1st-3rd September 2017 – Race Report

Well better late than never. This event was the dream goal, but dreams, when turned into reality sometimes becomes something of a different reflection on life. My story may be heartbreaking but I know deep down I did achieve my dream of running this ultimate event.

No words could describe this event and the surreal feeling of crossing the finishing line.

It was a dream come true yet the lead up into this event was something I had not or ever could have been prepared for. For all that are thinking how and why what drove me to this challenge was a story on its own.  In 2015 I decided to attempt my first 100 miler and for anyone who know me well I always choose something challenging. So the Alpine Challenge in the Victorian Alps (an unmarked course) was chosen. Being close to my home state and always keen to see Mt Bogong from the top, the views sounded adventurous. Along with some encouragement from a fellow trail runner planning to do the same event. (I am truly Thank you Stuart Wright) In our training during ridiculous hours he mentioned the UTMB (the ultimate world trail event). Me being always curious did the research and thought how crazy is that and my adrenaline started pumping. I rang my father who soon did the Mr Google search and said ” Are you crazy, we laughed..but what a challenge and how awesome would that be”. So there it sat in the back of my mind whilst in training in up to the event. During the Alpine Challenge I finished with the support by a runner who had just completed the UTMB. He (Matt Piper) had spoken of the excitement and venturous experience he had. By the time we had crossed the finishing line he told me if I could survive this race I could do the UTMB. So the challenge was set.

My challenge did come with sacrifices. Finding qualifying races and long intensive training programs all demanding on your personal everyday living both emotional and financial. I could not have achieve this goal without a very supportive husband and financial suffice. In stating that we did see the world and met some amazing people along my journey. I remember being presented with my trail passport certificate by the UTMB race director Kathy at New Zealand Terrawerra, 106km, I told her “I will be at the UTMB start line one day, she responded in her very little English…I believe you will”.

When I received the email that I had been accepted into the event I had just moved from my country town Rockhampton after 23years to the suburbs of Brisbane. I had just started employment back into my comfort zone with a company I was overwhelmed to become part of.  It did come with some travel time and long hours but did not stop my passion for running the trails several times a week. So my dream suddenly become true in parts of my life.  But I soon found work, my husband working away during the week and new work demands doubting my abilities and possibilities of achieving such a dream. My father was in his last stages of fighting cancer and family demands was also mentally challenging. My training soon become my survival to life in itself, now the realization that my father was not going to be here when I stood at that start line was heartbreaking.  I was being attack by the worse, the mental challenge. My father fought for our country and paid the ultimate suffice from being a Vietnam Vet. He suddenly become fallen to the evil disease, prostate cancer which he fought for 5 years. I knew my determination came from him. In July only a few weeks before I stood at the UTMB start line my father passed. My hurt was indescribable, my heart ached and my training become hard and bought tears. I felt broken, lost and now lost my biggest fan. I was falling apart yet my ultimate dream was at the doorstep. Then suddenly to just push the last button, my bank account was hacked. Suddenly I was broke, all my savings stolen. No amount of empathy and security from my bank through insurance could comfort me. No guarantee of ever seeing the full return of these funds was unforeseeable. I was now mourning for the loss of my father and for my hard earned saving for the adventure. I will never deny my training sessions often ended in tears and I started to doubt my ability. I never thought my heart could ache and hurt so much. Deep down I knew I had to achieve my ultimate goal knowing my father was still going to with me all the way.

Fate was not going to make it that hard. After 12 months of moving to my new township I had grown some amazing friendships. My local running club Springfield Runners Group and Brisbane Trail Runners soon become my support. Some amazing people come to assist in raising funds along with some amazing support getting me to the UTMB start line. I soon realized I may have lost my biggest fan and father but had been given a huge family right at my front door. Their support was amazing and to be honest they kept me strong throughout the tough times of the event and their ongoing supporting words from across the world throughout the event kept me positive and determined to cross the finishing under such extreme conditions. I crossed the finishing line on Australia’s Fathers Day, I shed tears that day. I was tired, fatigued, my body ached but at no time did I not believe I could not finish. At times I believed he was pushing me, giving me the mentally strength I needed to get there. Here I was at my dream goal in tears fighting climbs in sleet, snow and blistery winds but when the sun did shine so did I knowing that finishing line I will cross.

