Description

In this funny, photo-packed short read (11,000 words), George Mahood and his partner, Rachel, take on their longest run yet: a 100-mile ultramarathon along the chalk ridges of the South Downs Way. From blazing sunshine to long hours of darkness, the cut-off clock never stops.

This is ultra running at its most honest: excruciating blisters, emergency toilet stops in the bushes, too many crisps, dodgy stomachs, and the creeping realisation that signing up may have been a spectacularly stupid idea. There are meltdowns, feet so sore that every step hurts, stubborn cows, and the lift only the camaraderie of other runners – and the kindness of amazing volunteers – can give.

It's also a celebration of the South Downs Way and the best of the English countryside.

Told with dry humour and clear, honest detail about pacing, fuelling and mindset, Did Not Sleep is perfect for fans of trail running, endurance challenges, and true – to – life race stories you can finish in a sitting or two. The outcome – finish line or DNF – hangs in the balance right to the final pages.