24th September 2011
This was a 6 mile fell race and really all runnable so didn't suit me at all. The first couple of miles were across waterlogged fields and passed a strategically places cattle feeder. To say it was muddy would be an understatement. My legs felt a bit heavy to start with but after the first (only real) climb I picked up a bit and ran well to the finish.
There was a good turnout from the club as it was a championship counter and also many juniors. Club members picked up a good haul of prizes. Just a pity not all stayed to receive them.
Excellent cakes and tea at the finish.
A cracking race!
Russell
Saturday, 24 September 2011
General update
Since the Mountain Trial I have done a few local runs and trained on the Helm as usual. To be honest I have been feeling quite good. Last week I did a 7 mile road run and finished of by timing myself over the last 2 miles. I used to this when I trained for the London Marathon a few years ago. To my surprise I had not lost much speed, something which was bothering me recently. Buoyed by this I weighed myself. Pleasantly shocked to find I have not put on any weight. The beer, wine and cake diet is still working!
Russell
Russell
Saturday, 17 September 2011
Ten 'must do' fell races.
10 races all fellrunners should do.
My opinion I know. But I'm right!
Ben Nevis
Jura
Wasdale
Coniston Gullies (bofra)
Wasdale Show (bofra)
Three Peaks
Grasmere Guides Race
Lake District Mountain Trial
Dunnerdale
Shipman Knotts
Please note:
List subject to change according to future performances in any of the above. Amount of beer drunk or bribery.
Russell
My opinion I know. But I'm right!
Ben Nevis
Jura
Wasdale
Coniston Gullies (bofra)
Wasdale Show (bofra)
Three Peaks
Grasmere Guides Race
Lake District Mountain Trial
Dunnerdale
Shipman Knotts
Please note:
List subject to change according to future performances in any of the above. Amount of beer drunk or bribery.
Russell
Thursday, 15 September 2011
Lake District Mountain Trial
Sunday 11th September
LDMTA
Haven't done this for a few years and don't have the best memories of it. But for some unexplainable reason I decided to give it another chance. The men's course (now the classic) is a very tough day out so I opt for the medium course, previously the women's course. There is also a short course. I think they changed things around because some women wanted to do the longer course, and were more than capable of it, and some men, getting older, didn't fancy such a long day out. So now all courses are open to all. Providing you have the necessary experience.
The location this year was Mungrisdale. Back 'o' Skiddaw. I had a leisurely start time of 9.24. But my lift had 8.42 so we set off at 7.00am. There was much discussion in the car of the area, weather, and how long we could expect to be out. The forecast was terrible! So it was a relief to find out on arrival that the courses would be shortened. Registered and ready I made my way to the start. Kit checked I wait my start time.
All too soon it is go and I collect my map. It is quite a distance to the first control but on a good path to begin with. This gives a good chance to work out the route as I climb steadily up to Mungrisdale Common. I find out later that others, including the winner and second place, took a different route. But the splits show not much in it. Therefore I conclude that my line must have been better! CP1 dibbed and off to CP2 on The Knott. I remember parts of this section from the Rab MM a couple of years ago and manage to avoid most of the heather. I remind myself of the strategy to set off steady and keep keep going. It worked for me at the Ben last week. So I hold back a little on the climb.
After CP2 runners are taking various routes but I decide to stick to mine and not be distracted. I have learnt from the last few years of MM's with DW to decide on your own route and stick to it. If often works out OK. I see JR (not a reference to Dallas) and wave. Because the course is shortened it means CP3 is a bit of an out and back route but I am soon heading for CP4 at Bowscale Tarn. Again I pick my own route ignoring others, it seems to be working. But then I find myself at the river Caldew. I could run 1km down stream to the bridge or follow my planned route accross the river and direct. A look at the hillside ahead and no one is in sight. Is this a bad decision? Only one way to find out and I search for a crossing point. Nothing obvious so I go for it. It soon gets deeper and faster but I am committed. With the opposite bank almost within reach I slip and after some panic, splashing, swearing and thrashing I grab the far bank and haul myself out. Surprisingly map still in hand. Is has been a while since I got my 25m breaststroke certificate but now I realise it was well worth the effort.
After recovering my composure I get some jelly babies down and head up the climb. Runners appear from nowhere. Some form the out of bounds! Again my line proves good and I gain places. Meeting BJ at the tarn. The final climb is daunting but there is no option. Whichever way you go it's steep. Again I pace myself. Concentrate on the map and control descriptions. Look ahead and choose a good lines. On the run in to the last control, and finish, I feel good. Please to finish ahead of the bad weather I am soon changed and discussing the day with fellow competitors over a bowl of curry, tea and cake.
Will I be back next year? Who knows. Perhaps I'll wait until I am 50.
Russell
LDMTA
Haven't done this for a few years and don't have the best memories of it. But for some unexplainable reason I decided to give it another chance. The men's course (now the classic) is a very tough day out so I opt for the medium course, previously the women's course. There is also a short course. I think they changed things around because some women wanted to do the longer course, and were more than capable of it, and some men, getting older, didn't fancy such a long day out. So now all courses are open to all. Providing you have the necessary experience.
The location this year was Mungrisdale. Back 'o' Skiddaw. I had a leisurely start time of 9.24. But my lift had 8.42 so we set off at 7.00am. There was much discussion in the car of the area, weather, and how long we could expect to be out. The forecast was terrible! So it was a relief to find out on arrival that the courses would be shortened. Registered and ready I made my way to the start. Kit checked I wait my start time.
All too soon it is go and I collect my map. It is quite a distance to the first control but on a good path to begin with. This gives a good chance to work out the route as I climb steadily up to Mungrisdale Common. I find out later that others, including the winner and second place, took a different route. But the splits show not much in it. Therefore I conclude that my line must have been better! CP1 dibbed and off to CP2 on The Knott. I remember parts of this section from the Rab MM a couple of years ago and manage to avoid most of the heather. I remind myself of the strategy to set off steady and keep keep going. It worked for me at the Ben last week. So I hold back a little on the climb.
