ULTRAmarathonRunningStore.com

Some exciting news: I've got a lovely new sponsor in the form of ULTRAmarathonRunningStore.com. 

It's the retail division of the very successful online resource centre ultramarathonrunning.com and - as you may have worked out - specialises in ultra running products, clothing, gear and equipment.  Everything has been designed with the long distance athlete in mind and focuses on the specific needs and requirements of trail and ultra runners.

The products include running backpacks, race vests, waist bags, waist belts, hydration bottles, waist packs, handheld bottles and running shorts with patented mesh pockets.  The ULTRAmarathonRunningStore is the exclusive UK supplier/distributor of ultra-specific products from  innovative manufacturers UltrAspire and RaceReady.



Sonic spent months trying to find a pair of shorts with two pockets - and here's whole range of them!

Current West Highland Way record-holder, Terry Conway wore the UltrAspire SPRY pack and carried two RACE handhelds when he smashed the course record on Saturday.  How's that for celebrity endoresement?


I will be reviewing some of the products over the next couple of months, but please visit ULTRAmarathonRunningStore in the meantime. You also find (and "like") them on Facebook

Who will win the West Highland Way Race??

As I'm not running the West Highland Way Race next weekend, I need something to fill my time :-) I know lots of people will do well and three will place, but who do think will win the Men's and Ladies' race?  Here's the list of contenders (in my humble opinion) in alphabetical order.

Feel free to let me know if I've missed anyone. Get your votes in ...it's anonymous. And just for fun!

Click on VIEW RESULTS underneath the poll to see the scores-on-the-door.

Girls can pee standing up and other lessons learned on the GUCR

Never use bad weather as an excuse not to go for a run.  You need the experience.

The panic training in a heatwave - to acclimatise - isn't necessary.

Local knowledge is power.  Even on a relatively straightforward course. 

If your sole crew member is a car snob, you will feel their eyes boring into your head when the car hire company give you a Hyundai.


The slow meandering when the race starts will always make you giggle.
When you're mid-conversation it's easy to miss the turn - even only a couple of miles in.
Runners will go off too fast and suffer as a result.
Ultrarunning is incestuous. Regardless of who you're talking to, you will always have a mutual friend.
It's not right that Scotland is basking sunshine and you're running about in the p*ssing rain.
Although the route is gorgeous, you could be anywhere.  It's just the accents that's change.
Grass is not the best running terrain.
Living on a canal boat looks like great fun  Although the people who do it are clearly nuts!
People on canal boats think ultrarunners are more nuts. And will tell you so.
Strangers are very kind. 
If you're moving faster than the canal boats, you're doing OK.
Never ask for directions when  90m from your destination and your only mode of transport is your feet.
Don't bother carrying a key for the en course facilities. You won't use them.  Or even see them.
Wear calf guards or long tights, as you won't be able to scratch your nettle stings the neck day.
Virtual support and encouragement is worth it's weight in gold.
Ultrarunners are nice to each other. The dog-eats-dog approach makes you look like a d*ck.
Don't believe the distance is 145, unless you're prepared to walk on water.
Regardless of how old you are, your Mother will be worried sick.
You will think there's no rhythm nor reason to the bridge numbers.
Nourishment milk drinks rock. Although I think the vanilla flavour must be what breast milk tastes like.
The race may curb your enthusiasm for night running.
Men with Rottweilers are actually not as scary as you think.
Don't avoid the puddles. Resistance is futile and a waste of energy.
The Petzl Myo head torch is great, but when it's raining you still can't see for sh*t.
Don't think the person who falls in the canal is an idiot.  You know who the next idiot will be...
Falling in the canal is not the worse thing that could happen.
Losing your head torch in the fall would have a detrimental effect on your ability to continue.
Little humps over locks and bridges are like mountains and a good excuse to walk.
You'll lose the ability to run down hill too. 
People will stay up all night - or have their laptop under their bed - to follow the race online.
If you can stay upright for the duration of the night, you should win a special prize.
The sudden movements in the water are in fact not otters (mental!) - but ducks moving out of your way.
There's no point removing gravel from your shoes, as more gets in.
Food will become your enemy and you could fall out with your crew over it.
You won't be able to tie your own shoes laces.
Wet gadgets may be salvageable if you don't leave them pool of water for four hours.
The new range of Injinji socks are great, but when your feet get wet nothing will save them.
Don't look at your feet during the race. Save it for the finishing line. Ignorance is bliss.
Putting a race number on during the hours of darkness, should be a gameshow challenge
Girls, you can actually pee standing up. Just little tilt and Bob's your uncle.
Peeing on your shoes is the least of your worries.
"True strength is holding it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart" (unknown)
At some point you will want to kick an ankle-snapping dog into the canal. Followed by its owner.
The homeless migrants sleeping under the bridge will look at you with pity.
It's swings and roundabouts.  What I lost during the night left me with me with enough for the finish.
Training is the key, but luck on the day helps.
Surprise visitors are up there with winning the lottery
Especially when they can take home the gigantic trophy, which you will never get on the plane :-)
The finish gantry is one of the most beautiful things you will ever see.
Your crew will never really know how much you appreciate everything.
It's a 100% team effort. Fact!
After battling the elements for hours/days, people will look at your end picture and say "you look tired"
Reading Facebook messages from people following the race will make you cry like a baby.
You're not the only person who will shed a tear.
The first beer is amaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaazing!
Nobody wants to see your feet. Even if you think the carnage is  impressive and should be shared.
You will scream like a bitch when you hit the shower.
Big pants will be the best post-race garment you can pack.
The socks/sandals combo is acceptable.
Adrenaline will keep you awake for DAYS!
Getting out of bed will take you a good 20 minutes.
Late night TV allows you the opportunity to brush up on your sign language skills.
Hollyoaks is torture and the Countdown Conunderum is impossible.
Footage of the Queen's Jubilee Celebrations is even worse.
People will stare and point at your attempts to walk. And then your sock/sandal combo.
There won't be an asterisk next to your name - *totally wimped out in the night/fell in the canal/bla bla
You may have a list of excuses, but you're the only one who cares.
After counting up the cost of replacing gadgets, don't leave a brand new Sat Nav in the hire car.
You will bore everyone to tears with your race tales, but you won't notice. Or care.
You can wipe out the next few days at work (Judy, skip passed this bit). See point above.
Active recovery is the way forward.  Just as well really, as domestic chores resume as normal.
Try to keep a straight face when the Apple store geek tells you "the water damage is quite extensive"
There will come a time when you need to stop milking the race....I'll let you know when that is :-)

