Defeated … but the hat was eventually earned.
Coast to Kosciuszko Ultramarathon (240km) 2017
Tim, myself, Chan and Az at the top of Mt Kosciuszko right on sunset - 9th Dec 2017
Two and a Bit Years In the Making
The story goes back a couple years really when I had submitted my race application entry in 2015. I was keen on crewing for Adam Connor during the entire year but after competing and completing the GNW miler in Sep ‘15 on no sleep, I thought let’s give this a crack and hopefully being non-technical, the event would suit me.
Then after hearing that some good friends at Northside Running Group (NRG) in Rocco, Robyn and Chantelle had entered at the last minute and we had all gained successful selection, the training began ramping up from the recent GNW event. Unfortunately for me, the very long runs on Saturday on road followed by a very long run Monday nights did not suit my body and I fell victim to a stress bone on the tibia and further running would have had seen fractures so I had to pull the pin 4 weeks out and was truly gutted to miss this event.
I had everything booked and paid for including the race entry so it was an expensive non-event, but I decided to make use of the accommodation and went down to watch my mates that year and I am glad I did to support them some way to their respective finishes and it gave me a good look at the course and some suffering they endured on the Saturday morning from the climb starting at Thredbo River.
I went to the presentation that year too on the Sunday morning and it really is an emotional and moving hour of your life, hearing the stories what people went through and have gone through their lives.
Move forward 12 months and the year was virtually written off with injuries. I harboured a slight chance of sneaking in a 100km trail race in Canberra in late September that year in a chance to re-apply, but the injuries would not recover and I decided that 2017 was going to to be the fresh year of running with hopefully better training strategies and adequate recovery times with fewer races so that I can be on the start line.
After restricting myself to just 4 races this year, including qualifiers at Coburg 24 hour track and GNW100km, I now had the task of getting to the start line in one piece. It seems like a simple task really, but there were the usual scares on the way. My right hamstring seemed to have tightened twice in the 8 weeks leading up to C2K, but with adequate rest in some weeks following the scares, I was right to go.
My training consisted of 11 out of the last 16 weeks leading up to C2K with weekly aggregates over the 100km mark and quite a few in the 105km-115km range. Some of this was on easy trail, dirt track around Centennial Park known as laps (getting my mind in gear) and also a two day trip on course at Big Jack and Smiggins Holes with fellow NRG mate, Alan Wheat. I had not prepared as extensive as this before and to be honest I felt pretty great leading into this event as my endurance was the best it has have been and the 3 week taper forced a little early due to hamstring tightness really meant I had reached the starting line fresh as I could be. I avoided speed work all campaign and did hills where I could so I felt I was ready for this.
Preparing and Trip To Eden
My crew consisted of Aaron (Az) Roberts - he has completed several multi-day adventure races including 6 days in Alaska, Tim Lyndon (C2K finisher last year and crew member 2015) and Chantelle O’Donoghue (C2K finisher in 2015-16, and crewed me superbly to a good result at GNW in September this year).
The crew was a good mix and being all friends having met at NRG, meant for some good times. Alan also had all NRG members on his crew and all had completed the race in the past year or two (Robyn Bruins, Adam Darwin and Joe Hedges).
Tim, Joe, Alan and I drove down to Eden at about lunchtime on Wed, allowing for seven hours or so with pie shop breaks and some amusing banter in the car especially as the Poms were losing the second Ashes test. We arrived at the beachside holiday cabins at Eden that late afternoon and had time for dinner at the Fisherman’s Club and met Jane Trumper (Adam Connor was crewing) and Roger Hanney and their respective crews for dinner and the sunset at Eden was great.
We used my car, the Nissan X-Trail. Did the job (as it did for Robyn in 2015) and I had my running gear, food requirements and first aid, etc in stackable drawers as you can see on the left.
The Thursday at Eden entailed some freshly cooked breakfast at Sprout (highly recommended), Coles food shopping for last minute food items and utensils and resting back at the beach holiday park and watching the highly amusing and scantily clad crew members mix it up for a 7km race known as Cossie to Coast. I think enough pictures have done the rounds on social media for that event. The night finished with the formal race briefing over a buffet dinner at the Fisherman’s Club, receipt of race number bib and official weighing. I was shocked to read I was about 4 or 5 kilos over what I had been all the last two weeks, but other competitors were in the same boat, so we definitely put it down to ‘dodgy’ cheap electronic scales being used.
Bed time was 9:30pm pre-race night. It took me about 30 mins to get to sleep and I found myself awake at about 1:45am. Sans a few nervous energy bathroom visits after waking up, I found it impossible to head back to sleep, so as per usual on a big race event morning, it was going to all happen on less than 4 hours of sleep.
The crew were busy packing the rest of the car very early morning on Friday and we quickly found ourselves at Boydtown Beach just south of Eden where the event kicks off. It was a beautiful morning and the sun was itching to get up in some areas.
All lining up at the start on Friday morning at Eden (Coast) I’m on the far left with Alan next to me.
Not a bad sunrise happening there - thanks Tim for these awesome pics.
Alan and I Alan (right) and I touching the sea before the journey to Kosci…..
Al and I - a few minutes to starting time.
Tim, Chan, myself and Az - The DD’s - Doug’s Dynamo’s
…..and Away We Go….Friday 5:30am from Boydtown Beach, Eden.
It was a simple 10 to 1 style countdown as we headed off on our journey. I started on the far right and wanted to walk off the beach nice and easy with no sand getting in the shoes so I think I achieved that task easily enough. Then the crossing of the Princes Highway before we took to the trail for a few kms including a steep climb and then that found itself winding down to a road where it would be a case of hard packed road for quite a while now. We passed through 3 aid stations during the first 25km and I was carrying just a handheld water bottle with a gel and taking fruit and electrolytes from the mini aid stations along with way. During this stage, I ran on and off with Alan and said hello to many other runners to get their feelings of the event ahead of them and to learn about their training. I then chatted with John Yoon whom I met in Coburg 24hr where he won with 225km and he mentioned his training was very strong and after learning of his schedule, I suddenly felt underdone compared to the likes of him! Still, I was here to finish, no specific time goals but had lower goals where time zones of mid to low 30-35 hour levels may have been on my mind.
I passed a runner, Adam Brodie who was carrying a full Salomon pack it seemed during these aid station sections. He or more importantly, his crew, must have not read the race documents correctly. Mandatory gear was only required for the summit and not the entire race. Poor guy, I felt for him, but Paul Every the Race Director managed to take it off his hands some 20km in I hear.
I caught up to Alan at about 15km into the day and we ran together to Towamba the 25km mark where the local school puts on a breakfast BBQ with items for sale going towards their major fundraiser event for the year. We reached this location at 2hrs 43mins so the pace was nice and cruisy and certainly no taxing moments at all previously, power walking all the hills in sight as strictly instructed from Chan and Tim!
