The Dodds but not Helvellyn.

Out for the second day in a row so I know this is going to be a tough day. Especially as I am out with DW, CB and KA. The plan I think was to do Helvellyn and the Dodds. However, shortly after we leave Threlkeld it becomes all too apparent that I won't be able to keep up. I urge the others to go on at their own pace and pick me up on the way back but they keep waiting for me. At Great Dodd it starts to get proper wintery and at Stybarrow Dodd spikes are needed, we decide to turn back at Raise. I think a good decision in the conditions and at my speed. KA was OK with this and I hope the others didn't mind the shortened day too much. It did have the advantage of allowing us time for a pint (or two) in the Eagle and Child. Plus chips. By the fire!

Legs ache all over today but I look upon it as one step on a return to fitness and take it as a positive.

I might even start 2014 with a race as Nine Standards is in the club championship.

Russell

Loughrigg Silver Howe Loughrigg

Saturday 28th December 2013

Having spent most of the festive period suffering from a cold it is time to get out even though probably not fully recovered. The weather has eased a bit but I do not want to go too high so I decide on Loughrigg Silver How. My route out is a little convoluted but return is more or less via the race route.

Cool and breezy on the tops so I find shelter to enjoy the views.

However perhaps due to my lack of recent training or illness the pace is noticeably slow. To achieve anything in 2014 I will have to get down to some serious work.

Russell

Longsleddale round

Saturday 30th November 2013

I have arranged with DW to go out today and the route choice is up to me. I decide that Longsleddale would be good as we can take in some summits that I have never visited before. CB and CS come along too and we set off from Sadgill on a perfect bright clear morning.

I had no idea how to get onto the fell from the parking area but we spot some walkers and a gate nearby so are striaight into I the first climb of the day. Hard work for me as I usually need half an hour to get going these days. The others take it in their stride, chatting as we ascend. The path takes us nicely to the first top at Grey Crag.

With the way to Tarn Crag unclear and me in the lead thing do not go well. The trod I pick runs out and we are crossing boggy ground. Still we are there soon enough admiring the view and taking a few photos. Next it is on to Branstree via a loveley grassy descent and climb then descend to the top of Gatescarth Pass.

Climbing again to Harter Fell a deer crosses our path some distance ahead. Haven't seen them in the valley for a while. Then we follow the main path over Kentmere Pike and on to Shipman Knotts. We try to unlock the secrets of the descent back to the main Sadgill track and then drop down to the cars.

A good outing and an area I would be keen to visit again.

Russell

Faulds Brow Orienteering.

Sunday 24th November

My third foray into the world of orienteering. This time it is the northern end of the Lakes near Caldbeck. The area is a bit different to the last two events. Much more open and featureless terrain. Lots of controls in pits or depressions whereas previously it had been crags and boulders. So they were much harder to locate quickly. Much easier to overshoot. 

It was good to have CB along on his first event and once 'orientated' he did well. 

Finished off with a pint of Black Sail in The Crown at Heskett Newmarket.

Super

Russell.

Kentmere race route.

Sunday 10th November 2013

Not being able to run at Dunnerdale was disappointing but the compensation was excellent. A round of Kentmere with CB. The weather was perfect as the photos show. Better than the view (nice rainbow though ?) from Staveley the previous day. A pleasure to be out. More please.

Day at the track cycling.

MC and me had a day out at Manchester velodrome. Excellent fun. You are really close to the action.

Great pic by Mat

Evening Potter

Last Tuesday at short notice DW and I head out from Staveley Mill Yard up through Craggy Wood and on to Potter Tarn. Down to Hagg Foot then back along the river. 

Good to be out at night again but inferior torch and need for new batteries made it interesting.

Good fun.

Russell

Grasmere round

Saturday 12th October 2013

Out today with CB. We avoid Langdale because of the race there today. From Grassmere we go via Stone Arrthur to Great Rigg Man and on to Fairfield. Cool, breezy and misty here so we quickly descend to Grisdale Hause. The path has become a bit washed out but lower down Fix the Fells are doing some work. Let's hope this is an improvement. 

Now we head over Seat Sandal and down to Dunmail Raise. A short break and we are soon into the intimidating climb to Steel Fell. It goes well but I will need to be quicker if I am to attempt the JNC. From here on it is a steady pace over Calf Crag then along the ridge to Helm Crag and down to Grasmere to finish. 

