Dalby Dash 10k, great fun!  Sunday morning I woke not feeling to great to be honest, tired and aching.  Todays run was a late start which actually was a good thing today but normally I like the early starts so I can be back in good time.  It was to be an 11.02 start, the 2 been the 2 minute silence we observed before the dash began.  I made it to Dalby Forest in good time after thinking I'd be late as normal, but I ended up being ushered through to the second carpark which was a few mins walk away from the Visitor centre and registration. It was cold, I was planning on running in shorts with compression top and shirt with windproof jacket on.  I was sat in the car with tracksuit bottoms, hoody and woolly hat on, with fear running through my body from opening the door to get to my trainers ha ha!  Once I'd plucked up the courage that was it we were off, shoes on, hoody and bottoms off and hat thrown in to the back of the car.  I set off for the visitor centre, I actually even started to run as thought it would help me stay warm ( I have never done that before lol)!  Apon arrival I checked in and got my number and began to prepare myself for the forth coming run.  I was looking round to see if I recognised anyone as thought there were going to be a few that I knew.  After standing in the reception area just trying to keep warm before that shock of going outside again, I started bumping in to people I knew so it soon became a friendly fun environment with lots of smiley faces all doing the same thing, hiding and huddling together inside knowing how chilly it was on the outside ha ha!

Once we'd braved going out the door and gathering near the start line we had the race brief followed by the Race Directors little Poem which was great fun.  We observed a two minute silence for Rememberance Day then he shouted 3,2,1 go really quickly and we were off! It was a steady start down the road and as per usually it was all the giddy chatter and banter before the grind started.  Over the bridge then a left turn in to Dalby village, which was literally a few houses, then onwards up the hill!  Now with me not doing this run before and being aware of this hill I was slightly cautious to start with as didn't really know the severity or distance of the incline so I just kind of went with the flow with the intention of trying to run all of it.  Maybe it was better not knowing how far the incline would last as my determination to keep running was high.  My breathing became heavy to the point of panting but my legs stayed strong, so each time the voice in my head kept saying I needed to stop and walk I had to question why!  I was managing my heavy breathing, it hadn't got the point where I couldn't get enough air in and my legs seemed ok with the current output so I had to just say shut up to myself and push on.  If there's no obvious reason to walk other than the voice in my head then I have to push on.  It was tough towards the top since it had been approximately 2 miles of climbing but I could now see the brough of the hill, my legs were becoming heavy but my breathing was the same so I wasn't going to stop now, no chance!  Over the brough and from the race description and a few peoples comments it was all downhill now.  In the past I have heard things like this and trusted them and eventually been let down which breaks in to your spirit but this time I just decided it is what it is and get on with it and push push push its only 10k!!!

This was turning in to a great fun event.  I actually felt like I was a proper runner, I was striding out and running at a bit of pace for once!  Oh yeah that's because it was downhill all the way ha ha!  It did feel good though and helped to push on and want to do better because there was no excuses for slowing down even towards the end when it flattened out I still had the desire to push on as hard as I could.  I have very rarely done this in my running as always just been happy to go at 'my pace' but it is now something I'm trying to improve on so I will enter more short events just to get that again now I have gained some confidence from it.

After I'd passed through the finish I made my way back to the Visitor Centre to collect my momento which in this case was a great pair of running gloves with 'Dalby Dash 10k 2017' printed on them which was cool. My mind was then preoccupied with having to get back to the club as I was at work at 2pm so needed to get a crack on.  Guess what happened then, go on guess ha ha!! Yep I ran back to the car lol!

Dalby Dash 10k 2017 done, great event good fun!

So with three days to go till Dalby Dash 10k I have just had a light session in the gym doing a few dumb bell weights and kettlebell swings with sit-ups and some Romanian twists.  My training for the Hardmoors 160 is in its infancy but its starting to shape up nicely.  I have a new addition to my team adding a different dimension to my training.  This is Jake, and he will be doing a lot of crossfit endurance training with me including a lot of squats, dead lifts and general power work.  This is in the form of one session a week with him then doing 2 more sessions on my own.  The plan is to work harder in the gym on strength building and working on my weakness and improving my form.  I will be including running in this programme but not high mileage, my high mileage runs will be spread out over the next 6 months with a gradual increase but not any distance that is going to cause long term injury or lack of recovery time.

So I met up with Jake yesterday to do some assessments so he could decide on what the best course of action was going to be.  He had me doing some squats looking at my form and posture, some single leg squats and then some shoulder flexibility and mobility exercises.  We then moved on to doing some squats with weight doing 3 reps at a time increasing the weight to try and find what I was comfortably capable of.  We got up to 95 kg which was good (I think) and this will give us a great starting base platform.  Once Jake had given me the instructions and technique practices, I got stuck in.  The heavier the weight the greater, or weirder the facial expression and more obscure the noises coming from me ha ha!

Next up I have a squash match tonight then hoping for a short run tomorrow at some point then rest before Sunday.  Then I have a four weeks of training before Roseberry Topping when the real work begins!

A cheeky 10 miler in the Peak District!

So at the crack of dawn on Sunday 22nd October Rob and myself met up at 6.30am to head off to Calver in the Peak district to run a 10 mile trail race.  Now when I say race, that's because Rob's doing it and he will be up there with the other racing snakes, whilst the likes of me are there to make the rest look good!!!  Anyway the plan was to get there about 8ish leaving us with enough time to register and get to the actual start line. We made good time to Calver arriving just after 8 and immediately got ushered into the village hall carpark and given a spot, this was amazing, as I thought we'd be 10 minutes driving round playing eye spy to get a parking spot but it turns out no one wanted to park at  the VH so easy peasy! With the normal pre-race efforts going on with kit and trying to get some fuel into the system while hydrating the whole time we managed to say hello to fellow runners and get ourselves organised.  It was pretty blowy, with rain looming but holding off at this point but I wasn't optimistic about the rest of the morning it looked like it could really come in.  Off we went and registered, sorting names and numbers and receiving our dibbers, safety pins and maps.  We had to get a move on as our time slot was 8.30 and we were rapidly running out of time.  Not sure where we were going we followed others that looked like they were also on the way to the start which I knew was up a steep hill at some point.  After a while and a funny feeling I was getting that we weren't going to the start, I asked the chap in front if he was heading the same way, he wasn't!!! He did send us the right way thought and his brought us to the steep hill and start line.  After a few brief words and dibbing in, we were off!! The beginning basically was uphill for a long a time, in fact it felt like forever aaarrrggghhhh!!!!  I was blowing like Ivor the Engine after only a few minutes, but I was determined to push on and make a decent attempt at it since it was literally the beginning.  Whilst I was huffing and puffing up the first ascent Rob was off like Usain Bolt and took another guy with him on the journey, I just said 'see you at the end mate!' ha ha!

