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.

How to Conquer the Devil of the Highlands

by Ali Hall

Rachel storming in to take first place

Usually, what happens in a portaloo stays in a portaloo. But not today, because Grant Macdonald shares all with us. Aren’t we lucky! 

Stretching over the second half of the West Highland Way, the Devil of the Highlands is one of Scotland’s most popular ultra races. At 42 miles and 6500 feet of elevation, the route winds from Tyndrum to Fort William through some of Scotland’s most picturesque scenery. 

Known for his community-focused, charitable, fun, friendly, and inclusive races, John Duncan heads up the team behind the Devil of the Highlands and its better-known sister race, the Highland Fling. 

With promises of an epic finish line of multi-coloured banners, carnival-style flags, cheering crowds, and beer, what other enticement do athletes need to sign up to dance with the devil? 

Pyllon had six athletes start the DOTH race, and five athletes finish; we’ll come onto Grant’s mishaps shortly. 

I invite you to read along and follow the journey of four of our athletes, including Rachel Normand, the gold medalist. 

Llinos all smiles and high spirits

An insight into our athletes

Iain Quimby

With a history in Muay Thai, Glasgow lad Iain is made of tough stuff. When COVID-19 struck and closed his beloved local gym, Iain had to adapt. Running became the new passion. He hadn’t run further than 5 miles before, and suddenly, he found himself running further and faster and merging himself into the trail and ultra community. 

Seeing him in action, It’s hard to believe that Iain was once a 19-stone, bass-playing party animal, out of puff just from tying his shoelaces!

When his children came along Iain realised something had to change. Becoming a father encouraged Iain to think about his health and do something about his diet and overall well-being. He is now the bar manager of a vegan pub in the West End of Glasgow, so some of you may be his clients without even realising it. 

“Running has changed my life, it's a regular part of my routine structuring my week and life now. When I run I feel relaxed, sometimes I run and work out all the thoughts in my head and other times my mind is almost completely thoughtless, almost meditative when running, each day is purposeful.” - Iain Quimby

The weather conditions didn’t deter Iain’s focus

Grant Macdonald 

Meet Grant from the Pyllon coaching team. Did you happen to catch his amazing downhill tips on Instagram? If so, you may recall the golden advice of aeroplane arms for downhill running. Grant always brings a smile to everyone’s face. It's hard to believe that he only started running later in life, as a means of improving his health. But don’t let his later start fool you, especially since he's already donned a GB vest in 24-hour racing! He's faced some challenges in recent years and he still manages to find humor in tough situations. That's just the kind of guy he is.

"Two significant life changes have meant racing has taken a bit of a back seat for me in the last couple of years. Joining the Pyllon coaching team, and becoming a dad have meant racing has just felt less of a priority. Life has become 50% dealing with tears, tantrums and toilet issues. Being a dad has had its challenges as well.” - Grant Macdonald

Grant attributes his poor race outcome to his new hair cut - what do you think?

Rachel Normand

La Sportiva athlete, Rachel Normand, is lucky enough to live spitting distance from the Pentland Hills in Edinburgh. Both Rachel and her husband are keen runners and mountain lovers. I’m not sure if it’s common to be jealous of a baby, but for all those who follow Rachel’s Instagram account, you may turn green at the incredible adventures their one-year-old daughter, Jane, has already experienced with her outdoor-loving parents. 

Rachel discovered running while living in London, but it wasn’t until she moved to Scotland in 2017 that she found her home in the hills. 

“I love the sense of freedom you get from running on trails, and that during a run I forget to worry about all the things that usually occupy my mind.” - Rachel Normand

Rachel engaging a positive mindset

Llinos Proctor

Living on the doorstep of Bridge of Orchy, Llinos is in the enviable position of having the WHW as her local trail. With a conservation background, she now manages woodland and combines her love of nature, wildlife, and mountains with her creative side as a printmaker; she has some wonderful pieces of Scottish wildlife and landscapes. 

