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.

Cort-Ma Law Hill race

I quite fancied a wee mid week blow out, and my idea of this these days is a wee hill race instead of trying to rattle 8 pints down the Dog House. The race that happened to suit was Cort-ma Law which is situated on the Crow Road above Lennoxtown. Now I'm no hill runner but I do like to test myself now and again and this suited my shifts and home life.

I had a quick swatch on the website which read  -MANDATORY KIT FULL BODY WATERPROOF COVER, MAP COMPASS AND WHISTLE. Still currently in the hottest Scottish weather known to man, I headed up with my full kit consisting of shorts and vest. And that was it. Sure I wouldn't get lost, and not having used a compass since 1st year, I thought I'd Just go with the 'follow the guy in front method. But on speaking to the organiser it turns out you actually did need all this kit! Anyway, that's the rules and It'll be the last time I turn up without the mandatory stuff no matter the weather. It's just not fair on the organisers and running about having to borrow kit isn't fun. I ended up using a full sized rucksack and looking like a  novice full kit wanker. Aw the gear nae idea type of thing.

                                                               Full kit wanker

After getting over the shame of not having the gear it was almost time to set off. The race started at 1930 instead of the 1900 advertised time which was a bit of a pain but not to worry. Everyone's kit was checked at the start and it was soon start time. Off we went and the pace of the leaders was unbelievable. I settled into a good wee rhythm and power hiked the really steep bits. To give you an idea I ran the first mile in 13:13 minutes, climbing 743ft according to strava. The route kind of flattens out a wee bit here with some minor up and downs and I managed to gain a few places by opening the legs up. I was keeping an eye on my HR which was comfy at around 155 bpm or so. Norry McNeill soon passed me, I've had some good races with Norry of the recent years and he powered past me. Good to see him racing well. There was now a good few tussocky bits to leap along which brilliant. There were numerous bogs which I tried to sight, and failed most of the time, going in way deeper than knee deep most times, great fun. I then slowed a wee bit and got passed by a couple of runners, so I picked up up before the descent.

Now as I say I'm no hill runner, but I was flinging myself down the steep descent as fast as I could, windmilling my way down. I was then passed by a proper runner who flew past me like I wasn't even moving. It's impressive to watch. I was going as fast as I could at this point as well! There was then a burn crossing which is always enjoyable before another tough climb up. At this point I was overtaken by Norrie again, who happened to go the wrong way earlier in the race. I don't ever remember getting overtaken twice in such a short race, so great running!! I did try keep him in sight but there was then the massive descent back to the start. Again I went as quick as my wee legs would take me. It's probably the steepest I've raced down. I was wearing the Inov-8 X-Talon 212 again which really kept the grip great down here. They have still never let me down in any conditions.

Coming in to the finish

                                       


I finished in 58:21 (watch time). Pretty happy with that having had tired legs for the last 5 weeks or so because of the miles I've been putting in. Next up is the Great Glen way, really looking forward to returning to this and seeing what I can do. It'll be my first long one for a while so I'll see how the legs cope!

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 -

                                                              

The finish line photo

Finish line photos are great. To catch people's immediate emotions as they cross the line of whatever race they are doing as they meet their targets, achieve what they once thought they would never be able to do as they are cheered and applauded on by crowds of family, friends and strangers. I love being at the finish line watching people cross the line and reach their goals. For me it's one of my favorite parts of race day. However sometimes we aren't always happy. Which is shown in my Stirling Marathon finish line photo. I think it sums up just about every ounce of disappointment I felt that day.

Stirling was the only 'proper' race I had on this year. Due to great planning, my marathon training was due to start the week my baby was born, so I got off to a flyer by taking a rest week to hang about with the newest addition. The next 9 weeks or so involved the soon to be Mrs Shaw allowing me to run whenever I wanted, however the appeal of home life was far too great and my training was littered with missed runs and runs that were cut short so I could get home to my growing family. I did turn up on race day hopeful as ever but my lack of decent training showed and I ended up finishing with what I feel was my most disappointing performance to date, despite me having  huge pool of underwhelming performances to choose from. It is still my favorite finish line photo I've had, and it will take a lot to beat for many reasons.

