Friend and client Fiona Anderson completed the West Highland Way run (96 miles) two weeks ago. I had the pleasure of speaking to her the following day, where she looked remarkably fresh and was in awe at her physical and mental resilience to over come the race. Being shy, I am delighted she agreed to answer a few questions on the race. Well done Fiona.
*Warning – after reading this may, you may want to lace up, sign up and show up to an Ultra Marathon ( psst – I did and it was great).
Q1 With running such a distance, how do you plan out your Hydration and nutrition?
During training I’d experimented with different fuel choices, I’m not a fan of gels, so try to stick with “real” food, and tailwind. Pancakes, banana bread, smash, pots of ambrosia rice, mars bars, wine gums, things I like anyway, as running long distances my stomach tends to close down on me, so it’s finding what’s easiest to digest .
Q2-How was the preparation and training leading up to the WHW? Did you suffer any injuries and how did you manage them?
Prep and training didn’t go to plan…I picked up a knee injury in March, which halted any long distance runs, the back to backs I needed to build up the endurance for running the West Highland Way. Had a GFA place for VLM, but James advised me against running it, so I walked it instead. It was really only after I’d managed to complete the Fling later in April that I knew I was still in with a chance of getting to the start line. My injury was managed by regular visits to James, the exercises he recommended, sports massage and rest ☹️
Q3- What were your top 3 highlights from the run?
Highlights Conic Hill. Reaching the top just as the sun rose…just breathtaking
The camaraderie at an ultra is something special. West Highland was exceptional, everyone looking out for one another, wether it be runners, Marshall’s or support crew.
Hitting my lowest point in the run, to then find some grit I really didn’t know I had
Q4-Physically this can be so demanding, but mentally can you explain what goes through your head during the event?
Sang a LOT of cheesy songs along the way, Beach Boys, and 80’s tunes to help take my mind off what I was asking of my legs. Breaking it down into the various checkpoints, knowing my crew would be there waiting for me (even though they bought the WRONG lucozade 😂) Taking in where I was running, the surroundings, and listening to the other runners chats. Remembering one of my friends husbands advice…”Don’t be shit…” 😂😂
Q5-Whats next for you Fiona? What events have you to look forward to?
Fort William marathon in July, the Railway Relay in August, GM24 and Loch Ness in September, Illuminator and Culloden in October, and Fraserburgh half in November! That’ll keep me out of trouble for a bit…
Q6-After running Stirling I was hit by the post run blues, was this similar to yourself?
No post run blues, just grateful I was able to do the run, as at points I didn’t think I’d make the start line. Let alone complete it, it’s a massive privilege to be able to take part in such an iconic ultra. Looking forward to whatever’s next!
Q7 What would be your top tip for #projectrun?
Top tip, believe in yourself, trust your training, and just run 😊
Thanks a million Fiona I really appreciate your time and well done again in the West Highland Way race – under 24hrs phenomenal.
Thanks For Reading
Run Long and Prosper
James
