Festive excesses

I can't believe how long it has been since my last blog but life has been a bit crazy recently.  Work has been extremely busy while I've been spinning a lot of plates,  preparing for Christmas, social functions and fitting in some training while trying not to get injured by slipping on the ice.
The ice has been a regular feature recently and there have been some close ones.  The other week at Chatelherault it was like an ice rink causing one of the runners to fall a couple of times.  One slip could put you out of action for months and I want my physio budget to be significantly less in 2018!
Yesterday's run at Chatelherault was hellish.  Normally it starts to get tough three quarters of the way round but I was feeling it before half way and knew I was in trouble.  I was breathing through my bum and my heart rate was racing.  It was probably the excess wine and food over the last few days and a lack of sleep.  The proof of the pudding (literally) is that yesterday after my run I had an hours sleep and much less food and wine.  I also had 10 hours sleep.
So today I headed out for the same run as the day before.  I'd sorted my heart rate monitor which I haven't used for the last 5 months.  I flew round the lap, breathing was good and I completed the lap 2 minutes quicker than the day before.  Is it a coincidence?
I've been gradually regaining my weight since G2G but in December it has kept going north and I'm not happy.  But I realise that it's just what happens at this time of year to me when I don't have an early season race planned.  By 2nd January I'll have the gym build in my garage and the hard work will start.  The miles will start building and I'll be back on the turbo and in the pool.
I hope you've all had a wonderful Christmas and are looking forward to a healthy and prosperous 2018.  Set your goals high and go chase them.  Have fun along they way.

Winter gear

One of the things I like about this time of year is buying new winter gear.   And as it was my birthday I had the perfect excuse.  The boxes arrived and I was excited to try on my new high viz running jacket along with my new tights - but the weather turned mild and they were too warm!  The same happened today so I'll just have to wait till the rain, snow or frost arrives as it did the week before.
I added 2 additional shorter runs this week where I pushed the pace.  I don't enjoy doing that when I'm not back to fitness but it gets me there.  Both longer runs this weekend were quicker than last and I'll take that as a sign of progress.
I'm threatening to get back in the pool but have decided to use a pool boy so I can build my upper body while working on breathing exercises.  This in turn will improve my core and my running. Still haven't made it onto the turbo trainer but there will be plenty of time for that over the holidays.
My aim in December is to get more training sessions in per week and to avoid the excesses where possible. The real hard word starts in January and by then I will have confirmed by race schedule for 2018.  I'm excited just thinking about it.

Extreme training

The title of this post may be slightly misleading but you'll get the point quickly.  It feels like the season "to be jolly" but that's like Black Friday, a bit early.  This week has been really busy from a work point of view and I've had 5 days (well 4 but the fifth is just about to start) of socialising!
On Wednesday I was at a conference in Harrogate which involved a long day and too many liquid carbs.  Early train to London and a dinner with clients and those liquid carbs reappeared.  Early start to fly back hope and dinner with friends, and you guessed it, excessive liquid carbs.
Early start on Saturday then off to Chatelherault for the usual run with my pals.  I may have improved my time by 50 secs to complete the lap in 45 min dead, but I was in no fit state to hold a conversation for at least 5 minutes.  I had to dig really hard and that's the point of this extreme training.  An 8k run can feel like an ultra marathon because my body was wrecked from the previous three days.
You'd think I'd learn.
I cooked a delicious rib eye steak on Saturday night so that had to be accompanied by some red wine - it would have been a waste of a steak if there was no wine!  This morning I had a wee bit of a lie in, I needed it, but then headed out in a crispy cold morning for a 10k run.  My time was down on last week and in part this was down to the icy conditions - I was like bambie on ice and couldn't push off too hard without slipping.  But my physical condition also slowed me down but I battled through it.  Feeling crap and out of breath is something that normally happens on longer runs but I got to deal with this on a short run.
It's not a training schedule I'd recommend but at this time of year the social events can mount up.  I'm now just heading out for what will probably turn into another carb loading session with some pals.  But after this one I'll behave more like an athlete and limit the carb loading on consecutive days (5 in a row!).  Just goes to show I'm not always well behaved although as I've tried to justify above, I was only trying to improve my endurance!

Life after grand 2 grand

I'm still trying to get over that something I'd planned for 2 years is over - but the "shockwaves continue".  I've never entered a major event before and managed to avoid the "after event blues" which you plummet into once the uphoria is over.  But G2G isn't your average event.
I crossed the finishline on 30th September and am still buzzing.  Facebook is a wonderful thing as the "family" are in touch on a regular basis.  Sharing the stories of what they have been up to and what the future holds. 2019 I hope to hook up with some of my running mates for another adventure.
But life back in the Scotland gets back to normal and having had my recovery period, training is starting.  But this is an interesting psychological phase.  Daylight hours are short.  The temperature has dropped and early morning is zero degrees at best so getting out of bed has proved difficult other than going to work.  My core strength is non-existent and I'm starting to put weight back on which was much needed - 5lbs on but the wrong type of weight.  I'll sort that over the next couple of months.
I've just started my core training and I can honestly say, my core is AWOL.  I'm being careful as my back gets twitchy - it really doesn't like core workouts!  But this is critical to my training and once I have a few sessions under my belt, I'll be ok.  Starting training is always a "ball ache" but I know that when I look back in three months time I'll be feeling the benefit of the core training.
On 2nd Dec I start back with my amazing coach Genevieve and she's already getting her ideas together.  We ran together on Saturday but with 3 km to go she dropped me and I had to dig in deep to finish.  My time was bang on target so I was happy although I'd had to work hard.
Today I went out for a 10km run in zero degrees and enjoyed every minute of it.  The pace was ok and I felt good after it.  I showered and then headed out to join some work colleagues in a 6 KM Santa Dash which was a laugh.  But the body and mind is holding up.
I've decided that the only way I am going to run in the morning is to drive into work early and then head out from the office for a run.  At least there are street lights so I don't have the problem of running in the dark and I have a shower back in the office before I start work.  A few weeks of that and I'll be back in the grove.
But what amazes me is that I have no post race blues and that is down to the fact I'm part of the G2G family and the feel good factor continues.  I'm happy to miss out the post race blues however am looking.forward to getting back in shape.  There is life after G2G but it's changed me, for the better.

Treading on thin ice

The biggest change in the last two weeks since my last report has been the weather.  Autumn/winter has definitely set in.  I was going to do some turbo training in the last two weeks but couldn't muster the mental strength to go outside into my "man cave" where it would be freezing and start spinning my legs.  There was also a slightly delicate part of my anatomy, a result of G2G, which wouldn't have appreciated it but I'm glad to say that has cleared up so I've no excuses now!
My back is still getting treated although it is getting better.  I've managed 3 runs in the last 2 weeks.  Last weekend I ran 4.5km with a stop at half way for a cup of tea and a scone, jam and cream - my coach did say to break myself in gently.
Yesterday I went back to my favourite winter training ground, Chatelherault.  I ran around on a brilliant autumn day but kept it to one lap.  I was a couple of minutes behind my friends but my lungs were struggling towards the end of the 8k.  I had no aches and pains when I woke up today so I went out for a 7km run around my local streets.  It was freezing and the roads and pavements were covered in ice so I considered myself luck no to end up on my bum.  A good reminder to be careful out there and also to wear gloves!
I'm hoping this will be my last visit to the physio for my back and I will be starting my swimming, core training and turbo training - honest.  Just knowing that I will be reporting back in 2 weeks on this blog means I can't be lazy.  The clock is ticking and my "A race" next year gets closer as each day passes.

What's next?

A month has passed since I crossed the line of the best staged race ever - Grand 2 Grand.  A day doesn't pass without me thinking about the race, the conditions, the daily challenges and the friends I made with the amazing volunteers and the competitors.  I've followed my coaches advice of no training for a month and during that time I've been to the chiropractor, physio and sports massage therapist.  My back has a couple of niggles but I expected that due to the weight of my rucksack (25lbs + 1.5 litres of water) and the fact I couldn't load my rucksack in training due to my foot injury.
The question I keep getting asked is what next?  Before the race I had deliberately not given any thought to the next race because with my foot injury, this could have been my last race!  However my foot was fine during the race and it obviously likes the heat - it's been grumbling since coming home.
But a competitor planted an idea in my head before leaving the USA.  He suggested a race in 2019, the Tahoe 200 (www.tahoe200.com).  205.5 miles in the mountains around Lake Tahoe. 35,117 ft of climbing and the same in descent.  The cut off is 100 hours which means very little sleep during the race which will be completely new to me both physically and mentally.  Registration isn't for a year and is limited to 250 competitors.  My training for this started today and once again it's about getting to the startline in the best shape possible for a race completely different to any I've done before.
Today I started my training with a light session in the pool.  1,100m was enough for me and I've got the physio tomorrow who will sort out the muscular discomfort in my back.  To help with my swimming I am going on a full day course on Saturday.  Robert Hamilton is running a Total Immersion course and I really want to become a more effecient swimmer as this will help me enjoy it more.  The strength and breathing benefit I get from swimming makes it an important part of my training.  It also takes some of the pressure off my body from my running.
As far as the 2018 season I've decided my "A race" will be the Great Glen Ultra which is a 71 mile ultra to be completed in 22 hours or less.  It's on 7 July and my training schedule will be designed around it.  71 miles will be my longest run in a single stage and ideal preparation for the Tahoe 200.  I'm looking for at least one 70.3 IM to encourage my cross training but will discuss the timing of it with my coach.
Looking forward to reintroducing my bum to the bike saddle as I will be starting some light turbo training.  I'll leave my running until my back is ok.
I have TRX bands arriving at the house tomorrow so that will be a key part to building my core strength.  I'm back and looking forward to some different training over the winter to set me up for 2018.  Remember a goal without a plan is just a wish.  I'm back and will be blogging on a fortnightly basis if you want to follow my journey.

