Sometimes , the trails we run mirror the journeys we take in life , filled with challenges , triumphs , and unforgettable moments . My return to the Dryland Traverse this year felt like the perfect blend of all three . After an unfinished attempt in 2022 , due to long-term COVID-related side-effects , I was determined to come back stronger , soak in every bit of the breathtaking scenery that this iconic race offers , and complete the whole race . But this time , it wasn ’ t just about crossing the finish line ; it was about sharing the experience … If there ’ s one piece of advice I can give you about tackling a multi-day stage race , it ’ s to pick the right running partner ! Mirri and I , despite a number of very painful blisters , an injured knee , and calf muscles tied into pretzels , were able to laugh , chat and have an
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absolute blast every step of the way . In other words , run a race like this as part of a team , with one of your closest friends , and you ’ re bound to have a whale of a time .
In the weeks leading up to the wedding on 19 October , Mirri and I balanced wedding preparations with our training for the race , due to take place on the first weekend of November . So Mirri , as my Maid of Honour , was not only my biggest supporter during the wedding shenanigans , but also my partner on the trails , with a number of training runs and races fitted in between wedding preparations , dress fittings and my kitchen tea . And just two weeks after I said ‘ I do ,’ we laced up our trail shoes and tackled the event together , proving that adventure and friendship go hand in hand – even during life ’ s busiest and most exciting moments .
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Prologue : 8.1km Lighting up the Cango Caves
The Dryland Traverse is famous for many reasons , just one of which is its prologue , which starts at the entrance of the Cango Caves and gives runners the unique opportunity to actually run a short section of the caves . Starting a race in this ancient , somewhat otherworldly setting was an experience we underestimated until we were there , headlamps on , feeling the chill of the dampness and condensation of the air in the caves . The vastness of the caves mimicking a hidden castle of sorts , with the towering stalactites and echoing silence ,
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Images : Oakpics and courtesy Nicole Falconer |