The Tan Marathon 2018

The Tan Marathon
June 24^th2018
http://www.trailsplus.com.au/tan/

The passion that is TrailsPlus came about more-or-less by accident, or maybe that should be injury. A mid-life crisis, some may call it, took founder, Brett Saxon, from the extremely busy work environment and the couch straight to the trail.Though it was not that straight forward or easy, a determination to regain a higher level of fitness and well-being lead to a regimented training exercise program culminating in a challenge to also help others.Brett set his goal on raising $25,000 for young people living with cancer through the Canteen organisation. He set himself the challenge of running 160km in 24hrs. Once this challenge was behind him the passion lead to the next and the next. Unfortunately the body started to break down and that’s when Trails+ was created. The thought of turning back the clock on the physical gains and the idea of loosing contact with the amazing trail running scene were options not to be considered.Solving the problem seemed easy: create a trail event and keep involved. Brett couldn't run any more and was told to give it up totally. Too stubborn to take the advice, he stayed involved and TrailsPlus grew and continues to grow.With the help of many friends and volunteers, TrailsPlus exists to provide opportunities to those who want to test their own limitations and take the challenge or next step and find their limits.At TrailsPlus that is what we encourage: take the plunge (or next step), find your limit and break it! But most of all - ENJOY THE JOURNEY!! 

The Tan Ultra

This urban park trail run is held on the TAN walking and running track around the Melbourne botanic gardens. This beautiful part of our garden city is a great place for spectators to enjoy a morning around the gardens, the Myer Music Bowl and along the Yarra River. Across the road, by the river are BBQ facilities for those who would like to enjoy a picnic. 

The ability to continue holding the Tan Trail Run very much depends on how we, as users, conduct ourselves on the course. It is highly likely that you will come across many obstacles including runners and walkers. Please be respectful and make your way around them as they have equal rights to the public park. There will be dogs on long leads too and we understand it can be frustrating, but it is imperative that we do not say or do anything that could bring about a complaint from the public. Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.

Pre-race– Back story...

This year I’ve run Carrum Coast Guard Run 10km, Beer Run 10km, My Mt. Eliza Run 10km (with Lucas), walked 3km at Wings for Life Melbourne (with Mum) and MS Run 10km. In other words, I haven’t done much compared to previous years!

In 2016, I ran The Tan marathon as my first full marathon post hip-surgery (exactly one year later). This time, I hoped to run The Tan marathon as my first full marathon post injury (exactly one year since my last marathon… Surfcoast trail marathon). The Tan seemed to have significance in my running life. It symbolised new beginnings and hope! All I needed to do was run Anderson St. hill a few times (okay… 11 times)!

In 2016, I was very underprepared and clocked 4:06 (my slowest time ever) and I won! I had mixed feelings but mostly happiness and gratitude (for being able to run post-surgery).

This year (2018), I had no time goal. I estimated around 4 hours but I doubted my body. For the last year, I managed an ongoing injury. 

*Short version: My hips have a structural issue (Femoroacetabular impingement), which led to Labral tears. My left hip caused me grief for years before I opted for surgery. My right hip has been symptomatic for a few years. A year ago, my dog knocked me over and hurt my knee. Diagnosis was joint sprain (took months to recover) and ITB friction syndrome (still managing). It exacerbated my hip issues, which will never go away. The test is how I can manage it without surgery… no hills, limited distance, treat tight (over-protective) muscles, clinical pilates (motor-control), change shoes to Hokas, regular chiropractic adjustments… and I’m still figuring out the rest!

Thinking about running a marathon for the first time in a year made me nervous. But I was excited at the same time. In the two-weeks before race day, I decreased distance and increased treatments. I also took anti-inflammatories (not ideal but my pain had increased since my longest training run). The night before I was restless so I used Buddhify (iPhone app) to fall asleep. It was perfect… the meditation focused on two words, one positive – HOPE and one to pass any negative thoughts or feelings – RELEASE. I slept well and woke ready to run.

Race day– 

I woke at 5:30am and had oats and a cup of green tea. I wore my long tights, singlet, long sleeve top, gloves, Trailsplus buff, Injinji socks and Hoka Cliftons. The weather was cold but no rain or wind. It was a great day to run a marathon. In my bag, I packed two At One bars https://atonefoods.com.au. I’d trained using the bars before, but never raced with them so I took one Endura Vanilla gel too. Brad’s dad agreed to mind our boys while we were away. We left home about 6:30am and picked up friends on the way (Serena and Peter). They’d just run Comrades two weeks prior!

