tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68322712703984443282024-02-19T00:31:52.544-08:00Running adventures and finding elevationAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-29545246994481212842016-07-07T02:16:00.001-07:002016-07-07T02:24:55.678-07:00Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2016<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Heading back to my European home away from home left me with mixed emotions this year. I was excited about heading back to Cortina and the Dolomites but I was definitely feeling sad to be leaving Liz behind. Liz and I had discussed things in depth prior to me going, and she kept saying she really wanted me to go. She’s always been so incredibly supportive of me chasing my dreams with my running and I couldn't do what I do without her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I’d been having some major calf problems since getting back into the full swing of training after my break from running last year, including tearing my calf 2 weeks out from Mt Solitary and then having issues with it again during the UTA100. Fortunately it didn’t tear in UTA which was great, but that was short lived. Three weeks after UTA I was heading out for a night run in prep for Lavaredo and I tore it again heading down Furber Steps. Literally the day before this horror run I had confirmed and booked my flights to Italy and then less than 24hrs later I was limping back home from a training run. I was absolutely gutted and angry that things were playing out how they were. I asked myself so many questions that cold dark night as I walked home. “Why has it decided to tear now?” “How can I get through those couple of awesome runs and now it’s playing up?” I thought that I had been smart, easing off during UTA because I knew I had Lavaredo coming up and felt like I almost deserved a smooth and strong build to Lavaredo. That was obviously not to be!</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Because of all the dramas it ended up being a day by day assessment and frequent visits down to Sydney, a 5hr round trip for 90 minutes of appointments with my physio Mark Green from The Body Mechanic and also Peter Sweeney (an awesome physio that has been giving me massage/treatment). Every morning I was waking up, rolling out of bed and having that sick feeling of wondering how my calf was going to feel. When things get like this for me I really start to wonder why I bother. I hate that feeling of waking up in the morning and not knowing. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Training up on course at Forc. Lavaredo.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The final week before I was due to fly out I managed to get one week of decent training in, including a really good hill session and long run where I managed to be nearly 10 minutes quicker up Mt Solitary than what I was pre-UTA which gave me confidence. During the hill session every step going up I was waiting for a pop. I didn't go crazy hard but definitely pushed things a little as I figured I’d much rather it tear 10 minutes from home rather than 27hrs worth of trains, planes and buses. I decided on the Monday after a Sunday long run that I thought things were good to go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Arriving in Cortina it was like I hadn't left. It was really cool to have the same bus driver pick me up and even the same staff at the local pizza restaurants and cafes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I had arrived 1 week out from the race so that I could do a couple of short runs on course and get as comfortable in the big mountain environment as I could. It was great having my Catalan brother Pau arrive on the Monday so we could do some short training runs together. It was great to catch up so soon after UTA100 in May. Combining travel, racing and friends is why I love this sport so much!</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The build up to the race involved a few new things including my introduction to the wonderful world of Calzone pizza! After seeing Pau order one and then the size of what came out on his plate I had to get in on the action the following night. I’d also just purchased an AeroPress coffee maker and taken some of my favourite Cassiopeia coffee beans with me so I knew I had some of the comforts of home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Training went well in Cortina and the body seemed to have travelled well. I was also excited that I was able to book in with Mohamed the local physio guru in Cortina that I’d seen last year. I’m not one of these athletes who can just run and run and run. I really need regular treatments to keep my body ticking over smoothly. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leading the conga line early on - Photo <a href="http://www.gigibotte.com/lut2016.html" target="_blank">Gigi Botte</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I booked in to see Mohamed the Wednesday of race week and had a great session, to the point where he was adjusting and treating my ankle exactly how Greeny does without me even mentioning anything which was awesome. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The day after my treatment Pau and I drove to Lago di Landro on the Lavaredo course for an easy 30 minute shake out jog. After 5 minutes I felt a slight twinge in my calf which instantly sent a shiver up my spine. I told myself that it was just being a little grumpy after the treatment the day before. Things got worse as I continued running so I cut things short and walked back around the lake to the car. Speaking with Liz on the phone I was gutted. I’ve had this happen enough times now to know when something isn’t right. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Pre-race was as normal as pre-race can be. Interviews and a press conference; getting my gear ready and triple checking I had everything ready for my super crewman, Majell. We’d caught up prior to race day to chat about a few things and I was super stoked to have him on board helping out. It was definitely going to help knowing I got to see a good mate at the checkpoints along the way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As I was standing on the start line looking around I was so pumped knowing how deep the field was. I was truly going to get to test myself against the best ultra marathon runners in the world in this race. I’ve always said I’d rather come 30th place and get my butt kicked by 29 awesome runners rather than turn up at a race where I’m just expected to win.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The race start wasn’t too hectic as we ran out of town, I’d nearly say the first 5km was leisurely. As we started the first climb of the race I just tried to relax into the climb and get things moving. As we started to climb I had a smile on my face as I could hear other runners huffing and puffing around me when I was feeling controlled and comfortable. The last time I had this feeling was during The North Face 100 Australia 2015 and that race didn't end too badly, so I felt like I might be on for a good day. I’ve always been funny like that, I kind of know right from the onset whether things are going to go my way or not. Obviously a lot can happen in 119km but my gut feeling early on in races is often right.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just after the 33km Federaveccia Checkpoint. Photo - <a href="http://www.gigibotte.com/" target="_blank">Gigi Botte</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;">There was a massive group of about 30 odd runners that came through Ospitale at 18km which was to be expected. Everyone was jostling for position as we came into the aid station. I made a slight surge to get ahead and quickly filled up my spare soft flask with water that I had Tailwind powder in and I was off. I always like to be as efficient as possible at checkpoints as I like the little buffer it gives me when I leave the aid station.</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; text-align: center;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As we started to climb up towards Forc. Son Forca the large group started to splinter. I actually think some of the damage had been done on the first descent about 10km into the race. I told myself in the build up to this race that I was going to have to descend quicker and harder than I normally do if I had any hope of being near the front of the field. The descent down from Forc. Son Forca (approx. 2100m) was hectic to say the least! Andy Symonds (eventual winner) and Sylvain Court (eventual 4th place) took off like a flash. By this stage I was sitting in 4th place just behind Pau with Gediminas Grinius (eventual 2nd place) just behind. As we descended I had constant thoughts going through my head of “oh no, this isn’t going to end well”. I knew my legs weren't conditioned to run downhills this hard and then expect to have any climb left in them for later on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Federaveccia at 33km was where I saw Majell for the first time. It was great to see him and within a flash I was out of the aid station with only Andy in front of me by maybe 20-30m. I later found out he hadn't stopped at the aid station which just goes to show how fast Majell was at the aid station! I caught up to Andy pretty quickly and then soon after Sylvain, Pau and Gediminas joined us. As we started to climb up here it became apparent that Andy and Sylvain were keener than the other 3 of us Compressport teammates on running uphill. I was caught in two minds on this climb out of Federaveccia as I wanted to make sure I didn't blow up my quads too soon, but I also wanted to make sure I stayed in contact with the front end of the field.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I hit my first and only real low patch of the day as we hit the undulating terrain through until Lago di Misurina. I’d spoken with my good buddy Jez Bragg before the race and he’d mentioned there were heaps of muddy and slippery parts on the course. After a few training runs on the course and not finding any I was wondering what he was talking about. Then at about 38km into the race I found out what he meant. Holy crap, quite literally! There was mud, cow crap and everything in between. I was running through this boggy mess just waiting for a shoe to get sucked off. It was just as this section commenced that Gediminas pulled away from me and where Pau caught up. Pau caught me quickly and passed and I had a moment where I really couldn't be bothered. It was wet, muddy and I was a little cold. I instantly thought of something Liz had told me in one of our chats pre-race where she said to just not have low patches, or to try and snap out of any as fast as I could. I laughed to myself and literally said out loud “I don't have low patches” and then ran hard to get onto Pau’s tail again. Little did I know that this move here would mean I’d spend the next 50km running with Pau. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">We then got towards Misurina and the start of one of the major climbs of the race. I’ve done this climb several times, in training and in the race, and despite being tough is a favourite part of the race for me. Pau and I worked together through here swapping the lead and making our way up to Rifugio Auronzo at 2333m, another non-crew checkpoint. I quickly refilled my Tailwind and Pau and I left the Rifugio with a roar, ready to attack what I knew was a massive crux of the race for me.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting into the grind heading up to Rif. Averau (2413m) - Photo - LUT</td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I knew that I was going to have to get way outside my comfort zone on the descent from Forc. Lavaredo down to the bottom of the valley. In 2015, I was running along with eventual winner Didrik Hermansen in second and third place when I decided to let Didrik go on the descent. I eventually lost 11 minutes to Didrik in the space of approximately 14km. I knew I couldn't let this happen again, so when Pau started putting on the gas on the downhill I just tried to relax as best I could and run down as smoothly as I could. In the end I found it really exciting and invigorating running so hard downhill. One thing I have found over the last few years racing in Europe is that Europeans seem to descend much quicker than us southern hemisphere folk. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As we were nearing the bottom of the valley the sun was well and truly starting to shine and soon after head torches were turned off and we began the grind up the hilly but runnable climb to Cimabanche at 66km. It was here I really felt like asking Pau politely to slow down so we could cruise a little. But instead I just put in a headphone and turned up the volume and gritted my teeth. One thing I always try to remember and something I tell my coaching clients is that every low patch passes, sometimes it takes longer than others but it will pass and you’ll feel good again. I knew that seeing Majell at Cimabanche would give me a boost, and also getting some fresh water and banana, which had become a favourite in this race for me.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In my happy place! Photo - <a href="http://www.gigibotte.com/lut2016.html" target="_blank">Gigi Botte</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I made sure that we checked everything at Cimabanche as I wasn't going to see crew again for about 28km. I knew the next section up the Val Trevenanzes well. A section that I remember as being the most beautiful on the course. It didn't disappoint, Pau and I were often giving each other that look of “holy shit we’re so lucky to be running here!!” </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">We made our way up the valley with a little more water about than the week earlier when I had been on a training run. It was awesome being able to top up with ice cold water along the way as the morning was starting to heat up. As we got closer to Col de Bois I started to feel quite good on the technical but runnable incline and Pau told me to go ahead. We had a quick few words where I told him to hang on the back of me but he said he couldn’t. As I moved ahead I told him I’d see him soon as I knew he’d bounce back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">He caught back up to me near the pass and we then ran together for the final climb up before descending into Rifigio col Gallina at 95km. I remembered this part of the climb well as I’d caught a runner here last year, so decided to make a little surge here and see what happened. I say surge in the most relaxed term, merely a slight increase in effort from a hike!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favourite parts of the course between Rif. Col Gallina and Passo di Giau. Photo - LUT</td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I soon got to Col Gallina and had a quick change of shirt as it was definitely starting to warm up. Just as I was leaving the checkpoint Pau came charging in. It was definitely game on! The section from Col Gallina to Passo di Giau is another favourite of mine and I’m really happy with how I climbed and descended this section. I think I had an approximate 4 minute gap on Pau at Passo di Giau but knew how fast he would be on the final descent, so I had to run hard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The trails from Passo di Giau to Rifugio Croda da Lago are epic. Sweeping single track along the mountainside, and a picturesque mountain hut and lake in the distance give plenty of motivation to run strong. I’d prepped myself mentally for this section pre-race and told myself to just run hard and not hold back. I felt like I was moving well and as I did a sneaky look over the shoulder several times to check where Pau was I didn't think I saw anyone. A super quick refill of water at Croda da Lago and I was off for the final 1000m descent into Cortina and the finish.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing quite beats the feeling of running up the finishing chute at Lavaredo! Photo - <a href="http://en.grandtrail.info/" target="_blank">Alexis Grand Trail</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">It’s super technical through here and I did my best to run at speed and navigate the tree roots and muddy terrain. I haven't ever finished off a race quite as hard as what I did that day, flying down the trails and through into the edges of town. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As I made my way onto the road I came across a family who had set up an impromptu aid station with water and even a shower for runners. They had bells they were ringing and the children gave high fives as I ran past. I opted not to stop despite being pretty warm and about a minute or so later I was glad I didn’t! As I was getting closer to the finish I heard the bells and cheering behind me so I knew someone was close. I knew at the speed I was running they were likely less than 500m behind. I gave it everything I had and I soon came across race director and good friend Simone on the bike to lead me into town. It was such a surreal experience those last few hundred metres when I felt I had control on 5th place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I crossed the line in 13:00:37 for 5th place and easily what I feel was my most complete performance to date. To bag a top 5 placing in a field as deep as what Lavaredo had this year I’m over the moon. It was such an enjoyable experience running such a long way with my good friend Pau and I’m stoked we both had good races. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">119km completed and only 2 minutes separated us in the end! Photo - <a href="http://en.grandtrail.info/" target="_blank">Alexis Grand Trail</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Thanks to the Ultra Trail World Tour for supporting me to be at the race this year and also to my sponsors Hoka One One Australia, Compressport, Tailwind Nutrition, Vfuel, Ryders Eyewear, Outdoor Research and Simple Hydration for your ongoing support and providing me with the gear I need to play in the mountains!</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Majell my super crew, I think Ferrari wants to chat and have you in their pit crew bro. Such a rad experience to share with you brother!</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Liz and Baby H, you motivated me more than you know to push hard and to make you proud. It’s so exciting that for my next race I’ll have my two girls there to support me in person :)</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-70113395818655311762016-05-30T04:45:00.003-07:002016-05-30T04:47:44.110-07:00Ultra Trail Australia 100 - 2016 Race Report<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Bib Number 1… no pressure right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">My build up to Ultra Trail Australia 100 had been widely publicised through the newspaper and social media platforms. I’d taken a lot of time away from the sport I love, but it was now time to lace up and see whether I still had what it takes to perform on the international stage against world class runners.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I ran in the Mt Solitary Ultra a few weeks prior as a tune up and got schooled on running up runnable hills by my good mate Jono. I was stoked to see him running so well, but it was definitely a dent in my confidence as usually anything vertical is my strength. He’d also out-climbed me on the steep eastern col of Mt Solitary, so I was clutching at straws to find positives from that race. I was only 45sec behind Jono to take 2nd place so that was good motivation leading into UTA100.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Despite the lay off, I felt remarkably calm and chilled in the build up to UTA. I tried not to buy into the hype of the race too much nor the international competition. It felt like a case of ‘business as usual’ really. I now look back with a smile when I think of how far I’ve come as an athlete in a few short years of racing competitively - I never used to be this relaxed pre-race.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Race morning was warm and I ticked off the usual pre-race things like taping nipples, applying body glide, drinking coffee… all the good stuff. Though I say things felt like business as usual, I must have been a little off my game as I was standing on the start line with my new fluffy pom pom Outdoor Research beanie on and would have started with it had Liz not called out to me. I mean I would have looked pretty suave running back through the crowds of people at the start/finish, but from a performance point of view I’ll stick with a buff. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As soon as we started running along the road at the start I could tell we weren’t running as quick as last year. I’m not a fast starter by any stretch so when I found myself leading the runners along the road it was easy to establish the pace was slower. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As we went down Furbers I passed Mario Mendoza and Rhett Gibson, not going particularly faster than them but preferring to have an open trail in front of me. Jono followed suit and before long we’d bridged a small gap. It stayed this way for a few km before we started the climb up Golden Stairs. A few guys caught up and then pulled away on the Golden climb, but I felt content to cruise up at my own effort and not be dictated by others this early on in the race.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I spent the whole of Narrowneck running with my Compressport team mate Pau Capell and my good friend Freddy Thevenin from Reunion Island. One of my loves of trail running and racing around the world is the friendships created with guys like Pau and Freddy. Speaking in English and my very limited French we managed to translate that we were all going to be locking horns again at the Lavaredo Ultra Trail in late June. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 11px;"><span style="color: yellow;">Cruising along NarrowNeck plateau with Freddy just behind.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">We ran along sitting in 3rd, 4th & 5th places behind Mario who was long gone by now and Jono who was just a couple of hundred metres in front. It was great having Jono there to use as a gauge of effort and pace. The pace along Narrowneck felt surprisingly comfortable despite my lack of speed work in recent months. Speed training and my calves aren’t the best of friends, so unfortunately it’s only natural speed I can take into racing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The single track of Narrowneck has to be some of the sweetest trails on this course and some that I don’t nearly run on enough. Through here the 3 amigos caught up to Jono and we then became 4. It would stay like this through until Dunphys Checkpoint. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Dunphys was smooth as usual, as I already had Tailwind powder in an empty 500mL soft flask in my pack so all I needed to do was add water to that, and top up my other flasks and Simple bottle. One thing I found was because of my speed at the aid stations throughout the race it enabled me to run a cruisier km as the group caught up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Iron Pot has become quite the iconic section of the race over the years, most people remember the didgeridoo along the out and back section and often forget the steep rutted out single track that you have to go up to get there. I felt awesome going up Iron Pot which I was really happy about for 2 reasons. The first being that I simply got out climbed by Jono on the steep stuff a couple of weeks ago so I felt like I’d made progress and 2 - I was stoked to have my climbing legs back knowing I had Lavaredo coming up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Running through to 6ft Track Checkpoint, Pau, Jono and I seemed to have dropped Freddy on some of the runnable fire trail road sections. We were soon 4 again as the Chinese Flyer Yun Yanqiao joined our group. I made a bit of a gap on the guys at the aid station and mandatory gear check. Thanks to Gavin from Tailwind Nutrition for giving us all the heads up on what they were checking, it made for a much smoother transition. It was awesome to see Liz for the first time in the race here, it always gives me a boost. Having my Uncle Ag and mother-in-law crewing as well was pretty special. A quick flask swap and some supplies to get me through to the Aquatic Centre and I left 6ft in 2nd place with no-one behind me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">‘So far so good’ I told myself as I started the run up Megalong Valley Road, whilst still reminding myself that there was still a lot of course to go and to not get complacent. I felt like I was ticking things over really smoothly and I was really enjoying the runnable incline. As you progress up Megalong Valley Road the road basically gets steeper and steeper before the start of the tough Nellies Glen climb. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As I started to hit the slightly steeper fire trail I instantly felt a twinge in my right calf and a throbbing sensation. I ignored it at first in the hope that it was just one of those funny niggles that would go away, but it was the same calf and the same spot that I’d had a small tear 2 weeks out from the Mt Solitary Ultra so I was pretty worried. I ran another few hundred metres before easing off the pace but it was definitely not going anywhere. Not wanting to think too much about the guys behind me I decided I might as well ease off for a short while and see how things go. A couple of times over the next few km I tried to add a little more effort on the steep but runnable incline to no avail.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">At about 52km Pau caught up to me and we had a brief chat, he explained that my mate had some serious cramp problems. I was gutted to hear Jono wasn’t having much luck with his body as I knew how hard he’d trained for this race. As Pau was catching up to me I was thinking in my head that I’d stick with him for a while as I knew his pace must be steady as it took a few km for him to catch up when I eased off the pace. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As soon as I added a touch more effort the calf throbbing and twitching was back. I backed off instantly and told Pau to run well. It was great to see Pau running so strong, he’s definitely one to watch out for in Italy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Nellies Glen was as good as Nellies Glen can be when you have a calf that feels like it’s about to pop. I walked more than I ever have up here and took short but frequent breaks to nurse the calf. Not long before the top Yun caught up to me and we had a brief chat. He was looking so strong as he passed me and I could only dream of feeling that good later in the race.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As I passed our house when we hit the road, thoughts popped into my mind of just calling it a day. I felt like if I wasn’t going to be running to win then was there much point in breaking myself and ruining my chances of running Lavaredo. It’s something that I had thought about during the climb up Nellies. A lot of elite guys seem to take this approach now days and call it quits on an off day to then rebuild quickly for another race. It definitely hasn’t been my ‘style’ of racing up until now as I prefer to start what I’ve finished, but I couldn't stop thinking about potentially missing Lavaredo because of a blown calf.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Meeting up at the Katoomba Aquatic Centre with Liz and my crew again, Liz could tell something was up. I told her the calf wasn't great and I knew that she knew that wasn't great as my chicken leg calves have been a hot topic of discussion at the dinner table of late. More so me complaining that they are always so niggly. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I grabbed what I needed nutrition and hydration wise from her and decided to cruise towards the Fairmont and just see what happens. As much as I wanted to pull the pin I just couldn't do it yet as I felt I hadn’t tried hard enough and given it time to possibly come good. I thought I’d just cruise through to the Fairmont, I’d decided to also inherit a dirty heel strike to minimise the load through my calf. It felt comical how slow I felt I was going, and soon after leaving the Aquatic Centre I was caught and passed by Hoka One One team mate Ben Duffus. To say Ben blew past me like I wasn't moving is a massive understatement. He had the spring in his legs that I wish I had that day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As we started the descent down Giants I’m not sure how but I bridged a fairly decent gap to Ben & Yun. I put it down to local knowledge and the approx. 10-15 times I’d been down Giants in recent weeks training. I knew in training that the section from Giants through to Leura Forest and then up Fern Bower was going to be a crucial part of the race so I’d trained here often. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">As soon as we hit the bottom together order had resumed and Ben and Yun took off into the distance. Through the undulating single track to Leura Forest my calf was having words to me again. Any time I tried to run ‘normally’ forgetting my heel strike it would pop up and remind me that it was still there and still angry. I walked many inclines through here that I wouldn't normally even consider as uphill. It was through here that my Lithuanian friend Andrius caught up to me. Being the gentleman that he is he asked if I was ok, to which I replied that I was just taking in some nutrition as I didn’t want to let on that I was broken - I’d have no chance of catching him then.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I stumbled (literally) my way up Fern Bower and then through the technical single tracks onto Gordon Falls and then onto the Fairmont. Through this section Ryan Sandes from South Africa caught and passed me too, also asking if I was ok. I told Ryan the truth as by this stage I felt my race was going to be over at the Fairmont. My calf wasn’t allowing me to run any inclines or ‘runnable stairs’ so I figured what was the point. As he moved along I watched him run off and started thinking how stupid ultra running is and wondering why I even bother. I got into a pretty negative headspace and bad thought after bad thought crept in. I knew it was happening and normally I’d snap myself out of it, but this time to be honest I really couldn't be bothered. There was going to be no fairytale ending, I wasn't going to get the win I felt robbed of in 2015.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Running the road section into the Fairmont I remembered this section last year as it was where Dylan and Longfei pulled away from me. I smiled and only wished I was running as well as 2015. As I came into the aid station Liz, Ag and Livy were there. I told Liz I didn’t think I was going to continue. We spoke about the calf and long term plans and that maybe it was best to pull the pin and then re-group for Lavaredo. Liz is great at giving me ‘tough love’ during races and thinking clearly when I might not be, so after I’d spent more than enough time messing around at the checkpoint she told me to get going and that she’d see me at the Queen Vic Hospital to reassess things. As I ran away from the checkpoint I thought to myself ‘Stuff that, I’m not having a DNF next to my name’.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The next few km were still a little wobbly but as I hit Tablelands Road something clicked, possibly literally. I seemed to make a really smooth transition to the road section and my normal hatred for the road was nowhere to be seen. I was loving the road, I was able to run freely and I felt like I’d only run 20km. Why, what, when or how this happened I’m not sure. As I was ticking over the km’s on the road I thought to myself ‘I’m not going to overanalyse it, but how has my calf sorted itself out?’ As I caught 50km runners they said lots of nice things and offered great encouragement. I returned the encouragement where I could trying to say at least hello as I passed. It’s a feature of UTA that I love, the social element of many like-minded people all out there battling the course. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I came into QVH with a new lease of life. The previous 25km were forgotten and I focused my attention on finishing off confidently and using this as a platform leading into Lavaredo. I told myself not to get carried away and that things may flare up again. I descended down Kedumba efficiently and felt good with my progress. I knew that somewhere between QVH and the Sewage Treatment Works I would catch Mum and Dad which gave me extra motivation. The usual never-ending descent down Kedumba passed quickly and I actually enjoyed the descent, and my knees behaved which made me smile on the inside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I eased into the first part of the Sublime Point climb knowing not to get carried away and push too hard. I could definitely feel my calf but if I kept the intensity at a certain level things felt ok. I ran far more of this climb than I thought I was going to and when I needed to hike briefly on the 2-3 steeper pinches I hiked with purpose and felt ok. The further up the climb I got the more I smiled as I knew that as I hadn’t caught up to Mum and Dad they were obviously having a good day out. About 400m from the Sewage Treatment Works I saw two orange Mile 27 hats and knew it was them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I battled a few emotions as I caught up to Mum. I was so happy to see her enjoying herself, and knowing that Dad had run every step of the way with her was so cool. It’s a memory that I will not forget any time soon.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 11px;"><span style="color: yellow;">Seeing these two on the trail was unbelievable, I’m so proud of them both!</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The last few km of single track to the bottom of Furbers were fun. I ran a lot slower than I’d like but I was content and confident I’d be able to hold onto 6th place, and happy that I hadn’t broken myself before Lavaredo. Furbers was great and I enjoyed the interaction with fellow competitors as we made our way up this tough finish to this race.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Crossing the line in 10:01 - I was glad to be done.</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">It was awesome having family at the finish line and there to support. I had 2 uncles, 3 aunties, 4 cousins, and Mum and Dad out there running over the weekend. I’m so proud of them all for running and also the rest of the family including Liz’s Mum and other Aunty’s and Uncles supporting us all. </span><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Liz moved ridiculously efficiently all day which was made even more impressive by the fact that she was 29 weeks pregnant. It was awesome seeing her and the bump at the aid stations throughout the day. I’m really looking forward to many more missions with my two girls chasing me around the mountains :)</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">10:01 isn’t the end of the world and I’m taking the positives that I can from my race as I now build towards the Lavaredo Ultra Trail 119km in Italy on the 24th June. Lavaredo is my all time favourite race and I can’t wait to toe the line with Pau, Freddy, Andrius and a long list of other mates. </span><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Thanks to Hoka One One, Compressport, Tailwind Nutrition, Vfuel, Ryders Eyewear, Garmin and Simple Hydration for your support. This is the start of big things this year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Full steam ahead!!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: yellow;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px;"><i>The family photo. From L-R: Cousin Nicole - 22km, Aunty Avis - 22km, Aunty Mitzi - 22km, Aunty Patsy - 22km, Cousins Connor</i></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px;"> </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px;"><i> & Harrison - Kids 1km, Cousin Mike - 22km, Mum - 50km, Uncle Shane 100km, Uncle Glen - 100km, Dad - 50km.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 11px;"><span style="color: yellow;">My motivation :)</span></i></td></tr>
