The Great Glen Ultra 2018

5th of July 2015 I made my first ever steps on the Great Glen Way, which stretches from Fort William to Inverness and is roughly 71 miles long. At this time it was a massive jump up in miles for me, but I wanted to attempt the Great Glen Ultra. The longest race previously was 38 miles. I had a pretty good day, finishing in 12 hours 40 odd and managing to pick up 2nd place that day. This was beyond my wildest dreams at this time, and I knew on finishing that one day I'd return to run it better prepared. As you may or may not know, I ran a few ultras in 2016 which culminated in the Glenmore 24 hour, managing 130ish miles. Then I had a year off completely in 2017 due to the birth of my mad baby and getting hitched. I missed the long runs more than I thought and I was itching to get back to it.

2018

At the start of the year I still didn't have concrete plans as the races I do are very much dictated by my weekends off at work, but I knew the Great Glen had to make a come back. I love the BAM races that I've done and this is an amazing route. Controversial maybe, but I think this is a much better route than the West Highland Way. Flat and fast the first 30 miles and then three decent steep climbs before arriving in Inverness. If you look back to my Blackpool marathon blog, you'll see that training didn't go to plan at all due to illness. After this I managed a good 5 week stretch and was pretty happy with some new ideas that I was fitting in, and really feeling the benefit of these. However, Blackpoolitis struck again, and in what was to be my peak week I was struck down again. I had somehow managed to find myself with sepsis, which I am blaming entirely on being bitten by some Argyll insect while at work. Again this resulted in a zero mile running week. And again I could barely sit up without being forced to a lie back down again within a few minutes. I was given 2 weeks of a massive dose of antibiotics, and against doctors orders I started to train ever so slowly after a week. I felt pretty shit while doing so but not as shit as the cabin fever that I am ever so prone to. This took me up to the taper fortnight which is horrendous at the best of times. But...happy that I was actually running and able to get outside was great, and I was now happy that I would make the start line. Adding to the taper woes was the reality that I had again missed every proper long training run (see a pattern here) and that sucked more confidence from me and done more damage than that stupid Argyll midge had done.

So I was now turning up on race day not having ran more than 30 miles for a massive 22 months. It seemed like a massive jump up in miles yet again on this route. So again the task seemed daunting. I'd have been happy with one long run to settle the legs but it just wasn't to be. It's just the way life goes sometimes so I just had to suck it up buttercup. At least this time I would have a good bit of experience in my quiver which I could use to shoot down some problems I would no doubt encounter on the way.

Race eve

Different to 2015, we drove straight to Inverness and set up camp in the Bught campsite which is right beside the finish. Tent set up was hassle free. I then unsuccessfully chased sleep for an hour or so while the sun beat down on the tent. I then got things organised for my drop bags with the help of daughter number 1. Tailwind and bananas were going to be the order of the day along with the odd wee treat of nakd bars and oat bars. I'm all about the bananas when I run, despite hating them outwith running life. I can thank Mrs Shaw for this after force feeding me these during some race. They do the trick but they are rank. So everything organised and we headed off for the bus back to the start. Sleep eluded me on the journey back, so I'd just have to deal with being tired and ready for bed before the off. Not to worry. I opted to wear race shorts and vest with some Inov-8 Race Ultra Sleeves which I had unbelievably managed to find that fit my 8 year old size arms. Ultimate Direction Race Vest  to carry my gear, and finished off with Injinji toe socks and Mizuno Fresh Foam Zante to make sure my feet were comfy and blister free throughout. There was a wee hang around at registration which allowed me time to do my warm up routine and contemplate the long run ahead of me.

Photo by Jimmy Hyland Visuals

 Race start

I had a fairly clear plan of what pace I was going to run for the 1st 30 miles. After this I was just going to hang on if I could. Due to the lack of long runs I was unsure what would happen here so it appeared as good a plan as any to run the 30 at a pace I knew I could stick and then see how I felt. At 0100 hours off we went and my Garmin told me I was at 7:20 per mile pace. I was keeping an eye on my heart rate which was ideal about 140 bpm ish.  So far so good. I found myself at the front along with Rodger Sangster and Chris Harris. The pace suited me so we settled in and it was good to have some company for the first bit, albeit there was little talking. After about 7 miles you've to cross the canal. There was a swing bridge about this point, but no arrow and I was fairly confident the turn was a little further away. A look behind showed some headtorches on this bridge (everyone is always eager to make a turn) but rest assured a little further up the road Bill was on course to direct us over the correct turn. There was then a wee bit of trail and I slowed up and let Rodger and Chris move on ahead. Gavin Taylor then came past about this point and he was out of sight pretty quickly. It's always good to witness people moving so quickly. By this time the other runners were out of site too, and I enjoyed the quiet as I passed along the water. There was no breath of wind at all and even though it was dark the views were great. I passed checkpoint one where I picked up my banana and oats and I think I was passed by a runner at this time. I turned my head torch off at this point. It was still dark but the moonlight was enough and I really enjoy running in the dark trails with no light if it's safe to do so.

