#YOLO7dayUltra - New Forest (Southampton) to Land's End

It's been 4 days since I finished this epic journey and as I still recover it's best to jot down some words whilst it is still fresh in the mind although I doubt I will ever forget each and every mile.

Last year whilst at work, I received the news from one of my best friends that he was diagnosed with Oesophaegal cancer and that they were going to operate on him. Not long afterward he had the op, however he then informed us of the worse news anyone can hear. It was terminal and continueing with the op wouldn't help. It hit home, he was at the time only 32 with a young wife and a 1 year old. Not too much difference to my self. Now he continues his fight and has passed the 12 months he was given and even has a little baby girl addition to the family. So if he is still pushing his limits it only meant that I should too.

Knowing I couldn't help him personally by curing him or find operating on him as I wasn't that talented, I decided to use the only skill I had and that was run. By running, I could raise awareness and some money so that maybe I could make a difference to others in the future. I chose a small charity as they always get over looked by the bigger ones such as Cancer Research. The charity was Ochre http://www.ochrecharity.org.uk/ which is a small Oesophaegal cancer charity.

So I sat down and thought what could I do? I thought about doing the JOGLE race, but I didn't have time with work and I also didn't want the chance of failure due to cut of times etc. So I looked at however far I could go in a day allowing me enough time for some recovery, eating etc. I always wanted to finish something at Land's End and being raised most of my life in Cornwall this was fitting for me. I worked out roughly 7 days of running and looked at a map. Phil, who this is all about moved from Cornwall where he grew up to the New Forest nr Southampton to set up his family home as he left the Army. So that was it I was basically running from Phil's new home to his old home. 14/15 months ago the event was created I was going to run from the New Forest to Land's End via Phil's childhood home on the last day.

Event 26 of 37 - #YOLO7dayUltra - New Forest (Southampton) to Land's End

We arrive at our hotel the night before the start of the event which was about 30 mins from my starting point. I couldn't get any closer due to the busy period of summer and every where cheap enough was booked out. I was accompanied by my support crew which was made up of my wife and 4 year old son and Les who will be the medic. My sports masseuse will be joining me later during the week. Also joining me is a good friend Luke Elliott, who recently won the Ham to Lyme 100k event. He has given up his time to support run the first and second day with me.

Pre Event beers with Luke

We gathered in the pub that evening, discussed the first day of runnings route and timings. I discussed what I wanted from my support crew, wife using her vehicle for the Check Point (CP) food and drink stations, and Les's truck for the kit. Having never done anything to this extent before none of us knew exactly what or how to do things. It was going to be a learning curve over the next few days. Each day was going to be an early start of 7am and I had a time of 12 hours planned to finish each day to allow for as much recovery time as possible. The earlier I can finish the better of course, but with out knowing how each day will be I didn't want to take too many chances. The aim was to run/walk/shuffle/crawl to each day's finish line if needs be!

Day 1 - New Forest (nr Fritham) to Dorchester 

We left the hotel early doors and made our way to the start line in the New Forest. We soon arrived, and I got my self sorted to go. 7am Luke and myself checked the first part of where we were heading to and off we went. Both of being off road runners, tarmac didn't exactly excite us, however the first part of the tarmac took us through the beautiful scenic parts of the New Forest. If only the rest of the route was going to be like this. Unfortunately it wasn't to be, and we soon hit Ringwood area heading towards the A31. Having driven the A31 many times before I was in no doubt how busy the route will be for traffic. As we made in to the town we hit our first CP. Now I decided that I wanted each CP to be approximately every 5 miles. I could then treat them like laps of a 24 hour endurance race and tick them off. We quickly took on some snacks like pork pies and crisps check the next part of the route and said good bye to the support crew.

The very start with the support crew

We made our way through the town and soon after took the wrong turn and heading the wrong way. Luckily this mis direction took us down a trail much to Luke's delight and continued until we could hear the busy A31 traffic.

Goodbye Hampshire hello Dorset

As we hit the A31 it was as expected very busy. Unfortunately the first couple of days was going to have to be on the busy A31/35 as going off this route would add further miles and it wasn't something I could afford to do time wise. This was already the longest day out of all 7 and needed to make sure it was nailed. The route took me down duel carriageways which despite being busy weren't that bad due to having a fair bit of space on the side of the road to run on. When we got to the single lane roads of the A31 and ones with out pavements which was pretty much most of we ran with the flow of the traffic. Now we did try and run on the correct side of the road towards the on coming traffic but we found we almost got hit more times on the correct side than when we were going with the traffic. Despite some members of the public trying to tell us which side we should be on, we stuck to our guns and made our way to Dorchester.

At one point as we made it down the single lane A31 there was stand still traffic in the opposite direction. Luke being a much faster runner would run a head for a bit and stretch his legs out. Knowing I still had 6 more days to go I wouldn't be stretching my legs out that fast. Walking the hills and running as much of the rest as much as possible was my plan and it seemed to be going well enough.

Luke at one point spoke to one of the drivers who asked him what was going on casuing the traffic jam. As I caught up with said driver he soon started cheering me and beeping his horn which lead to a couple other cars starting beeping for me. Luke told them what I was up to and it was the kind of moral boost I needed.

It was a warm day on the roads I was definitely feeling the heat. We were making good time though and hitting the CP's and I was ticking each one off. It was during the first day that I had a great idea of having a Callipo ice lollipop. God, it was so refreshing it was like a cold cuddle that was definitely needed. Luke still by side, kept me going as we took the mick out of other and when I started to flag he helped pick smaller goals to run/walk to. Lamp posts, signs, trees whatever we could.

Eventually surviving the first day we made it to Dorchester where we would be staying the first night. We eventually made our way through Dorchester town to the car park where my first finish line was. 11 hrs 4 mins and 40.3 miles I crossed the the finish line of Day 1 of 7. (All times each day include the rest stops at CP's and injury treament times) I was pretty pleased with the time although not quick, it was within the 12 hrs I set and I still had 6 more days to go. Never done multi staged event  like this before I didn't want to risk pushing my self that would break myself too much. I was sore, but nothing unusal at the end of an ultra.

Day 1 Ultra 1 done!

 We stayed at the Thornycoombe Farm which gave us a really great deal on the accommodation. We went out for something to eat, and I came across my first problem. I wasn't able to eat properly, food was starting to unfriend me and not a good sign for the forth coming days.

Day 2 - Dorchester to Honiton

Well I got about 6 hours of sleep, I say sleep my eyes were closed but I was only lightly sleeping and for a heavy sleeper that's not great but it was better than nothing. Starting at 7am again we're all up early packing everything up and getting ready for what will be the toughest route out of all 7. Why is tough 1000 metres of climb in total but the climbs aren't stupidly steep they are very long. Again, I knew the route and I know the A35 very well driving it a lot because of work.

