RACE INFO

RACE INFO

RACE INFO

RTP Home

Namib Race Blogs 2016

Sarah Pemberton

5

Posts

Namib Race (2016) blog posts from Sarah Pemberton

06 May 2016 08:24 am (GMT+01:00) West Central Africa

Writing a little later than normal because yesterday was the long march and the cyber tent wasn

Comments: Total (6) comments

Kenneth Pemberton

Posted On: 08 May 2016 12:12 am

Hi Sarah, Congrats on completion of the event! It's a big deal! A big personal achievement. Glad you have managed to complete unscathed. Parts of the course sound so difficult. Climbing up the dunes with the sand falling away is extremely hard work! Waking on sand is so much more difficult than hard ground. Anyway, I'm sure you've met some terrific people during the last week. Mum and Dad have returned to HK from Singapore. Mum had four days of Rand R. Sleeping, eating, sunbathing and some exercise. Taking the dog for a run at Cyberport. Great blog, and excellent pics! Love from Mum and Dad

Merrily Manthey

Posted On: 07 May 2016 12:28 am

Fabulous description of your incredible achievement !! Thank you for your powerful posts. Merrily Manthey

Alyssa Kasher

Posted On: 06 May 2016 11:21 pm

You are incredible. So excited for you to begin celebrating, and so,so happy that this race has been such a good experience for you. Enjoy that last 10km, and that glorious first shower at the hotel!

Shaun Collins

Posted On: 06 May 2016 09:16 pm

Sarah! You're incredible - I miss you. Congratulations on yesterday - must admit I failed at not checking every other half an hour to see whether there were any updates on the website to see how you got on until I resigned to convincing myself that because we hadn't heard anything you must have completed it! Very easy to imagine you laughing at the comedy of trying to climb up sand dunes. Congratulations -enjoy the run tomorrow. Time to start celebrating!!! Shaun

Kendall Sarson

Posted On: 06 May 2016 09:09 pm

I wish so badly that you could flip on your data and call me to chat while you hang out at camp! Counting the hours!!! You are so close to the finish it's crazy. Can't wait to hear from you, you warrior! Xo

Suzanne Wong

Posted On: 06 May 2016 08:49 pm

Sarah, I can't believe you ran 6 marathons back to back on a desert! How can your body take it? Your state of mind, your mental strength, and your spirit must be super high to sustain all the hardships and temptation to stop! Amazing! Truly incredible! Wonderful! Well done!

05 May 2016 02:27 am (GMT+01:00) West Central Africa

4th

Comments: Total (9) comments

Sam Sharrock

Posted On: 06 May 2016 02:41 pm

Long stage done and dusted, good job! All the hard work has been done, enjoy the celebratory trot into the finish :) x

Elisabeth Forsman

Posted On: 06 May 2016 11:14 am

Well done gorgeous! Enjoy the finish!

Suzanne Wong

Posted On: 06 May 2016 03:53 am

Hi Sarah, I have been wondering what it is like to run multiple and consecutive marathons in extreme conditions. It sounds impossible no matter how I imagine it. Your blog resolves the mystery. It is impossible - not for anyone who has the slightest doubts of completing! Such courage! Such perseverance! Good job! Well done! You are almost there! Hang in there! Kudos! Proud of you!

Katween Pang

Posted On: 05 May 2016 06:05 pm

Great job Sarah! Only two more days of running left- can you believe it?! You are so close it's incredible! I was reading your blog from my desk at the library. I'm currently cramming for an economics final tomorrow and just as I felt my head was going to blow I remembered to check your blog, and I am so so glad I did. Your determination and cool-headedness are reminding us all how to stay positive while striving for something. You will come out of this race not just a better runner but a happier, more dynamic, more brilliant person. Keep up everything you're dong- it seems to be working damn well- and see you on the flip side! Love you lots and sorry I compared your race to my economics final! :-)

Kit Keung Kenneth, K CHUNG

Posted On: 05 May 2016 05:07 pm

Excellent ! Bravo ! Really proud of you !

