This was my first ever ultra marathon and I think it is a perfect first ultra. I always wondered what it would be like to do an ultra and run a bit further than a marathon and I am glad I took up the courage.

There were checkpoints every 5 miles which had water, lots of snacks, crisps, sausage rolls etc. There didn't seem to be any marshalls on route and I thought the crowds were limited but this is totally different to a road race.

The route starts on grass and then it runs along the canal for 15 miles and then you turn around, it's an out and back route. The course had tape along the route but I thought there should have been more arrow signs telling you which way to go as at times I wasn't sure which way to go and was having to ask other runners.

The ground was very muddy at times and I wish I had worn my trail shoes rather than my road shoes but I had no idea it would be that muddy! I was having to run/walk some of the time as I could feel myself sliding about quite a few times.

2017 was the 4th time I have taken part in the Stort 30. It is a great, no fuss, no navigation, flat, fast out and back race. It is a PB course without doubt having set a new 30 mile PB every time I have run it. It is a scenic river side race with the occasional lock to cross but all obvious and straight forward. Marshalls are great, friendly and very encouraging. The aid stations are perfectly placed every 5 miles with a good selection of sweets, biscuits, fruit, savouries and drinks. This is also a Trail Running Association middle distance championship race so a chance to gain a gold, silver or bronze medal in each age category. 

this was my first ultra and one of the best races I've participated in. Much more scenic and challenging than any standard road marathon.

the route is quite scenic, out and back following the route of the canal. Luckily there hasn't been much rain of late and so it wasn't particularly muddy, but still a challenge under foot in some areas. I completed it in standard road shoes.

i will be participating in other challenge running events, as this one was so well organised. Totally hooked on ultras now!!