Saturday 29th December
The weather forecast was not good. Wet and windy. So we eventually decide to abandon plan A. Also plan C and go for plan B. Basically follow he UTLD route from Elterwater to Coniston and then find an alternative way back.
Thankfully the pace was very steady and we made reasonable progress passing a couple of 4x4's on the way to Tilberthwaite. Heading over to Coniston we encountered wind and rain. Confirming our decision to stay low was a good one.
In Coniston we decide to follow the Cumbrian Way back to Skelwith Bridge. Going via Tarn Hows was OK but after that I did start to suffer a little. It felt a long (undulating) way and my lack of running and climbing was showing itself.
The river Brathay at Skelwith Force was in full spate and very impressive. A bit scary I find. The plod back to Elterwater along the partly flooded path uncomfortable. Glad I made the effort but it did show just how short of fitness I am and how much I need to do if any of 2013's challenges are to be attempted.
Thanks DW and CB for the company and waiting for me.
Russell
Saturday, 29 December 2012
Orienteering
27th December 2012
Tried out the orienteering course at Center Parcs. Good fun but not proper orienteering.
Approx an hour. Good training.
Russell
Tried out the orienteering course at Center Parcs. Good fun but not proper orienteering.
Approx an hour. Good training.
Russell
Boxing Day
26th December 2012
Had a short run then a swim followed by a game of pool and a pint of lager whilst watching the footy. Top.
Russell
Had a short run then a swim followed by a game of pool and a pint of lager whilst watching the footy. Top.
Russell
Sunday, 16 December 2012
Great Langdale Christmas Pudding 10 K
Saturday 16th December 2012
I had originally planned this as my first race as a vet 50 but then the Really Wild Boar race popped up so I really had no reason to be here at all. Several times before the start I did question why I was still doing it. However I had set myself the target of running under 45 minutes and getting as near to 42 minutes as possible. Trying to do 7 minute miles or better.
7 minute miles = 43.45. I ran 44.14 so just missed that one.
I think I ran at a fairly consistent pace. Passing a few in the first half but being passed by a few in the second. They didn't gain much on me
A little disappointed but generally pleased. Especially when I consider my lack of training on the road.
'Not bad for someone of my age' to quote KA at the finish.
Russell
I had originally planned this as my first race as a vet 50 but then the Really Wild Boar race popped up so I really had no reason to be here at all. Several times before the start I did question why I was still doing it. However I had set myself the target of running under 45 minutes and getting as near to 42 minutes as possible. Trying to do 7 minute miles or better.
7 minute miles = 43.45. I ran 44.14 so just missed that one.
I think I ran at a fairly consistent pace. Passing a few in the first half but being passed by a few in the second. They didn't gain much on me
A little disappointed but generally pleased. Especially when I consider my lack of training on the road.
'Not bad for someone of my age' to quote KA at the finish.
Russell
Saturday, 8 December 2012
The 'Really' Wild Boar
Saturday 8th December 2012
A momentous day. Well not really but it was my first race as a V50.
Having been a bit full of cold in the week I doubted if I would be able to run. Even at 9 o'clock on race day I questioned whether it was a good idea. Once up and breakfasted I felt better and packed my bag. The wife was back late from an errand which meant I arrived with only enough time change, register, 5 min warm up and then be ready to race ( I mean run/ jog).
The track we followed for the first part of the race was partly icy but mostly OK with little snow cover. I went very steady until I spotted a club mate ahead and noticed I was gaining on him. By the time we reached the top gate I had caught him and made my pass. However this only resulted in joining single file traffic up the last part of the climb.
The wind here was cold and icy, blasting us from the south. I wished I had my cag on.
There was no passing opportunity as venturing of the snow trod meant entering deep snow and expanding a lot of energy. Once on the summit plateau things improved . We moved quicker but the odd drift slowed progress. I manage to pass a couple of runners just before the descent.
This was fun but venturing of the trod meant shins would be cut or grazed as feet broke through the icy top layer of snow. I passed when I could but otherwise just strode out and enjoyed it. Once back on the track I concentrated on picking off the few runners I could spot ahead and keeping my feet.
Times were well down on last year. 12 mins for me. A warm pub for prize giving was most welcome. Soup and chips. A pint. A good day. Glad I made the effort.
Russell
A momentous day. Well not really but it was my first race as a V50.
Having been a bit full of cold in the week I doubted if I would be able to run. Even at 9 o'clock on race day I questioned whether it was a good idea. Once up and breakfasted I felt better and packed my bag. The wife was back late from an errand which meant I arrived with only enough time change, register, 5 min warm up and then be ready to race ( I mean run/ jog).
The track we followed for the first part of the race was partly icy but mostly OK with little snow cover. I went very steady until I spotted a club mate ahead and noticed I was gaining on him. By the time we reached the top gate I had caught him and made my pass. However this only resulted in joining single file traffic up the last part of the climb.
The wind here was cold and icy, blasting us from the south. I wished I had my cag on.
There was no passing opportunity as venturing of the snow trod meant entering deep snow and expanding a lot of energy. Once on the summit plateau things improved . We moved quicker but the odd drift slowed progress. I manage to pass a couple of runners just before the descent.
This was fun but venturing of the trod meant shins would be cut or grazed as feet broke through the icy top layer of snow. I passed when I could but otherwise just strode out and enjoyed it. Once back on the track I concentrated on picking off the few runners I could spot ahead and keeping my feet.
Times were well down on last year. 12 mins for me. A warm pub for prize giving was most welcome. Soup and chips. A pint. A good day. Glad I made the effort.
Russell
Saturday, 1 December 2012
Night run photo shoot
Thursday
29/11/12
Basically this evolved me running around with a head torch and a bike light whilst Matthew took some long exposure photos. Good fun. Also one of me running back.
29/11/12
Basically this evolved me running around with a head torch and a bike light whilst Matthew took some long exposure photos. Good fun. Also one of me running back.
Thursday, 29 November 2012
Birthday run
28/11/12
Now with the wind more or less behind it is down to Nan Bield. At Nan Bield the wind in definitely not behind. Best head up quickly and once again take the traverse/race line to Kentmere Pike. One last chance to take in the views before heading down. A descent that needs constant attention. The valley is relatively warm, the running pleasant and I feel very happy I made the effort.
Back at the car DW surprises me with a cake complete with candles. A great end to a fantastic run. We finish appropriately with a pint at the Hawskhead Brewery. Thanks DW for the company and getting my birthday off to a perfect start.
Russell
50th birthday run.
Kentmere.
After opening a few presents and a quick bowl of cornflakes DW picks me up and we head up the Kentmere valley. It is looking like a beautiful day if a little cold and breezy. At 8.30am we set off up Garburn the sunlight ahead drawing us on. Climbing more steeply to Buck Crag I begin to feel the effort. Once over the top the pleasant running up towards Yoke is made a bit of an ordeal by the head wind. The upside being the views improving with every few yards.
We take the race/traverse line around Yoke and climb Ill Bell where the views are superb. We can see the snow ahead on Thornthwaite and High Street. Traversing Froswick on the race route is one of my favourite pieces of running, DW kindly let's me take the lead.
Once into the snow the going gets tough as we cannot be sure which step will be firm and when we will break through the icy crust, sapping energy and scratching shins. We abandon the struggle to High Street and follow the snow and ice covered path across towards Mardale Ill Bell ( pic below) and pick up the trod around the head of the valley.
We take the race/traverse line around Yoke and climb Ill Bell where the views are superb. We can see the snow ahead on Thornthwaite and High Street. Traversing Froswick on the race route is one of my favourite pieces of running, DW kindly let's me take the lead.
Once into the snow the going gets tough as we cannot be sure which step will be firm and when we will break through the icy crust, sapping energy and scratching shins. We abandon the struggle to High Street and follow the snow and ice covered path across towards Mardale Ill Bell ( pic below) and pick up the trod around the head of the valley.
Now with the wind more or less behind it is down to Nan Bield. At Nan Bield the wind in definitely not behind. Best head up quickly and once again take the traverse/race line to Kentmere Pike. One last chance to take in the views before heading down. A descent that needs constant attention. The valley is relatively warm, the running pleasant and I feel very happy I made the effort.
Back at the car DW surprises me with a cake complete with candles. A great end to a fantastic run. We finish appropriately with a pint at the Hawskhead Brewery. Thanks DW for the company and getting my birthday off to a perfect start.
Russell
Friday, 28 September 2012
Number 12
Saturday 1st September 2012
Ben Nevis race.
So my 12th Ben has come and gone leaving me with very mixed emotions about it all.
+ve's
I did it.
If I want to do 21 only 9 to go.
It was a good weekend away,
-ve's
I fell on the way down at the last possible moment before reaching the flat ground.
It hurt and I got cramp.
It will take a while to recover from.
I didn't really enjoy it.
Entries for 2013 open end of January. What should I do?
Russell
Ben Nevis race.
So my 12th Ben has come and gone leaving me with very mixed emotions about it all.
+ve's
I did it.
If I want to do 21 only 9 to go.
It was a good weekend away,
-ve's
I fell on the way down at the last possible moment before reaching the flat ground.
It hurt and I got cramp.
It will take a while to recover from.
I didn't really enjoy it.
Entries for 2013 open end of January. What should I do?