Photo by Jimmy Hyland Visuals

Between 10 and 20 miles I hit a massive low point and really started to struggle. I wasn't low on energy or anything, maybe I was just tired. But it was a real struggle to even keep my pace up at this point already. What a kick in the stones to feel so low so early in the race. Running breaks my heart so many times over and over again. I was genuinely gutted at this point and thought about throwing the towel in already. I just felt so let down by my body, which immediately responded by throwing up the banana and oats I'd just eaten. So much for not being sick throughout the race! As I said earlier I do have a good bit of experience now, so I knew it would pass as I just had to knuckle down and grind it out. I got into the checkpoint about 20 miles in, and just decided to get some more banana down me and I knew the low would pass. It always does. There was a climb right after this check point and I hiked it while eating my banana, which I promptly threw up again right away. I was in 3rd now and even though I wasn't bothering about position at this point it was good to keep a wee eye on it. About 25 miles in or so there was a good wee descent and this is where I started to feel good again. Even although my legs were right sore already. I knew they would be like this at this point in the race and I just made peace with that and blocked out the pain. I caught up with Rodger in 2nd place about this time just before we went onto the canal for the 5 mile stretch or so. I remember hating this bit in 2015 but it was unbelievable. The water was perfectly still, the sun was up and piercing through the mist above the water and it was great to see. It was without doubt one of the best sun rises I have ever seen. Time passed quickly and I was running some decent splits without digging too deep, and the canal section was done before I knew it.

Photo by Fiona Rennie

I got up to Fort Augustus and Ada told me that I was about 10 minutes behind 1st place, and while I was forcing banana down, told me not to be sick on her trainers. Seemed fair so I plodded round the corner and threw it up at the side of the road instead, almost in the exact same place as 2015!! Lucky enough this was the last I would be sick and I settled after that. I wasn't worried because I was still taking in a decent amount of calories, and wasn't losing loads while being sick and still felt good.

After about 33 miles or so was the first decent climb. I managed to take in some more calories and the tailwind was working a treat. I power hiked the steep bits, hands on knees effort which I always enjoy, and was feeling good enough to run the bits that weren't as steep. There wasn't much flat at the top and then it was down again. I didn't go too hard here as I wanted to save the quads for a bit later. I arrived in Invermoriston and had a wee seat on the camping chair there while the awesome marshalls filled my bottles and I ate more banana. I was told 1st place was about 10 minutes in front, and also that my chair had an ejector seat, so up I went and started the steep climb out of here. I really enjoyed the climb this year. Most of it was a power hike and it was decent to run this in sunshine instead of rain like it was in 2015. It did go on for longer than I remember but it was all good as I was enjoying grinding out a decent pace up the hills. Once at the top you can see the trail in front for what seems like miles. No sign of 1st place ahead and I just carried out the way I had been, still feeling good and getting some splits in that I was happy with. This section was the longest between the drop bags, and by now it was really starting to heat up. I had only tailwind, so I couldn't even pour that over me to cool things down a bit, and there were zero streams left on the hills to use. There was then another great descent which took up to a water only aid station. I was informed at this point that Gavin in 1st place had left exactly ten minutes ago so I didn't hang about. I remembered this next section clearly from the last time, and I knew it was short until the drop bag station. I then put in a bit of an effort on the downhills and was happy for the quads to take a beating now. I worked really hard on this stretch and was rewarded with a couple of 7:30s which I was delighted with. I thought if I was running this speed, then I was very unlikely to be caught, and hopefully I was putting a bit of time into the gap in front.

The left turn into Drumnadrochit lasted forever, and I was starting to convince myself I had went the wrong way. I just didn't remember it being so long before. I started to doubt myself and asked a few walkers if I was on the right way. The all looked at me like I had 3 heads. Clearly they didn't understand my accent so I just bumbled on and then thankfully seen the aid station. I was rewarded in here,by learning Gavin had left 5 mins in front, so I was delighted that I had managed to close the gap even though he wasn't in sight. I ran the next road section before the last climb and hoped to see him here because I knew there was some good views in front. Not to be!! This was a bit of a sucker punch to me at this point and I hiked my slowest miles up the hill. I was staring at my garmin just counting the lost minutes that I had worked so hard to close down. Near the top of the steep bit of the climb there is a way marker that sends you to a view point over the water. I took this and wandered about at the top, looking for the path that wasn't there. I then remembered I had done this the last time aswell, and headed back to the trail so pissed off that I had wasted even more time. I was so down beat again. I didn't know how far behind 3rd place was so that was my sole focus on keeping moving. My head was down and I was mile counting on garmin to get to the end. Out the forest and there is a great view up the last of the climb to the trail ahead. I then seen 1st place a couple of minutes in front, which immediately jolted me into a quicker pace again. I managed to close the gap and me and Gavin spoke for a few minutes before I headed off to the next aid station which was a mile away or so.

