Having run a fair bit in Yorkshire, I had come across the Dales Way which had triggered my interest. The wonderful rolling Dales and rivers really are stunning even in the rain.
The route itself is 82 miles (not 79 as I mention in the video). I had managed to recce about half of it over the last 3 yrs and it gave me a good feel for the terrain and what might lie in store for attempting the route in one go. This was to be my main focus for 2022, having trained hard for the York marathon in 2021.
Unfortunately, a serious dog bite (whilst out running) hampered the training schedule and I went into the event, my first competitive ultra wondering if it was wise to be attempting it at all.
The temperature that day hit 30 degrees Celsius (86F) and it became more about survival and completion, rather than setting a fast time. After an hour or so the field strung out and I found myself running with a chap called Rob. We were pacing at the same speed, so it was enjoyable to have company over such a long event. When the heat peaked, we made the decision to pretty much walk for 2-3 hrs. My HR was going through the roof if I tried running and would have been unsustainable over the distance.
At the halfway point, Rob dropped out with what looked like heat exhaustion. Others too, were feeling that these conditions were brutal and a fair few dropped out.
At the half way mark was where I knew the route, so could stop relying on my watch for navigation. The temperature started to wain slightly and running became easier as the noticeably cooler dales late afternoon air made a big difference.
After donning head torch at Hubberholme I trudged off into the night on to Buckden, Kettlewell and over the tops to Grassington. I managed to navigate pretty well and made up a few places along the way. next over to Bolton Abbey and finally to the finish at Ilkley tennis and squash club.
I was really pleased with my performance completing the course in 20hrs 8 mins and 8th/38. I think I got the hydration and fuelling right in these challenging conditions and looking forward to the next challenge!
You can find me on Strava:
www.strava.com/athletes/907263
4 сен 2022