Day 2 Ultra 2 start

I eat some food, took a couple painkillers and then went in front of the car and threw everything up. Not a start I wanted, my body was starting to react badly to wanting to go again. I stretched a bit to try and ease up my legs and off we went. Again with Luke at my side we started off with a little walk to try and ease my legs in. The back of my right knee, became very painful. We broke into a run and I had to stop immediately. I called the support crew to pull over so I could get to them. I hobbled to the truck, and I could barely move my right leg. We taped up the back of my right leg to see if that would help at all. It seemed to help slightly as although in pain, it let me get a run/walk on.

We made our way out of Dorchester and on to the A35 heading towards Honiton. As we got about 2-3 miles down the road, I hear a friendly voice I recognise shout out of one of the support vehicle windows as they over took. That voice belonged to Duane Roberts of Team Buff UK. He had traveled down from the South East after visiting his daughter and the birth of his first grandchild to Bridport the night before slept in his van. Got up early ran to 16 miles to Dorchester to meet me. He stopped in the McDonalds for a coffee and missed us go passed. So my support crew found him and brought him to us. He then joined me and Luke for my run. This man is on form at the moment, acquiring quite a few podium places. Recently securing 2nd place at Thunder Run 24 smashing in 125 miles only just over a week before.

That was it now, there was 3 of us on our way heading to Honiton. The weather was close in temp but over cast, with a tiny bit rain to start with. This soon changed as we made our way to Bridport, and it became very warm and sunny once more. With Duane and Luke pushing me, I was starting to feel it. We were hitting the check points, but I was struggling to take anything but fluids in. Everything felt very dry even when mixing it with water I struggled.

As we approached Bridport, I thought Duane would be stopping but no he was going all the way to Honiton, morale levels up now but pain levels increasing. My feet were getting painful as they were swelling. I had bought shoes a size bigger in anticipation of this but they were growing a size and half bigger in width. With the pain behind my knees I was struggling not including the heat.

Goodbye Dorset hello Devon with Luke and Duane

 As we got to Bridport there was a fatality accident closing one of the roads, so traffic was at stand still however despite the good feeling of passing the cars and going faster than them, my support crew was stuck in it. I made the decision to not have the next check point and to just crack on as it meant I could be waiting a long time for the crew to arrive. Eventually they made it through and set up at 18 miles at the top of a really long climb.

The day seemed to get longer and longer as we made our way to Honiton, knowing the route didn't help as I knew when the hills were coming and they just never ended. Duane and Luke were pushing me as best they could and with the final hill climb completed it left with a down hill finish in Honiton. I crossed the line a very broken man mentally and physically. 11 hours and 53 mins to cover 36 miles. Short route than day 1 but 3 times tougher!

A mutual friend of Phil's called Brendan Hooper lent us a student house he owns in Exeter which isn't far from Honiton and Torquay (Day 3's finish) so we were setting up HQ there for the next two nights. The wife took Duane back to his van in Bridport, and Luke and Les took me back to the house. They set up an ice bath (which the ice was kindly provided by Brendan for me as well as other stuff) and boiled me up a ration pack meal I had. I managed to eat 1 and a bit of spag bol ration packs before getting my head down. Luke was taken to the train station as he had work to do for his Masters to get on with and I went to bed. Day 3 was going to be difficult as I knew I was going to be alone for most of the day and because of how I was feeling I was starting even earlier.

Day 3 - Honiton to Torquay

Welcome to hell! That's probably my best way to describe this day. So much so I've pretty much blanked the majority of the day from my memory. This section is going to be short because of that very reason, I don't want to relive it as much as possible.

Knowing I was going to be slow due to being by myself and in severe pain and with the weather turning to shit I took the decision to start at 5am not 7am.

Day 3 Ultra 3 start

I made a start again with a walk to try and get the first few bits to ease my legs off. However it turned ugly for me. With my feet in severe pain, the legs so stiff and my back of my right knee in a bad way I was struggling.

We only had one vehicle today as were returning to the same house and being by myself the medic jumped in the wife's car. This allowed him to jump out and walk with me for a bit. I got to 5k and my pace was so shocking I had to call a pit stop. 45 minute miles was happening! Physically and mentally I was broken. I sat on the boot of the car and went over everything in my head. I received a phone call from Duane who tried to pick me up. It was no good, I had to do something and quitting completely was the likely option.

I had a think and decided to get a couple hours sleep and see how I felt when I woke up. I woke up, smashed in some food and decided to crack on. I felt better for it. Weather was still poor, but I was making better head way than I was. The wife had been drumming up support via social media and seeing it all helped me mentally. I found out 3 runners were going to join me out side Torquay for the last 10K of the run. I had to get there.

Eventually I made it and they met up with me. A lady I met during Imrey's Trail Half marathon who I helped finish it, Mark Stockman and Steve Hookins who I met through the Hope24 event. Suddenly it was like a new lease of life! They got me to the finish line in Torquay and helped me end what was the lowest part of my life. The best way to describe how I felt during the 37 tough miles and 14 hours of hell was suicidal.

Day 3 Ultra 3 finish 2ith Mark, Steve and Chrissy

 A day I do not want to repeat ever again! My sports masseuse from Muscle Mechanic based in Hampshire was at the end to greet me. Despite being 8 months pregnant Amanda still came down and started right away as I tucked away into food (I had demolished a child's burger and chips) on my legs. She flossed my swollen joints which was my left ankle (an injury from Endure12/50 a couple of weekends prior) and my right knee. A painful procedure but worth the pain for the pain. When we got back to the house, she went to town my body. She was amazing!

We took the tape off my feet to try and let the feet breath a bit and to see damage caused it wasn't a pretty sight. With tape running out quickly, the crew rang MyRaceKit and spoke to friends Elisabet and Colin who swiftly dispatched more in time for our arrival in Plymouth. Those two have been a god send to me and I can't thank them enough.

Blisters on blisters

Nasty!

 Day 4 - Torquay to Devonport (Plymouth)

Starting at 7am again we were up early back into Torquay ready to go. Unexpectedly I was joined at the start by Brendan Hooper. The guy who lent me his house for two nights, had just finished a night shift and was now joining me for the start of the run. Amazing! He pledged to run for the first 4 hours so he still had time to get some sleep and get ready to go back for another night shift.

Day 4 Ultra 4 start

 Amanda had given a quick sort out prior to leaving the house, and although still stiff and sore I was able to go again. So because my feet suffered badly the day before I made alterations to my shoes I cut  into the side and this allowed the pressure to be released. My poor shoes, however a size bigger wasn't cutting it.


My feet felt so much better and I was making good picking small goals to run/walk through. I seemed to be getting stronger as the day went on as well making my way through South Hams district. Food was going down, I was doing well on crisps, Muller rice etc. Soon Brendan left me and I was on my own once more, but this time I felt better. I was in a positive place both mentally and physically.

I got CP3 where Amanda had her table out ready for me, she gave me another going over. Whilst there two elderly ladies asked what was going on. Soon they were off to their cars getting some money to donate. Both of them lost their fathers to Oesophaegal cancer. Another morale boost from this because strangers were donating!

