With "that" 3:30AM start i admit i was in a quandary as to when i'd get there or whether i'd have a sleep at home this year, ultimately a warm afternoon at the Tri Nations Beach Cricket solved that problem pretty well as by the time i'd walked back home i was quite ready for a nap (at 6PM ). However after 3 and a half hours of tossing and turning decided i may as well have "Dinnfast" (a combination of dinner and breakfast), and then hit the road. Got there at around 12:30 and had a good sleep in the car waking at 3, perfect timing. Gave me a chance to fill in the appropriate paperwork as well as catch up with a few other runners.
Personally i do find running in the dark hard when i haven't had some running in fading light first and when i decided to just run with the handheld bottle that meant i was committed to wearing the headlamp (no way was i going to run with torch in one hand, handheld in the other i would have been a certainty to do a faceplant somewhere early !).
A few words and we were off, very pleasant conditions (not the humidity of last year) and certainly made it to the first manned aid station earlier than last year (not early enough to hand in my headlight). Found i was running in a group with Tafftrail and Prewannabee and at one point in a group of six (unheard of in Glasshouse Ultras !).
We were making pretty good time but i wasn't really convinced that i was going to be able to hold that pace till the end. When we got into Beerburrum was surprised when me and PWB left and found Tafftrail not picking us up and we ran again very comfortably and relatively fast.
We'd seen a few Hounds running towards us when heading towards the next aid station but from what i could work out we looked comfortably placed to beat them all in.
Endura and Coke seemed to have a positive effect on me (i wish that was always the case ) and i got away from PWB, was just hoping i could see some other runners to chase. Steep downhill and i was passed by Roger Guard but caught up with him on the flat and we got into the aid station together. Roger made one fatal error there, he mentioned that he needed salt, so i assumed he was beginning to cramp seeing suffering in a fellow runner always spurs me on and i took off hard, had a good drink of coke at the last aid station (5? K's to go) and was still looking for people to chase.
Unfortunately that wasn't to be, i did pick up a couple of 10K runners but no sight of that leading group of three (results show why i was at least 20 minutes behind third), but was feeling full of energy and ultimately very happy with my 4:53 (an improvement of 40 minutes on last years injured performance). Great runs by the first three, some very talented runners.
Not sure which is my preferred place to finish a summer Ultra a pool or a pub but Woodford Pool was close enough to heaven for me this time and a good beginning to the year.
Thursday, 5 February 2009
Monday, 2 February 2009
An update of where i'm at
Have to admit my aim had been to retire this blog once i'd finally done the Badwater Report, i'd had a lovely blogfree 4 weeks over Christmas and i guess in the back of my mind was the thought that any opposing runners out there who read it would be sucked into thinking i'd been taking it easy and not doing any training.
Definitely far from the truth, apart from the usual training, i'd done a number of Fatass Runs, firstly "Fat's Festive Fatass"
http://www.coolrunning.com.au/fatass/hq/index.php?title=Fats_Festive_Fat_Ass_QLD
a 46K run around Mt Nebo, followed up by a drive down to Sydney on New Years Eve for the Beyond the Black Stump Run
http://www.coolrunning.com.au/fatass/hq/index.php?title=Beyond_The_Black_Stump
Whilst down in Sydney also did a 10K race around "The Bay" as well as joining in with Billies Bushies to do one of their regular Saturday Morning runs in the magnificent Royal National Park, probably the hardest 100 minutes of running i've ever down with soft mud being like quick sand topped off by then getting the energy back in the legs enough to swim to the finish of the run.
Managed to find myself doing a Six Foot Track training run before i left the state as well with a run with over the 27K's of the Woodford to Glenbrook Course.
So heaps of running (and a reasonable amount of drinking - didn't want to get too fit those 4 days in Sydney after all there's a long year ahead racewise :-) ), as well as good times spent with various running mates there.
Still having finally done the Badwater report, was tossing up whether to retire the blog but whilst i wouldn't claim to be superstitious the fact is i wasn't anxious to create an Aussierunner 3 (or similar title) for my next overseas races as i couldn't recall any movie that sequel 3 was as good as the first 2 and in that case it may mean failure to finish (actually as movies go i did enjoy The Godfather 3 but even i'll admit it wasn't in the same league as the first two).
So here we are a month into 2009, lots of training and 2 races (Hares and Hounds report just done - i know i'm out of sequence), probably fitter this early in the year than i've been for years, partly caused by the weather up here with the sort of heat and humidity we've had recently going out and running 2 to 3 Hours has to work up a helluva sweat.
With minimal work hours over most of Christmas i've even had the chance to relax and rest and courtesy of the Gold Coast Library DVD Collection work my way through my favourite ever TV series (and the Mafia drama that leaves one of my recent favourites "The Sopranos" for dead) "La Piovra" http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086779/
("The Octopus") a truly great sprawling saga, off hand an Italian/French/Bulgarian/German CoProduction and quite possibly the only show i'd ever gladly sit through hours and hours of subtitles.
Been great to watch it all the way from the beginning, back in the 80's when it started on Australian TV on SBS it was regularly on late, can't often recall it finishing before midnight (and usually on a Tuesday night strangely the same problem i had in recent times with The Sopranos), so whilst i'm pretty sure i saw it all often was a struggle against sleep as well, certainly being able to watch it at times of my own choosing has given me a greater appreciation of the series first hero Corrado Cattani as well as my favourite on screen villian Tano Cariddi (technically not Mafiosa but in reality a banker - sounds rather like real life :-) ), having worked my way through to series 4 i know i've still got some of my favourite parts ahead of me (and with another all time favourite character Silvia Conti involved only in it from series 4 onwards - essentially a female version of real life Sicilian Mafia Fighter Giovanni Falcone http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Falcone - but much easier on the eyes!), now it's a case of the library system catching up with dvds being available.
Whilst i do the odd concert review (or have done) on this blog i don't think i'll come at doing DVD reviews however anyone wanting some great viewing, up to and including series 6 would have to be the best TV i've ever seen, unfortunately towards the end of series 6, life began to imitate art too much (with the real life killing of Falcone) and whilst 7 was still a great story a series without Tano could not be the same. Prequels were to follow in series 8 & 9 (and only telemovies rather than episodic series) and whilst they gave a great background (and 8. was essential to work out just what made Tano tick and why he was more dangerous than the Cosa Nostra), i think all true fans were waiting for an ultimate showdown which finally came to be in Series 10 (again a telemovie although redeemed by the fact Tano reappears in the last 10 minutes at the time giving hope that ultimately we'd get a full resolution as really the only neat way to finish the saga was to have only of the great survivors left, whether it be Silvia or Tano, unfortunately 7 years on i know that will never happen so just have to enjoy the masterpiece that was created between 1984 and 2001. Interestingly have only recently seen the actor playing Tano, Remo Girome, in one role since again as a villian though far less sinister in a recent episode of SBS's Inspector Rex funnily enough a series that had Rauol Bova in the main role - not the dog !- for a couple of seasons before he went and played a cop in Octopus 7 and then strangely played a different cop in the two prequels 8 & 9, possibly showing a lack of depth of Italian actors ???. As for the actor playing Cattani, Michele Placido, almost felt he was typecast as the only other movie i've ever seen him was a telemovie with him as Giovanni Falcone, as for Silvia, Patricia Millardet, have only seen her in, more as eye candy rather than acting ability, in a very forgettable take on what was a much better Wilbur Smith Novel "Wild Justice").
Anyway now i've filled in the gaps of the 6 weeks, simply this blog will become more a repositry of race reports !!, rather than of training, now i'd better get my head around this weekends Caboolture 12 Hours.
Definitely far from the truth, apart from the usual training, i'd done a number of Fatass Runs, firstly "Fat's Festive Fatass"
http://www.coolrunning.com.au/fatass/hq/index.php?title=Fats_Festive_Fat_Ass_QLD
a 46K run around Mt Nebo, followed up by a drive down to Sydney on New Years Eve for the Beyond the Black Stump Run
http://www.coolrunning.com.au/fatass/hq/index.php?title=Beyond_The_Black_Stump
Whilst down in Sydney also did a 10K race around "The Bay" as well as joining in with Billies Bushies to do one of their regular Saturday Morning runs in the magnificent Royal National Park, probably the hardest 100 minutes of running i've ever down with soft mud being like quick sand topped off by then getting the energy back in the legs enough to swim to the finish of the run.
Managed to find myself doing a Six Foot Track training run before i left the state as well with a run with over the 27K's of the Woodford to Glenbrook Course.
So heaps of running (and a reasonable amount of drinking - didn't want to get too fit those 4 days in Sydney after all there's a long year ahead racewise :-) ), as well as good times spent with various running mates there.
Still having finally done the Badwater report, was tossing up whether to retire the blog but whilst i wouldn't claim to be superstitious the fact is i wasn't anxious to create an Aussierunner 3 (or similar title) for my next overseas races as i couldn't recall any movie that sequel 3 was as good as the first 2 and in that case it may mean failure to finish (actually as movies go i did enjoy The Godfather 3 but even i'll admit it wasn't in the same league as the first two).
So here we are a month into 2009, lots of training and 2 races (Hares and Hounds report just done - i know i'm out of sequence), probably fitter this early in the year than i've been for years, partly caused by the weather up here with the sort of heat and humidity we've had recently going out and running 2 to 3 Hours has to work up a helluva sweat.
With minimal work hours over most of Christmas i've even had the chance to relax and rest and courtesy of the Gold Coast Library DVD Collection work my way through my favourite ever TV series (and the Mafia drama that leaves one of my recent favourites "The Sopranos" for dead) "La Piovra" http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086779/
("The Octopus") a truly great sprawling saga, off hand an Italian/French/Bulgarian/German CoProduction and quite possibly the only show i'd ever gladly sit through hours and hours of subtitles.
