how I am going to run to the finish. Even hills hurt it. So many hills.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Father told me it was about 40 minutes to go. He's a dick. It's been ages. I'm not going to talk to him anymore.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDLznKIphxDwF-tQhLIByaAARnVxUBB8zDvm0SdLNgKrikmc1IHLlgsbJwNj1cFs_ll2q-7rAL0pixjMlwq8kuPKb8Lp5FRrCCn3QSSMDB4nMoaqHt-TZ3eWGbymiN3877m2hTSyYwjaDk/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994207707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDLznKIphxDwF-tQhLIByaAARnVxUBB8zDvm0SdLNgKrikmc1IHLlgsbJwNj1cFs_ll2q-7rAL0pixjMlwq8kuPKb8Lp5FRrCCn3QSSMDB4nMoaqHt-TZ3eWGbymiN3877m2hTSyYwjaDk/s400/FB_IMG_1478994207707.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Omata - 8km to go</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spotswood - 12:40 - Saturday 5 November - 155km<br />Time on feet: 19 hours 40 minutes</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5km to go. I asked the lady at the checkpoint how far it was. She was smiling; <i>oh, about five. </i>There's no room for <i>about, </i>lady. It better not be a smidgen over or she'll be getting the wrath of me. I see Sarah and Father (it's all that guys fault, we're probably not even related) for the final time. I don't want anything. Go away. Make it all stop. My foot HURTS. But I still might kick you with it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I would say that this is my slowest 5km ever but let's be honest; I've staggered some pretty bloody slow kilometres in my life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I come into New Plymouth, marshals are out at each road crossing. Only five solo runners and two relay teams have come through before me in the last four hours so the marshals are pretty bored on lookout. I maverick the roads myself, holding up my arm so cars let me across. The cars are cool about it. I'm not sure how the drivers feel. I must look a mess. I can't stop, must shuffle across roads.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All I can see up ahead are the hi-viz dots of marshals. That's a long way to shuffle.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Marshal: are you okay?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me: NO</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He doesn't offer a solution to my pain. I cry at a couple of them. I<i>s it much further? Is it much further? </i>Their answers are WRONG because any step is too far. Two relays teams pass me. Great support from the runners who have passed me. Fly boys, fly! Thank goodness they were nice or I might have told them where they could shove their 5k sprints. <i> </i> One marshal at a big intersection tells me that he will walk me across the road. So, because I am strange, sleep-deprived and exhausted, I cling to this guy like a new puppy. Walking right next to him as he moves cones, further than I have to go because I no later trust my own judgement and am done with mavericking. I suspect he was slightly worried.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How much longer to go? </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have a very sore foot.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
Left turn. Hill. Yay! This is the last one. I'm not bloody running. The finishing line is on grass. After 20 hours of road running, my legs don't know how to do grass. I shuffle in. There are not many people at the finish line; a few relay teams that passed me, Father, Sarah (who was making enough noise for a whole crowd) and my friend Zalena who I have not seen since before I moved to Scotland. The girls' doing the announcing were great and even commented that Sarah's enthusiasm for coming first lady was greater than my own. I am so pleased that the race is over now. I get down on my hands and knees to crawl out of the rain. I won't walk for a few days.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5irB8_DEdxXU9zWJcr-Pp3kYGfwv8VpWOcS0FUEkx20pdA2JWoWnkM_-qvSRfUmVl_tVshcsh-renhrSBU_B10R0t6kibiceww7S7BqiKIIThC7z2jET_zez2ffjIWg0AogN1ygziGJB/s1600/20161105_132148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5irB8_DEdxXU9zWJcr-Pp3kYGfwv8VpWOcS0FUEkx20pdA2JWoWnkM_-qvSRfUmVl_tVshcsh-renhrSBU_B10R0t6kibiceww7S7BqiKIIThC7z2jET_zez2ffjIWg0AogN1ygziGJB/s400/20161105_132148.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is what 100 miles looks like</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfdyQ-sFGGHgdLTespjTjMq3_r8w7lIwPkzMUCX3xLNfyZQoJmYtMFDyWoedPJjIfxweM9eyk1cKjkj9TQ-5DWOnn9lG2yK46STJe4zjV2HG3eIZDBGti699frE0ynpE5MZ_Lk78nW_aj/s1600/FB_IMG_1478994179205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfdyQ-sFGGHgdLTespjTjMq3_r8w7lIwPkzMUCX3xLNfyZQoJmYtMFDyWoedPJjIfxweM9eyk1cKjkj9TQ-5DWOnn9lG2yK46STJe4zjV2HG3eIZDBGti699frE0ynpE5MZ_Lk78nW_aj/s400/FB_IMG_1478994179205.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thanks team! </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I stumbled over the line in 20 hours 20 minutes, meeting our aim of finishing and exceeding anything we'd thought timewise (22 hours optimistic, 24 hours realistic, 27 hours pesimistic). It's not a particularly fast 100 mile time but it was fast enough for me! The guy I passed walking comes across the line not long after. Unfortunately, his finish is overshadowed by a relay team who pass him as he finishes. It is a shame that the team did not hang back and allow him the cheer he deserved for running solo. Once I am sat down having a beer (note; the beer selection was terrible) I am saddened to find that Perry's stomach got even worse and he had to pull from the race with about 15km to go. When you are so violently ill that you lose your false teeth; I don't think there is any way to continue. He'll be back, running across whatever country you live in some time soon no doubt! Croydon finishes his fourth 100-miler of the year an hour later and Mike Hos completes his first ever! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At prizegiving I receive my first belt buckle as this is my first 100 miler. Unfortunately I do not receive $1000 as there need to be five entrants in a category, despite the solo runners doubling in size this year. And anyway, there were so many sunglasses, televisions, treadmills and holidays to give out to the 5km relay runners. there was nothing left for us hard-core soloists! Mgcini crosses the finish line during the prizegiving and gets a bit cheer. They should have got him up on the stage! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A HUGE, HUGE thank you to my Father and Sarah for offering to put themselves through this with me! Father; for his crewing and post statistics enthusiasm. Thank you for not taking any bad moods personally. Sarah; for her cheering and social networking enthusiasm on little sleep. Thank you for helping strip me naked post run and then carrying me to brunch. Some firendhships know no barriers! </span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Stats</span></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">22 hours 20 minutes</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">6th overall, 1st lady</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">15 starters (12 male, three female)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">13 finishers (</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">11 male, two female)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One mountain</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Runners please! </span></span></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This event could be so good... it just needs an ultra runner to take charge! Fortunately all the runners and crews in the solo event were experienced so it ran smoothly and we had a great time. BUT, it would be great to get some of the small villages involved, support some of their local businesses in the wee hours and rely less on our crew. The relay seems to be a great event and the solo concept is brilliant... it just requires a little more love. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On another note, can New Zealand do less spot prizes and better beers at races please? Priorities folks! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0Mt. Taranaki, Taranaki 4391, New Zealand-39.2967702 174.06339930000001-64.8188047 132.75480530000002 -13.774735699999997 -144.62800670000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-15946971244804657072016-09-16T04:18:00.000+01:002016-09-16T04:18:35.130+01:00Marton to Wanganui Relay (or ultra)<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There is a place in New Zealand's North Island called Marton. There is another place, 30-something kilometres away by a <i>main</i> road, called Wanganui. If you decide to take the <i>country</i> road between the two buzzing metropoles, the journey will take you a pleasureable 66km. And that is the prefered route of the Wanganui Harrier Club who organise a relay between the two towns. <i>Note; despite the joyous experience I had between these two villages, there really is no need to visit either town if you are a tourist in New Zealand. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
I emailed the race organiser, Bill, on the Tuesday before the race asking if I could enter but would need to give him my entry form and payment on the day. I received a very friendly reply and was in the race. I wish all ultras would be this straightforward to enter.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJ2Ox3pu7Xku6FjJPdlN3eNF8llK5u3wRzQCtX0VLzEe4fgy6ZuSPUQ2NM_0R-X7owYimqiIOdPg9uU7MV-l3dq_do4e92iELQGzYbe501_n0E6C-76bPa38WB_oyzEm5L7-Vw1VmFHZi/s1600/moments_47EF63EC-6980-4C6C-8CA5-3B6A3908EE7B_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJ2Ox3pu7Xku6FjJPdlN3eNF8llK5u3wRzQCtX0VLzEe4fgy6ZuSPUQ2NM_0R-X7owYimqiIOdPg9uU7MV-l3dq_do4e92iELQGzYbe501_n0E6C-76bPa38WB_oyzEm5L7-Vw1VmFHZi/s400/moments_47EF63EC-6980-4C6C-8CA5-3B6A3908EE7B_hi_res.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pre race selfie</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span id="goog_603348796"></span><span id="goog_603348797"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
<b><u>Race Details</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b>
Marton to Wanganui at a distance 66km.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Flat road with some inclines and gravel.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ten relay legs with either ten person teams (we will call them big teams), three person teams, pairs or solo runners. There are also composite teams which involves some people running legs and some people walking legs. Do not ask me which legs were for running or walking. And finally there were solo walkers and teams. Starting times were as follows;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">7am - solo walkers and walking teams</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">8am - three person teams, pairs, solos an composite teams</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">9:30am - big teams</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<u><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Marton to Wanganui</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><b><br /></b></u>
We made it to Marton from Wellington after departing at 5:10am. One of my crew, Sarah, was still on the dancefloor at 11pm on the Friday night so I was relieved when she bounced into the bathroom in the wee hours full of energy for the two hour drive. We picked up my second crew member, Neisha, from Bulls. Neisha was roped into supporting at 10pm the night before when Sarah was still out dancing. <i> Note; Bulls is definitely a must-stop for tourists. Not only is the whole name-thing hilarious (the town like no udder is unforgetabull) but their public toilets are also top quality. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7i4c_T7JVUD9Ysfa4TaAujbotx4q1A_e3oA0umTqmiBoWQjDcSQYTwnRbtc4F6HXwEAEseWLVSi4aQYHPb-gIRemUbvSPtMFd8B532rtTatI6ZyymEe6vt5B2NsMFyb3IrVEt9R27U3a9/s1600/Screenshot_2016-09-10-18-03-30.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7i4c_T7JVUD9Ysfa4TaAujbotx4q1A_e3oA0umTqmiBoWQjDcSQYTwnRbtc4F6HXwEAEseWLVSi4aQYHPb-gIRemUbvSPtMFd8B532rtTatI6ZyymEe6vt5B2NsMFyb3IrVEt9R27U3a9/s400/Screenshot_2016-09-10-18-03-30.png" width="225" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
<i><span id="goog_991851988"></span><span id="goog_991851989"></span><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
A bunch of us wearing various coloured numbers started off from Marton Park. I was number 2080-something; a number which did not reflect the number of participants in the solo event. A few runners went off fast but we mostly all plodded. I guessed I was somewhere in the middle; having no idea who was running what. I was quickly lured by an interesting yellow vest and started running with my new bestie; Peter from Palmerston North. And so began our journey of friendship.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJUuiIWD0GMIBulOpDfe-WDP6dfCZNuZT0ksLCaWAX6PuCj6UEWuvhUqOYKrQecVgjl9PqrdEgV9aJQXF0X7Vyws8PB1gDC99h7hqX7T70dUUAEb9kuW7XSLfBoA_Go-99nxa0LsCLUB9d/s1600/moments_B4FCA14C-2FE9-4D04-A5A4-95F3C75317AE_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJUuiIWD0GMIBulOpDfe-WDP6dfCZNuZT0ksLCaWAX6PuCj6UEWuvhUqOYKrQecVgjl9PqrdEgV9aJQXF0X7Vyws8PB1gDC99h7hqX7T70dUUAEb9kuW7XSLfBoA_Go-99nxa0LsCLUB9d/s400/moments_B4FCA14C-2FE9-4D04-A5A4-95F3C75317AE_hi_res.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Peter and I tearing up the tarmac</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Being part of a relay is exciting; even when you are not part of the relay. Cars and vans came past offering support and liquids. As the roads were quiet, they could stop and chat to their team members. Sarah and Neisha (hereby refered to as my A-team crew ladies) took longer than other team vehicles to come past. This is because they stood at the approximate 2km mark for a considerable length of time, with pom poms in hand, before realising that all the runners had already been past. I also did not initially recognise them as Sarah turned a corner rather quickly at one point on our morning drive while I was attempting to put my contact lenses in. The lenses flew out and were lost to the car floor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Peter was in a three person team and a repeat offender at this event. I declined his team member's offer of a snake sweetie. Risk of choking on those bad boys for me. That is why I ate all of them out of the pick and mix the night before. Peter and I jogged through the first leg together without a worry. We solved numerous world problems while I ate my whole bag of apple and mandarin segments. The A-team crew ladies executed a flawless first checkpoint, with Neisha (at six months pregnant) handing me my water and then jogging alongside me with my food while I handed back my water to Sarah who was waiting further down the road. The A-team crew ladies' first crewing experience and they were nailing it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
The second leg went as straightforward as the first. Everyone around us seemed pretty consistent and we all jogged on down the country road. At one point there was a lamb on the loose who refused to let me ride it. Fortunately, the cars supporting the race all seemed sensible and I am sure that the lamb did not become edible via it's roadkill status.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">At the start of leg three, I lost Peter as his female team mate took over and I ran a distance behind her and some others for some time. Sometimes I was a little chilly in my t-shirt with the wind and other times I was a little warm. The A-team crew ladies would drive past screaming out the window; mostly words of support. They stopped at numerous places and would jump out at me waving pom poms while we attempted to take selfies. It was serious business.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8gdVLStY-kzJZ4OOJwACEDGmvieqfajyS4QMCRY6zTSzAx-FRL3r6tXZY9YWI62bVNRIZBCxAcvCQHi43Zbwz-SepFD7-R2dYcAJ1j4ALx4krqPrKN8hC95sBLZSqosMXfp9Xa-X0PW_4/s1600/moments_0BF97E91-4E6F-4318-A2C7-E1B7A6C3D174_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8gdVLStY-kzJZ4OOJwACEDGmvieqfajyS4QMCRY6zTSzAx-FRL3r6tXZY9YWI62bVNRIZBCxAcvCQHi43Zbwz-SepFD7-R2dYcAJ1j4ALx4krqPrKN8hC95sBLZSqosMXfp9Xa-X0PW_4/s400/moments_0BF97E91-4E6F-4318-A2C7-E1B7A6C3D174_hi_res.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Team selfie</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6iHcRHTICzuy1J5s3PSfbbys51xukJ1huBxJHGs7DYVozywa8BN3c-OPKsBRl7pl0z1sij1yr3q9eWA-EWsd9qmR2YulhsFT-CcNWpx8pYp6Ga7UDyU4JofGMxUjqXLGQsxwnt1SyxE48/s1600/moments_A5F26402-81B3-444E-8B49-2D53F64A0FAC_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6iHcRHTICzuy1J5s3PSfbbys51xukJ1huBxJHGs7DYVozywa8BN3c-OPKsBRl7pl0z1sij1yr3q9eWA-EWsd9qmR2YulhsFT-CcNWpx8pYp6Ga7UDyU4JofGMxUjqXLGQsxwnt1SyxE48/s400/moments_A5F26402-81B3-444E-8B49-2D53F64A0FAC_hi_res.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I caught a guy wearing a Nathan backpack assuming that he was also doing the solo. He was running in the pairs but training for Tarawera. He was taking on electrolytes. I was going to down some orange juice at the next checkpoint. So far I had been eating my prepared bags at each checkpoint; either apples and mandarins, trail mix with sweeties, bananas or crisps.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Each leg had been allocated a rating of easy, medium or hard with a short description and the distance. The only one that I could remember was that leg seven was a short 2.5km leg because it was all uphill. To my brain, this meant that the other legs would incur some slight undulations but no long hills. Upon jogging leg four I realised that this was an inaccurate assumption. There was a sharpish hill, later followed by a long gradual climb. As I passed striped vest runner (possible also in a three person relay as I had seen one of his team mates earlier and would see another later) and he commented that he had been told that this was a flat leg! We got to the top of a long climb only to realise that the road was a hairpin and still climbing. I was in great spirits but feared it would be a challenging 66km if there were a bunch more of these climbs. I had estimated that the race might take about seven hours but it may take me longer if it keeps going like this.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Upon finishing leg four, Peter and his third team mate were asking me if I had passed a girl; which I had not. Unfortunately, their female team mate who had been in front of me had not yet finished her leg. She was lost. There had been a t-junction earlier on that leg and a crew car had pointed me in the right direction. She had likely gone right there instead of left. With that established, and with a mouthful of crisps, I carried on. The A-team crew ladies sent my husband Scott the following message; <i>A runner is lost. It is not Antonia</i>. A proud moment for the family.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8sY-hy0KwUUSP9nYmpt9-r0NRUbiYgT6lQsTSVwB3oh3jGlvgUpe22m9c0lnVrEizFIbDoYJn-zQOZbpHX0MIsWH9Tcepg0blTZMAUsyoikcoDJ1v_f35qMrdWTeT4-dHNbNr6YyA3Ba/s1600/moments_5B72AF69-657C-43E1-9846-F22969AC915D_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8sY-hy0KwUUSP9nYmpt9-r0NRUbiYgT6lQsTSVwB3oh3jGlvgUpe22m9c0lnVrEizFIbDoYJn-zQOZbpHX0MIsWH9Tcepg0blTZMAUsyoikcoDJ1v_f35qMrdWTeT4-dHNbNr6YyA3Ba/s400/moments_5B72AF69-657C-43E1-9846-F22969AC915D_hi_res.jpg" width="223" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It looks like Sarah is shouting at me and I am about to cry</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTss4WGJi6KNBf8xMjvoUv1Aj_UCuiQV7YLnebQRMoKlNDNyvEWaa36dZ0dBdBU6GdtMnDIKj0DBdS9taR__4wZ89fZmohL3dUR2lDI0wT2wM44IbJWrvCB94U77LsIwQZTF23SwvLa1k/s1600/moments_85896C09-68EE-4FC3-A75C-F322F13C6D1A_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTss4WGJi6KNBf8xMjvoUv1Aj_UCuiQV7YLnebQRMoKlNDNyvEWaa36dZ0dBdBU6GdtMnDIKj0DBdS9taR__4wZ89fZmohL3dUR2lDI0wT2wM44IbJWrvCB94U77LsIwQZTF23SwvLa1k/s400/moments_85896C09-68EE-4FC3-A75C-F322F13C6D1A_hi_res.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Holding up traffic by dancing on a bridge</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4DtpNf5Qo8BUez9XpuA0wNBoS9YQLgCfNaLBWauT10oqhlf-89UnpCZZgxoWCqdx5qcG35NQ4TNlw9YRDAGvCUePN2alUVjj3jJbiFIhOAwloQknoOP7B2gPt0gk7WH1yeA-AvzDqJgBo/s1600/moments_9F56ABF3-94A8-4079-964D-6285272F41C2_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4DtpNf5Qo8BUez9XpuA0wNBoS9YQLgCfNaLBWauT10oqhlf-89UnpCZZgxoWCqdx5qcG35NQ4TNlw9YRDAGvCUePN2alUVjj3jJbiFIhOAwloQknoOP7B2gPt0gk7WH1yeA-AvzDqJgBo/s400/moments_9F56ABF3-94A8-4079-964D-6285272F41C2_hi_res.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Trying to outrun a pregnant lady</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Leg five was to be a shorter, easier leg. I appreciated striped team's runner jogging along to a speaker playing Rod Stewart. Sweet beats. The A-team crew ladies were driving next to me as I completed leg five, taking us all by surprise and evoking panic with the ladies. I told them just to meet me further down the road with my snacks, playing it relaxed while they pondered their futures as crew members.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">By this time, I had started passing walkers. Whether they were solo walkers, walking teams or composite team walkers, I have no idea. I gave them all encouragement on the way past and they all gave some back. A very friendly bunch. There were repeated requests for me to catch the <i>old fella</i> running further ahead; Peter's third team mate. It was a little soon in the race for me to go crazy on the legs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxg6Bx6qI5SzS0VfGq4IyEpiv2alKsHucTInpgqOIZHmDkE2rf5KZZqGLc1a17GFBDs7N0wkVewpEDYenTUwJd6ZrTFB2U0phTseF4LzjeP75m-hIUCySXkGY2kyQEJ6fYQA1c959e5CLp/s1600/moments_B0AEA326-88D8-42F6-8EC2-197070C3DF1F_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxg6Bx6qI5SzS0VfGq4IyEpiv2alKsHucTInpgqOIZHmDkE2rf5KZZqGLc1a17GFBDs7N0wkVewpEDYenTUwJd6ZrTFB2U0phTseF4LzjeP75m-hIUCySXkGY2kyQEJ6fYQA1c959e5CLp/s400/moments_B0AEA326-88D8-42F6-8EC2-197070C3DF1F_hi_res.jpg" width="223" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Leg seven; hill time. So after running a marathon, you then run up a hill. I told the A-team crew ladies that I would probably walk up the hill. They were not having it and preceded to tell me that I would be running the whole way up. But they didn't understand, all the runners around me were in teams and I was by myself so I could not go as fast as them up the hills. <i>No excuses</i> they screamed, waving their pom poms at me in the most threatening manner that pom poms can be waved. So other than a bathroom stop in God's acre on the way up, I ran the whole way up. And by run, I plodded slowly up. As I reached what I thought was the summit, a supporter called out that the hill would start around the corner. There was no way I would be able to continue plodding if it got any steeper. Fortunately, he was telling a porky pie and I had conquered leg seven. There was a roar of support at the top from both the A-team crew ladies and other support crews.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZRDf63bfrBcH-eXyTEZZH6UzrhHVXOlNU_G1RSJMZ98T7fHO8Rf76M4QJ2NusqMuIwEojAobZn9QIo9CkMgB9E1zPrUB6IxjIIRNiZA5amgDV9dP246KP0akpuyEAMi8GZBlyKKrKIE9/s1600/moments_0C1CC3E9-583C-497D-BD07-DFE2DB37A7EB_hi_res.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZRDf63bfrBcH-eXyTEZZH6UzrhHVXOlNU_G1RSJMZ98T7fHO8Rf76M4QJ2NusqMuIwEojAobZn9QIo9CkMgB9E1zPrUB6IxjIIRNiZA5amgDV9dP246KP0akpuyEAMi8GZBlyKKrKIE9/s400/moments_0C1CC3E9-583C-497D-BD07-DFE2DB37A7EB_hi_res.mp4" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The A-team crew ladies shake their pom poms at the top of the hill</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I had to dig deeper for leg eight. There were some long straights and some undulations that seemed harder now that my legs were a bit tired from the hill. The A-team crew ladies did manage to take an epic selfie of the three of us while they were driving and I was running. Some talent there. There was also some talent in the walker's race, with some of them absolutely storming it. I think that race walking is so much harder on the cardiovascular than jogging. Approaching the end of leg eight I went to continue down the country road but was fortunately told to make a right turn onto a gravel road by some crew cars. Everyone was great at helping each other out in this event.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">While Sarah put a daffidol in my braid I stopped and drank some coke. I was eating a little less but fortunately with 66km it would not matter if I did not stay on top of nutrition; I knew that I would get through and I was not going to walk any of it as I had run all the way up that hill. I limped out to start leg nine with a relay runner of some description passing me. I enjoyed the first dirt gravel section with curled downhill. The next undulating gravel section was also enjoyable when I could run in the car grooves. Not many cars were allowed to enter this section because it is only a single-track road. When a car did come up behind me I had to run on the lump of loose gravel and it was tricky for my now-tired legs to work extra hard in the gravel like this. The A-team ladies came past blaring a shared favourite from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack; <i>I've had the time of my life...</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-VIFGVbxH_pJcGahI9iiqiEUfa8hxBqKVx6zAlOhgmazMtL95H7ppjnMs-3NkxJAVZr1qVsqy2Z92pgom6W8AgQa_v3QRWLWZ6hWVoSlx9b_ooaX8OO4qCeRPU088Rnud9HgHL2g28EAW/s1600/moments_137BD8B8-9AB3-4206-81EC-A3D03578587D_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-VIFGVbxH_pJcGahI9iiqiEUfa8hxBqKVx6zAlOhgmazMtL95H7ppjnMs-3NkxJAVZr1qVsqy2Z92pgom6W8AgQa_v3QRWLWZ6hWVoSlx9b_ooaX8OO4qCeRPU088Rnud9HgHL2g28EAW/s400/moments_137BD8B8-9AB3-4206-81EC-A3D03578587D_hi_res.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
Another runner passed me near the start of leg nine also, giving me lots of support as he passed just as he had throughout the day as a spectator. Unfortunately, his crew member kept stopping her car and I had to keep running in the loose gravel and was having trouble. I passed a lady who may have been in the pairs event who seemed to be having a good time but also experiencing the same difficulties with the car. I picked up the pace a little as we came off the gravel as I could see some cars parked in the distance and thought that must be the end of the leg. It wasn't and the plod until the end of the leg felt very long. The A-team crew ladies were stopped at a t-junction to ensure I went the right way.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Three of the big relay teams had passed me so far. You could tell them apart from the smaller relay teams as they flew past in their club vests having started 90 minutes behind me. These were the only runners too exhausted on their 7km legs to acknowledge the support I gave them as they passed. Fortunately for them, I did not lose my manners on the 60+km I had so far ran.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You will all be delighted to know that the daffidol has not yet fallen out of my braid although my husband is now drunk in Scotland and sending incoherent texts. Unknown to myself the A-team crew ladies had been keeping the world updated on my progress through Snapchat. Not easy given the lack of reception in this rural area of the world.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I entered the start of the final leg I squealed with delight! The previous leg had been almost 9km and felt it whereas Neisha informed me that I only had five-something kms to go on the final leg! They could not get a park at the checkpoint as all the big teams were now there in their vans, not cheering for me. I wanted to tell them that I had run the <i>whole bloody thing</i> but fortunately, I still had those manners. I did get a cheer from a passing car who understood my running distance which elevated me back to premium spirits. Later they would give me a box of Maltesers :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELtuAKd_-QiYBG9AhRk0Sj_ZbZg6y-xlokg3ZSVEgGgpJ5M9ZywnKriCWq0VweekVZtWYjpa7-3jW74zv0tQkSgq9bS6dz3odqaFhvwnhTklDvqOULdJnas4WLkQfpxAroww71GHoNhn2/s1600/moments_161AFDBF-63F2-45B7-A474-36DA5ADA34BB_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELtuAKd_-QiYBG9AhRk0Sj_ZbZg6y-xlokg3ZSVEgGgpJ5M9ZywnKriCWq0VweekVZtWYjpa7-3jW74zv0tQkSgq9bS6dz3odqaFhvwnhTklDvqOULdJnas4WLkQfpxAroww71GHoNhn2/s400/moments_161AFDBF-63F2-45B7-A474-36DA5ADA34BB_hi_res.jpg" width="223" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Probably Coke's next pin up girl</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_4po4wIxq1vfpYJ2dt6gfwSk_mm7_4zaSh7WndboyVyzPGce0Y0i-C5PgQKI3Hz8Otwrmj_OPzvESpxrr8EEppuy41ZclynO-rkkiJUoKDa-43QvCkuZBPpovfe_vqWlq1tI5C1-S7In/s1600/moments_75C7570B-7122-4161-BE4C-6240AD4B7177_hi_res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_4po4wIxq1vfpYJ2dt6gfwSk_mm7_4zaSh7WndboyVyzPGce0Y0i-C5PgQKI3Hz8Otwrmj_OPzvESpxrr8EEppuy41ZclynO-rkkiJUoKDa-43QvCkuZBPpovfe_vqWlq1tI5C1-S7In/s400/moments_75C7570B-7122-4161-BE4C-6240AD4B7177_hi_res.jpg" width="223" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Not knowing the course, I decided to wait before bruning the last of the legs. I figured I had about ten minutes of fast running in me so did not want to waste it too early. The last leg was flat but the roads were long and straight. I did not see a single runner but almost got hit by numerous cars coming towards me. These were not event-affiliated vehicles (they were very considerate) but probably locals who did not want dafties such as myself jogging along their streets.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The A-team crew ladies were parked at another junction and pointed me across a bridge rather the continue straight along the road. There were good instructions for each leg but I could not remember all ten. The road turned right and then, bam, there is the finish line. I hear the girls screaming in the car next to me and glance left to see them abandon it next to the road and then run across in front of cars so that they can finish with me. There is much excitement. I take an age having a Dundee shower and putting on warm clothes before confusing the coffee cart by ordering an espresso on the rocks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">At the prizegiving I find that I have come first overall, having beaten all the men and finishing in six hours and eight minutes. According to past results, I believe this means that I have the fastest female time to date. I do not think that any solo runners would have had a clue where they came as I did not meet any in the race. I may have passed one somewhere after the hill as he was struggling but it is hard to tell. Thank you to the long table of intoxicated runners and walkers in front of us who gave me a big cheer when my name was announced. I think that they won one of the team events after 14 years of trying. Love the persistence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I did manage to win a spot prize but unfortunately the wine was all gone. Luckily I had packed a cheeky can for the road. A Garage Project Lola; cheery cola beer. I feel like it was made for ultras.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A huge that you to Bill and the other race organisers who put the event on. It was a great day with great people; relaxed, friendly fun. Also, a huge thank you to Sarah and Neisha who were phenomenal at their debut crewing duties and definitely the most enthusiatic out there on the day!</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DkFlc6rxXIZn6jCyAl5FQY5gL73VT946s7BzDxUEH1teAG0BiQpngf1soU4bM8OQNsLj3lbtCTSM9efJfwMmszvKxXicoFY3KZJIQaIsoUrp3nqPeT7B0QUTxJTyVhfCCzPTHQrB-ZJa/s1600/received_10157509864240002.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DkFlc6rxXIZn6jCyAl5FQY5gL73VT946s7BzDxUEH1teAG0BiQpngf1soU4bM8OQNsLj3lbtCTSM9efJfwMmszvKxXicoFY3KZJIQaIsoUrp3nqPeT7B0QUTxJTyVhfCCzPTHQrB-ZJa/s400/received_10157509864240002.jpeg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Team finish</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i><span id="goog_381704"></span><span id="goog_381705"></span><br /></i>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com1Whanganui, New Zealand-39.9300887 175.04789010000002-40.027504199999996 174.88652860000002 -39.8326732 175.20925160000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-63730719869775532512016-09-02T09:21:00.002+01:002016-09-02T10:48:18.962+01:00St Cuthbert's Way <div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">St Cuthbert's Way Ultra<br /><br />Trail Outlaws</span></b></div>
<div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br />Saturday 16th July 2016</span></b></div>
<div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br />Holy Island to Melrose - 100km</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Fittingly for a cross border run, I have failed to write my blog due to being in several countries. There was a wedding in Seattle, a beer festival in Portland, some rock hiking in Vancouver, a sister's wedding in Wellington, some cockel collecting in rural New Zealand, a beach holiday in Fiji, some burger tasting back in Wellington and finally some volcano climbing in Vanuatu. I did write this originally sitting in a Fijian airport waiting for my friend Mareta to arrive. Unfortunately, my first effort got lost in the cyber ocean. </span></div>
</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Initially there was some confusion over St Cuthbert's Way and St Oswald's Way. I was not actually sure which event I had entered, nor the difference between the two routes. I was after the July event. Fortunately, the event organisers can tell their religious dudes apart. We started at Holy Island and ran to Melrose. From my limited knowledge, I believe we were running it in the opposite direction from St Cuthbert himself. Earlier in the year, I had the privilege of visiting Holy Island on a school trip to learn about Vikings. The upside of this meant that I knew where the toilets were. A key advantage.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was pleased to enter the event a few weeks before, a rarity in the overpopulated ultra field these days. An event that still allows last minute entries ensures it is a low key one; just the kind I like. The cut-off time was also generous. It was going to be a slow slog for me and I do not like a time pressure. We hang out on road, get told to take it easy at the start and then we trundle off.</span><br />
