Great North Walk 100s Options

[Diane]

Anyone from the North Shore contemplating dinner with Blue Dog tonight?

[Eagle]

Finished putting up the photos and some captions. The last ones that were taken were the ones at or near the highest point. Sometime before that we knew we had made a mistake as we had left our torches and headlamps at Checkpoint 2. We had them in the Bag for Checkpoint 3.

On the Friday driving up we decided they should be in Bag 2 - we forgot to change them. By mid afternoon after we had left Checkpoint 2 we had did some calculations and knew we would have to be lucky to get to Checkpoin 3 in daylight. As it was we had to push very very hard for the last 90 minnutesor to make the Checkpoint just as it was getting too dark to see the trail.

Never been so pleased to see Uncle Dave out on the trail with torches.

Have never but photos up but have enjyed the morning, Has some time as some of the blisters were infected (stagnet water and slimey mud after Checkpoint 4) and I clearly didn't clean them enough last night - so have been sitting here with my feet in a bucket of detol.

Now have shoes on and am about to spend an afternoon at the office. Will be at the pub tonight at about 7.30. B)

[plu]

Ray's photos are now in an album in the trail and Ultra Races Gallery. HERE.

Plu

[RMC]

Eagle.
Blisters will heal but the memory won't. Had blisters myself the last 25k of GH100 miler 2 months ago and can still see where they were on the feet. Well done on getting as far as you did on what sounds like a monster of a course.

[Eagle]

Have debated with myself if I would post what I recorded at Checkpoints 1,2 & 3. I don't to appear self centered etc but on the other hand thought they maybe of some interest - probably only to me.

However here goes ( and for those who consider my thoughts should be left with me I apologise) - it is typed as dictated with just grammar and punction added for correctnes.

Checkoint 1:
Arrived at 10.40 am - after a 4 hour 40 minute section for 29ks. Some tough up and down sections. The weather is fine blue sky and humid. It is now getting warm and is still. Got lost on a few times for a few minutes. Arrived well ahead of the cut off time but we paced it moderate. It was comfortable. We started off with a 7k per hour pace but that slowed in the steeper sections to 4k per hour

I feel comfortable and well hudrated. Food intake on the section seemed okay. We are just gtting our heads ready for the next 'easy' flatish section. Uncle Dave says if it is flat then run it slow otherwise there will be noting left in the tank.

I can see the Dog pacing ready to start he was here 10 minutes earlier than me. For me 5 minUTES AND WE ARE GONE.

Checkpoint 2 :
Arrived at 1.40pm - 2.55 hours for the 25ks. Splits per hour 9.00/7.00/9.00. About an hour on the road - another hour down into the valley including the valley and then about 45 minutes on the road to the checkpoint.

Quite exhausted after the last bit of road run in the heat. Feed of creamed rice (thanks Mr G). lots of coke (never drink it other than for running) and some carb bars. Uncle Dave filled the water back pack. Hung around longer to properly refuel etc.

We know the next section is long about 29k and the hardest on the course in regard to clims. Also the track into Checkpoint 3 is difficult and narrow. I have run it before because you run about 2.7k into the Basin and then along the same track to rejoin the GNW.

We will both be pleased to get the next section over as we will have travelled just over 80k and further than either of us have done before.

Well lets get going and get this over. Leaving at 2.15.

Checkpint 3 :

Arrived at 7.50pm. It was one hellof a section. I don't have to compare it to anything it was hell in section. So so step - I was getting up in a crawl - yes grab a rock and pul yourself up to tne next one. I thoughtthis was a run - nobody told me you needed mountain climbing experiince.

There wera couple of huge huge hill Got in just as it was geeting too dark to move. We didn't put in torches with us at Checkpoint 2 and so for the last 3 hours we have been pushing to limit to arrive in datlight. We just made it .

I am having major blister problems. Was going to get my sock off and put new one on and different shoes. Couldn't get my shoes off as my socks were stuck at the heel to the back of my shoes through the blisters busting and then drying the sock to the shoes. I don't wont to know what is happening there.

Not sure if I will make it to Checkpoint 3 but having mad ethe decision to leave I will make it. The last part of the next section is 11k of sealed roads and so the crew could collect me but if I get the close to 100 I will get there under my own steam.

THe Checkpoint was hectic. I tried to change socks etc and gace up. We need to change into dry clothes for the night and warmer clothes, reflective vest and lights, refeul and hydrate.

Out at 8.10.
I didn't record at checkpoint 4 as it was late and also very very hectic - with Spud running with the Dodg and me refusing to go out with them and the crew totally confused about what and why things were happening. From memory got in after 12.30 but not much after.

It took us over 4 hours - when we were fresh and in the day it was a breeze in just over 3 hours.

Dog and Spud left just after 1.00am I left soon after when they were out of sight.

There it is!!!!. B)

[RawAussieAthlete]

My background
-------------
Having only done 1 marathon and 2 ultras, my previous races pale in comparison to GNW100s:
- Bilpin Bush run 36k (2003), final 7-8km is a killer slow climb completely devoid of flats
- the Warrumbungles 42k (Sept 2003)
- the Warrumbungles 50k (July 2005), tough climbs but not a scratch on the GNW100s
- Sydney Oxfam Trailwalker (Aug 2005), when I saw the Trailwalker profile superimposed over GNW100s profile, it was like comparing the City to Surf to the Six Foot Track.

My Motivation
-------------
From friends and family I'd heard everything from "You're a lunatic!", "You're crazy!", "You're mad" and "You'll end up an arthritic mess when you're in your 50s" but I was excited at the thought of 2 things I never imagined I could:
- entering a 100 mile event through extremely demanding terrain
- being in remote bushland, at night, alone, navigating with no way to contact the outside world than a whistle

Lessons learnt
--------------
- Distances at night are incredibly difficult to judge when you aren't travelling at a regular pace.
- Using the detailed directions alone and reverting to the map only if something doesn't make sense doesn't work. For the few extra seconds it takes I think best practice would be to always:
1. Read the detailed direction clearly
2. Take a mental note of the distance and altitude gain/loss until the next direction
3. Check that the direction agrees with the map
4. Give a quick check on the compass to make sure you haven't made a mistake

What I'd do differently next time
---------------------------------
- Make it to Patonga!
- Less sweets, more savouries (vegan pizza)
- Lots of cycling to prepare quads
- More hill training (sandhills can be tough on the knees...so maybe just cycling and solid hills)
- Don't overexert myself by running any sections too hard as the cost is too high (consistency is the key)

My story
--------
On the Friday I had a 2 hr lunchtime sleep but then was up until 11:30pm packing all my drop bags and re-reading the race materials. I awoke a 4am for my 4:15am picked up (Thanks Brendan! Hope the bucks weekend was all you hoped for). I hadn't really carbo loaded apart from spaghetti on the Friday night. I would have loved to have had about 8 bananas for breakfast but they weren't ripe enough. We arrived about 5am in time to give blood and empty the bowels...this wasn't to happen again for another 48hrs! I only recently found out that bacteria in your colon converts half your fibre into fuel readily available to muscles; a by-product being gas which other bacteria converts a portion into readily available muscle fuel. The remaining gas is emitted...don't run too close behind these guys! [Ref: Vegan Voice No 23 pg 19]

Fortunately I was able to eat 4 small bananas just before the race start. Feeling outclassed and in awe of the achievements of those I was running with, I still couldn't believe I was in a race amongst these legends.

With no support crew I had a drop bag at each checkpoint each with:
- a fresh pair of good trail running socks
- a fresh shirt
- a piece of fruitcake (Thanks Lynita! Delicious!)
- 2 chocolate bars and a couple of other vegan bars and dried fruit.
I generally ate 1 banana at each checkpoint and another about 30 mins later, a little piece at a time with a mouthful of water. Everything I ate during the race seemed dry and I could only get it down with some water. I took capers for their high level of sodium, but next time I'll rinse off the vinegar first!

I spent the first 15km running the flats and gentle downhills and walking the ups. Having met Paul Every a few nights earlier at the Trailwalker presentation night, we had a good chat as the miles chugged by. Yianis had already pulled away from us, but I was told we'd see him later as he doesn't take the heat very well. I had good conversations getting to know Rodney and Lawrence in these early stages of the race and also met Deano who was to drop out at CP3 with blistered, swollen feet which he said felt like walking on hot coals. I picked up many stories including Glasshouse 100s, Mittagong to Katoomba and Coast to Kosi. Having a 3 litre camelbak I didn't require a water top up at the service station. Both calves were threatening to cramp only 15km into the race towards the top of the climb to Heaton Gap trackhead. It wasn't much later that my quads were also very tight and getting that punching bag feeling.

The seam in Paul Every's camelbak bladder had split by the Heaton Gap communications tower. A quick repair with waterproof patches was attempted but fortunately a spare was given by another runner. Rodney and I pressed ahead. Many kilometres later I was very concerned that Paul hadn't overtaken me. Knowing his capabilities I was concluding I was going too hard to early.

