Marysville Marathon 2016

Marysville Marathon

Sunday 6^th November

http://marysvillemarathon.com.au

Brett Saxon from Trailsplus, is the Race Director of the RACV Marysville Marathon Festival.

History:

The Marysville Marathon Festival features running events of 4km, 10km, Half Marathon (21km), Marathon (42km) and Ultramarathon (50km) on scenic valley trails and forest tracks, bypassing sparkling rivers and waterfalls. The participants travel alongside the Steavenson River and Falls. The Marysville Marathon Festival was born from the ashes of the 2009 Black Saturday fires. Ultra Runner and Local GP, Dr. Lachlan Fraser, is passionate about his hometown Marysville and surrounding communities. His vision to create the Marysville Marathon Festival was about bringing people back to Marysville. He wanted to be sure the town and communities received the support they needed. He knew this wouldn’t happen overnight. The creation of Marysville Marathon Festival was never planned to be a once off event, it was to be here for the long haul.

The Neil McKern Marathon (1946 – 2014)

Dr. Neil McKern and his wife Carol lost their part-time home in Marysville in the 2009 fires, which they rebuilt in following years.  They joined in the community recovery, and Neil was instrumental in establishing the Marysville Marathon Festival.  Neil excelled at running in the late 1970s. In 1978, he came second in the Victorian Amateur Athletic Marathon Championships in 2hr 21min. He was an esteemed CSIRO scientist, accomplished musician and gardener, and a loving family man.

Pre-race - 

After running The Tan marathon in August, I secured my spot for Two Bays 56km in January 2017. My focus since then was hills! I started training at Lysterfield and on the Two Bays trail. I scheduled hill repeats and worked on leg strength. I entered Surfcoast Hell Run and Marysville. Marysville was an important run for me, but mostly it served a bigger purpose (preparation for Two Bays). The elevation for Marysville was 1600m (more than Two Bays) so I knew it was a good test! I trained hard on trails and hills during the weeks prior. I ran 35km on the Two Bays trail only two weeks before Marysville. I was prepared and excited! The other reason I wanted to run Marysville was the 2009 fires (as mentioned above). I remember Black Saturday very clearly. It was beyond heartbreaking. And once again, this would be a rewarding way to help a community in need.

My aim was to finish the marathon feeling good and strong (and take photos along the way). My injuries were generally OK, but both hips tend to seize from long, hilly runs. My left hip (operated one) was relatively good. However, my right hip had deteriorated significantly over recent months. I asked Brad to Rocktape both legs in an attempt to deactivate my hip flexors. I had no time goal but suspected I would finish somewhere between 5hrs – 5hrs 15min. Strangely, I wanted the extra time on feet so it was OK to go slow. My other goal was not to GET LOST! Somehow I managed to get lost at Surfcoast Hell Run and I was slightly paranoid about history repeating.

So, some of you might have seen on my 360 Running Facebook group, that I often surprise my husband (Brad) with race entries. It usually involves me suggesting a race that will help with another race… A couple of months earlier, Brad signed up for Two Bays 28km. All his idea! I suggested Marysville half marathon as a training run. It was an added bonus that we could drive up together and stay the night before in a local hotel. We booked The Black Spur – humble, country-style accommodation – and it was perfect. It was quiet and calm. I packed my hydration vest with gels, protein balls, rice bars, first aid kit (with snake bandage), space blanket, and dissolved a Nuun tablet in the bladder. I organised my compressive and Luluemon shorts, Trailsplus singlet, compression socks, sunnies, Garmin and Brooks Glycerin. I considered wearing trail shoes; I tested out my Saucony Peregrine a couple of weeks prior and they were OK. But my calves pulled up tight. I didn’t want to risk injury. I ran efficiently in Glycerin and decided to stick with what worked. The weather was the biggest factor when deciding on shoes. We’d experienced some rainfall, enough to soften the ground but hopefully not too much to make it slippery. Time would tell.

