I'm the common denominator

When it comes to drama, guaranteed I'll be at the root of it. And today's run took it to a whole new level.

According to my training schedule, a 35-mile run was on the cards. The original plan was to run from Bridge of Orchy to Fort William, but recent snow storms across Scotland forced us to change plans to lower-lying grounds.

Cairn was staying at my Mum's last night, so we could both run today. I left the house with the view to running onto the WHW, taking the road round to Balmaha and then back on the WHW up Conic Hill and onto Milngavie. Sonic was doing the similar route, but leaving after me to catch up.

All was going well until I started going up Conic Hill. The further I went up, the deeper the snow got. In hindsight I was ill prepared for the conditions. The temperature was close to freezing, but the wind-chill factor would have taken it well below that. Some kind soul had kicked most of the steps, so I followed them. If I had half a brain cell I would turned back, but I was committed (oh and a little bit stubborn) and was moving closer to the summit. I called Sonic to explain the situation (mini-tantrum) who informed me he was at the bottom of hill. Descending the other side was when I got myself into a real pickle. I was waist-deep in thick snow, soaking wet and freezing my ass off. There was a layer of ice on top of snow, which was shredding my legs. Despite knowing this route like the back of my hand, the path was non-existent and I felt as if I was (literally) rolling about aimlessly. I was a blubbering, snottering wreck. As dramatic as it sounds, I honestly feared for my life.

Panic calls to Sonic (mega-tantrum), who tried to calm me and find out where I was. He informed me he was down at the bridge (after going from Drymen). "WTF? You mean you're not on this hill". I was expecting him to appear behind, like a knight in shining armour. "F*ck no, it's waist-deep up there", was the reply. After what seemed like an eternity of trudging through snow, he appeared in the distance. Given the way I had previously acted he would have been forgiven for just leaving me there!!

Sonic was a little more prepared (from his mountain rescue training) than me, and piled me up with a fleece sweater and a wind-proof jacket. My survival kit consisted of some sweets, a cap, babywipes and an ipod! He later informed me that I was gibbering rubbish and shaking uncontrollably. I must admit being that cold and that disorientated - it's amazing that a route you know so well becomes unrecognisable in different conditions - was very scary. What would normally take 30 minutes, took over two hours. And I would probably take the prize for being the most ill equipped/prepared runner on the hills.

Although, at a lower level - the snow-depth had shrunk to a more manageable knee-deep, it was a few miles on the route to Drymen before we could start running. There were a few walkers out enjoying - what was then - as lovely snow-covered path. I had piled the layers of clothing on top of my backpack, so I must have looked like a Ninja turtle approaching.

We met another runner - Sarah who was training for the Fling - just outside of Drymen. She must have thought I was slightly unhinged, given the ensemble and the gibbering story of my Conic Hill adventure.

Anyway, the show must go on. Although If I was given the option of airlift of the hill to never run again, I would have taken it. Back in the land of normality (or at least normal body temperature) I had waved off the notion of hitching a lift and changed the route to running back over the Balloch Horseshoe home. 33 miles in total. If good ultra-running training is about time of feet, then that was a quality run. Although it's not an experience I would want to repeat, EVER.

Sitting of the comfort of my sofa with a chilled glass of wine (for medicinal reasons, obviously) I probably did act a little OTT. When I told Sonic I thought Cairn was going to be orphaned, he said "but he would still have me". Really, it's two of the same thing. I would just leave two boys without responsible guidance and care. Although Sonic has had the satisfaction of referring to me as a "fking idiot" more often than absolutely necessary this afternoon. Next time, I'll pack more appropriately. Well, maybe. It has given me something to blog about :-)

Ginger Ninja Security Services

Hi folks, Sorry it's been a while. I have started many posts, but never got round to finishing them. Shame I can't say the same about a bottle of wine :-) Anyway here's a summary (a combination of half-baked posts) of the life o' Debs over the last week (s) or so.

Saturday, November 14.

If it wasn't for the fact that I was meeting Ian and Sharon on Saturday morning for a WHW run (Milngavie to Balmaha), I could have easily been persuaded into having a PJ day. It was wet 'n' wild and I felt a little out of sorts.

The topic of conversation was always going to be that week's "incident". One flippant, tongue-in-cheek blog posting and Ian's character and intent was questioned and scrutinised. Thankfully everyone who knows or has met him would agree he's a top-notch, thoroughly decent guy. How could a man who carries hand gel to disinfect his hands after an al fresco comfort break possibly have a malicious bone in his body? :-) Even if his name was marked, he had the two red-heads from Ayrshire there to protect him. Well, Sharon could have talked them to death :-)

Although the weather wasn't great, we had a fab day out. The rain was pretty consistent apart from a dry spell from the Beech Tree Inn when we were wading through knee deep (that's thigh deep for Sharon) puddles anyway.

As you will no doubt know, long runs are always a game of peaks and troughs. I had quite a few more troughs than normal. You know you're in good company when I yelped "Jeez I'm totally bonking" and no one bats an eyelid. Thankfully I had an emergency gel to save the day. Next time, I'll be back to my ol' faithful jelly babies though.



Arriving in Balmaha, where Sonic had kindly "volunteered" to pick us up, we were sodding wet and mankie. I have to admit, I was slightly broken as well. And sitting in the car in wet clothes back to Milngavie didn't help. I felt pretty rubbish for the rest of the day and couldn't face food until about 8pm. Then I was spewing during the night, so I guess I had a bit of a bug. Not a bug with hands and feet before you ask!

W/c November 16

I took a couple of days off and then did a 8 mile tempo on Tuesday (ave 7:47), 500 reps on Wednesday and a club run on Thursday (ave 7:59). On Friday I went out with Johnston's Joggers (I think this could stick, Mark) to do strides on Glasgow Green's football pitches. This time I arranged to meet Sonic et al there, as there was no danger of me doing my 10K pace to keep up with them.

