One of our intrepid members, Ute Baird, regularly runs in ultra marathons.  (see our news item from last August when she took on the Swiss Irontrail 125K)  She recently took part in the Ultra Sierra Nevada race, coming 3rd in her age group and was the 7th woman home.  Well done Ute for another fantastic achievement!  Ute reports:

Last Saturday I took part in the Ultra Sierra Nevada 102km total ascend of  6050m and descends 4900. In the last 20km there are two vertical km. You pass the finish but first you have to get up 1000m in 4.4km on rough terrain incl mountain bike trails to the highest point of the race at 3100m and then back down over 7.4km.

It was very hot during the day in Granada (altitude 800m)  39 – 40 degrees. The race started at 12am midnight, it was a bit cooler but not that much. At altitude it was a bit better and some wind. I guzzled down 11 litres of electrolyte drinks in just under 20 hours and still was a bit dehydrated.

Overall it was a demanding technical race.  I came 7th in the women and 3rd age group.

First picture is at the beginning, a loop round Granada. Lots of steps. Great background the Alhambra Palace

The last climb being in a world of pain, my quats were hurting. But the I noted the camera man in this picture!

The smile at the finish is genuine!

Leaving for Chamonix on 29 July to prepare for the Ultratrail Tour du Mont Blanc 170km D+10,000m. Much easier terrain.