Lessons I've learnt: the Eiger Ultra & Life in Switzerland

It is fairly difficult to know where to start with this post. How do I sum up the Eiger Ultra? How do I summarise five years of living in Switzerland? I have decided, rather abstractly, to amalgamate the two. Bear with me.

For those of you who have stumbled across this page or do not know my background: I am a teacher and a long distance runner, who has spent the last five years in the Swiss Alps in the Valais Canton. A beautiful region with some of the great mountain peaks at my doorstep, and I have lived approximately 1500m above sea level. I am, the human embodiment of a Marmot (it is no coincidence I have penned a children’s book called “Mildred the Marmot”).

When I have not been in the classroom teaching Speech and Drama as part of the curriculum or managing students as Head of Year, I have been running. Each trail around here feels as familiar and unique as my own hand print, and I have been honoured that this has been my back yard for half a decade.

Last weekend, I took on the Eiger Ultra in Grindelwald, not too far away from home. 54km (approx) and over 3000m of ascent. It was the perfect way for me to end my time in Switzerland, and this magnificent beast of a course had been on the bucket list. Big views, big climbs and big descents awaited. When I arrived to race, I felt a bit out of my depth, having not slept well the night before and finding the first half of the race, tough.

This also rings true of the beginning of my time in Switzerland, arriving in 2018. Having spent much time in the familiarity of Chamonix, I was not sure how I would adapt to a new environment, not knowing anyone and having to start afresh. I was creating my own curriculum, and the challenge of the task felt initially very daunting. Was I ready for this? Had I prepared enough? It was very much, one step in front of the other. Whilst everything felt daunting, I was however comforted by the discovery of each new trail, realising quite how spectacular this part of the Alps was, seemingly unknown compared to the well-frequented UTMB footpaths. Each year seemed to bring new opportunity as well as challenge, and like at the beginning of the Eiger, I knew I needed to graft in the face of some uncertainty. Where was I heading? Throw into that Covid and the impossibility of travelling home, it felt very much as if I was off the well trodden path - at one point going a year without seeing my parents.

From the summit of Faulhorn 25km into the Eiger, things began to look up. The views spanned all the way to interlaken and Lake Brienz with it’s bright aquamarine water, and I could feel my stomach settle and my heart rate steady itself. With the promise of a bit of rest bite from exerting the quads, I relaxed and found a better cadence on the following descents and traverses. The wheels were in motion and I had found my feet. Indeed, life in Switzerland soon became like this for me. I had routine: I worked hard, I trained hard, I visited friends and spoke to my family on the phone on long runs. I was honoured to be promoted to the middle management level at work, and I really, truly, loved my job working with young people. Local races brought a sense of community, and I loved sharing my running adventures with the kids (also helping to run trail running club).

Life was then about to throw another curveball. Like the unexpected nastier sections in a race when you are tired and disoriented with what suddenly lies in front of you. The day my parents phoned me to confirm the fear of my Mother’s breast cancer. Running took a back seat as I rushed home (thankfully not stopped by pandemic restrictions). I sometimes find it hard to articulate this time. My Mother demonstrated true grit, and it inspired me to try and find my own in a different way to any resilience I had developed through “lots of training” or long days at work.

Between us we found strength in not only each other, but funnily enough, through running: I took on the SwissAlps 100, raising money for Macmillan Cancer Research in 2022. The distance (near 100k / 6000m) was more than I had ever attempted in running, but with the support of those around me and a truly wonderful race organiser, I was able to treat the experience as a cathartic one, telling cancer what I thought of it, through pushing on to 4th woman. I tell you, if you ever feel truly angry, (as I did and so many do, due to the barbaric effects of this disease on those we love) go for a really long run. It is amazing how it soothes your soul. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your valuable donations, as we raised over 13k for essential things for the Horizon Centre, which provides comfort and support for those having Chemotherapy treatment in Brighton. They have been so kind to my Mum, kind to my family, and so many others who are in amongst the toughest endurance feat going: fighting cancer. For those in that battle, you have my full admiration. I have seen how grueling, how relentless and how all encompassing the effects are - for which there is no medal. No athlete will ever compare to what you have to take on. To my Mum - you are exceptionally brave, and I love you.

We await more results for my dear mum at the moment, and her battle is continuous and an endurance feat I cannot imagine. I am immensely proud of her. As I approached near 5 years in the Alps, I had to make a decision like a fork in the road. As R.Frost quotes in the “Road Not Taken”, I felt I had really gone down my own wonderful unique path here, and now it was time for new adventures. This time, the mountain was not calling, but home was.

A big reason to return back to the UK is my family. To return back to my roots to find new routes. I am excited for my career path ahead, as well as to return to the Salomon UK ambassador family. While I really believe home is where the heart is, I know that a piece of my heart will always be in the Alps, which I will return to as often as I can in order to feel full.

The end of the Eiger was a beautiful moment of feeling like “the job is done”. Smiles, tears, and a sense of fulfilment as one chapter closes.

