Donkarlo's Fell Running Blog

Something Different and more to come

2011-09-22T22:56:00.001+01:00

I will get round to doing a full write up of this event. For the moment it was the annual Pathfinder March in Cambridgeshire on the 25th June - 46 miles but flat compared to what I am used to so a different challenge, walked this with some friends I know through work but am tempted to return for a run attempt.

Better Late than Never

2011-09-22T22:49:00.000+01:00

Sam kindly brought round his SD card with the OMM photos from 2010 this week whilst we were planning for the RAB MM this weekend.

So should have something new to write up following this weekend

Bicycling

2011-04-13T17:02:00.001+01:00

Hello all,

Well I am still here just don't seem to have had much time to post recently, running is going okay !

I changed jobs last year and my routine and world went a bit topsy turvy! I now regularly spend time in different offices and away during the week and I have to look smart and presentable at work. Due to the changes it has taken me a while to get into a new routine.

I am now trying to run in the mornings, this does mean an early start but sets me up well for the day, then on Tuesdays and Wednesdays I run in the evening or go out on the bike. I have a few ideas for fitting training around my new life, my office in Preston is within running distance (10 miles ish) but I wouldn't want to do that twice a day, I am not a Kenyan! My Warton office is a good distance for cycling (20 miles ish each way) but this then brings another dilemma and the reason behind my post.

I am now a lap top user, I need to transport this and keep it dry during a commute to work, I also need to transport a shirt, trousers & shoes that will still look presentable when I get to work. I was trying to find a shower but I have managed that now, so questions are......

1) Panniers or Rucksack ?

2) Which ones/one ?

3) Running options with a lap top?

4) Anything else of use or ideas ?

Any advice gratefully received

I need to get fit again, I am ticking over but I'm not where I want to be and I'm carrying a bit (i.e.alot) of lard.

I have pencilled in the 29th April to have a run round the Yorkshire Three Peaks with a friend from work. I think this is the day of the Royal Wedding so hopefully it will be quiet, as I have as much interest in the wedding as I do in stamp collecting! So hopefully I'll have something to report on the Blog, it's looking a bit quiet at the moment. I also have quite a few holidays left for the year as well so I need to do some planning, I still fancy the Coast to Coast, Ribble Way, etc. as long distance challenges and I still fancy cycling LEJOG but we'll have to see.

Hope everyone's running is going well, I'll hopefully post again soon.

Oh and entries are open for the OMM so watch this space.

Winter Wonderland

2010-12-21T15:22:00.000Z

Just had a wonderful run in the snow from Croston, across the moss, through Mawdesley, Rufford and to Sollom along the canal then back home along the river. Fantastic scenery along my route, this weather is magical.

I didn't wear my Garmin so not sure how far I'd expect about 10-12 miles, it was hard work through the deep snow towards the end was heavy going.

The OMM - Dartmoor

2010-11-11T11:53:00.000Z

It's taken me a bit to put this together, was feeling very worse for wear last week after the OMM. Important lesson learnt, to check water carefully from streams, especially during heavy rain causing surface run off. Or carry some puritabs or similar. I spent most of last week doing sprint sessions to the loo after managing to pick up gastroenteritis, 3 out of the 4 of us who travelled together were affected. ON a positive note though I did manage to lose 10 lbs, the best crash diet I've tried !!!

Friday - The weekend started with a packed train to Manchester, John was picking me up from Piccadilly at 9:00 to go back to his house, check the gear, familiarise ourselves with the tent and agree the plan of action. The tent is relatively simple to put up, we decided it would be easier to leave the inner tent and fly sheet fastened together in John's sack and I would carry the pegs, poles, gas and stove. I don't know if you have ever seen these pegs but they don't really look that strong, they weigh 1g each, but used in the right way and pushed right into the ground they are pretty effective.

Ben and Sam joined us and we compared sacks, mine was, by far the smallest with an 18l sack John, Ben and Sam were all using the Terra Nova Laser 20l pack, We had all managed to get everything inside our sacks and were all carrying <5kg !

After chucking all the gear in the car we hit the road, as usual the M6 was rubbish, one giant, slowly moving snake of traffic. It seemed to take an age to get to Hilton Park services, where we stocked up at M&S on munchies for lunch and for breakfast, bananas & scotch eggs, the food of champions! We eventually reached the M5 and after a final toilet stop at Exeter services we headed off to the OMM HQ at Okehampton Camp. John took us on a merry excursion through the narrow country lanes to an alleged short cut, that turned out to be a muddy track, but we made it in the end after climbing a very steep hill up to the camp (I didn't think there were any hills down here ?).

After pitching our tents we set out in search of the Up & Running shop and some food. The shop was packed, but I did manage to pick up a bargain pair of Saucony leggings for £10 (RRP £45). I decided these would be perfect for the weekend as they are tight fitting round the ankles so would not go baggy like other leggings, and hopefully keep my legs pretty warm. Dinner was Carbonara, bit of a shame that Wilfs (or Scotts) were not on site as their fare is ideal and tasty. We went and registered and picked up the dibber (I was the dibber boy), then after a couple of pints in the bar we hit the sack, alarm set for 6:00 ready for our 8:03 start.

Saturday - After getting up and having some breakfast in the car, we changed into our gear, had a final kit check, then dropped the tent, wished Ben & Sam all the best and headed off for a cup of tea before heading to the start. I was feeling slightly nervous, it was a while since I had done any serious distance carrying kit, but I hoped that my light bag and experience would prevail, I didn't expect to finish highly but I expected to finish.

http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/768/101031034020_P.jpg
http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/768/101031034023_P.jpg

I don't know how but we missed our start by two minutes ! We rushed up as they were just calling the 8:05 starters forward, we were pushed through, dibbed and handed the map, the straight line distance was quoted as 44.7km, I chose to ignore this and just concentrate on the first control location. We picked this off relatively quickly and then you know the script "Try and pick the best line across bloody awful terrain, dibbing the controls as you go". I was surprised at how undulating the ground was, the tussocks everywhere made it hard going, occasionally you would pick up a trod where you could get up a bit of momentum but these inevitably turned the wrong way and it was back to tussock bashing.

There were times when we could see plenty of other teams, snaking their way to controls, which took a bit of skill out of the navigation. It was a clear bright day with a head wind most of the day, we were moving okay but not quickly, I think the terrain was getting to us both, John put his ipod on at one point to try and find the "Zone" but I don't think it was happening for him.

Just before the penultimate control, Ben and Sam caught us up, it was good to see them and it gave us a bit of a lift, we ran all the way into camp with them, it did mean they had made up quite a bit of time on us though. Our route taken for day 1 can be seen on Route Gadget ('A' Class - John Roberts & Karl Taylor) It was a long hard day and we were all tired, we pitched the tents, grabbed some water in the sandwich bag and then dived in the tent to sort ourselves out. The results had us 62nd out of 89 starters, several teams appeared to have dropped out during the day and there were 79 teams going into the second day.

The tent was cosy indeed, it is definitely not possible for you both to do something, like getting changed, at the same time, so we took it in turns to sort gear, change clothes etc. Once we were sorted and dry/warm we got the stove going, dinner was a doddle to cook as planned, I had also slipped a small hip flask of brandy in my bag so we had brandy custard and ginger sponge, gourmet!! John had brought a chocolate protein shake to share so we warmed that up to help with the overnight recovery.

The fun then started when it came time to start blowing up the balloons for the balloon beds, with the limited room, cramp and general knackered ness this was entertaining. It took us about an hour to get both beds done, all we could hear from Ben and Sam's tent was popping balloons!! but eventually we had managed it. It was probably about 19:00 when we went to bed, so, with the clocks going back an hour it made it 18:00, 12hrs sleep ahead! We topped and tailed and managed to find a comfortable, not too contorted, position to sleep, I was boiling and had to take my hat off and unzip my tops to feel comfortable, the balloon bed was like luxury, so comfortable. John was okay till he turned on his side, his bag only has down on the top, when he felt a bit of cold. Sleep was okay, intermittent with the noise of the wind and rain lashing against the tent, but I felt pretty refreshed in the morning.

Sunday - We were woken by the 6:00 wake up call for the chasing starts, It was a bit of a struggle to sit up, but taking it in turns gain we sorted our stuff out and got some breakfast on the go. I could feel my calves were stiff when I walked across to the toilet, day 2 was going to be tough, the weather was looking like it was going to test us.

We managed to make the start early this time, we dibbed and grabbed our map, the straight line distance was 31.6km, a shorter, but no less difficult day. I spotted river crossings and some contours very close together between two of the later check points, something to look forward to !

The first couple of controls were okay, a bit of climbing but not bad ground, the 3rd control though was "miles!" I expect this was a low point for all teams but the ground was tussocky, boggy and just energy draining, the Tor where the control was just seemed to get further away, everywhere you looked in each direction there were teams stretched out all heading in the same general direction. Eventually we reached the control, after here we had two river crossings before the next control, something that doesn't really phase me but there was a lot of water about, did I mention it was chucking it down!

http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/822/101101161926_P.jpg

http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/822/101101161945_P.jpg

The stretch after this control was tough going again, I think by this point neither of us wanted to see a tussock again. Ben and Sam caught us just before the control, we all had a quick stop to put on an extra layer, the rain and wind were having an effect, and the photographer caught a couple of great shots especially the 'thumbs up' one of Ben.

http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/800/101101100417_P.jpg

http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/800/101101101219_P.jpg
http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/800/101101101239_P.jpg
http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/800/101101101243_P.jpg

The next control was across was the steep section I had spotted earlier in the day, I had promised myself mentally that I would treat myself to a rice crispie square at the bottom of here, mind games, after dropping down to the river we linked up to cross the river as a foursome, it was pretty wide and strong but we got across OK. We could see other teams heading up stream as we started climbing, it was a steep climb but not that long, the bar worked and I felt pretty good as we dibbed the next control. Ben was limping now and struggling to run, we could maybe have made back the time deficit at this point but it wasn't the honourable thing to do, we stuck with them as we dibbed the last few controls together.

Our route taken for day 2 can be seen on Route Gadget ('A' Class - John Roberts & Karl Taylor)

We all had a bit of a John Wayne swagger coming down the road to the last control and the finish line but did manage a bit of a burst for the finishing photo. Final positions we came 60th, Sam & Ben 50th, 72 teams finished. Results

http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/792/101101023114_P.jpg
http://www.21cphotos.com/images/59/792/101101023135_P.jpg

Summary - To summarise on what was a tough weekend, Dartmoor is pretty hard terrain, quite picturesque with all the Tors, but a bugger under foot. More training would have benefited us both and perhaps provided a higher finish but, I don't think we did too bad to finish the two days. The kit was about right, I had just enough day food, plenty to eat at night and a really comfortable nights sleep. The cooking equipment could maybe be lightened by using foil trays but I do like how the mess tin can accommodate the food, protecting it. I was warm enough during the day and night and did find my windproof useful on day 1. Water sources should be checked thoroughly and peaty run off water should be avoided! I have got a full 12 months to train for the next one now, think I'm a bit off the pace for winning but definitely feel we could challenge the higher places with some decent training behind us.

I didn't take my camera but Sam has got some pictures which hopefully he'll forward to me and I can supplement this post with something nice to look at.

The OMM Final Kit List

2010-10-27T16:35:00.002+01:00

With only a few days left till the drive down south to Dartmoor for the 42nd OMM/KIMM the kit list is coming together.

Things may change at the last minute but I think this is pretty much it.

The Team - Myself & John Roberts

Class - A

Following the OMM kit list these are my choices of kit

Clothes

During the day I will be wearing my trusty Decathlon 3/4 length leggings, they are a little worse for wear, with a few holes here and there but they do the job. I have a choice of base layers dependant on conditions, but I think I'm going to go with a medium weight top with zip neck and long sleeves so I can roll them up if it gets warm and un zip the neck. Then my breathable pants underneath to stop the jingy jangling and some lightweight Bridgedale socks. Gloves are some old North Cape ones(59g) My hat is a buff, I'm taking two though so I have a dry one for the overnight camp (30g each).

For the overnight camps I then need extra full leg cover, I was going to use some Spray Way microfleece trousers (250g) but they are a bit bulky, although light, so I think I will need to go with some Helly Hanson Lifa Long Johns instead. My additional warm top is an X-cellerate fleece lined windproof (256g) that packs down really small. Then some dry socks(62g), if I need to leave the tent I have two large sandwich bags for my feet so they stay dry when I put them inside my trainers. The wet socks will go back on in the morning as the dry ones will be lighter to carry and would end up wet after 10-15 mins anyway.

Tent & Sleeping

John has invested in a Terra Nova - Laser Photon Elite (720g) it will be a considerably cosy night, at the widest point the inner tent is 87cm, the term 'spooning' has been mentioned in conversation. My sleeping bag is a Snugpak Travelpak (680g) I bought it originally for camping in Thailand so it's not exactly suited to October in Dartmoor, but I'm sure it is going to be cosy in that tent and it kept me warm enough in the barn after the storm of OMM 2008 ! I am sleeping in luxury this time as well as I have bought a balloon bed (120g). I could probably do with investing in something like a RAB top bag or similar but I'll leave that till next year.

My only concern is how much room there is in the porch of the tent for cooking if the weather is bad but I guess we'll have to take the risk.

Food & Cooking

Using my scientific "OMM Food Calculator" that I developed in 2008 I figure I have a fraction over 1.5kg of food for the two days. Providing me with 5258.7 KCal of energy, 738.7g of Carbs and 145.3 g of Protein.

During the days I'll be eating a combination of Trek, Clif, 0 and Power Bars, Rice Crispie Squares, Shot Bloks, Jelly Babies and Nakd bars, I have tried to use mainly natural energy bars with minimum additives as these tend to disagree with my stomach! I'll also be adding Nuun to my water during the day, I will just carry a 500ml bottle in a shoulder strap holder, and drink from streams.

Saturday night's food will be 200g of wholemeal cous cous with chorizo, pepperoni, sun dried tomatoes, stock cube and some spices this basically just requires hot water to cook so very easy and light on gas. I have a small Trangia mess tin the mix will go in here with the hot water, the lid goes on and after 5 mins or so it is ready to eat. This should give me plenty of carbs, protein and salt and then will be followed by Jamaica Ginger Cake and Custard, luxury!

I will take a 5l sandwich bag as a water carrier as well for drinking and cooking, we are borrowing an MSR pocket pocket (85g) as it is slightly smaller and lighter than my Coleman stove, this will be used with a 100g gas canister, together with a tin foil heat shield/wind protector, this should be pretty efficient.

Breakfast Saturday is 75g of Ready Brek made with hot chocolate, this will all be supplemented by cups of tea and warm Nuun. The food handily fits inside the mess tin together with the foil, handle, lighter and spork.

Waterproofs

My waterproofs are an old pair of Spray Way Horizon leggings(238g) it is highly unlikely I will wear them, my jacket is a Marmot Precip Ladies Large (It was cheap in the sale) (316g) depending on conditions on the day I may run in a windproof but I'm undecided.

Anything Else

I have got a Heatsheets Survival Bag(113g) this is compact and light, and if I get cold in the tent I could always put it over my sleeping bag. Emergency rations are a small tablet of Kendal Mint Cake and my adequate first aid kit is a couple of plasters, vaseline, safety pins, a small bandage/dressing and a few pain killers, plus a bit of gaffer tape round my rucksack strap, the latter can be used for repairs to coat, tent etc as well. The pencil and paper are inside the first aid kit, small pencil from Ikea, inside the bag this should be able to be used in the wet.

Torch will be my Petzl Tikka (75g) and all of this will be in a dry bag inside my inov8 Race Pro 18 (470g) with my day food in the mesh pocket at the front. I have picked up a top tip to have my food in the front of John's bag and his in mine for easy access, the only problem being that he doesn't have a pocket on the front of his bag ! Most of my day food fits in my waist pockets so I should be okay.

I really wanted a thumb compass but I'm going to leave it for now and make do this year, but having used one last in 2008 they are really easy.

