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Gobi March Blogs 2013
12
PostsGobi March (2013) blog posts from Steven Brydon
17 June 2013 10:26 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi all,
Wonderful to meet so many of you in Gobi and watch you achieve your goals. It was a cracking week for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it (that windy and wet high pass was a little wild huh!).
I
07 June 2013 02:15 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Pop the kettle on grab a cuppa and I'll try and spin a little yarn.
On the eve of the 75km long stage we competitors went to bed pensive, cold but excited...ok: very anxious and nervous. The long day was going to be tough, a gentle first 15km, a long, long 20km climb over the first mountain pass (2800m) sloping downhill into a green valley then another 12km climb until a final flat 7km...ok, got..now let's get some sleep.
But things went pear shaped early. By midnight our tent was buffeted by heavy winds and the rain was torrential and started to flow through the door and window flaps and pool underneath me. I knew the only thing I really needed to keep dry was socks and did my best to protect them. I piled my gear into a dry spot and huddled in the centre of the tent with a few others. When morning finally broke I discovered the only casualty was my bag of dry socks...of course! They'd rolled out in the frenzy and settled in a small pool. When I went to dry them by the fire we were told, no fire this morning. Camp was in a little wooded grove and too unsafe...But you gotta be careful what you wish for...a fire was started in a far field and I huddled around it with my socks...1/2 hr to race start. Well I got too eager and burned the toes out of all my spare socks! awesome: idiot!!!
At race start I ambled over the line with Chris from the U.S, our plan to walk the first 35km up, as hard as we could and reel in the over eager runners bound to falter as the day went along. And we did, we hit the first checkpoint in 88th, the 2nd in 75th and the 3rd in low 60 position. As we started the long climb the mist rolled in and the weather turned bad, very bad. It was raining heavily, deathly cold and hailing and snowing ahead. I had shorts on, a soaked t shirt and scrounged a garbage bag to put over me at CP3. We'd knocked over the first 10km of climbing well, our plan working perfectly. My hands were getting cold now, very cold and my core temp was dropping fast. Chris and I slogged up, off the road and up a steep bog to the high pass. I was in a very dark place when Chris wandered by. "Those kids in your mind?" I squeezed my trekking poles and pushed up, each step on a dimpled bog and every step a victory. Chris was going well, I was fading but we maintained our position. When I crested I wasspent, double over and heaving for air. Chris was standing at the top with a salami sandwich!!!!! I sat for a minute and my temperature plummeted...I need to move, Chris knew it and so did I. We got up and started to shuffle down as I started to shake. I took two bites of salami but was too cold to chew. I spat the mouthfuls into my hand, no wasting them, and ran down hill until I warmed enough to eat. The combination of fatty food and loss of elevation helped my warm and we ran as hard as we could. By now my hands were frozen and was in real strife, I sensed hypothermia wasn't far off. Wde pulled over the pull gloves and warm hats from our packs, Chris needed to help me get my gloves on, my hands too frozen to move.
My fingers went white and stiff, the blood leaving them to try and warm more critical organs. Chris and I found a lot of energy and managed eating and drinking well and pushed as low down the mountain as fast as we could. By now we got the feeling the race was in jeopardy. We'd already walked through high winds and driving sleet, over drifts of snow and hail...and we were felling strong. The 100 or so behind us wouod be suffering badly.
Wisely the race staff called a halt and shortened the last leg to 55km. Chris and I made it in in 44th and were frustrated by understood. It was dreadful out nd snowing ahead...in wet t-shirts it just wasn't wise or safe. We all held up in farm house until boarding buses.
As my body warmed and feet thawed the cramps were excruciating. I grimaced in pain every few minutes as bolts shot up my legs. When we finally boarded the driver got lost, we were halted by several sheep herds moving up the road and all stank dreadfully. Our bus pulled into a yurt camp and we bedded down. Colin and I popped out to grab water at 10 pm and walk out to a sight of hell frozen over! Visibility was zero and so was the temperature. It was dreadful out, so many people would have been at the high passes if the race wasn't shortened. I was convinced then that the team had averted catastrophe...lost racers, poor gear for the weather or injuries would no doubt have ravaged the field.
