Bridlington endurance runner Karyn Hoggard has completed the punishing 110-mile Hardmoors ultramarathon over the bank holiday weekend, conquering soaring temperatures, exhaustion and difficult terrain in a challenge that tested both body and mind.
Karyn, who owns Tiffin & Co on Promenade in Bridlington, had previously spoken of her determination ahead of taking on the famous event, which follows parts of the stunning but demanding North Yorkshire coastline and countryside route. The Hardmoors series is renowned for pushing competitors to their limits with long distances, steep climbs and ever-changing conditions.
This year, the hot conditions added another challenge for runners.
Karyn said: “The heat forced me to change my game plan completely so I stayed with a couple of hours of strong running out of Filey to Ravenscar and then a lot of walking.”
She credited the support around her for helping her reach the finish line.
“My crew and support team kept me going, I honestly couldn’t have done it without them.”
Despite the physical demands of the course, Karyn said there were plenty of memorable moments along the way.
“Highs: the end, the cool night, oh and Roseberry Topping and The Three Sisters Hills of course,” she joked.
Food also became essential fuel on the journey.
“Cheese and pickle sandwiches are always my saviour! Dean, my husband feeding me and looking after me along the way.”
She also praised the support from communities lining the route.
“There was so much support running through villages like Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes and being cheered on, it was honestly fantastic and really pushes you on.”
There were difficult moments too.
“Knowing I still had another 10 hours on the course in the blistering heat, taking a bit of a tumble in the night and the fatigue from lack of sleep.”
But after 110 miles, Karyn summed it up simply: “Honestly an amazing experience despite the sunburn, the sore feet and the fat lip that’s appeared this morning!”
To donate….https://www.givey.com/karynshardmoors110ultramarathon
