Hello, and welcome to the saga that is/was 26 in 26. A personal challenge which was originally an attempt to run 24 marathons, across 24 months (the goalposts moved). The motivations and reasons for which I’ll detail below via various ‘run’ reports. There were two main aims, firstly just to see if it was something I could achieve and if it could help me return to/maintain a level of fitness I feel happiest at. The other aim was knowing that completing each run/month it ensured some funds were sent the way of a great cause.
As the challenge hopefully nears completion I’ve set up a justgiving page to try and fundraise for two great causes. Firstly Children with Cancer which has been the recipient of monthly donations for the two years of the challenge. The second cause is I to hope to contribute funds (£750 - £900) towards helping to secure an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for Stirling junior parkrun. Whilst undertaking this challenge I became one of Stirling junior parkrun’s Co-Event Director’s.
Each event is being encouraged to have their own AED, so as not to rely upon AED’s located elsewhere (as we currently do). Whilst a junior event is comparatively lower risk than the larger 5k events, as an event we are hoping to grow the number of participants and as a result their family/supporters and entourages that attend the park each Sunday morning. An AED is a device I’d rather know we have to hand and possess the ability to use, but also very much in the hope that we never have to.
The fundraising page is: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/26in26
If you’d like to donate and support, thank you.
You can follow along: Strava: Gallus ness & Twitter: @Gallusness
Preamble
In late Spring 2020 the world was still in the relatively early stages of experiencing the global pandemic of Covid-19. Restrictions had begun to ease but we’d experienced various lockdowns (and their resulting effects). RatRace announced a ‘Born to Rune’ virtual challenge of aiming to complete 24 marathons across 24 months. Using the viking alphabet as inspiration - handily having 24 characters. The rules were pretty simple, during the first week of each month, beginning in September 2020 you would have to complete 26.2 miles. The miles could be accumulated across the week, though in the spirit of the challenge I decided to attempt 24 unique marathons. Once complete you logged the efforts with RatRace for verification, earned a sustainable medal, but most importantly helping to send some funds the way of Children with Cancer UK. A great motivator to have each and every month as it turned out…
Born to Rune I
(The one where it all began)
This first run saw me part inspired in wanting to get back to being a better version of myself, for someone else. I found myself 646 days into a streak of having completed (at least) 5k a day via running, jogging or walking and my body was feeling it. Remember setting off relatively early doors to try and beat the heat. Combined two routes I’d run previously knowing each was a half marathon or thereabouts. A slightly extended loop out towards and over the Kincardine bridge before returning over the Clackmannanshire bridge. My main recollection is during the latter ‘half’ the Hillfoot’s road felt even more of a slog than it normally can do. In fairness an extra 13 miles on top of what it usually takes to get there though. It was pretty uneventful and yet I was underway, one down, twenty three to go.
Route: A figure of 8 starting with a loop out to the Kincardine & Clackmannanshire bridges before returning to complete the Alloa half marathon course.
Distance: 27.7 miles
Elevation: 861ft
Calories: 5,269
Conditions: Cloudy, 9°C. Feels like 9°C. Humidity 99%. Wind 2.2mi/h from NW.
Key Track: No Good (Start The Dance) – The Prodigy
Rune: Fehu (Wealth)
Born to Rune II
(The Lon’done’ one)
The second event saw me commiserating my 9th successive ballot rejection for the London marathon by taking part in their inaugural London ‘virtual’ marathon. I decided to run this on the most recent iteration of the Stirling marathon course. This (thankfully) had reduced the town laps and underpass sections as encountered for it’s own respective inaugural. In pretty manky conditions I arrived at King’s park and was on my way just after 6am. As with the previous month the thought was to get out early and to hopefully encounter quieter roads. This proved to be a mixed bag of experiences as probably set off an hour too early to get the best light. The stretch leaving Stirling out past Blairdrummond safari park was pretty fraught at times. Even wearing hi-viz and a head torch that’s not a particular stretch of road where cars, vans or lorries abide by the speed limit.
Another notable trait of this run was in doing the virtual ‘London’ event I had to use their app to record my effort. It also offered a soundtrack of Paula Radcliffe & Steve Cram dropping in each mile with some handy coaching and motivation. Paula early doors reminded me to stay calm, relaxed and to set off easy. The very next second in those early hours Kernkraft 400 dropped. Paula’s advice may not have been heeded.
One main revision to the marathon route since its launch has been to ensure you actually run past Andy Murray’s gold postbox. Felt okay as I passed this a the halfway point. From there I took in what was to become my first carse loop before heading up and through the University of Stirling campus. A few miles beyond this the route becomes a bit of a dirge and as I headed back to cross the Forth and head to town I could feel myself waning. As I slowed to a walk a couple of miles from home I realised a friend had passed me, saw me toiling and parked up. She and her young son came to cheer me on for a bit and whilst may not seem like a massive gesture, meant a lot. Didn’t immediately get my legs going, but they did break back into a jog eventually. Having received my pep talk on the mile every mile the final message seemed to take forever to arrive. Then dawned on me, the final message arrives not at 26, but at 26.2 miles. Each and every marathon, that 0.2 at the end •shakes fist•. That’ll be a Lon’done’ marathon.
Route: Stirling marathon route doubling as ‘London’
Distance: 27 miles
Elevation: 857ft
Calories: 5,135
Conditions: Rainy, 13°C. Feels like 13°C. Humidity 89%. Wind 11.7mi/h from NE.
Key Track: Kernkraft 400 – Zombie Nation
Rune: Üruz (Strength)
Born to Rune III
(The one where the wheels fell off)
It was early November and we found ourselves having returned to another lockdown. Buoyed by a recent trip/escape to London spirits were good, but in reality physically and mentally I was toiling. The streak of (at least a) 5k a day was about to end after 709 days. I’d planned out a marathon distance loop that would take me most of the way around the wee county. Everything was going to plan, relatively slow and steady sticking to the cycle paths, super highways and backroads available. A little loop in Dollar saw me reaching half way.
On the climb out of Dollar something ‘went’. It was short, sharp and felt like a sniper had taken aim. Not good. Inevitably I was pretty much at the furthest point from home and reduced to a walk/limp. There was going to be no more running or even jogging. Mentally I was shot, whole mix of emotions and feelings. Frustration for not listening to my body with the streak. Anger at just being in a bit of a state generally. Disappointment at breaking down as relatively early into such a challenge and undertaking. Thoughts and mood best not repeated, but onwards I struggled. It wasn’t particularly pleasant, conditions were overcast and I knew it was just going to be a long old plod and time to get home. The route ahead involved taking some paths new to me to that headed towards and to skirt Gatmorn Dam. The paths looked great on google but in reality were pretty overgrown and it was probably for the best I’d been reduced to a walk.
This all unfolded the day before I turned 40. The circumstances meant I spent my 40th bed bound with no one to catch up with. Not really the way imagined I’d mark that milestone. Still, ended up reading a book cover to cover and justeat brought my dinner to me.
Route: Tour De Wee County
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 895ft
Calories: 5,003
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 2°C. Feels like 2°C. Humidity 97%. Wind 1.7 mi/h from NE.
