Ultra Marathon Running

Milngavie to Balmaha and Back...

2012-01-21T12:30:00.000-08:00

Myself and Ada Stewart had a mad moment of thought and decided to run from Milngavie to Balmaha on Friday night and set off about 6.30pm... It was wet windy and real hard work. Ada has not done a lot of night running with a head torch so it was going to be interesting... As Ada has fallen on the WHW Route twice now in daylight and I really feared for her but she went at her own pace...9 mile into the run I heard a loud bang and turned round to fined Ada in a heap.. She had only gone and fallen over again... but no damage was done... We carried on and soon arrived in Drymen at just over 12 mile...We had been notified that the route from here to Blamaha was blocked with trees so we ran the last 4 miles along the road to Balmaha....As the Camper van that Susan and Alice were driving down had not arrived we went straight to the pub and waited till they arrived..

I had arranged to have lunch at the Oaktree in Balamha with my wife but at the last minuet she couldnt make it... which left me with the prospect of a return run back to Milngavie which I was not looking forward to as the weather was very very poor, high winds and driving rain... but this time I ran back over Conic Hill and through Garadhban Forest...On the whole I need to be please 38 mile run... 68 mile for the week... so rest week well over due..

Kirky Krazies

2012-01-18T14:26:00.000-08:00

Sunday seen another run of the Kriky Krazies.... With Linda joining us for the first time this winter. Susan was not up for a 20mile run so she opted to run with another group from our club..Terry, Ada, Linda and myself set off on the Lenzie loop... We leave Kirkintilloch Sport Centre and head to Milton of Campsie then to Lennoxtown along the old railway line and then on to Strathblane... from there the route heads up hill towards Mugdoch Park before heading to Baldernoch and along Tower Rd to Torrance then picking up the canal and the short return to Kirkintilloch..But there was to be a shock to the system when we gathered to find that it was -4oc which would caused issues with sweating later on. Linda and I run the first 10mile together as she had not ran this distance for along time... It was a steady 20mile for us all and I finished 8mins quicker than I had done before...

New Years Eve Run

2012-01-01T12:46:00.000-08:00

The Kriky Krazies set off on another jollies on the West Highland Way from Balmaha to Rowardennan... Ada, Terry, Susan and Annmarie joined this wee 15 mile run which is quite challenging due to the rolling hills... This was Annmaries first run with the Kirky Krazies and first run on the WHW...

Annmarie became our entertainment for the day as we watch her dance round muddy puddles, flooded rivers and climb some cheeky hills...

The 3 girls are not the best at running down hills which they admit them self as Ada has had 2 bad falls on the WHW in 7 month(You would think she would learn)..

But we all stuck together to have great end of year run... which ended with us in the pub yet again...

Christmas Eve Run

2012-01-01T11:31:00.001-08:00

Arranged a wee training run for the "Kirky Krazies" but due to the time of year it was only Terry, Ada and myself that set off on the 15 mile run from Milngavie to Beech Tree and back.

The plan was to run out to the Beech Tree and have coffee and beacon buttys but it wasnt to be as the Beech Tree snack bar had closed for the winter(I do wish they had put that on there website..)..

The weather was overcast with showers but very mild... On the return Ada and Terry were about 5mins in front as I messed about with my Ipod...

As I came over a small hill I should have been able to see them but they had disappeared... The route takes a small dip and this is were I found Ada and Terry... Ada had only gone and fallen... doing some damage in the process..

Cut hands, Cut chin(5 stitches required), Cut to her thigh which turned to a 10" Bruise... all in all not the way you want to finish your pre Christmas run...

But hey ho... Ada is a touch old burd....

Conic Hill Training Run

2011-12-13T14:18:00.000-08:00

As I have done little hill work in the last 7 month which was highlighted during the Brecon Ultra in November. I decided that for the next 6 weeks all runs will be short and hill work will take first place in the training plan for next years races...
Training for next years races will start on the 29th January 2012...

West Highland Way Race 95miles 2012

2011-12-06T10:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Days.... Just got confirmation I have a place in WHW 2012 Race.

Great to see Ada Stewart, Terry Addison, Linda Dewar, Dave Gardner from our running club also taken part in this one..

Winter Ultra 2011 Race Report

2011-12-03T13:09:00.000-08:00

It was an early start for this one having to be in Kinlochleven for 8.30am..
Weather forecast was shown that it was going to be wild, -3 at 900ft and winds gusting 70-80mph making it feel -21... Happy Days..... also running today were Ada Stewart, Susan Addison and Terry Addison from Kirky Olympians.

The route was on the West Highland Way from Kinlochleven heading south to Tyndrum
The start is very mind numbing with 5mile climb up the Devils Staircase and with 30 hardy ultra runners taken to the start line we were soon off...

As normal I took my place at the back of the pack and headed off up the hill, this is a slow climb 1hrs 5mins seen me through the CP at the top of Devils Staircase with a quick hello to the very very nice marshal I headed off downhill to the next CP at the roadside of the A82..

Feeling not to bad, I had worked hard in the climb and passed a few including Ada Stewart who was suffering with tight calfs and on the fast downhill I was surprised to pass Susan Addison but there was no sign of Terry he had legged it a left Susan to get on with it... but I know Susan is quick over the flatter ground I was keen to try and make good gap between us.. But my plan would come back to haunt me later on..

As I thought Susan came rolling by on the tarmac on the way to Kingshouse with the weather staying calm we all made good time and were soon heading out onto Rannoch Moor which sits at 1100ft and can have very harsh weather and today was one of these days wind was strong and sleet and snow showers would blow through with stunning views of the Blackmount...

Still feeling heavy legged from the Brecons Ultra 2weeks previous I was having a low point as I crossed Rannoch Moor and Adrian Stott who I passed on the climb of The Devil Staircase came rolling up and passed me halfway across the Moor and in the distance I could Susan still running well...

On coming off the Moor snow clouds were building above Bridge of Orchy and with that there was a hill to be climbed to take you over to Bridge of Orchy and just then the snow and wind picks up and the climb becomes very hard work with my legs chilling and my sense of humour failing I dug deep to top the hill and another quick descent was made in to Bridge of Orchy to the next CP were Dave Scott and Julie Clark were marshaling.

Been cold and wet I wasted no time and head off for the last 7mile to Tyndrum walking and eating my mash tattie sandwich all washed down with some coke..
On heading out on to the track above Bridge of Orchy Train Station I could see that Adrain and Susan had got a wiggle on and were now about 15/20min in front but I just kept putting one foot in front of another and caught up with a young guy Chris who was struggling with cramp as it was his first Ultra I stuck with him and encouraged him to run and walk with me to get him over the finish line and with 3mile to go he was starting to recover and was offering to do more running...

As we crested the top of the last climb we would run the last mile down hill and in to the finish just out sub 6hrs (6hr 10mins).

It was a tough old day weather wise but I stuck at it to finish my second ultra in as many weeks... Great way to end the year after all thats happened..

Winter Ultra 2011

2011-12-02T11:27:00.000-08:00

Took part in this last year when it was part of Andrew Murrays S2S run.

Weather forecast -3 at 900ft feels like -21 in the wind 50mph gusting 70-80mph
So should be a fun day out..

Brecon Beacon 2011

2011-11-21T12:18:00.001-08:00

19th November 2011 saw the running of the 4th Brecon Ultra (46miles).

It has been 7 months since helicopter Saturday when I was airlifted from The Highland Fling Race (53miles)with an M.I (Heart Attack). Its been a very frustrating time watching friends taking part in races throughout the summer and not been able to joining in the fun..

My main race for 2011 was to be the West Highland Way Race again having come up short the year before but as it was only 7 weeks after my M.I it would have been very silly to even think about doing a race of that distance.

