I don’t run road events anymore but Brathay Windermere Marathon was an exception because a year ago it was my first marathon and I wanted to come back and do it again for sentimental reasons. As far as road marathons go, I would say that this is one of the best, with plenty of inclines to keep it interesting. With only two weeks until my 105 mile run up in Scotland, I did not want to trash myself too much, but on the other hand I was getting a bit too over confident with my strategy and timings and wanted to remember how it feels when it all goes wrong during a run. My plan was simple, to run it too fast from the start and see what happens. I also ended up eating too little and getting dehydrated which was not part of the plan but it all helped to make this run go horrible wrong in the latter half.
I got up at 3.40am and set off at 4am so that I could get to the event when registration opened. The marathon did not start till 10.30am, but I wanted to relax and soak up the atmosphere. After a short briefing we all followed a group of drummers down to the start, which gave a really good starting atmosphere. I found myself very close to the front of the thousand or so runners and slowly made my way back a few rows. The starter gun went off and gave me a shock as I was still looking round the crowd, so I quickly turned and started running with the masses. Immediately I pulled a muscle in my back but found it only annoying and it was not affecting my pace. I set a pace of around 7 minute miles for the first mile then slowed a little on the hills so that I was averaging just under 8 minute miles. In my previous Windermere Marathon I set off at an average of 10 minute miles. With no other targets to aim for, I just ticked off the miles.
By mile 5 I had averaged 7.39 minute miles and was feeling good. It was slightly overcast and I was not overheating, but I could tell it was going to get warmer. I was carrying some water and rationed it to last about 10 miles with a couple of drinks from the aid stations along route. I also ate a small cereal bar of 100 calories, every 5 miles, along with a few chunks of Kendal mint cake from the aid stations. In next 5 miles I had averaged 7.50 minute miles, so I had slipped a little on pace but was still running steady. It was about 12.5 miles when I reached the bottom of the lake and left the quiet back roads for the busy A592 along the East side of the lake. I have to admit that I was not enjoying this part as much because of the heavy traffic just inches away but it was not as busy as last year and there were no problems, only encouragement from all the passing drivers. I pushed myself on and covered the next 5 miles in an average of 8.19 minute miles.
It was between mile 15 and 16 that I noticed that I was very hungry and thirsty, and my pace also started to slow. It was obvious that I was going to crash and burn really soon and had no food or water to stop it. I continued to push on but started finding the up-hills a struggle. I covered the next 5 miles in an average of 9.03 minute miles. The only food left was Kendal mint cake at the aid stations but I could not stomach it anymore, so I went without any more food. Not only was I tired, but I was starting to hurt now. The pulled muscle in my back was intensifying after a quiet period and I had a strong pain in my side, which at the time I thought was a stitch, but now I think it may have been my reoccurring pain in my abs. For the final 6 miles I lost the will to push the pace and decided to slow it down. I had achieved my goal of pushing myself to crash and burn and there was no point in causing too much damage for my 105 miler. I ran, plodded and walked my way for the next 6 miles, checking my watch every 10 sections to see if I was any closer to the end. I finally reached mile 25 and covered the last 5 miles in an average of 11.09 minute miles which is a good thing as I intend on starting out on my 105 miler at a similar pace and got a good idea how fast I should be going without the help of my Garmin watch telling me. The pain in my side was becoming unbearable and the only thing keeping me going was that I knew that walking was going to make it last longer. I covered the last mile in an average of 12.10 minute miles to finish in 3 hours 54 minutes 52 seconds, only 48 seconds off my best marathon time which was at the New Forest Marathon and 46 minutes better than my previous attempt at Windermere Marathon.
I recovered really quick after finishing and found that after getting changed and walking around for 10 minutes, all the lactic acid had gone from my legs and I felt fresh again. I spent the next 3 hours watching the remaining runners crossing the finish line only missing the last two as I had a long drive back. There were a number of runners who showed great emotion for overcoming their personal challenges and it reminded me of what this is all about.
So what have I learned for my 105 miler? Pacing is key, and I am going to have to go out slow from the start. If I had ran the first 15 miles at 9 minute miles I would have probably finished without crashing and would have finished in the same time but without the suffering. I also reminded myself that I have to keep eating and drinking all the time, starting at the start line. My upper body always seems to let me down recently, so I will need to strengthen that up a bit more. I will re-examine my game plan for my 105 miler and maybe slow my pace down a bit more, spending more time to enjoy my surrounding and less time looking at my feet. I will also make sure that I am going to fully stocked up with food and water so that I will never run out. For now I am going to protein and carb overload for the next two weeks to recover and be ready for the big one.
Monday, 17 May 2010
Saturday, 1 May 2010
Mileage and Training Review
With only a month until my first 100 mile run I have looked back at the mileage for the previous 8 months to try and reflect on how my running and training schedule has developed. I crunched the numbers and made some easier to read graphs, only to discover that what I have actually ran is different to what I thought I ran. I don’t know how I feel about my finding but I don’t think that continuing my current training schedule is the most efficient course of action. I think that in order to make more progress I need to make some changes.
I have put together a .pdf document with some graphs and included some thoughts I have about what I see.
Mileage Analysis.pdf
I have put together a .pdf document with some graphs and included some thoughts I have about what I see.
Mileage Analysis.pdf
Monday, 26 April 2010
Highland Fling Race
I have been looking forward to this event for a long time, almost a year, which may not seem like much but I have only known that ultra events existed for the same length of time. The website said that the entry forms would be posted some time after the West Highland Way Race 2009 and I checked the website daily (and I mean every single day, sometimes twice a day) for a long time before finally getting a chance to send my entry form in days before they were posted on the web. Because of my excitement for this event, my blog entry is extremely long so I apologise in advance.
After escaping a stomach bug for the Compton Challenge, it finally got me and with only two weeks until the Fling I spent 3 days and 3 all nighters camped out on the toilet. I was so weak that I just sat shivering, too weak to do much. I finally got out for a 6 mile run, nearly quitting at mile 1, but progressed through the remaining week up to a steady 10 mile run and a 2 miler two days before the event. I felt good again and my injuries were only whispering. I had no concerns about the run but I had some worries about the strategy that I have devised a day before the event, which was to ditch my 15L backpack with 2L bladder, waterproofs, mountains of food, mp3 player, spare toilet roll, spare socks, map, kitchen sink etc.... Instead I was going to wear a small waist pouch, wear an ultra thin wind stopper that I could tie around my waist, and carry a handheld for water. It should not have concerned me as there were ample drop bag locations where my little parcels full of goodies would be waiting for me. In the end, going light was a good strategy that I would do again.
I had decided to say in the Premier Inn at Milngavie for the night before and after the event because of the 6 hour drive. I planned on getting up early and trying to say hello to John Kynaston as I have been following his blog on almost a daily basis and it has been one of the biggest things that has kept me motivated through the rough patches. Unfortunately, I woke a bit too late and would have missed his start by minutes. I figured he would be finished and long gone before I arrived at the finish but luckily he was still there.... more on that later. I arrived with a good hour before my start at 8am and spent some time soaking up the atmosphere. We finally headed to the famous underpass where it all starts and I shuffled from foot to foot on the line between the sub 12 hours sign which was my goal, finish good and finish strong was my thinking.
20 seconds, 10 seconds, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, go. We were off, I had no idea where to go as I have never been on any of the West Highland Way and I had no map. I set a pace that I felt comfortable with and could breathe 4 steps in and 4 steps out. The high street flashed by and we were through Allander Park before I could comprehend that I had started. I continued to just follow the line of runners through Mugdock Woods where I fell in behind a group of runners, two of whom I would continue to follow for the next 18 miles. I do not tend to socialise much when running or much in general but I enjoy the company when running. Out of Mugdock Woods, passed Scroggy Hill and on past Craigallian Loch. My breathing had switched back to my regular 3 steps in and 3 steps out. It was great running up to Dumgoyach Hill at around 5.5 miles but the next 4 miles was on a dismantled railway line and I always find them harder to run on due to the uniformity and straightness of their profile. As far as this one goes, it was well established with vegetation and better than most I have run on. During this section my left knee pain returned, first on the inside then moving to the lower right where it lingered. At the end of the track there was a road section and a small field crossing before reaching Drymen at around mile 12, in 1 hour 47 minutes, where the first timing station and water refill was located.
I still felt great and was appreciating not having a very heavy backpack on. I would recommend it to anyone doing this event. The next section headed into Queens Elizabeth Forest which is a forest still managed for timber. I spent most of this time remembering my forestry education that I have locked away in my brain but alas have resigned myself to the fact that the only outcome has been a degree certificate that one day I may need to be used as emergency toilet paper. The group I was running behind was now down to only two and as we left the forest I got my first proper views of Conic Hill. After reading many blogs and accounts of previous races I was unsure what the terrain and accents would be like. After seeing Conic Hill I was undaunted as many runs in the Dark Peak and Yorkshire have given me a longing for hills (I would not have said that at mile 40 though). After crossing the Burn of Mar the accent started and I only ran if there was a flat section and walked the lot. The two runners in front became one and I walked to the crest before taking about 10 running leaps down the other side and feeling the pain returning in my right abs. I was annoyed because it had stopped me in my tracking in previous events, but fortunately when I slowed down it reduced to a mild irritation. I lost the runner in front but would see him again later at around mile 30. I was relieved when I made it to the bottom with only a slight pain in my left knee and only an aching pain in my abs. I could see runners in front and followed them in to Balmaha car park, the first drop bag point at around 20 miles. As I approached, someone asked for my race number in a very urgent manner and I got all flustered asking if he could repeat the questions a couple of times. I found out that marshals were situated in front of the drop bags to shout the number so the bags are ready for a speedy collection. I am so used to the LDWA runs where you have to wait patiently for the marshal to finish a conversation then proceed to have a conversation with them yourself for the next 5 minutes before finally punching your tally and remembering that you are supposed to be running. I sat down and ate the contents of my parcel. So far I have ate three cereal bars, one every 5 miles and now I ate a bag of crisps, 550ml of coke, a pot of rice pudding, downed an Ensure Plus and reloaded my pouch with a cereal bar and Mars bar. I thanked the marshals before leaving for their amazing effort and I could see the enthusiasm they held for the event.
