tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36375043354973747332024-03-06T03:54:48.632+11:00Running For The Wong Reasonbineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.comBlogger78125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-31508105781682360292021-06-18T12:09:00.002+10:002021-06-18T14:16:08.492+10:00Product Testing: Hoka Stinson ATR 5 / Altra Olympus 3.5 / Topo Phantom (Road)<p>I am pretty much reliant on these 3 brands going forward with my choice of maximal cushioning shoes these days. Personally I can't get enough of stack height & would always go for the thickest I can find. </p><p>For HOKAs I will need to be extra careful with selecting the widest fit - so far the STINSON ATR 5 is a very nice fit and I would base that as my reference for future HOKA shoes. All my previous experience had landed me in narrow-ish shoes (not as narrow as Salomon).</p><p>With ALTRA the fit is very good now that I have nailed the correct sizing for shoe. I have little complaints about Olympus 3.5 and look forward to getting a good deal on the 4.0. </p><p>With TOPO I would say they have nailed the toebox design (for me at least) in terms of perfect snug for wider feet. And their shoes seems to be lighter in general vs HOKAs and ALTRA without compromising materials and design too much. I am excited to see them going thicker with Phantom2 going to 33m and Ultraventure2 sitting on 35mm stack and I can't wait to see more of their shoes heading that way.</p><p><br /></p><p><b> Hoka Stinston ATR 5 - stack 39mm, 348g (US 9)</b></p><p>Pros</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Perfect & comfy fit for wider feet</li><li>Wide midsole - stable for trail</li><li>Durable upper & overlays - built like a tank</li></ul><div>Cons</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Not Vibram outsole</li><li>Heavy & burly</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjin9up_FyXhD4hi_ZuufWMGGWrLlbXwFlchrDpZoo9rTjYKah0s7zetO9Fyt5w1QRqGai8LmVwPNEI7hnVo9mAL_4mZ9akXVBi3h1zInv3d60wZiYfDy-FzurKUaqYSZMIjREatWYBlgc/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjin9up_FyXhD4hi_ZuufWMGGWrLlbXwFlchrDpZoo9rTjYKah0s7zetO9Fyt5w1QRqGai8LmVwPNEI7hnVo9mAL_4mZ9akXVBi3h1zInv3d60wZiYfDy-FzurKUaqYSZMIjREatWYBlgc/w200-h200/image.png" width="200" /></a></div></div><p></p><p><b>Altra Olympus 3.5 - stack 33mm, 326g (US9)</b></p><div><p>Pros</p><p></p><ul><li>Perfect & comfy fit for wider feet</li><li>Wide & comfy midsole - stable for trail</li><li>Durable upper & overlays </li><li>Vibram outsole</li></ul><div>Cons</div><div><ul><li>Toebox might be too spacious (for some people)</li></ul><div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiuVqoanix-peWQLPnwybVVG0ti1mXB6IXCJBKFLYbpxtruTG13lKEU3qUvWHHDHtUeNBww7dqq9w_3zyfInTs1pww5LgTda4lD8XFtU-NQJcdDeflKxsmROaLhgukR6A3OxGzkqvgYx4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="161" data-original-width="319" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiuVqoanix-peWQLPnwybVVG0ti1mXB6IXCJBKFLYbpxtruTG13lKEU3qUvWHHDHtUeNBww7dqq9w_3zyfInTs1pww5LgTda4lD8XFtU-NQJcdDeflKxsmROaLhgukR6A3OxGzkqvgYx4/" width="320" /></a></div></div><p></p><p><b>Topo Phantom - stack 30mm, 289g (US9)</b></p><p>Pros</p><p></p><ul><li>Perfect & comfy fit for wider feet</li><li>Durable upper & overlays </li><li>Toebox is spacious yet snug</li></ul><div>Cons</div><div><ul><li>(Personal pref) 30mm does not feel enough for road</li></ul><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZbwVhnrSa1mzO9pDjPaVNHPg42IENa1easlNVoos23XoMWoHLXqdUHfMDf_7n59dC0UbBoiJZ_5iF6zYPXTZMPtXd3oNztpjpAXfgosRfh5aw69e71U-9Kd5i1t9m2IIsF8dKZqvdGM/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZbwVhnrSa1mzO9pDjPaVNHPg42IENa1easlNVoos23XoMWoHLXqdUHfMDf_7n59dC0UbBoiJZ_5iF6zYPXTZMPtXd3oNztpjpAXfgosRfh5aw69e71U-9Kd5i1t9m2IIsF8dKZqvdGM/" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div></div></div></div></div><p></p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /></div><p></p>bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-86446896825362812662020-01-26T23:13:00.000+11:002020-01-27T22:24:19.232+11:00Aonijie C962# 12L Hydration Backpack - Product Review (First Impressions)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So this entry is purely first impressions - I've yet to take this pack out for a run & I've just condensed my evaluation to 3 things.. </div>
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<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Material and finishing - similar to Salomon S-Lab Sense Set</li>
<li>Sizing and fit - similar to Salomon Advanced Skin 12, but not as flexible (details below)</li>
<li>Pricing - one must not forget pricing of the C962 is around say one-third of the Salomon packs </li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left: C962 / Middle: S-Lab Sense Set / Right: Adv Skin 12</td></tr>
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<b><u>Material & Finishing</u></b><br />
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Hopefully you can see from the pictures that the C962 feels more similar to S-Lab Sense Set - which is generally softer to touch than the Adv Skin 12. The Adv Skin 12 seem to use different type of material and finishing which seem to suggest it to be potentially longer-lasting..<br />
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Once again, these are just my first impressions - we'll only know how the pack holds up with time.. at least material wise, they're all using the same stuff - Nylon/Polyamide + Spandex/Elastane + Polyester.. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top: C962 / Mid: S-Lab Sense Set / Bottom: Adv Skin 12</td></tr>
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<b><u>Sizing & Fit</u></b></div>
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So my chest measures 93cm landing me in the M/L sizing. I've followed the size guide provided for the Aonijie products & below is a copy of that guide. First impressions fitting is that it feels a bit small. The C962 doesn't flex as much as the Salomon brands - mainly due to the front straps (not stretchy type), and I've actually decided to get a L/XL sizing instead.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUj3se5EvsVH-MbO0yC60hYLpoPJlEsFcVZ04b-DRL2QQ_iHI35QZk0WMVtokdmCgeCzllfh0jrnlm4muRSKw6DbondnUpofoz_cYLRGVjcqaMTF9-Ss6XiziOK_JtkcJwUvZALXPDouw/s1600/61O%252BEm27gCL._AC_SL1210_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1205" data-original-width="1097" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUj3se5EvsVH-MbO0yC60hYLpoPJlEsFcVZ04b-DRL2QQ_iHI35QZk0WMVtokdmCgeCzllfh0jrnlm4muRSKw6DbondnUpofoz_cYLRGVjcqaMTF9-Ss6XiziOK_JtkcJwUvZALXPDouw/s640/61O%252BEm27gCL._AC_SL1210_.jpg" width="579" /></a><br />
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The M/L pack actually fits my wife far better, and she is actually in the 80cm bracket (ie. S/M according to size guide).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_L1MoVSdW8G0HfEUsOyTZW3mRTL-qLUqY6Uxv5d9Q6fgo2K4k8qrgvrYJS8oPTtwotTkueKhduHousRjmsBQyVDLC8HQ5TNnT-Luoew62yGpNtWRetTt6yMOvlLo65RsKSfE3kahEmdc/s1600/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="491" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_L1MoVSdW8G0HfEUsOyTZW3mRTL-qLUqY6Uxv5d9Q6fgo2K4k8qrgvrYJS8oPTtwotTkueKhduHousRjmsBQyVDLC8HQ5TNnT-Luoew62yGpNtWRetTt6yMOvlLo65RsKSfE3kahEmdc/s400/Capture.PNG" width="308" /></a></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzEO5mWsa331xpzjWWJhtQLUDUAoO85tHBVrs_SSB4oJJqJ-RL3MVgxw_cdvZHijWwyYtUsTQym7OD4MxXmLQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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So when I wear it, 2 particular areas feels a bit tight - the underarm armpit area and the front. You can see in the pictures how very stretched the pack looks - the lower front strap is already maxed out and I had to move both straps up 2x notches from its default position. This is all still with an empty pack, nothing loaded yet! Perhaps its my bulky top frame.. or maybe I'm just fat :P<br />
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And the following pics shows the underarm armpit compartment is tucked right under the armpit which could be fine if the overall pack flexes when I rotate shoulders/stretch out my arms, you can feel this area just rubbing in and not quite flexing together with the body, once again this is all with an empty pack.. I can only expect it to feel tighter in a full pack. So hopefully going with one size-up, this concern will go away.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6pafBJ_kHPI0cJh9adWATREMeJVFre4_g6t4dgHHOAY4QDSosvnyL2G7yY9OwIKaoGhyphenhyphen-_Kw3K3mbbaUKj-y2VK8C-e6i1ljn99JNLvPLTnthLKr1x7B26UZOv5L5sMjchOMoBlyDgds/s1600/20200124_222142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6pafBJ_kHPI0cJh9adWATREMeJVFre4_g6t4dgHHOAY4QDSosvnyL2G7yY9OwIKaoGhyphenhyphen-_Kw3K3mbbaUKj-y2VK8C-e6i1ljn99JNLvPLTnthLKr1x7B26UZOv5L5sMjchOMoBlyDgds/s400/20200124_222142.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In comparison, the Adv Skin 12 at size M has the stretchy cords as front straps, and which the underarm compartments are similarly placed (right under the armpits), the pack flexes with you and it doesn't feel like it's ribbing in at all..<br />
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With the S-Lab Sense Set size M/L - you get stretchy front straps as well plus the underarm armpit compartment is further away from the armpit, as a result no ribbing at all.. a very comfortable pack as a result.<br />
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Next up, waiting for the L/XL pack to arrive - hopefully the fit will improve & we'll take it out for a spin & see how it holds up..<br />
<br />So at this stage my first recommendation would be to consider getting one size-up especially if you believe that your body frame looks anything like ours.. <br />
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Stay tuned folks..<br />
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-35850913608613159232018-05-17T23:09:00.000+10:002019-05-13T16:29:59.454+10:00Altra Olympus 2.5 - Product Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYMc8LdkQD78oWk6Bk9j6X67I8FzUr081z3CiB52uU9cCbXi1_fRn-ytDYHYuSn38ve5ORGoVphPm0lC7zCT-PiENnhr8PD5ccDzZLL3o_zP6LxK0ugcfOv64Cj_q0opVGQ33XmZfLV0/s1600/ao_2.5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="716" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYMc8LdkQD78oWk6Bk9j6X67I8FzUr081z3CiB52uU9cCbXi1_fRn-ytDYHYuSn38ve5ORGoVphPm0lC7zCT-PiENnhr8PD5ccDzZLL3o_zP6LxK0ugcfOv64Cj_q0opVGQ33XmZfLV0/s640/ao_2.5.png" width="582" /></a></div>
As always I'm not going to talk about things you can read about on other websites. I would want to share pointers which are not out there at the moment wrt this shoe.<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Fit - Get Half-Size Bigger!</u></b><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Straight up - I found out that the fit is indeed a bit smaller than the standard US9 for my feet - so if you've had confusion & doubts because you read different reviews from different websites, trust me get half-size bigger than your normal sizing. Having said that it's a bit interesting for my case actually because my left foot is actually half-size smaller, it was perfect for the left... the right, however, yearned for a shoe half-size bigger.<br />
<br />
My solution is just to wear thinner socks. (I would recommend injinjis or stiegen)<br />
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And with such fitting, my poor right foot has been suffering bit more toe-crushing during the hill descends compared to my left - and I kept tightening the shoe-laces to ensure the mid-section is as secured as possible, holding the feet in place & not the toes keep jamming into the shoes, give the toes room to splay.<br />
<br />
Having said that the uphill grip is actually pretty damn fantastic. The foot/shoe synergy was fabulous during the uphill climbs because the shoe/feet are more aligned.<br />
<br />
But with the extra half-size, one could wear thicker socks and the toe-crushing during downhills won't be as bad.<br />
<br />
The shoes will feel a bit puffed up cushiony from the box as well - and everything would feel a bit tight. I even contemplated wearing the shoes without the insert at first - it was THAT fluffed. New shoes I suppose. As I finished up my 3rd run in these shoes, I know the material has been stretched and the cushioning dampened by a fraction... and it is now slowly moulding to my sole/feet a bit more & hopefully I continue to develop that synergy between feet & shoes. All this, in addition to the half-size issue, made me think hard & long whether I've made a mistake with the sizing and the choice of shoe!<br />
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<b><u>Heel Cushioning - Going Downhill</u></b><br />
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So I circled out the area where it was causing skin abrasion during the downhills. The extra heel cushioning held the feet well during uphill, however during downhills, this extra cushion would jab into the back of your feet and cause abrasion. Which was what happend to me. Way round it? wear sufficiently protective socks! Thin injinjis didn't cut it. I would probably need to add extra tape on my ankle as well around that area.<br />
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<b><u>Grip - Muddy Terrain</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
So I'm hoping the pictures will show that yea it was pretty muddy - and yea the grip was SUPERB. I guess many shoes with deep talons would do well in these conditions, it wasn't as if it could grip even on a log or stone with slippery surface.. (yet to find a shoe that will!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHxrL5l0f35DQgvNf8E37kwvdmBdb_Q1-AjfkITPC7pYCn73NZwaC4ZZvK9iWpxa95L5j9QEZBMATYhNz_UWNWHlaCfO0zEyTk1AozbUz4NPaulThiAnYEtsX_miEhmSyeX-Yl3uiWaA/s1600/P5130595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHxrL5l0f35DQgvNf8E37kwvdmBdb_Q1-AjfkITPC7pYCn73NZwaC4ZZvK9iWpxa95L5j9QEZBMATYhNz_UWNWHlaCfO0zEyTk1AozbUz4NPaulThiAnYEtsX_miEhmSyeX-Yl3uiWaA/s400/P5130595.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ubXMmZBBhR_v22Ac8q07V_iJcHAmMr5QJCzl0uUX-xSBh4cJhEHT9sYI5Kq_xmO6QC0yggxZyL79luu6K6vyLwOanCUgf78Ztfci-aeAm3ehBDe36szPb57y_AtnXNRZz0OL17PhE8U/s1600/P5130603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ubXMmZBBhR_v22Ac8q07V_iJcHAmMr5QJCzl0uUX-xSBh4cJhEHT9sYI5Kq_xmO6QC0yggxZyL79luu6K6vyLwOanCUgf78Ztfci-aeAm3ehBDe36szPb57y_AtnXNRZz0OL17PhE8U/s400/P5130603.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Compared to TOPO MT2</u></b><br />
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I do feel that TOPO does feel a fraction snuggier. hmm.. perhaps its because TOPO uses softer material, the Olympus does feel much hardier in terms of overall material. The few times the VIBRAM sole brushed against my legs, it felt rough and tough.. like it would last forever. I wouldn't be able to say the same about the TOPO's sole..<br />
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The shoe-shape design is very similar but not 100% the same as welll..<br />
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I've yet to fully test how well both shoes drains, and whether the upper material dries out quick. But judging from the material itself, my guess would be the TOPO.<br />
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Still early days to be honest.. and that's all I have for now, hope you've found this early review useful anyhoo.. thanks for reading.<br />
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Happy running folks!<br />
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UPDATE<br />
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<br />
So with the increasing mileage I'm gathering with these shoes - I am finding the INSERT is adding another layer of cushioning & thickness that's pushing the overall feet against the upper. And it has been uncomfortable to say the least - downhill especially. The toes get jammed way too much etc. So with all the above factors combined, ie. smaller sizing, jabbing heel support... the best workaround so far I have is simply...<br />
<br />
Remove the insert<br />
Wear protective socks<br />
<br />
The roominess of the shoes for my overall feet is absolutely improved when I remove the insert, its just the shape of my feet vs the design I suppose. So if you have similar challenges, you can try this method too..<br />
<br />
By removing the insert it also means the feet is closer to the ground, and for a maximalist shoe - this is going to help with the tech downhills where you want cushioning but also not lose that ground-feel too much - for better stability & control.<br />
<br />
As for socks, I splurged further & bought these <a href="http://www.runningwarehouse.com.au/Drymax_Lite_Trail_Run_1_4_Crew/descpage-DLTR14S.html" target="_blank">Drymax Lite Trail Run 1/4 Crew</a> online - thinking the fold-down or turn-down would add the extra layer of protection against the jabbing heel cushion... we shall see whether my theory works after this weekend.. (update: it worked! however hotspots were developing at heel area during technical descents.. the lack of sole locking in heel movement would be the likely reason ~ will need to resort to taping to overcome that.. )<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9NXd2vAMW39xmOvxE3MpsU03-lcct_JEgjFjS2yVyJoPM9yx07E7ZMiS-WX1ir3DJMTf8LB9fIvshgb9fKOGlqhc87WP5yCmdvFeg1R_hnCx2hKRHyZNWbab55VGRVk_oxaawbi6BYc/s1600/20180529_203533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9NXd2vAMW39xmOvxE3MpsU03-lcct_JEgjFjS2yVyJoPM9yx07E7ZMiS-WX1ir3DJMTf8LB9fIvshgb9fKOGlqhc87WP5yCmdvFeg1R_hnCx2hKRHyZNWbab55VGRVk_oxaawbi6BYc/s400/20180529_203533.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The insert is decent quality & provides extra cushioning.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdEPER6d1SodMzkzIajoqy_Nf_0Oxof2yKM5Jfo__X58YDRn0gyE1bzn894IvfQMTksjAC2a_ls1OFED5HvSdslANWsV9ABcJ2Xiuxj8FwQqdiOrttxlNdT8MuHThq7lJCQ1QLN21kXsc/s1600/20180529_203542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdEPER6d1SodMzkzIajoqy_Nf_0Oxof2yKM5Jfo__X58YDRn0gyE1bzn894IvfQMTksjAC2a_ls1OFED5HvSdslANWsV9ABcJ2Xiuxj8FwQqdiOrttxlNdT8MuHThq7lJCQ1QLN21kXsc/s400/20180529_203542.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaving that extra few millimetres for the toes were absolutely necessary in my case.. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgft9D69Lxdf1km1jC_7iwGloWqUo4pBiLkXA4VcCiVNhCOXfikWihvdpcJ-FABxBLQPgh_jwTzm-vQDaMn6H2bb6l5pYUx5pMfnWTWB14I2AOWHoM-bF6S1J0E8JVC9GLwnDFNUQqEiBI/s1600/20180529_203641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgft9D69Lxdf1km1jC_7iwGloWqUo4pBiLkXA4VcCiVNhCOXfikWihvdpcJ-FABxBLQPgh_jwTzm-vQDaMn6H2bb6l5pYUx5pMfnWTWB14I2AOWHoM-bF6S1J0E8JVC9GLwnDFNUQqEiBI/s400/20180529_203641.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a pic to show what I think is a normal feet that I own.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36ldz-lYz9kyV03TZEqAjlD_JpoOZnFDA2-XeUSKGfwsAOg0bAuWqEIepAj3vFoXnCZ72JkI7wumispMznbj9FIWUGtmE5SqC5lQdEHq0CdEHtxW8q69Otq2QOiRCt5vOeOt88aVSfB0/s1600/packaging_trail_running.600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="600" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36ldz-lYz9kyV03TZEqAjlD_JpoOZnFDA2-XeUSKGfwsAOg0bAuWqEIepAj3vFoXnCZ72JkI7wumispMznbj9FIWUGtmE5SqC5lQdEHq0CdEHtxW8q69Otq2QOiRCt5vOeOt88aVSfB0/s400/packaging_trail_running.600.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drymax.. unfortunately only found online in Aus (as far as I know)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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UPDATE - almost a year later.. (yes I haven't been running much so help me God!)<br />
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<div>
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So almost a year later.. this shoe has been through 600++km now & I thought it would be a good idea to share how it now looks like! Never mind that there's already 2 version of Altra since 2.5 - it might serve as a good reference of how recent versions would wear out.. :)<br />
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<br />
So the wear-out points for me were...<br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Big toe joint area - my left foot is smaller so it's only the right shoe that has suffered in this area.. pretty big tear on the side upper.. I've done a bit of DIY sewing to hold it in place (don't judge me!))</li>
<li>Little toe area - both shoes have similar tears showing.. and will continue to tear</li>
<li>Heel cushioning area - natural wear & tear.. it has made the area softer & no longer jabs painfully into my heel like it used to.. </li>
</ol>
<br />
Pretty obvious these tear points were due to the shape of my feet, <a href="https://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com/2014/06/salomon-xt-hornet-fellraiser-product.html" target="_blank">so if yours measure similarly against mine</a> - it's worth noting that the upper of 2.5 will wear out in these areas..<br />
<br />
Few more 20ks & I should be retiring them for neighborhood runs (still plenty of cushioning left!) - I must say the grip/cushioning has remained the plus point throughout.<br />
<br />
And the only minus point I can think of would be the narrow heel base = less stable - which they've fixed in later versions. And make sure you get a half-size up. I've heard that version 3.0 fits similarly to the 2.5. And the 3.5 fits differently again.. might be good idea to hit the shops if you're shopping for the Olympus.<br />
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-75837707205908510402018-04-12T01:46:00.001+10:002018-04-22T06:43:59.253+10:00Topo Athletic MT-2 - Product Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
<a href="https://runrepeat.com/topo-athletic-mt-2">https://runrepeat.com/topo-athletic-mt-2</a><br />
<br />
You read this website on this shoe & you would go like... yea this shoe looks pretty good, from the pictures it looks well-cushioned, should be a comfy ride..<br />
<br />
You buy the shoe & then try it out... and you go like.. wow, everything on the website is true, except maybe the shoe needs more cushioning man..<br />
<br />
Perhaps its me. And my old bones needing some cushioning love..<br />
<br />
But damn that 23mm heel sure feel bit thinner than that.. I'm fairly sure it's a combination of me & my chunky self & my running style but perhaps I've been a bit pampered by the likes of HOKAs & maximalist cushioning ..<br />
<br />
Yea so be warned if you're a bit like my case.. all the reviews online are stating the cushioning is great etc etc but guess what I did - I replaced the thin Topo shoe insert with a gel insert (bought from shoe shop) + an Ortholite insert (from one of my old Salomon shoes) - just to make it work for myself.<br />
<br />
Yea so be warned..<br />
<br />
WOULD LOVE FOR TOPO TO LOOK INTO MAXIMALIST SHOES - GIVE THE LIKES OF ALTRA OLYMPUS A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY...<br />
<br />
What I do love? The shoe does fit LIKE A GLOVE - absolutely a joy to wear & I'm thrilled to find this, I would say, the PERFECT fit? Roomy toe box + snug secured middle.. very very nice. It is also not 'swimmy' as one review stated (as compared to an Altra - can't testify against that but I do agree wrt the one Altra Lone Peak v1.0 I own)<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VfHITKtU_6EI33oFGe1Q9L68CSO0Xqufo2_8U75qcQUWyWRauAwr2zVwLoMAngj2lXIrw-fTcwoOHvBCVoW2B4JwOah_V2OikHsrQWp1XXmPb_u0pDaiaCv3AiKje0WQMVugdLxK2bo/s1600/topo5.5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="806" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VfHITKtU_6EI33oFGe1Q9L68CSO0Xqufo2_8U75qcQUWyWRauAwr2zVwLoMAngj2lXIrw-fTcwoOHvBCVoW2B4JwOah_V2OikHsrQWp1XXmPb_u0pDaiaCv3AiKje0WQMVugdLxK2bo/s640/topo5.5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />
The profile is simple & straightforward with some comfy lacing going on at the top - fits very well even if I don't wear socks. It is LIGHT as hell. I definitely feel the 3mm drop aiding my gait & to be honest quite a revelation to me, I mean I finally understand all the rage surrounding low drop shoes. (Also shows how much I know about running!)<br />
<br />
The outsole has not given me any issues on light trails or road so far. Feels & look moderately grippy but I have not brought it for the super technical trails just yet because of the missing rockplate but I will.. eventually.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNU8Am7OBaWdISIWKPy7utCLrmQWbVu7rKErM7HLFadsoyYR3k1957UUEewtqOkPQr-JB0GOZWKk0gncY5Uz3ygiHvwMBxJzyjw14de6VPNe5iO7_V2y8sX1FIrpmU1VEQBq3KK-gvlI/s1600/topo4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="454" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNU8Am7OBaWdISIWKPy7utCLrmQWbVu7rKErM7HLFadsoyYR3k1957UUEewtqOkPQr-JB0GOZWKk0gncY5Uz3ygiHvwMBxJzyjw14de6VPNe5iO7_V2y8sX1FIrpmU1VEQBq3KK-gvlI/s320/topo4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So far if that cushioning was perhaps closer to the 26-29mm range I'm sure my feet would absolutely be in heaven. And if it pushed to 30-36mm range I'm sure I would gladly surrender my credit card.<br />
<br />
