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0:00:02 > 0:00:04- The last three years...
0:00:04 > 0:00:09- ..have been mentally, physically - and emotionally painful.
0:00:09 > 0:00:14- Yet, it's been one of the most - unbelievable journeys of my life.
0:00:15 > 0:00:17- I don't regret a second of it.
0:00:41 > 0:00:44- Over the past three years, - TV presenter Lowri Morgan...
0:00:45 > 0:00:48- ..has competed - in the world's toughest races.
0:00:49 > 0:00:53- Two ultramarathons - that were totally different.
0:00:54 > 0:00:56- This is her heroic story.
0:00:57 > 0:01:02- It all started in 2008 - with the Jungle Marathon.
0:01:02 > 0:01:07- A 140-mile event - of six stages over seven days.
0:01:07 > 0:01:11- I was totally self-sufficient - in the heart of the Amazon jungle.
0:01:13 > 0:01:17- To say it was tough - is an understatement.
0:01:17 > 0:01:19- They only supplied me with water.
0:01:20 > 0:01:22- This was my first ultra race...
0:01:22 > 0:01:26- ..and I'm just - a typical presenter from Wales.
0:01:28 > 0:01:33- I spent 18 months of my life - preparing for this race...
0:01:33 > 0:01:36- ..and I was so nervous - for those 18 months.
0:01:36 > 0:01:39- It was like walking - into the unknown.
0:01:39 > 0:01:44- I've learnt that there is no need - to fear the unknown...
0:01:44 > 0:01:49- ..because the most difficult step - was the first one.
0:01:49 > 0:01:52- The momentum carried me - through the last three years.
0:01:53 > 0:01:54- Come on, Lowri.
0:01:59 > 0:02:04- I lived, dreamed and had nightmares - about this race for 18 months.
0:02:05 > 0:02:08- I was determined - to work hard for it.
0:02:08 > 0:02:11- But where do you start - preparing for such a race?
0:02:11 > 0:02:14- I trained with the Royal Marines...
0:02:15 > 0:02:18- ..and ran along the beaches - of the Gower.
0:02:18 > 0:02:24- I walked the 60-mile coast - of Ceredigion in 24 hours.
0:02:24 > 0:02:25- It was difficult.
0:02:26 > 0:02:30- I had good days, - but I also had truly bad days.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36- I've been running for five minutes - and I'm already soaking.
0:02:36 > 0:02:39- It'll be worse in the jungle.
0:02:39 > 0:02:42- When I reached the jungle....
0:02:42 > 0:02:47- ..my fitness levels - matched those of an Olympic athlete.
0:02:48 > 0:02:49- I'd worked so hard.
0:02:49 > 0:02:53- I knew that I wouldn't be - the strongest or the fastest...
0:02:54 > 0:02:57- ..or the most experienced, - but one thing was certain.
0:02:57 > 0:03:02- I knew that I could work hard - and that is just what I did.
0:03:02 > 0:03:04- When I reached the jungle...
0:03:05 > 0:03:10- ..I felt like a student - facing an exam without revising.
0:03:10 > 0:03:13- Something odd happened - the night before the race.
0:03:14 > 0:03:18- It was as if someone had turned on - the light switch in my head.
0:03:18 > 0:03:20- I was ready for the challenge.
0:03:21 > 0:03:27- I was ready to step up and face - all that the race could throw at me.
0:03:27 > 0:03:32- Five minutes to go. The big moment - has arrived and my heart's pounding.
0:03:33 > 0:03:37- I'm so nervous and I'm sweating, - but there's no turning back now.
0:03:40 > 0:03:44- The race started with 126 - of the world's best athletes.
0:03:44 > 0:03:48- There were professional runners, - world champions...
0:03:48 > 0:03:51- ..and experienced soldiers - from the special forces...
0:03:52 > 0:03:56- ..and I was there with them.
0:03:57 > 0:04:00- I'm trying to keep up - with the natives.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03- The first day was a ten mile stage.
0:04:04 > 0:04:08- It was already 25 degrees Celsius - at seven o'clock in the morning.
0:04:09 > 0:04:14- We were warned to take it easy - on days one and two...
0:04:14 > 0:04:16- ..and not to overexert ourselves.
0:04:16 > 0:04:21- They didn't want the humidity - and heat to be too much of a shock.
0:04:21 > 0:04:26- As soon as I was under the canopy - of the jungle...
0:04:26 > 0:04:28- ..it was quite suffocating.
0:04:28 > 0:04:33- The humidity was unbelievable - and I struggled to breathe.
0:04:33 > 0:04:36- I was sweating so much.
0:04:36 > 0:04:40- I remember thinking - that it was unnatural.
0:04:42 > 0:04:46- I learnt from the experiences - of other runners...
0:04:46 > 0:04:52- ..that I should drink salt water - that contained electrolytes.
0:04:52 > 0:04:56- At the end of the day, - that was what kept me going.
0:04:56 > 0:04:58- That's nice. It's hot.
0:04:58 > 0:05:03- Many of the better competitors - had to retire from the race.
0:05:03 > 0:05:07- Unfortunately, some didn't drink - enough salt water....
0:05:07 > 0:05:09- ..while others drank too much.
0:05:10 > 0:05:13- As a result, - four people ended up in hospital.
0:05:13 > 0:05:16- Two of them - were fighting for their lives.
0:05:16 > 0:05:19- I'd never seen - anything like it before.
0:05:19 > 0:05:25- At the start of day two, I remember - telling myself to be very careful.
0:05:30 > 0:05:35- I looked at my watch and I'd been - running for 22 minutes, 46 seconds.
0:05:36 > 0:05:37- I was soaking.
0:05:38 > 0:05:43- I felt as if I was standing - in a shower, so I slowed down.
0:05:43 > 0:05:48- I had been warned prior to the race - about my heart defect.
0:05:49 > 0:05:53- I remember day two very clearly.
0:05:54 > 0:05:56- Just as on day one...
