Ultra Tour Trail Du Mont Blanc 2009

It’s been almost 4 weeks since the race and about time I put some thoughts down on paper before the detail is forgotten.
This race was the focus of my year when I was accepted in January. I, along with three other Australians would contest in what in 7 years has become the biggest trail ultra in the world. With 2300 competitors, 166kms of Alpine trails, 9,400 metres ascent and 3 countries to pass through it’s not difficult to understand why.

My journey to the UTMB began in mid July with a holiday to Ireland, catching up with family and attending both my brother's and sister’s weddings. It was a family holiday with my wife and three daughters coming along for the ride.

My training tailed off considerably after leaving Australia and my booze intake increased substantially. This was a holiday however and I was in Guinness land. :)
After a week in Bangkok and 3 weeks in Ireland prior to the run we flew into Frankfurt, Germany where we picked up our motorhome (campervan) rental. We travelled south along the ‘romantic road’ from Wurzburg to Fussen visiting the most beautiful towns Germany has to offer before finally reaching the Swiss Alps, travelled through Switzerland and then scooting across to race headquarters in Chamonix France. I felt very anxious about my recent preparation with very few runs over 20kms (one in fact in the Dublin Mtns only) and was worried about my overly tight hamstrings. But I figured I was here to run as best I could on the day and accept my pre race conditioning.

Note click on images for full resolution.





We arrived in Chamonix on the Wednesday of race week. Chamonix is a rather large ski resort town nestled in a beautiful Alpine valley with the Mont Blanc massif overshadowing it. What a wonderful part of the world with absolutely stunning picture postcard views in all directions. We found a suitable campground on the outskirts of town near the Les Bossons glacier and set up camp. The following morning (day before the race) we lined up all day to go up the Agui du Midi cable car which takes you up to 3842mtrs looking straight across at the Mont Blanc peak. This is the biggest tourist attraction in the town and although we lined up for hours and spent most of the day up there on our feet, it was well worth the views, simply stunning. I was starting to feel like racing and getting out onto the climbs of the UTMB.

The entire event is extremely well organised, which it has to be with the number of entrants 2300. Three events happen simultaneously, The Petit Trot Leon (PTL), The CCC and the UTMB. The PTL is the toughest, a multi day (100hr cut-off) 220km and 17,000 m ascent. It’s claimed to be more of an event than a race with teams of 3 competing and overnighting in huts along the way. I guess it’s similar to fast packing.
Of course the most popular event is the UTMB with a complete circumnavigation of the Mont Blanc Massif. It covers most of the well-trodden TMB hikers trail with some diversions along the way. The CCC is the little brother event, a 98km run around the back half of the UTMB starting at the approximate halfway point of the UTMB in Courmayeur Italy through to Champex and then on to the finish in Chamonix

Race day dawned and after a nice lie-in (race starts at 6.30pm) we made our way into town to register. By this stage the town centre is rocking with excitement as runners descend on the town in the thousands. Rego is quick and efficient with a quick check of compulsory gear. This year there would be a minimum weight requirement of 2kgs per pack after a few complaints last year about certain runners not carrying all the required gear. There would be spot checks throughout the race too (my pack was actually checked just as I approached the start line).
I was keen to meet up with Kevin Cassidy who I had been in touch prior to the race. After a few texts we finally met near the pasta dinner venue. It was great to meet both Kev and Sandra and then to finally catch up with Jan too.






I was pumped when we finally arrived at the start line. It’s hard not to be with 2,300 runners from all over the world, (some would say the cream of ultra runners) crammed into the small cobblestone streets of Chamonix. An archway marks the start/finish line with a booming loudspeaker belting out Vangelis to stir up the emotions. I stood there with my wife Sue and the girls closing my eyes, soaking it up, getting a charge off the atmosphere. The announcers were mostly speaking in French with the occasional English translation. After a 10 second countdown we were off bang on 6.30pm.



It took quite some time to get going with a slow shuffle around the streets until we spread out. The French really embrace this event and from the off there were hundreds lined along the streets cheering and singing, fantastic.
I desperately looked for Sue and the girls at the first turn where she said she would be, but alas no chance, it was chockers. I did spot Kev Cassidy busily snapping away as we left the town centre. This was without doubt unlike any ultra I’d run before.
It was interesting watching the majority of runners around me carrying their trekking poles. Some left them in their packs for later, others ran with them swaying side by side and others attempted using them from the off. To be honest it was frustrating having to avoid getting stabbed at times, as we were herded out of town.


After a few kms of easy flat running we hit our first climb (800m) to the La Charme. The views back along this climb were simply wonderful as the light of the sun begins to fade. How unusual to be running into the darkness this early in a 100 miler. My phone rings as I climb, my brother asking about flower girl dresses for his wedding (my daughters were flower girls), hmm bad timing mate. I power hiked this climb feeling good and strong, looking at runner’s race bibs with their flags of nationality printed on them. The majority of runners were from France, Switzerland, Italy and Spain. Despite the huge numbers there was an intense air about the place with very little chatting. One guy, an Italian was great value, he would woo the crowds as we approached the towns, revving them up and it was hard not to get pumped by his energy.



I enjoyed the descent into Saint Gervais but wow, some of the runners around me took off. I held back preserving my knees and hammies for later using my experience and not getting drawn into silly games this early.
Saint Gervais was incredible. The town was alive with UTMB fever. People lined the streets, cowbells rang, and wine was drunk, along with flying high fives from the kids. This was a taste of what was to be a regular occurrence at each of the tiny village towns lining the course, reminding me of scenes from the Tour de France.
I filled my pack, grabbed some fruit and cake and left. No need to linger here.

The next 10kms were undulating tending upwards to the town of Les Contamines 31km in and then the LONG…BIG climb to the top of the Croix du Bonhomme 2479m(1270m/9.4km ascent). Still early days, I was happy to just put the head down and plug away at it. I looked nervously at those around me efficiently leaning on their poles hauling themselves upwards effortlessly thinking, oh God I hope my decision to leave mine at home doesn’t come back to haunt me. The thing about this race is if you use poles for any part of it you have to carry them the entire way, they are not allowed in drops etc. Oh well suck it up and see.



As I looked back along the trail the line of headlamps twinkling, snaking their way up the mountainside was awesome. I recall it being very cold as we approached the summit. The weather changes quickly here so I pulled over to the side and put my rain jacket on. The temp dropped to 2C apparently near the top and it started raining, it was 1.38am. At the crest there stood a small inviting hut (refuge) set up where you could get out of the wind and into warmer gear, a glowing orange ball from the heaters and lights inside that could be seen for miles.

The descent into Les Chapieux was steep with some sections along grass. This brought relief to the feet, which were sore and hot. My headlamp flashed and not long after the beam began to fade. Trouble was I was on a downhill and didn’t want to stop to change batteries. I hung on to a guy running a similar pace and used his light to guide me down and onto the streets of Les Chapieux, 50kms down. Unbelievably, as I sat down to change my headlamp batteries, the guy sitting next to me was from Petzl. He recycled my used batteries and gave me 4 freshly charged AAs. What were the chances of that! I nibbled on some cheese and bread (as if I hadn’t already eaten enough cheese and baguette whilst travelling) and grabbed a couple of sportsbars. The aid stations were more than adequately stocked, some even serving wine from small casques! My Inov-8 pack was performing well with water refills not a bother despite the horizontal bladder set up, erasing my earlier concerns.

The next 10kms to the Col de la Seigne (2516m) a climb of just shy on 1000m took me a good 2 hours. Some trails were nicely groomed and others were rocky and quite technical. I switched to that 2-4am autopilot mode, waiting for dawns first rays to re-energise me. I had now crossed into Italy. Yet another descent to Lac Canbal and subsequent climb to Arête du Mont-Favre. It’s handy having the map now as I recall these climbs, because at the time they all melded into one. It was 12 hrs in exactly when I topped out. I was ahead of my initial projections and I figured on a 14hr arrival in Courmayeur(a vague calculation), the approximate half waypoint and major drop bag aid station. I had no idea what position I was in at this stage but was continually impressed with the calibre of runners around me. Some made climbing look so effortless. One guy chatted to me for a while as we power walked. He was a 3-time finisher and filled me in on what to expect over the next few hours. Climb…descend…climb…descend was pretty much the gist of it.

The long descent into Courmayeur was lovely with the rays of the new day lighting up the southern side of the Mont Blanc massif. I trundled my way down several endless switchbacks feeling reasonably good and re-energised from the dawning of the new day, apart from some hot spots on my feet. I was wearing my Cascadias but found my feet moving around far too much in them. This descent was incredible, at times I could see where some runners had taken the shortcuts through the switchbacks. Not that much gain I figured and they would likely burn up their quads heaps quicker too. I was chasing a bloke in front and slowly gaining on him catching him just before the bottom. Out onto the streets of this pretty Italian town where once again despite the time of the day I was welcomed with applause and cheers. It really did help lift the spirits.

The aid station is set up in the Sports Complex, a gymnasium which was huge. Inside tables were set up with runners eating pasta and drinking soup. I retrieved my drop bag (the only drop bag allowed in the entire race) and changed into a new top and ditched the Cascadias for the rock protection and comfort of my old Montrail Continental Divides. A loo stop (where some runners chose to do a full body wash down at the sinks!) and then some hot breakfast pasta (yum…not. it was 8am!). I invested a good 20 minutes there but it was time well spent. Leaving the aid station I took the opportunity to snap some photos as I walked the climb up the road out of town, again simply stunning views.





On the climb to the Refuge Bertone I started feeling ill all of a sudden. Where the hell was my energy boost from the hot food back at Courmayeur? I fell into a bad slump and struggled with my appetite. Continuing to the next Refuge Bonatti at 90km I was walking lots. I had quite a few runners pass me on the way up to the highest point of the course at the Grand Col Ferret 2537m. This is one mother of a climb, open trail with no tree cover. However the distraction of the sheer beauty around me helped somewhat and I knew at some stage I would find my way out of this trough.



I bumped into a few hikers as we approached the top that noticed the Australian flag on my bib. I stopped and chatted to them, one of whom once climbed Kosciusko. They wished me well and said I was the only Australian they had seen on the course thus far. After cresting we crossed into Switzerland and into a strong cold wind, how different from the opposite side of the pass. I quickly threw my jacket back on for the flying descent.



My climbing legs were hurting and although I was slowing with each ascent I was still catching up on most of those who passed me on the descents. My downhill running was keeping my average speed quite healthy and I was holding my position but I was concerned. I was 100kms into the run and had a long way to go.

The long descent to La Fouly was better and I made good time and started to feel better. I was not eating much however and vowed to slam back another broth once at the aid station. Familiar faces as I re-passed quite a few runners. I marvelled at how well some runners used their poles even on the descents. I spent 20 minutes at La Fouly recovering, eating and drinking. It was hot and I was slightly dehydrated. The staff at the aid stations were very helpful, despite the language barrier.



It was 3.15pm when I left. I had several hours of daylight left and wanted to cover as much ground as possible. The next big aid station was 15kms away at Champex-Lac with yet another climb into it. The rolling countryside of the Swiss mountains was one of my favourite sections of the entire course. At one stage I was by myself, for the first time, no one is sight ahead and no one behind. Lush rolling countryside, beautiful quaint houses dotted on the hillside amongst the pine trees. I was in a very happy space.