Sunday I was out with Sharon for 14 miles around the Balloch Horseshoe. Sharon usually describes her routes as "a bit bumpy" or "challenging". I described this one as: "It starts off very hilly and then gets less very hilly". The weather was favourably to start, but then the wind and rain picked up. The last few miles were a case of heads down and think happy thoughts. A cracking run and considering the gradients we were happy to average 8.40 m/m.

This week (yay, I'm up-to-date!)

This week the wind will be playing havoc on a lot of people's training. Yesterday I did a seven mile tempo round the west end (ave 7:55). Considering I didn't get to sleep until 4am, courtesy of small child with a cold, I really enjoyed my run - in the style of JK.

Cairn (and Sonic for that matter) pretty much slept through the night, and I was awake listening to little grunts coming from his room. And then would freak out when I didn't hear little grunts. He kept coughing himself awake and in the end I sent Sonic to the sofa and brought Cairn in with me. Now I know why his cot is back-to-front and inside-out in the morning. I've never seen so many involuntary body movements in my life. I was walloped in the head, karate-chopped in the face, kicked in the stomach. Next time, I bagsy the sofa.

This morning I got up well before the sun to do my reps, so I could do some Christmas shopping at lunchtime. 20 x step reps in Kelvingrove park. Big tick. Three new tops for me. Fail. Oh well, must try harder.

Phew! That's it folks. I'm off for a wee lie down...

From 5K to more on the Way

Quick running update...

Saturday: I got a PB in the Glasgow Parkrun 5K :-) Just a piddly 23:32, but a PB's a PB. As Sharon would say "I don't have a fifth gear", so short speedy races are not for me. But I must say, I really enjoyed it. Even the nasty hills. When I told Sonic of my enjoyment he informed that I "didn't work hard enough". Probably wise words, but I like to come away on a high rather than having my eyes hanging out of my head.

Sunday: I went on a run with Sonic on the Kilpartick hills. Yes, me running on hills. With Sonic. And we didn't even fall out once. Even despite the fact that his course description could be deemed as false advertising. What was billed as a scenic "trail" route was in fact knee-deep in sodden wet grass. I'm sure the views were amazing, but we chose a really wet day and I could barely see my feet.






Tuesday: Mile reps round Knightswood Park. 6.38, 6.31, 6.30 (with 2-3 min recoveries)

Thursday: 6m club run. It was on the Kelvin Walkway and then on to Great Western Road. Enough said.

Saturday: This was to be my longest run in preparation for the Devil O' the Highlands. A nice 35 miles from Bridge of Orchy to Fort William. I didn't have any times in my head, I just wanted to get the miles in my legs. No pressure, so I just went out and ran how I felt. It seemed to work, as I felt brilliant the whole way. The weather was perfect for me - wet and wild ;-) Bit treacherous on some of the descents though - especially the Devil's Staircase, which had turned into a river. And it was mighty chilly at the tops. I finished in 6:30:56, which is not too shabby. I felt really strong at the end and even managed the last few miles in 7:30m/m. What started out as a day of jogging, turned into a race against the clock. It's been a real confidence booster. I'm still on a high. All I need to do is add on another 6/7 miles, throw in some race day adrenaline, mix with a dollop of healthy competition and I should be aiming for 7hr 30 mins on race day, don't you think?

Sonic did a stirling job as support. He was great. No stopping and messing about, just a quick drop off and pick up. That's the way it should be on shorter distance ultra marathons (now that's an oxymoron). I didn't take on a lot of food and drink, but what I did have was perfect. Two GO bars, two gels, 100g of jelly babies and some dilluting juice with Nunn tablets.

Four days on the Way

It's only 10 weeks until the Devil o' the Highlands and I'm having a slight panic. I know many readers of this blog will think that 43 miles with a little tiny 5000ft in ascent is a walk in the park. Though for every one of you, there's a million who think it just plain stupid. But for me it's my biggest (running) challenge of the year and one that's making me slightly edgy right now.

The first time I did this race in 2007, I was a little cocky to say the least. I distinctly remember sending Sonic a weblink with the subject title "Fancy this?" My reasoning was: "surely if we can run a marathon, we can walk/jog this?". Pah! We did one training run - from Kingshouse to Fort William - which nearly had me in crutches for a week. I was truly and utterly broken. You know the runs that have you practically in tears towards the end? Let's just say I wasn't so cocky after that. I wasn't even sure I would make to the end of the race let alone make it within the 12 hour cut off time. But somehow I scraped my sorry ass over the finishing line in 8:48. It was certainly a life changing experience. Now our whole lives revolve around the glorious trails of the West Highland Way. Cairn has seen more trails than the inside of his crib. Thankfully he's so happy and content, that we can take him anywhere.

So in the midst of my panic I decided to take in two long runs over the bank holiday weekend. As Sonic was taking part in the two-day training weekend, it involved regimental planning: three shopping trips, two cars, a caravan, 450 miles of driving and 120 miles of running. Not to mention drop-off bags, checkpoint pit stops and the small matter of a small child.

My first run was from Kingshouse to Fort William. Just a piddly 23.5 miles with 3000ft of ascent. The main aims were to finish it, enjoy it and feel better than I did on my first attempt. Big tick on all three. I loved it. It was a glorious sunny day and I felt brilliant the whole way. It was great having Sonic as support, although his skills aren't as fine-tuned as mine. When I got to Kinlochleven he was in full-on panic because Cairn needed feed AND changed. As babies do. And when I got to Lundarva he was busy cleaning his car with babywipes. WTF? He did turn up in all the right places and tell me I looked good, even thought he was telling fibs. I have learnt of late what difficult, often tedious and thankless task supporting is, so I really appreciate my boys coming out.