0:05:56 > 0:06:01- ..we had to run - through about ten swamps.
0:06:01 > 0:06:03- That was horrible.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07- I was worried about the ticks - and the anacondas.
0:06:07 > 0:06:11- I kept telling myself, - "Take one step at a time, Lowri.
0:06:11 > 0:06:16- "If you expect the worst, - things won't be so bad."
0:06:17 > 0:06:21- My feet were feeling the effects - of being wet all the time.
0:06:22 > 0:06:24- I was developing trench foot.
0:06:24 > 0:06:27- There were bruises - on the soles of my feet.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29- My toes were hurting...
0:06:29 > 0:06:33- ..because they kept striking - obstacle after obstacle...
0:06:34 > 0:06:35- ..and root after root.
0:06:36 > 0:06:40- It was awful. I didn't know how - I was going to survive the race.
0:06:42 > 0:06:47- The pain in my joints - made my eyes water...
0:06:47 > 0:06:49- ..because they were so swollen.
0:06:50 > 0:06:55- I'd spoken - to an ultramarathon expert in Wales.
0:06:55 > 0:06:58- He compared feet to car tyres.
0:06:58 > 0:07:03- He said, - "You have to look after your feet.
0:07:03 > 0:07:09- "It doesn't matter if you're quick - or physically and mentally strong.
0:07:09 > 0:07:13- "If your feet aren't right, - you won't go anywhere!
0:07:13 > 0:07:18- "It's like a puncture. A car - won't move if it has a puncture.
0:07:18 > 0:07:20- "You must look after your feet."
0:07:20 > 0:07:26- As a result, whenever I was - in pain, I would check my feet.
0:07:26 > 0:07:30- The Amazon is dirty.
0:07:30 > 0:07:34- It's so humid and so warm.
0:07:34 > 0:07:38- Even the smallest cut - can turn septic.
0:07:39 > 0:07:42- I tried to clean my body - as often as I could...
0:07:43 > 0:07:45- ..and to the best of my ability...
0:07:45 > 0:07:48- ..to prevent anything - becoming septic.
0:07:48 > 0:07:50- Come on, Lowri.
0:07:51 > 0:07:53- Good job, lady!
0:07:53 > 0:07:54- Good job, lady!- - Well done.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59- Two down - and that was far more difficult
0:07:59 > 0:08:01- The twigs are awful.
0:08:01 > 0:08:04- I've fallen so many times - and I'm covered in cuts.
0:08:04 > 0:08:08- There's one here - that's small but painful.
0:08:08 > 0:08:12- The bag feels as though - it's getting heavier.
0:08:13 > 0:08:18- My toes are really hurting. - I couldn't get down those hills.
0:08:19 > 0:08:23- I've always suffered with them. - You might have to burst a few later.
0:08:25 > 0:08:30- The trouble is that the skin - is coming off with the tape.
0:08:34 > 0:08:37- Have I got a blister?
0:08:37 > 0:08:39- Have I got a blister?- - No, I don't think so.
0:08:40 > 0:08:43- They look as if you've been - in a bath for a week.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47- I was feeling strong - at the end of day two.
0:08:48 > 0:08:51- I had taken it very slowly - during the stage...
0:08:51 > 0:08:54- ..and I finished - with a smile on my face.
0:08:54 > 0:08:59- But I was shocked to see people - lying down all over the place.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02- They were crying, - some struggled to stand...
0:09:03 > 0:09:06- ..and others were attached to drips.
0:09:07 > 0:09:08- This race was biting back.
0:09:11 > 0:09:15- It was a shock to see five people - leave yesterday.
0:09:15 > 0:09:19- Two of them are seriously ill - in hospital.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23- It underlines how dangerous - and how tough this race is...
0:09:23 > 0:09:26- ..and the importance - of caring for one's body.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30- The doctors called a meeting.
0:09:31 > 0:09:34- Everyone had to sign a contract...
0:09:34 > 0:09:39- ..stating the race doctors weren't - responsible for our personal health.
0:09:40 > 0:09:45- They have given us the chance - to end the race here.
0:09:45 > 0:09:48- I don't know what to do - at the moment.
0:09:48 > 0:09:51- At the end of the day, - you only get one life.
0:09:51 > 0:09:55- If this jungle - is too dangerous, so be it.
0:09:55 > 0:09:58- I've been forced to ponder - an important question.
0:09:58 > 0:10:01- It was a great excuse...
0:10:02 > 0:10:05- ..for me and many other runners - to pull out.
0:10:05 > 0:10:07- A lot did just that.
0:10:08 > 0:10:10- I thought about it - for a little while...
0:10:10 > 0:10:14- ..and realized I could never - hold my head up in Wales....
0:10:14 > 0:10:17- ..if I'd known that I'd used this - as an excuse...
0:10:18 > 0:10:22- ..to turn my back on one of the - biggest challenges of my life.
0:10:23 > 0:10:27- After no more than a minute - of considering the options...
0:10:28 > 0:10:30- ..I signed the contract.
0:10:30 > 0:10:35- I was back in the zone, - and 100% back in the race.
0:10:35 > 0:10:36- .
0:10:40 > 0:10:40- Subtitles
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0:10:43 > 0:10:45- Three, two, one...
0:10:47 > 0:10:50- Day three's stage was 26 miles, - the distance of a marathon.
0:10:50 > 0:10:55- Almost a third of the runners - had pulled out by this point.
0:10:56 > 0:11:00- I could cope with running a marathon - because that's what I do in Wales.
0:11:01 > 0:11:04- However, it was so frustrating...
0:11:04 > 0:11:08- ..because it takes seven hours - to run a marathon out there.
0:11:08 > 0:11:11- At home, - it takes just over three hours.
0:11:12 > 0:11:14- Those seven hours were torture.
0:11:14 > 0:11:19- This was the day that I started - to lose patience with the race.