After CP2 runners are taking various routes but I decide to stick to mine and not be distracted. I have learnt from the last few years of MM's with DW to decide on your own route and stick to it. If often works out OK. I see JR (not a reference to Dallas) and wave. Because the course is shortened it means CP3 is a bit of an out and back route but I am soon heading for CP4 at Bowscale Tarn. Again I pick my own route ignoring others, it seems to be working. But then I find myself at the river Caldew. I could run 1km down stream to the bridge or follow my planned route accross the river and direct. A look at the hillside ahead and no one is in sight. Is this a bad decision? Only one way to find out and I search for a crossing point. Nothing obvious so I go for it. It soon gets deeper and faster but I am committed. With the opposite bank almost within reach I slip and after some panic, splashing, swearing and thrashing I grab the far bank and haul myself out. Surprisingly map still in hand. Is has been a while since I got my 25m breaststroke certificate but now I realise it was well worth the effort.
After recovering my composure I get some jelly babies down and head up the climb. Runners appear from nowhere. Some form the out of bounds! Again my line proves good and I gain places. Meeting BJ at the tarn. The final climb is daunting but there is no option. Whichever way you go it's steep. Again I pace myself. Concentrate on the map and control descriptions. Look ahead and choose a good lines. On the run in to the last control, and finish, I feel good. Please to finish ahead of the bad weather I am soon changed and discussing the day with fellow competitors over a bowl of curry, tea and cake.
Will I be back next year? Who knows. Perhaps I'll wait until I am 50.
Russell
Thursday, 8 September 2011
Training This Week
Wednesday 7th September 2011
Trainig night on The Helm and this week it should be some sort of hill reps. Mindfull of some athletes recent racing and the upcoming Mountain Trial it isn't going to be too hard. I plot a zig zag route with some flat bits and not too long. 8 reps with a jog back down recovery.
I think it works well. All runners complete the reps within a reasonable time so no need to stop those at the back. The recovery is perhaps a little short but there is a cold breeze and it was getting dark. We need to keep moving. Also we are a hill racing club and you don't get any recovery in a race!
Russell
Trainig night on The Helm and this week it should be some sort of hill reps. Mindfull of some athletes recent racing and the upcoming Mountain Trial it isn't going to be too hard. I plot a zig zag route with some flat bits and not too long. 8 reps with a jog back down recovery.
I think it works well. All runners complete the reps within a reasonable time so no need to stop those at the back. The recovery is perhaps a little short but there is a cold breeze and it was getting dark. We need to keep moving. Also we are a hill racing club and you don't get any recovery in a race!
Russell
Sunday, 4 September 2011
Ben Nevis Race 2011
Ben Nevis 3rd September 2011
So today will be my 11th consecutive Ben race. Still on course for 21 in a row. For various reasons I had not made any plans for accommodation and the weather forecast was so bad for Friday night that I ruled out camping again. So it will be up and down in the day, a 500 mile round trip. The drive went smoothly with only minor traffic along Loch Lomond. I arrive in Fort William at 10.45am. A text from DW is very welcome and I meet him and KA in the car park at Claggan Park. Tea and biscuits, excellent.
After registration I attach numbers front and back to my vest and make the decision as what to wear. Long sleeve top it is. Some friendly banter helps to calm the nerves and all too soon I am warming up on the field. Light rain is falling. I congratulate Andy from Rossendale on his 21st Ben Race. When I was doing my first he was doing his eleventh. The nerves have disappeared as we file into the start area. My plan is to just go steady the whole way and not worry about what every one else is doing. Don't want to get into any actual racing!
We are off! . I find the road hard going but once into my stride my tactics seem to be working perfectly. The tourist path is awkward running. I tell myself that it might feel tough now but coming back down will be much worse so just get on with it. I am happy to fall into line for the zig zag cut offs. Setting my own pace I ignore all the runners passing me, there is a long way to go.
After Red Burn (half way up) the angle steepens. Again I fall into line. Occasionally I pass someone. Occasionally someone passes me. I am never struggling with the pace. The odd bit of rain comes and goes as does the breeze. Long sleeves the right choice. The angle eases and I do bit of running, feels surprisingly good. The summit is is always further than you think, even after 10 races. I hand in my tag and head down. There are a lot of walkers today. They have as much, if not more, right to be there. I say a lot of thank you's.
I pass a lot of runners on the descent to half way and down the grass bank to the burn. No one passes me despite my deliberately conservative pace. The combination of tired legs and the rocky tourist path is not a good one. Full concentration required. This is where runners usually pass me but this time it is me doing the passing. Well two anyway. Through the gateway I say to myself 'last bit before the road concentrate'. I immediately trip and do a sideways roll. Concerned walkers ask if I'm OK. A brief yes thanks and I start to run hoping that I am.
I take my secret line and the running is better until I slip again and this time bang my knee on a rock. I hurts as I start to run but soon wares off. Onto the road and a few pass me. I recognise them as those I passed earlier. Taking my own advice I try and keep form and am determined to run to the finish (because I don't always manage it). It works and I even pass a few people.
Looking at my watch as I cross the line, 3.20pm. It takes a few seconds to work out but I must have run around 2 hours 20 mins. Very pleased with that. Steady tactics seem to have worked. A dip in the river. A shower. A cup of tea with DW and KA. More chat and race analysis and I am on the road home at 5.00pm
As I leave Fort William and prepare for the drive home I am feeling very pleased with myself. The drive through Glen Coe as the cloud lifts is magnificent. The motorway is quiet, as I pass the open section south of Glasgow just before the Lowther Hills the sun is setting to my right and behind. Catching the tops and ridges. Some fields are still very green whilst the slightly higher ground is starting to look very autumnal. Bracken and heather turning brown. I feel privileged.
An hour or so before home my left knee begins to feel the effects of the knock and stiffens up. But I press on and am soon there. Eat and relax. I go to bed with a sore left hand, left knee, left hip, left elbow and left shoulder. I wouldn't have it any other way. A great day.
Thanks to DW for the hospitality.
Next year?
Of course. Just hope I get an entry.
