Phase II : Warby Corner (08) to Pole 333 (15)
The intention was to “push” through this section, and gain as much position and time as possible – I deliberately took my time at the aid station (08), took on extra calories/water noting the exposed conditions and effort expended on the climb.
The descent on buffed out fire trail to the AAWT turnoff (09) was pristine vehicle track with rammed earth and crushed rock. It should (and was) run at good pace, noting it was in exposed conditions. The turnoff to AAWT (09) was well marked, and this section of trail was technical on a varying mix of terrain in alpine scrub (tussocks, hidden rocks, mud, turns, fallen trees, water, etc.) – thoroughly enjoyable, and barring the first 5 k, probably the most fun running of the day. Breaking out onto more vehicle fire trail (10), it was a buttery flattish segment to the half way point at Langfords Hut (11).
I was in two minds at Langfords, regarding hydration/nutrition after passing two runners coming in. I opted for caution and took in extra before heading out
Race Update [˜10th, moving up], Feeling it a bit, nutrition OK, water a concern, stomach issues (minor) and elevation drawing on the effort]
Pushing out from Langfords, the trail continues on quality compressed vehicle track, but still quite exposed to sunlight (and wind, although not present). The turnoff to the carpark (12) however was not marked, and cost the lead runner (DNF) and another runner ahead of me to lose time. This small detour was broken trail, with a modest elevation gain which required a hike out. The last section to the carpark (13) was more fire trail before crossing the road and following the pole line along the AAWT to Pole 333.
At this stage, I began a down patch – that I worked my way through as I descended along the pole line on the gravel, then, super slick rubber matting towards the SEC Hut (14)
Race Update [˜8th(?), moving up], Checking myself, water/food ok, stomach problems (real) and running legs deserting me. Must be patient and have faith – the race will come back to me
The section from SEC Hut (14) to Pole 333 (15) was my worst, as I struggled with momentum and concentration. This section (after recent snow), is highly technical to move across quickly. Running in either a culvert or across tussock fields, in soggy earth/mud, hidden rocks and knee length bushes was challenging and relentless in the exposed environment. Making it to Pole 333 was a boon – and a time to regroup (
Phase III : Pole 333 (15) to Finish (22)
Departing Pole 33, I knew it would not be long before I would have to reach into the well. Departing 333 the track quickly improved into a runnable descent through similar terrain down the Fainter Track. This track is C road, and is runnable with a nice 2 km descent into the final aid point at Pretty Valley Pondage (16). Stopping quickly for some water and orange, I moved on – the final gradual push before climbing Mt McKay (18) on buffed out vehicle track at modest gradients (˜3-10%)
Towards the summit, my bottom hit – and I reached down for some motivation and was rewarded. Always a beautiful moment to have the rush of euphoria erupt and bring you back to life, perhaps why many of us really challenge ourselves in these events.
The ascent of Mt McKay is small (˜1km, 15%), on large stone vehicle track and I powered up it, knowing it was a roll to the finish. The descent needs some patience, as it is easy to clip toes and twist ankles – but reaching the bottom (19) and powering across the last vestiges of tech terrain back to the road, greeted by a grinning RD who quipped “like that hill I put there?”. [Note : In fairness, I did!]
I breathed a sigh of relief. I knew I was going to beat my “A” time by at least 25mins. Head down. Push to finish, and try not to lose it too bad on the finish line. Failed at that part.
Finishing events of this type can affect us in different ways. For me, it is a spiritual connection to my lost children. A deeply emotional and personal connection that can only be achieved under periods of extreme duress and achievement. For my angels, thank you for guiding me.
Observations:
- Preparation for AC is key. It is a challenge for a reason, and will be unrepentant if you are ill prepared.
- Have your nutrition down and have faith in it. You will have down periods, and don’t over react
- Practice with your gear frequently and use the right equipment for this race.
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