Coming into the last aid station - photo by Fiona Rennie

I knew it was about 11 miles roughly to the end. I managed some irn bru, skipped my banana and decided to get on the energy gels to the end. One of the lovely marshalls told me that I was about 5 minutes in front of course record pace which got me going quickly. I was head down and onto the road section which has an great open view. I didn't look round at all until I was just about entering the trees. I looked round and didn't see any runners so I was pretty happy I had a good gap of about a mile or so. I was still feeling good, and managed a few energy gels down into me. Feeling good doesn't last forever though, and with 5 miles to go I really started to struggle again. My legs felt good but I was really over heating, and was starting to feel really dizzy. I didn't want to slow down so I just kept pushing but the dizziness was becoming worse, so I had a few walking breaks which helped. I was hoping I wasn't going to do a Hawkins and wanted to make sure I got to the finish line without that happening. This part of the course is really enclosed with hardly any views behind, and still limited shade. I was convinced I was going to get caught. After feeling so good for the last few miles it was tough to take to think that I would get passed so close to the finish. I went from picturing crossing the line in 1st place, to picturing getting passed as I was on the last canal section, and worrying I would pass out and not do either of these things. I would have been gutted to get caught this late on, and it made me wish I had never caught 1st place so that I wasn't in this situation. It was just such a pendulum of emotions and I didn't know what was going to happen. But I love it. These feelings, and feeling like you cant go on before running another 40 miles are what I pay my money for. I honestly love it so matter the outcome. I struggled on and on, and soon found myself at the housing estate which I remembered meant I had half a mile to go. Onto the canal bank and I was delighted to see that the swing bridge was down and I need not worry about having to wait for a passing barge. I swung back to feeling good again as I seen the running track and the finish. I felt instantly cheated when I realised that I had to run 400m instead of the 200m like the last time, but my girls gave me a big cheer as I passed and I picked up the pace for the lap of the track, finishing in 11:08.

Finish lines hurt. I always think that the pain really kicks in once you have crossed that line, and it really hurt this time! I forgot how sore legs could get, but I felt more relief than anything with this race. After a while out it was great to get back to the longer stuff and prove to myself that my legs could still hack it and I could dig deep when I needed to. For those who haven't ran the Great Glen, it's a fantastic route. We were spoiled with the views this year. Probably my favorite things about this race though...we camped right next door to the finish line. So once I was able to walk, we could sit in the sun and watch the other runners coming in. It's amazing to sit and watch and I had a great time lying on the ground feeling sick and watch the other runners come round the track and across the line, some sprinting, some limping, but all smiling. All while it was enjoying a beer which took me 3 hours to drink haha. Even once we had to head back to the tent to feed the kids, we could hear the runners coming into the stadium and over the line to cheers and applause. This must be the thing I enjoy about this sport the most. I won't be back next year, but without doubt I will return to the Great Glen again and I look forward to when it happens.


Food

Here's what I ate and drank during the race

Tailwind Caffeinated Raspberry Flavour (6L volume, 24 scoops)
6 bananas, 3 of which I threw back up.
6 Nakd bars
4 Graze oat bars
1 packet cliff shot blocks
High 5 Energy Plus Caffeine  8 gels all in the last 10 miles

Now that might not seem like a lot of food, but I had worked my calories out before hand and I knew this would see me through. I went into the race fuelled well and even when I was sick, I managed to only lose a wee bit of food, I wasn't emptying my stomach. That being said I feel the tailwind worked amazing for me yet again. I've previously made it too strong and struggled to get that down me. But 2 scoops into 500ml of water was perfect and the caffeine helped keep my heart rate at a decent level when it mattered.

Glentress Trail Marathon

The first proper race day of the year was Glentress trail marathon. I had done a few wee short races but this was a wee tester and a good long tough training run which would give a bit of a gauge as to how I was feeling. I had been doing a wee bit more climbing than I normally would do, and although I always feel weak on the hills and get passed by everyone and their dug, I was interested to see how I'd get on. As is my specialty, I had missed just about every planned long run on my plan, for a mixture of reasons. Although this is probably the first time I've missed them for reasons other than I couldn't be arsed.

Anyway...I'd had a pretty rubbish training week in the week leading up to this, and was keen to get a decent weeks training in on the week of the race, and hopefully run on semi tired legs, which I succeeded in doing. 

Race day came and me and Allan set off from Dumbarton about 0715 ish, arriving there about 9. The weather was perfect, little wind, clear skies, and a few degrees above freezing. This meant the course wouldn't be chewed up with much mud, and it had been sunny all week so little snow also. I opted to run in the Inov-8  X talons (which I spoke about in my previous blog). Given the perfect conditions I could have went with my Inov8 Race Ultras which would have maybe been a little more comfy, and I didn't require the extra grip. But they were good as ever and I have no complaints over my choice on the day. I didn't have any hopes going into the race, other than feeling decent throughout. 

The countdown started and at 10 bells we were off. A wee cheeky downhill for 20 seconds doesn't give an accurate insight into whats ahead. 2 loops of 2500ft climbing over single track, fire roads, switchbacks and mountain bike trails. More trail porn than anyone could hope for in a mornings run anyway.

It starts with a gentle climb and I was happy for loads of folk to leave me in their dust, and settle into a comfy pace. Even early in the race some of the downhills are quad shredding, I wasn't paying much attention at one downhill and crashed pretty hard. I was up as quick as I was down incase anyone seen me - but it meant me nursing a sore knee and hip for the rest of the race which was not fun on the rest of the downhills! I was trying to count and I think I was as low as 18th after a few miles. I aimed to complete the first loop in about 1:50 ish, and I maintained a very easy effort for the loop, walked the steeeeep uphill, and got back to the start in 12th position, in a time of  1:49 and change (whoooop). I had noted a few points where I would pick up the pace on the second loop, and hoped to pass a few people on those sections. I knew I would slow a bit (see above lack of long runs), but it wasn't too rough. I was aware I was slightly slower on the climbs, but I was putting a decent effort in on the flats and downhills and started to pass people. As the climbs went up and up, the pain in the quads was well worth it as we were rewarded with awesome views and crystal clear skies.