I went on my way feeling good, sore, achy but good. Heading towards South Brent I could see the moors of Dartmoor in the distance. I was getting closer to where I live but more importantly the finish. I made my way towards Ivybridge, coming down a 20% incline wasn't good for my legs, but as at 1.5 miles outside of Ivybridge where the next CP was, I was joined by friend from my local running club the Plymouth Musketeers. He was going to run with me to the finish, the day was heating up and it was the morale boost once more I needed.

Gary kept me coming from Ivybridge

We made it through to Ivybridge and to the CP. I took on my snacks and liquid now consisting of Milk, Coconut water and flat coke as standard. We were given a Callipo and on my way to Plympton power station the next CP. Along the way my best mate Adam who had just finished work and caught me up for a bimble. I left him and off we ran on our route. This route had kept me off the A38 luckily and around the back roads. Although one part took us up a public footpath it was so muddy it had been recently used by 4x 4's for green laneing. I tried to keep out of it now, as by this point my feet had swelled in width and length a size and half and had now cut the toe box up to allow the ends of my toes more room. Last thing I needed was my feet to be wet and muddy.

With the next CP done and dusted I was no in Plympton where I was joined by another two Muskies, Stuart and Adrian and then making my way past my house I was joined by Amie who is a parkrunner at the parkrun I run direct at and a member of the Sweatshop Running community I go to. I now had 4 runners with me and still about 10 miles to go. As we approached Marsh Mills CP I was joined by more Muskies and Sweatshop Community runners (SRC) including Luke who took a couple hours of uni work. It was mad, I was now surrounded by runners and I felt like I was the PM out on a run. We made our way along the embankment towards the city centre where I was then joined by Pete Waumsley a Tamar Trotter and owner of Frank Elfords Sports shop. A good friend who has given me lots of support over the last year in my journey towards this event.

I made my way through Plymouth and I could feel the end was coming! I eventually came to the down hill to the ferry terminal finish line, I finished strongly and crossed the line with everyone behind me. It was so great to have my local running friends join me!

Day 4 Ultra 4 done!

 35.5 miles and in 11 hours 3 minutes I actually felt really positive about the last 3 days!

Day 5 - Devonport to Lanydrock House (nr Bodmin)

Today started with a final sort out by Amanda before she had to shoot off back home to Hampshire. I can't thank her enough really for the work she did! It was truly appreciated and definitely needed! Thank you Amanda! After a night in my own bed, it was very difficult to get out of bed and I did not want to leave my house, however I knew I had to.

Day 5 Ultra 5 start

I got to the Ferry terminal in time to catch the 0645 ferry across to Torpoint to start Day 5 and soon enough I was across the other side. As I made my way through Torpoint I was met by a lady runner called Carole, who found out about the event through her news feed. Having never met her before this was amazing, she wanted to keep me company until the first CP. It was great, totally unexpected but great. We chatted along until she finally had to leave me. I made 3 more miles up until once more I was joined by another runner called Jane. She is one of the Mud Crew Event directors. Mud Crew put on events such as the Dark, Scrooge, ultras such R.A.T Plague and Arc of Attrition 100. Amazing events organised by ultra runners who know what runners want. Jane was wonderful she was going to keep me company til the end!

Carole joined me for a few miles

The lovely Jane

 We made away along the route dodging a lot of the A38 around the back roads. With some steep short climbs this would be another tough day and with the weather getting better as we ran along it wouldn't be long before it was hot. As we made our way I was soon joined by Ross, my next door neighbour who is a rugby player not a runner. He came out to keep me company for a few miles and managed to knock out 6 miles. It was great and I felt so humbled by this!

Next door neighbour Ross did some miles too!

Ross soon left us and myself and Jane made our way, eventually having to run a small part of the A38 heading down in to Glyn Valley or as I call it death valley. Luckily it wasn't for long and we again went off into the back roads, through more places I have never run before. Very scenic areas and having Jane as company made even more pleasurable. The hills still kept coming but I was in my stride and made our way closer and closer to the finish.

With Lanyhdrock House in close proximity I picked up the pace, and powered my way over the finish line once more. Another 33.3 miles smashed out and this time in 10 hours and 58 minutes. Jane was an angel on my shoulder at all times and I was so pleased we finished ahead of time. Great not only by my support crew but a friend Tammy from the Subaru owners club I belong to. It was so nice to see her at the end.

Day 5 Ultra 5finish with Jane.

 We arrived at our hotel and for the first time, I managed to smash in a proper adult's size meal. It was very good!

Day 6 - Lanhydrock House to Blackwater

A late start today at 9am why? Well I decided I need to complete another event. Event 27 Lanhydrock parkrun. Jane once again met me as it was her local parkrun that she also run directs. Along with some fellow muskies who came down to support, this parkrun wasn't going to be easy deemed as the 2nd toughest in the UK due to it's elevation profile I was just going to continue in the same fashion I had for the last 5 days.

Event 27 of 37 start!

I soon made my way round the course to the finish line where I was greeted with cheers and claps from a lot of the other parkrunners. I didn't have time to hang around though I was back on event 26 and and making my way out of the House grounds and on towards Blackwater (nr Truro).

I was accompanied by Jon Anderson who is also a fellow Muskie and SRC runner like myself. His lovely wife let him keep me company all the way til the half way point at Indian Queens. Now during the time the temperature rose, it was in around 26 degrees and the route had very little shelter, being very open. I was catching the sun nicely and I was definitely feeling the heat. my thoughts then turned to all those I knew who completed the Marathon de Sables event. Thinking if they can endure hotter for 6 days I can endure this for today. At one point a random runner out on his training run, spotted us. He asked the crew what we were doing and then caught us up to wish us luck before going back on his way. Humbling!

Jon kept me company from the park run for a few hours

Making good time, again I was ahead of schedule. Jon soon left me at Indian Queens where I was met by another good friend of mine Craig. we started running together when we both looked at losing weight and I got a place in the London Marathon 2010. Since then he's go on to smashing out ultras and marathons with good ease. He also support crewed Hope24 for me back in May.

Off we left the CP at Indian Queens and away we went but not along after I was surprised by Tony and Natalie Wallbank who were down on holiday. Natalie jumped out of their motor home with one of their dogs and joined me for about 4/5 miles, whilst Tony drove on and took some lovely photo's. You often find these two taking pics at various sporting events around the globe like the World Triathlon series. Randomly whilst also truly amazing, a guy called Pete (didn't get his surname) heard about me at the parkrun and caught up with me at Indian Queens and donated some money. I'm not sure if he went out of his own way or was on his way home either way it was great.

I was in a good place and we carried on smashing out the miles in the heat. I said my byes to Natalie and Tony, and continued on my way with Craig. Soon I was on the A30 getting closer and closer and when I finally got to the last check point I was met by Craig's wife Zoe (who is currently in training for her first ultra). Zoe had already been on a run this morning and as both had too go away for the last day they decided to support me today.

