Whats it all about then?  This a very individual thing and if like me you can't exactly explain it then you tend give reasons that people understand.  I just get such a buzz, or good feeling when I'm out on the trails and you get some incredible scenery and sense of well being from being slightly remote and adventurous.  Its great to get away from all the hussle and bussle, and phones and computers etc etc.. Again I still find it hard to pin point exactly why I love it, I just know I do and it makes me feel good and makes me feel alive.  Sounds a bit mushy but its true!

Now that I am back training, obviously not at full pelt yet but definitely back in the game, I am loving being able to do gym work and now starting to plan some runs again.  My main concentration at the moment has been and will be for a bit yet, ankle strengthening.  I really want to get some speed work done so the sooner i feel like I have some confidence in my ankle the sooner I can start pushing myself again.  Its amazing what injury does to your mind, your confidence in your body to complete even the simplist of tasks is shot.  This maybe a self defence mechanism to help you protect the weakend or broken area until its mended or ready to be used again.  Its like your body forcing you to take it easy and not to re-injure the same area by going to hard on it.  At the same time its an incredible thing monitoring how the body copes with injury and fixing it.  Its been a good four weeks for me now and it feels as good as new and ready to go, but because my confidence is low in it I feel the importance to just take it steady and build up so as not to re-injure.  Its tough but patience is key if you want to regain the strength you had before.  Give it time to heal.

On Sunday I made my way to Gargrave in the Yorkshire Dales on the route of The Pennine Way which I am racing on in January.  My goal was to test my ankle by hitting the trails, whether it be a bit of running or mixed with walking I didn't care as it was the terrain that was important to me and whether or not it coped.  I also wanted to experience some more of the route as this will prove vital during the event.  As it was for the second time out of two I got lost within a mile or two.  I didnt realise it at the time as was just ploughing on trying to get some strong walking in before attempting any sort of running.

I managed to workout using the river where I was and then eventually return to the correct path.  My theory now was that as long as I return on the correct route I will still experience it properly.  The lesson here is not just about following the map, as I was doing that just not visulent enough.  No, the lesson was, do your recce's on unknown territory if you get the chance, as I am happy to have made the two errors whilst out on the recce as apposed to making those errors for the first time whilst in the race.  That would spell disaster! Some of the paths if unknown and especially if in adverse whether or during the night would be a nightmare as not always clear to where to go, no directional markers and no path or trodden walk way.   Not obvious anyway.  Its going to be interesting anyway because after 70 odd miles in pitch black, cold and wet, and miserable we are going to experience all of this!!!

Oh dear, what have I done......

Feels great to be back in the gym again.  It feels now like I haven't lost too much training time and I have a chance of getting back to where I was.  I am going to go out on a recce run this Sunday along the Pennine Way which I am excited about and anxious about at the same time.  I really don't want to make my ankle worse again and go back a step so I will be just going very steady, walking most of it with a bit of running when I'm sure of the footing.

Next week I will begin a more structured form of running, including short tempo runs where I am trying to improve my pace, then there will be a medium distance run so 7-10 miles at my average pace and trying to maintain it.  Then finally a longer run at a slower pace with a pack, this will hopefully be more like every two weeks  and on a trail somewhere.  I will also be trying to get in a hill session but this maybe also on the same day as my strength and conditioning session or short run day.  My conditioning sessions are going to continue to work on balance, stability, core and upper body strength with some focus on hamstrings and glutes.  I love getting in to this training mode as I really feel it has to planned and executed to achieve your goals.  Its great when you start seeing the benefits of the training and the end goal is getting nearer and nearer.

My kit is starting to come together now.  The main worry is for the Spine Challenger at the moment as this is nearing, and I still have some major bits of kit to get so its all very exciting but tough  trying to get the quality equipment but at the same time without spending an absolute fortune.  Next up I need to really knuckle down with the kit list, then training plan and then race schedule!

Time to get busy!

Boom! I am off again, gently gently though.  I feel like I have turned the corner, slow build up in the training now to get back on track but without aggrivating my ankle injury.  It has felt great to actually get in the gym and feel like I am making headway.  The swimming has been important too as has given me a mini challenge and a focus away from being injured and stressing about it.

Whats the plan now? Well I have to get my kit in order for the Spine Challenger race as there is a lot of it and it needs to be right.  I hoping my ankle will be strong enough by then to be able to get out and do it.  I am currently sifting my way through endless kit lists and training programs.  What it is doing though is reassuring me that I am on track and my theory on the training I need to do is about right.  I am now starting to feel the excitement for not only the event but the training.  This is important as it is what will get youout on the cold miserable mornings when your bed is the better place.

The bad news is though that I will miss out on the MdS kit run this saturday in Farnham as my ankle is definitely not ok for that training.  It would have been great to run alongside the others and have a bit of a chat.  I feel like I am missing out but there is no point making it worse and I can't travel down there just to say hello.  I will benefit much more from the rest and a light training session.

So whats the main thing I have learnt from this, time!  You have to give injuries time to heal and recover.  Patients, rehab methods and process!  Trust the process.

Its been another tough week with my ankle injury, the highs and lows mentally are a rollercoaster.  I have read up on all the information and think it is somewhere between a grade 1 and grade 2 so sufficient rest is required to start rebuilding the strength in it.  I managed my first session in the gym yesterday after leaving it a week and a half.  This was definitely helped by a massage in the morning that loosened up the surrounding tight and sore muscles.  With the massages and the steel splint ankle support i feel my recover has been quite quick.  The main problem I have is my work as have to be on my feet all day and therefore load bearing and twisting and stretching the joint.  I look at this in a positive way and think it is good for it to be moving and starting that rebuilding work, the downside is it makes it sore and swollen therefore recovery icing and elevation are important.

I am now getting excited about the races that are coming, yes I am stressing about them too but that is mainly about the kit and the navigation side to these challenges.  Kit is the biggest issue as it can get quite expensive and the original idea behind all this was to keep costs down.  I am also excited at the training that is going to be involved, to start with I have the Spine Challenger, one of the coldest and most gruelling 100 milers out there.  So clothing and kit essential but also route knowledge of which I have pretty much none at the moment.  The intention is to go out again a week on Sunday with Rob, hoping that my ankle will firstly be recovered enough for a light session and also that I can complete some mileage even if just walking.

The psychology of everything going on at the moment would make interesting studies!  I have the stress of worrying if I am doing the enough training and the right training.  I am stressing about the kit, not for one race but for two.  To top it off I am now worrying about an injury and if I will have recovered in time to actually do these races!!! eeeek!

Where do you start.......

Sunday morning came round quick, the plan all week was to get out on The Pennines and recce some of the route for The Spine Challenger in January.  I didnt have the best preparation really as had a bad ankle all week so did no running of sorts just gym work.  I was actually quite excited about getting out there and doing a bit.  I wanted to see what the path was like and how tough this race is going to actually be.  Well I found out, it was horrendous!

I decided I was going to do part of the route from Hebden Bridge, so I found a carpark which was what I thought was near to the path and got myself kitted up and ready.  I was wearing a pair of running tights with another pair of leggings on top, with 4 layers on my top half with hat and gloves.  I had the map at the ready and my phone with the location googled and a map incase i needed it.  I set off in the direction of the Pennine Way all excited enjoying the stunning snowy cold crisp views and being really pleased with myself for actually getting there doing it.  It wasnt far along the road before I came across a signpost pointing in both directions and saying Pennine Way.  Great I'm there!  So I crossed the road and followed this beautiful trail only to discover about 200 yards later that it had taken me back into the town and more or less exactly where I'd started.  So feeling rather frustrated I kept studying the map which I have now decided was utterly useless as didn't show enough detail, I eventually picked a direction to go and decided to ask for help.  I ended up going back up the same road I had originally and apparently it was about 10 minutes walk from there!