We arrived at the event hub, collected our bibs and said hello to a few fellow runners. The marathon distance started at 8am. There were 32 participants in the marathon and approximately 300 people in total (4km, 12km, 21km, 42km, 50km and 100km). I was quiet but calm. I decided I would run by feel, count the hills and focus on being relaxed… shoulders, arms, hands, hips, quads, calves, feet… all relaxed. Obviously there’s not much to say about the course because it’s loops. Anderson St. hill is a relatively small climb followed by a gentle downhill. I wanted to plod up the hill at least six times, after which I would give myself permission to walk it. I began conservatively 5:25, 5:47 (hill), 5:17, 5:09, 5:11, 5:36 (hill), 5:15, 5:10, 5:22, 5:41 (hill). I glanced each time my Garmin beeped to signify the kilometre-mark but I never looked at my watch in-between. I also tried not to count kilometres but only count the hills. After all, 11 hills sounds like less than 42km! 

Brad was on the sidelines and passed me whatever I asked for, I had water and half an At One bar after two laps, electrolytes and the other half of the bar after four laps. I saw my running buddy Chris. He ran and chatted with me for a bit. Chris and I both ran The Tan marathon in 2016. He’s very supportive and we can both talk underwater so he’s a great running partner. 

At some stage (I can’t remember when) I had the gel and more water. I was feeling comfortable and my strategy of counting the hills was working. I was calm and relaxed. My hips were ok too. Due to the good weather, the track was busy with people walking dogs. There were also spectators and supporters near the start line, so I was refueled by words of encouragement every lap. The only time I paid attention to the clock was the half marathon point, I reached 21.1km in 1:53. I was on track to break 4 hours, which was fantastic (and a little unexpected). It spurred me on and my splits increased slightly. The next split was a sub 5min (woah… slow down Nelly). I maintained pace throughout the whole run, naturally dropping when I hit the hill and taking advantage of the downhill by leaning forwards. The last two laps, I started to fatigue. Brad handed me another bar and drink. I turned on my music and tuned out. My splits from 34km were 5:00, 5:08, 6:06 (hill and trying to get my iPod out of my back pocket). My hips were hurting. I held onto my positive word – HOPE and let go of negative thoughts or feelings – RELEASE.

I shuffled up Anderson St. hill 10 times. The last hill, I walked a small section and I saw Chris again. He asked me what my watch said… 3hrs 33min with just over two-kilometres to go. That was the first time I realised, I was definitely going to break 4 hours. What a relief! All I had to do was put one foot in front of the other and cross the finish line. My final splits were 5:31 and 5:00min/km. I crossed the line in 3:47:18. I was super happy! I hugged Brad, Serena and Chris. 

Post-race– 

I kept moving straight afterwards to make sure my hips didn’t cramp. Someone told me I placed, so we stayed for presentations. I was lucky enough to snag 2^ndfemale (6^thoverall). Serena placed 2^ndfemale in the half marathon and Peter ticked off another marathon. We thanked Brett and Trailsplus for another fantastic event. I’m always happy to support a Trailsplus event (especially when I heard The Tan was at risk of being shut down). I really like it! And I encourage all runners to give it a go!

Post race, feedback and next time– 

The next day (today) I’ve had a float at The Private Sea, I’ve eaten well (and taken a few drugs) and I booked in for a chiropractic adjustment. I'm so fortunate that I'm married to a chiropractor! I’m definitely taking it easy this week with some walks and gentle foam rolling. I have a decent blood blister on my big toe (bad biomechanics) so I can’t wear shoes. My hips are stiff and sore. However my runner’s high is big enough to overcome everything! I’m feeling bloody fantastic and grateful to be running marathon distances again. Thank you.

In 2016, I said I wouldn’t run The Tan marathon again… so will there be a next time? You’ll have to wait and see J

MS Walk + Fun Run 2018

MS 10km Run & 5km Walk

June 3^rd2018

https://www.mswalk.org.au

A carefully curated day out – the MS Walk + Fun Run is a combination of the classic fun run model, a big spoonful of community spirit, and a sprinkle of health and wellness, all mixed together to create an opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. 

We’re all about moving forward to support Australians living with multiple sclerosis together. So, whether you’re a keen runner or more of a walking wonder, join us as we step towards a better future for those who are affected by MS. 

Located in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra, the MS Walk + Fun Run isn’t just a must do event on the cardio calendar. It also helps to raise much needed awareness, and works towards helping those who live with this devastating neurological condition. 

Almost 12,000 people take part across the three cities and MS Walk + Fun Run participants have raised millions of dollars to fund essential services and support for people living with multiple sclerosis while the search for a cure continues.

Together we can beat MS. 

Pre-race– 

My sole reason for participating in MS Melbourne is my good friend Kim (who has MS). There’s not much to say except Kim is one of the kindest people I know. She’s kind, considerate, thoughtful and nurturing. She’s a wonderful mum and friend. Last year, Kim established “Team Bedders” to take part in MS Melbourne however we had prior commitments. This year, there was no way I was missing it! Lucas and I signed up for 10km and, Brad and Nate signed up for 5km. Even mum joined Team Bedders for the 5km walk. 