I did (kind of) return the favour by supporting Sonic on his two-day adventure. I let him take my car and leave it at Balmaha. Surely that's helping? I didn't make it up until the troops (Sonic, JK, Sharon and Davie) were over the lochside. Davie had texted me en route and me to pick him up, as his ITB was giving him jip. No problem thought I. I'd soon be passing his pick-up point. What he neglected to mention was that he wasn't actually there yet... before he dissappeared out of mobile signal. I drove up and down the A82, in out of the farm road and back and fourth to Tyndrum. I couldn't get hold of anyone and couldn't find Davie. I was convinced he was hiding in bushes laughing at me. I swear the Nazis could have found Anne Frank quicker. By the time I found Sonic et al I was a bit on the ratty side. They duly informed me that the abandoned Davie was behind them. One more drive down the road and there he was. Looking like a drowned rate. And smelling like a wet dog. Nevertheless, he was still upbeat - considering.

After having dinner in the Bridge of Orchy Hotel and a night at the Pinetrees in Tyndrum, Sonic set off on day two of JK's pacing class. Late. Maybe he slowed down his pace a bit too much. Actually maybe that's why he goes off too fast at the beginning - because he's always late and has to catch up on time? Mmm there's food for thought.

I spent the day with Mrs JK, Dr Crazy German and Davie. At least we knew when Sonic and JK would be arriving. You can set your heart by JK's timings. When I asked Mrs JK what her thoughts were on ETAs she said with a smirk: "What, you don't have a laminated sheet with splits and pace?" I'm sure it would have been useful if we referred to it. I think JK was a little close to spitting the dummy as I continued to ask him about arrival times. Obviously not referring to said laminated sheet.

So Monday, it was back to my turn for running. I opted to run back to Balmaha to pick up my car. The original plan was to spend Sunday night in the caravan and run along the loch back to Balmaha. But after spending a rainy Sunday in the car, I couldn't face being coped up in another tin can, so we just drove home.

My quads were still very tendor, but I thought I'd give it a bash. I even put the bus timetable in my rucksack in case I decided to bow out early. I ran over the horseshoe to meet the WHW before Drymen. I took it easy and wasn't even remotely bothered that I reached Drymen three minutes behind last week's time. In hindsight the reserved pace meant I could run all the way to the bottom of Conic Hill - even the nasty inclines. And even managed to run up about 40% of Conic. My quads were only causing me grief on the downhills. Actually it took me 19 mins to get up Conic Hill and 16 mins to come off the other side. I think I mentally yelped the whole way down. Despite the slow start I finished one minute faster than last week and felt a million times better. Proper pacing definitely makes a huge difference. Doesn't it. Sonic?

On another note: On the way back from Fort William on Sunday we discussed the changes being made on the West Highland Way. Horrible new gates, removing stiles, clearing forest, detour paths etc... All because of health and safety. You can tell the decision makers have never walked the WHW. This is my favourite H&S hazard - on the way to Drymen.

The path over the bridge often floods.


Which forces hikers/runners to walk along the small wall. Don't want to get wet feet afterall.


But steady those wobbly legs as there's 30ft drop on to the rocky river below.


Maybe I shouldn't have pointed this out. There will probably be a handrail there next week.

Multitasking

This weekly blogging is becoming a bit of a habit. Maybe I'm not superwoman after all. I'm mean with being a full-time working Mother (minus the childcare), 247 milk machine, maid, cook, coach and wannabe athlete, you'd think I'd have loads of time on my hands. Thankfully I'm a member of the fairer sex and just get on with it. Although I did take it to a new level last week I was feeding Cairn, making the dinner and replying to emails on my Blackberry at the same time.



So I've been back working for the last couple of weeks. Well, working from home. I wasn't sure I was motivated enough, but I actually get loads more done. And I'm lovin' it. Not that I've ever been away from work you understand. Sonic used to threaten to confiscate my Blackberry.

Although I love hanging out with Cairn, I'm so not cut-out to be a stay-at-home-Mom. I did try the baby group thing. A baby massage class, in fact. The first couple of weeks were great. But by week five we were still talking about our childbirth experiences and breastfeeding, so I losing the will to live. Maybe they were a little more wholesome than me. Especially when they were excitedly telling me about the Baby Rhythm Time class they go to on a Friday morning. I found myself saying: "oh that would be lovely" when really I thinking: "I'd rather stab myself in the eye with a rusty compass". I never went back.

I have converted the room (uh hum, cupboard) under the stairs into my office. Now I know how Harry Potter felt. I spend many long hours without even a window for sanity. I pretty much start work as soon as I get up. Given the light mornings, can be as early as 5am. When we move house, I promise I'm going to buy black-out blinds. My early morning meanderings could be grounds for divorce. The only thing with working from home, is there's no cut off point. No 9 to 5. So I could be sitting at my PC at 6am and still working at 10pm.

I'm usually up and organised before Cairn even stirs. And he sleeps through the night. I know, I've been blessed. Actually there was a day last week, when I had to wake him up at 9.45am. Not because it might mess up his routine, but because I was starting to look like Lola Ferrari. Anyway, I wished I had left him sleeping. Within the space of 30 minutes he'd puked on me, peed on the carpet and sh*t in the bath. Babies, eh? Can't live with 'em. Can't sell them on Ebay :-)

This week it's been a hard slog trying to fit in some running and general exercise. On Tuesday night, I did my usual 10-mile on the Balloch Horseshoe. Sonic always mocks me for running the same routes all the time. Does anyone else do this? I don't usually like a route until I've done it a few times. On Thursday, I did my usual seven mile tempo run round Dumbarton. See me, see creature of habit.