It was an insane day, horrific weather, tough climbing challenged everything I had. When I woke this morning and listened to some music I just thought of the kiddies and that hill and pass. They carried me up, I imagined them on my shoulders and lifted. Without them or Chris on the ground it may have been a very different outcome. James and Anna literally enabled me to stand on mountains..when I heard the song that reminds me of them most I pulled my sleeping bag over my face and am not too ashamed to admit, as I lay on my back, I felt tears fall down my cheeks. I left nothing up there.
Comments: Total (6) comments
Travis Saunders
Posted On: 09 Jun 2013 09:49 am
Awesome effort. Sounds like a really tough day. Good luck for the rest of the race. You are an absolute inspiration! Cheers Trav (run4autism)
jason freney
Posted On: 09 Jun 2013 02:49 am
Congratulations mate on your awesome achievement. You have toughed it out as usual.
Trevor Huteau
Posted On: 08 Jun 2013 09:58 am
Well done Steve. Sounds like a tough day at the office. Always knew you would make it through.
Salami!!! Should tell Chris about corned beef and pickles!
Trev
Paul Tyas
Posted On: 08 Jun 2013 07:05 am
I'm not religious mate but maybe those holey socks saved you. Sounds tough. Getting it DONE though.
Enjoy your last leg.
Leanne Brydon
Posted On: 08 Jun 2013 03:47 am
From the heat of Sahara to the cold of Gobi, what's next? Glad that's over!! Have a great night and celebrate...and buy Chris from the US a beer, thank goodness for salami sandwiches!! xx
Adam Evans
Posted On: 08 Jun 2013 03:27 am
Mate another great read. Well done!
05 June 2013 01:44 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi all,
Solid 40km day in 5h:45m and came in 45th..didn't leave much in the tank and am pretty shattered at moment.
The going was really stunning today, decent climb through fields and valley with very imposing snow capped peaks for company all day. Was a heads down, bum up day to get a decent time done. The usual yurt villages, herders and locals for company. Even trotted through a town and cheers on a long down hill. Last 10km was downhill on tarmac and gravel road, excellent to make up some time but my knees and hip was savaged.
To breakn from my running narative routibne, I'll give you my daily routine. Up at 6.30 for breakfast (detydrated meal and high carb powder) pack the gear, visit the world's worst toilet and then the morning's race brief. It's been miserable weather last few mornings, so it's a huddle around the fire before setting off at 8.00.
I run/walk through the 40km days and have a few gels, jelly beans and electrolyte to keep me fueled for the 7-8hr running days. There's usually a lot of othes in sight but I tend to run alone. Though todayt my mate from Sahara, Colin and I trotted through the first 25k together. When I get into camp I picked up 9 water bottles, stick my feet up and eat and drink. Then it's relax with feet uop for a couple of hours andf watch others come in.
As we sort evening meals (mmmmm more dehydrated food) I bath (using a few cm's of water in bottom of cut up water bottle and dehydrated hand towels...then it's deoderant time). I've just had my last shave and spray...dumping all unecessary stuff ahead of tomorrow's much anticipated (and somewhat dreaded) 'long day'.
Dinner is banter, chatting about our race, tomorrow's plan and how much we'll eat at the end of race function. Cracking group of people and some gutsy efforts. Sean is walking whole thing...tore the ligaments in his knee on day 1!!! Hard man. Meeting a ton of inspiring people and it'll no doubt keep me coming back for more. My family have helped me through some dark moments over the last few days and as the old body gives up toward mid way each day my mind wanders off the the kiddies faces and I'm not hurting or alone anymore.
Sleep is tough, doesn't get dark until 10.30pm and it's tough to drift off with snoring, dogs barking and goats bleeting in my head. I usually manage a few hours and somehow wake up ready to go again.
