My 2011 new years resolution is to dominate the global ultra scene, so I have created this blog to chart my training progress over the next seven months as I aim for my first 100 miler. I'll be aiming to complete one of either the ultra trail du mont blanc (UTMB to all of us in the know) or the Leadville Trail 100 in the Colorado Rockies.
Should anyone actually read this, you'll understand from the title of this blog that it is not 100% serious, for my quest is to be the greatest blogger in the ultra world as opposed to runner. As talent is absent, humour has to be in abundance. If I don't laugh at myself, others will do it for me. The title of this blog is in reference to two of the greatest ultramarathoners in the world, Dean Karnazes (for promoting the sport) and Tony Krupicka (for being my hero in the sport). Check out their blogs if you want an understanding of the level of training required to be at the top. Keep reading if you want to understand the level of training required to be at the bottom.
The facts of the matter are that I am a bit shit at running. I spent the majority of the last race I did (2010's Atacama Crossing) residing in the medical tent each evening, struggling to rehydrate after a serious bout of the runs (depositing on the desert as opposed to traversing across it unfortunately). It was passing through the eye of a needle. Despite this, I am back for more. My dad pased away three months ago and to help myself keep on keeping on, and to support a couple of chariddies I've decided to tackle one of the toughest ultra experiences, the 100 miler. Not only that, I am determined to run the bugger, even if it kills me. Which it might.
2011 started brilliantly, a bloody great hangover, a 20k hike with the girlfriend and then I fractured my ankle. Forgetting I am a bit fat and that I am in fact not Tony Krupicka or a tarahumarra indian, I bough a pair of New Balance MT101's as a nod towards the minimalist movement sweeping the globe. Essentially the argument is that modern trainers were created by the devil himself and you will go to hell if you wear them, as well as possibly destroy the world. At least I think that is what I read in 'born to run'. Great book, but perhaps a little sensationalist. Anyway, I went on a hike to test them out. I have to say, very comfortable until I hit a rock and fractured my ankle. Very comfortable. Lesson number one learned. I am not an ultrarunner, in fact, technically, by body weight I am two. So I shall go back to chunky supported trainers and accept that I am going to hell.
As I train for the run and generally live the life in Hong Kong, I'll aim to post on here fairly often. The focus will be broad and varied, the training will be limited, the fun will be had and most importantly of all, the humour will never be lost.
Happy New Year, good will to all men (Down with the minimalist movement, bring me padding and support).
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