CHALLENGER STORY
SBBU 2022
IT EVEN RHYMES!
# 5: MARIE OF TROY – SBBU 2022
SBBU 1 April 2022, the challenge had been set and the message had been sent to all challengers. Having only just heard snippets about these backyard challenges, I was intrigued, fascinated and even curious to see where I would feature if I entered.
Of course, my Greek ancestry and the continuous reference to the Spartan film via WhatsApp messages gave me the feeling of an instant connection to the Spartan warriors who braved every hardship and hurdle to triumph as victorious winners.
And so, the challenge began without a real plan from my side, apart from the preparation of snacks and drinks, and to have a flow of support from family and friends. I had kept my normal training programme the same, making sure I had fitted in four runs each week. lucky to have espresso in the middle of the night from Paolo who came equipped with a portable coffee machine!
The cold showers( there was no hot water) helped keep me awake.
The night laps did feel long and a bit uninspiring, but they also gave us a chance to think in the silence of the night. The eeriness of the moonlit sky was almost surreal and even spiritual.
The early hours of the morning were a bustle of excitement as friends came to visit and run a few laps with us. This was a huge contributor to helping us get through the last few laps where every step felt like we were climbing a mountain.
And so, the 24 hours passed, and the challenge had been completed!
We all felt like Spartan Warriors even though some carried a few battle wounds that could tell a story or two.
More importantly, we all felt like winners as the challenge had raised a total of R120,000 for the CHOC Foundation, and knowing that this was our ultimate goal made this achievement that much more rewarding.
I knew that for my body to cope with the 24 hours, I would have to preserve energy rather than expend it. I also knew that I would have to keep my muscles warm as my body gets cold very quickly, even in the heat of summer.
I armed myself with blankets, deep heat, arnica oil, a comfortable chair and the continuous chatter from my support team: my family and friends.
I also took advantage of the massages offered by the dedicated physio team.
I held my pace back on the downhills and walked and ran the hills.
I snacked on protein and drank plenty of water and slow-release carb drinks.
Of course, coffee was key, and we were
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