Well the marshall at the start didn't let us down, he'd actually been brutally honest.  From the off it was uphill, which I had a go at for a bit but then needed to power walk a bit before another short run.  This continued for about 3.5 miles, at the middle point of the race there was a noticeable difference almost immediately.  Suddenly the wind was behind us and there was considerably more downhill sections that made it fun and a much quicker run.  We ended up down by the river which was quite nice once we'd descended a huge grass bank that seemed to just go on forever.  Now it was as good as flat and a nice trot through the woods and along the river bank.   Then suddenly I could see flags that had finish printed on them, this was a bit odd at the time as we were no where near the village hall we registered at.  Surprisingly though it was, and I wasn't really sure what was going ha ha!  I was wondering around like a lost sheep, until I followed some other lost sheep and we headed along the roadside following some signs that took us back to registration.  I was expecting Rob to either be huddled in the corner freezing since he'd probably been there for at least 30-40 minutes or to have packed up and gone because he couldn't be bothered to wait for me lol!  He was there eating and drinking and looking like he'd barely done anything where as I looked like I'd done a marathon in a typhoon!

Off we went, home bound!  Job done, it was great to just get out and do a run especially nice to do a different route and experience something new.

Whats next?

Roseberry Topping half marathon :)

How important is self belief when trying to accomplish or succeed in a challenge you at actually is beyond your capabilities?  Self belief is huge, and don't get this confused with arrogance, self belief is about you trusting your training so making sure your body is prepared for the task in hand, race planning and scheduling so again the preparation and attention to detail, and trusting in some fundamental grit, heart and luck!  Self belief is a powerful tool that not only lets us sign up to these crazy challenges but its also what helps drive us to complete them and achieve our dreams. How can you improve or work on your self belief without being misguided and lying to yourself?  I believe that as individuals we can work at our self-belief by positive reinforcement, achievement, good preparation and planning and good PMA!  This is crucial in my opinion to succeeding in Ultra marathons, if you don't believe in yourself and believe you can do it then unfortunately others won't and when your on your own on route in the middle of the night this could be the difference between success and dnf.  So make sure before you start that there is going to be only one outcome, and that is that you are going to finish!  In another book that I once read I can't remember which sorry, but it basically said to help with this you have to dream of the finish constantly, thinking about what it will be like and how it will feel, then when times are hard you can use that to help push you through.

I was caught in a position of dare I say 'misplaced confidence' but the last race I did which was the Hardmoors 60 gave me the appropriate kick in the ass!  I am now fully grounded again and understand that the Hardmoors 160 next May is going to be the toughest thing I have ever done and I need to treat it with respect.  I need to plan appropriately leaving nothing to chance and to start my training in good time so I can build up the mileage appropriately.  I'm loving the new challenge and excited about training properly for it.  Current training is base level fitness, so plenty of gym work and short runs and weight loss as this now going to have a massive impact on the outcome of some of these races I want to do.

To succeed in my challenge there is going to have to lots of hardwork, practical training appropriate to task, discipline, and sacrifice.  These are the ingredients if mixed correctly and balanced right that will determine whether I am successful in the Hardmoors 160.  I'm not going home without my medal, I will succeed and will be using this as my stepping stone to bigger and greater things!

Believe to achieve!

Great session in the gym backing up the work I did yesterday.  That included squats, lunges and weights for upper body incorporating press-ups and sit-up twists with a 10kg bag.  I used the same bag over my shoulders whilst doing jumping lunges which was tricky for balance but felt really good.  Where as today I did steady warm up on the bike then hit the treadmill.  I wanted to do a hill workout so I did 1k steady run warm up then increased the incline by 2.5 each minute up to and including 10 before dropping it back to zero and resting for a minute before starting again.  I repeated this for 3 times then ran steady to complete 5k.   My intention is to keep repeating this exercise but increasing the incline gradually, increasing the pace gradually and shortening the recovery between hills.  This combined with actually getting out there and running some real hills will be just what I need.  Then the idea is to get quicker at 5k, 10k, half-marathon and 20 mile distance.

I know I have a long job ahead of me but that's half the battle hey, keeping focused and showing signs of progress, even if slow progress!  My next main battle that I always seem to put off or ignore is the fact I need to lose weight.  This unfortunately is my toughest battle.  I'm not interested in being thin but to drop a stone would help me enjoy what I do more and I now see that as something important to me.  So let the battle of the belly commence, hope I don't get too grumpy!!!

Inspired! Inspired! Inspired!

Wow what a race that was 'The Lon Las Cwymru' Ultra was epic, loved following it and now inspired to push on with my on journey.  Since the MdS in April I've kind of lost motivation to train, I'm not sure why but to excited at watching some others race down Wales for 253 miles is mental.  All I want to do is sign up and have a go, even though I know its way out of my league.  I am getting stuck into my training now, mainly gym work mixed with short runs.  My focus will be on writing a programme over the next few days to cover the next 6 months which will take me to the Hardmoors 160 eeek!  I'm confident I have what it takes mentally, now its about getting the body prepared.  This will require a steady build with increased mileage and a fitness regime to match.  I also intend to lose some weight as I feel this is one of the areas that is holding me back.  Its not vanity as I'm not to bothered but when its something that I can change to help me improve on what I have already achieved and will help me going forwards I want to do something about it.  its mind set more than anything and desire to achieve more.

This was an epic journey and one I'd love to have a crack at one day.  Train hard, believe, and succeed!!!

I am currently obsessed with watching the posts and trackers for 'The Lon Las Ultra' which is 253 miles from Holyhead to Cardiff in Wales.  This could end up on my bucket list but I have a serious amount of work to do if so.  I just get excited about the adventure and the sheer lunacy of it, its brilliant!  I have been trying to decide what are the things a like about long distance Ultra running, and apart from the things I've mentioned before like 'head clearing time', 'solitude', 'challenge', 'being outdoors' I think I also like because not many other people do it.  If you see some peoples responses when you tell them your looking at entering a hundred odd mile race they look at you like they've just been electrocuted and hen when you say its across the Sahara Desert or The Yukon they just look baffled lol!

I am now excited to get back out there and try some more long runs, I love having to consider the kit I need, organise maps and plan training runs appropriate to the challenge.  I am now in the early stages of planning the Hardmoors 160 in May.  This gives me plenty of time to prepare and to train the best I have ever done, I really want to put considerable effort in to this event and test myself as I intend to finish this race.  I get excited at the prospect of attempting something that is crazy but very doable if done right.