We had dinner in the restaurant but I started with stomach pain (I had some digestive issues from bad PMS again). I left dinner early and went back to the room to rest. Eventually I fell asleep.

Race day -

In the morning, I woke early with an uneasy stomach. The pain from the previous night had subsided but… lets just say I popped a few Gastro Stop! As mentioned in previous posts, I blame nerves (and PMS) for overactive digestion!

Once we got our shit together (pardon the pun)… We drove to the event registration area and arrived in plenty of time to organise our bibs, and mingle with fellow runners. The weather was fresh but surprisingly good for running. Before too long, we were called to the start line and misty rain began falling. Brett (Trailsplus) announced the countdown and we headed off to the right (and uphill).

The first 8km were a mixture of uphill and downhill with an easy, non-technical trail. I was relatively comfortable and maintained tempo.  The surroundings were green and Taggerty River was flowing freely on our left hand side. It was really pretty and I was happy! 

Around 9km, we hit Lady Talbot Drive (a loop) and started to climb. My pace dropped to over 6min per kilometre as I began to walk a little. I chatted to a fellow runner who was visiting from America. We talked about the fires, creepy crawlies, snakes and geography. The climbing continued without respite until the 16km mark… (Between 14-15km we covered over 130m elevation gain and my split was over 12min). From 17km until around 24km, we ran downhill. Now this is where I’ll stop and explain…

My memory is terrible and the run was over a month ago now (should’ve downloaded my thoughts straight away). So, I’m using Strava to jog my memory.

The downhill sections started as Lady Talbot Drive looped back around and were just as steep as the uphill. Steep downhills provide a different kind of challenge especially on a rocky trail. My mantra for this section was Concentrate – Concentrate – Concentrate! My brain hurt from analyzing every step. On these types of trails, foot placement is so important! About 21km we returned to the easier, less technical trail. I relaxed a little, soaked up the scenery again and took in some deep breaths.

Around 29km, we ran back through the start area and continued up the road towards our ascent to Steavenson Falls. The trail became single track and there were a few really tough kilometres… (Elevation gain was 90m, 119m, 95m and 120m and splits were 9min, 12min, 10min and 15min respectively).

Seriously people… It took me 15 minutes to cover 1-kilometre!

My mantra was God please help me – God please help me! After 30km, my legs were TIRED! I was strangely happy but tired. Along the way, I met another runner who wasn’t feeling great and I offered him a protein ball. I soldiered onwards and upwards until eventually I reached the lookout (and an aid station). HOORAY! I remember the aid stations along the way were more than adequate but I didn’t need anything. However when I saw the aid station at the lookout, I was so happy to see faces of support! I stopped and chatted, took photos and helped myself to some potato chips. I was feeling a little sick in the stomach (after 2 gels and a rice bar) and I needed something savory. I said thanks and returned to the single track. I ran about 100 metres and decided I wanted more chips so I ran back to the aid station (yes I’m a bit strange but damn those chips were good). I took another handful and with a spring in my step (or was it a limp), I started running again. Only 6km to go!

On the way down, I admired the greenery until I nearly tripped over a gutted wallaby! (Not a great sight for anyone, especially a vegetarian). I shook it off and continued twisting and weaving along the trail. I stopped to take more photos of the view (the damage from the fires remains so widespread). And a fellow runner caught up to me and said hello. We ended up continuing at a similar pace and practically running the last 5km together. I stopped a couple more times for photos (and a short video of the waterfall), and he would catch up. Then we would run together again.  We weren’t breaking any speed records (our splits averaged 6-6:30min) but the conversation was a great distraction. It was much easier to keep ticking my legs over. He told me Marysville was his first marathon (crazy but awesome)! As we came around the last bend, I saw Brad waiting to take some happy snaps. He encouraged me to keep pushing as we entered the race precinct. I was so happy to see the finish line! I crossed the line in 5 hours 11 seconds. I was happy and proud of my efforts.

