My first race for 2016 done and dusted, Hares and Hounds 52km Trail. As always it was great to be on the trail amongst some awesome people whether it be runners, volunteers or supporters. I came in 7th Female, 27th overall out of 48 starters. Far from disappointed with just on post 6weeks from the 100mile Alpine. I did set my expectations a bit high, and learnt from it. I felt strong and excited leading up to the event. Being back into training even under the tough weather conditions I felt prepared.

Leaving Rockhampton Saturday morning for my first long drive for the year. Which became extra long thanks to Mr TomTom not wanting to talk to me and giving me a detour of an extra hour to Woodford. Thankfully I was greeted by a smiley Trisha, Cameron and Liam Smith. Who also provided me with 4star accommodation at the start line.

Sunday morning 2am we were awoken by other runners arriving ready for the 3am start. The weather conditions were perfect. Prepared with light and hydration pack, I was ready to head into the dark for the first couple of hours. The field of runners were fresh on their legs and many took off strong and fast. I settled into my pace as the runners spread out quickly into the darkness. The course had changed from the previous year but I had intended to still finish within the same time. With an out and back course, thinking this would make it easier. That was until I realized the challenges I came up against. The course was tougher under foot, many sections uneven with lots of hidden pot holes along with some muddy sections. Oh and why not put some sand all amongst that as well for a bit of challenge in the dark.With a slight detour (again..) of an extra ‘K’ from making the ultimate error of judgement that every trail runner does at least once. By following the leader instead of focusing on the trail markings. Daybreak was a welcoming site. I still made the turnaround checkpoint in good time and was on target with my intending finishing time.

That was until the worse runners scenario occurred. Just into the 30+ k’s and BAMM my legs went from floating to lead. Lactic acid build up had hit the muscles fast and hard. I now only had one alternative slow the pace and in some cases walk it out. This was a first for me, believing I was invincible and could run through anything. I had to quickly review my situation. Ok, I am not injured, listen to my body, this is not my race. Sit back ride out the remainder of the kilometers as my body wants. With Tarawera 100k Ultra-Trail World Tour Race in New Zealand only 4 weeks out this was a training event for me. As I made my way back to the finish dropping many positions in the last 10 km’s, I did what any other runner on the trail would do. Encourage the other runners to stay strong and bring it home. This is what is so unique about trail running. The people who do them. Many quickly slowing to see if I was ok. I assured them I was just riding it out slowly and all was good. This was indeed the most crucial decision I had to make. I crossed the finishing line in 5hr:36min with heavy legs but with a smile and satisfied I had done the best I could have done on the day and enjoyed the journey. A very valuable lesson was learned. Anything can happen on the day but it is the bigger picture one needs to look at from the outcome. It was an amazing day, awesome challenge and I would not want to change it. That is what trail running is all about, enjoying the unpredictable and the awesome scenery the surrounds you.

Love My Running 🙂

Many Thanks to Trisha Smith for the photos. You always amaze me when you return to the finishing line with a smile along with photo evidence that you had ran the trail.