Clear blue skies above the Deception Valley, at the start of a 31k run. Heard it was extreme, but no one could have prepared me enough. Beyond trail running. A lot un-runnable and scrambling across boulders, across streams, through and over roots and trees. Similar to Dusi in needing knowledge on where to go, which path to take, which not to. (more…)

Managed to manipulate sister Helen to join me. Driving companion, second, and live in chef. Choice. Roughly six hours of driving up the middle of the South Island. Arranged to meet a lad Sat morning to take me over the run route. Will be based at Christine McDonald’s spot outside the city. Nothing would be possible without help from so many.