Great Ocean Road 60km 2017

Great Ocean Road 60km Ultra

http://greatoceanroadmarathon.com.au

The Great Ocean Road Marathon and Festival of Distance Running features a 44km Marathon, 23km Half Marathon, 14km run, 6km run and The Kids' 1.5km Gallop. In 2016, they introduced a 60km ultra-marathon! This event is held in a beautiful and unique area of Victoria, Australia on the Southern Ocean. Each year that this event has been conducted, it has attracted many athletes from around the world, eager to participate in this challenging and pristine environment.

COURSE MAP

Pre-event -

Warning… long intro!

In 2015, I ran the 44km Great Ocean Road marathon. I had a shocking run and soon after, I decided to finally have hip surgery. In 2016, I ran the 23km Great Ocean Road half marathon. I had a great run; I paced well and finished happy. My goal for 2017 was to run the 60km Great Ocean Road ultra marathon. I wanted to redeem myself from 2015, and achieve the set of medals (not OCD at all hey?)

Great Ocean Road is a beautiful part of Victoria and popular tourist destination for Australians and overseas travellers. I have mixed emotions of GOR. The good memories include; family road trip, honeymoon in Lorne and successful half-marathon last year. Not-so-good memories include; school camp in Apollo Bay (hospitalised with asthma), Ian Gawler conference in Lorne for Dad (not long before he died), and a bad marathon experience.

This year, my goal was to become friends with the GOR (and have fun)! I was staying with a friend and running client (Ricci) and three of her friends who were running the 23km. My other friend (Serena) was staying in the same complex and running the 60km too. I was already looking forward to post-race celebrations with Serena (one catch… I had to run 60km in under 6.5 hours first).

I admit I was nervous about the cut-off. I wasn’t too concerned with distance (even though this would be my longest distance ever); I’d run Two Bays 56km in January, Brimbank 50km in March and Princess Park 50km in April. I’d trained properly and diligently… But I wasn’t fast. Since returning from injury, I have a different perspective; my long-term goal is to be running long-term! I’m not trying out for the Olympic team so who cares if I take an extra 20 minutes to cross the finish line? Nobody even remembers my finish times anyway. My “plan” (very rough plan) was to run GOR comfortably; 5-6min/km pace and expect to run/walk the two hills that deviated away from GOR. For the bigger hills (300m climbs), I planned to jog 800m and walk 200m. There were conflicting reports on elevation for the 60km; some maps reported just over 1000m but others were 2000m! That obviously made me nervous because walking would decrease my average pace. If I went too much slower than 6min pace, I was risking a DNF! I knew I’d be happy to make cut-off (different story to the marathon when my aim was sub 5min pace… just quietly I think I was a bit cocky considering I ran my first ultra a few weeks prior).

The course (and road) reminded me of Two Oceans in South Africa (I ran it in 2015 a few weeks before my dismal performance at GOR 44km). I had an awesome run at Two Oceans; I ran 56km in 5hrs 13min (900m elevation). I was under no illusion I could match that now, but it helped me to plan and pace. Having run the half and full marathon in previous years also helped me understand the harshness of the road. GOR is the hardest surface I’ve run on (includes the Monash Freeway, Wings for Life World Run), plus there is camber. The GOR hurts! But the scenery is really pretty so that makes it OK, right?!

Despite knowing my body would pay for running the GOR, I was not perturbed. My lead up was great, my body was feeling relatively good; I had no injuries as such, however my left shoulder was bothering me (long-standing thoracic-outlet issue. Most of the time, it doesn’t bother me but when it hurts, it really hurts). In the month prior, I was meticulous with Chiropractic adjustments, Myotherapy treatments, Naturopathy and even Kinesiology. Brad taped my shoulder (amongst other things to help deactivate some overworked muscles).

Two days before race day, I organised my bags and gear; shorts, calf compressions, singlet, long sleeve top, hydration pack (and Flipbelt) with gels and Nuun electrolytes. Also, Garmin, Injinjis and Brooks Glycerin. The weather forecast was 17 degrees with some cloud cover. Perfect compared to last year; rain and wind. The day before, Serena (and Peter) kindly offered me a ride. We arrived in Apollo Bay about 4pm and after checking out the race precinct, we bought an early take-away dinner. I ordered vegetarian rice from the local Noodle shop. Ricci and her friends arrived about 7pm and we nattered about race goals. They headed out for dinner and I headed to bed about 9pm.