Tony and Natalie Wallbank top friends!

It was great two of my good friends keeping me company, pushing me on to the finish! No sooner said than done, we got on the downhill finish to Blackwater and we crossed the line! I was greeted by Phil's mum, my mum and dad and a few friends such a nice feeling.

Day 6 Ultra 6 finish with Craig and Zoe

31.3 miles in 9.52.03 and a parkrun nailed!

However feeling very broken I asked a friend for a favour, she allowed me to disturb her BBQ with runners from Carn Runners to give me an emergency massage. Alison from West Cornwall Massage Therapy worked her magic at short notice and it helped me start the final day! She saved me!

My 1 size bigger Hoka Flops shame my feet grow 1.5 sizes bigger!

Day 7 - Blackwater to Land's End via St Day (Phil's childhood home)

So here it is the final day, a day which at one point I didn't think I'd get to event though I didn't have a choice it did feel it could've been over early.

One final time getting up at 5am to prep myself for a 7am start, getting the vehicles ready and today I knew I was being joined by some other friends of Phil's who pledged their support be it for a short run or the whole day. At the start I was joined by Adam my best mate who doesn't run, Luke Collins another friend who is a second row 19 stone rugby player, Donna who is a casual runner but likes to keep fit, her friend Sharon, Wedge who is Phil's best friends since they were children and a friend of mine. He used to be a runner and a good one. Also joining us for a bit was Kathryn from Carn Runners who wanted to show support for a few miles as well as David who found out about the even through a post on his page.

Day 7 ultra 7 start

All their fresh faces surrounded me at the start line where I was definitely showing signs of being broken over the last 6 days. After a few photo's we started just after 7am and made our way to St Day to Phil's childhood house to quickly see his mum. The road to St Day from Scorrier is a bit hairy so we jumped on the trail which was a lot safer than the road way especially with such a large group.

We arrived at Phil's mum house for a couple of photo's and again made our way on to the first CP in Redruth. Kathryn left us and we made our way then on to Camborne to CP2, everyone still in high spirits, with Wedge providing the entertainment of bad jokes and bashing into every lamp post and sign along the way (nope he never got bored of it and did it till the end, we did however got bored of it hehe!)

Phil's mum Gill

Kathryn departed after a few miles

The miles were ticking off nicely and Adam was still going. I expecting him only to do a few miles as he never runs, but there he was still going. We made it to CP2 and 10 miles nailed. Next up was Hayle and we went via the old A30 slightly tougher route but not so busy with traffic. With the support vehicles warning other road users of us on the roads, we made our way through Connor Downs where I was then joined by local ultra runner who works in At Your Pace running shop in Helston, Loyd Purvis. I met Loyd during Arc of Attrition this year and became friends since. He came out to support me and get some time on feet prior to running UTMB in a couple of weeks.

Local legend Loyd from At Your Pace trail team

Not sure what he was expecting by the runners that were with me but he was soon being entertained by Wedge. We made our way through Hayle, to CP3 next to Philps Pasties. I didn't have one though sadly. I went through my usual routine now, and the crew are all over it having it ready. It all seems to be working very well now. Adam however was starting to feel it now with his IT band starting to give him pain.Convincing him to go on, because it was for our friend Phil he did and we left hayle making our way to St Erth. Where I met Pete Drummond who was on holiday. Pete anotehr ultra runner and MDS finisher in 2014 I met through Hope24. He along with friend Danny Slay organise the event, and I know if Danny wasn't in New Zealand on a well earned holiday he'd also be running with us.

Hope24 legend Pete

Finally we made it to CP4 which was 21 miles in and I finally said good bye to Adam. He was broken and in quite a lot of pain with his knee. The man who never runs, smashed out 21 miles for Phil supporting me. I was in awe! The others who started with me were still going and big Luke was still going however he was starting to feel it as well as Donna and her friend Sharon who are doing well and into a distance they have never ever been before.

Best mate Adam!

 Through into Penzance we finally came across signs for Land's End and I knew it won't be long. I ignored the Cornish miles signs as being raised in Cornwall I know how much they lie. We powered up the hills and the soon the ladies were feeling it too. We got to the next check point and it went from me being looked after to Luke, Donna and Sharon being treated for blisters, and sore joints. Making sure they took in snacks as well once they were sorted we made our way where two more of Donna's friends from the gym joined with 7 miles to go.

It suddenly was me encouraging those not used to the distance but it was great, seeing them push their limits made me continue to push mine. With support from Loyd and Pete the miles to the last CP flew by and we soon was in and out and on our way to the finish. As we got closer I was joined by other friends Stuart, Ben, Jackie and Luke Elliott (he had to finish with me). Then as we came through Sennen I was joined by 3 more runners who I never met before but have been following me via social media before eventually by my big Sis Rowann who has only just started running and my eldest nephew Jago.

We came toward the finishing straight and there is was Land's End! I picked up the pace a little more and with 200 yrds to go I was joined by my son and wife until the finish line! I did it I crossed the finish line!

Finally Day 7 ultra 7 done!

Relief!!

 248.2 miles from New Forest to Land's End and after 87 hours and 14 minutes (including all CP stops and injury treatment and day 3's 2 hours rest) I did it! 7 ultra marathons in 7 days via a route no one has done before and understandably so!

A feat I would not have completed if it wasn't for my support crew and all the support runners that came out from start to finish.

Day 7 support runners!

People asked how I felt when I finished, I felt relieved I had no more tarmac. It wasn't until 3 days later I woke finally realising what I had achieved and I felt legendary.

What a lot of people don't realise is how much work, the support crew did. Setting up the CP's ready for me, treating me, feeding me, getting fluids in me, answering my beckon calls. Then on top dealing with the social media sides of things, trying to keep people updated of timings, drumming up support, fundraising and then keeping my 4 year old occupied and happy. My boy considering still thinks it was a holiday and was good as gold. He had his moments but then if it was you in the same situation as my boy you'd have your moments too lol

One of the blisters at the end

My thanks goes out to once more

X-Bionic and Sunwise for the kit they provided me and the continued support.
All the support runners (so many to list)
Thornycoombe farm, Brendan Hooper, My parents for helping me out with accommodation and reducing costs.
All the support via social media.
Amanda from Muscle Mechanic (Sports Massage therapy)
Alison Campbell from West Cornwall Massage Therapy
Elisabet & Colin Barnes from MyRaceKit 
L &E Designs - Thank you medals for any runner that supported me.
Les my Medic
My Wife and Son who made all the rest possible!

Sorry if I forgot anyone, or missing pictures there was a lot.

BIG THANK YOU TO THE CREATOR OF CALLIPO ICE POPS YOU WERE MY SAVIOUR!

During this time I reached and smashed my target for the whole year Just Giving Page reaching to date so far £2,255. I still have 10 events left to go so please don't stop following my journey.