Moving swiftly on and I didn't have any races at all over the summer. What I did have was pretty much non stop beer drinking just about every day. Doesn't really help the running in any way but it did help me sleep through the night while my soon to be wife won at wifeing for me and the kids. Who knows how I would survive without her doing everything for me and supporting me everywhere.

In September the soon to be Mrs Shaw finally became Mrs Shaw...woooop woooop! Then I had a cheeky 5 weeks off work, which was felt with a bang when I went back to work and run the Kielder Marathon in a little over 3:30.

For those who are wondering, the above picture is what it looks like to drink constantly for months, do zero training and then run a marathon. It hurt a good bit. But it doesn't take me too long to get back into it and with a solid 2 weeks training under my belt, and some days off the beer I managed a PB at the Lochaber half marathon in 1:20 with a good bit less pain in my face and body.

So it aint all bad! 2018 will be a bit different. Back to the proper racing with a middle sized ultra and hopefully another 24 hour race, that's where it's at! I didn't achieve much running in 2017 but I did extend my wee family to 1 more daughter, and upgraded my number 1 supporter to my wife, so I can safely say it's my best year I've had yet. Different, but I've never looked this happy in a finish line photo...

Glenmore 24 2016

The first Sunday in September 2015.

It is a day as disappointment for me, feelings of failure and emptiness and what could have been. I had just finished Glenmore 24 with a distance of 90 miles. Well short of what I had been looking for. I knew I had to improve for the next year. I told Theresa my plan. For the next full year not a day passed when this years race didn't pass through my thoughts. Every time I laced up my trainers, every time I was tired and couldn't be bothered, everytime the alarm went off at 0440 for a run in the dark before work, I was at the start line of Glenmore. I had to better myself.

2nd September 2016

The car is packed. I have all my clothes with me that I could need during the race no matter the weather. We arrive at the Hayfield about 1500 hours. Set up camp quickly thanks to some kind helpers, and the horde of midges start. Not as bad at the West Highland Way, so I can cope. I constantly go through the race in my head. I know how I'll feel and I'm getting into the frame of mind. My pace plan is worked out to the minute and I go over and over it. Im going over and over in my head that it is an eating competition, with a bit of running involved. For those who dont know me, eating is my downfall and the last quarter of races is usually a death march for me due to this. Not this time i tell myself.

Soon Andrew Crichton arrives who we are also supporting this weekend and we spend some time chatting the usual pre race stuff.

2200 hours and it is bed time. No party for me this year!! I toss and turn but get a good sleep until 8am.

Race day

A pint of porridge for breakfast (we didn't have any bowls) and then I wander about. I bump into Davie Gow who convinces me to go off slightly faster than I had planned. I agree it's a better idea. Back to the tent, tell the boss my plan and I munch down 2 potato scones and a tin of beans. Changed into my running gear of inov8 race ultras, injinji socks, under armour under shorts, runing shorts and my Dumbarton vest. A few wee yoga moves and its time to go to the start line. 

I line up at the front alongside Euan MacMillan who I know and who is doing to 12 hour race.  I know he is going a similar pace to me to begin with so I plan to stay beside him. The horn goes and I take the first step of many. I settle into my pace of around 8:30 per mile average. I dont find it easy to run this slow but it will pay off in the 2nd half. The miles pass easily to begin with. Before I know it I am approaching my first marathon. Just under 4 hours as planned. At this point im in lead position after passing 2 runners after about 16 miles. Im not fazed by this but it is good to know. Im not bothered about a gap behind me. Id ran all the hills to this point. There is about 300ft of gain in the 4 mile loop, but so far so good.

Into the 2nd marathon and I am eating well. Im picking up food each lap and stopping on the 3rd lap for a 5 minute break of stuffing my face with food. Im trying to go as natural as possible with my food. Bananas, dates, raisins and nuts are the order of the day, plus 200 ml of tail wind per lap. Ive made some rice pudding which is doing the trick also.

The miles pass uneventfully. Ive passed Andy but not seen him again. It would be good to see a familiar face to share some miles with, but onwards i go. Each lap i ask how he is and pass messages to him through theresa. Seeing Theresa each lap gives me good energy and she is doing a great job of looking after me and making sure I fuel properly.

