Category: Ultra Marathon

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Volunteering at the Inaugural Winter Warrior Ultra

Saturday, November 1st, saw the inaugural Winter Warrior 50km ultra marathon take place.  Organised by Boghopper Races, the event challenged runners to follow the Boudicca Way from Norwich to Diss – the reverse route of the successful summer 50km race.

I’d originally planned to sign up for this event over the summer as a great stepping stone towards the Peddars Way Ultra next February. However, due to a persistent knee issue, I made the sensible decision to withdraw.  Feeling a bit down about not being able to run, I decided the best way to regain my motivation was to be around inspirational people pushing themselves over the 50km distance. So, I signed up to volunteer for the day!

Checkpoint 1 and Tracker Monitoring

After being added to the volunteers’ WhatsApp group, I was pleased to see fellow club members Kerrie and Kirsty were also helping out. My main assignment was Checkpoint 1 (CP1), located about 11km into the race.  The night before, there was a last-minute call for someone to monitor the runner tracker and contact anyone who went off-course. I happily took this on, knowing it would keep me entertained while stationed at the road crossing later in the day!

Saturday morning was an early one. I packed plenty of snacks (essential for long shifts!) and extra warm layers before heading off to CP1 at the beautiful All Saints Church in Shotesham. All the food and drink had been dropped off the day before, so we got straight to work: setting up tables, spreading out the refreshments, filling water jugs, and “flattening the coke” (if you know,
you know!). It was lovely to see Kerrie and Kirsty and have a good catch-up before the runners arrived.

Everything was set up just as the first runners started coming through. The first three arrived together at an incredible pace, followed by a steady flow of participants. Being the first checkpoint meant all the runners came through in a relatively short space of time, which kept things rather hectic!

Road Crossing Duty

Once the tail runners had passed, I made my apologies around tidying up (sorry, Kerrie and Kirsty!) and set off on the 20-minute drive to my next post: Road Crossing 3 at Tivetshall, where runners would cross the busy A140 for the final time.  On arrival, I met my companion for the afternoon, a lovely fella named Steve from Coltishall Jags. Our job was to warn runners of the upcoming crossing as they approached. We had to be vigilant, as we found a few runners had somehow managed to approach on the wrong side of a
hedge, requiring us to direct them back about 400 metres to rejoin the correct path! At one point, I even had to help the runner in third place cross a ditch after he’d come up on the wrong side; unfortunately, he was overtaken as he got back on track. Being 40km into the race, the runners were far more spread out, so we had to man the crossing until 5:00 pm when the final runners came through.

My tablet came in handy for monitoring the tracker. It was quite fun making sure everyone stayed on course! This involved checking the link every five minutes and reviewing their positions. If someone appeared to be off track, I’d wait a few minutes, refreshing the page to see if they realised their mistake. If they kept heading the wrong way, I’d give them a call. I had to make several calls that day, but luckily, everyone answered, and I managed to get them all back on route. One couple went off course several times – we joked about the extra distance they’d given themselves when they eventually came through the road crossing!

Once the last runners had safely crossed the road, we removed all the signage, and I drove over to the finish line in Diss to drop it off. I let the organisers know I was heading home at that point, as I had an 80-minute drive ahead of me.

Finding My Running Mojo

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the day, despite it being a long one. The weather was great (though it did get cold as the sun went down), and watching everyone pushing themselves gave me loads of inspiration – it definitely helped me get my running mojo back!  I would absolutely recommend signing up to help out at one of these events and will definitely be volunteering at more of them. The extra bonus? Apparently, I can now sign up for a free
50km race myself, which is a nice saving!

Report by Andy P
Photo Credit:  Giles Thurston

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Reflecting back on Autumn 100 (18-19 October 2025)

Sadly a DNF but completed 95 miles on foot.

Organised by Centurion Running, Autumn 100 (A100) is a 100 mile (approx 161 km) race with 16 aid stations and 16 cutoffs, the final cutoff being 28 hours. It takes place on the beautiful trails in West Berkshire and South Oxfordshire and involves 4 legs of approximately 25 miles of out and back (so with each leg being about 40 kms), all in different directions from and to the same point. The map resembles a cross and the race starts at the intersection of two little villages, Goring and Streatley. Legs 1 and 4 are on the Thames Path so are mostly flat while Legs 2 and 3 have uphills and downhills, the former being through beautiful trails through ancient woodland to Swyncombe and back to Goring, while the latter is mostly on chalky and stony paths all the way up to Chain Hill and back to Goring.

I was very happy with how I did on Legs 1 and 2. Leg 2 was familiar terrain to me from previous races in the area. I knew it would be hard but also beautiful. On the way back to Goring I ran with another runner for about 10 miles or so. We had a nice conversation along the way.

I completed Leg 2 knowing I’d actually set a pb for myself for the first 50 mile (81km) distance.

It was, of course, only halfway and there was more work to be done!  Each time I came back to Goring  I had access to my drop bag (the beauty of this race set up) and I had a change of clothes for each leg and some food of my choice in addition to what is offered at each aid station (which is actually a nice spread). We’d been told Leg 3 would be cold and windy as it is quite exposed so before I went out on this leg, I got changed to ensure I was well wrapped up. I was comfortable and warm. It started to rain at this point but as it wasn’t heavy rain my windproof top was sufficient in keeping me dry. I didn’t need my full waterproof jacket.

As this race involves out and backs, as a back of the pack runner I was continuously seeing runners coming towards me. This is a nice feeling even if you know you have yet to cover the distance they have already covered when they go past you.  It also means you are not out on your own and they can cheer you on while you cheer them on, too.

My experience on Leg 3 with the out and back was quite remarkable as I continuously saw headtorces approaching towards me in pitch dark. There would be a few, then five or six, then another five or six,  then nine or ten, then one or two and so it went like this with what seemed to be at least a hundred runners. It was a truly beautiful spectacle! I wish I had taken a photo of this experience!   I didn’t take any photos at all during the race. On the way back to Goring I was mostly on my own and was able to run at reasonable speed. Arriving at Goring before the final leg I made sure to change my top and tried not to hang around too much before the final leg.