I look forward to taking you along more adventures, both in finding wonderful trails in the UK as well as abroad. TBC…

Photos: © Sportograf

Race Report: SwissAlps100

While my brain is still buzzing, and perhaps to try to help me to try make sense of it, I thought I would break down the past 36 or so hours. It does not feel real, and in some respects, feels so vivid I cannot think of much else.

For sure, this will pass as normal life imminently kicks in, but just for a moment…

Here we go…

Intermittent, but fairly restful sleep preceded the “alarm of doom” at 4am on Saturday, 13th August. We headed to the race area to watch the 50km start, before getting ready to kick off the 100km. I will admit, I was nervous. Long training days did not surmount to the race volume (it never does), but the prospect of what was ahead, at 6:15am, felt a bit overwhelming.

 We were told in the race pen, that the race had had to make an emergency change of course – actually, in our favour – diverting away from the treacherous climb to Chäserstatt (due to aggressive shepherd dogs on the hill). We would be instead, repeating a ground traverse. This threw me a bit, as I was constantly visualising the original route profile and subsequent estimated timings. However, this was smoothly handled and executed by the race organisers, considering, what I imagine was a huge organisational feat on their part.

I will break down the next bit in terms of sections of the race:

1.      First 30km

I placed myself at the mid to back of the pack. It was nice to start the race without too much concern with this. I don’t normally enjoy the first hour of racing! Starting, I felt pretty comfortable after a really decent taper time, and took the first hill to Küboden steadily. It was tricky, as I felt strong, but kept telling myself this was not going to be a short jaunt, so I needed to remain steady. The sun came up fully during a very enjoyable trip to the Aletsch Glacier trails, showing an amazing panoramic of the longest glacier in Europe.

I had been eating consistently every 30 minutes, and all systems felt, so far, good. The descent was technical to Niederwald, and took a little out the legs, but the head game was there. I was happy to reach the checkpoint on the descent and re-stock, preparing for what I expected would be a somewhat interesting middle section.

2.     Around 50km

My mind keeps replaying this part of the race. From Niederwald (around 27km), we were meant to head to Reckingen before the part of the race I had been dreading: the long and remote route to Chäserstat – a particularly brutal looking climb. However, due to the race re-direction, this was now taken out – bonus! Or so I would have thought. We now were going to re-lap Reckingen to Niederwald. This now was a relatively quick part of the race, in the full heat. The race overall now had less ascent and was even now a little shorter, but any repetition is not easy, and I am not good on the flat or in the heat. I was aware through counting the women on the return track where I might have been placing, but as this was not the trajectory of the day, I tried not to think about it. From here we climbed a new route to Chäserstat, where I could feel the energy sapping in a way that food and hydration were not fixing.

The mind low.

This got worse. The section from Chäserstatt to Binn, at just after the midpoint, goes to quite a remote area in the heat before a steep climb. I was grateful for David, a runner ahead who I was about to catch up to on this ascent. We kept conversation and this helped distract me from losing my marbles until the brow of the hill, where he went full pelt down. I was now alone, and found the descent very difficult for the majority of this hill, until nearer the end where I could feel my brain coming back.

That is a concept I find difficult to contemplate, and on a much longer race becomes more acute. As ultrarunner Ryan Hogben reminds me, it is essentially, the “Chimp Paradox”. The wrestling that comes within yourself when tested, in endurance feats such as ultramarathons. One moment, I would feel upbeat, strong and even cheerful, to then struggling with the fatigue and battling with myself, without rationalising, in the moments, between states. Time also takes a funny perspective. Most of the time, I had no idea of time of day. When all this is going on, all I could do is check the vital systems (“have I drunk enough?, When did I last eat? How is the temperature? What do I need?), and hope for the best, and attempt to tame the beast that is, my own chimp.  

Catharism was one strategy I had.  I allowed myself, in difficult moments, to get very angry at mum’s cancer. The burst of adrenaline it would produce, worked wonders on grittier, steeper bits.

Overall, I was very grateful to get to Binn. The “home stretch” left.

3.     65km until the end

The final section started off quite well.  I did not spend long in any checkpoint (I did not dare, for fear I would not leave!), but I really was able to equip and refresh well here. I met my pacer (who had been crewing me, more on that in a moment) and I was grateful for a familiar face and the feeling we were now heading home. Sandy and I run at a near identical pace, but this stage would be unsurprisingly slower than our normal training runs, 65km in. I initially chatted away, moving relatively well and feeling strong and ready for the final summit, the Briethorn.

 Except, I had not really taking into consideration what this ascent might feel like on such tired legs. I struggled and swore my way up this climb, having moments of feeling a bout of focus before needing to re-group on repeat between remembering to hydrate and get in a gel. Thank goodness it was still light (not the easiest path, I imagine, in the dark) but was more of a battle than I had prepared. The reality of there still being well over 20km ahead was not something I could focus on too much. We were grateful that the descent path down was steady and wide, as I was a bit over technical descents by this point.