Grand Union Canal Race 2012

GUCR website info....Garscube Harriers' Debbie Martin-Consani wins the 'triple crown' this Jubilee weekend - 1st Finisher; 1st Lady; and recipient of the Steve Philips 'Run for your Life' Trophy (awarded to the first first-time finisher) in a new ladies' record time of 28 hours 1 minute.

As the nation was enjoying the holiday weekend and hundred of thousands were heading to London to join in the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, 97 hopefuls lined up at the Gas Street Basin in Birmingham with the aim of running 145 miles on the Grand Union Canal to the big smoke within the 45 hour time limit. As you can imagine it's not for the faint-hearted and in reality 50 per cent of the field won't make it

Most people - even hardened ultra-runners - didn't share my enthusiasm for the adventure.  Even up until last year, I would have never put myself forward as a candidate.  The analytical and thought-provoking Andy Cole commented on my last post that this race may cure my towpath related fetish.    After running 24 hours  around a central reservation last September, this was going to be am absolute joy. 

The first time I'd stepped foot on the Grand Union Canal was on Friday evening, when Sonic and I wandered down to check out the location of the race start.   I wasn't fazed by the distance, but I had concerns about my lack of course knowledge and being alone in the dark - with a map!  Until I looked at the map on the back of the race sweatshirt, I didn't even know what towns we passed.  My three points of reference were Birmingham, Milton Keynes and London.

At 6am on Saturday, June 2 we were off.  As with usual races, it attracts a mix bag of runners and abilities.  The forecast was for full-on heavy rain, so most were donned in waterproofs, hats and gloves.  You could easily spot the Scottish burd in the midst in only shorts and vest.  There was also a full range of shoe options: Road, trail, Hoka and a few speedsters in lightweights.  Pre-race this had sparked a debate on Facebook.  I had opted for Hoka, with the hope that it was just the Southern softies who deemed towpath as "off road" running.

During the first section (to Catherine de Barnes) I ran with James:  A race first-timer, father-of-two and soon-to-be Olympic touch bearer.  We were later joined by Steve, a ultra veteran who had been participating since the early 90s.  I joked that he probably invented the sport.  He was a self-confessed old school style runner and dropped Don Ritchie into conversation a few times.  The miles zipped by and it wasn't long before Sonic was on hand for a top up on supplies.  He told me I was third female and I left the support point on my own. 

Race strategy: My three goals were to finish (bronze), sub:30 (silver) and break the ladies record (gold).  Overall - to get my gold - I needed to average between 11 and 11:30 m/m.  I know I love an even-paced race, but even with the best intentions, there was no way I was going to run that in the early sections.  For me - over such a distance - there was always going to be a natural deterioration in pace. I think that's only human. It's really the speed and extent to which this deterioration happens.   There were no specific tactics, just relax and keep chipping away.

The competition: My main competitor was Emily Gelder.  I ran with her - well, when she was lapping me! - at the 24 hour race in September.  She's amazingly talented and I had her down as a sure-fire win.  I wasn't there to challenge anyway, I was there to challenge myself.  I never chased and if anyone was chasing me, I wasn't aware.

Support points: There were 47 support points in the race - probably lots more if you know the route - but I'd arrange to meet Sonic every 10 miles.  For the first 70 miles of the race, each runners is given a support point colour according to race number - green for odd and yellow for even - to ease congestion in the early stages of the race.

I'd love to give you a mile-by-mile breakdown, which I'm sure you would love, love (!?) to read, but it's all very vague.  I could tell you who I passed - as in, I could describe what they looked like - but I'm not sure when it happened.  I know I was picking my way through - running approx 9:30m/m - and the second lady was just in front when I met Sonic at mile 20.

Pic by Ross Langton

At the Shrewley Tunnel, I stopped to check the map and Cliff went passed me.  Super, someone to follow.  We chatted for an hour or so. Well, he chatted - mostly. He could certainly give the Gibbering Midget a run for her money!! Mind you he did have a fairly impressive resume of ultra races under his belt. After we passed the second placed lady, I let Cliff push on, as the pace was at the upper end of easy to me.

I'll spare you the graphics, but my stomach was really playing up and it was a bit stop-start for the next 10 miles.  I phoned ahead and asked Sonic to mix up some Resolve for me meeting him at 30 (or it could have been 40) miles.  When I got there, he told me I'd moved up to 11th position.   Then it was 10th, as someone had retired as I was leaving.

I later caught up with a Belgian runner, Wouter.  He said he was struggling from the off and didn't look like he was having a great time.  He wasn't going to give in to a female passing either, so we played leap frog for an hour of so.  I wanted to ask him if he was wearing girls' shorts - they were verging on criminal - but he clearly wasn't in the mood for joking.  He wasn't in the mood for chatting either, which was a shame for him because I was :-)  It was great having him around for a short while, as he was clearly more familiar with a map than I was. Anyway, we parted company as the route veers away from the canal at 45 miles.