A good day but my foot is a little sore afterwards. Hope is is not a serious thing.

Russell

Orienteering

Sunday 6th October 2013

First proper orienteering event today. High Brow near Dockray. Did blue course. Slight mis judgement on the first control but after that it went well. I would certainly like to do more.

Sorry this meant I could not get to support all our HHR teams in the IHMR.

Russell

Loughrigg

Sunday 29th September 2013

A late run this weekend so I head off at 5pm for what I am going to call my Loughrigg run. I am not going into detail about the actual route but I really enjoy this alternative way to the summit. Surprisingly I go well and have some energy. No doubt this will be a regular for me.

Russell

Legs 1 & 2

Sunday 22nd September 2013

I join CH, AB and VU for a recce of legs 1 and 2 of the Ian Hodgson relay. Off to a slow start as one of our number is a little worse for wear after an evening of over indulgence. We find good lines and enjoy the weather. There is a new path section near Hayeswater. I assume this is to allow them to remove the weir. Pic below. I wonder what it will look like afterwards.

 A very pleasant day out but certainly need to do more training. The ladies are going great and I am sure they will do very well on the event.

Russell

Up The Buckle

Buachaille Etive Mor (Stob Dearg)

Sunday 8th September 2013

The day after the Ben. 

I had never done anything after the Ben race before so this seemed like a good idea. And surprisingly it was. A very pleasant ascent. Unlike last time I was here. That is another story. 

Russell

Photos.

A good day.

Our day. No view :-(

Ben Nevis 2013

Saturday 7th September 2013

As we head up the M6 on the way to my 13th Ben Nevis race I feel more than a little apprehensive. Not nervous about the race itself but more about how I am feeling about the whole process of coming to a race like this. Having done 12 previous Bens my motivation is low and the ever-resent prospect of completing 21 to receive a commemorative plaque plays on my mind. Should I call it a day? Is it going to be unlucky number 13? Emotions all over the place. 

After eating and setting up camp it is soon time to settle down for the night. Not much sleep is usual for me on the first nights camping. Tonight is no different. The morning comes with rain showers and cloud but slowly improves . The race would be run in dry conditions for most and a clear summit. After registration we get prepared. Much debate about what to wear. Shorts and vest seam optimistic at first but once the start approaches I decide to shed the long sleeve top. A good decision. It is very warm on the first half of the climb and I suffer. 

The path to half way may be awkward and hard work but I know it will be much worse on the return journey. Above half way it cools and I settle into a good rhythm. The lack of training showing but progress is steady. Running on the summit plateau hurts the feet. Glad to be turning I decide to go at a comfortable pace and not really race back down. This works well and I pass runners when the opportunity arises and quite enjoy myself. 

At the grass bank things change. Runners, including me, weave and wobble our way down like bow legged drunks at 11.30pm on Finkle Street on a Saturday night. Legs buckling on the final few steps to the Red Burn. The tourist path as expected is an ordeal. Just an exercise in trying not to fall over (again). This year I manage it but the pace is slow. The road is almost a relief. 

My slowest time but I am not disappointed. Actually quite positive. Perhaps if I do some training next year (?) I might do better.

Russell

Red Screes

Saturday 31st August 2013

A quick trip to Kirkstone for some last minute Ben training. First up the path. OK. Descend via the scree. Not good. Back up old Ian Hodgson route. Oh dear. Descend tired. Enough. 

Outlook?

Russell

Orienteering.

Wednesday 27th August 2013

Training tonight has been taken over by Ben's orienteering event. A great turnout and very well organised. We have fun but work hard. Not the best route choices but end up with a prize and cut legs. Brambles!!

Could this be an annual event. Winner organises next year?

Russell

Helvellyn

Sunday 25th August 2013

Heading off I know it will be a busy day in the Lakes because it is Grasmere Sports. I am right, traffic is queued back to Ings. My plan to is to go to Patterdale. If only I could find somewhere to park. Some people don't seem to care much as cars are abandoned everywhere. I find a place just past Glenridding and start my run up Seldom Seen.

Not many people about here, this would change. At Nick Head I climb above the old quarries to White Stones then contour on a nice trade to Sticks Pass. It changes. People and mountain bikes. Along the main path to Helvellyn and then down Swirral Edge. Lots of people here so I bypass them safely. Can't understand why they all just follow each other. There is plenty of room. On to Catstye Cam, I strangely have never been to this summit before. 

