Last stages of preparation...

I thought the map on the right would help put the distance into perspective.

In my mind, I have broken it down into 3x 50 mile sections, and I'll tackle it just that way. Today has been spent fine tuning how I expect to approach each section, and sorting out last minute details.

We bought a dvd camcorder for Caz to film the race, we bought the food that I will take on board at the checkpoints, we watched the 2007 race together from the video posted on the left, and agreed what I will need and when I will need it.

It all gets so real in the final stages of preparation! The exitement builds, and I get that familiar tickle of adrenaline everytime I look at my kitlist or think about the specifics.

I also started Carbo-loading today. From now until Friday I won't be drinking any Tea or Coffee or anything that will act as a diuretic. I will drink 1.5 liters of Lepin Carbo-Lode, a fructose based powder that is added to water and I will drink small glasses regularily during the day. I will also drink plenty of normal water.

This will stock up the carbohydrate levels stored in the muscles and the intention is that this will fuel the first 75miles, and whilst taking on regular food and carb loded rehydration drinks at the checkpoints I should be able to delay the depletion of energy to beyond the 3600 foot mountain climb at the 100 mile point.





The final 40 miles to Sparta should be manageable on shear guts and determination. Every one of the competitors will suffer exhaustion during this final stage, there is a total of 8000ft of climb, and most of it is faced in the last 53 miles, so thighs will be screaming in agony after the descents and repeated climbs before the last 18 mile down hill section to sparta.









But hey... If it was easy... it wouldn't be respected world wide as... the ultimate test of endurance running would it! What a challenge!!

more later, see you soon.