Ultra-marathon star Ann Ashworth reveals what it took to win the women’s race at the comrades marathon.
WAS I CONFIDENT I WOULD WIN THE COMRADES?
Yes and no. On the one hand, I had undertaken serious training in the build-up to the race – my body was as lean and strong as it could be. But on the other hand, there were factors I feared had the potential to end my Comrades dream. Three weeks beforehand, I had been diagnosed with severe anaemia; and with only two weeks left to go, I picked up a stomach bug that lasted five days.
The Comrades is an integral part of South African running culture – it’s the ultimate human race. I planned to run it since I was a child, and achieving a gold medal was my ultimate dream.
I ’ve never been particularly fast, because I have the build of an endurance runner: I’m lean, light, and I can hold a consistent pace for a long time, but I’m easily pipped over short distances. Besides, I find running in solitude for long periods of time helps to relieve stress.
This story is from the August 2018 edition of Runner's World SA.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August 2018 edition of Runner's World SA.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
LONGOVERDUE PRAISE FOR THE RUNNING SINGLET
In the last decade, the running singlet once reserved for amateur competitors and professional athletes - has gone mainstream, not only on race day but also on everyday runs.
RISE OF THE 'ILLEGAL RUNNING SHOES
Banned shoes emerged at a basketball court long before they found their way onto a marathon course.
CRACKING THE SLEEP CODE
Are you an early bird or a night owl? Perhaps you've assigned yourself another animal after completing an internet quiz. Research is shedding light on the link between well-being and circadian predisposition, but there's no need to rewire yourself. Learn to lean into your biology with our guide.
THE SECRET TO SPEED IS IN YOUP BLOOD
Some of the world's best runners credit this unorthodox Norwegian training method for their success. Is it right for you?
THE MIND OF MASSYN
IN 2024, LOUIS MASSYN WILL ATTEMPT HIS 49TH COMRADES MARATHON AND HE'S LEARNT PLENTY OF LESSONS ALONG THE WAY. HERE'S THE STORY OF HIS AMAZING JOURNEY.
TAKING CHARGE
OUTSPOKEN AND AMBITIOUS, NEW COMRADES RACE MANAGER (AND FORMER WINNER) ANN ASHWORTH IS LOOKING TO TAKE THE RACE INTO THE FUTURE.
A HALF CENTURY OF COMRADES
THIS YEAR, BARRY HOLLAND WILL BE AIMING TO FINISH HIS 50TH CONSECUTIVE COMRADES MARATHON. THIS IS WHAT HAS INSPIRED HIM.
MY RUNNING LIFE
ORDINARY RUNNERS doing EXTRAORDINARY THINGS
Ageing In The Age Of Strava
RECENTLY MY BUDDY Sean sent a text message that said, “Been running a lot of 5:30–6:00 kays early. It feels pretty nice at that pace.”
How To Start A Run When You Don't Feel Like It
I'VE ALWAYS FELT validation when reading a story about writers and their love of procrastination.
