Team Athletes:

Kaytlyn Gerbin, Zach Miller

 Athlete Tested. Expedition Proven.™
Engineered with the input of elite athletes. Tested
on the world’s toughest terrain. Summit Series™
features innovative technologies that keep
you going mile after mile.
GPT 100 MILER
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COVER: With the sun on her back and the mountains at her feet, Australian trail
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Stapylton.
IMAGE: Aaron Collins
THIS SHOT: : A relay team runner on Leg 1 of the Margaret River Ultra Marathon 80km
course in the south west of WA. This location is in the early stages of the race through
single track sections in the heart of the heathland in the karri forest.
IMAGE: Astrid Volzke
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Trail Running acknowledges and shows respect for the Traditional Custodians of
Australia and Aotearoa, and their Elders, past, present and emerging.
DISCLAIMER Trail running and other activities described in this magazine can carry significant risk of injury
or Death, especially if you are unfit. Undertake any trail running or other outdoors activity only with proper
instruction, supervision, equipment and training. The publisher and its servants and agents have taken all
reasonable care to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication and the expertise of its
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the publisher nor any of its servants or agents will be held liable for any loss or injury or damage resulting from
any attempt to perform any of the activities described in this publication, nor be responsible for any person/s
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S upe ri or 6
Light weight. Fast trails.

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CONTENTS EDITION 48 // 2023 // AU/NZ

16. DREAM RUN 90. SHOE REVIEW

TRAIL MIX
10. EDITOR’S COLUMN
16. DREAM RUN: BHUTAN SNOWMAN RACE
20.
22.
PEAK PERFORMANCE: CREATING FLOW
NEW! COACH’S AID STATION
REVIEWS
26. TRAIL CREW: LIVE TO RUN TRAIL 12. ALL THE GOOD GEAR: PRODUCT REVIEWS
26. EAT, SLEEP, RUN: ENERGY PACKED RISOTTO 18. EVENT PREVIEWS: TANIWHA
84. OFF THE BEATEN TRACK: BREATHTAKING RUNS 26. BOOK REVIEW: DAVID WILLIAMS
98. WISE WORDS: SIMON HARRIS 90. SHOE REVIEW: TNF ENDURIS 8

30. CAN WE GET TRAIL RUNNING TO THE OLYMPICS?

FEATURES
30. OLYMPIC DREAMS FOR 2032 BRISBANE GAMES
36. DARE TO DREAM: IT STARTED WITH BODYBUILDING
42. MAD MISSION: OUT IN COLORADO, USA
48. GNARLY TALES: ALL ABOUT THE GRAMPIANS
54. RUNNING ON IMPACT: FROM ROAD TO TRAIL
62. GETTING OUT OF THE FINISHER’S DARK HOLE
66. RACE REPORTS
72. CONTRIBUTION: PREPPING FOR A 50KM
78. CONTRIBUTION: THE DR’S 4 DESERTS GRAND SLAM

8
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10

OlympicSTATUS
here’s a topic covered in this edition of Trail
T Run Mag that I’m super hyped about, and
it’s all to do with pushing and campaigning
to take our beloved sport to the top of world
eventing – the Olympic Games.
There are so many reasons why trail running
deserves Olympic status, and if I were to go on
about it, I could very well take up every single
page of this edition.
As someone who interviews people and writes
for a living, I get incredible opportunities to
talk to not only a wide range of athletes who
showcase trail running with the upmost pride
and representation, but with race directors and
organisers whose passions lie so much deeper
than you’d have ever considered. These are the
individuals you can rely on to make big noise
when it comes to putting forward an idea and
making it happen – having said that though,
you too can raise your voice and encourage the
game players to put trail running on the world
stage by getting involved.
Yes, we have World Championships for trail
and ultra; they’re stand-alone events attracting
elite runners and their supporters. On an
international scale, there are a few – count
them, few – races that Aussies and Kiwis can
compete at after meeting specific criteria, but
on many occasions each athlete needs to find a
way to fund themselves to get there. On some
level, member-based groups like the Australian
Ultra Runners Association (AURA) and others
do offer to cover those costs, yet for other
events, sponsorships can be hard to come by.
With trail running given official Olympic
positioning, can you just imagine what
that would mean to athletes who dream of
representing their country but are unable to
cover their own funds? Sponsorships would be
coming in from all the outfields. And if given
the chance to run on a world stage where it’s
SETTING SIGHTS ON
not just running enthusiasts who spectate,
it’s an opportunity to showcase the sport and
really demonstrate its popularity, fortitude and
capability to what the human body can achieve.
Trail running is a sport. That’s a sentence all on
its own. I agree that for many, it’s a recreational
activity with so much personal meaning; and
for others, it’s life. Life is built around trail
running, not the other way around. These are
the athletes who put in the exorbitant hard
yards, are in constant training mode, who
don’t falter from nutritional plans, who run
more than 90km per week, who have their eyes
set on breaking national records and taking
podium finishes.
So the question is…what makes these elite
trail athletes any different to those competing
at the Games in rowing, rugby, swimming
and fencing…in archery, water polo and
weightlifting?
Let me tell you a little story here that has
complete relevance, trust me. Believe it or not,
I’m a 1st Dan black belt in taekwondo. Well
and truly retired now, I was in my prime at
the age of 18 winning tournaments in both
forms (poomse) and fighting. Hell, I was darn
great at it; I was a podium placer. And as any
person that young, I had a dream – to go to the
Olympic Games. It even says so underneath my
senior school photo in my yearbook, so I have
proof in case you ever ask.
It was all I wanted to do in the late 1990s;
I trained every day after school and I used
to teach in-between training blocks – my
students ranged from ages three to 95. I lived
and breathed taekwondo. My family didn’t
come from wealth by any means, but at every
opportunity spared they supported all the
moves I wanted to make. Attend a training
camp with American Olympians Herb Perez
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
and Juan Moreno, and All American Open
Grand Champion Mark Williams? Sure. Change
teachers and get my parents to drive 45 minutes
twice a week to be coached by Senegal’s
Olympic champion Abdoulaye N’Gom?
Absolutely – in fact, Master N’Gom was the
teacher who tested and then presented me with
my black belt in 1998.
Back track a bit when ten years earlier in
1988, taekwondo was put forward at the
Seoul Olympics as a demonstration sport –
originating from Korea, the ’88 Games were
the perfect place to do this. Again in 1992, it
was put on demo in Barcelona and by the time
2000 rolled around, taekwondo became a full
medal sport at the Sydney Games – and it’s
been included ever since then.
My point being is that despite my passion at the
time being a demonstration sport, I had hope
of making it to the Games one day (as you can
see, I’m not talking about winning any gold
medals here as life went down a completely
different road). But because of the sport being
put on display, I had every ounce of ambition to
get there due to knowing it was 100% possible
that my sport could go from ‘demo’ to ‘official’.
The same can be said for campaigning trail
running to the Games. The 2032 Brisbane
Games are the perfect setting to have our
favourite sport included, demonstration or
official.
It gives hope to anyone and everyone who has
a dream.
KATE DZIENIS
EDITOR
11
ALL THE GOOD GEAR
PATAGONIA DOWN SWEATER
REVIEW BY KATE DZIENIS
HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE IT WHEN YOU FIND A
PIECE OF CLOTHING AND IT’S BEEN MADE WITH
RECYCLABLES?
It’s absolutely brilliant, both ethically and
sustainably, that Patagonia’s most iconic piece of
gear – the Down Sweater – is made from fishing
nets that could have otherwise ended up floating
around the oceans and threatening our creatures
of the deep.
The ever popular Down Sweater has been re-
designed with improved performance and reduced
impact in mind. By puffy jacket, I’m not talking
about one of those 1990s gangsta, rapper-style
‘original puffers’ that make you look like a gigantic
cloud baby living on marshmallow milk. This
particular puffer is smooth and silky without the
real big ‘puff’ look – and I love it!
I took it out on a couple windy mornings and some
light rain evenings in late autumn and quickly
realised why it’s one of the most popular items
on the Patagonia menu – the adaptability this
jacket gives you is second to none, and I found
myself wearing it not only for runs, but on my dog
walks and other errands or activities. The Down
Sweater is 100% suited for other special interests
too like hiking, camping, and climbing because it’s
essentially windproof; combined with day-to-day
TNF SUMMIT HIGH TRAIL RUN SHORT SLEEVE SHIRT
REVIEW BY KATE DZIENIS
MADE FOR ENDURANCE AND CHALLENGING
CONDITIONS, The North Face’s Summit High
Trail Run Short Sleeve shirt is the perfect partner
for training and racing in all conditions – and I
was lucky enough to give this high-end fabric a go!
That, and the LED Yellow colour is prime choice
for anyone who loves adding a splash of their
personality to the trails.
Down to the nitty gritty of this slim fit shirt which
TNF calls ‘coupe slim’ due to its darted seams
(a type of sewing method to ensure shape for
body contouring). It’s made with FlashDry-Pro™
materials that pull moisture away, designed to
repel and resist wetting out to help provide quick
drying performance that keeps you dry. This tech
is engineered to act like a second skin against
skin, pushing moisture to the surface of the fabric
and eliminating it as fast as possible. Essentially,
the fabric offers the wearer enhanced moisture
management and dry time, with FlashDry-Pro
found in TNF’s most highly aerobic pieces.
12
wear, you’re absolutely getting bang for your buck
here.
Whilst using it on the trails in those chilly
conditions, my range of motion was never
compromised nor was it ever restricted – top
points! There are two hand pockets at the front
both with ‘invisible’ zips, two deep inside open
pockets, and the inside-left chest pocket allows you demonstrate demand for better animal welfare
to stuff the whole jacket in, zip and loop ribbon practices in the down and feather supply chain.
included – incredibly convenient when you want to
take it off but don’t want to tie it around your waist. Durable shell fabric made of NetPlus®, 100%
post-consumer recycled nylon ripstop made from
For those of you who love a good zipper (it’s the
ASMR for me), the centre-front zipper has an recycled fishing nets (from local fishermen along
interior storm flap, and there’s a zipper ‘garage’ at the coast of South America), this is the jacket
the chin for next-to-skin comfort. Inside the jacket, you need to keep on hand throughout the year. I
there was a little tissue paper-covered repair patch received the Light Plume Grey colour for testing,
kit for quick fixes – I had no idea what this was which has accents of light blue on the sleeves and
initially, but wow. A brilliant idea to include in the around the collar, but there are a variety of other
event of a rip or tear while out and about. colours on hand to suit everyone’s tastes including
The Patagonia Down Sweater isn’t form fitting. It’s Hemlock Green, New Navy, Black, Sound Blue,
not tight at the very bottom and isn’t designed to Evening Mauve, Dusky Brown and Rustic Purple.
be short at the waist. Sitting slightly longer, which
I really do like, it’s oh so warm – for those who like
tech talk: the insulation comes from 800-fill- VITALS
power 100% Responsible Down Standard down
certified by Control Union. What does this mean? RRP $399.95 AUD / $459.99 NZD
It means your purchase of the Down Sweater will PATAGONIA.COM.AU / PATAGONIA.CO.NZ
I don’t get too sweaty in colder weather, but when
I hit the treadmill to test the fabric, it sure didn’t
disappoint.
The flat-seamed bonded neckline in the Summit
High Trail Run Short Sleeve shirt didn’t leave me
pulling down on the collar either. There’s nothing
worse than going for a decent training run and
constantly pulling down at the neck because of
that choking feeling; TNF’s design has left enough
space in this area without going for a v-neck that
us women really enjoy. The sides down at the very
bottom feature split seams for improved mobility,
and the lower back fabric length is slightly longer
This is a technical product by TNF and should be
than the front.
used to its complete advantage by trail runners. It’s
Without fail, and as always…something I love fully recycled and is an easy choice to make when
about the TNF brand, the shirt has reflective heat hunting for the next high tech shirt to race in.
transfer logos on the left chest and back-right
Love me some neon LED yellow.
shoulders to allow enhanced visibility by others in
foggy or early morning/late evening light. And the VITALS
logos don’t take away from the overall stylish look
RRP $120 AUD / $129.50 NZD
of the shirt either.
THENORTHFACE.COM.AU / THENORTHFACENZ.NET
 Photo: Brendan Davis © 2023 Patagonia, Inc.

We run with our local communities and a

shared history. With our mentors, the next
generation, and perspectives.
Community is something we construct; out of shared ambitions
and common ground, out of a desire to take on difficult things
and to change the way things are done. We run with others to
finish what we started, and to share the view.
ALL THE GOOD GEAR
RED PADDLE ACTIVE JACKET
REVIEW BY KATE DZIENIS
THIS WATERPROOF JACKET IS DA BOMB.
I really mean it. And not just because it looks
absolutely fantastic on me, I love parading around
in it, but it 100% does the job of everything Red
Paddle claims it to do.
Marketed as ‘light, packable and waterproof’ I will
write a strong yes, yes, yes to all three assertions.
Even though the label is known for its paddleboards
and changing robes (which, by the way, are the
perfect solution to those awkward car park
changes when you’re going from bathers to regular
clothing), this waterproof jacket is the perfect
waterproof product for its entry into targeting trail
runners.
I have a few raincoats that I’ve used before whilst
out on the tracks, and though the Active Jacket
doesn’t feel like it’s made from heavy duty fabric,
it certainly held up to the test keeping me dry and
comfortable without feeling like I was overheating
– that is a major issue in some of my other
waterproof and water resistant jackets, and it can
get unbearably annoying when the heart starts to
pump that little bit harder. It certainly helps to have
the air vent holes in the underarms for cooling,
and the fit is perfect enough to fit a light running
jumper underneath without me appearing like the
Incredible Hulk and scaring children away. I didn’t
SPRING ENERGY
REVIEW BY GILES PENFOLD
RUNNING NUTRITION. HATE IT OR LOVE IT – IT
DOESN’T REALLY MATTER.
The fact is it’s inescapable, and to make things
even better (or worse), there’s an overabundance
of choice out there. Some products will wreak
havoc on your body, while others will get you a PB.
Choose wisely!
Enter Spring Energy, a sports nutrition company
that brings genuine, real food to the table. Unlike
other industry players producing highly processed
bars and sludges, Spring Energy aims to ‘bring back
the joy of training and racing without GI problems,
sugar highs, dips and negative effects of low quality
ingredients and chemicals’.
As a quick preface, due to nasty stomach issues in
the past, I avoid running gels like the plague. I’m
sceptical and somewhat hesitant going into this
little experiment.
Oh dear, here we go again. I’m mid-run, ripping open
my first gel in over four years. *Slurp*. The sludge
goes down the hatch. Apprehension fills my body.
14
feel the need to strip it off either as I warmed up or
went on the inclines, I was totally happy keeping
it on as the raindrops kept coming (running in the
rain is my favourite!).
Water-tight pockets and zips on each side are large
enough for a modern phone, debit card and keys,
and there are Velcro cuffs to accommodate your
personal wrist size to keep any breeze or wind at
bay. On top of that, one of the other awesome
features I really liked was the fact I was able to
tighten the hood not only from the front on both
sides, but from the back too – clever, clever. There’s
also the option of rolling the hood ‘away’ into a
pocket, securing it with Velcro, so it's not bouncing
up and down behind you if the rain has stopped
and you don’t fancy having it on. There’s also reflective trim to ensure safety
outdoors in low light conditions.
The Red Paddle Active Jacket is lightweight enough
to pack down small into a pocket compartment. For the techy in all of us, the Active Jacket has 4-way
Folding it down can be done by opening the left stretch, 5k/5k waterproof, Blue Sign approved
pocket, pulling the fabric out from the inside, and fabric which allows for full range of movement for
then pushing, or ‘squishing’, the jacket into the
running. I absolutely approve, I love it.
pocket. Once in, there is a separate zip to close it
shut, the branding is labelled so you remember
what it is, and there’s a bungee cord with clip to
attach to anything you like. Once you get to an aid VITALS
station and let’s say you don’t require the jacket
anymore, it’s easy to store it like this in your drop RRP $200.37 AUD
bag without any chance of losing it. RED-EQUIPMENT.COM.AU
An energy surge ensues. Surely it’s only a matter
of time before I feel queasy. Fifteen kilometres
and two more gels later – nothing. My body feels
surprisingly good, stronger than usual even.
Turns out it’s not luck. My scepticism gradually
dissipates as dozens of training runs are fuelled
by Spring Energy. Long runs, tempos, and speed
sessions get the tick of approval from my stomach,
not to mention from a performance standpoint.
The gels aren’t sickly sweet either, and have a
slightly tart taste. I’m converted.
To make sure I’m still prone to stomach issues, I
experiment with a stock standard maltodextrin gel
and surprise, surprise…my stomach isn’t happy. 15mg of caffeine).
Spring Energy is its antithesis. All ingredients are Keep your eyes out for their sample packs, a great
100% natural and there’s a wide variety of gels and
first step to find out what works for you
powders to choose from. I cycle through different
products based on their flavour, caffeine content,
VITALS
and overall calories and carb content.
My personal favourites are the ‘Awesome Sauce’ RRP 2-PACK $15 AUD
(180cal and 45g of carbs) and the ‘Koffee’ (210cal and MYSPRINGENERGY.COM.AU
 TO ASCEND
EQUIPPED

Level vert and let distance eat your dust in

the Catamount 2, featuring the all-new
SkyVault propulsion plate — engineered to
help enhance uphill efficiency so you can
reach the summit sooner.
Shop now at brooksrunning.com.au
 DREAM RUN
WORDS: KATE DZIENIS IMAGE: THE SNOWMAN RACE SECRETARIAT
THE UNFORGETTABLE SNOWMAN
Covering more than 203km through the
wild and challenging terrains with mountain
passes as high as 5470m, the Snowman Race
in Bhutan (South Asia) is an ultra marathon
testing the world’s fittest and most elite
runners to help raise awareness of the
impacts of climate change.
This race of a lifetime follows the trail of
the famous Snowman Trek, which has been
completed by fewer people than Everest and
is one of the toughest treks in the Himalayas.
Bhutan, often referred to as Land of the
Thunder Dragon, is one of the most isolated
nations on earth – nestled between India,
Nepal, Tibet, Bangladesh and the People’s
Republic of China in the Eastern Himalayas.
And now you can run it.
16
Spanning across five days, a small group of
extreme runners have the ability to attempt
one of the most remote and challenging foot
races ever initiated.
Is it odd that automatically some names of
runners I know pop up in my head for me to
put the suggestion to?
The Snowman Race follows a historic
high-altitude trekking route of Snowman
Trek (which normally takes up to 20 days to
complete), with the race drawing inspiration
from the prescient wisdom of the nation’s
King on conservation of natural and cultural
heritage. The event aspires to bring the
world’s attention to climate change and its
impacts, particularly on the lives of people
living in fragile mountain ecosystems.
So take out your maps and find your starting
and finish lines – from Gasa Dzong through
to Chamkhar, Bumthang the entire area
offers the most insanely beautiful landscapes
you will ever witness. Sadly, researchers have
discovered that the glaciers of the Himalayas
are melting twice as fast than in the 20th
century and have no snow replacement
taking place, with two-thirds of the glaciers
predicted to be gone by the turn of the next
century.
Take a stand for changing the world while at
the same time, testing yourself beyond the
limits.
Host: Snowman Race
Destination: Bhutan
ISSUE 47 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

17
EVENT PREVIEW
WORDS: BRYCE GREEN IMAGES: SUPPLIED

FEISST
GROUP
TANIWHA
North Island,
New Zealand
Following the mighty Waikato River, the
Feisst Group Taniwha will take you on a
scenic point-to-point journey along pristine
trails, boardwalks, native bush and even the
odd swing bridge.
Finishing on an island in the middle of Lake
Whakamaru (one of the most spectacular
locations in the South Waikato), this event will EVENT
test even the most seasoned trail runner, while
also being a great event for families and first Feisst Group Taniwha
timers.
WHEN
11 November 2023
The addition of more trail north of Mangakino
in 2022 has seen the marathon increase to DISTANCE
a 44km ultra consisting of 95% trail! In fact, 44km, 22km, 16km, 7km
all courses consist of more than 95% very
runnable trails with surprises all along the way. WHERE
Waikato River Trails,
North Island, NZ
The Feisst Group Taniwha is an event for
mountain bike riders too, so if you’re a trail MORE
runner who likes to jump up a gear on a thetaniwha.co.nz
two-wheel mode of transportation, you’re
encouraged to go for gold!