As I started walking out of the car park I got a shock to bump into Jez, which gave me a boost, and we talked as I walked to the road. It was a good job he was there because I had no idea where to go and he pointed me in the right direction. As I reached the Craigie Fort section I lost the markers and started walking back before another runner told me I was on the right course. I was to run behind him for the next 6 miles to the next drop bag point. I thought this section was great and I loved running through the weaving trail sections with great views of Loch Lomond. I started passing people who had slowed down, but I was feeling great and felt like I was floating on the trails. I am so used to running on muddy slippery farm fields that I was a good feeling to have firm trails underfoot. I am fortunate to have very few problems with my feet in regards to blisters or pain and could just plough my way along without worrying where my feet landed. I don’t remember any landmarks on this section other than the occasional shoreline of the loch and a few short road sections, which mainly had the trail running alongside. The runner in front was running at such a good pace that I stuck behind him the whole way until suddenly I saw a sign for Rowardennan Hotel and was surprised to be there already at mile 27 in 4 hours 28 minutes. I had not eaten anything over the last section as it was only 6 miles but I again wolfed down the contents of my drop bag, which was the same as the first.
I walked out the checkpoint while on the phone but as soon as I started running I could feel that my stomach was feeling a bit dodgy. Too much food I though. Little and often, not lots and often. I was on my own and I found my mood swinging because of my stomach. I was still overtaking people and no one was overtaking me so I remained positive but on a downhill I suddenly started feeling a lot of pain. The pain was mainly around my appendix area but my whole lower stomach was stabbing with pain. It was only a problem on the downhill’s but it is annoying when you are walking the uphill’s and reduced to a slow run on the downs. The wider forestry track turned into a single track and my mood swung back up. I was really enjoying the terrain and got a control of the pain. I was still overtaking people and figured that I could be a lot worse, I still had all my energy and my legs were fresh. I finally arrived at Inversnaid, mile 34, where the third drop bag point was and with all the trouble I was having with my stomach I decided to go light and only downed an Ensure Plus and put an electrolyte tablet in my water as I felt a little dehydrated.
I had mixed feelings about the next 6 miles as I thought this section of the route was the best out of the entire Fling. I loved the single track and the rocks, I loved weaving through the trees and boulders, but it was now starting to go a bit wrong also. My stomach hurt like hell and I was also starting to lose some energy. I think it was mainly because of the heat as it was warming up. I carried a buff on my hand so I could dip it into all the streams I passed and use the water to cool down. I was starting to regret having put an electrolyte tablet in my water because after my very strong tasting fruit punch flavoured Ensure, the last thing I wanted was something sweet. I started craving just plain water and eyed up the streams with envy. I could remember getting to near the end of Loch Lomond and thinking when is this loch going to end. I was still passing people and only relay runners were passing me so I remained positive. As I approached the end of the loch with about 2 miles before the last drop bag point, I caught up with the runner that I had previously been behind in the section between Balmaha and Rowardennan. At a couple of uphill sections he stopped for me to pass, which I declined. He must have thought I was using him as a pacer but I just did not have enough in me to get past. As we approached Bein Glas Farm he pulled away from me and disappeared from view. I finally arrived at Bein Glas Farm, mile 41, at 7 hours 34 minutes. I got my drop bag but nothing in it appealed to me as I had reached sugar overload. All I wanted was something greasy, like a fry up. I managed to get a rice pudding down and drink some coke before loading a packet of mini eggs into my pouch and filling my hand held up with water along with my empty coke bottle. It was now that I looked at the time and realised that I was so far ahead of my 12 hour schedule but knew that the last 12 miles could blow up in my face.
As I set off for the finish, I reminded myself that these events are not meant to be easy, and I should just run when I can and walk when I couldn’t. I remembered that on John Kynaston blog he mentioned breaking down the last section into three sections consisting of a 3 mile, 6 mile, then a final 3 mile section. I could not remember quite where the end of the first section was but when I came up to a farm and saw the name above the door, I recognised it. It was Derrydaroch, and I was surprised that I had done almost 3 miles already which gave me a big mental boost. I was running on empty as my nutrition was down, I was dehydrated and in pain, but I was still enjoying the run. I arrived at the tunnel that passes under the A82 and despite thinking that I was moving too slowly, I continued to pass people. When I pass people in runs, I never get any thoughts of competitiveness because I truly believe that a person can only compete against themselves. Instead I appreciate that although my brain is telling me that I am suffering and that I should feel sorry for myself, there are others felling much worse, so I should just stop listening to my brain and let my body push on. After passing a herd of cows in the path I knew I was getting closer to Crainlarich where the route would swing left through a forest. After the last of the larger inclines of the remaining route I again caught a glimpse of the runner whom I had been trailing most of the day. This time I could not catch him and he disappeared on the downhills where I was reduced to a painful stomach clenching hobble. After winding down the track for some time, I approached the tunnel under the rail line and approached the A82 road crossing. I could hear lots of cars and though how nice it would be to stop and rest while waiting to cross. No luck for me, it was clear and I crossed over. I knew that when I hit the remains of St Fillan’s Church that there was only about 3 miles left. I could tell from the terrain that it was mostly going to be flat and I made a deal with myself that I was going to run as much as possible. I ended up running the small inclines and walking the small descents due to the pain in my stomach. I was so hungry at this point and just wanted to eat masses of savoury food with lots of fat and no sweetness. I instead ate all my mini eggs. I have to admit that this section seemed to last forever. I was wishing to see sight of the finish. As I approached the final wooded section, someone told me I was really close but because of the trees I could not see how far. I finally came out onto a road near Tyndrum Lower Station but did not know where to go. I chose left and could see some runners just up ahead. Before I could see the finish, the runners ahead turned right and I could hear bagpipes erupting into action. I turned off the road, passed the piper and could see the crowds of people waiting at the finish. Again, I am used to the LDWA events, which are usually so laid back that you can arrive in silence back to a hall where it takes you 10 minutes to surgically remove your shoes before entering and wait patiently for someone to retrieve your tally and note the time. This was an electric reception and I pushed myself through the finish line.
After crossing the line someone asked to remove my timing chip and when I looked up I was shocked to see it was John Kynaston. I even said something like ‘sorry, it’s such a shock’, at which point I felt like such a prat that I didn’t say anything else. When my bag was handed to me I nearly dropped it and found it hard to lift it up, before the marshal kindly took my empty coke bottle and I could use both hands. I wolfed down my fish supper but I was feeling a bit rough. When I looked at the time I knew that I had smashed my 12 hour plan and have came in under 10 hours 30 minutes. I decided to get my kit bag as soon as possible and get changed before I got too cold as I was starting the shiver. I bought some pasties from the shop to get rid of the taste of sugar in my stomach. I then got a bit of courage to go and say hello to John Kynaston before retreating to sit on a wall where I did not move for a long time. I was feeling really rough now. I had lost all feeling in both my hands and some way up my right arm. I had waves of dizziness coming over me. But I’ve felt worse and knew I would live, so I sat it out. It was great seeing the awards ceremony. By the time I got on the bus at 9pm to go back the Milngavie, I started feeling better and got feeling back in my hands. What a hell of an event. I will definitely be back before the end of the year to run the last section of West Highland Way..... I will just wait will the midges have dwindled in numbers first.
After escaping a stomach bug for the Compton Challenge, it finally got me and with only two weeks until the Fling I spent 3 days and 3 all nighters camped out on the toilet. I was so weak that I just sat shivering, too weak to do much. I finally got out for a 6 mile run, nearly quitting at mile 1, but progressed through the remaining week up to a steady 10 mile run and a 2 miler two days before the event. I felt good again and my injuries were only whispering. I had no concerns about the run but I had some worries about the strategy that I have devised a day before the event, which was to ditch my 15L backpack with 2L bladder, waterproofs, mountains of food, mp3 player, spare toilet roll, spare socks, map, kitchen sink etc.... Instead I was going to wear a small waist pouch, wear an ultra thin wind stopper that I could tie around my waist, and carry a handheld for water. It should not have concerned me as there were ample drop bag locations where my little parcels full of goodies would be waiting for me. In the end, going light was a good strategy that I would do again.
I had decided to say in the Premier Inn at Milngavie for the night before and after the event because of the 6 hour drive. I planned on getting up early and trying to say hello to John Kynaston as I have been following his blog on almost a daily basis and it has been one of the biggest things that has kept me motivated through the rough patches. Unfortunately, I woke a bit too late and would have missed his start by minutes. I figured he would be finished and long gone before I arrived at the finish but luckily he was still there.... more on that later. I arrived with a good hour before my start at 8am and spent some time soaking up the atmosphere. We finally headed to the famous underpass where it all starts and I shuffled from foot to foot on the line between the sub 12 hours sign which was my goal, finish good and finish strong was my thinking.
20 seconds, 10 seconds, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, go. We were off, I had no idea where to go as I have never been on any of the West Highland Way and I had no map. I set a pace that I felt comfortable with and could breathe 4 steps in and 4 steps out. The high street flashed by and we were through Allander Park before I could comprehend that I had started. I continued to just follow the line of runners through Mugdock Woods where I fell in behind a group of runners, two of whom I would continue to follow for the next 18 miles. I do not tend to socialise much when running or much in general but I enjoy the company when running. Out of Mugdock Woods, passed Scroggy Hill and on past Craigallian Loch. My breathing had switched back to my regular 3 steps in and 3 steps out. It was great running up to Dumgoyach Hill at around 5.5 miles but the next 4 miles was on a dismantled railway line and I always find them harder to run on due to the uniformity and straightness of their profile. As far as this one goes, it was well established with vegetation and better than most I have run on. During this section my left knee pain returned, first on the inside then moving to the lower right where it lingered. At the end of the track there was a road section and a small field crossing before reaching Drymen at around mile 12, in 1 hour 47 minutes, where the first timing station and water refill was located.
