Turning 33 marked a special milestone for me, and I decided to celebrate it in a unique and challenging way – by taking on the 3x3x3 birthday run challenge. Inspired by the infamous Goggins 4x4x48 that I took on last year, I opted for three days of three-mile runs every three hours. This experience would not only be a memorable celebration but also serve as excellent preparation for an upcoming Rasselbock Backyard Ultra.

The 3x3x3 Challenge:

The concept of the 3x3x3 challenge was simple yet demanding. Over three consecutive days, I committed to running three miles every three hours. This meant setting the alarm clock to get up in the dead of night, braving the cold, and heading out for a run. Each run took me approximately 40 minutes to complete, and I was determined to maintain a relaxed pace to prevent overexertion.

Fuelled for Success:

One of the keys to completing this challenge successfully was my fuelling strategy. I didn’t want to deviate from my regular eating patterns, so I continued with normal breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In between, I snacked strategically on foods like bananas, biscuits, bagels with peanut butter and jelly, dark chocolate, oranges, blueberries, and even popcorn. This balanced nutrition kept my energy levels consistent and ensured I had enough fuel for every run.

Preparation for the Backyard Ultra:

The 3x3x3 challenge was not just a birthday celebration; it was also excellent preparation for an upcoming Backyard Ultra. The Backyard Ultra is an endurance race where participants must complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour. The last person standing wins. The 3x3x3 challenge allowed me to practice running on a schedule, experience sleep deprivation, and fine-tune my fuelling strategy – all essential skills for the gruelling Backyard Ultra.

Embracing the Elements:

One unexpected aspect of the challenge was the weather. It took place during a cold snap, with temperatures dropping to as low as -7 degrees Celsius. However, with the right clothing and gear, this turned out to be ideal running conditions. I was thankful for the cold, as it was far better than dealing with wind and rain. Dressing appropriately ensured I stayed warm and comfortable throughout the challenge.

A Smooth Journey:

Surprisingly, I encountered no major issues during the 3x3x3 challenge. I attribute this to my commitment to taking each run easy and not pushing my body too hard. This approach prevented fatigue and allowed me to complete all 72 hours without any low points. It was a testament to the power of pacing and discipline.

Conclusion:

The 3x3x3 birthday run challenge was a memorable experience that not only celebrated my 33rd year but also prepared me for the upcoming Backyard Ultra. It tested my endurance, discipline, and adaptability, all while showcasing the importance of proper fuelling and pacing. With the right mindset and determination, I conquered the challenge and am now more confident than ever in my ability to take on the Backyard Ultra. It goes to show that sometimes, the best way to celebrate a birthday is by pushing your limits and embracing the unknown.