Breaking in the Highlanders

After a slow couple hours around the 1/2 mara course last night with
W, I headed out to the Ironbark Basin for some trail running today.
It was too hot for the dogs so ran solo. Had the new Montrails on:
Highlanders. Not bad. I stashed the camelbak at the top of the
Jarosite track to give them a good test on the down hill (bit hard to
go full tilt with 5kgs on the back). Went hard over some really
tricky steep technical stuff and they hung in there. They are low
profile so you can really feel the trail. And great traction. I jog/
walked back up and did it again it was so much fun. Gave a litle
knowing nod of approval and went back up to collect the pack. Did 3
1/2 hours straight out of the box with no problems. A little narrow
in the toe box put a little pressure on the little toes (worse
because the Injinjis spread the toes) but not enough to worry about.
Will be perfect for 6' and Maroondah. Wouldn't use them for anything
longer because of the lack of protection and support. They will be my
new short course racing runner. Had a great run. The fatigue from C2K
is slowly leaving the legs but the glutes are still really tight.
Must get another massage: ouch!

2008 plan

Well into 2008 and I don't really have a plan for the year (apart
from trying to beat Dog). The draw for Hardrock is on next weekend.
I'm not optimistic of getting in again but if I do that will shape my
year. I am already obsessing over it and trying to build my mileage
up slowly with a view to getting a solid base. I have entered
Maroondah 50(+) in 3 weeks but plan to run that conservatively. Six
foot is another 3 weeks after that. I would like to have a good dip
at 6', especially with the inevitable beer bet floated. Beyond that
things are sketchy. So a confirmation, either way, from the Hardrock
draw will help.

Otway trails

I tried to blog this entry earlier in the week with a really cool pic
of the up-turned bridge but it wouldn't load. Of course my blog-
master is off on a beach in the south pacific so I guess I'll have to
do without the pic. It's hard to get good help these days.

Headed down to the Otway National Park for some trail running last
Friday. Picked up my 14 y/o daughter from her holiday house in Lorne
to introduce her to some serious trail running. We went out to
Sheoaks Picnic ground and hit the Castle Rock track. It was supposed
to be an 8 km loop down to the coast and back. Due to a track closed
sign diverting us, we ended up doing the loop in reverse. Steep
climbing saw us reach the ridge within a couple of kms with views
across to the ocean. I was giving L some tips on downhill trail
running when we startled a big koala by the track. He scurried up a
tree and stopped about 2m up to check us out. I got L to stand
alongside for a photo. She was a little freaked being so close. We
were soon descending steeply towards the Swallow Cave and I left L
and skipped down the technical part of the trail. After crossing the
creek we discovered that the trail we wanted to use to get back was
the closed track. L was already feeling tired after an hour of surf
paddle training in the morning and a carnival the next day. So
retracing our steps up over the ridge wasn't an attractive option. So
I convinced her that the closure was probably pretty benign. So off
we went. Another close encounter saw a bush wallaby scare the crap
out of us by crashing off through the bush alongside the track. It
was good running along the valley and we were getting close to the
end when we rounded a bend to find the footbridge turned on its side,
literally. I knew L was really tired when she barely hesitated
following me precariously across. It added a little interest to the
end of a fun little trail run. We went for a soy-berry-smoothie
before I dropped her home and went back out for another little run
over the Kalima Falls track. It is a really great area for trail
running.

B2H Report

B2H Jan 6, 2008 by Andrew Hewat

 

People used to whisper about Bogong to Hotham in hushed tones. It was the ultimate trail ultra, deemed unattainable by all but a few. B2H has now moved into the mainstream but it is no less intimidating. It is no less daunting. It is no less an achievement. It is still the toughest trail ultra, mile for mile in the country. There are still over 3000 metres of elevation gain. There are still huge climbs up Staircase, Duane and Swindlers Spurs. There are still miles of rutted singletrack, too narrow and deep for running across the high plains. There are still miles of ankle twisting technical trail. There are still breath-taking panoramic vistas across the Australian Alps. Those who have finished it don't necessarily use hushed tones anymore, but they do talk of it with the reverence and respect that it deserves. They talk of it with a sense of achievement, like a passing of rites. This run has it all: climbing, descending, technical trail, open plains, thick, impenetrable bush, river crossings, and spectacular views. This run is still the ultimate trail run. This run is the Rooftop Run, across the top of Australia.

