A relatively last minute decision to do the sold out 50km, when the planets aligned as Renee asked me to aid her for the 100km (the next day), and there was a friend of a friend selling a ticket to the 50km. Although it’s no longer the 6 pack of beer for the ticket, it was literally the full price again, even after the original purchaser had paid full price – bit of double dipping from Ironman – but anyway, with the added bonus of Renee having booked all the transfers and accom – the trip down was meant to be.
For the event, we stayed down in Crackenback which was super helpful to be close to the 25km (of the 50km) and the 50km (of the 100km). Also relatively close to the finish line too. With lots of nice Ski Villas in this hub which is also offpeak as another bonus.
Getting to the start line on the Thursday was a bit unusual given most events start on the Saturday – but all good
Going in to this event didn’t really have a plan, other than to do the usual, start at the back, start slow and walk the ups with purpose.
But looking at the photo below, you can see, it already was going to be a different to planned race. The good news is that – this was the start of Wave 3 so there were already 200ish runners infront? Albiet elite and those planning with a faster time that I was thinking – can’t remember what I put down in the registration.
Either way, I was at the front of this wave, and with the excitement of the countdown to start on time, we were off. Fortunately Renee and Nick were there to take my additional jacket that I had on until we started, as it was pretty chilly up there – plus with the wind.
7.22am @ Start Line. Starting off was gentle paced, and noticeably thinner air than my usual low lying terrian of Brisbane. So I though I could be struggling for this, but fortunately the thinner air was not as noticible after the first 5kms as we started to go back down towards Thredbow.
8.06am – Just out of Perisher. As we started to get into the terrian, the scenery was spectacular, alot of single trails – with some good chat s to some other nervous runners who were new to the 50km distance. IT was great to spend a few kms with these guys. We did get a caught on a large conga line, which got made significantly longer with runner ahead slipping and hitting his head. The terrian was reasonably technical, more of a trip concern, and also the grates (also known as cheese graters) that provided an easier run option down the mountain while preserving the flora.
@9.22 about to hit Bullocks Flats CP, Still in high spirits – looking forward to seeing the guys at the halfway mark – really enjoying the trails and the scenicness of the downhill and then along the streams.
After this was a long gradual incline, with lots of nice suspension bridges (just don’t try to run over it when another larger runner is also running over it).
At this point I was wondering when the big climg was going to start, it became pretty obvious! This was larger and longer than I an anticipated – although not sure what I was expecting, but it seemed to go for-ever.
Fortunately, some other runners where going at a similiar pace, so some conversation made it go a bit quicker at the time. I have to admit, spirits were getting low getting up there.
Then this happened….
Upon reaching the top – we had some snow crossings – excitement levels fully recharged and now only had the downhill to go.
@2.54pm On top approaching at Eagles Nest
Soon after @ Eagles Nest. Even stopped in the aid start to try the provided nutrition bars (I just put it in my pack – and side note: I had it the next day and it was terrible)
With a suprisingly long down hill, not on the roads, but straight down a stepping trail, finally saw the finish line and primed myself for the usual #jumpshot
https://www.strava.com/activities/16578418840
Gear: Wore the same clothes the whole way. Altra Lone Peak 9 shoes, Lulemon Shorts (with liner) and Mountain Goats Shirt.
Nutrition: Tried something new with the:
- Precision 1500mg Tablets in 500ml flask every hour (drunk in 30) and then 500ml flask of water seperately (with the gel below)
- Precision 30g GEL and 3 snakes lollies every hour
- Eating at the aid station as required.
I think I am getting close to an ideal nutrition combination for me
Super thanks to Renee and Nick for making this event easy logistically and as great supporters.
Was also topped off by spending the day with Nick and learning about aid from his perspective, and between us made a solid support crew for Renee in the 100km on the Friday – that is a seperate story to tell 🙂
Totally recommend do this event, I would say it is an easier 50 than The Guzzler, but the hill at the end of the Mt Kosci event is much more brutal! Hopefully see you there next year.