Once I had eventually found the trail it was just as I imagined, heading out on to the moors covered in snow with a cold brisk wind sending a chill through your bones.

This path was horrendous, no clear visible route only footprints from the previous people. My feet were sinking the stream like path where the chilling ice cold water seeped into my trainers soaking my feet.  Trying to avoid the deep pools I ventured to the edges of the path stepping and striding over the clumps of snow topped grass.  After about 2 miles my worst nightmare happened, I went over on my ankle 'again!!!!' and yet again it popped with an explosion of pain going on in my ankle.  This was bad, I knew it was'nt going to be an easy walk back to there car it was about 4 miles away, and I was a hobbling wreck!  I was able to walk on it as long it was flat and I could try keep my weight off it.

I eventually made it back to the car, to my relief! Cup of coffee, a bite to eat then off I went back to York.  I had work to get back for which was going to be a challenge in itself.  This overall was a great experience unfortunately it was going to cost me a few weeks and was going to put a halt to my training!

This has been a very tough week.  Never thought I'd admit to missing going for a run as much as this.  I am busting to get out there, but I just don't want to go back a step or two in my recovery.  My ankle and foot is much for the rest and it has definitely done it some good, its not like I havent done any training either.  I have made sure I have worked hard in the gym with strength and conditioning and done my cardio on the bike and stairmaster.  I think also its important to have a little rest from running too so the timing was pretty good all in all.

So where does this leave me now?  With 6 weeks to go till the Spine Challenger I feel my fitness is good but I need to build up some mileage and get out and recce the route a little as panick is setting in regarding the navigation side to the challenge.  The kit I need is also important, deciding on sleeping bags, rucksacks, boots, baselayers, mid layers, jackets, stove's, food, water, checkpoints, crew positions and timings!!1 Its a minefield!

What am I learning about myself?  I think I am starting to understand that I like the fear of the unknown, I love the risk and the challenge of something so rediculous to others.  I love putting myself out there knowing full well the high percentage of failure due to the extreme nature of the challenge.  I am not trying to win, I am not looking for attention, I am not looking for a pat on the back, I am merely doing it because it makes me feel alive.  I love the challenge and the fact that I am taking on challenges and experiences that most people don't even know exist and didn't think people did, as I did, I was one of those people! I love proving you don't have to be in the elite category or superhuman group to achieve great things or complete such extreme challenges.  I love showing my daughter that the only limits or barriers in life are the ones we put up around ourselves and others.  Its almost a protective ring, a comfort blanket to some.

I do question my sanity sometimes, but then I keep seeing the amazing things other people do so I think why not, why not me!

Tough last few days really as been trying to rest my ankle after making the decision it was better to take a few days of impact and running to give it chance to heal properly.  Always a big ask with my work as always on my feet and load bearing.  So what I have been doing instead is almost as good, just not actual running!  Swimming has been my main focus, not being a great swimmer or lover of the water I resisted for a long time to take the plunge!  Not only swimming but I have increased the amount i am doing on the bike and stairmaster, mixing it all up to keep the variety of the workload and to get different forms of workout.  My strength conditioning involves muscle groups instead of just working one muscle as I decided i was just going to bulk up too much and that would mean I'd have to carry more which is not appealing!  The swimming has really taken off, due to my addictive personality type and stubborness i am really starting to feel the benefits.  My upper body strength is increasing because of it, my legs are getting a different kind of workout as it is breast stroke that I am generally doing.  My breathing and cardio seems to be improving because of it too which encourages me to do more.  My addictiveness takes hold when I get to a certain number of lengths say 40, and all i can hear myself saying is 'come on just two more' then i do them and i hear the same voice saying the same thing and before long i have done 50 ha ha!

I am currently trying to get out on The Pennine Way to recce some of the route for The Spine Challenger.  This is proving difficult just with work, family life and injuries.  Each day that passes though I read about others being out there and completing sections of the course and I am now panicking that I havent done enough.  My intentions are clear now, I need to get out there and some of it!  My training needs to alter slightly now and move nearer to pack training and more running over the next 5-6 weeks.

The need to plan is important, but the need to believe is greater!  Self-belief and mental training is crucial now.  The pain game is coming, time to get ready!

Yesterday was a bad day for my training, I had a tennis tournament semi final match where after the first set, which I dropped, I managed to get ahead but in the second game my ankle went.  I heard and felt what I can only describe as a popping noise or sensation.  It isn't really really bad, to the point I couldn't walk or stand on it, but I withdrew and knew it was over.  I wouldn't be able to run for anything or twist and turn, so the sensible decision was to pull out as much as it pained me but I had to.  So straight to the bench with ice pack and elevation, and a quick pint lol! Medicinal purposes only of course!!!

Until yesterday I have been really pleased with my progress, training has gone well and I have noticed the difference.  I went out to Millington last week and did 10 miles on hilly, muddy trails with a minimal pack prob 2.5 to 3kg in weight which was comfortable.  I managed the run in a reasonable time and felt good, no after effects either, no soreness and aching which suggested to myself that I might be getting fitter and more equipped for this event.

I like this because, I have goal that I am trying to achieve and its not a quick process its been long and with still 5 months to go my journey has been a long one.  In that journey I have changed, not only my body, physical capabilities but my attitude and mental strength.  Once I finish the MdS will that be it, goal achieved? Probably not because I am now a different person to the one who started this journey, I have evolved and become a better me.  This journey may never end, but each individual challenge and accomplishment will help me get closer!

I currently feel slightly caught between 'a rock and a hard place'!

This is because my main focus is 'The Marathon de Sables' but in a couple of months I am doing 'The Spine Challenger'.  Both have there own unique requirements, and both are going to be seriously hard.  The intention behind it was to be able to use the challenger as training for the Sahara which is still my view on it. This leaves me in the dilemma of having to start my pack training slightly early and ignore all the comments on starting to early will cause injury.  I agree with this in theory, but in practice as long as you don't over do it and prepare properly it can be used to your advantage.  That's what I am telling myself anyway ha ha!

So, where to now well........

I had a tough weeks training last week that I am really feeling the benefit from, and the effects from!  My training felt great, strength improving, legs feeling lean, running felt great even the waistline was improving.  The tiredness crept up on me, gradually as the week went on, I became more and more tired, heavy legged, stiff joints and motivation waning!

After continuing with my theme of upper body strength, core and various forms of running I decided to up the anti and take it a step further!  This meant bringing out the weighted vest!  This is a 20kg vest, too heavy to run in at the mo but great for on the stairmaster in my opinion, again with the right preparation and previous training its ok if introduced gradually.  In hign sight I would have preferred to have a go with a slightly lighter one first, so I have ordered one.  This can be used for resistance training and slow runs.  The effects were interesting though and makes you realise a few things that are going to occur in the desert.  Strength wise I actually felt good, core and lower back still noticed it slightly and legs were good, but obviously over the training time which was 30 mins they started to feel the work load.  The biggest or greatest effect came from my calves, they didn't struggle but I definitely felt it in them and know that as a result of this short test I want to improve on that.

Where to next ................???

