Pulling Back the Curtain on the Enigma That Is Paul Giblin

A collaboration between Ali Hall and Paul Giblin

Paul Giblin is the brains and inspiration behind Pyllon. As someone who shies away from the limelight, he can be a bit of an enigma. Much like the native Scottish red squirrel, he is happiest in nature, avoiding the masses and without drawing attention to himself.

I’m hoping this short Q&A session will highlight the fun, sensitive, goofy and human side of our friend and community founder.

Are you ready?

If you didn’t run what would you do instead?

So many things I’d do if I didn’t run! Where do I start?

1. I’d do more with music. I got into music from a very young age. Started collecting vinyl when I was still in school and DJ’d all through my 20’s. I still do quite a bit now, but I just don’t have the time to be focused enough. There’s still a Mercury Music Prize in me yet - might just have to wait a few more years 😀

2. I’d likely bag a few more big mountain peaks. Again - ultra running takes over and hasn’t left me enough time to do more. I had intentions of doing more paragliding when I lived in Chamonix but I was either running or recovering.

3. I have really enjoyed training Mya (my dog), and we hope to do some IGP trials with her. But much like running it requires a lot of time, so I’m not pushing it too much and I am making plenty of mistakes along the way. Learning a lot, but realising I don’t even know the full scale of what I don’t know! :D There are lots of parallels to coaching runners, to be honest - if there is enough drive, then it's a guidance, teaching, and confidence-building role.

4. I’d shoot more photos and videos. I’d draw and paint more. The creative stuff I really love and miss when life takes over.

5. There’s maybe 10 other things I’d love to do more of, but I’d never sleep or do anything well if I took those on too.

Have you any running habits that are slightly quirky?

Quirky? I’m not sure. I don’t like to change things much when I’m out running. I’ll rarely stop to take a top off if it’s too hot or change my shoes unless they are causing me serious pain. So, I might be in some discomfort overall, but I accept it and forget that I maybe can reduce the discomfort with a change. Is that quirky?

I also like to run barefoot the day before a race on the dirt I’ll be running. I’ve done it for years. I know there’s no benefit, but I guess it’s a ritual, and rituals have the capacity to calm nerves.

What’s a standout running moment for you?

I’ve had lots of great moments. It would be easy to list a bunch of race wins and solid performances. And they’ve been awesome. But actually, it’s been about running with people. Sharing some trails or doing a race with a great crew and feeling part of a team - on a mission together. You’ve worked super hard to achieve something, and there are people around you who know and care as much as you do.

When I think back to the End2End trail, for example - whilst it was obviously a real slog at over 2,000KM, there were so many small, wonderful moments across the four weeks. Conversations and laughs, meeting strangers in a field who had come out to run with me for an hour, friends turning up, kind words, smiles, and shared meals. That’s the stuff that really matters. 

There is a lot of heartache, too, but I guess those become standout moments too. That’s where you are presented with choices. How will you deal with a setback, and what trail will it lead you down in life?

How long have you been running for?

I’m not sure to be honest. For about 14 - 15 years now. I think I always under-estimate, so this could be way off!

How did you start running?

Same as lots of people really - in the gym! I became very conscious of my health and general lack of fitness. I started warming up on a treadmill and it grew from there. Very quickly!

What is your greatest non-race running achievement?

I guess running across the UK was an achievement. I loved running the Outer Hebrides years ago. My Dad came out to rescue me in the second half; it was just him and me at the finish. Those times I’ll never feel again. I actually did a few YouTube videos of it before vlogging was big. I’m sure they’re awful compared to today’s standards. I can’t bring myself to watch them as I miss my Dad so much, and it’s easier not to think about it. I’m glad I did that. And I’m really glad and grateful for the Pyllon Endeavour and XP events that we have done. I’ve met so many cool people and made a few friends that I’m lucky to still have.

What animal are you?

They say dogs reflect their owners, right? So, I’m a little Belgian Malinois. Pretty determined, keen to be outside, can get super-focused on stuff, and be quite wary of new things and new people.

I take a long time to get to know other people and to trust their intentions I guess - but when I do, I just want to help and be there for them. I can’t run as fast or bite as hard, but I’m fairly nimble on any terrain!

In all honesty, I’m not half the athlete of a Malinois. But it’s okay to have role models, right?

What is your ultimate running song?

Ooof. I really struggle with giving a single favourite anything! It has to be something that swells some emotion in me if I’m looking to push hard. I'm a huge fan of electronic music, so I’d normally go there. But it depends on where I’m running and the mood of the place.

Running in a forest has a very different feel to a tempo session on a cycle path. Something with a minimal syncopated beat for hard sessions and something organic that takes you on a journey over a beautiful trail through a forest. Techno to jazz and everything in between kinda covers the spectrum of the music I like.