 

So what has changed? The early start options, which effectively extend the cut-off times, allowing more runners to get through. For good or for bad, I took the earliest start at 5am with a huge contingent making the most of the extra time. Tim, Spud and I had planned to run together given we were all just 4 weeks out from finishing Coast to Kosciusko, and clearly none of us would be recovered. We settled in at the back of the pack as it shuffled along the fire trail and then fed, conga-line style onto the first little footbridge across a creek. Bang, down went a bloke at the front of the line and his yell clearly belied a badly rolled ankle. He furtively waved everybody past, refusing offers of help. I was last and would not pass until he was up. I helped him to his feet and it was obvious he couldn't go on so I offered to help him back to the start, less than 1 km away. He reluctantly accepted, concerned for my race, but not able to weight bear he had little choice. Leaning heavily on me we started hobbling back to the start. Tim came back to see where I had gone. He started to help as well but this was too much for the bloke and he decided he could make it on his own and sent us on our way. I found out later that he bad broken his ankle and I felt pangs of guilt for not persisting to help him all the way back.

 

We had lost some time but were soon pushing hard up the Staircase. Despite the sun not even being up, it was already getting hot. I took a swig of water and spat it out. Oh god, my carbo solution had gone bad. (It had taken me 12 hours to get to Mountain Creek the previous day with no less than 5 breakdowns during which the fridge in my Kombi would have been off for hours and heating up. I had been concentrating on just getting there and overlooked a lot of other things.) I couldn't drink it. Worse, I was clearly already dehydrated from the long hot day driving up and now I was sweating profusely. We got to Bivouac Hut after an hour and a half and I found the water tank. I dumped my bad mix and had a huge guzzle of the tank water and refilled my bottle. Refreshed, I took off to catch up with Tim.

 

My favourite point on the course is where you clear the trees for the first time and you can see all the way to Mt Kosciusko. The endless line of mountain peaks steals my breath. Out in the open above the tree line there were runners everywhere. We were already being passed by 5:30 am starters, and catching some from our start. Spud was waiting for us at the summit. Just over 2 hours. We took off on the rolling singletrack through the low alpine grass towards Cleve Cole Hut. I passed Sean here like on several other occasions, the first of which we went on to run the whole way together, beating the old 5:30 cut-off. Not today. This was the last I saw of the big man.

 

I made good time to Cleve Cole, glad to be able to run after all the climbing. I refilled my other bottle as Spud came through. We skipped on down to the creek at Madison Hut site. I drank again from the creek, trying to catch up on lost fluids. We waited for Tim. A few other runners came through and we started to worry. And still we waited. I could tell Spud was already thinking of the cut. Then Tim arrived to a barrage of abuse, friendly of course, and we were off. He muttered something about only having one speed.

 

We wound back into the bush and climbed a little before the real descent to Big River started. This was my fifth time down T-Spur and I have never seen it so overgrown. The bushfire regrowth had created a car wash effect as you plummeted down the trail blindly. I passed a few runners including Dave, who I knew would be trying to stay in front of me. Then I went for a spectacular fall. Got up took off and went over again. After the third fall I decided I would back off a little and settled in behind another runner until we hit the river. About 3 1/2 hours.

 

It was like Bourke St. Or Pitt St. Or whatever your busy street is called. There were runners all over the place. Some were taking off their shoes and socks, some on the other side were putting them back on. Some like Milov were shimmying very precariously across the narrow log on all fours. Dave and Spud arrived and ploughed straight through. We breed em tough in Mellum. I walked across the log, preferring the dry option. Tim caught up and we were soon climbing again. The track was overgrown but at least this offered some shade from the now baking sun. Dave and Spud pulled away and eventually I left Tim. I was feeling tired and my glutes ached but I wanted to get to the top.

 

Roper's Hut site was another checkpoint. They waved me through. Tim caught up and we ran out into the open high country. The bush opens onto an endless plain of alpine heath and rolling hills swathed in wildflowers. The wide track wound off to the horizon, peppered with the odd runner. Warby Corner is always a welcome respite. Fresh water, lugged in by race organiser, Mike Grayling. And oranges, the wonder food. How important are the volunteers and organisers for the success of this run?

 

We made good time around to the track junction where you hit the singletrack back through bush to Langford Gap. There was a gaggle of bushwalkers heading out and they stepped off the track and clapped us through. I made an enforced pit-stop and Tim ran ahead. The aqueduct track always seems to go on forever. I was feeling nauseous and very low on energy and was so relieved to see the aid station. Just over 6 1/2 hours, very close to the cut.

