Enduring the Blackall 2024: A Journey Across Sacred Land
The Blackall 100 is not just a race; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and determination. This year, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the 50 km event alongside my good friend Drew Miller. Completing the race in just under 9 hours was a monumental achievement, especially given the challenging conditions we faced.
Honouring Sacred Land
Running across the land of the Jinibara People added a profound layer of significance to the event. The Blackall 100 traverses sacred First Nations land, and it was a privilege to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this area. Acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land, we felt a deep respect and connection to the history and spirit of the place.
The Challenge of a Lifetime
On race day, the temperature was a scorching 32 degrees Celsius, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already demanding course. The Blackall 100 is renowned for its tough terrain, and this year was no exception. The event included a gruelling 1700 meters of elevation gain, featuring three particularly memorable climbs: The Bluff, Gav’s Gut Buster, and Delica. Each ascent tested our limits, pushing all to dig deep and scavenge for strength we didn’t know we had.
A Humbling Encounter
One of the highlights of the event was meeting the incredibly humble and unassuming Mel Hauschildt. Mel, a legend in the world of endurance sports, won the event with an astonishing time of 4 hours and 29 minutes. Her success across multiple disciplines is nothing short of inspirational. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to participate in a few of the same events as Mel, including Ironman Cairns, Ironman Melbourne, and even a parkrun at Noosa. Each encounter has been a reminder of her dedication and sublime prowess as I watched her fade into the distance of every event.
Sharing a brief hello with Mel at the Blackall 100 was a surreal experience. Despite her numerous accolades, she remains grounded and approachable. It was a privilege to share the same course with such an icon of Australian sport. Mel’s achievements are a testament to her hard work and the incredible support of her husband, Jared. Together, they make an unbeatable team, exemplifying the power of partnership in achieving greatness.
Reflecting on the Experience
Participating in the Blackall 100 was more than just a race; it was a journey of self-discovery and camaraderie. The support from fellow runners, the breathtaking scenery, and the sheer challenge of the course made it an unforgettable experience. Drew and I supported each other through the toughest moments, and crossing the finish line together was a triumph I know I will cherish forever.
The Blackall 100 is a reminder that with determination and the right mindset, we can overcome any obstacle. It’s about more than just physical endurance; it’s about mental fortitude and the bonds we form along the way.
Looking Ahead
As I reflect on this incredible journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences and the people who made it possible. The Blackall 100 has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I will use this experience to move forward with my training for Ironman Cairns in 2025.
For those considering taking on the Blackall 100, I can only say this: embrace the challenge, cherish the journey, and remember that every step is a victory.