The final part of this race was tough. It looks on the profile, small fry (compared with say, the Breithorn section) but it was mainly along trails full of tricky obstacles such as roots and rocks which in the dark on aching legs feel a hundred times more difficult.

Original profile shows how Grengiols until the end, should comparatively, be easy….

By the time I finally sensed the end, my face folded. The race director, as he had promised, was there to meet me. This was a special moment, as he knew what this race meant to me.

And so, here are some of the many thanks I need to give:

 Sandy – I am not sure without his consistent crewing and pacing for the final 35km that I would have finished in any form of strong position. He had to take every emotion from me under the sun -  I can vouch for that distance not always showing the best of you and I wish I could say I smiled through every mile. I did not.

 It was not until we finished, did I realise how heavy his running pack was – with stuff, just in case I needed it. Truly, grateful.

  Jakob – director for the SwissAlps100. From the beginning, Jakob has been unbelievably supportive, from offering a place in the race once he knew of my wish to raise money for Macmillan, to helpful advice and support over the months. Meeting him yesterday over that finish line was an emotional moment. He is a remarkable man, and in charge of a truly legendary race series – I encourage you to check it out for yourself for 2023. It promises quite the adventure…

 Mum – My mum never once doubted I could do this. She offered support throughout the day which was relayed to me, and has been my right hand woman in us trying to raise money for Macmillan – a charity that has helped so many people, like Mum, fight cancer.

 She is the strongest person I know. As I uttered to myself in low moments, I would do this race 100 times over if it meant she had not had to have had this. I hate what she has had to go through. But love is the strongest thing. I really, really love you Ma.

And we did it! The JustGiving link is here – we are so grateful for anything you are able to contribute.

 Thank you, truly, to everyone for your kind words. It has meant, the world.

70km Run Challenge With My Friends

One day, I was sitting with my colleague and friend Daz Tait, talking about the fact I had a big birthday coming up and also that running had not gone to plan this year. We were also talking about Covid, and life recently. He has been finishing a pretty epic writing journey documenting his sailing around the world, and after a busy term time too, we needed a holiday. The conversation then went something along the lines of this:

“You should do your own race Milly. Get your mates to come and support you at checkpoints”.

“Hang on Daz, that isn`t a bad idea”.

And that is what we did.

I know the trails around this part of Valais, Switzerland, pretty well. This is where I live and work as a teacher at an Le Régent international school. An idea formed in my head to treat the run a bit like a figure of eight, making the most of higher and lower altitude. Over a few weekends I tested out each leg of the route (and my own legs!) and came up with a plan.

As teachers, especially during a time of COVID, life had been pretty busy, and it was extremely special to be able to work as a team in a different capacity, enjoy the great outdoors, and celebrate the summer. Here is a break down of the day.

5:20am - START

Looking out the blinds: the weather looked good. Ah - where`s my head torch?

After gathering the last minute essentials , I met Daz outside. All checkpoint bags had been given prior, so there was nothing to do but - GO!

The route to the Barrage-de-Tseuzier was via a middle “bisse” path, taking into account some rocky overhangs above, scenic wide trail and beautiful views with a little ascent to get warmed up. 600m ascent later and I arrived at the beautiful dam, greeted by Daz who had hopped in a minibus to meet me in time. Going around the barrage is beautiful, and a chance to now relax more into the race.

Chetzeron Chats

I had prepared myself for the main ascent which is from Tseuzier, over the top of the rock to Cry d`Er, before dropping down to the Chetzeron mountain hotel. I was possibly a bit too prepared having gone up the switchbacks and reached this point much earlier than I thought, but was greeted by Nora and Sophie with big smiles and snacks! The weather was warming up, and what then commenced was a good few hours of pure chat. Plus running. Before we knew it, we had got to Cabane de La Tieche.

Behind Nora up the 4x4 track was a car, which seemed to not be in a hurry. I soon found out why - more support crew! Magda, Diletta, Jamie and Anna were there to meet us at the Cabane, where I could deposit my head torch, grab a cap and have a coke. After a logistics chat, Sophie and Nora were happy to accompany me down the beautiful bisse descent to take me to my 40km mark. Aside one nasty fall by Nora (trail can be dodgy!) which required a quick message to the team to have some First Aid at the next checkpoint, all was well and I was not quite as tired as I expected when reaching just over the half way point at Chermingon Lake.

Things got interesting

At Chermingon lake, I dipped my feet in the water and refuelled. Andy was there to meet us, and after a few moments rest (nearly too long - Andy reminded me to crack on as there was still a long way to go!), I said goodbye to Sophie, Nora and Andy and headed solo to Mirouges. It was the perfect hybrid of time with really great people, as well as time alone to reflect on the madness of everything lately.

I was met by Jenny and Daz who had a watermelon (literally the best thing) and where Daz took my food order for the next checkpoint: Lens bakery. Honestly, I have never eaten so well in a race situation.

I then made my way for the next little bit alone, and was beginning to think about the fact I had quite a few hours under my belt, and was feeling a little tired.

