2013 A Review

2013's Booty

2013 started with my first ever Ultra race. I had previously ran 44 miles sweeping the NDW50/100. My first ultra race was the Go Beyond Thames Trot 50. Unfortunately due to heavy rains leading up to the race, it had to be rerouted due to flooding on the Thames. Michael Sartorius buddied me on this race, dragging my backside round the now 44 mile course in 8hrs59.

The following weekend I helped my friend Beccie Van Ostrum to her first sub 2 half at the Wokingham Half Marathon.

The 3rd of March was my first DNS. Way to ill to attend the Silverstone Half Marathon, I stayed in my pit.

17th March was the Fleet Half Marathon. A nice local event. After a Garmin failure, I got my sorry backside around in 1.57. 

23rd March and I was back on the Thames, this time sweeping 38 miles of the Thames Path 100. Again the Thames had flooded and the race started in light snow. A good course recce and where I meet Sian Lewis.

31st March was the Stroke Association 15km, it was also the first anniversary of Run for Fun.

14th April and a return to marathon running. This time the Brighton Marathon. A mixed weather day, starting cold and finishing sunburnt. 

21st April and my first world major marathon, the Virgin London Marathon. Another beautiful day, but on tired legs, wasn't the success I hoped for. The atmosphere was amazing and enjoyed meeting up with fellow rffs at the start and finish!!

18th May and it was time to put some demons to bed on the Centurion Running North Downs Way 50 ultra. I ran the race with Martin Bushell, a lot of the time having a good laugh, it's surprising how easy hills are when giggling over Monty Python sketches!! We got to the 44 mile aid station in just under 10hours. This is where I stopped in 2012. It took a further 3 hours to cover the next seven miles, but job done!!

The following week, and I was up in Edinburgh for the EMF weekend. Running the 10k on the Saturday. It was roasting! Not what I was expecting in Scotland. The route also went up that bloody volcano! After a wonderful meal with many rffs, Sundays marathon arrived. I started running with Chris Murray, but just up to halfway, my legs finally rebelled and completed the marathon in just over 5 hours. Not bad considering they had done 50 miles the weekend before, plus the 10k on the Saturday. It was great to spend so much time with runners who have become good friends. It was also awesome to run the final mile of Maureen Murray's first marathon at the youthful age of 68!

5th June was the first of the three race series, Yateley 10kms. With all the long distance stuff, my legs struggled to cover the short distance.

8th June was the very tough but enjoyable South Downs Marathon. A case of maybe to fast start lead to a slow visit. Crossing over the halfway point in just over two hours. The ascents and descents had killed the legs, crossing the line in 5.44

22nd/23rd June was my first ever 12 hour event. The Brutal Enduro. The race started at 9pm and was 10km of muddy hilly terrain. Living upto it's name, Brutal. I ended up with bad stomach cramps during the night in the rain, covering 50km.

3rd July was race two of the Yateley 10km, a little quicker than the month before, but nothing great.

13th July, the big one, my longest race to date, the 100km Race to the Stones. The weather had been warm upto the weekend of the race, it didn't stop there. Saturday saw the mercury top 35c. Not the heat you want for 100km non stop. After the first 20km the heat did start to get to me. I did however bump into Mark Griffiths, the luna sandal runner I had seen at the NDW50. We spent along time together. At 50km I was close to heat exhaustion. Some time spent at the aid station sorted that out. After around 65km I got running again, until tiredness caught up, I walked in with the double Olympic medalist Alex Partridge and his friend Tom! A whopping 21hrs15 to cover 65miles.

21st July and I was back in the Olympic stadium running the national lottery anniversary 5 miles. A massive 80 rffs were also there. My feet hadn't recovered from the previous weekends efforts and were still swollen. I did however cross the line with two running buddies Chris Murray and So Nic. It was fantastic to finish the race in the stadium knowing my mum, brother, and his partner Alison were in the stadium, Fay my wife was running the course behind me!

27th/28th Thunder Run 24hrs. A Rff team of four including Carrie Morpeth, Sharon Parkin and Michelle Iddon. Another 10km loop to continually run as a relay in my team of four. It was also an unofficial hen do for Carrie. The weather lived up to its name in the evening with a large thunder storm and heavy rain. We were camped up next to the team Enigma. Much fun was had. A Glastonbury for runners!

7th August was the final Yateley 10k, the series completed again.

10th August and back on the NDW. Michael Sartorius and myself sweeping the second 50 of this course. Starting at 9pm. Struggling again on tired legs, after the marathon distance at the bottom of Detling Hill, I let Michael keep his sweeping legend status as I missed out a few miles, running the final 6 miles with Michael. A good course recce and getting used to running in the dark.

8th Sept and the return of the marathons. The much loved Bacchus Marathon. Two lops of a course around Denbies Vineyard. Wine at every aid station which was around every two miles! A great race all about fun!

The following week was my local marathon. The tough Farnham Pilgrims Marathon. A route out to St Martha's on the hill in Guildford, then looping back, mainly on the NDW. A beautiful stunning route. Struggled near the end as I got my fuelling wrong.

29th Sept World major number two, the BMW Berlin Marathon. A completely awesome weekend spent in Berlin. A pb on the course that the marathon works record also fell a few hours before me. Enjoying evenings out with Hannah, Mark, Lucy, Hannah's mum, Shari, Nigel, Mia, Terry, Steve, Mo, Shauna, Mel, Mel's hubby and my wife. Loved it.

6th Oct and the brand new Bournemouth Marathon. A very hot day and tired pb legs I decided to help a fellow runner finish. I was struggling after the first few hills, and around mike 16 linked up with Mo and Rachel. We enjoyed ice lollies in the warm October sun. It was all about getting the job done!

27th Oct was the Bupa Great South. I've ran this four years running. This year I didn't enjoy it. A well supported race in what was very windy weather.

8th/9th/10th Nov The Druids Challenge. A tough race ran along the ridgeway. Day one was the longest of the days. 30 miles of constant wind rain and mud, crossing day ones finish line in 7hours. After a good start on day two, I eventually DNFd at 16 miles, cold wet and injured. It was game over.

1st Dec and the local mud fest, The Grim. 8 miles of mud and water on the military vehicle testing area. This race is all about fun and mud!

14th/15th Dec my first ever double. The Enigma Christmas Double. I had been looking forward to this race for a long time. Not just the challenge of two marathons in two days, but the social side of it. Fellow rffs Brenda, Kelly, Nikki, Mo, Carrie, Chris, May and Jo were running it. Support from race organiser Foxy and race director Karen. Plus support from Anjie, Sarah, Rebekah and Lorraine. Also other running friends Dawn, Kate, Stefan, Emily and Emnett were also there. 7 laps per marathon on Caldecotte lake. A third fastest marathon on day one was followed by a few second marathon dressed as a Mexican. A few pbs thrown in by Brenda and Stefan. Nikki ran her second bad third marathons!

The final race of 2013, the Gutbuster. 10 miles of mud abc a ford crossing in Mortimer. I loved it! Finishing with a lovely medal, mulled wine and mince pies. It really was the cherry on the cake for 2013!!