It’s not everyone who can claim to have four peacocks! But yep, you guessed it, Llinos can. 

Llinos describes herself as a talkative, scaredy cat. But for someone who has run the full WHWR and now the DOTH, I’d suggest she doesn’t let her fears hold her back. 

Postnatal depression led Llinos to running, and the therapeutic benefits have kept her returning to the trails regularly to ensure she is a more patient person with her family. 

“I feel calm when I run, it quiets my mind, helps me put things in perspective and connects me to my landscape.” - Llinos Proctor

When the going gets tough, Llinos keeps going

Why did you want to dance with the Devil and how did it go?

According to Iain, the route of the DOTH is one of the most scenic in the world, and who are we to disagree with him? With hopes for a top 20 finish but recognising that just finishing is an achievement, he was understandably blown away with a top 5 finish and 1st in his category. 

His stand-out moment is his final push from Lundavra to the finish line. He used the downhill to keep pressing to the end and went as fast as his legs would carry him, and as spectators will testify, he came into the finish as if he was in a 400-meter race, not a 42-miler!

“I loved this race, it was well organized, great atmosphere, organisers, marshalls and competitors were 10/10 all round.” - Iain

Massive good luck to Iain for the 2024 WHWR ballot.

Despite having not raced the DOTH before, Rachel is familiar with the route and recce’d several sections in the lead-up. In Rachel’s mind, the DOTH was to be a marker of her fitness post-pregnancy. 

“Winning the race was a dream come true. I ran easy for the first half and didn't get too carried away with racing. I ran up the Devil's Staircase which I'd done in training but didn't know I'd be able to do after twenty miles of racing!” - Rachel

Feeling strong running through Kinlochleven gave Rachel a confidence surge and encouraged her to keep her place all the way to the finish, where the pride of having her husband and daughter cheering her on as she crossed the finish line, beamed from her face. 

Even winners recognise areas of improvement. A few learning points for Rachel include moving through aid stations quicker and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset in tough times. 

Llinos went beyond her potential

Well, it would be rude not to dance with the devil, given the route passes her house, and with the offer of a babysitter for the day, Llinos was buoyed to be racing her first DOTH. Not only did she show up and run hard, but she finished an hour under the time she was aiming for. 

This race lived up to her enormous expectations, with the high point being the downhill into Fort William and the inclusive, friendly atmosphere from the race organisers and marshals. Although, she’s seen enough midges for one lifetime.

“I managed to follow my race plan from Debbie (easy to BOO, steady to Glencoe, get

uncomfortable after that)” - Llinos

Great advice, ultra runners need to be comfortable with feeling uncomfortable.

Grant’s race came to an end almost as soon as it started … 

Grant was super excited to be pinning on a number after a fairly decent training block. Talking himself up to Paul on Training Peaks, he was taking the DOTH so seriously he even had a pre race haircut. He says the haircut didn't go well, perhaps an omen of things to come. I’d say he looks pretty dapper though, you can judge for yourself from the pic.

“It was a real highlight to see the joy Pyllon coach, John Connolly, took in Rachel's win.” - Grant

A proud moment for Iain

What worked well for you and what maybe didn’t work so well?

Coming in off the back of racing Cateran Trail 55, Iain focused on high mileage and practicing descending and tempo runs out on the trails. Maybe Iain’s secret weapon to his success is his dress rehearsal of the full route in abysmal conditions. 

Iain speaks of a standout training session that incorporated terrain and elevation specificity of the DOTH. Learning to press hard with fatigued legs takes practice, and practice is what Iain did. 

Speaking of specificity, Rachel recognises that the longer hill reps she churned out in training likely contributed to her ability to skip up the Devil’s Staircase during the race. Rachel’s ability to find additional gears mid-race to open up the gap between herself and Meryl and Morgan, who placed 2nd and 3rd, respectively, was fine-tuned in training by executing tempo sections during a long run. 

Llinos attributes her successful race to getting out for long, slow runs and building strength and speed through intervals and hill reps. 