The miles passed very quickly for me in the second half, and I picked up several places within a few miles. I know I'm way down on a podium spot, but it's all good and I'm wanting a decent training run, as opposed to a race. However, as to anyone who knows me...I can't resist a race. I love it. I love throwing everything down and going all out against someone, be it for 1st or 30th, I just love racing. So as I was going up the swtichbacks under the trees, I see 2 runners in front, and I pass one pretty quickly, and catch the other one. I stay in his shadow and plan to pass on the flat or the downhill. But he has other plans. He tore away on the downhill and on this occasion I just couldn't match the speed to put a burst in. I don't recall the other runners name but it was a great effort at the end of a tough shift and well deserved, and was good to watch from a distance. I'm still a bit off mentally to dig deep in races, and this is something I need to work on for races so early in the season. But that's the way I am if I treat a race as a training run, and talk myself into it from entry day so I'm not worried, and I know I can zone in to races that I chose to put the mental energy into. But, well beaten in a wee sprint off in the closing miles.

In the end I finished in 6th position in a time of 3:47. I was pretty happy with this, but more happy that I ran what I felt was a decent run. My legs weren't goosed at the end, I felt good throughout and I was able to walk hobble free, unlike my usual post race zombie march.

For the pre race breakfast this time I opted for porridge with Almond and coconut milk, with a wee bit of granola.  Apart from that, the entire day was fueled by Tailwind which sorted me right out. For those who haven't tried this, which I'm sure isn't many, it's an amazing fuel for both races and training. No drops in energy, no stitches, no need to constantly be near a toilet. Plus it tastes awesome. I usually like to back it up with some solids during the really long stuff, but for a cheeky wee marathon there is no need at all for that. Go tailwind!!!


This is twice I've turned up at this race, and the first I've finished. 2016 I chucked it after 1 loop, so it was good to finally clear the 2 year slagging off I'v had for wearing the race T shirt that I never earned. For those who haven't ran this, the race has everything and is a great event so early in the year that will surely test the winter training.


The switchbacks are awesome, downhills tricky and rocky with the ankle grabbing heather ready to bring you to a crash if you aren't paying attention (I wasn't - ouch), the climbs are tough and the views awesome, if you're the type of person who like to look around during races.

See you next year to skelp my time!!

Snow snow snow

Well this week was all about getting back into the start of some proper mileage, instead of just messing about.The week started as normal with Horseshoe Monday, which this week was an easy 10 miles. Unbelievably,  my legs were still hurting slightly from the Trossachs trail race the Wednesday before, so it was good to ease them off.

On Tuesday the snow started but at this point it wasn't very deep. I had planned a hill repeats session. This is one of my weaknesses and I've not ran a hill repeat session for years. I had every excuse ready not to do it and to do an easy run instead. It's too slippy, it's getting dark, I've only slept for 3 hours, the list goes on. But I keep looking at this picture

and I don't want to be this disappointed again. So off I go. 10 reps of running through treacle while my legs are on fire. I'm not sure I was even running at some points moving up the hills but i got the job done and it was good to finally get a leg burner in the bag.

As I continue to work on my weaknesses (the biggest of which is hills obviously) I'm doing all my easy runs that I can on hills. By this time the snow had hit and I was constantly been rewarded by views like this

                                       



The hills even at an easy pace are still working my wee legs hard, but no one is going to give me the ability to run up hills fast, it's not going to magically appear so the only thing I can do is get up them every day. In many ways I feel like a beginner again at this. But I continue on and on, and it's made slightly easier by it getting slightly easier. So already feeling the benefit, and next weeks hill session will be a good bit tougher.

An 18 miler on Friday was pretty miserable. Freezing, icy and pouring rain but I got the job done and my legs at the end felt as fresh as when I'd started, Bonus!

I ended up on 70 miles for the week, pretty much my go to mileage, with 6500ft of climbing. The highlight of the week for me, was running around Balloch Park with my eldest daughter. She didn't ask to go sledging, or go make a snowman, she insisted on going out running with me in the heaving snow. Running can be such a selfish sport, and I often worry that I'm spending too much time away from home, too much time away from the kids when I should be doing other things. But I'm living in hope that it teaches them the dedication and sacrifice that you don't get from book learning. To work hard when you don't feel like it. If you only work hard on the days you feel good, you'll never get anything done.

                       
                                                              My favorite miles

I have to say, I am super impressed with Inov8s latest X Talons. Fortunately for me, these come in the team colours of black n red. With all the ice, snow, mud I've ran in this week, I haven't slipped or fallen once! Much better than the previous versions I've used and I've had total confidence in them doing speed work and decending quickly!! You can check them out at the link below here -

                                                              

West highland way race 2016

I think I was about 18 years old when I first heard about the west highland way race. I'd just finished running a marathon when I heard that people ran the full West highland way. I don't think at the time I could process the thought of this. I swore to myself that I'd run it one day.