Post race -

Soon as I finished, I congratulated my new running buddy (super job especially for a first marathon). I found Brad and he asked how I was feeling. My hips were sore and tired but otherwise I was OK. And I had some numbness and tingling in my left foot (nerve sensations from my hip/back) around 30km… (Yes something I need to manage better).

After hydrating (and purchasing an event top), I noticed some fellow RIOT friends. I knew sitting wasn’t a good idea (tight hip flexors) but I could lie down (prone) and still chat.

There were around 70 participants in the marathon; I finished 19^th overall and 5^th female. I was happy with my time and navigational skills (YAY I didn’t get lost)! 

Lessons -

1. Pack my own potato chips… they were the best!

2. Manage my hips better… I know what I need to do!  

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

The course was well-marked, and the race briefing and notes were thorough (as always from Brett). The aid stations and volunteers were great!

Marysville marathon is a tough course but the views, scenery and community make it worth running! I loved everything about it; the hills, waterfalls, people and more. I’m so happy I ran strong. I would highly recommend this event to others. I might have to return for the half marathon (or who knows maybe the 50km)!

Overall I rate this run 9.5/10.

Melbourne Half Marathon 2016

Melbourne Half Marathon 

Sunday 16^th October 2016

http://melbournemarathon.com.au/Events/Half-Marathon

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Click here to view the course map.

Start Batman Avenue, head south along St Kilda Road, then right into Lakeside Drive and do an anticlockwise lap of Albert Park Lake. At the Carousel carpark, runners proceed behind and around Pits Building before U-turning. LEFT back onto Fitzroy St. A few more turns until reaching Linlithgow Ave, right onto St Kilda Road. Turn right at Princes Walk, veer right onto the William Barak Bridge. Make a hairpin left turn onto Jolimont St, left onto Brunton Avenue before a final left into MCG and do the MCG loop to finish.

The event starts at 8am. There are drink/aid stations every few kilometres. Every participant receives a medal and all results are recorded by an electronic chip on the back of the race bib.

Pre-race - 

Melbourne half marathon is part of the Melbourne Marathon running festival. Last year I supported friends on their marathon journey (I wasn’t back running from hip surgery). The year before, I ran the marathon (still stands as my PB). This year I decided to enter the half marathon, more as a social event. I organised to stay in the city with two Running Mums Australia (RMA) friends from NSW – Jenny and Jody. And I was looking forward to having some fun! My other motivation was for a specific fundraising event!

Running is my way of helping friends and fellow runners, and contributing to society. In 2014, I ran Canberra Marathon for Epilepsy Foundation and I ran Melbourne Marathon for Very Special Kids (for Isa and I used to volunteer for them). In 2015, I ran Canberra HM for Make a Wish (Abbey) and Two Oceans for Mothers 2 Mothers (South African organisation). I’ve run for Vision Australia (I used to volunteer for them), Satellite Foundation, Australian Spinal Research Foundation, Mitochrondrial disease, Cancer and more. I’m a proud Wings for Life ambassador (Spinal Cord Research). In 2016, I ran Melbourne HM for Antonella and her daughter Indi (see below).

Antonella Marinucci is a friend and running client of mine. Nearly 10 years ago, Antonella had twin girls born at 26-weeks. Due to complications, Indiana developed a cyst (cystic leaukamalacia) on her brain that affects her motor skills. Doctors diagnosed her with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Indi needs surgery however they will not operate until she has the correct wheelchair to undergo recovery (which cost about $15,000). Every run I participate in from now until the end of the year, is for Antonella, Indiana and her family… #run4indi