Tomorrow is the biggie: 75km over very difficult terrain and lots of climbing. The plan is take it easy for first marathon, rest for 45min and crack through the final 35k into the night...that's the plan anyway.
My morale is high and I'm good. Have still managed to evade blisters and back ulcers (from pack rub) so I really only need to manage the joint pain...all good.
Stay cool and chat after I smash out 75km tomorrow.
SB
Comments: Total (9) comments
Aimee Dovell
Posted On: 07 Jun 2013 10:14 am
Go Steve! So amazing what you are doing! Brent and I are sitting by the campfire having a beer for you. You're doing great! Very inspiring!
Jason Freney
Posted On: 06 Jun 2013 07:00 am
Strong.Very strong mate
Graeme Cleland
Posted On: 06 Jun 2013 06:08 am
Well done Fella...... another grueling adventure in the grandad real life story book. It is not only your nearest and dearest that think you are awesome, your determination and commitment to your craft - is inspiring ! Go you good thing !!
Brian Townsend
Posted On: 06 Jun 2013 03:59 am
Great job leaving it all out there! Good luck tomorrow on the long march, I have no doubt you will do amazing.
Dave Evans
Posted On: 06 Jun 2013 03:22 am
Absolutely awesome undertaking and achievements Steven, As the proud parents of Adam Evans, "The Banzai Adventurer", we have followed your events fairly closely, and can only admire and marvel at your guts, stamina and determination in competing in, and completing these events. Because of Adam, we have come to realise the dedication and time that goes into the fundraising for your selected cause, it takes a very special person to endure what you are going through, and you are very special: Well done Champ!
shane hutton
Posted On: 06 Jun 2013 02:58 am
Steve you are a machine mate super human effort. Sounds like your killing it out there. I am pumped to read your blog everyday & love hearing it mate you make it sound easy. Your smashing along even with the dodgy knee and hips well done mate your a superstar and I am sure you have made short work of the long day. Keep up the good work Looking forward to those pancakes when you return mate well done
Leanne Brydon
Posted On: 06 Jun 2013 02:13 am
PS - You've inspired Richelle & I, we're off for a run around Mentone on Saturday morning to try and find our running 'mojo'!
Sonya Domanski
Posted On: 06 Jun 2013 01:56 am
Good luck for the big 75km tomorrow... smash it out of the park!!
Leanne Brydon
Posted On: 06 Jun 2013 01:56 am
I'm thinking of you a lot today as you move through the long stage, as I write this you'll have only been going a couple of hours with a long day in front of you...
What you have achieved over the last 18 months is extraordinary. This time next week you'll be home and preparing for your next adventure...savour these last couple of stages of Gobi and what you've achieved, I think you're awesome xxxx
03 June 2013 08:55 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Wow!!!!! that was a very tiring day, 36km but an absolute belter of a course. I ran most of the day with Lawrence from Sth Africa and Tim from UK, which helped through some tough spots.
By the waay...if you get frustrated with delay in blogs it's a drama getting a satellite link. Todays course was amazingly beautiful but incredibly tough. The first 10k through some very nice mountain passes and we 3 merry men were making a decent clip of it. We shuffled and walked and make short work of the morning. I was getting my nutrition and water intake right and the knee held up well for the morning...and then: THE mountain.
After traversing some raging streams over precarious rope swinging bridges we weaved through the forosted foothills before a staggering climb to th high point of the race. For over an hour I fought for every step, zero switchback, just straight up. And up and up. Its was without doubt the toughest climb I have ever done...anywhere..I was shattered at the top, bent forward and braced by trekking poles. We'd lost Tim by then, at 24 he trotted up waay out of reach for Lawrence and I. Whenwe finally got to the top it was little internal stocktake, a few "dry your eyes and harden up" momentws and then a nice shuffle down the trail through the fir forest and back onto the plain.