Remember "You only reach your limits when you've tried something you can't do"

Thank you! A lot of lessons learnt but a lot achieved!
Owain

Endure 12/50 (Ultra12) Endurance Event - Run, Snack, Repeat

As I write this I'm comfortably resting my poor blistered toes (I can hear the little violins going as I type) and a slightly sore left ankle.

When I had to pull out of Dartmoor Discovery due to work at the end of May I needed to find another ultra event to replace DD which was in June. Having no luck for an event in June around work and holiday I found an event in mid July. A 12 hour endurance event called Ultra12 was giving to me by a friend on Facebook who was also running it. So that night I looked up the event Endure 12/50 and entered it. Ultra12 it's original name but is now known as Endure 12/50. As well as the 12 hour endurance run which you can enter as a soloist or as part of a team, there is also a 50K race and a 50 mile race.

Bib Number

 Now as my longest ultra distance of the 7 ultras in 7 days (#YOLO7dayUltra) is about 40 miles, I wanted to use this event as a basis of time and planning for that event. So I gave myself a target of 40 miles within the 12 hour period.

The event is located in Beale Park, just outside Reading, so we had a bit of journey to make. Even though the event wasn't starting til 7pm of the Saturday I didn't want to be leaving earlier in the morning of arriving and setting up base and not leaving me much time to prepare myself. So we set off Thursday night? Thursday night you ask, well I have a 4 year old boy and he has had to put up with a lot of me running in events. So we booked a hotel Thursday night, so we can set up camp early Friday morning and then take my boy to Legoland which was about half hour away and give him a treat for being my best support crew member I could ask for.

Event 25 of 37 - Endure 12/50 (Ultra12) Endurance Event.

As the sun rose, after a pleasant night of chilling out around the fire pit talking with the organisers I woke around 6am after a pretty broken sleep. The wife took my boy out for the afternoon so I could try and catch a few hours sleep before the race started, however due to the heat in the tent, and outside noise I couldn't get any so I will be running through the night having been up since 6am. Not much difference to the 24 hour events I guess, I am also used to this when working nights.

The fire pit

 Eventually with our gazebo and table set up alongside the race line with all our drinks and snacks available for when we need it so we can snack and go. That was the plan run, snack and repeat.

With the safety brief given the 50 milers and 12 hour runners lined up on starting line for the 7pm start, the 50K runners had a different start point so they can cover the correct distance. There was a slight delay of 10 minutes to the start but soon the hooter started and we were off! 5 miles laps of multi terrain.

Start/Finish straight

The course route was pretty much flat with two very slight inclines. Flat ultra's is something I have never run before so this was going to be different. I had to make sure I didn't go too fast just because it was flat.

The course lead us out of the camping field and in through a field for the short stay parking (those who were doing the 50K and wanting not to hang around) and into a loop around another field just opposite the camping field. After about a mile this brought on to the road which takes us past the camping field. So by now the supporters would've seen the runners 3 times before heading down the road past the 2K mark. Now considering the course is 5 miles I would've preferred the course to have been marked in miles not KM's but that's just me I'm funny like that. As we left the camping area the music faded out into the distance and followed the road all the way until the 1st marshaled area.

My motivation

We made our way off the road and onto a gravel track and through a field before hitting the next marshal spot at 3K, marshal had parked his VW camper van at the corner where we turned and headed along the Thames. The VW Camper had two big speakers playing music and when it got dark was turned in to a Lucozade Sport (bar) and was lit brightly up (see pic). Probably one of my favorite marshal spots I've come across.

Coolest Marshal point ever?

The route then followed the Thames passing moored boats berthed along the waters edge with various boat owners and passengers providing some support atmosphere until darkness set in properly. We passed the 4K mark and not long after we reached the water station marshal point. Using my Inov 8 race vest I didn't require to use the water station, but it was used a fair bit I noticed by other runners.

Along the Thames

I continued further down the Thames until we reach the turning point where another set of marshals were back into Beale Park's grounds and hitting the 5K mark. Back on the tarmac and we headed through what could be described as the animal park, however I never saw any live ones only statues of various animals and some sculpted ones were a bit freaky when I saw them in my head light.  Pass another marshal point and around the parks car parking area through trees hitting the 6K mark at the top of a small incline. Normally these types of inclines wouldn't bother me but after a few laps I did start to walk them. It was back on the tarmac for a little bit with a down incline towards the short stay parking area of the campsite. We turned at the marshal once at the short stay parking and up another slight grassy incline.

My snacks and drink supply

We then headed down through a wooded area that went behind the camping and around it. Once it was dark two areas where trees had completely covered over head was lit up with fairy lights. These were just after the 7K mark and once we hit the second lit up trees we knew there was half a KM left and we soon turned on to a track before turning again into the camping area to the race start/finish line.

My motivation for this one

We completed the first lap in 51 mins which I was pretty happy with and new that would be our fastest lap recorded as we were stopping to snack after each lap. We reached my table of food and drink, and I took on some pork pie and banana. Picked up some isotonic drink stuck it in my race vest and off I went. I walked whilst I snacked and then ran once more my brother in law Paul was keeping me company once more during this event. He was a last minute entry as originally he couldn't make it. I was pleased to have the company again. Making our way round the second lap Paul was getting issues with the seams of his shorts. I started to feel hot spots commonly known about on my feet. I tried a different form of anti blistering powder. Which didn't work, so the wife who was my support crew taped up my feet using the kit I acquired from myRaceKit .

One more to go!

Again snacked up and off we went. It was fully dark and head torches were ever where along the route. However the music at the campsite was turned off, which was a little disappointing, even just turned down it's still provides a great atmosphere at these events. Anyway that was just a little thing that was missing from the event. We made our way round the 3rd lap and Paul was really struggling, he was broken already. We reduced our runs to run walks during the lap to get him round, and we made it back, we made sure he got some food and liquid inside him. Over the next few laps we walked more than we ran to make sure he could keep going. As we ticked off the laps, I could tell Paul was in suffering. I too felt blisters appearing on my toes, and a niggle under my left knee cap forming. Despite this I felt pretty good, but with Paul suffering he didn't want to do more than the target of 40 miles. Despite our pace slowing down the target was still possible to hit.

After the 35 mile completed we took a slightly longer rest for Paul to recover before fitting in the last lap. I felt I could've fitted in another lap with less stopping time earlier and also I had plenty of time to go and complete one last lap but once we hit 40 and with Paul not wanting to go on, I had lost the motivation myself to go on. It was good to feel I could do more though. So we finished 40 miles in 11 hours and 31 minutes and with a great sprint finish. Considering we had 55 mins of rest period in total I'm pretty pleased that the run time was 10hrs 36 mins. The hooter sounded at 7.10am to finish the event and those who were out on their laps still slowly finished off the laps. Even though the course was pretty much flat the uneven under foot terrain and the odd animal holes I found (hence sore ankle) made it still a tough test

Finished and some one is a little broken

During this event, I planned to give the Hoka Cliftons a good run out. Although it was multi terrain, it had been dry enough all day until the last lap when it rained, to warrant road shoes. I had other shoes in case I needed to change though. For the first time I didn't suffer bruising of the bottom of my feet during a long run so very happy. They were amazing all the way round.

