Cautley Winter League

Sunday 8th March 2015

I made a last minute decision not to go orienteering today, too much hassle. So went to Cautley Winter League fell race instead. It is a short race, approx 4k but with the 500m of climb in a little over a kilometre it is a real toughy. I knew I would struggle because I have not done anything like this for some time. I was right.

I joked at the start that my plan was to set off steady and then ease off. As it turned out this happened naturally without me having to think about it. Although I climbed at a consistent pace it was pitifully slow. The descent was better but I clearly was not my usual self. Legs at the end were totally shot.

The route goes from the foot bridge at Cross Keys to the summit of Great Dummacks and back, see map.

Russell

Cunswick Scar Winter League

Sunday 1st March 2015

A long time since I have done a Winter League race so I approach this with some trepidation. My warm up feels terrible (as usual). It will no doubt be fast and furious at the front. I opt for a steadier start. It is hard work but I run better than expected. Only a couple of short steeper section reduce me to a walk. I just don't have that extra spring in the legs to power me upwards.

The weather turns grim towards the end but on a good note I manage to dig in and pass a few runners  in the final stages. This is encouraging as I was expecting to be dying on my feet at this stage. Probably won't make it to any more KWL this year but maybe next?

Russell