Event day -

I set the alarm for 4:50am. Serena and I agreed to head to the bus by 5:45am. I woke, ate some oats and drank a cup of tea. I dressed in my gear that was laid out and grabbed my bag, which I packed the night before. We walked to the bus in the dark with all the other crazy runners. There was a vibe in the air of anticipation and excitement. The bus trip was painless but I made sure to sit at the front to avoid motion sickness. As we discussed our mantras and strategies, the sun began to rise over the ocean. It was beautiful. I was reminded of my previous mantra… Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee! This year, my mantra was… Tip-toe through the tulips. In order to save my joints, I wanted to stay light on my feet.

When we arrived at Lorne, we dashed to the ladies and made final touches before congregating at the start line. I saw Tash Fraser (running extraordinaire) and wished her good luck! Then a familiar face approached me; it was Bruce (my savior from my marathon run). How fitting that we would meet again at the start line of GOR! We wished each other luck and suddenly the race had begun!

Start – 21km

The first few kilometres I maintained pace evenly between 5-5:10min/km. I was in control. About 7km we reached our first hill and my pace decreased to 5:55min (still within my desired goal). I was feeling good except for my left shoulder. I had referred pain down into my elbow (nerve pain, which is really difficult to ignore).

If I’m being honest (which I usually am)… I was actually fighting some significant mental demons by 8km. I was happy with pace, legs, energy and motivation… BUT my shoulder was giving me the shits (pardon my language)!

I was thinking I might pull-the-pin or run the marathon instead of the ultra. I was telling myself I had nothing to prove. And I convinced myself I couldn’t run 60km with sharp, shooting pain going down my arm. I’ve run with it before and my arm freezes… it becomes glued to my side (which makes running awkward)!

About 8km, I saw my running friend Bruce. Thank God! I didn’t complain (like I did last time we ran together). I simply focused on relaxing, breathing and chatting! I had a gel at 12km and sipped electrolytes from my pack. We maintained 5:15min pace (which was Bruce’s goal) until I started to drop off around 16km. The pain was affecting my ability to run, and I was not happy. Shaun Moore (running the blues away) caught up to me and we talked as we ran. Shaun has achieved a mammoth task of 5 ultras in 5 months! As we approached the half-marathon point, he spoke about the reasons behind his quest. It was inspiring running with Shaun (even if it was only for a couple of kilometres). I reached 21km in 1hr 50min (8min slower than when I ran the 44km but despite my shoulder, I was in a much better place).

21km – 42km

At 22-23km we approached another hill and I sat back into an easy pace (5:30-6min). I made myself a promise not to walk until I turned off the GOR (and hit bigger hills). I hoovered some lollies and chose to hold off on the second gel. I continued sipping electrolytes.

At 30km, I stopped for the loo and tried to mobilise my shoulder; I circled my arm and inhaled deeply into my rib cage. A lovely fellow RMA (Michelle) asked if I was OK. I said yes but truthfully I wanted to scream. I’d trained hard for this event, my legs felt good, my hips were hanging in there so why did my shoulder have to make so much noise? I opted to drown out the noise by listening to a podcast (ultra runner podcast). I craved distraction!

Around 33km, I came to the first hairpin turn. I stopped for a drink of water and more lollies. I began my 800m jog uphill. For reasons I can’t quite explain, my shoulder eased a little. Perhaps my posture changed or maybe the 200m walk breaks helped or the softer surface made a difference? I didn’t really care why but I was so grateful! Finally, I felt good! I could still feel my shoulder but the referred pain was quieter. I stuck to my plan of 800m jog and 200m walk until I reached the peak after 4km uphill (around 300m elevation). I was happy with my pace and execution of my plan. On the rise, my splits were 7:05, 8:11, 7:56, 7:38 and 7:50min. On the downhill, I concentrated on relaxing. I ran a casual pace of 5:30-6min (to save my quads). Taking a break from the harshness of the GOR was beneficial for my body. Plus, I loved connecting with fellow 60km runners. It was a good section of the course for me (which is odd, considering it was the steepest part). I had a second gel and more fluid. On the decent, I reached the marathon point in just under 4 hours.