Passing the water tank just past the Heaton Gap lookout left me on my own for the first time in the race. It was a feeling of freedom and a race highlight for me.

I was wearing "Comform'able inner soles for running & dynamic sports" to give me the extra arch support I don't usually get from Asics/Brooks running shoes. Having only worn them for about 8 days with only one 5km run in them, I was developing blisters on my arches. I took out the inserts reverting back to the Brooks inner sole. After using some bandaids (and sports tape at CP2) I didn't have any foot problems for the rest of the race. I did the right thing acting early.

At CP1 (10:40am) the main pack left 3-5 minutes ahead of me when I found out Rodney had left his map behind! Off I trotted catching him a few km later...only to realise I hadn't topped up my water at CP1!!! I only had about 1.25 litres of water until the next checkpoint and it was getting hot! Fortunately Lawrence was able to give me 500-600 mls of water for which I am eternally greatful. We both arrived at CP2 with no water but didn't have to cover any distance without fluids.

By CP2 I was very dehydrated. Barely urinating and not sweating but my brain was still functioning. I succumbed to the sports drinks here (being a vegan health freak I'm pretty strict on natural approaches but I'd gotten myself into trouble). My camelbak was filled to the brim complete with ice (thanks to the Trotters volunteers!!!) and my bottle of soak water was topped up (currants and/or sultanas soaked for 24hrs gives good nutrient rich fluids). I took a little over 30 minutes in the shade at this checkpoint, trying to get my fluids back up. It was to be another 3-4 hours before I was rehydrated. I picked up my headlamps and reflective vest here which was fortunate as it was dark for almost the last hour to CP3.

To avoid stiffening up too much Lawrence set off walking down the road until I caught him. I set off running down the road about 1.5 km and Lawrence was walking back towards me. He'd left all his maps at the checkpoint. See a trend here??? Perhaps there should be a big sign on the way out of each checkpoint: "Do you have your maps?". Fortunately I had a spare set and gave them to him, so he didn't have to go back to CP2.

In the 14.2km from CP2 to the unmanned water station just after Watagan Creek Road, I had drunk 2.75 litres of fluids and was still dehydrated. The entire course was well marked except for a gate a few km after CP2 which baffled us as it looked like private property and didn't have the usual GNW steps to get over it. We wasted 30 mins here in the hottest part of the day going back and forth to ensure we were on the right path and not wanting to enter private property possibly jeopardising the future of the race.

Heading up the second killer climb in the race to the Communications Tower (Cabans Rd) I was drinking every 1-2 minutes as that was how frequently my mouth became dry. Fortunately Lawrence had previously been to the Basin Campsite and we didn't get lost in that section like so many others. The slow 2.7km haul in and out of the Basin Campsite was a memorable part of the race as Lawrence and I were able to get an update from most of the field including Paul Every, Blue Dog, Eagle, Jan and Rodney.

4.6km out of the Basin Campsite, Lawrence and I made a major mistake in missing the right turn onto Kingtree Ridge Rd and unknowingly heading north for about 5-6km. A fairly solid 50 min run back to Kingtree Ridge Rd finished my quads for the race. The tough things with a race like this is that any significant mistakes can put you very close to the race cut-off times. Now on Kingtree Ridge Rd we had the opportunity for a good run but my quads didn't allow it. On the steep decent down to the Cedar Brush trackhead I was frequently putting both feet on each step making very slow progress. I concluded around this point that if my quads didn't improve by Yarramalong I would have no chance of making the cut-off times to Patonga. Having accepted the 100km optional finish and knowing it wasn't too far away, I ran large sections along the final roads leading into Yarramalong trying not to hold Lawrence back. Thanks to Lawrence for dragging me through this.
After covering about 17.5km with completely trashed quads which weren't recovering I took the soft option of the 100km finish accepting my quads couldn't get me through the numerous remaining hills by the cutoff times. I finished at about 3:15am with a 100km race time of around 21 hours 15 mins.
...but I can't help but wonder how much further I could have gone before complete breakdown.

After a 20 minute drive home, a warm bath supervised by my wife to make sure I didn't drown when I fell asleep (which I did many times) (...an ice bath would have been better), a litre of watermelon juice, a large celery juice (high sodium) and some chocolate, I was ready for bed...though I ended up asleep on the lounge for 4 hours waking up refreshed before stumbling into bed for another 3 hours.

Around 12:30pm I made a call to Patonga for a race update. It was disappointing to hear Lawrence had pulled out at CP5 but what an achievement with virtually no specific race training! I was able to drive myself safely to Patonga (1hr) arriving before Blue Dog finished. I guess I'm hooked on these events as it brought a tear to my eye clapping Blue Dog over the line and then again when Jan arrived at 4:30pm finishing with a solid run along the beach. His race tactics of beer and vomiting somehow always work for him.

After all the hype over leeches I think Tugger was the only runner to get one after getting his kit off and wading in some place with a name like Dead Man's Waterhole.
It was great to hear at Patonga that a couple of the ladies are keen to give the 100km a shot next year.
With a strong crew including Dave Criniti and the King (Paul Arthur), Blue Dog (Wayne) was always a good bet to make the 100 miles. To the 4 of 12 who made the 100 miles! It's good to hear the King may be interested in this race.
No more explosive stretching for Dave Criniti...hope you can make a full recovery (back to your usual 200%!!!).

To Dave Byrnes and the devoted Terrigal Trotters volunteers, congratulations on getting every element of this race spot on in it's first year. I'm walking pretty normally again now, went for a light ride today and with the labour pains disappearing am already looking forward to next year.

It was an experience shared with amazing people which I'll always remember.

Rodney please email photos to thrax@aeturnusdominion.com
For Rodney and anyone else who expressed an interest, the heavy metal band I play guitar in is at http://www.aeturnusdominion.com and our first CD "Semper Tyranis" is also freely available at http://www.mp3.com.au/aeturnusdominion

[plu]

What a top 1st post. Congratulations Thrax.

Plu

[Uncle Dave]

oops, double post. Sorry!

[Uncle Dave]

The race for second place

With race winner Dave Waugh in a different class to the rest of the field, it was the race for second place which I, as a part of "Team Dog", will remember as the most exciting and inspirational story to emerge from this race.

Reflecting on my crewing experience on this race reminded me of the womens' Olympic Triathlon in Athens, 2004. I had mixed emotions watching Austrian Kate Allen run down Lorretta Harrop in the dying stages.

Part of me wanted the Aussie Harrop to win, in what would have been a fairytale tribute to her late brother Luke.

Part of me wanted Allen chase her down, because there's nothing like a come-from-behind victory.

It was a similar story as I watched two of my great mates - Wayne "Bluedog" Gregory, and Paul "The Crocodile Hunter" Every - vie for second place in the inaugural Great North Walk 100 miler on the weekend.

Checkpoint 4 (100k): The first big move:

With Paul Every, Jan Hermann, Ray James and Blue Dog all arriving at Yarramalong in quick succession, it was anybody's guess as to who would take it out. Jan & Paul had the experience, but Blue Dog has been hitting a purple patch lately and motivation was high as he charged out of the checkpoint while the others were still chowing down.

Unfortunately navigational mistakes by Blue Dog, Jan & Paul, saw them all together again, and behind Ray as they passed Team Dog at the next road crossing an hour or so later.

Not long after that, Blue Dog made another concerted effort to break away throughout the night, and with the assistance of super-pacer Spud, reached and departed Checkpoint 6 at 9.02 am, with 'only' 24km to go.

Anticipating Jan would arrive next (and discounting Paul from calculations altogether at this stage after hearing word that Ray had found him asleep on the side of the road somewhere before checkpoint 5), I was extremely surprised to see Mr Every arrive almost exactly an hour later, looking very refreshed after his roadside nap. We (The King, Bernie G and I) actually saw him from the car about 50m from the checkpoint, as we were driving out, and he was arriving.

I had an inkling then that the race for second was not over, and I later found out that Paul didn't either. He later told me his first question on arrival was along the lines of "how far is Wayne ahead?". Upon hearing of the hour deficit, he responded "it's going to be a close one", and raced out of the checkpoint within about 5 minutes after a very quick refuelling.

I consider myself extremely lucky to have seen the exact moment that second place changed hands. Team Dog actually asked permission at the gate of the rubbish disposal centre near Patonga to enter their grounds so we could jump over their back fence as it backed onto the Great North Walk. The guy at the gate was pretty relucant to let us do so, but Bernie G battered her eyelids a few times, and naturally
the bloke was powerless to her charms, and let us through! :)

The single track became fire trail here with about 8k to go, and as Bernie G readied her camera to capture Blue Dog emerging from the bush, who should appear behind him from out of nowhere; none other than Paul "The Crocodile Hunter" Every himself; with the 1 hour deficit evaporated within the space of a gruelling 16k.

I urged Blue Dog to go with Paul, but he'd tried everything he could, and both ended up deserved podium finishers, with Paul 17 minutes up by the end.