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Photo credits:<a href="http://marceauphotography.com/" target="_blank">Lyndon Marceau - Marceau Photography </a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-607275321657430392015-05-26T00:48:00.000-07:002015-05-26T04:32:13.472-07:00The North Face 100 - Australia 2015 - Race Report<div class="p1">
After recently relocating from Perth to the Blue Mountains only 4 weeks before the TNF100, it was definitely a different feel walking to the start line for what was now a local race for me. Essentially living on the course enabled me to hone in my skills on the TNF course and become as familiar as I could in the build up. </div>
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Race morning was different, I woke up at 1:30am and was wide awake and hungry. In the past I have just fallen back asleep but this time I really needed something to eat. I got up as quiet as I could (staying in our friends' loft apartment meant the kitchen was basically in the same room as the bed, and my sleeping wife) and put some bread in the toaster. I added my new favourite combination that has been passed down to me from my lovely friends the Brischetto family, which includes avocado and Marmite (or for the Aussies, Vegemite). I don't know why or how this flavour combo works but it does. Feeling incredibly satisfied after a bite to eat I was asleep not long after until the alarm went off at 5am.</div>
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I don't think I have ever been so relaxed before a race. Liz, Mum, Dad, my good mate Tom and I all walked down to the race start at Scenic World. After a bit of a jog to warm the legs up I made my way to the start line. Not realising the exact time, I worked my way through the crowd before taking place in about row three. I figured this fitted in well with my plan of making sure I started easy and didn't do anything silly from the start line.</div>
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The pace on the out and back section on Cliff Drive was fast. Instantly I knew we were running faster than last year so I eased off a bit and let the front bunch do their thing. As we hit Furber Steps I started to bridge the gap as we made our way down the stairs. I caught up to Jono, Tucks and Brendan soon after as we made our way through the landslide section and it was just like a training run with my good mates. We hit Golden Stairs and the climb went by effortlessly. </div>
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Being inside the top ten so early on and feeling like things were ticking over nicely I was really happy. The next section along Narrowneck (11km) was one I had done quite a few times in training. I started off running with Jono, Tucks and eventual winner Dylan Bowman from the U.S. As we made our way along the undulations of Narrowneck I began to get pretty cold and the legs just weren't feeling how they probably should. I put my sleeves and gloves back on and even contemplated getting my jacket out. I put the feeling in my legs down to the cold and just did what I had to do to get through to Tarros Ladders. There was a bit of leapfrogging going on and having Dylan and Francois D'haene just ahead and Jono and Tucks just behind gave me motivation to keep things ticking over.</div>
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Tarros Ladder was awesome! The crew who set up that section of the course really do an amazing job. The single track off Narrowneck was even better than what I remember which was a nice surprise. The steep descent down into Dunphy's was fun and it was great to see good mate Kerry Suter there who was doing some live coverage for <a href="http://irunfar.com/"><span class="s1">irunfar.com</span></a>. I briefly stopped with Jono and Tucks to refill my water and then we were off again.</div>
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The next section from Dunphy's checkpoint to 6ft Track checkpoint includes a really fun and steep climb up Ironpot Ridge. It also has a stunning out and back section which includes some amazing guys playing the didgeridoo up on the ridgeline. I remember getting goosebumps here last year as we ran past, and as we made our way up the steep ascent I was hoping they would be there again this year. I was stoked to see that they were, it was another amazing experience.</div>
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It was just before this section that a little drama had unfolded. Jono was out front leading the race like a man on a mission with a group of four including Dylan, Longfei Yan, Francois & Hoka team mate Julien Chorier just seconds behind. I was about 15seconds behind the group of four at this stage. Due to unfortunate circumstances with the race marshall not being at the exact spot for the out and back along Ironpot, the group of four missed the left turn to go and do the out and back section. As I approached, the marshall was yelling at me to turn left to which I calmly replied that I knew the course and where I was going. As I made my way out, Jono then ran towards me and mentioned that the other four had missed a turn.</div>
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I then descended off the ridge and caught up to Jono who confirmed that the others had missed the 1.4km out and back section. Jono and I were both under the presumption that those four runners were going to be disqualified for not sticking to the course which essentially meant we were now in the lead of the TNF100. After a quick gear check I came into checkpoint 3 and there was quite a lot of commotion going on. I quickly found Liz, Mum and Dad who explained that the four guys were being given a time penalty. At first I wasn't quite sure what they meant by that and when someone explained again I instantly had mixed emotions going on inside my head. As I made my way out of the aid station I was followed closely behind by my good mate Dave who was on film and camera duty for the race. I have no doubt that Dave's comments as we left the checkpoint helped shape my race for the next 12km and set me up for a good finish. Dave explained that I now had a bit of a lead on those guys and to just consolidate and keep things together and not do anything too crazy. Dave is a damn experienced guy so I figured his advice was well worth sticking to.</div>
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The climb up the Megalong Valley went really well and I made sure I kept the pace comfortable. I had so much information and thoughts going through my head now so I had to make sure I did what I needed to do. As I ran along the road up to the start of the Nellies Glen climb, part of me was elated to be in the lead of the TNF100 but part of me couldn't quite understand why a time penalty had been given. I decided it was best to try and forget about it for now and enjoy the trails, scenery and the race itself. For those who read my race report from TNF100 2014 you might remember Nellies Glen as where my race completely fell apart. After being in 2nd place and feeling great I got to the top of Nellies to only start vomiting uncontrollably. Undoubtedly this was in the back of my mind as I made my way up the steep stairs in the gully. My legs hit another flat patch going up here. As mentioned earlier I knew where I needed to be on the trail, I knew where I should be able to run to before hiking, but today unfortunately I didn't even get close. "Consolidate" I kept on reminding myself that I didn't have to be doing anything amazing, I just had to keep moving. I hit the top and the brief descent gave me time to get the legs working again. At the top of the climb there were more of my amazing friends including Joe, Paul & Janet. They cheered me on as I ran past. There's just something about seeing friends out on course that gives you a special boost.</div>
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The Aquatic Centre and checkpoint 4 came soon after and it was great to see my family again. One of my goals pre race was to not spend too much time fluffing about at checkpoints this year. After getting what I needed I was jogging through the hall and as I left I heard cheers as Dylan, Francois and Longfei came in. In the back of my mind during the last 12km I figured they were going to catch me at some stage. I quickly went through my head what I was going to do once they caught up. As we made our way along the cliff top track to Echo Point I kept on playing over in my head "What are you going to do Scotty?" I knew there was going to be a decision that had to be made whether to up the pace and join their group or get spit out the back. </div>
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Really there was only ever one answer and that was to join this trio of world class runners and see if I had what it takes to compete at the top level. Drawing motivation from my good mate Blake and his performance at Transvulcania a week earlier I convinced myself that if Blake was game enough to challenge the best then I should follow suit. I was now going into the unknown for me. I had never been at the pointy end of such a competitive field, 60km in to a 100km race. We then ran the beautiful fast single track trails through to Gordon Falls which was an experience I'll never forget. We were all taking turns in the lead and apart from one point where I nearly got dropped off the back I was enjoying myself. Working hard at times to keep up on the flatter & faster sections and then making up ground on the stair ascents and descents. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting my grind on trying to hang on to the main group.</td></tr>
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Not long after the Gordan Falls water point Dylan and Longfei made a bit of a break on myself and Francois. I knew the climb up to the Conservation Hut was coming up so I made sure I prepared myself for that. I felt strong going up here and was still pinching myself that I was leading Francois up the climb. It was overwhelming at times that I was running along with guys who I have so much respect for as athletes and people. We then hit the road section running along to the Fairmont and I could see Dylan and Longfei just ahead, it's amazing how on the trails you feel someone is miles ahead when in reality they were always just around the corner. Their pace up front was just too fast for me and both Dylan and Longfei looked super comfortable as they ran off. I started to make a bit of a gap on Francois so I figured I must be moving ok. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJzdI0dTS3V9_FgdNw3sE_l9h9Mwc2m3Cakswk7unWnSKBzVcfoHvDPRiBi9lZV-VWDzpuicKcB31KzPFbhD9BvBWrtHh63nNBg-3EMjd2BuWgh2xD2bZjKmMGHXitaQFJ3J6wNjqB4J2/s1600/LM_150516_TNF2015_0830_MEDres+%2528logo%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJzdI0dTS3V9_FgdNw3sE_l9h9Mwc2m3Cakswk7unWnSKBzVcfoHvDPRiBi9lZV-VWDzpuicKcB31KzPFbhD9BvBWrtHh63nNBg-3EMjd2BuWgh2xD2bZjKmMGHXitaQFJ3J6wNjqB4J2/s640/LM_150516_TNF2015_0830_MEDres+%2528logo%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ticking things over just before the road section coming into QVH.</td></tr>
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My overall race plan from the start was to try and get to QVH feeling as good as possible and then "race" the final 22km to the finish. I knew this section so well including the 15km climb out of the valley. I arrived at the checkpoint receiving info that the two lead runners were only 2.5minutes up on me which gave me a massive boost. I was feeling great and hearing that gave me even more motivation. I knew what I needed to do on the descent down Kedumba. After covering it in training several times I knew that if I just bombed down with no care for my quads then it was likely going to backfire. I was in third place and moving quite well down Kedumba when I was completely surprised to glance over my shoulder after hearing fast footsteps - it was my Chinese friend YanQiao Yun. He said a quick hi before running past me like I wasn't even moving. I had another "What are you going to do Scotty?" moment as to whether or not to chase him and bridge the gap. Initially I pursued and got on his tail before deciding that this pace wasn't sustainable for me so I backed off the gas. I remembered my race plan of trying to smash the final 15km and I felt that if I ran down with Yun then I wasn't going to be able to do this.</div>
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I hit the bottom and began the ascent to the 91km checkpoint. It was so motivating and fun chatting to the 50km runners as we all made our way up the steep firetrail road. I tried to get into my climbing rhythm as quickly as possible and stay there. Just as I approached the 91km checkpoint I looked ahead and could see Yun. I quickly called out to the volunteers for plain water and someone came over towards me to fill my soft flasks. He did a fantastic job and advised me I was in 4th place but 3rd had just left. I kept an eye on Yun as my flasks were getting filled to get a gauge for how he was climbing. I left the aid station in hot pursuit to try and get back into 3rd place. Soon after, I caught Yun as I powered up the climb. As I went past Yun I remembered the time gap back at QVH only being 2.5mins to Dylan and Longfei. I figured I had been moving pretty well so they might not be too far ahead. As I carried on up the climb some of the 50k runners mentioned that there was another Chinese runner just ahead. It gave me a massive boost and motivation to push some more and try to catch Longfei. Coming around the final bend before the trail flattens out before the treatment works I caught Longfei. I caught him just as we crested the top, nervously I ran past saying a quick hello before bombing the next 500m to make sure he couldn't hang on. I know what his flat speed is like so I tried to catch him by surprise and make a burst.</div>
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I refused to look back, I was told once that looking back can be seen as a sign of weakness so I did all I could to keep my eyes looking in front of me and take the trail as it came. Once I was satisfied that Longfei wasn't going to catch me my focus turned to trying to catch Dylan. I kept thinking to myself during the next 5km or so to the bottom of Furber Steps about the finish from last years race where Stu Gibson and Tucks sprinted it out to the finish line. Secretly I was hoping the same might unfold today. Little did I know that Dylan had absolutely flown during the final leg and was 6mins up the trail.</div>
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As I made my way closer to the base of Furber Steps there were more and more runners on the trail and also tourists. I started calling out well in advance to give them warning that I was coming as I was moving pretty quickly by this stage. I can't explain how enjoyable it was flying over those last few km of singletrack. Once I hit the bottom of Furbers I felt I was home. I had done the Furbers ascent over a dozen times in training and thought even on a bad day I could get up in 12mins or so. I looked at my watch and realised that I had just under 15min to reach the finish line to crack 9hrs. I'm pretty sure I let out a yeehaa as I left the valley and took off up the stairs. I basically grunted my way up every single step trying to say thank you to whoever I could as they made way for me coming up. At one stage near the top I got near the base of a metal set of stairs that must have had 10 people on it, but they all moved across to let me through. I was at the stage where I was basically grabbing anything and everything to help me get up. Trying to make out handrails and posts from tourists arms and legs was a bit of a blur. </div>
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Hitting the boardwalk I had to fight back the emotions as I knew I'd sealed 2nd place. I gave it a bit of a sprint and the cheering welcome of the crowd was absolutely electric. I'll cherish that moment and memory for the rest of my life. Looking up at the clock and seeing a time that started with an 8 was so satisfying, I couldn't believe that I'd run sub-9hrs on the TNF100 course. Soon after I crossed the line Liz came running up and I had to fight even harder to hold off the tears. These are the moments that I cherish. Although I'm often out there alone on the trails training and racing, knowing that I get to see my best friend and wife at the end is what motivates me.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd4_JiOLXaU9c55XcMxlf_SA2y47JouIntmChUO9za3TygvyFJtp23Vbzyc1izM9zL-n3MSAJpgSWFTT7DEtF95nkD0uSQocJTX1sQTcryecCSydCprC6dGkIoAxrDXBD_lXJLR7jUkA9S/s1600/LM_150516_TNF2015_1065_MEDres+%2528logo%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd4_JiOLXaU9c55XcMxlf_SA2y47JouIntmChUO9za3TygvyFJtp23Vbzyc1izM9zL-n3MSAJpgSWFTT7DEtF95nkD0uSQocJTX1sQTcryecCSydCprC6dGkIoAxrDXBD_lXJLR7jUkA9S/s640/LM_150516_TNF2015_1065_MEDres+%2528logo%2529.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking up and seeing a time that started with an 8 made me smile for sure!</td></tr>
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I made my way over to give Mum and Dad a big hug - it was so special to me that they were there to witness my best performance to date. Not because of the time or place but because I truly had the most fun I've ever had during a race and they were there to share that with me.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXOSlvaH2Hj19TWNNTKP-p9sl2M0LSMzZ3iqzGAtAsBkP-xO9oKt91DzyntCpmm7KbJL8y5Tll059MEi8MGVZgjk39caQApCsRuhZg7EPqSW34W0g1HsBUrcs4Qr9sBMnl88xak8oHzTQ/s1600/LM_150516_TNF2015_1099_MEDres+%2528logo%2529-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXOSlvaH2Hj19TWNNTKP-p9sl2M0LSMzZ3iqzGAtAsBkP-xO9oKt91DzyntCpmm7KbJL8y5Tll059MEi8MGVZgjk39caQApCsRuhZg7EPqSW34W0g1HsBUrcs4Qr9sBMnl88xak8oHzTQ/s640/LM_150516_TNF2015_1099_MEDres+%2528logo%2529-1.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Makes all the hard work worth it</td></tr>
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Congratulations to Dylan for the win, it was a pleasure sharing the trails with you, and to Yun who ran a crazy final 50km to bag 3rd place. </div>
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I'm still trying to process what happened last weekend and it still seems a little surreal. It was the performance I had wanted and dreamed about in training but to actually do it was amazing. I'm not 100% sure of my race schedule for 2016 but I have to say I feel like I have unfinished business with the TNF100 so I'll likely be back in a years time to have a crack at the top spot.</div>
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Thanks to all my sponsors & supporters including Hoka One One, Compressport, Tailwind Nutrition, Ryders Eyewear Australia, Simple Hydration, Ay-Up Lighting and Mike at Northside Runners Crowsnest for their continued support of me chasing my dreams. </div>
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Also thanks to my incredible coach Andy, I know I'm bloody hard work at times but your knowledge and training program has definitely taken things to a whole new level!</div>
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Finally thanks to my amazing wife Liz and Mum & Dad for being there to support me as always. Knowing I have such an amazing family supporting me makes this running adventure so much more special. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXldn53gBfNfFwXhx8QbdBegbNfXGfCxo27N4fTn7N8iBvOETfDb9GRKeNRGoK3VRmWpDiNBs4angixrnF5WeM7srLrTOWSbD7eI_whxlQp3dv_b2k0O1FsGnv-pTXnZJLaGbsc9xoIelC/s1600/LM_150516_TNF2015_1142-Edit_MEDres+%2528logo%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXldn53gBfNfFwXhx8QbdBegbNfXGfCxo27N4fTn7N8iBvOETfDb9GRKeNRGoK3VRmWpDiNBs4angixrnF5WeM7srLrTOWSbD7eI_whxlQp3dv_b2k0O1FsGnv-pTXnZJLaGbsc9xoIelC/s640/LM_150516_TNF2015_1142-Edit_MEDres+%2528logo%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sponsor plug...? Heck yes, the new Speedgoats were insane! </td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
All photo's thanks to my good buddy Lyndon Marceau from <a href="http://marceauphotography.com/" target="_blank">marceauphotography</a> @marceauphotography</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-75758992454604504142015-03-19T00:06:00.001-07:002015-03-19T00:06:41.087-07:00Hillary Ultra 2015<p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Standing at the start line on a mild and humid morning in Arataki we were addressed by Sarah Hillary, the daughter of the famous Sir Edmund Hillary, who said a few words and presented the race director Shaun with a silk scarf from a region in Nepal where Sir Ed had spent a fair bit of time. It was a special way to start and before long we were sent on our way by a cheering crowd of supporters and a pretty cool horn that Shaun had brought along especially.</span></div><p></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Running the first section from Arataki to Huia went really well. We started off at a really relaxed pace as we ran through the final stages of darkness and into the new day. The first section was really technical while we were running through the forrest. This for me was typical NZ trails - tree roots, rocks and mud pretty much covered every inch of the trails we were running over. A group of 5 of us including eventual winner Andrius Romonus, 2nd place Chris Morrissey, Sam Clark from Whakatane and Danny Garrett from Auckland ran together as we made our way through to Huia.</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">As we were approaching the Huia Dam, Andrius and I broke away from the other guys as we started to come down a really technical descent. The other 3 guys weren't too far behind and not too long after the Huia Aid Station (14km) Chris caught up to us as we started tackling the biggest climb of the day (approx. 400m+ in 1.5km). It was definitely steep but it went by really quickly. It was during this climb that I realised my legs weren't quite firing how they normally would only 14km into a race. I'd been having hamstring issues in the couple of weeks building up to this race but what I was experiencing really didn't seem to add up. I lead us up this climb at my "climb all day pace" and despite having great energy levels my legs felt weak. I figured it would pass and I kept myself in check over the next few km and decided to take things even easier than I already was. Soon after we reached the top of the climb we were being greeted with absolutely breathtaking views of the coastline and harbour. It's rugged and harsh but has an amazing beauty that takes your mind off the gnarly terrain.</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">As we started the descent to the Whatipu aid station Andrius picked up the pace and his local knowledge of the trails showed as he made a bit of a gap. I continued at my comfortable pace and the gap seemed to remain the same. By the time we left that aid station I was now in the lead after a quick refill of water. I walked briefly to be then joined by Andrius with the intention of running together for a few km to pass some time. Andrius is a general all round nice guy and a great person to be sharing the trails with, he ran a cracking race and deserved the win!</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">As we cruised along the trails I wasn't felling any worse than earlier but things were still far from good. My nutrition was going to plan, I was well hydrated but my legs still felt half asleep. As we made our way over undulating trails I would look down at my legs from time to time and think "C'mon guys, any time you wanna start working that'd be great!"</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Andrius pulled away ever so slightly through some beautiful dense forest trails but was still within sight. Then as we approached the Zion trail section of the Hillary I had my second hiccup of the day. We got to a marker arrow (actually 1/2 an arrow) that pointed left. I obliged and made the turn and carried on along the trail. Andrius was no longer in sight and I was running down the trail not seeing any Hillary marker signs and the only pink ribbon I saw a couple of times was tied tightly around trees (different to all of the previous markers). After going off course in a race back in Perth last weekend I was adamant I wasn't going to do the same here. I ran along for another 5mins and then made the decision that maybe I wasn't on the correct trail. I turned around to run back to the 1/2 arrow and ran for about 5mins before seeing Sam Clark running towards me. He asked what I was doing and I mentioned that I thought we were on the wrong track as I hadn't seen any markers in a while. He informed me that we were on the right trail so I turned around and carried on. Sam and I then basically ran together through to the Piha aid station at 44km. Some wasted time but I was definitely thankful to be on the right trail.</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Mum and Dad had made the trip up to Auckland for the race and it was great to see them at the aid station at Piha. After a slightly longer stop than usual to make sure I had everything I needed I left the aid station now in 3rd place and began my journey along the sand of Piha Beach. As I made my way along the beach it was great to see the Australia/ New Zealand Skyrunning President and good friend Marcus Warner who gave some kind words and a cheer. I then caught up to the energetic and enthused 34km Skyrunners as they had just been set off by R.D Shaun Collins.</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Piha to Bethells was a real low point in the race for me. Mentally I was in the game but sadly my legs didn't have much to offer. After a while it seemed like my quads were trying to take too much of the load off my hamstrings which wasn't much fun. I then joined up with a group of four 34km runners who were absolutely fantastic and I have them to thank for dragging me along for a while and taking my mind off my stupidly tired legs. On another day I might have skipped past offering words of encouragement but today I felt like I just needed to follow and stick as close as I could to them. As we approached the massive sand dunes just outside of Bethells we hit some more runnable terrain so we said our goodbyes there although I did think it was probable I'd see them again.</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I was informed at Bethells I was only 11 minutes behind 2nd place (Sam Clark) and 34minutes behind 1st place (Andrius). Despite the condition of my legs I thought if I can just keep moving forward, I might have a chance of reeling Sam in. A few km after leaving Bethells and after a relatively steep climb up to the top of the coastline I glanced back and didn't like what I saw (no disrespect Chris). Mr Consistent Chris Morrissey caught me up with ease and after a brief chat I explained that Sam wasn't far ahead and for him to 'go get em'. Chris took off looking like he was running a 5km Parkrun and within minutes I looked across the gully and saw Chris far in the distance. Bye Bye 3rd place I thought.</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Somewhere about 5km out from Constable Rd Aid (73km) I stopped to go to the toilet. I got a huge shock to see my urine was bright red. I hadn't ever experienced this before and it really freaked me out. I'd heard about kidney failure etc before and kinda knew what it was all about so I knew something wasn't right. I stopped on the side of the trail to get my mobile phone out to call Mum and Dad to find out what I should do. My main concern was if I carried on that I could really put myself in danger and at risk of doing some serious damage. I had no reception where I was so there was no other option other than to keep going. I slowed down even more, which now meant I was going really slow, as I made my way to the bottom of a massive flight of stairs up to the aid station. Then to my disbelief, I looked up and not too far up the stairs ahead I could see Sam looking a little worse for wear as he made his way up the stairs. As I caught up to Sam he mentioned that he hadn't eaten or been able to drink in a couple of hours. On a side note Sam was backing up at the Hillary Ultra after not only competing in an Ironman event the weekend before, but because of confusion at the transition area Sam was sent out for another lap on the bike, so did an Ironman plus an extra 90 bonus kms on the bike. To get 73km into the Hillary in 3rd place was absolutely incredible!</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">From Constable Rd it was a mere 7km to the finish. I felt confident I could run the final section to Muriwai and not get caught by Sam or anyone else behind me. To be completely honest this was probably the best I felt all day. I laughed as I thought for a brief second that I wished it was a 100km race so I'd have time to try and catch the guys in front of me, then I laughed again and thought "Who am I kidding, you run a good couple of km and think you can run another 20! I don't think so." I was very glad to see the finish line at Muriwai and the sound of the crowd cheering were awesome. 9hrs and 7mins after leaving Arataki I was done. A doctor in the medical tent assessed me and decided that I was ok for now but to keep an eye on things over the next day or two.</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">My overall impressions of the Hillary Ultra is that it was a truly incredible race. The history behind the Hillary Trail and the Hillary family make it particularly special. Shaun the race director and his awesome volunteers did an amazing job at putting on a very professionally run event. Compared to other Skyrunning events I have done this race definitely rates very highly. The trails were stupidly technical and although there were no 2000m+ mountains involved the constant up and down nature of the course made it an absolute beast. 80km with 3700m+ vert gain are decent stats in my book. The pursuit of running from the beach to the sky and back down was a really great experience. Skyrunning NZ style!</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I'd definitely like to return in 2016 with a fresh set of legs and see what I could do here. Despite having a day well below par, my memories of this race are fond and I would highly recommend this race to anyone wanting to experience New Zealand Skyrunning at its finest!</span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></span></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEyF-ZPqiUlmsQOWy6sKYCQyS4AIak0yEMyqbsRP0qZNnj4ExLoRZws4hlRHvLef1YhorAZQHwwjHgo0opAzLqXunRcduvShLdmZIAoi3AaxgC_tAydKdoq4npUK-Vez_EIOAdLptT-nP/s640/blogger-image--114428123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEyF-ZPqiUlmsQOWy6sKYCQyS4AIak0yEMyqbsRP0qZNnj4ExLoRZws4hlRHvLef1YhorAZQHwwjHgo0opAzLqXunRcduvShLdmZIAoi3AaxgC_tAydKdoq4npUK-Vez_EIOAdLptT-nP/s640/blogger-image--114428123.jpg"></a></div>Running along Piha Beach- Photo: Marcus Warner<br><p></p><p class="s4" style="margin: 0px;"><span class="s3"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupA97SVp8X2CaQeLqY73lyT1ltS7EyMWBbD5GDEafEPQvHwJLx7tcLmazvW509bqADYmj2pnsEt90w_WnxmTWyxiyo3i0la2OecNOhx9mZTDq0htVm_B5c9zZvA9yuVycQdKJVPoL_yK5/s640/blogger-image--590508080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupA97SVp8X2CaQeLqY73lyT1ltS7EyMWBbD5GDEafEPQvHwJLx7tcLmazvW509bqADYmj2pnsEt90w_WnxmTWyxiyo3i0la2OecNOhx9mZTDq0htVm_B5c9zZvA9yuVycQdKJVPoL_yK5/s640/blogger-image--590508080.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGC6qPvyeTtAvIm412gxhx31qjsfRPIdqMn0YihKqgij2VKGfV4K6cSpO1IdbddzxaJV0chlCYviXd3mwL9cc75nXx83eFsM3KlqsTWuIVKBBV2WP9VGR6Bu8OAaYrAKgi-LtgRmsDXfO/s640/blogger-image-1990994074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGC6qPvyeTtAvIm412gxhx31qjsfRPIdqMn0YihKqgij2VKGfV4K6cSpO1IdbddzxaJV0chlCYviXd3mwL9cc75nXx83eFsM3KlqsTWuIVKBBV2WP9VGR6Bu8OAaYrAKgi-LtgRmsDXfO/s640/blogger-image-1990994074.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-42785090310035079332014-11-28T22:08:00.001-08:002014-11-28T22:08:13.139-08:00Simple Hydration BottleFill it up with water, <div><br></div><div>Tuck it into your shorts,</div><div><br></div><div>Go for a run!</div><div><br></div><div>There's not really too much to say about the Simple Hydration Water Bottle hence the name. I caught wind of these bottles at the Lavaredo Ultra Trail where a couple of my American mates were using them. I forgot about them until returning to UTMB and heard great things about them once again. Once I got back to Perth I spoke with the Australian distributor and ordered one for myself.</div><div><br></div><div>The reason I personally love this piece of kit is that it enables me to take that extra bit of water on runs and keep my hands free. It's also a great alternative to a handheld for shorter runs or mammoth stair repeat sessions where I can refill water. </div><div><br></div><div>Once tucked into my shorts I barely notice it's there and especially so when I am wearing my Compressport Trail Shorts. Liz asked me at the top of Jacobs Ladder the other day how the bottle was going and I'd forgotten it was on. </div><div><br></div><div>Simple product, great functionality and a new mandatory piece of gear for my training and racing. </div><div><br></div><div>For those in Australia contact Roy at itsextreme.com to purchase one and he offers super quick delivery too!! </div><div><br></div><div>Any questions please ask 😀</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxYlR3I3gAyUnFm5MiSkIE0ilYc_o5ATGfoTzpSKqwsDhXl-eXgRlGmYh_SpLEYT_iMaRdV83ZLf9RcntCYrAH1p-oJcNnhyphenhyphenboBg_G1UPUTJ8dF19KXXPfjnO8YgwmH5Hw9HNqifd6lH1/s640/blogger-image-106382302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxYlR3I3gAyUnFm5MiSkIE0ilYc_o5ATGfoTzpSKqwsDhXl-eXgRlGmYh_SpLEYT_iMaRdV83ZLf9RcntCYrAH1p-oJcNnhyphenhyphenboBg_G1UPUTJ8dF19KXXPfjnO8YgwmH5Hw9HNqifd6lH1/s640/blogger-image-106382302.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-52091736361583259202014-11-10T19:41:00.000-08:002014-11-10T19:41:07.850-08:00What the Huaka you lookin at?<blockquote class="tr_bq">
So you're trying to tell me that these shoes weigh less than 240g each and I'm going to get the same awesome Hoka feel that I've become accustomed to?</blockquote>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are my actual shoes, they like to go fast!</td></tr>
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After watching Hoka team mate <a href="http://sagecanaday.com/" target="_blank">Sage Canaday</a> tear up the <a href="http://www.taraweraultra.co.nz/" target="_blank">Tarawera Ultra </a> earlier this year in a pair of ridiculously bright Hokas I was instantly intrigued as to what he had on his feet. Being blessed with size 8 feet on a good day means I'm not able to get any of the demo shoes on my feet until they are released to the public which is why Sage had them on at Tarawera. Despite Cyclone Lusi bringing a heap of rain, Sage's time of 5:33 for 73km of hilly, muddy and slippery trails suggests that these <a href="http://shop.hokaoneone.com.au/huaka/" target="_blank">Huakas</a> were a pretty darn special shoe.<br />
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After returning from Italy and the Lavaredo Ultra Trail I instantly got in contact with Hoka Australia and requested some Huakas as they had just been released here when I was away. I was like a kid at Christmas, I couldn't wait to get these bad boys on my feet and take them for a spin.<br />
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The upper of the Huakas is a feature that I noticed instantly. Fitting like a glove and really feeling like it conforms to the shape of your foot was great. They feel more breathable than other models which living in Perth I am thankful for!<br />