42km – Finish

When I reached the bottom of the first climb, I received a pink wristband to show I followed the ultra course correctly. I paused for another drink and handful of jelly-beans. As I began running along the GOR again, I noticed my shoulder hurting a little more. It wasn’t as bad as the first 30km and my headspace had shifted from, “there’s no way I’ll make this” to “I know I can do this!” I was looking forward to the next climb! Overall I was feeling comfortable (even though I’d just run a marathon).

The next 5km, my average pace was 5:30min. The people around me were running slower (they were marathon runners but I’d run an extra 8km off-road). It was strange passing people after 42km. I listened to an ultra runner podcast interview with Karl Meltzer (USA ultra runner) and took in my surroundings. The conditions were ideal; sky was clear, ocean was calm and temperature was cool. Every so often, my body whispered to me… tightness in my hip flexors or a twinge from my ITB. I consciously flopped from my head to my feet (I told myself to switch-off everything). I continued placing one foot in front of the other with very little effort (but I was feeling tired). My shoulder maintained minor pain for the remainder of the run.

About 47km, I came to the second hairpin turn. I stopped for water and asked someone to grab my pre-made vegemite sandwich from my pack. I hoped to stick to my plan (800m jog and 200m walk). After 200m jogging I was fatigued. I could’ve pushed through but decided to renegotiate with myself! The new plan was 200m jog and 800m walk (now that sounded much easier). Once again, I began jogging… I checked my watch… Only 70m… Really? I made it to 100m before I walked (so my plan worked for the first hill but not the second one). I was ahead of schedule and confident I could make cut-off. I elected to give myself a break and walk more. After all, the hill was steep!

I ate one-quarter of my vegemite sandwich and gave fellow runners words of encouragement. My splits for this climb; 6:23, 10:44, 10:56 and decline; 5:28, 5:55, 5:55 (I have a feeling I lost satellites around this time but Strava fills in the gaps).

At the bottom, we were somewhere around 53km and I was given my second pink wristband. I was on the home stretch. One foot in front of the other… Cliffy-shuffle… Run Forest Run… Just keep swimming… Tip-toe through the tulips!  My body was tired after 5 hours of running but I was relaxed and happy. I attempted to take another gel (I’d only had 2 gels, quarter of a vegemite sandwich and lollies). I sucked back a bit and carried the packet in my right hand until the end. I hydrated often.

My splits for the final 5km were slow; 6:12, 6:12, 6:19, 6:25 and finished a fraction stronger with 5:38min pace. Although the last few kilometres were tough and tiring, the people hanging outside their cars from the opposite direction were awesome! They were yelling, “Go Kate!”… “You’ve got this!”… “You’re amazing!” I smiled weakly as I focused on the finish line. I thought about how close I was and started to feel sick. Stay in the moment… You are going to finish this… Don’t push!

As I approached the finishing chute, everyone was clapping and encouraging me. I crossed the line in 5 hours 52min! Friends were on the sideline showing their support. Including Serena, who had already finished. It was an awesome moment. One of the happiest running moments in my life! I made the Great Ocean Road my friend (and I had fun)!

My body was feeling tired but good. My legs and hips were amazing. My shoulder was average but still not as bad as the first 30km.

Who would have thought the last 30km would be easier, and the steepest hills were the best part?! It just goes to show, anything can happen in distance running. You should never give up because you might feel better just around the corner (or over the hill)!

Post event -

After we took post-race photos, and I met up with two of my running clients (both achieved GOR 23km personal bests), we headed to the apartment for a shower. I was drinking my chocolate milk when Ricci and her friends returned. We just missed each other at the finish line. Ricci also managed a GOR 23km personal best (I was a happy runner and coach)! I placed 8^th (happy with top 10).

The pub was next door to our complex so we could relax and have a wine (or four)! And that we did! The post-race celebrations were the best! There was a rock-band playing, other runners partying and a dance floor. We wore our medals around our necks and soaked up the joy and danced the afternoon away (I didn’t dance the night away… we bought take-away at 7pm and I fell asleep at 9pm… I woke at 1am because I was hungry)! It was crazy fun!

Lessons -

1. Get my shoulder fixed! I’ve had the issue for 20 years and never investigated it (time has come for a proper diagnosis).