0:11:19 > 0:11:24- I was questioning whether I really - wanted to do this race.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28- It's never-ending.
0:11:33 > 0:11:37- I've fallen - and hit my foot on a stump.
0:11:37 > 0:11:40- I'm sure I'll lose a nail tonight.
0:11:40 > 0:11:45- It's quite painful, - so I've taken painkillers.
0:11:46 > 0:11:50- It's now a mental battle.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54- We're only halfway through.
0:11:56 > 0:11:58- It's just really difficult now.
0:12:01 > 0:12:06- I had been climbing - for three days...
0:12:06 > 0:12:10- ..and it was going on and on and on.
0:12:10 > 0:12:14- It's difficult to imagine - the high mountains of the Amazon...
0:12:14 > 0:12:17- ..because they are hidden - by a canopy.
0:12:17 > 0:12:22- I'd reach what I thought was the top - and see yet another peak.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26- I had to keep going in this heat.
0:12:26 > 0:12:29- I was losing patience. - I hated the race.
0:12:30 > 0:12:33- I also hated myself - for agreeing to do it...
0:12:33 > 0:12:36- ..and for putting myself - in this situation.
0:12:36 > 0:12:42- I remember Eurwyn pouring chilled - water from the fridge over me...
0:12:43 > 0:12:46- ..and it was painful - because my body was so hot.
0:12:46 > 0:12:49- The water almost burnt my body.
0:12:50 > 0:12:53- It's terribly hot.
0:12:53 > 0:12:59- I can't find words strong enough - to describe the true conditions.
0:13:00 > 0:13:02- There's three miles - to the next checkpoint.
0:13:03 > 0:13:05- I ran past a school...
0:13:05 > 0:13:10- ..and all the children looked at us - in pure amazement.
0:13:10 > 0:13:12- It was great to see them.
0:13:12 > 0:13:15- Some of them cheered at us - to keep going.
0:13:16 > 0:13:18- That was so uplifting...
0:13:18 > 0:13:22- ..especially as my spirits - were very low.
0:13:22 > 0:13:27- I remember finishing that day - with a frustrated smile on my face.
0:13:28 > 0:13:33- I was glad to see the finish line, - but I was in pain and felt sick.
0:13:33 > 0:13:35- I was hurting.
0:13:35 > 0:13:38- The small cuts were turning septic.
0:13:38 > 0:13:40- How are you feeling?
0:13:40 > 0:13:43- How are you feeling?- - Terrible. That was difficult.
0:13:44 > 0:13:47- I tried to keep mentally positive.
0:13:48 > 0:13:50- I told myself - that I'd finished stage three.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54- I was halfway through. - There were only three stages left.
0:13:54 > 0:13:58- Then, Eurwyn - totally broke my heart...
0:13:58 > 0:14:01- ..by correcting me.
0:14:02 > 0:14:07- He said that I had only covered - a third of the race distance.
0:14:08 > 0:14:10- That really hurt.
0:14:10 > 0:14:15- How do you feel knowing you've - covered a third of the distance?
0:14:16 > 0:14:17- Pardon?
0:14:17 > 0:14:19- You're a third...
0:14:19 > 0:14:21- You're a third...- - Oh, yes. I know that.
0:14:21 > 0:14:24- I know exactly what I've got to do.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28- I feel sick so I've got to go. - I need sugar.
0:14:30 > 0:14:33- I walked away in a sulk.
0:14:33 > 0:14:38- That was a roller coaster - of emotions.
0:14:38 > 0:14:43- I was in pain, I felt sick, - I was tired, frustrated and angry...
0:14:43 > 0:14:48- ..and then Eurwyn told me - that I was tenth and I didn't know.
0:14:51 > 0:14:52- Tenth? Yeah.
0:14:54 > 0:14:57- You look more tired tonight.
0:14:57 > 0:15:02- I am very tired today - and I feel really dehydrated too.
0:15:03 > 0:15:05- My mouth was really dry.
0:15:05 > 0:15:10- I also felt light-headed. - I had to stop to put my head down.
0:15:10 > 0:15:15- I'll patch you up tonight - then you're away to go tomorrow.
0:15:16 > 0:15:18- Go for it!
0:15:20 > 0:15:24- I'm totally fed up with this race, - I must admit.
0:15:24 > 0:15:28- I'm missing home comforts - such as a toilet.
0:15:28 > 0:15:30- I haven't looked in a mirror - for five days!
0:15:31 > 0:15:33- I'm tired - because I'm not sleeping.
0:15:34 > 0:15:38- The hammock isn't very comfortable - and the camp is noisy.
0:15:38 > 0:15:41- We can also hear monkeys - screeching all night...
0:15:41 > 0:15:44- ..but the race is about to start.
0:15:44 > 0:15:50- Day four starts with a 200m swim - across the river...
0:15:50 > 0:15:53- ..followed by a 15-mile run.
0:15:55 > 0:15:57- I consider myself - to be a strong swimmer.
0:15:57 > 0:16:02- I've competed in Ironman races - and swimming is one of my strengths.
0:16:03 > 0:16:08- But swimming in fresh water - carrying 15 kilos on your back...
0:16:08 > 0:16:10- ..is horrendous.
0:16:10 > 0:16:12- It's awful.
0:16:12 > 0:16:15- It sucks every ounce of energy - out of you.
0:16:15 > 0:16:19- On top of this, you try - not to think about the piranhas...
0:16:19 > 0:16:22- ..and the other wildlife - that lives in the water.
0:16:23 > 0:16:26- You also try to keep your head - above the water...
0:16:26 > 0:16:29- ..so that you don't swallow - the dirty water.
0:16:30 > 0:16:35- I had to keep kicking - and keep moving.
0:16:35 > 0:16:38- That's just what I did...
0:16:38 > 0:16:42- ..but I wasn't smiling - when I came out of that river.
0:16:42 > 0:16:45- My feet were soaking - before the stage had started...
0:16:45 > 0:16:49- ..and my rucksack was much heavier.