During the race I watch participants withdraw in tears either due to injury or under the decision of the race organizers. I soon become determined not to become one of them. The language barrier was a big hurdle and with changes in the course due to weather conditions made it difficult to know what was happening throughout the event. At times I felt alone even though I was gridlocked on climbs and descents in the first 24 hours all attempting to keep within cut off times, knowing the next climb was going to be just as tough and weather conditions were playing a bit factor. It was a game with Mother nature playing the cards. On the second night I left the check point tent entering yet another night of rain and coldness on the tops. I had quickly re-layered with additional night warmth knowing fatigue was going to quickly cause my core body temperature to drop. I left with a Canadian named Tara suffering with shin splints (later finding out she actually had a fracture). I was comforted by finally hearing the English language and that we were both about to go through our second night with the night demons.  We fought through the night together talking about anything to keep us awake and focused. Tara become an inspiration talking about her career and her travels as an ultra runner. She is an amazing woman to be able to cross the finishing line with a fracture. We had visualized crossing the line together but parted prior to the final checkpoint due to Tara having stomach issues and concerns with the cut off times. I left her with tears and the anxiety waiting for her to cross the finishing line before cut off was emotional. Once I heard her name called I could not wait to see her. We were both in pain but hers was intense yet her smile of achievement was amazing. Tara I am truly grateful to have spent the time we did on the trail. We both fought demons that night and succeeded. Thank you for the photos of the snow, where you were able to take off your gloves and I was still hallucinating and more thinking of warm soup and the warmth of Italy at the bottom of the Swiss Alps. :-).

I drank soup so salty that you would usually return to the chef or pour down the drain. Bread so dry that seemed amazing at the time. So much swizz chocolate ( so please hold yourself back from sending me chocolate as a gift), cheeses and crackers and coffee shots become part of my checkpoint necessary survival. Crossing the finishing line that day was so emotional no words could describe it. I cried with happiness. My body hurt, I was tired beyond imagination. But that was not what the tears were for, the tears were for the Facebook message to my father saying “I Did It” I just crossed the most amazing finishing line. Deep down I know he was with me the entire way. I miss you so much Dad beyond what I ever thought it to be. I believe every finishing line will hurt but will be more satisfying knowing you will still be with me and no longer will you be in pain.

I never dreamed of going into a summer race fighting Sleet, Snow and blistery winds off the Swiss Alps. Running above the clouds, watching the ground turn white from snow and feeling the sun hit your skin as it rises in the morning on the summits. If that is not a beautiful dream enough nothing will be. Recovery has been longer than ever anticipated with a bout of pneumonia and chronic fatigue but my passion for the trails is still under my skin. I have been asked many times since my return, “So what is next?”…to be honest I have no idea. I reach my ultimate goal  at 45 years of age. I will still be seen on the trails but now it is time to payback my gift to others. Giving is so much more satisfying than receiving. As all runners know racing at qualifying levels comes at a cost at all levels. At some time you know when its your time to step back and just give.

I still have so many words to describe this amazing event. That will be a story on it’s own.

I have so much writing of my journey that will be a challenge in its self. I have met so many amazing, inspiring people who need their stories told and how they have inspired me to follow my dreams. I believe my Kathryn’s Running Tales have just began.

#Love my Running 🙂

 

    I believe I have procrastinated enough over how to describe my latest challenge. The Great North Walk 100 miles. Which actually was 175.3km, but who was counting. Well I know I was in the final 25.4km leg when the characteristic of the trail had described the final 10km’s as “HARD” they meant it.

I went into this event knowing all to well of the stories from runners being defeated by the rugged terrain and the demanding ascents and descents. Along with the added creek crossings, slippery rocks and roots and a hard to follow trail. As an Ultra endurance runner what more could I ask for in a challenge?