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The sole of the Huakas is what people all over the globe are loving right now. Hokas new R-MAT material is basically a foam and rubber blend that enables runners to feel both the amazingly soft cushion that Hoka wearers have been experiencing and also has the added benefit of crazy amounts of spring and boing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYSBnX8tn-njboV70_HrEYsNh3k7HNX-MLpOspATSG9I_oRTlJwkPvZ-4UO-2O9DylKCnYnFkdAWOORDpx8dbxKjRh6YIhUuiZ5TsY7_RV3yyzCtR1172M4YKiZdkJe-Q7XMBc_wiYBJX/s1600/cliptiggerhappy3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYSBnX8tn-njboV70_HrEYsNh3k7HNX-MLpOspATSG9I_oRTlJwkPvZ-4UO-2O9DylKCnYnFkdAWOORDpx8dbxKjRh6YIhUuiZ5TsY7_RV3yyzCtR1172M4YKiZdkJe-Q7XMBc_wiYBJX/s1600/cliptiggerhappy3.gif" height="400" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYSBnX8tn-njboV70_HrEYsNh3k7HNX-MLpOspATSG9I_oRTlJwkPvZ-4UO-2O9DylKCnYnFkdAWOORDpx8dbxKjRh6YIhUuiZ5TsY7_RV3yyzCtR1172M4YKiZdkJe-Q7XMBc_wiYBJX/s1600/cliptiggerhappy3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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The grip on the Huakas is another fantastic element to this shoe. They are actually filed under the "Road" category on the various Hoka One One websites but they are equally at home on the trails. I've found myself looking down as I'm working my way up some steep hills quite amazed at how much traction I am getting for a "road shoe".<br />
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A last minute sign up for a local road half marathon a few weeks ago enabled me to find out first hand how fast these shoes really felt. They offered a responsive and smooth ride. Each time my foot was landing it didn't feel too soft or too firm which is essential for any running shoe in such a short race. Overall I was very happy with how enjoyable they made my first and only road race of the year.<br />
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I see myself running in the Huakas more and more. I think that for smaller runners and runners who have good form they will be a great everyday shoe and also suitable for anything up to 100km on race day. For larger runners I would suggest bringing these speedsters out on race day or for specific weekly sessions.<br />
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Hopefully that shows some insight into the new Hoka One One Huaka running shoes and if you have any questions regarding these shoes or any others please feel free to contact me via my social media.<br />
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Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ScottHawkerAthletePage?ref=aymt_homepage_panel" target="_blank">Scott Hawker - Athlete Page</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/scottyhawker" target="_blank">@scottyhawker</a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-37539732473840755112014-09-16T18:18:00.001-07:002014-09-16T18:18:06.944-07:00UTMB 2014 - What an adventure!As I have mentioned earlier, it has been a dream of mine for a couple of years now to one day run in the UTMB. To actually be standing on the start line of what I regard as the biggest and best ultramarathon race in the world was so special.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Athlete signing event with my Compressport teammates.<br />L-R Nuria Picas, Seb Chaigneau, Julien Chorier, Fernanda Maciel, Zigor Iturrieta & Me. Photo: Compressport</td></tr>
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The atmosphere on the line was absolutely electric and everything I had imagined it would be and more. In true UTMB style the clouds gathered together and the rain started to fall thick and fast. Looking around it was quite comical seeing literally hundreds of people simultaneously take off their packs and get their waterproof rain jackets out. Whilst all of this was going on I kept reminding myself of how hectic the start was going to be and how important it was for me to control my ego early on and settle into the race at my pace.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crazy times at the start line. Over 2300 runners charging through the streets of Chamonix. Photo: Xtof Aubonnet</td></tr>
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The first 8km or so through to Les Houches was full on. People lined the streets of Chamonix and as we made our way out of town the cheering and support from hundreds of people didn't ease. The first climb up and over to Les Contamines was good, I settled into a good rhythm and got the job done. Being the first climb of the day it was always going to be easy over-doing it, but I kept reminding myself how far I still had to run. Remembering that I had over 140km to go after this climb made it pretty easy to take things comfortably. The grassy descent was tough, it was here that I watched several runners I had been cruising along with take off down the grassy banks. It was terrain that I had never run on before and saying I felt uncomfortable on it is an understatement.<br />
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Coming into Les Contamines was like running into a concert. Despite the heavy rain there were people lining the streets 2-3 rows deep in places. Les Contamines was also the first point I got to see Liz who was a welcome sight in the ever deteriorating weather. She gave me coffee and some more Tailwind to get me through to the next crew access point in Courmayeur.<br />
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I felt really good from Les Contamines and was hiking strong up to Croix du Bonhomme (2443m) and through to Col Chécrouit. I bumped into a Danish runner and we hiked and ran together for a large chunk of the climb. Turns out he's spent time in both New Zealand and Australia over the years, it was great conversation that ensured time passed quickly.<br />
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The relatively steep and switchback style descent into Courmayeur didn't go as smoothly as I'd hoped. Things just didn't quite feel right. That said, it was really nice looking down towards the town and seeing all the lights and the glow in the valley. Once I hit the valley floor things resumed to normal and I ran into the Courmayeur aid station feeling great. Once again I didn't hang around for long, just grabbing the necessities before heading off again.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courmayeur Aid station, I've got how far to go? Photo: Ian Campbell, irunfar.</td></tr>
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The climb up to Refuge Bertone was short and steep and then there was some more runnable or what should have been more runnable terrain through to Arnuva. It was around 85km that I lost concentration a little and didn't quite lift my foot high enough when running on some technical trail. I banged my foot pretty hard on a rock and fell to the ground like a sack of potatoes. I got myself up slowly with my whole foot throbbing and sharp pains coming from my outside 3 toes. The first step I took I nearly fell over again as the pain was so bad. I gathered myself for a few minutes before I started walking along the trail towards Arnuva and the start of the tough Grand col Ferret climb.<br />
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The tough climb up Grand col Ferret turned out to be the biggest march I've done all year. Foot sore and ego destroyed, I slowly dragged what felt like a broken body up and over the monster climb. By this stage I'd nearly been running the longest amount of time I have ever run before and I was definitely feeling pretty sleepy. Running through the night is a really fun experience but I'm still learning ways to keep alert and focussed as the new day emerges.<br />
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Little did I know that my race was about to take a turn for the worse on the descent from Grand col Ferret. Without going into too much detail, I've now learnt how bad chaffing can get and how painful it is trying to run when this is going on. It seems so ridiculous that it wasn't my legs or even my bashed up foot that was halting my progress in the mountains. Along this descent I was caught by eventual 3rd place female Nathalie Mauclair. I set myself a goal of doing whatever I needed to do to hang on to her and keep moving. I figured even hanging with her for a few minutes was better than going at my own pathetic pace which had to be a positive.<br />
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It hurt, I mean it really hurt. I was forced to almost completely change my running stride and gait in hope of finding a jog/shuffle/hike technique that enabled me to keep moving forward. It must have been around La Fouly (107km) that I almost fell down a muddy descent and pulled away from Nathalie. I felt completely out of control sliding down the muddy slope but I was moving the fastest I had in many hours so I wasn't asking questions about my methods. After what seemed like a lifetime I stumbled my way into the Champex-Lac aid station. It was so good to see Liz again after what had been quite an eventful few hours in the mountains.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_lzDrcYbWt2gRnmpeNYucrLSxO1eLPw0oZbHz5O_5W8TJt_uiDC8t2PSx1Lon8h-Y_AKjektZX71uqX7aZRp2d3lWwd7cAT-9LbaH18vzMLqkMHKNNtNJ0H8YxOQn6-sCyeAb1M9APv7d/s1600/IMG_5976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_lzDrcYbWt2gRnmpeNYucrLSxO1eLPw0oZbHz5O_5W8TJt_uiDC8t2PSx1Lon8h-Y_AKjektZX71uqX7aZRp2d3lWwd7cAT-9LbaH18vzMLqkMHKNNtNJ0H8YxOQn6-sCyeAb1M9APv7d/s1600/IMG_5976.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wondering how on earth I'm going to finish this race. Photo: Xtof Aubonnet</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz reassuring me that I'll get there. Photo: Xtof Aubonnet</td></tr>
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I took more time than usual here, making sure I had everything I needed and also trying to ensure I left the checkpoint feeling better than when I had come in. This proved to be quite difficult as I was feeling absolutely rubbish. It was here that I looked down at my elevation tat and just about fell over in shock at what I saw. From Champex-Lac there are basically three big climbs to the finish with the last one being the biggest of the three. I spoke with Liz and explained the situation. My current situation at that point made every "tough spot" in every other race I have done this year seem incomparable. I said to Liz that even if I could somehow drag myself up and over the first climb, I still had two massive climbs to go.<br />
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Whilst all of this was going on at the aid station I was trying to make sure that I was constantly holding onto something as I was feeling light headed and a little wobbly in the legs. I decided that the longer I hung around at the checkpoint, the longer it was going to take me to get to the finish line. Kissing Liz goodbye, I shuffled my way out of the checkpoint.<br />
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A painful 200m later I got my phone out and called Liz. I told her I didn't think I could go on. I'd never felt pain like this before but I didn't want to pull out of my first 100miler. Liz put things into perspective for me, reminding me that in every 100miler there are going to be lots of low points, but if I wanted to finish I just had to keep putting one foot in front of the other. She explained how long it would realistically take me to finish at the pace I was going at and said that if that's what I wanted to do, then she'd be there waiting for me at the next checkpoint. This gave me the boost I needed to hung up, put my phone away and keep moving forward.<br />
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In summary, the final three climbs were really tough. Not much more than a clumsy shuffle was going on as I tried different methods of moving across tough terrain the fastest I could. By the time I got to these three climbs it had warmed up quite a lot so I also now had to ensure I carried enough fluid to get me through to the next aid station. Just before I got into the start of the first climb I was just about broken. I'd taken my pack off, laid down on some stupidly rocky and rough terrain and planned on having a sleep. Liz must have known something because as I was about to put my head down she sent me a really lovely text that provided me the motivation I needed to get myself off the ground and put one foot in front of another again.<br />
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The final climb proved to be a whole different beast. I'd done the final 17km of the course about 6 days earlier with my good friend Timo, but for whatever reason nothing seemed familiar at all. The final climb seemed to have a dozen false summits before finally reaching the top of Tête aux vents. From here I remembered it being pretty technical but downhill to La Flégère and then a mixture of tight singletrack and 4wd trail to Chamonix. I remember the traverse across to La Flégère to seemingly take a lifetime. Constant ups and downs and the technical terrain was playing havoc on my bashed up feet and toes. It's the first time in nearly 2 years I have had sore toes in any run regardless of the distance but the aftermath of UTMB ensures I will likely lose 7-8 toenails. I believe it is likely a combination of long downhill sections and also some really slippery terrain where I was probably clawing my toes in order to try and maintain traction.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_ZgtSX08ZicM9QUrQdeYbMfe5o-nNdBlx9xwTpDjsaIdjtgcHm8MwxJ2zvrVwIa6VuOa9QwdZgqi6I9XSl8ybjPCNFITW-CnPvX0z6IYU06JNsjWxC7ss04ARYyCkilIIm9PMzDx8_qT/s1600/IMG_5949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_ZgtSX08ZicM9QUrQdeYbMfe5o-nNdBlx9xwTpDjsaIdjtgcHm8MwxJ2zvrVwIa6VuOa9QwdZgqi6I9XSl8ybjPCNFITW-CnPvX0z6IYU06JNsjWxC7ss04ARYyCkilIIm9PMzDx8_qT/s1600/IMG_5949.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'd wanted to see a mountain goat the whole time in Chamonix, so seeing this guy near the top of Tête aux Vents gave me a real boost.</td></tr>
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It wasn't until I reached the streets of Chamonix that I believed I was going to finish. I was out on my feet. Running the final few hundred metres being cheered on by hundreds of supporters was an absolutely incredible way to finish what was truly the toughest challenge I have ever faced both physically and mentally.<br />
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Seeing Liz at the finish line waiting for me just about brought me to tears, it had been an epic journey and I was so happy to finish. I am so thankful of her staying up for over 28 hours to support me and look after me when I wasn't able to make decisions for myself. I vividly remember saying over and over to Liz "I did it". For the last 13hrs or so I was really unsure of whether I had what it took to finish. I'm so glad I dug deep and although I didn't quite have the 100 mile debut I was hoping for I can look back happy knowing that I finished UTMB. I feel like it was both of us combined that helped me get to the finish, I definitely didn't feel alone out there on the trails.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cIusu5FCi6BTIbonMsBRyPfYC3cS5Kp3J3X60ez08Sd1090BcYa2UCm-07umzMjZI4xuuRgjhIUMPBJrSwnYkcIMQHmm298a3_Tff1IducMoB5vwQXiaJKXyGDAAFofKnlP8Akl5bG-f/s1600/IMG_5993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cIusu5FCi6BTIbonMsBRyPfYC3cS5Kp3J3X60ez08Sd1090BcYa2UCm-07umzMjZI4xuuRgjhIUMPBJrSwnYkcIMQHmm298a3_Tff1IducMoB5vwQXiaJKXyGDAAFofKnlP8Akl5bG-f/s1600/IMG_5993.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A special moment with Liz at the finish line. Photo: Xtof Aubonnet</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkOnkRvGEDGOsBqGnh2ruUbuMXZyXQNKkrSHgzUJSNKZKdPvjz4vk-6F_JbD2Ladlx1nrikalV5JvfnAGqVTaUUgmvGJXZOeHhgd527qYrZLZVhem7EqPw-8sUetBSLyUrX2ZFaBkZLrm/s1600/IMG_5992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkOnkRvGEDGOsBqGnh2ruUbuMXZyXQNKkrSHgzUJSNKZKdPvjz4vk-6F_JbD2Ladlx1nrikalV5JvfnAGqVTaUUgmvGJXZOeHhgd527qYrZLZVhem7EqPw-8sUetBSLyUrX2ZFaBkZLrm/s1600/IMG_5992.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was so great finally running under the finish arch. Photo: Xtof Aubonnet</td></tr>
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Over the past two weeks since UTMB I have sat down at the computer several times and attempted to write this race report but I just hadn't had time to process the race and break it down into manageable size pieces. I still don't feel that I have found the words to express how difficult and challenging this race was. I knew going into the race that I had indeed chosen one heck of a race as my debut 100 miler but I really had no idea how tough it was actually going to be. Regardless of how much pain UTMB gave me, I will hopefully be back in 2015 for another crack with all of the experience I gained from this year's adventure.<br />
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Thanks to my amazing sponsors Hoka One One, Compressport, Tailwind Nutrition, Ay-Up Lighting Systems, and RaceReady for enabling me to take part in this amazing race, I'm so thankful for the continued support.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-78026303142603087162014-07-28T23:42:00.001-07:002014-07-28T23:42:25.267-07:00Ay-Up Run Specific Kit Lighting System Review"Dude move over there's a car coming". This is what I heard as I approached a group of runners as I ran along the trail towards them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL2p-TE5dolpdRcsZBHfiboL52e3NCU0Y4h6ypxUK0vQJEKmxhHFAqaqIoqRhee8R65Mg0eg8EseEfXxOLaJ6skYjnXSO_Ynsrjoe2DRPhzh2NXIdolasBiK6rmFa7UhWWxv4qW69MBLH/s640/blogger-image--1907607991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL2p-TE5dolpdRcsZBHfiboL52e3NCU0Y4h6ypxUK0vQJEKmxhHFAqaqIoqRhee8R65Mg0eg8EseEfXxOLaJ6skYjnXSO_Ynsrjoe2DRPhzh2NXIdolasBiK6rmFa7UhWWxv4qW69MBLH/s640/blogger-image--1907607991.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Carole Pipolo</td></tr>
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All jokes aside though, my new Ay-Up Run Specific Kit quite possibly has a brighter light beam than that of my 2003 Hyundai. </div>
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When I received a neat wee package in the mail I was pretty excited to finally have my own set of Ay-Ups to try out and use. Several of my mates own them and all rave about how fantastic they are, so after having a bit of a play around with theirs I couldn't wait to have my own set.</div>
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I thought it would be of use to go over some different components of the Ay-Up and explain in more detail how they work. </div>
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<b>Putting it together:</b></div>
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When I first attached the battery pack to the head strap and connected the cable to the lights I was surprised at how simple it was. This gave me confidence leading into the Lavaredo Ultra Trail where I wasn't sure if I would have to swap the battery over during the night. I had no issues with having to do this in the dark as it really couldn't be any easier. No mucking around with AA or AAA batteries for this trail runner!</div>
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<b>The fit: </b></div>
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I'll be honest, when I first looked at and then put on the Ay-Up, I noticed that it looked a touch bulkier than my current head lamp. I knew this before I received it though as I was able to compare specifications from the relevant websites. </div>
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Then I put it on and WOW! Despite being ever so slightly heavier and bulkier the Ay-Up Run Specific Kit fits like a glove. It feels like the design team have really nailed the "harness" that the lights and battery pack are part of. The back part of the harness has been cleverly designed as it feels like it really balances the weight of the battery pack well while also providing a really secure attachment. I have used the Ay-Up for over a month now and have found there is absolutely no bounce when fitted correctly. This is something I was weary of on technical terrain especially. I was pleasantly surprised. </div>
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There are adjustment straps on either side of the harness and also one on the top too. These provide great personalisation as far as fit goes and I have also found this very useful when running in cooler temperatures or varying temperatures where I might have a buff/beanie on and then need to take it off. Within a few seconds I am able to adjust the head straps to have yet again another great fit.</div>
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<b>The light system:</b></div>
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This is the make or break part of any head torch for obvious reasons. <br />
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It doesn't matter how comfortable, how cheap or how great a set of lights look if they don't perform in the field.</div>
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This is where Ay-Ups really shine!! (pun 100% intended) I'm not really a technically savvy kind of guy, I prefer to leave that side of things to the experts who write about lumens and power output etc etc.<br />
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I'll give my own basic run-down of how the lights performed in my experience. I'm guessing that this is what people are wanting to know about in relation to trail running at night. </div>
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Firstly, there are three light beam settings to choose from. Low, medium and high. Seems pretty basic huh? That's because it is. In my opinion, Ay-Up are able to use a relatively no-frills approach with regards to their run specific lighting system. Because there are two light sources with these units there isn't much need to complicate things with diffusers etc. </div>
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Secondly, and most importantly, the ability of the Ay-Ups being able to point one light beam at your feet and one slightly further in the distance is an absolute master stroke. Running fast on technical trails during the day time is hard enough as it is, so now that I'm able to attack the trails at night with the same intensity I couldn't be happier! </div>
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I will explain the benefits and how I go about using the different settings during a night time trail run:<br />
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<li>Basically when the trail isn't demanding too much attention because of the terrain I will generally have the light on the lowest setting. Main reason being saving light power.</li>
<li>When the trail is quite technical I will often opt for the medium or high setting. If there are big rocks/boulders around I will go with the medium setting as if on high sometimes the bright light beam can cause unwanted shadows on the trail from the bigger objects. </li>
<li>I also take into account factors such as fog/mist or whether I'm running behind someone else. If I'm behind someone the Ay-Up on medium or high will cast a pretty big shadow and often drown out your mates light!</li>
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The fact that majority of the time you are able to use the low or medium settings is a huge bonus when it comes to the battery life. It means being able to run for longer without having to change batteries. And we all know how much fun it is running for really long amounts of time!<br />
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You can find more info here: <a href="http://www.ayup-lights.com/lighting-kits?product_id=1" target="_blank">www.ayup-lights.com</a></div>
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Hopefully that gives a basic insight into the Ay-Ups and how they perform on the trails. </div>
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Any questions please feel free to leave a comment. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-86573409823499081602014-07-03T08:51:00.001-07:002014-07-04T12:49:18.711-07:00Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2014Normally in any story there is a beginning, a middle and an end. My race at the Lavaredo Ultra Trail felt like it also had three different parts. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_bqz1BKIg9NhgaGhFOgsNCewDLTHxe2Kv_b3LujmLb33BekQQ0-RiK7iG6KZxOZxmlIsSdBddVbnoP-wO_b_qMwEnRyRBFPKdLEFcuvifanVIyOHP6ZdRaJZYqGk9GR_54T5Ylu0XbUnn/s640/blogger-image--441380920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_bqz1BKIg9NhgaGhFOgsNCewDLTHxe2Kv_b3LujmLb33BekQQ0-RiK7iG6KZxOZxmlIsSdBddVbnoP-wO_b_qMwEnRyRBFPKdLEFcuvifanVIyOHP6ZdRaJZYqGk9GR_54T5Ylu0XbUnn/s640/blogger-image--441380920.jpg"></a></div><i>At the start line talking with friends.</i><br><div><br></div><div><b>The beginning...</b></div><div><br></div><div>Walking from where we were staying at Hotel Cappaninna down to the start line was exactly how I envisioned it would be. My European race dreams of walking down a cobblestone street lined with cheering supporters to the start was literally unfolding before my eyes and I was struggling to take it all in. </div><div><br></div><div>Once we got to the start line there were literally thousands of people cheering, camera flashes going off left, right and centre. There was a designated roped off area for the elite athletes to congregate which was where I headed after Liz had found Marie who was going to be helping with support for the race.</div><div><br></div><div>The atmosphere was electric as the announcers started the countdown and before long, roughly 999 other competitors and I made our way through the streets of Cortina and out of town. We climbed gradually for a few km on sealed road where I was able to catch up with fellow Hoka mate Dave Mackey and others. I remember Mike Foote making a joke about running out of water which emphasised the relaxed manner we were running in. </div><div><br></div><div>The first section through to Ospitale at 18km was quite surreal. Leading up to the race I tried to imagine what it would be like running through the night with many other runners during a race. I must admit the first 18km ticked over before I realised how far we'd gone. The first section involved a mix of smooth single track and 4wd trails and also some quite tight and technical single trails that ensured you were paying full attention. It was through here that Dave caught up again and asked if I'd heard the splash? Turns out Dave needed to cool off in one of the lakes en route to Ospitale at 18km.</div><div><br></div><div>The Ospitale aid station was busy with many supporters and volunteers but it still seemed organised as I found Liz easily. After a quick bottle change I was off on my way through to 33km and the Federaveccia aid station. </div><div><br></div><div>This section was quite uneventful but still offered the sounds and sight of amazing waterfalls and creeks as we wound our way through some beautiful single trail sections. </div><div><br></div><div>Arriving at Federaveccia I once again had a rather quick stop only getting the bare essentials before heading off up towards Lago di Misurina and the next aid station at Rifugio Auronzo.</div><div><br></div><div>I was secretly looking forward to the climb up to Rifugio Auronzo as I had covered it in training the week earlier. I enjoyed running around Lago di Misurina and Lago Antorno with my new Lithuanian friend Gediminas Grinius.</div><div><br></div><div><b>The middle...</b></div><div><br></div><div>I was feeling pretty good along the road climb up to Lago Antorno and slowly pulled away from Gediminus. I felt great and was running free. All was going well for the next 10minutes or so but then I started to have really sharp pains in my stomach. Exaggerations aside, it felt like I had something sharp being pushed into my stomach. I eased off the pace and told myself to let this come good before starting with any kind of intensity again. </div><div><br></div><div>I slowly made my way up the climb and as I started to hit the steeper grades it felt like I was moving backwards. Even the tension in my body caused from walking was giving me magnified pain in my stomach. About here was where Mike Foote, Freddy Thevenin, Gediminas and <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">some other runners made their way past me like a Congo line of mountain goats. I knew that if I could hang on the back I might get helped up the climb but I had no response. I felt like the climber being dropped on the Pyrenees stage in le Tour. </span></div><div><br></div><div>The next 30mins or so up to Rifugio Auronzo wasn't pretty. I felt almost lifeless as I dragged what felt like a broken body up the climb. Each step hurt and I was only 48km into a 119km run through the Italian Dolomites. </div><div><br></div><div>It was great to arrive in the warm Rifugio where hot tea and fresh supplies awaited. After following Liz to where my gear was I received an update from Marie, after I'd had a moan and groan about how sore my stomach was, that I was only 8mins behind the race leader, Anton Krupicka from the USA. </div><div><br></div><div>I left the aid station with what felt like a bit of wind in my sail finally and was optimistic after hearing the time update. A slight hurdle literally 15 metres outside the Rifugio was that it was damn cold out now (it was about 4am) and I had to stop to put my jacket on. </div><div><br></div><div>From Rifugio Auronzo to Cimabanche at 67km it is all a bit of a blur. I remember running the flat section underneath the majestic TRE CIME du Lavaredo with Spanish runner Yerey Duran and then trying for dear life to keep up with him as we started the massive descent down the valley. It was as we started descending that I found the pain in my stomach had gone but I had a similar pain now in my chest but it was far worse. </div><div><br></div><div>Literally every time my foot landed I had a breathtaking pain in my chest that wasn't going away. I stopped to walk many times on this descent and twice sat down asking myself the question of what I was going to do. It seemed a little dramatic to be considering pulling out of the race at the 50ish km mark but I was in a real state. </div><div><br></div><div>Along here I was passed by more runners than I can remember with every one of them offering their support and assistance. I kept telling myself that it would pass and that it couldn't possibly last forever. FINALLY I hit the bottom of the climb and as I was walking along a slight incline my friend Antoine Guillon from Team WAA (France) approached asking if I was ok. I told him I wasn't great and that I had pains in my chest. </div><div><br></div><div>Little did I know but this was the defining moment in my race. As he jogged past I said to myself that if I could run with Antoine to the next aid station at 67km I was going to be able to pull out quicker and end the pain. </div><div><br></div><div>The next 8km or so was probably the toughest 8km I have ever run. I was struggling to breathe properly and the pain I had in my chest was borderline unbearable. I kept saying in my head, just hang on Scotty, it'll all be over soon. </div><div><br></div><div>Whether it was the excitement of arriving at the aid station, my lack of short term memory or something else I'll never know but for some reason I ran out of the checkpoint with a smile on my face for the first time in nearly 30km. </div><div><br></div><div>After looking at the elevation profile cut out I had with me I knew we had a long gradual (by European standards) climb ahead. It was here that I felt like I just got to work and made my way up the long slow climb as efficiently as possible. I ran this whole section with Vincent Dellbarre another good friend from Team WAA. It almost felt like we were working together as we climbed, with one of us always taking charge and ensuring that there was no slacking off. </div><div><br></div><div>The descent into the next aid station at Malga Ra Stua was a lot of fun. No chest pain at all and I just followed Vincent's lead down the technical slopes to the aid. We chatted about my next race the Ice Trail Tarantaise which is an all time favourite of Vincent's. </div><div><br></div><div>Another pretty quick stop here grabbing the essentials before heading off to tackle the next 20km section which was going to be a tough one. Over the next 20km we would climb over 1200m as we made our way through the the amazing Falzarego Valley and up to Falzarego Pass. </div><div><br></div><div>Not far after we left the aid station I slowly pulled away from Vincent and was now jogging the gradual climbs solo. This didn't last long though as Antoine and Christophe le Saux (Team WAA) caught up so we all ran together for the next 1.5hrs or so up the valley.</div><div><br></div><div>The valley was one of the most incredible things I have ever seen. Waterfalls that burst out the side of mountains with so much power and force, creeks that required more than a slight glance to see up the whole way. Through here was a section that brought me back to when I did the Coast to Coast in NZ back in 2011. There was a long flattish section of running over rocky boulders and crossing rivers that was just like running down the Deception River heading towards Klondyke Corner at the end of day one of the race. </div><div><br></div><div>Here I pulled away from Christophe and Antoine and I got to the water point at 88km with a bit of a gap. The volunteers here, like every other aid station were so friendly and full of support. After a quick exchange I was off on my way and as I looked ahead I could see the red shirt of Nuno Silva from Portugal. </div><div><br></div><div>This gave me a massive boost as I slowly but surely reeled him in. As we hit the steeper part of the climb heading up to Passo Falzarego I managed to jog a section he was walking and passed him offering moral support.</div><div><br></div><div>Then came the undulations and then the descent to Rifugio col Gallina which was easily my best section of the race. Through here I caught up to and passed my friend Cyril Cointre (Team WAA), the strong Italian <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ivan Greonazzo</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> and the two French brothers Sylvain and Sebastien Camus. </span></div><div><br></div><div>I came into the aid station at Rifugio col Gallina feeling phenomenal. My race felt like it was back on track and I was having an absolute blast running through the Dolomites. It almost didn't seem real at times, almost too perfect. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTx-oB8xPH44tWkypHTMmmqOZxlVs_s3R6u4_fip1nBFuxR4VnpgetuGxZbgQLZVTH_WlR8cLxAN-_xPtuvLRxS2uRome_4CB3MKXER2XGf4wheCyUfK02Vag03_2CmGxsL5pknVOCzw6/s640/blogger-image--1199247456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTx-oB8xPH44tWkypHTMmmqOZxlVs_s3R6u4_fip1nBFuxR4VnpgetuGxZbgQLZVTH_WlR8cLxAN-_xPtuvLRxS2uRome_4CB3MKXER2XGf4wheCyUfK02Vag03_2CmGxsL5pknVOCzw6/s640/blogger-image--1199247456.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>Cruising up to the summit near Rifugio col Gallina.</i></div></div><div><br></div><div>The next few km after the aid station was really muddy and technical before we started a short but oh so steep climb that had the legs working hard. Somewhere along the tops near Cinque Torri, another iconic landmark in the Dolomites I looked back and saw some figures in the near distance getting closer. Whether it was being up above 2400m or something else I'm not sure but I felt like I had the wind taken out of my sail. </div><div><br></div><div>It felt like my legs wanted to work but my breathing got heavier and heavier. Along here I had another real rough patch where I felt sluggish and light headed. I remember at one point I laid down in the snow and as my eyes opened I swear I was seeing stars. In my daze I pulled out my emergency gel from my pack and got that down. I needed some energy and I needed it fast. Before I knew it though the Spaniard Queral Ibanez Remigio (eventual 6th place) and Italian Ivan Greonazzo (5th place) passed me so I came into Passo Giau in 7th place. It was a little demoralising to have those two re-pass me but it's all part of the game. </div><div><br></div><div>As I was leaving the aid station I could hear people cheering as more runners were coming in. I glanced back and saw Cyril come flying down the hill obviously feeling good again. Here we go I thought, this top 10 finish is going to be hard work to hold onto. </div><div><br></div><div>Not long after Passo Giau I was caught by Cyril but I managed to climb with him to the top of a nasty 200m+ climb in 1km. From the top it was pretty much undulating/downhill to the finish line at Cortina. </div><div><br></div><div><b>The End...