A massive thanks to Paul for being a good sport and humouring my silly questions. If you are interested in working with Paul and allowing him to help you achieve your dreams, contact us here.

Navigating Emotional Turmoil as an Injured Runner

by John Connolly

Hey there!

I'm thrilled to share my personal journey with running ultras while overcoming setbacks. For the past 8 years, I've been immersed in the exhilarating world of ultra running, experiencing both triumphs and challenges along the way. From incredible courses around the globe, such as Western State, to conquering my first marathon at Loch Ness last year, it's been an adventure filled with unforgettable moments.

However, what makes this journey even more remarkable is the fact that I've been managing significant injuries throughout, one that required surgery 2 years ago but had to be delayed due to getting into Western States.

Just for some context, I've now had 3 meniscus procedures, 2 on my right knee and 1 on my left. I also have an issue with my lower back, which when not managed, leads to a couple of days in bed. So, join me as I delve into the ups and downs of my running and how I've tackled setbacks head-on with determination and perseverance. 

7 considerations for coping with an injury

Being a runner means embracing challenges, pushing boundaries, and constantly striving for improvement. However, when faced with an injury, the emotional toll can be just as debilitating as the physical pain.

As we navigate the frustration of not being as competitive as we desire, it's crucial to acknowledge and address the emotional turmoil that accompanies the journey to recovery. 

In this blog, we delve into the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by injured runners and explore ways to find solace and acceptance during this challenging time. 

1. Denial and Frustration

The initial response to an injury often involves denial and frustration. It's natural to feel a sense of disbelief, wondering why this setback has occurred. The frustration stems from the realisation that we won't be able to compete or perform at our desired level. Acknowledging these emotions is vital to move forward. 

 2. Grief and Loss

Injury not only affects us physically but also triggers a sense of grief and loss. We mourn the loss of our running routine, the camaraderie of races, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with achieving personal goals. It's essential to give ourselves permission to grieve and recognize that these emotions are a natural part of the healing process. 

 3. Comparison and Identity Crisis

As injured runners, we often find ourselves comparing our current situation to the achievements of others. It's easy to succumb to feelings of envy and self-doubt, questioning our worth as runners. Remember that your worth is not solely determined by your performance; embrace the opportunity to redefine your identity beyond running. 

 4. Patience and Acceptance

Healing takes time, and learning to be patient with the recovery process is crucial. Rather than focusing on what we cannot do, we should redirect our energy towards what we can do to aid our recovery. Embracing acceptance allows us to appreciate the small victories and find joy in the progress, no matter how incremental it may seem. 

 5. Building a Support System

Surrounding yourself with a supportive network is vital during this emotionally challenging time. Seek out fellow runners who may have experienced similar setbacks, join online forums, or consider seeking professional guidance. Sharing your frustrations, fears, and triumphs with others who understand can alleviate the emotional burden. 

 6. Exploring Alternate Avenues

While sidelined, explore activities that can complement your recovery and maintain your physical and mental well-being. Engage in cross-training, such as swimming or cycling, to stay active. Discover new hobbies, volunteer, or participate in non-competitive events to stay connected to the running community while giving yourself a break from the pressure to perform. 

 7. Celebrating Small Victories

Throughout your recovery journey, celebrate the small victories. Whether it's reaching a certain distance, improving flexibility, or running pain-free for a short period, each achievement is a step towards becoming a stronger runner. By acknowledging and celebrating these milestones, you'll maintain a positive mindset and fuel your motivation to keep going. 

Conclusion

While the emotional turmoil of being an injured runner can be overwhelming, remember that it's a temporary setback in your running journey.

By acknowledging and addressing the emotional challenges, building a strong support system, and embracing alternate avenues, you can find solace, acceptance, and ultimately come back stronger than ever.

Use this time to reflect, learn, and grow, and remember that your worth as a runner extends far beyond the competitive arena.

Currently, I find myself in the midst of another comeback from another injury.

Day by day, I am diligently working on rebuilding the strength in my less dominant leg while gradually increasing my running volume, beasting myself on the bike, and adding intensity to my workouts.

The progress I have made so far has been encouraging, filling me with a renewed sense of hope and determination. As plans for 2024 start to take shape, I can feel my desire to excel in my running endeavors rekindling.

With each step forward, I am filled with a growing sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead on this incredible journey.

For me, it's a process; sometimes, the path to take is clear, and other times, I can get a wee bit lost, but I've still not given up. 

Thank you to Pyllon coach, John Connolly, for the generosity of his wisdom in this piece full of golden nuggets.