tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41303005892665373362024-03-05T07:43:56.087-08:00TattooRunnerAim to live each day better than yesterday...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-43373279629754360062014-06-15T00:22:00.000-07:002014-06-15T00:22:02.501-07:00Subscribe!Hay friends! I have posted a new blog on my website today at www.thetattoorunner.com<br />
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Just wondering if you can and don't mind, please head over to the site and subscribe so you can recieve any posts I do in the future. This is my 100th post in here so I will make it my last from the blogger platform. If you can subscribe on the site and keep following my journey that would be amazing!<br />
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Have a super week!<br />
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MatAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-8778808810394562422014-06-08T00:05:00.002-07:002014-06-08T00:05:11.755-07:00NewHay y'all! Hope things are super! Just a reminder I am now posting and blogging over at my website www.thetattoorunner.com I have added a new entry today to my 16weeks to Glasshouse page so head over, check that out and subscribe while your there! Thanks y'all!<br />
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MatAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-33454787692936466682014-05-26T12:25:00.002-07:002014-05-26T12:25:27.091-07:00New blogHay everyone! Hope this reaches you all well! Just wanted to let you know I have posted a new blog over at my website www.thetattoorunner.com please go over and have a look, subscribe and get amongst it. Have a rad day!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-67861886171960137452014-05-07T01:24:00.000-07:002014-05-07T01:24:02.363-07:00WEBSITE LAUNCH!!!To say that I am excited about this moment is a sever understatement!!!! I am SO SO pumped and proud to announce that the long awaited website is now up and ready to roll! I would LOVE it if you had the time to head over, check it out and subscribe to the site!<br />
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A few points to note....now that the site is up and running, I will be blogging through it and no longer through this site. I will post a few reminders before stopping on here all together but if you could subscribe to my site and keep an eye on it, thats where all the action will be taking place. There will naturally be a few issues to iron out and upgrades/changes made over time but the basics are there. <br />
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I want to thank you all for your audience, encouragement, support and love through this process. Things are really moving along nicely and there are so many exciting things going on. <br />
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You might notice a coaching link on the site. If any of you would like to be coached, or know someone who would like to be, please contact me direct. I have also included my sponsors and distribution affiliates.<br />
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Appart from that, training has been going well for the last two and a half weeks since returning after injury. So far so good. I am getting some awesome elevation in here and loving that we now live in some hills! Stay tuned for more. Cooks Tour 30k return in a week and a half.<br />
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Well thats it! I can't believe it has finally happened! Thanks again to everyone and a special thanks to <a href="http://www.coachjeff.com.au/" target="_blank">Coach Jeff</a> for his help in building the site and the regular encouragement he gives me to chase my dream! Go check it out friends, please offer any feedback you have, positive and constructive criticism! I wont get better if I don't know what to improve!<br />
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Love you all, run free and go visit <a href="http://www.thetattoorunner.com/">www.thetattoorunner.com</a> NOW! Good times!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-70306381204007001392014-04-20T16:15:00.000-07:002014-04-20T16:15:27.275-07:00Today....Well, I planned on posting a blog last week but things were hectic (whats new!?) so here we are! There is SO much going on and SO many exciting things happening at the moment it is nearly blowing my head up! So, where to start....<br />
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First of all - today I started back running! After eight weeks away from my indulgence with a stress fracture, I am finally back! I only ran 2k but it was lung burning joy! Where we live now at the coast is COMPLETELY different to Bundy and I got nearly 100m elevation in 2k! OH I AM EXCITED! I have massive plans for my running going forward and plan on being competitive, training hard and smart and being a lean, fast mountain goat! Bring on the upness!<br />
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I have also been around the same weight for the last year or so. I have knowledge that my weight is not ideal for competitive running and for sometime now I have wanted to drop my weight by a further substantial amount. I know I have hinted at this in the past but I really want to get to where I should be as a ultra runner, completing the foundation of building my running career from here on in. Fun journey ahead. Along side gaining ideal racing weight, long term health and wellness is something I am aiming for every day. I have strong conviction about the 'best' way to eat for longevity and this is the gold standard I am aiming for going forward. <br />
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For those who don't know, I am now working full time at Kunara Organic Market Place http://www.kunara.com.au . I am SUPER excited as they have just started a magazine (also can be seen on the website or obtained in hard copy from the shop). After some conversation with the marketing department, I am going to be writing a whole page every issue. This will generally include an interview with a local personality, regular customers or whoever (this issue will be with local triathlete Scottie Farrell who some of you know, so wait for that!), some training tips, maybe a recipe or whatever I like. It is a great opportunity and one I can also use to promote my TattooRunner adventures, which brings me to my next point....TattooRunner!<br />
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Kunara have offered me as a runner a sponsorship! It is a great opportunity and I am super excited to be involved with them as an athlete as well as an employee.<br />
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Hopefully this week, I am also going to be launching my website. There will be more details about this forthcoming, but it will hopefully be a one-stop-shop for all things TattooRunner - blog, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube etc. Very VERY keen to get this up and running.<br />
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Lastly (I think), I can now officially announce I am coaching! My good mate Andy Dower has given me a good push to get this going, and I am going to be helping him in his journey to the Glasshouse 100miler in September. I am available to coach anyone (generally online) from new or established ultra runners, trail runners, runners in general and also those who haven't run a step! I would love to help people lose weight, set a goal and achieve it (no matter how small!), and generally make your life better! Please pass the word around, but these details will be on my website, pending the release. If ANY of you are interested in getting coached by me, or know someone who might be interested in getting coached, please email me direct at grills_1@hotmail.com for costing etc...<br />
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So, I think that is it for the moment?! There is SO much going on and I have so many goals, dreams and visions of what I want to achieve in the near and distance future. I have really grown a deep seeded entrepreneurial spirit and I have no desire for the ordinary. I am chasing the dream, living life, celebrating existence and learning from mistakes. God is good, life is blessed and meant to be a wild adventure. I am honoured that you would want to share this journey with me and hope you are taking your own off beaten, un-explored single track to find your own special, individual calling. I love you all friends, have an amazing, super exciting, beautiful week. Run on, plant strong....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-9313003758885535662014-04-05T23:04:00.000-07:002014-04-05T23:04:19.482-07:00Booties got back....almost!MY PEOPLE! Well, I haven't really felt like a runner as of late let me tell you! Whist I am back training (elliptical and spin bike at the gym...ugh!) there has still been no running due to the stress fracture in my foot. My physio has said that I am aloud to start running tomorrow, however I am giving it an extra two weeks (shock and awe!!!!) to make sure it is healed and ready to go for the rest of the year. <br />
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It has been tough! I have REALLY missed my daily routine of getting out the door early, starting the day beautifully. My daily meditation practice of running has been sorely missed, however it will be back soon! I really think though that this has re-lit the fire in the belly for when I am back clicking off the miles.<br />
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So, in saying this, I thought I would take this opportunity to let y'all know my plans for the rest of the year. I have just done up my calendar and diary and I can't wait to get started tomorrow. I am SUPER keen to start running here at the Sunshine Coast. I think I was a decent trail mountain runner whilst living in Bundy (with no trails or mountains!), however now I am living where there is some serious hills and trails, I am super excited to see what I am capable of. Bring it on mountain goat! So here it is!<br />
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- Two more weeks at the gym, then four weeks running for my comeback race, Cooks Tour 30k. I am going to use this time to drop some serious weight, get my mind right and in some decent shape for the second half of the year. <br />
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- Flinders Tour 50k. This is a 'A' Goal this year. I am aiming for a finish time under 4hrs 30min.<br />
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- Maybe River Run 100k. This is three weeks before Glasshouse 100miler so Ill see where Im at when the time is closer.<br />
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- Glasshouse 100miler. Another 'A' Goal race. I am setting myself a massive goal and aiming to finish in under 20hrs this year. Ohhhhh the enormity of this excites me!<br />
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- Blackall 100. This is a new event being put on by Run Queensland http://www.runqueensland.com/index.html Whilst I have no idea how fast I will run here, the course is going to be AMAZING (now in my backyard, the Sunshine Coast Great Walk (think Maleny, Montville, waterfalls etc etc)! This is probably the race that I am most looking forward to this year, purely on a new, beauty side of things. Alun and the crew at Run Queensland are sure to do an amazing job as usual and I think this is going to become a premier event in Australia.<br />
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- Maybe Coast 2 Kosi. Whilst I had an incredible time at this event last year, it is essentially a road race, expensive to do and a LONG way. I am much more suited to trail events (the tougher the better) and 100k or 100mile events, but well see. It is hard to ignore the specialness of this event. Truly epic!<br />
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- Any other smaller or super fun events that may come along.<br />
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As a side point, I am also going to be checkpoint chief at the halfway point at Wildhorse Criterium Easter Weekend. This is gonna be super fun to help out in a way I have always wanted to but never had the chance to due to running. I will be there with new friend Meagan and Coach Jeff so it will be a hoot! Get ready for some vegan goodies!<br />
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So....there you have it friends. I am going to be training seriously focused and doing bulk k's on some gnarly hills and trails so I think the possibilities for this year and my running going forward are endless. Thanks for your support during my down time and I can't wait to see you all out running soon! Smile, love all and run free friends! YES!<br />
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P.S - Dont forget I am still blogging for Nanas Pantry in Bundaberg - https://nanaspantry.com.au/blog I am also in the process of hopefully getting involved and maybe writing for my new workplaces magazine, who's first issue only got released last week. Check it out if you get a chance. It is a very professional publication with some really great information/articles. I am not entirely sure exactly how I will be involved yet but I am super excited and keen! Check out http://www.kunara.com.au/kunara-newsletter-oct.html<br />
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Lastly - I just want to thank http://www.injinjiperformanceproducts.com.au for their ongoing support. They have been looking after me with shoes and gear and I can't wait to keep this relationship going in the coming times. I am also in talks with Pocket Fuel USA about their products so who knows what exciting things may come of that! Stay tuned!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-81914071322357969992014-03-25T13:09:00.000-07:002014-03-25T13:09:00.806-07:00New digs and what not!Hay ya peeps! I hope this post finds you all lovin life, being kind to one and other and chasing your own adventures! I just wanted to do a catch up blog to let you all know what is going on with us, what we have been doing and how life is doing!<br />
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So, on Saturday just gone, we officially moved into the house were staying at on the Sunshine Coast! It has been a hectic journey for us for just over a month now with Tegan working and staying at a friends house (thanks so very much Tim and Lisa) Sunday to Tuesday. I also started my new job the Monday before we moved down and also stayed with Tim and Lisa before moving officially on the weekend! So....to say the last little while has been hectic isn't far from the truth! It is so so nice to all be here now together to start our new adventures. Thus far, our jobs are great, the house is beautiful and we have already started looking for somewhere to buy as we are only in this place for three months. Were really praying that will all work out as well as the initial move here has.<br />
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On the training front I thought I was going to start riding last week, however on the Monday I went out on my new single speed, which I LOVE, and due to the hills and lots of standing up peddling it put too much weight through my foot and aggravated it.....no more riding for the moment. So, Monday just gone I have done the ridiculous and joined a gym for a month! The plan hatched from a Podcast where a girl said she was injured and did a heap of her training on an elliptical machine(non impact) to build/maintain her fitness before starting running again. So, my plan is this.....build up time based training on the elliptical and this cool stair climber machine for four weeks (two weeks longer than physio said I have to be off it...I want to make sure my foot is 100% right) then four weeks actual running before Cooks Tour 50k. I hope and pray this will work out and that the gym will get me in some decent shape before getting back into running.<br />
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Tegs said yesterday that she just loves getting out for a morning run, that it clears her head and sets her in a better place for the day ahead. I completely agree with this and being here now in the hills it is killing me not being able to enjoy them. I am really missing my daily routine of getting up early and heading out on a run. Life however at times throws us curveballs and we just have to roll with the punches. I have been really trying to remain positive through this journey however it has not always been easy. As the moments pass though, I do not want to live for the future but in the present and enjoy each day and opportunity I am blessed with. And I truly am blessed.<br />
