Harriet Gaywood’s Trailing Around Asia: Mud, Sweat & Bears chronicles her astonishing year of ultramarathon trail running across Asia. The book is a collection of stories capturing her races through breathtaking landscapes, ranging from lush jungles and karst caves to snow-covered peaks. While it’s not a guidebook, the narrative brims with Gaywood’s personal anecdotes, reflections on resilience, and the spirit of trail running. She shares her journey from a hesitant runner to an ultramarathon enthusiast, inspiring readers to embrace adventure, fitness, and self-discovery.

I was captivated by Gaywood’s vivid descriptions of the environments she traversed. The chapter on the Amazean Jungle Trail stood out for its sensory richness; she captures the oppressive humidity, the challenge of slippery paths, and the eerie solitude of running through a jungle at night, lit only by a headlamp. Her recounting of the vibrant sounds of geckos and cuckoos transported me straight to the Thai-Malay border. It wasn’t just about running; it was about feeling alive in the wild, even with leeches lurking in the dark.

The writing is both relatable and awe-inspiring and her humor and humility shine through. In the Leye Karst Cave race, she recounts crawling through rocky shafts and navigating underground pools. Her awe at the surreal beauty of illuminated caves underscores how ultramarathons aren’t just physical feats, they’re explorations of both nature and oneself. Moments like these showcase her knack for blending the grueling with the magical.

I also appreciated her focus on community and culture. From the smiling hospitality of checkpoint volunteers to her camaraderie with fellow runners, Gaywood emphasizes the human connections that make these grueling races worthwhile. The chapter on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain was particularly moving, as she recounts navigating altitude sickness while marveling at the stunning vistas of the Southern Himalayas. Her resilience and joy in the face of challenges are inspiring without feeling preachy.

Trailing Around Asia: Mud, Sweat & Bears is a refreshing read for anyone curious about ultramarathons, trail running, or travel. Gaywood’s honest reflections, combined with her respect for nature and cultures, make it more than just a runner’s memoir. It’s perfect for adventurers, runners seeking motivation, or armchair travelers looking for a glimpse of Asia’s untamed beauty.

Pages: 100 | ASIN : B0DS9Q9636