Fast forward 13 years...

June 18th 2016. 5 minutes to 1 am. Race briefing done and I'm standing on the start line at Milngavie train station. The start line which I'd imagined myself on for the previous 13 years. I go through my training in my mind. 1500 miles for the year. 100,000 feet elevation gain. I'm ready. I am surrounded by familiar faces, some I've never met, some I recognise from social media, all illuminated by the glow of the head torches on every runner. It's time to go. Another run through of my race plan goes through my head, this time interupted by the sound of the horn and the cheers from the waiting crowd. The race begins and I take the first step of many.

The first few mies pass quickly. I settle into an early rhythmn of just over 8 minutes per mile average. I'm joined by a few others and natter away to each other. I manage to get out on my own soon and enjoy the company of only my headtorch, continuingly chasing the bouncing glow along the easy flat miles. The miles pass uneventfully and before I know it I've reached drymen. I've ran the next section many times. I have fun remembering the miles in the harsh weather that I have put in on this sectionto prepare for today. My mind drifts and I find myself at the bottom of the conic. I run the hill at an easy pace, exactly on plan. I turn at the top to look around. Seeing the worm of headtorches dancing behind me on the trail up the hill is an amazing sight. When I look forward again I am greeted with the almost full moon illuminating the glass like water of Loch Lomond. I think at this point it is worth doing the race for these two views alone.

Its is starting brighten and I no longer need my head torch. Which is handy, on the decent from conic hill my battery runs out. It should have lasted hours longer. Hopefully not a sign of things giving up before they should be. I reach Balmaha car park within 3 seconds of my target time. Im met by my lone supporter Theresa who fills up my water bottles and sends me on my way quickly. She shouts to me that the battery on my go pro had already ran out, yet another sign that things weren't lasting as long as they should! I shout back that we forgot to pack beer for after the race. Priorities!

Balmaha - 2 hours 45 minutes

Within a mile of leaving Balmaha I force down an energy bar and immediately bring it back up. Not really ideal but I sometimes struggle with the solid food and I was managing enough tailwind for the early part of the race so I wasn't too bothered. The remaining miles to Rowerdennan passed uneventfully. I don't remember passin anyone or being passed at all, however I may be wrong. I ran into Rowerdennan to see Davie Gow just in front, and immediately thought I must be going too fast. I arrived just a few minutes in front of my target time. 

Rowerdennan - 4 hour 5 mins

Another attempt at an energy bar is met by the same result at the first. I don't hang about long as I am being attacked by a horde of midges. I grab a banana and force this down as I trundle along the lochside. I ease along and spot Davie Gow in front. I take the lead from him - he is far more experienced than me so I walk the sections he is walking and run again when he does. The race is following the low route this year which I love. The rugged section passes underfoot and Im having a great time, my legs feel fresh. Davie stopped for a comfort break and i stretched not far in front of him. I run through Inveruglas stopping briefly to drink an irn bru. The army of midge is stronger here than at the last stop. I soldier on, aware Im being followed closely but I'm not bohered by position, certainly not at this stage anyway. A few miles up the road the the lead lady tears past me. There is no way I could keep her pace she is setting scrambling over the rocks. Time passes and I know Im closing in on seeing Theresa and my dad which gives me an immense boost. The dreaded midge attacks continue until Im almost at Beinglas. I spot a familiar vest in front and catch up. I see its Hal Koerner! We exchange pleasantaries as I pass. He is struggling with a knee injury. I doubt he has understood anything I said. Before I know it I am climbing the style and Ive arrived at Beinglas. My dad and Theresa set about me, feeding me and filling my bottles. Id love to hang about but the midges are too harsh. I make a joke about overtaking famous Hal and run on.

Beinglas farm - 6 hours 59 mins

This next section is a bit of a baw breaker. I get my head down and trudge on. Truth be told I don't remember much of this section. Im met by a walker near Crainlarich who fills my water bottles. Im beginning to fade and Im doing garmin maths to see if I'll make the next check point in time. The sun is rising further, and it seems with each further rise, my legs respond with lost energy. Im now struggling to take on the tailwind and I know I need to eat. 

Auchtertyre - 8 hours 51 mins

A struggle. I sludge into the checkpoint. On the scales and run on towards the car. I see my dad behind and he soons catches up and tells me I've lost more than 4% of my body weight. I need to eat. I lean against my car and rest my almost weary legs. More bananas go down a treat for some reason. For those who don't know - I HATE bananas. But today they serve me well. My body knows it needs them. I refuse the offer of swapping into my vest. Im determined to cross the line in Dumbarton colours and keep my black t shirt on for the time being, in favour or ruining the vest for the end. Away I go, through Tyndrum and Im offered a choc ice. Id love one however my vegan stubbornness doesnt allow this. Had it been a calippo I would have faceplanted it right there.