0:16:49 > 0:16:54- The water was trapped inside - and I was trying to empty it.
0:16:55 > 0:16:59- I was constantly falling - during the race...
0:16:59 > 0:17:02- ..because there was one obstacle - after another.
0:17:04 > 0:17:10- I finished the day smiling - because I'd run through villages.
0:17:10 > 0:17:15- The locals were busy - going about their daily lives.
0:17:15 > 0:17:19- Children were taking baths in pans.
0:17:19 > 0:17:23- It was very humbling - to see their way of life.
0:17:23 > 0:17:27- Despite the smile on my face - at the end of day four...
0:17:28 > 0:17:31- ..my heart was pounding - and my stomach was churning...
0:17:32 > 0:17:37- ..because I knew that my feet - were in agony.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46- Great. Thanks, Gus.
0:17:46 > 0:17:48- Thank goodness, I had some company.
0:17:49 > 0:17:52- I'm halfway through - and I enjoyed that.
0:17:52 > 0:17:54- It was difficult, but I enjoyed it.
0:17:55 > 0:17:59- At the start of the stage, - I followed the two American women.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04- They both hold world records - in their fields...
0:18:04 > 0:18:07- ..so I stayed with them - for a third of the way.
0:18:07 > 0:18:13- I knew I couldn't keep up with them, - but I picked up a few tactics...
0:18:13 > 0:18:16- ..and I enjoyed it.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18- It has been a good day.
0:18:18 > 0:18:24- I can relax now and prepare - for the very big day tomorrow.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29- The penultimate stage - was the most terrifying.
0:18:29 > 0:18:32- It was 55 miles in 48 hours.
0:18:32 > 0:18:35- There were only 75 people - left in the race.
0:18:35 > 0:18:39- I had to pick my head up - and keep going, but I couldn't.
0:18:40 > 0:18:45- It was as if someone had attached - huge stones to my trainers.
0:18:46 > 0:18:50- I started to think - that I'd overdone it...
0:18:50 > 0:18:54- ..and had been too quick - over the previous days.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57- After running by myself - for five hours...
0:18:58 > 0:19:01- ..the race literally bit back.
0:19:01 > 0:19:05- I stood on a hornet's nest...
0:19:05 > 0:19:10- ..and they chased me - for about 100 metres.
0:19:10 > 0:19:14- I'll never forget the pain - of being stung.
0:19:15 > 0:19:19- It was at this point - that I was starting to lose it.
0:19:20 > 0:19:25- I was light-headed, - I was feeling sick and getting lost.
0:19:26 > 0:19:27- I was starting to cry.
0:19:27 > 0:19:31- I didn't want to stop - or sit down anywhere...
0:19:31 > 0:19:34- ..in case a snake was hiding nearby.
0:19:38 > 0:19:42- I picked my head up and thought...
0:19:42 > 0:19:45- Oh, I'm getting emotional now.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48- I thought - that I could reach the end.
0:19:50 > 0:19:52- Um...
0:19:53 > 0:19:56- It's odd, because when you reach - rock bottom...
0:19:56 > 0:20:02- ..and you think that there's - nothing left in the tank...
0:20:02 > 0:20:08- ..an amazing strength comes - from somewhere deep in your soul.
0:20:09 > 0:20:12- It pulls you - out of this depression.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15- It was a very spiritual experience.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18- I can tell you this - with my hand on my heart.
0:20:18 > 0:20:24- This was the point that my body - gave up, but my mind carried on.
0:20:24 > 0:20:28- Pure determination - carried me to the end of the race.
0:20:29 > 0:20:31- It was an amazing feeling.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33- Go on, Lowri. I love you.
0:20:33 > 0:20:35- Go on, Lowri. I love you.- - Thank you, and you.
0:20:36 > 0:20:39- As I left the jungle behind...
0:20:39 > 0:20:43- ..and started running - on the sandy tracks...
0:20:43 > 0:20:48- ..the magnitude of the event - struck me and I cried for hours.
0:20:48 > 0:20:52- I'll never, ever forget that.
0:20:53 > 0:20:58- I was pushing my personal boundaries - and finding new ones.
0:21:00 > 0:21:05- As darkness fell, - I joined a man from Brazil.
0:21:05 > 0:21:07- I'd never spoken to him before...
0:21:08 > 0:21:12- ..but somehow or other, - we kept each other going.
0:21:12 > 0:21:15- I crossed the finish line...
0:21:15 > 0:21:19- ..after 17 hours - of walking and battling away...
0:21:19 > 0:21:21- ..but I was smiling.
0:21:22 > 0:21:23- That was difficult.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27- There isn't an ounce of energy - left in my body.
0:21:28 > 0:21:33- I've hit my lowest point - and this is the high point.
0:21:33 > 0:21:38- I'm so happy that I've finished, - before midnight in particular.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44- The morning of the final day.
0:21:45 > 0:21:47- I felt sad.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50- I was looking forward - to crossing the finish line...
0:21:50 > 0:21:54- ..but I knew I was going - to miss the atmosphere.
0:21:54 > 0:21:58- I would miss the camaraderie, - and I still miss the Amazon.
0:21:59 > 0:22:03- I remember packing my hammock - for the last time...
0:22:03 > 0:22:06- ..standing on the start line...
0:22:06 > 0:22:10- ..and realizing that this - would never happen to me again.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12- Right, here we go.
0:22:13 > 0:22:17- I ran the final stage, - which was 22 miles...
0:22:17 > 0:22:19- ..in just over three hours.
0:22:20 > 0:22:24- When I think about the miles - I had already covered...
0:22:24 > 0:22:27- ..the temperature - and the weight I was carrying...
0:22:27 > 0:22:32- ..it's unbelievable to think - I did it in about three hours.
0:22:33 > 0:22:38- It shows how much I wanted - to reach the finish line.
0:22:39 > 0:22:44- When you think that you're about - to give up on something, then don't.
