Winter outdoor training can be tough, especially during the cold, dark days, but having an event calendar keeps me focused. Knowing my ‘why’ also keeps me going. It guides my training as otherwise, I’m not very good at committing to a routine!
I have three key events lined up so far this year that have grabbed my attention! I’m sure I’ll write more about each event in due course, but a wee summary below.
Manchester Marathon: 27th April.
My third Manchester Marathon, and 7th marathon overall. Every marathon I’ve run has been meaningful to me for different reasons, such as raising money for a good cause or overcoming physical or mental health challenges. This time is no exception as I aim to run sub 4 hours for the first time. Even in my early twenties, I didn’t manage that and I am incredibly grateful that my body is allowing me to continue improving.
Cycling John O Groats to Lands End: Late May.
This is the biggie! In May I’m attempting to cycle 1000 miles down the UK from John O Groats to Lands End (JOGLE), self-supported. There is so much to navigate before even getting to the start line: mapping the route, learning bike maintenance, prepping gear and food, whether to vlog it.. Given that I haven’t been on my bike since the Autumn, there’s much to do!
Ultra-X Wales: 28-29th July
Like its sister Scotland event I did last May, Wales is also a two day, 110km ultra through the heart of Snowdonia. Run by the incredible folks at Ultra-X, it’s a well supported event through beautiful terrain, and a step-up in difficulty from Scotland! I can’t wait to take part and to meet some friendly faces!
>> View the Ultra-X Wales Site Page <<
Looking ahead, I also have a list of dream events I’d love to take on – if my body and mind continue to be kind to me. I fully appreciate these are stretch goals, but pushing boundaries is how we grow and truly understand ourselves, and I believe are worth aiming for! These include:
- Dragon’s Back Wales: A gruelling 6-day race along the mountainous spine of Wales.
- Ultra-X Jordan: A 220km, five-day ultramarathon through the deserts of Jordan.
- Iron Man 70.3: Leading to Full Iron Man: Combining swimming, cycling and running with hard cut-off times! There are a number of hurdles before this one!
- Montane Summer Spine: The sister to the Winter Spine, but with better weather! Would love to attempt the summer one first, before contemplating whether the Montane Winter Spine is for me.
- UTMB Arc of Attrition: Close to my family home along the Cornish coastline, just looks like a stunning event!
Baby steps…..
Simon x
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