 A mile further nd I hear a tooooot from the road. My Dumbarton team mates who are running the relay  shortly pass me on the main road. This gives me a massive lift. I manage to bounce along nicely. The day is warming up, the trail is busy and I enjoy seeing the walkers and cyclists on the route again. A drone flies overhead and I try and maintain good running form incase it records me. I begin the small descent in to Bridge of Orchy and Im starting to feel the days efforts. The sight of my dad perks me up again, and I run a short distance to the car park, happy I'll see Theresa soon and get more Bananas! 

Bridge of Orchy 10 hours 40 mins

Im well down on my target time now. At the aid station my mum and daughter are there. The lift I get from seeing my wee girl is well needed. A man recording for the adverture show asks me some questions, I have no idea then or now what was said, but I know I need to move. Stocked up again and Im off. I have a wee bet on with thhe Dumbarton crew that I will get to the finish before them Im under pressure and Ill need to run well to conme close. This urges me on. I push on and on and on. The miles now pass slowly. I check my garmin moreoften. It doesnt speed up. Im running upwards of 11 minute miles on the good bits. The descents begin to hurt. Energy comes and goes from my legs like the ebb and flow of the tide. The power drains from them gradually, each step getting harder and more sluggish as the garmin shows me slowing, only for the power and freedom they once had to come crashing back in, when I manage to force some food down. Garmin tells me Ive already lost my bet. Ill be doing well to reach Glencoe without being passed. I make this a micro goal. The heat is getting to me and I finally give in and take my t shirt off. TAPS AFF for a while.

Glencoe 12 hours 57 mins

A happy sight to see. I run a few hundred metres with my dad. This is always a proud moment for me. Into the aid station and Theresa and the rest of the team do a great job of perking me up. I feel sick and can't keep much down and feel a little dizzy. I get into my team colours and the other team mates ask how Im doing. Its good to see familiar faces.The relay team catch up and pass me in the aid station. A short lived bet, however Ill be back another year to avenge it!! Banana fuelled again and Im off. Im feeling it now. The devil comes and goes, with a few high 5s at the bottom which were well needed. The descent is hard. I walk a lot of it and im basically counting the steps to Kinlochloeven which can't come quick enough.

Kinlochleven 15 hours 36 mins

This aid station is a blur. I get weighed which shows Ive put weight back on, but this will be down to getting weighed with full water bottles. Im told I spoke to team mates

but looked right through them, unaware of who they were at this time. Im dizzy, I don't know who is talking to me, I dont know what Im eating, I know I must push on. I reluctantly leave Theresa and my daughter, my mum and the Dumbarton team mates, and Im led from the station by my dad. I run slow. There is now another runner and I try keep in front of him on this final climb. I focus only on the finish. There is no where else to go but forward. No point looking back, Im not going that way. I beat the other runner to the top of the climb, Im immediately left in his wake on the flat. I know now I will not feel the energy and power surge back to my legs, I have eaten too little. I death march on, milee by mile slowly passing underfoot. My mind wanders again, I know my wee girl is running the last 100 metres with me and this keeps me going. Lundavra approaches, Im greeted with a cheeky wee rest on a chair and somne irn bru - love it. I death march on, the down hills are agony and Im overwhelmed by the amount of relay runners passing me to shake my hand and offer a cuddle. The must know I need it.

Braveheart car park!!!! I know Im almost there, Richie passes me in the van, shouts I have half a mile to go. Im aware there is a runner close behind, unaware relay or not. This injects life into my sorry legs. I spot my dad, shake off my race vest ready to hand to him. Its just around the corner. I shake off my tired running form, my short stride, lift my head up and go. Running faster than I have the entire race, I see me wee girl, in team colours too. I take her hand and we run into the car park together. I look at her as I cross the line, a moment 13 years in the making. Its hard to describe how much I enjoy sharing this moment with her. 

Fort William 19 hours 26 mins and 6 seconds.

I couldn't have managed the day without those who helped me. Theresa, daddy cool, my mum, my daughter, and all the Dumbarton team mates. Particularly those who I had the bet against who urged me on when they knew how I was feeling, and perhaps more importantly, put my tent up for me. Thanks, I owe you. 

A lot slower than my target. Im happy enough. Never satisfied. Sometimes I set myself goals, and making them or not the feeling can be bitter sweet. Its strange, something Ive wanted to achieve for so long, and putting a goal in 2 months before of a time which Ive not achieved, Im not overjoyed. Happy yes, estatic no. So the goblet has remained in its box so far. I wouldnt enjoy drinking from it when I dont feel like Ive lived up to my potential on the day. Bitter sweet as I say. Until next time...

Autumn leaves

Monday -  No running!

Tuesday - club tempo session 3.7 miles @ 5:56 min miles

Wednesday - AM 7.4 mile commute @ 7:23 min miles, PM 7.4 mile commute @ 7:39 min miles

Thursday - AM commute 7.4 miles @ 7:34 min miles, PM commute intervals 15 mins warm up, (6 mins on 2 rec, 2 mins on 1 rec) x 3

Friday - No running!