 

John welcomed me in and Olga sorted my bottles. Tim teased me with his raspberry icy-pole. Oh, where did you get that? Mel appeared with one for me as well. How good was that? Tim took off, worried about the Omeo Rd cut-off. I forced down some cold baked-beans and some ginger beer and grabbed my icy-pole and walked out. I walked while I digested but then just couldn't get running again. I was getting foggy about how much time I had and tried to get some running going. Past a sign that read: Cope Hut 1km. Oh crap, I'm going to miss the cut. I broke into a run, past the hut and there was the aid station with people watching on helplessly as my time was slipping away. It was up-hill but I was running hard, regardless. Through the gate and I was there. Tim, believing I had missed the cut, took off. After quickly consulting with the powers-to-be, Paul waved me on. I fairly sprinted up the track passing someone, running on adrenaline, until I caught Tim as well and ran right past him. I looked back. I could see the sweeps leaving the checkpoint. That was way too close.

 

We ran together, walked together and chatted our way across the plains. A huge herd of brumbies grazed nonchalantly as we jogged by. We could see other runners ahead of us and seemed to be catching them. Pole 333 checkpoint in the middle of nowhere marked a hard left turn. I could see Dave and Spud in profile in the distance but we just couldn't reach them. And Milov, characteristically all dressed in black. I don't know how when I could feel my neck getting sunburned. The crisp breeze kept the temperature down and the flies at bay. As we started the long descent into Cobungra Gap, we passed two blokes and a lady we had been following for an hour. We leapfrogged a couple of times until Tim and I sat down for a little rest. "Let me introduce you to my friend: the little sit-down," Tim had said. I welcomed his friend, wholeheartedly. In fact I didn't want to leave him.

 

Once we were up again I was slow to get moving and the nausea that had been plaguing me kept me to a shuffle. Tim pulled away, and I told him not to wait for me. At Dibbens Hut, I willingly took my ration of water. The trio were there but Tim had gone. I struggled with the heat climbing Swindler's. Take 10 steps then rest. Take another 5 and rest again. All the way to the top. Mal came up behind me, startling me. He had taken the 6:15 start and flirted with the cut-offs but was making good time overall. Towards the top I passed the 2 blokes minus the lady who had left them on the climb. We leapfrogged some more and passed a limping runner before Derrick Hut. I was beyond food now and the oranges were all gone so I just grabbed some water and kept going.

 

Winding through the ski runs of Mt Hotham I could see Tim up ahead. I had no desire or energy to try and catch him. I just wanted to finish. I just wanted it to end. It became a solemn slog along the blue-metal roads until the climb up to the car-park. In a cruel twist we then have to run further up the road and climb the final track to the real summit. I pulled my phone out and turned on the music: Bocelli's Con Te Partiro. It overwhelmed my raw senses. I remembered my first finish here with Sean and how much pain I had been in. I remembered the sheer exhilaration in conquering this iconic run. I let that feeling wash over me. As the classic operatic music filled my ears, the wind whipped across the landscape and the sun shone hard on my face. The small gathering of organisers, radio operators, helpers, families and runners all started clapping as I reached the summit. I was overwhelmed again and bowed to touch the rocky monument and join that growing list of ultra runners who will continue to talk of Bogong to Hotham in the revered tone that it deserves. I love this run.  

B2H

I have run enough really long stuff that I generally don't get too
stressed about approaching ultras these days. I can still get a
little grumpy (very unusual for me normally) in the week before,
especially if I am carrying an injury and it is one of the big ones.
But I have to say that running Bogong to Hotham still scares the crap
out of me. I have been there 4 times for 1 complete distance finish.
2 of those failures were caused by bad ITB injuries forcing me out at
Langford's Gap. The third was bad pacing on a day when I reckon I was
as fit as I've been for this one. But this week I have been so
stressed about Bogong. Maybe it is knowing that C2K is in my legs
still? Maybe it is the extra pressure of so many people running it?
Maybe because it is so open on CR these days? Nah, that doesn't
usually worry me. I think it is just the enormity of it. Not the
distance or the time. Just the sheer intensity of the terrain,
challenged by the time cut-offs. I would hate to be chasing the old
5:30 cut-off. I reckon I could do it but I would be totally flogged
for the back half. I guess that's what's disappointing about the
extra time allowance. It was a real test to get through the first
half inside the cut but then you still had to get out and finish it.
And I still rate Swindler's Spur as the toughest climb of the day.
Now with all the extra gear and weight it will be worse.
But when you punch through the bushes approaching the summit of
Bogong and the endless panoramic vista of the alps unfolds before
you, it is all worth while. I really want to finish this one. And get
back in one piece.