Chess on legs

Ultra running has often been described as 'chess on legs', and what a game that was between two great opponents.

It was an incredibly gutsy move for Wayne to make his first break in the early hours of Sunday morning, in darkness, after having run 100k (more than he'd ever run before!!!!), and with 60k still remaining, against much more experienced opponents.

For him to break away again from the same opponents after his wrong turn forced him back into the pack (which must have been incredibly demoralising in the early hours of Sunday morning) is further testiment to his steely resolve.

...and equally gutsy and also admirably calculated was Paul's post-nap comeback after having been overtaken by Jan and caught by Ray, and acquiring a deficit of more than an hour. For him to arrive at checkpoint 9 with 24k to go, and an hour deficit, after already having run for nearly 150k overnight and over 27 hours, and immediately calculate the pace required to catch Wayne, given his own estimation of Waygne's pace; and then to execute the plan to perfection is absolutely incredible.

Well done boys!

A very proud,

Uncle Dave

[Twopennys]

Fantastic reports all - Unc you nailed it!

Diane, what's the chance of getting Paul to scribble a few words for you to post?

Cheers, Scott

[Hermie]

Thrax

Terrific report mate.
will email that photo shortly.Hope it turns out.

[Whippet Man]

Max asked:

quote:

---

Just wanted to know what everyone thought was the toughest part of the course?

---

Max I only entered the 100 km but for me the toughest part of my 21+hrs was the last 12 km of bitumen. I would have preferred to have gone back up to one of the towers than go through that soul destroying stretch of road.

Great reports, guys. Thrax, welcome aboard. Hope to see you out there next time. Spud, you'll be well prepped for your own assault on the course next year. Dave, good to hear the crew perspective. Herm, I thought my maths was bad out there but man, you've got to eat more food. Eagle, big effort. I DNFed my first 100 at 137 km on a much easier course and it just made me hungrier the next year. Yours was an awesome effort and I'll long remember seeing you sitting patiently at the finish waiting for the Dog to come in. They were THE worst blisters I have ever seen.

I've got a few pics to add too, when I'm not so tired.

Oh, and Tim managed to find some leeches too, without having to wade through any swamps. :D

[kincho]

Hi all,

Great reading the race reports thus far, as they all re-create the feeling of the day...
Congratulations to everyone who participated, whether they finished or not, as it was truly a tough day at the office, and just to be there and run was a great effort.
I am not up to posting a full report at this stage, but I really enjoyed my first attempt at a race over 45km.Some snapshots from the day include:
The atmosphere before the start was surreal, with the sun rising and a dawning for me of the reality of running for longer than I had ever before (more than my highest weekly mileage).
Then the start was an anticlimax as i forgot to start my watch, but was happy to amble along at the back of the pack.
The first section was tough running, with a lot of steep uphill and I was certainly amazed to see Paul Every at the top of the communication tower with a leaking bladder.During this stage I learnt how difficult it was to estimate pace and ETAs, especially running on the technical single bush track.The views were magnificent in all directions whether out to sea, lake or vineyard, and thankfully the temp was not too hot early on. (I shudder to think, if the temps were like the middle of last week in Sydney in the 30s )
The first CP was a welcome sight and my thoughtful wife had brought coffee and a custard tart, which were yummy...
The next section was under-estimated by me and it turned out a lot harder than I expected.This was not helped by running out of water with 8 km to go and getting a little confused as to where the trail went on the ridge line. I think also that this was the beginning on a slow carb depletion that was to manifest in the final 6 km or so. Nevertheless the transitions from the ridges to the valleys were dramatic and beautiful and the breeze was still cooling even on the road run into CP2.
Here I greedily rehydrated as I was aware of being behind in the fluid department (in the end for the 100ks I drank around 15L of fluid and that was not enough as I weighed myself the next day and was 2kg underweight), as well staying out of the sun was important along with the lifesaving ice in the bladder.
The third section started with some difficulty getting the legs to turn over, but did get some running on the flat before the climb up to yet another communications tower. This was a nasty one and certainly it was energy sapping.The run along the top with its undulations was OK, with again fantastic views and some wildlife (a few goannas). I caught up to Ray and Wayne and we all headed down to the water stop on the Watagan Ck Rd (this was a godsend and completely necessary-thank you Dave!!).It was strange how I seemed to run with different people sometimes losing them and at other times going past, only to be caught at the next checkpoint. The climb up to Mt Warrawalong was long and tortuous and finding my own rhythm went out into my own headspace. I found this a most enjoyable experience, but ironic in a way as the pleasure and pain were closely intertwined(I can only imagine what this would have felt like for the 100milers..), yet on some of these difficult sections I was able to focus trancelike into the moment, which at times was like a strong connection to everything around me. As the light faded I was running through tunnels of trees and if I stopped there was nothing, only the wind and my pulse beating.
I really enjoyed the solitude of the experience in this part of the race as the sun was setting and being alone in the bush intensified this for me.
I eventually found Jan crashing through the bush having taken a wrong turn (something that everyone I think probably did ) and we ran towards CP3, arriving at around 7.35pm.I felt good here and was bouyed by the realisation that my race would be over in another 22kms. When I left with Paul it was dark and then had a very different experience for me of 'running' through the bush at night.The fireflies were out in force (no we weren't hallucinating...) and the sounds change as the nightlife came out to play.
Very soon Jan caught us and just before the turn onto the firetrail at the top of the climb out of the Basin, we came across Rodney and another runner (I'm sorry that I can't remember your name) after they had realised that they had taken a wrong turn, which was bad luck.
We continued running now down firetrail in the moonlight(didn't need the torches much here), until the bush track down to the cedar brush trail head. By the time we got down here I was getting more tired, and very soon my delusions of a fast finish for the 100ks were dashed as the legs had decided to stop working. I think I was a bit hypoglycaemic with about 6k to go so I was eating all my available carbs and putting on my thermal top. this last section seemed an eternity as Paul pulled away jogging onwards and I entered my own world again, trying to focus on the moment and ignore the negative thoughts.
Eventually the lights of Yarramalong came into view and there was one of the organisers waving his magic lantern at the finish for me. As well my wife was there to share the moment which was great as she had been so supportive of my running.
In all I finished in 18:20mins or so, and given the nature of the course was very pleased.
I learnt a lot about my own reserves of mental and physical strength, for which I am grateful to have experienced (I certainly enjoyed the comerarderie as well as the spirituality of the whole day ). I have some food for thought about fluids and food intake and now understand how difficult it can be. I would love to go the whole hog and run the 100miles, but this will come in time.
Thank you to all the helpers, organisers and to Dave Byrnes for putting on such an awesome event, top marks to you all for the huge effort.
Thank you to the other runners for sharing an amazing day in the sun, one which I hope to repeat...

cheers Matt
Matt

[Dave Byrnes]

G'day folks,

The full results of the GNW100s are now available here .

Regards,

Dave.

[Rudolf]

I was checking the time spend at the checkpoint
by runners. It looks there is an 2 hour error for Paul Every at the last checkpoint propably in arriving time ???

[Diane]

Hi Scott - I'm working on Paul to get him to pen something (which will hopefully be done even before he finishes his Coast to Kosci report!! :) :D - but that's another story altogether)

We are heading off tomorrow morning for a bit of a break doing a 3 day cycling trip up to Katoomba and back so I will try and harrass him at our evening stops if not before.

[Kelvin]

Great performances by all out there, the whole event sounds like an epic, certainly makes me wish i could have been there :D .

Kelvin
(On reading all the tales of this event has to make me wonder whether i should do Coast to Kosci now :rolleyes: , just makes you want to go out and just do it !)

[Blue Dog]

DogBlog:-

Prelude

As an ultra novice, when deciding to attempt this event I assumed it was a logical decision to learn from and surround myself with the best qualified people that were willing to lend a hand, so …….

In early September, the inimitable Mister G rang me with a view to a three-day reconnaissance of the course on the October long weekend, which I accepted without hesitation. Accompanied by our better halves Skizzik and Bernie G as crew we ran sections 1, 3 & 7. Unfortunately due to subsequent illness, Mister G did not enter the event. <_<

Shortly thereafter the Eagle, also an ultra novice, indicated his desire to enter and if possible, complete the event together. We conferred and broke it down and agreed it was achievable, using Fitzroy Falls, the Brindabella Classic and a recon’ of sections 4 and 5 of the course (The Basin - Yarramalong Valley - Somersby) as ‘test runs’ for our fitness and newly purchased ultra gear; backpacks, headlamps, etc.

Finally, when Uncle Dave, Spud, Paul S. Arthur and Firehorse approached me with offers of crewing and pacing, on each occasion I accepted immediately, ringing them frequently thereafter to remind them of their generosity. Accompanied by the very special Bernie G, ‘Team Dog’ was born. :P

Dinner

The pre-race dinner on Fri evening was a nice affair, with much discussion about the course and plenty of friendly banter, for which ‘Team Dog’ copped its fair share.