I find myself at 52 miles in 8 hours and 18 minutes. I start to struggle here and I hit a real low point. I dont know why because I am running well, eating great and have very little fatigue. I wanted to give up for more than an hour. Its a long hour, but I try and remind myself why I am here. I grind on and on and on and I know it will pass. A crushing low is always followed by an enjoyable high.  I think this is mostly due to me worrying about Theresa because she is still on her own and Chris hasnt shown up.

                     During a low point

Darkness falls and I get my head torch on. I love running at night. The low has passed and my first lap in darkness is awarded by a surge of energy through my full body. Its like jolts of energy going directly to my legs. Unfortunately my headtorch doesnt feel the same and goes to sleep before the 1st lap is done! No big deal and its changed for another one as I see Chris has arrived to support so I settle down.

I get an update that the guy in 2nd is only 30 mins behind me. By this time im not wanting passed so I decide to put a move in and try and lap him. I pick up the pace as much as I can, but keep it below suicide pace for the time being. Still early days to be burning out! The laps pass and pass and I still dont see anyone who I haven't already passed. I begin to wonder if Theresa is making this elusive runner up. She often tells me what I need to hear rather than the truth. Good plan! However my faith is in her completely so I push on and on and on. I feel like my legs are starting to hurt as I approach 100 miles.

                          Going through 100 miles

17 hours and 56 minutes and Im through 100 miles and met by the sound of the horn. This is an enormous milestone for me. I feel a great sense of relief more than any other feeling. The 100 mile monkey is finally off my back, but im aware that it now has a target on it that people are aiming for. Im pleased with my pacing, 4 minutes infront of my intended pace. Things are going well.

 Into the forest I run again, chasing whatever light I see infront of me and ticking off the miles. I listen intently for the horn, too see if there is indeed a runner behind me so close. I dont hear it. The forest is silent so im sure id have heard it. Or my mind is playing tricks on me. A relay runner passes me and I seek assurance from her that no one else is through 100 miles. 'The horn has went twice' she tells me.

Shit

I push on, threatening suicide pace. There is a long way to go. Another lap concludes and I apologise to Theresa. "Im giving everything I have" and "if he catches me thats me done" is what i tell her. I could cry. Ive had about 8 hours of solid effort to try and catch the elusive 2nd place. Why cant I catch him? If he sees me first I know he wins. The psychological blow would be too much for my now tiring legs to take. Im beginning to feel bogged down and heavy, not helped by the disappointment I feel id heap on Theresa if I was now to lose. (This obviously isnt true but its how i feel at the time) she tells me Stevie is arriving about 7am to cheer me on.

BOOOOM

Im not letting him come all this way to see me lose in the last few hours. I constantly repeat things to my self - It's my race to lose. How bad do you want it. In 10 hours will you wish you put in more effort? I bound on and on. I say out loud 'suffer now' over and over, willing my legs to continue. Another lap passes and 2nd place is still 20 mins behind. Unbelievable. What do I have to do? Stevie has now arrived and he wills me on. Each lap im buzzed by the people in the hayfield cheering. Each runner I pass again spurs me on with their kind words, and I try and give something in return.

A spy in the camp

Daylight is here. Im wearing black and red, proud to be wearing the club colours. I hate racing without these colours. At the end of one of my laps stevie tells me 2nd place is 2 minutes in front. Yesss!! I can catch him. If I lap him I know im winning. Into camp, im told he doesnt stop. I refuel stopping for 3 minutes. He is now 5 in front. Off i go. Running all the hills. Pushing on. Where is he? Another lap nears an end. He is 90 seconds in front. Next lap. I stop again. Force a banana down, which replies by a brutal vomit which lasts about 5 minutes. Im not worried. Im well used to running and spewing. 7 mins in front. Another lap. 2 in front. He doesnt stop. I do. 5 mins in front. Another lap. 2 mins. He doesnt stop. Again i do, taking on food. How can iI be putting so much time into him only to fall short on each lap? Little do I know, he is stopping each lap with a crew member watching me, making sure he starts to move before me. What a move!! Why didnt we think of that? Top effort. Another lap passes. Time is ticking away. I get into camp, eat something. They have spotted him!! He is stopped, getting a massage. But not for long. I make chase. I run the hills. I know if im running at this stage im moving faster than most. Hopefully. Suffer now!!! Out loud again. Half a mile left. I spot Stevie. He jumps up and down, turns around and does a dance! 2nd place is just in front. I see him and finally catch up with the elusive Ross Grieve. What a moment. We shake hands, congratulate each other with a hand shake and hug, and walk through the start line together. 124 miles. Its now half 10. 