Currently I am preparing for my strength and conditioning session followed by a short run and swim this afternoon before work.  I am hoping during my PT to iron out some definite training plans and make a more scheduled process.  Tomorrow, oh tomorrow!  I can't wait actually, I am planning on heading over to the Yorkshire Dales and doing Pen-y-Ghent one of the Three Peaks.  I want to be at the peak for Sunrise!  I am going to try some kit out but mainly its for the hill work and terrain.

Swimming, this is on my agenda!!!!  I am rubbish at it but my goal is to use learning to be a better swimmer as part of my training.  Learn something new as it incentivises you and motivates you in ways you can't normally!

MdS Training 2017 well on the way now!  After a good weeks training last week I was signed up to the MdS Expo in London.  This was brilliant, if you are ever thinking of entering it is a must!  I travelled down on Friday evening straight from work, stopping at the station bar (of course) for a cheeky pint of Amstel, or two!  I was visiting my cousin on the Fri eve and staying at his before he frog marched me to the venue.  This was necessary due to the number of catch up beers we had and the time of night/morning that I went to bed!  After rising to the shock of it being nearly 8am I got up fast and got on my way.

From the moment I walked in to reception I felt at ease, 'I am meant to be here!' Not being an obvious runner I probably stood out as one that may struggle, but if you've been reading this blog upto now you'll know I will stand a good chance if I plan it right.  I loved the expo, it was like a massive room full of clinically insane people that I felt part of.  It was a great feeling, we all had the same thing in common, we were running the Sahara!

So today I managed to finish work early and I decided I wanted to get out on a run and test my all new singing and dancing MdS pack.  I was actually quietly excited about this, new bit of kit and all!  I decided on my route, a nice 8 miler from work and back again.  My idea was to try the pack with a bit of weight in to start really experiencing it properly.  I wanted to know how it functioned, its strengths, weaknesses and any areas I could improve on it.  I wrapped 3x1kg sand bags in a towel and added 2x1 litre drink bottles to the back of the pack, this made it about 5kg.

I put the pack over my shoulders and to be honest my first reaction was 'mmm that's not bad, it doesn't feel that heavy!'  The watch set, strava on go, warm up complete, off I go or waddle should I say lol!  At first the weight was fine, no pace to my running mind you but weight ok.  The main issue was the side to side swinging of the pack at the base, this started rubbing almost immediately.  I was going to need to re-think this and most definitely learn something.  The weights had collated at the base of the pack which I guess caused the swinging motion and in toe caused the rubbing.  Note to self, learn how to pack your bag! The run all in all went well my mental notes were:

1 - upper body strength needs more work/ongoing
2 - core and lower back needs more work
3 - legs felt strong but noticeable difference with pack (strength and conditioning)
4 - feet being effected by the additional weight (soreness, impact)
5 - actually felt comfortable to run apart from moving pack

I have a new song title for The Kings of Leon, 'These legs are on fire!'

With the completion of York marathon I have been mulling over whats next.  Quiet week for recovery then begin again with core and upper body.  My running will begin short and every other run will be with a pack gradually increasing in weight.  I want to continue with doing the interval training as really felt the benefit from this and think it will serve me well to continue.  I will also be including trail runs to start getting the ankles strong.

What did I learn from the marathon?  Fisrtly, the main thing that became obvious was my socks, when my feet or toes swelled they became very uncomfortable so I need to address this quickly. My second main observation was my recovery rate, since I ran pretty much in my comfort zone, my recovery has been quick and fairly unrestrictive so very pleased with that.  Thirdly, no chaffing what-so-ever this time so lubricating well at the start paid off.  Stomach muscles began to get sore after 20 miles or so which seems to be the norm so more core work needed, legs felt strong the whole time just tightened up and began to get sore near the end.  Lastly, shoulders, these are aching now two days after as forgot to do any sort of stretching for the upper body.

Whats in the pipeline? How am I planning the next few months?  Well with just under 6 months to go till the marathon de sables and less than 3 months till The Spine Challenger it is important to begin training out on the trails and with a pack.  The plan is to select about 5 dates to get some time out on the Penine way for the spine and try to cover the distance that will be either in darkness or towards the end when exhausted.  My gym work as mentioned earlier will be based around core and upper body strength whilst continuing with short runs doing intervals and speed.

I have signed up for an mds training run in December which is 20 miles with kit which I am looking forward to for a number of reasons.  Meeting up with Lynton my mds buddy, meeting other runners and getting some kit advice.  I am also looking at the White Rose 60 end of October to have something to train towards and keep the mentality right, its a mind game aswell as a physical game!

So far I am really pleased with my progress, positive thinking and planning prove to be the key!

Here's today psychological conumdrum.  When I tell people I am running the York marathon this Sunday most people reply with 'oh wow, that's great have you done much training?' to which my response has been 'yes but with a few interuptions but feeling good', they then follow on with 'well you'll find a marathon a doddle after what you've done!' to which my reply is 'nope, there all as difficult as one another you just know whats coming!'  This is honestly how it feels, whether I run 5k, 10k, half marathon, marathon or a 100 miles.  My experience has shown me that they're all difficult its just how you decide to mentally prepare yourself for each accomplishment.  They all hurt, they all make me tired and they all need to be trained for, just some more than others.  Now being someone who just try's to finish and not really motivated by time and PB's its just about getting out there and doing it.  So, even though I've done the Hardmoors 110 a mere marathon is still a long way and will still hurt plenty! No easy runs, just less hard!

Not long now till York Marathon just over 5 days.  Training has resumed to a good level but tapering is in progress.  I feel good, legs feel strong and bursting with energy, although a slightly sore ankle but this wont bother me too much as long as squash doesn't make it worse.  I am ready I feel to push myself, to push my body beyond what I have known so far in endurance and running.  Up till now I have only ever run to finish or run in my comfort zone which I like I feel I can run all day like this and that I have proved.  Now I feel I am equipped with the tools and fitness to push beyond comfort so I will be running harder than I have before to achieve my best time yet!

As far as my training for the Marathon de Sables or The Spine goes my fitness levels are at there best but I still have plenty to do, I feel stronger and leaner and my running is quicker.  Where I feel I really want to improve more is in my VO2 max.  This I will be concentrating on in October and November, with strength training but mainly on interval training and High Intensity Training.

My learning is growing every day and my knowledge is becoming a weapon.  Next, start researching kit! and train like a beast ha ha!

After a great weeks training last week, good gym work conditioning the body to different stresses, hill work, interval training and bags of cross training I have tired myself out and become run down and now dealing with a low immune system that has let a sore throat develop and flu symptoms arise!  I have eased off for the last two days trying to allow some rest.  Which after being told this is what I should be doing, I still find very difficult as a person who tends to fill every minute of every day with something its hard!  Resting is harder than training, fact!  I can't sit still, I spend all my time thinking I should be doing something, I feel guilty for not utilising the time better.  I cant even read because my concentration isn't good enough with feeling a little ill.  Its hard to even write this lol!

A nice diversion was a topic we came across earlier whilst I was having my massage.  'The perception of fitness levels'!  This is a great area to talk about because we all have a different perception of either our own fitness or other peoples and what we consider to be fit.  Now I run pretty much on average every other day, I have completed double marathons, triple marathons and a quadruple marathon, I play tennis 40 hours week I play squash twice a week and I do various other activites yet I have days , like others do I'm sure, when I can be out running or in the gym or playing a racquet sport when I question my fitness.  I feel like yes I am reasonably fit but I don't consider myself really fit, a trained athlete or super human, but when you compare yourself to some that is how you look or how they see you and describe yet you compare yourself to some others who seem super fit and super human and I just think I am average and need to train really hard consistently for a long time to get anywhere near where they are or even that I can not possibly ever be as fit as them.  Its an interesting psychology battle I think as we constantly raise the bar, we constantly expect more from ourselves, theres never a point that's enough!