At the aid station I had a cup of tea and a biscuit, which seemed to help my appetite. Back out and onto the climb to Bovine where once again I slowed to a crawl. How the hell was I going to complete this thing with 2 more major climbs left? For the first time I started to seriously doubt whether I was going to be able to get up those climbs.
The second night of running was upon me now and I needed something to get me through it. I rummaged around in the bush and found the perfect walking stick. This “trekking pole” would become my best mate for the next 30kms. I was close to packing in and lying down at the top of the climb into Bovine but this stick helped me haul myself up the steep rocky trail taking the weight off my aching hammies and quads.

Out on the trail to Trient I caught a French guy who spoke some English. We chatted for a while; it was good to have some company. He too was a 3-time finisher and informed me that the worst was still ahead. Great! Apparently only 2 more climbs but the last was a late addition last year and a real evil climb that drains you.
I tucked in behind my new friend and made good progress to Trient, after another endless switchbacky freefall to the checkpoint. It was a fun trail, technical single track, roots and rock hopping. It was just on 10PM when I finally arrived at Trient. The checkpoint was buzzing, doubling up as a bar and an aid station. I grabbed a bowl of soup and wanted pasta, but there were only meat sauces available. A computer was linked up to an overhead projector displaying runners split times as they came in crossing the timing mats. The DJ was blasting music and randomly calling out runners’ names. All of a sudden I hear “do we have a Philip Murphy from Australia, is he here?” I put my hand up and smiled, and the locals at the bar cheered. How cool was this. Next I hear Men at Work’s “Land Down Under” blaring out from the speakers. “This is for the Australie” the DJ proclaims. Very cool albeit slightly embarrassing. :) It did lift the spirits though and I left there feeling good. 2 climbs left, how hard can it be? I had given up looking at my maps and elevation profiles after feeling sick glancing at it in La Fouly. This race just kept on getting tougher and tougher. Head down and get on with it, a real test of character.

The climb up to Catogne (700m/5km) began pretty much as soon as I left the CP. Long switchbacks that went on forever. I stopped to go the toilet and after getting going again realised I had forgotten my trusty stick. I backtracked and retrieved it; no way I was leaving it behind. A couple of runners passed me on this climb looking strong. I would re-catch them later on the other side of the pass. The stick was definitely helping me on this climb. Next stop was Vallorcine back into France. The distance is supposedly only 5km but I would contest this, surely it was way further. Looking at my splits it would seem so. The descent into Vallorcine was murder on my now exhausted quads. I could see the town lights from the top of the pass but it seemed to take an eternity to reach it. At one stage I heard cowbells thinking this was the town with cheering crowds as was the norm, only to realise there were in fact 5 black bulls ahead blocking the trail! I stopped and moved to the side. A runner in front was startled and slightly freaked out. He turned around and started walking towards me. I had my stick and so felt slightly less vulnerable. Turned out the bulls were more freaked out by our headlamps as they scurried on by. I met another French guy who had been leap frogging with me for quite a while. He was struggling on the downhills with smashed quads but still strong on the climbs. We complemented each other quite well, so we ended up helping each other for the next few hours.

At Vallorcine I didn’t eat, no appetite again, so I just filled the pack and left with Christophe, my new trail buddy. Upon leaving the CP Christophe offered me a Mars Bar. I managed to get it down and was thankful for the extra energy given what lay ahead. After a few kms of gradual incline the trail quickly became very steep and rocky. I leant on my trusty stick for support as I hauled myself up this final climb. (870m/ 7km). Stopping every now and again to catch my breath and prevent my calves from spasming it took a long time to ascend. More runners passed us, but at this stage I didn’t give a rats. After finally summating (several false peaks later) the trail flattens out to a boulder hopping ‘watch your ankles’ traverse of top of the mountain. Pretty much a diagonal crossing from one side to the other until finally the lights of Chamonix deep in the valley below appear. Christophe was hurting badly on the way to the final CP at La Flegere and so we slowed quite a bit getting there. As we approached the illuminated oasis I could hear Elvis on their loudspeaker system. My mind drifted off to the GNW100 and the now infamous Elvis music at CP1.

I knew I had a bit of time to get down the supposed final 6 kms to Chamonix and make sub 36hr (a vague goal I had from the start) so waited until Christophe ate and recovered. We were a good team and a finish together would be cool. I texted Sue as to when I roughly expected to finish, so she could wake the kids and drive there. After leaving the final CP it quickly became apparent that the terrain (very rocky, rough and slow) was having a huge affect on Christophe. He urged me on knowing he was not going to make 36hrs. Reluctantly I took off and like a man possessed flew down the last 7kms of switchbacks dropping into the Chamonix valley. Still it took quite some time before reaching the outskirts of the town. I passed 3 more runners before popping out onto the streets. It was getting close to 6.20am and I recalled a loop the loop before the finish line. I strode out and was running 4.30/kms probably my fastest pace of the entire run. No way I was missing 36hrs now. I switched off my headlamp and charged through the streets of the awakening town. There were a few people already lining the barricades showing their appreciation. I rounded the final bend and there it was, the finish line I had dreamt about for months. The emotion of it all took over and when I saw Sue and my girls at the finish line (the first time they have been there for the finish of a 100 miler) I welled up. I threw my stick into the air punching it triumphantly. 35hrs 56 mins, job done.



What a run! What a challenge, I was finished, totally spent but extremely satisfied.
289th form 2300 entrants, I’ll take that. The most pleasing statistic was that I steadily improved my position the whole way despite my troubles in the middle-final third of the race.

So would I do it again? Probably if given the opportunity, but it’s the kind of run that ticks the bucket list box and there are just too many other 100 milers on that list. If you don’t mind crowds and enjoy running up and down very steep alpine mountains I can’t recommend it highly enough though. Just make sure you incorporate plenty of long hills in your training and make a holiday of it. There is so much to do and see in the Chamonix valley. If you like, take some poles. Hell if Scott Jurek and Karl Meltzer are using them after years of not, there’s got to be something to it?

It’s now been 4 weeks since I finished with 2 weeks of zero running and very little since. I am still very much unrecovered. This race took more out of me than any other. Maybe I was not “hill ready” enough, but I suspect a less than ideal lead up (lots of German beer and French wine, getting around in a campervan etc) most likely lead to my lethargic recovery. But bugger it. I wouldn’t change a thing. (Well except for maybe using those ‘very European’ sticks J)

Dublin Mtns Peaks Fell Race

well that was too much fun, fell running in the dublin mtns (very fatass style)
the final climb up mt kippure was hilarious. i fell in with a couple of runners and followed them to halfway, used the garmin and memory for the return trip. 4 ascents the last straight up a mud slide. coming down was hilarious, gh 07 didn't have a patch on it.
knee deep in mud, no trail, free falling down a hillside, gnarly thick heathery tussocks, straight out of feet in the clouds.
garmin gave it 34kms and 1250 mtrs ascent
lots of short cuts available but local knowledge needed, i passed one guy,was 600mtrs behind me with a couple of kms to go, he rejoined the trail with 500 mtrs to go and we finished together...hmmm. shades of what's to come at UTMB.
one of the guys ran UTMB 3 times, reckons i will be a legend if i can finish it without poles!!!

fantastic views out over the dublin basin, weather showery with clear spells and a howling wind
i feel worked...
oh 4.07 finish time. 2.09 out and 1,57 back

good solid hitout, off my best training week since i left sydney. good to finally hit some hilly trails again. week in bangkok was awefull to run in and my first week in Dublin involved lots of drinking and partying (wedding and 2 concerts) with about 55kms of very flat (tight hammie) running. I should top out with about 140kms this week, so better. Another big week and then off to mainland europe.

Catch up

Well after a hot and sticky 6 days in and around Bangkok, where heat training was in full swing, we are now in Dublin. Talk of contrasting weather scenarios. It's cold and wet here. Occasionally the sun pokes it's eye out, but tbh I am enjoying running here. It was of course wonderful to catch up with the family and show the kids where I grew up. Lots of guinness and good food too. Training has been tapping along. I ran 10km most days in Bangkok, but the effort involved felt more like a solid 10miler instead. I ran the morning after landing in Dublin to shake off the jeylag, on the back roads near where I grew up. Lots of memories come flooding back. Bit concerned about a couple of very tight upper hammies, I put it down to electrolyte depletion after Bangkok but will monitor it. Need to hit some trails soon after a week of bike paths and bitumen, so now i got insurance organised on the brother's car, I got wheels to get me to the mountains. U2 concert on Friday and then my sister's wedding on Saturday keeping events this week busy.

Gotta run...

12FT Training

All packed, only took me an hour or so. It was amusing laying out my stuff on the bed. My running gear to regular clothes ratio was 3:1 easily. Just tipping the scales on allowable check in weight. Off to Thailand today and then back to Eire for the first time in 6 yrs. Can't wait to show the kids where I grew up.

Training- Finished up a good 3 week training spell on Saturday with a training run over the 12FT. Was nice to have a few starters including Jan, Terry, Will and his mate.
Turned out to be a cool damp day, with a wicked mist on the climb up from the river through the Mini saddle and up Pluvi. I ran with Terry to the river before pulling away and spending the rest of the day alone. Split at a very busy Caves House was 5.08, after a slow Black Range. Spent way too long waiting for a bucket of chips and drink before turning around for the return up the hill. Lots of tourists about. Heaps of kangaroos and black cockatoos too around Caves Rd. The water at the Deviation tank was close to freezing. A few bikers here and there before the solitude of the descent of Pluvi-Little River and then Mini, spectacular as ever in the late afternoon. A waist high crossing of the frigid river and then back to my drop at the Megalong tree, just on dusk. Coke, sustagen and some chips, feeling re-energised, then the long slog up Nellies arriving at the tree in 11.37, exactly what I wanted from the day. Knackered hammies, thrashed quads and an inner glow of having once again run 12FT.

More hills and miles to come...

Good to go..

Well I leave for Thailand and Europe next week. I might try and use this blog to update my progress/experiences as I go and in the lead up to UTMB etc.
Training has been great, really enjoying a new program thanks to some very good coaching from Martin Fryer. I've been doing 3 quality sessions a week with average totals 100-120km. This will increase to 160kms for 2 weeks before tapering for the race at the end of August. The body has been coping well with the change in training albeit a bit of a shock to the system, suddenly running repeats at the track and adding hillwork too, but I'm sure I'll reap the benefits soon enough. It's still early days.
Next week will be a reduced mileage week where I'll be in Thailand visiting a mate for a few days before flying to Dublin. I have a 36km (1000mtr ascent)trail race lined up on the 2nd August in the mountains just outside Dublin and will be incorporating this into a big training week.
I'll be running 12FT as a solid long run this Saturday. Put some feelers out on the CR site for some company but alas looks like I'll be running solo. Goal time of 11.30-12hrs so not a full throttle run but solid enough off no taper.

Very excited to be travelling again..

