Chasing The Void - 50 Mile Ultramarathon Documentary - Pennine Barrier 50 Ultra GB Ultras

"Pain, Joy & Potatoes" - For a more in-depth insight to my experience, read my article here - mia-oldroyd.medium.com/pain-joy-potatoes-running-a-50-mile-ultramarathon-pennine-barrier-50-gb-ultras-5e665479275e
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[@paulpurves484]

Brilliant effort Mia well done really enjoyed it.

[@lindastrawn3389]

So impressive. I was quite entertained by the constant laughter of your crew ! Your analysis of the first 10 hours versus the last three were eye opening. I had a bike ride go like that too. First 45 miles were some of best ride ever and then I bonked really badly and thought I would have to push the bike another 15 miles. You handled it like a champ. I especially appreciated your mental analysis afterwards. I’ve only run one marathon and that was 36 years ago Just resuming running and a 5 k is all I can handle. Your words will be treasured in my mental bank of mantras ❤. Best of fortune in the Scotland 100.

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Wow what lovely words Linda. I’m so glad you enjoyed. They are such legends! It’s funny isn’t it how soon that line of “ok this is no longer fun” appears. Unexpectedly. And how soon it can also just flip. Thank you thank you thank you. ❤️

[@mataruns]

Well done, Mia! I love your enthusiasm for life and for experiencing all that it has to offer! 🙌

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Thanks dude! Hehe, that’s the only way 😅

[@chloeemmawells]

Mia… you are INCREDIBLE. I love your insight into running and look forward to watching the rest of your journey unfold. Xx

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Awh Chloe thank you - that's lovely! I'm glad you enjoyed xx

[@shaunnicholson5389]

You asked, 'How am I going to run 100 Miles?" The simple answer is one step at a time. That does sound rather contrite and simple given all that goes into running a Miler but I would say that what I saw in this account you have posted plus your ponderings afterwards tells me you will do it. Only element not covered off in this 50 Miler was running through the night...and I am sure you have this sorted. Good luck and enjoy the journey of the 100 Miler. Remember: When you are deep into the race and everything hurts just ask yourself, 'Am I hurt or just hurting?'. Then carry on moving forward...

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Contrite and simple; but that's all the Truth is. Thanks Shaun. I love this. Yes, running through the night will present as a new experience, I've only ever ran up till 1am. Doing a run through the night doesn't seem all that worth it in training due to the lack of recovery and knock on effects, however, I'm planning on running 22 miles till 2-3am next Sat, to get some sort of idea. But really, there has to be a first time at some point, so why not have it as the race! I'm intrigued for sure.

[@shaunnicholson5389]

@@miaoldroyd8331 100% on the money, but I do like the fact you have a planned run for next Saturday. I found when doing a 100km this year that warm Milo and salted chips were a fantastic combination I would not normally have gone for so this was my 'go to' at each Aid Station during the night. The other thing to consider in this part of the race is headlamp. I personally run with an UltrAspire waist torch which 1) is super bright at my feet, 2) easy change of Battery but also last for 7hrs on second setting, and 3) I can freely turn my head which isn't feeling overburdened with a buff/cap/headtorch/sweat/cold/heat/crazy thoughts (jokes) and the light is still at my feet...where I need it when super tired. Sooooo recommend this if you can get your hands on one. It is the little things, the Plan B of liquid foods when real foods won't go in or stay down, the simple pack set up (like Sally Macrae does), the small adjustments ahead of time that will ensure you are as comfortable as possible. Be interested if you have a pain mitigation plan like taking Paracetamol as this is common amongst ultra athletes and also if your electrolyte product of choice works perfect or if you take salt tabs (i.e. Salt Stick brand).