I set off for Leg 4 with another runner. Again it was good to keep one another company. At this point I was doing more walking then running but managed to get into a running rhythm all the way to the penultimate aid station at Reading. I had a low point after the Welcome to Reading sign. Although I’d read that the aid station was nowhere near and there was at least 4 miles (nearly 7 kms) yet before I would arrive at the checkpoint. The sun was out and the views were gorgeous but I was getting exhausted physically and so I was run/walking. I was aware I might not make it to the Reading aid station within the cutoff but I managed it and arrived there just over 15 mins before it would close. The cheers I got from all the volunteers here, some of whom were in the balcony, were very motivating. After a quick run up the stairs (don’t know how I managed that!) to wash my hands and get some squash, I made my way back down again and back onto the Thames Path. 87.5 miles was complete. I had 12.5 miles (just under a half marathon) to go.  And I had 3 hours 45 mins to complete this distance. I could do this. I smiled and headed on. Soon after I felt some pain at the bottom of my spine. I worried as my bone density in that area is low. I was in discomfort. I realised somehow this pain was also not allowing me to run! I stopped to stretch my legs and back but couldn’t lift my legs to stretch my quads. My back pain was not easing off. I thought of going back to the Reading aid station to declare defeat but no I had enough time and I would sort my back out and carry on. Sadly whatever I did made no difference. On the contrary things worsened as I started to develop “runners’ lean” – a phenomenon well-known in ultras but one which I had never experienced ever before. It was distressing. I could not stay upright. I was leaning to the right, bent over almost to my waist(!) and trying to walk was agonising. By now I was halfway to the final aid station but all I could do was walk slowly, stop and stretch and then carry on.  The course sweeper was now in sight so when he caught up with me we walked together for a while. We had a nice chat. The remaining distance to the final aid station where my race would end seemed too far away. By the time I could make it to the final aid station the sweeper bus was waiting to collect me. I had covered almost 95 miles on foot. The last 5 miles had to remain unconquered.

A 100 is a fabulous event and I hope to be back to conquer it!

Photo credits: Pierre Papet, the official race photographer

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Ultra Trail Mont Blanc (UTMB)

Review of the UTMB by Colin Stark

Called the ‘big dance’ the Ultra Trail Mont Blanc (UTMB) is the best and greatest trail running event on the planet. I was lucky enough to get my place through the ballet and through index points which I’ve earned through racing in the Ultra Trail World Series races in Snowdonia 100k in 2022, 50k in 2023 and 100k in 2024. So, it took 3 years to earn my place.

The race starts in Chamonix, France and is an anticlockwise loop around Mont Blanc passing through Italy and Switzerland. The trails are used by many hikers throughout the summer months, and there is a cut off time of 46 hours to complete the 108mile loop with 10k metres of ascent.

Approx. 2500 take up the challenge and are ready on the start line at least 2 hours before the 5.45pm start time. The Elite runners are introduced individually to the massive crowds and 5 minutes before the start the famous UTMB music ‘Conquest of Paradise’ by Vangelis bellows out. The music is iconic and the most beautiful, unique start to any race as the emotions of all the effort and preparation to be on that start line mean there wasn’t a dry eye among any of us.

Off we go through the streets of Chamonix with thousands of spectators who have to be the most enthusiastic crowd I have ever known. The weather forecast said rain from 6pm and for once it was spot on with the heavens opening just 15 minutes into the race. I had opted not to start with my rain jacket but I had it ready in my race belt so I could get it on quickly while still running and not losing any places.

The first big climb came 10k in at Les Houches where my Leki poles came out to join the party. I knew Kelly (wife), Harry (son), Ben and Anna (friends and also Runners Next the Sea members) would be somewhere on the climb and I was looking forward to seeing them. It was a party atmosphere despite the weather and everyone around me was highly amused by the amount of shouting from Ben and Harry!

The first checkpoint was in St Gervais at 14 miles and the whole town comes out to support the runners. I was going well and felt good and focused for the night ahead and although the rain was still hard it wasn’t a problem, and I was happy with my kit choice.

We went onto Les Contamines and the famous Notra Dame climb. I’ve never witnessed such energy and passion from the spectators, and I was in awe that the crowds were willing to stand on the side of a mountain in the horrendous rain to support the runners. It was truly amazing.

As the climb continued the rain turned to sleet and very heavy snow and I made the decision to put my waterproof trousers and gloves on. I probably did this 30 second too late because I was shaking of cold and now had both sets of kit wet through. I was also feeling the altitude and was dizzy and felt sick. However, stopping was not an option as it was so cold I would have been in real trouble. In total this climb was 2500m and many runners around me were starting to struggle with the cold. The path was a muddy mess with hardly any traction as we summitted (finally!). Its not as if I’m not used to mud, so the decent went well and I managed to overtake quite a few runners despite still feeling really sick and retching often. I did overcook it once and ended up sliding down the mountain on my backside ripping my waterproof trousers.

The next check point was Les Chapieux at 32 miles. All the runners had more than earned their right to be there, but some were already calling it a day. The volunteers were also more serious than usual and everyone who left that check point was told to wear every item of clothing they had. Prior to the race the ‘cold weather kit’ rule had been activated so we all had additional layers. I am never cold usually during a race, even on The Spine race in January, but I had on running tights, waterproof trousers, long sleeve base layer, thermal top, thermal arm warmers, coat, hat and waterproof gloves (not what you would expect in August!)

All through the night was snow, sleet and rain depending on how high we were, and I was still struggling with altitude and sickness which meant I wasn’t really taking on enough fuel and definitely not 2/3 gels an hour which I would normally need.

Eventually the weather improved, and the sun came up as I approached Courmayeur in Italy and I arrived here about 8am, which I was really happy with. This is a major checkpoint and at almost 50 miles it’s just under halfway. It’s also known as the runner’s graveyard as historically lots withdraw at this point due to the mind games of knowing you are only half way and its impossible to do the same distance again.

After Cormayeur my quads were really feeling battered. I just didn’t have my normal energy levels, and it was so frustrating not to be able to push on like I normally would. I was getting overtaken by many runners moving better than me and the long climb to Grand Col Ferret was tortuous and there was a real battle going on between my head and my body. I had obviously been in this place before and it was this experience which helped me keep going, along with a phone call with an old running friend and a text from Kelly.

