Wednesday, 28 August 2013
UTMB & CCC 2012 Footage
2012 ULTRATRAILTV - CCC® GRAND COL FERRET by UltraTrailMontBlanc
2012 ULTRATRAILTV - UTMB® CONTAMINES by UltraTrailMontBlanc
22012 ULTRATRAILTV - UTMB FINISH by UltraTrailMontBlanc
Tuesday, 27 August 2013
Coast to Coast Adventure Race
The initial sea kayak stage from Whitehaven
In an unusually sensible decision for me I decided not to race the Open Adventure Coast to Coast race a few days before the CCC. I completed this four day adventure race in 2011 and was keen to compete again but thought I'd save the legs for the main event. However it did mean I was able to enjoy the atmosphere and buzz of the race as a supporter shuttling equipment, feeding my competitor, filming and generally drinking coffee in the sun.
The race began in a millpond like Whitehaven harbour with a sea kayak stage around to St Bees. As the flotilla swept around the headland they were met by choppy seas and things became a bit more exciting. A couple of competitors had to be rescued and ferried to the beach while the leading team capsized within sight of the finish and had an eventful swim and clamber through the rocks with their kayak to reach transition.
Day one is the most demanding for competitors and support crews alike. As the racers headed off on their bikes the boats were transported to Crummock Water. The next stage was a paddle in to a headwind along the length of the lake, an interesting and energy sapping unsupported portage and back into the boats to paddle to the far end of Buttermere. Finally the race took to the hills for a run over Robinson, Maiden Moor and Catbells. With the finish in Keswick in sight there's a final sting in the tail with a 600m swim across Derwent Water. After the days efforts the cold water triggered leg cramps in even the hardiest of competitors and the rescue kayaks were kept busy providing a floating stretching service. As the racers hobbled from the water they faced a short run in to the centre of Keswick and the finish outside the iconic Moot Hall.
Day 2 began in the half light of a misty morning with a short but sharp climb on the bikes up out of Keswick to Thirlmere Dam. The midges were out and hastened competitors through transition and into their kayaks for the paddle up Thirlmere. A muddy portage, change the shoes and away up the side of Helvellyn heading for the summit in the cloud. Navigation was certainly an issue for some of the competitors this year and there were a few variations on the normal descent via Swirral Edge and Hole in the Wall. The final paddling stage was from Patterdale to Pooley Bridge along the length of Ullswater.Conditions were improving fast but all the racers made it safely past the ice creams and on to the bikes for a mainly on road blast to Kirkby Stephen. Within a few miles of the finish an unsecured map restricted a
competitors view at high speed and she found herself sliding along the
road minus her bike. Missing several layers of skin but made of tough
stuff she was able to finish the day and with a bit of good work by the
medical team was able to complete the four days.
Low cloud gave a challenging start to day 3 with a boggy run over Nine Standards with even some of the most experienced competitors struggling with the navigation. Meanwhile the local farmer was doing a roaring trade in teas and coffees at transition as the support crews relaxed after an early start! The rest of the day would be spent on the bikes initially offroad on some great mountain biking over the moors to Castle Bolton and then following minor roads to Northallerton. Unfortunately another highspeed bike crash caused one of the leading teams to retire from the competition although the two remaining members did complete the course - in a particularly fast time.
The final day was spectacular as the early morning cloud inversion burned off to give a hot and dry day. The first racers were on their way at 4.30am making their way through the gloom on a short road bike to Swainton. The early start was worth it though as they climbed out of the cloud for a stunning sunrise as they ran over Carlton Bank on the Cleveland Way. A long biking stage then followed. Less technical than yesterday but mainly off road as far as Gainsley and then back on to the minor roads as far as Whitby. In a major route change from 2011 the final leg to the finish at Robin Hoods Bay was a run along the cliff top path dodging the bank holiday tourists. The staggered start times meant that the majority of the competitors finished within a short space of time of each other and there was a real party atmosphere on the terrace above the sea where the finish gantry was located. A top event with some very close racing. There were clear winners in each category but further down the field sometimes only seconds separated the racers after four days of racing. Race reports can be found at here and results here.
Low cloud gave a challenging start to day 3 with a boggy run over Nine Standards with even some of the most experienced competitors struggling with the navigation. Meanwhile the local farmer was doing a roaring trade in teas and coffees at transition as the support crews relaxed after an early start! The rest of the day would be spent on the bikes initially offroad on some great mountain biking over the moors to Castle Bolton and then following minor roads to Northallerton. Unfortunately another highspeed bike crash caused one of the leading teams to retire from the competition although the two remaining members did complete the course - in a particularly fast time.