I think I was about 50 miles in when I came to a confusing junction. Sonic was going to meet me somewhere in the vicinity, so I thought it was best to check.  In hindsight this is a bit ridiculous, but when I shouted to a rather chunky man steering a canal boat: "Excuse me.  Is this the way to London?" I shouldn't have been surprised when his response was: "London!??!  F**k off".  Thankfully a kind lady popped her head out from another canal boat and told me I was going to right way and wished me luck in the race.   The absurdity of the situation did make me laugh though.

The course:  It's gorgeous.  I was really impressed with how scenic it is.  And it's a house-spotters paradise, which pleased me as you know I love good nosey at people's houses.  The terrain is really varied, but I would say 80 per cent is on trail or grass. 

The race rules: They're pretty simple.  Numbers must be visible at all times.  Runners must carry a phone, the maps provided and an emergency blanket during hours of darkness. Competitors must reach the checkpoints by the closing times and leave within 40 minutes of arriving.   No poles.  Buddies allowed after 65 miles and you must call race HQ if you retire.

Jubilee celebrations: What a great weekend to have the race.  I can always say I ran to London for the Queens Diamond Jubilee Celebrations.  There was a real party atmosphere along the canal, with lots of barges decorated in Union Jacks, people in fancy dress, family outings and waterside BBQs. 

Sonic was keeping me posted on where I was in the race.  To me, it was way too early to bother, but I know he loves the analytical/tactical side to racing.  He did keep a note of how things were panning out, but unfortunately he didn't tell me and I threw it out with all the rubbish after the race.  So...this is all from memory...Sonic informed me I was closing the gap on Emily Gelder and was in 8th position when I met him at 45 miles. 



Picture by JONATHAN LEE

I passed through the Heart of England checkpoint at 53 miles and then caught up with a walking Cliff, who was struggling with "man-flu".  He said he was pushing on, but calling it a day at Navigation Bridge (70 ish miles).  He wished me well and shouted that Emily was only minutes in front.

It wasn't long before I saw Emily with her crew.  She was standing off-course eating jelly babies and I stopped to see how she was.  She was having issues with a sciatic nerve but was going to keep going.  We exchanged niceties - god, ultrarunning is so pleasant - and I moved on to meet Sonic at our next meeting place.

Even I wanted to greet him with high-fives, as I'd moved up to 4th position (1st female).  I was still too early to get excited though, as Id' barely made a dent in the distance.  Prior to the 100K mark at Blisworth tunnel, I passed Darryl, who was hobbling with quad issues.  I joked about his Facebook comment about wearing Asics DS Racers - more pleasantries - and then I moved in third place.

Sonic has met me prior to the route deviating off the canal and was going to direct me the two miles along the road to where it rejoins.  Thanks to Drew for the video of this!

The kit: I'm glad I wore my HOKA. Only problem was when the towpath sloped, having the extra height played havoc with my ankles. I started in my shorts, but change into long Skins at 65 miles as I couldn't take any more nettles stings and overgrown flora.   I had the new range lightweight Injiniji socks on, which I has to order from the States.  I love these socks, but when your feet are wet nothing is going to save them.  Ignorance is bliss though, so there was to be no sock changing until the end of the race.

Picture by Ross Langton

My next main focus was to get to Navigation Bridge (70 miles), which is billed as the the half way point - but only if you're really rubbish at maths!  The organises has relaxed the support ban at this point and it wasn't long before Sonic appeared before me.  He's Sh*t hot on support - only because he's such a high maintenance runner himself! - so he ran towards me to take food/drink "orders".

Runner number two - Bruce Moore - was sitting down on the bridge.  I was in and out as fast as possible.  The marshall  hanging over the bridge - out of ear/ear shot of runner number two - mouthing "you're second.  You're second" made me chuckle. 

I kept chipping away at the miles with my next "treat" being calling my Mum at 8pm to say goodnight to my boy.  I think I was 80 miles down at that point.  It was strange having a conversation about only have 65 miles to go!  Speaking to Cairn gave me a wee boost, as told me about being on a bus, having ice-cream, seeing boats and indulging in his favourite pastime - throwing stones in water!  A top day out in the life and times of a three-year-old.

I couldn't believe how quickly the hours were flying passed.  Of course, I think that down to generally feeling quite good and absolutely loving the race.

It got dark shortly after 9:30pm.  Sonic had informed me that Cliff was having a second wind, had a support runner and was closing in on me.   He was also seriously concerned about my lack of coherence - mentioning that I was acting like I'd been drinking.  Hand on heart, I thought I was fine.  But then again, I always think "I'm fine" when I've been drinking too.

I don't make secrets of the fact that I'm not comfortable in the dark - ever.  Running in a strange place in a the dark, freaked me out somewhat.  The hours of darkness really are all a bit of a mish-mash for me.  I was a bit highly strung when I was traipsing through thick grass.  I was running alongside the canal, but I was never sure it was the right canal.  I lost a lot of time faffing about with maps and dealing with my emotions.  My legs were great, but my head was all over the place.  The combination of slowing pace and torrential race, meant by body temperature was dropping.

It was quite eerie being out there alone - especially when four burly men appeared with their 10-stone rottweiler.  To be honest, they were lovely and seemed genuinely concerned about my safety. I called Sonic to see if he could come out and meet me - with layers, waterproofs and gloves. 

When I saw two head torches behind me - and I knew it was Cliff and his support runner, Matt - I think it's the only time I'll ever be as happy to be caught in a race.  We chatted for a bit and Cliff was going to the 100 mile checkpoint to pick up another runner, Richard Galbraith.  Who I know from WHW training runs and races! Small world, isn't it.