[@miaoldroyd8331]

@@shaunnicholson5389that’s a cool insight - thanks I’ll take a look. I for sure do feel the burden of my head if I’ve had a headtorch on for 2-3+ hours. Feels like my brain is being squeezed out. So thanks. Yes, I’ve got tailwind as a back up & am also investigating soup.. any other liquid calorie ideas? Choc oat milk I also love, but unsure if that’ll be palatable by that point. Re pain mitigation, my current feels on it are to not take any, as I feel like it’s sort of blunting the experience… however haha - this is me sat down on a Friday morning in no pain, so we’ll see. I will have it with me, so I have the option. It just feels a little strange taking it & also not sure how I feel of being slightly out of tune with what’s going on; equally though, but that point, I’m sure it’s best to not be! Re electrolytes, I’ve had no problem with them so far. I had a proper sweat test done with precision hydration the other week, and I’m quite below average on sweat losses, I lose about 700mg per litre of fluid. I typically take a super low sodium electrolyte, but on this 50 I found even that gave me the feeling of ‘I need plain water’, and had less as a result & didn’t feel nauseous like normal the following days, so I think I’m going to take a little less. I’m fortunate in that I’ve never ever suffered with cramping or anything salt related (to my conscious awareness)!

[@derek_spear]

That was awesome Mia. It's wonderful to be able to follow you as you get ready for the 100 miler. I wish you the best of luck 🙂👍

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Thank you so much, I’m so glad you enjoyed 😊😊😊

[@andyisaacs4554]

Total badass Mia ......that was awesome and many congrats to you .......roll on the 100

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Hahah. Thanks Andy! Yes… 🫣

[@matsmith1984]

Great video, Mia! Well done. This was my first race and loved it. Such a tough course and learned a lot. Good luck with the 100 miler!! You got it.

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Ahh thank you and to you too good sir! So glad you enjoyed it, what an amazing day!! Thanks dude :D

[@trueredred859]

Well done Mia Kudos to your crew

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Thank you. Yes, without them it would be a different experience!!

[@Eddie-Spaghetti]

Best of luck on the weekend Mia rooting for you 👍 I’ve watched nearly all of your videos now after seeing this one come up in my recommended first. I think your great 👍 I even signed up for Penine barrier 50 next year after watching this video having done a number of marathons but no further than that so far but that all changes next year hopefully. I’ve already started training. Again all the best hopefully your recording your exploits and will put out another video just like this one so we can all see how you got on. Once again go smash it!!! 👍💪😀

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Ahhh Eddie thank you so much for this. This is awesome. How exciting you’re doing your first 50; PB has a special place in my heart as that was my first too. You’ll be so well looked after. It’s a beautiful route. Thanks so much for the lovely words. I’m so damn excited. My intention is to film.. but who knows! Haha. Thanks dude. 💚

[@JulieJackson-zp5yv]

A massive well done Mia you are an absolute inspiration.👏Your video was amazing to watch and you made it look so easy.I walked the 3 peaks last November with my daughter and couldn't even imagine running it.Its such a beautiful part of the country.Loved your support team too and I am sure they lifted you when needed.Good luck to you on your next venture 100 miles in Scotland.🏃‍♀️💪🙏🤞 Look forward to updates ❤️

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Awhh what a lovely comment. Thank you Julie - it’s a tough route for sure, kudos to you for walking it! It’s not easy thing. But beautiful and so worth it. Hehe. Thank you muchly. I’ll try and do updates 😃🙏🏻

[@johnnygb9201]

Mia. Wow! This was so excellent! It was such a ride. It was bright and funny, quirky and cheesy, but then deep, meaningful and REAL. Just what I needed to keep me going on my journey to my first Ultra scheduled for Jan of 24. I’m truly grateful to find this video!

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Ohh thank you so much Johnny. Means the world. What ultra are you doing?

[@DaveIrish66]

Fear is just a thought..... when you face the monster, it's no longer a monster ❤ so inspiring. Thx for sharing. Well done

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Thank you Dave. I’m glad you enjoyed ❤

[@mattjuchniewicz2243]

What a fantastic event it was again! Tough but such a beautiful course... Well done on beating your time from last year, fantastic effort! And, as always, great video. See you on the 100! 👍😁👍

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Ahh thank you Matt. You were out too weren’t you?! Congrats to you also 🎉🎉🎉

[@mattjuchniewicz2243]

@Mia Oldroyd I was indeed and thank you! Definitely coming back next year again!

