Mission Accomplished. Fairfield Horseshoe EVERYDAY in February.
And he’s done!
Run the Fairfield Horseshoe EVERYDAY in February?
Done.
Massive congratulations and respect to staff member Ash who on the 28th February complete this challenge of running round the Fairfield Horseshoe EVERYDAY through February. So yes. 28 days straight.
In the 28 days, Ash has accumulated over 500km and tallied up over 26,000 metres of ascent. Staff members Ali and Chris along with some other local friendly faces joined Ash to smash out his final round.
This was a personal challenge for Ash and one he wanted to use as a way to inspire the younger generation who may otherwise be struggling with motivation and confidence to get outdoors.
We have done a little Q and A with Ash on his recent achievement:
What (or who even) inspired you to start running?
The beautiful Lake District and fell running legend, Wendy Dodds.
What do you love about living and working in the Lake District?
I love the weather (some people think it’s raining and cloudy all the time in the Lakes, but for me it’s the perfect training ground) and how green and accessible everything is. I can go and do 4-5 summits in 1 day from my home without the need of travelling anywhere. The Lakes in some respect reminds me of back home in Nepal and the people are really lovely here.
The obvious questions many of us wish to know, why run the Fairfield Horseshoe EVERYDAY through February?
I ran the Fairfield Horseshoe everyday throughout February to inspire others and see it as a unique and personal challenge. I wanted to test my self-discipline and how committed U could be. It fell on the anniversary to when I started running and wanted to see how far I have come and how much further I could push myself.
What kept you motivated to keep going out and running the same route day after day (or night after night)?
I think what kept me motivated was the goal itself and knowing how big the challenge was. This was for everyone out there who may be struggling to get motivated and it’s my way of saying thank you to the people who have inspired me such as Wendy Dodds, Adriana Brownlee and Nimsdai. Without them I would not be where I am today. The challenging February weather as well was different every day and I wanted to break that barrier of getting bored. How can you get bored of running in the mountains?
Any moments you wish not to repeat? (For example bad weather or navigation errors)
That is a no because the weather gave me courage and sharpened my skills. Any fog, mist, wind and rain became my best friend and best training partners on some days. I was rewarded with cloud inversions, full sunshine and running under a beautiful blanket of stars.
Any specific kit items that you were super impressed with?
I was super impressed with my Scarpa Spin Infinity one of the best shoes out there along with the Golden Gate Kima RT . Clothing wise I really loved my Mountain Equipment Saltoro Jacket. I chose to go for something a bit heavier as with-it being February I was going to be exposed to some cold and wet weather and just wanted more reliable protection than that provided by something lighter. I learned that going light is not always the best option for harsh Lake District conditions. Various Mountain Fuel gels gave me on-the-spot energy.
Did you manage to stay injury-free?
I do not know how, but yes. I did think it was because I was giving 99% everyday, not 100%. I didn’t want to give it my all as I knew I would be back out the next day. I am so glad I managed to stay injury free. Having been a chef for 8 years, I feel this really helped with making sure I made good food. Eating right is key and I can’t also forget my superfood. Milk!
Any advice for those getting into mountain running?
My best advice would be just to get out there every day if you can, no matter how far, or even 3-4 times a week. Don’t always feel the pressure of what others are doing and the likes of what you see on Strava etc. Go at your own pace. Mountain running is about being out there, with the elements. There really is nothing better.
What’s next? Any races or further challenges like the one you have just completed?
I have the Lakeland 50 in July. I am also in the process of joining Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team. I might also consider doing the coast-to-coast the first week of April. Hopefully I can continue to motivate and inspire others along the way!
Last question - we want some stats! How much distance and what ascent did you tally up in total through February?
As of February 28th, I have done about 511km and 26,500m of ascent.
Ash - well done, we are all super chuffed for you!