The bathrooms were non-existent to my surprise here so I held on for any nature break until Cathcart or sooner at Rocky Hall if there were facilities there. The more I ran, the less I needed to go for a ‘longer nature break’ it turned out, so it must have been early race nerves.
Alan forged ahead somewhere during this next section and I didn’t see him again for many kms ahead. I noted he took off on the downhill sections where I was plodding along conserving energy for the following day including the last 50km uphill on Kosciuszko Road.
The weather was really ideal for running at this stage past the school and heading to Rocky Hall checkpoint at 50km. Cloud cover, a couple of small drops of rain. I had my running singlet on still but changed into a black technical running shirt at Cathcart for memory. Heading into Rocky Hall though was warm with the open plains and fields and direct sunlight. The crew cooled me down with water and I grabbed some balm for the body to eliminate any chafing in the painful areas. I continued to do this all race and can proudly say I did not sustain any chafing at all - other than my lips, but even after putting lip balm on all the time you are always going to get some burning or issues there with the wind and exposure of the sun.
My crew gave me my music about 35km into the race and I put the headband on (speakers inside the headband) and listened to the old playlist until about the 100km mark really. After that, I ditched it and then chatted or perhaps grunted to my crew members when they were allowed to pace me after 8:30pm.
I got to Big Jack and Chantelle joined me for the 6.5km climb up. Chan was holding all the drinks etc in her Salomon Pack and scoffed at me if I even attempted to hold anything. We made good progress up here, power-walking it all and overtook two people. Once at the top, I had some more food and set off for Cathcart the 70km checkpoint feeling quite good and plenty in reserve. My crew knew of my needs at Cathcart - it was simple, two Streets Calippo Ice Blocks.
Arriving at Cathcart - with Tim providing some feedback.
It was quite windy along the main road into Cathcart and I passed Sabina Hamaty along here and also Pam Muston for memory but I was still taking it relatively easy. I needed a long nature break finally at Cathcart and after eating some deliciously made salad sandwich thanks to Az, I was off on the road again munching into my first Ice Block. I then passed Greg Thomson and as soon as he saw my Calippo, he was immediately on the phone to his crew to instruct his crew they must get him some Calippo’s back at Cathcart. I polished off my second one not long after the dirt road turn to Cooma where Az and Tim were doing some burpees as part of their one burpee for every km I ran challenge - crazy cats.
The next section leading to the Monaro Highway crossing is exposed with the sun and wind and although nice surroundings with fields of horses and animals, I found it a bit tough at that stage for some reason. Other than cool liquid items, I was struggling to eat solids, well, enough of them anyway.
I suddenly saw Alan’s crew and their white van on the road ahead and then noticed Alan in his yellow GNW shirt. It was great to catch up with him again and turns out he had a 20 minute break to contend with a nasty blister or two where the race medic Matt, patched him up nicely and he was rocking to go again. By this stage I think I instructed my crew to stop at about 5km intervals up the road for me so I was due for a crew stop soon so that brief running stage with Al did not last for long unfortunately as he went ahead.
I got over the Monaro and by that stage two or three people would have passed me. Eventually I had to call for the crew at about 85km up a hill where I had developed a very sore right little toe - turns out it was a blister. Tim and Chan attended to that thankfully and got me back up after a rest in the chair and after eating some food and I was now heading for the next major point - the dead tree at 102.7km.
First major crew stop - attending to blister.
I think the crew were still enjoying themselves by this stage, well the photos below suggest they were. The crew for Kirrily Dear - Gillian from NRG and Karen clearly were. I remember I reached the train track crossing and they had their music on and dancing for a good 500m or more next to me as I shuffled down the road - quite funny and they must have had too much energy, either that or at the poppy seeds yet again!
Rap Album Cover Pic ? - as James O’D has mentioned !
Chips and Dip anyone
The final stop before the dead tree saw me put on a long sleeve thermal top and then put my black t-shirt back over the top of that as it was starting to get cool especially as my pace was not that flash. I kept power walking the hills and shuffling the flat sections.
I noticed that the thermal I had on was extremely tight especially around my right arm, so tight it was in fact hurting. I eventually got to the dead tree and gave it the ritual kiss and then sat down for some lovely soup that the crew had heated up. This was much welcomed and perked me up a little. I did complain of the thermal though and we reefed it off straight away and put on my more comfier thermal - that felt much better ! The after effects of having that tight thermal on only for few kms was significant, the right arm was feeling tight, sore, compressed and eventually I had to start running shaking my right arm a lot and leaning a bit to try and iron out the issue. Most unexpected to be honest and for some reason that thermal must have shrunk. Anyway, it will be cut up and be used as bandages or compression wrapping from now! Turns out the circulation of the arm must have been restricted in some way later on as my right hand and fingers were puffy in the colder weather from Saturday late afternoon until early Sunday morning.
“Pucker up” tree
Soup at the tree - thanks so much crew, needed that.
After soup was consumed, I felt better than the last 20km that was for sure. I was passed by three or four people including Kevin ‘Brick’ Heaton during that section and I think I clawed back a few spots after the tree and leading onto the long Snowy Mountains Highway road section. I remember Tim saying this was my bread and butter now and I sort of felt it was too, feeling more confident and upping the pace. Brick mentioned I was leaning to one side when I passed him. I explained it was because of my arm feeling so tight and sore. So I tried to over compensate when he said that and next time when he flew past me again he said I was leaning the other way now. I had to laugh - I didn’t have a mirror ! Anyway, I tried to neutralise the posture I think it sort of worked from there on as we were heading next into Dalgetty.
Sunset on the way to Dalgetty
Az in the back trying to get some sleep before shift one of pacing come Friday 8:30pm
Just a few minutes later, Az joined me for the first section of pacing into Dalgetty at night.
It was bang on 8:30pm Friday, 15 hours had lapsed and we had seen Paul and Diane the RD’s come past in their car about 5-10 minutes earlier. Az donned his hi-viz vest, headlamp, Salomon pack full of drinks, food and good banter as we set up for the night time activities. We were trying to power walk the hills and shuffle the road side white poles with one section run, one section power walk. This continued for quite a while. I think Az sighted a bull mating with a cow. Yep, he sighted it. The noise was enough to give it away.
Tim took the next pacing duties after 2 hours and we began as per the movements with Az. Making reasonable progress, Tim was urging me on and doing a great job. I was feeling rather tired at this time, probably the lack of sleep the night before not helping, but I kept going until another 60 or 90 minutes before I decided to have a sleep in the car. Looking back on it now it was probably the wrong move and too early. I actually don’t think I got any significant sleep as I was in the front seat and a little uncomfortable there and there was a car in front with hazard lights flashing so I struggled to shut my eyes. Still it was a rest of some 20 minutes at least from the constant grind so perhaps it helped a little.
