Five Peaks Trail run 2025

When temperatures climb above 30 degrees for several days in a row, it’s easy to think summer might be making a comeback. But given that we’re in mid-April, summer is definitely behind us. These unseasonal highs can only mean one thing—it’s time for the annual Five Peaks Trail Run, running from Foxfield Oval in Athelstone to the scenic Belair National Park.

For some reason, this race is almost always unusually warm for the time of year—but in 2025, the weather was downright brutal. Some might even say it was too hot to be running an ultra.

The Five Peaks organisers and volunteers went above and beyond to support the 600+ runners across the various distances, showing incredible care and attention throughout the day. The top priority for any race organiser is ensuring everyone has a safe, enjoyable experience—and most importantly, makes it across the finish line in one piece.

For the ultra-runners tackling the 60km course, being ready for a long, hot day was essential. Preparation was key—not just physically, but mentally and strategically. A solid race plan, especially around hydration and pacing, was crucial to avoid falling victim to the intense heat.

Energy Giving

A former personal trainer of mine knew all too well how much I struggled with running ultras in the heat. The more I told myself I couldn’t handle it, the more that belief became my reality. So instead, she encouraged me to reframe the way I thought about the sun’s heat—not as something draining, but as something energising.

It definitely takes practice to hold onto that mindset when the sun is beating down on you, but shifting your perspective—focusing on the mental reframing rather than the discomfort—can help you turn things around in the moment. Suddenly, the heat becomes more bearable. Of course, that shift also depends on practical factors like hydration, pacing, and gear, but mindset plays a surprisingly powerful role.

Being Prepared

• Prioritise hydration, especially sodium and mineral replenishment
• Adjust pace based on effort, not speed especially on the climbs
• Wear light, breathable gear and plenty of sunscreen (remembering to reapply regularly)
• Stay alert to body signals – dizziness, nausea, cramps and anything else that may be a little off

I started the run carrying 2 litres of water and two 500ml bottles of electrolytes. With aid stations spaced roughly 9km apart—and the race starting with a steady climb combined with temps already pushing into the high 20s—being well-prepared and hydrated early on was absolutely critical.

I also made a point of starting my fuelling strategy early, taking on both solid food and gels right from the get-go. The goal was to stay ahead of the thirst and ensure it didn’t interfere with fuelling—a mistake that can really unravel your race later on. If you don’t feel like eating in those early stages, it becomes incredibly tough to make up for the lost calories, especially when your gut starts to struggle. Once that happens, getting back on track becomes a real challenge.

My fuel choices for the day were:

• Maurten gels & solid bars
• Cliff margarita sodium bloks
• Gluten free BBQ shapes
• Watermelon

This concoction of fuel options had been tried and tested in both training and previous races, so I knew my gut could generally handle it—as long as it was willing to play along on the day (because let’s be honest, not every race day is the same).

Over the course of the race, I went through about 8 litres of water and electrolytes—and only had to pee once! By the end, I looked like I’d been rolled in salt, a clear sign I’d been sweating out a ton of essential minerals. That’s exactly why replenishing with electrolytes isn’t just a good idea—it’s absolutely necessary.

Chaffing at the bits or is that the bits chaffing?

It was a hot and sticky day, with temperatures climbing steadily as the race went on. I had an ice bandana wrapped around my neck and ice cubes in my hat—but they didn’t stay frozen for long. Melting quickly, the water had only one direction to go—straight down.

To avoid the dreaded post-race burn, I adopt a few tried-and-true anti-chafing strategies. One big one: ditch the unnecessary seams, especially those found in underwear. I opt for lightweight, free-flowing shorts with a built-in seamless brief. Still, as the ice water trickled down and the hours ticked by, the chafing started to creep in – anything tight around the legs soon became noticeable.

Fast forward post-race and knowing the need to avoid the full horror show that can come with that first post-race shower, I generously slathered on some paw paw cream down below before stepping in the shower. That barrier makes a big difference—turning what could be a yelp-inducing experience into something just about bearable.

Chafing knows no boundaries—and it’s only when you step into the shower that you truly discover all the spots that took a beating during the race. Ah, the joys of endurance running!

No blisters

On the bright side, any excess water had long since evaporated before it reached my ankles, so there was no risk of soggy shoes leading to blisters. Thanks to my well-tested combo of Salomon Genesis shoes and Injinji socks, I walked away from this ultra with zero blisters and the happiest feet you could ask for.

What I have learnt about running in the heat

• Avoidance is futile; you must learn to be adaptable and pivot when required
• Focus on what you can control and let go of what you can’t
• Practice mental resilience; stay positive, focus on one step at a time and embrace the challenge

Always a good day out

I couldn’t help but smile throughout this ultra. I spent the first half on ‘pacing’ duties, running alongside a dear friend who bravely took on the challenge of her first official ultra. Unfortunately, the combination of heat and elevation took its toll, and her race didn’t go to plan. But the experience delivered so much more than a finish line ever could — valuable lessons, deep appreciation, and a clear understanding of what it truly takes to complete an ultra, especially in 35-degree heat.

Running makes me happy and the hurt of an ultra makes me even happier. I welcome the opportunity to stretch my comfort zone, to play with discomfort and even dance with fear. Stepping outside the familiar helps me uncover something deeper within myself, and I’ll keep pushing those limits until I no longer can. This is me, living my Planted Life.

The power of training

Running an ultra-endurance event is a serious challenge, and it’s important to recognise that no matter how well you prepare, there will always be unexpected hurdles throughout the day. The time will be long, and the issues that arise can multiply, despite your best efforts to control them.

The key to navigating these obstacles lies in thorough training. By focusing on all aspects of what it takes to endure an ultra, from the physical to the mental, you’ll be equipped to handle whatever the course throws your way. My coaching approach ensures that you’re ready for every element of the race – even those you don’t think you will need.

Do you have an ultra-endurance event or challenge that both excites and scares you? Reach out to me today and let’s discuss how I can help guide you every step of the way from start to finish (line).