Russell
Monday, 27 August 2012
Arnison & Grasmere
Saturday 25th August 2012
Arnison Crag Horseshoe.
A good short race and part of the Helm Hill Club Championship. I have a poor start but pick up a bit half way through and gain a few places. A good Helm turnout.
Sunday 26th August.
I plan to get a run in somewhere near Fairfield or Helvelyn and then watch the Grasmere Sports Guide race. But on parking up at Dunmail and opening my bag a find I have forgotten my fell shoes. Still I get an good steep climb in up Willie Wife Moor and get back down before the heavy rain comes in. Very slippy in road shoes.
After watching the U14 and U17 races I climb the senior course and watch from the top. A big field of 182.
Steady on the way down with a few slips. The runners had turned parts of the grassy climb into muddy steps.
Russell
Arnison Crag Horseshoe.
A good short race and part of the Helm Hill Club Championship. I have a poor start but pick up a bit half way through and gain a few places. A good Helm turnout.
Sunday 26th August.
I plan to get a run in somewhere near Fairfield or Helvelyn and then watch the Grasmere Sports Guide race. But on parking up at Dunmail and opening my bag a find I have forgotten my fell shoes. Still I get an good steep climb in up Willie Wife Moor and get back down before the heavy rain comes in. Very slippy in road shoes.
After watching the U14 and U17 races I climb the senior course and watch from the top. A big field of 182.
Steady on the way down with a few slips. The runners had turned parts of the grassy climb into muddy steps.
Russell
Sunday, 19 August 2012
What's been happening
After a few day of doing the exercises the physio gave me I decide it is time for a run. Not fancying any of my usual ones from home I search the internet and see it is the BOFRA Farleton Knott race. 4.5 miles 1500'. I plan to take it steady. It is warm and hard work but nice to be running again. I can feel my adductor towards the end but no pain. 2 minutes slower than last year but I was just plodding around (really!). A great atmosphere at these races and an ideal place to start.
Fed up with sitting in weekday evenings I decide it would be better to go to training on the Helm. I don't push too hard but am happy to get through the session. The next week we do longer reps over the back. I am very pleased to be able to do these OK.
Between training sessions I feel I need to get some bigger climbs in before the Ben Nevis race. I head over to Patterdale and try to park at Hartsop. It is full but I manage to find a space along the road at Low Wood. I did a run from here some 10 years ago with DR so head off the same way up onto Bleaberry Knotts. It is good to be out and the views are brilliant. I make my way to Hartsop Above How and on to Hart Crag. Suddenly there are a lot of people about, the ever popular Fairfield Horseshoe. I descend via the old IHR route and am please to run well down Dovedale and past Brothers Water to the car. Home in time to watch the Olympics for the rest of the day.
Saturday 18th August. After doing a few domestic chores I decide to go for a run as the forecast is poor for Sunday. I search my brain for somewhere with a good steep climb, not too far away and maybe something new. In the end I park at Rydal and start to run up the track by Rydal Beck. Passing a popular swimming spot I vow to return one evening for a dip. I little further up the valley I decide now is the time and turn 90 left and head direct for the summit of Heron Pike. A good steep climb, hands on grass a few times. On the top it is hard not to stop a few minutes and take it all in. I am alone.
Descending Nab Scar on the made path is a little bit of torture. Last time I did this it was dark. I think I preferred it then.
Another hill session in the week and a run next weekend should see me in better shape for the Ben. Let's hope so.
Russell
Fed up with sitting in weekday evenings I decide it would be better to go to training on the Helm. I don't push too hard but am happy to get through the session. The next week we do longer reps over the back. I am very pleased to be able to do these OK.
Between training sessions I feel I need to get some bigger climbs in before the Ben Nevis race. I head over to Patterdale and try to park at Hartsop. It is full but I manage to find a space along the road at Low Wood. I did a run from here some 10 years ago with DR so head off the same way up onto Bleaberry Knotts. It is good to be out and the views are brilliant. I make my way to Hartsop Above How and on to Hart Crag. Suddenly there are a lot of people about, the ever popular Fairfield Horseshoe. I descend via the old IHR route and am please to run well down Dovedale and past Brothers Water to the car. Home in time to watch the Olympics for the rest of the day.
Saturday 18th August. After doing a few domestic chores I decide to go for a run as the forecast is poor for Sunday. I search my brain for somewhere with a good steep climb, not too far away and maybe something new. In the end I park at Rydal and start to run up the track by Rydal Beck. Passing a popular swimming spot I vow to return one evening for a dip. I little further up the valley I decide now is the time and turn 90 left and head direct for the summit of Heron Pike. A good steep climb, hands on grass a few times. On the top it is hard not to stop a few minutes and take it all in. I am alone.
Descending Nab Scar on the made path is a little bit of torture. Last time I did this it was dark. I think I preferred it then.
Another hill session in the week and a run next weekend should see me in better shape for the Ben. Let's hope so.
Russell
Sunday, 29 July 2012
Adductor and out
So the worst has happened. An adductor strain a week before the UTLD 50 has put me out of the event.
I tried to be positive and hoped some treatment etc might see me able to start but in the end it was very apparent that I had little chance of completing.
I settle for a a short walk/jog to give some support to runners on Garburn Pass. Some were in better shape than others! The run back to my car left me in little doubt that I had made the right decision.
I have resisted the urge to lock myself in a dark room or take to serious alcohol consumption and vow to recover and get fit asap.
As for entering again next year. A big ?
Russell
I tried to be positive and hoped some treatment etc might see me able to start but in the end it was very apparent that I had little chance of completing.
I settle for a a short walk/jog to give some support to runners on Garburn Pass. Some were in better shape than others! The run back to my car left me in little doubt that I had made the right decision.
I have resisted the urge to lock myself in a dark room or take to serious alcohol consumption and vow to recover and get fit asap.
As for entering again next year. A big ?
Russell
Friday, 6 July 2012
Injuries and fustration
So after recovering form a niggle in February in time for the Highlander and doing OK. Twisting and ankle the following weekend and recovering from that in time for Martin's BG. Getting a rib injury on Scafell Pike which came back to scupper our chances on the LAMM. I have now gone and done my back whilst getting something from the fridge.
Resulting in no running and so no blogging. And lots of frustration. However I seem to be recovering now and might just with a bit of luck manage to hobble around the UTLD 50 miles.
If anything else goes wrong you may find me sitting in a dark room rocking backwards and forwards mumbling to myself.
Keep smiling.
Russell
Resulting in no running and so no blogging. And lots of frustration. However I seem to be recovering now and might just with a bit of luck manage to hobble around the UTLD 50 miles.
If anything else goes wrong you may find me sitting in a dark room rocking backwards and forwards mumbling to myself.
Keep smiling.
Russell
Sunday, 24 June 2012
LAMM 2012
So the LAMM comes around again. This time the location is Ben Cruachan. Not so far to travel. After some last minute arranging I arrive at he event center and meet up with DW. He has been up for a couple of days. We register and settle down for the night.
Saturday morning brings midges and the usual bus ride. We are soon off running and all goes well for a while. After control 2 I begin to find it hard to breathe deeply and my chest hurts. A result of the fall the week before on Martins BG. Our route choices are OK, I think, although we do have a dodgy descent. We later decide another line would have been better.
The last couple of hours are a real struggle for me and I cannot run the last 3k or so down the track. Very disappointing and I realise that tomorrow may be too much for me. The evening starts off midgey but a breeze allows us enough time to cook etc before they return. Thank you DW for looking after me as I found it hard move about.
After an uncomfortable night the final decision not to start day 2 is an easy one and we opt to walk out. This is still not easy for me but after a couple of hours we are back at the event center eating Wilfs veg chilli at 10am. Very odd!
In many way this was still a good weekend. Despite my injury we were only 1hr 7mins behind the leaders and in the chasing start. We will never know how things would have been if I was fully fit but I can still take some positives from the weekend.
Just getting a bit fed up with injuries at the moment. Yesterday I hurt my back getting something out of the fridge. Have not run since the LAMM and need to get out.
Russell
Saturday morning brings midges and the usual bus ride. We are soon off running and all goes well for a while. After control 2 I begin to find it hard to breathe deeply and my chest hurts. A result of the fall the week before on Martins BG. Our route choices are OK, I think, although we do have a dodgy descent. We later decide another line would have been better.
The last couple of hours are a real struggle for me and I cannot run the last 3k or so down the track. Very disappointing and I realise that tomorrow may be too much for me. The evening starts off midgey but a breeze allows us enough time to cook etc before they return. Thank you DW for looking after me as I found it hard move about.
After an uncomfortable night the final decision not to start day 2 is an easy one and we opt to walk out. This is still not easy for me but after a couple of hours we are back at the event center eating Wilfs veg chilli at 10am. Very odd!
In many way this was still a good weekend. Despite my injury we were only 1hr 7mins behind the leaders and in the chasing start. We will never know how things would have been if I was fully fit but I can still take some positives from the weekend.
Just getting a bit fed up with injuries at the moment. Yesterday I hurt my back getting something out of the fridge. Have not run since the LAMM and need to get out.