Year in review

Well I kind of lost the plot with the monitoring of my progress leading
into Western States. I guess this is one of the many reasons why I
never started a blog. The injury interrupted lead-up to States didn't
help things. There was a lot of angst and a lot of time spent walking
and doing rehab. But I figured it would be good to do a little
summation of the year as a record of what can only be described as a
good running year.

January: Really primed for a big tilt at B2H but the massive bush-fires
forced the cancellation. Brendan knocked together a Fatass 2 Bays of
around 54km across the Mornington Peninsula. Had a steady, solid run
and met a few new faces.

February: The closest thing to my local race: Maroondah Dam 50+. I was
feeling strong off the back of the high (for me) mileage I was using to
build a base for States. I didn't taper but that didn't seem to hurt
too much. I found myself in the lead in the first couple of kms and
managed to lead everyone into a dead end on the overgrown trail. That
pushed me to the back of the field. With the big climbs up to the 10km
mark I worked through the field, powering up the hills. I didn't
realise I was in second place behind Rob Grey and chased him down for
the company. We leapfrogged for most of the run before David Eaddie
changed gears up the back somewhere and came steaming past. I flew down
Mt St Leonard, determined to hold onto second place. It was a small
field but there were some good runners in the pack so I was pretty
happy with a podium finish and the trophy clock. It was a PB on this
course, despite getting lost at the start.

March: Six Foot Track. A fun weekend catching up with everyone. Went
out fairly solidly, again off high mileage and no taper. Was at the
front of the second wave by the stairs and held a good pace to the
river. Ran with Dog early on but he is very unsociable when racing,
especially when he is struggling. He had Uncle Dave pacing him to no
avail. Sean passed him on the stairs at Caves for one of the moments of
the year. I lost a lot of places trying to take it easy climbing Pluvi.
Started cramping on Black Range Rd again. Spud came past and I ran with
him for a while until cramps got me again. Managed to keep him in sight
until the big down hill and finished just in front of him. Another PB.
I would like to have a crack with proper prep someday.

April: My favourite run: the Prom 100. Some would say I did a Bradbury.
I say running these bush ultras involves more than just running. I ran
my own race and enjoyed the scenery. When I got back to the camp after
80km they told me there were only 2 runners still ahead of me and they
had only left 12 minutes ago. That was my quickest check-point stop
ever. And I ran like a man possessed for the last 20km. I had a bad
fall and my knee kept locking up but I wasn't backing off. It was also
the scene for my famous headlight face off at 20 metres: Paul Monks and
I hit the Mt Bishop carpark at the same time from opposite ends (he had
done the loop in reverse). We both switched our lights off at the same
time and the race was on in earnest. I wanted it more and the high
mileage training carried me home strongly. Only downside was the
patellofemoral condition I had developed.

May: Reluctantly flew to Glasshouse for the 50miler. The later start
time of 3am and my knee injury almost kept me at home. But I needed
another long hard run before States. The knee held out for the first 50
odd kms but left me limping home in a respectable but average time.
Spoke to Bill Thomson about Hardrock and resolved to keep my entry and
see how it all went at States before pulling out.

June: Western States Aussie Assault. Fantastic fun trip. Tough run.
Tougher than I expected and I suffered badly through lost fitness and
blistering feet. Slogged it out for an emotional finish. One of those
great runs that I will always remember. And a great road trip with
Mellum.

July: Drove over to the Hardrock territory. Really struggled on the
training run/hikes. Reluctantly decided to cut my losses and pull out.
Could I have made it? Seeing what I achieved over the rest of the year
I have to admit I now wonder if I could have done it. But I remember
how trashed my feet were, how unfit I was at that point, and how my
knee was still an issue. Maybe I should have tried but there is a
strong chance I would have failed and not recovered to complete all the
other great runs of the year.

August: Bellarine Rail Trail 68km. Boring as bat shit but I needed a
solid run and to test out the knee. Came through OK.

September: I really didn't want to do GH this year. But to miss out on
all that goes with it would have been too much. Then I got sick 2 weeks
out and although I recovered I was really depleted and had my worst 100
yet. But I finished and had fun with the Mellum crew.

October: Wow, no ultras? Did I miss something? Only Brindy that I will
never do again. Had some great bush training runs down in the Otway
Ranges. Must get down there more often.