Grand 2 Grand Ultra 2017 report

Two days ago I completed the G2G ultra and although I gave short daily updates, I thought a more detailed description was required to capture the essence of this unbelievable and unique event.  You may not run, or run 5/10k or a marathon or even complete ironman events, but a multi stage self supported race is very different.  Let me explain what I went through and then describe some of the heroic efforts I withnessed in this race.
Like any "race" there are different type of competitors; the pro's who do this for a living, the extremely fit runners who are going to push the limits and those where completion is what it's all about.  I certainly fitted into the last category due to my injuries over the last year and was fortunate to be making the start line but with no guarantee that I'd finish.
The event was at altitude and normally you need three weeks to adapt but I went out 5 days before to at least lose the jet lag and get used to the heat.  I stayed in Kanab (little Hollywood) and had a ball.  The locals were so friendly and welcoming.  I met competitors as they started to arrive from all over the world and despite going out on my own, before I left the airport I had met Frank from Chicago and then Dirk from South Africa (who came 6th overall).  We then met Steve from California and Kelsey Hogan a 22 year old ball of energy from Canada who was attempting a staged race for the first time - and came 2nd woman - all within the first 2 days.  Then there was the JAR of Hope team raising money and awareness for Jim's terminally ill son.  They inspired all the competitors during the race.
On Saturday 23rd we travelled out to the starting camp on the north rim of the Grand Canyon.  The views were breath taking - literally!  Our first night under canvas was cold and windy and this would continue throught the week with temperatures as low as -4.  My rucksack weighed 25 lbs (too heavy) and this was partly due to my heavy duty sleeping bag which was essential.  You sleep in an 8 person tent and the ground was uneven, rocky in places and covered in vegetation which meant there wasn't  one night where I was lying flat!  Getting a good sleep and not spending the night shivering impacts on your race.  You also have the "people dynamic" but I'm glad to say the Comanche tent had no
issues as we all worked together.
My stage 1 race strategy was simple.  Start slow and avoid blisters if possible - in MdS I had 7 blisters in the first 2 days.  We were all excited by the long pink mountain range we followed however 5 miles short of the 31 miles distance (73% hard packed dirt) our eyes were drawn to the campsite that didn't seem to get closer, while avoiding the cacti that were threatening a painful injury (27% of the stage was cacti) - I snagged one but managed to get the thorns out without too much pain.  When I got back to my tent, decided which lumpy spot I wanted, treated my feet, had a recovery protein drink plus a salt drink then I headed to the cyber tent to send my blog for publishing to my wife.  Back to the tent to prepare some freeze dried food and then it was 7pm and time to relax.  Most nights I'd be in my sleeping bag by 8pm and asleep for 9.30.  This was my daily process.
Stage 2 was "only" 27 miles but it was harder due to the highest point being at nearly 7,000 ft.  We were woken by the music at 6am (as we were every morning except the last) and had to have fed ourselves, been to the loo and be packed and ready by 7.30 - this was our daily ritual. Granola with nuts and raisins was my chosen breakfast but we all soon became sick of what we brought and swapping/trading was going on.  You don't get a meal during the day so you snacked on nuts, raisins, cliff bars, power bars, gels and sports beans.  Not the healthiest diet but it's all about the calories.  Stage 2 is about making it to the long day And I came through without any injury - Ian Dalton on the other hand came in doubled over and slumped to the side with an injured back.  But he made it.
Stage 3 had the most casualties including Andy Salamone who had run with me the day before. It was 53 miles but if you wanted you could get a tent to sleep in at check point 6, 39.7 miles or checkpoint 7, 45.5 miles.  Had Mark Davids and I known what was coming after CP 6 we'd have camped for the night.  Just over 3 miles of sand dunes in the dark and these were no ordinary sand dunes. Some were 4 stories high where footprints were immediately covered with the drifting sand.  At times we were on all fours gasping for breath - my poles were sinking 2/3 feet deep.  At the foot of the biggest dune I wondered what would happen if I couldn't get to the top and was contemplating pulling out my sleeping bag and going to sleep.  We also had to navigate our way in the dark looking for the small pink flags with a strip that lit up when your headlight caught it.  This was the hardest leg workout ever and I'd already been going for 14 hours.  The section after it was horrible.  We were trying to plot our way in the dark through scrub land which we called "the devils garden".  Trying not to get lost by spotting the pink ribbons  while trying not to step on a cactus or worse a snake and my gators were shredded by the end of this stage meaning the dreaded sand was filling my shoes.  Mark and I pressed on and finished the stage at 4.20am having been on the go for over 20 hours - straight to bed  for 4 hours sleep.
Having completed the long stage I had a day off.  A day to eat, sleep, stretch and repair my feet.  I had both feet taped on day 2 due to a hotspot and also a possible blister.  Once the cut off was reached we found out there had been 20 drop out of the race including an amazing 76 year old who had survived the first two days.  Some heroes started to emerge - Ian Dalton was still going with  his back problem, Alexandre Marion had twisted his ankle on day 2 and despite being up like a balloon he had managed through the stage.  Yori Lewis had a bad knee and a hamstring problem and I wouldn't believe he'd even started the stage but he crawled in early morning.  This stage (76% soft sand)
had almost broken me but there were competitors who had serious issues getting through it which inspired us all.
By Stage 4 , a 26 mile marathon, I couldn't face my food.  Fortunately I had brought some freeze dried deserts but that didn't offer any protein.  I ran with another competitor Richard Revell who was suffering a serious amount of pain below his knee so we spurred each other on.  My pinkie toe was starting to throb but I could hardly complain based on the other more serious injuries.  However when I got back to camp the nail was almost off and it was very tender so the medical staff patched it up.  That night it was -4 during the night so waking up having had a disturbed nights sleep and getting ready for another Marathon didn't make me happy.
The course on stage 5 was interesting at the beginning as we went trough "Peek-a-boo" slot canyon which was fun and I'm looking forward to seeing the photos but thereafter it was a tedious stage and a drag.  Richard and I slogged it out together and it made such a difference having someone to help when you reached the inevitable dark/low points.  We crossed the line together and a few tears were shed as we realised we were going to finish the job tomorrow but that didn't prepare us for what we'd witness hours later.
Word had got back to the tent that Brian Bartaby (known as Bart) was raising money for the "walking with the wounded" and he was in trouble and might not make the cut off.  The whole campsite was waiting for him at the finish and he was going at a snails pace.  The organisers had sent a medic out to walk with him but he might not make the cut off.   When his head torch came round the corner the camp erupted.  Cowbells ringing and "we are the champions" baring out of the speakers.  When he crossed the line everyone must have had sand in their eyes as there were tears everywhere .  But obviously his race was over - or was it? Alexandre and Yori were both back safely although the pain in the faces told you it hadn't been easy.
The race was effectively over for most people unless they could make up some places on Stage 6 which was only 12km - and 836m of ascent!  Unbelievably they sent Bart out at 7am with the slower competitors, I went off with Richard at 8am and the fast ones at 9am.  We went as fast as we could on the flattish section while the temperature was low.  30  minutes in we came across Bart who'd been going for 1.5 hours and he was been held up and fed by Mark Davids.  We offered some  encouragement and headed off thinking the medics would be picking him up soon.  As we weren't trying for a place we took in what turned out to be the best scenery coming up the hoodoos that make up the Pink Cliffs.  The finish line was amazing and my long suffering wife was there to greet me with all the competitors making as much noise as possible.  Immediately I was eating pizza and drinking coke, hugging my wife and the world was good.
Yori Lewis made it across the line  - when I asked him how he coped with the sand dunes he said he'd walked up them sideways!  Alexandre had made it and caught us all by surprise as he proposed to his girlfriend at the finish line - this is what had driven him on with what could be a fractured ankle at best.  Ian had made it getting through it with determination - a common trait among ultra runners. But everyone was waiting for Bart.  Word came back he was 1 mile away - it took him an hour before he approached the finish line (15 minutes for the last 400 yards) which had been lined by all the competitors to welcome home home.  Mark Davids and Mark Cox had given up their chance of a good time to assist their tent mate.  The competitors went mental as he crossed the line with, once again, "we are the champions" blasting out and was given a chair, a beer and some pizza.  These people were strangers a week ago!
Everyone was at the awards ceremony and Bart got to present two special prizes to Mark Davids and Mark Cox  who had sacrificed their time to help Bart complete G2G for his charity - not a dry eye in the 'house". Tess and Colin had brought together a bunch of strangers  and we'd  grown into an extended family.  I should of course mention the secret ingredient- the volunteers.  They were unbelievable.  Nothing was too much trouble and always done with a smile.  Thanks guys.
I started this blog to give you an insight into the different aspects of a multi day race and an insight into a very special one - G2G.  How waking up every day having slept, or not, under canvas with 7 other people who haven't washed or had a change of clothes so the smell gets unbearable yet you still race. There are no hot showers, comfy bed or change of clothes and doing 6 marathons in 7 days is hard on anyone's body.  You're carrying everything you need to survive in your rucksack.The freeze dried food presents a  challenge and despite all of this I think this is the ultimate style of race as you are "stripped naked" bringing out the real you.  Grand 2 Grand had a real family feel to it and with only 120 competitors you leave at the end of the week with lifetime friends.  My finishing place of 45th is almost irrelevant, although I am proud of it, but I  am more proud to have survived this epic event while raising money for Maggie's Cancer Centres and meeting the most amazing people who I can call my friends. Now for a rest and to put at least 10 lbs on!

Bloody Snake!