Are you ready to hear about Grant yet?

What can we say about his race? I think It’s best I hand the mic to Grant himself and don’t change any of his words. I mean, who am I to edit the humour master? 

“What with my lack of recent racing I had decided to throw caution to the wind, ditch my usual conservative approach and go out with the lead group to see where it took me. This new confident approach lasted about 30 seconds up the first climb out of Tyndrum. A rush of cold sweats and a rapidly cramping stomach and I was immediately rejigging my plan to ‘where can I evacuate my bowels without 400 unfortunate people witnessing it?’.  

No obvious places revealed themselves so I adjusted my pace downwards and planned to hang on to Bridge of Orchy. I acknowledged the sympathetic smiles from the marshals at the road crossing as I waddled uncomfortably down the hill to the portaloos. My relief was matched by the disappointment of hearing almost the entire race field go past me as I sat on the portaloo regretting the previous night's meal choice.

I know this is a safe space to share this level of detail. Runners have all been there. I exited the portaloos and immediately returned realising this incident wasn't quite over. But clearly my race was - certainly in terms of a competitive run. I could shuffle my way uncomfortably to Fort William if I had to. But truth be told I was happy to hand in my dibber and keep my shorts clean for another day. 

Thanks to two members of the Pyllon family for saving my day. John Connolly scooped me up and graciously chauffeured me to Fort William, stopping off along the way to support the other Pyllon runners.”

Iain embraces the quad busting descent into Kinlochleven

How were you kitted out?

There was a mixed bag of kit on the course, which is exactly what we would expect, given how individual we all are. 

Our athlete’s feet were decked out in Hoka Tecton X, La Sportiva Jackal II Boa, and Inov8 Trailfly G280.

Some top advice from our athletes is to eat every half hour or 45 minutes. If you are worried you may forget, set an alarm reminder to remind you. Nutrition can really make or break your race. 

We don’t know what Grant was wearing for his 11k, but thanks to the generosity of Kenny Mcmanus, he had a stash of dry clothes to keep him warm in the aftermath of his, erm, incident. 

The moral of the story - don’t forget a warm clothes contingency plan, boys and girls! 

What advice do you have for others looking to do the Devil of the Highlands Race? 

First things first, don’t be like Grant. Make sure you plan your pre-race meals carefully! 

After that, the advice is fairly unanimous: get out on the trails for training and recce the route if possible so your body is familiar with the ascent and descent profile.

Rachel tells us there is a bus from Fort William to Glencoe, which you must book in advance. There’s also a train from Rannoch Station to Bridge of Orchy if you fancy adding some bog sections that aren’t in the race route. I mean, who would ever turn down bog?

These public transport options should help you figure out logistics for a recce. 

Both Rannoch Moor and Lairigmor are long, tough sections. If you like listening to music or podcasts during a run, this is where your headphones may come in handy. 

Find your inspiration and harness it

We are each unique beings, so it stands to reason that our sources of inspiration vary. 

Often, we seek inspiration in places of resonance and relatability. At the moment, new mum Rachel is inspired by other women who have recently had babies. Watching their return to running long distances gives Rachel the confidence that she will also return to full fitness. Hopefully, her confidence will have soared with this stunning performance at DOTH in the bank. 

Llinos wants to be a shining example to her kids as she sets herself up as a muse for them and showcases the importance of leading a healthy, active, and adventurous lifestyle. 

As for Iain, the support from his family helps get him out the door in the first place, and watching everyone within the Scottish ultra scene doing epic things and smashing their own goals keeps him out there striving to be better himself.

Rachel’s look of disbelief for a race well won

Thanks to Rachel, Llinos, Grant, and Iain for sharing their experiences with us. A special mention to Grant for using his misfortune as a giggle opportunity, let’s hope you don’t need to befriend the portaloos at the Ochils 50 miler. 

Another thanks goes to Graham Milne and Alan Brown for some of the images included. 

You can see the results of the 2023 Devil of the Highlands here. Entry is not yet open for 2024; keep an eye on the website for more details. 