</b></div><div><br></div><div>Little did I know but the race was far from over. I was pretty keen to just cruise the last 16km with Cyril and enjoy the last of my Dolomites experience. This obviously wasn't going to happen as Cyril informed me that Italian runner Marco Zanchi was fast approaching behind us. I was feeling good so I decided to pass Cyril as I wasn't keen on losing another place this close to the finish. As I tip toed my way through the incredibly technical terrain I reminded myself to be smart and not over do it. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKomPJKUstTlYj5hq2f-07NWt5fcoMEGJJcIJwDMh7Kxx2ymRAzA8-DhXWDFYeAcmWq7NHhlRXcdD0izmGtsL7LtrJR6ABIDIyMApnaZF-XRXlRDvzpHXC7dw6DGsfXIPfk7rkzPW_xSt0/s640/blogger-image-1684528837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKomPJKUstTlYj5hq2f-07NWt5fcoMEGJJcIJwDMh7Kxx2ymRAzA8-DhXWDFYeAcmWq7NHhlRXcdD0izmGtsL7LtrJR6ABIDIyMApnaZF-XRXlRDvzpHXC7dw6DGsfXIPfk7rkzPW_xSt0/s640/blogger-image-1684528837.jpg"></a></div><i>It was this kind of muddy & rocky terrain where I fell and banged my knee.</i></div><div><br></div><div>Literally 10 seconds later my race threatened to fall apart one final time. As I was running through a really muddy and rocky section I took a fall and instantly I felt my world come crashing down in front of me. I lay there in the mud holding my knee and shin yelling in agony. I'd never fallen this hard before, let alone 110km into a running race. It hurt so bad. Cyril was there trying to help me up but as soon as I put weight through my right leg it buckled beneath me. </div><div><br></div><div>Within a few moments Marco caught up to us. I told them to go and that I'd be fine. Cyril gave me an anti-inflammatory tablet to take for the pain which was an absolute race saver.</div><div><br></div><div>I pulled myself up out of the mud and leant up on a big boulder as I contemplated how I was going to finish this race. I remember my mind wandering when I somehow came across thoughts of my pre-race chat with my Dad who always tells me the quote "Just Do It" before races. Dad has always loved this quote whether it was when I was struggling to wake up for work in school holidays or struggling to find motivation to go to soccer practice. </div><div><br></div><div>A limp turned into a walk and then a jog and finally a silly shuffle/run. I was moving again despite my knee throbbing and aching every time my foot landed. I kept telling myself that this wasn't how it was going to end. I was now in 9th place running scared from 10th place and wondering if I could hold on for a few more km.</div><div><br></div><div>I just about fell over again when I looked up and could see Cyril and Marco only a few hundred metres in front of me. I didn't know how that happened but I felt I had a chance of regaining 7th place. </div><div><br></div><div>The technical terrain then gradually eased off into wider smoother trails as we wound our way down the switchbacks into Cortina. I caught Marco with about 4km to go and then Cyril a few hundred metres later. I kept telling myself "you want this more than them". The last few km as we left the trails and began descending through the back streets of Cortina were hectic. I was running as fast as my fatigued legs and throbbing knee would let me.</div><div><br></div><div>Over the final 2km I kept glancing over my shoulder to make sure I wasn't going to have 7th place taken from me. Running back through the town of Cortina along the cobblestones with the crowd cheering was incredible. It was exactly what I thought it would be and more. I was in a bit of a daze the last few hundred metres as children supporting gave me high fives and cheered Bravo!</div><div><br></div><div>I crossed the line in 13:46 for 7th place. My coach Andy DuBois had said to me before the race to give it everything and to get to the finish line barely able to take another step. I definitely achieved this as my legs had had enough by the time I got to the finish and decided to call it a day there as I fell to the ground. I was so happy that I could stay off my feet now and the pain was over. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviNUMNT7QyUtXGT1G6Bt5t0z28d5fJGPKJH18BzhyphenhyphenP04bQNl2uGJZe82z_fTxSOtHXbPIF5ZjEIFLYgSvi6jTe6Rf-pDKVVh0grLf-CElIEayflquqNgXJHTqcGZpCHfdgJxDAccCSrb-/s640/blogger-image-1319556792.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviNUMNT7QyUtXGT1G6Bt5t0z28d5fJGPKJH18BzhyphenhyphenP04bQNl2uGJZe82z_fTxSOtHXbPIF5ZjEIFLYgSvi6jTe6Rf-pDKVVh0grLf-CElIEayflquqNgXJHTqcGZpCHfdgJxDAccCSrb-/s640/blogger-image-1319556792.jpg"></a></div><i>Crossing the line was the best feeling!</i></div><div><br></div><div>The feeling of finishing my first race in Europe still gives me butterflies and makes me smile. In a way it was quite fitting that it wasn't a perfect race. I feel like it was a real physical and mental battle out there and that's a big part of why I run trail ultra marathons in the first place. They aren't easy and it's all about the journey and what happens on the trails that makes it a truly holistic experience for me.</div><div><br></div><div>I can't say how thankful I am of Liz for staying up for nearly 14 hours as I played in the Dolomites. Her warm smile and kind words were gratefully accepted during the middle of the night as I came into the aid stations. </div><div><br></div><div>Also thankyou to Marie Sammons from the Ultra Trail World Tour for firstly getting me a late entry into the Lavaredo Ultra Trail and for secondly providing so much help and support on race day and crewing with Liz. I think the girls had just as much fun as I did by the sounds 😀</div><div><br></div><div>Thankyou to Christina and Simone for having me at the race. I knew from the first few emails that you were both great people and after catching up during race week I knew I was going to be taking part in a truly incredible race put on by amazing people. </div><div><br></div><div>Finally thankyou to my sponsors Hoka One One Australia for flying me to Europe to be able to take part in the race. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to run in Europe and I can't wait to race here again! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MpgK70mRbwyZxX0MkSeXv4B3Fn9yyaLmSxzfWqny2jgzVbVYpA8BWjKdHRgrNXiY-Pr7J9ES4wkydL3PNg5AtWnlIZUjzkI9q60iAgLI8YLM6jMrgwrpRnvnOvrpjjaMGNvZDD_hvoi6/s640/blogger-image--104912071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MpgK70mRbwyZxX0MkSeXv4B3Fn9yyaLmSxzfWqny2jgzVbVYpA8BWjKdHRgrNXiY-Pr7J9ES4wkydL3PNg5AtWnlIZUjzkI9q60iAgLI8YLM6jMrgwrpRnvnOvrpjjaMGNvZDD_hvoi6/s640/blogger-image--104912071.jpg"></a></div><i>Me and my new running buddy Gediminus from Lithuania.</i></div><div><br></div><div>Gear used during the race:</div><div><br></div><div>- Hoka One One Rapa Nui Trail Shoes</div><div>- Compressport Trail Shorts, Calf Sleeves & Arm sleeves. </div><div>- Hoka Logo RaceReady tech shirt</div><div>- Ay-Up Head Torch</div><div>- Ultimate Direction SJ Vest</div><div>- Tailwind Nutrition</div><div>- WAA Ultra Equipment Rain Jacket</div><div>- Injinji Run 2.0 Toe socks</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-26081709836940106572014-06-11T01:18:00.000-07:002014-06-11T01:18:39.503-07:00Tailwind Nutrition...Just drink!Surely this isn't going to be enough to get me through the next two hours....<br />
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These were my thoughts when I was making up a 500mL bottle of Tailwind Nutrition for the first time. I'd heard great things about the Tailwind product but was still trying to get my head around the idea of just simply drinking whilst out training. No sticky gels, no gel wrappers and no constant chewing of chomps or chews. This Tailwind stuff is way simpler, just drink!<br />
<br />
My first impressions after a couple of weeks of trying this new product is that it has simply blown me off my feet! Here's a few key reasons why I have been so impressed by the Tailwind product:<br />
<br />
Reason #1 why I like Tailwind:<br />
I have never had such constantly awesome energy levels throughout training sessions. There seems to be no such thing as bonking during hard (and I mean really hard) training sessions now. I am training harder than ever leading up to the Lavaredo Ultra Trail at the end of this month and can't fault Tailwind for it's constant, steady supply of energy. An example of this was last week on a 3hr hill session in a torrential downpour of rain. After the run based on how good I was feeling I presumed I'd maybe gotten 1000m+ vertical gain in. After uploading the data to my computer I was blown away to see I'd gotten over 1700m+ vertical gain. I think because I had no low patches whatsoever during the 3hrs despite the challenging weather, I was able to climb strongly and climb well for the whole session.<br />
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Reason #2 why I like Tailwind:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
"<span style="color: #312e29; font-family: Monda, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">No gut bombs: Stomach problems? You’ll love Tailwind. Unless you enjoy being doubled over, retching" </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #312e29; font-family: Monda, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">- Tailwind Website.</span></div>
<span style="color: #312e29; font-family: Monda, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span>
I can drink it whilst running at high intensity without following it with a burp and a tummy grumble. Seriously though, Tailwind is sweet but not too sweet. It goes down super easy and there haven't been any signs of an upset tummy at all. At the moment this is like gold for me as it was crazy stomach issues that derailed my last 100km race at The North Face 100 Australia.<br />
<br />
Reason #3 why I like Tailwind:<br />
<br />
As I mentioned above, Tailwind is so simple. The idea of knowing that as long as I drink this bottle in the next 1hr, 2hrs etc it will cover all of my nutritional requirements for this training session or race.<br />
<br />
Reason #4 why I like Tailwind:<br />
<br />
IT TASTES AMAZING!!! Mandarin, Berry, Lemon and Naked... I still chuckle that they have a flavour called naked. They all taste awesome and I literally look forward to being able to take a sip as I'm running along. None of the "oh heck, not another gel!"<br />
<br />
I'm really excited that I am now back to feeling 100% confident in my nutrition leading up to two of the biggest races of my life in Italy and France in the next two months.<br />
<br />
Check out <a href="http://www.tailwindnutrition.com.au/" target="_blank">Tailwind Nutrition</a> at www.tailwindnutrition.com.au for more info and for any order enquiries if you need.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8s-jMjNQzf_RcvWXnKXWWI-4rc5aosx9EcYof0Au7iI4Y45CpyIIP67_gXBwOufFva15woVod7zO7tDTzqN9O5FGA2qswKfjtqTIHFRCDnpUCjz44U_OgEKx5U_gWqtZKILdFbgJDX6D/s1600/IMG_4483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8s-jMjNQzf_RcvWXnKXWWI-4rc5aosx9EcYof0Au7iI4Y45CpyIIP67_gXBwOufFva15woVod7zO7tDTzqN9O5FGA2qswKfjtqTIHFRCDnpUCjz44U_OgEKx5U_gWqtZKILdFbgJDX6D/s1600/IMG_4483.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packing for my last training weekend away</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-22471944436115660122014-05-25T16:00:00.001-07:002014-05-25T18:13:39.193-07:00Another race, another lesson learned - TNF100 Australia Race Report 2014"Hey Tom, have you been outside yet bro? It's real mild out there ay".<br />
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As the sun started to rise in Katoomba in the Blue Mountains I felt a really special day was ahead. The days leading up to the race had been much more relaxed and quieter than they usually are before races and I was in a really good head space.<br />
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We were lucky enough to be staying only a couple of kilometres from the start line at Scenic World in Katoomba. Liz, Tom and I decided the night before that we would jog down to the start line as our warm up and to also avoid trying to find a car park along with roughly 2000 other runners & supporters.<br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84cdULq-YpwbBWEEYhYRsPzmtj7wT1ZCLVz9s-vpD2G8EGwVNbSJ1Bti5NFj0zx16WtQAsqbVAYdrN1MmIAlQjUbGmyzfQjxYUgCNckVl4rua702_YktDwNZXtNmrFX6oIxhneFOBfP7K/s1600/0PcdJr_XMMj_EuUdgtG2lV3oVUwn7fhisensZ-P6E6M.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84cdULq-YpwbBWEEYhYRsPzmtj7wT1ZCLVz9s-vpD2G8EGwVNbSJ1Bti5NFj0zx16WtQAsqbVAYdrN1MmIAlQjUbGmyzfQjxYUgCNckVl4rua702_YktDwNZXtNmrFX6oIxhneFOBfP7K/s1600/0PcdJr_XMMj_EuUdgtG2lV3oVUwn7fhisensZ-P6E6M.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running along Narrow Neck<br />
Photo credit: <br />
Lyndon Marceau, Marceau Photography</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Not too long after arriving at the start area we assembled below the TNF100 banner before race director Tom Landon-Smith sent us on our way. The first 4km or so was an out and back along Cliff Drive which was intended to break up the field a little before heading down Furbers Steps. The pace initially was a little hectic but soon settled down as the lead runners assumed their positions on the road. The first leg was only 10.5km from Scenic World through to Narrow Neck Aid Station. Through this section I got a little frustrated with the stop start running through the technical "Landslide" section so I decided to jump to the front and enjoy the trails from there. I didn't pick the pace up through here, the other lead guys were all within seconds at the top of the Golden Stairs climb and then onto the aid station.</span><br />
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Once at the aid I refilled some water and it was here that Stu Gibson (eventual winner) took off with real purpose and made a distinctive break on the rest of the field. The run along Narrow Neck through to Tarros Ladder was fantastic. I ended up running this section with mates Andrew Tuckey (2nd place), Brendan Davies (3rd place) and new mate Jono O'laughlin (4th place). I kept really composed along this dangerous section of the race. The reason I think of it as dangerous is because it is by far the flattest section of the course and would have been very easy to get carried away with running too fast. Tarros Ladder was awesome, descending down here was epic and one had to have their wits about them when heading down the ladder.<br />
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The next section from here was out along the out and back section along Iron Pot Ridge. Andrew was kind enough to explain the details of this section as I wasn't able to check this section out in training as it is on private land. He told me that the climb was quite similar to Mt Solitary which we did at the Mt Solitary Ultra a few weeks prior. I was instantly excited at the prospect of a climb like this. I love the steep stuff and hiking. Myself and top French runner Quentin Stephan (6th place) who lives in the Chamonix/ Mt Blanc region ran this section together. Quentin is a top bloke who I enjoyed running much of the first 50km with. I've recently found out we'll cross paths again at the Ice Trail Tarantaise in France which will be great.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebedf8cGNf9rPHFX0oTzco3pXGuCBgeIRZprZKHLEKvIbhFmSwtbxRzAkLwKDkJbQu0oiCJmT7fRFXTFOIjvkkuOHTuKzZ31deLd80pZPhfaesgNitlS_HAO32KC7e6RP5DP2SDMk2N2X/s1600/IMG_4434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebedf8cGNf9rPHFX0oTzco3pXGuCBgeIRZprZKHLEKvIbhFmSwtbxRzAkLwKDkJbQu0oiCJmT7fRFXTFOIjvkkuOHTuKzZ31deLd80pZPhfaesgNitlS_HAO32KC7e6RP5DP2SDMk2N2X/s1600/IMG_4434.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes I love trail running!!<br />
Photo credit: Roger Hanney</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching 6ft Track Checkpoint<br />
Photo credit:<br />
Lyndon Marceau, Marceau Photography</td></tr>
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The section from Dunphy's Camp Aid Station to the 6ft Aid Station was pretty uneventful. There seemed to be a heck of a lot of fire trail road that made time pass a little slower. It's my least favoured type of terrain but fortunately I had speed demons Brendan and Quentin to tag along with. Not too far from the 6ft aid Quentin and I slowly pulled away from Brendan along Megalong Valley Road as it started to climb a little. Soon after though we hit the flat/downhill into the aid and Brendan literally came flying past which was pretty darn impressive. Once I arrived at the checkpoint it was a quick bottle swap with Liz and a quick kiss before heading<br />
down the trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgOq9fjbs5U9xyeGXM4nQnTj3KQQtUccx8Q8Kmk6Tw_Uh4RATOqHKpBWTyLIzRHDOgM07LG9Uva4sjbov6V2ufLrACmVbof5hiLn2__K3EUjNfXec17HikSUDqtQdiHxfacyT9pzieNuI/s1600/Brendan+Davies+TNF100+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgOq9fjbs5U9xyeGXM4nQnTj3KQQtUccx8Q8Kmk6Tw_Uh4RATOqHKpBWTyLIzRHDOgM07LG9Uva4sjbov6V2ufLrACmVbof5hiLn2__K3EUjNfXec17HikSUDqtQdiHxfacyT9pzieNuI/s1600/Brendan+Davies+TNF100+4.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; text-align: center;">Cruising along Megalong Valley Road with Brendan<br />
Photo Credit: Moritz Auf Der Heidi</td></tr>
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Because of such a quick aid station stop I passed Brendan and Quentin here. Soon after though I stopped to get a stone out of my shoe so Brendan caught up and we ran the next 40mins or so together which was great. Getting to spend time on the trails with good mates is what it's all about.<br />
<br />
Once we were approaching the start of the well known 'Nellies Glen' climb I looked down at my watch and worked out I needed to take a gel pretty soon. I decided we were about 5mins away from the start of the Nellies climb so took a gel and didn't think anything of it. After 100m or so I passed Brendan who was just in front and continued my way up the climb. Not long after I caught up to Jorge Maravilla (8th place) who is also the USA 100km Trail Running Champion 2014. We briefly exchanged words before he kindly let me past. I continued up the climb feeling awesome and thinking how great it was that I was taking things easy, playing it smart and I was now in second place.<br />
<br />
<br />
About 200m after hitting the top of the climb was where I went from feeling absolutely fantastic to then leaning with hands on knees dry-retching and then looking at all of my race day nutrition on the ground in front of me. I tried to compose myself and once I felt I had stopped I walked along the trail before breaking into a jog again. Soon later I hit the road and then disaster struck again. There I was, in 2nd place in The North Face 100 leaning up against a post uncontrollably dry-retching. My stomach hadn't hurt this much since the Tarawera Ultra in 2013 where I was really sick. My stomach hurt, I felt light headed and really wasn't enjoying myself. It was here that Andrew, Brendan, Quentin and Jorge passed me. All of them were kind enough to slow down to ask me if I was OK to which I kinda mumbled saying "I'll be right, just having a few stomach issues". This kind of camaraderie in a race just re-iterates to me that I'm in the right sport. Even in such a competitive race, fellow runners are so kind and thoughtful.<br />
<br />
I then dawdled my way through the back streets of Katoomba to arrive at 57km and the Aquatic Centre Aid Station. I asked Liz for powerade and coke as I wanted to get the poison like flavour out of my throat from spewing for the last 20 minutes. This wasn't a smart move but had to be done, I regretted this about 2 minutes after leaving the aid station when it all came back up again. Soon after Jono passed me with some kind words of encouragement as he took off up some stairs near the Echo Point car park. Not long after here I saw my good friend Lyndon Marceau who was the photographer for this year's event. I passed him before only being caught up again as I had to sit down on the side of the trail on a big boulder. By now I was feeling really sorry for myself and wondering how I was going to get myself out of this situation.<br />
<br />
Lyndon hiked ahead as I got up to follow him, it's not every day you find yourself walking behind the photographer on course. I think bumping into Lyndon gave me a bit of a boost as we shared a laugh or two before I stumbled my way along the trail towards the top of the Giant Staircase. As soon as I started descending I knew something was up. I started feeling really light headed and it felt as though my legs were going to buckle beneath me. I think I used my upper body and arms more than my legs to get down the stairs and it felt at times it was only my arms keeping me from falling flat on my face. I got to the bottom of the stairs where another helpful course marshall was directing me which way to go. As I turned left at the bottom I noticed some seats that looked far too good to go past so I took a seat and tried to work out what was going on. After a minute or two of sitting I still felt light headed so decided to lie down across the bench seat. The marshall asked several times if I was OK, I mumbled back saying 'I'll be right'.<br />
<br />
Feeling that my rest on the seat had done something to help I decided to get up and shuffled my way towards the Leura Forest and then onto the stairs heading up towards Prince Henry Cliff Walk. As I dragged myself up what seemed like endless flights of stairs my Team Hoka mate Ben Duffus (5th place) caught up to me. Ben was simply flying along, he seemed to be effortlessly going up the stairs and I just had to watch and think that I was supposed to be doing the same. Ben offered some words of encouragement and before long he was completely out of sight. With the speed in which he passed me I knew he was in for a big day so it was no surprise to see him climb to 5th place overall.<br />
<br />
At about the 66km mark there was a water station that I was pretty excited to get to. It basically gave me another reason to sit down while I filled up my water bottles. It was here that I was able to finally eat something, those gummy snake lollies were amazing. I think the fact that I was able to eat at least something gave me confidence that I was going to be able to get this done. It seemed that I got myself through to the conservation hut climb quite quickly and things really started to pick up from there. Every time I did the conservation hut stairs in training I really enjoyed this climb so I was sure to remind myself of this as I made my way up. I ran the whole way up which indicated that it was now game on. I knew I was never going to catch the lead guys because of having to sit down for far too long and the 2 hour patch leading up to and after the Aquatic Centre.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGHFiUMc-9Xn0xzqyKmd25IduxidgMjc5qUK74rRD7aDEDL1sgmjMNcNBMLgwEvL0zfRnZVSxc0PC__VJtY7rdnxyXzFDWST5pCH2Rmf45hxRWlp868yBj_eE4fMVm9dqLN5DSZKk0hiT/s1600/ec1i90zfqNZy1dHqe286fviQOenj7pVMpDlls9_Vckc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGHFiUMc-9Xn0xzqyKmd25IduxidgMjc5qUK74rRD7aDEDL1sgmjMNcNBMLgwEvL0zfRnZVSxc0PC__VJtY7rdnxyXzFDWST5pCH2Rmf45hxRWlp868yBj_eE4fMVm9dqLN5DSZKk0hiT/s1600/ec1i90zfqNZy1dHqe286fviQOenj7pVMpDlls9_Vckc.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying some smoother faster trails<br />
Photo credit: Lyndon Marceau, Marceau Photography</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBwKpyCz_D7glgFaImojZr9KsciGpesXIJSQw2YVvrrkFiSCkggjx43gU_2Np0WVzoPrPaSgmlS6r9-r0Tm0-UxQL-nATm7VEsztX5tE1GtnDoB97r19Mnz4w5cCediI2prW8cHSqS9jCy/s1600/-G6jBzn8shPBt_kWCUNPuKSaJ7R2UmjdQLK7sSqSceg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBwKpyCz_D7glgFaImojZr9KsciGpesXIJSQw2YVvrrkFiSCkggjx43gU_2Np0WVzoPrPaSgmlS6r9-r0Tm0-UxQL-nATm7VEsztX5tE1GtnDoB97r19Mnz4w5cCediI2prW8cHSqS9jCy/s1600/-G6jBzn8shPBt_kWCUNPuKSaJ7R2UmjdQLK7sSqSceg.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just before seeing Andy @75km<br />
Photo credit: Lyndon Marceau, Marceau Photography</td></tr>
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Seeing my coach Andy and the guys from Ultra168 at the 75km mark was another boost and added more fuel to the fire as Andy commented that I was starting to look good again. He told me that the other guys were quite far ahead and that I was going to have a big effort ahead to try and catch them. The road section for the final 3km to the Queen Victoria Hospital aid station was awesome. I really enjoyed the increase in pace and it was feeling seemingly easy again. The crazy leg fatigue that I had on the way down Giant Stairs was now a thing of the past and I started to think about the final 22km that I had ahead of me to the finish line.<br />
<br />
Seeing Liz at the checkpoint was as always a shining light. She was full of smiles and positive words of encouragement and gave me everything I needed to get the race finished. I think I only needed to get one or two gels from her for this section as I already had a handful left from the previous section where there was no chance my stomach could handle eating. I took off down Kedumba Valley Road with a bit of a spring in my step knowing this race was only going to end one way, on a high note.<br />
<br />
The run all the way down Kedumba to Sublime Point Road was great, I looked after my legs on the descent and then climbed with purpose when I needed to. As I started climbing towards Jamison Creek I decided to put some music on to give me a little boost. I haven't used music in a race in a long time but listening to some of my favourite tunes was awesome. Despite how the previous 9hrs or so had gone I was in a really happy place. I started catching up to 50km runners who were absolutely fantastic and full of smiles. It seemed that I got to the emergency aid station before long where I quickly filled water and was on my way, no sitting down this time!<br />
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I knew the first 2km or so from the aid station was going to be steep so I got into a good rhythm quickly and ticked off the km's. Not long after getting back onto the Federal Pass I caught up to Jorge. I was quite surprised to see him as I figured he would have already finished. We spoke briefly once again before I passed him and continued along the trail. Thinking I was moving quite well I decided to glance back to see how far behind he was, to my shock he was literally 30 metres behind and not going away. I thought to myself how much I didn't want it to end up being a slog up Furbers Steps to decide who was going to take 7th place so I decided to pick up the pace a little as we approached Furbers. I decided not to look back again as I felt I was moving well and didn't want any negative thoughts to creep in. The climb up Furbers was actually quite fun as 50km runners would move aside to let me past as we exchanged words of encouragement and trying to decide who's idea it was to end the race by going up here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK69xjcYgY4UKkkzcGICDxAXwrX6bfMPc76pLBcG99QsB3haNO3H6uiaKjlNIKe7PE_M2IYHqPT13aeAv0xdS4KbXKgGprtgXs9Gn21xvEYGFGispXZXKTY8_gTrGV9yo9H0rlQsOVA7Kf/s1600/mHo6JTu7JFDb90x6Aivw2dk-KR_agC_aptbJeX5XyV4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK69xjcYgY4UKkkzcGICDxAXwrX6bfMPc76pLBcG99QsB3haNO3H6uiaKjlNIKe7PE_M2IYHqPT13aeAv0xdS4KbXKgGprtgXs9Gn21xvEYGFGispXZXKTY8_gTrGV9yo9H0rlQsOVA7Kf/s1600/mHo6JTu7JFDb90x6Aivw2dk-KR_agC_aptbJeX5XyV4.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty happy to see the finish line<br />
Photo credit: Lyndon Marceau, Marceau Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Reaching the top felt like a weight off my shoulders. As I ran up the boardwalk towards Scenic World I knew that soon the day would be done. The crowd was electric as I ran up the finishing chute and crossed the line in 10:15:26 for 7th place.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmaZtLg7u1BRJtmNxeUQ31tZRvZSOfiNJSWvRE4dX_CL5JhkIytSwjxqGreobUnYQ6xeRnbSfsETDJWFXWfbx6XLMF2nC81n24hsjD86ZHNjk9E4G2MCEIucBYXBpwbEEt96VMg7mx04D/s1600/Sa5eo89-oOf36iuQdJS4tSmDuKpGaGZJ4G1AlvsUKtg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmaZtLg7u1BRJtmNxeUQ31tZRvZSOfiNJSWvRE4dX_CL5JhkIytSwjxqGreobUnYQ6xeRnbSfsETDJWFXWfbx6XLMF2nC81n24hsjD86ZHNjk9E4G2MCEIucBYXBpwbEEt96VMg7mx04D/s1600/Sa5eo89-oOf36iuQdJS4tSmDuKpGaGZJ4G1AlvsUKtg.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She keeps me going even in the toughest times<br />
Photo credit: Lyndon Marceau, Marceau Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBi49IjJPHVrMsJ4b2GIzCQ2J68OSnMxWuvMpl-g4ajvLsKo2WcJ_lQBnJ5uH8wCVvI0-IJJ4jpLzkM0CX-7W8k9dVUs_0UVA9aWa5jqGabTYfbuj5-MTj440yeLmELWZVcUjjjzSi2PEL/s1600/1601058_675531152495274_138374101610628508_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBi49IjJPHVrMsJ4b2GIzCQ2J68OSnMxWuvMpl-g4ajvLsKo2WcJ_lQBnJ5uH8wCVvI0-IJJ4jpLzkM0CX-7W8k9dVUs_0UVA9aWa5jqGabTYfbuj5-MTj440yeLmELWZVcUjjjzSi2PEL/s1600/1601058_675531152495274_138374101610628508_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying being at the finish line with <br />
Marie Sammons from the UTWT and Paul Charteris the RD from the Tarawera Ultra<br />
Photo Credit: Roger Hanney</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqX9okKzOoYJSt9ORelAzrZgG5Ca1ZSsNYRIn1HFuCbQTyLqD8j0H3jfYYzDr9tXZ0GuJifuWdPpP7cmX6Vw27Ti-9_cWrHwDuRGXn2b2R37cc3lrjEIJL2_y_xcNmjqMATjFsxgTQei6Q/s1600/Brendan+Davies+TNF100+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqX9okKzOoYJSt9ORelAzrZgG5Ca1ZSsNYRIn1HFuCbQTyLqD8j0H3jfYYzDr9tXZ0GuJifuWdPpP7cmX6Vw27Ti-9_cWrHwDuRGXn2b2R37cc3lrjEIJL2_y_xcNmjqMATjFsxgTQei6Q/s1600/Brendan+Davies+TNF100+8.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Men's top 10 TNF100 2014 with RD Tom Landon Smith in red. Absent: Jorge Maravilla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Looking back on the race now I am once again left with a feeling of "if only". This race for me was unique in the sense that I was finally injury free standing on the start line and my training had gone very well in the build up. Over the last week I have been thinking of what caused my stomach to play up and race to fall apart and there are a few different reasons why this may have happened. Initially I was really frustrated and upset that once again I couldn't run to my ability, but with the help of speaking to Liz and Andy I have put it behind me and into the experience basket. I'm now already looking forward to building again for Europe.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Tom and the crew from AROC for putting on a world class event that definitely did Australia proud and it was a great addition to the new Ultra Trail World Tour. Thanks as always to Hoka One One, Compressport, RaceReady & Ryders Eyewear for your continued support, it's fantastic having gear that is comfortable, functional and that I can rely on.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Liz again for being the best support crew, you always know what to say and often know better than I do what I need during the tough times. I can't wait to share some more amazing experiences racing in Italy and France together.<br />
<br />
Gear used:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://shop.hokaoneone.com.au/rapa-nui-2-trail/" target="_blank">Hoka One One Rapa Nui 2 Trail</a></li>
<li>Injinji Run 2.0 toe socks</li>
<li><a href="http://www.compressport.com.au/e-shop/short/pro-racing-trail-running-short.html" target="_blank">Compressport Pro Trail Running Shorts</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.compressport.com.au/e-shop/calf/r2-race-recovery.html" target="_blank">Compressport R2 Calf Guards</a></li>
<li><a href="http://raceready.com.au/shop/" target="_blank">RaceReady T-Shirt & Shorts</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ryderseyewear.com.au/product_details.php?cat_id=4&pcat_id=2#77" target="_blank">Ryders Eyewear Sunglasses - Cadence</a></li>
<li>Ultimate Direction SJ Vest </li>
<li>Back Country Runner Headsweats Hat</li>