1. 
   It’s amazing how quickly the body recovers from heat, altitude and a couple of blisters. Yesterday after writing the blog the camp was entertained by cowboys demonstrating lassoing and then one sat round the camp fire and sang – fantastic helped by an ice cold can of coke.
   Felt good this morning except for a few muscular pains in my back and shoulder but did some stretches and popped some pills. It w...as only 26 miles today but the terrain dictated the pace with a total time around 7hrs 40 mins. I ran all day with Richard who I’d met in camp a few times and we made sure we got through it together.
   When we were going through the shrubs I spotted a rattler! It just cut in front of me making me stop in my tracks. I think the smell of me put it off. At one stage we had to use as rope to climb up a rock face and today did involve a number of climbs which at this altitude takes it out of you. I am so inspired by the runners out here. There are a number of injuries that would stop most people from walking never mind running including Richard who had great difficulty walking down hill – picture it! We’re down to 89 runners now from the original 125 and backs up how tough it is.
   One more marathon tomorrow then a short 7miles, all uphill on Saturday where Fiona will be at the finish line. That’s going to be special. I can’t wait for some decent real food and a beer….and a bottle of red wine……and a massage! The list could go on but I’m sure you get it. All the best to my friends that are doing or supporting IM Barcelona on Saturday.

Stage 5 & 6

I'm finished and sitting in a lovely double bed with clean sheets while typing this report.  A bit different from sitting is a sandy tent in deliberately small seats with a 15 minute time limit to post a message and a queue of people behind me, while my muscles as crying for a rest!
Stage 5
It was the last marathon and having finished strong yesterday I was looking forward to this one.  I decided to run again with Richard as having a running partner is really important for a few reasons.  One to make sure you don't get lost and the other to get you through the inevitable dark times.  When you are running through dried river beds your head is inevitably down trying not to trip on rocks, or stand on a cactus or even worse a snake, you can miss the tiny pink flags planted in the ground of the pink ribbon tied to a bush showing you the route.  Everyone got lost at some stage.
We headed off fast trying to take advantage of the cooler weather at 8am and also we knew we'd be going through some canyons that involved a ladder and a rope climb so we didn't want to get caught up on the rush.  My bag was probably down to about 19 pounds now so feeling "light" and not causing me so much pain.
The scenery was once again stunning and you had to take time to take it in.  Anyone who just kept there head down was in the wrong type of event and it did help with the pain.  This became the hottest day of the race and it took it's toll, especially on some of the climbs.  Richard struggled with the descents due to his leg injury and I was amazed how he persevered.  I don't know how he managed to get through the slot canyons as there was a lot of clambering required.  At one stage I must have dragged myself along withou saying a word for an hour on a long hot never ending dusty road and Richard was there just making sure I kept hydrating myself and staying a few feet ahead to encourage me - that's when you need a partner.
There was a video posted of us finishing the stage with me trying to hold onto him as we got to the finish line - we were in bits when we crossed it.  He went straight to the medical tent and I checked to see if my pinkie toe had actually come off - painful little bugger but fortunately no infection and the drugs helped.  Got weighed and had lost 10 pounds (project get the weight back on has started!).
Stage 6
Battered and bruised we got up for a staggered start with only 12km to do in the last day.  Effectively the race was over unless you were competing for places.  The slowest runners went ant 7, I was in the 8am group and the fast boys went at 9.  Richard and I decided to run together and went out as fast as we could.  I knew the terrain started off with a slight incline but would then get "silly steep" and we were doing well for the first half.  The second half was a walk with the altitude over 6,000 ft and as we weren't competing for places we took in the best views of the week - the pink cliffs of the Grand Staircase, something we'd been staring at for a week in the distance.
Even at this late stage we had to encourage each other to make it up the steep parts.  Just short of the finish line the winner came flying past us shortly followed by the 2nd place runner.  We could hear up ahead the crowd going mental and the cowbells ringing so we forgot our pain and ran it in.  A huge group of supporters and athletes were waiting going nuts and at the finish line was Fiona.  That thought had been in my head every day and to see her was very emotional.  The organisers gave us a hug and presented me with my Grand to Grand buckle which I will ware with pride.  I didn't waste any time in tucking into the pizza, coke, apples and bananas just behind the finish line.
This event isn't about positions and my next post will explain what it's really all about - there are some many heroic stories to share with you.  But for those interested, I was sitting overall 46th at the end of day 5 from a starting line up of 119 - with 26 DNFs.  I will have lost a few places on the last day but top half is always something I aim for in any event.  This is beyond my wildest dreams when in reality I was lucky to even make the startline.  Thanks for following my journey.  My next blog is going to give you a real flavour for the event before it all merges into one.  But first some R&R time with my number one supporter - Fiona.

The toughest day ever!

Having completed 58 miles in the previous two days, throwing in a double marathon is a bit cruel. The scenery was the best yet with pink canyons and massive cliffs but the route was BRUTAL. 20 people dropped out. It was reasonably warm but 75% of the course was soft sand. My pal from the day before couldn’t continue but I spent the majority of the day running/trekking with Mark. We encouraged each other during the dark periods and there were many.
The first marathon was tough but ok. But the second half was horrendous. My total time was 20 hours and 20 minutes and I finished at 4.20am when I had started at 8am. This was a huge success. There were many difficult sections where the soft sand sucked you into the ground – 75% of the course was soft sand. Then we hit the 5km stretch of sand dunes having been active for over 14 hours. Imagine your hardest leg session except you’ve already done 14 hours of exercise. It was pitch black and there were lights showing you the top of the sand dune – some were 4 stories high and you ended up on all fours clawing your way up. My poles helped but they were sinking 2 feet into the sand. On top of that I’m carrying 23 lbs on my back.
Later we went through the devils garden. Again in the dark negotiating through bush, cacti and other stuff. My gators were ripped to be bits which is going to be an issue in the next 2 marathon on Thur/Fri.
My body is holding up and subject to my shoes not filling with san every two minutes, I’m confident I’m going to bring this home. However just one misplaced foot and it can be over. This is the toughest even ever. I’ll expand on the stories when I get home but in the time allotted, that’s it for today. Cheers.

Shorter but harder!

At last I have Derek's day 2 blog based on how long they take to arrive next update likely to be Thursday.

Hard to believe but day 2 was 27 miles and harder than yesterday. So much is dictated by the terrain and near after 5 kg there was a climb of 500m. Not much you would think but at altitude higher than we have back home, with temperatures higher than back home and a 24 LB pack on my back – it was a good test. My hill training came in handy but the key is keeping m...y body temperature down or you can be in big trouble. There isn’t much shelter from the sun so this also dictates when you can run. It might be flat in places, and there were plenty of them but if you keep running then tomorrow might be an issue. And today is all about tomorrow.

I met a wonderful American guy called Andy and we stayed together the whole day which made it easier. The scenery once again was stunning making the pain in my shoulders slightly easier (along with the pain killers).
When I got back to the finish you are greeted by people cheering and a cow bell sounding. I rehydrated and went straight to the medical tent to get a couple of blisters seen to. The amazing thing is after 8 hours 30 mins unofficial time I know I’ll feel great in the morning because all I do now is put my feet up, rest, rehydrate and eat. Tomorrow is the big challenge. 53 Miles and I’m unsure how I will tackle it. Much will depend on how I feel. This is like no other race in that it’s as much about survival. The conditions are brutal. I won’t be sending a blog for a few days now as I’ll be having fun in the sand! Thanks for your messages of support.

Day 1 Race report

Sorry for the late post here is Derek's Day 1 report. I didn't get it before I flew to Vegas. Fiona

Before we get into the race, we were at camp on the north rim of the Canyon. We had a spectacular meal laid on for us before we went to bed at 8am. It was cold to star and went to minus during the night – it was freezing but my cosy sleeping bag worked.Up at 6am for the race and my first cold breakfast – it was ok. Today was 31 miles and it was a tough day. The heat built up as the day went on and with an 8am... start I tried to get in as many miles as possible before then heat took its toll. The altitude is a definite a factor as is the hard packed tracks, stones, and fine sand – it gets everywhere. Then there are the cactus which lurk in the ground. One of them snagged me and I had a few needles to pull out. My pack weighs 25 lb before you add 1.5 L of water. Too heavy but it makes sure I won’t be freezing or starving at night. The camp was 5 miles from the last check point but they kept taking you towards it then away from it – not nice. I finished in 8 hours and 20 mins (unofficial). Tomorrow is 27.5 miles and that leads up to the 53 mile long day so I’m sticking to my strategy of getting acclimatized and breaking myself in slowly. Only on heat spot which I treated so so far no blisters.Now for recovery. Salt drink taken, protein drink next. Feet up and rest before my first freeze dried food – can’t say I’m looking forward to that. This is an amazing race with stunning scenery but I’m told it only gets better from here.This probably won’t be posted till Tuesday as there is no signal at the camp and they have to save the emails then take them into town. It will be posted to Mrs Stewart who will then put it in the blog – assuming she isn’t at 35,000 feet!

Talk the talk, now let's walk the walk

It's 8.30 pm on Friday night and I'm tucked up in bed.  This will be the last night where I have a descent bed to sleep in as tomorrow night I will be under canvas in the Grand Canyon worrying about the contents of my rucksack and the weather conditions for the start of the race the following morning.
Today was all about registration - making sure I didn't fail before I started.  I had to check out of one hotel and check in to another. I decided to "fly the flag" and walked from my hotel up the Main Street for breakfast in my kilt!  It took me 3 times as long as normal as all the locals wanted to either explain their Scottish heritage or just generally have a chat.  I was welcomed at the registration by the race organisers Colin & Tess and it was so nice to meet them after a lot of email and FB communication.  We've agreed that I should ware my kilt at the awards dinner along with a cowboy hat - that will be a picture for the collection!
I've met so many new people today and the one thing they all have in common is their love of adventure and based on my experience this week, this will be a real adventure.  G2G looks harder than MdS and the temperature will play a large part.  Sure it will be hot during the day but it could fall into the minus numbers at night which will present a real challenge.
My rucksack weighed in at 26Lbs!  It was described as "one of the heavier ones".  I've repacking tonight and reduced my food as the calories on some days were 3,200 which will probably be difficult to consume. But I've only got it down by 1Lb!  I'll get my shoulders taped to avoid the straps cutting in and will use my secret weapon to relieve some of the pressure of the straps - sanitary towels! Honestly I won't be the only one using this technique.
We had a beautiful meal in the park tonight but the temperature dropped quickly so we didn't hang around.  Tomorrow involves getting breakfast then heading up to the coach which will take 3 hours to our camp site in the Grand Canyon.
I've been talking about this race for 2 years and now it's time to execute the plan.  I'll keep my blog going but realistically you won't hear from me until Monday.  If you want to message me then go to www.g2gultra.com and go to "race coverage" and "email a competitor".  My bib number is 252.  Let's do this!