Thank you for reading. We have a team of experienced and enthusiastic coaches waiting to help you on your ultra journey. Contact us to find out more. 

How To Prepare for, and Execute, a Successful Lakeland Race

by Ali Hall

Whether you have your sights on the 50-mile or the 100-mile race, the Montane Lakeland Races are not for the faint-hearted. With a notoriously high dropout rate (up to 50%), Lakeland is not just a test of physical strength and fitness but also of mental fortitude and the ability to endure the pain cave. 

With close to 2,500 racers congregating around the festival-like hub in Coniston, it’s hard to believe that the debut race, 16 years ago, featured a lonely 60 runners. The success and growth of this race is testimony to the exceptional organisation and fun, festival-style vibe. 

Six Pyllon athletes started Lakeland, and six Pyllon athletes finished, all with smiles on their faces, memories in their souls, and stories on their tongues. 

Let’s take a quick sneak peek at what they have to say.

Lakeland flag

Introducing the Pyllon athletes at Lakeland 2023

Gillian McGale

Gillian started running in 2012, infact, she can remember the exact date! Motivated to make a difference in society following the loss of her first husband to suicide, a decade earlier, Gillian found solace in raising money for SAMH through her early running endeavours. Her plan to store her trainers back in the cupboard never quite happened. 

Having completed WHWR in 2022 Gillian is no stranger to putting in the graft. She is as planned and prepared as they come, and that may be her trump card; you know what they say: “fail to prepare, prepare to fail,” and let’s be honest, Gillian is absolutely no failure!

Gillian taking a moments comtemplation

Chiara Franzosi 

Chiara started running as a means to connect with nature and find a moment's peace before commuting to her job in Milan. Upon making the courageous move to Edinburgh eight years ago, knowing no one and with little grasp of English, she found a social connection through running. As the running distances increased, so did Chiara’s passion for the running scene, and she built her life around running and the outdoors.

Chiara is no stranger to a race podium, although of late, she finds herself drawn to personal adventures in the Scottish mountains, accompanied by her K9 soulmate, Miles, and good friends. 

“Running takes me to incredible places and introduces me to inspiring people.” - Chiara

Ross Beveridge 

Ross started running 11 years ago while on his honeymoon. His wife jokes that he’s been running away ever since they got married! In reference to his running habit.

Ross combines his love of dogs and the outdoors in his dog walking business in East Lothian. To Ross, running means freedom. It makes him more relaxed and able to deal with the stresses of everyday life. He completed Lakeland 50 in 2021 and was all set to tackle the 100 in 2022 but the small matter of foot break two weeks before race day put an end to that. So this year was a long time coming for Ross.

“There’s rarely a day that passes that I’m not doing it, thinking about it, talking about it, reading about it or watching it.”  - Ross

Ally Kerr

If you followed our WHWR stories, you might remember Ally as “tall and bald with sparrow legs” - his wife's and friends’ words, not mine. Quietly determined, focused, and with a dry wit, Ally didn’t have massive expectations of his performance at Lakeland, given he was coming into the race on WHWR legs. Sometimes low expectations yield epic results. 

As someone who has endured uncertainty through a significant career change, Ally embraces new challenges. A 2017 completion of the Mourne Marathon led him to stumble upon the Highland Fling, and that was it, hooked. As it is for many of us, Ally describes running as his happy place.

 “I can feel a sense of connection with the environment when out on the trails. Running is definitely when I am most present and I enjoy the meditative aspect a long run can bring.” - Ally

Lynsey Parker

Lynsey has now been running for more than half her life. Starting on the road with the usual 10ks, she has built her distance and passion up to completing the WHWR and other challenging ultras. The world of ultras has shown Lynsey that anything is possible. Although perhaps the opposite of Gillian, Lynsey describes her race strategy as “winging it” and seeks a little more order for the future. But hey, if it ain’t broke, why fix it?

