Taking on your first ultra marathon while on day 195 of a running every day streak may sound like insanity but that’s me… bonkers… mad. Those who know me, know that I love to have fun, push boundaries and at the same time help others, so what better way to celebrate the virtual London Marathon?
 
I wanted to do something different and also raise some more funds for VICTA. I have done a lot of fundraising over the years and people tend to get fed up of the same old thing. I had wanted to push myself further and so decided that this would be a great way to spark more fundraising interest.
 
I was able to drum up lots of interest on my Facebook and especially my Instagram account @Thevoguerunner, with sponsors from America as well as UK and loads tuned in to follow me on the day.
 
2020 has been a horrible year but my running has helped keep me sane during this difficult time. My mum is in a nursing home, and since March, I have only been allowed to see her twice and so, it’s taken its toll on my mental health a bit. The running has been my focus and really helped.
Claire

Claire preparing for race day the day before

Claire and friend Captain Beany, ready to go

So, 4 October came, and it was tipping down with rain here in South Wales. My good friend and fellow fundraiser Captain Beany had agreed to run the majority of the miles with me. We had originally planned to run Pier to Pier – Port Talbot Pier to Mumbles Pier in Swansea but due to lockdown restrictions in Swansea we needed an alternative route so instead, we went into the forest. A beautiful run along the coast and then up into the village of Cwmavon, through the village of Pontredyfhen which was home to actor Richard Burton and then deep into the gorgeous Afan forest to Cymmer. We then ran back along the same route. The run was hard as it’s hilly, over 2,000ft elevation but it was beautiful and the views breath-taking.

Claire and Captain Beany mid run

Beautiful scenery on route

Still smiling at mile 22!

At mile 22 we met with my husband who came and supported and snapped us outside a church. Sadly, my London Marathon app was almost 6 miles behind and so I was thankful that I was doing the ultra.
 
When we arrived back at my home, I still had 5 miles to do as I was aiming for 50km and knew that I would need to do these last miles alone. I refused to stop as I knew my legs would stiffen up and so when my friend left me, I continued on.
 
That last 5 miles alone were so hard. I was tired and my legs had gotten heavy but I refused to give up and was determined that I was gonna finish. I passed a group of ladies outside a café and they all cheered me as I ran past and this made me fill up. Those last 5 miles were such a leap from marathon distance. I recorded a Facebook live too as it helped me through, and I did a last minute plea for donations and having the virtual support helped me carry on.
 
Running along the road to my house I started to fill up again… I HAD DONE IT! I had completed my 10th marathon and my first ultra marathon on day 195 of my run streak. Such a proud moment. I also had a medal and Champagne waiting for me as a reward for the blood, sweat and tears.
 
My message to you all, we have one life so go after your dreams. You may be scared of failure but until you try you will never know what you’re capable of. I am still on my run every day streak and today is day 225. My goal is to hit at least a full year.

Claire at the end celebrating with her medal

Claire’s watch showing the ultra miles she ran!