Back to pre-race…

In the weeks leading up to race day, I trained on hilly trails. My focus race was Marysville (3-weeks after Melbourne). I scheduled a recovery week for Melbourne, which gave me a break from hills! I didn’t want to race Melbourne half marathon because it takes time to fully recover from a hard and fast 21km. However I wasn’t sure how to tackle it… Do I run tempo; 8/10 Rate of Perceived Exertion? Do I pace someone else? Do I aim to negative split? Do I run without my watch? I couldn’t decide. The night before, I was talking to Jenny and Jody about it (in amongst telling some hilarious jokes). Jenny was recovering from an injury and planned on pacing someone. Jody was going for a sub 1:40 (PB). I kept playing around with figures in my head. The weather forecast was a factor too; we were expecting strong head winds and possible rain. I decided I’d run 8/10 RPE and aim for a negative split (maybe).

The evening before the race, we met with another RMA (Kate) and had a quiet dinner. We were back in our room around 8:30pm and organised our gear for the morning. I was running in my new Lululemon shorts and RMA top (also compressions, Garmin, iPod, headband and Brooks Glycerin). I was taped from hip to toe on my left leg… typical left leg weakness resulted in some minor ITB issues. And I carried two gels. We were relaxed and happy (that’s when the jokes started). We had a fun night, managed to get some quality sleep and wake with plenty of time to walk to the race precinct.

Race day -

After we finished getting ready, we walked a few blocks from the hotel to the race area. The wind was blowing a gale as soon as we stepped outside. It didn’t bother me much because I wasn’t gunning for a PB (but I hoped it wouldn’t affect Jody). We dropped our bags at the MCG (endured a strict security check) and found the nearest toilets. The wind was cool but OK. I stopped and said hello to a few familiar faces (and a few unfamiliar ones too who gravitated towards our RMA singlets).

Once the earlier races begun, we made our way into the start area and I encouraged Jody to head up front. Melbourne half marathon has thousands of participants and the first few kilometres are very congested.

From the website… Number of competitors

More than 11,000 runners took part in Melbourne’s half marathon event last year and close to 10,000 runners entered the 10km event, swelling overall race entries to just over 34,000.

The countdown started and we began running with thousands of other runners. As usual, I went out quicker than planned. Seriously, why do I bother saying my goal is a negative split? Although I’m not competitive with other runners, I’m super competitive with my previous race times. I never negative split!

I watched Jody weave in and around other people and I stayed on her heels. I was quite happy to let her go, once we were in the clear. After the first kilometre, I noticed Jenny was on my heels. Jenny couldn’t find the person she was pacing, so she ran her own race instead. After a couple of kilometres, the road widened and I could sit back a little. I lost sight of Jody, however Jenny and I were practically running together. Jenny was listening her to iPod (mine was in my pocket but I chose not to use it). My first 5km was 23:49 (4:46 per km), which was 8/10 RPE. I was happy with everything (except mild asthma from the winds). We continued running along St. Kilda Road at a steady pace, and turned right into Albert Park. Immediately the winds picked up and I allowed my pace to decrease slightly. There were bugs and insects everywhere, and I inadvertently swallowed a few!

Despite the weather, supporters still lined the streets and cheered everyone on. Melbourne has a great atmosphere and allows spectators to see runners more than once along the course.

I continued running fairly comfortably and took a gel around 10km. My split was 48:45 (4:49 per km). Now… if there was no wind, I could probably say it was still 8/10 RPE but truthfully it probably tipped over the edge a little (maybe 8.5/10). Jenny was a little behind me and just as I was thinking about her, I saw Jody run onto the course from the left hand side. Jody should’ve been ahead of me…

Poor Jody was suffering from digestive issues and unfortunately it wasn’t the first time. Many of us know the pain of stomach troubles, either before or during a race. There are many theories about this… I blame nerves.