Despite the good weather and amazing views, the next 30 miles were a low point and it was just a case of grinding it out. However, knowing Kelly, Harry, Ben and Anna would be at Trient, Switzerland kept me focused although I was stumbling about and a bit of a mess. Harry and Ben made the 2 mile climb to meet me before the checkpoint, so it was great to see them. The banter was brilliant ‘aarghh fancy seeing you here’ was the saying of the holiday and Ben took some videos of my incoherent mumblings!

The descent to the checkpoint was slow and painful but I did still manage to pass a few runners. When I got to the checkpoint at 11pm it was buzzing with supporters and volunteers with a party like atmosphere. Unfortunately, I was not in a party mood at this point and Kelly took charge, sorting out my kit, feet and strongly encouraging (!) me to eat more. I really needed the energy boost as I was now approaching 29 hours of running.

I set off into the night again knowing I would see everyone again at Vallorcine but just as I got going, I started having head torch trouble. Luckily the mandatory kit means I had a spare so I wasn’t too worried, but no head torch would have meant an instant DNF as it would be so easy to fall off the side of the mountain.

I arrived in Vallorcine at 2.30am to be greeted by my support crew, and I was feeling much better and managed to eat some cheese and biscuits. Vallorcine is a happy place knowing there is only 1 more mountain between there and Chamonix and only 10 miles to go.

The trail to the final climb is a long slog in the dark, remembering it well from previous events (CCC in 2015 and UTMB in 2018). There is no chatting among the runners at this point as everyone prepares for the final brutal climb. The ascent to La Flegere is very technical with big rocks, tree stumps and tree roots all over the trail. The climb is about 800m before it descends again for 400m then climbs again to 1900m. I felt like it would never end. I was mildly hallucinating and I’m sure I saw a giant mouse, among other things. I’d experienced this before so could see the funny side and was actually feeling much stronger and hoping for a good finish.

On the last descent the sun was rising over Mont Blanc, I was feeling good, and I was determined to make up as many places as I could to make up for such a long bad patch in the middle of the race. Many of the other runners had the same idea as me so we ‘flew’ down the mountain (that’s how it felt anyway) although the reality was probably different. The switch backs came and went, and I managed to overtake at least 10 runners. I met Harry on the outskirts of Chamonix as he wanted to run in with me and I kept looking back to check I wasn’t being chased down.

The finish was really special with Harry beside me and Kelly, Ben and Anna waiting on the line. What a race it was! I really had to push myself to the limits both mentally and physically, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. Seeing other people achieving their dreams in such a special race is so amazing and I’m sure I’ll be back next year when its Ben’s turn to run!!