To our front now was a 6km plain of rolling disected by dry creek lines. The going was pretty straightforward other the the nettles which bit my ankles and the poisonous plants..prevalent and obvious (sheep won't eat them) but hard to avoid brushing by them when fatigue grabbs hold. It feels like an instant sting and lingering sunburun. The pain passes quickly (just in time for another scrape on a plant nearby).
Lawrence and I jogged and trekked the last six days and pretty much enjoyed the day. We pushed each other along, chatting and generally taking our minds off the road ahead. I feel great today and am set for the final 'short' 42km day tomorrow. Really great camaeraderie in the camp and meal time is a treat. It's hot out now..a welcome change from the blustery and very cold conditions overnight. Gear was wet and the fire side before this mornings race start was a cracking chance to dry out.
Overaall the race is providing the challenges I expected and more. VERY tough rolling hills, rocky terrain and long, monhotenous roads..but all in all a ripper of a course and each leg and stage is an achievement. Losing a few to knee and feet problems and blisters are ubiquitous...touch wood I'm still in good repair. Changing socks each day, using my deoderant (popular decision!) and am off for a shave..luxury!
My very best to you all.
SB
x
Comments: Total (13) comments
Deyl Kearin
Posted On: 05 Jun 2013 10:42 pm
You got this Steve! I've seen you do it with my own eyes.
Jimmy Mundy
Posted On: 05 Jun 2013 09:10 am
Going great guns mate! and loving the updates! Keep up the awesome effort!
Ron Spratt
Posted On: 05 Jun 2013 04:21 am
I read an article in Readers Digest in the doctors surgery yesterday about the toughness of the 'North Face'. It seems to pale into insignificance with what you are doing now.
Keep up the good work
Allan Spencer-Stewart
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 09:55 pm
A daily inspiration Steve. You've climbed mountains just to get to the starting line ... So a few more aren't going to break you. Stinging plants and perilous rope bridges are Hollywood film stuff. You just need a few killer animals nipping at your heels to complete the picture. Keep it up mate. We are all in awe. Your kids are going to be very proud
Brian Townsend
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 07:52 pm
Great work Bollywood! Sounds like a massive climb. I am jealous of the amazing experience you are having.
Jon Gannon
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 06:35 pm
Sounds like you are starting to hit your groove bollywood! I've created a Steve and Colin betting book for race bragging rights (though im the only one betting) great to see you guys doing so well! keep it up.
Adam Evans
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 01:39 pm
Woah woah woah woah!!! I just read it again. "shave"? What the?
Adam Evans
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 01:37 pm
HTFU - That's all I have.
Paul Tyas
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 10:49 am
Great work Steve keep up the good work !!
Your an inspiration to us all.
Patricia Bowmer
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 10:26 am
What an inspiration! I was contemplating the fact that the North Face 50 was only two weeks ago, and I was feeling mostly recovered, and here you are doing a marathon and more two weeks after the North Face 100. Well done! I look forward to the next installment!
jason freney
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 09:38 am
Shaving, deodorant sounds like luxury mate. Except for the poisonous plants sketchy bridges, mountain climbs and cold weather. You seem to be in great spirits mate. Glad to hear. You know what you have to do. Keep doing it mate.
Leanne Brydon
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 09:12 am
Just read a nice feature article on the 4 deserts website from an interview you did at the end of Stage 1, kept me going while the Chinese satellites were down!
Awesome time on Stage 2! Stage 3 hasn't been updated yet, but it sounds like you had a good (tough!) day!
You sound like you're getting stronger each day, very proud of you and wish I was going to be at the finish line, but we'll save that for next time! xxx
Sharon Ritchie
Posted On: 04 Jun 2013 09:11 am
You are an inspiration Steve. Love reading your blogs. Keep up the good work.