Happy New Year, bring on 2014

The Druids Challenge and my first DNF

The Druids Challenge is a multi day event hosted by www.xnrg.co.uk It's three days out on the ancient trail The Ridgeway. Day one starts at Ivinghoe Beacon. It's the longest of the three days at 30 miles finishing Day one at Watlington. Day two is a little shorter at 27 miles, carrying on from Watlington to Wantage. Day three is a 28 mile stretch from Wantage to the finish at Wroughton. Covering 84/85 miles. What is really appealing about the race and the reason I decided to enter was, part of the cost was the overnight accommodation in a School hall and a leisure centre the second night. The chance to spend time with other runners not just out on the trails, but to socialise in normal clothes. Also, as a lot of runners who take on this challenge are running the MDS, they have somebody talking on both nights about their experiences of the MDS. A runners weekend where we can talk endlessly about running and not get the roll of the eyes non running friends give.

After a few failed attempts at convincing a friend to join me (That'll be you Michael) I decided to jump in and go for it. I knew it would test my abilities, mainly my recovery. After doing some research, mainly on what to do for recovery, I bought myself some decent recovery compression skins and compression calf guards. Also a lovely eye mask and ear plugs. 

I soon found out after checking the names on the start list that Stefan Klincewicz was also running the event in preparation for the MDS. My new font of knowledge! I met Stefan at a local 10k but we recognised each other from the NDW50. Stefan only lives in the next town, so I now had a buddy. (Not needed now Michael). I tapped Stefan up for information about transport. He recommended the train. So train it was. By luck rather than design, we actually meet up at Clapham Junction on Day one. Also meeting with first time ultra runner Pawel Taterek. Although after talking to him on the train, he is no plodder! 

After what seemed a short train journey we were at Tring station and being picked up by the mini bus the organisers had put on for us. Taking us up to a local farm just below Ivinghoe Beacon. It was here the first nerves set in. This wasn't my first ultra, and I have completed several this year prior to this one, but I felt out of place. No reason to be though, the ultra running community is very open and friendly. I was made to feel welcome very quickly. 

We collected our numbers, I was number 13 for the weekend. I was determined to prove it was a lucky number, but as the title says, I failed at that! We all grab a hot drink and set about sorting our kit. Stefan and myself were setting off at 1100 in the main running pack, the walkers were setting off at 10 and Pawel was in the fast buggers setting off at midday. It wasn't long until we had to drop our kit bags off at the vans and make our way to the mini buses which will take us up to Ivinghoe Beacon. 

The weather up to this point had been ok, but the forecast wasn't the best. Saturday looking the worst, Friday and Sunday should be ok. We collectively made the short walk to the top of Ivinghoe Beacon, in the rain! After a short race brief, Neil Thurbon, the race director let us go. We were off. All of us trying to take the downhill running carefully as the chalk in the ground is like ice when wet. The weather had set in, and would stay for the day.

The day was pretty uneventful for me. The route is stunning but there was a lot of head down running to constantly keep an eye on my footing. The weather never really let up, tights weren't a good choice and the water proof jacket wasn't as water proof as hoped. As the darkness drew in I was starting to feel cold and got my buff and hat on. At the last aid station the head torch came out and I was feeling a little low. I was soaked and was wondering what had I started. It wasn't long after leaving that aid station that Nicky Chrascina and Danny De la Hey. They kindly gave me company and we ran to the finish of day one together in a time of 7hrs25. Thank you guys! 

After locating my bag and getting my bed sorted, time to hit the showers. Although once I got there I realised I forgot my towel and had to walk back. Not what you need after doing 30 miles. Once clean and wearing the new compression clothing I was eager to hit the pub, which was next door. My team Coventry were playing AFC Wimbledon in the FA Cup on live tv. Typically though, it was a rather lovely old pub. So bangers and mash was ordered with a Guinness and a diet coke. Stefan and Pawel came too along with Jeremy Isaac and a couple who's names I have forgotten. Sorry. Jeremy had some very interesting stories to tell of his experiences running MDS. Even about the best way to have a poo, I shit you not. The food and the Guinness were the perfect remedy for a long day on the trails and I was ready for bed. 

Day two arrived and I felt like I hadn't slept. Although the compression gear had worked a treat. After a good breakfast I got my kit together and loaded it on to the van. I was off at 7 with the walkers after having a slower day than expected. The weather was rather nice and a bonus. Although it was predicted to change back to wind and rain. After the race brief, I set off with Nicky and Danny. Considering it wasn't long since breakfast we were already discussing roast dinners. As you do. If runners aren't talking about running, it's likely to be food. We decided to make good while the weather was good and started to run everything except the hills. It didn't take long to get to the aid station and get some grub in. I had started to notice a niggle on my left knee. It wasn't a race stopping niggle but I was a little concerned by it. We soon set off downhill and were making good time, although the knee wasn't good. Unfortunately due to the weather the day before, the course was muddy. Although in trail shoes I was struggling with my footings in the trees. After a few several misplaced steps I had to walk. I had already dropped back from Nicky and Danny and thankfully they had carried on. I didn't want to burden myself on them. Sorry guys. 

I decided to take stock of my situation and get some food on. I was worried, my first real thoughts of a DNF. Then the rain came. I pushed on, but I was getting cold, I had sweated under my waterproof and the wind was now making that moisture cold. Wearing tights had led to chafing, despite the body glide. I was struggling. I was only around ten miles in. My knee was throbbing and I wanted to sit down somewhere warm. But I'm stubborn. I decide to attempt to push on walking. I can do 15 min miles, I'll get day two done and reset for day three. It wasn't going to happen. Over the next few miles crossing fields to North Stoke I struggled to get to 3mph. The ground was soaked and I just couldn't get the purchase to move forward quickly. This wasn't a problem, the problem was I wasn't generating enough heat. I was getting cold and soaked. This was bad. After much talking to myself I decided to make the decision to drop at the next aid station. I was cold and soaked and my left knee was throbbing.

2013 Druids Challenge was over for me. I will be back!

Race to the Stones

Saturday 13th July 100km

www.racetothestones.com

After deciding to stay in Chinnor, Oxfordshire rather then drive to the start of the race from home, myself along with Fay and running partner Fi had to find breakfast. The only place we could find open early enough, was Tesco. After purchasing some pastries we drove the short distance to the first running of the Race to the Stones 100km Ultra, organised by Threshold Events. 

The race was organised in a way that you could enter for the non stop 100km, the two day 100km with an over night stop, one day of 50km or the other. It was also open for people to walk. I chose the non stop! 

The route followers the ancient Ridgeway trail. Not the full length, so the race starts from Chinnor, Oxfordshire and ends at Avebury Stones, Wiltshire. Hence the name, Race to the Stones! Clever.

The week building up to the event had been glorious, weather wise. Saturday promised to be the same, if not hotter.

It was already feeling warm at the start line. 

A last final brief from the race director and we were unleashed. 

Immediately we were making our way up a short hill, this is where we actually join the Ridgeway. The terrain was mainly packed hard dirt. With the occasional slowing and walking as we bunched up in narrow sections, it wasn't to long until we were spread out nicely. The weather was good and the views were enjoyable. 

