Princess Park 50km 2017

Princess Park 50km, Sunday 2^nd April, 2017

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

Welcome and thank you for supporting the 2nd running of the Princes Park Running Festival, this year consisting of 24hr – 12hr – 6hr events on Saturday and 2.5km, 5km, 10km, 1/2Marathon, Marathon, 50km and 100km Events on Sunday. I hope you are all looking forward to the great day as you complete your laps around the fast flat course. As always events that Trailsplus conduct support young people living with cancer. This is by donations paid to Canteen at the completion of each race. We are excited to have CanTeen onsite with us for this race to help support the runners.

The Course

The Princes Park loop will be run on the gravel trail. The 2.5km loop will be used. All Sunday events will be run in a anticlockwise direction.

Sunday - Distance Events

		100k	50k	42k	21k	10k	5k	2.5k
Registration		5:00	6:00	7:00	8:00	9:00	10:00	10:30
Briefing		5:45	6:45	7:45	8:45	9:45	10:45	11:15
Start		6:00	7:00	8:00	9:00	10:00	11:00	11:30

Cut-off time for all events is 6:00pm.

Pre-race –

There’s not much to tell this time (for a change)… Princess Park 50km wasn’t on my list. However, two weeks prior I ran Brimbank 50km and struggled mentally. It was a hot and hilly run, and I became lost and confused in my own thoughts. After much deliberation, I finally decided to run Princess Park 50km as a confidence booster (before GOR 60km in May). I was nervous and concerned about my lack of recovery time. But I believed if I treated it as a training run (didn’t get white-line fever) and listened to my body, then I could recover properly afterwards. I knew 2.5km x20 laps would provide an opportunity for mental training! I devised a plan; 2 laps easy, 1 lap moderate, 1 lap easy, 1 lap moderate (repeat x4). The course is completely flat so I decided against walk breaks (but if I happened to walk a little on the easy laps that was OK… to get my breath or have some food/drink).

The days leading up to Princess Park, everything fell into place. The weather was cool and Daylight Saving ended the night before (giving an additional hour of sleep)! My body was relatively pain free (left achilles still nagging a bit). I bought a new audiobook, Pam Reed; http://www.pamreedultra.com. And I set a goal; sub 5hours (my goal I missed at Brimbank).

Race day –

I woke at 4:45am and considered not going (normal reaction at 4:45am)! Plus nobody knew I was running so there were no expectations. I told Brad (of course), and I asked a friend for advice (Chris). I mentioned it on social media but I was non-committal. My hesitation lasted for about 5 minutes until I rolled out of bed and began getting ready. Even though the temperature was cooler, I still dressed in shorts. I wore calf-compressions, singlet, long-sleeve top and I took gloves. I wore a new pair of Brooks Glycerin. The day before, my stomach was playing up. I guessed nerves were to blame again. I packed Gastro-stop (just in case). I also packed 4 gels, water, electrolytes, vegemite sandwich and popcorn. I used my Flipbelt to carry gels but I presumed I could store other supplies at the aid station (one of the benefits of a loop-course). I put my iPod (with my new audiobook) in my pocket.

I arrived at Princess Park around 6:15am, although it was still dark so I took awhile to locate the start area. There was ample street parking. I quickly popped some Gastro-stop, inhaled Ventolin and made my way to registration. Brett said I could use one of the tables for personal supplies so I put my electrolytes and sandwich there. The race briefing was short (how much can you say when you’re running 2.5km loops) and there was a small gathering (although I noticed several females running the 50km distance). This time, I was not focused on placing. I was focused on my own, personal goal. We walked to the start line and as the clock struck 7am, we began running.

My achilles took a couple of laps to settle (as it does) but overall I was comfortable. The second kilometre was quicker than I wanted but I corrected my pace as soon as I realised. My stomach was churning a little but I expected it would stop. I pushed through. I paused for a sip of electrolytes every so often. I chatted to other runners like Mak (who ran nearly 200km in 24-hours) and Elise (who ran 100km)! Both incredible!

The first 5-laps or 12.5km took about 1hour 5min. It unfolded according to plan with the first 5km (easy), next 2.5km (moderate), following 2.5km (easy) and last 2.5km (moderate). I took in my first gel and water, at the beginning of the second 5-laps. The second 5-laps equaled 25km and took me to 2hours 16min.