There's another model in the 25mm range actually = Terraventure. More rugged & suited for technical trails. Don't think that extra 3mm & rockplate would suffice for what I'm looking for though - certainly would be an improvement. (Vain note: looks less appealing too colour wise)<br />
<br />
Sizing wise - I've bought a US size 9 - fits right for my <a href="https://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/salomon-xt-hornet-fellraiser-product.html" target="_blank">measurements</a>.<br />
<br />
I'm keeping the MT2 as my training shoes for the shorter local neighbourhood runs & park-runs - a shame because I would love to bring them on my longer runs but the missing cushioning that my legs need is holding me back.<br />
<br />
What can I say... except that I hope my legs do get stronger and that this review has helped provide further insight into this lesser known Topo which I'm sure will be making a big splash in the coming years.<br />
<br />
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Update<br />
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<br />
Tested them in a more technical run recently - held up well, you will feel the missing rockplate on the sharper edges - but overall not too bad.<br />
<br />
Essentially you adopt a different running approach when wearing different shoes, ie. probably can't bomb the downhills as you would with maximalist shoes, instead just go with smaller faster gait etc. and you would perhaps avoid sharp edge rocks and hunt for soft grounds more often. And hence once you do that, it ain't too bad.<br />
<br />
Another plus with trails, the thinner cushioning you don't feel as much coz you're on soft grounds most of the time. You would feel the impact more once you're back on roads.<br />
<br />
Happy running folks!<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-35751371219365723922018-01-25T23:03:00.001+11:002018-04-12T00:33:13.393+10:00Salomon Sense Pro Max - Product Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2Qbs-owAF8UTB-Iq3gnvlNVEW8lJ9Em8rqFbFzQ2B3XAZRwOCnuYPffT1jtUgZ0ac2EGol9x0l2jBLJTp8saQvLTrxTTgUuGC_iHp713AGgLzIgbMDCrgq3wC6NK9eJJKdP-5cdDMxg/s1600/81uYC6hqYCL._UX395_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2Qbs-owAF8UTB-Iq3gnvlNVEW8lJ9Em8rqFbFzQ2B3XAZRwOCnuYPffT1jtUgZ0ac2EGol9x0l2jBLJTp8saQvLTrxTTgUuGC_iHp713AGgLzIgbMDCrgq3wC6NK9eJJKdP-5cdDMxg/s1600/81uYC6hqYCL._UX395_.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So after much deliberation... I have chosen Salomon Sense Pro Max to be the successor of my go-to trail shoe after the retirement of my much celebrated Hoka Challenger ATR...<br />
<br />
This shoe caught my attention only because it was on sale. :) I have been reading up on Altra, Topo shoes & constantly monitoring prices of Hoka Challengers/Speedgoats etc.. but with events looming I knew I couldn't wait forever to secure new pair of go-to trail shoes ..<br />
<br />
I knew nothing of the the Sense Pro series after deciding to stick to the generally wider & cushioned range of shoes which Salomon is not exactly known for...<br />
<br />
But lo & behold.. I was most intrigued when I read that the Sense Pro Max is Salomon's first stab into maxi-shoes... that's a first. And with stack height higher than the Challenger, it was also in line with my search for cushioned shoes.<br />
<br />
I was further convinced when I read on more than one website it was suitable for wider feet as well...... it was an easy choice from then on.<br />
<br />
I've only really run 10km to date in them, but it was enough to tell me this:<br />
<br />
What I absolutely love:<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>The snug-fit 'endofit' sleeves that all websites been going on about, truly feels awesome.. in fact it's so nice that I prefer to wear these shoes barefoot! This also means you can more or less forget about pairing them with thicker trail socks.. </li>
<li>The trademark quality Salomon upper with quality lacing.. its a fact - Salomon care about quality & I always feel I am paying for something with quality whenever I buy Salomon.. I love it.</li>
<li>The maxi-ness of it all.. </li>
<li>The road-trail combi... </li>
</ol>
What I don't quite love:<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>It's not exactly wide....? bit narrow for the toe-box section in fact.. I was a bit let down because I was expecting the same wide fit as XT Hornet... and whilst it doesn't feel restrictive like most Salomon shoes and the upper does stretch... I feel that what some websites are stating ie. they are good for wide feet is a tad misleading?... or perhaps people need to fully aware that all these terms of very much relative.. ie. your wide is not the same as my wide... or maybe explain that the upper will accomodate wide feet? so I would highly recommend for people to check your feet against my <a href="https://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/salomon-xt-hornet-fellraiser-product.html" target="_blank">measurements </a>- and then make a call on these shoes. In all fairness these shoes are likely to start stretching & moulding to my feet - and in fact time will tell whether I have more to say re the fit for wider feet.. </li>
</ol>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbla2of65AgOejejyJWfG8ODhqpHY5guz9qR19CejsyFCF2w0mwJYa8Wi-4ZHr_hBJPVba1TjHGI9ieX_RazXmaQMTlvAUIFeUsWUAJnt9Tdw-KdQhAgMhIHx3y-V8r3tlMnYGgXgwyFg/s1600/20180124_233219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbla2of65AgOejejyJWfG8ODhqpHY5guz9qR19CejsyFCF2w0mwJYa8Wi-4ZHr_hBJPVba1TjHGI9ieX_RazXmaQMTlvAUIFeUsWUAJnt9Tdw-KdQhAgMhIHx3y-V8r3tlMnYGgXgwyFg/s400/20180124_233219.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see Hornet is the real wide here... SPM not so much..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EAiaWXvj6D9ZDp4QDRib04JBQ-7YSkVebF7VHtVjYLEefl2_jlU6OmFN_S5tBhi8rTshyYbXNOLDA6nFsI0scX3d1V60NEsPDped65ldOCEraH2CP-g1DdV9jGVQ01IF7G6Hkl_UsT0/s1600/20180124_233742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EAiaWXvj6D9ZDp4QDRib04JBQ-7YSkVebF7VHtVjYLEefl2_jlU6OmFN_S5tBhi8rTshyYbXNOLDA6nFsI0scX3d1V60NEsPDped65ldOCEraH2CP-g1DdV9jGVQ01IF7G6Hkl_UsT0/s320/20180124_233742.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOushflE30yS9-J_RroWtSkKbgug_yIyxSmJTOSoq6a5_JFR2AJVYU4MCNNTtUBihmfqeN4Rvyoo8Fdqa-cYDvfka0SwEBuC1rqFeZxE4TNyVXUXge9NDDIRy-V1NClK7qDkdNxohKw3A/s1600/20180124_233858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOushflE30yS9-J_RroWtSkKbgug_yIyxSmJTOSoq6a5_JFR2AJVYU4MCNNTtUBihmfqeN4Rvyoo8Fdqa-cYDvfka0SwEBuC1rqFeZxE4TNyVXUXge9NDDIRy-V1NClK7qDkdNxohKw3A/s320/20180124_233858.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See the difference in fit? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3iI7GvLWBvSGr2fpEtuKw-cRJ6Fmd8mojdVP4QqOz1nZJs0UTmH5q3l-__gWwCM89g6Pt38iL4pcAkdYGx44MUWOcd7SvJY0UF5WHA2LvG_-V8G6q8luj-fIXrK1gCrodaxyk-0aPUE/s1600/20180124_233755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3iI7GvLWBvSGr2fpEtuKw-cRJ6Fmd8mojdVP4QqOz1nZJs0UTmH5q3l-__gWwCM89g6Pt38iL4pcAkdYGx44MUWOcd7SvJY0UF5WHA2LvG_-V8G6q8luj-fIXrK1gCrodaxyk-0aPUE/s320/20180124_233755.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyZMbnqSdiVxlvi7P4bfmuaavPz9KCY0DSH0o5eXOhIGWCmLfkGo91vzjghMiRl2u4gGm_40_TAwuc2CCyaqvPcb6xoPayH_m4J4TvTC5VM857WZg2fGN8o0CL7xXRmagkXMcPHxrNDQ/s1600/20180124_233805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyZMbnqSdiVxlvi7P4bfmuaavPz9KCY0DSH0o5eXOhIGWCmLfkGo91vzjghMiRl2u4gGm_40_TAwuc2CCyaqvPcb6xoPayH_m4J4TvTC5VM857WZg2fGN8o0CL7xXRmagkXMcPHxrNDQ/s320/20180124_233805.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see how the upper stretches & mould to the shape of your feet... Just hope they will stand the test of time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What I have yet to love:<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>I have yet to discover how they feel over longer distances & on fully technical trails.. </li>
<li>I have yet to see how long-lasting the upper material is.. especially where the sides of my feet are stretching against.. </li>
</ol>
What is worth remarking:<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>The sizing for Sense Pro Max is indeed true to size.. compared to other Salomon's - very very very confusing for online buyers & I hope Salomon starts aligning their product sizing to have some consistency across their range. The picture above shoes SPM at UK8.5 and XT Hornet at UK9.5 - and as it turned out, they felt about the same to my toes... one really needs to be mindful with this one.. </li>
<li>Sole - it's no longer by Ortholite... it's by good ol Salomon.. eventhough it states on the tongue that there is some Ortholite involved here .. see below</li>
</ol>
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikbEeiBqjr1Uv1zTuzjS2hFIf23dX294Ut7-X4mtKOG-WP2aOmCoODK-oB7wBc23IiIV8qE7hDwDxC1xaaue4nanxSuzcM2U494474fgtda9ZM-nplIaXF1M1Ico8AqCcEY7dE5JiauTY/s1600/20180124_233237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikbEeiBqjr1Uv1zTuzjS2hFIf23dX294Ut7-X4mtKOG-WP2aOmCoODK-oB7wBc23IiIV8qE7hDwDxC1xaaue4nanxSuzcM2U494474fgtda9ZM-nplIaXF1M1Ico8AqCcEY7dE5JiauTY/s320/20180124_233237.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1O8q0O-0dfyQhs_n2GTAcSNtOhIRKFPNbpjazPKPEs2sO6zMGvpmzpAR7VVMryasUxu7gBBn9C7Tl6-Jy3TN7xDWatMPe4U9KYNvXbD0U5a4MZH5cNoNjrQ5RAHi98lGJX1vvPd73F4/s1600/20180124_233408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1O8q0O-0dfyQhs_n2GTAcSNtOhIRKFPNbpjazPKPEs2sO6zMGvpmzpAR7VVMryasUxu7gBBn9C7Tl6-Jy3TN7xDWatMPe4U9KYNvXbD0U5a4MZH5cNoNjrQ5RAHi98lGJX1vvPd73F4/s320/20180124_233408.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe a deliberate call to keep the sole thin ... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
I will certainly have more to yak about on these shoes as I hit some serious trails with them... stay tuned folks!!<br />
<br />
Other reviews:<br />
<br />
https://runrepeat.com/salomon-sense-pro-max<br />
https://ultrarunnerpodcast.com/salomon-sense-pro-max-review/<br />
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Update<br />
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<br />
I've done about 200km on these shoes to date - on the technical trails the shoe does feel a bit stiff on the little rocks & edges - and my old ankle injury have been tested few times I must say. It isn't as cushioned as compared to the Hokas. So despite its 'maximalist' title, this shoe does feel more like a normal cushioned shoe. Slightly on the stiff side to be exact. Sorry Salomon but its true. On the plus side, the stiffness of the outsole would also means is that the shoe will certainly be tough enough to last a while. Certainly not great news for old bones like mine.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-32467105482345237592018-01-13T23:22:00.002+11:002018-01-13T23:30:26.360+11:00Baw Baw Trail Run Festival <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Yup. Did the 21k 2 years ago & just getting a bit nostalgic tonight of my fitter days & felt like writing something :)<br />
<br />
Overall recollection of the 21k event is... I shat myself, I remember panting a lot .. I recall running this event knowing I would suffer due to lack of training, so yea... make sure you train your elevations! It is a mountain event afterall.<br />
<br />
Overall route impression was.. challenging undulations & mixed bag wrt terrain, runnables + single trails + semi-technical to technical.. one would want to ready running through certain sections that have undergrowth covering one's view of the single-trails that are laden with roots & rocks.. going fast along these sections (esp downhill) would require nimble feet, strong ankles (& decent flexible shoes - stiff shoes will likely result in rolling one's ankles)..<br />
<br />
Or one could go slow :)<br />
<br />
Expectedly this wasn't my best run in my best form. I ran simply to satisfy my trail-running-in-mountain itch :)<br />
<br />
Would I recommend the event - absolutely. If you're pretty seasoned trail runner.. this event would make a decent challenge. I heard from friends the marathon distance is sweetly brutal as well. If you've just started to love trail-running, then take it easy on yourself for this one & just soak in the beautiful Baw Baw when you're out there..<br />
<br />
Happy running folks! Need to get back on my feet soon.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMHS-J_HBKif1RqiNrf8fFj1SdnJQBEojSOV7YXmpEVmse9Rh2flYibeE11d-J7vF4i5FHidbU4mH0mfpZvtTUfmKtxEaw9k4Bo5LAMVhNB5LREl_i57xFjR0BSdJR1zEeR7kmhJQOC-k/s1600/2540_10153488977236220_6085084988757173035_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMHS-J_HBKif1RqiNrf8fFj1SdnJQBEojSOV7YXmpEVmse9Rh2flYibeE11d-J7vF4i5FHidbU4mH0mfpZvtTUfmKtxEaw9k4Bo5LAMVhNB5LREl_i57xFjR0BSdJR1zEeR7kmhJQOC-k/s640/2540_10153488977236220_6085084988757173035_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Pant pant pant.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-81837862018696429122017-12-30T00:21:00.005+11:002022-01-04T17:06:07.147+11:00Shoe Sizing (Personal Ref)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Feet measurement - 23.5cm long/11cm wide..<br />
<br />North Face Vective Enduris = US9.5 UK8.5 = ?</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hoka Challenger ATR3 - US10 = just right<br />
Hoka Clifton 3 - US10 UK9.5 = toes bit roomy/long<br />
Hoka Rapa Nui - US9 UK8 = toes just fitting, narrow</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="background-color: #04ff00;">Hoka Stinson ATR 5 - UK9 = perfect</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;">Salmon Sense Pro Max - UK 8.5 = bit narrow + length OK.. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;">Salomon</span> XT Hornet - <span style="background-color: yellow;">UK 9.5</span> = just right<br />
Salomon Fellraiser - <span style="background-color: yellow;">UK 9</span> = bit narrow + toes ok<br />
Salomon XA Pro 3D - US8.5 UK8 = toes just fitting, bit narrow<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Topo MT2 - US9 = bit tight</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="background-color: #04ff00;">Topo Phantom - US9.5 = perfect</span><br />
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Altra Lone Peak 1.5 - US10.5 UK9.5 = too big, too roomy</div>
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Altra Olympus 2.5 - US9 UK8 = need half-size more.. </div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #04ff00;">Altra Olympus 3.5 - US9.5 UK8.5 = perfect</span></div>
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NB MT610 - US10 UK9.5 = toes bit roomy<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span>NB</span> MT876 - US9 <span>UK8.5</span> = toes just fitting, tight</span><br />
NB RC900 - US9 UK8.5 = OK, bit narrow<br />
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Brooks Pureflow - US10.5 UK9.5 = too big<br />
<span style="background-color: lime;">Karrimor </span>- <span style="background-color: lime;">UK8.5</span> = OK<br />
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Wide roomy shoes (in general) = UK8.5<br />
Hoka - depends on shoe shape.. = UK9 ?<br />
Salomon = UK9.5? (if you can find roomy shoes)</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Altra Olympus = US9.5 UK8.5</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Topo = US9.5 </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-36274023801710688312016-05-22T23:25:00.000+10:002018-01-21T23:32:25.470+11:00Hoka One One Challenger ATR - Sizing & Product Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I know this model is pretty much 2015 and Challenger ATR 2 is already out, but I read somewhere the versions are pretty much the same between the two so I'm hoping to contribute my quick insights & a bit of guidance re sizing & fitting :)<br />
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I took a chance with the fitting as I couldn't find this model anywhere in the local stores.. and as it turned out, it does fit well with my wide-ish forefoot! Hoorah!<br />
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So if you have feet like mine - see <a href="http://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/salomon-xt-hornet-fellraiser-product.html" target="_blank">HERE </a>- then this fits well - choose size US 10.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZfc9TtioCpHC3fHiM2lpxcxxD4saVH21B4DvgF_4baNXeXGpoSgk2YjQ01BAi2oOo3tNT0PsYIgbYU5RBDuPfsvm18lvvh8JLwP2BNY0tVIKvPRez9gxkmxjLdoOy-oZ17ti1UhY4Yo/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZfc9TtioCpHC3fHiM2lpxcxxD4saVH21B4DvgF_4baNXeXGpoSgk2YjQ01BAi2oOo3tNT0PsYIgbYU5RBDuPfsvm18lvvh8JLwP2BNY0tVIKvPRez9gxkmxjLdoOy-oZ17ti1UhY4Yo/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
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I think if you're researching to buy this shoe, you pretty much know all the pros of this shoe & Hoka shoes in general.. personally for me, I like the fact that it is giving me maximal cushioning protection (my joints are getting old!) with minimal clunkiness & weight. And of coz the fact that it fits!<br />
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And on the point of old joints - that is the only reason why I have chosen Hokas over Salomon.. it's the long-term I need to think about as well, so one should really start protecting one's joints before it is already damaged.. having said that I have swapped the Hoka standard insoles with Salomon's Ortholite insoles as it was more comfy. The Hoka ones were way too thin for my liking..<br />
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This shoe fits really differently to my previous Hoka Rapa Nuis.. where the toe box was just much tighter.. see here how the shape is different:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSEG2apQ6_QIppMjlMHrq94l3GLQne0s6qx_eTwPUutU15WMCVHbGgcZTiIMz4rNM9uzySTBEUSWPNKM0JcvdyesscweCqjqng_yTN0KwGj_hkzAS1pw-oEjkUSKPCg5sm3mldHoOBNMI/s1600/mens-hoka-one-one-challenger-atr-black-cyan-413489_450_tp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSEG2apQ6_QIppMjlMHrq94l3GLQne0s6qx_eTwPUutU15WMCVHbGgcZTiIMz4rNM9uzySTBEUSWPNKM0JcvdyesscweCqjqng_yTN0KwGj_hkzAS1pw-oEjkUSKPCg5sm3mldHoOBNMI/s320/mens-hoka-one-one-challenger-atr-black-cyan-413489_450_tp.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
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Additionally I've circled the area where it has made a great difference for my type of wide-ish fat feet.. the upper material is softer & more flexible allowing a better fit in that particular area. You can imagine with the big toe & bunion bone having more room - the overall feet has more toe space to splay.. here's a closer pic.. showing how I can tuck my finger underneath the bunion & how the upper allows that stretch:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cvntFhFxaPc8XaJkPBD9HVzCIRQMikQzoouE2JX6Np0cs7tQIqslIRoaGKLi6ybMzq_uViOMHX6pr9D8VcrpIbjQecCuPQFjWpn3NiCkJ-THxhx0VaaGVilFPJlQoZ6LOMSRMXQ7oVA/s1600/P1030185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cvntFhFxaPc8XaJkPBD9HVzCIRQMikQzoouE2JX6Np0cs7tQIqslIRoaGKLi6ybMzq_uViOMHX6pr9D8VcrpIbjQecCuPQFjWpn3NiCkJ-THxhx0VaaGVilFPJlQoZ6LOMSRMXQ7oVA/s320/P1030185.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The traditional laces are also a welcome design.. easier to lace & adjust like.. any other shoe? :)<br />
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I like the thin upper & tongue.. how it has been kept to a simple design & very breathable. Here's some 'inside' shots showing how airy they are:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oWCOaqtl65ULQMS6PA_D8oD8KNWXZMXdLgyyaOf5FCClk_b038IzkO3Lz4INlqkNz3nyitFsxgItA_StiuIo1x1ne0sMhrsn0AunNrMkw8mTCh3vKiLRYNSMVxc_K0zr0vz6KskHBCY/s1600/P1030180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oWCOaqtl65ULQMS6PA_D8oD8KNWXZMXdLgyyaOf5FCClk_b038IzkO3Lz4INlqkNz3nyitFsxgItA_StiuIo1x1ne0sMhrsn0AunNrMkw8mTCh3vKiLRYNSMVxc_K0zr0vz6KskHBCY/s320/P1030180.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvmmd0YnR1KC7ENL2jPp5WNtO54sdSTfKbkeGNL8trlBhHFYQ9fBgubHCU3pbRB0lVU0TkL1e7SOjRCQyT7et5JosCm3hWfS_lJiKwK-OeSx1BN74S-JHa3LUJxQ5r1p4JYySMXOwAMg/s1600/P1030181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvmmd0YnR1KC7ENL2jPp5WNtO54sdSTfKbkeGNL8trlBhHFYQ9fBgubHCU3pbRB0lVU0TkL1e7SOjRCQyT7et5JosCm3hWfS_lJiKwK-OeSx1BN74S-JHa3LUJxQ5r1p4JYySMXOwAMg/s320/P1030181.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The toe guard isn't much of a toe guard which is fine - having said that it is hardier material & pretty flexible as well.. so your toes won't be jamming into something overly stiff. Your toes are sitting couple of centimetres above ground most of the time anyway..<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCkbI9evtcFiSGn63CsPY5nMeaE1WYR6diGhxDezIJW4kGKGzei2ZOj9WGaXVyVjUn2_R1VMiRNCJNRaJockQzkrmxMfBDvRkuoLa-gtqmzOpPOVhCAiMV6CaMQxUS1Z4TpoQ3N5qd7Gc/s1600/P1030179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCkbI9evtcFiSGn63CsPY5nMeaE1WYR6diGhxDezIJW4kGKGzei2ZOj9WGaXVyVjUn2_R1VMiRNCJNRaJockQzkrmxMfBDvRkuoLa-gtqmzOpPOVhCAiMV6CaMQxUS1Z4TpoQ3N5qd7Gc/s320/P1030179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Perhaps one particular area lacking in sewing finesse is just this part of the shoe.. not sure what you call this part of the shoe, nonetheless pretty sure it could've been a bit more professionally finished up..<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKDHYzXCIITXSmbC9wVmY8m_JUqlotNRBbHb2yR5Tp5KZzGleT4EzmwVQLVjZ3tjBmhmLpztAu7KC06BuQFIpL2CuEYlW_1FuDqknSDNeeUac6tJVhsbgxA_H0dd8aRDqujAiA3J5j69w/s1600/P1030182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKDHYzXCIITXSmbC9wVmY8m_JUqlotNRBbHb2yR5Tp5KZzGleT4EzmwVQLVjZ3tjBmhmLpztAu7KC06BuQFIpL2CuEYlW_1FuDqknSDNeeUac6tJVhsbgxA_H0dd8aRDqujAiA3J5j69w/s320/P1030182.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I should mention I have had symptoms of sesamoiditis (big toe joint pain) during some runs which I thought were caused by this shoe.. but as it turned out it was due to placing too much pressure on my big toes (usually happens during steep climbs).. so in fact the cause was running technique, not shoes.. (you can read more here about this symptom & how to fix it: http://www.drnicksrunningblog.com/running-with-sesamoiditis-how-i-resolved-a-10-year-injury-by-ditching-my-traditional-running-shoes/ )<br />
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Welp.. hope you found this quick review helpful, I certainly think this will be my go-to shoes from now onwards (I know I've been saying that for most of my shoes, but this time it's for real!)<br />
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Take care & happy running.<br />
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Some other reviews can be found here:<br />
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http://running.competitor.com/2015/02/shoes-and-gear/2015-trail-shoe-year-hoka-one-one-challenger-atr_123344<br />
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http://www.irunfar.com/2015/07/hoka-one-one-challenger-atr-review.html<br />
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<br />
21 Jan 2018<br />
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RIP my good friend ... with my limited running it has taken me nearly 1.5 years to take this shoe to close to 500 miles / 800km.. whilst there is seemingly plenty of outsole left (it is HOKA afterall), the bounce is no longer there, I took it out for a final 10k lap of honour last night - I could feel the weariness of the shoe after so much pavement pounding..<br />
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the upper is finally disintegrating too, I have adamantly hung on to them to a technical trail run few weeks back I rolled my ankle as the upper support was no longer there... but it is REMARKABLE the upper has lasted this long (compared to what I read about later models..)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcheh6rW_Bz1eHQy2XGS1ihL508XkAVR2oln4mvgm4haNpJgnfjU5zfdLTZAGsyh8mWnXx8we7gd5AUng0MSMtmRRSZTesEAa11_8Ptd_2EgFmZbYue7Cg2fL8lGtTPvRqCsC6Np-Iop0/s1600/20180121_230117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcheh6rW_Bz1eHQy2XGS1ihL508XkAVR2oln4mvgm4haNpJgnfjU5zfdLTZAGsyh8mWnXx8we7gd5AUng0MSMtmRRSZTesEAa11_8Ptd_2EgFmZbYue7Cg2fL8lGtTPvRqCsC6Np-Iop0/s400/20180121_230117.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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why you ask..<br />
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coz they were THAT awesome, that's why..<br />
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RIP my good friend - you have served me well.. my only regret is I've never taken you on an ultra journey that you truly deserve.. I hate to say goodbye ~ but wow, what good times eh? :)<br />
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-79667340028772573802016-04-28T23:07:00.000+10:002016-04-29T21:37:04.149+10:00Maroondah Dam Trail Run 30k<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Beautiful medal eh??<br />
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What can I say... I'm glad I signed up for just 30k because I would've perished if it was any further! While Maroondah Dam is a beautiful location, this event is absolutely brutal of a course with all the uphill & downhill cramped into one big ascent & descent. If you're searching for hurt, this is the one!<br />