Down now and across the outflow of Red Tarn and on to Hole-in-the-Wall and Birkhouse Moor. I gets hot now and I struggle of the descent to Glenridding. The stream is nice and cooling. But the jog back to the car is purgatory.

Russell

An ascent and descent of Sgurr Mhairi (Glamaig)

Thursday 15th August 2013.

On our holiday to Skye I am privileged at last to have the opportunity to climb Glamaig. Just the very top is in cloud as I quite nervously set out across the initial boggy section. The trod peters out at the start of the main climb and is intermittent at best. I basically head straight up. Evidence of people passing this way is clear but it does not make any difference. It is basically pick you way up steep ground, intermittent scree and rock. I am really enjoying it and feeling good. This is really what being out on the hill is all about. In some ways I am glad to reach the top but it comes too soon. I think of the Ben race in a few weeks. Only another 2000 feet more than this. I do not dwell on the summit as I cannot see more than 30-40 meters and it is now raining. As I turn to descend it is very unclear which way to go, it all looks the same. After a short run and then some scree I see a line of fence posts that I know from the map will take me too far south. I cut across right and follow trods and more scree. The mist has dropped lower now. I quickly check the map and take a bearing. Then head down.  Not the perfect line but am where I want to be. No where near Thornthwaite Crag!! I soon pick up the trod back to the road. Perhaps not the best racing line but hopefully I will find that out some day. After concentrating hard for the entire run I now feel a great sense of relief and achievement. I smile to myself for the rest of the day. Happy to eat, have a drink and just be.

Where to eat in Edinburgh

The Caley Sample Rooms.

Excellent food and service. Lots of beers. Midweek fixed price menu great value.

On bus route 34. 10 mins from Princes Street.

Go.

Kentmere

Sunday 11th August

Time to start to think about the up coming Ben Nevis race. A text from CB prompts me into action and we head up Kentmere for one of my favourite variations on the horseshoe. Along the road to Hartrigg and then the track to the reservoir. From the top of the reservoir it is straight up the ridge to Ill Bell. A great climb. After a passing shower the weather clears and we are pretty much cloud and rain free for the rest of the run.

Contouring Froswick we take in Thornthwaite Crag and High Street. Excellent views from here. On to Nan Bield and I am impressed by two mountain bikers descending into Kentmere. We continue to Kentmere Pike and Shipman Knotts (race next week). All finished off with a pint at Hawkshead Brewery.

I did take a picture from High Street but phone seems to be playing tricks. So here is a picture of CB on Garburn in the Lakeland 50.

Russell

Fairfield

Sunday 4th August 2013

Good to be out on one of the lakes classic horseshoes. A steady run in good company is just what I needed. Cool and breezy on the tops but we don't hang around so no need for anything but a short sleeve top. The weather just held for us. Tea and cakes after courtesy of DW. Thanks.

Russell

It's a hot one!

Is this the future?

SLMM

6th and 7th July 2013

Corney Fell

It had all been a bit of a rush getting ready for this event. A few things left until the last minute. However DW and I find ourselves on the start line of another SLMM Bowfell course. I ask myself have I taken on more than I can manage this time? 

Too late as we get our control sheet and start to mark up the map. Then into the first short steep climb to White Hall Knott. A small hill with more than its fair share of gorse bushes. From there we basically head north towards Devoke Water, then east to Green Crag. All is going well. A steady pace, I hope DW is happy with this. I am out to enjoy and not compete. Turning west we pass north of Devoke Water over Rough Crag and onto the day one finish at Stainton. I feel in good shape and have been much worse at mid camps before.

We have plenty of time to organise ourselves and enjoy a fine evening. I do not sleep much as it is very warm and close. Eventually the morning comes. Not being in the chasing start provides us with plenty of time to eat and pack up. We get the control descriptions early and plot our route. All looks good until the final control at the small tarn below the summit of Black Combe. The sting in the tail perhaps.

The distance to the first control on Yoadcastle summit is deceptive and also deciding which of the many  bumps is the right one provides a small challenge. We get it pretty much spot on. Some don't. After the next couple of controls we start a long section along the west side of the map. 9K or so in a straight line but plenty of dipping in and out of gills and becks. We stay high to avoid the worst but the long contouring begins to irritate my left ankle. I had given it a bit of a tweek earlier (not unusual for me). The up and down stuff was much kinder to it if not anything else. 

