Running race 3:34:00 [4]
GWC 18-miler from Kintail. From Morvich out on HX route up Gleann Lichd almost to Alltbeithe YH, across river and left up Gleann Gniomhaidh, over Bealach an Sgairne and back down Gleann Choinneachain. Plan was to cruise this comfortably and get through the race without major structural problems.
Set off steady and felt good to Glenlicht House with a bit of a tail wind most of the way (35'). Still feeling pretty good on first climb to high point above waterfalls (1h), although noticed first twinges in calf. Started to feel awkward on next leg to river crossing so eased back and tried to stay relaxed (1h40'). Route up Glen Gniomhaidh was 7km of hideous bog and found myself walking most of it struggling to stay upright and stave off muscle spasms. Disappeared up to my knees at one point (along with everyone else as it turned out), calf cramp set in, and thought I'd never escape. Was ultra cautious after that, tensing everything badly and hesitating at every bit of swamp. Relieved to reach solid ground and the climb to the col which felt better (2h42'). Start of descent felt good, but then cramp twinges started again and kicked in badly on the roped stream crossing. Struggled from then until path improved lower down and managed to finish in one piece.
Relieved to reach the end without suffering complete muscle seizure, but disappointed to have suffered so badly again from structural problems. Energy was fine and am sure I could have worked harder if the body could have taken it. Better than last year at least - but only because it was almost an hour shorter.