It’s a great weekend away with friends or

family, with amazing food, activities for the
kids and even accommodation on site.

The best part is that $12 from every entry goes

directly to the Waikato River Trails Trust
so they can continue to not only build and
maintain trails, but re-plant the surrounding
areas in native bush.

So wind your way through all the spectacular

native bush, exotic forest, historic landmarks,
open reserves, boardwalks over wetlands
and stunning single track, because the Feisst
Group Taniwha is a race you don’t want to
have FOMO over.

REGISTRATIONS OPEN 7 MAY 2023.

18
PEAK PERFORMANCE
WORDS: BRAD DIXON IMAGE: EVERSTE

“When we get too caught up

in the busyness of the world,
we lose connection with one
another – and ourselves.”
Jack Kornfield.

20

BE HERE Now
TO CREATE
There is a real shift towards mindfulness in the health and wellness
sector. Everyone is talking about being ‘present’.
Most wellness publications have a piece on mindfulness with a
different perspective. Sometimes the mindfulness message gets
complicated, getting lost in new age hippie translation, however
practising mindfulness will help in all aspects of our lives including
dominating running moments on the trail!
I wanted to break it down so mindfulness can be applied right away
in your day. Being present on your task at hand will allow you to
move towards the best you can be in life and in running – plus our
world will benefit.
Most of us have several different roles that we must flux between
– sometimes on a moment-to-moment basis. Living and being
grounded in the now is the best way to work on your mindfulness
practice in an authentic way.
Society will have us believe that multi-tasking is the answer to our
busyness crisis. The most asked question these days ‘How are you?;
with the stock standard answer being ‘busy’. This fragmented way
of living with our thoughts forever in a game of chasing your tail is
only useful for breeding a disease within your system. If your mind
and body (thoughts and actions) are not in sync then it creates an
anxiety on the border of your consciousness that elevates your
stress response.
Living in this way will contribute to chronic fatigue. I believe not
being present and having that disconnect between body and mind
is a massive component to poor eating routines. Mindful eating
(slowing down, appreciating food, sitting with others, saying grace,
not watching a screen) helps us differentiate between eating for
nourishment and just a habit.
Staying focused on your role now and doing it to the best of your
ability allows your mind and body to align aiding the state of flow
and clarity. Flow is when there is little resistance to actions, not
needing to overthink the task. This doesn’t mean the task is easy,
it might in fact be very challenging – but just like trying to catch of
bar of slippery soap you will have a better chance of catching it if
you use soft relaxed hands rather that grabbing at it with intense
effort.
To work towards this type of effortless in-the-moment living we
need to understand our role in the present, and once you have
given your best at that role in your day then there is less resistance
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
Flow
IN LIFE AND TRAILS
or ‘sticking’ when transitioning to the next role.
One method to help prevent sticking or resistance of moving from
task-to-task is to self-acknowledge how you can improve next time,
then let it go. A negative coping strategy that increases sticking
is shifting the blame to others for our poor behaviour and not
accepting responsibility. Owning a mistake is far more empowering
than faking perfection or placing the entire blame on someone else.
Here are some tips to help be more mindful or present:
• Organise your day to allow smooth transition from role to
role. This may require better communication with the family
to ensure there is no confusion over roles the following day,
sending a reminder text, or ensuring your favourite running
shorts are ready to go for the morning’s scheduled run.
• Get a standing desk. Sitting for any more than 3 hrs a day
contributes not only to a host of disease states, but it creates
a ‘shut down’ mode in the body. Sitting deadens the gluts and
shortens our hip flexors, therefore ruining our running stride!
• Schedule meditation. Think of sitting and focusing on your
breath as the ultimate training for body and mind alignment.
Start with 5min and work it up. It’s a great way to get to know
yourself and be less affected with surrounding negativity.
• Schedule in joy daily. Don’t just exist for the weekend or
bi-annual holiday. Have moments in your every day life to look
forward to. Putting joy in your day is not selfish because it
benefits you and your loved ones.
• Take a deep breath. If you feel like you’re unable to focus on
the task at hand, taking a deep breath in the nose allowing the
stomach to expand and then release will help centre and calm
yourself.
• Control your phone, don’t let it control you. Turn off
notifications from social media platforms and have your phone
face down when engaging in tasks so you are not distracted.
Face-to-face communication is slowly being eroded – cherish it.
It’s where the true magic happens.
INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: Brad Dixon is a sports physio, coach and
wellness evangelist at EVERFIT Physio & Coaching. He’s written
a book titled Holistic Human, and believes the power is in our
daily habits. Find him at everfit.co.nz or through his socials @
everfitcoach.
21
THE COACH’S AID STATION
WORDS: ASH DANIELS
SOMETIMES S L O W I N G DOWN
IS THE BEST WAY TO S P E E D U P
As a running coach, I’m fortunate enough
to speak to people about trail running on a
regular basis, and one of the most common
questions I’m asked is, ‘How can I run
faster?’
After reviewing training logs and data, the
most surprising answer to many is, telling
people to slow down. Whilst this sounds
counter intuitive, let's dig into the reasons
for running slow, the why, the what and as
important for you, how slow, should your
slow and easy runs be?
Why Do We Run Slow To Speed Up?
Running easy allows us to build up our
endurance through being able to add more
distance and volume throughout the training
week. Very simply, we can run a lot more
when running easy and gain all the same
benefits without the added stress or risk of
injury of more intense sessions.
Not just taking my word for it, let’s dig into
what the science says about performance
and running slow. There have been several
studies which have concluded that both the
volume of running and the intensity (speed/
pace) at which we run leads to performance
improvements.
A recent study in 2020, using a real-world big
data set, concluded that, ‘Our findings can be
interpreted as faster runners train typically at
lower relative intensities which is consistent with
high-intensity performance improvement due to
low-intensity training.’
Put simply, the study found that faster
runners spend most of their time training
at an easy and relatively slow pace – the key
words being relative intensities. Your easy
pace may be a fast effort for someone else and
too slow for another runner; your easy pace is
specific to you so don’t go chasing those PBs
every run.
How Taking it Easy Improves Running
Performance
Easy runs create several adaptations in the
body that lead to improved performance or
22
running economy. Mitochondrial biogenesis
and capillary density are a couple of the key
ones, meaning we can run our favourite trails
faster with overall less effort.
Mitochondria Biogenesis – mitochondria are
found in the cells of our muscles and are the
powerhouse in the production of energy
during exercise. They convert oxygen and our
energy stores (glycogen, proteins and fats)
into usable energy for the muscles allowing
them to contract, which in turn is us running.
The more mitochondria we have, we can
generate more energy for our muscles to run.
Increased Capillary Density – capillaries are
our smallest blood vessels and deliver oxygen
to our muscles. The larger the number of
capillaries around each muscle fibre, the faster
you can deliver oxygen and fuel (all those gels)
to the muscle and take waste products away,
again leading to that quicker pace, whilst
feeling easier.
Additionally, we become better fat adapted,
in that we use a higher percentage of fat as
a fuel source during these easy runs. During
racing and events, that translates to us relying
slightly less on what’s available at the aid
stations.
So knowing the why and what, let’s jump into
what it means for you and your training for
that next big trail race.
How Slow Should I Be Running & How
Often?
We know through research that those at
the pointy end of any trail race will practice
most of their training at a relatively easy
pace (remember your easy pace will not be
anything near an elite runner’s easy pace),
whilst only a small number of us recreational
runners practice this.
There are a few ways to work out your easy
pace; some require medical devices, not
available to many runners, or using heart rate
and power if you have the equipment. The
one method all trail runners can embrace
requires no technology at all and that is a
rating of perceived exertion or RPE.
RPE has proven to be highly effective, all you
need is a scale of 1-10, where 1 means you’re
sitting watching a movie, and 10 is that all-out
hill sprint. Another great reason for using RPE
is because during a trail race everything else
is irrelevant except how you feel at that time,
be it running a steep trail to summit in the
blazing sun, or doing a fast descent, it really is
about how you feel at that time.
So where should be aiming for in the RPE
scale and how do we know if we are running
easy? We can gauge this through a talk test,
anything between 4 to 6 on the RPE scale
can be classed as easy or normal running.
At this pace you should be able to hold a
conversation very easily with your training
partner, without pausing. Anything over this
and you starting to push it a little too hard.
How much of your training should be easy?
This depends on your event and distance.
For ultra distances you could do nearly all
your training easy whilst for other events
there are numerous approaches to training,
and you won’t go wrong if at least 70 to 80%
of your time is spent at that easy pace.
Next time you head out, remember slow and
easy wins the day:
• A slower pace is relative to you, don’t
compare your pace to others
• It can take a little getting used to but
persevere and you’ll reap the benefits
• Do the talk test, if you can’t hold a
comfortable conversation, slow down
It’s highly unlikely you’ll run too slow though.
INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: Ash Daniels is a
Level-3 Athletics Australia Performance
Development coach at Journey2Ultra
coaching, where he specialises in trail and
ultra running. He coaches runners of all
abilities and distances, believing everyone
is a runner; just that some of us need a
bit more help in getting going. Ash can be
found at journey2ultra.com.au
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

23
BOOK CLUB REVIEW
AN UNSTOPPABLE RUNNER
BY DAVID WILLIAMS
In An Unstoppable Runner, author
David Williams tells the story of his
lifelong running adventure.
In his easy-to-read book, he describes
the physical and mental challenges he’s
faced in such diverse locations like the
blister-making Simpson Desert, muddy
New Zealand forests as well as many
other international marathons and
ultras.
Well known ultra runner Pat Farmer
(who recently ran around Australia
for ‘The Voice’) wrote the foreword to
this inspirational book, saying ‘David
Williams has been able to tap into the
very core of an ultra runner’s motivation,
to discover who they really are…David
24
takes us on a journey to many countries
and climates through decades of time
to prove that we were meant to run the
corners of this world and experience
every aspect of life’. And, perhaps, this is
the very core of the stories told.
David is able to see the funny side of the
hardships we put ourselves through and
certainly doesn’t hesitate to make fun of
his own setbacks during training or races.
Readers will enjoy the different
quotations at the beginning of each
chapter as they relate perfectly well to the
contents. His stories will inspire new trail
runners to get out there and find their
own adventures, as well as reminding
those of us who have been running the
trails for decades what a long run feels
like – it’ll make you want to put on your
running gear and head out the door
straight away.
The book describes David’s running
career covering more than 40 years and
whilst it’s clear that he may be just an
ordinary middle-of-the-pack runner, his
experiences will be very familiar. Like so
many of us, the story starts with building
up to a 5km race, and then becoming
obsessed by marathons before finding the
world of trail ultras.
Interestingly, David was racing in ultra
marathons back in the 1980s and it
was fascinating to read about how the
running world was back then, before
gels and power bars came into being;
even before proper training plans were
available to everyday runners.
There have been some really tough times
in his life, but David dealt with many
of them by going for a run; sometimes
they went all-night and, although he
acknowledges that he was running away
from reality, those runs were essential
to his mental well-being. On some level,
we can all relate to how our favourite
sport can help us in other ways than just
keeping fit and healthy.
After all those years of running ultras,
David has come face-to-face with the
inexorable forces of getting older and
describes brilliantly the ageing factors
that we all must come to terms with.
He has experienced the slowing down,
despite working harder and harder to
fight it but he has never lost his love for
the sport nor his sense of humour, which
comes across so strongly.
An Unstoppable Runner was written
to raise funds for the Cancer Council
in Australia and you can easily find
copies on Amazon or, if you would like
a personally signed copy, David will
be delighted to mail one to you if you
contact him at
flinders.runner@hotmail.com
TRAIL CREW LIVE TO RUN TRAIL
ANSWERED BY: EMILY HUNT IMAGES: BART MORAWIEC, JONATHAN SCOTT
LIVE TO RUN TRAIL
How did your group begin?
What started as a few hardy souls being trained
by one or two coaches then morphed into a
large trail running community with some of the
best local trail names in Christchurch coaching
a group of enthusiastic individuals. Covid and
lockdowns put a halt to group runs in 2020 but
once social mingling was allowed, a core group
of about 15 started meeting again at the regular
spot at the regular time. It just took one person
saying, ‘Hey! Let’s start the run club again and
get the coaches back on board’ to get the ball
rolling.
This is where I (Emily) stepped in and formed
a team of the most excellent humans that set
about making it happen. We were extremely
lucky to have a business (Intelligro) support
us from the get go and they have generously
continued to support us to date. One of the
runners’ dads has a business also (Sreka)
which also provided well-needed financial
support and we were off and running – quite
literally.
The aforementioned core group of 15 is now
more regularly a chattering mass of 60-70
happy revellers. We have nine coaches on our
books and they all come with impressive sports
pedigrees including multiple New Zealand
mountain or trail running representatives,
God Zone winners and national title reps for
various distances or terrains. We are such a
blessed group to have these people part of our
community.
Where does the crew run mostly?
We can be found every Thursday, rain or
shine, in the epic terrain that is the Port Hills
in Christchurch. We take different routes each
week and mix up the distances and vert. In
the summer we start at Victoria Park and
then through the winter we move around and
sample other locations around the city including
the forest and varying trails in the hills.
What is the crew’s favourite local trail
and why?
26
There are too many to choose from! I would say
people love the variety we have access to in the
Port Hills. It seems there is always a new trail
to discover and in different lights or weather
conditions they bring a plethora of challenges.
By encouraging rock hopping, zigzagging
across open paddocks or picking out a carefully
disguised sheep track, the variety is truly
limited only by the imagination.
What single piece of advice would you
give a newbie joining your crew?
Go and see Oska or Sam at Frontrunner
Colombo and get a decent pair of trail shoes
that are the best for you and your goals. Sam
is one of our runners and knows a thing or two
about shoes. We are very fortunate to have this
store in Christchurch as Frontrunner Colombo
has the biggest range of trail shoes in the
country.
If your crew was an animal, what would it
be and why?
This took some thinking, but we all agreed
it would be African Painted Dogs. This is an
animal that is continuously chatting, has a big
heart and has a whole lot of energy. The crew
is like a pack animal and they never leave their
sick or injured behind. Also, our members have
cool hair styles and stylish outfits just like their
canine counterparts.
The world is ending. Nominate a trail
anywhere on the planet that your crew
must run. It’s the last trail you’ll ever see.
Where is it?
We would have to run up into the Port Hills
and bag a Sugarloaf summit. Nothing beats
the feeling you get from a pounding heart and
a view shared with friends. If someone was to
appear with a couple of bottles of champagne
or some craft beer to toast the end of the world
that would top it off nicely. From up there we
would probably have a good seat to watch it all
unfold below us.
How have you seen participation in your
group change people and lives?
The whole purpose of this club was to build
a community. We wanted an inclusive and
completely accessible club for anyone who
has a pair of (well-fitted, appropriate) shoes
and a spare hour. On speaking to the coaches,
the main feedback is they love the enthusiasm
and the sound of people chatting and laughing
every Thursday evening.
A bad day can be turned around by the
warmth of the group. Confidences have grown
in running trails, running in the dark and
extending distances. Everlasting friendships
have been created, businesses grown and
networks built all because of the beating heart
of the crew Live To Run Trail
NAME: Live to Run Trail
BIRTHDAY: Summer 2020
REGION: Christchurch, Canterbury, NZ
MEMBERS: 600+
AVERAGE RUNNERS AT EACH HOOK UP: 70
AVERAGE HOOK UPS EACH YEAR: 50
SHOES OWNED IN TOTAL: Too many to
count (Sam owns the most pairs)
UNOFFICIAL CLUBHOUSE: Moon Under
Water, Somerfield, Christchurch
 ADVERTORIAL BRISBANE TRAIL ULTRA