Sonic appeared, threw some clothes on me and directed around the "tricky bit" to the next checkpoint.  I was so glad he was there, as my brain wouldn't have coped with the directions.  I also swapped Garmins at this point, as I was to run 100 miles with mine (before the battery ran out) and then take Sonic's Garmin.

I had to stop to sort out my race number and pick up some supplies and the boys were off.  I was alone again, frantically trying to keep sight of their head torches.

Now, this is where is all goes ridiculously wrong!  There are quite a few bridges to cross over the next few miles.  In daylight, the directions will be quite intuitive, but in darkness the paranoia sets in.

It was pouring.  And I mean torrential. Which means all I could  see from the headlight was sheets of rain.  The path was completely flooded, so I was using the concrete path alongside the barges to run on.  And then I tripped over a barge ring, whilst trying to look at the map.  Now what's the worse thing that can happen when you're running along a canal, when your emotions are running high?  Yes, you got it.  I fell in.  No just a paddle, I mean full body submersion!

It all happened so quickly.  Before I knew it I was wadding about in the water - in the dark - trying to find the water bottle that had popped out of my belt. 

Ironically, someone had mentioned earlier in the race about someone in this race who's falling in the water during a Thames race and in my head I was thinking: "what a t*t".  ha ha.  How much did that come back and sting me in the a*s?!

Of course when I went for my mid-race swim, my iPhone and iPod came with me.  Joy!  I was out of the water as quickly as I got in and in a blind panic tried to call Sonic with said wet phone.  Not surprisingly, it wasn't playing ball and all Sonic heard was gurgling water before it switched off. 

I started running again, trying to rationalise the situation.  Really I was just as wet as I was before I got in the water and as long as I kept moving I wouldn't freeze.   I made the decision there that I wasn't going to tell Sonic about my mishap.  I was just a silly accident, and I thought he would use that and my scattiness earlier to pull me from the race. 

A while later - it could have been minutes or an hour - I saw a head torch bopping towards me and then Sonic shrieking my name.  He was quite frantic when he got to me, as he had been trying to call me and thought I was "face down in a water or raped and face down in the water or something".  I may have made noises to suggest that was a ludicrous suggestion and made the excuse that my phone got soaked in the rain. 

I moved on and managed to get myself in a tizzy trying to find bridge 139.  I kept coming to a dead end at bridge 153.  If I had half a brain at that point, I would have realised that the sequence of bridges to follow were 154 and 155 and therefore the map I had was marked wrong.  It took a bit of to-ing and fro-ing before the penny drop.

Of course, everything comes in threes.  Oh yes, there's more!  After falling in the canal, I managed to fall splat out three times after that.  I really needed to keep my wits about me and I'd left my wits somewhere in the hours of daylight.  Plus, with wearing Hoka, if you don't pick up your feet properly, you trip. Thankfully I was falling onto "dry" land though. On the third tumble though, I managed to crack the screen of Sonic's Garmin.  So far, I was an iPhone, iPod and Garmin down.  If anything the expense has got to be the best incentive not to DNF.

I decided to change clothes, as the cold was wearing me down.  I kept my shoes and socks on, but striped off and piled on top layers.  In hindsight, the ensemble was an absolute travesty!  Black and pink Skins, grey Montane long sleeve, blue WHW jacket and a maroon Montane waterproof.  But just having dry clothes and gloves made a massive difference

Around 1am, Sonic came out to meet prior to our next arrange meeting point to tell me I was just about to overtook the Richard Quennell who had been leading the whole way. It wasn't until I saw the race pictures, that I realised I ran the 24 hour with him! Sorry, Richard, it was dark and we probably weren't at our chattiest. Richard had by that point moved into second, as Cliff was in the lead. He didn't look in a great way, reduced to shuffling, and I felt quite bad running passed him. 

An hour later (say, around 2am) Sonic informed me that Cliff had pulled out and I was in the lead.  After passing Cliff walking at 50+ miles, I was surprised he'd picked it back up.  He lives near mile 115 (ish) of the course and we heard he had stopped into his house to pick up dry clothes and when he got there his house had been broken.  Then we heard he'd locked himself out, so I don't know what the story was.

As it got nearer 4am and I was willing it to get light again, I saw Sonic's head torch and then heard a female say "hello".  I recognised the voice instantly as belonging to the Gorgeous Gillian, who along with Brother Sonic, had driven up from Bournemouth.  They had been watching the race unfold and decided to make the trip as a surprise.  I don't know who was more delighted to see them.  I think it was more of a relief to Sonic, as my Mr Bean's Holiday antics were going to tip him over.

Brother Sonic was going to run the next five miles with me, until it got light.  It was a huge weight off my shoulders when Sonic took the maps off me.  Brother Sonic even offered to carry my bottle belt for me, but that had already become part of my DNA and might unbalance me.

We moved on.  Although I was adopting a walk/jog strategy, I was still moving quite strongly and was still in high spirits.  And it was so nice to have someone to talk too!!  Other than the imaginary people I'd been seeing along the way :-)  The fisherman who turned out to be a tree and the little fat lady in the red coat who was in fact a bin for dog waste...

Nutrition/Hydration:  I would say my eating was better than usual, but Sonic might disagree.  On the Friday evening, we'd gone to Asda and stocked up on the usual rubbish.  Two of everything, just to be sure.  I drank mostly energy drink, water with Nunn and Nourishment milk drinks.  I was saving my beloved flat Coke for later in the race, but even then only took a couple of small bottles.  Eating wise, I had a few sandwiches, Mrs Tilly's fudge, sweets, banana...and I think that's about it. Surprisingly (well, for me) I had about 10 gels.  Usually I save these for emergencies, but I bought the water-based SIS GO gels and they went down fairly easy.