Leading into the event I had faced many challenges within myself. Training solo and at times feeling as I was losing my mojo. It took a couple of quick trips down south to run a 55km Glasshouse trail event “Flinders Tour”, coming in 5^th Female and the Rainbow Beach Marathon coming in 2^rd Female to get myself refocused and bring back my love for the trail along with my confidence. Training Solo for many hours each day for a miler does test your commitment. But I have had this one on my radar for a while and I just knew this was my window of opportunity to experience this tough course. Knowing all to well the history behind it.

It was a first that I was totally prepared for an event. Knowing I was stepping into the unknown I was not able to be anything but ready for the unexpected. I had read the map and detailed directions and had many concerns, which I was hoping to resolve prior to the start line. Even with the comfort from previous years runners reassuring me that if I stick to the directions the trail is tough but easy to follow, I still had doubts of some sections.

So at the start line I stood in the drizzling raining knowing all too well that there was no time for doubt now and bring on the challenge. The finishing line is only 100 miles plus some away, I have 36 hours to get there. A small amount of time out of my life to have an amazing journey.

6am and 150 runners start their journey. Many re attempting a finish or going from a 100km finish to attempting the big Miler. The first leg was 29kms of a variety of sealed and trail road along with the first tough climb with some amazing views, then descending into the Old Watagan Forestry known as “the jungle”, a true description of its beauty. Wet slippery and tough all in the first Leg of the race.

Reaching Checkpoint 1(Old Watagan Forestry HQ) my adrenaline was pumping and excited at what was ahead. The field of runners where spreading quickly and on leaving Checkpoint 1 it was not long before I found myself solo and now having to rely on my map descriptions and keeping a close eye out for markings.

The second leg I remained focused for much of the way until hitting the open gravel road leading into Checkpoint 2(Congewai Public School). I was feeling good but I knew the third leg was going to test me out. It was not only going to be tough with ascents and descents but also technical. Obtaining my walking poles at CP2 was a good call. Already I was hearing of runners being defeated by the rugged terrain and many knew all too well what laid ahead going into the next Checkpoint. At times I felt like I was on my home training ground running up the back of our Mount Archer or running through the Glasshouse mountains. Other times I felt like I was reliving the beauty of New Zealand’s Tarawera Ultra and whilst crossing farmland filled with cattle I was reminded of my adventures on the Heysen 105 trail.

So much diversity all in one day already, but what I was about to step into was my worse nightmare.

Night was falling quickly and I knew I needed to cover ground fast knowing I will be stepping into darkness and had concerns going into the 3^rd checkpoint. My fears quickly turned into reality as darkness fell and with it came silence. I had used running shoe marks in the ground as a comfort knowing I was heading in the right direction. This comfort was no longer there and now I had to visualize what I was told the previous night. I soon found myself on the wrong trail. Knowing where I was, was good but were to go back to get on the correct track was getting me emotional stressed and I had no alternative other than to back track and re evaluate my position. I soon surrendered and had no alternative other than to wait at the turn I knew the lead runners were going to be coming back out from Checkpoint 3 and get directions. It seemed like forever till I saw headlights and the comfort of voices. They quickly got me back on track and I soon found how I easily missed the trail. I had also had a fall in the dark a slid down the embankment, having to claw my way back on the trail during my disorientation. I had also lost my sunglasses which although are materialistic I shed some tears, thinking how was I going to not let this race defeat me. I had taken wrong turns on even marked trails before but never could call myself disorientated or lost that could bring such fear out of me. I entered Checkpoint 3(Basin Campsite) got checked in and dove into my husbands arms for security and reassurance. I knew I had to tag onto another runner to get myself to the next checkpoint. Not because of the not knowing where I was going but for the reassurance of having the company. The long day of much of it running solo was playing games with my capabilities after going off track. I quickly tagged a 100km runner eager for some company to his finishing line being my ½ way mark. My anxiety quickly settled once back out on the trail with the 100km runners grouping up being their last leg. It was great running with some company. I was looking forward to the next checkpoint. It was the finishing line for the 100km runners and that meant excitement and lots of smiles. Plus food, as my body was telling me it was now time for dinner.