GETTING TO KNOW... Kieran O’Brien is a proud

BRISBANE
family man, plumber,
and lover of all things
TRAIL ULTRA endurance and ultra

il e
10k
TRAIL ULTRA

0m
running. His story is both

10
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2
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30k
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inspiring and heartfelt
as a survivor of chronic

ATHLETES
disease. He aspires to
live a healthy lifestyle
and be a role model as a
father, friend and family
man. We asked Kieran
Devicca Embahe is one about his passion and
of the most unassuming journey into running and
people you would ever
he shared with us his
meet. A quiet achiever,
story.
resilient and always up
for challenges, she’s BTU: What attracted you
always pushing herself to join us at the Brisbane
out of her comfort zone Trail Ultra?
to be a role model for her
children. Kieran: I keep coming
back to BTU because
BTU: What attracted you of how challenging yet
to join us at the Brisbane beautiful the course is. I
Trail Ultra? love how the terrain changes from bushy rolling hills around
Devicca: Stepping out Mt Coo-tha, to the unforgiving climbs through Mount Nebo
of my comfort zone and the energising rainforest of Mount Glorious.
and into something I’ve BTU: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
never done before. This
is my first trail running Kieran: I’m Sydney born and moved to Brisbane at the age
experience, elevation of six with my parents, three brothers and my sister. I studied
is not my strength, but plumbing and now own my own plumbing business. I
this has given me the recently moved to the Gold Coast with my partner Emily and
opportunity to step we have welcomed baby Cora into this world. I absolutely
outside my comfort zone love being a dad and pinch myself at how lucky I am to have
and put my mind and body to the test. In all honesty it’s a lot such beautiful daughter.
harder than road running!
I did cross country throughout high school but I stopped
BTU: Tell us a little bit about yourself. running after that. Then at 23 I was diagnosed with a stage
3 melanoma which had a 23% 10-year survival rate at
Devicca: I am of Papuan heritage from the mountains of
that time. Something had to change! Within six months of
Kokoda, Papua New Guinea. I’m also a single mother of
surgery, I was beginning a healthier lifestyle and saw an
three teenagers, currently caring for my daughter who is in
remission from stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma, working part ad for the Brisbane Marathon which was four weeks away.
time and run coach as often as possible which I absolutely Having recently faced and meditated on my possible death,
love! I concluded the best thing someone could’ve said about my
life achievements to that point was that I could skull a jug of
Home is now Cairns, Far North Queensland where I am part of beer. The longest distance I’d ever run before that marathon
the Indigenous Marathon Foundation and I am a run leader/ was 13km then never looked back from there. Celebrating 10
coach for their running and walking group. years cancer free, I did the inaugural BTU 100 Miler which is
one of my fondest memories.
My running journey began in 2015. It was at a very challenging
time in my life, I’m a survivor of domestic violence, whilst BTU: Any noteworthy trail run experiences?
also suffering from anxiety and depression, this led to
homelessness with my children. There would be days were I Kieran: I have mistaken sheep’s eyes as markers (they
would envision my future, a vision of myself getting active, to glow in the dark when light shines on them) so I went a few
keep up with my children. I pictured stability for us as a family, hundred meters off course, jumping a fence, only to realise I
a vision of a healthy lifestyle for us. was standing next to a sheep. In a different race I saw a UFO.
That was at about the 200km mark, so that one might have
That is what brought me to buying a pair of runners. Initially been sleep deprivation and natural pain killers kicking in.
I did this to support my friend in her Indigenous Marathon
Project journey. Sharing Coast to Kosci with my two brothers supporting me
was great. Completing the 200 Miler in South Australia with a
Instantly I felt improvements in my mental and physical health, good crew was nothing short of perfection.
my confidence grew, which then had a ripple effect in other
areas of my life. Everything I envisioned was happening. BTU: Words of wisdom for other runners?
I’ve never stopped running with the IMF runners since, they’re Kieran: Run Happy as this then overflows into every part of
the most inspiring group to be a part of. your life.

ENTRIES FOR 2024 EVENTS OPEN ON OCTOBER 18, 2023. VISIT BRISBANETRAILULTRA.EARTH

27
 EAT, SLEEP, RUN
WORDS AND IMAGE: GABY VILLA

ENERGY-PACKED RISOTTO
Fancy making a delicious meal the night before your race? Get in the kitchen and whip up this high-impact, energy-packed risotto and share it with us on
Insta by tagging us at @trailrunmag

PREPARATION TIME: 15 minutes TOTAL TIME: 1 hour SERVINGS: 4

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for

trail runners. Your body uses a significant amount of
carbohydrate to help you get through long, intense runs;
and they predominantly come from three main sources:
the glycogen stored in your liver, the glycogen stored in
your muscles and the glucose circulating in your blood.
Think of glycogen as your premium fuel tank – the only
way to increase the carbohydrates stored in that tank is
by consuming carbohydrates in your diet. This is why
increasing your carbohydrate intake before long, intense
efforts such as races or big training sessions is helpful to
increasing your energy throughout your run, sustaining a
quicker pace for longer and, consequently, improving your
performance.
Topping up your energy reserves before a race or activity is
known as carbohydrate loading. Research has shown that
carbohydrate loading for endurance athletes increases time
to exhaustion by about 20% on average and improves time
trial results by about 2 to 3%.
By being high in carbohydrates and low in fat, this delicious
tomato risotto can be a perfect meal to include as part of
your carb-loading protocol ahead of your next race or as a
carb-focused meal the night before your next long run.

INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS NUTRITION PER SERVING

• 1 cup arborio rice 1. Preheat the oven to 205ºC (400ºF) • Calories: 264
2. Use a food processor to crush the tomatoes • Carbohydrates: 47g
• 3 cups vegetable broth
3. In an oven safe dish, add rice, broth, crushed • Fibre: 1g
• 4 tomatoes
tomatoes and thyme. Stir well, cover the • Sugar: 1g
• 10g fresh thyme
dish tightly with tin foil or a lid. Bake in the
• 1tsp sea salt • Protein: 9g
oven for 35 to 45 minutes or until the rice
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional) • Fat: 4g
is cooked
4. Stir in the parmesan cheese (optional) and
salt. Adjust seasoning to your taste
NOTES 5. Enjoy!

• Leftovers: refrigerate for up to three days

• Serving size: one serving is approximately one cup
• For more flavour: add zucchini, capsicum and garlic powder
• For additional toppings: add basil or coriander

INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: Gaby Villa is a sports nutritionist, dietitian and founder of IntensEATfit who specialises in optimising
performance for ultra runners by making food their best ally in sport and life. Find her online at intenseatfit.com for more info.

28
WHERE DOES YOUR
NEXT TRAIL LEAD?
FIND OUT AT MOUNTAINDESIGNS.COM

E S T. 1 9 7 5 B O R N O F T H E M O U N TA I N S
FEATURE

IF YOU LIKE IT THEN

YOU SHOULDA PUT AN

RING ON IT
(You sung that, didn’t you?)

WITH AN ESTIMATED 20 MILLION PARTICIPANTS SINCE 2010,

TRAIL RUNNING HAS BECOME ONE OF THE WORLD’S FASTEST
GROWING SPORTS (ACCORDING TO INTERNATIONAL TRACK
AND FIELD FEDERATION). WITH THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS
ONLY BEING A PAIR OF SHOES AND HAVING THE GREAT
OUTDOORS SOMEWHERE CLOSE BY, THERE ARE NOW
MORE THAN 25,000 RACES ACROSS 195 COUNTRIES WITH
NEARLY 2 MILLION REGISTERED COMPETITORS.

SO WITH THE NUMBERS SO LARGE, ISN’T IT TIME WE GET

THE SPORT RECOGNISED AT AN OLYMPIC LEVEL? KATE
DZIENIS DELVES INTO THE POTENTIAL OF INTRODUCING
TRAIL RUNNING TO THE OLYMPICS AND THE PARALYMPICS,
AND DISCOVERS A PUSH HAS JUST STARTED, HARD AND
FAST, TO GET THE SPORT INTO THE 2032 BRISBANE GAMES.

WORDS: KATE DZIENIS

IMAGES: JOEP BUIJS, DOMINIC CHAPLIN,
ELEMENT PHOTOGRAPHY, DOMINIC MURPHY

30
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

A runner enjoys A creek crossing at the Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra.
Image: Dominic Chaplin.

31
FEATURE IF YOU LIKE IT THEN YOU SHOULDA PUT AN OLYMPIC RING ON IT
Runners hitting the Qld trails at the Brisbane Trail Marathon.
Image: Joep Buijs.
On April 10, way back when in 1896, a
group of 17 male runners gathered at the
start line of the first modern Summer
Olympic Games in Athens, Greece to run
24.8mi, or 39.9km, to the Panathenaic
Stadium.
After doing a bit of research, I had to chuckle
to myself when I’d learnt that 3rd Place
finisher Spyridon Belokas was disqualified
for ‘hitching a ride in a carriage along part
of the race course’, and the winner – a
Greek man by the name of Spyridon Louis
– became a national hero, only to return to
farm life and never race again.
I guess Louis ticked that off his bucket list
and was happy to leave it at that.
It wasn’t until more than 100 years later
that women were granted an addition to
the marathon program, at the 1984 Summer
Olympics in Los Angeles, with gold medal
winner Joan Benoit clocking in an amazing
32
time of 2:24:52 and inspiring women
everywhere to follow her lead.
Cross country running made its appearance
(for men only) in the 1912, 1920 and 1924
Games, but was quickly cancelled off the
program. In 2020 there was a push by
World Athletics to re-introduce it at the
2024 Games in Paris, with suggestions of a
5km event that would see two men and two
women per nation compete in a mixed-
gender race – but it was rejected. There was
also news doing the rounds in 2017 that
ultra running (regardless if it was meant
to be track, road or trail) was successfully
campaigned for and due to appear at the
2024 Games, but looking at the preliminary
schedule of events dated April 2023, sadly I
don’t see it listed.
It’s now 2023, and trail running has, as
you’re all well aware, blitzed itself on the
athletic scene and is continuously gaining
faster momentum than Japan’s bullet trains.
From my point of view, there are a barrage
of reasons why the sport deserves Olympic
status, and local organising committees have
incredible opportunities here to help make
it happen.
But it all starts with International Olympic
Committee (IOC) recognition, where criteria
needs to be met; and of course, campaigning
hard and fast to officials can cost hundreds
of thousands of dollars so there’s a bit of a
downside to that one. One of the best things
to do, though, is to introduce trail running
to officials in the year a country hosts the
Games – and in our case, it’s Brisbane 2032.
Trails have to be spectator-friendly and
dynamic too, but let’s face it – Australia
and New Zealand have some of the most
beautiful locations in the world for potential
courses, so I don’t think there’s much issue
there. Some accessibility problems in remote
areas, sure. But for start and finish lines,
aid stations, and random hot spots, crowd
access would be well organised with the
right people involved. This is where we could

A runner crosses a creek at the Brisbane Trail Ultra 10km.
use it all to our advantage and form a highly
experienced collective of race directors,
organisers and high-profile runners to come
up with ideal point-to-point options that
would showcase not only the athleticism of
our Aussie and Kiwi trail runners, but the
beauty of this part of the world.
Opportunities are endless when it comes
to utilising technology in media coverage
too, so I won’t go on about that because
I have a million and one ideas, but one
thing’s for sure – trail running is the perfect
Olympic sport to encourage and entice
younger generations to participate due to its
accessibility and (initial) low cost, all through
television and live social media recordings.
In mid-2022, the Trail Running Association
of Queensland (TRAQ) started the Trail
Running 2032 Campaign (TR2032), a 10-
year plan and initiative to see trail running
accepted as an Olympic sport at the Brisbane
Games – both Olympic and Paralympic –
created as a joint project with other trail
Image: Element Photography.
running associations and organisations
across Australia.
In March 2023, TRAQ hosted the
CheckPoint One trail running community
summit hosted at The Precinct in Fortitude
Valley, Brisbane to officially launch the
campaign.
TRAQ president Mike Duggan says
providing opportunities for people of
all abilities to be involved in safe and
sustainable trail running activities is key to
the long term success of the sport, and the
campaign’s official launch earlier this year
was a big accomplishment.
“Over 100 people representing the trail
running community attended in-person and
virtually,” he says.
“A month before, we launched the first
Australian Trail Running Survey to find out
what the community thought was important
about trail running in Australia and the
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
Qld trail runner and coach Ben Duffus hits the
Brisbane Trail Marathon. Image: Joep Buijs.
potential of the sport in the Olympics. We
had over 500 responses from clubs, groups,
associations and individuals across the
country.
“The survey responses formed the basis for
what was discussed at CheckPoint One,
which included improving access to trails for
training and events, promoting and advocacy
for protecting the natural environmental
and cultural value of Australia’s wild places
and bushland, and providing minimum
standards for events to ensure safety and
professionalism.”
The campaign is being designed to ensure
that trail running is able to accomplish so
much more than just being an Olympic and
Paralympic sport though, according to Mike.
“The global Games are arguably the pinnacle
for a competitive sport, but can act as a
catalyst for global impact and change well
beyond the competitive environment of the
event,” he explains.
33
 FEATURE IF YOU LIKE IT THEN YOU SHOULDA PUT AN OLYMPIC RING ON IT
Runner Geoff Moore traverses
the single track at the Cairns
Port Douglas Trail Ultra 20km.
Image: Dominic Chaplin.
“We see that trail running’s long journey
over the coming almost-10 years to become
an Olympic and Paralympic sport could
change the way people interact with the
environment and develop pathways for more
adaptive athletes and women to access trails
in a safe and supportive way.
“We want to expand the sport’s power to
connect communities globally and change
lives, which is what the Olympic and
Paralympic dream is all about in the end.”
Earlier this year, a TRAQ working group
was formed to support the campaign, and
in the future, TR2032 is expected to be an
independent venture. A key ‘checkpoint’ in
the campaign is to support the formation
of a national trail running body which will
provide representation to the peak body for
athletics in Australia and globally, according
to Mike.
“At this stage, we have national
representatives for the International Trail
34
"I predict there will be endless sponsorship potentials and
life-changing opportunities available if someone makes it onto the
Olympic Trail Running Team…not only that, but the future of trail
running will explode. Kids will really think about becoming a trail
runner like they think of becoming a professional triathlete or surfer,
snowboarder or mountain bike rider," Shona Stephenson.
Running Association (ITRA) and other and up-and-coming athletes, as well as
associations that, at times, represent trail simply providing inspiration for the masses
running such as the Australian Ultra and promoting the sport to a far wider
Runners Association (AURA) and the community.
Australian Mountain Running Association
(AMRA). “It could bring more money into the sport
too, and this can be invested in growing and
“For trail running to be considered as a developing trail running for everyone. If it
sport worthy of the Games, it’s clear we also means a potential avenue for athletes
need high level representation in Australia; to make a decent living, then that would
achieving this aim in the coming 12 months help retain the most talented athletes (who
is important to steer this objective across the might also have a strong potential in other
finish line.” endurance events).
Qld trail runner and coach Ben Duffus has “We’re at an important stage in the process
a wealth of experience in the sport and right now where the sport needs to decide
comes with a strong background in podium what event formats will enter the Olympics,
finishes, including securing 1st placings at and from there we can work to determine
the 2021 Six Foot Track 45km, 2020 Brisbane potential development pathways for young
Trail Ultra 60km, 2019 Australian Mountain athletes.”
Running Championships, the 2019 Guzzler
50km, the 2019 UTA22 and the 2019 Blackall Brisbane Trail Ultra managing director and
50km. race director Shona Stephenson designed
the BTU’s course back in 2018 with long
He grew up aspiring to one day make the term views and goals in mind, one of
Olympics in several different sports, and has them being a finish line that was in close
even been lucky enough to watch various
athletes he used to train or race with win
Olympic medals. He says he would love to
one day fulfill that Olympic dream with trail
running.
“I will turn 40 in 2032, so I think it’s
absolutely plausible that I could still be
in contention for qualifying, though it
may largely depend on the format that’s
implemented,” he explains.
“Trail running being introduced to the
Olympics would be a significant step forward
for the professionalism and exposure of
the sport. For elites, this could mean more
opportunities for support and recognition;
as an Olympic sport, there is potential for far
more federation and government support as
well as increasing the marketability of trail
runners for sponsors.
TRAQ president Mike Duggan addresses attendees
“At a grass roots level, it could open up of the March Checkpoint One Summit event.
more development pathways for young Image: Dominic Murphy.

proximity to the city so all demographics
could enjoy the fun of trail running –
whether it was for running, crewing,
volunteering or simply spectating.
She says Brisbane is the perfect stand-out
location for the introduction of trail running
into the Olympics and Paralympics.
“The first question people ask me when I tell
them about trail running is, ‘Is it an Olympic
sport?’” she reveals.
“The Olympic brand provides validation
to a sport, and we knew that if we finished
our event in the city, close to an Olympic
venue, we could sell it to Queensland and
Brisbane Tourism officials as an event
worth supporting. The goal was to then
attract maximum media attention while
showcasing Brisbane as a destination city
for trail running, plus finish a trail running
event in the Gabba – less than 1km from our
course.
“We also wanted to prove to local and state
governments that trail running could host a
world event; the fastest runners can knock
off a trail marathon in under 3 hours, which
still makes for excellent television coverage.
A half marathon finishing on Mt Cootha
would also be an epic showcase of our
amazing trails and the proximity to a capital
city.”
Putting the sport into the hands of Olympic
and Paralympic officials still requires support
from athletes and the wider trail running
community though, not just government
and tourism bodies, and according to Shona
it’s important runners stand together and
support the movement.
“The Olympics are a golden once-in-a-
lifetime opportunity for trail running
athletes in Australia to make the most of
the ‘home’ advantage and make a name for
themselves,” she says.
“I predict there will be endless sponsorship
potentials and life-changing opportunities
available if someone makes it onto the
Olympic Trail Running Team…not only
that, but the future of trail running will
explode. Kids will really think about
becoming a trail runner like they think of
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
becoming a professional triathlete or surfer,
snowboarder or mountain bike rider.
“The media attention I believe will activate
the community into supporting trail running
and the lead-up Olympic events, and will
also hopefully showcase the athletes’ skills as
something that is truly remarkable.
“I also hope that athletes will receive more
sponsorship and support as the growth of
the sport compounds and is able to provide
for its community as well as foster the next
generation of trail runners.”
TO GET INVOLVED IN THE TR2032
CAMPAIGN WORKING GROUP:
Email: president@traq.org.au
Socials: @trailrunning2032
Website: trailrunning.org.au
FEATURE

Crossing the finish line at the 2023 Delirious WEST 200 Miler in 97:50:43.
Image: Astrid Volzke.

