When was the last time you ran to SAVE THE WORLD? For me, it’s been a three-year journey to finally reach the start line of the Pilliga Ultra 50k, and I was stoked to be there this year.
The Pilliga is Australia’s largest inland forest spanning over half a million hectares and the For Wild Places team host this event to encourage people to explore its rugged trails, connect with a community of fellow runners, and advocate for its protection.
The local Gomeroi people, among others, have been battling against fracking in The Pilliga for years, providing clear evidence of habitat destruction, gas leaks, and groundwater contamination.
Running has given me a chance to pursue a purpose beyond myself, using my body, mind, and voice for a greater good while inspiring others to safeguard our beautiful wild spaces and it was time to run!
My race strategy was to start strong, find my rhythm out front, and maintain my pace to the finish. It nearly went according to plan.
When the gun went off, I made the most of the first 8-10 kilometres of flat farm roads, a river crossing, and trails before tackling the first significant climb. I knew it would be tough because it always is, so I focused on the cause, the FWP team, and the significance of this race, all while pushing through the challenges with a smile.
I felt great as I ran hard, especially on the flats, and at the 20km mark, everything felt right. There’s no better feeling than running hard in a race and not feeling like you’re working hard at all.
At the 30km aid station, I noticed the second-place runner was only three minutes behind, but I kept my dream state alive, committing to push myself even harder over the next 15kms to increase my lead again.
My lead grew over second place, and I began to imagine the finish line hug with Hilary, the CEO of For Wild Places. I wanted to express my gratitude for everything she and her team have accomplished, and I imagined that too. It was all playing out in my head, and I felt really proud of myself and like I had done it.
As I approached the last 2kms which were flat, I couldn’t quite see the finish line, but I felt close. Then, I reached a gate that looked familiar from earlier on in the race, and my heart sank.
I screamed at the top of my lungs until my voice gave out, and then I screamed again and again until I wasn’t making any sound. Checking my watch, I saw "off course," and for a moment, I considered giving up and sitting down before I panicked and sprinted back to where I had made my wrong turn, just 2kms from the finish.
My legs felt utterly wrecked. The 4km detour not only allowed the second-place runner to take the lead but also sent my heart rate soaring and my legs into disarray.
I crossed the finish line in second place, three minutes behind the first, feeling broken, bewildered, and in disbelief. I had executed the best race of my life—well, 99% of it, anyway.
The Pilliga is a special place, a wild experience I want every human to feel at least once in their lives. I have spent my life outdoors running and exploring and the Pilliga has opened my eyes and shown me that there is so much more of our incredible country to explore, fall in love with and that needs us to run for it not just in it.
See you at The Pilliga Ultra next year!
Find out more about the work For Wild Places do and find out more about the Pilliga Ultra here.