On approaching Yarramalong Public School, Checkpoint 4, husband Phil was there ready to rug me up for the cool night ahead and provided me with some warm soup and reassurance. And guess what was waiting there also for me? My lost sunglasses handed in by a runner. I felt fate was on my side again.

We both knew I was concerned with the next leg. The directions seemed vague and being in the darkness I was not keen to head out alone. So off we went seeking a pacer waiting for their runner on a mercy mission. One was found but the runner was another 30+ minutes out, then I had to wait for the runner to recovery and ready to leave. I had plenty of time up my sleeve and decided to wait it out rather than risk the unknown. With 1 ½ hours at Checkpoint 4 I am sure the volunteers were starting to wonder if I was ever intending to continue. Hearing that 27 runners had already pulled out at Checkpoint 2 along with more planning to end their Miler at the 100km finishing. The Miler had defeated them. I was starting to get more determined to finish this Miler. Though I had some more unexpected hurdles unknown to me at this time that I was about to be confronted with. As if continuous ascents and descents weren’t challenging enough.

Leaving Checkpoint 4 was exciting I had fresh legs, fueled and armed for the darkness. All was going well but with fatigue setting in and having some difficult climbs that were technical being in the dark we slowed quickly. The night air was getting colder and the night demons were closing in. It seemed like the rocks were never ending to climb up or down and unforgiving. I was thankful for the walking poles aiding for additional support. When we entered out onto the fire trail it was like hitting an ice wall, the mist in the air biting any bare skin that was not covered. We had slowed too much that our core body temps had dropped and I knew we were in trouble. The night demons had caught us as well. I had dozed off into space a couple of times and was getting wobbly on the feet. I knew I had to leave the comfort of the pacer and runner and keep moving. I had reached a car of a crew going in to collect a runner. I had decided that I was in no state to go back into the forest for the next climb. Between the cold and night demons I could not even read my map directions. As a tear rolled down my eye thinking how could I let it finally defeat me? I also felt for the other runner I had left behind knowing all too well of his fate. Was this to be my first DNF…Really… I made it this far……

But fate was not going to allow this to happen. I heard voices of runners, at first I thought I was hallucinating. They stopped and knew I was in a bad way. I was unable to speak clearly but they knew I needed to get moving and put another layer over me to get me warm. Once moving my core body temp warmed and my head started to clear. Before going back into the forest they fueled me with coke and it was not long before I was back to the land of living and I had left the night demons back on the fire trail. To this day I owe my finishing to a runner called Tez and his pacer Cress. They knew I was in my darkest hour and what to do as any trail runner does. They quickly accepted me as baggage till I could hold myself together. Unfortunately for Tez I enjoyed his company so much I tagged him all the way to the finishing line. We watched the sunrise going into Checkpoint 5(Somersby Public School) for breakfast and got to know each other through to checkpoint 6 (Mooney Mooney Creek)covering ground quickly.

Checkpoint 6 was the best. I finally got my Vegemite sandwich I had been hanging out for and we were headed to that finishing line. The scenery was stunning down in the rain forest pockets of the valley. Waterfalls and streams were refreshing. But then followed steep climbs leading to open Sandstone Plateaus. The views were just magnificent and the site of water meant the finishing line was close.

Tez and I had got to know each other well over many hours. I am sure if you asked Tez he would know exactly how many. He joked how he couldn’t dump me and I think at times I became his nightmare of that female voice in his head. The final 10kms seemed forever. The rock climbs that many hours ago seemed fun and amazing were now relentless and tiring.

Our humor became our survival. “Rock what Rock”. To this day I do not believe I will ever create a rock garden. I suddenly could feel and smell the sea air, my want for the finish was growing. We were hoping for a 3pm roll in on presentation but it was not meant to be. 7kms out I finally got phone reception and called Phil. I really just needed to hear his voice. He says “See you in a half an hour then darling, you are nearly here”. Like as if…Rocks…Still more Rocks to go down. Yes down is easy for someone who has not already ran, walked, climbed and crawled the last 170km of rugged terrain. So I will leave it to your imagination of the descriptive words that came from my mouth when I saw the climb down to the beach. I am surprised that Tez did not push me down to relieve him of some of his pain.