36
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

FOR MILES
ONE OF THE BEST THINGS ABOUT TRAIL RUNNING IS THAT NO MATTER YOUR BACKGROUND, NO MATTER
YOUR HISTORY, THERE ARE LIFE SKILLS YOU CAN ALWAYS BRING ACROSS TO IMPROVE YOUR ABILITY AND
YOUR TECHNIQUE. NO MORE SO THAN FROM THE SPORT OF BODYBUILDING, WHERE INCREDIBLE DISCIPLINE
IS THE ONLY WAY TO SEE SUCCESS. KATE DZIENIS RECENTLY LEARNED THAT WA TRAIL RUNNER BIANCA
HARDING, WHO IS KNOWN FOR HER BLONDE PIGGY TAILS AND CAPTIVATING SMILE, USED TO DON THE
SPARKLY BIKINIS AND TAN UP THE SKIN FOR A SPOT ON THE BODYBUILDING STAGE, AND HOW THAT HARD
AND FAST SPORT HELPED HER BECOME THE ULTRA TRAIL RUNNER SHE IS TODAY.

WORDS: KATE DZIENIS IMAGES: ASTRID VOLZKE, ANDREW YEATMAN, SUPPLIED

Beautiful tanned and toned bodies
everywhere. No matter where you look,
there’s a collage of buff silhouettes flexing
their stuff and topping up last minute
workouts before hitting a live stage in front
of a crowd that watches competitors in
sheer awe.
And just like us trail runners get ready the
morning of a race with our hydro-packs,
on-the-go nutrition, drop bags, the right
clothing and maybe even a spreadsheet here
or there to keep track of our expected pace,
bodybuilders adorn dressing rooms before
standing in front of judges, clearing out their
own area and strapping on bejewelled bikinis,
high heels and snacks.
Chiseled like the Greek gods they are, there
is so much work that goes behind each
individual’s dream of being crowned winner
in this world of bodybuilding. It’s a galactic
world away from trail running, where hours
upon hours in the gym far outweigh any
cardio work, and diets are severely micro
managed to ensure high protein and low carb
is king and queen of the food pyramid.
Bianca Harding, 40, from Padbury in WA is
known to hit the state’s endurance events in
her blonde pig-tails and run with her mum,
Sue Robertson – always with a smile on her
face and basically making the sport look like
it’s the most fun thing you could ever do on
this planet.
But she wasn’t always a runner – in fact,
Bianca comes with an eclectic background of
sports where I’m sure she could talk to anyone
for days over. Originally a dancer-turned-
dance-teacher who thrived on competitions,
competitiveness, big goals and getting out of
her comfort zone, she turned to bodybuilding
adventures in the off-season of her triathlon
journey.
It was 2009, and Bianca got herself into a
six-week triathlon course which trained
participants in all abilities. Eventually, the
sport saw her compete in half Ironmans, as
well as racing for Australia in the Canada
World Championships and then ultimately
finishing her triathlon career with a full
Ironman in 2015.
And then, it was time for something new.
“My bodybuilding slipped in at the end of the
last few years of my triathlon life before giving
it all up – both of those sports – for the world

37
DARE TO DREAM STRENGTH FOR MILES
of ultra running,” she reminisces.
“Because hey, let’s get in a bikini, lean down
and strut my stuff on a stage in front of a
huge audience!
“I remember comps well – before getting
on the stage everyone would be pumping
weights, using resistance bands to get the
muscles popping…I’d stand in a line-up of
20 women waiting for my name to be called.
We’d walk on stage individually, doing a
routine that you’d practice for months, in
front of the judges – quarter turn to the left,
quarter turn to the back, and so forth until
you then move to the back of the stage.
“Nerves would always be high. I’d trained so
hard in these high heels, praying I wouldn’t
stack it.”
Bianca competed in three bodybuilding
competitions over the course of two years,
with each line-up having, as mentioned, 20
women who she’d be up against; she says she
was stoked to walk away with six trophies in
six line ups.
Bianca took on the 2023 Light Horse Ultra 6hr in WA, finishing
with 55.82km, claiming 2nd Female. Image: Andrew Yeatman.
38
ICN Sept 2016
2nd Place, 30+ Category
3rd Place, Bikini Mumma Category
5th Place, First Timer Category
INBA Oct 2017
3rd Place, Bikini Mumma Category
5th Place, 30+ Category
5th Place, Novice Category
IFBB Oct 2017
No Placing
“The IFBB is the ‘beast’ of the comp world,”
she explains. “I’d just finished competing
in ICN and my coach wanted me to jump
straight into IFBB two weeks later. At this
stage, I was hooked. I loved how I looked and
felt, and couldn’t get enough.
“He then put me on a keto diet and upped all
my cardio to the stage where I looked and felt
withered away. By the time the comp came
around, I’d dropped down to less than 4%
body fat and started to not have fun. I just
remember stepping on stage and not feeling
anything like I did the few weeks before…and
that’s all I remember.
“I’d lost my memory, I had no idea what I was
doing, and just stood on stage with nothing to
offer. That was the end. I called it quits after
that.”
2018 was Bianca’s next chapter in her life
book, and it was by far the best. Both she
and her mum had signed up for Wild Goose
Chase, a multi-day event running festival
held in the Avon Valley National Park in WA
where participants camp or glamp for a long
weekend. The two women knew a handful
of people in the trail running community
by this stage, but were excited to start a new
adventure – and a less competitive one at
that.
“The race consisted of 18km on the Friday
night, 45km on the Saturday and 22.5km on
the Sunday; the camp grounds were the main
hub with a big shed, couches, fire pits and also
the start point for each event,” Bianca recalls.
“Every night we’d sit around the fire, drink
and tell stories of our runs that day…by the
end of the weekend, we were absolutely
hooked, not only with the running side of it,
but with the epic community.”
One would think that bodybuilding and trail
running are two completely different sports –
and clearly, they are. But when broken down
and put side-by-side, there’s a vast amount of
similarities that can be brought across into
each sport, in particular from bodybuilding
into trail running.
To see success, both must be witness to high
discipline – most sports do require some form
of discipline, but to see high achievement
such as winning a place on the podium, the
work needs to be put in. It also requires the
willingness to delay immediate gratification
for the sake of bigger, more meaningful future
payoffs, something that doesn’t necessarily
come naturally. Bianca explains that despite
bodybuilding focusing on muscle mass and
trail running devoted to agility and speed, it
was easy for her to bring her knowledge of the
former through to the latter.
“They are so incredibly similar,” she reveals.
“There’s always a program to follow, if it’s a
running program or a nutrition plan. I have
a strong mental game and I think that’s
helped from my triathlon days. I walked away
from bodybuilding with such a wide ranging
knowledge of food.”
“I know how important it is to fuel the body
Racing the 2022 Birdy’s Backyard Ultra in WA, where Bianca used
much of her bodybuilding discipline to complete 17 laps.
Image: Astrid Volzke.
DARE TO DREAM STRENGTH FOR MILES
TOP LEFT: Bianca (left) is seen at many trail
races with her bestie, her mum Sue Robertson.
Image: Astrid Volzke; TOP RIGHT: Bianca taking
her ‘before’ photo pre-2023 Delirious WEST 200
Miler. Image: Astrid Volzke; BOTTOM LEFT: Bianca
gets some assistance at an aid station at the 2023
Delirious WEST 200 Miler. Image: Andrew Yeatman.
40
and how to fuel it to succeed whether it’s in
the gym or on the trails.”
Other similarities between the two disciplines
include both requiring recovery time to build
back muscle lost and reduce the amount of
lactic acid built up, both increasing blood flow
for circulation, and better deep sleep. So it’s
no wonder Bianca moved into trail running
without a hitch, easily transitioning to fluid
movement and the ability to manoeuvre on
uneven surfaces.
And she doesn’t do it by halves either. Bianca
has moved into the trail world fairly quickly
since 2018 after Wild Goose, finding herself
completing an average of about six ultra
events per year. Starting off with 50km races,
she made her way through to 75km, 100km
and then 200 milers – her latest being the
2023 Delirious WEST 200 Miler and the
Irrational SOUTH 200 Miler.
“After doing quite a few distances now, I’d
have to say the Delirious WEST is one of my
favourite events by far!” she says. “I haven’t
had a chance to venture the world with
running yet, with Albany (south coast of WA)
being my favourite place, you just can’t beat
that finish line.
“WTF 100 miler was my first 100 miler
after my grandfather had died, and we’d
raised money for the Royal Flying Doctor
– definitely one of my most memorable
and hardest finishes. “Dream runs for the
future…I’d say Larapinta and Tarawera are
certainly on the cards.”
CONTRIBUTION
san juan mountains, coLORADO. IMAGE: JONATHAN CHAVES.

MAD MISSION: NINJAS ON

SNOWBOUND TRAILS

THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO EMBRACE WINTER RUNNING THAN WITH SNOW. AND ALTHOUGH
THERE ARE LESS OPPORTUNITIES IN AUSTRALIA THAN IN NEW ZEALAND TO HIT THE SNOWY-
COVERED TRAILS FOR YOUR DAILY DOSE OF RUNNING, THERE ARE LOTS MORE FACTORS TO
CONSIDER – ESPECIALLY IF YOU’RE AN AUSSIE ABROAD. KATE ALLMAN RECENTLY FOUND
HERSELF EXPLORING THE SAN JUAN MOUNTAINS IN THE AMERICAN STATE OF COLORADO,
WHERE TRAIL RUNNING THROUGH SNOW AT HIGH ALTITUDE BROUGHT WITH IT A WHOLE NEW
LEVEL OF CHALLENGE. SHE TESTED HER METTLE AND ALONG THE WAY, MET THE WILD LOCAL
RUNNERS WHO GAVE HER ALL THE INFO SHE NEEDED.

WORDS: KATE ALLMAN IMAGES: KATE ALLMAN, JONATHAN CHAVES

42

Who knew air could be so brutal? The
burning, biting, muscle-clenching power
of it.
As a trail runner who gravitates towards
training in regions of relatively clean air,
I rarely question the invisible fuel that
oxygenates my muscles. But in February, as
I stomp through the teetering peaks of the
San Juan Mountains in Colorado at 2800
metres above sea level, I am meeting its
suffocating and savage dual personalities.
I’m in the remote mountain town
of Silverton in Colorado, on an anti-
clockwise road trip through America’s most
adventurous and outdoor-oriented state.
This is an Old West frontier town that
was once the epicentre of Colorado’s silver
mining boom in the late 1800s. Fortunes
were found and scuttled among the peaks
between here and the larger centre of
Durango, about an hour’s drive to the south.
The town by rights should have become a
ghost town when the mining boom ended
in the early 20th Century. But today, a
stubborn population of trail runners, hikers,
mountain bikers and outdoor adventurers
remain in the region. They relish the
raw and undulating playground of their
wilderness backyard, which sits at altitudes
almost double the peaks of Australia and
New Zealand. Admittedly, most choose to
swap their running shoes for ski boots in
mid-winter when I arrive.
Running through snow at this kind of
altitude sees air take on harsh new identities.
Sucking in huge gulps of it isn’t enough to
get power to my legs. Areas of exposed skin –
my cheeks and the lower part of my ear lobes
sticking out from a fleecy headband – are
howling. This morning is minus 10 degrees
Celsius according to the weather apps but
the wind chill is even more brutal.
“You guys are next-level dangerous,” a local
says, wide-eyed, as she passes my husband
and I crunching through the snowy town to
our hotel.
My impression is she doesn’t often see trail
runners attempting the February snow, clad
in ankle-length running tights, thermal
tops, windbreakers, gloves. I’m grateful
for the Gore-Tex lining on my Asics Gel
Trabucos keeping my feet dry, and snow-
adaptive Oakley Sutro sunglasses blocking
this environment’s stunning white glare. I
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
contemplate we must look like winter ninjas.
“If there’s a zombie apocalypse, I’m coming
with you!” the woman shouts.
I stifle a self-satisfied grin and try to keep
up our snail pace. My ankles are as heavy as
ski boots after less than an hour of high-
altitude running at minus 10 degrees Celsius.
We’re on the way back to the crackling
fireplace of the Wyman Hotel on Elm Street,
and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Records, Altitudes & The Cold
This short stint of exposure my husband and
I battled through is nothing compared to the
feats achieved by locals in the Silverton and
Durango area.
The region is home to the Colorado Trail,
one of America’s most famous running and
hiking routes stretching 782km between
the capital, Denver in the northeast, and
Durango in the state’s southwest. It’s one
of the most scenic trails in the country,
and admirably eco-friendly, as the entire
trail was built and is maintained entirely by
volunteers through an organisation called
the Colorado Trail Foundation. It covers 58
peaks along the way, with its highest point
sitting at an elevation of 4,045 metres. And
yes – before you ask – there are plenty of
wild women and men who run (or attempt
to run) the entire thing.
Local owner of running store Durango
Running Co, Brett Sublett, was part of the
first team to complete a non-stop, round-
the-clock relay across the entire trail. In
2017, he and a team of four other runners
finished the track in 3 days, 15 hours, 54
minutes. There’s no official tally of times set
on the Colorado Trail, but Sublett says the
team’s finish time beat a supported runner’s
record set earlier the same year at 8 days,
30 minutes. It even surpassed a mountain
biker’s record time of 3 days, 20 hours, 46
minutes.
“Where we started near Denver, there were
so many parts that had easy access by road
and vehicle. So, we started by running really
short, fast segments, four or five miles at
a time and just trying to go as fast as we
could,” he explains.
“There were a lot of handoffs and a lot of
exchanges. Then, as we went into more
43
MAD MISSION NINJAS ON SNOWBOUND TRAILS
remote sections of the trail towards the
Durango end, up in the San Juan’s, there
were sections that were close to 20 plus
miles because we couldn’t get any vehicle
access.
“I was reasonably fit but all the rest of the
guys who did it with me were about 30 years
younger than me. I was 51 and most of the
guys I did it with were under 30.”
Most of the Colorado Trail runs above 3,000
metres. It’s the kind of altitude that trail
running in Australia simply can’t measure up
to. No wonder this crazy Aussie was feeling a
little out of breath. However, I’m grateful to
hear even Brett finds the thin air at elevation
challenging.
“We all spend a lot of time at elevation, but
I notice it. Especially when you’re trying to
run fast,” he says.
“When you’re trying to push the pace, it gets
really uncomfortable. My advice to runners
coming to visit is that the biggest issue is
often weather at elevation. Storms move in
quickly, before you have time to get down.
There are storms, lightning, rain, even in
44
summer. You need to be able to identify
weather and respond – get down off the trail
or hunker down if necessary.”
Daggy Durango?
If the state of Colorado is the outdoor
adventure capital of the US, the city of
Durango where Brett lives could be the
trail running capital of the state. It’s an
epicentre for outdoor adventure, slightly
friendlier in winter for its sunny weather and
lower-altitude starting point than the snow-
engulfed routes we tackled at Silverton.
“You come to Durango because it’s in the San
Juan Mountain range of the state and the
peaks down here are just a little more jagged,
a little steeper and a little wilder,” he says.
“We have really good access to them from
Durango. I can get off work and go run up to
13,000 feet after work. There’s not too many
places that you can have that kind of access.”
In the 1990s, USA Today famously dubbed
Durango the ‘worst dressed town in
America’, referring to locals who seem
unable to change out of running and ski
The historic town of Silverton, Colorado. Image: Kate Allman.
wear, no matter the occasion. These days
the title is held up as a badge of honour. To
the extent that the town hosts an annual
dress-up party called Snowdown at the end
of January, where any combination of fluoro,
lycra and daggy clothing fits the dress code.
Local trail runner and Team USA athlete
Anthony Kunkle loves the down-to-earth,
welcoming community of athletes that his
fashion-snubbing town attracts.
“I’m definitely proud where I’m from.
Wherever I travel abroad or in other states
I’m representing Durango. I absolutely love
where I live,” he says.
“It’s the best place I’ve ever lived to train in
the winter. We get snow but we get more
sun than anywhere in Colorado. It’s high
desert, just north of the border between New
Mexico and Arizona. Being at the terminus
of the Colorado Trail is such an interesting
spot to live – where the desert meets the
mountains.”
If Durango is the epicentre for trail running
in Colorado, Kunkle might be its unofficial
mascot. He lives in a house of endurance
MAD MISSION NINJAS ON SNOWBOUND TRAILS

athletes just a few miles from the mouth of

the Colorado Trail, on the only road in from
Durango.