The final day was spectacular as the early morning cloud inversion burned off to give a hot and dry day. The first racers were on their way at 4.30am making their way through the gloom on a short road bike to Swainton. The early start was worth it though as they climbed out of the cloud for a stunning sunrise as they ran over Carlton Bank on the Cleveland Way. A long biking stage then followed. Less technical than yesterday but mainly off road as far as Gainsley and then back on to the minor roads as far as Whitby. In a major route change from 2011 the final leg to the finish at Robin Hoods Bay was a run along the cliff top path dodging the bank holiday tourists. The staggered start times meant that the majority of the competitors finished within a short space of time of each other and there was a real party atmosphere on the terrace above the sea where the finish gantry was located. A top event with some very close racing. There were clear winners in each category but further down the field sometimes only seconds separated the racers after four days of racing. Race reports can be found at here and results here.
The field heads for St Bees and some rough conditions!
Stunning early morning on the Cleveland Way
Fast mountain biking on the fourth and final day of racing
UTMB Kit
As is usual in ultra running the organisers of the UTMB specify a minimal kit list. In fact the last three events have been seriously affected my poor weather with snow featuring regularly so it pays to be prepared. The list below is the mandatory list with my notes in italics
- Mobile phone
- Personal cup or tumbler 15cl minimum
- Stock of water minimum 1 litre - carried in a 2 litre bladder
- Two torches in good working condition with replacement batteries - Silva Runner with a Petzl Tikka 2 as back up
- Survival blanket 1.40m x 2m minimum - For extra protection I carry a Sol Emergency Bivi
- Whistle - Built into one of my rucksack buckles
- Adhesive elastic band enable making a bandage or a strapping (mini 100cm x 6 cm) - Support bandage, zinc oxide tape and Compeed usually sees me through
- Food reserve - A block of marzipan which lives in the bottom of my bag!
- Jacket with hood and made with a waterproof and breathable membrane which will withstand the bad weather in the mountains - I'm carrying a slightly heavier Alpine Project shell from The North Face which offers a huge amount of protection for its weight.
- Long running trousers or leggings or a combination of leggings and long socks which cover the legs completely - A combination of compression socks and Capri tights
- Additional warm midlayer top: One single midlayer long sleeve top for warmth (cotton excluded) with a minimum weight of 180g (Men, size M) OR a two piece clothing combination of a long sleeve baselayer/midlayer for warmth (cotton excluded) with a minimum weight of 110g (Men, size M) and a windproof jacket* with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) protection - I've gone for the flexible option of a The North Face Alpine Project Wind Jacket (discontinued) and a merino thermal base layer
- Cap or bandana - TNF cap plus a buff.
- Warm hat - Woolly and logo'd from a well known outdoor brand!
- Warm and waterproof gloves - A combination of thermal and waterproof work gloves
- Waterproof over-trousers - The North Face AK Stormy Trail Pants
- Rucksack - My current bag is The North Face Enduro Plus but I will be trialing one of their new race vests designed with the help of Jez Bragg
- Trail shoes - La Sportiva Raptors, a very rugged and comfortable pair of trail shoes which fit my feet well. However they have slightly too much raise for my developing natural running style and I'm prone to injury when using them. Time to look for a new ultra shoe after this race.
- Trekking poles - Being one of the heavier runners in the field I tend to use my full weight Black Diamond expedition poles which I also use for ski mountaineering! They are obviously significantly heavier than pure running poles but it does mean I can be pretty aggressive with them and they have a huge benefit on my performance.
- Map and compass - You can't take the mountaineer out of the runner!
Thursday, 22 August 2013
A unique approach to tapering!
Carstensz Pyramid
I've had an unusual build up to the CCC. My last significant run turned out to be the Lakeland 100, 38 hours on my feet in boiling sunshine and torrential rain. A few days later I headed off to Indonesia to guide on Carstensz Pyramid, the highest peak in Australasia and one of the seven continental summits. A seven day trek through the jungle in knee deep mud taxed already tired legs but spending a bit of time at altitudes around 4000m should have set me for the demands of running in the Alps. Back in the UK I've had the opportunity to wash the mud out of my ears and get in a couple of easy runs in an effort to get some speed back into my legs but the main thing is I'm injury free. I picked up a slight cold on the 51 hour journey home (6 flights) but that seems to have cleared up and the forced weight loss due to a diet of rice for 3 weeks means I'm nearly at my target racing weight :)
My 5th Seven Summit - Carstensz Pyramid
Saturday, 17 August 2013
Thoughts on the CCC - Kim Collison
Adventure racer Kim Collison (@CollisonKim) is another newcomer to the UTMB event. A third place in an un-recceed 2013 Fellsman means he's going to be quick over the CCC course. Unfortunately illness stopped his attempt on the Lakeland 100 while at the front of a strong field but a recent good showing in the English Fell Running Championship counter at Turners Landscape showed a welcome return to form.