Then en route to the last two controls before the climb to Black Combe we encounter the heather. Trying at first it becomes increasingly energy and morale sapping. As we round each bump, ridge or spur I hope to see lovely short green grass but it never comes. Then when finally in site of the control we have to descend into Millergill beck and climb out the other side, still in the heather. My will to just put one foot In front of the other is tested to the limit. I contemplate sitting down and just crying for a bit. But DW has pressed on and I must follow. I take a short refreshing break in the stream and try to establish a rhythm.

The combination of the time out, heat, lack of breeze and lack of sleep all combine to make this a weary ascent. Other teams around are in equally bad shape and I see two where the stronger partner is carrying both packs. As nice as this seems I could not do that as I would feel I had failed in some way. But once we reach the main path to Black Combe and the last control the end is literally in sight. Just the small matter of descending 500 meters to the finish. In a straight line. The last part being through bracken getting taller and thicker all the time.

Joining the track for the last couple of hundred meters to the finish my legs wobble for a moment before DW encourages me on and we run to the finish. Soak in the river, change and eat. A relief to just finish but like runners do, once recovered, we have to look at the results. We had gained 6 places since the overnight camp to finish 17th. And we're 13th on day two. An indication a think of just how hard that finish was for everyone.

Would I do it again? Ask me in 6 months.

Russell

Training

Wednesday 26th June

Not good tonight as my hay fever has kicked in much worse today. It is bad this year. 

Very frustrating.

Russell

Potter Fell

Sunday 23rd June

My planned run for today came a little earlier than expected. I was happily sitting enjoying watching the bowling competition at Staveley when two familiar faces appeared over the wall. DW and KA. They persuade me to go out early. We follow the same route as a run a couple of weeks ago. Not blogged. Potter Tarn, Potter Fell and Brunt Knott. Enjoyable but hard work for me.

Russell

Gummers How race

Saturday 22nd June

I manage to get a late entry for this run-row-run-row race. Fun as always mostly coming from the rowing bits. HelmHill do well.

Lakeland 50 First Bit

Sunday 16/06/13

I was planning a run for today but maybe not quite as long as this. CB wanted to recce the first half of the Lakeland 50. Or Pooley Bridge to Kentmere. It was going to be a challenge as I had the extra pressure of having to be home by a certain time.

We were dropped off at 9.17am so were now committed. Everything went well and we had no route finding problems. I had done some of this with DW last year. By the time we reached Haweswater it was getting hot. The run along to Mardale Head could be pleasant but today it seemed never ending. With Gatescarth looming ahead.

The climb went slowly for me but CB was going well. The run down to Sadgill took its toll on my knees and the old niggles returned to slow me considerably. After the initial climb we cut the route and went via Skeggles Water and down to finish at my house in Staveley.

5 and a half hours or so. A good pace for the actual event.

And I was home in time.

Russell

Training surprise

Wednesday 12th June

Felt good at training tonight. First time for a while.

Have been feeling a but unenthusiastic recently so this is good.

Some bluebells at Rydal. Picture from a couple of weeks ago, just thought I would pop it on here before deleting it. They were better in reality.

Lily Tarn

3rd June 2013

A gentle jog in the very pleasant evening sun.

In my new shoes.

Helvellyn and the Dodds

Plenty of life left

The OCT claims another victim.

OCT

Saturday 18th May 2013

After approx 7 hours and 20 minutes we arrive at Cocklay Beck. We decide to retire. 

Well, in reality the decision was made much earlier in the day. 

Our start was steady and just as planned. We were right on the schedule. But the going got tough after Helvellyn. Wythburn was much boggier than normal and my running and climbing only got slower. 

At Angle Tarn I was still feeling confident that I could keep going at the same pace but it went rapidly downhill from there. 

Seeing familiar faces returning from Scafell Pike summit en route to Little Narrowcove gave me a boost and our line off went OK. Emerging from the mist to see we had caught up with four teams all looking at maps and knowing exactly where we were going was a nice moment. But when we start to run down Mosedale I have nothing. Wobbly, feeling ill and unable to run I knew it was time to call it a day.

There is always going to be a few moments of doubt after making the decision but it was certainly the right one. To put me, my partner and potentially the race organiser and Mountain Rescue in a difficult situation would be foolish.