We were both hurting but Tez had continually spoken of his family, the love for his wife and young children was a joy to hear. They were waiting at the beach entrance for him to run him home. It was knowing this that got him through the pain of the final decent. Being greeted on the beach surrounded by his beautiful family, running to the kissing pole (the finishing) was such an amazing and memorable feeling. I could see the emotion in Tez’s eyes hidden behind his glasses. These young children inspired him and kept him going through the long torturous hours of pain he had endured. Their excitement of seeing their Dad made all the pain go away and I was so grateful to experience and being a part of his journey, becoming part of mine. Running those final meters surrounded by his loved ones was the highlight of the entire event. Thank you Tez for putting up with me along with my really bad sense of humor. I do act like a lady off the trail…Really.:-) Sharing 33rd place was an honor. With 85 starters for the Miler, only 46 survived and we were two of them. Cress.. Thank you for you quick actions in saving me from that DNF option. Dean and Brad I am so grateful for allowing me to tag along and sharing your stories throughout the final hours keeping me focused on the finishing line. Brad I am so sorry for my bad ars attitude responses to your encouragement of “we are nearly there”. I hope I am forgiven and I am no longer a bad memory. All you guys were awesome.

My husband Phil, we made a super amazing team (finally we got it right). Knowing you were waiting at each checkpoint freezing you backside off and not complaining once. Providing me with all my needs and reassurance to get to the next one. I could not ask for more in a crew and in a husband with such commitment. I love you dearly for not just being there throughout the event but during the long months of many training hours leading into race. I could not ask more from such an amazing man and husband.

The volunteers were all amazing at each checkpoint. Your support and passion for the event that could not happen without you all, I know all the runners are sincerely grateful. Race Director David Byrnes your love for trails and allowing endurance runners to experience their boundaries in such an event in our home country we cannot thank you enough. Your website warning lives up to each word written. This race is one that deserves respect and appreciated for it toughness. I once said I would never do a race twice but this one has got me. I will return more aware and prepared but also still with the respect of what it may deliver. Greg Brown, thank you for setting the challenge, along with your hospitality and caring for my needs after the race. My Coach Greg Rowsell your ongoing commitment to get me mentally and physically prepared for every start and finishing line. Along with never doubting my ability to achieve my goals, I could not thank you enough. My physio Erin from Movement Improvement for your ongoing care to ensure my body is fined tuned and remained injury free.Your honesty and advice is priceless.I could have written a race report on the beautiful scenery or many other descriptions of the trail. In reality this race is spectacular and with amazing views to see but it is about the runners seeking to challenge their bodies and pushing the boundaries to see what they can achieve is the true story behind this race.

Love My Running 🙂

 

Writing something not related to a running event is always challenging. In saying that the past week in Queenstown, New Zealand has been far from lazing about and just doing a bit of site seeing. I have fully learned to appreciate any runners capabilities who live there. You can put your running shoes on and no matter which way you head off you find yourself tackling hills and the body quickly rebels knowing it is on new training turf. I soon found many trails that challenged me both physically and mentally. The diversity of terrain is truly amazing and I quickly found myself lost on adventurous trails leading to wherever they took me. Hours seemed short and the kilometers and elevations of my adventures soon became unaccountable. I was quickly amazed how my body adapted to the conditions I put it under. My biggest demon was running many hours solo. Not seeing anyone for hours and mentally had to let the serenity of being amongst nature that was unbelievably beautiful take over and remove any unwilling thoughts. By Friday I had adjusted to this and found myself pounding up the trails, now acclimatized not just to the cooler weather but to the terrain underfoot. Either my legs had just gave up fighting with me or they quickly adjusted to the consistency of the variable terrain and elevation. They certainly did not argue with my final run on the Friday.