Some nighttime selfies with Timbo
Chantelle joined me for pacing and we were chatting away and picking off every second pole for shuffling and power walking. The time seemed to pass so quick, it was so nice running with Chan. We picked out some stars in the night sky and Chan was telling me this was where Ann was pacing her last year. She mentioned that Ann was on the journey again this year with us and that she would be looking out for us, I totally agreed and will expand on that a bit later.
No prizes for guessing the location
We were approaching the lights of Dalgetty, well there are not that many lights but in the darkness of those open fields, you can certainly notice them and the 50kmh speed signs as you enter the small town. I mentioned to Chan that my big right toe was a bit sore and had only gotten that way the last couple of kms. We decided that the medics could check it out when I sat down for warm soup outside the Dalgetty Hall. I was about 4 hours ahead of cut off time of 6:30am for this checkpoint, some 149km into the race. The stop was quite a long one for me. I didn’t want to go into the hall to avoid staying there too long, but I had to take a longer nature break (Tim was checking on me so I didn’t fall asleep) and Matt the medic attended to my big right toe as I had a sizeable blood blister on top of the toe and he drained it and patched it really well. Just before I left the checkpoint I complained that the little toe on the right foot was again not feeling right so Tim took off my shoe and adjusted the Injinji toe fitting socks again. It was my third pair I had put on I think at this stage and the last pair I had handy in the drawers. We also saw Stephen Bowers come into the checkpoint and he wasn’t feeling all that great and had to clear out his stomach I hear and refresh. He did super well to come back in this event and actually finished a position or two ahead of me.
Az and I took off from Dalgetty and I actually had some spring in my step. We covered the first 3km-4km quite swifty and I think I ran most of that section. We then saw Joey Ward pacing his runner and they were enjoying the music and the night sky. Az and I turned off our lights and the stars over the ranges were awesome, definitely a highlight of the run and Az and I were enjoying the time along the quiet road.
I was still making good progress through here and Chan was driving the crew car and Tim was having a well earned long sleep as he was due to pace me next whilst Chan got some needed rest. Due to the cool weather at 4am in the morning around here I don’t think my food intake was that great during this section. I probably suffered for that in the next 2 hours. Looking back on the race now after a week or so, this is where I should have had my 30 minute sleep instead of attempting it earlier. My body had been awake for at least 24 hours now. Whilst it was still dark before the early signs of dawn light, my body would have adjusted better if I had actually slept right here right now. Most people say once the light is up you feel re-born and re-generated with energy, but I am the exact opposite if doing this on no sleep. That is exactly what happened to me here and also at GNW with Gillian pacing me in 2015. I turned into a zombie with eyes closing and very incoherent.
Tim took over the pacing at the bottom of the Beloka range climb. It was now light all around and I had some No Dose and Coca Cola here to try and wake up. Tim gave me the walking poles to try and get up Beloka. It is 2.5km of steep 7%-8% average gradient I think. Tim even got out the portable speaker and played some Billy Birmingham aka the 12th Man to try and cheer me up. I managed a chuckle or two early on but by the time I reached the top of the climb I was a mess. Swaying across the road apparently and could not swallow food.
Into the car I went for a sleep. Chan was also napping too. I was out of it within a few breaths and next thing I woke up and the sun was bright and warm and I could feel it in the car. I stumbled out of the car and was told I was out of it for a good 30 mins. I got some soup into me thanks to the crew (they were doing a brilliant job) and Chan had a quiet chat with me. I remember feeling nauseous but was still trying to get my bearings. I was also dizzy which was probably not ideal but I think the crew were hoping once I had my soup and got on my feet I may be good to move once again. Chan reminded me just to keep moving one step in front of the other.
Chan then had her turn to pace me as I was beginning to wake up. The sun was quite warm but I had my thermal on still for memory. I was beginning to feel better again. The sleep and liquid food intake must have helped. We had a good old time descending most of the way into Jindabyne. It was great seeing the other crews on the side of the road again and I think I was at least holding my pace and place and not getting overtaken by too many people. I actually had no idea on how many people past me during that last interesting hour or so, nor did I care to be honest, finishing and getting that Akubra was my only goal.
The run into Jindy was getting warm and Chan did most of the pacing from the wake up spot with Tim a little stint early on. Thanks so much to both of you for your awesome ability to keep a smile on my face. We got onto the flat sections heading into Jindy when Chan and I got the fright of our lives as a cattle or blue heeler dog barked its head off at us with no warning when it passed us in a ute. Literally we jumped to the right into the bushes in fright !
Almost at the Jindy downhill section now and the sun certainly had some bite and it was only 10am or so. I think I asked Az if he was having a coffee from Jindy soon and that I didn’t mind having a brew right now as I was feeling better and ready for the long climb ahead up to the Ski fields. Unfortunately Az said he was not having one so I got given a full No-Dose tablet instead - caffeine without the style it seemed. We got to the toilets at Jindy where everyone had to attend to their own bowel matters and headed off through the caravan park pathway. Unfortunately the tide ? (or just water level) on the lake was up and poor Chan took me via two short incorrect paths to get me around. It was all fine though, time was no issue for me at that stage and I was feeling ok. Renae Brock and her pacer were joining us now for this stage. We eventually found the checkpoint at Jindy and Az then took the reigns for pacing.
The sun was definitely getting warmer and with the high viz vests required for the climb in the warm sun on the main roads, drinking fluids became a high importance once again. Az and Tim surprised me with a delightful Calippo here for the road section. My eyes lit up, it was just what I required. I began running a bit more here with Az and actually felt reasonably good. The flies were bugging me and Tim and Az sprayed some repellent on the back of my neck and Tim gave me his big yellow wide brim ‘Venn’ style cricket hat to keep the sun off my noggin’ and to cool it down a notch.
Past Jindy, feeling really good post Calippo and preparing for the climb with some anti-fly zen
All was going rather well. We had moved quite swiftly for the next few kms and could see the Thredbo River crossing and Az ran ahead to get some supplies from the car. I was moving ok down the hill to the crossing. Made the crossing and I think I made it by running about 100m past the bridge and passed under one of the very few trees for shade for the next 50km when suddenly I felt a sharp twinge or pain behind my right knee, on the upper calf. I hadn’t felt such a pain all event and knew something just gave way. I tried walking it off for a bit and told Az my calf was hurting. Unfortunately when I tried to break into a trot again, the pain was very sharp. I had no idea what had happened especially as I was starting to feel energetic and looking forward to actually making some good progress on this monster 13km climb ahead.
I’ll continue with the rest of the event in a moment, but since last weekend the calf has been just as sore if not more, so I got Cam my physio and also a GP to assess. Unfortunately it is a tear of the calf but we are also hoping to rule out anything like blood circulation issues where I will know for sure early next week. GP thinks it should not be of concern and I agree but the pain in the calf certainly is sharper than what I have experienced previously. At least the injury will ensure a much needed or forced rest is in order before next year and whatever campaign I set myself.