What this does do is make me question my chances of doing the JNLC. Will be out of any distance training for a while. Re think needed. 

Biggest disappointment is letting CB down. Hope he goes on to make a successful completion. Maybe with me next year!! Optimism is good.

Russell

Not running

Silver How

Monday 6th May 2013

So I find myself with reason to be at Elterwater on a perfect Bank Holiday Monday evening. I take a unconventional route to Silver How where the views are superb. Photos do not do it justice. What an evening after the long winter. With lots of paths and trods to choose I follow my nose to get back to the car. A wonderful hour.

Photos from the summit.

Russell

Scafell Pike

Saturday 4th May 2013

CB and I head off from Langdale towards Scafell Pike to have a look at a few route choices for the up coming OCT. The weather is cool and cloudy but forecast to improve. Steady progress to the summit. Is is quite calm but poor visibility. We take a bearing and get a reasonable line. I am happy with this way down but it is not the most direct. Unfortunately it does not clear and we cannot see the alternatives that I would like to investigate. On the day I would be OK with this route or if clear we may be able to find the line I have used previously.

Across Great Moss then at Lingcove Beck we pick up the Great Lakes route as far as Red Tarn. Then descend back into Oxendale. A good steady run.

Russell

Dockray Hartside

Wednesday 1st May 2013

Race 2 of the Helm Hill Runners club championships.

This is a tough 6 mile race with a mile of uphill road before taking to the fell. This does not suit me and I set off slowly with heavy legs. After the first checkpoint on High Brow I have picked up a few places. The descent and the first part of the ascent to Hartside are tussocky and boggy. I find the lack of spring in the legs continues but I am able to maintain my pace all the way to the summit, gaining on a couple of runners ahead.

Here it is decision time. Most runners descend to Little Aira Beck. But I prefer to take an high line around to Swineside Knott. Further but better running. I do not see any runners ahead of me, just the odd footprint. Later I hear some others also chose this way. I gain another couple of places and another two on the final descent from Common Fell.

A great evening race. The first of a series of 4 races. Blencathra, Dockray Great Dodd and Askham being the others. Hope to do these if possible.

Russell

TWA

Saturday 27th April

I have been thinking about this race route for some time. Combined with the fact I have never been to Grasmoor and need some long training runs it seemed the perfect choice. Earlier plans had been thwarted by the weather and I wanted to do it in good conditions. I couldn't do the race because I had a meeting in Blackpool with Jim Kerr so this Saturday provided the perfect opportunity. It meant I would be on my own but sometimes that can be a good thing. Friends were having successful runs in The 3 Peaks and Highlander MM.

The forecast was good, breezy and the odd shower early in the day then sunny with light winds later, this worked out perfectly. Looking at the results from the race the week before I planned to be out for 5 hours. So leaving Stair at 9.07am I head up Causey Pike. At Sleet Hause I reach the (fresh) snow line and have to put on cag, hat and gloves. Soon over the summit the route to Outerside is straight forward. Although I can see the next objective at Coledale Hause the best route is unclear. I go with what looks right. Employing proven MM tactics of the more direct the better. Avoiding unnecessary climbing. There is enough of that without adding more.

Not sure how well that worked out, I would like to know the race line. As I ascend I see the cloud lifting and at the Hause all the summits are clear. My earlier thoughts were that if the summit of Grasmoor was in clag I would cut the corner direct to Whiteless Pike. No question now so I climb enthusiastically for the summit. What a great place to be on such a perfect day (alone). At least it felt that way after such a long winter. The views are a privilege but the cold northerly breeze prevents loitering.

Descending now and onto the Buttermere Sailbeck race route to Whiteless Pike. Conditions are much more benign. A brief photo stop and into the unforgiving descent to Sail Beck. Here I remove the cag etc. Hat and gloves would be on and off later in the day. Once again it is pick a line time to Newlands Hause. I am happy with the line. Climbing again by Moss Force and on to High Snockrigg, another new summit. Across Buttermere Moss, boggy, with Robinson looming. It had been my plan to look at my watch here to make a decision but it was such a good day I decided to continue and finish the route whatever. Almost all the snow from earlier in the day had gone and all the high summits are clear. I am forced to slow and take in this incomparable vista.