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Anyway I've been taking it easier with events for the past months as I come full-circle in a way in terms of realising that my body can't keep getting hammered without sufficient time to recover!.. and I feel fortunate to have realise this now before any irreversible injury might have occurred, a few twisted ankles & niggling knee pains are enough reminders..<br />
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I will actually be taking a looong vacation soon from running (and that's for another higher reason altogether).. I nominated Maroondah to be the 'last' event and I feel it has been a good choice not just because I've always wanted to do this course, but I felt it would be challenging enough to allow me to push & leave it all out there on the trails.. as such it would be nice to pick up from there again once its time to do so.... :)<br />
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This year's course is in fact a brand new one, and having run the old course before as part of my preparation my preference is actually this new course.. straight up & down with all the best bits! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out beard-guy's huaraches! Courtesy of Piffles Inc</td></tr>
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It's all about hill-training if you're thinking of doing this event, for me what I lacked in preparation was knowing how well my legs would hold up after more than 5k of steep downhill.. and how fast/slow I should be going to enable a more consistent 15k finishing. The race-mentality I brought with me was 'the first 15k is the one you need to worry about, after that it should be easier!'<br />
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I was clearly wrong about the last part.<br />
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I definitely had insufficient sustained downhill training & whilst I had a great time going fast on the steep downhill from Mt St Leonards, it left my legs with very little once I was back on the flatter sections.. sips of gel + heed kept me going but my legs felt absolutely wrecked. I know better now! Needless to say the last 3 hills near the finishing, small as they are, felt like 3 mountains..<br />
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Here are some fun insight notes I have put together regarding the course!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFu8eeBF0yjGuRETu4s_PfHkI8eBJKpWBL7fLPCTfpZdbgqM-1D7svZ4as3ZP_J6jwsvJ1kMsix46oeANp1-E_PMprwQdldVLLnCyjdtc1r9WuvCwXh_srWbNTq-8PrB1J8GWyb3B54cE/s1600/map1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFu8eeBF0yjGuRETu4s_PfHkI8eBJKpWBL7fLPCTfpZdbgqM-1D7svZ4as3ZP_J6jwsvJ1kMsix46oeANp1-E_PMprwQdldVLLnCyjdtc1r9WuvCwXh_srWbNTq-8PrB1J8GWyb3B54cE/s640/map1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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The small creek crossing in the last 5k was god-sent. The battered legs needed some refreshing & it couldn't have come at a better time. It did give me blisters but that was mainly because I got lazy with taping my toes properly. It would've been nice to have a few more creek-crossings along the way! </div>
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Here's how my last 5k went:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUC8CYVBtPgmPbP8-zMM-gIU75ktqMMn_lSzbdAToR6VeKFKovx0KqmZUDO4Z6bHk6K_vB9hBOseRkoMqFDGd_2iMpskc8h0HN2YNtedJJW_jlvmjLxU7pI02flkuAqzKY94YTVJEdwuI/s1600/map2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUC8CYVBtPgmPbP8-zMM-gIU75ktqMMn_lSzbdAToR6VeKFKovx0KqmZUDO4Z6bHk6K_vB9hBOseRkoMqFDGd_2iMpskc8h0HN2YNtedJJW_jlvmjLxU7pI02flkuAqzKY94YTVJEdwuI/s640/map2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVbrbFdvFmE8JUrwi-k6em3rJPMQibqtsrtcPb93I_zUhnW4kTlWktwJrh-DoVEYXW7Iq0rHz8jJ_TSbfyN_AedtyrWL7XjdhTwe9egaAHutSng1jKM05wjNocgDFYwj0P6eAr597yqQ/s1600/Maroondah+Dam+Trail+Run+2016-220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVbrbFdvFmE8JUrwi-k6em3rJPMQibqtsrtcPb93I_zUhnW4kTlWktwJrh-DoVEYXW7Iq0rHz8jJ_TSbfyN_AedtyrWL7XjdhTwe9egaAHutSng1jKM05wjNocgDFYwj0P6eAr597yqQ/s640/Maroondah+Dam+Trail+Run+2016-220.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last 5k.. in a world of hurt! Courtesy of Trailsplus</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIK6f-WHl2rH7yDNTaHobd4DssQokLgOLAKn8278mKMNSbhdU7gMlis_hXyFokFye_gn573_bJd3vmifI38LLwlwi0KbgM8eLQp3n3p9I5jd7X_IFSzTg7vdtF9vKk9-p8ffhhuR510ZE/s1600/MD2016StartFinish1505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIK6f-WHl2rH7yDNTaHobd4DssQokLgOLAKn8278mKMNSbhdU7gMlis_hXyFokFye_gn573_bJd3vmifI38LLwlwi0KbgM8eLQp3n3p9I5jd7X_IFSzTg7vdtF9vKk9-p8ffhhuR510ZE/s640/MD2016StartFinish1505.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I did do a more inspiring jumping shot across the finish! Courtesy of Trailsplus</td></tr>
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All in all, I would highly recommend this event to anyone searching for a challenging course.. we were fortunate to have beautiful weather this year, the course would be a different beast if there was rain! Should think about poles if it ever does rain..<br />
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Hey its a brief entry but thanks for reading folks, its been a blast! happy running! See you on the trails soon.</div>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-87169282699171694172016-02-21T11:21:00.001+11:002016-07-21T20:24:13.163+10:00Running Shoe Lacing Techniques<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hmm.. maybe I can cut the laces off my narrow Salomons & try some of these.. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5boftoIOWfgQvl-wsoaSIj9p2uwys1YXeEUKAUMzNbB_5CfbYrzE8eR1-I2OgEnowf4ut-XDE1KMOHy7mwDCswkGVrq2mNLsjNDC7s9FwgKF2uc9myqMM0dW44T-yXS2RcHjlkJuijY/s1600/12744647_1674769372776256_5742383176800535286_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5boftoIOWfgQvl-wsoaSIj9p2uwys1YXeEUKAUMzNbB_5CfbYrzE8eR1-I2OgEnowf4ut-XDE1KMOHy7mwDCswkGVrq2mNLsjNDC7s9FwgKF2uc9myqMM0dW44T-yXS2RcHjlkJuijY/s640/12744647_1674769372776256_5742383176800535286_n.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-39552275237891977682015-11-08T09:12:00.000+11:002015-11-08T09:12:10.393+11:00Knee Injury? Read this<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/health/preventing-knee-injury">http://www.runnersworld.com/health/preventing-knee-injury</a><br />
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Some useful excerpts:<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">High arches and low ones. Bow legs and knock knees. Too little strengthening. Too little </span><a class="vglnk" href="http://www.runnersworld.com/tag/stretching" rel="nofollow" style="color: #00aeef; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">stretching</a><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">. Too many miles. Too many hills. And those are just the major culprits. </span></i><br />
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<i>The best way to protect your knees is with daily stretching and strengthening exercises, and the easiest way to stick to your daily program is to do the exercises at home without any special equipment. Here we show the two best, simplest home exercises to keep your knees in top shape.</i></div>
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<i><b>ITB Stretch</b><br />Stand with one leg in front of and crossed over the other leg. Exhale, and bend your body to the same side as your front leg. Hold for a count of 20, straighten up, then repeat the bend nine more times. Reverse leg positions, and repeat 10 times in the other direction.<br /><br /><b>Quadriceps Strengthener</b><br />With your feet side-by-side, extend both arms forward, and slowly lower yourself into a half-squat, stopping before your legs are parallel to the ground. Keep your back straight. Repeat 20 times.<br />Adapted from The Knee Crisis Handbook,<br />--Brian Halpern, M.D. </i></div>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-69964739983984659542015-06-14T12:43:00.001+10:002015-06-14T12:50:46.888+10:00Compressport Trail Running Shorts - Product Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
OK straight up. I wear these without underwear.<br />
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I mean I tried them with, of course. But it was just uncomfortable like hell for my jewels I had to go commando.. anyway more on fitting later! :P<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_mTt7GhWFCNDiCtVhPRbECUhCatPXLV8fmrbRnGk0JN59WnxHYymhEnBnC7DXLgDcVUBvhbIbF97dEqMSluIKAyiDwfBSobUzUEoVG86aznQLBfDhCI7slEQof4VAM5CTU2Vxxo8hPec/s1600/trail-shorts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_mTt7GhWFCNDiCtVhPRbECUhCatPXLV8fmrbRnGk0JN59WnxHYymhEnBnC7DXLgDcVUBvhbIbF97dEqMSluIKAyiDwfBSobUzUEoVG86aznQLBfDhCI7slEQof4VAM5CTU2Vxxo8hPec/s640/trail-shorts.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So the above is what Compressport is selling on their product description. I'm generally happy with the compression I'm getting (a quality product no doubt) & as always I'll just focus on the things I feel can be improved:<br />
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<b>Silicon Grip (3d grip)</b> - to be honest they don't work as intended for me.. in case you've not seen the shorts up close this is 9cm of rather flappy waist band material that has some silicon grip on them meant to go round your belly area & 'keep your back & body straight'... unfortunately I'm just your average joe trail runner & have a bit of gut + love-handles that essentially overpowers this flappy band & they end up rolled down after about 500m into any run.. (sad I know!) - check out the pic below.. I have shamelessly circled out my love handles popping out.. :D<br />
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I would recommend for Compressport to consider making this band with thicker material that will hold its shape a bit better. And I really don't feel it has helped kept my back & body straight? Its too soft to provide any form of support to be honest...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGpINaCJO-lUk1luZLfefPr1wYi2DH34BPh-orxvtXvyC-nnzdsHcvUQHVH9hNN-OQzuVBgAhcmGeOiqdMRK6n2gFhcccz8W6gqurryWvb9TM3n4rGs2HXf0mc8mkzWd9ZhIdBZDNSrk/s1600/trail-shorts2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGpINaCJO-lUk1luZLfefPr1wYi2DH34BPh-orxvtXvyC-nnzdsHcvUQHVH9hNN-OQzuVBgAhcmGeOiqdMRK6n2gFhcccz8W6gqurryWvb9TM3n4rGs2HXf0mc8mkzWd9ZhIdBZDNSrk/s640/trail-shorts2.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See how sad I look.. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx10ND6ijTdSs55-HHaPSjW8o5sH39MU_QwOnWaI6puL-zKL__uVNQNF5hacaOCttvlKr6a4PtGrXQV0Yv-jWT4V7rHEOZdKIT1gy2G2mz1fCfeYFuLyWYvAsLwy5Dr0NsY-lfTQzRECs/s1600/P1050337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx10ND6ijTdSs55-HHaPSjW8o5sH39MU_QwOnWaI6puL-zKL__uVNQNF5hacaOCttvlKr6a4PtGrXQV0Yv-jWT4V7rHEOZdKIT1gy2G2mz1fCfeYFuLyWYvAsLwy5Dr0NsY-lfTQzRECs/s640/P1050337.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up of thin flappy waist band material</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuM4jMo6utsklIsp1VV-KUQpEBzZQEcOR8kPvxZCJKQSHJUezWLQOpKOEBZvLSpbpLz2u-7aRCQLfVrszecepx_eP2y9t_gtUFhzs7b3HlasuN1R_WolDozi_l_8yxwlmGl4vSjbwsjWk/s1600/P1050339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuM4jMo6utsklIsp1VV-KUQpEBzZQEcOR8kPvxZCJKQSHJUezWLQOpKOEBZvLSpbpLz2u-7aRCQLfVrszecepx_eP2y9t_gtUFhzs7b3HlasuN1R_WolDozi_l_8yxwlmGl4vSjbwsjWk/s640/P1050339.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up of the seam that joins the flappy waist band to the rest of shorts.. <br />
thanks to my waistline I do feel these seams & I always put lubricant to ensure no chafing takes place </td></tr>
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<b>Powerclimb Silincongrip </b>- ie. the silicon rings that helps sweaty hands grip better during power-climbs.. <u>works a treat </u>but I would say it would be ideal if there was more of these in the mid-section of the quads + more to the side as well per picture below.. I find that when I power-hike I'm pushing more in the mid-section of the quad (maybe I have short arms) & during occassions where I do end-up pushing closer to the knees (eg. steeper climbs) my fingers would be wrapping around the sides as well.. not just on top of knees<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEmd5eILEsTxfy3i_SueycLzeGHNpBQCEsTQaLmBm2biuQpUIwfW2Ji4OENXjWhbpryLOxJwBuQ7Dz6ULMFs3x58Z6WqzR0Qeh68nS1ggYB5Qidw_ALEemINIRapbbLrI9fYh6I2k-2c/s1600/P1050340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEmd5eILEsTxfy3i_SueycLzeGHNpBQCEsTQaLmBm2biuQpUIwfW2Ji4OENXjWhbpryLOxJwBuQ7Dz6ULMFs3x58Z6WqzR0Qeh68nS1ggYB5Qidw_ALEemINIRapbbLrI9fYh6I2k-2c/s640/P1050340.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More rings on the mid-section + sides would be ideal for me.. </td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrN18O_ll4xXzCPDIvau3sNiYRmYpY7mWnlmrdDyDZ-1NWWbSy3yDOB5y4DnSafjq8CuVY-Bqqg__-dUtWFpaK4cWhkd7lMN3Q0eto0gDxbtas5XnOsmA0mGpJMI2JyklD9-aNL1w_zA/s1600/01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrN18O_ll4xXzCPDIvau3sNiYRmYpY7mWnlmrdDyDZ-1NWWbSy3yDOB5y4DnSafjq8CuVY-Bqqg__-dUtWFpaK4cWhkd7lMN3Q0eto0gDxbtas5XnOsmA0mGpJMI2JyklD9-aNL1w_zA/s640/01.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Referencing Emelie as my model..</td></tr>
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<b>Flat-Lock Seams </b>- just a quick comment on the seams.. these 'solid & discreet' seams are marketed to 'avoid any chafing', my advice is still to put plenty of lubricant at chafe hotspots regardless.. that's all. But to be fair I only do feel the top seams joining up the waist-band thanks to my waistline, nothing else.<br />
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<b>Fitting </b>- you do need to pull these things up & tuck them into corners of your hip, butt & quads.. especially if you've got quite a big butt like me. The shorts do tend to drop a little bit when I start running & the edges run into my knees.. but after a few good tugs (careful not to rip them) they do tend to settle in & you're on the home-run. I do wear them commando style mainly because the compression is extremely good & adding on another layer of cloth ie undies, it does feel very uncomfortable for my jewels & also it helps keep that sensitive region well-ventilated at all times! ie. less chafing. It does come down to the particular shape of your anatomy vs the compression curves of the trail shorts.. so you'll need to buy & try & see how it works best for your particular shape.<br />
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If you're shy & worried about too much groin popping out, the material around the groin region does seem thicker than lets say the Compressport trail underwear's... besides you can always wear your bib over it or like me, ensure your top provides sufficient cover!<br />
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<b>What I do love</b> - & i'm pretty sure you will too, the compression of course (especially tight on the front quads), thermo-regulation/wicking ability & it is ultralight... running long distance there's nothing more pleasant than running light & naked... these shorts will help achieve that for sure :D<br />
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Hope this review helps! Thanks for reading!<br />
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-16984417623633169312015-04-19T17:25:00.000+10:002015-04-25T23:20:52.253+10:00Buffalo Stampede 2015 - Gored, Gutted.. & Survived<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bring it on, you Buffalo! Photo credit: Aurora Images</td></tr>
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I feel all the good vibes again looking at this picture :) Positivity, pride, happiness, and a real sense of achievement... I'm extremely glad I could relinquish the demons from last year (though to be honest its long faded ~ its not like I have nightmares every night!) & just make good a promise I made to myself a year ago.<br />
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There is also a little glimpse into the possibilities as well.. the body & mind was actually feeling extremely good towards the end ~ I felt like I could have gone beyond the 75k and take on even more if it had to! (Or maybe I was just ridiculously over caffeinated!)<br />
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I also got to know my gut a bit better - that it is a sensitive beast.. and it will turn into the incredible hulk regardless after 50k!! And it's great I also know what it needs to calm back down..<br />
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Mentally I was fully ready to complete the Stampede. I made up my mind very early on that unless I was physically broken, I would wrap it up one way or another. I was a bit apprehensive in the last few weeks before Buffalo because my training was less than ideal, but other than that it was as if the 75k was already completed in the head, and the physical body simply needed to catch up!<br />
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What made it even easier was having the great company of like-minded folks (Jamie, Gavin & Grace) for the final 25k. Gavin told me he was going to finish even if it took him longer than 17 hours, Jamie was suffering big time with gut & feet issues (that made my last year's suffering laughable) decided he just wanted to finish (he came all the way from Sydney!).. and Grace, who was just after some company to tackle the darkness was steady & strong which helped.. four of us got together at Bucklands aid station & were happy to complete the run together. <br />
<br />
On hindsight, having their company was actually fantastic not only because we could look out for each other tackling the steep hills in the dark, we could bounce off words of encouragement & do fist pumps & crack jokes & share salt-tablets etc.. naturally we can't always plan to have company to help get through the tough bits in an ultra (& even if you do get company who's to say they will be good/positive company?? they may turn into werewolves!!) - but just saying there's no harm embracing it because the company WILL help. <br />
<br />
OK let me get down & dirty into it section by section:<br />
<br />
<b><u>Race prep</u></b><br />
<br />
Wasn't the most ideal preparation but decided I would make up with rest with sheer will power! I was happy with the amount of hill-climbs I've done, but not too happy with the endurance training..<br />
<br />
Working against last year's lessons - I learnt how to tape my entire feet properly to avoid blisters (for me a game changer), single layer top for temp regulation, and stuck with the good fitting & soft-soled Karrimor shoes.. not the ideal shoes in terms of quality but as long as it was fit for race-day it'll have to do. Last few days before Buffalo I felt very relaxed & slept well - which always helps.<br />
<br />
<b><u>General race plan</u></b><br />
<br />
Use last year's timings as a guide, take it easier on first 2 climbs, aim for first 52k & then keep moving! Minimal solid foods & get ready to tackle gut issue! Hug wife at aid stations! Finish the damn run within cut-off!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFP8h9NlXDZ3SmrqG-dJAX2UqOwvIpFAPOE78jeqdWPGZkxXB48ldmPRtw_c5lXmD9I6p1yX0PeeILj2WR5y-HwpW3r2vmBDDCvKl6nExWykbsMUj8xv09U1SYlnAOc935z-us02yvCM/s1600/1-start3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFP8h9NlXDZ3SmrqG-dJAX2UqOwvIpFAPOE78jeqdWPGZkxXB48ldmPRtw_c5lXmD9I6p1yX0PeeILj2WR5y-HwpW3r2vmBDDCvKl6nExWykbsMUj8xv09U1SYlnAOc935z-us02yvCM/s1600/1-start3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty color-coordinated bunch aren't we? Grey, Blue, Red.. <span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Photo credit: Aurora Images</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Start - Mystic - Bakers Gully</u></b><br />
<br />
The climb up to Mystic felt longer than last year's, the route also felt a bit different from memory (it seemed to snake in & out the direct fire-trail climb a bit more?).. the body was moving OK, however wasn't expecting to use as much energy as I did ~ made mental note to self to reserve bit more for the 1st climb to Mystic next time (if there's a next time). Bumped into Kevin at the top of Mystic & he confirmed the route is indeed different this year! Aha! I wasn't imagining things after all.. picked up some pace descending towards Mick's track.<br />
<br />
Mick's track was more powdery & dry compared to last year's muckiness. So it felt easier for traction but required a fair amount of bum-sliding moments as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUG08LbZZO_LoMOcnv5oBCLwXLT7aOnxSY1iNkJFUyu5HiL8gwlfRJhof00pQ1fufPmpUkbI-dcxs1SlNj5n8glWFyygnTsJ4JuygHHkjKTZ7X4wp-Y_6DspIH_JUspbyX567OTy0AX0/s1600/4-micks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUG08LbZZO_LoMOcnv5oBCLwXLT7aOnxSY1iNkJFUyu5HiL8gwlfRJhof00pQ1fufPmpUkbI-dcxs1SlNj5n8glWFyygnTsJ4JuygHHkjKTZ7X4wp-Y_6DspIH_JUspbyX567OTy0AX0/s1600/4-micks.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mick's Track in its full glory</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Clearspot - Eurobin (25k - 4h 06min)</u></b><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-HbHOig5sRjL3RLhhNO_cnc-Rb6WZPv9xDi1M7UaWLfMqSdWu2DDI1I5Jm9bZewr3aNfRK_bckW9srxEGAdEJgfy0H_36brsPveC4n_ShAeQ0gxyh-5j6STbHmA4gCtHfYuLlS90IaVw/s1600/2-bakers+gully.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-HbHOig5sRjL3RLhhNO_cnc-Rb6WZPv9xDi1M7UaWLfMqSdWu2DDI1I5Jm9bZewr3aNfRK_bckW9srxEGAdEJgfy0H_36brsPveC4n_ShAeQ0gxyh-5j6STbHmA4gCtHfYuLlS90IaVw/s1600/2-bakers+gully.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Photo credit: Aurora Images</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Didn't linger at BG & went straight to tackle the big bad Clearspot. Everyone was going up around the same pace & as expected, the climb was relentless but manageable. The legs (& poles) were ready for it.. no mental surprises.. made it up in one piece (didn't really check the time). All was good.. <br />
<br />
Didn't linger at Clearspot either & started the long descent to Bucklands. The view was not as spectacular as last year's so wasn't really distracted. Nearly rolled my ankle over a small rock & had to double-focus on the trail I was running on. Kept reminding myself to focus, because if there was one section where my ankle would buckle again, this would be it! Focus Bin Focus!!<br />
<br />
Caught up with Gavin. Ran with him for a bit & then went ahead.. by the end of the long descent & into the roads towards Bucklands, the quads started to pinch just a wee bit.. signs of early cramps (that was quick!). Started sipping more tailwind to up the salt.. stay with me Quads!<br />
<br />
The view as we approached Bucklands aid station is as breathtaking as I remembered it. Thought to myself this would be where I'd station if I was event photographer! Marched on gingerly on that thought..<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNuD48dUlYFXEDTVa8vPVlhDYXzixugysTkvGu2CvzkeWoV7SbBW7TUDopL_QOpY1IEmvFgo8Vm7k5z41z3x5-Jp2u5peL8rRUi-2W6BVbiZEXNzcXIgUn6yBoC1yJn78ABieZUAS9Rs/s1600/5-bucklands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNuD48dUlYFXEDTVa8vPVlhDYXzixugysTkvGu2CvzkeWoV7SbBW7TUDopL_QOpY1IEmvFgo8Vm7k5z41z3x5-Jp2u5peL8rRUi-2W6BVbiZEXNzcXIgUn6yBoC1yJn78ABieZUAS9Rs/s1600/5-bucklands.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ain't she a beauty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
High-fived all the kiddies, the wife & SCTR crazies as I approached the aid station, was truly great to see them!.. I was feeling great & didn't linger long at the aid station. Took in some chips & moved on. Mind was pretty set on getting to Eurobin at this stage..<br />
<br />
Power hiked over Keating Ridge with a couple who were seasoned runners from Sydney. They were moving great but had concerns over cut-off & overall strategy being newbies.. shared as much as I could. Before long, we were trudging along the road towards Eurobin.. reach around the same time as last year (4:06)<br />
<br />
<b><u>Big Walk - Chalet (35k - 6h 42min)</u></b><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gArmmlbak9-t843IKjX5EEPs4Vs0tkUbB3QktJuLk8AStvIYyXBcy_Vk0kSeHi72CdEQlx0V4fq8xz3jq0kyw5Vo2jApeW3FSeqQD0_wDJ-0ne3LMWuTbNQE6VrjFBsS0PzRuOYNJo4/s1600/6-eurobine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gArmmlbak9-t843IKjX5EEPs4Vs0tkUbB3QktJuLk8AStvIYyXBcy_Vk0kSeHi72CdEQlx0V4fq8xz3jq0kyw5Vo2jApeW3FSeqQD0_wDJ-0ne3LMWuTbNQE6VrjFBsS0PzRuOYNJo4/s1600/6-eurobine.jpg" height="400" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2014 vs 2015</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a quick 5-7min, I was out of Eurobin. No solid food of course. I had taken in just more chips & salt tablet to prevent the cramps..tightness on the front quad was getting more apparent. Wondered whether it was due to compression trail shorts I was wearing which had particular squeeze on the front quads.. anyway couldn't possibly run without shorts so had to start the Big Walk climb regardless.. <br />
<br />
Did a big section of Big Walk with another runner Gareth (I think) - had a good chat about everything under the sun with him, which helped keep the mind distracted. A long slow trudge & I didn't push too hard as I'm mindful about pacing myself. Shortly after reaching the flatter part I broke away from Gareth.. the legs were happier on the flats & moved into Chalet feeling good.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Chalet - Galleries - Chalet (42k - 8h 16min)</u></b><br />
