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/

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!