crapping my pants all week to do this one. imposter syndrome in full flow – not a “proper” runner, too slow, not fit enough, too tired, over-trained, underfed, have some germs coming – the internal list of negatives is just fucking exhausting at times. i know it’s [mostly] crap and i have gotten better at ignoring it but it all detracts from the fun doesn’t it.
had a heavy week training wise with my first proper trip to the gym on monday – felt like i was made of jelly and sawdust on tuesday. i’d already covered 15 miles – and not all easy ones – but the time i rocked up to run this – have some more overthinking jules. also – whilst you’re at it – what about dap selection!
08:20 – arrived at the meeting spot – thanks again to ///what.3.words for enabling me to plan ahead but even bigger thanks to gar who i ended up collecting on the way – local mountain goat and the afan trails OG. parked up, said hellos, panic wee and a gawp at the wildlife
quick group photo – big turnout for this one and hopefully the sign of the season to come. always nice to have a big pack to mingle with. then we were off – the trails were ON FIRE today – despite being mega misty it was absolutely beautiful. these orange months are definitely my favourite – running between half naked trees with leaves under your feet is one of the best feelings ever. there was a load of ascent the first half but the front runners stopped at strategic points to enable everyone to catch up, get their breath back and, most importantly, not lose anyone! the greatest thing about this is how safe i feel – i can go out to remote places knowing i won’t be left behind, if some tragedy befalls me there are people to help and the tips and tricks you learn about trails/running/kit/life from others is invaluable.
i had a 60 minute easy trail run on my plan but ended up doing a far from easy 2 hours plus effort – worth every extra step 🙂 Totaled 9.78miles and finished strong (not strong enough to round up to 10 mind). will one million percent go out with these guys again – and more regularly!
