Mission to Morocco - MDS 2011 by Birdypie

Well sadly its end of holidays for me today but I've had a lovely week off. Cambridge Folk Fest was brilliant again and I managed to miss most of the rain.

Forecast wasn't too great for my planned trip on the South Downs Way but I went for it anyway and it went really well. I took the train to Berwick and on day one used the beachy head marathon route but went backwards! First to Alfreston then on to Jevington and to Beachy Head itself. I got caught by a massive storm there and just had to stop at the pub! The last few miles were along the seven sisters and into Foxholes campsite - thankfully in beautiful sunshine. A lovely end to day 1. The lightweight tent was fine though not as warm as a 'normal' tent. The super lightweight stove was OK once i had managed to light the hexi tabs but that was a bit of a job. Dehydrated food - pretty grim but I had packed a mini green and blacks bar to have as a treat.

Day 2 was a monster and i headed out from Cuckmere to try and get to Plumpton - just over 20 miles I think. Legs were a bit stiff but OK and I was getting used to the pack weight- even managed the odd jog early in the day. I was a bit panicked about whether i would make it too my destination but eventually relaxed and just started enjoying a really stunning walk. It was a long trek and of course very hilly but the views and the sense of freedom you get on the Downs were well worth the pain. I stopped about four miles from Plumpton for a beer and realised i was way ahead of schedule so had a lovely relaxed stroll to Plumpton and a pint at the excellent Half Moon Inn. I stayed the night in a local farm - pretty basic camping but thats what it was about.

Day 3 was always going to be my easy day and I had a lovely stroll along the Downs to Ditchling Beacon finally descending at the Jack and Jill Windmills to head back to Hassocks station. I was really sad to be leaving but soon realised when I got on the train that I was shattered so quite relieved I didn't push on!

I haven't had too much rest since - a day off yesterday but today I was taking part in the Coasters Round Britain Relay. This has been organised by members of the Runners World forums who are taking Barry the Baton right round the UK. Barry arrived in Greenwich this morning and I helped take him down to Dartford. He's now heading off into Kent! I was running with some lovely people from Cambridge Harriers but goodness they don't mess around on the pace - I feel like i've had a good work out.

Really its been a fabulous staycation and I feel nicely rested - mentally at least! less than a month to the next marathon and only 7 weeks to the Atlantic Coastal so need to step things up a gear over the next few weeks.

Now though...time for an end of hols ice cream I think!

Happy running all!