Been great to watch it all the way from the beginning, back in the 80's when it started on Australian TV on SBS it was regularly on late, can't often recall it finishing before midnight (and usually on a Tuesday night strangely the same problem i had in recent times with The Sopranos), so whilst i'm pretty sure i saw it all often was a struggle against sleep as well, certainly being able to watch it at times of my own choosing has given me a greater appreciation of the series first hero Corrado Cattani as well as my favourite on screen villian Tano Cariddi (technically not Mafiosa but in reality a banker - sounds rather like real life :-) ), having worked my way through to series 4 i know i've still got some of my favourite parts ahead of me (and with another all time favourite character Silvia Conti involved only in it from series 4 onwards - essentially a female version of real life Sicilian Mafia Fighter Giovanni Falcone http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Falcone - but much easier on the eyes!), now it's a case of the library system catching up with dvds being available.
Whilst i do the odd concert review (or have done) on this blog i don't think i'll come at doing DVD reviews however anyone wanting some great viewing, up to and including series 6 would have to be the best TV i've ever seen, unfortunately towards the end of series 6, life began to imitate art too much (with the real life killing of Falcone) and whilst 7 was still a great story a series without Tano could not be the same. Prequels were to follow in series 8 & 9 (and only telemovies rather than episodic series) and whilst they gave a great background (and 8. was essential to work out just what made Tano tick and why he was more dangerous than the Cosa Nostra), i think all true fans were waiting for an ultimate showdown which finally came to be in Series 10 (again a telemovie although redeemed by the fact Tano reappears in the last 10 minutes at the time giving hope that ultimately we'd get a full resolution as really the only neat way to finish the saga was to have only of the great survivors left, whether it be Silvia or Tano, unfortunately 7 years on i know that will never happen so just have to enjoy the masterpiece that was created between 1984 and 2001. Interestingly have only recently seen the actor playing Tano, Remo Girome, in one role since again as a villian though far less sinister in a recent episode of SBS's Inspector Rex funnily enough a series that had Rauol Bova in the main role - not the dog !- for a couple of seasons before he went and played a cop in Octopus 7 and then strangely played a different cop in the two prequels 8 & 9, possibly showing a lack of depth of Italian actors ???. As for the actor playing Cattani, Michele Placido, almost felt he was typecast as the only other movie i've ever seen him was a telemovie with him as Giovanni Falcone, as for Silvia, Patricia Millardet, have only seen her in, more as eye candy rather than acting ability, in a very forgettable take on what was a much better Wilbur Smith Novel "Wild Justice").
Anyway now i've filled in the gaps of the 6 weeks, simply this blog will become more a repositry of race reports !!, rather than of training, now i'd better get my head around this weekends Caboolture 12 Hours.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
Mansfield to Mt Buller 50K
After a rather humid week on the Gold Coast (with only one 2.5 Hour training run) was quite glad to be heading south for Mansfield to Buller. Apparently Victoria had been in a grip of a heatwave (as usual for the Australian Open Tennis), but by Saturday Melbourne at least had cooled down, however i was to find that over the dividing range it was still well in the 30's.
Bit of a saga at the airport, i'd been upgraded to a Toyota Prius but with non key operation i'd first tried to start it and then got the person from Budget to try and still unable to, gave up and was instead given a Toyota Aurion. Once i'd worked out how to operate a car without a handbrake !!!, had a good drive to Mansfield and then on to my accommodation at Merrijig. Relaxing afternoon (it's not as though Merrijig has shops !) with a dip in the pool being about as touristy as i got.
Unfortunately the pasta on the restaurant menu (where i was staying) had Carbonara (ie white) sauce, but whilst it wasn't my usual favoured Bolognaise doubted it would be an issue.
Set the alarm for 4:30 as i didn't want last years saga where i managed to almost miss the start, and being 15 minutes drive from the start couldn't take chances.
Good nights sleep, but was worried to find it so cold, probably explains why i slept so well as i was used to restless nights in heat recently.
Made it to the start with a few minutes to spare and was tossing up whether to keep the gloves on or not, but eventually convinced myself i'd never worn gloves there before (may have something to do with 13 of my previous 14 starts being at 7 !).
Without previous race winner Tim Cochrane there, i saw no obvious race leader so with hands numb with cold i grudgingly took off to set the pace. 5K's and i was running well but hands were frozen and i could feel i was wasting my energy trying to maintain my body temperature being that the running was taking way more out of me than it should have. Thankfully between 5 & 10K's i was beginning to hear footsteps and whilst refusing to look behind me i was very happy to ease back a little and swap the lead with Lachlan Lewis at the next aid station.
I was confident i had Lachlan's measure as he'd done Bogong to Hotham two weeks back and having done this double 11 times knew just how hard it is to back up here.
Peter Gray had set out at 4AM and he was the next runner i was to see, just before Merrijig, looked like he was in for a long day (and quite possibly out to erase Drew Kittle's 1992 slowest time record).
By the 15K mark i was finally getting feeling in my right hand, but was still struggling with the left and it wasn't until almost 20K's down that i finally had feeling in both. By this point the cool day had grown a little warmer as the sun had risen and i was beginning to get a good rhythm, but after having a lolly at the 20K aid station knew i'd wasted way more energy than was good as i still hadn't chewed through it by the next one 5K's away.
Lachlan was still a consistent distance in front and i was happily tracking him down as well as not hearing foot stops behind me. This continued until the 35K mark (although my mind was distracted somewhere around 30K's by the odour of dead wombat), by which time i realised Lachlan was beginning to weaken a little, i pushed along a little faster and by 37K's passed him and was relieved to not here him giving chase. Probably only a mile of good thoughts as i then heard new fresher footsteps, and was soon overtaken by Greg Love (like me another winner of this race in the 90's, whilst a little older definitely a faster Marathon runner than i).
Can't say i was surpised i knew Greg was well suited by this distance and he's a very tough, old runner so pretty much my only option was to let him run his own race and if he weakened i'd be along to pick up the pieces.
Had the one GU i was carrying and decided i was better off saving energy on the steep uphill turns by walking, in theory leaving me with something for a finishing kick. Was a consistent distance behind Greg and at the 44K Aid Station he was leaving as i arrived, had a feeling i might have him before the end.
However i got to the ski village (beautiful conditions by now, showing 20 degrees on the thermometer there) and couldn't see him. Found out later he'd gone by the slightly longer, but easier road whilst i'd used the steeper, shorter path and saw him going around the turn as i was half way up the village. Hit the Arlberg (Finish line) and had a couple of cups of coke as well as washing down a couple of Succeed Caps, knew this last leg was make or break.
Can't honestly say i was making up much ground, particularly walking the uphills but by the time we hit the grass ski slope reckoned i may get him on the down hill.
We were both on the stone path to the Cairn at the same time so definitely not much in it, but all i could do was what i could on the way there, it was downhill would make or break it.
High fives and words of encouragement as we passed each other (him on his way back, me on my way there) and once of the path pushed it harder down the ski slope, by my calculations i was gaining ground. Walked fast uphill and was within 5 yards or so with all downhill ahead, and was already planning to catch up and put thoughts of a dead heat in his mind as frankly had nothing left.
Unfortunately here the wheels fell off, tried to sprint downhill but hamstring and calf were way too tight and was having thoughts i being marooned there with snapped hammie and placegetters went by. I had no choice but to ease back and gingerly get back in one piece, by now i'd seen 3rd and 4th coming towards me and knew that bar fatal injury i was safe so sadly just did what i needed to to finish, ultimately finishing 43 seconds behind.
Ultimately my second fastest time there (with 11 BtoH MtB Doubles and a couple of injured runs over those years, not that surprising to be honest), and definitely not embarassing to have been beaten by Greg.
A good start to the year, now for the chiropractor, knowing my body that sort of muscle tightness is always back related !.
Thursday, 8 January 2009
Badwater - The Saga
For me the Badwater dream started only a few years back, I vaguely recall newscasts in the late 70’s about various races between Tony Rafferty and George Perdon across the Nullarbor and later across Death Valley, back then I’d never run a marathon and would only have been in my early teens but these things stuck in my head (as did a lot of other incredibly useless trivia just anybody ask me about a pacer called “Paleface Adios” or his much lesser known contempary “Tan Heel” or many varied weird and probably less than wonderous facts about numerous musical acts and you‘ll see what I mean). By the time I ran my first marathon a number of years later (Melbourne Marathon 12th October 1986) the last thing I ever thought was one day I’d be looking at emulating their feats, in fact I can recall saying never again for something like the next 10 months (until I put my entry in for the 1987 marathon).
After finally run a sub 3 Hour Marathon at my 10th attempt in late 1991, i'd pretty much realised i'd done all i wanted to achieve at that distance and it was time to take on longer challenges, ultimately in the years between then and now i'd run 202 Ultra Marathons although i never claimed that there was anything such as an easy ultra.
I'm getting ahead of myself now, certainly i'd seen footage at times (usually as a filler on the 6:30 news along the lines of “why the hell would you do this ?), of people racing across Death Valley, but it was not until i ran La Transe Gaule across France that i learnt there was actually a race that “normal people” could enter (a couple of other starters had done it and both i had beaten there).
On my return i virtually retired from running (for a whole 5 weeks), i'd achieved what i had set out to do by finishing the run across France and with painful shin splints was both physically and emotionally spent my only motivation being that whatever happened i'd still front up and continue my streak at the Melbourne Marathon, other than that i didn't really care.
However i still had one other Ultra that i'd pre entered the 2007 Western States 100 Miler in June 2007, possibly it would keep me going but frankly the cheaper option was to write off that entry fee and not head to the US, however after a shock sub 3 in the Melbourne Marathon i then rediscovered that zest for running (as my old blog went on about for a couple of months including a couple of wins). Come December 2006 and i'd found out all the details needed to enter the race as well as the fact that entry applications were only open for 3 weeks in January, definitely looked ideal Western States 100 Miler followed up by Badwater 3 weeks later, optimal use of the US trip.
