Sanna's Trail Diary: September

Supporting Others

September has been less about racing for myself and more about giving back. It’s been refreshing to switch roles and focus on supporting others in their challenges, while still sneaking in some good training miles.

First up was the GB Ultras Snowdon 50. I was on “back runner” duty, which meant 20 hours out on the hills of Snowdon, helping runners navigate, encouraging them along, and lending a hand at a checkpoint. I must have filled countless Harrier bottles and cups that day, but the real reward was cheering people through their tough moments. It was also a great kit test — full pack, steady pace, and a first outing for the new Pro Exmoor coat. The rain stayed away, but the biting wind made an appearance, and the coat kept me warm without overheating.

Next up was leading a Sheultra run/walk on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. This one was pure joy: chatting, running, swapping kit stories, and even spotting seals along the way. The easy camaraderie of sharing trails reminded me how much the running community has supported me recently, both online and in person. This month was my turn to give some of that energy back — and it felt just right.

Now, training shifts up a gear as I build towards a winter ultra. But before that comes something a little different: the Cardiff Half Marathon. It’ll be the shortest race me and the Baslow waistband have ever done — but I’m looking forward to testing the legs at a faster pace and soaking up the atmosphere.

Here’s to September: a month of giving back, steady miles, and remembering that running is about more than just your own finish line.