Eastnor Castle Deer Park - STUNNING
Getting My Bike Number Fitted
Last minute bike tune up
After my second lap, and many, many falls, I was completely lost it. I cried twice during that lap. I'm not sure exactly what it was, perhaps the realization that I was in WAY over my head with this course, or that I was stunned at how physically and mentally exhausted I was early on. It was extremely frustrating. (Mom, don't read this next part)...during my 2nd lap, I stopped off to see a race medic as I had fallen and hit my head on a rock earlier, and wanted to ensure I was ok. It was at that point, I lost it...just completely crying like a baby. I was fine, and well looked after - took a 30 minute breather and then they let me back on the course. I had about an hour or two to stop and collect myself when I got in after the 2nd lap. My competitive nature and emotions were arguing over whether or not to get another lap in before it got dark (I made the decision I would NOT cycle the course in the dark, as I knew it would be extremely dangerous for me, and I did not feel comfortable doing it). I ended up going out and had the best lap of my race! I didn't fall ONCE and just enjoyed the entire course that time. As I was coming around completely my lap, I heard "GO EMILY GO!"...now there were a lot of people there and I was getting pretty weary at this point, but I was kind of thinking that sounded like Catherine (who sadly couldn't end up going because Oscar had chicken pox). Anyway, so I kept on going and completed my lap. Sure enough, as I passed the line, Catherine, Gareth, Oscar and Jessie were all smiles cheering me on! It was one of the coolest moments I have shared with them. I was completely exhausted in every way, but was so overjoyed to see them and SO completely thankful for them making the 2 hour trip!! If it hadn't been night, I probably could have managed a few more laps after seeing them, it really uplifted my spirits.
St Greg's Crew - Duncan, Nick, Dave, Me, Kate & Nick
I got about 4 hours "sleep" that night...and got up about 4am to get my bike and things sorted to head out at 5 am. It was nice and quiet on the course, but I had another bad fall, and decided I had better call it quits while I was still able to walk. All of my falls landed on the same hip...so currently I have a basketball sized, black, blue, purple, pink bruise on my hip. It is repulsive, but I am strangely proud of it, and have been showing whoever will look! I went through a lot to get that bruise! I was finished about 9am...even though the 24 hours was up at noon. I was able to get some ice on my hip and get some of the swelling down, and cheer on the rest of the St Greg's team when they came in.
Lots of characters at the event
All in all, it was a great event. I learned a lot about my capabilities as an athlete. Initially, I thought I would never do it again. I have come to my senses today and realized I probably will attempt something similar in the future.
Thank you to everyone for their support. Especially Catherine and Gareth - its always hard not having my family close by, especially at sporting events. My parents have ALWAYS gone above and beyond for me and supported me in everything I've done - like drive over 3 hours - one way - to watch a 1 hour ringette game. It was hard not having them there, but I knew they were proud of me. Having Catherine and family come out and support me meant a lot.
So that was my Mountain Mayhem experience...in a very small nutshell.
Enjoy these pictures...
Much love xo.