So there was nothing like listening to your “WhatssApp” voice notes and being left a cryptic crossword puzzle to get you through until the next checkpoint (thanks Jon). I was then met by Daz on his bike by the bakery, and after wolfing down a pastry and a quick rendition of one of Chamillionaire`s classic tunes, I headed to Christ du Roi.

Not long to go now - another 20km or so. But there was one big hill left. Physically I did not feel too bad (aside a fairly irritating eye reaction to pollen throughout the day) and I put this down to consistent eating. I was aware of the challenges of the final hill so close to the end, so I was grateful to meet the legendary Nicola Don Wider for this part.

Nicola is an ace triathlete, and all round super woman, and the final part of the event would have been really different had she not been there. Her determination, encouragement of me and great chat got me through until we had the final slow climb, where neither of us spoke too much towards the end! As soon as we went over the brow we both gave a sigh of relief as Nicola cheerfully encouraged me through the final km`s.

I got to Lac Moubra, to find my friends there, with a home-made finishing line tape and a bottle of champagne, cake and a picnic! I was really overwhelmed. Running is known as a fairly solo sport, and yet it is the friendship of those directly on and off the trail which makes the adventure of it all so special. After jumping straight in the lake, I sat in good company and recollected on quite a day.

The Salomon #Runonemotion campaign is all about the true philosophy of running, and why so many of us have our lives intertwined by the trail. That day I ran with my friends, for my friends, and could not have done this without my friends. It is an absolute pleasure to work, run and spend time with these people.

Truly, thank you, to Sophie, Nora, Claire, Andy, Magda, Diletta, Jenny, Vanessa, Jamie, Anna and a special thanks to Daz (who`s own big adventures can be found here). You gave me one of the best birthdays I ever had, and I am so grateful.

Here is a video, highlighting the day:

Race Report Trail Aiguilles Rouges (TAR) 2017

On September 24th,  I raced the Trail Aiguilles Rouges (TAR). A 50km, near to 4000m ascent mountain race around the panoramic Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve surrounding Chamonix.  This event has been on my mind and in my sights since last year, when I made the decision not to compete due to a foot injury. 

This year, it was time to take it on. 

© Benoit Ract

0 - 15km

The 4:30am start turned out to be warm. This was a relief. Only the week before there had been snowfall at 2000m, so stripping down to my arm warmers, Salomon Agile SS T-shirt, Salomon Trail Runner shorts and Salomon Exo compression calves, I felt comfortable on the starting line. Intuitively, and like many races before, I chose to wear Speedcross 4’s for keeping grippy and stable on the technical profile.

Thanks for the early pic Meg!

Starting at that time of day was surprisingly chilled out and peaceful.  After the final countdown, we paced it through the main street of Chamonix and I felt really calm, with a bit of thrill for what was happening. I had decided to resist pelting it at the beginning, and as we passed through those initial kilometres, I felt comfortable with this strategy. 

The first climb to Flégère was steady. The perception of an environment I had trained in many times totally changed for me in the limited light, but there was something quite magical about the firefly-like atmosphere of everyone’s torches.  From the very beginning, I was conscious of nutrition, and found myself snacking early into that first climb. Nikki Barnard (one of the best people on and off the trail)  had recommended Snickers, so I began chowing down on a bar within moments into the first climb.

Due to settled snow at Lac Blanc, the course changed at Flégère to then make a speedy traverse to Tete aux vent, before the rocky descent to Col des Montets.

With a male runner leading the small group I found myself in, I gained a good rhythm as I followed the moving light ahead of mine, taking in the boulders and changes to the path as they came. 

It was early in the morning, and early in the race. I had memories of passing other female runners at the beginning, but in the darkness there was very little to indicate where my overall position was. I found myself surprisingly unconcerned with it. Wherever I was, there was a long way to go.

Hearing from a steward “troisieme femme” in the darkness, therefore completely surprised me. However, rather than manically sprinting in some kind of hunger for glory, I decided to try and ignore it. I wasn’t even ten miles in - anything could happen. My friend and great runner Meg had reminded me of the Mantra “ In the first half don’t be an idiot; in the second half don’t be a wimp’, and there was opportunity here to really muck it up. So I told myself he probably said ‘thirteenth’, got my head down, and cracked steadily on.

15 - 30km

The race runs through the picturesque valley floor (fairly indistinguishable at this time of day) towards Buet at about the 15km point, before swinging left and towards the meaty middle section of this race: the ascent to Col de Salenton.

The sun was coming up, and with further confirmation of my third position (and more food) I soon re-gained my uphill rhythm for the hefty ascent. I was in a good headspace and this seemed paramount (despite the slight physical issue of a small pain growing in my pelvis). Soon enough, I was able to move past a female runner who had originally overtaken me on the descent to Col des Montets. I have always enjoyed the methodical nature of going uphill, and felt at peace in the quiet of the morning with the amazing autumn colours.

This part of the course was new territory for me; the further the race went up, the more scramble and boulder-like it became, and I was enjoying the challenge. Before long we were at the fairly snowy col, and I was told I was now in second.  I started to contemplate the race dynamics a bit more; if this was about half way, then how was this going to play out at the end?