Russell
So today will be my 11th consecutive Ben race. Still on course for 21 in a row. For various reasons I had not made any plans for accommodation and the weather forecast was so bad for Friday night that I ruled out camping again. So it will be up and down in the day, a 500 mile round trip. The drive went smoothly with only minor traffic along Loch Lomond. I arrive in Fort William at 10.45am. A text from DW is very welcome and I meet him and KA in the car park at Claggan Park. Tea and biscuits, excellent.
After registration I attach numbers front and back to my vest and make the decision as what to wear. Long sleeve top it is. Some friendly banter helps to calm the nerves and all too soon I am warming up on the field. Light rain is falling. I congratulate Andy from Rossendale on his 21st Ben Race. When I was doing my first he was doing his eleventh. The nerves have disappeared as we file into the start area. My plan is to just go steady the whole way and not worry about what every one else is doing. Don't want to get into any actual racing!
We are off! . I find the road hard going but once into my stride my tactics seem to be working perfectly. The tourist path is awkward running. I tell myself that it might feel tough now but coming back down will be much worse so just get on with it. I am happy to fall into line for the zig zag cut offs. Setting my own pace I ignore all the runners passing me, there is a long way to go.
After Red Burn (half way up) the angle steepens. Again I fall into line. Occasionally I pass someone. Occasionally someone passes me. I am never struggling with the pace. The odd bit of rain comes and goes as does the breeze. Long sleeves the right choice. The angle eases and I do bit of running, feels surprisingly good. The summit is is always further than you think, even after 10 races. I hand in my tag and head down. There are a lot of walkers today. They have as much, if not more, right to be there. I say a lot of thank you's.
I pass a lot of runners on the descent to half way and down the grass bank to the burn. No one passes me despite my deliberately conservative pace. The combination of tired legs and the rocky tourist path is not a good one. Full concentration required. This is where runners usually pass me but this time it is me doing the passing. Well two anyway. Through the gateway I say to myself 'last bit before the road concentrate'. I immediately trip and do a sideways roll. Concerned walkers ask if I'm OK. A brief yes thanks and I start to run hoping that I am.
I take my secret line and the running is better until I slip again and this time bang my knee on a rock. I hurts as I start to run but soon wares off. Onto the road and a few pass me. I recognise them as those I passed earlier. Taking my own advice I try and keep form and am determined to run to the finish (because I don't always manage it). It works and I even pass a few people.
Looking at my watch as I cross the line, 3.20pm. It takes a few seconds to work out but I must have run around 2 hours 20 mins. Very pleased with that. Steady tactics seem to have worked. A dip in the river. A shower. A cup of tea with DW and KA. More chat and race analysis and I am on the road home at 5.00pm
As I leave Fort William and prepare for the drive home I am feeling very pleased with myself. The drive through Glen Coe as the cloud lifts is magnificent. The motorway is quiet, as I pass the open section south of Glasgow just before the Lowther Hills the sun is setting to my right and behind. Catching the tops and ridges. Some fields are still very green whilst the slightly higher ground is starting to look very autumnal. Bracken and heather turning brown. I feel privileged.
An hour or so before home my left knee begins to feel the effects of the knock and stiffens up. But I press on and am soon there. Eat and relax. I go to bed with a sore left hand, left knee, left hip, left elbow and left shoulder. I wouldn't have it any other way. A great day.
Thanks to DW for the hospitality.
Next year?
Of course. Just hope I get an entry.
Russell
Tuesday, 30 August 2011
Fairfield Horseshoe
Monday 29th August
Planned to have a good run this morning and get some climb in. Fortunately DW texts me with an invite to Fairfield Horseshoe, Rydal at 8.30am. I am in the middle of the game with no name at my brother in laws 50th birthday party so my reply is not too clear. Some red wine had been consumed and more was to follow!
So dragging myself out of bed at 7.50am was hard but needed to be done. Who knows how long I would have stayed there without the motivation of a brisk 9 miles and some 3000+ feet of climbing. A quick breakfast and assuming we will be going at a good pace I throw minimal kit together. I question whether I should be driving at all this morning but don't feel too bad after the juice and cereal.
Arriving at Rydal I find a few others have come along and this makes it a good sociable run. The climbs up Nab Scar and Heron Pike go on longer than expected, but they always do. I decide this is a good thing and ideal preparation for Ben Nevis next week. A cool breeze picks up so I put on my jacket and decide it is best o keep moving. After the summit of Fairfield the wind is behind and the going good.
The views are great and we take time to admire them. Spotting lines and checkpoints for the up coming Ian Hodgson Relay. Then it is down. One of my favourite pieces of fell running in the Lakes. The Fairfield race probably has the worst climb and the best descent going (only my opinion). Things warm up so it is off with the jacket and enjoy the feeling of moving over the short grass at the perfect angle to stride out and just let it happen.
I have to dash off home so miss out on the coffee and cake. Instead it is shopping in Preston. I am soon parted from this months wages by 'neccessities' for my daughters return to university. The contrast between the two parts of my day are not lost on me.
Russell
Planned to have a good run this morning and get some climb in. Fortunately DW texts me with an invite to Fairfield Horseshoe, Rydal at 8.30am. I am in the middle of the game with no name at my brother in laws 50th birthday party so my reply is not too clear. Some red wine had been consumed and more was to follow!
So dragging myself out of bed at 7.50am was hard but needed to be done. Who knows how long I would have stayed there without the motivation of a brisk 9 miles and some 3000+ feet of climbing. A quick breakfast and assuming we will be going at a good pace I throw minimal kit together. I question whether I should be driving at all this morning but don't feel too bad after the juice and cereal.
Arriving at Rydal I find a few others have come along and this makes it a good sociable run. The climbs up Nab Scar and Heron Pike go on longer than expected, but they always do. I decide this is a good thing and ideal preparation for Ben Nevis next week. A cool breeze picks up so I put on my jacket and decide it is best o keep moving. After the summit of Fairfield the wind is behind and the going good.
The views are great and we take time to admire them. Spotting lines and checkpoints for the up coming Ian Hodgson Relay. Then it is down. One of my favourite pieces of fell running in the Lakes. The Fairfield race probably has the worst climb and the best descent going (only my opinion). Things warm up so it is off with the jacket and enjoy the feeling of moving over the short grass at the perfect angle to stride out and just let it happen.