At the 120 checkpoint, there was only mere marathon to go. Sonic joined me for the next five miles.  I used the opportunity to confess about my midnight swim.  In the cold light of day, it was quite humorous. 

For the next 10+ miles, I played a bit fartlek.  I would walk for a bit and then run to the next bridge/corner/sticky-out-tree.  And this got me through to Bell's Bridge, where I turned off the Grand Union Canal and started heading towards Paddington.

I saw the sign for 13 miles to go and started working out times in my head.  The night antics and the walk/jog had slowed me down, but I was still feeling pretty good.  My legs were fine.  Tired, but not sore at all.  I had well over two hours to do a half marathon.   Fine on normal circumstances, but not so great after 25+ hours of running.

If I wanted to break the record, I'd need to up the anti.  It was like someone switched on the light and I just kept going.  I heard Adrian Stott say to me "If you want something bad enough, you'll find away" like he said to me in Llandudno.  Sonic and Gillian were waiting at the final support point at H'Brough Tavern.  Sonic has clearly just woken up and looked a bit startled and bleary eyed when I passed through.  Even the poor marshall had to dart out of his van to come and get my number.

I was on a mission!  I needed to get to Little Venice by 28:11 to break the ladies' record.  In my head I was flying.  In reality I was doing 10m/m.  I was practically tapping the screen of the Garmin, as I thought I must have really broke it in the tumble :-)

I didn't know what the final distance was.  Although the race info states 145 miles, this is the distance on water.  With 13 miles to go, I added it up to nearer 149.  I was now using the twopath signs as a count down. 

I never really knew how far behind the next runner was.  We were just using hear say.  I just presumed it was a male runner and hell hath no fury like a man being "chicked"!

As it was now normal morning time, the path was getting busier with dog walkers/cyclists/runners.  I  just hoped they would see the race number and not think I'd escaped from an institution.

As the countdown signs for Paddington were getting closer, I could see lines of barges.  Of course, I knew it had to be Little Venice, but I stopped a runner to ask just to be sure.  Even though there's nothing more irritating than being stopped mid-Zone to give directions!

As I was nearing the finishing, I couldn't see anyone and started to panic.  I just seemed to keep running.   Then I saw a small gathering in the distance and hoped it wasn't another hallucination :-)  I crossed the line in 28:01, breaking the women's record by 11 minutes.  I think I did the last 13 miles in 2:12/2:15, which could possibly be my biggest athletic achievement to date.

I was absolutely, utterly and completely over the moon. Even now, I can't quite believe it. I'm not dillusional enough not to accept that my outright win was down on choosing a good year to race, but for now the ladies' record is mine.

Dick Kearn, Race Director, seemed just as pleased as me. Dick is a bit of a, erm, character. When I told a previous race finisher that I was going to enter, his top tip was: "Don't ask Dick any silly questions. Actually, don't ask him any questions at all". He doesn't take fools gladly and he certainly doesn't mince his words. Let's just say, I now know he's actually a big softie! Don't worry, Dick, your secret's safe with me.

Thank you very, very much to Sonic for being top notch on support. As usual, you were outstanding!  Sorry, for the mild panic moments though.  Oh and for breaking your Garmin - although I'm still not buying you a 910xt.  Thanks to Paul and Gillian for the surprise additional to my crew of one.   Words cannot describe how much it meant to me. I will be eternally grateful to you all. 

When we got back home on Monday, My Mum and Sister had organised a little welcoming party.  They were so chuffed, they didn't even say anything when I demolished a tray of sandwiches before the lunch was even ready!

So one week later (it took me longer to write, than run) and all is well.  My legs are OK - apart from the bruises and scratches - but my feet are a riot. Being wet for the best part of a day and gravel I had accumulated means the hoofs are a bit of a car crash.

It was an amazing experience and I loved being part of the race.  I might be back, as Sonic said if I won he was going to do it next year.  And that wasn't an hallucination :-) 

Click here for the Scottish Athletics, the Ultra Running World report and the Scottish Running Guide report.   Not surprisingly that they all say the same thing though :-)

Click here for full results

1st: Debbie Martin-Consani 28:01
2nd: Iveagh Jameson 28:53
3rd: Pete Summers 30:03
4th: Steve Charleston 30:38

2nd female Sarah Thorne 34:56

Run, fun, sun...and what's to come.

When I first set up the countdown above above we were well into triple figures and it seemed like such a long way away.   I can hardly believe it's this weekend.  I think I'm ready for it.  Well, I'm as ready as I'm ever going to be.  I'm just looking forward to getting started now.  Before I drown in race admin...and spend anymore money.  With flights, hotels, car hire, airport parking, I'm sure we would have been cheaper with a week in the med.  And that's before I even bought a whole new outfit (obviously!) and the race supplies. 

I have a few minor worries.  One being navigation.  Or more so my lack of navigational skills.  I've poured over the maps and try to pin-point areas where I could wander, in the hope that Sonic can meet me and guide me through. And the lovely Drew Sheffield went out and videoed the whole 1.5 mile deviation at the 100K mark.

I'm not overly concerned about the distance.  That would be ridiculous, as the challenge is the reason why I signed up in the first place. To be honest, I'm not even sure what the distance is.  The race info states 145 miles, but that's only if I can learn to walk on water.  This Garmin info tallies it up to 149.4 miles. On the grand scale of things, four miles is a drop in the ocean.  Although, I guess on Sunday morning it will be more like a bullet in the kneecaps.

I'm confident that I've put in enough training.  But you never know if it's the right training until the day.  Or in this case, the next day.  The proof is in the pudding, after all. 