Event 25 of 37 completed!

I only used my Sunwise glasses for the first lap it got dark after that and I went with the X-Bionic Fennec top this time instead of my trick top with my X-Bionic running shorts. Great kit and still providing me the support I need through all this. I can't thank Sunwise and X-Bionic enough really.

So there you, another event done. I really enjoyed this event, and if I'm not away at sea next year I think I will be back again. It is only in it's second year but I'm sure it will continue to grow like it's sister event Endure24, hopefully not as big though as I like the atmosphere of the smaller family feel events. May it continue with it's success and hopefully keep the music going all night next year ;)

Bling

Only 2 weeks now until #YOLO7dayUltra getting very real now.

Until next time.

Event 23 Sweatshop Running Community Virtual 5k - Are virtual events worth it?

As the title suggests only two days after Event 22 at Boconnoc, Cornwall I nailed my second event of the week and the 1st one of July.

Event 23 - Sweatshop Running Community (SRC) Virtual 5K Plymouth.

I've been a member of the SRC now for about 19 months, I joined them before I joined the Plymouth Musketeers Running Club a few months later. The SRC is a free running community run by Sweatshops across the UK. Much like parkrun where you just register and turn up, the difference is, the staff at the shops lead the running sessions. You aren't affiliated like you can be through a running club but their other incentives such as every time you turn up you stamp your card once a week and every so often you receive a reward. Week 1 is a nutrition pack, week 5 is a SRC top, etc until week 50 which is a pair of shoes up to £100.

I run once a week with them on a Monday as my club main night is Thursday. It gives me an opportunity to run with other people more often than just the Muskies club runs. They have various routes laid out from 3K to 7K's on the Monday night and 10K's and Endurance training on Thursday's. Occasionally there are beginner classes as well. So it is aimed at a mix of abilities.

There are a few Muskies who also run with SRC as well so it's quite nice. We meet at the shop, have a good catch up and run.

Bib Number

 Plymouth SRC advertised a virtual 5K event via their Facebook page which was through virtualrunning.com. As I had a bad run at event 22 I want to get over it sooner rather than later so I entered. The even cost around £10 or so to enter and like pretty much all other virtual events especially the others I have done there is a charity associated and money from the entrance fee goes towards that charity.

What is a virtual event? Basically it's an event created over the internet usually for a charity, where people can enter and these vary in distances. It allows people to run that event when they can. So for instance this one runs throughout July. So you can use a training run, or another event like parkrun if it fits in your distance for the event as an example to run it. Once you've run the event you upload your proof be it from a running app or watch and they send you the award which is usually a medal of some sort. Sometimes also a goody bag.

As Plymouth SRC had a set 5K route for this week, I decided to do mine then. I printed off my bib number pinned it to my top, although most don't give a bib number. With company from one of the other SRC members who is also a staff member. Off I went out in to the very warm streets of Plymouth. Luckily Jessica kept me company as she was taking it easy due to a recent injury and she had Lakelands coming up. Jessica was another Hope24 soloists this year and managed to smash out a lot of miles that weekend.

The Route

I completed my 5K event forwarded my proof to Virtualrunner.com where the results will be processed for the event and my bling sent out to me.

I like the idea of virtual events because of the simplicity of them. They are also a great idea for fundraising too! You don't have to sort out routes, organise marshals etc. All you have to do set up the event, sort out the payment for it, order rewards like medals then send them out once the runner has completed them. The runner can use other events to do it like a parkrun and jobs a good un. The runner can fit it round work, family and other commitments. Quite a few times I've been unable to run an event due to other commitments and virtual events like this allows people like myself to still earn some bling, whilst giving money to charities.

Unique Bling

I have two other virtual events lined up, one on the 11th and one which is 10 months long again all these will help me hit my total events goal. So if you are busy person who can't always make races, or someone who lacks a little confidence to go to a race but still want to earn some medals why not look at these virtual events.

So 23 of 37 events completed with 14 to go at least!

Thank you for reading please have a look at the Facebook page for more updates.
#YOLO7dayUltra FB page

Owain

Boconnoc Multi Terrain Race Event 22 (A bad day in the office)

After what was a busy June in regards to work and holiday, June lacked in races for me. I can almost hear the little violins being played as I write this hehe!

Now having only done one race at Bude, Cornwall (Event 21) before going away on holiday to Kos I was really looking forward to toeing the start line again at an event in Boconnoc, Cornwall. Having to work lots before and after the holiday despite getting runs in, the quality of training around work hasn't been a good as I'd like to be honest. I should remain positive though take away the fact I am still running regardless.

Anyway there was an event down in Cornwall not too far away that I heard about ad fancied giving it a go. It was a Multi Terrain race around the beautiful National Trust Estate in Boconnoc and as I could enter on the day I thought I'd go give it a go. It was ideal for me as it was an evening race so allowed me to pick my boy up from pre school and drop him off to the wife at her work on my way to the race.

Event 22 - Boconnoc Multi Terrain 5 Mile Race

I was feeling good in my self for this, on my way to the event traffic was good so little stress or panic. The weather was really good with very high temperatures even in the evening. The UK was having a good spell of hot weather so I knew the course was going to be pretty dray around most of it if not all. You never quite know with multi terrain/trails how they will be under foot if in shelter of trees and knowing the estate I knew the route passes through some wooded areas.

I arrived in good time and finding the event was pretty easy well marked along the way and ample of parking which was marshaled by the volunteers from the St Austell Running Club who were laying on the event.  Registration was simple enough, the usual fill out a form pay your money with a little extra for on the day and it cost me £12. I was given my race number and off I went. Being a Cornish event, I got to catch up with my good friend and some of his Carn Runner friends as well some Mud Crew legends of Andrew Ferguson (recently smashed in West Highland Way Ultra) and Jane Stephens (recently smashed in the Classic Quarter Ultra). It was nice to chat to them and catch. Up these runners have been very supportive of what I am doing and it proves what a close community the ultra running world is.

Craig and myself

 So after the fun run for the younger runners had finished it was out turn. We all mustered on the start line for a quick safety brief. The weather was still sunny and the temperature was still very warm I would say borderline roasting to be honest. I was in two minds knowing how I am with heat and hydration to wear my inov8 race vest but I thought otherwise. I carried a Lucozade bottle with me and I knew there would be at least a water stop around the half way mark.