I have to dash off home so miss out on the coffee and cake. Instead it is shopping in Preston. I am soon parted from this months wages by 'neccessities' for my daughters return to university. The contrast between the two parts of my day are not lost on me.
Russell
Thursday, 25 August 2011
Shipman Knotts Fell Race
23rd August 2011
Last year after a couple of years to get my act together I organised the Shipman Knotts fell race. Designed to be a low key basic traditional type of race. i.e. Just turn up, run, cup of tea, not too much red tape as it were.
Although only 23 runners turned up it was deemed a success so I took the plunge and put it in the FRA calendar for this year.
After a minimum of effort on my part everything seemed to be in place. DR was despatched to the summit. DW to the car park (sorry), Ali and Moira to the gates. I sat with EM awaiting entries. After a few nervous minutes (was anyone coming?) the runners started to appear and soon we had 43 willing souls and I made my way to the start. Brief instructions issued and it was go!
I organise the finish team. EM on numbers, me on the times and hopefully DW could work on the results at the same time and save a on a lot of work that would normally be done after everyone had finished.
The system seems to work well and soon we are drinking tea and organising the prize giving. The setting on the terrace at Maggs Howe is fantastic.
I don't like standing up and talking in front of a crowd but tell myself that these are all like minded people and will understand my nervousness. It was good to see the surprised faces as people received unexpected prizes.
Thank you to the runners. Those who donated prizes. Christine at Maggs Howe but most of all to the volunteers who marshalled. Without whom there would be no race.
£121 raised for Kentmere Institute.
Russell
Last year after a couple of years to get my act together I organised the Shipman Knotts fell race. Designed to be a low key basic traditional type of race. i.e. Just turn up, run, cup of tea, not too much red tape as it were.
Although only 23 runners turned up it was deemed a success so I took the plunge and put it in the FRA calendar for this year.
After a minimum of effort on my part everything seemed to be in place. DR was despatched to the summit. DW to the car park (sorry), Ali and Moira to the gates. I sat with EM awaiting entries. After a few nervous minutes (was anyone coming?) the runners started to appear and soon we had 43 willing souls and I made my way to the start. Brief instructions issued and it was go!
I organise the finish team. EM on numbers, me on the times and hopefully DW could work on the results at the same time and save a on a lot of work that would normally be done after everyone had finished.
The system seems to work well and soon we are drinking tea and organising the prize giving. The setting on the terrace at Maggs Howe is fantastic.
I don't like standing up and talking in front of a crowd but tell myself that these are all like minded people and will understand my nervousness. It was good to see the surprised faces as people received unexpected prizes.
Thank you to the runners. Those who donated prizes. Christine at Maggs Howe but most of all to the volunteers who marshalled. Without whom there would be no race.
£121 raised for Kentmere Institute.
Russell
Sunday, 14 August 2011
Five of the best part 2
Beinn na Caillich
Number 4 in the best 5 runs ever.
September 2010
Having been invited to a friends wedding on Skye we (wife and I) decide to make it a long weekend. We must have been the luckiest people ever as the weather was perfect for 3 days. After the wedding on Saturday we headed to Elgol on Sunday after which I had a few hours to spare. Our B&B was at Old Corry so a trip up Beinn na Caillich seemed almost compulsory.
Taking our landlords advice I did not head straight for the summit as might seem normal but went into Coire Fearchair and onto the North East ridge. A good choice. The direct route is covered in shattered boulders and very tough going. I was however very soon aware of how isolated I was despite being only a mile or so from the B&B. A boulder I stood on rolled over and gave me a nasty scratch. Not expected back for 3 or more hours I would have had a long wait for help with a broken leg.
The ridge was steep but with the frequent stops to take in the views it was worth it. However reaching the summit was even better giving a distant view if the Cuillin Ridge.
There was a cool breeze so keeping moving was essential. And after taking these photos my phone ran out of battery. More alone now! The run to Beinn Dearg Mhor was pure pleasure and more great views. Stop for biscuit. I had read about the descent to Bealach Coire Sgreamhach so set of down with some caution. Obviously the authors of those articles do not appreciate the finer points of scree running. I was brilliant!! On to Beinn Dearg Bheag. Then follow the ridge east to Coire Beithe. The running became very technical. A rocky twisting path with intermittent bouldery bits and bog. A twisted ankle here would not be good. Soon down into the heather and bilberry covered lower slopes the path disappeared and intermittent trods led me to Coire-chat-achan. The B&B and a hot shower.
This was special because there is nothing like a solo run on new ground. And I didn't see another soul. It holds the concentration to the exclusion of all else and makes you very aware of your frailties.
If you head to Skye don't just go for the Cuillin. You will be missing out.
Russell
Number 4 in the best 5 runs ever.
September 2010
Having been invited to a friends wedding on Skye we (wife and I) decide to make it a long weekend. We must have been the luckiest people ever as the weather was perfect for 3 days. After the wedding on Saturday we headed to Elgol on Sunday after which I had a few hours to spare. Our B&B was at Old Corry so a trip up Beinn na Caillich seemed almost compulsory.
Taking our landlords advice I did not head straight for the summit as might seem normal but went into Coire Fearchair and onto the North East ridge. A good choice. The direct route is covered in shattered boulders and very tough going. I was however very soon aware of how isolated I was despite being only a mile or so from the B&B. A boulder I stood on rolled over and gave me a nasty scratch. Not expected back for 3 or more hours I would have had a long wait for help with a broken leg.
The ridge was steep but with the frequent stops to take in the views it was worth it. However reaching the summit was even better giving a distant view if the Cuillin Ridge.
Here I am.
This was special because there is nothing like a solo run on new ground. And I didn't see another soul. It holds the concentration to the exclusion of all else and makes you very aware of your frailties.
If you head to Skye don't just go for the Cuillin. You will be missing out.
Russell
Tuesday, 2 August 2011
Farleton Knott
31st July 2011
Well, I put this in the club championship because I hadn't done it before and fancied it. That was the only reason I was on the start line. It was too hot, I felt tired, heavy legged and my hay fever had really picked up nicely in the week.