<br />
The gut wasn't too happy with Tailwind during the climb.. and was slowly turning against powergels too. Changed Tailwind to Heed & needed to sip more water to calm the unhappy gut.<br />
<br />
The wifey said to lose the poles going into the Galleries loop coz there was going to be rabbit holes to crawl through etc. I did so without hesitating.. a mistake upon hindsight, this is a difficult 7k & there were still several ups & downs that needed tackling.. had to just put hand on quads & push.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw0HBGB8nfUW_7FaAT-XQcmLMf2yr-FzoJ5GV6vzX06UjdAuM2ocJ0zK6DBkvP1U0JY_7IPFBJRmQsGKJGz10ktcNGZ1K5fC5GnY7jx_Rt17tgIsHnDJMjLEPdOVyQOormWmqfht_YZqQ/s1600/7-gallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw0HBGB8nfUW_7FaAT-XQcmLMf2yr-FzoJ5GV6vzX06UjdAuM2ocJ0zK6DBkvP1U0JY_7IPFBJRmQsGKJGz10ktcNGZ1K5fC5GnY7jx_Rt17tgIsHnDJMjLEPdOVyQOormWmqfht_YZqQ/s1600/7-gallery.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rabbit hole.. nice & cooling</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As expected, 7k took me 1.5 hours to complete.. bumped into the Siqi & Anthony and had brief exchanges.. Siqi didn't look too flush (cramps) but Anthony was looking fresh ("but I feel so tireeeed").<br />
<br />
The rabbit hole was a nice change. I was alone this time (last year there was a queue!) & the rocks were nice & cool it was tempting to just sit there & relax.<br />
<br />
As soon as I cleared the 2nd rabbit hole, congratulated myself for that's the half-way mark! Yippee!<br />
<br />
Pulling into Chalet, cowbells were music to the ears, (I think) Gareth came to cheer me on but couldn't recognise him.. I believe he had decided to pull out & had changed out of his running gear.. oh well, cheers buddy!<br />
<br />
Hugged wife, took pictures, stretched quads, took on-board more Heed, more water and many more salt tablets.. I knew these were going be the 3x crucial ingredients for the rest of the journey. Left Chalet on a high & forgot poles.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Big Walk - Eurobin (52k - 9h 56min) </u></b><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZ4zobFMnkvNYcA2hpbkv7UyzvOYvxJmunukVBCAlkDgC0r0rJ5xI2NXxIDIUDazwUgkk-hwzpRUPxudu4MYKkOgd3mtz1P7_oMDy2NgPONjc5akQjE-ctpseCc8YdWpodwofSiy3ZXY/s1600/9-eurobin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZ4zobFMnkvNYcA2hpbkv7UyzvOYvxJmunukVBCAlkDgC0r0rJ5xI2NXxIDIUDazwUgkk-hwzpRUPxudu4MYKkOgd3mtz1P7_oMDy2NgPONjc5akQjE-ctpseCc8YdWpodwofSiy3ZXY/s1600/9-eurobin.jpg" height="320" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: Wife</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Messaged wife "Poles Eurobin" shortly after leaving Chalet - thank goodness it was downhill for next 10k. Didn't go thrashing the quads like last year as on a few occasions they were threatening to cramp. Had to go easy.. 1 or 2 runners overtook me. Energy level waning. Pretty much a lonely section. Pulled in at around same time as last year.<br />
<br />
Decided to spend a bit more time at aid station to get things right before setting off. Changed top, changed head-wear, Heed, many more salt tablets, water, ate some fruits, chips, grabbed POLES.<br />
<br />
Saw few more runners pull in inc Vanessa & everyone looking/feeling positive on finishing within cut-off. "Its only 25k, how many 25ks have you done?" Vanessa's words of wisdom as she left the aid station.. pretty much a 'just keep moving' plan from this point onwards.<br />
<br />
7 hours for 25k - sounds ridiculously generous. But was it really?<br />
<br />
<u><b>Eurobin - Bucklands (61k - 11h 47min)</b></u><br />
<br />
Shortly after starting the climb up Keating Ridge, new friend Jamie caught up with me.. he was looking in fine power-hiking form. I was surprised when he suggested whether I wanted to complete together as he was faster - it was getting dark & he wasn't in best of form in actual fact - threw up 5x times up Big Walk & his feet was hurting going downhill.. 5x times!! Jamie was surviving on watermelons & coke. I complimented him on his determination & decided it will be fine to stick together.<br />
<br />
Several occasions he had asked me to run ahead if I wanted to (esp downhill) but I knew he was in pain, so we stuck together. He had suggested if we power-hiked the whole way back we could make it just fine. I had no timing target & decided to just take it easy & enjoy the rest of the journey as best possible! Just 3 more hills...<br />
<br />
Breaching the 56k mark halfway up Keating Ridge, it was a new personal record for me. From that point onwards I was breaking new grounds. Secretly very proud (couldn't possibly hug Jamie). Before long Keating Ridge was done. 1 hill down.<br />
<br />
The sun was gone for the day as we left Keating Ridge & pulled into Bucklands. We were also joined by Gavin & Grace. I think everyone could have slow-jogged intermittently but was happy to power-hike for a bit together & rest the legs. Cut-off was the only thing on everyone's mind & Jamie was reassuring us that we'll be fine. Everyone knew we had 2 big climbs coming & in the physical state we were in, it was perhaps best to stick together & support each other in case of anything.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjW7UTFtMsntgmizBD0pUQgWwYp6H1IUz5iWbN71BCsj9BYBcoiDTh26BCeNVA0AVnuJdGfUL98ZijKx7zxDKVGgHhs7rqAh85RM84YhjVxrO5nUcpoUDYJOQJ4InVVZSn4dG5AvLVAQ/s1600/IMG_4981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjW7UTFtMsntgmizBD0pUQgWwYp6H1IUz5iWbN71BCsj9BYBcoiDTh26BCeNVA0AVnuJdGfUL98ZijKx7zxDKVGgHhs7rqAh85RM84YhjVxrO5nUcpoUDYJOQJ4InVVZSn4dG5AvLVAQ/s1600/IMG_4981.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bucklands night fruit market! Photo credit: Piffles Inc</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Bucklands - Bakers Gully (72k - 14h 42min)</u></b><br />
<br />
Kissed the wife & left Bucklands after a short spell. Phoenix gave me & Gavin glow rings 'so that we can see you coming' bless that girl. We stuck together as we power-hiked our way to Clearspot. It was quite a long hike.. from a distance we could see Warners Wall - head-lamps flickering & all.. the body was tempted to jog but on hindsight it was best to save legs for the climb. Besides, Warners Wall was just a first section & its actually a very gentle slope that slowly gets steeper & steeper. The hidden 2nd section doesn't get seen until Warners Wall is cleared. Gavin had some trouble with his poles & was cursing in the silent of the evening..<br />
<br />
And so the climb ensued. Heavy-breathing. Head-lamps shining directly onto a wall of dirt. Dust everywhere. Pushing hard with poles with small but consistent steps. Many short stops to catch breadth. Could hardly talk. Losing voice & could mainly speak softly when chatting to Gavin.<br />
<br />
Gulps of Heed. Salt tablets. Small portion of gel. Every 20mins or so.<br />
<br />
Funny moment when Gavin's phone suddenly rang while we were deep into the climb. It was Sophie.. she heard someone called Gavin who was with someone called Jamie had suffered cramps & needed medical attention. Gavin spoke between breaths explaining it wasn't us & he was fine & healthy & halfway tackling the big bad Clearspot with Bin.. :) what are the chances of such coincidence of names eh?<br />
<br />
Warners Wall was utterly sapping. Hats off to last year's runners having to tackle this wall filled with mud! But if there was one section that drained me completely its the last 2k before summit of Clearspot.. in the darkness as we chugged on I remember seeing some lights at the top of hill & thought to myself 'that can't possibly be Clearspot.. that's too high up' ... but of course it turned out to be exactly that... & for the first time the mental determination was truly shaken.<br />
<br />
This last 2k wasn't as gnarly as Warners, but at that point I was really struggling to find energy. Heed helped. Mouth & body didn't welcome anything else. Gut was gurgling everytime I ate gel. Burped a lot... relied heavily on the poles & moving very very slow.<br />
<br />
Baby steps after baby steps, Clearspot was finally conquered. The other 3 were resting at the picnic table when I finally caught up with them. Jamie had his head down, Gavin & Grace seem to be holding up well. I sat down & could only stare blankly at the lights of Bright some distance away. A beautiful sight but could hardly muster enough energy to appreciate it. Wished I had at least snapped a selfie with the gang & the lights. But the thought hardly crossed my mind.<br />
<br />
Jamie was getting cold & urged us to move on. We tackled the long downhill & nearly took wrong turns.. twice. Told Gavin this must've been where Siqi got lost last year. Anthony had went the wrong way in fact & did extra 2k (good thing he found his way again). <br />
<br />
Seeing the camp-fire at Bakers Gully was invigorating. The vollies were cheerful & helpful - before long everyone had their energy restored & was pumped to get going again. 2 hills down. 1 last one to go!! We were all in a good head-space at that moment.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0ZI5yZTanNu37VO5Qg03LjORC91BrAr0Nyx2IwJElMvwgy9ZX8zJLae0D39zZVraZwywDTy5ueP_9c_S_XOPJQTQgGhcxT76Fdy-sQcB0nE_5OEWlikx-S6-3QvHf_e-yXJ1Q7dLvgc/s1600/11-bakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0ZI5yZTanNu37VO5Qg03LjORC91BrAr0Nyx2IwJElMvwgy9ZX8zJLae0D39zZVraZwywDTy5ueP_9c_S_XOPJQTQgGhcxT76Fdy-sQcB0nE_5OEWlikx-S6-3QvHf_e-yXJ1Q7dLvgc/s1600/11-bakers.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bakers Gully.. t<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">oo tired to eat watermelon normally.</span><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"> Photo credit: Kathy Swinkels</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b><u>Bakers Gully - End (16h 35min)</u></b><br />
<br />
As we left for Mystic, Grace remarked that whilst there are no man-eating animals in Oz it was good to have tackled the darkness in a group, Jamie & Gavin then mentioned wild boars are still able to make a mess on us & as if on cue.. sudden big movement in the bushes next to us.. :)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
I felt happier going up Mystic. Still slow of course but had more energy & legs felt better. Had to let out a primal yell of joy when I finally cleared Mystic... waited for Gavin to tackle the downhill together. Before long we caught up with Grace & her husband & some other runners, we went zig-zagging down Mystic & it was very dusty. My head-lamp wasn't the strongest & it was hard to see & breathe with so much dust kicking up as we went downhill (I should add that back in the Inn after the run, clearing my snots they were actually brown with dust!!). I fell twice, fortunately took on no injuries.<br />
<br />
Reaching the flats, Jamie & I were in front and we power-hiked the final 3k with hope that Gavin & Grace would catch up. And caught up they did in the final 1k.. spirits were high as we made our way past sleeping/snoring campers along Morse Creek...<br />
<br />
And in the last 100m it was hard to hide a smile, we formed a line & jogged our way to the finishing..<br />
<br />
Hugging the wife & thanking the SCTR supporters & heart-felt congratulations & showing of appreciation for Jamie, Gavin & Grace it was raw TRAIL LOVE at its very core.. and easily the biggest moment in my trail running 'career'. :))<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWSko7f0tnH5VGGbv3R1sBpWS_94Wos_ImDoIJ4zyxWCISNL58l5L-5pfnvOtFrM6tMxeU6tByL0U6acAPvh_XjK52SALkXQaPmRILFRxAMgqf3lse0MhThXr-ARpS7jrj2cvuXKilFZ8/s1600/IMAG9502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWSko7f0tnH5VGGbv3R1sBpWS_94Wos_ImDoIJ4zyxWCISNL58l5L-5pfnvOtFrM6tMxeU6tByL0U6acAPvh_XjK52SALkXQaPmRILFRxAMgqf3lse0MhThXr-ARpS7jrj2cvuXKilFZ8/s1600/IMAG9502.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Defining moment.. with Gavin, Jamie & Grace. Photo credit: Wife</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfaixmTjfnLfzTqFMHFwjQ1Rwwi24T_PHqs8SZ9uqGbt5f_ejOKE8jc1XGqWQD7m5COr_1H17yJINybfvvBARc2_LZBtI02WS59TfTr16rN5qFATKlzjpLHUMHyVRupXweHzysYCkmIe4/s1600/medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfaixmTjfnLfzTqFMHFwjQ1Rwwi24T_PHqs8SZ9uqGbt5f_ejOKE8jc1XGqWQD7m5COr_1H17yJINybfvvBARc2_LZBtI02WS59TfTr16rN5qFATKlzjpLHUMHyVRupXweHzysYCkmIe4/s1600/medal.jpg" height="382" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">75.5km with 4,545m elevation gain.. JOB DONE. Time to retire!</td></tr>
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Now that the biggest race in the whole wide world is over for me.. I'm not rushing to commit to another event just yet. Going to be picky with my events & get back to just enjoying the trails.. perhaps try out rogaining & get some camping done?? :)<br />
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Hope the race report on Buffalo Stampede 2015 has been informative for those keen to take on next year's event. Thanks for reading folks! Happy running!<br />
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A collection of our beautiful faces for memory lane... :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheeeeese</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nfRkLw6_D-ZbE0LONo6DUZOatItf2IzzSG1DkvlsqC7gYnWKMjXydDhVT_phhuBgMAXnJBVmN4uCIdweo-zXQzP2On_dDM2vurear0yxsWYuknX0gD_GqLDyFc7H0DyGxZAV3DqpYRo/s1600/10828123_1180230632003277_6573552412576503725_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nfRkLw6_D-ZbE0LONo6DUZOatItf2IzzSG1DkvlsqC7gYnWKMjXydDhVT_phhuBgMAXnJBVmN4uCIdweo-zXQzP2On_dDM2vurear0yxsWYuknX0gD_GqLDyFc7H0DyGxZAV3DqpYRo/s1600/10828123_1180230632003277_6573552412576503725_o.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High-fiving the ever-awesome Kirsten! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvsz6sD4cGJgVZgHeF2cLQTA06jlzv-QCe71E7ldd29OvQVFJHfRkNpvKeUUA6kq6959H6oUZauIUsvEKfg70-k44-Q6yhvLCTVk3nIsPYF5zeByiBO5xWPTpryhUngJDS1XylQzS6he4/s1600/12-donee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvsz6sD4cGJgVZgHeF2cLQTA06jlzv-QCe71E7ldd29OvQVFJHfRkNpvKeUUA6kq6959H6oUZauIUsvEKfg70-k44-Q6yhvLCTVk3nIsPYF5zeByiBO5xWPTpryhUngJDS1XylQzS6he4/s1600/12-donee.jpg" height="443" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The super-moms & super crew.. without whom the hubbies are nothing!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_DrEQCKtHiJpnBoMT67yqN8TcYzHnxkmk1e5Et1qatutA8gJCAZniJM06CPZjEjyCAdojVZynwHp9jgpiiu9orMt23G97cf627hQdIrOMsiCl93fEmkk-zfNQmI7v0yPyZc90042AYc/s1600/13-group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_DrEQCKtHiJpnBoMT67yqN8TcYzHnxkmk1e5Et1qatutA8gJCAZniJM06CPZjEjyCAdojVZynwHp9jgpiiu9orMt23G97cf627hQdIrOMsiCl93fEmkk-zfNQmI7v0yPyZc90042AYc/s1600/13-group.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Superman Tim!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1XTkvVP-5yQJtENoqaf3Xzlu5VqVJqVY6po4fPVinIaIaadzt441V1DRNaT-qhmDYomYIOqsL7YdMnjIk1ljfTTA8O5wgPriFTV09Nfbalyt4-RUaYbKwpAFdlf6EFMe1p809b80-88/s1600/14-group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1XTkvVP-5yQJtENoqaf3Xzlu5VqVJqVY6po4fPVinIaIaadzt441V1DRNaT-qhmDYomYIOqsL7YdMnjIk1ljfTTA8O5wgPriFTV09Nfbalyt4-RUaYbKwpAFdlf6EFMe1p809b80-88/s1600/14-group.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up up & away! (Anthony looks like he's strangling himself :D)</td></tr>
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Here's a quick link to my <a href="http://here%27s%20a%20quick%20link%20to%20my%202014%20buffalo%20dnf%20experience../" target="_blank">2014 Buffalo DNF</a> experience.. </div>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-87704646288258934092015-02-16T11:45:00.003+11:002015-03-09T11:10:54.953+11:00Heel-Toe Drop - It Matters.. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Yes.. the whole heel-toe drop thing has landed on my door-step. <br />
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Can't afford to ignore the topic given I have suffered two incidents of ankle sprains in the past 4 months. The last one I'm in the midst of nursing!<br />
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I put the blame on my own ignorance & over-confidence in the strength of my ankles & joints which I had previously thought were indestructible. Turns out they weren't!<br />
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I have been training in the Salomon XT Hornet in technical terrains because that's what this shoe is built for right? Sure, to a certain extent. The reality is - it's only half the story. While it is built like a tank, the mid & outsole are actually pretty stiff.. while this is great for durability, it also means it doesn't quite mold to the terrain much. Add the 10.5mm heel-toe drop, your heels end up pretty high off the ground & you're really putting strain on your ankles in compensating for the lack of stability in such technical terrains. Imagine cruising downhill, you'll effectively be increasing the heel-toe drop with the incline, throw in a random small rock along the path... lets just say you had better have ankles of steel. That was basically how I sprained my ankle on both occasions..double ouches.<br />
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So I learnt the hard way why shoe drops are important considerations for trail-runners. As well as checking how stiff the soles are (& how long they stay that way). I have scoured the internet since to read up & understand more about drops - so far an article in irunfar.com sums it up pretty neatly in this article, thought I'd share it here... so read up & be knowledged!<br />
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<a href="http://www.irunfar.com/2012/02/heel-toe-drop-in-running-shoes.html">http://www.irunfar.com/2012/02/heel-toe-drop-in-running-shoes.html</a><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><i>So what is the perfect drop? At the end of the day, that’s up to you. Your terrain, biomechanical needs, and personal preferences determine your ideal combination of drop, cushioning, and support. The “minimalist movement” isn’t defined by the lightest, lowest drop shoe you can find; rather its all about finding the least amount of shoe you need to enjoy running efficiently and injury free. Nothing more. Nothing less.<br /> </i></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><i><b>Higher drop shoes (10mm+)</b> lower the levels of active cushioning required by the body and quicken the toe-off. In other words, the impact of your stride requires less tension in you foot/arch/ankles/calves/knees/quads, and immediately rolls your foot forward to toe off. The trade-off: these shoes can be heavier, less stable in technical terrain, and make active cushioning muscles weak and injury prone (i.e. IT Band Syndrome, plantar fasciitis, and patellar tendonitis).<br /> </i></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><i><b>Lower drop shoes (0-8mm)</b> allow more arch and ankle articulation for better trail feel and are generally lighter, with less material. However, they also require increased active cushioning (muscles and tendons you use running barefoot to cushion your stride), and require a runner to power through their turnover with their own feet.</i></span></div>
bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-78937389044459033642014-12-28T10:25:00.001+11:002015-06-14T21:48:21.603+10:00Healed Foot Clinic - Blister Prevention Taping by Anna Beetham<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
For those who suffer foot blisters incessantly as I do, here are some great clips on blister prevention taping by podiatrist Anna & best practices for long runs, she recommends using Fixomull tape ("it's gold").. off I pop to the chemist to get some.. <br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8DrWC_jYyc" target="_blank">Healed Foot Clinic 1- Blister Prevention Taping (heels)</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-L5KX9QSQA" target="_blank">Healed Foot Clinic 2 - Blister Prevention Taping (big toe)</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hrxst0OKuJc" target="_blank">Healed Foot Clinic 3 - Blister Prevention Taping (toes)</a></div>
bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-20155463144174614542014-06-02T21:18:00.000+10:002015-02-16T11:48:41.806+11:00Salomon XT Hornet / Fellraiser - Product Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So. I've been told several times that Salomon shoes are rather narrow & surprise surprise.. I was very happy to learn that the XT Hornet (& most likely XT Wings 3) are actually kinda wide.. <br />
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With online shopping (that many Aussies do) we're victims of many trials & errors - I'm hoping with this entry I can help some of you who may be thinking of getting these Salomon shoes but are unsure about fitting etc.<br />
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My feet are kinda wide, & I need bit more cushioning in the Achilles heel area. But how wide?<br />
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Here's how my feet measures up:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgCDVBac9HLDb3JAo4hyphenhyphen4IjBsxlFPgRRlL3oOTPvpILJGays-DfNY0ub_9Kmbihp1F6YcaZcZQmchBBs9JOII4lc9rIrCadmDX8xMRU6LHUmDWSwm3k3lcKTLkJIDNJcxu6p4Gmsqk58/s1600/P1030819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgCDVBac9HLDb3JAo4hyphenhyphen4IjBsxlFPgRRlL3oOTPvpILJGays-DfNY0ub_9Kmbihp1F6YcaZcZQmchBBs9JOII4lc9rIrCadmDX8xMRU6LHUmDWSwm3k3lcKTLkJIDNJcxu6p4Gmsqk58/s1600/P1030819.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5gq8lPHnsLoKII8UNDP-egBxGGxTLUDtzFFfI3QcYnsXJKN2X9pNm8cbSRE0_x5Aod4DZ3m64b2iiGT3bqnmTA2osna7vQrrubEAv-_NnVrXdPYxeogEJd53xGh_o5OUx7HZj9ww3fU/s1600/P1030820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5gq8lPHnsLoKII8UNDP-egBxGGxTLUDtzFFfI3QcYnsXJKN2X9pNm8cbSRE0_x5Aod4DZ3m64b2iiGT3bqnmTA2osna7vQrrubEAv-_NnVrXdPYxeogEJd53xGh_o5OUx7HZj9ww3fU/s1600/P1030820.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Widest at 11cm & kinda fat throughout, Length is 25.3cm.. </span></td></tr>
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The XT Hornet at UK 9.5 fits very nicely for my 11cm wide/ 25.3 long feet.. my feet do not feel squeezed at the sides & I have sufficient toe box area. The XT Hornet offers more cushioning at the Achilles heel compared to the Fellraiser so I definitely feel I have found the right Salomon shoe & size. Having said that during my initial run the sole felt quite stiff & I'll probably be putting another layer of sole just for added cushioning - however this could improve as I slowly break into the shoe - we shall see. All in all pretty damn chuffed about them so far.. they are sturdy for the mountain trails but not as elaborate as the XA Pro Ultra 3D & my favourite feature being the wide heel outsole which is awesome for stability..<br />