Saturday - intervals - inverted pyramid,10,8,6,4,2,4,6,8,10 strava link here - https://www.strava.com/activities/432398983

Sunday- steady run 16 miles @ 7:14 min miles

I was out at the previous weekend running, noticing the wet leaves under my feet. I was running on the cycle path surrounded by trees. All before me and above me I noticed all the leaves falling from the trees. What once were bright and colourful and full of life, then this time of year, it gets colder, the weather gets rubbish, things dry up, wither away and die. This happens not only in nature but in peoples lives. It gets cold and its harder for them to get out the door and running. The fitness they have built over the spring and summer dries up, withers away and dies. People out on weight, eat and drink more, and they have to work so much harder when the spring and good weather comes to get their fitness and well being back.

Im not doing that this year. I'll continue to work hard and consistent over the winter, when spring comes I'll be fitter and faster than I was during the summer. I'm sticking to 3 speed sessions a week, 2 shorter and one longer. I know its the way to get faster and with view to that I've made a few sessions up that I'll share as I do. Saturday was the first, reverse pyramids with 10 minutes on, 2 rest, 8 mins on etc. On the way back up I had only 1:30 rest, I done this purely because I k ew it woukd be more  painful, than a kick in the baws when I was starting to tire, and this had the desired effect. I had aimed to keep my intervals under 6 min miles and I failed on the last 10 mins. A further breakdown below.

Those who have started to follow will notice I ended my runstreak at about 33 days or so.  I did intend to keep it going longer but a hefty week and work and getting held on until the wee small hours meant I opted out. Not the best option but I felt my legs needed it. I may do a long runstreak at some point, but its not for everyone and I feel the benefit of taking a day off now and again. 70 miles in 5 running days this week shows I dont need to run every day to get my desired miles in too.

Anyway I'm rambling, and an easy recovery week for me this week to rehydrate with some beer in germany with my good lady, 4 days off running and then back down to nusiness on my return. Have a good week and run hard, don't forget - speedwork hurts and is hard but nothing that's easy  is worth doing,  is it?

More miles = better legs

Monday - AM commute 7.3 miles (7:10 min miles) PM  commute easy paced 7.4 miles (7:55 min miles)

Tuesday - warm up the  8 x 300m, cool down

Wednesday -20 miles easy paced (you tube video link here https://youtu.be/l0EEY3Kl6j0 )

Thursday - solo intervals 4 x 1 mile (5:46 6:00,5:58,6:04)

Friday - recovery 6.1 miles (8:08 min miles)

Saturday - solo intervals 6 x 800m ( https://www.strava.com/activities/423687696 ) PM - commute 7.4 miles (7:39 min miles)

Sunday - AM commute home 6.5 miles (8:10 min miles) PM - easy 4.7 miles (7:55 min miles)

Weekly total - 79 miles elevation 2,379 feet

This week was all about increasing the miles but also keeping in with my 3 promised speed sessions a week. A good start to the week with an easy commute each way, the focus on my commute is usually only getting the miles in unless I am using is as a speed session. The good thing about Monday morning was that I finally managed a more decent pace, I'm usually death marching from the start. Onto Tuesdays club session. Of all the sessions they do this is my least favorite. It's just too short and I feel like I dont benefit from it, I just can't get my heart rate to a decent level, with a maximum of 173. Next time I'll stay on and batter out 12 reps and see if this makes things any better.

Wednesdays 20 miler with Willy was a cracker, easy paced and we took in the 4 football stadiums in Glasgow. I had the camera so we messed about with that (youtube link above) and the easy pace reflected in my average heart rate of 136 bpm. My legs felt good after this and I felt little fatigue - until I attempted mile reps on Thursday! I always find it hard doing higher intensity alone but imagining footsteps behind chasing you is a good way to keep it going, but my legs weren't playing so that led to an easy Friday.

Saturdays 800s were also solo, I didn't note the times of each rep but averaged about 5:25 ish pace per mile. I should be doing my mile reps quicker than that but I'll take that this week, the track I used is really slippy and not maintained at all, I'll stick to the road from now on.

A commute in at night and then home in the morning, followed by an easy run in the afternoon finished the week nicely, leaving my legs fresh to attack the speedwork this coming week, I've one homemade session to try. Jelly legs here I come!

Rewarded by a nice sky on my commute home after nightshift

Glenmore 24

So glenmore 24 was my main aim for the year. This is my first full year at running ultras and I was really looking forward to the mental side of things. Over the summer I had a disappointing result at the Edinburgh marathon (3:00:15!!) and then I placed 2nd at the great Glen ultra (72 miles). I ran the devil as a training run for Glen more and all went to plan. After this I had a bit of a knee knock and as a result I lost out on about 3 weeks of good training in the lead up to the event, however I approached the 24 with a goal of well over 100 miles. 

The Friday night came and we travelled up to the campsite. Managed to get a space almost at the outside so my crew didn't need to walk far at all. I had briefed them about what I needed and when, and had all my nutrition sorted. 

I had written everything down in a notebook which I gave them (idea curtesy of willy Robertson) including some motivational quotes, how I would feel and what I needed to eat to sort it, so I was well prepared. I managed to get a decent sleep that night, helped along by 2 massive glasses of wine. 

Race morning came and I felt good. I done my usual stretching and had some porridge with some fruit and soya milk. I've been meat free since late April and decided to give the vegan thing a go and see how I feel, so far it's been about 5 weeks and I feel great. 