G2W2G 2009

Same run as last year, an out and back of the Oaks/Bennets firetrails. I set off earlier this year as the elite mtb'ers were getting away at 9am from Woodford. I allowed 2.5hrs so left at 6.25am from the N.P gates. It was dark still, cold but not too bad. A wicked fog forced me to run with the headlamp switched off down to the causeway, i couldn't see a thing.
There was one other car at the gates and I figured it might be Slowmaniac, who mentioned he was up for an out n' back.
It's a magical time of the morning watching the bush come alive as the sun comes up. I was enjoying the early rises past Bennet's Ridge trailhead where would leave the Oaks Trail in the opposite direction during the race, for the final 5kms. I could make out the occasional fresh footprint in the softer sandy sections. The long gradual climb to the helipad takes its toll, I was intent on running the whole way though for the training affect. I soon warmed up and stripped down, taking my top, moeben sleeves and gloves off. Packed away in the camebak, I took the opportunity to grab a museli bar and vegemite sanger. The sun peeped over the horizon proper, over my shoulder lighting up a single redgum ahead on the trail, fantastic.
A few mtbers came screaming past getting a head start on the race. I then caught up to a couple as they climbed up toward suicide corner. Not long after Slowmaniac appeared and we ended up running together to Woodford arriving just before 9am. After registering I took the time to eat some more food, stretch and hang out with a few familiar faces. I love ths race, it's grown so much, I remember when I first started running it standing around with as few as 40-50 odd runners at the startline, now we have 400 plus. Come start time I nestled in with Tim, Brick, Rod and Sarge. Plenty of banter and a good laugh. Plan was to run solidly to the helipad and then smash it to Glenbrook (that's the plan every year I suppose). Bang we were off, Sarge, Rod and Tim took off. Brick held back and I soon caught up. Plenty of testing hills in the first 10km, I was feeling the kms from earlier but stayed conservative. Had a chat with Brewer and Kim Cook, chugging away through 10km in 46:50mins. The helipad in 57.30 and then i saw Tim. I took off after him slowly reeling him in on the long descent. Leaning into the hill I was enjoying the 'gravity' high of downhill running. Legs felt good, some minor fatigue after a big week but happy 'nuff.
I caught up to Tim and teased him, he didn't like the fact that I was there and so took off, just the kick in the arse he needed :)
My phone rang so i slowed to answer knowing Sue and the kids might be at the finish.
Bugger just missed it, tried calling back, no signal. Tim had a gap now but i soon bridged it, phone rang again, ahh shit, slowed and never saw tim again. Brewer and Gnome passed with a few kms to go looking strong. I was happy realising I should hit the 1.54ish mark. Bennet's Ridge trail, still feeling good, I decided to push it and see what time i could get. I soon caught back up to Brewer who was saving himself for GC and then with a km to go Terry Meahan passed. I put in a chase but he was way too strong. The sweeping downhill finish makes for a nice strideout, where I passed Greta Truscott. Finish 1.51.58 net, a 10 second PB, I'll take it.

Nice to hang around with the family at the SMC tent afterwards. Lots of stuff for the kids to do too. Cool event.

Poorman's Comrades 2009

That was lots of fun. We couldn’t have picked a better day weather wise for it.
I love this run, one of the few road runs I’ll try to do every year. I remember when I first starting looking at ultra runs (fatass) this one always stuck out for me as one of the more intriguing point to point journeys. Imagine running from the Central Coast to Sydney, how cool would that be? 6 years later and it still holds a certain magic.

I have been building up my base mileage of late with an eye on my goal race at Mont Blanc in August, so went into PMC with no taper. Plan was just get out there and run on feel, although admittedly I did have some splits for an 8.59 finish just in case. J
I have been pretty consistent with this one with my previous 4 runs all round 9.13-9.28, that sub 9hr run seemed elusive. Alas..

Early into the run and I felt great, was happily running 5min kms, tackled the first hill up Debenham Rd with ease running with Michael (RunMikeyRun who shared some of Manly to Palm Beach with us) and Keith “the pocket rocket” aka BuzzLightyear. I wasn’t too sure about the road closure but thankfully Andrew “Beaver” assured us we were good to get across. It was along here that Michael and I opened up a small gap to Keith and the others. Still feeling strong running all inclines well, eating and drinking ‘early and often’. On the descent to Mooney Creek I pulled away and was now on my own, love that stretch, in fact it’s probably the best part of the whole run, so beautiful at the bottom, whip and bell birds going off, the GNW to the left, lots of memories flow along here. Andrew was at the bottom offering his crewing services to whomever; I was good to go so politely declined. I was in fact carrying quite a bit of kit with a MULE camelbak packed with warmer gear for race end and plenty of food and water. I also wore a small Nathan belt with 2 (250ml) bottles that I used for my Sustagen mix, a good trial for the compulsory gear that will be required for UTMB.
Not sure why but despite the miles in the legs I felt great on the climb out of Mooney Creek, and continued to just plug away hoping it would last. I think it was near Calga Interchange when Chris (Barney) passed me, it was only a matter of time, he’s a much stronger runner than I. We chatted briefly before he took off.
I slotted into a nice pace arriving at the supposedly closed Mt White Village Store at 25kms in a touch over 2hrs. Chris was having a crew stop off the side of the road; I pushed on through despite the shop being open. Chris rejoined me before pulling away again. I ran hard down the hill to the Mooney Servo at 35km (2.52) where I grabbed some water from Andrew for the 4km climb to the Pie in the Sky on the other side of the Hawksbury River. Passed Coolwalker David on the Bridge and wished him well, he’d been going since 3.30am! I remember feeling knackered reading about the travel logistics he had just getting to the start line.
Anyhow, the trot up to the Pie in the Sky went by easily enough, again I was still feeling strong. I saw Mick briefly who wished me well, nice to see a familiar face and the support is always great. I grabbed a vegie pie and gatorade and left scoffing the pie whilst running and preceded to almost choke on it, so dry it was. Still good to get some ‘real’ food in. I hit the marathon mark shortly thereafter in 3.36.

The next section is pretty taxing on the mind, through to Cowan and then onto Berowra and Mt Kuringai, some nice rolling hills, plenty of cyclists passing by, some offering encouragement. I was looking forward to the turn off for Bobbin Head. As I rolled into Mt Colah, Chris (Hamburglar) turned up looking for a long run in his preparation for the M7 marathon and so joined me. He popped into the servo and grabbed me a much-needed coke, as I was feeling a little flat by this stage.
It didn’t take long before the coke kicked in and the long descent to Bobbin Head passed by quickly. I was enjoying the distraction of conversation with Chris’s company too. Beaver was at the head and I availed of his service filling my Nathan bottles to make up some Sustagen for the climb out. Apparently I had roughly 3kms on Buzz and Barney was 15-20 minutes ahead of me. Chris mentioned it was an awkward place to be as we trotted up the other side of Bobbin Head, 3km behind and 3km in front, I was happy enough. After what seemed an interminable amount of time we finally reached the turn off for the Pacific Hwy again, that stretch through Turramurra never ceases to surprise me. I found better legs running down to Gordon with the pace increasing. Then all of a sudden we noticed a group of runners ahead. I then realised it was Barney and his mates (Dave C and crew). I pulled up alongside and asked if he needed anything, it seemed the electrolyte/food issues that have plagued him were back to bite again. A real shame as would have taken this race out such was his lead. The roller coaster ride along Lindfield (Strickland Ave) was where I could hold onto the time I had in the bank (I was 10mins up on 9hr even split time), as long as I kept pushing the hills. Together with Chris we made good progress through here and soon enough we were in Chatswood. The run along Archer Street was a bit crazy with the now busy roads and pedestrians to deal with. However the traffic lights were kind as we made our way around Mowbray and Herbert Sts and on the stretch for home. After rejoining the Pac Hwy at Nth Syd, I realised sub 9 was on but it might be a push. Get moving, it’s all downhill from here! The pace increased and soon we were on Alfred St skirting the Harbour Bridge. I could see the Opera House, it was 8.30 in, I had 30 minutes to cover 4km and get to the Opera House. Still I was dubious of the distance and once on the Bridge we were pulling out 4.30s. I was maxing out and really feeling the effort aerobically. A quick dash down Argyle St and onto the madness of Circular Quay. Running like crazy past the ferries, I knew then I had sub 9 well and truly in the bag. Weaving in and out through the mass of people coming out of the Opera House I was totally zoned out and on max effort. One last effort up the steps and then one of the most beautiful kisses of all, the traditional kiss of the Opera House sail. Stopped the watch at 8.47 and immediately fell down in a heap, smashed.

That was gold, after 6 attempts I finally snagged a sub 9hr finish. Thanks to Chris for the company, makes a difference for sure. Thanks to the tireless Beaver for helping out as well as Ourimbah, Terry and Mick for their support.

Run of the day was without doubt Buzz’s. Fantastic debut and I’m sure we can expect big things from him in the future. Watch out Glasshouse!
Improver of the day-Plu. I was so happy to learn he’d finished after so many years supporting the run. Amazing and off such little training.
Many more fine runs on the day, good to see Tim hitting some form again, and of course our one and only female finisher ERB, after a huge weekend on the GNW, fantastic stuff. Well done all.

See you next year!

Manly to Palm Beach Fatass 60km

I wanted to run this one last year but couldn't so with a leave pass granted (and only a week after NF100) I was off to Sydney's northern beaches. I pulled up well after the North Face with some good runs during the week particularly Thursday and Friday. So feeling relatively recovered and fresh I lined up with about 15 others at the Surf club in Manly. Chris (Hamburglar) dreamed this one up a couple of years ago and it's been growing in numbers since. Basically it follows the coastline hugging all the beaches to Palm beach, turn around and run back to Manly. A road run but with some golf course and headland trails too to mix it up a little.
I wasn't too keen on the road bashing but a new pair of 2140s helped in the cushioning department. Started off with Innes and Milov as far as Freshwater but backed off and let them go. I dropped back and fell in with Sir Runalot and Dave Cannings enjoying the drier than expected conditions given the forecast. We picked up another runner Michael (RunMikeyRun)about 10kms in who was also backing up after TNF100 but was out for a shorter version of the run. Occasionally the wind would whip up off the sea and douse us in sea spray, the odd shower here and there and wind gusts but pretty good otherwise. We averaged 5.30s for the first 20 kms before a few testing hills and a slowing Dave C brought us back to just under 6 min pace. Lots of winding headland running with spectacular views north and south, the sea was wild with all beaches closed to the public. Stopped for a pie at Avalon, very nice, stupid me then managed to lose my money there fumbling around with my waist belt. As we approached Whale Beach road the course gets hillier. Nothing too dramatic but these short hills do take a cumulative toll.
We spotted Milov on his return trip just before the steps down to Palm Beach. Halfway in 2.57, a quick stop at the loo at the surf club and back again. A good climb back up to the road and then the slog along Whale Beach Rd where we passed the remainder of the outgoing field. I had planned on stopping at the bakery again but realised I had lost my money and only had a $2 coin, bugger. Dave had dropped off the pace earlier deciding to take it easier on the return trip. And when Michael pulled away for home with 10kms to go it was just Noel and I. We hit the 50km marker bang on 5hrs so not too shabby but slowed thereafter. I was feeling rather low with no food, running on empty, when thankfully Sir Runalot offered me a couple of sugar coated jelly babies. I soon picked up and together we ran out the remainder of the course through to Freshwater and down the hill into Manly. By now the sun was out and there were heaps of people milling about the Esplanade. We finished at the Surf Club greeted by a waiting Milov in 6.14.

A packet of chips and coke (thanks Milov) and I was feeling as good as new, albeit a bit road bashed. Good scenic run, enjoyed the day. Thank Hamburglar.
I'm thinking trails next weekend though :)

North Face 100 2009

What I posted on CR.


