Diary of a Runner
Sanna’s Story
Sanna Duthie did the Montane Dragon’s Back Race® this year after winning a charity place through the Wales Air Ambulance. She fought hard, working her way through the field to finish 5th woman.
We caught up with her about her race experience.
How did you feel before the start of the event and on the start line?
I felt so grateful to have the opportunity to be there. I had my place donated through Wales Air Ambulance. The big step was just getting to the castle without breaking myself through the training. I was nervous, hoping that my training was good enough to get me to Cardiff Castle.
Was there anything you were particularly worried about?
I latched onto other people’s fears about Tryfan, but it was okay. On Crib Goch, I was shaking. I don’t know if I could have done it without the support of marshals and other runners. Once I got across that I thought, I have to complete the Dragon’s Back Race® now, because I don’t want to do that again. It became my ‘why’.
What was your daily routine like on the event?
I had read up on what to expect so I knew it was important to do your admin. I was so organised.
I’d put my bag out ready with my plate, cup and wash stuff. I would get chips, wash, get changed and get my bag ready for next day. Then I would relax, eat, and be back in the tent by 9:30pm.
Getting across Crib Goch was a massive highlight.
What were the event highlights for you?
Getting across Crib Goch was a massive highlight. I didn’t think I was going to do that bit – I thought I’d get timed out.
I had a tough first three days with the heat, but on day four, I found my stride. I was feeling better on my feet and the route just flowed. I got into camp earlier that day, so I enjoyed camp life a bit more.
The sunrise on day six was a highlight. It was the last day, so the sunrise felt like it was giving us a gift – it was beautiful.
I hadn’t looked at the results. I tried to get in before I needed a head torch. That kept me going. On day two, I told myself if I got in before 7pm, I could have a hot shower. I rewarded myself with little things like that.
It’s a mind game really. I’d never done anything like that before. I felt like I grew with it.
What kept you motivated?
Did you have any lows?
I never had any time where I really wanted to quit.
I was pretty low on day three after three days of the heat and terrain I wasn’t used to. I didn’t want to talk to anyone.
There was no big low though, just a lot of tiredness. I was so grateful to be there. Nothing was going to stop me (other than falling off of Crib Goch!).
How did you feel when you were on your own for hours during the event?
I enjoyed that time. It was good personal growth for me. If you’d asked me at the beginning how I would feel on my own, I would have said I wouldn’t be able to do it. But now I’ve found some inner peace. I found you can be on your own and not be lonely.
What was the camaraderie like on the event?
It was amazing. I loved how, no matter what your placing was, whether you were first or on the Hatchling, everyone cheered you on, and I cheered everyone on. I never felt like I was in a competition. I loved that. It can be quite hard sometimes to be competitive. The start was so calm and relaxed. I wasn’t trying to head off as quick as I could. It was the best start to a race I’ve ever had.
How did you feel on the final day?
I felt on top of the world. It’s just so euphoric – the last little adventure. It was bittersweet. It was nice to go back to reality, but sad as well.
At the finish, I started crying. Shane had to comfort me for 5 minutes afterwards – I was so emotional. I couldn’t believe I’d done it. I never thought I’d get the entry and then I didn’t think I’d complete it. I didn’t know I was mountain ready.
The fact I did it was so overwhelming. It was magical – like Disney for runners.
How do you feel now you’ve had time to reflect?
It’s changed me. I have a bit more confidence and belief in myself. I’m more likely to do things on my own. Before, I felt I had to do stuff with others.
I feel nothing’s ever going to beat DBR. It’s provided such a flame and motivation for a year
It’s one of a kind.
Watch the highlights from the Montane Dragon’s Back Race®
A year of training: Hugh's story
One year, 54 hours, 25 minutes and 5 seconds.
Hugh Chatfield stormed to victory at the Dragon’s Back Race® this year. He won by a margin of over 3 hours.
It wasn’t just his performance over the race that led to his success – it was the months of training and preparation.
Andrea Harwood ran the Dragon’s Back Race® in 2023.
Every footstep she took was hers and hers alone. But her energy was bolstered by friendship and camaraderie she shared with other runners out there with her.
Strong bonds that had been forged in the preparation for the race became unbreakable on the Dragon’s Back.
Friendships forged in fire: Andrea’s Story
If Not Now, When?
Perhaps you have enjoyed reading this article. Perhaps you are inspired enough to take part in the Dragon’s Back Race® yourself?
Shane Ohly recorded the following six very short films (ok… we should call them adverts!) with the media team over the course of the 2023 event week, and we hope that they inspire future Dragons and Hatchlings to come to Wales and take on the adventure of a lifetime.