Race time: 37 hrs 52 mins

Global Rank: 548

Category Rank: 23

Starters: 2,492

Finishers 1,664

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Robin Hood 100

Thank you Nur for your Robin Hood 100 report. 💪
21st-22nd September 2024
Robin Hood 100 is an event that’s held every two years and places get filled up very quickly once race entries open so I wanted to guarantee a place well in advance and signed up in May 2023! Never had I thought I would consider registering for such a distance but wanted to give it a go. I decided I would use each month of 2024 up until the event in September to take on a long distance race to help my monthly running distance that would contribute to my training. By the beginning of September this year I had already run 1000 miles (1,600 kms) which included running at least one race each month and going to the gym for strength training (resistance training, weights, rowing) usually twice a week. I checked various 100-mile training plans. Long hikes were part of these plans. I mixed and matched and planned my own training. I kept the running mileage steady but also benefited from long hikes organised by my hiking group, Muddy Boots. It wasn’t only about running, hiking, and going to the gym but I was aware I had to ensure that I could prepare myself mentally for the challenge. I had to believe I could do it. With each month that went by prior to the race my confidence grew as I was finishing each race I entered with reasonable results.
I knew 60% of the route (Sherwood Forest, Creswell Crags and Clumber Park) through having run a race in the same area (Dukeries 40, in May 2024) and this gave me added confidence as it was like recceing some of the route before an event.
The initial part of the route involved running through some field edges with rugged terrain and then on a long stretch on the Chesterfield Canal towpath which was beautiful. My ever first ultra (in 2017) was on the same canal towpath but in the opposite direction. The canal was like a river, winding its way through land. The water looked clean and inviting! The towpath was quite narrow in places and rugged, too. After leaving the canal towpath at around 20 miles, runners take on a 30-mile loop covering Sherwood Forest and its surroundings. This loop is then repeated before the 20-mile run back on the same canal towpath. There are altogether 17 aid stations (all outdoors). Using these stations as a stepping stone to conquer before the Finish at 100.5 miles I had planned my pacing strategy as such: 13-min miles up until 41 miles followed by 14-min miles till 71 miles which is then followed by 16-min miles till 90th mile and finally 15-min miles till the finish. I hoped to finish around 25 and a half hours (cut-off being 30 hours). During the race my pacing plan worked almost impeccably until 31 miles. I saw Tim earlier in the race and later kept in touch by text messages. This was great as I was getting positive feedback from him. He was very impressed by my pacing as it had clearly been going to plan. Tim was also updating the rest of the family and friends while I concentrated on the event.
By 41 miles my pacing was out by an hour. I didn’t worry too much about it. I was running comfortably and really enjoying the beautiful trails and the scenery. At 51st mile I had access to my drop bag for the first time. This was an important point in the race as I got changed (there was a changing tent at this aid station). I also changed my shoes and socks – it was a recommendation I had read about in the build up to the race. It was definitely a good decision. I then had some soup, bread, tomatoes and grapes from the aid station. All in all I knew this would be a long pit stop! It was about 45 mins (maybe longer?!) but it was worth it. I felt strong and bouncy afterwards and continued enjoying running in the dark.
By 61 miles my pacing was out by two hours. Still I didn’t worry too much. It was well after midnight, possibly 1 am! By this point the batteries of two of my torches had already died so I was now using the third one. To make life a little complicated it started to drizzle, soon afterwards giving way to torrential rain. I didn’t mind it too much but did start getting a little worried what would happen if my torch died in the middle of the forest and I wasn’t able to replace the batteries in the pouring rain. I made it to the aid station at 71 miles still in good spirit. This was the slowest part of my race. 10 miles – but it had taken me nearly three hours to do it! Instead of running I had jog/walked this part to match the pace of those runners I saw during this loop. It was comforting to know that if my torch did die there would be people near me. Thinking back I realise if I had continued to run, the possibility of the battery lasting the 10 miles on full beam would have been high. I guess I didn’t want to take any chances. Being in the forest loop for 3 hours in the rain meant that I was soaked by the time I arrived back at the aid station at 71 miles. It was 4 am! I needed to shelter from the rain, dry my hands, and change my torch batteries. I had to huddle under the aid station tent and hope for the best! As I was battling with batteries I realised my teeth were chattering. “Oh no please don’t get cold” I said to myself. The runners who had arrived at the aid station similar time to me were all contemplating on quitting and I was asked if I had decided to stop, too! Oh no, no, no I thought to myself and said I would be carrying on but that I had to take some shelter from the rain before getting back out in it again. The problem is by now I was getting really cold. I managed to sit down as some people had already been collected and there was space to sit down. The seat was wet and cold but I just had to make do. What did I need to do to make sure I didn’t end up getting hypothermia? There was no way I was going to give up as I felt good physically (except feeling cold) andI would kick myself if I were to stop. So many people had sent me good luck wishes beforehand, many had contributed to my fundraising page (helping me raise £530 for Beat), many cheered on virtually while I ran. My family had full belief in me, and so did my friends. As I thought about all this in a split second while trying to avoid getting hypothermia, I remembered that I had my warm hat and a base layer both as mandatory kit in my running vest. I put these on. I am so glad I did as I felt better very soon afterwards. And that’s despite realising my dry bag had frayed at the seams so my base layer had got a little damp! It wasn’t disastrous though. Hat and extra layer on, soon my mind said I was warm enough and that I could carry on if the rain slowed down a little.
I had 5.5 miles to the next aid station and a little over 10 miles to the one after where I would be able to use my drop bag for the second time and more importantly meet my friend, Akgün, who would be pacing me from that point onwards till the end of the race. I was in touch with Tim and Akgün, updating them now and again on how I was doing. Akgün volunteered to come to the next aid station to pace me. This was a great text message to receive. “Yes that would be lovely” I replied. This would mean I had only 5.5 miles to run in the rain before I saw him. By now it was nearly 5 am! Off I went. Running helped me warm up further and although my feet felt soaking wet I was enjoying being out on the course again. Creswell Crags is where the next aid station was and it would be my second time going through it during this race. In my opinion approaching this area is one of the toughest parts of the race as you have to go up a slope and then run on rugged terrain through overgrown bushes before you descend to the majestic Creswell Crags. As I went up the slope with my torch still on I could see several cows at the top of the hill and there would be no way of avoiding them if I wished to continue. I have over the years overcome my fear of cows to some extent as this was not the only race where I encountered cows at close proximity. There were four of them but fortunately they all looked calm. I switched my torch off not to arouse curiosity and carried on climbing towards them. Luckily by then I could see the route without any torchlight as it was almost morning light. Up and up the slope and then down the rugged terrain. Soon afterwards I could see two people waving at me and saying something. I couldn’t make out what they were saying but realised it was my friends, Akgün and his wife Reşide. It was a lovely moment. I wanted to walk a little but there was no time to hang around. We ran to the aid station which was less than half a km. I didn’t need to stay too long there. A few hugs from Reşide for positive energy, off we went. Now there were 25 miles to the end of the race. I thought this is doable. There was still time to the first cutoff at the next aid station where I would have access to my drop bag for the second time. This is where soup was on offer, too, so I was looking forward to that. Arriving there within 30 mins of the cutoff I decided there was no time to hang around but I wanted to change my shoes, which I did. However I didn’t put my spare insoles in it to get the added benefit of cushioning. I also made the mistake of not changing my wet socks. This all meant I ended up feeling every bit of the terrain on my soles while my feet slid to and fro within my shoes. The last 20 miles were not the most comfortable as a result. I am amazed that nonetheless I ended up with only one blister which disappeared within 4 days after the event. It wasn’t only my feet that were uncomfortable during those last 20 miles but I could feel some chafing, too! Amazingly though my legs weren’t complaining and neither was my hip. They held on till 90 miles when my legs started to get very tired and my hip said “hello, do you remember me?!?” It was then that I thought I should have a carb gel to stay on top of tiredness. It was the first and only gel I used during the whole event. In fact I used real food all the way: tomatoes (lots of them!), satsumas, bananas, watermelon, pineapple, grapes, cheese, peanut butter sandwich, salted potatoes (lots!), baked crisps, hula hoops, dates, oat bars, soup (butternut squash and corn), and a bar of snickers as a treat after half way. As for what I drank – apart from water, some electrolytes and small sips of flat coke which always goes down a treat during ultramarathons. It’s not a drink I normally drink otherwise.
At mile 90, I saw my friend Reşide, who cheered me on, and soon afterwards Tim who was waiting with a small bottle of flat coke which tasted the best ever coke I’d had and suitably caffeinated I carried on to take on the last 10.5 miles albeit a little slowly.
My pacer Akgün’s role in this race can never be underestimated. It was fantastic to have him as a pacer during the last 25 miles of the event. I had never run with him before but it was him who’d got me into ultrarunning in the first place (back in 2017!) and when he volunteered to pace me, I thought that it was a fabulous idea. I am so glad that I agreed. His pacing skills and doing the thinking work of how long is left and whether we’re on the right route, etc., all helped tremendously. If it wasn’t for him the last 3 miles would have been particularly tricky – I kept thinking I was nearly at the finish but that finish never came. I wanted to slow down but he made sure I didn’t.
When I finished I wondered if it had all been a dream. It wasn’t. It was real and it felt good.
I am forever grateful to the volunteers in the event who were very positive and wished the best for every runner. I am also very grateful to everyone who believed in me and in particular to Tim, Akgün and Reşide who dedicated their time and effort into making the event a success story for me during the weekend of 21st-22nd September.
Robin Hood 100 is one of the several races that Hobo Pace organises. I’ve actually done 4 of their events to date and would fully recommend anyone interested in trail running to check them out. There’s something for every trail runner, from 10 miles to 100, all in beautiful surroundings in Nottinghamshire.
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Boudicca Way 50k

Thank you to Kirsty L for her Boudicca Way 50k Ultra report:

On Saturday 20th July, Andy, Lucy, Kerrie and I took on the inaugural Boudicca Way 50k. Organised by Boghopper races, it started at Diss and wound its way upto the finish line at Trowse, not far from Norwich.