2. Relax completely and breathe deeply (especially if you feel any pain).

3. Don’t worry about pace! There are rolling hills the whole way so focus on effort level instead of pace. It’s more enjoyable and easier to manage.

4. Don’t try to keep up with the Joneses… (self-explanatory)

5. Look up and take in the scenery!

6. Never give up because you might feel better just around the corner (or over the hill)!

7. Never miss a good post-race party!

Event feedback and will there be a next time -

The event, scenery, weather and people were awesome! This is a must-do race! It is highly organised and professional. The finish line is outside the front of the Apollo Bay hotel, which offers a fun, supportive atmosphere.

The road is hard on your body but the scenery is second to none! According to Garmin, the ultra course measured 59.3km and 1300m elevation (however I think I lost satellites). 

For more information on the 23km and 44km distance, please see previous race reports. Thanks for everything Great Ocean Road!

The Great Train Race 2017

The Great Train Race – Puffing Billy 
Sunday 30^th April, 2017

Puffing Billy is a run with a difference; just over 3,000 people meet in the beautiful suburb of Belgrave (35km east of the CBD) to race against the train.

Puffing Billy is a century-old steam train that runs from Belgrave to Gembrook, through forests, fern gullies and farmlands in the Dandenong Ranges. Puffing Billy was built to serve but is now a major tourist attraction for locals and overseas visitors. The ride is suitable for all ages and everyone can hang their legs over the side of the carriage, as they witness the stunning ‘Mountain Ash’ trees (a form of eucalypt and the tallest flowering plant in the world) and famous timber bridges (the biggest spanning 91m long and 12.8m high). On a clear day, views extend to Port Phillip Bay, Arthurs Seat and Westernport. And many of the stations along the way offer markets, cafes or a history lesson.

http://puffingbilly.com.au/en/events-and-dining/gtr/

The Great Train Race isn't simply a race amongst the competitors - it's an exciting challenge competing against the steam locomotive, Puffing Billy!

The race route extends 13.5 km's through the hills and fern gullies of the picturesque Dandenong Ranges from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park. The continual popularity of this unique run makes the Great Train Race an event not to be missed. The Great Train Race is organised by Puffing Billy Railway volunteers. It is an annual fundraiser for the Puffing Billy Preservation Society – this years contribution will go to Menzies Creek Museum redevelopment project.

GTR 2017 EVENT INFORMATION

Date	Sunday 30th April 2017
Distance	13.5km
Start Time	9:30am
Cut off time	120 minutes | 11:30am
Start Line	Belgrave - Gembrook Rd, Belgrave Victoria
Finish Line	Lakeside Station: Emerald Lake Park, Emerald
Qualifying Standard	75minutes, 10km flat
GTR Contact	race@pbr.org.au

The race against the train consists of two trains (see below for finishing times);

	Race Train 1	Race Train 2
2017	55:24	72:09
2016	56:20	79:08
2015	51:47	70:43
2014	60:26	81:31

RACE NOTES:

The maximum number of runners competing is 3,200. Whilst the course is 13.5km in distance, it consists of a hilly route, using public tarmac, dirt roads and multi-purpose trails. Competitors are recommended to have a solid base of training. The Great Train Race is not a walking event (there are strict cut-offs). Whilst we understand competitors may need to walk at some points (especially up those gruelling hills) it’s expected that you can run majority of the way. Note: Prequalifying time is required when registering for the 2017 Great Train Race.

Returning to Belgrave (Start Line)

Your choice of transport back to Belgrave is included in the registration fee.

Puffing Billy: Whilst spectators are required to have pre-purchased a Race Day Puffing Billy Race Train ticket, Runners bibs are the Race Train tickets for competitors. Trains return from Lakeside (Emerald Lake Park) at the following times*: 11:00am | 11:20am | 11:50am | 1:10pm | 3:30pm.

Charter Bus: A fleet of charted buses will depart Emerald Lake for Belgrave from 11:00am – 12noon (approx.).

Pre-race –

Puffing Billy is amazing! I have run the event two or three times before (with Brad). The last time we ran Puffing Billy was 2012 (1hr 16min). This time I was simply running it for fun! I knew the course was beautiful and vibe was exciting. There were also hills (which was good preparation for GOR).