30km - 50km

The route to Refuge Moëde Anterne was incredibly scenic, yet I was getting aware that the tiredness was beginning to kick in. By the time I had squelched my way through the muddy latter part of this section, I was chuffed to discover hot soup at the checkpoint which I subsequently, necked.

Then it all got quite interesting.

 Another female runner, Manon Bohard, rocked up at the checkpoint I was shortly to leave from.  This was news; given the fact I hadn’t been aware of her to this point meant she had kept a consistently excellent pace to also overtake the third lady, and was clearly looking strong.

There was a long way still to go and with this in mind, I wasn’t going to hang around here long.

Given the course changes, the route maintained it’s original profile with a trip up to Col du Brévent, before an added descent to Planpraz which then takes you back up to Brévent on the adjacent side (Brévent it's been a pleasure this summer, but I've seen enough of you for now).

© Benoit Ract

The exact feelings are hard to describe during this part, but with the third and fourth lady now visible further down below my climbs, I tried not to lose momentum.  I knew I could gain advantage on the ascents,  but Manon, in third position, was closing the gap between us on the descents.  Thinking ahead, I knew that given the 1500m final descent from Aiguillette des Houches, my main chance to create space was to move swiftly from Brévent on the traverse while I was still in the lead. By this point my feet were sore, and the pain in my pelvis nagged a bit.  My position was maintained, but it seemed a matter of time before our paths would cross.

Which they did. The final descent of this particular race route is a force to be reckoned with; after near to 4000m total ascent, you need to keep your composure for the 1500m straight down from the ridge at Aiguillette des Houches. Scrunching my toes in order to avoid the incredibly sharp pain of literally any impact was the only way to proceed. With only a handful of kilometres to go, I turned to see Manon well on her way. She caught me up.

What was to follow was something I still can’t quite understand. Manon suggested we finish together. 

© Cyril Busset

I couldn’t believe it. Although during the majority of this race I had taken the lead, the profile of the course had played to her final advantage and it was hers for the taking. She didn’t take it. We ran through the streets of Servoz together, and I took her hand for the finishing line.

What a woman.

Writing this has helped to re-live one of the most memorable days yet. If you want to see human nature at it’s best - test it in an endurance event. The way people come together, the support from those you love, the gallantry of competitors, is all pretty magical. Due to a time penalty incurred by the winning woman (and a huge amount of respect goes to her sustained physical power during the race), Manon and I ended up as joint winners of the TAR 2017.

© Matt Groom

It’s done. So happy, and a spectacular end to an awesome summer of trail running. 

What next? I’ve got some ideas for 2018 and cannot wait to live out more adventures on mountain trails. Let’s see… #timetoplay.

Mont Blanc Cross 23km

What a race! Short, intense, humid. Here's the breakdown.

Leading up to this race, nerves kicked in due to the potential size of the race (inscriptions open up to max 1500 runners) and the weather. I don't need to remind you how hot and muggy most of Europe was last week. Considering working, shopping, and generally moving, were proving to be an incredibly humid affair, training was not going to be a breeze.

Needless to say, the heat made training a lot tougher, and I was praying it would cool down a bit to take the sting out of the impending intense uphill race.

 ©Matt Groom 

The Mont Blanc 23km is a race that begins in Chamonix, and ends up at Planpraz below Brévent (approx 2000m altitude). It is a course that undulates from Chamonix, through Lavancher towards Montroc, before hopping about the trails on the other side of the valley until the climb to the first lift at Flégère. After this checkpoint you need to maintain focus for the final marginally vertical zig-zagging action to Planpraz (thankfully finishers are then able to take the lift down).

Quite a lot going on for just 23km.

montblancmarathon.net

The beginning of the race was tough. The sun wasn't out in full force, but you could tell we were certainly at midsummer. This initially undulating course began on very familiar old ground, but I felt a little jaded. As my friend and yoga teacher Alistair pointed out when chatting at class this week, a race transforms well trodden paths with tension and swift moving numbers, creating a place very different. 

I knew this area, but I couldn't take it all in my stride (so to speak). The first bit of a race for me often feels like waking up in the morning on a weekday. The alarm buzzes, you know you need to move and you absolutely do, but it's going to take a few minutes to adjust to it all.

I knew I had familiar faces waiting to greet me at Montroc, a roughly half-way point, and I was there faster than I expected.Let's be real, I was basically feeling a bit grumpy at this point,  so when my friend Alice shouted 'eighteen!' I became motivated by the prospect of being in the top 20 women (we had a deal that if this were the case, she would darn well make sure I knew it).

Knowing the best of this trail was yet to come, I moved more strategically during the second half.

 © Irne Mnguía

When your own inner voice is hard to hear under pressure, let others shout it for you. Never underestimate the power of a 'keep going' bellowed at you. Thank you so much to Alison, Meg, Andrea, Alice, Kaz, Nikki R, Irne and Luca for pushing me on at the sidelines (as well as Filippo who wished me well via WhatsApp. Filippo, I didn't read your message to 'get a move on' until after the race, but somehow I think I knew you had said it).

