A round-up of 2013 from Stefan Klincewicz – a relative newcomer to ultra running who racked up an impressive tally of medals!
How did 2013 go for you and what have you got planned for 2014?
On reflection, 2013 was a busy year of running which included 13 Marathons and 9 Ultras! The key highlights were running both my first and second 100 milers with Centurion Running. The Thames Path 100 in March was absolutely brutal due to the weather conditions. The South Downs Way 100 in June was a very different experience and one which I enjoyed tremendously. Having a pacer for the night-time section who knew the area/route really helped. I wear the belt buckles for both events with pride. I did sweeper duties on the North Downs Way 100 for the first 25 miles, hard work! It gave me great insight to what happens towards the back of the field (I’m a mid-packer myself).
I took part in two Ultras new to the calendar this year; Race to the Stones and The Downs Link Ultra (Sussex Trail Events) in October which wins my vote as the best newcomer.
I must also mention XNRG’s Druids Challenge which I’ve now run two years in a row. Like Centurion Running everything runs like clockwork, with a great race director/team behind the scenes.
In 2014 I’m running the Marathon Des Sables in April, and have my name in the hat for the UTMB with a backup plan of the T184 if unsuccessful.
I’ve meet some fantastic people during the year most of which I now call my friends. What a great community Ultra runners are. Thank you for everyone’s support and encouragement during the year.