Start a blog!

The Runner told me to start a blog about being his back up. 'You've done it loads of times, people will be interested in reading it!' So here goes......

This is my 7th year of providing back up for the wonderful event known as The West Highland Way Race. Every year at the prize giving I say 'I'm not doing this again next year' (much like the runners!) But once the car's been cleaned out, the running kit sterilised and the midgie hoods put away, the Travel Inn has been booked and Dario has cashed the cheque, we're in it again.

In our vehicle there's me, the driver. If anyone has watched the DVD Closing Distance, I'm the moo who yelled at her son 'Get in the car NOW!' at Kinlochleven. In my defence I had gone 32 hours without sleep, it was raining and The Runner had asked for something I didn't have ready. And having a guy with a camera in your car is NOT fun.

Our back up runner is The Bearded One. Sadly he doesn't drive but more than makes up for this by providing the cooking facilities (and bacon butties at Rowardennan). In the early years, The Bearded One's wife also accompanied us. Known as The Hippy Chick, she has a fondness for red wine and is allergic to midgies (this fact will be relevant later!)

Sometimes we have another driver/runner with us, The Railwayman. Also known for being a fast walker. He's used to working shifts and is valued for his ability to be an alert driver in the early hours. Unfortunately he is rubbish at hill starts (more on that later!)

With only 2 weeks to go until this years race I'll try to cover such topics as food (for The Runner and for myself), equipment, timetable/race plans and anything else I remember. I'll share our disasters (there have been a few) and funny stuff. If there's anything I miss, give me a shout and I'll add it in.

Good luck to everyone taking part this year, both runners and back up crews. As the saying goes, you don't have to be mad but it helps!