I had a mixed day. I was pleased to post a 31-minute PB but had some big energy fluctuations throughout the day in doing so. I found the first leg to be a drag along Narrowneck where the first of my “lows” started. I was eating well and drinking fine, just couldn’t find my mojo. The low patches were bad and I really had to push through them, more so than most runs. The run to Dunphy’s off Taros went well where I picked it up and ran with Dean for a while (chatting about Mont Blanc, Badwater Western States etc, nice bloke). Once in and out of the CP I began to enjoy the day more, and loved the climb up Ironpot and the views over the valley. My best leg was from 3 to 4, up Nellies, where I found some reserve, but I might have overcooked it a little. With 13hrs the target I was still hitting the splits I set myself up until the Sublime trail through the Jamison Valley. I was powering down hill but felt way flat on the flats and even flatter on the climbs. Luckily the hospital CP fixed me up, with a good feed and my drop bottle of coke. I ran ok for the final 11kms where I was not passed to finish in 13.17. A tough run but I’ll take it. Some awesome runs on the day. Shogun, you da man!! Beaver a player (what an improvement!) and Dog continuing to get faster and faster, Terry and TallGeoff sub 14, great stuff. Tim2 what a great last leg, you almost caught Andrew. Well done all.

BTW Re-the course change. I much preferred the Nature Trail and Lillian’s Bridge trails back into Leura over last years course, tougher but way better.

Thanks again to Tom, Alina and the volunteers, awesome event.

Wilsons Promontory Trail Run 80km

Wilsons Promontory Trail Run 2009

I've been meaning to get down and run this one for a number of years but something always conspired against it. Having read numerous race reports, trawled through Chillimans’s photos from last year and listened to Whippet talk it up; this was the time to finally tick it off the list.

With the Victorian bush fires hitting the Prom pretty badly we were lucky to get a run down there at all. Fortunately the fires stayed north of Tidal river, which meant Parks could open up the entire trail south that is used for the 80km. I flew down on the Friday morning and after a week of showers in Sydney; I was fully expecting it to be wet and wild at the Prom. Whippet picked me up at Avalon on route from Geelong and 4hrs later we arrived at Tidal river campground. We unpacked the mellum mothership and set up tent just before the rain hit.
Met up with Eatem, DuckGirl and Chilliman (who was there from Thursday and graciously had race headquarters set up). As dusk fell more and more runners arrived along with RD Paul Ashton. A great buzz about the place with lots of anticipation amongst the virgins, yours truly included.
After campsite dinner and a couple of beers we were off to bed. Not much sleep was had as the wind and rain kicked up through the night, blowing our tarp over. Poor Andy was up in the middle of the night hammering pegs in the ground and tying the tarp to the trees.

Just before arising at 5am it pissed down and was blowing a gale. Hmm this was going to be interesting. After a short race briefing from Paul we set off bang on 6am.

A total of 40 odd runners in various distances 44km, 60km and the 80km.
There was lots of experience around too with most repeat offenders, Whippet taking the prize for most Prom appearances since its inception in 2001. The first climb up to Oberon carpark quickly split the field. I tried to stay with Bryan (Ackers) but he soon disappeared into the distance, a way better climber than I. Whippet was not that far behind and there were only a handful of runners in front. At the carpark we hit the trail proper to Sealers. I roughly estimated and printed 10hr splits based on Brett’s excellent topo map and carried them with me.

Windy Saddle was a bigger climb than I anticipated but still runable. The fires had crossed the trail here and I was surprised they were re-opened so soon. With headlamps still on we made our way up to the top through an eerily damp and scorched trail. The stench from the charred vegetation was still in the air. As I crested the saddle I looked around briefly, what a cool place, the sky a dark steely grey.
I had flaffed about with my jacket, taking it off on the climb to Oberon carpark, only to put it back on again as the rain came down again.

The next section was mostly downward toward Sealers Cove along beautiful tree covered singletrack and rainforest before finally emerging on a boardwalk across Sealers Swamp. I ran reasonably well along this descent twisting and turning it’s way toward Sealers. I passed Freesoul who was gliding along barefoot. Very impressive stuff, she made barefoot running look simple and painless. I envied her and wished I could do the same. She was really experiencing the trail.
I was in front of Whippet at this stage but knew once we hit the long downhill he would come screaming past and right on cue just before the boardwalk he did, mentioning he would see me at the beach.
I was busting to go though and took advantage of the toilet right at the beach, losing a couple of minutes in the process. When I did hit the sand I could see Whippet, Bryan and Peter Bignell (pbig) off in the distance about to cross the inlet. I was warned that this exit from the campground was a bit tricky to find but I couldn’t catch up to the front guys. As I crossed the creek I looked for their footprints but they disappeared into the grass. I looked for an obvious trailhead but couldn’t see anything. Damn, then I noticed Maggot behind me. He directed me off to the left and said look for a trail and head into the campsite. I did but went too far left and ended up running along a trail to a Rangers Hut, which would then take me back into the campsite. Not much time lost but a reminder to stay focussed. Maggot refilled at the waterpipe, I had enough and so continued on the climb around the headland, destination Refuge Cove. Thanks Maggot.

The trail climbs and drops around the headlands tending east and then south. I was feeling rather crappy at this early stage and wondered whether the Hellgate Fatass run the weekend before may have still been in the legs. However, after a nice downhill I emerged onto Refuge Cove and was stopped in my tracks by its beauty. The turquoise water lapped the shoreline as the sun peeked out from behind the clouds. I could have easily pulled up here for a while and went for swim, perfect.
But this was a race, so I got moving again. Found the exit easily and began the climb up the next headland which skirts Kersop Peak.
The trail petered out onto huge granite boulders at times and this stuffed me up. I looked around and just guessed the way forward, which luckily turned out to be correct. Looking back along the coastline here afforded spectacular vistas of pristine unspoilt beaches, more magic stuff. Eventually another long downhill takes you onto Waterloo Bay. The sun was out now and after catching Pbig at Little Waterloo I stopped to take my jacket off and stuff it back into my pack. Maggot caught up as I took off up the final headland before Waterloo Bay proper.

The Waterloo Walking Track takes heads inland west to Telegraph Junction bisecting the lower peninsula of Wilsons Prom and was one of my favourite parts of the entire run. It starts out along sandy single track that quickly become duckboarding and then back onto sand. The spurs of Mt Boulder off to the left with fantastic rock formations, the sands of Oberon Bay straight ahead in the distance and the mighty Mt Wilson to the right, all surreal surrounds on Australia’s most southerly terrain. I ran most of the uphill here figuring if I could make good time to the Junction I could stop briefly to drop off some food and drink for the return trip and scoff down a tin of spaghetti hoops at the same time. As I approached the lightly forested area of the junction I spotted Whippet who had just arrived. “What took you so long” was his first comment. We stashed our drops in the bush and headed south up the long climb toward Martins Hill. I enjoyed the power walk break but was feeling good and wanted to get running again, maximise your highs and survive your lows right. Pbig appeared just as I was taking off, having made good time from Waterloo Bay it seemed.

I ran past Halfway Hut choosing not to stop, I had plenty of water. Before long I reached the trail junction where the single-track turns off to the right. I took a split, just outside 10hr pace. The trail now descends along some fairly overgrown trail that eventually delivers you into Roaring Meg. It reminded me of the run into the basin at the Great North Walk. I looked for the trail marker heading to South Point and shot on through the campground. I was now expecting a fairly easy drop of 3 kms or so to the most southerly point of Australia’s mainland. What I hadn’t figured on was the twisting and turning, fairly technical and definitely longer than 3kms trail. It was awesome trail running though and I was soaking up every second. I crossed paths with Bryan who was now leading, about 10 minutes out from the turnaround. He was running well and looked strong. I would have to pull off a blinder to catch him I thought. I scrambled across the rocks and touched the plaque, looked around a bit before retracing my footsteps back up the hill.

Whippet came into view flying downhill with Pbig on his tail, both looking very determined, it seemed they were having a good ole tussle. I figured I had maybe 20 minutes on them. I struggled a little back into Roaring Meg passing a happy RMC and was greeted by a hiker at the campground. I noticed Pbig’s Aarn backpack on the fence; obviously he chose to go lighter on the return trip to south point. I pulled out a banana for the trail to the lighthouse and dropped a gu. Maggot then appeared on his way into Roaring Meg in the 60km looking strong. After a few kms of more superb singletrack I popped out onto a 4-wheel drive track. I was ambling along when suddenly I noticed some writing scratched into the trail. I ignored it for a second and then realised there was an arrow too. Was it intended for us runners or hikers? I backtracked and realised there was a turn off to the left and a big signpost with Lighthouse on it. Phew almost missed it, idiot.
I double-checked my compass to make sure I was still heading east-southeast, all good. With awesome vistas to the right along the coastline, the lighthouse eventually came into view, sitting on a rocky pillar jutting out to sea off in the distance. The trail drops for the final few kms down to the lighthouse access trail. I flew along here and was half expecting the Whippetman to catch up such was the terrain, very much his domain.

As I hit the concrete path I passed Bryan and figured he was at least 15 mins ahead. Next was Brett on his way back in the 60km and then I caught up to Paul Ashton and Brendan. After a good climb, reminiscent of the Wildhorse Mtn climb at Glasshouse I reached the lighthouse. I had read up a little on the lighthouse before the run and was suitably impressed by it. I touched the door and then made for the water tap inside the toilet and refilled. A quick refuel and back down the hill. A nice turning point, I felt I was homeward bound now.
I almost made it to the turn off heading north to Waterloo Bay when again Whippet came flying downhill, followed closely by Eatem and Duckgirl who were running in the 60km.

The next section climbs almost immediately across the headland flanking the lower reaches of South Peak. It was along here that I died and went to trail heaven. If there is such a thing as trail nirvana it was here that I found it. The trail drops off to the right though remote untouched forest with tall trees hugging the embankment that roll down to the sea. I felt like I was in the middle of some enchanted land, such was the beauty of the surrounds. Twisting and winding its way upward the trail eventually levelled off before a long and sometimes technical descent to Waterloo Bay. I passed more hikers along here and could see my destination off in the distance. I ran as hard as I could to the bottom hoping to catch a glimpse of Bryan and get a gapper. I didn’t see him on the beach at all and figured he still had a good 15 minutes at least on me.
I arrived back at the turn off along the Waterloo Walking Track and having ran along there a few hours earlier knew what to expect. I passed a family a short while later and asked them if they spotted another runner ahead. They informed me that Bryan was a good 10-12mins in front of me. Hmm, keep plugging away and see what happens.

I stopped at telegraph junction to retrieve my drop but a crow had ripped the bag apart and all I found was my small bottle of coke. The ‘Up and Go’ and tin of creamed rice were nowhere to be seen? Oh well the coke would have to do. Only 11kms to go, I should be right. The trail to Oberon bay was cleared and made for quick running to the beach. The sand was hard which helped too as I ran toward the exit. I noticed 3 runners ahead but couldn’t make out who they were. As I got closer I realised Bryan wasn’t there and I would likely have to settle for 2nd place at this late stage. As I approached the inlet and water crossing Brett was busy pulling out his garbage bag, stepping into it and then hopping his way across the water. I was amused as the water was so low that I managed to skip across getting only one foot marginally wet. Brett pointed me in the right direction to the trail that leads up over the headland to Little Oberon Bay. I ran most of the incline and once around the other side looked down toward the beach and spotted Bryan just about to exit. I ran hard down to the sand, and along the beach finding the notorious Little Oberon exit immediately, daylight and a big arrow making it a whole lot easier to find of course. I was within cooee of the finish now and figured I could pull off a sub 10hr finish if I kept plugging away. The trail around the final headland and Norman Point seem to take forever. I longed to see the beach at Norman Bay and the finish. When it finally came into view I looked for Bryan but there were quite a few people on the beach and it was hard to make him out. The trail dropped and I put on the afterburners hammering down the final hill. I hit the beach and knew I had to look for Ramp 3 the exit point back to the finish. The wind was blowing head on making it difficult to get any real speed happening.
I finally reached the ramp (what was ramp 4 actually) and exited the beach and the final few hundred metres back to race headquarters and the finish line.
Maggot (who ran very well and won the 60km) and Bryan greeted me as I arrived in 9.48. Turned out I was only 4 minutes between us in the end. Well chuffed.

