Regular Tri247 contributor, Colette O’Neill, had a busy, but successful weekend at the Merrel Iceman. Opting for the off-road 12k instead of the off-road duathlon may have seemed like the easier option, but the 12k exceptionally tough, hilly run tested even the fittest runners. Colette sent us this report on her victorious day at the races.

The Iceman cometh … but not quite as anticipated, with a definite lack of frostiness, a super location with a bit of mud thrown in and what proved to be pretty cool event with warm and friendly support. Human Race presented the Merrell Iceman on Saturday at the Frimley army training ground, kicking off the Merrell Off-Road Series.

The morning dawned bright and cool as I prepared for the 12k trail run, which started prior to the off-road duathlon. A few other runners gathered near the start in readiness with a couple of ladies outdoing the men on the organisation and courage stakes by standing on the frontline. The pre-race apprehension was palpable, particularly when exchanging brief words with the other girls present - some of whom were steeling themselves for what they perceived lay ahead. But we reassured ourselves that we were all there to have fun!

A flat start then became an undulating single-track type path; somewhat deceptive given the short, sharp hills that followed. However, it was a beautiful day for a race, and the wooded and natural surroundings were a pleasure to run through. The hills really were sharp and challenging and required digging deep to ascend without walking whilst the downhills required stride-shortening and the odd groovy dance move to protect ankles and avoid slips. Still, no ice though. But then a big fat wet ditch appeared that couldn't be avoided, with a photographer there to catch your expression as the pong arose from your squelches and splashes.

Suddenly I heard a runner warning he was on his way but was then surprised to see the furry muzzle of a spaniel whizz past, closely followed by the runner seemingly flying along on the dog-lead behind. I muttered to a nearby competitor that the doggy man had somewhat of an advantage over us! More ups and downs and varied footing followed, from stony trails to soggy grass with an adverse camber to keep you on your toes.

Lap one (of two) passed by transition and the duathletes were there to cheer on the runners as they waited for their start. The duathlon run course was separate from our run, we were actually running their bike loop, so there were no clashes on route. The second lap was very similar to the first, funnily enough, but with a marked energy deficit the hills now seemed even tougher and the ditch even smellier. I had passed a couple of ladies but wasn't sure who was in front, and as I neared the finish I glanced behind on a corner to check what I needed for the final push. I had a shock as I saw a girl not far behind, so pulled out the stops and stretched out to the line. Glad to finish but I did enjoy the run! The varied selection of pooches at the end, athletic and not, were also a dogtastic treat for the animal lovers.

Prizes were allocated on the finish line and the very close car parking meant an efficient change into warm clothes. Refreshments were available and portaloos on site tidied up all the loose ends.

Overall a typically well-organised event in a lovely setting, with no sign of ice and one not just for the men! All the ladies I spoke to afterwards had enjoyed their race, despite some anxious preconceptions - from complete off-road newbies to those having competed here before and including a female boxer who road-ran just for fitness, it was smiles all round for the girls. The friendliness of the competitors is also notable, which seems to be part of the culture of muddier multisport events.

Next up is the MudMan duathlon on December 5th – where I bet there will be some ice.