The long run out and round to the top should be all runnable but I had to walk the short steep sections. There was little respite along the main path before the descent. The scree run down is great but then it is an immediate turn and back to the top. This was a big effort. My legs had nothing. There was a gap behind me and the runners ahead were pulling away. I could just go steady and finish.
But oddly I found myself catching up on the long return run to the finish. The racing spirit took over and I was determined to pass somebody before the line. This I managed. Earning myself an ice cream!
Mondays steady hour run was a struggle at first but I got into it after half an hour and the ride to work on Tuesday felt quite good. Light at the end of the tunnel.
DW did the 100 mile Ultra Tour of the Lake District at the weekend. Should I be inspired?
Watch this space.
Russell
Well, I put this in the club championship because I hadn't done it before and fancied it. That was the only reason I was on the start line. It was too hot, I felt tired, heavy legged and my hay fever had really picked up nicely in the week.
The long run out and round to the top should be all runnable but I had to walk the short steep sections. There was little respite along the main path before the descent. The scree run down is great but then it is an immediate turn and back to the top. This was a big effort. My legs had nothing. There was a gap behind me and the runners ahead were pulling away. I could just go steady and finish.
But oddly I found myself catching up on the long return run to the finish. The racing spirit took over and I was determined to pass somebody before the line. This I managed. Earning myself an ice cream!
Mondays steady hour run was a struggle at first but I got into it after half an hour and the ride to work on Tuesday felt quite good. Light at the end of the tunnel.
DW did the 100 mile Ultra Tour of the Lake District at the weekend. Should I be inspired?
Watch this space.
Russell
Monday, 25 July 2011
Kentmere Race Route
24th July 2011
Not been out for a week so needed a steady run. Chatting to DW at the Hawkshead Brewery Beer Festival we decide to head for Fairfield the next day. But change our minds as there could be a lot of traffic. Kentmere is the new venue. Amazingly on this perfect almost cloudless warm summers day we find a parking place and are and off up the Garburn track surprisingly quickly. I feel terrible. My achilles are incredibly tight and legs feel heavy. I am glad that DW wants to walk the uphills and jog the rest.
We take our time, take in the views and discus the route options of last years Mountain Trial which was based in Kentmere in 2010. The race route is very familiar and I am glad we can take the time to enjoy it. So often it is a bad weather option. On Kentmere Pike the Red Arrows give us our personal aerobatic display. I assume it was for us and not the thousands at the Windermere Air Show. Finally on the descent I get to stretch my legs but the run in brings back a hint of an old injury and a reminder to keep up the stretching exercises I have neglected over the past few weeks.
Just over 2 and a half hours. Take out the stops to admire the view etc and that would not be a bad race time.
But still a feeling I need to train more.
Russell
Not been out for a week so needed a steady run. Chatting to DW at the Hawkshead Brewery Beer Festival we decide to head for Fairfield the next day. But change our minds as there could be a lot of traffic. Kentmere is the new venue. Amazingly on this perfect almost cloudless warm summers day we find a parking place and are and off up the Garburn track surprisingly quickly. I feel terrible. My achilles are incredibly tight and legs feel heavy. I am glad that DW wants to walk the uphills and jog the rest.
We take our time, take in the views and discus the route options of last years Mountain Trial which was based in Kentmere in 2010. The race route is very familiar and I am glad we can take the time to enjoy it. So often it is a bad weather option. On Kentmere Pike the Red Arrows give us our personal aerobatic display. I assume it was for us and not the thousands at the Windermere Air Show. Finally on the descent I get to stretch my legs but the run in brings back a hint of an old injury and a reminder to keep up the stretching exercises I have neglected over the past few weeks.
Just over 2 and a half hours. Take out the stops to admire the view etc and that would not be a bad race time.
But still a feeling I need to train more.
Russell
Monday, 18 July 2011
Robin's BGR
16th July 2011
Robins BG
8 O’clock Saturday night and I am driving through Keswick, cosy and warm with the heater blowing and ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ keeping me mellow. Intermittent showers have been the order of the day but now the cloud is lifting and the views are very fine indeed. I feel good. This was not the case at 8 O’clock this morning.
I awoke to the sound of heavy rain and a quick peek through the curtains revealed low cloud, by low I mean down to the roof tops. Checking the phone a text from DW lets me know Robin had left Dunmail at 7.36am well up on schedule and going strong. Decision time. I have little enthusiasm. A call to DW and he tells me the weather in Keswick is much better so I throw some gear together. Then I remember that it is the anniversary of my BG. Only 11 years ago. So at 10am I am on my way to Honister. After all what else would I be doing today? Drinking tea, eating biscuits and watching the golf! And I like golf.
Stuck behind 4 coaches and idiots doing 20mph down Borrowdale I arrive OK. I need to be at Wasdale for 1pm. The run over via Beck Head is enjoyable and I chat aloud to myself. Something I only do when I am on my own by the way. Descending Gavel Neese I emerge from the cloud to a fantastic view. The flanks of Lingmell were bright emerald green and the streams swollen by the rain are bubbling pure white threads dancing between the bracken.
I arrive in good time and am offered tea and cakes as we await Robin. He is later than expected but finally we spot him and his pacers descending. They are slow and even stop for a while, something clearly wrong. Knee trouble. After treatment, food and a change of shoes he decides to carry on. At 2.33pm we are off up Yewbarrow.
The pace is strong. 42 minutes. I can barley keep up. But leaving the summit the problems return. Descent to Dore Head is slow to start but then as we contour more the pace picks up. I am once again dropped as DW and Robin climb into the mist on Red Pike. Nothing to do but push on as best I can. Thinking I might have to miss Steeple and meet them in the way to Pillar I am surprised to catch up just after the summit. Descending now a real problem but the overall pace is still good.