Of course not everything goes to plan, January ended up being the break up in relationship between me and my employer of 23 years Dun & Bradstreet, hard to explain but i'm sure it was similar to a marriage breakdown and quite simply the last thing on my mind those 3 weeks was putting an entry in, me bitter, cynical and at times having incredible mood swings was definitely using running to keep my head above water (and away from booze) but planning a race 6 months away just wasn't in my capabilities at that time (as shown by the fact i finally booked my trip to Western States less than 2 weeks before the event). As this blog shows Western States the race was a complete disaster for me with a cold on arrival on US soil and ultimately dnf'ing for the second time in my career, but there were positives
having 3 weeks before my return home post race it gave me time to enjoy Californian hospitality and also find my way around the state and eventually make it to Death Valley. Whilst i can't claim a day driving and walking around Death Valley made me a local it did however make me realise i had an affinity with the place and simply enjoyed that sort of heat, i'd now discovered what would now be my goal in 2008.
Come January 2008 and as soon as i was able i had my entry application in and was absolutely rapt to be offered a start in February, finally it was going to happen.
That weekend i was in Melbourne doing a race and caught up with another Badwater Starter Brendan Mason so we'd planned sharing some rooms with our crews to save on accommodation costs and with me out the country for 2 weeks (bad timing unfortunately) he'd sort out booking this accommodation whilst i'd email prospective crew members from the BW email list. Whilst in Phuket i managed to get to crew members, both experienced multiple Badwater Crew, Ian Stevens and Steve Ochoa and also a possible 2 others but managing to lose my phone (and therefore internet access) was not able to confirm all this until my return home. Ultimately i picked up another two crew members including Steve Hanes, an experienced 100 Mile runner looking at a start in 2009 and another crew member who ultimately had a job change around Easter and was unable to crew. Come April i'd picked up another very enthusiastic crew member Matt Mundy and i could see things taking shape, now it was just a case of training and racing hard and getting over there in time to acclimatise.
All went to plan and by June 23 i was in Los Angeles and then off to Squaw Valley where i had planned to assist some of the Aussies in this years Western States, again bit of a glitch planwise as the race was called off with bushfires however it did mean i got 3 good days of running in up there as well as a bit of altitude training. Decided to drive home to LA via Death Valley and spent a couple of days there, and also spent much time time sorting out my accommodation both there and in Lone Pine and now Hong Kong Based Brendan was no longer a starter but with bookings in his name and numerous time differences was having a lot of hassles. Two days in Death Valley as well as a hike to the peak of Mount Whitney and decided a few days back in LA for the July 4 long weekend was the way to go, with the plan then to spend the last week back in DV as final acclimatisation.
Sun, surf, live music and beaches with long running paths was the ideal in between break, but with LA barely reaching 80 degrees knew that i'd be heading back to heat once the weekend was over. Still unsure what shoes to wear, i couldn't resist a $77 Pair of ASICS DS Trainers at Sports Chalet, but with still much shopping to do (courtesy of a list from Ian) decided that a couple of days in Las Vegas was the best option, as not only would it be stinking hot, i'd also have mobile phone reception so that i could still talk to my crew just in case there were any purchases we had neglected to think of.
Anybody having read this blog over the last year would know my thoughts on Las Vegas (iredeemably tacky !) but i'll admit massive Walmart stores were a godsend, although i'm not sure what the checkout chicks must have thought as i wheeled out trolley fulls of 50 Cent Quart bottles of Gatorade. Also finally found the ideal legionnaire cap at REI Henderson and mini Clif Bars ultimately essentials as it turned out.
Two nights in Vegas is probably two nights too many so set out happily on the Wednesday to the relative civilization of Furnace Creek. I'd initially planned to camp there until my crew arrived, but in the Visitor Centre was told that the temperature had not dropped below 110 Degrees at night for the last week, remembered just how unervating those sort of night time temperatures were when i was running across the Simpson Desert in 2002 and decided it was worthwhile booking a cabin for a few nights. First night ran the 5 miles to Zabriskie Point just in time for a glorious sunset, dip in a thermal spring heated pool (90 odd degrees) and a cabin, even with an airconditioner, still over 100 degrees.
Next day did Zabriskie Point in the heat and came back via Golden Gully was feeling very confident that the heat wasn't going to be an issue, by now there were a few other runners about and met a German Runner as well as the lone New Zealander (unfortunately on her crew car she had the metric conversion of 135 Miles up until then i hadn't given it a thought and frankly didn't want to know).
Next evening met my first crew member Matt, who'd driven in from Yosemite National Park, great being able to put names to faces, now i just had to hope i didn't scare him too much (after all you don't want your crew thinking you're a
raving nut). Get the feeling it was cooler outside the hut than in that night, but still it wasn't only me that would need to be acclimatised and we went for a run to Zabriskie Point the next morning, i was a little worried that as a non Ultra runner i might have pushed him a little too much but i guess sometimes hindsight is a good thing !!. Now to arrange the room swap, having to vacate my cabin and then move into the new, air conditioned motel rooms without having to stand around in the heat.
That afternoon, finally got to meet the rest of my team and the crew vehicle who had flown into Las Vegas and then driven in, quick hello's finally able to move into our spacious, new, air conditioned rooms.
Dinner that night we all got to know each other better and unfortunately realised that i was the one supposed to supply the magnetic race numbers for our vehicles, so it would be a trip back to Pahrump (the nearest town) for them the next day to get spray paint, had this strange feeling i was going to look like the amateur amongst the hardened pros come race time.
Can't remember much of Sunday, relaxing (or trying to) was my main goal, and it was a case of just waiting for the compulsory race briefing. Certainly everything that was needed to be said was said, but by then my mind had only one thought, i just wanted to be out there running everything else was now there (including the 3rd esky provided by race sponsors Coleman). Once this was over it was off for more ice and also to see how everything would pack into the vehicles. Also bought two hand held bottles, an interesting thought having never run with a handheld before, but assured by my crew they would be necessary.
With a 6AM start, was up early, at least i still had plenty of time for my cereal breakfast, although realising i still had one beer left in the fridge (and didn't want things that weren't going to be used during the race taking up room), decided that would do me for pre race liquid intake to wash down my Gatorade.
We were one of the first cars to actual Badwater (282 Feet below sea level) and it gave us time to look around and also to chat with some of the other runners, i'd finally found the other Aussies as well as honorary Aussie Phil, so a few happy snaps and then weigh in.
Still can't believe i weighed in at 155 Lbs, obviously my clothing was heavy ???.
With the sun not yet up, it meant i could run with just the legionnaires cap “scarf” held on by my headband on my head, Lululemon Bike Top, Nike Fitdry shorts, Aldi coolmax socks (all $2 worth !) and the new DS Trainers, eventually i'd need other stuff to keep the heat off me.
A little bit of a talk from race director Chris Kostman and we were off.
Taking it very easily but surprisingly was one of the leaders, my plan had been to run comfortably and within myself but with the lead at stake decided it was worth pushing a little harder, 1.9 miles in and having climbed 80 odd feet, it was time for a drink stop, knew this would be the first of many and to just take it steadily.
6.7 Miles in and the sun was rising, time for the first Succeed Cap of the day, moving along steadily just enjoying the experience still, particularly as we were heading towards Furnace Creek home of the last few days.
Time now to put the Legionnaires Cap and Sunglasses on as well.
I'd actually expected blistering heat, but the storms towards Lone Pine the nights before had meant steamy, muggy weather and i was sweating way more than in training in dry heat, this was worrying as the running shorts were sticking to me badly and i was beginning to chafe, definitely not good this early on (and my pre race Vaseline was showing no signs of helping), by the time i reached Furnace Creek it was time for food, a few Fig Newton Biscuits seemed the way to go as i'd only been on the road 3 hours or so and really wasn't that hungry. Half an hour on and the chafing was beginning to take it's toll on me, certainly i'd run in lots of heat before in these shorts but my sweat levels were something i'd struggle to replicate, so it was on with a fresh pair of Nike Fitdry shorts and as well as bit of a sit down and contemplation.
Back moving again and essentially every mile or so i'd have alternate Gatorade or water, and some simple food like chips or nuts as well as a spray over the head and legs. 23 Miles in and i was ready for a pacer, Matt got me moving along well and took me through the first Marathon for the day, i was feeling good but worried about the chafing and the humidity. 5 Miles on it was Steve O's turn to pace more than anything just having someone out there was comforting as at that point we were still to see other runners.
With vaseline not doing the trick, it was suggested Diaper Cream was the way to go by Steve H, so with inner thighs coated in thick white cream i set off again.
Was surpised to see a bloke come along from the Australian media somewhere at this point, whilst the running was relatively easy getting an interview out of me was a little like pulling teeth but it was good to have some Aussie support.
Nine and a half hours in finally made it to the next civilization Stovepipe Wells, we were now 42 Miles gone and finally back at sealevel, took time to have a break and best of all some fruit salad.
Steve H took over pacing duties here and again we may have had conversations but i think i was too focussed on just making sure i kept moving to recall whether anything deep and meaningful was said!!.
Soon after RD Chris came along and said that our race would have to be rerouted as the storms had washed out the roads between Lone Pine and Keeler, mentally this was a hell of a blow, it looked like we'd have a 131 Mile run but essentially even if i finished i'd be one of those finishers with an asterisk against my name, but on the other hand i also knew that i'd promised myself that last years WS100 was going to be my last ever DNF short of actually dying in a race so simply i was just going to have to live with it as all the runners were in the same boat.
By this point i'd been passed by a few other runners but really hadn't taken much notice (other than Shanna Armstrong's Disco Mobile !!), but finally a familiar face Dean Karnazes, we talked for a couple of miles and never one to show weakness probably ran a little faster to keep up with him, but ultimately sense prevailed and i dropped back a little, however did pass him again as he sat on the kerb and had some blisters attended to, a very short lived victory for me.
