💡 Fuel For Thought

Short Film: Crewing Phil Gore a film by Calumn Hockey

​

Yes, I'm still talking about Dead Cow Gully, and how could I not when it was such an epic experience? Not only did I witness a new World Record, but I also got a crash course in crewing the best backyard ultra athlete in the world.

Calumn Hockey was one of Phil Gore's crew members. He's an experienced videographer and photographer, and during his time at Dead Cow Gully, he took the time to document the journey as well.

Calumn has now finished his short film about the event from a support crew angle, and it's absolutely brilliant.

In this 14-minute video, you will gain an insider's perspective on what it is like to crew someone like Phil Gore and explore the behind-the-scenes processes that make it possible.

What I found very interesting was that Calumn also took the time to interview Merijn Geerts' crew and Merijn's relaxed approach couldn't be more contrasting to Phil's structured style, probing that the best race strategy isn't the one that is the most detailed and planned but the one that adjusts best to the athlete's style and needs.

Oh, and I made a couple of appearances, too (look, mum! I'm on TV... well, YouTube).

🚀 Endurance Highlights

1️⃣ The economics of a gel

We often talk about energy gels, drink mixes, and other fuelling products from a nutritional perspective, but what about from a financial one? In this article, Seth Lareau dives into the economics behind performance nutrition and why a tiny 2-ounce gel might cost $4. He breaks down what goes into that price, from ingredients and packaging to research, branding, and innovation.

Lareau also explores how brands are innovating to keep up with modern fueling demands, including new textures, real-food ingredients, and optimal glucose-to-fructose ratios.

Ultimately, the right fuel product will be the one that aligns with your needs, taste, preference and budget. This article offers a useful perspective on why some products come with a higher price tag and how that might reflect better design for performance, especially when training or racing demands are high.

2️⃣ Why numbing the pain isn't worth the risk

When it comes to ultra-marathons and long-distance endurance efforts, pain is often an inevitable part of the experience. While some organisations have banned or discouraged the use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen) during races, many athletes still rely on them to push through discomfort. But just because something helps you numb the pain doesn’t mean it’s harmless or even helpful.

These two articles explain exactly what NSAIDs are, how they work, and why it's best to avoid them during races. By inhibiting COX enzymes (which help regulate inflammation and pain), NSAIDs can also impair gut integrity, kidney function, and cardiovascular health. This is particularly risky during exercise, when these systems are already under stress.

The evidence is clear: NSAIDs don’t improve performance and don’t speed up recovery. They simply mask the pain, suppress your body’s alarm bells, and expose you to serious, potentially life-threatening complications.

Taking NSAIDs during races is a high-risk gamble with your health. You’re far better off investing in proper fuelling, pacing, and recovery. Listen to your body. Pain is information, not something to silence at all costs.

🕵🏻‍♀️ Retail Finds*

This week's product review: Endu1 Honey Boost Ultra

Last month I shared my thoughts on Honey Boost Endurance, I finally got the chance to try the Ultra version.

Features & benefits

• Facts per 2 scoops (to be mixed in ~500ml water): 160 calories, 40g carb, 4.5g protein, 0g fat and 500 mg sodium
• Sweetness is not overpowering.
• Lime flavour offers a nice balance with the honey.
• Protein quantity aligns well with my recommendations for ultra-athletes.
• Higher sodium compared to other popular drinks.
• Australian owned.

Things to keep in mind

• Using as a high-carb mix (e.g. mixing double the concentration) may make it too sweet.
• Not suitable for people with fructose intolerance

Final take

This drink can be a great option for athletes looking for more natural alternatives and is very well suited for athletes who like getting their nutrition from multiple sources and don't rely on a carb-drink as their only fuel option. ​​

*Thank you to Kelvin from Endu1 who sent me Honey Boost samples so I could share my thoughts with you and them as they continue to develop products that are best suited for ultra-endurance athletes.

Kelvin has kindly shared a discount code to receive 30% off on your first order. Simply enter the code Gaby30 at checkout to redeem this offer. Click here if you're keen to try it. ​​​​

👩🏻‍🍳 Kitchen Creations

​Download the recipe​​​

Crusted Salmon This is my favourite salmon recipe. Simple and super tasty. Pair it with your preferred salad and carb to make it a complete and balanced meal.

I'm committing to sending the most valuable endurance nutrition newsletter. I want to make sure that every piece of content you receive has information that is helpful for you and your journey to achieving your personal best.

Happy fuelling!

Gaby | Endurance Nutrition Specialist

​

p.s. I personally read and answer your email replies.

PLUS whenever you’re ready, here are 3 ways I can help you optimise your performance:

1. ​Take the FREE Endurance Nutrition Audit. Not sure if your fuelling strategy is working? This quick 3-minute audit will reveal exactly where you stand and what adjustments could help you perform at your best.
2. ​Book a FREE strategy call. Need expert advice on your next best step? Let’s chat! In this commitment-free call, I’ll help you identify key areas to improve and map out a fueling approach tailored to your endurance goals.
3. ​Join the Fuel To Thrive Academy. Ready to take action? My signature program gives you the ultimate fuelling roadmap to unlock your full potential in sport and life, with proven strategies that have helped endurance athletes fuel smarter, perform better and break records.

​
​