Back With My Tribe: Six Days in Hungary

Last week I returned to multiday running after an absence of almost seven years, caused first by the COVID outbreak and then by my own medical issues, including a hip replacement in 2023.

Competing in the GOMU 6 Day World Championship at a lakeside venue in Balatonfüred, western Hungary, I completed 485.70km, or 301.80 miles, in the allotted time, and finished fourth in the M70 age group.

The weather was dry but hot and humid throughout, with temperatures peaking at 32°C on the last day.

Preparing for the heat

"I spent a total of over six hours in the Stromness Health Suite using the sauna and steam room, and that investment of time proved invaluable in helping me to compete in those conditions. It was great to be fit enough now to run these multiday events once again. It feels like returning to join my tribe.”

I also set a number of Scottish age-group records during the event.

The week as it happened

Daily reports were posted throughout the race, prepared by Alan Young from Sanday, with photographs from the course and voice messages recorded between shifts on the loop. The whole week can be read back on the race page.

Six days at Balatonfüred: the heat, the recovery routine, and the course at night. Photos: William Sichel

With thanks

I am grateful for financial support from the Athlete Travel Awards Scheme, funded by sportscotland, Orkney Islands Council and Orkney Builders.

I would also like to thank my virtual crew: Alan, Dan, Erika and Jessica.