Weight

This brings me in at about 4.5 - 5.0 kg so pretty happy, just wish I was a bit lighter and fitter now, I don't think we have much chance of winning I'm just looking forward to a good weekend. I think I'm going to take my camera as well, I know it's more weight, about 200g but I think it would be good to take some time and get some good pictures.

Any thoughts on kit ?

Langdale to Pillar Rock

2010-10-12T20:28:00.000+01:00

Had a great day out with Ben & John, we camped over at Great Langdale on the Friday night, John and Ben in the camper van and me in the boot of John's car, luxury! Had a good chilli, rice and chips and a couple of Old Peculiars from the ODG before retiring. The valley was looking fantastic on the drive in Friday night.

The plan was to run from Great Langdale up Rosset Ghyll, over Esk Hause and drop down to Sty Head Pass, before following the climber's traverse round Great Gable and then over Kirk Fell and from Black Sail Pass follow the traverse path to Pillar Rock. There was a memorial service scheduled for 14:00 for Dave Ridout, mentioned in a previous post, an old scouting and caving friend who died last month. The last top he had to complete in the Lake District was Pillar Rock, unfortunately he died befor he managed it. So West Lancashire Scouts Mountaineering Group were taking his ashes to the top.

So that was the loose plan run there and back.

John & Ben crossing the ford at the head of Great Langdale

Looking back into Langdale from Esk Hause

John at Angle Tarn

We were moving well and probably a bit too quick, we realised when John announced he thought the memorial was 13:00 why we were moving so fast! We took it a bit easier and just enjoyed the scenery as the sun started to burn the cloud off. By the time we got to Sty Head Pass it was warming up nicely and we were basked in sunshine on the climber's traverse.

Sty Head Pass with Wasdale in the background

We decided as we were doing well for time to "thread the needle" the scramble up behind Napes Needle, a bit hairy in fell shoes as you can see above.

Looking down into Wasdale from Napes Needle

Napes Needle

Scafell sun bathing

We had run out of water by this point so skirted round Kirk Fell to use the spring to top up our bottles, before picking up the traverse route to Pillar Rock from Black Sail Pass. We caught up the rest of the group, that had walked up from Wasdale, the memorial was thoughtful, we held a silence and a few people said some words about Dave. Then here you can see Dave being transported to the top of Pillar Rock. By this point we had started to get a bit cold as this North side of Pillar was chilly, we made our apologies and dropped down to Ennerdale.

We followed the beck to Windy Gap between Great and Green Gable before dropping down to Sty Head and following the route back we had taken in the morning. I was struggling by now and not moving as quick uphill as I would like, but I'm sure that fitness will come back as I increase the time on the hills.

Looking back into Ennerdale

A good day out and 22 miles plus about 7500ft of climbing. After making our way back to Great Langdale we grabbed a quick pint of lime and lemonade and the stopped for fish and chips in Bowness on the way home. Excellent.

Still Going.......

2010-09-16T12:53:00.000+01:00

......Had a fantastic couple of weeks in Fontainbleau, photos to follow.

The weather for the first couple of days was pretty grim to say the least, I had to stop on the drive from Dunkerque for an hour of shut eye to let the downpour subside slightly. After arriving early morning and pitching the tent, followed by some more sleep, then trying to find a shop open on a Sunday in France! we hid from it in the tent eating pate and cheese!

We completed the Circuit de 25 Bosses which I thought would translate as something grand like 25 Hills, but unfortunately after checking the dictionary it is only the 25 "Bumps!" oh well, it was good fun. The route does a lot of up and down, admittedly on small hills, and scrambling through the boulders and rocks so it's a pretty interesting outing. We did plenty of bouldering and a bit more walking, I even managed a few runs in the evenings.

One of these was slightly disastrous, to cut a long story short, I was first blocked by a lake, then a motorway and I was considering swimming across the river to get back when I did find a road in the right direction. My own fault I should have taken the map with me, I came back exhausted to a slightly panicking Gemma who had expected me back about an hour earlier!

I've been getting out in the mornings and evenings gradually increasing my mileage, and I'm getting back into the groove. I've got a few training runs planned for the OMM over a couple of days and I am now obsessing over weight, my kit as well as my own! I received my balloon bed through the post last week, and I have had the scales out weighing leggings, tops, gloves trying to keep as compact and light as possible so I can get it all in my inov8 18l sack. I'll blog with my final kit list when the final decisions have been made. My last OMM experience was 2008 and the great Borrowdale storm, I was one of those unaccounted for runners! so I'm hoping for a slightly less lively experience this time.

I am full of a cold this week which isn't helping, neither is the grim weather, but I have got out a couple of times and have some more mileage planned before the week is out.

Just trying to decide what to do with my days off for OMM training. The 15 Trigs of the Dark Peak looks like an interesting and probably similar terrain to Dartmoor? I quite fancy doing the Ribble Way over a couple of days, Longton-Gisburn the Gisburn-End, coming back on the train. There's also the Bowland 1500' s so I'll have to make my mind up, lots of inspiring stuff on Tony Wimbush's GoFar web site worth a look at.

Should have some more regular updates to the blog now so stay tuned.........

Training ......................

2010-08-03T09:30:00.002+01:00

I am back on plan I hope..........................

I now have several goals and a training plan to achieve them.

I have struggled since last year, with a niggly knee, general laziness and lack of motivation, not so sure why but I have been busy changing jobs and getting into a new routine, weekends seem to have been filled with other things and planning my training and getting out has just taken a back seat.

The other week on Bill's Ramsay reminded me though that I can still do it and I still enjoy it, so, with renewed vigour and glucosamine I am back into the groove I think. I am now running in the morning before breakfast, this fits in better and then hopefully getting a few evening sessions in with Gem as well.

We have both entered the Edinburgh Marathon in 2011, Gem really fancies doing a marathon so I said I would run with her and help with her training, this will in turn hopefully give me a bit of a chance to do some tempo/speed work to supplement my training.

I have also entered the OMM, 'A' Class with John, the last one I did was the Elite course in 2008 when the weather went completely wild and the event was cancelled (As shown on the BBC, I was on the news!) Looking forward to this and currently my training is geared up to compete well at this event, or at least beat Ben and Sam. Just need to sort out my kit now and get my weight down as much as possible including my own weight as well !

Future plans for this year/next year are to try and complete several long walk/runs, I would really like to complete a couple of long distance paths in a mountain marathon style, like the Coast to Coast, Dales Way, Ribble Way etc. and increase my endurance. With a long term goal to try and complete an ultra a month next year, culminating in the UTMB in August.

I'd like to do the Wuthering Hike (Haworth Hobble), Calderdale, Fellsman (although this is the week before the Edinburgh Marathon, no PB for me!), West Highland Way Race & the Lakeland 100, I think with a solid 12 month plan like this I can get back into the swing of regular training.

Got a couple of weeks climbing in France coming up so will try and get a bit of running in there as well, before really getting stuck into the diet and training when I get home, including giving up the beer!

Does anybody else keep getting strange comments in Chinese, by the way, on their blog ?

On a sad note, an old caving and walking friend of mine, Dave Ridout, from the scouts who taught me a lot of navigation and mountain craft skills, as well as taking me on my first caving trips, has died aged 63. He had been a scout leader for nearly 30 years in Preston and an article appeared in the LEP last week. Happy memories of exploring underground on the Karl & Karl, Dave & Dave trips will always remain with me. Thoughts go out to his family at this time.

Bill's Ramsay Round

2010-07-07T23:02:00.002+01:00

I received a request earlier in the year to support Bill Williams on his attempt at the Charlie Ramsay Round (24 Tops, 56 Miles & 28,500ft). His attempt last year, which would have seen him complete a Bob Graham, Paddy Buckley and Charlie Ramsay round within 12 months, was unfortunately thwarted by bad weather. The plan was that Bill would leave Glen Nevis Youth Hostel at midday, we would then see him for the "2nd Leg" at 20:00 at Loch Treig Dam.

Loch Treig Dam and Support Team

Ian Cookson and I travelled up on Saturday morning to the Rucksack Club 'Craigallan' Hut near Fort William. We got here around 14:00 and enjoyed some cheese on toast, cakes and plenty of cups of tea provided by Whinn Cliff (Bowland) and Jean (Bill's Wife) till it was time to make our way to Thirsit and down to the dam. It was good to meet a couple of the Bowland guys who were providing the static support, Ian Roberts and Andy Farmer and to see Ian Charters who had arrived on Friday evening. We relaxed and conversation revolved around the usual subjects till the allotted hour arrived and it was a quick dash to sort my kit out and out of the door.

We unloaded all the kit from the cars and carried it all the ten minutes from the road to the dam, once we had set ourselves up on the dam it was time to wait and watch the horizon for Bill, Will and Carwyn to appear. It was quite shocking to see the level of the loch, the water level is usually around the white tide mark you can see on the sides. Luckily there was a pretty strong wind which kept the midges away so I didn't have to wear my mosquito net hat, fashion statement though it is! Our wait was a few minutes longer than expected but we soon saw the three figure appear in the distance and they soon joined us at the dam for feeding and watering.

Bill, Will and Carwyn

Ian and I readied ourselves and as soon as Bill was ready we were off across the railway line and climbing Stob Coire Sgriodain, I was slightly concerned how I would cope with the climbing but obviously my strategy of eating cake all afternoon had succeeded and I felt quite energetic, and was almost setting the pace on a couple of occasions! It was about half way up the climb that the rain started and we were forced to put our waterproofs on, there was not much visibility on the tops and to be honest, not really knowing the route apart from a look at the map the week before, I just followed, occasionally handing Bill food and water as we progressed.

Stob Coire Sgriodain

We reached the top of Stob Coire Sgriodain and continued on to reach the summit of Chno Dearg before the long downhill to the valley bottom and onto the climb up Beinn na Lap, it is a long way after the initial steep climb to the summit, in fact we almost missed it! It is then another long downhill section followed by a long section of track/path, a river crossing and then a really leg sapping boggy section. I needed a gel to revive my legs after this and to keep up with the pace along the track and down to the next support point and the end of our leg.

After a bit of cake, and some hot chocolate we saw Bill off with Ian Charters and Bob Wightman and then walked out with Ian and Andy for about an hour and a half back to the car park. We got back to the bunk house for just before five and after a quick bacon and egg butty and a cup of tea we crawled off for a sleep.

Unfortunately the weather deteriorated after we left Bill and he eventually had to cut the round short due to high winds. Hopefully he'll have better luck next time. A great night, although very wet, Scotland is very remote and wild and the only signs of life we saw in six hours were a couple of deer, the Ramsay Round is definitely a serious undertaking and big respect to Bill for a superb effort.

Start of the leg shown by the Green Line

2nd Half of the Leg

Leg Profile

Walk out

11 Fell Tops and 15 miles

2010-05-21T07:08:00.000+01:00

Earlier in the year I had purchased tickets to go and see the Legends of Fell Running talk in Keswick at the Theatre by the Lake, Ali and myself decided we may as well make a day of it so we had booked the day off work and headed up early to Keswick with Steve Fish.

We parked the car at Whinlatter and made our way up Grizedale Pike, the sun was out but it was fairly overcast and there was plenty of cloud at summit level, a theme that would continue throughout the day. I felt ten times better than Friday night, maybe due to the slightly slower pace, but I felt like I had different legs!

After the steep drag up Grizedale Pike we had soon bagged our first summit of the day, the conditions are visible here, Steve at the summit.

I had roughly planned a route taking in a horseshoe type shape around the North Western fells, an area of the Lakes I haven't visited in a long time, and we followed the plateau over to Hopegill Head.

We then turned to head over Sand Hill and dropped down to Coledale Hause.

From here we started our climb towards Grassmoor, the cloud was thicker over this side and unfortunately we didn't really get any views, we stopped for a quick bite to eat at the summit shelter and then headed off in the direction of Whiteless Pike.

Ali took over the navigation from here, I am trying to teach him a bit more about map reading and navigation and he's not a bad pupil! As we dropped off Grassmoor and and headed over the head of Rannerdale Beck we caught our first glimpses of Buttermere below and over to Newlands Hause on the other side.

We turned back on ourselves and ran over Wandope and on to Eel Crag, practicing taking bearings on the way. This is Steve and Ali at the summit of Eel Crag.

I really enjoyed the descent over Sail and down to Sail Pass, no pain and my legs were flowing well, getting back into my downhill groove. We ticked off Scar Crags and then took another 5 mins for a quick bite, before we carried on to Causey Pike.

It was getting time to head back to the car, so we picked up a trod from Causey Pike in the direction of Outerside, climbed this and dropped off the other side to Coledale Beck enjoying the scree run on the way down.

From the top of Outerside we had great views down over Keswick and Derwent Water.

We followed Coledale Beck down to Braitwaite before retracing out steps back to the car. An excellent day out and one that still had plenty of fun to come. We headed to Keswick for a swim and shower before grabbing something to eat.

Leg 1 Emma's BG

2010-05-20T22:50:00.003+01:00

Friday night was a bit of an eye opener for me, I was looking forward to supporting Emma's BG leg 1 with some trepidation due to the lack of time I have spent on the fells in the past 6 months, and the fact I had spent the previous weekend in France eating cheese and drinking wine. I got away from home slightly later than planned but made good time up to Keswick, I did however forget that I had only had a cheese sandwich earlier that day and had forgotten to get something for dinner on the way, whoops!

I joined Emma in the square in front of the Moot Hall as she prepared herself for the next 24hrs on the fells and let the nervous energy build up. I was carrying Emma's sack with her kit and water/food, the plan was that we would meet Yiannis at the top of Halls Fell to follow his "parachute" descent. We were a group of 4 support, Mark Smith(Swiss Toni), Mark, Dave and me.

I could tell from the start that I was going to struggle, she was setting a blistering pace and I had forgotten just how quick the BG pace is compared to my leisurely wanderings in the fells of late. I had to take a short cut below Skiddaw to Hare Crag and then join the group again, I swapped bags with Dave and skipped Great Calva and went direct across the river and up Mungrisdale Common. The group caught me at the foot of Atkinson Pike but I noticed that Mark had dropped off the back. I wasn't sure if he knew where he was going so I walked with him up the scree to the summit of Blencathra. I was now starting to regret wearing shorts as my legs were cramping due to the cold, the temperature had dropped quite a lot.

We could see the torches of Emma's party heading down the gully but I decided to stick to what I know and used Halls Fell, it was pretty greasy at the top and it was now getting quite dark. We picked our way down and after what seemed like quite a long time we made it down to Threlkeld. Emma was long gone but we still managed to grab a brew and a muffin. I also bumped into Duncan which was great to have a chat with him, and being the gentleman he is he gave me a lift back to Keswick before I drove home.

I'm pleased to say that Emma finished in 23hrs 8mins, a fantastic time and well earned. Well done Em :-)

A day in the lakes

2010-04-26T10:15:00.003+01:00

Last weekend we had a day out on the bikes on the Saturday catching some sun and then decided to make an early start on the Sunday and head North for a run/walk round Skiddaw taking in the BG descent down Hare Crag and then following the Cumbria way track past Skiddaw House and back down to our start point at Threlkeld.

Heading up Latrigg looking back over Keswick and Derwent Water

We parked at the Cricket Club in Threlkeld and took the old Railway line path through the woods to Keswick leisure centre and then followed Spooney Green Lane till we joined the path round Latrigg and onto the ascent of Jenkin Hill.

The North Western Fells

It didn't feel as easy as this time last year when I was doing 40+ miles a week but it felt okay and I still move uphill pretty quickly so hopefully I won't get left behind on Emma's BG in May. The climb doesn't get any shorter up Skiddaw and as usual for a nice Sunday there were plenty of people to share the path with. There was still a bit of snow hanging onto the upper slopes just out of the sun, as you can see on the picture below.

Gem having a quick rest in the sun

It was good to get to the top for the wonderful views over the Lake District on a sunny, hazy morning in April. This time last year I was supporting Ian Charters on his JNC and I remember us having an equally nice day, see the post from April 2009. We crossed the fence at the three fence posts and headed down Hare Crag towards the Cumbria Way, this is where I decided to see how well my knee had recovered and I'm glad to say that I was running downhill with no pain at all, so fingers crossed I am fixed and can get back into some running.