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So my friends that is a quick catch up on where we are and what is doing. All else is super, the kids are great and setting in fine. We are going to surly miss a number of our friends from Bundy and hope we can stay in touch and see each other regularly. Thanks for reading everyone, be free, live life, love always and see ya next time. peaceAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-17753270794151786472014-03-07T01:16:00.001-08:002014-03-07T01:16:34.113-08:00Happy...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3Ious9B-bQw88kzJwGQ_RcTyhuLfXYVsXRiKpXJ8-sedXyeTjzbgzMvYnwZQGrYb5eQUE6M-_78KaZQXZ6Wlcq82Mv4Ks_qrIOB5lAWNnpOkKO7DJ0OrkPNU6s2BZAPLhnQvExV-/s1600/2014-03-07+11.15.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3Ious9B-bQw88kzJwGQ_RcTyhuLfXYVsXRiKpXJ8-sedXyeTjzbgzMvYnwZQGrYb5eQUE6M-_78KaZQXZ6Wlcq82Mv4Ks_qrIOB5lAWNnpOkKO7DJ0OrkPNU6s2BZAPLhnQvExV-/s1600/2014-03-07+11.15.15.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BOOT ON!</td></tr>
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Above is a picture of what I will be seeing when I look down for the next little while....thoes who know me, know that this would usually make me incredibly sad and depressed....BUT....<br />
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I'm happy because...I only have the first stages of a stress fracture and not a full blown break<br />
I'm happy because...I only have to wear this thing for the next couple of weeks<br />
I'm happy because...I get to ride a bike and experience new things until it heals<br />
I'm happy because...I have a beautiful family with new exciting adventures on the horizon<br />
I'm happy because...I start my new job in a week<br />
I'm happy because...in two weeks we are moving to the SUNNY COAST!!!<br />
I'm happy because...I will get to run soon...and with a vengeance<br />
I'm happy because...God has blessed me so very much in every possible way!<br />
I'm happy because...although running is my everything, in the big scheme of things it is just running<br />
I'm happy because...injuries make me realise just how special time outside, running the trails is to me<br />
I'm happy because...I have clothes to wear, food to eat and clean water to drink<br />
I'm happy because...I surround myself with positive, inspiring, beautiful people<br />
I'm happy because...I have made amazing friends through running and simple things like Instagram<br />
I'm happy because...life is too short not to be<br />
I'm happy because...I have taken risks, broken from the mould and the future is mine to decide<br />
I'm happy because...I am not tied to a career<br />
I'm happy because...the sun is shining<br />
I'm happy because...hatin will get me nowhere fast<br />
I'm happy because...I know you have amazing potential, waiting to break free<br />
I'm happy because...of the time I have spent in Bundaberg<br />
I'm happy because...I get to share this with you<br />
I'm happy because...each day I am trying to be better than yesterday<br />
I'm happy because...I'm happy!!!!!<br />
I'm happy because...there is so much negativity in this world, it is nice to have your heart smile! If you haven't seen the below, watch it, smile, feel good and be happy! Heck, I got a boot and I'm happy! Ha! Love y'all and blog ya soon. Run on! <br />
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-84558491989751000272014-02-24T17:21:00.000-08:002014-02-24T17:21:37.070-08:00Fit - Check, Race - Check, Injured - Check....Well, Sunday just gone was my first race for the year, Beerway at Daybreak. I was really looking forward to it and had been training really well in the lead up. I had been having some niggles in my left foot for about a month prior (stemming from Coast 2 Kosci) and about a week to 10days before race day, it was really giving me grief even when not running. Like all good ultra runners, I ignored it and got on with my race plans.<br />
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We had a busy day the day before, checking things out and preparing for our pending move to the Sunny Coast. Super exciting. I then got to bed at a reasonable hour after deciding the girls wouldn't come down to Beerwah from Noosa, where we were staying, for this one due to me having to leave at 2:15am! I have a goal this year of doing under 4hr 30min at a 50k event and was gonna shoot for it at Beerwah...that was until the weather arrived and I saw that the winner of the event in November (same course but at night) did just over 5hrs.....might not crack the goal in this event!<br />
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So, Saturday morning, I got up, got sorted and down to the start line. It had been raining pretty decently since early evening the night before and there were still good solid downpours on the way to the race start...it was gonna be sloppy! Upon arrival, I met up with mum and dad and everything went as usual before the start at 4am.<br />
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The start of the race went by pretty smoothly, apart from the fact that it was muddy, wet and pretty technical. The first 6.5k was pretty challenging and made more so by the use of headlamps. I made my way through this un-scaved to the first checkpoint and saw the beautiful Ann. She is a gem! After this there was some good running and all was clicking off well. At about 5:10am I turned off my headlamp and continued on my way. I could feel my foot was sore but kept on movin. <br />
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The race operated by doing the 20k loop back to base, then the 30k loop back to base and finish. The rest of the first loop went by pretty much to plan and I arrived back to base in good spirits. I had been checking out footprints in the mud and guessed I must have been in about 5th position. When I got back to base, I headed off again and now had the fun of catching a some of the 30k runners who had started not long after my arrival at base after my first loop. This kept things interesting but my foot started to hurt. I ignored it and ran that first technical 6.5k pretty darn hard. I was bombing the hills and hiking with purpose...loved it! <br />
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At about the 30k (about 3hrs) mark, I passed the guy in 4th position and kept moving well although by this stage my foot was bad. I got to the 33k checkpoint and was unsure if I was going to keep on going. There was a nurse there (one of the fairies) who iced my foot, strapped it and gave me some panadol. I decided to keep on going, although by this stage the pain was almost unbearable, making me grunt every few steps and affecting my gait. This was bad as then I started to get some pretty substantial pain in the back of my knee and calf because of the over compensating. I was very steady and obviously got passed by a number of runners in the 30 and 50k events. I continued to move forward as best I could, unsure what the rest of the race was going to give me, and even wether I was going to finish. I ran into Alun, the race director who was out on the course and had a chat to him. He was supportive as always and offered some words of encouragement. <br />
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I got to a checkpoint at about 40k and a ultra running hero who I know (in my eyes anyway...heck she has done Badwater!) Susanna was there. She could obviously see I was in a bad way and she contacted Alun to come and pick me up in his vehicle. I sat down for a second and heard that it was about a 4.5k loop out and back to their checkpoint. After having one of Susanna's home made vegan balls (OMGosh....INCREDIBLE!) I decided to do the loop and see how I went. No real change. Amazingly painful, grunting, hobbling and generally in a bad way. Surprisingly, I passed a few people from here on in. I tried to stay positive and enjoy the moment and this was punctuated by seeing two wild horses. Beautiful. I kept on thinking of Tim Olsen going into beast mode and him grunting when he means business. Well I meant business, the business of finishing this race, one way or another. <br />
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I got back to Susanna's checkpoint, was grumpy (I HATE being grumpy on the trails cause this is where my peace is, but my foot was so bad it was affecting all parts of me). I grabbed another one of those amazing balls and kept going as best I could. The last 6-7km went by about the same....really painful, hobbling when I could, getting to the finish line the quickest way I could. <br />
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I arrived in a finish time of 5hr 48min and in 9th position. I was done. Physically, I didn't even feel tired or that I had done much, but my left leg, particularly my foot was destroyed. Very disappointing. My biggest regret of the day however is not acknowledging the people cheering for me at the finish. I am really sorry to you all that I didn't look up, smile and hoot and holla like I usually do. The injury had got the better of me and I just didn't have it in me. I am sorry for not having the attitude I usually do and I hope you can understand.<br />
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Post race equated to ice, ibuprofen, numerous messages to my good friend and physio Nix and rest. A couple of days post race, I have had an X-ray and it has come back clear. I am due to have a MRI also as it is believed I may have a stress fracture in the fifth metatarsal of my left foot. Time will tell. This week however I am resting, hoping my foot comes good quick smart to start training for Wild Horse at Easter time.<br />
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I want to thank everyone for their support in this race. The checkpoint volunteers were amazing and so so important in getting me through. Alun, you put on a top event and I know everyone enjoyed it, keep up the super work!! A big thanks to my sponsor too at http://injinjiper.cart.net.au for looking after me.<br />
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Although the race did not go as planned, I am proud that I worked my way through it. Medically I probably should have stopped, but I think the DNF would have hurt more than the pain in my foot during the race. I continue to fall in love with ultra trail running, the good, the bad and the beautiful. It is an amazing sport and I can not wait for the next event to roll around! Run free, plant strong!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-KMGhqlLGrBxEO1uhvngiWMWV_0jfutzIgfD1urnBzx4oUnP1nQg_GnoKN73eLx94cuJE4pNG7472JJvuzTzxRPK2mP8y3baBdiIMmTeknpXR3QThZHQgPpLtJPnLnhaEINcAF6A/s1600/2014-02-25+06.16.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-KMGhqlLGrBxEO1uhvngiWMWV_0jfutzIgfD1urnBzx4oUnP1nQg_GnoKN73eLx94cuJE4pNG7472JJvuzTzxRPK2mP8y3baBdiIMmTeknpXR3QThZHQgPpLtJPnLnhaEINcAF6A/s1600/2014-02-25+06.16.03.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always time for a smile after a few k's on the trail!</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-76763133156783979272014-02-09T18:21:00.000-08:002014-02-09T18:21:13.315-08:00A catch up...hang on!Gday y'all! Well, to say life has been hectic for us over the last couple of months, particularly the last month, would be an understatement! There have been MANY exciting things happening and I thought it was about time I updated you all so everyone knows whats up and can't claim they didn't know!<br />
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So, a month or two back, after lengthy discussion, Tegan and I decided it was time to move to the Sunshine Coast. We have been wanting to do this for a couple of years now and the time just hasn't been right. Now though, we feel God is moving us on to a new and exciting adventure! We weren't sure how it was all gonna take place but we made the decision and went at it! I kept hearing all these things about talking the first step and the rest will just happen so that is exactly what we did. Through our random daily Bible devotions we have also got a number of confirming verses that we need to go!<br />
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At this point, long story short, we have been able to secure a beautiful house to house sit for a lovely couple who are missionaries. They are going on a mission trip on the 21st of March for three months and we will be moving into their house to look after their place, get settled in and hopefully find somewhere of our own to buy. We have a dream of having a house in Buderim and running a small health Bed and Breakfast from it. I will be offering additional trail running tours of the area and we will also look at offering picnic baskets and trail walking tours as well. It is SUPER exciting that is for sure!<br />
<br />
Tegan has secured her dream job and will be starting THIS Sunday. She is going to be working Sunday, Monday Tuesday and driving back and forth from Bundy until we can get into our house sit house. I will play daddy daycare and then work Wednesday to Saturday still at Nanas before starting work at the Sunshine Coast when we move down. I have got a job at Skäl Coffee in Peregian and have a few other things on the go so that will be cool for when I get down there!<br />
<br />
The girls are booked into care from when we all move down, so all is working out perfectly. We have had the house on the market for a couple of weeks now and just praying it will sell ASAP, as that is kinda the last piece of the puzzle.<br />
<br />
I have made the decision not to continue with Uni at this point for a number of reasons. The most important reason was that between working part time, studying full time and training, I was barely seeing the girls. It was a full on year last year. I am looking at the possibility of studying something by distance, however still looking at the options. I also couldn't really see myself going to work everyday, stuck in a cubical! Ugh! <br />
<br />
I have completely come to the point in my life where I do not care about money but only about being happy! I of course will always work to provide for my family but job status etc no longer holds any importance to me. As long as I LOVE my job and am helping people on a daily basis, this is what matters to me! This is one of the reasons leaving Nanas Pantry (my current workplace) is going to be SO hard. There is exciting things happening there and I LOVE going to work, every shift. It is a beautiful environment with amazing people and I will miss them so much.<br />
<br />
Of course it is also going to be hard leaving family and friends behind, but the positive is that we will be just down the road and once we have our own place, they will have somewhere to come and stay!<br />
<br />
So there it is kids! The Grills' are out of Bundy! One of the final reasons for moving is the location. We are head over heels with the Coast and a location like the Buderim area is perfect for us. The shops are close for Tegs, the beach is just down the road and the mountains are at our doorstep for my running. Whilst this might seem trivial to some of you, to have a supportive wife toward my running, and being willing to move somewhere I can really improve as an athlete is so SO incredibly heart warming. My best friend and soul mate Tegs is one of a kind and this new adventure is gonna be epic with her, hand in hand!<br />
<br />
Now your up to date!<br />
<br />
I hope this blog finds you all fit and well and chasing your dreams in 2014. What a year it is going to be! Have a ripper week all, keep smiling, fighting the good fight, eating plants and loving life. Blog hugs for you! Run free...Mat<br />
<br />
PS - On the training front, all is going AMAZING! I have been logging 100-140k a week in prep for Beerwah at Dawn (in two weeks) and I am running faster and stronger than ever. I aim to run fast at this event and see how things pan out! Good times ahead!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-92080724959484037372014-02-01T20:49:00.001-08:002014-02-01T20:49:36.357-08:00More MASSIVE news and a back out....for now!I completed this post on Thursday...sorry about the delay in posting!<br />
<br />
First....the MASSIVE news! This week I secured my first major sponsorship!!!! So so stoked!!! I have hooked up with Injinji Sports Performance, an online distributor for a number of brands. They supported dad and I during our run from Bundy to Brisbane and back and I approached them this week about something official. The owner, Paul got back to me and presented an amazing offer! So, I naturally took it up! For those who don't know, ISP stock Altra Shoes (which I now run in the majority of the time), Injinji Socks (which I can STRONGLY recommend from when I used to wear socks...they are THE best sock out there), Ultimate Direction and Body Glide, both of which I use every day and a number of other products. I just want to thank Paul and his team for their on going support and I can't wait to work together going forward! Thanks so much guys, and to all of you readers out there, jump over to their site at http://www.injinjiperformanceproducts.com.au and grab all the gear you need!<br />
<br />
First week E2...<br />
<br />
26/1 - Today was a good day! Very exciting for Tegan and I in that we announced to our friends that we are moving to the Sunny Coast! We are so pumped, a little nervous and seriously looking forward to getting down there to start a new adventure! Very cool! It was also the start of my 100days E2 plan. I stuck to the guidelines well, however probably ate a bit too much as I think I was playing catch up from the last couple of days big milage. All good though! Had a crazy, windy 15k run with dad this morning to kick off the day which kicked everything off well! Todays hit out saw 135k for the week which I am happy with! First day down and all good! Start weight - 81.8kg<br />