November: GNW. This is a massive run by any standards. I had resolved
to make sure I got Tim home. I wasn't in any form for racing flat out
for time and it turned out to be a great group finish, adding a new
dimension. I love this run.

December: Coast-to-Kosci. Somehow I got sucked into the vortex that is
C2K. I rationaled that this might be my only chance to get the Triple
Crown and that I was in good enough form to finish so now was the time.
I knew I really only had one shot at it. The surface and distance would
do too much damage to my toes to justify ever coming back. So I never
contemplated not finishing. It was a journey, not a race. Tim had the
crew and allowed me to share so it became a team effort. The sense of
satisfaction is hard to describe but it is a run to take with you to
the grave. Either that or it will take you to the grave.

So that was my year.

6 Foot Week

There is so much hype attached to this race I find it hard to resist
taking the piss out of people but I guess I exorcise these desires on
the mellum mail loop.
Hmm, I think Jan summed it up for me when he agreed with my sentiment
that there are way too many people out there on the big day to enjoy
the track as it deserves: why run 6 foot when we have 12 foot, he said?
But I am heading up again next week for another bash. I guess after
struggling in under 5 hours last year with a very limited prep I wanted
to go back and have a better crack at it. So instead I am leading in
off my base build-up for WS. I will still be running out of phase. But
I'm hoping the increased mileage (for me anyhow) will allow me to run
the back half instead of cramping up like last year. I have a goal time
in mind but unless you produce the goods it just doesn't count. I get
annoyed with people saying "I know I'm capable of xxx" or "I was in xxx
form, but...". There is no credibility unless the runs are on the
board. So I want to get some runs on the board or go down trying. Yep,
no holding back. All or nothing. I figure if it's only 45 km I can
still limp in if I blow up spectacularly (as I have done at Maroondah
before). And just maybe my increased base coming off a big year last
year will carry me home. One thing is for sure, if I am still standing
when I get to Caves Road I won't be leaving anything in the tank. I
will be trying to keep the fuel levels up this year and despite hating
gels will carry a few and take them at regular intervals. I will carry
my trusty handheld and start filling with coke after Pluvi. I will try
to keep cooler by leaving the skins at home and wearing a sleeveless
top. And I will be getting as wet as I can at every creek. I will wear
the Tevas which are built to shed water so I will test this to the nth
degree. Splits? I'm tempted to just leave my watch at home but then I
find I can use the pace on the garmin to keep me moving when I tire. I
will decide later. But I will know what splits I am aiming for. This
will likely be my last 6'. I still don't understand all the fuss. As
one of our a popular ultra identities said: it's just a race. Gees, I
would really like to post a good time though.......

Favourite trail and tevas

Made the trip down to the Ironbark Basin for some trail miles in the
heat of the day. I had already put in 1/2 an hour with the dogs down at
the river and wanted to get in around 30kms. I was running very easy
and wearing the heart rate monitor, trying to keep it aerobic, so ended
up walking lots of the hills. I really must get down there more often.
Had it all to myself with the odd echidna and rosella. Pausing on the
cliff top climb out of the basin I looked back over the heavy green
scrub to where I had just been on the ridge. It really is a fantastic
place to run, unpretentious, undiscovered, uncrowded and truly magical.
I was trying out my new Tevas. They handled it really well. I got a bit
of toe rub with the toe-box being a bit narrow but they are really
light and responsive. My legs were a little tired initially after
running late last night but tomorrow will be a rest (weights) day
before another long run on Sunday. But by the end I felt really
comfortable which is a promising sign. Pulled up after 3 1/2 hours. You
gotta love a good run in the bush.

Hardrock

It is hard to describe the feeling I experienced when I opened the list
of qualified entrants for Hardrock 2007. Wendy said she has never seen
me so excited. But there was a healthy dose of fear mixed in there. As
I have said, Hardrock both excites and scares me. It is such a huge
event. To be accepted and actually drawn at the lottery is
unbelievable. It is such a fantastic opportunity. WS will still be my
main focus but I can't help but feel it is dwarfed by the enormity of
HR. My plan is to train for WS as I would have done. But now I have to
be way more focused. And I will need to add some solid walking with a
pack. I have started my base building and have already got my weekly
mileage up to 70-80 km per week which is high for me. The trick is to
maintain this and build in quality slowly without getting injured. I
really want to do well at WS. I am confident that if I stay healthy I
can run a good race. Once WS is over, and presuming I don't come away
injured I will head over to Colorado and hike and camp on the course to
acclimatise. I won't need to run at all but recover and acclimate to
the altitude. Man this is going to be big. No, this is going to be huge.