Russell
Monday, 4 June 2012
Martins BG
Sunday 3rd June 2012
Martin started his attempt at 7pm on the Saturday night. I was originally down to do leg 4 with DW but plans change as they usually do and he switched to leg 1. The new schedule showed at least 4 pacers for leg 4 plus me, I wondered if I would really be needed. Then things changed again and Martin had a problem with leg 3. So I offered to change. The disadvantage being that this would mean I had to be at Dunmail ready by 3am. Assuming he was not up on time. Fortunately Martin was carrying a tracker and I was able to see where he was and judge his arrival time. This still meant getting up at 1-30am and not much sleep.
I arrive at Dumail and soon after the support team appear. We watch the skyline for head torches, nothing. It looks like they will be late. Not surprising considering the clagged in windy weather. June in the Lakes! James the other pacer arrives, we introduce ourselves and get Martins kit, food and water sorted. Then the lights appear above us. Martin arrives and the support attend to his needs. We are 35 mins down on the schedule. The man with the stopwatch says time to go and we are soon heading up Steel Fell as the first light of day is welcomed. By the top torches are off.
The pace feels good but we lose time on the 22 hour schedule. Martin is not feeling too good at this point and we have to make a pit stop after Calf Crag. Then it is up into the mist at Sergeant Man. We never really come out of it again until the final descent from Sca Fell. The Langdales pass well and although more time is lost it is not much and Martin is still moving strongly. I am quietly confident that at this pace we will be OK. James does a great job of keeping him fed and motivated.
After another pit stop before Rossett Pike we climb well up Bowfell but we lose the trod and go a little high, visibility is really bad but I know if we keep going we will pop out onto the area between Hanging Knotts and the summit. Sure enough we do. At the top it is quite cold. Martin has some rice pudding and a gel. This takes a few more minutes sitting down, it is hard to eat rice pudding with a spoon whilst running.
The food has the desired effect to the point James and myself struggle to keep up climbing Esk Pike. A little worrying with so far still to go. But then another brief pause for Martin to take some Paracetamol. His knee is giving problems. I think more so than he is letting on. Continuing to move well Great End passes and we are soon at Ill Crag. Martin leaves has poles at the bottom of the scramble so we have to return to pick them up. Now Martin has a different line back to the path but we head too far north and have to double back. Not a problem but a couple of minutes gone.
Broad crag goes no problem but then on the descent to Broad Crag col James trips whilst saying good day to passing walkers resulting in cuts to hand and knee. After a minute to calm himself it is apparent he is quite shaken. Worried he will slow us up he urges us to continue and he will head down at his own pace to Wasdale Head. We press on but after Scafell Pike we head a little too far west. Realising this quickly we are soon heading to Mickledore. But not before it is my turn to trip. I land heavily and am a little winded and bruise my hand. No time to dwell, need to press on to give Martin the best chance.
The guys at Broad Stand have the rope ready. We apologise for being late. Martin goes first then me. When I get to the ledge Martin has continued and is out of site. I rush up being mindful of the consequences of a fall. At the top I am shattered and can see nothing. I think all I can do is go to the summit hopefully catching Martin on his way down. However before I get my breath back he appears from my left unsure of the route. Soon on the path it is only a few minutes to the top and thankfully my last summit of the day.
As we descend we finally come out of the mist and the view is terrific. I get ahead to take some photos. The fells to the west and north are clearing. Red Pike, Kirk Fell and Gable almost cloud free. This is a big boost for Martin. We are well above Yewbarrow and I think how small it looks in comparison but keep this to myself. It won't look that way to Martin in half an hour or so.
A check of the watch and I am confident we will only lose 20 minutes or so to schedule on the leg. Not bad considering the stops etc. Martins knee trouble returns and the descent is slow but steady and we are down in good time. Much to my relief. He leaves Wasdale an hour down on the original 22 hour schedule. I feel sure he can get around.
Once home I track his progress and he is clearly going strongly. Sure enough he completes in 22.41. A good time. He must have been strong on the last two legs. No doubt helped by the great support team and pacers. Well Done!
Jubitastic!
Russell
Martin started his attempt at 7pm on the Saturday night. I was originally down to do leg 4 with DW but plans change as they usually do and he switched to leg 1. The new schedule showed at least 4 pacers for leg 4 plus me, I wondered if I would really be needed. Then things changed again and Martin had a problem with leg 3. So I offered to change. The disadvantage being that this would mean I had to be at Dunmail ready by 3am. Assuming he was not up on time. Fortunately Martin was carrying a tracker and I was able to see where he was and judge his arrival time. This still meant getting up at 1-30am and not much sleep.
I arrive at Dumail and soon after the support team appear. We watch the skyline for head torches, nothing. It looks like they will be late. Not surprising considering the clagged in windy weather. June in the Lakes! James the other pacer arrives, we introduce ourselves and get Martins kit, food and water sorted. Then the lights appear above us. Martin arrives and the support attend to his needs. We are 35 mins down on the schedule. The man with the stopwatch says time to go and we are soon heading up Steel Fell as the first light of day is welcomed. By the top torches are off.
The pace feels good but we lose time on the 22 hour schedule. Martin is not feeling too good at this point and we have to make a pit stop after Calf Crag. Then it is up into the mist at Sergeant Man. We never really come out of it again until the final descent from Sca Fell. The Langdales pass well and although more time is lost it is not much and Martin is still moving strongly. I am quietly confident that at this pace we will be OK. James does a great job of keeping him fed and motivated.
After another pit stop before Rossett Pike we climb well up Bowfell but we lose the trod and go a little high, visibility is really bad but I know if we keep going we will pop out onto the area between Hanging Knotts and the summit. Sure enough we do. At the top it is quite cold. Martin has some rice pudding and a gel. This takes a few more minutes sitting down, it is hard to eat rice pudding with a spoon whilst running.
The food has the desired effect to the point James and myself struggle to keep up climbing Esk Pike. A little worrying with so far still to go. But then another brief pause for Martin to take some Paracetamol. His knee is giving problems. I think more so than he is letting on. Continuing to move well Great End passes and we are soon at Ill Crag. Martin leaves has poles at the bottom of the scramble so we have to return to pick them up. Now Martin has a different line back to the path but we head too far north and have to double back. Not a problem but a couple of minutes gone.
Broad crag goes no problem but then on the descent to Broad Crag col James trips whilst saying good day to passing walkers resulting in cuts to hand and knee. After a minute to calm himself it is apparent he is quite shaken. Worried he will slow us up he urges us to continue and he will head down at his own pace to Wasdale Head. We press on but after Scafell Pike we head a little too far west. Realising this quickly we are soon heading to Mickledore. But not before it is my turn to trip. I land heavily and am a little winded and bruise my hand. No time to dwell, need to press on to give Martin the best chance.
The guys at Broad Stand have the rope ready. We apologise for being late. Martin goes first then me. When I get to the ledge Martin has continued and is out of site. I rush up being mindful of the consequences of a fall. At the top I am shattered and can see nothing. I think all I can do is go to the summit hopefully catching Martin on his way down. However before I get my breath back he appears from my left unsure of the route. Soon on the path it is only a few minutes to the top and thankfully my last summit of the day.
As we descend we finally come out of the mist and the view is terrific. I get ahead to take some photos. The fells to the west and north are clearing. Red Pike, Kirk Fell and Gable almost cloud free. This is a big boost for Martin. We are well above Yewbarrow and I think how small it looks in comparison but keep this to myself. It won't look that way to Martin in half an hour or so.
A check of the watch and I am confident we will only lose 20 minutes or so to schedule on the leg. Not bad considering the stops etc. Martins knee trouble returns and the descent is slow but steady and we are down in good time. Much to my relief. He leaves Wasdale an hour down on the original 22 hour schedule. I feel sure he can get around.
Once home I track his progress and he is clearly going strongly. Sure enough he completes in 22.41. A good time. He must have been strong on the last two legs. No doubt helped by the great support team and pacers. Well Done!
Jubitastic!
Russell
Tuesday, 29 May 2012
Helvellyn & the Dodds
Saturday 26th May
DW and I head out for a recce of this race, forecast is for a warm day but strong winds. Correct!
Leaving the car near the cricket club we run up the road to Newsham. I had forgotten how steep this was. As usual I take a while to get going. We follow the route on the race map and are soon into the main climb. It is hard work. From Clough Head the next checkpoint is Great Dodd. Not on the original race route I find it a bit strange and not quite in keeping. Especially as it also has to be visited on the return route. The wind in relentless and only gets stronger as we approach Raise. No time to hang around, on we go. Finally at Helvellyn we have a brief stop for food and decide to head straight back. The wind makes any conversation or stops to discuss route choices unpleasant.
Retracing our steps as it were we are soon climbing back up Great Dodd, the contour path to our left looking very appealing. But not the race route. On the descent my legs begin to feel it. Niggles creeping in. Coming off Clough Head is steep and the further we go the hotter it gets. On the tarmac the heat is intense. Once back at the car the wind soon cools us.
On reflection a good run.
Russell
DW and I head out for a recce of this race, forecast is for a warm day but strong winds. Correct!
Leaving the car near the cricket club we run up the road to Newsham. I had forgotten how steep this was. As usual I take a while to get going. We follow the route on the race map and are soon into the main climb. It is hard work. From Clough Head the next checkpoint is Great Dodd. Not on the original race route I find it a bit strange and not quite in keeping. Especially as it also has to be visited on the return route. The wind in relentless and only gets stronger as we approach Raise. No time to hang around, on we go. Finally at Helvellyn we have a brief stop for food and decide to head straight back. The wind makes any conversation or stops to discuss route choices unpleasant.