Hung around for a bit before toddling off for a shower and then watching the other runners come in. Whippet was next and then the rest came in over the following few hours.

One of the best things about this race, apart from the obvious splendour of the trail itself is the low key/no frills feel to it if you like.
We just hung around the camp scoffing back beers that night trading war stories. Cool stuff…our Victorian friends made me feel very welcome into the Prom Club.J

Thanks to Paul and the other runners for enabling this event, I will endeavour to make it back for the full monty next time.

Lastly, a massive thanks to Whippet for making this run happen for me, with airport transfers and camping gear, hell he even cooked both nights. Cheers mate.

Phil.

What's been happening..?

Been a busy few weeks since 6FT. A couple of weeks later I put on the Wiseman's Ferry Old Great North Road Fatass run again. The usual turnout of 12 runners or so and a great day on the trails. I ran with Ewan Horsbrough and John Mergler, both guys keeping me very honest on a very solid 50km hitout.





The weekend after that I competed in the annual BRW corporate triathlon in Sydney where our team at Cochlear finished 10th from almost 1000 teams, pretty cool and great fun as usual. The following weekend was the Hellgate Fatass Run (46km).





I wanted to test myself on this run and race it hard. I finished with a 10 minute PB in 5.29 after a very pleasing run where I felt strong most of the way. The long climb from Jenolan river is a cracker. Definitely one of my favourite runs in the Blue Mountains. So a good few weeks leading up to the next race the following weekend
namely the Wilson's Promontory 80km...report to come.

Six Foot Track Marathon 2009

Six Foot Track marathon number 8, done and dusted. An eventful year with the famed beer bet on Coolrunning adding a bit of spice to the proceedings. Although I was a tad fast for the beer bet from my time last year (4.39) I couldn’t help but get caught up in the racing. Besides I know all the beer betters and have ran with a lot of them before at some stage.

After a somewhat dodgy taper week of antibiotics and no running (laryngitis) I was doubtful of a fast time. As I lined up near the front of wave 2, the plan was to take it out hard this year to the river and see what happened. I might blow up but I have never really smashed it to the river, so we’d see. Nice plan but reality was I was caught in the conga line down Nellies and the split at the sign was bang on last years 13 mins. As the trail opened up I settled into a good pace running with Hamburglar. I pulled up alongside Gnome nearing the end of Nellies Glen Rd and we chatted for a bit.
Up and over Pinnacle Hill feeling good, temperature was perfect. I passed Brick here as we hit the single track to the river. I really wanted to make up for some lost time and preceded to pass a lot of runners until I found open trail all the way to the river. Crossed in 1.21 feeling good. Not as fast as I wanted. I wore my Nathan waistbelt so didn’t stop at the CP.
Not far up Mini I fell in behind Kim Cook and tried to stay with him, he was strong on the climbs and together we ran a fair chunk of Mini. My splits last year had me at the top in 1.58, I topped out this year in 1.57, still feeling strong.
The run along the saddle was awesome, powered down it passing Kim and ran strongly to the start of the Pluvio climb. I tried running, well plodding up most of the gentler ascents and powerwalked the rest. Passed Milov and then Actionman passed me flyin. He would end up with an impressive 4.11 for the day. Pluvio in 2.43 and I was still very close to PB pace, could I keep it together?
We all know the Black Range is where the race truly begins and so after my first coke for the day I took off. The plan was to run the whole way to Deviation, no walking. I was moving quite well passing a few more runners but being passed too as my pace was not that fast. Kelvin came into view doing it tough, we spoke briefly but I knew he was in for a long day. The beer betters were all close along here. I could see Hornet ahead in the distance, his pink skirt a giveaway but I was not closing the gap. Then Sarge passes me, where did he come from, nice running mate. I felt patience was the way to go and just tried to stay as close as I could to them, figuring I might be able to do some damage at Deviation. Kim Cook repassed me, I felt like I was going backwards at one point late along Black Range a fact bore out by my split at the campground of 3.40, two minutes down on last year. Oh well hang on and see what happens.
Deviation wasn’t too bad and I seemed to get a second wind, passing Kim and then Rod but then on the final climb to the road was passed by Tall Geoff who was running uphill! Hmm great stuff I thought to myself, good for him. I knew I could run hard from the road and just as I arrived there I unknowingly passed Sarge as he stopped for refreshment. 4.02 and 2 minutes down on PB pace, I was thinking a 4.42 finish.
I know this section only too well to know that if you run hard for the last 7 kms there are a lot of places to be made up. I saw Mick in the distance and reeled him in; he was having a great debut run. I thought about who was left from the beer betters and realised that Geoff was likely the front runner but was way out of sight.
Passed Jenolan Cabins overtaking a couple more runners and then out onto the final few climbs. I ran as much as I could knowing I could really smash myself on the final descent. I longed for it. As soon as the trail dropped I leaned forward and put on the afters. It felt fantastic to pass as many as 12 runners along here especially down the singletrack Mt George firetrail. Not long before Charlottas Arch I spotted the tall gangly frame of TallGeoff, I was gaining fast and and knew I had him.
I finished in 4.41, so 2 minutes outside the PB and second fastest time for the course.
Despite the slower finish time, I managed to finish 6 places higher than last year but it was the racing element of this year’s run that added so much to the experience.

Great idea Rod, hopefully I can get some of the action officially next year where I might actually train specifically for the race and try and get under that 4.30 mark.

Thanks KT and the RFS and well done all, especially Tall Geoff and Terry for their stellar runs and all the beer betting crazies. Too much fun.


Splits:

Nellies-13:41
Mega-42:47
River-1.21:17
LemonTree-1.46:12
Mini-1.57:38
Alum-2.06:46
Pluvi-2.43:16
Dev-3.40:13
Caves Rd-4.02:27
Finish-4.41:14

Coast to Kosciusko Ultra Marathon 2008

As promised the much belated C2K 2008 race report.

Coast to Kosciusko Ultra Marathon 2008

This is it, the big one. This is the race a lot of runners on the ultra scene aspire to running and for those that have ran it before, they look for ways to improve on their times from previous years or are simply delighted to get to the start line once more. It’s an awesome way to round off the year. The coming together of our small but ever growing ultra running family.

The competition up front was hot this year with Tim Cochrane back to defend his title along with Jo Blake (a well credentialed runner and multi representative for Australia at 100km) popping his hat into the ring for a debut bout with the mammoth. Untested over 100kms though it could get very interesting. There were some other runners capable of a pointy end finish but again untested over the distance, Travis Trout Wayth who runs a speedy 100km and hails from an Ironman background could stir the pot. Add “Doc Loc” Lachlan Fraser, also coming off a stellar year into the mix. Then there is the usual suspects backing up from previous years…2006 winner Wayne “Dog” Gregory, Kevin “Brick” Heaton (4th last year) and NSW’s very own version of Kelvin Marshall- the well travelled and experienced Michael “Milov” Lovric and yours truly.
In total 24 starters with 11 first timers and a total of 5 ladies. The scene was set for a fabulous weekend running from “sea to summit”.

We all gathered on the eve of the race at the Fisherman’s Club in the small coastal town of Eden. Race director Paul ably assisted by partner Diane put on a feast and so with full bellies and last minute course instructions ringing in our ears, we retired for the usual restless night.

A beautiful still morning dawned with some light cloud cover at Twofold Bay, the start line for our adventure. Crews scurried around runners making last minute checks, a round of photos and we were off shortly after 5.30 am.
My crew this year once again was “Bangers and mash” Scott “Sub 50” Howells and Chris “Hamburglar” Yates. I was delighted to have them back again and knew the experience gained from last year would be invaluable out there. The value of a good crew cannot be underestimated. The plan was relatively simple. I would assess how I felt through the first 50 odd kms pace wise and try and put a dent into my 100km and 100 mile times. With some time in the bank and a stronger run/walk/shuffle from Jindabyne, I could hopefully knock some time off the PB of 33.07.
We took a bike along this year too, with the boys hoping to use it for some pacing later on. I did however instruct them that there would be no “muling” of provisions whatsoever. I would carry all my drinks and food whilst running. Although there is no rule stipulating this I just felt more comfortable with these terms.
Crew would stop every 4-5kms or so and have food and drinks ready. No stopping, grab and go was the creed. Constant forward motion…

I enjoyed the first few hours a heck of a lot more than last year with the cooler, less humid conditions making running seem effortless. The undulating first marathon through the Towamba valley is wonderful as it rolls along the rivers edge. I hit the (somewhat misplaced and long) 42km marker in 4.08, a good 14 minutes up on last year. I was probably in 5th position at this stage with Tim and Jo way up front and Dog and Lachlan behind them. I was surprised with the quick start from Doc Loch and Dog but was sticking to my pace plan and not getting involved in any early racing.

It wasn’t long before I arrived at the foot of the climb up Big Jack and I was now 30 minutes up on last year’s time. The cooler conditions were wonderful even when it rained periodically and I loved it. I enjoy the climb each year and made good steady progress up the mountain. I think it was along here that AngelicOne spun by winding his window down to say g’day. The boys were stopping a bit more frequently now of course and I was mixing Sustagen with water and some solid food at each stop. I wore my Nathan fuel belt this year and it was a big hit, in fact I dumped the handheld in preference to it. One bottle with sportsdrink and the other water, was working well.

The temperature was dropping now and so I opted for the spray jacket with increasing rain. The climb flattened out on the plateau above and along here I put the head down and ran hard to Cathcart. When I arrived Dog’s crew Sarge and Bernie were still there about to leave and informed me Dog was only 7-8 minutes ahead or so.
Chris and Scott had bought me a hot vegie pie upon arrival, which went down a treat. I ate half and saved the rest for further up the road. Crew were working really well and I was spending minimal amounts of time exchanging water bottles and getting some fuel on board. In fact I was not stopping at all…again constant forward motion…



I continued to run well crossing the Monaro Hwy still over 30 minutes up on last year. In the distance I spotted Lachlan and before long I had pulled up alongside him as our crews leapfrogged each other. We ran together for a while and then he pulled away for a few kms only for me to catch him again as he was having some chaffing issues, I think. It was raining quite hard I remember along here, so very different to previous runs where you could look across the wide open expanse, the clouds were now hugging the landscape. So I was now sitting in 4th position and according to Lachlan, Dog surged and was now putting time into us.


My feet were wet but not uncomfortable and although I had planned on a sock and lube stop at 100kms I decided to forge on. The dead tree came and went in 11.03, so now 54mins in the bank. I looked back and pictured the photo the boys took of this exact spot 12 months prior. It was my office computer desktop picture of choice for the whole year, my inspiration to do well here again. How different the 2 pictures were today.


The next section along the previously named Dalgety Rd was interesting. Even though there was a lot of road works happening as they were sealing sections of the dirt road, I don’t remember the road undulating so much. Right up to and beyond Allan Caldwell bridge over the McLoughlin river, I felt like I was on a different road altogether. My plan was to stop for tea here, as we did last year but I was over an hour ahead of projections and so continued. I can’t remember where exactly but we did eventually stop but it was way further up the road. I was cold when I stopped; it was the first time in 13hrs or so. I was in and out in 5-6 mins feeling a lot better, my crew were super efficient. I stopped again about an hour later to change clothes.