<br />
27/28-1 - The last two days have been so busy! Everything is happening with moving to the Coast and life seems to be blurring into one! The last couple of days E2 wise have been OK but still feel like I am eating too much. I think a problem is that I am not taking on enough through the day and then night rolls round and I am super hungry. Still stuck within the guidelines though! Yes! Tomorrow we head to the Sunny Coast to stay with our good friends Tim and Lisa and scope out some places to live and the vibe in general. Tegs also has a job trial which is super exciting. I am just about to go to bed early cause I am beat! Day 2 and 3 done!<br />
<br />
29/1 - Today was terrible! Well not the day but my feeling in general! I did 15k this morning and it was a full on struggle! I had no motivation and it felt like my energy was way down. Sucked! Then we drove to the Sunny Coast where I was so tired...even to the point of Tegs and I going for a walk and I felt dizzy! I went to bed super early (for me) and slept well, although completely drained! Lets see how tomorrow is...<br />
<br />
30/1 - I woke this morning at 4:30am like normal, to do 22k. I was annihilated! I went back to bed for an hour (unheard of!) and got up to see how I felt. Still terrible! I went out and did 5k and it felt like 50k! No more!<br />
<br />
After talking to Tegs, chatting to some friends and having a good think about things, I have decided to back out of the Engine 2 plan for the moment. This is for a number of reasons. Firstly, when things start affecting my running (regardless of what they are) it causes major problems for me! This is SO important to me and I don't want any external factor to affect my training. Secondly, it has affected my mental state with my running and life in general. Not good. I stand by everything I wrote in my last blog about E2 being the ultimate way to eat however when I am in bulk training(110-180km per week running) I need the easy calories and pick me ups to keep me going. I am obviously sticking to my plant based vegan diet going forward and still have the goal of getting under 75kg this year however I am just going to do this slowly, eating a healthy, rounded vegan diet, but not restricting what vegan food I can eat. <br />
<br />
I feel silly and like a cop out bailing so early on this plan however I am glad I started it and gave it another quick go. I can absolutely see myself eating this way 100% in the future however whilst I am running like a mad man, a bit of sensible balance in my plant based eating doesn't hurt anyone I don't think! This is from my experience and only mine. I know a number of people who train and perform amazingly as a fruitarian but this is my experience and thoughts of where I am at at the moment.<br />
<br />
Thank you for your help and support through all I do friends. Lets keep moving forward positively together and change the world one by one! All good things, life is blessed and if we don't give things a crack we will never know! Love you all, run free, vegan and strong!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-3537605526820070652014-01-24T14:42:00.002-08:002014-01-24T14:42:37.721-08:00Two BIG announcements! EXCITED!<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>100 Days of Change…<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As part of my goals/resolutions for 2014, I wanted to get my
diet and health in prime condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
year has started out ok with more up’s than down, but it is time to really
challenge myself and turn things around for my long term health, wellbeing and
to enrich my life to the greatest extent that I can.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am a firm believer that what you eat and drink can play a
profound effect on your long-term wellness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This includes disease and cancer prevention, long term weight
management, and mental clarity, achieving ultimate running fitness, looking
young (I need help in this department! Ha!) and general life satisfaction on a
day to day basis.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those who know me know that when it comes to health, food,
research and study on all things wellness, well, I am a bit of a nerd.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Through my investigations, I have been
constantly brought back to what is known as the Esselston, Forks Over Knives, or
Engine 2 way of eating as the pinnacle of lifestyles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The medical research alone behind this lifestyle
(conducted by some of the leading cardiologists and doctors across the world)
is MORE than compelling to make me want to strive for this way of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that is not even taking the way it makes
you feel, perform, think, react and live into consideration.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SO, what is this way of eating and why 100days?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well some of you might remember that at the
end of 2012 I did the 28day Engine 2 Challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is the same plan I had results on then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For those who missed it, here it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course it is a wholefoods, plant based
diet (vegan…as if I am going to change from this!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can consume as much food as you like as
long as everything is wholegrain (nothing processed, ie. White bread, pasta
etc), has NO added oil (apart from whole foods like<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>avocado, nuts etc) and you take on NO
stimulants (coffee, tea etc).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Easy
right?!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All this along with the obvious
fruit, veg, nuts, seeds, legumes and grains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And why the 100days?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of my
inspirations in life is Rich Roll and he believes (which I agree with) that it
takes 100days to change/break a habit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So, 100 it is!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now….I am not making this decision lightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe that I need to do something remarkable,
challenging, scary, tough and life changing to make a difference in my world
and to my health.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I try to do this on a
daily basis, but this is going to take things to a new level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To be perfectly honest…I am PETRIFIED!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that the first week or two of this is
going to be very hard (not that it is that much different to how I eat now
accept for cutting out sugar and not having caffeine…help me Rhonda!)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT…I look forward to sharing the journey and
experience it all with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, my plan of action is to start on Australia Day (26/1)
and keep a daily journal online through my blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will post it, along with my training and
weekly weight, and any other things I think up each week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ask that, if you don’t mind, you keep me
accountable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I fully expect to have the
occasional slip up (which I hope I don’t) but plan to stay the journey and see
it through for the full 100days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Public
accountability can sometimes be the best form of keeping one in check!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring it!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Simple,
yet extremely life changing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
journey will literally change <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>my long-term
health prospectus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whilst I hope to drop
some kg’s and see my running performances continue to improve, my ultimate goal
is eating/drinking habits for a lifetime, not a quick fix!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If any of you might be at all interested in joining me on
your own journey, that would be AMAZING!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You can commit to what you like, but the same plan would be ideal so we
can do it together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can Google The
Engine 2 Diet and see what beautiful stuff you CAN eat, and if any of you are
keen, I suggest you buy the book and do your own research online…the rabbit hole
is deep and the answers you will find (especially about disease prevention) is
eye opening!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, I STRONGLY suggest
you ALL watch Forks Over Knives, even if you are not ready to commit to this big
change straight away!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a collective
start date for anyone wanting to play along at home, might I suggest the 1<sup>st</sup>
of February, to give you a couple of days to get your head around the idea and
start preparing for what I promise will be a life changing journey we can share
together!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you all for your support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In anything I have done in the past you have
all been amazing and I have no reason to believe you won’t be during this next
venture!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring on Auzzie Day….lets get
this party started!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PS - EXTRA EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A SECOND piece of big news for this blog….I have been trying
and trying for a fair while now but due to my lack of computer skills been
unable to get it sorted….but….I FINALLY have my own You Tube channel set
up!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have posted two videos so far, an
intro one and my video from Coast 2 Kosci.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The quality might not be incredible but I have done my best and I am
sure I will improve with time!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope
that you might go over, subscribe to the channel and share the love!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Below are the links for the Channel, and the
two videos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ENJOY and let me know what
you think!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks again!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chanel - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJjUOadnQs_PUijLaYCIlNA">http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJjUOadnQs_PUijLaYCIlNA</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJjUOadnQs_PUijLaYCIlNA">http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJjUOadnQs_PUijLaYCIlNA</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-79712127599021631132014-01-19T11:46:00.002-08:002014-01-19T11:46:33.482-08:00Exciting news and some rad running!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMvR5DrvxXioTuNSUvqs-v9Owcdbt5FRvCNTBwUIcOfTVWXmZBdq5rHJHOCO6MzSPK_Q2CBuixvqGAaq8TJGAfSrvCA8TR4UI-laFKiUx0y0vtL_fH-8C_1TCR518e7td73eNxYELK/s1600/2014-01-17+12.38.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMvR5DrvxXioTuNSUvqs-v9Owcdbt5FRvCNTBwUIcOfTVWXmZBdq5rHJHOCO6MzSPK_Q2CBuixvqGAaq8TJGAfSrvCA8TR4UI-laFKiUx0y0vtL_fH-8C_1TCR518e7td73eNxYELK/s1600/2014-01-17+12.38.37.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bliss!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What up yall?! Hope you have had a super week and brought the New Year in with a bang! We have a super buzy January ahead but it is going to be one filled with fun that is for sure! Some exciting things have been happening in the last couple of weeks and I wanted to kick off the first post of the year announcing them!<br />
<br />
I have recently struck up a relationship with Soleus Watches Australia. They deal in fitness, everyday and GPS watches. They are extremely affordable and create a super product for everyone! I don't have any way of personal referral to the company at this time, however if any of you want to purchase one, I ask that you make a note when ordering that I let you know about them. I am currently using the Cross Country GPS watch and it is super! I am looking forward to an ongoing relationship with them and hoping it expands to something even more exciting! Check out http://soleusrunning.com.au/ <br />
<br />
As a small side note, I have also started using Strava. I have an account there now, so if you want to follow my training along with yours, get on board ( http://www.strava.com/athletes/1479959 ). I am also going to include at the end of my blogs my training this year....itll be at the end so those not interested can skip over it!<br />
<br />
This week - first week of the year...<br />
<br />
30/12 - 12km easy run<br />
31/12 - 20km hummock route with 10 hill repeats<br />
01/1 - 7.1km family run. 43:14min. Pria did her first ever k!<br />
02/1 - 20.4km hummock route with 13 hill repeats. 1hr 57min.<br />
03/1 - 10km easy run. 53:28min. 1k with Pria.<br />
04/1 - 25km long trail run with group. 2hr 23min.<br />
05/1 - 15.1km tempo run. 1hr 18min. <br />
This week - 109.6km<br />
<br />
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSdLEYnzilMyPR-7-HYyFB1x8lY2ALykDflNYx0YfuQN945_1T_IoMAR9aRcCWlIKRHtnl-QO4vcxKD3GjoKpU6LWH7Chd7P3gn3SOGijz0RduZY76gxfQGSNIkb7LuIP77MTrG9Z/s1600/2014-01-12+11.19.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSdLEYnzilMyPR-7-HYyFB1x8lY2ALykDflNYx0YfuQN945_1T_IoMAR9aRcCWlIKRHtnl-QO4vcxKD3GjoKpU6LWH7Chd7P3gn3SOGijz0RduZY76gxfQGSNIkb7LuIP77MTrG9Z/s1600/2014-01-12+11.19.04.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My beautiful wife killin it<br />in her first ultra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week (and the one before!) has been one of adventure! After seeing Tegan and a heap of friends run
Hares and Hounds, Monday the 13th we were off to New Zealand! As part of Tegans 30<sup>th</sup> Birthday
month, she ran her first ultra marathon (52km) and would be celebrating her special
day (20/1) in Auckland! And might I say,
she did an incredible job! I was so
proud to see her persevere and complete something truly remarkable! Good times!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In amongst all the chaos of packing and getting sorted, I
was hoping to post the above earlier however didn’t get around to it! It has been a little busy! Sorry it is a little dated now! I realised when posting that I missed two weeks! Sorry!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnJElqtzqwzTT3yIZM_Y1VNRvx3pN_zEVfEYLLQzLpkU3d0rqx5vHt9zRwhfwAQDS7k-TAhEy2Uo5nNG270opTZKAhywHbdCyMfxEYh55-0If3VnBXdAwqrO5Iq9nMnQBUMyfpOYN/s1600/2014-01-15+17.35.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnJElqtzqwzTT3yIZM_Y1VNRvx3pN_zEVfEYLLQzLpkU3d0rqx5vHt9zRwhfwAQDS7k-TAhEy2Uo5nNG270opTZKAhywHbdCyMfxEYh55-0If3VnBXdAwqrO5Iq9nMnQBUMyfpOYN/s1600/2014-01-15+17.35.54.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Redwoods Forest...speachless!</td></tr>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So far, our time across the ditch has been super fun and I
have got plenty of good running in! As
most of you would have seen on Facebook or Instagram, the Redwood Forest in
Rotorua stole my heart! Holy
smokes! Incredible! After spending three days there, we then
trekked north to Corromandal and stayed in an AMAZING tree house, way up in the
hills! The running was ordinary with as
much hiking as actual running but it has still been enjoyable. On Sunday we will head to Auckland and spend
our last four days. Bliss.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been doing a fair bit of pondering and ‘start of year
reflecting’ and have some exciting, challenging things up ahead. Can not wait to get into it and share the
journey with you all! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I pray the first couple of weeks of 2014 have been fun and
exciting for you all and that you have set yourself some challenging, larger
than life goals for this year. Stay
