The Ultra Challenge

I honestly have to say an ultramarathon was never on my radar. Signing up for the Capes 100 happened one crazy moment on a summer evening last August and the reality didn't sink in until training began this spring. Last weekend, I experienced one of the hardest physical challenges I have ever faced. The Capes 100 was held in the Mabou Highlands and Paul and I had signed up for the 46K run. As our first ultra, we selected the shortest distance and figured we'd see how it went. It will be one for the memory books for sure! My toes are now healed and the discomfort of the blisters is completely shadowed by the truly exhilarating feeling of putting your body to the test of physical endurance. There is nothing quite like it, really.

This was the fourth year for the Capes event, created by Nova Scotia Trail Running and one of just two ultra events that happen in Cape Breton. The distances are 46K, 86K and 160K. Let me say "hats off" to everyone who entered and I'm completely amazed by those runners who ran the longer distances. This year was particularly challenging due to high humidity and torrential rains. In my view, however, everyone is a winner because to complete any distance on this course with such challenging elevations is an accomplishment.

Next up is the Big Breton Backyard Ultra, happening September 21 in Coxheath. The format of this one is a bit different. It's a loop out and back, 4 miles in length and each loop much be completed in one hour or less in order to continue. The winner is the last person to complete a loop. The winner for the last two years was Tim Fitzgerald, completing 80.4km in 2023! Amazing!

Also amazing, were the other 99 runners who came out and did one, two, three or more loops of the course. If you want to challenge yourself, spend some time with other incredible like-minded folks and just come away feeling great (body and mind), consider introducing running to your life and maybe this event. Registration numbers are limited, but there are still some places remaining. Escape Outdoors is happy to be a 2024 prize sponsor.

Since opening EO in 2012, we've noticed wonderful growth in the running community. Everyone chooses their own path - recreational or competitive - and both will still give you the same health and mental benefits. Running is free, accessible to everyone and there are programs to help you get started. But, if you're not a "program" kind of person, you can easily get started on your own. Lace up and head out the door. You won't be sorry! Thanks for reading and happy running. :)

~ Sherry ~