We should minimise our own future pain. But, as mountaineers and long distance walkers, we don't. Behavioral psychology could have some answers here. [1700 words, 8 min
It's all such jolly good fun for about seven hours then a "Why did I ever sign up for this?" Then, " I think I'll drop out," then "I'll never do this one again!" Then there's only six miles to go and the trail sweep has staggering you in hand. You come in last and there's a few people taking down the finish site and you get a smattering of applause. The ambulance drives away (mandatory at some ultras) but at least you're not in it. A friend takes your photo and it shows a shambolic human wreck with a dazed gaped-mouth look. And yet you register for next year's running just as soon as registration is open!
This is a book I didn’t finish. Now, I feel the urge to pull it out again. The temptation of one of the LDWA’s hundred milers tugs at me occasionally, but so far I’ve managed to resist!
It's all such jolly good fun for about seven hours then a "Why did I ever sign up for this?" Then, " I think I'll drop out," then "I'll never do this one again!" Then there's only six miles to go and the trail sweep has staggering you in hand. You come in last and there's a few people taking down the finish site and you get a smattering of applause. The ambulance drives away (mandatory at some ultras) but at least you're not in it. A friend takes your photo and it shows a shambolic human wreck with a dazed gaped-mouth look. And yet you register for next year's running just as soon as registration is open!
This is a book I didn’t finish. Now, I feel the urge to pull it out again. The temptation of one of the LDWA’s hundred milers tugs at me occasionally, but so far I’ve managed to resist!
It really is a horrible thing to do. Also you may not even get in as they tend to be oversubscribed!
If I ever decide to jump, perhaps I’ll get lucky and not get a place!
Thanks, it was a useful article