 ©Matt Groom

Special thanks goes to Matt, for listening to nothing but race chat leading up to the event and for knowing that even though I truly appreciated every kind word of congratulation, we both knew that I ultimately really needed that Coke and salt & vinegar crisps you brought.

In terms of kit, despite trying other great Salomon options, I decided to stick with a recent pair of Salomon Speedcross 4's. Oh, I just love them. They were beast-like on the more technical downhill section before the Flégère climb, and they were comfy on the uphills and rockier bits. Still my top choice.

I finished 10th Senior Female, 17th woman overall. A lot of heat, a lot of runners. Well that was fun! Now for the next.

Tour du Môle

A week today I raced the Tour du Môle in Martigny, in the French Alps. I was intrigued by this race; I signed up not that long prior due to changing my plans a little bit, and I found the concept of this race interesting. 35km, is not a long race, and it certainly isn't an ultra, despite the name 'Ultra Tour du Môle'. But it got you 1 UTMB point for completing the race. So..if the points weren't for length...I guess that must mean it's pretty steep...

Here is the profile and map of the race:

Race profile: http://www.utmtrail.com/-Parcours-.html

The race had three significant climbs. The first major hill once you had got going, is a steep 1200M ascent in approximately 8km. Tough. The starts of races are funny things, and I often question exactly what on earth I am doing to myself when plunging into the race arena in the first few kilometres of a race, with the want to gain a good race position and with the exertion of suddenly pushing yourself. Here it was hard, because it did not take long before you were being truly tested on the uphill! I was unsure of how well I would do, as although I had an awareness fairly early on of being the third of the women to be at the front, I didn't know whether I would sustain it. After all, it's easy to forget while  'pelting it' at the beginning, that this is still a long race. Using all your energy on the first climbs is simply futile!

While going on the up, I was eventually aware of a large ridge to my right of the trail we were ascending. Turns out, that's the top of the Môle. Things had not even got going yet. What a joy.  Interestingly enough, by the time we starting really embracing the steep stuff, my legs were familiarising themselves with the terrain, and my new poles were helping hugely. This was not a time for overtaking competitors or even moving fast..at all... we were all together struggling with the same beast!

Picture: © Fabien Debout

I think I assumed, wrongly, that the ascents in this race were the biggest challenge. 3210m up in 35km is hard work, so surely the downhill would be the recuperation needed between each climb.

Nope.

The descents were really, really hard work. Normally my favourite part of any race, these technical descents put pressure on the knees, required really careful footwork, and were, basically, tough as nails. I still have a sore shoulder from falling backwards on one of the technical descents - this was some going downhill!

By the time of the second hill, the race party has spread out to the point where I felt comfortable in my rhythm and race position, so I was able to take it steady. The route takes on part of the Môle Vertical KM route, so it's just more of steep 'up'. So far, I haven't listened to music while racing, and unless I am chatting to other competitors, I am mainly kept company by my own internal dialogue. Here, it was mostly, telling myself that this wasn't really so bad (slight lie), and there was only one more climb to go before a wonderful descent to the finish line (big lie - it wasn't wonderful).

The third major climb is only 600m from the previous descent point, but I had been warned previously that this is particularly gnarly, because you are knackered. Up we headed, where one of the organisers recording our position asked, in French, what my race number was on my front. Clearly by this point, I was tired (I didn't actually have a clue what he was talking about), so I replied "Je ne sais pas", which must have looked pretty odd, considering, well, I was wearing the darn thing. A good example here of trail camaraderie: the guy in front was able to turn his head and shout out the correct info. Many thanks to you sir :).

It eventually got to the point where we seemed to traverse what felt like the end of the ascent. Hooray! However, just when I began to relax at this prospective, I suddenly heard a groan from the guy in front who had just turned the corner. I then saw what we was complaining about. 

We had a long way of ascent still to go! Why did it feel so hard? We had done climbs double this height gain by this point! Tiredness can have big effects on performance, and this really felt the case with 3210m of up as well as down.

By the time of the last descent, I was pretty pooped. I felt quite slow and was in quite a bit of pain, and let several male runners overtake who still had some power in their legs to beast the descent. I was pleasantly surprised however that as soon as the steep descent finished, we were suddenly back in the town, and it was, as it always is, so overwhelming to  hear the cheers of everybody. The crowds and supporters of the local community in this race, as ever, were really awesome.

To my surprise - I made 2nd solo female. This race could be run solo or in pairs, and it turned out one of the women in front of me was a pair, making a different podium. Many congrats to this pair for their win and efforts. The solo woman who won the race for scratch women, V2F category, Suzanne Perche, had an exceptionally fast time and I really take my hat off to her. More in depth about the results can be found on the website.