Monday was tough. I hurt, my quads screamed at me and I had no idea what I was in for. On reaching the top of Ben Lomond Peak was breathtaking.  The crisp air, the silence and not a breath of wind was spectacular. I just stood there looking around, not thinking of anything else but how far I had come up and how high my legs had taken me. I have no words other than photos that thankfully another adventurer having his lunch must have noticed my amazement and offered to take a photo on my phone. (He didn’t speak English but I handed over my iphone quickly to grasp the moment :-)).

Tuesday I awoke, body feeling the after effects from the previous day, but I was eager to find another trail. Feeling a bit sorry for my legs I headed around the lake on the Queenstown trail and Frankton track and followed the Kawarau River. In truth I actually did not really know where I ended up but I kept my promise to my legs and kept to a minimal elevation. Lucky I didn’t promise any distance.:-). Nothing like a short marathon for a days outing.

Wednesday was huge and spectacular. The plan was to run the Routeburn Track but on heading in I soon found a more challenging trail. The Rockburn Track that certainly tested my technical running skills. My backpack loaded for all weather conditions and nutrition knowing I could end up anywhere. I ran, walked and climbed throughout the day. The ground was moist and challenging with the added elevation. I sat at times to recover looking up thinking “How amazing is this”. Silence other than the constant sound of water running near by and purer untouched beauty. After finally reaching the tree line I stepped out onto the flats and was totally astonished at what I saw. I was amongst the clouds literally. I now had ski posts to follow and a 360 degree view of nothing but stunning scenery. While I soaked up what was around me, I kept watch on a slowly moving dark cloud soon to hit the ground I was on.

I could see ahead the poles directed me to a drop down into a valley. I knew I needed to be there before the cloud reached where I was currently. So quickly I headed towards the valley entrance and found it was going to be a fun ride down but a tough return. With a meeting time frame back were I started I thought best do an out and back rather than attempt going onto another trail. The descent into the valley was extreme but worth it. I found a stream down near the entrance out to the lake and took off my pack and rested. Time for some refueling and thoughts on my long return back. I knew from the climb down meant a tough return. It definitely did live up to my expectations. It tested my fitness level to climb back up to the flat and keep watch on my return meeting time. It totally took my breath away with only 40mins back to where I had predicated the cloud to drop, I found accurate. Where I ran across the flat only the hour before now become a challenging hike through slush. The moisture fallen on the ground had made it wetlands. Every step was unpredictable and deceiving of the depth it put my foot under. They skies were clearer but after several minutes I was looking forward to hitting the downhill valley return towards the Routeburn track. At the first river crossing washing my shoes from mud was relieving. The water so crystal clear and tasted so fresh. I was now busting to get back to my meeting point to see husband, Phil and show my photo’s of where I had just been. I powered down the trail, promising my quads I would give them a nice oil bath that evening.:-). I must admit I pushed out hard to meet my time frame. With 3 minutes to spare I crossed the swaying bridge to a smiling awaiting husband. With an awesome day to remember.

Thursday once again I kept my promise to my body with a light run/walk around the lower trails. Having the opportunity to get some running pictures while Phil was taking photos of the waterfalls. Finally I got a jumping photo that still looks like more training is required.:-).

Friday, by now I had only a couple of trails that I wanted to cover and more confident in my ability in taking on some serious elevation. The legs were alive again and I was determined to have a nice steady but hard gradual run up the skyline track. Followed by ending the week with a scenic run around the Fernhill loop. It was a sad moment running out of the path of falling leaves but my week had come to an end. Rain was predicted for the weekend with many locals welcoming the cooler wet weather to bring on the snow season.

Flying out was with mixed feelings. I was ready for home but in my head I was thinking, of the experience and training on the New Zealand trails could easily become addictive. Even after 5 days I feel stronger and ready to hit my home turf for some serious training leading up to the Gold Coast 100. Along with being the Ambassador for the CTC Rocky River Run 2016, I have plenty of excitement to head home to and looking forward to being part of making this event bigger and better than ever.

Love My Running :-).

Originally I was a bit stuck on what to write and what would be worth to publish. Well I have plenty of time on runs to think about things and this is my mixture of thoughts over the last many K’s.

