Having run the iconic Routeburn track a few years ago I wanted to experience doing it under race conditions. I knew that I was going to be in for a tough day, so I had prepared accordingly making sure that this article didn't become an excuse or moan fest.
The track is a favourite among the hiking community with soaring mountain peaks, huge valleys, waterfalls and jewel like lakes (so says the dept of conservation). It connects the Fiordland National Park with the Mount Aspiring National Park. The cost of this beauty is elevation. The highest point of the track is 1255m above sea level, meaning that I was going to be doing some climbing. I had to be prepared for some serious vert and then be able to withstand some unforgiving terrain coming back down on tired legs.
My preparation was perfect. I came off a huge base after doing the Kepler Challenge in December. Did some rugged terrain training at The Goat in January, some stair and hill climbing at the Wild Kiwi in February, put some kilometres on myLogistics is a big part of the preparation for this event. Item one, secure an entry. We all managed to be one of the lucky 400, but others not so fortunate had to train while on the waitlist.