*Strava doesn’t show this correctly but 14-15km cost me nearly 8min and 15-16km took 7min. I lost about 6min with an unplanned loo stop; then I rummaged through my bags to find car keys, ran to the car and took more Gastro-stop! Apologies for sharing but it was a significant point in my run. I could tell my digestion was not good and I tried to ignore it. Eventually I knew I had to take something for my stomach to settle. I also knew I would lose time, which could’ve easily messed with my head. But I took it all in my stride though. When I ran to my bags, I saw a fellow runner (Ricci) and we had a quick chat. I remained calm as I searched for my car keys. Ricci offered to help but I was OK. The only potential issue was my reaction to a relatively minor issue (and one that many runners face). I kept my head on straight and returned to the course. I pushed a little more on the next moderate lap but backed off on the easy lap to recover properly.

My reason for slowing down towards 25km was to save energy. It was a conscious decision because I tend to feel tired when I run further than 30km. Why? I don’t know. I should explore that! The obvious answer is; after 90min my glucose stores have depleted etc. I probably don’t eat enough on course. Also, I have a mental barrier… 30km or 3hours and I feel tired… perhaps something I should investigate more.

The third cycle totaled 37km and 3hours 26min (surprisingly I maintained my splits from the previous 5 laps). My pace definitely decreased however my digestive issues resolved. There were a few short pauses for food/drink (second gel) but no toilet breaks! Thank God! I allowed a couple of very short walk breaks. I talked with other runners and stretched out my legs. Speaking of my legs… they were tired. My left side begins to weaken anywhere from 20-25km onwards (feels like my glute has been corked). I become painfully aware that my left side is weak. I have committed to strength work for the last few months (I was slack when my training runs peaked for Two Bays) but my motor-control is terrible on one side of my body… another aspect to explore more.

As my mental strength waivered I decide to listen to my new audiobook. It was awesome! If you need inspiration, check out Pam Reed; http://www.pamreedultra.com. The only annoying part was when my iPod began glitching! I turned it off/on and carried it to limit movement. Eventually I turned it off completely. When I switched it back (30min later) it worked perfectly.

I reached 42.2km (3hours 58min), which was perfect. My goal was sub 4hour. I was fatigued but happy. The loop-course and my strategy to focus on 5-laps was working well for me. I barely looked at my watch for distance (but attempted to keep an eye on it for easy-and-moderate pace). My pace was more about effort than speed. Plus every time I walked my left glute (low back/hip) hurt significantly. I was better maintaining a slow run pace. During the final 5-laps, my focus was more about maintaining pace. At this stage, I only consumed 2 gels, a few lollies, electrolytes and water. During a so-called-easy-phase, I asked for a cup of coke and grabbed a quarter of a vegemite sandwich.

Anything less than a marathon, I feel relatively confident with fuelling. I have 2-3 gels, a few lollies, potato chips, electrolytes and water. Frequently I feel queasy (but I can handle it). Anything greater than a marathon, I become confused. The further I go, the less I eat! I have to force myself to take a bite and I feel water-logged (even though I might be obviously dehydrated). Maybe this is another research point for me.

During the last hour, I began to feel pins and needles around my left ankle. I worried that my achilles and jammed-up ankle was getting worse (but later I discovered my compressions rolled and pinched part of my lower leg. Two days later and my leg is badly bruised).

The last two laps were reasonable; I maintained sub 6min pace and finished strong in 4hours 46min (unofficial).

Post-race –

After I crossed the line, I received my medal from the volunteers. I said thank you to the photographer who helped keep me going (knowing that he was there every lap waiting to take a picture). I was really happy with my time and most importantly, my attitude. Running 50km is never easy (and I was tired about halfway through) but I held onto my mental strength.  

The first three female runners ran really strong; I finished 4^th. I had no intentions of chasing anyone down for a podium spot. I have no regrets how I ran this event. I ran it exactly how I intended (except for the loo break). Although I have a few points to address, I have gained some confidence moving forwards. I really hope I can make GOR 60km cut-off time!

Later that day and the following day, I had pain in my left glute (back/hip). Brad adjusted me (chiro), which helped and I took his advice to take it easy. Rest and recovery is vital!

Lessons – 

1. Keep working on mobility, motor control and strength! Never stop!

2. Research why I fade after 30km or 3hours (non-food related)

3. Research and test out fuelling options

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

Trailsplus offered an organised, friendly and modest event. Although I love Trailsplus event, I doubt that I will run Princess Park 50km again. Maybe I will enter an hour challenge instead… what do you think? The 12-hour event? Time will tell!

