March/ April long runs

I’ve been quiet lately because, quite frankly, running and I are locked in a bit of a conflict. I spent the winter being a "disciplined athlete" and trying hard all through the dark months, only for what feels like the universe to flip me the metaphorical middle finger every time I try to covert that into some sort of performance. It’s not inspiring, it’s annoying, and who wants to read about that?

​So, here is the record of my recent long miles, for the sake of the archives, before I park this winter right here, and move on to better things.

​Phoenix Fridays (Run For A Tenner) | 29.5 miles | 06.03.2026

A long run by the river in London. Mostly an excuse to catch up with pals, and pretend that running 30 miles is a normal social hobby. It is, right?

Moray Marathon | 26.2 miles of Pain and Regret | 05.04.2026

I was hoping my winter graft would pay off; what I got was Storm Dave and an undulating course that broke my spirit (and my quads, and my stomach and my feet, etc etc) by Mile 8. I spent the next 18 miles grinding it out, questioning everything, and losing four toenails. There's no sugar coating it, I tried my hardest and didn't get what I wanted. That’s just where I am right now.

Affric Kintail Way | 41 miles | 11.04.2026

The palate cleanser. A long, hilly, steady day out with Andrew where the only thing that mattered was finishing. No chasing times, no pressure, just being out in nature and forgetting about everything. We finished off the final miles singing the Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat soundtrack in the pitch black, with special guest Chil Pollins the giant tree frog (a story for another time), which must have given the person wild camping by the trail a bit of a shock (especially with my singing).

So here I am, doing my thing, losing my toenails, and signing musicals in the woods in the dark. Onwards on upwards*! 

*hopefully not too much up!