Key Track: Rainy Night In Tallinn – Ludwig Goransson
Rune: Thurisaz (Giant)
Born to Rune IV
(The one where I walked)
Four months in and I’d hit a low. It was early December and since the injury picked up during marathon III I’d managed a whole four walk/runs for exercise. Conscious of having piled plenty timber back on. Knew I’d started the challenge for a reason(s), and needed to keep going. Decided to keep it local and do the local half route twice. Conditions were pretty cold and bleak. This route ensured at the half way point I’d arrive back at my car and had a quick change of gear into new dry and fresh hat, jacket and gloves. It was a loooooooong 7hrs and 17 minutes, but another one ticked off.
Route: Alloa half marathon route x2
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 824ft
Calories: 5,069
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 1°C. Feels like 1°C. Humidity 94%. Wind 2.4 mi/h from WNW.
Key Track: Warning Sign – Travis
Rune: Ansuz (Wisdom)
Born to Rune V
(The one where I started the comeback™)
2021 arrived and with it there was some recovery. Xmas and new year pounds had been piled on without the ‘usual’ weekly miles. Though my calf recovered, but other niggles developed likely due to overcompensating. By the time marathon five arrived I was back to at least being able to have a sustained jog once more. Setting out in trail shoes in snowy conditions the plan was to take it easy but to try and go for a jogged stint, before switching to a walk when had reached the limit without pushing it. Plan initially worked a treat and did a familiar ten mile loop before having a change of gear. The snow had given way to rain and I’d been soaked to the bone. I set out to walk the half marathon route once more with the ‘extra’ walk to/from this rounding the distance up to the full marathon. Took a rucksack with a change of shoes as had a feeling the snow wouldn’t be around too much longer. This proved a shrewd call as somewhere between Tillicoultry and Alva it was almost like nature flicked a switch. With that the snow was gone. Trails are pretty horrific to walk on on tarmac so with a swap to traditional road shoes and onwards I sauntered. May have also packed a pack of Fruit Salad chews, that was an absolute win.
Route: Ten mile loop and then the Alloa half marathon course
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 819ft
Calories: 5,000
Conditions: Rainy, O°C. Feels like -3°C. Humidity 100%. Wind 5.4mi/h from SSW.
Key Track: Your Love Alone Is Not Enough – Nina Solo Acoustic (Manic Street Preachers)
Rune: Raido (Journey)
Born to Rune VI
(The one where the comeback™ continued)
Memories and recollections of this one were a little foggy. Remembering back there was what felt like very slow recovery from the injury sustained in November. It felt much as the main strain/tear was healing I was invariably collecting all sorts of niggles and annoyances from more than likely over compensating. There hadn’t been so much actual running or walking taking place. I’d got back into a groove of zwifting the night/morning away as I set up a turbo in the studio. February would see me try to ‘complete’ zwift and so hundreds of miles were getting cranked out but with relatively little stress on the healing areas.
This marathon was effectively a reverse of the previous month where I instead opted to ‘run’ the local half marathon route once more. Feeling okay to continue I extended this on a few miles before finally feeling pretty burst. It was another quick pitstop for a gear change and I then set out to walk the remaining 10 miles. Wrapped up warm as this was a cold one. It was noted that the theme for this months medal/rune was ‘fire’ as well. Remember being thankful for fresh. warm gear and a pretty eclectic playlist. With that, a quarter of the way there.
Route: Alloa half marathon course and then a local ten mile loop.
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 975ft
Calories: 4,997
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 1°C. Feels like -5°C. Humidity 85%. Wind 14.7 mi/h from ENE.
Key Track: Hollow Talk – Choir Of Young Believers
Rune: Kaunaz (Fire)
Born to Rune VII
(The one I wasn’t look forward to reporting #1)
So… when I decided to start on this challenge I was aware I’d found myself in a shape/place wasn’t entirely happy with. I’d met someone that I was in the process of falling for and was acutely aware of feeling like I wasn’t really the ‘best’ version of myself. Alongside the challenge and the fundraising a huge motivator was hoping to return to a place of being fitter, stronger and happier. These motivations had meant the toils and struggles of injury and setbacks through the Winter had taken their toll. Shortly before starting out on this marathon my dreams ended. Physically just wasn’t eating or sleeping as the fluctuating emotions and turmoil of love and and wandering thoughts and imaginings did their thing.
Yet here was 26.2 miles that I hoped could offer a distraction. Fitness wise the zwifting had been helping and I’d trimmed up. Running was becoming easier and the injury felt like it was healing. After previous routes staying closer to home figured I could do with seeing some different paths. We were still in lockdown and so it was the first time in months that I had ventured the way of Stirling and King’s Park. Early on the run was good. Progress was steady and it was just so nice and refreshing to have a change of scenery. Approaching the halfway point recent events caught up with me. Required a stop into a supermarket to fuel. Some extra fluid and sugar taken onboard and I set off once more. The route continued through Bridge of Allan and then onwards through the University of Stirling campus. It was here I crumbled. Just ran out of gas. Just felt properly burst and running on fumes. My head was a bit of a mess and the memories from here are mush. I know this didn’t really go to plan and I was forced to make my way homewards with the addition of many an extra wee loop to ensure I completed the required distance.
Route: Out to Stirling through town, King’s Park and return via Bridge of Allan, University of Stirling and Hillfoots.
Distance: 26.3 miles
Elevation: 681ft
Calories: 4,999
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 1°C. Feels like -2°C. Humidity 85%. Wind 5.0 mi/h from SW.
Key Track: The Truth – Handsome Boy Modelling School
Rune: Gebö (Gift)
Born to Rune VIII
(The one I wasn’t look forward to reporting #2)
Last month had taken its toll and that was soon to be outdone. Circumstances had been fluctuating - because well, life… Found myself continuing to struggle but knew that finally the dreams and hopes I’d had were over. I chose this route - a tour of the Forth as to complete the loop would be to complete the marathon. Last months extra zigging and zagging probably lingered in my thoughts. Plan was to head out towards Kincardine, to cross the bridge and then head to Stirling via Airth and Fillin. A route through town before crossing Stirling bridge to then head homewards.
The conditions were clear and sunny, if not all that warm. Pleasant enough, though there was to be an unfortunate side effect to this run. The hill Dumyat that held some particular significance suddenly seemed to be a prominent landmark pretty much wherever I ended up on this route. It acted as a constant reminder to recent events, and generally the run was attempted whilst hurting, but hoping it would prove cathartic. Shortly after crossing the Kincardine bridge, Dolly shuffled on my playlist. I lost it, properly melted with emotions. Didn’t stop running, but I was experiencing a full on ugly cry. Tears were streaming and breathing became a struggle. Just buried myself deep, deep into continuing onwards. Fortunately wasn’t in a particularly busy bit of the world, but I was in a state. Think in that moment everything just got to me and yet here I was, legs just carrying me onwards.
Clearly managed to steel and collect myself as this ended up being the first marathon I’d ‘run’ in full in months. That said, the last few miles I was toiling, training runs had been increasing in distance as had the frequency, but the the last 10k left me feeling very, very leggy.