Almost there

Tick tock, tick tock.  It's getting closer and everyone you meet is excited and nervous about the race.  Many different strategies are being employed and fortunately for me having done a staged race before, I have a rough idea as to what is important and what is just "noise".  What is essential is that I don't waste any energy on the noise and conserve as much energy as possible during the day as we have a lot of time to do nothing.
Yesterday's flight around Kanab was special in so many ways.  The scenery from the sky was stunning especially when we flew down a narrow canyon!  My flight was the last one because the winds were picking up so it was bumpy but worth it.  I was even given the opportunity to fly the plane for 10 minutes which included lining the plane up to land - Dave Baird the pilot took control with 45 seconds left!  Dave and his wife gave up there time to allow as many runners that experience and wouldn't take a penny for it.  They just wanted you to have a good time and enjoy flying.
I met some new runners as well; 3 Japanese, 2 Frenchmen (they were MY passengers on the flight!), a Swiss professor in Business Psychology and the youngest runner in the race who is 22.  She is working with a charity to inspire your people and is full of positive energy - you can see how she will be an excellent role model.  What a mix of people with a common passion.
Before dinner I went for a private yoga session with a very laid back teacher.  After she realised how "non bendy" I was she helped me with some exercises I can use during the next week to help prevent injury or ease the strain.  Yoga definitely has to be part of my training regime going forward before I snap!  I walked away very calm and relaxed, probably an inch taller.
Dinner was with my new expanded group of friends but was slightly more subdued as we all beginning to retreat into ourselves in preparation for the organisational phase before the race starts on Sunday.  Today I have to move hotels and then register for the race. I hope I don't have to empty my rucksack and show them all the manditory items, although I will be repacking the bag for one final time as I figure out how to get the weight down without starving.
Tonight the organisers are laying on dinner for everyone so this will be the first time the 120 runners will get to meet.  It won't be a late night as we will be leaving on Saturday morning for our base camp in the Grand Canyon which is 3 hours away.  The temperature is meant to be dropping for the next two days and it was very windy yesterday but who knows what it will be like when we get there.  Tick tock - my destiny lies ahead.

Kanab rocks

Another day closer to the race and yesterday was spent on the logistics, resting and eating.  My rucksack has been an issue right from the beginning.  Even after upgrading from a 25L to a 32L I still couldn't get all my food, equipment and clothing in so I headed to the local outdoor shop and came out with two straps that can carry my sleeping back outside the rucksack.  This will make a big difference and I think in 3 days time I can put it back in the rucksack as I will have consumed a lot of food which takes up most of the room.
I then spent a couple of hours checking every item going in the bag to make sure I had everything.  I was given a tip of repacking the freeze dried food into freezer bags.  It reduces the weight (packaging) and the bulk due to the air in the packed bags.  You keep a couple in the original bags but rather than throw them away you use them with the ones in the freezer bags in order to "cook" the food.  It made a significant difference.  So for the first time, the bag is packed.  I'll get it weighed on Friday but it's heavy and I may have to reduce my food slightly - leave out the beer!
Later on I had a lovely massage and had my muscles all stretched out - it was so relaxing.  My foot's sore from time to time but I'm just going to have to MTFU and get on with it.  However the skin on my right foot is very dry and three small cracks have appeared.  This isn't good as you always have to guard against infection and running on raw skin isn't fun.  I'm sure it will be fine but that's today's task.
One of the joys of an event like this is the people you meet.  Last night 6 of us went out for dinner; a South African, an Australian, 2 Americans and an English guy.  All from different backgrounds with different running experiences so there were no shortage of stories.  There's a nervous excitement building and tomorrow is registration when it will start getting serious.
In a few hours I am heading out for a short flight around the area of Kanab.  The rock formations around here are stunning and seeing them from the sky will be amazing.  This is a local pilot who is giving 15 minute flights for free - that tells you all you need to know about how friendly the people are and how proud they are of the history of their area.  Tonight I have an individual yoga lesson for some gently stretching.  Much to my surprise, Kanab really does rock!

Little Hollywood

What an amazing place Kanab is.  It is steeped in the history of making "Westerns" and everywhere you turn there is reference to them.  The people are so proud of their history and so friendly. We've been made so welcome here, it's a great spot to prepare for the main even which is getting very close now.
Part of the attraction of events like this is meeting new people. I met Frank on the bus from the airport and Dirk at the goodie bag pick up.  Yesterday we went a trail run into the local hills.  The scenery was amazing however we aren't in the real mountains yet.  Memories of MdS came flooding back as we sank our feet into the fine red dust.  I was the only one wearing gaiters and later on the guys were complaining that the dust had go right into their socks.  Add to that sweat and you have created a paste that will shred the skin on your feet so it was a good reminder.  I could feel the altitude when climbing but the hill walking I have been doing for the last 2 months meant I was strong.
The sign posting on the trail could have been better so we were out for longer than anticipated but this exposed me to the heat which I need to get used to and it allowed me to practice my hydration which is critical.
With the jet lag I am getting up at 5am in the morning but this is no bad thing as it won't be much later in the race.  The hotels breakfast was ok but eating off paper plates and using plastic knives isn't my idea of fun.  However from Sunday onwards I would "kill" for that breakfast as I eat mine out a plastic bag - either wheetabix or granola with macadamia nuts, raises and powdered milk!  But today I am going to the local bakery for croissants with ham and cheese and a cappuccino.
Today, other than resting, I have two main tasks; sort my rucksack and get a massage.
I'm heading off to the local climbing store to see if I can have my sleeeping bag strapped to the outside of my rucksack otherwise I don't have enough room for all my food.  Yesterday Dirk was explaining he'd a DNF in the Gobie desert with only 25 miles to go and it was because he hadn't taken enough food so that's underlined the importance of the nutrition.  We're all comparing notes on food but it just reaffirms that I have the right stuff but the bulky sleeping bag (which is manditory) is the problem.
A massage later on will get the blood flowing to my muscles which are feeling great just now but are in for a bit of a shock soon.
My Maggies fund raising has almost broken through the £4,000 barrier so thank you for your support www.justgiving.com/derek-stewart6 .  Till tomorrow.

Reporting State side!

If I thought the last months training was hard, the journey to Las Vegas wasn't much fun starting with the flight being delayed 3 hours and 20 minutes.  Some communication from Thomas Cook would have been nice but it gave me a chance to practice my breathing and patience.  When that didn't work it gave me plenty of time to worry about how I was going to get my bus from the airport to Kanab which was leaving 3 hours after my plane was originally scheduled to get in.  If I missed the bus I'd have to stay in Vegas and come back to the airport 24 hours later.
I was also unaware that there was a comedians conference in LV with a plane full of contestants who were practising their acts after a few too many drinks on the plane.  One guy got stuck in the toilet door twice and had to be "freed" - now that was funny!  I put my head phones on and zoned out for 10 hours - good practice for the race.  With 35 minutes to spare I sprinted off the plane, managed to persuade some good people to allow me to skip some of the massive queue and then found myself in the slowest possible queue for customs. Tick tock.  Several phone calls to the bus operator, and a big than you to them as the bus diverted to my terminal and picked me up.  Kanab here I come. Only one other competitor on the bus so we spent the next 3 hours comparing race food, hydration tips and experiences so the coach trip flew in.  Got to the hotel and wondered why I was tired - it was 4am back home!
I got 6 hours sleep but jet lag meant I was wide awake at 4 am local time.  I decided to go through my itinerary for the rest of the week before the race begins on Sunday morning 9am.  All of a sudden the reality is kicking in and the excitement is building which will continue all week as more competitors start to arrive.   I'm picking up my race goodie bag this morning and can't wait to see what's in it.  Probably buy some G2G merchandise and take in Kanab while acclimatising.  Tomorrow I have a massage, on Thursday a flight in a plane to see the local area (OMG the mountains are stunning!) and a yoga session.  Friday's when it really hits home and race check-in is at 3pm.  Unlikely though it is, this is where the doctors can put an end to your race so fingers crossed.
I will be writing a daily blog up till the race starts, that I can guarantee.  Subject to how I'm feeling at the end of a race day I intent to either blog directly or Fiona will blog and or post my message on Facebook.  Remember that due to time difference it will be a day behind.  If you want to send me a message during the race then these get delivered to me in my tent at night.  If you go to www.grand2grand.com and go to the "race coverage" section then there is an email a competitor facility - my bib number is 252.  You will also get race updates here or you can like them on Facebook and get updates.  There is no tracking facility.
I'm heading down for breakfast shortly and will then go out and explore Kanab.  I hope you enjoy the excitement of following this amazing adventure with me.  Remember I'm raising money for Maggie's so if you want to support an unbelievable charity then go to www.justgiving.com/derek-stewart6 . Catch up tomorrow.

