Daniel Bond on why the Kintyre Way Ultra keeps pulling him back, training and aspirations for his ‘final third’.
I am delighted to be returning to complete the 3rd and final leg of the Kintyre Way Ultra on 10th May, a race that holds a special place in my heart. As a passionate long distance runner who’s always seen a podium spot as the ultimate achievement, I’m not sure if it was the genuine disbelief or the sheer “oh my god” I CAN actually do this that pushed me over the finish line in first place in 2023. Like any long distance race it really is an emotional rollercoaster and even when my training had gone to plan, there were times my body wanted to give up and other points when my legs kept moving but my mind felt defeated. I vividly remember catching the person in front of me who said “that’s you up to second, mate, and first place is just over the hill.” I genuinely felt like I was in a Mario-kart game where I’d just been given the boost I need to move faster. It was like an inner strength that came from nowhere and a feeling I’ll never forget.
When I returned to complete the second leg last year I really hoped to be able to defend my title but having such fond memories of this particular ultra and the community who support it and all the other runners I knew I would enjoy the challenge regardless of the outcome. To achieve first place again was incredible and humbling because the route was different and as luck or global warming would have it, it was the hottest day of the year – not something my usual wet and windy runs prepare me for.
Kintyre was not my first ultra marathon but definitely one of my most enjoyable. It’s a great combination of distance, scenery and challenging terrain. The more you run in the Scottish hills the more you appreciate their beauty. Both times I’ve done this race the weather has been amazing and even though long distance running can seem lonely at times, nobody wants the company of rain and midges!!
I maintain a training plan of gradually upping my miles throughout the winter from January towards spring and always include at least one long run (15-22miles) and a weekly speed session on a track with my local club Springburn Harriers. My long run is usually relatively slow but I make sure to include plenty of mixed terrain and elevation to help me prepare for Kintyre. Pacing myself throughout the race comes down to discipline, I need to focus on my own race and what I’ve trained to do and not be distracted by those running around me. Having fuel in the tank towards the end to pick up the pace and finish strong gives me so much satisfaction that I’ve done the very best I possibly can.
The timing of this event was perfect for my West Highland Way training last year and I would highly recommend anyone whose long term goal is to achieve a 100 miler to give Kintyre a try – you won’t regret it. The hardest part for me personally, apart from getting permission from my wife to sign up to ANOTHER race, is always fuelling myself properly, especially when it’s an early start! I find solid foods like small boiled potatoes, streaky bacon and flapjack work better for me than isotonic gels that can make me feel quite sick. I have learned the hard way over the years that when I start to feel hungry or thirsty it’s already too late, prevention is always better than cure and this is even more important if we get another hot sunny day.
The best part for me is crossing that finish line and feeling part of the most amazing community whose support is unmatched. The effort displayed by everyone involved and the volunteers creates such an accessible and family friendly event I am proud to be taking part again. I am especially excited to be bringing my own family with me this year to support and join in the fun but, having reached that podium in leg one and two of this event my son’s expectations are high – pressure is on!!