On the day, and unless you were completely oblivious, it was absolutely baking hot. All day and with barely any shade. Even gathering in the church hall for the pre-race briefing it was stifling at 815am. We set off on our way, Lucy and Andy running their respective races and Kerrie & I together doing ours. It was a beautiful route which despite the heat, could still be appreciated. Along the way we chatted with several others and kept a nice atmosphere. This was good, not only is it nice to know that hopefully you’re still on the right route (and not all lost together) but the heat made us a little quieter than usual so extra people buoyed our spirits a little.

There were four checkpoints, two with actual toilet facilities! The ultimate luxury in trail running surely 😉 They were fairly well stocked, sadly some had run out of flat coke but luckily there was a pub enroute and I also had some in my ‘lunchbox of Notre dame’ backpack for us to share.

We had been given a list of mandatory kit to carry which was pretty extensive and heavy! This led to a situation at the kissing gates where me and my bag were too big to fit through 🤣 this definitely lightened the mood, especially when it was the same at the other end of the path!

Although not everyone’s favourite part of the day but at one point, we ran through a boggy section which cooled my feet a treat. When we finished however, we were told it was pig waste 🤢 which Andy confirmed the following day that he could smell it on his trainers.

I would definitely do this again, a lovely route and fantastic company as always. Although we didn’t all run together, we did car share which adds to the excitement and atmosphere. Plus more company when you’re walking over a mile back to where the car was parked!

Kirsty L

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Norfolk 100K 2024

Towards the end of last year, Positive Steps announced that 2024 would be their last year of organising and hosting events. As an addition to the regular grandslam that they do (completion of Peddars Way, Norfolk 100k and the Bury 50k within a 12 month period), they were advertising this year with an ultimate grandslam; so completion of the standard three races plus the Marriott’s Way and Norfolk Coastal marathons and the Bury to Clare Challenge. This intrigued me and I found myself signing up for the Peddars Way and saying, yes I was entering for the ultimate grandslam.

Peddars Way was an absolutely brilliant way to get extra distance in my legs in preparation for the 100k and it was also good for the route recce; the latter part of the Peddars forms some of the first part for the 100k. With the help of Kerrie and Lucy, I got some of the route practised and fresh in my head, especially parts which I hadn’t done before – mainly from Morston quay towards the finish.

In the last few weeks before the big day, I had done a lot of mental homework; working out what time I wanted to be at the first and second timed cut-off points and my average pace to achieve this. I also planned drop-bags for each check-point with drinks, snacks and motivational messages to myself for when I got there to get me through to the next point. I felt this helped me go through the check-points quite quick as I didn’t have to stop so long for lots of refilling and picking at snacks. I also had a jug with coke in to make it go flat ready for Saturday.

On the day my alarm went off at 4am so I could get to Castle Acre in good time, I wanted to start at 6am which had been allowed; the official start time is 7am but I figured if I wanted a fighting chance to complete this, then it was a good help! My partner Mark drove me there and getting out of the car you could see it was going to be potentially a good day and I realised I hadn’t put my sunglasses in! Collecting my race number and tracker, I felt unbelievably sick and shaky – I was so nervous. I could have quite happily got back in the car and gone home. Seeing Lucy and Nur there helped me relax a little but I still felt sick, worried I was going to get lost early on and still doubting I was going to make it to the finish line. Especially when everyone else there looked so much more confident and capable. I had said to Mark that if I call him to pick me up to say no! I missed Kerrie as we had run all the other events together, today I was on my own but was nice knowing she would be along the route later with Marie on their own mission. Mark waited until we had set off and then went.

Starting at 6am I was surprised at the amount of other people who had also chosen to do this and I was quite grateful that some of them were going at a similar pace to me, so when we were going through the muddy section at the start there was always a bit of company and chatter around me. Picking up the Peddars Way route after a few miles was nice as I recognised it from earlier in the year and I didn’t lose my way as I had worried I would. Coming down towards the main road at Holme, my mum and dad were there which was such a lovely boost. Getting to Holme and then fairly much all the way along the route there was a horrific headwind which really sapped my energy and I found myself power-walking a lot more than I’d have liked, but it was needed. The wind was absolutely relentless in places and at a direction that it was hardly ever behind!

Getting to the hall at Burnham Overy Staithe was good as there was a proper loo to use! A quick use of the facilities and grabbing my drop-bag with headtorch and extra items in for the latter part of the run, I was in and out quite quickly. Knowing that I would see mum and dad at Wells, I gave them my bag so I didn’t have to carry it for quite so long and off I went again. The bank from Burnham Overy was blustery but had a lovely surprise in the form of Ana, David and his girls. They cheered my name which lead to others also doing it, another lovely boost.

On the back path from the dunes towards Lady Annes drive, I felt a bit sick again but kept on going and sipping some drink so as not to become dehydrated. I’d noticed my hands were swollen so I tried to keep them moving to ease it off a little. Getting to the car park at Wells, my mum and dad were there with the anticipated Mr. Whippy! 🙂 It was good, but I couldn’t stomach it all. I walked along the bank with mum, promising her that if I still felt bad I would stop. Getting to Wells and along the way, there were quite a lot of people walking who were asking what event we were doing which was nice.

Getting to Wells and having two cheer crews was fab, so thank you Paula, Vicki, Kevin, Evette, Chris, Ceri and Tim.

A lovely chap on the quay also had a cola ice-pop which was gratefully received. It was much easier to stomach than the ice cream.  Leaving Wells led onto the marshes and as ever, the angry music came out. There is just something about that stretch!! Coming up towards Stiffkey (the first timed cut-off which closed at 17:45) I realised that my mileage calculations were incorrect, for once in my favour and I actually had 7 less miles to do than I’d thought. This improved my mood so much as by that point I was fed up with the wind, the sun and the hard-packed stony paths! The angry music had helped as well. 😄 I left Stiffkey at 16:30 so was very happy with myself.

