Hello,
I am writing this note as a reminder to myself that five months ago, I was terrified of an experience that ultimately turned out to be one of the best long weekends of my life.
As time goes by and I get swept up in planning my races for 2025, it’s easy to forget how far I’ve come and how I felt.
So, what would I suggest when you have the chance to embark on something intimidating and feel completely out of your depth? Say yes. It wasn’t as easy as it may seem, but it brought me so much joy.
For many people, a 1,000 km race may sound impossible. However, for those of you who ride often, I want to help you see that it can be achievable. I’m not an expert; I just placed a lot of faith in the process and the people around me and allowed myself the freedom to see what happened.
I was fortunate enough to be pushed to the line but if you aren’t here is what I would do, knowing what I know.:
Pick a race that plays to your strengths: Work out what you like, is it flat, is it hills or a mix of both. My first race was quite flat which felt less intimidating but in the end it felt quite relentless.
Ask around: The ultra community is amazing, I’ve met the best people so ask as many questions as you can to help you prepare for the unknown. Special mention goes to Joost and Quinda who never stopped answering.
Prepare to race alone: Lots of women want to race in a pair, as did I, but I am so grateful I did this solo. Everyone’s experience is different but facing this alone added to the reward and has given me confiendence that I didn’t know I had.
Prepare for post race: I put all my energy into getting to the startline and entirely neglected the finish. I needed comfier clothes, food in the fridge and a tonne of sudocream. Plan the following days carefully even if its hard to imagine how you might feel.
Find your own Vortex: riding a long way is wild, and something i absolutely love but its an emotional rollercoaster so try to find your limit before the race so it feels a little less scary when you have no option but to eat and pedal.
Finally, try and have a little more time than 6/7 weeks to prepare but maybe not too much. Just ride your bike as much as you can and make sure you enjoy it!
Speak soon!
Grace x
p.s incase you were wondering, it wasn’t boring. No podcasts or audiobooks just my favourite music narrating the journey.