A couple of hours after having our route changed was greeted again by Chris with much happier news, Caltrans had fixed our road and sure enough we were back on the real course, that gave me an extra spring in the step.
At last the sun was setting and with Townes Pass obscuring it's setting finally the sting was out of the heat, time to take the cap and sunglasses off, don't really enjoy running in either as it makes me feel too much like i'm wearing blinkers so know i could go and finally run like at home a great feeling.
Just when things were looking up my body was beginning to betray me, with downhill from Townes Pass we had miles of beautiful running ahead of me and simply i couldn't. It was as though i had a rock in my shoe and just couldn't land on my foot as usual. Had a stop and took shoes and socks off and could see nothing and not even a blister, but i could feel it, did this mean i was going to have to walk the last half ???.
At this point without the extreme heat i was also beginning to drink less as i didn't feel like it, but more importantly because every time i drank i felt bloated, numerous stops every couple of miles as i tried to rid my body (from both ends) of excess but i was having no joy.
Often looked behind me at the incredible procession of car headlights as we wound our way through the night, trying to take my mind of how i felt . I'd reached the conclusion i'd get to Panamint Springs and see the doctor there and get my stomach problems sorted as well as changing shoes and socks to make sure i got rid of the none existent stone.
Whilst i couldn't see far to my side, i could hear the animal life that had sprung up in the temporary pools caused by the storms, frogs and other animals last thing you'd expect in these inhospitable climes.
Panamint Springs was one of those places that seemed to be “just around the corner” for an eternity, possibly the fact the roadhouse was the only thing to be seen for miles made it look closer but i was beginning to feel it was moving away from me, funny how the mind works when tired !!.
Finally Panamint Springs (19.5 Hours) and the closest i'd got to a dummy spit all day as i learnt the race doctor was at Stove Pipe Wells, so crook gut and all i promised myself a 30 minute lie down and then shoe change.
The room that had been booked by the organisers was a welcome sight, particularly with aircon going but with bodies sprawled everywhere and much (i'm guessing well deserved) snoring going on i knew sleeping wasn't an option. Found myself a comfortable bit of ground and just lay motionless and sockless for half an hour.
Changed into the New Balance 901's and another pair of Coolmax socks and after trying to sort my gut problems out in a real toilet, headed back out there with a cold “Ensure” drink. Having described my foot problem to my crew and a number of bystanders the conclusion was reached that it was my metatarsal, as luck would have it Matt has metatarsal problems and also had the piece of rubber that acts as a cushion so couldn't do me any more harm than to try that ultimately all this fiddling around had cost me a total of 80 minutes but by now time was not a great issue to me.
Thankfully after this it was uphill, meaning i could take the pressure of the front of my foot, but i was stuffed if i could run on it, though could walk fastish.
Glad to see daylight again, although it meant back to sunscreen and caps and sunglasses etc, at least chafing no longer seemed a problem (plain label Diaper Rash Cream %40 Zinc Oxide a true godsend), 28:35 for the first 100 Miles possibly not quite the speed i wanted but at least it meant only 35 Miles to go.
Looking behind and in front of me another storm cloud buildup, one worrying thought as roads around here are still very easily washed out, only once i made it to Lone Pine would i be sure of a Whitney Portal finish.
At least we were getting some entertainment now from fighter planes flying over from the nearby airforce base, you'd listen for the supersonic boom and then try to spot the plane, Steve H took over my pacing again and whilst previously having a pacer had spurred me on a bit now it was just a case of keeping pace.
Keeler seemed to have the same “Panamint Springs” problem to me, never seemed to get closer, more worryingly i had a fair idea where it was from Lone Pine and those storm clouds were playing mind games (especially watching rain over Mount Whitney).
Finally Lone Pine, it had taken 35:46 to make the last check point at the Dow Inn, at least it meant i could finally get what i had been wanting got hours a chocolate milk shake, even McDonalds here looked tempting !!!.
Turned into Whitney Portal Road and was suddenly emotionally spent, can't explain it, but i'd spent so much time in Lone Pine of late that mentally it felt like i was home and finished, i'm sure my crew were worried as i sat down and just seemed to have a nice quiet nervous breakdown. Would have spent the best part of half an hour in a state of limbo as i tried to get my head around the last stretch, but finally got myself motivated and headed off.
Having driven this road to Mt Whitney, a week or so previously knew exactly every turn and twist so was quite happy to walk steadily and also to speed up when another vehicle kept on our heels, no way known i was going to let anyone pass between me and the finish (even if with different start times ultimately they would beat me).
Had been walking with Steve O and he was happy to keep it up until the end so even got bit of a chat in. With walking up steep hills, decided i didn't mean to drink as often but after telling the crew to go on another mile at one point was disappointed to find more corners than i thought and much longer between stops than i was prepared for.
Nightfall and i had failed my promise to finish in daylight, to be honest i'd never looked at a watch and only occassionally been told the time, a twinge of disappointment but i knew it would be all over soon.
Half a mile to go and the rest of my crew join me and after miles of walking i decide to run, finally 40 Hours, 23 Minutes later it is all over.
After that things are a blur, tired and a bit emotional it really doesnt sink in till the next day, no going for a jog that morning, but on the other hand the joys of bacon and eggs at a diner.
Definitely an experience i'll never forget, but one i'm aiming to improve on in 2009 !!. Freely admit i'm not used to being crewed but this is one time where a crew is not only compulsory but the only way you'll ever finish, i'm just so lucky i ended up with such a great bunch of blokes, whilst i love to Steve H out there running against me this year, i'd like to think the others with still be willing to put up with me again.
After finally run a sub 3 Hour Marathon at my 10th attempt in late 1991, i'd pretty much realised i'd done all i wanted to achieve at that distance and it was time to take on longer challenges, ultimately in the years between then and now i'd run 202 Ultra Marathons although i never claimed that there was anything such as an easy ultra.
I'm getting ahead of myself now, certainly i'd seen footage at times (usually as a filler on the 6:30 news along the lines of “why the hell would you do this ?), of people racing across Death Valley, but it was not until i ran La Transe Gaule across France that i learnt there was actually a race that “normal people” could enter (a couple of other starters had done it and both i had beaten there).
On my return i virtually retired from running (for a whole 5 weeks), i'd achieved what i had set out to do by finishing the run across France and with painful shin splints was both physically and emotionally spent my only motivation being that whatever happened i'd still front up and continue my streak at the Melbourne Marathon, other than that i didn't really care.
However i still had one other Ultra that i'd pre entered the 2007 Western States 100 Miler in June 2007, possibly it would keep me going but frankly the cheaper option was to write off that entry fee and not head to the US, however after a shock sub 3 in the Melbourne Marathon i then rediscovered that zest for running (as my old blog went on about for a couple of months including a couple of wins). Come December 2006 and i'd found out all the details needed to enter the race as well as the fact that entry applications were only open for 3 weeks in January, definitely looked ideal Western States 100 Miler followed up by Badwater 3 weeks later, optimal use of the US trip.
Of course not everything goes to plan, January ended up being the break up in relationship between me and my employer of 23 years Dun & Bradstreet, hard to explain but i'm sure it was similar to a marriage breakdown and quite simply the last thing on my mind those 3 weeks was putting an entry in, me bitter, cynical and at times having incredible mood swings was definitely using running to keep my head above water (and away from booze) but planning a race 6 months away just wasn't in my capabilities at that time (as shown by the fact i finally booked my trip to Western States less than 2 weeks before the event). As this blog shows Western States the race was a complete disaster for me with a cold on arrival on US soil and ultimately dnf'ing for the second time in my career, but there were positives
having 3 weeks before my return home post race it gave me time to enjoy Californian hospitality and also find my way around the state and eventually make it to Death Valley. Whilst i can't claim a day driving and walking around Death Valley made me a local it did however make me realise i had an affinity with the place and simply enjoyed that sort of heat, i'd now discovered what would now be my goal in 2008.
Come January 2008 and as soon as i was able i had my entry application in and was absolutely rapt to be offered a start in February, finally it was going to happen.
That weekend i was in Melbourne doing a race and caught up with another Badwater Starter Brendan Mason so we'd planned sharing some rooms with our crews to save on accommodation costs and with me out the country for 2 weeks (bad timing unfortunately) he'd sort out booking this accommodation whilst i'd email prospective crew members from the BW email list. Whilst in Phuket i managed to get to crew members, both experienced multiple Badwater Crew, Ian Stevens and Steve Ochoa and also a possible 2 others but managing to lose my phone (and therefore internet access) was not able to confirm all this until my return home. Ultimately i picked up another two crew members including Steve Hanes, an experienced 100 Mile runner looking at a start in 2009 and another crew member who ultimately had a job change around Easter and was unable to crew. Come April i'd picked up another very enthusiastic crew member Matt Mundy and i could see things taking shape, now it was just a case of training and racing hard and getting over there in time to acclimatise.
All went to plan and by June 23 i was in Los Angeles and then off to Squaw Valley where i had planned to assist some of the Aussies in this years Western States, again bit of a glitch planwise as the race was called off with bushfires however it did mean i got 3 good days of running in up there as well as a bit of altitude training. Decided to drive home to LA via Death Valley and spent a couple of days there, and also spent much time time sorting out my accommodation both there and in Lone Pine and now Hong Kong Based Brendan was no longer a starter but with bookings in his name and numerous time differences was having a lot of hassles. Two days in Death Valley as well as a hike to the peak of Mount Whitney and decided a few days back in LA for the July 4 long weekend was the way to go, with the plan then to spend the last week back in DV as final acclimatisation.