As Eagle and I were among less than a handful of runners to actually have a crew, and the only pair to have a crew comprising more than one person, we raised a few eyebrows.

Comments ranged from “Cripes Blue Dog, you’ve got it all; running companion, transport driver, masseuse, physiotherapist, tactician, psychologist…. are the tarot-card reader & the aboriginal tracker back at the motel?” to “shit, he’s got more talent in his support crew than is in the whole race!” Ha ha, very funny guys. :D

The Race

6:00a.m. saw all of us start the event at Teralba on the northern-most tip of Lake Macquarie, directly inland from the city of Newcastle. The sun had just risen on what promised to be a glorious day.

We headed generally west for about 15km, the first half or so of this on sealed road. Eagle and I ran together, and got to know a few other runners who couldn’t make the pre race dinner. Everything we had heard about ultra runners was quickly realised; there is an open willingness to share any and all resources and to assist each other if possible. We left the bitumen, following the Great North Walk through some rolling hills, the surface being a mix of walking track, fire trails and dirt road.

From my previous run over this section, I did not recall some of these early hills being as quite as steep as they were; I was being very mindful of conserving energy, and there were a few climbs which got the blood pumping, although nothing too severe.

The steady rise in altitude provided some spectacular views; one ridge in particular having incredible vistas to both the north and south, with steep drop-offs on either side of the single-file track. Making their home on these very steep slopes were the grandest collection of black-boys/grass trees (Xanthorrhoea) I have seen; among several hundred, many had blackened and twisted trunks well over 10m in height with their grass ‘skirts’ at the top spanning over 5m in width. It crossed my mind that their size placed these specimens at over 500 years old, and here was I worried about surviving the next 30 hours or so!

Several km further on we exited the bush onto sealed road at Heaton’s Gap, one of several routes into the famous wine growing region of the Hunter Valley, and after another 600m had an opportunity to top up the water supply at the roadside diner. The pleasant easing into the race was over, as things were about to change dramatically.

Crossing Freemans Drive at the diner, we entered the Awaba State Forest, where the course immediately becomes horrendous, with a climb of 262m in altitude over the next 1.3km. For the uninitiated, that is 'quite steep', and serves as a warning of further nightmares to come.

After reaching the communication tower at the top, we trotted along 3km of dirt road to Heaton Look-Out with its amazing view of Lake Macquarie and the east coast, its panorama encompassing as far as the eye can see to the east, north and south.

Topping-up again at the very strategically located rainwater tank, we headed off again; from the lookout we plunged directly into the rainforest behind us, entering its unique moist, fresh and gloomy environment for the first time on a single-file walking track.

Thankfully markers (pink ribbons) had been placed along the more difficult-to-follow sections of the course, although this did not deter most of the field including myself from getting lost at some point. A single lapse in concentration, usually due to admiring a stunning rainforest scene, was enough to send most of us at some stage up a blind trail for several hundred metres or so, before having to back-track and reassess your location. Doh!

Over the next two hours or so we crossed several cool and rocky creek-beds amongst the shady rainforest, with a couple of testing climbs up through timbered slopes leading to more look-outs. The last of these climbs placed us on Bakers Rd at Macleans lookout and after another 2.5km of dirt road I arrived at Checkpoint 1 at the old Watagan Forestry HQ, about 9 minutes ahead of the Eagle. Four and a half hours and 28.6km into the event and we were both feeling fine.

Our excellent crew of Uncle Dave & Bernie G had everything in order; sunscreen, insect repellant, bodyglide, a bite to eat and drink, a top up of the food and drink supplies for the road, and 21 minutes later we headed off into section two. Words of advice from Uncle Dave were ringing in our ears as we left… “Don’t get sucked into running too hard on this next easier section.”

This was generally an easy downhill section, dropping a total of 365m in altitude over 23.9km. With only 3.7km of very enjoyable and easy running on walking track, the remainder of the section was all on dirt road, which at times I found a bit tiresome, there being not much to occupy the mind other than 'head down and keep pushing on.' Alternately, the Eagle seemed to thrive on these sections, and with his road marathon pedigree coming to the surface I struggled to maintain contact as we came into Checkpoint 2 at Congewai School. The Herrmannator, Jan Herrmann was leaving as we arrived. 7hrs 44mins, 52.5km, and still going well.

A 28 minute stop-over, and Eagle and I set off into the third section, accompanied by Paul Every who we had joined at CP2. Eagle and I agreed to take it very ‘cruisy’ where possible and conserve our energy; from my previous experience I knew it was the most physically demanding section of the course.

Paul soon went ahead of us along the dirt road before entering the walking track through rural farmland, and about 2km further on we were surprised to find him sitting down and having a ‘refresher’ break at a rainwater tank. As I was to find out, Paul knows what works for him.

Not long after passing Paul we entered timbered country and shortly thereafter commenced the killer climb up to the second communications tower on Cabans Rd. This ascends 317m in altitude over about 1.5km, and to make matters worse, I was really starting to struggle. Paul caught and passed us again here, and in testament to the difficulty of this climb, after reaching the summit and traveling only 200m or so along the ridgetop of Cabans Rd, I was very suddenly and very violently ill.

Each time I tried to commence walking, I would immediately throw up again. I estimate I regurgitated close to 1500ml of food and mainly fluid. At one stage I looked at Eagle, who was absolutely disgusted by this behaviour, and I thought “struth, he looks worse than I feel!”

Reframing this episode into a positive, I thought at least I wouldn’t be carrying as much weight now, so things should be easier. In truth, I believe I had been too concerned up until that point about maintaining my fluid intake, and had simply way over-done it. A packet of salt and vinegar chips to restock the sodium level, and within five minutes I was back in business and feeling better than ever.

We continued Past Flat Rock Lookout, where Kincho caught and passed us, before descending into a beautiful rural valley and crossing Watagan Creek. Here we again caught and passed a 'geographically challenged' Kincho before he joined us at the water drop shortly after Watagan Creek Road. The Herrmannator was also loitering in the vicinity of this water drop, which marks the beginning of another very steep climb of 249m in altitude over approx. 1.4km.

Jan & Kincho went ahead of us again during this climb, and after reaching the top and traversing a few more km of steady but less severe ascent, Eagle and I crossed over the highest part of the course at 547m of altitude.

Eagle was becoming a bit tetchy at this point, with concerns about making it to CP3 at The Basin before nightfall, as we did not have our headlamps with us. I asked him to show faith in the Dog and sure enough we pushed on quite hard for an hour or so before meeting a concerned Uncle Dave heading out onto the course with torches about 400m from the checkpoint. Eagle, it was never in doubt. 13hrs 49min, 81.7km.

Ian Wright, Paul Every, Kincho and The Herrmannator were all at CP3 as we pulled in. We enjoyed a long 38min stopover, with Paul and Kincho departing first, shortly followed by Jan Hermann. Disappointingly, Ian Wright withdrew from the event at this stage with health issues. (Hope you are recovering well IDW).

We learn that barring a major mishap, Dave Waugh has got the race sewn up at this early stage, even allowing for his 90min 'detour' into The Basin. He has left CP3 almost 2.5hrs ahead of the second placed runner. Mr G and I took that same detour/wrong turn as Dave a few weeks back on our recon’ trip, and came into The Basin from the other direction scratched, bleeding, and barely alive, off an ill-defined trail that was only fit for small marsupials. I recall trying to free my foot from a wait-a-while vine for the umpteenth time, and as I angrily kicked free I connected flush with a soccer-ball sized boulder, breaking my toe. Dave Waugh proves how selfless he is by back-tracking about 500m out of his way to place a sign on the offending trail junction which reads ‘>>>Not This Way>>>.'

The downside for Team Dog is that Eagle is blistering badly and can’t remove his shoes or socks, they are stuck to his feet. He mentions withdrawing, but I do not acknowledge his comment as it is not an option. I’m not travelling too well either, beginning to shiver and shake and really don’t know what I want to do at this checkpoint; change clothes, eat drink, or none of the above. IDW offers me a salt tablet, and with a cold coca cola, followed by a Red Bull, a banana, a Sustagen and a change from sleeveless vest into a CR Tri-top, within 15 minutes I undergo a miraculous physical transformation. C'mon Eagle, I feel great. Lemme at ‘em.

We set off into the dark into section four, the night sky overhead has a myriad of stars and a bright 3/4 moon, while in the air around us the fireflies are putting on a spectacular after-sunset show. Amongst this beauty Eagle again mentions the bad state of his feet and I reply this time and offer him some Ibuprofen or Panadeine, and urge him to press on. Displaying tremendous courage, he refuses the painkillers, and I admire his toughness. I strongly wish for him at the very least to complete this next section to the 100km point, if not the whole journey.

Heading out of The Basin, after about 4km we come across Thrax and Lawrence Mead heading the opposite way, they are en route to The Basin, having also found an 'alternative route' to the official course. We learn later that Louis de Fly has also been sucked into the vortex of The Basin and hopelessly lost to the point of withdrawing. I’m not sure why, but Podsport also becomes a scratching at this point. It's a bit like the Devil's Triangle.

