Shannon-Leigh Litt's extraordinary challenge to run 500km in five days is set to end today with the toughest challenge she has ever set herself.
The 100km per day she has run around the Tauranga Domain on Friday, the hilly Rotorua Redwoods on Saturday, a gruelling grind across mostly soft sand between Mount Surf Club and Papamoa Surf Club on Sunday and yesterday's circuit around the Waikato River Trails have been a massive mental and physical challenge.
But beginning before dawn this morning, Litt will attempt to run 100km up and down Mauao in an endurance test that will push her beyond anything the New Zealand 100km road title holder has managed before. It may take her at least 16 hours.
Litt found the Rotorua leg particularly tough and what was due to take eight-10 hours ended up being a 16-hour ordeal.
On facebook.com/shannonleighathlete she gave an insight into what she put herself through.