My longest run on the lead up to the Brecons Ultra was 25 miles so on entering the race I know I was good for 1 loop of the route.

This was my 3rd Brecons Ultra with a PB 11Hrs.59mins 2009.. 2010 seen my do 1 loop in 6hrs.16mins due to strained knee.. So 2011 Brecons Ultra was going to be my come back race.

To say I was nervous was an under statement.. Martin and Sue Likey who run the race know my position but still allowed me to run in their race some other may not have allowed it..

I took to the start line at 7.25am with the other 140 runners and the field drew some high calibre runners with Mark Palmer returning to defend his crown and with Daz Carter also taking part 3 weeks after completing and winning a 100 mile race things at the sharp end looked interesting.. for the rest it would be PBs or just finishing in some cases..

7.30am and we were off, I took my normal position at the back with Mike Adams and a couple of other guys doing the distance for the first time.. I would normally run/walk 15/5.. but decided to run the first 4 miles to the bottom of "Tor-y-foel" which is the start of a 45 min climb. Known what was ahead I took the climb easy and was surprised to see so many people still on the climb which give me a real lift..

Staying focused I began to pass folk and had passed about six before going through the CP and then on to the quick but slippy downhill section.. I had lost Mike at this point and pressed on known the wheels could come off later on.. I reached the next CP to see Sue who gave us Scots the normal warm welcome and continued on down to the fire road in the forest..

This section can be a real drag... long and steady climb which I ran/walked(Its the first time I had done this... on this part of the route)and passed about another 6 runners. Keeping steady I was surprised to come across Jeff Lapman as we headed out on to the open hillside towards the GAP.. Jeff and I walk together to the GAP and then enjoyed the long run down the hill to the next CP... We carried on together for another couple of miles where we passed Steve Evens... who was taking part in his first event this year and was just out to see what he could do... I pressed on and left Jeff and Steve chatting and catching up with each other...

I had reached the canal again a know from talking to Jeff I was 2 mile from completing the first loop... I put on my Ipod and it gave me the lift I was needing and arrived at the CP in 5hrs.5mins.. 6mins up on my previous best.. feel good I pressed on for the second loop with Sue shouting " you loonie your not doing another loop" my response was "you try and stop me" and off I went...

It was always my plan to cover 4 mph no matter if it was up hill.. and found myself 30mins up on my target.. I now found myself back at the bottom of Tor-y-foel and was not looking forward to the pending climb. I set off trying to keep the same pace as the first time up the climb, I now had 27 miles in my legs and know the climb could wreck my race and with 600m to the CP at the top of the hill I could feel my hamstring in my right leg begin to knot and had to stop... It eased off and got to the CP before it cramped up and need some help from the team at the CP which only caused my right quad to cramp and thought "Race Over" after about 5 mins everything eased off and set off again to try and reach the CP at 30 miles.

On moving down the hill I stopped to removed my left shoe which sent my left calf into a cramp and feel to the ground... I know my race was over now if it wouldnt loosen off and just as I lay on the ground another runner came by to check I was ok.. I was a mile away from the 30mile CP.. The cramp faded and I managed to get my trainer back on and set off again with the thought that I would withdraw at 30 mile CP.. Getting there my legs where feeling ok and know I had only 16 mile to and the next CP was at 40 miles..(Whats the worse that could happen)..

The runner that stopped to see if I was ok was Simon who I caught up with on the fire road for the second time and we would walk and talk all the way to the GAP which help take our minds off the pain that was starting to set in.. Simon was having problems with his knees on the downhill section and told me to push on.. Light was now fading fast and the plan is always to get off the GAP before it is completely dark which I just managed.... passing the last CP I put on my head torch and had 6 mile to go..

Out on to the country lanes , over the fields and back on to the canal bank I had 2 miles to go with the time at 10hrs 45mins I know Sub 11hrs was tight... but pressed on all the same. Along the Canal bank was point to point running(run to the tunnel/walk to the bridge/run to the tunnel) which got me to the finish at the town hall of Talybont in 11hrs.10mins.

I was met at the finish by Martin, Sue, Mike Adams and Alan Crawford how handed me a beer which went down a treat..

It was difficult day with toys been thrown out the pram at 30 mile due to cramp.. but more importantly to know that I can get back to running ultras..

I know the last 7 months have been hard for my family but I would like to thank my wife and kids for there continued support in the this mad sport of ultra running..

P.s

Note to self

Dont run 46 mile with wet feet...

Mark Palmer wins in 6hrs.16mins
Daz Carter 2nd

BBC Scotland News

2011-11-17T09:22:00.000-08:00

This is the link to the Scottish News on 15th November 2011
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-15719537

Marathon man’s race against time after heart attack airlift - Health - Scotsman.com

2011-11-14T14:01:00.000-08:00

Marathon man’s race against time after heart attack airlift - Health - Scotsman.com

The Scotsman

2011-11-14T13:48:00.000-08:00

I was asked to do a PR event for Scottish Ambulance Service last week here is the write up in the Scotsman Newspaper.. See the above..

Glen Ogle 33

2011-11-09T15:52:00.000-08:00

The 5th November 2011 saw the 1st running of the Glen Ogle 33.

After the great success of the Glenmore 24, Mike and I pressed on with our plans to hold a one day event, we had reccied the route many weeks before and decided the race was a goer. Now all the hard work would begin, notify the Police, arrange sponsors, get locals on side etc.

We had thought at this time of year we would get maybe 30 to 50 hardy ultra runners to come out and brave what could be a cold Scottish day.. But never did we expect 150 entries. The route was to follow the National Cycle Route No7,starting at Strathyre following the road round to Balquidder and on to Kinghouse before going off road before following the old railway line up Glen Ogle and over the famous Glen Ogle Viaduct which can be seen as you travel along the A85.

Crossing the road at the top of the glen before taking in a loop of the forest and then the return trip back down the glen and back to Strathyre to the finish...With numbers growing to 100 a new start would be need on safety grounds as having a 100 runners on the B class road was not an option.. And with that another reccie was required to find a new safer start for the race.. The new start would take place on part of the Rob Roy Way a 5min walk from the original start in the picnic area, not long after numbers would peak at 150,which Mike and I were flattered by.. All that was left was to put on a race for all to enjoy..

The new start was confirmed but would affect our overall distance but safety comes first...
An early start was needed (4.30am) on race day to set up registration and put out last of the signs at 6.30am registration opened and runners began to arrive and Strathyre was busy with runners getting ready, Many who we know from Glenmore24 and from races Mike and I had taken part in but no time to chat...With a quick briefing to each of the checkpoint teams they set off for their station with a spring in their steps.. It was still only 7am.

At 7.45am runners began to move across the road and up the hill to the new start, with everyone gathered I carried out the uncomfortable task of race briefing(am not a big public speaker) and with all the gray stuff said we were under starters orders and with a blow of the whistle we were off...

The first 1.5mile was uphill and with the chilly start and mist rolling over the hills the runners would warm up quickly... Paul Raistrick and Gareth Mayze setting the early pace with Lucy Colquhon also shown strong running in the early stages, it wouldn’t be long till they would reach the first checkpoint/water station.... Over the next 50mins all runners would be all off road and heading up the glen and over the viaduct. The sun was now out and warming up the early morning air with runners now approaching checkpoint 2 with a group of 6 or 7 forcing the pace but Paul and Gareth still out front. There was also steady running from Rebecca Johnson taking part in her first ultra as second women at the top of the glen and round the forest.

Now most runners were reaching the top of glen for their loop of the forest only to find that Paul, Gareth, Lucy making the return trip down the glen... Some confusion with a sign in the forest caused 12 runners to go the wrong way.. But most.. that had any doubt checked their race map and carried on..(We accept the sign could cause confusion and will ensure all signage is double checked for next year race..)