I still felt great and was appreciating not having a very heavy backpack on. I would recommend it to anyone doing this event. The next section headed into Queens Elizabeth Forest which is a forest still managed for timber. I spent most of this time remembering my forestry education that I have locked away in my brain but alas have resigned myself to the fact that the only outcome has been a degree certificate that one day I may need to be used as emergency toilet paper. The group I was running behind was now down to only two and as we left the forest I got my first proper views of Conic Hill. After reading many blogs and accounts of previous races I was unsure what the terrain and accents would be like. After seeing Conic Hill I was undaunted as many runs in the Dark Peak and Yorkshire have given me a longing for hills (I would not have said that at mile 40 though). After crossing the Burn of Mar the accent started and I only ran if there was a flat section and walked the lot. The two runners in front became one and I walked to the crest before taking about 10 running leaps down the other side and feeling the pain returning in my right abs. I was annoyed because it had stopped me in my tracking in previous events, but fortunately when I slowed down it reduced to a mild irritation. I lost the runner in front but would see him again later at around mile 30. I was relieved when I made it to the bottom with only a slight pain in my left knee and only an aching pain in my abs. I could see runners in front and followed them in to Balmaha car park, the first drop bag point at around 20 miles. As I approached, someone asked for my race number in a very urgent manner and I got all flustered asking if he could repeat the questions a couple of times. I found out that marshals were situated in front of the drop bags to shout the number so the bags are ready for a speedy collection. I am so used to the LDWA runs where you have to wait patiently for the marshal to finish a conversation then proceed to have a conversation with them yourself for the next 5 minutes before finally punching your tally and remembering that you are supposed to be running. I sat down and ate the contents of my parcel. So far I have ate three cereal bars, one every 5 miles and now I ate a bag of crisps, 550ml of coke, a pot of rice pudding, downed an Ensure Plus and reloaded my pouch with a cereal bar and Mars bar. I thanked the marshals before leaving for their amazing effort and I could see the enthusiasm they held for the event.
As I started walking out of the car park I got a shock to bump into Jez, which gave me a boost, and we talked as I walked to the road. It was a good job he was there because I had no idea where to go and he pointed me in the right direction. As I reached the Craigie Fort section I lost the markers and started walking back before another runner told me I was on the right course. I was to run behind him for the next 6 miles to the next drop bag point. I thought this section was great and I loved running through the weaving trail sections with great views of Loch Lomond. I started passing people who had slowed down, but I was feeling great and felt like I was floating on the trails. I am so used to running on muddy slippery farm fields that I was a good feeling to have firm trails underfoot. I am fortunate to have very few problems with my feet in regards to blisters or pain and could just plough my way along without worrying where my feet landed. I don’t remember any landmarks on this section other than the occasional shoreline of the loch and a few short road sections, which mainly had the trail running alongside. The runner in front was running at such a good pace that I stuck behind him the whole way until suddenly I saw a sign for Rowardennan Hotel and was surprised to be there already at mile 27 in 4 hours 28 minutes. I had not eaten anything over the last section as it was only 6 miles but I again wolfed down the contents of my drop bag, which was the same as the first.
I walked out the checkpoint while on the phone but as soon as I started running I could feel that my stomach was feeling a bit dodgy. Too much food I though. Little and often, not lots and often. I was on my own and I found my mood swinging because of my stomach. I was still overtaking people and no one was overtaking me so I remained positive but on a downhill I suddenly started feeling a lot of pain. The pain was mainly around my appendix area but my whole lower stomach was stabbing with pain. It was only a problem on the downhill’s but it is annoying when you are walking the uphill’s and reduced to a slow run on the downs. The wider forestry track turned into a single track and my mood swung back up. I was really enjoying the terrain and got a control of the pain. I was still overtaking people and figured that I could be a lot worse, I still had all my energy and my legs were fresh. I finally arrived at Inversnaid, mile 34, where the third drop bag point was and with all the trouble I was having with my stomach I decided to go light and only downed an Ensure Plus and put an electrolyte tablet in my water as I felt a little dehydrated.
I had mixed feelings about the next 6 miles as I thought this section of the route was the best out of the entire Fling. I loved the single track and the rocks, I loved weaving through the trees and boulders, but it was now starting to go a bit wrong also. My stomach hurt like hell and I was also starting to lose some energy. I think it was mainly because of the heat as it was warming up. I carried a buff on my hand so I could dip it into all the streams I passed and use the water to cool down. I was starting to regret having put an electrolyte tablet in my water because after my very strong tasting fruit punch flavoured Ensure, the last thing I wanted was something sweet. I started craving just plain water and eyed up the streams with envy. I could remember getting to near the end of Loch Lomond and thinking when is this loch going to end. I was still passing people and only relay runners were passing me so I remained positive. As I approached the end of the loch with about 2 miles before the last drop bag point, I caught up with the runner that I had previously been behind in the section between Balmaha and Rowardennan. At a couple of uphill sections he stopped for me to pass, which I declined. He must have thought I was using him as a pacer but I just did not have enough in me to get past. As we approached Bein Glas Farm he pulled away from me and disappeared from view. I finally arrived at Bein Glas Farm, mile 41, at 7 hours 34 minutes. I got my drop bag but nothing in it appealed to me as I had reached sugar overload. All I wanted was something greasy, like a fry up. I managed to get a rice pudding down and drink some coke before loading a packet of mini eggs into my pouch and filling my hand held up with water along with my empty coke bottle. It was now that I looked at the time and realised that I was so far ahead of my 12 hour schedule but knew that the last 12 miles could blow up in my face.
As I set off for the finish, I reminded myself that these events are not meant to be easy, and I should just run when I can and walk when I couldn’t. I remembered that on John Kynaston blog he mentioned breaking down the last section into three sections consisting of a 3 mile, 6 mile, then a final 3 mile section. I could not remember quite where the end of the first section was but when I came up to a farm and saw the name above the door, I recognised it. It was Derrydaroch, and I was surprised that I had done almost 3 miles already which gave me a big mental boost. I was running on empty as my nutrition was down, I was dehydrated and in pain, but I was still enjoying the run. I arrived at the tunnel that passes under the A82 and despite thinking that I was moving too slowly, I continued to pass people. When I pass people in runs, I never get any thoughts of competitiveness because I truly believe that a person can only compete against themselves. Instead I appreciate that although my brain is telling me that I am suffering and that I should feel sorry for myself, there are others felling much worse, so I should just stop listening to my brain and let my body push on. After passing a herd of cows in the path I knew I was getting closer to Crainlarich where the route would swing left through a forest. After the last of the larger inclines of the remaining route I again caught a glimpse of the runner whom I had been trailing most of the day. This time I could not catch him and he disappeared on the downhills where I was reduced to a painful stomach clenching hobble. After winding down the track for some time, I approached the tunnel under the rail line and approached the A82 road crossing. I could hear lots of cars and though how nice it would be to stop and rest while waiting to cross. No luck for me, it was clear and I crossed over. I knew that when I hit the remains of St Fillan’s Church that there was only about 3 miles left. I could tell from the terrain that it was mostly going to be flat and I made a deal with myself that I was going to run as much as possible. I ended up running the small inclines and walking the small descents due to the pain in my stomach. I was so hungry at this point and just wanted to eat masses of savoury food with lots of fat and no sweetness. I instead ate all my mini eggs. I have to admit that this section seemed to last forever. I was wishing to see sight of the finish. As I approached the final wooded section, someone told me I was really close but because of the trees I could not see how far. I finally came out onto a road near Tyndrum Lower Station but did not know where to go. I chose left and could see some runners just up ahead. Before I could see the finish, the runners ahead turned right and I could hear bagpipes erupting into action. I turned off the road, passed the piper and could see the crowds of people waiting at the finish. Again, I am used to the LDWA events, which are usually so laid back that you can arrive in silence back to a hall where it takes you 10 minutes to surgically remove your shoes before entering and wait patiently for someone to retrieve your tally and note the time. This was an electric reception and I pushed myself through the finish line.
After crossing the line someone asked to remove my timing chip and when I looked up I was shocked to see it was John Kynaston. I even said something like ‘sorry, it’s such a shock’, at which point I felt like such a prat that I didn’t say anything else. When my bag was handed to me I nearly dropped it and found it hard to lift it up, before the marshal kindly took my empty coke bottle and I could use both hands. I wolfed down my fish supper but I was feeling a bit rough. When I looked at the time I knew that I had smashed my 12 hour plan and have came in under 10 hours 30 minutes. I decided to get my kit bag as soon as possible and get changed before I got too cold as I was starting the shiver. I bought some pasties from the shop to get rid of the taste of sugar in my stomach. I then got a bit of courage to go and say hello to John Kynaston before retreating to sit on a wall where I did not move for a long time. I was feeling really rough now. I had lost all feeling in both my hands and some way up my right arm. I had waves of dizziness coming over me. But I’ve felt worse and knew I would live, so I sat it out. It was great seeing the awards ceremony. By the time I got on the bus at 9pm to go back the Milngavie, I started feeling better and got feeling back in my hands. What a hell of an event. I will definitely be back before the end of the year to run the last section of West Highland Way..... I will just wait will the midges have dwindled in numbers first.
Sunday, 4 April 2010
The 14th Compton Challenge
The Compton Challenge is a 40 mile figure of eight route which also includes a 20 mile option for completing only the first loop. It was a race to the start for this run as both my daughters where projectile vomiting with a stomach bug, and I was covered on a number of occasions as a result. Luckily I made it to the event without contracting the plague. I headed down the night before to use the free ‘camping facilities’ at the school hall, with the intention of getting some decent sleep and not having to get up at 5am. It was raining heavy that night and with a forecast for rain the next day, I was ready for a wet one. The morning of the race ended up being cold and dry. I was torn between wanting to take only a handheld water bottle and a bit of food, or taking my backpack with 2L of water, spare waterproof jacket and lots of supplies. I ended up taking the heavier option.
