My First 50-Mile Ultramarathon: The Epic Journey
My First 50-Mile Ultra: What I Wore and What I Learned
Last weekend, I ran my first 50-mile ultramarathon – the GB Ultras Pennine Barrier 50. This was a race I’d dreamed about for years. I used to say:
“One day I’ll run under Ribblehead Viaduct and earn that iconic medal.”
This year, I finally stopped dreaming and took the leap. It was tough. And it was unforgettable.
🗺️ 51 miles across the Yorkshire Three Peaks
⛰️ Nearly 10,000ft of elevation
🌧️ Changing conditions + my GPS dying at mile 44 😅
But I was ready — because I prepared well, trusted my kit, and surrounded myself with good people.
My Race Day Kit – Built for Real Conditions
Everything I wore came from Trail Goddess, because I started this brand to create kit that works for real women on the trail — on big race days like this.
Gaia Waterproof Jacket
Packed as mandatory safety kit. Fully taped seams, 15,000mm waterproof rating – this jacket was essential, especially when the wind picked up on higher ground.
White Cool Tee
Lightweight, breathable, and has built-in SPF30. This kept me cool and protected when the sun came out mid-day.
White Long Sleeve Performance Tee
Stored in my dry bag as a backup layer — soft, comfortable and race-approved for mandatory kit.
Reflective Logo Tech Shorts
No chafing. Breathable and sweat-wicking. Plus, double leg pockets meant I could stash snacks and my phone easily.
Athena Buff
So versatile — worn around my neck on the summits, dipped in streams when it got hot, and yes… used as a tissue when needed!
White Performance Visor
I wear this on every run. Lightweight, sun-shielding, with a clever black felt lining to resist makeup stains. A true staple.
Post-Race Essentials – Comfort is Queen
After 16+ hours on the trail, comfort matters. Here's what I pulled on at the finish line:
Laguna Blue Hoodie
Fleece-lined and cloud-soft. It’s always in my post-race drop bag — the first thing I grab after a tough effort.
Luna Trail Running Tights
Soft-touch with slight compression. They felt amazing post-race, especially on tired, tender skin.
Soft Touch Beanie
This was part of my mandatory kit, but also perfect at the finish when the temperature dropped and I started to cool down fast.
What This Ultra Taught Me
This race taught me so much — about pacing, mindset, and always preparing for the unexpected (like losing GPS at mile 44!). But most of all, it reminded me why I started Trail Goddess in the first place:
To create kit that helps women feel confident to show up, go long, and find their freedom on the trails.
If you’re training for your first ultra — or dreaming about it like I once did — I hope this post helps you feel just a little bit more ready.
See you on the trails,
Leigh-Ann
Founder, Trail Goddess 🧡