With all runners heading back down the glen to checkpoint 4 word filters through that Paul Raistrick finishes in 1st place 3hr.21mins with Gareth Mayze in 2nd place and Lucy Colquhon takes 1st place in the women’s race with Rebecca Johnson 2nd. Checkpoint 2/3 is cleared and we move down to Checkpoint 4 to see Ray MaCurdy, Fiona Rennie and Karen Donoghue all come through, with a few runners still to pass through the last checkpoint we head to the finish area.

The sweeper calls in to say that the last 2 runners have past the last checkpoint and Jim Drummond and Jim McIntyre(Jim been our oldest runner at 74?) are running in together and just after 3pm the 2 Jims cross the bouncy bridge and finish in the picnic area in 7hrs.25mins.

Well done to everyone who took part in the Glen Ogle 33. Thank you for given the race all your support, Congratulations to Lucy Colquhon, Rebecca Johnson, Kathy Henly, Paul Raistrick, Gareth Mayze and Craig Reid our prize winners on the day..

Thank to our sponsor Sweatshop, The Inn, 9Bar and Elet Water.

Thanks to all the marshals who gave up there day to help out.

We accept we have somethings to improve on for next year and we will ensure this happens.

Once again Thanks

Bill and Mike.

Brecon Beacon 2011

2011-10-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

On the 19th November 2011 I will take part in my first Ultra since my helicopter ride at this years Highland Fling Race... Training hard in hope I complete the 46 mile... This will be my 3rd Brecons Race and it will be great to meet up with some old friends.

Glen Ogle 33

2011-10-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

Just over a week to Glen Ogle 33 and we have 142 entries.... Over the moon with the level of interest in this wee race...

Glen Ogle 33

2011-09-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

On the 5th November 2011 will see the first running of GO33 starting at Strathyre and heading to Killin and back taken in the Glen Ogle Viaduct..

Glenmore 24

2011-09-09T13:40:00.001-07:00

On the 3rd September 2011 the first running of the Glenmore 24 took place at Glenmore, Nr Aviemore.
The race concept is to complete as many laps of a 4mile loops in 12 & 24hrs.
The race was limited to 80 runners so to allow any problems to be ironed out.

In the end 48 entered, 9 postponed to 2012, 12 DNS left us 27 starters...
The race started at 12 lunch on the Saturday with some very able ultra runners
Mimi Anderson, Ross Morefoot and Jerone Remes from Holland.. in the 24hr class
and Bob Steel, Colin Hutt, Antonia Johnson from New Zealand in the 12hrs class

All of the above set a good early pace all completing 20mile in under 4hrs. All other runners were going well all with there own goals or targets.

The weather was mixed to start but turned in to a warm sunny day with 8.30hrs on the clock we had our first drop out with Bob Steel finding the mental battle of going round the same route to much.. he drop out clocking up 44mile...

Next to drop out was Colin Hutt who was having a storming race with 56mile on the clock pulled up with cramp which is a sign mismanagement of food and fluids. Colin was assessed by lead medic Dr Andrew Murray and sent to hospital as precaution.

The race was continuing with all this drama and with sun setting the temperature began to drop as the night set in. The sky cleared and the stars shawn bright.

At midnight the 12hr race finished with 3 women taking the 1st 3 spots with Antonia Johnson taken 1st place having raked up 72miles.

The temperature continued to drop and its believed it fell to -1 runners had now dawned gloves/hats and full body cover due to the cold..
But they still managed to keep their spirits high and churn out the laps... with tired lags and tired minds.. Some runners took time out for a sleep and around 4am only 12 runners remained on the course....

As the sun came up runners began to filter back on to the course and overnight Paul Houston drop out... not returning from his comfy tent... With less than 6hrs to go in
the 24hrs class some runners had gone through the 100mile mark and were still going strong... In the end we would have 7 runners getting over the magic 100mile marker and some impressive individual battles including that of Graham Bristowe who on 2 or 3 occasion's looked down and out.

But it was still all going on at the sharp end with Jerone, Ross and Mimi all pushing hard... In the end Jerone took the honours completing 124mile, Ross 116mile, Mimi 112miles

In its first year the Glenmore24 has provide to be a very well received race with all runners saying they really enjoyed the event and would most differently return next year...

I would just like to thank all the marshals, med team, Redcross without them the event wouldnt have been held...

For further info on the race check out Glenmore24.com
See you all 2012.

Broadwood 5K

2011-08-21T14:05:00.000-07:00

Took part in the Broadwood 5K on Thursday night and had great fun. First race since heart attack... breezed around the course in 23.51.

Roll on the 29th August as I am hopeful of been signed off by Cardio dude which will allow me to plan for the Brecon Ultra in November.

Glenmore 24 & Glen Ogle 33

2011-07-30T14:48:00.001-07:00

In the pass year myself and Mike Adams have arranged 2 new races, The Glenmore 24 and The Glen Ogle 33.

The first running of the Glenmore 24 will take place on the 3rd September and the first run of the Glen Ogle 33 will be the 5th November.. both races are shown good entry levels and should become a great yearly event.

Cardio Rehab

2011-07-30T14:24:00.000-07:00

Having had my MI during this year Highland Fling Race I was enrolled in a 12 week Cardio Rehab programme at Stobhill Cardio Department.

The first 6 weeks are very low key and are designed to get people fit who would other wise just go home and back to their old habits.
As a fit person before my MI it became clear the I was going to be a challenge for the staff as I was keen to push on.
It was with this attitude that I was moved up to the big boys class after 4 weeks and that allowed me the chance to run, bike, x train and some normal weight training.

I now have 3 weeks left of the Cardio classes before a final visit to see the Cardio Dude to be signed off.

I have now started training for this year Brecon Beacons Ultra in November.. which would be a great boast to the end of the year and make this positive for next year.

Highland Fling 2011

2011-05-13T10:39:00.001-07:00

Hi All

Thanks for all the Get Well messages...

The story goes something like this.....

Having completed the D33 I was so looking forward to the Fling with the WHW Race 7 weeks later...

Went to the start and meet up with Sharky, Al C and others from my club. At 7am we were off and we headed off on our journey to Tyndrum.
Sticking to my game plan I rolled in to Drymen in 2.07(12mile) feeling good, drinking my perinon and off I headed for Balmaha.. 5mins into the forest above Drymen I begin to feel the effects of heart burn which I put down to some re-flux from the perinon which is not unknown depending how you mix it (strong or weak).

The weather was getting hotter as the sun got high in the sky I arrived at Conic Hill and was still on time to reach Balmaha in 3.40 which I duly did... I get some food on from my drop bag and say a few hellos and set off for Rowardennan to meet my wife and kids.
Known this section can be a real drag I set a target of 4mph along here which should get me into Rowardennan in around 5hrs.30mins.

The heat was now causing problems for most and I was no different. I arrived in Rowardennan in 5hrs.43mins.. and was still pleased at that due to the conditions.

On sitting down for some food in the shade and a nice cold lager shandy the heart burn became a tight pain in my central chest and was getting worse.... 15mins passed and I then know that things were not right and ask my wife to speak to the Doctor...

My wife is a Sister in ITU and quickly called for an ambulance which duly arrived in the form of a helicopter.... After some great work by the crew I was air lifted to the Royal Jubilee Hospital and fitted with a stent to clear the blocked right artery..

I have been told that I was very unlucky but also very luck as it could have been worse... I will make a full recovery and should be back running in 8wks but no ultra till next year....

so on the whole Ive got to be pleased...