“I’ll regularly use the last four to five miles of

the Colorado Trail for my bread-and-butter
training,” Kunkle says.

“It feels like something really decadently

privileged to have this in my backyard.”

Kunkle’s home has become known as a

halfway house for runners passing through.
Hikers and trail runners attempting a
section of the Colorado Trail often drop by
for free snacks, showers, a sauna, laundry.
He extends the invitation to any readers of
Trail Run Mag hoping to try and run the trail
themselves.

“I’m happy to say to anyone reading this

article who wants to go running on the
Colorado Trail, I would welcome you to
come and visit. We’ve got sponsor products,
clothing, prototype shoes, an infrared sauna.
We swim each morning in the creek, which
is just above freezing temperature, and we
use low red lights after sunset. We’re all
about staying grounded,” he says.

“If you’re in Durango and you’re into

running, hit me up. No questions asked.” Animas River. Image: Kate Allman.

Kate Allman dressed for trail running in the snow in

COLORADO TRAIL ESSENTIAL GEAR CHECKLIST
Silverton, Colorado. Image: Kate Allman.

Shoes – staying warm requires staying dry. Opt for a waterproof, Gore-tex
membrane and good grip. The Asics Gel-Trabuco 11 GT-X are a reliable choice.

Sunglasses – snow blindness is a thing, so be sure to protect your eyes. Oakley

Sutros use the same Prizm lens technology as their ski goggles to make vision
clearer in both harsh sunlight and lower lights when the clouds move in on
mountains.

Bottoms – kicking up snow can make your bottoms cold really fast, so it’s good to
opt for a water-repelling pant like Oakley softshells. At minimum, keep your ankles
covered with long running tights and socks.

Top – if you choose waterproofing in the pants, wear a more breathable layer on top.
Thermals, down or fleece layers that can be peeled off and stuffed into a pocket are
ideal.

Gloves and headband/beanie – essentials for low temperatures, keep the skin
covered and out of frostbite’s way!

INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: Kate Allman is a freelance sports and travel journo based in Sydney. She’s someone who rarely stands still,
reporting widely for newspapers, magazines and TV. It’s fitting for the lifetime runner, who grew up training on hills in the Southern
Highlands of NSW and was a state rep cross-country athlete.

46
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FEATURE

48
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

YOURSELF IN GARIWERD
LIKE A MOTH TO A FLAME, THE GRAMPIANS (GARIWERD) IN VICTORIA DRAW NATURE ENTHUSIASTS AND
EXPLORERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD TO DISCOVER MAJESTIC WATERFALLS, DAZZLING WILDFLOWER
DISPLAYS AND AWE-INSPIRING MOUNTAIN VIEWS. THE GRAMPIANS PEAKS TRAIL IS A WORLD-CLASS HIKING
EXPERIENCE, BUT NOW IT’S HOME TO THE FIRST EVER GRAMPIANS PEAKS TRAIL 100 MILER EVENT – A TRAIL
RUNNER’S ANSWER TO THEIR SEARCH FOR THE MOST EPIC AND SPECTACULAR TRAIL RACE DESTINATION.
KATE DZIENIS GETS THE FULL LOWDOWN ON ALL OF IT THANKS TO COURSE DIRECTORS JOSEPH DORPH
AND MAJELL BACKHAUSEN, AND GPT 100 AMBASSADOR LUCY BARTHOLOMEW.

WORDS: KATE DZIENIS IMAGES: AARON COLLINS

Let’s face it. The truth is, trail runners
are always on the hunt for the next
adventure. Whether it’s on a 5km stretch
of dirt that’s been found accidentally, or
a flight is booked to head further than
one’s own backyard, it’s something that
all trail runners enjoy – exploration of
the unknown.
It’s exhilarating, and it’s intrepid. We can
all agree.
So on that note, there’s now an incredible
opportunity for athletes to race in a world
class destination for walking and hiking,
where animal and plant life is abundant,
and Aboriginal rock art paintings and
shelters are ancient and full of mystery.
Race the Grampians Peaks Trail 100 Miler
at speed and target that PB in the wild,
or take it easy and absorb every breath
you take. Either way, the newest event
on the trail calendar is as rugged as it is
beautiful with 164km of terrain that will
blow your mind.
Course director Joseph Dorph initially
heard of the Grampians Peaks Trail when
construction began in 2015. A location
about three hours west of Melbourne,
the race begins at Mount Zero (the very
tip of the Grampians mountain range)
and winds its way southwards towards
Dunkeld.
Joseph says he had heard about the
Grampians trail four years ago when it
was being built, and knew that many
others were already thinking about how
great it would be to have a point-to-point
100 mile race at the location.
“Naturally, putting the event on seemed
like a no-brainer,” he reveals.
“A trail was created so that people could
experience a continuous single track from
north to south, and a lot of the sections
were purpose built whilst some bits were
already there. For walkers, it provides a
12 or 13-day trek with 12 camp sites along
the route.
“Part of our application to see the
GPT100 run smoothly and successfully
is to have course clearers who will take
markers once the race is finished, but also
to help clear rubbish. Even though trail
runners are known to be very mindful
of their environment and aren’t the type
of people to litter, there can be the odd
accidental drop of an item so our course
clearers will help with that.”
In its first year the GPT100 will be open
to as many registrations as possible to see
where the number falls, however there is
confidence it won’t be over 300 people;
a cap in the future may occur though.
Already the race has between 70 and 80
registered participants for the miler, and
there is hope that number will climb to
around 150.
With runners due to start at Mt Zero
picnic area, Joseph assures there is more
than enough room for everyone to spread
out and stagger onto the course when it’s
time to get going, and explains the terrain
for those who are yet to do a recon.
“The technicality of the terrain I’d say is
more like a 6 out of 10,” he reveals.
“It is a very technical trail in some
sections; a good chunk of it is very

49
GNARLY TALES IMMERSE YOURSELF IN GARIWERD
runnable single track with a good
solid 50% of technical or rocky terrain.
Elevation is getting up there, about
8,000m of ascent which is a lot for
Australia.
“With a 50-hour cut off, we think that’s
a generous length of time to get through
the distance, but at the same time I like
to think it will be classified as one of the
harder races in Australia.”
Well known trail runner Majell
50
Backhausen has taken on the role as
course director with Joseph and turned
into an ambassador to ensure there
is a clear understanding of the trail
itself as well as the surroundings of
the trail. He says this includes working
with Traditional Owners and the local
community, and showing the broader
spectrum of people how the GPT could
not only be used as a track for a 100
miler event, but how it’s used and viewed
differently as to how a hiker would see it.
“Trail runners move over landscapes a
lot quicker and therefore carry less gear
but it’s important to still provide support
to them where we see it’s needed,” he
explains.
“Logistically, it’s asking ourselves how
do we make sure we have the minimum
things available to trail runners like
medical necessities, food and water, and
how can they get to certain spots we feel
would be more ideal for runners to run
through.

“What I mean is, when you’re running
over the landscape, you see it in a
completely different way – the way the
trail is currently marked is probably quite
minimal for a trail race, so it’s about
getting an understanding of how best to
mark the trail because runners quickly
move past hiking chevrons and may not
see them. By the time they realised, they
may not see the right way to go because
some paths are not necessarily defined
due to rock formations.
“We have a strong connection to the
Traditional Owners via the local shire,
council and so through the process of
submitting permits, we’ve been able to
speak with them about how this would
affect the way that they see the land being
used and all that protocol that’s needed.
“You learn so much about the landscape
through tradition owners so it’s
important for everyone involved that
we do everything right; and Gariwerd
as it’s known is very complex in terms
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
of its Native Title – there isn’t just
one Traditional Owner group, there’s
a number, and the history of it is
fascinating and quite complex to try and
understand fully.”
Majell says the local community is
thrilled to see a big event like the GPT100
coming to town, and he explains that
despite there being a few other races in
and around Halls Gap, the hype of it all
always excites those living in the area.
51
GNARLY TALES IMMERSE YOURSELF IN GARIWERD
“I’ve been working with a chap named
Adrian who is the only person permitted
to do guided walks/tours on the
Grampians Trail,” he says.
“Adrian’s knowledge and his support and
freedom to share information has been
so incredible; it’s fantastic to work closely
with people like Adrian. And look, if we
have a lot of people coming for the event,
it will definitely test the area’s boundaries
– Halls Gap does appear really resourced
and big, but in actual fact it is still a ‘small
town’ so we don’t want to put too much
strain on the town and its people.”
Australian trail running extraordinaire
and international podium finisher Lucy
Bartholomew needs no introduction. As
the country’s trail running sweetheart,
she has come on board as the GPT100’s
ambassador to entice and encourage
individuals to visit the Grampians and
experience firsthand the beauty and
charm of the region.
“When I visited it for the first time, I
simply fell in love with everything the
Grampians has to offer,” she breathes.
52
“My dad has done races in the area, but
those events tend to fall on my schedule
when I’m overseas, and because I’ve been
on a bit of a time crunch it was tricky to
always get over there. It’s definitely been
an intriguing location and now this is a
wonderful opportunity for me to get over
there and really take in the scenery.
“When I got to the Grampians for the first
time, I thought it was really gnarly and
unique bush. It’s very organic, very rocky
and challenging, it’s totally brutal but at
the same time it’s incredibly beautiful
and iconically Australian. I love the way
the trail has been built, it’s not filled with
handrails or metal that you tend to see at
national parks sometimes.
“Just driving in, you go through flat
farmlands and then suddenly the
Grampians appear out of nowhere. When
you get there and wnder through town,
when you talk to the people and hang out
at the café, then hit the trails, I feel like
all expectations are exceeded immensely.
There’s a reason why people have gone
once, only to return again and again.
“This is a place that grabs you at the
heartstrings.”
In late May, Lucy – together with
Joseph and Majell – held a weekend
camp, hosting up to 50 runners to recce
the trails and immerse themselves in
the land. It was an opportunity to get
feedback from participants, and Lucy
says she spent time with people who were
‘gobsmacked’ over the terrain.
“It was cool to see them each day show up
a little bit uncertain, a little bit nervous…
and then totally fall in love and take that
time to traverse, stop, and breathe it all
in,” she reveals.
“At one point, Maj asked the group to
sum up their experience and what they
thought of the trail – no one answered
without a swear word in it. It was either
really fucking hard or really fucking
beautiful (we both laugh).”
With international race commitments in
the lead up to the GPT100, Lucy will be
doing the event’s 4-day stage race socially
so she can be amongst the people and
connect and support them.
“This will be a great way for me to
experience the trails in four leisurely
days tied in with a lot of sleeping, a lot
of eating, and just being a part of the
community. I’m really looking forward to
stage racing such a unique event – what a
fantastic way to end the year!”
For all the info about the GPT100,
head to gpt100.com.au where
registrations are still open.

WHY DO WE RUN…?
Why do we run? What inspires us to brave
the cold early mornings, the darkness of
winter or the time away from family and
friends to go and run?
If you’re anything like us then it’ll be summed
up by some of these key words: camaraderie,
satisfaction, fitness, landscapes and
adventure. This is the life blood of trail
running and central to why we do what we
do… and if there is one event that brings all
this together for anyone to experience it’s got
to be the Great Southern Stage Run held in
south-west Western Australia.
The Great Southern Stage Run is a 3-day
stage running event over a spectacular
200km course along large sections of the
phenomenal Bibbulmun Track between
Walpole and Albany.
What sets it apart from other stage races is
the relay team aspect that allows runners
to be involved without needing to tick-off
70km day after day after day. With 4 team
members, competitors will run just one leg
per day covering between 10km to 26km
each to complete the journey.
The inaugural event brought teams from
across Australia and generated an incredible
sense of camaraderie as runners shared
stories, equipment and injury updates from
one day to the next. Soon teams were no
longer competing against each other but
running with each other through a wild and
untouched landscape. Check-point locations
became social hubs where participants would
chat and cheer everyone through whilst
WORDS: SAM MAFFETT. IMAGES: NOÉKO
waiting to high-five their own team runner
and the exchange of timing chip.
Stage races have a certain amount of majesty
to them – they become a journey shared with
others; where you build new friendships,
share your experiences and become one on
the trail. Add in a team option and it makes
this achievable for any runner!
“This race exceeded my expectations
on so many levels! The challenge, the
camaraderie, the stunning scenery… I
absolutely loved every minute, especially
making so many on-track friends.” -
Emma, relay team participant 2022.
The Great Southern region of WA is a trail
runners paradise and offers acourse that
is equal parts challenging and rewarding,
making it one of Australia’s jewels! The
rugged, untamed coastline that’s flanked by
lush vegetation and quaint touristy villages
provides a range of amazing landscapes
for the event. From the majestic Tingle and
Karri trees in the Valley of the Giants near
Walpole to the picturesque finish line on the
Torndirrup Peninsula near Albany, runners
will traverse a course that pushes their limits
while showcasing the region's natural beauty.
The 200km point to point route provides an
incredible sense of journey as you traverse a
landscape rich with diversity, life and interest.
Frequent checkpoints mean you’re never too
far away from your friends whilst the endless
single track fills your soul and drains your
legs. Satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.
ADVERTORIAL
“The trails were rugged, varied and
beautiful with a different view around
every corner. It was such a buzz to share
it with my team mates over the 3 days,
cheer each other on and complete it
together.” - Kyle, relay team participant
2022.
If your wellbeing cup isn’t full after running
trails all day, then relaxing postrace with
a beer from local Wilsons Brewing and
comparing war stories with your new friends
should have you feeling fulfilled. The event
provides optional group accommodation at
the finish lines - low cost and with meals
cooked and prepared for you(!) it’s the perfect
end to the perfect day. Logistics made easy
and camaraderie complete!
So if you love your running and want an
event that embraces the reasons why we do
what we do, then gather your crew and head
west for the Great Southern Stage Run for an
odyssey you’ll never forget.
• 16 – 18 November, 2023
• Relay Teams of 4, running
1 leg each per day
• Limited solo entries
• Walpole to Albany, WA
• GreatSouthernStageRun.com.au
53
FEATURE

KISSING THE ROADS

Goodbye
MOST PEOPLE, WHEN THEY START RUNNING, LACE UP THEIR SHOES
AND BEGIN BY HITTING THE PATHS, PAVEMENTS OR ROADS…THEY
MIGHT EVEN HOP ON THE ODD TREADMILL HERE AND THERE. AND
MOST OF THE TIME (WELL, UP UNTIL THE LAST FEW YEARS ANYWAY),
RACES WERE DONE ON ROADS, OR AT THE VERY LEAST ON FLAT
SURFACES. THAT’S HOW ISOBEL TAIT BEGAN RUNNING, UNTIL SHE
CONSIDERED TAKING HER SPORT TO THE TRAILS TO GET AWAY FROM
THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF EVERYDAY LIFE. IT GOT HER THINKING
AND WONDERING WHY OTHERS GRAVITATED TOWARDS THE TRAILS,
AND WHAT TOOK THEM AWAY FROM BEING A ‘ROADIE’.

WORDS: ISOBEL TAIT

IMAGES: SUPER SPORTS IMAGES,

PHOTOS4SALE, GARRY WYNARDS

54
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

MICK KEYTE
50, ADELAIDE (SA)
Mick started running 18 years ago at the tender
age of 32. A mate rang him up the night before
the Barossa Half Marathon saying he was
going to run, and wanting to know if Mick
would join him. Never one to shy away from a
challenge, Mick was in.

He busted that one out with no training in

a swift 1:29 time. This led to 14 marathons,
with a PB of 2:39. That was enough of the
marathons for Mick, so he tried his hand at the
Ironman, and seven of those later, he needed a
new challenge – the trails were calling!

Not one to take half measures, Mick’s first trail

race was the Yurrebilla 56km. Unfortunately,
it wasn’t the best day for him, but it didn’t stop
him – it simply lit a fire in his belly to keep
going and do more.

Mick has raced trails all over the world, his

favourite place the Dolomites in Italy, and
says he’s enthralled with trails because of the
people.

“I find the people are much more friendly and

approachable compared to road runners,” he
says.

“Whether you’re an elite runner or a back-

of-the-pack runner, everyone is considered
equal and approachable. Everyone encourages
each other on, unlike road running that’s
very competitive and where no words are
exchanged.

“You get to meet so many runners in trail ultras

and can chat for hours and push each other
Mick Keyte catches some air at the 2022 Great Kanku-Breakaways Marathon in Coober Pedy, SA. along making long lasting friendships.”
Image: Garry Wynards.

55
RUNNING ON IMPACT: KISSING THE ROADS GOODBYE

Garry Scurry now only enters trail races, and was snapped having the time of his life at the 2021 Surf Coast Century. Image:
Photos4sale.

56
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

GARRY SCURRY
62, MELBOURNE (VIC)
Grant didn’t begin running seriously until
his mid-30s, and hit the roads and pavement
because ‘that’s just what everyone did.’ While
learning about the sport, he’d noticed road
events were quite prominent, and entering a
marathon appeared to be the goal that most
athletes would aim for.

At the time, he’d never heard of trail running

before and even though he lived close to Mt
Dandenong in Melbourne, with kilometres
upon kilometres of trails, it had never
crossed his mind to go up there and start
discovering the off-road tracks.

“I guess I just followed the crowd and hit the

roads,” he says.

“I had also joined a road running club and all

our weekly runs were on the roads and bike
tracks.”

But then Grant learned about Oxfam

Trailwalker, and it gave him the push to
try trails for the first time. He went on to
complete the Two Bays 28km and now
Grant only races in trail events, saying he
loves the constantly changing environment
and challenges of the terrain that make him
a stronger runner.

“There’s nothing better than a long trail run

with friends to just forget about life for a
while and enjoy the fresh air and scenery,”
he explains.