A little while later Eagle more than proves his value by making a couple of critical navigational decisions at two stages where I was totally perplexed; I simply did not recognize these parts of the course. The Eagle is persistent in his belief, and as we reach a familiar part of the course at Walkers Rest I congratulate him heartily on some cool and critical thinking. ;)

We are especially aware that the next turn-off is very easy to miss, we sailed straight past it a few weeks back during our day-time practice run, and about 1km down the road came to a dead-end. At this dead-end is a very spooky, trashed and deserted two-storey large bush house in a bad state of disrepair. It's in the middle of nowhere, and the place just feels bad. It is straight out of 'The Blair Witch Project,' and we have less than zero desire to be there at night-time. We could not even laugh about other runners perhaps finding it; you just would not wish it upon them.

We ensure we make the correct turn-off, and remember the natural beauty the course offers over the next few km, as we descend into a valley leading to the Cedar Brush Trackhead. Our previous visit revealed the lush richness of the flora here; the many bangalow palms and ferns crowding the picturesque waterfalls and bubbling cascades, the large rockfaces and boulders covered in an array of soft and spongy vibrant green mosses, lichens and birds-nest ferns. Of particular interest to myself is the many varieties of native orchids growing in this section that cling to the rockfaces and adorn the various tree-trunks, or simply hang from the many branches up above. Some are in full flower and are simply outstanding, and at times their intermittently released fragrances heavily permeate the sweet forest air.

Of course its night-time now, and I am absolutely exhilarated to be running through the silent bush with the stars visible now and then above the forest canopy. Our headlamps and torches pierce the darkness to reveal the trail ahead, and there is nowhere else I would rather be at this time. Perhaps the lack of vision heightens the other senses, but I am acutely tuned in to the forest and yet very relaxed and peaceful in what I am doing. On a few occasions I hear large animals not far off the track, and I assume them to be wombats, wild pigs or perhaps deer, one of which I spotted.

We sadly departed this fantasy-land via stepping stones across a small stream, where the trail runs along the edge of a farm, with the farmhouse some 300 metres to the right. Stepping over a stile at the Cedar Brush Trackhead, we alight onto Brush Creek Rd.

Eagle and I know it’s 11.1km along dirt and bitumen roads to CP4 at Yarramalong Valley. The whole way is past small farms and horse agistment, breeding and training properties. In covering this distance we manage to wake up every farm-dog along the way, several of which are fiercely protective, which motivates us to keep moving.

We also keep an eye out for the specially trained attack-goats we met on our previous run, and further along as I watch Eagle fending off yet another dog with his Princeton Tech Yukon HL headlamp, I am galloped at from the darkness behind by what is obviously a security-horseon patrol. Cripes, let’s get to Yarramalong. :)

We arrived at CP4 to a lovely round of applause from the assembled crowd of Terrigal Trotters and support crew, accompanied by the thought that should disaster befall us from here onwards, that at least, under the race rules, our finish would be recorded in the 100km event.

18.5 hours, 103.7km. I’m feeling great. Eagle has some issues and has diplomatically informed me that he wants me to depart the checkpoint with my pacer ‘Spud’ Murphy before he himself will depart. In fact he insists that he will only continue on under such an agreement, as he feels he has been slowing me down over the last section or so. We had discussed all such foreseeable scenarios prior to the race, and after Eagle assured me he would be okay on his own, I agreed with his proposal.

I had in fact been starting to think tactically over the last hour or so, and as I observed Paul Every and The Herrmannator at the checkpoint, I felt I was right in this race for 2nd place. Still being 'early' in the event, I kept telling myself to be conservative, as there was still 70km to go, and I have already gone 45km further than I’ve ever raced before.

Uncle Dave must have read my mind, as he sidled up and whispered “it would be a good opportunity for you to get a jump on these guys.” I needed no further urging, asking my pacer Spud if he was ready to roll. We tried to make an inconspicuous departure from the checkpoint, and as soon as we hit the road I urged Spud to help me put a gap into the guys behind us.

We pushed reasonably hard up the long steady climb of Bumble Hill, and were really steaming along on a steep downhill stretch when we were confronted by a locked gate onto private property. Damn! We’d missed a turn off. :angry:

As it worked out, we had only travelled about an extra 700m or so past the turn-off, but my quads certainly protested at the sharp climb back up, and nearing the top we could see lights heading our way. Unbelievably, Paul & Jan had also missed the turn-off. I briefly considered turning off our lights and hiding off the track and letting them go past, but the damn conscience kicked in and we all corrected our mistake together. I would have to wait for another opportunity.

In a short while we could make out a light up ahead of us; the Eagle had stuck to the course unerringly, and passed us all. I was so proud of him!

We all made our way through some slushy sections of trail and easily found the next turn which was directly underneath the 20-gazillion volt power lines; I was worried about missing this turn also, as you cannot see the power lines stretched across the valley at night-time. There was no need for concern however, as they were buzzing away loudly in the silence of the night, sounding like a hundred bee swarms. Ah, the serenity.

A short climb, along a few km of road, alongside some rural holdings, and then a nasty descent down to Dead Horse Creek saw us all stick pretty much together, except for Eagle who was really showing some guts but had unfotunately dropped off the pace. Knowing what lay ahead, I was mentally prepared for the energy sapping climb back up the opposite valley wall from the creek; it’s 168m in altitude in just over 1km and as we progressed through it I could sense that it was taxing Paul & Jan. Spud just kept pulling me along.

Along Tooheys Rd at the top of this climb Spud and I left Paul & Jan behind us; they did not appear to be feeling strong; however I was feeling quite good, still really enjoying the night running, and after 25 years as a shift-worker, quite within my element and very alert.

Descending down into the Ourimbah Creek crossing helped trash the quads just that little bit more, and we cruised along while attempting to conserve energy for another horror climb which lay ahead after another 5km or so.

This climb is only 126m in altitude over 0.9km, but you really do not need it after having completed 125km. Like each climb on the course, the footing is ‘dodgy’ at best, no two consecutive steps are the same height or distance apart, and the surface is more often than not either rock-strewn or finely graveled, which offers little traction.

Up and over this hill and into another descent leading to a creek, this time the downhill was not as severe and quite ‘runable’, and Spud and I shared the exhilaration of dawn in the bush. Suddenly the inky black sky had a tinge of pre-dawn grey. One bird gave its ‘wake-up’ call, then another, and within no more than 3 or 4 minutes, the pre-dawn was absolutely alive with birdsong of a thousand varieties. It is an awesome experience I will never forget, and leads one to think deeply on the importance of preservation of tracts of natural bushland and its accompanying bio-diversity.

This natural high was rudely interrupted by the physical requirements of yet another climb, 164m up over 1.1km. Skirting farm acreages, a further 3km brought us to CP5 at Somersby School. 24hrs 12 mins and 131.9km. Unbelievably, apart from the expected muscular fatigue, The Dog is feeling great. I think I’m going to make it. With 39.4km to go, that’s less than a marathon. Woo-hoo! Go the Dog!

Change the shoes and the shirt, and refuel the road supplies. By now I know what works for me nutritionally and what doesn’t, and 11mins later Spud and I are leaving CP5 for the short 14km stretch to the final checkpoint at Girrakool. This section is almost totally dirt, shellgrit and bitumen roads. There is not much natural beauty to distract the mind from the physical task, and frankly, I found it very boring and was pleased to reach CP6 at Girrakool. 26 hrs 48 mins, 146.8km, and there is no dropping out now.

At Girrakool I only find Bernie G. The rest of the crew has departed in our support vehicle in an attempt to get Eagle back into the event. He has phoned from the 132 km point at Somersby and has decided to withdraw. I later learn it was an interesting and lively discussion when Uncle Dave arrived to ‘coerce’ him into continuing.

I ask Bernie G for my supplies for the final 24.5km. She hasn’t got most of what I want – umm, well, it’s umm, ... in the back of the support vehicle. It's a bit of a body-blow, I can’t speak, I just briefly ponder how funny little things happen at the most inopportune times.

I grab what’s available and set out with Spud into the last section. I know there is a killer climb ahead over Scopas Peak, and two steep ravines to crawl down into and up out of. From the way I am feeling, I am certain that will take just about all I have left. I am very pleased to be coming second. In fact I am amazed.

Spud is terrific. He just keeps going about 20m ahead of me and dragging me through. No negotiation, just follow me. We are not doing much running by this stage, even on the few sections where the course permits it.

I calculate I have covered about 5 to 6km of the final section when I get a phone call from Bernie G, telling me that Paul Every has reached CP6. It doesn’t take me long to realise that he has been absolutely flying along over the last few hours. I had heard he lay down and slept for a while at Ourimbah on the side of the road. Uncle Dave warns me not to discount him as he can put in a huge finish. I’m trying to do the maths and figure if he can make up the deficit, and my considerations tell me that I really don’t believe he can. I underestimate how slow my own progress is at this stage, and it proves later to be a severe error in judgement.