Brimbank Park 50km 2017

Trailsplus Brimbank Park Urban Trail Run

Brimbank 50km – March 19^th 2017

Brimbank 50km – March 19^th 2017

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

Welcome and thank you for supporting the 4th running of the Brimbank Park Running Festival. Our goal at trailsplus is to provide a safe, friendly encouraging opportunity for people to connect with trail running and enjoy the outdoors and our local parks, trails and mountains. Participants have several options to choose something that suits their level of fitness. Ranging from 2km, 5km 10km 21.1km, 42.2km or 50km Event. Since 2007 Brett and trailsplus events have been supporting Canteen, the organisation for young people living with Cancer. We have raised well over $40,000 for charities since 2007. The 50km course Starts below the café and consists of an 8km loop followed by the 21km course twice. It consists of bitumen, dirt trail, some stairs and hills. It is not technical. The course loops back on itself however the scenery is varied (for more detailed notes, see the trailsplus website).

Why do I like Trailsplus events –

I have participated in a few Trailsplus events before including You Yangs, The Tan, Surfcoast Hellrun and Marysville (Brett Saxon is the RD). I always love their events, regardless of my result. The events are smaller than some others, volunteers are helpful and friendly, and the vibe is inclusive and encouraging. And all events raise money for Canteen. They encompass everything I love about running; enjoyment, no pressure, camaraderie and running for a greater cause. Brett has a loyal following of volunteers and I love that he knows almost all participants by name.

Pre-race –

So far 2017 has been big and busy! I ran Two Bays 56km in January and Wangaratta marathon in February. With GOR 60km scheduled for May, I had a gap to fill. And a need to run longer than a marathon (training run) in preparation for GOR. My sister-in-law (Carmen) and I were comparing race calendars and agreed we both needed 50km sometime before May. Carmen (being crazier than me… yes that is possible) had committed to the mammoth task of Ultraman in May… http://ultramanoz.com.au

We looked at a few interstate options as Carmen lives on the Sunshine Coast but eventually settled on Brimbank. Carmen could fly to Melbourne (visit family, friends and her partner) and run 50km with me! And my hubby (Brad… also Carmen’s brother) signed up for the half marathon. I was really excited! About a week before the big race, we got hit (by a sledgehammer) with a nasty gastro bug. I was very sick (won’t go into details)! I was concerned about having enough time to recover but there was nothing I could do. I drank loads of electrolytes, tried to eat well (but I struggled to eat protein) and rested as often as possible (when you have two kids to manage). By the time race day came around, I felt good. Good enough to run 50km? Time would tell…

The day before, Carmen arrived and we discussed our goals and strategies. We both said we’d be happy with less than 5 hours. At Wangaratta marathon, my average pace was 5:12min per km… I knew there were a few hills at Brimbank therefore I estimated I could maintain 5:40-5:45min per km (4hrs 45min). That was my A-goal and anything less than 5 hours was my B-goal. I expected Carmen would run a little quicker than me but the prospect of standing on the podium next to her was… so exciting! However, I like to keep my feet on the ground and head out of the clouds. Once we finished discussing our predictions, I organised my gear including shorts, singlet, calf compressions (for nagging peroneals/achilles pain), Injinji socks and Brooks Glycerin. I decided to wear my Nathan 4-bottle belt because the forecast was 32-degrees… I repeat… we would be running 50km in 32-degree heat (and still no commonsense prevailed). I also packed 4 gels and my iPod.

Race day –

Our alarm sounded at 5:15am. I had a reasonable sleep and crawled out of bed with slightly more motivation than usual. I ate my granola, asked Brad to tape my calf/achilles and got dressed. Brad, Carmen and I were on the road by 6am. About an hour later (and a couple of pit-stops), we arrived at Brimbank Park and the Brownstone Café. The park was widespread with rolling hills and panoramic views. We made our way inside to collect our bibs. There were about 20 people in the 50km distance (and only 4 females including Carmen and my friend Serena). The vision of standing on the podium with my awesome sister-in-law and friend materialised in my mind again… But nerves kicked in. Someone told me the fourth female competitor had run Comrades (my dream ultra)http://www.comrades.com which brought me back down to earth. Back to being the underdog, just the way I like it.