Picture: Alan Porthault

This race was a great experience, which although I found challenging, has got me thinking about what I now need to work on for future races. After a winter of trying to get a bit stronger in order to tackle up hills with a bit more enthusiasm..the down hills on steep descents are going to be my new project. :)

Also worth mentioning that this was my first race with poles. Running, or trekking poles were something that quite intrigued me. I could see the benefit of them on steeper ascents, but having such little experience of using them to practise I wondered whether they would hinder me during this race. In hindsight, all I can say is that I am so glad I had them! They were so beneficial on the uphills and even the technical descents to give a break to tired legs.

A big thank you and well done to everyone who took part in this, especially the friends of mine who were also running this beast with me. Alan Porthault, who knows mountains well and has an attitude that always makes me feel calmer before a race, new friend Thomas Catalano who I spent a considerable amount of the run with, and Samantha Brooks, who is a running legend and a good pal. Nothing better than getting to the end of the race and having a great experience that you have all shared together.

Dig Deep 30 mile Race Report

It was a glorious day! After horrendous weather conditions the evening before, it was pleasing to see sunny breezy weather early yesterday morning for the start of the Dig Deep 'Intro' Ultra. A rather amusing title given the navigational requirements of this 48km, approx 1388M total elevation gain route across the Peak District - this ain't no easy jaunt! The atmosphere was buzzing at the start of the race, I was kitted up, and at 8AM, it was time to go.

I started in a pretty strong position, which was a little unnerving given how early on in the race it was, and I was conscious not to get tired when we had a long way to go and hours to run. From Whirlow Hall Farm, the route makes it's way around Burbage valley towards Stanage Edge. I was aware on the way to Stanage of another female runner close behind me, however I noticed her stride wasn't one trying to overtake, so I felt no need to alter my strategy.

I wore my Sense Pro Shorts, Agile tank, S-lab Advanced Skin3 12 Set pack, Bandana and Speedcross 3's - Salomon. © johnroberts.me

© johnroberts.me

What I love about this sport is the ability to make friends in amongst a time of challenge and competition, so within a few miles we got talking, and I could not have met a nicer running competitor! Kate Hastings (Totley AC) and I spent much of the race together as well as chatting with other close by runners, using light banter to support each other on such climbs as the infamous Win Hill. The ground conditions were very surpising, as I expected it to be very boggy from the heavy rain recently, however I finished that race surprisingly un-muddy!

© Dig Deep Races https://www.facebook.com/DigDeepRaces/photos/a.891696660922630.1073741833.380538832038418/891696974255932/?type=3&theater

From Win Hill, the route goes towards Bradwell, before heading up Bradwell Edge and then down to eventually follow the river Derwent. By the time we got to mid way along the Derwent, some runners, including Liz Lewin (also Totley) had strongly met our position. 

Photo: John Roberts

Although I assure you there was no scrap (hehe), it became a very close race for the female top 3 from Hathersage, and it was hard to know what would happen with the end in sight but still some miles to go! I feel I have learnt a lot from this race in terms of tactical nutrition decisions that I made, but towards the end I began to feel heavy in my legs, which slowed down my pace. The reflection time after is always good to see how you can improve.

However, I was chuffed to come in 3rd woman 05:04:35 [1st female time 2014: 5:55:41], 2nd SEF, and 9th overall. Many thanks to Outside Shop for supporting me and the Dig Deep Festival. A fast pace and a great ultra.

Race Report: Tour du Giffre

Last Friday, I caught a plane to Geneva, and headed to the mountains. Time to trail race. Here is my race report:Tour du Giffre.

I had been looking forward to this weekend for so long. After months of injury, and discussions of whether I should do this race, I boarded the plane with a smile on my race, knowing I was ready to run, and the commitment to recover properly had paid off.

The race was held in Samoens, as part of their Trail series in June. The Tour du Giffre is a 31km mountain race, with 2200 + D. The profile was fairly steep, but nothing would put me off a mountain trail. With memories of last year's OCC, I could only dream of the terrain and panoramic views that this route would have, and I could not wait to get my trainers on and be at that start line.

http://www.samoens-trailtour.com/#!tour-du-giffre/c1clq

After a restful Saturday, eating well and enjoying being in the Chamonix atmosphere, I was awoken by the alarm that Nikki Barnard had set."HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOOO YA" resonated throughout the house. It was time. Both to race, and to declare myself a year older - yes, I raced on my birthday! After breakfast we piled into the car and made our way to Samoens.

Getting ready for the race! Wearing Salomon S-Lab Adv Skin 3 12 set, Agile tank, Exo 3/4 compression leggings, Speedcross 3's

Photo: Nikki Barnard

Photo: Nikki Barnard

The race began at 8.30am. As the profile suggests, the challenges begin fairly early on, and after running through the centre of Samoens, we headed up the mountain. It felt a fairly lengthy climb, and my mountain legs had not been stretched on a Alpine trail for little while. Psychologically this was quite a tough part of the race, as I was only fully aware of the miles ahead, and yet already I felt I was exerting a lot of energy.

