You can't do it without support...together we are stronger!

I know it's been said by many a runner/ultra-runner before, but you really cannot do this without support - friends, family, colleagues...they all have a role to play in getting you to the start line in one piece (even though many of them may not be aware of it!)......and in the best piece you can be (within reason, since the burden of responsibility has to lie within yourself)!  

And it's not always easy...the stresses and strains, the long weekend days away to get those 6 hour+ training runs in to recce the race route when you've been dashing around all week, followed by rest days when you feel frustrated, hungry, grumpy and needy....and neglectful of all the 'duties' you should be doing....but that's why you surround yourself with the best support you can get!

#1 Support Crew!

A massive chunk of that support comes direct from home, and I know and feel more than lucky to have such good support, understanding...and patience (whilst often putting his own priorities to one side).....or maybe I'm just being sentimental since it's my wedding anniversary....  

But friends play a big role too - those close enough to motivate you to get out of bed at 6am on a dark wet windy morning, and those in wider networks, some discovered through Facebook groups, some friends of friends, and some at races, sharing a passion for this crazy ultra-running, and sharing the doubts, the highs and lows, the injuries...but all the time giving you a reality check and sometimes the boost you need to get out there and train!  I've found these sources all really beneficial in training for the Fling (T-13...) and had fun getting out exploring new routes and making new buddies for life!  And that's without even mentioning all the non-running friends and support!

Ultra Bob...possibly the only ultra runner
armed with a water pistol?

Some of the D33 'Facebook' Training Gang at Dario's
memorial post

So, as my injuries heal and tapering begins in earnest, we gotta stay strong, stick together and toe the line, in person or in spirit at 6 am on 27th April (and beyond)!