However coming off Scoat Fell things get much worse. Several stops and attempts to support the knee joint using a Buff don’t work and now the climbing is slow going. After Pillar and clearly in pain Robin decides it is best to call it a day and make our way by the easiest route to Honister. I run on ahead to let everyone know. The fells begin to clear and the view first down Ennerdale and then to Buttermere are excellent; I arrive just after 7pm. A party of five head up to meat Robin and DW to give moral support. I am cold and wet so need to change clothes and get warm. No need for me to hang around so I set off home.
A day I was not looking forward to, and in the end not a successful one, but I enjoyed it all the same and felt happy with myself. It is strange that sometimes days of bad weather and problems can end up feeling like the best days when things improve and you are back down warm and fed.
Russell
Sunday, 10 July 2011
Reston Scar Scamper
6th July 2011
My local race and also in the club championship. My legs are still suffering from the Saunders but I'll just have to see how it goes. A big club turnout is good, but not necessarily for those wanting points.
After a steady start I find a bit of pace and gain a few places. The first descent is very slippy and I gain on a small group. But then it is the narrow section and no passing. I tuck in for the last climb to the summit and pass a couple more just before the top. I know I will be slow on the final road section so I give a big effort and pass about eight on the grassy descent. Sure enough I lose three places on the run in. No results yet but I think only a minute slower than last year. Reasonably pleased given the weekend before.
Russell
My local race and also in the club championship. My legs are still suffering from the Saunders but I'll just have to see how it goes. A big club turnout is good, but not necessarily for those wanting points.
After a steady start I find a bit of pace and gain a few places. The first descent is very slippy and I gain on a small group. But then it is the narrow section and no passing. I tuck in for the last climb to the summit and pass a couple more just before the top. I know I will be slow on the final road section so I give a big effort and pass about eight on the grassy descent. Sure enough I lose three places on the run in. No results yet but I think only a minute slower than last year. Reasonably pleased given the weekend before.
Russell
Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon
2nd and 3rd July 2011
Unlike the LAMM I am going into some detail on this one. it deserves it!!
Chapel Stile Langdale was the start venue. We had a late start time of 9.54am. This suited us fine.
I am not going to go into too much criticism of the event but there are one or two points later that I will comment on.
Day 1
The start was a little congested and perhaps some would say held up teams. Everyone started up the same trod where it was hard to pass. Not too long but enough to niggle. It didn't bother me as I just wanted to concentrate on getting the first control right. We perhaps overshot a little but were quickly on course and happy.
There were plenty of route choices as we worked our way around Easdale, The Langdales and Langstrath. Taking in some familiar ground from the Old County Tops and Borrowdale race routes. We were on our own for a big part of this section which made me question our judgement for a while but suddenly there were several teams ahead and our choice proved a good one. A steep climb and contour past Ullscarf lead us to the run in to mid camp at Steel End Farm. The last proper control at a sheepfold was in a great place but left a route choice to the finish. We opted for the more direct less climbing option and ended up inadvertently crossing a boundary. Many teams did the same. 6 hours and 14 seconds. A good day. We were second and in the chasing start. All be it 34 minutes behind the leaders.
Day 2
With the first checkpoint on Steel Fell it was straight into a climb. Never a good thing on a Sunday morning after a bad nights sleep in a small tent. Then it was decision time again. Down and up or around to the next control on Gibson Knott. Looking at the the climb it didn't seem too steep or long so it was straight for it. After some scree it was into the bracken and then a across Green Burn bog. Up to my knees twice, but managed to extricate myself without losing a shoe.
We found the kite on the second knoll. The heat of the day was starting to make itself felt and we had more choices to make. Spotting an intermittent path marked on the map we chose down and up again to control 3 but this would at least be good underfoot conditions, after the steep bracken descent of course. Finding the location OK we then went straight line via Bright Beck to control 4 just down from stake Pass. Choices again but this time I persuade DW to take the high line and not the up and down. I think it worked well but even the short climb to the control was tough for me.
With the finish in sight it was getting serious. We still had a couple of climbs to do and it was proper hot now. I had been drinking enough but had struggled to eat all day. I force down a gel and hope it will help. Too little too late perhaps. DW forges ahead but gets a good (very steep) line to the next control. I try just to keep going. The last few controls are on Limgmoor after the final short climb. We find them OK but the location of one reentrant is not obvious. After the last control we are into the final run in. I tell myself to keep going as minutes lost here can be vital. Setting off OK I am soon reduced to a walk and even stop once almost involuntarily. After a little dizzy spell I force down some jelly babies and fingers tingling somehow keep going to the finish.
Amazingly we are still in second place so have to go through a kit check. I produce bits of gear in between bouts of cramp. OK. We eat and rink and awarded 2nd prize. However a late starter demotes us to 3rd after we have gone. I can only be pleased considering my pace in the second half of the day.
Not sure how much the effects of the heat, the LAMM, Dockray Great Dodd race, hay fever and lack of sleep had on my performance. But I'm not making excuses. Honest!
Once again, a great weekend, great weather and great company. What more?
Russell
Unlike the LAMM I am going into some detail on this one. it deserves it!!
Chapel Stile Langdale was the start venue. We had a late start time of 9.54am. This suited us fine.
I am not going to go into too much criticism of the event but there are one or two points later that I will comment on.
Day 1
The start was a little congested and perhaps some would say held up teams. Everyone started up the same trod where it was hard to pass. Not too long but enough to niggle. It didn't bother me as I just wanted to concentrate on getting the first control right. We perhaps overshot a little but were quickly on course and happy.
There were plenty of route choices as we worked our way around Easdale, The Langdales and Langstrath. Taking in some familiar ground from the Old County Tops and Borrowdale race routes. We were on our own for a big part of this section which made me question our judgement for a while but suddenly there were several teams ahead and our choice proved a good one. A steep climb and contour past Ullscarf lead us to the run in to mid camp at Steel End Farm. The last proper control at a sheepfold was in a great place but left a route choice to the finish. We opted for the more direct less climbing option and ended up inadvertently crossing a boundary. Many teams did the same. 6 hours and 14 seconds. A good day. We were second and in the chasing start. All be it 34 minutes behind the leaders.