Stripped naked

Well I'm almost there.  I leave tomorrow morning and fly to Las Vegas arriving at my hotel in Kanab around 3am UK time on Tuesday.  Registration for the race starts on Friday, we move out to the start campsite on Saturday and 8am local time we start with 31 miles on Sunday.  This is followed by 26 miles/53/day off if you've completed the 53/26/26 & 7.  But the mileage, altitude, terrain and temperature is just half the battle.  It's the mental side that will determine whether you finish or not.
Having completed MdS 4 years ago I have had an insight into what lies ahead.  You're carrying everything you need and Im still trying to squeeze it into a bigger rucksack than I'd anticipated.  I've seen posts with people somehow managing to get into smaller rucksacks but at the cost of calories which could be the difference between finishing and not.
I'll be stripped naked in this race - not literally but there is nowhere to hide.  The morning will start with breakfast. Poring cold water into a plastic bag eating wheetabix, nuts and raisins gives me what I need.  Run/walk and get acclimatised while paying close attention to my core body temperature.  Get that wrong and good night.  Chase down check points - it's the only way to survive as eating an elephant in one go isn't advisable.
And when I finish my 31 miles I'll tend to my feet, rehydrate, eat and then head over to the media tent to stand in a queue to send my blog.  You'll be receiving it a day behind but I want to capture the essence of the race for you so you can share the experience with me.
As I sit here on the couch after a cooked dinner and looking forward to a bath later followed by a comfy bed it's hard to imagine what it will be like.  Basically running a marathon a day carrying 12 kg on my back in hot conditions at altitude and when you finish, there are no showers or change of clothes.  No washing for a week, boiled in the bag food.  Sleeping with 9 strangers a night in a space no wider than your sleeping bag.  6 days.  This is what makes it special.  No FB or IPhone and the only contact with the outside world is the messages that you might send to race control - I'll post details later.  This is my reference to stripped naked - all home comforts are removed and believe it or not, this is the attraction.  Pushing a pen and driving a desk doesn't compare.  Life starts beyond your comfort zone, so get out there and enjoy.
And hopefully you'll support Maggie's www.justgiving.com/derek-stewart6 - apparently there was a BBC programme on Maggies tonight so it will be worth checking it out on iPlayer.
From Tuesday I'll be blogging daily from Kanab, where they filmed the Outlay Josie Wales.  I'm excited, nervous and can't wait till I'm standing on the start line but at the same time I know it will be over too soon.  I might not think that on a daily basis when my feet are "on fire" or my muscles are screaming for me to give up - but that's the challenge.  I'm so privileged to be taking on this challenge I aim to enjoy every moment, no matter how tough.  Catch up on Tuesday from Kanab.

Equipment failure

Enjoy the journey to the start line as sometimes you won't make it.  That was advice I was given early in my "going long" days and it's so true.  Last weeks wee scare could have been the end of G2G but with some physio it's getting better but is still sore - bruises take time to clear.  I was very worried that it was my shoes that caused it and this would have meant going back to the drawing board which would have been a disaster.  I put my Inov8s under the toughest conditions in the last 2 days and they have passed the test.  This means they can go off tomorrow to get my gators stiched in - another box ticked.
Testing your equipment before a race, especially one over 7 days, is essential.  I tried out my new compression sock with toes and they are brilliant.  I wasn't so lucky with my Raidlight bottle holders when one ripped when I was putting it on - not happy but a reminder to take duck tape.  Hopefully I'll have a replacement by the time I leave on Monday 18th.
It's been a great weeks training and on Friday I ran 19k without a twinge in either foot. On Saturday I went out with three athletes to climb/run/walk Beinn a Ghlo - a group of 3 munro's with some stunning ridges (22k).  Graham Kelly had helped me before MdS with the Great Glen Run and Lorna Stanger was also part of that group and joined us as well.  Alex Berry made up the group and they didn't hang around. Graham & Alex are taking part in a mega tough race next week so this was ideal training for them and Lorna was coming back from running 100 miles in under 24 hours only 2 weeks ago - fit buggers.  The first climb was brutal with the weighted rucksack (weighed 10% of my body weight) adding to the challenge.  I managed to hang onto their coat tails and didn't fall too far behind!  The final descent was dodgy with the stones giving way under my feet and I caught myself a few time with the poles.
400 m from the finish somehow my pole clashed with Lorna and came out second best.  She did a slow mo dive and the graphite pole sheared!  Lorna was ok but the pole was screwed and an essential piece of equipment.  On the way down the road we stopped into Tiso in Perth and they gave me a new set - no questions asked.  Thank you Tiso that is customer service at it's best.  I was worried they would offer to repair it and I only have a week!  Let's hope I don't repeat that move in the G2G!
Today I went out with my wonderful coach Genevieve.  She has juggled the training schedule with my injuries and I'm amazed to have got this far.  She ran the first half of my 3 hour run.  Again I had the weighted rucksack but her company and encouragement helped as the second half was boring.  But it was a good finish to my week.
Next week I am tapering which will involve 4 one hour runs to allow my body to recover but not to forget we've still got a big challenge coming up.  I'll be buying my final few items but none that need tested.
This journey has been the hardest yet.  In January I was injured and over weight with my heart rate through the roof.  Now I'm a racing snake (under weight but I'll soon sort that when I get back) and my heart rate is behaving itself.  It's been tough but I've proved to myself that if you have a "why" it makes all the difference.  With your support I have raised £2,390 for Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres  (my why) and hopefully we will raise more www.justgiving.com/derek-stewart6.  Thank you.  1 more blog next Sunday before I step on the plane!  Can't wait. :-)

Late scare

My blog is meant to be a journal following my journey over the last 8 years.  However in the last two years it's become more of a medical journal which is disappointing.  I have promised myself that after my recovery from G2G I will be rebuilding my body to reduce the chance of injury going forward.  As you know I "weaned" myself off my Hoka's on advice of my physio.  I was always worried about the toe box being too narrow which would have caused a problem with my feet expanding in the heat of the desert.  I switched to Brooks which were wider but caused blisters and the shoes fell to pieces - certainly wouldn't last 170 miles.  So onto Inov8 which I was enjoying running in. Till Friday.
My pal Derek Boyd took me for a 28km run/walk, my longest yet, along a trail which didn't involve boggy ground.  My left foot (my good one!) felt uncomfortable across the top and on three occasions I stopped and checked the shoe and my sock - nothing.  But towards the end of the trail my foot was in a lot of discomfort.  I woke in the morning with a bruise on my foot and when I tried to run I stopped after 50 yards - extremely painful.  Was it the shoes, the socks, the hard trail or the length of the trail (I hope not or I'm really screwed!).  I agreed with my coach to take a two day break which was ideal as we were taking my daughter to university so it was a welcome break.
My foot has felt fine since but we'll see what happens tomorrow when I pull the shoes on and go a run.  I might have to find myself another pair of trail shoes which wouldn't give me enough time to get used to them plus I need to get gaiters stitched into them which will take a couple of days.  Time's running out, tick tock.
I've also got to finalise my food and get the rest of my gear.  The food tasting is next weekend which I'm not looking forward to - it tastes completely different sitting in the comfort of your kitchen in comparison to sitting in the middle of a dust bowl!  I'll be posting a link to my JustGiving page tomorrow and hope if you can spare some cash you will donate to Maggies - the charity I have been raising funds for in the last 8 years.  If you know someone affected by cancer, please visit a Maggies centre.

Every waking moment

It's not quite "squeaky bum time" but its getting close.  The training continues to go well with my hill walking/running into cloud base continuing and longer Chatelherault runs confirming my progress.  But I thought I'd share what's going on between my ears as this has happened in all the major events I've taken part in from Ironman to MdS, Ultra runs to ultra swims.
Every training session I'm visualising being in the Grand Canyon and how the session relates to the event - even if I'm in the pool.  So today I enjoyed company on the first two laps of Chatelherault but was on my own for the third lap.  I had to dig deep because I wanted to maintain the pace and was running on tired legs which is deliberate as that will be what it is like in the race.  So I channeled my thinking into race mode.  I also have to be mentally prepared for sleeping in a 10 man tent, there's bound to be a snorer, with a bunch of smelly people - you don't waste your water supply on washing and I'll only have one set of running clothes.  Sleeping in a sleeping bag while balancing on a small inflatable mat isn't easy.  The temperature will swing from bloody hot to bloody cold in 24 hours and I need to make sure I am adequately prepared for those conditions without taking a wardrobe of clothes which would make my rucksack to heavy.
On the subject of a rucksack I am hoping to have that one resolved this week and I'll need to be walking/running with it filled with clothes and water to get the weight up so I'm used to running with about 12kg.
My new shoes were confirmed this weekend based on two successful training sessions as the last pair fell to bits in less than 4 weeks, so I changed brand - they wouldn't have survived 170 miles.  I still need to agree what food I'm taking so a food tasting session is required.  And all these thoughts are going on whenever there is space in my head from life & work.  The worst time is just before I nod off to sleep as my mind is still processing the information.
My diary is planned as much as possible around my training and with so little time left, 27 days to the start line or 22 before I step on the plane, every session counts. For my friends who compete in Ironman and Ultra events, they will get this way of thinking but not everyone who reads this blog is involved in this madness.  Getting to the start line is always the first priority but you also have to enjoy the journey.  The excitement is building to this adventure of a lifetime.  The opportunity of living in the canyon with a group of likeminded individuals.  Shut off from the outside world with the exception of messages coming through on email which are handed to us at night.  I remember how emotional everyone got at MdS around those messages - our only contact with the outside world.  You are literally stripped of everything you are used to and you have to survive while running in the desert carrying everything you need in your rucksack - if it's not in your rucksack then your stuffed.  This means the preparation / logistics are essential.  I have lists of lists and am slowly ticking the items off.  So every waking moment, this is what's going through my mind.  Just thought I'd give you an insight into the mental side!

When the cats away.........