Retracing our steps as it were we are soon climbing back up Great Dodd, the contour path to our left looking very appealing. But not the race route. On the descent my legs begin to feel it. Niggles creeping in. Coming off Clough Head is steep and the further we go the hotter it gets. On the tarmac the heat is intense. Once back at the car the wind soon cools us.
On reflection a good run.
Russell
Loughrigg Monday
Monday 28th May
Loughrigg 2 ways. 2 tarns and a lot of paths.
Perfect evening for a run so I decide to go up Loughrigg 2 ways I have never been, or at least not for a long time. I park in Clappersgate and set off up the small path from the phone box. Last time I went up this was was over 30 years ago. That makes me feel old. Soon climbing steeply I am hoping to find Lily Tarn. The map shows a path going straight there. There are a lot of paths! However I locate the tarn and then head off to pick up the main path down to Loughrigg tarn.
Here the map shows a path going past a farm and then climbing very steeply almost directly to the summit. Now I say map but although I did look at it earlier in the day I don't actually have one with me so memory is put o the test. Map and memory prove right and sure enough after a warm climb I pop out just below the summit. I am alone.
I follow the race route back to the main path and test the line along the wall. Better running than the other way but quicker?
Back to Lily tarn and reverse the ascent route.
A pleasant evening.
Russell
Loughrigg 2 ways. 2 tarns and a lot of paths.
Perfect evening for a run so I decide to go up Loughrigg 2 ways I have never been, or at least not for a long time. I park in Clappersgate and set off up the small path from the phone box. Last time I went up this was was over 30 years ago. That makes me feel old. Soon climbing steeply I am hoping to find Lily Tarn. The map shows a path going straight there. There are a lot of paths! However I locate the tarn and then head off to pick up the main path down to Loughrigg tarn.
Here the map shows a path going past a farm and then climbing very steeply almost directly to the summit. Now I say map but although I did look at it earlier in the day I don't actually have one with me so memory is put o the test. Map and memory prove right and sure enough after a warm climb I pop out just below the summit. I am alone.
I follow the race route back to the main path and test the line along the wall. Better running than the other way but quicker?
Back to Lily tarn and reverse the ascent route.
A pleasant evening.
Russell
Thursday, 17 May 2012
Ankle, recce and loss of fitness.
The story starts a couple of weeks ago whilst in a race I turned my ankle descending a heathery slope. Over the years I have learnt to tell how seriously I had done it. This time I knew it was worse then one of those tweaks I occasionally have but not bad enough to keep me out of action for too long. I continue to descend steadily and at the bottom give it a minute in the river. I then jog the the next checkpoint. As I am OK doing this and climbing is not a problem I decide to continue. I might as well as getting back to the start would still mean a few miles walk. Strangely up and down hills are OK but flat running is more of a problem.
So as a result I do not run at all for 10 days. Then at training I manage OK so feel fit enough to at least try the Great Lakes recce we have planned. The day is windy with a forecast to get worse. We cut the recce short but still manage a good few hours out. Again I am OK on hills but still tentative on the faster running sections.
The following Tuesday I have a short run through Craggy Wood and over the scar. A modicum of fitness still remains but I will need to do much more before the LAMM in 3 weeks.
Training again goes well but the ankle is stiff the next day, cycling to work seem to help. I plan a couple of longer days out and hope as enthusiasm begins to return I will regain some stamina.
Russell
So as a result I do not run at all for 10 days. Then at training I manage OK so feel fit enough to at least try the Great Lakes recce we have planned. The day is windy with a forecast to get worse. We cut the recce short but still manage a good few hours out. Again I am OK on hills but still tentative on the faster running sections.
The following Tuesday I have a short run through Craggy Wood and over the scar. A modicum of fitness still remains but I will need to do much more before the LAMM in 3 weeks.
Training again goes well but the ankle is stiff the next day, cycling to work seem to help. I plan a couple of longer days out and hope as enthusiasm begins to return I will regain some stamina.
Russell
Monday, 7 May 2012
Highlander Mountain Marathon
14th and 15th April 2012.
Kinlochewe.
The weekend has finally come. The forecast is for cold weather but not much wind. A possibility of snow. Gear choice could be crucial. Not that I have that much to choose from. We arrive on Friday afternoon and register. We can start anytime between 7.30 and 8.30 am on Saturday morning. The start is a short walk from the event center so we plane to be there for approx 8.15. After the usual morning faffing around with gear deciding what to take and food etc we arrive at the start, what we have is what we have, too late to change our minds now so we join the queue, dib to start, collect our control descriptions and map and begin to mark up the route.
It is a nice change to only have 9 controls. We have done the score course in the past which involves plotting a lot and then taking some time to plan a route. This time we are off to control 1 on no time. Straight into a short steep climb. 1 dibbed and then a straight 4k to 2 and it begins to snow/hail/sleet. We plod on and eventually the control sight comes into view. A rough and boggy descent and we are there. Now the fun really starts. Our next control is another straight 4k away only this time it is directly on the opposite side of Slioch, a 980m Munro. Choices are north, longer but less climb. Or south, steep climb but more direct. We opt for south, as you do, but first we have to descend into Gleann Bianasdail, heathery and steep, then cross Abhainn an Fhasaigh (a big river)! We try several places before there is nothing to do but go for it. But not before I fully test the waterproofness of our maps. They are really waterproof! Once across I take the time to eat and tackle the climb.
It is here that I feel a little low. It usually happens at some point. But once the climb is over and I can take in the fantastic scenery I feel much better. As we reach our high point and begin to descend and contour to the control I feel it is a pity having come this far not to visit the summit. But as DW has been there before I will save it for another day. Perhaps the Slioch race. Mental note to check the date.
From Control 3 things pick up as controls are closer together. A short hop to 4 and then mainly on a path to 5 above Lochan Fada with another short steep climb at the end. I expect this to be tough but it goes OK. Although the day is getting warmer. 5 to 6 is a long contour up Allt Gleann Tulacha, we make good time here and admire the amazing cliffs under Beinn Lair. Again good time to 7. I find it tricky to pinpoint the control as I have written on my map and the pre marked circle obscures the contours but DW has it sorted and we are off to 8. We take a little time on this leg but it pays off as we stick to our line and avoid a climb other teams are taking. Then it is the final descent of the day to 9 and into the finish. 6 hours 21mins. A good day.
To get to mid camp we are treated to a RIB ride across Loch Maree. Exhilarating!
We eat well and then find we are in the chasing start. 5th place and 1st vets. So we collect our number for day 2 (B5). The chasing start is run in reverse.i.e. the fastest teams going of last at 8.30am. All teams not in the chasing start can go from 7.00 to 7.30am. We assume to ensure everyone gets back in good time and there is not too much waiting around at the finish. I sleep well but worry a little about keeping it up for day 2.
Day 2
The day starts cloudy and with some snow but soon clears and turns out to be fine all day. We make it to the start in time and are soon off. Only 7 controls today. The first dilemma of the day is the route to control 1. Most teams seem to be heading straight up the hill. We realise that we can run along the road for a mile or so and then climb direct to the control. It has to be a better option than a similar climb followed by an uncertain contour. It works well and at least one team before us has done the same as we follow their footprints in the snow.
Control 2 is approx 7k away with a 5k contour up Strath Lungard. It takes a long time, running is hard on the rough ground and we walk most of it. Control 3 is at a small lochan on Maell a Ghuithias. The route choice is the direct line dropping into Glen Grudie and a steep climb or stay high, longer but a shorter climb. We go direct. Another good choice as we hear later the high line was very awkward ground. I am surprised to climb well and we are soon up into the snow. My feet then get very cold and numb. No time to complain as we need to keep moving. With the last few controls close together we make good progress and no errors.
At control 4 we are passed by team B4 (a Swedish pair?) but manage to keep up with them to control 5. We pass B6. DW assumes B4 must be orienteers and so are good navigators therefore we have the option to just follow them to 6 and not waste time deciding what to do. A quick look at the map confirms they are heading in the right direction and we are off. They pull away but the route becomes obvious anyway and in no time we have dibbed 6 and 7 and are on the run in to the finish.
It is 1k or so on a good path. I usually find this hard work at the end of a mountain marathon but this time I feel OK. I can even stand and speak coherently at the finish. 5 hours 2 mins today.
We hold on the 5th place and first vets.
Russell
Kinlochewe.
The weekend has finally come. The forecast is for cold weather but not much wind. A possibility of snow. Gear choice could be crucial. Not that I have that much to choose from. We arrive on Friday afternoon and register. We can start anytime between 7.30 and 8.30 am on Saturday morning. The start is a short walk from the event center so we plane to be there for approx 8.15. After the usual morning faffing around with gear deciding what to take and food etc we arrive at the start, what we have is what we have, too late to change our minds now so we join the queue, dib to start, collect our control descriptions and map and begin to mark up the route.