Since my last running post, I used the 10K race as the start of the hard week as the build up for the race. Lots of miles on tired legs.  Two weeks taper is not ideal for me, but in order to fit in my beloved Women's 10K it was just something I had to work with.

After doing back-to-back steady runs and speed sessions during the week, I did a 45 mile run with the GM.  An out and back on the Forth and Clyde canal.  The way out was straight into a head wind, so the return journey was much more enjoyable.  I did have a slight scare when my right knee just collapsed as we were nearing 40 miles.  It was a really weird sensation like my knee cap was cramping/spasming.  Bizarre.  But after a mile of walk/jog is was completely fine, although it did play on my mind a bit.



Then that evening we were off to Callander for the club training (er, eating and drinking with a bit running thrown in) weekend.  I managed to abstain the grape juice until I squeezed in another 20 miler the next morning - rounding up another 100+ mile week.  It such an amazing place to run.  Just a simply out and back from Callander to Aberfoyle, on a glorious fresh morning.

Then came the heat wave. 

I love the Scottish summer.  It's my favourite day of the year :-) 

Except this year, we were blessed with more than a whole week.  Although I may have whined a bit after my run and my face looked like a Ribena berry, it was good acclimatising for this weekend's race.  I had a mild fear about running in temperatures I hadn't had a chance to train in.  So last week involved plodding out lots of below par miles. 

On Sunday, we were through in our fair Capital city as Sonic and my Brother were running the Edinburgh Marathon.  Apparently, Sonic was going to "jog round in under three hours".  If you're like me and a sub:three is only a pipe dream, then you might think this sounds a bit w*nky.  Personally, I knew it was never going to happen.   Boys + race + competitive streak does not equal "jogging round".  And guess what, when he went flying past me at mile 10 I knew I was right.

He went on to finish in 22nd place in a super swift PB time of 2:44.   It was good day in the office for the other half of the Bromance, as the Crazy German finish in 2:42! 

My Brother (right) and his friend Alistair finished in 4:50 in not only their first marathon, but their first ever race - raising £2000 for the Children's Hospice Association of Scotland.  And they're still speaking to me, which is a bonus.  I was really impressed they were still running - and smiling - on the finishing straight.

Well done to everyone who ran to complete or PB.  It was a lovely day for the crowds, but not so great for running.    Although I'm sure the great medal made it all worth while.

Until you see the reverse...Oops! :-)

Anyway, I'm off to start on the packing.  I've got the outfit sorted, but I'm torn on the shoes.  I think I'll go for Hoka, but might be swayed to Brooks Adrenaline.  Then again, Sports Direct sent me a lovely new pair of Nike LunarSwift running shoes to try out. Some runners are chatting about trail shoes, so maybe my inov 8 Roclite. And one is contemplating racers, but even I draw the line at that.  Oh dear...what's a girl to do? Eh, pack them all of course.  What's a heavy suitcase to the athlete supreme who can jog out a 2:44 marathon ;-)

Cairn using his time constructively



In the good books

Although I've probably read most of the top-rated running books, I think it's good to look outside the sport for tips on ways to develop and improve.  Here are four of my latest finds from three (wildly different) triathletes and one table tennis player. Yes, really, a table tennis player.

I would highly recommend the following - in no particular order - for different reasons:  Chris McCormack for determination and self belief, Chrissie Wellington  for unleashing her amazing talent, Bounce for proof that hard work wins hands-down every time and Dick Hoyt for inspiration, love and family.

I'm Here to Win by Chris "Macca" McCormack.  It's a big of a stretch to say I read this, as I actually listened to the audio version.  This is a fantastic read - eh, listen - as Macca's no bullsh*t approach to racing and his and the never-say-die dedication puts a little fire in your belly.  He beat the odds to win the Ford Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii for - twice! Macca's journey to athletic greatness is more than just one of physical perseverance.   He could have made a career out of rubbing people up the wrong way with his cockiness, but there's no shame in wanting to win.  He had dedicated his life to it after all. I flitted over his Ironman training plans suggestions, but his advice on nutrition, hydration and discipline are valuable to anyone participating in an endurance sport - at any level.

Bounce: The Myth of Talent and the Power of Practice by Matthew Syed.  Thanks to the lovely Tori (who I spent the first 10 miles of the G2E race chatting with) for this recommendation.   Bounce, written by a Commonwealth tennis table champion and Olympian, is a very interesting and thought-provoking read.  It basically argues that natural talent is of low importance, and that success can only be achieve though "purposeful practice" - actually 10,000 hours (approximately 10 years) of purposeful practice. The end result of this is practice is often mistaken for natural talent, when in fact the trait most high achievers have in common is a willingness to work harder than their peers and a belief that this hard work will drive greater improvement and success - not a belief in their fixed superiority.   This might sound dramatic, but this book has kind of lifted my self-imposed glass ceiling.  I'm the first to admit that I wasn't blessed with any natural flare or gift, but I work bloody hard.

"A cutting edge dissection – and ultimate destruction – of the myth of innate talent in the pursuit of excellence.  Read this book now – before it’s too late." Mark Thomas - Professor of Evolutionary Genetics at University College London.

A Life Without Limits by Chrissie Wellington.  This is one of the very few books that I have pre-ordered on Amazon, and I started reading it as soon as it dropped though my letterbox.  In a nut shell, this about a girl-next-door from Norfolk who became the world champion in the fiercest of all sporting events.  In 2007, Chrissie shocked the triathlon world by winning the World Championship in Hawaii - as a rookie and completely unknown to the press.  This is a great read, even if you're not even into sports. It's generally just a good story of a journey that takes you around the world from her childhood in England, to to the mountains of Nepal, to the oceans of New Zealand, and the trails of Argentina.  Battling with anorexia, to training with a controversial coach and using sports as an opportunity to help improve people's lives - it's a must read.