So having the leg in a fair bit of pain and feeling energetic compared to where I was some 5-6 hours ago, it was correct to say I felt dejected. Defeated also, but not totally nailed down to the ground. I think, in fact I am sure the crew knew this and could see that I was not happy. Not much I could do though other than just to try and keep power walking as much as I could. The impact of running was too much for the leg but the power walking with less impact was bearable and on the pain threshold was about a six as Chan and I kept monitoring throughout the remainder of the event. Everyone told me to keep moving ahead and that I was doing well.
It was certainly warm on the climb. I had the water spray bottle out every 2km-3km as the crew were now stopping this regularly. We saw Joe Gallaher and Steve Bell near the National Park Entry Gates and it was great to get their support. My crew were really great through here. I can imagine the time on their hands between seeing me was now extensive but they were ready with everything I requested each time. I had to keep eating and drink with the weather quite warm and given my length of time out on course. I don’t think I was winning any awards for technique and noticed a few limps in a photo or video or two post race. But the show must go on and finish to get the hat. Time for cut-offs at this point was still a good 4-5 hours ahead of schedule even though Jan passed me with his brisk walking around the Guthega turn off point.
Hopalong Cassidy
Tim pointing me in the right direction - I might be half smiling here
The afternoon light was beginning to filter lightly and a couple of cooler air sections were upon us as I reached the Charlottes Pass (CP) 5km sign, oh that is a sign I was looking for. I got into my thermals during a brief stop at the crew car to save time for when I finally got to CP. This would also assist the crew members with time. I could tell Az was getting a little frustrated and watchful of time. He wanted to summit in light. For some reason (perhaps it was Tim telling him...hahaha) Az thought the climb to the summit from CP was technical and he didn’t fancy that stuff at nightfall. I didn’t want to sound cocky but I knew what was involved to head up to the summit and was still reasonably confident of getting up to the top without the use of headlamps. The descent would be another story for sure, but I was confident in my ability to get up there despite the inability to run at all. Anyway, Az was sort of ‘riding me’ here, asking how long it took to eat a bowl of noodles and I probably gave him some short sharp answers back at this stage, but given the end result I’m sure we were both very happy with the summit time of day in the end really.
We saw a white van up ahead not long after the CP5km sign and I knew it was Alan and his crew. He had already finished and had stopped up ahead where he saw our crew car. I gave him a quick hug and congratulated him on a magnificent performance. This guy has come a long way in the past 8-9 months. UTA 100km, GNW miler (both with excellent first up times) and now this monster in 35hrs and a bit. What achievements ! You should be proud buddy - or should I say neighbour soon, the training journeys were great mate and look forward to many runs with you in the future.
Adam, Joe and Robyn and Al went back to shower and change and have a celebration beer or two before actually coming back up to see me finish. I cannot thank them enough for that, very much appreciated and enjoyable to have them along for the epic event.
Album Cover #2 for the ‘da mob
Something special coming up ?
The last two kms up to the CP area were relentless with a good strong gradient and I felt a little warm and actually spent a bit of energy here. I got weighed but I was making every excuse under the sun before I hopped on the scales that I had so many extra layers on to make me weigh more compared to my thongs and t-shirt and board shorts at Eden on Thursday night. Geez, I may have even mentioned I had fake tan on to weigh me down more - actually a lie, but I am sure Chan is having a chuckle reading this. Chan and I began the summit and Az and Tim caught up a few minutes later as they were getting final preparations and food and water ready in their packs. We made pretty good walking pace progress despite the leg. We saw Jane and Adam C at about 5km in as they were making it back down from the summit. Finish number eight for Jane, amazing and she said get to the top for the last bit of light. Yes that was the goal still and I can tell you the sunlight was amazing for the last 1km-2km to the top. The sun was shining on the snow peaked mountains on one side and then in your eyes on some corners, it was so clear and the air was still, no breeze or wind whatsoever. Near the top we saw Stephen’s crew and we all congratulated Stephen or a remarkable effort. I also requested kindly from Andy Hewat the chief race a medic a hot chocolate for the descent where he was perched just before the snow section where he cuts in some man made steps to assist the runners. Truly an amazing man with dedication to the event.
We made the summit ! Sunsetting in approximately 3-5 mins time. Timing could not be more spot on. I think Az was pleased, I hope! Indeed he was, as I was too. Probably not beaming on the outside, just satisfied within myself that I got to the top of Australia in sunlight and the fact that I kept forging ahead despite some issues.
I was somewhat not aware of what was happening around me as I was standing and then sitting on the monument at the summit. Chan had a silk or cotton bag sprinkling what appeared to be dust all over the rocks on the peak. Again, after having spent 38 or 39 hours on the go, my mind was not picking up things but I found out after the event that Chan had scattered some of Ann’s ashes over the mountain. Ann was a dear friend to us all at NRG and an extremely close friend to Chan. She passed away in a tragic road accident where she was on her usual Sunday morning cycling training with some friends of ours one morning. We were actually enjoying some fine times just the night before Ann's passing with her at a post 2016 C2K party at Chan and James’ place. It must have been very emotional for Chan to bring her ashes along. Ann had crewed for Chan both in 2015 and 2016 so it was such a special moment to do that at the high peak of our Australian land.
The crew and I spent a bit of time on the peak, taking in the full brilliant light and views and many snaps. The photos below are an example of the amazing time of day it was, purely magical, almost unbelievable.
Andy the chief race medic, makes these stairs in the snow with a shovel !
Monument to climb up on in the background amongst amazing sunset light. Tim and Chan your pics were amazing, thank you.
No words for the next few pics, except to say simply brilliant to be up there with my awesome crew.
We then decided to descend and saw Nikki Burke and her crew of Blue Dog, Tanya from NRG and Nikki’s hubby Cam, almost ready for the final few hundred metres for their ascent. It began to get much cooler now and quickly, as the sun went down. The air was much colder and a touch of breeze coming through. I gladly accepted my hot chocolate from Andy as we put our headlamps on and navigated the descent down. It felt like the pace was much quicker, but no, I still could not physically run but the power walking did have some zing in it.
Some of us stopped at the highest toilets in the land for a quick nature break but then it was non-stop to the 8km finish. We got to the Snowy River bridge crossing rather quickly and I was trying to count off the poles to the finish. It seemed to take forever to finally to get to the 1km marker. I thought we were moving at a good speed. Strava tells me otherwise. Luckily we had enough speed to fend off anyone passing us on the complete 18km return leg from CP. Not that it was about placings now, it was about simply crossing that line. The crew went ahead with 100m or so to go and left me to finish the event on my own. I think I managed the slowest of shuffles where I could, to cross that line. It was done in 40 hours and 53 mins. All over ! I was relieved to state the obvious. Not overly excited or tears of joy, just thankful I had made it. I will be the first to say I was a little disappointed with my time, but it was a huge learning experience and also getting the calf injury did not help at a time when I started to feel strong. In the end, I had to remind myself it was always about no pressure, no time goals and seeing it through to get that well earned Akubra hat and that is exactly what I did.