As dusk fell I decided to pop my ipod on for the first time. I am normally not a big fan of music in my ears while I run but felt it might help with the monotony of the run into Dalgety. Well it did, as I ran quite well along here. Colin pulled up alongside, I last saw him as I was climbing Big Jack. He mentioned Brick was about 5kms behind or so and that Lachlan had fallen off the pace. Kerrie was running strong and making her way through the field. It was good to get an update on what was going on behind me. At this stage most of the field is well strung out, each runner fighting their own battle with the mammoth.

Meantime I was enjoying all sorts from a smorgasboard of musical selection. I basically dumped all my mp3 files onto the ipod and hit shuffle, every song a new surprise. Not sure what was going on but I was way too happy coming into Dalgety. Doctor Billy asked me how I was feeling head to toe, ranking myself out of 10. I replied 9. That’s honestly how good I was feeling. I didn’t stop, just grabbed a cup of soup and as Paul escorted me across the Snowy River bridge I took off into the night leaving my crew behind. Of course my happiness was soon shot to pieces when my crew finally caught up to me only to inform me that I had taken the wrong fork in the road leading out of Dalgety. I stayed left and should have taken the right (less obvious) road. Bugger!
Scott reckoned I was about a km up the wrong road, so 2k all up. Stupid stupid.
Anyhow, made it back to the intersection quick smart. Of course I’m running harder at this stage coz I stuffed up. Scott decided to run with me as he was worried I would run too hard trying to make up for lost time and warned me to cool it else I pay the price later, he was right, so I backed off.

I hit the 100-mile mark at the base of the Beloka range in 18.40 (a PB for the distance) and a good 1hr50min up on last year. The climb was brutal and I definitely struggled more than I did last year, least I felt so. But I knew once at the top I had a good long winding downhill into Jindabyne. The sky was amazing, there was some scattered cloud about that made the temperature a bit milder and a bright full moon glowing, lighting up the night. I didn’t bother using my headlamp at all, it was so much better running without. Every now and again I spotted the crew cars of Joe and Dog off in the distance. The long winding road coming off the Beloka Range allowed this, but I never felt like I was closing in on them. My crew reported that Dog had overtaken a tired looking Jo for second place and was flying. I didn’t expect to see him again….

I always figured on a dawn arrival into Jindy but this time I was way ahead of schedule and so after a couple of really good night running hours, (it was around 3am) I approached Jindabyne.
As I roared (all relative really, but sure felt that way) down the hill to the roundabout coming into Jindy itself I noticed Dog’s crew pulled up in the distance. At first I thought I had just closed the gap on him and his crew were about to leave, but as I drew closer I realised it was Dog infact still there with Sarge and Bernie.
Something was wrong I figured or he was just goog through a bad patch. I was smoking’ in the purple haze of my running high and so accelerated down the hill, through the roundabout and straight onto the bike path skirting the lake. I had planned on stopping here and when Chris asked me if I wanted to pullover and change my socks as planned I shook my head and said, no way. I’m in race mode now and wanna put as big a gap as I can into Dog. J.
I ran hard around the lake, through the caravan park and up the first hill, still enjoying a rather good patch. Looking back there was no sign of Dog, so I figured now that I’m in race mode I can possibly catch Jo who had re-taken Dog for second place. My calorie intake was high as the boys kept feeding me; the regularity of our stops makes this one race where you shouldn’t have too many energy fluctuations if you are eating well. I was enjoying fruit and Sustagen again into the early morning. The sun rose over the still road and with it my spirits lifted but I knew what lay ahead. A long undulating road that just isn’t forgiving on sore muscles. The weather started taking a change for the worst not long after and the wind kicked up. I pulled the spray jacket on again and just plugged away concentrating on running as much of the rises as I could. I was still way ahead of last years pace but that soon changed. Within the space of an hour or so the weather really turned nasty. The wind kicked up even more now and I was finding it difficult to find any sort of running rhythm.


Scott and Chris were doing a great job trying to encourage me but I knew they too were just not enjoying this shitty turn of events. I can’t recall too much about the ski fields Smiggins and Perisher except all I wanted was to get to the top and back down as soon as I could. My spray jacket was totally inadequate for the conditions and only for Chris lending me his spare jacket I would almost certainly have recorded a dnf.

There was no sign of Jo’s crew although I think we did see them once along those long sweeping roads in the distance. Not long after Paul and Diane turned up informing us that the race would finish at Charlottes because of the weather. Only 10 minutes earlier I’d mentioned to Scott that I was doubtful we would be summiting.
Upon being informed of this decision, I was initially disappointed as I was on for a smoking PB for the full course, but it was the right decision. Curiously, what did happen thereafter was a total drop in my concentration level and focus. I was no longer looking to chase anyone down and wasn’t arsed about finish times anymore. I just wanted to finish this thing off and get some heat into the bones again.

At times for the next several hours we were literally blown off the side of the road, such were the conditions. I have been in some strong gale force winds growing up in Ireland but this was ridiculous. The rain was biting too, icy cold and it bloody hurt as it tried to split your face open. The kms were ticking away but very slowly until at last after what seemed like an eternal final 5kms we pulled into Charlottes. There was no one around only the 2 blokes in rain gear recording finish times. I stoped the clock in 28hrs and 47 minutes elapsed time, a long way from the serene beauty of Twofold bay to the rugged harshness of the Snowy Mountains. This was a very special C2K, one that all those involved will never forget.


Thanks Paul and Diane for once again putting on such a majestic run. My crew Scott and Chris, you crazy bastards were simply awesome and without your efficiency and support I would never have pulled that run out of the bag. Thanks guys.




Results:

1 Tim Cochrane 27:19:18 1
2 Jo Blake 27:38:44 2
3 Phil Murphy 28:49:23 3
4 Wayne Gregory 30:10:43 4
5 Kevin Heaton 30:41:56 5
6 Michael Lovric 31:58:57 6
7 Lachlan Fraser 32:48:05 7
8 Kerrie Bremner 33:08:04 1
9 Rodney Ladyman 33:56:27 8
10 Tim Turner 34:31:35 9
11 Kim Cook 35:05:30 10
12 Lisa Spink 35:20:27 2
13 Marie Doke 36:27:18 3
14 (4F) Allison Lilley 38:00:58 4
15 Glenn Lockwood 39:17:28 11
16 Louis Commins 40:29:04 12
17 Jan Herrmann 41:26:00 13
18 Brett Saxon 42:30:50 14
19 David Billett 42:41:10 15
DNF Robert Boyce 194km
DNF Travis Wayth 182km
DNF Andrew Hewat 153km
DNF Malcolm Gamble 147km
DNF Richard McCormick 147km

Challenges

It's been a while since I last blogged. Not that I haven't been training and racing, just not blogging as regularly. Still slowly putting together a race report for C2K, at this rate it'll be finished in time for this year's run. Bogong to Hotham was a fun weekend with mates, very much enjoyed running with Mellum and of course the biggest news is that we finally got our shit together to give the AAWT a bash, in fact only 8 more sleeps. This challenge excites me like no other, the toughness of what we are about take on is not to be taken for granted either, averaging 40-45kms a day for 14 days with about half of them hauling heavy packs will be tough..real tough.Thanks to Kath and UCB's crewing though, we will have access to Andy's mothership for vital replenishment and a change of clothes every now and again. Andy has been working tirelessly on logistics and spending a lot of his time studying topo maps plotting our course. If the weather Gods are kind and the bodies hold up we could do it, and be the first to cover the entire AAWT in 14 days. Giddyup!

More big news. I finally have a focus for the year after AAWT. I luckily snagged a spot in this years Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc 100 miler in France, late August.
I have been eyeing off this run the past few years and this year the stars have aligned for me to get over there and give it a bash. With almost 2300 runners last year, this event is the biggest ultra in Europe and one of the big ones on ultra runners' wish lists. 166kms of trails around Mont Blanc and 9400mtrs of climb. I am rapt!

2008 Running Review

2007 (with Western States) was a great year for me, so backing up and trying to go one better in 2008 was always going to be difficult.
This is how it went.

January:
Return to the snowy mountains and Bogong to Hotham-64km. Tough run after C2K, ran with mellum, had a blast, but definitely not racing with lots of residual fatigue from C2K.
Resumed 6FT training with the now traditional Blue Mountains Australia Day fatass run near Glenbrook (Glenbrook Gallop), 40 odd kms of solid training with some superb views.

February:

Quiet month with some training on the Old Great North Rd at Wisemans Ferry.

March:

A surprising PB at the 6FT Track Marathon-45km in 4.39 and a tough 60km fatass run along the Old Great North Rd trail.
Also covered 46kms recce of the North Face trail with a few others, great day out.

April:

Canberra Marathon/50km Ultra. Paced the 4hr mara and then finished the 50km ultra in 4.37.
Hellgate Gorge Fatass Run-46km 5.41


May:

Wild Endurance 104km (1st team in 16.03) Great event, loved it.
North Face 100km Solo- Finished 21st in 13.48. Ran with a bad cold but finished well after struggling early on.

June:

Poormans Comrades 96km- Finished 5th in 9.17
Also ran an out and back along Woodford to Glenbrook on race day. 2.30 out and 1.57 back.

July:

Trailwalker training on the course a couple of weekends.
M7 Marathon- paced the 4hr group.

August:

12 Foot Track/City to Surf with 11.14 (12FT,4th place)and 66min C2S.
Willy to Billy (36km)trail run - 2.56
Sydney Trailwalker 100km- finished 5th placed team in 15.52

September:

Glasshouse Mountains 100 mile trail- finished 2nd for the 3rd year in a row in 19.43, delighted with this run.
Sydney Marathon - Paced 3.45 group.

Oct:

GNW training with runs along the trail between CP1 and CP3.
Blue Labyrinth Fatass 41km. Great to get back to this run, probably the best trail through the Blue Mountains


November:

Great North Walk 100 miler mile trail. Finished 3rd after losing about an hour all up getting lost. Delighted to peg back a podium finish.

December:

Coast To Kosciusko 222km (shortened course) in 28.49
Finished 3rd overall. Race shortened because of inclement weather at Charlotte's. Was 2hrs+ up on last years splits at Jindy, on track for a big PB. Rapt to podium.

So all up 13 ultras and 2 marathons. A very pleasing year. I did have some injuries, in particular psoas troubles early in the year but none that stopped me running, so can't complain.

Delighted to finish my third Trifecta (GH, GNW and C2K) with 3 podiums against some stiff competition. It's getting tougher as these events become more popular but I'm lovin it.

Thanks for the support along the way bloggers.

2009 should be interesting.

Training update

It was pointed out to me last week that I am a bit tardy updating the blog. True, but it does get a tad repetitive at times ie ran some and then ran some more.. yadda...
Ok to continue this tradition, here is what I have been doing since GNW.
I have again been focusing on recovery, looking to be as fresh as possible for C2K. So the week after GNW was very easy with 35kms of easy running and 25kms on the bike.
Last week I go back into it with double days both Monday and Thursday topping out with 108kms for the week. My hamstrings have been giving me grief, coupled with a tight piriformis, so daily stretching and rolling around on a tennis ball have been helping out there. I am feeling stronger every day, so another big week this week and then I'll taper off once more for the big one. Can't wait to get back to C2K and try and finish off the triple Trifecta.