“I find I can escape daily life for a while I’m

out on a trail run.”

57
RUNNING ON IMPACT: KISSING THE ROADS GOODBYE

CHERYL MARTIN
43, MELBOURNE (VIC)
Scottish-born Cheryl ran her first 3km
cross-country race in her teens, finding a
rush of endorphins that made her want to
try it again. After a few London marathons
at 18 and 20, she then settled into jogging
a couple times a week between study and
work. Throughout her 20s and early 30s,
the occasional half marathon was thrown in
for good measure, and at this point Cheryl
was an exclusive road runner.

Once landing in Australia, she signed up for

Melbourne Marathon where she discovered
a community of runners who also took to
the trails. Altogether, they signed up for
the Two Bays Trail Run, and as she hit off-
road for training, Cheryl’s trail community
continued to grow, joining the Dandenong
Trail Runners.

“Sunday training sessions followed by

brunch and chatter,” she explains when
asked what she loves about it all.

“Long runs, with highs and lows, and

conversations ranging from the sublime to
the ridiculous. Many of us are running not
just for physical health but also our mental,
emotional and social wellbeing.

“I love the trails because roads are a bit

monotonous and hard on the body these
days. I enjoy being out in nature and
challenging myself over mountains and
varying terrain.”

Cheryl Martin is snapped all smiles during the 2023 21km Sharpy’s Beer Run.
Image: Photos4sale.

58
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

BEC COULTAS
35, DIAMOND CREEK (VIC)
Fairly new to running, Bec only started the sport
four years ago after volunteering at a local run
and deciding to want be a part of the fun. She
joined the Diamond Creek Runners and her
friends there all ran roads, so she initially started
running where they did.

In 2020, Bec ran a qualifying time for the Two

Bays Trail Run and decided to give it a go –
without any knowledge of how different a trail
race could be.

She started running a few local trails to train

for the event and whilst doing so, realised how
much more she enjoyed off-road.

“I’m a fairly numbers driven person as I think

many runners are; I have a tendency to become
obsessed with running further and faster than I
have previously and can easily fall into the trap
of not knowing when to stop, listen to my body
and just enjoy the run,” she explains.

“The trails have made me relax and appreciate

my surroundings while I’m out running without
the pressure of continuously bettering myself.
Trail running also has an amazing community
of like-minded people, so inclusive and really
out there to help one another.

“I’ve loved becoming a part of it.”

Bec Coultas found a love for trail running and races here
at the Plenty Gorge Trail Running Series.
Image: Photos4sale

59
RUNNING ON IMPACT: KISSING THE ROADS GOODBYE

MELISSA THEK
43, WARRAGUL (VIC)
Melissa started running in 2010 as a way of
helping her lose weight and to challenge
herself to try something new. She stopped
running a couple years later, then started again
post-kids with weight-loss again as her goal.

According to her, she ran on the treadmill and

roads because that’s what everyone else was
doing, but eventually Melissa hired a coach to
help her run faster marathons. This particular
coach ran trails, which inspired Melissa to give
it a red hot crack too.

She was converted.

“On the trails, your success is not measured

by your kilometre time; it’s measured by your
achievement,” she says.

“Meeting the cut-offs, navigating technical

terrain and finishing is the achievement. Most
importantly, though, trail runners are like a
family. No matter what, they stop to help,
encourage and assist.

“You might run a trail alone, but you’re never

fully alone.”

Today, Melissa no longer runs for weight loss

– she runs purely for personal achievement,
saying the sport allows her to fully switch off
for a few hours.

“Trail running challenges me and teaches me

just how hard my mind can push my body,”
she reveals.

Melissa Thek pushes through in the 2023 28km Two Bays Trail Run.
Image: Super Sport Images.

60
FEATURE

THE EMOTIONAL
EXPERIENCE:
POST RACE ‘BLUES
WORDS: PAUL WATKINS IMAGES: SUPPLIED

CW // Mental Health, Depression

TRM would like to advise that this article focuses on Paul Watkins’
lived experience, and therefore discusses mental health and depres-
sion. We understand that this discussion may be difficult for those in
our community who also suffer from these disorders, and have includ-
ed support services at the end of the article.

YOU’VE TRAINED AS HARD YOU CAN,

PUTTING IN THE ALL-CONSUMING WORK TO
DEDICATE YOUR ATTENTION TO RUNNING,
STRENGTH TRAINING, CROSS TRAINING
AND NUTRITION IN A BID TO PREPARE FOR
YOUR A RACE. BUT SOMETIMES AFTER YOU
CROSS THAT FINISH LINE AND HAVE THE
MEDAL AROUND YOUR NECK, A FEELING
OF SADNESS CAN SET IN FOR DAYS,
WEEKS OR EVEN MONTHS. PAUL WATKINS
RETELLS HIS TIME GOING THROUGH THE
POST RACE ‘BLUES’, AND MAPS OUT SOME
STRATEGIES THAT HELPED HIM RECOVER
AND IDENTIFY HIS EMOTIONS.

62

It was like a Hollywood movie script, a true
hero’s journey.
A race of epic proportions, I had dreamed
about it, trained and sacrificed; travelled the
breadth of the Earth to stand at the start line.
Only to quit, DNF at 250km mark, broken,
frozen, hallucinating, fractured and busted.
But the hero’s journey continued. I limped
home to discover the wisdom hidden within
the failure (insert Rocky-style training
montage and an eventual return to the start
line in a foreign land). Not only did I conquer
the race that second time, finally reaching
the finish line on the shores of a frozen Arctic
Ocean, but I stood on top of the podium,
conquering all and sundry, demons within
and competitors without.
It literally, literally could not have gone better.
So why can’t I sleep? Why am I snapping at
those I love? Why am I lost at sea, so to speak?
I dedicated three years of my athletic life to a
singular goal and reached the very pinnacle
but the post credit scenes were not the
fireworks, adulation or clarity I had imagined.
It was a black dog and a sea of confusion.
“I have a giant bottomless pit inside of me that I
keep throwing accomplishments into. Diplomas,
certificates, degrees, races, job titles...once I finish
the 10km, I have lost interest in it. I need to do
15km. Once I get a bachelors degree, I need a
Masters; then a PhD. I can never fill this pit. I
shouldn’t try. But the second I finish something,
I forget it and hunger for the next.” – Jon
Foreman.
What fresh hell is this?
I won the race, but fell into a hole. It seemed
like a crappy gift to be honest, and I cycled
through the inevitable questions – what’s
wrong with me? Shouldn’t I be elated? Why
does everyone else seem fine?
Only everyone else wasn’t fine, either.
I had a conversation with a mate via
messaging in March this year – Tim Hamlin, a
fellow Aussie who had just finished the same
Arctic race I’d conquered in 2019. We had
both attempted and DNF’d the race in 2017,
spending several days and nights together
on the frozen trail. By 2023 he had put six
years of his life into it, planning, attempting,
visualising, sacrificing. And in a brutally tough
year he had finally slayed the demon and
made it to the finish line (in a race where 80
per cent of competitors start but don’t finish).
“I’m a bit lost, mentally and emotionally; don’t
know if I’m happy or sad,” Tim told me.
I responded, letting him know I was semi-
depressed for about six months after the 6633
Arctic Ultra; that I had no idea what was
going on with me.
“We need to talk, I’ve got to sort this out,”
Tim said.
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
Call it what you like – post race blues, the
come down, the gaping hole where my event
used to sit. It’s real, it’s common and we need
to talk about it.
A short disclaimer first. I’m not a psychologist
nor am I a counsellor. I’m a WFH Dad
juggling kids, jobs, training and trail time. So
take this all with a grain of electrolytes, but if
I can share some experiences and help cobble
together a map to help navigate the post-race
landscape then I think it’s worth the time and
effort.
I put the call out previously, asking around my
circle who else had experienced this?
Turns out, damn near everyone. I got
messages from triathletes, Ironmen, combat
veterans, ultra runners. I was reliably
informed that even astronauts get it. The
common thread was that there would be a
big goal, it would be conquered, and then the
wind would get sucked out of the sails.
So let’s tackle the potential reasons and then
map some strategies; putting the scientist hat
on, we can demystify some of this.
Huge events place a massive toll on the
endocrine system. Homeostasis, the state of
balance, gets well and truly abandoned as we
flood the system with cortisol, inflammatory
markers and all manner of biochemical
deprivation. So it’s no surprise there is a time
and toll for recovery. A post-race pizza and
beer feels good, but you’ve got bigger bills.
We are trying to right the biological ship and
63
IT’S A RUNNER’S LIFE THE EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE: POST RACE ‘BLUES’
that takes time, and during that time, your
body and mind is floating in a chemical soup
that’s as helpful as a cold bowl of gruel at an
aid station.
Then there’s the mental and emotional
component. Suddenly we aren’t training as
much – or even at all. Nutrition slides, sleep
slides, mood follows biology. Is it any surprise
we find ourselves careening down a very
different kind of slope?
Take some comfort though that this happens
to the very best of ‘us’. After winning a record
breaking eight gold medals at Beijing in 2008,
Michael Phelps said, ‘I took some wrong
turns and found myself in the darkest place
you could ever imagine.’ He admitted to
barely training for 2012, a DUI in 2014 and a
stint in rehab before finally climbing back to
competitive success.
Turns out humans will be human. Peaks,
troughs, summits and valleys, we all have to
navigate but now it’s time to set up patterns
and behaviours to get us prepared for post-
race life. Let’s find a way to navigate the
interstitial space between events in a positive
and healthy way.
Here’s my two cents worth.
You Are Not Your Strava Profile
Unless you’re a pro athlete, you probably have
other stuff going on in your life and I bet
dollars-to-donuts that plenty of that ‘other
64
stuff’ is completely awesome. Remember that
training and racing is something you do, it’s
part of the mosaic, and unless you’re doing
it to pay the bills, let it be a chapter of your
story, not the entire book.
Embrace The Journey
By developing a love of the practice of
training, the process, the actual work of
getting to the start line, we can build a
healthier relationship with the end point. The
race can morph from some identity-defining
moment on which we hang everything,
into a reward, a chance to reap the reward
of the hard hours and sacrifices. It becomes
a celebration, not an exam. And this isn’t
unique to us runners – turns out it’s kind of a
human thing.
“Of all the things that can boost emotions,
motivation and perceptions…the single
most important thing is making progress in
meaningful work.” – The Power of Small Wins,
Amabile & Kramer, HBR.
Yep. I just quoted Harvard Business Review in
Trail Run Mag.
Hello Feelings, My Old Friend
If you’ve run an ultra you know that there
comes a moment when you fall to the bottom
of the well. Everything hurts and you want to
quit. The trick is to greet those emotions as a
visitor we were expecting, say hi, acknowledge
them and then keep moving along as we wait
for the right time to usher them out the door.
You are not your emotions. You are your
reaction to them. Don’t fight the inevitable.
Expect it, sit with it all awhile, and remember
that this too shall pass.
Tell Your Story
I love a good race report. I’ve written plenty
myself. Most of which have never seen the
light of day. But it can be a healthy and
constructive way to relive and review. Step
back and see what you did achieve, what you
overcame. Re-order and re-orient it all in your
mind. To broadcast, even if it’s to yourself,
that it is indeed enough.
If it helps, share your story with others, reach
out, post it in your favourite running group,
go for a recovery run with some mates. If the
storm won’t clear, talk to a professional. You
wouldn’t hesitate to get a massage or see your
physio or chiro so why not someone to help
you work out the knots and soreness between
your ears?
When The Light Shines
Now that we’ve chatted about what it looks
like when it feels rough, let’s shine some lights
and lift the mood. What does it look like
when it feels good?
The world needs fewer pontificators and
more practitioners so it’s all fine and dandy
for me to sit here typing away about how to
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

be the happiest trail runner in the world, but

can I take my own medicine?

Good question. I did take my own medicine

and here’s what happened.

After conquering the 614km 6633 in 2019 I

admit that I did fall into a deep dark hole. It
was unexpected, painful and confusing. For a
very long time I struggled with the desperate
need to fill that gaping void with another
event of equally ridiculous proportions.

The blues are real and I’ve seen and

experienced this personally many, many times
in my coaching business. The key is to allow
time for the dust to settle, process your goals,
drive, or motivation, then kick on with the
next ‘thing’.
But the next ‘thing’ doesn’t have to be another
massive endurance event, as quoted by coach
and athlete Mark Whittle. Mark and I have
both raced across some of the frozen expanses
of the world and I took his advice this heart.
I’m not the next event; neither is my TSS
(training stress score). My ‘major event’
scorecard sat empty for three long years until
I found the right event for me at a time that
was right from me.
In March 2023 I headed to Sweden to race in
the Montane Lapland Arctic Ultra, a 503km
backcountry single stage self-supported race
through Europe’s last great wilderness. It was
brutal, and after eight soul crushing non-stop
days of grind and grit in -35c, I crossed the
finish line and claimed second place.
But the real victory for me was what
happened next.
I reflected on the sheer volume of work it
took to even get to the start line. I rejoiced
in the clarity and quiet that comes after such
an event where you spend over a week, 24
hours a day operating totally alone in silence.
The race very nearly broke me, in every way,
but I drew solace and pride from knowing
that my training sustained me and allowed
the delivery of a performance I honestly
thought was completely beyond my capacity.
It became a celebration of my training and
preparation.
I wrote my race report and realised that it was
enough. That I was enough. That the result
was enough. I didn’t need the next thing;
that’s what other people want.
I came home to family, friends, recovery,
work, laughter and no training. And no black
dog.
And sure enough, about two weeks after I got
home, that little voice said, ‘Can we go for a
run?’ Because we love the work, the freedom
of the trails and when we stack enough work
together we get the reward to race again.
TRM is hopeful that by amplifying
Paul’s message, we’re helping raise
awareness about mental health and
depression post-race. If this story
resonates with you or anyone you
know, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14
(AU) or 0800 543 354 (NZ).

65
FEATURE FROM THE RACE DIRECTOR

A 42km competitor with Mt Skedaddle and the Organ Range in the foreground.
Image: Malcolm McRae.

66
 ISSUE 48| TRAILRUNMAG.COM

IT DOESN’T GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS

WORDS: RICHARD NEGUS IMAGES: MALCOLM MCRAE, JACK PREBBLE

As the world continues to place greater importance on ethical consumption, it has become
increasingly important for endurance races to align with these principles. You could argue
that runners nowadays are not only looking for events that provide an honest challenge but
ones that also place an emphasis on sustainability and the environment. These themes were
the centerpiece on a stunning autumn day at Island Hills Station in April. Race Director
Richard Negus gives us the low-down on Skedaddle, a brand new New Zealand trail running
event where nature is the number one motive.

Yonni Kepes gallops towards the home straight having just refuelled at the
historic Bush Hut aid station in the 30km Skedaddle race. Image: Malcolm McRae.

29 APRIL 2023 – NORTH CANTERBURY,
NEW ZEALAND: After almost two years
of hard work and having navigated
the storm that was COVID-19, the
WLPHºQDOO\FDPHWRZHOFRPHUXQQHUV
IURPDFURVV$RWHDURDWRDKLGGHQ
JHPDWWKHIRRWRIWKH6RXWKHUQ
Alps.
The majestic Island Hills Station,
located about an hour and a half
north of Christchurch, was to
become centre stage for a brand
new trail running event called
Skedaddle. The race was conceived
as a means of raising funds for
conservation work within the
Mandamus Preservation Reserve. This
3,300ha un-grazed area includes
one of the largest QEII Open
Space Covenants in Canterbury.
To enable conservation activities
such as pest, predator and weed
control, the farm generates limited
resources from Manuka honey, Beech
honeydew and tourist activities.
Most of the conservation work is
carried out by volunteers and
recreational hunters. Property
owners Dan and Mandy Shand set a
lofty goal of one day reintroducing
the iconic kiwi to this hidden
corner of North Canterbury and what
better way to raise awareness than
a trail run through their backyard!
Aptly named after the highest peak
on the property, Mt Skedaddle
(1704m), the event saw hundreds of
runners from across Aotearoa sign
up to #RunForNature. With four race
GLVWDQFHVRQRҬHU6NHGDGGOHKDG
something for everyone.
The longest course, and what is
FRQVLGHUHGWKH»DJVKLSUDFHLV
the NP°7ZR7XQQHU±, which was
given its name due to the 2000m+
of elevation gain. The 30km
‘Wilderbeast’RҬHUVDVOLJKWO\
shorter option for those wanting to
experience a slice of the pristine
native bush and striking mountain
vistas. Short and steep, the 15km
‘Dozer Line’ course climbs to
the highest elevation of all four
races via a steep track that was
carved out by a well-known local
bulldozer. The NP°:HDQLQJ0XVWHU±
rounds things out and provides the
little ones with a whirlwind tour
of the farm and expansive views of
Mt Skedaddle and the impressive
Organ Range.
Taking on the role of Race Director
for a brand new event brings
with it a lot of pressure but
also bucket loads of excitement.
Being able to shape the event at
every step of the way is about
as liberating as it gets. And as
a passionate trail runner, you
do not want to leave a single
stone unturned when it comes to