Just todays ramblings and thoughts!

Great finish to my weeks training.  I decided to go for a quick 5-6 miles carrying my hydration pack as good to keep practicing with it on.  My legs felt great, almost difficult to slow them down, its bizarre how some days you cant get them to move at any pace and feel so heavy yet other days like Sunday they almost pick themselves up and just go.  When I thought I was going to hit a tough patch I just got my head down and pushed on but to my surprise my legs just kept feeling strong.  My thoughts just kept swimming around ideas of the Sahara and how I was going to cope, this occupied plenty of my time lol!  I got back to the gym and set about my stretching routine as I was then going to play squash, this I like doing after a run as my legs are done by this time so it makes me really dig in and my competitive edge makes me keep working hard till the end.

This morning was meant to be a long run but felt tired after my crack of dawn tennis lesson.  So the gym it was, I put myself through a heavy work load of upper body weight training and a series of squats, lunges and kettlebell drills.  I followed it all up with a stint on the stairmaster pulverising my legs by doing a number of sprints hoping this will improve my cardio.

My body is holding up well but I need to be careful now not to over do it as I can feel my addictive nature kicking in and the desire to just keep training and training.  I am doing a short run before work this afternoon just to loosening my legs up.   Double sessions are good for endurance training, but not all the time as will now feel exhausted tomorrow.

Questions I put to myself, how much? how far? how strong? how specific?

I woke this morning as normal by a ridiculously early alarm with the intention of getting a medium run in knowing I had done a lot of training over the last few days.  With in minutes the chirps up and a text message comes through, now at 6am I don't get many messages so I kind of know who it could be.  It was 'Gaffer Gath', Matthew messaged me to see if  I wanted to do a long run this morning instead of his lesson.  Not good for my bank balance but he was going anyway so I thought I should join him.  It was to be longer than I'd planned but good time on my feet and the mileage was important.  It was a disaster!  After 3 miles I felt like I had hit the wall, my legs felt heavy like I was running in treacle, the lactate felt like it was gradually building up legs like an overflowing cup but I kept going with a few rest stops to re-motivate.  The problem on days like this your mind just wants you turn round and go home and give up on it as a bad day at the office.  This feeling of suffering and mental toughness is exactly the practice and experience your body and mind needs.  I needed to push on through so I knew I could still push myself even when things aren't right and its just not happening, because this is not a true reflection on how it feels every time although your demons in your mind will tell you it is, in fact it will try and convince you that you cant do it, why are you bothering, whats the point if going to be like this, your not good enough, you haven't trained enough! Its all lies to make you stop and rest and have it easy, its your body reacting to pain and hardship because it doesn't like it.  This is when to keep going, this is when you learn the most and gain the most.  Rest after yes for sure, but don't give up because your inner self is trying to convince you its bad for you!

We managed to drag ourselves round with a few stops or walks but not for long each time just enough to re-energise.  Once we had finished I was actually dead chuffed to have pushed on through, not ideal for marathon training but great mental training and time on my feet for the Marathon de Sables.  I am constantly learning lots of little lessons that you only really take note of when you actually fall into the trap yourself, its ok to hear from others but to have that experience that afterwards you say to yourself, 'please don't do that again, please learn from your mistakes'.  Make a note then move on!

Whats next......

With half the money paid for my adventure to the Sahara I am now even more motivated than ever.  I have notched up the training to increase the base level and to start adding more relevant training methods and exercises.  I am working towards various other events mainly to break down the size of the challenge by doing it in chunks and giving myself phases to work different aspects of the training that I want to do.  My mind set is becoming more and more focused on the job in hand and it is becoming more and more real.  My worries are simple ones at the moment but mental preparation is key, being in a position to either understand whats going to happen and how you deal with or/and knowing you have research a particular area as much as you can so theres no surprises.  I don't like not knowing whats going to happen to my body I like to prepare myself mentally and physically for the event.  My concerns are minimal at the moment but if you start checking them off your list early then there is less worrying done and more relevant training done.

I am going into Phase 2 of my training now preparing for York Marathon and then The Spine Challenger.  Strength and Conditioning work with speed work is my focus for the next six weeks continuing the work on my core.  Ideal weight for the marathon now is 14 stone 4 lbs so I need to lose approximately a kilo and a half!

So, 60 miles 20 odd hours and mind games galore!  This is Ultra running at its best.  It was 2.45am Saturday 20th August and my alarm was ringing but my body and mind were ignoring it, almost like it was a bad dream and it will go away.  It didn't.  Then I remembered I was meant to be doing something, 'going on holiday' nope it was definitely not that, 'going to work' nope I knew it wasn't that, ah yes 'The Ultra Tour of the Peak District' now more recently renamed as ' The Ultra Tour of Rain and Pain' ha ha!

The plan had been to meet up with Rob at the beginning which was in a place called 'Whirlow Hall Farm' just out of Sheffield, then for me to registered and both of us listen to the race brief.  I got there in plenty of time for a change.  I followed the signs and rocked up in this field that had been sign posted 'Event Parking', pitch black at this point but I thought there might have been a few cars there with people getting there kit together and packing bags etc.  Noooo, I couldn't see anyone or anything until I had driven half way across this field which I had very little confidence and thought any moment I was going to be stuck as it seemed waterlogged. Then suddenly the shape of two tents in the top corner started appearing more clearly and a couple of cars so I drove over and parked up.   I guessed one of them was Rob and Amy, but it still I was a little concerned at the lack of others.  I went and signed in first, then went back to the car as they gave me some goodies that I didn't want take round with me.  Rob was up and about, stressing about his phone not charging but generally excited about the race and keen to get cracking.

The race brief was fairly short just outlining a few changes to the route and where the feed stations were etc.  Then before we knew it we were out at the start line ficheting about doing last minute kit adjustments and pointless little stretches that make us feel better but actually probably do nothing to help you lol! 3, 2, 1 and we're off!  Steady start but just to help you get into it a bit there's a nice long incline to really get the lungs working and heart rate up.  Think I'd sweated a couple of litres already, my thoughts were 'oh god, is this a sign of things to come!'.

We began the race together which is great as you can have a bit of a chat and some banter in the first section before it all becomes more spread out.  First checkpoint for the dibber, and I nearly missed it if Rob hadn't shouted back to me ha ha!  This was where he moved on, which was inevitable as was moving quicker than me so he pulled away to the point I couldn't really see him in front of me any more.  I knew that would be it pretty much till the end that I see him as I wasn't going to be able to catch up, fact!  By this point your surrounded by the runners which are about your pace and that you will probably see quite a lot of during the race, some you want to stay with and some you cant wait to either be faster than them and pull away (always good incentive to go up a gear) and then the ones that pull away from you. I ended up buddying with a chap called Coem he was from Bristol originally Holland, we were going at about the same pace so we used each other to push on.  I like this situation as you both get used to the other and if its mutual (never anything said by the way) then you tend to just move on together.  I may lead for a while and keep pushing the pace then the other leads for a bit dragging you along and then it continues until you get to a point usually after numerous miles in this case about 30 before you ask each other there name lol!  This was how our race went, before long we were relying on each other to get us to the end, or at least to the cut-offs in time.  This seems to be a theme in my races, whether its I feel the need to be pushed by another or to feel like i'm helping someone else by pushing them along but whatever it is it keeps getting me to the end and in time!