Stiffkey to Cley (the next timed cut-off and last checkpoint) was a bit of a blur, except I got myself into a small muddle navigating my way through the grounds of the windmill and then I was on the bank and couldn’t think where the check-point was. Being on the bank and seeing various cars and vans on the road below panicked me into thinking that I had been in the wrong spot for the check-point. I gave Kerrie a quick call to confirm where the check-point was and to reassure myself. The wind made hard work for conversation but it was so nice to hear her voice. Also good to see Chris L drive past and give a wave to as well. 🙂  Thank you too to Lucy H who made a solo special trip out to Morston quay to cheer. I was chatting to a lady who I was running with at the time and explaining that Morston was the finish for the coastal marathon so I expected to see banners there. I didn’t not expect to see Lucy there but it was a fantastic surprise – thank you. 🙂

The marshals at Cley were complimentary about my drop bag and another speedy turnaround meant I hit the shingle beach, still with a face full of wind! Ironically, as much as my feet were hurting by then the shingle was much nicer on my feet as there was a bit of give. The other bonus of the shingle was that with the incessant wind, I didn’t keep getting sand in my face – every cloud and all that! I also had to put my jacket on as it was starting to get chilly now the sun had gone down and it was so exposed, my pace was also slower as well so knew I’d feel bad if I didn’t do the sensible thing. I also decided to play the alphabet game again which I’d done earlier into the run but I was getting frustrated with myself as I couldn’t remember an actors name; I must have looked very random stomping along the shingle yelling ‘Richard’ and yet I still can’t remember who I was trying to remember!

I ended up stomping along with another runner which was really nice and then she was getting chilly so she went off and I carried on stomping. Getting into Sheringham was a relief as I was finally back on smooth flat tarmac. Managed another run and then got yelled at – another runner had spotted that I’d missed the turning to take us off the prom and towards the dreaded Beeston Bump and called me back – luckily I hadn’t
gone too far past so a quick double back and on again. Having never been to Beeston Bump before, all I had heard was how hilly it was. Sadly, the rumours were true.  I had heard that there are steps on the hill which are useful, but when the step comes up to your knee you know it’s going to be a struggle regardless of how far you’ve travelled to get there 😂. Reaching the top and knowing I had to go through the area for the tracker to register I was careful, no way did I want to be disqualified for not registering through that point! Down the other side and up a quiet lane, over the train track and onto glorious grass for the finish line. So grateful to Kerrie, Marie and Lucy for waiting for me to finish (plus partners and children!) and then we waited for Nur who wasn’t too far away either. ❤️ 

So that’s four out of the six events complete so far and looking forward to the last two knowing that the toughest one is done.

Thank you to everyone who messaged, tracked, supported and generally took time out of your day to be the awesome RNTS crew we all know and love.

Kirsty xx

Official Results
100K
Lucy M – 14:21:03
Kirsty L – 15:10:50
Nur – 15:34:04

50K
Marie – 07:37:47
Kerrie – 07:45:37

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A trinity of top efforts – The Lap, Holt 10k & Cambridgeshire Track and Field

The Lap

It was early June 2022 when (possibly after one too many ciders) I made the decision to attempt to run my first ultra marathon. I’d obviously been doing some browsing online which had alerted the Facebook algorithm to keep spamming me with posts for The Lap. This was advertised as an entry level 47 mile low route (oh,the irony) around Windermere, which takes place in May and September. The May race follows the route clockwise, which is supposed to be the easier option due to where the climbs are located, and the September route follows the route anticlockwise. Having remembered reading that it’s a good idea to find a race that inspires you I thought, what’s not more inspiring than running around England’s biggest lake? and signed myself up for the May 2023 race.

Towards the end of February 2023 I was struggling with hip pain and was concerned with how the training was going so made the decision to defer until 2024. When I realised the 2024 race would fall on the day of my 47th birthday I thought 47 miles for 47 years must be fate, or as I later discovered bloody foolish!  Honestly the pub is a much more reasonable birthday option.

As it turns out this wasn’t going to be my first Ultra as I ended up doing the Weavers Way 50km in October 2023.

Fast forward to this year and I’d managed my highest ever four months of mileage in training so felt – somewhat naively – prepared and ready to go. I was equal parts excited and absolutely bricking it. I’d booked a caravan for the weekend at a nearby holiday park so had convinced Em and Summer to come along for the ride.

Registration was open 19:00 to 23:00 on the Friday night where I had to collect my race number, map, tracker and have a kit check to make sure I’d got the required kit in my bag. This was an incredibly smooth process which helped settle the nerves and the stunning scenery backed up the assumption that this was going to be a beautiful route. By the time we arrived back at the caravan it was getting on for 22:00, so I decided to try and get some sleep as I need to be up at 03:30 to eat and get to the start for the 05:50 race briefing. Sleep wasn’t great (it never is for me before a race) and it didn’t help having to chase the biggest ever beetle which was flying around the caravan at midnight sounding like a helicopter. Waking up just before the alarm went off I got up and set about sorting out some Heinz spaghetti on toast with cheese. Ever since this was recommended to me by Lucy for long run fuel it’s never let me down.

Breakfast eaten, dressed and gone to the toilet for the third time – apologies if a bit too much info – I was in the car with the sunrise and heading to the start.

We’d been promised a lake inversion the night before, with a nice mist expected to be rising from the lake, but on arrival there was no mist and you could already start to feel the warmth from the sun.  It was going to be hot. At the race briefing we were reminded that ultra running, for the majority, is walking dressed as runners. We were also told that they were expecting the course record to be beaten which it was by both the Male, Joel Jameson (07:27:22) and female, Lucy Gossage (07:57:41) winners.

Everyone self seeded themselves into position – firmly at the back for me –  and the air horn was blown to start the race with a lone bagpiper playing. I found the start quite emotional as I knew, after nearly two years, whatever was to now happen I’d finally made it to the start.

The first mile was a nice plod with a long line of people walking/shuffling alongside the banks of the lake as there was a stile about a mile up which was causing a bottle neck. I started chatting to a gentleman next to me who informed me that he’d run half of it in September before pulling out and was determined to complete the other half today. I thought this was supposed to be entry level not the kind of run where we set ourselves the target of halfway.

Once over the stile it was down a nice country lane before shortly hitting what was to be one of many climbs for the day. This was a series of various steps up through some woodland at what seemed like a near vertical angle. It was also at this point that I fell over for the first time of the day, it wasn’t to be the last.