<div style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-size: small; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcxk3saisy38C4lmx8REz5VNYK8iyagrQRl-XWX5Lw-lW5bqcDZGW1sIkTicEZGUhXuvCQ91Ck4_OU4I2BnuiSPMWdk2ffHoLkyFTkgjVzQ9Q-Z8TusK2yrIpApM2oswIXvxbRUXaOSoQ/s1600/cuthbert+start.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcxk3saisy38C4lmx8REz5VNYK8iyagrQRl-XWX5Lw-lW5bqcDZGW1sIkTicEZGUhXuvCQ91Ck4_OU4I2BnuiSPMWdk2ffHoLkyFTkgjVzQ9Q-Z8TusK2yrIpApM2oswIXvxbRUXaOSoQ/s400/cuthbert+start.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Holy Island, St Cuthbert's Way ultra start</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Holy Island is the starting point so that the tide will not be an issue for finishers. Although that would be a laugh and the double is tempting. A few runners sprint off at the start but most of us take it easy and enjoy the view as we run across causeway in some classic British sunshine. I snap some photographs and appear on some runner's video. That video is likely to be a global hit now. Scott drives past and passes out my sunhat; Tour de France style. Halfway out is an emergency hut, in case we have misjudged the tide. It would have been funny to cram all the runners in there. We pass a few signs telling us to turn back if our tyres are submerged in water. I look down. I've forgotten my tyres.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg7qLofpNJOf2KZItaOkkm4dYUEuiESeag5WPdmJwEYVsctcF8HhyphenhyphenhQ7liltU3k-_Y6OyXS4VJWPW8mbNUR1xn0kOcTpFrSStRqcyWteBPn1CMFHH8IE6AK4qneH35vy1_0j7qNFtjolRf/s1600/20160716_083527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg7qLofpNJOf2KZItaOkkm4dYUEuiESeag5WPdmJwEYVsctcF8HhyphenhyphenhQ7liltU3k-_Y6OyXS4VJWPW8mbNUR1xn0kOcTpFrSStRqcyWteBPn1CMFHH8IE6AK4qneH35vy1_0j7qNFtjolRf/s400/20160716_083527.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Once on the mainland we take a left and duck behind some giant concrete cubes for a game of pretend paintball; pow, pow! Across a railway track, plod up an incline. Stop and look at signs with people. Turn in some circles. Stop and look at some other signs. Have a laugh. Look at maps with people. Not my own. The compulsary kit list includes a compass and map although I cannot competently use either so it is a waste of time for me. The kit list is slightly excessive which means I cannot carry enough liquids or food in my pack. There are waterproof trousers (and let's face it, no one can run in these), a waterproof jacket (I usually pack this anyway), hat and gloves (even with my Pacific blood I'm not going to touch these during a summer 100km), a whistle (fortunately attched to my bag) and a bottle opener (no wait, I just added that myself).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwJ-v8KSpdU483mXi8cw5VXJ5aB7lo1r-k04vPrjIXp2AvqjclmaHTDoeE4PsJ_44X2nMgEHLykxJRQkby0o4KOWkvnDmNKEFEWWyW1dJ2LSXhJhmrUrDlJTxRK_2gyja_uC-9sVqILtC/s1600/cuthbert+cp1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwJ-v8KSpdU483mXi8cw5VXJ5aB7lo1r-k04vPrjIXp2AvqjclmaHTDoeE4PsJ_44X2nMgEHLykxJRQkby0o4KOWkvnDmNKEFEWWyW1dJ2LSXhJhmrUrDlJTxRK_2gyja_uC-9sVqILtC/s400/cuthbert+cp1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A road crossing. Bramble bushes without brambles. That is my main food source for today wiped out. At some point, a checkpoint. Maybe this is Wooler. The organisers very kindly let me register at the race start rather than drive the extra miles on the Saturday morning to register in Melrose or Wooler. This means that I do not have drop bags but fortunately Scott is here with some sushi and a Lucozade. He knows how to please a lady. My tracker that I was given at the start is not tracking me. It is not turned on. So we heave it out of my over packed bag and turn it on. Now all my fans at home can track me as I run across the border.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_M0m0PvcjABk2h0NBguAZML80KfmF9VPLMFDxgyMIrpD-L3rYM9gtRF3leZEebvmTKE6ppuwU6mfY9e0C4tDiawVWvjuf87GKuWqWhXvzLM7B79sep2YLW-YhaSMDbmhOeOgJeNi32Hz/s1600/cuthbert+cp2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_M0m0PvcjABk2h0NBguAZML80KfmF9VPLMFDxgyMIrpD-L3rYM9gtRF3leZEebvmTKE6ppuwU6mfY9e0C4tDiawVWvjuf87GKuWqWhXvzLM7B79sep2YLW-YhaSMDbmhOeOgJeNi32Hz/s400/cuthbert+cp2.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Wooler</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The villages are cute and initially I think that one may be holding a tea party for the Queen as there is so much union jack bunting. Ahh, still in England. Later, two guys come flying past who were already ahead of me. They got lost in the British jungle somewhere. You have to look carefully for the signposts, analyse them for a while and then wait for another runner to analyse also. A group of us run up a hill towards a signpost so that we can then run across the hill, following the route correctly. Unfortunately, one thing I found in this event is that not everyone follows the route, so a bunch of runners just cut across instead.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There is a nice variety of terrain and we bounce over tufts of grass. While the lads about me are friendly enough, one of the guys overdid the cola at the last checkpoint and is burping some belters in quick succession. I decide to move on; not a musical concert I particularly need to stay for.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I catch Alan, running in those tiny shorts of his. He's not doing the double today but will be running another ultra tomorrow. Half a night of sleep; plenty. We take a wrong turn and bush whacked our way for a bit until a tourist told us to enjoy our view of the waterfall. Err, maybe an additional scenic hotspot is not currently required. So we backtrack and another group of runners call us to the right path.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Numerous cars come towards us on a small road. A wedding. It seems my invitation was lost in the post. Those delivery drivers are never paid enough. I'd be pinching all the mail and attending strangers' weddings if I was a postwoman too. And then there is a checkpoint but no Scott as it is not that easy to access. I am well thirsty due to my limited water supplies and throw back cola.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Alan and I head out of the checkpoint and climb up some gravel hills with another friendly lady. A fork confuses us but after some thought we head through some woods. I get ahead a bit, enjoying the rolling undulations until I come to a T-junction. I am running on the St Cuthbert's Way but neither arrow has that particular path listed. Hmmm. I turn around, hoping to see Alan and the lady coming. No one. I jog down to some walkers. Have you seen runners? <i>Yes. Lots of them.</i> So, are you walking the St Cuthbert's Way? <i>Yes.</i> Excellent, I am nailing this navigating.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Weeeee down some hills. I see some children playing in a river so I call out an<i> excuse me</i> as I splash through. I glance to my left; bridge. What a dickman I am. Some not-so-locals are having a party. I walk up a road anxiously looking for arrows and signs. And then down. I have been by myself without seeing anyone for a while. Relief when I find a village and ask some locals which direction to go in. After trotting where I think they are pointing, they call out, as I clearly cannot even run across a road without getting lost. A few hundred metres on, I again attempt to go the wrong way. Alongside a river, over the bridge and then I am in some trouble as I wander next to a pretend loch. Where are the runners? I wander around a bit, deciding to just stand still until I see some runners coming in the same direction. Phew.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The trail only has one major hill and it is the one I am starting to go up. The committed photographer has placed herself on a steep slope and informs me that no one has run up so not to worry. I wasn't considering running myself but am happy to smile. I pass the first 45 milers during the climb. They started at Wooler a few hours after the 100km runners and are in great spirits climbing the hill. The view is great in each direction. It is a hot day. We'd be pushing for 20 here. Half the runners will be sunburnt.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIY49kuaL2Mqlm-mBxfGLnicucRezza8T41vHX32y8hL6Vx0i3hGkWETKBmGcAEe7sMxMgMVdyHVtA5tgeALfGBLJIU9Drmmjf6xNDm5D-gyFvTHlYP79s9p4Pn_-hoMe6xVcM8aNvuMwV/s1600/cuthbert+hill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIY49kuaL2Mqlm-mBxfGLnicucRezza8T41vHX32y8hL6Vx0i3hGkWETKBmGcAEe7sMxMgMVdyHVtA5tgeALfGBLJIU9Drmmjf6xNDm5D-gyFvTHlYP79s9p4Pn_-hoMe6xVcM8aNvuMwV/s400/cuthbert+hill.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I only see one runner on the descent into Morebattle and he is feeling bust. Morebattle is another cute village and the checkpoint is in a hall. It is buzzing with all the runners I haven't seen for hours. Scott and I scoff crisps and custard. Well, I do. Scott fills my bottles for me. The organisers said that we should start slow, go slower and then once we get to M-something, we can see what we have left. I figure that this is M-something and I feel good so I jog on out of the town. Scott has successfully erected the tent in Melrose. What a team.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11Jd6GceZe7dI8vfo68eYaPxqX2w9IrC33mrcFB5QVhY2PKBIVyNsnFrvYLyvQA0C6fXLho8ltDj0ASc9cP3Z0ug1DF791W3SY-5cn92ohHdQIP7cez0O0YS0EjC5hCs_0HjuXhUWcDzz/s1600/morebattle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11Jd6GceZe7dI8vfo68eYaPxqX2w9IrC33mrcFB5QVhY2PKBIVyNsnFrvYLyvQA0C6fXLho8ltDj0ASc9cP3Z0ug1DF791W3SY-5cn92ohHdQIP7cez0O0YS0EjC5hCs_0HjuXhUWcDzz/s400/morebattle.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Trail Outlaws photo at Morebattle</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I pass some cheery 45 milers, a runner who asks me if I am in the relay (no but I am flattered) and a few slightly more bedraggled 100km runners. A castle to the left, encouraging 45 mile runner to my right. It was a good day to get the day off from work.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Paddock full of cows. Such big cows. They are all around an arrow that I need to run to. Killed by cows would make such an embarrassing read on my gravestone. I tiptoe to the edge of the paddock. I am now the furthest from the bridge I need to be crossing and have to walk the entire way around the paddock. As I cross the bridge I see other runners cutting through a bush rather than wrestle with the cows. Wish I'd seen that path before.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Another checkpoint. I'm all by myself. A sign post pointing UP. Hmmm. One side of the fence has a stile; the other a ramp and bridge. Do I cross a bridge? Stile. No. Back over the stile then. I start up the ramp. It doesn't feel right. Climb over the stile. Run along the river. The track runs out. Back up the ramp and over the bridge. Arrow on the other side. Again, nailing this navigation.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Ahead of me is someone with headphones and hiking poles. Only this could be Dave. I creep up behind him quietly so that he lets out a girly scream in fright. He tries to keep up while we run through some endless desert grass. Although it is not the desert. And Dave is now flagging. Then I'm the <i>other woman</i> while a guy speaks on the phone with his wife and I cheer at him from behind.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0Ln3ws7o9qS30CfC8wreiebyPHvxMgqWNFQhCRUQPeVJLawv6-9H13TrtTdHw9VqC6HXIKLeaVyiJTcwxwWlQcxe0jJTDPDUfLVwkCV-Zk8g8gMHCSosEZ8fNQnp4UOM2kI5WY1FCJUK/s1600/cuthbert+run.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0Ln3ws7o9qS30CfC8wreiebyPHvxMgqWNFQhCRUQPeVJLawv6-9H13TrtTdHw9VqC6HXIKLeaVyiJTcwxwWlQcxe0jJTDPDUfLVwkCV-Zk8g8gMHCSosEZ8fNQnp4UOM2kI5WY1FCJUK/s400/cuthbert+run.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Second to last checkpoint. Maybe. The marshals are in disagreement and I am not sure how many checkpoints there were anyway. I do remember that I did not get my Keith Stout from Scott at the last checkpoint. Some lovely villages again; no union jack bunting anymore so we must be in Scotland now. On a main road in a village I cannot find a sign telling me where to go. I approach two young lads clad in grey Adidas tracksuits with strange ear piercings to ask directions. Always a good idea right? They were uber polite but did not know what St Cuthbert's was. If I took a left and then a right and went over a hill I could get to Melrose however. It was tempting but I wanted to make sure I stuck to the official path so as not to be disqualified. After jogging on a bit I looked back and saw an arrow and sign. Right outside their house. To be fair, the sign was quite high.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">After a nice jog along a river, there was another wee village. All speedy tarmac. Suddenly I see a lady walking ahead with a car driving slowly next to her. Initially I was a bit worried that someone was stalking her but it turned out to be her partner. Phew, we do not want a crazy stalker, we will be losing light soon. I encourage the lady to run with me but she is feeling a bit bust so I go on ahead. As I took it easy until M-something, I feel very fresh now and enjoy the trail to the last small hill. Throughout the race I heard some rumours about different coloured medals based on your finishing time. Although I do not run with a watch, I knew it was not dark yet so it must be before 10pm, therefore I could finish in under 14 hours achieving a silver medal. Silver sounds good to me so I push on hoping that my eyesight and mathematics has not failed me. It would be nice to finish without needing my headtorch too! I chat with some Scottish runners completing the 45 mile event; the first ultra for one. Everyone has been very friendly. At the top I take a moment to enjoy the view before the final decent. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The steep never ending decent reminds me of coming into Inverness at the end of the Great Glen Way. At the top of a gravel path I see another runner at the bottom so at least I know that I am on the right path. As I arrive into Melrose I wander around a square looking for an arrow or markings. When I cannot find any, I ask a father and his son if they have seen any runners. He replies that yes, he has seen many runners at the campsite he is staying at. As the race does not finish at the campsite, this is not greatly helpful to me. When I ask a taxi driver he points to a road which I follow for a block or two. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Melrose is a small village and the local youths need to make their own fun. On my arrival, their fun was to switch the running arrows so that they faced one another. I run around a church; stopping to walk in case I am being disrespectful. Finally, I give up asking people if they have seen runners and ask if anyone knows where D-something Hall is (I'm great with names). Aha, success! Darnick Hall is <i>thataway. </i>So thataway I run. Past some lovely houses and a few past middle-aged ladies cheering with their Chardonnay spilling from their wine glasses. The youths should get themselves to that party. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">As I step into the finishing hall there are a few shocked faces as they were not expecting me. I ensure them that the lady I passed will make it to the finish (and she does, less than 10 minutes later, feeling much better). Once I am changed, I sit down with a beer and coffee combination while Scott buys the fish and chip shop out of food before it closes. During this time I am told by numerous spectators that I may have been the first lady. I find this surprising as I have already shaken hands with the lady that did come first (I never saw her in the event so never knew what was going on). There is talk of a five minute penalty because of an accidental shortcut on tarmac that a few of the leading runners took (everyone I spoke to went wrong on the course at some point but we just went back the way we had come before righting ourselves). As I was second by two minutes, a five minute penalty for her would put me in first place. Apparently some of the runners who took the shortcut were informed of this and some weren't. I wait and see what the organisers decided rather than getting involved... Nothing happens and I happily accept a very heavy second place trophy. I am not really sure what went on and am mostly focused on consuming the interested combination of deep fried foods I have been given. I have since won the competition of travelling the furthest post race. I'm not sure on the number of entrants for that category. </span></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="color: #222222; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDImbQ4E9czhYdbe4lXxMhkZeUpQg3oJftZ-elNcG7dS4VCXf9b9prvVaxYaWEY1OUvqcyXJQ4g6xXbvzupzUYpwItkdqYDPQBtNc-yirbNgGMQ-1edYSko0SWIzyBjeOItR9JD_TBUaRB/s1600/cuthbert+finish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDImbQ4E9czhYdbe4lXxMhkZeUpQg3oJftZ-elNcG7dS4VCXf9b9prvVaxYaWEY1OUvqcyXJQ4g6xXbvzupzUYpwItkdqYDPQBtNc-yirbNgGMQ-1edYSko0SWIzyBjeOItR9JD_TBUaRB/s400/cuthbert+finish.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Finishing at Darnick Hall</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Personally, I was just pleased to feel good throughout the run. I finished in about 13 and a half hours, earning me a silver medal. The times are very slow for the distance because it is a small race still. It is not particularly hilly, nor technical, although I am a bit slow in mud and long grass. I loved the varied terrain. I try not to think about how I could run 20km further, an hour quicker, on hillier terrain 18 months ago! I feel very fortunate that my legs are able to plod around for a day without training. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And, very importantly, I know you have all been wondering why I have not been doing much running in the last few years (the nonexistent queries have been endless). I have secretly been working towards my retirement and I can now officially announce that I have reached thirty ultramarathons before my 30th birthday. From now on I will eat dinner crazy early, watch the TV too loudly and holiday only as part of a large tour group. It feels great. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Thank you very much to all the runners, marshals, organisers and Scott! </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And here's a photo of Donald finishing accompanied by an ambulance!</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #222222; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #222222; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #222222; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3I4iUMxrGzMiTRBgOMrt8iV1hiKf8eurUAhsMzupepsOgE1gf6AbbqOmZSXutV0DRrGsqWH44pV7rf4fdi9O0jFYm5MvvULJr0Q_YjhgBFFjL4HJ3bi5RKLm36a9T_4m46xxGz4KW-qo/s1600/cuthbert+donald.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3I4iUMxrGzMiTRBgOMrt8iV1hiKf8eurUAhsMzupepsOgE1gf6AbbqOmZSXutV0DRrGsqWH44pV7rf4fdi9O0jFYm5MvvULJr0Q_YjhgBFFjL4HJ3bi5RKLm36a9T_4m46xxGz4KW-qo/s400/cuthbert+donald.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-32228723188336861402016-05-27T22:29:00.000+01:002016-05-31T21:00:55.696+01:00Cateran Trail Ultra<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The blame for my Cateran entry this year lies with Sandra and Ian Beattie. After mustering up the courage to take off my coat at their wedding (who knew I would gain so much weight and not be able to fit a dress I had worn six weeks prior?), I began consuming a few beverages and busting some moves on the d-floor. A conversation took place with Karen and George whereby we all confessed love for one another and the Cateran trail in general. By the end of the night Scott had agreed to do the 55-miler and I was set up to enter the 110. What was I thinking? Two serious concerns; 1 - I am a huge unfit piece of lard unable to run 110 miles, and 2 - there is no way I could get the Friday off work to start the double. Fortunately in the morning we came to our senses. Scott would marshal and I would do the 55. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I figure 55 miles is ploddable without training and the undulations in the route made it more forgiving on us unfit. A solid story which boosted my confidence. I like to run Donald-style and leave my training until event day. Challenge myself you know? I spent the night bonding with the toilet seat; I can only assume because I overindulged in Tunnocks Tea Cakes post-dinner. Being in a bunk room I was slightly uncomfortable with possibly waking up my fellow roomies. Unfortunately, one of fellow roomies did not have the same concern and proceeded to hold a team meeting in the room at 5:20am. This was after we'd been lectured about the possibility of our snoring (Dave Hetherington only purrs like a kitten, Scott on the other hand...) by a woman who wasn't even running. The race started at 7am. I'd planned on a lie-in. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF69f-Yijgvk5Zm6_nPXmaT8h0mu5RBNbDT4iUATuvqVb0shbIXze6dcQmyegFcJT4IIrM0xEsbBHHC3oU23f7YvglO79b8TlDn5eGeZVTyYUjRNWZg6dl6a0ErFvpTRkoDwhhM0NT9QrH/s1600/cateran+quad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF69f-Yijgvk5Zm6_nPXmaT8h0mu5RBNbDT4iUATuvqVb0shbIXze6dcQmyegFcJT4IIrM0xEsbBHHC3oU23f7YvglO79b8TlDn5eGeZVTyYUjRNWZg6dl6a0ErFvpTRkoDwhhM0NT9QrH/s400/cateran+quad.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Trouble ahead: Ian, Bob, Keith and I</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboYXxdt6mpLu98AUhWOryHW0xeAhsqU9VieSJNpZeFM7kjqBxpTB_vCYE90DdCGXE11gyWIFgNHON5pN3hPmeaVTmKBh5QM6gs-Ifdz6Z2kORNAwhXnZRc8ZggBv4P4Wvpn0_NIPJodZo/s1600/cateran+walk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboYXxdt6mpLu98AUhWOryHW0xeAhsqU9VieSJNpZeFM7kjqBxpTB_vCYE90DdCGXE11gyWIFgNHON5pN3hPmeaVTmKBh5QM6gs-Ifdz6Z2kORNAwhXnZRc8ZggBv4P4Wvpn0_NIPJodZo/s400/cateran+walk.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Doing the hair on the way to the start</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpwtIsk5da_O4v-EGDizWBy2A0yU824AHKk1ZqsZ6mA06zoA2XDci2IkM3YqOQWh3wsLWvycXOvu7cItY5R7isVJE0KGM6yClQ16I06xvh8qU3-j7EjXMmuLhNn6CAyI7PlMCp359DORpU/s1600/cateran+start.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpwtIsk5da_O4v-EGDizWBy2A0yU824AHKk1ZqsZ6mA06zoA2XDci2IkM3YqOQWh3wsLWvycXOvu7cItY5R7isVJE0KGM6yClQ16I06xvh8qU3-j7EjXMmuLhNn6CAyI7PlMCp359DORpU/s400/cateran+start.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Start of the Cateran trail at Spittal of Glenshee</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">After climbing the stile to the start line I misjudged my landing and realised my first error of the day; a lack of contact lenses. A bit of an issue as I recently failed the eye test for my New Zealand driver's licence with my CONTACTS IN. New Zealanders are maniac drivers though so the lady signed me off as fit to drive anyway. Anyways, the first handful of miles were a bit tough on the vision. A video of my tiptoeing and squeals would have provided much amusement. My solo braid is also constantly getting stuck in the zip of my bag and I am losing chunks of hair each time I rip the braid out. It must be at that awkward length. It is driving me nuts. Forget the legs running 55 miles, my blooming hair cannot handle it! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The first checkpoint is past a castle after which many miles go by discussing how children nowadays have too much stuff and not enough time spent on them. Over the last week I have had a bit of pain in my shin and pounding on roads is not making them feel the best <i>(UPDATE: turns out that I have shin splints. Who knew that eating cupcakes and running less than 15 miles a week would cause shin splints. Seriously raging)</i>. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I catch Alan who I think has a superb tan (although quite tiny shorts) and comment that he is looking good. The conversation goes on for a bit and then comes to this bit;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Alan: It's getting warm now</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Me: Yes, I was worried that my shorts were overly ambitious initially</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Alan: I was so cold during the night</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Me: Oh really? Were you in a top room or a bottom room of the bunkhouse?</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Alan: Neither. I was running.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Me: What?! You're doing the double?! You don't look like you've already run through the night! </span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Seriously, a huge well done. He was moving so well I had no idea<b>. </b></span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Then I follow a line of runners down the wrong road, only to have a feeling of da je vu as I ran back up it. I took the same wrong road two years ago. It is my second incorrect passage today. Does not bode particularly well pre checkpoint two. A big thank you to the runner who called us back. We trundle in to the beautiful <b>Glenisla</b>. The checkpoint marshals had predicted I would come through casually in the second half of the pack and stop for some banter. I was delighted not to let them down. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On exiting the checkpoint I found that I could not open my Nathan bottles as Helen Munro has bigger arm muscles than I do and had ensured they were tightly closed at the previous checkpoint. Later, as starvation began to set in, I would start eating my Nuun tablets. Up a bit, across a bit, up a bit, down a bit (Lorna flew away from me), fun run down a road for a bit, watch out for the wild boars bit. A nice chat with a lad from Edinburgh-ish. And then, <b>Alyth</b>. A wee bit of doubting from another runner and I as to where we should be going. I knew it was 'down in those trees' but my directions weren't super. We made it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Drama. I'd skipped my fruit at Glenisla due to the night time bowel party. Despite the barrel full of Imodium I had consumed I figured it was best not to put too much into the body and risk an after party. Now I was faced with custard that expired a year ago. Possibly too much of a risk today and I have to bin it. If I'd been doing any running in the last nine months I would have known about the custard! So I trundle out of the checkpoint next to the river gagging on half a Nuun tablet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Some road walking is followed by a nice wooded section before a zippy downhill section into <b>Blairgowrie</b>. I chat with Jeni and Andy and marvel at a section of navigational success. As I enter the checkpoint there is scurrying and panicking as there are a handful of lady runners in at the same time. I cannot be arsed getting involved in any competitive nonsense so hang about the checkpoint after it has cleared out and get full attention from the Minions. A cup of water over my head creates a salt attack in my eyes and I need to be mopped up with a gentle deep cleansing exfoliating face wipe. This will prove to be a terrible decision as I got sunburnt on my forehead and around my eyes. My chin and lower cheeks however were adequately covered by my lathers of 'extra face' that I had put on in the morning. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I particularly like crossing the bridge out of Blairgowrie (although had to ask some walkers which direction they had seen runners going in). I then get busted trying to use the ladies and have to stop mid-flow. Talent that. Didn't even know that I had that in me. A few runners are having bad patches here so I do not initially realise that I am passing another double runner who is also moving better than many of the 55 milers. Andy is feeling nauseous and a club runner, Jo, is having to stop multiple times en route for the ladies. That is three of us ill... I hope that there is not something tearing through the bunkhouse....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A bunch of us come into the next checkpoint at <b>Bridge of Cally</b> together. I have to skip another tub of custard. HoneyStinger chews and some trail mix for the road. I have to hurry along quickly as I need some privacy for the bathroom. Hurrying along quickly up hills when you have not trained is a tricky endeavor. I have never specifically trained on hills but it is amazing how much strength I have lost even just walking up hills. And then I am alone with just my cellulite for company for a very long time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEima8joSDelw3BYTMx50M3hndFAGOKTVwuBKr3clWWfTcR2xX7CdxacwGwDrBXGjZXwZcNNi_VEVo3KphRfrdFL11EP66LHJLuHxKT5Fhv81YiK0ea1X4JzCCFBC2waeed7vg1WAZNNJXFR/s1600/cateran+shoe+clean.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEima8joSDelw3BYTMx50M3hndFAGOKTVwuBKr3clWWfTcR2xX7CdxacwGwDrBXGjZXwZcNNi_VEVo3KphRfrdFL11EP66LHJLuHxKT5Fhv81YiK0ea1X4JzCCFBC2waeed7vg1WAZNNJXFR/s400/cateran+shoe+clean.JPG" width="223" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At the shoe cleaning section (well manned Scott and Norm), I try to stop for a bit of banter but am pushed on. Don't they know I was lonely? So many other runners have pacers for company and I've been all by myseeeeeelf... And then even more horrid than my singing voice; flat running. I am starting to feel not particularly well. Imodium is still working a treat but I could do a vomit. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">MAN DOWN. Or Kiwi. Or lassie. Contactless, I have run smack into a tree branch and am on the deck. I've been stabbed in the neck. I stumble up, grabbing at the side of my neck. It seems I am going to survive. Disappointing really. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">By the time the final checkpoint at <b>Enochdhu</b> comes I am ready to eat anything they offer at the table. They have a tub of Haribo. I might be sick. Or die of starvation. Better not be sick, the starvation will set in quicker if I do. The checkpoint is insanely quiet and I am not sure that my chat is appreciated so I move on. I cannot remember if the bog section (although not really boggy this year) was before or after the final checkpoint but it drove me a bit crazy. There is not much of a defined path which is fine as there are post markers in the distance that you can head towards. Unfortunately, their distance exceeds my vision capabilities and I am left twirling around hoping that another runner will stumble upon me before a lion does. I then go on a different path to a walking tourist confusing myself more despite my correct following of the signs. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Finally, we reach the final stretch of grasslands (not quite Africa) before we get to climb up and roll down. I regret my decision to wear a white t-shirt as I feel the nausea coming over me. They say it is better out than in and the sooner it comes out the better. In the meantime, I slow it down and focus on getting enough head jolting movement to prevent any self-vomiting. I hear Jo and her pacer behind me and am pleased that she is feeling better. We've all been in that position during an event and none of us would wish it upon anyone else. I'm expecting them to come past at any moment and when they don't I consider turning around and cheering them on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAB_tYjVozWr0Of_tMT4-twjC-FhIK71piYK10NjhSdrGziGvvUMVJY_fCOAHb2jFrE_e6nmV7TJFTar-Q0BY-GFTlnKsP223ztKxqiC6Tfot0hUT_EhpGF0a_0H2fDI_KhfXTBQhEzdqG/s1600/cateran+final+hill.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAB_tYjVozWr0Of_tMT4-twjC-FhIK71piYK10NjhSdrGziGvvUMVJY_fCOAHb2jFrE_e6nmV7TJFTar-Q0BY-GFTlnKsP223ztKxqiC6Tfot0hUT_EhpGF0a_0H2fDI_KhfXTBQhEzdqG/s400/cateran+final+hill.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The last climb comes and is not that hard. Running blind down a hill is much harder but I get no sympathy from the Minions on the way down. My strategy for getting through this years race was to take it easy until I hit the road a few hundred metres from the finish and then go for it. So I forget the nausea for a bit and scurry along the final stretch of road to the finish. I spend two and a half hours drinking one bottle of beer and having a small bowl of (scrumptious) pesto pasta whilst still feeling terrible. Fortunately, after a shower and a spew I felt much better. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Nipping under ten hours, I achieved a personal worst by 30 minutes which was faster than I expected. My recovery was possibly the worst it has been; a combination of little fitness, not eating or drinking much in the race and recurrent late nights. Even Krispy Kreme donuts, a curry and crisps failed to help.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Well done to all the runners; particularly the first time ultrarunners and the double runners. The 55 mile record was smashed by Rob, and the 110 records were smashed by Sharon and Pat. Thank you to the marshals. Many ultraraces and ultrarunners seem to be changing for the worst so it is nice to still have a race where you rock up to every member of the registration and marshaling team drinking alcohol whilst on duty. That is what the spirit of these races used to be all about! Thanks to Karen and George, who despite a tough time recently, pulled together a seamless event with a load of sunshine. And to Mike for taking on the strain of the 110.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDu7g20YHX8GSIDoB-FUedixAWEO2zlAcO19lLBFdxHCVTBvk8BHeOS-x1KoDuWtDO-IuPnyI60k0fVRHkU05-oZGfNUOMlLtZh60fpNI6wHzAi9f2n5u6VzrAQLA0_88lskM65F6GFbo_/s1600/cateran+finish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDu7g20YHX8GSIDoB-FUedixAWEO2zlAcO19lLBFdxHCVTBvk8BHeOS-x1KoDuWtDO-IuPnyI60k0fVRHkU05-oZGfNUOMlLtZh60fpNI6wHzAi9f2n5u6VzrAQLA0_88lskM65F6GFbo_/s400/cateran+finish.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-42637497609866894162016-05-16T22:26:00.001+01:002016-05-26T21:59:02.610+01:00Ultra Brew<div abp="343">
<span abp="344" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">New races are popping up everywhere lately. Ultras are the new aerial yoga. Fast runners are running them. Slow runners are running them. Non runners are running them (therefore becoming runners or maybe just proving you can walk them). Even dogs are allowed to run some of them. Having just run a 'new' ultra; the John Muir 50km Ultra, I've been thinking about creating my own. I just need to decide my direction...</span></div>
<div abp="345">
</div>
<div abp="347">
<span abp="348" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">There are already some pretty cool race concepts out there. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">One of my <b>favourite</b> ultra running experiences was running my first ultra; the Caesar Camp 50 miler. Other than being a low-key, no nonsense event, its concept is similar to most in that you just run a certain distance. The reason it is such a good memory though (other than I ran it with my father) is that I got such a huge sense of accomplishment from just completing my first ultra. There was nothing to judge myself against and more importantly nowadays, nobody else to judge me. Once you have completed your first race of any distance, it is hard to get that feeling back again so </span><span abp="348" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I like the idea of not having a specific distance to run</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> but rather running until you just cannot be bothered to run anymore. Here are a few races that have lit my inspiration spark:</span></div>
<div abp="347">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br /></span></div>
<div abp="347">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Hot off the press is the </span><strong style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"><a href="http://www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com/us/en/about/about/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Wings for Life World Run</span></a></strong><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="color: #0b5394;"> </span>which fundraise</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">s for spinal cord injury research projects. You start running. Thirty minutes later a car starts driving. The car gradually gets faster. When the car catches you, you are out. Just a wee note; the car is fast. I like to picture the start line with everyone tearing down the streets shoving each other over in a desperate attempt to be ahead when the car catches up. </span></div>
<div abp="347">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br /></span></div>
<div abp="347">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For those without employment there is the <strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/325985894254197" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Run Until You Drop</span></a></strong> multi-day concept. On February 1st you run one mile. On February 2nd you run two miles. You keep going in that pattern until everyone has dropped. A little mundane at the start and then time-consuming by the end. Do you restart after March and do it all again or continue counting up with numbers?</span></div>
<div abp="347">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div abp="353">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Another run with a similar concept is the <b><a href="http://www.atlasrunning.co.uk/page.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Last One Standing</span></a></b> run in Northern Ireland. You start running 4.2 mile trail loops and have an hour to get around the loop. You keep running loops until you cannot make it around within the one hour cut off anymore. If you finish the loop early you have time for a snack or kit change before you start on another lap on the hour. After 24 hours you can stop running loops regardless. I'd love it even more if there was no time limit but I guess that the race organisers need to go back to their day jobs eventually! </span></div>
<div abp="353">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div abp="353">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There is also another type of running that I like; themed runs. Yes, there are the costume specific runs but they are not really appropriate for ultra distances. I am thinking of beverage or food focused events. Here are a few that I think would quench my thirst:</span></div>
<div abp="353">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div abp="353">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For those looking for an excuse to go to France for a weekend and drink wine in the sun there is the <b><a href="http://www.marathondumedoc.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Marathon du Medoc</span></a></b>. I'm thinking a trip away with the girls. Trainers optional, apron compulsory (for the wine spills). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My <b>worst</b> running experience has to be during the <b>Tromso Midnight Sun Marathon</b>. Now, Tromso itself is great and I was staying with a very friendly Couchsurfing host. Unfortunately, Norwegian fish cakes do not really agree with me nor marathon running and I had to pop back into my accommodation mid-run before eventually being pulled out by the medics and spending the whole night being sick in an almost-stranger's house. However, that was years ago and I am ready to try some more adventurous eating whilst running. this leads me to the <b><span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://newyorkroguerunners.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">New York Hot Dog Challenge</span></a>,</span> </b>a 2.5 mile dash with ten compulsory hot dog stops. Scotland could start something similar with a chunk of haggis in some pastry. Vegetarians could be accommodated also.<b> </b></span></div>
<div abp="353">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div abp="363">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span>It is surprising how easy it is to create and manage and <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/l/sell-tickets/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">sell tickets to an event</span></a>. I imagine that the rest of the organisational process is slightly more difficult. Here's what I am thinking; an ultra distance race in Scotland passing through breweries with no end point. If you make it to the brewery before the cut-off, you can keep going to the next one. Some days can have multiple breweries followed by a night's sleep. Other days you'd have to run through the night to reach the next one. Tastings (or pints) are compulsory at each brewery. Running whilst dressed as a beer bottle is optional. We could get the locals involved by offering shorter between-brewery races. Nothing would dampen the mood of a drunk exhausted ultra runner more. Or a relay. They seem to be all the rage in ultras nowadays.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The hard part will be narrowing down the brewery preferences. We want them spread across Scotland but both rural and urban breweries should be included. What would be harder; a long multi-day slog to the next brewery or a short skip between some in a city resulting in more beer to consume? List your favourites in the comments section and we'll see if we can create a map, approximate distances and some cut-offs. Here are a few I found:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHBRstc2Kfo56aFvRoXoCwl21MMqWmX2UBxi1E12Oj3FhHbhFq8qDC80AITUXKzsh73x9SDinHbi5QX-nSgAXVBc85S-TZB1sWrF0iH2MHI0flTJqcD24ZTTPEmxZ7Nt1i5lqaSxDjIbh/s1600/brewery+map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHBRstc2Kfo56aFvRoXoCwl21MMqWmX2UBxi1E12Oj3FhHbhFq8qDC80AITUXKzsh73x9SDinHbi5QX-nSgAXVBc85S-TZB1sWrF0iH2MHI0flTJqcD24ZTTPEmxZ7Nt1i5lqaSxDjIbh/s640/brewery+map.jpg" width="462" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Ultra Brew</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div abp="366">
<br abp="367" />