          Ross grieve who pushed me so hard!! 

I head out for my final lap. My legs dont enjoy it. I share some conversation with Patricia who photographed last years race and who is running amazing. I push on slightly and conclude my last lap, ive eased off and its my slowest of the race.

Little loops

The hayfield is now open for laps. 400m loops. I trudge on slowly now. Walking and running when I can. Counting down the minutes. My legs arent working so well now. 2 minutes to go and I put my peg beside the tent. Chris has headed off. Stevie shakes my hand. I see Theresa and I could cry im so happy for her. Running a good race for her is a small thing to repay her for everything she does for me. She puts more effort into my running than I do at times. I get a cuddle and then I lie on the ground.

Its over. 130 miles. A year in the making. Im so relieved and happy for Theresa that we finished first. Im glad for Stevie coming all that way. Im thankful to Chris for helping feed me and making the effort. A real team sport. My role in running is a small part in the weekend. The win and my race going to plan is mostly down to others, and im happy for them. In many ways it was a first. My first 100 mile run, my first win, my first race where I fuelled and ran as planned. I can rest easy now. Until next time...

Food

During the race I consumed;

About 30 servings of tailwind
10 bananas (-1 that I spewed back up)
250g dates
300g raisins
1 vegan bean wrap
3 x nakd bars
4 x nakd packets
3kg rice pudding!!!
3 cans of coke
1 energy gel
4 x cliff gel shots
Some melon
Some mango
Several midges

Approx 11,000 calories

This is a rough guide. Maybe have been more or a bit less. In the last 8 hours we stopped writing stuff down.

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...

Continuing the build

Monday - AM 10 miles @ 7:19 min miles PM 10 miles @ 7:17 min miles

Tuesday - AM 9 miles @ 7:25 min miles PM Dunbartonshire track 5k 17:24

Wednesday - 16 miles off road 9:15 min miles 2,300 ft elevation

Thursday AM 6.6 miles @ 8:02 min miles PM club 5 mile tempo 5:49 min miles

Friday 10 miles 7:11 min miles

Saturday 14 miles @ 7:32 min miles

Sunday 8 miles @ 7:23 min miles

Weekly total 100 miles elevation 5,300 ft

13 hours total.

I don't remember what age I was but I was pretty wee. I remember on a Saturday morning I was playing in the garden when my dad came back from playing golf and he was putting his clubs away in the garage. He had a massive red and black Dunlop bag and I asked him when I got bigger if I could have his bag and his clubs, and he said I'd need better ones because I'd be better than he was. I thought he was the best golfer ever (he played off of 21)  I'd played with him and he hit it for miles, much further than a wee me could hit. He also taught me how to play and act on the golf course. Plus he had also had 2 holes in 1. Ive still never managed to get one and I play in single figures. This is the first memory I have of him being my sporting hero.

He also ran when I was wee. As I grew up I don't ever remember him running much, but he had ran a marathon and one time done a race which involved kicking an orange down a hill which we went to watch. One of the things I remember is when he told me he had once ran 100 miles in a week. I thought that was amazing and I didn't know how far it was but I was proud he had done it and I remember telling my friends about it.

When I took up running again a few years ago I still remembered this. About a year ago I decided to do it one week to see how I got on. I ran my last run on a Sunday on my way home from work, and met my dad for the last few miles or so. I finished my first 100 mile week with him, after all its all down to him that I run. I really enjoyed that moment.

Today when I was running I finished another 100 mile week. I think I'll always think of him and how he has inspired me when I reach the 100 mile mark. I hope so anyway. 

Now I'm hitting 100 miles a week fairly regular, and my legs feel great for it. I'm running better,  stronger and faster than before. A few months hard work coming up when I'll be pushing towards the 150 mile a week mark and I'm looking forward to seeing how I cope with that.