At the top and there was a nice bit of gentle downhill over varying terrain before arriving at the first aid station in Far Sawry. The spread laid out before me was nothing short of incredible and, after having some cheese, a couple of cookies and a jam baguette washed down with coke, I filled up my near empty water bottles and cracked on. The next few miles were lovely with some gentle accents and descents over rolling hills and past a few smaller lakes before hitting the steep climb up to the top of Latterbarrow. It was at this point that I realised no matter how many times I’d run up the Drift this was going to be on a whole different level. It was also at this point that I cracked out the hiking poles and they stayed out for the rest of the day.

Stopping at the top to catch my breath I admired the view whilst trying not to think about the two big climbs to come. The descent from Latterbarrow was almost as tough as the climb up trying to negotiate the rocky path down without falling. After the initially steep section this then turned into some nice lanes as we ran down into the second aid station at Skelwith Bridge. It was here that I discovered the joy of orange segments and demolished a handful of these with another cookie, some peanut butter and jam sandwiches and a bit of malt loaf. Again this was all washed down with a good few cups of coke and the water bottles refilled. I was starting to worry about hydration. Those that know me will know how much of a sweaty runner I am and at this point the “hat drip” had gone from one, to two, to three and then promptly stopped. My t-shirt had also gone from being soaking wet to completely dry. I fetched the extra water bottle I’d stashed in my bag and filled that which gave me 1.5 litres until the next aid station. Unfortunately there was the two biggest climbs before I’d arrive at this and by the time I arrived I was well and truly broken.

Leaving Skelwith Bridge there was an initially gentle climb up a county lane but looming in front of me was what I could only guess was Loughrigg Fell and I knew we had to go up and over this. The path up to the top was winding and steep and I had to take plenty of rests to catch my breath and stop my head from spinning. All the while I was trying to forget about the fact that this was the easiest of the two big climbs, the second of which was right after I ‘d come all the way down from Loughrigg. The views from the top were again stunning and I was a bit disappointed that any pictures I took didn’t seem to do justice to how steep the ascent was. After stopping at the top for far too long I started on the descent which consisted of a steep track down into Ambleside.

Coming through Ambleside I was desperate to find either a pub or a shop as my water was running low. As I walked past a climbing shop the owner let me know that there was a lovely cafe next door, the only problem being that it was up two flights of stairs. Dragging myself upstairs I bought 2 bottles of ice cold water and a can of coke to try and help me get up Wansfell Pike.

It was as I was leaving Ambleside to start the climb up to Wansfell Pike that I decided to quit, for the first time. I was feeling incredibly flaky and was having a mild panic that I’d require a full on rescue operation from halfway up. I thought that turning around and heading back to Ambleside seemed to be the sensible option as I’d be able to get a taxi back to the start, hand in my tracker and stick to the flats of Norfolk that I’m used to. After a sit down and a stern talking to myself I tried to push on until at least the halfway checkpoint at Troutbeck.

The next few hours weren’t pretty. The climb up to the top of Wansfell Pike was steeper and longer than Loughrigg. For me it consisted of walking for a couple of minutes then sitting/lying down trying to stop my head from spinning and resisting the urge to go to sleep. Upon finally making it to the top there was slightly kinder section across a ridge to the highest point of the race at Baystones. I’d well and truly made up my mind by now that I was done. I was going to make it down to the halfway point at Troutbeck and hopefully secure a lift back to the start. I was remembering the conversation at the start of the race and thought making it over the two biggest climbs was a fair achievement and there was no point completely breaking myself in the process. Yep I was definitely done as I headed into Troutbeck. Then an annoying nagging feeling told me you’ve got one shot at this. Initial goals may have long fallen out the window but I hadn’t just dragged myself over those past two climbs to go home with nothing to show for it. We’d been given a t-shirt at registration and I knew I wouldn’t be able to wear it if I didn’t finish. On arrival at the halfway checkpoint, being about 32km into a 78km race actually falls well before halfway,  I’d managed to agree with myself I was going to have a cup of tea and see how I felt. With cup of tea in hand I also discovered that you can shove Twiglets into a mini Battenburg and then plug the ends with cheese, trust me it’s a thing! There was also the benefit of a pizza truck at this aid station so I managed to force two slices of pizza down me. Whilst eating the pizza another runner, who I’d been passing on and off climbing up Wansfell, sat down next to me and proclaimed he was out. He was shivering, despite the heat, and said he was freezing cold due to dehydration. Not wanting to suffer the same fate I told one of the marshal that I was pretty sure I was done too. His reply was that it was only 8km to the next aid station so why not try and at least get to there. He also told me that I’d done the worst of it but I didn’t like the fact that, when I asked him where it went from here, he pointed and said, ‘you see that hill over there…’  As it turned out the hill he’d pointed to wasn’t too bad a climb and, once at the top, there was a nice flat section down some quiet roads for a few km which gave me a real boost. On leaving these roads over a stile (purely the devil’s work) I noted a sheep’s skull sat on top of the wall. About two minutes after this one leg went into a deep rut sending the other leg and arms into a nice boggy section and I was brought, quite literally, back down to earth with a bump.

Although only 8km to the next aid station this stretch seemed to go on forever before finally coming across a gazebo in the middle of a field manned by what can only be described as angels. They filled my bottles, made sure I was fed and watered and when I decided again that I was going to quit managed to convince me that trying to get to the next aid station would be a better option. I stocked up on food as I knew that the next aid station was water only and got ready to head into the night.

It all becomes a bit of a blur from this point on. There was another climb up to Gummers How which was through a boggy wood in the dark. I remember having a stand off with what I was convinced was the biggest beetle I’d ever seen sat on the path in front of me. After a good minute I realised it was a frog. The top of Gummers How was a bit of a low point as I had to lie down to try and prevent myself from being sick. After managing to hold down my stomach contents I pushed on and caught up with a lady called Kat, who was having a bit of a panic about the descent having hurt her ankle. We stuck together for the next 10km or so before she dropped out with about 10km to go as her ankle was hurting too much. I’ve since found out she’d actually broken it en-route. We also caught up with a couple of guys who’d completed it before. When one of them dropped out just before the final aid station as he couldn’t face any more hills I knew it wasn’t going to be a nice easy finish.