So the boss and mini boss (wife and daughter) were away in Palma for 4 days so it was decided this would be a good time to get 4 consequitive days on the hills - quad crunching!  Thursday I couldn't get any accommodation so took a tent.  More of that later but the weather was fowl.  As I was on my own and decide to play it safe having been given a route by an experienced friend which avoided the summits.  After an hour in clouds with the rain pissing down and the trail getting worse I decided to cut my losses and headed back.  Off to the campsite.  I chose a spot under a tree thinking it would offer some shelter.  The instructions said the tent would be set up in 15 mins - try 45 mins.  Then I discovered a big rock in the centre of the ground - rookie error.  The ground was saturated so I got a rubber liner out the boot of my car.  Checked the weather forecast for the following day, and packed up and went home.  I think I'd have been under a foot of water by the morning.
On Friday I ran three laps of Chatelherault- can't remember the last time I did that. It felt good and my legs knew they had been through a work out but at the cost of two big blisters on the inside of my big toes.  This is not good news but at least I'll get to practice my repair skills on them.  But as I had just visited my friend Davy Arthur who was recovering from a bad bike accident with a broken back, broken neck and many other life threatening injuries, I decided to man up - he's an inspiration.
As a novice on the hills I was delighted that Michael Martin was taking me up two munro's at Bridge of Orkey.  We were soaked before we left the car park. 400m up and we were at cloud base.  Then the hailstones came crashing in on a gale force wind.  At the summit the conditions were brutal.  We had to skirt round the summit with a big drop while trying not to be blow off.  My hands were numb and I put them through the loops of my poles in case they fell out my hands.  On the descent we ran down the stream rather than go through the bog and I ended up doing a somersault bruising my hip.  We had to wade through the bog and twice was up to my knees - summer in Scotland!  We went for lunch at a hotel in the middle of nowhere as I had a room for the night.  After lunch I binned that and headed home for a good nights sleeep and I wasn't convinced the forecast of good weather would come true.  It did!
Another experienced hill / ultra runner friend, Derek Fish, had invited me up to Comrie near Crieff to climb Ben Chonzie with his pals.  What he didn't tell me was there was a 8 mile warm up run with 1,000 ft of climbing!  Then we tackled Ben Chozie (3,000 ft) and these guys were keen to run up it!  There is a dry (for a change) 3 mile track before you get into a small amount of bog then running across rocks and grass.  I was tired but did my best to keep up and was delighted with the views at the top.  We ran all the way down but the blisters didn't appreciate it.
Mission accomplished - quads were well bashed.  I've done more running in the last 4 days than I have in the last 9 months.  Running on tired legs is all part of the training and although the weather reduced the number of hours I was supposed to be out, it's building nicely.  In 34 days time I will be running/ walking with 12kg on my back, in heat, sand and at altitude.  It may be 6-8 hours a day with the exception of the double marathon stage.  It's certainly a challenge and I can't wait for it to start - although another month of training would help.
The cat was away so this mouse did play but it will definitely be an early night tonight.  I'm bust!

Spend spend spend!

41 days till I line up at the startline in the Grand Cayon but in 35 days time I get on the plane!  Therefore I have to have all my gear and food purchased and tested.  Yes tested.  I can't turn up without having tested my equipment.  So a few major purchases were made during the week.  A sleeping bag that can take minus temperatures (I'll be sleeping at altitude), a down jacket and a set of graphite foldaway poles.  The poles failed on their first outing and will be going back to the shop tomorrow - very disappointed as they are so light.  Minimising the weigh of everything is essential and every item I am carrying is on a spreadsheet and will be weighed.
This was a busy week and I would normally have a day off on Monday but it was switched to Thursday as I would be in London that day.  Therefore it was an extended weeks training and while I felt tired, I managed two walk runs without any issues and then a 90 minute run at Chatelherault- I loved it!
On Saturday I climbed The Cobbler 884m, Beinn Narnian 926m and Beinn Ime 1,011m.  My friend Graham Harvey had sent me a map with instructions and I headed off on my own (I can get lost in a car park).  The Cobbler was a bit scary as it was windy and clouds were covering part of the summit.  I don't know if this helped me manage a very narrow ledge as I couldn't see the drop but at the very top I couldn't stand up.  Beinn Narnian had amazing views but I came off the summit at the wrong point and had to scramble up and down rocks to make my way round to the path - eventually got there.  The last summit had incredible views but my foot was protesting on the way down with the terrain.
When I got off the mountain I decided to run down the path to the car and I managed that without too much pain.  I feel as though I am actually training my head to cope with the pain which I know will be the case in the Canyon as it was in MdS.  In total I was out for 5 hours and when I got back I headed out for a meal and then the Edinburgh Tattoo - got back at 2am - a long day which had started 21 hours earlier.
Today was swimming and for a change it was an evening session.  I'm feeling great and tomorrow is a day off training although I'll be at the chiropractor followed by the physio the following day.
I have 4 days of hill walking / running coming up so I hope I have more exciting tales to tell you next week.  These injuries have meant my training schedule has required to be adapted and I think it's working in my favour.  Back to spending more money this week as I buy the last of the items I need and then to decide on the food I'm going to be carrying with me.  This approach underlines my mantra of the 7Ps; piss poor preparation precipitates piss poor performance!  Once I step on that plane I will need to have everything with me to succeed and it will need to have been tested. So preparation is essential and it's not just about running.

Munro bagging

Another week with no running and further treatment for the hip/hammy problem.  Pleased to report that the hip & hammy are brand new thanks to the amazing chiropractor Gill Fraser (Strathkelvin Chiropractic Clinic).  However my coach wanted to work my legs so a long walk was planned for Friday, hill walking on Saturday & Sunday.  This is ideal training as there will be hill walking in the Grand Canyon and you need to practice power walking as it puts different pressure on your feet.
On Saturday I went out with experience climber Alan Stirling, another Ironman.  We tackled 3 Munro's (mountains over 3,000 feet).  Beinn Ghlas is 1,103 metres and I'm sure it would have been a nice view but it was in the clouds.  We headed onto Ben Lawyers at 968m and guest what, it was in the clouds.  We then pressed onto An Stuc at 1,118m and the clouds dispersed and we got our reward.  We also watched in amazement as shepherds were rounding up their herd of sheep with their border collies - whistling and shouting instructions to the dogs.  It is so removed from life 1,000m below and I could have stayed there for a few hours.  But this was a work out and I had to press on.  In addition rain was forecast so we headed back down and I was able to run (carefully and slowly) the bottom half of the mountain.  The rain arrived so the last 30 minutes were very wet.  It took us 4 hours in total so this was a good work out for me.
Today my target was 3 hours of hill walking so I headed to another "Munro" Ben Lomond (again).  The weather forecast was for rain at lunchtime so I made sure I got their early, only to be met by torrential rain - what happen to Summer in Scotland?  It didn't last long and the climb was in humid conditions which had the sweat poring off me (I lost 2 pounds on this climb).  But the higher I went the more the clouds came in and the wind picked up.  So for the fifth time in a row, I haven't had the reward of a clear view from this summit.  The descent was sore on my foot but hopefully tomorrow I'll get my leg taped and this will help the stability.
I'm planning a 4 day trip into the Glencoe mountain range to increase the time to 6-8 hours a day as this will be good preparation for the Canyon.  I can't replicate the heat or the altitude but I can get my legs used to being punished every day.  I'll also be "braking the bank" when I buy the equipment I need for the event.  I've now got a much better idea as to what I'll be taking and I'll soon be testing the expedition food.  Sadly the company that supplied my food for MdS went out of business which was a shame as it was tasty and food is critical when you're burning carlories at the rate I will be.  It really is beginning to get exciting as I get close to my departure for the Canyon but there is a lot of hard work to be done between now and then.

Head in the clouds

The first two days this week hurt.  I had DOMS from running down Ben Ledi on Sunday which led my coach to saying that in the remaining 55 days my legs are going to get "battered.  I've run out of time to put in the big running miles but I'll be doing a lot of hill walking to prepare my legs for the ascending and descending in the Canyon.  From experience I know you can't hammer down the hills if you want to finish the race, especially one over 7 days.  If you've run a marathon before you know how your legs feel the next day.  Add to that carrying 12kg on your back, 35 degrees of heat, freeze dried food, sleeping under canvas, no morning showers and you'll begin to understand how I will need to manage my legs (and my head) during the race.
It looks like we may have established the cause of the hamstring problem which is linked to my hip.  So more intense treatment is required including shockwave treatment to try and reset the muscles that are misbehaving.  I also had a wonderful Thai massage from Mark Russell (yogi Mark). It was like having yoga "done to you" and I managed some positions I would never have got into myself.  It was quite relaxing and really strenches off my tired muscles - you should try it out.
Running is out for me at the moment until we get the hammy/hip sorted but it gives me the opportunity to climb some hills.  This weekend I headed out with ultra ironchick Dawn Williamson to be shown a different route up Ben Lomond (974 metres).  I power walked up but before getting to the top I was in cloud base - again!  Such a shame as the scenery is stunning, so I'm told!  The rain came on heavily so the walk down was more about staying upright and not jarring my hammy.  It doesn't surprise me that mountain rescue get regular call outs; on the way down I passed 3 people walking with umbrellas up.  Seen as I almost got blown off the top I couldn't see them lasting too long.  Others were going up in tee-shirts and jeans not realising the weather at the bottom of the hill was pleasant compared to being in the clouds at the top.
When I got up this morning the sky was blue so I headed out early to repeat the climb but on my own.  The conditions were worse and with cloud base much lower.  At stage I got lost and doubled back till I recognised where I was.  If you know Ben Lomond I know you'll think that's daft because you just stick to the path, but when you've been walking in clouds for 20 minutes and didn't recognise where you are then your mind plays tricks.  The last section before the summit is a bit tricky especially as visibility was limited and the wind had got up.  I felt like I was "bonking" so played safe and took some shelter and got some jelly babies and a pork pie into me - that sorted me. The summit was the same as the day before so I wasted no time in taking the tourist route down.  The path can be tricky especially with my right foot so I used my poles to support my descent and only went over on my ankle a few times.  But it only takes I misplaced step to end the journey.
Next week I've got more shockwave treatment lined up and hopefully I'll be fit for a 6 hour climb, with a real climber, on Saturday.  These legs are going to be battered into shape.  I just hope to summit one mountain and get a view - Summer in Scotland!

