104 to Cowes: Why?

At this stage we have mentioned our plans to do the Isle of Wight challenge to a few people, and after 'What is that?' the next question we usually get is 'Why?!' often swiftly followed by 'are you crazy?!'. Well, yes probably, but in all seriousness, why not? When we committed to our first half marathon  about this time last year, we weren't overly convinced by the whole long distance thing. We fully intended to cross that finish line once, but we were comfortable with the 10k distance and at that stage we were of the opinion that we may well be 'bucket list' half marathoners- just there to check the box before saying never again! We remained in that frame of mind until after we'd crossed the finish line on Abersoch beach, but within 2 hours we both knew we weren't done. Obviously the logical reaction would be to find another half marathon to train for, maybe even a full marathon rather than skipping straight ahead to an ultra. For this act on complete lunacy, I blame Dave! ;) One thing I have noticed just recently, is that with these types of pursuits he just can't wait. He see's an event he wants to do and he wants to do it NOW! not next year, now! Whilst I admire his enthusiasm and drive I have also joked on many occasions that it worries me. He seems to laugh in the face of training (not entirely, he does train)  and he's much less averse than me to pushing himself beyond his comfort zone and right there onto a ledge! Unfortunately for me, I have an unhealthy sense of adventure and seem to be easily led, and so... here we are. So far we have always come out ok, and I wouldn't have considered this if I didn't believe we were capable, but at the same time I am definitely aware that this will most likely be challenging beyond anything I can even imagine.
  That said, with an ultra marathon there isn't the same pressure to race the whole way that still exists unto marathon distance. the challenge becomes more about going the distance than shaving seconds off your time, its just a different animal all together.

Rae