<li>Suunto Ambit GPS Watch </li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-60020841388802970702014-04-10T20:29:00.001-07:002014-04-10T20:29:34.816-07:00Tarawera Ultra 2014 <div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tarawera Ultra 2014 was always going to be a special one for many reasons. Firstly my wife Liz was attempting her first Ultra marathon which was really exciting for us both. Secondly I had two Uncles competing in the race, Mum and Dad had flown up from Christchurch to support me and some more awesome Aunties and Uncles and Liz's Mum were there to support us too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Tarawera Ultra once again threw another curve ball in 2014 in the shape of Cyclone Lusi. Last year we were informed we would be running the fire course due to high fire risk related to the last 40km of forestry roads to the finish. This year we found out at around 6pm on Friday night about the new course and that the distance would now be about 69km.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My initial thought was that I was gutted we would now be running a shorter course. Then Dad said something along the lines of "Everyone is in the same boat, readjust and make the most of it." That night involved reassessing my hydration and nutrition plan to suit the shortened race, but other than that it was pretty uneventful.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The start got underway not long after 6:30am and we headed off on our way to complete the first loop through the Whakarewarewa Forest. This section was pretty uneventful with the main contenders for the race all settling in to a main pack who were in pursuit of kiwis Sam Clark and Marty Lukes. I was feeling pretty average during this first 12km mainly due to quads and hammies feeling like they were still asleep... possibly something to think about with maybe doing a pre-race warm up or something similar for my next race. They soon came good as we headed off towards Blue Lake.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Between the start/finish line and Blue Lake, runners began to string out a bit on the flatter sections. I was pretty content on running my own pace on the flat as I know where my strengths are and fast flat running isn't really my forte. Fortunately around Blue Lake there is some slightly more technical running and slight elevation gain so I was able to reel in the front runners. It was also great to be able to catch up with and chat to good friend Marty Lukes on this part of the run.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As we then made our way to Lake Okareka there was a bit more running on flatter stuff and some small sections running on the road. It was about here that lead runners Vajin, Yun, Sage, Mike A and Mike W all slowly pulled away from me. I was in two minds whether I should have gone with them, I decided not to but in hindsight I think I should have as this was the closest I got for the rest of the race. From Okareka to Okataina I started having recurring ITB related knee pain again. It seems to be an overused term in relation to my running lately but here we were again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I battled my way through to Lake Okataina aid station with the plan of running well when I could and when the pain became too great I would resort to my now well practiced shuffle/jog technique that reduces knee flexion. About 5km from the aid station I caught up to fellow Hoka teammate Mike Wardian from the USA. Knowing Mikes pedigree it's pretty safe to say I got a momentary spike in enthusiasm levels as we briefly exchanged words before I shuffled on. The spike in enthusiasm soon passed as mere minutes later I had pretty bad knee pain again and I was imagining Mike flying past me probably wondering what I was doing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The descent into Lake Okataina can only be described as brutally painful. Descending the mountain with my leg in the state it was in really sucked. Then as I reached the aid station I was told we had to do a bonus out and back to add some distance. As I headed out I then had Sage running towards me looking super focused which I took motivation from and this put a bit of a spring in my step. As I continued along I soon came across Yun, Mike and Vajin. They were a good few minutes ahead of me so I just knuckled down and tried to run as efficiently as I could with my knee feeling how it was.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I got back to the aid station I told Mum I needed a quick massage to try and sort things out. Everything near my left knee and lower ITB was super tight. During the brief massage I had a quick swig of coke and then I was soon on my way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The climb back out of Okataina had been in the back of my mind the whole race. I knew it was going to be tough and indeed it was. I was in a unique situation where my legs muscularly felt pretty good but any time I really loaded up my left leg I was feeling sharp pain. I got to a point where I felt the pain wasn't going to get any worse so I just pushed through. Coming to the top of the climb things started to get much better. I managed to keep a reasonable pace from there and once the terrain levelled out I was able to open up a little and run well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The next 15km or so were awesome fun. I knew that soon enough I would cross paths with Uncle Shane, Liz and Uncle Ag. It was such a boost seeing my family out on the course and even better to have a mid race hug and kiss with Liz.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I swiftly made my way to the final aid station at Millar Road where I grabbed a quick cup of water and then hammered it all the way downhill to the finish. I was running quite fast in the final few km clocking roughly 3:30min/km.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Crossing the line at Tarawera this year was really special. After a disastrous DNF last year it felt so good to finish and it was awesome having Mum and Dad there to see me finish. Running for me is the ultimate, so getting to share amazing experiences with my awesome family is so great!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few hours later I decided to run back up the road and onto the trails to wait for Liz to come through with the plan of running the final few km together. Soon enough Liz came flying down the trail through the mud and we ran the final stages of the race together. This was such a special experience that I will always remember.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to all my family who made the journey to Rotorua, you all made it such a fantastic family weekend. Thanks to Liz, you continue to blow me away with your determination and passion which I take great motivation from. It was so amazing to be there to share finishing your first ultramarathon together.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to my awesome sponsors as always, Hoka One One, RaceReady, Compressport and Ryders Eyewear.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's a few photos from the race:</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgP9lKmi62UY97zkqrPv3ZCeveLvzd5EHLm8q1GREYlm7t_dhy4JMhL3Os9ewAuqp1f2dze2syhbmlf-WRQeEOX2eRxlANnlUAfFlX4p_bCY43KgQZspNUDqQHhXPfCqI3PoWmIAlmrMwP/s1600/13227154133_7254b13631_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgP9lKmi62UY97zkqrPv3ZCeveLvzd5EHLm8q1GREYlm7t_dhy4JMhL3Os9ewAuqp1f2dze2syhbmlf-WRQeEOX2eRxlANnlUAfFlX4p_bCY43KgQZspNUDqQHhXPfCqI3PoWmIAlmrMwP/s1600/13227154133_7254b13631_o.jpg" height="427" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tarawera whanau. Photo: Graeme Murray<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NiKfAP3qfHxlhbQUdwPMRGMiGBBrrBx_txvBj4r9Qkslv4YhkuA7ADa4JcuaU5gcOiM2QgLd44k-UTAczNTC7JSEdp2wi-HRufhYSNcsU4uNYUcnAyCWzVTXmG6H1Klx3UEFpGIozfLU/s1600/IMG_3681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NiKfAP3qfHxlhbQUdwPMRGMiGBBrrBx_txvBj4r9Qkslv4YhkuA7ADa4JcuaU5gcOiM2QgLd44k-UTAczNTC7JSEdp2wi-HRufhYSNcsU4uNYUcnAyCWzVTXmG6H1Klx3UEFpGIozfLU/s1600/IMG_3681.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Liz before the race start.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeXuJL0Ra7_zpth5og8Ny44iP4amkqy37UrhFKSsSNQO-rA2KkpX1uOpXefZiwnm4II4t4EGs7HRlzSmPPV7nyQq-iRrjgc8soU9PEZuwYPYEFvKW7cg3MsExP9rFExQ9FvBxfc7AaL5Lc/s1600/13229227295_a30a33d907_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeXuJL0Ra7_zpth5og8Ny44iP4amkqy37UrhFKSsSNQO-rA2KkpX1uOpXefZiwnm4II4t4EGs7HRlzSmPPV7nyQq-iRrjgc8soU9PEZuwYPYEFvKW7cg3MsExP9rFExQ9FvBxfc7AaL5Lc/s1600/13229227295_a30a33d907_o.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Lyndon Marceau, Marceau Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdsNPra1t3zjnKpCl3MZF28dav-_1odftUxDLhlgPRiy8znjAVb-gYo4RRuedNxhTnjA0uMwauZn74zoD3Stpqs20k96HFecamhShPifVSwWkfavzXc8OIBIEHrIWuQpy1qo2zOzGCpBXS/s1600/13229267463_bc16bd92aa_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdsNPra1t3zjnKpCl3MZF28dav-_1odftUxDLhlgPRiy8znjAVb-gYo4RRuedNxhTnjA0uMwauZn74zoD3Stpqs20k96HFecamhShPifVSwWkfavzXc8OIBIEHrIWuQpy1qo2zOzGCpBXS/s1600/13229267463_bc16bd92aa_o.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking for the stars :)<br />
Photo: Lyndon Marceau, Marceau Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkgHxLK0YeGeCo7wVWwxebtdGddR-a0MdZDodNwpy6QEJIMTFduiEKyciPL-jJUHcbC8Uk6D-sJg-T25BOGbLlb88JEVWWn_H_5F7hF_7lCMv2tZI57pN2T0Sm_2D_5WwtvMSzDJm4zstI/s1600/13254634005_ce75f767af_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkgHxLK0YeGeCo7wVWwxebtdGddR-a0MdZDodNwpy6QEJIMTFduiEKyciPL-jJUHcbC8Uk6D-sJg-T25BOGbLlb88JEVWWn_H_5F7hF_7lCMv2tZI57pN2T0Sm_2D_5WwtvMSzDJm4zstI/s1600/13254634005_ce75f767af_o.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Zero Seven</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHcFFhPRP3LgS3vdRPN40OnORXRUfdGKrDlEtvzuboNvxuguUAGV5I_P5noM5cElIQnpXX_kVwm8UbDdC5qfUYAD6wzNTU4hIyWUBGfc1KXVHQOgkrVwbBBpaqPb60pGd-bhBuGR08CNT/s1600/IMG_3723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHcFFhPRP3LgS3vdRPN40OnORXRUfdGKrDlEtvzuboNvxuguUAGV5I_P5noM5cElIQnpXX_kVwm8UbDdC5qfUYAD6wzNTU4hIyWUBGfc1KXVHQOgkrVwbBBpaqPb60pGd-bhBuGR08CNT/s1600/IMG_3723.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Graeme Murray</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yyvHuzcEKR8ECO0nSPz6v6dykD_Xv32MEgB6j4-k06YzBbm0aKJw4NhrS_X2GsmFWkZP8LAABxjnYbRxTM42wAGyEWR-iWjHv11pUjTUirc-JwL0cfKoYvi5SZ4dzokDhKYkEOnYxj7W/s1600/IMG_3724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yyvHuzcEKR8ECO0nSPz6v6dykD_Xv32MEgB6j4-k06YzBbm0aKJw4NhrS_X2GsmFWkZP8LAABxjnYbRxTM42wAGyEWR-iWjHv11pUjTUirc-JwL0cfKoYvi5SZ4dzokDhKYkEOnYxj7W/s1600/IMG_3724.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Lyndon Marceau</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB70poGPVx8j_bJ77I-rEP37XNjr_S0x3YWwgsQ9p9MZYsbU1wL1xd7hiHhVpBUk4vZuD5XvZgJwZawyZQhGClGmb8Ry9k6-DxlcIaM7PB25_RZyLigu_PTpM-MHvIWHsQmysYuHeFGU6D/s1600/IMG_3718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB70poGPVx8j_bJ77I-rEP37XNjr_S0x3YWwgsQ9p9MZYsbU1wL1xd7hiHhVpBUk4vZuD5XvZgJwZawyZQhGClGmb8Ry9k6-DxlcIaM7PB25_RZyLigu_PTpM-MHvIWHsQmysYuHeFGU6D/s1600/IMG_3718.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tarawera Ultra Top 5, L-R: Sage Canaday, Yun Yan Qiao, Vajin Armstrong, Mike Aish & Me :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-34480328819041700802014-01-23T15:47:00.002-08:002014-01-23T15:54:46.317-08:00Vibram Hong Kong 100 2014<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">The Hong Kong 100
was a race I had planned on doing since October 2013.</span><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Liz and I were super excited that I was going
to be doing an international race and that it fit in so well with our other
travel plans for our summer holiday.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The build up to
this race was going to be quite similar to the Tarawera 100 last year with
plenty of media opportunities including interviews for local newspapers and
magazines. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">On Wednesday the
week of the race I was also fortunate enough to be asked by Eric LaHaie from
Hoka One One Hong Kong if I was available to be in a photo shoot with a local
Hoka One One runner. Liz and I met up with Ying (the local Hoka runner) and Fai
from Hoka HK who is also a photographer. It was a heap of fun working with Fai
and Ying and there were definitely a few laughs along the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The photo shoot was for the Asia Trail Runner
magazine; keep an eye out for me on the cover of the March edition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The newly formed
Ultra Trail World Tour (UTWT) that the HK100 is now part of planned for media
and the elite athletes to attend a press conference and Indian lunch on
Thursday. This was a really busy afternoon with interviews, photos and
presentations from Janet Ng & Steve Bremmar the Race Directors and Marie
Sammons from UTWT. There were also a couple of Q&A interviews with some
selected elite athletes. It was a really fun experience and also great to meet
some of the other runners and also catch up with some mates who were also doing
the race.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">After the press
conference we all made our way out to Sai Kung which is where the race starts,
and where we were staying for the next three nights. Thursday night before the
race a few of the runners including good mates Tarmo, Vlad & Vajin and I decided to head out for an easy jog to shake
out the legs. It was really nice to get the legs moving and explore one of the
trails close by. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Friday was
basically a free day to relax and organise any final race preparation. Liz and
I ended up catching a taxi back into the city with new mate Jez Bragg from the
UK. It was great to hear about his trip last year to NZ where he ran and broke
the Te Araroa trail record.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A really top
bloke who I look forward to catching up with again soon. We had to go and pick
up my new RaceReady singlets that had been temporarily lost in another building
in Sheung Wan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was pretty stoked to
finally get them as I thought they were gone for good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Friday afternoon
involved catching up with Lloyd Belcher, an incredible
photographer/videographer from HK. He was putting together a video of the HK100
including interviews and footage from race day. This was a really cool
experience that I am very thankful for. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The morning of the
race couldn’t have gone any smoother. Fai picked us up right on 7am and we met
Caroline from 2XU at the start line. The road to the start line was absolutely
jam packed with taxis. There was such an amazing atmosphere at the start line
and seeing everyone smiling and looking so happy was a real buzz. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Before long we
were making our way to the start line under the big HK100 archway. I’d heard
pre-race that I wanted to be near the front as it went onto singletrack after
only 400m. If I got stuck behind slower runners it could mean losing valuable
time. The start gun went and we were off. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The pace over the
first few km was fast but nothing too crazy. We eventually settled into
position and I began chatting with HK local Jeremy Ritcey. Jeremy has done the
race a few times now and mentioned that despite the international competition
this was the slowest start in the years he has done the race. Running along the
top of the East Dam was incredible. I had seen photos from last year’s race of
this section and it definitely lived up to my expectations.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">I’d settled into a
second chase pack by the 11km support point and was in about 12</span><sup>th</sup><span style="font-size: 16pt;">
place. I was keeping an eye on the pace early on as it was really flat and fast
and I wanted to ensure I wasn’t going out too hard. Leaving the support point I
was running just behind Hoka North America runner Dave Mackey and The North
Face runner Jez Bragg. We started running on a pipeline heading up the mountain
alongside the stairs. It was here I had my first moment where I was
second-guessing my ability. Dave and Jez appeared to be moving up the mountain
effortlessly and with real intention. I was hoping like anything they didn’t
pick the pace up any more than it already was!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Literally 300m
later I was in my happy spot. The nerves of running alongside two of the best
ultrarunners in the world had worn off and I was going up the first climb just
doing my thing. I was now keeping pace effortlessly and was happy again. Between
11km and the first checkpoint all of the frontrunners were brought together. It
seemed like the pack would get strung out on the downhill and then pull back
together any time we started climbing again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dave was definitely the man leading the charge on the downhills, he made
things look so easy and had crazy speed going down!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Passing through
the 1<sup>st</sup> checkpoint was absolutely chaotic. Because we were in a
fairly large bunch there seemed to be people everywhere. I managed to refill my
water pretty quickly despite this and left the checkpoint soon after. A mere
7km further and we were at the 2<sup>nd</sup> checkpoint at Wong Shek (28km)
which was the first place I was getting to see Liz, Fai & Caroline. All I
needed was a new water bottle as I had decided before the start that I wanted
to take enough gels and chomps to get me through to the halfway point of the
race. I came into the checkpoint in about 6<sup>th</sup> place and left in 2<sup>nd</sup>
place. A credit to Liz and her super smooth crewing skills, we even managed a
quick kiss before I was off on my way again. We have our checkpoints pretty
sorted these days ;)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Running through to
Hoi Ha (35km) there seemed to be more road than trail, which I wasn’t really
keen on. It seemed to be causing me a bit of ITB related pain in my knee again
like at the Great Ocean Walk 100km last October. It was the exact same sequence
of pain coming on which had me feeling worried that things weren’t going to pan
out well. I arrived at Hoi Ha but didn’t say anything to Liz about my knee as I
thought by trying to block it out it might help things. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The trails through
to halfway at Kei Ling Ha were really cool. We wound our way through small
villages and along the beautiful coastline of the island. I think I was lucky
there was such beauty around us as by this stage my knee had gotten much much
worse. If it sounds like a repeat of my GOW race report then that’s because it
is. Any downhill or running where my knee was flexing more was excruciating. It
felt like a knife being stabbed into the side of my knee. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I arrived at Kei
Ling Ha in 3<sup>rd</sup> place in 4hr46min, roughly 2mins down on Ryan Sandes
2012 course record run. Liz pulled me to one side and asked what I wanted. I
grabbed more gels and fresh water bottles but then sat down. I had to explain
to Liz and Fai that things were really not good. I told them that my knee had
been sore since before 35km. The thoughts going through my head from about 45km
onwards weren’t positive ones. I thought that this was the end of my
ultrarunning career, obviously I don’t have the body to be able to do this kind
of running. I was so angry and upset with the situation I was in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Liz being the
incredible support she always is was the logic and composure that I needed. I
wasn’t really thinking straight and I needed direction. She told me that it was
just my ITB and that I wouldn’t do any permanent damage. She said to stop being
soft and keep pushing through. Fai ended up giving me some massage and I had
some nurofen to try to reduce the inflammation on the side of my knee. This all
took about 6-7minutes and after a quick slap on the butt from Liz I was on my
way smiling again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Making my way to
the next checkpoint at 65km was hard. It was a really tough section and I think
after the first few km leaving 52km and feeling a bit better I was back in a
dark place. The only respite like at GOW was when I was hiking uphill. I
arrived at Gilwell Camp (65km) and grabbed a seat straight away. My knee felt
like it was throbbing and had that same sharp pain again. I sat here for
another 5mins or so and had about 3 cups of coke, 2 oranges and a jam sandwich.
The medic at the checkpoint asked me after 5mins whether I wanted any
medication or ice. I said I’d just had some anti-inflammatory medication but
agreed to the ice. As I sat there I thought that if I do put ice on my knee I
was going to be at least another 10 minutes. During the first 5 minutes Stone
Tsang a local favourite had passed me. I quickly got up out of the chair and
said to the volunteer that I should probably get going and that it would be
boring if it was easy. As I left I saw my room mates, French Hoka runner Pascal
Blanc and Freddy Thevinin. It was great to see them and made me smile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I caught Stone at
about the 75km point just past Beacon Hill. There were literally hundreds of
monkeys everywhere. Not the cute cuddly type you would think either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After saying hi to Stone he told me to make
sure I didn’t eat through this section or make eye contact because the monkeys
would attack me. I won’t repeat what I said but I quickly put my sunnies on to
reduce the chance of making the dreaded eye contact. Catching Stone gave me a
real boost of confidence. I didn’t fly past but was feeling strong as we made
our way up the gradual road hill.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">It’s amazing how
quickly things can change during an ultra. I soon came into CP8 at Shing Mun
Dam (83km) feeling awesome. The knee pain had settled down and I soon got word
that there were about 3 runners around 10 minutes ahead which put even more
wind in my sail. Another quick massage from magic hands Fai and I was on my way
in pursuit of the guys ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I had been out one
week earlier with an old school teacher from High School checking out this
final 17km so I felt I knew this section well. Mind you, as soon as I left the
checkpoint I was left wondering where the hell I was, as it looked unfamiliar.
As I started the climb up Needle Hill (532m) and caught glimpse of Hong Kong’s
highest peak Tai Mo Shan (957m) I suddenly knew exactly where I was! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I didn’t feel
worried or concerned about the peaks above, I felt like I was so in the zone
and was ready to work hard to get to the top as fast as I could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I soon came across Jeanette Wang from one of
the local newspapers who mentioned that I looked far stronger than the guys who
had gone through only 5 or 6 minutes before me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">After Needle Hill
is Grassy Hill (647m). Not too long after descending off Grassy Hill I caught
up to Dave. He was walking up a steeper section of the road and I soon passed
him. A quick few words and I was then in pursuit of the Nepali runner Ram Kumar
Katri who had just passed Dave before me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I caught Ram quite
quickly but he refused to let me go. It was pretty much a yoyo battle for
around 6km until we reached the undulating volcanic trail section after the
climb out of the 90km CP at Lead Mine Pass. As we were nearing the top of this
crazy stair section I made a bit of a gap on Ram and as I looked up I could now
see Japanese runner Shunsuke Okunomiya not far ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I felt more at
home as soon as we hit the trails along the volcanic section and soon caught
Shunsuke. I made a gap quite quickly which took me into 5<sup>th</sup> place.
The only problem with this situation was that Ram had got his second wind and
caught me again before we hit the super steep road heading up Tai Mo Shan.
Again we locked horns and battled our way up the hill. About 300m from the top
Ram made a burst and gapped me by about 50m. I let him go as I felt I had the
speed to catch him on the downhill. My plan worked out as after a couple of
switchbacks on the downhill I had caught Ram as I was cruising along at about
3:20min/km pace. He hung on for a bit but I wasn’t planning on staying around.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">This crazy race
wasn’t done yet though, even though there was only 3km to go. As I looked down
the mountain I could see fellow Kiwi Vajin Armstrong ahead. As ridiculous as it
sounded in my head I thought I might as well give it a crack and try to catch
up to him. I had visions of catching him and being the first Kiwi home. I
absolutely hammered it down the road leaving nothing in the tank and with about
1.2km to go I caught Vajin. He had headphones in so I figured I had one shot to
take him by surprise. I got a jump on him by about 30m before he realized it
was me. He then cranked up the pace to 2:55min/km and made a decisive move. My
legs had nothing else to give as I watched him pull away. I remember laughing
out loud and thinking at least I gave it a shot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I crossed the line
in 10:18:56 for 5<sup>th</sup> place overall. I ended up crossing a mere 27sec
behind Vajin who had a cracking race also. I was absolutely over the moon at
what I had achieved and I was so happy to see Liz waiting there for me at the
finish line. Because I was a fair bit behind Vajin at CP8 they had no idea I
was going to come in so quickly. I soon got word of the other placings and was
absolutely stoked to hear my good mate Vlad managed to take 3<sup>rd</sup>
place behind two Nepali runners.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I can’t thank
everyone enough for your kind words and love Liz was passing on to me during
the race. It was so incredible knowing I had so much support behind me. Thank you
to Fai, you kept me going mate, quite literally. Without the massage I don’t
think my legs would have got going again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Thank you to Eric
from Hoka One One Hong Kong, and again to Fai (and Carol) for being the most
amazing hosts. You welcomed Liz and I and we are so appreciative of that. Also
thanks to Caroline for your support on the day of the race.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Steve and Janet,
you have a truly world class event here. The course is phenomenal and the whole
event ran so smoothly and is a true testament to your hard work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">As always, Liz. You
are truly my shining light whenever I am down during a race. You know me better
than I know myself sometimes and always have my best interests at heart. You
are caring and loving when I need but also the kick in the backside (quite
literally) that I need during races too. I can’t wait for our next adventure
together and seeing you at the checkpoints along the way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Hong Kong is a
fascinating and incredible place that we have both thoroughly enjoyed. The race
itself, but also the culture, attractions and all of the friendships we have
made over the past couple of weeks. I can definitely see us heading back to Hon
Kong soon; let’s make this happen Eric ;)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Until next time </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 16.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_kDwYROG-vjSA3KgUcWQLpY06Nwk4P10eI2lt7ClmH4dUPYreb0NaHAnSeCq5K5Qt8KOTevZ66W-0iIXEH7DqXms6k3wc7eiI9xVIIYMgsHd-n-oQn2qXw1R00QKizTo9E27NIrg2ne2W/s1600/1618384_849172481764531_1548213246_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_kDwYROG-vjSA3KgUcWQLpY06Nwk4P10eI2lt7ClmH4dUPYreb0NaHAnSeCq5K5Qt8KOTevZ66W-0iIXEH7DqXms6k3wc7eiI9xVIIYMgsHd-n-oQn2qXw1R00QKizTo9E27NIrg2ne2W/s1600/1618384_849172481764531_1548213246_o.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To be able to get to do what I love on the trail and then see who I love at the finish is what it's all about for me.<br />
Photo: HK100<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8D6XSTRwba5EetMoCfNUMhac8t5uGostDly4Zp7S9TmSSTET6G9rX5hg8i3uKJhiu4lKssUc6v23PJ0MBxO4qXhyphenhyphenMEECdJRS9DuOJTLFmgKMXx5eUgnOTnGqsAaSFg8SoD0v5gHgO8PV/s1600/577370_504342456351984_1937427249_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8D6XSTRwba5EetMoCfNUMhac8t5uGostDly4Zp7S9TmSSTET6G9rX5hg8i3uKJhiu4lKssUc6v23PJ0MBxO4qXhyphenhyphenMEECdJRS9DuOJTLFmgKMXx5eUgnOTnGqsAaSFg8SoD0v5gHgO8PV/s1600/577370_504342456351984_1937427249_n.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Lex Axe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE3SFjdDsDU-d0ByMQ-EgZqYqZ9KA3pr8u0HTjLsZzMAywLOHFvFQqlop3ZSSqtztOmB7AqO26mBJee2szNwMDr_kABzFNa5RDW-kJElFcM8j-jPYy341bqzMP9olwBbAOAqSFbe7d4OMi/s1600/1025575_849172448431201_1180025506_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE3SFjdDsDU-d0ByMQ-EgZqYqZ9KA3pr8u0HTjLsZzMAywLOHFvFQqlop3ZSSqtztOmB7AqO26mBJee2szNwMDr_kABzFNa5RDW-kJElFcM8j-jPYy341bqzMP9olwBbAOAqSFbe7d4OMi/s1600/1025575_849172448431201_1180025506_o.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the day I'd had, I was pretty stoked to see the finish line.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqrQDBM0UAXiMwaqHM7yt1Pncle75R76p-dWe1XgUQ-qNRPkdYVXETKAD7WPyBtyN1oVcgzqt_DzNJDkxa_6ToJ0iBzoXe3VqAlcR_rSlc1X64obmGg1cFB8G1pta1Q1U3KUyRBY3uGRm9/s1600/1485876_849172518431194_1105406318_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqrQDBM0UAXiMwaqHM7yt1Pncle75R76p-dWe1XgUQ-qNRPkdYVXETKAD7WPyBtyN1oVcgzqt_DzNJDkxa_6ToJ0iBzoXe3VqAlcR_rSlc1X64obmGg1cFB8G1pta1Q1U3KUyRBY3uGRm9/s1600/1485876_849172518431194_1105406318_o.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fellow Hoka Team mate Pascal Blanc & Freddy Thevinen from France. My roommates, stoked to see them come in together!<br />
Photo: HK100</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2kh-ezgEEjbWmixpdw1TorQbywK66IYjb3hyphenhyphentN7qHFPYN8xao0m3DbJvgJbbcoKfruDq1NAkxQbWY_AabOprY3AlLctUTbEx6HWQ7F8npsyRv1ybD_1LDingthdbI165iL7GWiX-MERk-/s1600/1492703_849171841764595_597721979_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2kh-ezgEEjbWmixpdw1TorQbywK66IYjb3hyphenhyphentN7qHFPYN8xao0m3DbJvgJbbcoKfruDq1NAkxQbWY_AabOprY3AlLctUTbEx6HWQ7F8npsyRv1ybD_1LDingthdbI165iL7GWiX-MERk-/s1600/1492703_849171841764595_597721979_o.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The atmosphere at the start line was buzzing!!<br />
Photo: HK100</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8zyLbB3iF4C5Lf5WNejK9FqkjQMgp7Xa5JSg10Wv9mvsdVFfPa5iw8f577Tvmh7q7XjSO9SjE1MeJPpbyeFe6rGr54VkC3yTqL6X9XoCyq6je5bnKPjWaFN_n8r2moxp3AVR4WujdM1VR/s1600/1497033_844553872226392_101524525_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8zyLbB3iF4C5Lf5WNejK9FqkjQMgp7Xa5JSg10Wv9mvsdVFfPa5iw8f577Tvmh7q7XjSO9SjE1MeJPpbyeFe6rGr54VkC3yTqL6X9XoCyq6je5bnKPjWaFN_n8r2moxp3AVR4WujdM1VR/s1600/1497033_844553872226392_101524525_n.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Francesca Canepa, Vajin Armstrong. Crazy to be rubbing shoulders with some of the world's best!<br />
Photo: HK100</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRCho6W0BTX_bEEpKZD70S_X9c5hpi0TTWP0fglj8NKVKTyzcGsiE4nHcNFnPgHUrAKF82FoWYXIUHqDlmN0qj580lSt7of4pEoS8pRzbrGbx-dlv4wsRmWvOgPKLMS8vBj2UHLvwV77yq/s1600/1524825_845896888758757_1101648041_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRCho6W0BTX_bEEpKZD70S_X9c5hpi0TTWP0fglj8NKVKTyzcGsiE4nHcNFnPgHUrAKF82FoWYXIUHqDlmN0qj580lSt7of4pEoS8pRzbrGbx-dlv4wsRmWvOgPKLMS8vBj2UHLvwV77yq/s1600/1524825_845896888758757_1101648041_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's concrete but it's still good :)<br />
Photo: HK100</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjznfxjCa0AMavtPgfJSBirqme3EZ_JBCqQKbUU5L9NG0N6SdZ_lX9nh_Ngyeu2Sy9mE8IrxemVsnxY3-KQ5rbmMOPXqgPRRvek3T_M7uvtiguPQ-Jf2pXPI5s7dMrf2KEQY4RNikCUU56/s1600/1549311_504342679685295_260096330_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjznfxjCa0AMavtPgfJSBirqme3EZ_JBCqQKbUU5L9NG0N6SdZ_lX9nh_Ngyeu2Sy9mE8IrxemVsnxY3-KQ5rbmMOPXqgPRRvek3T_M7uvtiguPQ-Jf2pXPI5s7dMrf2KEQY4RNikCUU56/s1600/1549311_504342679685295_260096330_n.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Lex Axe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLm7dJhsiJA17KQNd2bRN164lMRuwrQDYwM6AXF4tkhQt13AUni9XHw7BnpDuQkGPh_zce5PSRant1xgUGLAWVi6QwMNWaHSySADpNgL-DQ6Pb5i8D0vd8Q_x7HlBflvCob_9FEudmQigO/s1600/1614303_849172475097865_1346194416_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLm7dJhsiJA17KQNd2bRN164lMRuwrQDYwM6AXF4tkhQt13AUni9XHw7BnpDuQkGPh_zce5PSRant1xgUGLAWVi6QwMNWaHSySADpNgL-DQ6Pb5i8D0vd8Q_x7HlBflvCob_9FEudmQigO/s1600/1614303_849172475097865_1346194416_o.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vajin and I chatting to Steve the R.D after the epic finish!<br />
Photo: HK100</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_v_yX3YSHoxec9J1NA-HIoVaSSSGgsdj1_q_qP0JWHLv7wsaf5uXV2tD71dsoPc1PxgKPwObCRRErbS1nKgfoaOYsaBZR5BxeCY_eTXaZTqRNXVziLT_SxBLQJxdpGI-oQ7M4jyAiHLQn/s1600/156579_10152228806896096_297034536_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_v_yX3YSHoxec9J1NA-HIoVaSSSGgsdj1_q_qP0JWHLv7wsaf5uXV2tD71dsoPc1PxgKPwObCRRErbS1nKgfoaOYsaBZR5BxeCY_eTXaZTqRNXVziLT_SxBLQJxdpGI-oQ7M4jyAiHLQn/s1600/156579_10152228806896096_297034536_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading up more stairs on my way up to Needle Hill.<br />
Photo: Jeanette Wang</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-D_EfGug87jYIvczcaNqUyMBbZduOwtInfFqjeevwTC4TQktq9sI-ccZrlGAUD1pWimU-IDhls9jWmX_nZYY8LXSjAw4ig8MGKvb0VirKSDjXpQKxyHE6hOSerS9iWCeQofRsMAjYsTc/s1600/1526344_731684163511529_317472697_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-D_EfGug87jYIvczcaNqUyMBbZduOwtInfFqjeevwTC4TQktq9sI-ccZrlGAUD1pWimU-IDhls9jWmX_nZYY8LXSjAw4ig8MGKvb0VirKSDjXpQKxyHE6hOSerS9iWCeQofRsMAjYsTc/s1600/1526344_731684163511529_317472697_n.jpg" height="640" width="568" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Dave Mackey, Pascal Blanc - Team Hoka<br />
Photo: HK100</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2s-D0kz-yJ8tdSB8SZ3AibIe_X-GkmFUSZ9bAlOMCcWTmWSgE3hB1QCd7a8zUeooqmVEWUv8efNJ0CUXTPzi1rORcg_gfTQLwoKVT7tNmimK4nzZO2TMn1TpU2PzRzYTYTcBb9VnHXQSW/s1600/1535582_10152169658594267_1123901778_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2s-D0kz-yJ8tdSB8SZ3AibIe_X-GkmFUSZ9bAlOMCcWTmWSgE3hB1QCd7a8zUeooqmVEWUv8efNJ0CUXTPzi1rORcg_gfTQLwoKVT7tNmimK4nzZO2TMn1TpU2PzRzYTYTcBb9VnHXQSW/s1600/1535582_10152169658594267_1123901778_n.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early on, fun times coming down more stairs.<br />
Photo: Daniel Chung</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLejTimKtryzigoFhGHdFmZgV-W3uRnG07YfnAblIWDg7VlpdvJE_a9D24kYZS94ArTdiOyeJdI-qhJYQI1brN5AsUhtiwu_YSh_ynmGD-Ds1C_JypmaOCdgA117oKLn0DAN1SrYFh3V0/s1600/1535622_10152173998873637_163347550_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLejTimKtryzigoFhGHdFmZgV-W3uRnG07YfnAblIWDg7VlpdvJE_a9D24kYZS94ArTdiOyeJdI-qhJYQI1brN5AsUhtiwu_YSh_ynmGD-Ds1C_JypmaOCdgA117oKLn0DAN1SrYFh3V0/s1600/1535622_10152173998873637_163347550_n.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me followed by Ram & Shinsuke.<br />
Photo: Bernie Kwok</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-82761277952360697752014-01-01T17:52:00.003-08:002014-01-01T17:52:36.037-08:00Looking back... 20132013 has been epic!!<br />
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When I think about how 2013 has unfolded from a racing perspective, in all honesty it feels like something that was meant to be. </div>
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Early on in the year my big 'A' race for the year being the Tarawera 100k Ultra came around super fast. I had a nice build up to Tarawera with a handy 76min Half Marathon tempo effort race in Busselton which was a timely confidence boost.</div>
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Tarawera didn't pan out at all how I'd hoped but I learnt so much from this race and the whole experience of what unravelled that day. </div>
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Next up was the Mt Helena 40miler which in hindsight was a big mistake as I was purely after redemption only 2 weeks after Tarawera. The race or more precisely my health fell apart early on and I was left with quite literally an uphill battle to the finish. Best part of the day was definitely the beers after!</div>
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Three weeks on and after some solid hours in the hills was the Truth or Consequences 50km. This was an absolute cracker of a race and amongst some stiff competition I managed the win in 3:50.</div>
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A week later we were on our journey to the USA and the day after we landed Liz and I were lining up in the Santa Monica Coast to Coast Marathon & 1/2 Marathon. This was a truly cool experience for us both as our first race on US soil.</div>
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After some time in Vegas, San Fran and San Diego we were off to my 2nd most favourite place (after NZ of course) in the world being Alaska. I feel so lucky that Liz and I were able to take part in one of the coolest/gnarliest races we have ever done. It was the Turnagain Arm 8mile Trail Race. In a fast battle up front I was schooled on how to run downhill in the final mile by good friend Matias who took the win - I managed to hold onto 2nd place. </div>
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Despite 2 races in the US there was very little running done outside of this mainly due to doing the tourist thing and finding it difficult finding where to run.</div>
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A week after getting back to Perth I had the Hoka One One Kep 100k Ultra. Although this was a race that I had wanted to do for a couple of years I was pretty close to pulling the pin due to a lack of preparation. I decided to run and I'm glad I did. I ran 8:17 for the win and was really surprised with how things went considering my build up.</div>
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A misdiagnosis of an injury plagued the next 10 weeks of the running calendar which also meant missing out on running in Tasmania when we were there on holiday and not being able to compete in the You Yangs 50 Miler which wasn't great. </div>
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After a slow build up and some great treatment and advice from my Physio and a new Doctor I was back running pain free again. I decided to run the Perth City to Surf Marathon as an entry had been passed on through a friend of a friend. I decided that if I turned up in a singlet and shorts I would likely push too hard too soon after very little training. I was soon at the costume shop picking out my outfit to force me to treat it as a training run. Running through the closed streets of Perth as Mr Incredible was one of the highlights of my running year. I had so much fun giving the kids lining the streets high fives and seeing the looks on people's faces as I ran by.</div>
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The next race on the cards was the Great Ocean Walk 100km. The race started well but fizzled out after a mere 30km after some soft sandy sections appeared to aggravate the old injury. I battled through and was stoked to get my buckle for finishing.</div>