I must thank Alan and his crew yet again for seeing me finish and providing some pizza. Great job all round in getting Al to the finish so swiftly. The ride in the passenger seat back to the accommodation at Jindy post race was interesting seeing on the road - owls, wallabies, foxes, wombats and swerving to avoid a kangaroo and that was all after a change of driver due to fuzzy eyes.
My right hand lost its swelling by the next morning and we assembled in the presentation area to hear Paul speak and provide snippets of every entrants race or story before they were presented with their Akubra’s or C2K race pins.
In finishing I must say and express my sincere thank you and provide hugs to my crew for getting me through this. They all complemented each other in so many ways with their own styles and I hope they enjoyed themselves. Tim - you provided the amusing comments just when needed. Some comments not fit for G or PG consumption here and I think some heard them at the dinner on the Sunday night at Banjo’s in Jindy. Your past experience and wisdom certainly helped me through it. To Chan - you crewing at GNW was superb for me with great results so I had no hesitations or doubts in asking you again to crew and you did not let me know down in any way and in fact excelled way past the expectations. You helped me big time to get out of that slump at the top of Beloka and I cannot thank you enough. Finally to Az - my first first crew member picked and the man to see through tough moments. We had some great moments going through the ranges past Dalegetty without the lights watching the stars. Great to be sharing that with you buddy. Sure we could both feel the frustrations heading up towards CP on late Saturday afternoon light, but we did it. I think the tough times got us through and kept us both on our game and we were awarded with the most amazing summit time of day that anyone can wish for.
The event is purely magical for non-commercial, pure runner/crew experience. It is a brutally tough run but I would be keen to tackle it again. Would definitely do some things different next time if ever given the opportunity but I think crewing may be an option next year instead of competing. The volunteers and organisers are simply amazing. You cannot meet nicer people involved.
So…….It’s a wrap for 2017 in the event circles. I will be resting the calf and enjoying some much needed time away from the running shoes.
Al and I - a few minutes to starting time.
Tim, Chan, myself and Az - The DD’s - Doug’s Dynamo’s
…..and Away We Go….Friday 5:30am from Boydtown Beach, Eden.
It was a simple 10 to 1 style countdown as we headed off on our journey. I started on the far right and wanted to walk off the beach nice and easy with no sand getting in the shoes so I think I achieved that task easily enough. Then the crossing of the Princes Highway before we took to the trail for a few kms including a steep climb and then that found itself winding down to a road where it would be a case of hard packed road for quite a while now. We passed through 3 aid stations during the first 25km and I was carrying just a handheld water bottle with a gel and taking fruit and electrolytes from the mini aid stations along with way. During this stage, I ran on and off with Alan and said hello to many other runners to get their feelings of the event ahead of them and to learn about their training. I then chatted with John Yoon whom I met in Coburg 24hr where he won with 225km and he mentioned his training was very strong and after learning of his schedule, I suddenly felt underdone compared to the likes of him! Still, I was here to finish, no specific time goals but had lower goals where time zones of mid to low 30-35 hour levels may have been on my mind.
I passed a runner, Adam Brodie who was carrying a full Salomon pack it seemed during these aid station sections. He or more importantly, his crew, must have not read the race documents correctly. Mandatory gear was only required for the summit and not the entire race. Poor guy, I felt for him, but Paul Every the Race Director managed to take it off his hands some 20km in I hear.
I caught up to Alan at about 15km into the day and we ran together to Towamba the 25km mark where the local school puts on a breakfast BBQ with items for sale going towards their major fundraiser event for the year. We reached this location at 2hrs 43mins so the pace was nice and cruisy and certainly no taxing moments at all previously, power walking all the hills in sight as strictly instructed from Chan and Tim!
The bathrooms were non-existent to my surprise here so I held on for any nature break until Cathcart or sooner at Rocky Hall if there were facilities there. The more I ran, the less I needed to go for a ‘longer nature break’ it turned out, so it must have been early race nerves.
Alan forged ahead somewhere during this next section and I didn’t see him again for many kms ahead. I noted he took off on the downhill sections where I was plodding along conserving energy for the following day including the last 50km uphill on Kosciuszko Road.
The weather was really ideal for running at this stage past the school and heading to Rocky Hall checkpoint at 50km. Cloud cover, a couple of small drops of rain. I had my running singlet on still but changed into a black technical running shirt at Cathcart for memory. Heading into Rocky Hall though was warm with the open plains and fields and direct sunlight. The crew cooled me down with water and I grabbed some balm for the body to eliminate any chafing in the painful areas. I continued to do this all race and can proudly say I did not sustain any chafing at all - other than my lips, but even after putting lip balm on all the time you are always going to get some burning or issues there with the wind and exposure of the sun.
My crew gave me my music about 35km into the race and I put the headband on (speakers inside the headband) and listened to the old playlist until about the 100km mark really. After that, I ditched it and then chatted or perhaps grunted to my crew members when they were allowed to pace me after 8:30pm.
I got to Big Jack and Chantelle joined me for the 6.5km climb up. Chan was holding all the drinks etc in her Salomon Pack and scoffed at me if I even attempted to hold anything. We made good progress up here, power-walking it all and overtook two people. Once at the top, I had some more food and set off for Cathcart the 70km checkpoint feeling quite good and plenty in reserve. My crew knew of my needs at Cathcart - it was simple, two Streets Calippo Ice Blocks.
Arriving at Cathcart - with Tim providing some feedback.
It was quite windy along the main road into Cathcart and I passed Sabina Hamaty along here and also Pam Muston for memory but I was still taking it relatively easy. I needed a long nature break finally at Cathcart and after eating some deliciously made salad sandwich thanks to Az, I was off on the road again munching into my first Ice Block. I then passed Greg Thomson and as soon as he saw my Calippo, he was immediately on the phone to his crew to instruct his crew they must get him some Calippo’s back at Cathcart. I polished off my second one not long after the dirt road turn to Cooma where Az and Tim were doing some burpees as part of their one burpee for every km I ran challenge - crazy cats.
The next section leading to the Monaro Highway crossing is exposed with the sun and wind and although nice surroundings with fields of horses and animals, I found it a bit tough at that stage for some reason. Other than cool liquid items, I was struggling to eat solids, well, enough of them anyway.