Time flew as we chatted to familiar faces and prepared ourselves for the task ahead. The race briefing worried me a little; I was concerned I would get lost (wouldn’t be the first time). The course consisted of an 8km loop (that returned to the start area), and two 21km loops. There was one section of the course we ran through four times and each time was different; first time we went straight, second time we turned left, third time straight, fourth time left…  I vowed to concentrate and ask marshals for confirmation at every turn. Soon after, the countdown started and we were off!

I started slowly (deliberately) and could see Carmen and Serena ahead of me. I wasn’t tempted to catch up. My plan was to sit between 5:20-5:30min pace and maintain. That plan lasted for about 5min until I reached the first hill! Obviously I hadn’t looked at the course and I underestimated the hills. I don’t mind some hills but combined with the heat, I started calculating a new A-goal of 5 hours. The aim of this event was a 50km training run (not a race). The first few splits were; 5:16, 5:51 (50m elevation), 5:26, 5:57 (40m elevation) and 5:09min per km. The ups were short and sharp, followed by short and sharp downs. I plodded uphill comfortably and overtook other runners. Serena walked the hills but would catch me on the flats and downhill. I came through the start/finish area (after 8km) and felt relaxed and comfortable. I was enjoying the undulations, terrain and scenery. The course had bitumen, dirt trails and stairs. And I love running in new places. I continued running along the first 21km loop and was greeted by more hills. I ran, plodded and Cliffy-shuffled to the top. Once on flat ground, I had a drink. The weather was warm but OK. I began sipping from my water bottles early on. I filled two bottles with water and two bottles with electrolytes.

After an hour (11km), I had my first gel. I was happy with my pace (5:30min). I knew Brad (some friends and runners I coach) were about to start the 21km. I sent everyone good running vibes in my mind. At the 15km mark, I plodded uphill again. I vaguely remember stopping at an aid station and refilling my water bottles. I decided to use hydralyte every time. I continued running and took energy from seeing fellow runners on the out and back sections. But when I clocked over 90min (17-18km), something changed. Suddenly, I was tired. It was 9:30am and already felt warmer. I don’t mind heat and often tell runners I coach they need to learn to love the heat… sunshine, vitamin D, people out and about, scenery… love it! But my mind started playing tricks on me… maybe I’m not recovered from gastro properly, maybe the heat will be too much for this long… maybe… what if?

After two hours (22km), I was hot and tired. My pace decreased slightly (5:35min). My head was confused; sometimes I felt OK and other times I felt like stopping completely. I know it sounds silly but I felt lazy. My legs were protesting for no particular reason. I had no pain (except for a slight achilles niggle). I had no excuse. At the halfway mark (24-25km), I made a conscious decision to walk. There was no reason except I didn’t feel like running anymore. I had no drive… no grit! What was going on? Again, my mind started playing tricks on me… I’m not recovered from gastro, I should’ve downgraded to 21km. Maybe I’m hormonal?  I drank more hydralyte and stopped for oranges at an aid station (I was hoping for some brain power).

After three hours (31-32km), my speed (or lack of) continued on a downward trajectory (5:40min pace). I walked up another hill and bumped into Brad. I stopped to untangle my headphones. He offered me his headphones because he only had 2km to go, but I refused (I wanted to stand there and untangle them… I didn’t want to run). Brad said he felt cooked (he doesn’t like running in the heat). He was 20min slower than predicted. I don’t think we offered each other much comfort, we just complained about being hot and bothered. Even though my self-talk was not good, I didn’t realise what I was doing. Part of me believed it was too hot to run after recovering from gastro, and part of me didn’t care. I couldn’t appreciate how much my mental state was ruling my decision to walk. Sure it was hot and yes I had been unwell. But I could’ve continued running. My heart rate was not high, nothing hurt, I wasn’t injured… It was my headspace preventing me from pushing through. And honestly… that is not typical for me!

I listened to some music on my iPod. I tried to appreciate my surroundings and the gift of running. I stopped at aid stations and chatted to volunteers. They were great; offering to refill water bottles and empathising with the heat. It helped a little knowing other runners were struggling physically and mentally with the heat too. Apparently, some runners withdrew and some were rescued on course. The temperature reached 34-degrees and there was nowhere to hide. Brimbank Park is open and vast, and there is no shade. I continued drinking copious amounts of hydralyte until I started to feel sick. At some point I took a second gel (I only had 2 gels in total).