Race Calender 2011

2011-05-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

On the turn of the New Year I set out my race calender for 2011. First up was D33 a race in its second year arranged by a good friend George Reid.
The race starts in Duthie Park Aberdeen and heads out the Deeside Way an old railway line to Banchory and back...
Two other runners for my club were making the step up to ultra distance and this race is ideal for them. For me it was the distance as part of my training for the main event this year was the WHW Race again after last years DNF.
Known the course was flat I went eye balls out and turned at 16.5mile in 2hrs40 with Ada and Terry about 15mins in front. As I reach 19miles the wheels came off a bit due to a tight hamstring which was to plague me to the end of the race and put a spanner in the works as far as my time was concerned finishing in 6hrs22..

But on the whole was happy with getting the race under my belt with Highland Fling up next in 6weeks.

Xmas 2010

2011-05-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

After Brecons Ultra I took 8weeks off to allow my knee to rest which worked wonders.
As a family we arrange to visit friends in New York and also Ski for a week at Killington Vermont...
Great holiday apart from my wife popping ACL on day one and is now waiting on knee re-construction...

BRECON 2010

2011-05-12T08:26:00.000-07:00

20th November 2010 seen the running of the 3rd Brecon Beacons Ultra arranged by Likeys..
Still recovering from the cold and knee injury I went to the start line with the intention of doing one lap if not 2 if my knee would hold up..

Weather was good overcast but cool... A number of us ran the race in our new sport kilts which are a great piece of kite.

Still feeling the effects of the cold Mike and I became sweepers for the race and completed one lap before heading to the pub..

S2S

2011-05-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

Hi All

Cant believe Ive not been on here for so long... Loads to bring you up to date with....
Training had been going well after the Eagle Isle but picked up a knee injury which just wouldnt clear up and with the S2S and Brecon 2010 coming up it was not great preparation for these two races.

S2S was a charity event from Kinlochleven to Tyndrum down the West Highland Way as part of Dr Andrew Murrays challenge to run 2860 mile in 80days from John O Grouts to Sahara Desert.

On the 14th November 2010 70 runners started from Kinlochleven and headed up over the Devils Staircase and out on to Rannoch Moor the weather condition were perfect for the time of year with clear blue skys and snow on the hills.

On crossing Rannoch Moor I could sense I was not running well and stopped and withdrew at Bridge O Orchy.. I woke the next morning with a very bad head cold and sore throat...

I had a beer with Andrew and wished him all the best with the rest of his challenge...

Brecon Ultra 45mile

2010-09-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

Well back in training after a wee rest after the Eagle Isle Ultra on Isle Mull. Next race up is the Brecon Ultra this is a race I took part in last year and finished in under 12hrs. I think its going to be more of a party weekend known the crew thats going to this one....back soon...

2010-09-11T12:56:00.000-07:00

EAGLE ISLE ULTRA.

The Eagle Isle Ultra is a 3 day race across Isle of Mull in the West of Scotland involving forest tracks, open hillside and mountain running covering a distance of 130k. This race is arranged by Sandbaggers the team that arranged the Gobi Challenge which I completed in 2009. On entering this race I know it would be a real tough race and that the route that Dave and Phil would have in place would be a real challenge.

Duart Castle.

Day 1 :- 43K.

Eleven hardy soles took to the start line at 8am on the Saturday morning. The forecast was for a few showers and strong winds. The standard of runner in this one varied from the very good in the likes of Andy Murray and Jo Kilkenny to five lads who had never taking part in a staged race before and of which some will take part in next years Marathon De Sables.
The race starts in the stunning grounds of Duarts Castle and heads out along country roads for around 10k before meeting the first marshal who shows the way forward out onto the open hillside and over rough ground for the next 6k. The group stretches out and Andy Murray and Donnie Campbell set the early pace with Jo Kilkenny and Rab Lee giving a good chase.
The next 15k seen runners head downhill off the open hill, along country roads and forestry tracks before heading off over some of the boggiest and wild ground that Mull has to offer. After around 8k myself, Michael and John (2 Irish lads) catch Jo and Rab. Jo has injured her lower back going over the rough ground and is down to a walk/run. On rejoining the forestry track John and Michael push on and as Jo, Rab and I are in a team we all stick together to give support to Jo. On meeting the next marshal we are informed there is 5k to the finish and the end of day 1. Jo finishes strong but will decide at the start of day 2 if she is fit to carry on. Stuart Hamilton withdraws.

Day 2 :- 42K.

Rab & Me

Day 2 starts with the news that Jo Kilkenny has withdrawn from the race due to the previous day’s injury. With only nine now in the race there was some bragging rights to be had. Due to the remoteness of some of the checkpoints the race would start at 9am to give marshals time to get in position. Once again the same format is set Andy Murray and Donnie Campbell setting the early pace with Rab Lee now looking good for 3rd spot with the rest fighting for pride. I once again I do my normal and start slow known there is a big day ahead. After 8k of road, track and rough ground we begin the long 1300ft climb up the corrie at the back of Ben More to meet Dave Scott marshalling the check point. We then head out over rough hillside and down to the next checkpoint its noticed that the Irish lads have taking the wrong route which will make a long day even longer and on heading downhill I come across Ian and Jonathan who are also finding it hard to find the next check point and the 3 of us work together to follow the correct route down. On coming off the hill we head along country roads and tracks to the next checkpoint and notice we have to climb the 1300ft back up to Dave Scott at the mountain checkpoint. Ian and Jonathan now about 15mins in front of me and the Irish lads off on the wrong route, I could feel that with a bit of effort I could push for 4th place on the day. On leaving Dave Scott I worked hard downhill and arrived at the next checkpoint at the same time as Ian and Jonathan who stop to take on water sensing a chance I pushed on and headed for the next checkpoint at the head of the loch which was an out and back section of the route. At the turn I was about half mile ahead of Ian and Jonathan with about 8k to go I meet the Irish lads heading out on the out and back route giving them about 12k to finish with a strong wind and the sun shinning I pushed on and finished the day in 4th place.

Andy Murray, Rab Lee, Donnie Campbell

Day 3 :- 43k

Having taken a tumble down the mountain side the day previously my ankle remained swollen and bruised. We start the last day at 8am with the forecast showing a very hot day in store and it didn’t disappoint. The first 10k was along rolling country roads to the first checkpoint and the normal format resumed with Andy Murray and Donnie Campbell setting the pace and Rab Lee now looking good for 3rd place overall was going well. After 10k the marshals pointed the way onto the first forestry track of the day with myself the 2 Irish lads and the hero of the race Martin Myers all together. I begin to push on and begin to move away from the other 3 and now see Jonathan just up ahead who was now down to a walk with a knee problem picked up from the previous day, Ian Hall who had been running with Jonathan had pushed on sensing a 4th place finish for the day and 4th overall . On arriving at the 22k checkpoint Jonathan and I stop to take on water and food and with the 2 Irish lads and Martin arriving not long after. One of the Irish lads John was now down to a walk also due to a foot injury, it was agreed that we would all work together to get to finish. Once again we head off down the country roads then off into the forest tracks with twist, turns uphill and downs we all found ourselves at Big Als checkpoint on the coastal path and been told 8k to go. On leaving Als checkpoint we climb back up onto the forestry track which we had left 5k previously and on out of the forest onto the country road above Tobermory with one final push we all arrive in the main street of Tobermory and the last 100m along the pier front to the finish.

View from campsite.

Conclusion.

This is a very tough 3days race over some very rough ground which will sort the men out from the boys. It’s set in a stunning part of the West Coast of Scotland which at times can throw up some very harsh weather. A special mention must go to Martin Myers taking part in his first multi-stage race in preparation for the Marathon De Sable in 2011. Great effort by all who took part.