Where do I begin?  Well I have been doing quite a lot of gym work at the mo like I said previously trying to build base level fitness.  Next step is to get back to more specific functional training, trying to become fitter and leaner than I have ever been before.  It is time to stop saying I need to be fitter, lighter, a better run, more prepared and to actually take this a little further and put some work and effort into it.

Time to stop doubting, and start believing!

Where do I go from here??????????

A DNF in the Hardmoors 60, is this a negative to dwell on and become down beat about and think I'm not actually meant for all this!

OR

A DNF in the Hardmoors 60, is an opportunity!  It might not necessarily be a positive thing in itself but it can be used positively to go on and achieve future goals!

This is great psychology, I love it!  What happens to a person can either be a negative experience or a positive opportunity.  This means, like with the HM 60,  a negative mind set would allow this to make them feel beaten, unworthy, fragile, not up to future challenges, not capable, and a failure.  A positive response to this, would be to take the DNF and make it a base to start from.  Something to learn from, build on, and be successful from!

The things I take in to consideration are, I didn't train that well so therefore I managed 57 miles on barely any training with the longest run being 16.5 miles.  I underestimated the event, and I think a little complacency due to previous successes took place.

What have I learnt?

It doesn't matter what the event, you need to train appropriately!  Give the event the respect it deserves, treat it as your toughest longest event to date.  Do a full kit check, and plan each aspect of it so can look back in the future and compare.

My current training is all base level work.. This involves general fitness with nothing specific.  I am concentrating on steady warm up on bike with maybe pushing it with a 20-30 min bike workout.  I will then do some dumb bells for arms, this will be followed by squats, lunges and jumping lunges.  I like doing old school exercises such as press-ups, sit ups and burpees.  After 2 weeks I'm really starting to feel the benefits, fitter, quicker and leaner.  Getting ready for some running I love it feel great.  I'm getting excited about the long distance stuff but want to concentrate on gym, short runs and speed!


Hardmoors 160 - 7.5 months to go!

Hardmoors 60 (to be or not to be?)

So my first attempt at the Hardmoors 60!  It wasn't the ending I had hoped for but all is not lost.  In losses or failures we find truths and answers.  I knew going into this event I hadn't trained enough, I'm no leading race challenging whippet, but I can usually slog it out and get myself over the line in time.  On this occasion it wasn't to be, I had trained enough and my body wasn't prepared for the extreme levels I put it through.  Physically I think I was strong enough I would just have liked to have had more running in my legs and more training where your body has to go through the mill a bit.  The positives are all there though, in my journey to the 160 next May have now started with a 57 mile training with no side effects or injuries.  I have remembered what it is going to take to achieve this monumental feat.  Am I defeated by my 'DNF' no, deflated a little but not defeated, if anything I'm inspired, challenged and have the desire to improve.  I'm happy with not necessarily being the best at this sport, I like having something where I can just do what I can and that's enough.  I am always trying to get better at it, and after a long summer off post MdS I am relatively happy with how I did.  Obviously I hate not completing and I found it very difficult to accept at the time as my inner self just wanted to carry on to prove I could do it, but where's the benefit from that, sometimes you have to let go.  The difference between a 64 mile training run and a 57 mile training is nothing really as they are  both ridiculous distances and therefore its a win win situation!

So how do I move forward from here?  Easily!  I need to have some regular runs, some scheduled trail runs or/and ultra's and build my endurance up towards the date of the 160.  I'm determined to complete it so the preparation is important to my success.  I still don't want it to take over my life as I have other priorites now but if I can get the right training in and enough of it with some reccies then the game is on.  I need a bit of new kit but not much, might also look into a handheld gpx device which will minimise any navigational errors.  If anything my DNF on Saturday has done exactly what was intended, its given me a bit of a kick up the bum and reminded me to respect the distance and course.  Its brutal, and punishing, and will take every last bit out of you to get round it.  I can not afford to underestimate the size of this challenge, everything I have done up till now only counts in experience and knowledge, it does not allow you any freebies.  Its accepting the hardwork that lies ahead and then putting it in.

A lot of time has past but I've been super busy with work and holidays.  The clock is ticking for Hardmoors 60 on the 16th Sept so just under two weeks to go eeeek!  Hows my training going? Badly!  I have done some but no where near enough but the idea is that this race gives me a kick in the backside and reminds me that these races are ridiculously hard.  This the beginning really of the HM160 training plan so its all starting to get very real.  Current small targets are, keep up base level fitness, hill training, lose half stone by Christmas followed by another half stone after Christmas, stop or reduce drinking (it does help!) and start increasing long run distance.  So quite a few chunks to go at there but all necessary to achieving my new goal. I'd like to do the Spine Challenger in Jan again but not sure if the budget will allow for it.

So its time to knuckle down to this challenge, I wish I had a couple of extra weeks for the 60 but hey ho that's life.  I feel I have been training so not completely off it but I haven't done enough strength work or distance.  So whats the plan over the next week and a half?  I want to get out for a few runs, short distance and a couple of 10 milers with hills, I want to do a bit of gym work this week but nothing killer like and do some stretching.

I need to find a 30-40 miler for October as part of my training so I will begin looking now.  This is now all about mind set and discipline.  Its about getting out there and training when I don't want to as I know those runs are sometimes the most beneficial.  Its about confidence and belief, its not that I'm doubting myself anymore its just the reality of knowing what's coming.  So believing in what I know I can do but putting the hard work in to make it less difficult than I know it will be.  Its the pain game!

Sunday I have Hardmoors Rosedale half marathon to drag myself round.  I am quite pleased with how my gentle build up in training has been going, with focus been on base level fitness and short runs just to keep away from any re-occurring injuries or niggles.  I managed to keep up some momentum last week getting out form my normal 3.5 miler as my consistent go to run, this means basically if I have a bit of space in my day and I know I need to get out for a run then this is the one I do.  This with a couple of visits to the gym gave me some good preparation for nice 2.5-3 miler with Sarah on Thursday up in the Howardian hills.  She says 'nice little 2.5-3 miles' and something along the lines of 'there's only one really slope' ha ha oh yeah really!  So off we went nice steady pace, although I was told I was going a bit quick, but the first half mile was up hill and I was starting to feel it already so was now starting worry if I was going to last this run out.  Up some more hills and through some woods it was great, and great to do a different route too.  I was loving this run apart from nearly dying, it was great!  Then we approached a corner followed by a road that looked almost vertical, I was just thinking oh my lord I am actually going to die up this.  Sarah on the other hand hadn't changed pace, hadn't moaned, not even a mention of this brute of an incline in front of us, all I could do was get on with it!  So just passed half way up my lungs pumping away like a pair of bellows, my heart beating so hard I was choking on it and sweat leaking out of me like a wet sponge being squeezed lol!  I was nearly at the top before I needed to increase my pace otherwise I wasn't going to get there, Sarah was going at same pace with zero expression on her face except pure determination.  I reached the top, almost convulsing and hands on my knee's sucking up as much air as the planet would allow.  Then Sarah, after what felt like a two second break, said come on lets go.  Are you having a laugh lol!  Nice run back with a sprint finish to kill me off.  So what she thought was 2.5 miles actually turned out to be 4 miles ha ha!  Great fun, and a well earned beer I can tell you.