Sun, surf, live music and beaches with long running paths was the ideal in between break, but with LA barely reaching 80 degrees knew that i'd be heading back to heat once the weekend was over. Still unsure what shoes to wear, i couldn't resist a $77 Pair of ASICS DS Trainers at Sports Chalet, but with still much shopping to do (courtesy of a list from Ian) decided that a couple of days in Las Vegas was the best option, as not only would it be stinking hot, i'd also have mobile phone reception so that i could still talk to my crew just in case there were any purchases we had neglected to think of.
Anybody having read this blog over the last year would know my thoughts on Las Vegas (iredeemably tacky !) but i'll admit massive Walmart stores were a godsend, although i'm not sure what the checkout chicks must have thought as i wheeled out trolley fulls of 50 Cent Quart bottles of Gatorade. Also finally found the ideal legionnaire cap at REI Henderson and mini Clif Bars ultimately essentials as it turned out.
Two nights in Vegas is probably two nights too many so set out happily on the Wednesday to the relative civilization of Furnace Creek. I'd initially planned to camp there until my crew arrived, but in the Visitor Centre was told that the temperature had not dropped below 110 Degrees at night for the last week, remembered just how unervating those sort of night time temperatures were when i was running across the Simpson Desert in 2002 and decided it was worthwhile booking a cabin for a few nights. First night ran the 5 miles to Zabriskie Point just in time for a glorious sunset, dip in a thermal spring heated pool (90 odd degrees) and a cabin, even with an airconditioner, still over 100 degrees.
Next day did Zabriskie Point in the heat and came back via Golden Gully was feeling very confident that the heat wasn't going to be an issue, by now there were a few other runners about and met a German Runner as well as the lone New Zealander (unfortunately on her crew car she had the metric conversion of 135 Miles up until then i hadn't given it a thought and frankly didn't want to know).
Next evening met my first crew member Matt, who'd driven in from Yosemite National Park, great being able to put names to faces, now i just had to hope i didn't scare him too much (after all you don't want your crew thinking you're a
raving nut). Get the feeling it was cooler outside the hut than in that night, but still it wasn't only me that would need to be acclimatised and we went for a run to Zabriskie Point the next morning, i was a little worried that as a non Ultra runner i might have pushed him a little too much but i guess sometimes hindsight is a good thing !!. Now to arrange the room swap, having to vacate my cabin and then move into the new, air conditioned motel rooms without having to stand around in the heat.
That afternoon, finally got to meet the rest of my team and the crew vehicle who had flown into Las Vegas and then driven in, quick hello's finally able to move into our spacious, new, air conditioned rooms.
Dinner that night we all got to know each other better and unfortunately realised that i was the one supposed to supply the magnetic race numbers for our vehicles, so it would be a trip back to Pahrump (the nearest town) for them the next day to get spray paint, had this strange feeling i was going to look like the amateur amongst the hardened pros come race time.
Can't remember much of Sunday, relaxing (or trying to) was my main goal, and it was a case of just waiting for the compulsory race briefing. Certainly everything that was needed to be said was said, but by then my mind had only one thought, i just wanted to be out there running everything else was now there (including the 3rd esky provided by race sponsors Coleman). Once this was over it was off for more ice and also to see how everything would pack into the vehicles. Also bought two hand held bottles, an interesting thought having never run with a handheld before, but assured by my crew they would be necessary.
With a 6AM start, was up early, at least i still had plenty of time for my cereal breakfast, although realising i still had one beer left in the fridge (and didn't want things that weren't going to be used during the race taking up room), decided that would do me for pre race liquid intake to wash down my Gatorade.
We were one of the first cars to actual Badwater (282 Feet below sea level) and it gave us time to look around and also to chat with some of the other runners, i'd finally found the other Aussies as well as honorary Aussie Phil, so a few happy snaps and then weigh in.
Still can't believe i weighed in at 155 Lbs, obviously my clothing was heavy ???.
With the sun not yet up, it meant i could run with just the legionnaires cap “scarf” held on by my headband on my head, Lululemon Bike Top, Nike Fitdry shorts, Aldi coolmax socks (all $2 worth !) and the new DS Trainers, eventually i'd need other stuff to keep the heat off me.
A little bit of a talk from race director Chris Kostman and we were off.
Taking it very easily but surprisingly was one of the leaders, my plan had been to run comfortably and within myself but with the lead at stake decided it was worth pushing a little harder, 1.9 miles in and having climbed 80 odd feet, it was time for a drink stop, knew this would be the first of many and to just take it steadily.
6.7 Miles in and the sun was rising, time for the first Succeed Cap of the day, moving along steadily just enjoying the experience still, particularly as we were heading towards Furnace Creek home of the last few days.
Time now to put the Legionnaires Cap and Sunglasses on as well.
I'd actually expected blistering heat, but the storms towards Lone Pine the nights before had meant steamy, muggy weather and i was sweating way more than in training in dry heat, this was worrying as the running shorts were sticking to me badly and i was beginning to chafe, definitely not good this early on (and my pre race Vaseline was showing no signs of helping), by the time i reached Furnace Creek it was time for food, a few Fig Newton Biscuits seemed the way to go as i'd only been on the road 3 hours or so and really wasn't that hungry. Half an hour on and the chafing was beginning to take it's toll on me, certainly i'd run in lots of heat before in these shorts but my sweat levels were something i'd struggle to replicate, so it was on with a fresh pair of Nike Fitdry shorts and as well as bit of a sit down and contemplation.
Back moving again and essentially every mile or so i'd have alternate Gatorade or water, and some simple food like chips or nuts as well as a spray over the head and legs. 23 Miles in and i was ready for a pacer, Matt got me moving along well and took me through the first Marathon for the day, i was feeling good but worried about the chafing and the humidity. 5 Miles on it was Steve O's turn to pace more than anything just having someone out there was comforting as at that point we were still to see other runners.
With vaseline not doing the trick, it was suggested Diaper Cream was the way to go by Steve H, so with inner thighs coated in thick white cream i set off again.
Was surpised to see a bloke come along from the Australian media somewhere at this point, whilst the running was relatively easy getting an interview out of me was a little like pulling teeth but it was good to have some Aussie support.
Nine and a half hours in finally made it to the next civilization Stovepipe Wells, we were now 42 Miles gone and finally back at sealevel, took time to have a break and best of all some fruit salad.
Steve H took over pacing duties here and again we may have had conversations but i think i was too focussed on just making sure i kept moving to recall whether anything deep and meaningful was said!!.
Soon after RD Chris came along and said that our race would have to be rerouted as the storms had washed out the roads between Lone Pine and Keeler, mentally this was a hell of a blow, it looked like we'd have a 131 Mile run but essentially even if i finished i'd be one of those finishers with an asterisk against my name, but on the other hand i also knew that i'd promised myself that last years WS100 was going to be my last ever DNF short of actually dying in a race so simply i was just going to have to live with it as all the runners were in the same boat.
By this point i'd been passed by a few other runners but really hadn't taken much notice (other than Shanna Armstrong's Disco Mobile !!), but finally a familiar face Dean Karnazes, we talked for a couple of miles and never one to show weakness probably ran a little faster to keep up with him, but ultimately sense prevailed and i dropped back a little, however did pass him again as he sat on the kerb and had some blisters attended to, a very short lived victory for me.
A couple of hours after having our route changed was greeted again by Chris with much happier news, Caltrans had fixed our road and sure enough we were back on the real course, that gave me an extra spring in the step.
At last the sun was setting and with Townes Pass obscuring it's setting finally the sting was out of the heat, time to take the cap and sunglasses off, don't really enjoy running in either as it makes me feel too much like i'm wearing blinkers so know i could go and finally run like at home a great feeling.
Just when things were looking up my body was beginning to betray me, with downhill from Townes Pass we had miles of beautiful running ahead of me and simply i couldn't. It was as though i had a rock in my shoe and just couldn't land on my foot as usual. Had a stop and took shoes and socks off and could see nothing and not even a blister, but i could feel it, did this mean i was going to have to walk the last half ???.
At this point without the extreme heat i was also beginning to drink less as i didn't feel like it, but more importantly because every time i drank i felt bloated, numerous stops every couple of miles as i tried to rid my body (from both ends) of excess but i was having no joy.
Often looked behind me at the incredible procession of car headlights as we wound our way through the night, trying to take my mind of how i felt . I'd reached the conclusion i'd get to Panamint Springs and see the doctor there and get my stomach problems sorted as well as changing shoes and socks to make sure i got rid of the none existent stone.
Whilst i couldn't see far to my side, i could hear the animal life that had sprung up in the temporary pools caused by the storms, frogs and other animals last thing you'd expect in these inhospitable climes.
Panamint Springs was one of those places that seemed to be “just around the corner” for an eternity, possibly the fact the roadhouse was the only thing to be seen for miles made it look closer but i was beginning to feel it was moving away from me, funny how the mind works when tired !!.
Finally Panamint Springs (19.5 Hours) and the closest i'd got to a dummy spit all day as i learnt the race doctor was at Stove Pipe Wells, so crook gut and all i promised myself a 30 minute lie down and then shoe change.
The room that had been booked by the organisers was a welcome sight, particularly with aircon going but with bodies sprawled everywhere and much (i'm guessing well deserved) snoring going on i knew sleeping wasn't an option. Found myself a comfortable bit of ground and just lay motionless and sockless for half an hour.
Changed into the New Balance 901's and another pair of Coolmax socks and after trying to sort my gut problems out in a real toilet, headed back out there with a cold “Ensure” drink. Having described my foot problem to my crew and a number of bystanders the conclusion was reached that it was my metatarsal, as luck would have it Matt has metatarsal problems and also had the piece of rubber that acts as a cushion so couldn't do me any more harm than to try that ultimately all this fiddling around had cost me a total of 80 minutes but by now time was not a great issue to me.
Thankfully after this it was uphill, meaning i could take the pressure of the front of my foot, but i was stuffed if i could run on it, though could walk fastish.