Continuing along, Spud turns and shakes my hand at the 160km point, and I translate his Irish brogue into something like “congrashoolayshents ent gootonyer myte, dats a hundret myells, yer fust hundret, unreel” and we keep walking. Nice.

Shortly after, at nearly 163.5 km, I am really pleased to have Scopas Peak, the Myron Brook crossing and another descent behind us. I'm now aware that I am really seriously beginning to struggle so I just attempt to blinker myself and focus on pushing on.

With about 8km or less to go, up ahead I can see the crew have stopped at the side of the course to lend some support, and as I look up the slope to see Bernie G snapping a picture, Paul Every emerges from the trail behind us. To me, it seems like he is running at 10km race pace; it is very impressive, and I’m in awe. I had already reached the conclusion that if anyone passed me – (a) they deserve it, and (b) I would not be able to respond. Bernie has the exact moment captured in a photo.

I then mentally added - © I wish I had not lent Paul my spare Camelback bladder at CP1 after he had split his open beyond repair. Damn stupid ultra camaraderie!

At around 165km, just over 6km from the finish, for the first time in the event I contemplate stopping for a rest. Its hot, we are in a depression with no breeze, the sun feels merciless, and there is no shade on this fire-trail from hell. If I sit down, it could be for two minutes, two hours, or I could just go to sleep. Each kilometre seems endless.

Before vocalising this desire to rest, I invert the equation, and ask myself "what would I say to someone who stopped at this point in the event?" Suffice to say, my answer provided me with enough motivation to keep moving. On top of this, I didn't know where or how The Herrmannator was going behind us, and I thought how really tragic it would be to be pushed totally off the podium in the very last stages of the race.

Crossing Patonga Drive proved to be a godsend; I was finally off that bloody firetrail, and knowing that it is less than 4km to go, it seems like nothing. Another km or so, and as we approached the Warrah Trig station I took a few good hard looks behind me along the long straight stretch of dirt road to see if anyone was coming from behind to spoil the party, and I was pleased to see the road was totally clear.

After several hundred metres of walking track and firetrail, we zig-zagged down the final 900m descent of the headland on the walking track down to sea level, and crossed the tidal creek at Patonga Beach. Straight through the boat-ramp car-park, and back down onto the beach proper, and about 400m ahead I could see the finish!

In a very gracious gesture, Spud broke away to the side and told me to finish on my own.

The finish was very moving, a few tears rolled out, and the wonderful Terrigal Trotters and assembled friends at the finish line were very generous and sincere in their applause.

A kiss from Bernie G was the icing on the cake, the best reward I could ask for.

I had entered and completed my first ‘big’ 100 on an unbelievably tough course. I didn’t dnf, I made it. I didn’t let anyone down, and I am astounded that I finished in the top three. Incredible! Unreal! I am just so happy!!!

As George S. Patton said - “Accept the challenges so that you can feel the exhilaration of victory.”

The victory is in conquering oneself.

Cheers, Blue Dog. B)

P.S. I will leave the many thanks I must give for another time. At present, to Dave Byrnes and the Terrigal Trotters, thankyou all so very much.

[Virtual]

Gulp. That was fantastic. Makes me want to do it.

[Mister G]

The Herrmannator's photos are here.

[Podsport]

My humble story will pale in comparison to those that have preceded. Blue Dog, you certainly deserve all that you have achieved, and your story was very special!

My adventure started many months ago when I, for some strange reason, thought I could enter the GNW100. A very inexperienced ultra runner, I had only completed the 6 foot track and the GC100 this year. I knew that this course was very challenging and had no idea how I should train.

I now have some of those answers. One doesn't know what is possible until one has a go!!

I must admit that during my flight down from Townsville, I felt a bit frightened, knowing that I would be amoungst some the finest ultra runners in the country. I was still, in my head anyway, a young wannabe.

I was more that surprised to find everybody so very supportive, friendly and helpful. It was no doubt a relief to put my head down for the night before the race, having shared dinner with such fine people who welcomed me into the ultra world with such open arms and warmth. Thanks to you all!!

I actually had a good nights sleep, which is not normal to me before an event. Most of my nerves had passed, and I just simply wanted the day to start.

The early pace and terrain was great. Running with Bluedog and Eagle got me into a good run/walk regime that I no doubt needed early on. I thoroughly enjoyed that first stage, with its constantly varying terrain and views. The last steep climb to the communication tower was fabulous. At many times during this stage, I simply took everything in and smiled to myself, known that I was in the bush, running with a bunch of unbelievable people, and I was having a ball!! this is what trail running is all about.

I found the single trail from the water tank, down thru the many cliffs and creeks, especially amazing. The first CP came too quickly!!! i was really enjoying the trails. I tweaked a right ankle some after leaving CP1 and this resulted in my running a little less and trying to move the pressure to a different area of my foot. This quickly led to some pressure areas in my right shoe. A quick stop and some running repairs seemed to fixed the problems.

Unfortunaltey, the 6 km along the road into CP2 flared up the hot spots and no sooner had I recified them again, the left foot started to play up. They felt ok, but a bit tender coming out of CP2. The climb out of CP2 to the second communication tower was steep but uneventful. The problems resurfaced once I started to run along the flatter ridge track. I again stopped with the intention of draining the huge blister on my left 5th toe, but was shocked to find both my feet extremely swollen!!! They was no fewer than 16 blisters and the entire forefoot areas were red and tender. I struggled to put my shoes back on. I did not run again this day.....

I hobbled for what seemed to be years thru this section. It wasn't until Rodney came from behind, that I momentarily forgot my pain. We travelled down the step decent to the midpoint of the stage and crossed the Watagan creek to the drink stop. I at this point questioned my ability to continue for the first time. It sounds stupid but my feet felt like they were walking on hot coals with every step. I reasoned to my self that I only had 14km to CP3 and then not to far to CP4 and 100km. I would be happy to finish there, so I thought!!

I let Rodney go ahead, well I really had no choice!!! I soon started the steep climb and found my self again alone and in much pain. This next 14km would take in some 4.5 hours to complete........

Every single step was painful. I was so focussed to getting to CP3 that I took a wrong turn. As I kept seeing track markers, I kept moving forward. It wasn't until a sign told me I was near Walkers Rest, that I realised that I had walked some distance up the wrong track. I again had to reason with myself: Option 1/ Go on to CP4 (13km) and get disqualified. Option 2/ Turn around, descend the bloody steep track back to the bottom of the valley with very sore feet, just to check in at CP3.

I headed back. This descent proved my complete undoing. My already trashed feet became a real mess!!! It was completely rubbed in my face when all the other steller completitors came toward me, after visting CP3. They told me it was half an hour away (2.7km). It simply took me 70 mins. Thats how slow I was going over the rough terrain with my feet.

I finally arrived at CP3 in 16.5 hours and called it quits. It is hard to sit at a check point watching others leave. My head was fine, my body was fine. My feet were terrible.

Thanks to all the other supportive entrants who made my first foray into ultra trail running so special. It was not my day.

Thanks to Dave Byrnes who put on a special race. He had the balls to hold a race on the most bitching trails in OZ, well done!! (P.S, thanks for letting me sleep in your car, and taking me to Patonga)

Just to let you know how my feet are..... As a Podiatrist myself, I has the luxury of my boss take care of them today. I have absolutely no skin on my left little toe. My right little toe is made up of 2 blisters. Huge blisters under both my big toes and across my forefoot. Each heel has even bigger blisters. I hobbled around all day. Other than my feet, I feel damn fine. I so wish I could have finished at least the 100km...

i actually have no explaination why my feet becaome so swollen. I had run a 80km training run in Townsville heat only 4 weeks earlier. Same shoes, same socks. Included a long climb and decent to Mt Stuart (600m). I had no problems, not even a hot spot. I have no answers.

It is hard sitting here reading all the stories of everybody's day(s). I just feel a could have gone on....then I look at my feet!!! I know I could not.

Thanks for a great day and night. See you next year!!!! :D

[Twopennys]

Great report blue dog - well done!

Cheers, 2P

[JoggerK]

Although the 4 finishers (and other non-finishers) of the 100 mile event are all worthy of high praise for this very difficult run, 3 of them have long and illustrious backgrounds in ultra running, the exception being Blue Dog the ultra newbie.

I know he has received some good coaching, done some hard training and came well prepared, but a hearty congrats from me. I envy you.

You absolutely killed it. "they took a clean-cut kid and turned him into a killer, that's what they did".