67
FEATURE FROM THE RACE DIRECTOR

68

organising an event for your fellow
trail running buddies!
,UHPHPEHUWKHGD\,ºUVWPHW6KDXQ
Monk, the Walking Track Operator
at Island Hills Station. Often
referred to as the ‘Bush Janitor’,
Shaun is the face of the Island
Hills Station Walking Track and
the man primarily responsible for
developing and maintaining the
vast network of trails. His passion
for the outdoors is infectious
and following a whirlwind tour of
the property, I simply knew that
we had to deliver a trail running
race. Fast-forward 18 months from
our initial meeting and without
the threat of COVID-19 cancelling
HYHQWVZHºQDOO\JRWWRZRUNRQ
launching Skedaddle.
The role of a Race Director is
perhaps one of the most varied of
all professions and one that is
often misunderstood. One minute you
can be writing health and safety
plans, coordinating volunteers or
liaising with sponsors; the next
minute you’re out on the trails
with a backpack full of signage and
»DJJLQJWDSH7KDWLVZK\,HQMR\
the role so much since no two days
are ever the same.
7KHWLPHDQGHҬRUWUHTXLUHGWR
stage a race of this scale is
monumental and without the support
of the Event Goals team and our
amazing volunteers, Skedaddle
certainly wouldn’t have been
possible. The lead-up to race day
typically involves long hours but
you always manage to adapt and
get through the never ending list
of tasks without ever losing any
enthusiasm. I guess that comes down
to the fact that you’re always
IRFXVHGRQGHOLYHULQJDºUVWFODVV
athlete experience; a mantra that
was shared by myself and the rest
of the event team. Ultimately,
you want your participants to go
away from the race feeling elated,
despite how sore their bodies may
feel.
Before you know it, race day is
upon you and the nerves begin to
set in. “Have we marked the course
to the highest possible standard?
Have we made it too challenging?
Will the athletes like the medals?”
There are a myriad of thoughts
circulating in your mind in the
hours before the klaxon sounds.
And then of course there is always
the weather to contend with.
Fortunately, the weather gods were
looking out for us this year and
it turned out to be a spectacular
North Canterbury day.
My focus has always been centered
on making memories. If you create
something special then people will
QDWXUDOO\ºQGRXWDERXWLWDQG
support it in whatever way(s) they
can. Whether that is by sponsoring,
volunteering or participating. When
ZHºUVWVHWWKHDPELWLRXVJRDORI
welcoming 400 runners to Island
Hills Station, we knew that it was
going to be a monumental challenge,
HVSHFLDOO\IRUDºUVWWLPHHYHQW
With so many standout races to
choose from, and considering the
rising cost of living, who was
going to be prepared to put their
hand into their pocket and sign up
to our race?
To our delight, over 420 runners
committed themselves to run for
nature at the inaugural race. An
achievement that ranks near the
very top for myself and the team
who have given so much to bring
Skedaddle to life.
It’s hard to describe the feeling
as you watch scores of runners
FURVVWKHºQLVKOLQHDOOIURP
GLҬHUHQWZDONVRIOLIHDQGDOO
having achieved their own personal
goals. Everyone’s journey to the
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
VWDUWOLQHLVGLҬHUHQWDQGVRWRR
are their motivations to run. And
that is the beauty of the sport of
trail running and the incredible
community that has been built up
around it.
I’m excited to see where this
special event will go in the
future and how the proceeds will
help to restore biodiversity for
future generations to enjoy as they
skedaddle along the trails!
If you are looking for a new trail
run to add to your calendar for
2024 then look no further than
Skedaddle! Visit skedaddle.co.nz to
ºQGRXWPRUH
Event: Skedaddle
/RFDWLRQIsland Hills Station,
North Canterbury, NZ
'LVWDQFHV42km, 30km, 15km, 4km
When: 27 April, 2024
Info: skedaddle.co.nz
Left page, clockwise:
. Aaron Shaskey crosses the Glencoe River footbridge
in the early stages of the 42km Skedaddle race Image:
Jack Prebble.
. A 30km runner with Mt Skedaddle and the Organ Range in
the foreground. Image: Malcolm McRae.
. 10-year-old Lilliana Roberts took 1st Female in the Kids
4km Skedaddle. Image: Jack Prebble.
. 15km Skedaddle entrant Victoria Whitmore gets a high
five from the sidelines as she comes in to the finish
line. Image: Jack Prebble.
This page:
. The start of the 42km Skedaddle. Image: Malcolm McRae.
69
CONTRIBUTION

THAT 50KM

WORDS: ANIKA WARREN-SMITH IMAGES: PHOTOS4SALE

TRAIL RUNNING HAS BEEN A SAVIOUR FOR A VAST ARRAY OF PEOPLE. FROM
ESCAPING THE EVERYDAY GRIND TO FINDING THEMSELVES AGAIN AND
REDISCOVERING THEIR TRUTH. VICTORIAN ANIKA WARREN-SMITH WENT
FROM ROAD TO TRAIL RUNNING IN 2013, REVELLING IN EVERYTHING THAT
SURROUNDED HER – FROM THE TERRAIN AND NATURE-SCAPES, TO THE
COMMUNITY WHO SUPPORTED HER. IT WASN’T UNTIL 2022 THAT SHE BIT
THE BULLET, THOUGH, AND TRAINED FOR HER VERY FIRST 50KM. TODAY, SHE
SHARES WITH TRAIL RUN MAG READERS THE KNOWLEDGE SHE GAINED,
EXPLAINING HOW SHE DID IT AND WHAT WORKED BEST FOR HER.

When I started writing about preparing To give you some background on my

for my first ultramarathon, the practical
stuff first came to mind. Training plans,
gear, nutrition, etc. Whilst all of those are
important, and I will get to them later, I
realised they were not the most important
for me. The key element I needed before
anything else was the belief that I could
do this because for quite some time, I had
diminished my trail running efforts.
I’m just a short-course runner…I’m very slow…I
could never run a half-marathon.
running history, I began in 2012 by
downloading the C25K app. I’m sure I nearly
died attempting the first run of 8x1-minute
intervals. On the second attempt, I took my
toddler son in the pram and remember him
looking around at me somewhat concerned
by his puffing red-faced mother! Who
knew your arms were so important when
running? But the hook with running is how
quickly you can see improvements. By the
end of the 3-month program, I was rather
chuffed when I managed 20 minutes of
non-stop running.

That kind of talk. On reflection, I can see The following year, I discovered trail
this had certainly been holding me back running and didn’t look back. Even
from challenging myself to extend beyond though I was not great at going up hills,
my comfort zone. I loved the challenging terrain and the

72
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

73
CONTRIBUTION THAT 50KM HOOK
beautiful places I was running through
as well as the camaraderie of the trail
running community. My results improved
consistently every year, yet I still didn’t see
myself as being good enough to extend
much beyond 10km and certainly did not
consider myself an athlete.
Slowly but surely though, my runs began
to get longer and in 2019 the unthinkable
happened. I did something I said I’d never
do – I entered a half-marathon. I picked the
prettiest (though not necessarily easiest)
course I could find to try and make it a bit
more bearable, the 23km Great Ocean Road
Running Festival half. This was purely to
qualify for a 20km trail event I wanted to
have a crack at in Gariwerd/the Grampians.
Qualifier achieved, I ran that race. The
Wonderland 20km was my longest and
toughest trail run ever. It was awesome and
I was starting to think bigger, but still only
slightly bigger. I was in awe of ultrarunners,
but I could never do that. Perhaps though,
I’d be able to manage a leg of the Surf Coast
Century with a team. Surely 25km would be
achievable?
Then came 2020. On the other side of
COVID restrictions, I returned to running
at a level that my body wasn’t ready for.
My fitness had taken a hit after too much
homemade sourdough and more walking
than running. One of the (few) lockdown
silver linings was time for introspection and
working on myself, and by the end of 2021
there had been a significant mindset shift.
I finished a Masters I’d been doing for more
than five years and had the confidence I
74
needed to apply for a job after 14 years out
of the workforce. I was honestly stunned
when offered a position! Here I was starting
a brand new career, as a grad mind you, at
age 46.
Somehow managing to maintain a base
running level, I had just finished the
GOR half again with a Wonderland 20
qualifying time, when an ultra running
friend suggested I do the SCC50km. I think
I scoffed at the idea, but a seed had been
planted. If he thought I could do it, then
maybe it was possible.
For two weeks I thought about it. Then I
started verbalising those thoughts. The
idea became more appealing; I was finding
my return to the workforce quite an
adjustment. The learning curve was huge
and often left me feeling exhausted. I knew
if I didn’t have a goal, exercise could easily
fall by the wayside.
There was also another, deeper reason
why I was drawn to the challenge. It was
inevitable that things were soon going
to become very hard at a much more
personal level. My mum was living on
borrowed time, having run out of options
to treat her lung cancer. Amidst all this I
needed something that was just for me,
something to ground me, and time to think
of everything or nothing at all. I needed
running-in-nature therapy. The fact that
the race starts and finishes in Anglesea on
the GOR, a place that my mum and I have
deep connections to, sealed the deal.
With a strong purpose underpinning why
I was doing this, I signed up at the end of
April and had 16 weeks to prepare.
Training – Obviously!
The first thing I did was source a couple of
training guides – the Hanny Alston’s trail
marathon planner which was provided with
event registration, and the 50km program
created by runner Sam Gash and the
Her Trails team. I printed a calendar and
planned out a training schedule that would
fit around work and family commitments.
My existing weekly training load was three
runs, two yoga classes, one pilates/barre
class, and one to two walks. Not much
changed with my new plan except that
I increased it to four runs per week and
focused on gradually building my time-
on-feet (TOF). To avoid over-training and
potential injury, I would factor in a lighter
TOF week every month or so.
I tried to get as much trail time as I could
and on weekend long runs, explored new
areas to add some trail variety and keep
it interesting. They all included similar
terrain to what I’d be experiencing on race
day, though nothing quite prepared me for
the clay!
Recovery & Maintenance
Daily use of the foam roller and/or massage
gun helped relax tight muscles, and I also
had regular remedial massages. I’m not sure
how much the latter helped my muscles,
CONTRIBUTION THAT 50KM HOOK
but the whole experience was deeply
relaxing, so I figure it’s of some benefit.
Active recovery on non-run days was
generally a walk (which also count in TOF
totals), and always at least one complete
rest day per week. Finally, I attempted to get
to bed at a decent time on a more regular
basis.
Gaining Information
I tried to absorb as much about ultra
running as I could from multiple sources
– books, blogs, social media, podcasts and
ultra running friends. The topic with the
most impact was nutrition and hydration.
I think these are often overlooked, yet
it’s so important to consider how we are
supporting our body day-to-day through
the entire journey. There’s no cookie-cutter
approach and our dietary needs change as
we age. I’ve certainly found what worked
for me five years ago sadly doesn’t really fly
now as a peri-menopausal woman, and this
is where a nutritionist consultation was
super helpful.
INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: Anika is a Melbourne-based trail runner who is much better at running down hills than up them. With a
background in science and long-time love of photography, she stops often for photos or a spot of plant ID.
76
All The Right Gear
The one piece of kit I had the most trouble
with was shoes, namely road shoes for
training around home off trail. I’d been
properly fitted at reputable running stores
but kept getting numb toes on my longer
foot after 5kms. A visit to the podiatrist
(also a kick-arse ultra runner herself)
revealed I’d been sold shoes that were too
small. My trail shoes were not quite as bad,
but the upshot was I needed to buy a new
pair of each type.
For everything else, I made sure that I was
across the mandatory gear requirements
and researched what would help keep me
most comfortable on a long day out. Think
things like thermal layers, toe socks and
the best anti-chaffing cream you can find.
I tried everything out many times before
race day – clothes, shoes and socks, gels and
electrolytes – and on long run days would
have my full race day pack.
When race day arrived, I was nervous
but felt ready. My main goal was just to
finish and try to enjoy the experience as
much as possible. Despite the last 6kms
looking rather dodgy (I could no longer run
downhill), I crossed the line a smidge over
my estimated time of 8hrs 30mins.
Whilst that sounds like a very long day, I
really had the best time and lots of chats
with fellow runners which helped pass the
time. My support crew (husband and kids)
later said that I looked like I was having fun
whenever they saw me.
Maybe I was just very happy to see their
smiling faces!
They were a huge part my success, as their
support during the months of training and
on the day was invaluable.
And Thus The Lesson Is Learned
Was there anything I would I have done
differently? Most definitely!
• More strength: I find it very hard to get
excited about strength work outside of
pilates class. It’s often challenging to fit it
all in, so I’m going to try breaking home
sessions down into mini workouts.
• More hills and speed work: as above,
these are not some of my favourite
things.
• More time: 5-6 months of training would
have been better to get my knees ready.
My longest run was 30km over 5 hours,
when ideally, I should have done at least
36km. Adding another half marathon to
my longest ever run was probably asking
a bit much of my body.
Nevertheless, I appeared to pull up quite
well with zero blisters or chaffing. One
big toenail was very bruised but never fell
off, much to my amazement. The muscles
were sore for a few days but nothing too
concerning, until I ventured out on my first
gentle jog and had to call my husband to
come pick me up after a few kilometres. My
cranky knees took a good four months to
recover from the inflammation but seemed
to have forgiven me now.
I am returning to the SCC50 this
September with a friend who wants to
attempt her first ultra. With a full six
months to prepare, my goal is to finish
without knee pain. Once again, the journey
is providing me with much needed nature
therapy since my mum passed away in
February. It’s been a slow start as the
motivation levels fluctuate, but I’m sure
that once again, the physical challenge will
help me through the emotional one.
Running an ultra obviously requires
both physical and mental endurance,
and commitment to the process which
is ultimately a commitment to yourself.
Whatever the training journey and race
day throws at me this time, I now know
that I am more than capable of rising to the
challenge.
Even though I may not always feel like it, I
am an ultrarunner!
CONTRIBUTION

In the Gobi Desert. Image: RACING THE PLANET.

78
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

TAMING THE
4 DESERTS
HE BEAT THE HEAT AND THEN WENT FOR THE FREEZE. DR INIA
RAUMATI FROM KUMEU, NZ DOESN’T DO THINGS BY HALVES,
AND BACK IN 2014 HE TOOK ON THE 4 DESERTS GRAND SLAM,
BECOMING THE FIRST (AND ONLY) KIWI TO COMPLETE IT – TAKING
HIMSELF ACROSS THE SAHARA IN JORDAN, THE GOBI IN CHINA,
THE ATACAMA CROSSING IN CHILE AND LASTLY, ANTARCTICA.
SINCE 2008, ONLY 89 INDIVIDUALS FROM AROUND THE WORLD
HAVE COMPLETED THE EPIC GRAND SLAM OF ALL FOUR DESERTS
ONE AFTER THE OTHER, AND TODAY HE RECAPS THE EXPERIENCE
IN PREPARATION OF A NEW BIG ADVENTURE HE HAS PLANNED
FOR HIS 50TH BIRTHDAY NEXT YEAR.

WORDS: DR INIA RAUMATI (@ULTRAMAORIDOCTOR) IMAGES: RACING THE PLANET

Staggering through the heat haze of the
salt flats like a cowboy from an old Western
movie whose horse had died long ago, I
spotted the white dome of the aid station.
Well, I hoped it was the aid station and not
a mirage, but typically mirages don’t sing
happy birthday, do they? I’d planned on
doing something memorable for my 40th
birthday. I didn’t count on not being able
to remember it, but that’s what happens
when you run 250km in the heat of Chile’s
Atacama Desert – a place so inhospitable
that they use it to test the Mars rovers.
The Atacama Crossing race was the hardest
of the events; with altitude and heat
combining to literally cook you. The sun
not only beat down, but reflected up off the
salt plains, which crunched like coral under
foot. With long stretches of no shelter, you
ran first thing in the morning when it was
cool, tried to survive the midday heat, and
if still out in the evening, picked the pace
up again.
It was the best birthday I have ever
had. Luckily a film crew was making a
documentary on a fellow runner and I
somehow got interviewed, so at least I have
some footage of the event. It hadn’t started
out this way, and I never planned it, but I
was midway through my third ever 250km
self-supported ultramarathon and almost
(because at the time, I was running my 3rd
out of 4 events) becoming the first ever Kiwi
to complete the Racing the Planet 4 Deserts
Grand Slam.
Completing four desert ultras – the Sahara,
Gobi, Atacama and Antarctica – all in a
calendar year (once finishing, I did become
the first to complete the Grand Slam).
1000km of self-supported Type 2 fun in
some of the most testing conditions of any
race, all with the added bonus of carrying

79
CONTRIBUTION TAMING THE 4 DESERTS
Traversing across the snow and ice in stunning Antarctica.
Image: RACING THE PLANET.
all your food and supplies you need for
seven days. With very little ultra running
experience, and even less sleep, I happened
to be working one night shift at work when
I decided it would be a great idea to enter
my first ever multi-day ultra. A couple
months later with a dodgy Achilles that my
physio thought would either be ‘sweet as’ or
rupture, I was in Jordan spending my first
night in a survival bag under a Bedouin tent
as it rained for the first time in years.
I wasn’t the only one who looked out of
place at the start line. My pack was way
80
too heavy and my kit was a hodgepodge of
gym and tramping gear, but at least I didn’t
show up with a red ‘Jordan’ souvenir cap
on, sideways. That was Atul Patki from the
USA, and by the end of the series we would
become good mates. I liked him from the
start, and it wasn’t just the fact that he was
obviously more clueless about these events
than I was. It was because the night before
while everyone else was complaining about
the cold and the wet, he had been snoring
like a train, oblivious to it all.
Attitude is everything in these sort of
events, including your ability to accept that
things won’t go to plan, shrug it off and
move on. After my first day I emptied out
most of my pack to ditch as much weight
as possible. Atul came in almost last and
quickly displayed the Kiwi slang he had
learnt by announcing to everyone, “This
sucks, bro”.
The next day I broke out the poles and
accepted that a large portion of my day
would be more hiking than running. By the
start of the third day I had a solid routine
going – eat, poop, run, eat, sleep, repeat.
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

Dr Inia Raumati (left) at the finish line with two other participants of the
2014 Antarctica leg of the 4 Deserts Grand Slam. Image: RACING THE PLANET.

