It’s the inaugural event hosted by my club, in my backyard. No brainer… Actually though, otherwise I could have employed some logic to deter myself from running a ridiculous distance over Brissie’s most gnarly trails. However, I’m as keen as a tentative bean!

Antics aside, I wouldn’t think twice about entering an event put on by The Trail Co. These guys gave me my start in trail running and their ongoing advice and support continues to drive my passion for the sport.

I’m pretty new to trails. I started trail running after stumbling across The Trail Co during a run in April 2018. I was on my way to Enoggera Reservoir and decided mid-run that my worn out road shoes might not cut it there. I stopped at the shop, bought a pair of trail shoes and have barely hit the road since. In terms of ultra-running, I’m a total noob. I did my first marathon in September 2018 and my first ultra (Blackall 50) the following month. 

Being considered for a spot on this page 😉 This is the first and likely only time my name will be tied to the word ‘athlete’. I’m lapping it up. 

Race wise, crossing the finish line of Blackall 50 (my first ultra) was a massive achievement and to place in my age group was the icing on the cake. Having said that, I’m not spoilt for choice, I’ve only competed in 2 trail races.

Quality beats and banter. ‘From Miley to Yusef’ is a phrase I throw around on long runs from time to time. Arguably, the earlier half of that unlikely duo might by lacking in ‘quality’. When a run starts getting tough, I generally chuck my head phones on and jam out. Alternatively (and preferably), I love a chat. We’re going to be out there a while, if anything, this is a networking opportunity. Failing that, I like to smile and take in the surrounds – that tends to get me further than anything else. 

As always, to finish the event. Having never run 100 km, the distance is inconceivable. Luckily, I can take comfort in the fact that as long as I finish, any time will be a PB for me. At this stage, my goal is to avoid running right through the night. As much as I love catching a sunrise, two before hitting the hay on race day is less then preferable! 

Pippy for the tough love, Libby for the love love (and the snacks… Lib, you do good snacks).

‘It really do be like that sometimes.’