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After a couple of weeks taking things really easy I was once again back into pain free running. The next race was the Moon Shadow 12km night race. I had an absolute blast, despite missing a turn, and managed first place which was a nice way to help forget the less than ideal run I had at GOW.</div>
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The last race for the year was the 6 Inch Trail Marathon a few weeks ago. It was a real up and down build up to this race. I ended up having a great hit out amongst arguably the most competitive field for a trail race in WA this year. I felt strong for the majority of the race and was stoked with my time of 3:20. I was super pumped about pulling up injury free and feeling good post race.</div>
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Amongst a year that feels like it failed to fire there are some races and results mixed in that I'm really happy with. Despite my 'A' races not ending the way I'd have liked I had some truly amazing experiences out on the trails in 2013.</div>
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To say I'm pumped about 2014 and racing is a crazy understatement. The year is starting off with the Hong Kong 100k in January, the Tarawera 100k in New Zealand in March and the TNF100 Australia in the Blue Mountains in May. </div>
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Thank you to all my running friends who joined me in training and racing throughout the year. I've made some great new friendships through running in 2013 which is a big part of what it's all about.<br />
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A massive thankyou to Hoka One One Australia, RaceReady, Ryders Eyewear and Darryn at Peak Podiatry, your continued support is helping me achieve my goals. Thanks also to Ali from Ascend Physio and Nathan from Massage Works HQ, it has been a busy year of recovery and rehab and I really appreciate your help getting me back on the trails!</div>
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As I've mentioned a few times in race reports and other posts, I couldn't have had the year I've had or the one that's coming without the never ending support and love from my amazing wife Liz. Until a few weeks ago I've always said I hadn't ever had a coach, but in so many ways Liz has been the person I have always turned to. A massive motivation kicking me out of the house on cold rainy days and 40deg scorchers, a phenomenal chef and her constant love and support of me chasing my trail ultra running dreams. I love that we are sharing this adventure together and I can't wait to see her when I'm coming into the next aid station.<br />
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2014 LET'S DO THIS!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZ1gs0a4th8lEPgeC8zwpFQC-h3qAKlnIiwGCk3lzIF2ypg215r8_0Re2lWN_pieqoPCKYwMKx-qPPuSMMJUIOzSyA3SCjAk9nzwvF418l222dvikyQLZwU9JbQEkhQcMFWdlAIhOXs_b/s1600/DSC_8314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZ1gs0a4th8lEPgeC8zwpFQC-h3qAKlnIiwGCk3lzIF2ypg215r8_0Re2lWN_pieqoPCKYwMKx-qPPuSMMJUIOzSyA3SCjAk9nzwvF418l222dvikyQLZwU9JbQEkhQcMFWdlAIhOXs_b/s640/DSC_8314.JPG" width="508" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty much sums up the two loves in my life, Liz and trail running. Photo: Ron Mcglinn</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A highlight at the City to Surf Marathon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdgBPZMuzY35Pk0SxpSZQnEJQ8r3V0IYyP4vSbQZpTaR0v1hxDJ9betqTFaF1HgUXkAWt6mM87seOjEel_XX0TT3lo0M830sxCtSk-11JYTaJJewyjZ_Zm7zB2uhYnQ-THfP3ONFtw8CE/s1600/IMG_1355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdgBPZMuzY35Pk0SxpSZQnEJQ8r3V0IYyP4vSbQZpTaR0v1hxDJ9betqTFaF1HgUXkAWt6mM87seOjEel_XX0TT3lo0M830sxCtSk-11JYTaJJewyjZ_Zm7zB2uhYnQ-THfP3ONFtw8CE/s400/IMG_1355.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome to meet some crazy trail runners in Chiang Mai, Tarmo, Ryan and Brian</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigU4_KnFltUdoVqfp5HcOJ4Gun-aCuWldkAnC98_FmKq8dKGcodjRopaUjUG1uEYoAtINMMU3803urDlPR1dNrVo4G_kUdNPAipQ3s_ZAdoYscXFvGIFYdtkfpH9-fhXla0c6ebht74kyp/s1600/IMG_1234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigU4_KnFltUdoVqfp5HcOJ4Gun-aCuWldkAnC98_FmKq8dKGcodjRopaUjUG1uEYoAtINMMU3803urDlPR1dNrVo4G_kUdNPAipQ3s_ZAdoYscXFvGIFYdtkfpH9-fhXla0c6ebht74kyp/s400/IMG_1234.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During a run in Chiang Mai</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFQ7dVwVJo7WGXVVso5gJw_DO1b5mVeOk3otW4PeNpL_nX2znagZ6oMXLonI9SssLBzo-6vL6Z8XC8xIIT_ENQ-KAL8JgoMzwqBn_kPDYnl0BDlWlANZxhVj9Kri-LSABp9pLbA24lJXq/s1600/DSC_4410+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFQ7dVwVJo7WGXVVso5gJw_DO1b5mVeOk3otW4PeNpL_nX2znagZ6oMXLonI9SssLBzo-6vL6Z8XC8xIIT_ENQ-KAL8JgoMzwqBn_kPDYnl0BDlWlANZxhVj9Kri-LSABp9pLbA24lJXq/s640/DSC_4410+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really enjoyed running with Mick early on in the Kep 100 Ultra. Photo: <a href="http://stevefraser.co/" target="_blank">Steve Fraser</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz's first 'real' trail run at Serpentine Falls N.P</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4B78VZWrOxhrcxy_D8fEZ3Hlk8Czo7Yq2M1mA6KqeY9ggxJ_RO-c5qJb5nYbWZEctAiYZqovHShA0_rLDShmSklc3n_NUOkpwoM_1v1WtmEiONvWDOw0RhwXlFOb7SBPHzVK4aGimd9-/s1600/IMG_1014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4B78VZWrOxhrcxy_D8fEZ3Hlk8Czo7Yq2M1mA6KqeY9ggxJ_RO-c5qJb5nYbWZEctAiYZqovHShA0_rLDShmSklc3n_NUOkpwoM_1v1WtmEiONvWDOw0RhwXlFOb7SBPHzVK4aGimd9-/s320/IMG_1014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken on our local run around the river</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Santa Monica Coast to Coast Marathon, USA</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The race didn't go well but the scenery and trails were amazing! Photo: <a href="http://marceauphotography.com/" target="_blank">Marceau Photography</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turnagain Arm Trail Run..... EPIC!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Truth or Consequences 50km</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Absolutely knackered and finally at the finish at the GOW100</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing the 6 Inch Trail Marathon. Photo: Ron Mcglinn</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insane mountain running in Alaska with Matias</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-5170344933480970012013-12-18T16:09:00.002-08:002013-12-18T16:09:39.182-08:006 Inch Trail Marathon 2013 - Race reportThe 6 Inch Trail marathon is a race I have missed out on the last couple of years since moving to Perth as my body has generally had a guts full by December and is ready for christmas ham and mid strength beers. Although I was by no means in ideal 'race' shape because of a couple of minor injuries, I was stoked to be lining up alongside some super fast runners for the race.<br />
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The race as always started at the crack of dawn at 4:30am and involves the first few km of the race going up Goldmine Hill. Not a big climb by any means but enough to get the juices flowing right from the start line while I was still trying to wake myself up. The pace was on right from the start as the lead guys took off. The race this year was stacked! <a href="http://runmrd.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/praise-for-race-directors-6-inch-trail.html" target="_blank">Brendan Davies</a> had come over from the Blue Mountains and we had local talent including course record holder Gerry Hill, last years winner <a href="http://jamessheldonroberts.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">James Roberts</a> and a bunch of super quick marathoners in Tom Bakowski, Etienne Rodriguez, Kevin Matthews, Michael Ho and more.<br />
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The first 10-15km played out pretty much how I thought it would. Brendan and Gerry were off out front for a while before Brendan dropped the hammer and made a decent break. Behind those two was me and my good mate Tom and we gradually bridged the gap between Gerry and ourselves. Personally I was just trying to keep things as low key as possible early on making sure I stayed within touch of the front runners.<br />
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Approaching 18km I got word that Tom, Gerry and I were 2mins down on Brendan. I was surprised we weren't further back so knew we were running well. At this point the trail crosses the road and then goes up a short climb. It was around here I seemed to run ahead of the other guys. </div>
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As I got to the 1st aid station the plan was to drop my handheld and pick up my AK race vest with 2 bottles as I knew the heat was going to come in hard and fast so I'd need the extra hydration. I basically grabbed the vest as I dropped the handheld and was off again down the trail within seconds.<br />
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The next section to aid 2 was a tough wee section. Enough short hills to keep you honest but enough flat stuff so that I had to keep an eye on my watch to make sure I was cruising along at a sustainable pace. I was averaging around 4min/kms through to aid 2. I was really cautious of not pushing too hard too soon in my efforts to try and catch Brendan out front. I figured there was no point pushing hard to catch him and then not be able to push harder, Brendan is a world class trail and ultrarunner so I was going to have to be smart if I wanted things to play out in my favour. Approaching about 34km there is a 2.5km out and back to aid 2 up the top of a fairly decent hill. My plan pre-race was that if I was anywhere near the front this was a spot I could hopefully close the gap. As I went past the volunteer at the start of the out and back he commented that Brendan was now about 30 seconds ahead. Unfortunately for Brendan along this out and back he made a wrong turn because of some flagging tape being down which on a course like 6 Inch makes things confusing at best - likely a kangaroo or possibly mountain biker, not at all due to course markings.<br />
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I was already running pretty solid approaching the start of the climb as I wanted to try and catch Brendan before the top or at the aid station. As I got further up the hill and finally to the aid station I realised he must have taken a wrong turn. Dave Kennedy the R.D was kind enough to provide some world class bottle filling skills and I was off hammering it down the hill a few seconds after arriving at the aid. I took to the downhill pretty fast, but a conservative fast. My Rapa Nuis were loving the descent and I maintained a pretty good speed down here. On the way down I came across Brendan, we had a brief few words and he said he'd gone the wrong way. Not too far along the trail I came across Tom next followed by Etienne, James, Big Kev and others. Tom looked super strong which also gave me motivation to ensure I closed out the race well.<br />
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My plan for the final 10km was to run solid but to not empty the tank completely. I had thoughts of the Hong Kong 100 go through my mind and I wanted to make sure that I didn't do anything silly in the final stages of the race. The last leg was really enjoyable as it was a section I had run before in one of the recon runs so I knew roughly where I was. I crossed the line in 3:20:28 for first place ahead of Tom Bakowski in 2nd and Brendan Davies in 3rd. I was over the moon with the result and it has been a timely boost of confidence before I head over to Hong Kong.<br />
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Thanks must go out to race director Dave Kennedy for putting on a fantastic race and all of the volunteers for their efforts and support during the day. Special thanks to my good mate Adam for partnering up with Liz to make a pretty formidable support crew for me. As always Liz was a massive boost whenever we crossed paths along the course.<br />
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As always I wore my Hokas, choosing the <a href="http://ultrasmall.wordpress.com/2013/09/05/my-favourite-hokas-of-all-time/" target="_blank">Rapa Nui</a> trail shoes for this race. I used Injinji performance run 2.0 socks. My new Compressport Trail Shorts and trusty Compressport calf guards were awesome as always. Nutrition involved 7 Gu gels and some Hammer Endurolytes. Hydration was some quality H20 in an Amphipod HandHeld and an Ultimate Direction AK Race Vest.</div>
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For results see here: <a href="http://www.aura.asn.au/data/Results/2013/20136InchResults.pdf" target="_blank">6 Inch Trail Marathon Results</a></div>
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Some race photos courtesy of Ron McGlinn and Paul V Harrison:<br />
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<a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/104426653078533679370/albums/5957817925646679793?banner=pwa&authkey=CIaCtYXf3c6wOg" target="_blank">Ron's Photos</a> <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/pvharrison/20136InchTrailMarathon?authuser=0&feat=directlink" target="_blank">Paul's Photos</a><br />
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My race on my Suunto Movescount can be found here: <a href="http://www.movescount.com/moves/move22545459" target="_blank">Movescount</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of Goldmine Hill</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loving the trails</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom and I</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the finish line</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have no idea what this is about :p</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOq-yy19UrehfC5jgvCRTt1zK1R8i42rzZKsUi68vpQgMzyZfFlyF8Vpbgwi9YaLGvZAxeFkoJpxhQ246U4tFm-yzC9kLrAYFpEOMIXEO07adCkGM62jTPKNHfDeoGH_c5IbJFMs3dwLm/s1600/DSC_0744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOq-yy19UrehfC5jgvCRTt1zK1R8i42rzZKsUi68vpQgMzyZfFlyF8Vpbgwi9YaLGvZAxeFkoJpxhQ246U4tFm-yzC9kLrAYFpEOMIXEO07adCkGM62jTPKNHfDeoGH_c5IbJFMs3dwLm/s640/DSC_0744.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy times</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winners trophy presented by Dave Kennedy</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-23573352523907921772013-12-09T20:59:00.003-08:002013-12-09T20:59:17.392-08:00Trying something new<h2>
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<i style="font-family: 'Open Sans', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 26px;"><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">By attempting something really difficult and outside of your comfort zone,</span></b></i></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Open Sans', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 26px; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 26px;"><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">you will discover how strong you really are - Anonymous</span></b></i></div>
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There has been quite a lot happening the last few weeks in my running life and I'm really psyched and excited to see where things are heading.<br />
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I have gone back and forwards over the last 9 or 10 months trying to decide whether I wanted to link up with some kind of running coach. There were different ideas in my mind about what that would involve, but I thought I could benefit from the use of someone who has far more knowledge than me about all things running. I liked some components of having a coach but disliked the idea of being told what to do and when to do it. Part of me thought that I had already had a few good performances based off what I was doing and did I really need a coach? After speaking with a few good running mates I was put onto the best in the business as far as endurance coaches go in <a href="http://www.mile27.com.au/about-4/andy-dubois/" target="_blank">Andy Dubois</a> from Mile27 Personal Training.<br />
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Andy has a wealth of personal experience in ultra/endurance events including insane performances at the Ultra Trail Mont Blanc (UTMB), Ironman and has represented Australia in the World Mountain Running Champs to name a few. Coupling his own physical ability with the knowledge gained through years of study, it's pretty safe to say this guy knows his stuff!<br />
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Any nerves or doubt I had about running coaches were wiped within the first few minutes when talking to Andy on the phone. I was instilled with confidence that I had chosen the right guy. After seeing me run via video, Andy was kind enough to say it was pretty much natural ability behind my results to date as my core strength and flexibility were less than desirable. Funny to hear but also really exciting to think what I might be capable of once my hips loosen up and my glutes get stronger :)<br />
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I'm only into the first week of the training/strength and conditioning program but I feel like I am already reaping the benefits of the strength and stretching routine I am doing twice daily. It's going to be cool to see how things pick up from here!<br />
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It's been awesome being back running the last week feeling that my knee injury from GOW is completely behind me and my niggly hamstring seems to have settled down too. I managed to sneak a win at the Perth Trail Series 12km Moon Shadow night race a couple of weeks ago which was awesome. Such a cool race on some really awesome trails!<br />
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I have the <a href="http://www.6inchtrailmarathon.com/" target="_blank">6 Inch Trail Marathon</a> coming up this Sunday which is going to be awesome!! I have missed out on running 6 Inch the last couple of years because of injury so despite my lack of preparation I am really pumped about the race. The competition this year is going to be stronger than ever and it's going to be faaaaaaaast from start to finish. I have no expectations for this race as it is more part of my build-up for the Hong Kong 100 in mid January. Despite this I know full well that as soon as the start gun goes it will be game time!<br />
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Some of the big guns racing are last years champ <a href="http://jamessheldonroberts.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">James Roberts</a>, race record holder Gerry Hill, Tom Bakowski, Etienne Rodriguez, Kev Matthews, Brendan Davies from the east coast, Craig Berg, Brett Coombs, Jon Pendse and many many more. It's going to be super tough to get anywhere near the podium and it's so great there is such a competitive field for a trail race in WA.<br />
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Sunday just can't come quick enough ;)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy times making our way to the start line for the Moon Shadow 12km night trail race<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz, Kate and I at Moon Shadow</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Liz doing our favourite local run from home</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-41181913498934842362013-10-20T15:59:00.001-07:002013-10-20T15:59:05.908-07:00“The person who really wants to do something finds a way; the other finds an excuse.” Sir John Marks Templeton<span style="font-size: large;">It's now a little over a week since the Great Ocean Walk 100km and I've now had time to think about the day I had on the beautiful trails of the Victorian coast and what unfolded.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The race kicked off in beautifully mild conditions at 6:30am when we were greeted with a fantastic sunrise as we made our way along the flat walking track from Apollo Bay to Marengo. The plan as always was to go out at a conservative but comfortable pace and let the day unfold before me. There were a bunch of really keen runners up front going pretty fast including Stu Gibson and Blake Hose who were from what I had gathered going to be the main competition for the day. I was more than happy watching them up ahead and was enjoying the warmth of the early morning sun.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The first leg from Apollo Bay to the Blanket Bay Checkpoint was relatively undulating, a few climbs here and there and also a couple of sections running along the soft sandy beaches which was nice to mix up the terrain. After about 8km I had caught up to youngster Blake Hose and Damian Smith who I had actually run the first 15km or so at the Glasshouse 100km with last September. For the next little while we chatted and made our way through some nice single track and ducked under and around the fallen trees that were taking over parts of the trail. About 4km from the checkpoint it started flattening out and became more downhill where Damian and Blake started pushing a quicker pace of around 4min k's which I felt was a touch quick with more than 80km to go so I eased off leading into the aid station. After a quick bottle change I ended up exiting the aid station before both of the guys and made my way along some more awesome single track.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">A couple of km later Blake caught me up and we were running along one behind the other for around about 10km. The single track through here was mind blowing! Narrow, windy and in parts technical - we were having a blast. There was a really soft sandy section at around about the 32km mark. It only went on for approx. 1.5km but by the time I had made my way onto some firmer terrain I knew something was up. Initially I thought it was just one of the many aches and groans I have learned through ultrarunning that come and go for no apparent reason. So my initial response to the pain was that it was only going to be temporary and soon I would have the spring back in my step and would be on my way again. A few km later I still had the pain and it had gotten worse. The more flexion I gave my knee the worse it got, the more load I put through it upon landing the worse it got. I was left thinking that only 10 minutes ago I was smiling and happy about how the race was unfolding. Stu was around 5-10mins ahead going fast and hard, and Blake had pulled away from me and was putting on a bit of a break which meant I was able to do what I love best and just cruise along at my pace, nice and quiet through the bush. Although it was around here that the race for me had ended and it was now just about finishing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Coming into the 41km aid station at Aire River, I had spent the last 20 minutes or so contemplating pulling out. The only positives I could find out of my new 'situation' was that going uphill wasn't quite as painful as everything else. As I came in Liz must have known something was up when she asked if I was ok. Generally in a 100km race runners would aim to feel pretty awesome through 40km as there is still a hell of a long way to go. My reply was short as I grabbed some more water and food before making my way out of the aid station. I figured that if I stopped the chances of a DNF were much higher.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I knew that leaving Aire River I only had around 14km or so to get to Johanna Beach which from there was the toughest and hilliest part of the course through to the 80km checkpoint at The Gables. My plan was to battle my way through to Johanna Beach, take some time to recoup there and then set off on the hills from there. To say the next 14km were tough is a ridiculous understatement. Combining the pain with the frustration that everything else on my body seemed to feel fine was tough. Everything was wanting to race except for my knee. My jogging into the 40km aid had now turned into a ridiculous ultra shuffle/walk/limp. It got progressively worse through to Johanna Beach at 55km. The last km into the checkpoint along Johanna Beach was brutal, I felt pretty useless as anything more than a slow walk was really painful on the soft sand.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'll keep this short and say that from Johanna Beach (55km) through to The Gables (80km) was absolutely brutal. Emotions were high as I was coming to terms with the fact that I was going to likely have to pull from the race. Now my knee was excruciatingly painful, steep downhills were being performed backwards and the only time I was able to shuffle seemed to be on certain inclines where my knee briefly went from excruciating pain to slightly less excruciating pain for about 20-30secs. I was trying to understand how the rest of my body was feeling strong and good to go but my knee was hampering any decent forward progress. During this section, eventual 2nd place Damian, 3rd place Dan Beard and lead woman Jo Brischetto had passed me looking pretty good.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Coming into the 80km checkpoint I had the best km I'd had since before the 32km mark. As I shuffled/jogged my way up the hill a good friend Andre made comment that it was nice seeing me running again and that I was the only runner in the top 4 to run that whole hill. I've since found out this might not have been 100% correct but it helped in convincing me to finish so it worked, Cheers Andre ;)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It was funny how 1km of slightly less demoralising running put me in a better headspace coming into the aid station. After spending the last 25km urging my body along telling it that it would all stop at the 80km mark. I had gone back and forward, finish or DNF...DNF or finish. The whole time I thought about how I felt after the Tarawera 100km where I did DNF and how bad that felt and still feels. I started doing the math in my head and worked out I only had to cover approx 3.5km an hour to make the 18hour cutoff. For those that know me well know I'm not a huge fan of walking at the best of times, but I had come to grips and was ok with the fact I was going to have to walk this one in. After some ice and massage treatment from the race doctor at the aid station and a few mouths full of coke I got up quickly as the 2nd woman Janet Ng from Hong Kong had left. I figured if I could maybe hang onto her for even 1km then it was 1 less I had to do on my own.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The next 7 or 8km were easily the best km's I'd had since early on in the day. Still ridiculously slow for me but they had slightly more shuffling than walking and even some sub 10min km's so I was trying to take the positives from that. I'd managed to catch up to and pass Jo who was also having a really tough day on the trails and she did incredibly well to finish, super strong and showed great courage. A couple of km later the coke, massage and ice wore off - damn it. I knew it wasn't going to last forever but was ambitiously thinking if I could get to 95km or so that'd be great! Around 89km Janet passed me again on a dead flat gravel road section doing about 5:30min km's. I hung on for about 12 metres and then realised I wasn't kidding anybody. Back to my shuffle-limp which I had become slightly more efficient at over the last 55km or so.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Some of the short and steep descents over the final few km were brutal. My knee as it had done for the past 7hrs felt as though someone was stabbing me in the side of it. The scenery over the final section was incredible like the rest of the course. Coming up over a rise and seeing the 12 Apostles was surreal. Even amongst the pain and frustration they were truly amazing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I crossed the line in 11:35:48 for 4th male and 5th overall behind Janet who ran an amazing 11:23! I pretty much stumbled my way over the line where my knee finally buckled beneath me. I was done, no more pain and I could finally switch off. Mentally this race was my toughest assignment yet. Somehow convincing myself numerous times that it was a good idea to push through the pain and finish the race, I'm still not sure how I did.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Post race things haven't been too bad. An appointment with my sports doctor and physio have revealed that it was literally a combination of bad luck and timing. Because of tapering before the race my glutes and ITB tightened up and switched off and combining that with the soft sandy running it was basically asking too much biomechanically of my body. The reason it was so painful was because there are so many nerves etc in the knee joint which basically starts to settle down as soon as you stop. That's also the reason why the body feels so good now, because I was hampered by my knee my other muscle groups were only able to work to a certain threshold. It's nice to know I haven't done any major damage and it is now just a case of strengthening my glutes and core muscles to relieve the load on my ITB's.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Looking forward I feel that my experience here has only made me stronger. I now know I have been to a really dark place and come out on top which I can use for my next race. It has almost given me confidence leading into 2014 where I am likely going to be attempting my first 100 miler, because that distance is a whole new challenge physically and even more so mentally.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Finally, congratulations to Blake for winning the race in his first 100km, keep an eye on this guy! And also Damian and Dan for rounding out the podium. Congratulations to Janet for a cracking run and Katherine and Jo on the women's side of the podium. Also congrats to everyone who finished a tough 100km course. Thanks to Andy and Brett for putting on an awesome race and all of the amazing supporters and volunteers for helping make this race happen. Thanks to my support crew Isaac you were awesome and also to Nick and Lisa for coming down to support as well. Not wanting to let you all down was a big motivator for pushing through the pain :)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">As always I cannot say enough thank yous to Liz. Amidst all the dark moments I only had to think of her to bring out a smile. As tough as this whole experience was I knew that seeing her at the aid stations was going to give me a boost, or at least a kick up the backside to hurry me along ;) Already looking forward to our next race together.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Thanks to my sponsors Hoka One One, RaceReady, Ryders Eyewear and Peak Podiatry. I am very thankful for your continued support of me following my passion.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Until next time...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>Some images courtesy of Patchanida Pongsubkarun, thankyou so much for capturing some of my race.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Crossing the creek before the Blanket Bay aid station</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Approaching the Blanket Bay aid station</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Staying dry before the Blanket Bay aid station</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy times early on, obviously not realising what the sand was doing to me</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eQdJSyBxutxvQzDXq_I0wxFEA50Wdu74_fkNXF5dILUHsYJ1BrTkH7ceQcwEvGdUw2GNNBVUgxlOOG4ZCvPinLjYp0WlBKwM0FkJg9ig1242Cp-2KOXgSvt2LINKcXo_yDQVZODmIXKL/s1600/GOW5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eQdJSyBxutxvQzDXq_I0wxFEA50Wdu74_fkNXF5dILUHsYJ1BrTkH7ceQcwEvGdUw2GNNBVUgxlOOG4ZCvPinLjYp0WlBKwM0FkJg9ig1242Cp-2KOXgSvt2LINKcXo_yDQVZODmIXKL/s640/GOW5.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Approaching Aire River aid station (41km) the beginning of the end</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Feeling the pinch</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Likely the moment where Andre had told me the good news ;)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stoked to finish, rest time now!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Broken but not beaten</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrlsfAQjd5bGi8pob2pd51pYNcyNdtvUw23vt8mLzIyYxcO4VbvJghhb9EwVErib4XLU_EOdaExyyLKml6AgVEpSsIKiaHEh-mma21OyCYSvtOlaaZZr78Ks1kEbGf4VZL28oGu0NZXQC/s1600/GOW12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrlsfAQjd5bGi8pob2pd51pYNcyNdtvUw23vt8mLzIyYxcO4VbvJghhb9EwVErib4XLU_EOdaExyyLKml6AgVEpSsIKiaHEh-mma21OyCYSvtOlaaZZr78Ks1kEbGf4VZL28oGu0NZXQC/s640/GOW12.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The amazing scenery approaching the Aire River aid station</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguPBMhMVkDrnUx-EnoeX-3UupSgiRG_Xiyv7_MN3dMKbfklIhlw6Vl8YtFWVKlLBZCoVhg5wcJ-jEjYeZHhHaWsv8bE5tIDPya2-upNvdy6vppvUWs_LDfQ5jM1X-iANE2lOd6Aac5W0n4/s1600/GOW13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguPBMhMVkDrnUx-EnoeX-3UupSgiRG_Xiyv7_MN3dMKbfklIhlw6Vl8YtFWVKlLBZCoVhg5wcJ-jEjYeZHhHaWsv8bE5tIDPya2-upNvdy6vppvUWs_LDfQ5jM1X-iANE2lOd6Aac5W0n4/s640/GOW13.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pre race crew photo</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Wdwf86KACOA7wT_6BL2TOyAwZG9pjwWb3HMahaZW5oP7nTD_peacxME0nJX5ysqks9Wr9gPGsWvqhXtp70-MXmzpS_XE_xjkPhtvUfAxsiG_3c4XlycJJgoh0Uao4IDBCUnD3VuNWCsu/s1600/GOW17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Wdwf86KACOA7wT_6BL2TOyAwZG9pjwWb3HMahaZW5oP7nTD_peacxME0nJX5ysqks9Wr9gPGsWvqhXtp70-MXmzpS_XE_xjkPhtvUfAxsiG_3c4XlycJJgoh0Uao4IDBCUnD3VuNWCsu/s640/GOW17.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Trying to do a patch up job to get a few more km's out of my knee</span></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-91790324849709703642013-09-06T21:59:00.001-07:002013-09-06T21:59:46.604-07:00Explaining the magic!Hoka One One running shoes have definitely turned a few heads over the last couple of years with many runners giving them a go and loving them and many sitting on the fence feeling rather sceptical about the "over sized" shoes. <div>
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From my own personal experience, like Andy DuBois, the man behind the article, I tried them once and have never looked back. They offer so many benefits for me and my running and I couldn't be happier with my running shoes.</div>
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So for those of you who already love the Hokas and those sitting on the fence, take a couple of minutes to read this well articulated article which addresses some key talking points behind the Hokas from a scientific point of view in easily understood terms. He also bullet points the pro's and the con's which summarises the talking points well.</div>
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If anyone has any questions or queries about the shoes feel free to drop me a message in the comments below or drop me a line on Facebook or Twitter.</div>
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Check out the article here: <a href="http://www.mile27.com.au/hoka/" target="_blank">http://www.mile27.com.au/hoka/</a></div>
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Scotty</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They might look a bit goofy but the shoes speak for themselves ;)</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-73361992907066801152013-09-01T21:31:00.000-07:002013-09-01T21:31:16.460-07:00Mr Incredible and an incredible weekIt's been a little quiet on here the past couple of months. In short, after a great race at the Hoka One One Kep Ultra 100k in June I then ended up having just under 8 weeks off. In the end this was due to an incorrect diagnosis from a doctor I was seeing, so it was pretty frustrating that this was the reason I wasn't out there on the trails.<br />
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Fast forward three weeks and I now had a Perth City to Surf Marathon entry in my mailbox which I was pretty excited about.