From 30km onwards, I ran/walked every kilometre. There are some events you expect to walk sections i.e. Two Bays or Marysville. I have no issue with walking on a technical trail. Two Oceans, which is a road event, I planned to walk the first 200m of every kilometre on the uphill section. Although Brimbank has some hills (600m elevation), I did not plan walking. I find it tough once I break my running rhythm; walking through an aid station or uphill occasionally is OK but this was more than that. I reached my marathon point (42.2km), around 4hrs 20min… (6:10min pace). About 45-46km, there was a slow steady climb, which I walked the whole way (9:55min pace). I chatted to a fellow runner about the heat and other events. It was a welcome distraction. I began plodding again around 47km and could feel sharp pain on my right side in my abdomen. It felt like a stitch (who gets a stitch at 47km? I thought maybe my kidneys were struggling…) I backed off to walking pace until I reached the final aid station. I refilled bottles and ate more oranges. Then I noticed another female runner approaching the aid station. I had passed marathon runners on course but she looked like… no way! This female runner was the fourth 50km runner. And there was no way she was overtaking me with 2km to go!

After 5 hours (48km), I ran my first full kilometre in 5:09min! Knowing that I might lose my third place on the podium was enough motivation to run again. I had to run and not look back! I ran as fast as my body would allow, for the last 2km. I finally finished in 5hrs 12min (6:14min pace). As soon as I crossed the line, I sat down under some shade. I felt sick and overheated from running the last section. I was done. Carmen finished 1^st place in 4:49, followed by Serena and I snuck in 3^rdplace in 5:12. Fourth finished 1min behind me! I was really proud and happy.

Post-race –

After I stopped feeling like I was going to spontaneously combust (from overheating), I felt fine. I was dehydrated despite my best efforts to drink hydralyte regularly and I was tired. We stayed for presentations and basked in our moment of glory. For the next two days, I was really tired. But again nothing hurt! I began reflecting on the race and my mental space. I’m very grateful I finished third, however I am disappointed with my lack of determination. As mentioned, I didn’t realise how much my self-talk affected my race. My attitude negatively affected my experience before any physical limitations kicked in. I can’t believe I listened to my own negative self-talk and allowed it to continue. The other interesting factor was my lack of nutrition. I had 2 gels over 5 hours (some oranges and stacks of hydralyte). Maybe my brain just turned to mush because I didn't fuel properly? 

Lessons - 

1. Never underestimate the power of the mind

2. Never assume you are immune to negative self-talk

3. Never give up!

4. Consider the importance of nutrition during long events?

*Everyone has a bad day, run or race. I have experienced many down days and difficult runs. But I am relentless. My self-talk is positive, even when I don’t believe it. I tell myself I have mental strength, I can do this, I’m stronger than I think and faster than I realise… and all the other mantras and clichés out there. I don’t want to make excuses for this run. I guess nobody is immune to doubt creeping in. Next time, I will draw on my strengths and I will use my powers for good and not evil!

Race feedback and will there be a next time - 

The event was… HOT! Nobody can control the weather so for the sake of this report, I will ignore it. I enjoyed the course; I liked the 8km loop followed by two 21km loops. I had to concentrate to ensure I didn’t get lost but that made it more interesting. I liked running through the start/finish area, and out/back sections because there was encouragement by fellow runners and spectators. The terrain was varied and hills were challenging (but not unrunnable). The RD and vollies were friendly and helpful. I’m not sure how I feel about this next statement but… I think I need to run it again to prove to myself I can do better! See you in 2018 :)

Wangaratta Marathon 2017

Wangaratta Marathon – February 26^th 2017

The Wangaratta Marathon and Fun Runs is bought to you by Justin and Sharon Scholz of Wangaratta Fitness Fun Addicts. The event motto says it all - "More people moving more often". Entry prices for this event are much less than their counterparts and we take pride in that. We aren’t looking for big profits, but we are unashamedly looking to draw people to Wangaratta to enjoy the beautiful path networks and environmental surrounds of our thriving rural city. We secretly hope that we can encourage people to engage more in physical happiness and become more active than they were before joining our event.

General information

Event start times, presentation times, course descriptions, course maps, elevations profiles, photo and video are available on each specific “Event” pages above.

COURSE ACCURACY

All courses have been measured using the AIMS / IAAF process but are uncertified.

COURSE TIMING

A timing chip will be attached to entrant race bibs. All tags will become active when each event starts and will be ‘read” by a decoder as entrants cross a start mat and later, a finish mat. The start line and the finish line is in the same place for all events. Results will be compiled from “gun” times only.