We all made out way to the start line at the schools playing field and stood shivering. I was wearing a long sleeved thermal top and a fleece but most people were only in vests. Just before the start, the sun came out and I could tell it was going to get hot. We had a countdown and were off, which first involved a lap around the field before heading into single track through woods, involving lots of people franticly jumping through trees to avoid the bottle necks. I soon got into a rhythm and fell in with other runners, slowly playing leap-frog with them until I found a group that suited my pace best. I started getting really hot and wanted to take my fleece off but decided to wait until the first checkpoint. There were eight checkpoints in total, and the first was at 4.5 miles. The journey there involved running through a mixture of fields, tracks, roads and footpaths which on the whole where fairly muddy from the recent rain but it was only shallow mud that allowed easy passage through. After a close encounter with postman pat (who did not want to slow down), I arrived at Hampstead Norreys and at checkpoint 1. It was only a water station and with 2L only my back I ran straight through.
The start of the next section involved climbing a hill and I used the time to take off my fleece and tie it around my waist. The top of the hill levelled out and a long section of running of flat could be seen ahead. The constant changing between tracks, fields and footpaths enclosed in woodland gave a really good sense of progression through this run, with very few long views of the route ahead to allow for negative dwelling about the remaining distance. Through Ashampstead, through more woodland and up a few hills, the next checkpoint arrived at mile 10. As this was a proper running race I thought the checkpoints would be just water and a bit of sugary fuel, although the checkpoints were similar to the LDWA with a variety of food and drinks.
Next there was a steep hill to climb, although very short in length, and as the top levelled off my energy returned immediately. I had been running at an average of 9 minute miles, which involved running 7 to 8 minute miles of the flats and down hills to compensate for the slower uphill accents. I was worried about burning out in the later miles of the run but wanted to get an idea of pace for the Highland Fling Race which I need a 9 min/mile pace for the first 12 miles. I continued on through more woodland and onto Lardon Chase, giving views out over Streatley and the surrounding hills. A steep downhill section brought a bit of pain to my knee but a level section of running made it go away. Running through Aldworth brought imminent arrival of the next checkpoint at 15.5 miles.
The next section was mostly all on track and included a section of the Ridgway bridleway. Although good for running fast, it brought less stimulation for the brain. Up until this point I had been feeling good and had ample energy but I could start to feel it fading slightly. I had always wanted to pass the 19.5 mark feeling good as this was where the route split for the 20 mile route and I did not want to battle with my mind if I was in a low and wanted to quickly divert back the finish and call it a day. Luckily I arrived at the next checkpoint where the route splits and was still feeling good.
The sun was becoming stronger at this point and I had salt build-up round my eyes from sweat. My heavy backpack was causing my back to sweat excessively also and I made sure I was drinking enough to prevent dehydration. The route to the next checkpoint involved long straight sections that allowed you to see how little progress you are making and how far you have left. I started having my low point here. A number of runners passed me as I started plodding with my head down. I pushed on, but halfway to the checkpoint I started feeling a pain in my abs, the same pain as in my run the weekend previously. As the pain increased I slowed further until I was reduced to a walk. I was furious at the pain. It would subside when walking only to increase again when running. I continued with a run/walk approach to the checkpoint on the outskirts of Chilton.
After the checkpoint I decided to tighten the waist belt on my backpack so that it would hold my abs as tight as possible to try and reduce the pain. I found that this, along with straining my stomach out, started to ease the pain, but it was another 4 miles before reaching the next checkpoint at East Hendred that the pain would go completely. On the approach to this checkpoint another runner passed me but as the pain subsided, I managed to catch up with him and we both reached the checkpoint together.
We both refuelled and set off together but I found myself ahead of the other runner, slowly gaining more and more ground between up. At this point I started felling great after my low point, and I mean really good. My pace increased and my legs started feeling fresher. There was a half marathon distance of 13 miles left to go and I started ticking off the miles. I passed two more runners at East Ginge, which was the 30 mile mark, and headed along tracks towards checkpoint 7. There was a hill on the approach and I could see a runner catching up from behind. I was still feeling great and pushed on to arrive at the checkpoint.
On leaving the checkpoint the runner who was catching up arrived but was getting a cup of tea and I did not see him again. It was just less than 5 miles to the next checkpoint and I still felt good. It started to rain at this point. I continued on down a bridleway which included random horse jumps, some looked like little castle walls and other made into great wooden structures. I arrived in West Ilsley at the 33 mile mark and headed on a long detoured route along bridleways towards East Ilsley where the last checkpoint was located. My energy was started to subside a bit now but I was having such a mental high. All my recent runs have finished in me feeling like death and were a battle to finish. Here I was having run 36 miles and I was feeling almost as fresh as mile 6. I arrived at the final checkpoint just as the rain started to get heavier and turned into a downpour.
I left the checkpoint on my final 4 miles, climbing the hill through East Ilsley and following the Ilsley Down Riding Route bridleway. There was a steep uphill where I could see another runner at the top and I walked the hill using the time to put my fleece back on to warm up a bit in the rain. I pushed now and soon caught the runner ahead and passed by. I was soon running back on a leg of the outward route and knew exactly where to go. I started to run most of the uphills now and was pushing hard. I could see another runner ahead but had no incentive to pass him, only to finish strong and on a high. I started feeling a bit sick on the last mile but only because I was pushing myself and as I approached the finish, the sickness soon went. I returned through the single track and ran onto the school playing fields where it all began, before being greeted at the finish line.
I got my winners t-shire and a Cadbury’s Cream Egg for an Easter treat before making my way back to the canteen and wolfing down some amazing sausage, chips and beans. It was a long drive back so I got ready quickly and headed off home in the rain. I passed through East Ilsley where the last checkpoint was and could see a number of runners in the pouring rain looking miserable and wet, but I was still on a massive high. I never mention my running times because I only care about making the distances but my time for this was 6 hours and 49 minutes, which is amazing for me. My best 50 miler was just over 10 hours but I feel that I could have done an 8.5 – 9 hour 50 miler that day. On reviewing my Garmin watch I could see that there was a reduction in pace when I hit my low and I was in pain, but my final 13 miles were almost as fast as my first 20 miles. I am now in high spirits for the 53 miles of the Highland Fling Race in three weeks time and have to make sure to rest properly as it will not be an easy one, with lots of accent and difficult terrain in the second half. I can only hope for that amazing feeling at mile 40 again which I why we all keep coming back for more.
We all made out way to the start line at the schools playing field and stood shivering. I was wearing a long sleeved thermal top and a fleece but most people were only in vests. Just before the start, the sun came out and I could tell it was going to get hot. We had a countdown and were off, which first involved a lap around the field before heading into single track through woods, involving lots of people franticly jumping through trees to avoid the bottle necks. I soon got into a rhythm and fell in with other runners, slowly playing leap-frog with them until I found a group that suited my pace best. I started getting really hot and wanted to take my fleece off but decided to wait until the first checkpoint. There were eight checkpoints in total, and the first was at 4.5 miles. The journey there involved running through a mixture of fields, tracks, roads and footpaths which on the whole where fairly muddy from the recent rain but it was only shallow mud that allowed easy passage through. After a close encounter with postman pat (who did not want to slow down), I arrived at Hampstead Norreys and at checkpoint 1. It was only a water station and with 2L only my back I ran straight through.
The start of the next section involved climbing a hill and I used the time to take off my fleece and tie it around my waist. The top of the hill levelled out and a long section of running of flat could be seen ahead. The constant changing between tracks, fields and footpaths enclosed in woodland gave a really good sense of progression through this run, with very few long views of the route ahead to allow for negative dwelling about the remaining distance. Through Ashampstead, through more woodland and up a few hills, the next checkpoint arrived at mile 10. As this was a proper running race I thought the checkpoints would be just water and a bit of sugary fuel, although the checkpoints were similar to the LDWA with a variety of food and drinks.
Next there was a steep hill to climb, although very short in length, and as the top levelled off my energy returned immediately. I had been running at an average of 9 minute miles, which involved running 7 to 8 minute miles of the flats and down hills to compensate for the slower uphill accents. I was worried about burning out in the later miles of the run but wanted to get an idea of pace for the Highland Fling Race which I need a 9 min/mile pace for the first 12 miles. I continued on through more woodland and onto Lardon Chase, giving views out over Streatley and the surrounding hills. A steep downhill section brought a bit of pain to my knee but a level section of running made it go away. Running through Aldworth brought imminent arrival of the next checkpoint at 15.5 miles.
The next section was mostly all on track and included a section of the Ridgway bridleway. Although good for running fast, it brought less stimulation for the brain. Up until this point I had been feeling good and had ample energy but I could start to feel it fading slightly. I had always wanted to pass the 19.5 mark feeling good as this was where the route split for the 20 mile route and I did not want to battle with my mind if I was in a low and wanted to quickly divert back the finish and call it a day. Luckily I arrived at the next checkpoint where the route splits and was still feeling good.
The sun was becoming stronger at this point and I had salt build-up round my eyes from sweat. My heavy backpack was causing my back to sweat excessively also and I made sure I was drinking enough to prevent dehydration. The route to the next checkpoint involved long straight sections that allowed you to see how little progress you are making and how far you have left. I started having my low point here. A number of runners passed me as I started plodding with my head down. I pushed on, but halfway to the checkpoint I started feeling a pain in my abs, the same pain as in my run the weekend previously. As the pain increased I slowed further until I was reduced to a walk. I was furious at the pain. It would subside when walking only to increase again when running. I continued with a run/walk approach to the checkpoint on the outskirts of Chilton.
After the checkpoint I decided to tighten the waist belt on my backpack so that it would hold my abs as tight as possible to try and reduce the pain. I found that this, along with straining my stomach out, started to ease the pain, but it was another 4 miles before reaching the next checkpoint at East Hendred that the pain would go completely. On the approach to this checkpoint another runner passed me but as the pain subsided, I managed to catch up with him and we both reached the checkpoint together.
