The Moriston Enduro is an annual race held in the Scottish Highlands which involves paddling a 600m section of grade 4, then running back to the top with your boat. There are prizes for the fastest lap, fastest combined 3 and most laps completed in 3 hours.
It has become my favourite paddling event of the year and I was delighted to complete 19 laps and win the prize for most laps this year. I thought I’d pop together a few top tips to share the stoke and help you prepare for next year.
Training
This is essentially a running race with a bit of kayaking. I’d recommend getting out for some undulating runs, building up to 1 hour 30 mins in duration. This helps you build your cardio and also leg strength. Get used to the race lines and focus on consistency rather than speed. Most time is gained on the run, not water. 
Nutrition
Treat it as a marathon. Carb load the night before, have a high carb breakfast with some protein a couple of hours before the start. I find a banana 30 minutes before kick off sorts me out. During the event, simple sugars (energy gels, bananas etc.), water and isotonic drinks are key. You want food that you don’t have to chew, is easy to digest and offers high instant energy. Pop it all in a box secured at waist level so you can access it all whilst your boat is on your shoulder.
Kit
Light is right. Grippy running shoes, shorts, a rashy or thin neoprene top. A light paddle, simple buoyancy aid and spraydeck that is quick to get on. There are two trains of thought with boats. Slow and light like the Firecracker. This suits good paddlers that want a light boat for the run. Alternatively my preference is the Ripper2. It’s fast, accurate and forgiving for the paddle, slower on the run but that’s where your run training makes up.
On the water
Slow is smooth and smooth is fast. The time differences on the water are much less than the run so catch your breath, conserve energy and focus on accurate lines rather than speed. Lots of time is lost if you fluff a line and only a small bit gained if you paddle hard.
The Run
Get your deck off before your stop, take a deep breath and now the challenge starts. Go steady up the slab and steps, try not to stop for a breath at the road and just grind it out. The important thing with all endurance events is just to keep moving, even if it’s slow. Padding on your shoulders definitely helps, some folk go for the ‘backrest on the head’ carry technique. Practice carrying on both shoulders to even out the pain. 
The event has a great atmosphere, is very supportive and social. Whether you are in it for the experience or are aiming for 20 laps, I hope this post has helped and to see lots of you there next year.
Thanks to Chris Curry Adventure Photography for the brilliant images and to Liam Green for organising a brilliant event.