The aid stations were set apart at roughly 10km intervals. It didn't seem to long until I was passing under the M40 motorway and heading to the first aid station. I was already becoming aware that it was rather warm out. I hadn't set off at a quick pace, more a conservative one. Just before arriving at the first aid station I emptied one of my bottles. I had 500ml of water in it, and I had drained it in 6 miles!! I was also sweating a fair bit. Thankfully I had purchased a new running vest, The Salomon S-Lab vest. I had also bought to new 750ml water bottles. One had 500ml of water, the other 500ml of Pink Lemonade Nuun electrolytes. I was glad to have them.

Arriving at the first aid station we all had to wash our hands with alcohol gel. This was a first. They had flap jackets and other cakes, so it was nice to know people had clean hands. I opted to just top up my water and grabbed a few bite size caramels. 

Back on the trails and the course started to get a little undulating. With the temperature still rising I opted to walk the up hills. Something I was glad I did as a few of them were short and sharp. 

I did have a goal time in mind for this race. Something I thought possible after completing the NDW50. I became aware over this next 10km that the day was going to be about heat management. This put my preconceived time in jeopardy.

Not long before the 20km aid station, you have to cross through a stunning field of Rapeseed. Maybe not good if you have hay fever, which I don't! Thankfully there was a photographer stationed the other side to get that wonderful shot as you came through the field. 

At the second aid station, this was the point you could pick up your packed lunch. Only being 20km I declined mine, but did pack up a packet of pop-chips. I also decided to water my cap to help cool down, but all this did was wash sweat into my eyes. I had to spend the next five minutes washing my eyes out.

I set off out of CP2 munching on my pop-chips in the shade of the trees we were in. It was only a few moments later that my running friend Fi past by. She was looking good considering the heat and her Irish skin! I decided on a run walk philosophy as it was now getting to hot to run continually and I was starting to have concerns over my fluid amounts. A lot had already gone in over 20km+, and a fair bit had sweated out. I was glad to be using the Succeed caps taking one every hour at this point. 

I was having a good time on my own on the trails, passing many people out walking and admiring the countryside. Until I got stuck by a wasp! First time in years I had been stung by a wasp. Even after stinging me, it was hanging around and I ran off screeching like a five year old girl, until I caught up with some fellow runners, where I decided to try and play it cool.

Eventually, one of the points I knew was approaching. The crossing of the A4074 Reading to Oxford road. I've ran here a few times, so it was nice to be in a familiar area. I was also aware that I was getting some hot spots on my feet, so after finding a nice place to sit down, I decided a sock change would be good and some more liberal application of Vaseline.

Just after getting my shoes back on, a familiar face, well feet, went past. I'd seen those Luna sandals before. It was bib number 1 from the NDW50. I decided to catch up and have a chat. The owner of the sandals was Mark Griffiths. I introduced myself and we spent the next few k discussing our adventures on the NDW. Although we did take the opportunity to dip our feet in the Thames and cool the hot feet down. We perceived to CP3. I had seen signs for a local shop, and was looking for an I've lolly. Not being able to find the shop, I opted for a marmite sandwich and Kellogg's nutrigrain bar (strawberry). Mark had set off before me as I had opted to have a bit of a rest and look at my feet again. I decided to had some blister plasters to the front of my feet and tape up. 

Just as I was leaving the aid station, I got a call from Fay, my wife. She had been waiting at Streatley for me. She had seen Fi, so decided to give me a call. After our chat, she decided to walk the route to meet me. Arriving a lot quicker than I expected. We walked together into Streatley. It was now to hot for me to run. I knew if I attempted to run in that heat, I wouldn't make half way, let alone the finish. With the thought of a Calypso in my mind, we took a detour to the local shop in Streatley. Two Calypso's went into one bottle and a very nice cold can of Redbull went down my neck. Hardest part of visiting that shop was trying to leave it. The aircon was on and it was so cool.

Fay and I walked together over the Thames and upto the Bull pub. This is where Fay left me, but she did say she would try to find me around the halfway point. After a good moral boost and having a cold drink and two Calypso's melting in my bottle, I picked my pace, and walked as hard and as fast as I could to catch Mark. 

As I came into CP4, Mark was chilling in the shade. I topped up my bottles. Including the calypso one. For some reason they were slow to melt? Unlike me! Mark and I got some grub on board, and then set off for the halfway point. 

It was very hot now and shade seemed to be disappearing just when we needed it the most. I thought my training upto this event had been good and that I was as prepared as I could be. I never thought about it possibly being 28c. It maybe realise the importance of warm weather training if you want to attempt races such as MDS. I had been wise enough to apply a good amount of P20 sunscreen and wear a uv protective running top. Courtesy of my running mate Michael Sartorius. I tried to go as light weight as possible to cut down on carrying unnecessary weight. I was using my new running vest, the Salomon S-Lab12 vest. It's brilliant, and no point had I felt and discomfort and had no hassles with the water bottles on the front. I'd opted for my Hilly twin skin sockets and my Salomon Sense Ultra trainers. Adidas shorts and a Salomon cap rounded off my outfit. Not forgetting my sunnies, a nice pair of shaded DeWalt workwear glasses.! Cheap but very effective!

Mark and I cracked on putting the worlds to rights as I finally got to enjoy my double Calypso's. We soon came upon the first real indicator that halfway was close. Due to those doing two days or only 50km, and that the campsite/50km finish wasn't actually at the 50km checkpoint, they were being diverted along a different path. At this point on the course, everybody is exposed to the elements. We trudged on, up a hill where I got to meet the wife again. She had managed to find the route and had parked up. I was rather relieved to see her. I was now running low on water. I grabbed some from the car and quenched my first and topped up my bottle. Mark declined any. After a quick kiss and a cuddle, Mark and I set off for the last few kilometres to the halfway point. It seemed to take an age, and I was starting to suffer badly in the heat! I had finished all my water again, and every time I attempted to drink my electrolytes, I would gag. I was starting to feel like a dead weight and lethargic. I wasn't far from crawling into the half way point and I was very concerned that I may not leave it. As soon as I got into CP5 I got some water on board and filled my bottles, one with water, one with squash. The medic saw me and informed me he had a gift for me! I thought that's nice, who's it from? It turned out to be two massive soaking wet sponges that he used to cool me down!! An awesome gift! He recommended getting either some salty soup or the pasta and to drink at least a litre of fluid and to use the toilet before setting out. This is what I then did. I took my feet put of my shoes and socks and tried to get the soup and some bread on board. It was a struggle I have to admit. But after every mouthful I was feeling better. After a good half an hour spent here, Mark and I were refreshed and ready for the off. I felt like a new man! I have to thank Fay at this point. If I hadn't seen her and to get that extra water, I'm not sure I would've made halfway. Having made it that far, I'd like to thank the Medic for looking after me and all the other runners that were passing through. A true guardian angel! Thank you.

