(This picture is of me having just won the 6633 Extreme Ultra Marathon in the Arctic 352 miles non-stop)
Over the last few days I have been packing, unpacking, repacking, unpacking, repacking trying to fit everything I think I may need for The Spine Race into my drop back and work out the best way to put all the compulsory items plus a few extra bits in to my pack, it’s not been easy but finally I believe I’ve cracked it!!
Training has gone well and my ankle appears to be holding up OK. My last long run was along the North Downs Way, not particularly fast but I was practicing my map reading, taking bearings and getting used to my GPS. You can imagine with all the rain we have had how wonderful and muddy it was, perfect conditions for the Pennine Way.
On the return leg I spotted two men and a dog in the field putting away their tent, of course I stopped to chat to them and discovered that they were walking the length of the NDW over two years, they would do sections as and when they could fit it in. It made me laugh that I considered it quite normal to be camping in the pouring rain and mud!
I returned to the car feeling very positive and excited about the race; I even rang HWMBO to share my happiness (not sure he was quite as excited as me though!) I love runs like that it makes you feel happy all day.
Tomorrow (thursday) I head up north for the start of the race on Saturday. Friday afternoon I’m doing a Masterclass which will include tips on the race, navigation reminders and a few other bits and pieces, essential for me as I haven’t been able to get up and do any recces.
I’m under NO illusions about the difficulty of this event. I’m looking at it as an adventure rather than a race as it’s about managing yourself properly, getting enough sleep but keeping yourself moving. As always I have a plan this is only a guide but helps keep me motivated; my primary goal is to get to the finish line. Just in case you didn’t know The Spine Race is a 268 mile non-stop race along the Pennine Way starting at Edale and finishing in Kirk Yetholm. There are 5 CP’s which vary in distance from 52km to 100km!
To follow the progress of the runners you can do so by going to The Spine Race as well as get updates on the race. (this will keep The Old Bag happy!)
Wishing all the competitors whether doing the full Spine Race or the Challenger a great race and run strong.