<br /></div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-10745862556166219472016-04-30T22:45:00.000+01:002016-04-30T22:45:39.761+01:00John Muir Way 50km Ultra<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHIeqMC6MaVfJxjMZSEqeoRJugHOJIPQ2v1WihErskmE6_5Ux4Aa9XW0qA56g5XIqd5fpEvFH7Ky3GWx-uO9vt8fAvaPpHqzcGY4Q1vWFjUR-aX31rjVMnQWa4um7u_tZEJk2fKnnrLE0/s1600/foxlake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHIeqMC6MaVfJxjMZSEqeoRJugHOJIPQ2v1WihErskmE6_5Ux4Aa9XW0qA56g5XIqd5fpEvFH7Ky3GWx-uO9vt8fAvaPpHqzcGY4Q1vWFjUR-aX31rjVMnQWa4um7u_tZEJk2fKnnrLE0/s400/foxlake.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Port Seton to Dunbar. Appears straightforward for a runner hoping to use public transport. So a week before our holiday to Sri Lanka, I booked myself an entry in a 50km ultra along the John Muir Way. I then promptly forgot until I read the race instructions a few days prior to the race. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Good news - We were in possession of a car hire for the morning so I could be driven to the start. I also obtained my British Citizenship this week which isn't too relevant for the race but just good news in general. Who knows, maybe dual citizens get dual stamina? </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLYYya-E3A3L9bWhlohWaY5_XcY2_J5_2EPXVYPFq8My4uDODYY7gn0Gc-syNuK4PwnPfhVW-zs1HZqIZ6VfhfUsJQCLxcpURj03E4__Xn5ju3Q4bKwR6Q7kvzm71OXhsu6ty1THamyww/s1600/start+selfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLYYya-E3A3L9bWhlohWaY5_XcY2_J5_2EPXVYPFq8My4uDODYY7gn0Gc-syNuK4PwnPfhVW-zs1HZqIZ6VfhfUsJQCLxcpURj03E4__Xn5ju3Q4bKwR6Q7kvzm71OXhsu6ty1THamyww/s400/start+selfie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
Bad news - Race registration closed an hour before the start and was actually taking place at the finish line. We were coming from Angus. That meant leaving the accommodation by 5:30am. Not quite the <i>'slide out of bed the back of 8am and arrive at the start line with a decent ten minutes to</i> <i>spare'</i> plan that I had originally thought of. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Foxlake's setup is great and I look forward to going for a swing on their rope adventure but perhaps on the only day of the year that Scotland cracks twenty degrees; that water looked cold and there is no doubt I would fall in.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the bus I sat next to some tartan lycra worn by Donald and was privileged to use the toilets at Port Seton. A privilege because this particular toilet block has won 'Toilet of the Year' awards for multiple years. Unfortunately none recently and probably none for a while after a pile of runners have been through. The women's line is longer, a first for any ultra that I have been in. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the start I head to the back as there is also a pairs event, where relay teams can run 25km each. No need to get caught up with the speedy club runners. The local councillor has doned tartan trousers and is starting the race off. Promenade and then sand. I will accept a little sand as we are by the sea. But only a little. Maybe I should change my five and a half hour estimate to a six hour estimate... I cruise along amongst some bumblebee-ballet-skirted relay runners, first laughing at the holidaymakers in their caravans on the cold Scottish morning and then imagining myself lounging in one of the grand mansions we pass along the coast. I chat to yellow-vest-man-number-two who is in the relay with his son as we come into the first checkpoint in Aberlady (8km-ish). Unfortunately my plantar fasciitis feet are grumbling to each other so I have to continue on and miss out on the pretzels. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlmwwnIxWmDo81eO4ruM89Geb1akHfAu6sjTv_BmVES_iiX1PgjxCeYV8RmHewLwiACqiFeqGheYudLnjk5pvb44qaJJG4vVQG2oh80ygWyZISwNzQNe_AJ-g3xxdyVAy1LgrA1AVAO9l/s1600/beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlmwwnIxWmDo81eO4ruM89Geb1akHfAu6sjTv_BmVES_iiX1PgjxCeYV8RmHewLwiACqiFeqGheYudLnjk5pvb44qaJJG4vVQG2oh80ygWyZISwNzQNe_AJ-g3xxdyVAy1LgrA1AVAO9l/s400/beach.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Due to the severe bout of laziitis that I have been suffering from for eighteen months, I am not in the best shape and have decided to cruise through the scenery slowly for the first half and then evaluate the body. There's a gradual incline on tarmac which I plod up confidently while two runners fly by me. Uncertain, I pick the pace up a little only to slow down again further on as I pick off a few more runners in a row than was necessary. It is hard to decide what to do; keep plodding because I am unfit or huff and puff away because it's not really and ultra anyway? More of an elongated marathon... The course zig zags around farmyards and stone walls. Despite having run between Edinburgh and North Berwick on numerous occasions (before my laziitis diagnosis), I've clearly not ever run on the John Muir Way properly as I hardly recognise the trails. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some uber friendly marshals help me across a road while I wave frantically at a black car. Turns out that the driver is not my husband Scott, but rather a now-confused older man. The second checkpoint comes at Archerfield (15km-ish) where Scott is waiting having enjoyed some breakfast. (A future note for any spectators, the café here is very nice). Due to a porridge mishap in the car, my breakfast of some blueberries and a tangerine wore off long ago. Deciding on which tray bake to eat at the checkpoint is difficult. I decide as long as it is not that one labelled 'Aussie bites' I will be ok. Those ones are probably there just to poison me. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHLb1dO5ZfYP56gVMSdpWy_mIYD7bDYL15utgNZtIEKqBilRM4pDnwegn0GGkpEOIDkX9dicPKGcjj9C__dsIcd20dfvUxnsW65bFF9PGZP91sDnyJXPC5J5rDUKGf_e1HnU3f5oWsUV_/s1600/road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHLb1dO5ZfYP56gVMSdpWy_mIYD7bDYL15utgNZtIEKqBilRM4pDnwegn0GGkpEOIDkX9dicPKGcjj9C__dsIcd20dfvUxnsW65bFF9PGZP91sDnyJXPC5J5rDUKGf_e1HnU3f5oWsUV_/s400/road.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next it is winding through woods, fields and fancy estates on our way to the halfway mark at North Berwick. Despite the car being iced over in the below zero temperatures this morning, and all the runners hovering in the buses until the last minute to stay warm, it now is a warm and glorious day in East Lothian. Coming into North Berwick I expect a flurry of relay runners to come past me in their final dash to the changeover. As most of the runners are likely in front of me already, this does not happen. Right, then first left and follow the signs to the beach. I promptly forget the instructions and stand about until another runner comes. It is a slog along the beach in full view of laughing spectators.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the checkpoint there is much excitement over the cola. I personally throw back three cups and express much joy for the banana pieces. I have been hungry and thirsty. Compliments are given to my freshness which I put down to having put a full face of makeup on in the car this morning. My only lapse has been a lack of lipgloss. Dehydration always shows up dreadfully on my lips. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Out of the checkpoint and I am again uncertain as to where to go. Or maybe I did know but did not want it to be true as the yellow arrow was directing me to the beach. There was no hard sand here AND a perfectly good road I could have been running down instead. Around the corner I find a runner dumping sand from her shoes. Next year the run should go up Berwick Law. I know another runner did go up but he organised charity sponsorship for it in advance. I have never been up and it would have been a good excuse if it was a compulsory checkpoint!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinHd6Nw2Ktwpv3vKH0WfjK_sL_GOKoyjM6Q0GpFnStAczLh7j2BidxSJvGaONiGSJ6sL4DaUBkFWqqF0EEOoN1_gOrHgWw5wSQSKdezm2GIdsbxnKJjz08REW6GfF1iWT0lBV7rxpZ-aOQ/s1600/pre+north+berwick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinHd6Nw2Ktwpv3vKH0WfjK_sL_GOKoyjM6Q0GpFnStAczLh7j2BidxSJvGaONiGSJ6sL4DaUBkFWqqF0EEOoN1_gOrHgWw5wSQSKdezm2GIdsbxnKJjz08REW6GfF1iWT0lBV7rxpZ-aOQ/s400/pre+north+berwick.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the heat some hail starts. Mister Rainjacket is in my bag but is it heavy enough yet? No. Some more undulations. Mud sliding. Runners are starting to slow and I am starting to go a little faster. Friendly marshals with some water. I am well parched and hungry again. I shove Honey Stingers in. Err, why is there a runner coming from my right? The marshals look concerned. Apparently loads of runners cut out a few miles accidently. It's from all the zig zagging. You can see runners places so you think you should go there. More mud sliding. I almost go right over. That would be funny if I had more gear to put on at the end but I do not. I am sure I was extremely graceful throughout the sliding though. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I then catch Gordon who has been guiding me from afar for some time in his vibrant yellow. We stand looking at a sign pointing left. I am thinking of going down a small track as I have seen some other runners on it. Later I will think about how this wouldn't make sense as it is a 180 degree turn back onto ourselves. Fortunately a runner from behind calls for us to take the larger track on the left. It's a relay runner who has already flown passed me. Nothing like a bit of extra mileage for bragging rights to your relay partner. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijpAisulxUTqEvvgTKa9whRr1QCdqYBIssipEpGbGktSlSKK4ORtDKJDs1-DioK0Zu5dVsKBkmahyWudKPUscqyRl3VbVtyNJa39Bqc0cbk3VbXtnGlG8X-_b8nZtrAHZ9N-Vbwj0eBvP5/s1600/last+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijpAisulxUTqEvvgTKa9whRr1QCdqYBIssipEpGbGktSlSKK4ORtDKJDs1-DioK0Zu5dVsKBkmahyWudKPUscqyRl3VbVtyNJa39Bqc0cbk3VbXtnGlG8X-_b8nZtrAHZ9N-Vbwj0eBvP5/s400/last+photo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shortly after there is some more light hail and I decide to press on a little. I do not fancy getting caught in a downpour and my legs are feeling good. With many runners participating in their first ultras, people are starting to slow down. Well done red t-shirt... blue t-shirt... red t-shirt number two... white t-shirt... red t-shirt number six hundred and one... must be the colour of the season. Hello undulation... ohhh check point. Cola. That's exciting. I'm out of throat lozenges. More tickly cola. One guy isn't looking too good with an ice pack on his knee. I overhear someone say that this is the marathon mark. Just 8km to go. I've no idea how long we have been out for but we are still running from the rain clouds. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Skinny trails and a few people with earphones in (naughty) so it is a bit awkward to get past them. A few people with cramps. They'll make it to the finish ok now. A 600m to go sign, very quickly followed by a 400m to go sign. A deer runs across the track. I'm so rural. For the first time, I cannot see any runners ahead. A 200m to go sign appears after what must have been at least double the distance! My power thighs are pounding along as I run across the grass to a very quiet finish. I think that the spectators were so cold that their cheers were frozen. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A jolly fun event on a lovely mixed-terrain course. Pleased to have finished in four hours 39 minutes; a hour quicker than my expected finish time and still feeling good at the finish. I came third lady which was such a surprise that I missed prizegiving because I was in the line for coffee. A girl needs to have priorities! Well done to Avril who flew in for first lady. Now was there a rumour that a longer race was being added for next year... </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiOxeEjEktPK9qi-sH8D4TpGzmLUKssCRpMfApADAq7AxLLC5wrhN3djSPpDbnjsV2bs443l_-R_TYG01tlUPqVPSvDIHzsTM7cvCN95jDNuMAMZ0K3NA24CD4ap72g0IwlPgaGhMRixO/s1600/medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiOxeEjEktPK9qi-sH8D4TpGzmLUKssCRpMfApADAq7AxLLC5wrhN3djSPpDbnjsV2bs443l_-R_TYG01tlUPqVPSvDIHzsTM7cvCN95jDNuMAMZ0K3NA24CD4ap72g0IwlPgaGhMRixO/s400/medal.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-40638198823979327142016-02-28T22:57:00.000+00:002016-02-29T19:43:53.339+00:00Spartathlon<div abp="752">
<em abp="1052">We are now five months post Spartathlon so I thought I should probably post this before a full year goes past! Also, my older sister just updated her blog and I do not like to be outdone. After three months not running a step I am slowing building the fitness up. Very slowly. In the meantime I have developed a love for red velvet cakes, took a last minute week-long trip to New Zealand (via China) and applied for British Citizenship . Plantar fasciitis is still having a wee snigger at me but I think I will have the better of him this year. And mostly, I am just keeping life in perspective. Many non-professional distance runners would benefit from doing the same. If you need some help, read my sisters blog here: <a abp="1249" href="http://oekiwiwithlymphoma.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span abp="1295" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><strong abp="1296">KIWI OE WITH LYMPHOMA</strong></span></a> </em></div>
<div abp="752">
</div>
<h2 abp="752">
<span abp="1053" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">An Event History</span></h2>
<div abp="753">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="754">
<span abp="1054" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There was some fighting happening in Athens and they needed some help. A dude ran to Sparta to ask some other fighting guys to give them a hand. He was not a bad runner and rumour has it that he made the journey in less than 36 hours. Unfortunately, the Sparta fighting guys said they would not help as their weekend market was on. The dude ran back to find out that his team won the fighting anyway. I hope he sat down and enjoyed a beer for his great efforts.</span></div>
<div abp="755">
<span abp="1055" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="756">
<span abp="1056" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many years later some other new-age dudes decided to test out this 36 hour rumour by attempting to run the route as best they could. Some succeeded and some did not. Now, the event attracks daft runners from all arounf the globe who attempt to follow in the original dude's footsteps. Epic.</span></div>
<div abp="757">
<span abp="1057" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<h2 abp="758">
<span abp="1058" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My 2015 History</span></h2>
<div abp="759">
<span abp="1059" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="760">
<span abp="1060" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A crazy 'ahhhh my sister has cancer' moment occured where I felt I had to live life to the full and make the most of every opportunity. I entered on a whim with qualifications from way back in 2013 when I was a fitter youngster. Entrants exceed places so most have to go into a competitive ballot. Exceptions to this ballot include if you meet super-runner qualification standards (official title obviously) or if you are the only runner from your country. In April I found out that I was in as I was the only runner from New Zealand. Being from a tiny island at the bottom of the world does hold benefits occassionally.</span></div>
<div abp="761">
<span abp="1061" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="762">
<span abp="1062" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Although I have only been running ultras for about four years, I would say that in reflection 2015 was the worst year I could have entered. A pelvis injury and plantar fasciitis plagued me throughout, leaving me unfit and out-of-shape for the year. I realised it was going to be a tough call and accepted the place on the last possible day, always hoping that the injuries would pass and I would be able to at least train for at least a few months. Sadly it was not to be and I spent more time swimming than running. How much of the Spartathlon was next to the sea?!</span></div>
<div abp="762">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div>
<div abp="1614" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1615" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP0FbMhOZwDF7If8oZJVPqrTQtolduM-ZQioPxbuxwYIbws1qJ5kXczkx2PF6yN-d_jJy42Dw2adFU0QIadWFt7qAkl1QcILoa5bFAZJUVQY6Uvx6XlmO01sjdjI6XDXdWCRwmEhytJp8L/s1600/pre+race.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1616" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP0FbMhOZwDF7If8oZJVPqrTQtolduM-ZQioPxbuxwYIbws1qJ5kXczkx2PF6yN-d_jJy42Dw2adFU0QIadWFt7qAkl1QcILoa5bFAZJUVQY6Uvx6XlmO01sjdjI6XDXdWCRwmEhytJp8L/s400/pre+race.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
<div abp="762">
</div>
<div abp="763">
<span abp="1063" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<h2 abp="764">
<span abp="1064" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Spartathlon Time!</span></h2>
<div abp="765">
<span abp="1065" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="766">
<span abp="1066" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wonder if maybe you do not belong somewhere? Try rocking up to registration surrounded by everyone in running kit, constantly lip-smacking on about expensive races. We are obviously all here to do a bit of jogging folks, no need to hang about in all the gear. I'd like to see a wee bit more personality in the area; some skinny jeans, a grandpa jumper.... Thank goodness for Debbie and Sharon's fake tans saving the day.</span></div>
<div abp="767">
<span abp="1067" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="768">
<span abp="1068" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Prior to arrival I had been warned about Greek-time and the more relaxed approach taken by the race organisers. Registration from 1-5pm can mean that is actually when they fancy taking a nap! For race morning, I had a prorridge pot in the hotel room as the line for breakfast was rather long. I would recommend also doing this. The runners took buses to the start line while the support crews got their Greek-driving on and followed suit.</span></div>
<div abp="769">
</div>
<div abp="770">
<span abp="1070" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was an exciting year for the Spartathlon. After twenty-whatever years of race organisation, they were finally going to have port-a-loos at the Acropolis start line. Runners were eager to find these and avoid defecating in a heritage site. Unfortunately, twenty-whatever years of event organisation is just not enough to get the port-a-loos to actually arrive. Fingers crossed for 2016; I do hope that you will be the fortunate ones. Minutes before the start and I could not decide if I should run with a handheld or backpack. Most people had belts and handhelds but I had not enough time training to try them out. Thanks to Marco for easing the last minute panic; I am comfortable wearing a pack, stick to it.</span></div>
<div abp="771">
<span abp="1071" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="1652" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1653" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfPE-RteNgBQgeZAGRQAbf8mAvvmbKVJmDMubtnKud3zK5UJ-0ARB7gvIW4HlkuUBN_9QzCstMHFJjWlt1_DvDe1x2DWmHzSm43VnI6GzjdsHQMOn1MjuTfOZJIb3byXR83_MTVJ_67lR/s1600/hotel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1654" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfPE-RteNgBQgeZAGRQAbf8mAvvmbKVJmDMubtnKud3zK5UJ-0ARB7gvIW4HlkuUBN_9QzCstMHFJjWlt1_DvDe1x2DWmHzSm43VnI6GzjdsHQMOn1MjuTfOZJIb3byXR83_MTVJ_67lR/s400/hotel.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
<div abp="771">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div>
<div abp="771">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div>
<div abp="772">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The start was a bit of a scramble. Downhill on cobblestones that may be slippery from years of being worn down by tourists. Waving to the hookers, drunks and party-goers finishing off their nights as the sun rose. A few gypsies out, waiting for us to clear out of the Acropolis so they could get the best begging spots. They, like everyone else in Greece, hoping to be handed out a bit of cash.</span></div>
<div abp="773">
<span abp="1072" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="774">
<span abp="1073" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Main roads were cleared and junctions blocked so the race could dominate the streets. It was strange to be running with so many others and I found it hard to know if I was keeping an even pace or not. Not that I had a watch or any pace in mind but one does not want to go off like a loose bullet. There are checkpoints every few miles and each runner can choose how many drop bags they want. I am having my drop bags at CP5, CP10 and so forth. At first I do not need to fill up my bottles or take water at every checkpoint which is just as well as there are so many runners the volunteers cannot keep up. I would advise trying to be self-sufficeint at the beginning otherwise you will get unnecessarily frustrated about the situation.</span></div>
<div abp="775">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="776">
<span abp="1074" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Other than lacking confidence in my running style and pace, I am having a jolly good time. I've placed myself behind two Israeli runners who seem to be comfortable. I have already made friends with another Israeli runner, Ariel, in the hotel, so know that one of the runners in front has completed the Spartathlon before.</span></div>
<div abp="777">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="778">
<span abp="1075" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some of the police officers blocking the junctions for us are starting to look familiar. I am sure that one blocked the road just around the corner. It is a wee reminder of how close those cut-off points are. Not that any one at this point is going too slow, it is just that at the beginning of the race you do not have much time to make up time. I do not know what the time is, nor the cut-off times so do not worry.</span></div>
<div abp="779">
<span abp="1076" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="780">
<span abp="1077" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At my first custard feeding station I panic and jog round the corner to get out of the way. I find myself with my head over a rubbish bin scoffing custard at an alarming rate and being laughed at by a Britsh runner. I pick up the water consumption, eating HoneyStinger chews from my backpack at each checkpoint. Keeping on top of all this body stuff that accompanies this running stuff.</span></div>
<div abp="781">
<span abp="1078" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="782">
<span abp="1079" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are a few undulations and I decide to plod slowly up these. Most people around me walk but I am mindful that I like to march up the hills when walking and decide that it is easier on my leg muscles to do slow plodding. The busy roads with cars and trucks screaming by do not bother me at all. I got quite confident in Istanbul walking out in front of cars. Only one runner has had to smash their fist on a car so far. I'm having a great time. </span></div>
<div abp="782">
</div>
<div abp="782">
</div>
<div abp="1820" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1821" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqoCnVhY8xKiDT7cN53flD1OMK7wlp44hEMyFJMG7_qY2QBPD9SwBtIAYrqJ9cOjpwyZuJeXx5bBDXGTfmL8GXjvs0GnesVY0BE8UZEdAoI9Atq-jNPUFCWYvh1icJCAryhhZwWvS5_zIb/s1600/marathon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1822" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqoCnVhY8xKiDT7cN53flD1OMK7wlp44hEMyFJMG7_qY2QBPD9SwBtIAYrqJ9cOjpwyZuJeXx5bBDXGTfmL8GXjvs0GnesVY0BE8UZEdAoI9Atq-jNPUFCWYvh1icJCAryhhZwWvS5_zIb/s400/marathon.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="783">
<span abp="1080" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="784">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Scott is waiting at the marathon point with the other support crews. This is the first place that the crews are allowed to provide assistance. The crews have been great at cheering and honking throughout. Although I do not have a drop bag here I attempt a water refill only to see that there is no water immediately available. I must carry on through. The next big checkpoint will be at about 50 miles at the Corinth Canal. I am genuinely thrilled at the prospect of running over the canal. I do suspect that if I was not teaching children with additional needs, I would be building bridges. Except<em> </em>I do not like swing bridges; those are well dodgy.</span></div>
<div abp="785">
<span abp="1081" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="786">
<span abp="1082" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just another marathon to go until the exciting canal moment. It is time for some ice, ice, baby. Ice in my hat. Ice in my British Spartathlon buff wrapped around my wrist. Ice on my neck. Ice in my crop top. No ice in my drinks though. I am part Scottish; cannae be doing with cold beverages. I am enjoying this ice-ness and feel comfortable with it. In June I ran the Kaunas Marathon time in 30 degrees and felt like I died slightly less than the other runners in the heat. It is warm but it is OK.</span></div>
<div abp="787">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="788">
<span abp="1083" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A bottle of ginger beer appears as an oasis in one of my drop bags. A drop bag that has been left out in the burning sun. Somehow, my brain does not calculate the consequences of this and my mouth begins its guzzle mode. Suddenly, a fountain of ginger beer spouts from my mouth. It is darn hot. I stick to the orange juice on the table instead, whilst struggling to chew through a melted peanut butter wrap.</span></div>
<div abp="789">
<span abp="1084" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="790">
<span abp="1085" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is an oil refinery that the course runs through that previous runners have complained about. Ahhh, the smell. Ahhh, the dead animals. Ahhh, the dead people.... I cannot even remember running through it or ever smelling anything bad. I just remember beautiful ocean and an old Greeek guy telling everyone to cheer up and enjoy the view. I was whooping and waving and skipping. This is my summer holiday people. </span></div>
<div abp="790">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div>
<div abp="1838" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1839" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbLhT01dk1kTmYpgR2RBgLbvXyZxy6UDNhEPr8-uVCNvWkM8An06fheDJg8KqacDAoKrQjvja-ga6h17MUXXmULlUFamuVrUfycAMuuU_YtMbSTaCZjdBab0OdX3dg89gqo2hUpCKct45/s1600/not+me+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1840" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbLhT01dk1kTmYpgR2RBgLbvXyZxy6UDNhEPr8-uVCNvWkM8An06fheDJg8KqacDAoKrQjvja-ga6h17MUXXmULlUFamuVrUfycAMuuU_YtMbSTaCZjdBab0OdX3dg89gqo2hUpCKct45/s400/not+me+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="790">
</div>
<div abp="791">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="792">
<span abp="1086" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am not sure how many hours we have been going but I register that I have not peed. Using the ladies room alongside a road whilst in a string of runners is a stressful ordeal. I am officially on bush-spotting duties. Apologies to the Japenese runner who captures a view of me staggering out whilst trying to pull my sweat-soaked shorts up. He did not deserve that. I am dizzy. I need to eat and drink at the next stop regardless of what is available. An apple and my new favourite; orange juice.</span></div>
<div abp="793">
<span abp="1087" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="794">
<span abp="1088" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At some point I pass Matt from Canada, rocking the coolest hat of the race. Then I pass Sean Maley, who's just stretching his legs after winning La High Ultra. Plodding is my happy place and Corinth Canal sneaks up on me. I feel like a celebrity running across the canal and into the throbbing checkpoint. I attempt some pasta, but with no fork I just stick my fingers in and grab a handful of Parmesan cheese. My feet have been giving me grief for some time so I decide to walk out of the checkpoint rather than stop. Plantar fasciitis is not kind to those who stop.</span></div>
<div abp="794">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div>
<div abp="1745" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1746" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwKxc0a1rXLFx76OEamaJhmD9CioMhyphenhyphensUDvqEnL3sB-FUCcbAGZkovIp94hk3bMThupAkD1wdVt4oHAI0_8nSvh47dGlLoW4EzqWg6IuDHHbGKllUS27Vz3d2XT8TccE1JGXEjZN7Ve7kX/s1600/conrinth.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1747" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwKxc0a1rXLFx76OEamaJhmD9CioMhyphenhyphensUDvqEnL3sB-FUCcbAGZkovIp94hk3bMThupAkD1wdVt4oHAI0_8nSvh47dGlLoW4EzqWg6IuDHHbGKllUS27Vz3d2XT8TccE1JGXEjZN7Ve7kX/s400/conrinth.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="1748">
</div>
<div abp="1749" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1750" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-q7v_VEphe0zJqv7gWew71_YR3mglLy2Nqiw5m4nEwmmvdN4UaZJwFxCFnZXXom9qCEEjv5aqCS2cYBDlDHbIJrpI-hNsyH57cTTi3tGTl_muy2hFn-UWX8uuELc0cFoBrM0Rtrt_TUF/s1600/walk+out.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1751" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-q7v_VEphe0zJqv7gWew71_YR3mglLy2Nqiw5m4nEwmmvdN4UaZJwFxCFnZXXom9qCEEjv5aqCS2cYBDlDHbIJrpI-hNsyH57cTTi3tGTl_muy2hFn-UWX8uuELc0cFoBrM0Rtrt_TUF/s400/walk+out.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="794">
</div>
<div abp="795">
<span abp="1089" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="796">
<span abp="1090" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And then the limping really begins. We pass through olive groves and grape vines; neither like I had pictured. Just plod, plod, plod. All runners the same. I think we all looked similar; slightly distressed but nothing major. Who was really feeling what, you could not tell. By now the temperature was dropping slightly and there was not the need for ice frenzies. At one checkpoint, some lovely older Greek men get excited by my name and I do a few photoshoots. They wish me luck. I do not have the heart to tell them that I know I will not be finishing. I have probably now run further than I have in the last two months combined and my plantars remind me so. And then, because I have stopped for so long, it is a slow limp out of the checkpoint until the foot pain becomes a normality again.</span></div>
<div abp="797">
<span abp="1091" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="798">
<span abp="1092" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At Ancient Corinth I have a thirty second high. At Halkion Village a low. A slice of pizza from Scott. Turns out he was offering it to all the ladies. What a charmer. In need of the bathroom I ask at a gas station. No problem. The lights are put on for me; do I want water, cola, an ice lolly? The locals get amongst the event so well.</span></div>
<div abp="798">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div>
<div abp="1701" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1702" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIy25GoCUIxrbM14Kc_KbHHNnRJgHzSrVmWtNM8RlmDgFX9QP1IHrzkEAWv0Ai02kARknltEGqoveVzJiiF57PfSakTBugaSaAl3EVsO2bRxDOvnbe8vnuu0YwM05rx37WuYilTPPg_iO-/s1600/ancient.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1703" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIy25GoCUIxrbM14Kc_KbHHNnRJgHzSrVmWtNM8RlmDgFX9QP1IHrzkEAWv0Ai02kARknltEGqoveVzJiiF57PfSakTBugaSaAl3EVsO2bRxDOvnbe8vnuu0YwM05rx37WuYilTPPg_iO-/s400/ancient.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="1704">
</div>
<div abp="1705" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1706" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpli5kNYm0soDK4g5cTpNFL2ulltG9VEY4wj1N8EgQbS9YqmljXxhUfOFaj38p6LFgglHSbKilZRmDcvUhFZMgjuNdalaT4DY9n3D5nw-0ZTHNqlDhQIZKWV3_eySUcZU9d0aO_2t7L2H/s1600/happy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1707" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpli5kNYm0soDK4g5cTpNFL2ulltG9VEY4wj1N8EgQbS9YqmljXxhUfOFaj38p6LFgglHSbKilZRmDcvUhFZMgjuNdalaT4DY9n3D5nw-0ZTHNqlDhQIZKWV3_eySUcZU9d0aO_2t7L2H/s400/happy.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="798">
</div>
<div abp="799">
<span abp="1093" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="800">
<span abp="1094" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After this, I start to slow down. I change bags and pick up my head troch earlier than I need it. I am starting to intentionally waste time. Over the next 10km the light fades and I am barely moving. Walking does not make my feet and better but running on them means my heels will be hitting the ground more often. I try tip toeing for a few km.</span></div>
<div abp="801">
<span abp="1095" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="802">
<span abp="1096" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I trudge in the dark on an isolated road, I think that every runner who passes me is the last runner. I hear a large vehicle grinding up the hill behind me. I am relieved that the death bus has finally caught me. The death bus? Yes, the bus that lingers at the back of the race, picking up runners who do not make the cut-offs in time. But it is not the death bus; just a crew van. Where's Sean? He needs to pass me soon or he will not finish. Every time I hear a runner, I hope that it is him passing me.</span></div>
<div abp="803">
<span abp="1097" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="804">
<span abp="1098" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eventually, I limp into Nemea. There is a chair ready. My head in my hands. The death bus is miles away; I have made it to the checkpoint with 90 minutes to spare. This is plenty. It is a shock. I do not want to run another 70-whatever miles on these feet. I cannae be arsed.</span></div>
<div abp="805">
<span abp="1099" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="806">
<span abp="1100" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My quads are tired but they are ok. It is actually quite nice to have tired legs for a change. Sean trots in safely. A medic watches me closely. Do I need a massage? I stand up. I will walk to the next checkpoints until I time out. No. The medic brings a blanket. It is cooling down. Scott will support my decision either way. Damn his supportive qualities. The next checkpoint is about 4km away. This is actually a bigger gap than usual. At my rate of limping it might take an hour. I will still be ahead of the cut-off. Then another 3km. Still ahead of the cut-off.</span></div>
<div abp="807">
</div>
<div abp="808">
<span abp="1102" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The medic coaxes me to see some other doctors. My feet are massaged, iced. Another doctor comes, jams his finger into my plantar. I yelp. One guy is sweet and wants me to continue. The doctor knows there is no point. My physio has already warned me of tearing the plantar; I know the drill. How cold will I get if I walk. I could be cut-off at the next checkpoint now if I walked which would be a welcome relief. I do not have any layers until ages away though. The next checkpoint is also not one that Scott is allowed at, meaning I would be finishing alone. At previous checkpoints there had been crew members milling about when they shouldn't have been but Scott and I were born rule-followers</span></div>
<div abp="808">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div>
<div abp="810">
<span abp="1104" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I do not want to go any further. I want out. My number is off. In the car I recline the chair, wrap myself in a foil blanket and go to sleep. I am very pleased to be going no further. Scott wakes me up in time to give Dan Lawson a cheer. He's leading the race but comes over for a chat anyway. Always good to keep things real.</span></div>
<div abp="811">
<span abp="1105" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="812">
<span abp="1106" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next day we enjoy cheering on the finishers in Sparta whilst drinking beer. I cry a little at breakfast and then when I am giving Ariel a hug after finishing. Other than that, I am a cool bean. My only regret is that I did not walk it out although I realise that I made the safest decision. We had a great few days in Istanbul and enjoyed celebrating with others. A wee hint if you do not finish; do not go to the lunch the following day as your number will get called out and you will need to do a mortifying walk of shame!</span></div>
<div abp="812">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div>
<div abp="1584" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1585" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUJWmCQA2WfUMBijIwiFZJSTNWSSzemC9sZspo3mFCYcpJnj-WJg60R9fjB9bsPD1_oUfzG4k5HINemRE6MoaXKYkLBCdepXYdlI1QTbd0UWl7tXXGSCpqEvrOTRvZxw25KV-0Bdls8nk/s1600/shame.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1586" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUJWmCQA2WfUMBijIwiFZJSTNWSSzemC9sZspo3mFCYcpJnj-WJg60R9fjB9bsPD1_oUfzG4k5HINemRE6MoaXKYkLBCdepXYdlI1QTbd0UWl7tXXGSCpqEvrOTRvZxw25KV-0Bdls8nk/s320/shame.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div abp="1587">
</div>
<div abp="1588" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1589" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_U-qCzwJibZqYK_58HDfj7FjvFAMfXPos5zFXIHa_uHiuKolfu2CtgN8LCxSkRf1qPa4AZO0pplsSjwgCTYoTQ3MpEeOJedVS9c5i3LoEnFy88EyO66DEsfZefoK5o3w0EbuYyFdvVSqH/s1600/dinner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1590" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_U-qCzwJibZqYK_58HDfj7FjvFAMfXPos5zFXIHa_uHiuKolfu2CtgN8LCxSkRf1qPa4AZO0pplsSjwgCTYoTQ3MpEeOJedVS9c5i3LoEnFy88EyO66DEsfZefoK5o3w0EbuYyFdvVSqH/s320/dinner.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div abp="812">
</div>
<div abp="813">
<span abp="1109" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div abp="814">