Lynsey balances a stressful job as a social worker with raising her children and still finds time and space to train for ultras. Those who have met Lynsey can feel the passion for running emanating from her. When asked why she runs, Lynsey gave an answer that many will resonate with. 

“Running makes me feel alive, not merely existing.” - Lynsey

Stuart looking fresh after 100 miles

A shout out to Pyllon athlete Stuart McNeish, who claimed his buckle for completing Lakeland 100 and wanted to share his experiences, but life took over, and time escaped him.

How did Lakeland go for our athletes?

Gillian’s meticulous organisation paid off. Not only did she recce the full route in advance, but she had a card of her timings, and arriving at each checkpoint ahead of time kept her calm and motivated to press on. Gripping onto each pole, she put her head down and trudged up every hill threatening to steal her mojo. Gillian ate Lakeland up for breakfast. 

Lakeland winner 2014 Debbie Martin-Consani is Gillian’s coach. In tough times, Gillian’s go-to pep talk to herself is ‘What would Debbie do?’”

Finishing an incredible 45 minutes ahead of her best predicted time, Gillian is still riding the waves of Lakeland.

 “I think everyone should get to Coniston once in their running ‘careers!” - Gillian

Chiara on cruise control

Chiara has been battling a hip issue for the last few months. With this spanner in the works, she was forced to reassess her goals for Lakeland and accept that her perception of a perfectly executed race would look very different from what she could achieve had she been fighting fit. 

Struggling with pain and discomfort in the first half, she was close to dropping out, but realising she would be cold and miserable sitting in her tent, she opted to be cold and miserable on the move. Once this decision was made, her acceptance of the circumstances pulled her out of her misery, and her discomfort subsided.

Chiara powered up the hills and graciously accepted runners overtaking her on the downs. Time and position were irrelevant for Chiara; her finish was exceptional. 

 “A test of attrition and resilience, 100% worth it despite the ups and downs in training, proud to have finished strong.” - Chiara

Ross experienced the opposite of Chiara. He ran a textbook race for his first 60 miles, and then the wheels came off when the tendons in his foot wreaked havoc, causing him to walk it in for the remainder of the race. 

His disappointment of being a DNS the previous year propelled him forward despite the painful setback. Control the controllables is something we talk regularly about here at Pyllon Ultra, and Ross did just that. He relaxed into his circumstances, reset his goals, and set himself on a mission to chase cut-off times at each checkpoint. 

Ross tells us that he isn’t the strongest or quickest of runners, but he has a mental fortitude to rival any athlete. For 19 hours, Ross gutted it out. His determination and courage are his secret weapons.

Ross in his happy place

Having completed Lakeland 50 twice already, Ally was going into his race with the advantage of experience but the disadvantage of WHWR legs. That said, following an efficient and effective recovery period, he was quietly excited at what he might achieve. 

Despite some stomach issues and an inability to take in nutrition from mile 33, Ally found himself further along the course at corresponding times than his previous best year, delaying the need for his head torch and giving him a huge motivational boost. In his final descent into Coniston, he revved up the turbo and allowed his strengths to propel him toward the finish. He flew down the hill, overtaking many runners who overtook him on the way up. 

Ally claimed a significant PB of 2 hours and 26 minutes!

Lynsey got her place for Lakeland through the second release of places which incurred a small charity donation. She considers this the best £100 she’s spent! She was prepared for the challenge physically and mentally and still reiterated that this was not a normal 50-mile race. 

Breaking the route down to checkpoints pulled Lynsey along. The regular checkpoints throughout the race gave Lynsey a morale boost along the way, and despite struggling with food, she managed to devour a quarter of a toastie while climbing out of one checkpoint. A heads up about checkpoints and hills.

Seeing friends, old and new, pop up at various points of the race helped carry her along; although it took her a while to realise it was her boyfriend who was running with her at the end, she thought some random was behind her.

A heads up about checkpoints and hills…

“Whenever there’s a checkpoint, be prepared for a climb” - Lynsey

What tips do our athletes have for training and preparation?

