Last race in the Runfurther series 2014

Believe it or not I have run the Round Rotherham 50 miler 4 times now! I first turned up in 2010 as it was in the Runfurther series. I had very little idea of what to expect despite having printed off the strip maps and the 'normal' maps. The strip maps are a special if not unique feature of this race. They make navigation very simple and work very well, although if you were to astray you could have big problems relocating (as Fraser and I did one one section a few years ago).

I am not great at broken sleep and so take our van rather than the offer of the sports hall floor. It is a well attended event with walkers or slower runners off at 6am, runners at 7am and relay teams an hour later. Although we start in the dawn it is fairly well lit for the first few miles and so few bother with head torches.

Smart shirts Thanks fastrax!

We had our Runfurther meeting on Friday night and then fell into bed at about 10. I slept well but was conscious that it was mild! The overnight rain had stopped and I awoke to hear Andy and Dick banging in the flags. Registration was simple and I soon had time to catch up with friends.  I did not have great expectations for my run this year.

Andy and the fast men

The last 3 years had seen me get progressively faster with a ladies win in a respectable time last year. My achilles was sore, the haematoma has not gone and my body felt tired. Still, you cannot drive that far, start and not make a decent effort. I had hoped to wear Hokas but the rain and fear of mud made me change my mind.
After a short briefing and instruction to use the bridge not the level crossing near the end we were off. A flat start on tarmac cycle tracks and pavements means speed. It is hard not to get dragged along although a quick pit stop in the bushes meant I lost sight of many friends for a while.

 By Elsecar I had caught up with Dick and Emma but not Andy or Nick.

The slopes after the railway were slippery and I was glad I had some grip on my shoes. As we entered Wentworth I spotted Nick up ahead and used this to pull me on.

We ran together towards Kepplers Column a huge local monument and then down into Grange Park. I was not hungry or thirsty yet so just grabbed some banana and ran on.

I ran on after grabbing a piece of banana

The next bit is the least attractive of the route as you drop to a main road, take a narrow littered path to the canal and head a kilometre or so to Tinsley.  It is deprived and rundown and industrial but soon passes and makes me glad I live and work elsewhere! This is nearly 15 miles and I was still catching walkers who had set off an hour earlier as we ducked under the M1 and emerged onto redeveloped land. Getting under Sheffield Parkway seemed more overgrown than usual but the next 2km is pleasant by the river and means we are nearly at the cricket ground CP. I grabbed some more to eat and headed off past the reclaimed land where Orgreave Pit used to be and then over a road and into more semi-rural land towards an impressive railway viaduct. Rother Valley park should be a nice section and a celebration of 20 miles completed but somehow for me it is always a low point for my body, in fact Nick once found me in tears there. I kept moving this year but it was a hobble with sore achilles. It was also getting very warm and unbelievably humid. I do not sweat much but today it was pouring off me. Oh well, keep plodding as it is not far to Harthill and half way. Things become more rural with grassy paths, fields and woods. Then after passing under the M1 it is up in to Woodall and some gentle uphill fields to the next CP. I was sure I had a cup of tea here last year but today had to make do with water and jam sandwiches. Andy was apparently about 20 minutes ahead somebody told me. I needed a rest but knew that getting going again would hurt. I must have looked a sorry sight as I wormed my way out through a car park full of relay runners waiting for the change-over. We are now definitely in the countryside and I wandered what the arable fields would be like. I had forgotten to top my water up and ran out. Not good on such a warm day. Fortunately the fields were much less muddy than I have seen them before, less skiddy and had bits of straw and crops in for better traction. I watched a small plane take off at the grass airfield and prayed that the unofficial CP after the canal locks had water. They did. One day I will explore the pretty hamlet and the locks here, but not today. The water helped and I headed off to Woodsetts at a slow but steady pace. This CP is my favourite and I re-fueled with soup, tea and more. One runner was dropping out here and as I got up to hobble to the loo I did wonder if I should be continuing. This time it was really tough getting going again. Relay runners were starting to fly by now but each one was friendly and encouraging. I was also catching up some runners who had perhaps set off too fast. there was still no sign of Andy and I spent almost the whole race waiting for Emma to trot past me. Again I ran out of water but managed to beg some from the kiosk in the park and enjoyed my run through the woods. Passing people is always good for morale. I was reluctant to stop at Firbeck and so did not eat enough and missed the savoury treats on offer there. I now had company and several of us took turns to run off ahead, be caught, use the others to catch up ... repeat again and again. It kept us going.