Now it was a case of following the AW route. Easier said than done but it goes OK. The main thing being the descent from Dale Head. I am happy with the line I chose. A mixture of pleasure and pain at the end. The river provides welcome welcome cooling relief. A fraction over my allotted time but the day demanded a slower complementary pace.

Photos are:
Looking back from Coledale
Robinson from Whitless Pike
Grasmoor from Whitless Pike
View from Dale Head to Gable.

Russell

Mondays and training.

Started going out on the fells on Mondays now the clocks have changed. First run was Wansfell from Troutbeck church. Nanny Lane still had quite deep snow drifts between the walls. The gate half way up was partly buried. The farmer told me that a week earlier it was covered and you could walk straight over it. Much less snow on the ridge from Baystones to the Pike but breezy. Worked hard and felt good.

Did Reston Scar Scamper race route one night but can't remember which one.

Last Monday it was Potter Fell and Brunt Knott. Hadn't done much at the weekend so felt strong. Ran some of the up hills I have recently had to walk through lack of motivation and heavy legs. As much as I like running in good company it is nice to be out on your own sometimes. Especially in the evenings.

Back to Helm training. I found last year that taking the sessions meant that I did not work has hard myself as I should do. This year I will try to rectify that.

Russell

Extended Kentmere

Saturday 13th April

CB and myself plan a few hours out from Kentmere. This is his last long(ish) run before the 3 Peaks and our first run as just us before the Old County Tops. The chosen route goes like this. Kentmere. Shipman Knotts. Kentmere Pike. Harter Fell. Gatescarth Pass. Haweswater. Dudderwick. Rough Crag. High Street. Thornthwaite Crag. Ill Bell. Kentmere.

On the tops the snow patches make for hard going. Never knowing quite how firm the foot fall would be we are slowed by constant slips or sudden knee deep plunges. In clag for the first half of the run but at High Street the sky brightens and we look up to see blue sky. From then on the day was warm and very pleasant. A good day.

Russell

Potter to Yarlside

6th and 7th April 2013

On the Saturday I really do potter over Brunt Knott and Potter Fell, passing Dubbs and descending in vague paths. Following signs and arrows I eventually emerge near Burneside and make my way home along the river.

Sunday is the Helm Hill Runners downhill championship race at Yarlside. I had better go because I am the organiser. Picking up DW, my invaluable helper and time keeper, we drive over. The day looks perfect. Not too warm or cold. Mainly sunny. Spring! The race goes well but could do with a few more runners. I hope all those involved, runners, helpers, supporters and spectators had a good day.

We finish with refreshments in the Cross Keys. Perfect.

Russell

Grasmere gingerbread

Sunday 31st March 2013

DW, CB and I plan a long run. The higher fells may be too wintry so we decide on what I think is an LDWA route from Grasmere. A good decision. Leaving the village we climb first to Alcock Tarn and then a rising trod towards Nab Scar. From there along to Great Rigg Man and increasing snow and ice. At the summit we turn, after donning spikes, towards Arthur's Pike then descend into Tongue Gill, (spikes off) then cross the A591 and head up Greenburn.

The valley is followed to Greenburn Bottom from where we ascend to Pike of Carrs and into the snow again. Then along the ridge to Helm Crag (The lion and the lamb). A short descent into Easdale then ascend once more this time on to Blea Rigg. Continuing along to Silver How is hard work as the time and distance begin to tell. The paths are also partly covered in snow adding to the effort.

Then it is decision time. Go for the last summit of Loughrigg or the quick way back to Grasmere. After a brief discussion and some dithering it is on to Loughrigg. I am glad we did but at the time I would have felt no shame in descending.

This is a really good route. A little contrived but that does give the opportunity to shorten it at several places if required.

Russell

Shipman Knotts

Friday 29th March 2013

Most of today spent doing little jobs and pottering about. Every time I look out of the window I see Shipman Knotts and Kentmere Pike resplendent in their snowy overcoats. Eventually I find time and head up the valley. Parking at Maggs How I follow the race route. Sometimes the snow drifts make this tough going or force deviations. Sunny spells are welcome and the breeze is not too strong. Glad to be out but I am not feeling my best. Icy parches make the descent tricky and I recce a new line. Good for today but in summer the bracken might make it impractical.

