One down in RUN AMUK Challenge for Nikola Ramsden

Imagine running non-stop for 100 miles (161km), off-road, alone, through the night and with shifting weather conditions with which to contend.

Now try and convince yourself to do that four times in a calendar year and you could join Ballito ultramarathoner Nikola Ramsden in attempting the crazy RUN AMUK Challenge.

The feat of endurance sees runners take on the Addo Elephant Trail Run, Ultra-Trail Drakensberg Race, Mac Mac Ultra and Karkloof 100 Miler, the first of which Ramsden completed last weekend.

And if that was not enough, she grabbed a bronze medal too, finishing in a time of 30 hours and three minutes.

“We took off at 1pm in 40°C Eastern Cape heat, so that was really challenging to start with, but once we got underway I felt really good about the race,” said Ramsden.

It was her second time taking on the Addo run and fourth 100 miler completion overall, with Ramsden citing prior knowledge of the course as a huge advantage.

“Last year was really wet but it wasn’t as bad this year. We still had a crazy lightning storm at 6pm of the first day however, and a knee-deep river crossing every three or four kilometres,” she said.

Ramsden had run with a partner in previous 100 milers, but this time she was left to her own devices for most of the journey, accompanied only by the sounds of wild animals in the Addo Elephant Park.

With Addo claiming a big 7, including Southern Right whales and Great White sharks because the reserve extends to the ocean, there were also hours upon hours of beautiful vistas to take in.

“The event was really well organised, with aid stations at every 10 or 15 kilometres. While the stock up on food and refreshments is obviously crucial, just being able to talk to people and break up the run makes a big difference.”

Ramsden’s finishing time was her fastest yet and should pave the way for strong results at the UTD in April, the Mac Mac in May and the Karkloof in September.

At time of print she had not yet decided, but might add another Comrades Marathon in for good measure.

When not running herself, Ramsden is coaching the next generation of endurance runners.

“I have a genuine passion for running and want to help others discover their own. I coach everyone, from beginners looking to finish their first 10km right up to a squad that takes on ultras.”
To find out more, visit coachedbynix.co.za.

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