Final Prep for the Art O'Neill Challenge 2023

Final 30 mins before setting off for the Art O’Neill 60k Challenge

Unlike any race I’ve done before; it’s through the night, it’s my first winter ultra, and I have to navigate a lot of the course… so it could be a lot longer than 60k!

There are events I’ve rocked up to not knowing the course. But I’ve had to study for this one.

Like all ultra marathons, rather than tackling all 60k, I need to break it down:

First 25k, getting out of Dublin into Kippure, I’ll keep it slow. Roughly a 6 min/km pace. Save my energy for what’s to come.

From there, 6k to the next checkpoint and the real navigating begins. To say this won’t be my strong point is a huge understatement. 12k to the next checkpoint through different trails.

17k then, with hopefully finding Art O’Neill cross along the way (or it’s a DNF), to Glenmalure “and freedom”

I’ll try to keep a steady pace on the flats, watch my footing and attack the hills … by walking fast 😜

The goal is to finish, hitting the required checkpoints to officially do it. The closest thing I can compare it to is the 80k Ecotrail. Based on that time, maaaaybe 10 hours? 🤷‍♂️

Although the Ecotrail was in perfect conditions in September with a guided route so my dumbass wouldn’t get lost, this is a different beast!

The complete uncertainty on the many different ways this one can go, with all the elements in play, has me pretty damn excited!

And yes, there’s a large part of me that’s asking what the hell am I doing out here. Well outside my comfort zone but that’s half the fun!

If I want that under 24 hour 100 mile goal, I better get used to running overnight and on little to no sleep. The journey towards that challenge takes a significant step tonight.

It’s gonna be a long night…

#AON2023

#LetsGoGetEmAgain