Glad to see daylight again, although it meant back to sunscreen and caps and sunglasses etc, at least chafing no longer seemed a problem (plain label Diaper Rash Cream %40 Zinc Oxide a true godsend), 28:35 for the first 100 Miles possibly not quite the speed i wanted but at least it meant only 35 Miles to go.
Looking behind and in front of me another storm cloud buildup, one worrying thought as roads around here are still very easily washed out, only once i made it to Lone Pine would i be sure of a Whitney Portal finish.
At least we were getting some entertainment now from fighter planes flying over from the nearby airforce base, you'd listen for the supersonic boom and then try to spot the plane, Steve H took over my pacing again and whilst previously having a pacer had spurred me on a bit now it was just a case of keeping pace.
Keeler seemed to have the same “Panamint Springs” problem to me, never seemed to get closer, more worryingly i had a fair idea where it was from Lone Pine and those storm clouds were playing mind games (especially watching rain over Mount Whitney).
Finally Lone Pine, it had taken 35:46 to make the last check point at the Dow Inn, at least it meant i could finally get what i had been wanting got hours a chocolate milk shake, even McDonalds here looked tempting !!!.
Turned into Whitney Portal Road and was suddenly emotionally spent, can't explain it, but i'd spent so much time in Lone Pine of late that mentally it felt like i was home and finished, i'm sure my crew were worried as i sat down and just seemed to have a nice quiet nervous breakdown. Would have spent the best part of half an hour in a state of limbo as i tried to get my head around the last stretch, but finally got myself motivated and headed off.
Having driven this road to Mt Whitney, a week or so previously knew exactly every turn and twist so was quite happy to walk steadily and also to speed up when another vehicle kept on our heels, no way known i was going to let anyone pass between me and the finish (even if with different start times ultimately they would beat me).
Had been walking with Steve O and he was happy to keep it up until the end so even got bit of a chat in. With walking up steep hills, decided i didn't mean to drink as often but after telling the crew to go on another mile at one point was disappointed to find more corners than i thought and much longer between stops than i was prepared for.
Nightfall and i had failed my promise to finish in daylight, to be honest i'd never looked at a watch and only occassionally been told the time, a twinge of disappointment but i knew it would be all over soon.
Half a mile to go and the rest of my crew join me and after miles of walking i decide to run, finally 40 Hours, 23 Minutes later it is all over.
After that things are a blur, tired and a bit emotional it really doesnt sink in till the next day, no going for a jog that morning, but on the other hand the joys of bacon and eggs at a diner.
Definitely an experience i'll never forget, but one i'm aiming to improve on in 2009 !!. Freely admit i'm not used to being crewed but this is one time where a crew is not only compulsory but the only way you'll ever finish, i'm just so lucky i ended up with such a great bunch of blokes, whilst i love to Steve H out there running against me this year, i'd like to think the others with still be willing to put up with me again.
Monday, 15 December 2008
Great way to finish the running year
I think the last blog post sums up the last week or so, the fact that it was written only 7 or so hours before my next race pretty much shows i wasn't happy with my performance at Kepler and took a while to come up with a positivish spin on it.
Simple reason for that Kepler numberwise would be easily one of my biggest Ultras (Six Foot Track, Great Ocean Road Marathon and Western States being the only ones comparable) and whilst i've performed well at the first two over the years, Western States was the infamous DNF (and with harsh provisions for overseas entries now one i'm unlikely to ever avenge) i was looking for big numbers to bring out the best in me (despite having won many a low key, low number race over the years my fastest times have usually been in big events like the Melbourne, Gold Coast and Canberra Marathons where i can usually lift a notch simply because of the crowds and atmosphere) and was realistically looking at somewhere between 6 and 6.5Hrs with under 7 at worst. It was an unexpected bump in what had been a last 8 months year racewise (as for those first 3 months of the year i have only one word "Sciatic Nerve") and just from the point of view of ego 99th place was more like the sort of number i'd be looking for in a 1,000 person or more marathon (whether i'll make it back there for another shot is questionable).
To be honest Kurrawa to Duranbah 50K, had sneaked up on me somewhat, i'd been focussed on finishing the year with Coast to Kosi and it was only in the last month or so that i'd realised that if i was to do Kepler i'd be struggling to get back in time to do it in any sort of shape (to some degree i think of NZ as more of a domestic trip than international and just didn't realise how few flights came back to my airport).
I'd actually only entered the week before but knew at least i'd have a permanent number awaiting me (you get this for 10 starts, Geoff Williams and Geoff Last had got theirs last year, so it was a case of whether me or Peter McKenzie would be No 3 or 4).
Having picked up my number (3) the day before didn't bother leaving home till 4:15 (i could sleep in till 3:30 !!!) and looking at the number of cars about it was easy to see that the 180 runners (solo 50, solo 25 and relay) was true, amazing those sort of numbers and a good sign of a healthy event.
Much different conditions pre race to last week though, certainly no need for a top (number pinned onto my shorts) and my headband was definitely all that was needed on top, really nice looking day although we hadn't managed to get the slightly cooler conditions of Saturday morning (which were as close to as perfect as you could have got in summer for a 50K race), only thing to weigh me down was a baggie of 8 salt tablets definitely could be needed the last half.
Caught up with a few people and had a chat and was probably a little more relaxed than usual pre race (after all this is my backyard so the course held no fears).
Watched some of the rocket like relay runners disappear into the distance (and hoped that none were solo runners) and took off at steady pace, pretty much a procession runners until Nobbys Beach and our first drink station at 5K's. Up the steps (something i always avoid in training runs here) and then along the Burleigh Esplanade, already astir with early risers. By then i was running with a fellow who knew me (and i knew by sight but names aren't my strong point !!) and we ran consistently and chatted. By 10K's it was getting warmer so i had two cups of Endura, for the next few K's i was essentially in my backyard so ran relaxed and fluid (after all how many times had i run along Jefferson Lane ), was thankful for a cup of water at Currumbin as the sun was getting warmer, looked like as usual it would be a real steamy one.
Once we'd got to Tugun i'd felt nicely warmed up and decided it was time to do some chasing down, the bike lane of Golden Four Drive being ideal (although it meant i got more sun than footpath runners as the taller units offered shadows), down Gibson St and onto Pacific Parade always get's awkward as not only us runners were out but other joggers as well as cyclists so was never quite sure if i was chasing people in the event. Two more cups of Endura and finally spotted a familiar figure, Chris Dixon (doing the relay), spurred me on as i remembered how easily he'd passed me at a similar stage in the Melbourne Marathon. He took the pathway through the markets (possible at this point but not on the return as too busy) and i followed catching and passing as we went up the Rainbow Beach hill, feeling good by now.
Heard footsteps on the steep downhill to Duranbah and couldn't resist pushing that little bit harder but once i'd made the flat was happy to let the girl (in relay) pass and settle again for the run back (wasn't sure if i had 2 or 3 solo runners in front as at times i misjudged when to concentrate on race bibs).
Another couple of cups of Endura and washed down a couple of salt tablets and now for the chase, feeling strong but with the fear that i'd seen a solo runner a good couple of K's ahead.
No footsteps behind me and was determined to let as few people (relay and solo) passed as possible on the return, only downside i had yet to spot another runner (i was kidding myself i couldn't see them as i was on the bike lane and they were on the footpath as i headed towards Tugun but that was closer to being a psychological boost than the truth i think. By Currumbin was beginning to feel the heat a little, and was relieved to find the drink station (cup of water over head was more needed than the drink to be honest) and pushed on strongly, first footsteps were as i headed up from 15th Ave to the GCH, tried to go with a relay runner (and again headed onto the road, hard to explain but i race way better on roads than footpaths), but she was too fresh and i resolved to ease down and have a good rehydration at the next drink stop before flogging myself the last 10K's (no aid station at last years 42.5K beer stop so knew i'd have to time it right). Up the GCH Hill and then the Goodwin Tce loop, now it was a case of running hard and dodging crowded walkways was calculating whether i was better off heading off path and using Burleigh Esplanade but recalled being passed in 2002 there and had less than fond memories.
Walked up North Burleigh hill as it gave me time to get the salt tablets out and i was thinking that the only way i could catch solo runners was once we were off the beachfront and i could spot them so it'd be a death or glory last 3K's.
Thankfully the steps down were uncrowded (unusual for this time of day) and even better the last drink stop had Gatorade in cups, the Endura had done it's work but i needed something more refreshing on the palate (albeit lemon/lime) now for the last shot.
Finally spotted a runner (and doubted i'd be catching relay runners) on Albatross Ave and with a breeze (a headwind but nevertheless air movement so rare in this event over the years) had picked him up before reaching Hedges Ave.
By now i could see the buildings near the finiah line and one other runner, i always think of Hedges Ave at this point as the "Cauldron" as usually it's sun beating down and with a skinny street and houses (worth millions) on either side no air reminiscent of a descent into Hell. Headwind or not the breeze was making it almost pleasant, finally spotted a runner doing it hard (i was doing it hard and my left calf was cramping but definitely was not going to show that as i passed) as far as i could work out i was now second. Hit the park and then the long haul to the other end, over the finish line and i was told i'd done 3:57:07, rather disappointing my third slowest performance in 10 starts (although way faster than last years injured 4:32:43), but rather shocked to find i'd won.
Of course at heart i'm not only an Ultra Runner, but a Data Analyst (and shelf stacker !), but looking back at previous results this was definitely my third slowest run here (even allowing that the course prior to 2006 was only 48.4K's).
1998: Second (to new race organiser Peter Hall): 3:37:42
1999: Winner: 3:29:47
2000: Second: 3:38:12
2001: Winner: 3:31:21
2002: Third: 3:35:00
2003: Fourth: 3:59:34
2004: Third: 3:49:07
2006: Fourth (3rd Male): 3:51:43
2007: Eighth: 4:32:43
2008: Winner: 3:57:07
Still trying to work out a conclusion from these (other than i'm getting slower !!!) but still whilst an unexpected win probably one of my best actual race performances for the year, 3 wins for the year so ultimately 2008 hadn't been the writeoff that it had been looking to be back in March (i have reread some of my rather whinging blog posts as sciatic nerve and back problems drove me to distraction and drink at various points early on), reckon i can give the year a 7 out of 10 and have a little break before the new year comes upon us.