The final Stats from the Tarawera Ultra Marathon Race wrap up. To share this really puts the race in its true perceptive of toughness. It gave me an appreciation of my own race result and I become aware that you can not anticipate how you are going to perform under conditions you have not trained or raced in and ultimately have no control over on the day.

“623 runners entered the 100k, 504 made it to the start line and 316 finished. 148 100k runners dropped down in distance on race day, 105 of them finishing the 60k and 53 finishing the 85k.

The 85k had 177 entrants (relay teams counted as one entrant), with 163 starters and 189 finishers. The 60k had 291 entrants, 229 starters and 323 finishers. Almost 100 more runners finished the 60k than actually started! Fully 22% of the field changed their distance on race day with around 20% (180 runners) shifting down a distance and 2% going longer.”

So what am I up to next……

CBR.48hr, 24hr, 12hr/100km & 6hr Races, Canberra 18th-20th March 2016 AIS Track & Field Facility

No not 48 hours in circles, just 12 hours. I always admired athletes that ran in circles for many hours but thought it was insane and one challenge I would leave alone.  Unfortunately I now have to admit to being a hypocrite. After doing the Brisbane River Run 100km last August, I did think 10x 10km loops would be a last. Along with the Wild Horse Criterium last Easter with 7 loops of 50 mile (80km) of trail also in the rain. I guess why not try all levels and variety of Ultra Running. A 400m track, Circles,  well this is definitely going to be a 12 hour challenge. I have never ran on this type of surface before and it will be a new experience. So what is my personal expectations? I am going to put on my lightest Saucony runners, a smile on my face and just run until I am told to stop. Avoid watching the clock. Soak up the atmosphere and enjoy being around others with the same passion. Maybe I should put a bit of a nutrition plan together :-).  It will be different not having that finishing line. So the countdown begins with only 1 week 4 days till I start running circles.

Love My Running :-).

 

 

It is now time to file away another event.  I finally had time to review my run and read lots of other runners blogs. Many describing the race as a “brutal, amazing, and an epic journey”. Yes that is for sure. The Rotorua Daily Post News titled their article “Brutal race deemed a Success”. Yes definitely. Though I must say when re reading the course map the words as quoted “Free draining volcanic soil NO MUD”. UM… I guess it was still draining. “Technical/uneven, Steep downhill NO MUD” UM… “Long Sweeping downhill NO MUD”UM… “arse-biting steep”, “with nice view” OK finally we are on the same page.  Yes MUD was the ultimate challenge on the day. I say that with a smile on my face and at times I just had to stop and soak up the beautiful scenery that surrounded me. For all my family and friends, here are the photo’s supplied free from the event organisers. How awesome. My results, I came 33rd Female, 156th overall and 12th in my category. In such a competitive field I am a winner crossing another awesome (102.7km) finishing line. Many Thanks to all who followed my journey and sent such encouraging messages of support before, during and after the race.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Love My Running :-).

 

The race would not be on the Ultra-Trail World Tour list if it was not meant to be a tough run. Though this year the runners had it tougher. With not just a change in course to assist in breaking up the field by adding an additional big sucker of a hill. With much of the event on single trail. We were also faced with the consistent rain falling for the entire event. The trail soon become a challenge of slip and sliding in deep mud to slippery on accents and descents. Though I had the rain in my race plan I had not calculated the 24 hours of rainfall on the trail prior to the event. This making it a challenge from the start.

  By the 60k mark I was in complete survival mode. Many had already pulled out due to injury or just were totally spent. On passing the 60k finishing line I watched exhausted 100k entrants surrendering to the first welcoming finishing line. Further down the trail I over heard others contemplating if they were to complete the 100 or happy to surrender with surviving the 85k option. This was not going to be an option for me. I came here to do the 100 & that was what finishing line I was going to cross. Also I had to make the mental decision after falling back in the field to take my eye of my time & go into mentally focusing on just getting through without injury.

