WHEN THE GOING GET’S TOUGH… RINEL GET’S GOING!

Rinel McLaren in action at the Longmore 100miler race in December 2024.

Meet Rinel McLaren –

Age – 32
Favourite Shoe – Saucony Peregrine
Favourite run session – Trail Long Run
Favourite race distance – 100 miler Trail Run
Favourite music to run to – Anything with a beat and rhythm

When did you start running and was there a specific reason?

I started running at the end of 2018, but it was very casual—mostly 5km or 10km runs. There wasn’t a big reason behind it; honestly, it started because of a free t-shirt for completing a 5km race and to lose weight. Things changed at the end of 2022 when I was talked into doing a 50km trail run. That’s where I truly discovered my passion for trail running and found real joy in it. 2023 was the first year I started training seriously, and running became a big part of my lif

What is it about long distance runs that you like it so much?

Long-distance running combines physical challenge, mental resilience, and a deep connection with nature. I enjoy pushing my limits, whether it’s completing my first 100-mile trail race, conquering the Comrades and Two Oceans ultras, or tackling the Amphitheater chain ladders despite my fear of heights. Running long distances isn’t just about miles for me—it’s about the experiences, the conversations shared with friends, and the sense of accomplishment after overcoming tough moments. I also find great joy in the freedom and beauty of being out on the trails.

How was your preparation for the Longmore Forest Run & what were the focus points?

My preparation for the Longmore Forest Run was focused on improving both my physical and mental conditioning. After completing the 80km race the year before, I realized I needed to strengthen my body further to survive the 100-miler. To address this, I joined a gym and focused on full-body strength training, which made a significant difference. My body felt strong throughout the race, and this strength was crucial.
Mental preparation was just as important. I created a Word document that I read every day where I documented my goals, advice I received, and anything I read that could help me prepare. Mentally, I prepared myself to endure the toughest challenges and still push forward. I focused on controlling the things I could and let go of those I couldn’t.
While my training didn’t go entirely as planned due to injuries, Markus helped me get the most out of my body with quality high-mileage weeks in the 6 weeks leading up to the race. I did most of my runs on trails to ensure my body was properly conditioned for the race.
I paid more attention to my nutrition, an area I had struggled with before. Through experimentation during training, I discovered what worked best for me. For the race, I carefully planned my hourly intake and hydration strategy.

Were you injury free and if not, how did you deal with it?

No, I wasn’t entirely injury-free. I struggled with an ITB injury, and at one point, I genuinely thought I wouldn’t be able to run the Longmore Forest Run. However, with the help of my incredible physio, Andrea, and well-planned training sessions by Markus, I was able to gradually rebuild volume and complete some quality training weeks leading up to the race.
Then, just three weeks before the race, I injured my Achilles/calf. Fortunately, most of the heavy training was already done by then. Markus and Andrea once again played a crucial role in helping me manage and recover from this injury. I had to take two weeks off running, and the stress of only being able to start running again a week before the race was intense. Thankfully, the injury didn’t prevent me from showing up on race day and giving it my best.

How was the race (Highs, lows and the reality of running a 100miler)?

The race was an incredible experience, full of highs, and a true test of endurance. I started out running the first 90km alongside another runner, Robin. It was intense, and we were racing. I managed to pull ahead of her on a climb. From there on, I stayed focused on my race, trying to run when and where I could, always with the thought that she might catch up. Thankfully, I managed my pace and nutrition well, which allowed me to build a significant lead.
I didn’t focus on time, distance, or pace during the race. Instead, I concentrated on how I felt in each moment. Breaking the race into smaller sections, from checkpoint to checkpoint, helped me stay focused on the present, without worrying about what was to come. I maintained a positive mindset throughout, which was key to my experience.
There were no real low points or moments where I wanted to quit. However, the final 48km were challenging. My legs were in severe pain, and running became increasingly difficult. The last 20km brought rain, and blisters started forming under my feet, making each step on the rocky terrain excruciating.
The reality of running a 100-miler is that it’s much more than just training and logging miles. It’s a true test of both physical and mental endurance. You have to commit to pushing through the pain, managing setbacks, and staying focused. There are no shortcuts in a race of this distance; you have to be ready for the unexpected and willing to endure whatever comes your way.

What would you say was the biggest contributor for your success on the day and why?

My success on the day was the result of many factors, and I couldn’t have achieved it alone. The support of my team, who all worked hard alongside me, was invaluable. It wasn’t just one thing that made the difference, but a combination of my things. Mental preparation, physical conditioning, nutrition, weeks of focused training, and regular physio sessions all played a crucial role in my success. Each of these contributed in their own way, ensuring I was fully prepared for the challenge.

What would your advice be to someone keen to start running?

If you’re keen to start running, my advice would be to focus on enjoying the process. When you enjoy running, the challenges become more manageable, and it will naturally motivate you to keep going.
Also, if possible, consider working with a coach. A coach can take the guesswork out of your training, providing structure that helps you progress faster while minimizing the risk of injury.
Running should feel rewarding, not overwhelming. Stay focused on gradual improvements and celebrate every milestone along the way.