Certainly after a year with 3,185 Race Kilometres including 2 Marathons and
23 Ultras shows i've still got a decent career ahead of me, certainly at the moment pretty much uninjured and feeling good i'm looking positively towards 2009.
Simple reason for that Kepler numberwise would be easily one of my biggest Ultras (Six Foot Track, Great Ocean Road Marathon and Western States being the only ones comparable) and whilst i've performed well at the first two over the years, Western States was the infamous DNF (and with harsh provisions for overseas entries now one i'm unlikely to ever avenge) i was looking for big numbers to bring out the best in me (despite having won many a low key, low number race over the years my fastest times have usually been in big events like the Melbourne, Gold Coast and Canberra Marathons where i can usually lift a notch simply because of the crowds and atmosphere) and was realistically looking at somewhere between 6 and 6.5Hrs with under 7 at worst. It was an unexpected bump in what had been a last 8 months year racewise (as for those first 3 months of the year i have only one word "Sciatic Nerve") and just from the point of view of ego 99th place was more like the sort of number i'd be looking for in a 1,000 person or more marathon (whether i'll make it back there for another shot is questionable).
To be honest Kurrawa to Duranbah 50K, had sneaked up on me somewhat, i'd been focussed on finishing the year with Coast to Kosi and it was only in the last month or so that i'd realised that if i was to do Kepler i'd be struggling to get back in time to do it in any sort of shape (to some degree i think of NZ as more of a domestic trip than international and just didn't realise how few flights came back to my airport).
I'd actually only entered the week before but knew at least i'd have a permanent number awaiting me (you get this for 10 starts, Geoff Williams and Geoff Last had got theirs last year, so it was a case of whether me or Peter McKenzie would be No 3 or 4).
Having picked up my number (3) the day before didn't bother leaving home till 4:15 (i could sleep in till 3:30 !!!) and looking at the number of cars about it was easy to see that the 180 runners (solo 50, solo 25 and relay) was true, amazing those sort of numbers and a good sign of a healthy event.
Much different conditions pre race to last week though, certainly no need for a top (number pinned onto my shorts) and my headband was definitely all that was needed on top, really nice looking day although we hadn't managed to get the slightly cooler conditions of Saturday morning (which were as close to as perfect as you could have got in summer for a 50K race), only thing to weigh me down was a baggie of 8 salt tablets definitely could be needed the last half.
Caught up with a few people and had a chat and was probably a little more relaxed than usual pre race (after all this is my backyard so the course held no fears).
Watched some of the rocket like relay runners disappear into the distance (and hoped that none were solo runners) and took off at steady pace, pretty much a procession runners until Nobbys Beach and our first drink station at 5K's. Up the steps (something i always avoid in training runs here) and then along the Burleigh Esplanade, already astir with early risers. By then i was running with a fellow who knew me (and i knew by sight but names aren't my strong point !!) and we ran consistently and chatted. By 10K's it was getting warmer so i had two cups of Endura, for the next few K's i was essentially in my backyard so ran relaxed and fluid (after all how many times had i run along Jefferson Lane ), was thankful for a cup of water at Currumbin as the sun was getting warmer, looked like as usual it would be a real steamy one.
Once we'd got to Tugun i'd felt nicely warmed up and decided it was time to do some chasing down, the bike lane of Golden Four Drive being ideal (although it meant i got more sun than footpath runners as the taller units offered shadows), down Gibson St and onto Pacific Parade always get's awkward as not only us runners were out but other joggers as well as cyclists so was never quite sure if i was chasing people in the event. Two more cups of Endura and finally spotted a familiar figure, Chris Dixon (doing the relay), spurred me on as i remembered how easily he'd passed me at a similar stage in the Melbourne Marathon. He took the pathway through the markets (possible at this point but not on the return as too busy) and i followed catching and passing as we went up the Rainbow Beach hill, feeling good by now.
Heard footsteps on the steep downhill to Duranbah and couldn't resist pushing that little bit harder but once i'd made the flat was happy to let the girl (in relay) pass and settle again for the run back (wasn't sure if i had 2 or 3 solo runners in front as at times i misjudged when to concentrate on race bibs).
Another couple of cups of Endura and washed down a couple of salt tablets and now for the chase, feeling strong but with the fear that i'd seen a solo runner a good couple of K's ahead.
No footsteps behind me and was determined to let as few people (relay and solo) passed as possible on the return, only downside i had yet to spot another runner (i was kidding myself i couldn't see them as i was on the bike lane and they were on the footpath as i headed towards Tugun but that was closer to being a psychological boost than the truth i think. By Currumbin was beginning to feel the heat a little, and was relieved to find the drink station (cup of water over head was more needed than the drink to be honest) and pushed on strongly, first footsteps were as i headed up from 15th Ave to the GCH, tried to go with a relay runner (and again headed onto the road, hard to explain but i race way better on roads than footpaths), but she was too fresh and i resolved to ease down and have a good rehydration at the next drink stop before flogging myself the last 10K's (no aid station at last years 42.5K beer stop so knew i'd have to time it right). Up the GCH Hill and then the Goodwin Tce loop, now it was a case of running hard and dodging crowded walkways was calculating whether i was better off heading off path and using Burleigh Esplanade but recalled being passed in 2002 there and had less than fond memories.
Walked up North Burleigh hill as it gave me time to get the salt tablets out and i was thinking that the only way i could catch solo runners was once we were off the beachfront and i could spot them so it'd be a death or glory last 3K's.
Thankfully the steps down were uncrowded (unusual for this time of day) and even better the last drink stop had Gatorade in cups, the Endura had done it's work but i needed something more refreshing on the palate (albeit lemon/lime) now for the last shot.
Finally spotted a runner (and doubted i'd be catching relay runners) on Albatross Ave and with a breeze (a headwind but nevertheless air movement so rare in this event over the years) had picked him up before reaching Hedges Ave.
By now i could see the buildings near the finiah line and one other runner, i always think of Hedges Ave at this point as the "Cauldron" as usually it's sun beating down and with a skinny street and houses (worth millions) on either side no air reminiscent of a descent into Hell. Headwind or not the breeze was making it almost pleasant, finally spotted a runner doing it hard (i was doing it hard and my left calf was cramping but definitely was not going to show that as i passed) as far as i could work out i was now second. Hit the park and then the long haul to the other end, over the finish line and i was told i'd done 3:57:07, rather disappointing my third slowest performance in 10 starts (although way faster than last years injured 4:32:43), but rather shocked to find i'd won.
Of course at heart i'm not only an Ultra Runner, but a Data Analyst (and shelf stacker !), but looking back at previous results this was definitely my third slowest run here (even allowing that the course prior to 2006 was only 48.4K's).
1998: Second (to new race organiser Peter Hall): 3:37:42
1999: Winner: 3:29:47
2000: Second: 3:38:12
2001: Winner: 3:31:21
2002: Third: 3:35:00
2003: Fourth: 3:59:34
2004: Third: 3:49:07
2006: Fourth (3rd Male): 3:51:43
2007: Eighth: 4:32:43
2008: Winner: 3:57:07
Still trying to work out a conclusion from these (other than i'm getting slower !!!) but still whilst an unexpected win probably one of my best actual race performances for the year, 3 wins for the year so ultimately 2008 hadn't been the writeoff that it had been looking to be back in March (i have reread some of my rather whinging blog posts as sciatic nerve and back problems drove me to distraction and drink at various points early on), reckon i can give the year a 7 out of 10 and have a little break before the new year comes upon us.
Certainly after a year with 3,185 Race Kilometres including 2 Marathons and
23 Ultras shows i've still got a decent career ahead of me, certainly at the moment pretty much uninjured and feeling good i'm looking positively towards 2009.
Wednesday, 10 December 2008
Kepler - the race
A late Tuesday afternoon flight to Christchurch meant i could casually wander down to the airport and my next step would be onto overseas soil, not often you can do that !!. With a flight of just over 3 hours it was barely a longer trip than to Melbourne with the wind against us (a regular occurence), half empty plane and i was lucky to have 3 seats all to myself shame it was too early to lie down and have a nap !.
With time differences (+3 hours) arrived in Christchurch just before midnight but having to go through customs (and getting my muddy Free 4.0's washed as i'd be running in them) meant it was tomorrow before we (me and fellow Gold Coast Runners Peter Hall and his wife Leanne) picked up the hire car and headed off to the hotel in downtown Christchurch (easy to get to except the Rememberance Arch and pedestrian mall meant a few extra turns than expected (some of my better navigating).
The plan being to meet up at 8 and then drive down to Te Anau, by the time i'd eaten dinner (a couple of sandwiches i'd made at home and really didn't feel like on the plane) it was well after 1 and more tired than i thought i woke at 7:55 !!, so pretty much out of bed, repack and down to the car (so much for thoughts of a run in the city !).
Having successfully navigated out the city it was then the long drive south, mutton pie and cappucino (note to self never again say yes to chocolate on NZ Cappucino felt like i had to eat a block of chocolate before i made it to the actual coffee !) and then stocked up on groceries at a town along the way. Lovely scenery, alot of it reminding me of the Princes Hwy on the way down to Portland, as expected lot's of sheep and many green fields (have never seen so much irrigation though this seemed strange as it was looking quiet wet !!) strangely also saw some signs warning of wallabies (never saw any though).