02 June 2013 02:54 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
I shouldn’t be surprised when I write this: THAT was a tough day! Stage one was a little over marathon distance and I’ve just completed it in 7hr:20m. Not a great time but I’m just happy to have that one behind me. The course is stunning but unlike the heat, sand and exhaustion of the Sahara, Gobi was rocky, hilly and painful. I went out too quickly, even dumber was that I knew I was but was feeling decent for the first ½ marathon until my knees and hip fell apart. The rough service made it very tender underfoot. My knees and hip were certainly an early passport into the hurt locker and I really struggled from 20-35km. I shuffled and stumbled the last few km and can’t remember being happier to see a finish line.
The course was really startling, beautiful plains, deep escarpments and steep knolls. Within the first few kilometres a steep climb thinned the hurd and from the summit it was evident the day was going to be long but somewhat enjoyable. The terrain varied all day, through streams and villages, past sheep herders yurts and some wide eyed locals.
The afternoon started with a steep climb through a lunar landscape valley, up over some old wooden stairs weaving through the rocks and through a narrow gap into the wide plan on the other side of the pass. Then it was just the long slog to the finish.
As I ambled along I was regularly passed by well wishes, my goals for time and place evaporating quickly. I’ve just arrived back in camp to a quick feed, I ate only two gels for the narathon, rehydrated and had some jerky and energy bar, washed down by a high protein recovery shake. Busted open the pack to retrieve 3 dehydrated towels (no, not joking) and had a wash behind the tent and a spray of deodorant ( a luxury that’s earned me some bawdy comments. I’m pleased to be the nicest smelling person in the Gobi!).
I’ll rest up now and recover for tomorrow…I’m not in great shape but I’m in good cheer…we’ll get there.
SB
Comments: Total (12) comments
Trevor Huteau
Posted On: 05 Jun 2013 07:11 am
Well done Steve. Sounds like you are in good shape. Having a buddy through the day must make the job a bit easier. You can almost see the finish line.
Trev
Etsuji Otsuka
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 12:20 pm
As you experienced in Sahara, first and second stage are very tough because you just can not adjust to the environment. Take your time and do your best. I am sure you will feel much better from 3rd stage. Till then, Keep Calm and Carry On!!
Matthew Gilbey
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 09:09 am
Keep up the good work. Certainly inspiring me to get off my lazy ... Proverbial. Looking forward to see you make it through. Placing is still respectable. Very best of luck (even though you're probably close to finished leg 2)
Trevor Huteau
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 08:40 am
Tough slog Steve, well done. The smelly stuff was a nice touch. Pity you forgot it on our trips!!
Dianne Brydon
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 08:37 am
I hope you are feeling well. You already know this - I love you Daddy. I hope you are running as fast as you can. I hope you are not too tired. I hope you are not too thirsty. Are you having fun Daddy? xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Love, Anna and James.
Brian Townsend
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 07:02 am
Steve, loved that you brought deodorant. Sounds like an incredibly challenging day. Keep up the good work.
Deyl Kearin
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 06:27 am
Huge effort Steve! That's the Steve that I know. Well done and way to keep charging when things get tough. That's why you came right??
Hopefully you shaved tonight. Show some decency!!
Jason Freney
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 05:19 am
Im just pleased to hear you are using deodorant. Well done.
Dave Limon
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 05:05 am
As someone that has done a few Ironman races I am used to people telling me that I'm crazy and questioning why and how I'd sign up for such pain. An equal number tell me how impressed they are and how they think what I do is inspiring.
You my friend are an inspiration to me. You do this for all of the right reasons and with a great attitude.
Keep it up mate. We'll be following your progress and cheering you on.
shane hutton
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 04:23 am
Great to hear you conquered the first day mate. It sounds spectacular & no matter what pace your doing it`s about the destination mate not the whether your first or last. Your a superstar Steve & I am sure you will continue to do well & get through the tough early days. Enjoy it mate If it wasn`t so hard everyone would be there it takes a certain person to be able to go and push through mate well done.. Keep your head up
Claire Beyer
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 03:21 am
Positive mind set can out rule a crumbling body! Take care of yourself while keeping your overall goal in mind. You can and will do this! You are doing things people wouldn't even dream about, amazing!! We as a family will be following your progress. You are an inspiration to so many. All the best for the coming days!