positive, smile and Ill see y’all when I return to Auz!<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZ1OoJKwF6PTng3CMMFdaqoMm-Dv9cOgh9m5eoSjpb19jACrVEczcWm3flUoKa7nsyyRe4ZZzlABZEWIG8jSWfdtJ7vB1wONCBeJz3nAjqPwljk6aVmst7Dhtjs-qDRp0baydB8lJ/s1600/2014-01-17+12.39.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZ1OoJKwF6PTng3CMMFdaqoMm-Dv9cOgh9m5eoSjpb19jACrVEczcWm3flUoKa7nsyyRe4ZZzlABZEWIG8jSWfdtJ7vB1wONCBeJz3nAjqPwljk6aVmst7Dhtjs-qDRp0baydB8lJ/s1600/2014-01-17+12.39.42.jpg" height="114" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from our place in Corromandal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6/1 - 13km run in the sandies - 1hr 10min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7/1 - 20.3km hummock route w 15 hill repeats (4 run, 11 hiked) - 1hr 57min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8/1 - 10km easy - 57:54min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9/1 - 20.1km in a strong head wind on the way back - 1hr 45min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10/1 - 12.1km at Marcus Beach - 1hr 7min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11/1 - 25.1km from Peridigan to Mt Coolum and return - 2hr 21min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
12/1 - 7.1km after crewing for Tegs at Hares and Hounds - 36:30min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week - 107.6km</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
YTD - 185.2km</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
13/1 - Rest day travelling to NZ</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
14/1 - 20.4km to the Redwood Forest and through it (Rotorua) - 1hr 50min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15/1 - 15.3km back to the Redwoods - 1hr 23min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
16/1 - 20.6km on the 'Purple Loop) in the Redwoods. Amazing - 1hr 58min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
17/1 - 10.1km in the estate we stayed in in the Corromandal. Freekin hilly - 1hr 15min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
18/1 - 15.1km on the 309 toward Corromandal - 1hr 35min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
19/1 - 22.5km on the 309 away from the Corromandal...stoked with my time and average pace (745m elevation - 2hr 14min</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week - 104.1km</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
YTD - 289.3km</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-9714425814878911702013-12-30T01:47:00.000-08:002013-12-30T01:47:17.102-08:00Thank you!Well, 2013 has been a big, ripper, life changing year! Given that it is the end of the year, it is generally a time to reflect! And reflect we shall! <br />
<br />
This year we had a new baby, Corlè, I left the Police to start studying physiotherapy full time at uni, I started a new job at Nanas Pantry, I got a new wife (ok, not new...Tegs just lost a crazy amount of weight after having the baby and looks AMAZING!)...oh, and I ran about a billion races, including a PB at 50k, 100miles and finishing Coast 2 Kosci...240k! Good times!<br />
<br />
It has been an exciting, challenging, liberating and generally fun time! In saying that, 2014 I have a feeling is gonna be EPIC! We have some more BIG plans and ideas in the pipeline and I can not wait to share them with you! All in good time young punter!<br />
<br />
Also, this time of year, people usually set some life goals and resolutions for their next period in life. Whilst there is usually a fair bit of cynicism about New Years Resolutions, can I encourage you to be positive! Use it as a time to set yourself some goals, make some positive changes and look ahead at what incredible things you are going to do going forward. Get amongst it!<br />
<br />
A couple of goals I have already set....spend more, quality time with my beautiful girls, live each day to the full, run under 4hrs 30min (YIKES) in a trail 50k race, under 20hrs in a 100miler (YIKES again!), aim for 7000km running in the year (not a specific focus but if it happens that would be SWEET), get my weight under 75kg year round (which I have been trying to do for a while) and eat a healthier vegan diet. There are a few other 'secret' goals that will all be revealed in good time!<br />
<br />
I finally want to take this chance to thank YOU! I have been blessed and amazed beyond belief at the comments, words, thoughts, prayers and general encouragement I have received through this year from every single one of you! I pray you will continue to follow my journey and be inspired by this little adventure the TattooRunner is on!<br />
<br />
God bless you all, I love each one of you and can't wait to share 20-14 with you!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-38065071324788892792013-12-10T01:39:00.000-08:002013-12-10T01:39:04.272-08:00Contentment, Sleep Monsters and Sufferfest - Coast 2 Kosci
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<u>Day One – 03/12/13</u> – What a ripper day!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We started our journey at 5am from my humble
abode with dad and Rod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We headed to
Brisbane and picked up Lori for the first leg of the trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And what a fun day it was!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The weather was absolutely beautiful and traffic
was good!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sun was shining, the country
side was gorgeous and the company was stella! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kicking back on top of the camper before the cold arrived</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
I do however have some reserved judgement about my
crew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew Rod was a triathlete with a
dirty ultra running secret but it turns out that Lori is an ultra runner with a
FILTHY triathlon habit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>HELP ME
RHONDA!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought heading to Australia’s
longest ultra, I would be far away from the triathlon madness, but no!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It follows me and haunts me forever
more!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Needless to say, much laughter and
taunting was had during the day!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We pushed on through the day, relaxing, talking, listening
to some tunes and generally having a top time!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We made it to about 40km from Newcastle before calling it a night and
setting up the camper for a nights kip.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am super, super excited to start running however a bit
nervous about the weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Snow has been
forecast during the run, which may make things very interesting to say the
least!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What will be will be!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I got some beautiful cards from Mum, Lori and the
Zigdermanns which had some awesome words of encouragement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am so blessed to have so many friends and
family supporting this adventure! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Day One down…come at me Day Two!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Day Two – 04/12/13</u> – Well we woke this morning after
FREEZING our arses off all night!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dad
and Rod at least got to spoon a little (that may be an exaggeration) but Lori
and I were SO COLD!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After stopping only
at 10:30pm the night before, we had a quick set up and laid our heads
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not preparing was a bad idea!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Disclaimer – Rod states, ‘What goes on tour stays on tour!)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, after having a rough, interrupted nights sleep, we woke
early, packed whilst still freezing and got on the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I swear my feet didn’t get warm till about
three hours later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEnfMzxSoXwOYw1Dfy-Ozp-havrksdz5GGVONX2bBvbuNBSnQ_s2wXjMa5y2lHr8yBN_L0_rxwkHwXdvsjZYidUUKwuWwSJcEbkPFHFXRC7g1225A9AyrdHRzq5WAx-_sF3emPhr4z/s1600/2013-12-05+17.58.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEnfMzxSoXwOYw1Dfy-Ozp-havrksdz5GGVONX2bBvbuNBSnQ_s2wXjMa5y2lHr8yBN_L0_rxwkHwXdvsjZYidUUKwuWwSJcEbkPFHFXRC7g1225A9AyrdHRzq5WAx-_sF3emPhr4z/s200/2013-12-05+17.58.21.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chocy gobler!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our drive today was again beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The weather was magic, everyone was cheery (after
an early catch up kip), we took our time and had a top day!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There has been something completely soothing
about this trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My relaxation has been
at a level it has not been for a long time and my stress levels have been nearly
rock bottom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The preparation for this race has been entirely bizarre and
nothing like I have ever experienced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
brain cannot completely comprehend the journey that awaits me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For this reason I have been nervous but at
the same time, 100% at ease about it all! Different, but soothing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We arrived finally at Eden at about 3pm and set up our top
little camp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has been such a blessing
to be able to use Rods camper trailer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It has been a super home away from home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After setting up we went for a little drive to town (Eden is a lovely
spot) and a look around before returning back to the park and going out for a
little run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Legs felt like they had been
in the car for two days…funny that!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a shower and relaxing for a little, we headed to the Pub
for dinner and had a gold feed and even met another runner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It has been a super day, even though it started raining
pretty constant this afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
become quite overwhelmed today by the pressure and support I have received for
this race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have got so many lovely
well wishes and kind words from so many people, including from a friend in New
Zealand this afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Further to that,
my crew who have taken time away from their lives and families to come and
support me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am truly blessed to have
so many generous kindhearted people in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I just pray and hope I can make them all proud come Friday!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With a joy in my heart and a smile on my face from a super
day, I lay my head down to get some rest tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tomorrow will be another great day of
relaxing and preparing before the big dance begins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BRING IT ON!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JnnXFCRsiuiPNuesTZjppFT7JhHvLJ91qWcL7f-O7IBDVeCkCi4UGOFu7hoQc9MHuw4BOnGs8Bm8omhjf_M_W1JdCv1rNh5dtOxQaHhVkmBjkd3eD2hgfGBmTpDxxJQBd9cdXdNO/s1600/2013-12-05+12.13.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JnnXFCRsiuiPNuesTZjppFT7JhHvLJ91qWcL7f-O7IBDVeCkCi4UGOFu7hoQc9MHuw4BOnGs8Bm8omhjf_M_W1JdCv1rNh5dtOxQaHhVkmBjkd3eD2hgfGBmTpDxxJQBd9cdXdNO/s200/2013-12-05+12.13.12.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chillin out before race day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Day 3 – 05/12/2013</u> – The nerves are mounting!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today was blessed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cruisy, sleep in (never happens!), quick
podcast chat with Jeff ( Coach Jeff Podcast) great coffee and tangello at a
local gourmet deli, shopping at an awesome little hippy shop and catching up
with fellow runners and friends, new and old!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We had a little crew meeting and talk about what was ahead…I am so
fortunate to have these guys on my team!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLcsqa7G-ZIVxYYOfDklIPiJMnDboeG2RGJTYo6j-2KGrh_ZWr_-UKCFv2w2b0bwYPmB8szSXcAFU0JMv7osO7p9clTYmZwr0MG7KXXspgTo0uzu-qKwB66T3pMRIbnqtPiBmyhl-A/s1600/2013-12-05+20.22.49-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLcsqa7G-ZIVxYYOfDklIPiJMnDboeG2RGJTYo6j-2KGrh_ZWr_-UKCFv2w2b0bwYPmB8szSXcAFU0JMv7osO7p9clTYmZwr0MG7KXXspgTo0uzu-qKwB66T3pMRIbnqtPiBmyhl-A/s200/2013-12-05+20.22.49-2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-race briefing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We headed to race briefing and dinner tonight and had a
ripper time there chatting, eating and hearing about what was ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got a chance to meet an exiting new friend
and fellow runner Grant, who is a raw food ultra runner ( rawaussieathlete.com
), I am sure I will be throwing a number of emails and questions at him in the
coming weeks!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a champ!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a great time and many laughs, it was home, have a
cuppa and then off to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life is
blessed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am ready, lets get this dance
on!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cold, hot, up/down, weak, strong….no
matter what, I am ready to rock this party! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Diary….see you in 240km!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>08/12/13 – Contentment, Sleep Monsters and Sufferfest</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJfsU9ki2oQQk8oEb3OrevyzTSFtrHnKbK_aBeEQg6lP-hcD8D3KjOf2IOI9ipa9O7fpCvvdKvdSOSelBfGzQytR7jDQsTr0lboepQ9e9ofv35MAXCf6PSu_FSNocVrztMilU3rmh/s1600/2013-12-06+05.14.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJfsU9ki2oQQk8oEb3OrevyzTSFtrHnKbK_aBeEQg6lP-hcD8D3KjOf2IOI9ipa9O7fpCvvdKvdSOSelBfGzQytR7jDQsTr0lboepQ9e9ofv35MAXCf6PSu_FSNocVrztMilU3rmh/s200/2013-12-06+05.14.45.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre Start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgem3zHkMlnsKS3gYg4DDV_wUCgAvDLff-P_SQY7pPB2XcLe62sFRw23quGxGdQusWqSDxBuPAcJLpWiLUdwP4ncamKvZ6Hey5pfq1zoYc2H9QPDrxTU4120RSQVs7PB9Adqcrv46AH/s1600/2013-12-06+05.27.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgem3zHkMlnsKS3gYg4DDV_wUCgAvDLff-P_SQY7pPB2XcLe62sFRw23quGxGdQusWqSDxBuPAcJLpWiLUdwP4ncamKvZ6Hey5pfq1zoYc2H9QPDrxTU4120RSQVs7PB9Adqcrv46AH/s200/2013-12-06+05.27.41.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start crew</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Disclaimer – </u>Some of this may not be in the correct
order as your brain becomes a little mush after running for so long!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OMGosh, where do you start with a race report for a 240km
run?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the moment I am sitting back
with my feet in the air cause of the brutal swelling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What an adventure it has been though!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lets start a little before the beginning!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>The night before</u> – We slept in the camper trailer
again…in cyclonic winds!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Needless to
say, we all got about 1-2hrs sleep each in TOTAL!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More on that later!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsf0dUMFlFP0iN1GuIv6wNuvWNHa3xIhMgjYKFlZIJ_s2WpABz0xYmAiRituAcCYJBuUqX2W-gRLhW8P4XE0L2H5VoYXkxSQwMTtpcydyA9RO4SMw6cs35eg_bWYA5NfkSlmtPOh1b/s1600/2013-12-06+09.36.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsf0dUMFlFP0iN1GuIv6wNuvWNHa3xIhMgjYKFlZIJ_s2WpABz0xYmAiRituAcCYJBuUqX2W-gRLhW8P4XE0L2H5VoYXkxSQwMTtpcydyA9RO4SMw6cs35eg_bWYA5NfkSlmtPOh1b/s200/2013-12-06+09.36.14.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#shirtsareforsuckers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Race Day – Contentment –</u> After our terrible nights
sleep we turned up to the start line in serious anticipation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were all super excited and ready to get
the show on the road!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The race started
on the beach in Eden and after some photos and nervous excitement we got
started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDqKSJ68DKQSfGu5r4qaoAhv6R9HukNY912P7nNrwdEiAHU4gJi5ENuZ7WN9zJpbSiQVLgj5fRSRAeBRXlPcoVWhhE0WYUGogM3U4ETz9h-HS2YbsvX-GBK_BGhrearPEw-61ywgH/s1600/2013-12-06+12.24.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDqKSJ68DKQSfGu5r4qaoAhv6R9HukNY912P7nNrwdEiAHU4gJi5ENuZ7WN9zJpbSiQVLgj5fRSRAeBRXlPcoVWhhE0WYUGogM3U4ETz9h-HS2YbsvX-GBK_BGhrearPEw-61ywgH/s200/2013-12-06+12.24.12.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#again YES!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The start of the race went along swimmingly, chatting to a