145 days to go

When you say it like that it can freak you out. Yep, 145 days until
WS100. Shit, I better get organised. I have to do some service of some
sort. I need a new passport, visa, insurance........Oh, and I need to
do some more training. With all the 6' nonsense on CR it is easy to
forget that all these little ultras are just training runs for the big
one. And then there is the added distraction of Hardrock and Kosci
after WS. I need to get some focus back. And some early nights.
Had a split run today. An hour in the morning with Wendy and my eldest
daughter at an easy pace wasn't really enough for the day. So I went
out for another hour and a 1/4 tonight after walking the dogs. It was
surprisingly easy and I found I had to hold myself back as I floated
along the golf course in the waxing moonlight. I am trying to keep my
runs slow and easy to build an aerobic base. And to build a solid base
of mileage. I need to get in some bike miles as well. The little jaunts
into town or to work are not really cutting it. Time. The same old
problem. Making time. Balance. It's all about the balance. And
perspective. I don't want to make hard work of it and lose all the
enjoyment.

Build a base

Slept in this morning so didn't get down the coast for my planned long
run. Managed a solid couple of hours on my local trail and with the
temperature moderate for the first time in weeks, I found myself
pushing a solid pace. I switched to fast walking on the hills as part
of my 6' hill-walk training. It's always a good sign when you finish
feeling better than when you started. So no long run this week but with
2 1/2 hours on Friday backed up with a solid 2 hours today I feel I'm
starting to build that base for later in the year. 4 weeks until
Maroondah which I plan to take fairly conservatively and then just 3
weeks to 6 Foot, where I might have a go. Someone suggested that I go
hard and either A) set a great time or B) crash spectacularly. I really
don't like the taste of those DNF cookies so I think I will settle for
a plan somewhere in between. In fact I reckon if I stick with Spud as
long as I can and then just try to finish off I should do OK. Hang on,
that's starting to sound too much like plan A. Maybe plan C where I
stick with Tim and just outsprint him on the line? :)

Entry is in......

<excerpt><fontfamily><param>Times</param>I have been trail running and
bushwalking pretty much all my life. I am quite comfortable in the
bush with a map and compass. I have backcountry hiked solo for many
years. While I enjoy most trail running my preference is for technical
alpine trail. When I started running ultras I looked at Hardrock as
the ultimate goal but for many years felt it was beyond my
capabilities. Over the last two years I have completed three 100 mile
trail ultras. While the opportunity to run 100 milers (yet alone
mountainous 100 milers) in Australia is obviously very limited, last
November I completed the Great North Walk 100 miler. This is a 108
mile trail race with a 36 hour cut-off. There are only 6 checkpoints
and the course is only minimally marked. This years race was held in
very hot conditions (high 30’s degree Centigrade) necessitating
runners carry up to 3 litres of water, plus food and emergency gear
between checkpoints, which could be up to 5 hours apart. While not run
at altitude, there are 6,200 metres (20,000 ft) of elevation gain and
loss. Of the 28 starters only 10 finished. In those pulling out there
were some very experienced runners including a multiple finisher of
Hardrock (5th place 2001) and several other 100 mile veterans,
including 2 Western States finishers.

When I broke 24 hours at the Glasshouse 100 last September it gave me
great confidence that I could complete Great North Walk 100. When I
completed the Great North Walk 100 miler last November it gave me
great confidence that I could complete Hardrock 100. I feel I have
served my apprenticeship and now want the opportunity to graduate.
Completing Hardrock would for me, be that graduation.

</fontfamily></excerpt>

Along with some personal groveling that I have edited, this forms the
basis of my Hardrock application. Posted today. Where are those dice?

Hardrock entry

I've wanted to run Hardrock for some time. I'm going to be in the
States for WS and flying home just 2 weeks before Hardrock this year.
It seems crazy not to put an entry in just in case I can pull off a
spot in the ballot and get a start. I've just flicked through some guys
photo journal of Hardrock from 2006 and I have to say the course freaks
me out a little. It is definitely one of those runs that both excite
you and scare you at the same time. What if I get an entry? What the
hell, I'll send in my application and just see what happens. It's all
Dave's fault. I was happy to just let it lie for another year but he
put an entry in and put it firmly back on the agenda.