I suddenly saw Alan’s crew and their white van on the road ahead and then noticed Alan in his yellow GNW shirt. It was great to catch up with him again and turns out he had a 20 minute break to contend with a nasty blister or two where the race medic Matt, patched him up nicely and he was rocking to go again. By this stage I think I instructed my crew to stop at about 5km intervals up the road for me so I was due for a crew stop soon so that brief running stage with Al did not last for long unfortunately as he went ahead.
I got over the Monaro and by that stage two or three people would have passed me. Eventually I had to call for the crew at about 85km up a hill where I had developed a very sore right little toe - turns out it was a blister. Tim and Chan attended to that thankfully and got me back up after a rest in the chair and after eating some food and I was now heading for the next major point - the dead tree at 102.7km.
First major crew stop - attending to blister.
I think the crew were still enjoying themselves by this stage, well the photos below suggest they were. The crew for Kirrily Dear - Gillian from NRG and Karen clearly were. I remember I reached the train track crossing and they had their music on and dancing for a good 500m or more next to me as I shuffled down the road - quite funny and they must have had too much energy, either that or at the poppy seeds yet again!
Rap Album Cover Pic ? - as James O’D has mentioned !
Chips and Dip anyone
The final stop before the dead tree saw me put on a long sleeve thermal top and then put my black t-shirt back over the top of that as it was starting to get cool especially as my pace was not that flash. I kept power walking the hills and shuffling the flat sections.
I noticed that the thermal I had on was extremely tight especially around my right arm, so tight it was in fact hurting. I eventually got to the dead tree and gave it the ritual kiss and then sat down for some lovely soup that the crew had heated up. This was much welcomed and perked me up a little. I did complain of the thermal though and we reefed it off straight away and put on my more comfier thermal - that felt much better ! The after effects of having that tight thermal on only for few kms was significant, the right arm was feeling tight, sore, compressed and eventually I had to start running shaking my right arm a lot and leaning a bit to try and iron out the issue. Most unexpected to be honest and for some reason that thermal must have shrunk. Anyway, it will be cut up and be used as bandages or compression wrapping from now! Turns out the circulation of the arm must have been restricted in some way later on as my right hand and fingers were puffy in the colder weather from Saturday late afternoon until early Sunday morning.
“Pucker up” tree
Soup at the tree - thanks so much crew, needed that.
After soup was consumed, I felt better than the last 20km that was for sure. I was passed by three or four people including Kevin ‘Brick’ Heaton during that section and I think I clawed back a few spots after the tree and leading onto the long Snowy Mountains Highway road section. I remember Tim saying this was my bread and butter now and I sort of felt it was too, feeling more confident and upping the pace. Brick mentioned I was leaning to one side when I passed him. I explained it was because of my arm feeling so tight and sore. So I tried to over compensate when he said that and next time when he flew past me again he said I was leaning the other way now. I had to laugh - I didn’t have a mirror ! Anyway, I tried to neutralise the posture I think it sort of worked from there on as we were heading next into Dalgetty.
Sunset on the way to Dalgetty
Az in the back trying to get some sleep before shift one of pacing come Friday 8:30pm
Just a few minutes later, Az joined me for the first section of pacing into Dalgetty at night.
It was bang on 8:30pm Friday, 15 hours had lapsed and we had seen Paul and Diane the RD’s come past in their car about 5-10 minutes earlier. Az donned his hi-viz vest, headlamp, Salomon pack full of drinks, food and good banter as we set up for the night time activities. We were trying to power walk the hills and shuffle the road side white poles with one section run, one section power walk. This continued for quite a while. I think Az sighted a bull mating with a cow. Yep, he sighted it. The noise was enough to give it away.
Tim took the next pacing duties after 2 hours and we began as per the movements with Az. Making reasonable progress, Tim was urging me on and doing a great job. I was feeling rather tired at this time, probably the lack of sleep the night before not helping, but I kept going until another 60 or 90 minutes before I decided to have a sleep in the car. Looking back on it now it was probably the wrong move and too early. I actually don’t think I got any significant sleep as I was in the front seat and a little uncomfortable there and there was a car in front with hazard lights flashing so I struggled to shut my eyes. Still it was a rest of some 20 minutes at least from the constant grind so perhaps it helped a little.
Some nighttime selfies with Timbo
Chantelle joined me for pacing and we were chatting away and picking off every second pole for shuffling and power walking. The time seemed to pass so quick, it was so nice running with Chan. We picked out some stars in the night sky and Chan was telling me this was where Ann was pacing her last year. She mentioned that Ann was on the journey again this year with us and that she would be looking out for us, I totally agreed and will expand on that a bit later.
No prizes for guessing the location
We were approaching the lights of Dalgetty, well there are not that many lights but in the darkness of those open fields, you can certainly notice them and the 50kmh speed signs as you enter the small town. I mentioned to Chan that my big right toe was a bit sore and had only gotten that way the last couple of kms. We decided that the medics could check it out when I sat down for warm soup outside the Dalgetty Hall. I was about 4 hours ahead of cut off time of 6:30am for this checkpoint, some 149km into the race. The stop was quite a long one for me. I didn’t want to go into the hall to avoid staying there too long, but I had to take a longer nature break (Tim was checking on me so I didn’t fall asleep) and Matt the medic attended to my big right toe as I had a sizeable blood blister on top of the toe and he drained it and patched it really well. Just before I left the checkpoint I complained that the little toe on the right foot was again not feeling right so Tim took off my shoe and adjusted the Injinji toe fitting socks again. It was my third pair I had put on I think at this stage and the last pair I had handy in the drawers. We also saw Stephen Bowers come into the checkpoint and he wasn’t feeling all that great and had to clear out his stomach I hear and refresh. He did super well to come back in this event and actually finished a position or two ahead of me.
Az and I took off from Dalgetty and I actually had some spring in my step. We covered the first 3km-4km quite swifty and I think I ran most of that section. We then saw Joey Ward pacing his runner and they were enjoying the music and the night sky. Az and I turned off our lights and the stars over the ranges were awesome, definitely a highlight of the run and Az and I were enjoying the time along the quiet road.
I was still making good progress through here and Chan was driving the crew car and Tim was having a well earned long sleep as he was due to pace me next whilst Chan got some needed rest. Due to the cool weather at 4am in the morning around here I don’t think my food intake was that great during this section. I probably suffered for that in the next 2 hours. Looking back on the race now after a week or so, this is where I should have had my 30 minute sleep instead of attempting it earlier. My body had been awake for at least 24 hours now. Whilst it was still dark before the early signs of dawn light, my body would have adjusted better if I had actually slept right here right now. Most people say once the light is up you feel re-born and re-generated with energy, but I am the exact opposite if doing this on no sleep. That is exactly what happened to me here and also at GNW with Gillian pacing me in 2015. I turned into a zombie with eyes closing and very incoherent.