heap of people and making some new friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I got chatting to a guy named Joe Ward who was lovely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After some general conversation I found out
that he was also a vegan!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Must have been
why he was so nice!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ha!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We ran together up until the first Checkpoint,
chatting and enjoying each others company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It surely made the time go quickly!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So stoked I met him and I am sure we will stay in touch and be friends
for a long time, gold!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After leaving Joe, I was able to see my crew for the first
time at 24k.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a quick in and out
stop, grabbing some food and saying g’day before heading on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5V9-8smuVwMHahcsYfiFHSqtBMXDyE7GKPpE0XazwsoZb2K3bHxIQBrsBCEMnMfcnv24xSZcMIS-q2LVMk8x_euM8-NUYPNaxGq_NWgBJspPqu0MYKcY5sa4AVwk39DvZTQuSVD9d/s1600/2013-12-06+14.21.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5V9-8smuVwMHahcsYfiFHSqtBMXDyE7GKPpE0XazwsoZb2K3bHxIQBrsBCEMnMfcnv24xSZcMIS-q2LVMk8x_euM8-NUYPNaxGq_NWgBJspPqu0MYKcY5sa4AVwk39DvZTQuSVD9d/s200/2013-12-06+14.21.41.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Badwater kit!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After leaving the Checkpoint, I met a few more friends and
was really honoured to get to share some k’s with running royalty Jane Trumper
and Andy Bowen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They made me feel really
welcome and although I already knew Andy who is a top bloke, it was super to
get to know Jane a little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The people I
meet through ultra running never cease to amaze me by their friendliness and
outreaching of love and kindness.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The opening stages of the race were incredibly beautiful (as
the whole race was) and it wasn’t hard to look around and enjoy Gods beautiful
country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For what downfalls our country
has we are incredibly blessed to live here!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6j5sAU0q21I9KgT0yH4A0_y_TMC7JLPT-MQjfxq2sMmE10MAgJgmipZwbJHW9PvyIG00YIMrAuY8nVW4VfqSwN53yVEgHVT7uPaH-l_wprDnxTlTOvnFiSHfCu9lYscoIAMPK6WU5/s1600/2013-12-06+16.51.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6j5sAU0q21I9KgT0yH4A0_y_TMC7JLPT-MQjfxq2sMmE10MAgJgmipZwbJHW9PvyIG00YIMrAuY8nVW4VfqSwN53yVEgHVT7uPaH-l_wprDnxTlTOvnFiSHfCu9lYscoIAMPK6WU5/s200/2013-12-06+16.51.17.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JUMP Lori</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Upon meeting my crew again at Checkpoint 2, I had needed to
go to the loo for about an hour and was promised there was a toilet there…well
there was, however it was locked!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ran
through disappointed and had to go bush!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After this my belly felt a fair bit better and I carried on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got chatting to Micky Arthur who was a top
fella and has done some amazing endurance events all round the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t get to spend ages with him but
enjoyed the time we got to spend together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After this I spent a fair bit of time on my own in the
wind!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The plains were open and the wind
gusts were pretty brutal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This didn’t
bother me too much, and once on my own, really started ticking of some good km
splits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My whole goal for the first
12hrs was to be consistent, keep moving forward and enjoying myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every now and then I would find myself
breaking the race down and thinking too far ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find this is dangerous and I am better just
taking each moment as it presents itself, concentrating on what is going on in
the present.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSLmUg2cPVyutNNYKZbEhEFdyOEwK-rueYC8VjUjQlYTR7TpA-n0MWuQgtvrDpwvafa4nTYIUj1qbQey3mC3Tt3VlsEpg2V6d8fDdzfaCce7u5S3YZC6V5FjObYsGaKJR2YTBIzFO/s1600/2013-12-06+16.59.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSLmUg2cPVyutNNYKZbEhEFdyOEwK-rueYC8VjUjQlYTR7TpA-n0MWuQgtvrDpwvafa4nTYIUj1qbQey3mC3Tt3VlsEpg2V6d8fDdzfaCce7u5S3YZC6V5FjObYsGaKJR2YTBIzFO/s200/2013-12-06+16.59.19.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mother ship</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a short time, I got to a major climb in the race
called Big Jack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was able to have a
crew member join me so Dad jumped out and hiked the hill with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was good to have his company and do it
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good times!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After leaving dad, I continued to click of 5km sections
(generally where I would meet the crew) in good time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My consistency proved valuable as I started
working my way up the field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From this
point, for the entirety of the race, I can not remember anyone passing me
(although I passed quite a lot).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pretty
stoked with that!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The only real concern through the day was that I only took
two pee’s I think, and they were bright yellow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Any runner knows this is not ideal and I needed to get more fluids into
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started to do this but would prove
problematic later on….</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmNDXYWexL_0aH_E7hst_QfB7x_2BEBq-ruOVPNiMKVAExfp0hPhliCh5Zt8m_yYD_1jLFfjMgP3pFWIDc3n5KmrH-WfRxnKV5F9d2uv5jn6lNfIRMGiXEpZbHfp3JHXgn_Cev89yo/s1600/2013-12-06+17.40.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmNDXYWexL_0aH_E7hst_QfB7x_2BEBq-ruOVPNiMKVAExfp0hPhliCh5Zt8m_yYD_1jLFfjMgP3pFWIDc3n5KmrH-WfRxnKV5F9d2uv5jn6lNfIRMGiXEpZbHfp3JHXgn_Cev89yo/s200/2013-12-06+17.40.24.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Metronome k's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The day ticked by and coming up to the 12hr mark, I had
clocked up 100km.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was a mini goal I
had and I was really happy to have achieved a first little milestone!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only 140k to go!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ha!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next few hours was on road with some good climbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had a good old chat with some country boys
who were intrigued as to what was going on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Very funny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I continued to keep
my consistency when I was able have a pacer the rest of the race, 8:30pm
daylight savings time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dad joined me here and we had some good chats and spoke with
some friends on the phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was nice
to hear some familiar voices however at this point I wasn’t so keen to be
chatting too much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is where the
sleep monsters arrived!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Sleep Monsters</u> – For those who don’t know, sleep
monsters occur in ultras when you have been running for a long time and start
falling asleep while running!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
never experienced this before, however, due to my terrible sleep the previous
nights, I was about to be introduced to the beast big time!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From about 10pm to about 5am I was in a bad way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First thing – I was peeing about every
20min…not good as electrolyte balance gets thrown out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Second thing – I was falling asleep every
time I started power hiking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was like
nothing I had ever experienced before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The feeling of not being able to control your body to stay awake when
you know it can is terrible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
staggering all over the road on numerous occasions and at times, when I stopped
to pee, it felt like my sandals were about a foot thick and I was sinking into
them, about to face plant into the dirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Through the night there were some serious climbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dad urged me along the best he could and we
spoke a fair bit about me having a power nap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was really keen on this idea, as I could not control what my body was
doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dad thought it was a bad idea
though as it was so cold and he thought I would find it too hard to get out of
the car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I decided to battle on in the
hope that sun up would revitalise me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have read a number of race reports where this has helped runners in the past so
I was keen to see if it was true!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Another thing that encouraged me to keep going , as much as I don’t like
relishing in peoples struggles, was seeing another runner taking about three
steps (two sideways and one forward) then needing to hang on to her pacer to
remain upright!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was in a bad
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I though to myself, if she can keep
going, so can I!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The sun started to rise just outside Jindabyne, another
milestone I had set in my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
keen to try and get to 180km in 24hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I fell just short of my goal, getting to 178km in that time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Close enough!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At this point, Rod was keen to join me while dad had a
rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We started a massive climb out of
town and this is where the sufferfest began.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Sufferfest </u>– As day two began the pain kicked into a
new gear!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The whole day was nothing like
I have ever experienced before!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pain
in the front of my shins and legs in general was devastating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Walking hurt but had to be done as there were
SO many long steep hills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Running took
time to get up to speed as every time I started the pain was so intense it took
a number of steps to get to any sort of minimal speed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From here on in the k’s seemed to take
FOREVER!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was playing with my mind
as I was just keen to get there but it was taking so long!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hills were also mind destroying!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew we had to be going up, like the top of
Australia up, but every time I seemed to do a massive climb, there was a
massive descent following!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ugh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rod did a good job of keeping me moving
forward, as frustrating as it must have been for a speedster like him! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From about half way through the night Friday to the end of
the race, I really did not want to eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I knew I had to, but nothing appealed to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Such a bad feeling!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I eventually made it to Perisher, which was the last Check
in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here, I was pretty much
annihilated!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I went to the loo, washed
my face and generally felt sorry for myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The k’s seemed to go SO slow and my body was SO ruined, life was tough
at that point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I continued to move
forward with Rod helping me along the way and Dad and Lori helping along.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Slowly but surely, we kept going and EVENTUALLY arrived at
Charlottes Pass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a freaking
relief!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dad told me that the organisers had
said that I wasn’t able to wear my sandals to the summit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At that point I was beyond caring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had my Altra shoes ready in case and they
were to be my footwear for the last 18k.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sandals for 222km is a pretty darn good effort I reckon!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t even realise either but Lori pointed
out that my hands were swollen…like super swollen!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The race medic checked me over and said that
I had some good hypotremia and oedema going on…no more water for me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These conditions can be fatal so I listened good
and proper!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whilst concerning it was not
going to stop me finishing!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8635q2iYxfA3eKqZJaKtAlJCWVpHOLpjw4pxlI9JDYvr5rc0fUYifCF-jGNMK0CeAz1noA3DikY0WQkrnYKoYdwY1xnGT-FLYLPMdB7npmrzZYwQMfQMJZGQBhv6eSPlsSywyYYF/s1600/2013-12-07+14.38.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8635q2iYxfA3eKqZJaKtAlJCWVpHOLpjw4pxlI9JDYvr5rc0fUYifCF-jGNMK0CeAz1noA3DikY0WQkrnYKoYdwY1xnGT-FLYLPMdB7npmrzZYwQMfQMJZGQBhv6eSPlsSywyYYF/s400/2013-12-07+14.38.59.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of Australia!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2Z_nGn5ZpMTn5NfKmci8dGIvs9lTdOpI0VD_JqwQ2LwDxuJrTIdCR7DMUR8Q6rLS83KqV4xy_P7UIHsV_pQvABeXpLmVwJb6L8ubsGlCeK9teHI6u8D8n-02DnpjjzbLHDO7qkmc/s1600/2013-12-09+20.47.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2Z_nGn5ZpMTn5NfKmci8dGIvs9lTdOpI0VD_JqwQ2LwDxuJrTIdCR7DMUR8Q6rLS83KqV4xy_P7UIHsV_pQvABeXpLmVwJb6L8ubsGlCeK9teHI6u8D8n-02DnpjjzbLHDO7qkmc/s200/2013-12-09+20.47.00.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vegan wearin my Akubra trophy! Oxymoron but super proud!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Charlottes Pass to the Summit of Kosciuszko was super
special!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were able to do it with our
whole crew so we took our time, enjoyed the views and loved every minute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was HEAPS of snow which made things a
bit more challenging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once we got to the
top after about a 9k hike we got some beautiful photos and then started heading
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The conditions were super icy and
at one point there was a bit of an avalanche and I slid about a meter and a
half down a VERY steep slope!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Close
call!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We continued to work our way down
and relished in our amazing day!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Coming
up to the finish I was just overwhelmingly happy to finish and stop moving
forward!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I reached the finish line in
35hr 14min and 51sec.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So so stoked with
my achievement! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The finish was a little
bittersweet though as I found out the organizers weren’t letting any one else