Jody is a great runner and an awesome person. My heart sank for her as her PB goal slipped away. I reassured her that everything would be OK. Run when you can, walk if you have to and crawl if you must… but just keep going. Jody was dehydrated and her legs were cramping. Her body was telling her to stop but we were going to cross that finish line… no doubt! We walked at random intervals and through drink stations. Jody apologised and told me to keep running. But the thought never crossed my mind. For the sake of a few minutes (and that's all it would've been), I would much rather help out my friend. Our 18km time was 1:29:43 (5:07 per km)… my pace had decreased but my focus remained the same… get Jody to the finish line. I liked the fact I could rehydrated and catch my breath. I wasn't complaining about slowing down a little ;-)

The last 3km were physically tough for Jody. I managed to take it all in; scenery, buildings, weather, runners, spectators, ambience… I was relaxed and thankful. We continued along, under the bridge, around more corners, up and over the walkway and along the outside of the MCG. Entering the MCG never gets old. I love it! I can only imagine how amazing it must feel to compete in a big arena. The buzz is electric! It fuels the last stage of the race and pushes you over the line. Jody and I crossed the line in 1:47 (not a bad effort considering the challenges she faced). I was happy we made it (and thankful for running half of the race with Jenny and the other half with Jody)! Jenny finished only a minute after us.

Post race -

After we wrangled our way through the crowds, collected our belongings and freshened up, I met with some friends. I waited for a few friends and clients to come in…. some achieved their goals and some missed out (the harsh reality of distance running is anything can happen on the day). Jenny and Jody had already walked back to the hotel. I ran back as a cool down. We chatted a little more before we headed off. It was a fun weekend catching up with Jenny and Jody. I can’t wait for the next one!

Lessons -

1. Not really a lesson but a reality check… I need to be honest about the possibility of a negative split and not go out too fast!

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

Melbourne marathon running festival is my home! The course is flat with some twists and turns. The weather is usually OK but Melbourne is notorious for four-seasons-in-one-day. Be prepared for anything. Race organisers, volunteers and supporters were fabulous. The atmosphere was great and finishing in the MGC is second to none. I will run there again.

I score this run 9/10.

Surfcoast Hell Run 2016

Hell Run Lorne

http://www.trailsplus.com.au/hellrun/

Saturday 24th September 2016

10km, 21km, 42km, 63km (with relay option)

Surf Coast Hell Run is the newest mountain trail run on the Trailsplus calendar. Aptly named for the burning sensation your quad muscles will experience during the 1st, 2nd or 3rd descent depending on your chosen event. The course is set in the majestic mountains at the back of the Seaside coastal town of Lorne along the Great Ocean Road. It offers incredibly beautiful scenic mountain trails with challenging ascents for the first half on the easy to navigate teardrop shape course. Then the fun and fire begin as the speed increases and the breaking effects of the quad muscles start to glow red hot. Of course you could take the easy option and cruise on down but why not attack the long downhill section having endured the initial half of climbing to get there. The race will consist of a 10km, a 21km, a 42km and a 63km event. Access to the start area will be via shuttle bus as parking will be managed away from the race start finish location.

Pre-race - 

As mentioned in previous posts, I really enjoy Trailsplus events especially You Yangs. The events are usually small, friendly and interesting. On a whim, I decided to enter The Hell Run and asked two friends – Chris and Bec – to join me for the team option. I was interested in Surfcoast Hell Run for a few reasons; I needed work on hills, I love Lorne and it was something different.

The week before the event, the Great Ocean Rd was affected by wild weather and landslides. Trailsplus Race Director (RD) – Brett – emailed updates on road closures and potential threats to the event. Two days before race day, we received notification the run would go ahead. Phew! I had trained consistently on local hills for a month and I was keen to race! I avoided hills for a long time because of hip issues but after the last few weeks, I could feel my legs were stronger. And I liked the challenge!

The day before the event, I drove to Lorne (with Bec) and we arrived at the Mantra with plenty of time to source a good dinner location. We walked along the main strip of Lorne and I silently reminisced about previous trips to Lorne.