Kenneth Pemberton

Posted On: 05 May 2016 02:32 pm

Hi Sarah, Great to read how you are forging progress each day! Hope the blisters are OK for the double marthon. Kath had the LRI internshio, and is hopeful for the HK Ex internship as well. Mum has been helping TM to get an internship or two. Jenny has been in touch with Robert as to how to enhance his CV. TM is inspired and motivated! My training in Singapore ends Friday,Mum and Dad will return to HK Sat evening. Looking forward to reading your next blog. Keep tanked up with fluids, electrloyts, salt, etc. Slap that suncream on - don't forget your ears and lips! Love from Mum and Dad

Kendall Sarson

Posted On: 05 May 2016 12:52 pm

Your inner monologue is my favorite. I always find myself smiling as I read these because I can totally picture all of these things transpiring. You're doing so amazingly, you have completely conquered this race mentally. You are only a matter of hours away from the postrace bath/meal/facetime!!!

Sandy Suckling

Posted On: 05 May 2016 09:19 am

Go Sarah you are on fire keep the mantras going will be checking in tomorrow to read your wonderful blogs be inspired...inspire others you go girl you can taste that finish line and I want to see that medal around your neck...oh how good will that feel girl...... no self doubt you are doing this go go go Sandy xx

Clare Pemberton

Posted On: 05 May 2016 03:23 am

ONLY one long march, and one baby 10km left! You are so, so close and I am so, so proud/inspired/happy. I am finally crutch free, so I will be attempting my first jog in almost a month soon. Of course, I'll be thinking of ya When the pity fest strikes, remind yourself of the Gobi competitor that commented on your previous post. Of all the other sources of inspiration, this person chose to actively reach out to let you know that you are having an impact on strangers, and you didn't even know it! Your achievements and drive despite the self-pity is so inspiring. Keep it up. Missing you!!

04 May 2016 01:43 am (GMT+01:00) West Central Africa

Its heating up!

First: thank you! I wish I could write your messages on my arms and legs, so that when I falter I remember how positive and motivational you all are.

Comments: Total (8) comments

Leah Elias

Posted On: 04 May 2016 08:14 pm

Hey keep going girl! Don't worry we all cried in the Gobi! On day 4 I had only got about 25 minutes of sleep the night before and we had 42k to do and still the long day after that! I looked at John and started to ball my eyes out on the start line. He told me to just try to make it to check point one that day. I did, and he didn't let me quit. Keep going! Just make it to the next check point. You can totally do this. You are an amazing woman! I went on a 12 mile trail run today and thought of you, was glad I was only doing 12 at it was 50 degrees F. If you need to you can hallucinate me running with you...but I will probably be way behind so hallucinate me being much faster than I am. Crush it! almost done!

Kenneth Pemberton

Posted On: 04 May 2016 01:14 pm

Hi Sarah, Great to read your blog, but last stage sounded tough going! Mum is with you - she is empathising by laying in the sun at the Conrad Hotel in Singapore! Mum even made it into the gym today - you must have inspired her. Glad it's almost over for you. Time to really enjoy the experience. Load up with fluids and smother yourself with sun cream! One you are home you'll miss the desert experience - in a funny sort of way! Love from Mum and Dad

Shaun A Prawn

Posted On: 04 May 2016 12:41 pm

Sarah, Incredible - well done on day 3! And if you need always happy to walk by your side (Or on a dirt bike ;)). Love that your imagination and determination is carrying you through - and hopefully express some of your extrovertedness through out loud singing and time in the camp. Keep going - a few more days before you can get out of your running gear! I'll make sure to stock up on lululemon gear for when you get back! Shaun

Sandy Suckling

Posted On: 04 May 2016 09:06 am

hey Little Miss Sarah you go girl I want you to sing out loud songs on the course tomorrow as I will hear you all the way in OZZ... see my secret when I get lonely out there and no one is around I start singing well actually its the only time I can as I sing terrible but that is half the fun laughing at yourself.... No excuses YOU WILL DO THIS you haven't sacrificed all those hours of training planning to not... so go girl I am sending all the positive energy your way... and by the way so so enjoying your blogs... big hugs Sandyxx

Alyssa Kasher

Posted On: 04 May 2016 09:03 am

You don't know how glad I was to read this post (minus the heat you are enduring - such a baby about that myself so infinite kudos to you for surviving the heat!). First, because I know you have been thinking a lot about how and when to race. I love that you are so insistent on keeping the love of running above training/racing - we could all use a perspective like yours! Also totally imagined people running with me at IM Wisco so I'm with you on the power of that. Continuing to send postive vibes and can't wait for an overdue FaceTime debrief when you get back!

