UKA Pain Debrief by Cat Hicks
Just over 100km completed in the stunning town of Älvdalen. It’s hard to know where to start! The race began at 6am with pumped up music getting the runners in the mood to start the journey ahead. As the race began we were greeted with some local Swedish music. It was a wonderful start through the woodland and beside a stunning lake. In fact all the runners appeared in a rhythm as we all embarked on the journey ahead! The first 30km flew by with a couple of big climbs and we hit the best aid station with hot soup and sandwiches! The hot soup was a perfect fuel boost. We continued at a good pace with Per Johan leading the pack. The views were spectacular and we also ran over a big dam. At 50km we had a big rest and refuel with our bag drop. I ate a wrap, sweets, fruit and drank some coke. I didn’t change much just my top and packed the headlamp. Then we began on the second 50km loop (same loop just other way round). The mid point fuel stop had given me a good boost . We continued in our pack of 5 with a smooth flow and rhythm. It felt quite magical! The aid station with soup approached again around 70km ish and the sun was still shining. Also as an added treat one of the supporters had bought watermelon which was so refreshing and just what I needed. The climbs second time round were a bit harder on the legs but the group energy and stunning scenery kept me going! The toughest part for me was the final climb around 82km as my legs could feel it and my body was tired! My mind was powering me to the finish! The last 20km seemed to go very quickly with lots of running and a magical sun beaming down on us (yes even at 8pm)! We even spotted a deer. As we approached the finish line we all joined hand in hand and raised them up to celebrate our team success as we crossed the finish line. Done! Wow! My legs could finally stop moving. We congratulated one another and got a hug (as promised) from the organisers. Some other key highlights include getting a wrist band at the top of each peak and the whole race being in the light (it really makes a difference)! Overall it was an unforgettable and magical experience! My learning was that anything is possible with the energy, support and power of a group / tribe / squad. People really are powerful and you can do anything if you believe and have the right people around you! Thank you UKA Pain and a massive thank you to Elma (Modern Escapes) for organising!
