Running

Mental strength course... I can't imagine anything worse than running laps of Dorney - at least its flat! I'm sure I've mentioned it but I had a coach who used to make do 180-210km rides on a 30km circuit going past my front door every lap. He wanted to give me every possible opportunity to give up and go home - his rational(?e) being that if I could keep going after 5, 6 or 7 hours of whizzing past my bed and a nice warm shower, then I'd have no problem in races. Out and back courses are easy - if you stop you don't get home.

My last marathon involved a 1/2 marathon out'n'back course, which those doing the full marathon simply repeated. It saves on bodies for water stations (it was a tiny event).

As 90% of those taking part ran the 1/2, when I crossed the line people began clapping and handing me stuff. I had to say no thanks, and turn around. I dont think I've hated myself quite so much ever before.