[@chrisjones5192]

Well done Mia, good luck on your next adventure.

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Thanks Chris. 🙏🏻

[@northender2006]

Well done, congratulations.

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Thank you 🙏🏻💚

[@virtuocitygowf7272]

Really enjoyed that video. Thanks.

[@miaoldroyd8331]

I’m so glad 😁🙏🏻

[@sleepingdogfx6929]

Well done Mia. Great video of the race and of what it takes to complete these events. I saw you a few times during the race. Good luck on your 100 👍

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Thanks dude - really appreciate it. Hope you had a fun one. 🙏🏻😁

[@Tom-mcateer]

Great account of a great event Mia.. really tough route this and great preparation for your 100.. the girls who supported you where amazing.. this film encapsulates everything about the experience.. and the Pennine barrier..a race that you'll have glorious memories from for the rest of your life..the feeling you have in the following days of peace, contentment and reflection that you can only get from doing these challenges is a door that once opened has to be explored.. I call it the door marked summer and despite all the pain and suffering it puts you on the path to your soul.. Great seeing lots of familiar faces in the film especially the volunteers and Wayne and Ian at the end .. Wayne ( drinkwater) the race director is single handedly responsible for encouraging me five years ago to enter his events and drag myself from inactivity to thousands of miles and more than 20 of his and other ultra challenges.. He taught me that if you can overcome your inner fears that paralyse your dreams.. and just believe that you are capable of much more than you know..and put yourself on the start line.. everything falls into place..in a few weeks.... I'll be trying to complete the Chester 100 at the second attempt of trying.. full of fear and doubt as the day creeps closer..but trying to overcome and challenge ourselves is what life and running is all about.. DNF.. coming first or last.. none of it matters.. it’s the miles and time you spend trying to be the best version of yourself during the challenge is all that matters..good luck in Scotland..👏👏💙

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Ahh I love this Tom. So true, it’s like a pull to explore it that isn’t me.. it’s like a deeper sense of curiosity that has to be searched, the small/rest of ‘me’ doesn’t want to, is fearful.. but it’s like a calling from a higher power! v strange, but the most meaningful. All the guys are just great aren’t they. That’s cool that Wayne got you to do them.. what a guy. Great catalyst. You’ve absolutely got this for Chester, I relate to your feelings however also. I hope the experience gives you whatever you need. Best of luck. Is it the end of this month?

[@Tom-mcateer]

@@miaoldroyd8331 thanks Mia.. true words in your reply above.. yes it’s the last weekend of May.. 🤝

[@beibhinn8]

Well done Mia!! You made it look pretty easy... I love the combination of footage from you and your crew 😅 (they seem great)

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Hehe, thank you. They are the best w

[@miaoldroyd8331]

😁😁🙏🏻🙏🏻 **

[@MichaelODonoghueMOD]

Thanks for posting. I did Pennine Barrier this year and really enjoyed it. I was a bit slower than you so didn't see you. Well done. With 100 milera as long as you keep fuelling and take care of your feet you'll be ok. The darkness and running through the night is the biggest challenge I find. Lots of caffeine helps me and making sure you're with someone else if possible

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Well done to you too Michael! Yes.. indeed - I’m sure it’ll be the same for me too!

[@user-yn1vj7wx3i]

Looking forward to seeing you chase the void at Scotland 100, admittedly as a volunteer! I did the 50 last year and went through all the same emotions at just 16 miles, but it came back together and it was fantastic. I agree your body just focuses on the distance you are doing, you knew this time it was just 50, but in 5 weeks you know it is 106.

[@miaoldroyd8331]

I love that, especially that the emotions are sort of irrelevant re our abilities, but it doesn’t feel like that in them moments. Exciting.. I’m so excited to explore 106 miles of an entirely new route! Hope to see you there hehe. Although, I have no idea who you are and what you look like.. 😂😂

[@adyhumphrys2705]

Excellent running, Mia. Some great footage taken by yourself and your support crew. It looked like you enjoyed, I certainly did. Hope to see you next year.