Roche Abbey looked attractive in the afternoon sunshine and I caught and overtook a couple more people. 61km done and turn to the last page of strip maps! The 5km to Maltby passed quite nicely and it is on grass or small paths. At this CP I knew I needed to eat but could not stomach what they had on offer. I knew it was a bad idea but I pushed on anyway.I would have killed for a pizza or meat pie. My climb up through Maltby was pathetic but I managed to pick up once we left the tarmac, plus I spotted Splatcher ahead now. I didn't really feel like it but slurped some gel and water and cracked on. I refused to let Andy pull ahead and tracked him and a distance. It got me through Micklebring and under the M18. Climbing the stiles there was painful but my body was grateful for the sugar of the gel and I caught Andy in the next field. We muttered how tough it was to each other and I tried to push on. I had more gel and slowly reeled in a couple more runners as we crossed the ploughed fields and kale to Firsby Hall farm. The rutted stone track down to Hooton Roberts was not as bad as I remembered and neither was the climb out of the village. I passed Sharon here and knew Old Denaby was not far. A herd of shaggy cows guarded the gate at the top of the lane but luckily they all moved when I slammed the gate and they did not chase me down the field to the last CP. I was now an hour behind last year's time but at least I thought I would finish. I cursed them closing the level crossing and swore at the steps up and down the footbridge. The canal and river paths are good and only 5km to the end. We skirt the edge of Swinton, follow the remains of a bit of canal and then head over open land on good paths and cycle track to the sports centre. The last bit is easy to run as you can see the floodlights on the sports pitches and know the end is close.  There is always a small crowd at the finish and a lovely lady finding us bags for muddy shoes and doing waitress service with cups of tea! As I sat and tried to ignore my throbbing achilles Nigel appeared. He had completed his grand slam and so was understandably happy. Then Emma finished so her grand slam was secure too. Well done to the two of them. Andy finished as we were sat chatting and he looked more wrecked than me.  I moved indoors for food but then missed the prize giving by going for a very welcome and much needed shower. It was good to chat with Nick and others but I was tired and needed to drive home before I felt too wiped out so I missed Dick. The winning ladies this year were only just over 8 hours so great runs by them.

Cannot believe how happy I look. Well done Emma. (ta Nigel)

I arrived home to find cars all over the place and what seemed like hundreds of young people wanting a party. I eventually got the van on the drive without running anyone over or hitting the car. I was glad I had showered earlier and could go to bed with minimum effort. I was more dehydrated than I had realised and could not figure out why I felt like I had a hangover.

Runfurther 2013 2014 (thanks Nigel for spotting that error) series complete and I think we have done a good job of keeping the ultra series going. Only a few days and we can announce next years races.

The RAB MM

This nearly did not happen as both Bob and I felt so trashed earlier in the week. By Wednesday we were definitely not going. Bob had a heavy cold and I felt wiped out after the UTMB, LDMT and H60, plus my achilles really hurt. I even tried to sell my entry on two forums. By Thursday we were thinking about it again and on Friday evening we packed. At this stage I guess we knew we would drive up on Saturday morning unless there was torrential rain or worse. The forecast was quite good.We knew there would be lots of friends there and after all you do not have to run hard or competitively do you? Ha ha.

The view from the toilets!

Luckily it was only just over an hours drive from home and the 'open' start window made it easy to just turn up. By the time we had registered we had bumped into Tony, Albert, Mark, Stewart and many more. My pack was over 5.5kg but did not feel that heavy. Bob and I wished each other luck and went our separate ways. I walked to the start with Chris V which was great until I realised I was so busy chatting that I had not started my watch until after I marked up the map. marking up the map seemed to cause me more brain ache than was reasonable and I was unsure how much time to estimate it had taken. Within the first few hundred metres Chris BH and partner came past me but I knew I would not stay with them for long. The pack seemed to split into two - those heading north around the edge of the map and those going west up and over, down, up and over etc.I am not very good at score events and either dither for ages or make a decision and then think everyone else will have made a better one. Today I decided to make a decision, stick to it and not to worry about what else I might have done. The first control was easy and there were about 6 of us together. I used this to spur me to run harder on the next leg. Chris gallantly held up a river fence debris catcher (what do you call them?) and I kept up almost to the next control. Now it was decision time. I headed SW and then got caught in the confusion of tracks and OoB in the valley bottom. It worked out OK but was a long way over rough ground to the next high point and then there was still another valley to cross. At this point I was sure I had made a mistake. The OoB was even worse in Longsleddale. I found my way to the more northerly access point but wondered how many would cheat and use the marked track through the OoB. As I hit the road in the valley bottom I had to decide left or right. Right was closer but a mistake as the big track would have been faster. Still I made it to the ridge and got my 40 point control. Things were looking up, especially as the next one was 30 points. I was pleased with my nav and looking forward to some better running now I was off the tussocks and steep slopes and on big bridleways down into Kentmere. I thought I was on my own but just as I entered the village I heard voices and found Sabrine V plus partner and Richard D passing me. I tried to keep up and did as they hesitated at the Garburn track. We climbed together to the next control and then they all shot off. The next high point control was on Troutbeck tongue but that seemed too far for me so I headed for the Kentmere horseshoe path. It had been  thick mist and drizzling for a little while but now the wind got up too. Just as I was losing my sense of humour Albert and Tony appeared.