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<a href="http://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com/2015/02/heel-toe-drop-it-matters.html" target="_blank">UPDATE 16Feb2015 - Read more here on the stiff sole & my 2 ankle sprains!</a> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKigH7ZL987ajM7L13TlbqwV7O62KFJfs4gFmIRi_JiqqC5RixfczkKADiYGtBHXaGD_RYR4Jy3DgD4vOXlbfqP2gUVBRjrqRrGlX0jI6HUpjcdP0R1L67jG8MuA9EE6p0JBd2Mtyqws/s1600/salomon-xt-hornet-shoes-356743_hi_104072.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKigH7ZL987ajM7L13TlbqwV7O62KFJfs4gFmIRi_JiqqC5RixfczkKADiYGtBHXaGD_RYR4Jy3DgD4vOXlbfqP2gUVBRjrqRrGlX0jI6HUpjcdP0R1L67jG8MuA9EE6p0JBd2Mtyqws/s1600/salomon-xt-hornet-shoes-356743_hi_104072.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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The S-LAB Fellraiser at UK 9.0 (& my previous Salomon shoes ie. XA Pro Ultra 3D) definitely feels a bit tight width-wise compared to the XT Hornet. If you have narrower feet than my 11cm you may find them a good fit. Having said that the Fellraiser has its place - light, grippy, low-profile, fast - I use it for short mucky flat-ish fast trails, not too technical... protection against jagged rocks is minimal (you will feel them sharp rocks, no rock plate), if your Achilles heel needs more cushioning like mine during steep climbs these won't quite cut it.. coz cushioning material is kept to a minimal & if your heel digs into the back of the shoe like mine does, you're not gonna like the friction. Keeping to shorter trails my feet don't swell as much & wearing them with thin socks - they do alright.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrws5boHIx-ZXF4YpnZUCU_6il-T1znDmMGI8gFvrW6TLhGBzlTCotJdTfCKPBVwH777m6f7_9CTibayIQhNexYABqMSw9ZuymTOKkRiVGjwjSzizg5cOF_SL_KJTrgJfJVvqSsi0txjI/s1600/Salomon-Fellraiser-Shoes-SS14-Offroad-Running-Shoes-Black-Red-ATOB-SS14-L35233500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrws5boHIx-ZXF4YpnZUCU_6il-T1znDmMGI8gFvrW6TLhGBzlTCotJdTfCKPBVwH777m6f7_9CTibayIQhNexYABqMSw9ZuymTOKkRiVGjwjSzizg5cOF_SL_KJTrgJfJVvqSsi0txjI/s1600/Salomon-Fellraiser-Shoes-SS14-Offroad-Running-Shoes-Black-Red-ATOB-SS14-L35233500.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here are some further comparison:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihiVG94goQHZpEyvL9BSMW6TaqFzX6NLDgJSDZgnbNucCFUfGX_qQ0ytwMllcAErfvyCWnrUXNFetL1qxfjTj4YdF-U4MuQLynPWNDxwsXcgkxqQpRfHa4D6QjL7tdCQNlY9qBn8OZu6A/s1600/P1030705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihiVG94goQHZpEyvL9BSMW6TaqFzX6NLDgJSDZgnbNucCFUfGX_qQ0ytwMllcAErfvyCWnrUXNFetL1qxfjTj4YdF-U4MuQLynPWNDxwsXcgkxqQpRfHa4D6QjL7tdCQNlY9qBn8OZu6A/s1600/P1030705.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fellraiser - narrow, fast & streamlined / Hornet - wide, sturdy & stable </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgCmhJiSugpEyInXVFB7iLakVhzs-NVVl0UFaE5SRdfyt5-cUql-8QFH821VgooYn5dOT_g7ZzxcFLw8_J1BhhEzW0D8wK2iR8t1A1WiryiFA46HiOkihsEAcNrKVRsyUrmRyanym0k0/s1600/P1030708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgCmhJiSugpEyInXVFB7iLakVhzs-NVVl0UFaE5SRdfyt5-cUql-8QFH821VgooYn5dOT_g7ZzxcFLw8_J1BhhEzW0D8wK2iR8t1A1WiryiFA46HiOkihsEAcNrKVRsyUrmRyanym0k0/s1600/P1030708.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lugs - Fellraiser's lugs are almost twice the thickness!</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGSuZT-XudflLiffmQQfvAb1RqS63wxeDm_D8-laZVJ6vi87G11T_ypl9l7OHhx8kshJTuuUbNoEjMXLb_aFLIqgjjkO-pSR2tSA0N8KVOKYLXm7DjtzcAHQwm2FlBa7L049KI_m-ZiA/s1600/P1030811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGSuZT-XudflLiffmQQfvAb1RqS63wxeDm_D8-laZVJ6vi87G11T_ypl9l7OHhx8kshJTuuUbNoEjMXLb_aFLIqgjjkO-pSR2tSA0N8KVOKYLXm7DjtzcAHQwm2FlBa7L049KI_m-ZiA/s1600/P1030811.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: x-small;">In the mucky trails they did cake up pretty quickly.. but I'm not complaining</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpHLeFCPUkXiXbhxQZQonIgH1kbloEJt0mr2o4ROXqOalN2si8-VWUu35_wlKQeXv4OE-vt15lfhyphenhyphenz3RIOlGbfdABuaA6Wf4xe_8g-2IuLAkVZAKogrW31V2kuF1ocCvj2O1DzJIiT6U/s1600/P1030709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpHLeFCPUkXiXbhxQZQonIgH1kbloEJt0mr2o4ROXqOalN2si8-VWUu35_wlKQeXv4OE-vt15lfhyphenhyphenz3RIOlGbfdABuaA6Wf4xe_8g-2IuLAkVZAKogrW31V2kuF1ocCvj2O1DzJIiT6U/s1600/P1030709.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Archilles heel cushioning - Hornet offers more & Fellraiser minimal</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupKPYWwoPGCTJGs6AtVubxv6Qt785FfpaSOq5mmOumVTZLR9YUQiUqG7DrLWRr2bHs8TW_ChOylVpVU034KjMteDVKF_IjfqmuC35bU-_COrgfQBN5LQtvTdE052_gaszR-hnBoKqaTE/s1600/P1030725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupKPYWwoPGCTJGs6AtVubxv6Qt785FfpaSOq5mmOumVTZLR9YUQiUqG7DrLWRr2bHs8TW_ChOylVpVU034KjMteDVKF_IjfqmuC35bU-_COrgfQBN5LQtvTdE052_gaszR-hnBoKqaTE/s1600/P1030725.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outsole - widest is my Karrimor Excel - the Hornet is next & Fellraiser narrow</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrqNtP0CjOjQmOB4Pq1sOniSzYCFdydDzwT5_fIH-MOh9PwiqAzcAVV7GLPbJN8rBABCyhwDZx9Eqlp8L2G17EUb6UQaMUKNkr9f1OSbEc2G4tE1TaYVdrDfY4RmeL9GaZpWzYbxH6JLw/s1600/P1030726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrqNtP0CjOjQmOB4Pq1sOniSzYCFdydDzwT5_fIH-MOh9PwiqAzcAVV7GLPbJN8rBABCyhwDZx9Eqlp8L2G17EUb6UQaMUKNkr9f1OSbEc2G4tE1TaYVdrDfY4RmeL9GaZpWzYbxH6JLw/s1600/P1030726.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well - nothing much to compare from the top - just a nice color contrast!</td></tr>
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Quite frankly I'm just glad I found a Salomon shoe that I can actually wear for my big runs! Once again I think the XT Hornet is very similar for the XT Wings 3 - their profiles looks almost identical & hopefully many of the info for Hornet can apply to the Wings as well...<br />
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Well hope my short & sweet product review info has helped folks.. Happy Salomon shopping & trail running!<br />
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-35055081544748379722014-06-01T21:00:00.000+10:002014-06-01T21:00:03.571+10:00Karrimor Excel - Product Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I wasn't expecting much when I purchased the Karrimor Excel from a Sportsdirect store out of desperation. I had no suitable shoes leading up to Buffalo Stampede and was pleasantly surprised by the fit & cushioning of the Karrimor Excel when I tried them on. I'm still putting this entry up because after some minor tweaks to the shoes I did feel confident they would bring me through Buffalo & Macedon - both pretty gruelling trail events.. and they did. </div>
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<b>First Impressions</b> - when I still in the store, studying the material used I wasn't expecting these shoes to last very long - the laces were of poor quality & were too elastic to be effective. however it had a wide heel base which I liked & once again, it just felt very cushiony & comfy (more than the Salomons & Hokas). The fit was good for my wide feet as well so I couldn't ask for more given they were also retailed at less than MYR200 (~ AUD70). I knew I had to modify the laces & it could potentially work OK.</div>
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Here's a quick breakdown of the good & bad:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCVQR2TL0nk0o8PQqUNX-CRd85TYMmsM1phS1TkFy9UtQ59RbKdU7PIyTSyD6R0pu6cBH2iy5JfEoDMTwhAAx0nzyYTPn_0nXduwe0FmqYq_AJrb3QigzMelkewUs2e83328rmt23uLLA/s1600/P1030712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCVQR2TL0nk0o8PQqUNX-CRd85TYMmsM1phS1TkFy9UtQ59RbKdU7PIyTSyD6R0pu6cBH2iy5JfEoDMTwhAAx0nzyYTPn_0nXduwe0FmqYq_AJrb3QigzMelkewUs2e83328rmt23uLLA/s1600/P1030712.jpg" height="292" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the before-after the lace modification.. as expected the shoe performed much better with normal laces</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPdnVUOYhJj_MQ8Ftia_-S4ciq9h18unvYrUJ7Ls1veLctfxSCqgAauGEsz4ju2lgy3n3ZBpX4Zrc5ZfHsD2ZvvNoIeAhEGwDGRSmmBSsHKtehL2agnC-Nh782KN2leMlBkDtJiTPWU8/s1600/P1030713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPdnVUOYhJj_MQ8Ftia_-S4ciq9h18unvYrUJ7Ls1veLctfxSCqgAauGEsz4ju2lgy3n3ZBpX4Zrc5ZfHsD2ZvvNoIeAhEGwDGRSmmBSsHKtehL2agnC-Nh782KN2leMlBkDtJiTPWU8/s1600/P1030713.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wide heel base.. great for downhill stability</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAEMyX5av50Yi3sNc7WJnKwBQXg8C446FVv_DRKn8vhjACsPZZSiR99pvu9RfcqLK0_M8Zm2tgeiXUTAYuc-9KYRl_Dtic1pHX8D92_sqXk0T9l-HjyVZ2sF46Pqlo0B6lbqonjUYklcA/s1600/P1030714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAEMyX5av50Yi3sNc7WJnKwBQXg8C446FVv_DRKn8vhjACsPZZSiR99pvu9RfcqLK0_M8Zm2tgeiXUTAYuc-9KYRl_Dtic1pHX8D92_sqXk0T9l-HjyVZ2sF46Pqlo0B6lbqonjUYklcA/s1600/P1030714.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sole design & material is grippy in muddy conditions & cushiony - but is quick to wear & tear - see following pics.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbb-SEeHRsmCixg9nAzLMHpnG6XCHVINGPeKDksGM2K1Nu8LuWrFd58nacp-mH_IsiX_eCSf6irqCwvG71c_K7waawatsqFrwWpdTL69BmfERBooehLaG07N9X1YU_APfBK15f10GdzY/s1600/P1030715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbb-SEeHRsmCixg9nAzLMHpnG6XCHVINGPeKDksGM2K1Nu8LuWrFd58nacp-mH_IsiX_eCSf6irqCwvG71c_K7waawatsqFrwWpdTL69BmfERBooehLaG07N9X1YU_APfBK15f10GdzY/s1600/P1030715.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaC0DgQr14TBBJ8wYwHWYCgcmsM-_oHFdtW77UokGODBHUcrcFe-RY-o_XAeL_QMYd1FgkcXezVlfl1YE6WvFgGW4FRVe5_L81ZOqjk9c0NfddgkXQjwnrqT8sums_aMPLuMjiA3GYyk/s1600/P1030717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaC0DgQr14TBBJ8wYwHWYCgcmsM-_oHFdtW77UokGODBHUcrcFe-RY-o_XAeL_QMYd1FgkcXezVlfl1YE6WvFgGW4FRVe5_L81ZOqjk9c0NfddgkXQjwnrqT8sums_aMPLuMjiA3GYyk/s1600/P1030717.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM_xLPz_qEl0OeHcILe9bZz8TzOfaBXF2tyZGyT7c_6eocFb8YdXFkL1vja135VBOaMAv2NKmCgfdscWBB9nFjGGGhi_aI6RQcgArrv41JboMts_8090AZ43f2MiGnSnvBK_fJKsHU-4/s1600/P1030718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM_xLPz_qEl0OeHcILe9bZz8TzOfaBXF2tyZGyT7c_6eocFb8YdXFkL1vja135VBOaMAv2NKmCgfdscWBB9nFjGGGhi_aI6RQcgArrv41JboMts_8090AZ43f2MiGnSnvBK_fJKsHU-4/s1600/P1030718.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cushioning was pretty normal to start with, training in them it wasn't long before I had to add extra soles to provide the cushioning I wanted.. </td></tr>
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<b>All in all </b>- I would recommend these shoes if you're after a low-budget trail shoe & especially if you're a wide-feet like me. These shoes while not perfect are pretty comfortable. I think its inevitable the laces need replacement. The sole design works well in muddy wet conditions - they don't retain mud cakes too easily either. They would last a bit longer too if you're not doing technical trails all the time but don't expect them to last quite as long as the bigger brands eg. Salomon & Hokas.<br />
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Here are some links for more info:<br />
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<a href="http://www.karrimor.com/karrimor-excel-mens-trail-running-shoes-213003?colcode=21300313">http://www.karrimor.com/karrimor-excel-mens-trail-running-shoes-213003?colcode=21300313</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-excel-mens-trail-running-shoes-213003?colcode=21300313">http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-excel-mens-trail-running-shoes-213003?colcode=21300313</a></div>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-84379841849708721592014-05-15T00:23:00.000+10:002014-06-01T16:15:11.097+10:00Macedon 50k - Sweet Brutality.. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhG2R3f1YM-UX0-PaOOh3YkuyjrLRa5GM0oHLxzluTXV7TwTv6SGaxAq03mxP9MQibzSJk74Z52ufayRaaOEcoJmpo_f16kzddQNxFyLw6yZpa8rOaJY60Ii4sUCBiVYgdgG0hkNllN8/s1600/IMG_3125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhG2R3f1YM-UX0-PaOOh3YkuyjrLRa5GM0oHLxzluTXV7TwTv6SGaxAq03mxP9MQibzSJk74Z52ufayRaaOEcoJmpo_f16kzddQNxFyLw6yZpa8rOaJY60Ii4sUCBiVYgdgG0hkNllN8/s1600/IMG_3125.jpg" height="304" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is hard to imagine it was just last Sunday I made that rather strained leap across the finish line, hammies hammered & fingers frozen, but with such sweet elation.. :) I have my wife to thank for these memorable finishing shots, completing the Macedon 50k felt <i>absolutely </i>fantastic only because it lived up to the toughness that everyone had described it to be. I'm proud that I finished with little left in the legs - I pushed myself hard in the final 2k climb & executed pretty much as planned!<br />
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And not-so-secretly it was also the mini-redemption for the DNF at Buffalo.. the 'rebound' run :) While the two are very different runs, Macedon is no push-over either & demanded serious mental & physical commitment (for me anyway!). It felt like I've tied up some loose ends from Buffalo & reinstated that important feeling of completion..<br />
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This year we also had a contrasting lovely weather. Personally I would've enjoyed a bit of rain & muck but the weather was certainly more welcoming in general compared to last year's weather el miserables.. race organisation was great but Brett seemed a little bit short on volunteers.. directions & ribbons were a-plenty but certain sections it was still possible to take wrong turns.<br />
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Anyway. Let's jump into the race recap....<br />
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<b>The General Plan</b> was very similar to last year's.. broke it down to chunks of 10k - I gave myself a bit more breathing space for the first 30k and set the target for 4:30hrs (1:20, 1:30, 1:40)... I knew I would be slowing down despite a general downhill profile for 30-40k so I planned for 1:30 for this section. For the next section heading out & back from the tunnels I gave myself about 1:00 & another 1:00 for the final big climb & finishing - 8:00 hours in total. I would remind myself to stay fresh for the first 20k... expect tiredness to kick going into 35k - and then good ol grinding as I push beyond 40k onwards.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4Rz6x1Ho6NphkzRtIDoBeqrPhY82vh1UwMHNjovvXPLj6yMnMzVY9cwqLvRIvykygfFr3ASjY7BhNSJsGwhlcReV4wq5FjKSQ_uWiBuo7NShSOMupHOmpZI_eOvvAb4_kEDyT2X4oUY/s1600/Untitled.png" height="205" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Garmin recorded 2351m elevation gain & 52.5km in distance</td></tr>
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<b>0-30k</b> - Overall the first 30k was still tough-going despite a slower pace.. I wasn't going particularly fast but managed to catch up with some runners as the kilometres went by.. I was pleasantly surprised I could feel some energy surge with the Amazeballs & they seemed like a good complement to the Tailwind I was sipping (it doesn't fill my hunger pangs unfortunately)..<br />
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The technical downhills helped make up time & I thoroughly enjoyed descending fast & with confidence.. I was moving well on the muddy technical descents especially but the rocky bits were still a bit challenging - the Karrimor shoes I was wearing has been wearing thin & I would get a sharp jab every now & then from the rocks... I remember thinking HOKAs would've been perfect tackling all these blasted sharp rocks.. if only HOKAs made their shoes wider it would possibly be the perfect shoes for me.<br />
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It was great to see the lovely SCTR folks at the SCTR aid station 3 - seeing familiar friendly faces in the middle of the woods cheering you on is nothing short of golden :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4bi8PaQFI5L4yGBCWUNAdwzyJ4WhtefLcddZeZxbQkCCIhUCoU8xWktplLH4fkdUVXJK13gzGgSPcz1ZpTlpN7oLe6GV_OC_iI3oL1j-YClDkqS5keJbyvkz16ChpmY3NwofinJGa63Q/s1600/10298144_10152441326438395_4131797625707220703_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4bi8PaQFI5L4yGBCWUNAdwzyJ4WhtefLcddZeZxbQkCCIhUCoU8xWktplLH4fkdUVXJK13gzGgSPcz1ZpTlpN7oLe6GV_OC_iI3oL1j-YClDkqS5keJbyvkz16ChpmY3NwofinJGa63Q/s1600/10298144_10152441326438395_4131797625707220703_o.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yuan, Erin & Gary showering wearied runners with their loving smiles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3KH4hD6739rhOH_08LugCEd3pcvIeFlDhS5OmVHqQqwuRHJLbS4Txh6MDEGGhgf81RSq55CrNkIDHQRRz5k4hls5UwJbh-oijDMolTA4ZSZ8S8RQbAJmkT7Uja3ZA-6SgI6exnjILcw/s1600/P1030677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3KH4hD6739rhOH_08LugCEd3pcvIeFlDhS5OmVHqQqwuRHJLbS4Txh6MDEGGhgf81RSq55CrNkIDHQRRz5k4hls5UwJbh-oijDMolTA4ZSZ8S8RQbAJmkT7Uja3ZA-6SgI6exnjILcw/s1600/P1030677.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The views at around 18km mark, last year it was totally shrouded in mist.. </td></tr>
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As I slowly approached 30k I was tempted to push for a sub-4 like last year but I had to remind myself to stick to the plan, the real goal is 52k! Besides, I could feel blisters were forming & I did not want to aggravate it by pounding the trails too hard.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvS9vPxVOdHzzybVCKIJ0g_JWmnJ-8sgbbopxF4Ki2Q2I8AnGTOQYJy_mrRoypksI6-Xq1CB0Q7vWNfK61bRg73d8eSxCLbHzOFSq6WVmI2LQmkaYZLCbZFGtP0MrfucZu_YOpmYeaWnE/s1600/IMAG8000-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvS9vPxVOdHzzybVCKIJ0g_JWmnJ-8sgbbopxF4Ki2Q2I8AnGTOQYJy_mrRoypksI6-Xq1CB0Q7vWNfK61bRg73d8eSxCLbHzOFSq6WVmI2LQmkaYZLCbZFGtP0MrfucZu_YOpmYeaWnE/s1600/IMAG8000-2.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blister woes.. (again)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I started working on the blisters straight away as I arrived at 30k. The Injinji socks I was wearing were too thin for this rather technical terrain & fortunately I brought my thicker pair. I didn't rush myself as I knew I needed to get them fixed up properly or I'd never complete the run... after 8min of plasters, restocking of gel , Amazeballs & a kiss from the wife I was off!<br />
<br />
<b>30-40k</b> - Heading out I got a bit confused with the directions, I asked some runners for direction but nobody seem to be sure. I slowed down & doubled-back a few times to make sure I did not take the wrong turn (I feel that pushing hard & finding out you've gone completely the wrong way is the worst possible thing to happen to runners..) <br />
<br />
I enjoyed the short downhill from the Memorial Cross but facing the never-ending long undulations of fire trails between 30-40k was very mental for me. My legs were starting to feel the strain with every short & sharp climbs. I could feel a wall was coming & paid more attention to my nutrition intake every 20-30mins. Finally seeing the O'Briens at the 40k aid station felt like a mini achievement on its own!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwCZUq76aXnPW-IVj9QO1dy9BUHj52hFfmmpCDIupEsQy2TFmzTn2pDaiOQgd9SadquvOHld6rTzYml_cx3Xlq3lGaQEt9z9rHejRD-jXqd0MaQa4pZfGr3mrkliG9L134fz74s74WZ8/s1600/P1030682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwCZUq76aXnPW-IVj9QO1dy9BUHj52hFfmmpCDIupEsQy2TFmzTn2pDaiOQgd9SadquvOHld6rTzYml_cx3Xlq3lGaQEt9z9rHejRD-jXqd0MaQa4pZfGr3mrkliG9L134fz74s74WZ8/s1600/P1030682.jpg" height="420" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet sweet trails along 30-40k.. </td></tr>
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<b><br /></b>
<b>40-48k</b> - Asking "where the hell are these damn tunnels??" is probably is the only thing I remember while running this stretch... I was happy a mini 2nd-wind came at around 43k & arriving at the aid station it was great to see a smiling Regan running out to greet me :).. it turned out the first tunnel was just a couple of metres down where the aid station was via a short unmarked trail..<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlLzrVUMk8O5aISifcK8CQ-2wlj_OoJG3MxP-BSzDGUlud1eq_vyTThS0fG_K2Nm0mzKSReKBTDCPLQNp_diGb15cM13A-AOTQ86Zvv03RgZeuk9X2Ledn_ufTNZuTAbBQEarz_DjD6c/s1600/P1030686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlLzrVUMk8O5aISifcK8CQ-2wlj_OoJG3MxP-BSzDGUlud1eq_vyTThS0fG_K2Nm0mzKSReKBTDCPLQNp_diGb15cM13A-AOTQ86Zvv03RgZeuk9X2Ledn_ufTNZuTAbBQEarz_DjD6c/s1600/P1030686.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How beautiful is this.. </td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-3g7DtUQEepgCTxmNL3007uasaRIRUf6xcN3SureNDYcgEVPT2sXd2gA4kzBf9ryGNZJZjnkZDJJD4MQVMcOEIW2K_nhr_jWU2GUndbR1VycZMV7mpEiqVaZcOj-JMKjxljjCDahRsM/s1600/P1030692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-3g7DtUQEepgCTxmNL3007uasaRIRUf6xcN3SureNDYcgEVPT2sXd2gA4kzBf9ryGNZJZjnkZDJJD4MQVMcOEIW2K_nhr_jWU2GUndbR1VycZMV7mpEiqVaZcOj-JMKjxljjCDahRsM/s1600/P1030692.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TUNNEL!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_629751584"></span><span id="goog_629751585"></span><br />
Heading into the the 2nd tunnel I was in familiar territory, Vonsy & I had done a short recce few weeks back in that area & I knew I was on the return loop coming out of the 2nd tunnel. As I made the turn back towards the 40k aid-station, the final 2k big climb had started...<br />
<br />
<b>48-52.5k</b> - Waving goodbye to the O'Briens for the 2nd time, I knew I had less than an hour if I wanted to hit my target time. I must've stopped & stretched my tired quads about a hundred times as I plodded as fast as I could up to the top. At that point there was no question I would finish the run, it was just about how much I would push myself. Macedon gave me a great chance to exercise the mental fortitude lessons I learnt from Buffalo... I threw in all the positive thoughts I could think of I was almost nagging myself all the way to the finishing line!<br />
<br />
"Everyone else is going through the same pain right now, what's the big deal? KEEP MOVING!!"<br />
<br />
"What did you expect? OF COURSE the course is tough, that's why you signed up!! Move your ASS!!"<br />
<br />
"It's Mothers Day, think of mom!! You CAN'T stop!!"<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
There was a brief scare when I must've taken in too big a chunk of Amazeballs & I could feel my tummy was in rejection mode & small burps & tiny heaves started rearing their ugly heads... thankfully after forcing a huge burp, my tummy was back on form.<br />
<br />
Seeing the Memorial Cross was such a tease. You knew you are so close now yet your legs can go no faster. You keep pushing but they are not moving, they only respond by staying in the first gear. And just when you're all numbed out, you finally pop out from the woods & onto the tar road filled with tourists visiting the Cross all looking perplexed, wondering why is there a man in running tights looking like he is running away from the Cross & about to collapse any time.. :)<br />
<br />
But of course the final 2.5k is where it would mentally hurt the most. Almost by instinct your first thought is YES I've done it! I've conquered the mountain & the finishing line is just around the corner (& it physically is, I did nearly run direct to the finishing!).. but nooooooo... you got to loop round it for another 2.5k! And while you're quietly cursing away there's a little hill thrown in as well... the final icing on the quad-busting Macedon cake..<br />
<br />
But alas, after 7:53 hours of sweet brutality & mountain fun - I would be finally done.<br />
<br />
With my wife & friends cheering as I crossed the finishing line.. it was a beautiful day for a beautiful run. A happy day. Nothing beats the feeling of completing something that you know has pushed your boundaries & it's such a great feeling being able to share the experience with all the fellow exhausted runners :)<br />
<br />
Macedon continues to impress & if you're thinking of a decent challenge for yourself or just to experience trail running in a beautiful setting - definitely sign up for 2015.. until next time folks, happy trail running!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing joys... courtesy of Yuan/Brett</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPBEOCUejy5daEJYN5URb3F8CMZOcM99L4nFnVBp0-wUmT7BMnc-f_Lzb7ThnW0qZHdYrryC48DR73OoilCOIITUlnAIE5jQeApQMGDL8dVszN6fgeQNxWcUcmkJsdZMlNMXWMOwlXKT0/s1600/P1030695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPBEOCUejy5daEJYN5URb3F8CMZOcM99L4nFnVBp0-wUmT7BMnc-f_Lzb7ThnW0qZHdYrryC48DR73OoilCOIITUlnAIE5jQeApQMGDL8dVszN6fgeQNxWcUcmkJsdZMlNMXWMOwlXKT0/s1600/P1030695.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Nutrition planning - Tailwind + Amazeballs + Gels + Snickers!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dedicated to my dearest mom, Happy Mothers Day Ma!<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-8901438959951944262014-04-10T20:30:00.000+10:002014-04-15T13:00:51.485+10:00Buffalo Stampede Ultra Sky Marathon 2014 - Gored & Gutted... <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My first ever DNF..... and boy it sure sucks!! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCD0X4Slonau2rPGsB12qqpyqbjDAKb-UYhjUQZXw9kYkdIM55IHp-a4_4Ng_Bw7N7GAarUV_pMD_g-SQHTdAbCxpJNs4X1FfuvYhV48aZ5f_Sq6-N65zrIra0P7-NwuJT42qkMYtWw8/s1600/IMG_2610e.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCD0X4Slonau2rPGsB12qqpyqbjDAKb-UYhjUQZXw9kYkdIM55IHp-a4_4Ng_Bw7N7GAarUV_pMD_g-SQHTdAbCxpJNs4X1FfuvYhV48aZ5f_Sq6-N65zrIra0P7-NwuJT42qkMYtWw8/s1600/IMG_2610e.jpg" height="305" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Disappointed?</b> It's hard not to be :) Mentally I was ready. But physically I couldn't deliver. Nutrition planning was torn to shreds by the Buffalo.. in short, I was out of my league in the 75k event that day. <br />
<br />
<b>Am I proud though? </b>For sure. Would've loved a successful execution but personal milestones were reached that day regardless. Highest elevation gain (2900m+) & longest run to date (>10hours) ! I've given it much thought since & I recall how Vonsy & me staring at the elevation graph going 'NO WAY' back in January. And there were cut-off times to think about. And that was just for the 42k. We left it late signing up for it because we knew how much training would be needed to even have the confidence to toe the starting line.. so this has been a milestone for sure despite the DNF. <br />
<br />
<b>Overall thoughts? </b>One helluva route! I have truly fallen in love with Mt Buffalo despite the punishing course. The views were really unexpected especially as I was going round the Chalet loop. Loved the waterfall & streams along the rock face, that was truly memorable.<br />
<br />
As for the run, with the poor nutrition execution I probably left about 90% of me (& my guts) out
there when I stopped at the 52k Eurobin mark. Doing the Big Walk with
just water & raisins took too big a chunk out of me. For the
remaining 10%, the way I see it Keating Ridge would have eaten up 6%
easily. And I would have 4% left for
both Clear Spot & Mystic. Meaning I would be extremely extremely slow for the
last 2 climbs. It was 50-50 making cut-off at 17.5 hours (most likely caving at Baker's Gully). Reaching Eurobin the rain
started pouring, the muddy slopes of the final two hills played in my
mind. But it wasn't the muddy slopes that deterred me (Vonsy knew that
when she said "you know you love the rain!"). Too true. I love rain. I
love mud. I would've relished the experience doing them in the dark too!
I wasn't afraid of the challenge ahead.<br />
<br />
<i>I was simply exhausted.</i><br />
<br />
Since
the Chalet loop I could feel my body slowly shutting down on me. I knew
I would have to live with the DNF decision.. so it had to be for a
bloody good reason. Going on I would be pushing beyond what my body was
prepared to give...
