When I tell people I like running long distances and ultramarathons, I’m sure like most I get the same look of “you’re a bit mental” followed by the “why on earth do you do it?” question.
It’s a fair enough question in the face of telling people the stories of pain, stomach complaints and recovery time following things like the 60+ miles in the Hardmoors ultra or the inevitable pain the White Rose Ultra will cause or the amount of training I’m going to have to do in order to attempt a Bob Graham Round attempt next summer.
The answer though is simple. I can’t believe it took me so long to realise it.
I like running. I really enjoy it.
I like the sport and I like that the rewards you reap are directly related to the effort you put in.
I run a long way because I enjoy the journey to the start line as much as the run.