Tim took over the pacing at the bottom of the Beloka range climb. It was now light all around and I had some No Dose and Coca Cola here to try and wake up. Tim gave me the walking poles to try and get up Beloka. It is 2.5km of steep 7%-8% average gradient I think. Tim even got out the portable speaker and played some Billy Birmingham aka the 12th Man to try and cheer me up. I managed a chuckle or two early on but by the time I reached the top of the climb I was a mess. Swaying across the road apparently and could not swallow food.
Into the car I went for a sleep. Chan was also napping too. I was out of it within a few breaths and next thing I woke up and the sun was bright and warm and I could feel it in the car. I stumbled out of the car and was told I was out of it for a good 30 mins. I got some soup into me thanks to the crew (they were doing a brilliant job) and Chan had a quiet chat with me. I remember feeling nauseous but was still trying to get my bearings. I was also dizzy which was probably not ideal but I think the crew were hoping once I had my soup and got on my feet I may be good to move once again. Chan reminded me just to keep moving one step in front of the other.
Chan then had her turn to pace me as I was beginning to wake up. The sun was quite warm but I had my thermal on still for memory. I was beginning to feel better again. The sleep and liquid food intake must have helped. We had a good old time descending most of the way into Jindabyne. It was great seeing the other crews on the side of the road again and I think I was at least holding my pace and place and not getting overtaken by too many people. I actually had no idea on how many people past me during that last interesting hour or so, nor did I care to be honest, finishing and getting that Akubra was my only goal.
The run into Jindy was getting warm and Chan did most of the pacing from the wake up spot with Tim a little stint early on. Thanks so much to both of you for your awesome ability to keep a smile on my face. We got onto the flat sections heading into Jindy when Chan and I got the fright of our lives as a cattle or blue heeler dog barked its head off at us with no warning when it passed us in a ute. Literally we jumped to the right into the bushes in fright !
Almost at the Jindy downhill section now and the sun certainly had some bite and it was only 10am or so. I think I asked Az if he was having a coffee from Jindy soon and that I didn’t mind having a brew right now as I was feeling better and ready for the long climb ahead up to the Ski fields. Unfortunately Az said he was not having one so I got given a full No-Dose tablet instead - caffeine without the style it seemed. We got to the toilets at Jindy where everyone had to attend to their own bowel matters and headed off through the caravan park pathway. Unfortunately the tide ? (or just water level) on the lake was up and poor Chan took me via two short incorrect paths to get me around. It was all fine though, time was no issue for me at that stage and I was feeling ok. Renae Brock and her pacer were joining us now for this stage. We eventually found the checkpoint at Jindy and Az then took the reigns for pacing.
The sun was definitely getting warmer and with the high viz vests required for the climb in the warm sun on the main roads, drinking fluids became a high importance once again. Az and Tim surprised me with a delightful Calippo here for the road section. My eyes lit up, it was just what I required. I began running a bit more here with Az and actually felt reasonably good. The flies were bugging me and Tim and Az sprayed some repellent on the back of my neck and Tim gave me his big yellow wide brim ‘Venn’ style cricket hat to keep the sun off my noggin’ and to cool it down a notch.
Past Jindy, feeling really good post Calippo and preparing for the climb with some anti-fly zen
All was going rather well. We had moved quite swiftly for the next few kms and could see the Thredbo River crossing and Az ran ahead to get some supplies from the car. I was moving ok down the hill to the crossing. Made the crossing and I think I made it by running about 100m past the bridge and passed under one of the very few trees for shade for the next 50km when suddenly I felt a sharp twinge or pain behind my right knee, on the upper calf. I hadn’t felt such a pain all event and knew something just gave way. I tried walking it off for a bit and told Az my calf was hurting. Unfortunately when I tried to break into a trot again, the pain was very sharp. I had no idea what had happened especially as I was starting to feel energetic and looking forward to actually making some good progress on this monster 13km climb ahead.
I’ll continue with the rest of the event in a moment, but since last weekend the calf has been just as sore if not more, so I got Cam my physio and also a GP to assess. Unfortunately it is a tear of the calf but we are also hoping to rule out anything like blood circulation issues where I will know for sure early next week. GP thinks it should not be of concern and I agree but the pain in the calf certainly is sharper than what I have experienced previously. At least the injury will ensure a much needed or forced rest is in order before next year and whatever campaign I set myself.
So having the leg in a fair bit of pain and feeling energetic compared to where I was some 5-6 hours ago, it was correct to say I felt dejected. Defeated also, but not totally nailed down to the ground. I think, in fact I am sure the crew knew this and could see that I was not happy. Not much I could do though other than just to try and keep power walking as much as I could. The impact of running was too much for the leg but the power walking with less impact was bearable and on the pain threshold was about a six as Chan and I kept monitoring throughout the remainder of the event. Everyone told me to keep moving ahead and that I was doing well.
It was certainly warm on the climb. I had the water spray bottle out every 2km-3km as the crew were now stopping this regularly. We saw Joe Gallaher and Steve Bell near the National Park Entry Gates and it was great to get their support. My crew were really great through here. I can imagine the time on their hands between seeing me was now extensive but they were ready with everything I requested each time. I had to keep eating and drink with the weather quite warm and given my length of time out on course. I don’t think I was winning any awards for technique and noticed a few limps in a photo or video or two post race. But the show must go on and finish to get the hat. Time for cut-offs at this point was still a good 4-5 hours ahead of schedule even though Jan passed me with his brisk walking around the Guthega turn off point.
Hopalong Cassidy
Tim pointing me in the right direction - I might be half smiling here
The afternoon light was beginning to filter lightly and a couple of cooler air sections were upon us as I reached the Charlottes Pass (CP) 5km sign, oh that is a sign I was looking for. I got into my thermals during a brief stop at the crew car to save time for when I finally got to CP. This would also assist the crew members with time. I could tell Az was getting a little frustrated and watchful of time. He wanted to summit in light. For some reason (perhaps it was Tim telling him...hahaha) Az thought the climb to the summit from CP was technical and he didn’t fancy that stuff at nightfall. I didn’t want to sound cocky but I knew what was involved to head up to the summit and was still reasonably confident of getting up to the top without the use of headlamps. The descent would be another story for sure, but I was confident in my ability to get up there despite the inability to run at all. Anyway, Az was sort of ‘riding me’ here, asking how long it took to eat a bowl of noodles and I probably gave him some short sharp answers back at this stage, but given the end result I’m sure we were both very happy with the summit time of day in the end really.
We saw a white van up ahead not long after the CP5km sign and I knew it was Alan and his crew. He had already finished and had stopped up ahead where he saw our crew car. I gave him a quick hug and congratulated him on a magnificent performance. This guy has come a long way in the past 8-9 months. UTA 100km, GNW miler (both with excellent first up times) and now this monster in 35hrs and a bit. What achievements ! You should be proud buddy - or should I say neighbour soon, the training journeys were great mate and look forward to many runs with you in the future.
