Wildheart Runners x Rocket Events Backyard Masterclass - Blair Atholl

 

This definitely deserves it's own post as although it wasn't a race, it was an event that for me turned out to be lots more about not just running.

For those of you who don't know, a backyard ultra is where you run 4.167 miles (6.706km) in a loop. You have to run this within the hour and the next yard starts at every o'clock. If you aren't in the starting corral or back for the whistle blowing, you're out. Some of team Scotland were going to be there, and so was Keith Russell. Keith set the Irish record at 89 yards. Over 3 and a half days of running which is mind blowing to me. I've met Keith virtually while interviewing for the run till you're done podcast, same with Mike Raffan who I've been co-hosting the podcast with since last November. I was also really looking forward to meeting Karen Nicol who is someone that's really inspired me within the running community. She has this infectious smile on the socials and I love her sharing practicing gratitude and mindset in the mornings. So it was always going to be more than just about the running for me this day.

I prepared my kit/food the night before as it was a 04:15 alarm to leave for just before 06:00. Blair Atholl is about an hour and a half from Glasgow, the briefing was at 07:45 (if you wanted to try for the 5 loops - I did) and the parking was a short walk away so I wanted to leave in plenty of time.

I woke before the alarm and actually felt OK. I'm very aware that on days like these, even social events, I throw up in the morning. Even though I know it's something I'll really enjoy, it happens. I chalk it down to overexcitement but it really needs addressed as it means much needed breakfast before big runs won't stay down, which is less than ideal. I went to the toilet, scrolled on the phone then randomly the sickness happens. Magic (said sarcastically).

I got my stuff together then headed up. Was a little unsure of where I was parking then spotted Windy Wilson's car. I'll follow him! We collected our stuff then walked up the drive for about 5-10 minutes to the start. We popped our stuff down, said our hello's then Mike spotted me first! We had a massive hug then the obligatory selfie, followed by a photo taken for us.

Lots of hello's, a picture with Keith (just as well Mike took it because I didn't take one on my phone!) and long over due hugs from pals that I've not seen in far too long.

Before we knew it, it was 08:00 and off we set. I was mindful of keeping up with the group on the first loop as I had no clue where we were going and I found the pace a bit quick. It slowed right down on the mile long hill! 120m (393ft) and I was happy it was going to be a decent elevation day as well as distance.

I wasn't really sure what goal I was setting. I doubted myself I'd manage 5 yards. I've not ran a distance this far since Falkirk ultra in February. March I'd ran a total of 53.1km (32.99 miles) and April I'd ran 60.2km (37.4 miles) total so understandably I was nervous and very aware of how much fitness I've lost. Also still in the very early days of the build back up so was anxious this would be too much for me. Just take each yard at a time. In between loops I got some pictures of pals and team Scotland together.

After the third yard I was getting sore. 18km in and I was determined to get my half marathon distance as I'd not done that distance for 2 months after having a 16 month streak of doing that distance on one of my long runs at least once a month. The 4th yard I found tough & Lynn was lovely enough to keep me company. We had a great chat on the loop but I'd decided this would be my last and I'd have a bagel in the sun while the group went and done the final yard. I took in the beautiful scenery going up the hill as it would be my last and made sure to include the castle Mike told us to look out for on the 3rd yard.

Back at camp and happy I'd completed 24km with time to spare. I'd said I wasn't going back out and Keith asked why? I said I was sore (I didn't really want to say 'because I don't want to and scared of what I'd be like in the aftermath of not doing this distance for over 2 months) to which he replied 'it's the last one, 50 minutes then you're done'. I had no comeback for this and huffily got the vest back on. By this point I was really sore and not happy about going back out. But you don't say no to someone that's done 89 hours of this format as that's a showing up if you did!

Lynn joined me again and Michaela had a lovely chat with us at the start of the loop! We caught a photo together before the hill then it was just a case of finishing.

When Lynn and I came back to camp, we got a round of applause then it was time for the masterclass. I'm glad Keith said 'it's one more yard' and I've done my longest run in ages.

Fuelling wasn't amazing but I did have a brioche roll in between yards, also didn't drink anywhere what I should have on the loops, the day was boiling, even the cows huddled under the solitary tree for shade.

Strength training and upping the distance gradually will be key for Fling, more importantly keeping the consistency going. I felt sore sooner than I'd have liked but again, I'd not done much at all the 2 month prior, I'm only in week 3 of building back up so in the grand scheme of things, I think I done really well. I'll keep working on fuelling.

Before we headed down for the talk, Mike had gave me a big backdrop for the podcast which is very cool! I have ideas for this when I get a more formal set up in the house for future episodes!

The masterclass was fantastic. Keith told us about his story and his daughter Alanna who is his inspiration. It was captivating and taught me to find a very strong 'why' for training and events. I love the phrase 'tuck yer skirt in!' when you don't want to do something and the Q&A with Keith, Karen and Mike was very informative too. Even Scott, Karen's husband gave us brilliant crewing advice which will help me for crewing Stevie for West Highland Way race this year.

After the event, I looked back at my phone and found I didn't take as many pictures and videos as I usually do to post on Instagram. I was far too busy enjoying the company and took one video on the whole run, which was the only time I was really alone. It's nice to have a record of these days but there's a lot to be said for just enjoying the present. That was one of my biggest takeaways from the day. My only regret was not getting a picture with Karen as I think she's awesome. Next time hopefully!

I want to round this up by saying a massive thank you to everyone organising this event. Karen, Keith and Bill for providing an insight into the highlander course. It was a real honour and privilege to run with Scottish and Irish backyard champions.