[Louie de Fly]

Hi all

Congratulations to blue dog and eagle on a fantastic effort, blue dog I saw you run at Fitzroy Falls and Brindabella and know from your times you did the hard work and you deserved a great finish thanks team dog for Friday night and for the time I spent with you at the start of the race
To all the others well done and see you at the start next year
For me I had a great weekend, I’ll finish the year as a pacer and crew member at the C2K, It’s been a great year for me and will have a good base for next year
Thanks dave and the terrigal trotters for your help and a fantastic course and great race
Could any runners who made a wrong turn let me know on this thread where it happened it will be handy for any new runners next year
Thanks Lou

[Horrie]

Awesome reports from all who have written them. It gives us mortals a great insight into pushing yourself into a void and somehow coming out of it. Wishing you all well in your recoveries.

[Aunty K]

Bluedog - that is just a beautiful story to read, I have a few tears myself. :)

Take care of yourself now.

AK

[plu]

Speechless again....I just love the way you evoke the environment you are in and the spirit of the event. Plu

[Sarge]

Well done Wayne.

[silver fox]

Blue Dog

without question the best race report I have ever read. I admired your laconic and understated recollection of in particular the final stages, fascinating reading and very typical of your good self. Most of all congratulations to you on an incredible achievement that only a veritable handful will attain.

Ray

We havent been in touch for a while, obviously steadily chugging away towards 100 marathons wasnt sufficiently stoking the fire in the belly! Likewise an incredible achievement from someone who has nothing to prove to anyone but himself and does so on such a regular basis. Awesome.

My congratulations to you both and to all that set out on the journey. I would say fronting at the start of one of these things is achievement in itself.

[Bernie G]

I was not going to post on this topic, but I thought I would share some of my thoughts related to crewing.

Firstly, when Blue Dog (my inspirational husband, Wayne) said he had entered the GNW100, I did make the statement “I am not crewing”. However, without any convincing I was signed up as a member of Team Dog.

Saturday morning - The Start
It was a hive of activity, people getting blood tests, collecting last minute race instructions etc. As they took off at the start, I got a lump in my throat. I knew how focused Blue Dog had been on this event, and I knew this was the start of his biggest physical and mental challenge to date, and an experience he would always cherish.

With the good company of Uncle Dave and Paul Arthur (The King), we developed a system at each checkpoint that seemed to work. Uncle Dave provided the knowledge and the strength of his experience to Blue Dog and Eagle, Paul kept them focussed and provided unmeasurable support. Paul’s navigational skills and knowledge of the area was unbelievable.

From 2nd to 3rd
The King directed me to the back of a rubbish tip. We jumped the fence to cheer Blue Dog home. Uncle Dave went for a walk to see if he could find them and Paul was getting pumped up so he went for a run. I sat on my own for about 15 minutes just thinking about Wayne, wondering where is was, how he was feeling, and once again astounded by his inner strength. Paul returned and we had a bit of chat, the suddenly Spud and Blue Dog emerged.

I grabbed the camera, focussed and captured the shot that changed the race, Paul Every emerging from the bush over Blue Dog’s shoulder. The King yelled “Paul’s coming”. I looked at Blue Dog and I knew he was in survival mode and focussed on the finish, he had nothing left to chase anyone down.

The Finish Line
We arrived and checked on the Eagle who was now looking a lot brighter; we had earlier dropped off at the finish line so he could lay down etc.

Standing at Patonga we cheered Paul Every home to a strong finish. I sat anxiously with my eyes fixed to the track waiting for Blue Dog and Spud to appear. Shortly after they were in sight, Spud soon departed leaving Blue Dog to finish 3rd. Blue Dog I am very proud of what you achieved, and happy we shared this experience together.

Eagle, it was a gutsy effort. What you achieved was amazing.

My tips for crewing

1.The team dynamics of the crew are essential. We had a great time, we worked well together. It is amazing what you talk about and the jokes you share when you haven’t slept for approximately 35 hours. Thanks guys.

2. It’s all about the runner. You forgot how tired you are, how hungry you may be, and even the fact that a shower would feel like heaven. When Blue Dog and Eagle arrived we asked “What can I get you….. is there anything you need….are you okay”?

I have added some photos.

http://www.coolrunning.com.au/gallery/album40

[Aunty K]

Good on you BernieG!!

The pics are fantastic! :D

C u soon, AK ;)

[Sarge]

Bernie,

You know what they say.......... "Behind every great man there is a great woman" I think in this case though you two walk side by side.

Love, Sarge.

[Blue Dog]

Podsport,

It was really a pleasure to meet you and the other competitors. We have all shared something very special and unique in its inaugural year.

I consider myself extremely fortunate that I did not have to deal with severe physical issues like yourself, Eagle and IDW.

I was there, I know how demanding it was, and you guys have my full admiration ... you are all such worthy and tough competitors, and no further explanations are required.

Reflecting back on the race, it is my sincerest desire to see this move forward and become a truly 'BIG' event.

Simply, it has it all ... proximity to a major city, an incredibly scenic, tough and unforgiving course, and the backing of a wonderful organisation in the Terrigal Trotters.

It's the GREAT North, a GREAT event, and GREAT things come from small beginnings.

Out on the course, a few of us talked about the huge surge of popularity in ultra-running, but it's really not that difficult to figure out.

While the general population continues its steady progress towards obesity, due to our affluent society and more availability of leisure time, there is also an unprecedented interest in health and fitness. It's a boom industry.

Not so many years ago, to run "A MARATHON!!!" elevated Mr/Ms Average to 'legend' status.

Perhaps incorrectly, but that is now a bit passe, people complete 3, 10, 20 or more marathons. Then human nature drives us on to "The Next Big Challenge."

We have a desire to kow how far we can go ... how far can we push it?

That's how we arrive at ultras, and people are coming in numbers.

Paul Every reinforced my own views on this when he suggested that mostof us would know at least 5 or 6 people capable of completing the Great North 100 kilometre event.

They just have to get to the starting line.

Dave Byrnes; mate, I hear that the race did not do well financially, however please do not let this one slip away.

The fact that people like myself got a bit lucky and finished is enough to attract a substantially larger field next year, even if you have to elevate the entry fee.

...and if you ever decided to run a team event in conjunction, you would, I suspect, be very hard pressed in keeping the number of runners below 100.

Dave and team: - thanks so much for staging such a special event; may it have a long and healthy life.

Cheers, Blue Dog. B)

[Blue Dog]

quote:

---

Originally posted by Aunty K:
Good on you BernieG!!

The pics are fantastic! :D

C u soon, AK ;)

---

Haha
her caption not mine!

Nice one. B)

[Eagle]

This will be my last post on this topic I need to move on. Oh yes great pictures Bernie G.

At 133k when Uncle Dave and Paul came up to me after I said I was puuling out Uncle Dave said the decision not to go on would haunt me for at leastthe next few days - how right is was. The sense of failure in not reaching the end is greater than I could have imagined. It is not so much making me depressed but making me annoyed that I made the decision that I did.

In regard to physical recovery - my eating and sleeping appear to be returning to normal. The blisters are healing faster and better than I thought and if the Sydney rain would clear I will go for a short walk around the Bay with Helen.

I want to move on and drop the baggage that is in my mind about the decsion to stop. Normally I post to give advice to others this post is about me analysing what I did wrong leading up to the decision to stop. Please forgive me for my public ramblings but I think I need to do it to close the chapter and this event and move on.

Maybe what I did mayalso help others not make the same mistakes.It seems to me they were all made after the 100k checkpoint while I was running alone, through the night and in the cool.

1.I left the Chechpoint with a bay of salt and vinegar chips in my hand. I arrived 7 hours later at the next checkpoint with them unopened.

2. During that 7 hours I ate nothing but one Power Bar.

3. During that 7 hours I would have not drank more than 750m of fluid. TOTAL LACK OF ATTENTION TO MY PERSONAL NEEDS THAT I KNEW SHOULD BE MEET BUT FOR SOM EREASON I DIDN'T DO WHAT I KNEW NEEDED TO BE DONE.

4. I arrived at Checkpoint 5 waering night clothes. Long top, cotton teashirt and reflective vest. I was feeling very hot but didn't take them off. I didn't occur to me to do so. I left the chechpoint and then ran about 3 k down a tar road in the full sun at about 8.30am and then wondered why I stopped and decided to withdraw. Still hadn't dawned on me what I was still wearing.

5. At Checkpoint 5 Paul offerred to fix my blisters and I said no. He then left me with thge equipment to do it myself. I put it in my bag with no further thought to what I should/could do.

6.When Uncle Dave and Paul come to collect me, Uncle Dave daid exactly what should be said - What do we need to do to fix/do to get you going". I said nothing could be done failing to remember my lack of food and drink. Bythis time I had removed 2 layers of clothing. ALL the things I needed to attempt to fix things were in the back of the car.

7. Dave was exactlt right I should have looked at what was the CAUSE of the reason why I had reached my decision. Had I looked at the cause I could have fixed them and thenmay have at least given me a chance to continue. I was stubborn and at the time made things difficult.

8. Some bizzare things were also in my mind. I had thought (with no justification) that 30 hours was a possible finishing time - when that became impossible then I seemed to consider I had 'failed' and so there was no point in continuing. Lesson : the only time to set is the latest cut off time anything faster is a bouus. The Dog was running this way and it propably helped him.