Great North Walk 100s Report 2008

The conditions aren’t that bad, ok it’s fairly humid but where have my climbing legs gone? This is pretty much what I was saying to myself during the first 50kms of the GNW 100 miler at the weekend. I was feeling fresh going into it having not run for a week and a half, nursing piriformis/sciatica issues, so really I should have been flying?
I set off from Teralba in the third lead group along the boring first 6kms of bitumen to the trailhead at Wakefield. Breathing was laboured and I was already sweating heaps. Early signs for what lay ahead?
I looked forward to the trail, as did Graham Ridley who once on it scampered away into the distance up the first incline.
I was hauling 3ltrs and another 600ml in my fuel belt so the weight was an added burden, but I needed it as I sweated profusely in the humidity.
My plan for the day was to go as close to last year’s time as possible and maybe try and sneak under. I knew I ran a good race last year in great conditions, so it would be difficult to top, but ya never know lest you try, right.
The rainforest section to MacLean’s lookout was hard work and the climb to the hugging post near killed me and so it was on tired legs that I hobbled into CP1. Mal was flying as was Kim, and we were tightly grouped at this early stage. Time to recover a little on the flats to Barraba and try and get some food in. I felt marginally better but still no mojo. At one point I was sure I was running in one big circle, for whatever reason my bearings were out too. The views just before the drop into the Congewai Valley helped ease my malaise and I was thankful for the cooler conditions. Once on the road I was almost immediately attacked by a magpie, great just what I needed. I could just make out the silhouette of Maggot up ahead and tried to chase him down but never really closed the gap.
Dog appeared sporting a wounded paw just as I reached the school. He relayed what had transpired and I shook my head in disbelief and wished him well.
I looked forward to a decent stop here, as I needed to recover somewhat for the climb up to the Communications tower. I quickly tucked into my second tin of creamed rice and thanks to SMC42k, poured a cold drink down too. There were still a few runners about as I left so I was holding place relatively, even though I felt like crap.
That section of road is just so shite, I wished we could find some alternate trail somewhere. I came across Rachel and Marie shortly before I reached the Glenagra farm, both looking like they were duking it out. Milov also appeared and graciously handed me my map I’d dropped earlier.
The climb up to the tower was a lot better than I feared and with a better headspace I took off along Cabans Rd, hoping my trough was over for the day. I found good momentum mixing a solid powerwalk with running and soon caught up to Kim Cook. We also passed another runner, not sure who he was or whether he was a 100 miler or 100ker. I was in a much better space now, breaking down the remainder of this section to the Basin. I knew the road gradually dropped with a nice long descent to the dead end just before the drop to the farm at Watagan Creek. Just before the end of Cabans Rd we caught up to Dog who appeared to be going through a low spell. I nudged ahead just before the singletrack and then smashed it to the bottom. This was probably the best I’d felt all day so I thoroughly enjoyed the switchbacks to the creek.
We regrouped at the water drop, Joel left just as we arrived. Dog took off having found a second wind and flew up the climb, I tried staying with him but was struggling on the hill again. Kim and Mal were not far behind. I was chugging back fluids like crazy and so was glad for the water drop. Upon levelling out I found a better pace again and soon enough I could see Dog and Joel together not far ahead. I tried picking it up in the hope that their company would help pass the time. After a good trot along the Bar Trail I caught Joel. Dog was well ahead now, running very well. Joel and I stayed together towards the Basin, at one point stopped in our tracks by what looked like some kind of python. As we approached the Basin Joel pulled away, he was obviously much stronger than I. Pipi appeared on his way out as I arrived, having run very strongly thus far. The Basin was a very different place to last years leech fest and soon I was tucking into some wonderful veggie soup and another creamed rice. (results showed I ran the fastest section 2-3 in the 100 miler, nice)
Dog was still there having his hand seen to, as was Graham who was on a blinder in the 100km till he decided to run the long way into the Basin!
I didn’t hang around long and when Joel showed up looking to see if I was ready to go we left. He soon pulled away on the climb as I tried to process the food I had just scoffed down. We saw numerous runners on their way in, including Rachel, Maggot and Milov, all still fairly close. I was now in third and delighted to be competitive given my earlier form. I still couldn’t climb for shit but I was getting there. At the top of the climb out of the Basin I saw Joel attending a runner. As I approached I realised it was Pipi. He was not looking too good after getting sick. I gave him some salt tablets and after he assured us he was ok we took off. This is where we stuffed up. Knowing we had a right turn coming up and momentarily distracted we took the wrong one, down Bob’s Point Rd. Halfway down it we started to wonder whether we had in fact taken a wrong turn. The compass reading was good and the topo had drop offs either side, so remarkably like Kingtree Ridge. Anyhoo we stupidly continued looking/praying for that GNW sign post. A good 20minutes later we came to a dead end at the bottom of a long descent. Bugger! Shit! Turn around and retrace your footsteps. We were quite enjoying being in joint first place but know it was a game of catch up. Joel flew off into the distance, as I struggled to regain composure. At this point it’s easy to resolve yourself to just getting it finished and forgetting about being competitive. Having worked hard for hours, to so easily give it up was very disappointing. However no point sulking, shit happens and this is the race it happens in I told myself. Just keep plugging away and see what eventuates.

I didn’t see anybody again until I reached Cedar Brush Rd and the long haul into Yarramalong. I worked hard to get to the road and was feeling flat again when I noticed Graham was just ahead struggling with blistered feet. He was almost home though and despite his pain, still in good spirits. I asked him who was in front having no idea who had passed me during my “detour” He replied “everybody”. Bugger!
I tried to settle into a rhythm along Ravensdale Rd and make up some lost time, but this meant I arrived at Yarramalong well and truly buggered. As I arrived in the town I saw Kim and Joel leaving with their pacers. I was at least 20-25 minutes behind factoring in my stop there.
I knew my pacer Scott would have been wondering where I was, having arrived almost an hour later than expected but I needed to regroup and get some much-needed fuel in. Rachel was sat just across from me tending to her feet and still in good spirits. Mal had finished the 100km in 2nd place and looked well chuffed or was that look of relief that it was all over J. I was doing my best to not look how I felt.

I scoffed some food, changed Garmins and with Scott’s help was on the road again reasonably quickly. I love running at night and look forward to this part every year. However it took me a while to get going once more as I digested the food. Rachel joined us and together we followed Scott through the night, running when we could and walking when we couldn’t. It was a beautiful night with the stars poking through the scattered clouds and quite warm, no need for extra layers. Scott was doing a fine job pulling us along and we had a nice pace going in patches where it was runnable.

It was somewhere in the bush before the climb out to the trail that leads to the unmanned water stop when we pulled away from Rach. I had a second wind and started climbing a tad faster than previously. As we pulled into the water stop we saw Kim and pacer just leaving. We didn’t stop for long, a quick refill and we were on our way. We soon caught and passed Kim who was now battling his own demons along the nice single-track down to the creek.
Scott was still pulling me along quite briskly and before we knew it we were crossing Ourimbah Creek and making our way towards Ourimbah Creek Rd and the climb up onto the Somersby Plateau. I felt we’d made good time here and the results show we ran the second fastest time to the school. 9 mins later and we were on our way into the darkness once more. I looked behind and saw Rachel arriving as we left. Again I needed a little time to digest the food and mixed walking with trotting to the end of Silvester’s Rd. Once back in the bush we were moving along quite well. I had some waves of tiredness sweep over me as we trundled along Mooney Creek to the crossing but nowhere near as bad as when I was on the road sections, where you can so easily switch off mentally. The crossing was unmanned this year but ably navigated thanks to some glowsticks strategically placed to ensure a dry crossing to the trailhead on the other side.
As we approached the roaring F3 freeway overhead my mind started playing tricks again as I was certain we were going around in a big loop. At one stage it felt like we were running away from the freeway and this worried me, but rest assured we were on the right trail and all was good.

I felt better once I had some more food and enjoyed the stop at Mooney, what a magical little oasis that is. I had a good 10 minute stop here and enjoyed some fruitcake and an Up and Go for breakfast. No sign of anyone from behind as we left I was sure I had a big enough gap now to hold on to my position in the race.
The trail along Piles creek was beautiful at dawn as my senses awoken from their slumber. With around 5hrs of running still to be had we were still a long way from home. As we climbed up the first rise after the bridge we were treated to the most beautiful setting moon, red glowing off on the horizon. This helped as I was again struggling on the climbs, breathing heavily and having to stop every once in a while to recover. Once a top the sandstone plateau we ran well to Scopas Peak, back down to Myron Brook and then up to the water stop at Staples Lookout. It feels like it takes forever though to reach that water stop. The views are awesome and the walking track that skirts Wondabyne impressive. However, on tired legs it’s hard sometimes to stop and take it all in. All one thinks about is getting this thing done and reaching that elusive goal and the sand at Patonga Beach. I’ve run this section 4 years in a row now and it still looks different every year. It must be the state of mind you are in after 24hrs of running. Thankfully it is well marked and I never felt like we were lost.
The slog to Patonga went reasonably well with some decent running spells. I was convinced I had 3rd place sown up with no sign of anyone as far as the eye could see.
At Warrah Trig I recalled my mate Tony from work saying if you get a chance go and check out the lookout, it’s only 30 mtrs or so off the trail. I was too buggered to comtemplate it and thankfully as things transpired with Rachel on my hammer, I’m glad I didn’t.
I looked back all the way to Patonga Drive, no signs of anyone. Realising I could break 28hrs I put in a surge on the downhill running hard until we popped up on the beach. This is most definitely one of the best experiences in ultra running, finally stepping onto that beach. I thanked Scott for his solid pacing job before bending down and smooching the post. 27.47, not bad, I would have PB’ed if I hadn’t gone bush but them’s the breaks…next year.
Rachel appeared finishing strongly just a minute behind me. I was astounded, where did she come from? I still shake my head in disbelief.

Thanks to Dave and the Terrigal Trotters, this run has now become the most popular trail 100 in the country.

Thanks to Scott once again for his faultless pacing.

Looking forward to C2K now and my first race in the new age group. :)

Blue Labyrinth Fatass Run-40km

Nice way to end the week with a fatass run up and over Mt Solitary. This was one of my first fatass runs back in 2003, it was sooo good to get back there. This is the mini report I posted to CR.

The most excellent trail run around.
I thoroughly enjoyed Saturdays adventure. There is something awesome about the road less travelled up Solitary. We had no problems whatsoever finding the trail from Kedumba, it is much more defined than when I last ran it in 2003. Lots of good memories came flooding back once we hit the climb proper, I swear parts of that incline are at least 50 degrees! Great fun, we were all on a runners high once we topped out. We somehow missed the log book but managed to find the best sandstone platform overlooking the valley towards Katoomba for brunch. Lots of wonderful wildflowers about and once on the other side we managed to cut straight through the middle of the Ruined Castle rather than around it, which made for some precarious descents. The Federal Pass trail (as those that ran NF or WE can attest to) is a trail runners dream. We ran from Ruined Castle pretty much all the way to Leura Forest at a good clip thanks to Tom's pace setting. The traverse back along the valley to Kedumba walls was a tad more sedate, enjoying the rolling terrain and the final slog out. Magic!

Thanks Ross and Jill for the brekky and jerry can water drop (huge effort!!), very much appreciated.

Total ascent=2523m

GNW Training

Had a good week last week with a nice long hitout on the GNW trail on Saturday.
With GNW fast approaching I thought I might try and get a few higher intensity and mileage weeks in, so I upped my weekday mileage and pace.
Went up to Lake Macquarie with the family for the long weekend and so took advantage of location and got a nice hard hitout in from Congewai (CP2) towards the Basin (CP3) return. All up 36kms with 3 big climbs in 4.44. I did the same run a couple of years ago and just looking back at my logs the pace then was 8:53/km this year 8:10, nice.
It was hot and humid too so good training benefit.
All up 112kms for the week, I need a few more of the same to get in shape for a PB tilt at GNW.