AID STATIONS

Aid stations will be set-up on course at regular intervals. Refer to the individual event pages for location details. There will be a minimum of one aid station for 2km and 5km entrants and a minimum of two aid stations for 10km entrants. These aid stations will include energy sports drink and water (water only for 2km event). Additional Marathon and Half Marathon aid stations will be established at distances between 2.0 and 3.0km apart (max is 3.2km). These aid stations will include energy sports drink, water and lollies (ie snakes or jelly beans or similar).

POST EVENT

Refreshments will be provided to all entrants post race. These will include jam sandwiches, fruit, water and cordial. Event bib must be worn to access the refreshments area. Other food and drinks will also be available for purchase for non-entrants or entrants who prefer something different. There will also be a coffee van (fee), icecream van (fee) and canteen (fee).

Course description

~ Start at the rear of Norm Minns / Showground complex near the Magpies Football Clubrooms / Kennel and Obedience Dog Club.

~ Run out through the rear gates of the complex, across a 100m grass section and turn left onto the bitumen cycle path.

~ Follow the path North along the river until it terminates at College Street.

~ Cross College Street and Park Lane and continue on the cycling path on the north side of College Street until then turning right at Phillipson Street.

~ Stay on the right hand side of Phillipson Street, continue to the end of the road and turn left into Cambridge Drive.

~ Stay on the right side of Cambridge Drive and continue until turning right into Riverside Estate.

~ At the end of Riverside, turn left onto the sealed fitness path and follow as marked to Edwards Street / Yarrawonga Road.

~ Turn right on the sealed path and run to and across the road bridge near the golf course.

~ Continue along the path beside the golf club until directed to turn around.

~ Run back to the bridge, but rather than cross it, take the left fork and head down and under the bridge and onto the One Mile Creek path.

~ Follow the One Mile Creek path over a footbridge and past the back of Appin Park Primary School, turning left at the path intersection at that point.

~ Continue along and under the Phillipson Street, Rowan Street and Swan Street bridges.

~ Cross the footbridge and continue along the cycling path under the Roy Street, Railway and Tone Road bridges to arrive at Batchelors Green and public toilets.

~ Follow the path to the designated turn point just past Batchelors Green.

~ Return the same way, but after going past the Appin Park School, turn left onto the Collyndale Wetlands path for a lovely out and back.

~ When you return from that section, turn left and continue all the way back along the course to the Showgrounds (noting that after you come up from the Yarrawonga Rd bridge you do NOT do the golf club part again, but turn and immediately cross the bridge.

~ When you reach the Showgrounds, do NOT turn right onto the grass at the back of the complex, but continue along the river.

~ When you reach Evans Street, turn immediately to your right and head into the showground complex.

~ Follow the internal roadway, then run back over the start line and complete a second lap.

~ When entering the Showgrounds at the end of the second lap, deviate onto the grass when indicated and run into across the grass and over the finish line.

Pre-race –

After I recovered from Two Bays, I decided to aim for a fast and flat marathon. My right hip (which had given me grief on the hills) hadn’t been bothering me. My left hip was still significantly weaker but I had managed to reconnect with the gym and work on glute strength etc. Only minor issues were left achilles (tight from some speed sessions) and hormones (bad PMS). Generally, I went into Wangaratta marathon feeling pretty good. My A-goal was sub 3:45 and my B-goal was to beat my Run for the Young time of 3:50.

The race started early and the weather forecast was 26 degrees. I chose to run in shorts, RMA singlet (I joined the RMA team), calf compressions and Brooks Glycerin. I packed my ipod, gels and a packet of salt and vinegar chips! I have learnt from experience that anything over three hours and all I want is CHIPS! I can only stomach three gels at most. I also decided not to run with a water belt but carry a small kid-size bottle of water in my flip belt. I can’t drink from cups at aid stations (I choke on water… one of my many talents), so drinking from a nozzle is much easier! I wasn’t sure it would work and I knew I would lose time through drink stations if I stopped or walked but… this was a small, fun marathon (and I’m no-elite athlete). The day before the race I drove to Wangaratta and stayed with my friends Serena (and a few others). Serena and I have enjoyed many running weekends away (we both know how to celebrate after the race). 