If you ever need a kick up the ass, then Devoted by Dick Hoyt is the one for you.  This was another pre-ordered book, which I bought on a whim on Amazon Recommends.  It's the story of Team Hoyt and is nothing short of amazing.  I deft anyone to watch this video and not shed a tear. Not from sadness.  On the contrary, you will be moved by the pure joy. 

Rick, the eldest son of  Dick and Judy Hoyt, was born in 1962. As a result of oxygen deprivation to Rick's brain during his birth, Rick was diagnosed as a quadriplegic with cerebral palsy and his parents were advised to institutionalise him and "forget about him". But Rick's parents refused. Determined to give their son every opportunity that normal children had, they made sure to include Rick in everything they did, especially with their other two sons.  Although Rick couldn't walk or talk, he was quite astute and they fought to integrate Rick into the public school system, pushing administrators to see beyond Rick's physical limitations.

To help Rick communicate, in 1972, they worked with a group of engineers at Turfs University to built an interactive computer.  Rick could select letters by tapping his head against a piece attached to his wheelchair. In 1975, at the age of 13, Rick was finally admitted into public school. After high school, Rick attended Boston University and after nine years he graduated with a degree in Special Education in 1993.

In the spring of 1977, Rick told his father that he wanted to participate in a 5-mile benefit run for a Lacrosse player who had been paralysed in an accident. Far from being a long-distance runner, Dick agreed to push Rick in his wheelchair and they finished all 5 miles, coming in next to last. That night, Rick told his father: "Dad, when I'm running, it feels like I'm not handicapped."

This was just the beginning, as they have since competed in over 1,000 events  including 70+ marathons - (Their marathon PB is 2:40:47!), duathlons and triathlons (six of them being Ironman competitions). Also adding to their list of achievements, Dick and Rick biked and ran across the U.S. in 1992, completing a full 3,735 miles in 45 days.

In a triathlon, Dick will pull Rick in a boat with a bungee cord attached to a vest around his waist and to the front of the boat for the swimming stage. For the biking stage, Rick will ride a special two-seater bicycle, and then Dick will push Rick in his custom made running chair.
Affectionately known worldwide as Team Hoyt, they are as devoted as ever, continuing to inspire millions and embodying their trademark motto of Yes, you can.

10 out of 10

Yesterday I toed the line for my annual 10K.  Yep, the last 10K I did was the same event last year.  And the year before that. And that. It's safe to say it's not my preferred distance.  But the Ignis Asset Management Women's 10K is by far my favourite race.  I love it.  Makes me proud to be a Weejie :-) And a burd.

 I know it would be easier doing a cut 'n' paste of the same race report each year, but I can't speak highly enough of this race.  It's magical.  And for once, Glasgow ladies are drinking in a different kind of spirit :-)  It's the catalyst for so many Scottish club runners, but attracts hoards of first-timers and charity runners.  Participants come in all ages and (quite literally) shapes and sizes.  Sonic hit the nail on the head when we arrived with "You know on paper, 10,000 women in lycra should be a dream come true.  It's just a shame it's in Glasgow"

This year was my 10th in a row. Considering my big race is just over two weeks away, the timing threw a big spanner in the training schedule, but I wouldn't miss it for the world. I'd crawl round on my hands and knees if I had to.

For once, I actually prepared for this and made the race a key event for 2012. Although I had to realistic about the respect I could dedicate to the distance, as there were quite a few 100+ mile week in the build-up. Although thanks to MJ the Messiah's lunchtime training sessions, I was confident a PB was on the cards.   Even the race conditions of  heavy rain and crazy-forced winds, didn't dampen my spirits.  There was a whole lot of fire in my belly.



The Garscube B team.  Jill, the GM, me and Maz


 

I managed to scrape in a PB - by 2.5 minutes! - to finish in 43.27 (ave 6.57m/m).   Overall position was 78th out of 8000+.  I not only made the first page of the Evening Times' results pullout, but I made the first column.  Woohoo.  OK, my name my be squeezed on the very last line, but it's still the same column as Freya Murray...who was first in a mere 10 minutes faster. 

Well done to everyone.  See you there next year. Same time, same place.  Although Sonic might send me some links for women-only races in Sweden, Holland, Brazil... :-)

Podding whilst plodding

Running podcasts have come a long way since I first dabbled with the concept a few years ago. Initially I found them quite annoying, frustrating and even a little bit dull. I guess there's a lot more choice now - maybe it's the new blogging - and little more sophiscated than someone gasping down your ears and dishing out training advice.

I've always liked to listen to something when I out for a long run or recovery jog - usually music or the radio. I've even listened to a few books. Now I'm hooked on two podcasts series.


Firstly, the more general Talk Ultra, which is presented by Ian Corless and Ian Sharman and available free from iTunes every fortnight

It's really high-kicking stuff. The presenters themselves have a wicked collection of ultra-running accolades - the Sharman of the Ians ran 12:44 for a 100-miler. Which is rediculous! Coupled with conversations with the highest calibre of ultra-runners, it's pretty serious. If anything - and this is not a criticism - some of them are just too good to be entertaining. Factual and inspiring, yes, but sometime it's a little hard to relate to some sh*t-hot American talking about wheatgerm shots, organic puffs and mountains in their back garden when I chewing on Tesco Value Midget Gems (which incidentally, rock!) and dodging the junkies in Partick.

It is truly fantastic that they have - just for fun - pulled together amazing content and advice from the legends and elites, which you can enjoy at your leisure for free. Although so far I've found a few new additions to my bucket list.