We both refuelled and set off together but I found myself ahead of the other runner, slowly gaining more and more ground between up. At this point I started felling great after my low point, and I mean really good. My pace increased and my legs started feeling fresher. There was a half marathon distance of 13 miles left to go and I started ticking off the miles. I passed two more runners at East Ginge, which was the 30 mile mark, and headed along tracks towards checkpoint 7. There was a hill on the approach and I could see a runner catching up from behind. I was still feeling great and pushed on to arrive at the checkpoint.
On leaving the checkpoint the runner who was catching up arrived but was getting a cup of tea and I did not see him again. It was just less than 5 miles to the next checkpoint and I still felt good. It started to rain at this point. I continued on down a bridleway which included random horse jumps, some looked like little castle walls and other made into great wooden structures. I arrived in West Ilsley at the 33 mile mark and headed on a long detoured route along bridleways towards East Ilsley where the last checkpoint was located. My energy was started to subside a bit now but I was having such a mental high. All my recent runs have finished in me feeling like death and were a battle to finish. Here I was having run 36 miles and I was feeling almost as fresh as mile 6. I arrived at the final checkpoint just as the rain started to get heavier and turned into a downpour.
I left the checkpoint on my final 4 miles, climbing the hill through East Ilsley and following the Ilsley Down Riding Route bridleway. There was a steep uphill where I could see another runner at the top and I walked the hill using the time to put my fleece back on to warm up a bit in the rain. I pushed now and soon caught the runner ahead and passed by. I was soon running back on a leg of the outward route and knew exactly where to go. I started to run most of the uphills now and was pushing hard. I could see another runner ahead but had no incentive to pass him, only to finish strong and on a high. I started feeling a bit sick on the last mile but only because I was pushing myself and as I approached the finish, the sickness soon went. I returned through the single track and ran onto the school playing fields where it all began, before being greeted at the finish line.
I got my winners t-shire and a Cadbury’s Cream Egg for an Easter treat before making my way back to the canteen and wolfing down some amazing sausage, chips and beans. It was a long drive back so I got ready quickly and headed off home in the rain. I passed through East Ilsley where the last checkpoint was and could see a number of runners in the pouring rain looking miserable and wet, but I was still on a massive high. I never mention my running times because I only care about making the distances but my time for this was 6 hours and 49 minutes, which is amazing for me. My best 50 miler was just over 10 hours but I feel that I could have done an 8.5 – 9 hour 50 miler that day. On reviewing my Garmin watch I could see that there was a reduction in pace when I hit my low and I was in pain, but my final 13 miles were almost as fast as my first 20 miles. I am now in high spirits for the 53 miles of the Highland Fling Race in three weeks time and have to make sure to rest properly as it will not be an easy one, with lots of accent and difficult terrain in the second half. I can only hope for that amazing feeling at mile 40 again which I why we all keep coming back for more.
Sunday, 28 March 2010
Kipling Kaper
With my dodgy knee starting to feel less dodgy, it was time for the Kipling Kaper, a 31 mile event in the Peak District. For this event I had planned to just going for it, to just run as fast as my legs will take me (but without getting too out of breath). The event was closer to home than most so I got to get up at a later time of 6am for a change. Everything was going good until I reversed my car (still on the drive) into my neighbour’s car. I felt like such a tosser. After a quick letter through his letter box apologising, I set off in a really shitty mood. The weather did not help when I was met with rain and thick fog.
I arrived at the start with plenty of time to register, get ready and dwell on the morning’s incident. The start was more memorable than most events I have participated in recently with a mass start and I had just drove into my neighbour's car. I can now recognise a lot of the regular runners in the local events and felt sorry for Nick Ham who had to recount on his injuries over and over to everyone he talked to, although all the concern shows that he is a much liked member of this community. As we all grouped together in the car park, the sun came out and off we went.
We all set off in a big group which I positioned myself hear the front. The first hill came quickly and the group began to spread out although not by much. Everyone seemed to want to run the first hill, so I just got my head down and ran with them. We reached the top of Gun hill trig point where I could see about 6 runners in front of me and a long line behind. All the aches and pains of injuries were staying a bay so far but there was a section of downhill to tackle next. I thought I kept at a slower pace to make sure my knee did not flare up, but on reviewing the data from my watch I found I was going 5 minute miles at times which is 12 mph. A few runners when flying past me on the grassy banks and I cannot imagine what speed they were doing. At around the 3 mile mark I thought I could feel a blister on the back of my right foot which started hurting so bar I had to stop. I noticed that there was no blister there but a big purple patch. Already feeling down after redesigning my neighbours car, I was so deflated that I thought about quitting right there and walking back. On the other hand, in light of the damage I had done to the car I was going to make this run count for something and any suffering may take my mind off it. I ran on and found the pain started decreasing as the mile ticked by. We passed Abbey Green and headed due west. Before the first check point at 8.5 miles there was a long straight stretch along a disused railway line. I found myself with two other runners who were running at the same speed. We sped along the flat section and with the pain on my heel not hindering me anymore, I fell into a meditative pace dwelling on damaged cars.
After 2 miles running alongside Rudyard Reservoir, I arrival at check point 1, grabbed a couple of biscuits, and set off quickly along with the two other runners I was with previously. A new member joined the group before we left the disused railway track and headed toward Rushton Spencer. We continued onto the Dane Valley Way and along a canal feeder. Here another runner joined the group which would continue to lose a few in front and behind only to rejoin again at the next style or gate. The group passed through Danebridge before heading off through farm fields, passed Hammerton Farm, then passing a pub called the Wild Boar. This event allows for a number of different route combinations to allow for a varied distances. It was my intention to do the whole hog and coming up next was an out and back climb up a hill called Shutlingsloe, which is only 506 feet in elevation but a ‘crawling on hands and knees’ accent to get to the summit. I could see it in the distance and it looked big and steep. A number of our group asked me if I was going to do it and although I was still feeling relatively fresh, I was having concerns about pains in my knee and my right leg. As we approached the start of the 2 mile extra sightseeing tour up the hill, I had almost decided not to do it but as everyone else was heading up the hill I followed. For the next 2 miles I was regretting every extra step I had to take. It was not the extra distance but my legs were telling me that I have not done many hilly runs recently and were turning to concrete. We reached the top and nearly got blown away in strong winds before descending back to the bottom. The very last section of the detour was a steep road and right at the bottom I felt sharp stabbing pains in my abs. I could walk fine but running sent stabbing pain with every step. I was having a nightmare of a time. I damaged my neighbour’s car, got a new injury on my heel, trashed my legs going up some hill and now I am doubled over in pain. The next check point was within spitting distance and I walked it in catching the group in the hall, all on a feeding frenzy.
I decided to make it a quick stop so I could get back out and try and walk off the new pain in my abs. I shoved a load of cakes and scones in my mouth and grabbed a couple of sausage rolls to eat on the hoof. I left the group still feeding knowing they will soon catch me and leave me for dead. I walked at first and slowly started to do a run/walk until I could tolerate the pain. I was feeling so low that I just focused on forward momentum. I started along Cumberland Brook before two of the team caught me up and we ascended up to Danebower Hollow, walking the whole way. At reaching the top I was all but finished. I started running again, but at a much slower pace trying to suck my abs in to reduce the pain. The other two runners were ahead and I slowly lost sight of them. The only people I would see for the remainder of the event was three more runners who I would crawl past in the later stages. There was a bit of a downhill section next and I could see the route would take me through a valley. I managed to pick my mood up a bit and found a bit more speed, keeping to a run. I spent this time thinking about my version of 'pimp my ride' to my neighbour's car. I was getting cold and decided to put my fleece on, hoping the extra heat would reduce the pain. There was a bit of navigational error which resulted in me running randomly across fields to find the correct track, which I eventually found. On the map I could see how close the next check point was and this, along with a surface that was easier to run on, gave me enough of a boost to push on. Finally I could see the check point.
The third and last check point was in a car park and there was ample food and refreshments and a warm atmosphere. I didn’t stop long and made my way towards The Roaches. I have been rock climbing here a number of times in the past and was looking forward to running through it. Unfortunately the approach involved a big accent up through Gradback Wood, up to Roach End and up to the top of The Roaches. I walked the entire length with short jogs on any flat sections. I was starting to have a big low again and though the climb would never end. I just wanted to run and get this over with. At the top of The Roaches, it levelled off and I started to run again. It was just before the decent down from the ridge that I caught up with three other runners and after passing two, I continued along with the third. We ran through the maze of paths down to the road and I could see that it was mostly downhill to the finish. I pushed ahead in the hope that it was all going to end quicker and after a quick navigation error involving climbing up a steep hill I had just ran down, I swore my way along wet muddy fields. This was the final push and I was doing everything to keep running. The pain in my abs was becoming unbearable and my face was completely contorted as a hissed my way through endless number of gates and stiles. I was so close and the last few hundred yards I was reduced to a walk as I could not take the pain any more. I ripped my shoes off at the entrance of the finish hall and after handing in my card, made my way to the food and started shovelling it down (and what a feast there was). I could not be bothered to put my shoes back on as the effort seemed too much, so I finally walked back to the car in my socks. Only one thing left to do... go home and talk to my neighbour.
My neighbour was extremely understanding and said that everything was fine, but I still feel angry at myself. This whole experience has shown me one thing. When undertaking an endurance event, a positive outlook from the start will get you a long way after your body fails, and a negative outlook will only get you as far as your body will take you. I have physically recovered well the day after the event and now have to mentally focus on the Compton Challenge 40 mile run I have next weekend. Then there will be only 3 weeks until the Highland Fling Race which is my first none training run of the year.
I arrived at the start with plenty of time to register, get ready and dwell on the morning’s incident. The start was more memorable than most events I have participated in recently with a mass start and I had just drove into my neighbour's car. I can now recognise a lot of the regular runners in the local events and felt sorry for Nick Ham who had to recount on his injuries over and over to everyone he talked to, although all the concern shows that he is a much liked member of this community. As we all grouped together in the car park, the sun came out and off we went.