up to the summit about 15min before I finished due to safety concerns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whilst I appreciate this would have been one
of the hardest decisions for them to make I completely understand why they
did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any sort of accident could
jeopardise future races.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a little
rest, we headed back to our accommodation after a while, showered and rested
up!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Job done!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87MROMDRE_wSCrhGzthl3vNSfy4RBiY-GkmwCwEAiUksa-isrWaB17OI6DufPPa0zvvvHGQw1G9brqNXYY9iwnXsFvyoaZZylQbOrTda8C4xCYZQb-CXdXC6XJf_1iXBfv7LDcsvR/s1600/2013-12-07+14.45.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87MROMDRE_wSCrhGzthl3vNSfy4RBiY-GkmwCwEAiUksa-isrWaB17OI6DufPPa0zvvvHGQw1G9brqNXYY9iwnXsFvyoaZZylQbOrTda8C4xCYZQb-CXdXC6XJf_1iXBfv7LDcsvR/s400/2013-12-07+14.45.11.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crew on top of Kosci! Lori, Me, Rod and Dad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>The wrap up</u> – Sunday morning there was a race
breakfast then presentations.. This was SUPER special, hearing stories and
receiving our C2K Akubra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though I’m
vegan, I will wear this trophy with pride!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We then relaxed in our unit and I got my feet up as they got REALLY
swollen!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We headed to a dinner at the
pub at night and caught up with all our new friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We met so many amazing people and their crews
on this journey but most memorable would be Kieron, Paul, Lisa, Jane, Joe, Nat,
those along with our existing friends will stay with us for a long time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lastly, my crew. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t even know where to start!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To say
that this journey wouldn’t have been possible without you is the understatement
of the year!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your encouragement,
devotion, commitment, selflessness and love was amazing!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dad, Lori and Rod, you deserve as much or
more recognition for the success of this race as I have received.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For you to all give up your time away from
your families and give so much of yourselves blows me away!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you, thank you, thank you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are all so beautiful and I am forever
indebted to you!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiun6qh7-8kE0FV3G2O5VmcGHXnwuVCUrryHCUhNECVW4aqcvLm6X2u724QVsXIHU7hiJPlwN3KB3rpbIzL7NOhqkMCrEVMReXs1Uq_g5joA2KGhgi1MG7TDFtBRWzgfqdBnqyy4bLQ/s1600/2013-12-07+05.32.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiun6qh7-8kE0FV3G2O5VmcGHXnwuVCUrryHCUhNECVW4aqcvLm6X2u724QVsXIHU7hiJPlwN3KB3rpbIzL7NOhqkMCrEVMReXs1Uq_g5joA2KGhgi1MG7TDFtBRWzgfqdBnqyy4bLQ/s200/2013-12-07+05.32.01.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It DID just work!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the aftermath of this pilgrimage I am so very proud of
how I performed in my first C2K.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
more than I could have ever expected and harder than I could have ever
imagined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This race now holds a special
place in my heart and I hope to be back next year toeing the start line, ready
to do it all again!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>GOOD TIMES friends!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We now start our journey home where we can relax, chat and
debrief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What next for the
TattooRunner….time will tell!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love you
all, thank you for being there for me, supporting me and saying such nice
things about my lunacy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love you all and
Ill see yall soon!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Run Free…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-1131465573152238972013-11-30T02:29:00.003-08:002013-11-30T02:29:41.563-08:00The madness awaits.So, it has been with much patients, preparation, excitement, nervousness, anticipation and general 'I'm scared beyond scared'ness that I have been building and waiting for this coming weekend. For those of you new to my blog, this coming Friday I will be facing my biggest running challenge thus far. A 240km foot race from the coast at Eden (about six hours south of Sydney) to the top of Australia's tallest peek, Mt Kosciuszko. <br />
<br />
I have what I think is great balance in my crew....consisting of my dad, Lori, Rod and my sister Melinda. On Tuesday, we are starting the drive (yes we are DRIVING down!) for the nervousness to continue to mount. This thing is gonna be amazing!<br />
<br />
In the lead up to this race, a lot of people have been talking to me about it, getting excited for me, offering encouragement and generally being bewildered by the magnitude of the task ahead. This has made me take a step back a number of times and think about what is to come. When reflecting and imagining what is to be, I nearly have a quiet chuckle to myself as I dont really think what I am doing is all that special. Let me explain...<br />
<br />
So often in life we say no to things and dont even attempt them, for a lot of reason, but generally the main one is fear. Fear of the unknown, personal doubt, what others will say, but more prominently, fear of failure. Now, to a rational person, this may be a genuine fear, but not one that I want to entertain in my life, or let rule my existence. Fear is more often than not in our minds. The best way, I think to confront it, is to commit to something that completely scares the crap out of me! Don't think, just do (or in my case enter) and then panic when it is too late! I have said to a few friends in the build up, that 100mile trail races are now are my favorite distance and whilst I have respect for them, the distance no longer 'scares' me. 240km though, with a hell of a lot of climbing does though! Given, one of the reasons I am going down to give this monster my best shot!<br />
<br />
One of my great friends Nix gave me a card yesterday with a quote I had already found and saved. It was a timely reminder and affirmation that you can do ANYTHING if you really want to. 'Do not follow where the path my lead. Go, instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.' Ralph Waldo Emerson. That takes courage, it takes guts and a certain amount of calculated stupidity...all of which I have some of, and maybe more of some than the other! I believe that we ALL possess, deep within our spirits, a sence of adventure, creativity, excitement and a longing for the unknown. Another quote I always remember goes something like, 'Only thoes who risk going to far can possiblly find out how far they can go.'<br />
<br />
So, while I continue to prepare and build excitement for the coming week, I want to encourage you. Do something that you might not be so sure you can complete and give it a red hot go. If you fail, big deal....learn and try again. This last year has built within me a spirit of 'I would rather try and fail spectacularly that not try and never know'. You are better, stronger, smarter, more amazing, beautiful, destined, loved, able, prepared and need to go beyond yourself. Reach high, push your limits, become better...forks to the stagnate! You inspire me friends and I hope in a small way, one step at a time, this weekend I can inspire you! Run free, vegan power! <br />
<br />
PS - If you want to follow my adventure, the race begins at 5:30am on Friday the 6th of December. There is a live update section on the website which you can find at http://www.coast2kosci.com/live.php<br />
<br />
I also want to thank all those who have sponsored me and helped me out in the lead up to this run. Nanas Pantry for the beautiful snacks and food to keep me and my crew powered up. At One Food bars for making incredibly beautiful raw food bars which I will be eating whilst running. Rod for helping out with the use of his camper trailer. Lori for the crew kit, so so rad! Dad for the $$ he will be putting into food and the use of his vehicle. Tegan and my beautiful girls for letting me go down for this mad adventure. And lastly but most importantly, one monetary donor who wants to stay autonomous....you are incredible! Thank you for the funds to assist in this journey! You inspire me more than you know and your generosity is indescribable! Run Free!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-67994518722583702902013-11-18T02:12:00.000-08:002013-11-18T02:12:19.794-08:00Giving = Recieving'No one ever became poor by giving' Anne Frank<br />
<br />
In the past, giving has been something that I have done a little, but often struggled with. I don't really know why, but it has been a trait in my life that I have really wanted to change. As time has past, and I have become increasingly detached from material objects and less involved in myself and more interested in others worlds, it has become easier and easier to give, and give generouslly.<br />
<br />
As I have become an ultra runner, peoples amazing-ness continues to boggle me. Whilst my adventures are in all honesty selfish ambition, friends, and even strangers have been so giving of finance, products, love, support, kind words and blessings beyond my comprehension. This has again been displayed in the lead up to my next running challenge Coast 2 Kosci. So so blessed, I cant believe it! Without naming names (you know who you are) you mean the world to me and I pray your return is 1000 fold! <br />
<br />
I know that the individuals who support me don't do it for recognition or any selfish gain, but to do something beautiful for me out of love. That kindness touches my heart and helps me aim to be a better and more giving person. I find it difficult to put my gratitude into words. Whilst I know I run a long way, and do my best to help others make their lives better, I don't think I am that different from the every day Joe...I think that's why those who support me are even more special! You inspire me, encourage me and push me to improve the person I am, day by day. <br />
<br />
So, as I move forward, think and challenge myself, I am not saying that I am giving everything away and that I dont like some nice things, but lets face it, we all have stuff we dont need or use, time to spare, money we waste on un-productive things/activities etc. I want to leave a legacy in this life and for people to remember my kindness when I am gone. I know I have a long way to go, but I am trying to improve day by day. When I get a chance (sooner rather than later), I am planning on going through a heap of my stuff and giving it all away. I'm not doing this for some sort of recognition, just to step forward, let go of material items, bless others and become more simple, humble and free.<br />
<br />
As the quote states, give, and you will be rich...not necessarily in finance, but lifes most precious commodities....love, kindness, bliss, forgiveness, integrity...the list goes on. Some of the worlds richest men have come to giving away vast majorities of their fortunes as they have come to the realisation that money don't mean squat! (ok they may be my words but you get the point!)<br />
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Lets be givers friends...aim to be below those around us by lifting them up. Be generous beyond your own ideas and belief and be blessed in the process. These are the things that really matter in this world and that will last into eternity! Love, peace and plants to yall! Bliss. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-3252037451457215012013-11-09T21:19:00.002-08:002013-11-09T21:19:49.695-08:00Its all happening!Heya! Hope y'all going ripper and lovin the warm weather again! Got some catching up to do today and let you know about some cool stuff going on with the TattooRunner! So....here we go!<br />
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First up - I have, for the last month or so been backlogging some blogs for my work, Nanas Pantry. These blogs have now started going live and if ya keen, you should check them out! Basically, each week I am doing a shortish post about a product from the store and providing a reciepe about the product. It is something I am really excited about and enjoying a lot! If you get a chance, please take a look, duck in store, say gday and grab the product blogged about! For the link, go to https://nanaspantry.com.au/blog<br />
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Secondly - I am now a distributor for Froothie Blenders. They are amazing blenders, which we use every day. They are commercial level and pulverize anything thrown in them! A HIGHLY recommended product! If you are keen for a superior quality blender, please check out http://www.froothie.com.au/ and contact me directly at grills_1@hotmail.com <br />
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Thirdly - The TattooRunner has been at the podcasting caper once again! Coach Jeff has graciouslly had me on for a third time and it was a fun chat and re-cap on the Glasshouse 100miler plus a heap of other random ramblings. If your keen for a listen, go to http://www.coachjeff.com.au/2013/11/09/coach-jeff-podcast-368-running-podcast-123-tattoo-runner/<br />
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Last of all, today is my 31st Birthday! Last year I set myself some fitness and health goals. Whilst some of these have been met and exceeded, some of them have been left behind. I am approaching my 31st year alive with some renewed vision and big goals. I will be tracking a lot of this in future blogs, but the main thing I am wanting to improve is my diet. Most of you know I am vegan which has been going great for my running and when I eat right, my health thrives. I have however been enjoying vegan treats and overeating a bit too much (sometimes it is easy to use the 'Im training a lot' excuse but that is no longer cutting it!) I know my diet is cleaner than probably 80% of the population however I want to focus my diet on eating for lifelong health which in turn will improve my running performance and physique. I am completlly convinced that a clean vegan diet is not only the optimal fuel for endurance athletes, its the perfect way to eat for a long, sickness preventing life. As I said, I will talk about this in future posts, but onward and upward!<br />
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Thanks peeps for checking in on the blog again! Hope it finds you rockin and eatin plenty of plants! Cant wait to catch up with you soon and hope and pray you have a ripper week! Run run free, plant strong friends!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-58798627464836695372013-11-03T00:00:00.001-07:002013-11-03T00:00:18.108-07:00I'm back!Ha yall! I hope this is finding you fit, rockin and eatin some plants! <br />
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Well it has been an interesting ride since the 100miler, let me tell you! As most of you would probably know (and I have previously blogged about), I picked up a pretty bad Achilles injury about six-seven weeks ago and have been doing some extensive rehab since! After seeing my lovely friend and physio Nix at Barolin Physio, Bundaberg regularly (they are amazing so please go there if you have any physio needs!) and following my come-back plan diligently, I can safely say.....I AM BACK! This is the first injury where I have followed instruction and exercise 100%. I have kept the focus of REALLY want to compete in Coast 2 Kosci and line up on start day un-injured! <br />
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In saying this, my preparation has been COMPLETELY different to what I had planned and I usually do in lead up to a big long race. As my friends and training buddies know, I am all about bulk mileage. You wanna do a long race, you better be runnin a long way in training! So not being able to do this has really taken some determination and innovation to a) keep me fit and b) get me back running as soon and as far as possible before the big day.<br />
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During my rehab, apart from running VERY short distances and building VERY slowly, doing my exercises, seeing Nix weekly and a lot of icing, I have been doing a heap of swimming. I used to hate swimming however this time around I have been finding it very enjoyable and been logging 10-15km a week on top of the running I have been able to complete in my rehab plan. I want to say a massive thankyou to Ian at Anzac Pool Bundaberg for hooking a brother up and seriously looking after me in my unconventional build up to a little 240km run I have fast approaching! Thanks mate, you have been a serious blessing!<br />