Day 2
With the first checkpoint on Steel Fell it was straight into a climb. Never a good thing on a Sunday morning after a bad nights sleep in a small tent. Then it was decision time again. Down and up or around to the next control on Gibson Knott. Looking at the the climb it didn't seem too steep or long so it was straight for it. After some scree it was into the bracken and then a across Green Burn bog. Up to my knees twice, but managed to extricate myself without losing a shoe.
We found the kite on the second knoll. The heat of the day was starting to make itself felt and we had more choices to make. Spotting an intermittent path marked on the map we chose down and up again to control 3 but this would at least be good underfoot conditions, after the steep bracken descent of course. Finding the location OK we then went straight line via Bright Beck to control 4 just down from stake Pass. Choices again but this time I persuade DW to take the high line and not the up and down. I think it worked well but even the short climb to the control was tough for me.
With the finish in sight it was getting serious. We still had a couple of climbs to do and it was proper hot now. I had been drinking enough but had struggled to eat all day. I force down a gel and hope it will help. Too little too late perhaps. DW forges ahead but gets a good (very steep) line to the next control. I try just to keep going. The last few controls are on Limgmoor after the final short climb. We find them OK but the location of one reentrant is not obvious. After the last control we are into the final run in. I tell myself to keep going as minutes lost here can be vital. Setting off OK I am soon reduced to a walk and even stop once almost involuntarily. After a little dizzy spell I force down some jelly babies and fingers tingling somehow keep going to the finish.
Amazingly we are still in second place so have to go through a kit check. I produce bits of gear in between bouts of cramp. OK. We eat and rink and awarded 2nd prize. However a late starter demotes us to 3rd after we have gone. I can only be pleased considering my pace in the second half of the day.
Not sure how much the effects of the heat, the LAMM, Dockray Great Dodd race, hay fever and lack of sleep had on my performance. But I'm not making excuses. Honest!
Once again, a great weekend, great weather and great company. What more?
Russell
Monday, 4 July 2011
Dockray Geat Dodd
Wednesday 29th June
Just want to say what a great mid week race this is. Last run approx 12 years ago. That day was thick mist and a bit of a learning experience. This year was pure pleasure. Perfect conditions, no need to get the map out. Worst part was the road at the start. I can only recommend it but hope it stays low key. It must be the only race where most of the field go the wrong way!! But I'm not going to let you in on the secret.
Russell
Just want to say what a great mid week race this is. Last run approx 12 years ago. That day was thick mist and a bit of a learning experience. This year was pure pleasure. Perfect conditions, no need to get the map out. Worst part was the road at the start. I can only recommend it but hope it stays low key. It must be the only race where most of the field go the wrong way!! But I'm not going to let you in on the secret.
Russell
Sunday, 26 June 2011
LAMM 2011
11th and 12th June 2011
Another LAMM has come and gone and what a great weekend it was. Probably the best area I have done and a superb mid camp. I am not going into detail about the navigation and control sites as this year all were good and easily located if you were in the correct place. Not always the case in past years. We climbed 3 Munro's each with a control on the summit, a bit unusual for the B course. But that was the problem. I wasn't climbing well and it cost us time. Some good route choices made up for this somewhat but a bit of dithering also cost us a couple of places. I think 5 or 6 minutes covered 5 places in the end. Lesson learned, make good choices and keep going. You never know what other teams are doing and they are probably making as many errors as you. So 15th in the end but it could have been better. Thanks to my patient partner. Great weather, good routes and fine company. What more can you ask for?
Russell
Another LAMM has come and gone and what a great weekend it was. Probably the best area I have done and a superb mid camp. I am not going into detail about the navigation and control sites as this year all were good and easily located if you were in the correct place. Not always the case in past years. We climbed 3 Munro's each with a control on the summit, a bit unusual for the B course. But that was the problem. I wasn't climbing well and it cost us time. Some good route choices made up for this somewhat but a bit of dithering also cost us a couple of places. I think 5 or 6 minutes covered 5 places in the end. Lesson learned, make good choices and keep going. You never know what other teams are doing and they are probably making as many errors as you. So 15th in the end but it could have been better. Thanks to my patient partner. Great weather, good routes and fine company. What more can you ask for?
Russell
Thursday, 9 June 2011
5 Of The Best. Part 1
Top 5 days on the Fell.
This is part 1 of my top 5 best days out on the hills and fells so far. I have had many memorable days with many people. Now it is time to record some of them.
Highlander Mountain Marathon 2009 day 2.
Event centre at Cannich. Day 1 was a good day, but with a slightly poor route choice at the start and possibly 10 more points available had we gone for it. It was however one of our first ventures into the world of the Score Class. I felt happy with our performance.
Day 2 did not start well. We missed the first control, 10 points, due to exuberance and poor map reading. When we discovered our errors it was to late to back track (the advantage of the score class) so pushed on to the next control and then up a very steep and long climb. The legs definately feeling the day before. After reaching the next control the hills opened up before us and the sun was shining. The day was warming up. There had been a frost overnight and my socks and shoes, left under the fly sheet, had frozen.
2 more controls and then it was crunch time. Which way to go for the most points? And be sure we were back within the time limit. We opted for a route over several small summits with controls and a possible out and back if enough time before heading to the finish. This was fantastic. We were on our own. No one was following and no one in front, I felt good. I dont think we saw another team for quite some time.
Navigation was straighforward in the perfect visibility. We were all to soon at the crucial point. We could not decide if we could make the out and back .We decide to set of for the control and see if we were any where near in 10 minutes. If not, turn back and hopefully pick up an extra control on the run in.
Soon realising it was not on we turned and plotted out route to the finish. I began to flag a little but knew it would soon be over. Eat. After the next control it was decision time again. Go for one more or head back? On the map it looked OK and not too far so we went for it. It was further than expected and the run back in the heat, yes heat, of April in the highlands was tough. Time got tight and there was nothing for it but to run. Even if it was road for the last half mile.
We made it with two minutes to spare. In the end the missed control and 10 points cost us 3rd place and a prize but it didn't matter. Most teams had taken a different route and got a few more points. I was glad we took the route we did. This was everything a day competing should be. Mistakes, good running. perfect weather, decisions to be made, going for it, emotional highs and lows, doing your own thing and above all great company.