We all set off in a big group which I positioned myself hear the front. The first hill came quickly and the group began to spread out although not by much. Everyone seemed to want to run the first hill, so I just got my head down and ran with them. We reached the top of Gun hill trig point where I could see about 6 runners in front of me and a long line behind. All the aches and pains of injuries were staying a bay so far but there was a section of downhill to tackle next. I thought I kept at a slower pace to make sure my knee did not flare up, but on reviewing the data from my watch I found I was going 5 minute miles at times which is 12 mph. A few runners when flying past me on the grassy banks and I cannot imagine what speed they were doing. At around the 3 mile mark I thought I could feel a blister on the back of my right foot which started hurting so bar I had to stop. I noticed that there was no blister there but a big purple patch. Already feeling down after redesigning my neighbours car, I was so deflated that I thought about quitting right there and walking back. On the other hand, in light of the damage I had done to the car I was going to make this run count for something and any suffering may take my mind off it. I ran on and found the pain started decreasing as the mile ticked by. We passed Abbey Green and headed due west. Before the first check point at 8.5 miles there was a long straight stretch along a disused railway line. I found myself with two other runners who were running at the same speed. We sped along the flat section and with the pain on my heel not hindering me anymore, I fell into a meditative pace dwelling on damaged cars.
After 2 miles running alongside Rudyard Reservoir, I arrival at check point 1, grabbed a couple of biscuits, and set off quickly along with the two other runners I was with previously. A new member joined the group before we left the disused railway track and headed toward Rushton Spencer. We continued onto the Dane Valley Way and along a canal feeder. Here another runner joined the group which would continue to lose a few in front and behind only to rejoin again at the next style or gate. The group passed through Danebridge before heading off through farm fields, passed Hammerton Farm, then passing a pub called the Wild Boar. This event allows for a number of different route combinations to allow for a varied distances. It was my intention to do the whole hog and coming up next was an out and back climb up a hill called Shutlingsloe, which is only 506 feet in elevation but a ‘crawling on hands and knees’ accent to get to the summit. I could see it in the distance and it looked big and steep. A number of our group asked me if I was going to do it and although I was still feeling relatively fresh, I was having concerns about pains in my knee and my right leg. As we approached the start of the 2 mile extra sightseeing tour up the hill, I had almost decided not to do it but as everyone else was heading up the hill I followed. For the next 2 miles I was regretting every extra step I had to take. It was not the extra distance but my legs were telling me that I have not done many hilly runs recently and were turning to concrete. We reached the top and nearly got blown away in strong winds before descending back to the bottom. The very last section of the detour was a steep road and right at the bottom I felt sharp stabbing pains in my abs. I could walk fine but running sent stabbing pain with every step. I was having a nightmare of a time. I damaged my neighbour’s car, got a new injury on my heel, trashed my legs going up some hill and now I am doubled over in pain. The next check point was within spitting distance and I walked it in catching the group in the hall, all on a feeding frenzy.
I decided to make it a quick stop so I could get back out and try and walk off the new pain in my abs. I shoved a load of cakes and scones in my mouth and grabbed a couple of sausage rolls to eat on the hoof. I left the group still feeding knowing they will soon catch me and leave me for dead. I walked at first and slowly started to do a run/walk until I could tolerate the pain. I was feeling so low that I just focused on forward momentum. I started along Cumberland Brook before two of the team caught me up and we ascended up to Danebower Hollow, walking the whole way. At reaching the top I was all but finished. I started running again, but at a much slower pace trying to suck my abs in to reduce the pain. The other two runners were ahead and I slowly lost sight of them. The only people I would see for the remainder of the event was three more runners who I would crawl past in the later stages. There was a bit of a downhill section next and I could see the route would take me through a valley. I managed to pick my mood up a bit and found a bit more speed, keeping to a run. I spent this time thinking about my version of 'pimp my ride' to my neighbour's car. I was getting cold and decided to put my fleece on, hoping the extra heat would reduce the pain. There was a bit of navigational error which resulted in me running randomly across fields to find the correct track, which I eventually found. On the map I could see how close the next check point was and this, along with a surface that was easier to run on, gave me enough of a boost to push on. Finally I could see the check point.
The third and last check point was in a car park and there was ample food and refreshments and a warm atmosphere. I didn’t stop long and made my way towards The Roaches. I have been rock climbing here a number of times in the past and was looking forward to running through it. Unfortunately the approach involved a big accent up through Gradback Wood, up to Roach End and up to the top of The Roaches. I walked the entire length with short jogs on any flat sections. I was starting to have a big low again and though the climb would never end. I just wanted to run and get this over with. At the top of The Roaches, it levelled off and I started to run again. It was just before the decent down from the ridge that I caught up with three other runners and after passing two, I continued along with the third. We ran through the maze of paths down to the road and I could see that it was mostly downhill to the finish. I pushed ahead in the hope that it was all going to end quicker and after a quick navigation error involving climbing up a steep hill I had just ran down, I swore my way along wet muddy fields. This was the final push and I was doing everything to keep running. The pain in my abs was becoming unbearable and my face was completely contorted as a hissed my way through endless number of gates and stiles. I was so close and the last few hundred yards I was reduced to a walk as I could not take the pain any more. I ripped my shoes off at the entrance of the finish hall and after handing in my card, made my way to the food and started shovelling it down (and what a feast there was). I could not be bothered to put my shoes back on as the effort seemed too much, so I finally walked back to the car in my socks. Only one thing left to do... go home and talk to my neighbour.
My neighbour was extremely understanding and said that everything was fine, but I still feel angry at myself. This whole experience has shown me one thing. When undertaking an endurance event, a positive outlook from the start will get you a long way after your body fails, and a negative outlook will only get you as far as your body will take you. I have physically recovered well the day after the event and now have to mentally focus on the Compton Challenge 40 mile run I have next weekend. Then there will be only 3 weeks until the Highland Fling Race which is my first none training run of the year.
Monday, 8 March 2010
Walk to ‘Ell and Back
Just a week after Not for Nothing 50, I felt ready for this 30 mile run although I planned to take it easy because I knew I would not be fully recovered. To try and keep my total weekly mileage up and to practice running on tired legs I did a 10 mile run on the Saturday before running the event on the Sunday. On the Saturday night I had a massive downer when my right knee locked up (an old none running injury) and I was unable to straighten it without a fair amount of pain. I knew that it would ‘pop back’ at any time but it can take days. After lots of grumping and moaning about never running again, pop, it was back to normal again. Just in time.
The event did not start till 9:30am so I didn’t have to get up at 4am like most events. With only 1.5 hour drive I arrived at Greetland All Rounders Rugby Club at 9am and prepared to leave. The weather was perfect, with blue skies, not a cloud in sight, temperatures around -4 degrees but with the promise of rising to 5 or 6 degrees. With a last minute decision to ditch my fleece, I was off.
The first couple of miles flew by as I meandered my way down to Rochdale Canal. With a brief visit through Sowerby Bridge, the canal was marginally uninspiring with a 3.5 mile section of straight flat footpath. I could see the hills all around and was looking forward to getting some elevation. At the end of the canal section there was a check point before the first small accent through Luddenden Foot up to Moor End where the second check point was located. With 7.3 mile done, I was feeling good and my legs were feeling fresh.
A mile into the next stage and I started feeling a sharp pain in the outside of my left knee. It was bearable and was not affecting my running so I continued on without too much thought. The bulk of the walkers were around this point and they all looked happy with the spectacular weather we were having. The temperature was rising but a cold breeze kept my cool with stunning views. I continued on along tracks and quiet country roads before following the Calderdale Way Trail. The route follows the trail to a check point at Ripponden, where the 15 mile route would travel back to the start and the 30 mile route would head in the opposite direction.
The opposite direction turned out to be one of the steepest roads I have ventured on, although it was over with quickly. I got to talking with another runner at this point but the pain in my knee was reaching new levels of pain. I had to say good bye and fall back with frequent stretching and rubbing. I knew it would not do it any good to continue running but I powered on. Through further tracks and country roads, I reach the next check point at Baitings Reservoir.
There was a huge cheese butty with my name on it at this check point and I walked across the dam trying to eat it as fast as possible. My knee was really hurting now but I was too occupied looking up at the hill I was about to climb. The next part of the route when up onto Rishworth Moor, which contoured around the top before arriving at Green Withens Reservoir where there was another check point.
The next section was all downhill and my knee was slowing me down to a crawl. Whenever there was a sharper pain spike than the one previous, I would make a strange grunting noise through my teeth and nose. I let gravity get me down before reaching the A672 which I followed closely before reaching the next check point at Booth Wood Reservoir.
I immediately went the wrong way after this check point but was helped back on track by a walker whom was many years my senior but still going stronger than all but a handful of the remaining walkers who set off at 8am that morning. I passed under the M62 and started my slow accent of Deanhead Moor at which point the sun was baking hot. I started feeling a bit dehydrated and my energy levels were depleting. I passed the last of the walkers before arriving at Deanhead Reservoir, where I arrived at and followed Scammonden Water to the next check point.
I had hit a low point now but knew that there was only around 5 to 6 miles left to go. The pain in my knee was slowing me down and I just wanted to get back. I decided to eat all my remaining food in one last effort for more energy and set off under the M62 once again before meandering down the valley back to the finish. I was to be completely on my own for the remainder of event apart from the virtual partner on my Garmin watch. I had given him a slow time but he had caught me up. He was under my feet and I used it to push on, so I ran the complete remainder of the route. Despite there being short steep accents, ankle deep mud, stiles, traffic on the road, the virtual partner was relentless and ploughed on through it all. I finally managed to get ahead of him and held a lead. I was so close I could see the finish at the top of the last steep hill. I arrived at the last steep accent but there was no way I could run it, so as I walked as fast as I could, the virtual partner caught me up and was in the lead. I reached to level road, only 800 feet to go. All I wanted to do was walk to the end but I was determined to beat my watch. I plodded on in pain to the finish arriving 2 seconds after that relentless virtual partner. Next time I will give him a handicap. The strange thing with the end of this run was that normally I am counting down the miles, which seem to go slower and slower, but this time it all went really quickly.