Route: Tour De Forth
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 450ft
Calories: 4,985
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, -0°C. Feels like -0°C. Humidity 98%. Wind 2.2 mi/h from WSW.
Key Track: I Will Always Love You – Dolly Parton
Rune: Wunjö (Joy)
Born to Rune IX
(The one where I ran to Glasgow)
Many moons ago I’d trained by getting a train to Edinburgh and running back along the canal to my car (or one of the stations along the way if I was toiling). I’d never run along the canal to Glasgow, so figured I’d give it a go. Left Larbert station early doors, all was going well, only couldn’t quite remember which road I was meant to be on whilst skirting an industrial estate and chose the wrong path… Nothing couldn’t fix but that was an extra mile added distance wise.
I joined the canal beside the Falkirk Wheel and headed South West towards Glasgow. The route was now predominantly flat and felt visually similar. The miles steadily passed without too much variety. Passed under the M80 and just continued. There were a couple of brief stops for feeling ‘under the weather’, but y’know, it happens. Fortunately had packed the necessary meds.
There was an unfortunate diversion in Kirkintilloch where the police had cordoned off a section of the canal as they were investigating an incident from the night before. I wasn’t particularly familiar with my surroundings but managed to find my way through town before rejoining the canal. From here the canal stayed relatively green and retained a countryside feel despite very much approaching the more urban Glasgow. Works on the Stockingfield junction meant some further alternate rerouting, but once again managed to rejoin the canal. From here it was into town passing Firhill home of the mighty Jags and also Speirs Wharf. Shortly after being in town proper. Treated myself to a glass bottle of ‘original’ Irn-Bru, sorted.
Route: Larbert train station to Glasgow Queen Street Station.
Distance: 27.5 miles
Elevation: 383ft
Calories: 5,200
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 3°C. Feels like 3°C. Humidity 93%. Wind 2.6 mi/h from NNE.
Key Track: You Can’t Always Get What You Want - The Rolling Stones
Rune: Hagalaz (Storm)
Born to Rune X
(The one with the golden postbox)
For the tenth marathon I decided to revisit the Stirling marathon route. Was curious to know if I’d been unduly harsh on it, and well… it’s just not for me. There’s many a great road and landmark that could be utilised but the route just feels like it misses many an opportunity to instead focus on creating the least disruption to local roads and communities. I understand that, but it’s a shame and feels like it just limits the event from becoming regarded as a proper ‘great’.
The run benefitted from being run at a time of year where there was more light. The early miles out and towards Doune weren’t as fraught or as stressful. Training was returning to feeling like having a groove. Distances and duration were growing outside of the monthly challenge. There was the obligatory stop for a pic at Andy Murray’s golden postbox.
The increasing temperature caught me slightly on the hop, just in terms of the amount of fluid I was carrying/consuming. Ended up gasping for the last few miles, but also knew that shops would soon be close to hand. Ten down, fourteen to go (at this time).
Route: Stirling marathon route.
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 383ft
Calories: 5,200
Conditions: Cloudy. 10°C. Feels like 10°C. Humiditv 93%. Wind. 9.7 mi/h from ENE.
Key Track: All That - Sparks
Rune: Naudiz (Hardship)
Born to Rune XI
(The one where I practiced running point to point)
Alongside the earlier mentioned motivations for the challenge I’d entered various events to help to train towards. The first of which was soon to arrive and would see me undertaking an ultramarathon for the first time in a few years. This month was treated as a dry run for the ultra the following month. With a full pack and all the equipment I’d be required to carry in a months time I got a train to Edinburgh one morning returning to Falkirk on foot.
A route that hadn’t run for a few years but essentially a flat, scenic path that runs alongside the Union canal. Leaving Edinburgh town and winding merrily (mostly) Westwards. Passing Ratho and Winchburgh before clocking a fair few miles before arriving towards Linlithgow and Polmont. On this run managing to sadly not be passed by Limmy near Polmont prison. It was a braw day and generally the canal path was a pretty busy old path. By the time I arrived into the Redding area of Falkirk I was pretty much done. A steady 29 miles had passed and felt ‘good’. Or I did once I’d popped into Tesco’s to get some fizzy juice and an ice lolly. Being realistic I knew there was inevitably going to be a considerable distance of the ultra walked. So from here to Falkirk High just enjoyed a more leisurely saunter in the sun. Knowing when I arrived at the Falkirk tunnel that the finish point lay pretty much on the other side felt like a pretty grand day out.
Route: Edinburgh Waverley station to Falkirk High station.
Distance: 32.5 miles
Elevation: 149ft
Calories: 7,871
Conditions: Cloudy, 14°C. Feels like 14°C. Humidity 88%. Wind 3.6mi/h from W.
Key Track: Yes Sir, I Can Boogie - Baccara
Rune: Isa (Ice)
Born to Rune XII
(The one where I ran from London to Canterbury)
For having started the year in all kinds of pieces I arrived at this event feeling as ready as I ever have done for a race. It was a strangely calming experience where just had to ensure didn’t inadvertently trip over any kerbs having arrived in London town. Training had unfolded over a long scorching Summer, as opposed to the typical ‘taps aff’ that usually occurs one random Wednesday in May. So rocked up to Southwark cathedral ready and primed for a very long day/night out in potentially excruciating and tropical southern temperatures… Only it was absolutely lashing it down.
The event got underway as we essentially traced the route of the Pilgrim’s way as best we might for 69 miles to Canterbury. Early doors passing many a London landmark whilst being beset with short but torrential downpours. Over the first 9 miles I think a new PB was set for I think 5 changes in/out of waterproofs. A half marathon in and it was a brief pitstop to refill and onwards. The scenery now changing to more small town and suburbs than big city. A 24hr playlist (how long had to complete the event) was in play and ‘Go Your Own Way’ dropped. The track holds some significance, but it’s also one that I flashback to the montage in Forrest Gump. Hoping that it manages to drop at a suitably scenic moment for a memory during an event. It dropped as I was trying to cross a road on Bexleyheath High Street, not sure that was what I’d hoped for.
The route took us through scrapyards, along the coast, past many a castle and church and spoiled us with variety. Also, especially for the distance on the whole pretty gloriously flat and easy going. A main inland climb/descent as you leave Gravesend to head over to Rochester main memory of any proper climb. The pitstop in Rochester marking the half way point. It was quite bizarre in that the training plan had clearly worked as I found myself 35 miles in and felt fresh. This was a little unnerving, but equally felt immense knowing the metaphorical (and literal) distance travelled to get here.
The route got more rural still and there were sections through vast hay fields and orchards that were pretty stunning. Still just kept heading onwards, as the light began to fade this Saturday evening I made my way into Faversham and the final pitstop. 60 miles had pretty much all been run. A last chance to fuel proper and dunno, just this break of rhythm seemed to hit me. As I was about to leave a fellow Scottish runner was having some problems. She’d lost some of her required Hi-Viz and would only be allowed to continue if she did so in my company. I welcomed this but explained that I’d need to initially walk as just needed to get out of a bad patch.