9. Even more bizzare was that I didn't want people to be waiting until late in the afternoon for me to drag myself in.

10. When I phoned to say I was not proceeding I understand Uncle Dave then registered as a pacer so that he could come with me. I think he said this to me but Iam not sure. I think I thought he was going to walk with me and I knew I could not allow that unless he was registered. Confusion everywhere.

Clearly wise and trational decisions are not made when you are exhausted and have neglected the most basic things that shoul dbe attended to. Lesson : Make sure you feul up regaulalry no matter what.

Final thanks to Blue Dog for letting me into Team Dog. Dod knows after our time together I am a person of few words so to him Idon't need to say more.

Bernie G (who I first meet at MTG about this last year - not only have we travelled around the Bay together a few times but I certainly would not have contemplated we would have travelled this last journey togther when we had our first casual chat)., also she looked after the crew car well.

Uncle Dave - you were a legend before I meet you. We had a great talk a few year ago up and back from the Kempsey marathon and I recall our one on one dinner in the motel before the marathon and our talk about the Hawaii Ironman. I hope we are still friends after our 'discussion'. I know we are and the thing that makes me mad is I know he gave the right advice at the right time I just couldn't follow it.

The King - a legend as well. I am in aware of his achievements and was amazed that I meet him on our recon run. Even more amazed that he stayed around all day for us. It was fantastic to have him around on the day itself. We have shared to mutual comments about about each which I will tresaure for ever. And I think he also managed to restrain himself when driving my crew car although that checky smiled suggested that he may have had some fun as well.

Thank you to the orgaisers - could have asked for more.

AND will I be back for this one - yes - others I suspect so.

Mr G you told me ultra's were challenging but fun and exciting are words that I would also add.

Well over and out. I am moving on from this one.

B)

[Spud]

quote:

---

...and if you ever decided to run a team event in conjunction, you would, I suspect, be very hard pressed in keeping the number of runners below 100.

---

I recall a couple of the volunteers at CP4 mentioned there might be a relay option next year. No doubt this would help inflate the number of entrants and alleviate any financial burden on the race director.

Great to have another 100 miler and so close to Sydney too. :D

[Eagle]

Definitely the last :
Back Blue Dogs comments. what a fantastic group of blokes the others runners are. Being an absolute novice I did feel out of place at the dinner and at start but no other runner treated me tat way. I was accpted but I knew I was in way dep over my head - they made me feel welcome. Thank you guys for allowing me in - I hope I am part of the way to being an ultra runner having got to 100k. I look forward to meeting you all again. B)

[Mister G]

Ray,

Firstly, you know I wondered about the wisdom of you making the jump from marathons to 100 milers with only Brindabella in between. In that light, I was bloody impressed by your run at the GNW100. I know you're not really after consolation, but I'm going to say it anyway.

Second, DNFs do suck. They can be one of the worst aches you'll ever experience. Not much you can do about that but start planning on 2006.

Third, I think you have to boil ultras down to just a couple of brief maxims, including a "DNF strategy", that will still be understandable even when your brain is barely functioning at 4am. For me, DNF is only a valid option when the alternative is to suffer some long term injury or damage to my health. All other excuses are just that- excuses, no matter how bad the pain is, nor how much puking goes on or whether tears are flowing, as they often do. Just get up and walk out of the aid station regardless.

In my worst passages "just keep walking" is the mantra. Any sort of progress is better than no progress, and eventually the good patch comes again.

Sounds simple, but when things are bad (as they often are in these things) "just keep walking" and "DNF is not an option" are tremendously hard. It took me a few mental battles and DNFs to develop this, but if I can manage to finish a 100 miler (Glasshouse 2005) whilst suffering Glandular Fever, it shows you what can be done...

Not meaning to big note myself- I say again, I have a hell of a lot of respect for you and what you've done. But it hopefully gives you some idea of what to do next time....

[Eagle]

Mr G :
You are right I needed some simple mantra's at the critical stage and I didn't. I will certainly remember what you have said. I agree I was not in a position of suffering and permaant damage just short short term pain and short time recovery time longet than expected and on that basis alone I should have at least pushed on a bit further.

It all comes from experince which I have none and your I respect greatly. Yes the plans for 2006 are being formed. I hope one day next year we could be at the start of one together. I will work on how to do it and you work on getting well enough to be there. B)

[RawAussieAthlete]

I'm feeling so soft now. I had no pain, just really tight, fatigued quads slowing me on the downhills. I could still climb hills and make reasonable time walking with short running stints on the flats. I needed someone to tell me to pull my nappy up at 100km.
My mantra's for next year may be the following:
- Dig deep.
- Pull up your nappy, mate.

[plu]

Hi all and particularly Ray.

The fact that you have debriefed "to us" is advice in itself and it is greately appreciated.

There are lessons for all runners of all abilities. No matter what level you are at a lot of people "pull" for what ever reason but at the time the reasons are real and cogent.

Every runner will learn from your experience. I for one really identified with points 9 and 10 that you make when I was in a state in Port Half Ironman.

Also if we runners take on board your comments about the psychology of a preconceived time, fuelling and the crucial role of a support crew we will all be better runners for it.

Thanks Ray

[bill thompson]

A couple of quick comments from a DNF'er(wimp).
What a great adventure that was. Always disappointing to pull out, especially when everything is still in working order (accept for being totally stuffed). The good thing is that the challenge is still out there for another year. Three cheers to all the people who made it happen. A great crowd of people and I wouldn't change a thing - keep it as an adventure race. What I really liked about the event was the fact that for 50% of the time I was never really certain that I was on course. I never really recovered from taking a wrong track just before the Basin (and going uphill of course) and wasting about 20 minutes - not a lot in the scheme of things but enough to blow my schedule and make a finish near impossible. I did a fair bit of swearing but nothing compared to Rodney. When we got back to where we went wrong I couldn't believe I had been so stupid. The map was right, the directions right, the sign right - just the brain not working. A steak and drinky went down well and I left the basin with renewed spirits but still well behind schedule. I found the long haul up the bitumen wielding a dog killing stick, tough going. David said he knocked this off in an hour. In hindsight, probably should have kept going after a good rest, but doubt I would have got far. Definitely need to be pretty fit for this one. Still hard to believe that Paul and Jan made it after seeing how they looked at Somersby. Wayne looked good at this point.
Some people asked how this course compares with some of the hard runs in the states. GNW has to be one of the more difficult hundreds around. There is no way I reckon I could finish in under 35 hours, so that doesn't leave much latitude for error. Comparisons are difficult but the closest run I have done is Massanutten in Virginia. 36 hours, lots of climbs, rough tracks, less roads, navigation easier and only 100 miles. Most of the other runs have difficulties augmented by altitude and/or bad weather. None have check points so far apart although you can go up to 8 hours between points at Hardrock.
After most runs I usually think - NEVER AGAIN. For some reason that wasn't my reaction and I would love to have another go. Thanks again to all and especially Dave. Hope to see you again.
This is no reflection on the owners of the Lakeside Caravan Park but that has to be the noisiest place on the planet. I lived 100m from the end of runway 1 at Heathrow and that was quiet in comparison.

[tim]

maybe they should get rid of the 100km option so there is only one finish line.

[Blue Dog]

Thanks for your report Bill.

You have answered a few questions that I had regarding how this course compares to others.

It's great to have people of your experience sharing their thoughts.

As for you Timmy, I hardly got to see you over the weekend. We'll have to catch up for a beer at another time.

Cheers, Blue Dog. B)

[Tugger]

Hi guys - just back from my little sightseeing visit to the big smoke. Just had to avoid the downhill stairs! Actually a good swim in Patonga did wonders to soothe the muscles and felt pretty good the day after.

Like everyone else - loved the adventure! Thanks to all the organisers and everyone at the aid stations. The event had such a groovy vibe and it was a pleasure to run with such a nice crowd. That's what makes these events such an experience - there can be no other possible reason... :) Can't wait till next year now and Rachel is really keen also (mum has confirmed babysitting duties!!)

Must say the scenery through there is amazing and a bushwalk is on the cards when the bub is old enough. Those caves were so cool.

I'm jealous of those doing the Coast to Kosi now - good luck to all and look forward to hearing all about it.

David

[Blue Dog]

Good one Tugger, glad you enjoyed your visit down here. There's still a few of us left in Sydney that aren't complete tossers.

As for the race, you were a bit unsocial ..... who said it was a sprint?

Well done mate.

Cheers, Blue Dog. B)

[tim]

quote:

---

Originally posted by Blue Dog:
As for you Timmy, I hardly got to see you over the weekend.

---

well you will have to start running slower.

[tim]

Some photos from the whippetman collection.

[Virtual]

nice pics. What's with the last one. What's that stuff on the bloke on the left..

[tim]

Some say pixie dust, others say his reflective vest was being rubbed away by his pack.