So all this work at the moment is to prepare me for the Hardmoors 60 in September and eventually the Hardmoors 160 next may which is going to be a massive challenge so I need to stay fit and strong and gradually build up the momentum.  With all this in mind and Rosedale this Sunday, I headed back out on the Wolds with Pete yesterday for a very steady 10.5 miles.  It took 2hrs 15mins which actually I was quite pleased with, I felt good especially with all the inclines and sections that sometimes I really struggle on that wasn't the case yesterday.  My legs feel it a bit today but that's good as I know I have done relevant training now over the last few weeks and that stamina is building nicely.  More strength and flexibility work needed now though, it never ends!

So what have I learnt over the last couple of weeks, push your limits every training session or every run because this will help you achieve your goal.  It will be hard as it won't be comfortable as your stretching your comfort zone to achieve these great things. 

Small targets, big goals!!!

So after my horrendous run last Tuesday that felt ridiculously tough I managed to head out again the day after!  I was determined that I could do better and it wasn't going to be as horrible an experience as the previous day.  This then turned into another run the day after putting me in a very positive mindset for the upcoming trail half-marathon at Rosedale on the Yorkshire Moors.  I have definitely turned a corner now my drive is back, my life in general is on the up due to a certain person so all is good.  So the next question is, how to maintain desire and motivation?

A great little slogan I like to use, not just in my training, but on the tennis court too and generally in life it can be applied is' small targets, big goals!'   This allows you to set lots of mini targets, bench marks that all lead towards you achieving your main goal.  So for me in this journey I have started, my goal is to find out what the greatest distance I can cover in one go is so all my mini targets are small events like half marathons building up the distance therefore developing the training in a progressive manner and staged so as to not be overwhelmed by the huge distance of the end goal. So my current end goal is the Hardmoors 160 so my progressions are Rosedale Half, Hardmoors 60, White Rose 100, possibly New Years Day 30, possibly Northumberland 35, Hardmoors 55 then I'm there.  What this allows me to do is set smaller training periods to build different things such as to start with its regain and build base level fitness, then it will be to do some speed work, then more core training and flexibility, strength work all of these at the same time as increasing mileage in training.  So bite size manageable chunks!  Small targets-Big goals!!!

I like this it says a lot to me, as it should you.  You have to keep believing in yourself, it is the key!  Remember 'Believe to achieve'!!  No great words said or motivating phrase, you just have to believe in yourself, don't question it, don't doubt it, just put everything you have into it and only believe in the desired outcome.  Deep thoughts there but how true!   Happy Thursday friends :)

How to start again!

Isn't it amazing that sometimes your desire to train or train hard is determined by mood.  How you're feeling either on the day or at that time.  Training can be done because of your current mood either because your flying high or because your down in dumps. Currently for me, I'm up there in the clouds flying pretty high at the moment so my desire to train is back and strong.

So I feel inspired again, I am excited about my next major challenge which is a bit away yet but I need to have the target to build up to.  Like I said in one of the last few posts I'm looking to do a few shorter runs to build up some stamina and strength again then onto the Hardmoors 60 in September.  What is your major challenge I hear you ask??????  Well after not much thought as it was easy really I'm going to have a crack at the Hardmoors 160 next May.  Wahoo yes 160 miles in one go, I can't believe that this is how far I have come in my Journey.  To do a 100 mile race in November as a training run lol for the 160.  Who does that!!! Ha Ha love it!

I have a good 10 months of training which is great, my main focus will be to stay injury free and build base level fitness first with short runs.  I will incorporate strength training, flexibility training and pool work.  I'm actually excited about all this just by writing it down lol!  I scare myself sometimes ha ha!

So that's the plan.  What have I been doing at the moment, well pretty little in honesty but my pretty little is very different to others, I'm no machine, I know where I am in the grand scale of things I'm no elite athlete I am just an ordinary bloke trying to stay fit and healthy.  I think my body just needed a rest so I have done a few light sessions in the gym and a few short runs as in 3.5 miles just to tick over.  As I am a tennis coach I am on my feet and staying fit every day plus I have been playing tennis quite a bit over the last 2 months so its not all been sitting on my bum doing nothing when I say I've done very little.  I managed to get out for a run yesterday which is my first in about 2 or 3 weeks and about my 3rd or 4th in a couple of months, which is pretty minimal which tells me I needed a rest.  My run yesterday was enlightening, yes I mean that, this so because even though I'd built up to running 50 miles then 70 then the 110 and on to the MdS, my run yesterday was rubbish.  Great, but rubbish!!!  I felt awful, slow like a slug, like I was running through treacle with a fridge on my back.  I was slow, yes yes slower than normal then shall I say. Normally I guess this is what puts some people off because they think that's how it will always be, but I now know better.  I know that this is the test, this is now your challenge, the battle has begun, its 'the will' battle.  Through experience I know that each time from now it will be easier as long as I keep going at it and be consistent.  I know that this is the test, that defines your mental strength, 'give in now and achieve nothing' or 'fight back, train, and go on to achieve your dreams'.  Quite heavy for an early morning blog post but like I say I'm inspired.  So do I give up because it was so rubbish and horrible yesterday making me feel like I haven't done any of the things I have OR do I fight back and train, get strong, and re-build!  Yes you guessed right, I've just found my first challenge on the journey to Hardmoors 160.  How to start again!!!!!

It hasn't been quite how I intended, my training has been minimal, not through lack of motivation but through lack of confidence in my body.  I have just taken some time out to allow the little niggles and injuries to clear up which I think I am now about there.  I am definitely mentally ready to get back out there now, I miss the trails and the challenges.  I need to sign up to something that I can get my teeth into as the challenge of distance, great as it is, requires a lot of time and dedication.  So I am looking for some shorter distances to get myself back to it.  I want to work on some things firstly need to get my weight down again and secondly my speed over the shorter distances.  I am also wanting to improve my strength in my legs and endurance capabilities.  Best get back in the gym once this pesky cold has gone!