Previous to this event, I ran Princess Park 50km (4 weeks earlier) and 35km training run (2 weeks earlier). I’d also hit the hills. I knew I could last the distance but had no clue how to tackle it… Should I go fast? Should I take it easy? Should I walk the hills? My Achilles was a bit sore due to hill repeats (but it was tolerable). I had no plan but that was OK.

The night before race day, I prepared my bag with a change of clothes (weather forecast was a chance of rain). I selected my running attire; long tights, black singlet, long-sleeve top, Injinji socks, Brooks Glycerin runners, Garmin 235 and a windbreaker! I took my iPod and Ventolin (cold weather had exacerbated my asthma). I packed the car ready for an early morning.

Race day –

I woke at 6:30am and snuck out of our bedroom (Brad was sleeping). My eldest son was awake but I expected that. I had a milo and I grabbed a muesli bar to eat in the car. It took about an hour to reach Belgrave. There was plenty of parking behind the shops on the main road. I parked the car and messaged my friends. They arrived a few minutes after me. We organised ourselves; trip to the toilets, attached our bibs, collected our bags and headed over the road to the start area. There was already a high-energy vibe in the air. The temperature was cold but no rain. We took some photos and had a look around. We walked down to Belgrave station and took more photos of the old steam trains. I held onto my windbreaker until we had to drop our bags. I decided to run with my long-sleeve top and Ventolin (which is the first time in years). My chest was tight and I wanted Ventolin with me (as a safety net).

After visiting the bag drop and chatting to a few people we knew, we headed to the start area. The announcer made mention of sponsors and volunteers, and our national anthem was performed. The countdown finished and we started our race against the train! I concentrated on my own race.

I started off feeling good; legs felt strong and I could breathe pretty easy. The first few kilometres were a reasonable pace; 4:42, 5min, 5:06, 4:45 and 4:38. I was rolling with the hills, plodding uphill and making up for lost time on the downhill. I took in the atmosphere, people and scenery. Belgrave and surrounding suburbs are full of ferns and greenery (Mountain Ash trees are the tallest flowering plant in the world). I love running in nature! We heard the unmistakable whistle of Puffing Billy and looked to our right. People waved and dangled their legs over the edge of carriage rails. At the first train-crossing, I was forced to stop and wait for the train to pass. 

I reached 5km in under 25min. I find it interesting to reflect on my splits, however I wasn’t focused on pace at the time. The changes in elevation made it too difficult. I just ran! From 5-7km, we ran up a long, unrelenting, dirt hill. The course was mainly on asphalt, with some dirt road and small sections of single-track (non-technical). The air was fresh (cold) and unfamiliar flora and fauna irritated my lungs. I inhaled Ventolin (which elevated my heart rate). It made breathing easier but I prefer not to take it while running (I don’t like feeling my HR increase). My next two splits were 5:41 and 5:44 (both approximately 50m elevation gain). I put my head down and Cliffy-shuffled. I vaguely remembered the climb from previously years and held steady until the top. The following two kilometres were much easier and I ran sub 5min pace. There were drink stations along the way (4km and 7km mark) but I didn’t take any notice. I didn’t have any fuel with me, just Ventolin and my iPod. The atmosphere, variety, people and of course, the sounds of Puffing Billy were engaging and I never used my iPod.

At 10km (about 50min), we crossed over the train-tracks at Emerald station (ahead of the second train). There were people cheering from the sidelines (always fun running through small towns and seeing the locals get involved). We veered right and there was a drink station, but I had no need to stop. I continued running onto the single-track section. There were trees over-hanging slightly and some twists and turns. The hills were practically over and I was feeling warmed up (sometimes it takes me awhile). The last few kilometres were easy to navigate, a few corners but lots of fun! My splits were; 4:43, 4:25 and 4:34. I was really happy with that. I crossed the finish line in 1hour 5min.

Post-race –

After I crossed the line, I bumped into a few familiar faces and compared notes. We bought ourselves a drink and agreed we’d catch the train back to Belgrave (even though it took longer than the bus). There’s nothing quite like a ride on the famous Puffing Billy! We admired the ferny gullies and famous timber bridges. The views were spectacular! 

“Spectators are required to have pre-purchased a Puffing Billy ticket, but runners bibs are the tickets for competitors. Trains leave Emerald at; 11:00am, 11:20am, 11:50am, 1:10pm and 3:30pm. The ride is suitable for all ages and everyone can hang their legs over the side of the carriage.”