Then I got my act together - some encouraging words to myself and seeing the friendly face of Nikki's husband Alan passing me, it was time to fire the engines! I wasn't really aware of how I was doing, yet I stayed in the same female position for the majority of the race. It rained just before the start of the race, so the ground was pretty slippery, and it made the trail more technical.  As the profile suggests, the race has two sizeable climbs, which although tough, are interspersed with some really great downhill. The support of the locals throughout the race was so valuable, and definitely helped reinforce the message that we could all do this!

A truly amazing day - and ecstatic to have finished the race 3rd woman.

A wonderful and unforgettable way to spend my birthday.

Dig Deep 2015

So, my summer adventure.

Training underway, getting into the groove of it - excited and psyched for this project and the adventure. This August I shall be taking part in Eight Point Two's Dig Deep Event, running in their 30 mile ultra. I could not resist this race upon seeing that it was held in the beautiful Peak District, containing some nice hills (approximately 1388m ascent), good distance, and some beautiful scenery. With the support from Outside Shop in Hathersage, the Official Race Shop for the event, I'm entered and ready to get ready for this race.

Have a watch of last years Dig Deep:

More about Dig Deep Races:

It will be a great festival with evening talks scheduled from Nikki Spinks, Sally Fawcett and myself, among others. Definitely come and say hi if you are able to make it - I love hearing about other peoples inspirational stories and adventures.

All being well I am also heading to Chamonix this June for a race (could not think of a better birthday present to myself than some mountain running!) with one of my best pals and Running Wild compatriot Nikki Barnard (www.barnardsadventures.com). It will be a lot of fun, a lot of laughs and hopefully good weather - a perfect training opportunity :)

Salomon Ennerdale 25km Trail Race

Well, the weather wasn't so great on the way up to the Salomon Ennerdale 25km Trail Race, but I told myself - hey, it's good practice right? For bigger races, where the weather is unpredictable - and sometimes the really big rain is better than just the intermittent light drizzle.

By the time we arrived (and many thanks to a very dedicated boyfriend for a lot of driving very early on a Sunday morning) the weather had stabilised, and it was time to register - rather last minute!

The trail starts on very clear, flat trail paths. I didn't particularly find the beginning of this race very inspiring - flat, fast and the constant thought of placing in your head. However, at the half way checkpoint - the attitude changes. Nice rocks to hop along, streams to get the feet muddy and some very beautiful trails in very scenic Autumn surroundings.

© Stephen Wilson www.granddayoutphotography.co.uk

The downpour came when there was a kilometre to go!

Photo: John Roberts

Shorter races equate to a faster pace - which isn't my real favourite, however it is good experience for speed work. It is also more feasible when you are busy and don't have the time to train for regular very long distance races. 25km is actually a really nice distance for a shorter trail - longer than a half so you do feel you have time for exploring, yet not too long that very regimented training is an actual necessity.

Happy to come 1st woman, beating the last years first place result on a slightly longer route and to win a new pair of Salomon shoes!

OCC

On Thursday, my alarm went off at 4.20am, and I knew what I had to do. Go and run my first ultramarathon. 53km, 3300M positive ascent.

Soon after arriving in Switzerland from France at just before 7am, I started to get my thoughts  together.  My support crew would see me on the way - but this bit I had to handle alone. As I waited on the start line, I had a tap on my shoulder and it was Jaime! I had met Jaime on top of a mountain on a training day, when we had discovered we would be doing the same race. We wished each other well for the race, and we were ready to go.

The first 7km were straight forward, feeling the pace and getting comfortable. My concern was the 17km in the next stage between checkpoints. Funnily enough, this seemed relatively easy going, and I got to the next checkpoint without much issue.  It was about 15 miles in, and a large climb in front of me, that I started to feel tired and the doubts set in. I was feeling tired...the sun was blisteringly hot...it would still be a little while till the next refreshment post and a long way until the finishing line. But I got through it - a good talking to myself, some food and water from my bag,  the remembering that I had some of the support crew waiting to cheer me on at the next checkpoint, the determination to finish because I had worked so hard for this - I was not going to go down without a fight.

Then a funny thing happened. An elderly gentleman watching the race, mentioned as I went past him that he thought I was "premier GB femme". It was like spark going off in my brain. I didn't know if it was true; I had thought earlier on in the race I might be top 50 hopefully. But first for Great Britain on the first year they introduce the OCC - well, that would be cool. But A) It might not be true, and B) Nothing is certain until the finish line.

My boyfriend confirmed the gentleman's assertions at the next checkpoint in Vallorcine, and after briefly seeing familiar faces, more food for the journey and fresh hope, I was on my way for the next climbs.

The following miles were tough, but also fond memories of yet more beautiful scenery, time spent to reflect, and the constant drive to get to the end, and finish my first ultra. The longest I have ever competed in is a half - marathon, and I was not prepared to go home without an ultra to my name.

The clock confirmed my finish time as 07:39:34. I was 8th woman overall, 5th for SE F category, 1st woman for GB.

I had a crazy idea in January to run over 50km in the mountains. This August I made sure that happened. Got something you want to do? Listen to yourself, and prove to yourself you can realise what you didn't think could happen. It can, so make sure it will.

Now for the next races...