This week's training was fairly simple, no long runs and mostly double runs to get the miles in. A 5k track race on Tuesday night I was hoping for about 16 minutes, but on pushing off I knew it wasn't going to happen and finished in 17:24.

Thursdays tempo was on tired legs but I managed to average 5:49 min miles a faster time than I've managed on this course.

Happy with the progress I've made in recent weeks and I'll see how I feel on this week's long runs.

100 mile week

Monday 8.3 miles @ 7:28 min miles

Tuesday am 4.2 miles @7:27 min miles PM 7.5 miles @7:16 min miles

Wednesday AM 4 miles @7:43 min miles

Thursday 26 miles on West Highland way @ 9:21 min miles

Friday 20 miles @7:48 min miles

Saturday 15 miles @ 7:50 min miles

Sunday 14.5 miles @ 7:19 min miles

Weekly total 100 miles elevation 7000ft

I started this week solely with the aim of running 100 miles for the week. I did initially plan some speedwork aswell but the club sessions didn't suit me this week. Monday and Tuesday were non events really with no exciting runs. The morning runs when I am early shift I am starting to cope better with. Life at home meant I had to skip wednesday nights run which was a planned 10 miles, so I felt like I would be chasing my tail trying to get the weekly goal.

Thursday I headed to the west highland way and done an out and back from Balmaha. I had intended to go north from Rowerdennan but the road was shut! The lochside is my favorite section of the WHW, it is just so tough. Anyway I ended with 26 miles, my wee legs were tired which I blame on the lack of hills so far this year, but at the end I could have ran on. My average HR was 139 was happy with that.

Friday was the return of more mile loops around my housing estate. I love running loops and it's good to run past the house tired and not give up and go in. HR 131 and it took in elevation of 1,500 feet.

Saturday was a real struggle, every step was a hassle and my whole body was wanting me to stop, but I struggled on. Sunday was a different story. I felt great on Sunday, mayne because I knew I had met my weekly target,but my legs felt fresh and I could have ran on at tne same pace.

A recovery week for me now with the glentess marathon at the weekend. This is my first race of the year but along with the D33 I had planned both as training runs and wasn't planning on actually racing them but I'll see how I feel on the day.

I really enjoyed the 100 mile a week and I will soon be doing back to back 100s, with upwards of 130 a week during my peak months.  

Ticking over

Monday - rest day

Tuesday - AM 3 miles @ 7:31 min miles PM club session 6 x 800m @ 5:30 min miles

Wednesday - AM 3.8 miles @ 7:36 min miles PM 10 miles @ 7:08 min miles

Thursday - AM 2.6 miles @ 8:04 min miles PM - 5 miles tempo @ 5:53 min miles

Friday - recovery 5 @ 7:54 min miles

Saturday - 11 easy miles @ 8:30 min miles

Sunday - 11 miles @ 7:30

Weekly total 62 miles elevation 2,700

Not much to cheer about this week! 18 miles short of my target but a surprise weekend off with the good lady led to less running. Happy wife happy life. The 2 club sessions were good, the 800s were not at full pelt. HR average was 154 bpm and max 168 bpm, shows I was holding back a bit as I had planned this week.

The tempo was good aswell. This was on tired legs but again happy with my pacing, average HR 159 so I can defo push it much harder. Ontonthis week, 2 back to back ling runs and the first 100 mile week of the year. Happy days

First week of 2016

Monday - 8.1 miles  (7:03 min miles)

Tuesday - a day out on the bevvy

Wednesday - 6.2 miles (7:03 min miles)

Thursday - warm up, 6 x 800m (5:33 min miles) , cool down

Friday - am  19.5 miles (7:48 min miles) pm - 4.5 miles (7:57 min miles) https://www.strava.com/activities/465677268

Saturday - 10 miles recovery (8:34 min miles)

Sunday - 11.8 (8:53 min miles)

Total miles 70 elevation 4000 feet

Well this was the first week of full training this year. I had taken a few easier weeks to let my legs feel fresh for the start of the year and so gar so good. Ive lost a wee bit of speed but that will be back next week.