It would prove to be a walk from here to the finish as sadly she took quite poorly. With a mix of some breaks, encouragement and being a bit stubborn helped ensure she finished. During a previous ultra I had someone help me in just such a fashion, so figured this was karma. Reflecting back touch gutted as felt like I could/would have run again. If I’d have done so would have made it into Canterbury in time for some chips’n’cheese. It wasn’t to be, but happier still she was able to complete the event and her company really helped over the final miles.
This was the second furthest I’d ever gone during a race/event and was a significant improvement time wise. Felt like a bit of a moment that was able to channel all the thoughts, training and emotions into such an effort. Checked into the hotel, attempted to pass out before the bus back to London in the morning (didn’t fancy doing the return on foot). Could I get any sleep? Hells no, just lay in bed absolutely firing of mind and body. Shuffled to the bus in the morning. Managed to grab 40 minutes sleep for the first time in 29 hours and 70+ miles later. Even managed to grab a pint and some bau buns before returning home.
Oh, oh, I was half way there…
Route: Southwark Cathedral to Canterbury Cathedral following the Pilgrim’s Way.
Distance: 68.3 miles
Elevation: 3,154ft
Calories: 12,920
Conditions: Rainv. 14°C. Feels like 14°C. Humiditv 88%. Wind 9,4mi/h from SSW.
Key Track: Go Your Own Way - Fleetwood Mac
Rune: Jera (Harvest)
Born to Rune XIII
(The one where something went ping)
This month had found me generally recuperating from the efforts of the month before. This was my longest run since, and I set off in pleasant conditions. Had decided to revisit an earlier route with some minor alterations from an earlier B2R effort. There wasn’t really much to tell, had my tunes on and progress was steady if not spectacular. It was proving to be a pretty unremarkable effort and then… ping.
As I was slowing on a slight descent towards Stirling train station something ‘went’. Pretty frustrating but time wasn’t really a factor and I was reduced to a leisurely stroll home. The intended route was a little curtailed as I dropped my backpack/water bottles off. Headed out for a final couple of miles to hit 26 miles. Managed these at a slightly quicker pace but it was clear I’d probably have to take it easy for a few days.
Route: Loop out to Bridge of Allan via Menstrie, the uni and round Stirling before heading home.
Distance: 26.3 miles
Elevation: 460ft
Calories: 4,924
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 15°C. Feels like 15°C. Humidity 75%. Wind 2.0 mi/h from E.
Key Track: I See A Darkness - Bonnie Prince Billy
Rune: Īwaz (Tree of life)
Born to Rune XIV
(The Lon’done in Berlin one)
Alternatively - the one where strava failed me. Though… thankfully was tracking it as my virtual London marathon on their app. This month found me having entered the London marathon and once again failing to get a place through the ballot for a ninth consecutive year. Instead of a weekend in London I found myself contemplating and undertaking a mini Euro trip for some parkrun tourism. The trip started with a parkrun in the Netherlands at Zuiderpark. This helped me complete the alphabet challenge as I finally bagged an event beginning with Z. Gave this effort a right go on what was the quickest parkrun course of any yet encountered. Turned out to be my quickest 5k completed in 2021.
After the parkrun, headed back to the hotel to shower and to jump on a train to Hannover. The reason for this was the Sunday was German unity day and the opportunity for a ‘bonus’ parkrun. Here I completed the stunning Georgengarten event. Once more trying to give it some but clearly feeling the effects of yesterday’s intensity. Back to the hotel to shower and then jump on a train bound for Berlin. The train was an hour late which wasn’t a disaster but had a knock on effect for the days timings. Arriving into Berlin I headed for my Space Pod hostel (as you do) to check-in, drop my bags off and gear up for the marathon. The walk from the station to the hostel and then back to the marathon start just beyond the Brandenburg Gate was around four miles. Adding to the 3 miles at parkrun and about the same again walking in Hannover.
A little after 3 o’clock in a humid 22°c conditions I started off on my virtual ‘London’ marathon on the live and open streets of Berlin. I add a couple of apps helping me out. Strava failing, the London marathon app behaving (thankfully) and also RunGo was giving me audio prompts for which roads and turns to follow. I was definitely feeling a little leggy but I was determined to go off easy and to try and stay steady. I was loving the views and just taking in more of the city. The streets tended to be more ‘main’ than not so navigation tended to make sense. There were a few short-lived wrong turns but that’s only as ‘turn right at the roundabout’ when there were multiple rights was a bit unclear. Highlights included passing the on-going party outside Tresor that was in full flow. Also the nearby Kit-Kat club that had hosted me for an all nighter the previous year before taking in Hasenheide parkrun for unity day.
Not too long after this, probably about nine miles in I had my first forced pause. I was ridiculously dehydrated and of all places stopped into McD’s for a XL Sprite and a McFlurry - this challenge was meant to be fun, right? Once consumed it was onwards once more. It had been sweltering and guess across the day and probably the day before just hadn’t taken on enough fluid. Lesson learned after the first stop I now went into a garage and picked up some juice and water to keep me going for a while. This all on top of the supplies I’d taken out with me.
There was a glorious hour where the temperature dropped and it was just a gorgeous still evening and conditions. The light quickly fading at this point. I was just really enjoying the sights and the mix of architecture and street art as you go. Was also thankful for the city quietening of a Sunday eve as the continual stop/start of crossing busy roads was a real pain for momentum.
As the route started back in the direction of central Berlin I had a fair few miles of walking. It was fine, had nowhere to be and attentions were definitely turning to where I’d soon be carbing up. There was one pretty brutal moment I hadn’t quiet thought through. With 1.5 miles to go I had to run past my hostel. This was hard going at this hour and with all the miles clocked. But alas the marathon distance needed completing and wanted to say that I’d run Berlin (unofficially). So I trudged onwards and was soon passing under the Brandenburg Gate for the third time that day. After collecting food and more juice headed back to the hostel and worked out that had been pretty much 40 miles through the legs that day in the heat. Us Scots aren’t used to tropical conditions in October (some would say at all).
Route: Berlin marathon route on open roads.
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: ?ft
Calories: ?
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 22°C. Felt el scorchio.
Key Track: 99 Luftbaloons - Nina & Hanna’s Theme - The Chemical Brothers
Rune: Peoro (Dance)
Born to Rune XV
(The tour de Forth one)
It was a brisk Monday morn in November and I set out on the latest instalment. I’d decided to revisit a slightly refined ‘round the Forth’ route. This sees me leaving Clackmannanshire to then ever so briefly visit Fife before crossing the Kincardine Bridge to head through Airth, Fallin towards Stirling. This time crossing the bridge over to Cambuskenneth before retracing familiar paths home.
The most notable bit of news was that off the back of training for the Canterbury trails I wanted to try and retain that level of fitness. I wasn’t sure how may be best to do that but I discovered and entered the Glenmore24. A 24hr race and challenge held just outside Aviemore in September 2022. This gave me a new focus and would happen the month following the (hopeful) completion of the challenge.
Route: Round the Forth.
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 453ft
Calories: 4,892
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 6°C. Feels like 4°C. Humidity 93%. Wind 6.2 mi/h from WSW.
