In this blog post, Des shares how he transitioned from chasing personal bests and comparing himself to others, to discovering a deeper 'Why'—a purpose that fuels his passion for running and adventure. His story is a testament to the power of finding joy in the process, embracing the unknown, and using running as a tool for personal growth.
The Fishermen’s Trail of the Rota Vicentina
I headed to Portugal a week after my icy Deas-Ghnàth in January.
I had a few commitments, some included running, some just normal life stuff and I wanted to really spend time with family and friends, for once.
My plans for the rest of the time were loose, but one thing I knew for sure: I wanted to go to the Fishermen’s Trail. I wasn’t sure if I would feel up to doing the whole thing or just a short section, you know, like a normal person.
Paul Giblin: The Man Running 3,000 Kilometres Along The Te Araroa Trail in New Zealand
I used to feel like Paul Giblin, the runner. But probably less so now, believe it or not, even though most of my life is still centered around running.
The last few years have been a journey. I guess a transition from travelling, training, and racing - with everything being about competing in the best races, to racing less but wanting to do more. I think we all had our challenges through the COVID period, but it likely sped up my desire for a life that felt a little more settled.
Pyllon will be in its 10th year next year you know! Crazy eh?
And I’m still excited about it.
Third Time Lucky, the Tale of Martin Gray’s Challenge Along the John Muir Way
On the 9th June 2023 Martin will set off along the John Muir Way, from Dunbar to Helensburgh, taking in 134 miles. His target is to achieve this challenge within 24 hours. With strong finishes in the West Highland Way Race and Pyllon Exposure, Martin is well capable of such a time. Pesky injuries have been the cause for him missing the start of his previous two dates for this challenge, but you know what they say - third time lucky!
The Highland High Way – a 3 day mountain adventure
And then I walked into the By The Way hostel in Tyndrum in October 2021 for the Pyllon XP4 weekend, and saw the outline of the Highland High Way route drawn on one of the beams in the common room. At first, I thought it was just another name for the West Highland Way but then I looked at the profile of the route and saw them: Ben Lomond, Ben Oss, Ben Dubhchraig. I googled, found the route online on the Long Distance Walkers Association website , and my interested was sparked.
Inverness to Skye - A Dark Adventure: Patricia Carvalho
A blog by Patricia
Last year was a tough one for me, I got injured, left jobs, lost my furry soul mate and best bunny friend and struggled all year in all areas of my life. I experienced and am still trying to deal with different types of grief and disappointment. I lost my focus and my purpose in life, felt hopeless and at times even my desire to run was nowhere to be found. I got by but, I wasn’t me. This project, in a way, brought me back to life, gave me some focus, meaning and passion to get me through the winter and it started to re-ignite a spark that I feared I was losing. I know, I hope I’ll find a bit more of me when I get going out there this weekend.