& there certainly would be repercussions (ie. worst fear being
injuries, crewing
for Vonsy like a zombie or not at all etc).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="more"></a><br />
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<b>Race-Recap:</b><br />
<br />
1) Bright - Mystic - Baker's Gully (7.6km) (time 1:13 target 1:30)<br />
Felt good at the start. But climbing Mystic I felt I was going a bit too hard too early, heart rate was high, but happy I was ahead of target reaching Baker's Gully. Enjoyed the muddy descent. Knew I had to bring heart rate down for next climb.<br />
<br />
2) Baker's Gully - Clear Spot - Bucklands (15.2km) (time 2:35 target 3:30)<br />
<div>
Poles helped, marching up Clear Spot in small steps, feeling surprisingly strong, heart rate was OK, happy long descent again. Lovely views. Wasn't too troubled by the steep muddy downhills. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_k0kChLCCiKzxipxlvaP0Jj_RfKEMFVXcyoXoRNtPBLz0l7L5APeFynKDJ-qX9RjZiN8YD361W6tjuddQ4pHdLIAkyZXzk5BH8W44gLLGEFPb2vcBZ0WqdRRhlpMNjSdQprvIEzLp1E/s1600/10003766_10152104783686220_2866573207429743925_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_k0kChLCCiKzxipxlvaP0Jj_RfKEMFVXcyoXoRNtPBLz0l7L5APeFynKDJ-qX9RjZiN8YD361W6tjuddQ4pHdLIAkyZXzk5BH8W44gLLGEFPb2vcBZ0WqdRRhlpMNjSdQprvIEzLp1E/s1600/10003766_10152104783686220_2866573207429743925_o.jpg" height="427" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view as we descended Clear Spot</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute to Bucklands.. Buffalo awaits.. </td></tr>
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<div>
<br />
3) Bucklands - Keating Ridge - Eurobin (24.3km) (time 3:55 target 5:00)</div>
<div>
Shouldn't have taken a 2nd cup of Coke at Bucklands aid station but gassy discomfort eased out eventually. First sign of lethargy (that was quick!) going up Keating Ridge, body was sweating a lot more than usual, kept hydrating, poles were helping but legs were slowing down.. a happy downhill but socks were getting damped from the sweat & could feel blisters slowly forming, reached Eurobin sub-4, 1hour ahead of target. Changed out of attire, felt better. Had sushi rice, watermelon, refill electrolytes.. great to see the SCTR crew & supporters!! No sign of wife though! Boo! <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_CLn_3N2xO3RG2tuck7WTM_aV7ivgjVBzUs1DlLiAbn0edkkfWnEDwpcRdzOwZBcrm9xFlyZftJyMjY3Ha3QTSgfMkfak4UahGXduI-suqSv5SiQkujgTiIwuBPiFBDpBqhxMW9AgIUQ/s1600/10003771_10152345453308923_1896188602882004089_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_CLn_3N2xO3RG2tuck7WTM_aV7ivgjVBzUs1DlLiAbn0edkkfWnEDwpcRdzOwZBcrm9xFlyZftJyMjY3Ha3QTSgfMkfak4UahGXduI-suqSv5SiQkujgTiIwuBPiFBDpBqhxMW9AgIUQ/s1600/10003771_10152345453308923_1896188602882004089_o.jpg" height="400" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excessively sweaty...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
4) Eurobin - Chalet (35km) (time 6:43)<br />
Started the climb just after 4hours feeling good! Even took a selfie. But 15 mins into climb trouble started... I started belching, the tummy was revolting!! Couldn't believe it. A little stitch was forming & I threw up.. right after that I felt like I got hit by a freight train. Told myself to take mini-steps & keep climbing. Wanted to take in something to fight the lethargy but tummy was just angry... had to take in water, some little raisins slowly & gently. The climb was getting harder & I was overtaken by few runners. Motivation was down. But had to keep pushing. Sign of cramps but with every sip of electrolytes there was belching.. feeling bloated. Threw up again as I heaved air into the tummy. Tried to breathe through nose & chest instead.. was zoning in & out at times. Rested more frequently. Nausea every time I squatted or bent down. Dakota goes zooming by... followed by Ben & Blake.... damn these kids are fast, had to keep climbing. Raisins & water. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQzTv76NGwLkROBI91nhDoyjQUQQKMPMDJyHYjCk151qrDvAkg4xUPcCB_QDYeg6mdSuXW7VEmIsTiCN-k8gt6GcaURvDErFu48mCf9eXCxfWdlW4zj_ZGSDTMYkn03BdUJeUclKp3Vdc/s1600/10005963_760684243975278_1713687658_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQzTv76NGwLkROBI91nhDoyjQUQQKMPMDJyHYjCk151qrDvAkg4xUPcCB_QDYeg6mdSuXW7VEmIsTiCN-k8gt6GcaURvDErFu48mCf9eXCxfWdlW4zj_ZGSDTMYkn03BdUJeUclKp3Vdc/s1600/10005963_760684243975278_1713687658_o.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't let the smile fool ya... I was in much pain!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
DNF first appears in my head. Dissapointed my body was like that. Kept climbing. At one of the road junctions, bumped into Beth Cardelli CYCLING up Buffalo.. "hows it going??" she & the road marshal asked.. I stuck my tongue out & shook my head, "Keep Going!!" they cheered me on.. I'm trying, definitely trying.<br />
<br />
Finally made it to rock-face. Inspired by view!! Needed the distraction. Tummy seemingly recovering.. but legs has taken its toll... feeling very weak. Slow climb on rock face section. Washed face & sipped at streams & loving the views. Thought about TMBT how it was enjoyable because there was no pressure of cut-offs. Had to think positive like that again. Was feeling fresher towards the top, could run a bit but very slow.. overall feeling very tired & disappointed despite tummy feeling less angry. <br />
<br />
Entering the flats towards aid station at Chalet spirit picked up a bit, bumped into more runners descending including Chris, Tim, Isaac, Jacinta etc.. finally approaching Chalet, with cow-bells ringing I was just happy to have made it. Shared tummy agony stories with
everyone. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgldOMDGCwB4rVNIcL3ftckCt3xny48Ib79nFqwjX9NLXGNX424we_ss3sEZNw0TFg3omU1_qOsqv7Qk3cv1b-d85gj7yigRnRrL3etj8CNhKt60zX5B9e9tJxAazWWF8RZzIpd80rwCGs/s1600/IMG_2525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgldOMDGCwB4rVNIcL3ftckCt3xny48Ib79nFqwjX9NLXGNX424we_ss3sEZNw0TFg3omU1_qOsqv7Qk3cv1b-d85gj7yigRnRrL3etj8CNhKt60zX5B9e9tJxAazWWF8RZzIpd80rwCGs/s1600/IMG_2525.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elated that I made it to Chalet.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQq-ZUHSCWVQFP1Fg9Gw8CgHpaR_sShy7onGLXwxDWe3Y4GHaD-JjN5acQuMjh3ra1kXeRdBYN9R5kdfNHd0UarzwLih3w3w7wsQHLP5vWotbX6NfSemaqlEWV0cRM4i6a_wAiYwgJa4c/s1600/IMG_2530e.jpg" height="340" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Face of pain.. much contemplation took place on that rock!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Ron & Matt had finished the loop looking strong. Wished I could feel strong like them. Wanted to push on but had doubts. Vonsy convinced me to do the 7k loop first before deciding. Swapped out all my electrolytes to Heed, had some food (thanks Sharon!), 10mins later I pushed on. It's just 7k anyway........... right?<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhYcqR6mq-ZECwBTveHiEI236GT35RFbpptTDPdz9iLB1VA8RFw95Cz9pI8ENBUSCoOaVXH9AUM9HrSs19BerJkHiedVcnM93mt-m9JeAT9fRXLcFmcJqmk-asnF-Vb6ya7cHN6ReAG4/s1600/1291517_10153953527240004_4973207525535780171_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhYcqR6mq-ZECwBTveHiEI236GT35RFbpptTDPdz9iLB1VA8RFw95Cz9pI8ENBUSCoOaVXH9AUM9HrSs19BerJkHiedVcnM93mt-m9JeAT9fRXLcFmcJqmk-asnF-Vb6ya7cHN6ReAG4/s1600/1291517_10153953527240004_4973207525535780171_o.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ron & Matt looking solid.. Photo credit: Claire</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
5) Loop - Chalet (42km) (time 8:22 target 8:00)<br />
Wrong... plenty of climbs to tackle still & could only muster a sad shuffle on the flats.. muscles were terribly strained. Still could do descents. Bumped into a smiling Siqi looking good & moving well. Bit of traffic jam at rabbit holes section, one lady was having difficulty. Chit-chatted to several runners while waiting & was a nice distraction. Was now purely on Heed & mini-snickers & raisins, had energy but legs would scream whenever there's ascent. Was losing both speed & motivation... longest 7k ever. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUr2kCgkxZnWM8fb5CPr8qndM6vxteJaxCNeGspMu8M7rLnQiigd5NmdIlpLbEOs9_321-9l8qQpzCKSM9-BypwrUhkLPODRsVjDKprQKVFTiDfbS_vaQma4ULt6EHp7_zLpsmf0Ugyk/s1600/IMG_2574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUr2kCgkxZnWM8fb5CPr8qndM6vxteJaxCNeGspMu8M7rLnQiigd5NmdIlpLbEOs9_321-9l8qQpzCKSM9-BypwrUhkLPODRsVjDKprQKVFTiDfbS_vaQma4ULt6EHp7_zLpsmf0Ugyk/s1600/IMG_2574.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Face says it all.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Lingered & discussed DNF with Vons & Alexa, waited for Gregor to show up to decide whether to push on. A running partner would certainly help. The girls suggested just do the 10k of downhill first. It was do-able as I could still do descents. Conflicting thoughts. Mainly thinking about the 3 hills ahead. I could tackle Keating Ridge slowly but last 2 hills would have finished me off before I could make cut-off. Unless my legs recovered somehow. Gregor returns & decided to pull-out (damn you Gregor!). I doubted again... rested nearly 30mins. Finally decided to tackle the downhill for personal reasons (had to take something back from Buffalo) & call it a day. NO regrets. Patched up blisters (thanks Medic!), changed socks (with arch of sole cramping!!) & pushed off.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKD5QjZXHz3BlftB7uPPIm0TcBriD0NIIrVE1Idmt6CcIOY9wj3iQ1kCjFxP6KogcMj8tQo5J4VXYgo6DklR-O53PXX6EA-z7NWfsD1nWkmtT42XK6KZHFmNSKh-UeMcEzWb1ZAuuiRc/s1600/1077186_10152286495446117_7452192901712007322_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKD5QjZXHz3BlftB7uPPIm0TcBriD0NIIrVE1Idmt6CcIOY9wj3iQ1kCjFxP6KogcMj8tQo5J4VXYgo6DklR-O53PXX6EA-z7NWfsD1nWkmtT42XK6KZHFmNSKh-UeMcEzWb1ZAuuiRc/s1600/1077186_10152286495446117_7452192901712007322_o.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medics have the best job... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
7) Big Descent - Eurobin (52k) (time 10:04 target 10:30)<br />
<b>Ran my heart out</b>. Loved the descent. Left it all out there. Tackled the technicals with confidence. Overtook at least 6-7 runners... I was taking something back from Buffalo finally. Soaked it all in. For once I was smiling. Had to take a last snap of the view.... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Tj7Ut18pa4w__lRNYvZisBYU4kpvbO3WSZsgNAOt6RnBCjrsjQE9bV869w6UftPoGkH9FQO6ELGqalBUZR8M-m8qmpVKjBuhzwv3yjxocuhCWIZXY-wcBfp6MoGsf0HAIq7UFafeWBE/s1600/1658420_10152104784551220_1413595001941675030_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Tj7Ut18pa4w__lRNYvZisBYU4kpvbO3WSZsgNAOt6RnBCjrsjQE9bV869w6UftPoGkH9FQO6ELGqalBUZR8M-m8qmpVKjBuhzwv3yjxocuhCWIZXY-wcBfp6MoGsf0HAIq7UFafeWBE/s1600/1658420_10152104784551220_1413595001941675030_o.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally crossed Eurobin creek bridge at 10 hours mark. Clocked just over an 1hr on descent. Legs smashed. NO regrets...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz1IYQgFQ5Itm5hbkL0vyJ4w9Zvcn1m-PClCZXj1LAqsINiByWCOT36a0PVFc6CGKQjwoGbXm9Y_yJA3y8CN34spZiL72M1gq0Dmy8FjxPzOq56nv48zwPk76QspQMKXqiE7RCofpu8Nk/s1600/IMG_2607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz1IYQgFQ5Itm5hbkL0vyJ4w9Zvcn1m-PClCZXj1LAqsINiByWCOT36a0PVFc6CGKQjwoGbXm9Y_yJA3y8CN34spZiL72M1gq0Dmy8FjxPzOq56nv48zwPk76QspQMKXqiE7RCofpu8Nk/s1600/IMG_2607.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legs smashed... </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWg3qw0PSGpquIXtY0OfDE-ZPEd7VauK-j7Uzp3hMtFHgaY6tv2mEzPNrhYgLFfo9j45fxUp9-ZM3YzmDuW0f4FT8jd_MgPitj5iHGsRxqFp9qW93VbUTrQAG47gQL1tIedLc5AF6HxRk/s1600/1912095_10153953528420004_7204001841968724738_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWg3qw0PSGpquIXtY0OfDE-ZPEd7VauK-j7Uzp3hMtFHgaY6tv2mEzPNrhYgLFfo9j45fxUp9-ZM3YzmDuW0f4FT8jd_MgPitj5iHGsRxqFp9qW93VbUTrQAG47gQL1tIedLc5AF6HxRk/s1600/1912095_10153953528420004_7204001841968724738_o.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big D & Lib hearing me out as I call it quits.. supportive as ever! </td></tr>
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<br />
At Eurobin, Jon told me Keating Ridge would just take 2 hours. God knows I was tempted. I would take 2.5 hours possibly. Told Buffalo official I needed 10mins to think about whether to DNF. Sat on the grass & rain started pouring.. SCTR crew all over me. So nice to see them. I love running in the rain. It was a terrible tease from the almighty. I was waiting for some invigoration from the rain.. it didn't come.<br />
<br />
Finally DNFed at 10:11mins. I was done for the day. The Buffalo won.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Lessons learnt? </b>Plenty! Like many other we entered this run blind, no idea of the terrain we're facing, no idea of the mental & physical capacity required etc.. here's some of my precious lessons learnt:<br />
<br />
<b>1) Nutrition </b>- we stuck to what we were comfy with, what we knew: mini-snickers, gels, trail mix,
some sushi rice, electrolytes.. on hindsight, the electrolytes could
have been too concentrated & needed to be more diluted. I believe that was the ultimate trigger for my
tummy upset after Eurobin (I had refilled my
electrolytes which were pre-prepared & it did taste more concentrated) &
I had possibly taken in too much calories, I feel I often make the
mistake of trying to take in too much... often causing discomfort to the
tummy. Naturally nutrition effects are very subjective, so for me now I
know I need to spread out calorie intake, & pack up enough for the
journey instead of eating extra at aid stations, ensure electrolytes are
diluted sufficiently or try brands that are easier on the tummy (eg. Heed)... need
to look into liquid fuel, smaller moist edibles like chomps, raisins,
anti-fatigue caps & even extra salt-tablets.. basically a more
serious approach is needed to nutrition planning. And more long hard
runs to test them with.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Gear </b>- putting on the
Buffalo vest I felt it was already a wrong move. Should have taken it
off straight after flag-off as planned.. it was retaining too much heat
& while I was doing OK climbing Mystic with it - it was getting too
much for Clear Spot onwards as the day got warmer. By the time I
reached Eurobin I was excessively sweaty. This must've accelerated my
eventual lethargy & system upset. ONLY stick to an
attire you know works for you.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Blisters</b> - I also had blister woes,
blisters has always been a major concern but thankfully with the switch
to Injinji socks & wider shoes, blister occurrence seem to have gone away during training runs. However
during the run, with damp Injinjis I still had blisters occuring.. so
definitely still put plenty of glide/blister bombers regardless. And stick to the thinner Injinjis for quick-dry effect.<br />
<br />
<b>4) Shoes</b> - this is more of a pre-race lesson learnt. Had major shoe woes
leading to the run, the Rapa Nuis were a poor fit for me (too small
&
narrow at toe box) & I knew I couldn't run in them for Buffalo, I
bought a pair of Fellraiser but it was causing discomfort to
my heel during climbs (not enough cushioning), I ended up running with a little known brand
Karrimor (bought in Malaysia) that surprisingly gave me the fit &
comfort I needed. I was
just thankful I had comfortable shoes to run with. More importantly the type of fitting I should be running with for long distances. <br />
<br />
<b>5) Scheduling</b> - I've also learnt that the plan to crew for each other was probably not very wise. While I did not want her to wait for me at the finishing, me tackling the dangerous run conditions towards the end could've affected her run the next day to some degree (whatmore if I got myself injured or lost). And even if I did finish, I would've been useless the next day crewing for her too. So I feel it did play in the mind as well this particular point.. we possibly need to tackle events on same day or allow sufficient time in between.<br />
<br />
<b>6) Mental Preparation</b> - on the point of thoughts playing in the mind, its been such an eye-opener for me & the wifey knowing now how much more mental-planning we needed to do for all the possible outcomes from a tough run. Going into it, we had general time targets but did not have similar 'mental targets' if you can call it that... following from my point above regarding scheduling, it links up to questions that we should've asked....<i> will I have mental reservations? am I truly ready to give it totally everything? what do I do when the DNF demons come visiting again? under what conditions will I pull-out?</i> etc etc.. yea we always put in our best effort but without personally experiencing our own mental limits we never would've really known the importance of breaking it down further & what it is to be really 'mentally-prepared'... well NOW WE DO! :D<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>So will I be back?</b><br />
<br />
Most probably?? DNF sure is a
terrible feeling to hold on to! (slowly easing though), maybe because I feel cheated by
my own lack of preparation, and I was gored & gutted by the Buffalo as a result. However now that I've had a taste of it, the 75k <i><b>is</b></i> definitely within reach. Will I feel differently after a
week? Don't know.. but looking at pictures, trying to re-live the
moments now, I do feel I have unfinished business with the Buffalo... I may be gored & gutted but the experience has also galvanized my resolve! <br />
<br />
Can't thank the wifey & SCTR enough for crewing & cheering me on while I was out there. Can't believe I made Vons & Alexa swap out all the trail mix to just raisins and cranberries :D... You'll want a team like that if you're thinking of tackling the Buffalo.. :) I am also very happy for the SCTR runners (Chris, Tim, Isaac, Ron, Matt, Siqi, Alexa, Anthony, Vons) who completed the run successfully, there's much to learn from our strong runners & they continue to inspire me.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading folks, I hope this has given you sufficient motivation to take on Buffalo Stampede 2015! Golden last words would be - 'Don't be afraid of the big bad Buffalo, just be prepared for it!' and also 'Poles!' :D<br />
<br />
Meanwhile do check out <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/04/buffalo-stampede-sky-marathon.html" target="_blank">Vonsy's post on her Buffalo experience</a>.. we share similar sentiments on our thoughts on the race organisation which you can read all about in her post. The event has huge potential & here's to a more fantastic one next year.. <br />
<br />
Onward to the next run!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOtt2p6ii2uC3C4qoT5VtWniF98wtwh1mvboUXRjyOU24e8nLdvkN-PaFaKvGUsazvR-bLLviVah0R3CuhnAGxSw4b1jRKlVdcUhYGlcGzm-_25N4EnNNTtbcR7cotwct-Z1xgBtUQRY/s1600/1926224_10152104784261220_755477017549232116_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOtt2p6ii2uC3C4qoT5VtWniF98wtwh1mvboUXRjyOU24e8nLdvkN-PaFaKvGUsazvR-bLLviVah0R3CuhnAGxSw4b1jRKlVdcUhYGlcGzm-_25N4EnNNTtbcR7cotwct-Z1xgBtUQRY/s1600/1926224_10152104784261220_755477017549232116_o.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Must continue from this moment again in my comeback.. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Photo credit to Vonsy, Ian Hoad, Claire, Libby & Dion</i></div>
bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com6Bright VIC 3741, Australia-36.7301986 146.96089559999996-36.9338896 146.63817209999996 -36.5265076 147.28361909999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-61796051942165521592014-02-01T17:10:00.001+11:002014-02-01T17:40:16.939+11:00Marooned in Maroondah<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Thought I share what we went through trying to the recce the upcoming Maroondah trail run by Trails+ :)<br />
<br />
If you were extremely diligent with your research, I suppose you would've avoided the few scratch-head moments we went through on the trail.. I couldn't find a great mount of detail from Parks Victoria for this particular region of Maroondah - decided to just set off armed with the route print-out & some info gathered from Google Map..<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBYME4eVNihIcem1UcRK1abo1XZAc2ayWU8lZR8q57k4oyLIj4PgIFgUwdkxthJYXrlI8M6yHhM7SUIVww4fGTMmzUtFKgST9ggHMLLDCiOJcYUOZLD_Q3NmIOs4APDBPuu3ZgjoR1Vw/s1600/PastyMadeMD-map12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBYME4eVNihIcem1UcRK1abo1XZAc2ayWU8lZR8q57k4oyLIj4PgIFgUwdkxthJYXrlI8M6yHhM7SUIVww4fGTMmzUtFKgST9ggHMLLDCiOJcYUOZLD_Q3NmIOs4APDBPuu3ZgjoR1Vw/s1600/PastyMadeMD-map12.jpg" height="281" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Maroondah trail run by Trails+</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Well to start off - we decided to just check out the 2nd half of the Maroondah Trail run, ie. the descent/ascent between the reservoir and Mt St Leonards - a return climb from Maroondah dam would be around 30k & that was the plan.. so our plan was to go backwards along the trail run route before U-turning at Mt St Leonards summit.<br />
<br />
Coming from Maroondah main car-park - to get on the official trail run route - just head to the dam wall, and keep going. You will see signs turning out to Maroondah Lookout, and a forest trail back to the car-park. Just stick to the main trail.<br />
<br />
Alternative way is via Hendersons Hill route - which isn't as straightforward to find coming from the car-park (but was the one we ended up taking).. regardless both ways will get you onto the next important 3 way junction.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPE4RzvJmXEIirdPCQo2_knvQ9YoaOzdpPNgDS1q2uFLY_EUShFW-TUIfCNYntKoGiUqSd2c-WJr6X1gQmWH-M2A7dS4emcS211nYWPzUqTysOqB1BlKMT0Frc0ixkJjyTo-ehA0FF-dI/s1600/PastyMadeMD-map12-edit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPE4RzvJmXEIirdPCQo2_knvQ9YoaOzdpPNgDS1q2uFLY_EUShFW-TUIfCNYntKoGiUqSd2c-WJr6X1gQmWH-M2A7dS4emcS211nYWPzUqTysOqB1BlKMT0Frc0ixkJjyTo-ehA0FF-dI/s1600/PastyMadeMD-map12-edit1.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 3-way junction on the official run map</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJOH4bYnNPCJrSDVHBG0TrknRBZTbsDTneBzNul6DY6Dsh9XYELOFg0JDN5wEoWkrHi8w2zfXTxIPJEZGCVLGuDzMs25xrxLw9wW37tCal_-MHxBf7wk83gggCoMJBZwuQa3X0iOSVns/s1600/PastyMadeMD-map12-edit3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJOH4bYnNPCJrSDVHBG0TrknRBZTbsDTneBzNul6DY6Dsh9XYELOFg0JDN5wEoWkrHi8w2zfXTxIPJEZGCVLGuDzMs25xrxLw9wW37tCal_-MHxBf7wk83gggCoMJBZwuQa3X0iOSVns/s1600/PastyMadeMD-map12-edit3.jpg" height="220" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Echo tunnel is what you want</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTi_UgNrXaaA2NKYdCLabNxl6P3QsC73n4JdBvtDecioDhsVJuaMuGD2Qa2KGvj6fHJwdZnjNJAoYFDzjdmquy-o1qYkrr__xslHq-_YPvxLg6akkSPhjJEhBSt1LhqDD4OnUTTwl9ifE/s1600/P1030117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTi_UgNrXaaA2NKYdCLabNxl6P3QsC73n4JdBvtDecioDhsVJuaMuGD2Qa2KGvj6fHJwdZnjNJAoYFDzjdmquy-o1qYkrr__xslHq-_YPvxLg6akkSPhjJEhBSt1LhqDD4OnUTTwl9ifE/s1600/P1030117.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How it really looks at ground zero.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Coming from the Maroondah park, you're presented with Condons Walk Track & Echo Tunnel route at a 3-way junction.. the CORRECT way we should've taken was to follow Echo Tunnel (there's no indication that it leads to Mt St Leonard summit (or Donnellys Weir)).<br />
<br />
We ended up taking the wrong way Condons Walk Track - because the trail sign indicated that it leads to Mt St Leonard (& Mt Monda). It was kinda confusing. They both lead to Mt St Leonard except it's a bigger & bushier/slower way via Condons Walk Track.. there's no route info also so we had no idea what kinda walk we were getting ourselves into.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqT-MXcplInf1j5dTggumnqG-KD3gQ4np0a5xnD8GJOvMGtUIyk4n5SPF1Pa4H1gSzgvhkEl6nIJbOhEGJyPgX9M5XJYvwLVqoJHXus33WC9PbFXeWx_IrYagGBx_BfkLdCFnwI5u374/s1600/P1030062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqT-MXcplInf1j5dTggumnqG-KD3gQ4np0a5xnD8GJOvMGtUIyk4n5SPF1Pa4H1gSzgvhkEl6nIJbOhEGJyPgX9M5XJYvwLVqoJHXus33WC9PbFXeWx_IrYagGBx_BfkLdCFnwI5u374/s1600/P1030062.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOC6s_VrZwFiZxYZAb5FFvcUz08Wtkx8JHrizXZsIT3ckJmAWxiBJwFRtlLrgwm14_J8l1KjFeZ39bGtXIZFuJsGUgq2oXo2EIZzfOTjnuUQ7EB1TmHqwKcWPm55nQqbZkAWW_vIIU6k/s1600/P1030080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOC6s_VrZwFiZxYZAb5FFvcUz08Wtkx8JHrizXZsIT3ckJmAWxiBJwFRtlLrgwm14_J8l1KjFeZ39bGtXIZFuJsGUgq2oXo2EIZzfOTjnuUQ7EB1TmHqwKcWPm55nQqbZkAWW_vIIU6k/s1600/P1030080.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Condons Walk Track is for hikers, not runners.. VERY BUSHY</td></tr>
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If you intend to hike Condons Walk Track, you will see a few no-entry trails meant for Park authorities only along the way. And after a very long bushy mushy climb, you would come to the end of Condons Walk Track & out to a junction to Monda Road. At this junction - it's sign-posted - head left towards Mt St Leonard, or right towards Mt Monda. If you're doing the Maroondah trail run, as you run along Monda Rd you will hit this junction as well - just that you may miss it (not exactly next to the main Monda Rd)....<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGA4Mf96zA_TQ4Rc9gAYRB-ovtPlGhBhS9edraiKjOUk717r7u5Pf8VQpM47kA9zTNEiSqahrddIxqAt2AmiQVm-fzFInywdqvqFeas_1SpRlOsFtwS2t5WbvtMGxVWhpEhWc5YcCXvuk/s1600/P1030095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGA4Mf96zA_TQ4Rc9gAYRB-ovtPlGhBhS9edraiKjOUk717r7u5Pf8VQpM47kA9zTNEiSqahrddIxqAt2AmiQVm-fzFInywdqvqFeas_1SpRlOsFtwS2t5WbvtMGxVWhpEhWc5YcCXvuk/s1600/P1030095.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out from Condons Walk Track, another short section to run<br />
before you eventually see the gates linking to Monda Road</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Anyway we ended up doing this loop (anti clockwise):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-EwsT28zOOHOMrNtpDjdLU4x9oa5noZKHwfFbjEEyG4DrM0n1Kr-HVGlmTpolxANNirxLDlnq8tbZMuwSh48mnT2mlhZ_vbCWF4ct8UL4n-GpYdHjzGAT_vP9yZ-FcK8NzMM0ZATjt4/s1600/map.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-EwsT28zOOHOMrNtpDjdLU4x9oa5noZKHwfFbjEEyG4DrM0n1Kr-HVGlmTpolxANNirxLDlnq8tbZMuwSh48mnT2mlhZ_vbCWF4ct8UL4n-GpYdHjzGAT_vP9yZ-FcK8NzMM0ZATjt4/s1600/map.png" height="640" width="385" /></a></div>
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And as we neared the summit of Mt St Leonard, we stuck to the main Monda gravel road instead of ascending up the summit. If you're taking Monda Road to descend as we have, remember to turn into Road 11 when you see it show up on your left..<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zfr5y7hsDnjxawxrTYS3HzLR5zYrU0Dp4qtjPm2qsxfWzbYGUDrfTOiBbDwfXHfkfrE4rnV1JzHT0w7l4p_ryxhjNk-SqC9-mcrySU_XqaAbQpupcMdVhH5WzDSxVYhBKNzSX3FmBXg/s1600/PastyMadeMD-map12-edit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zfr5y7hsDnjxawxrTYS3HzLR5zYrU0Dp4qtjPm2qsxfWzbYGUDrfTOiBbDwfXHfkfrE4rnV1JzHT0w7l4p_ryxhjNk-SqC9-mcrySU_XqaAbQpupcMdVhH5WzDSxVYhBKNzSX3FmBXg/s1600/PastyMadeMD-map12-edit2.jpg" height="371" width="400" /></a></div>
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Going along Road 11, eventually you will meet the trail to the summit again (from the south) per below picture.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd-QjuVh1vXzEj0esPwFBqJryV7CvPBIee70w1tl1r9wmJd8xBbU93XuQBcMk4udw9xJJxAy7Ao1smtq1EQWkQniOeobrEaoitQfbdNmcrJFqyYIuIDHmFum_MCWf5LTDEK50dp2qiI24/s1600/P1030101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd-QjuVh1vXzEj0esPwFBqJryV7CvPBIee70w1tl1r9wmJd8xBbU93XuQBcMk4udw9xJJxAy7Ao1smtq1EQWkQniOeobrEaoitQfbdNmcrJFqyYIuIDHmFum_MCWf5LTDEK50dp2qiI24/s1600/P1030101.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how it looks.. Road 11 on the left, trail to summit on the right.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_WFZqzP0QWo-oySDx4U3M07x0WUbvGI-XEtnke2MkeAZgZKJOgqZgc5BNzVCGaj5Ox3MCZH23TP5BEek6VKndEg4DmPNVprrKpoRzGrZkqRKOgu8KBvpPNAduzFl0v4CrdAyzUdw79c/s1600/P1030102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_WFZqzP0QWo-oySDx4U3M07x0WUbvGI-XEtnke2MkeAZgZKJOgqZgc5BNzVCGaj5Ox3MCZH23TP5BEek6VKndEg4DmPNVprrKpoRzGrZkqRKOgu8KBvpPNAduzFl0v4CrdAyzUdw79c/s1600/P1030102.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you see this you're on the right track.. </td></tr>
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You are still on Road 11 as you leave this junction & continue the descent, it's a long way down & there were a few parts of the trail that were overgrown with bushes & the trails were vague - but largely speaking there was only one big trail heading downhill & if you're unsure, just stick to the your left-most trail & keep heading downhill..<br />
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At some point Road 11 becomes the Bicentennial National Trail but there's really no way of telling because it isn't sign-posted or anything (except the trail starts to bear a bit to the left). Continue your descent & eventually you will hit a sharp left turn & would be on your way towards Donnellys Weir. From Donnellys Weir it is less than 2km back to the 3-way junction via Echo Tunnel route.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadLTXuj6zmjpyfjEnoRfXkllA0fdBxhm2XEOAiy_HOtd-RMLB_DTAWlDhulJOrDq7syDbdhAKEv8QF_A4aYCNPReyxDOeEc_ste7w34nLROnbCm5nK3PMVL2kQX973iV32xrV848Hq7M/s1600/P1030104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadLTXuj6zmjpyfjEnoRfXkllA0fdBxhm2XEOAiy_HOtd-RMLB_DTAWlDhulJOrDq7syDbdhAKEv8QF_A4aYCNPReyxDOeEc_ste7w34nLROnbCm5nK3PMVL2kQX973iV32xrV848Hq7M/s1600/P1030104.jpg" height="255" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Somewhere along Bicentennial National Trail.. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigq460rnnNcIZDXgOJtbpz5omsZUNwwdESo_ha4xZdEI08Xylm5HTGL7MqUwfg73GKt9O4uwWGeKUs4KzZ13xaXSOtlh85Au8Ih05jaU9aa5txURC8B52Ql9Y1_BOFqXARFplidpKP-A/s1600/P1030113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigq460rnnNcIZDXgOJtbpz5omsZUNwwdESo_ha4xZdEI08Xylm5HTGL7MqUwfg73GKt9O4uwWGeKUs4KzZ13xaXSOtlh85Au8Ih05jaU9aa5txURC8B52Ql9Y1_BOFqXARFplidpKP-A/s1600/P1030113.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You will see this aqueduct between Donnellys Weir & Echo Tunnel</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J4TKanwsKRdp2CDN0LGEvaWhHW3QVAWCIv3tKBGCA-rJoRPL5wugmMd33YmQn0zcoaRHUKpHxM7_RKwgZtAEp1o_26n0m9KgqpkmotteRhyo4KSQl0JI6H8krkXL9ZL1N9OuirYw614/s1600/P1030116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J4TKanwsKRdp2CDN0LGEvaWhHW3QVAWCIv3tKBGCA-rJoRPL5wugmMd33YmQn0zcoaRHUKpHxM7_RKwgZtAEp1o_26n0m9KgqpkmotteRhyo4KSQl0JI6H8krkXL9ZL1N9OuirYw614/s1600/P1030116.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Echo Tunnel.. it really does Echo! After this you will be back in familiar <br />
territory of the 3-way junction.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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OK folks - hope that's sufficient info to help if you're off doing your own recce or just visiting this part of Maroondah for a hike, get out there & happy running/hiking!<br />
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-14960608451570996152014-01-21T09:29:00.000+11:002014-01-21T09:30:08.476+11:00Hill Training<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Info source: Runnersworld UK</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/general/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hill-training/159.html"><b>http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/general/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hill-training/159.html</b></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b class="xhead4">Going Up</b><br />
<br />
It is the moment all runners dread. You turn the corner and right in
front of you is a big, imposing hill. But don’t wince, focus. Shift
gears both mentally and physically and prepare to attack the hill; don’t
let it attack you. Running hills well is all about rhythm; if you let
the hill break up your rhythm you will slow dramatically. But if you
make the proper adjustments and maintain your cadence you’ll make
molehills out of the mountains. Here’s how:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>As you start uphill, shorten your stride. Don’t try to maintain the pace you were running on the flat.