A chat with them and a bit of company soon cheered me up; plus Tony was suffering even more than I was. We found the pond from Shane's promotional video and began the tricky decent to Kentmere reservoir. It was steep, rocky and the grass was wet. Not my favourite slope. it also split the side of my shoes. The climb to the enormous boulder was fine but the big climb to the ridge top was an effort. By now they knew they would be late and I thought I might be.  I toyed with trying to claim an extra control but decided against it. A lovely run down the ridge path soon saw me at the top of the final gully. This was steep too but as there was no rock I overtook many and made good time. I should have gone for the other control as well. I said I was hopeless at score events. A quick blast down the final track and I was back with almost half an hour to spare.A longer look at the map and a check with wiser folk showed that I should have gone round the north of the map anyway. Still I was back in time and in one piece. Later that evening I was disappointed to find slower runners had beaten me but pleased that I was first equal FV. I met Bob and was shown to where the gang were camping.

You cannot be in SELOC if you don't smile

Bob, Mark, Tony, Julie, Albert, Chris V, Splatcher and daughter, Steve Wilson and Peter.... all clustered together and Stewart, Kevan and others not far away. I was tired putting up the tent and relieved when Bob went to collect me some water. Drink and food revived me and I ambled off to find more friends and to collect more water. The stream was very low and I found a small swimming creature in the bottom of my next cup of tea! I spent most of the evening eating, drinking chatting and lying down.

 It was windy and cool but stayed dry. Well before it was dark I had been to the loo and battened down the hatches. I might have been cool when I went to bed but before long I was toasty and shedding layers. My trusty neoair is a worthwhile luxury with great insulation and relief for tired hips. I had planned a small lie in but in the end I was up at 6 and could easily have been ready to run by 7am. I faffed a bit and set off for the start around 7.30 only to discover that I had no idea where my dibber was. Panic! quick unpacking of sack and search of tent and there it was. Phew.
Along with many others I had spent some time trying to guess a sensible route for today but without control values or knowing exactly which ones would be active this was hard. Then at the start line we were informed one of the ways through the OoB was now shut. I left the campfield and turned right- this was downhill! I decided to get as many of the western controls as I dared and plan on the hoof. This was fine for the first 6 but then tiredness crept in and the realisation that staying there could make me late or would lead to running back on the A6. I hated the idea of that road run and so binned some precious points and added in a load of climb, but at least it was more satisfying. Bumping into Hanno and Colin sat debating their route cheered me and I stopped for a chat.

We should have collected the 30 pointer but they like me were stressed by the OoB and worried about being late back. The climb up out of Longsleddale was steep and long but the two controls were fairly easy to find. The cluster towards the finish were on big features but I could not see which order would be best and this was made more complicated by being undecided about getting an extra control if there was time.

Thanks to Steve Burt for most of these photos

I bumped into Bob at the second of these controls and told him I was heading back next. I then realised that I had stuffed up the timing and was going to be 90 minutes early so I started to go for the extra control. Stumbling across tussocks had me doubting this plan and the fact it was only worth 10 points set my mind. I said bye to Hanno and Colin and turned back. Lots of pointless running but never mind. I made it back with half an hour to spare so perhaps I might have made it in time with 10 extra points. Who knows? It had been a frustrating day and those on the short had just as many points. After download I spotted Bob, Julie and Splatcher eating. I joined them for a great chilli stew, cake and lots of tea. The car was not far and it was good to get changed and have dry feet. we wandered back for more tea and met Hanno, Tony and others. Results were put up and it seemed despite an indifferent run I had managed first female vet on the long score. We sat outside with Sarah, Kate and Kirsty for the prize giving and laughed as Shane and Charlie tried to work out all the category winners. I even managed a quick chat with Nick and Claire. For me it didn't matter this year but I was pleased to see Shane give prizes for solo (as well as pairs rather than combined). He had not known it was any other way in the past and felt solo deserved credit for the extra effort of going it alone. Kirsty had a great run and becomes a vet next year so we will have to run better if we want to win again. I bumped into Sue hands and Helena several times over the weekend- I just hope I can still enjoy Mms for as many years as them.  All in all a great weekend and I was glad we made the effort even if it will not have helped my achilles.

Hardmoors 60

A weekend away with Bob on the Yorkshire coast this time. Driving the van to Guiseborough on Friday night meant I did not have to get up early and feel travel sick after a coach ride from Filey. We pulled up around 9pm and found others with the same idea. A quick chat followed by hot chocolate and then bed. We slept well and so were up in plenty of time to help Jon and Shirley with registration and kit checks.

It was decidedly dull, slightly damp and about 10 degrees cooler than Lancashire so I was faffing about what to wear. The haematoma was still as bad so I wore the shin guards again. The coach was a little late so Jon's briefing and the start were put back a short while but by 8.15 we were herded out onto the lane.

Jon worryingly had a pistol to start the race. It did not fire at first but persistence paid off.

 I was determined not to set off too fast but...... I got pulled along and after the climb to High Cliff nab it seemed OK.

