North Face 100 Thailand – Race Report

Almost a week has passed since the North Face 100 Thailand 2014 and much have been said about it already. Well organized, great atmosphere, many participants, scenic course and an indeed impressive 100k winning time of 8:35 hrs by Vlad Ixel. I think the race’s slogan “Break All Boundaries” fits well for a lot of runners last Saturday, especially those completing the 50 and 100k distances. Respect!

We (Team Brooks Thailand) stayed at a hotel nearby the start. Newly awakened, just after 3 AM, I heard a familiar tune. Outside my door was Bryan with a blinking headlamp, dancing and singing along with the song Kung Fu Fighting. Apparently it was time to go to the race venue. The 50 and 100k runners started at 5 AM, I felt both admiration and pity when we watched them taking off in the dark.

I was signed up for the 25k race myself. The race was wrapping up the harder training period I had before starting my 3-week taper for the marathon on March the 2nd. This was only my second trail run ever, but this course probably suited me better than the Columbia Race a few weeks back. TNF’s 25k route had some technical parts and tough elevations, but it also offered longer flat stretches where I could run fast.

The steep inclines were obviously not very fast, but I shifted to neutral gear on the way down, just rolling down the hills. A bit out of control at times, but I enjoyed it and managed to stay on my feet. I am in good shape and felt strong, ran hard yet relaxed and I even took note of Khao Yai’s beautiful scenery. Finished in 1.40.37 and grabbed 1st place. (All results)

[table]
My North Face Thailand 2014 in Numbers [attr colspan=”2″]
Finish Time, 1.40.35
Place Overall, 1
Distance covered, 25.1 km
Average pace, 4.00 min/km
Fastest Kilometer, 3.11 min/km (km 24 & 25)
Slowest Kilometer, 7.38 min/km (km 14)
[/table]

Below are two videos from the race made by Infinity Productions, more photos and other info can be found on TNF 100 Thailand’s Facebook page.