Building a base

The coach has impressed upon me the need for a solid mileage base
leading into 6 Foot Track. I have a reasonable base but my mileage is
still way too low. So I have been adding some length to my regular runs
and plan to include more long runs. My 2 1/2 run today was slower than
usual but I ran 12km last night and I seldom run 2 days in a row. Plus
I did a brutal weight session on Wednesday night. My legs were like
jelly when I finished. I have been more consistent with my weight
regime so am confident the strength is building and hopefully that will
help resist injuries. I also have started the dreaded treadmill uphill
power walking training. If all these come together as planned I should
be in much better shape than last year. The added incentive of the beer
bet has really motivated me to get out there and put in some really
solid work. Hopefully it will pay off on the day.

2 Bays Trail Fatass

Headed across the bay to run Brendan's 2 Bays Fatass in lieu of the
cancelled Bogong. Drove around the night before in a howling gale and
slept at the start in the kombi. Didn't get a lot of sleep due to the
wind but it was much better than getting up at 4am for the 2 hr drive
across. There was a good turn-out for such an impromptu run with about
12 doing the full 55km and another 4 or 5 doing the half. I decided to
carry 2 handhelds despite really only needing one, so that I had the
extra space for my phone and gels on the straps. Carried some food but
didn't eat most of it. There is a huge climb at the start and then some
continuous undulation all the way across the peninsula through some
scenic bush and open heathland. Generally good trail under foot with a
couple of sections of gravel road and short hauls of bitumen. I ran all
the way across with Brendan and we leap frogged 2 Ballarat boys. The
highlight was the snake encounter towards the turn-around. The 2 in
front hadn't seen it but had obviously stood on it or kicked it as it
was raised up to strike as I jumped over it. There was no time to stop
as I was so close behind the others and they were freaking out with my
yelling. In fact my yelling caused them to jump and the snake appeared
to pass through Brian's legs. It was at least 4-5 foot long and very
thick. Needless to say we were very attentive from then on. The 4 of us
arrived pretty close together at the turnaround. Julliet was there with
fruit-cake and water. And I bought a pepsi. I should have bought
another and filled one of my bottles for the return trip. The Ballarat
boys left well ahead of us and when I realised Brendan was traveling a
lot slower than I wanted to, I gave him a wave and took off in pursuit.
I eventually caught them with the aid of the pepsi rush. We had some
cooling rain on the way back and I almost got cold in my bike shirt. I
pulled away from the guys until the sugar wore off and I tripped and
face-planted indignantly. No damage but they ran serenely by. Forced a
GU down and ate all my ginger bears and picked up. Ran them down again
and took off on the long gravel road. I thought they might catch up on
the climb back up to Arthur's Seat but it never happened. Was feeling
really strong by the time I crossed the highest point again and pushed
it hard all the way back to the finish. Took 3:01 out, 10:04 at the
stop, then back in 3:07. Very even split so I am happy with that. If it
hadn't been for the energy lows through lack of food on the way back I
could have easily negatively split the course. Will need to work on
some portable food options for Maroondah and 6'. Rest day monday and
went out for an easy 7.5 km tonight to loosen up. Feeling fit and
healthy so compared to this time last year I am way ahead of the game.
I can almost taste that 6' beer.........mmmmmmmm

2 Bays horizon

Heading across the bay to run Brendan's Fatass 2 Bay Trail 55km on the
weekend. I've been trying to find some new trail shoes to preserve my
supply of montrails for the lead up to WS but no luck. So I will just
wear my leonas. Went out for a couple of hours of trail this morning
and it was stinking hot. I've started using the HR monitor again. I've
decided to get more serious about my training. I figure if I can run
some ok ultras off a little haphazard training I should be able to run
some good ones off a more structured and solid prep. So I'm building
mileage and strength in readiness for some quality work later in the
year. It will make it hard to run fast at the shorter ultras but I am
hoping that my fitness will allow me to run strongly through to the
finish and more than compensate for any loss of speed and freshness. In
fact Tim has thrown down the gauntlet for 6' and wants me to spot him
1/2 an hour for a beer. You know, I reckon I'm a good chance of pulling
it off and it will sure make things interesting. Especially that long
wait at Caves watching the clock tick down.