The rain started off in just short showers pretty much from the start.  Once we started climbing and getting more on top of the moors the rain became harder and the wind was blowing it you with a fierce venim.  This suddenly seemed like it was going to be a very long day!  The trail had started with numerous little orange flags telling us the way to go, so I ambled along feeling reasonably confident of the route if it was like this.  Oh no, it soon became challenging when I cam across a right turn that was labled for us, but there was two arrows both pointing in different directs to what I could go.  My initial thought was definitely not for me just carry on.  In reflection, I am glad I took a few moments to get the map out and have a look and wait for the next runner 'Coem' to come along and see what he thought.  After deliberating over this for a while we decided we needed to turn here but I didn't like it as nothing suggested we should and I really didn't want to be back tracking up the steep incline back to the retched sign post and arrows.  We soon got to another turning point that had a few landmarks that I could use on the map to gauge where we were and we headed off.  I decided from that point that I didn't trust the little orange flags and I was going to constantly follow our movements on the map.

After leaving the next check point it was a tough grind across the moor with a view of a lake on the left that we were to follow.  The weather came in again, heavy rain blasting you in the face.  This continued forever it felt like but once we began our descent it seemed to calm a little.  We passed the mobile checkpoint, a marshal walking up and down the path with a dibber for us to check in with.  Now we were heading back along the lake we had followed from the tops and all I could keep thinking was, 'at some point we are going to have to go back up' as we had to re-join the path we were on and revisit a checkpoint which was doubled up due to the loop in the route.  The main target now was the cut-off checkpoint at 45 miles, mainly because I didn't want to have got 45 miles into a 60 mile race and then be timed out that would have killed me.  So we battled and tried to push as hard as we were able to, which on first looks isn't that quick but when you've already done 45 miles anything is good as long as you just keep going.  My original goal was to get it done in day light or at least near to it, but this was now looking impossible and by long way off!

We reached the cut-off checkpoint with an hour to spare so made the decision to take our time and get some food in us and be ready for the final stint.  I made the mistake of eating too much too quick and my body reacted badly to it and me feel nauseous with eventually making me want to throw it all back up.  Once we got going I knew I would feel ok again it was just the body not being used to taking the amount of food that I had forced down.   We set off in good spirits and ready for the final leg.  Powering on trying to follow the little orange flags and the start of dusk falling apon us.  We came to the final 6 miles following a river and awaiting the crossover where the final checkpoint was but it never came.  I became more and more warey of this problems the orange flags had not been seen now for a while.  So our map reading skills came into question and we decided to deviate from the path and head to the road and from there try and find our way.  This proved a nightmare and our undoing, eventually ending up in Grindlethorpe!  This was not good! After many deliberations we decided to call Ian the race director and ask for his help.  The decision was that we just make it back the best and quickest way possible which was going to be another 6 miles so in the end will make it about 64 miles!

We finally arrived back at HQ to everybodys relief!  The hot stew and cuppa were almost worth the extra miles but the problems I had after were definitely not worth it.  I got to my car all excited at the prospect of just going home but to my dismay the key fob wasn't having any effect when I press the button.  Well the words that were coming out of my mouth are definitely not repeatable even on here but you can probably imagine.  Anyway to cut a long story short, 6 hours later after going back and to the car in the field testing the key and trying to dry over heaters in the toilet block, calling the recovery company and having no help and then sleeping rough in a farm yard.  My Dad eventually came to my rescue, not in the form of picking me up but with the information that showed me the magic key which is hidden in the key fob for the passenger side door.  Hallelulea!  So I was now home bound thank goodness!

Its time for the hurting game to begin again!
A couple of weeks ago I ran in an event called 'The Railway Ultra', this is an event I have done before and thoroughly enjoyed although found incredibly difficult.  The route is an railway line track which runs 4.5 miles, you get to the checkpoint turn around and run back.  There is a 9, 18, 27 and 36 mile option with tight cut off's.  Of course I entered the 36, fully intent on completing the mileage in the 7 hours allowed and making the 27 point in 5 which turned out to be 28.5 lol!  It wasn't to be, I wasn't running fast enough to make the cut-off.  I set off well and became under a spell, disallutioned I think ha ha!  I thought well if I can do the first lap in an hour and a half I can do 4 laps in 6 hours surely.  Mmmmm silly boy!  At the turn around on the second lap I realised there was a slight incline, I didn't even notice it on the first lap but trust me, it felt like Everest the second time round and guess what, what? what? I hear you say, I slowed down ha ha!

I knew after that second lap that I wasn't going to make the cut off so steadied up and trotted on.  I finished the 28.5 miles that I recorded in just under 6 hours.  Even though I failed in doing the 36 I was happy to get that distance in, 'time on your feet' came to mind.  Rob pulled out even though he made it there in plenty of time and Amy carried on completing the full 36 miles in 6 hours 59 mins!
Our first comments were, ' I didn't train enough', 'I was under prepared', 'I wasn't ready for the pain'

and 'so whats next?' of course!

Recently I have been working on my speed over short distances, which for me being known as 'Diesel' for the main reason of being slow but steady has been quite tough.  I am trying to get used running to exhaustion rather than making my body endure long periods of discomfort.  This is starting to pay off, I have noticed a difference in the strength in my legs and the ability to go a bit quicker and maintain it.  The moral so far is to sometimes train at the things that are outside of your comfort zone.  Am exploring this method whilst I had a rest from long distances after the HM110.  I am now booked in to a 36 miler followed by a 60 miler in August.  Its time to get back to the trails and time to get some distance in.

I am feeling really positive now about next years adventures, training is going well and preparations have begun.  I will begin doing some running with a weighted pack soon as just ordered a pack for this purpose and a weighted training vest is arriving shortly.  My other area of focus will be core training and I have ordered a book on training with a medicine ball.  This will hopefully give me a slightly different angle to work on for a bit and improve my core strength going into my long runs.

Motivation is key now and to keep the momentum, don't get side tracked and keep moving forward!
Believe to achieve!!!!

New goals, new targets and fresh idea's!  This is how to keep yourself motivated during a lul, which is where I am at as finished my first main challenge and in a rest period really before two major challenges next year.

My training does need to increase but the rest has been good.  To make sure I haven't completely stopped and gone off the rails, I have given myself some shorter distance challenges that are making me train and get in the gym and keep an eye on my weight not allowing to escalate.

I have begun picking up bits and bobs of kit ready for the Sahara, its exciting and scary.  The fitness I can control to a certain degree but managing my feet and hydration is going to be a fast learning curve or I will suffer so practice and understanding my body is going to be important.  I am currently enjoying and injury free period at the moment apart from a little niggle in my back but that I am dealing with.  Upper body strength, core work and stamina with some speed work that is where my focus is at the moment.

This journey is moving on swiftly, after completing my original target of 100 miles I am now thoroughly hooked on the concept.  All I can keep thinking about is when can I enter my next one!  With the Spine Challenger in January and then the MdS in April I am not booking any more major runs in, I am however looking at a few Ultra's before this and I have the York Marathon.  So to challenge myself and give me some good training ammunition I have set myself some goals which in  my opinion is the best way to train as it keeps you motivated.  I have set my targets at for 5k 20 mins, 10k sub 50 mins, 13.1 miles 1hr 45/50 and therefore my ultimate goal of getting a sub 4 hour marathon.  Whether I achieve these or not isn't really what's important to me, what I gain from this is a quicker short run and the desire to train hard to get as near to those goals as possible.