So its time to put the effort in and start getting some results!

So I'm back, its been a while since I have wrote anything here as wanted a little break from it all.  I have done very little training due to a niggle in my knee.  I'm at a point now though where I'm busting to get back to it but my body seems to have been through the mill a little.  I'm ready to get back out there but don't want to risk my knee but I think a few little light runs maybe in order.  Its tough after such a milestone and awesome event to feel any desire to start again but I must I love it.

Its time to make it happen!  Discipline and self-motivation, 'play hard or go home!'

The job was done but not over!  We still had the Charity day to complete which involved us being given a new t-shirt the night before to wear which was a lovely cotton yellow which inspired a few moans and groans but was at least nice to put on a clean shirt.  The bag seemed to be full still which was a little alarming but the weight was considerably different.  I was now able to include my sleeping bag on the inside along with any other bits I had hanging off the sides.  I gave the roll matt away to the berbers as they cleared up camp for the last time in the morning. All that was left was a little bit of food and the remaining kit I wished to keep.

Paul and Tim enjoying the morning sun in preparation for this final leg of our adventure.  It was all smiles and laughter this morning as we knew we had done and finished it was just a matter of completing the 7.7km back to the coaches.

It was a completely different atmosphere this time as nobody was really racing off to try and finish as quick as possible.  It was a more social plod with your tent mates and friends chatting and laughing about the weeks adventure and hotel that we'd soon be in having showers and beers and food!

Legs were weary, shoulders sore, skin sun burnt, kit falling to bits and general desire to actually just be finished.  Apart from that we were all just happy to be at the end, just a few dunes to cross but this was easier knowing that it was only to be a few km.  We had discussed a plan for the finish, this plan involved a tip off that Paul had received from a previous competitor. Don't get on the coach keep walking and there'll be a taxi rank.  Commandeer a taxi between the four or five of us and head back to the hotel this way.  This was genius, even though I was slightly apprehensive as could end up any where and being robbed, but I had to put these thoughts out of my head.  Eventually we set off ahead of the coaches.  Straight out on the route and stop at the first petrol station for snacks and drinks.  Boom this was the first advantage of our decision, the second was to be able to lounge out in the back of the car with space and windows that open!  This taxi ride turned out to be whole new adventure just in itself, but we ended up at the hotel in about 4.5 hours and soon got ourselves into the shower.  The idea was to get sorted and meet at the bar for beers, except I thought the boys said they'd knock on the door and we'd all go together ooops lots of wasted drinking time! Whilst this was happening John had a serious problem to contend with, he'd left his phone in the taxi!  This was a nightmare and so glad it wasn't me.  He just dropped his bags and ran back to try and catch the driver but in the end he needed the assistance of the receptionist and eventually, unbelievable, he got it back after tracking the driver down via another taxi and guessing where he would be!

We were sat slobbed out knocking back the beers and having a few laughs retelling the stories of the week and hearing new ones.  Then they all started coming in looking half dead and broken.  Their coach journey had got delayed and had taken them near on 9 hours.  Lynton's face was a picture as he hadn't come with us in the taxi as I couldn't find him to grab.  He came and just started shouting and moaning it was priceless!  We continued enjoying beer and food for the next day before it was time to get our flights and head home.  Apart from a slight delay for our flight it was great to be heading home.  Everyone was waiting for me at the airport and Olivia came running up to me like I'd just won the Olympics or something ha ha!  It kind of felt like that actually but I'd obviously achieved quite that high a level.

After we got back and I'd had a few days to let it all sink in I couldn't quite believe I'd actually done it, it was almost like a dream or should I say a nightmare lol!  One of the greatest experiences I've ever had and one of the greatest achievements I've ever managed.  Would I recommend it to others, definitely, it was amazing but the preparation is critical to their success and mental survival.  I loved it, its maybe not for everyone but it was for me!

Would I go back? Yes, but not just yet I have too many other adventures I want to do first.  One day though maybe!

Ok nearly there now, just marathon day to go and I can collect my medal!  What a nights sleep I woke feeling energetic and refreshed.  Its amazing what a good nights sleep can do for you.  After the normal, I say normal but there's nothing normal about it at all, morning routines of toilet, food, prepping the kit for the day and maybe having a little stretch we all headed once more to the oh so familiar start line.  There was a bit of buzz about today because the top 200 runners were setting off a few hours after the rest of us so they would at some point come flying past.  With 'Highway to hell' blasting out of the speakers we set off.

Today the plan was to just get it done as quick as possible, no hanging about, no taking my time and pacing it, just get it done asap!  The poles had served me well all week and today wasn't any exception.  I was pushing on at a reasonable pace using the poles to ease the work load on the legs.  I was able to do a slow jog on the flats and pushed hard in the dunes which were by now very hard work after the weeks effort so far.  The day seemed to drag on but I had an extra zip in my stride knowing that this was it, when we cross the finish line I will receive my medal and that's all that mattered and the quicker I could make that happen the better.  Like the previous 4 stages my strategy was to work as hard as possible in the morning before the full heat of the day set in and then finish as soon as I could.  I was aiming to finish before 5pm that was the goal therefore allowing 8 and half hours which sounds loads to do a mere 26 miles but I now new the terrain and this was certainly not going to be easy.

The day was tough and I was pleased to get to the last check point which felt different to all the rest.  Ah yes that's because it was the last one lol!  I was greeted with a cheer and a congratulations, followed by 'well done you've done it.  Just last 5km to the end.  Enjoy!'  So once I'd sorted my water bottles and had something to eat I was quickly on my way I wanted to get finished I could taste it!  We came to what I can only describe as a mine, a run down ruined mine.  It was a bit eerie I thought, the ground had changed colour slightly too which was a bit weird making my eyes strain slightly as they had to adjust to focus.  As I scrambled my way along this track through the disused mine I had many thoughts and emotions running through my head, I was nearly there, all the work and training was coming to an end.  I wasn't crying but my eyes had weld up slightly as I thought about all things that motivated me and got me where I was.  We turned a corner and there it was like the wizard of Oz and the yellow brick road.  I could see the Emerald City it was magnificient.

Of course I knew this was going to be at least 2km away though, but my steps became stronger and faster and the race was on for the finish line!  I was really pushing hard switching from running to walking and hurrying myself along.