Key Track: Final Ascent - Hans Zimmer
Rune: Algiz (Protection)
Born to Rune XVI
(The one after the day in the Toon)
Life and times had been busy and I was fast running out days as the 7th (and final opportunity) to log a marathon rolled round. I found myself sitting in a café post junior parkrun volunteering in beautiful conditions. Whilst also suffering the effects of having been to Newcastle to watch the football and having enjoyed a few drinks the day before. My plan was to head out after work on the Monday evening and to just get it done…
Only, the forecast wasn’t looking too great. So I headed home and geared up to head out mid Sunday afternoon instead. It was a shift, took it understandably pretty easy due to circumstances but the weather made it bearable (as good as it gets for this time of year). I was definitely feeling the effects of having seen and supported Newcastle to their first won of the season the day before. Half way round there was a pitstop to get some juice and a doughnut to keep me going. The pace slowed, it was starting to get dark and a fair chill was arriving. Plodded on to get it done. The day at work that followed ended up being horrific and the weather forecast was ridiculously worse than predicted. Although it hadn’t been pleasant, I’d also dodged a bullet.
Route: A loop out to Bannockburn and Stirling attempting to cover the required miles before heading homewards.
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 781ft
Calories: 4,464
Conditions: Clear, 3°C. Feels like 1°C. Humidity 89%. Wind 4.7mi/h from NW.
Key Track: Gimme Shelter - The Rolling Stones
Rune: Söwilö (Sun)
Born to Rune XVII
(The one where I ran a marathon within a mile of home)
To begin 2022 I decided to attempt a slightly more random marathon. There’s a local park that’s not particularly big but you can run a route round the perimeter that’s predominantly on grass/trail. The weather and forecast was suitably manky and reflective of being a few days into a new year.
What followed was an absolute slog. It’s not a particularly exciting park or loop. There’s a hill in one corner which I chose to run with the steeper climb and then a more gradual descent. Seemed to be a pretty sensible choice. It was cold and wet. Like properly COLD. I’d started out about 06:30 and pre sunrise it was pretty brutal. In fact, had to break off from the laps before the half way point to go home to get some fresh gear on. The repetition was likely as boring as you may imagine, but the novelty of being as close to home made it worth it for a one off. 36 laps was a pure trudgefest and my legs felt absolutely rinsed in the days that followed. The trail shoes did their thing though as the claggy park turf made itself known.
Route: 36 laps of West End park (one wee detour home).
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 1,398ft
Calories: 4,941
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 2°C. Feels like -1°C. Humidity 76%. Wind 8.3 mi/h from WNW.
Key Track: Thunder On The Mountain - Wanda Jackson
Rune: Tiwaz (God)
Born to Rune XVIII
(The could I do a parkrun during a marathon? one)
A bit like B2R XVI life and times meant the plan of when to run got juggled. I’d hoped to do this on the Saturday morning to and to take in the University of Stirling parkrun as a ‘live’ event. Only… that didn’t happen. So a couple of days later I found myself with that idea in mind and decided to set out and complete the route I would have to see how it felt. It went fairly well. It’s about 10k to reach the University, arrived and just set off for the two and a bit laps of the loch that would equate to freedom running the course. It was just a pretty chill and still day generally and just kept plodding.
Felt relatively good before starting to flag a little in Alva. In what was starting to become a more customary stop nipped into Bayne’s for a caramel twist and a bottle of full fat ginge (Irn-Bru). This helped the slight flagging and I was back on my way once more. As started to head back towards Alloa realised I’d have to make it a slightly more scenic way home to complete the miles. It was slightly annoying as the weather began to turn. As I returned through the wetlands the rain began to absolutely lash down, it was pretty good motivation to keep going.
Route: To University of Stirling parkrun and then a loop of Hillfoots before heading home.
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 879ft
Calories: 4,745
Conditions: Cloudy, 2°C. Feels like -1°C. Humidity 95%. Wind 8.4mi/h from SSW.
Key Track: I’ve Got My Mind Set On You - James Ray
Rune: Berkano (Birch
Born to Rune XIX
(The return to Glasvegas one)
Decided to have a return to Glasvegas this month. Memories of the first attempt were of the route being a bit less fun and scenic than if I was leaving Edinburgh for Falkirk. Glad to have given it another go as enjoyed it a lot more. Probably set off at a slightly too conservative pace as but I stayed steady. Nothing really too much of note to say, I just kept on trucking. It was nice to not have a police crime scene enforced diversion in Kirkintilloch. Once more rewarded myself with a glass bottle of ‘original’ Irn-Bru upon arrival and completion of another marathon.
Route: Larbert train station to Glasgow Queen Street Station.
Distance: 26.6 miles
Elevation: 312ft
Calories: 4,917
Conditions: Cloudy, 6°C. Feels like 4°C. Humidity 83%. Wind 5.9mi/h from ESE.
Key Track: We Have All The Time In The World - Louis Armstrong
Rune: Ehwaz (Horse)
Born to Rune XX
(The one where I tried to run the London marathon route)
A trip for work took me darn sarth to that there London town. Break of dawn flights deposited me down early doors. So I headed for my hotel to deposit my bags and then took the DLR out to Greenwich to walk up to Blackheath where I ran my first ever (and still my quickest) marathon in 2002. For context, that was also the first time Paula Radcliffe would ever tackle the distance.
For an April day it was COLD. Happy to think of myself as a relatively hardy Scot but I was faced with a bracing wind. I’d also packed limited gear imagining slightly more tropical April conditions than back home. Since that initial London marathon I’d entered a few more times and never received a place via the ballot. For the last ten years I’ve applied with no joy, kind of used to it but the 10th rejection last year was a pretty tough one to take. Anyways, I figured I’d just as well have a go at the route again on my terms as not wising to bequeath my entry fee hadn’t been doing me many favours.
It was funny being back up on Blackheath as I’d crossed here as part of the Pilgrim’s Way during the Canterbury Trails for B2R XII. A mixture of memory and the RunGo app prompting me with directions aided my retracing the route. Enjoyed the change of scenery and seeing the course in quite different conditions from during the actual event. The challenge of the open roads meant some additional patience, but all good.
The route on the whole was pretty chilled until reached the halfway point and crossing Tower bridge where encountered many a tourist, but things then calmed again as I headed off towards the Isle of dogs. A wee break was taken here for a juice and some jelly babies. Starting back up went to navigate Canary Wharf and the wheels fell off. For once not entirely on me, just with Canary Wharf all looking a bit samey and the height of the buildings playing havoc with RunGo. Realised I’d gone a fair bit off track and that time was passing. With me being down to see a show I’d done the design for later that evening knew I couldn’t unduly hang about. So instead of a traditional finish along the banks of the Thames towards Big Ben, Birdcage walk, The Mall and Buckingham Palace I instead winged my way back towards Shoreditch. A shower, some pints and bau buns awaited me.
Route: The London marathon route until Canary Wharf, then I freestyled…
Distance: 26.3 miles
Elevation: 764ft
Calories: 4,631
Conditions: Partly Cloudy, 6°C. Feels like 1°C. Humidity 55%. Wind 16.6 mi /h from NNE.