But wait, On Saturday I pushed the boat right out and did something different - I ran from the house (via Drymen) to Balmaha. OK it starts on the Balloch Horseshoe and I have ran from Drymen to Balmaha more times than I can mention, but I've never linked it all together. And I've never done the bit in the middle. Does this count? Wow what a great route. Undulating country roads, peaceful cycle paths and then onto the West Highland Way before Drymen. I knew this was going to be a tough 18.5 mile run, but I didn't really flag until I got to Conic Hill. I was pretty glad my journey would be over at the other side. I tried to run as much as I could, but was reduced to walking at the mega steep bits. Except when I jogged past a group of hikers and I overheard one saying "Look, there's a fell runner". Oh boll*cks! I felt obliged to keep going to save face. Thankfully the wind was behind me on the way up, but it didn't help on the descent on the other side. Being pushed off a steep muddy hill in road shoes wasn't pleasant. And the fact that my quads were screaming didn't help. Hopefully giving my legs are good kickin' should see me right for my first long run on the WHW - Kingshouse to Fort William. It's my favourite section, so I can't wait.



total time 3:19. Average pace 10:56 m/m

Little Sonic on Conic

A little jaunt up Conic Hill is becoming a bit of a bank holiday tradition. This time we had Cairn - enjoying his first hill walk. Well at least it was his first hill walk in the outside world. He was so underwhelmed by it all, he practically slept the whole journey.





The Bank Holiday Conic Hill dash is becoming a tradition for Team Kynaston too, as we bumped into them en route - for the third time. We're not stalking you. Honest!

I'm looking for a half marathon in June/July. Most of them seem to be on June 21, which are out because of the WHW race. I'm contemplating Girvan or Stonehaven halfs. Has anyone done either or have any suggestions for alternatives?

First day on the job

As I have resigned myself to being Sonic's support and coach for next year's WHW race, today was my first day on the job. The support role is a skoosh. I threw him out the car in the pouring rain at Beinglas Farm and stopped at various checkpoints along the way to Tyndrum. He did all the hard graft and I read a book and chucked a couple of gels out the window. I think I got a good deal.



(A slightly wet and shell-shocked runner)

As previously mentioned we were going away to celebrate Sonic's 34th birthday. We stayed at the Isle of Glencoe Hotel, which was really nice. The room had fabulous views over Loch Leven, which I'm sure would be lovely on a nice day. Unfortunately today was anything but nice. Although it was quite comforting swimming about in the hotel pool watching the trees bend outside. Shame I couldn't use the spa facilities though.

For dinner we went along to the Kinlochleven Seafood Cafe, which I would highly recommend. It was definitely worth battling through the torrential rain for. The food is delicious and fresh, portions are huge and price is really reasonable. Sonic even ordered lobster and managed not take the other diners out in the process of opening it. Although he nearly lost a finger using the crackers. I went for the safe beat of scallops and smoked salmon. I even ordered the starter portions with a view to saving a little space for dessert, but I was totally stuffed.

Last run on the WHW

This was to be the grand finale to months of training. An easy run from Drymen to Balmaha. Sonic was doing an out and back, but I think that requires a mental strength that I don't have. There's just something soul destroying about it. I opted to run to Balmaha and then to take the road round (or the cheaters' choice) through Milton of Buchanan back to Drymen.

I knew today, we'd be going through the "this time next week..." game. Starting today's run just before 10am, I was hoping that this time next week I'd be between Inversnaid and Beinglas.

My plan on the day is to run this section in 1:40, so that was my aim for today. It was a glorious day. Perfect for a slow, easy run. After checking out others runners' race plans, Sonic was aiming for 1:20. I was very sceptical when I sent him on his way.

The pace was very comfortable and, as with previous training runs, I was concentrating on keeping my effort levels fairly low.

I made the fatal mistake of running without breakfast, but it didn't really take it's toll until I started heading up Conic Hill. My legs felt empty.

Heading over the top of the hill, I spotted the familiar sight of Sonic's red t-shirt on the way back up. He got to Balmaha in 1:02. I know, he's a lost cause. To be fair, he's the only person I know who can take hills like he's running on flat.

Reaching Balmaha carpark in 1:29 I had a two minute breather before heading round the road.

Sonic and I have often wondered why the Way goes over Conic Hill instead of round. Maybe it was boggy or inaccessible in previous times? Anyway today I worked out why. It's a bloody nightmare. It goes up and up and up - forever. On the plus side, it's considerably shorter. Only about 4.5 miles, compared to 7 miles. So, 11.5 miles all in today. In a steady 2:15. And no foot problems. Yippee.

So a couple of easy runs next week and, well, bring it on.

Garscube WHW Relay Race

Saturday was Garscube Harriers' annual West Highland Way relay race. Four teams set out from Milngavie at 7am. The route was split into 12 bitesize (or big cry baby) sections. It's not a real relay as such. People don't wait until their handover team member arrives - otherwise we would have been there all day. Each section starts off a various times throughout the day. With the last leaving Lundarva at 3.45pm. The winning team was the team with the lowest cumulative time across all team members.


Sections are mostly allocated at random, but members could request their preferred option. I had asked for the Lochside, as I've only walked it once and ran it once. My knowledge was fairly limited, so I just wanted to familiarise myself for the final time.

I started at Rowardennan at 9.45am. I was adamant that I was sticking to race pace all the way along. OK, maybe a little faster, but I was mostly concentrating on not raising my heart rate and just keeping my breathing relaxed. So the other three runners went tearing off and I sauntered on behind. I know it wasn't the best team spirit, but there was no way I could risk hurting my foot more or wearing myself out.

I had a bit of an epic first mile. After the drama of my foot bone pain over the last few weeks, I'm starting to think there are lots of signs that I shouldn't be doing the race. Firstly my Garmin (which I had to replace in January) decided to give up the ghost. Then I broke the strap on my favourite hydration pack. So I had to spend the next 13 miles with a pack rattling round my neck and shoulders. I don't even get me started on the midges :-(

All was not lost though. It was a glorious day. I know this section is dreaded by many walkers and runners, but the lochside is a totally different place in the sunshine. Both my previous journeys were through torrential ran. It was so still and quiet, so I never got to scare any walkers. Huff!