Leanne Brydon
Posted On: 03 Jun 2013 03:01 am
I've been waiting for this blog to come through, the upload is quite slow and makes for a tense wait to see how you got through! Sounds like a tough day, I know you'll get through, your determination is stronger than any old busted hip...so pleased to hear you're using deodorant, always important to keep yourself 'nice'! Love you xx
01 June 2013 02:54 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
After three days of travel, far too many meals where I wasn't quite sure what I've been eating (I am looking forward to some more camel hoof when I get back to Urumqi) I'm nearly at the start line.
We've just finished the race briefing and I was delighted to see so many friends again and a sea of excited faces. Fourteen minutes until I drag my pack down for the mandatory kit check, a final meal and board buses for the ride to Camp 1.
Bole feels like i'm in the middle of nowhere but the town is quite large, the hotel comfortable (NOT the beds mind you) and the views coming in over the snopw caps was stunning. It's quite warm out but we're not expecting anything like the Sahara temperatures and no sand on the course!!!
Instead we'll be treated to streams, mountains, green fields and forests and plenty of ethic minority villages, the Kazahk and Mongol people as curious of us as we are of them.
We'll there be plenty of sounds and sights no doubt over the next 250km of racing and I'm excited about getting going. As usual I feel like I've failed to learn anything from the past..as I look over at my pack it's bulging and bulky (after the breakfast buffet I feel much the same way!).
Cheers and chat soon.
SB
We've just finished the race briefing and I was delighted to see so many friends again and a sea of excited faces. Fourteen minutes until I drag my pack down for the mandatory kit check, a final meal and board buses for the ride to Camp 1.
Bole feels like i'm in the middle of nowhere but the town is quite large, the hotel comfortable (NOT the beds mind you) and the views coming in over the snopw caps was stunning. It's quite warm out but we're not expecting anything like the Sahara temperatures and no sand on the course!!!
Instead we'll be treated to streams, mountains, green fields and forests and plenty of ethic minority villages, the Kazahk and Mongol people as curious of us as we are of them.
We'll there be plenty of sounds and sights no doubt over the next 250km of racing and I'm excited about getting going. As usual I feel like I've failed to learn anything from the past..as I look over at my pack it's bulging and bulky (after the breakfast buffet I feel much the same way!).
Cheers and chat soon.
SB
Comments: Total (13) comments
Bo Mclean
Posted On: 09 Jun 2013 11:53 am
Steve, I hope this will catch before you leave Bole.
I still owe you some money and have a favour to ask. Left my iphone in room 6529 or 6526 already carnt remember which it was, if you wouldn't mind making a quick inquiry?
Could pick up tomorrow night from your hotel or join you guys for an afternoon beer and a top feed somewhere.
am at Lucky Chance Hotel 0991-2309911 room 1919,
or message the mail address.
Have you a bank account to contribute to your charity?
Bo
Dianne Brydon
Posted On: 02 Jun 2013 08:34 am
Dear Daddy, I hope you're not too tired but I know you will be. Try your hardest and be your best. Love from Anna and James. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
jason freney
Posted On: 02 Jun 2013 08:18 am
Great to hear you are ready to rumble. Hope its going well mate.
Jon Gannon
Posted On: 02 Jun 2013 04:02 am
Steve, I've seen you in a bunch of pics and am beyond jealous of the adventure you have just started. No doubt you will tear this up after Sahara and all the training since.
Trevor HUteau
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 09:16 am
Have a good run Steve.Pity we are not meeting up after the race.
We will follow your race from here.
Trev
Etsuji Otsuka
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 08:29 am
Hi Steve, you are reading this probably after 1st stage. How was it? I am sure that you manage yourself well in the 1st stage. I hear the scenery of the new course is amazing. Don't forget enjoy it. Eat well, sleep well and enjoy the next stage. Good luck!!