Mark and I set off again. I felt like a new man and we happily had a giggle quoting Monty Python. It wasn't to long until we joined up with Adrain Smith, Andrew Perry and Courtney Maggs-Jones. We all started chatting along as a group that probably look like your normal Saturday night lads out on the town. But better dressed! Courtney struggled with our walking pace, so he would occasionally run in front of us, start to walk until we caught him and repeat the process once we did catch him. Mark and Adrain were chatting about minimal and barefoot running and I started chatting to Andrew about Ultra running. If my memory serves me right, this was Andrews first ultra!

Time seemed to fly by as we rolled into CP6 at 65km looking now like some sort of camp running version of Reservoir Dogs. I opted to have a cup of coffee here and deal with my feet again. Andrew was also suffering badly with blisters which the medic looked at. I was in the process of getting blisters, so decided to replace what I had put on earlier in the day. I just wish I hadn't declined some clean socks when I saw Fay some hours ago. Silly mistake. 

The sun was now setting as we rolled out of CP6. Me munching on some Big D nuts! I also now had my head torch out ready to use. I had recently purchased a Hope Vision after a previous night race, where I had stumbled on anything and everything. The group was becoming a bit fragmentated and I was now feeling the effects of the coffee. Now seemed a good time to get running again. So I did. I didn't initially intend on running from the group, but that's what I ended up doing. Sorry guys, I didn't mean to be rude. 

Head torch now blazing and I found I had the trail to myself for a while. I past a few people on the trail and I was soon in CP7. I was feeling good. I stopped briefly here to fill my bottles and have another cup of coffee. I was expecting the guys to turn up, so I could apologise. They didn't and I cracked on. It was fully dark now and I was enjoying the solitude of running alone through some woods. But sadly the trail ended as I joined a road. I knew this was the road that would take me over the M4 motorway and that I must be close to Wroughton. It felt like the end was in sight. It was around 11.30pm. I continued running the road and crossed the motorway, but I was starting to worry. I knew we had to cross the motorway, and it felt right, but I hadn't seen a marker for a while. I decided to run for another half a mile, if no markers I'd check my GPS app. Thankfully some markers came up and I was happy. 

On this stretch I knew there were some hills to climb. It wasn't long until I was back on the trail and climbing a hill. I caught up with a lady who obviously liked her Moonwalks. She offered for me to over take in the narrow route through the long grass we were in, but I declined. I was pleased to have a bit of company. We continued into CP8 together. 

I spent a good 10 minutes here while drinking more coffee and getting some flap jack. I also decided on airing my feet for a while. As I left the aid station I was starting to feel a little cold. I stopped to put my jacket on and was met by Ben Burch and Alex Partridge. Tired now was truly set in and we walked together chatting. Alex and Ben are/were both rowers. The former being an Olympic double medalist. We discussed recovery and other things ultra running related. Again I enjoyed having some company. I was rather surprised that both of them had said that this was one of the hardest things they have done! I slowly got a head as they both stopped to water some local trees. I crossed a sty into a field and became rather paranoid that there was a Bull stalking me in the field. Not helped when I heard the two guys behind me laughing! It certainly got my legs going a bit quicker! I marched into CP9 followed by Ben and Alex. They weren't spending long in the aid stations and I grabbed a coffee and joined them for the final stretch. 

I grabbed some sweets and handed them out. It this point in the race I was now at the furthest point I had ever been. New PBs were being set. We soon crossed the last road and were looking forward to seeing those Stones! After what seemed an age, we still hadn't dropped of the Ridgeway. Ben and Alex were keen to setup a fund to get the Ridgeway paved. It had been tough work travelling along a heavily rutted dried out mud trail. My feet were feeling battered and I was fully aware that, despite my best efforts, I had some blistering on the underside of the front part of my feet.

The sun was starting to come up and it was time to put the Hope Vision away. We soon came across the path that we needed to come off the Ridgeway. My spirits lifted, for a short while. We joined a country lane and some signage informing us to continue down the lane, around some of the stones and then to loop back to this point. Really?! Ggrrr

Off we trundled moaning away. We got to the Stones, had a quick photo shoot, although I forgot to ask Ben to send it to me.

We then sent off for he finish and we could start to think about recovery food! After getting back to the signage we had to cross a field to another country lane. Once on this lane we could see the finish arch. As we approached, it didn't seem to get any closer. It's like the scene in Monty Pythons Holy Grail when Kibg Arthur attacks the castle. The guards can see him coming, but never gets closer, then bam, he's there. That's how the finish line felt for me! The three of us crossed the line together. I finished the race with a double Olympic medalist!!

My time was 21hrs14mins. Easily more than 5 hours more than I expected, but with conditions on the day, the finish was far more important. I set two new PBs to, 65 miles covered, my furthest distance to date and the longest time non stop. What a great feeling. Fi was there to see me finish. She had finished around an hour ahead. Maybe I could've caught her? Maybe not.

For a new event, I think it was rather well organised. I knew there would be no cutoff times to worry about. This race had been opened up to give people an opportunity to compete in an ultra. The winner of the non stop 100km finished in a time of 10hrs23. I believe he was around two hours behind where he expected to be. A truly tough day out there. I had finished and knew others were behind me, some were getting ready to start day 2. I'm pleased to say that Mark, Adrain, Andrew and Courtney crossed the line together in s time of 21hrs49. Well done guys!

Edinburgh Marathon Festival weekend

Runners and Supporters in Edinburgh

My first races "abroad". I had decided last year to make a journey north to meet up with many RFFs and enjoy the delights of the Edinburgh marathon. Also hoped the medal would look a little dodgy like last year?!

After staying the night at Mos, the wife and I drove the hours drive up to Edinburgh. We had decided to add a holiday in Edinburgh as well as me running the 10k and marathon. We had booked an apartment just off the Royal Mile. Not only a great location for being a tourist, but close to the 10k race and the start area for the marathon!! 

With the car parked up, the wife and I made our way to the Dynamic Earth at Holyrood Park. We were on the lookout for Sharon Parkin and Stephen Gunn. Both had come along to support us runners running the 5k, 10k and kids races on the Saturday.We soon found them, helped by having the RFF banner! Dawn Thomson was also with Sharon. I had met both Stephen and Sharon previously. Stephen got me a place at the Brighton Marathon. He was also great support during the London Marathon and last years Bewl 15. Sharon had joined me for a day down south running a local 7 miles. It was in fact 10, as I got a little confused. We also ran the Tatton half in November. Dawn was a first time meet. One of many for this weekend! 

Making my way with the supporters to the start area, we found Gillian Yates, who was also running the 10k. Also running it was Karen Tuck and Victoria Hunter. I some how mad managed to have a yellow number, which related to my start wave. The first one! Whoop.

The weather was rather toasty. Not what i was expecting. I had actually packed hats and gloves for the holiday. I had been told Edinburgh only gets warm for EMF weekend! They weren't kidding. The start area was just below Arthurs Seat. The big old silent volcano. Now I had looked at the route. Believing that the route went around the volcano. But within a mile of the start, we were starting to head uphill. The road was winding, so i decided to stay head down telling myself not to look up. Went round the next bend, I looked up! Doh! Keep your head down and keep breathing and moving forward. Next bend, yep, I looked up! Why? Stupidity!