One in particular… years ago, my dad was on a cancer retreat at The Cumberland, Lorne. It was on my mind because it was only three days before the anniversary of his death (which also marked exactly half of my life without him). I was a little emotional (and hormonal) but OK.

Eventually, Bec and I arrived at Lorne pub and decided to stay for dinner. The view was beautiful. As we were waiting for Chris (and his wife), we realised the Trailsplus crew were there for dinner too. We joined the group for a meal and pre-race chatter. After dinner, we strolled back to the hotel and organised ourselves for the early morning departure. I chose long tights, Two Bays singlet, long-sleeve top, waterproof jacket, beanie, gloves and Injinji socks. I wore my Kathmandu vest, which I filled with Nuun electrolytes and I also packed 3 gels. I ran in my Brooks Glycerin, despite being advised to wear trail runners. I trusted my Glycerin. I converted from Asics Nimbus to Brooks Glycerin after The Tan. Glycerin made all the difference to my left leg niggles.  

Bec and I talked, listened to music and I ate way too many brownies. Note to self: Bec is an awesome team member and supplies tasty treats! We set an alarm for 5am and went to sleep.

Race day -

In the morning, I woke a few minutes before the alarm (typical on race day), dressed and had a cup of tea. We grabbed our packs, bags with fresh clothes and headed to the bus pick up point. The bus trip was relatively short. We arrived at Sheoaks Picnic Ground with plenty of time to register and listen to the race briefing. I had read the notes… but having never been to Sheaoks Picnic Ground before, most of the instructions went straight through to the keeper. Brett gave his race briefing (and before he finished), I dashed to the toilet one last time (my digestion wasn't great due to PMS). We had decided on our order; 1^st runner – Me, 2^nd runner – Bec and 3^rd runner – Chris. I was cold and quite happy to run first.

The run started in an open area, went around the back of the toilet block and out onto a fire trail. I deliberately started slow, expecting a tough first half of the race. It didn’t take long to warm up and I ditched my long sleeve top. Lorne suffered a downpour of rain in the week prior but surprisingly the ground wasn’t too boggy. The rain softened the ground and although it was slightly slippery in sections, it was much better than expected.

The first three or four kilometres were easier than anticipated and my splits were 7:10, 6:20, 5:38 and 5:59min/km pace. There were some ups and downs. The surroundings were beautiful; green and bright. The trail was covered in debris and random branches sticking out of the ground. There were some unstable rocks but overall it was OK. Around the 5-6km mark… the uphill sections became steeper! As the elevation increased (127-metre gain) my pace decreased (9:04min/km). The next few kilometres were 8:16, 8:58… I lost satellites for about 600 metres… 5:46, 7:11 and 6:16min/km pace. During the uphill, I managed to overtake a few runners… (I should say that they were 63km runners). Even so, I was feeling fairly comfortable.

At the top of the hill, I saw George manning the aid station. He helped me by grabbing a gel from the back of my hydration vest and told me to keep running to the left, out and back, and not to go to the tower. I walked a little and inhaled my gel. I resumed running, feeling refreshed from the break. I ran about 2km over small rolling hills until I reached a closed gate. I saw the tower to the left and an arrow on the ground. The turn-around point… (or so I thought!) I turned around and ran back towards George. I smiled at a few runners coming the other way. Reaching the downhill section, gave me a chance to appreciate the new environment. It was calm and peaceful.

Somewhere around 10km, I came across the aid station again and continued straight downhill. I was comfortably sitting on sub 5min/km pace until another runner caught up to me… A runner who I assumed would have been in front of me?! He asked me if I remembered the out and back loop and I said yes. But something wasn’t right. I asked what his GPS said and realised mine was about 2km less… I knew I lost satelittes around 7km… I wasn’t sure how much distance I was missing…

Was it 2km? Maybe?

No! No way…

Oh no! What have I done? Was there a second out and back loop that I missed? I stopped and considered my options. Or should I say… I stopped and began to panic.