Audrey Jack
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 08:12 am
Good luck Steve! A walk in the park after the Sahara. Give Colin a big hug from me!
X
Deyl Kearin
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 05:36 am
Go get em Steve!! You got this! You proved yourself in Sahara :)
Ron & Fay Spratt
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 04:46 am
Sounds like you are fit and ready to go. All the Beast for your adventure, we look forward top reading your blogs.
Adam Evans
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 04:26 am
Well done mate. Getting to the start is more than half the battle.
shane hutton
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 03:27 am
Great stuff Steve have a blast mate
Brad Jones
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 03:07 am
Well done mate, all the best for the trek. Will be following closely.
Leanne Brydon
Posted On: 01 Jun 2013 03:02 am
So happy to hear you made it, sounds like you've got a great week in front of you, can't wait to read all about it, take care, I love you xxx
21 May 2013 04:57 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Less than 10 kilometres into The North Face 100 I knew I needed to strap myself in for a long and uncomfortable day and night. It became pretty clear pretty quickly that I hadn
Comments: Total (0) comments
14 May 2013 07:46 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi all,
Wow, less than 3 weeks and we'll be digging our toes in the start line and all the training and preparation will culminate in an awesome few days. I've enjoyed reading your blogs and following friends, old and new on Facebook...I'm excited as hell to catch up with you all.
My training has been going well and I'm glad to be shifting into trail/running focus mode. Until last week I'd been training largely for my first Ironman Triathlon. The 5th May race is now done and dusted (I didn't win!), really enjoyed myself and finished in 13:13:00 (did a little blog update on www.odyssey4autism.com.au)
With Ironman behind me I've spent the last week+ recovering and getting ready for this coming weekend's North Face 100, a 100km (66mi) trail race in New South Wales' stunning Blue Mountains...excited. My aim is to enjoy the race, test the legs and cap a cracking year (to date) of training.
After last year's Sahara Race I didn't hesitate to register for Gobi and am jumping out of my skin to get over there and race. I won't be setting any records but I will be carrying a lot of lessons from Egypt with me. Without a doubt the highlight of the Sahara for me was the people I met along the way; tent mates, chit chats around meals, running through the sands and fleeting meetings at checkpoints. The conversations are etched in my memory and while I can't replicate the past I'm mindful of the importance my fellow competitors were then and remain now.
My race plan: I'm going to run my hardest in Gobi and leave nothing out there. I'm not changing ANY kit (I got ZERO blisters, LOVED my pack and enjoyed my creature comforts {a razor}...I'll carry a little less food...NO dehydrated muesli: awful) and I'm going to meet as many of you as I can.
Enjoy the last few weeks, shake any nerves and rest up and stay cool.
Steve
Comments: Total (2) comments
Ben Lloyd
Posted On: 15 May 2013 03:05 am
Great work on the Ironman mate. Impressed you're straight back into racing mode and up for a 100km race. I'd think most people running the final stages are motivated by weeks of cold beers in celebration of getting to the finish! Look forward to hearing the stories. See you in Bole......
Alina B
Posted On: 14 May 2013 10:18 am
Great blog, Steve. Sounds like you're set and ready to go. Many congratulations on your Ironman - I have enjoyed following your adventures since the Sahara Race. Looking forward to seeing you again soon - can't wait! Alina
01 April 2013 09:27 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
April 2 is World Autism Day and the one occasion where those of us who love someone with autism, know someone with autism or simply want to show support for the 1 in 88 children born with autism.
I'll be wearing blue all day but feeling great. My son James is happy and responding well to a new music therapy program to help him manage those times when the outside world is a little too much for him.
He has always been and will always be my hero and greatest source of inspiration.
My training is starting to lift in tempo and I'll feeling good. Five weeks away from my first Ironman triathlon so I'm in a solid training block at the moment. It'll be a good base for Gobi and I excited about the race. Looking forward to seeing friends form the Sahara and making plenty more.