Fridays 19.5 miles was a bit of a sore one, I haven't had a long run in ages. I went for 19 laps of the housing estate, good for the mind and body. It is good training to run past the house continually when the easy option is there to quit.

My priorities have changed a bit for the year, I got entry into the west highland way race, so I have ditched the plan to race a marathon in April/May in favour of some longer training runs. Ill still be doing at least 2 speed sessions a week, possibly 3 but im going to favour distance over speed for a few months and see how this makes a difference.

The 'A' race this year is glenmore 24, I just love running in circles and after making a complete arse of it last year I need to go back and make amends.

I have a goal in mind for the whw and g24, and a yearly target of 3,500 miles to run. Time to up the weekly miles 😊

Accountability

Monday - 4 miles easy off road (7:13 min/miles)

Tuesday - solo 6 x 800 m https://www.strava.com/activities/416685773

Wednesday - 6.4 miles steady (7:04 min miles)

Thursday - club session 4 x 1200m https://www.strava.com/activities/418185143

Friday - steady 7.6 (7:53 min miles)

Saturday - morning commute 7.5 miles at 7:58 min miles

Sunday - AM commute 7.5 miles (7:29 min miles) PM - commute 7.5 (7:02 min miles) including 3 mins hard, 1 min recovery x 9 (I think)

Weekly miles 59 elevation 2310 ft

Well that's another week in the bag. I said last week I was going to cut down the milage and do 3 speed sessions. Tuesdays speed session was done aoone and I always struggle to put in a full effort when there is no one to be chased, or indeed chasing me but it was better than another steady run, which I've been doing a lot off recently. My legs were really tired the following day so another steady run anyway. The club session was good on Thursday, my legs were still tired and I didn't go as fast as I liked but I still managed a decent effort.

I'm getting back to feeling good with increased speed, I just need to stick to the plan and good things will come. I managed a cheeky wee lunchtime beer on friday and managed to out a not too bad effort in after that, with a decent small climb involved I felt better tnan on any hills I have for a while, maybe I need to drink more beer before runs!

A run to work on Saturday morning was met with a horrific headwind blowing the rain into my face the entire journey, but these are the good runs and the ones that matter come the sunshine and warm days. I can still barely move in the mornings and it's a bit of a shuffle but it's better than an extra hour in bed. Same on Sunday, albeit with better weather.

I had promised 3 speed sessions and I couldn't bear the thought of working hard on the way home from work, but I knew if I went for the easy option Willy Robertson would give me a hard time. It was his idea to have an accountability partner and if it wasn't for that this would have been another steady run. So onwards I went fuelled by knowing I wouldn't be getting a cheeky text from him. Willy has some great ideas and this is worth while trying out. You don't need to train with them, just tell them your weekly plan and they will make sure you stick to it. We are all accountable for our own actions but it helps to surround yourself with positive people who will make you stick to the plan, even when its 5am and you don't really feel like running. And if it's too cold, put on an extra layer - problem solved.

Oh and probably the best bit of the week, a new garmin arrived!

Right now where's my phone to give Willy a few cheeky texts about his week...😂😂😂

Meat free may

In the lead up to the (real) racing season I've decided to make a few changes and see if I notice any real benefit in terms of recovery.  Most of this is a result of listening to Willy Robertson and seeing the results he has achieved so far on a plant based diet.

The biggest change is cutting out meat. I thought this would be pretty hard but 2 weeks in and I feel great. I've dropped about 4 pounds in weight and some of the meals have been excellent. Tonight was Malaysian laksa using bell peppers, onions, and courgettes (Pictured below?

I've been having a morning smoothie each morning with mixed berries, wheatgrass, flax seed and some fruit juice. After running I've been having another smoothie with spirulina and mixed fruits which have helped my legs recover quickly.

I've done 75 miles this week and my legs feel fresh, including a hard 22 miles off road and 2 speed sessions. I was hoping for another 100 mile week but I fell yesterday and my knee wasn't up to it today. 

Each night I've been doing yoga from the YouTube channel yoga with Adrienne which has helped me keep the stiffness from the legs. 

3 weeks today until the Edinburgh marathon in which I should be sub 3 barring any disasters. 

Looking forward to it and another few weeks of being meat free :) 

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