I should have realised and slowed down when I dropped Martin D but I was happy to catch Katie and Heather and show some new to the event the way. I was chatting happily and it was only when I arrived at Vista Mar Saltburn as first lady that I worried. It had been wetting out the mist all the way but I had not realised how wet we were. I did not feel the need for food yet (perhaps my second mistake) and so I shot straight through the CP and down to the sea front.

 I was looking forward to the run along the cliffs as this first bit has few of the slippy steps that we would meet later. It wasn't long before the effects of the early pace were felt and I was unable to run relatively gentle sections on the cliffs to Skinningrove. Damn. The girls went past as did several others. I ploughed on to Staithes the best I could and enjoyed the views and a very brief chat with Boris as he ran by. Heading up the steep cobbled road out of the village I spotted Bob. We all had a minor nav crisis near Port Musgrave but arrived in Runswick Bay unscathed. I was desperate for a cup of tea and a bit down when first they could not locate my drop bag, then there was no tea and then I did not fancy any food I could see. I set off before things could get worse but should clearly have been eating something by now. Luckily Bob had experimented with some tiny refillable bottles and I had one with a mix of two gels and a splash of water. being able to just have a mouthful or so was good. I did also manage a small bit of a Chia bar. In the dark on the H110 I had a nightmare on the beach looking for the ravine but today it was easy and we were soon on our way to Sandsend.

John K came past with his ever present smile and I tried to use him as a tow and concentrated on putting negative thoughts behind me. I was getting upset and for no apparent reason kept thinking of my dad. There was no CP here today  but a lovely surprise awaited me. Bob had parked along the prom and had a cup of tea waiting. I must have looked a state as I climbed into the van and slumped in the chair. I was worried Mick and Lorraine would run by but I had to stop and regroup. The tea and breathing space got me more positive and I set off at a bit of a hobble towards Whitby. I dislike running through the town as you have to dodge all the tourists and so it was a relief to find the Abbey steps, even the bottom of them. The new CP after the campsite was stocked with coke and I tried some- anything to get some fluid and fuel. It was better than I had hoped. I ran most of the next section alone but that was fine. I was not moving fast but forward progress was better than nothing. John V had a CP in the top carpark at Robin Hood's Bay and I had more coke and some watermelon. Sections with greasy uneven steps were becoming a nightmare and Boggle Hole lived up to my worst expectations. Before Ravenscar Martin D passed me going at a nice steady plod. You'd think I would learn.

I was starting to suffer by Ravenscar and it was good to see Bob again. I changed my socks but despite tape my ankle bone had rubbed raw again and it was all too damp for tape to stick. I tried to eat but had hoped for pizza like on the H110. I just did not fancy food. I felt churlish and manahed a small piece of cake and some fruit. Bob made me another cup of tea. I felt bad being so grumpy, especially as Sarah and Andy had given up their day to marshall. Leaving the hall I suddenly l felt very cold and had to stop to put my cag on. Probably further evidence that I was low on fuel. The greasy descents slowed me further and I was convinced others would soon catch me. Why didn't I just feel good that they had not done so yet? Climbing out of Hayburn Wyke I got warmer and had the sense to spot the weather was dry now and so changed out of a wet shirt. A bit late for all the rub sores on my torso but nevermind. I tried to lift the pace a bit as I knew Scarborough was not far. At this point I knew I was not going to beat my time from 2012 so all I could do was limit the loss.  I have an issue with my right foot which may well be Morton's neuroma. It sounds daft but is very painful. By Scarborough it was certainly making itself felt.  This town is always my low point. Apologies to those who live or come from there.  The flat wide prom should be easy to run round but I walked almost all of it, and it is miles. I barely raised a jog as I approached the CP at the Spa. Kelly looked understandable concerned as I collapsed into a chair and managed 3 small pieces of fruit and 1/3 of a cup of tea. I decided sitting there would not help and it was getting chilly. I also hoped that once past this town I would feel better. Well you can hope. Actually I did feel a bit better and made good tiime out onto the road above Cayton Cliff. I stopped and found my head torch and raised my spirits with the knowledge we did not have to drop all the way down to the landslip and climb back up this year. Here I was joined by two blokes who were uncertain of the way. We stuck together and I raised my pace and navigated us back to the cliff path and the camp sites. I could not keep up for ever but it was a start. I could see their torches ahead and tried not to let the gap grow. Less than ten miles. how bad can it be. Very ..when every step makes your toes hurt and you squeal. In my mind after the second campsite we are nearly there. Not so. You can see the lights of Filey but head out towards the Brigg. Here I caught up one of the blokes again. He was suffering too. I could hear the sea and so guessed the tide was in? I opted for the steps and not the beach. I think next time I will risk wet feet. Anyone watching me descend, climb and descend steps at this point must have had a good laugh.  Suddenly we were not only on the prom but the turning up into town was there. Finishing at the school this year cut about a mile of the race and in my state I was not complaining. I stomped up the steep hill the best i could, spotted the church and managed a jog to the finish. Then I collapsed on the stairs, received all sorts of goodies from Jon plus a hug from Bob.

 Bob gallantly went off to get me a towel, clean clothes etc and I tried to lie down. H55 all over again, although this time I lay on chairs not the floor and did stay awake.

