Training Log Archive: nmulder

Ran the Num Num Trail Challenge, which is in it's second year. It had some very good reviews last year and after running it, I agree that it's probably the toughest race km for km that I've run so far in SA. It's very hilly and very technical underfoot for all but about 2km, where you have a rocky jeep track instead. The rest of the race is spent climbing in and out of canyons, ducking through indigenous bush, under boulders and overhangs and generally racking up about 3300m of climb that my Suunto recorded (is that accurate?).

I'm still on the recovery trail from illness, so I decided to pace myself throughout the race. I started conservative and steady, not letting myself be pulled or pushed by nearby runners for the early stages. They blew and I didn't, so this was a good approach. Found myself on my own for long periods which was nice, but also mentally tough on the climbs. The course also winds all over the place and you quite often come close to where you were before (if you're keeping track of your surroundings), which can also be disheartening - I prefer proper point-to-point race formats.

There were fewer waterpoints later in the race and I didn't trust the stream water, so I took a bit of strain over the last 8km. Apparently it was drinkable, but I ended up giving away 1 position and having to fight for 11th place in the Men's. (Also took a wrong turn that cost me 4-5 minutes).

Happy with my time. I was aiming for roundabout this given that last year's course record was 4h53. New record is about 4h05. 'd like to run it again and try and take up to an hour off my own time if I am in good shape next year.