Eagle Isle Ultra 2010

2010-06-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

On the 28th August 2010 I will be taking part in the Eagle Isle Ultra a 3day race on the Isle of Mull on the west coast of Scotland. The race is post as 25k on day 1, 63k on day 2, 25k and finish on day 3. so will up date training log for this one nearer the time.

West Highland Way Race 2010

2010-06-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

WEST HIGHLAND WAY 2010.

The West Highland Way Race was to be my big event this year and it didn’t disappoint. This race is a monster, 95 miles with 15,000ft of ascent between Milngavie in Glasgow and Fort William in the Highlands. I was coming into this race with some doubts having had a DNF at this years Highland Fling (53miles) which covers the first half of the West Highland Way to Tyndrum.
Its only 8 weeks between the Highland Fling and the West Highland Way Race so not a lot of time to try , test and change anything that might get you over the finishing line of the West Highland Way Race.
I had previously completed the Highland Fling so when you pull out of a race that you are running for a second time you must ask “what did I change” on looking back my nutrition/fluids were all wrong during the Highland Fling.
Having met up with some friends after the Highland Fling more experienced and better ultra runners than me. I was able to get some pointers in how I might be able to complete the West Highland Way Race. It was suggested to me to use Succeed Capsules a bit of advice that I have found priceless and secondly Perinon trail food shakes. I continued my training for the West Highland Way Race and introduced the Succeed Capsules and Perinon into my long runs and found an instant benefit. Now with 6weeks to the West Highland Way Race I was feeling a lot more confident that if I stick with my game plan and the nutrition works as tested I would have a chance of completing the race.

RACE DAY.
Registration opened at 9pm with the race starting at 1am it was my intention to get there early register and head home again as I only stay 15mins from the start so as to stay as relaxed as possible.
I returned at 12.15am for pre-race briefing at 12.30am. This year’s race was to be special for a few reasons. The race is now in it 25th year and the two men Bobby Shields and Duncan Watson who first ran between Milngavie and Fort William were returning to take there place at the start line and most notably the race was in memory of Dario Melaragni who was the race director for many years and who past away 2 weeks after 2009 race aged 46.

START.
There was 164 starters in this years race and at 1am with the shout of “GO” by Dario wife Gillian we were off. I was running the first 27mile to Rowardennan unsupported and carried everything that I need in a small back pack and bun bag. The sight of 164 runners heading into the night with head torches on was an amazing thing to see and with the pubs and bars emptying in Milngavie we were meet with “your feckin running to where” “feckin loonies”. Having already run the Highland Fling I know were I should be and at what time. I made sure that I was eating every 7 miles and snacking in between with trail food. On reaching Balmaha in 4hrs everything was feeling good I was at 19mile with my target of covering 4mph going well so I was 45mins up. Balmaha to Rowardennan is a real roller coaster section and I began running with some old faces that I have come to know in doing ultra running which help with this section of the route. I checked in at Rowardennan in 6hrs still ahead of time. I was met be my support crew who were a bit rough looking having spent the night there and watched the England-Algeria game in the pub but they carried out the job very well and sent me on my way to Auchtertyre which is the official 2nd checkpoint.

ROWARDENNAN –AUCHTERTYRE.
There are 2 unofficial stops along this part of the route were drop bags can be used at Inversnaid and Beinn Ghlas. I arranged a drop bag for each which meant my support crew had plenty of time for the long 2hrs drive to check point 2. On reaching Inversnaid I was still feeling very good and that the Succeed capsule and Perinon were doing there job very well as the sun was up and very hot. Taking a couple of minutes to refuel, I notice Bobby Shields seating and nursing a badly cut hand, turned out that he and Duncan Watson had taken a tumble in the dark at different stages with Duncan pulling out at Drymen and later been told he had broken 2 ribs after falling into a ditch in the dark. Bobby was not as bad but took the decision to pull out at Beinn Ghlas (41miles). On arriving at Beinn Ghlas I was met by 2 friends from my running club who had come along to offer some moral support. Once again I refuelled and set off for Auctertyre this part of the route is very open with no shade from the mid day sun but still feeling strong with the big climb at Crainlarich I was still walking the hills and running the flats and downhill sections if it was not to steep. I arrived at the crossing of the A82 which was very busy to which point I had to wait 10mins for a break in the traffic to cross the road. I arrive at 49miles a little over 13hrs. I took the opportunity to have a massage to loosen off the legs for the next section which was great and has a great ice cream cone also…mmmmm. I once again refuelled and set off for Bridge of Orchy at 60miles.

AUCTERTYRE-BRIDGE OF ORCHY
On leaving Auchtertyre I was told there were already 18 people that had pulled out. I had allocated 3hrs for this section a section which is also a very exposed with no cover from the sun. All along the route there was very little water coming off the hills to which you would normally wet your buff to keep you cool. Having climbed out of Tyndrum I began with a run/walk down the hill trying to save my quads from any more damage than necessary on arriving at the bottom of the hill I was met by Ada and Shirley from my running club who ran with me for the 3miles into Bridge of Orchy . The most notable thing was that I was there in 2hrs40 some 20mins quicker than I had allowed. Bridge o Orchy was busy with runners take on food and changing clothes for the next section across Rannoch Moor which can be very harsh if weather was bad but not today there was a cooling northly wind blowing but the sun was still warm which made for a pleasant evenings running.

Bridge of Orchy to Glencoe.
As I was leaving Bridge of Orchy word came through that Ritchie Cunningham had win in a time of 16hrs 44mins not bad I said to myself I am only 35mile behind.. I was still moving well and still doing more running than walking and once again began play cat and mouse with runners that I had past all day with them passing me at checkpoints. I passed another 6 runners going over Rannoch Moor some were down to a slow walk but still making progress. I had allowed 3hr30min for this section but once again arrived in Glencoe ahead of time in 2hrs50mins. I now had been on the go for over 20hrs and with the last 25miles to come I know it was going to be hard. I changed clothes with the knowledge that it would be dark by the time I got to Kinlochleven.

Glencoe-Kinlochleven
There’s a 3mile flattish section before the climb up the Devils Staircase by this time I was joined by my support runner as you are not allowed to be out for a second night without been paired up with someone maybe a follow runner. We arrive at the bottom of the Devil Staircase as the sun was dipping down behind the mountains and with that the temperature drop from a pleasant +18c to a barmy +5c. I had now been on the go for 44hrs with been at work and starting the race and in that time I had managed 2hrs sleep pre-race. Now in the dark a very tired the my eye began to play tricks from seen people sitting around the hill to seeing ice cream vans, am also sure I had 2 pairs of feet. The incredible need to sleep at this stage is very difficult to fight off and on one occasion my support runner Jamie turned I find my curled up sleeping on the track. The section down the off the Devil Staircase it is very steep in places a puts a lot of pressure on already painful and tired legs with this my right knee began to hurt like hell and became very swollen. On arriving at the Kinlochleven checkpoint I thought it would be a good idea to see the race Doc. after a quick check and 20min icing he said I was ok to carry on but was still having great pain in bending my knee. I took the decision to withdraw from the race with still 10hrs on the clock and 13miles to the finish line.

CONCLUSION.

This is a monster of a race and one I would recommend it to anyone looking for a real challenge. Having introduced Succeed Capsules and Perinon into my running I would say that these 2 things help me get to 82mile of this race.

THINGS I WOULD CHANGE.

Not a lot. I would take the day off before the race to ensure plenty of sleep. Maybe look at something like Pro+ or some other caffine drink to ward off the sleep demons.

SEE YOU AT THE START LINE IN 2011.

West Highland Way 2010

2010-06-12T10:58:00.000-07:00

Cannot believe Ive not been on here for a while so I will bring it up to date.