I wolfed down my pie and peas and drank some electrolytes before heading home. I had got some sun burn, but the biggest worry now is my knee. It still hurts to walk but I have faith that it will heal quickly. The only down side is that I planned to enter the Hardmoors 55 in two weeks time, but I now have a fear that the wear on my body will prevent me from doing the Highland Fling Race and the LDWA 100, which are my main focus points at the moment. I will give some time for recovery before deciding on my next move.
The event did not start till 9:30am so I didn’t have to get up at 4am like most events. With only 1.5 hour drive I arrived at Greetland All Rounders Rugby Club at 9am and prepared to leave. The weather was perfect, with blue skies, not a cloud in sight, temperatures around -4 degrees but with the promise of rising to 5 or 6 degrees. With a last minute decision to ditch my fleece, I was off.
The first couple of miles flew by as I meandered my way down to Rochdale Canal. With a brief visit through Sowerby Bridge, the canal was marginally uninspiring with a 3.5 mile section of straight flat footpath. I could see the hills all around and was looking forward to getting some elevation. At the end of the canal section there was a check point before the first small accent through Luddenden Foot up to Moor End where the second check point was located. With 7.3 mile done, I was feeling good and my legs were feeling fresh.
A mile into the next stage and I started feeling a sharp pain in the outside of my left knee. It was bearable and was not affecting my running so I continued on without too much thought. The bulk of the walkers were around this point and they all looked happy with the spectacular weather we were having. The temperature was rising but a cold breeze kept my cool with stunning views. I continued on along tracks and quiet country roads before following the Calderdale Way Trail. The route follows the trail to a check point at Ripponden, where the 15 mile route would travel back to the start and the 30 mile route would head in the opposite direction.
The opposite direction turned out to be one of the steepest roads I have ventured on, although it was over with quickly. I got to talking with another runner at this point but the pain in my knee was reaching new levels of pain. I had to say good bye and fall back with frequent stretching and rubbing. I knew it would not do it any good to continue running but I powered on. Through further tracks and country roads, I reach the next check point at Baitings Reservoir.
There was a huge cheese butty with my name on it at this check point and I walked across the dam trying to eat it as fast as possible. My knee was really hurting now but I was too occupied looking up at the hill I was about to climb. The next part of the route when up onto Rishworth Moor, which contoured around the top before arriving at Green Withens Reservoir where there was another check point.
The next section was all downhill and my knee was slowing me down to a crawl. Whenever there was a sharper pain spike than the one previous, I would make a strange grunting noise through my teeth and nose. I let gravity get me down before reaching the A672 which I followed closely before reaching the next check point at Booth Wood Reservoir.
I immediately went the wrong way after this check point but was helped back on track by a walker whom was many years my senior but still going stronger than all but a handful of the remaining walkers who set off at 8am that morning. I passed under the M62 and started my slow accent of Deanhead Moor at which point the sun was baking hot. I started feeling a bit dehydrated and my energy levels were depleting. I passed the last of the walkers before arriving at Deanhead Reservoir, where I arrived at and followed Scammonden Water to the next check point.
I had hit a low point now but knew that there was only around 5 to 6 miles left to go. The pain in my knee was slowing me down and I just wanted to get back. I decided to eat all my remaining food in one last effort for more energy and set off under the M62 once again before meandering down the valley back to the finish. I was to be completely on my own for the remainder of event apart from the virtual partner on my Garmin watch. I had given him a slow time but he had caught me up. He was under my feet and I used it to push on, so I ran the complete remainder of the route. Despite there being short steep accents, ankle deep mud, stiles, traffic on the road, the virtual partner was relentless and ploughed on through it all. I finally managed to get ahead of him and held a lead. I was so close I could see the finish at the top of the last steep hill. I arrived at the last steep accent but there was no way I could run it, so as I walked as fast as I could, the virtual partner caught me up and was in the lead. I reached to level road, only 800 feet to go. All I wanted to do was walk to the end but I was determined to beat my watch. I plodded on in pain to the finish arriving 2 seconds after that relentless virtual partner. Next time I will give him a handicap. The strange thing with the end of this run was that normally I am counting down the miles, which seem to go slower and slower, but this time it all went really quickly.
I wolfed down my pie and peas and drank some electrolytes before heading home. I had got some sun burn, but the biggest worry now is my knee. It still hurts to walk but I have faith that it will heal quickly. The only down side is that I planned to enter the Hardmoors 55 in two weeks time, but I now have a fear that the wear on my body will prevent me from doing the Highland Fling Race and the LDWA 100, which are my main focus points at the moment. I will give some time for recovery before deciding on my next move.
Thursday, 4 March 2010
Not for Nothing 50
My next long run was the Not for Nothing 50, a 50 mile event exploring parts of Norfolk. The week leading up to the event was a nightmare. I went for my usual 10 mile morning run on the Sunday, in crisp white snow. About 6.5 miles into the run I felt a sharp pain in my Achilles tendon which stopped me on the spot. I managed to walk and hobble my way back home but the pain did not go. I guessed it was either an inflammation or rupture, an inflammation being ok, a rupture being at least 3 months off running to heal. I rested and iced it all week noticing a reduction in pain each day and decided to just run the 50 and hope for the best.
I drove down to Norfolk on the Friday night and stayed at a campsite so I wouldn’t have a 3.5 hour drive starting at 5am in the morning. It was hammering down with rain and the wind was rocking the car. I woke at 6am and could not sleep again, so I packed my bag and got ready. The start of the event was at a hall in Hanworth. All the walkers had left an hour earlier and only a dozen of runners were waiting to start. At 9am the first couple of runners started to leave and although I had planned to leave last, I wanted to start my journey with no more delay.
The first section was from Hanworth to Cromer (7.2 miles). It was not raining at this point but there was dampness in the air that threatened rain. I started running with another runner in front of me for the first mile or two but let him go as I wanted to keep a slower pace. I ran along sleepy roads and farm fields before arriving at the National Trust’s Felbrigg Hall. Off in the distance I could hear a strange noise up ahead, which got louder until I finally could see hundreds of sheep all bleating like crazy. Another runner had appeared from a track ahead of me and I found it amusing the way the sheep all charged for him as he ran by. When I arrived, they all turned and started for me, keeping their distance by only a couple of feet as I took the long way around, they only chased me to a cattle grid before calling it a day and turned to wait for the next runner. The rest of the way to Cromer was uneventful and I finally arrived at the first check point where I had some orange juice and a biscuit.
The next section was from Cromer to Southrepps (5.9 miles) following the Paston Way as close as possible. When I left the check point I passed all the runners coming the other way, which means we were all going a similar pace of 10 min/miles. It was raining on and off now and I made my way out the maze of street in Cromer and followed along the cliff edge towards Overstrand. The last section I was completely on my own but now I was passing lots of walkers. Everything was going smoothly so far. The pain in my Achilles was only a dull throb and the weather was holding up. It was at around 11.3 miles I had a bit of a problem. I went the wrong way. I took a track without looking at the map and when I finally looked at it, it was obvious I was off course and I found where I was instantly. I could have turned around but thought I would be too demoralizing, so I opted for a slightly longer route which would get me back on track. When I finally arrived at the next check point, there were some walkers and a hand full of runners leaving. I quickly grabbed a couple of jam sandwiches, a penguin bar and a digestive biscuit before heading off again.
Next section was from Southrepps to a car park in Bacton Wood (7.6 miles). I continued to pass more walkers and made my way along tracks and across muddy fields. The weather was changing between rain and sun, which meant that it was either too wet or too hot. I was being careful not to make any more navigational errors and was taking my time. The walkers were thinning out at this stage with only a couple of very fast walkers. Just before I reached the check point I passed the leading walkers, who I all met at the end finding that they finished with incredible times between 13 and 14 hours. That was not far off my time and I was running (well I was doing the motions anyway). I arrived at the check point which was a tent serving soup and more biscuits. Two runners were just leaving and as I refilled my water and chatted to the check point volunteers, a hand full of people checked in and out, including the lead walker. I got my ass in gear and left.
I left Bacton Wood check point and headed for my next destination, the Church Rooms at Coltishall (11.3 miles). I noticed that I was lacking in a bit of energy at this point and feeling rougher than I would have liked but I maintained a good plod. I caught up with the two runners who were the ones leaving the previous check point and another runner caught up from behind (he would have been ahead but have made a few wrong turns resulting in a extra 4 or so miles at this point). We stuck in this group for the most of the way thought this section although I was trailing behind and periodically caught up when they slowed to eat. I was starting the hit the wall and I knew it. It was a long section but I knew there would be hot food at the next check point and I would have completed 32 miles in total. I made sure that I kept drinking and eating as much as possible and made the decision to start popping Pro Plus tablets. This section was starting to drag and I knew it was because I was feeling rough. I could finally see Coltishall in the distance but I was feeling dehydrated and dizzy. I finally lost sight of the other runners as I slowed and just kept pushing. When I finally arrived at the check point the rain had stopped and the sun was out, but I felt rough. I quickly sat down at a table and was served some soup which I wolfed down with lots of salt. The two runners I have been with previously were leaving but I decided to rest a while before heading out again, so I used the time to reorganize the food and gear in my bag. I refilled with water and had a last minute rice pudding before making my way out. There were lots of runners coming into the check point now and some leaving so after about 30 minutes of rest I set off.