Coming up to the final aid station at Finsthwaite there was another particularly nasty climb through a wood which was a real struggle. On arriving at the aid station I asked for a cup of tea with milk and sugar. They didn’t flinch when my reply to, ‘how many sugars?’ was, ‘make the spoon stand up’. I knew at this point I had about 9km to go but at my current pace this was going to take a good few hours still. The one thing I knew on leaving the final aid station was that I was going to finish this. Sure it may have taken me many more hours than I’d initially planned but a finish was a finish.

Those final 9km weren’t pretty and seemed to throw everything at me, more hills, brambles, trees to climb over, boggy bits and treacherous downhill sections which would have been a challenge even in daylight with fresh legs, and I hate to think how many swear words were uttered but I pressed on just wanting to finish this thing now. With one final tree to climb over and the sun starting to rise I finally saw the finish line. At 04:14 on Sunday the 12th of May after 22 hours 13 minutes and 17 seconds I crossed the finish line. Handed my finishers medal and beer I limped across to the car, sat down and sobbed. I couldn’t believe what I’d achieved and that after nearly two years since signing up I’d actually finished. I came so close to quitting that day on many occasions and had to get my head out of some dark places along the way but I’d done it, never – and I repeat, never – for me to try it again.

Although as I’m sat here reflecting on it writing this down there’s another of those nagging feelings that’s saying another shot in 2026 sounds like a plan. Just don’t tell the wife.

Andy P


The start line


Early morning views


The top of Latterbarrow


The impending climb of Loughrigg Fell

Holt 10k

I did Holt 10k last year and really enjoyed the route and being such a local race, it’s a really nice one to do.  So signed up again this year.

With a 10 o’clock start, Kerrie and I didn’t have to leave home too early, which is always a bonus.  We arrived at Holt and met up with the other RntS runners and supporters.

It had been a wet morning and we were expecting a wet race, however luckily the rain stayed away, although it was still a warm morning.

The route starts at Gresham school and heads off with a nice downhill start towards the  garden centre.  Just before the garden centre, you are sent left down a track to meet the small country roads. The roads are not closed, but the traffic is sparse and didn’t cause a problem.

It was good to see Paul and Libby along the route cheering us on. Mark and Vikki were out on the route too, supporting everyone.

At mile 4 the route turns very undulating, with a lovely downhill which can only mean one thing, there was a sharp uphill which I admit was a struggle.  The route then takes you back towards the school with the lovely downhill start being in reverse back to the finish.  It was great to see so many RntS supporting at the finish and cheering us to the finish line. The support from others makes such a difference on a race and is very much appreciated.  Thank you everyone.

David C

Official Results:
Ant – 00:40:20.2
David C – 00:41:27.3
Alex – 00:43:40.4
Ellis – 00:45:04.4
Rob J – 00:45:59.1
Will – 00:46:33.8
Kevin S – 00:47:52.6
Andrew T – 00:48:01.0
Matt – 00:49:54.8
Paula – 00:51:00.6
Gemma – 00:51:25.3
Evette – 00:54:04.5
Seb – 00:59:04.7
Nita – 01:03:33.4
Chris L – 01:03:42.3
Vicki – 01:13:36.3

Cambridgeshire Track and Field

I ran the 3000m in the Cambridgeshire track and field championships last Wednesday at St Ives.

Its 7.5 laps.of the track, there was a mild head wind down the home straight and first bend and luckily the rain held off.

I got a 17 second seasons best which was only set 10 days prior.

Sometimes when you don’t feel race ready mentally and physically, that’s when your best runs come, and today was one of those days for me.  As it’s a championship event, athletes have to run for their first claim club, so I was representing Ryston Runners.

I was 1st vet 35, mirroring the same achievement in the Norfolk County Championships earlier in May.

Cat F-W

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Peddars Way Ultra

Peddars Way Ultra – it was a long way 😉

Although the event was nearly two weeks ago, this is the joy of long distance running – different memories of the day keep popping into your head, some that make you laugh (ironically the queue for the gents loos was longer than the ladies), the wows and the highs; some parts of the run that you’d completely forgotten about in the days previous then surface again. Before the start of our day out we had seen the ponies galloping over Knettishall Heath – start line for the last ever Peddars Way ultra hosted by Positive Steps, first time for Kerrie and I taking it on and a return trip for Lucy to compete & complete for the 3rd time.

Originally a 48 mile course, a 3 mile diversion was put in place due to the river at the start being impassable. This did mean that they took out the run to the beach and back at the end but also the final route being just over 50 miles! Due to the diversion, we were treated to seeing some husky racing which looked fun as we made our way through the cabins at Elveden Park.

The first half is slightly easier underfoot with the second half being quite undulating. Fortunately it wasn’t quite as muddy as when we had done a previous route recce as that would have added a whole new dimension, especially once it got dark.

The bonus for a long run is that for those runners who run at a more leisurely pace mean they get to spend extra time with their chosen run buddies and I’m so grateful Kerrie chose me. We kept each other going and supported all the way to the finish line. Lots of inane chat along the way made the dark bits a little less spooky; as the visibility wasn’t so good, all our other senses seemed to kick in and made you feel ultra alert! (No pun intended!)

The checkpoints along the way were well stocked and at Castle Acre I collected my bag which I’d put some nice snacks in to keep us going over the second ‘half’. As we were tight on time rather than doing my original plan of swapping stuff over I just grabbed my bags, chucked in a few extras from their supplies and then carried it with me for the remainder of the run 🤣 Lots of offers to take my bag but I wasn’t giving up all my lovely snacks!

Long distance runs also make you even more grateful to all the supporters, whether they are tracking from the sofa around their own days activities or those who tracked and found us out in the beautiful Norfolk countryside. Knowing someone has taken time out of their day and made the effort to keep an eye on you, bring potential mood lifting goodies and to keep you grinning and gritting your teeth to keep digging and not giving up makes the absolute world of difference – thank you all ❤️

‘When your legs get tired, run with your heart’.

Kirsty, Kerrie and Lucy x

Official Results:
Lucy – 10:48:42
Kirsty L –  12:29:10
Kerrie – 12:29:19
(Note: Kirsty and Kerrie crossed the line holding hands, so times should actually be the same.)