Eventually we reached our summit. Thankfully, it was the very top! Good news now, we were heading back downhill! The previous Saturday I was running the NDW50 ultra. I knew my legs would be tired, so I wasn't going all out, plus I had a marathon to run the next day. My calf's had felt a little tight on the way up, but this downhill stretch was allowing me to open my legs. It really did help loosen the legs. On the downhill stretch I was just getting to the half way point when I spotted the RFF banner and support crew! A quick wave and onto the second half of the course. I headed out the park onto some local roads. It was only briefly on the road and we then turned onto a path heading back into the park. It was nice to get some cover from the beating sun. It was warm in Edinburgh, Hawaii! It wasn't long and I was back on the road within the park. The finish line was coming up and the support was fantastic. I spotted the RFF banner and support crew again. Just in front of the finish line. I crossed the finish line in a steady and comfortable 57 minutes. One race down. After receiving my medal and goody bag, I made my way to the support crew to cheer the other runners in. I didn't have to wait to long to see Gillian come home, and then Karen. Although it looked like Karen had been in some adventures with blood on her knee and elbow.

Whats great about EMF is the varied amount of races they put on. Rather than just the marathon, there is a race for everybody. After the 10k comes the 5k and kids 1.5k. As the 5k started, with more RFFs in, although as i write this I can only remember Chrstine Wells, sorry whoever I forgot. It was then followed by the kids 5k. Victoria Hunter and Helen McBain had there little ones running in this event. Again there were some other RFFs i have forgotten. So many names!! As we cheered them off, we made our way to the finish area. Before we had got there, the first of the kids were coming back! And also the first of the 5k! Wow they were quick!! It wasn't long till we saw the first RFFs coming in. Christine in the 5k was flying and so was Amy, Helens daughter. I cannot remember times, but was highly impressed by Amys minute mile pace! Helen has so competition!!

After watching the all the finishers come in, it was off to check into our holiday apartment and move the car before it got a ticket or moved for me. We agreed to meet Sharon and Stephen later at the Hub, where Mo was also going to meet us for her Photo shoot. A nice afternoon chilling and chatting, we were joined by Beverley Smeaton and Rachel Pecz. Soon followed by Mo and her friend Jackie?.

Carrie Morpeth had arranged a pre race meal for us at Prezzo's in Leith. A good chance to have a catch up and chat where we could look our best and not be covered in sweat and stinking!! A lovely meal was enjoyed with the following, and maybe a little to much piss taking from me on Carrie. The following were there - Shari, Nigel and Mia Bullock with Mias friend Rebecca. Sharon and Grant Parkin. Ann and Richard Smith. Carrie and John Moriarty. Maureen Murray. May Chan. Michelle Iddon. Paula Rose. Stephen Gunn. Beverley Smeaton. Fay and myself.

Sunday - Marathon Day.

Be luck rather than design, the start of the Marathon was a few minutes walk away. Awaiting the arrival of Mo, Chris and Rachel, who would no doubt need there last wees before the race, i managed to scoff down some porridge. Why is it so hard to eat on race day?
Once everybody had arrived we made the short walk to Regents Road, the start area. With the RFF banner, it wasn't long till we started to see other RFF members finding us! I was also putting smiles on peoples faces with the comment on it stating "Miles of Smiles". Many a person wanting a picture with it.

It wasn't to long to the off, so Chris Murray and myself headed to the green start area. We were going to run together. Both of us unsure what sort of legs we had under us. For me, it was only a week ago that i did the North Downs Way 50, plus yesterdays 10km. It was make or break, and i hoped to be under 5 hours all things considered.

With what has to be one of the best start build ups I've experienced we were off. I had heard that Edinburgh was quick and flat. Something i was pleased about. From the start you head downhill to the end of Regents road and head towards Meadowbank. Soon turning back towards the city centre and Holyrood Park. We joined Holyrood Park after running between Holyrood House (The Queens official residence when in Scotland) and the Scottish Parliament building. Chris and I at these point caught up with Mo and flanked her like body guards. Had a little chat and then we got back on our pace, just under 9 minute miles.

After leaving Holyrood Park we headed back towards the Meadowbank Stadium. Looping the Stadium we then headed towards Leith and the seafront. The weather was still rather warm at this point but occasionally there was a nice breeze. Chris and I kept going at a steady 9min mile pace. We soon welcomed the seafront. I had heard friends talk about the Power Station as a reference point for the race. It looked miles away! Not really surprising when running a marathon. Its interesting how, even now, its hard to visually judge distance. This was probably the first time i felt i needed to get my head down and focus on the task.

Chris was focusing on finding Jelly Babies, and occasionally he would spot them and inform me. Chris has pretty good eyesight when it comes to sweets. Although he was starting to get frustrated by the support. Well not the support exactly, more the fact that it appeared that women favoured calling my name out then his, and when his name was called, it was likely from a him rather than a her. I put it down to the fact that me being 6 foot 6 and wearing a sympathy helped with the fairer sex. But i wasn't knocking it!

After a few miles of more jelly babies and name calling. We passed the race course and also the finish area. Chris needed to use the little boys thunder box, so I decided to wait for him. I was enjoying running with Chris. I may have missed jelly babies if i hadn't ran with him. While waiting i saw a fellow RFF, Will Davidson, instinctively we high fived as he passed.
Chris was back out the toilet, not sure he had washed his hands, so i needed to be at those Jelly babies first!

We cracked on. I became aware that Chris wasn't right with me, but knew id have a bad patch at some point. Unfortunately i didn't have to wait that long. My left calf had been a bit niggly around mile 8, but i thought it had past. It came back with its niggly mates around mile 11. I had to walk. It wasn't long till Chris came past with Shari. They checked on me, but i said to keep going. Man Down!

I guess i was maybe hoping for to much after the NDW50 the previous weekend. Something had to give. But I'm determined if not anything else. While assessing myself i continued forward. I had set myself a sub 5 hour target before the race. Up until then i had been on a sub 4 pace, and had felt comfortable. Even thinking that a PB was on.

I attempted a run walk scenario. I ran for 300 steps, then recover with 100 steps. This seem to work, so continued with it. I felt i was back in the game. It wasn't long that i then got a call from Joanne Needham catching me up. That gave me a lift. I had meant Jo before, but it was a nice meet, all be it very brief. I crossed the halfway point in 2hours 5. Still well within the target time of sub 5. Best keep going.

Things went as best as they could right up to GosfordHouse, the turning point. I was struggling and the pain was building in the calf. Thankfully Mo had just caught me up and offered me some pain killers. Mo was having a tough time after losing her inhaler. But shes a tough cookie and kept moving forward. I decided to walk miles 17-18 to allow the calf to rest up. So it wasn't long to see more RFFs on course. First Beverley Smeaton arrived and gave me some jelly babies! Lost without Chris when it came to them. Just as she sped off Carrie arrived. She decided to walk with me and we had a chat. Mainly me taking the piss again, but she looked strong and soon left me to continue her own journey to the finish line.