A shower made improvement but I was trashed and did not feel like food. I must sort this out. It is not like me to turn down any food.

 All I wanted to do was go to bed. So after some quick Thank Yous we walked to the van , drove to the layby just beyond the school and I fell into bed. In a way mission complete. I had done the H55, H110 and H60 so I had completed the Triple Ring. I was pleased with my T shirt and trophies plus I love my hoody. I also was 4th female on the H60 and first V40 or V50 so not too bad I guess. Mick never did catch me up and Lorraine retired. I was exactly an hour slower than 2012 whereas martin D managed the same time again.

LDMT

Those in the know will realise that this is the Lake District Mountain Trial and as last years was abandoned in awful weather 2014 would become the 60th race. This time the weather was kind and we collected on the King George V playing fields in Patterdale bright and early. We had mid starts so the place was already buzzing when we arrived and parked. I managed to catch up with a few friends between toilet queues, registration and kit check. I didn't feel too bad considering the UTMB was only a fortnight ago (and that feeling lasted until I was trying to run far or fast). My haematoma was still rather big and squishy so I wore the calf guards again but was pleased when a physio said using the leg was good.
Leaving the assembly we ran up the lane to collect our maps and then up and up onto Birks. Charlie Sproson shot off and I tried to gain places on some and not lose places at all. It was an easy control with marshalls on the path. Then came a huge decision. I am not great at this and can dither for ages and then still believe that everyone else has made a better choice than me. I opted for down into Grisedale and tried to plan the next bit en route, which was hard as I kept wondering if over St Sunday would have been better. Struggling up to the Hole in the Wall I was sure I had got it wrong (and counting contours now suggests I did climb more than necessary) but was not confident of using Nethermost Cove. I tried to see who else had come my way and was relieved to see Dorothy Pelly. The weather was dryish but the cloud was low and it was wetting as we climbed. I had hoped that from the foot of Swirral Edge I could cut across to the col and drop south of Whiteside but in the mist I lost my bottle and went up and up. I met a cold, wet and confused Rowena and we set off for CP2 together. Again I made a poor choice going NW rather than N to the col with Whiteside which had been my original plan. I think  this would have been a grassier descent. A quick look at the map showed that leg 2-3 would be a flog but similar in reverse to a leg on the SLMM earlier this summer. It was a traverse with some steep stream gullies on the way. Fortunately I was with Rowena, Albert and Josie now and we kept each other moving at a decent pace and overtook Tony V and Mark S. The climb out of the control was shortish but steep and my legs were now complaining big style that this was far too soon after the Alps. At the top the others had vanished but despite the mist I knew where I wanted to go to pick up a brilliant grassy trod that would lead me most of the way to CP4 via Hart Side. Dropping down to the control from that summit took longer than I had hoped as it was further and more tussocky than I expected. The next leg had route choice again and I started well. I could see Albert and Rowena up ahead for a bit and then Alison appeared for a chat. The contouring path at the head of Glencoynedale was fine but at the mine waste I changed my plan and regretted it. Alison and I did jungle war fare along a fence line and then had to cross Glenridding Beck and climb. Others dropped further but at least had the path. I reckon  should have stuck to my plan of a short climb to Stang and then a contour with a small decent. Ah well. I was by now trashed and the rocky path was torture for my feet. I had also forgotten to take my ankles so my Fellraisers had made a nice slice below the ankle bone. I did not run well down the valley but could not persuade my body to make more effort. Kirsty shot by but I had nothing left. The final CP was straightforward although the 1:40,000 map is tricky to read in the detailed valley areas. Even running down the steep tarmac road was an effort. It was good to sit at the pavilion and drink many cups of water whilst comparing splits and routes with others. The food from Podium Catering was excellent and I had a chat with Peter and Maurice while I waited for Bob. In the end I did not do too badly as 5th lady on the Medium course and 2nd V50 , plus i walked away with a voucher and a very nice 60th engraved tumbler.

The UTMB

I am now almost ashamed to admit this now but my entry was close to an accident. I had all the points and somebody suggested I should use them as after all it was a lottery and I was unlikely to get a place anyway. I had serious reservations about the event. I am not a fan of big races. I prefer low key events and hate ones with big bands etc at the finish. The idea of hundreds of pole wielding continentals had me annoyed- and that was before the start line.

So, I entered and got an entry. I was very pleased and decided to embrace all that it was about and make the most of the experience. My husband even bought me a set of poles for my birthday in May. As it turned out my preparation could hardly have been worse. Family matters meant almost no long runs after the SLMM and then on the one day I managed to fit in a big long run I came to grief. I arrived home early and covered in blood and war wounds. I still cannot explain what persuaded me to run the old Fiensdale route or how I came to fall so badly given that I was not even racing. A broken nose and cracked cheek bone were the least of my worries. I smashed my mouth which ended up some beautiful colours- but at least my teeth stayed in tact. My lower legs and one elbow took the worst and I was seriously worried about my left leg and whether I could run that far.

