THE LAST DESERT (ANTARCTICA)
ANTARCTICA'S ONLY MULTI-STAGE FOOTRACE

26 November 2024

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The Last Desert (2024) blog posts from Paul Redbourn

26 days to go !!! 31 Oct 2024

31 October 2024 05:13 pm (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time: Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London

Here we go again – another race, another set of nerves! But this one’s different, and I’m definitely feeling it. Previous races I found a routine, but Antarctica is a whole new beast.

Training’s been an adventure in itself – the Gore-Tex ankle snow shoes with spikes are only being tested in the mud. They say to train in similar conditions, but in the UK, “cold” just hasn’t been a thing lately. Completing 250km in Jordan means the legs are ready... even if the rest of me is slightly questioning reality.

Then there’s the look – I’ve been out in waterproof socks, backup Gore-Tex shoes & Polar glasses (ski mask was left indoors). I’m sure it’s been a sight for the neighbors. Running in layers? Sweaty, awkward, and definitely a new experience.

The gear’s ready: drop bag, food bag, backup everything. Sea sickness meds - Check. Although I’d like to avoid turning into a zombie on the 2-day voyage across the Drake Passage - I really want to be taking in the sights, orca/seal fights for example.

Books for the journey are sorted too – I’ve finished Shackleton’s adventure, and started Scott, but leaving some for the boat ride. All I need is for every piece of equipment to stay with me all the way to Ushuaia, where the Antarctic magic starts on November 26th.

Snow spiked ankle boots. Definitely a break from the norm! But if I'm going to step into the unknown, might as well have the footwear to match. Let’s see what Antarctica has in store!