I passed a few people, not on purpose more along the lines of I just wanted to finish rather than gain a few extra places on the leader board.  I had a chat with a few mainly French so the conversations were limited as my French is fairly limited ha ha!  Then all I could hear behind me was some singing and what sounded like a eukulele.  At first it was ok and fun but since I'd been running away from these guys all afternoon it was like torture to me ears.  I pressed on hoping to finish well ahead of them but unfortunately they court me and we all finished more or less together.

This was the moment I'd been waiting for, my thoughts were 'just don't fall over near the line as that will be your lasting picture of the race forever!'.  I was approached my Patrick the race director, handed my medal and given a hug and a well done.  I stood to have my photograph taken but the bloody eukulele man was hogging the limelight aarrrgghhh!!!!  I took my sweet tea and collected my water ration and headed back to the tent.  I received a good cheer along the way and met the boys who were already back sat with Lynton.  They clapped me in which made me slightly emotional again.  I'd done it, I'd achieved my dream, my goal and I'd broken 'The Worlds Toughest Footrace', get in!

Once the euphoria had calmed down a little and I was sprawled out on the rug sorting kit and stuff out I was ready to eat and they meant everything I had left lol!  I'd carried the Union Jack flag the whole distance in my pack so it was time to unveil it.  We tied to the tent post in celebration of us finishing and being proud to be British.  Great photo with my mate Lynton, very proud moment that I will always look back on with fond memories.

Looking at this now I can see how tired and exhausted I looked.  I didn't care at the time as I'd completed it.  My feet had survived, slightly battered and bruised and blistered but nothing too serious.  They had served me well and got me through.

We were all very giddy and full of it.  Why not, after that week!  It was such a great feeling and to be able to share that with others made it even more so.  We still the little matter of the charity day to do but it was to be only 7.7km and didn't affect the race times.  We kicked back and chilled out for the rest of the afternoon watching everyone else come in and clap them back to their tents.

I got cleaned up and refuelled and then just rested, I don't think I quite realised that was it, I'd finished, I'd achieved my goal that I'd worked towards for so long.  We were asked to head over to the finish line in the evening as there was some live music and presentations, and yes another Patrick speech. After hobbling about a bit I started feeling ok again to move, in fact I looked in pretty good shape compared to some people.  They were in a right mess, bandaged from head to toe almost lol! I headed over with John, it was just starting to get dark but we could see something on the ground scuttling about near the French lads tent.  I went over to investigate because I thought if its a little nasty they would want it sneaking in.  Turns out it was a little Scorpion.

So John, being 'The Terminator' started trying to get rid of it.  The more he antagonised it by trying to stamp on it the more it reacted and started going for him.  In the mean time I was just backing off slowly, keeping my distance just letting John go about his work!

Once he'd exterminated the little fella we headed over to see what all the fuss was about.  Tim was still at the Medics sorting his ankle out so we just had a wonder round.  There was a little stage built and a guy playing guitar with a female singer.  She was trying so hard to engage the audience and make it a fun occasion but everyone so just preoccupied with what they'd just achieved so weren't taking much notice of her.  We cheered the last runners in, everyone gathered and made it a special thing with photographers everyone and a fairly large welcoming committee.  I felt very sorry for these runners as not only had they probably just had the longest day ever and had to finish in the dark again but they then had everyone fussing about at the end when all they wanted to do probably was collapse in their tents.  We then moved over towards the stage where there was a few speeches and then the presentation.  Whilst this was happening a huge lorry turned up which was actually the free bar where I proceeded to get a beer and chill out on some stools Paul and I pinched.  It was a nice evening but I was done and ready for bed so headed back.  The problem was I now had visions of scorpions being in the tent eeeeekkk!

Morning had broken!  I arrived into camp at about 7.15am which meant it wasn't too hot yet and I'd achieved my target.  All I had to do now was to get across camp and find my tent.  What torture, you finish after 23 hours get a warm cup of sweet tea, 3 bottles of water and a poop bag lol then have to walk 1km to your tent.  Bearing in mind my left arm wasn't working any more and my legs were so tight they'd barely bend.  I crossed the camp and received a few claps from other tents mainly as most were collapsed or still out there.  I got to the tent and the boys were there to welcome me back, it was a great moment quite emotional actually.  A few cheers and claps then all the talks of the days labours.  I could barely get my pack off but I needed to a quickly.  I need my refuel drink and then some food, but mainly I needed to lay down I was done, broken................ but not beaten!

I spent the rest of the day flat out  resting getting patches of sleep and then sorting my kit out with the knowledge there's only the marathon day to go.  We were all exhausted now, it was catching up with us.  I was fairly ill throughout the morning, hoping that it would pass.  I knew it was just the exhaustion and sun stroke from the previous day.  I just needed to sleep it off the best I could and eat as much as I could afford to.  The pack was now getting to a reasonable weight, the problem was my body was feeling fairly beaten up so the weight difference was that apparent as it hurt no matter what.  We were told that in the middle of the day we would receive the famous 'can of coke', we couldn't wait this was golden.  I had wondered over to the medics tent to receive some treatment on my legs where I had managed to get a couple of blisters that were the size of grapes and I just didn't fancy treating them myself in case of infection.  Normally I wouldn't be bothered but so far into the race hygiene probably not at its best I just thought it would be safer.

I headed back with the great big patches of red on my legs where the iodine had stained the skin. I noticed a lorry in the middle of camp and queue's of people gathering.  I just joined the queue not actually knowing what I was the for.  It turned out we were receiving a fresh race number and then, yes you guessed it, the can of coke. WWWHHHAAAOOOO!  So I took my can and made my way back to the tent.  The boys could not believe I'd got mine, they hobbled off to get their rationed can.  It turned out that there was a shortage of full fat coke so Tim ad Paul ended up, to my amusement, with a can of Coke that was suger free, fat free, and feel great free lol!  Mine was great lol!

Preparations continued as the last runners came in, some on the cut off of 35 hours.  Massive respect to these people for being out there all that time and knowing that their recovery time was going to be very little before the next days race.  I got myself sorted and bedded down hopefully to get a full nights sleep in preparation for the last day.  We'd made it this was what the it was all about, the plan had worked, now it was time to finish the job!!!

Day 4 had arrived!  The dreaded 'long day'.  This was what my strategy had been all about, getting to this point in as best shape as possible.  I was feeling good, no major blisters or foot problems, no injuries, no set backs!  I was tired, hungry, and broken in other ways but ready to attack this day with everything I had, everything I'd learnt over the last few years and everything I had done in training.  The game was well and truly a foot, because if I get through this day then I only have a marathon do complete for my medal and finishing time.