Highland Fling 2010.(53miles)

My target in this years race was to take about an hour off my time.
Everything was going ok till about 18mile and it all started to go wrong, struggling to run and once again as the previous year the weather was going to play a big factor on people feinishing.
Reaching the halfway point I was 10mins slower than the year before this is when you know things are going wrong. After some food I headed off for what must be the hardess part of the WHW. Rowardennan to Inversnaid went well and then once again up to Beinn Ghlas was a slog. Tempertures were now nudging 22c and people were dropping out all the way up the route even a passed winner drop out at 41mile due to the weather. 343 started and 271 finished. I arrived at Beinn Ghlas still 10mins down on last years time so no PB this year and with legs of lead the last 12miles were going to be hard. Heading off again I got to 47mile and the wheels came off big style, bad cramp in right calf wouldnt free off which put pay to my race for the day and with the main event for the year only 8 weeks away I wasnt wanting to take any chances. Having a DNF against your name can be a bit of a bummer but its what you learn from not completing a race that makes you stronger for the next one. I have now changed a few things for the full WHW Race with a week to go things are very positive. So at 1am on the 19th June it will be a trip into the unknown 95mile in 35hrs so happy days.

Rowardennan to Beinn Ghlas Reccis

2010-04-04T14:35:00.000-07:00

Its 3 weeks now to the Highland Fling and it was another reccie on the WHW with the girls doing the relay race. It was an out and back run for me 28mile in total and 5oooft climbing along the way.The girls on the other hand had arranged to be pick-up from the Drovers Inn. This section of the WHW must be the most demanding and is by far the hardest part.

Highland Fling 2010

2010-03-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

Its now five weeks to the HF and trainings going well. The last 2wesks having seen high mileage and very hilly courses. This week seen a crazy training run from Balmaha to Rowardennan a climb up Ben Lomond and return trip to Balmaha 23miles and 5500ft of climbing..legs sore today. I had arranged to climb Ben Lomond with two friends Mahria and Assunta and as I was late they set off before me so had some catching up to do, great day out on the hill.

Training Log..

2010-03-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

Trainings now in full swing for the Highland Fling with The West Highland Way Race to follow.
Recent weeks have seen training runs from Milngavie to Drymen and back with the ladies from the running club who are taken part in the Highland Fling Relay Race. Last week seen my long run cut short due to snow on Conic Hill, I intended to start Drymen to Rowardennan and back but moved to Balmaha to Rowardennan and back with some extra miles gained by running round some of the forestry tracks at the bottom of Ben Lomond. The route from Drymen to Rowardennan is a real roller-coaster section on the WHW. I now need to arrange three more training day for the Relay Team as I still think there is a good chance they will get lost. Ive now printed off each section of maps for them so hopefully they should be Ok....

2010 Races

2010-02-01T13:10:00.000-08:00

What 2 post in one night!!! I will need to go and sit in a dark room.

APRIL 24th 2010.
Once again I will be taken part in the Highland Fling (53miles). Last year I finish in 220th place in 13hrs25mins so am looking to take about an hour off my time in 2010.

JUNE 19th 2010.
I have managed to get a place in the WHW Race (95miles). this is the main challenge for the year and very much a journey into the unknown.

AUGUST 28th/30th 2010.
3day (100miles) race around the Isle of Mull on the west coast of Scotland this race is arranged by the guys at Sandbaggers.com who arranged the Gobi Challenge I took part in 2009, Should be a corker.

Other races to follow..........

Brecon Beacons Ultra 45miles.

2010-02-01T12:15:00.000-08:00

Well once again its a late report. Back in December I took part in the Brecons Ultra in Wales a 45mile race around the mountains. It was a 2 loop route with very demanding climbs.
The race started at 7am in the dark with runners already wearing head torches for the first hour. The forecast for the day was dry cool morning with rain moving in late afternoon.
After 4mile along the canal banks the first climb was reached a 550m steep climb which allowed the mind games to start known that this hill will require to be climbed again later in the day with a quick drop down onto a country road than back off road and another drop down onto a fire road all the height gained was now lost. We now began the long climb back up to a pass in the mountains locally known as "The Gap" at about 600m. The decent from here was quick but great care was required to avoid injury on the many rock and stones that littered the way down this 6mile section. Having left the mountains behind we make made our way along country lane and through some farmers fields before rejoining the canal bank back to the halfway mark at 23mile in 5hrs10mins.
Stopping for 5mins to take on water and some much needed food. I set off again along the canal bank and at 27miles the first climb of the day was reach again which was turned into a very slow climb. My target of around 11hrs was still within reach but with the weather now heavy rain and strong winds the bad weather seemed to have arrived early. Trying to stay positive I pushed on and headed back up to "The Gap" for a second time with visiblity down to 20m the drop down from "The Gap" would be slow and my intention to be off the mountains before dark was going well.
Winter Darkness was now with us and there was no let up in the rain and wind I continued to push on along the country lanes and over the farmer fields and back onto the canal bank for the final 4miles to the finish. I could see 5 other runners in front of me who I would try to catch but with a failing head torch things were going against me. I had now 10mins to complete 4miles and my head torch had stopped working. I did managed to catch one of the lads in front of me and ask if I could run with him to the finish due to having no head torch but it turned out he was dead on his feet as it was his first 45mile race. Offering each other support we worked together to get over the finish line in 11hrs49mins not a bad effort given the poor weather in the afternoon. Not a great fan of 2 loop routes but this was a good ulta with a great crowd of runners that I know from other races and the Mds Forum and no doubt I will go back at the end of year again.

Gobi Challenge Race Report.

2010-01-06T13:03:00.000-08:00

Well better late than never but here it is the Gobi Challenge Race Report.

DAY 1. ADMINISTRATION DAY.

We arrived in Dalandzadgad at 6.45am on board what must be the smallest plane that I have ever been on 34 seat in all. Mike Inkster camp manager was our point of contact in Ulan Bator and was chaperion to the 15 athletes on the flight. On arrival we meet up with the other memebers of Sandbaggers, Dave Scott and Phil Briggs and the Mongolian support team lead by the very funny Tomba.

After fuelling up the vehicles it was a 2hr drive to the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains to our first camp site. On settling into camp I was sharing a tent with Al silcock and Alan Goddard and its was announced that the race briefing and kit check would take place around 5pm. Dave Scott took to the stage first to outline that stage 1 had been changed and that we would be doing a 30k cicular loop returning to camp to complete the stage and also outlined what we could expect on the proceeding days. Phil Briggs(Safety Officer) was next up to point out likely hazards(snakes,wild life,etc) that could be encountered during the early morning starts. The medical team was made up of 2 UK doctors, Duncan Goddall and Andy Murray and 2 Mongolian doctors Surena and Thorba. After the race briefing it was time for final kit checks then off to bed for the early rise of 5.30am with the race stage starting at 7.00am

Stage 1.

30K: 10K Climb, 10K Mountain Gorge, 10K Hilly Desert Plans.

Temperature: +42c

The race started at 7am when the temperatures were still cool but one thing athletes were feeling was the altitude at 8000ft there was increased problem with breathing and with the first 10K up hill it was going to a trying start. On reaching the first checkpoint we had reached the dizzy heights of 9230ft and with water on board it was a quick down hill section into the mountain gorge. The next 10K through the mountain gorges provided some rest from the rising temperature and also some of the best trail running you will find in the world with goats, camels and yak roaming free. On existing the gorge we arrived at the last checkpoint of the day were our water bottles were refilled by the support team it was a final push for the last 10K of the day, with a sharpe put up the a small hill it was now out onto desert plains and the rolling hills back to camp with temperature now +40c it was going to be a hard 10K.

Stage 2.

