I took on Race to the Stones 2017 as my 4th 100k. I have decided to take on a long ultra every year, and for the 4th year I decided to try a threshold event for the first time.

Cost of entry is always high in these types of events, and what you find is you pay to cover expenses for a long period of time. These events are accessible to everyone, don't doubt yourself, if you want to take on this challenge, this is the type of organisation and event that allows you to achieve it. I do find that as one of the faster (relatively speaking) runners you often miss out on a lot of things. It's fine there is no other way of them being able to do it I guess, but some things could be improved which I will mention.

The registration is simple, and start straightforward. I was disappointed that there were no snacks or drinks at the start for participants which was a shame. When we started the course was narrow for the first few miles, and this was a regular occurrence for much of the first half on the ridgeway. Obviously there is not a lot the organisers can do about this, as the route takes on the oldest road in Britain, but it does cause congestion in places.

The course is beautiful and simple to follow, the signposts mean there is no chance of getting lost, so no navigation is needed.

The checkpoints were staffed with friendly volunteers, and kids making it great. These places were full of spectators to who were following their loved ones but cheering all. There were plenty of items to choose from at checkpoints. I could have done with some more Savory food towards the end. I'm sure many would have been fine, but personally I could have done with a sausage roll or pork pie, and have proper filling in sandwiches rather than chocolate or peanut butter. Again it would be fine for most, just didn't have what I would usually turn to, so I just had crisps and sweets.

The half way point was a big disappointment for me. There were loads of cakes but I didnt want more sweet. I had a bit of pasta that tasted good, but there were loads of empty sections which later were filled with food I would have loved. However I was told it would be at least another half an hour, and I wasn't particularly near the front. This is what I meant at the start, you pay the same but often get less if you go faster, which I don't think should be the case, especially as I know I took on much less than walkers do. The quality of food at the half way and end should be the same.

Apart from this the course was great, it was hilly, and hard, slippery in the clay and in places really difficult under foot, especially the last 10k. 

The runners were fantastic, the supporters where great, marshals at the check points were all lovely, and the end had a good spread actually... the pizza I had been longing for for the last 10 hours :-)

I was slower than I expected, but still enjoyed it. It didn't help that I took a fall in the first 20k.

I would recommend this as a great 100k for people to take part in.

I wrote a blog about it with more pictures and a more personal account so please feel free to take a look.

https://pickupthepacepaul.wordpress.com/2017/07/16/rtts-2017