Adam, Joe and Robyn and Al went back to shower and change and have a celebration beer or two before actually coming back up to see me finish. I cannot thank them enough for that, very much appreciated and enjoyable to have them along for the epic event.
Album Cover #2 for the ‘da mob
Something special coming up ?
The last two kms up to the CP area were relentless with a good strong gradient and I felt a little warm and actually spent a bit of energy here. I got weighed but I was making every excuse under the sun before I hopped on the scales that I had so many extra layers on to make me weigh more compared to my thongs and t-shirt and board shorts at Eden on Thursday night. Geez, I may have even mentioned I had fake tan on to weigh me down more - actually a lie, but I am sure Chan is having a chuckle reading this. Chan and I began the summit and Az and Tim caught up a few minutes later as they were getting final preparations and food and water ready in their packs. We made pretty good walking pace progress despite the leg. We saw Jane and Adam C at about 5km in as they were making it back down from the summit. Finish number eight for Jane, amazing and she said get to the top for the last bit of light. Yes that was the goal still and I can tell you the sunlight was amazing for the last 1km-2km to the top. The sun was shining on the snow peaked mountains on one side and then in your eyes on some corners, it was so clear and the air was still, no breeze or wind whatsoever. Near the top we saw Stephen’s crew and we all congratulated Stephen or a remarkable effort. I also requested kindly from Andy Hewat the chief race a medic a hot chocolate for the descent where he was perched just before the snow section where he cuts in some man made steps to assist the runners. Truly an amazing man with dedication to the event.
We made the summit ! Sunsetting in approximately 3-5 mins time. Timing could not be more spot on. I think Az was pleased, I hope! Indeed he was, as I was too. Probably not beaming on the outside, just satisfied within myself that I got to the top of Australia in sunlight and the fact that I kept forging ahead despite some issues.
I was somewhat not aware of what was happening around me as I was standing and then sitting on the monument at the summit. Chan had a silk or cotton bag sprinkling what appeared to be dust all over the rocks on the peak. Again, after having spent 38 or 39 hours on the go, my mind was not picking up things but I found out after the event that Chan had scattered some of Ann’s ashes over the mountain. Ann was a dear friend to us all at NRG and an extremely close friend to Chan. She passed away in a tragic road accident where she was on her usual Sunday morning cycling training with some friends of ours one morning. We were actually enjoying some fine times just the night before Ann's passing with her at a post 2016 C2K party at Chan and James’ place. It must have been very emotional for Chan to bring her ashes along. Ann had crewed for Chan both in 2015 and 2016 so it was such a special moment to do that at the high peak of our Australian land.
The crew and I spent a bit of time on the peak, taking in the full brilliant light and views and many snaps. The photos below are an example of the amazing time of day it was, purely magical, almost unbelievable.
Andy the chief race medic, makes these stairs in the snow with a shovel !
Monument to climb up on in the background amongst amazing sunset light. Tim and Chan your pics were amazing, thank you.
No words for the next few pics, except to say simply brilliant to be up there with my awesome crew.
We then decided to descend and saw Nikki Burke and her crew of Blue Dog, Tanya from NRG and Nikki’s hubby Cam, almost ready for the final few hundred metres for their ascent. It began to get much cooler now and quickly, as the sun went down. The air was much colder and a touch of breeze coming through. I gladly accepted my hot chocolate from Andy as we put our headlamps on and navigated the descent down. It felt like the pace was much quicker, but no, I still could not physically run but the power walking did have some zing in it.
Some of us stopped at the highest toilets in the land for a quick nature break but then it was non-stop to the 8km finish. We got to the Snowy River bridge crossing rather quickly and I was trying to count off the poles to the finish. It seemed to take forever to finally to get to the 1km marker. I thought we were moving at a good speed. Strava tells me otherwise. Luckily we had enough speed to fend off anyone passing us on the complete 18km return leg from CP. Not that it was about placings now, it was about simply crossing that line. The crew went ahead with 100m or so to go and left me to finish the event on my own. I think I managed the slowest of shuffles where I could, to cross that line. It was done in 40 hours and 53 mins. All over ! I was relieved to state the obvious. Not overly excited or tears of joy, just thankful I had made it. I will be the first to say I was a little disappointed with my time, but it was a huge learning experience and also getting the calf injury did not help at a time when I started to feel strong. In the end, I had to remind myself it was always about no pressure, no time goals and seeing it through to get that well earned Akubra hat and that is exactly what I did.
I must thank Alan and his crew yet again for seeing me finish and providing some pizza. Great job all round in getting Al to the finish so swiftly. The ride in the passenger seat back to the accommodation at Jindy post race was interesting seeing on the road - owls, wallabies, foxes, wombats and swerving to avoid a kangaroo and that was all after a change of driver due to fuzzy eyes.
My right hand lost its swelling by the next morning and we assembled in the presentation area to hear Paul speak and provide snippets of every entrants race or story before they were presented with their Akubra’s or C2K race pins.
In finishing I must say and express my sincere thank you and provide hugs to my crew for getting me through this. They all complemented each other in so many ways with their own styles and I hope they enjoyed themselves. Tim - you provided the amusing comments just when needed. Some comments not fit for G or PG consumption here and I think some heard them at the dinner on the Sunday night at Banjo’s in Jindy. Your past experience and wisdom certainly helped me through it. To Chan - you crewing at GNW was superb for me with great results so I had no hesitations or doubts in asking you again to crew and you did not let me know down in any way and in fact excelled way past the expectations. You helped me big time to get out of that slump at the top of Beloka and I cannot thank you enough. Finally to Az - my first first crew member picked and the man to see through tough moments. We had some great moments going through the ranges past Dalegetty without the lights watching the stars. Great to be sharing that with you buddy. Sure we could both feel the frustrations heading up towards CP on late Saturday afternoon light, but we did it. I think the tough times got us through and kept us both on our game and we were awarded with the most amazing summit time of day that anyone can wish for.
The event is purely magical for non-commercial, pure runner/crew experience. It is a brutally tough run but I would be keen to tackle it again. Would definitely do some things different next time if ever given the opportunity but I think crewing may be an option next year instead of competing. The volunteers and organisers are simply amazing. You cannot meet nicer people involved.
So…….It’s a wrap for 2017 in the event circles. I will be resting the calf and enjoying some much needed time away from the running shoes.
Sunday morning Akubra presentation
Two happy hat people
Super crew for Alan - consisting of Adam D, Robyn B and Joe H.
The most amazing crew for me and three great friends, Tim (left), Chantelle (middle right) and Az
(right). Az is not supporting a hat but he may have to rectify that next year.
(right). Az is not supporting a hat but he may have to rectify that next year.
