So almost a marathon completed now as you arrive at the back end of Inchanga. And the goal is to reach the ultra distance of 56km, because that is where the race really starts...
Why do we give this short 12km section of the route it's own little slot, you might ask. Well, look at the profile - The Big Dipper - deserves it's own little mention don't you think??
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| Inchanga to Botha's Hill - 40km-52km |
A long, steady climb awaits you. The first real hill of the Comrades down route. Welcome to Inchanga. This climb is actually the back of Inchanga - the real Inchanga hill will be there for you next year.
A good time for some run / walk tactics to get over this one. Burning it up here will certainly be paid for later. And despite it being a down run, the big hills are yet to come.
A painted Indian head on the rock face (would be on your left, which is the side where your watch normally goes) marks the top of the hill. This is the emblem of the Natal Canoe Club, who were clearly out of the water when marking this spot. When you see this, you know you're at the top. (If you don't see it, you'll still know because the road starts to drop...)
Down to Drummond
Just after the first real up, is the first real down.
Just over 2.5km of steep falling, along a winding road. The views over the valley are spectacular. The beating your legs are receiving is not at all pretty. Take it slow down here.
You might find it worthwhile to criss-cross the road as it winds downhill, trying to stick to the inside racing line. The camber along this section can also be punishing. And watch out for cat's eyes in the middle of the road!
Halfway
The crowds can be seen, and music and cheering can be heard. You are almost at the halfway point! And then the road seems to turn left, and veer away from it. Later, you will get there. The road will bring you back.
The halfway point is full of spectators, cheering crowds, loud music, and TV cameras. Smile.
You are halfway! And it is a down run! How difficult can this be??
The feeling of success of having come this far is short lived. The adrenaline and excitement of going through halfway is not quite enough to get you up the next hill.
Wall of Honour, Arthur's Seat
Leaving the halfway point behind you, you suddenly realise you were conned into believing this is a down run. You immediately start climbing and winding your way up and out of Drummond. The crowds thin, the music fades, and your spirit dwindles.
In respect to those name plaques which make up the wall of honour, have a little walk. Then jog a few hundred metres to Arthur's seat. Legend has it that this is where Arthur Newton would sit, admire the view, and have a rest. Remember to tip your hat and greet Mr Newton as you pass. Drop a flower on the seat and move on. (Fact is, this is a small cut away in the rock. I am sure many a runner has sat here, unable to see any view past the bushes and rocks on the other side of the road, and thought to himself 'WTF - I am knackered')
Onward and upward!
Alverstone
The Alverstone radio mast is your target. Still a long way up the hill. You probably spotted this tower from Umlaas road, some 30km back. And now you are nearly there.
Strange how this hill is not part of the 'Big Five'...
The crowds now start filling the road, and will be there for the rest of your journey into Durban.
After Alverstone, a small drop takes you to the next climb of the day:
Botha's Hill
You might not even notice the drop before Botha's, but you will come to realise the climb up. It seems like it goes on forever. It feels like you've been climbing since you left Drummond.
The jolly young chaps from Kearsney college will greet you at the top and cheer you on towards Durban. You might be feeling tired at this point, but spare a thought for these lads, spending the day in the blazing sun dressed in school uniforms. Personally, I would rather be running.
The roughest and toughest part of the Comrades down run is now behind you. 12km of gruelling pain and hard work. As tough as this section may be, it is the most scenic part of the course. Take it easy through here, and don't leave it all on the road... yet.
We're nearly at the hind quarter.
Life's a journey - enjoy the ride. Just don't ride in one of those bailer buses.
Cheers,
Andrew.
Part 1
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