7 Ps

Back to the 7 Ps - piss poor preparation precipitates piss poor performance!  2021 hasn't been a good year for racing results with 2 DNFs recorded (100% "failed").  But whilst I don't like the fail, it's only a fail if you don't learn from it - check out the very short Michael Jordan video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JA7G7AV-LT8 
So now I need to dust myself down and review the season so far, note the words so far!  On Saturday 18th September I am racing the Ring of Steall in the mountains; 29kms with 2,500m of climbing.  It's got a reputation of being tough and unforgiving with narrow exposed ridges and scrambling across rocks.  So on Saturday I headed out with my friend Michael who has run the race before and will be killing it this year as he is in such good shape.  I was so glad to have him there as the weather conditions were suboptimal being wet so the rocks were slippy and with cloud base on the summits.
You are not allowed poles in some sections so for most of the run I didn't use them - that took a bit of getting used to - it's a confidence thing and on the way back down my left ankle must have collapsed at least 6 times - seeing sports therapist tomorrow.  On the narrow ridges at the top of the first summit, not being able to see the sheer drops probably helped and I just kept my focus on the narrow path that got very close to the edges at times.  I'm so glad I didn't attempt this on my own in these conditions.
I had been warned about the scrambling section and to be honest, wasn't looking forward to it especially as it was wet!  But we took our time and it was ok.  The weather wasn't getting better and there were no views to be had so, because of the increase risk with the wet rocks we decided to head back having at least gone over the "Devils Ridge" and scrambled across the tricky section.  In all we'd covered 13km of the 29 km and 1,400m - not a full recce but one that puts me in a much better position for the race.
We headed down the mountain and ran the whole way.  On this section you can use poles and on the day I will be as your tired legs are going to find the terrain difficult.  Fortunately I stayed upright but my left ankle was an issue and I'll get that sorted this week.
I'm very excited about this race.  It has a brilliant reputation and I know it will be a test of my fitness and experience due to the terrain.  But I feel confident, not overly confident, that having done the mini recce I know what to expect so I can prepare my mind and body.  The core strength required for the terrain is essential and as I was running down the hill I could feel my core taking all the undulations and quick changes of direction.  That's come from hours and months of regular core work which I will be "cashing in on" come Saturday.
I am continuing to analyse my last race, URR, and researching various aspects to make 2022 an amazing season and to build and develop my body and mind to be the best I can be - it's all relative.  
Here's to the 7 Ps and I'll report back next week.