The next section was from Coltishall to Great Wood car park (11.3 miles) and I ran along Bure Valley Path, passing through Aylsham. I could see it was a long straight path and needed some motivation, so I put on my mp3 and just kept running. I had picked up from my low and found that I could maintain a run the whole way. A couple of runners went past me, and I knew my speed was not all it could be but I was out for an adventure and not to race, so I plodded on. At Aylsham there was a surprise check point providing more food and water which was great of the organizers as it helps to break up the long section with a focal point. I was still feeling good but felt dehydrated, so I made an effort to keep taking small regular sips of water. The only problem was that at this stage I found that I could not keep the water in, and had to make regular stops. Past Aylsham and black clouds were looming and the rain started. I finally left the Bure Valley Path and still felt good, figuring that I could still make for around 10 hours if I keep pushing. In the next 3 miles everything turned to shit. I felt so dehydrated and was starting to get really dizzy. I just could not stop going for a pee. The light faded just before I reached to check point and I was feeling rough although with only 7 miles to go felt like I could make it. Within 2 minutes of stopping at the check point I thought I was going to pass out. I was really dizzy and started feeling extremely rough. I cannot explain exactly how I felt but it was worse than any sickness bug, any fever, anything I have felt before. I was too worried to attempt the next section in the dark because I thought I would pass out. I was sitting for a while before I have to make a very quick trip into the woods for a toilet stop which didn’t help issues. My mouth was so dry I figured it must be dehydration. I was all but ready to call it quits. There had been a few runner go through the check point but it was when three people walked it in that I asked if I could tag along with them. I honestly thought I was going to pass out somewhere on the route. They said they were going slow so I tagged along. I have no idea how long I was at the check point but it was a long time.
Great Wood to Hanworth (6.9 miles). The four of us in our little group basically walked the whole of the last section with a little bit of trotting now and then. It seemed to take forever. I kept talking to the others to try and take my mind off my pending doom. I did not feel any worse while running but was happy to walk. We slowly made our way in the dark, with stronger rain showers now and very wet and muddy fields. There is nothing much more to say about this section other than I was counting down the miles till the end and I still could not stop peeing. I was trying to work out why I felt so ill and how it hit me so hard. Did I not drink enough? Did I drink too much? Did I need to eat more? We finally arrived back at the hall in Hanworth. 50 miles in 11 hours 44 minutes. My legs were fresh as anything but I felt like death. After going for a pee twice more, I had a fry-up of bacon, sausages, egg, beans and toast. I started to feel a bit better after half an hour and peed some more. I decided to stick around until 10pm before heading back for a shower at the camp site. It was great talking with some of the lead walkers and I am amazed at the quick times they did it in. I finally ran back to the car in the rain with fresh legs.
The end of this run is very similar to my last run along Hadrian’s Wall Path. After lots of though on the subject I have decided to formulate my running strategy to identify what is going wrong. My number 1 though at the moment is that I have been taking lots of Pro Plus (only on the last two big runs) and think the diuretic effect of the caffeine could be causing my to dehydrate or causing other problems. I will lay off them for now and see how I go next time. Glad that my Achilles problem has faded away, I am set now for my next run. I am very thankful to those who I completed the last section with. Without them I probably would have pull out and would have suffered major regret. I own them this 50.
I drove down to Norfolk on the Friday night and stayed at a campsite so I wouldn’t have a 3.5 hour drive starting at 5am in the morning. It was hammering down with rain and the wind was rocking the car. I woke at 6am and could not sleep again, so I packed my bag and got ready. The start of the event was at a hall in Hanworth. All the walkers had left an hour earlier and only a dozen of runners were waiting to start. At 9am the first couple of runners started to leave and although I had planned to leave last, I wanted to start my journey with no more delay.
The first section was from Hanworth to Cromer (7.2 miles). It was not raining at this point but there was dampness in the air that threatened rain. I started running with another runner in front of me for the first mile or two but let him go as I wanted to keep a slower pace. I ran along sleepy roads and farm fields before arriving at the National Trust’s Felbrigg Hall. Off in the distance I could hear a strange noise up ahead, which got louder until I finally could see hundreds of sheep all bleating like crazy. Another runner had appeared from a track ahead of me and I found it amusing the way the sheep all charged for him as he ran by. When I arrived, they all turned and started for me, keeping their distance by only a couple of feet as I took the long way around, they only chased me to a cattle grid before calling it a day and turned to wait for the next runner. The rest of the way to Cromer was uneventful and I finally arrived at the first check point where I had some orange juice and a biscuit.
The next section was from Cromer to Southrepps (5.9 miles) following the Paston Way as close as possible. When I left the check point I passed all the runners coming the other way, which means we were all going a similar pace of 10 min/miles. It was raining on and off now and I made my way out the maze of street in Cromer and followed along the cliff edge towards Overstrand. The last section I was completely on my own but now I was passing lots of walkers. Everything was going smoothly so far. The pain in my Achilles was only a dull throb and the weather was holding up. It was at around 11.3 miles I had a bit of a problem. I went the wrong way. I took a track without looking at the map and when I finally looked at it, it was obvious I was off course and I found where I was instantly. I could have turned around but thought I would be too demoralizing, so I opted for a slightly longer route which would get me back on track. When I finally arrived at the next check point, there were some walkers and a hand full of runners leaving. I quickly grabbed a couple of jam sandwiches, a penguin bar and a digestive biscuit before heading off again.
Next section was from Southrepps to a car park in Bacton Wood (7.6 miles). I continued to pass more walkers and made my way along tracks and across muddy fields. The weather was changing between rain and sun, which meant that it was either too wet or too hot. I was being careful not to make any more navigational errors and was taking my time. The walkers were thinning out at this stage with only a couple of very fast walkers. Just before I reached the check point I passed the leading walkers, who I all met at the end finding that they finished with incredible times between 13 and 14 hours. That was not far off my time and I was running (well I was doing the motions anyway). I arrived at the check point which was a tent serving soup and more biscuits. Two runners were just leaving and as I refilled my water and chatted to the check point volunteers, a hand full of people checked in and out, including the lead walker. I got my ass in gear and left.
I left Bacton Wood check point and headed for my next destination, the Church Rooms at Coltishall (11.3 miles). I noticed that I was lacking in a bit of energy at this point and feeling rougher than I would have liked but I maintained a good plod. I caught up with the two runners who were the ones leaving the previous check point and another runner caught up from behind (he would have been ahead but have made a few wrong turns resulting in a extra 4 or so miles at this point). We stuck in this group for the most of the way thought this section although I was trailing behind and periodically caught up when they slowed to eat. I was starting the hit the wall and I knew it. It was a long section but I knew there would be hot food at the next check point and I would have completed 32 miles in total. I made sure that I kept drinking and eating as much as possible and made the decision to start popping Pro Plus tablets. This section was starting to drag and I knew it was because I was feeling rough. I could finally see Coltishall in the distance but I was feeling dehydrated and dizzy. I finally lost sight of the other runners as I slowed and just kept pushing. When I finally arrived at the check point the rain had stopped and the sun was out, but I felt rough. I quickly sat down at a table and was served some soup which I wolfed down with lots of salt. The two runners I have been with previously were leaving but I decided to rest a while before heading out again, so I used the time to reorganize the food and gear in my bag. I refilled with water and had a last minute rice pudding before making my way out. There were lots of runners coming into the check point now and some leaving so after about 30 minutes of rest I set off.
The next section was from Coltishall to Great Wood car park (11.3 miles) and I ran along Bure Valley Path, passing through Aylsham. I could see it was a long straight path and needed some motivation, so I put on my mp3 and just kept running. I had picked up from my low and found that I could maintain a run the whole way. A couple of runners went past me, and I knew my speed was not all it could be but I was out for an adventure and not to race, so I plodded on. At Aylsham there was a surprise check point providing more food and water which was great of the organizers as it helps to break up the long section with a focal point. I was still feeling good but felt dehydrated, so I made an effort to keep taking small regular sips of water. The only problem was that at this stage I found that I could not keep the water in, and had to make regular stops. Past Aylsham and black clouds were looming and the rain started. I finally left the Bure Valley Path and still felt good, figuring that I could still make for around 10 hours if I keep pushing. In the next 3 miles everything turned to shit. I felt so dehydrated and was starting to get really dizzy. I just could not stop going for a pee. The light faded just before I reached to check point and I was feeling rough although with only 7 miles to go felt like I could make it. Within 2 minutes of stopping at the check point I thought I was going to pass out. I was really dizzy and started feeling extremely rough. I cannot explain exactly how I felt but it was worse than any sickness bug, any fever, anything I have felt before. I was too worried to attempt the next section in the dark because I thought I would pass out. I was sitting for a while before I have to make a very quick trip into the woods for a toilet stop which didn’t help issues. My mouth was so dry I figured it must be dehydration. I was all but ready to call it quits. There had been a few runner go through the check point but it was when three people walked it in that I asked if I could tag along with them. I honestly thought I was going to pass out somewhere on the route. They said they were going slow so I tagged along. I have no idea how long I was at the check point but it was a long time.
Great Wood to Hanworth (6.9 miles). The four of us in our little group basically walked the whole of the last section with a little bit of trotting now and then. It seemed to take forever. I kept talking to the others to try and take my mind off my pending doom. I did not feel any worse while running but was happy to walk. We slowly made our way in the dark, with stronger rain showers now and very wet and muddy fields. There is nothing much more to say about this section other than I was counting down the miles till the end and I still could not stop peeing. I was trying to work out why I felt so ill and how it hit me so hard. Did I not drink enough? Did I drink too much? Did I need to eat more? We finally arrived back at the hall in Hanworth. 50 miles in 11 hours 44 minutes. My legs were fresh as anything but I felt like death. After going for a pee twice more, I had a fry-up of bacon, sausages, egg, beans and toast. I started to feel a bit better after half an hour and peed some more. I decided to stick around until 10pm before heading back for a shower at the camp site. It was great talking with some of the lead walkers and I am amazed at the quick times they did it in. I finally ran back to the car in the rain with fresh legs.
The end of this run is very similar to my last run along Hadrian’s Wall Path. After lots of though on the subject I have decided to formulate my running strategy to identify what is going wrong. My number 1 though at the moment is that I have been taking lots of Pro Plus (only on the last two big runs) and think the diuretic effect of the caffeine could be causing my to dehydrate or causing other problems. I will lay off them for now and see how I go next time. Glad that my Achilles problem has faded away, I am set now for my next run. I am very thankful to those who I completed the last section with. Without them I probably would have pull out and would have suffered major regret. I own them this 50.
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