It will come as no surprise that getting out in the hills is an essential part of training in preparation for Lakeland. All the athletes speak of the importance of this. 

But sometimes, our best-made plans need to be tweaked and adapted depending on the limitations of our bodies or available time. Chiara was forced to switch out speed sessions in favour of mountain walking, which she found helped settle her aggravated hip.

Doing what we can, when we can, and being as consistent and honest with ourselves as possible is essential in optimising our training and maximising progress. 

Ross was limited by the lack of hills in his training sphere, but he more than made up for this by focusing on gaining fitness, executing long hard tempo sessions, and turning his Training Peaks green. 

The kit list for Lakeland is fairly extensive, meaning your pack may be heavier than you are used to. Lynsey suggests getting out for several long runs with your full kit, including poles.

“Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.” - Lynsey

Lakeland specific kit

Love or loathe them, the benefit of using running poles is tangible; with an elevation of 6300m and 3100m, respectively, for the 100-mile and 50-mile routes, running poles will take the impact off your legs. Just remember to practice with them in advance. 

The weather in the lakes is notoriously unpredictable and changeable; expect it to be wet. Montane jackets of various models were given a special mention by our athletes. 

Footwear that is comfortable enough to endure the distance and robust enough to tackle the terrain is another must. Personal preference comes into play here. 

The Lakeland organisers put on epic aid stations equipped with a mouth-watering spread. From cheese toasties to quiche, athletes don’t go hungry. 

Our athletes carried their own choice of gels and hydration with active root, chia charge, and maurten gels being given a special shout-out. Oh, and not to mention crustless jam sandwiches (apparently, crustless bread is 90p cheaper - thanks for the tip Gillian).

Buckle smiles from Lynsey

What inspires our athletes?

Sometimes it isn’t specific people who inspire us; rather, it is the spark within the core of many people. 

Chiara talks openly about her battle with comparison and the detrimental effect this can have on her mental health. She has learned to be inspired by the passion within individuals instead of specific race times or positions. 

Similarly, Ally says that all runners inspire him - just seeing the variety and diversity of runners out there, pushing themselves to better themselves. Ally gives a special mention to Parkrun for exemplifying this. 

Lynsey agrees and suggests that anyone getting out and pushing themselves beyond their perceived limitations inspires her. We are all on individual journeys, and each and every one of us is doing remarkable things.

Ally flying his way to an enormous PB

Advice fresh from the course

Our athletes are unanimous in their advice to anyone wanting to do either of the Lakeland races -  recceing the route is the number one necessity, especially since the races are unmarked. 

If you get a place in 2024, be reassured that Lakeland puts on formal recce weekends. Even if you have knowledge of the route, it is still advisable to have access to a GPX file of the route, especially for those tricky night time sections. 

Second to route recceing comes the need for a robust waterproof jacket and a tenacious attitude. You will be at war with the elements and your mind! A decent jacket may alleviate the suffering, even just a small amount. 

For those looking to tackle Lakeland 50, Gillians says:

“You have to believe that it is achievable and keep moving forward with purpose.”

If you have your sights on Lakeland 100, Ross says:

 “The 100 course isn’t just about being physically able to cover the distance. There’s a lot of emphasis on being in the right headspace for it and being able to just stay in the moment. You need to really want to finish. You have the added mental test of the 50 mile runners chasing you down and passing you in the second half of the race so you need to stay in your own lane and not let that get you down.”

A huge well done to all the athletes braving Lakeland this year and the best of luck to everyone in future Lakeland races. 

We’ll leave you with the inspiring words running legend Adrian Stott from Runners Are Smilers gifted to Gillian.

“If you want something, you’ll find a way.”

For anyone inspired to try their legs at Lakeland next year, the ballot opens on 1st September, you can find out more about the entry criteria here. Good luck! 

Learn more about the history of Montane Lakeland 50 & 100 here. 

The official Lakeland images have been used with the kind permission of Marc from Lakeland.

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