What had I done? What had I missed? I was so confused. I thought there must have been a second out and back loop that I missed. I decided to turn around and make up the missing 2km by running in the opposite direction (even though I wasn’t sure I was actually missing 2km due to losing satellites earlier on…) I was stressing out. I was running much slower than necessary and lost the advantage of the downhill stretch. My pace slowed to 6min/km pace. I was overwhelmed. Here I was, in the middle of a beautiful forest, running an “easy-to-navigate” trail and I had stuffed up! How?!

I continued running in the wrong direction, passed a few runners and asked if there was a second out and back… I was trying to work out where I’d gone wrong. I think I just confused other runners (not my intention).

I lost all connection to my calm and peaceful place…

I ran about 1.5km and recognised a runner from earlier in the race (I knew I'd been ahead of him earlier in the race). I decided to turn around with him and head to the finish line. We and he reassured me that I’d made up more than enough distance and I'd definitely been ahead of him. He was a 63km runner and had two more laps to go, however I stayed with him until the end of his first lap (my one and only lap). The last few kilometres were 5:31, 4:55, 4:44, 5:23 and 5:54min/km splits. The last kilometre went onto a single-track and over a small, wooden bridge. It was really pretty, but I couldn’t take it in. As soon as I crossed the finish, I tagged Bec and told Brett (RD) that I had stuffed up somehow. But how?!

We talked it through and realised I turned around too early. The arrow at the gate was telling me to go around the gate and to the right (away from the tower). The turn around marker was approximately another kilometre along the path. Which would be explain why I was 2km short on my Garmin. As it turned out, I ran an extra 600 metres. But I was still so frustrated and disappointed. I was running strong uphill and looking forward to the downhill. I crossed the finish line feeling like I’d barely run (because I held back so much in the second half).

After Bec began running, I saw Chris and immediately apologised. I get lost and distracted easily but I had a responsibility to my team members to pay attention. And I knew that our team should be disqualified for not following the course correctly (there was nothing I could do. I couldn’t fix my mistake).

I found my bag and changed into clean clothes. I replenished some fluids and chatted to a few runners. I discovered I wasn’t the only one who turned around at the gate, but I was still feeling pretty flat (and anti-social). I offered to take some photos for Trailsplus, which was a welcome distraction. The weather was perfect, the surroundings were beautiful and there were some amazing runners on course (running up to 63km). I really enjoyed capturing their inspiring moments on camera.

About four hours later, our team finished. Bec and Chris both ran a great race (Chris smashed the course by finishing in 1:50). I believe we finished about fifty minutes ahead of the second team but I didn’t feel right about it. And I didn’t want anyone thinking I deliberately took a shortcut. I asked Brett to give the trophy to the other team. Bec and Chris were really supportive and forgiving.

Post race -

After presentations, we rode the bus back to the heart of Lorne. We ate lunch at an awesome little burger joint (best mushroom burger ever)! After lunch my digestion really started playing up and I had bad pains. Luckily, Bec offered to drive us home in my car.

Overall I enjoyed the course, even with the hills and my navigational malfunction. I’m grateful for my awesome team mates – Chris and Bec. Brett (RD) was supportive and reminded me it was all about having fun (I needed the reminder)! The weather was perfect and surroundings were beautiful.

It sounds melodramatic but I took awhile to get over this event. The disappointment of turning around early was mixed with the emotion of the anniversary of my dad (and my hormones making me feel awful both physically and emotionally). I knew I was being irrational. But there is a valuable lesson to learn from it all.

Lessons -

1. Listen to the race briefing, read the instructions and pay attention on the day!

2. Find my calm and peaceful place, and stay there! Even if something goes wrong, it will be OK. Getting lost is not the end of the world!

3. See no.1 and 2.

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

Clearly, I have a score to settle… Yes there will be a next time and I’m going to follow directions and fly downhill!

Score: 9/10