So, 12 months ago I signed up for the Beachy Head Marathon (one of the UK’s biggest off-road marathons) as a friend talked me into it and I felt I needed a challenge.
The last full marathon I competed in was the 2013 London marathon running for the Leonard Cheshire Disability Charity where I raised over £1,500.
Training started in June where I would often get up early so I could get the runs out the way before the sun came out and it didn’t impact too much on work and play! By mid-August I was on target for the distance but then came the hills! If I’d known then what I know now, I’m not so sure I would have signed up for this but I don’t give up easily!
Saturday 26th October arrived, and after a good hearty breakfast, my Berocca and my running gear fit for all eventualities, we set off for the start line in Eastbourne and there came my first hill! 2,200 participants crossed the start line and as I waved back at my family, I thought to myself WHAT HAVE I LET MYSELF IN FOR?!
The views were spectacular and the weather conditions were perfect so every step made for picturesque views of the magnificent South Downs National Park countryside and the East Sussex coastline. However, the countless hills with an elevation of 1,318 metres, 300 steps and 14 gates were another battle of mental and physical determination. The wind picked up on Seven Sisters and as I could see the lighthouse in the very far distance, I wondered how I was going to make it to the end that was still 6 miles away. After 5 hours 57 minutes of running and climbing, I crossed the finish line in place 1,201.
Would I do it again, well I never say never!
Karla
If you fancy setting yourself the challenge of an off-road marathon. Here’s the link to next year’s Beachy Head Marathon (of course, other marathons are available!) https://www.active.com/eastbourne-eastsussex/running/distance-running/beachy-head-marathon-half-and-10k-2020.
For all you marathon (and aspiring marathon) runners, here is this year’s recommended pre-marathon meal http://mediafiles.thedms.co.uk/Publication/ES-MarW/cms/pdf/Angelo%20Pasta.pdf – enjoy!