I finished (very comfortably) in 3:12. I really took it easy, so I was quite pleased as I'll be aiming for 3.40 on the big day. More importantly, there was loads left in me and I really enjoyed the section. I actually think (or hope!) I'll enjoy it on the day. It really takes the pressure off and you don't have to worry about time or pace. I just jogged along thinking: Oh look there's a hill, best walk. Oh and no point running across boulders. I even stopped the chat to a few folks. And offered to take tourists' pictures. Mmm I wonder how many people in my team read this blog. Yikes. Off to check....Sh*te I've just noticed that Alex and Ben were on my team. Alex - don't forget to sponsor us. Yes, I was tipsy but not that tipsy. And Ben you're going to be annoyed later in the this posting anyway...

After I finished my leg, I went on the pick up Sonic who was running from Beinglas to Tyndrum. And guess what? He was gubbed after racing Alex and Euan. Some boys will never learn. So then I had to listen to him whining about losing speed and not being able to run 12 miles. Despite telling him frequently that he was never going to cover the section in 1:40 during the race...it went in one ear and ended up in Australia.



We followed the route along to support the folks running the latter stages. As we cheered and clapped we were greeted with various comments (some quite colourful) about our quest to run the full thing. I suppose at least people appreciate it.

After the day was over, the majority of the troops stayed over at the Inchree Centre in Onich. There was lots of fine food and beers consumed. Big thanks to everyone who organised a fantastic day out.

The aforementioned Ben is Garscube's latest (and fastest) American recruit. He entertained us with his impression of the local neds mocking his yellow shorts. After a few beers, this was THE funniest thing I've ever heard.




Anyone see the similarity between Ben and Groundskeeper Willie from The Simpsons? Sorry, Ben, but that could stick. That's one in the bank for the Garscube lookalike award at the Christmas party.

After a restless night in the sauna that is the Inchree Centre, I woke up at 7am. Not wanting to disturb the gals in the dorm I decided to go out and read some papers. That was short lived. The midges were out in full force. I sat in the car waiting for a suitable time to chap up Marco and the guys. Just after 8am Marco found me at the door of the boys' dorm scratching, break-dancing and shrieking: "please get me out of this midge infested hell-hole". And that concludes another romantic break in the Scottish Highlands.

And the Marco-ism (s) of the trip 1) Asking the organisers whether the relay finished at the End of Way sign or at the sports centre? As if. 2) When driving from the finish to the Inchree Centre, Marco decided he wanted to drink one of the beers we had packed. Despite the fact I was driving he asked me all in seriousness if I "wanted to share one with him"

Better the Devil you know

...And the Devil was my first ultra. June 2007 seems so long ago. After dossing about on the Internet, I stumbled across the site for the Devil o' the Highlands. After sending Sonic the link under the title "fancy this", I proceeded with - we've run marathons, how hard can 43 miles be? How naive was I? Click here for my report on last year's race.

So, today was the Devil o' the Highlands - take two.

After spending the night on Bridge of Orchy - caravan trip take two - we arrived in Tyndrum shortly after 6am. Sonic was supporting me again and was delighted to be up so early. Especially when we were being attack by midges. And boy do they like Sonic.

The usually uneventful road to Bridge of Orchy was very dramatic. Firstly I was attacked by a sheepdog, which had me pinned against a fence. Snarling and barking with its front legs down, there was no way it was letting m past. I suppose it didn't help that I was screaming like a big girl. Thankfully the farmer appeared with his other sheepdogs and went completely mental at it. Strangely enough he didn't even acknowledge the fact that I was there. I wasn't bothered though, as I was out of there.

Then I was faced with the next drama - a huge herd of highland cows directly in my path. I was absolutely terrified. I know, I'm a big kiff. I was convinced the ones with horns were bulls. Thanks Brian for telling us the charging bull story. On my approach, the wee coos were scuttling all over the place. All I needed one of those massive beasts to get all protective. They were making lots of noises, so I convinced they were devising a plan to kill me. In the end, I opted on a complete detour up and round the field. Think I need to get a bit braver for race day. The last thing I need is extra distance. Especially through marshy fields.


I was relieved to get to Bridge of Orchy. I dumped my rucksack with Sonic and headed up the hills. It always feels fabulous to lose the weight off my back. I covered the section in my fastest time. Sonic even noticed and warned me to cool it.

Over Rannoch Moor there was a strong head wind. The morning had the potential to be quite muggy, so the cool wind was quite refreshing. I felt really strong all the way over and didn't walk once. I would rather stay slow and steady, rather than do the whole stop/start strategy.

I arrived at the ski centre in 3.15 hrs. Sonic informed me that Mags and Eric (WHW runners) were also out training. Mags had started at Bridge of Orchy and was behind me. Eric had started at Tyndrum before 6am and was in front of me.

The WHW is quite lonely first thing in morning, but leaving Kingshouse just after 9.30 was like trying to get along Buchanan Street. It was after breakfast, so there were hoards of people heading over to the Devil's staircase. I met Sonic again at the bottom - who supplied me with energy bars and juice for the journey to Kinlochleven. The staircase was its usually stomping slog. It was really quick chilly, which was a welcomed relief. At the top I screamed out a very loud "woohoo", only to run over the brow to see a group of tourists staring at me in bemusement.

I felt the road into Kinlochleven was tougher than normal. The steep descents were playing havoc with my quads. I met Sonic at the checkpoint. Thankfully he didn't tell me I was running three minutes behind my Devil's race time. Eric had arrived before me. I didn't get a chance to chat with him, as I was trying to limit my stops to two minutes max. Sonic had bought me a bottle of real coke - something I haven't drank since I was a child. Alyson Macpherson had told me that this gives her a real boost during the race. Wow was she right. It was an instant pick me up. 250ml and I was born again.

