Cold, wet, tired.... Home

I made it!!! Oh my, that was really, really hard. The first 5 miles was very cold and the rain was persistent. I walked this bit (who wants to run at 5 am?). The second 5 was a little easier and I managed a run despite the fact the rain was still bouncing upwards. From the 10 mile mark, the water began to seep through my 5 layers, gradually everything from my scalp to my toes were as wet as they would be in the shower. At 20 miles I was given a precautionary foil blanket which I think helped a bit. At 26 miles I had to stop for a while and adjust blister plasters etc. At this point, everything in my backpack was soaked through and pretty useless. I then headed up onto Kirby Moor and the misery got worse. At 30 miles I was asked what I needed, the only sensible answer was "a hug". At 35 miles, I borrowed Penny the labradoodle. She was a godsend. My sister (much fitter than me) was very patient and pulled back her pace to stay with me. My blood sugar and core temperature were starting to drop at a worrying rate. I have never been more pleased to see the finishing line. I got my medal and promptly conked out in the first aid tent. Thankfully, the peeling off of my soggy kit, a fresh cosy jacket and some lucozade fixed me up. This pic was the view of the other walking wounded, from my recovery bed.

For all the brave people who tackled the K2B, I salute your spirit. I am especially in awe of the winner. A chap called Ian Symington completed 40 miles in 4 hours 30 minutes, on a day when many people had to be rescued from the course due to extreme conditions. I've never set eyes on this man, I wouldn't even be able to see the back of his head from my plodding position at the back of the pack, but I'd love to shake his hand.

My time...? 11 hours and 48 minutes. I'm no champion, but I'm very pleased I finished and I'm very proud of my team and the support crew. Everyone is a winner.