A Gobi Competitor

Posted On: 04 May 2016 05:55 am

I'm doing the Gobi March next month, reading the Namibia race blogs to get inspiration and tips. Just wanted to commend you on your absolutely wonderful posts: your determination, your self-awareness and your spirit really shine through! Keep going and keep smiling through gritted teeth and teary eyes, knowing that you've inspired some poor nervous guy who's going to go through this hell himself in about six weeks. Thanks!!

Clare Pemberton

Posted On: 04 May 2016 04:43 am

I was going to say just imagine me running right next to you, cheering you on when you need, reminding you to trust yourself, stay hydrated etc, but the reality is if I had the pleasure of travelling there with you, I would more likely be on a dirt bike, travelling in front and behind you back and forth, blasting 'Clare music' out loud with a lollipop in mouth. I would probably attempt a few km at a time, but find me resting on my parked bike eating under a tree somewhere. Just like you said: ''One marathon, one long march, and one baby 10km left''! (Pemberton, 2016) XOXO

Katween Pang

Posted On: 04 May 2016 04:12 am

HI SARAH!! Your post just made my day again. I like the idea of shuffling as a way of moving forward. Remember Ms Bolton taught us there are MANY different forms of 'locomotion': you can forward roll or cartwheel or teddy bear roll!! So if you get bored of running you know what to do! Keep up the amazing work Sarah! You are halfway there- before you know it you'll have completed the entire thing! I LOVE YOUU keep moving forward! 前進前進前進進進~~

03 May 2016 02:35 am (GMT+01:00) West Central Africa

1/3 Done!

Thank you, my favourites, for sending me messages

Comments: Total (9) comments

Nureen Wohl

Posted On: 04 May 2016 12:57 am

I'm super impressed by what you're doing!! You got this, keep pushing and power through. -Nureen (Clare's friend from CSSW)

Clare Pemberton

Posted On: 04 May 2016 12:51 am

I laughed when I read the apart about seals smelling like zoos. I can imagine you crinkling your nose every now and then! You're 1/3 done dude! One entire third!! You've already achieved a lot and you haven't got long to do. KEEP IT UP DÖGE! One foot after the other.

Shruti Pal

Posted On: 03 May 2016 07:34 pm

Hi Sarah! It's Shruti - Gaf's friend from Swat - and I just wanted to say GOOD LUCK for the rest of the race! Hearing about you is always so inspiring. You're such a huge role model for Gaf and I feel like you've vicariously become one for me as well! Still find it impossible to wrap my head around how you're doing this since I am extremely unfit myself (haven't been to the gym in 2016 yet ...) Take care and stay well, hopefully we get to meet soon :)

Katween Pang

Posted On: 03 May 2016 06:30 pm

sarah... when did you get so funny?! :-) i was smiling throughout both of your blog posts- i think you've picked up a bit of british humour :-) it sounds like you feel more in control in this race than in the past one, which is so great to hear. Keep up the positivity and patience- they are very powerful things- and it's truly amazing that you have been! i am glad you are listening to avril and james blunt a lot.. but how about colbie caillat? ~this is not the way that it should end, it's the way it should begin (with clare on the harmony)~ i hope she is up next! or if not, we can overdose on her together when we reunite <3 the seals must've been such a funny site to see! I am sorry your nose reacted so strongly hahah. I've always wanted to be a seal for a day- try imagining the seals as us four siblings, maybe that'll help you laugh at them and enjoy their presence more. what other animals are you seeing? sorry if this post is embarrassing i can't help it. one more thing- NOOT NOOT I LOVE YOU SARAH! Keep it up! xxxx

Julie Billingsley

Posted On: 03 May 2016 05:31 pm

Hi Sarah, you go, girl! I am totally impressed by your feats of endurance in the desert, so fantastic and motivating for the rest of us mere mortals. Hang in there and take good care of your blisters and fueling yourself. I'm sure that taking care of the little things helps you get through the very big thing. Keep it up!