It was quite dry near the bottom of Hare Crag in the usually boggy area, and we made good time across to Skiddaw House before dropping down towards Threlkeld and back to the car. A good day out and I don't think far off 15-20 miles (I forgot to wear my Garmin, Doh!).

This weekend Gem was away on a hen do so I had a ride out on the bike on Saturday afternoon for a couple of hours, I was going well just over 32 miles in 2hrs.

24/04/2010 Route
Find more Bike Rides in Croston, United Kingdom

I'm Still Here

2010-04-01T17:33:00.000+01:00

Hello All

Seems like a long time since I posted, good sense has taken over unfortunately and I have been officially resting since I pulled out of the TOP last year. My plan is to try and run again over the Easter weekend, I have Emma's BG coming up and Bill has asked me to help out on his Ramsay round later in the summer as well.

I have still been doing a bit of cycling but not much else. The pain I was experiencing in my knee has more or less dispersed now so I think I am ready. Fingers crossed I'll be blogging my runs again soon.

Weight Watchers

2010-01-21T21:05:00.000Z

After stepping on the scales after Christmas I explained how I had a bit of a shock, due to my lack of running at the moment due to my dodgy knee I have looked towards my diet more carefully. I have in the past used the Weight Watchers points method to drop a few pounds and it is pretty fool proof, you get so many points a day, you eat what you want, and everything has a value in points. Once you get to your points limit for the day you can't eat any more, and magically you lose weight. Simple theory really it just ensures you eat less than you burn off.

Over the last couple of weeks I have lost 9lbs so I have made a half decent start, my goal is to get under 12 stone this year, the lightest I have been in recent years is 12st 10lb, so it will be a bit of a challenge. I managed to cycle in to work this week on Tuesday, it felt good and I did at least feel like I still had some fitness. I am going to build this up steadily whilst I'm still being careful running on my knee. Plans are to go for a bit of a run this weekend so I'll have to see how I go. Hopefully should have more to report soon as I start to build back up to something like the mileage I was doing last year.

Booked some tickets yesterday for the Legends of Fell Running talk at the Theatre by the Lake in Keswick on the 19th May, part of the Keswick Mountain Festival. Hopefully Ali and I will be going up for the full day and having a run first if anyone would like to join us. Tickets are £14 but I'm sure it will be a great evening with Joss Naylor and Kenny Stuart on the bill.

Hope everyone's training is going well for those attempting Bob Graham Rounds this summer, I'm looking forward to some supporting all being well. I'm enjoying reading all about your training at the moment brings back some happy memories from last year, many enjoyable hours spent on the fells with friends old and new.

A Winter Wander

2010-01-09T17:43:00.001Z

Had a walk around the moss from our house in Croston today, I took the opportunity to get a few photos of the area in all it's snow covered glory. I love this time of winter, on a clear day in the late afternoon when the shadows stretch out and the snow catches the pink glow of the setting sun.

Just Testing

2010-01-07T21:57:00.001Z

Twitter Feed Test

Deer Stalking

2010-01-05T10:14:00.000Z

Had a great walk with Gem on Sunday, just from our house, across the frozen fields and through some woodland in Ulnes Walton (behind the prison). We spent quite a few evenings round here in the summer and became familiar with a heard of deer that seem to live in the woodland and surrounding area. We quite regularly spotted them in the woods or in the fields around this area.

On Sunday we wandered into the woods, following a track well used by the deer, this was obvious due to all the hoof prints. Sure enough it wasn't long till we spotted a face looking from behind a tree, then about eight deer appeared and ran off through the woods, skipping over fallen branches and leaves and weaving through the trees. I am not sure of the breed but from browsing the internet I suspect they are either Roe or Fallow deer.

We finished off our walk by crossing the railway line and following Wymott Brook to the River Lostock. The fileds are all frozen and all that remains is the stalks of the crops where they have been harvested at the end of the Summer, it a very quiet place this time of year compared to the wildlife we saw buzzing round during the summer. We bumped into some ponies just as we got back to Croston but that was all.

I may venture out this week for a short trot, was looking through some books last night at some challenges around 30-40 miles in the local area. I think I may have a go in March/April at the Bowland 1500s and the Lancashire Three Peaks or the Three Towers route. Anybody had any experience of these ?

Groan!

2010-01-04T14:15:00.002Z

Well.................I need to get back into it!!

Starting with a great big weight loss plan, I wouldn't say I went mad over Christmas, but the scales tell a differnt story.

A combination of not training through injury, basking in my glory post BG, and a healthy appetite from all the BG training has contributed to me gaining one and a half stone since I finished my BG at the end of June.

I am still suffering a bit with my knee, but hopefully by doing the strengthening excericises and building up the mileage slowly, plus some more work on the bike I should be back into the groove in a couple of months or so. The icy conditions haven't inspired me to get out on the bike either, although more of an excuse, because I've seen plenty of other cyclists out on the roads.

So 2010 resolutions are to get my weight under 12 stone, not eat chocolate, cakes, biscuits etc unless during an Ultra ! and to stop making excuses and get back up to the mileage I was doing earlier last year.

I think I am going to leave the UTMB till 2011, my entry still stands for another year and concentrate on the building blocks to go for it during this year.

Gem, I think, will become a regular training partner this year and I must also sort my mountain bike out so I can have a go at some adventure racing again with Anthony.

Looking forward to 2010 Happy New Year everybody.

Nearly Christmas

2009-12-18T10:42:00.000Z

I've now finished work for Christmas and so have the next week to myself, the Physio has advised me to lay off running till the New Year and do some knee strengthening excercises. But I should be okay to ride the bike. Just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and very Happy New Year. Sorry there hasn't been much to report for the last couple of months, but I'll be back into the swing next year.

All the Best - Karl

DNF, TOP

2009-11-22T17:05:00.001Z

Not a great result for me yesterday at the Tour of Pendle. I started off okay, the climbing felt hard at race pace but I was moving okay, further down the field than I was last year, but that was expected. It started going wrong on the "Geronimo" descent to Ogden Clough, my recurring knee pain I have been experiencing of late almost stopped me in my tracks as I jarred it running downhill.

I limped on to the end of the clough and the next climb but I decided that I was only going to do more harm so I sadly walked out to retire. The first race I haven't finished, gutted doesn't start to explain it. I think I need to rest, lose some weight and probably see a physio before starting training in ernest again in the new year.

Conditions where tough yesterday so well done to everyone who finished. It was great to see a few friends and catch up, just a shame about the result.

Wanderings around Winter Hill

2009-10-27T20:07:00.000Z

Gem and I had a great day round Rivington and Winter Hill on Sunday battling against the elements, I was testing out my new shoes bought last weekend after a quick jog round Latrigg on a whistle stop trip to Keswick. I decided to try the New Balance 840 I loved the RX terrain but unfortunately they are not made anymore, and these were £50 in the factory shop so cheaper than anything else I had considered.

12 months ago I was battling severe weather on the OMM and being featured on the BBC News, but this year a fellow competitor from last year had invited me to his wedding, thus getting me out of it for another 12 months, I will be back to finish it next time.

We decided to make an early start and try and get in about 3 - 4 hours of running around the local fells, vaguely following parts of the Winter Hill race, the wind was definitely against us and climbing up Winter Hill from Egg Hillock was definitely hard graft. It was great to be out getting a few miles in, I need to get back into it ready for the Tour of Pendle next month. Talking to a couple of friends on Saturday night I have some competition. I might even be tempted to a recce on Friday afternoon if I get out of work in time.

I've been out on the bike a bit, cycling to work and went for a long ride taking in a few climbs last week when I was off work. I'm off again on Monday and Tuesday so I think I'll take advantage and get a couple of long days out, one running and one on the bike. I have been having a littl bit of knee pain but I think its down to all the miles I have done this year and hopefully nothing serious.

Just need to figure out my goals for next year, I've been looking at a few events and noticed that I can qualify for the Ultra Tour de Mont Blanc, a race I have fancied doing for ages so I'll have a look and maybe venture out for something a bit different. Any good ideas gratefully received.......

I have been following loads of blogs recently and its great to read about people's antics have a look down my blog roll and take a couple of minutes to check out some of the blogs, a really good read.

BG Reunion Dinner

2009-10-11T13:00:00.001+01:00

Last night was the Bob Graham Round Club reunion dinner at the Shap Wells Hotel. It was the end of a BG journey that started about two years ago, recieving my certificate from Anne Johnson, the womens record holder for the BG and 24hr record (66 peaks!). If felt great to finally hold that certificate in my hands, although Mark Hartells words were resounding through my head still. If it wasn't for all the help I have received during my training, and on the round it would have been impossible to be here, thank you again to all those who helped me to get to the end I don't think I would ever be able to repay you fully, but do remind me I owe you all a pint at least !

Fontainebleau

2009-10-01T21:44:00.005+01:00

We have just had a wonderful two weeks holiday in France getting plenty of bouldering done and getting some sun. We have been to Font four times before, but every time we go we find new places to explore, it is a beautiful place and the climbing is as hard as you want it to be, loads for everyone to do. Two weeks in a tent has been great and I feel fully refreshed and ready to get back into the swing of training again, just need to decide on the next goal.

Off for another day of Bouldering at Apremont

91.1 with the fine white sand

Got a bouldering mat and a baguette, all's good!

Franhard Haute Plains

Grez sur Loing, village where we camped

At the tent

Chicken on the fire, nice !

The end of my Kanadias

2009-08-21T16:51:00.003+01:00

It was a sad day Sunday as I was unpacking my stuff from the car, I had only got home from the lakes at 2am so I had just chucked my shoes under the car so my car didn't stink, and chucked my clothes in the washing machine.

I had made the decision about half way down Scafell that it was definitely time to retire my trusty Adidas Kanadia Trail shoes that have done so many mile with me this year. I bought them back in April and used them on most of my runs since, including the Fellsman and my Bob Graham round. To be honest they were looking pretty tired after my BG with a few holes here and there but there was still some life in the soles and I wasn't going to chuck them away just yet, value for money and all that.

I was finding I was slipping around a bit of Saturday and noticed I could see quite a bit of my socks whilst running as well. For a trail shoe they have been pretty handy on the fells and I have to say that I would definitely invest in another pair as a training shoe and would recommend them to anyone running on predominantly trails or rocky terrain such as the Lake District Fells, they perhaps don't have the grip of an out and out fell show such as a walsh or mudclaw but for general running they are an affordable option, I only paid £40 for mine and there are plenty of deals around. Good cushioning and fit although order 1/2 a size bigger and great feel and grip.

Mike and Ali's Bob Graham Round

2009-08-21T12:46:00.002+01:00

The end Ali & Mike

I was contacted through my blog by a couple of lads who I ran the last 20 miles or so of the Fellsman with this year, Alistair and Mike. I had recently been making enquiries to find out if they had managed to complete their Bob Graham Round on the 6th June, the same weekend I had originally planned mine. It transpires that they experienced unseasonal conditions on the Helvellyn ridge with snow and wind, which left them and their pacers in a near hypothermic state, resulting in them calling it a day at Dunmail.

Ali contacted me so I emailed him to see how their support was looking, when he described it as very light he wasn't joking, so far none! I volunteered for three legs, if required, from Dunmail onwards and advised them to try the FRA forum for some help. As usual the forumites rallied support together and they now had support on all the legs, ready for a 00:30 start on the 15th August.

The forecast was not brilliant, gales and rain, but it looked as though it was set to improve from lunch time onwards. I met the road support in Keswick in the morning and left my car by the B&B they were using as a base and even managed to get a brew from the owners who were very accommodating and also runners from Keswick AC so understood the whole BG thing! We headed up to Dunmail to meet them, they had set off from Threlkeld 10 mins down on a 23:30 schedule so we were pleased to see them coming down Seat Sandal 10 mins up on schedule again. After a quick water and feed it was off up Steel Fell with me in the navigator/mule/pacer role, I was determined to try and make some time up on this leg for them so they would be 30 mins up at Wasdale. We were going really well, the conditions were shocking and as the wind gusted and the rain persisted down it made the going hard work. I was worried about the rocky ground from Bowfell onwards that I knew would be slippy and it would be hard for us to maintain the pace and the increasing advantage we had. Luckily for me the guys were still going great as I had a bit of a dip on the climb up Bowfell, but soon recovered and we were making great time across the plateau towards Esk Pike and Great End.

Fading light from Grey Knotts

As we reached the summit of Scafell Pike we had a 30 min advantage and the rain had eventually subsided, and there seemed to be a brightening behind the clouds. Obviously Broad Stand was not an option so we traversed under the East Face of Scafell to pick up the Foxes Tarn path, unfortunately we mistook the path for a stream and went too far, after a bit of backtracking we got onto the path and headed up to Scafell, we had lost the advantage but were still on schedule. After a quick descent we picked up the scree slope down to Brackenclose and we met up with Steve Lang who was to support leg 4 with my assistance.

I decided to take an extended rest at Wasdale as I was feeling pretty drained after pushing it on the last leg, I would have something to eat and change my socks etc and meet up with the guys again at Black Sail Pass. After a quick drink with Anna and John I headed off up the path to the pass, I got there half an hour before they were due so I ducked down out of the wind and admired the scenery for a while. I could soon see Mike's bright yellow jacket making its way down pillar so I gathered my stuff together and joined them on the slog up Kirk Fell. It felt good to see them again and get back into the rhythm ticking the peaks off, we were soon over Great Gable, Green Gable, Brandreth and Grey Knotts and I was picking up the line down to Honister, as we looked left the sun, low in the sky, was reflecting off Buttermere and Crummock Water it looked as though the last leg was going to provide some good conditions.

Descending to Honister

After a quick feed and water stop at Honister all that was left was three more peaks, by the time we reached the summit of Dalehead our head torches were on as we jogged across to Hindscarth and then onto Robinson. The pace was quick and I was working hard to stick with them, we made steady progress down the Robinson Ridge the dark making it quite awkward and difficult to move at any speed. We soon hit the grassy col and we descended into Newlands and along the road to dump the bags and for Mike and Ali to change into road shoes. The pace back into Keswick was blistering for two fellas who had just run 60 odd miles and not bad for one who had done nearly 40, it was decided that, although it was a tenuous achievement, if we got back for midnight then they would have finished inside a calendar day. We went for it sprinting down the road and onto the High Street, the drunken revellers passing comment that it was too late to be running, they touched the Moot Hall at 23:59 twenty three hours and thirty three minutes since they set off.

I recognised the bemused grins on their faces, that feeling of utter exhaustion and a disbelief that, yes you have done it, you complete the Bob Graham Round. Good effort lads you deserved it, and it didn't come easy, it was certainly earned.

From Black Sail Pass looking towards the end

Coming off Pillar to Black Sail

Yewbarrow

Crossing the Langdale Pikes

Who ate all the Pies ?

2009-08-20T09:53:00.005+01:00

I thought some of my followers may be interested to see some pictures of me from the dark and distant past when I wasn't a fell runner. These pictures are c 1997 when I went to Benidorm with a couple of my mates. Its quite shocking to look at them now and reminds me what I was like before I got into excercising. I was about 17 stone or so then, and definitely more into eating and drinking than running up and down fells!

Good bit of ballast in the boat

The sun always agreed with me!

Post pie eating competition!

The Hoff eat your heart out

Shocking I know, who would have thought he could run a BG ?

IMUK

2009-08-04T20:26:00.002+01:00

On Sunday the Iron Man UK cycle route came past our house, Ben, John and Alex were doing it so we made sure we were out early to support them and all the other competitors. Well done to them all on finishing what must be a gruelling event, I think I'd drown on the swim.

Congratulations Iron Men some photos I managed to capture during the day.

The last few weeks

2009-08-04T15:35:00.003+01:00

Pen-y-Ghent

Its been a few weeks since I last posted on my Blog but don't worry I haven't given up or disappeared, lost motivation or got lost just not really had the time to sit down and write down my thoughts.

I was surprised just how much the round did take out of me, I've not slept so well for years, even a couple of weeks later I could still feel some effects from my round. I did a couple of routes on the big wall at the climbing wall and was shot, the bike ride to work felt hard work but I still averaged 17-18 mph so It mustn't have been as bad as it felt!