It is a nice change to only have 9 controls. We have done the score course in the past which involves plotting a lot and then taking some time to plan a route. This time we are off to control 1 on no time. Straight into a short steep climb. 1 dibbed and then a straight 4k to 2 and it begins to snow/hail/sleet. We plod on and eventually the control sight comes into view. A rough and boggy descent and we are there. Now the fun really starts. Our next control is another straight 4k away only this time it is directly on the opposite side of Slioch, a 980m Munro. Choices are north, longer but less climb. Or south, steep climb but more direct. We opt for south, as you do, but first we have to descend into Gleann Bianasdail, heathery and steep, then cross Abhainn an Fhasaigh (a big river)! We try several places before there is nothing to do but go for it. But not before I fully test the waterproofness of our maps. They are really waterproof! Once across I take the time to eat and tackle the climb.
It is here that I feel a little low. It usually happens at some point. But once the climb is over and I can take in the fantastic scenery I feel much better. As we reach our high point and begin to descend and contour to the control I feel it is a pity having come this far not to visit the summit. But as DW has been there before I will save it for another day. Perhaps the Slioch race. Mental note to check the date.
From Control 3 things pick up as controls are closer together. A short hop to 4 and then mainly on a path to 5 above Lochan Fada with another short steep climb at the end. I expect this to be tough but it goes OK. Although the day is getting warmer. 5 to 6 is a long contour up Allt Gleann Tulacha, we make good time here and admire the amazing cliffs under Beinn Lair. Again good time to 7. I find it tricky to pinpoint the control as I have written on my map and the pre marked circle obscures the contours but DW has it sorted and we are off to 8. We take a little time on this leg but it pays off as we stick to our line and avoid a climb other teams are taking. Then it is the final descent of the day to 9 and into the finish. 6 hours 21mins. A good day.
To get to mid camp we are treated to a RIB ride across Loch Maree. Exhilarating!
We eat well and then find we are in the chasing start. 5th place and 1st vets. So we collect our number for day 2 (B5). The chasing start is run in reverse.i.e. the fastest teams going of last at 8.30am. All teams not in the chasing start can go from 7.00 to 7.30am. We assume to ensure everyone gets back in good time and there is not too much waiting around at the finish. I sleep well but worry a little about keeping it up for day 2.
Day 2
The day starts cloudy and with some snow but soon clears and turns out to be fine all day. We make it to the start in time and are soon off. Only 7 controls today. The first dilemma of the day is the route to control 1. Most teams seem to be heading straight up the hill. We realise that we can run along the road for a mile or so and then climb direct to the control. It has to be a better option than a similar climb followed by an uncertain contour. It works well and at least one team before us has done the same as we follow their footprints in the snow.
Control 2 is approx 7k away with a 5k contour up Strath Lungard. It takes a long time, running is hard on the rough ground and we walk most of it. Control 3 is at a small lochan on Maell a Ghuithias. The route choice is the direct line dropping into Glen Grudie and a steep climb or stay high, longer but a shorter climb. We go direct. Another good choice as we hear later the high line was very awkward ground. I am surprised to climb well and we are soon up into the snow. My feet then get very cold and numb. No time to complain as we need to keep moving. With the last few controls close together we make good progress and no errors.
At control 4 we are passed by team B4 (a Swedish pair?) but manage to keep up with them to control 5. We pass B6. DW assumes B4 must be orienteers and so are good navigators therefore we have the option to just follow them to 6 and not waste time deciding what to do. A quick look at the map confirms they are heading in the right direction and we are off. They pull away but the route becomes obvious anyway and in no time we have dibbed 6 and 7 and are on the run in to the finish.
It is 1k or so on a good path. I usually find this hard work at the end of a mountain marathon but this time I feel OK. I can even stand and speak coherently at the finish. 5 hours 2 mins today.
We hold on the 5th place and first vets.
Russell
Friday, 20 April 2012
More UTLD 50
Monday 9th April 2012
I just wanted to cover the last part of the UTLD 50 route that I m not sure of, except the first few miles where I hope will have enough people in front of me to follow. So I park at Elterwater and head of in search of the checkpoint at Chapel Stile. Soon located I start the run up the Langdale Valley. Over into Little Langdale and on to Tilberthwaite. All goes well so I climb up past the quarries and suss out the final leg route to Coniston (not all the way), then return to Tilberthwaite and take the short route under Lingmmor back to Elterwater.
It rained the whole way but I really enjoyed being out on my own. More reccies to come but am now happy with the route.
Russell
I just wanted to cover the last part of the UTLD 50 route that I m not sure of, except the first few miles where I hope will have enough people in front of me to follow. So I park at Elterwater and head of in search of the checkpoint at Chapel Stile. Soon located I start the run up the Langdale Valley. Over into Little Langdale and on to Tilberthwaite. All goes well so I climb up past the quarries and suss out the final leg route to Coniston (not all the way), then return to Tilberthwaite and take the short route under Lingmmor back to Elterwater.
It rained the whole way but I really enjoyed being out on my own. More reccies to come but am now happy with the route.
Russell
Monday, 9 April 2012
UTLD JNC combo
Saturday 7th April 2012
Feeling inspired and needing a good run before next weekends Highlander I plan a route from Pooley Bridge taking in the first 2 legs of the UTLD 50 and then returning back over part of the first leg of the JNC. However a little limited on time and a misjudgment of how far we could get meant the run was cut short a little but still achieved its' objective. At the start we met another team also reccying. One chap wearing a pair of Hoka's (sorry try this). So impressed I am thinking of getting a pair.
Having DW along meant not needing to consult the map or instructions as he did the 100 last year. Everything went well. Good weather, and good running. Just the right amount of time out and even managed a pint in the Hawkshead Brewery Staveley on the way back.
Pleased
Russell
Feeling inspired and needing a good run before next weekends Highlander I plan a route from Pooley Bridge taking in the first 2 legs of the UTLD 50 and then returning back over part of the first leg of the JNC. However a little limited on time and a misjudgment of how far we could get meant the run was cut short a little but still achieved its' objective. At the start we met another team also reccying. One chap wearing a pair of Hoka's (sorry try this). So impressed I am thinking of getting a pair.
Having DW along meant not needing to consult the map or instructions as he did the 100 last year. Everything went well. Good weather, and good running. Just the right amount of time out and even managed a pint in the Hawkshead Brewery Staveley on the way back.
Pleased
Russell
Tuesday, 3 April 2012
Wansfell Pike
Monday 2nd April 2012
The weather has pretty much held so I drive over to Troutbeck and park at the Church. A short road run and onto Nanny Lane. My legs feel the climb but I push on. Soon I leave the track by a gate on the left and follow the path to Wansfell Pike. It is bone dry. This is the fourth run in a row I keep dry feet! Feeling hungry I root around in my bum bag and come up with a couple of pieces of millionaires shortbread left over from the weekend. They do the trick nicely.
I decide to go back via Jenkin Crag. It is a route I have only done in the dark and in the other direction but I find my way and am quickly down to the main path. I take the opportunity to visit the viewpiont. The eastern fells had been clear but Coniston and the Langdales are in thick cloud. Running back along Robin Lane feels good. I have not seen another person all the time I have been out. I quite like that.
Home now for fishcakes, salad and a nice chardonnay.
Russell
The weather has pretty much held so I drive over to Troutbeck and park at the Church. A short road run and onto Nanny Lane. My legs feel the climb but I push on. Soon I leave the track by a gate on the left and follow the path to Wansfell Pike. It is bone dry. This is the fourth run in a row I keep dry feet! Feeling hungry I root around in my bum bag and come up with a couple of pieces of millionaires shortbread left over from the weekend. They do the trick nicely.
I decide to go back via Jenkin Crag. It is a route I have only done in the dark and in the other direction but I find my way and am quickly down to the main path. I take the opportunity to visit the viewpiont. The eastern fells had been clear but Coniston and the Langdales are in thick cloud. Running back along Robin Lane feels good. I have not seen another person all the time I have been out. I quite like that.
Home now for fishcakes, salad and a nice chardonnay.
Russell
Saturday, 31 March 2012
Kentmere and Mardale
Saturday 31st March 2012
After forking out for 2 new front tyres this morning it is time for another run to kill the pain (or at least swap it for another sort). Taking inspiration from recent runs by MW, DW & CS I park in Kentmere and head towards Shipman Knotts and Kentmere Pike. It is tough to get going and the clouds at the head of the valley look ominous. There are a few spots of rain. It is very unusual to keep dry feet here at any time but I do. All the usual boggy places are dry! At Kentmere Pike a take a sharp right an drop into Longsleddale (Saunders MM 2010 ground). I investigate some old mine workings, very spooky. Then follow the track over Gatescarth to Mardale Head. Rather unpleasant descent but only a flavour of what to expect in the UTLD later in the year.
After passing the head of Haweswater I take sharp left and head direct up Dudderwick, a good steep climb, and join the main path to Rough Crag. Here I pass a couple with 2 very small dogs. I press on up to Long Stile. Looking back the couple and dogs are continuing up. I am sure they know what they are doing. Anyway, who am i to judge? I am wearing shorts and a T shirt.
The summit of Racecourse Hill is brilliant. I had forgotten the last time I had been here on a clear day. Clag, wind, rain, ice and snow yes. Sun and a view, I had forgotten about these. I am alone and privileged. It make the hard start to the day and the lack of enthusiasm disappear. It is what it's all about.
