Natalie White wasn’t pleased with ending one of many hardest operating races on earth twice, so this Sunday she goes once more.
It’s the ultimate week and as I put together for my third try on the Tor des Géants, a wave of emotion washes over me.
Nerves and nervousness have crept in. They’re fueled by the recollections of previous races, the spectre of current setbacks and the wonderful ladies who I’ll race subsequent Sunday. Nevertheless, I remind myself that that is my journey, and my focus should stay alone efficiency, not on the competitors round me.
Having been on the course a number of occasions this summer time, I’ve actually loved seeing the course in a non-race surroundings. The fantastic landscapes are each awe-inspiring and daunting. Every stretch of path holds a reminiscence, a lesson realized, and a problem overcome. A brand new journey awaits in every climb and descent.
Not all plain crusing, however par for the course
Preparation for the Tor des Géants has been a rollercoaster this yr. After selecting up an harm on the Gran Path Courmayeur, my coaching has actually not gone as deliberate however isn’t that always the best way with these huge desires.
Every day presents a brand new alternative to adapt and push ahead, whether or not which means adjusting my coaching plan or taking the time to heal. Through the years of mountain operating I’ve realized to roll with the punches once they come.
Because the race approaches, I do know I have to deal with the fundamentals: consuming, consuming, and shifting. These are my mantras for the race. Possibly I’ll add smiling to the record as nicely.
Staying fueled and hydrated will probably be essential to sustaining my power ranges. I’ve been honing my vitamin technique throughout coaching, experimenting with totally different meals and hydration strategies to seek out what works greatest for my physique.
Hopefully the climate is nearly as good as this recce on the ultimate day. For the entire week even. Picture: Natalie White
Preserving your head within the recreation
Equally necessary is the psychological recreation. I have to remind myself to deal with the positives. Each step on the course is a step in the direction of reaching my purpose, and I’ve the expertise to attract upon from my earlier makes an attempt.
I’ve realized that evaluating myself to others is a futile train; the Tor des Géants is a private journey, and I can solely management my very own tempo and mindset.
Regardless of the challenges, I’m genuinely excited to get again on the course. I look to seeing my crew at each alternative, Robbie Britton and Gary Home, to offer assist and high class banter. Effectively, wanting ahead to seeing Gary no less than…
Comply with together with glorious stay protection from Tor, for my race, but in addition the 430km Tor des Glaciers and different shorter occasions from 30 to 170km.