35K 10K Climb, 10K Mountain Gorge, 15K Desert Plains

Temperature +40c

The race once again started at 7am with runners making there way up the first 5K of the day before route and heading off into a second mountain gorge. After 10K of climb again we meet the medic and support team. Once again temperatures are starting to build but the gorge offers little rest from the sun until the last 2K. the trail running in the gorgr was as good as the day before. After leaving the mountain gorge its out and onto the desert plains and the first signs of wear and tear begins to show with Brian Jenkins having feet problems and Dave Fitzgerald beginning to feel the effects of the sun. Both require lenghty stops a the checkpoint at 30K before carrying on to finish the stage 2.

Stage 3.

43K: 43K Desert Plains.

Temperature: +42c

Due to the damage to Brain Jenkins feet from the prevoius days efforts Brian was offered to start at 6am to allow him as much time as possible to complete the stage 3 which he duly accepted with the rest of the field starting at 7am. As on the previous days the race breaks into its normal format Andy Murray, Caroline Richards and Walter Spenst lending the pack with the middle group of Nick Drews, Lee Wallington, Pete Barnish, Matt Simmons, Dave Fitzgearld and myself and bring up the rear Al Silcock, Alan Goddard,Deborah Stott and Andrew James all working well through tough conditions. After 10K Brian is passed by most in the field and is sebsequently removed from the race on medical grounds. Other people beginning to suffer at this stage are Al Silcock, Deborah Stott, Andrew James and myself all with blister problems. All remaining runners complete the stage to the welcome sight of the medic tent who carry out much need running repairs to allow athletes to take to the start line for stage 4.

Stage 4.

Temperature +42c

38K: 20K Desert Plains, 7K Climb, 11K Mountain Gorge.

Once again ther is a split in the start with Allan Goddard, Allan Silcock, Deborah Stott and Andrew James all out at 6am with the rest of the field to follow. Deborah and Andrew suffering the most from the porceeding days slowly making there way to the first checkpoint at 10K as the rest of the field head through on to checkpoint 2 at 20K. Its only at the 30K checkpoint that the other runners become aware that Deborah has been withdrawn on medical grounds due to very bad blisters. The rest of the athletes continue at a steady pace to complete the stage and finish in a stunning Mountain Gorge.

Stage 5.

Temperature +43c

43K: 14K Desert Plains, 10K Sand Dunes, 19K Desert Plains.

This Stage began with a short dash out of the Mountain Gorge before heading west to the sand dunes known as Khongyron Els. The first 14K on the desert plains are now taken its the effects on the remaining athletes feet with the pace beginning to slow. Once again there is a split start with Allan Silcock, Allan Goddard, Andrew James and Dave Fitzgerald all starting at 6am. Dave Fitzgearld still suffing from the heat makes steady progress and is accompanied by Allan Silcock as they head to the sand dunes. Now on the sand dunes the late starters have made up good ground and the dunes are busy with athletes trying to pick the best line to the next checkpoint high on the dunes. I make good progress and pass the early starters at this checkpoint then head off down the dunes and back onto the dread desert plains for the last 19K of the day. Once again the medical staff are waiting in camp and work wonders on the bruised and blistered feet.

Stage 6.

Temperature +42c

35K: 10K Desert Plains, 10K Big Dunes, 8K Desert Plains, 7K Even Bigger Sand Dunes.

Race Director Dave Scott had informed the athletes at the start of the race the stage 6,7 had been added together to give a final day of 35K. Once again the normal is followed the early starter and the chasing pack Andy Murray has now built up a commanding lead over Caroline Richards and Walter Spenst with the remaining places unchanged from previous days. Athletes temperament is beginning to wean due to the demands of the desert plains, long flat, very hot and featureless but known its the last stage everyone digs deep and attack the day ahead.

After 10K the first checkpoint of the day arrives and we are pointed in the direction of the biggest sand dunes you would ever see, in a sick way it was a great delight to climb them as anything away from the desert plains was heaven, its was now all about getting over the finishing line. On arriving at the 20K checkpoint I find Allan Goddard hiding in the shade feeling the effect of yet another hot day on the desert plain. After carrying out some running repairs to my feet, myself and Allan set off together for the last 15K offering each other much needed moral support. After 5K Allan is once again beginning to suffer and drops further behind. The last section of the stage bring athletes into the finish and given great support on passing through camp I informed the medical staff the Allan Goddard is suffering and may need attention on arrival. Athletes already finished are Andy Murray, Caroline Richards and Walter Spenst with all other athletes on the sand dunes or on the way to the finish line. On climbing onto the sand dune ridge it was a steady run/walk across the skyline to reach the final checkpoint and the last 3K down the sand dunes and back to camp and the finish line.

In all 15 athletes stater 13 finishers and enough blisters to last a life time. This is a must do race for anyone who enjoys adventure racing in amazing part of the world. Well done to the following Allan Goddard, Allan Silcock, Dave Fitzgerald and Andrew James who all found real strength to finish the race when most thought they were down and out. to Brian Jenkins and Deborah Stott who have confirmed they would return next year.

Bill Heirs 9th 41hrs 32mins

Special Thanks

To the Sanbaggers Team great event, great race, great support all the best for the future.

Brecon Beacons Ultra 45miles

2009-11-07T12:33:00.000-08:00

In Decemeber I will be taking part in the Brecons Ultra a 45mile foot race round the Brecon Beacon Mountains. This race is arranged by Likeys Adventure Racing Company who also arrange the 6633 Ice Ultra Marathon in Canada. The Brecons Ultra is sold out with a 140 athletes taking to the start line in the last Ultra race of the year. In 2008 the race weather was cold and dry with tempretures at the start of -8c so lets hope for more of the same this year...

Gobi Challenge 2009

2009-11-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

Well better bring this up to date having completed this years main event the Gobi Challenge.

On completing the Gobi Challenge I travelled 140miles in 6 days throught Mountains, Ice Gorges, Desert Plains and the Highest Sand Dunes in Asia in tempertures of +42 in the shade.

Me sitting at last checkpoint on day 6.

Andrew climbing the high Sand Dune on day 6.

A full race report will appear here shortly..

2009-06-15T11:30:00.000-07:00

Well thought I would bring things up to date after the Highland Fling. After a weeks rest and a week in Las Vegas enjoying the sun it was back to training. Things were kept light with a couple of 5K runs at the Glasgow park runs on a Saturday morning and slowly worked the mileage up, at the time of write I have just completed a 55mile week. With only 6 weeks to the Gobi Challenge I plan to do some tough traning weekends with hill runs and back to back 20 milers, recently ran up and down Ben Lomond 1hr 50min (9 miles and 3250ft of ascent) thought I was doing ok until I checked this year race results and found that the winning time up and down was 1hr 12 mins my time would have placed me 90th over all (room for improvement). Well its off to the gym now to keep up the good work.

Highland Fling 2009

2009-05-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

On Saturday the Highland Fling took place up the lower part of the West Highland Way form Milngavie to Tyndrum, with a new format of individuals, teams and relay teams in all categories it seen numbers boost from 70 the year previous to around 400 this year. Female, Female Vets, Female Super Vets and Male Super Vets all had a 6am start given them a 15hr cut off time.
Next up was Male and Male Vets starting at 7am given a 14hr cut off time with the relay teams starting at 8am. Taking the next step I was heading into the unknown having only raced 43miles in the Devil O the Highlands the year previous, the extra 10 miles would be a real challenge. My game plan was to cover a steady 5mph which seem to work well in the early stage as I past Drymen at 12miles in 2hrs.12mins. The next section would see runners climb over Conic Hill

to Balmaha with the route to Rowardennan thrown up some cheeky hills, I arrived at Rowardennan in 5hrs.40mins. Taken a 20min rest and to take on food and a change of clothes the weather had turned into a fine warm day which seem to affect some runners. In leaving Rowardennan on the 6hr mark, I had allowed 4hrs to reach Beinn Glas some 13miles away, along what can only be described as “Hell on Earth” and was only fit for mountain goats.
Feeling low at this point I managed to pass about a dozen runners all struggling to cope with the condition under foot and press on to Beinn Glas in 9hrs.52mins. Stopping for some much need food I pushed on given myself 4hrs to complete the last 12 miles. At 44miles the good old Scottish weather did its best to hamper me further with a hail and rain storm which enforced a rescue call to my support team for dry clothes. After a quick change at the side of the A82 and with only 8 miles to go, I gave one last effort to complete the race before the cut off time of 14hrs but as is the norm in these races the route is never the most direct one and with a couple of more hills and bends I was greeted by a well wisher “500 to go” and the finish line was in sight and completing the race in 13hrs.25mins. “This race is not for the faint hearted but its a great race all the same. Its the hardest Ultra I have done to date and will be back to do it again. Just for the records the winner was Jez Bragg setting a new course record 7hrs.19mins.