I take the easy way down to Nan Beild pass, drop into the valley and am soon back at the car.
Good
Russell
After forking out for 2 new front tyres this morning it is time for another run to kill the pain (or at least swap it for another sort). Taking inspiration from recent runs by MW, DW & CS I park in Kentmere and head towards Shipman Knotts and Kentmere Pike. It is tough to get going and the clouds at the head of the valley look ominous. There are a few spots of rain. It is very unusual to keep dry feet here at any time but I do. All the usual boggy places are dry! At Kentmere Pike a take a sharp right an drop into Longsleddale (Saunders MM 2010 ground). I investigate some old mine workings, very spooky. Then follow the track over Gatescarth to Mardale Head. Rather unpleasant descent but only a flavour of what to expect in the UTLD later in the year.
After passing the head of Haweswater I take sharp left and head direct up Dudderwick, a good steep climb, and join the main path to Rough Crag. Here I pass a couple with 2 very small dogs. I press on up to Long Stile. Looking back the couple and dogs are continuing up. I am sure they know what they are doing. Anyway, who am i to judge? I am wearing shorts and a T shirt.
The summit of Racecourse Hill is brilliant. I had forgotten the last time I had been here on a clear day. Clag, wind, rain, ice and snow yes. Sun and a view, I had forgotten about these. I am alone and privileged. It make the hard start to the day and the lack of enthusiasm disappear. It is what it's all about.
I take the easy way down to Nan Beild pass, drop into the valley and am soon back at the car.
Good
Russell
Sallows
Tuesday 27th March 2012
The weather is too good to stay in and I feel a little tired of my usual runs from home so decide to head towards Troutbeck. Last year on a Kentmere run with DW we had stood on Sallows and contemplated the idea of a run on Applethwaite Common. Tonight was my chance to explore the area a little.
The last time I was here was over 10 years ago with DR. That day had been in rain, strong wind and almost zero visibility. Today could not be more different. I park at the end of Dubbs lane and jog up past the reservoir then over the stile and onto the fell. Pure pleasure, a grassy trod and the sun on my back. A couple of people pass me on their way down and then I am on my own. At the summit of Sour Howes the views are great (my photo's are not).
A great little area for an evening run but don't tell anyone.
Russell
The weather is too good to stay in and I feel a little tired of my usual runs from home so decide to head towards Troutbeck. Last year on a Kentmere run with DW we had stood on Sallows and contemplated the idea of a run on Applethwaite Common. Tonight was my chance to explore the area a little.
The last time I was here was over 10 years ago with DR. That day had been in rain, strong wind and almost zero visibility. Today could not be more different. I park at the end of Dubbs lane and jog up past the reservoir then over the stile and onto the fell. Pure pleasure, a grassy trod and the sun on my back. A couple of people pass me on their way down and then I am on my own. At the summit of Sour Howes the views are great (my photo's are not).
Onward to Sallows and more views then I head back.
Yes this is the summit in the foreground. No cairn but a nice view of the Kentmere fells. Retracing my steps I explore a little more ground south of Sour Howes but it does not look like it will be a good way back to the car so I head for the track. Another visit needed when I have more time.
The return run does however give great view of the Scafell Massif and another photo opportunity.
Russell
Wednesday, 28 March 2012
A Fine Weekend
Saturday 24th March 2012
The Helm Hill Ladies are planning to recce the up coming Coledale Horseshoe and I find myself persuaded to join them. Not that this is a problem. The forecast is great and it is just the sort of run I need to get me back in the game. We leave Braithwaite at 10.15am. A good start time. and head up the road (the worst part of the route). Soon climbing on the fell we reach Sleet How and it is warm but as the summit of Grisdale Pike approached the breeze picks up and conditions are perfect. There is quite a crowd up here but we do not stop.
After a short descent we take the trod missing out point 739 and drop to Coledale Hause. The first time I did this race it was an evening affair and the trod was no so distinct. I remember contouring across the scree and descending the open fell. It is a bit too obvious now. Jogging over the hause it was hard to ignore Eel Crag looming above looking dark and ominous in the shade. We meet a couple of Clayton ladies not sure of the route and careful to avoid any steep drops. I assure them it is OK and we ascend together bursting out into the sunshine one more and heading for the summit of Crag Hill.
The short descent from Crag Hill is a bit rough and rocky but there is no avoiding it. Then another contour around Sail brings you nicely onto a trod through the grass and heather down to rejoin the main path. Once again this trod did not used to be here. Is this fell running getting too easy? Drop left now and take the big track passing Outerside. Pick the right trod to turn off this and head for Barrow. Keep straight on at Barrow Door and the summit comes quickly.
Now all that is left is the brilliant descent to the finish. I try and encourage the ladies to lean forward and commit but this does not seem to go down well. However we are soon at the bottom and jogging back to the cars. Tea and the best flapjack ever are a great way to end the run.
Sunday 25th March 2012
Helm Hill Runners Downhill Championship race.
This year the downhill is at Cautley near Sedbergh. Descending from the summit of Yarlside over Ben End to finish at the footbridge. I am ably assisted in flagging the course by DW and MC. Both then time themselves from the top whilst I jog down and check the flag positions.
Once back I start to take registrations. DW heads back up to take on his starters duties. After a few late entries we end up with 19 runners. All return safely but with one DNF due to injury. Times will be calculated later. I am glad to get some positive feedback and most stayed a while to chat and enjoy the sunshine. I would like to keep it going. However I feel a few more entrants are needed.
Results
Russell
The Helm Hill Ladies are planning to recce the up coming Coledale Horseshoe and I find myself persuaded to join them. Not that this is a problem. The forecast is great and it is just the sort of run I need to get me back in the game. We leave Braithwaite at 10.15am. A good start time. and head up the road (the worst part of the route). Soon climbing on the fell we reach Sleet How and it is warm but as the summit of Grisdale Pike approached the breeze picks up and conditions are perfect. There is quite a crowd up here but we do not stop.
After a short descent we take the trod missing out point 739 and drop to Coledale Hause. The first time I did this race it was an evening affair and the trod was no so distinct. I remember contouring across the scree and descending the open fell. It is a bit too obvious now. Jogging over the hause it was hard to ignore Eel Crag looming above looking dark and ominous in the shade. We meet a couple of Clayton ladies not sure of the route and careful to avoid any steep drops. I assure them it is OK and we ascend together bursting out into the sunshine one more and heading for the summit of Crag Hill.
The short descent from Crag Hill is a bit rough and rocky but there is no avoiding it. Then another contour around Sail brings you nicely onto a trod through the grass and heather down to rejoin the main path. Once again this trod did not used to be here. Is this fell running getting too easy? Drop left now and take the big track passing Outerside. Pick the right trod to turn off this and head for Barrow. Keep straight on at Barrow Door and the summit comes quickly.
Now all that is left is the brilliant descent to the finish. I try and encourage the ladies to lean forward and commit but this does not seem to go down well. However we are soon at the bottom and jogging back to the cars. Tea and the best flapjack ever are a great way to end the run.
Sunday 25th March 2012
Helm Hill Runners Downhill Championship race.
This year the downhill is at Cautley near Sedbergh. Descending from the summit of Yarlside over Ben End to finish at the footbridge. I am ably assisted in flagging the course by DW and MC. Both then time themselves from the top whilst I jog down and check the flag positions.
Once back I start to take registrations. DW heads back up to take on his starters duties. After a few late entries we end up with 19 runners. All return safely but with one DNF due to injury. Times will be calculated later. I am glad to get some positive feedback and most stayed a while to chat and enjoy the sunshine. I would like to keep it going. However I feel a few more entrants are needed.
Results
Russell
Monday, 19 March 2012
Work, Mothers Day and Running
Friday 16th March and I am making plans for a good long run on Saturday before helping to flag the Winter League on Sunday. However best laid plans and all that. Work takes over and it looks like I will have to do a couple of hours on Saturday morning. Friday night and CC presents me with a list of errends to do after work (for Mothers Day) so I am only going to manage a much shorter run.
Leaving the Kirkstone I head for St Raven's Edge. Passing the 3 new wind turbines behind the inn. Good thing or bad thing? Discuss. I cut around to visit Hart Crag, Pike How (JNC checkpoint) then Stony Cove Pike and Caudale Moor. I check the routes to the little tarn just in case I am every selected to run the Ian Hodgson relay again. Well you have to remain positive! I get home in time to watch England thrash Ireland at rugby on St Patricks Day, excellent!
Sunday dawns clear and bright. I am envious of DW going for a long run. I help flag the Elterwater Winter League route then head home for more Mothers Day duties. Still, a free meal and 3 pints of Hawkshead in rhe Eagle and Child help the mood.
Conclusion: Work, Mothers Day and running do not mix.
Running followed by beer does so next weeks Hawkshead Brewery beer festival provides an ideal opportunity.
Russell
Leaving the Kirkstone I head for St Raven's Edge. Passing the 3 new wind turbines behind the inn. Good thing or bad thing? Discuss. I cut around to visit Hart Crag, Pike How (JNC checkpoint) then Stony Cove Pike and Caudale Moor. I check the routes to the little tarn just in case I am every selected to run the Ian Hodgson relay again. Well you have to remain positive! I get home in time to watch England thrash Ireland at rugby on St Patricks Day, excellent!