I think supporting my Bob Graham Round has sparked some interest with Gem which has been fantastic, and as a result I now have a regular training partner on the fells. Our first excursion was to Horton in Ribblesdale and an attempt on the three peaks at a fairly leisurely pace aiming for about 6-7 hrs. We made pretty good time over Pen-y-Ghent and carried on well by Hull Pot and onto Birkwith Moor but the sky turned a very dark shade of grey and started to look very angry. We had only taken lightweight jackets with us so I decided it was probably better to turn for home down the road back to Horton cutting the run short. Sure enough half way back the heavens opened and we were well and truly drenched by the rain, straight through our shower proof jackets and soaked to the skin. Definitely a baptism of fire for Gem, which I hoped had not put her off too much.

Gem on the way to Whernside

Beating a hasty retreat !

The 12th July we headed up to Honister Pass as I had planned to support Duncan Richards on his 50@50 we had a text message on the way to say he was down on schedule but still going. Unfortunately for Duncan he had to call it a day at Red Pike due to excruciating pain in his knees and make a low level traverse to Honister. He arrived about 7hrs after we expected him but it was great to see him and help him down of Grey Knotts. We did manage to get a few miles in during the day having a run out to Black Sail Pass and then running up and down looking out for Duncan.

Gem heading up from Honister

The next weekend we decided to make amends and stay more local, heading off on one of my favourite training runs, although a slightly shortened version missing out Darwen Tower but taking in; Rivington Pike, Two Lads, Winter Hill and Great Hill a total of 16.5 miles and about 3,000ft of ascent so not a bad run. We walked this route last year with some folks from Gemma's work when they were training for the Caledonian Challenge so we both knew the terrain well. It was very wet around Winter Hill, due to the recent rain, which made going awkward at times especially when I slipped coming off the back of Winter Hill and got mud all up my back! It was a good day out and definitely more successful than the previous week, Gem was now starting to talk about maybe attempting the Fellsman next May!

The following weekend I volunteered, via the forum, to support Rod Jones on a sub 20hr BG on leg 2. I had run this leg pretty quick in practice for my BG but it would be a fast leg aiming for 3hrs 50 for 13.2 miles and 5900ft of ascent. I got a text from Anthony at 5:45 asking if I could bring him a bum bag as he may carry on to do leg 2 with us, I had just got up to get my stuff together. I hopped in the car and headed up to Threlkeld for about 8:00, I was talking to Rod's wife Gill and having a coffee when we spotted them on Halls Fell Ridge on schedule and moving steadily down.

They were soon down, Rod, Anthony and Stuart, who had turned up at the Moot Hall after reading the forum to offer support. We all soon set off to Clough Head and started the slog up the steep front, the last time I did this leg was on my BG in the dark and it seemed only too familiar. The pace was quick and we made great time along the ridge chatting as we ran about running, and the fells, four of us ticking off the peaks as we went, we had some strange glances from all the walkers making their way across the Helvellyn range. We sprinted (almost) up Fairfield and then over Seat Sandal and down to Dunmail Raise just three minutes down on the schedule. To cut a long story short there had been a serious accident with a cyclist and a motor bike and we arrived into a scene of ambulances, police cars and the air ambulance. Gill had witnessed the accident and delivered first aid to the cyclist whilst waiting for the emergency services to arrive so we had a bit of a wait whilst she gave a statement, it was at this point I should have sat in the shade as I came home with a lovely sun kissed glow after sitting in the midday sun for 2hrs ! Unfortunately Rod's wheels fell off on the way down Scafell and he had to drop out at Wasdale, he was going like a train so a real shame for him, better luck next time.

Pics from Rod's BG

BG Pics Album

2009-08-04T15:22:00.000+01:00

Leg 5 Honister - Keswick

2009-07-13T12:06:00.004+01:00

As we left Honister I knew it wouldn't be long till I saw Gem and Rick again, they were going to meet us at Newlands Church with road shoes for the last road section into Keswick. I was joined by Gerry Dewhurst & Steve Foster, as well as Emma who carried on from the last leg, Simon, who had been for lunch with Gem and Rick and was now raring to go again, and Jess who had got some kip in his bright pink tent at Dunmail then come to meet me for the last leg. It was great going up Dalehead, a fantastic feeling that all these people had come out to see me home I struggled to chew a Clif bar whilst climbing and only ended up eating half, it was too much effort to chew !

Me and my leg 5 support crew

Water and encouragement was passed from every direction each time I looked up, it was seriousy hot now in the afternoon sun and the miles were starting to show in my face I think. Coversation was light and humerous and a grin appeared across my face, this is the enjoyment of days like these, the atmosphere and comraderie shown by fellow fell runners. Two of these people I hadn't met before today, and yet they had driven all the way to the Lakes, at unsociable hours of the day, to help see me round my Bob Graham Round. It is truly humbling all the people that helped me and I will be forever grateful and would be pleased to return the favour any time.

On the way to Hindscarth

A couple of familiar faces appeared as we were descending Dalehead, Ian and Paline Charters, they have been a great source of information and support during the run up to my attempt and it was great to see them on the hill and run with them for a while, chatting as we shuffled along (it was definitely a a shuffle by now!). As we climbed Hindscarth and on to Robinson, more water was passed my way everywhere I looked, I remembered I had put a bag of Haribo in for this leg. Jess found them in his bag and I took a big handful, about half the bag, they tasted great and the only thing I could really be bothered eating by this point. Gerry tipped some left over water down my back, that was really refreshing.

As I touched peak number 42 it felt wonderful, all that training, the pain, the great days out, the not so great days out and everything I had worried about was lifted from my shoulders, it was done. Not yet though there was still the slight issue of getting to the Moot Hall ! the last descent felt great, stretching out my legs down the grassy slope, laughing at Jess who was struggling in his road shoes to get the required traction. All that was left now was 10k on the road, I wasn't going to set any records! We met Gem on the road and she ran for while with us, Rick was waiting with water in the cool box, and my road shoes, after a quick change we were away. I knew I had more than enough time for this section and I took it steady, taking the time to enjoy this moment, I don't think I wanted the Moot Hall to come too soon I just wanted to enjoy this feeling, a great day with friends in a beautiful place.

Nearly there

As we got nearer the smile got bigger and the legs strangely felt stronger, we crossed the bouncy bridge and then turned the corner onto the High Street, I could see the Moot Hall again for the first time in nearly 23 hrs. Gerry and Steve ran ahead to stop the traffic as people wound down their windows to enquire on whether it was a BG and offer their congratulations, I broke out into a sprint finish weaving my way through shoppers by the market, only to find the door blocked by a great big bloody van and some boxes! I was about to hurdle the boxes when the sensible voice in the back of my head said no, and I stepped gently through them to touch the door, YES!

Mine and Simon's sycronised dancing!

But where was Gem and Rick ? Everyone was shaking my hand and random strangers offered congratulations. Gem & Rick appeared over the steps, they weren't sure which side of the market stalls I would come up and hadn't seen me come in, Gem gave me a massive hug, her and Rick had played a blinder on the road support it was flawless, she told me she was really proud of me but I was really proud of her too. They had brought some bubbly with them and after a couple of swigs out of the bottle I passed it round. Jude from Gemma's work had turned up to see me in, and she commented that I looked to fresh, I certainly didn't feel it! As everyone dispersed and said their goodbyes we headed down to the car, we all sat round for a bit eating flap jack, making phone calls and just trying to take it all in whilst we reorganised the car and bagged all the smelly stuff.

My walk had become quite comical now and I wouldn't have looked out of place in a Monty Python sketch! Of course the room in the Hotel was on the second floor! We had a shower then headed down for some dinner and some more bubbly. Duncan Richards popped in to say hello, it was great to see him, I have spent a lot of time training with him. We were all starting to show signs of fatigue, converstaion had turned to grunts and we decided it was time for bed..................

Thank you to all of you who helped me get here, to all those who've dragged me out on training runs, asked me to support various challenges, those who turned up on the day to drag me round, I can't thank you enough. Huge thanks to my road side team, Rick & Gem, a pleasure to see you both and you looked after me amazingly. Especially Gem for being so understanding when I kept dissapearing at 3 in the morning and leaving you for the day, for not getting fed up with me talking about the Bob Graham all the time and for your support. Thank you all.

Leg 4 Wasdale - Honister

2009-07-09T08:22:00.004+01:00

Leaving Wasdale

I had, in the back of mind, been dreading Yewbarrow slightly, it's so steep and unrelenting and infamously one of the hardest parts of a clockwise round. I was moving okay though, slightly weighed down by the rice pudding, but moving slowly upwards towards the summit. I had figured out early on in the round that the energy chews I had put in where great to suck on for a bit of a boost, so I was making my way through them as we moved along. We picked up the trod off the back of Yewbarrow towards Red Pike, Anthony commenting that it was unfair I could still run downhill faster than him even though I had so many miles in my legs! Bill took a detour to cut out a few peaks and aid his recovery from the last leg.

With Emma in charge of navigation, Red Pike was soon ticked off and we were on the way to Steeple, I had run this leg the other way with Ian Charters only a couple of weeks before and I knew a few useful lines that Kath Brierley had shown us to cut out a bit of rough ground. The sun was baking down now and the water was going down fast, every time I looked to the right on this section I could see Great Gable looming, waiting for me, I blocked it out and just tried to concentrate on the next peak. To quote Richard Asquith "This part of the circuit is, by general consent, one of the hardest patches of any clockwise round, with three of the biggest peaks of all - Pillar, Kirk Fell and Great Gable - in quick succession. After that it gets easier; but knowing that it will do so doesn't make the patch any less painful. The sheer quantity of ascent and descent consumes your morale as voraciously as it consumes your strength." Anthony and Emma gave me regular updates and kept the encouragement going as I tried to keep my mind on the job in hand.

One of those ascents!

Coming down off Pillar

My legs were feeling heavy and the climbing felt hard, every time I lifted my knees it felt harder but I stuck with it. As we came down from Pillar to Black Sail Pass, Bill was waiting with fresh water bottles, he took some empties round Kirk Fell to fill them at a stream, I dipped my hat in a small tarn and put it back on to chill my head down a bit. Kirk Fell felt a long climb and as Bill joined us for the climb up Great Gable I could really feel the miles in my legs. As we got to the top Bill said I could follow him down a quick route to Green Gable, it had taken him 14 mins with someone a few weeks before so off we flew down a rocky slope and down to Windy Gap, we then climbed up the top of Green Gable, this took us ten mins, it felt good and I think at this point I realised I had it in the bag.

Emma, Anthony & Me on Great Gable

Just five more peaks and that was it, Brandreth and Grey Knotts passed quickly and we were soon on the descent to Honister Pass, I felt a lot differently than I did here last October on the OMM, I had four hours to get to Keswick and no less than five support to help me.

Gemma and Me at Honister

I had my soup and warm Nuun and my last couple of Ibruprofen and then I was on my feet and on my way again.....................

Leg 3 Dunmail Raise - Wasdale Head

2009-07-07T17:12:00.004+01:00

Simon and me through the mist

We made good time up Steel Fell, only just over the schedule time, I have always used the direct route straight up the gully when climbing Steel Fell, although whilst talking to Joss Naylor (notice the name drop!) at Wasdale on Ian Charters’ 55@55 he mentioned going diagonally on a rising traverse and going up a gully just near the top. This was the line we took and it seemed a much nicer gradient and easier than normal, Bill was spot on as usual with his route finding and we skipped across the top and onto Calf Crag no problem. The cloud was now starting to burn off and rise making a nice morning, as the heat started to penetrate and warm my body.

Simon gave me a piece of fruitcake and some honey roasted nuts on the way to Sergeant Man, these made a nice change to the food I had been having and gave me a little boost. I was fairly focused on this leg and pretty much kept my head down and followed Bill and Simon, who kept talking to me and encouraging me along. I wasn’t the best conversationalist at this point but just listening to them gave me something to think about. I was just off the schedule times on the earlier peaks but didn’t lose much time. I suppose this was the first time I had really started to feel a bit of a hard spot, up the back of Rossett Pike and onto Bowfell it felt hard. As I got to the top of Bowfell though Bill told me that I had made about 4 mins on the ascent, I said “good because it felt like I was trying!”

Approaching the summit of Scafell Pike

The highest point on my BG, Scafell Pike

This was just the news I needed and it spurred me on, over Esk Pike and Great End I gained more time and then after we had ticked Ill Crag and Broad Crag I made up a bit of time climbing Scafell Pike. This was the first time I can remember seeing other people, loads of three peakers and a couple of rangers. To my relief I could see Steve on Broad Stand with the ropes in place, I gave him a wave and he shouted “Karl?”, “yes hello Steve” I shouted. I got to the bottom and I was offered a belay but I said I would be okay with the hand line. I was soon up and over the difficulties and could hardly believe how quick it was, I was now on the scramble to the top with Bill close by, we made the top 7 mins quicker than the schedule.

Approaching Broad Stand

Nearing the top of Scafell

I had turned round as I reached Broad Stand to look for Simon, I hadn’t heard from him for a bit, but he was nowhere to be seen. He had stopped to put something in his bag but we had gone from sight, I felt bad but we couldn't wait I had to get down to Wasdale. We ran down the path then picked up the trod to the crags and straight down the scree, we were flying and I felt great, we had made up nearly half an hour and it gave me a great sense of confidence to carry on.

Again the road side crew were perfect everything was in place just as ordered, I had asked for sparkling mineral water at the road side stops, as a bit of a change from water. This prompted much ridiculing from Gem and Rick as to whether I required ice and a slice as well! It hit the spot at Wasdale though, I drank loads from the bottle, the heat of the sun was starting to rise and Gem and Rick had given extra water to my support team, I think Anthony was carrying about 4kgs of water plus his own, of which I think he sacrificed some to fit mine in. Gemma rubbed sun cream into my head and my shoulders as it was obvious it was going to be a scorcher. This is where I realised Gem must really love me, she took my shoes and socks off , put talc on my feet and then put new socks on. The minutes passed quickly and it was soon time to get back on my feet and on the way to Honister…………

Leg 2 Threlkeld - Dunmail Raise

2009-07-06T22:14:00.008+01:00

Unfortunately we did not see a spectacular sun set over the ridge as I had hoped, the cloud was not lifting and definitely looked set to hang around for a bit. As we approached Clough Head I started thinking of the day I had linked together leg 1 & 2 with Duncan. I had decided to recce the route straight up the front, rather than going up the coach road and climbing the ridge. I felt good then and felt pretty good on my round. I did have a thought on the day out with Duncan that it might be a bit much to go straight up on my round. I tried to convey these feelings to Jesse but I think he misunderstood me or chose to ignore my concerns as we were soon heading up by the gully, straight up the front. By now we had our head torches on and we could see Iain’s team fast approaching behind (I had passed Iain on the descent of Great Calva), Pete was struggling slightly with half a lung and one kidney problems so we took a minute and let Iain’s team through. We walked alongside them for a while, discussing the Fellsman and other runs earlier in the year, before we stopped for a minute to let Pete catch up.

It was clear that tonight was not going to be straight forward as the cloud was so thick on the tops that your torch light just reflected straight back in your face, it was still mild and I felt quite warm in my long sleeved top. We were soon running with torches in hand, rather than on our heads, as this diminished the glare slightly, although it was hard to gain much speed as the visibility was still poor. We arrived at the summit of Great Dodd and this was where the trouble really started. We bumped into Iain’s group again, we were all disorientated and confused in the conditions and it took us quite a while and a re visit to the summit to get on the way again. It quickly felt wrong though, too steep with rising ground to the left. I am not an advocate of GPS but Pete had switched his on, and on this occasion I was prepared to trust it, we ran off on a line and eventually reached the summit of Watsons Dodd, again the ground felt familiar.

I was back in my comfort zone again as we jogged along the ridge, although I was aware that we were not moving quickly enough, and were losing time on every peak against the schedule. The Great Dodd debacle had cost me at least 20 minutes but most of that was my advantage from leg 1 so I didn’t feel too bad. I decided that at the rate we were going we would only be about half an hour down by Dunmail. I felt content with this as the reason I had decided on a 22 hour schedule was to allow for any such incidents having said that it's still not great to feel minutes slipping away from you.