Glasshouse Mountains 100 Mile 2008 Race Report

Glasshouse Mountains 100 Mile 2008

Sometimes it’s the races that you least expect to run well at that turn out to be some of your better ones.I was delighted with the result given the conditions and the fact that I was very nearly not going to be running it at all.

My approach this year was to try and stay with the pace I set last year over the first 100kms and then try to bring it home over the eastern section a tad faster for a sub 19.30. I worked out some splits for the revised course (which I figured would be faster given the Hamburger Hill traverse was taken out 3 times).
I may have been slightly optimistic given I still had Trailwalker in the legs but figured this is the course to try and belt out a faster time, the runners’ 100 miler.

I settled into a brisk pace alongside Milov and Innes for the 10km loop around Beerburrum. Dave, Dog and Nigel were just ahead but soon out of sight running what seemed like a crazy pace for a 100 miler, well not for Dave of course. J

Milov proceeded to crack some really bad jokes so I upped the pace as we neared the track leading up to Beerburrum. J I pulled away on the climb enjoying the early morning rays for what would turn out to be quite a warm and humid day.
With my name ticked off at the top I descended a lot faster than last year thanks to the grip afforded by my Montrail Continental Divides. It can get quite slippery along here especially when damp leaf litter is about. I was indecisive about wearing them beforehand, given my limited runs in them, but was very comfortable in them on the day.

I caught John Lindsay on the way to 3 as we trundled along the nice singletrack south of Tunbubudla (the twins). It was not long after arriving at 3 where I started to feel a bit flat. I tried munching on a vegemite sandwich, which helped a little, but I was definitely struggling early on. Way too early into a 100 miler I thought. I knew once I did the right things though, and ate and drank as often as I could I would soon come good.

The trail up to 4 is pretty benign, flat and makes for good running. A quick stop at the CP and off again to 5 and some gnarlier trail. Dave (UCB) was crewing me as well as playing cameraman for the day, so he helped ensure I was in an out of the CPs as quickly as possible, thanks mate.

But still I struggled, I was slow through the following section 5-6 the goat track, well behind last years splits and as it got warmer I felt the need for more calories. I wasn’t having too much trouble getting the food in, but today fruit was not quite packing a punch and I need my creamed rice. I stupidly neglected to put a drop at 6 and with the double visit there that was my biggest mistake of the day. Sportsdrink and gus only go so far.
I was fully expecting to be caught from behind and indeed as I left 6 on the way to the powerlines and 8, I glanced over my shoulder and saw Milov and someone else (Rachel?) arriving at the checkpoint. This spurred me on and gave me the incentive I needed to get over my malaise and push the pace. I settled back into a better groove and it wasn’t long before I reached the road crossing just before the powerlines. I was actually looking forward to them as I wasn’t enjoying the constant flat or rolling terrain. I got through them fairly well and at one point had Rachel on my hammer. She is so strong on the rough stuff. Again my shoes performed admirably here, I was rapt with the grip and protection.
CP 8: This is where the race makes or breaks you in my mind. It’s hot, there’s two long loops ahead of you and if you are having a good day you can make up a few places here or it can end your run as it did for a number of runners this year. Luckily the former is how it panned out for me. After a good stop and a can of creamed rice at 8, I left there feeling like a million bucks again. I picked up Dog who was struggling on the western 8a loop along the disused flat rail bed and ran well all the way as far as the hills at the back of the loop. I was now feeling the best I had all day, a good time to come good I figured.
On the middle section back into the CP Dave caught up from behind coming off his second loop. We chatted for a bit before he took off up the hill. I now had 2nd placed Nigel in my sights and soon caught him as we approached 8.
Once back at the CP, I quickly skulled a bottle of powerade whilst Veggie and UCB filled my pack ( I decided to use the pack on the loops this year and was glad I did as it got pretty hot out there), grabbed some fruit and left for the second loop just as Martin Shot arrived. Where did he come from? Nigel and I walked up the big hill eating with Martin not that far behind. Once at the top I hammered it downhill with Nigel just behind but soon began to wonder if we’d missed a turn. There was no tape and I didn’t remember that house with the barking dog? I looked behind for Martin, he was nowhere to be seen? Shit maybe we had indeed stuffed up. Surely not, there is only one trail right? We continued down the hill until at last we caught glimpse of some tape. Noice. I was relieved; I really didn’t want to have to go back up that hill again.

I now pulled away from Nigel and was alone again enjoying the surrounds. As I arrived at the turn back north to CP8 I noticed Susannah coming off her western loop. She was just ahead of me but I couldn’t close the gap as she ran a blinder all the up the hill back to 8, very impressive! I did catch up to Nic Maloney and together we powerwalked our way back to the checkpoint.

Once again I didn’t hang around too long thanks to Bro. I was quickly weighed (down a kilo) and soon on my way to 7. I figured this was a good flat stretch and a great opportunity to put a gap into the chasing pack. As I crossed Raens Rd I met Jan on his way to 8, looking happy enough. The trail off the road to 7 was delightful. I really appreciated getting out of the sun onto the shady singletrack. Back into a groove and tapping out a rather brisk pace I was in happyland once again.

CP7 was great, I always enjoy the food there, no need for a drop bag. Bro was videoing again and Ladyjove talking some snaps. The 4.4km loop at 7 was flat as and I made reasonable progress back into the CP. As I left for 7 on the long downhill I noticed Martin arriving. In fact he was never that far behind me for a lot of the following few CPs.
The run up to 6 is my favourite part of the entire course. The views out to Beerwah, the eroded track loop at Beerwah, love it. I was starting to feel stronger and stronger as the heat of the day dissipated and a cooler breeze kicked up. This was a good sign for my plans to run a faster eastern section.

With my energy levels on the rise I passed the 3rd placed 100km runner on the way to 5. I was now looking forward to more calories and that meant more creamed rice at the CP.
Martin was still close, about 15 minutes behind me apparently. I left 5 sharply and ran the welcome downhill past the lookout, back onto some nice trail and across Gympie Rd. I now had BrisMatt (2nd place in the 100km) in my sights and was slowly gaining on him. It wasn’t until we hit the long stretch to 1A that I did catch him. We ran together for a few kms having a good chat and then I pulled away as we circled Beerburrum for the last time. It was just on twilight when I hit the 3.5kms to go sign back to Base. I turned on my headlamp and scampered through the rough stuff back to Base.
Tim (who had unfortunately dropped earlier), Dave and Veggie were there and had everything ready to go. I changed into a fresh top and wolfed down some pizza, my God that hit the spot. I stashed 3 slices into a ziplock bag and was soon off towards CP9 and the eastern section. Pizza and ultrarunning is gold, I felt like Dean Karnazes munching away as I ran along Steve Irwin Drive. In fact I ran the fastest time of the day for this section. J

As I arrived at 9 I dropped my pack off with Dave, retrieved my ticket and went straight up Wildhorse. I felt strong on the climb still enjoying my calorific high.
The view out west from the top was inspirational with the volcanic plugs silhouetted against the darkening sky. I could have stayed there a while longer easily. I dropped my ticket into the jar alongside Dave’s solitary donation. Upon returning to 9, I had a quick cup of coffee and left for 10. I remember this section was under water last year as I turned off the trail toward Jane’s awesome checkpoint. Not this year it was dry as.
Dave refilled my pack and I had Jane pour me a foam cup of pumpkin soup for the western loop. It wasn’t long out of 10 when I tripped ass over tit but managed to roll and save my foam cup of soup. I was way impressed, just a bit of trail grizzle coating the skin but what harm was that gonna do right?
There was a lot of talk about the loops at 10 and some infrequent trail marking, however I found it quite easy. You run anticlockwise and stay to the left looking for arrows and markers on the western loop and the opposite on the following clockwise loop staying to the right, too easy. As I was coming off the first loop I noticed Dave ahead flashing his light indicating the imminent CP. I stopped for some tasty dates at Jane’s banquet before shuffling off for the second loop. Apparently I was putting time into those behind me. I remember getting tired on the second loop, it is a tad boring out there by yourself and so I looked forward to the trip back to 9 and then home. I didn’t use my headlamp much on the loops at all, as the near full moon lit up the wide exposed trails. It was awesome running by moonlight only.

Back at 10 I stopped briefly for some more food, Dave managed to get more pizza, so I dumped a few more slices into my pockets. I bumped into several runners on my way back to 9, most still in good spirits. I weaved my way through several cane toads and at one point was startled by a lizard on hind legs frozen by the light of my headlamp.
Dave came out to meet me shortly before arriving at the CP once more. It was good to get gappers but it seemed at this stage I was quite secure in 2nd spot.
I dropped the camelbak to lighten the load for the final ascent of the day up Wildhorse. Blair who had been crewing with Dave joined me now and together the 3 of us climbed WH. Apparently some yobbos had driven around the boom gate at the bottom in their ute and proceeded to drive up to the top. There was some concern they might play silly biggers with the jar of tokens. They soon came down when they saw this lycra clad Irishman approaching looking all mean. J Truth is Geoff and the guys who drove up after them ushered them off the mountain.
The jar was untouched and I soon deposited my final token, glanced around briefly before heading back down. I was now very tired and wanted to get this thing done. I was way past looking at splits in fact I knew was 15mins down on my projections at Base, so at this stage I very much doubted I’d be PBing. Still I figured if I didn’t bludge too much on the way back to Base I could still go sub 20 which would be great.
And that’s how it panned out. I did bludge a little to be honest, knowing I had 2nd spot in the bag it was difficult to push hard for home. If I was being chased I’m sure I would have found the extra motivation though.

It’s a wonderful feeling that final few kms when you know you’ve smashed your body up as much as you could and came out on top. I ran hard into the school to a nice reception and stopped the clock in 19.43, just 4 mins slower than last year, well chuffed with that! Hung around for a bit then started to get very cold so thanks to some blankets from Dave I crashed out under the school awning for an hour.
I was awoken to cheers as 3rd place Martin Shott finished followed closely by Milov. I went over to congratulate them and then proceeded to feel like shit, dry reaching, the usual post GH affair. The only race this happens to me, guess it’s a result of relentlessly pushing the body all day. Glasshouse is an” easier” course than other 100 milers but that doesn’t mean you don’t smash yourself up running it.

Hanging around the following day with the “Glasshouse family” watching others coming in etc is a huge part of the weekend. There was a fair attrition rate too with 10 dnfs from 31 starters just proving how tough the conditions can make this run.
Thanks to Ian Javes, Caboolture Runners and all the volunteers for a wonderful race.
I hope to come back again to try and improve on my time.

Recovery

I love this photo...run yourself ugly!



Ran the Sydney marathon at the weekend, which was pretty cool. After a week of very little running post Glasshouse, just a few 5km runs, I paced the 3.45 group with Rod and we had a ball. I felt good all day and was pleasantly surprised I could hold pace easily enough. The CR cheer squad at the MCA was fantastic. What a lift you get running by those guys. I was angling for a leave pass to do the Fitzroy Falls mara at the weekend but thatlooks unlikely. To be honest a bludgy weekend will be good for the body. Might get stuck into some work round the house for a change.

Went for a trot today 10km in 47 minutes, felt great. Will try to focus on more consistent training (less racing) in the next month or so with GNW the goal now. Trails and lots of them.

Giddyup!!!!!!!!!!