Jigme Tobgyel

Posted On: 03 May 2016 04:00 pm

Hi Sarah! We met very very briefly last year but I've heard sooooo much about you from both Katherine and Clare. It's jaw-dropping to hear of all your accomplishments and I can't even begin to imagine the experience you're having right now. Your post is also incredibly funny, by the way! I hope you'll come visit Gaf again sometime and I have the chance to meet you officially and actually speak to you. Stay strong and good luck with the rest of the race. Best, Jigme (Gaf's Swat BFF)

Sam Sharrock

Posted On: 03 May 2016 02:04 pm

Sounds like things are under control and you're very composed and relaxed. Good stuff. Trason would be proud :) I got a phone call earlier from the early 2000's and they want all their music back...keep up the good work, it going well...HAPPY DAYS! x

Kendall Sarson

Posted On: 03 May 2016 11:06 am

So I'm literally loling as I read this. I know we've been unsure whether you're funny to people who aren't me (which I guess this doesn't necessarily indicate either) but this post is hilarious and so well written. Add "eloquent humor blogging after copious exercise" to your resume when you get home. I'm so happy to hear everything is going so well (besides this new hatred of beaches which is totally fair, fuck beaches)!!! Good news, you've been photographed and the shirt looks fantastic - so pleased. Keep killing it and smiling (and making us all smile back home). You're a superhuman! Xo

Ross Pepper

Posted On: 03 May 2016 08:31 am

Hey Sarah - glad to hear you're doing well, keep going! You're making us all very proud of you. I can't wait to see you in a couple of week with Clare. I think you 2 should go and spend some time together whilst I stay in and update your iTunes - James Blunt and Avril Lavigne. Sarah. You've inspired me to go for a run today, a hellish 5km. See you soon, Ross.

02 May 2016 09:23 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

I

Comments: Total (8) comments

Adam Kimble

Posted On: 02 May 2016 06:13 pm

1. A mantra about eating food is a good mantra. 2. Avril has pumped me up plenty of times before, so no embarrassment there :) Keep it up, Sarah! You're doing great!

Kendall Sarson

Posted On: 02 May 2016 06:06 pm

You're amazing, love the mantras. High school Sarah would have thought you were ridiculously cool, glamorous, and intimidating just like sophomore Kendall may or may not have ;) Hope the shirt is working out and you've managed to get yourself photographed for your fans back at home! Don't make me send my pros and cons list.. Love you lots

Alyssa Kasher

Posted On: 02 May 2016 02:05 pm

One day down! Glad to hear that you had a successful and relatively uneventful first day (I feel like in these situations that can be a great thing). The "you have steel within you" mantra makes me think I can still convince you into an ironman (get it?) so something new to ponder this week :) stay strong and keep enjoying the adventure!

Kenneth Pemberton

Posted On: 02 May 2016 01:53 pm

Great blog sarah, enjoyed the read and was with you there! Whilst you are enjoying your experience, mum and Dad fly out to Singapore on Tuesday. Dad for work, Mum for some R&R! We will be thinking of you and are keen to read your next blog. Good luck, enjoy the experience! =

Clare Pemberton

Posted On: 02 May 2016 01:08 pm

I love the mantras, especially the one about food*. If I were there, you know that's the one I'd be shouting from the sidelines (can you tell I like food?). Day one down! I hope this race was what you expected - landscape, temperature, intensity. Surprises are good too. Your biggest fan, Chlu

cynthia lao

Posted On: 02 May 2016 11:01 am

awesome! Rock on day 2 :-)

Alina Prendiville

Posted On: 02 May 2016 10:59 am

Go go go Sarah! I always love reading your blogs... keep up the great attitude, positive spirit and unceasing motivation. I'm cheering for you! x Alina

Shaun Collins

Posted On: 02 May 2016 10:51 am

You're incredible. Keep it up. Sounds like you are in a great place. Love the mantra, 'if in doubt, eat something'. Hope the light pack is working well! S