Nethermost Pike and Dollywagon Pike are awkward summits to find in the best of conditions and those on the night of my attempt certainly were of no assistance but with some micro nav we picked them up. The descent to Grisedale Tarn I have done so many times in training and usually fly down skipping over the rocks but in the dark and cloud I was stumbling and slipping and felt like Bambi! I got down to the Tarn outflow and onto the path to the col; we dumped the bags and started climbing Fairfield. I could see Iain’s team’s lights high up on the ridge and we passed them on their way down as we were about to hit the top. This gave me a boost as I realised we hadn’t dropped too much time or at least Iain had had similar troubles. We agreed on the summit cairn and then turned to run back to the ridge. It instantly didn’t seem right, too steep, the path was too windy, oh s**t! We then got very confused, traversed, still not right, the other way not right, panic, panic and more panic. Eventually we just looked at the compass and headed west! I hit a scree chute and said right if we drop down this we should hit the tarn, we had lost loads of time and I was feeling pretty low.

We hit the path by the tarn again, I grabbed my bag, head down, just get up Seat Sandal I told myself all is not lost. I was probably pretty quiet on this section although I don’t remember so much about it. I thought back to the text that Duncan had sent me just before I started “enjoy every peak” these words seemed to offer some comfort and I remembered why I was doing this. It wasn’t about proving anything to anyone but myself. I could still get round in 23 hours, I could maybe even make some time up, just stick with it. As I dropped off Seat Sandal a welcome sight, Rick's torch flashing up in my direction, I just wanted something to eat, a hot drink and to get going again. I still felt strong physically and after my discussions with myself my mental strength had returned. The sun was starting to show itself and the early morning light and heat gave me the boost I was hoping for.

At Dunmail Raise after getting my head together

Bill and Simon were both waiting for me, Pete decided he would peel off and head home and Jesse said he would see me later on leg 5, no problems, the rice pudding was divine, and my tea like nectar. I think Rick and Gem were worried about me, Rick was about to give me a good talking too but I was good, I had sorted my own head out. Within minutes I was ready to go with a fresh and strong support team, Bill out in front setting a strong pace for leg 3……...

Leg 1 Keswick - Threlkeld

2009-07-06T14:59:00.007+01:00

Iain Kelly and Me at the Moot Hall

We set off well, just keeping back from Iain Kelly’s team, I was trying to leave a bit of a gap between us as I certainly didn’t want to be racing round. The night air was warm and humid and as the noise of the evening cricket match disappeared below us the conversation was light and full of tales of Bob Graham rounds, fell races, old heroes of the fells and Albert and Colin’s humour which kept it entertaining.

I then heard the sounds of what appeared to be a bag piper, no surely not, as we got closer the others agreed with me, and as we got to the car park at Latrigg we could see a lone piper at the top of the hill. This was totally unexpected but very surreal and certainly added to the atmosphere.
Colin and Geoff climbing Jenkin Hill

It’s hard to hold back whilst climbing Skiddaw, you have all that training in your legs, you haven’t done much for two or three weeks and it’s a long steady drag its easy to get carried away with the moment. We paced it well though, Colin reminding me every so often we were doing fine.
Me climbing Jenkin Hill

We were soon enveloped by low cloud, a theme that was to continue as far as Dunmail Raise. After touching my first of 42 summit cairns we were running again, down to the three fence posts close together, over the fence keep left, pick up the trod, it all seemed so fresh in my mind from the day I did it with Bill a month or so earlier. Then we noticed some runners to the left, it was Iain with his pacers, we must have picked a faster line or something not quite sure how we did that. We were down at the Cumbria Way track in great time and Ken Maynard was waiting with some water and jelly babies which he gladly shared, cheers. We took a couple of minutes whilst my pacers regrouped, just to let Iain get ahead again, before we started our ascent up Great Calva.

I was feeling pretty good and the climb passed without any trouble, we were soon hurtling down by the fence and to the river crossing, I spotted two rocks high out of the water and even managed to make a dry crossing, bonus. As we climbed up Mungrisdale common we were soon in the cloud again, Colin picked a great line, and without ever looking at a map, we walked straight up to the summit. He admitted to be on the way down Halls Fell that he had forgotten to put his map in his bag and was working off memory! We got to the top of Halls Fell in the last light of the day, as I had hoped, and made good time down to Threlkeld.

Jesse met us on the path to say the support was further up the lane than we were expecting, a mistake on my part whoops! Gem was exactly where I had told her, at the end of the lane next to the kennels, sorry I meant the wood yard! I got sat down and had my soup, bread and banana and black tea and honey, just as I had ordered. I knew then that the road support had it sorted and I had nothing left to worry about but to put one foot in front of the other. Pete and Jesse were here but no Dave, his wife had broke her leg so he was busy elsewhere, but we were about 15mins up and on our way again, torches in hand as the last light of the day was well and truly disappearing…………………………….

At Threlkeld, Jess & Pete ready to go, Rick waiting on

Colin relaxing at Threlkeld

Prelude to a BG

2009-07-06T13:39:00.008+01:00

Some of the team prior to the off at the Moot Hall L-R Anthony, Albert, Colin, Gemma, Donkarlo, Rick, Geoff and Jesse

Anthony and me discussing route choices

It has taken me a while but I have got round to writing my report of the fantastic experience I enjoyed over the 26th and 27th June 2009.

Friday was a strange day, I had planned to have a really long sleep, maybe even into the afternoon. This of course didn't go to plan as I was wide awake by 8 and sort of managed to dose until 10 when I decided enough was enough and it was time for a shower. Most of the kit I had sorted through the week , but this didn't alleviate the last minute anguish, envisaging myself sat at Wasdale with no socks, no food and no support. I had a phone call whilst I was in the shower and Gems gave me a shout to say that Duncan Richards was on the phone, I towelled off and spoke to him. Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond his control he couldn't make the Broad Stand support but was in touch with Iain Kelly's rope man to try and sort something out, slight panic ensued, but I just thought, well I have other options if needs be and remained calm. My support crew was complete and without too many last minute changes looked like this.

Leg 1 - Albert Sunter, Geoff Lyons & Colin Jones
Leg 2 - Pete Dennett, Jesse Palmer & Dave Walker
Leg 3 - Bill Willamson & Simon Cartledge
Leg 4 - Anthony Fryer, Bill Williamson & Emma Aindow-Gregory
Leg 5 - Gerry Dewhurst, Emma Aindow-Gregory & Steve Foster, plus others ?

We had some lunch, lots of spaghetti for me, and started packing the car. The Golf isn't really a small car but it was looking well stuffed with kit and I couldn't help wondering if perhaps we had too much gear, "oh well you can never have too much !". We were slightly late setting off from home and a little behind schedule, but with plenty of time in hand to get to Keswick, Rick rang me to say he was just leaving work so wouldn't be long. We sat outside his house as the minutes ticked by and I was starting to get slightly nervous as half past four approached, leaving us just enough time to get to Keswick for half past six if there was no traffic.

Suddenly a silver streak came flying round the corner as Rick performed a parking manoeuvre at speed outside the house. "Now be careful Aidan, Daddy is a little stressed so stand back" I heard Helen say and we chucked Rick's bags in the car as he hugged Aidan, got changed, kissed Helen and was sat in the car ready to go, all in about 60 seconds ! We them launched into cyberspace as Gemma hit the particle accelerator and we cruised to Keswick at warp speed 8 arriving in plenty of time.

Duncan had called me on the way to say he had spoken to Steve (Iain's rope man) and he would stay put to rope me up Broad Stand, Superstar ! a huge relief. Albert and Colin were already here and looked ready to go, I did the necessary greasing up, checked my kit, explained where everything was in the car and which water was which etc. before wandering onto the High Street to hang around the Moot Hall ready for the 7pm departure. Geoff appeared in the nick of time and we sorted out kit into bags. It was a tense time, lots of people had come to see me off, although all I could think about was the impending run. I don't know if it was nerves but I couldn't really relax and just talk to people, so I'm sorry if I seemed quiet !

Rick running his book !

We had a few photos at the door and on the steps that passed a couple of minutes, Rick decided to start running a book on my time, like I needed any more pressure ! A quick kiss and a hug from Gem then as the clock turned seven we were off.......... I don't know quite how exciting this was for spectators as they only see you run about 10 metres before disappearing down a ginnel but thank you so much for coming to see me off.

Colin and me waiting for the off

A View From the Other Side - Rick

2009-07-05T22:08:00.002+01:00

As promised, a look at life through the eyes of the road support by Rick.

A thought crossed my mind as I followed a police car in Keswick, If I get stopped I’m in trouble. Here is the dialog that went through my head:
Officer “Good evening sir are you the owner of this vehicle?”
Me “no it belongs to Simon (Emma, Karl or Pete)”
Officer “Do they have a full name”
Me “I don’t actually know their full name”
Officer “How long have you known them”
Me “I met them in a lay by for 5 minutes”
Officer “Where do you intend to take their car”
Me “I can show you on a map it’s a car park near a slate mine”
Officer “So a person who’s name you do not know, who you have no contact details for allows you to drive their car through the night and leave it in a car park. I’m afraid I don’t believe a word of it and think that you should come down to the station to sort this out.”
Me “Wait I can explain my mates running 70 miles and I need to meet him. Give Bob Graham a ring he knows all about it”
At quarter to seven we waited to see Karl set off on his Bob Graham round. We stood at the top of the steps for a team photo. I have never felt as fat as I did standing amongst this group of runners. Karl set off and as is probably the tradition the road side team went straight for a chippy tea. As we ate our chips we contemplated the task ahead.I felt under real pressure that I did not want to be the one to mess up Karl’s attempt. We had had a couple of planning meetings during which Karl had issued our instructions. It was like a military operation with locations and times to pick up or drop off people and vehicles and details of what is required at each stop.
We drove together to our first pit stop and had time to kill and so went for a walk. Foolishly we walked towards the kennels and disturbed the pack of hounds who alerted most of the lakes to our presence. The first stop went really well with Karl and team on time and all food and drink ready. After hours of waiting the stop seemed to be over in seconds and it was time to pack up and head off to the next pit stop.
This is the first car change of the night Pete’s car was too advanced by far it would not start if the seat belt not fastened and the hand brake was a push button on the dash. I’m glad that I drove this car early on as my sleep deprived mind would not have been able to cope later in the challenge.
Me and Gem then sat in the car park in the centre of Keswick waiting to pick up Bill. Despite malicious rumours I’m not use to sitting in car parks in the early hours waiting to meet a strange man. We all then headed of to the next pit stop at dunmel raise.
Karl had problems and was about an hour late (damned inconsiderate). I was getting slightly anxious and as we watched their lights descending I prepared myself for a Taylor tantrum. I had under estimated his mental strength. He sat down and as I was about to start my deep motivational speech when he simply declared “I’m alright it’s sorted”.
As the next set of runners departed with Karl in the morning light (03;00) Jess summed up their experience on the tops with the beautifully Yorkshire poetic phrase “Fairfield were a reet basturd” before he retired to a bright pink tent for a rub down and sleep.
I now drove my second car of the night to honister pass. It was during this drive that I realised Gem had to keep waiting for me to catch up. She believes the number in a road sign is a minimum you should drive at. I left the car parked up at the youth hostel and we headed for wasdale.
Wasdale had a bad start due to teams doing the 3 peaks challenge. They had an inability to drive their hired minibuses and loudly announced how pleased there were with a time of under 4 hours! The sun was already starting to beat down so we decided that extra water may be required along with sun cream for the next leg. The pit stop went well with all runners looking well despite the heat.
We dove back to Keswick (car number 3) and decided that we just had time for lunch as we had missed breakfast. It’s amazing how good a drink and sandwich can taste when you have not eaten in a while.
It felt a long drive up to the slate mine as fatigue was starting to set in. We unpacked the chairs and decided that we deserved a brew when a shout went up “I can see them.” We promptly panicked and prepared soup, drink, clothes, food and drink for Karl and pacemakers in record time before being told it’s not them. As we had a little time we visited and left an energy bar at the slate memorial to all the competitors that had drowned on the mountain marathon 2009. This was a deeply moving moment that will stay with me for a long time.
I must apologize to all Karl’s runners at this stage as I feel I may have been a little too happy. At home I only drink decaf coffee. This weekend Gem had been making double strength coffee and it gave me a great caffeine hit (I am also naturally happy this is due to my general ignorance of what is going on).
We once again packed the car the smell of wet sweaty running clothes was beginning to gain strength at this stage. We drove down very narrow lanes to the church (I’m not religious but I offered a quick pray as I did not want to have to repeat this weekend too soon) for the change into road shoes for the final few miles. At this point I should state that Gamma’s navigation was flawless and we made it in good time. Please pass on our apologizes to the couple cutting the hedge who failed to realise that Gem could not wait while they finished off the last four meters.
At the church the tiredness really set in combined with the heat. I took a long swig from a water bottle only to discover it contained Karl’s magic rehydration solution. I don’t know if it only tastes good if you are running but it was foul! I think it was because we knew this was the final pit stop and if all went well we had finished, but the wait seemed endless. As I sat in the cool of the church I reflected on the last 19 hours. I felt really good to have been a part of the challenge and was very relieved that we had not messed up. I also thought of all the people involved this included those that helped on training runs prior to the event or who had given advice. I also thought what a great bunch of slightly strange people who are willing to give up their time to help Karl with his challenge. They carried his kit, kept on track with his pace, navigated but most important kept him focused and motivated. I also have a great respect for partners of these runners who allow them the time to enjoy their sport and even provide food and support to them. I really enjoyed meeting you all.
I was laid in my garden with my feet in a paddling pool being fanned and fed Indian snacks when Gem woke me to tell me they were on their way. It was my first ten minutes of sleep since 630 Friday morning and it felt good.
The runners switched into road shoes for the sprint Finnish into town. We drove back to Keswick parked up and waited for the triumphant finish. Karl looked remarkably well as he happily hit the hall door. It was over, job done.
I must thank Gemma I don’t know many people who could cope with spending this long in my company with out resorting to violence. I also admit that your muffins were superior to my banna bread, there I said it.
Karl what else can I say except that I have utmost respect and at the end of the day you don’t run bad for an ex fat lad.

Rick

The Taper !

2009-07-03T23:46:00.006+01:00

I have not posted much over the last couple of weeks regarding my training but I have been busy, not running admittedley as the taper was well underway. On the 16th June I turned 30 and had a wonderful week of celebration. Gem woke me in the morning with a bed full of balloons and a champagne breakfast mmmmmmmm. We then drove north for a fun day in Keswick, not BG recceing for a change, we went out on a rowing boat to St. Herberts Island. When we got there Gem had prepared a birthday pic nic which was lovely, all of my favourite things.

In the evening we went for a meal at Angels in Ribchester which was also very nice, and we all had a great night. We both booked off the first three days of that week so we were only in for two days, I didn't mind then when my mate Richard rang up to see if I could help him with some work on Saturday doing a conservatory base, I did think it was slightly strange as I haven't worked with him for about 4 years but didn't think any more about it. My suspicions were certainly not unfounded though, we went for a couple of pints on the way home for my birthday, allegedly, but Richard did seem to be stalling me slightly, still he played the part well and I had no suspicions. I was expecting Gemma to pick me up to go to her friends party, when Rick turned up, he told me the lads had planned something for me and I needed to put on a blindfold and go with him in his car, I was definitely suspicious now !! We drove, I don't know where, and then arrived at the destination. My blindfold was removed and SURPRISE !

It was a wonderful night and a fantastic surprise, Gemma had done an awesome job of party planning, getting in touch with people and decorations, tables, gazebos etc. absolutely wonderful. Thank you Gem and all those that came to help celebrate my Birthday. I think one of the best bits of the party was my cake, a very apt cake given the upcoming Bob Graham Round.

JOB DONE !!