The three weeks back since my break had progressed really well. Weekly visits to my wonderful physio Ali and sports massage therapist Nathan ensured that I kept things under control as my mileage was building up again. The great thing about my physio is that she understands the game I am in and that generic rebuild programs aren't really suitable or relevant for me. Its great having confidence in people who do their absolute best at getting you back out on the trails.<br />
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So it was the Monday before the Perth City to Surf and I had somehow stumbled across an entry for the full marathon, I have wanted to do the City to Surf Marathon since moving to Perth, but the chance never really presented itself. On one hand I was really excited about finally being able to do it, and on the other hand, in all honesty, I was paranoid and scared that something was going to flare up again.<br />
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I think having such a long period of time off really plays on your mind and gives a feeling of uncertainty about how each run is going to pan out. I knew that the three weeks had gone well and I really had nothing to stress about but the thought of being back on the sidelines really scared me. At times during the rebuild from the time off I thought about whether I really wanted to be racing again and whether it was worth it. I was scared that through racing I would end up with more injuries. I knew at the time, and even more so now, that those were purely thoughts based on my emotional feelings at the time and I definitely didn't want to stop racing.<br />
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I know from previous experiences that once I'm on that start line it's all go. There's no such thing as not racing a race. I like to think I could run a race as a training run but know that wouldn't happen... I'm too competitive. So from that came the idea to run the marathon in costume. What better way to ensure it actually was a training run. My goal for the race was purely to treat it as a long training run and have some fun. So Liz and I headed off to the costume store to check out a few costume options. The guy at the store was really keen on the idea and couldn't have been more helpful. We narrowed it down to Fred Flinstone, Ironman and Mr Incredible. We decided on Mr Incredible as we all thought that was a pretty cool outfit.
Sunday morning was an early start as the race started at 6am so we had to be up and getting ready by 4:45am.<br />
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To say that I got some pretty funny looks and massive smiles is a huge understatement. The response from people on the start line was absolutely awesome, I was pretty surprised that friends still recognised me as Mr Incredible. The starter's gun fired and we were off. I started off in the second row of runners ensuring I wasn't in the way of the flying Kenyans and Big Kev. About 100m down the road I decided to make my way up to the front alongside BK and Trailblazer and in front of the mighty Kenyan runners.<br />
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We weren't in front for long but I think it ensured Mr Incredible was going to get on tv which I thought would look pretty funny.
As I slowed down and settled into a comfortable pace I had quite a few runners fly past me, a few of which gave encouraging words saying to make sure I made it to the finish line. Everyone was so supportive, I kind of wish I had a better story as to why I was dressed up other than I thought it would be pretty funny and a reason to slow me down and avoid injury.<br />
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I went through the first half in 1:25:42 which felt really comfortable. I didn't have a target pace for this race, I was more just wanting to make sure I stayed well below my threshold and not do anything silly. After hearing from friends that the second half is where the hills were, I was pretty keen to stay with the pace I was running as long as it stayed easy.<br />
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Crossing back through the start line I got huge cheers with people clapping and taking photos, I've never had so much attention in a race before which was pretty cool.
As we started getting into the hilly sections I found myself picking off runners one by one as we were moving along the course. I made sure I eased up on the hills and kept things cruisy. A lot of runners had gone out pretty hard and were now suffering because of this. I think I passed around 13 people in the second half of the race including four people in the final 5km. The looks I got from the guys at the start who had said to make sure I made the finish line were priceless. It must have looked pretty funny seeing Mr Incredible running along at a touch over 4min km pace ;)
I crossed the line in 2:51:14 for 19th place overall and first superhero. Running up the finishing chute was a really cool experience. Hearing people yelling out "go Mr Incredible" was absolutely classic. I must admit that before the race I wasn't sure how people would take me running along in costume, but after the amount of people and especially the kids I made smile it was definitely a good choice. High fiving kids and drink station volunteers out on the course just added to the experience for me. I have honestly never had so much fun in a race before!<br />
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After I crossed the line I had the Channel 9 tv crew come over to me asking if they could ask a few questions which was pretty funny. It was all pretty chaotic at the finish line so hopefully I didn't embarrass myself too much.
The Perth City to Surf for me could not have been a better experience that I will remember for the rest of my life, it was everything I expected and more. I will definitely be back in 2014 for round two.
The past week since City to Surf has been nothing short of fantastic! I almost feel like a new runner these days. I am really learning from past experiences and using that knowledge for the future. I think this is partly because I am scared of not being able to run, I am making a constant effort to make good decisions as far as my training goes and my rest and recovery.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Finish line, all done!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming up the finishing chute</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CriYL0VW4I3bxIfkbamkLvZgj3MYYQV9GtiAc1G7b1Zom5b9w6QBVJ-rqg1j73QRvzSGYqvR87xuCv8rXzuYEOrAKovJAgNQm4GNciNKSAcB1yGZ-_RGdKeV6kaEgDJJP62WX3uCM9wV/s1600/20x30-PKAA0865+(1).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CriYL0VW4I3bxIfkbamkLvZgj3MYYQV9GtiAc1G7b1Zom5b9w6QBVJ-rqg1j73QRvzSGYqvR87xuCv8rXzuYEOrAKovJAgNQm4GNciNKSAcB1yGZ-_RGdKeV6kaEgDJJP62WX3uCM9wV/s640/20x30-PKAA0865+(1).jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the hills through Kings Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was really beautiful running alongside the Swan River with no cars on the road</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running through UWA</td></tr>
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Monday after the City to Surf Marathon involved my now traditional swim and spa recovery session which has been hugely beneficial for me. Tuesday was a nice 10km run with Liz and Kate which has now become a regular event, I especially look forward to this run (possibly the coffee and muffin afterwards is a drawcard). Wednesday was a 20km tempo run at Bold Park. I have been really enjoying running up here the last few weeks. It's a 20km circuit with over 500m vertical gain so a great place to train and also a good gauge of how training is progressing. Thursday was a massage with Nathan followed by a 10km run along the coast and a coffee and smoothie with our nieces Amitty and Piper. A new feature I've added into my week is pilates on Friday morning. I'm really starting to feel the benefits of the sessions and looking forward to seeing it continue to progress. Friday was where the fun for the weekend started. I planned on doing about 100km over the 3 day weekend starting with 20km out at Lesmurdie Falls N.P at night. I love night time running and it was great to be out there again. James ended up joining me for 10km which was nice for some company. Saturday morning was another early start as the plan was to meet James and Tom down south on the Bibbulmun Track near Mt Cooke. It's pretty much the hilliest part of WA near Perth so makes sense to utilise this awesome area. We ran 50km in a series of out and backs from where the car was parked. It was a really windy day but we got quite lucky with the weather as there wasn't much rain. The main focus of the weekend training was to ensure I woke up on Sunday morning feeling like I wasn't completely drained and on tired legs. I woke up on Sunday at 6am ready to throw my alarm clock at the wall as I felt like I needed more sleep. Then as I was laying there I thought about a line from a new book I had just started reading the night before from legendary ultra/trail/mountain runner Kilian Jornet saying something about not having your face on the sheets. I jumped out of bed all motivated and excited about hitting the trails again.
The run started a little slow as I think I was still waking up but I soon got into the swing of things. It was 31km with some nice hills from Kalamunda to Mundaring Weir and back. It was one of those runs you do when you just can't stop smiling and loving being in the bush. Moments like these are why I run trails. It was just me, the birds and a few kangaroos bouncing around. It was so silent and peaceful that I stopped and walked for a moment. I was looking up into the trees hearing the birds sing and thinking how good this was. I would have taken a self portrait but I don't think the iPhone has a wide angle lens to get my oversized smile in. I hope to have many more moments like these during other runs.
So, things have been going tremendously well and I feel I am progressing well towards the Great Ocean Walk 100km in October.
The weekly totals were:
Distance: 138.9km; Vert: 4880m gain; Hours: 12hr 42min.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1b6iNmuRlVszRjM8DTmxUF8cICYTcstUQFn4ENwT3LAUvD5sAHf6CQdc0ZJQex-lKReuLZU_9Tcfm3RJBE_cVs-hZ6TUonb5IRhOTaeQf6LmbECIba6NrwXl6lIkZyzvZrvXnU8jFTtY6/s1600/IMG_0946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1b6iNmuRlVszRjM8DTmxUF8cICYTcstUQFn4ENwT3LAUvD5sAHf6CQdc0ZJQex-lKReuLZU_9Tcfm3RJBE_cVs-hZ6TUonb5IRhOTaeQf6LmbECIba6NrwXl6lIkZyzvZrvXnU8jFTtY6/s640/IMG_0946.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Tom running off the top of Mt Cooke, it was as slippery as ice.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmVyi37e2F-HKF2onhcbM_PDPY55Bcc9MaARM2c9_OcUEEaIFVdj7rRAq9m9akEt522KopiHG7FNTp1x1ZFaFBz2lhwUsN-xvtm2JlF6L3WiismXljFnx8PSXu5-6kZUxNnKiUp5vH1Na/s1600/IMG_0954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmVyi37e2F-HKF2onhcbM_PDPY55Bcc9MaARM2c9_OcUEEaIFVdj7rRAq9m9akEt522KopiHG7FNTp1x1ZFaFBz2lhwUsN-xvtm2JlF6L3WiismXljFnx8PSXu5-6kZUxNnKiUp5vH1Na/s640/IMG_0954.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom and James climbing back up Mt Cooke</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTAUYTKTNfF-6pjb57Ooc4oybkPIj4OlIGJd6BLEe6R35EtFfrnwRrmRVG4Y6qhVBZNjlu1nk3MT1lYhhEmgfN7r-ATTWZvWgja8fCPH7IqSzGB4SNrzGa7XTwbC6xTZ3idBToPt23A7Iz/s1600/IMG_0957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTAUYTKTNfF-6pjb57Ooc4oybkPIj4OlIGJd6BLEe6R35EtFfrnwRrmRVG4Y6qhVBZNjlu1nk3MT1lYhhEmgfN7r-ATTWZvWgja8fCPH7IqSzGB4SNrzGa7XTwbC6xTZ3idBToPt23A7Iz/s640/IMG_0957.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice singletrack along the ridgeline</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaP4zZw23_IzIodCFlrIECZdzzrbaTFmwKDfO7Z5lYfEB2Q21tz1sQzUsL4UhdbIF08loFot_TW6hlC2gGpqvD0lx-3Mj2zJfVaya92a9VFGS0PE87WNe97GcCLKqj-lCPCOm3OBGd-ezL/s1600/IMG_0961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaP4zZw23_IzIodCFlrIECZdzzrbaTFmwKDfO7Z5lYfEB2Q21tz1sQzUsL4UhdbIF08loFot_TW6hlC2gGpqvD0lx-3Mj2zJfVaya92a9VFGS0PE87WNe97GcCLKqj-lCPCOm3OBGd-ezL/s640/IMG_0961.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me running back up Mt Cooke</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCoMsF0BM6PUEi35MLmuFgR8OjX-mlI4zkk3-xW03k3dmuuruNYTaJu-_EOaE3QIZOJlTqZfb3EpUbRXf77l4fWqcwelXuwTzFht-HF4T0FrY07U6I_S8qVrbZqukQaktp2a3qpFc3deyK/s1600/IMG_0964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCoMsF0BM6PUEi35MLmuFgR8OjX-mlI4zkk3-xW03k3dmuuruNYTaJu-_EOaE3QIZOJlTqZfb3EpUbRXf77l4fWqcwelXuwTzFht-HF4T0FrY07U6I_S8qVrbZqukQaktp2a3qpFc3deyK/s640/IMG_0964.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom and James working hard getting up Mt Vincent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkcrrXGEeCWgf9FMCjUO_uF2J81iZgVZvVtiyPlUE6Ja_yPtz7aHjzpINBVZqpW5_QaTB6vDg2732W_Sj-2Om2af9__esrw0GtF8N3U_IDVTHEet2snLFn77F51dfne5tfaH1xQ6CQKaw-/s1600/IMG_0965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkcrrXGEeCWgf9FMCjUO_uF2J81iZgVZvVtiyPlUE6Ja_yPtz7aHjzpINBVZqpW5_QaTB6vDg2732W_Sj-2Om2af9__esrw0GtF8N3U_IDVTHEet2snLFn77F51dfne5tfaH1xQ6CQKaw-/s640/IMG_0965.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panorama on the top of Mt Vincent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fyTWv6Q0EvnMxsm60WTI-OX-rU8MPjvfEzFaWplR3KbgIc45D2tZ5HQao3cfAC4FArRBQgGppf_CsgJu9rhnpFXjf2uYG78Rqn1M_ysBN2xwwBYVDmozjn2jErbS02dK2zZJnooneO6w/s1600/IMG_0966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fyTWv6Q0EvnMxsm60WTI-OX-rU8MPjvfEzFaWplR3KbgIc45D2tZ5HQao3cfAC4FArRBQgGppf_CsgJu9rhnpFXjf2uYG78Rqn1M_ysBN2xwwBYVDmozjn2jErbS02dK2zZJnooneO6w/s640/IMG_0966.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice running through the forest section</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtgoZg6_HqhXC3-cac_ANJQnpouLVp65UE22OPkSbFfXZLRpAM5_Tfqcb9qWESQQlOZH6ohj93IG-_edtNWmvgrtDIXPxQDB2z3_6g19HZnLtM08BGBriGgVkvQnTDbFUTgDKIUjjPGLMM/s1600/IMG_0968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtgoZg6_HqhXC3-cac_ANJQnpouLVp65UE22OPkSbFfXZLRpAM5_Tfqcb9qWESQQlOZH6ohj93IG-_edtNWmvgrtDIXPxQDB2z3_6g19HZnLtM08BGBriGgVkvQnTDbFUTgDKIUjjPGLMM/s400/IMG_0968.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty windy so needed the hat backwards ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-34311260797834316452013-08-19T00:42:00.000-07:002013-08-19T00:42:28.858-07:00Ryders Eyewear AmbassadorI am really happy and privileged to now be a part of the <a href="http://www.ryderseyewear.com.au/" target="_blank">Ryders Eyewear</a> team as a Ryders Eyewear Ambassador. I came across Ryders sunglasses over a year ago now after being told from a good running mate of mine that they were a really good product. I had previously spent hundreds of dollars and a lot of time trying to find some good sunglasses to hit the trails with, but always came up short for one reason or another. It's pretty safe to say as soon as I got my first pair I was hooked. They fit and feel great, and there is no bounce at all when charging down steep technical downhills, another reason they are perfect for what I'm needing on the trails.<br />
<br />
There is a fantastic range to choose from as far as frames and lenses go so they pretty much cater for whatever you are looking for in a pair of sunglasses. From golf to running, they have you covered. The quality different lens options is a massive positive, especially living in Perth where summers are always bright, and also being able to protect my eyes from dust etc throughout other seasons. I couldn't be happier with the <a href="http://www.ryderseyewear.com.au/" target="_blank">Ryders</a> sunglasses and am proud to be a part of the team.<br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3NHXBLL5ou-ZJ-_ABo3nm1YElSq3tYtaXwiPrV8j2LWBmk3bJWMsDFW1for4M7DVAOuN9bDyEu4P1dGC3n4vYMWhyphenhyphen5oah-mydr3vVxh7XCAI3eHPkr-pp5NmlbLy1fxGReGjMrg01Lx3/s1600/Ryders+Banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3NHXBLL5ou-ZJ-_ABo3nm1YElSq3tYtaXwiPrV8j2LWBmk3bJWMsDFW1for4M7DVAOuN9bDyEu4P1dGC3n4vYMWhyphenhyphen5oah-mydr3vVxh7XCAI3eHPkr-pp5NmlbLy1fxGReGjMrg01Lx3/s640/Ryders+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-73095601450706918422013-07-20T05:57:00.000-07:002013-07-20T05:59:08.575-07:00Tasmania in photographsSome images from our recent trip to Tasmania. It was a truly awesome trip, we had an absolute blast exploring some of the amazing parts of Tassie! Looking forward to returning someday soon!<br />
<br />
See the link for photo's :) - <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/91190227@N06/sets/72157634588084119/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Tasmania 2013</span></a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XPGVmbdqH1D_SixLcZwwNFU0ZAwOEeRRrXayt-iSyQZCTR3Zoy7ua_EskpqCvc4dr_1D4el3a8ZPjcMwXBMDHrMIB_noWlYDEnJMSNVF-N7iekixT7HgMnwWcjNmqWjhbB8Dh2BxA24n/s1600/DSC_6739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XPGVmbdqH1D_SixLcZwwNFU0ZAwOEeRRrXayt-iSyQZCTR3Zoy7ua_EskpqCvc4dr_1D4el3a8ZPjcMwXBMDHrMIB_noWlYDEnJMSNVF-N7iekixT7HgMnwWcjNmqWjhbB8Dh2BxA24n/s640/DSC_6739.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liffey Falls, Tasmania</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-5354656619147248652013-07-01T21:46:00.000-07:002013-07-01T21:46:11.144-07:00A Kiwi, an Aussie and an Irishman head out for a run<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Kiwi, an Aussie and an Irishman head out for a run. During the 35km run in 36deg heat they had time to chat a bit... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">About an hour down the trail... Kiwi: "I might have a gel in a minute bro" Aussie: "Cool mate, I might have one too" Meanwhile the Irishman in the meantime has pulled out a hardboiled egg and a bag of salt and vinegar crisps and is chugging them back whilst on the run.... "Back home I normally have a pack of Tim Tams with me in me rucksack lads, but tis a bit warm in Perth for that carry on"</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've never laughed so hard on the trails than when my good mate Thomas pulled out a smorgasbord of treats on our first run together. I thought now this guy is hardcore!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Your chance to win 2 pairs of the sweet new Hoka One One's about to hit Australian coastlines in September!!
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All details on the pic, can be as simple as 500 words or less, or a quick 3min video telling a sweet, crazy or downright nasty running story </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anything goes... GET ONTO IT!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhsSZUxdqGBBeGDuK9eUY1YzIrx2nZFZILTYboBQgvaK7DiyegojYStFmOTqKSlO0zveXqiq-vSr7TwL5ZPtwBM1QEsIFYd67DtNNH1z_GPCV12hPKZFbUu6XUAeVVGVG4FuuPLJVcAAv/s1000/Hoka+running+story+promo+1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhsSZUxdqGBBeGDuK9eUY1YzIrx2nZFZILTYboBQgvaK7DiyegojYStFmOTqKSlO0zveXqiq-vSr7TwL5ZPtwBM1QEsIFYd67DtNNH1z_GPCV12hPKZFbUu6XUAeVVGVG4FuuPLJVcAAv/s640/Hoka+running+story+promo+1a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-58291309148313079702013-06-26T22:54:00.000-07:002013-06-26T23:03:25.905-07:00Reflection<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';"><i><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">“The
real glory is being knocked to your knees and then coming back. That’s real
glory” – Vince Lombardi (Football Coach)<o:p></o:p></span></b></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">I
think the more I run and the more I understand my body, the better I am at accepting
that sometimes things just happen for a reason. Sometimes those reasons might
seem so blurred in what is normally such a clear pathway for me. It’s as simple
as putting on some shoes, finding a trail and immersing yourself in the beauty that
surrounds it, simple right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">If
only trail and ultra running could be that simple and have that lack of
complexity that we all wish it could. I mean that’s what draws a lot of people
to running in the first place; it is just you and the trail. No thousand-dollar
bike, no kayak carriers, and no fumes coming out the back end…well only
sometimes!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">I
have found the last few weeks that I have learnt so much about myself through
not being able to get out on the trails and having way too much time to think
about what I’d rather be doing. It’s not like it’s the first time I have ever
had a lay off period from running so nothing too ground breaking to share.