Race day –

We woke early and I consumed a small bowl of porridge and cup of tea. It was still dark and the temperature was cool but not freezing. When we arrived at the race hub, I met another runner who happened to be from the Mornington Peninsula too. I also bumped into another local, Keren. We chatted and I stretched (a little). Before too long, Justin Scholz (RD) instructed marathon runners to the start line. There were approximately 130 runners in the 42km event (just over 30 females). I love small events. I know I say it all the time, but there is simply less hype.

Justin counted down and within seconds we were running. I cruised the first-kilometre in just over 5min and everything was perfect. I tend to start slower (my achilles takes time to warm up), but after a few minutes I could settle into a more natural pace. My next split was 4:37min (too fast) so I put the breaks on and maintained a 5min/km pace. To finish with 3:45, I had to maintain a 5:20 pace. I predicted I would slow down in the second-half (simply because I wasn’t used to running a marathon without stopping) so I was prepared to go out a fraction faster in the first-half. Guestimates were somewhere between 5-5:10 pace.

I stuck to my game plan and hit the 10km mark in 50min. I also decided to turn my iPod on at this stage (for some distraction). Continuing with a steady 5min/km pace, I reached 21km in 1:46. I took one gel at 60min (12km) and a second gel at two-hours (24km). I stopped a couple of times at aid stations for water or cordial.

I really enjoyed the course. The way it works means you end up running along the same path four-times (out and back twice). Some runners may not like that but I loved it… seeing fellow runners, words of encouragement flying both ways, acknowledging RMAs and high-fives. It was great to see Serena running strong in front of me. The path was easy, flat (with a few tiny down and ups under roads), some greenery and fresh country air. The volunteers were friendly and the course was flawlessly marked (not even I could get lost)!

About 26km, I suddenly felt tired. My pace decreased a bit (as predicted) but I still hovered around 5:20-5:25 pace. I roughly calculated I had been sitting on 5:10 pace or quicker therefore a few kilometres over 5:20 would even out. I wasn’t worried. Around 32km, I noticed the typical handful of runners beginning to walk. I believe it has something to do with training (or lack thereof). Often people only train to 32km so it makes sense they might fade on race day. On the flipside, I found my second-wind and ran a little quicker (5:09 pace). It only lasted a couple of kilometres, and then dropped back to 5:25-5:30 pace from 35km onwards. I reached 35km as the clocked ticked over three-hours… This seems to be a turning point for me. My stomach stops tolerating sugar, gels and sports drinks, everything repeats, my left hip switches off and I slow down. Systemically I was OK, but my left leg was tired (I had a hint of ITB pain) so I deliberately shortened my stride and took the pressure off. I decided to skip the last gel and instead I opened my salt and vinegar chips. Again, running while opening a chip packet and drinking water, takes time. I probably only lost 10 seconds but it adds up. I was happy I continued running though. The last flat-ish marathon I did was Run for the Young and I walked a stint at 30km. I definitely felt stronger this time. I didn’t have a particular mantra because I didn’t need it. However, I did remind myself to “Run my own race.” For the first 5km, I was third female and then someone overtook me. I sat in fourth place for ages and somewhere around 24-28km, a fellow RMA (Sarah) passed me (photo above looks like we're having a leisurely chat). I was in fifth place. Somewhere between 32-35km, I overtook someone (back in fourth place). I happily crossed the finish line in 4^th but secretly hoped someone was under 40 years (so I could snag an age-category place)!

The last part of the race dragged on… I ran along the path near the start/finish area, around the wire fence, dodged little kids and parents running the 2km event, and finally through the finishing shute. My time was 3:38:57! I was super happy and relatively comfortable (well… as comfortable as you can be after running 42km)! And I made it on the age-group podium with my friend Serena!

Lessons - 

1. An expensive bottle of wine is good incentive for me!

2. I chaffed badly on the top of my feet – calf compressions make my socks slip and my laces (where the knot is) causes blisters on the top of my feet. Must get those snazzy lacing-systems for my shoes!

3. The next day (and a few days afterwards) my left calf was cactus! The whole left side of my body was tight. Need to work on fascia release!

Race feedback and will there be a next time - 

The event was flawless; fast, flat course with country scenery, helpful vollies, lots of aid stations (they need chips though), perfectly marked, encouragement and support from fellow runners, less fuss and more fun, superb weather, and unique trophies and medals!

*This is the last time I’m scoring an event because I seem to rank most runs 9/10! In saying that, I score Wangaratta marathon a 9/10 and I would run it again!

Many thanks for a great event!