Training All Done.

2009-03-08T13:03:00.000-07:00

HIGHLAND FLING ROUTE.

Well I think its about six weeks since my last post, so I will bring you up to date. Training has gone well with 3 weekend of 35miles over two days with my longest run been between 22 & 25 miles my continued trips to the gym & running with the club on Tuesdays and Thursdays make my week very full. My last reccie up the WHW was from Rowardennan to Inversnaid and back, the funny things you find in the middle of no where.(Like the bike below).

I am looking forward to this race and would like to do it in around 10hrs. Dont let anybody tell you theres no wild life in Scotland as they must has there eyes closed, as you can see I meet some new friends on this run.

Mountain Goats at Loch Lomond.

Its now taper time and have reduced my mileage in readyness for Saturdays Race but this is very hard for someone whos been training 5 or 6 times a week. So its now time for the race so will up date again after Saturday with results.

Ben Vane at Inveruglas. White Falls at Inversnaid.

30mile Training Weekend.

2009-03-01T12:44:00.000-08:00

The weekend was a 22miles mixed raod and trail run along country roads and trail pathes. Having run this route a few times I forgot how hilly the middle section was with hill after hill for 3miles.

The return 10miles in the past was along good trail pathes but due to upgrading by the council large section will become tarmac. The object of the weekend was to train two day in a row to see the effect on my poor legs, completing the the 22mile in 3hr30mins I felt good with a day hillwalking to follow on Sunday.

Sunday brought a climb up Ben Donich a small corbert but a nice wee hill non the less with rain showers and snow at the top. The group involved in this wee walk was Dave, Simon, Tricia, Stewart and Jo all people who have completed the Marathon des Sables or are taken part in the coming years event. The week was about mileage and reaching 55miles which I have reached with no real problems this will be the mileage for the coming weeks.

Easy Week.

2009-02-22T14:47:00.000-08:00

This was any easy week only 40miles so back up to 50+ this week. Completed a 12.5k road race with 12 hills today good way to end the week will post the photo when I get them downloaded. Back to trail running next week with long run next Saturday and a day in the hill next Sunday so busy time ahead.

2009-02-15T11:48:00.000-08:00

Well its been a good weekend 13k road run with 12 good hills in 65mins followed by some swimming yesturday. Toady was an interest climb up Ben Vorlich at Loch Lomond varied snow cover misty summit, very windy but good fun, some scary moments on the forzen grass on the approach to the ridge. very good winter walk..

Balmaha to Rowardennan

2009-02-08T12:31:00.000-08:00

Well another reccie along the WHW from Balmaha to Rowardennan and back about 14miles. Bitting cold day with plenty of snow on Ben Lomond. This is a wee cheeky section of the WHW with some good flat sections and some cheeky hills on the approach to Rowardennan with snow and ice on the path care was needed to avoid injury. Trail food was made up of jelly babies and salty nuts with no ill effects. Next reccie will be the latter section of the Highland Fling from Benn Glas to Tyndrum which is the last 13mile of the race. A few small runs over the next couple of weeks with our clubs 12.5k road race with 12 hills on the way round my quickiest time to date 63 mins.

West Highland Way Reccie

2009-01-31T14:18:00.000-08:00

Well 22miles today. The reccie was to check out the course for the Highland Fling in April so I did an out and back route from Beechtree Inn to The Old Oak Inn at Balmaha and back. The first section was flat with couple of hills on the approach to Drymen. The route from Drymen was a bit of a test as it was rolling hills for about 3miles with a quick downhill section on the way to the climb over Conic Hill, which turn out to be very pleasent with great views from the top of Loch Lomond and as normal forgot to take a camera. On the return the route from bottom of Conic Hill to Drymen seemed to pass in no time, looking back on it I did gain some hight heading out of Drymen so all downhill back to Drymen.(Happy Days). I ran today with the rucksack I plan to take to the Gobi very good piece of kit no bouncing around, food and drink very easy to get at, should have take a bit more of each. Trail food worked well mixture of jelly beans and mixed nuts. So on the whole another good days traning.

Training

2009-01-24T04:30:00.000-08:00

Some good news. Firstly training going well 14mile run last Sunday in 2hrs, 16miles tomorrow with good sessions throught the week at the gym and with the club. Further good news was that my employer Muirfield Contracts Ltd (Dundee) have agreed to sponsor me for the Gobi Challenge 09 the finer details still to be confirmed.

http://www.muirfieldcontracts.co.uk/

Lenzie Jog 09

2009-01-09T11:12:00.000-08:00

The first race of the year took place on the 2nd of Jan 2009. A 180 runners took to the start line on this cold and crisp day. Distance varied from 2.5miles and 5miles races. I took part in the Big Lads race and completed the 5mile course in 39mins and finishing in 51st place, not to bad after the party season. So its now onwards and upwards with my training for the Highland Fling.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

2008-12-30T13:14:00.000-08:00

On the run up to Christmas training was going well until the dreaded "man flu" took hold which floored me for 2 weeks. Now over the flu and back in training, its only a 115 days to the Highland Fling Foot Race so training will need to be step up in the coming weeks.

Training Over Christams and New Year

1. 2 x Hill climbing days.
2. 2 x Hill rep sessions, 1 mile warm up and 2 mile warm down.
3. 2 x 7 mile steady runs.
4. 1 x 10 mile trail run.
5. 1 x 6 mile road run.

So all in all its been a good 2 weeks.

Introduction

2008-12-13T11:08:00.000-08:00

Hi

Thanks for visiting.

Where to start. I am a late starter when it comes to running. I was challenged to run a 5k Christmas handicap race by my son who runs with our local running club Kirkintilloch Olympians at the age of 38 then followed the challenge of 10k and half marathon. The thought of running a full marathon is something that I have no interest in "why"? I dont know. As someone who enjoys the great outdoors ie hillwalking, mountain biking, camping I was looking for new challenges that would encompass all of the above and this is were I entered the mad world of Ultra Marathons.

Ultra Marathons are generally events over 30miles and normally 1 day races and as runners look for the next challenge more and more are looking to multi-day event like the Marathon des Sables, Gobi Challenge and 6633 Ultra Race which allow athletes to race over distances of 140+ miles. I have to date taken part in three 1 day event, twice in the Maggies Challenge which is a 30 mile bike section followed by a 43 mile run/hike to be complete in 24hrs and recently The Devil o the Highlands 08 a 43 mile footrace to be complete in 12hrs along the latter part of the West Highland Way. My next Ultra is the Highland Fling a 53 mile race along the the lower half of the West Highland Way this will be used as training for my main challenge in 2009. I am taken part in the Gobi Challenge which races 140+ mile through mountains, ice gorges, desert plains and the highest sand dunes in Asia.