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So, in saying all this, I am now back to doing a 'normal' program. I am still doing 100% what I am told and will not be logging quite the k's I would like to be doing, but still doing some decent long running. I am also taking rest days (ok, I am swimming 3k on these days) from running which I dont usualy like to do but I think in the lead up to this event will keep me fresh.<br />
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I just want to thank you all for your support and encouragement over the last couple of months. I am like a lost kid when I can not run and I am sure I have been driving thoes close to me a little crazy. It is such a blessing to be back out there, getting amongst it and enjoying the wind in my flowing locks. My fitness has only dropped a little since the 100miler (thanks to the swimming) and I know I am gonna be in good shape come the 6th of December for what will be my most epic running challange yet! I am aiming to drop a few kg's over the next month to tune up for the big day but, three words my friends...BRING IT ON!<br />
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A couple of last things.....thanks to my beautiful wife Tegs and my family for helping me and putting up with me though this injury and supporting me in my quest for C2K. Also, thanks to my running friends in Bundy and other towns, particularlly my bestie Lori for believing I can come back in time for a little stroll to the top of Australia! Run Free!<br />
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On a last note, I am now also blogging for my work, Nanas Pantry. I am going to be reviewing a product each week, talking about it and then providing a recipe to try out as well. I believe the blog should start going live in the next couple of days, so please keep an eye on https://nanaspantry.com.au/ for the TattooRunners side project! Check it out and let me know what you think! Good fun! Have a ripper week friends! Plant on!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-51426703706781541802013-10-19T20:18:00.000-07:002013-10-19T20:18:16.740-07:00You are what you surround yourself with.After school I was an exchange student in Finland. Due to its geography, it is dark for 5-6months of the year straight and light for 5-6months of the year straight. During the dark months, suicide rates are extremely high due to the oppressiveness of no sunlight. Our surroundings can have a profound affect on our own well being. (Note - not the happiest way to start my blog but stick with me people!) <br />
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I like to think that I am a pretty positive and motivated person. I know at times I have my rants and get down and out/lazy like everyone else but for the most part I try and keep things up beat and purposeful. <br />
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In saying this, sometimes it's hard to stay happy, energetic and generally moving forward with a plan. I also realize that I can do a lot more in my life to go the extra mile to help people. This is where the people you associate with and the company you keep can have a big impact on how you view the world and the thoughts/actions you pursue. Our friends nearly always reflect the person we become.<br />
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My thoughts for this post were provoked from my new job. It is amazing! The people that I work with, including the bosses are incredible. They truly make the business successful by being them! They are positive, happy, energetic, can never do enough for a customer, health conscious, organized, and motivating. Never before have I worked in an environment quite like it. SO many times at work I have found myself doing something a little extra for a customer or work colleague, not because I want to impress anyone, but because the company and environment I am working in allows and facilitates this kind of thinking and action. It is always a warm feeling when I find myself in this situation. I am becoming a more compassionate, helpful, friendly and motivated person. I am becoming the good that is surrounding me.<br />
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Now this can also, as I am sure you know, work in the opposite. If you surround yourself with negativity, violence, hate, greed etc....your character will slowly and nearly always become those things. I once read that if you take your five closest friends and averaged their weights, that is probably what you will weigh. I know this is a little trivial but you get what I mean! <br />
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So....who is around you? What do you spend your time doing, thinking about, talking about, researching, listening to and exposing your emotions to? Is it positive or negative? Who do you want to become? Let me tell you, if you are a person in the thick of the later environment, it is not too late. If you are a person DOING the pulling down, gossiping, negative talk etc WAKE UP! Take a good hard look at where you are at and what you are doing. As harsh as it sounds you might need to find new friends, leave a club or group, read a different genre of books, take steps to start thinking more positive thoughts....anything to start pulling yourself out of the mire you may be in.<br />
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Don't wait friends! Life is far to short to be miserable! I have a saying that I aim to live every day better than the one before. Sure I don't always succeed but you are only a quitter when you stop trying! Take a subjective view. We are so incredibly blessed beyond imagination and really have nothing to complain about. I challenge you, this week, do something, just one thing to try and make your life more positive. The power is yours and only you can change. Take some ownership friends and lets help make this world, those we come in contact with and meet, better! Love to you all. Peace, plants...TattooRunner Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-13184185091795088602013-10-11T15:16:00.001-07:002013-10-11T15:16:01.541-07:00MOVEThis week I watched a video on Vimeo...then watched it again, and again. It is simply titled MOVE and completely resonated with my spirit and views on life! So whats up?!<br />
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As humans, we make excuses, we are lazy and we dont do what we know we should! I am as guilty of it as much as the next Joe (even though my name is Mat!). However, I strive, even yearn to MOVE. To put my body in motion, look after myself, try and do things 'crazy' things, and be an example to my family and friends....heck, even strangers. To LIVE alive! I want to do all I can to stay away from that drain hole as much and as long as possible. <br />
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One line really stuck with me from the clip. 'We all try to be buzy instead of being alive'. Will you get 10years down the track, look back on your life and realize you have missed being alive for the sake of keeping yourself buzy? Have you done something lately that has scared you, that you weren't sure if you could accomplish? Why not? Is another Facebook status, last minute sale, extra extra overtime, watching that second, third or tenth hour of TV for the day really making you feel alive? Why not get up, move, get your heart beating (not from all the junk in your belly!) and FEEL movement. The more you do it, the more it becomes habit, the more you will WANT to MOVE! Liberating! <br />
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So, MOVE! The message is simple! It doesn't have to be running, biking or swimming...just do something! This world is in a fat crisis! I know that sounds harsh, but take a look around. I mean REALLY take a look around! A LOT of beautiful souls are killing themselves by what they are putting in their bodies and by what they are NOT doing...MOVE! People are MASSIVE and it is getting worse! Lets buck the trend, rebel, and create our own group of humans that will make a difference to our world! One of health, movement and lifestyle! Don't give up, do something everyday, embrace this beautiful life for the beauty it beholds, not the crap society is creating! You are amazing, you can do it, you can make a difference....but it is your responsibility! Lets do it friend, enough excuses....MOVE! Run on, Plant strong! X <br />
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http://vimeo.com/74389041 <br />
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Massive thanks to Will GADD for the inspiration! Check out http://willgadd.com Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-84953341732197497632013-09-28T13:15:00.003-07:002013-09-28T13:15:50.153-07:00WHAT THE HECK?!?!OMGosh!!!! So....excitement, eagerness, fear and nervousness is present in the Grills at the moment! Let me back up a sec and let you know why!<br />
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Just before GH100, I applied for Coast to Kosci....a 240km non-stop run from the coast at Sydney to the highest point in the country. With a 46hour cut off, there is no dilly-dallying to be done in this event! To be considered for this race, applicants have to submit a running resume and meet certain qualifying standards to even be thought of. I put in last year however was not successful, which turned out to be a very good thing as mentally I was not ready! Each year they only select about 50 applicants to take part in this iconic race. As I would find out, this year there were an unprecedented number of applicants and resumes were studied thoroughly.<br />
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Today is the day runners were to find out if they were going to get the chance to attempt this epic journey. However yesterday, I received an early email saying....I GOT IN!!!! I can not believe it and am still feeling pretty overwhelmed! The enormity of the task that is C2K is mind boggling and one that I am honoured to have a bloody good crack at! Three words friends, BRING IT ON! I am in the process of rounding up a crew to support me along the way for what will be a super fun road trip and crazy race experience! I have also contacted a couple of potential sponsors to help with costs however if anyone would like to, or knows anyone who might be interested in throwing a few bucks to help with transport, accommodation, race entry etc costs, please let me know. <br />
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Now....in saying all this, there is still the small issue of my Achilles! Let me say, it is going AWESOME! I haven't run this week on physio orders however have taken to swimming! I have probably swum three times in the last three years however managed to do 6k in the last four days! I have been going with a mate Alex from Uni who is a swim coach and he has sufficiently been smashin me! Good times! I think this forced rest will be a blessing in disguise and have me keen and pumped up for the massive training that is ahead of me! <br />
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I will be commencing my C2K training tomorrow as it is 10weeks until race day (December 6th). I will be swimming long until I get the all clear from the physio however am pretty confident I am gonna be able to run sooner rather than later as it is feeling good. It is going to be a fun, exciting, load of k's next 10 weeks and I can not wait!!! YES!<br />
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Lastly friends, this Thursday afternoon I will be finished my first year of Uni!!! I can not believe how quick the time has gone! It has been hard, very time consuming and a massive challenge but one that I have enjoyed and applied myself to the best I possibly could have. I am looking forward to some time off until Term 1 next year, spending time with my girls, friends and family, working some more and putting in a load of training. Thanks to you all for your support this year and I look forward to being able to actually catching up without having to worry about getting back to the books! Have a super week peeps! Love to you all! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-26687290174922091162013-09-23T23:20:00.001-07:002013-09-23T23:20:26.394-07:00It happens to the best of us!Well, the start of this year saw my first real running injury in...maybe as long as I have been running. We all experience niggles that we self manage the best we can but the start of the year was the first running drama that has stopped me in my tracks and forced rest....until now...<br />
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So, I had four full days of no activity off after the 100miler and felt GOOD! I did a few very easy runs and then started rebuilding again this week to commence a block of BIG k's next week in prep for Coast 2 Kosci. Early in the week my right heel/achilles started to hurt a little. I self treated and it started to come good. No real drama. That is until I ran on Thursday. This run flared it up and it was hurting pretty bad.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4CqSYXyW_TfkKkl4OKd9Hy89XwCf_M4WJ90nKjieD_LhusdDwuWevT2AgELkDl7aUYGCSiJBU7jgnrDAryV3K7F5EGml4KaOLPYr1RCjTkq3_andyDouDXSmmFesjv0md71KFbeom/s1600/IMG_1605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4CqSYXyW_TfkKkl4OKd9Hy89XwCf_M4WJ90nKjieD_LhusdDwuWevT2AgELkDl7aUYGCSiJBU7jgnrDAryV3K7F5EGml4KaOLPYr1RCjTkq3_andyDouDXSmmFesjv0md71KFbeom/s320/IMG_1605.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My visibly swollen right achilles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Only runners understand, but I woke up Friday morning in Rocky (was there for Uni) and wanted to run. I planned a 13k easy run but upon my first step, my achilles was SORE! I decided to just do 8k but hobbled the whole way. I should not have done ANYTHING! Silly stubborn me! Runners will be runners. Anyway, my tendon swelled badly and I was in pain. Luckily I am studying Physio, and got some advise from my lectures. I did as I was told and managed it the best I could.<br />
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Yesterday I had to work a few hours and by last night my achilles was just as bad and the swelling had spread to my ankle. Ugh.<br />
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As I said in my last blog, I have applied for a 240km race in 11weeks. I still have every intention of running it, providing I can get my leg right. I know to non-runners it will sound dumb but so much of my identity is wrapped up in my running I just feel completely lost when I cant do it. I am only on day two of rest and I already feel fat, lazy, useless and un-prepared (even though I just did a 160k trail race!)<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESX8kvw5DZQ2BVrU6e9ogzFyUXFyPZNteGNqUoJP7Gua0qACNWdHKN9brB8U5caQgqxYWvK84ceJjrB5kqjXo9IFhsfjDnNVFnUSWVznHubk5aP6RDlNdLP_xcYBb3dBlKg8cOZ75/s1600/IMG_1607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESX8kvw5DZQ2BVrU6e9ogzFyUXFyPZNteGNqUoJP7Gua0qACNWdHKN9brB8U5caQgqxYWvK84ceJjrB5kqjXo9IFhsfjDnNVFnUSWVznHubk5aP6RDlNdLP_xcYBb3dBlKg8cOZ75/s320/IMG_1607.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swelling spread to my ankle...</td></tr>
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I am planning on taking this hopefully short time of rest to focus on getting my diet in tip top condition (got a few positive changes I want to make) and studying hard before end of year exams Wednesday and Thursday week. As much as this sucks beyond sucking I am trying to stay positive although I am already over it! I am possibility able to do some bike riding however am without a bike, so if anyone has one that they are not using that they wouldn't mind loaning me please drop me a line. <br />
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I know all things happen for a reason and this forced rest could be a potentially good thing but it is hard to see through the haze of disappointment sometimes. Thanks to all my friends and family who have already offered advise, words of encouragement and promise. I look forward to being back running very soon but until then friends, do a few k's for me ay?! Run free! x <br />
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UPDATE - So in the last two days I have seen my physio twice (thanks so so much Nix again!), been to the doctors and had an ultrasound. The end result is that I have peritendinosis....inflammation of the Achilles tendon and the sheath that surrounds it. This is the best possible news! Basically I am not running for another week (swimming only) then back to see Nix to reassess and plan from there. I am praying and hoping it will recover super super quick and I will be back running VERY soon! I will find out on Sunday if I have been successful with my Coast 2 Kosci entry....come on baby, I am keen! So, all good things! Some cross training and non weight baring will do me good and I just have to do my best to enjoy the black line! Love life brothers and sisters! Ripper!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-23500221525339825072013-09-16T02:40:00.000-07:002013-09-16T02:40:19.137-07:00Thankyou!