I always think the Devil's route is a game of two halves. The first 30 miles and then from Lairig Mor into Fort William. The ascent out of Kinlochleven can zap everything, but I felt great. I chatted to a few folks as I passed them on the way up. One chap even asked if I was "training for that crazy race?". The whole way over to Lundavra I mentally repeated "steady breathing. Slow jog". Sometimes I can get quite stressed and tense when I'm tired, which is a vicious circle. The calmer I feel, the better I run. I kept the pace steady and my body relaxed. The only real low point I had in the day, was a sugar-slump about half a mile from Lundarva. That was easily sorted with another dose of coke and a small bag of jelly babies. I practically flew all the way to Fort William. I was hyper and cheerily greeted everyone I passed. They must have thought I was mental - especially when the asked where I started or far I'd come. I covered the last few miles in 8m/m. I felt great and didn't have any aches and pains. Sonic was waiting for me at the Braveheart Carpark - along with Eric's support. Another swig of coke and I sprinted the way into Fort William.

I finished in 8.37, which is over 12 minutes faster than my Devil's race time. I wasn't really bothered about time. OK, maybe a little. My main focus was to finish strong, which I did. I had a great run and enjoyed every minute of it. At the end of last year's race I was an emotional and physical wreck for the last ten miles, as I've never experienced so much pain. To be fair, I didn't train properly. This year, I'm much better prepared. The next time I start this route, I'll have 53 miles in my legs.

Main points from today

1) Injinji socks are the best.
2) Coke rocks!
3) Two minutes at each checkpoint is suffice. I'd much rather walk and refuel.
4) Soaking my buff in water and wearing it round my neck really kept my head cool.
5) I ate three SIS Go bars, two gels and a 100g bag of jelly babies.
6) I drank three litres of diluting juice with Nunn tablets. And 600ml of coke.
7) I had two bottles 5 hour energy.
8) I look forward to the day when I can go to the toilets at Fort William's Morrison without fearing my own reflection in the mirror.

Times from the run:

Meeting point arrival time (depart time)
Bridge of Orchy 1.10 (1.11)
Victoria Bridge 1.44 (1.46)
Glencoe ski centre 3.15
Kingshouse 3.25 (3.28)
Devil's Staircase 4.02 (4.03)
Kinlochleven 5.31 (5.33)
Lundavra 7.13 (7.15)
Braveheart carpark 8.29
End of Way sign 8.37


Big thanks to Sonic for being fabulous support. I couldn't have done it without him.

Things you see when you don't have a camera: Two well-groomed girls walking on Lairig Mor. Both wearing skirts and knee high boots and carrying shopping bags. WTF?

Kingshouse to Fort William

Even though I ran this section last Sunday, I wanted to give it another bash on fresh(er) legs. It is my favourite section after all, so I always welcome the opportunity to run on it.

As always, the adventure starts with the journey. En route to Kingshouse we had to take a massive detour, as the A82 on the lochside was closed. We were turned back just before Ardlui because an inconsiderate Royal Mail driver had decided to nose-dive his van into the loch. Sitting at 90 degrees, held up by a telegraph pole, the emergency services had informed us the road would be closed for a couple of hours.

We arrived at Kingshouse slightly exhausted, irritable and way behind scheduled. Setting off at 10.30, the heat quickly toke it's toll. On the ascent of the Devil's Staircase I was wishing the weather forecast was right, as a little shower would have been very refreshing.

Sonic had packed extra light, with only a water bottle and some jelly babies? Guess who's race strategy he was copying? I was a tad envious, as my back was on fire with a backpack. That was short-lived though, as he scrambled about trying to find water from streams that had dried up.

My quads ached a little on the descent into Kinlochleven, but they felt much better than they had all week.

There was a cross-bike race taken place around Kinlochleven and the bikes threw up lost of dust as they passed. As if my mouth wasn't drive enough. At least the stinging eyes took the focus off my quads.

The ascent out of Kinlochleven was it's usual evil self. I managed to take out my discomfort by snarling at grown-men on bikes, who didn't even acknowledge that we'd stepped off the path to let them pass.

The route to Lundarva was pretty uneventful. Thankfully it was a little cooler than anticipated. Even from there to Fort William was OK. I was determined to stay positive after the "Bermuda Triangle". It wasn't going to suck me in again. Lots of positive chat was required. The track down to the town was a little uncomfortable. But hey, I need to train my quads. Although Sonic was laughing at the little voice behind him whimpering "I really don't think I should be doing seven minute miles" ;-)

We finished in 4:43, which was 10 minutes ahead of last week's run. Kinlochleven 1:43, out 1:51, Lundarva 3.26 and to the beautiful end of Way sign 4:43. Total distance 23.3. Ascent 933m. Average pace 12.10.

We celebrated a great run (and not falling out!) with a night at the Clachaig Inn. After a hearty feast of burger 'n' chips and far to much beer, we were spent by 10pm. That's the party animals in us.

Kinghouse to Fort William

After a great night's sleep, I was woken at 5am to the sound of torrential rain and howling winds. Oh joy. I thought I was really lucky yesterday to escape the forecast. Actually yesterday was glorious, until I sat in the car and there was a downpour. How's that for good timing?

Thankfully by the time I set off at 8am the weather had cleared. Don't get me wrong, I love running in the rain. I'll take rain over heat any day. But raining when I'm running at a slow pace on steep ascents is just unnecessary and downright cruel.

My legs were a little stiff for the first half mile, but then warmed up OK. I felt my breathing was difficult over of the first three miles to the bottom of the devil's staircase. Excuse this, but I felt like there was something to cough up. Ian - there may be reports of you on Way today ;-) I always find my breathing suffers the most when I tired. I would have mugged a walker for a menthol sweet. Note to self: pack menthol sweets for race day.

I was relieved to get to the Devil's Staircase, so I could start walking. I actually always welcome the ascent. The slog from Kingshouse is one of my least favourite parts. Even though the Kinghouse to Fort William section is my favourite part of the WHW.

Up and over the summit, I felt great all the way to Kinlochleven. The track down into the town has been completely flattened. Even more so since I last did the route five weeks ago. It's more like a road now. Made from some gravel that kicks up into your shoes. The steep descents are also quite slippy. Heaven help the cyclist (you know the ones who ignore the "cyclists dismount" signs) who tear down into some walkers.