By 4 we'd made it to Te Anau i was staying in a cabin a couple of K's out of town with a glorious view out my back window (3rd picture down) of the lake and the surrounding mountains. With a bit of rain in the air and a chill in the breeze
have to admit i was feeling the sort of cold i hadn't experienced since moving north, was only thankful i had a couple of days to acclimatize.
Certainly got colder once night fell (10 PM !) and was actually woken by the cold at around 6AM (this sleeping bag had been used by me in below zero mornings in German sports halls, surely it wasn't that cold !) so seeing rain it was on with the skins and a jumper and back to bed !!.
Had a better look around the town on the Thursday and, if not for the weather, an idyllic place bumping into Peter and Leanne at the info centre and joining them for lunch and organised a bit of a training run on the course the following day.
Later got in an hours running, certainly warm clothing was going to be an essential part of this event.
Friday morning we did the last 10K's of the course from Rainbow Reach, perfect track for running on, wide and soft underfoot, the Free's were definitely going to be my shoe of choice (they'd taken two days to dry after being washed in customs so was very careful to keep them dry the day before the race).
Picked up my number and race pack and returned later in the day for the race briefing, just how a race briefing should be, short, bit of humour and to the point so getting a lift home was ready for bed at 8:30 having set the alarm for 4.
Only wish i had brought my mixing bowl breakfast bowl as it meant i was having 2 to 3 bowls of cereal (NZ Hubbard Muesli, cornflakes concoction - quiet tasty) every time, still the important thing was having it.
My plan had been to run with my bike top and Moeben sleeves, with gloves on and using the bandanna "Beanie style" but once checked in just realised how cold it was so one thermal top as well as the Goretex jacket came out of my camelbak (bladderless this was one race i wouldn't need extra water) and were put on.
Managed to catch up with some other Aussies and the very low key start took me by surprise, was nowhere near the 7 hour pace time was actually positioned somewhere near the back of the field !!!.
First 5K's was pretty much spent passing runners and walkers whilst going at a very gentle pace (was bemused to see a couple of runners heading back towards me, apparently they had forgotten some of their compulsory gear and were heading back to pick it up), but reckoned this was a good way to start as it would, in theory, leave plenty in the tank for the easy last half.
Once out of the tree line, beautiful clear skies awaited us, only problem clear skies mean real cold and the breeze of surrounding snow capped peaks meant that even three topped and gloved i was damned cold. Finally made it to the hut and the gear check was just thankful there were no long queues and standing around, a couple of cups of leppin and i was ready to go.
The next stage of the run was basically a single file of runners at easy pace, giving me some time to enjoy the scenery, simply didn't feel as though the frozen legs really wanted to be pushed at this point. Sadly the cold was getting to me and i had quite a headache and was wondering whether the thermal beanie was a better option but never quite made that change (the Buff Bandanna had done such a good job on cold morning in France it was virtually my security blanket !!).
Finally we headed off the ridgelines and headed back into trees, by then i'd passed a few runners (helped by a one drink no food stop at the last aid station) and it was simple downhill running. I'd be honest and say i wasn't as sure on my feet on these foreign trails as i would be at home so went down rather more gently than usual, although was only passed by one way more daredevil runner.
At this point we were still running virtually in groups, can't really expplain why but simply you'd find a comfortable pace and just stay on it.
Had a good feed at Iris Burn Hut (nearly half way) and my plan was to then really push out as my legs should still have been really fresh. Unfortunately no one had told my legs this, not sure if the cold up top had just made the muscles too cold or what but the legs had simply lost their usual bounce and anything vaguely uphill reduced me to a walk.
Eventually we made it to parts of track under the sun (as opposed to under trees) and i was beginning to wonder whether all the layers of clothing were making me sweat too much and this was effecting me.
So 26K's to go it was off with the thermal top, the goretex jacket and the gloves and pop a couple of salt tablets, a little better but still was struggling (and it was still coolish - wasn't rolling the Moeben sleeves down). Had a vague idea where i was place wise as had heard the woman i was running with was 14th (should make me around 120 to 140th by my calcs) so was pretty much hanging on, looking for a second wind to at least get top 100.
Next aid station was my last roll of the dice, a couple of quarters of orange sometimes inexplicably a great aid. Finally was getting running consistently though not fast and just waiting to get to Rainbow Ridge (and in theory the easy familiar part). Couple of Leppins there and seemed to finally get my act together, not fast but consistently passing runners and no walking. One mistake at the last aid station grabbed a cup and drank it, unfortunately it was jelly beans, still not far to go so not a great issue. Finally the finish line in sight and i could stop.
Thankful i didn't realise the time (7:20:57) as i'd been confident of something between 6 and 7 hours (was only on seeing the full results i realised how i'd just sneaked into the top 100 99th place).
Absolutely stuffed post race, the complimentary orange juice washed down by the complimentary beer at the end were absolute saviours and for the first time since about 5K's i was feeling pretty good, wandered back to the car as i was sure Peter (and Leanne who was doing the Luxmore Grunt) would have well and truly been finished by now. Beautiful sunny day by now, much better than the weather had indicated in the previous few days, we were definitely lucky.
Wandered back and had a feed and caught up with some of the much better performed Aussies.
Despite this run being only somewhere between 61.2K's (official distance) and 58.6K's (Garmin measured distance) it was damned tough, probably more due to the fact i don't handle the cold well.
Next day (after 10 hour sleep - maybe my body was telling me something), wandered into town for the presentations and was lucky enough to win a spot prize (although the question has to be asked when i'll get to use my Milford Sound boat trip !), after that fish and chips and a leisurely lakeside walk.
That evening was reminded just how lucky we had been weatherwise with heavy rain which continued unabated till morning (goretex jacket and waterproof pants not usually what i'd wear to wander the 100 yards to the ablutions block !!).
This weather followed us all the way north back to Christchurch (picturesque Queenstown being essentially shrouded in fog and sleet i believe it has mountains !!).
Arriving back early evening in Christchurch did mean i would get a look around the town this time, and was fortunate to find a Pub with live music that night (acoustic guitar playing vocalist nice relaxing way to spend the night) and not being tired went for a walk of the block (3 or 4 miles) before bed.
One last chance of a run in town so that morning memorised the street map and headed towards the Gondola, by signs this was around 12K's (plus a little as had to avoid freeways) but with murky weather heading to the top wasn't going to be an option (and having worn a watch so i'd be back in time for a shower before checking out wasn't likely timewise), so headed back in time for breakfast and a shower before 10AM checkout.
With a few hours to kill before the flight out, went for a walk around town but again rain dogged us and eventually ended up in the the Canterbury Museum, so yes i did see plenty of Kiwis and Moas and all the unique birdlife although unfortunately only stuffed !).
First time i'd ever paid to leave a country ($25 Departure Tax) and then a quick (tailwind got us back 25 minutes early), flight home, actually it all went so smoothly i forgot to change my money at the airport (rather embarassing in the supermarket the next day).
A 3 hour run on Thursday, showed me that the Kepler legs were only a small blip and 90 minutes this morning makes me confident of a good 50K's tomorrow http://www.goldcoast100.com/K2D/home.html in the Kurrawa to Duranbah and return, my 10th start there. Not sure of the weather though, going by recent rain we may actually get good coolish conditions rather than the usual humid, mobile sauna conditions.
Monday, 1 December 2008
Training too hard now for a relaxing flight to New Zealand
Not much to talk about racewise since my last post, but seeing i head off to New Zealand for the Kepler Challenge on the 6th of December, doubt i'll be updating the blog till i return.
Very hard week training wise, unfortunately there are times when simply i forget that most of my career has been based on training runs of 2.5 to 3 Hours with no drink stops and just pure hard running and also simply that much of this has been in somewhat cooler climes than the Gold Coast (particularly in the recent very humid conditions we've had when it hasn't been raining !!).
Long runs Thursday and Saturday and both times was feeling too good when i got to my usual turnaround point unfortunately both times i was struggling by the end and even needed a drink of water (and dip under a beach shower) with still a couple of miles to go. I guess pushing it too hard is always better than training too easy but nevertheless i do have the odd feeling of mortality when i push it that hard. A litre of cordial and water mixture goes down so well when i get home it isn't funny, but really it takes a good couple of hours before i'm back in any sort of shape (interesting when i went off to work on the Thursday arvo !!!).
Decided to take it easier on Sunday and ended up doing a relatively easy 15K's with the Gold Coast Road Runners Club (having slept in had to drive there which worked out well as sausages and eggs for breakfast there would have been an interesting run back).
Today was desperate for one last hard run, but wanted to give myself the option of shortening it if i felt knackered, so dug out my old "Mt Woodgee" loop meaning i'd do the hard K or so uphill and then cruise around the Currumbin Beachfront and enjoy the beautiful sunny day before heading up my "hill from hell" again.
Seven laps was quite sufficient, was still feeling strong so decided was best to do an easy lap back to my bit of beach and a swim, looks like i picked it nicely today, 16K's of the loop as well as 4K's there and 5K's home seemed just what i needed today.
Not sure if i'll get a chance for a run tomorrow, but seeing i get to Te Anau on Wednesday i'd like to think i could do some trails around the Kepler course before Saturdays race.
Unfortunately not being able to get back to the Coast before the Tuesday evening means i've had to rule out a Coast to Kosi start (with a 15 to 20 Hour drive to the start at Eden really question whether i'd have run my race beforehand, think i really needed a QLD based crew so i could have had a good rest in the car rather than being stuck behind the steering wheel), i do feel it's really a bit of waste considering my fitness at the moment, whilst i wouldn't have been giving Tim Cochrane's record a shake i'm confident i'd have been well under my 39 Hours of 2005, still even i can't be everywhere.
Looks like the month of Magnesium supplement seems to have done me alot of good as i'm definitely recovering well and (unrelated i'm sure !! have had no back problems), however i have been happy to have the odd beer or wine in recent times after all we've only got one life and being permanently alcohol free has never been an option for me as for me it's always been part of a happy, well rounded life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
