Isle of Wight | Ultra Marathon
Introduction
A few months ago I decided to sign up to the “Round the Island Ultra Marathon – 2012″ –a run around the Isle of Wight, 69 miles in 2 days – a multiday ultra marathon. I had been motivated by a number of talks & films that had taken place at The Showcase Cinema in Sheffield; Sheffield Running Club Member ‘Will Beachamp’ who ran & won the Frostbite 50 in January which sounded just amazing and also by my friend Dan who ran solo 4 marathons in 4 days all amidst my inability to do speed work and being a bit drained by running 10kms over and over again – boooorrring!. I have slow twitching muscle fibres you know.
I was tossing up between the Round the Island Ultra as it is known and The Wall Ultramarthon (Carlisle to Newcastle). However the Round the Island was cheaper, more trail better organised from the XNRG guys and sounded more fun. Being persuaded further with fab twitter follower @starterfour10 I found myself signed up one Sunday evening So that was the beginning of my journey to run around a diamond shaped island for 69 miles over two days. (Garmin maps also available on request).
Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go T.S. Eliot
The event was organised by XNRG. The first day being 38 miles, the second being 31 miles. I had never run further than 32 miles before, never mind 38 then another 31 the following day. Insane at its worst, incredibly refreshing at its best? So…
I decided to go for a little run. Forrest Gump
Great report and great pictures. You did a fantastic job! I apologize for waking you up Sunday morning by walking in your windproof cabin:-). Now take care of those feet for new challenges and exciting adventures!
Thanks, hope you had an enjoyable weekend too, the only thing I would change would be that wind on Saturday evening. I am itching for more now just need to plan it properly to avoid any injuries.
Helen, One of the best reports on one of our events I’ve ever read, thanks.
Brian.
Fab review & blog of your experience helen. Thoroughly enjoyed your thoughts & feelings & the quotes were a great touch too. Great to meet you & look forward to see you out on the trails or roads again. Be great to follow you on twitter I’m @montyjustin
Brilliant, Helen! Great to read; I thoroughly enjoyed your reflections of a fun weekend. Keep on blogging! I’m off to France on Thursday for a 7-day race along the Loire – follow it on secker.blogspot.com.