Saturday 7th September 2013
As we head up the M6 on the way to my 13th Ben Nevis race I feel more than a little apprehensive. Not nervous about the race itself but more about how I am feeling about the whole process of coming to a race like this. Having done 12 previous Bens my motivation is low and the ever-resent prospect of completing 21 to receive a commemorative plaque plays on my mind. Should I call it a day? Is it going to be unlucky number 13? Emotions all over the place.
After eating and setting up camp it is soon time to settle down for the night. Not much sleep is usual for me on the first nights camping. Tonight is no different. The morning comes with rain showers and cloud but slowly improves . The race would be run in dry conditions for most and a clear summit. After registration we get prepared. Much debate about what to wear. Shorts and vest seam optimistic at first but once the start approaches I decide to shed the long sleeve top. A good decision. It is very warm on the first half of the climb and I suffer.
The path to half way may be awkward and hard work but I know it will be much worse on the return journey. Above half way it cools and I settle into a good rhythm. The lack of training showing but progress is steady. Running on the summit plateau hurts the feet. Glad to be turning I decide to go at a comfortable pace and not really race back down. This works well and I pass runners when the opportunity arises and quite enjoy myself.
At the grass bank things change. Runners, including me, weave and wobble our way down like bow legged drunks at 11.30pm on Finkle Street on a Saturday night. Legs buckling on the final few steps to the Red Burn. The tourist path as expected is an ordeal. Just an exercise in trying not to fall over (again). This year I manage it but the pace is slow. The road is almost a relief.
My slowest time but I am not disappointed. Actually quite positive. Perhaps if I do some training next year (?) I might do better.
Russell