Next part of my training will be to start running with weight and to get in the hills more.  I love this phase of a challenge where I set out what I need to work at where my strengths and weakness's lie.  I need to start learning how to look after my feet, and then I need to start learning about multi-day events as this will prove essential learning.

Next event is the Railway Ultra in August then Race to the Castle which I am really looking forward to.  Training wise, the Key at the moment is base level fitness, strength and conditioning in the gym and to work on the weak areas that have been high lighted in past events.  Physio work, and deep tissue massage will prove valuable at this stage whilst training keeps to low mileage.  Keeping fit, disciplined diet and slight weight loss would help at this stage to keep the focus and to not slip into bad habits.  I need to shift about 10 lbs so got a bit of work to do and attention to dietary needs.

The thought of putting on my running shoes and heading out the door has not been top of my list I have to say.  The idea was there but the excuse of letting the body rest etc was also there.  To be fair once I had initially recovered there was a few niggles that I did just want to let rest with the fear of over doing it.  Its not like I don't do anything when I rest as I will still 40 hours of tennis in the week with some session demanding more of me physically.  This I think helps my recovery as difficult as it is for the first few days it does make you get up and move about therefore stretching the muscles out.

Whats next, well I haven't booked anything in for the next few months as wasn't sure how I would be after the Hardmoors 110.  Since I feel ok and had a good recovery period I am now getting itchy feet and looking at another run in the next month.  My main plan over the next 6 weeks is get my weight down and to get in the gym doing some strength and conditioning so I can improve on areas I feel are weakness's.  The weight is my biggest concern after dropping over a stone before HM110 I realised the benefits and want to improve on this area again.  I will keep up my running schedule over the same period but will use it to help with the weight loss but it will be mainly to increase the base fitness and speed.

Marathon de Sables is becoming more of a reality so more research is on going and thoughts of my training plan are in the back of my mind with little ideas of what I'm going to do.  I am slowly becoming excited at the prospect of the adventure, before the Sahara though I have the Spine Challenger with Rob in January which I can't afford to over look so need to plan in some training for that alongside the MdS stuff.

So diet, gym and running! That is the plan, lets do this.

Hardmoors 110 (part 5)

Heading to Clay Bank was a great section as the sun was up as was our spirits.  My motivation was high getting to Clay Bank as I knew I could have a few minutes rest a quick bit of banter with the others.  As we clambered down the steep bank towards the road I could just make out Chris's van so I checked in and gave my number and walked towards the van.  Chris was up with the kettle on and Amy was still fast asleep, but not for long as we weren't exactly quiet discussing the night section and the horrendous weather.  Chris had been giving us updates about people dropping out and various comments from other runners as they had come through the check point.  Leaving the road side we headed up the next hill which was soul destroying after reaching the last and feeling so positive, we felt we had done the hills now but really we hadn't even got to the tough stuff yet.  Up we went one step in front of another, heavy breathing with lungs bursting and a heart rate to scare any GP!  I had to keep pausing to allow my heart rate to drop before pushing on as this was what was causing me to feel nautious all the time.   We were heading towards Lord Stones and the Three Sisters, which are a group of hills that just make it seem like there are endless ascents to climb.  With quads burning and heart rates rising we manages to keep pressing with odd bouts of running once on the flats, which by was becoming hard for me, just to attempt to increase pace and make my knees rise was more and more difficult.  Once up and running it wasn't too bad, getting into a rhythm was what I kept myself pushing for.  Rob was starting to feel the torturous climbs too with a great comment being 'its like they just find the hardest ascents then copy and paste it hundreds of times!' ha ha brilliant as that was exactly how it felt, relentless!  The only thought in my head now was, Osmotherly.  Mainly because it was such a psychological milestone and the major last cut-off which we had to hit with time in the bank.  Plus Olivia and my parents would be there to meet us and that now was exciting as hadn't seen them since Sandsend.

I keep looking at this picture, not sure what to make of it ha ha!  After the night section and with the knowledge of it not been out of my grasp I think my spirits were high yet I looked done in lol!
After passing the check point at Scarth Moor it wasn't then too far to Osmotherly.  This meant a lot to me now, the psychological boost I was craving wasn't far away.  Each person we met there was a brief conversation about the night section then quickly on to how far we are from Osmotherly.  My legs by now were screaming, my quads were going through hell but the knowledge of how far was now all that was keep me going.  We neared Osmotherly and I recognised the track that leads into the village, and at the end of it was my Dad, Olivia and my Mum which was brilliant, Olivia ran at me and gave me a hug and wanted to walk with me holding my hand and we managed a quick chat with everyone expecting the check point, only to hear that it was up to 2 miles away aaarrrggghhh!
We left everyone and headed off, they were going to meet us at the check point if they could find us!  After several places that I thought it was going to be, we could see my dad and Olivia again. Wow we were ready for refuelling, I needed water and something to eat I was running low and feeling it.  Once I'd checked in we went to the van, sat down, and had some much needed soup!  This was the big change over for Rob and Amy.  Rob had finished his part, and even after a few comments through the night of wanting to carry on once here, I think he was relieved to actually be able to finish, he was done.  Once refreshed (if you can call it that) I attempted to stand up ready for off, this time it wasn't going to be as easy as that, my legs were going to take more convincing.  So with a slight stagger, stumble and going back to 'one foot in front of the other' mantra there was a few "ooo's and aaarrgghh's" but given a few 100 yards I was back to it and knew I would be ok if just pushed on.  The path lead us on a long slow winding up hill trail yet again, this was ok as I was on the home straight, this was now the end game, the last 19 miles!

Amy was wrapped up with more clothes than I think I've ever seen anyone where before, as the layers increased so did the size of the clothing ha ha! We were off and that was all that mattered,  with only 7 miles to High Paradise Farm I wanted to get motoring and ticking off the miles.  I was digging in now as each ascent was taking a little bit more of the very little I had left in the tank, but the engine kept running!  Knowing the route so far was now becoming a hindrance as I knew each bit so on the down side I knew how far there was to go.  Getting to somewhere near Sutton Bank was the goal, the path just kept going and going, I was chasing a guy in front of me that seemed to be keeping good pace so he was a good marker. We  eventually arrived at High Paradise Farm but there was no sign of anyone, no Chris and no family, so what's happened why weren't they there? The things that effect you mentally at this stage of a race can be the smallest things, the build of excitement seeing people or achieving small targets is massive mentally so when something occurs that you didn't plan or for see then it becomes a bigger issue.  After nearly bypassing the self-clip it was time to refocus and get my mind straight and set on the next task and reach the next check point.  Dialstone Farm wasn't that far from here but by now each little section was taking its toll mentally.  I needed to just keep going "don't stop until someone tells you too!" that's all I kept repeating to myself "you keep going to the end no matter what!" this was my chant, " I can, I will" became the mantra for the last section.  Amy was brilliant, every time I doubted myself she just told me I was going to finish and I am going to get to the end and she wasn't letting me talk negative which is very important as now any little negativity soon grows into defeat and a breakdown of hope and low spirits and I wasn't going to let that happen, not now!

