On race day, please consider the power of the High-Five. I was dreading the Loop of Despair on my first Tarawera Ultra. I felt physically and mentally smashed when I approached it, and was having serious doubts about my ability to complete the race. The battle with my inner demons was interrupted when a runner suddenly approached me coming the other way - he had just finished the Loop and was heading for Kawarau. He said keep going mate, its not too bad up there, and he threw me a high-five. I instantly lifted. Mentally, I felt refreshed and positive. I actually started to smile. I completed the Loop and headed back out to the main course. As I neared the turning point I saw another runner, coming towards me this time, heading towards the Loop. I threw her a high-five and said keep going, youre looking fresh. She burst into a massive smile and picked-up her pace. On race day there is only one spot where you get to see those in front/behind as they come towards you. It is called the Loop of Despair, but I found it the most inspirational part of the course. Please consider throwing a stranger a high-five - youll both get a lot out of it :-)
Posted on: Thu, 08 Jan 2015 02:16:40 +0000
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