My best to you all...go hard!
www.odyssey4autism.com.au
Comments: Total (1) comments
Agnes Cheng
Posted On: 13 Apr 2013 02:36 pm
My good friend has a little girl who has autism. There is one game we love playing with her. Whenever everyone in the living room claps (and it must be everyone), she will be so happy and will start running into the bedroom. Imagine, at the Gobi, your son clapping for you as you run through the mountains, forests and rivers! ;)
25 February 2013 02:18 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
I watched 100 days to go tick by and thought it the ideal time to have a look back at Sahara Race last Oct and see what's changed...did I actually learn from my mistakes and what adjustments I need to make over the next few months.
The major change in my build up has been a few lax months after the Sahara and then trying to reignite the training after such a momentous year and event. Despite being a long way from 'race ready' I just want the next 97 days to whizz by and toe the start line.
I have re-drafted my Sahara Race blogs (tried to eliminate typos!!!) in an effort to see what I can do in terms of 'lessons learned'.
My triathlon coached pinged an email to me last night with my training program for my first Ironman (May) and I suspect it'll put some km's in my legs and be a great foundation for Gobi. As I've only got two weeks between IM and Gobi I'm thankful for the Sahara experience...and the fact that I still have my gear (somewhere in my chaotic storage at home) and don't need to go through the (albeit fun) online shopping and kit choices. There's still a few things I need and will be checking into the RTP store very soon.
I'm enjoying everyone's blogs (some crackers!!!) and can't wait to meet you in Bole. If you'd like a look...dive into:
http://www.odyssey4autism.com.au/sahara-race-wrap/
I had a VERY lucky run in the Sahara in terms of shoe and pack selection and won't be making any major gear changes...meals is something I'll look at a little closer (dehydrated muesli is AWFUL!!!!!).
cheers
Steve
Comments: Total (1) comments
Agnes Cheng
Posted On: 25 Feb 2013 02:45 pm
Agree. Eat well no matter what. That's also my Gobi learning too :)
15 February 2013 11:44 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
After three month training hiatus it
Comments: Total (1) comments
Agnes Cheng
Posted On: 22 Feb 2013 12:00 pm
Hi Steve, thx so much for your encouragement, my effort is nothing compared to yours! I've read about you on Runner's World and your recovery and come back is truly inspirational! Can't wait to meet you at the Gobi! ;)
17 December 2012 09:42 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Have had a lazy month since finishing Sahara Race in November (did squeeze a 50km ultra in and a decent time on a 14km fun run...but that's a few highlights in an otherwise sedentary month) but it's time to lift the game again! I had a fantastic time in the Sahara and can't wait to get back out into the desert, see old friends and perhaps even improve on my time and position.
I won't bore you all too much at this stage. I've got a ton of great challenges ahead, super motivated to be back focussing on training and fundraising (www.odyssey4autism.com.au) and following your blogs. Excited about sharing some stories, working on the many lessons I've taken from the Sahara.
Part of my lead up I'm tackling 1000km cycle challenge to get to the start line of my first Ironman (what a week that'll be) and knocking over the Northface100 while I'm meant to be tapering...bring it on. So excited after yesterday's 70.3 (despite an awful time I'm pumped for more!).
If you're starved for entertainment you can ready a bit about my Sahara race and other goings on at www.odyssey4autsim.com.au
Comments: Total (1) comments
Kim Pribanic
Posted On: 02 Jan 2013 04:16 pm
Hi Steve,
Whew! What a training/racing schedule you've got planned for yourself. (I especially like the 1000km bike leading into the IM. That's going to be a real challenge, and I look forward to hearing how it goes! :-)
Off to check out your website now. Thanks for sharing your insights!
See you in China,
kim
Comments: Total (1) comments
Brett Sharkey
Posted On: 18 Jun 2013 08:51 pm