We were up a little earlier to day as they wanted us off quite early with it been the greatest distance.  So all fed and watered, back packs ready! We headed off to the now very familiar start line and antics.  To be honest as fun as it was on the first day it was starting to wear off a bit now and I just wanted the countdown and to get on with it.  Mentally I had prepared myself for a long day, literally!  I knew I was going to be out there for a good 20 hours it just all depended on the terrain and level of difficulty of the day.

My plan was to power through the morning trying to cover as much as possible before the sun became a major factor, which it did.  I became nauseous again during the hottest period and worried about my longevity out there.

My plan was to get through checkpoint 4 in good time and have something to eat and a little rest.  I arrived there around 6pm which was perfect, I was starving by this point and actually struggling but I knew I just had to get there and refuel.  Since I was there in good time I decided to push on to checkpoint 5 before I had any dinner.  This plan served me well even though I was struggling it wasn't a time to stop for a break I wanted to get more distance done before I allowed myself  treat.  I stumbled through the checkpoint gates collecting my water and pretending I was in great form and smiling.  There was a massive light hoisted up and tents built all around it for people to crash and rest.  I found a spot on the dusty stone ground with groups of others who were just get there kit out and eating and evening meal.  All I could think was calories, I must get calories in me, and salt.  I made up a recovery and refuel drink and began getting a meal prepared.  The head torch was on by this point and I needed to change the batteries I could barely see my own feet.  Once I'd eaten I wanted to have a little lie down and rest.  Mainly just to allow the food to go down before I started again and also to rest my eyes for a little bit.  I think at this point we had done about 30 miles, and a tough 30 miles let me tell you.  I gave it 15 minutes before I decided if I rested any longer I'd be in danger of falling into a deep sleep and staying for a lot longer which wasn't to my liking and not in the plan.  So up I got like I was 100 years old, tight legs, sore feet and incredible sore shoulders.  Off I trotted once I'd worked out which direction lol!

It was always going to be a mental battle I knew that, seeing a lot of very ill and weary people out there I was glad I had some experience of the distance and how my body would react.  The further I got the more my body was breaking down.  Not only battling dehydration and limited calories but my left arm became so painful I could no longer lift the pole in front me, it just dragged behind and I used it to push me along.  My bicep had become that sore it too was making me feel ill.  My shoulders were also destroyed but that was now the norm, no escaping that. Last but least, my hamstrings were starting to tighten up to the point that they weren't going to be able to bend soon so I had get going it was time to push on and get this last section done.  The sun was now up which was an unbelievable experience just watching sunrise in the desert, beautiful!  We came to an old mine, the grit and sand had changed to a darker brown which was a bit weird after all this time, it a while for my eyes to adjust.  As we passed through shacks and falling village I could sense the end, my watch had run out of battery but I managed to keep the clock going on it so I knew roughly by my average pace how far I had to go.  I was desperate now to get back, I didn't want to be out there when the sun started to get hot again my body was already in shock and needed rest.  We turned the corner and there it was, the bivouac!

So all back at the tent, this was a celebration in itself.  Runners were now dropping like flies, people hobbling round camp at the end of the stage and limping into the medics tent or doc trotters. I could hear people now discussing foot problems and rubbing in areas that you don't want to be.  My feet were gradually degrading and blisters appearing, which to me was inevitable and par for the course. It didn't bother me as it was nothing I hadn't seen and dealt with before.  Clean it, iodine, then tape it up!  What was more unusual was the mini nose bleeds I seemed to be getting each day.  It was nothing serious, I guess just from the small particles of sand that was like dust in the air.  My nose wouldn't bleed out but would be more crusty and blocked. Pretty disgusting to be fair but not too much I could do about it.

Here's Tim and Paul discussing the days challenges whilst refuelling and having their three course evening meal. I think this was where Tim was just talking us through his bathroom experience.  It went along the lines of the plastic seat breaking and how he fell to the side obviously nothing to hold on too so ended up crashing through to the next cubicle and introducing himself to some French dude.  Whilst using his best Francais he was losing control of 'the bag' and ended up in a bit of a mess.  I won't go any further into this but it was highly amusing for the rest of us when he came back and said something like " hey boys, YOU DO NOT!!!!! want to go in the middle cubicle, I've just found out its broken!" ha ha!  I found myself cracking up to this all night.  Cheers Tim lol!

Whats next, whats the next day got in store for us?  Oh  yeah its the long day, preparation done and feet ready.  Need fuel and rest, oh well I'll just have cope with what I've got which was kind of the way I treated the whole week.  Its only for one week, 'suck it up buttercup!'

Day 3! Wow I was just so glad to be able to say that and be there still.  I had been so worried about my foot flaring up and making it a complete nightmare but it hadn't and I was sticking to my strategy of just getting to the long day in the best shape possible.

So with the jebels in the background what did day 3 have in stall for us.  To my horror, sand dunes, and lots of them.  The road book said it was a 30km day which normally that would mean it shouldn't be too hard.  I knew that it couldn't be that easy, its The Toughest Footrace in the World!  How right I was, it might have only been 30km but wow what a 30km.  This day really sapped me as it was relentless dunes and slow moving progress, but at least progress.  All I wanted to do was to get through today, push on and get it done.

So today I had use the knowledge learnt from the last few days regarding salt tablets.  This was fairly easy to grasp.  'TAKE MORE'!!!!   So I knew that when it starts getting tough, as in when i'm having to work harder and sweat more, I need more of everything.  Salt, water, and calories!  Yes you will hear me talking a lot about this and if it sounds repetitive then sorry but it was.  If I am to explain to you how it was, with thoughts and routines then this is exactly what it was.

This is one of my favourite pictures.  This started of as a tough climb in the dunes but then developed into a Jebel. As tough going as it was I loved this.  Getting up high with the views and getting different terrain broke it up and made it feel exciting. Once I'd done the hard climb, which was at least in the morning so the temperature wasn't ridiculous yet, we got up on to the ridge this was amazing.

You can see on this picture the soft sand, this was like when your on the beach walking between the small dunes or just up down a long hilly beach.  This kind of sand was so hard to walk, run or climb in as it felt like one step forward and slide back two.  My heart rate was rising rapidly, so guess what???? Yep, get some salt tablets downed! This trek up the dune felt endless and mentally was a tough challenge.

It was worth it though, just look at that view.  This is another one of my favourite pictures, I love being able to see the line of runners they just look like ants ha ha! Incredible view and what an experience.

 This was another great moment in my day.  I was ahead of the 'COW' thank goodness!!!

The day just seemed to go on and on, ploughing through the soft sand and crossing dune after dune after dune.  I was now taking 2 salt tablets every hour and extra when I knew I was going to be working harder or just after a tough stretch where I thought I'd sweated more.  All I could keep thinking was its only 30km and once its done I was on to the long day which was always the target.