Inspired by strangers

It's been a week of highs, lows and highs but you'd expect that in any journey in life.  But before we get into that I was inspired by strangers this week.  Strangers who swim with me but we don't often get the chance to talk while doing sets.  On Friday an elderly gentleman (late 60s?) asked me how far I was swimming.  He then went on to explain he used to do two miles but through health issues he'd cut it down to one - in his late 60s this guy is swimming a mile 4 times a week!  Amazing and he's hoping once he gets "sorted" to get the mileage up.  I was also chatting to a lady who it turns out won an ironman event 15 years ago in the UK - not an age grouper, but the whole race.  Another girl has just swam the north channel and all of these people are in the same pool as me.  It just shows that everyone has a story and goals they are still pushing for so never judge a book by its cover as they say.
On Tuesday the physio was pleased with my hammy which was great news.  On Wednesday I went for a short run - pulled up after 3 minutes. Back to physio on Thursday and it turns out to be a different part of the hammy and that my glute is in need of some pounding!  The secret is knowing how far you can push a muscle that is sending out distress signals because it still needs to be worked. Inactivity could set it back.
The first test was on Saturday - a walk up Tinto hill, 711 metres high using walking poles for the first time.  The poles were like having a 4 wheel drive.  I power walked to the top which was in cloud base so no views to be seen.  The rain was heavy on the way down but I tested my hammy and glute with a couple of runs over 200m - I could feel the hammy but it was ok.
Rather than go out running today, with only 62 days to go I need to spend more time on the hills as there is 18,000 ft of climbing and 14,500 ft of descending in G2G.  So I headed off early morning with my coach Genevieve to go up Ben Ledi which is 879 metres high.  We started off by going the wrong way which added 50 minutes to our time.  But it warmed up my hammy and glute which was just as well as it's a steep start.  My hammy was fine on the way up and when we got to the top, yes you guessed it, we were in cloud base!  I chose to really test the hammy and glute by running down the mountain and managed this with no adverse affect.  That's a real confidence booster but I'm not getting carried away as it's still work in progress.  This week I've got the physio, a massage and yoga exercises and the chiropractor!  I've got to make it to that startline uninjured so a lot of time will be spent "nursing" my injuries.  I'm going to be spending a lot of time up mountains before heading to the Caynon.  I just hope there will be a view from some of them!

Lost in London

It's been a hectic week as I have increased my training with double sessions and having a busy work schedule.  Two runs were before 6am and while I was treated to a the birds singing I also had the pleasure on a blue sky with no clouds and an almost full moon while the sun was blazing in the sky.  That's what makes getting up early worthwhile and I feel I have a head start on the world!
On Tuesday the hammy got a good report from my miracle worker Pamela Lock but the calf muscles were re-taped as they were showing signs of being overworked in a way they shouldn't be - this is all connected with my foot instability.
On Friday me and the boss headed off on business in London so Friday was my rest day.  A nice lunch with clients helped me towards my weight target followed by a concert and an after show party.  We got in about 1am but I was up at 6.45 to go for a run in Hyde Park.  It's a big park and it took me a while to navigate my way round it but 1hr and 20 minutes passed with only one person acknowledging me - "hello cock" he said.  I did have a quick check in case there was a wardrobe malfunction but fortunately everything was in order!
This morning I was meant to be running for 1 hr 50 minutes as I build up my mileage.  I was in a different hotel and checked the map before heading out to run in Hyde Park, Green Park and St James Park.  Took a wrong turning and it was about 20 minutes before I reached Green Park.  What a stunning park.  I wish I'd more time and I'd have happily spent the day wandering around and stopping to read a book under the shade of the massive old oak trees.  The same could be said for St James Park and I waved to the Queen a few times as I did my laps - even saw the soldiers practicing for a parade.  I was enjoying the sticky heat when I became aware that my hammy was talking to me. I was 1 hour and 8 mins in and it had tightened up.  I stretched it off but it didn't improve so I walked back to the hotel - more physio on Tuesday.  I'm confident this will be fixed but don't want to risk making it worse.
I've really enjoyed being lost in London and feeling energised by the trees and the beautiful plants and it's hard to believe that such beauty is in the middle of a busy contrete jungle.  Tomorrow's a rest day and we'll start all over again on Tuesday.  Seems the title of my previous blog will apply before as well as during the race.  Failure isn't an option!

Run, Trek, Walk, Crawl - whatever it takes

I think the title of this blog sums up my mindset and I am sure I will be repeating it to myself over the next 76 days when I'll be standing on the startline of the Grand 2 Grand 170 mile race.  But early on Monday morning, 1am, I was awake wondering if I should postpone the race for a year as I won't be reaching the startline with the mileage in my legs.  This race is going to be tougher than MdS.  It's 35 miles longer, has more ascending and descending, variable weather conditions and let's not forget I'm 4 years older.  I needed to make a decision before booking flights and accommodation so I decided to wait till I'd had my physio on Tuesday and see how my running went this week.  The good news is I have no more hamstring pain and all my running this week has gone well.
As a result today I committed by booking the flights and the accommodation - ouch £££!  In total I'll be away for 3 weeks and once the race is finished my wife will join me on a luxury holiday in the area finishing up in Las Vegas.  Just the thought of that alone should get me through the pain I will undoubtably suffer during the race.  If it's anything like MdS then I'll experience "heaven and hell" on the same day!
Now some serious planning is required.  The training plan is in place and I'm going to be having regular physio to make sure the chance of injury is reduced.  I'm upping my food intake as I could do with a few extra pounds.  I've been researching rucksacks as it is such an important item that could make or break your run as I'll be carrying in the region of 12 kilos. On MdS my rucksac's shoulder straps were too narrow and cut into my shoulders causing a lot of pain.  I need to buy a lot of equipment and also test out my freeze dried food.  Unfortunately the company that I used last time have gone bust which is a shame because their food was good.  So some tasting to be done To be confident that I like the food and that it has the  right calories and mix of carbs, protein and fat.
My focus is definitely beginning to narrow as the time ticks away.  I will be blocking out any negative thoughts or doubts because in the end this will be done whether I need to Run, Trek, Walk or Crawl!

DNS

Three simple letters but behind them always lies a story - DNS = did not start.  When the Edinburgh 70.3 Ironman was announced I got over excited.  An Ironman (half) event on my door stop and it would have been my second of the year and good motivation to continue cross training which would reduce my chance of injury.  Well that was the plan which would have worked had I not had an injury earlier in the year which set me back and meant my training plan had to change.
Today was the day of the 70.3 and I wasn't at the start line.  I made my decision after completing the Swashbuckler 70.3 back in May but as Edinburgh was approaching I was beginning to get "withdrawal symptoms".  Could I do it?  Could I just rock up and surprise everyone?  Those thoughts were going through my head this week but that was just stupid because my hammy is still not 100% and a 70.3 requires you to be fully fit and I haven't been on a bike for over a month.
While my pals were all battling the waves at Gullane and the jelly fish, I was at Tollcross knocking out 3,200m followed by a 6km run.  Except with 300m to go on the run my hammy began grumbling so I walked to the finish.
But hats off to all of those who made the start line and braved the elements.  And congratulations to all who finished.  To those who didn't, it will make you all the more determined to come back stronger.  There is a story behind everyone's training and the races are the icing on the cake.  I'm working hard to make sure that it's extra thick icing come September, but I need to get the body sorted first!

Speed bumps

The last few weeks have been great for training as my stats are all going in the right direction.  Despite my bruised knees for my falls last weekend my running during the week had gone well.  I was tired and want to eat my body weight but that's just an outcome of the training.  My legs felt tired and tight so I had booked in a massage at the end of the day on Friday as I had a big weekends training coming up.
On Saturday I headed out for a three hour trail run and had prepared well for it with my hydration and  carb loading the night before.  15 minutes into the run my right hamstring tightened up so much so I stopped and stretched it off - very unusual especially my right leg.  5 minutes later I stopped again,  It was really tight and I knew that if I continued I was going to injure myself so I walked back.  Going up the hills I could feel the muscle straining.  I couldn't believe I had a problem especially with me running so well.  But in any journey like this you need to expect speed bumps.  Something to slow you down.  So running is off the agenda for a few days.
An increase in swimming looks like it's on the cards.  This morning I swam 3,300m which was 700 more than on my plan but as I wasn't running after it, the extra effort was required.  Since coming home all I've done is rest my leg, apply hot and cold and stuff my face with food.  I'll be speaking with my coach during the week and assessing this small set back - before it becomes a big set back.  As always, getting to the start line is the no. 1 priority especially when I've laid out a small fortune and haven't booked my flights or accommodation, yet!

Father's Day

When out running this morning I needed something to deflect my mind from the sweat dripping in my eyes and  the occasional protest from my bruised knees - more about that later.  It was my last session of the week and second of the day.  The session was a 1hr 23 mins run following a 2.6km swim earlier.  I was tired from the long (2hr 45 min) run the day before and it was the hottest conditions I'd run in this year - good prep for the Canyon.  And then I remembered it was Fathers Day.
A day to think about your Dad and if you are lucky enough, one for your children to make a fuss over you.  My Dad passed away almost 30 years ago and would have been 103 if he was still alive today.  He had the physique of a long distance runner but his sport was tennis through which he met my Mum. I began to think, what would he have made of this "madness", as some people refer to it.  I concluded that he would have been proud of me pushing myself while raising money for a good cause - Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres.  But back then this mid-life craze of ultra multi-day running events hadn't taken off.
Now onto the knees.  Saturday was a big run, 26km at Chatelherault.  I had no company so there was plenty of "head chatter" going on.  On the first lap I caught my foot on a tree root and rather than pull a hamstring fighting gravity, I picked my spot and performed the perfect shoulder roll.  No damage done so I continued.  On the third lap I wasn't so lucky.  Down like a sack of potatoes with two grazed, bruised knees.  That kind of fallin the Canyon may have worse consequences I thought!  I dusted myself down and finished off the run but I realised that I had fallen due to being tired and not lifting my feet.  When I got home I spend the rest of the day eating and resting as I really don't want to lose any more weight. - I'll need some fat to burn off in the Caynon.
Today's run was one of those that you know is going to hurt but one that you need to get through.  They're the important sessions and while it was slower than planned, it's done.  Tomorrow is a rest day although I will be playing golf!
As for my Father's Day, 2 of our kids are on holiday but our eldest came home and we had a special lunch which made my day.  They say "the best things in life are free" and a simple lunch with loved ones made me one happy Dad.  Let's close the day thinking of our Dad and the lifetime of memories that makes us who we are.  Happy Fathers Day.

