Up and running!

Welcome,

I recently began a journey into the world of ultra-running, inspired mainly by friend and work-colleague Craig (http://www.twentyclicks.co.uk/), beginning with my first official run in April 2013, the Highland Fling. Reading the various blogs and stories from the runners who took part in that race made me think, why not create one of my own, surely I can be that interesting!

After 10 years of international-level basketball my knees decided it was time to take a break and seek another challenge. For the second half of university in Edinburgh I took up rowing which introduced me to an endurance sport for the first time, and the sensation and reward of pushing the limits.

Being so active always involved a fair bit of running, but nothing organised or structured in that sense. I can be quite stubborn when it comes to doing things, so when I get an idea in my head I have to do it. As I was heading to Kenya for most of the summer upon graduating I decided a good fundraising idea would be to run the West Highland Way. With very little training I headed off to Fort William to (unconventionally) head south for Milngavie.

Starting my run at the official end - May 2011

Three and a half days of rain later, my love for the West Highland Way began and it was always an intention to do one of the races there.

Leaving Inveroran for Bridge of Orchy (Photo: Dr Ali al-Azzawi)

A build-up hampered by injury in 2012 meant a deferral of entry to the 2013 Highland Fling. Preparation began in October for the run in April and training went extremely well with a good mix of on and off road runs. Once April rolled around I felt very prepared for the 53 miles that lay ahead. With a conservative goal of 12 hours, and a hopeful goal of under 10, I was incredibly happy with a final time of 10 hours and 44 minutes. Leading up to the race I was of a frame of mind it could go two ways when I crossed the line, either I would think 'hell no, never again!' or 'hell yeah, when's the next one?' Straight away the planning began, hopefully this blog can give an insight into the planning, training, and journey leading to future adventures!

Off Conic Hill into Balmaha - Highland Fling 2013 (Photo: David Devoy)

Near Rowardennan - Highland Fling 2013 (Photo: Ronnie Cairns)