We crossed many long dunes but the one above felt significant.  The view shows the flat plains ahead of me which showed me that for the next hour at least I will be on harder ground, not necessarily easier as I found out.  It was only slightly more compact and kept switching in patches from soft to hard.  This messed with your mind, as you thought you were through a tough section and were going to get a slightly easier period, but no I was straight back in and out of the soft, draining, energy sapping sand.

So after about 20km we ended up back at the mountain range from the previous day, just slightly further along.  From where I stood to take the picture it didn't look too bad, but once you were half way up and sheltered from the breeze it just got tougher and tougher.  Near the top of the long climb was the rope from yesterday that had been moved and clipped in.  We needed it to help climb up the final section which was made awkward with the poles and slightly dangerous with other people at the same time pulling the rope in all directions in their bid to make the top.

Once over the top I assumed it wasn't going to be too far to the bivouac.  We were back on flat hard ground that was very stoney.  There was one single trail path that lead us across yet another plain.  I was suffering now as had been in the hottest part of the day and I just wanted to be back at base camp laughing and joking about my day just gone. I still had some work to do as the camp wasn't in sight yet.  All I could see in the distance was a hilly bank and people seemed to disappear at this point.  So it was either that the camp was there or we had to go up the bank.  Again with it being the 3rd day there seemed a pattern with the placement of the camp each day.  We always seemed to have a tough climb then a spectacular view once over the top of the camp.  This now became my target and I decided to get a move on as I could sense the finish line.  I wanted, or should I say needed a distraction.  So I started coming up with a rhyme to occupy my mind.  Before long I was up and over the bank that seemed so far away at one time and I was on my home.  In the picture above you can see what I saw, this was about 2km away aarrgghhh!  Anyway it gave me plenty of time to fine tune my rhyme ready for my grand entrance to the tent for the boys in the tent.

It was a glorious moment, I'd planned it  for the last couple of hours.  The rhyme was based on my day and I used my Hardmoors classification title of 'Shire'. It went something like

There was a shire from Yorkshire

Who crossed the desert that was his desire

Over a dune and a jebel or two

and then he felt pretty dire!!!

I know I know its that imaginative but it was the best I could do at the time.  It took all my powers to remember that, but a brilliant distraction and a great way to end my day.  Like I say a glorious moment.  Once I'd managed to get the pack off and out of my horrible salt lined smelly clothes I managed to lay down and relax.  Head on pack, feet raised up on sleeping bag and roll mat, and recovery drink in hand.  I was glad this nice easy 30km day was done.  My feet were boiling and starting to look like they'd been in the wars.  I picked up a couple of blisters but nothing major.  I empty my shoe from the thin soft sand that manages to get in, cleaned them down then popped them splashed in some iodine and left to dry.

With day one done we were in it, no turning back only forward progress would do.  For me it was like a job now, I was there to get it done and I was going to treat it like work.  There were routines in place now that I needed to follow in order to feel prepared for the day ahead and to deal with the challenge of that day.

The day began with what was now becoming the norm, the elephant stampede to the toilet block.  For some they couldn't wait, literally.  So the idealic holiday morning draw back of the curtains where you look for blue skies, beautiful landscapes, ocean views, nope not here!  You were most likely to get the view of someone's backside or frontside depending on the direction of the wind! Once I had sorted out my own morning ablutions I needed to get some food in me, sort my water rations and the attend to my feet.  Today was meant to be quite tough, it was 40k with numerous testing jebels.  Now after yesterdays little teaser, intro day, welcome to the desert, I was preparing for a battle.  I knew today was going to be about getting the salt tablets, hydration and calories right.  Legs felt good and ready for a marathon, since we'd only done one day this was pleasing ha ha!

Off we went still showing signs of energy and excitement.  We knew we were in for a test today so the mental games began straight away.  Boom straight away, up we go!  Heart rate nearly through the roof and a gradual feeling of nausea, oh great!  I kep pushing on and trying to work through but all I could see ahead of me was this mountain.  The breeze abandoned me and the heat became the new battle.  I could feel myself getting worse and worse, people were collapsed in heaps under any tree or shadie bit they could find, which in the desert ain't much!  I ground to a halt, there was a medic under a tree treating a coiple of people who looked pretty ill.  I was reluctant to stop because I didn't want them thinking I couldn't cope and giving them reason to pull me out but I had to. I had to just take a few minutes to get me back on track.  I knew the feeling well as have felt like it before on other events.  I needed not just water, but food and salt tablets.  Then I just needed a few minutes to compose myself before heading off.  I had a little chat with the medics they were just wanting to make sure I was ok before heading off.  One told me it was 1 and a bit kilometres up and over, then you'd be able to see the bivouac.  Great sounds so easy!

So off I trot, the ascent started ok but I slowly began to become weary and struggle.  My heart rate was much higher now and I was sweating profusely.  The need for mini breaks became often, just to let my heart come down then off I'd go again putting in another bout of effort.

So all I had to do was keep going. prevent myself from being sick and get to the top.  Another mini break and I'd be there!

The view back now was amazing, we'd covered such distance and gained great elevation.  I needed to reach the top then it would be done, just a matter of getting down the other side but I'd worry about that when I got there.  I turned the corner of the never ending climbing and I could see the pinnacle before people just seemed to disappear so that was the target.  Heart in mouth and desperation written all over my face I got there.  Instantly shovelled two more salt tablets down, a shot block and a gulp of water.  What was next!  The view was amazing, breath taking!

So all we had to do was start the descent by holding onto a rope and kind of abseil down before just making a run for it!

"Right here you are" the marshal said, "off you go!  Allez Allez!"

Once I'd made it to the bottom, bit of a scramble the last bit but actually quite good fun, exciting, I headed off towards camp.  We were are able from the top of the climb to see the camp.  Yet again it was about another 2k from here but everyone suddenly had a spring in their step and they were racing it home.

This was a great feeling, as it meant I'd got through day two and we were now well on our way to getting to the long day.  Just the matter of the dunes day tomorrow, but lets worry about that tomorrow!  I stormed into camp, the boys were all back and crashed out in the tent.  I entered to a round of applause and a few cheers which was nice, I then proceeded to untangle my pack from my body.  Oh my lord I cant move my arms let alone use them to lie down.  My shoulders were so sore it was unbelievable, they were that bad I couldn't rest on my arms or use them to prop myself up, the pain was immense.  This took a good couple of hours to wear off, but thankfully it did wear off otherwise it was going to be a long night.  Again!!!!