From Lockdown Runs to a 12-Hour Ultra Victory: How Helen Fuelled 107.48km with BareFuel

Sometimes the best running stories begin in the most unexpected places.

For Helen, it all started during lockdown. A self-employed massage therapist and mum to two daughters, she found herself unable to work. Early morning runs became more than just exercise, they became a way to clear her head, stay positive and build a new passion.

Fast forward a few years and those morning miles have taken her to the top step of the podium.

Heart & Soul 12 Hour Festival

Helen recently took on the Heart & Soul Festival 12 Hour Event at Duridge Bay Country Park, where runners complete as many laps as possible of a 2.2-mile loop within 12 hours.

She completed an incredible 29 laps, covering 66.7 miles (107.48km) to take the overall victory.

Even more impressive, the race came just weeks after finishing 2nd female at the Priory 100K Ultra.

"After Priory I wanted to go further than 100km and do it faster."

Mission accomplished.

Race Day

Travelling to the event on her own could have been daunting, but Helen quickly found herself surrounded by a welcoming community.

"Everyone was so friendly, it was a fab environment. The first few hours went really slowly. I listened to podcasts and then switched to music. The marshals and everyone there kept you so motivated."

Like every ultra, there were tough moments.

"The last two laps were hard. My ankles were hurting from all the different terrain."

Despite the sore ankles and shins, her nutrition never became an issue.

Her Fuel Strategy

Preparation began two days before the race with a carbohydrate-focused diet.

• Rice and sweet potatoes in the days leading up to the event.
  
• Rice Krispies and a bagel with jam on race morning.

During the race, Helen kept things simple.

She prepared four bottles, each containing two scoops of BareFuel, swapping to a fresh bottle roughly every 45-60 minutes before mixing another with the same amount.

Alongside her drink nutrition she also ate:

• Cheese sandwiches
  
• Salted baby potatoes
  
• STYRKR bars while out on the course

It was a strategy that delivered consistent energy for 12 hours.

Why BareFuel?

Helen first came across Highland Fuel through recommendations from other runners.

"I had seen it recommended by other runners and the price was really competitive."

Since then it has become part of both her endurance racing and strength training.

"Absolutely, it's made a difference. I also use it on a morning when I strength train. The flavour isn't overpowering and it's easy to drink."

Perhaps the biggest compliment any endurance nutrition can receive is this:

"My stomach felt great throughout. Energy levels were good. It was my sore ankle and shin that slowed me down."

For ultra runners, avoiding stomach issues can often be as important as maintaining fitness.

Advice for Other Runners

Helen keeps it simple.

"Definitely try it. It tastes nice and it works."

What's Next?

There's no slowing down.

Helen has the Gateshead 10K Trail coming up at the end of August and is considering the Pilgrim 50K Ultra in September.

Looking further ahead, she's already planning to return for the 24 Hour Heart & Soul Event next year and has her sights set on tackling a Backyard Ultra.

We're incredibly grateful Helen took the time to share her story with us. Seeing athletes achieve amazing things while trusting Highland Fuel to keep them going is exactly why we do what we do.

Congratulations again, Helen, on an outstanding performance.