Best get going again. Back into the return to the finish line I spoke to Calum Beaton. He was out on his bike supporting. We had a little chat and i pushed on. Heading back i soon saw Ann Smith, John Elvins and Maureen Murray heading to the turning point. I was pleased to see all three of them and they were doing well and looked like they had plenty in the tank.

Things steady the same for the next few miles until I saw the race course again. The finish was insight!! Not literally. I knew the RFF support crew were around the finish area. I started to run and vowed to not stop until after the line. Turning left into the park, there was the banner and my wife Fay cheering, the calf felt a little easier and i upped the tempo. The matting they put over the grass is a little weird. I crossed the line with a time of 5hrs 6mins. I wanted sub 5 but after having to carry the injury over half the course, and completing a tough 50 mile ultra the week before i was well pleased!!

I collected my goodies and had my photo taken with my medal.

I headed off to join the support crew and other finished runners. I soon had a can of cider in my hand, thank you Nigel!

It wasn't to long to wait before Sharon Parkin completed her first marathon! Brilliant effort. Then it was the turn of Ann Smith. The finishers were starting to come in a little spaced out now and supporters were heading home. Not us though. We were all still cheering everybody in. We were waiting to see Maureen Murray. Maureen is 67 and this was her first marathon. Many had told her she shouldn't do it. This just made Maureen more determined to do it. I decided to head back out and look for her.

I headed back up to the race course and passed another RFF, John Elvin, who was also making his marathon debut. I informed him, the finish was around the corner. Then there, in the distance i could spot a yellow shirt, it was Maureen. I went and meet her. She was doing well but appeared a little concerned. She thought she was last and that she had been asked if she wanted a lift back to the finish. Thankfully she didn't and i told her she wasn't last. I had seen plenty behind her after the turn around point. I informed her that everybody was still waiting to cheer her in. As we came into the finish area Maureen started running again, i struggled to keep up. We were soon joined by other RFFs as we crossed the line together. Maureen had done what so many doubted she could do, she had become a marathon runner. It was an emotional time. What an inspiration! I hope I'm running marathons still at 67!

I believe Maureen vowed at that point not to do it again, but Ive heard recently she has signed up for next  years marathon!! Good on you Maureen!!

Maureen on the finishing straight

To top the day off, a few of us headed into Edinburgh for some dinner at Chiquitos. It was here that my running caught up with me. That and the Desperados.

Run for Fun and Maureen Mo Virtue.

Its Friday afternoon and I'm drinking a large amount of coffee with the wife and our host Mo Virtue. We've been here in the Borders for an hour or so. Mo and I are looking forward to this weekends running. We both have signed up for the Full Marathon on the Sunday. Mo required some persuasion, which I happily helped out with. As the wife and I were coming up to have a holiday. I decided to run the 10k on the Saturday to. Mo had other plans. Mainly being the poster girl for next years event!! I guess my invite went missing? Bloody Royal Mail.

Let me tell you a little bit about Mo, and just as importantly Run for Fun (RFF).
Back in October 2011, I received an email from the Great Run organisers inviting me to enter the Ballot for the very first run in the newly built Olympic Park and Stadium. An opportunity I took up. At the beginning of November, I received another email confirming my successful place into the 5 mile run. I was going to be one of the first 5,000 people to run in the London 2012 Olympic Stadium in March!! Result. The event was being organised by the Great Run Organisation, on behalf of the National Lottery, for whom had donated a large amount of money for the Olympic Park to be built. The run was The National Lottery Olympic Park Run. There was also a Facebook page, naturally. With all the excitement of gaining entry, people were chatting about the event on this page.

Somewhere also chatting was Mo. But Mo had an idea. I may be wrong, not for the first time in my life, but I think Mo could see what could happen. After the event people may not chat anymore. So Mo put her idea into practice. She set up a little Facebook page called Run for Fun. She invited some of us into her group. A group on a Facebook page which was a closed group. You needed to be invited in or ask to come in. But it wasn't and isn't an exclusive club. Its Mo's way of looking after the people. I quickly asked if I could come in, I brought wine? After a secret handshake that never happened, I was in. I was now part of what has become amazing. The few months building up to the event, we would all chat and start to get to know each other. Mo seemingly having the ability to comment on all threads. The majority of the group, which at this early point was about 40-50 people, most doing the Olympic Park Run (OPR). The day arrived in late March for us all to head towards Stratford, London from all over the country. We were off to make history. No other Olympic Stadium had held an event like this before the Olympic Games. We had all arranged to meet as close to the Orbit within the Olympic Park as we could. Some of us had swapped numbers. The wife, my mother and myself were just outside Costa coffee in the Westfield development, when i tried to ring Mo. She was just in side! With Coffees in hand we met first time face to face and hit it off straight away.

This first event was a great success for RFF. A large group of us did meet and had a group piccy taken. After the event, the talk on the page was of the race and what the next challenges would be. Friends started adding there running friends, who in turn added there friends. The group was growing. A mix of first time runners and seasoned runners. Mo some how still managed to comment on every thread. Fuelled by coffee.

I became aware that more and more people were trying to meet up at races. But it was difficult. Trying to recognise people from there Facebook Profile. If that in fact was them in the picture. So I discussed with Mo the idea of running tops. A bit of work was done and Mo was keen to have a big smiley in the design, we came up with the first version of the RFF symbol and shirts. I located a manufacturer, and set about the huge task of offering people the chance to have a top, in there chosen colour and with or without there names on the front. These were a great success. We now have a way to recognise each other at races.

The shirts/vests/hoodies were a great success. 180 odd were made. Mo now also takes on the mammoth task of doing the tops. 

I honestly don't know how Mo does it?! She also runs a B&B, has a beautiful daughter,Georgia, and a wonderful husband, David. Run for Fun was also setup while Mo wasn't in her family home. After suffering a fire. She was also recovering from Pneumonia!!
Mo is highly supportive and inspirational. Dishing out advice and cyber hugs. I'm privileged to call her my friend.

RFF has gone from strength to strength since that first race at the London 2012 Olympic Stadium. We celebrated a year of RFF with an anniversary run. We signed up to run 5 miles, anywhere. Be it an organised event or just with friends. All you had to do was register with Mo, plus a small cost to cover Medal. Then you just had to run 5 miles on the 31st March. The medal is fantastic and unique, with our mascot Rufus on the front. We had a similar Christmas event. We are also doing a Run the World event. Where from Jan 2013 to end of Nov 2013 we record our running mileage. We then inform Mo of our monthly mileage and Mo plots our Journey around the world. We have already completed one loop!! Again, we will receive a medal for this. A great reward for those training miles.

At Edinburgh this year, we got to unveil the first proper RFF banner, pictured at the top of this Blog!! If you don't spot a RFF shirt, then look out for this banner! It brings a smile to the most suffering of runners!

Run for Fun is now well over 600 members strong, all of them running stars in their own right!
Over 65 members will be running the National Lottery Anniversary Olympic Park Run in July! A true Olympic Legacy!! 

Mo will be there, fuelled on coffee, to spur and inspire us all onto 5 mile PBs!!