We set off and went down hill from the start via a tarmac section. It wasn't a long section of downhill as once we turned right along the start of the various terrains it was the start of a slight incline. The terrains changed from trail, gravel, grass and undulating underfoot. It weaved us around a section of woods and across a small river crossing. The river wasn't very deep but enough to get a little wet. With the heat it was refreshing on the feet. Soon the incline increased in climb and it became a lot steeper. The hill or incline wasn't a short one either it went on right until 2.3ish miles before eventually leveling out. By now I had gone through some slightly soft muddy patches in the sheltered sections of the woods. Despite being in these sheltered areas is was still very warm and close.

Boconnoc Estate

 I soon reached the water station, manned by some ladies and children.The kids were picking up the dis-guarded cups and the ladies were handing the cups of water out. The route then dropped down hill slightly before coming out at 3 mile mark for a short period of tarmac. Turning left off the tarmac through woodland once more along the trails. The trail was again undulating underfoot and it rolled up and down as you went, with another downhill section at the 4 mile part it was soon another climb back up as you headed toward the finish. With about 3 hundred yards to go it was downhill with the short uphill finish to where we started.

Trail through one of the wooded sections

 As runs go for me, it was a bad day. I was not feeling the love at all. I struggled even with the 5 miles. The course was great, it had it's challenges that make it a good multi terrain course and yes the weather was warm, but this was not an excuse for my poor performance. My body was just in love with it today. My head was loving it though, it enjoyed the course and the scenery. The event is well organised, well marshaled. I guess maybe my body was out of race form as it's been used to racing pretty much every other weekend up until June.

Not sure why, it felt like this for me to be honest even during the drive home I was kicking myself. Yes I have had slower times in other events some due to supporting another runner, some because I fancied just taking it easy. This time was neither it was my body holding back for some reason. I will put it down to being out of routine for now. I've another event Thursday night so will see how it goes then.

I recommend the event I was the only member from my club to go to it, which surprised me a little as it wasn't that far to go. Hopefully more hit it up next year. I am not a fan of the baseball cap memento to be honest though, the fun runners got medals and I like my bling to hang up but that's just me. I will do this one again and recommend people to do it though.

Baseball cap finishers momento

 During this event I took my first pair of Hoka's out for a test run. The conditions allowed me to get away with road shoes, so this was a good opportunity to put some miles in them.  The reason I wanted to give Hoka's a go is because especially on road runs over distance I bruise the bottom of my feet easily. I wear lightweight shoes like Saucony Kinvara's but over long distance and not being an very quick runner my feet take a pounding and suffer for it. So not sacrificing lightweight for big amounts of cushioning I chose Hoka Clifton's. They are 215 grams which are slightly light than my Kinvara's at 218 grams yet they are amazingly comfortable under foot and feel like running on cushions. They look clumsy but take my word they are far from it. I am looking forward to putting some miles in these and hopefully this will be a solution to my comfort issue. First impression for me are only positives and that the shoe seems to be a good one.

My new Hoka Cliftons

Well 22 event out the 37 target completed 15 to go. It's also getting very close now to the main event on 3rd August. Excited but nervous as well.

Thank you for reading
Owain

Event 21 - Bude Lifeboat Run - An evening in the Cornish Sun.

Hello readers,

We're now half way through the year, and I'm half way over my target goal of 37 events. With June being busy for me with work and going away on holiday (or as I call it Training Camp) there is little room for events. However mid this week, two events in the evening provided me with an opportunity as I was working days and not nights. I either stayed local and run a 5K event (one I had already run in May) or travel just over an hour away for a multi terrain 6 mile event in North Cornwall. I chose to travel for an event I had not run before as I like to try new events out.

I finished work, picked up fellow club member Jason and made our way from Plymouth to Bude. The trip wasn't the greatest, with road works, single roads and rush hour proved despite leaving early enough it would still be a little close in timings getting there. We both still had to register as we chose to enter after pre entry had closed.

Me and Jason went on a road trip

 After arriving at the Race HQ, we were informed parking was down the road in a car park with a small walk back to the Race HQ. We arrived at the car park to be informed it was pretty much full and that we may have to park even further away. Being someone who doesn't like leaving things too late, there was no way I was going even further away from Race HQ. So I found a place to park (just about) and made our way to registration. It was already very busy with the junior fun just starting and the main race runners gathering, registration was busy. With limited entries to 300 runners, by the time I got to the registration desk via queuing they had run out of numbers and had to go find some more. Obviously they were expecting only 250 runners as they found spare numbers for remainder of entrants. They had in fact 342 runners which was a record for the event. They had run out of safety pins for runners to pin their numbers on. Usually I carry my own or my race belt but I had forgotten both in the rush in the morning to get ready for work and through everything in my kit bag.

Luckily I had seen one of my good friends Craig who runs for a Cornish Club called Carn Runners (another bunch of mad socially friendly runners) who had spare. Craig's friend Vinni had some Carn Runner bib clips as well, and offered me them. So I ran in my club vest with Carn Runner race number clips. Maybe I should have a second claim with their club!

Me and good friend Craig

 The event was starting and finishing at Bude Rugby club, which provided ample facilities of changing rooms, toilets, baggage drop and Burger stall.

Fellow Muskies Darren, Jason and Joanne

 Event 21 of 37 - Bude Lifeboat Run

The event itself was a 6 mile (ish) course. It was part of the Cornish Multi Terrain Race Series (MTRS) which would earn runners points or whatever through the series if they ran all the or some of the events. As it's not part of Devon's series it didn't really effect me in that way.

The weather was great, sunny quite warm with a breeze in some parts. I didn't know to much about the route, some mentioned it was flatish. However knowing multi terrain events in the South West as I do, I doubted it would be that boring.

As previously mentioned the start/finish was located at the Rugby club where Race HQ was located and all the runners gathered at the start line. The hooter started and it wasn't long before the fast runners were screaming off. We did a half lap of the rugby pitch before leading out of the grounds and along a wide foot path along the canal/river. The sun gleaming down made it a very pretty mostly flat (it had the odd incline) route along the canal with rowers paddling a long. The path soon leads through the countryside and for the first 2 and half miles it was tarmac. I was wondering where the multi terrain was going to come into it. Not long after the first drink station appeared where I didn't take any water on mainly due to wearing my hydration race vest. I had learnt in the past in warm/hot weather that some times, drink stations just isn't enough for me.

Canal path

 Then the multi terrain came in to play! The route lead us up hill through a field, the climb was reasonably steep but it soon leveled out at the top. The ground turned from hard dirt track to a rocky lumpy one. Due to being multi terrain, I chose to go with a pair of my Inov 8 Roclite 295's instead of Road Shoes. I could've got away with road shoes, but I was glad on the lumpy rocky dirty part just to have that little bit of grip and traction.

This route soon lead us through some amazing corn type field along a track which headed towards the coast, with the sea in view it was breath taking. I think that to me is why I have learnt to slow down and enjoy races. Those going all out, focusing on PB's or trying to win sometimes miss out on the things that make events such as this type of views.

Some view!