Later we look up results and discovered the 1st train finished in 55min 24 sec and the second train finished in 72min 9sec. I finished in 65min (knocking off 11mins since the last time I ran it in 2012)! There were some super quick runners on the day with the lead male finishing in 43:10 and lead female in 49:12! Also, special mention to Chris O'Brien for a sub 60min.

 

Lessons – 

1. Hills are a great way to improve strength and speed!

2. Have fun!

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

The Great Train Race is an event that everyone should try! It’s an achievable distance for everyone and the novelty of racing against Puffing Billy is fun and exciting. The hills are challenging but there is no shame in walking certain sections. The volunteers and spectators are wonderful. I’d highly recommend this well-organised, fun, iconic Melbourne event to all of you!

“The Great Train Race isn't simply a race amongst the competitors - it's an exciting challenge competing against the steam locomotive, Puffing Billy! The race route extends 13.5 km's through the hills and fern gullies of the picturesque Dandenong Ranges from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park.”

Wings for Life World Run (Melbourne)

Wings for Life World Run (Melbourne)

Sunday 7^th May 2017

https://live.wingsforlifeworldrun.com/en

Wings for Life is an international not-for-profit spinal cord research foundation. Our mission is to find a cure for spinal cord injury. We fund world-class scientific research and clinical trials around the globe aimed at healing the injured spinal cord. 100% of your entry fee goes to life-changing research projects aimed at healing the injured spinal cord. All administrative costs of the event and foundation are covered by Red Bull. 

Melbourne Start Time is 9.00pm!

Event hub

The Event Hub will be located at Patterson Reserve Auburn Road, Hawthorn East. The Event Hub will feature race check-in, bib and event kit collection, food & beverage stalls, bag drop, first aid, music and entertainment.

Event Kit

Wings for Life World Run Melbourne 2017 participants will receive an awesome event kit bag including;

•    Official #safetyyellow technical event t-shirt and sash

•    Led Lenser NEO headlamp

•    Space blanket (to take with you while you run).

•    Red Bull can

Buses On Course

We have a new bus plan for 2017, changes are as follows:

We’ll have more buses out there on the road ready to pick you up when you’ve been caught by the Catcher Car. There will be team members allocated to each bus who will help passengers on and off each bus. The buses this year will start out on the course. This means they’ll be ready at various points throughout the Monash Freeway to pick up passengers. There will be additional buses located on the route to assist when required with any potential back log. We’ve also streamlined the drop off system, which will allow for buses to return and re-load quicker. There will also be additional buses located on the route. You must either stop where you finish your run or move forward along the run course route until collected. 

Aid Stations

Stations will be located on runners’ right-hand side, at approximately every 5KM along the course. These refuelling stations will have water, Red Bull, 50/50 (Red Bull/water), bananas, toilets and are manned with staff and volunteers. At every second station, approximately every 10KM, there will be First Aid support available on top of the above mentioned items.

Event Schedule

12:00pm Bib collection and event kit collection opens

7:00pm Bib collection and event kit collection closes

7:40pm Official warm up on stage

8:00pm MCs send waves per bib colour to the start line.

9:00pm Global Wings for Life World Run START 

9:30pm Catcher Car leaves the start line at 15KM per hour

10:30pm Catcher Car increases speed to 16KM per hour

11:30pm Catcher Car increases speed to 17KM per hour

12:30am Catcher Car increases speed to 20KM per hour

2:30am Catcher Car increases speed to 35KM per hour

Pre-race - 

I previously entered Wings for Life World Run in 2015 and 2016 (see previous race reports). 

In 2015, Brad and I decided to participate because of the cause; to raise awareness and funds for spinal cord damage. We were inspired by Josh Wood (if you don’t know Josh Wood, watch this clip; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plbvGIDrfew). My good friend (Kelly-Ann Varey), flew down from Canberra to run in the event and amazingly she won the title of 1^st female in Australia! Despite a few teething problems; waiting for buses and a serious lack of atmosphere for the winners (by the end everyone had left)… we had an awesome night! The whole concept was different and exciting. We were running away from the Catcher Car instead of towards a finish line, and we were running in spirit with like-minded people all over the world. Brad and I ran 16km together.