Russell

Howgill snow and wind

Sunday 24th March

Edale Skyline race cancelled due to the weather so our team decide on a couple of hours in the Howgills. Ably lead by RS. Leaving well prepared we contour under the fells before climbing to The Knott. Then descending steeply into Hobdale Beck is fun. The climb out to Middle Tongue is not. On the exposed ridge the strong and cold easterly wind lets us know our stay here today will be a test.

Once the climbing is done we head for Bram Rigg Top and descend the ridge on firm snow (see pic) to Bram Rigg Beck. We thought there would be some shelter from the wind on this side but not so. It was even worse. Buffeting us all the way back up onto the ridge above Nab and on to Arant Haw.

The final stretch over Winder is a relative pleasure with the wind behind, the last descent is the usual quad basher.

Good to be back and enjoy home made cupcakes. Thanks AB.

Russell

Coniston round

Saturday 16th March

The forecast is not great for today. So DW and I change plans, saving our big day out for better times. We head to Coniston and familiar ground. Or so we thought. Heading up the main path there are spots of rain but as we leave this and turn for Wetherlam we are in snow. Also the first to pass this way today. We break trail happily moving along the ground seeming familiar.

The light is very flat and it becomes hard to define the ground ahead. Soon we arrive at a large cairn. At first I thought it was the summit but not so. It just doesn't look right. We press on. Finally the true summit arrives. Descending we pick up the cairns again but the path is obliterated by hard snow so out with map and compass. On a bearing we stay high to avoid the steep ground. This work well and we find ourselves on the familiar approach to Prison Band.

Again breaking trail, then half way up we meet a party descending. Now with easier going Swirl How comes quickly. As does the main path to Brim Fell. In the cloud everything looks the same, thankfully the line of cairns and footprints combined with our sense of direction keep us on the right route to Coniston Old Man. Retracing our steps then following a couple of pairs of fell shoe prints as we head to Doe Crag. Then on to Brown Pike and our return to Coniston via the Walna Scar Road.

A very enjoyable run.

Russell

Black Combe race

Saturday 2nd March 2012

Always a good way to kick off the racing year. If you have not already done 10 Winter League races. Back to the usual start and finish as the fields were relatively dry. My warm up felt OK but the race start was terrible. Heavy legs and hard work but I am determined to keep running until the steepness of Seaness prevents it.

I deliberately set a steady pace to the summit of Black Combe, perhaps too steady as I feel out of place in the field. In the mist now but I get the right line around to White Combe and gain a few places and a few more down to the fodder rack and river crossing. Now the real work begins. Surprisingly I feel better than I thought I would. I start to gain on the group ahead but am passed by 4 or 5 runners. However I 'dig in' as they say and by the summit I feel good and have caught then all up.

The mist has come right in now and I ignore everyone else and take my own line back to the main path. This works well as I pass all but one without even seeing them. I chase this runner all the way down slowly gaining. Approaching the finish I finally catch them and although crossing the line behind them my better dibber technique enables me rightly or wrongly to be placed ahead of them in the results ( sorry Anna).

My time is 5 minutes slower than I would like but that is usually the case these days. But I am still relatively pleased. The pie peas back in the village hall were very welcome. And all for £6. This really in one of the best races in the calendar.

Russell

Helvellyn and the Dodds

Saturday 23rd February 2013

DW, CB and I head for Threlkeld to do the race route.

Although a reasonably nice day in the valleys the tops are in mist and still have snow. The climb up Clough Head seems harder than last time but I can only go at my pace. I am finding more and more that the start of runs is harder and it takes a while to get going.

After Great Dodd the snow and ice increases and at Lower Man we don Kahtoolas. A good decision. They make the return so much easier, especially the descents. There were a few Mountain Rescue call outs on Helvellyn this day.

I work as hard as I can but still get left behind on the climbs. Nice of the others to wait for me. Soon we descend back to Newsham and things warm up. Coffee and cake courtesy of DW very welcome.

Russell

Fairfield

Saturday 16th February 2013

Not a great forecast but need to get out today as am on family duties tomorrow. I decide on Fairfield from Grasmere via Stone Arthur and see how it goes from there. Quite wet underfoot to start with but then things became gradually more frozen. The summit of Great Rigg Man was bleak. From there the snow became more crusty and icy. The breeze picked on Fairfield, not a place to hang around today.

The descent to Grisdale Hause is not great in summer. Today decidedly unpleasant. As height was lost the snow became softer and rocks more prominent. Care needed. Once down it was a relief to be out of the wind. Most of the ascent of Seat Sandal was in deep snow and very hard going. I can only gain comfort from the fact that this must be good training.