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Why do you run ultras?
I really enjoy challenges which stretch me and the feeling you get from overcoming these challenges.
Can you give us a quick overview of your running history / ultras etc?
Initially I ran a lot as a kid going to a running club and competing in cross countries and road races. This drifted away through university and travels abroad. After settling back in the UK in 2008 I started to run, bike, paddle again. I started to get into orienteering, adventure racing and fell running. My first foray into ultra running was the completion of a Bob Graham round in 2009 following in my fathers footsteps but with injury following soon after ultra running did not feature again until this year really. Instead my focus was changed towards Expedition adventure racing competing in races in the Lakes 2010, South Africa 2011 and finally in 2012 going to the World Championships in France with Team Mountain Hardwear coming 15th. 2012 was also a good season for me in fell running terms placing in the top 10 in the English Championship series. In 2013 the AR World Championships is still a priority but with the race not until December I wanted to target some personal ultra challenges this summer. This included the Lakeland 100 and the CCC. In preparation for my debut 100 miler, I have participated in several other mountain ultras building up to July. In December Tour de Helvellyn 38 miles, March Wurthering Hike 32 miles, April Dawn to Dusk 42 miles, April Fellsmen 61 miles.
Initially I ran a lot as a kid going to a running club and competing in cross countries and road races. This drifted away through university and travels abroad. After settling back in the UK in 2008 I started to run, bike, paddle again. I started to get into orienteering, adventure racing and fell running. My first foray into ultra running was the completion of a Bob Graham round in 2009 following in my fathers footsteps but with injury following soon after ultra running did not feature again until this year really. Instead my focus was changed towards Expedition adventure racing competing in races in the Lakes 2010, South Africa 2011 and finally in 2012 going to the World Championships in France with Team Mountain Hardwear coming 15th. 2012 was also a good season for me in fell running terms placing in the top 10 in the English Championship series. In 2013 the AR World Championships is still a priority but with the race not until December I wanted to target some personal ultra challenges this summer. This included the Lakeland 100 and the CCC. In preparation for my debut 100 miler, I have participated in several other mountain ultras building up to July. In December Tour de Helvellyn 38 miles, March Wurthering Hike 32 miles, April Dawn to Dusk 42 miles, April Fellsmen 61 miles.
Do you know the route at all? Are you planning to recce it before the big day or just enjoy what comes?
I will have to just enjoy the course as it comes with little if no time to recce the course, this sometimes can add to the adventure, with the discovery of the unknown.
How has training being going? Can you give us a sample of your program?
Training went well early season getting in some big 100 mile weeks and more recently closer to 60 mile weeks. After a couple of races in June I've struggled with some muscle fatigue and a cold and my form has faltered a little but with some rest I feel rejuvenated and have bounce in my step ready for the Lakeland 100. I will rest for a week after the 100 and then get three 60/70 mile weeks, work dependent before resting for the CCC.
What's the key bits of your equipment. Are you a fan of poles?
Training went well early season getting in some big 100 mile weeks and more recently closer to 60 mile weeks. After a couple of races in June I've struggled with some muscle fatigue and a cold and my form has faltered a little but with some rest I feel rejuvenated and have bounce in my step ready for the Lakeland 100. I will rest for a week after the 100 and then get three 60/70 mile weeks, work dependent before resting for the CCC.
What's the key bits of your equipment. Are you a fan of poles?
Key equipment for me is a MHW Blazer waterproof, really light and
breathable and the MHW Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket, super light, warm and can
use in the wet. A Petzl Nao great lighting for running through the
night. Will be using poles as they are great assistance on those
ascents, just hope I can learn to use them effectively.
Cushioned or natural running shoes?
I believe in natural running and used barefoot running to come back from injury and to work on technique but I will be wearing a shoe with a little bit of cushioning with low differential and lightweight. Still trying to maintain a natural style.
Cushioned or natural running shoes?
I believe in natural running and used barefoot running to come back from injury and to work on technique but I will be wearing a shoe with a little bit of cushioning with low differential and lightweight. Still trying to maintain a natural style.
Any thoughts on nutrition. What are your secret ingredients?
