Rosie pushes to the limit in ultra marathon
A WOMAN from Ardrishaig completed a gruelling ultra marathon last weekend, finishing 10th in her category.
Rosie Doull, who now lives in Dundee, took part in the Highland Fling 53-mile ultra marathon at the Scottish Ultra Marathon Championships on Saturday April 28.
The route took Rosie from Milngavie to Tyndrum, following the West Highland Way across Loch Lomond and over the Conic Hill.
The race was a huge jump in distance for the keen runner, who previously ran the 37-mile Speyside Way Ultra Marathon in August 2017.
Rosie, who has been training for several months for the event, said: ‘After a 6am start, I was feeling strong and on track for my goal time, until about 30 miles in when things went a bit pear-shaped. The terrain got very technical, quite rocky with lots of tree routes, and I struggled and slowed dramatically. I’d also had an upset stomach from early on in the race, so I was feeling pretty low at this point.
‘I could have easily given up at the next aid station, but there was no way I was giving up, especially not after the months and months of training I’d put into it. I was going to finish this race, even if I had to crawl.
‘I just pulled myself together, looked up and appreciated the beautiful trails, the gorgeous lochside scenery and reminded myself of why I was doing this; because I love running and because I wanted to push myself further than I ever have before.’
Despite having a few rocky moments earlier on in the race, Rosie managed to sprint down the red carpet with the crowd cheering her on.
She continued: ‘It was hands down the best race I’ve ever experienced. I had an amazing day. It was a great experience, with great weather, great volunteers, great organisation and, all in all, a great race.’
Rosie finished 16th lady overall and 10th lady in the female senior category. She is now motivated to take on the Devil ’O The Highlands Ultra Marathon, which takes place in August.