Mo Virtue, Thank you!!

Run for Funners, Thank you too!

Mo, the Poster girl for EMF 2014!!

Centurion Runnings North Downs Way 50 Mile Ultra

The day had finally come. One I had been looking forward to since August 2012. Centurion Running's NDW50 mile ultra.

Last August I volunteered to sweep the first 32 miles of the NDW50. A target I knew would be initially difficult, but one I could achieve and one that would challenge me. Last August, I set out to sweep with a fellow runner who was also sweeping, all be it the first 50 miles, Michael Sartorius. Michael and I set out doing our job and naturally got chatting. I think Michael initially thought I was mad. Previously only ever running up to 23 miles on a fell race last June, 32 miles was a big step. Soon realising that the pace wasn't to bad, thanks to having to remove signage as one of our jobs, the conversation soon changed to convincing me to try and do 50 miles with Michael. I must admit, it didn't really take much convincing!! To cut a long story short, as this blog is about this years event, I pushed on beyond the 32 mile aid station. The point I should have stopped at, I even got through the 39 mile aid station. But in between there and the 44 mile aid station I was done! Only six miles short of the target, but it took me a good 20 minutes just to get up Botley Hill! The plan was to sweep and get more insight into ultra running. A lesson I got a lot out of. Mainly the need to eat!!

Anyhow, as you can imagine, I was up for the challenge and felt far better prepared after completing the Thames Trot and sweeping 38 miles of the Thames Path 100. Not forgetting 2 marathons in 8 days.

The weather leading up to the race weekend had been a bit of a mixed bag. Making it a little difficult when coming to sorting kit. I knew i would be wearing my new Salomon Sense Ultras i had got a few weeks back and had managed a few runs in. They felt great and must thank Tim Lambert for suggesting them! I love a light weight minimal trainer. I had been running in the Cross Speed 3s up until then. I had opted for a short sleeve compression top and a technical T-shirt. Standard Adidas running shorts. Socks were my problem. Do I go with the Twin Skins or the Drymax. As the weather wasn't looking the greatest, I opted for the Drymax.

In my rucksack I opted for a lightweight rain coat and other bits of kit that was required. I also added some Cheese and Onion Discos and peanut butter and jam sarnies. Plus two litres of ready mixed pink lemonade Nuun electrolyte drink.

With all my kit sorted, the wife drove me the short distance to the Registration area in Farnham. My kit was checked and Robbie Britton was impressed by my crisp selection. I met up with Martin Bushell and Michael Sartorius. This was Martins first Ultra and we had discussed running together, but we hadn't set anything in stone. Michael was once again sweeping the course. This time on his own. No doubt spending it moaning about the weather not being perfect and thinking how he was going to get round the up coming Thames Ring 250.
James Elson, the race director, gave his speech and final instructions to us, the runners. I think he may have scared the wife a little when discussing the things that could go wrong?!

We then made our journey to the start area. To get there we must cross the railway at Farnham Station, in true fashion, the crossing barriers were down, so we had our first climb of the day, over the railway bridge. I hung around the back of the pack with Martin. Start as you mean to go on. Had a little chuckle to myself about the amount of tape used just to mark the route to the start area. Michael was going to have a lot of tape to remove!

We were off. The start of the NDW50 Ultra. Martin and I settled nicely down into a comfortable pace and started chatting. The early part of the race takes you along some country lanes as we head towards The Sands and the course becomes more trail and less road. This part of the course is also very familiar as I live local and train on it. I knew one of my Nemesis's was coming up. The hill up Puttenham Common. Its not a big hill, but because its sandy and during rain falls, the sand gets washed away leaving a lot of flint around. I find it really breaks my pacing up. Thankfully, I managed it without a hiccup and enjoyed the trot down into Puttenham.

The first aid station is only 6 miles into the course just next to Puttenham golf club. It always seems a bit early, but I feel its always good to use the opportunity to get food on board. The aid stations on Centurion Races are brilliant. There was always something there plus a few little surprises added by the volunteers. I kept it simple with a cup of water, a few jelly babies and cookies and we were off again. 6 more miles to the next aid station and more food.

The course carries on past the golf club and heads east towards Guildford. Eventually passing under the A3 and towards Watts Gallery. The course is pretty flat here and it starts to become undulating as you make your way past Loseley House. Just to the North is the Hogs Back, but the course doesn't head up there, sticking to the Pilgrims Way/North Downs Way. The pilgrims stayed low to avoid the highway men. I was pleased, there were enough hills to conquer this day! Maybe the Pilgrims just didn't like going up hills either??

The course continues past Loseley farm and eventually you come out onto some roads in Guildford. We quickly crossed these and made our way down towards the River Wey. A nice little surprise was in store here. Some kind gentleman had made bacon sarnies and was serving them up to any runners who wanted one. I duly took one, id burn the extra calories off. After crossing the river a little further up, I found my bacon sarnie had ketchup! Do I turn round and get some brown sauce?? Deciding against it, i ate the free and rather tasty bacon sarnie as we crossed Shalford Park. Bacon is pretty hard to eat while running. Learnt something new!
We crossed the road and headed along a road called Pilgrims Way?! What a coincidence!
This also meant we were starting the ascent to St Marthas on the Hill. If you've never been here before, St Marthas is a church built on what is basically a massive sand dune!

Before peeking this "dune", the second aid station welcomes you in. This one i had been looking forward to. The wife was there to meet and encourage me. This was the only time i would see her til once home many hours later. Also the aid station was being ran by my friend Paula Patterson. I was looking forward to seeing what spread she had put out. I also finally got to meet Dave Urwin - the bearded runner. I could have happily stayed here and chatted. It would beat having to get up the rest of the dune! But i noticed no mars bars? My finger was firmly pointed at Robbie and questions were asked.

With food in our bellies and fresh fluids taken on Martin and myself made the final ascent up the dune.We did walk a little, until i saw the photograph up ahead. Giving Martin a heads up we started running. Giving the impression we had ran the whole way! Seeing the pic further down, I think we got away with it?!

As they say, what goes up, must come down. And we did, quickly. At which point all the shaking induced Martin into his first pee stop of the day. I stood watch/guard. Not watching.
After the brief pit stop it was back to some uphill action. The short ascent up to Newlands Corner. This is where my training runs started. The next section is enjoyable but uneventful while staying along the higher slopes of the North Downs Way. I struggled a little along here and Martin went a head chatting to another runner. I was feeling sorry for myself, but also knew the long descent down through Denbies vineyard was coming up, which would lead me to the next aid station at the bottom of Box Hill. I picked myself and got a good pace going down to the aid station. Last time I ran through Denbies vineyard there was wine at there aid stations. Bacchus Half and full marathon are good fun and wine at every aid station!

Eventually making the Box Hill aid station, I was pleased to see Martin there waiting for me. I planned to arrive here between 5-5.30 hours, so I was will on course when i arrived at 5.05. A good scoff, but no Mars bars Robbie?! Martin and i set about climbing Box Hill, but first the stepping stones to deal with. I really was hoping Martin wouldn't slip up here, mainly because time would be wasted with me laughing. It turned out to be uneventful and we both crossed incident free. 