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Gidyup!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well this
week has been one of recovery, eating and relaxing!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life has been good but I tell ya, I cannot
wait to get back to training!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The body
has been pretty darn good, only having some swelling in my feet and tender
ankles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has been lovely to kick back,
reflect on the journey that was and look forward to what is to come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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I think in running and in life in general it’s important to
continue to set ourselves goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not
minimising the ones we are currently striving for, but having something, once
the current one is achieved, to look forward to….more on that in a bit.</div>
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A couple of things will remain with me from the 100miles of
fun I had last weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Firstly,
100miles is not that far!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ha!!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t really mean that literally cause it
is a BLOODY long way, but everything is relative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you try and think about any big goal in
life (business, sport, relationally, whatever) and focus on the end dream it
will seem insurmountable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, if
you break it down, in my case, one aid station, one hour, one km, one step at a
time, the rest will take care of its self.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>By doing this during the race, I never thought about the hectic distance
I was covering, just at the most, about an hour ahead.</div>
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Secondly, if you wanna race far, YOU HAVE TO RUN A LOT IN
TRAINING!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This stems back to a blog I
wrote a while ago about it being trendy at the moment to try and do less and
less but still achieve big goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A lot
of people these days seem to want to take the easy road yet still perform on
the big stage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t really get it but
let me tell ya something…if you want to achieve something in life you HAVE to
put in the hard work!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With running ultra
marathons, that means running… and running A LOT!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rocket science I know but you would be
surprised at the amount of people that think they can run 100miles without
doing much physical, mental or emotional preparation.</div>
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Thirdly, something that I already knew VERY well, but trail
running is beautiful!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To me, it is like
being in the ocean…both are the times when I feel closest to God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When running a beautiful single track, free,
un-hindered, liberated, my spirit sores and every burden is lifted and nothing
else matters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I live for these moments
and am so so greatful for every second I get to spend in this environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I desire more and more of these experiences
and hope and pray these experiences will keep coming….and coming frequently!</div>
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Lastly, I have been COMPLETLLY overwhelmed by the support I
have received through my last blog!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have so far had over 700views…AMAZING!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
just want to thank you all for your beautiful words, wonderful support and
kindness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am humbled, blown away and
completely stoked that you <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>all are following
my journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the bottom of my
heart…THANK YOU!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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So to round things out from the beginning…What next?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well I have applied for Coast to Kosci!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s that I hear you say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well it is a 240km race from the coast in
Sydney to the highest point in Australia!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is an event that you have to actually apply for, submit a resume and
the organisers decide who gets in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I
wait with baited breath until the end of September to see if I get in but here’s
hoping and praying!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Thanks again everyone for your love and care you show
me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want you to know that it means the
world to me and I am a blessed man to have you on this crazy journey with
me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep smiling friends, love life, rip
in, set yourself some big goals and get to achieving them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Until next time….Run Free, Plant Strong!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15686213363737612877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4130300589266537336.post-81772204482053356392013-09-09T04:23:00.000-07:002013-09-09T04:23:14.443-07:00A beautiful 100miles!100miles...it's not that far! Well so Karl Meltzer says! The weekend just gone would be the next tester and a head to about the last six months of training. <br />
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Tegan, the girls and I went down to the Glasshouse Mountains on Friday and on the way met up with Andrew and his family, the owners of At One Foods (https://www.facebook.com/AtOneFoods). What a beautiful family! We spent some time with them and heard their story of the company and how they got where they are. Such an inspirational story and a quality product! I suggest you all jump onto Facebook, contact Andrew and order some awesome raw bars! Yum! I stocked up for the race and we were on our way.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The calm before the business!</td></tr>
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When we arrived it was unpack, relax and hang out with the family before briefing. My sister and grandma were also up so it was great to see them! We did our stuff, went to briefing, had a good time catching up with all the crew at Beerburrum School and then head home to get some sleep before the big day.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAcB3VFw5FRo9jqyZzRDeDbtxZCeRjw8nYJD8EWg7xr_UPZj86qj5LP1XWwWCvfNR66MLNQp78ROtyt5gkmWClLcBR5hqwekXjoG_z6Q5roqkSpSOwGXPCFP_5Oo_FPtNJDB_dYH2t/s1600/IMG_1562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAcB3VFw5FRo9jqyZzRDeDbtxZCeRjw8nYJD8EWg7xr_UPZj86qj5LP1XWwWCvfNR66MLNQp78ROtyt5gkmWClLcBR5hqwekXjoG_z6Q5roqkSpSOwGXPCFP_5Oo_FPtNJDB_dYH2t/s320/IMG_1562.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smiling all day.</td></tr>
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After some broken sleep it was up at 3:40am, got sorted and down to the school again to get goin! After some last minute instructions by Ian (race director) and some final mental games, it was go time. With nervous energy and massive excitement we were off! Andrew (my Wide Bay Fat Ass partner in crime) and I had organised to run a while together and see what happened (he was doing the 100k). It was awesome to have some company and we completed the first 10k together. After a quick blow through the school we were up and down Mt Beerburrum and then on our way.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RzRFM9TmQpkGL5RxgvqeyN3YLroFXrt-zbS8y2YzQJIARBF0AiT1KKho9C5L22lhZ6vJI2Ve0jLH7iVElWZS25jlj3OEfOGTKBrtIwkH_bMqU8sNmlyZ_TOsT2HwCSZUogNpRhGS/s1600/IMG_1570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RzRFM9TmQpkGL5RxgvqeyN3YLroFXrt-zbS8y2YzQJIARBF0AiT1KKho9C5L22lhZ6vJI2Ve0jLH7iVElWZS25jlj3OEfOGTKBrtIwkH_bMqU8sNmlyZ_TOsT2HwCSZUogNpRhGS/s200/IMG_1570.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfies with some mountain.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8clNGEBnP3uPBCBC4n3RY45HKkVuxeovPFhO4JtHC5g688f17uh610s2_cqk61O_9p5d8EvE8tjxPuLart9n4kPo8lEluIIV-U4kHt6Nnv-sjhgla_FhmQuc1MfdnveGzaRmgdUnD/s1600/IMG_1569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8clNGEBnP3uPBCBC4n3RY45HKkVuxeovPFhO4JtHC5g688f17uh610s2_cqk61O_9p5d8EvE8tjxPuLart9n4kPo8lEluIIV-U4kHt6Nnv-sjhgla_FhmQuc1MfdnveGzaRmgdUnD/s200/IMG_1569.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stop eating Andy, we gotta run!</td></tr>
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Things started off very cruisy. Andrew and I had a great time chatting, enjoying the weather and the awesome views along the way...even taking some time for some selflies! It was great to have his company and someone to chat with starting the day. We hit a few brutal parts in the track but still maintained a good pace, not stopping long at the aid stations....although when we did, having a good laugh at Andy's crew...a couple of mates who had a different outfit at each stop and provided some great laughs along the way! We worked through some tough sections and made our way toward to Checkpoint 8. Andy was feeling good and pulled a little ahead however the Grills caught back up and by Checkpoint 8 we were together again. I had lost 5kg already and whilst not hot or really suffering couldn't suck back any more fluid even though I was trying! We made our way through the Western loop together before he headed back toward home and I continued on my miler journey.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEyGDZZ4FZYeGPx2qwtabHPc6ZtaWbRNg7E1DLvWmlRAKfbvy4ppMlZJIUaO-zb1_lwca40Bi0JEDy7gxwTG4nnHoFvPLmaSrwF6RuCHMhGUGGMp-bv431P7VM5MGkEHG5CLxw9y3/s1600/IMG_1579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEyGDZZ4FZYeGPx2qwtabHPc6ZtaWbRNg7E1DLvWmlRAKfbvy4ppMlZJIUaO-zb1_lwca40Bi0JEDy7gxwTG4nnHoFvPLmaSrwF6RuCHMhGUGGMp-bv431P7VM5MGkEHG5CLxw9y3/s320/IMG_1579.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep, that's my dad!</td></tr>
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I ran alone for about 20k and got in a really good routine of power hiking hard any uphills and running the downs and flats. I went back and forward with a couple of blokes, one of which was goin on about not running cause he wasn't as young as me. He kept going on about it and I was a bit over it, so I give him a bit of stick about my dad being 58 and doing the miler. Basically telling him to stop whinging! This quietened him down a bit and I left him and his complaining behind!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_kR-d0BxWNCVMAIND-9oKY6RzZAl0U2JkSa5Acsr1chj098QGV1qabURK3dGxAHmZ_6barUgO_EQESlPSnsdhJ_-pOdFO8mMBUOFR1Qgzx8xjpQK4-j9ObHOK4SgcpTpUb6dBbON/s1600/IMG_1568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_kR-d0BxWNCVMAIND-9oKY6RzZAl0U2JkSa5Acsr1chj098QGV1qabURK3dGxAHmZ_6barUgO_EQESlPSnsdhJ_-pOdFO8mMBUOFR1Qgzx8xjpQK4-j9ObHOK4SgcpTpUb6dBbON/s320/IMG_1568.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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After this time on my own, I ran into Dion, a mate from previous ultras at the Glasshouse Mountains. He and his mate Lee are always a good laugh and we all seem to run a similar speed (we ended up finishing 7th, 8th and 9th!) Dion was doing the hard yards and had been spewing a bit along the way. I stuck with him, told him my plan for the day and we stayed near by for a while. I must have separated from him for a bit but then met up with him again at Checkpoint 5, just as it was coming on dark. From there we stuck together and worked hard. We ran well back to the School and reached that point (108km) by 7:10pm. We had a quick feed, caught up with our families and then were off again without mucking around too long.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyEeuJnyUq6jPVffLMoL0wY1VjTaUYvfmGxeJ7jqWuOYTzYOxR2ZuabLH6fU5L6kW6549hnL-EtUjE9ZZ6djNqiKoy4DGsjCYA8hWK2zSfwPgolJuJE4qDG9Qany90wabkgdcjB2N/s1600/IMG_1578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyEeuJnyUq6jPVffLMoL0wY1VjTaUYvfmGxeJ7jqWuOYTzYOxR2ZuabLH6fU5L6kW6549hnL-EtUjE9ZZ6djNqiKoy4DGsjCYA8hWK2zSfwPgolJuJE4qDG9Qany90wabkgdcjB2N/s320/IMG_1578.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun and games!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxf8fHDwUuxuOh4ifOpKJuvTdez2CM1Xxq1z8QPrribjRmgaaEZzgYKEv60rElGwWaH5xJ2whOMARS6wgtZ2q3zKPNV9AaoTZcp993gEfLTXXfjOxMTcAf9XgdQ2FqWV99dPYmC62/s1600/IMG_1388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxf8fHDwUuxuOh4ifOpKJuvTdez2CM1Xxq1z8QPrribjRmgaaEZzgYKEv60rElGwWaH5xJ2whOMARS6wgtZ2q3zKPNV9AaoTZcp993gEfLTXXfjOxMTcAf9XgdQ2FqWV99dPYmC62/s320/IMG_1388.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gold!</td></tr>
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From here, things went pretty un-eventful. We ran over to Wildhorse Mountain checkpoint and went straight up and down the mountain. Again we saw our crews before getting going. I had started to feel pretty sick by this stage and I think it had a fair bit to do with eating too much sweet stuff. I wanted to spew for about 3-4hours but didn't. I kept shuffling along, sticking to our power hike/run plan. I stopped with the sweet food, got on some plain stuff and slowly but surly came good. </div>
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The loops over on the Eastern section of the course are sandy...to say the least. Overall, the tracks are much flatter and runable but the sand is a killer! We battled through and Dion started doing it a little touch again. By the time we did the second loop out the Eastern side though, he got a second wind and I had to haul ass to keep up with him! We got back to Checkpoint 9 at maybe 1am, were pumped and ready to go. </div>
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One of the ladies at the Checkpoint told me I had to take a shirt with me incase I got tired and cold. I tucked a thin cotton shirt into my shorts and ran off. Tegan and the girls drove past us about 500m down the road and the shirt was annoying me so I just threw it in the car! Gold! In all the fun though, Dion and I weren't paying attention and missed a turn off into the bush. We kept running, realised we missed the turn and turned back. We found where we went wrong but ended up running maybe 2k extra. Dion was a bit cranky but you gotta roll with the punches so we smashed on.</div>
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Buy this stage of the race we were doing some math in our heads and realising we can do a decent time. We kept with our plan and were going well.</div>
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We got back to Wildhorse again, up and down and after a quick feed with our support crews got going. We took off with the finish line in our sights, kind of!! We only had 12.5km to go and we were on a flippen mission! We ran hard, well as hard as I could after about 150km! We got to the point where there was 5k to go and put the hammer down. I realised half way along this stretch that we were looking at finishing under 22hrs which spurred me on even more. We slogged, grunted and got to the finish line together, Dion and I, in 21hrs 52min!!! AMAZING!!! I was STOKED!!! An added little excitement was to find out later that I got 8th overall! Incredible! I was hooting and hollering at the finish line and felt amazing! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySaGTQMBYzOKDmm9cqqywRG-cyHSbiYvtYldxuWqzprVxfyUzGk14o7XD9zNLv5dfu2pNw8AQgCBqgeYAaCiDUeclPnXRsZ05u5Be17yL0Rq2ZRMwB1HcLNWqQkRsskAXKXZPBcQt/s1600/IMG_1576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySaGTQMBYzOKDmm9cqqywRG-cyHSbiYvtYldxuWqzprVxfyUzGk14o7XD9zNLv5dfu2pNw8AQgCBqgeYAaCiDUeclPnXRsZ05u5Be17yL0Rq2ZRMwB1HcLNWqQkRsskAXKXZPBcQt/s320/IMG_1576.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty much sums up my <br />
feelings of the day!</td></tr>
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In the wash up and in hindsight, I really cant believe my race. My quads had no pain at all and my calfs only the slightest amount! I got my new Luna Sandals (Oso's) a few weeks before race day and they were awesome! My feet had only minor soreness, felt free and loved it! I HEART Luna Sandals so very much and once again they did the job! Anyone who is looking at improving their running, having a lot of fun and freeing your feet, check out https://www.lunasandals.com </div>
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I went into the race with a goal of going under 24hrs and a secret goal of 22hrs. I never thought I would go under 22! All in all, it was a blessed, fun, ripper day...smiling the whole way! I wanna thank those who helped me out in this race and always do!...my beautiful wife, daughter and family (Mum, Dad, Melinda, Ma) for supporting me. Andy and Dion for being great company through the day. Chris at the Mower Doctor in Bundy for continuing to support my running adventures and helping out a poor Uni Student! Andrew at At One Foods. Finally and certainly not the least, all the friends I have made through trail running, the new ones I meet, the ones who know me as the TattooRunner but I have no idea who they are, the smiling faces, the guy spewing on the side of the track, the smiles, the pain, the joy, the heartbreak....I love it all! Thanks also to you for supporting and following my mad adventures and please know that I love and appreciate you all! Keep loving life, spread the word and rip in! Until next time...run free friends!!!</div>
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Special mention - Dad - first 100miler...and in under 24hrs. Lee first 100miler whilst doing it rough, Andrew - first 100k after only doing his first marathon in July this year, Coach Jeff and Lori for doing their best, inspiring others but unfortunately not quite getting the job done this time round. Jeff for finishing his first 100miler when his ankle looked like a softball at 60k! My sis for doing another 50k and all the other newbies I met along the way! Well done all, I love you all...Run Free, eat plants and get running!!! </div>
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