 Unfortunately this wonderful view had to end as we turned right up well worn tractor track up another hill. By the time it was due to head down hill it was just over 3.7 miles and soon heading back down on tarmac through a farm back toward the canal. Just after 4 miles we hit the same water station as before.

We headed back along the canal path but the first part was on the opposite side to the outwards part. We turned and soon headed onto the path we started on. As I hit 4 and half miles I picked up my pace slightly, up until now I haven't really felt the run. I hadn't eaten since lunch, rushing about after work and shattered from early start also at work just made it feel a little off. However I upped my pace as I still wanted a nice strong finish. I started to over take other runners as I approached 5 miles and soon as we headed towards the last part towards the finish I turned it up. I crossed the line in just over 55 minutes which I was pretty happy with and deposit how I was feeling I had a really enjoyable run.

Finished

 Did I make the right choice of running in this event over the local 5k? Yes, for £10 I had a really beautiful course to run on, it was well organised, money went to charity (RNLI), a medal and a goody bag which included a bottle of beer which put Plymouth Half marathon to shame.

Goody bag

 It really was a good event, and one I recommend, to avoid potential disappoint next year I recommend pre entering. The event is obviously popular and will even especially if the weather is good once more may hit it's limit.

Kit choice for this event, X-Bionic Trick top, X-Bionic Running Shorts, X-Socks Speed Run 2.0 socks. I wore my Sunwise Canary Wharf sunglasses which were definitely needed. Inov 8 race ultra vest for hydration and Inov 8 Roclite 295's shoes.

So what's next? I'm off to Kos for a week and looking forward to running there especially as there are some nice looking mountain trails near my hotel which I will now call base camp. I arrive back in the Blighty at 3am to which on the way home I will be racing a 10 miler for event 22 of 37

Thank you for reading!

Half way through the year and I complete 20 events - Bristol 10K

So another busy week really, with the Beach 10K earlier in the week and two events this weekend!

I had to pop up to Shawbury, Shropshire to visit the in laws and celebrate a family member's 40th Wedding Anniversary. Knowing how busy with work and a well earnt family holiday in June was going to be, I had to fit in some more events before the end of the month. 

Shawbury which is just outside Shrewbury in Shropshire has a parkrun every Saturday. This is one I've already done before with my brother in law.

Event 19 - Shrewsbury parkrun. 

I won't go into too much detail about the event as I've already covered it before, however as I was running it alone (my brother in law Paul chickened out) I was able to run it for myself. I was going to set out comfortably and see how things go. 

The weather was perfect, and I set off. First mile was nice at around 8 min 30 mile pace. The next mile I picked up the pace again with around 8.15 min/mile pace and finish strong but not even blowing with 7.47 min/mile pace. 

Without giving it large I finished in 25 min 27 secs without blowing out of my arse.

The next morning meant I had to get up at 4.30am for the drive to Bristol so I could run in another event on the way home. Leaving at 5am allowed me enough time to get especially as they had closed roads of some made getting to parking a bit more of a pain.

Event 20 of 37 - Bristol 10K 

I entered this not long after I knew I had to go up country. It cost me £27 to enter, which for a 10K isn't the cheapest but it isn't that bad when you look at what is provided. about a week or so before the race, they sent me the race info pack which included my disposable timing chip, bib number, race info and bagage tag.

Race info booklet

I arrive at the park & ride which was the better option, than try to park in the city centre, although it was a bit of a nightmare with road closures getting there and arrived at the start just after 8am. According to the race info booklet the pen for waive 1 for white and red bib numbers opened at 8.30am. They lied like a hairy egg as they didn't let us in until 9.05am which only allowed 10 mins until the closure of the pen time. There was one other club member racing but alas I didn't see her before the race to get a club photo.

Start/Finish line

Waiting for pen to open!

Eventually I made it to the start pen for the red numbers. We were on the right side of the start the white were on the left. They gave you your coloured number based on the estimated time you put down for finishing. White & Elite were on the left side of the start line, who were starting bang on 9.30am. We were going a few minutes after the white had started with the yellow and green in waive 2 heading off at 9.45am. There were about 12,000 entrants altogether so this 10K wasn't a little local event. It was the Run Britain's 3 race in it's Grand Prix series. There were some top names racing including the Cornish Maid Emma Stepto and a couple of Kenyans.

Starting Pen

The race started and the Elite and white numbered runners were off. I was followed suit not long after and we headed outbound. The streets were full of supporters on either side of the route, where the atmosphere despite the over cast weather was great.

I felt my self taking off too fast down the first half mile. I hate doing that, and recently have been good not to. So I calmed down and settled into a comfortable pace.I was going to run comfortably and increase pace gently as I go along. I like a negative split and to finish strong. I enjoy events more that way compared to positive splits.

The route was pretty much flat with the odd slight incline here and there. It took you out towards the Clifton suspension bridge. As I got to 2 miles the elites already flying past the other way around 3/4 mile mark. They were shifting. We turned around at about 2 and 3/4 miles and soon hit a well stocked water station at 5k. Despite the a gentle spit of rain, the weather was still warm and sticky. I past through the short tunnel we came through on the out leg and the "Oggie Oggie Oggie" cheers rattle through the tunnel. 

After the 5K I continued with the race plan and kept a comfortable pace going depsite slightly increasing it each mile. 

Here are my splits:

1) 1m - 8:54(8:54/m) 
2) 1m - 8:57(8:57/m) 
3) 1m - 8:45(8:45/m) 
4) 1m - 8:25(8:25/m) 
5) 1m - 8:12(8:12/m)
6) 1m - 7:48(7:48/m) 
7) 0.31m - 2:22(7:36/m) 

As I entered back into the city centre the crowds and the atmosphere picked up again and lots of cheers were being given, I pulled over to the side as I ran and started giving as many high 5's to the children as possible. A lot had been standing out in the poor weather for a while now so wanted to give something back. 

I  soon made the last turn and down the finish straight with a sprintish (not full sprint due to amount of runners) until I crossed the line in 53.24 which all not a PB it was a season's best without really trying. It was a bit of a walk back to Millenuim square, along the way you picked up the various finishers items.

The event was very well organised, well marshalled, great atmosphere and well you look into it, worth the entrance fee. You received a nice medal, water during and after the race, space blanket, tech t-shirt (Plymouth Half you had to pay £18 for one on top of entrance fee!), a good goody bag with the usual fliers and tit bit including coconut water (which isn't cheap in the shops). So another event and a recommendation for this mass entrant 10K

Finished

Goody Bag

The kit I wore was X-Bionic "Trick Top & Running shorts, X-Socks Run Speed Two socks, Sunwise Canary Wharf Sunglasses. Shoe choice was my racing flats Brooks T7.

So that was event 19 & 20 of 37 which takes me over half way towards the target goal. Thank you for the continuing support as I type this I have raised currently just over £700 towards the £2,000 target.

If you fancy donating a little bit of money please do My Just Giving Page

Thank you for reading!