Russell
This is part 1 of my top 5 best days out on the hills and fells so far. I have had many memorable days with many people. Now it is time to record some of them.
Highlander Mountain Marathon 2009 day 2.
Event centre at Cannich. Day 1 was a good day, but with a slightly poor route choice at the start and possibly 10 more points available had we gone for it. It was however one of our first ventures into the world of the Score Class. I felt happy with our performance.
Day 2 did not start well. We missed the first control, 10 points, due to exuberance and poor map reading. When we discovered our errors it was to late to back track (the advantage of the score class) so pushed on to the next control and then up a very steep and long climb. The legs definately feeling the day before. After reaching the next control the hills opened up before us and the sun was shining. The day was warming up. There had been a frost overnight and my socks and shoes, left under the fly sheet, had frozen.
2 more controls and then it was crunch time. Which way to go for the most points? And be sure we were back within the time limit. We opted for a route over several small summits with controls and a possible out and back if enough time before heading to the finish. This was fantastic. We were on our own. No one was following and no one in front, I felt good. I dont think we saw another team for quite some time.
Navigation was straighforward in the perfect visibility. We were all to soon at the crucial point. We could not decide if we could make the out and back .We decide to set of for the control and see if we were any where near in 10 minutes. If not, turn back and hopefully pick up an extra control on the run in.
Soon realising it was not on we turned and plotted out route to the finish. I began to flag a little but knew it would soon be over. Eat. After the next control it was decision time again. Go for one more or head back? On the map it looked OK and not too far so we went for it. It was further than expected and the run back in the heat, yes heat, of April in the highlands was tough. Time got tight and there was nothing for it but to run. Even if it was road for the last half mile.
We made it with two minutes to spare. In the end the missed control and 10 points cost us 3rd place and a prize but it didn't matter. Most teams had taken a different route and got a few more points. I was glad we took the route we did. This was everything a day competing should be. Mistakes, good running. perfect weather, decisions to be made, going for it, emotional highs and lows, doing your own thing and above all great company.
Russell
Sunday, 5 June 2011
Coniston Gullies
5th June 2011
With many runners from the club heading of to Duddon or Ennerdale I go for the opposote end of the spectrum. Coniston Gullies. It may be short but packs a big punch. A must do. One for the bucket list.
Once out of the field you are straight into the 900' gully climb. It's steep and unrelanting. Hard to pass anyone as going off the line is awkward. A short running section accross the top and it's back down another gully. This is very steep. Scree, rocks and some grass. A descent that ensures the concentration. Not for the feint harted. Commitment gets it's reward. Mine was to pass several Helm vests.
The race is usually won in around 15 mins. Me about 20. Am too old to care about times and cannot be bothered to start the stopwatch. I will of course be eager to see the results and analise them for a while.
A scenic drive took us to Yew Tree Barn. Tea and Rarebit with bacon ar The Hat Trick Cafe. Excellent.
Russell
With many runners from the club heading of to Duddon or Ennerdale I go for the opposote end of the spectrum. Coniston Gullies. It may be short but packs a big punch. A must do. One for the bucket list.
Once out of the field you are straight into the 900' gully climb. It's steep and unrelanting. Hard to pass anyone as going off the line is awkward. A short running section accross the top and it's back down another gully. This is very steep. Scree, rocks and some grass. A descent that ensures the concentration. Not for the feint harted. Commitment gets it's reward. Mine was to pass several Helm vests.
The race is usually won in around 15 mins. Me about 20. Am too old to care about times and cannot be bothered to start the stopwatch. I will of course be eager to see the results and analise them for a while.
A scenic drive took us to Yew Tree Barn. Tea and Rarebit with bacon ar The Hat Trick Cafe. Excellent.
Russell
Friday, 3 June 2011
Bowfell
Sunday 29th May 2011
Needed a good but not too long a run this weekend to help recover from the OCT. A few friends were doing part of leg 3 of the BG so I tagged along. We started in Langdale and headed for Rossett Gill. A familiar climb. My plan was to turn back at some point as I had to be home and ready to go out by noon.
We were soon up to the col and onto the BG route proper. Acsending into the mist it got colder and wetter. But the company was good and the chatting aided the climb. At the summit on Bowfell I decided that continuing to Esk Pike and returning back down the gill was not my best option and left the group to descend via 3 Tarns and The Band. Rocky at first but then grassy I dropped out of the mist and headed down.
I thought of the others and their route to Scafell. Easy to go astray up there. Hope they found Ill Crag OK.
Down quicker than I thought and I pass a lot of folk on their way up. Met a guy who had set of at 5am to do the Crinkles. He said it rained the whole way. At the car I realise I have enough time to call in on a friend at Chapel Stile. Been meaning to do this for some time.
Make it home in time and after a quick change Cheryl and I head back to Ambleside. Park at Pelter Bridge. A leisurely walk around Rydal Water. Now warm and sunny. Cream Tea at Rydal Hall.
A good day.
Russell
Needed a good but not too long a run this weekend to help recover from the OCT. A few friends were doing part of leg 3 of the BG so I tagged along. We started in Langdale and headed for Rossett Gill. A familiar climb. My plan was to turn back at some point as I had to be home and ready to go out by noon.
We were soon up to the col and onto the BG route proper. Acsending into the mist it got colder and wetter. But the company was good and the chatting aided the climb. At the summit on Bowfell I decided that continuing to Esk Pike and returning back down the gill was not my best option and left the group to descend via 3 Tarns and The Band. Rocky at first but then grassy I dropped out of the mist and headed down.
I thought of the others and their route to Scafell. Easy to go astray up there. Hope they found Ill Crag OK.
Down quicker than I thought and I pass a lot of folk on their way up. Met a guy who had set of at 5am to do the Crinkles. He said it rained the whole way. At the car I realise I have enough time to call in on a friend at Chapel Stile. Been meaning to do this for some time.
Make it home in time and after a quick change Cheryl and I head back to Ambleside. Park at Pelter Bridge. A leisurely walk around Rydal Water. Now warm and sunny. Cream Tea at Rydal Hall.
A good day.
Russell
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