0:22:44 > 0:22:46- This is what I've learnt.
0:22:46 > 0:22:50- There was a small voice - inside me that was saying...
0:22:50 > 0:22:54- .."Keep going, Lowri, keep going."
0:22:55 > 0:22:59- I'm so glad - that I listened to that voice.
0:23:01 > 0:23:06- Some 126 runners started that race.
0:23:06 > 0:23:11- Only 50 completed it - and I finished in tenth place...
0:23:11 > 0:23:17- ..the third woman - and second amateur across the line.
0:23:17 > 0:23:21- I'd kept my emotions bottled up.
0:23:21 > 0:23:24- They had been churning away - for a whole week.
0:23:25 > 0:23:30- When I crossed that finish line...
0:23:31 > 0:23:34- ..they all came out.
0:23:34 > 0:23:36- Well done, Lowri.
0:23:37 > 0:23:38- Well done, Lowri.
0:23:41 > 0:23:43- Give me a hug.
0:23:45 > 0:23:47- Brilliant.
0:23:48 > 0:23:49- Brilliant.
0:23:50 > 0:23:51- Are you OK?
0:23:52 > 0:23:54- Let's take this off.
0:24:01 > 0:24:06- I've been thinking about this moment - for the last 18 months...
0:24:06 > 0:24:08- ..and now it's here.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11- It's such an amazing feeling.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14- After all the hard work, - I've succeeded.
0:24:15 > 0:24:20- I couldn't have given - any more to this race.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23- There's nothing left in the tank.
0:24:24 > 0:24:24- .
0:24:28 > 0:24:28- Subtitles
0:24:28 > 0:24:30- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:24:31 > 0:24:35- It took about five months - before I started running again.
0:24:35 > 0:24:39- I lost all my toenails.
0:24:39 > 0:24:42- I literally - couldn't wear my running shoes.
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- I was also suffering - with depression.
0:24:45 > 0:24:47- I missed the jungle.
0:24:47 > 0:24:50- I'd worked so hard for it...
0:24:50 > 0:24:53- ..and sacrificed 18 months - of my life for this race.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56- I also got married.
0:24:57 > 0:25:01- On the way home - from our honeymoon...
0:25:02 > 0:25:06- ..I turned to my husband and said - I was ready for another challenge.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14- I'd experienced - one of the world's hottest climates.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17- I wanted to see - how I would cope...
0:25:17 > 0:25:20- ..in the world's coldest conditions.
0:25:20 > 0:25:25- I knew the organizers - of the 6633 Ultra race.
0:25:26 > 0:25:31- I also knew that only five people - have ever completed it.
0:25:31 > 0:25:36- It's a 350-mile, non-stop race - over eight days...
0:25:36 > 0:25:40- ..within the Arctic Circle - in northern Canada.
0:25:40 > 0:25:43- I had to be totally self-sufficient.
0:25:43 > 0:25:49- Temperatures could drop - to -92 degrees Celsius in the wind.
0:25:49 > 0:25:54- We had to prove that we were ready - for the Arctic conditions.
0:25:59 > 0:26:02- I knew the toughest, - most experienced soldiers...
0:26:02 > 0:26:07- ..and the best ultra runners - in the world would be competing.
0:26:07 > 0:26:11- I lacked speed, experience - and the strength of character.
0:26:11 > 0:26:15- I ran 4,000 miles in a year.
0:26:15 > 0:26:19- It's the equivalent of running from - Wales to the start line in Yukon.
0:26:23 > 0:26:25- Once again, I was nervous.
0:26:26 > 0:26:30- I was worried that my body - couldn't last the course...
0:26:31 > 0:26:32- ..on such little sleep.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36- I was worried that my mind - wasn't strong enough...
0:26:36 > 0:26:39- ..for the monotony - and solitude of this race.
0:26:39 > 0:26:44- I was worried the extreme conditions - would get the better of me.
0:26:44 > 0:26:50- I hoped my body could function - on just sheer determination.
0:26:53 > 0:26:57- I'm shaking due to the magnitude - of this moment.
0:26:57 > 0:27:00- I can't believe that the race - is about to start.
0:27:00 > 0:27:04- It's a personal achievement - to reach this point.
0:27:04 > 0:27:08- It'll be painful and unbearable - but also amazing.
0:27:08 > 0:27:12- That's why I'm doing it. - It makes me feel alive.
0:27:13 > 0:27:17- Everyone has a dream, - everyone faces various challenges.
0:27:18 > 0:27:19- This is my challenge.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21- Yahoo!
0:27:25 > 0:27:27- I started the race - with Diane Van Deren.
0:27:28 > 0:27:33- She's a North Face athlete - and famous in the ultra race world.
0:27:33 > 0:27:38- I learnt a lot from her - during the early hours of the race.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42- I remember feeling anxious - because I'd started to sweat.
0:27:43 > 0:27:47- Sweat is one of the main dangers - in these races.
0:27:49 > 0:27:53- It freezes - and develops into frostbite.
0:27:56 > 0:28:01- When you remove a layer of clothing, - the body cools down very quickly.
0:28:03 > 0:28:08- I'm going to change this top...
0:28:08 > 0:28:11- ..and replace it with a jacket.
0:28:11 > 0:28:15- Gosh, my body has got so cold.
0:28:15 > 0:28:19- Dear, dear, dear, dear. - Oh, it's cold!
0:28:19 > 0:28:24- I really hope that I'm not making - a stupid decision...
0:28:24 > 0:28:28- ..and ruining my chances.
0:28:34 > 0:28:37- I arrived at the first checkpoint - in fifth place.
0:28:38 > 0:28:43- I'd completed 26 miles - in about six and a half hours.
0:28:44 > 0:28:47- I'd reached the Arctic Circle.
0:28:49 > 0:28:54- I'm totally humbled to be here, - surrounded by nature.
0:28:54 > 0:28:58- There isn't any pollution, - just sheer beauty.
