I ran the marathon option and this is a tough course and in the 30* heat it was even tougher but still very enjoyable.

I arrived at the race HQ which was at a hotel just a short walk from the race start. I registered and collected my race number with no fuss and was able to sort my last minute kit adjustments in the comfort of the hotel lobby as well use the toilets there.

I then walked up to the start where we were given a safety briefing from the race director before being set off on time. The course was a double out and back to cover the marathon distance. I’m normally not a fan of out and back races but this one was fun as it was a great route with some technical trail, tough hills and beautiful scenery. The aid starting were stocked up with water, tailwind, juice, flapjacks, sweets etc and the marshals were very encouraging.

At the end of the race you are presented with a fantastic medal, which you definitely feel u deserve at the end of a tough race.

This was a testing race but the friendly and supportive atmosphere spurs you on all the way to the end