<span abp="1110" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A huge thank you to Kim Allan and Sean Maley for inspiring me to enter, to the British team who let me hang out with them, to Kyle for entertaining Scott, to the new friends I made throughout and all the wonderful volunteers and locals. Thanks to Scott for forfeiting a more appropriate summer holiday and dealing with all the injury drama in the lead up. Will I try it again? No time soon but maybe in twenty years when I am having a midlife crisis! I think that my quarter life crisis faze is officially over. </span></div>
<div abp="815">
<span abp="1111" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<h2 abp="816">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Any lessons?</span> </h2>
<div abp="818">
<span abp="1112" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<ul abp="819"><span abp="1113" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span>
<li abp="820"><span abp="1114" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">KEEP COOL - Both physically and mentally. Put ice on your cap and don't worry so much. I was nauseous for about three days afterwards so although I thought I was careful with the heat, it probably had more impact than I thought. </span></li>
<span abp="1115" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span>
<li abp="821"><span abp="1116" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">SLOW DOWN - You are a competent runner so you are probably going too fast. I did not run in the months before the race and still made the tougher cut-offs at the beginning by plodding as slow as I could. </span></li>
<span abp="1117" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span>
<li abp="822"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">SMILE - It is so much fun! Ok, so I can only vouch for the first 70 miles which were not that hard. How the runners kept going on the Saturday, I have no idea. That looked soul-destroying. A massive congratulations to them.</span></li>
<span abp="1118" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span></ul>
<div abp="823">
<div abp="824">
<span abp="1119" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Also, the prizegiving is less prizegiving and more piss up so do not book an early morning flight on the Tuesday! </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="825">
<br /></div>
<div abp="826">
</div>
<div abp="827">
<br /></div>
<div abp="828">
<br /></div>
<div abp="829">
<br /></div>
<div abp="830">
<br /></div>
<div abp="831">
<br /></div>
<div abp="832">
<br /></div>
<div abp="833">
<br /></div>
<div abp="834">
<br /></div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com5Greece39.074208 21.82431199999996432.695553 11.497163499999964 45.452863 32.151460499999963tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-2992109960366217712015-07-28T19:37:00.001+01:002015-07-28T19:55:21.803+01:00Thunder 24 Hour Run<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUWp2DRLW4rXqfg_lIKZ9uYaIIYRgWL-hc8ZkQpWSUBbIwTxU4EL4cRA3sV_kRj7HcpLjUKDoPS9CWBukFTrh9II4kL6Py8F8bL8wfU0wgDnV8rrUBR8GefvtL-YNHCLjwM2STjNdhYSq/s1600/jacket+start.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUWp2DRLW4rXqfg_lIKZ9uYaIIYRgWL-hc8ZkQpWSUBbIwTxU4EL4cRA3sV_kRj7HcpLjUKDoPS9CWBukFTrh9II4kL6Py8F8bL8wfU0wgDnV8rrUBR8GefvtL-YNHCLjwM2STjNdhYSq/s640/jacket+start.JPG" width="360" /></a> </div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
The thunder run is a bit of a party. Last year I got an entry a few weeks before and it was a good excuse to see my sister and in-laws. A few months ago we all penciled it in again as a good excuse to catch up. I waited until after the Great Glen double until getting a confirmed entry as I wanted to see whether my legs would recover enough for the full 24 hours or whether I should convince someone else to do the 12 hour with me. Ten days prior to the race, my older sister had just come out of hospital and was not going to be well enough to crew. Should I bother trying to get an entry? Yes no, yes no. Aye. With a week to go, I got an entry confirmation. Then wham, four days before the race, even worse news about my sister. After some frantic early morning packing and some emergency flights to Brighton booked, my giant Nathan pack was left in Edinburgh full of running gear with a huge 'MAYBE' sign plastered on it. I did not know what the right decision was. I did know that transport in the South hates me though as I tried my best to hold it together with every delay and cancellation possible. Finally, on the Friday night, I charmed a guard into letting me onto the train and spent two hours sitting on the floor opposite the toilet bawling my eyes out whilst Southerners pretended not to notice. If I wasn't winning at life before this moment, I certainly was now. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I was in need of as much stress release as possible, I decided to run. Scott was going to be my solo crew member; a lonely job as he knew nobody at the event (except for the friendly Osmo team). My goal was not to sleep. That was all I wanted. We didn't set up the tent. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQVIfS-Yr9-ImFZLGnb__THebyLEu7q7CBJMYFmalDzXgoKTUP6kTJp2Od9rAJ4tcfGekgTJ3rCfROPkXAKMck2GwVM3IU-Mt5A5fSy5vqVtRrRqOoP8CTYac8L9Eul-s2ADpiGXrplOJC/s1600/start+body.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQVIfS-Yr9-ImFZLGnb__THebyLEu7q7CBJMYFmalDzXgoKTUP6kTJp2Od9rAJ4tcfGekgTJ3rCfROPkXAKMck2GwVM3IU-Mt5A5fSy5vqVtRrRqOoP8CTYac8L9Eul-s2ADpiGXrplOJC/s640/start+body.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the start line I recognised a few solo and pair runners from last year which was a nice feeling at such a big (and non-Scottish) event. Laps are a 10km trail loop which loops back near the camp often but is otherwise quite varied with the terrain. Last year it was hot and the course was dry. This year it is hot but due to the previous nights rain, the course is not dry. There is some mud. I haven't done cross-country since I was a child. It turns out I run on mud with the same grace and speed as I run on ice. These could be long laps. A few people fall. I tip-toe at the very edge of the trail, gripping trees and apologising profusely if I held someone up behind me. After surviving the first mud section, a second mud section then arrived. I cannot remember if I was crossing the mud trail purposefully, or if my graceful slide had already begun, but I ended up no longer on my feet. It was obviously a very elegant slip that resulted in both hands and my right leg covered in mud. That's going to be great when I need to grab that peeled banana from Scott at the end of this lap. Thirty minutes into a 24 hour race and I'd say it has started reasonably well! I had the pleasure of Sarah's company for the first lap and she managed to capture the aftermath with this cracker of a photo. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEm-R2t6Wl9N23Es3B0rUlEuV4qGRpKcq9ztM-ZmiUBuO7cFyvOdyLLpV5Fc6iEmYxlhBx3vjpLXDz-jaQiAX1MIGtSCiyurm8I7COOY088D5BWDR5vY60DzLAhg5mMeMsHjk2rCAlYcwY/s1600/muddy2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEm-R2t6Wl9N23Es3B0rUlEuV4qGRpKcq9ztM-ZmiUBuO7cFyvOdyLLpV5Fc6iEmYxlhBx3vjpLXDz-jaQiAX1MIGtSCiyurm8I7COOY088D5BWDR5vY60DzLAhg5mMeMsHjk2rCAlYcwY/s640/muddy2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the first four laps my feet were bugging me and I was finding it a hard slog. I am trying to run a bit slower than I did last year but only wrote down a few splits to keep behind. As much as I have been denying it to myself, I do have plantar fasciitis in both feet. It's not usually too bad when I run, although it is worse on the trail and has been annoying me more in the last month. When I stop, it's horrendous. I'll sort it out in the winter.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Between six and seven in the evening there is a timed race up a small hill section of the course. As I approach the bottom timing lap a marshal looks at me and makes a comment about me probably not taking part in the competition. Who is he kidding? I jog up with another solo runner. I haven't had a confirmation but I am pretty sure we took the win in the competition. It was rather amusing to find that people didn't understand how it worked and occasionally throughout the day you'd find people sprinting up and then walking at the top. What?!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scott lets me have some of his beer. It's warm. I'm thirsty. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwUNWoyoOM5s4T0KvFIuEOvCwCLh-i4YkH88DCsrDLe2IjEpWXCNROQfQESjfD-T67vD-GPzdmzYImCA-mY0hvjJQi2k0KVxEI8yAX-yBAQVbw7F79rH-9SuBXFaj83pufXxm0UIrahOr/s1600/beer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwUNWoyoOM5s4T0KvFIuEOvCwCLh-i4YkH88DCsrDLe2IjEpWXCNROQfQESjfD-T67vD-GPzdmzYImCA-mY0hvjJQi2k0KVxEI8yAX-yBAQVbw7F79rH-9SuBXFaj83pufXxm0UIrahOr/s640/beer.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Beer and Osmo; the best kind of hydration </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKno-TuySer-61jPWEUtQDqyP6Zxn6ODPJOMJdbtDrnu3lfOYn8JAU-9Fq8xUUggbpCFEMBHP4rDn3k3kwsMDePAkyxrwMdqaJcATMWs8sagz8R4-6_t8qKhC4d9NzDpdQp13HDMD7SvU/s1600/running.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKno-TuySer-61jPWEUtQDqyP6Zxn6ODPJOMJdbtDrnu3lfOYn8JAU-9Fq8xUUggbpCFEMBHP4rDn3k3kwsMDePAkyxrwMdqaJcATMWs8sagz8R4-6_t8qKhC4d9NzDpdQp13HDMD7SvU/s640/running.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scott tells me I am looking comfortable which means I should probably have become an actress. I am waiting to have a good lap. My patience is rewarded and I find the next four laps much more comfortable and stop for dinner at about nine o'clock, having run eight laps and 80km. As I am eating my dinner I hear the announcer say that I am the leading solo woman by 50 minutes and am expected in soon. That's ridiculous; no one wants to be leading a 24 hour race when they are only nine hours in! I'm trying to keep on top of my nutrition, knowing that I need to be mentally sharp in order to push through the night. I take a Nathan handheld bottle for 2km and then throw it back to Scott. My throwing accuracy is a skill I am yet to perfect. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGVXFk_wvTZAhvzNBYBxLEEh-WM7LOX6ui8NhKb7hu0lJNFooyQT5IDkJc1sICtnKFfRLgzWIcktt8gRRgZfabervfrp4iBr_9_SRr0mtZHA5sOypuOfUsWfMgFhwuzI_ukTX_hOQ0z0FG/s1600/dinner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGVXFk_wvTZAhvzNBYBxLEEh-WM7LOX6ui8NhKb7hu0lJNFooyQT5IDkJc1sICtnKFfRLgzWIcktt8gRRgZfabervfrp4iBr_9_SRr0mtZHA5sOypuOfUsWfMgFhwuzI_ukTX_hOQ0z0FG/s640/dinner.JPG" width="356" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The support for me around the campsite is really uplifting. I definitely sped up going past the drunk team chanting 'solo, solo!' Unfortunately when it gets dark a quiet time is enforced and the runners are left out alone. It's great that families are encouraged to come to the event; it's something I would have loved myself as a child. They should probably make a family area with a quiet time though and let everyone else party on and support the runners. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Occasionally I get to speak to another runner for a few hundred metres but otherwise I run by myself and it is a pretty hard and lonely slog. I did enjoy speaking to the few solo runners that I did though as most of them were going to be achieving distance pb's during the event and I really like hearing about that. This year I am much more confident with my head torch and start chugging through the night laps. From 100km I can feel the top of my left calf becoming tight. I know that I have been running funny because of my feet so it was only a matter of time before another part of my body was going to take the hit. I need to be careful going down the hills. I remind myself that I am running through the night for my sister who is too ill to be here. If I wasn't going to be with her for her last weekend in the UK, then I had better not bloody sleep. I should do something spectacular; like a backflip. So I do a backflip. Well, in my head I did one. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Constantly being lapped is getting tiring. I am trying really hard to keep my line on the rougher trails in the dark but I can't just jump out of the way like I could at the beginning. Most of the other runners pass with no problem, thanking me when they can see I am making an effort to keep to one side or letting me know politely which side they are passing on. Some team runners also recognise that I am a solo runner and give me a cheer. Funnily enough, when I pass other solo runners and give them a 'well done' I only get a positive response back half of the time! It is stressful when you can hear a bunch of runners catching you quickly on a narrow trail but that is not their fault. My legs just can't lift over all those tree roots anymore! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some runners obviously thought they were doing something record-breaking though and would scream that they were coming through even though the track was wide enough for them to not have bothered. I am not surprised that club runners have bad reputations amongst the running (and general) population. Unfortunately it only takes a few bad eggs to make the whole tray smell. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJRCif37UQ3MLOA6V_5D-O-_3uOvICLRpGoe9lR6TpP1ynO2nT-eZ8MQUUgN730EKGjyZjhaKA-zC_uFgtKy0GxdbilTXcju93-iwP6pqRS45euZttUuiX-FgrKJpWL2Iqv-4ZEFCRPfx/s1600/sunset.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJRCif37UQ3MLOA6V_5D-O-_3uOvICLRpGoe9lR6TpP1ynO2nT-eZ8MQUUgN730EKGjyZjhaKA-zC_uFgtKy0GxdbilTXcju93-iwP6pqRS45euZttUuiX-FgrKJpWL2Iqv-4ZEFCRPfx/s640/sunset.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBk3KiRWzf85PjdktRG5QytRqH-mBL5k0xIt1LMCVP7HJiENZ-UDGmaRoBXD5HiHdZ1z9N9Vdz1eejF6oDk7_fJF9QJpmYKge8sRIOc-Sc29t3TA5KKpi5C2ft6C9115wqjEWDcPh_pc7/s1600/sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBk3KiRWzf85PjdktRG5QytRqH-mBL5k0xIt1LMCVP7HJiENZ-UDGmaRoBXD5HiHdZ1z9N9Vdz1eejF6oDk7_fJF9QJpmYKge8sRIOc-Sc29t3TA5KKpi5C2ft6C9115wqjEWDcPh_pc7/s640/sign.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Darling, hold my HAAAAAND</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, won't you hold my HAAAAAND </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">'Cause I don't wanna walk on my own anymore</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Won't you understand? </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">'Cause I don't wanna walk alone</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm ready for this, there's no denying</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm ready for this, you stop me falling</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm ready for this, I need you all in</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm ready for this, so darling, hold my HAAAAAND </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I need to apologise to all the runners who heard me sing the song lyrics above, out of tune, during the night. One of my kids loves the song and it was making me happy. There was quite a bit of pain going on. I was using my arms quite a bit to keep me going. I was running until I reached 14 laps (140km) and then stopping for breakfast. On the thirteenth lap I started tripping often. I was a bit tired but not overwhelmingly so. It was dark. Mostly though, there were only certain positions I could get my left leg into. I really needed to be careful with that calf. On my fourteenth lap the sun started rising and the tripping stopped. I had to walk the downhills to prevent using my left calf and my right knee was starting to hurt as I slammed it down, leaving it to take all the weight. I passed another solo runner on this lap who looked to be in a similar amount of pain. I feel ya buddy, I really do. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Other runners are starting to ask if I am ok and comment on my limping style. I had been lapping between 1:20 and 1:30 for the last four laps. I jumped into the car after 14 laps at 5:30am. Mentally I was sharp but very worried about the damage I was doing to my calf. Once breakfast was finished at 6am, 18 hours into the race, my lap options looked like this: </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Continue slowly, lapping at an hour 30 per lap. This would have me finishing 18 laps on the dot of 24 hours, with the possibility of sneaking in a 19th lap if I ran one lap five minutes quicker. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Walk until the 24 hours was over. This would have me taking two hours to do a lap, thereby having me finishing with 17 laps (or 18 if I could squeeze an extra one in).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Start lapping a bit faster once the sun and supporters came out, realistically running a maximum of 19 laps. </span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I genuinely believed that the first option was the most likely and I was happy with that as the aim was not to sleep. Mission accomplished thus far. As I came in for breakfast I told Scott that I was worried about my calf and worried about the Spartathalon. I think he thought I was worried about the Spartathalon because it's insane (and I am) but what I meant was that I was worried about a new injury. I got up to walk after breakfast. It wasn't pretty. I crossed the start/finish line feeling very worried. Should I walk around to the 2km mark and hope that I loosen up? Shall I stop at the physio? All the physio beds were full and there were at least nine people waiting. How much damage is walking like this doing? I can feel my pelvis hurting. The pelvis that has ruined so much of my year already. I cannot straighten my leg. There are a few tears. Last years thunder run pal Chris wants to know if it is a good idea for me to be continuing... It takes me an hour to walk the 2km back around to the campsite. I have to hold onto trees to pull myself up the inclines, I am a danger to the other runners on the narrow trails. At this rate I could walk another lap before the 24 hours is up and then start a 16th. But the damage I could cause is not worth it. My run today is over. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In hindsight I should probably have forced my solo status in the physio tent and demanded to be treated next but it feels a bit egocentric. I spoke to another solo runner who really needed some physio earlier on but had the same problem with relay runners taking over the tent so had to limp on also. As I was limping the other runners on the course were fabulous. Some wondered if it was cramp and so many offered to help me get to the campsite as I clearly couldn't move properly. I am not sure what the problem was but I found crawling much easier for the next 24 hours. When I got out of the car at my in-laws (at 8:30am when the race was still going) Scott had to hold me as I could not straighten my leg to hold myself up. Highly amusing. I kept it glamorous though; arranging bath mats all over the bathroom floor so I didn't have to crawl on the cold tiles! At one point, with Scott and my tracksuit downstairs, I thought I was going to have to crawl down in my pants in order to get assistance! Thankfully my scream for help was eventually answered. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Huge thanks for all the support I got on the course. I ran 144 miles three weeks ago so it was a hard slog on the legs from the beginning and the support kept me positive throughout. Also a massive thanks to my mother-in-law who waited on me when I couldn't move from the sofa on the Sunday! And finally to Scott, who got dragged into a very boring 18 hours of supporting alone and dealt with my specific bottle requirements. Fortunately, the family next to him supporting another solo runner were very kind. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sometimes in races I have mentally given up and I have tried to be honest in those situations (most 24 hour races). This time, I am confident that I made a sensible decision. I left the race as the leader because health is more important than winning. And that truly makes me feel like a winner. Overall, I actually came in forth and held the lead for over four hours after I stopped! By that time, I was in a different county drinking wine and eating sausage rolls on a sofa. I do like to do things a little differently :) Well done to everyone who started and finished the race, each achieving their own goals. </span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8z5IQtDAvdegSdbryg69p8J9R9FbqBa4PbShkG3mn5quAzdxBA4wbPmRqG-6HYaK6Hk2MgFmNc0UEU_vomm-2FcDRQ60CkbjryQrNiyP3LSbzif_NkjXrFX33PTNqTjuybbKmfMId_Lw/s1600/arms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8z5IQtDAvdegSdbryg69p8J9R9FbqBa4PbShkG3mn5quAzdxBA4wbPmRqG-6HYaK6Hk2MgFmNc0UEU_vomm-2FcDRQ60CkbjryQrNiyP3LSbzif_NkjXrFX33PTNqTjuybbKmfMId_Lw/s640/arms.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-743564639435060782015-07-08T22:22:00.001+01:002015-07-08T23:04:52.721+01:00Great Glen Way Ultra: Running A Double<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Insanity is a relative term. Ultra runners often get called insane because people confuse it with dedication, hard work and sacrifice. Sometimes ideas are insane to us at one point in our lives and then become less insane later. Deciding to run the Great Glen Way twice was a bit like that; insane at first because there was nothing to prove I could do it. There was no special training, just excitement for an idea. In the lead up it became normal as it was just something I was going to be doing. I'll confess that after about 100 miles it started to feel a bit crazy again. It would be both the longest I had run for and the furthest I had run. I kept it pretty quiet; no point getting any congratulations until it was completed. The Great Glen Way has some stunning views so surely it would be a pleasure seeing them twice right?!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every wee adventure should be preceded by an event which tests your patience, mood and relationship. This is to build resilience and serve as a good story to tell at the pub later. Our adventure capability tester came in the form of a dodgy camper van. More accurately, a shell of a van with space to sleep in the back which would break down on the outskirts of Inverness on the Thursday night. This needed to happen in the lashing rain of course. The hire company gave us two options; travel back to Edinburgh to pick up a new van and then drive back up (not a great option considering it was already 7pm) or fend for ourselves. We decided to fend for ourselves, which actually meant sending out desperate messages to folk on Facebooklet so they could fend for us. We've become a lazy generation. I tore about in the pissing rain asking hotels for spare rooms. Enormous generosity meant that our camping gear was to be stored, Scott was to be transported for the weekend, we had a tent for the Saturday night and a ride back to Edinburgh on the Sunday. Thank you all so much (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Helen, John, Alexa and everyone else that offered). I </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">started the run on Friday morning knowing that everything was all sorted. Nothing quite like running 144 miles and getting to the finish without knowing where you will be sleeping.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXg1rfrGrq0aOQmaxsn63IvujpP7zNZNso0Bte6lLD_u84KCjIQAwT0G9r30I_t0Nw5R0x1sXXeFPltZ-hxFXdvv1xq5x3JzZMjcD9pH_XP6jMkHrsCXkvhE5-r9TU0OMeZWmgwVZBKRhq/s1600/ggw+inverness+cloud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXg1rfrGrq0aOQmaxsn63IvujpP7zNZNso0Bte6lLD_u84KCjIQAwT0G9r30I_t0Nw5R0x1sXXeFPltZ-hxFXdvv1xq5x3JzZMjcD9pH_XP6jMkHrsCXkvhE5-r9TU0OMeZWmgwVZBKRhq/s640/ggw+inverness+cloud.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Low clouds looking back to Inverness (photo: Scott)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
Inverness to Fort William </span></h2>
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
Friday 3 July - 6am</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My start time was just after 6am and the plan was to run for about 18 hours and arrive in Fort William at midnight, leaving enough time to have a Dundee shower and change my kit. Scott ran the first hour and a half with me up the trail. As we were staying in Inverness city centre, we'd already done a mile before we joined up with the Great Glen Way and the athletics stadium that would be the finish of tomorrow's race.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The views heading out of Inverness were stunning. It was to be a warm day. We took the climb up easy before Scott headed back to get to breakfast in time. Now alone, I was remembering parts of the trail from last year. The road section before the final checkpoint was much longer than I had remembered. Mental note saved about that for later. I dodged pot-holes and loggers. There is a sign saying that you are at the highest part of the trail about eleven miles from Inverness. At this point I do not actually believe it. Through a gate which tells me that I have run just over a half marathon and then along a wide rocky path with amazing views of Loch Ness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDy3LaDRgYzVwGL-wgoCvye9af02QioqiPCikv6qjtHDHPQVdTUSWpLxMFne3g0Dp1vGFdjpQuTTjI-7kVesmJX0VVNrSZ-IupvtqiBNWwF8QR37POpy0iPV5_yRpcM6w2l7DWdZoesW4g/s1600/ggw+inverness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDy3LaDRgYzVwGL-wgoCvye9af02QioqiPCikv6qjtHDHPQVdTUSWpLxMFne3g0Dp1vGFdjpQuTTjI-7kVesmJX0VVNrSZ-IupvtqiBNWwF8QR37POpy0iPV5_yRpcM6w2l7DWdZoesW4g/s640/ggw+inverness.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Walking out of Inverness</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihn0bLZqFpVcJE_-a6jFyCwkNbfaS5fjxRXWM9DIzfwh9Z28d73AzmbpqLe0LoTrSVmJqo0ivGrZ1DQBvcU4cP8bfzlESdar06CuV4Y9SaR6wrKLg_3YEExW6fgjxdNOscr4A_8JfrwHGM/s1600/ggw+inverness+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihn0bLZqFpVcJE_-a6jFyCwkNbfaS5fjxRXWM9DIzfwh9Z28d73AzmbpqLe0LoTrSVmJqo0ivGrZ1DQBvcU4cP8bfzlESdar06CuV4Y9SaR6wrKLg_3YEExW6fgjxdNOscr4A_8JfrwHGM/s640/ggw+inverness+back.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nathan Airess</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I come down into Drumnadrochit I got confused with times and started to get a little disheartened. I had been taking it easy for four hours and had covered 20 miles. For some reason I decided to multiply my time by five to get my predicted finish time in Fort William. This gave me 20 hours. I didn't have 20 hours; at most I had 19. I had just taken a stab that I would take 18 hours based on my race time of 12 hours 20 minutes last year. But I didn't really know. So I stomped past the Loch Ness visitor centre, angry at it's inaccurate five stars, drinking an Irn Bru and eating a snickers bar. Essentially, I was doing my best to pretend that this is what all the locals do at ten in the morning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now concerned about time, I put the foot down to head towards Invermoriston where Sean Maley was arriving at midday to run with me to Fort William. I hated coming down this bit last year. It seemed to take forever. The fork in the trail came where I had to decide whether I was taking the high route or the low route. The race organisers had not yet decided which route the race was going to take. I decided to take the high route. If you are going to commit to a challenge, best to make it the best challenge you can. It was a good decision; the day was beautiful, the views were stunning and it meant Sean had to start his run with a hike up a steep hill. As Sean is running La High Ultra in August he could do with the hill practice. And as this will be his only training run, there is no time like the present. If you think about, I was doing this for HIM.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW4e8EVuD_R_zO94dXLV7UfkzHibVfi2N12O5sNVzKvcP0IrGIfpKq8rSZ2juF-JS5GBxu__vi5ATLQCRL6lb3_Er4eMJgjdPd9oTVsiS_tli4IpoSs4plbcLY1AyzWxa-TYlb0tCzeYB5/s1600/ggw+loch+ness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW4e8EVuD_R_zO94dXLV7UfkzHibVfi2N12O5sNVzKvcP0IrGIfpKq8rSZ2juF-JS5GBxu__vi5ATLQCRL6lb3_Er4eMJgjdPd9oTVsiS_tli4IpoSs4plbcLY1AyzWxa-TYlb0tCzeYB5/s640/ggw+loch+ness.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe0-GJevLjiqxk6DIEvAl4lczN9172M6IuTKCo7ZdLRplHzEAEScXE4IiAMQM_Q0048rppIoUv0qGYGLY6-KB672jgspxFgMRroKUJvMt-majhlQWim68-tYzY6HiVcRhFtSxE26Jvu7w7/s1600/ggw+loch+ness+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe0-GJevLjiqxk6DIEvAl4lczN9172M6IuTKCo7ZdLRplHzEAEScXE4IiAMQM_Q0048rppIoUv0qGYGLY6-KB672jgspxFgMRroKUJvMt-majhlQWim68-tYzY6HiVcRhFtSxE26Jvu7w7/s640/ggw+loch+ness+view.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">View of Loch Ness</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By Invermoriston I had almost run out of liquids. Just before we jumped into the dodgy camper I received a box of Nathan kit to test. I was uber excited and went with the new VaporAiress to trial for my journey down. It was a brilliant decision and it fit like a glove. I decided not to take a bladder in it, preferring the convenience of the bottles on the front (two 330ml insulated bottles). I'd also had two cans of Irn Bru in the back pocket but as it was warm, I'd been drinking more than usual. So with more sugary drinks and water on board we had a short climb over to Fort Augustus, again opting to take the high route like true mountain goats.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Elderly Americans on coach tours love the Scottish Highlands. Most of them were in Fort Augustus with us, presumably to help celebrate our arrival. We snuck into the public toilets without paying like badasses. I'm so rebellious it scares me sometimes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The guess is that we are about halfway and I have been moving for nine hours. The next section is a very long flat run next to the canal which they had clearly recently resurfaced with shingle just to annoy us. Ohhh, it is so hard to keep plodding on the flat after being on your feet for so long already. What was once a charming canal with boats is now a dull piece of water with a shingled footpath leading us to ultimate depression. So some suffering began. It was always going to. Fortunately, Sean is no stranger to suffering having run the entire length of Britain in April. We trudged on at what would turn out to be a pace faster than we probably should have. I was desperately hoping that we had less than 30 miles to go now, Never mind the extra 72 miles that I would be doing tomorrow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eventually, eagle-eyed Sean spotted a foreign teenager drinking a can of fizz outside a canal boat. By this stage we were well parched and had to decide if we were robbing the teenager or taking the risk of entering the canal boat in search of goods. The risk-taker that I am followed Sean cautiously down the stairs of the boat. And what did we find? A pub! And what a local pub to have; wherever we were. The order was amusing; multiple cans of coke, Irn Bru, sprite, pints of orange juice, some water and some kit kats. Athletes through and through. My legs really seized and it was a struggle to get going again. There was some good news though; only 18 miles to go! Yuss.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8pOJHXi79m12ea9r5eNrMh6HydAFSSjAWQXyUfUSrtS03ER_ZrDMBJDcY2phwdd3UJ0rbiC55l2jGeLE5XVKs_-ofnc4ckfDsftKE6f_6LkNwPuj4ER8dx6r1bXprNLbbUpwCBTv1oAhyphenhyphen/s1600/ggw+pub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8pOJHXi79m12ea9r5eNrMh6HydAFSSjAWQXyUfUSrtS03ER_ZrDMBJDcY2phwdd3UJ0rbiC55l2jGeLE5XVKs_-ofnc4ckfDsftKE6f_6LkNwPuj4ER8dx6r1bXprNLbbUpwCBTv1oAhyphenhyphen/s640/ggw+pub.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Canal boat pub at Laggan Locks</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With six hours left before midnight we had a few choices as to how we would approach the last miles. We had the luxury of walking the last few miles if we wanted which would be good for the the legs but no so good if it cooled down as I only had my Compressport arm warmers to keep me warm if we walked. So we just dropped the pace a little and trundled along taking another sit down spot a few hours later only to be devoured by midgies. The last flat canal section into Fort William was much longer than I remember from last year but we kept positive by singing songs badly. Sean's not a bad singer actually but I am horrific, so much so that sometimes at school the music teacher has to ask the children to repeat song lines again as they were sounding so out of tune. But I was actually the problem, singing Puff the Magic Dragon lyrics a little too boldly. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There's some excitement. Sean has spotted Fort William but doesn't want to say anything because is not sure where the canal ends. I can hear cars and know that the race starts where the canal meets a road. We have done this. We jog in as the bus from Inverness approaches. You mean I could have taken a bus?! We arrived in about 15 hours 30 minutes. Ahead of schedule which means I can scavenge some people's dinner left-overs and take a nap in the Love Bus (all ready in my running kit to start again in a few hours). My legs twitch constantly and my body can't decide if it wants to sweat or shiver. It does not matter how easy you take 72 miles; it is still a long way and a toll on your body. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thank you so much to Sean for driving three hours, running over 40 miles and then driving another three hours to wake your pal up at an unreasonable hour to drink beer (and check out some boats).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPVAk1s4RE1oKRUNV-5h4FVte_1BKiC2hDFsNjvcXJAH2AvXLWX4cwQL6LMAN6NvJ_JtXW4-Xr-pUkMu89vYJk1FRaz5wy1wT8OoEgVjyLm2l3OUlFCoMNhB_nkuBtTSnxEVQYiQPrjYH/s1600/ggw+fw+finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPVAk1s4RE1oKRUNV-5h4FVte_1BKiC2hDFsNjvcXJAH2AvXLWX4cwQL6LMAN6NvJ_JtXW4-Xr-pUkMu89vYJk1FRaz5wy1wT8OoEgVjyLm2l3OUlFCoMNhB_nkuBtTSnxEVQYiQPrjYH/s640/ggw+fw+finish.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Arriving in Fort William</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h2>
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
Fort William to Inverness </span></h2>
<h3>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