From the summit I take a bearing and head off into the whiteness. However I find myself heading too far right. The snow drifts have a crusty surface as my shins can testify. After correcting my line I am soon at the pointy rock spike. Although below the snow now the steep and rocky ground is tricky. I am careful.

At Dunmail I consider Steel Fell, wanting to recce an alternative line. Conditions are against me on this so part way up I contour to the ridge and head back down to Town Head. Only 2 and a half hours but very hard work at times.

Always try to take a positive.

Russell

Langdale

Saturday 9th February 2013

The plan was to do more recceing for the JNC but the weather was not playing ball. Snow and low cloud. Still it was a good opportunity to try alternative lines in poor visibility. Langdale was the chosen venue and DW and I head up Stickle Gill and Blea Rigg to Sargeant Man. From there we dropped to below Calf Crag. The line I wanted to try follows Birks Gill then continues almost directly to High Raise. This worked well. The snow made for hard going but I think it could the way to go. Just one more alternative to try and of course do again it better conditions when I can check it against the schedule.

From High Raise we pick up the snow covered trod to the top of Stake Pass. This line will need a bit more attention. Stick to the path or take more direct but on potentially poorer ground. Now we follow the OCT route for a while then try a line to Rossett Pike that I had used last summer. In the poor visibility we cut up too soon and after orientating ourselves head along the ridge to the summit. Then down the main path and along the valley to the NDG.

Finishing of with a pint of Winter Warmer in the Hawkshead Brewery.

A very good training run and a couple of things learned. A good day.

Russell

Leg 1 JNLC recce

Saturday 2nd February 2013

I have been planning this run for a while but never had the chance due to time and weather. The forecast was very good if a little breezy (it was) so no excuse. The scariest moment of the day came on the drive over. A patch of ice by Brotherswater momentarily took my destiny out of my own hands.

Parking no problem today and I am soon off up the road and track to Hayeswater. A little more height gained and I am into the sunshine. But also to wind. Hat and gloves on. It was to be this way all day. At The Knott I am onto snow. It is frozen but just enough give to allow safe passage without need for crampons. Just as well as I had decided to leave my Kahtoolas behind. After reaching Rampsgill Head I follow to ridge all the way back to Loadpot Hill.

Now the fun begins. Time to set the watch and see if I can keep to the schedule. I drop the odd minute and the going is variable. The wind cannot decide if it wants to help or hinder. The snow mostly firm but occasionally the frozen drifts give way. I am also constantly distracted by the view west. Probably as good as it gets. I had no camera so you'll have to take my word for it. They will live in the memory. I suspect on the day I won't have the time for such luxuries. If you had the good fortune to be out this day you will know what I mean.

I descend happily back to Hartsop and warmer temperatures. The car park is now chocker! The drive home is a pleasure. I always know I have had a good run when driving back my mind wanders over the days events, I am smiling and nothing bothers me. Not even news about idiot politicians, football fixing and the price of petrol on Radio4.

Russell

Snowy day.

Saturday 26th January

The predicted snow finally came making my cycle home last night entertaining.

This morning after snow clearing duties I ran the Reston Scar Scamper race route. Quite breezy on the top so I guess it would be a lot worse on the high fells.

Great to be out in these conditions. The steep descents were interesting. Thawing quickly now so if the rain comes tonight I don't think there will be much left tomorrow.

Russell

The training begins

Saturday 19th January 2013

Provisional date for JNLC attempt set as 20th July 2013.

Last week I had a look at the last part of the first leg. Parking at Kirkstone I ran out to Thornthwaite Crag. Then set the clock and timed myself back. Quite pleased I managed to keep to the schedule (just).

Today I went out with DW. Parking at Dunmail we climbed up Willie Wife Moor to Dollywagon then on to Nethermost Pike and Helvellyn. Thinking going back would be too short we continued to Whiteside and Raise. Down Stake pass to Stanah bridge. Back along the paths and forest roads to Dunmail.

A very good run. More of these needed.

A small slip resulted in a bruised knee but hey ho that's the way it goes.

Must keep motivated.

Russell

New Years Day Run

Tuesday 1st January 2013

The weather was a little grim so I opted for a short run over Cunswick and Scout Scars. A good way to start the new year. Hope to keep it up.

Russell