0:28:59 > 0:29:05- I'm moving on to the next stage, - which is about 45 miles.
0:29:06 > 0:29:11- They say that this next stage - is the most challenging.
0:29:21 > 0:29:26- I'm currently gazing - at this stunning sunset.
0:29:27 > 0:29:28- It's wonderful.
0:29:31 > 0:29:35- However, - it's a bitter-sweet feeling...
0:29:35 > 0:29:40- ..because it means - I'm about to face my first night...
0:29:41 > 0:29:43- ..on the Dempster Highway.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46- It fills me with fear...
0:29:46 > 0:29:52- ..because I know - that Wright Pass is next.
0:30:01 > 0:30:05- I reached Rock River and learnt - that Diane had pulled out.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09- The surface was too hard - on her ankles.
0:30:10 > 0:30:12- I could empathize with that...
0:30:12 > 0:30:17- ..but it was a shock to hear - that she had retired after 50 miles.
0:30:19 > 0:30:24- Everyone in front of me - had chosen to sleep for a few hours.
0:30:25 > 0:30:30- The temperature was -35 degrees - Celsius with winds of 70mph.
0:30:30 > 0:30:34- That's a wind chill factor - of about -70 degrees Celsius.
0:30:35 > 0:30:37- It was too cold to stop. - I was in the zone.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41- I preferred - to tackle the mountains...
0:30:41 > 0:30:44- ..that were twice as high - of Snowdon, in the dark.
0:30:44 > 0:30:46- It was colder - and windier at night...
0:30:47 > 0:30:51- ..but I preferred not to be able - to see the enormous mountains...
0:30:51 > 0:30:54- ..and the never-ending highway.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58- It was mentally easier - to do it that way.
0:31:00 > 0:31:04- It was a long night, - a very long night.
0:31:05 > 0:31:08- I really struggled that night.
0:31:08 > 0:31:12- I had to wear four layers - around my head...
0:31:12 > 0:31:18- ..and made sure to cover - every millimetre of my face.
0:31:20 > 0:31:25- After 24 hours, I was so happy - to reach the second checkpoint.
0:31:25 > 0:31:29- On my schedule, - I had four hours to sleep...
0:31:29 > 0:31:32- ..but I slept for two hours.
0:31:32 > 0:31:38- I woke the film crew and told them - that I was going to continue.
0:31:38 > 0:31:41- I knew that I was taking a risk.
0:31:41 > 0:31:45- I'd never done a race that involved - so little sleep before...
0:31:45 > 0:31:49- ..but I knew that if fatigue - got the better of me...
0:31:49 > 0:31:54- ..all I had to do was take out - the bivvy and sleep on the roadside.
0:31:54 > 0:31:58- I remember being - pleasantly surprised...
0:31:58 > 0:32:01- ..by the scenery - that surrounded me.
0:32:01 > 0:32:06- I wasn't homesick - for my husband and family...
0:32:06 > 0:32:09- ..but I wanted them to be with me.
0:32:13 > 0:32:16- I was very happy out there.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19- I had settled into a rhythm...
0:32:19 > 0:32:24- ..and was getting used to the pulk - that was dragging behind me.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26- I was happy.
0:32:26 > 0:32:30- I led the race at this point, - but that wasn't important.
0:32:30 > 0:32:34- It was important - for me to control my mind...
0:32:34 > 0:32:40- ..and ignore the pain - in the soles of my feet.
0:32:40 > 0:32:45- Each time the support team - or film crew caught up with me...
0:32:45 > 0:32:50- ..I'd hear that another competitor - had pulled out or had fallen.
0:32:51 > 0:32:54- It was like a game of dominoes.
0:32:57 > 0:33:01- By this stage, - fatigue was starting to set in.
0:33:01 > 0:33:03- I was getting impatient...
0:33:03 > 0:33:08- ..and the clock - was moving very slowly.
0:33:09 > 0:33:13- I was having - some very dark hallucinations.
0:33:14 > 0:33:17- I was seeing dead bodies - on the side of the road.
0:33:17 > 0:33:23- I knew they were hallucinations, - but I had to turn my back to them.
0:33:23 > 0:33:28- That showed my mental state - at the time.
0:33:28 > 0:33:30- I was really struggling.
0:33:32 > 0:33:36- I reached checkpoint three - after 44 hours...
0:33:37 > 0:33:39- ..and only two hours of sleep.
0:33:39 > 0:33:42- Looking back, I still can't believe - that I managed to do it.
0:33:43 > 0:33:48- I covered 120 miles in 44 hours - with only two hours of sleep.
0:33:48 > 0:33:50- It's unbelievable.
0:33:51 > 0:33:54- I woke up - after four hours of sleep...
0:33:54 > 0:33:59- ..and heard that only three of us - were left in the race.
0:33:59 > 0:34:04- Tony Kelly, Matt Davies and me - - three Welsh people.
0:34:04 > 0:34:06- Thank you very much.
0:34:07 > 0:34:11- I knew that there was - a straight road ahead of me...
0:34:12 > 0:34:13- ..for 70 miles.
0:34:13 > 0:34:18- I asked Tony Kelly - if he wanted any company...
0:34:19 > 0:34:21- ..for the next stages...
0:34:21 > 0:34:23- ..and luckily, he agreed.
0:34:24 > 0:34:27- However, when we arrived - at Tsiigehtchic...
0:34:27 > 0:34:32- ..we learnt that we were - the only competitors left.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36- When we left checkpoint four...
0:34:36 > 0:34:41- ..Tony and I had been together - for 30 hours.
0:34:41 > 0:34:44- We had got to know each other - very well.
0:34:45 > 0:34:48- However, it was at this point...
0:34:48 > 0:34:52- ..that I realized our attitudes - were very different.
0:34:52 > 0:34:54- Tony spoke about the finish line...
0:34:54 > 0:34:58- ..and how the pair of us - would cross it together.