In 2016, I was asked to be an ambassador. Of course, I said yes! The months leading up to it, I was involved in promotions and events. The Red Bull team were great and we achieved a record number of participants (about 3,500). I ran with a friend majority of the way and finished with 25km. The location had moved from a suburban road to the Monash Freeway. There were some issues, particularly buses taking a long time to reach retired runners. And due to typical Melbourne weather, many people struggled with the cold. The other disadvantage was the event fell on Mother’s Day, which deterred some families.

This time (2017), I was very happy to stay on as an ambassador. Wings for Life World Run was bigger and more well-known. A few months prior, I began personal training Irwin Vale (to learn more about Irwin, watch this video; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7_MRZIudhI). I met Irwin through his mum, who is a Fernwood member (where I work). I truly believe we were meant to meet. I introduced Irwin to Jericho (ambassador co-ordinator) and he was offered an ambassador role. Also, Irwin already knew Josh Wood. The pieces of the puzzle were coming together. And I’m grateful to be part of it. Around the same time, I began a Fernwood Mornington Run Club and recruited about 30 participants in my team (360 Running). Again, the Red Bull team were great, the momentum was growing and I was really excited.

Race day -

After concluding mum duties, I made my way into the city for our ambassador lunch. I was excited to pick up Kelly-Ann (as a fellow ambassador, Kelly flew down to run and support the event again). Lunch was a buzz; I met new people and saw some familiar faces too. I had a great chat with Ursula (sister of Erica from Running Divas). As well as Tim Crosbie, Kirstin Bull, Kelly and Irwin. After lunch, I headed to The Blackman Hotel. Red Bull offered us accommodation for the night, which was fantastic (and appreciated given that we were expected to arrive home about 2am)!

I met Brad at The Blackman and we organised our race gear. The weather forecast was cold, cold, cold with a chance of rain and possibly snow (OK, maybe I’m exaggerating slightly). My point is, I was worried about feeling too cold. I wore a singlet, long-sleeve top, Wings for Life reflective top and two jackets, I also wore two pair of long pants. We arrived at the race hub about 7pm and mingled with fellow runners. I planned to meet the Fernwood Run Club at 8pm. Also, I was looking out for friend and client (Ricci) because I arranged to pace her for 21km. Brad wanted to run 21km too however he was battling a calf injury. We agreed to start together and if Brad stopped, I’d continue on with Ricci. The only problem was I couldn’t find Ricci… being dark made it difficult to see people.

I found Irwin and touched base about his goal to walk 500m. We’d been working hard each session and Irwin had walked just over 400m in 30 minutes. I knew his dad and others were walking with him, but there were so many variables like rain, wind and lack of light. And only two lanes were closed, which allowed for traffic to pass on the left hand side. I really hoped Irwin could achieve his goal!

Just before 8pm, I gave up a layer of clothing and organised my headlamp! I caught up with the Fernwood crew and took some happy snaps. And I finally found Ricci! Ricci and I had never run together but I was more than happy to run with her (and Brad). Our goal was 5:20min/km. The announcer requested all runners gather in their assigned start sections. We joined other competitors in Section 2 and cheered on the speedy runners in Section 1 as they moved onto the Monash Freeway. Within a few minutes, we were also lined up on the Freeway. The announcer instructed us to stay in the right lane and explained the Catcher Car would come through on the left. After being caught, we were to continuing moving forwards to the next aid station. Buses would be located at set points and additional buses were available.

The temperature was cold and misty rain started to fall. But the vibe was high and the atmosphere was motivating, as we waited for 9pm to tick over. Everyone was pumped as the announcer yelled “WORLD” and we responded in unison with “RUN!” Soon we would be running with over 100,000 participants all over the world! And we were all there to run for those who can’t!

The countdown began… 5-4-3-2-1 and we were off! The moment I began running, I thought about Irwin… C’mon Irwin!

The first five kilometres were a little faster than 5:20min pace but I wasn’t surprised. Race day adrenaline kicked in! Despite a slight incline, we ran strong and reached 5km in 25:30. I ran between Ricci and Brad; we chatted at points and ran in silence other times. The rain was light and inconsequential.