2009-06-28T16:02:00.000+01:00

Just got back from Keswick and I will get round to writing a full report this week, but just to report that I completed the round last night in 22:48, very very pleased. Big thanks must go to my wife Gemma and Rick for the roadside support, they kept me going and did a stirling job servicing my needs and those of the supporters. Even handling my feet which were not a pretty sight, and my stinky clothes. The three of us were showing signs of sleep depravation last night !

Big thanks to Albert, Colin, Geoff, Pete, Jess, Bill, Simon, Emma, Anthony, Gerry and Steve it was a pleasure to spend the day with you all and I couldn't have done it without you all.

Thanks to everyone else for their best wishes and for coming out to see me along the route, it was a great day. More details to follow.

Feeling Better

2009-06-12T22:32:00.003+01:00

After last weeks sniffles etc. I have felt a lot better this week and have been out for a few 5 mile runs at work on my lunch. I am out on Ian Charters' 55@55 tommorow so looking forward to that, I am running the Honister to Wasdale leg. Will bump into Iain Kelly who is attempting his BG at 7pm from the Moot Hall on the 26th June on a 22hr schedule exactly the same as me !! I think I am now fully sorted for support apart from Leg 5 although I have someone in the pipeline. At the moment it looks like this.

Leg 1 - Keswick to Threlkeld - Geoff Lyons, Jesse Palmer, Albert Sunter & Colin Jones

Leg 2 - Threlkeld to Dunmail - Jesse Palmer, Pete Dennett & Dave Walker

Leg 3 - Dunmail to Wasdale - Pete Dennett, Dave Walker, Simon Cartledge (+1 other) & Duncan Richards (Broad Stand rope man)

Leg 4 - Wasdale to Honister - Bill Williamson, Anthony Fryer & maybe Simon Cartledge (+1 other)?

Leg 5 - Honister to Keswick -Emma Aindow-Gregory & Gerry Dewhurst

I am feeling a lot more confident now my team is together and it is only a matter of agreeing logistics and we should be all systems go. I met with my road support team last night and talked through my needs and concerns and that has put my mind at rest so looking forward it feels good. Another week of gentle runs I think this week with maybe a couple of short runs on the fells but nothing serious.

Just been out in the garden, transplanting vegetable that we had started the other week. I have made some big wooden tubs to plant them in so we are looking forward to home grown; cucumber, broccolli, rocket, lettuce, spinach, peas, beans, carrots, spring onions and some herbs.

Tuesday is a bit of a milestone for me as I turn 30 (AHHH!) so hopefully it will not affect my perfomance too badly being over 30 !

2 weeks and counting.............................

Quiet Week and the start of the taper

2009-06-06T22:58:00.002+01:00

Well its been a quiet week about 20 miles run and 60 miles on the bike with not much ascent, I've had a a couple of courses at work and have felt quite tired this week and had a bit of a sniffle, I know very soft, although I don't think it's the dreaded "man flu" ! I am out in the morning for twenty odd miles on the fells but I think I've done the hard work now really just need to look after myself for the next couple of weeks as I get ever closer to my BGR.

I have been panicking slightly recently and running through the route in my mind whilst I am struggling to get to sleep, I am not really a person to dwell on these things but there are definitely nerves creeping in. I have most of my support sorted, although I am still a bit light on a couple of legs, and I think this is part of the worry, although I am sure by the end of this week I should be sorted, although if anyone is free please don't be shy.

As the big day gets closer I have been getting my stuff together, got my gels from likeys the other day and purchased some clif bars from evans cycles today in Manchester. We went for a look round the Museum of Science and Industry as the weather was crappy and they had an exhibition celebrating the centenary of the first all British flight, although it was quite disappointing really.

Anyway I am going on, hope everyone has a good weekend, looking forward to helping Ian on his 55@55 next weekend.

Successful Bank Holiday Weekend

2009-05-27T16:40:00.008+01:00

I got back last night just after midnight after a long day out on the hill finishing as the last light of the day was disappearing. I had planned originally to camp over and have another day out today, but my bed was calling.

I had been asked if I was available to support a Joss Naylor Challenge being attempted by Ed Swift of HRMI on Saturday, starting at 4am from Pooley Bridge. It was therefore an early start as I left the house at 2am on Saturday morning, en route to meet Ian Charters and John Swift at Patterdale. It wasn't the best sign for conditions on the hill as I was slowed going over Kirkstone Pass in the car, by thick fog, I had to keep my eyes open for stray sheep !!

We were away about 7 mins late as Ed was just finishing getting his stuff together but we made pretty good time despite the conditions, that deteriorated as we progressed down the ridge towards High Street. Ed, as always, was in good spirits and the conversation was light hearted and the miles soon passed, we were up on time as we reached Julie at Kirkstone in the pouring rain. A quick cup of tea and a nice slice of flap jack stoked the fire and we were underway again on the ascent to Red Screes. I was only running as far as Fairfield, and plans were to drop down off St Sunday crag. I decided due to adverse weather that it would be better to get off the tops and down to Grizedale Tarn and run out to Patterdale down the valley. I was back in the car for 11am and drove home, I did have to stop for forty winks at Forton services !!!

Tuesday I met Duncan at Keswick leisure centre at 9am and we drove up to Honister Pass to pick up Rhiannon before driving back to Dunmail to start the run over leg 3 to Wasdale. The day was pretty varied weather wise and we saw sunshine, followed by zero visibility, hail, snow, rain and high winds, all adding up to make an entertaining day. I followed the route from Dunmail over Steell Fell, Calf Crag and on to Sergeant Man and it felt very familiar now, almost like it is programmed into my feet ! The going was soft in places under foot but otherwise not too bad as we crossed to High Raise and continued onto the Langdale Pikes, the group of walkers on top of Harrison Stickle were suprised to hear that my end point for the day was Honister Pass.

Duncan and Rhiannon tried out the route via Stake Pass to Rossett Pike whilst I dropped down and took the ramps up to the ridge, I was taking it fairly easy but still got there abot 10 mins quicker so I think it make sense to stick with the ramps. I picked up the route up Bowfell easily, although I took a dodgy line off Rossett Pike, and we were soon at the top and into some pretty grey skies. On the way over Esk Pike to Great End it started raining, then snowing briefly, and cloud came well down and made the visiblity pretty poor. As we were on the way off Great End on the way to Ill Crag the skys then cleared and it was sunny again, three seasons in about 15mins ! suppose that's the Lakes for you. The top of Scafell Pike was quite busy, as we passed and headed down to Mickeldore and Broad Stand, it felt very greasy and after a few looks at the move we decided to skip it and use the traverse route round to pick up the Foxes Tarn path instead. The cloud was down again and the rain started, as you can see there weren't any great views from the summit of Scafell.

We descended to Wasdale, where Summer had arrived and the valley was bathed in sushine ! From here D&R decided that they would take a more direct route to Honister via Sty Head and I would follow the BG route and meet Duncan when he came back in the car to pick me up, Rhiannon only has a 2 seater so we couldn't all get in this. It seemed strange on my own on this part of the route as I haven't spent that much time around these peaks, an by this time it was raining again and the cloud was well down making route finding interesting but okay. By the time I got to Pillar the skys had cleared, again, and it was a beautiful evening, the setting sun casting long shadows over Wasdale and lighting up Ennerdale like a beacon.

The wind was quite chilling now and I stopped for a moment at the summit shelter on Pillar to change my top and put my hat and gloves on. I decide that I would probably be better to drop down from Black Sail Pass rather than staying high on my own over Kirk Fell and Gable etc.

I followed the coast to coast route (as recommended by Julia Bradbury) to Honister and the last bits of daylight. I still felt to be going well which is a good sign, and left my totals so far this week at 50 miles and 18,127ft of ascent so not a bad start. I'm on nights this week at work but should get a few more miles in.

Fellsman Recovery

2009-05-22T19:02:00.002+01:00

My mileage has been pretty modest for the last couple of weeks, for three days after the Fellsman my ankle was quite swolen and painful so I laid off the runing for a few days. I haven't suffered since and I suspect that it was just the mileage and pounding that caused the swelling and its nothing to worry about.

Running has felt quite sluggish but I have been moving okay, on the bike I am averaging a good speed and it feels a lot easier than running. This week my legs feel back to normal but not quite as light on my feet as I have felt lately. I have a big weekend planned for the next few days which should give me some good mileage, it will proabably be the last of my big weeks as it is getting to 4 weeks before my BG attempt now and the taper must begin.

I am out tommorow pacing for Ed Swift on a JNC as far as Fairfield, Tuesday I am out with Duncan Richards in the lakes running the BG route and part of his 50@50, from Dunmail to Keswick. Then Wednesday I am probably going to get another long run on the route, perhaps finishing the last two legs, or maybe something completely different.

Report to come after the weekend.

3rd Fellsman complete and a PB!

2009-05-11T18:57:00.005+01:00

Fellsman Hike - 61 Miles, 11,000ft Ascent

Very pleased with my result on the Fellsman, I finished in 15hrs 19mins which is 2hrs 24mins faster than my previous best and over 3hrs faster than last year.

It was an early start on Saturday, up at 3:00 for the drive to Threshfield. I arrived at 4:30, half an hour before registration opened, so I spent a bit of time sorting through kit and wandering around to waste a bit of time. I checked in and picked up my bus ticket for the 5:30 shuttle to Ingleton for the dreaded kit check ! The rules are quite precise with the compulsory kit, and it would be a real shame to get this far and be disqualified for not having 4 safety pins in your first aid kit, no danger of that though I had everything I required and was looking forward to my third Fellsman Hike.

I had bumped into an old Fellsman friend, Roger, at the school and we travelled on the bus together, he had grabbed a good spot on some comfy chairs when I came through from kit check so I joined him. We were soon joined my Ian and Pauline as we sorted through kit, discussed routes and applied essential vaseline to those delicate spots !! I also met a few guys from the forum, Stolly, Merrylegs and Britnick which was great to put faces to names, I also saw Iain Kelly and a few people who I know from previous Fellsmans including Jess Palmer and his wife. There was a great air of anticipation in the hall as 9 am drew ever closer and my bladder became ever weaker !

The 382 starters gathered on the field ready for the off as Chris Driver, the organiser, read out an email from Mark Hartell, my main competition was out this year so a chance of a win .............I wish! We were soon off running through the narrow streets of Ingleton and onto the path to Ingleborough, at this point I knew I was running too fast, I could see on my Garmin that the miles were going past too fast, I needed to take it a little easier but waited till the slope reared up before settling into a steady walk, soon I was off Ingleborough, through the Hill Inn checkpoint, flapjack in hand, and in about 10th position at the top of Whernside having averaged 12:30 a mile, I definitely needed to slow down. I passed a couple of familiar faces running back down Whernside and then to the Kingsdale checkpoint. The climbing was feeling pretty easy, even the steep climb up Gregareth passed with not much trouble, and I wondered if I could keep this pace up all the way round.

The wind was well up on to of Gregareth and it was like running into a wall getting to the checkpoint, I slowed down a little along the ridge to Great Coum to get some recovery in before the long descent to Dent via Flinter Gill, I resisted the sausage roll this year and headed off pretty quickly. After a slight detour for a wrong turn on the road (concentrating on eating too much!) I was caught up by a large group including Jim from Gateshead and Ian Kelly, we headed into some bad weather on Blea Moor and after the checkpoint retreated to the safety of the tent at Stonehouse, the rain was battering down and the wind was blowing hard so that it felt as if the rain was being blown straight through every opening in my coat. I was just eating some pasta and Jess came into the tent, I wasn't keen on going back out into the weather but he just said "you coming?" and I followed. We made good time to the top of Great Knoutberry and ram off pretty quick to get out of the wind and hail that had now started, I decided that at Redshaw I was going to put some long trousers on as my legs were cramping with the cold and it was feeling hard work. Jess set off whilst I was putting my Ronhills on and I said I would catch him up, as I headed out of the tent he was well ahead and I wasn't moving as fast as before, in fact I was starting to struggle, I couldn't eat anything as I couldn't swallow I was just chewing food then spitting it out on the floor, this was my lowest point on the whole event and it lasted till the checkpoint at Fleet Moss.

At Fleet Moss I was feeling pretty bad when I arrived, but after some warm rice pudding and some tea with an energy gel mixed in, I felt strong again and ready for the tough crossing of Fleet Moss and Middle Tongue. This part of the route is notorious and it is miles of man swallowing peat bog, I went up to my knees a couple of times but I was moving well and reeling in a group of 4 runners out in front. I thought I may get through Cray prior to grouping but I was 4 mins too late and I was teamed with Mike, Ali, Nigel & Paul, Buckden pike seemed like a breeze and the BG training was starting to show now as I felt stronger, we picked up the fast line I had reccied the other week and were soon down at Park Rash where we picked up two other runners for the ascent of Great Whernside. One of the guys who joined us at Park Rash was Ted Adamski running his 32nd Fellsman, he ran his first Fellsman at 27, the same as me so hopefully I'll still be going as well at his age. We were soon over the top of Great Whernside and down at Capplestone Gate, the route from here follows flashing beacons to Yarnbury, in the past this has seemed to go on forever but it just flew by and we were at Yarnbury and running down through Grassington before I knew it.

A shower and a bowl of chili later I was in my sleeping bag and well away chucking out the Zs I was tired but felt great, like I could have carried on and had plenty more climbing in my legs. I definitely think I went out too fast and could have paced myself better but I am very pleased with my time and it has given me great confidence for the BG.

Thanks to all the organisers and staff on the route they really do make the day enjoyable and create a great atmosphere, a great event and one I will be back for again next year with a new PB to beat !! Photos here including the one of me leading Sarah Rowell at the start !!

A quiet couple of weeks tapering

2009-05-07T22:01:00.002+01:00

Well not done loads for the last week or two, a few runs and walks and a few bike rides to work to keep the engine ticking over in preparation for the Fellsman this Saturday. I've just been taking it easy really making sure I am well prepared for the challenge.
My target this year is to try and run under 15 hours, my previous fastest time on this event is 17hrs 43mins in 2007 but I feel like my preparation this year has been far more substantial than my previous years, so fingers crossed it should all go to plan. Just been packing my stuff tonight ready, all my food is sorted out, there are plenty of refreshment stops en route but I will need to supplement this with things to eat on the move, I have tried to get a good balance. My snacks during the day include nutrigrain chocolate oat bakes, frusli bars, marzipan, salted peanuts, brazil nuts, honey stinger energy gels, mini peparamis and the old favourite jelly babies. I have tried quite a few things in training to eat whilst I am running so this will be a good test of whether they will work on the BG. Plus this will be my first ultra using Nuuns so I will be interested to see what difference they make.
Will post a report on the event next week, fingers crossed for my target time, I'm looking forward to seeing a few familiar faces from the last couple of months on the starting line and a few others from the FRA forums and Blogs that I read.
Weather forecast isn't great for the weekend but fairly mild with showers so I shouldn't suffer with the heat like last year !!

JNC & Keswick to Dunmail

2009-04-24T22:03:00.003+01:00

Weekly Totals - 101.57 Miles (3 Walked, 32 Cycled, 66.57 Run)
23,082 ft of Ascent
Time 21:25:31

I have had a really good consolidation week that has proved to me that my training is starting to work, the weekly totals for this week were mostly completed over two long runs so I am pleased that my fitness is starting to show.

I mentioned last week that I had supported Ian Charters' JNC on Saturday, there is a detailed report of the legs on Ian's Blog with some photos. I had an early start on Saturday getting up and on the road at 3am to make sure I made it Pooley Bridge to start at 5am. I was about half an hour early which gave me chance to sort out my kit for the day, and prepare myself for what was going to be a long day. I had planned to run a couple of legs from Dunmail Raise to Greendale Bridge with Ian ,but due to a couple of people dropping out in the week, he was short of support on leg 1. So I planned to run from Pooley Bridge to Sty Head Tarn, round about 35 miles and 12,000 ft of ascent so a good days training all round.

Leaving High Raise

We set off in the dark but didn't really need our torches for long as the clear morning soon brightened and we could see clearly. Gary, Ian and myself met Iain on top of Arthurs Pike and we set off along the ridge on our way along the summits leading to High Street and then to Thornthwaite Beacon and on to Stony Cove Pike and Pike How before dropping to Kirkstone Pass and the first road crossing. It was really cold and we didn't hang around for long, the first leg had been quite quick as the schedule was fairly tight but it felt good and I was moving well.