I reached the ascent out of Kinlochleven five minutes faster than the previous run. I really expected yesterday's run to have taken it's toll. Actually I was looking at running today 20-30 minutes slower. So I pleased at how good I felt. Had another Go Bar on the way up to Lairig Mor. Again, so chewy I got some mileage out of it. I passed four blokes on the way up. One of them got quite competitive, left his pals and started upping the pace behind me. Aye that'll be right. I put him in his place when I picked up and took off at the summit. That's the martyr in me. I could have done with a short breather first, but needs must. Passed (and startled) lots of walkers on the way over. There was even a large group of Spanish (I think!) folks cheering me on with one woman shouting and giggling "we be your support". That's the best thing about the WHW, it's one big global party.

Got to Lundarva, still feeling good. And then as if by magic, started to fade a bit. Nothing to dramatic though. There's just something about this section. That's why I call Lundarva the Bermuda Triangle - because of it's soul sucking ability. Generally my legs felt OK, but my quads were aching a bit. And I knew I was cultivating a few nasty blisters under my damp socks. It was a just a game of peaks and troughs to the end. Through the forest I passed two (army-type) blokes that I passed yesterday on the road to Tyndrum. I don't know who was more shocked to see who. The must have covered a lot of ground in a very short time. Bet they were gutted to see a girl in pigtails pip them to the post again ;-)

As usual the road to Fort William took what was left of me. Finished the whole route in 4:52 (1.47 to Kinlochleven, 1.55 on ascent out, 3.34 to Lundarva and 4.52 to the end). Only one minute faster than March's run, but much better than expected.

I hope I don't have to run when supporting Sonic and Neal tomorrow. Mind you, I couldn't catch up with them even if I was in peak condition. Well, maybe after Beinglas. I'm really looking forward to helping them out tomorrow. Sonic was fabulous as support for me over the weekend. Just a shame he's running the race too. Not much chance of me getting him pregnant...

Beinglas to Kingshouse

Sonic and I have a new toy to play with. Now, lower your eyebrow we've bought something much worse. A caravan. So far everyone's initial reactions have been: WTF? You bought what? I'm sure my family will add this to the long list of reasons why they should disown us. We both agree they're the curse of the road and there's nothing worse than been stuck behind one, but it'll be great for WHW runs and hill walking.

We picked it up last Sunday and our first gypsy road trip started on Friday. We are truly clueless, so I'm sure it will be a learning experience. On the day we got it, Sonic managed to step inside (when it wasn't connected) and tip the whole thing over. Not to worry at least when he was towing it he said he'd "notice if it came off"? Comforting, eh? To be fair he's a dab-hand. A natural gypsy. Even agreeing to have a towbar fitted to his (pride and joy) car was a big step. Mind you, my little Aygo would struggle to pull a dead cat.

Anyway, after a few heated discussions, we agreed to park up at Bridge of Orchy last night. I was running from Beinglas to Kingshouse today.

Started at the campsite at 10am. Sonic went on to meet me at Derrydarroch to take all my layers off me. Although it was a dull day, it was boiling. I was practically fainting when I met him. He was laughing at my big red face and my timed tinkering round the coos.

Onwards I passed loads of walkers. My third favourite pastime (after running and hillwalking) is scaring trekkers on the WHW. I know I should whistle or at least plod, but it's so much fun. This is day four for most walkers, so it's quite comical to see how many couples have fallen out. I felt really great all the way to Tyndrum. I managed to sneak up on Sonic, who was reading a paper in the car, as he didn't expect me to arrive so early.

Quick pip stop to change me socks - which were slipping - and grabbed some more fluids and a Go Sports bar. I tried the bars as pre-London breakfast. Although they're not exactly tasty, they did the trick. I really struggle to eat on runs. And after runs too. Even after London, I couldn't eat until 11pm and even then, I think it was the beer munchies. I ate the bar on the trot. There's a lot of chewing in them, so took me most of the hill out of Tyndrum.

Set out on a good pace to Bridge of Orchy - helped with a nice tail wind. I had a Hammer gel at the next stop. Read on the WHW forum that a lot of people swear by them, so I ordered them online. Jeez they taste awful. It was like swallowing flavoured tar. Again, if it does the trick. Dropped my pack with Sonic, who was going to top up the fluids and give it back to me at Victoria Bridge. I was planning on not stopping at any checkpoints over the weekend.

Stomped up the hill and practically flew down the other side. I was amazed to see a huge gathering of cars and people at the other side. When I met up with Sonic he looked less than amused by the crowd. He wished me luck and warned than there was a Mormon gathering and they were taking over the area. And he was right. There were hundreds - and I really mean hundreds - of people coming from Rannoch Moor. All wearing hankies on their heads and pushing jittery prams across the cobbled Drover's Road...all coming in the opposite direction. I don't know if I was more annoyed about them being in the way or the fact that I couldn't walk on the hills, as I had to save face. I suppose it just spoiled the tranquil solitude of the Moors.

I kept a really good pace even on the ascent out the moors and again blasted down the otherside to the ski centre. I was very conscious of ensuring there was enough in me for tomorrow's run, but I felt brilliant. I had no low points and really enjoyed every minute. Sometimes I think half the battle is taking advantage of a peaks and talking yourself out of the troughs. Positive chat is a wonderful thing.

I finished the whole route in 6:00:31. Was really hoping for under six hours, but hey ho, next time. Last time I did this section (as part of the WHW training run in February) it took 6.05, but I stopped my Garmin at pip and pee stops. Today's time was from start to finish.

Beinglas to Derrydarroch 0.37 (0.37) to Tyndrum 2.31 (1.54) to Bridge or Orchy 3.45 (1.11) to Victoria Bridge 4.24 (44) Kingshouse 6.00 (1.36)

That Fling Thing

Best of luck to everyone who's running The Highland Fling on Saturday.

