At this point my confidence is starting to take a hit. I have a nagging Jiminy Cricket that insists I am not made to do this kind of running (how many other Clydesdale ultra runners can there be?). Most days I don't listen, but nonetheless he seems to be creeping in more often!
I am however listening to my body. I know that I have to push past my (perceived) physical and mental limits if I am to be fully prepared for my fall ultras. I know from my previous 50km ultra that finishing is a balance of consistent training and a positive mental attitude.
I am lucky enough to have a wealth of experienced trail and ultra runners to lean on and I hope that my constant questions and requests for long run partners are not becoming tiresome. The physical benefits I gain from running with these guys and gals is just as valuable as the advice they are passing on. Hearing their stories of missed training runs, bloody nipples and aid station mistakes allow me to be less hard on myself when I make my own mistakes.
What is most important I guess is that I am still enjoying getting out the door and off the road. For now this Clydesdale is safe from being sent out to pasture...