We were edging our way a long a path on the side of a field as we met rambles who were popping up all over the place, I could sense we weren't far now, runners from the check point were dashing past us, when I say runners I mean support crew sent to find and assist there competitors.  There were a few people gathered at the end of the path where there was to be a change in direction I guessed this was where the check point was going to be, was Chris going to be here, was Olivia and my parents going to be here, who knows just keep moving forward!  I got a glimpse of man that looked my Dad so my spirits were improving and a smile began to appear on my face.  We had a little chat, checked in, and headed towards the van where Chris was waiting ready.  After getting a mashed up version of why they weren't at the last meeting point I sat down for a few minutes and prepared myself for the last leg.  Soup and a sandwich was great, water bottles full, snacks in the bag and we were off.  A quick photo just to show my failing body and exhausted face but positivity was now emerging as I was nearly there.

  My legs were incredibly sore standing up and trying to head off, a quick cuddle from Olivia and said my goodbyes.  I staggered down the road, probably looked like I'd spent a good afternoon at the pub with the way I was moving ha ha!  The last stint, I knew this bit well, which is why it made it harder.
Dragging myself down to Cold Kirkby knowing the trail heading through the fields and leading down a narrow rocky gully like path down into the woods was tough, ankles were sore and aching and blisters, not that I had many, were now beginning to reveal themselves when positioning my feet on stones.  We passed over the stepping stones which was fun and moved along to Rievauxl Abbey.  A beautiful site, but I knew what was coming, a long up hill and a trek through the woods with a nasty end including steep steps down which crippled me then torturously steep steps back up.  Once through the woods it was a steady trail down into Helmsley, Thank God, I was nearly there.  My next apprehensive bit was that I didn't know how to get to the cricket pavilion at the finish, this had been plaguing my mind for a while now.  I didn't care, was the only way to deal with it, just get there and then sort it.  Which is what I did, entering Helmsley there were arrows pointing the way as I'd hoped and then people dotted around cheering the final few in, i.e. me lol!  Although there were a couple behind us approaching a little quicker than I liked.  So I said to Amy, not that I was especially bothered about positioning just finishing was enough, but I wasn't going to be passed on the last 100 yards sorry I am still a competitive type, I said " if I have to do a sprint finish I will, I don't care how much it hurts but I'm not being passed now!" ha ha so the speed increased and I finished to a few cheers and a round of applause.

Chris and Rob were there waiting, congratulating me in with Amy as we made our way to official finish check point.  I received my medal and shirt with strong hand shake from the man himself Jon Steele a legend and honour to be meted at the end by him.  It was over, finished, completed, achieved, accomplished and conquered! I sat down and tried to speak to everyone but the words didn't really make sense, and I quickly had an immense feeling of exhaustion and tiredness, it just hit me it was all quite overwhelming really.  Two years of training, researching, injuries, massages, highs, lows, pain, excitement and a pure desire to achieve the goal I'd set myself of running further than 4 marathons back to back and passing the 100 mile marker I'd put there.  I'd done it!

So, my instant thoughts the next day were, what's next?  How far could I go if actually trained properly ha ha! Will it end, How far is too far????

HARDMOORS 110 - (part 4)

We left the car park before Captain Cook's Monument and headed up the path that takes you to the monument itself, not too much to see as it was pitch black but there it stood a massive imposing dark tower.  We went on past it, remembering my HM55 race where we nearly went the wrong way ha ha!  We were now aiming for Kildale Village Hall where Chris wasn't allowed to meet us due to restrictions and race rules which prohibited race crews from entering the village.  Crossing the moors from the monument was now beginning to become more exposed which in turn meant the weather was starting to turn to the worst.  A light rain in a fierce wind chilling through your bones made the going tough, head torches shining and hoods up the conversation was now limited.  Approaching Kildale meant a long slow down hill into the village, and I don't mean a short track this was a few miles, putting more pressure on already tight and sore quads.  The impact of each step pounding through your body, with your toes crushing at the end of your shoes made this more unpleasant than you wanted at this point in time.

On reaching the check point, I re-stocked on fluids and had a bite to eat.  By this point I was craving Coca-Cola so I couldn't get enough of it, I kept apologising for asking for another cup.  The sugar was getting in to my body and asking for more more more!  We only stayed for 5-10 minutes before I was wanting to be on our way, I didn't want to lose to much time, Osmotherly was the target and short break was awaiting us there.  All I could think about was, having stumbled down a long winding path and road in to Kildale that could only mean its going to be a long and winding road back out of it and going on my memory of the 55 this was to be the case!

This proved to be the hardest section or it was for me.  We were heading towards Blowarth Crossing check point which was just a self-clip but proved to be a massive psychological point to reach.  The road out of Kildale as I remembered was a long slow winding climb which on its own wouldn't be too bad, but after 65-70 miles my legs were feeling it.  Having Rob there was great just a bit of banter and conversation really helps push through the tough times as helps you distract yourself.  The road turned into a path that turned into a rubbley gravel track that was unforgiving, no easy footings and plenty of turned and twisted ankles.  We now had a cold wind blowing hard into our faces with a light rain that just made it unpleasant and hard to look up into.  Our hoods were done up tight and heads were down and we powered on regardless praying for this check point which seemed like it would never arrive!  The track just kept going upwards and head on in to the wind which was by now freezing the front of my body, which actually helped numb the pain in my legs, it was relentless.  I was constantly repeating myself as was so sure I knew the route and kept saying 'I think its up there', 'it can't be far now',' just round the next corner' etc, they weren't lies I think I truly believed it each time which I also think is what helped me get through that section as I was constantly giving myself mini targets to reach.  We eventually got there, managed the clip just as I think Rob's hands were now frozen and off we went, soon to bump into a friendly face, one of the marshals who I recognised.  He wanted us to hold up a minute whilst he took a photograph, the sun was rising and the smiles were back.

We had made the turn and the ferocious wind that had been beating us down was now gone and we were sheltered.  It was such a relief, we took a moment to look at the beautiful views as oranges and pinky reds came over the hills then we pressed on towards Clay Bank were Chris and Amy would be waiting after there sneaky nap!

Hardmoors 110 (part3)

Yes there's more, I feel I need to do it justice and write a detailed report as this was such a monumental accomplishment for me personally and a milestone I will always look back to and say wow! That was what I had trained and worked towards for 2 years.

On approaching Saltburn as mentioned earlier this was to be quite a psychological boost as in my head that's all I had allowed myself think about regarding major goals and distances then breaking that down into smaller chunks where the check points were to make it much more achievable and not overwhelming.  I arrived 2 hours ahead of the cut-off which was brilliant, I was dead chuffed as I knew I would need this time in the up coming night section.  I met Chris he was parked in a separate carpark just away from the check point so once I had notified them of my arrival I proceeded to the van and rested up for 10 mins and refuelled.  I was excited now as I knew I had passed my first test, no injuries that was the big one, feet were ok no soreness or major blistering, no rubbing and no health issues.  We were ahead of time and feeling good, I now realised if I could get through the night section without any hiccups I might actually finish this race!

So all kitted up, jacket on and head torch shining the way off I went.  Although it wasn't easy getting up again from having a little sit down and rest, the legs were now getting sore and tight, my quads were feeling it.  I went off past the check point and typically straight up some steps which were starting to get to me mentally as I just didn't want to see any more ha ha!  After passing that little test it was time to get the directions out as I couldn't work out the next bit but luckily a couple of other runners were heading out too.  We went through what seemed to be a park and under a viaduct then after that it just became passageways and a few housing estates before hitting another trail which I assumed would take me to Slapewath Pub carpark where I was meeting the others and Rob was going to join me.  This was where we had a slight problem, the timing of meeting up was going to be close as Chris had needed to go to Osmotherly and pick them up and then return in time to meet me, I had given him 2 hours but in reality I was only an hour and a half so what was going to happen mmmm!