Then on the same theme, but with slightly different feel, there's JK's West Highland Way Race Podcasts.  I like the light-hearted and homely contrast.  I'm definitely more of a spit 'n' sawdust pub, rather than a plush wine bar kinda gal. And when I buy newspapers at the weekend I buy the Daily Mail (her Majesty's finest - obviously!) and a rag for some dumming down.   Now, I'm not suggesting that JK's Podcasts are the audio equivalent to a red-top journalism.  On the contrary.  But I do think they'd get the people's choice award.  Mike Raffen summed it up the tone when asked in his interview about a running mantra he confessed to writing "Don't be a dick" on his hand. Can you imagine the sports' global superstars toeing a start line with that little inked reminder :-)  According to google translate, Kilian's mantra would be "No seas un pene"

It's simply runners of all abilities talking about their love (and fear!) of running and racing – regardless of how fast/slow/long they run.  It's not necessarily just for runners either.  It's for anyone who’s interested or involved in ultra-running – even from the sidelines.   And not just West Highland Way running either. OK, there’s a bias (the clue's in the name), but that’s becoming more slight as we move through the episodes. You don't even need to live anywhere near the West Highland Way or have any inclination to ever step foot on it.

There's lots of little gems of downright hilarity, along with lots of analytical wisdom and insights from those who have been there, done that and got the crystal goblet.  Granted, my opinion might be a little biased as I know most (actually, I think, all) of the runners/supporters/organisers featured.  Some bits are laugh-out-loud hilarious.  Often not the best when listening while running in public places.

Whether you need a big dollop of Fiona/Pauline spirit and enthusiasm, want to hear Sonic and the Crazy German splashing about in puddles, the domestic disturbance that is Lee and Dave (Lee is the domestic and Dave is disturbed) or advice from stalwart Duncan Watston on how to run 95 miles on a digestive biscuit and water from steams. Things are a bit more sophisticated since he set the ball in motion back in 1985, but to hear him utter "so, I gave up whisky" is worth it for the comedy value.

There are interviews with first-timers, multiple goblet holders, nutritional and medical advice, dealing with DOMS and injury, tips on gear and training, breaking through the pain barrier, coming out the other side, the magic of the course, back-up pointers and blogpost of the week.

From ultra-running's finest to ultra-running's funniest, both podcasts get a thumbs up from me.  Just be careful where you listen to them.  I was on a country road mindlessly absorbing the inspirational chat between Dr Andrew Murray and Donnie Campbell when I pracitcally dived into a hedge.  Forgetting of course the interview was conducted in a moving vehicle - with passing traffic - and I wasn't actually in danger of being moved off the road.

The West Highland Way Race podcast MP3 versions are available here or you can download them from iTunes.

Episode 15 features yours truly. Although don't expect too much.

Double (tummy!) touble

At the peak of training, prior to taper, I like to get in a couple of days of intense training. Well, when I say intense, I mean jogging and eating sugary treats for a long time. But the kind of training that makes you welcome taper with open arms - and battered feet.

Usually my race plans coincide with the GM's and we've had some cracking back-to-back runs. This year, we seem to be going our separate (race) ways. We're on a break and seeing other people :-) Or not as the case may be, as I was on my tod for my double, as The GM prepared her race face for Saturday's Highland Fling.

Last week, I took Thursday and Friday off work. The plan for day one was to get the first train to Edinburgh and run back to Glasgow. 55 miles + plus a mile or so at either end. I'll spare you the graphics, but I'd had stomach problems for a few days. Great for racing weight, but not so great for epic training. I really shouldn't have done it, but I never have the "put off 'til tomorrow" option.

From the off, I was gradually draining what little reserves I had and after 34 miles I was ready for chucking in the towel. Of course I made this decision after I'd passed numerous train stations and was now stuck in no-mans-land. So I back-tracked for three miles to Falkirk train station. 37 miles in the bank, but still deflated and gutted. Although I allow a little leeway in training plans, I really beat myself if I feel I've somehow "quit". After holding down a sandwich on the train (and I little bit of chastising myself), I decided I was going run the five miles home from Glasgow city centre. Taking my daily total to 42. Why? Because I'm just bloody stupid that way.

Then there was Friday's planned 25-mile run. A roller coaster of nausea, bonking, dizziness and brief moments of feeling pretty damn good - considering. Miles 1-15 were uneventful, 15-20 were an absolute disgrace and then 20-25 were great. Go figure. It just shows you can push your body through tough times. The two days left me with a bit of a confidence crisis, but in hindsight running on empty, feeling nauseous, burst and vacant was probably the best possible training for the GUCR. I am forever harping on about simulating race conditions after all. On a positive note, I was running so conservatively (that's upbeat for slow) that my legs didn't feel any effects.

On Saturday, Sonic and I were on Crazy German duty at the Highland Fling. Actually Sonic was on back-up and Cairn and I just tagged along for the social.

His German-style race tantrums have been well-publicised by his long-suffering wife and back-up crew. Mrs Crazy German has even went to the extreme to avoid such tantrums by signing up to ultra-races herself. Although her participation in the this year's WHWR back-fired when the Crazy German decided to withdraw his application.

I was thoroughly disappointed that he was on his best behaviour. I even gave him a free card to have as many hissy fits as he wanted. After all, what goes on the course, stays on the course. But nada. He was courteous and polite, for the whole 2.7 seconds he was at each checkpoint. Just look at the picture. The cheer comes so naturally...

What an awesome race it was to be. Click here for full results. Huge congratulations to everyone involved, especially John Duncan the new race director.

The Crazy German finished 7th with a cracking PB (and no dramas!) in 8:02. The GM ran an absolute blinder and was third female in a razor sharp time of 8:38. Mrs JK ran her first ultra and was third FV50 - AND wrote her first blog post. Mrs Crazy German ran a superb race in preparation for a great WHWR.