Andrew and Colin, never ones to shy away from a mad idea, signed up for the Norn Iron 100—100 miles of pure, scenic punishment. The course would take them into the wild, unpredictable Sperrin mountains from their beloved coast. The moment they hit “confirm” on the race registration, they knew they were in for an epic adventure.

Race day dawned bright and sunny—perfect conditions, or so they thought. The views were so stunning that they almost forgot they were about to run further than most people drive in a week. Almost.

By mile 10, the first natural disaster struck. Colin’s backpack, already on its last legs, suddenly gave up the ghost. Straps snapped, and soon enough, he was standing there holding what looked like a pile of camping gear and regret. Andrew, ever the problem-solver, whipped out some tape. They performed the kind of repair job that would make even the A-Team proud. The bag was now more tape than the actual bag, but it held—barely.

They performed the kind of repair job that would make even the A-Team proud.

Colin, ever the picture of nonchalance, shrugged off the incident and powered ahead to the next aid station, where he casually ordered vegan food.

By mile 60, their spirits—and their stomachs—got a serious boost when Andrew’s family showed up with McDonald’s. There, in the middle of the wilds, they feasted like kings on Big Macs and fries. Colin, ever the gourmet, added his vegan burger to the mix.

Fuelled by fast food, duct tape, and Colin’s never-ending quest for coffee, they pushed through the miles, conquering bogs, hills, and the sheer insanity of running 100 miles.

They crossed the finish line, exhausted and probably smelling like a McDonald’s kitchen. But they did it, and in typical Colin fashion, he was already eyeing up the vegan menu at the post-race feast.