The consistent falling rain was unforgiving and at times pounded the body. My husband (Phil) at each check point could feel my pain but consistently encouraged me to the next checkpoint. To see him there was my life line. His support and encouragement was truly amazing. Not once did he lose faith in me and drew me out of my darkness. Along with spending many hours in the rain himself and being unable to take photographs of what we know is such beautiful place on a sunny day.

After nearly losing a shoe in the mud I tightened my laces and still have the lace makings on my feet.😄 Also due to the heavy rain the shrubs and tree fronds fell low many sharp but after 60k this was the least of my concerns. Tarawera Falls was beautiful even through the misty rain. With my shoes consistently wet I soon decided that running through large puddles crossing roads & paths was just as easy than opting to try to find an alternative.

“The loop of despair” at 85k was the most mental challenging part of the race and only in the 100k course. Straight up & straight down but by this stage in the race I had either caught up or others caught up with me. We all knew what we were in for and with much of the course running solo I enjoyed the company and the encouragement of other runners battling the challenge. We all know as runners a loop back to a checkpoint is challenging in itself.

In the last 10ks of the race I felt that finishing feeling. I was over being wet and 10ks was nothing mentally. It was wet but flat (finally) and I wanted that finishing line feeling so badly. Crossing that line was amazing as always. I was completely satisfied that I gave all I had and more. Sitting in the recovery tent waiting for the all clear I got time to speak to other runners. Their stories gave me the insurance I needed. It was tough and many completing in hours behind they race plan but like myself was happy with what they could give on the day.

On the race presentation and closing many told similar stories. But we can not have power of what Mother Nature is going to deliver. I can say that the race director and organiser Paul and Tim put on one amazing event. With nothing left out from amazing checkpoint supplies, happy encouraging volunteers and supporters regardless of the weather conditions. It was without doubt the best ran and organised event I have attended to date. I would encourage anyone to put this one on their bucket list.

Yes I have some war wounds and obviously have a few sore muscles, but survived without injury under extreme conditions. Would I do this all over again..yep stupid question. Without doubt, I learned so much and as always love the challenge.

I still have not looked at my splits or where I came in the field but know I am happy with what I delivered on the day. I crossed another finishing line with nothing left in the tank and not disappointed by any means.

Love My Running 😊

The time is near. Sharon Kearney you will be happy to know Phil has me organised :-). Race pack picked up, race briefing done and race plan set. As any Ultra runner knows we have to plan for any conditions. Well mine for this race is now enjoying most likely most of the 100km in the rain. A waterproof jacket has been set for our mandatory gear, so that sets the hydration pack option plan in place. I know my Saucony Trail shoes will be my best friend. They have done well in wet conditions in the past.

Now ready for a good nights rest ready for that start line. Many thanks to all the messages of best wishes from family and friends. There is lots of excitement in the air and the rain will not change that. Reminder, we are 3 hours in front of you all back home. So while you are still dreaming, I will be at the start line visualising the finishing line. I will be looking forward to the thermal pools at that finishing line.

Love My Running :-).

Only 2 more sleeps and I will be standing at another start line for 2016. Excitement setting in after recovering from the travelling. The disadvantage of living in a country town giving me the additional travel time.

Spending this morning checking out the start line and going for a good long walk through the beautiful scenic Rotorua Redwoods. Opting for a travel recovery day of a long walk and some site seeing rather than in running clothes, just the running shoes. Perfect weather conditions making it a perfect day for being a tourist still whilst stretching the legs. Spending the morning experiencing the historical culture at “The Living Maori Village” and appreciating the history behind the Geysers and Maori culture. Then an amazing afternoon walking the trails through “Waimangu Volcanic Valley”. So I believe I covered many kilometres feeling refreshed and pre race training session successful. :-).

 

Tomorrow between the expo, race pack pick up, race briefing and briefing my crew man (hubby Phil) of race plan and requirements it will be a full pre race day.  The race will have live tracking so even without internet for Facebook updating I won’t be able to hide. So with race bib number 95 you may track me down.

What ever the outcome I will cross that finishing line with a smile.

Love My Running 🙂

 

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.