Box Hill is simply a killer. How the lead guys get up there so quick, I do not know. I don't think I could run up it, even with a permanently attached oxygen bottle. Who knew the air could get so thin in Surrey? Once up and realising i was still alive, the views south across Dorking and beyond are stunning and worth the climb. Last year there were Olympic rings up here for the cycling event. Sadly they are long gone. 

With enjoyable views and some newly found energy we plodded on, ticking of the miles while continuing to head east towards Reigate. At one point we passed Jez Bragg. I believe his wife Gemma was also running the event to gain a qualifying tie for the Western States Ultra! Fair play. I believe she achieved her goal.We eventually got to the bottom of Reigate Hill. The 7 odd miles between Box Hill and Reigate Hill are probably, in my eyes, the hardest part of the 50 mile course. Rhythm is broken up so much along this stretch and with two big climbs it really eats into your time. Well it did mine. Reigate Hill is a tease. Unlike Box Hill which is steps, Reigate Hill is more a steep road, teasing you into trying and running it. FAIL. Back to walking and wondering where my sherpa with the oxygen bottle was. Reaching the top i again bumped into a runner who was supporting his friend running the race. I didn't get his name, and i apologise for that. I met hi at the finish of last years NDW50 which he completed. I had seen him a few times during the day, always offering a drink or checking we were good. At the top of Reigate Hill, he gave Martin and I some Jelly Babies. Perfect to help us get through the next mile to the 32 mile aid station.

With yet another enjoyable plod along the ridge offering more great views we made the 32 mile aid station. My friend Fi McNelis was waiting here for us, and her other running friends. Fi had rang me while i was climbing Reigate Hill (which i used as an excuse to get a breather in) to find out where i was. Martin and I got some food on and didn't hang around to long here. Mainly because once you get Fi talking, its hard to stop her! Only kidding Fi. Fi is a very jolly ultra runner and will amuse you no end if you ever have the pleasure to meet her. Ask her about the bike pump on the SDW100!!

Leaving Reigate Hill behind it isn't long till you get a nice downhill section through a golf course and then along a cricket pitch. Being a nice day, there was a game on. Not sure who was winning, but i would have put money on the team in white! The next part of the course crosses the M25. Up until this point you have been south of it. This bridge crossing indicates that you are now north of it and within its circle. The finishing line is getting closer. Its not long after this you also cross the M23. 

Back at Reigate Hill, i took a good amount of food on board, as i knew the next aid station was fluid only. The course along this stretch after the motorway crossings is very tranquil with fields to cross and church yards to go through. After what seemed like ages, we came out of the woods and up ahead was an oasis. The 39 mile aid station. But it was different. It had food!! Very good food i hear too. Being a bit of a slower and closer to the back, i missed the ice creams and chocolate coated strawberries. I didn't mind, as i wasn't aware of them at this point. I was pleased to see food and drink. The apple crumble cake was awesome and i joked that i could quit just here and enjoy the evening. But i had a demon to put to rest. It wasn't long after this aid station last year where it went wrong for me.

Leaving that aid station behind and having another runner, Alan, join us, we headed off. We had been informed that the Bull wasn't in the field and headed east. It was here that my sock decision came back to haunt me. I was aware i had a blister building under the front of my left foot. I tried to manage it by curling my toes up to ease the pressure. I thought it was working. But then I got a horrible sensation. Initially i thought the blister had popped. But no, it had spread under the skin. Great, because running the NDW50 wasn't hard enough!! 

After a while in some woods again we eventually started to head downhill and were running parallel with the M25 just west of the Clacket Lane Services. Last year, as Michael and I made our way around the quarry, I just stopped. I felt very sick but wasn't. The tank was empty. This year I ran around that quarry like a gazelle. A grazing Gazelle rather than one being chased by a Lion. But none the less a Gazelle. We then came to the field with the Bull. A nice sign up "Beware Bull". I think Alan was concerned, as if there had been a Bull he may have had out walk it. Thankfully there wasn't!

We made it incident and Bull free to the bottom of Botley Hill and the last big climb of the course. Martin started to tell me about his training run along this stretch. A magical Peacock. Apparently, during his run down the hill, he saw something he believed was a Peacock. So certain it was, he slowed not to scare it and got his camera out. Eventually getting closer, he confirmed it was actually a plastic bag stuck in the twigs! This helped put a smile on my face, and we continued up the hill quoting Monty Python. Some how we made it to the top. Monty  Python helped and i would highly recommend it the next time you have trouble while running.

This was a fantastic milestone. Last year it ended here for me, but there was no way i was done. We had got here in 10 hours and still had 3.30 to go. Easy. We set off. Unfortunately we let Alan slip behind. I guess he was struggling and needed to continue at his own pace. I hope Monty Python helped him up the hill. Maybe that's why he slipped behind?

About a mile down the road the second blister on my left foot spread. This one on the heel. Right foot was fine? This slowed the pace to walking. And awkward walking at that. I tried to push on as hard as I could, but the pain was tough at times. Martin was fantastic at this point. He stayed with me. We were having fun. We came up to a field with cows in, but opted to take the slightly longer flatter route, the road to the side of the field. I was glad we did too. The cows were hanging around the exit gate like some gang wanting to jump us for our iPhones. Michael tells me he did go through the field and there was also calf's in there. Wise choice by Martin and myself. 

We were soon in the field behind the finish area at Knockholt Pound. We could see the finish inflatable and here the tannoy. That are the last orders call at the pub. We eventually made it to the road into the village, and i said to Martin "I've got to finish this running". We were off, Gazelle like again (grazing). Running up through the village and the last of the days sunlight drifting in the horizon from where we had come, it was a great sense of pride and achievement to cross that finish line. I was so pleased to see James Elson again and felt honoured to receive my medal and finishers Tshirt from him. I have helped at several Centurion Running events, but this was the first I had competed in. It was awesome. 12.59 hours!!

I cant thank James, the Centurion Running team, and especially the volunteers enough. The enthusiasm to put on not just a good race, but a great race was fantastic from every single person on course. The number of people wanting to run Centurion Running events speaks for it self. If you only ever run one ultra, run a Centurion Running one!

I was also pleased to see Michael arrive at the finish hall while i was cramming sausage into my face. He had finished sweeping and had helped a few back markers also arrive before cutoff. One of them being Alan who had fallen behind after the last aid station. I was pleased he had made it!!

My main thanks has to go to Martin. What a star and true gentleman. Martin had bags of energy and probably could have been in the pub long before I finished. We did even joke about getting a drink in before his wife picked us up. It was also his first Ultra. Martin wanted to run 40 miles before he was 40. I think he made it! We had great fun and he was a great support for me. I was so pleased to see him waiting at Box Hill. 

So thank you MartinBushell. Same again on the TP100?

http://www.centurionrunning.com/

Another hill?!

 Medal and finishers T shirt

 Martin and myself enjoying Paulas Spread

 Martin and I just after the first Aid Station

 Running up St Marthas! (Got away with it Martin)

 Martin and I as Ultra runners