I try to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and veg, fish, good
fats and a reduction in simple carbs, not quite paleo but towards that
direction. However I love eating so probably eat too much!!
Do you have a target time?
I think a sub 11 hour time would be realistic and with the hope of pushing closer to ten. This will depend on how I manage to recover from the 100 miler and what impact the altitude will have on me.
Do you have a target time?
I think a sub 11 hour time would be realistic and with the hope of pushing closer to ten. This will depend on how I manage to recover from the 100 miler and what impact the altitude will have on me.
Any plans for the UTMB in the future?
Hopefully 2014!!
Thursday, 15 August 2013
Thoughts on the CCC - Oli Blomfield
I'm not the only first timer lining up for the CCC this year. There's a few familiar faces from the Lake District also beginning their international careers! Oli Blomfield (@oliblom) is a relative newcomer to Ultras but is showing a huge amount of natural talent coupled with lots of hard work. Since this interview he completed the Lakeland 100 in a quick time of 27:13, an impressively fast time for his debut at this distance on arguably the toughest 100 on the circuit.
Why do you run ultras?
I am enjoying the extra challenge they afford. With the training & racing I find that I am learning allot more about myself on many levels. Plus as with fell/hill racing everyone so far has been very friendly & helpful.
Can you give us a quick overview of your running history / ultras etc?
I ran a bit through school & college, 800m & some cross country, but then opted for rowing at University. I used to run a bit when I worked on cruise ships, taking off for a run when were in port, I used to get some strange looks in St Petersburg. However I would get knee & ankle pain so I stopped in my early thirties. I practiced Ashtanga Yoga for a couple of years whilst living in Helsinki which seemed to sort my knees & ankles and after running a half marathon trail run on an Outward Bound Course in New Zealand at the age of 35, I started running regularly. I moved back to the UK ran the Edinburgh 10k and then shortly after moved to Fort William where I joined Lochaber AC and was introduced to Hill Running. I thought they were winding the English boy up when they were telling me about The Ben race, but before I knew it I had done my first hill race, a half Ben race and I was hooked. I raced in Scotland at every opportunity, but didn't venture above 20miles until a year or so, but enjoyed the longer distance. I still wanted to run a road marathon & got a London place thru the club but injury meant I had to postpone my first year & almost the second year with 5 weeks to go. I got the injury fixed & got around, slower than I hoped but it was still an enjoyable day. I soon after tried my first Ultra, (Shires & Spires) & began reading Ultra books (Dean Karnazes to start) and started reading about all the amazing challenges & runners. I targeted a Bob Graham Round & the Lakeland100 this year along with the CCC. Unfortunately my BGR has had to be postponed due to illness, but training is back on track now!
What are you're expectations for the event as a whole. What have heard about the atmosphere and the race itself?
I have heard the atmosphere is amazing, the London Marathon equivalent of Ultras. And of course the potential for stunning scenary, weather pending! Watching the helicopter film footage of Jillian running the UTMB really inspired me!
How has training being going? Can you give us a sample of your program?
I had a virus in March which forced me to postpone by BGR attempt and wiped me out for a month or so. I seem to be back on track now, maybe a week or two behind for the L100 but should be in shape for CCC as long as I keep myself together during the L100! I haven't really stuck to a program, but from the reading I have done getting in back to back long runs at the weekend seems to have been my only constant. Monday & Fridays have been rest days & in between just doing what I have found time for & what the body felt ok with.
Do you know the route at all? Are you planning to recce it before the big day or just enjoy what comes?
Not at all, other than the names of the towns & the passes! We will be out two days beforehand, so will just be enjoying whatever comes up!
Do you listen to music while you run? What's on your playlist? Have you listened to Van Gellis' UTMB anthem yet?
I have tried once or twice, but enjoy what nature has to offer as a soundtrack! Yes I know the Van Gellis anthem, very soul lifting at the start, I imagine it will get into my head, as the London marathon tune does every year.
What's the key bits of your equipment. Are you a fan of poles?
For such long races all kit needs to work for you personally. But I suppose shoes & a comfortable pack would be key if I had to say. I have started using poles this year & think they will be of great benefit, helping to protect knees & give extra balance & support.
Cushioned or natural running shoes?
With the injuries I picked up road running I looked at my running style & with this my choice of footwear, opting for a much flatter/natural shoe. However for longer ultra runs I will be opting for some extra cushion, but not big wedged road style shoes.
Any thoughts on nutrition. What are your secret ingredients?