Saturday 4 July - 1am</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Race day. I'm starving so rummage through Terry's running sweets bag and steal chocolate bars and jelly beans. I try to pop a blister but it's barely there anyway. The legs are actually moving ok and I sneak to the back of the start line. The hooter goes and I can jog! Bill Heirs asks where I am as last year I was still in the bushes when the race started! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-XkfhnZeBt923ZhIuwmD4D1P57mp8XhlPlQ8MLWFrwB9Up1uGGC8LMG2ATdRCC0D8b5J0i7MN3FmsuF0dNPYk6TmX329PCpMHBZrMm4GX9kszsKV9X_hyphenhyphen9xENQ38EOZP1CmOXmJnrkwj/s1600/ggw+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-XkfhnZeBt923ZhIuwmD4D1P57mp8XhlPlQ8MLWFrwB9Up1uGGC8LMG2ATdRCC0D8b5J0i7MN3FmsuF0dNPYk6TmX329PCpMHBZrMm4GX9kszsKV9X_hyphenhyphen9xENQ38EOZP1CmOXmJnrkwj/s640/ggw+start.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jogging at the start! (photo: Fiona Rennie)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKOtjHP2yxsnw6RzM9stkMjhIH15QJwr5Q8XWNZYk8ra5VFs4ZtZv7X0qCKSSl6HGY5dAV_CVVDxTh2IZWjstHfQnNrrGmgLCr7MUETbT7G0lRIUv31g_fge6A610V35wFU_QpnQ6wfo1/s1600/ggw+start+light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKOtjHP2yxsnw6RzM9stkMjhIH15QJwr5Q8XWNZYk8ra5VFs4ZtZv7X0qCKSSl6HGY5dAV_CVVDxTh2IZWjstHfQnNrrGmgLCr7MUETbT7G0lRIUv31g_fge6A610V35wFU_QpnQ6wfo1/s640/ggw+start+light.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">72 miles down, 72 more to go</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wow, I can really jog here. It feels incredible. Everyone else clearly feels incredible too though as they have shot off. Lights from runner's head lamps can't even be seen ahead of me now. Seriously? I know I've got 72 miles in my legs already but I feel like I've got a brilliant pace going. How fast are they all sprinting? There are about three runners behind me with the sweepers but there is quite a gap. Before I started this adventure I thought the first day would be the hard bit and the second day would be easier because there would be so many people to help pull me along. I was very wrong. I am running very alone. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My solid plod continues and things feel pretty good coming into the first checkpoint at about ten miles. That was quite a bit of plodding to do. The midgies are fierce; just as hungry for my banana as I am. Someone comments that I am consuming my custard in a way that suggests I might be a bit hungry. Huge understatement. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next part is mostly undulating and the light is really nice as the sun starts to rise. I splashed out on a new headtorch after struggling for years and it really is brilliant. Our lights are not on for long though as we are treated to the sunrise. I share this romantic moment with bright yellow t-shirt man. Awwww. A sprinkle of rain begins and I hope to get to the second checkpoint before having to stop and put my rain jacket on. A gaggle of us arrive together and climb up towards Invergarry. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I start to struggle a bit and the miles until the start of the canal leading to Fort Augustus are a bit of a blur. I remember really enjoying this last year but this year I was just holding on until I had a breakdown. When I reach Fort Augustus I will have covered over 100 miles. Surely that'll help add some spring to my step? I love walking up hills but on the Friday I had deliberately taken them easy to save my quads. Today, nothing is particularly hurting but I don't have much extra strength to push up the hills. It's lashing with rain. The weather reports that I had been checking had only said there were going to be showers. I better braid my ponytail. I got this straightened on Thursday. What a waste. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I get to the start of the canal I know that I am going to need to plod the whole way to prevent it from being a slow death march. Oh, and it is long. Every corner I hope is the last. I see one other runner, Jan, and a dog walker who I take forever to catch. I'll wait until Invermoriston before I have a breakdown. If I can get through to the halfway point (or three quarters, depending the way you look at things) then the aftermath of the meltdown won't be as bad. Eventually I see the boats and make the left turn to the checkpoint. The wee rebellious tiger in me uses the public toilets without paying again. I've got capri tights in my bag which I thought I might need as I ran into the second evening but decide to put them on now. My body wasn't really sure whether it was hot from being in the rain jacket or cold from being wet. I felt my legs. They felt cold. The decision was tights. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB_hn-6SxWyMGaBbM23200Er3ZJVIePjkBdpOjLE0p-DGsPqzShcQxT8AEHgjah3J9ZjusYZDFf0vFVyWsaer9Ick1HRFuUsI-ngWm8h1oWwHx4UwvluZvc9lvrQXZMhcx3D5JwQUoryBu/s1600/ggw+fort+augustus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB_hn-6SxWyMGaBbM23200Er3ZJVIePjkBdpOjLE0p-DGsPqzShcQxT8AEHgjah3J9ZjusYZDFf0vFVyWsaer9Ick1HRFuUsI-ngWm8h1oWwHx4UwvluZvc9lvrQXZMhcx3D5JwQUoryBu/s640/ggw+fort+augustus.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Faking it 'til I make it in Fort Augustus</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I arrived into the checkpoint I was taken in by the Love Bus. I decided to have my breakdown here. It was raining like a pissing cow outside so I took my time with a Red Bull and coffee combination. I'd packed a fruit pot for this stop. A fruit pot? It's bloody freezing outside; why would I want a fruit pot? But of course, the weather report had told me it was still going to be warm so I'd packed summer foods. Yesterday was a scorcher but how silly of me to expect two warm days in a row in a Scottish summer. We are tougher than that. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I arrived at the checkpoint there were about ten drop bags still there but by now another handful of runners have come in and some runners had been pulled out of the race, I suddenly panicked; the sweeper was probably here. I didn't mind being last at all but I did not want to be timed out and I did not want to keep the sweeper out for hours longer than they needed to. Other than this break, I was moving forward and only walking the inclines. It is quite remarkable how fast some people can run. Today I am proof that it is also remarkable how slow one can run as well. I tear out of the checkpoint. OK, so it was probably less 'tearing' and more 'jogging with intent' but I was giving it a good go nonetheless. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next section over to Invermoriston is only about seven miles or something. My hill walking improved and I relaxed a little going down the hills. The break had worked, I felt strong again. On the way down I had taken the high route so I didn't remember this low route section from the previous year. Once my adventure finished, I was looking over comments about the race on social networks. Someone asked how I was doing and got the response that I was struggling at Invermoriston. They clearly didn't see the state of me at all the other checkpoints because I probably looked my best at Invermoriston! Scott is marshaling here and helps with my stuff while Helen Munro sprays my face with Smidge. I can't really talk properly so I just sort of push Scott's hands to do the things I want. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then comes the climb out of Invermoriston, the first climb of the course according to the race profile. It is here I meet my first angel; Louise Jones. I am not going as fast as her but she spends the next 13 miles hanging back with me; helping me trudge slowly up the hills and shuffle when I can. It takes forever. I wish we were doing the high route; at least then there are no false summits. At one point we find ourselves edging around trucks and diggers. I am a bit annoyed that I have to keep running around them. Then there are some uncomfortable slippery slates to run across. I am getting very cranky and barely holding in the tears... and then... a deadend. Louise and I are devastated. It may only be half a mile that we've gone off-track but emotionally even a metre off and it would be too much for me. It's a cry or run situation. We run. I use the term 'running' very loosely. But we were attempting to move faster than a walk. We re-pass a group of walkers that we passed at the start of this section. Seriously?!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We finally make it to the top and start the long decent. It is much longer than I remember (and I only just ran this part yesterday). I'm pleased Louise doesn't turn around too often because I've screwed my face up like a crying baby. I am a little worried that my right foot may have caught the ever-contagious plantar fasciitis from my left food. And then I think that maybe I can feel that pelvis pain that has hounded me this year but I so thought was cured... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The water stop finally appears accompanied by my howling. I burst into tears. I don't think Norry was expecting to get an irrational blubbering woman when he signed up for this support station. Eventually Louise coaxes me to continue and after a chunk of walking up a gradual incline we start a plod. Louise is doing a jog followed by a walk because she is much faster. I tell her to keep going, promising her I will keep plodding until the checkpoint. And I kept that promise, somehow dragging myself into Drumnadrochit. Then I stumbled into a chair and had a rest. I had been hanging on for a long time. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQRqHuB0pbN1XNoGD1wW7Fy0uaIj5NpKg9ZpOLdf4_ZQ6kTSBv-5pm9Nxuatz_kFlo9FwVRfd66N8wE4gyNpEcTp_W8kFhTXccXNyTziS6w_7UuDmIO5PCR7yGnG6KsrwY_Mf0f_0LKDs/s1600/ggw+cp5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQRqHuB0pbN1XNoGD1wW7Fy0uaIj5NpKg9ZpOLdf4_ZQ6kTSBv-5pm9Nxuatz_kFlo9FwVRfd66N8wE4gyNpEcTp_W8kFhTXccXNyTziS6w_7UuDmIO5PCR7yGnG6KsrwY_Mf0f_0LKDs/s640/ggw+cp5.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Taking it easy in Drumnadrochit (CP5) </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was pretty cold. There had been much more rain that I had expected and it was windy at the hill tops too. Some of us didn't get to read Friday's updated forecasts; we were too busy running to the start line. So I have to confess that I was a bit unprepared. It didn't help that without the camper, I didn't have a lot of time to think about what kit I wanted to have taken down to Fort William. Everyone pitched in at the checkpoint, making me coffee, getting me extra layers etc. I wasn't in a hurry to leave and told Louise to push on. I just needed a wee break. I sat next to Ivan for a bit who had flown past me down the hills. He said something about running myself into the ground. I knew I was going to finish, it was just whether I had any more running left in me. Last year I ran 12 hours and 20 minutes which meant that this time last year I would have been finished. Somewhat depressing. I left the checkpoint in Norry's hoody, my rain jacket, Mike's woolen hat and a foil blanket stuffed down my t-shirt. I looked a riot. That's 125 miles done, another mile and it will be the furthest I've ever run. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Armed with the knowledge that we could walk the last 19 miles to the finish, Helen Buxton and I set out through Drumnadrochit and climbed the 'second' hill of the day. We were reacquainted with bright yellow t-shirt man who had been carrying an injury since early in the race. It's certainly not a race walking pace but there is a freedom in knowing that we can feel guilt-free as at least we are going up a hill. Slowly, layers come off and I end up with my foil blanket stuffed on the outside of my pack and my rain jacket tied around my waist. I am baffled as to why I spent so long colour coordinating my outfits. The rain totally ruined everything. I've got my sunhat flapping about too. Haven't needed that today. When we come to the gate with a half marathon to go, I tell them that the climbing should be over now. It wasn't intentional but it turns out I told a lie. Once the downhill did finally come we all did our best to plod down to the final checkpoint. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXjeyBVGa2NstsykxVi86GgBEvzRfpu1EAw9HoTntKxmFKWZJw8U28xwUz6l-YtK2fI0F6Lp1MMlCYisZaQpojHw9-3lXn9g36Tg453raZnmTwptIT3aEDPOyIbL_RthISjHfItGHTQaj/s1600/ggw+cp6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXjeyBVGa2NstsykxVi86GgBEvzRfpu1EAw9HoTntKxmFKWZJw8U28xwUz6l-YtK2fI0F6Lp1MMlCYisZaQpojHw9-3lXn9g36Tg453raZnmTwptIT3aEDPOyIbL_RthISjHfItGHTQaj/s640/ggw+cp6.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking good 133 miles in</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4iY6YRJ9BA6kb90MwYrEPpc7wJdFACSM47ZjSjk3yqJZD9gmyb10wtknsOBqAryAws2DtSj_XKY2AiuF4k5xOF5dB3f12SirvbWZlWpP66Q5XLXhSZXGVU2PqjzqF4Qi7NzLy3Q3crFZQ/s1600/ggw+cp6+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4iY6YRJ9BA6kb90MwYrEPpc7wJdFACSM47ZjSjk3yqJZD9gmyb10wtknsOBqAryAws2DtSj_XKY2AiuF4k5xOF5dB3f12SirvbWZlWpP66Q5XLXhSZXGVU2PqjzqF4Qi7NzLy3Q3crFZQ/s640/ggw+cp6+back.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Having trouble dodging the pot holes</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'd packed a beer for this checkpoint but decided that I didn't have enough of my brain left functioning to drink it. By the time I got there the rain had stopped and I was warm so left the foil blanket, hoody and woolen hat behind. It was better to be safe than sorry on the hill though. By this stage my body couldn't regulate my temperature. Nor could it control my bladder which thought I needed to pee every half hour despite barely drinking anything. I'm hesitant to leave my sunhat behind; I want it to cover my shattered face and wild hair in the finishing photo.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But off I went, Inverness-bound. My relief at the annoying overgrown plants was short-lived when I ran into two monster black pigs. I'd been doing a little bit of hallucinating but these were definitely there. The big one was on the trail and snorted at me. I was a bit pissed off; how dare you stand in my bloody way? Don't you know how far I have run? I will not have 'killed by pig at the end of a grand adventure' written on my headstone thank you. But I wouldn't put any money on myself at being able to climb any of these trees if I needed to either. So I inched past, opened the gate slowly (the smaller one was on that side) and started walking along the road. Once I was out of sight, I got an epic plodding pace back on and caught up to Helen. We were both alive (she was actually a bit braver and stopped to take a picture).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The last ten miles are brilliant fun if you have the legs to run. If you don't, they are cruel. I would rather have a hill to walk up as I would feel less guilty about the walking part. There wasn't much running done on the road. With about six miles to go, I had a meltdown. It wasn't any pain in particular, I just needed off my feet. I knew I was going to finish but I really couldn't do it right now. My feet were burning as they were swelling and Mr Plantar Fasciitis was understandably getting a little sick of being poked at with stones. I sat on a rock until Helen talked me into continuing on. When I stood up I had pins and needles. They didn't hurt, just felt unusual. And there was some cut on my leg oozing. My body was officially broken. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For a little bit I shuffled as I counted 800 steps while Helen walked at the same pace. I think walking hurt more than whatever it was that I was currently doing. Then I gave that shuffle up and walked slowly. The forest took forever. How dare it! Another lady came up behind us (I had been running near her most of the race) and Helen and her started jogging. Helen had been worried to leave me in case I collapsed once she was gone. I couldn't assure her that I wouldn't collapse, just that there would be runners behind me to help if I did. I leaned on a gate crying as some walkers came towards me. I must have looked a right sight. They ask where I've run from. When I tell them their only response is that I am close to Inverness. I know I am close! BUT IT IS STILL TOO FAR. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally the downhill began and so did my shuffling. Down through the woods, through some houses, along some grass... right turn onto the water any minute now... But no. There was a whole chunk of other stuff before the water that I didn't remember. Must keep moving legs. You are jogging. Jogging is so good. I caught the other lady again. I didn't want to pass her but I had to keep running otherwise I probably would have just collapsed. Up ahead I could now see Helen walking. I yelled at her to go and go she did, only to have to wait for some cars before she could cross the road. I was too hot in my rain jacket again but couldn't risk doing anything that might stop my current shuffle. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During the last two days I had been emotional on several occasions. Sometimes it was because I was so overwhelmed and exhausted and other times because I was picturing myself finishing. I thought that I would finish crying but with so many happy people cheering, it just didn't seem fitting. So I gave it my best effort all the way down the finishing straight. Within moments of stepping over the line, I had arms all over me holding me up. I'd been holding on all day and now the dizziness and exhaustion took over, I had a sleep in the medical room while they checked me over. I passed all the tests; just had general exhaustion, dehydration and supreme hunger. Missing Friday's lunch and dinner and Saturday's breakfast and lunch meant I was running on empty all of Saturday. Helen and John Munro had very kindly brought a tent for us but the medical staff and Scott thought that maybe he should try get us a hotel room! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA1_F4R9drhSc60AYUkDhTbme3Ac6nQENQ6z0UpLJeXE64W20uTcWCqcXfwrmOlHWRqLJYE392ODuyg8R_mRkuNJh2V1-0ThI6KRb_Q5sUhhSk9vfO3sRfXZqNdCbDCiQu7S0zw_k5Zffr/s1600/ggw+finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA1_F4R9drhSc60AYUkDhTbme3Ac6nQENQ6z0UpLJeXE64W20uTcWCqcXfwrmOlHWRqLJYE392ODuyg8R_mRkuNJh2V1-0ThI6KRb_Q5sUhhSk9vfO3sRfXZqNdCbDCiQu7S0zw_k5Zffr/s640/ggw+finish.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Double fist pump for the finish (photo: Fiona Rennie)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It wasn't until Sunday night that I started to feel a bit proud. When I finished I just felt like I'd run a really slow Great Glen Way and had let myself down by walking so much. I had finished the Saturday in about 18 hours 30 minutes bringing my total running time to 34 hours. Faster than my aim of 36 hours. Currently, I can't decide if the adventure has given me more confidence that I can cover 150 miles or less confidence (because it was just so darn hard). The jury is out. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Leg recovery is going much better than I thought but the brain is a bit foggy. I missed my train stop on my way to work on Monday! Blister count: 0. Plantar fasciitis count: just the one foot still. Win. A huge thank you to BAM who let me partake in my crazy adventure and to everyone who gave me so much support over the weekend. </span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-2970703549430094402015-06-24T22:35:00.000+01:002015-06-24T22:35:16.596+01:00Kaunas Marathon: A Lithuanian Win<div abp="733">
</div>
<h3 abp="742" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span abp="743" lang="EN-US"><span abp="744" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Late 2014</span></span></h3>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="746" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="747">
<span abp="748" lang="EN-US"><span abp="749" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Scott and our friend Ally have been running
in the Pentlands. I have been at work. Now they are at the pub. I get a call
from Scott saying that they are having another pint and is currently being
talked into running a marathon in Cowness next June with Ally and Norm.
Cowness? I've seen quite a bit of Scotland but haven't heard of it. Turns out
it's Kaunas; a city in Lithuania. Cheap hotels, cheap beer and sunshine. I text
asking if I can come. They don't really want a girl crashing their lad's weekend
but I make a persuasive argument (mostly about my awesomeness) and am accepted.
</span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="751" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="752">
<span abp="753" lang="EN-US"><span abp="754" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Since returning, I look at people smugly
when they ask where Kaunas is. Err, Lithuania. No, not the capital. That's
Vilnius. Yes, I went there too. Yeah, I've always been really into geography. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="755" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="756">
<span abp="757" lang="EN-US"><span abp="758" style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<h3 abp="760" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span abp="761" lang="EN-US"><span abp="762" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">June 2015</span></span></span></h3>
<h3 abp="763" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span abp="764" lang="EN-US"><span abp="765" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span></span> </span></h3>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="767" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="768">
<span abp="769" lang="EN-US"><span abp="770" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Scotland's representatives at the Kaunas
marathon are announced;</span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="772" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="773">
<span abp="774" lang="EN-US"><span abp="775" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">- Ally Always Abroad Macleod </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="777" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="778">
<span abp="779" lang="EN-US"><span abp="780" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">- Norman Never Fit But Always With An
Excuse Duncan</span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="782" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="783">
<span abp="784" lang="EN-US"><span abp="785" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">- Tony First Timer Bonnar</span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="787" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="788">
<span abp="789" lang="EN-US"><span abp="790" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">- Scott A Gorgeous Wife Wesley </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="792" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="793">
<span abp="794" lang="EN-US"><span abp="795" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">- Me The Magnificent</span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="797" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="798">
<span abp="799" lang="EN-US"><span abp="800" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">It's a strong beer drinking team. I will
definitely be the weakest. Although with four weeks training under my belt I am
definitely the most prepared. Ally has been running different marathons in
different countries every second week because he is probably having a mid-life
crisis (and has an extremely understanding wife). Norm has given up on running
completely due to... Tony is a first timer
and has trained the distance. Scott never really got going after The Fling. If
any of them beat me at the running part I will be devastated.</span></span></div>
<div abp="798">
<span abp="949" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div abp="1204" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><table abp="1317" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1318">
<tr abp="1319"><td abp="1320" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1321" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpktSnPeQAbVzBtRtmeWjzCJ2WUPHUU_1FS1ws_J8zUdr-cLLFAeMKwA8GljHeqTf8r7ML3P384UgRldANytaphm-U3tSvsdp7G-NUsxZ5C_yDtSE-f755k8gXjEKBHpNc37jB8_r6w6Rx/s1600/registration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img abp="1322" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpktSnPeQAbVzBtRtmeWjzCJ2WUPHUU_1FS1ws_J8zUdr-cLLFAeMKwA8GljHeqTf8r7ML3P384UgRldANytaphm-U3tSvsdp7G-NUsxZ5C_yDtSE-f755k8gXjEKBHpNc37jB8_r6w6Rx/s640/registration.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="1323"><td abp="1324" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="1325" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sussing out the competition at registration</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><div abp="1207">
<span abp="804" lang="EN-US"><o:p abp="805"><span abp="806" style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></o:p></span> </div>
</div>
<h3 abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></h3>
<h3 abp="808" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span abp="809" lang="EN-US"><span abp="810" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Race Day</span></span></span></h3>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="812" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="813">
<span abp="814" lang="EN-US"><o:p abp="815"><span abp="816" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="818" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="819">
<span abp="820" lang="EN-US"><span abp="821" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Sleep was short. We had a late night
skyping my younger sister to receive news of her engagement and then I spent
the rest of the wee hours planning her wedding in my head.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="823" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="824">
<span abp="825" lang="EN-US"><span abp="826" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">It's
a leisurely stroll to the start from the hotel. We see few runners enroute but
spot a local jakey pinching a bicycle. We choose not to participate in a
ridiculous looking warm up exercise and get the shite scared out of us when
some army dudes start firing their guns. Although the half marathon starts at
the same time, it is still not a massive field so I move towards the front. I
can see a piece of tape further up and debate whether I should go in the front
pen. I'm not that fast in marathons but know I will still be several rows back
so take the plunge. Lithuanians sing their national anthem proubly and then we
scoot off on the cobblestones. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="828" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="829">
<span abp="830" lang="EN-US"><span abp="831" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I really should have started even further
up. I spend the first 5km jumping on and off kerbs passing people who have very
quickly realised that they are more Bolt than they are Gabreselasi. I feel
awful. Right from the beginning I just can't create any pace. I keep passing
people constantly but the photos taken early on show my distress. I miss the
very first water station as the helpers can't pour the water into the cups
quick enough for all the runners. It is warmer than expected so most runners
are taking cups. A runner from behind me notices there was no water for me so
chases me to give me his. Very kind. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="833" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="834">
<span abp="835" lang="EN-US"><span abp="836" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The course is quiet, running alongside a
big road which is not busy with traffic. We then run alongside a large river
for a long time. Lithuania is very green and the course has many pretty parts.
There are also cobbles and some pavement slabs that my plantar fasciitis hates.
I am still winding through the runners a touch before 10km when I see an
official on a bicycle ahead. She keeps looking back at me and then two other
girls start looking back at me too. When I pass them, the official bicycle girl
comes with me.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="838" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><table abp="1346" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1347">
<tr abp="1348"><td abp="1349" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1350" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVkoeKhWvaT6j8U7n94PnI7tClKYHd5ZLPf7GdeimZ3Yh8voOn9ObvcgVfJFo_tHbr4NRhEIm_bwb0uXv0S9ksT_ifpoxvjZKQRRDOlARels4wKz2gQZe3c-8UnStTvxyShPO_ly7omut/s1600/river.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img abp="1351" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVkoeKhWvaT6j8U7n94PnI7tClKYHd5ZLPf7GdeimZ3Yh8voOn9ObvcgVfJFo_tHbr4NRhEIm_bwb0uXv0S9ksT_ifpoxvjZKQRRDOlARels4wKz2gQZe3c-8UnStTvxyShPO_ly7omut/s640/river.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="1352"><td abp="1353" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="1354" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Soul destroying</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><div abp="839">
<span abp="840" lang="EN-US"><span abp="841" style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div abp="839">
<span abp="840" lang="EN-US"><span abp="841" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I don't panic. It is a small marathon so I
may have just run myself into third place. It's a bit early for that but I am
finally feeling settled so jog on. At about 17km there is a hairpin meaning
that you can see runners coming in the opposite direction. The road leading to
the hairpin is a few km's long. I clap when the half marathon and then marathon
winners come towards me. I also notice something a little disturbing. There is
one bicycle per gender per race type. It says Leaders (or something very similar
in Lithuanian that I very cleverly translated). This means I am leading the
women's marathon. Not good news. If I am going to win something, I want to come
from behind, not spend the whole race being chased down. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="843" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="844">
<span abp="845" lang="EN-US"><span abp="846" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">When I turn at the hairpin, I start
scanning for the boys. I see the second lady and estimate that she is about
three minutes behind me. She looks good. I eat some HoneyStinger chews and
ponder my fate. Next I see Scott. He looks fine and I ask how he's feeling.
Unfortunately, the heat is getting to him. It's becoming El scorchio and he's on the boardwalk of broken dreams. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="848" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="849">
<span abp="850" lang="EN-US"><span abp="851" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">At 20km we turn off the straight to come
back into the town square where the half marathon runners will finish and the
marathon runners will do a second lap. There are loads of cheers as I come
through the start / finish straight. I am not sure if it is because the crowd
think I am finishing (our race numbers are similar to the half marathon) or
because I have a bicycle with me. As I emerge through the arch I hear 'Johnson'
over the announcement. My Lithuanian is a little patchy so I don't make out the
rest. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="853" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="854">
<span abp="855" lang="EN-US"><span abp="856" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">With the half marathon runners gone, there
really is no one left on the course. I do have two bicycle girls with me
though. They must be together to keep each other company. Or maybe they just
thought I looked a little unruly and that they needed two bicycle girls to
handle me. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="858" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="859">
<span abp="860" lang="EN-US"><span abp="861" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The cobblestones are worse without the
distraction of other runners. Stretched out on the road ahead I can see two
runners. Green man is in the distance running a similar pace to me. I wind in
the other runner, pushing the next few kilometres hard. I came through the half
way mark on about 3:13 pace. I am disappointed so am going to push it a little.
By 25km the push is over. I don't check my watch until the finish. I just grind
out the miles. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="864" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="865">
<span abp="866" lang="EN-US"><span abp="867" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I start catching a runner who then stops in
a shower up ahead. He better move out of the way before I get to the shower; it
is hot and I want to go under. Thankfully he does and gives me a hand shake and
'bravo' as I pass. Then, rather annoyingly, he spends the next few kilometres
running right up my backside. Pal, I was gaining on you before you stopped.
It's so frustrating and I do not even know why. He had just been kind to me. I
am just in a foul mood. Eventually I burn him off. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="869" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="870">
<span abp="871" lang="EN-US"><span abp="872" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Green man is still picking off the runners
ahead and I am following suit. The race t-shirts are yellow and most people
have chosen to wear them today. It is easy to spot my prey up ahead and make
myself silly goals like 'I will catch him in the next 3km.' It doesn't matter
whether I do or not but I am very lonely and bored. When I pass the occasional
runner I get a clap and cheer because they see the bicycles and have a chat
with them. The second lady hasn't come past yet but I am expecting her. </span></span></div>
<div abp="870">
<span abp="1449" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<table abp="1489" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1490">
<tr abp="1491"><td abp="1492" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1493" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXvXIRQ81VOTfNmObRs0iDYgRqMNxdUEhwllxczNoNmx5g0YECuF_3jGYfF6vKvSxcxKn_zSbqNLOKet5xZ9HwssucFFsGenYz41VVwQTZqttQatZaOxPQDeE80uIQzLF0Mn7wlRHYrCW/s1600/second+half.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img abp="1494" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXvXIRQ81VOTfNmObRs0iDYgRqMNxdUEhwllxczNoNmx5g0YECuF_3jGYfF6vKvSxcxKn_zSbqNLOKet5xZ9HwssucFFsGenYz41VVwQTZqttQatZaOxPQDeE80uIQzLF0Mn7wlRHYrCW/s640/second+half.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="1495"><td abp="1496" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="1497" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Make it stop</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="870">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
</div>
<div abp="874" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="875">
<span abp="876" lang="EN-US"><span abp="877" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">There is a shirtless man who cycles past
and then comes back, only to do the same thing again. I wonder if it is a
repeat of Gran Canaria and he is a friend of the second lady. Turns out he just
wanted to flirt with the good looking bicycle ladies. Sadly, up ahead I see
that green man has started to walk. I tell him that he was doing do well and
coax him on. He has no idea what I am saying and looks at me like I am a crazy
woman. At least I am a crazy lady currently winning. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="879" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="880">
<span abp="881" lang="EN-US"><span abp="882" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">With 10km to go I decide not to put in a
burst. Mostly because I can't be bothered. And also because the boardwalk of broken dreams is ripping mine to shred. I will try at 5km to go. Earlier on
I saw a thermometre measuring 32 degrees. Jeezo. I now have the luxury of
grabbing two cups of water at water stations and throw one on myself and
gracefully drink from the other. I know the boys will not be handling the heat.
Army people and the general public are handing out extra cups of water. At one
water station there is music and I hear my name again. The few supporters out
are giving me a good cheer. There are not many runners so we must be a novelty.
</span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="884" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="885">
<span abp="886" lang="EN-US"><span abp="887" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I hear a holler from the path above me as I
run by the river. It's Norm, shaking his pom poms and cheering. He is still on
his first lap. I wonder if he's last. He looks suspiciously fresh... Like he
has not been running. I wonder if he will get timed out before the second lap.
The shame. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="889" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="890">
<span abp="891" lang="EN-US"><span abp="892" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I am relieved to hit the road; not just
because it signalled less than 5km to go but also because the smooth service
didn't hurt my foot so much. If I could get to the hairpin and then to the 39km
marker before seeing the second lady coming towards me then I think I can hold
it for the win. The people coming towards me are you see by the heat. People
who are going to walk it in for a sub 3:30 as they have nothing left.
Straggling. I give a little cheer to my bicycle ladies as we reach 40km. A
runner in front knows I am catching him. Just as I do, he stops and clutches
his knee. Rather amusing. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="894" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="895">
<span abp="896" lang="EN-US"><span abp="897" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Finally we are off the long straight and
back into the town. I do my best at a decent finish on the last straight but
there are cobbles so it wasn't that glamorous. I was pretty excited to see that
I was going to get to break the finishing tape although my visor flew off so
there was a wee panic to get my arms up for the finishing photo. I should say
photos; there were cameras everywhere. A friend translated the announcer's
comments as I crossed the finish line. Apparently my legs looked fresh for the
distance, although a little tense (that would have been when I grabbed my legs
and puffed my cheeks out to the camera). I was also a surprise winner because I
was foreign! Johnson is a crazy name to them. </span></span></div>
<div abp="895">
<span abp="1355" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<table abp="1378" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1379">
<tr abp="1380"><td abp="1381" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1382" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66zgBwg7xyRcTbv8Fd2zoM5Kgbs15v0zgCLkCAigc1xFO0hR28JAefrYRjGySBnjFxbseiYNK2AouRoW8PshByPGkJ5C6eDNmcechsUJBhcOCPKgXfN0qFjH35XY3orvhzrBkZJWAFFTd/s1600/finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img abp="1383" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66zgBwg7xyRcTbv8Fd2zoM5Kgbs15v0zgCLkCAigc1xFO0hR28JAefrYRjGySBnjFxbseiYNK2AouRoW8PshByPGkJ5C6eDNmcechsUJBhcOCPKgXfN0qFjH35XY3orvhzrBkZJWAFFTd/s640/finish.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="1384"><td abp="1385" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="1386" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yep; that's your Kaunas marathon winner</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="895">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="899" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div abp="900">
<span abp="901" lang="EN-US"><span abp="902" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I apologise to my bicycle ladies for my
lack of fluency with the Lithuanian language and thank them for their presence.
My hair is a riot (because of the water throwing) so I fix that and then wait
to cheer in the boys. There is a guy across the straight taking my photo. I am
a Lithuanian celebrity. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="905" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="906">
<span abp="907" lang="EN-US"><span abp="908" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Scott comes in just after the four hour mark;
disappointed and defeated. Only one balloon man came in at his specified time;
the rest couldn’t keep their pace in the heat. Then it is the prizegiving
ceremony where they are kind and throw in a few English words for my benefit.
My jaw opens a little too wide when I see winners being presented with giant
comedy cheques and massive trophies. I win three hundred euros, some vitamins,
body butter and a trophy that I will need to use as a weapon to get past
RyanAir. I’d recommend running the half marathon as they are sponsored by beer.
</span></span></div>
<div abp="906">
<span abp="1387" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<table abp="1409" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1410">
<tr abp="1411"><td abp="1412" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1413" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Seb_GnbxTIsTYJjE81Tb_AAaCqLK4HkSsS2KpXBA5x4UcgWvJGrPH-CnzU0KYoIf96ftglLHwr_lxDST4n8rk81tQlsoaynG5BFKB7XR1Sp6lXxZUa51odQu9hiYjiayWoI2w9fOnNqn/s1600/trophy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img abp="1414" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Seb_GnbxTIsTYJjE81Tb_AAaCqLK4HkSsS2KpXBA5x4UcgWvJGrPH-CnzU0KYoIf96ftglLHwr_lxDST4n8rk81tQlsoaynG5BFKB7XR1Sp6lXxZUa51odQu9hiYjiayWoI2w9fOnNqn/s640/trophy.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="1415"><td abp="1416" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="1417" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Professional Baltic marathon runner</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="906">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
</div>
<div abp="910" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="911">
<span abp="912" lang="EN-US"><br abp="913" /><span abp="914" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">
We wait for the rest of the boys for a while but then the pre-race Immodium starts to wear
off so we head back to the hotel, going against the traffic of a one mile race.