At the start of the long stage on day five,
which was more than 80km, of which
some people would be running through the
night or sleeping on the course; Atul was
still there, unlike some more experienced
runners. In fact the night before when
someone asked why his pack was still so
heavy, Atul pulled out a stash of chocolate
bars he had been carrying all that way to
offer to everyone; legend.
The long-stage was tough. We climbed the
‘Turkish Road’ over the mountains towards
Petra, and I passed lead runners vomiting in
the altitude and heat. We went the wrong
way, after local kids removed the marking
flags and I had to race to keep up with a
faster runner when my head torch died.
To this day I can’t remember crossing the
finish line that night. What I do remember
was how swollen my feet were, and how
after a deep sleep other runners were still
coming in the midday heat the next day.
Including our mate Atul, still smiling and
complaining how it “sucks bro”, with an
attitude that we would dub the ‘Atul factor’
whenever something went wrong. It turns
out he was planning to run all four of the 4
Deserts races that year, because he wanted
to prove something to his daughter. After
a short run into Petra the next day it was
time for pizza and a few beers. Maybe it
was the fact that Atul was going to run all
four races, or maybe it was one too many
beers, but it didn’t take long before I’d put
my hand up to try and be the first Kiwi to
complete the Grand Slam.
I wish I could say that with my experience
from Jordan that everything became easier
in the year’s subsequent races. Flying
into China for the next race in the Gobi

81
CONTRIBUTION TAMING THE 4 DESERTS
Desert, the Gobi March, the airline lost my
checked luggage, which contained all my
race food and most of my clothing. With
a rapid connecting flight into the middle
of nowhere, I showed up to race check-in
planning to run in my boxers and try and
convince the organisers I could live off a
packet of biscuits.
I put a sign up on the check-in board
with a list of kit, my room number, and a
message requesting donations, and actually
managed through the kindness of the
other competitors to have enough kit to
start. The only problem ended up being the
food donated was mainly from the Asian
competitors, and was a lucky dip for every
meal, as I had no idea what was in the bags.
A breakfast of rehydrated rice and squid (I
think) saw me constantly visiting the toilets
on day one. I was still running to the bushes
at day two, almost being unable to continue
when I couldn’t eat or drink anything
without an attack of the squirts. I managed
to survive, and by the long stage was feeling
good and actually managed to climb into
the top 20, with a couple new mates Rob
Trepa and Brett Foote, who kept an eye on
me when I was sick.
Having a good long stage would turn out
to be a recurring theme for my races. In
truth looking at the race timings, all I ever
did was stay consistent while others either
slowed down or pulled out from injury.
INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: Dr Inia Raumati isn’t a fast runner, but he is a fast eater, so the natural fit was for him to run multi-stage ultras to truck
on stubbornly while carrying all his snacks. Inia trains in Riverhead Forest with his coach Doug the Huntaway and is planning to achieve his
second 4 Deserts Grand Slam in 2024. He loves type 2 fun, coffee, scenic poops and petting dogs.
82
By the time we hit Antarctica at the end
of the year for the Last Desert race, all the
Grand Slam runners were pretty fatigued.
So I decided to team up with Brett and
Rob (with Atul as team mascot) to help
get each other through. The weather that
time of year was uncharacteristically poor
and on day one I had to take the liner out
of my right hand glove, insert an instant
heat pack, and shove it down the front of
my pants, to literally stop my nuts from
freezing. I had long since ceased to be able
to feel my feet and now arguably more vital
parts of my anatomy.
The wind had picked up, stirring up the ice
and snow, making vision at times almost
impossible. Even with crampons attached
to the outside of my running shoes gripping
the ice, forward momentum was hard to
come by. We had spotted penguins earlier
from the ship and now they seemed to be
mocking us. As we ploughed forward as a
team of three, a group of three penguins
followed behind in the tracks we had made,
copying our every move. Stopping when we
did, looking at us with heads held sideways,
then continuing to waddle on behind when
we moved on, easily keeping pace.
It reminded me of something out of a Three
Stooges or Benny Hill skit. And since the
race rules had clearly stated that ‘penguins
have right of way’, there was nothing we
could do about it.
In typical Kiwi fashion at the end of
the final stage, the first port of call on
returning to the ship was to hit the bar for
a beer, followed by some less thought out
semi-clothed photos on the bow of the
ship. Arguably it topped off the best year
of my life and set me up to look for further
challenges including volunteering on
rescue helicopters, reenlistment with the
army, and most recently being one of the
handful of competitors that managed to
complete the Ice Ultra in Sweden this year.
There are so many unique race experiences
to be had, both at home and abroad.
Next year to celebrate my 50th, I’m aiming
to complete a self-supported 250km
multistage event on every continent
within a calendar year. I’m aiming to
raise funds for a scholarship for Māori
students interested in a career in the
health sciences to be able to run one of
these races as a team, as I truly believe that
the opportunity is life-changing. I’ll be
starting in New Zealand (because hey, we
are our own continent now), and finishing
in Antarctica. Eight races in all, 2000km,
a lot of dehydrated food, lost toenails, new
mates, and hopefully catching up with
some old ones.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Dr Inia Raumati caught on camera
before the start of the 2014 Sahara Race; The Sahara
Desert can be a brutal and unforgiving place in this
world; The Atacama Crossing in Chile isn’t on most
people’s minds to run through, but it was for Dr Inia
Raumati in 2014. ImageS: RACING THE PLANET.
ÁǝƺxǣǸƺ!ƏȸȇƺɵÁȒɵȒɎƏÁȸƏǣǼ«ɖȇ
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 OFF THE BEATEN

THE BEST PICS FROM

THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHERS
CAPTURED THE MOST SCHMICK TRAIL, LANDSCAPE OR VIEW WHILE OUT FOR A RUN?
TAG OUR SOCIALS HANDLE @TRAILRUNMAG ON INSTA.

RAIN, HAIL OR SHINE

Day 2, Leg 1 of the Great Southern Stage Run with a
group of team runners heading past the well-known
landform called Greens Pools, in the rain. And yes, that’s
a runner on the far right wearing just his socks (which he
regretted doing soon after aka blisters!).
Image: Travis Hayto

84
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

85
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

CHASING THE FINISH

The RACV Solar Great Ocean Road Running Festival sees thousands of runners gather in the idyllic south-west coast of Victoria and partake in a variety of trails up to
60km in distance. Here, a runner chases the 13km finish line as they speed through Great Otway National Park.
Image: Robert Geary

NOT SO CONSPICUOUS
Day 1, Leg 2 of the Great Southern Stage Run and Alan Williams (2022 Solo Male Winner) is on the Bibbulmun Track with Conspicuous Cliffs Beach in the background behind
him from where he’d just run from.
Image: Travis Hayto

86
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

TO THE HIGH POINT

42km runners approach the highest point of
the Skedaddle course in New Zealand. With
four distances – 42km, 30km, 15km and a
kids 4km – all courses are point-to-point
along beautiful singletrack trails through the
privately owned Island Hills Station.
Image: Malcolm McRae

87
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

ATOP THE MOUNTAINS

WA runner Claire O’Brien-Smith enjoys a final stretch of
the legs before jetting off to Innsbruck-Stubai for the
2023 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships
where she represented Australia in the long course
(86.9km, +6500vm).
Image: noéko

88
 ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

TRAILS OF SOLITUDE
Team runner Alan White enjoys a moment of
solitude as they approach the halfway mark
of the 2023 Surf Coast Trail Marathon, by
Tour de Trails, held in Vic in mid-June.
Image: Aaron Collins

89
REVIEW TRAIL SHOES // VECTIV ENDURIS 3
WORDS & IMAGE: GILES PENFOLD
THE ENDURIS 3 ENDURES
THE TEST OF TIME
In need of an everyday trainer that gets
the job done just about anywhere? Meet
the new Vectiv Enduris 3.
Hot off the press, this shoe is part of The
North Face’s latest line-up, a star studded
bunch that was tested at UTMB by top
athletes and amateurs alike. I haven’t
experienced their shoes until now, but
given the brand is synonymous with
quality outdoor gear, my expectations are
high. I still remember how stoked I was
about receiving a TNF jumper hand-me
90
down as a kid…and I’m pretty sure my
younger cousin now wears it.
According to their website, this third
version of the Vectiv Enduris is all about
versatility, balanced stability, cushioning
and traction. With this in mind, I went
out and pounded the pavement, ran some
trails, and heck, even dragged them along
to the gym a handful of times.
In terms of feel, I’m a sucker for a more
minimalist shoe and the Vectiv Enduris
are by no means a barefoot shoe. With
that said, I gradually warmed to its
generous cushioning. The 31mm/25mm
stack height feels really supportive and has
a springiness that I’m not used to (plus it
doesn’t cook your achilles or calves). I also
noticed its generous toe box, something
that a lot of brands are starting to catch
on to, with this model genuinely letting
your feet splay and grip the trails when
necessary. It took me a few jogs to get used
to the Enduris’ high cushion but once
acclimated I actually surprised myself,

describing them to a friend as ‘damn
comfy’. First box: ticked.
‘How are the Enduris performance-wise?’
the same mate asks me. The short answer?
Solid. The longer answer? Solid with a
caveat. Let me explain.
As the most approachable and beginner-
friendly shoes of the TNF line, their
purpose isn’t to be flogged or redline on a
speed 25k or 50k trial race. Instead, their
objective is as an all-rounder, and who
doesn’t love an all-rounder? After a few
weeks of becoming acquainted, I found
myself nonchalantly wearing this pair all
over the shop. If you really want to scream
‘I’m a runner!’ to the world, I suggest
wearing the neon colourway to your local
gym.
Bonus points if you wear skimpy split
shorts as well.
Jokes aside, the Enduris 3 held up just
fine during my sets of calf raises, Olympic
lifts and plyometrics. Side note: If you’re
a more experienced runner looking
for a high performance shoe, I’d go for
something like the Vectiv Sky or Vectiv Pro
(both pairs are carbon plated).
By now, I’ve hopefully insinuated that the
versatility on the Enduris 3 is epic! I tested
these on slow road runs and also picked
up the pace on non-technical trails. For
context, the longest trot I took them on
was 22k, and by the end of it I felt like I
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM
was gliding on clouds (more on this in
tech specs below). The verdict though?
They held up considerably better than I’d
anticipated and felt easy to run in.
THE LOW DOWN
GREAT FOR:
Here’s the low-down on the shoe’s
tech specifications. First things first, Everyday training,
they’re quite light compared to similarly terrain variety
cushioned shoes from competing brands
(Men’s 307g, Women’s 257g). The 6mm
drop remains the same as previous NOT SO GREAT FOR:
models of the Enduris, however notable High performance races
changes include an extra 2mm of stack
with a revised EVA formula and a more
comfortable overall design. The rockered TEST CONDITIONS:
midsole is definitely a highlight, ‘delivering Hard-packed dirt,
forward propulsion’ according to TNF. I
was initially sceptical about this feature, paved road,
but found that once I got in the groove pea gravel
on a run, the rocker genuinely did its job,
propelling me forward and making things
feel easy (also referred to as ‘gliding on TESTER:
clouds’, patent pending). Giles Penfold
The outsole carries 3.5mm lugs which held
up well on the trail, although I didn’t wear TESTER MECHANICS:
these through particularly muddy terrain. Neutral
The upper feels roomy and yet, the foot
locks in nicely.
VITALS
Overall, the Enduris 3 is a great all round
RRP: $250
trainer and runner that won me over. It’s a
no frills, dependable shoe that has a strong WEBSITE: thenorthface.com.au
combination of cushioning, traction and CONDITIONS: Shoes provided for
versatility. It’s also the most affordable
pick of the Vectiv range, and comes in two testing by The North Face
striking colourways. An excellent update
from The North Face.
91
ADVERTORIAL TRIPLECROWNUNDER & AUSSIE TRILOGY
TARGET A TRIPLE CROWN GOAL
OR THE AUSSIE TRILOGY
In June 2022 about 50 runners lined up at
the start line of the Unreasonable EAST
200miler in the Blue Mountains ready to
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Web:
ultraseries.com.au
Host:
Ultra Series
Dates:
Delirious WEST, 7-11 Feb 2024
Irrational SOUTH, 10-14 April 2024
Unreasonable EAST, TBC
ISSUE 48 | TRAILRUNMAG.COM

93
 WIN A PAIR OF BROOKS
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Beat rocky terrain and steep hills with confidence in a set of Brooks’ all-new Cascadia 17 mountain trail shoes. With
impressive technology to boost your stability, traction and comfort, the Brooks Cascadia 17 is truly the Cadillac of
trail shoes. Their secret weapon is the new Trail Adapt System, consisting of an integrated midsole, zonal outsole system
and a Ballistic Rock Shield–giving you boosted control, grip and protection, even on the most technical trails. If that wasn’t
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Green outsole system that’s even made from 25% recycled content. With DNA LOFT v2 technology in the midsole, you’ll
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TRAIL THERAPY WHATEVER IT TAKES
WORDS & IMAGE: SOPHIE GERAGHTY

WHATEVER IT TAKES
Volunteers at trail races are deserved of no less than The Order of Australia. From hugs and words of
encouragement to rousing runners from the pits of despair and certain DNF’ing and popping blisters
with their bare teeth to keep them moving.
But why? Unsung glory, hours sitting in hot/cold/wet/dark/lonely aid stations, waiting hand and foot
on tired runners trying to make them eat, handling their bodily fluids and fluid-soaked belongings and
touching their mangled feet! Surely no one would sign up to that?
Yet somehow these utterly gross experiences are outweighed by the humanity and connection in being
part of something bigger than yourself.
Disclaimer: there is also a very fair chance you will be utterly inspired by these runners and decide
to enter the race the following year.

IMAGE: Michelle Hanlin at Irrational South, Flinders Ranges, April 2023.

96
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COMMUNITY DIRECTORY | We have introduced this new section to make space for our community partners. To book these contact: toby@adventureentertainment.com
WISE WORDS
SIMON HARRIS
FOUNDER OF FOOTPRINTS AUSTRALIA
I was born in Nottingham in the UK and
now live on a farm with my partner in a tiny
place called Salem in South Australia. I wake
up every day and look outside at the fields,
wondering how did I end up here? We’re doing
a lot of work re-wilding on the farm but also
many wild areas around where we live that
really need conserving. On the farm, we have
an irrigated intensive native seed orchard and
a couple of paddocks full of native grasses that
we’ll harvest seeds to re-wild a 300-hectare
parcel of degraded crown land.
I love running on the trails at a beautiful
spot called Monarto Woodlands. Where I
live is fairly isolated so I never see another soul
whilst out running and I love that so much.
Even on these same trails, things look different
depending on the season, time of day and
weather conditions. I just like to go there to
enjoy my running. It’s the time in my day when
I feel the most free. There is nothing else you
need to do or worry about, and I absorb myself
in the activity and surroundings. I stay away
from anything that tries to direct my attention
towards things that are not really important.
Things like Strava, I just don’t use, and I’m not
big on social media.
One thing that drives and motivates me
is getting people into nature. I’ve seen the
power of connecting runners to wild places
that need protecting so they can understand
what needs protecting but more importantly
realise their own power and agency to do
something about it.
Over the years, I’ve experienced and
seen the power and motivation that these
runners have when they unite to protect
the environment. Runners are natural allies
98
of the environment and I feel so lucky and
excited to be a part of this community. I
also feel lucky to be surrounded by my trail
running community; they’re a bunch of active,
motivated and gifted humans who make the
world a better place in their own way.
So what is Footprints? Footprints is a
climate action camp for trail runners and
walkers. The premise is pretty simple: 15
exceptional people come together for five
days in the Central Highlands of Victoria to
bond, develop environmental knowledge and
leadership skills, and connect participants with
grassroots organisations and localised projects
that are active in conserving and protecting
these wild lands.
Campers are challenged, have fun, advance
climate solutions through the development
of their own projects, and eat delicious
home-cooked food whilst working closely with
world-class mentors and inspirational speakers
such as Blake Hose, Majell Backhausen,
Erchana Murray-Barlett and Beau Miles. The
goal is for campers to be inspired by what they
can do and to come away feeling prepared
to take action on climate change. The camps
provide inspiration, know-how and confidence
to be effective climate action leaders.
We want runners to bring their ideas,
initiatives, and projects to the camp for
development to contribute to the ongoing
campaigns to protect an additional 355,000
hectares of native forest through the Great
Forest National Park Proposal. Footprints
camp is dedicated to the idea that we all
benefit from a healthy environment. Creating
space in the wild for runners to build and
strengthen connections – there’s no better
way to create action on important issues than
sharing your goals with like-minded people
and collaborating to find solutions.
Outside of Footprints and on a personal
level, I’d love to run the Zion Traverse in the
US. It’s an epic long run through an incredibly
diverse landscape that cuts through scenic
canyons tucked between towering sandstone
cliffs. Apparently, the route drops from nearly
3000 metres to less than 1000 metres, with
an epic change in the vegetation from a lush
environment to sandy desert. Plus it’s next to
Moab which I love!
My absolute go-to meal after an event has
to be a Sunday dinner, UK-style with all
the trimmings – Yorkshire puddings, roast
potatoes, nut roast, mash potato, roast turnips
and peas – omg, yum! And if that’s not enough,
a large packet of salt and vinegar chips.
I know it sounds cliché, but nature has
taught me that the ‘best things in life truly
are free’ (queue Janet Jackson and Luther
Jackson). When I think about most of my
treasured memories, all of them are in nature
or the outdoors with people I love! I think
people are feeling immense overwhelm at
the moment and often some of the simplest
things and joys are overlooked and not given
any credit. For me, one way I deal with the
overwhelming is to get out into nature as often
as I can – it costs nothing!
RIBELLE RUN

THE HERO HITS

THE TRAIL.
For those looking for absolute precision and high adaptability on any degree
of difficulty or type of terrain. RIBELLE RUN is designed for short to medium
distance trail running.

To locate your nearest stockist I T: 1300 784 266

sales@outdooragencies.com.au I www.outdooragencies.com.au
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