</li>
<li>You are aiming for equal effort going up as well as down, not
equal pace. Trying to maintain the pace you were running on the flat
will leave you exhausted later in the race or session.
</li>
<li>Take ‘baby steps’ if necessary and try to keep the same turnover rhythm that you had on the flat ground.
</li>
<li>Your posture should be upright – don’t lean forward or back –
your head, shoulders and back should form a straight line over the feet.
Keep your feet low to the ground.
</li>
<li>If your breathing begins to quicken it means that you’re either
going too fast, over-striding or bounding too far off the ground as you
run.
</li>
<li>Use a light, ankle-flicking push-off with each step, not an
explosive motion, which will waste energy. If the hill is long or the
gradient increases, keep shortening your stride to maintain a smooth and
efficient breathing pattern. If the gradient decreases, extend your
stride again. Try to maintain the same steady effort and breathing
throughout.
</li>
<li>In a race, or when you’re training on a undulating course, run
through the top of the hill. Don’t crest the hill and immediately slow
down or pull back on your effort.
</li>
<li>Accelerate gradually into the downhill.
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b class="xhead4">Coming Down </b><br />
<br />
Most runners make one or two obvious mistakes when running downhill.
They either sprint, which causes severe muscle soreness later on, or
they’re so hesitant to surrender to gravity that they’re constantly
braking, which fatigues the quadriceps
muscles. The optimum pace is somewhere in between. Try not to let your
feet slap on the ground when you are running downhill. Step lightly and
don’t reach out with your feet. Slapping can be a sign of weak muscles
in the shin area, in which case you need to strengthen them. To help
your downhill technique, follow these simple tips:
<br />
<ul>
<li>Try to visualise gravity pulling you down the hill.
</li>
<li>Try to maintain an upright body posture, keeping your torso perpendicular to the horizontal.
</li>
<li>Keep your feet close to the ground for maximum control, and land lightly.
</li>
<li>As you increase your pace, emphasise quicker turnover rather
than longer strides, though your strides can be slightly longer than
normal.
</li>
<li>The key to efficient downhill running is to stay in control.
When you start, keep your stride slightly shortened and let your
turnover increase. When you feel in control, gradually lengthen your
stride.
</li>
<li>If you start to run out of control when descending, shorten your stride until you feel you are back in control again.
</li>
</ul>
</div>
bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-85037678761786648092014-01-18T14:21:00.002+11:002014-01-25T15:45:00.121+11:00Two Bays Trail Run 2014 - Pushing Beyond Blisters!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
<b>Yea damn blisters! the toes were clearly in unfamiliar territory crossing the 50k mark, plasters started falling apart, blisters started forming etc.. still just an ultra rookie :)</b><br />
<br />
Anyway it was worth all the pain...<br />
<br />
Reasons? GREAT organisation, just like Rollercoaster, you really do see how much effort has been put in, the volunteers keeping the carnival atmosphere going & no doubt the presence of friends who were there to share the pain & joy of the course.. the scenery actually became secondary, I mean it was a nice route & all, but it served to just complement what already was a great event. So now I understand why Two Bays came highly recommended.. very glad we signed up.<br />
<br />
<b>Preparation </b><br />
<br />
We didn't have Two Bays in our radar until early December.. I couldn't even quite qualify to do the 56k last year (only the 28k)! so it was all a bit here-there-everywhere in terms of preparation & my legs only started really twitching in the final days leading up to the run.<br />
<br />
It didn't help that I got myself injured 1.5 weeks before run-day, having pushed a bit too hard while training with the wifey in the Dandenongs (we had a great run in the rain tho!) - the upper quads on the right leg was strained. It was going to be hit or miss for Two Bays at that point. Was definitely pretty worried, and could only just focus on recovery stretching recovery stretching recovery & praying for the best.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Training hard. we love running in wet & miserable rain!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Thanks to a miracle medicated plaster (that cost a bomb) my leg was actually back in action just after a few days (brand is Dencorub, check it out!) - out came the paper & pen it was back to studying the route & planning target times again.. anyway, I couldn't ask for more & had to be contented with going into the run without 1.5 weeks of scheduled training runs.<br />
<br />
<b>The 777 Plan </b><br />
<br />
Well I had target times for every <b>7</b>k but the general plan was to meet a <b>7</b>hr target - pushing for sub-<b>7</b> if possible. Try to get to half-way point 28k sub-3 hours and with as much spare time as possible given that the legs will definitely slow down beyond the 30k mark..<br />
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Nasty elevations? not crazy nasty I suppose - but an ultra should never be taken lightly regardless especially if one is pushing hard & doing it in an unfamiliar route.. and in my new-ish <a href="http://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/hoka-one-one-rapa-nui-trail-shoes-review.html" target="_blank">Rapa Nui</a> shoes too.<br />
<br />
Hydration would be 2 bottles - one water, one sports drink + electrolytes. Wasn't sure whether I was carrying too much given there were many aid stations - but I wasn't going to over-think it and with the 2 bottles I was confident I would always have enough water & electrolytes. Brought spare electrolytes tabs for when I would refill the sports drink bottle.<br />
<br />
Nutrition - I opted for the usual trail mix, gels, a mini snicker bar. Aid stations would have gels so I just packed only two - was feeling good about nutrition prep since the trail mix did me well during Razorback.<br />
<br />
Hawaiian costume - There was some FB discussion in the SCTR group about dressing up for the run (since the event organiser encouraged it!) - we went round to the $2 shop & just got flower garlands, couldn't possibly pull off the sexy grass skirt with my thunder thighs!.. hehe..<br />
<br />
<b>The Run</b><br />
<br />
Weather was overcast with a light breeze when we arrived at 6am at Cape Schank - perfect running conditions.. runners were all visibly happy about it.. it would be a day of record-smashing for the fast runners!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scene at 6am.. promising weather for the day! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Met up with the SCTR crew - all raring to go! (Photo credit: Jon Lim's iPhone)</td></tr>
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<br />
Our flower garlands were comprehensively outdone by the crazy Wombat boys Isaac & Tim, who not only signed up at the very last min but came in full glory of grass skirts, flower bras & all.. characters! :D Few of us were still shy but anyway it was hilarious coz we were amongst such serious runners that it was obvious only a handful of runners were in costumes of some kind. It was good to know that the SCTR group not only had running talents but more importantly a great sense of humour :)<br />
<br />
<b>0-28k (3:00) - </b>Soon after we were flagged off, we were on single trails & it was funny that after no more than a few mins of running, we had to stop coz there was a massive traffic jam at the park entrance.. ! so much for the adrenalin start! anyway this first stretch was pretty much keeping a steady pace & staring at the bum of the runner in front of me.. :)<br />
<br />
The trail started to open up a bit more after 10k, & managed to pick-up some pace. It was quite worrying because I felt that I was already pushing kinda hard & didn't build up much spare from targets every 7k.. I had even skipped all the aid stations (I still had plenty of water thanks to the weather)... but I could only keep going & see how things transpire.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was somewhere between 10-15k? (Photo credit: Andrew O'Brien)</td></tr>
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<br />
We had great kids from the neighbourhood hi-fiving us & spraying water just before the 21k mark it was really nice.. glad they were having as much fun as we were!<br />
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Generally I was feeling good & moving well - slightly worried that I was pushing too hard & not leaving enough gas for the 2nd half. But I wasn't hitting the target times with much spare time either so I just stayed with my pace. I finally reached the 28k mark around 2:57 hours.. rung the bell with only few mins shy of the 3:00 target..<br />
<br />
<b>28-35k (4:10) - </b>The climb back up to Arthurs Seat was expectedly tough I could only walk most of it. Wished I could follow some of the runners who had the legs to run up the hills but I knew if I did that I was gonna just kill myself. Bumped into the wifey on the way up & instead of a sweaty loving hug, we took pics of each other haha.. nonetheless was very happy she was looking strong mentally & physically.<br />
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<br />
I remained on target when I hit 35k but signs of toe crush was starting to develop after the quick descent from Arthurs Seat.. started to mutter to myself, not sure what exactly but I could tell I was mentally & physically getting beaten up - not just by the toes' discomfort, but with the day getting warmer & my legs were feeling more lethargic. I was sweating a lot & needed to rehydrate more..<br />
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<br />
<b>35-42k (5:20) </b>- Surprisingly I did faster than anticipated for this stretch & got myself some 20mins of buffer when I reached 42k. Somehow I had become numb to the soreness of the toes but could feel the sun much more by now... my mouth was constantly craving water water water.. I poured water over my head to cool down at the 42k water station, drank my fill & refilled the water bottle to the max - I could see runners before me doing the same, <i>it was going to be a very tough stretch ahead!</i><br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo credit: Benjamin Fox / fstop5)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo credit: Benjamin Fox / fstop5)</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>42-49k (6:10)</b> - Eating more of my trail mix, it was getting dry & hard to swallow, but I needed fuel every 20mins so I just kept munching bit by bit. The tummy was also getting a bit upset from too much sports drink + electrolytes. My body just wanted water. True enough the 42-45k was the toughest 3k stretch for me. I was tired & without a single runner in sight, I remember seeing a big kangaroo hopping away, & the backside of an echinda crossing our trail.. they reminded me to take a moment to enjoy the serenity (not like I could go any faster anyway!)<br />
<br />
Fortunately at 45k the trail started going downhill.. like a stuttering stalled engine of a car, I was able to make use of the downhill to jump-start my dying engine - popping in a few more jellybeans, <i>I could feel my 2nd wave is arriving</i>. I remember thinking runners would be loving this event for this particular stretch as well - that the 45-49k gentle downhill stretch was really helpful & invigorating!<br />
<br />
<b>49-56k (7:00)</b> - All was going perfect after the last aid-station & I was really cruising.. feeling great I was well on target to hit a good sub-7! The view was opening up too towards Cape Schank.. kangaroos were hopping in a distance & it was just magical (I was probably a bit delirious too)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello curious ones! Keep hopping & don't come after me!</td></tr>
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<b><br /></b>
<b>AND THEN DISASTER .. </b>as this cruel life would often have it, my joy was short-lived when a sudden sharp pain emerged from my right foot at the 52k mark - it was my little last toe. I had to stop & check.... it was bad. The entire little toe was a giant throbbing blister!! The plaster I had taped over it had come loose & was not providing any protection at all for god knows how long.. I searched my pack & cursed at myself - I had forgotten to bring the Elastoplast. GREAT!<br />
<br />
So making use of whatever tattered plaster is left, I tried my best to cover up the blister but to not much avail.. I was in real sharp pain & couldn't really run fast.. I was still hobbling along when at least half a dozen of runners came running pass me.. oh man.. after running 52k all the effort was going down the drain, GREAT!<br />
<br />
Feeling frustrated I just kept moving. At that point my big left toe started blistering too (I wasn't running naturally). <i><b>I will not get defeated by the last 4k!</b></i> - and certainly not by some blister on some little toe.. But the fact was I couldn't run properly, my foot placement was all awkward, the last 4k was just horrid. I tried to bring my mind far-away from the pain & just focused on staying with the two runners in front of me.<br />
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But with every sharp pain it jolted me back to reality. I was pre-occupied with fighting these mini-battles all the way to the very end.. the last 4k easily became the longest stretch on the course.. I swear I could've cried when I finally saw the finishing line.. :)<br />
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THE JOYS OF ULTRA eh??<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJT3AkhcHjBuo8dtxXazCoVXwZc98XIU7SfjgqQuSaXfSOQW1cJYC_DWyhvBoJ_QpZaxk3ktUVly1j3Ux7oDhjW-A_wiQmtfZ8cZ_u7XFrttN28DY60Rc2aR0rb2QjS2hDe-Pts6kU_M/s1600/m-0513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJT3AkhcHjBuo8dtxXazCoVXwZc98XIU7SfjgqQuSaXfSOQW1cJYC_DWyhvBoJ_QpZaxk3ktUVly1j3Ux7oDhjW-A_wiQmtfZ8cZ_u7XFrttN28DY60Rc2aR0rb2QjS2hDe-Pts6kU_M/s1600/m-0513.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keeping it together - lucky to still have a sub-7!!! (Photo credit: Steve Taylor / fstop5)</td></tr>
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Unfortunately I missed the wife crossing the line! Was still hobbling back from the car when the announcer mentioned her bib number... but what a champ she has been, smiling all the way, yakking to all the volunteers, glad she had fun & what a beautiful strong finish.. good on ya Wifey! :D</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8Lc2P82XGZyP_YHL_PvMVhTeOBxx3sAjzi3TlDUHKgjzf5m9J7c87LutwU4FaZ1v6CCkXG4ZM0fQ4XUt72SXCdR8ZsfiJgjuwbg1qeCEW8x4QpJZtOfpDKIDFnVS8Poug5i4YzEM72I/s1600/m-0636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8Lc2P82XGZyP_YHL_PvMVhTeOBxx3sAjzi3TlDUHKgjzf5m9J7c87LutwU4FaZ1v6CCkXG4ZM0fQ4XUt72SXCdR8ZsfiJgjuwbg1qeCEW8x4QpJZtOfpDKIDFnVS8Poug5i4YzEM72I/s1600/m-0636.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo credit: Steve Taylor / fstop5 )</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnKnFAGoFzHOIuntBpnq5GsE0lFG12kAhWh3mHPF0-5vXFvMwKZlYmuudE5uZxc33C09dF2hxDjG_kJ11t4mGA8OjRiLLuabadOmiMJNBQaoZFsg4A7Kjw0a2-dpIV-kCaMhOGu-6B_U/s1600/1521220_10151957878591220_1070772716_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnKnFAGoFzHOIuntBpnq5GsE0lFG12kAhWh3mHPF0-5vXFvMwKZlYmuudE5uZxc33C09dF2hxDjG_kJ11t4mGA8OjRiLLuabadOmiMJNBQaoZFsg4A7Kjw0a2-dpIV-kCaMhOGu-6B_U/s1600/1521220_10151957878591220_1070772716_n.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-run chill out & making new friends.. :)</td></tr>
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<b>Race Summary</b><br />
<br />
What went well<br />
1) Carrying water bottles = did not have to stop at every aid station..<br />
2) Nutrition = had enough when I needed it..<br />
3) Target times for every 7k was pretty spot on<br />
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What didn't go well<br />
1) BLISTERS & chafings, not enough plasters / glide for toes / other parts of body<br />
2) Did not pack Elastoplast - must always pack this!<br />
3) <a href="http://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/hoka-one-one-rapa-nui-trail-shoes-review.html" target="_blank">Hoka Rapa Nui</a> toe box - still tight, downhill was killing my toes.. need to do something about this<br />
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I suppose it was the ultra rookie mistake not being prepared enough for chafing & blisters - especially running with the new-ish Hokas.. nonetheless was very happy the legs were holding up well, ITBs were a little tight but I stretched whenever I had a break & they did not really trouble..<br />
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<b>All in all Two Bays 2014 was a fab event</b> - we absolutely enjoyed ourselves! The carnival atmosphere, the weather was great & people still lingering around after the 8 hours cut-off supporting the final finishers. It was just a very positive vibe throughout... truly double thumbs up & all bruised & blistered toes up for Rohan & his team!<br />
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(And not just because they take nice pics of us in action... all for free!) <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bineus/media_set?set=a.10151956085901220.1073741836.722541219&type=3" target="_blank">More pics here</a><br />
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Once again, thanks for reading folks.. if you have doubts about signing up for Two Bays next year, I hope this post has helped erase those doubts :)<br />
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Have a great 2014 & keep running!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDvQdRg0RaFR8TYNw1_zZnWXzjagcHrDOzQ6SwGa33osjAcaFUDbjMbT3oAsnKGIvS6u_B9iHBmuVt1xtaek5MkNUquKOhfGF_6RnRDKYGIA62EZCDEYt6eA3926j2R1W_HMtMlmaQ_E/s1600/h-353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDvQdRg0RaFR8TYNw1_zZnWXzjagcHrDOzQ6SwGa33osjAcaFUDbjMbT3oAsnKGIvS6u_B9iHBmuVt1xtaek5MkNUquKOhfGF_6RnRDKYGIA62EZCDEYt6eA3926j2R1W_HMtMlmaQ_E/s1600/h-353.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo credit: Benjamin Fox / fstop5)</td></tr>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-7099408723201801732013-12-22T12:52:00.002+11:002015-05-25T22:07:01.093+10:00Hoka One One - Rapa Nui Trail Shoes Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've subjected my poor new Rapas to 2 gruelling technical runs to date.. might have been a bit too technical for what the Rapas are optimised for as it has already suffered some terrible battle scars.<br />
<br />
Last weekend's Wild Wombat Fat Ass 30 at Lerderderg State National Park was highly technical at certain sections, and while it's painful to see your new shoes being scratched, ripped, shredded, crushed, drowned & pounded by unforgiving rocks, it did push the Rapas to its limits & gave me a very good insight into the world of Hokas.. on that note there are plenty of good reviews out there by more experienced runners and I hope to add my 2 cents here..<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1KOAbCiqfxdgfJCtnMN5s2CDkzZG68alrhsIwL421p5GNqvgA1bxBPacHysKFrGLQpe6eomn7CtcXrinHmpiSwOuF3IhjIWm2JRWqWkPT7klI9Eft7tKsRuINAdwxXa0s8DZJbHzl9E/s1600/P1010013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1KOAbCiqfxdgfJCtnMN5s2CDkzZG68alrhsIwL421p5GNqvgA1bxBPacHysKFrGLQpe6eomn7CtcXrinHmpiSwOuF3IhjIWm2JRWqWkPT7klI9Eft7tKsRuINAdwxXa0s8DZJbHzl9E/s640/P1010013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rapas vs Lerderderg.. bring it on</td></tr>
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<b>What I'm crazy about:</b><br />
<br />
1) Well.. what else.. the massive cushioning.. :)<br />
<br />
Can't say how this compares to the other Hokas in terms of cushioning, but the cushioning has helped tremendously when I wanted to go faster during technical descents, as soon as you realise how much comfort & buffer it provides - your confidence will go up & your legs will be going faster! So whatever Hoka has described on their website in terms of cushioning they have delivered for sure. I can imagine how the bigger boys (ie. Mafate, Stinson) with even thicker cushioning will allow you to crush on whatever the trail throws at you.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIS0WwXgrwzNvZFc1Uv9EevlMtQlGRXYHjxlxN-gwtnCPHTCbS2jGHKvyrFPv-etOcy7OgGLg4LvBeXORimd2nzjhgUhbNQORDwUDkfCk5HqrVKq73y0UguobIdAT5ECO_t9OWFwsHhNE/s1600/P1020893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIS0WwXgrwzNvZFc1Uv9EevlMtQlGRXYHjxlxN-gwtnCPHTCbS2jGHKvyrFPv-etOcy7OgGLg4LvBeXORimd2nzjhgUhbNQORDwUDkfCk5HqrVKq73y0UguobIdAT5ECO_t9OWFwsHhNE/s400/P1020893.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big bad cushioning.. nice & wide</td></tr>
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2) Weight = 275g (UK 8)<br />
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Not going to put these shoes on the weighing scale to verify its weight but the Rapa's light weight is obvious as soon as you pick it up. Having worn the hefty <a href="http://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com.au/2013/01/salomon-xa-pro-3d-ultra-2-product-review.html" target="_blank">Salomon XA Pro 3D Ultra 2</a> for almost a year now, the Rapas were a very nice change. However Rapa's upper construction is simple & uses light materials and as a result does come at a compromise to things like toe area protection & general layers of material across the shoe (see pic below, compared to the Salomon XT Wings). Having said that it has maintained good breathability which is important.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijds2Xi_-l8ghZAlMX5A91owRiiLjj8dMseulue_eHb-ZYI2OfkPTp8gKI73B5mOq6PpOaL78cEkvg7UM4Jj9QjgrN-JXtn0nK6JqAigA5J8l3tUtu3wrO5bGQU1r3nuXHUeEAKRBwEPA/s1600/P1020895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijds2Xi_-l8ghZAlMX5A91owRiiLjj8dMseulue_eHb-ZYI2OfkPTp8gKI73B5mOq6PpOaL78cEkvg7UM4Jj9QjgrN-JXtn0nK6JqAigA5J8l3tUtu3wrO5bGQU1r3nuXHUeEAKRBwEPA/s400/P1020895.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Play nice guys.. </td></tr>
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<b>What I'm not crazy about:</b><br />
<br />
1) Design - Upper<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ288X-po-ET5qlsvNANEf6QSnKWAF21kEoAntIn4I-sDiMBJM7rhrN_HmtUFlgOs7c1Gh_zo8DTL8NCWpEUjT-eE94zE0_B6ny-8fNrsiqDJJ5W-DPMJb2akafH2O6PW7A7Y-jC_4d2g/s1600/P1020707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ288X-po-ET5qlsvNANEf6QSnKWAF21kEoAntIn4I-sDiMBJM7rhrN_HmtUFlgOs7c1Gh_zo8DTL8NCWpEUjT-eE94zE0_B6ny-8fNrsiqDJJ5W-DPMJb2akafH2O6PW7A7Y-jC_4d2g/s320/P1020707.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaner days.. </td></tr>
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I gotta come clean.. I'm not a big fan of the general upper design of the Hokas (not just the Rapas). The two elastic strap that allows you to tuck in the lacing just doesn't work for me from an aesthetic point of view! If they were meant to contribute to how the shoe fits perhaps they needn't be shown at all (eg. built under the tongue).<br />
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And yea if they were meant to just hold the lacing well - there must be a better lacing design out there (ahem.. *cough.Salomon.cough cough*)<br />
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Having said that the side & back profile looks OK. Naturally this is just a personal take, I ain't no Jimmy Choo & designs are completely subjective to personal taste :)<br />
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And while I'm on it the color selection for Rapas in Australia <strike>sucks</strike> are so limited! They have much nicer color selections for the EU models.. why don't we have these Anthracite/Red/White ones?? I tried searching several EU websites but had no luck with sizing and out of retail therapy desperation settled for the ones I have now.. (OK maybe there's a bit of Jimmy Choo in me)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hokaoneone.eu/medias/medias/media_185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.hokaoneone.eu/medias/medias/media_185.jpg" height="170" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Hoka One one EU</td></tr>
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2) Heel grip & overall fit<br />
<br />
Hoka talks about 'bucket seat design' that helps with control & fit. While the midsole felt firm, my heel was sliding a bit from side to side as I went on the technical descents.. thicker socks could've helped I'm sure but the heel grip was certainly not as reassuring as my <a href="http://runningforthewongreason.blogspot.com.au/2013/01/salomon-xa-pro-3d-ultra-2-product-review.html" target="_blank">XA Pro Ultra 3D 2</a>.<br />
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And if you study closely Salomon shoes vs the Hokas, you can see how Salomon wraps around the foot & tucks into & under the sole especially in the midsole & heel area - which will no doubt minimize foot movement within the shoe & maximise control on the trails. Perhaps its very specific to one's foot how the overall fit is - but I think tightening the heel area is definitely one area Hoka should think about..<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY401KOYtQcQ4-oqgQNg0kPM5DDU3WJKTzUoMNRpd2xUD0Z6hzX6-UArrD6UbebAYP1jytPDAgBew_UFYai6THAfDJCaUnTCVwiWOYNRgABtA-n5gGdYpRMRg37b8cBYRXnOs8x1b3CQI/s1600/P1010030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY401KOYtQcQ4-oqgQNg0kPM5DDU3WJKTzUoMNRpd2xUD0Z6hzX6-UArrD6UbebAYP1jytPDAgBew_UFYai6THAfDJCaUnTCVwiWOYNRgABtA-n5gGdYpRMRg37b8cBYRXnOs8x1b3CQI/s400/P1010030.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rapas struggled a bit with the really tech descents..<br />