0:34:59 > 0:35:02- Yes, I wanted that to happen...
0:35:02 > 0:35:08- ..but I couldn't cope with the idea - of finishing this race.
0:35:08 > 0:35:13- I found it very, very difficult - to think about the finish line...
0:35:13 > 0:35:18- ..because we still had - 175 miles left.
0:35:19 > 0:35:22- This was the point - that I started to get emotional.
0:35:23 > 0:35:29- I'm struggling, because Tony and I - are the only ones left.
0:35:31 > 0:35:37- It's heartbreaking to think - that we're not even halfway yet.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40- We've completed 175 miles...
0:35:40 > 0:35:45- ..and there are still - 175 miles left.
0:35:46 > 0:35:48- My feet are in tatters.
0:35:50 > 0:35:55- That was a long night - - one of the longest of my life.
0:35:55 > 0:36:01- If I'm honest, my frustrations - were getting the better of me.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05- I could see - that Tony was getting tired...
0:36:05 > 0:36:08- ..and so was I...
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- ..so we stopped - at the side of the road.
0:36:11 > 0:36:15- I wanted to sleep on the other side - of the bank of snow...
0:36:15 > 0:36:19- ..but Tony was too tired - to climb over the bank...
0:36:19 > 0:36:22- ..so we decided to sleep - on the roadside for an hour.
0:36:24 > 0:36:30- When I woke up an hour later - and saw where we had slept...
0:36:30 > 0:36:33- ..I was furious.
0:36:34 > 0:36:36- I was so angry, not with Tony, - but with myself.
0:36:37 > 0:36:41- In the morning, - we chose to separate...
0:36:41 > 0:36:44- ..because Tony and I - were running at different rhythms.
0:36:45 > 0:36:47- Go, Lowri! She's incredible.
0:36:48 > 0:36:52- The aim was to meet - at Caribou Creek...
0:36:52 > 0:36:55- ..and restart the race together.
0:36:56 > 0:36:58- But when I arrived...
0:36:59 > 0:37:03- ..I learnt that Tony - wasn't going to make it.
0:37:03 > 0:37:07- I could have easily given up - at that point...
0:37:07 > 0:37:11- ..and still held my head high.
0:37:12 > 0:37:16- When my husband and family learnt - that I was the only competitor...
0:37:17 > 0:37:20- ..they thought the pressure - would be too much for me.
0:37:20 > 0:37:23- However, it was the exact opposite.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27- I felt stronger and happier.
0:37:27 > 0:37:33- I felt as if I was carrying - the hopes of the other competitors.
0:37:33 > 0:37:38- I could feel the support - of everyone at home.
0:37:38 > 0:37:42- I started my journey - from Caribou Creek...
0:37:42 > 0:37:46- ..with a massive smile on my face.
0:37:49 > 0:37:49- .
0:37:53 > 0:37:53- Subtitles
0:37:53 > 0:37:55- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:37:56 > 0:38:02- If anyone was to ask me about - the happiest part of the race...
0:38:02 > 0:38:06- ..I would have to say - that the happiest section for me...
0:38:06 > 0:38:08- ..was when I left Caribou Creek.
0:38:09 > 0:38:12- My pace had increased - and I was happy.
0:38:13 > 0:38:15- The energy had come back to my legs.
0:38:15 > 0:38:20- The pain was still there, - but I could live with it.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24- However, ten miles - from the end of the stage...
0:38:24 > 0:38:28- ..fatigue came calling once again.
0:38:28 > 0:38:33- I well and truly hit rock bottom.
0:38:33 > 0:38:36- The pain was too much. - I was sleeping on my feet.
0:38:39 > 0:38:45- Thankfully, David Smale joined me - and kept me going.
0:38:45 > 0:38:46- Thank you very much.
0:38:52 > 0:38:56- He gave up a night's sleep - to help me through this.
0:38:57 > 0:39:02- It's just so humbling.
0:39:05 > 0:39:09- I don't know why people - are willing to do it...
0:39:09 > 0:39:11- ..but I'm so grateful to them.
0:39:12 > 0:39:16- I came very close to giving up - at this point.
0:39:16 > 0:39:20- I had to remind myself - that the pain of failure...
0:39:21 > 0:39:23- ..would last much longer...
0:39:23 > 0:39:27- ..than the pain I was experiencing - at that moment.
0:39:30 > 0:39:34- I also tried to remind myself - of my reasons for doing the race.
0:39:34 > 0:39:39- To put it simply, I enjoy pushing - my mind and body to its limits.
0:39:39 > 0:39:44- I enjoy travelling the world - and seeing these amazing countries.
0:39:44 > 0:39:49- I enjoy meeting people - who encourage me...
0:39:49 > 0:39:51- ..who inspire me...
0:39:52 > 0:39:55- ..and make me search - the depths of my soul.
0:39:55 > 0:40:01- When I explained this to myself, - it made the race easier.
0:40:01 > 0:40:04- Give it some stick, Lowri.
0:40:04 > 0:40:08- I reached the final 120 miles - of the race.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13- I never expected to reach - that point of the race...
0:40:14 > 0:40:19- ..but I was preparing to walk - on the frozen Mackenzie River.
0:40:22 > 0:40:27- The film crew told me - how difficult it was for them...
0:40:27 > 0:40:30- ..to watch me struggling - as I started to walk.
0:40:31 > 0:40:36- However, they could see my body - build and grow.
0:40:37 > 0:40:40- My head would lift up - and I'd find my rhythm.
0:40:40 > 0:40:43- Within 30 minutes, - I would be back running.
0:40:45 > 0:40:49- When I reached the next checkpoint - at Swimming Point...
0:40:50 > 0:40:55- ..I could see why I was experiencing - so much pain in my toes.
0:40:55 > 0:41:00- The blisters had worked their way - under my toenails and were popping.
0:41:00 > 0:41:03- If I hadn't ripped - those blisters open...
0:41:03 > 0:41:07- ..I couldn't have completed - the final 50 miles.