The return of my running legs

If you go back to my posts at the start of the year, I was struggling with my running.  My heart rate was through the roof, I was the heaviest I'd ever been (it's all relative) and I was getting dropped faster than a "hot jobbie" by the group when running.  That wasn't a nice time but 6 months of hard work and my running legs (and lungs) have returned.  My coach has had me running up to a max heart rate since then.  At first it meant I had to walk to get my heart rate under control rather than run.  But as time went on I've not had to walk and my pace has picked up almost to the point of where I was pre-ironman last year.
This emphasised the need for a proper plan of action.  In the 70.3 three weeks ago I backed off on the run rather than push myself as this would have led to injury and me not feeling the way I do now.  It did identify some weaknesses such as my core and my training was changed this week to address this aspect.  After the first session I had the DOMS for three days which wasn't fun but the next session wasn't so bad.
It all came together on Saturday when I ran 24km at Chatelherault with my pals.  The run was 3.25 laps and different friends joined in at different times which was great in keeping me company.  But with "fresher legs" coming on during the run I wanted to maintain a decent pace and not get dropped. I set off at the front of the group and maintained that right to the end while one of the late comers pushed hard.  My last 4 km were much quicker as I wanted to stay ahead and although my heart rate exceeded my normal training limit I knew this was doing me good and that my running legs were back - as was a big blister on my toe!
Later on that day I went out for a boozy lunch and a concert with my best friend.  We had a great night "dad dancing" to Chic - I'm sure Niall Rogers saw some new moves!  It was a late night but at the next morning at 9am I headed out for a 10km run.  The wind was strong but this helped blow the cobwebs away.  My pace was marginally slower than normal but faster than the goal that had been set.  My toe didn't enjoy the run but this was good practice for the Caynon where you have to block out the pain and if I get away with just one blister I'll be very fortunate.  This afternoon I've had a long cat nap as my body recovers from the training and the over indulgence of yesterday.
I have the next two days off training but the rest of the week is a heavy training schedule which I'm looking forward to.  When you start to feel the results of the hard work it just makes you want to do more.  There's 105 days to go and I'll need all of that time to get myself to the level of physical and mental fitness required.  Thanks to everyone who is encouraging me and pushing me on my training.

Flying high

Another week in this crazy world.  It's devastating how so few can cause so much carnage but we will not allow this to change our way of life.  London we support you and life will go on.
Back to normality.  The everyday.  What, in the absence of a crisis, we do every day - like prepare for 170 miles running in the Grand Canyon in 111 days time!
It's been a great weeks training and the focus has moved to running with no cycling.  Two swimming sessions a week allow me to build my core and upper body while giving my legs a rest. I had two days off this week which is a first but this was to prepare me for two back to back runs at the weekend.  This approach worked for MdS so I headed to Chatelherault on Saturday for a solo long run - just 2hrs and 5 mins at this stage.  The first extended lap went well but it's an uphill finish followed by an uphill start.  Usually this has my heart rate near it's max so I try and to take it easy on that section to keep it under control.  As I was approach the brow of the hill a strange aroma starting to stimulate my nostrils.  The couple walking their dog in front were smoking a "strange substance" (say no more).  I couldn't believe it - I floated up the rest of the hill!
I'd no pals to run with so it was also a "mental" exercise as it was the longest run at Chatelherault I'd done so far.  In due course I'll be running double that distance and with a weighted rucksack but this is only the start.  My post run instructions were to rest, hydrate and eat so I happily obliged.  This was necessary for my run today - got to look after my body.
During the week I visited my physio who is delighted with the progress my shoulder (98% recovered) and my foot - the strapping on my leg has changed the way the muscles are working.  I also had another sports massage which eased off my legs which were starting to show signs of the hard week's training.
Today's return went well and I even managed to miss the rain.  Next week the programme builds including some core workouts.  I'm feeling great at moment and I know that this will fluctuate as the training builds up and gets harder.  But I'll enjoy it while it lasts but not with the aid of any "strange substances"!

No rest for the wicked

After completing the Swashbuckler 70.3 on Sunday last week, you might of thought I'd have an easy training week ahead.  Think again.  We're running out of time and as of today there is only 118 days to go and I haven't run any more than 14 miles in one go never mind 170 in 7 days with 13kg on my back in much warmer temperature.  I love a challenge.
With my coach we'd decided that the scheduled 70.3 in Edinburgh wasn't going to work with my training plan.  I don't need long bike rides although my training plan will include sessions more to give my legs a break and also to work my cardio fitness.  The same goes for swimming.  But I need to build in more strength training and build my running mileage.
Monday might have been my day off, sitting in a car for 8.5 hours, but between Tuesday and Sunday (today) I had 4 runs, 2 swims and 1 bike session. A good weeks training but it required some planning around my work schedule.  On Friday I travelled early to my swimming, parked the car and went for a run before my swim so I could be sitting at my desk by 8.45am - great start to the day.
The highlight of the week (apart from my daughter's 18th birthday which was epic!) was today's run.  I headed back to Chatelherault which I haven't run in for at least 3 months.  I had to search deep in the shoe cupboard to find my trail shoes which were caked in mud suggesting the last run was wet and muddy.  Today however it was muggy but dry.  I headed out with two pals and two dogs with the intention of doing two laps (16km total) - something I hadn't done in over a year so there was a psychological barrier to get over.
I was aiming for a relatively easy pace of 47 min per lap and to keep my heart rate under 155bpm which isn't easy with the amount of climbing in Chatelherault.  The pace was going well on the first lap until we met some friends who were running quicker.  Without realising it we picked up the pace so when completing the fist lap in 43 minutes I was surprised and worried at the same time as I still had a lap to go.  The second lap was 44 minutes so I was very pleased to have maintained this pace on a difficult run.  My trail shoes felt good although my foot was a bit niggly when I was driving home.  I just have to keep an eye on that and my leg will be getting strapped again on Thursday which will help.
I paid the final, non-refundable, payment to the race so that's it - no backing out now.  In a few weeks I'll be booking the flight and accommodation.  Soon I'll start buying the equipment that I'll need for the race.  It's starting to become real and having cleared my calendar there will be nothing to distract me from this goal.  So no rest for the wicked as they say!

Swashbuckler revisited

A year ago I completed the Swashbuckler 70.3 (half ironman) in my best ever time of 5 hours 32 minutes.  It was such a good event that 6 of us, with 2 support members, decided to give it a go so we all headed down to the New Forest on Friday to get ready for Sunday's race.  Much banter was thrown around but when the alarm went off at 3.45 this morning it got serious.  I woke the house up to "Black Betty" at full blast just to get everyone energised.
As a group we were doing different distances; some standard/Olympic distance and others, including me, the half distance -  1.9k swim, 90km bike and 22 km run.  Unusually for me I needed three trips to the loo to "lose some weight" and two of them were in portaloos which involved holding my breath for longer than is healthy!
We were informed that the water temperature was 16 degrees but that we had some company in the water - jelly fish!  It was a tough tidal swim and I was delighted to get through it as my shoulder was still strapped up and I'd only been swimming for about 7 weeks.  In transition the strapping on my leg came off so I wasn't sure how this would affect me on the run - the good news is that it didn't.
I gave the bike everything I had as the temperature started to rise, but I was 12 minutes behind where I was last year and felt I perhaps pushed it too hard.  My effort came home to roost on the run.It's a slightly unusual run in that, in old money, its 14 miles - 2 x 7 mile laps on an undulating course (152 metres of ascending).  Half way through the first lap I knew that I was in trouble.  I was walking some of the hills and wanting to bin the race.  Knowing my time was nowhere near last years I lost my focus and also the fact this was meant to be a "long training session" not a race.  I am cross training with swimming, cycling and running only to build my fitness and reduce the chance of injury.   After all my A Race is the Grand Caynon in September.
It's amazing the mind games that go on when you are in a dark place when running, or swimming or cycling for that matter.  I knew at the half way point the supporters would be cheering me on, they were going mad which was great, but I just walked up the hill shaking my head saying "this is about survival" - 7 miles to go.  I started the second lap well but the heat really started to take its toll.  I was running at the same pace as another runner but she was beginning to really suffer so I decided that my race was over and I'd help her finish the race - this was as much to give me a reason to continue as anything else.  On route a runner had collapsed with heat exhaustion and an ambulance was soon with him.  My time was a disappointing 6hrs 21 minutes but as I reflect on this there were some important lessons to be taken away.
I got over the fear of jelly fish in a tough tidal swim.  I need to remember why I entered the race and not get caught up in the event itself - it gave me a competitive training day which benchmarked where I am with my fitness.  It highlighted that my core fitness is lacking but that's no real surprise.  What this will do is motivate me to get stronger which will be important for the canyon. Despite the poor time I will take heart that having walked a fair bit of the run my position in my age category was 4th!  A small reward for keeping going when really I'd happily have put my feet up and have had a beer.  The biggest learning was the mental strength that you need to get through the dark moments and the pain.  The support team were amazing and really lifted my spirits when it was most needed.  This event has been a good and timely reminder for what lies ahead. More work to be done. Bring it on.