my heels kept sliding left & right.. </td></tr>
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<b>In summary:</b><br />
<br />
The Rapas will be great shoes for the door-to-trail & moderate technical trails especially if you're going for speed. I have subjected my Rapas to very technical trails to date and while they were fantastic with cushioning, I felt the lugs & outsole on the Rapas were OK but not aggressive enough (which I think for the Rapas is to be expected), but more importantly was the overall fit not being 'wrappy-happy' enough to minimize movement within the shoe & providing total 100% confidence going on the steep technical descents..<br />
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Good stuff:</div>
- Light & fast<br />
- Cushioning = very comfy<br />
- Breathable<br />
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Wish list:<br />
- Greater feeling of fit & control<br />
- Nicer upper design & material choice<br />
- Slightly more toe box protection<br />
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As I type this out & do more reading on the Rapas - I discover that they are now retailing Rapa Nui 2 in the US... mmmmm.. with what seemingly is a sturdier toe box protection! (I could be wrong - not much info found). So if you're thinking of buying, might want to wait a bit longer for the Rapa Nui 2 to be out.. check them out:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.boulderrunningcompany.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/500x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/b/r/brc-rapa-nui-trail-arch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.boulderrunningcompany.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/500x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/b/r/brc-rapa-nui-trail-arch.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Photo from Boulder Running Company</td></tr>
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As always thanks for reading folks - hope you enjoy your Hokas..!<br />
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Meanwhile here are more pictures of what my Rapas were subjected to..<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyl8UWL7h1v_CrYdBD-2vfL_zmXxD3nrren9-sEJLizbUEKFm8H7sB3EUgaQ6nqlHuZeZldwCfOsL7fZ-u9kC7wE0go5faiswxSW7sg-RzbnDX02hVXcAeUi8TDdB1knmLV6LTDwlZ7LI/s1600/P1010016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyl8UWL7h1v_CrYdBD-2vfL_zmXxD3nrren9-sEJLizbUEKFm8H7sB3EUgaQ6nqlHuZeZldwCfOsL7fZ-u9kC7wE0go5faiswxSW7sg-RzbnDX02hVXcAeUi8TDdB1knmLV6LTDwlZ7LI/s640/P1010016.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rapas were doing plenty fine on these fire trails.. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixf0iU0qO_CNyYi_s5om1APKnZGNIwYKZvZs_23JiwGTQbM-bYF6ZYWRfbv1mzqfqC09ocPxzjMpE2V1Qftxlix2A5kgCfw8JKXxH3laG-7IGVIWNLlbnmiLVNViq-t0v3ccLLD6vUK0o/s1600/P1010019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixf0iU0qO_CNyYi_s5om1APKnZGNIwYKZvZs_23JiwGTQbM-bYF6ZYWRfbv1mzqfqC09ocPxzjMpE2V1Qftxlix2A5kgCfw8JKXxH3laG-7IGVIWNLlbnmiLVNViq-t0v3ccLLD6vUK0o/s640/P1010019.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big cushioning meant I could move fast on the technical descents.. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rapas went for some swims.. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5x river crossings to be exact.. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging in there.. Rapas looking exhausted after day 1 in action!</td></tr>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-41163590989968352332013-12-08T13:31:00.000+11:002013-12-10T08:38:23.910+11:00Razorback Run 2013 - At Long Last...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I have been excited over this run since a year ago (I ended up doing the Mirabella Mt Buller Run instead last year)... how time has flown! A year ago when I did Mt Buller I was still settling into Melbourne, & stressed about things like what the future held for me & my wife etc.. Planning a trip to the mountains meant incurring some cost which at that point wasn't financially sound given I was still jobless, but I knew it was necessary in order to replenish my soul to keep the fight going (& to remind myself what I'm fighting for!). Now as I look back a year on, I'm STILL stressed (haha) but mainly over stupider things like work, but certainly more settled (& fatter - thanks to the wife).<br />
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And so visiting the Alpines again for the Razorback Run was a long awaited personal treat for myself. A meaningful milestone. I couldn't wait to see for myself the scenic vista that I first had a glance of in the Razorback Run's online flyer from last year. I chose to do the Mt Buller run instead because I chickened out a bit after reading it was a self-supported run & there were very little pictures/info online on what to expect (website has improved a lot since). I was also not very well equipped gear-wise back then. <br />
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Anyway, let's dive right in..<br />
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<b><u>Pre-planning/Pre-run briefing</u></b><br />
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The pre-run briefing & bib-collection was held the night before - I took the day off work in order to have a less stressful drive. We booked 2 nights accommodation at Snowline Motel because we referred to the website & the RD's event notes as to where the briefing was going to be held, but it was then changed to Hariettville Hotel eventually - so do pay attention to RD's email updates leading up to the event.<br />
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I believe there was also mention about gear-check during briefing (& so we & many others brought our gear) - but there was no gear-check after all (yes this is trivial I know but just to give you an idea that for this event info provided can change/inconsistent across website/email updates etc. - so once again just pay attention).<br />
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Run-briefing was casual & held in the hotel restaurant area with several runners having their dinner. Personally thought a projector should've been set up to talk through the route map visually (especially for people who has never been up the Alpines before). There was a lady who held up the map & asked several questions on the course & was clearly not feeling 100% confident on several points the RD mentioned about. And on hind-sight, the run did see several runners taking wrong turns etc..<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAUErkQhJeKv5JzWe4Y_BqUElqPzB3zV_vhgZDPMUrjCu0DgAlxC7fZDIcIxoWMQQPDfd-Og_UyPwF3A3hsE5SGSfwi7ZuX3TFZmnnFnNsrA-QuGUH_8cH77rxt7C3N19c9gT2ju_KUA/s1600/1478967_721271747900789_216808354_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAUErkQhJeKv5JzWe4Y_BqUElqPzB3zV_vhgZDPMUrjCu0DgAlxC7fZDIcIxoWMQQPDfd-Og_UyPwF3A3hsE5SGSfwi7ZuX3TFZmnnFnNsrA-QuGUH_8cH77rxt7C3N19c9gT2ju_KUA/s400/1478967_721271747900789_216808354_n.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pic courtesy of La Sportiva Mountain Series 13</td></tr>
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<b><u>Gear & Clothings</u></b><br />
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As repeatedly advised by the event info, the weather is prone to change from day-to-day for the Alpines, so best prepare for any type of weather. We packed clothings for both cold, windy & wet as well as hot & sunny. (We got sunny & wonderful weather on run-day but few days on, it was apparently pouring wet & cold & snowing up at Hotham!)<br />
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Gear wise, we prepared everything that was required of us in the mandatory kit list, and my UD vest was stuffed to the brim:<br />
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Easily few kilos in weight, it is good idea to train with your fully-loaded pack because it definitely made the run that much harder because we were not used to it. As for food - with just one aid-station (for our 42k), you will need plan & pack own food (& emergency food) accordingly.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here was my spread.. hehe</td></tr>
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<b><u>Bungalow Spur (0-10k)</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WQ138Jtl969OSM0zUxok4tI3a84JAWNBTm2P03Aq1Q5GWKDzF_Oc71tK_lYfrAQ-E_qiSkP0CuCbVJ2ojzOtXl5gVkF8CFauDj6UjT7cpQzDfYS9224Gw0G1xgDjBqDRnUq0fxN7S-w/s1600/P1020445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WQ138Jtl969OSM0zUxok4tI3a84JAWNBTm2P03Aq1Q5GWKDzF_Oc71tK_lYfrAQ-E_qiSkP0CuCbVJ2ojzOtXl5gVkF8CFauDj6UjT7cpQzDfYS9224Gw0G1xgDjBqDRnUq0fxN7S-w/s400/P1020445.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Runners were still trickling in 5 mins before 6am.. :)</td></tr>
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The run began on time at 6am, the run/hike up Bungalow Spur was hard-going because we were of course in a run-event & were pushing to move as fast as we could. Not surprisingly this is the hardest part of the run. Your heart will be pumping & whatever nerves you have before the run will be gone within the first 10mins :)<br />
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<b><u>Bungalow Spur - The Cross (10</u></b><b><u>-11k)</u></b><br />
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Eventually of course - your hard work will pay off & you will see the beautiful sight of Federation Hut marking the end of the Bungalow Spur slog & the heavenly views would open up before your eyes!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Federation Hut.. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Fed Hut & up towards Feathertop</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hills are friggin alive!!</td></tr>
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This section will be gentle slopes, pretty runnable (if your legs will still take you) all the way to The Cross, where you will presented with a left turn (towards Mt Feathertop), and a right turn (or straight - towards the Razorback).<br />
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<b><u>The Cross - Mt Feathertop (11-12k)</u></b><br />
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As you climb up towards Mt Feathertop, it gets increasingly treacherous for 2 reasons - the views get better, and the trails gets more technical.. as you admire the view & lose focus/concentration, you may trip/misplace footing - all of which is still OK if you don't plummet down the ravine that would be inches away from you on either side of the trail.. !!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One runner busted his knee very badly here.. don't take this section lightly!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZZ4DX90WofCC1HyX6Lw7ShQmgEuXN0_X7wHR6lhmjgU8Pn1iMkxQgaIxCY3bbaCzPMgMn7vEA7xAJXaTw1X9uf8jeTXhQ7bl0NPvK0id6W0vbN3NeMEv7qGDdXFlhzGxpOYnb_6jaQY/s1600/P1020496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZZ4DX90WofCC1HyX6Lw7ShQmgEuXN0_X7wHR6lhmjgU8Pn1iMkxQgaIxCY3bbaCzPMgMn7vEA7xAJXaTw1X9uf8jeTXhQ7bl0NPvK0id6W0vbN3NeMEv7qGDdXFlhzGxpOYnb_6jaQY/s400/P1020496.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What did I tell you about the 'killer' views.. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVhyphenhyphenl5V93W0QCuqmR3CUDWjLzxuFerPJniO7fVJa7l7I6a1VWyWZWSFPyvIhNGzNQJYyqDhw0e9QgzkQtOewlUJEn8GgEtSt6EIuq06hnYBrXrbaBKSVeZywIbZfLhsrahj1SiMbm9-iM/s1600/P1020499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVhyphenhyphenl5V93W0QCuqmR3CUDWjLzxuFerPJniO7fVJa7l7I6a1VWyWZWSFPyvIhNGzNQJYyqDhw0e9QgzkQtOewlUJEn8GgEtSt6EIuq06hnYBrXrbaBKSVeZywIbZfLhsrahj1SiMbm9-iM/s400/P1020499.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt Feathertop awaits.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN_qxpnhMF-GmXpkPA4e7UlYHhtNgf7YutjwI9fUxod-MNiJSpPgbVlsLXBnTDqdHV7S6I5rhyRvMKu3hbOxZjP-9VjJVPOQH25D-bidefh4kelD-go4ArNKJzz_VmP_WCzi2mrPPU8E4/s1600/11262271676_59cabb47ce_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN_qxpnhMF-GmXpkPA4e7UlYHhtNgf7YutjwI9fUxod-MNiJSpPgbVlsLXBnTDqdHV7S6I5rhyRvMKu3hbOxZjP-9VjJVPOQH25D-bidefh4kelD-go4ArNKJzz_VmP_WCzi2mrPPU8E4/s400/11262271676_59cabb47ce_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pic courtesy of Neo Samurai </td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
This section you will benefit if you have poles with you - helps with balance, footing, not so much uphill but definitely during the downhill section.<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Razorback (13-23k) & Back (23-32k)</u></b><br />
<br />
I'll just let the pictures do the talking.. :)<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvfkW2HgfoTJZOn1LosSu0CxLnHwNCQ0_s-5Cw1iWnRSd5fk4JSJ2JJAWk3run4F23_-jXOfo9fOT4UDBVUo6d1AfFvhke7K7H3H_9kmBHL0ipcEXn9L8hFX5rhU4pA18nLc60tiwpCg/s1600/P1020514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvfkW2HgfoTJZOn1LosSu0CxLnHwNCQ0_s-5Cw1iWnRSd5fk4JSJ2JJAWk3run4F23_-jXOfo9fOT4UDBVUo6d1AfFvhke7K7H3H_9kmBHL0ipcEXn9L8hFX5rhU4pA18nLc60tiwpCg/s400/P1020514.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back towards Feathertop from Diamantina Spur junction.. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsR0kpHzA2PHb13V3RbIvfyk0wSPvu3HCposM5up3QJ8lEgtN37mtvCH0lIgFjK__Q7RptCzEj_3j4zs4halqcLwVnVOU23fsGAUBGuY9bubYkMtz39PHlybsgmFLerWaHUzKufSLXO9w/s1600/P1020511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsR0kpHzA2PHb13V3RbIvfyk0wSPvu3HCposM5up3QJ8lEgtN37mtvCH0lIgFjK__Q7RptCzEj_3j4zs4halqcLwVnVOU23fsGAUBGuY9bubYkMtz39PHlybsgmFLerWaHUzKufSLXO9w/s400/P1020511.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading fwd along the Razorback (this guy was going opp way)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOunGc0xD6SmuTSVy7BpNobvXy7zrneS81-coUHwLTuOtZ3xXpjF5kyu52BZExGNCFwpa_5KYTzTpOwAYtvRwEYH5jKmAL6ZDr-to5OfLGjducSyLhC6FBKQdbMMGqjM37bzWq7VTJW9o/s1600/P1020525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOunGc0xD6SmuTSVy7BpNobvXy7zrneS81-coUHwLTuOtZ3xXpjF5kyu52BZExGNCFwpa_5KYTzTpOwAYtvRwEYH5jKmAL6ZDr-to5OfLGjducSyLhC6FBKQdbMMGqjM37bzWq7VTJW9o/s400/P1020525.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views continue to inspire.. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjshxMrj7Lqe-JYPF1-EPgFuWszxZEWw-wKCqcbUqk4euPhQFxWO7QdYhOYzUBZl10tP3_utNscNobyAQIkNcyM888mCYqnQXYiCCCg-mmrj8bv1G-YxHgeb8ozVnqpk8chLJVmLt277Y/s1600/P1020541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjshxMrj7Lqe-JYPF1-EPgFuWszxZEWw-wKCqcbUqk4euPhQFxWO7QdYhOYzUBZl10tP3_utNscNobyAQIkNcyM888mCYqnQXYiCCCg-mmrj8bv1G-YxHgeb8ozVnqpk8chLJVmLt277Y/s400/P1020541.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Certain sections we were running right at the edge of the slope..<br />
several runners tripped (I did multiple times) so stay focused!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjreX0eEMUyLuKletjplUG0xLUp2yMyC67bEz6ckR8GQwAbvzpTcE1HFQdwaA1ZiLMfF9L48Y6ps_2agZASJGTQ8Ed-FQy4vvbN2kR7uf5WKnwNxLLc772tlmghhuroHyHPL566_ex7LZ0/s1600/P1000928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjreX0eEMUyLuKletjplUG0xLUp2yMyC67bEz6ckR8GQwAbvzpTcE1HFQdwaA1ZiLMfF9L48Y6ps_2agZASJGTQ8Ed-FQy4vvbN2kR7uf5WKnwNxLLc772tlmghhuroHyHPL566_ex7LZ0/s400/P1000928.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Yakking to friendly walkers </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcfvV2mWK85o2ZT-XIyZiZWahMYYx0tzcxCBEZ_m6UzJX0uZ6PcFFPCEVRefSP9ForTfwF3mMBBJD1SlhgZ3CS-rpnH41L9spC3_s8D3sjh9Tq1EhidA3GrBKYEG98y8g4aoE2Qa19WM/s1600/1450184_721619161199381_1545117487_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcfvV2mWK85o2ZT-XIyZiZWahMYYx0tzcxCBEZ_m6UzJX0uZ6PcFFPCEVRefSP9ForTfwF3mMBBJD1SlhgZ3CS-rpnH41L9spC3_s8D3sjh9Tq1EhidA3GrBKYEG98y8g4aoE2Qa19WM/s400/1450184_721619161199381_1545117487_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the U-turn checkpoint Diamantina Hut (looking back at Razorback)<br />
pic courtesy of La Sportiva Mountain Series 13</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5R5IvdpVMxsgpYcDBfY9UsCxUZtBgSjYjihsE3Yp4uVJuWddgM4c3GAfdxrHCl2EQ-3eMzgWJrgdYXSYyK2RJokyqwM67gPmb190nEvZoaIwN9_psOPQmwRl0U4Ex63n75JR0Mst44M/s1600/P1000935.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5R5IvdpVMxsgpYcDBfY9UsCxUZtBgSjYjihsE3Yp4uVJuWddgM4c3GAfdxrHCl2EQ-3eMzgWJrgdYXSYyK2RJokyqwM67gPmb190nEvZoaIwN9_psOPQmwRl0U4Ex63n75JR0Mst44M/s400/P1000935.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihgWfdGMnJQL3qThKKhom4gP83k_HKyUj2nAusCtP0uWciCQTTBz2mWuQyuZPw3mK8UYv89kDF0v0GGbwrjbOndUQEOvjDKMniScQ7vNkzKSuUfhh3vPNDGARy8UjfXznjl7sxjCBLOw/s1600/P1020546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihgWfdGMnJQL3qThKKhom4gP83k_HKyUj2nAusCtP0uWciCQTTBz2mWuQyuZPw3mK8UYv89kDF0v0GGbwrjbOndUQEOvjDKMniScQ7vNkzKSuUfhh3vPNDGARy8UjfXznjl7sxjCBLOw/s400/P1020546.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I paused at this section & watched top runners zip by.. </td></tr>
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The Razorback section had multiple undulating sections, but nothing too crazy. Certain sections you will run right at the edge of treacherous drops so caution required. Every time I tripped it was because I looked up to check out the views... once again poles would help with going faster on these technical trails - especially the descend. </div>
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<b><u>Bungalow Spur - Finishing (32-42k)</u></b><br />
<br />
Pretty straightforward, this section is just 10k of pure pounding of the quads... & felt like it was going on forever. If you didn't train your downhills, you would be cursing a bit over this section. I was just ecstatic that my ITB injuries didn't flare up the entire descend!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjDWAFScxMvWI6ElHNLz0MLfhCJo4s1RPutDx1rddFaZ4xeB0UZjoQ4RKWGZ1D3qTdwDhscRxcr26Qm4l_zj4fOE7M6cPG9E4NMnwonsiCMT5MSpec9yAjJCnUKHeFZmmq_QSzQMWL-E/s1600/P1000952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjDWAFScxMvWI6ElHNLz0MLfhCJo4s1RPutDx1rddFaZ4xeB0UZjoQ4RKWGZ1D3qTdwDhscRxcr26Qm4l_zj4fOE7M6cPG9E4NMnwonsiCMT5MSpec9yAjJCnUKHeFZmmq_QSzQMWL-E/s400/P1000952.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
We finally crossed the finishing line after 8:40 hours, our goal was under 9 hours and it was great we achieved it and had plenty of fun along the way. Didn't mind at all staying out there a bit longer given it was such a glorious day. You had to envy the walkers as it was definitely a day to slow down & soak in the views up in the Alpines.<br />
<br />
Needless to say we'll be back to this region to run/hike/ski perhaps?... but as far as the run goes, what a day & weekend it has been, breath-taking views, gorgeous trails, beautiful weather, no ITB injuries, nutrition & hydration planning went well, loads of pictures taken.. couldn't have asked for more.<br />
<br />
<b>Final Thoughts:</b><br />
<br />
1) Poles - very useful for this kinda run..<br />
2) Nutrition - the trail mix prepared by vonsy works very well, kept my energy levels up!<br />
3) UD vest - held up very well in full load, continues to impress!<br />
4) We missed seeing familiar faces!<br />
5) Run organisation was good on run-day, cut-off times were mentioned but weren't strictly enforced, slower-runners have to head towards the pub (where the dinner/presentation would be going on) instead of finishing point & record own time.. might want to take note of that<br />
6) And yes by all means do sign up for this event!<br />
<br />
Once again, thanks for reading folks! I leave you with this beautiful sunset at the top of Mount Hotham from the same evening :)<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayE9tagjlgKU8uC53dqk2yyRj6Z1bu8IW4xalMdv1gTKTXOqyCnRMRUf4Gf-oB1hmcj3FJo1PDN0x5Wi5p6wzEDAZBqBFWEmheS4XFyjwCJejYzjnw8-5ZsoR1gJWFB1hytIIbneTi3s/s1600/IMG_4321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayE9tagjlgKU8uC53dqk2yyRj6Z1bu8IW4xalMdv1gTKTXOqyCnRMRUf4Gf-oB1hmcj3FJo1PDN0x5Wi5p6wzEDAZBqBFWEmheS4XFyjwCJejYzjnw8-5ZsoR1gJWFB1hytIIbneTi3s/s640/IMG_4321.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">damn I love this place!</span></td></tr>
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637504335497374733.post-6580961155343079742013-10-23T23:13:00.000+11:002013-10-30T20:14:55.457+11:00Lake Mountain Skyrun 2013 - Gum Tree Barks & Broken Branches!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
<b>So how was it?</b><br />
<br />
Yea it was tough.<br />
Warm sapping tough.<br />
Warm sapping tough + long climbs! <br />
Warm sapping tough + long climbs + semi-technical trails + trails littered with gum tree barks & broken branches (very easy to sprain your ankle if you're not careful!)<br />
<br />
In fact, we heard one of the runners broke his/her ankle.. really horrible news. Tired legs going fast with such trails its almost dangerous (and if you're wearing sunnies - you'll certainly get caught). But then this is trail running.. runners should be cautioned or be mindful themselves. Especially once you get caught the first time, you'd want to be sensible & adjust your pace (I only took heed after multiple trips!) - I suppose for the more serious runners this will be even more difficult given they'll want to go fast..<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scenes at the start</td></tr>
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While it wasn't windy or rainy, the warm weather was indeed another challenge we didn't anticipate too well. Running at 10am through mid-day & early afternoon, we ran through the max temp for the day.. and while we were constantly hydrating - we certainly seem to be sweating & losing salt faster than what we were putting in. Can't imagine what running the Outback Marathon would be like! Running with the wife we had tried to move fast but eventually the toughness of the sun + terrain caught up with us & we resorted to just a sustainable pace.</div>
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<b>Interesting bits? </b><br />
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The setting was certainly one we've never experienced before - the entire course was strewn in dried up trees! (Black saturday fires 2009). Picturesque in its own way. Friendly & supportive crew made our run easier too.. of course there's only so much dead branches one could be impressed with I suppose - eventually we were just pre-occupied with just heat & sore-legs :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The friendly aid station staff offering their services.. (this was the first aid station at 17k mark)</td></tr>
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<b>Less impressive bits?</b> Just the one.. :P<br />
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Pushing hard to complete - esp the last 10k - it was kinda disheartening the entire place was packed up (except the banner) when we finished... not because we were disappointed in our timing or effort or anything like that - it was more the feeling that we were left with when we crossed the finishing... no time-keeper, no clock, nobody from the organising team - only our friends (thanks Dion & Jon!) who came out to greet us etc. (And I heard Dion say they were gonna take down the banner as well until he told them there were runners still out there.....hmm)<br />
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Having said that the time-keeper & RD did come out to greet us shortly after but once again it was kinda sad that the time-keeper had to ask us what our finishing time was (and was about to write down a ridiculous time after mishearing us)... I'm sure the organisers have no intention to make us feel like that - but it did leave us feeling kinda small. Granted we're no elites - but a sense of completion is important to the slow(est) runners too. If the event was time-sensitive or if the event had expectations of standard of run - a cut-off time will help runners have realistic check on their timing.. I think telling a runner they didn't make the cut-off is much better than leaving a runner feeling they've been a drag...!<br />
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How's that for perspective from the slower end of the running world for a change? :) <br />
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<b>Takeaways</b><br />
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Still absolutely proud of our efforts - pushing once again through sore ITBs, mental ruts, the sun, hydration challenges, tricky technical trails... it was a decent challenge for sure if that's what you're after. I suppose I would recommend doing the 34k (that's the actual distance btw) too because eventhough the last 10k is partially repeated route - running it the 2nd time at different time of day & in more fatigue disposition it does become a different experience. Be careful of the gum tree barks hiding broken branches for sure.. people with weak ankles need to take extra caution in these stretches.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Should be renamed as Gum Tree Barks Run!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wifey vs unrelenting sun.. </td></tr>
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Watch out for hydration if its going to be warm day.. this run is largely self-supported, having 2 aid stations - make sure you plan well, fill up all your bottles & bladders & store necessary amounts of jelly beans, m&ms etc. (& bring your own powergel & electrolytes coz there's none supplied)<br />
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That's all I have for you folks on Lake Mountain Skyrun 2013.. hope it gave you some insight to the run!<br />
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LOVE TRAILS & KEEP RUNNING!<br />
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bineushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03425573617959319860noreply@blogger.com2