12 bells approached and we were off. I started as planned and went through the first marathon in an easy 4 hours. I had already been lapped by a couple of people but I knew I didn't want to set out at their pace so I kept to my plan. 

I went through 40 miles in about 6 hours. I'd been getting hassle from my mum and my fiancé for my lack of eating so far, and for some reason still unknown to me I decided to ignore their good judgement. 

8 hours in and I was starting to struggle. My legs felt great, apart from feeling I was losing 2 toenails but I wasn't fussed about that, toenails are over rated anyway. 

Darkness came and I was looking forward to the nighttime. I had a vegan curry with green lentils, a banana and this finally allowed me to run. This lasted about 2 laps and then the wheels came off. I was really struggling. My crew was trying to get me to eat some gels, I kept refusing because I knew if I boarded the sugar train I would never get off. Against all better judgement I shuffled along, talking more walking breaks. I knew my goal I had in mind was well and truely gone. 

About 0230 I got back to my aid station situated a wee but up a wee steep hill which I had to crawl up. I was done. I got a seat, my first of the race, put on some warm clothing and changed my shoes. By this time I was shaking uncontrollably. My fiancé kept saying I looked miserable, and I kept saying that feeling like this was what we paid our money for. You don't pay to have an easy day. 

I decided on a lie down under a foil blanket to get myself to a decent state. I stayed there for a few hours until I heated up. About 7ish I headed back out, I still hadn't eaten anything. I managed 3 slow laps, at a shuffle or a walk and managed to get back to the start about 1045, so 

I waited for the short loop to open. While having a seat I ate 3 gels, and some biscuits. 11 o clock came and I manage to run, and run well for a full hour. I felt great and my legs weren't tired at all. I didn't want the hour to end. What a difference getting some food in me does!  The horn went and I was instantly annoyed about how I had messed my race up due to rubbish, or lack of, nutrition.  The results aren't out yet but I will have hit about 90 miles, about 40 short of what I wanted!  Just means I'll need to return next year and get the job done!! The event was well organised, and I'll happily spend my money on any BAM races. Just means I need to wait a year to burst that 100 mile mark.

Deeside 33 ultra marathon

I have been running most of my life on and off, and about 3 or so years ago I decided to get back into triathlons and running to see if I was actually any good or not. Last year (2014) I completed the rat race city to summit triathlon finishing in 6th place. Since then I decided to give the ultra running a go. I signed up for the Jedburgh 3 peaks ultra and had a terrible race however not long after I signed up for the Deeside way 33 ultra.

Up until race day I hadn't ran more than 19 miles in training so I didn't have high hopes going into the race and was hoping my legs would have plenty in reserve from last year. I was using this only as a training race for other events this year. 

My alarm went off at 4 am and I left shortly after picking up my good friend William Robertson from Glasgow. I ate my breakfast on the way which consisted of 1 high 5 sports bar and 4 lemon pancakes. I felt good after this however after speaking with William and his plant based ways I should probably do a bit better! 

We arrived in good time and parked right beside the park.  A wee warm up looking for the toilets and we were good to go. Race conditions were perfect with little wind and cloud cover. I met a few familiar faces from other races and then it was time to set off. I had initially planned to set out at 7 min/ miles and see how long I lasted however the first mile was busy and slow so I changed my plan and decided to run the full way at a steady pace. 

I set off alone and the first few miles had a gentle incline and I stayed about 7:25 min miles with my heart rate in the low 140s. I stayed with this until about mile 11 or so when William and his pal Barry caught me on a wee incline. I let them go ahead and stuck to my even pacing plan. The route was mostly tarmac with a few muddy bits and only gentle inclines. The race winner passed me with about 2 miles to go to half way, and he ended up finishing in 3:10 - amazing running. 

I caught William and Barry at the turnaround point and we decided to run the next section together. We were setting a good tempo about 7:10 per mile. Barry eventually took off at a good pace while I stayed relaxed. Myself and Willy were beginning to reel some people in which was showing our good pacing plan. I knew there was a small climb about 19 miles in or there abouts. I held back and Willy took off down the road. My heart rate climbed into 150s as expected due to my lack of training. 

I continued with my nutrition plan of 2 high 5 gels per hour which lasted me the full distance and I got no hunger. On approaching the marathon split I looked at my Garmin and seen I was 3:14 for the marathon which is 3 mins slower than my pb. I was extremely happy with this and the remaining miles were completed on an absolute high. I passed several people from this point and a few marshalls commented that I looked so fresh and happy. 

I knew Willy was well in front now and wouldn't see him (he finished in 4:01) so I continued at my even pace. The last 3 miles were slightly downhill and I was about 7:16 for each of them. 

The run into the park was excellent with a good crowd and high spirits all round. I crossed the line in 18th in a time of 4:07. 

I met Willy and Barry at the line then headed off to get changed. Willy had made a smoothie with spinich kale and other goodness which he forced down me. We both finished the race with fresh legs and returned to the tent for some well earned fruit and a bottle of deeside home brewed beer which I've still to try. 

The race was well marshalled throughout and I couldn't fault the organisation at all. The race was the cheapest I've entered at about £18 I think and I will be returning next year and hopefully be under the 4 hour mark. 

http://app.strava.com/activities/268109771