2006

So I can sign off a fairly successful running year. Started pretty
ordinary with itb problems forcing a dnf at Bogong. The fact that I
hadn't really trained at all meant this was no surprise. Then an
absolute crap run at Maroondah and I was thinking this could be a bad
year. Debuted 6' with a sub 5 hr-beer-bet-winning run that hurt like
hell, but got me back on track. Ran 88 mins in a "training run" at the
local 1/2 marathon. Happy with that. Had an absolute pearler of a run
at the Prom 100 before missing a late turn and adding a few kms and a
couple of hours. But it's hard to beat the Prom runs. I love that
place. Headed north for a cameo appearance at the GH50miler. Ran hard
with Spud and Dom for the first half then limped home on a sore itb for
a good hour pb. What's a few soft tissue issues between friends? For
some unknown reason I then decided to run the GC100 again. I guess the
kids holiday thing combined looked like a good package. Had probably
the worst run of my life and came away with a lasting momento of an
arthritic big toe. That was it for road/track races forever. I now had
a definite WS qualifier and the wait was on. Got the confirmed entry in
July. Lost a good month to the toe. 12' track in August was an
excursion into the familiar territory of ultras on no training. Well,
not quite. Once my toe allowed I had started logging some consistent
miles, albeit low volume, with a wish to avoid ever repeating the GC100
disaster. 12' was a race rather than a run this year. I was unprepared
for the competitiveness and was caught napping. That and some more itb
issues saw me tird to round up the mellum podium still in a pb of 12:20
something. Only 3 weeks until GH100. At least I didn't have a
Trailwalker to worry about. Given my limited prep I had no
expectations. Realistically I hoped to go 25 hours. That would have
been a pb and a good run. 22:38 and finishing with a near sprint over
the last 8 km was beyond my wildest dreams. Gave me endless confidence.
Went to Brindabella to see what everyone raves about. With a bit of an
affinity for down hill runs I thought I would have some fun. Boring
firetrail that pounded my quads and blew out one of my shoes midsoles
leaving me with a trashed achilles. 3 weeks to GNW and the pressure was
on. Tried a 10km run 2 weeks out and couldn't walk the next day. That
was it: no running and intensive rehab and icing for 2 weeks. It was
still tender through GNW but held together and another surprising
success with a finish after 5 weeks of averaging less than 15 km per
week (including Brindy). For the first time I actually thought I
wouldn't mind a crack at Kosci. Not this year, though. Crewing turned
into pacing after Tim pulled up lame and I managed to run/walk with
Spud for the last 90km up the mountain. Good taste for what is needed.
Maybe next year? So I haven't worked out my average mileage but I
wouldn't be surprised if I raced more than I trained. But it worked
when it counted. It confirmed my belief that running ultras is way more
mental than physical. Next year is WS year and everything pretty much
revolves around that. But I'm kicking the year off fitter and healthier
than the last so hopefully I can convert that into some good races.
Starting with 6'. This will be my launching pad. I have filled in my
calendar for the year but I am focused on 6' for now. Time to get
serious. Lets see what can be done when I really put my mind to it.

Fun run

Hammies are a little sore today after the tough session yesterday so
took it easy with just a couple of hours on the bike. Felt good and
cruised through the hills. I think losing those couple of extra kilos
that I've been carrying is really making a difference. That and all the
strength work in the gym is starting to pay off. Tomorrow Wendy makes
her racing debut with the Dawnbuster funrun around town. I haven't run
it since I was a member of the local running club years ago but she
wanted a target to build up to and the 5.5 km was achievable in the
time frame we had. I will run with her as pacer and possibly run home
to get a few more kms in to end the year on a positive note. Roll on
2007.

Focus on 6'

After 6' 2006 I said I wouldn't come back. While I love the course and
the race is really well organised, I had a real problem with the crowd.
I had won the infamous beer bet and gone sub 5 off a very limited prep
so decided to quit while I was ahead. But I've been seduced into a
return visit. And once Bogong was cancelled the deal was sealed. Now I
am focused on producing a good time. The only problem with that is the
associated obligation to train hard. I still have the Maroondah 50
first but I'm pretty much using that as a training run.
So with that in mind I hit the trail again today with a renewed
purpose. Well at least until UCB rang to confer on some important gear
purchase. I pushed the hills and floated that flats with fast turnover.
I was a little tired by the end but had cranked out some quality ks.
The tricky achilles was a little sore once I cooled down but I'm on the
road again. The 2 Bays next weekend will be a good measure of where I'm
at.

Small steps

Short run tonight. Short week at work but still tired. I should be
bursting with energy with all the days off and the build up for Bogong.
I think I overdid the weights. And I was back on the stairs today......