The start is steady but as we take the lower cut offs through the zig zags I begin to feel it. From then on I seem to be going backwards. Lots of runners pass me, one is concerned for my welfare. Then after we leave the main path and turn towards the Red Burn and half way I hit rock bottom. I stop for a drink in the burn and eat some sweets. The thought of giving up there and then is seriously considered.
A few others around me appear to be struggling equally but decide to push on to half way as we are in danger of missing the cut off. I don't know if it was this or the refreshments but I do recover slightly and decide to push on. I know I can keep moving, it is just not so quick. The group I am in do make the cut off and start the long grind to the summit. I find a rhythm an hold my place in the line. This is a relief and I begin to think I might just finish. I have often found the second half of the ascent easier than the first.
The breeze when it comes is cool and refreshing. The leaders pass us on their way down. It seems that every year I am a little lower on the mountain when they come. Familiarity does not make the climb easier. It is a long way to the top. Nor will it lessen the pain of the descent. It is however a great relief to turn and head down. I go well to half way but then the grassy bank really does the damage and from then on I feel like I am hobbling along, quads screaming at every step. I try to avoid any big steps down.
Dropping down the steeper cut offs is real agony, I concentrate on not tripping up. Something I have done several times at this stage. I make it to the road in one piece and sort of jog hobble to the finish. I vow to be fitter and better prepared for next year should I get an entry.
I look a lot better than I feel.
Russell
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