0:41:07 > 0:41:09- Ouch!
0:41:09 > 0:41:15- I've got a massive blister - all the way around my big toe.
0:41:16 > 0:41:19- Oh, that's nice.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22- Relief!
0:41:22 > 0:41:25- My feet were in so much pain - on these stages...
0:41:26 > 0:41:29- ..because the road - was frozen solid.
0:41:29 > 0:41:33- Every time I reached a checkpoint, - I would check my feet.
0:41:33 > 0:41:35- They were black with bruises.
0:41:35 > 0:41:41- Imagine striking your hand - with a hammer non-stop for a week.
0:41:41 > 0:41:46- That'll give you an idea - of the agony I was enduring.
0:41:48 > 0:41:52- Amazingly, - with only 50 miles to go...
0:41:53 > 0:41:56- ..I felt as if I was - on the home straight.
0:41:56 > 0:41:58- I found a new energy from somewhere.
0:41:58 > 0:42:01- My head was up.
0:42:01 > 0:42:03- I felt positive.
0:42:03 > 0:42:07- I had found new energy - from somewhere.
0:42:08 > 0:42:14- I was smiling from ear to ear - as I approached the finish line.
0:42:14 > 0:42:18- I remember phoning home...
0:42:19 > 0:42:22- ..and saying, "I'm almost there, - I'm almost there!"
0:42:23 > 0:42:26- I said, "I love you," - and they said they loved me.
0:42:26 > 0:42:31- I was so proud of myself - that I'd overcome all my fears.
0:42:31 > 0:42:33- As I put the phone down...
0:42:33 > 0:42:38- ..I realized - that I was very emotional...
0:42:38 > 0:42:42- ..because this was the end of one - of the best adventures of my life.
0:42:43 > 0:42:49- It was an adventure - that I'll never experience again.
0:42:49 > 0:42:55- Only six people, including me, - have ever reached that point...
0:42:55 > 0:43:01- ..and looked into the eyes - of the Arctic and succeeded.
0:43:02 > 0:43:06- I feel very honoured.
0:43:06 > 0:43:09- I thought of everyone at home.
0:43:10 > 0:43:13- I wanted them to be there with me...
0:43:14 > 0:43:17- ..so that they could see - everything that I could see.
0:43:17 > 0:43:21- I was in pain, but I was happy.
0:43:22 > 0:43:26- I was surrounded by nature, - only me and the pulk...
0:43:26 > 0:43:29- ..walking hand in hand.
0:43:31 > 0:43:36- I knew how lucky I was - because I had survived this race.
0:43:39 > 0:43:42- And that I was on my way home.
0:43:45 > 0:43:48- I learnt a lot about myself.
0:43:50 > 0:43:54- It taught me to look at life - from a new perspective.
0:43:55 > 0:44:01- To appreciate what we have at home - and take for granted.
0:44:01 > 0:44:03- I want to remember that feeling.
0:44:06 > 0:44:10- I paused for five minutes - to look around...
0:44:10 > 0:44:16- ..and thank the Arctic - for looking after me.
0:44:19 > 0:44:23- Then, I thanked my feet!
0:44:24 > 0:44:27- It sounds stupid now - but at the time...
0:44:27 > 0:44:32- ..I was so grateful to them - for carrying me all the way.
0:44:48 > 0:44:50- Woo-hoo!
0:44:50 > 0:44:53- CHEERING
0:44:56 > 0:45:01- # The day will come when the meaning - of your life becomes clear
0:45:01 > 0:45:04- # We'll extract the juice - from the fruit
0:45:05 > 0:45:09- # We will all be free #
0:45:10 > 0:45:11- I worked so hard for it.
0:45:12 > 0:45:15- I spent three years of my life...
0:45:15 > 0:45:18- ..preparing for the jungle - and the Arctic.
0:45:19 > 0:45:23- And there I was, - fulfilling my dreams.
0:45:26 > 0:45:31- # Simple philosophy
0:45:32 > 0:45:37- # I've got an easy philosophy #
0:45:37 > 0:45:42- To this day, the Jungle Marathon - and Arctic race...
0:45:42 > 0:45:45- ..stir up so many emotions - within me.
0:45:47 > 0:45:50- # To exist is the meaning #
0:45:50 > 0:45:54- I've failed so many times - in my life...
0:45:55 > 0:45:59- ..but I think failure - makes us stronger.
0:46:01 > 0:46:06- Failure makes success - taste all the sweeter.
0:46:07 > 0:46:12- I had prepared myself - for failure in this race...
0:46:12 > 0:46:17- ..so crossing the finish line - was even sweeter.
0:46:17 > 0:46:20- # What about regret?
0:46:20 > 0:46:23- # What about, what about?
0:46:23 > 0:46:28- # Simple philosophy
0:46:28 > 0:46:30- # I've got... #
0:46:30 > 0:46:33- There are two rules - in these ultra races.
0:46:34 > 0:46:37- You reach the start line - and cross the finish line.
0:46:37 > 0:46:43- All you have to do between them - is take one step after another.
0:46:43 > 0:46:46- It sounds simple, - but that's all it is.
0:46:47 > 0:46:49- One step at a time.
0:46:50 > 0:46:54- # Never-ending
0:46:54 > 0:46:56- # Joy
0:46:57 > 0:47:00- # Joy
0:47:00 > 0:47:04- # Never-ending
0:47:04 > 0:47:07- # Never-ending
0:47:07 > 0:47:10- # Joy
0:47:11 > 0:47:14- # Joy
0:47:15 > 0:47:18- # Never-ending
0:47:18 > 0:47:24- # Never-ending #
0:47:26 > 0:47:29- That's the end - of another chapter in my life.
0:47:30 > 0:47:35- The question everyone asks me now - is what's next?
0:47:36 > 0:47:40- Yes. What is next?
0:47:55 > 0:47:57- S4C Subtitles by Tinopolis