Although this time around I have found that although still not perfect, I feel like I
am able to deal with injury much better and with more understanding. Things
weren’t like this last year when I would beat myself up over and over again because of not being able to
run and I would find myself in a really unhappy place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">I’m
not sure if a switch flicked or whether it’s been the constant support from Liz
through these tougher times for me. Probably the combination of a few things. I’m definitely not claiming to be the most
passionate, dedicated and die hard runner going around but these layoffs seem
to really throw things off track for me as many others must find as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">I
have found a few different ways to take my mind off things including getting my
camera out after a bit of a quiet patch with taking photos and also doing some
swimming and bike riding. I have been reminding myself that there is much more
to life than just running. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">I
think in times like these when you have a bit more time to think it is
important to not lose sight of the things that make you happy. Sure running is
a massive component in my life and I hope to do this for years to come but
there have to be other things stimulating you outside of running. Before now I
found it hard not to dwell on the fact I couldn’t run and would always rush
back into things too soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">For
now I am quite content on seeing how things pan out, accepting things for what
they are and making the best out of every situation that comes my way. If that means finding other interesting ways to get the heart rate up then I'm cool with that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">I’m
really keen on getting in the pool as much as possible as it’s something that
as an adult I have really come to enjoy, despite getting overtaken by 60 year
old ladies </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';"> I know they must be
thinking “oh that poor young chap” but secretly stoked to be overtaking a bloke
in his mid 20’s.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">So
the next few weeks are to involve plenty of rest, reading and other forms of getting
some cardio in. Throw in some stretching and strengthening and I’ll be back on
the trails soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';">Until
then…<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCXjZvQmJn2JmRGcfLS1EofjwNcgzrFUurp4Ivs2crqd4uJYyv9cY89iA9YBYhRhKOirBZNiulaAQLTH02FiMmdsrCQTlTcLBxWlVvvvfUEmPAuBt8TUpaxOpkjOqXjWgBg4KgvdchlKBJ/s1600/IMG_0730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCXjZvQmJn2JmRGcfLS1EofjwNcgzrFUurp4Ivs2crqd4uJYyv9cY89iA9YBYhRhKOirBZNiulaAQLTH02FiMmdsrCQTlTcLBxWlVvvvfUEmPAuBt8TUpaxOpkjOqXjWgBg4KgvdchlKBJ/s640/IMG_0730.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking some time to slow down and enjoy some reading again :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-53977860156658894162013-06-09T19:46:00.001-07:002013-06-09T20:17:44.305-07:00Hoka One One Kep Ultra 100 2013We decided this year after two years of doing the 2hr drive to Northam at 3.30am that we would splash out, go a little crazy and get a hotel room for the night before the race. It was nice to finally do this drive in daylight and see some of the nice landscapes that the area had to show. After arriving in Northam and realising I hadn't had my daily caffeine fix I was pretty keen to attend to this matter as soon as possible so we took to driving the streets of Northam in search of the coffee bean. Northam is a small town approx. 100km northeast of Perth with a population of around 7000 people, so it's pretty safe to say we had to do a bit of searching. Eventually we found a lovely little cafe on the waterfront of the Avon River and only 50m from where the race starts!<br />
<br />
I put my name down to do the 100km at Kep back in Feb/March and initially had the intention of making it an 'A' race for my racing year. That soon changed when I realised that we were only going to be getting back from our month long holiday in the US a week before the race. The reason for this was mainly because I thought it was going to be difficult to get specific 'Kep' related training sessions in when in different cities for the first time.<br />
<br />
The race started at 7am and for the first time at Kep I wasn't nervous or over thinking things. Whether that was because we weren't in a rush getting there in the morning or because I was doing the 100km this year or maybe because I wasn't sure what to expect as far as my own performance goes. Whatever the reason I was feeling really good standing on the start line chatting to friends and ready for what the day was going to bring.<br />
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Early on in the race I kept things really conservative and let good mate James and a few others doing the 75km option take off and do the pace setting up front. They were flying along and I had no intention of trying to keep up with them at all. About 5km in I settled in with a group of 75km runners being good mates Mick Francis, Tim Eva and Sean Coops. It was really cool doing a race in my own back yard chatting along with friends as we were cruising along the heritage trail. The photo's show this well thanks to the fantastic camera work of Steve Fraser. Check out his work <a href="http://stevefraser.co/Default.aspx" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
<br />
At the 19km aid station at Clackline I arrived with only Mick and Andrew Wait who had joined us along the road section just before Clackline. After a quick bottle swap and stocking up on more gels and Hammer Perpetuem I was off again heading for aid station 2 at Wooroloo. Wooroloo was another 24km along the trail and was much of the same kind of trail since the start in Northam. Along this section we passed the infamous Bakers Hill pie shop which is always a favourite for the volunteers and support crew, including Mrs Hawker whom happened to be in the shop when I ran past as I found out from Rob Rob who must have finished his pie quickly to get back out on the trail.<br />
<br />
Not long after Bakers Hill was where Andrew made a bit of a gap on Mick and I and was looking really strong and comfortable. Mick made a quick stop at the 34km mark to top up water and nutrition where I then made a bit of a break on Mick. At Wooroloo Andrew took a bit longer than Mick and I as we left the aid after another re-stock of supplies. My plan from Wooroloo (43km) to Mt Helena Aid (61km) was to pick up the pace as the trail flattened out during this section. After leaving the aid and a few words with Mick I started making my way to Helena. This section although relatively flat still had a few ups and downs that I had forgotten about but my goal pace of 4:40min/km was being achieved pretty comfortably. As I had left aid 2 I found out that James and the lead 75km guys were a touch over 15mins ahead of me, so naturally as I was heading for Mt Helena I was asking for time updates as I could. By the time I got to Mt Helena I was only 6min behind those lead guys and had secretly hoped to catch them. The aid station at Mt Helena went super smooth, as they had done all day thanks to Liz and her sweet aid station skills. I left Helena feeling really good and was really looking forward to the next section of the trail to the Belleview (80km) aid.<br />
<br />
Mt Helena to Belleview was pretty uneventful, as I had done all day I was keeping tabs on my hydration and nutrition making sure I didn't forget to take my gels or endurolytes as I sometimes do. I was also continuing to make sure I wasn't overdoing things on the downhills as I knew this could come back to haunt me in the final 20km to the finish. I had a great time running along the Heritage Trail through John Forrest National Park and it was really nice to see so many people out and about and plenty of kids cruising around on bikes along the trail. Belleview aid was short and sweet getting what I needed off Liz including an extra soft flask of water to take as things had heated up as the sun came out for a while. Then it was time for me to tackle the final 20km of uphill trails to the finish line at Mundaring Weir.<br />
<br />
Emotions were high as I left the final aid station and headed for the finish. I have wanted to do the 100km at Kep for a couple of years now and it was so great to finally be leaving Belleview knowing that soon I would finish the 100. The whole day up until that point had been such a blast, running with mates, seeing my wife at aid stations and being amongst such a fantastic group of people in this race.<br />
<br />
As I knew they would, the final hills of the last 20km started to hurt. A couple of times in the last 20km I stopped and walked very briefly as I started questioning my pacing from early on. These stops were only brief and I got moving well again pretty quickly. During this final section I had one of those unsure moments where one has to decide whether to overtake a fellow runner on the trails or not pending on whether you think you can hold this pace. The fellow runner was a young lady running along with her dog so surely I could make the move right...? I took a few moments to decide and thought I might as well give it a crack. I'll be honest and say I was pretty much running scared for the first time in the race as I really really didn't want to be re-overtaken by a young lady taking her schnitzel poodle pup thing for its afternoon exercise. This in hindsight was really good for me as it took my mind off the task at hand for a brief while and enabled me to get back on track.<br />
<br />
As I approached Mundaring Town, approx. 6.5km from the finish I had a new lease of life in the legs and felt pretty awesome. I think this is what some refer to as the runners high, it was freaking great! Instantly my pace went from 5:10ish to 4:30min/km and dropping. I knew this section of single track so well and was absolutely loving it. I had Bryn Donkersloot following me on bike doing a bit of video footage at this stage which was a nice bit of company. I remember saying to him with about 5km to go that things could get ugly in the last couple of km as I intended on picking up the pace from here to the finish. My final 5km went like a breeze as I was clocking km splits of around 4:30min/km and a final km of 4:05 as I flew up the hill to the finish line at the Perth Hills Conservation Centre. I stopped the clock in 8:17:06 for the win and course record by a touch over 45 minutes.<br />
<br />
I was absolutely stoked to take the win and I surprised myself with the time I ran. Our time in the US meant that my training was sporadic at best and nowhere near my usual training volume. I think I might have averaged 40-50km a week in the US which is some 100ish km short of normal. This definitely helped in some ways as I was much fresher than normal but now I am excited what time might be possible on the back of a good training block.<br />
<br />
Thanks to my sponsors Hoka One One and RaceReady for their continued support and assisting me with my running. A huge thank you to Rob Donkersloot and his fantastic group of volunteers and support people who make this race happen. Congratulations to Mick Thwaites for running a 100km p.b and Tim for cracking the 10hour barrier for the first time. Well done to my training partner James who backed up at Kep with a solid 5:51 in the 75km for second place, and also to everyone else who ran in the Kep Ultra!<br />
<br />
As always I couldn't do any of this if it wasn't for the love and support of my amazing wife. For those of you who saw us at transitions, we have things pretty efficient and organised, and always time for a kiss ;)<br />
<br />
All things going well I hope to be lining up again next year and look forward to see what the 2014 Kep might bring.<br />
<br />
There is also some video footage to come soon from this years race! Will post here soon!!<br />
<br />
For those interested the gear I used was:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Hoka One One Bondi Speeds</li>
<li>RaceReady Active V Notch shorts</li>
<li>Injinji Performance 2.0 toe socks</li>
<li>Compressport R2 Race & Recovery Calf sleeves</li>
<li>Hoka One One run shirt</li>
<li>Buff Headwear </li>
<li>Amphipod 20oz Handhelds</li>
<li>Salomon Advanced Skin S-Lab belt set</li>
<li>Gu Gels (approx. 10-12 gels)</li>
<li>Hammer Perpetuem & Endurolytes</li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhck6dVwylPgI5e-Zqb7D6xG4_403QThy2CwHHZ6tPC2FMV3EJ0rN_8DB7PuwFwoau9W-g9_zHlwNfWPauIYJbvDAt9NQUWhHbIpNtYn_Ti3dG0BBgAompHXWPzhv_lhOFjGVQPERxt4mEj/s1600/DSC_8314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhck6dVwylPgI5e-Zqb7D6xG4_403QThy2CwHHZ6tPC2FMV3EJ0rN_8DB7PuwFwoau9W-g9_zHlwNfWPauIYJbvDAt9NQUWhHbIpNtYn_Ti3dG0BBgAompHXWPzhv_lhOFjGVQPERxt4mEj/s400/DSC_8314.JPG" width="321" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Knowing Liz is always there is a pretty good reason to keep pushing hard :)<br />
Image: Ron McGlinn</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJlzgTx7e4vVQahsRfUTo7aHku53HaFKs0P0Us9Ajo31Xp1YYDVJNOOT5eVkrol7P7xxWNFR_1qTr_lYIpT3DNeaOtrDNQuVOc2RvYXDF0ZLvcL5CXyhxbEas4DQApr4YQiXL6MUFKhwO/s1600/DSC_4114+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJlzgTx7e4vVQahsRfUTo7aHku53HaFKs0P0Us9Ajo31Xp1YYDVJNOOT5eVkrol7P7xxWNFR_1qTr_lYIpT3DNeaOtrDNQuVOc2RvYXDF0ZLvcL5CXyhxbEas4DQApr4YQiXL6MUFKhwO/s640/DSC_4114+KEP+2013.jpg" width="584" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">1 minute to go<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvx0EtKHsbC24G6ef5HhaxAeGzouoZJAHyqbA6po3E5C224QQbA38BMYfQMLiA7S7CRpQrhrbZ5QbPfxMcf-IWVbLRUqQxXmJB4_s9k0j3RHPEtIW-nDaCjLWBu7AISqagzq9XqKGClp8/s1600/DSC_4127+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvx0EtKHsbC24G6ef5HhaxAeGzouoZJAHyqbA6po3E5C224QQbA38BMYfQMLiA7S7CRpQrhrbZ5QbPfxMcf-IWVbLRUqQxXmJB4_s9k0j3RHPEtIW-nDaCjLWBu7AISqagzq9XqKGClp8/s640/DSC_4127+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">And we're off!!<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNeEeZtzX7Fs_PHe6DZkhQQxHidh5X0m2gXn0kDTXytBN2tmfUl4Nyp_7lSifpwSK21bJ2ryui4IDSeCi8uTKwa5jBYjnfYn3vgZyZtSH5EqlqvxVqMoqi_weD4Ohutzr8mVZG7Fx6rnh/s1600/DSC_4185+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNeEeZtzX7Fs_PHe6DZkhQQxHidh5X0m2gXn0kDTXytBN2tmfUl4Nyp_7lSifpwSK21bJ2ryui4IDSeCi8uTKwa5jBYjnfYn3vgZyZtSH5EqlqvxVqMoqi_weD4Ohutzr8mVZG7Fx6rnh/s640/DSC_4185+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Early on, L-R: Me, Mick Francis, Tim Eva, Sean Coops (Easily the most enjoyable part of the run for me)<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaMHbxMwr0Afw_DTgAfW15PdjhqaKF3wLaF5sqhkmM5GAk-xrXeMc9tfwVancPYQO75whsZE-4WU6oqosaHLQak5QDzaFpur7GdqF_DliYx1GHoxZ0zRGAbN1BCbt0j1nhqUfs0bYGZeI/s1600/DSC_4241+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaMHbxMwr0Afw_DTgAfW15PdjhqaKF3wLaF5sqhkmM5GAk-xrXeMc9tfwVancPYQO75whsZE-4WU6oqosaHLQak5QDzaFpur7GdqF_DliYx1GHoxZ0zRGAbN1BCbt0j1nhqUfs0bYGZeI/s640/DSC_4241+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Following the pipeline trail<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5xnQD45JXKqicOSc59ZSzsUbl4ePPz0T9McgAlTI4c6NkqdytwWlfjTAA1L-rlV1iNMciVh0ck8zTP-6ryhJ5diRMKLzetZf0TNXxGDyVNW7-X71ca7rEazez2o6l-RcN2r2zdT4e8XN/s1600/DSC_4309+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5xnQD45JXKqicOSc59ZSzsUbl4ePPz0T9McgAlTI4c6NkqdytwWlfjTAA1L-rlV1iNMciVh0ck8zTP-6ryhJ5diRMKLzetZf0TNXxGDyVNW7-X71ca7rEazez2o6l-RcN2r2zdT4e8XN/s640/DSC_4309+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Cruising through WA bushland<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfjK_4hzDQBZCfDEHKAdl6ay_F-VeDXGNKStR-WWkBFZY40INCsP33j7OiPaGK8PfrO4o5oCkN03In56APXbe_aEd8Q-6Vj9Op23hJ7DY_rhn8SHGeGu7tzT-z4gZUXQgiHkTOR7Ul4G6/s1600/DSC_4410+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfjK_4hzDQBZCfDEHKAdl6ay_F-VeDXGNKStR-WWkBFZY40INCsP33j7OiPaGK8PfrO4o5oCkN03In56APXbe_aEd8Q-6Vj9Op23hJ7DY_rhn8SHGeGu7tzT-z4gZUXQgiHkTOR7Ul4G6/s640/DSC_4410+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Me and Mick, trying to keep things steady on the fast road section before Aid 1 at Clackline<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVOQ1_SSbIyLb-vX4p5jVZ3W5OlFI_4oHrfs2SHGZGStgBh47uQppcbGcxVi5HVBVuhyphenhyphencO5xTV6EUHNQN5XOqyYOFgQ9g02YRm1nuSxAR0woRXgTXqLuRvPCQAilnYoOCmEgYcs8I_6dd/s1600/DSC_4522+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVOQ1_SSbIyLb-vX4p5jVZ3W5OlFI_4oHrfs2SHGZGStgBh47uQppcbGcxVi5HVBVuhyphenhyphencO5xTV6EUHNQN5XOqyYOFgQ9g02YRm1nuSxAR0woRXgTXqLuRvPCQAilnYoOCmEgYcs8I_6dd/s640/DSC_4522+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Just before Aid 1, Mick, Andrew Wait & Me<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxzMldrExZXNji_3_-dA-Colpzva_fjXLimy1iKqA_B6_B6FrzfI1jLLZk0lZAa3dSrJmXl6Qx59SnrcXh1GVG_Qyj3JdPCkjw38cYfOEPI2o-FdHVNPzeIVCWfmDCHulK4fw-L5KUMDV/s1600/DSC_4726+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxzMldrExZXNji_3_-dA-Colpzva_fjXLimy1iKqA_B6_B6FrzfI1jLLZk0lZAa3dSrJmXl6Qx59SnrcXh1GVG_Qyj3JdPCkjw38cYfOEPI2o-FdHVNPzeIVCWfmDCHulK4fw-L5KUMDV/s640/DSC_4726+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Long section of flat trail before Aid 2 at Wooroloo<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvdVKJfkrCAB5GFpoeNIWcZfEuDMZGx-LU8MvcyE7uOHSL6eyqK-gFkkCG0IgDDljuKlXyQeHOEe0Z2uUcH36iNCsEQiW10erCsPlhoTBHEvRy_HBFmWH88RPPdxd8B_Wg7RQD4kMG5_R/s1600/DSC_4817+KEP+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvdVKJfkrCAB5GFpoeNIWcZfEuDMZGx-LU8MvcyE7uOHSL6eyqK-gFkkCG0IgDDljuKlXyQeHOEe0Z2uUcH36iNCsEQiW10erCsPlhoTBHEvRy_HBFmWH88RPPdxd8B_Wg7RQD4kMG5_R/s640/DSC_4817+KEP+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Me and Mick at Wooroloo aid station<br />
Image: Steve Fraser</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RrOA6GQjRRFgp88m290rK7XE9sSf5Q9UgNYzWGy6ynhGqYp1IGFcImOhSs-zU_ABKAX5MuGM3GI4F8VZQt6HnNdwIl0DieE1EgEQNJKbP86tU6LhT2tIovTUmb-M8_vv9iEG3XJAWiIc/s1600/DSC_8092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RrOA6GQjRRFgp88m290rK7XE9sSf5Q9UgNYzWGy6ynhGqYp1IGFcImOhSs-zU_ABKAX5MuGM3GI4F8VZQt6HnNdwIl0DieE1EgEQNJKbP86tU6LhT2tIovTUmb-M8_vv9iEG3XJAWiIc/s1600/DSC_8092.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Ready for the swap<br />
Image: Ron McGlinn</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1B-lQ7dr-aKC_VGQnwUD1Xfa-HTNRoTQoiIdek_THMgR77QnEyz1NH46IMvVWz_WJMJUdW8OAOXFEXuVx6Tg05fVSTZeVnx25nr6iqi0me4Yh3A2a4KIb3PvYDdUndpAhcRnrlMas2asU/s1600/DSC_8309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1B-lQ7dr-aKC_VGQnwUD1Xfa-HTNRoTQoiIdek_THMgR77QnEyz1NH46IMvVWz_WJMJUdW8OAOXFEXuVx6Tg05fVSTZeVnx25nr6iqi0me4Yh3A2a4KIb3PvYDdUndpAhcRnrlMas2asU/s640/DSC_8309.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Final few metres<br />
Image: Ron McGlinn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKz5zdwAD6BSIZVIq2DgW-c_ZS4h2r3iCyisQ-f-UOHiDmjo_G1MhYLSbgfqYXwg8ZWO5TpcmL0hud1FTEmW2i5YmWZdkBEB2U5q-BF5UwD6boCJhoLYdXiY7a6lVTe7CiOkbugsiX0iZ/s1600/DSC_8310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKz5zdwAD6BSIZVIq2DgW-c_ZS4h2r3iCyisQ-f-UOHiDmjo_G1MhYLSbgfqYXwg8ZWO5TpcmL0hud1FTEmW2i5YmWZdkBEB2U5q-BF5UwD6boCJhoLYdXiY7a6lVTe7CiOkbugsiX0iZ/s640/DSC_8310.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Crossing the finish<br />
Image: Ron McGlinn</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0DSwReq3z09y_wbUu2xdTYGlXWn9Bpw3qOif1Q1V4U2XLaFHZNhvwEB2NoZDBrYqjMhij5SWWd7XMDxj1B-IML_xylMuUGmTFXS7juFB5KEXPSBqD3cgNBA7w9b10hybO-fMH2PU-nRLO/s1600/IMG_2324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0DSwReq3z09y_wbUu2xdTYGlXWn9Bpw3qOif1Q1V4U2XLaFHZNhvwEB2NoZDBrYqjMhij5SWWd7XMDxj1B-IML_xylMuUGmTFXS7juFB5KEXPSBqD3cgNBA7w9b10hybO-fMH2PU-nRLO/s640/IMG_2324.JPG" width="418" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Stoked to take the win in 8:17 and take a touch over 45mins off the old c.r<br />
Image: Ron McGlinn</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08501643992471615857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6832271270398444328.post-44415723612606638842013-04-23T06:22:00.002-07:002013-04-23T06:22:19.262-07:00Truth or Consequences 50kmThe Truth or Consequences 50km trail race was something I had been looking forward to since it was first created months ago. 2013 was going to be the inaugural running of the event and it had attracted some of Perth's best ultra and trail runners. The course involved two 25km loops, covering some very technical and, by Perth's standards, pretty hilly terrain. The course had a total elevation gain of approx. 1500m so I knew come the 2nd lap things were going to start to hurt!<br />
<br />
Forecast was for cool weather which every runner must have been looking forward to. As we settled into the first climb of the day my intentions for the first lap was to take things as easily as possible but ensure I stayed within contact of the front runners. Not long after the first climb of the day began, my good mate James was controlling the pace up front and I had settled in about 40-50 metres behind. About 6km in was the first aid station which was where the infamous "3 steps climb" commenced. This is a climb that I have done numerous times now but every time it seems to hurt just as much. About 200m into the climb I caught up to James and we ran some of the climb together until it got a bit steeper and we started power hiking which was where I put a bit of a gap on James. Soon after, James caught back up after a bit of a downhill which was where he was making up a lot of ground.<br />
<br />
After about 1hr 15min of running we were at the Jarrahdale aid station. It was pretty cool being in a race and being up front with one of my good mates. Throughout the previous 16km I kept on telling James about the awesome 9km of downhill single track that we got to tackle after the aid station. I jokingly said to James just after the aid station to look out because the super quick marathon runner Todd Ingraham might catch us on a brief 1.5km road section. I then looked over my shoulder to see another mate Tom chasing us hard on the road section. I was then pretty keen to get onto the technical single track and try and make a gap on Tom because I knew that he is a really strong runner.<br />
<br />
James and I had an absolute blast tearing along the single track trying to stay upright in certain parts due to things being really slippery because of some rain that had been falling. About 3km from the start/finish line I slowly started pulling away from James and ended up completing the first 25km loop in 1:55:xx with James close behind as I heard the crowd cheer him across the line.<br />
<br />
I finished the first lap feeling pretty good considering what we had just run and I was confident of running a solid second lap. I soon got into a groove and knew I had my climbing legs on today. The first decent climb hurt a little at the top but I was able to get all the way to the start of the 3 steps climb feeling pretty good. I felt before the race that this was where I was going to push hard on the second lap and make a break. The hills are always my strong point so figured here was going to be as good a time as any. The situation was quite different to what I had envisioned pre-race in that I was out front and after beginning the climb I could not see James, Tom or any others coming down the steep descent to the start of the next climb so I knew I had a reasonable lead.<br />
<br />
I kept things really steady through the flat section from about 8km-16km and was rolling off some 4ish minute km's and loving the rolling flat stuff and a few sub 4min km's on the downhill stuff. I was making sure I kept up with my nutrition and hydration plans to make sure I didn't fall apart later in the race. I went back to using GU gels for this race as my normal Perth provider of Hammer Gels had run out of any flavours I had used before. The GU's worked an absolute treat throughout the race and had no stomach issues and maintained pretty steady energy levels throughout the race.<br />
<br />
I was really looking forward to seeing Liz at the 16km aid station and had a quick few words whilst I filled up my handheld and then was off on my way. The legs were feeling a bit fatigued by now after covering 41km so I kept on reminding myself about my previous training sessions and that there was no point in doing core strength and speed tempo runs if I was just going to roll over and slow up just because I was a bit tired. And then I hit the single track! My legs instantly felt lighter and I must have looked like some crazy man to the bush walkers I was passing as I was hammering it along tight, technical single track with a big cheesy grin in the rain. I was having an absolute blast running this section and was so happy being out there.<br />
<br />
During the last few km of single track I was able to relax a little and really enjoy the trails. I was running along thinking "this is it, this is what it's all about". I was so happy running along through the bush and trails and thinking about what else is to come in 2013.<br />
<br />
The last few hundred metres involved a very steep descent down to the valley floor which was a bit hectic as I was sliding down greasy rocks looking forward to hitting the finish line. I crossed the line in 3:50:55 for first place. I was super happy with how the race went and was glad to have put in a solid performance. The podium was rounded out with solid times from James in 4:06:xx and Tom in 4:16:xx. I couldn't believe that I had gone sub 4hrs on that course. Pre-race James and I had discussed a time of around 4:15-4:20 which we thought was realistic. This race felt like a bit of redemption from what happened in New Zealand and I am really happy to have had a good run.<br />
<br />
A special thanks to Bernadette and Rolf for putting on such an awesome race that I know everyone loved! I can't wait to see what's in store for 2014!!<br />
<br />
I'm now starting to get really excited about our trip to the USA and Alaska where I am hoping to run some amazing trails and see some amazing sights. Especially looking forward to climbing up some mountains in Alaska and also running in the headlands in San Francisco.<br />
<br />
I'd like to thank my sponsors Hoka One One and RaceReady for their support and for helping me achieve what I am hoping for in 2013.<br />
<br />
For those interested in the gear I used:<br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://shop.backcountryrunner.co.nz/index.php?route=product/product&path=62_87&product_id=138" target="_blank">BCR branded Headsweats Hat</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ryderseyewear.com.au/" target="_blank">Ryders Eyewear Sunglasses</a></li>
<li><a href="http://raceready.com.au/shop/unisex-coolt-short-sleeve-tech-shirts-p-1.html?cPath=1_2" target="_blank">RaceReady Tech Shirt and Shorts</a></li>
<li><a href="http://estore.compressport.com.au/epages/263017.sf/en_AU/?ObjectPath=/Shops/263017/Products/MC001/SubProducts/MC001-0001" target="_blank">Compressport Calf Guards</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.hokaoneone.com.au/stinson-detail-men.html" target="_blank">Hoka One One Stinson Evo Trail Shoes</a></li>
<li><a href="http://injinjiperformanceproducts.com.au/" target="_blank">Injinji Performance Toe Socks</a></li>
<li><a href="https://guenergy.com/" target="_blank">GU gels</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.hammernutrition.com.au/shop/nutrition/endurolytes/" target="_blank">Hammer Nutrition Endurolytes</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
Here's a few shots from the race...</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfY7GxOeEBDd8C-46gjK-gRKYEH2hXIoB5wuy0o6UDJCEUDT8DGmakgL9K9eN8YJjY0Cl9bBoXUbPwv_kpcFuz5ROLR-ByCsPl13HPjF0v4zzOcLTK7AeW-Bw2P0E-cMDQ7rgfJ6MYUpcO/s1600/IMG_1438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfY7GxOeEBDd8C-46gjK-gRKYEH2hXIoB5wuy0o6UDJCEUDT8DGmakgL9K9eN8YJjY0Cl9bBoXUbPwv_kpcFuz5ROLR-ByCsPl13HPjF0v4zzOcLTK7AeW-Bw2P0E-cMDQ7rgfJ6MYUpcO/s640/IMG_1438.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing the finish line in 3:50:55</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGBnLGBunh37EdKFljn8Sd_DnBcgfqHH5DYG3NQmH_P866u5-GU4tRTPOpktfSc8dwh5iuW3cAnvyUjy3prfbPj0cdGUqhG5Qs4QcIdSt_v4wChFhaIVVP5_IASBgwwQXQCMzVLBdOmTh1/s1600/2013-04-21+Truth+18km+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGBnLGBunh37EdKFljn8Sd_DnBcgfqHH5DYG3NQmH_P866u5-GU4tRTPOpktfSc8dwh5iuW3cAnvyUjy3prfbPj0cdGUqhG5Qs4QcIdSt_v4wChFhaIVVP5_IASBgwwQXQCMzVLBdOmTh1/s640/2013-04-21+Truth+18km+(5).JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me followed closely by James just before the sweet single track</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgT-L_uIxe_OVHwpV-JvaJc8CXn062DYc7oiYaea33C4dsEqSeN2j9ChDZAO4yH6ZhrS8SzjSjTt1vTVTcEPnVdquNQcyOryuvOL3y9un5vP2hZog6HJdlPA5G7do4wI_0OfLq_yhlVXW/s1600/399679_10152704486640618_1354115649_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgT-L_uIxe_OVHwpV-JvaJc8CXn062DYc7oiYaea33C4dsEqSeN2j9ChDZAO4yH6ZhrS8SzjSjTt1vTVTcEPnVdquNQcyOryuvOL3y9un5vP2hZog6HJdlPA5G7do4wI_0OfLq_yhlVXW/s640/399679_10152704486640618_1354115649_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhOjIx8DIsKHJZq1ddjuE0A6FZxyBd6B5SPKc-FiIEiPWavPoXHb0YP9PNNK7b7iFF6Q_wxE5BkjSL-hWhFhWVhaUFdh2CQcRLvvrODmQ7Cz5tZlrxMJQXR1Ml9erAe41aBH9kaeFQDDmH/s1600/DSC00566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhOjIx8DIsKHJZq1ddjuE0A6FZxyBd6B5SPKc-FiIEiPWavPoXHb0YP9PNNK7b7iFF6Q_wxE5BkjSL-hWhFhWVhaUFdh2CQcRLvvrODmQ7Cz5tZlrxMJQXR1Ml9erAe41aBH9kaeFQDDmH/s640/DSC00566.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everyone taking off at the start</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVtkCTvRHpMzdlXO6G-mCO_qQ6OpE_Msk2bQcZlBZBAkqLnVT7rUuaq9kYJ08quFIwLQDWHlCJeDcbgoR1qO-qnY5trSxBUSGH1o8rKHFEsMUtNw33wpq8YmcJJAMGrYIsJ9hDHFpnUlX/s1600/DSC00577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVtkCTvRHpMzdlXO6G-mCO_qQ6OpE_Msk2bQcZlBZBAkqLnVT7rUuaq9kYJ08quFIwLQDWHlCJeDcbgoR1qO-qnY5trSxBUSGH1o8rKHFEsMUtNw33wpq8YmcJJAMGrYIsJ9hDHFpnUlX/s640/DSC00577.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and James leaving the 16km Aid Station</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVAbFUyRX9ICC6mhMR5RMHsFJ7c12bC4Nsn5bWg3xAmzF1jGw1AFdvCLaHs7EMZ_yjPhLMNZXiuCUBtq1zUnzzrbuiUlkN6wrbuSni4OTJiqCGxtse8TKncidVweWgsn8PzfCOoOFcfko8/s1600/DSC00592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVAbFUyRX9ICC6mhMR5RMHsFJ7c12bC4Nsn5bWg3xAmzF1jGw1AFdvCLaHs7EMZ_yjPhLMNZXiuCUBtq1zUnzzrbuiUlkN6wrbuSni4OTJiqCGxtse8TKncidVweWgsn8PzfCOoOFcfko8/s640/DSC00592.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the 16km Aid Station for the second time</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOQBgRzZOrIbBU-BbshkJ_t8lt56YOUyFW7bUABx9LMfXMx9njpDfv-DaCam3PAbkZUAuw1Gy2jBu5nPCXiFIIfy-MkbM1lZo6M2d9x4M-Kr22wOw0wYRFnAdvu7qjbuoZuQQZjTJKTOZ/s1600/934985_502905209775212_1391664603_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOQBgRzZOrIbBU-BbshkJ_t8lt56YOUyFW7bUABx9LMfXMx9njpDfv-DaCam3PAbkZUAuw1Gy2jBu5nPCXiFIIfy-MkbM1lZo6M2d9x4M-Kr22wOw0wYRFnAdvu7qjbuoZuQQZjTJKTOZ/s640/934985_502905209775212_1391664603_n.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96U5pYgEELXKRw58AOKy6Fsx3AIgaoxU1uvR-LokiwglIZtnXZcAZHxeuUDLjcMs2_LwZZrEsBjFQJilgX-gDjHU5sJZE4GAVspXp-28AhLx6UDFXF4QG9oaO5c58P0J7Zq_WFI-624wv/s1600/931253_502905089775224_1602693599_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96U5pYgEELXKRw58AOKy6Fsx3AIgaoxU1uvR-LokiwglIZtnXZcAZHxeuUDLjcMs2_LwZZrEsBjFQJilgX-gDjHU5sJZE4GAVspXp-28AhLx6UDFXF4QG9oaO5c58P0J7Zq_WFI-624wv/s1600/931253_502905089775224_1602693599_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The awesome aid station volunteers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqCjAohsZmXra-0zbghQ-GyvF2tIuzYJ632yazazhrpxNXVN9QMOOGDcnxn-yIYVOan1a7TGf_A-MBWe4pYgUx4AZeHL5c6i5gEPi6RGR6sXgJEUt2fkf-XiVesUtbFK38FVGTc9tSHAr/s1600/DSC00628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqCjAohsZmXra-0zbghQ-GyvF2tIuzYJ632yazazhrpxNXVN9QMOOGDcnxn-yIYVOan1a7TGf_A-MBWe4pYgUx4AZeHL5c6i5gEPi6RGR6sXgJEUt2fkf-XiVesUtbFK38FVGTc9tSHAr/s640/DSC00628.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying some fast flat trail</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoqe9fZoouc9J1ZbUkv4iVWR-K0EdCSW8lwjbzuvZ2mjdC1FG1AOJJFuEswiKICqWgfFKGiykLxlCYQSvnQO22f7-B3deqHxSobeKHY2ct604QRjpC4K9ulSIUp4Tol3sE7kgWr9wg-Q7G/s1600/P1050133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoqe9fZoouc9J1ZbUkv4iVWR-K0EdCSW8lwjbzuvZ2mjdC1FG1AOJJFuEswiKICqWgfFKGiykLxlCYQSvnQO22f7-B3deqHxSobeKHY2ct604QRjpC4K9ulSIUp4Tol3sE7kgWr9wg-Q7G/s640/P1050133.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">50km Start</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVRAS66iWnc3my4Bra1II6wgQEOV3fxrzrp2sLtfhiaRDFP7zWx4kDe8bXT6_Vt9JLpmOSajXbGeJhKyDUay_wDmpwN4NxISPMNMGPMKvfbAZH_KglApOIgW1g1NNjxvepDmSSINxumce/s1600/ultra+podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVRAS66iWnc3my4Bra1II6wgQEOV3fxrzrp2sLtfhiaRDFP7zWx4kDe8bXT6_Vt9JLpmOSajXbGeJhKyDUay_wDmpwN4NxISPMNMGPMKvfbAZH_KglApOIgW1g1NNjxvepDmSSINxumce/s640/ultra+podium.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Podium Women and Men in the 50km. L-R: Helen Roberts, Beck Hefferon, Jamie McLoughlan, RD Bernadette Benson, Me, James Roberts, Tom Bakowski.</td></tr>
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