Still despite looking and feeling weird it did not hurt and the muscles all seemed to work OK. The guy that sold me the trendy calf compression things in Chamonix clearly thought I was a lunatic but hey what does he know!

I set myself some conservative goals. Bronze- not to DNF, Silver to get under 40 hours and Gold to beat 39 hours.
Chamonix in fete mode was irresistible once the rain stopped on Tuesday lunch time. We moved onto the Greppon carpark and I registered on Wed as soon as I could. There was a bit of a queue but it was sunny and we chatted. I was keen to get the whole thing started. We wandered the 'salon' of chalets and picked up loads of leaflets for other events and checked out loads of gear that was different to that available in the UK.

Once registered of course it was easy to spot who else was waiting in eager anticipation for Friday tea time and our start. I met up with Mick and Tom on Thursday as they registered and shared their excitement and a quick meal in town before dashing off to meet Bob who had been up exploring the Aiguille d'midi and Mer de Glace without me. I tried to relax on Friday but a lie in seemed impossible and I went for a train ride with Bob.

He was experimenting with how long the cycle ride from Vallorcine to Trient and back would take. we met some Malaysians on the train and everyone was excited. I lazed around, ate, drank and read. I desperately wanted it to be late afternoon. Once Bob and I had eaten another giant ice cream we walked into town and dropped off my drop bag and made our way to the start. It was crowded but I found Mick and Tom and also bumped into Nicky Spinks, Shelli and numerous others.

 On the start line we gabbled away as nerves took over. Then the weather forecast came true and the drizzle started. Then it rained and got heavier.

 Ok, time for cags. In retrospect I was over cautious. It took almost 5 minutes from crossing the timing strip to getting running. Next time I will start nearer the front or drop right to the back and cross the bar only when I can run- but hey what's 5 minutes in all the hours that were to come. The count down was shouted out by all of us and then we were off. As it was I was swept away on a tide of runners through the town, probably faster than was sensible. The route to Les Houches was undulating but easy running and the speed quite fast. I stopped to take my cag off as I was melting and before long I spotted the dammed river and the train station. Running up the hill into the village I was aware that Mandy had just passed me and then I spotted Bob taking photos.

I shouted Hi and hoped he didn't expect me to stop. The rain had now almost stopped for the time being and I ploughed on through the village with no thoughts of re-fuelling so soon. I did grab some jelly babies but that was it. Climbing the road and then track to the ski tows I met Tom and then the rain came again. Runners were still bunched in quite a mass where  was in the race as we climbed the Col de Voza but dropping off the other side started to lengthen things out.

 The descent was wet, grassy and quite uneven on the piste. The fell runners loved it and we whooped down. It is rare that I overtake men these days so I enjoyed it. St Gervais was wet. I remember a big tent and grabbing some noodle soup and a bit of cake before running off again. Within minutes I thought perhaps I should use my poles now that we were more spread out. Wet hands and wet poles meant I needed the help of some spectators but they were only too pleased to oblige and I set off along the road for Les Contamines.

The poles did help me set a rhythm and were good for balance on the ups. I had only once been stabbed by another set of poles although I had shouted 'attention les batons' a few times. It was still raining here bit I stopped for water, soup and some bread. Either here or the next stop- I cannot now remember the water taste odd and I poured it away. It maybe that my stomach issues stemmed from here?

Somewhere on the route through Notre Dame les Gorges the rain stopped but not before we were treated to a true mud fest in the dark. I had been worried enough by the rain to invest in some goretex Speedcross and up until now was happy with them. The mud however was in danger of swamping them! Climbing to the Chalet de le Balme the rain stopped entirely and the path got drier except for where streams gushed across it. Around now I started to think about what Dave Ralphs had said about a steady start and the race starting at Courmeyeur. Oh well, too late to worry now but I was hungry. I had some chia drink and then decided to try a gel. Oops. It came straight back up. It may be the water from earlier, it maybe I was just trying to stomach it when going steeply at altitude but it certainly was a turning point for food and water for me. I turned to see a wonderful procession of torches behind (and in front ) of me all making their way up the Col du Bonhomme at around midnight. Once passed the col and the refuge it was downhill to Les Chapieux and although my torch was less bright than some I enjoyed myself. If I ran with the right person I could fly. I don't think it occured to me that I could turn an ankle or something as I was having too much fun.

 I do not remember grabbing much to eat at the next CP but I do know I did stop and try to eat something. The start of the next section was easy running along a big track until we turned for the climb to Col de la Seigne. This was almost dawn and that is always uplifting.

Time for a photocall- even if the light was rather poor. the views into the 'back' of the Mont Blanc range were amazing and I ran on renewed if not refuelled. It was a shock to see just how small the glaciers had become on this south facing side. I knew the Mer de Glace had shrunk terribly so I should have realised how much worse this side would be.

I managed to run the next sections quite well but have hazy memories of exactly what each bit was like. I remember the climb and CP plus photos at the top and I remember the drop to Lac Combal.

