After driving the course yesterday in a bus filled with other international runners, I can tell you that this course is no joke. Almost zero flat running and lots of unforgiving climbs including the "Big 5" which ends up at over 7,000 feet of elevation gain. Add to it that it is entirely on the man-made hard stuff and I can tell you that this race will chew me up and spit me out.
But from what I've heard, it will also be an experience like no other. Spectators pack this point-to-point run encouraging all runners all the way to the finish. And if that isn't enough, there will be many experienced Comrades runners I will no doubt encounter to aid us novices as well.
While I could definitely be better trained for this run (and that is of no fault other than my own), I should be able to crack the 12 hour cutoff limit and hopefully come in under 10-11 hours. It will not be easy. There will be a lot of walking. There will be a lot of self-pity. There will be a lot of self-doubt. But I will rely on the energy of the spectators and other runners to carry me to the finish. It will no doubt be a singular, amazing experience. And I can't wait to run it wearing our colors and with a smile on my face as long as my body will tolerate.
Me, Kristin + Colin at the course tour yesterday.
Wish us luck!
15 comments:
Best of luck to you Billy. What an awesome race you get to run! I've heard lots about this one -- I think it's way, way bigger than our Boston (more than in length) Have fun!
Good lucky Billy. I am so excited for you all to experience this event. You are going to finish and it will be amazing. We will all be rooting you on from home.
Tear it up Billy! Hope you enjoy your suffering.
So freakin' excited for you!!! You can do that distance no problem so just have fun, skip the self-pity, and just soak in the experience for all of us who are living vicariously through you. GOOOO BILLY!!!
You are going to do great and I can't wait to read the report. High five those spectators with gusto, smile like you've never smiled before and remember, every step is one step closer to the finish! <3
Over the past 28 years of running 155 marathons and 24 ultras, NOTHING I've run has been anywhere near Comrades in the fun department. It is simply the greatest race available to mankind. Savor every second -- your review can't come quickly enough -- good luck tomorrow!!!
Good luck Billy - that is one heck of a race - you will really be part of an amazing tradition soon!
Sub 10, solid run dude.
Congratulations, Billy. You did it!
Wow. I am so impressed.
what an amazing experience!! hope it went well yo. can't wait for the recap and pics.
congrats on a great race out there dude! looks like you're enjoying the rest of the trip. can't wait to hear about it in person!
Wow, sounds like and incredible journey! Hope it’s going great. Look forward to hearing more. – Jonah
Living' the dream! Best of luck to you. I think it's awesome that you get to kill two birds with one stone: travelling and running. Love it!
Good luck Billy, I wish you strength and a smiling finish.
It'll be an experience to never forget and a powerful memory for future races which will make you mentally stronger.
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