Occasionally people sitting outside the cafes and bars give me a cheer when
they see my trophy.<span abp="915" style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel a bit
embarrassed; no personal best and not what I wanted to achieve. ‘Wanted to
achieve’? That makes me sound like a runner taking things too seriously! The
one positive is that I have beaten Norm and Ally’s 3:16 times (from their much
younger days obviously). </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="917" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="918">
<span abp="919" lang="EN-US"><o:p abp="920"><span abp="921" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="922" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="923">
<span abp="924" lang="EN-US"><span abp="925" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Ally ran with Tony as it was his first marathon and
they came in a bit over five hours. I was relieved during the race that they
ran together as it was a bit of a cruel marathon with the heat and lack of
supporters for Tony’s first one. Norm came in as second slowest plodder in the
entire field. </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="733">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div abp="928" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="929">
<span abp="930" style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span abp="931" lang="EN-US">Kaunas and Vilnius are really nice places. When you
visit, just tell them that you know me and you’ll be treated like royalty. On
our final evening while we were sitting outside in a café, some girls asked a
guy near us for his picture. Turns out he is a Lithuanian basketball player who
plays in the NBA.</span><span abp="932" lang="EN-US"><span abp="933"> I lifted my
giant trophy up and sat it on the table. I’ll show him what a winner looks
like. There was actually a youth NBA talent camp staying at the hotel and I
could tell that they were looking to poach me. So if you don’t see me running
on the trails for a while, I’ve gone to establish myself in the US as a
basketball extraordinaire. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div abp="929">
<span abp="930" style="font-family: Calibri;"><span abp="932" lang="EN-US"><span abp="933" style="font-size: large;"></span></span></span> </div>
<table abp="1453" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1454">
<tr abp="1455"><td abp="1456" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1457" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2GIvv4m0aad273tEzgiMFXQ7NV2WkpVvZYPIDmt74qJyD2j3OL3wWjMe-sbjgpMugh7fZtryK5rEuPluERTiEydjy4LgzqVwtmE_OzTSHUPuiGqVuJVuvjICQ0W9jdfYqHnWlddk8sAz/s1600/joke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img abp="1458" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2GIvv4m0aad273tEzgiMFXQ7NV2WkpVvZYPIDmt74qJyD2j3OL3wWjMe-sbjgpMugh7fZtryK5rEuPluERTiEydjy4LgzqVwtmE_OzTSHUPuiGqVuJVuvjICQ0W9jdfYqHnWlddk8sAz/s400/joke.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="1459"><td abp="1460" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span abp="1461" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyone want my autograph?</span> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1427">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<table abp="1462" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="1463">
<tr abp="1464"><td abp="1465" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1466" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzVnkV5TRwunLmbAyMrfm9hCWNC-H8wxAunW9rKTVNcfgwoNOZ7XeDTVioatdCNLhwja5ilsnGoIORwjM4DK8J4KkJJ4ntAtDKaum_UZuy4MEzI6F4k87K6fN5Y0M4edsVVHgUgLBGouNd/s1600/boys+beer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img abp="1467" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzVnkV5TRwunLmbAyMrfm9hCWNC-H8wxAunW9rKTVNcfgwoNOZ7XeDTVioatdCNLhwja5ilsnGoIORwjM4DK8J4KkJJ4ntAtDKaum_UZuy4MEzI6F4k87K6fN5Y0M4edsVVHgUgLBGouNd/s400/boys+beer.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="1468"><td abp="1469" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="1470" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tony and Ally on tour</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="929">
<span abp="930" style="font-family: Calibri;"><span abp="932" lang="EN-US"><span abp="933" style="font-size: large;"><o:p abp="934"></o:p></span></span></span> </div>
</div>
<div abp="733">
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-42703537195725555872015-05-02T20:16:00.000+01:002015-05-02T20:16:08.928+01:00Highland Fling 2015: Buddy Running a Husband<b abp="2436" id="docs-internal-guid-54fdb911-15ea-239a-6027-2fcb7a25aef1" style="font-weight: normal;"><div abp="2437" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2438" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong abp="2439">Race:</strong> The Highland Fling</span></div>
<div abp="2440">
<br abp="2441" /></div>
<div abp="2442" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2443" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong abp="2444">Distance:</strong> 53 miles</span></div>
<div abp="2445">
<br abp="2446" /></div>
<div abp="2447" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2448" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong abp="2449">Date:</strong> Saturday 25 April</span></div>
<div abp="2450">
<br abp="2451" /></div>
<div abp="2452" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2453" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong abp="2454">Reason:</strong> Keeping Scott company</span></div>
<div abp="2455">
<br abp="2456" /></div>
<div abp="2457" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2458" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong abp="2459">Times previously run:</strong> First ran in 2011, then again in 2012. Marshalled in 2013. Scott's first attempt. </span></div>
<div abp="2460">
<br abp="2461" /></div>
<div abp="2462" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2463" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The weather forecast based on previous experiences running the fling told me that it would be a hot one. The actual weather forecast told me that it was going to be well cold and raining. Finally, the actual weather meant that there was a wee drizzle at the start and then almost the perfect temperature for the rest. So that is the important weather chat done. Hope you are all creating a lovely bunch of images already.</span></div>
<div abp="2464">
</div>
<div abp="2465" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="2466">
</div>
<table abp="2467" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2468">
<tr abp="2469"><td abp="2470" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2471" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOsnlSitao9yItLrQ_ulxSt7uKgct0bGswWxPeTSj21rZgAdhSEu2k_e8_PHUNdst4u2dpKNsQVUQUR0kD14D7zJDuU_TjbEoyb68iwOf4tvvzvgScZnirjkoaJTJFArohN_fmWGhLi3b/s1600/20150425_055123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2472" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOsnlSitao9yItLrQ_ulxSt7uKgct0bGswWxPeTSj21rZgAdhSEu2k_e8_PHUNdst4u2dpKNsQVUQUR0kD14D7zJDuU_TjbEoyb68iwOf4tvvzvgScZnirjkoaJTJFArohN_fmWGhLi3b/s1600/20150425_055123.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2473"><td abp="2474" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2475" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scott's bib read MR ANTONIA</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2476" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br abp="2477" /><span abp="2478" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We start at 6am, near the rear of a 700+ field of runners all hoping to finish the race in 15 hours. The cut-off allows plenty of time for walking and it should be light almost all the way. Well it better be because we have not packed head torches. For miles we are just a chain of runners plodding along. Even early on some runners wear headphones so we try to pass them whenever we can as they are unpredictable to run behind as they aren't aware of us other runners. Don't wear headphones in a race guys, enjoy the trail. If you can't enjoy the trail, go back to the gym. </span></div>
<div abp="2479">
<br abp="2480" /></div>
<div abp="2481" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2482" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scott has only been on small parts of the trail so arriving at Conic Hill is going to be a new experience for him. There has been much talk about it. I don't t think it is that bad but I like hills. I feel bad storming up it but Scott is happy to do the same. He's faster going down than me but even I can jog down as it is so paved now. I even passed a few people going down! Must be a first for me in downhill running. Scott's verdict on Conic Hill? Easier than Arthur's Seat. So don't fear it people. <table abp="2483" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2484">
<tr abp="2485"><td abp="2486" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a abp="2487" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0IzyKkbBH4f6qymAlXIsxpY8FHwyyGrew7pxM04wXiFFOibRPpLhft2VXHAWQuVcsodtc4RMYaZuaTM8KYG5pBRbfzuM1RNiBUjKGKu-cWL5G8z6aTRTxRi8U3nTpLrwcR72H-x31Lgx/s1600/20150425_093459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2488" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0IzyKkbBH4f6qymAlXIsxpY8FHwyyGrew7pxM04wXiFFOibRPpLhft2VXHAWQuVcsodtc4RMYaZuaTM8KYG5pBRbfzuM1RNiBUjKGKu-cWL5G8z6aTRTxRi8U3nTpLrwcR72H-x31Lgx/s1600/20150425_093459.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2489"><td abp="2490" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scott coming up Conic Hill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><div abp="2491" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table abp="2492" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2493">
<tr abp="2494"><td abp="2495" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2496" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOpjzVdcG0EcDKYt_RP6uCaQjqPYigBsY32lHxnc51pV2kt27yuqpz3-a7GmygszWfJlWZgTW2-tvSMMPOdPgZ7TZbP11bJvpvTE4exT64TPM8df6AnRxIDUmaThFJVDdcyTTV_HgCunsd/s1600/conic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2497" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOpjzVdcG0EcDKYt_RP6uCaQjqPYigBsY32lHxnc51pV2kt27yuqpz3-a7GmygszWfJlWZgTW2-tvSMMPOdPgZ7TZbP11bJvpvTE4exT64TPM8df6AnRxIDUmaThFJVDdcyTTV_HgCunsd/s1600/conic.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2498"><td abp="2499" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming up Conic Hill (photo by Monument Photos)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2500">
</div>
<div abp="2501">
<br /></div>
<div abp="2502" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2503" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I love the little bit into Balmaha. Although there are loads of runners the check point is very smooth. We spend time eating, drinking and chatting before I get a bit cold and move us on. We get separated as we come down a hill in single file behind a group of walkers so I run ahead for a bit. Fifty-three miles is a long way to run next to each other anyway. Then I decide I need to use the ladies room. Actually, I have needed to for ages but because there is such a steady stream of runners it is hard to find a spot. Then around a tight bend I come to a wee track and a cliff. Luxury really. I am a bit worried that Scott won't have seen me and might wonder where I am. I know he's passed me because he stopped to help a runner who tripped right outside my bathroom! Way to leave me hanging on a cliff feeling embarrassed about potential exposure! To make matters worse, I run a few hundred metres down the trail and see an actual bathroom. Life huh. </span></div>
<div abp="2504">
</div>
<div abp="2505">
<br abp="2506" /> </div>
<table abp="2507" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2508">
<tr abp="2509"><td abp="2510" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2511" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfBu1aD-Grf30S7hWgFq6l4oQs6m4XwsYbPf2-7FPY-3jsHGX9oXybSRj6FymhRIoTa2C3K4M73F71d30MKA_DiwYBHzatAdso2c5sYaASFvIcW8OKR-t1wzcCuZ5G9EkyA9xEonh6TDv/s1600/balmaha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2512" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfBu1aD-Grf30S7hWgFq6l4oQs6m4XwsYbPf2-7FPY-3jsHGX9oXybSRj6FymhRIoTa2C3K4M73F71d30MKA_DiwYBHzatAdso2c5sYaASFvIcW8OKR-t1wzcCuZ5G9EkyA9xEonh6TDv/s1600/balmaha.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2513"><td abp="2514" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2515" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Coming out of Balmaha (photo by Ian Anderson)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2516" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2517" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span> </div>
<div abp="2518" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2519" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span> </div>
<div abp="2520" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2521" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then I put in a bit of a push to catch up with Scott. He was not worried but is now starting to struggle a bit. Maybe it was the heavy food at Balmaha, maybe it is the 20+ miles we have run. Scott's training was less than desirable. It started from scratch in mid-January after our return from our globetrotting honeymoon. He had a handful of decent weeks, then pulled back the throttle for the Transgrancanaria Maraton at the start of March. And since then we've mostly been away and he has struggled with motivation a bit. I am also not the best influence when it comes to the training hard component of running. So, he is not currently having the best of times. I ask of few questions, make a few suggestions and then back off and speak to Carol Martin who is pulling out at Rowardennan. I personally love this section of the trail as your feet get a fast flow but there are also enough twists and undulations to keep it interesting. </span></div>
<div abp="2522">
<br abp="2523" /></div>
<div abp="2524" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2525" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I come in to Rowardennan, Scott is already there with his drop bag staring at what to eat. I tell him that the crisps have to be eaten and the Honey Stinger chews packed. The few other items can join the enormous pile of left over food on the ground. I really do wonder if people pack every choice into every drop bag with the amount of food that gets left. </span></div>
<div abp="2526">
<br abp="2527" /></div>
<div abp="2528" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2529" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Before the race I had no doubt that Scott would finish, even with an unideal build up. Looking at his face now though, I realise I need to shove his arse out of the checkpoint. So we move on with me desperately searching for something inspirational to say that will turn this day around for him. I am not sure if it was the nutritional intake at Rowardennan or my superb behaviour analysis techniques but Scott gets himself back on track. His legs are very stiff and I can see his butt cheeks are clasped tightly together (don't tell me you weren't looking too ladies) pulling his legs very close. I encourage letting loose on the downhills and he moves down these much quicker than others. He is also steady walking the uphills. Not a bad situation to be in considering there are constant switchbacks for a number of miles. The running pace on the flats is very slow but this is not mattering too much as his mental states is good. I think it is ok if things are hurting and tough as long as you have a mind that is currently positive enough to commend your body on it's good effort. Before the race I was telling him that the trail was pretty much flat; now I am telling him that it is undulating so he doesn't have to worry about the running!</span></div>
<div abp="2530">
</div>
<div abp="2628" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="2629" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg048sfGPRCIK4hTMeK1ikGNyXTYQ9MlqlcWvJ5oCPh-_m8JoqEe0gwJz9VEN_4hIJ8a8xWADETK-gm2c8i2YUkfMY5D9sLUZDj9cNIXVIFtcNBrLjqnkuaLbw186pb051hm2IgGH_3Gqey/s1600/20150425_124658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="2630" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg048sfGPRCIK4hTMeK1ikGNyXTYQ9MlqlcWvJ5oCPh-_m8JoqEe0gwJz9VEN_4hIJ8a8xWADETK-gm2c8i2YUkfMY5D9sLUZDj9cNIXVIFtcNBrLjqnkuaLbw186pb051hm2IgGH_3Gqey/s1600/20150425_124658.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<div abp="2628" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div abp="2628" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div abp="2628" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="2561" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuSyyDgOuhXXr_qtgCxUhb4oeuFhkzp9atIGiZAILLk73aZVEyixssiozBt8kzjAEgLH6oV5OagZTj9wjlGOG5qZZgpOVXOxDxMlNC4IFVinYi1imF6YsiAtn1TCIRNKhVCg2GON2Item1/s1600/20150425_124716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="2562" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuSyyDgOuhXXr_qtgCxUhb4oeuFhkzp9atIGiZAILLk73aZVEyixssiozBt8kzjAEgLH6oV5OagZTj9wjlGOG5qZZgpOVXOxDxMlNC4IFVinYi1imF6YsiAtn1TCIRNKhVCg2GON2Item1/s1600/20150425_124716.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<div abp="2631">
<br abp="2531" /> </div>
<div abp="2532" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2533" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As it gets a little rougher, Scott gets stronger and starts to catch people. I am anxious for him to keep going strong while he is feeling ok as I am aware he is working hard, so I get very frustrated when people don't step aside on the trail to let others past. Some people call it trail etiquette but I like to think of it as common courtesy. That is a problem with the increase in number of people running ultras; it increases the number of them that are likely to be the rude folk that I try to avoid in my everyday life. </span></div>
<div abp="2534">
<br abp="2535" /></div>
<div abp="2536" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2537" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We form a chain coming into Inversnaid. Not the hands-holding type of chain though. That would have been weird. A guy falls down a stair which we all find a wee bit amusing (including the guy himself) as he's managed some ruffage without falling prior. I find Inversnaid a really pleasant place to be anytime and am excited that Scott is getting to see it. Keith Mabbott helps us with our drop bags and I send Scott out quickly while I natter to Rhona. Then we climb over the most technical part and I find it amusing that there is this patch when so much of the trail is like a pavement. I am not great at technical parts but I don't mind this bit. I figure everyone just goes slow as they carefully negotiate the boulders and such. It always goes on for much longer than I remember though. I feel very sorry when we catch some older walkers and they comment on how many of us there are. Poor people are getting caught by the bulk of the race field at about the worst possible place. After what I think is a fair number of miles, but is likely just a fair amount of time, I decide I had better push on and find Scott as I hadn't seen him since Inversnaid. Turns out he was not far ahead, stuck behind some runners who were engaging in some mid-trail running. </span></div>
<div abp="2538">
</div>
<div abp="2539" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="2542">
</div>
<div abp="2543" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="2544" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IYJjgy7ON-NdndvpGTBRNN0CEHDiwy7lcX97cnF1ozadaVIHhNKSIN20vHhqYE_jxEv-Yf-tdViD0v6oAJV1cJ55EzCW4E5cG4XxEbF78AtLPCOqYAutAWA-gfuU0IzSnPTmGgTqyGmm/s1600/20150425_144929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="2545" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IYJjgy7ON-NdndvpGTBRNN0CEHDiwy7lcX97cnF1ozadaVIHhNKSIN20vHhqYE_jxEv-Yf-tdViD0v6oAJV1cJ55EzCW4E5cG4XxEbF78AtLPCOqYAutAWA-gfuU0IzSnPTmGgTqyGmm/s1600/20150425_144929.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<div abp="2546">
</div>
<div abp="2548">
</div>
<div abp="2550">
<br abp="2551" /> </div>
<div abp="2552" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2553" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once we are out on the open grass, the brain has a chance to do a wee body check. Scott's brain has decided that his legs hurt and he is struggling. My brain has decided that I have a sore tummy. So I plod along slightly in front, needing a bit of alone time myself. At some point my pelvis starts to really hurt and I am quite excited about this. It really needs to make a decision about what it is doing so I can decide whether I can enter big challenges this year or not. Hopefully it is going to blow out good and proper again so that it is a decision made. Scott might have to finish by himself then though, as it's likely I wouldn't even beat the sweeper at the pace I would be forced to make. But then, alas, as if by bloody miracle, the pelvis is ok again. </span></div>
<div abp="2554">
<br abp="2555" /></div>
<div abp="2556" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2557" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don't want to promise Scott as to how far we have to go until Bein Glas. Too far. This part is always a drag. Once we leave that final checkpoint we know it is homeward bound. When it finally arrives I decide to queue up at the port-a-loo conveniently placed on the trail. I must say that I was delighted with it's cleanliness. Compared with the toilets in Turin, it was a lovely experience. Then I tear into the checkpoint to much applause. Err, bit of a fraud here. Not racing, just helping the hubby along. And I've just had a break at the port-a-loo. Fortunately, Scott is still at the checkpoint being looked after by Matt Williamson. It is more fortunate for him than it is for me because I have the bottle opener for the beer attached to my pack. After a quick cheer of bottles (Ok, so Scott's was a plastic coke bottle) I send him out of the checkpoint and on his merry way. Then I hang out drinking my beer and talking rubbish. I am parched as because I have not bothered to drink anything since Inversnaid. Homeward bound I figured. </span></div>
<div abp="2565">
<br abp="2566" /></div>
<div abp="2567" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2568" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shortly after exiting the checkpoint, the 7.7% Innis & Gunn begins to take it's effect and I speak loads of rubbish to Ashok. In hindsight, it is probably the fastest I have consumed a beer since university. I definitely felt like I was floating. And being tremendously funny. Just before we cut under the road, we catch Scott. He has run well over the switchbacks but is having another hard time. There is a long patch before the woods which I do not remember as I am not on the trail often and have not been on this part since I ran the West Highland Way in 2012. I run ahead trying to push Scott on. At one point I turn around and startle a guy by declaring that he is not my husband. I had just assumed the footsteps I was hearing were his. I keep promising Scott that he will like the woods more. And he does. He tears down the hills while Ian King and I share stories of travel drama. </span></div>
<div abp="2569">
<br abp="2570" /></div>
<div abp="2571" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2572" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having a beer with 12 miles to go was slightly ambitious. I think it is more of a five mile to go treat as I now have a sore tummy again and need to take an emergency stop. Once back in track I think I better catch Scott again as I am slightly worried that he may have taken a wrong turn coming down the hill. As I zoom across the main road, Tim Downie cheekily asks if I have been taking a rest. The road through the farm stretches out ahead and I can see Scott in the distance; walking. Walking? He mustn't walk; it is flat from here to the finish. We will finish strong with a run until the finish. He is not having a bar of it. Neither are most of the people around him. I am up and down like a Jack Russell, nipping at him. I try to think of positive things to say. I try to coax him on. I am conscious that my patience is running out. I am also conscious that Scott came all the way to Turin just for me to give up and he could throw that back in my face if he wanted to right now. So I stomp ahead and then I wait. Then I stomp ahead again. At one point I pull him by his arm and at another I push him from behind. Apparently neither of these help. When he says that he is saving himself for the finishing straight I tell that that is just lying to people and he might as well just walk through. I think that was the only mean thing I said during the race though! </span></div>
<div abp="2573">
<br abp="2574" /></div>
<div abp="2575" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2576" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finally we hear the piper. Scott wants a photo. He is wasting time. But then he does run through the finishing straight; probably because he really wants Ena's soup. And one of the reasons it all felt so tough for him? Twelve hours and 15 minutes - over an hour faster than expected! </span></div>
<div abp="2575" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2576" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span> </div>
<div abp="2577" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2578" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span> </div>
<table abp="2579" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2580">
<tr abp="2581"><td abp="2582" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2583" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuIrAWx6JaYEPCtXkEE_Jeagg2gMljyQatTBlibEeOlO-J5-isjawOZMQaB3p-B5Q2TT5QHWkc2DVXxT8oQI2Xv2hZAZFN_T2kVJNAeFDZQmiQqcEGiPd1025CqC06Ut3xcjuWxQkolmyr/s1600/finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2584" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuIrAWx6JaYEPCtXkEE_Jeagg2gMljyQatTBlibEeOlO-J5-isjawOZMQaB3p-B5Q2TT5QHWkc2DVXxT8oQI2Xv2hZAZFN_T2kVJNAeFDZQmiQqcEGiPd1025CqC06Ut3xcjuWxQkolmyr/s1600/finish.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2585"><td abp="2586" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2587" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finishing the Highland Fling (photo by Clark Hamilton)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2588" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2589" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span> </div>
<div abp="2590">
<br abp="2591" /></div>
<div abp="2592" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2593" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a tough run for Scott. I have had many races where it has felt hard most of the way and I have had to push but I have not been mentally down for as much of a race as he was during the fling. During the race he said he doesn't want to do another one because he never enjoys them. Instead he would rather just go for runs at the weekend. Fair play and probably a healthier lifestyle choice. He has already changed his mind slightly though... He's thinking maybe just one a year would be ok :) </span></div>
<div abp="2594">
<br abp="2595" /></div>
<div abp="2596" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2597" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Personally, I was delighted with my own performance. With the World 24 Hour Champs just two weeks prior and some lingering injuries, I thought that my legs might really struggle. I even warned Scott not to wait for me in case I couldn't keep up! I had visions of being swept in. Instead my legs felt great during and have been fine after. If only all training runs could feel like that. </span></div>
<div abp="2598">
<br abp="2599" /></div>
<div abp="2600" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2601" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thanks to all the marshals who made the drop bags easy and that Alice lady who is really good at putting medals around people's necks. Thank you to John who I know puts much heart and effort into organising. Thank you to Sarah for the ride back to Edinburgh. I know you will achieve your running goals this year. </span></div>
<div abp="2602">
<br abp="2603" /></div>
<div abp="2604" dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span abp="2605" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So what have I learnt this April? Helping someone else achieve their own goals is much more fun than failing at your own. </span></div>
</div>
</b><div abp="2606">
<br abp="2607" class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-23357797077756869372015-04-26T20:00:00.000+01:002015-04-26T20:01:48.003+01:00IAU World 24 Hour Championships 2015 - Torino<div abp="847">
<div abp="738">
<div abp="2471">
<span abp="848" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span abp="849" style="color: #0b5394;"><b abp="850"></b></span></span> </div>
</div>
<div abp="738">
<div abp="2476">
<a abp="1105" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpok7tC2TyeYBB0UrlM_B7jShNtTivqFXcsZOxm9MteyrdwUvqeQxtDS2R6DWpMm3sRvENkwlA2T2-BBAsfN33Hbl7To3MgpYX7WIkJcSQmAv2AS_1MTLp7vSwaSMrs2st3msmR07hnjbx/s1600/coffee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img abp="1106" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpok7tC2TyeYBB0UrlM_B7jShNtTivqFXcsZOxm9MteyrdwUvqeQxtDS2R6DWpMm3sRvENkwlA2T2-BBAsfN33Hbl7To3MgpYX7WIkJcSQmAv2AS_1MTLp7vSwaSMrs2st3msmR07hnjbx/s1600/coffee.JPG" height="400" width="225" /></a><span abp="848" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span abp="849" style="color: #0b5394;"><b abp="850"></b></span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="738">
<div abp="2483">
<span abp="848" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span abp="849" style="color: #0b5394;"><b abp="850">Date</b>:</span> Saturday 11 April 2015</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="851">
<div abp="743">
<div abp="2489">
<span abp="852" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="853" /></span>
<span abp="854" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span abp="855" style="color: #0b5394;"><b abp="856">Location:</b></span> Parco Ruffini, Turin, Italy</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="857">
<div abp="750">
<div abp="2497">
<span abp="858" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="859" /></span>
<span abp="860" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b abp="861"><span abp="862" style="color: #0b5394;">Event:</span></b> World 24 hour championships, European 24 hour championships and Italian 24 hour championships. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="863">
<div abp="757">
<div abp="2505">
<span abp="864" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="865" /></span>
<span abp="866" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b abp="867"><span abp="868" style="color: #0b5394;">Reason:</span></b> No other pressing weekend plans and/or insanity.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="869">
<div abp="764">
<div abp="2513">
<span abp="870" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="871" /></span>
<span abp="872" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b abp="873"><span abp="874" style="color: #0b5394;">Course:</span></b> A lap of a bouncy blue athletics track, an incline up through a tunnel out of the athletics stadium, some long straights along footpath around the outside of the stadium, some long tree-lined straights along road around the outside of the stadium, a cheeky road hairpin, some more road and then a decline back through the tunnel into the athletics stadium. Total distance = 2km (although the first lap was 1.7km). I quite liked it. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="875">
<div abp="771">
<div abp="2521">
<span abp="876" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="877" /></span>
<span abp="878" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b abp="879"><span abp="880" style="color: #0b5394;">The New Zealand Team:</span></b> Kim Allan, Vivian Cheng, Valerie Muskett, Wayne Botha, John Bayne, Graeme Butcher, Brian McCorkindale and myself. A good looking bunch indeed with loads of various experience. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="881">
<div abp="778">
<span abp="882" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2530">
<br /></div>
<span abp="882" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2532">
<span abp="884" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b abp="885"><span abp="886" style="color: #0b5394;">My crew: </span></b>Scott. Poor soul. </span></div>
<div abp="2536">
<span abp="2537" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
<div abp="2911" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="887">
<div abp="785">
<table abp="2540" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2541">
<tr abp="2542"><td abp="2543" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2544" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxEtLq20WfgeRxe5ow4yiFa8sYQvzhf3MJaOhCRsIRZNqAz4pcn4NFQvs-7Hu8ts4NKNxMoVP6kVC3dJBxt6MlxIQ2OmwrjjJXsFbx-B9xW3INHdZ6PXkarW4070Y9l4f760Egz3CNeWyo/s1600/flag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2545" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxEtLq20WfgeRxe5ow4yiFa8sYQvzhf3MJaOhCRsIRZNqAz4pcn4NFQvs-7Hu8ts4NKNxMoVP6kVC3dJBxt6MlxIQ2OmwrjjJXsFbx-B9xW3INHdZ6PXkarW4070Y9l4f760Egz3CNeWyo/s1600/flag.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2546"><td abp="2547" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2548" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">New Zealand flag bearer. Well proud.</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2549">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<h3 abp="890">
<span abp="891" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pre race</span></h3>
<div abp="892">
<div abp="791">
<div abp="2554">
<br /></div>
</div>
<span abp="893" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="791">
<div abp="2557">
<span abp="895" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There's some minor drama when I realise that I have not planned how to get my chip onto my lock laces. Fortunately, I have a ribbon in my pocket and we use that to tie the chip on in an unprofessional and slightly precarious manner. I am then only left with white ribbons and Scott does a stellar job of tying in a few bows that lasted the distance. Every time I went over a timing mat I looked at my shoe to check that my chip was still on. Debbie M-C pops her head in while I am in the middle of a thorough vaseline application. She doesn't want to shake hands. She does want a bit of of my Osmo preload though. I probably led to her running a personal best.</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="1206">
<div abp="2560">
</div>
</div>
<table abp="2561" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2562">
<tr abp="2563"><td abp="2564" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="1208" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi57Ju0pdBgYXWHN4xKVWl6tcYJKDeYksRgunCMGi65a4P9oZITClkWeL4jB4sRA7YZSkXERy0nmuFE2O2WEpvD9P1v8K8tMRAeY1amr8Wr1vN_ywhOg12g_baKhTptDFh1Bwigp8eQHV4G/s1600/group+start.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="1209" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi57Ju0pdBgYXWHN4xKVWl6tcYJKDeYksRgunCMGi65a4P9oZITClkWeL4jB4sRA7YZSkXERy0nmuFE2O2WEpvD9P1v8K8tMRAeY1amr8Wr1vN_ywhOg12g_baKhTptDFh1Bwigp8eQHV4G/s1600/group+start.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2567"><td abp="2568" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2569" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Team New Zealand; Graeme Butcher, Kim Allan, Brian McCorkindale, Vivian Cheng, Valerie Muskett, Wayne Botha, me and John Bayne</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1210">
<div abp="2571">
</div>
</div>
<div abp="791">
<div abp="2573">
</div>
<table abp="2574" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2575">
<tr abp="2576"><td abp="2577" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2578" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdov-1cw_vSrN2PkR9GrvCtefeC713pRwHDucobynMG8ihXrwL_RKgLlSVU7DUBn20SEhLsm5Fxv5WI85wOsVzM-KqqxBzgiG8JGAOn8X4evff49uiKz0ySypzomEx_axZsx4s8LTx4wW/s1600/start+smile.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2579" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdov-1cw_vSrN2PkR9GrvCtefeC713pRwHDucobynMG8ihXrwL_RKgLlSVU7DUBn20SEhLsm5Fxv5WI85wOsVzM-KqqxBzgiG8JGAOn8X4evff49uiKz0ySypzomEx_axZsx4s8LTx4wW/s1600/start+smile.JPG" height="400" width="223" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2580"><td abp="2581" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2582" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Who wears short shorts?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2583">
<br />
<table abp="2584" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2585">
<tr abp="2586"><td abp="2587" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2588" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinyTQ5ob2aHXloWa8jNIOKjPTk-iRwxe-N9lwekP7xlYLXGMmOqLJZRBV8GlP69Sl9FbgCCcSWyVCb5a8t6OIm1mLRy_ubs0Phm0rfPespG_CzVz32f6rX-wx1PpGLKWtUbd6vML5vibb5/s1600/start+runnes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2589" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinyTQ5ob2aHXloWa8jNIOKjPTk-iRwxe-N9lwekP7xlYLXGMmOqLJZRBV8GlP69Sl9FbgCCcSWyVCb5a8t6OIm1mLRy_ubs0Phm0rfPespG_CzVz32f6rX-wx1PpGLKWtUbd6vML5vibb5/s1600/start+runnes.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2590"><td abp="2591" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2592" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And the 500 runners are off</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span abp="897" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="898" /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<h3 abp="899">
<span abp="900" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The running</span></h3>
<div abp="901">
<div abp="802">
<div abp="2599">
<span abp="902" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="903" /></span>
<span abp="904" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are loads of us. Something like 350 world championship runners and over 100 open runners. For hours I run feeling awkward as I go slow but know that it is not slow enough. I also feel awkward because my shorts are tiny. I get a drink every half hour which prompts me to eat my HoneyStinger chews. Each hour, I get a 300ml Nathan handheld with snacks in the pocket. I carry this for one lap and hand it back to Scott. It all works pretty well and for the first six hours I don't struggle with eating. I am also eating ginger to help with my dodgy stomach. I hate ginger. Even when it is covered in chocolate, it is still fowl. It's pretty warm but that's not bothering me too much. The heat is enhancing the smell from the port-a-loos though which start to reek from about an hour in. There's also a patch that the men keep using to pee and now that stinks. Later on the race organisers tape that area off. I love that they took the effort to do that but didn't bother replacing the toilet tissue in the port-a-loos. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="905">
<div abp="807">
<div abp="2605">
<span abp="906" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="907" /></span>
<span abp="908" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For a few hours I tail Great Britain's Isobel Wykes who was so kind to me at the Perth 100km a few years back. Back when I was fit and slim. She has battled a fear of flying to get here and I refuse to pass her as she's faster than me. There is some chat with foreign runners who are intrigued as to how old I am and then disappointed to find out that I am not 16. Sorry about that folks. I wish I was still that young too. Another one of Great Britain's runners is Emily Gelder and she's a right laugh. It is a split race between those who are well focused and those of us who are just doing our best to maintain a positive attitude and some dignity despite whatever our current problems are. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2609">
<span abp="910" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div abp="817">
<div abp="2612" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="2613" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="2614" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMEJhUqRxubb9ma6vHZgXlp8UZcm7_pZEBeL5Vqoav7ec0NTA5UzNwOKkWLNncSk6l0kFGNzezSTZLYcryUBt9KpBOaABwB9DTxEOkdCk21i3XHWEZ0nMTXeoB3uukny9W0FsZcKYkcFP/s1600/thumbs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="2615" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMEJhUqRxubb9ma6vHZgXlp8UZcm7_pZEBeL5Vqoav7ec0NTA5UzNwOKkWLNncSk6l0kFGNzezSTZLYcryUBt9KpBOaABwB9DTxEOkdCk21i3XHWEZ0nMTXeoB3uukny9W0FsZcKYkcFP/s1600/thumbs.JPG" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div abp="2616">
</div>
<div abp="2617">
</div>
<div abp="2618" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="2619" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2DbNeKxojy6JBPvTqh09gWzjSpBO8Tuzc1nnsZD-4Jsi6iDa6OdBjdYSSJStP3I4HqZ0CrV5p2qA9FKCJz5rFonX9o00JO0fZ2WZtrqAXSR8FoFSISukZ22_YzLKpj32JoD20AeDvPTp/s1600/early+run.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="2620" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2DbNeKxojy6JBPvTqh09gWzjSpBO8Tuzc1nnsZD-4Jsi6iDa6OdBjdYSSJStP3I4HqZ0CrV5p2qA9FKCJz5rFonX9o00JO0fZ2WZtrqAXSR8FoFSISukZ22_YzLKpj32JoD20AeDvPTp/s1600/early+run.JPG" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div abp="2621">
</div>
<div abp="2622">
</div>
</div>
<div abp="909">