 I do not remember the CP or food there and that is probably significant. The run to the Col Checrouit was lovely and I sped along enjoying myself. I sat and tried to eat at the little ski chalet but struggled to swallow much. The next bit I do remember as it was fast and fun but took its toll on my quads. I was with some guys and we set a fierce pace for some reason.

The crowds as we entered Courmeyeur we superb and so encouraging. I hit town at 8.09 which was over an hour up on schedule but I felt OK despite not having eaten enough.

 Having grabbed my drop back I went inside to what appeared to be an impossibly tiny room. I had not figured that the main room was upstairs. My mistake and I will know better in future. I changed my socks and inspected my feet- wet and very wrinkled- not great. I dried them the best I could, slapped on more vaesline and put on dry socks. If only I had known I could do this at leisure upstairs! I managed to stomach a whole Forgoodness shakes and left feeling a bit better. Upstairs I found toilets, showers, food..... Oh well. I did manage a tiny portion of pasta and befriended a french guy before setting off again. If I could not eat there seemed little point in lingering. The climb out of town was steep and the day was getting warm. Around now my lack of fuel was starting to show.

I pushed on out of the tree line and up to the Refuge Bertone. I could not stomach food so I had a few sips of water and pushed on.

We were now on beautiful alpine land, little paths with a good surface and fantastic views. It was undulating rather than very steep all the way to Refuge Bonatti and I enjoyed being in the mountains.

I knew I needed to eat and so made a determined effort. Sadly half a chia flapjack, half and orange and paracetamol did not mix well. Back to sqaure one and an empty stomach again. I had a pot of apple puree and tiny sips of water and ran on. The path contoured and undulated before dropping to Arnuva and I I kept passing and being passed by the same runners.

 Clearly it was not just me that was suffering. Two American lads were great and encouraged me to stop in the valley and try refuelling at a lower altitude and when I was not still breathing hard. I did try and managed a couple of pieces of bread and a bit of fruit. Not great for energy but better than nothing.

 The next climb looked to be one of the biggest on papare but for me it was not the worst. I was losing some time but in the daylight and sun it did not seem so bad. I dunked my buff in any water I found and was OK. Until the top. Suddenly my energy deserted me and I needed to sit down. Just after the Col de Ferrat I tried to sit and eat- a bit of chia bar... nope, could not swallow. A few sips of water- but not much.

The next bit was mostly downhill and I was frustrated not to feel like running down it at speed. I made myself run and tried not to let anyone overtake me but it was an effort. Towards the bottom I got into a good crowd and their chatter kept me going through La Peule and eventually into La Fouly. I am grateful to them as our little mutlinational group kept the pace reasonable and the chat passed the time.

 La Fouly was crowded and I stopped in the tent desperate to try to get food into my system. I did manage a pice of bread and some fruit plus the every present black tea. Mandy came to chat and comiserate with my struggle to eat. The drop to Praz de Fort seemed to take forever and in my weakened state I forgot to check my schedule for times or distances. Still it arrived and it was still bright sunshine. It is a funny little place with old buildings, tiny alley like streets and a frontier town air. I knew the next section to Campex Lac was up. Still there was more food awaiting there. People were out supporting in force, chheering, cowbells hand slapping .... and had come down the path to welcome and encourage us .....so I had to make an effort. I still did not feel ill but trying to eat was getting even more difficult. I tried some tea and one small piece of bread and then a pot of apple puree. The hot food looked delicious but my stomach just said no. I spotted Mandy and was pleased not to have dropped more time. It was just starting to get dark as I ran through the town and onto the first forest track. The next bit was probably my low point. After a rough section in the woods where I did OK we set off up an ever steepening path with numerous stream crossings and very wet feet. It was dark and I was tired and hungry. I was not unhappy just cross that I did not have more energy. I tried not to let too many people pass me. La Giete was a pretty little chalet surrounded by some rather muddy fields thanks to cows but had little to stop for so I ploughed on knowing it was not far to the Col de Forclaz. It seemed further than it should be and we went down before we went up again but soon I could see the lights. The drop to Trient would not take long and I was with a small group of runners. We crossed the metal bridge they had built over the road and the path steepened sharply. I had my first dose of hallucinations here as my torch lit up little root systems on the path and as I kept moving so did they like masses of little snakes. In the end I just stopped looking at the path and trusted to luck. Suddenly there was Trient. I must have been at a low ebb because when I entered the first building with a light and then realised it was not the food and CP I stayed. It was the medics and a team of massuers. Perhaps this would help. In fact it probably cost me by 39 hour and silver standard but at the time it felt good. It did also worry Bob who had seem I was iminent but then could not see me arrive. Over 15 mins of massage and then time in the food tent was prbably what I needed. The text messga system meant Bob knew exactly where I was up to and he had cycled in the dark from Vallorcine. It was great to see him and have his support- even if persuading me to eat did mean a sudden exit from the tent to throw up again. Despite this I was smiling and in his opinion looked far less trashed than on the Hardmoors110! Leaving Trient I was slow and was overtaken by a dozen or so. I had walked this bit but could not raise the energy to move faster. It did mean that I ran with a Finnish girl and Hanno plus some others and they were great company. Catogne came and went. They had a huge bonfore and some people had fallen asleep next to it on the hillside. I consoled myself that I might not be going fast but at least I was still moving. The drop to Vallorcine was evil. It started as a very slipperly mud covered limestone path with some serious drops over the edges. Thenn in the forest the mud got thicker and the path kept going uphill when we all knew that Vallorcine was in the valley. I was by now very gald of my poles as extra points of contact and steadying my balance which was starting to go a bit. I did stay upright and the lights of the town came into view. Bob was there waiting and I tried to eat again. Noel who I had not seen since the Col de Ferret was there with a cold pizza. He offered some and yes, it did stay down. Thanks so much Noel. I daren't eat more just in case but it was good to have some food as we set off past the bonfires in the dark in search of the Col des Montets. I must have realised this was getting closer to the end, either that or a small sqaure of pizza provided more fuel than I guessed. I ploughed on in the dark past le Buet, passed huge torrents of water being channelled of the hillside and onto the main road. Bob just arrived in time as I crossed and started the last big climb. This had seemed so easy on the day we walked it but now it felt like Everest. I knew I was slowing but there was nothing I could do except hope that once we got to more level ground I would make better progress. This is the only section where the lack of sleep worried me and I knew I was unsteady on the steep ground. By now it was getting light. That and knowing the way helped although the hundreds of feet from our race and other races that had already passed had transformed the nice dry grippy rock into something of a trial. I did make better time than some and this revived me a bit. I overtook people for the first time in hours and suddenly just wanted to be down in Chamonix. I ran hard to La Chevanne and then on to the tent at La Flegere. The sun was now truely up. I did not stop here at all as I realised that under 39 hours was still just possible, maybe. I blasted down the path hoping  that I was not now risking everything and was soon at Chalet Floria.  Here the lack of sleep was certainly noticeable as trees took on the shape of people and dogs plus I kept shouting Bonsoir to people as I was ready for bed! (my french is not that bad honest). Great now it was just big track. Ugh- yes but also very stony and my feet hurt. I had mis-remembered this bit and it took much longer than I anticipated. Before the end of the track I had to admit defeat.