Key Track: White Riot - The Clash
Rune: Mannaz (Man)
Born to Rune XXI
(The Leven Loch Leven one)
For the start of May I headed out early doors to take in a couple of laps of Loch Leven. Frustratingly a full lap clocks just short of a half marathon so there’s an extra 0.75 or so that needs to be made up. Do love a lap of here and it had been a regular training feature over the years. To make up the extra distance I dodged off to take in one lap of the Loch Leven parkrun route during my first lap. I’d set off clockwise and this allowed me to run the parkrun lap back to front for some additional variety.
It was (as ever) just a pretty chilled and quiet part of the world. Passed mainly dog walkers and only an occasional cyclist and fellow runner/walker. The section of the lap from South through to West (clockwise) can sometimes feel a bit of a dirge in comparison to the rest of the lap. So I headed off clockwise before the second lap being anti-clockwise so as to sandwich this and to get it out the way. Having my car parked at the end of lap one was handy as it allowed a quick gear change, and to only have to take out a pack for the second lap. Quite a grey and overcast day with occasional showers. The fresh gear definitely helped offer a wee lift. Was also pretty glad to not have the wee extra parkrun lap on the second loop. For the final four miles or so began to feel pretty leggy but progress remained steady.
Route: One lap of Loch Leven clockwise and another anti-clockwise (with a wee bonus parkrun loop).
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 486ft
Calories: 4,701
Conditions: Rainy, 8°C. Feels like 7°C. Humidity 88%. Wind 6.4mi/h from SW.
Key Track: You Can Call Me Al - Trinidad Cement Limited Skiffle Bunch
Rune: Laguz (Ocean)
Born to Rune XXII
(The third tour de Forth one)
Approaching the end of marathon routes I’d choose for the challenge I decided to revisit some I’d visited a few times. The tour de Forth route probably felt like I wanted to make peace with and to help distance the thoughts and memories from the first attempt. This was an unusually toasty and warm effort. It was a long Bank Holiday weekend for the Platty Joobs so this Thursday afternoon I stuck on my studio out of office and headed out.
The following days would see me heading over to Norway/Sweden for some additional bonus parkrun action. But also to properly escape the full blown platty joobs antics. I was in the process of gearing up for another ultra ‘The Wall’ that was in a few weeks time. This effort probably came at the end of three weeks of ‘peak’ build. It was good training in the heat and carrying a full pack was a necessary evil. Definitely felt leggy pretty much from the off but the training plan had been working as just felt like I could cruise onwards. Remember the stretch from Dunmore out towards Fallin where the pavements are absent and cars drive pretty quickly just being hard work. Face and brow were like a leaking tap.
When returned towards the relative civilisation of Springkerse retail park nipped into the supermarket for an ice lolly and few bottles of juice. Even though I’d taken out plenty fluid I’d drained it comfortably ahead of schedule. Managed to run until the 20 mile mark. When returned to the traffic free roads and paths I just sacked off. There was going to be a lot of running and riding around Oslo and Gothenburg over the weekend ahead so there was no point rinsing myself. Slightly funny moment where stopped into a petrol station to buy yet more juice. The cashier seemed to not be able to comprehend that I didn’t have a car and/or petrol to pay for. This despite very much looking (and smelling) like I’d run 23 miles. There was a reason for this… Just a very familiar 5k walk home from there before a shower and rest of day/evening spent in a cool dark room.
Route: Round the Forth.
Distance: 26.2 miles
Elevation: 574ft
Calories: 4,530
Conditions: Cloudy, 17°C. Feels like 17°C. Humidity 54%. Wind 4.6mi/h from WSW.
Key Track: Killing In The Name - Rage Against The Machine
Rune: Ingwaz (Earth God)
Born to Rune XXIII
(The yet so close, yet so far one)
Once again I revisited a favoured route as my penultimate Born to Rune marathon - of the original challenge. Set off in pretty braw conditions on legs that were just about recovering from ‘The Wall’. A few weeks before I’d run/walked almost 75 miles from Carlisle to Newcastle on a route inspired by Hadrian’s Wall. The event itself is 70 miles but may have sought permission to leave the course to do a ‘live’ parkrun run whilst completing an ultra because y’know…
Anyways, this was the first real run proper of any significant distance since. The legacy of The Wall had been that it was tricky and funny trying to rediscover the mojo and training rhythm. Though one thing that always seems to amuse after mammoth efforts is just the strength you seem to have. This was purposefully going to be a steady and relaxed effort. Instead probably crushed out the easiest and most progressive 18 miles I had run in years. It felt like a contrast to the last time I’d run this route probably a little conservatively. The landscape and scenery and various memorable touch points on the route seemed to fair be flying by. At that 18 mile mark the pace tailed off to what I’d have considered my ‘normal’ pace for such a distance, a few miles further on the wheels were beginning to fall off.
Think the main issue was mainly just in terms of fluids and once again I’d drained all the water/tailwind I had. Basically I knew I’d end up on Maryhill road soon enough, but I was gasping. Although far from ideal, I can comfortably run a half marathon with no fluids. Though I’ll really need some, once done. The advice for marathons/ultras is to drink to your thirst, short and often usually sighted as being best. I still have absolutely no idea how much or little fluid I should be taking. Temperature seems to play a massive factor (unsurprisingly) in this as well. Just left feeling like this something I’ll never quite master or get my head around.
When I eventually arrived on Maryhill road it was a pitstop to McD’s to sink a drink and to take one to go. Pace became infinitely more sedate but it was another reminder that I was meant to be ‘enjoying’ such time and outings. Once again arrived into town, grabbed a celebratory glass bottle of original Irn-Bru for the train back to my car.
Route: Larbert train station to Glasgow Queen Street Station.
Distance: 26.5 miles
Elevation: 791ft
Calories: 4,667
Conditions: Cloudy. 14°C. Feels like 14°C. Humidity 87%. Wind 13.6 mi/h from WSW.
Key Track: The Darkness That You Fear (HAAi Remix) - The Chemical Brothers
Rune: Othila (Heritage)
Born to Rune XXIV
(The one that had been long in the planning)
Ah the best-laid plans etc. So, as mentioned the reasons and motivations for this challenged changed and adapted as the months and years progressed. At the outset I hoped and foresaw an opportunity to run from my home to that of the person that had inspired such an undertaking. This would have been a ‘run’ of about forty miles and I figured it would make for a pretty momentous finale to hopefully be welcomed into open arms (well, once showered/bathed). Alas, that wasn’t to be but the idea of a final run in the direction of Edinburgh had been pretty firmly lodged. So I figured I’d make some sort of effort in that fashion in the hope of it ultimately being cathartic.
This run got off to a slightly faltering start as the lighting in the Falkirk tunnel was faulty. A pretty epic tunnel at the best of times, but pretty daunting with hella uneven paths and not an amazing amount of room. I slowly made my way through before then starting to run proper. The weather was a pretty mixed bag so I was running in a waterproof top as showers came and went. A quiet enough morning as I made my way out through Polmont and towards Linlithgow.