<div abp="819">
<div abp="2625">
<span abp="912" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For a number of laps I run with Emma, from the Australian team. It is good to have someone to run with and get a bit of down under banter. Unfortunately, Emma is feeling the heat. Not a good sign when an Australian is feeling the heat. We do discuss important matters in life though, such as how good a satisfactory toilet break can be. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="909">
<div abp="822">
<div abp="2629">
<span abp="823" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="909">
<div abp="825">
<div abp="2633">
<span abp="826" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Gosh my legs hurt. Those so well rested legs are of no benefit now. At least I am out here. Stay positive. I am so lucky to be out running with all these great people. I feel it too. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="913">
<div abp="828">
<div abp="2637">
<span abp="914" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="915" /></span>
<span abp="916" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am not the best runner out there. I am not even in the top half. So instead I focus my energies on being the crowd favourite. Scott and I chose to stay at an apartment close to the park. I enjoy being able to spread out my kit, wander about in my pants and prepare food. The lady who owns the apartment came out to cheer creating an influx of others cheering out my name. It helps that Antonia is Italian and said beautifully in the Italian accent. At the second corner outside of the stadium are a large group of supporters. They sing, wave and high five. Once they get wind of my name, they start screaming as I come down the straight and don't stop until I am out of sight. The support from the open runner's support crews along the last straight before the athletics stadium is also incredible. I am a local celebrity. Take that, you fast runners. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="917">
<div abp="833">
<span abp="918" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2643">
<br /></div>
<span abp="918" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2643">
<span abp="920" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">All this smiling is really starting to take a toll on my neck though. Like it really hurts. All my left-sided injuries are taking their turn at providing me with some dull pain which is the best I can hope for from them. I need to focus at keeping my head down; a hard thing to do when there are so many fans to wave at. The boy who held the New Zealand sign at the opening ceremony is out cheering now with his family. Don't want to let the wee fellow down. </span></div>
<div abp="2643">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2937" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmRs5CIW0LMCttDMFnW7nQ6DvlJj1gQjmfDnDtjEKEzS25d8U7vL9YXEWJhqbO8yN_d5G96gWlpA1C8fGFiqFEbSdw9qDZzCSrEmp8dvqvXMjAh4t0nf1eAQD2DYVndFv6UHt5GSzdcLS/s1600/run+issy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2938" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmRs5CIW0LMCttDMFnW7nQ6DvlJj1gQjmfDnDtjEKEzS25d8U7vL9YXEWJhqbO8yN_d5G96gWlpA1C8fGFiqFEbSdw9qDZzCSrEmp8dvqvXMjAh4t0nf1eAQD2DYVndFv6UHt5GSzdcLS/s1600/run+issy.jpg" height="205" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Everyone say cheese (and then get a really sore neck)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2643">
<span abp="922" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="923" /></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<h3 abp="924">
<span abp="925" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The plodding</span></h3>
<div abp="926">
<div abp="844">
<span abp="927" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2657">
<br /></div>
<span abp="927" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2659">
<span abp="929" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The race started at 10am which I thought was great. Not too much pissing about in the morning. After nine or so hours it becomes difficult to calculate the actual time. I want to make sure I put extra layers on before I get cold this year. Some parts of the course are hotter than others so I spend an hour feeling both hot and cold. After about 10 hours I decide to take a seat to eat and put on a Pearl Izumi base layer and some capris. My team mate's support, Ilaria, is a sports masseuse and she gives my legs a good rub as I sit. I am not stopped long and promptly smacked on the bottom to get out of the tent. </span></div>
<div abp="2661">
<span abp="2662" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
<table abp="2663" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2664">
<tr abp="2665"><td abp="2666" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2667" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuofa3EpNEPONqFf00A31iFV9iGbwmUhYAYzPARkUC2_2KVJyAPWHPXsJPv0hHPPkDYph3HSjyaVCh1WDZIGVIyi0RUXwcni2tShivamNAcG8OZmZ2utq1SzsfDZQN2s9YfkEfRllPmX-Y/s1600/100+better.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2668" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuofa3EpNEPONqFf00A31iFV9iGbwmUhYAYzPARkUC2_2KVJyAPWHPXsJPv0hHPPkDYph3HSjyaVCh1WDZIGVIyi0RUXwcni2tShivamNAcG8OZmZ2utq1SzsfDZQN2s9YfkEfRllPmX-Y/s1600/100+better.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2669"><td abp="2670" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2671" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Celebrating 100km</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2672">
<span abp="931" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="932" /></span>
<span abp="933" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">At around midnight, we're treated to some excitement on the course as the port-a-loos get emptied. This causes much conversation and we're all eager to try out the new, cleaner versions. When there are only 10 toilets for 500 runners in a 24 hour race, these pleasures are never going to stay long. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="934">
<div abp="854">
<div abp="2678">
<span abp="935" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="936" /></span>
<span abp="937" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In another two hours I have a porridge break. I tell myself to run until the porridge break (12 hours in) and then I will take another sit down. That dangerous time in the race has come; the bargaining time. I plod on determinedly for another two hours and am again not granted much sitting time. Before I am even out of the tent I am asking about the next timed creamed rice. I want to know when I can stop next. There's no creamed rice for ages but there's a cup-a-soup in another few hours. I will run until then. Fortunately, I get the privilege of running a few laps with Wayne which takes my mind off things. He's had a rough build-up too. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<span abp="939" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="938">
<div abp="859">
<div abp="2685">
<br />
<span abp="939" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<span abp="939" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="938">
<div abp="859">
<div abp="2689">
<span abp="941" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The New Zealand team are struggling and although I don't know it, many other teams are struggling too. Runners are dropping like flies. Val and John have gone back to the hotel, Graeme and Viv are laying on the tent floor and Wayne and I are wrapped in blankets. </span></div>
<div abp="2691">
<span abp="2692" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
<table abp="2693" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2694">
<tr abp="2695"><td abp="2696" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2697" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ppLqwMvrLHBQRDRpWfuoLJyjRrQ5i_ec948fM0O3ooXHVI6_7euFfgLQYKNzPghbSYu_ipBOdDtJJtH_mzGlLYyRtm7IGrTET0piWEQd5ZVHqkQ-qj4wNCOdavqNAsU9Cq0kfBjohlPC/s1600/stop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2698" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ppLqwMvrLHBQRDRpWfuoLJyjRrQ5i_ec948fM0O3ooXHVI6_7euFfgLQYKNzPghbSYu_ipBOdDtJJtH_mzGlLYyRtm7IGrTET0piWEQd5ZVHqkQ-qj4wNCOdavqNAsU9Cq0kfBjohlPC/s1600/stop.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2699"><td abp="2700" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2701" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Ilaria gives me a massage</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2702" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table abp="2703" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2704">
<tr abp="2705"><td abp="2706" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2707" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoBkKgL7PUf2VYsrRzPSeVzye-SuIK23c4iiCUDN6KbaaBXE1qGiJUERMRMUDfd_HOUFgW3b3jlYva0F20P2UIuQjGqBTI99Vw-DHyvmR2k9MC4hnm9StxGTyhIFugS2EIyvurstK1FPDN/s1600/night.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2708" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoBkKgL7PUf2VYsrRzPSeVzye-SuIK23c4iiCUDN6KbaaBXE1qGiJUERMRMUDfd_HOUFgW3b3jlYva0F20P2UIuQjGqBTI99Vw-DHyvmR2k9MC4hnm9StxGTyhIFugS2EIyvurstK1FPDN/s1600/night.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2709"><td abp="2710" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2711" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Fake it 'till you flake it</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2712">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<h3 abp="945">
<span abp="946" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b abp="947">The dawdling </b></span></h3>
<div abp="870">
<div abp="875">
<div abp="2718">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div abp="948">
<div abp="877">
<div abp="2721">
<span abp="951" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Maybe the race has been going for 15 hours or something. It's all feeling a bit hard and I decide to take a walking lap. In contrast to the recommended running strategy for a 24 hour race, I've been giving it my all on most laps and my legs are running out of steam. I am running out of steam. I've been intentionally heel striking as it relieves the pain from other injuries. Before the race, I promised Scott and my sister Olivia that if any injuries got bad I would not push it. This race was not worth it. Although I can feel the arrival of ultra runner's ankle on my left foot, I confess to Scott that the pain is not enough to stop me running but maybe I could do with a wee bit of walking. I put on extra layers; long tights, arm warmers and a jacket. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="948">
<div abp="880">
<div abp="2725">
<span abp="951" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="948">
<div abp="883">
<div abp="2729">
<span abp="951" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I don't start running again. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="952">
<div abp="886">
<div abp="2733">
<span abp="953" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="954" /></span>
<span abp="955" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After one lap of walking, I realise that I am far too cold. Another layer goes on, along with a headband, buff and gloves. Another runner tells me that there is a place where I can go to get warm and I am trying to convince Scott to let me go there. He doesn't know where it is. I meet him at the tunnel after doing another walking lap, The medics produce a foil blanket for me. A foil blanket? That's not what I want; I want an excuse to stop. So I wrap myself in the foil blanket for another lap walking. Considering I spent most of my training walking on a treadmill rather than running, you'd think I would be walking a bit faster. But no, I am the slowest on the course. And being the slowest means that I am very lonely. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="956">
<div abp="891">
<span abp="957" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2740">
<span abp="957" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="957" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2741">
<span abp="959" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'd like a hot drink but at the same time as I put on all my layers, the power blew and now not only is the athletics stadium dark but the kettles are not working either. There had been a fire and the fire brigade wanted to stop the race for a few hours. I would have backed them on that one. </span></div>
<div abp="2743">
<span abp="2744" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="960">
<div abp="896">
<table abp="2747" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2748">
<tr abp="2749"><td abp="2750" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2751" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKANO8LWLXgVi8DL04astbzv1QMTdO_ZtIwJUL-CANJHqmH_lxDY5T8SNCEoKZBhgNllD4utrHJrdbOkqBIpd6YMUOx3VGx9rA76k4zhbabn6rT0uRBk5YUqcdEmwTVf5n5Gxb6LzoKJQL/s1600/blankets.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2752" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKANO8LWLXgVi8DL04astbzv1QMTdO_ZtIwJUL-CANJHqmH_lxDY5T8SNCEoKZBhgNllD4utrHJrdbOkqBIpd6YMUOx3VGx9rA76k4zhbabn6rT0uRBk5YUqcdEmwTVf5n5Gxb6LzoKJQL/s1600/blankets.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2753"><td abp="2754" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2755" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Wayne and I take a break for some modelling shots</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2756">
<span abp="961" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="962" /></span>
<span abp="963" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wrapped in my foil blanket I look a delight shuffling around the course. I get mostly compliments and one blasting from Debbie about being 'Scottish for f*** sake!' Technically I am warm enough but the core of me still feels cold. I also have to wrap myself tightly which makes walking difficult. I am not being entirely successful. Kim is pelting the laps out, having had a tough race and offers me a puffer jacket to wear so that I can move my arms better. Good call, and on it goes. I am now a vision in red. Graeme's wife, Brenda, tells me that if I move my arms my legs will follow. I move my arms rapidly for about one hundred metres before lazing back into a dawdle. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="901" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span abp="965" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="966" /></span>
<span abp="967" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the darkness I spot GB runner, Karen Hathaway, talking to the pavement. I force her to listen to my dribble for the rest of the lap. Poor girl. She didn't run again after that. It was probably to avoid me.</span></div>
<span abp="969" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="906">
<span abp="969" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<span abp="969" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="906">
<span abp="971" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The port-a-loos, despite their terrible state, are at least warm. Although mentally coherent, I am lacking in anyone to chat with. With my loss of bladder control (why does it happen?!) I fear that I will fall asleep in a warm port-a-loo, thus not only hogging a valuable port-a-loo but also causing the team alarm at my absence. So instead I demand to be allowed a little rest in the tent. During the Thunder Run I had a four hour sleep and woke up again able to run so I decide to try that tactic. Unfortunately, I am just not that tired and I am too cold to sleep. Everyone in the tent is on board looking after me and I at least have the mental capacity to tell them that I am still cold and won't be leaving the tent until I am warm. When is the sun coming up? Those darn birds have been chirping for hours. </span></div>
<div abp="906">
</div>
<div abp="906">
<table abp="2770" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2771">
<tr abp="2772"><td abp="2773" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2774" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYj_wkaYDzIpJ21XekrMTZACocnWNmT7Y7IG-jdMu16FRcIkQwaCckAaf3plUJFYmjazs3cbdhRKUT8G-xwI1tp7_qDnjoFt_4jdwr_OckbV2NYQX_Jnp1Pi_1Moxt7Jyq7CaLLhfJNg6/s1600/break.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2775" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYj_wkaYDzIpJ21XekrMTZACocnWNmT7Y7IG-jdMu16FRcIkQwaCckAaf3plUJFYmjazs3cbdhRKUT8G-xwI1tp7_qDnjoFt_4jdwr_OckbV2NYQX_Jnp1Pi_1Moxt7Jyq7CaLLhfJNg6/s1600/break.JPG" height="400" width="223" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2776"><td abp="2777" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2778" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Better make myself look ill; I don't want to be sent back out</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div abp="906">
<span abp="973" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="974" /></span>
<span abp="975" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I had hoped that after the extended rest I would be back running new again. Nope. Not this time. So I walk and walk and walk. There is nothing at all to walk for. There will be no personal best, no milestone achievement, I really should just be going back to the apartment. But I walk. It is good to cheer for those still out. People clap for me but they shouldn't; my race is over. I gave up. I have no excuse. </span></div>
<div abp="976">
<div abp="916">
<div abp="2785">
<span abp="977" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="978" /></span>
<span abp="979" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Occasionally I attempt a run but it doesn't work. It just doesn't happen. Kim is still looping like a trooper. With an hour and a half to go, I walk into Great British athlete and fellow Team Nathan UK team mate, Fionna Ross. My mind is saved by walking the rest of the race with her. We waste time as I constantly de-layer. Then we stuff around further with a wee toilet adventure and the search for some secretly stashed toilet tissue.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="980">
<div abp="921">
<span abp="981" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2791">
<br /></div>
<span abp="981" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div abp="2791">
<span abp="983" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The fans are back out; some even running backwards around the course. I feel embarrassed. I can still smile but I am just walking. We power walk a lap to get in another lap before the hooter but it is not much to be proud of. </span></div>
<div abp="2791">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
<span abp="2914" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<table abp="2915" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2916">
<tr abp="2917"><td abp="2918" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2919" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCrsi9znvQXnhbnjOXbl0lniBJIKJrKoPtpO1BcfES3iKj9TDerVenIxjuo4VvyP2p34bzbhC2nDg2pT_9uYYo-18vUBL8yPkYwUOnZN4rgxFcBDVlZxAxBifINHk0KmMeOaEbN2UFbWl/s1600/red+night.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="2920" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img abp="2921" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCrsi9znvQXnhbnjOXbl0lniBJIKJrKoPtpO1BcfES3iKj9TDerVenIxjuo4VvyP2p34bzbhC2nDg2pT_9uYYo-18vUBL8yPkYwUOnZN4rgxFcBDVlZxAxBifINHk0KmMeOaEbN2UFbWl/s1600/red+night.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2922"><td abp="2923" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2924" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thanks to Kim for the red jacket</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span abp="2925" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div abp="2791">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="984">
<div abp="926">
<div abp="2797">
<span abp="985" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="986" /></span>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<h3 abp="987">
<span abp="988" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The reflection</span></h3>
<div abp="989">
<div abp="932">
<div abp="2804">
<span abp="990" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br abp="991" /></span>
<span abp="992" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">No excuses; I gave up. If I had run 181km and kept going the whole time, that would be ok. It would ok if through a lack of training that is all I was capable of. But that wasn't the case. My heart just wasn't in it. I wasn't willing to keep trying. I am disappointed. I feel bad. I will move on. And hey, it's not a bad base fitness level to have. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="936">
<div abp="2809">
<span abp="994" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div abp="993">
<div abp="943">
<div abp="2813">
<span abp="996" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A huge congratulations to all those who stormed the race. There was even one runner with two broken arms! Epic achievements. Thanks to Team New Zealand for being awesome Kiwis. A big thank you to Scott who put up with me fretting about all the little decisions that were never going to make up for any lack of training (but never actually saying that to me)! Thanks to my big sister, Olivia, who although couldn't travel to Italy because of the pesky chemo, provided me with sound advice and reminds me to keep life in perspective. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="993">
<div abp="946">
<div abp="2817">
<span abp="947" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="993">
<div abp="949">
<div abp="2821">
<span abp="950" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">And then yesterday I ran 53 miles in the Highland Fling with Scott which isn't too shabby after powering out a good 12-hour race two weeks ago. Must have been the eight hours of recovery walking during the race in Torino that helped out. Also, maybe I should stick to 12-hour racing?! </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="997">
<div abp="952">
<div abp="2825">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="998">
<div abp="954">
<table abp="2892" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2893">
<tr abp="2894"><td abp="2895" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="2896" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTjA2w03TVb5L-RQpPxue9o1hLlPe1Kl7BmGMtoS88qrvszQ3bxR4jMesP-u85UaLN7oUZocswO20UvKFl0A0MbBvJpCBMJlHfkfB_yLJORd22sVDtOf173doilQG8EhseOD6vYjibR1B/s1600/business+class.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2897" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTjA2w03TVb5L-RQpPxue9o1hLlPe1Kl7BmGMtoS88qrvszQ3bxR4jMesP-u85UaLN7oUZocswO20UvKFl0A0MbBvJpCBMJlHfkfB_yLJORd22sVDtOf173doilQG8EhseOD6vYjibR1B/s1600/business+class.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="2898"><td abp="2899" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="2900" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Enjoying our business class tickets on the return journey</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2831">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="999">
<div abp="956">
<div abp="2834">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1000">
<div abp="958">
<div abp="2837">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1001">
<div abp="960">
<div abp="2840">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1002">
<div abp="962">
<div abp="2843">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1003">
<div abp="964">
<div abp="2846">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1004">
<div abp="966">
<div abp="2849">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1005">
<div abp="968">
<div abp="2852">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1006">
<div abp="970">
<div abp="2855">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1007">
<div abp="972">
<div abp="2858">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="1008">
<div abp="974">
<div abp="2861">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="2862">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-31389247356368770412015-04-10T09:30:00.000+01:002015-04-10T09:32:16.714+01:00Yikes! Upcoming World ChampionshipsThis year the IAU World 24 Hour Championships are in Torino, Italy. Italy is nice. They specialise in carbohydrates too. I like carbohydrates. And a long weekend in a new place is fun. It all sounded like a good plan at the time.<br />
<br />
In the last few months so many wee incidents have occurred that made me wonder why I am still going. Fortunately, I am insanely stubborn and didn't listen to them. Here's a snapshot, just for some hilarity...<br />
<br />
Within two weeks of returning from honeymoon I developed plantar fasciitis. With plantar fasciitis under control, I develop ischial bursitis. All exercise is suspended and I can barely dress myself unassisted. That's ok, we roll who these things and I manage to walk/run Transgrancanaria feeling none of the above mentioned grizzles. Just to prove that the mind is an amazing thing, they come back with a vengeance accompanied by a toe/foot injury. It must be from my epic treadmill walking (honestly, it's addictive). Then, just for a laugh, my shoes start cutting my toe which then get infected and now my whole foot keeps swelling. Who knew adults could use Savlon too? So I'm running in flip flops.<br />
<br />
My uniform didn't arrive until the day before my departure. This was a super stress and thankfully the heartthrob of the team, Wayne Botha, brought an extra one over for me. I am very grateful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_n8Qm1btzyuLhOGg9uDz8tnie0Z03yNuNP3NLJXRdn50GSZrhiXY_0hvK9yipgRr_CguxlxwVXQVsSpKOg8t6aeLo1s6SqJmWNfbn_dVKua7heG7PpLBnFnwv0MoSIb3x8PNorclWhrKB/s1600/20150408_222329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_n8Qm1btzyuLhOGg9uDz8tnie0Z03yNuNP3NLJXRdn50GSZrhiXY_0hvK9yipgRr_CguxlxwVXQVsSpKOg8t6aeLo1s6SqJmWNfbn_dVKua7heG7PpLBnFnwv0MoSIb3x8PNorclWhrKB/s1600/20150408_222329.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
But actually, the funniest is all the travel trauma. We booked to fly to Torino via Gatwick as my sister lives in Brighton and there was a long stop-over. I then thought it would make sense to go down at Easter, help her out during her chemo and just fly from Gatwick, skipping the Edinburgh to Gatwick leg. Unfortunately BA decided they would charge me £432 for the privilege. If I don't show up for the flight, I am counted as a no-show and the rest of my journey is cancelled. How compassionate of them. Then the train company stuffed me around and I almost remortgaged the flat to catch the train back up to Edinburgh. So the travel plans looked like this : work Saturday morning, train to York in the afternoon, spend a day with the in-laws, drive to Brighton on the Monday, spend Tuesday in hospital with my sister, train to Edinburgh on Wednesday and then fly to Torino via Gatwick on Thursday. Have you kept up? Well that Wednesday train from Brighton to London broke down and I missed my connection to Edinburgh. Cue crying helplessly on a train platform at the thought of a £156 sting for a new ticket. Somehow, by taking another two trains, I made it back. And that is why I started packing weeks ago.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDKo_ceqgnjJdJLJXsPdKV7oLY2S7pWRahDmLYy3Udy5jU18eoBnDA1mK0QHWB-v30JWe2bhMveq1qBI7V8v5_VLV1yhyphenhypheniaNBWJsG32YuZFxMvLE1z4lbwNVU0Z9PII7CHigf5G_zDS6c/s1600/20150407_162549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDKo_ceqgnjJdJLJXsPdKV7oLY2S7pWRahDmLYy3Udy5jU18eoBnDA1mK0QHWB-v30JWe2bhMveq1qBI7V8v5_VLV1yhyphenhypheniaNBWJsG32YuZFxMvLE1z4lbwNVU0Z9PII7CHigf5G_zDS6c/s1600/20150407_162549.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
But now I have arrived in Torino, having travelled with the very swish GB team, and it is all going to be ok. There is a supermarket just around the corner with more Nutella than I've seen in my life.<br />
<br />
To run for the New Zealand team, you don't have to hit huge numbers. As a team we worry about not having enough members for a team rather than competing with each other to get on the team. They are a super lovely bunch and have all had their own adventures getting here. That doesn't mean I won't be giving 100% when I am there though. Previously my mind has lost when my body could have carried on. This weekend, I am looking forward to seeing just how far I can push that mind. I ran Transgrancanaria on nothing; there are no limits! Running in circles for 24 hours chatting to friends both old and new; what's not to love?<br />
<br />
So from now until the race we take a positive stance. Repeat this mantra after me; I am amazing, I am amazing, I am so strong, pain is my friend, so strong, super amazing, phenomenally good looking... That should be it. It's bound to work a charm.<br />
<br />
And the tiramisu. Ohhh how I love tiramisu.Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821392229592769245.post-29561948762144910022015-03-15T11:50:00.000+00:002015-04-26T20:22:12.973+01:00Transgrancanaria <div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="12" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7591">
<span abp="13" style="font-family: Arial;">Weak areas in my running:</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="14" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7595">
<span abp="15" style="font-family: Arial;">- descending</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="16" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7599">
<span abp="17" style="font-family: Arial;">- rough terrain</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="18" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7603">
<span abp="19" style="font-family: Arial;">- darkness</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="20" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7607">
<span abp="21" style="font-family: Arial;">- staying awake for 24 hours </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="22" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7611">
<span abp="23" style="font-family: Arial;">- training </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="24" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="27" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7617">
<span abp="28" style="font-family: Arial;">Characteristics of Transgrancanaria </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="29" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7621">
<span abp="30" style="font-family: Arial;">- descending</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="31" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7625">
<span abp="32" style="font-family: Arial;">- rough terrain</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="33" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7629">
<span abp="34" style="font-family: Arial;">- darkness</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="35" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7633">
<span abp="36" style="font-family: Arial;">- staying awake for up to 30 hours</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="37" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7637">
<span abp="38" style="font-family: Arial;">- training</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="39" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7641">
<span abp="40" style="font-family: Arial;">- ascending (positive elevation 8,500m / 27,890 ft) </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<table abp="3028" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3029">
<tr abp="3030"><td abp="3031" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7648">
<a abp="3032" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrwGqPYAgZEwJug8csRLhrlUqyzEwnJ_hGBP_V9PpthWH8SR4fn1vhFHTQp39Y355H4xdf8Bp4z5OU8OSDol5LiIgVwtXI8et2E2eESieuzBme3EHVoBCQQuKP-ClsuIKjYQyiE0MmVU_U/s1600/tgc+bib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3033" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrwGqPYAgZEwJug8csRLhrlUqyzEwnJ_hGBP_V9PpthWH8SR4fn1vhFHTQp39Y355H4xdf8Bp4z5OU8OSDol5LiIgVwtXI8et2E2eESieuzBme3EHVoBCQQuKP-ClsuIKjYQyiE0MmVU_U/s1600/tgc+bib.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="3034"><td abp="3035" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7653">
<span abp="3036" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ANTONIA 0480 - check out the race profile at the bottom of the bib</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table abp="3131" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3132">
<tr abp="3133"><td abp="3134" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7659">
<a abp="3135" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhmBm2g6ulvWAV-Q_Nolx7md23lPPbfufJSApoJQodCEWPO1-ygBspAtee1ODMuEeNgZtDuA5PQk-Faz5wRED8UWFvx4C8EXfz90sPiT_LZeKmNAnrm_zBrtjkc-ow39KjI8sJzfuRjnz/s1600/tgc+profile.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3136" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhmBm2g6ulvWAV-Q_Nolx7md23lPPbfufJSApoJQodCEWPO1-ygBspAtee1ODMuEeNgZtDuA5PQk-Faz5wRED8UWFvx4C8EXfz90sPiT_LZeKmNAnrm_zBrtjkc-ow39KjI8sJzfuRjnz/s1600/tgc+profile.png" height="160" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="3137"><td abp="3138" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7664">
<span abp="3139" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Transgrancanaria race profile (from website)</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="3040" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="3041" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="44" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7669">
<span abp="45" style="font-family: Arial;">Ascending? Did anyone else read that? I like going up hills.
Sounds like a good race. In 2014, when Keith Hughes and the gang of Incredibles
entered I wasn't tempted in the slightest. Way out of my comfort zone. But then
Johnny Fling mentioned the race and practically begged me to come. He's like
that; pushy. A race at the beginning of the year sounded good as I was going a
bit crazy after having had </span><span abp="46" style="font-family: Arial;">2014 off. And by off I mean that I got fat. There was a race in
Cornwall but that's a bit dull. Plus, Gran Canaria is easy to get to. Simples
decision really.</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="47" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="50" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7676">
<span abp="51" style="font-family: Arial;">Upon returning to the nation mid January, there was the small
issue of plantar fasciitis. With this on the mend, I had a new visitor in the
form of ischial bursitis. This visitor stayed, likely because it tore a bit of
bone off. I've always attracted odd sorts. You should see the state of my ex
boyfriends. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="52" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="55" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7682">
<span abp="56" style="font-family: Arial;">No one thought it was a good idea to start, including myself.
But hey, life's for living, not following an injury intervention plan. So to
registration I go, only to have no clue what my number is and to stand in line
for an hour. A man in the line next to me pushes in which sets the tone for how
European men are going to treat me for the first few hours of the race.
Although, just before we start being to kind to the Scottish men, I'll have you
know that Paul Giblin made his mum walk for an hour in new sandals to get to
registration... </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<table abp="3042" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3043">
<tr abp="3044"><td abp="3045" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7689">
<a abp="3046" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyMfmS3ZwBEiAhFh6Aizma3Ozhup1fKzifPinyEzAg4gzQzCR_O9HrodM0tf3h1KKZsKbKMm0L_ijW6Mm_OY_ACqWpTJpBNsCPbzaI8TzclBYjiMPHQmIYp_w0ekusxIn8qTc_taGCWrh/s1600/tgc+queue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3047" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyMfmS3ZwBEiAhFh6Aizma3Ozhup1fKzifPinyEzAg4gzQzCR_O9HrodM0tf3h1KKZsKbKMm0L_ijW6Mm_OY_ACqWpTJpBNsCPbzaI8TzclBYjiMPHQmIYp_w0ekusxIn8qTc_taGCWrh/s1600/tgc+queue.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="3048"><td abp="3049" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7694">
<span abp="3050" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Transgrancanaria race registration</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="57" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="60" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7699">
<span abp="61" style="font-family: Arial;">A week before the race, in an attempt to get myself pumped, I
bought a new red T-shirt. It was actually orange. Who looks good in orange? Not
me. Although initially devastated, I came round to it. Then I'm hit a low blow
when I find that the race shirts are also orange. And we've been given black
visors. My father has got me a black visor for my birthday (don't panic if you
missed it, I accept late gifts and will only hold a slight grudge). Outfit
disaster. This race is not meant to be. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<table abp="3051" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3052">
<tr abp="3053"><td abp="3054" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7706">
<a abp="3055" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT8yIqBRjV36vKBsXgT4jaFKgb-ft8OsvInFrmdKANa8A8ddoHbvkJNQzmmpJqMwOD_mbTE84xa71Tdt7Jzeh6_Q1KSwU8HQ371q9UQ3F6x_Ttn7m0yqfs9YGg9G16eHPEkMq2tWA_Z7M2/s1600/tgc+kit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3056" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT8yIqBRjV36vKBsXgT4jaFKgb-ft8OsvInFrmdKANa8A8ddoHbvkJNQzmmpJqMwOD_mbTE84xa71Tdt7Jzeh6_Q1KSwU8HQ371q9UQ3F6x_Ttn7m0yqfs9YGg9G16eHPEkMq2tWA_Z7M2/s1600/tgc+kit.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="3057"><td abp="3058" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7711">
<span abp="3059" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sorting kit in the sunshine</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1137" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table abp="3060" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3061">
<tr abp="3062"><td abp="3063" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7718">
<a abp="3064" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45x6hPUUPWqEfRJW5PzGffaJdFUf9tuZpVrw4FmVe1H22j9B45CRYJuiRo6Xig1M0XifSk1SbxBUtsbFWpplQZWPE03XSh_c3NoKHIltUA7qxDL-uX_F8Brw6niZTPJWE6UE13gKE7fWW/s1600/tgc+pre+race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="3065" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45x6hPUUPWqEfRJW5PzGffaJdFUf9tuZpVrw4FmVe1H22j9B45CRYJuiRo6Xig1M0XifSk1SbxBUtsbFWpplQZWPE03XSh_c3NoKHIltUA7qxDL-uX_F8Brw6niZTPJWE6UE13gKE7fWW/s1600/tgc+pre+race.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="3066"><td abp="3067" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7723">
<span abp="3068" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Braving the orange</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="62" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="65" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7728">
<span abp="66" style="font-family: Arial;">I bravely decide to run anyway. Heroine. With the race starting
at 11pm I have loads of time to sunbathe and drink too much coffee. Drinking
three litres of Osmo margarita preload probably wasn't the best idea. Let's just
say I spent the day with stomach cramps and a fondness for the bathroom. The
instructions may not have said to drink that much. But hey, what you lack in
training, make up with preload right? The luggage allowance was tight which
means there's only that one outfit option and no stuffing about is required. At
about half eight Johnny Fling picks me up and we drive the hour and a half to
the start in Agaete.</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="67" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="70" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7734">
<span abp="71" style="font-family: Arial;">I worry about my lack of training, the terrain, my injuries and
the casual approach that I have taken. The cut offs will be tickling my bottom
the whole way. Thankfully David Simpson posted a photo the night previously of
himself having some beers. And he was drinking red wine on the plane. Some of
us just roll that way. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="72" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<table abp="2830" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2831">
<tr abp="2832"><td abp="2833" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7743">
<a abp="2834" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrEQJWtsceWr7C_dg-4qwrziIoA3ecdfqKmGgddO6-Yq9zdnrqzkOWFDCsDF93cRcG_FsbiqQfyVVDslAtPzC7E4h8oPjgDWTeYTHMZKE-Y4_bWyFkK7lfQPmjTDLFgSs98AUiuSrAOu2/s1600/tgc+john+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2835" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrEQJWtsceWr7C_dg-4qwrziIoA3ecdfqKmGgddO6-Yq9zdnrqzkOWFDCsDF93cRcG_FsbiqQfyVVDslAtPzC7E4h8oPjgDWTeYTHMZKE-Y4_bWyFkK7lfQPmjTDLFgSs98AUiuSrAOu2/s1600/tgc+john+start.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2836"><td abp="2837" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7748">
<span abp="3069" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pre race lassies</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="75" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7751">
<span abp="76" style="font-family: Arial;">We can hear the start before we see it. A party apparently.
