Training Log Archive: briangardner

Jog up to the start and some stretching.

Nice event, but very technical running. Twisted my left ankle properly about 4 times. Nav was relatively ok, most likely due to running slower and concentrating on map reading. Caught Nathan at #9 and he tucked in behind me until 15. Messed up 15. Had Nathan right behind me, and was thrown off by Eugene coming in from a completely different angle. After a small loop, finally found 15 and then ran hard to 16, dropping Nathan on the way. Was too high contouring around the hill to 19, so dropped into the gully too high. Fairly good run from there to the finish. Ankles are now stuffed! 5th place in the end behind Brad, Mike, Garry and Eugene. Enjoyed it.

Brown - Splits

To van Gaalen and then to the start line on the dirt road at Ashley Manor pecan farm.

An out-and-back race to the spaza shop on the northern side of Breedts Nek and back. Quite a big field, with a few pro riders. First 20k was pretty chilled with a big bunch. Pace started to pick up after that and a small group got away. Found myself off the lead bunch in no mans land again. 2 others caught me and we worked together, but they dropped me going up the south side of Breedts Nek, so was alone again. Was 7mins behind the leaders at the turn around, but I started going backwards from here. The climb back over Breedts was a hard grind... Rest of the race went ok, but pulled big amps in the last 20kms. My legs felt the lack of riding in the past few months and too much being lazy after Expedition Africa! At least I managed to pass 4 guys on the last 6kms on the river trails. Very well organized and killer chicken pregos at the finish made it all worth it! Not sure of overall position yet. Interesting race concept, considering all the epic trails van Gaalen has to offer.

Back home from van Gaalen.

Stop-start. Map updates and corrections on the van Gaalen MTBO map.

Short loop in The Coves.