Sunday dawns clear and bright. I am envious of DW going for a long run. I help flag the Elterwater Winter League route then head home for more Mothers Day duties. Still, a free meal and 3 pints of Hawkshead in rhe Eagle and Child help the mood.
Conclusion: Work, Mothers Day and running do not mix.
Running followed by beer does so next weeks Hawkshead Brewery beer festival provides an ideal opportunity.
Russell
Monday, 12 March 2012
Trying to get fit
After Black Combe I am finding it hard to get any enthusiasm. Still not up to Monday training and not wanting to risk making the injury worse I give it a miss and do the circuit training on Tuesday with MC. It might be better to wait until after the Highlander to push it in case I make it worse. Wednesday at the club night the hill reps don't come easy but I am glad I did the session.
On Friday it is only 5 weeks to the Highlander so decide I had better concentrate on longer runs. A surprise visit from my daughter scuppers plans for Sunday but I manage a shorter run in the evening. During which I hatch a plan to do Fairfield on Monday night. I know this will mean coming down in the dark but I should make the top in daylight.
I only intend to go up and come down the same way and time is limited. I decide to see where I am in 1 hour and what the weather is like before committing myself to anything more. At Nab Scar I realise that of all the times I have been here I don't think I have visited the top. There are about 5 summits, some with cairns and some without. I go to them all just in case. Then I make good progress to Heron Pike but am now in the mist. I push on the Greatrigg Man. 59 minutes down and it is very gloomy, time to turn back.
I have a head torch but feel reluctant to use it. I really don't like staring down the tunnel of the beam. So progress is steady. 45 minutes to get down with pause to take in the view when I drop out of the mist. Do the lights of Amblside seam attractive? It is surprisingly warm. I am please with my effort and must now keep it up,
Sundays cake. Treacle tart and ice cream.
Russell
On Friday it is only 5 weeks to the Highlander so decide I had better concentrate on longer runs. A surprise visit from my daughter scuppers plans for Sunday but I manage a shorter run in the evening. During which I hatch a plan to do Fairfield on Monday night. I know this will mean coming down in the dark but I should make the top in daylight.
I only intend to go up and come down the same way and time is limited. I decide to see where I am in 1 hour and what the weather is like before committing myself to anything more. At Nab Scar I realise that of all the times I have been here I don't think I have visited the top. There are about 5 summits, some with cairns and some without. I go to them all just in case. Then I make good progress to Heron Pike but am now in the mist. I push on the Greatrigg Man. 59 minutes down and it is very gloomy, time to turn back.
I have a head torch but feel reluctant to use it. I really don't like staring down the tunnel of the beam. So progress is steady. 45 minutes to get down with pause to take in the view when I drop out of the mist. Do the lights of Amblside seam attractive? It is surprisingly warm. I am please with my effort and must now keep it up,
Sundays cake. Treacle tart and ice cream.
Russell
Saturday, 3 March 2012
Black Combe
Black Combe Fell Race. Saturday 3rd March 2012
I was very apprehensive about doing this again. It is one of those races where, even if you have done it before, it is easy to go wrong in bad weather. I was determined to get it right this time. The other reason for entering was to get some climbing in before the up coming MM's.
The forecast wasn't great but improving from 12 noon onwards. As it turned out this was spot on. Rain on the journey and low cloud when we arrived at Silecroft. We couldn't even see the first checkpoint, Seaness. After registration and chatting to friends we could see blue sky approaching and by the start all but the very summit of Black Combe was cloud free.
Because of the wet fields the start and finish was moved much closer to the fell gate. Just after noon we were off and into the short but steep first climb. I go very steady hoping this will pay off later. The main path to the summit is not steep and runnable for me if fit. Not so today. Runners I am normally up with are not far ahead so I am happy with that. The summit arrives and the mist is light enough to easily get the right route off.
After a short descent White Combe comes into view, on the run round I pick up a few places. Not least because after turning at the top of White Combe beck a brief hail shower comes in and people stop to put cags on. I look west and see it should only be brief so carry on. The hail is accompanied by a strong breeze and legs, arms and face are battered. It stings a lot. I run with my hand over my ear. A lot of runners finish with what looks like a nasty rash on the right hand side of any exposed parts.
Sorry about the quality of the photo. It is hard to photograph your own leg, the indoor lighting doesn't help. Anyway I hope you see what I mean.
I gain more places on the descent to the Fodder Rack and beck bottom. Then it is into the climb back up all the way to the South Summit. I expect to die here and suffer a lot but am surprisingly into a good pace and manage to keep it going. I even gain on a few and pass them near the top. Runners leave the checkpoint down the "racing line". I take my line further right to join the main path sooner. This works well and I gain half a dozen places.
2 or 3 more places gained on the descent and the finish comes into site. I hear feet behind me and so speed up but cannot shake them off. With 40 yards to go we are neck and neck. Ben warns me that the dibber boxes at the finish are in a tricky, slippy place so I just hold back in the last few yards allowing the other runner to out sprint me. This works well as he overshoots the line and I dib before him. Only 1 place by 1 second but it is a race. Even if I had thought I had given that sort of thing up.
Good runs also from Helm Hillers. Ben, Chris, Stewart, Lindsay, Steve and Victoria.
Russell
I was very apprehensive about doing this again. It is one of those races where, even if you have done it before, it is easy to go wrong in bad weather. I was determined to get it right this time. The other reason for entering was to get some climbing in before the up coming MM's.
The forecast wasn't great but improving from 12 noon onwards. As it turned out this was spot on. Rain on the journey and low cloud when we arrived at Silecroft. We couldn't even see the first checkpoint, Seaness. After registration and chatting to friends we could see blue sky approaching and by the start all but the very summit of Black Combe was cloud free.
Because of the wet fields the start and finish was moved much closer to the fell gate. Just after noon we were off and into the short but steep first climb. I go very steady hoping this will pay off later. The main path to the summit is not steep and runnable for me if fit. Not so today. Runners I am normally up with are not far ahead so I am happy with that. The summit arrives and the mist is light enough to easily get the right route off.
After a short descent White Combe comes into view, on the run round I pick up a few places. Not least because after turning at the top of White Combe beck a brief hail shower comes in and people stop to put cags on. I look west and see it should only be brief so carry on. The hail is accompanied by a strong breeze and legs, arms and face are battered. It stings a lot. I run with my hand over my ear. A lot of runners finish with what looks like a nasty rash on the right hand side of any exposed parts.
I gain more places on the descent to the Fodder Rack and beck bottom. Then it is into the climb back up all the way to the South Summit. I expect to die here and suffer a lot but am surprisingly into a good pace and manage to keep it going. I even gain on a few and pass them near the top. Runners leave the checkpoint down the "racing line". I take my line further right to join the main path sooner. This works well and I gain half a dozen places.
2 or 3 more places gained on the descent and the finish comes into site. I hear feet behind me and so speed up but cannot shake them off. With 40 yards to go we are neck and neck. Ben warns me that the dibber boxes at the finish are in a tricky, slippy place so I just hold back in the last few yards allowing the other runner to out sprint me. This works well as he overshoots the line and I dib before him. Only 1 place by 1 second but it is a race. Even if I had thought I had given that sort of thing up.
Good runs also from Helm Hillers. Ben, Chris, Stewart, Lindsay, Steve and Victoria.
Russell
Sunday, 19 February 2012
Golden Pearl
Sunday 19th February
A race to celebrate Pete and Anne Blands 50th wedding Anniversary and 30 years of running the shop.
The route is 2 laps of the summer Reston Scar Scamper.
I have a jog in the morning to test out my injury and all seems well (well almost) so I run.
The weather was perfect and I run OK. Better than expected actually. I can only put it down to the Monday nights giving me a bit extra speed. The climbs were tough and I will have to improve.
Russell
A race to celebrate Pete and Anne Blands 50th wedding Anniversary and 30 years of running the shop.
The route is 2 laps of the summer Reston Scar Scamper.
I have a jog in the morning to test out my injury and all seems well (well almost) so I run.
The weather was perfect and I run OK. Better than expected actually. I can only put it down to the Monday nights giving me a bit extra speed. The climbs were tough and I will have to improve.
Russell
February runs, training and injury.
Not posted for a while so here is an update. February got off to a good start. I was improving!! Monday training was paying off. On Sunday 5th I had a good 2 hour run from home over the scars (Cunswick and Scout) and back. It snowed quite a bit but I really enjoyed it. My route took me cross country to the Crook road and then up onto Cunswick. Along to the mushroom down across the racecourse and into Kendal. Back up through Serpentine Woods, across the golf course to Cunswick again then return by same route. The ground was frozen making the boggy bits much better.
Monday training was interesting because of the snow which was soft in places and crunchy in others. I don't know if I ran well or others were more cautious.
Wednesday training went well also. We found a snow and ice free road on Shap Road Industrial Estate. Again I notice the improvement. But then on the warm down get a pain in my right leg just above the knee. It feels minor (I hope).
Saturday I flag the Fairmile Winter League route with Tim. The ground is frozen and the frozen snow patches make us question if the race can be run. An overnight thaw helps and the race goes ahead, good.
My leg hadn't bothered me so I turn up at Mondays session as usual. On rep 3 the pain returns. I decide to stop. I want to race on the following Sunday so give Wednesday a miss. Cycling to work all week does not seem to effect the injury but I choose not to run until the race and hope it is OK.