There's quite a crowd and we're not sure how to get in. An official gives us a
wave and we push through. The announcer is saying something excitedly in
Spanish and suddenly there's a load of photographers snapping photos of me. I'm
not sure whether to smile or not so just stare in bewilderment unsure how to
get to the back of the start line I am now facing. I get a shove from behind
and its one the professional female runners. It's her arrival they were
announcing. Those poor photographers; they'll be getting the sack now. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="77" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="80" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7757">
<span abp="81" style="font-family: Arial;">I get herded on a path so that I can get to the back. There's a
load of commotion as the professional runners all come towards me so they can
nip to the front. This would be cool if I knew who they were. I have enough
trouble paying attention to my own life, I've no chance of keeping up with
anyone else's. There was one fella with chick's hair though. Bet he was jealous
of my long braids.<span abp="82" style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="83" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="86" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7764">
<span abp="87" style="font-family: Arial;">Before I enter the starting pen I have to turn on the red light
attached to the rear of my bag. Scott has to do this for his Maraton distance
too. When he asks why he needs to turn it on in broad daylight, he's informed
that it is in case he falls off a cliff. Comforting.<span abp="88" style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="89" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="92" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7771">
<span abp="93" style="font-family: Arial;">Then, with a hoot and a cheer, we start. Antonia versus giants
with poles. I've been told that there is half a mile of flat, then some wide
ascent before a single track ascent. Typically I start slow but I don't want to
be stuck behind a bunch of slow folk going up a hill for two hours so I go for
it. Most people are doing the same. Most have also got their cheating sticks
out already and we've not even started on an incline. The wide track is
stressful as we all push to pass each other. It's a relief when the single
trail starts and we're stuck in position. The pace is comfortable without being
frustrating and other than the occasional stray getting dropped we move up
peacefully. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="92" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table abp="2838" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2839">
<tr abp="2840"><td abp="2841" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7778">
<a abp="2842" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFidnwxXcgldmHBaAhpz20AQvrbVJ7aJzr_ih1aPIch7kTZA2CE52v9AzhFEvrc0aGgffEREcR8P3e4P5dM2r0ZkxlMHdfzew5VlcuhVTw2bFf2ZMGsf65vrJrq3E5SDsYZbktchTPi3vm/s1600/tgc+start+crazy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2843" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFidnwxXcgldmHBaAhpz20AQvrbVJ7aJzr_ih1aPIch7kTZA2CE52v9AzhFEvrc0aGgffEREcR8P3e4P5dM2r0ZkxlMHdfzew5VlcuhVTw2bFf2ZMGsf65vrJrq3E5SDsYZbktchTPi3vm/s1600/tgc+start+crazy.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2844"><td abp="2845" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7783">
<span abp="3070" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Race start excitement</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="92" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
<div abp="7787">
<span abp="98" style="font-family: Arial;">After about two hours we hit the top and the first checkpoint
at Tamadaba, 10km in. Everyone stops and stands by the tables of food. I don't
know what I'm doing so just copy. And I take a piece of orange. Because oranges
are nice. As I continue through the checkpoint a man with a microphone
announces me and wants a quick chat. Who am I to deny a fan? I'm dazed as the
experience is a bit surreal and probably shout New Zealand too loudly in the
microphone when he asks where I'm from as he doesn't recognise my flag. The
rain jacket comes off. It's well warm. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="99" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="102" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7793">
<span abp="103" style="font-family: Arial;">Next we go down a big hill for ages and I spend forever jumping
off the trail to let herds of head torches fly by. I'm pleased I can't see the
drop off the cliffs otherwise I would have clung to a tree and cried until I
could be rescued. One guy skids and slams his head into a boulder. I nip on and
off the trail, trying to run bits without holding anyone up. Courteous runner
of the year award would go to me. At one point there's a rope to get us down a
boulder. I hang on and still manage to scrape down on my arse and lead a line
of head torches the wrong way at the bottom. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="104" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="107" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7799">
<span abp="108" style="font-family: Arial;">There's a drink station which confuses me as its not a
checkpoint. Then I get a break from the fear of constantly having runners
behind me and climb a hill. The view behind is a brilliant string of
head torches. I catch Johnny Fling just before the another checkpoint, about six
hours in. Six hours? I've barely eaten! I strut through the checkpoint like I
own the place... And less confidently back out the other side as I don't know
anyone. There are already runners heaving up on the side of the trails. It's
going to be a long day and night for some of us. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="960">
</div>
<div abp="964">
</div>
<table abp="2846" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2847">
<tr abp="2848"><td abp="2849" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7807">
<a abp="2850" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMYtY5ZHniKyn5Fcscz7Q7i8ISfZH3C0kx3WzbpVoj_klO2ErhOyVezhsK5Wucx2hEW8NpRGGm7v3864Ucg01xKuxvBIMgswHz3vYoReWI7n4lfAOj-FBlIoEBXK4Ffyt2SFFvWhDwddC/s1600/tgc+drinks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2851" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMYtY5ZHniKyn5Fcscz7Q7i8ISfZH3C0kx3WzbpVoj_klO2ErhOyVezhsK5Wucx2hEW8NpRGGm7v3864Ucg01xKuxvBIMgswHz3vYoReWI7n4lfAOj-FBlIoEBXK4Ffyt2SFFvWhDwddC/s1600/tgc+drinks.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2852"><td abp="2853" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7812">
<span abp="3071" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Where am I?</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1147" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="1173" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1174" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjk8kBqAt2QWfSDW_CGL2Z1g1WfT6Xe3lc3n4JM5nKIz68BXyKFTye-ZCGL25T2kNUzAVB8QK-xybZAHaQRLsXYdSQTEdEkUbIEcLJYgYpNlWxw3F5Q6MIbci5n50s1vNitpyh1JDm0PA/s1600/tgc+early+cp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1175" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjk8kBqAt2QWfSDW_CGL2Z1g1WfT6Xe3lc3n4JM5nKIz68BXyKFTye-ZCGL25T2kNUzAVB8QK-xybZAHaQRLsXYdSQTEdEkUbIEcLJYgYpNlWxw3F5Q6MIbci5n50s1vNitpyh1JDm0PA/s1600/tgc+early+cp.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="1147" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="968">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="117" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7822">
<span abp="118" style="font-family: Arial;">It's about 5am. The sun will rise at about 7am is my guess.
Until then, I step aside when going down the hills and get annoyed when others
don't do the same for me going up them. I'll tell you where you can shove those
poles. Before Fontanales at the 44km mark I can hear an announcer and loads of
cheers. Sounds like a fun place to be. But when I get there, nothing. Turns out
the Advanced race (85km) has just started. This is exciting at first as it
means I get to pass a few people going down a hill! It's good for the ego. Off
come the head torches and we all waddle on. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="119" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<table abp="2854" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2855">
<tr abp="2856"><td abp="2857" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7831">
<a abp="2858" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4XyTGh8cYKAQXUDQHf8AVl2OnabIbBmdvDfXJEUxycmvmdzUUPcLZmXtIyqI7b5FfkRvZ7NzsRP2A91MXigl_WxXlmSeCLQEpd74Q9qxgxSx3_RzdJaCLM0Xl4uDQ73UGBObDvil9KHq/s1600/tgc+cp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2859" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4XyTGh8cYKAQXUDQHf8AVl2OnabIbBmdvDfXJEUxycmvmdzUUPcLZmXtIyqI7b5FfkRvZ7NzsRP2A91MXigl_WxXlmSeCLQEpd74Q9qxgxSx3_RzdJaCLM0Xl4uDQ73UGBObDvil9KHq/s1600/tgc+cp.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2860"><td abp="2861" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7836">
<span abp="3072" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fontanales, maybe?</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1153" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="1176" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1177" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BIKr2qjDA0R_oKf_3RRuEhOfrMkYxkjWocp5LhdPwzzUEcEGe1LTIMnplOMOWklB8SUFfnkBBpq-PPIuahhfSeADh9Jva24RVBG9FZHG_8vVLvdbxp25hlvUpIuXw7reFIVTkqTYK2Dk/s1600/tgc+1st+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1178" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BIKr2qjDA0R_oKf_3RRuEhOfrMkYxkjWocp5LhdPwzzUEcEGe1LTIMnplOMOWklB8SUFfnkBBpq-PPIuahhfSeADh9Jva24RVBG9FZHG_8vVLvdbxp25hlvUpIuXw7reFIVTkqTYK2Dk/s1600/tgc+1st+pic.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="1179" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="122" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7844">
<span abp="123" style="font-family: Arial;">There are a few sections of short but brutally steep road which
at one point I see a man crawling up. He's a no poles man like myself. We're
the minority. I'm still out-stomping the pole men though. It's karma for
cheating you see. By the next checkpoint I've lost count of where I am. The
race profile and checkpoint distances are printed on our race numbers so I hold
my arms up and someone points to where we are. Not very far. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="124" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="127" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7850">
<span abp="128" style="font-family: Arial;">I am very hungry. In my bag I've got chews, waffles, gels and
dried fruit. I am not only eating too few of them (I won't get any more until
my only drop bag 80km in) but there's also not much at the checkpoints. The
oranges are the most appetizing due to the heat but my breakfast is well
overdue. There are chunks of banana but rather than grabbing five chunks like I
should, I have a tendency to just grab one or two. Carrie Craig has thankfully
warned me not to take one of the jelly cubes as they are actually meat. This leaves
stale bread as the only alternative. I shove a piece in the outside of my pack
and spend the next mile dropping crumbs like Hansel and Gretel. Save me. Follow
the trail... </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="129" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="7854">
<span abp="3073" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<table abp="3074" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="3075">
<tr abp="3076"><td abp="3077" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7860">
<a abp="3078" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZE2ZVOJlfoPGuso-qC3Ypd30js_8JpdS0Xa_R2jordLSJDzXWoxQSDEvEQSf2evKHqrGmMjL8RACe1qKnUwe0FbWlkIF0qviwdWU1Vk4fc9bT67ZE3KXBuciUuTYc3ivDXASDQzv8zPq/s1600/tgc+blurry+ant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3079" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img abp="3080" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZE2ZVOJlfoPGuso-qC3Ypd30js_8JpdS0Xa_R2jordLSJDzXWoxQSDEvEQSf2evKHqrGmMjL8RACe1qKnUwe0FbWlkIF0qviwdWU1Vk4fc9bT67ZE3KXBuciUuTYc3ivDXASDQzv8zPq/s1600/tgc+blurry+ant.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></span></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="3081"><td abp="3082" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7866">
<span abp="3083" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still enjoying this walking / running thing</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="7868">
<span abp="3084" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div abp="2976">
</div>
<div abp="2977" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="2978" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtb93o4A5g9aF1Q-b4dLUfiMADhJtg_WJUvTLg2LrvQpnO4L_ux6rfOScBN8db3Bo8q2ppkDS_wyAyjUIIYZyPTmHFKNb149mq-xsZf7pSFECTsAGH4q-wov2A6-nKFfNXqqLr-HjZqVt/s1600/tgc+grass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="2979" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtb93o4A5g9aF1Q-b4dLUfiMADhJtg_WJUvTLg2LrvQpnO4L_ux6rfOScBN8db3Bo8q2ppkDS_wyAyjUIIYZyPTmHFKNb149mq-xsZf7pSFECTsAGH4q-wov2A6-nKFfNXqqLr-HjZqVt/s1600/tgc+grass.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="129" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="129" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="132" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7878">
<span abp="133" style="font-family: Arial;">With a belly full of a whooping two pieces of bread, I head
strongly up the next collection of hills. I pass Johnny Fling, who had passed
me earlier flying down a hill. The runners in the Advanced race are annoying me
now as they are clogging the trail as they struggle up the hills and don't step
aside. Some of us have been going for a while now and don't appreciate the
extra work having to pass you and your poles. People are surprised at my lack
of poles. There are pointing gestures and smiles to indicate this. But I don't
need poles. I've got talent instead. Probably in the form of mega thighs and a
Beyoncé bottom.</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="134" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="137" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7884">
<span abp="138" style="font-family: Arial;">I tackle the switchbacks with a Flemish runner, one of the few
runners who speaks to me. Language is quite a barrier with most. With each
checkpoint I get more and more confused as to where I am, even though the marshals
are very helpful with their pointing to various points on the race profile.
It's important to know if there's 7km to the next checkpoint or 15km as that's
the difference between 1. 5 hours and three hours. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="139" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="142" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7890">
<span abp="143" style="font-family: Arial;">A cup is part of the compulsory kit. I didn't put too much
thought into it and packed Scott and I the only plastic cups we had in the
house. They happened to be red plastic cups from my hen do. Complete with
attached straws. Yep, straws. And if you are privileged enough to have a straw
attached to your cup, one must use that straw. And when the other runners
looked at me while I did so I knew it was with a mixture of admiration and
jealousy. Class and commitment. When I come in to the checkpoint I take my cup
out of my bag and get it filled with cola. Sickly sweet cola full of sugar. Or
so I thought. Apparently it was sugar free. Ahhh, what? No wonder I soon start
to feel terrible. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="144" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="147" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7896">
<span abp="148" style="font-family: Arial;">I'm a bit off a daydreamer. I seem to have dreamed that I've
got about 45km to go. This is a gross misjudgement. I'm hanging on for some
decent food. I really need to get a substantial amount of fluid in too. It's
now something like midday and although the sun is not beating down due to the
clouds it is still very warm. I take my foot off the throttle. I need to slow down.
Johnny Fling comes flying by. Only because I slowed down obviously. I see a
sign which says 60km to go. Are they having a laugh? My mental breakdown
begins. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="149" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="152" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7902">
<span abp="153" style="font-family: Arial;">I stumble into a checkpoint and then sulk up a hill. My Osmo
sachets are finished. It's a long race to be self supported and hard to judge
supplies when I'm so new to this. My vision is totally shot and I am starting
to get really emotional. The scenery is stunning but that just pisses me off. I
can't be bothered taking a photo. My lens is covered in sticky cola and chews
anyway. Bring on Garanon. I spend the section visualising wobbling over the
finish line, bursting into tears and being rushed into an ambulance. Drama
queen. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="152" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table abp="2866" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2867">
<tr abp="2868"><td abp="2869" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7909">
<a abp="2870" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEelZXZWe0VQDpVENUJrv0pr2oRtfpHvQGsOysu__dZsjm8mKmb6ckvtlFilhLH89Fwu4-cAOC6RmK8Rjhiq_KcIcsSKrxfhTM-wIlSk7TIHF3KGN46flYibUJgtnb8FoMQ7s0C6DAAdIT/s1600/tgc+village.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2871" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEelZXZWe0VQDpVENUJrv0pr2oRtfpHvQGsOysu__dZsjm8mKmb6ckvtlFilhLH89Fwu4-cAOC6RmK8Rjhiq_KcIcsSKrxfhTM-wIlSk7TIHF3KGN46flYibUJgtnb8FoMQ7s0C6DAAdIT/s1600/tgc+village.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2872"><td abp="2873" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7914">
<span abp="3085" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tejeda, maybe?</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="2805" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="2818" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="2819" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVOVkIMA2fhUsdGR5eeLL5FWNH8h-0ZBM3VTe-A-JrBC2T8nrqdlsUYUeGWdJlSHR2eivneizVbIR8j8TsI_WFNig2L-lC8g6kn-m32jZSzXBgibb0Lh-YcsI94FCzdva_tqCE_ZmTAKd/s1600/tgc+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="2820" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVOVkIMA2fhUsdGR5eeLL5FWNH8h-0ZBM3VTe-A-JrBC2T8nrqdlsUYUeGWdJlSHR2eivneizVbIR8j8TsI_WFNig2L-lC8g6kn-m32jZSzXBgibb0Lh-YcsI94FCzdva_tqCE_ZmTAKd/s1600/tgc+view.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="152" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table abp="2874" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2875">
<tr abp="2876"><td abp="2877" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7925">
<a abp="2878" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRf0LPUCryd_gjQVPRyI-SryARGaePWUEVDsreod9muYaD-lxQ1b37X-hM_zRuYpO4dnLyIbluA-y1eZTFH4H2IXHd2C7pM-ObG5Oy8UVIParzdsZKQNWZloBXPfaYkboyaLMsr2RmdJYv/s1600/tgc+woods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2879" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRf0LPUCryd_gjQVPRyI-SryARGaePWUEVDsreod9muYaD-lxQ1b37X-hM_zRuYpO4dnLyIbluA-y1eZTFH4H2IXHd2C7pM-ObG5Oy8UVIParzdsZKQNWZloBXPfaYkboyaLMsr2RmdJYv/s1600/tgc+woods.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2880"><td abp="2881" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7930">
<span abp="3086" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Trekking through the woods</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="152" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="154" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="157" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7937">
<span abp="158" style="font-family: Arial;">As we reach the top of a hill there is a track that veers
right. We'll be taking that soon but first there is a cruel rocky detour to
Roque Nublo. On my way up I throw myself at John who is headed down. I waffle
something incoherent but my face says it all. I'm in a bad way.</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="157" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="7940" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div abp="157" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="162" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7943">
<span abp="163" style="font-family: Arial;">Eventually, although miles too late, Garanon appears. My jog is
slow but slow I jog, weaving between the wooden cabins. There's loads of
support here, with people screaming out my name as it's written on my number.
As I reach the door of the temple that is the checkpoint a man cheers and gives
me the thumbs up. I burst into tears. To my right are the drop bags. A man is
having his kit checked. I have all my compulsory kit but I can't handle
conversation right now and my fine motor skills have gone kaput so I avoid that
table. I line up for my pasta and stumble to a camp chair. People and kit are
everywhere. No one is in a hurry.</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="7946">
<span abp="3088" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<table abp="2890" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2891">
<tr abp="2892"><td abp="2893" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7952">
<a abp="2894" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZUTuvnZBNNnhv6Bk-ITECllA8Q_AkodcLtCIsu81IjgWpZYNuv9DNhwT8xdht0iKfs5crxS-aozO7Cu8bJQXvSUhnLdOia_pEauv9Fu4_NmUV9tAST6xjZwJZ_RlRFDg3TRAJYAWpMFOK/s1600/tgc+garanon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3089" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img abp="3090" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZUTuvnZBNNnhv6Bk-ITECllA8Q_AkodcLtCIsu81IjgWpZYNuv9DNhwT8xdht0iKfs5crxS-aozO7Cu8bJQXvSUhnLdOia_pEauv9Fu4_NmUV9tAST6xjZwJZ_RlRFDg3TRAJYAWpMFOK/s1600/tgc+garanon.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></span></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2896"><td abp="2897" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7958">
<span abp="3091" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Garanon casualties</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="7960">
<span abp="3092" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div abp="1204">
</div>
<div abp="1205" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="1206" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhpLcgiETM7hokyEswEZOUsFvyHQeNv_Wu-mS0dFb7TjD15WBJQ9OmhUk9Ip67oxFLuTB1EhW2Ju76nZ5In7qsnpvAsQvFRBWdZ4zT-XmrxHCQUhx8JtRSXL8KGoH7wC4i6933YWXmXAA/s1600/tgc+garanon+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img abp="1207" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhpLcgiETM7hokyEswEZOUsFvyHQeNv_Wu-mS0dFb7TjD15WBJQ9OmhUk9Ip67oxFLuTB1EhW2Ju76nZ5In7qsnpvAsQvFRBWdZ4zT-XmrxHCQUhx8JtRSXL8KGoH7wC4i6933YWXmXAA/s1600/tgc+garanon+2.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="164" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="167" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7970">
<span abp="168" style="font-family: Arial;">I manage to eat over half my pasta competently before I fall
asleep and fall off my chair. I must have slid very delicately off as no one
seems to have noticed. I am conscious not to draw any further attention to
myself as I don't want anyone questioning my mental state and ability to
continue. I lay down on the floor for a quick kip. You can never rule out a sleep
with me in a run. I don't have a good record for staying awake.</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="169" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7974">
<o:p abp="170"><span abp="171" style="font-family: Arial;"> <table abp="2898" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2899">
<tr abp="2900"><td abp="2901" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7981">
<a abp="2902" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYeUZ-1s0p1NrasUm5hncwug4l5AQu7eD6cRdYRYb0HKj7MA49S7oRfwJSa9f5WpBZPwnX_2yvKXtsX4ua_gxGnFYnasOmiB0_TV2KgsvT4FIP5F7Jn3CGyXOppoGPU5s68zOgMjnqrcfv/s1600/tgc+sleep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2903" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYeUZ-1s0p1NrasUm5hncwug4l5AQu7eD6cRdYRYb0HKj7MA49S7oRfwJSa9f5WpBZPwnX_2yvKXtsX4ua_gxGnFYnasOmiB0_TV2KgsvT4FIP5F7Jn3CGyXOppoGPU5s68zOgMjnqrcfv/s1600/tgc+sleep.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2904"><td abp="2905" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="7986">
<span abp="3093" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A sleep does wonders for the appearance</span> </div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></o:p></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="172" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7990">
<span abp="173" style="font-family: Arial;">After a while I decide that it's leave or bust and bust I will
not. For some reason it has got suddenly cold. I am worried that it is my body
shutting down on me but thankfully others seem to be putting on extra layers
too. Antonia! A voice calls from the haze to my right. Incredible; my name is
not even showing. It's John's dad, Matt, come to save me from this blurry
nightmare I am currently in. Noanie is down at the car park having had word from
John that I wasn't looking my usual gorgeous self. I get fed Red Bull, sugared
nuts and a banana and once Noanie is happy with the intake I sway on. Once I
leave, John's parents finish the Red Bull and get a better buzz than I did. At
this point John's parents worry that I won't finish and although Noanie tells
them I'll be fine she later confesses that if she had been a marshal as opposed
to support she would have pulled me out. The lesson from that story? Always
hide from the marshals. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="174" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="177" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="7996">
<span abp="178" style="font-family: Arial;">Ascents are good to me. I've got a hill climbers bum. I thank
the chocolate. Some say that what goes up must come down. I'd prefer it if what
went up got to enjoy the view with a beer and then get a helicopter lift back
down. Hey, maybe I could even get a shot at flying. I will be honest and admit
that I found the start of this incline rather steep. There may have been some
hands on knees action. But don't tell anyone; it'll ruin my reputation. I
realise that after 16 hours I've only been to the bathroom once. I may have a
dehydration issue. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="179" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="182" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8002">
<span abp="183" style="font-family: Arial;">The descent off the hill is cobbled. Then there's uneven slate.
I worry that Scott had to run down this and hope he didn't break anything. I
walk down after being denied a marshal's bicycle. The rocks are constantly
jabbing into my blisters. I am gobsmacked when I see the 40km to go sign. I've
only done 4km since I left Garanon. The trail is not as crammed now and a wee
bit lonely as those who pass do so quickly. They want to know what's wrong
since I am walking down the hill. My vision is blurry and I fancy a nap but
other than that I am ok. They see my blue bib. The bib of the hardcore folk.
And they show me some respect. Not by bowing as I would have liked though...</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="182" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="8005" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table abp="8179" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="8180">
<tr abp="8181"><td abp="8182" style="text-align: center;"><a abp="8183" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPSi9VNRBBRciz70qut7dGRcBBMO0Gksr3y7NcBTEj2bowUpHeGGZuEI0mdS9OQg-k7aj7wKTL5u0PV0GVY3dm1YgkjBDB3WgIw0HGW2x4xTJEpoMQ4mLwqzig6DXq9VYbGKefOCrlxIP/s1600/tbg+scott+cobbles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="8184" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPSi9VNRBBRciz70qut7dGRcBBMO0Gksr3y7NcBTEj2bowUpHeGGZuEI0mdS9OQg-k7aj7wKTL5u0PV0GVY3dm1YgkjBDB3WgIw0HGW2x4xTJEpoMQ4mLwqzig6DXq9VYbGKefOCrlxIP/s1600/tbg+scott+cobbles.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr abp="8185"><td abp="8186" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span abp="8187" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cobbles when Scott went down</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="1236">
</div>
<table abp="2914" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2915">
<tr abp="2916"><td abp="2917" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8013">
<a abp="2918" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9Yl8-gbruMj2-d2vqyZwnudNrNoMD7LYTOBVyfJBr8ZfaOQoWo9Z0-E6tRnP9Yen8xbmGioIJ0F_ezcmZN93N8Po2_nOAFQ8kipT_-VC8b6yDFYGi-5OP4z5yXHlCzftfZTSh7GAVPQf/s1600/tgc+cobbles+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2919" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9Yl8-gbruMj2-d2vqyZwnudNrNoMD7LYTOBVyfJBr8ZfaOQoWo9Z0-E6tRnP9Yen8xbmGioIJ0F_ezcmZN93N8Po2_nOAFQ8kipT_-VC8b6yDFYGi-5OP4z5yXHlCzftfZTSh7GAVPQf/s1600/tgc+cobbles+2.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2920"><td abp="2921" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8018">
<span abp="3095" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And when I went down</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="182" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
<div abp="8022">
<span abp="188" style="font-family: Arial;">And then, emerging in the distance, is a miracle. People. I am
catching other people on this treacherous descent. I ask them what is wrong. It
turns out that it is a group of four guys leading a blind man with a pole. They
are part of the TransAbility race. Massive thumbs up to them. A massive shame
on me. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="189" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="192" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8028">
<span abp="193" style="font-family: Arial;">Noanie has arranged for the café at the next checkpoint to make
me a coffee. I have it sitting in. She's told them my name and showed them my
picture. I am like an international celebrity to them. If you are next in
Tunte, ask them about me. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="192" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table abp="2922" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2923">
<tr abp="2924"><td abp="2925" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8035">
<a abp="2926" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZzwCiESh01HDcOobGUh49_VB68eUWk3djXARHtisH45Pa04P_fUVC7o415NAfkSqGyztBR9OlI5DydlKvd6sGhaLBh_6tM69aFhXtlTnh27J0Fkn2jREXjx0HriH6AKbbdraL_2IS3_R/s1600/tgc+smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2927" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZzwCiESh01HDcOobGUh49_VB68eUWk3djXARHtisH45Pa04P_fUVC7o415NAfkSqGyztBR9OlI5DydlKvd6sGhaLBh_6tM69aFhXtlTnh27J0Fkn2jREXjx0HriH6AKbbdraL_2IS3_R/s1600/tgc+smile.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2928"><td abp="2929" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8040">
<span abp="3096" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tunte coffee makes me happy!</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="192" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="835">
<div abp="8045">
<span abp="198" style="font-family: Arial;">Two checkpoints to go! How hard can it be? Something like 31km.
Don't work out how many hours that is going to take, that'll be depressing.
Walk up hills, jog the flats, quads hurt on the downhills. It's all pretty
straightforward. Which is clearly boring. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="199" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="202" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8051">
<span abp="203" style="font-family: Arial;">Sunset is about 7pm so I hit the disaster zone at night. If I'd
known the course I would have given all that I had to get past this zone before
dark. It's a rockfall descent. Loose rocks. Big rocks. Small rocks. Sharp
rocks. Rocks that are laughing at me. They call it scree like it is something
fun. It is not fun. There are no reflective strips to mark the way. The first
half was very well marked so the guy doing this section clearly preferred the
local pub. I'm having trouble with my head torch. It's making everything look
white. A runner suggests I hold it. This helps although having one hand engaged
does not help when falling on such scree-ful rocks. There are some tears. There
is a lot of path guessing. There are some errors made. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="204" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="207" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8057">
<span abp="208" style="font-family: Arial;">I am lost. By myself. In the dark. On the side of a cliff.
Surrounded by rocks. After running for about 20 hours. I can see other head
torches. They are not near me. I try to get to them but am well off course. I
constantly fall on my bum. There are bruises for days to prove it. Hysteria has
set in. Do I stay still and hope someone finds me in the morning? It's not cold
but I might get quite cold if I stop moving. Do I keep trying to get down? It's
likely I'll fall off and break something and not be found until morning. It's
an easy story to skim over now but at the time I totally thought I was going to
die. Try being rational after that length of time on your feet! </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="209" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="212" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8063">
<span abp="213" style="font-family: Arial;">After much howling and calling a group of Italians rescued me.
I bawled that I had been trying to get down for hours. They shone their
head torches before me and were forever patient as I tripped and nose dove my
way down. Without Carlos R and his buddies there is no way I would have
finished the race. We walk into the next checkpoint with 17km to go. I am shell
shocked. I send Scott a text so that he doesn't panic that I have taken so long
on the last section. He says he'll head to the finish line. Not yet! I'm still
four hours away from the finish!</span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="214" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="217" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8069">
<span abp="218" style="font-family: Arial;">Carlos R asks if I want to walk to the next checkpoint with his
gang. I very much do so. I cannot function on my own. So we speed walk the next
section. Thankfully I started treadmill walking last week. Yes, I looked like a
tosser. I struggle to stay awake as I spend two hours staring at the light of
my head torch on the back of their legs. I worry we're pushing the 30 hour cut
off. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="219" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="222" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8075">
<span abp="223" style="font-family: Arial;">Finally, the homeward stretch. Scott text me to say that the
next part is easy to navigate. I could walk and still make the cut off. Phew.
We're joined by a Swedish guy who speaks more English so keeps me company until
the dry river bed outside Melanores. It is now after midnight and my body
decides to get a bleeding nose. How inconvenient. Baby wipes are not as
effective as tissues. I hang about, bot wanting anyone to snap a photo of me
with blood everywhere. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="224" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="227" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8081">
<span abp="228" style="font-family: Arial;">Whip up some steps and we're on the flat. A cruel wee jaunt
along the beach and the homeward stretch. It felt like there were hardly any
runners left but I am passing loads as they are walking into the finish. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="227" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table abp="2930" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2931">
<tr abp="2932"><td abp="2933" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8088">
<a abp="2934" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3BEitNkct_dXZyZ_lhVhlNDeLLPbYiwG84uc1wB6ahzapmFRN0J3kH3W_8Z5ter2vBs0jsP_z4ipMwDAbUEcq4QSMgyGsnVQKldOUph-Xi2jQR_mmkUeo_s7hs9bFOTylARcFXZkNEZIx/s1600/tgc+scott+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span abp="3097" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img abp="3098" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3BEitNkct_dXZyZ_lhVhlNDeLLPbYiwG84uc1wB6ahzapmFRN0J3kH3W_8Z5ter2vBs0jsP_z4ipMwDAbUEcq4QSMgyGsnVQKldOUph-Xi2jQR_mmkUeo_s7hs9bFOTylARcFXZkNEZIx/s1600/tgc+scott+beach.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></span></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2936"><td abp="2937" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8094">
<span abp="3099" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scott's beach finish. He had the pleasure of doing the last few miles with a Spanish friend.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="227" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<table abp="2938" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2939">
<tr abp="2940"><td abp="2941" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8102">
<a abp="2942" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5fX_AfeFkxnzTELWIEWCo77vYvrjSWz5dKmghyphenhyphenRLjBQPwp31_GZsBfp5MYoHqbgT0D1rI9BkzVbnhNnbW7n-4XIZLXxqruB0mGo6qufzfqiXeJnLT5X5q4i7WbCvYqDKJDGQ7tgM8WS9/s1600/tgc+finish+road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2943" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5fX_AfeFkxnzTELWIEWCo77vYvrjSWz5dKmghyphenhyphenRLjBQPwp31_GZsBfp5MYoHqbgT0D1rI9BkzVbnhNnbW7n-4XIZLXxqruB0mGo6qufzfqiXeJnLT5X5q4i7WbCvYqDKJDGQ7tgM8WS9/s1600/tgc+finish+road.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2944"><td abp="2945" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8107">
<span abp="3100" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Grinding it out along the road</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="229" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8111">
<span abp="233" style="font-family: Arial;">My in-laws have made it to the finish for me and they started
on the celebrations early. There is the finishing arch. I've been visualising
this for days (literally) and so I just go for it; triple somersault, backwards
walkover and a cartwheel to finish it off. The finishing video didn't quite
capture it but I definitely remember it. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<table abp="2946" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2947">
<tr abp="2948"><td abp="2949" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8118">
<a abp="2950" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiub_zdxa-k79tyYkZdbTGxeFtv_a0dG9XpL3sQ8w72VfTaBC5Mbz1eyOOUS477WKnkAZ07Itoq_K03m9UR8p026OyK0vhyphenhyphensJr_Nhg-5TgZ8rMlTj19rcpbuYpULxym9o7aKCMRpSFsMXfA/s1600/tgc+finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2951" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiub_zdxa-k79tyYkZdbTGxeFtv_a0dG9XpL3sQ8w72VfTaBC5Mbz1eyOOUS477WKnkAZ07Itoq_K03m9UR8p026OyK0vhyphenhyphensJr_Nhg-5TgZ8rMlTj19rcpbuYpULxym9o7aKCMRpSFsMXfA/s1600/tgc+finish.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2952"><td abp="2953" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8123">
<span abp="3101" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finish line! Note the cartwheel.</span> </div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="237" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8128">
<span abp="238" style="font-family: Arial;">The next day I find out my time and think that they've got it
an hour too quick. It's only when my sister sends me a screenshot of me coming
under the finish line (mid-flip obviously) in 25 hours and 50 minutes that I
believe it. I was very confused when I looked at the clock when I finished,
thinking it said two hours something. Pleased to have finally gone more than 24
hours, even if I still required a nap! With a drop out rate of 43% I am proud to be a finisher. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="239" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="242" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8134">
<span abp="243" style="font-family: Arial;">Mission completed. Tackling a race outside of my comfort zone
has been a goal for a while. If you like hiking up hills and tearing down them
then this race is for you. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="244" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="247" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8140">
<span abp="248" style="font-family: Arial;">Three days later with the swelling subsided, my two besties
plantar fasciitis and ischial bursitis have returned with a vengeance despite
not bothering me the slightest in the race. The body huh? It's a confusing
thing. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="249" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="252" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<div abp="8146">
<span abp="253" style="font-family: Arial;">I need to thank my mind, for helping me get through the race
after not running for a month and not doing any work on hills. Thanks to my
in-laws who ran after me in the days surrounding and let me have the room in
the villa which required no stairs after I finished. Thank you to everyone who
screamed out ANTONIA in beautiful Spanish accents as I waddled past. Your looks
of concern will not be forgotten. </span></div>
</div>
<div abp="252" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table abp="2954" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody abp="2955">
<tr abp="2956"><td abp="2957" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8153">
<a abp="2958" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7HT724esYMGywl96PaUY_6JooMa-ld7WfNg2CQcMpfDp8khPlIf9my1iEKaK95oKLaAxf9VGX4Vbtgst71WvHMyMV3p6ADzYkB6wEIteUKkIpm6m6p233zhW-7sVTEOdsnnJIjHR0wML/s1600/tgc+outside+expo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img abp="2959" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7HT724esYMGywl96PaUY_6JooMa-ld7WfNg2CQcMpfDp8khPlIf9my1iEKaK95oKLaAxf9VGX4Vbtgst71WvHMyMV3p6ADzYkB6wEIteUKkIpm6m6p233zhW-7sVTEOdsnnJIjHR0wML/s1600/tgc+outside+expo.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr abp="2960"><td abp="2961" class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div abp="8158">
<span abp="3102" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Expo babes</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div abp="252" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="254" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="257" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="260" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="263" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
<div abp="266" class="normal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div abp="835">
</div>
Antoniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575754995864080104noreply@blogger.com4Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain27.9202202 -15.54743729999995627.4714067 -16.192884299999957 28.3690337 -14.901990299999955