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Ahhh thank you! Glad you enjoyed, I did!! Were you running also?!

[@adyhumphrys2705]

@@miaoldroyd8331 I did run it, thanks. I did very well, much better than anticipated - finished 16th and 2nd Vet 50 age group

[@Eddie-Spaghetti]

Hi Mia, just wanted to say an absolute valiant attempt overnight. To have ran for over 25 hours in that heat over them hills and mountains is an unbelievable accomplishment. You should be very proud of yourself the absolute vast majority of folks would get nowhere near that! Head up. Your a warrior no doubt! If you want to go again their is always another event/next year. Thanks for inspiring me. Keep inspiring everyone with your videos and all round positivity you show in your videos now to recover and smash it next time! 👍💪😃

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Hey dude, thanks so much for this. Means a lot. Continue we shall!

[@Eddie-Spaghetti]

This was great 👍

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Thanks Eddie 🙏🏻

[@UDR-Channel]

so glad to see this. i want to do this race so its great to get an idea of whats in store

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Would absolutely recommend. Route is fab + you’re in safe hands with GB ultras; always smooth!

[@trailsandbeers]

Well done!! It looks like your poles bounce quite a lot, I would get lighter carbon fixed length and a pole quiver to carry them on the back of the pack instead of the waist. Another great video, love watching your progress and hearing your thoughts. 👍

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Ahh thank you. Yes. The poles haha. I’ve tried many many things. I did buy a quiver but my bag didn’t have the right attachment, and this harrier bumbag is actually the best I’ve tried so far, and had the least bounce.. Thanks 🙏🏻🙏🏻💚💚

[@trailrunningphil]

Yeah really enjoyed watching that Mia. An incredible effort. Your support crew were epic! That tracker would of done my head in right next to your head like that!!! I guess you get used to it. Regarding the 100 miles, just turn up and do what you do. Doesn't sound like you judge yourself on finishing or being strong or anything like that. When are we ever any good at ANYTHING we do the first time? If you finish 100 miles then you will. If you don't, then you don't. So what. Are you planning to sleep?

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Hehe. Thanks! Ah it didn’t bother me at all! Absolutely. I’m open to whatever!

[@miaoldroyd8331]

Planning to sleep, no.. unless it’s really needed. Will try caffeine first, then music, cold water, then if not working, will have a quick Power Nap.

[@Mookiethedog]

Yo Mia...great "training" run. You have the best support crew! I just did a 25km April 22 and have a 50km on May 13 and had the same thought about doubling the distance. Your double is definitely a bigger leap but I think it's about pacing and staying within yourself. The fear is natural I'm sure heading off to such a great unknown, but hopefully a place of discovery. Your mom (I think) and your dog were such great parts of this. I often think while running and it's hard and hurts....that in a few hours I'll be in a warm shower wondering if I really did run a race. Your thoughts there really resonated with me. I think a key for your 106 will be having some great chats with your brain about pain, discomfort and tiredness. You're a real tough cookie mentally and it would be cool to be able to follow that debate! Congrats on such a great effort! I'm really looking forward to your big event and learning more about your perspective of pushing to these really cool and crazy limits! (Off to read your "Pain, Joy & Potatoes" article) Peace...and a big hug of support! You rock and you roll!

[@miaoldroyd8331]

I always look forward to reading your comments. Thank you.. A place of discovery for sure. And funny how we make the arbitrary distances mean something, you know? Like x miles is only far because of all the knowledge and concepts we have around distance. Concepts can help understand things but when things are beyond understanding it for sure creates fear; I kind like it though. I’ll do my best to document it, haha. I’ve got 3 friends who are going to be pacing me beyond mile 55, and gojng to put them in charge of filming/interrogating! Hug of support received. Thank you. I hope you enjoyed reading about potatoes!!

[@Mookiethedog]

@@miaoldroyd8331 the potatoes sounded amazing and probably were easy carbs! Thanks for your kind comment too. It’s great following your journey