Russell
Monday training was interesting because of the snow which was soft in places and crunchy in others. I don't know if I ran well or others were more cautious.
Wednesday training went well also. We found a snow and ice free road on Shap Road Industrial Estate. Again I notice the improvement. But then on the warm down get a pain in my right leg just above the knee. It feels minor (I hope).
Saturday I flag the Fairmile Winter League route with Tim. The ground is frozen and the frozen snow patches make us question if the race can be run. An overnight thaw helps and the race goes ahead, good.
My leg hadn't bothered me so I turn up at Mondays session as usual. On rep 3 the pain returns. I decide to stop. I want to race on the following Sunday so give Wednesday a miss. Cycling to work all week does not seem to effect the injury but I choose not to run until the race and hope it is OK.
Russell
Sunday, 29 January 2012
Lakeland 50 Recce
Saturday 28th January 2012
Waking to see the fells covered in snow I pondered what to do that day. I had thought of a recce of the first section on the Joss Naylor Challenge but the snow would have made that difficult.Finding the right lines and trods etc. So I opted for plan B and a recce of part of the Lakeland Ultra 50 mile. The section I chose was from Troutbeck to Skelwith Bridge. A lot of the route I already know so this was an exercise on joinig the dots as it were.
Parking near the church I reversed the route up to the Garburn track to be sure where to leave it and drop into the valley. Then I headed along Robin Lane and Jenkin Crag into Ambleside. Contrasting views here.
Firstly the Fairfield Horsehoe looking splendid.
Then this blot on the landscape.
I did not actually go to the checkpoint at Rock & Run but cut through the lanes to the park and headed to Loughrigg. Straightforward over the main path and down to the step road descent to Skelwith Bridge.
So recce complete it is just a case of getting back to the car in Troutbeck. I am planning to do the Loughrigg Silver How Chase in three weeks so check out the route to Lily Tarn on the way back.
Back through Ambleside I stop at Fellinis to book our cinema and meal for the evening and reverse the route to Troutbeck. A good run.
Sunday I had hoped to get onto the scar and support those Helm Hill Runners doing 'That's Lyth' but family matters get in the way, and more decorating. Although we are now on to choosing light fittings.
Today cake is treacle tart. Excellent.
Last week it was spicy apple.
Russell
Waking to see the fells covered in snow I pondered what to do that day. I had thought of a recce of the first section on the Joss Naylor Challenge but the snow would have made that difficult.Finding the right lines and trods etc. So I opted for plan B and a recce of part of the Lakeland Ultra 50 mile. The section I chose was from Troutbeck to Skelwith Bridge. A lot of the route I already know so this was an exercise on joinig the dots as it were.
Parking near the church I reversed the route up to the Garburn track to be sure where to leave it and drop into the valley. Then I headed along Robin Lane and Jenkin Crag into Ambleside. Contrasting views here.
Firstly the Fairfield Horsehoe looking splendid.
Then this blot on the landscape.
I did not actually go to the checkpoint at Rock & Run but cut through the lanes to the park and headed to Loughrigg. Straightforward over the main path and down to the step road descent to Skelwith Bridge.
So recce complete it is just a case of getting back to the car in Troutbeck. I am planning to do the Loughrigg Silver How Chase in three weeks so check out the route to Lily Tarn on the way back.
Back through Ambleside I stop at Fellinis to book our cinema and meal for the evening and reverse the route to Troutbeck. A good run.
Sunday I had hoped to get onto the scar and support those Helm Hill Runners doing 'That's Lyth' but family matters get in the way, and more decorating. Although we are now on to choosing light fittings.
Today cake is treacle tart. Excellent.
Last week it was spicy apple.
Russell
Thursday, 26 January 2012
Thursday
A day to recover. I don't even cycle to work. Only a meeting in the warehouse followed by a ham sandwich. Then home to sand the skirting boards. I love decorating :-(
Russell
Russell
The Crosby Commoner
Saturday 21st January 2012
A new race for the calendar and also one for our club championship. It turned to be excellent if a little challenging in the strong wind. It never seemed to be behind us.
HH had some good results with DW 4th and KA first lady.
One to look out for next year.
Russell
A new race for the calendar and also one for our club championship. It turned to be excellent if a little challenging in the strong wind. It never seemed to be behind us.
HH had some good results with DW 4th and KA first lady.
One to look out for next year.
Russell
Weekly update
After the Crosby Commoner Sunday was a day of rest. Only a gentle walk with the wife. Followed by tea and cake of course.
Monday training was a tough one, a few more reps than usual but felt good at the end.
Tuesday was a quick, ha ha, 10k whilst MC was at training and Wednesday 8 reps on Captain French Lane.
That's enough until Saturday.
Russell
Monday training was a tough one, a few more reps than usual but felt good at the end.
Tuesday was a quick, ha ha, 10k whilst MC was at training and Wednesday 8 reps on Captain French Lane.
That's enough until Saturday.
Russell
Thursday, 19 January 2012
More training.
Monday training was as usual hard but good (in the end). The ground was frozen and because of the recent wet weather very uneven. We all survived in tact.
Wednesday produced the largest group so far. 50+. Too big really for many reasons. Will need to split up if that many turn up again.
Russell
Wednesday produced the largest group so far. 50+. Too big really for many reasons. Will need to split up if that many turn up again.
Russell
Coniston Fells
Saturday 14th January
5 of us set of from near the Sun Inn Coniston on a round of the local fells. The weather was excellent. Clear and cold. The climbs warmed us up and the breeze on the tops cooled us down. We made good progress with a couple of short stops for snacks and were back down in a little over 3 and a half hours. Soup, chips and beer were had. Then head home to paint the ceiling.
Fine views and company. Top day!
Russell
5 of us set of from near the Sun Inn Coniston on a round of the local fells. The weather was excellent. Clear and cold. The climbs warmed us up and the breeze on the tops cooled us down. We made good progress with a couple of short stops for snacks and were back down in a little over 3 and a half hours. Soup, chips and beer were had. Then head home to paint the ceiling.
Fine views and company. Top day!
Russell
Friday, 13 January 2012
Back to training.
Monday 9th January
First Monday back and it is tough going. Especially after yesterday. Really clarty underfoot. I struggle and think of packing it after 2 reps. But then I always feel like that. I manage to keep going and finish. Glad I did.
Tuesday 10th January
Steady run from Dallam whilst MC is in the gym. My legs feel like lead to start but improve a bit after half an hour. No speed though.
Wednesday 11th January
Reps on Peat Lane. I am taking the session otherwise I might not have come. Again fell better as the session goes on. Big group again but it went well. Looking forward to the Helm. Enthusiasm for the street is low.
Russell
First Monday back and it is tough going. Especially after yesterday. Really clarty underfoot. I struggle and think of packing it after 2 reps. But then I always feel like that. I manage to keep going and finish. Glad I did.
Tuesday 10th January
Steady run from Dallam whilst MC is in the gym. My legs feel like lead to start but improve a bit after half an hour. No speed though.
Wednesday 11th January
Reps on Peat Lane. I am taking the session otherwise I might not have come. Again fell better as the session goes on. Big group again but it went well. Looking forward to the Helm. Enthusiasm for the street is low.
Russell
Buttermere Sailbeck
Sunday 8th January
We start from the old purple house (not there any more) and head straight up Causey Pike. A good climb to get things going. No problem finding the trod in the heather, there is now a trod leading straight to it. Not how it used to be. Into the mist by the time we reach the top and the wind picks up. Hat and gloves time.
Steady progress over Sail and onto Eel Crag. A quick bearing almost brings us onto the trod towards Whiteless Pike but we soon recover and are heading down this brilliant descent to Buttermere. One of the best race descents there is. Honest.
It is much warmer down here, hat and gloves come off. A short climb on the road and we are on the muddy trod heading to the steeper climb to Knott Rigg. Not a checkpoint so we contour past the summit. Colder now with the wind back and rain. Hat and gloves back on. Quickly on to Ard Crags and the final descent. It is super slippy but I keep my feet until 10 yards form the bottom when I trip over myself. Nice somersault.
Change to warm clothes and then a coffee. Back to Hawkshead Brewery, Staveley and a pint of Stout.
Nice.
Russell
We start from the old purple house (not there any more) and head straight up Causey Pike. A good climb to get things going. No problem finding the trod in the heather, there is now a trod leading straight to it. Not how it used to be. Into the mist by the time we reach the top and the wind picks up. Hat and gloves time.
Steady progress over Sail and onto Eel Crag. A quick bearing almost brings us onto the trod towards Whiteless Pike but we soon recover and are heading down this brilliant descent to Buttermere. One of the best race descents there is. Honest.
It is much warmer down here, hat and gloves come off. A short climb on the road and we are on the muddy trod heading to the steeper climb to Knott Rigg. Not a checkpoint so we contour past the summit. Colder now with the wind back and rain. Hat and gloves back on. Quickly on to Ard Crags and the final descent. It is super slippy but I keep my feet until 10 yards form the bottom when I trip over myself. Nice somersault.
Change to warm clothes and then a coffee. Back to Hawkshead Brewery, Staveley and a pint of Stout.
Nice.
Russell
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