From 5-10km we slowed down a fraction as the gradient intensified. I reassured Ricci we had time in the bank and were on target. We reached 10km in 52:30. Brad was running really well and although his calf was tight, he was OK. Brad stopped at drink stations along the way and Ricci had a gel and fuel from her hydration vest. I carried a gel but never had it (I generally don’t fuel on training runs less than 30km. I was treating this as a training run). I enjoyed running with Ricci and Brad.

I find running in the dark (and rain) mentally challenging for many reasons; the main reason is poor visibility. Usually I like seeing the faces of other runners and I like chatting. At night, my eyes struggle to adjust and I need to concentrate on foot placement. Each time I looked sideway… I ran sideways! There were cars passing us in the left lanes and spraying water off the road. There were puddles and some slippery sections (I saw two runners fall over). Another factor is daydreaming! When I run (even in a race) my mind wanders… I disconnect from everything around me. At night I concentrate more, which in turns means I focus on running being hard work! Pacing Ricci and Brad allowed me to focus on their goals and not think about running (that makes perfect sense, right?).

The next 5km took about 27min, which was marginally slower than desired. But I was completely confident we would reach our goal. I thought about Irwin… Did he reach his goal? I thought about Run Club… How were they feeling? Were they struggling with the hills or cold weather? Around 15km, I grabbed a cup of Red Bull and water from an aid station. I drank it quickly and continued running. About 1-2km further on, Brad and Ricci started slowing down. I raised the bar and weaved through a cluster of runners. All of a sudden, there was a downpour and I could hardly see anything! It was nuts! I had no idea where Brad and Ricci were… I put the breaks on and found them again. I checked our pace and knew we were close to our goal. At the 18km mark, I said we needed to pick up the pace. Brad said he was struggling and encouraged us to go ahead. Ricci and I pushed on. We were fortunate to have reached a downhill section and our speed improved significantly. Ricci asked me what the plan was after 21km… “Keep running” I replied.

Ricci and I achieved her 21km goal in 1:50:51 (5:17 pace)… Well done!

We continued running in the rain (we both agreed it was a better option than walking in the rain) and heard some noise behind us. The bikes came through saying, “We’re coming for you! The Catcher Car is coming!” I tempted Ricci with one last challenge; to reach 22km. We ran strong, as we saw the Catcher Car gaining on us. We officially completed 22km! Brad made 21km!

Post race -

After we stopped running, we continued walking until the next bus stop. Ricci was tired but happy. We were both cold and soaking wet, but using our space blankets helped (we were given space blankets in our packs and advised to take them with us). When we reached the aid station, volunteers were handing out water. Not long after, Brad caught up. We waited 10minutes for buses to arrive. There were volunteers to assist us on the bus and someone handing out lollies.

I checked my phone and saw that Irwin had surpassed his goal! (With support from his family and Josh.) EXTRAORDINARY! (I had happy tears!) Irwin walked over 500m after doctors said he would never walk again! CONGRATULATIONS Irwin… You should be very proud! A massive achievement!

When we exited the bus there was a strong presence of volunteers. There were free hot drinks and water. We were given directions to walk under the bridge and back to the hub. Brad headed straight for the bag drop area. We both needed to change into dry, warm clothes. We bumped into a few friendly faces and shared our experience. But quickly made our way to the car to defrost.

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

After last year I was concerned about the issue with the buses (we waited a very long time after finishing running, due to uncontrollable circumstances). However, this year was great! Red Bull listened to the feedback and made significant changes with buses already being on course. There was a much stronger volunteer presence. The volunteers were fantastic and friendly! Everything was organised and under control. We were advised to carry space blankets with us, which made a big difference (especially considering the weather). The event was safe, supported and fun. The atmosphere and vibe was energizing. And the Catcher Car was awesome! Most importantly, my role as an ambassador gave me an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for spinal cord damage (for people like Irwin and Josh). Thank you! And YES there will always be next year!

Special mention to the Fernwood Mornington Run Club... Well done on all your hard work and achieving your goals! I'm proud of you!

https://www.facebook.com/WingsForLifeWorldRun/

111 locations, 155,288 participants and 1,431,183km covered... Wings for Life World Run 2017 was beyond epic! Thank you all!

For more information about the Wings for Life Spinal Cord Research Foundation, follow this link;

http://www.wingsforlife.com/en/