After picking up Phil and Dave at Kirkstone we started the slog up Red Screes before crossing Hart Crag and then to Fairfield, from the summit we could see for miles with the clear sunny day. From here the terrain was pretty familiar down from Fairfield and over Seat Sandal then to Dumail Raise and the second road crossing. I changed into shorts and changed my shoes for the next leg to Wasdale and teamed up with Duncan Richards and Rhiannon.

The pull up Steel Fell doesn't get much easier but we were soon at the top and on our way, we were all suffering climbing up onto High Raise as we were out of the breeze and I felt pretty grim for a while. By the time we got to Rossett Pike, after crossing Stake Pass, I was feeling okay again and ran well all the way to Sty Head(where I met Joss Naylor!!) and then down to Wasdale Head.

Quick Drink at Wasdale Head

I was still feeling a bit stiff on Monday but a quick run at lunch time loosened me up a bit, by the time I had cycled into work on Tuesday morning I was feeling alright again. Got a puncture on the way in on Tuesday and managed to snap my pump so not the best day.

Friday I met up with Duncan Richards again at Dunmail Raise, and Bill, who I had seen briefly on Saturday at Sty Head, we drove to Threlkeld to pick up Helen, who was also joining us, before driving to Keswick. It was warm as we set off but as we gained height there was a strong wind that was battering us about a bit, we took the right line off Skiddaw and down over Hare Crag before climbing Great Calva, Bill showed me an excellent line off here, much better than the line I had used the other week and pretty simple to follow. After crossing the river we headed directly over Mungrisdale Common and the under the scree on Atkinson Pike and to the summit of Blencathra, a slightly different line than I have previously used but I think one I will use in the future. From the summit Bill showed me Yiannis' descent route, quite steep in places and rocky but I think it would be a good alternative should Halls Fell be wet, although I want to try Doddick as well.

Skiddaw

Bill and Helen where heading back to Keswick from here but Duncan and I had planned to do two legs today. I was moving pretty well so Duncan decided he would move a bit slower behind me and maybe miss out Fairfield and Seat Sandal. The wind made it hard work along the ridge but apart from that it was a beautiful day and the sun came out very bright, if not a little hazy. I was a bit tight for time so I skipped Fairfield and headed straight over Seat Sandal ( I had already done it once this week!)

Great Calva

Another 25 miles in the bag and I felt great, should have some photos as well to add to the blog. Next week I am planning a recce of leg 5 or maybe 4 with some runs and bike rides during the week to keep the mileage up. Only a couple of weeks to the Fellsman now and I am feeling quite confident that I should beat my previous times on this event.

Flat Week & Ian's JNC

2009-04-19T21:17:00.005+01:00

Weekly Totals - 76.4 Miles (23 Run, 20.5 Walked & 32.9 Cycled) 1061 ft of Ascent
Time - 10:56:15

Approaching Keasgill Head on Ian Charters' JNC

Due to my upcoming Saturday on Ian Charters' Joss Naylor Challenge I have had a week of relatively modest mileage with more walking than usual and not much climbing. Saturday we had a great walk in the sun round Croston by the river, I took advantage of the continued fine weather and ran the route we had walked the previous day, on Sunday morning, followd by a walk to the woods where we have seen some deer. Monday Gem and I had another walk across the moss to Rufford and back by the canal and the river.

Tuesday, and the long sunny weekend came to an end, back to work, I ran my usual 5 mile route around Balderstone. I cycled into work on Wednesday against a strong wind, this was very hard, my average speed was about 2 mph slower than usual over this distance and I was glad to get to work! Cycyling home was great though, I was flying with the wind on my back and averaged over 20 mph. Thursday I had a rest day, then Friday had a good run with Ali round the Balderstone route, feeling very light on my feet and ready for a long day out Saturday.

I won't steal Ian's thunder as I'm sure he will post a report on his blog but I had a very enjoyable run on Saturday from Pooley Bridge to Wasdale Head 35 miles and 12,000ft of ascent for next weeks totals. Iain who joined us from Arthurs Pike to Fairfield has posted some photos. A beautiful sun rise was the start to a great sunny day, the pace on a 14hr schedule is pretty stiff and I did have a couple of lows but overall it was great, good company and road support and just to top it off I met Joss Naylor at Sty Head, what a day. Cheers Ian

Fellsman Recce

2009-04-13T19:34:00.003+01:00

Weekly Totals - 37.5 Miles, 5282ft of Ascent, in 07:00:59

I had a steady start to the week, on an early morning run round Winter Hill and the surrounding tops getting in 13.5 miles and 2500ft of ascent. Another morning of nice weather with good running underfoot, I felt pretty strong and really enjoyed the running, just a little stiffness from Friday on Skiddaw but overall I was running well. Bumped into Mark from Horwich so had a chat with him on the way off Two Lads and then we went our separate ways as he headed home and I headed up the pike and back over Winter Hill for the second time of the morning.
The rest of the week I was struggling, lunch time meetings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday meant I couldn't run at lunch time at work. I had booked off Thursday though to go and recce part of the Fellsman route. The race is in a months time, I have run it twice before but I have usually been teamed up by this point and have always had someone to follow when I have felt spent, which after 40+ miles I usually am! I am aiming for a faster time this year, and although I will still be subject to grouping I expect, it would be nice just to know where I am going exactly.
I parked at Kettlewell on the National Trust car park and after getting my stuff together I headed off to Buckden Pike via the Buckden Lead Mines. The weather was certainly not as good as I have been experiencing of late, and the rain was being blown pretty hard into my face, reminiscent of the first year I ran the Fellsman. I ran as far as the Capplestone Gate checkpoint and then turned back for Kettlewell, I had forgotten just how boggy the terrain is over the top of Buckden Pike, but I feel a lot more confident now on the descent route from Great Whernside which was my main concern.
Finished the week off with a walk around Croston with Gem.
Four big weeks coming up so I have taken it quite easy this week, just longer steady runs with a good bit of climbing.
Next Saturday I am pacing for Ian Charters on his Joss Naylor Challenge originally I was going to do two legs, but due to a couple of his support team dropping out I am now on for three legs from Pooley Bridge to Sty Head, this should be a good training day though. Two long Fridays planned for the next two weeks after this and then the Fellsman weekend, so some high mileage weeks coming up.

CHANGE OF DATE

2009-04-08T17:49:00.003+01:00

IMPORTANT!!
I have had a bit of a hiccup in my organisation, hopefully one that will still enable me to complete the round with enough support. One of my road side support team has had to cancel for the 5/6th June, we have also been having trouble sorting accomodation for the Saturday night due to the beer festival in Keswick. I have had to make the decision to move my attempt to the 26/27th June, hopefully this is slightly better as there are no major races this weekend as far as I can see in the diary and I have booked somewhere to get my head down when I finish.
I will be posting my schedule soon and on the look out for some support on the legs, I have been in touch with quite a few people but if anyone wants to join the team and has a preffered leg please let me know. I am on a 23hr clockwise schedule starting at 19:00 from the Moot Hall.

Cheers

Bob Graham Round Route

2009-04-08T17:41:00.003+01:00

Found this whilst browsing the net, it shows the route pretty well but the distance does seem a little short. The elevation picture is pretty interesting though.

Bob Graham Round (approx)
Find more Runs in Keswick, United Kingdom

Leg 1 And a Big Blue Sky

2009-04-03T20:24:00.007+01:00

Weekly Totals - 49.1 Miles (9.1 walked), 8268ft of Ascent in 09:43:26

A return to beautiful sunshine at the end of the week for a run round leg 1 on Friday with Ali & Toby(Ali's Dog). We made an early start and met up across the road from work making our way up in Ali's car to Keswick, it was very foggy all the way up and I was slightly concerned that we were not going to get any great views, but this was not to be the case.

We didn't make the best start as I wasn't sure where to pick up the footpath to the bridge over the river Greta in Keswick, so we wasted about ten minutes checking notes and maps but we were soon on the way, I will know for next time !! I discovered on the way up Latrigg that I was developing a bit of a wet hip, my bladder had punctured at some point (that's my water bladder in my rucksack!) and was leaking down my leg, a quick but of patching up with a plaster and we were soon on the way again, not a good start so far.

Ali had done the Skiddaw race last year so was more than familiar with the route to the summit, not that it is hard to miss! We climbed out of the fog in the valley and started catching up the walkers who had made an early start from the car park at Latrigg, and we were soon on the summit of Skiddaw, it was really warm and I was down to just my shorts as even my t-shirt seemed to be too hot. We had made good progress and were well within schedule time.

I made a slight error on the way down though and missed the fence crossing to Hare Crag and crossed lower down, I realised my error but we continued down to the Skiddaw House track and back tracked to pick up the path to Great Calva. We stopped for a quick bite to eat at the top of Great Calva, Toby ate about half of Ali's food as well as his biscuits, we had a quick chat to a runner out for a long day, and then headed down to the River Caldew.

I tried the route following the fence, but the heather was really high in places, and was hard going, it was very dry and you could feel it scratching your legs as you tried to run through it, we both ended up in the river Caldew looking like Freddy Kruger had tried to rugby tackle us, I am going to have to figure out a better way down here, I could see quite a few lines of trods coming off the top as I looked back, just none in the direction we went! Poor Toby had to be carried part of the way, the heather was a least twice or three times the height of the average spaniel and he's only a little lad, it was quite funny though watching him bounce through the heather!

We carried on up over Mungrisdale common and onto the last climb of the day, the summit ridge of Blencathra, from here all that was left was to head down Halls Fell to Threlkeld, it was very dry and we made good time dropping down the ridge, although when I come back I want four legs, Toby was making it look far too easy and did scare us a little as he is very inquisitive looking over edges!

We followed the old railway line back to Keswick, a really pleasant path I discovered last year when Gem and I were camping at Dale Bottom. 18 miles and just over 5800' of ascent in 4hrs 25mins not too bad, we even managed a couple of 8:30 miles on the way back to Keswick.

The rest of the week has just been the usual lunch time running, walking in the evening with Gem round Croston, taking advantage of the clocks changing, and as mentioned in my previous post, the Liver Hill race Tuesday might instead of the track session. My legs felt quite tired at the beginning of Friday's run but towards the end I felt pretty strong. I think I'll be out for about 20miles on Sunday morning, and then cycling and running through the week, not sure about my plans for next Friday.

I tried out my new shoes on Friday as well, I have bought them, mainly to replace my Montrail Highlanders which were fantastic shoes but the uppers have seen better days, they are not bad for short training runs, but I needed something for the Fellsman. I have invested in some Adidas Kanadia TR shoes and found them to be great, good grip, comfortable and secure. I will be giving them the ultimate testing on the Fellsman but up to now I am very pleased with them.

Liver Hill Race

2009-04-01T11:05:00.002+01:00

Didn't post for last week as I was off doing the decorating and didn't get much running done, shock to the system. But we did decorate like crazy and finished the whole house in 4 days. My totals were 10 miles cycled and 11 miles run, but I'm back to normal this week.

Ran the Liver Hill Race 5m/800' last night, organised by Rossendale Harriers from Marl Pitts, a free race with a free cream egg at the end as well as a bonus. It was great conditions and a nice start to the summer evening races after the clocks changed. The moor on the top was pretty muddy and boggy in places and I sunk up to my knee a couple of times but apart from this it was okay. It was my first race of the year due to my training schedule for my BG but thouroughly enjoyed it, probably went out a bit quick as I was in the lead at one point!! The race climbs up a track then along a footpath to the open moor, along a well marked course and through quite a few muddy sections with good gloopy mud that sapped the energy from my legs and over quite a few stiles. At the turn at the top of Liver Hill I was feeling pretty burnt out, but the sight of Ali hot on my heals spurred me on. The race returns back the way you have just come so there is a bit of congestion at the stiles but I got over most of them with not much delay, I reeled in a couple of people on the way back in and by the last 1/2 mile I was running well and had a sprint finish in me to take over a couple more to finish 34th in 40:36 out of a field of 149, a cracking race and I would recommend it especially for free!

Here Comes the Sun

2009-03-20T21:43:00.007Z

Weekly Totals - 173.45 Miles (44.04 Run, 129.41 Cycled)
Ascent - 8809.1 ft (4011 ft Run, 4798.1 ft Cycled)
Time - 14:54:45

Phew ! What a week, yesterday was officially the last day of winter and I think spring has definitely arrived. I feel incredibly lucky to have been out this last week enjoying the weather and scenery that Lancashire has to offer (who needs the Lakes!!)

Sunday I enjoyed a lie in for a change, as Gem was out for lunch, so I headed to Rivington for about 11:30. I parked at Anglezarke and took my usual route over to Rivington before ascending the Pike, it was definitely a busy day round here for walkers, cyclists and motor bikes so I headed off in the direction of Two Lads and over Winter Hill. I had planned to do about 20 miles so I ran down to Belmont, crossed the Reservoir and ran down the Witton Weavers way before turning off in the direction of Darwen Tower. The weather was amazing and I ran most of the way in a vest and shorts, and the views back over Winter Hill were amazing with the sun breaking through the clouds.

The ground over to Darwen Tower was pretty wet and boggy in places but I made good progress, and was soon at the Tower and back in a crowd. I beat a hasty retreat and after running through the woods at Tockholes started the ascent to Great Hill.

I was starting to feel the distance a bit by now, luckily I had a gel in my bum bag and this seemed to perk me up enough. I was soon back at the car, 21 miles under my belt in about 3hrs 20 with just over 3000ft of ascent so I felt pretty good.

Monday I could still feel the miles in my legs after cycling into work so I opted for slightly shorter route of 3.5 miles at lunch time but didn't actually run that bad. I even felt like a couple of extra miles, via Houghton on the way home on the bike.

Tuesday I was in a meeting at lunch time so I missed my run, but I had planned that I was eventually going to get round to going to the track session at Horwich. It was a bit of a shock to the system but I ran okay. The plan was to run 3 sets of 7 laps (1.5 miles) at 6 min mile pace with 90 secs rest, I managed about 6:20 pace so lost out on a bit of recovery but was fairly pleased I managed to run at this pace rather than hanging back and running at 7 min mile pace.

Wednesday I cycled to work again, ran 5 miles at lunch, and to get an extra couple of miles in, I cycled back via Houghton and Brindle on the way home in the sunshine. Thursday I ran 5 miles at lunch again and then as the evening was so fine, we had a walk across the Moss to the Robin Hood and got some dinner.

Friday I had decided that as I was at work in the morning, and I had already had 40+ miles of running in, I would go for a long bike ride from work through the Trough of Bowland. It was a gorgeous afternoon as I headed out from work, through Ribchester and over Jeffrey Hill. I carried on through Whitewell, Dunsop Bridge and then up the last climb over the water shed and down the fast descent. Excellent ! 54 miles of pure fun (I think!)

It has been a great week for training, I wish I had felt this fit when I ran the London Marathon last year, next week I am off work so should get a few miles of running in, perhaps a few early mornings on the fells.

Well it would be a shame just to do it for myself !

2009-03-18T21:18:00.002Z

I decided that as I was going to all the effort of training for a Bob Graham Round that I might as well make a bit of money for those less fortunate than myself.

I have started a Just Giving page and I'm raising money for Sue Ryder Care, this is our partner charity at work this year so every penny I raise could be potentially doubled for the charity. Please feel free to follow the link and give generously.

Many thanks

Running by the Ribble

2009-03-14T10:56:00.002Z

Weekly Totals - Miles - 31.5 Run, 30 Cycled

I have had a bit of an easier week this week, as the legs were starting to feel the ascent they have done over the last couple of weeks, and I am just feeling a little bit of pain around my knees. We spent the weekend in Kendal for Chris's birthday at the Castle Green Hotel so I had a good realxing time, I swam a few lengths of the pool whilst we were there but thats about as energetic as I got. Had a good sweat in the steam room as well.

I had the Monday morning syndrome and didn't spring out of bed so missed the bike ride to work, but ran well at lunchtime around my usual 5 mile loop from work. Tuesday I ran the 5 miles in the opposite direction (variety is the spice of life after all !), and had a good climbing session at West View, although I appear to have gained a stiff neck since ? must be my age !

