Double marathon

I have been out for a four mile walk to Verwood and back to drop off my library books and to get a bit of a stroll in before setting out for the 24 hour walk at midnight tonight. As much as I wanted to stretch my legs a little, it was also an opportunity to check out the things I am taking.

The first lesson was that the library books were quite heavy! It was a much lighter load on the way back. It was also a reminder that I have to carry this stuff all round the 50 miles plus I will be covering and it is possible I will end up nearer 60 miles if I can keep going for the full 24 hours.

Out goes the lightweight rain coat which is superfluous with having the cape. It is quite heavy but will keep me dry and the rucksack too. There is the running backpack which is just the right size for the drink bladder to fit inside. It can carry up to 2 litres of water and the tube means you don't have to keep getting the drink out of the rucksack etc. That is going to be the heaviest item but it will get lighter as I walk before being refilled when opportune. Keeping hydrated is going to be a key part of making the full distance.

I am going to be wearing my cape and waterproof leggings when setting off at midnight, as the forecast is dire for the first 12 hours or so. That means the rucksack will just have snacks of energy bars, pretzels ( for the salt), trail mix, apple and banana plus buffs,, spare socks, boxer shorts in case of chafing), beanie hat, fingerless gloves, wet weather leggings, blister kit, headtorches, ibuprofen, ear buds, phone and charger. 

During the walk I remembered I had a belt for a drink with a small zip compartment too which I'd tried to use when running. It was a present I think. It wasn't something I got on with when running, the bounce of it proving annoying, but I think it could work during the walk. I can easily get to some key things using it.

So here we are now with 12 hours or so before I set off. The donations have started to come in more quickly now and I am close to £250 with the promise of more to follow. That will help keep me moving and will make a difference to Little Hearts Matter. 

I am excited and looking forward to it but there are genuine worries about the distance and length of time. The biggest worry I have is cramping up or stopping and struggling to start out again. Pace is another issue. I want to keep it steady but without going too quickly. Walking more slowly than the normal pace is also tiring though, so I have to be sensible and be conscious of what I am doing.

Fingers crossed!!