I would not break 39 hours and if I couldn't do that it was not worth risking breaking my neck. I slowed to a hobble and jog as I hit the outskirts of the town.

I even had to stop a few times. It was breakfast time so there were not too many people but those around gave masses of encouragement and made me feel special despite my pathetic plod.

 I managed to 'run' along the riverside for Bob to take a photo and again on some of the streets where people were so kind it seemed rude not to really try.

 What a relief to reach the finish gantry! Bob was there to congratulate me and Shelli appeared as well.

Tom gave me a big hug and I felt for him as he had pulled out at Arnuva. I sat dazed with my hard won finishers gillet and then had some photos to celebrate and another Goodness Shake (these seemed fine on my stomach?) before heading off ot the showers etc.

 Undressing and showering took forever in my pathetic state but the shower was good . I hobbled back to the finish with Bob but there was no sign of Mick and I needed sleep and food. By the afternoon I was recovered, eating, drinking and not hobbling too badly except on steps like out of the van.

We missed the prize giving which was a shame as I could have cheered mandy as FV2 class leader. Later we had a lovely meal to celebrate the end of the race and then end of our holiday. My leg which had worried me so much had caused no real bother and was no worse for its travels. So some lessons learned- Keep going it will end, you cannot hope to run one almost no food and water so learn how to eat more or stop and wait then eat perhaps, the company of others is so good. Would I do it again? Yes- I want to now. I know what to expect and want to try to better my time, which with food I am sure I can do.

If I buy some official photos I might add those later.

 

I am also working on a results spread sheet to see how my times and positions panned out. It would seem to have been a race within a race in that my overall position went up as people dropped out but my FV2 position went down after Champex Lac. Clearly older ladies start steady and do not give up. I reckon I spent at least 2-3 hours stopped at CPs trying to eat and that is ignoring earlier ones where I do not have an entry and exit time. Clearly you can't just subtract that time but I do not think I realised I had spent so long (40 mins) at Champex Lac although I was aware of being determined to try to eat and drink plus I queued for the loo and then gave up.

 

 

39 hours 7 mins 44 secs= 580th overall, 35th woman, 5th F2V (2413 made it to the first CP)

 

Fv2 40 mins behind winner, 27 behins 2nd, 20 behins 3rd and 9 behind 4th- perhaps I shouldn't have stopped for the massage!

Lowest positions in race were

Le Deleveret 706, Croix Le B 731 and all to Courmeyeur 737 then it mostly got better as others dropped out

Best positions were all after Trient 643, Vallorcine 650, La Flegere 597 and then 580 finish.

 

But for F2V I was 3rd until La Balme, 2nd until La Fouly, 4th at Champex Lac and again by Catogne and then 5th after Vallorcine