On Saturday 21 June, Tim Don will take part in the Asics ‘Outrun the Sun’ event – an epic attempt to circumnavigate Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe. Don, a former triathlon world champion, will form part of an all-star relay team, which also includes Xavier Thevernard (winner of last year’s UTMB), Jonas Budd (100-mile world record holder) and Thomas Lorblanchet (former trail running world champion). The challenge will begin at sunrise and end at sunset. In this 15-hour window, Don and co will have to cover 162km of mountainous terrain, passing through France, Italy and Switzerland. MR caught up with him to talk about this epic challenge, his preparation and why he thinks variety is key to successful running.
Why were you keen to take part in the Asics ‘Outrun the Sun’ event?
I’m a triathlete – so I’m a jack of all trades, master of none. As a bit of an endurance junkie, when I heard about the event, I just thought: “Wow, I’d love to be involved.” I like the fact it’s part of a relay, too, so we get to share out the pain!
Have you ever done anything like this before?
It’s certainly new territory for me. I used to do a couple of adventure races at the end of the season. I remember a point-to-point event in Thailand a few years back that covered about 40km, which was a good challenge. But I’ve never tackled anything of this grandeur. I just hope I don’t drop the baton!
What sort of training are you putting in to make sure you’re ready for the mountains?
Well, I live in Boulder, Colorado, which is 1,800 metres above sea level, so I’ve got the altitude aspect covered. But I’m certainly trying to add in a bit more trail running to my weekly training. I regularly head up to Magnolia Trail, which is 2,600 metres above sea level and has some great ascents and descents. On an average week, I’m running about 75 miles.
What’s your best piece of running advice?
Mix things up. Running has such variety and it’s important to keep things fresh. So don’t always run on road – head out to a trail or down to a running track. If you tend to do long, slow runs, have a go at something short and quick like a Parkrun. Variety will keep things interesting and ultimately make you a better runner.
You’ve posted a 28:56 10K in your time. Ever tempted to have a go at track running à la Alistair Brownlee?
Yes and no. When I was younger, certainly. Alistair’s a fantastic runner and was obviously tempted by it but he’s been suffering from injury as a result. I think his last race in Yokohama was the first time he hasn’t finished on a podium since he was born. But he’s about 15 and has time on his side; I’m not so lucky!
Have you ever been tempted to see what you can do in a flat road marathon?
You know what? I’ve never run a marathon. The first time I’m likely to run that 26.2 distance is when I have a go at an ironman triathlon next year. But I’d certainly like to have a go at a road marathon to see if I can post a decent time. I wouldn’t be in the same league as Mo or Chris Thompson, but I might have chance of beating Paula!
• Unfortunately, since the interview, Tim has had to withdraw from the team. But MR will still be covering all the action online and in the magazine
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