Connemarathon 2010

[Sweder]

Thank you.
SP reminded me that I've (inevitably) missed a few details. I've invited him to chip in as they may sound better coming from him. There's also more to tell; the assault on Croagh Patrick is an epic all its own, and there are some great photos from that day too. I'll add this later.

My overriding sense is of an adventure that I observed rather than took part in. There was a kind of surreal stream running through the weekend. None of it really makes sense in the cold light of day. It sounds churlish and arrogant to suggest it was easy, but pain aside it really wasn't that bad. It certainly laid to rest the spectre of my Two Oceans agonies, and has given me pause for thought on my running future. 'Adventure running' - a clumsy term that I'll no doubt improve upon - seems to be the (long) way forward for me.

I mention Born To Run a few times. I cannot over-emphasise the affect this book had on my Connemarathon experience. Had I not read it in the weeks before I've no doubt I would not have completed the Ultra. I owe a huge debt of thanks to Antonio too. If we'd pursuaded him to drop the Ultra and find a way into the Half I never would have had this opportunity. He remained resolute in the face of incredulity. 'Do not underestimate the determination of a quiet man.' Gracias Amigo.