I think nutrition plays a massive part in training & racing. I avoid processed food & hardly eat meat, so mainly fresh veges, fruits, pulses, rice, fish, wholemeal breads & pastas. I highly recommend the recipes in Scott Jurek's book "Eat & Run" especially the vege chilli & the rice parcels, the latter I have been taking out on long runs!
Do you have a target time?
No, just to finish & enjoy!
Any plans for the UTMB in the future?
Yes. I didn't have enough qualifying points this time round, so hopefully next year. I am also visiting New Zealand next year so eyeing up a couple of challenges there. And then of course the USA has some very tempting races, time & money dependent!
Why do you run ultras?
I am enjoying the extra challenge they afford. With the training & racing I find that I am learning allot more about myself on many levels. Plus as with fell/hill racing everyone so far has been very friendly & helpful.
Can you give us a quick overview of your running history / ultras etc?
I ran a bit through school & college, 800m & some cross country, but then opted for rowing at University. I used to run a bit when I worked on cruise ships, taking off for a run when were in port, I used to get some strange looks in St Petersburg. However I would get knee & ankle pain so I stopped in my early thirties. I practiced Ashtanga Yoga for a couple of years whilst living in Helsinki which seemed to sort my knees & ankles and after running a half marathon trail run on an Outward Bound Course in New Zealand at the age of 35, I started running regularly. I moved back to the UK ran the Edinburgh 10k and then shortly after moved to Fort William where I joined Lochaber AC and was introduced to Hill Running. I thought they were winding the English boy up when they were telling me about The Ben race, but before I knew it I had done my first hill race, a half Ben race and I was hooked. I raced in Scotland at every opportunity, but didn't venture above 20miles until a year or so, but enjoyed the longer distance. I still wanted to run a road marathon & got a London place thru the club but injury meant I had to postpone my first year & almost the second year with 5 weeks to go. I got the injury fixed & got around, slower than I hoped but it was still an enjoyable day. I soon after tried my first Ultra, (Shires & Spires) & began reading Ultra books (Dean Karnazes to start) and started reading about all the amazing challenges & runners. I targeted a Bob Graham Round & the Lakeland100 this year along with the CCC. Unfortunately my BGR has had to be postponed due to illness, but training is back on track now!
What are you're expectations for the event as a whole. What have heard about the atmosphere and the race itself?
I have heard the atmosphere is amazing, the London Marathon equivalent of Ultras. And of course the potential for stunning scenary, weather pending! Watching the helicopter film footage of Jillian running the UTMB really inspired me!
How has training being going? Can you give us a sample of your program?
I had a virus in March which forced me to postpone by BGR attempt and wiped me out for a month or so. I seem to be back on track now, maybe a week or two behind for the L100 but should be in shape for CCC as long as I keep myself together during the L100! I haven't really stuck to a program, but from the reading I have done getting in back to back long runs at the weekend seems to have been my only constant. Monday & Fridays have been rest days & in between just doing what I have found time for & what the body felt ok with.
Do you know the route at all? Are you planning to recce it before the big day or just enjoy what comes?
Not at all, other than the names of the towns & the passes! We will be out two days beforehand, so will just be enjoying whatever comes up!
Do you listen to music while you run? What's on your playlist? Have you listened to Van Gellis' UTMB anthem yet?
I have tried once or twice, but enjoy what nature has to offer as a soundtrack! Yes I know the Van Gellis anthem, very soul lifting at the start, I imagine it will get into my head, as the London marathon tune does every year.
What's the key bits of your equipment. Are you a fan of poles?
For such long races all kit needs to work for you personally. But I suppose shoes & a comfortable pack would be key if I had to say. I have started using poles this year & think they will be of great benefit, helping to protect knees & give extra balance & support.
Cushioned or natural running shoes?
With the injuries I picked up road running I looked at my running style & with this my choice of footwear, opting for a much flatter/natural shoe. However for longer ultra runs I will be opting for some extra cushion, but not big wedged road style shoes.
Any thoughts on nutrition. What are your secret ingredients?
I think nutrition plays a massive part in training & racing. I avoid processed food & hardly eat meat, so mainly fresh veges, fruits, pulses, rice, fish, wholemeal breads & pastas. I highly recommend the recipes in Scott Jurek's book "Eat & Run" especially the vege chilli & the rice parcels, the latter I have been taking out on long runs!
Do you have a target time?
No, just to finish & enjoy!
Any plans for the UTMB in the future?
Yes. I didn't have enough qualifying points this time round, so hopefully next year. I am also visiting New Zealand next year so eyeing up a couple of challenges there. And then of course the USA has some very tempting races, time & money dependent!
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