When running this route in the opposite direction it’s quite good in that the large emptier expanses are passed earlier on. At points where you may need interest or respite you tend to find more opportunity the further you go. Only today the route was reversed and I knew larger stretches of being out in the middle of nowhere awaited. Unlike the ‘run to Glasgow’ route which is pretty direct, I know this one is slightly more scenic with its meandering. Although it’s over such a distance it’s never too noticeable at the time, it’s a slightly annoying thing to know at some points you’re going the wrong way.
The playlist I’d set up for this run featured many a party anthem to help cheer me home, as well as having many a tune or artist with an Edinburgh link. Yip, very liberal drops of songs that feature in the Trainspotting films and Shallow Grave.
On this day I’d make it to 22.5 miles (passing the climbing centre at Ratho) before feeling like I was relatively done. Picking up training and a routine post The Wall had been tough. Nothing was feeling as easy as it had done and I had been encountering knee pain that I was having to manage. New shoes, and generally trying to better space out efforts across the weeks was having limited success. Trying to maintain the miles on the training plan for next months ultra was proving fairly tricky. So I found myself just walking in the last few miles. The showers had blown through and it was a nicer than not, if breezy day now. The marathon distance was completed just before entering the giant Tesco’s where I armed myself with some treats and rewards before the trains back to the car.
There it was done. The original challenge to run a marathon a month for two years and thus completing the viking alphabet completed. There was some carbicide committed that night I promise you.
Route: Falkirk High Station to Edinburgh Gyle station.
Distance: 26.9 miles
Elevation: 151ft
Calories: 4,642
Conditions: Cloudy, 11°C. Feels like 11°C. Humidity 87%. Wind 5.6mi/h from W.
Key Track: Landslide - Fleetwood Mac
Rune: Dagaz (Day)
Born to Rune XXV
(The one that broke me)
Ugh, another one I really wasn’t looking forward to recounting. But alas, it happened and it was part of the ‘journey’. The greater context surrounding this one was effectively off the back of completing the Canterbury Trails in 2021 I wanted a new goal to aim for. It may not have always seemed like it (especially from these reports) but I had enjoyed being fitter and active. Returning to ultras and such daft pursuits after retiring in 2018 had been cathartic. There weren’t many true ‘goals’ I had. There was one though and I was intrigued to see just how far I could potentially go in 24hrs…
With that in mind I saw the Glenmore24 advertised, an event had heard nice things about. It’s in a bit of the world I truly love and it tied in (pretty much) with an annual escape up that way. So behind the scenes 2022 was spent following a training plan that was billed as preparing me for 100 miles. Yip, no typo. It was a daunting task and it preyed on my mind every single time I put my trainers on this year. When The Wall arrived in June it was pretty much on par for being the sort of long training event required for this attempt. It largely had gone to plan but the aftermath wasn’t ideal. I lost my mojo and was struggling to knuckle down and return to the training rhythm and routine. Work and life wasn’t aiding this, but also the bigger concern was just continual knee pain and whilst not excruciating it was having a pretty serious impact on the loads of training I was doing. The weeks were feeling tougher and for the first time some runs and efforts started to be either missed or combined to try and match targets but by not matching the rest and recovery suggested.
By the time I rocked up in Aviemore it was very much a mixed mindset of – I’m as ready as I could make myself. Equally though knowing was in better place in June, or certainly August the year previous. I arrived, registered and set up a wee one person pop up shelter as my event base. Large enough to keep my kit and food dry, but crucially not large enough to sleep in or offer any real shelter or respite. With this set up I headed to a local campsite grabbing a decent carb loading on the way. The tent next to me wasn’t quite a party tent, but not that far off. Never tend to sleep well pre such an undertaking but there was certainly less sleep than I may have hoped for.
I awoke and packed up my tent and headed off for Aviemore parkrun. With Glenmore24 not starting until midday it seemed a little daft but I was able to fit in a very leisurely official visit this event. Absolutely love this route and have run it countless times as a freedom run over the years. The plan was to go at a similar pace to that intended later and it felt good.
Then headed over to the event, geared up, sorted my fluids and food and waited for the briefing and start. At midday we were underway and whilst not a surprise it became pretty obvious that the four mile course loop isn’t flat. Fairly undulating trail with only a few short sections that are quite technical. Those taking part are either signed up for a 12hr or 24hr tilt at seeing how far they can go. As a result there is a real mix of paces and approaches out there. Many a team or group or friends taking it on together, but also many a solo plodder like myself.
The lap itself was interesting enough. After an initial climb out the ‘hay field’ where the event is based it’s pretty much flat as you skirt Loch Morlich. The third mile includes some climb proper and is stretched out over a mile. Three main drags with some respite in between. Along with many others I was walking the hills but jogging whenever it felt comfortable to do so. Some stretches of the course looked pretty similar, so one hazard as the event went on was that you often (annoyingly) thought you were further on around the lap than you actually were. As the light and conditions changed across the day this seemed to repeat and felt like I never learned.
My plan and strategy had been to try and complete early laps in under an hour until I banked enough time to have a shot at a four mile lap each hour would equate to 100 miles. Managed to make it through 25 miles just five minutes down on what I’d hoped would be my perfect pace. This was during lap 7, and sadly that’s when the pain in my knees started to increase significantly. It’s difficult and frustrating as was it the sort of pain to stop me completely, no. Was it the sort of pain I could suck up and run off, also no. It became obvious that this was as good as my pace would get and things would only tail off from here. It wasn’t a particularly pleasant lap. Probably not aided by 12hr runners passing at fairly ferocious pace offering what felt and sounded like increasingly patronising ‘well done, keep going’ exchanges.
Returning to my shelter I contacted family who that afternoon/evening had arrived up to be staying nearby. Wasn’t meant to see them until this was over, but explained they may be seeing me sooner than not at this rate. I spoke to the event organiser re: options and I was very much locked in to the 24hrs. I could approach that how I wanted but etc. Set out on an 8th lap after refuelling, one realisation is that compared to other ultras as well carrying the fluid I do I also relied upon their pitstops for many a cup of squash. Turns out I hadn’t really been using the Glenmore24 water stop half way round the lap. The 8th lap was a struggle, motivation in tatters as realisation my body was failing me. SO annoying knowing that the engine was there, being a stubborn mofo was there, but ultimately my knees and the pain just couldn’t physically do what I desired. Towards the end of the lap groups of supporters for the 12hr participants were getting a bit lairy. Impeding progress and offering ‘support’ that wasn’t helping. A resident personality who was in charge of the timing/logging also offered some ‘encouragement’. It was of the beasting advice and whilst I know what she was hoping and going for it was absolutely the last thing I needed to hear. That was me, I was done. Went to see the organiser and explained I was heading off site to recuperate. I’d aim to return in the morning depending on how I was. Left my shelter so that I’d definitely have a need and reason to return.
So I retreated to warm chalet a few miles away. Family were there and were supportive. They could tell I was in an absolute stinker of a mood and that probably just needed to deal with that disappointment on my terms. That said, there was leftover pizza and got to see the highlights of my team drawing 0-0 on MOTD. As I turned in for the night it was blowing an absolute hoolie outside. Thoughts were definitely those that would be truly laying out the hard miles. Gutted to not be amongst them.