About a week before race day, Lucas picked up a cold and cough. Also, Brad had work commitments, which prevented him from attending the event. We decided I’d still run the 10km, and Mum and our boys could walk the 5km.

Race day– 

I left home around 7:30am and drove to Albert Park (but somehow managed to get lost on the way). I arrived at the event hub with about 15 minutes to spare. Luckily, Kim hired out the Boat Shed and we had private facilities including toilets. I quickly said hello, grabbed my iPod and rushed to the start line. Within a few minutes, I was running. 

The first couple of kilometres were congested because I started back from the front. My original plan was to run super slow because I was running with Lucas. But now that I could spread my wings… my plan changed. My new goal was run hard (even though I’d run 22km the day before)! My first two splits were 4:37 and 4:33min/km. I doubted my ability to maintain pace so I dropped back to 4:40min/km. The course was two laps of Albert Park Lake, which is flat and easy. Sometimes you can experience strong headwinds but it was really calm. The weather was cold and sunny. Perfect conditions for running. I ran strong and held pace the whole way. During the last section, I thought about Kim. I thought about the challenges she’s already faced (and ones to come). I thought about the fatigue and pain, and her commitment to looking after her family despite her own struggles. I wish I could do more. However, I’m grateful I can run for a cause. Running allows me to make a difference.

I crossed the finished line in 46:10 (4:37min pace). The course was 100-metres short but I’m really happy with my time. I also walked 5km with Team Bedders, and my family. Team Bedders raised over $7,500 for MS. What a fantastic effort! Hopefully next year, we can raise even more. 

*Unfortunately I have two friends with MS (and another friend who is waiting diagnosis). There is no cure. We need to raise more awareness and funds to continue research and improve treatments.   

Race feedback and will there be a next time– 

Albert Park Lake is always pleasant to run around… an easy, flat course with a scenic view. The event was well organised and ran smoothly. “Team Bedders” was very lucky to have access to the Boat Shed (made the day even better). The weather was chilly but sunny. And running for the cause (and Kim) was important to me. Of course, we’ll be back next year!

Mt. Eliza & Wings for Life 2018

My Mt. Eliza fun run (Myeloma) 10km

March 25^th2018

http://mymounteliza.org.au/fun-run-register/




The MY Mount Eliza festival is the brainchild of Mt Eliza local
Geoff Nyssen  who, in 2014 at the age of 40, was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a terminal blood cancer.  With this devastating circumstance, Geoff has found a way forward – trumping adversity with empowerment and inspiring and rallying others along the way to live well.  The MY Mount Eliza Festival will boast the values that Geoff and the MY Mount Eliza committee believe form the foundation for an engaged and resilient community.

Come down to the Mount Eliza Regional Park, on Two Bays Road, to be part of Mt Eliza’s only trail run event. Challenge your fitness on a 5km or 10km course and engage with community while fundraising for a worthwhile cause.  

The MY Mount Eliza trail run offers two distances in and around the picturesque Mount Eliza Regional Park and Moorooduc Quarry setting, located on the Mornington Peninsula. The event will utilise professional “live” timing and the course will be marked out with support/aid stations along the way. BIB collections/sign in and on the day registrations open from 7.30am although only limited BIBs will be available on the day.  

Starting at Mount Eliza Regional Park, the 10km trail run travels the same line as the 5km course with two main departures, namely the quarry and Wooralla Drive hills. The trail run will leave from the fringe of the festival space within the Mount Eliza Regional Park and head along a myriad of trails where you reach the first departure, which incorporates a steady climb to the top of the Moorooduc Quarry. It is here that you can soak up the views for a minute and descend down the last of the 470 steps to the marshalling point for a well-deserved drink.  You then cross Balcombe Creek, and pass adjacent to the lake where you will be cheered on by the Festival spectators. You will proceed along the railway trail towards Wooralla Drive where you encounter the second departure as the trail leads up a short hill on Wooralla Drive which is sure to get your legs working and heart beating.  As you head up the hill, you will run into the adjacent parkland, taking in some beautiful bushland views.  You will meander back to the bottom of Wooralla Drive, then heading back along the railway trail leading you to the finish line in the heart of the festival space within Mount Eliza Regional Park.

Pre-race – 

My Mt. Eliza run is an event that we participate in because the founder (Geoff Nyssen) is a dad from our school. It’s a local run for us, and it was my eldest son’s (Lucas) first 10km in 2017 (he was 10 years old). Lucas has run two 10km events now (Mt. Eliza and Traralgon) but I haven’t blogged about them. I thought I’d write a little something this time. There’s not much of a pre-race story. I’m always happy to run with Lucas and there’s no pressure. Last year, he ran 1:06 (not bad for a hilly course). This year the course was different (probably more hills) but Lucas hadn’t trained as much. Being a coach, I wrote him a program (of course) but he wasn’t as motivated as last year. 