Special wishes to my new buddies Ian, John, Davie, Thomas, Brian, Mike, Jim, Mags, Tim, Alyson and Ellen. I can't wait to hear all about it. No doubt the boys will be blaming each other for pushing the pace. At least Sonic won't be in trouble this time.

I stumbled upon this quote when looking for an inspiration quote for Sharon's good luck in Lochaber card..."I tell runners to divide a race into thirds. Run the first part with your head, the middle part with your personality, and the last part with your heart"

Just a wee Devil

Who gets up at 5.30 and drives a 100+ mile round trip, just to run 20 odd miles? Oh that'll be me. The WHW troops scheduled in a 43 mile run on the Devil o' the Highlands course - Tyndrum to Fort William. As I'm focusing on London Marathon in two weeks, I'm acting a bit precious and decided to do the more tamer Kingshouse to Fort William section. Just a wee devil. I really should have bowed out of the training run, but I really enjoy them. And quite frankly, I'm scared I miss out on anything. Plus this is my favourite route.

I had pre-arranged to run with Alyson Macpherson - another cautious London-bound runner. Met up with the gang in Tyndrum, ready for their kick-off at 8am. Marco set off with Ian, JK, Gavin, Neal, Thomas and Davie. They were followed by super-support Silke, Caroline (Neal's wife) and Peter (Caroline's father). Alyson and I drove on to Kingshouse. And Tim started from Bridge of Orchy. Jon and Aileen had left earlier, but I never saw them all day.

When we set out the horizontal hailstones were pelting us with a fierce force. I was thankful I was wearing my cap. And my buff was great for protecting my ears. When we reached the bottom of the Devil's Staircase, the weather had calmed and we were pretty much lucky from then on in - apart from a few blustery sections. The outlook from the top was picture perfect. Crisp, blue and clear with amazing snow-clad mountains. I had to excuse myself for my first comfort stop of the day. Talk about room with a view!

Alyson and I gibbered the whole way. She has completed the race four times, so she instantly became my hero. Last year she was pulled at Lundavra. I'm starting to think that Lundavra is the Bermuda Triangle of the WHW. Being a race virgin, I can't get my head round finishing seven miles from the end. I would fall apart, but she's over it and looking forward to breaking 24 hours this year. She finished in 24:03 in 2006!

Alyson was a delight to run with. We both ran half-marathon in 1:42 a few weeks ago, so we were the perfect pacing match. And we both have the same aspirations for London.

I wasn't really paying much attention to my watch, but I know it was bang on 2 hours when we started on the ascent out of Kinlochleven. We passed lots of walkers on the way up. What a bunch of grumpy gits they were. As we greeted them cheerily, the most we got was a few grunts. We came to the conclusion they must be English ;-) Or maybe, given the toxic fumes, there was a hangover or two involved. After a few miles a pair of Americans walker saved the day by clapping and cheering us on, then stopped and shouted: "you're not running because it's a emergency are you?".

I told Alyson to cover her eyes and ears as we passed through Lundavra. We were both still full of beans and even picked up the pace. I remember running this route before the Devil's last year and I died at this point. But to be fair, that was the only training run I did for the race. This year, given all the speed/hill work I've been doing, I feel a lot fitter and much stronger.

Usually the section from Lundavra to Fort William is torturous and endless, but I was still in good form. We ended in a sprint (or as sprinty as sprinting can be after 23 killer miles) towards to gorgeous end of Way sign - which, incidentally, has been broken :-( I doubt I'll finish in 7.20m/m - unless I'm being transported courtesy of the NHS.

Alyson and I chatted so much, that the time flew by. Although she did mention a few things on my blog, so she probably had to listen to my tales all over again and was too polite to say. We finished in 4:53, which I don't think is not too shabby. Feeling quite confident as it was 33 minutes faster than my training attempt last year. And 36 minutes than I did the section in the Devil's race.

Shortly after we finished, the ray of sunshine that is Silke appeared with our food and clean clothes. After a much needed coffee, we headed along to the Braveheart carpark with Caroline and Peter to cheer in some of the guys. After a short while of shivering in the rain, Marco and Thomas appeared. Marco was running on empty (and raiding the boot of the car for foot) but Thomas looked fighting fit. Tim followed closely behind and they all headed off towards the end of the Way. As we followed them in the car, Silke was driving alongside Thomas, hanging out the window and screaming "watch your hamstrings". Who says the WHW family is a disfunctional?

Thomas had a storming finish. He looked like he was simply polishing off a 10K. Apparently the key was in his food consumption. Check out Thomas' blog for his top 'nutrition' tips.

By late afternoon most folks had finished and we all regrouped in the leisure centre. John Kynaston was his usually super positive and thoroughly delightful self - I'm sure little birds dress him in the morning. Neal smiling as always. And Davie being the wee monkey that he is. So all was good in team WHW camp.

Marco, Alyson and I headed back with Silke and Thomas. Marco had introduced Thomas to the term "bonking", which he found highly entertaining and tried to use it in as many sentences as possible. Thomas, word of warning: Bonking is not a word you should use outwith the running circle. Telling your IBM colleagues that "Marco bonked on the WHW" would tarnish my reputation. However, since the journey home, I have learned that Thomas is the only German man I know with a sense of humour, so maybe...

Keys points:

I wore my Injini socks. They are ankle cut length, which is great as I often get water retention and a heat rash if I've been on my feet for a long time. The downside is when they get wet, they slip down your heel. So, all though I didn't have any bother with feet, my heels rubbed and were a bleeding mess at the end.

Took on lots of advice on food and hydration. I know I couldn't handle soup and pasta, like some folks do. Cereal bars, peanut butter and jam pieces, bananas, honey, dates, yoghurt coated raisons and jelly babies are on my list so far.

After London Marathon, I'm going to spend as much time on the West Highland Way as possible.

The more time I spend on the Way and the more time I spend with the crazy folks that have signed up, the most excited I am about the race.