The alarm went off early so that I could make a call on where I was at. The knees were better but there would be no significant mileage completed. So held off for a while on returning. Thankfully I knew the marathon was in the bag. I was currently sitting on 32 miles complete and there’s just not real desire or achievement over adding to that (or not). Knowing I was going to fall so short of previous efforts it just didn’t matter.
Returned to the hay field as the rain began to lash down. I geared up in full waterproofs and set off to walk my 9th lap. Just had my tunes on and actually enjoyed the event a bit quieter as the final hours approached. The site was probably more than half empty with 12hr participants and supporters having left. On this 9th lap I decided that regardless of the weather I was going to ditch the waterproofs and ‘run’ one more and final lap. My knees may hate me but I was going to gie it laldy - or gie it as much as I had at any rate. My shelter was just after the start of a lap, so there was the quickest of pitstops to ditch the soaking gear and to head off for a final lap. My knees were hating me, but it felt good to take on the lap with more intent than at any point previous. 1.5 miles in and it was feeling like a questionable idea… It was funny reaching the hill and for the first time running it all. The expressions from the water stop crew were a picture. As returned towards the hay field there was a short stone step section that had always been a time to concentrate. In the wet this was pretty treacherous, so I inadvertently wiped out in a pretty epic fashion. So much rain had thankfully left the ground soft and puddle filled. But I was not completely soaked and knew that at 40 miles, it ended with not being what I’d hoped and strived for all year.
Route: Glenmore24.
Distance: 40 miles
Elevation: 3,343ft
Calories: 8,064
Conditions: Rainy, 15°C. Feels like 15°C. Humidity 86%. Wind 10.6mi/h from ESE
Key Track: We Are Fucking Fucked - Muse
Born to Rune XXVI
(The last* one)
After the Glenmore24 I had a week to recuperate in the Highlands. It was nice to switch off from work and life for pretty much the first time in 2022. What also happened is that a significant change in momentum seemed to knock me sideways. Soon after I succumbed to a terrible cold that I was convinced could well be the dreaded Covid. Continued to test negative but I was pretty much home/studio based and there wasn’t a hope in hell of any type of exercise. Kind of a blessing for my knees all the same. The cold absolutely went through me and fair savaged my chest and breathing. Sleep and recovery suffering for the duration.
At the start of October I was booked to head out to Germany for some bonus unity day parkrun tourism. As with 2021 I was going to try and turn the disappointment of failed London marathon ballot #10 into a more positive virtual marathon experience. Fortunately I discovered that the Cologne marathon was being held the day before unity day. The surrounding parkruns also due to be on the day before the marathon and for the bonus unity day event.
So early on an October Friday morn I found myself flying out to Schipol to then train it onwards to Düsseldorf. Largely went to plan with only one literal sprint through a station on the Dutch border to catch my connection. Checked into my hotel and went off to explore Düsseldorf and to source some dinner. The next morning woke and made my way to Volksgarten in the pouring rain. Just like being at home. Their lovely two lap parkrun happened with me struggling. I’d managed a whole two seven mile runs (aside from parkruns) across September as my training. This wasn’t boding well for the next day.
The rest of Saturday was spent hopping on another train to Cologne where I had to go and pick up my marathon pack, work out the public transport and then retreated to my hotel. Saturday evening being spent listening to the football back home and awaiting a pizza coming to me.
Sunday morning was overcast and not too warm, crucially dry with not much wind and pretty much ideal marathon conditions. Some other Scottish parkrun tourists were taking part in the marathon relay and/or supporting. We were due to meet up at 4pm for some pizza (again, I know) and beers. With the marathon starting ay 10am I had six hours to complete the 26.2 miles, to navigate back to the hotel, shower and change before making it out to the restaurant.
Cologne seemed to be a pretty beautiful city and I was looking forward to exploring this via the marathon route. The route was essentially four mini-loops or lollipops out and around various bits of the city before returning you to the finish beside the cathedral. The earlier half marathon used the middle two sections of the course so each loop was pretty much six miles or thereabouts.
Ignoring the advice if it being a marathon and not a sprint I decided to set out with quicker pacers than I expected to finish. Entirely personal but I knew if I’d set out alongside the pace I’d have hoped to keep I probably would have still fallen away. This way I knew I was certain to fall away but I wanted to (hopefully) be as far along the course as possible before this happened. Despite the lack of training it was a welcome return to running in as little gear as possible and being able to rely upon water and feed stations. Also, closed roads – AMAZING after Berlin the year before.
Well may be a stretch but things were certainly going to plan. I had just made it through the half way point where I could feel myself dropping off the pacers. This was fine though, still felt relatively comfortable. Would just try and keep this going when the next pacers arrived and join onto them. Only, they came and went. I was sinking like a stone pace wise. 16 miles in I was running on fumes. This is fine, been here before, I just keep on keeping on. By mile 20 I was truly knowing the meaning of running on fumes. The one saving grace being later drink stops offering Coca-Cola and Red Bull.
Also encountered a slight first, my watch which is usually and has always been incredibly accurate showed me I’d run a marathon and the finish was nowhere to be seen. I can expect some discrepancy but this was bizarre. In this final however long I probably looked at my watch more than I had done for the previous 26 miles. And onwards I went. I had my phone with me tracking my progress on the virtual London marathon app. Unbeknownst to me it had contentedly switched itself off content I’d completed 26.2 miles. And here I was still running. The route wasn’t particularly surrounded by high buildings and only had short sections of underpasses to negotiate. I have no answers, eventually turned onto their red carpet finish and crossed the line after 27.27 miles. Watch started and stopped on the respective lines.
It was over. 26 marathons in 26 months. Not a complete outpouring but I got a bit emotional as a real weight (sadly not literal) had left me. I was definitely delighted that this challenge was over. There was no great finale or glorious finish, I had to battle and toil to get round. But I did. Just ahead of the Glenmore24 I’d launched the justgiving page and the support of and kind messages really helped to fuel me onwards.
For all the support and help I’ve received - THANK YOU. You really did help to keep me going.
*But was it really…
Route: Cologne marathon.
Distance: 27.27(?) miles
Elevation: 407ft
Calories: 4,552
Conditions: Rainy, 14°C. Feels like 14°C. Humidity 87%. Wind 10.2mi/h from W.
Key Track: None, race rules banned music and headphones.
Prologue
It is done. In the aftermath of Cologne I returned home only to discover I’d finally been caught by Covid. It wasn’t particularly pleasant but it enforce some down time and recovery. Already reflecting back on the challenge and how the reasons and motivations changed. In a very different place to where probably hoped or imagined I maybe at the outset. It’s a little humbling and embarrassing to feel physically and mentally probably in a lower place than where I started. In much the way Marty McFly reacts whenever someone asks “What’s the matter McFly, chicken?”. I was asked about a potential daft plan involving some parkruns. It’s not completely agreed, but with the justgiving page still being active and me striving to raise as much as I can. There may well be a 27th ‘marathon’.
Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in…