Race day – 

We arrived early and chatted to the other school families we knew. The start hub was a large grassed area at the bottom of the Moorooduc Quarry. There were activities for the kids like Sumo suits, an obstacle course and more. They ran around with their friends until the event was due to start. My hubby and youngest were running the 5km. Lucas and I were taking on the 10km. We started slightly back from the front of the pack, which allowed us to relax.  

The 10km course begins along the same track as the 5km distance until it reaches the quarry. Then it climbs up the big uneven stairs to the lookout point. Lucas and I ran steadily until we reached the steps, and walked to the top. There was some confusion which way to go. We took our time and followed the crowd to the right, along the track until we reached the man-made steps. We ran down (slowly because there was congestion). The path continued along a series of twists and turns for a few kilometres. I encouraged Lucas to pace carefully and run slowly. We reached Wooralla Drive and walked uphill. This is a steep climb and we were happy to walk. There was a right turn onto bushland that was uneven and challenging. Lucas was getting tired and his heels were hurting. We made it back onto the footpath and ran down to the railway track. There were only a few kilometres to go, and I knew he could make it. We continued across the grass, down a ditch and around the last corner. As soon as Lucas could see the finish line, he picked up his pace and finished strong. He was about 1min slower than last year! I was really proud of him!

Race feedback and will there be a next time – 

Lucas and I enjoyed the run, local community and vibe. Unfortunately there was course tampering so a large group of runners went the wrong way. Plus, the timing chips malfunctioned! Therefore no winners were awarded. 

For us, we will be back next year to support the cause and our school friends.

Wings for Life World Run (Melbourne)

Sunday 6^thMay 2018

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!

The Event Hub will be located at Patterson ReserveAuburn 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.

Buses On Course

We’ll have more buses out there on the road ready to pick you up when you’ve been caught by the Catcher Car. 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. 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. 

Pre-race - 

This is the fourth year I’ve participated in Wings for Life World Run (Melbourne). The last three years, I’ve been an ambassador and this year, Brad became an ambassador too. I’m not going to say much about race day this year because I’ve written blog posts before. The difference this time was my family joined in, including my mum, brother and sister-in-law. I walked with my mum (instead of running). We started a team (360 Running) and had 20 members, many of them from Fernwood Mornington Run Club (my work). 

Race day -

Brad and I attended the ambassador lunch in the city and mingled with some important people. I caught up with Irwin (from last year), Josh Wood and a few other familiar faces. We checked into our accommodation at The Travelodge and took advantage of precious childfree time. We relaxed! After a few hours, we went for a stroll and grabbed an early dinner from the food court downstairs. About 6pm, we drove to the event hub in Hawthorn. The temperature was cool but ok. There was no sign of rain (unlike previous years).

I wore a singlet, long-sleeve top, Wings for Life top and a jacket. And long tights. We had ambassador photos around 7pm and I met the Fernwood girls about 7:30pm. My mum, brother, S-I-L and I made our way to the start line as instructed. We walked from the reserve, down the ramp, onto the Monash Freeway. We turned our headlamps on and huddled in the crowd. My mum was nervous (she’s 74 years old, had a knee replacement and needs another one). This was way outside her comfort zone. 

The race started and little yellow minions began running in front of us. I reassured mum that it was ok to walk at her own pace. She was on a mission! Despite pain, mum continued walking. Just before 3km, we could see the Catcher Car in the distance. Like the crazy runner that I am, I decided to sprint for a few hundred metres until the car caught me just after 3km. Nothing like a sprint finish! I walked back to mum and checked in. After a short wait, the first bus arrived and we joined a dozen other people who were already aboard. Mum, my brother and my S-I-L had successfully completed their first Wings for Life World Run (Melbourne). Well done!

Post race, feedback and next time -

It was really good to arrive at the event hub at a reasonable hour and see other runners come in. I waited for Brad and the Fernwood crew to return. Everyone ran strong, conditions were perfect and logistically everything was great. It was the best year so far! And of course, I’ll be back!

THIS WAS THE WINGS FOR LIFE WORLD RUN 2018

Thank you all for this incredible day. More than 100,000 people came together across the planet at Event Runs, App Runs or running individually with the App, and the vibe was unforgettable! Now, every cent of the funds raised is helping researchers get closer to a cure for spinal cord injury. We can hardly wait for next year!

For more information about the Wings for Life Spinal Cord Research Foundation, follow this link; http://www.wingsforlife.com/en/