I ran down a path turning a corner knowing there was a main road and I wasn't far.  There was a number of cars and vans all parked up and I could make out a pub in the distance, this was it, were they here or was I going to have to wait for them.   I had said to Chris I would give them 10 minutes before leaving and then would have to meet them at Captain Cooks Monument.  Literally as was surveying the area the blue van pulled in further down the road as was heading towards me, wow the relief was amazing.  It was a definite boost just to see the others and have a bit of banter.  After getting re-stocked and re-fuelled Rob and myself headed off down the road leaving the other two and preparing for the night shift!

It was great to have someone with me now, as it was the night time, it always seems that little bit more lonely, so to have someone to run alongside and have conversation with was going to make it a much more pleasant experience.  We were heading up to High Cliff Nab through Guisborough Woods which I had always been slightly apprehensive about as its easy to get lost in here I really didn't want that to happen and hold us up.  Fortunately the same two ladies from earlier were still in our radar and between us we all managed to keep on the right track.  Roseberry Topping was the target, I loved it now as I knew the route from here so mentally I could keep ticking off visually land marks.  The bad side to knowing the route well is that you know exactly what it is to come.  My short term goal was Roseberry with a slight desire to get to Chris and Amy at Captain Cooks Monument.  As the darkness became pitch black, and the temperature get dropping we knew we were going to be in for a long night.  The paths were easy to move on and weren't too wet and slippy as had been previously when I done them.  We had Roseberry in our sights and in awe of the people already there, the spectacular sight of all the little mini head torches flickering like fire flies up the Topping.  We approached it and as I warned Rob we first had to go down a tretcherous path before the base of the climb.  This proved ok, a little slippy but I coped ok I was just getting ready for the tough climb and the increase in heat rate and hoping I could contain the nautious feeling I had experienced earlier.  As we climbed I had to keep taking mini breaks just allow my heart rate to keep dropping, then pushing on passing the other runners heading back down.  We reached the peak in decent time just to hand my number over, turn round, and head back down.  Slipping and sliding trying not get my feet stuck or trapped as a little trip or fall here would probably mean the end of the race for you.  Off we went, CC monument was next on the list and I felt like we had just ticked off a fairly major part of my race.  Feeling good and happy with where I was at we had a liitle run where it flattened off before the steep decent into the car park for the check point.  It was great to get here as psychologically I felt it wasn't far now we were nearing the major cut-off in good time.  Chris informed us that we had lost nearly an hour on that section we amazed me as felt like we had done ok but it was a great reality check and meant it was important to not to get complacent.  Now I firmly had my sights on reaching Osmotherly in good time and seeing Olivia and my parents, we just had to get past Kildale and push on.  We said our goodbyes to the other two as it was now going to be some time before we say them again, Chris was ready for some sleep and rest as his part of this adventure was also tiring maybe not in the same way but still tiring mentally.  To Oz!

Hardmoors 110 (part 2)

This part of the route I had done a couple of times already so I was happy to get cracking.  The track led me back to the cliff top path and along the trail from the New Years Day 30.  By this point I had done 22 miles and just had 4 miles to go to the next check point in Robin Hoods Bay but we had decided that we weren't going to meet up here mainly due to the traffic congestion and its only 4 miles, the decision was made to meet at Sandsend.  This soon became a problem as I set off and left everyone I was just mulling through the next section and thinking about Whitby and how easy it would be to get lost and lose valuable time so I thought I'd have a look again at the route description and that was where it turned into a mini panic.  The route description, we hadn't swapped as I was only carrying the current section so as not to carry more than I needed.  Mmmm dilemma what should I do, carry on and risk it and try following someone else or ring Chris quickly and get him to meet me at Robin Hoods Bay. I rang Chris, had a quick giggle as we'd stuffed up and then proceeded to meet him in 4 miles time.  The Sun was starting to take hold a become quite strong, increasing my body temperature and sweat ratio so I needed to make sure I was consuming enough liquid to keep up with it.  The paths so far had been rock hard, the complete opposite to what I was expecting really as it had only been dry for a few days and previous to that we had down pour after down pour, yet no real signs of it as it was so exposed.  This made good footing but hard ground so my feet suffered slightly but moving was better than it would have been if boggy and wet.

Running in to RHB I knew what was to come, once I had done a few steps, more steps, I was fast approaching the long up hill through the heart of RHB this was going to hurt! I slogged it out, up the main road passing all the tourists, bars, and smelling the wif of fish and chips drifting up past me!  I past a number a of people who gave comments like 'you should be running up here ha ha!', 'the others ran up here!' and 'come on even I could run up this lol!'  yes yes thanks for all the encouragement but for anyone who hasn't run up this road or should I say walked up this road it is steep and your heart is in your mouth.  Try it one day!  I got to the top and past the pub and hotel on the right which I knew meant I was close, I then spied Chris ambling down the road to meet me brilliant I was there!  We walked up to the check point together, me still gasping for air and pushing my legs hard and Chris reeling off a few stories of some other runners that weren't looking to good or who had pulled out for one reason or another.  All good food for thought over the next few miles increasing my positive mentality to progression and the fact we'd got this far and had no problems yet others had.  I was now definitely in with a shout, I just had to keep up my pace and hitting or beating my targets.

Off I went, Whitby was in my sights now and the 'THE STEPS!'  The steps coming down from the Abbey in to the town.  I soon approached the Abbey on the dry mud cliff top path passing the visitors and dog walkers, I currently had another runner in front of me that I was trying to keep up with or at least keep in my sights as it happens what I didn't know was I would constantly passing or being passed by this girl for the entire race.  We hobbled down the steps, although I think we went down the very old step path as opposed to the new steps as I didn't recognise it but it was just as brutal.  So carefully placing my feet on each cobbled step I got to the bottom and quickly set off searching for this girl I was trying to follow.  I kept the route description handed as at any time I may lose her.  Then it happened my nightmare, I'd lost her aaarrrggghhh!!   With route description out and a few lucky guesses I found the path and kept on.

After getting round the coast and meeting Olivia and my parents at Sandsend which again was great such a boost seeing them and having a few laughs before heading off to Runswick Bay.  This was another superb section as after numerous steps (again) and bumping into Matthew one of my clients, we got to run across the beach which was just stunning, the bad news unbeknown to me was what was waiting at the end of the beach to take us up to the carpark.  The path was brutal, my heart rate went through the roof and I soon began to feel ill.  I reached Chris at the checkpoint and tried to eat and drink but vomiting wasn't far off, this wasn't good as I needed energy and fast!  The plan now was to meet Chris at Staithes before my main target of Saltburn, with Sun out at full strength and beating down on me this was becoming tough.  Only another hour or so of this heat before it starts dropping in temperature.  Passing through Staithes I was with a couple of other runners but I decided to take a little time out once I met Chris, then headed off in the direction of Skinnygrove.  The route took us along the beach as the sun dropped, snaking through the dunes.  The sand spilling over the edges of my trainers, good training for the MdS this I kept thinking, each step becoming tougher and tougher through the soft sand.  The temperature was dropping and the light nearly gone, I was waiting before putting the head torch on as I was trying to saver the batteries as long as possible.
 The beautiful coastline made it easier to
run this magnificent run, I'm glad we had sunshine and not rain!

This was a brutal climb after what we'd done so far, my lungs were bursting and my heart was in my mouth.  Timely rest as just had to take a couple of pics! ha ha honest!