So, picture this: I’m sitting at my computer, minding my own business, when suddenly an email arrives that takes me on a wild adventure. It’s an invitation from my friend Rhys Jenkins – race director of Pegasus Ultra Running, announcing the arrival of the PIGUM 30 mile Ultramarathon in Wales. Now, I’m no stranger to a good challenge, and I completed the The Pegasus Slam in 2021 (it previously included two canal races – and swaps in PIGUM in to replace one of them).
The PIGUM Ultramarathon isn’t your average race. It’s like a rollercoaster ride through the enchanting landscapes of Wales. With rolling hills, stunning vistas, and three big mountains thrown into the mix, this race is as beautiful as it is challenging. But here’s the best part: it’s also one of the friendliest races out there. You’ve got a whole community of runners who cheer you on, lend a helping hand, and share the most amusing stories along the way – and best of all – no time cut-offs – which was perfect for me as I was coming back from back injury. But even this promised to be a challenge for me with it’s 5,500 ft of elevation gain crammed into 30 miles.
I’m no superhero. I’ve had my fair share of setbacks, like a super-annoying back injury that made me question my running future. But hey, life’s all about bouncing back, right? So, armed with determination and a touch of stubbornness, I took on the PIGUM. I knew I couldn’t go from zero to hero in a day, so I took it one step at a time. And let me tell you, it was a wild ride. I learned that training can’t always be perfect, but it’s the journey that counts. Plus, it’s an excellent excuse to eat an extra slice of cake or enjoy a post-race pint guilt-free!
The PIGUM starts in Abergavenny – and it also made a perfect excuse to visit Wales again – which feels like our spiritual home. I love a road trip and with an Airbnb booked, our weekend promised to be a fantastic one. Having just finished a difficult and stressful project at work I was more than ready for a break and to rediscover ultrarunning.
If there’s one thing ultras teach you, it’s that you’re capable of more than you ever thought possible. It’s like a crash course in personal growth and resilience. Sure, there were times when I questioned my sanity, but crossing that finish line with a goofy grin on my face made it all worthwhile. Ultramarathons are more than just races; they’re transformative experiences that make you re-evaluate life, make healthier choices (most of the time), and approach challenges with a “bring it on” attitude.
Now, let’s talk about some of the characters I met along the way. There’s my buddy Rob (his vlog of the race is here), who, like me, has a knack for finding trouble and recovering from it. We ran the PIGUM together – unexpectedly, and we exchanged war stories while hobbling our way through the race. And then there’s my wife – Susie – who defies all logic by barely training yet always manages to finish these crazy races. I suspect she’s secretly a superhero in disguise. Oh, and with Vanessa they always seem to turn running into a comedy routine with their hilarious banter.
The views during the PIGUM Ultramarathon are mind-blowing. I’m talking about moments where you reach the top of Sugarloaf Mountain and suddenly feel like you’re on top of the world. The beauty of the Welsh landscapes is simply jaw-dropping. It’s like running through a postcard come to life. Just make sure you don’t get too caught up in the views; you might trip over a stray sheep or two (trust me, it happened).
Ultras are the ultimate fitness kick in the rear. They whip you into shape, make you feel alive, and give you calves of steel. But it’s not just about physical health; it’s about finding joy and balance in life. Running teaches you to enjoy the journey, celebrate the small victories, and embrace the occasional blisters and chafing as badges of honour. I also realised how much I had missed that dull throb of achiness in my legs that only comes after an ultra. It was encouraging (or a testament to my lack of fitness!) that I could get that great feeling after just a baby ultra. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to have that extra slice of cake I mentioned earlier (though perhaps I should take it a bit easier there with my ever expanding belly!)
So, if you’re up for a wild ride through the stunning landscapes of Wales, the PIGUM Ultramarathon awaits. It’s a race that will challenge you, and show you some amazing views. Embrace the hills, the camaraderie, and the occasional sheep encounter. And remember, in the world of ultramarathons, the journey is just as important as the finish line. How great it was to get a hug at the finish line from my favourite race director Rhys.
The morning after we went into Abergavenny to hunt down some breakfast. We bumped into Rhys, Cerys and son and friends. So obviously we went to breakfast together and obviously I ordered the biggest breakfast ever!
So, lace up those trail running shoes, channel your inner superhero, and get ready to conquer the The PIGUM 2024 • Pegasus Ultra Running in all its hilarious, breathtaking, and downright incredible glory!
What was your last race and what it teach you? Have you come back from niggles or injuries? Have you got any favourite races that you have done recently?
Let me know in the comments below – and it would help me out by sharing this blog post and subscribing to my Trainbrainauto Youtube channel where I put up running related videos, hints and tips of where to train, where to park, eat snacks and tips on the occasional mind hacks.
The Untraining Ultrarunner 