Wednesday I had a meeting over lunch time so missed my run but had a bit of a walk at night, delivering parish newsletters for the scouts. I cycled into work as well, a fresh morning with a great sun rise, its quite a good time to be up at the moment with all the sights and sounds of spring starting to show. Its also nice to be in the light after the dark winter mornings.

Thursday I ran 5 miles at lunch time (for a change), I managed to get a lift to work on Friday morning so I could run home. Its a while since I ran more than about 8 miles on the road so it was a bit of a shock to the system running 16.5 miles, I thought I was going to get wet on the way home, as the sky was really grey, so I put my new coat on that I bought last weekend (bargain) to road test it. After about 4 miles the sky cleared a bit so I put it in my ruck sack, but it felt good to run in.

My run home takes a different route than my bike home, by the River Ribble as far as Lower Penwortham and then through Lostock Hall and Leyland, I was pretty please as I managed to average 7:32 a mile over this distance. I'm not going to break any records but it's the sort of pace I was training at for the Marathon last year and it felt okay, my heart rate averaged about 80% so it was a pretty good threshold run. To top the day off I won £10 playing poker.

Next week I don't have anything in particular planned, I'm back in the lakes the week after, so It'll probably just be a week of cycling and running. Sunday I'll no doubt be on the fells early doors to try and get about 20 miles in and then I think I should get chance to get out on the fells again Friday afternoon. First evening race of the year in a couple of weeks and my first of the year at Liver Hill, its not a race I've done before but its free so should be fun.

I've also been asked to join a team for the Ribble Way Challenge in June, but its two weeks after my BG attempt so I have said I'll be a reserve. Looks like a good route though at about 100km.

Leg 3 Recce back in the SNOW !!!

2009-03-06T22:33:00.003Z

Weekly Totals - Miles - 89.7 (60 cycled) Ascent - 7153 ft Time - 10:48:43

I started the week well with an early morning run on Sunday from Rivington, over the Pike, Two Lads, Winter Hill and Great Hill returning by White Coppice and by the resevoir to Rivington. I was running really well and ran 13.2 miles in just over 2 hrs with 2000ft+ of ascent so I wasn't hanging around either but it felt good and I was ready for a good week of training.

I was back on the bike on Monday morning and it was surprisingly mild, it seems a lot easier when you are not in darkness all the way, and I find I am only doing a third of my route in the dark now the lighter mornings have come, which is great. I could feel the weekend in my legs but didn't feel too bad, although when running at lunch time with Ali my legs felt pretty heavy. Cycling home was hard work and by the time I got home I was well and truly knackered. I had a shower and had my dinner but I was not feeling well. I felt as if I had flu or something, I was shivering but felt red hot I had an early night and a lemsip, and after sweating profuseley for half the night, I felt a lot better in the morning.

I took this as a sign to take a couple of days rest so I didn't run Tuesday or Wednesday but felt revitaised on Thursday on the bike to work and back so it obviously worked.

Top of the climb onto the ridge to Steel Fell

Friday I met up with a few guys from the FRA forum at Great Langdale, for a recce of leg 3 from Dunmail as far as Langdale. It was nice to see the fells covered in snow again and there were blue skys as we approached the Lakes, looking like it was going to make a good day, I wasn't dissapointed.

Climb towards Sergeant Man

The initial climb from Dunmail is a bit sudden and doesn't give you much of a warm up, I'm sure on the BG leg1 & 2 will be enough of a warm up! We made pretty good time onto Steel Fell within schedule time, and we headed on to Calf Crag. The cloud had come down pretty low which made navigation quite difficult and we did have a bit of confusion finding the top of Calf Crag, think I need to go back on a clear day and just remeber some features.

Daz, Dan & Kate on Sergeant Man

From Calf Crag we didn't really meet any more problems, and made steady progress over Sergeant Man, High Raise, Thunacar Knott, Harrison Stickle and Pike o Stickle. We were on a dash back for Emma to make the school run so we dropped down from the top of the beck below Rossett Pike and headed back to the car. Excellent day out, the snow was pretty deep in places and did stop me in my tracks a couple of times, but overall I felt strong especially on the ascents.

Looking back where we had come from

Don't know if I'll get any more runs in the snow but today finished clear and sunny and definitely had a spring like feel, almost t-shirt weather (for fell runners!)

Back on Leg 2, Running Well

2009-02-28T09:50:00.004Z

Helvellyn Summit

Weekly Totals - Miles - 41.2 Ascent - 8264 ft Time - 8:03:32

I have had a pretty good week and I think my easier week last week has paid dividends.

Only running this week as I have had a couple of things to do after work and I didn't get my lazy backside out of bed early enough on Monday to use the bike. I'll be back on it this coming week though.

I started the week with a gentle-ish run round the moss from Croston on Saturday morning and down by the river, it was surprisingly dry on the paths and was an enjoyable flat run to start the day. Sunday morning saw me making an early start up Winter Hill running a few loops round the Pike and Two Lads and over Winter Hill getting a fair bit of climbing in and a good few miles. Felt slightly sluggish for the first couple of miles but soon settled into a steady pace, maybe a couple to many pints of Guinness on Saturday night !!

Usual plan of lunch time runs at work this week, just missed Thursday as I had a meeting that dragged on, but with a long run planned for Friday it was probably wise. I managed 33:29 round my 5 mile run at work so was pleased with that, fastest time so far this year, and I felt as if I wasn't giving it that much it just felt good, so I think the training is starting to pay off. Missed the track session on Tuesday and decided to eat lots of pancakes instead (you've got to put some carbs back in you know!)

Friday was an excellent day, I met Duncan Richards at Dunmail at 8:30 and we left his car there and drove up to Threlkeld in mine. I was keen to get back on leg 2 and run it after my day walking up there in the snow the other week, just to see what my pace was like and what it felt like to get round in schedule time. Duncan did his BG 25 years ago but is planning a return to form for a 50 at 50 this year. Me made good time up Clough Head and were moving well across the Dodds, it was good that there was low cloud, as I am planning this leg in the dark so it meant I had to remember features on the ground from the other week, and I didn't do so bad and didn't have to look at the map much, only to confirm I was right !

We saw a few walkers on top of Helvellyn and noticed there is still a bit of ice near the edges as well as a few dodgy looking cornices, Duncan decided to head down from Dollywaggon and skip Fairfield and head straight over Seat Sandal so I did these on my own but made good time up Fairfield and then back to Seat Sandal and met him down at the car. It took us 4hrs 15 mins which is about 11mins faster than my 23hr schedule, I need to look back at my splits properly but the ones I have looked at I was about spot on for time between peaks according to the schedule. I felt really good all day and wish I felt like this every time I ran, but it was a thoroughly enjoyable day and I think Duncan had a pretty good time too.

Grizedale Tarn through the cloud

I feel pretty good today after yesterdays run, and should be out again in the morning from Rivington, may try a bit further this week. Apart from that plans for next week are another Friday out with some guys off the FRA forum running the Dunmail to Wasdale leg as far as Bowfell then dropping into Langdale maybe via Crinkle Crags, so should be a good day out.

I've also been considering an original round later in the year with more significance for turning 30 this year, it will probably be with minimal support compared to my BG but I am still doing the work to figure out length and whether it is possible. I'll keep the Blog updated as and when I can decide a possible route.

Running off Seat Sandal

Its Official

2009-02-25T11:29:00.003Z

Well, my attempt is now official, I posted my letter to Brian Covell to register my attempt last night.

Stocked up on Pancakes as well last night think I had about 6 they were very nice though. I have given up beer, crisps, nuts, chocolate & bisuits for Lent so it will probably do my training good as well.

Run planned for Friday with Duncan from Kendal, over leg 2 again but with two cars so we can run the whole leg. Should be good.

Steady Week

2009-02-21T18:46:00.002Z

Weekly Totals - 82.34 Miles (60.78 cycled)
Ascent - 3099ft
Time - 6:33:01

I missed the Sunday long run as I decided to have a rest to see if I could get rid of my cold. It seemed to do the trick so I decided to use the bike a couple of times this week.

Monday I cycled in to work, 5 mile run at lunch time and then cycled home the slightly longer route as the wind was bad and the longer route stays out of the wind a bit more, not easy though with the wind in your face.

Tuesday I was on a course with work all day so I didn't get to run at lunch time. Wednesday ran 3.5 miles at lunch time, Thursday I did 5 miles and Friday 7 miles and a bit. Friday's run took me up the hill towards Mellor, I haven't run up here for a while, I had forgotten just how long it goes on for, but it was fun!

I have plans to do a higher mileage this week, and some more work on the bike, I am starting to fell a lot better than I did at the start of the year and my pace is increasing, and by weight decreasing every week so everything is going in the right direction.

I have a long run planned for Friday, not sure where yet but maybe leg 1 and a bit of leg 2. If anyone is at a loose end feel free to give me a bell and you can tag along. It looks as though there are a few of us running on the 6th March from Dunmail to Langdale so I'm looking forward to that, should hopefully get over 5o miles of running for the next two weeks so may be ready for another easy week after that !

Leg 2 Recce

2009-02-14T23:50:00.004Z

Weekly Totals - 41.4 miles (28 Walked)
Ascent - 6416 Ft
Time - 10:29:42

Good week of training just suffering with a cold now at the end of the week that I will hopefully shift soon. Last Sunday I had a walk in the morning with the Scouts around Croston, then went up Winter Hill in the afternoon with Gem to have a walk in the snow and a snow ball fight !! There was plenty of snow and from what I've heard the conditions were ideal for the race, the ground seemed pretty well frozen which would definitely help with the boggy ground round there. Through the week I had my usual lunch time runs and a walk one night round Croston at a good pace. I did a hill session one lunch time and got some funny looks from the lunch time walkers as I ran up and down the hill to the river near work, not normal behaviour for them.

Friday I headed up to the Lakes early to recce leg 2 of the BG, according to forecasts the tops were quite icy and required ice axe and crampons in places, I decided rather than risking it to wear my winter boots and go with my kit, if conditions were good then I could always bag a gully on Helvellyn as well. I can move okay in my big boots but I definitely can't run but I managed a steady pace over the Dodds.

I went as far as Raise before turning round, conditions had been pretty good, in fact it was fairly mild and the snow and ice were noticeably softer than earlier in the day. I had been okay moving across most of the ground apart from some pretty thick ice near the summit of Stybarrow Dodd that resulted in me cutting some steps. I think all the extra weight probably enhanced the training I'm sure but I probably could have got away with my fell running shoes. Still had a great day though, saw a couple of other runners and a few walkers. As promised on the forecast the clouds came in later on and a bit of navigation was needed just to ensure I took the right way back.

Summit of Clough Head looking towards Great Dodd

Clough Head Summit

Raise

Looking towards High Street and the clouds coming in

More running planned this week, hopefully I'll get rid of this cold by the end of the weekend.

Flexi Afternoon in the Trough

2009-02-06T16:56:00.007Z

Weekly Totals - Walking-5 miles; Running 29 miles
Ascent - 4603 ft
6hrs 25 mins

After the adventure on Seat Sandal on Sunday we got home safely through the road works that seem to have been permanently in place on the M6 for about the last ten years !
Monday dawned snowy and cold so I decided against the bike, a decision I made a few times this week, the roads weren't actually that bad but I know how easy it is to slip on the skinny tyres and I didn't fancy any tarmac rashes this week.

I ran at lunch with Ali round our Balderstone run from work in a much more respectable time than I have been managing recently, and again on Tuesday in reverse. A meeting at work held me up from getting to the track but I will get there soon. According to Ian's Blog it sounds like a good session, I also like the 300m. I decided given the recent weather that the Bowland Fells were looking pretty nice and snow covered, and it doesn't happen that often so I booked Thursday afternoon off work. Climbed okay at west view with Gem & Rick on Tuesday night.

Thursday was one of those days that are few and far between, I had the fells completely to myself and they were fantastic. There wasn't loads of snow but what there was gave a winter coat to the fells. I parked at Fell Foot and headed off up Parlick into the crisp winter's afternoon, the air temperature was cold but there was hardly a breath of wind, perfect.

Climbing up Parlick

Top of Parlick

Following the ridge up to Fairsnape Fell there were wonderful views over to Pendle Hill, also shrouded in a winter coat of snow, and the south Lake District fells. I took the opportunity on the summit to take a few photos and enjoy the atmosphere.

Fairsnape Trig Point

Summit Shelter on Fairsnape

The benefits of the cold weather were great, the peat bogs across to Holme House Fell were well frozen so apart from the odd cracking sounds as I was crossing them they were pretty dry and my feet remained pretty dry and toasty. In places where the snow had drifted it was entertainig climbing up the fresh snow onto the peat hags.

After following the fence to Holme House Fell I followed the ridge down and then dropped off towards Tom Warings Well, and then from the stream climbed up to the top of White Moss and then followed the fence to the trig point at Hawthornthwaite Fell Top.

This is a hill I've never visited before and it is a strange place, obviously when the trig point was set on its foundations the ground was a lot higher than it is now, over the years the weather has done its worst and left an unusual sight at the summit, probably the only Bowland summit that involves climbing to get to the top !

That's what I call erosion !

I turned back from here and headed back to Holme House Fell via the head of Langden Brook, it was starting to feel quite surreal, the sky had turned a grey pink and a dim light was cast over the fells as I skirted round Fairsnape and dropped off the steep descent of Parlick and back to the car, not before I scared the life out of a walker as I leapt past them on the Parlick descent !

The Trough in all its Winter glory

Really glad I took advantage of the snow and had the afternoon, and the fells to myself. I finished off today with 4.5 miles at lunch time near work.

I have a walk planned with the scouts on Sunday morning round Croston for a few hours in training for the Bowlander hike then I think Gem and I are going out in the afternoon. Hopefully I might be able to get out on the bike next week before a Friday in the lakes on a recce of leg 1 or 2.

Wintry Day on Seat Sandal

2009-02-03T10:27:00.005Z

On Saturday Gem and I had an afternoon in Kirkby Lonsdale and noticed on the way home that the lakeland fells were looking like they had a good covering of snow.

So we decided on a plan to go and recce some of the BG route from Dunmail Raise. Although I am currently planing a clockwise round I thought I would head up Seat Sandal and down to Grizedale Tarn to take a look at the route and also where you leave the bags for the "sprint" up Fairifield. The initial plan was to do this and then have a wander over Nethermost Pike, Dollywaggon Pike and Hellvellyn then drop down to Wythburn and wander back to Dunmail.

The snow was pretty easy going on the route up to the summit but by the time we got to the top it was pretty windy and bleak, we had a quick brew and something to eat behind the wall out of the wind and then packed up and moved off down the back of Seat Sandal towards the col.

This side had obviously been scoured by the wind the snow was frozen and icy in places making the going quite difficult and pretty slippy. We actually ended up using an ice axe each and down climbing the steeper slopes by moving backwards and kicking steps. By the time we got down the weather was getting worse and it had started snowing now, as well as the wind. We made the decision to wander back to the top of Dunmail Beck and head back down to the car, the Gingerbread shop was calling.

Got some good wintry pics for the blog and about 1500' feet of climbing so not an alright day. Will have to see how long the snow lasts but it could make some fun recce trips.

First Full Week On The Blog

2009-01-30T14:00:00.004Z

Weekly Totals : Walking-5 miles; Cycling-31 miles; Running-25 miles; Approx - 4000ft;

Approx - 9hrs 30mins

Well, it has been a relatively busy week but not just with training and a few things have managed to upset the plan, just life I guess but still, it can get frustrating.

Sunday didn't quite go to plan, I forgot that I had promised to take the scouts for a walk from Waddecar, but this was okay and I was teaching map reading so used it as an excuse to do some micro nav and just remind myself I can navigate ! Monday went perfectly to plan and I cycled into work on my road bike, it is 15.5 miles each way so it gives me plenty of chance to get warm and I get to work really awake and ready for the day ! 5 mile run at lunch round Balderstone in just over 35 mins, that Christmas weight is still showing, I was running it in 31-33 last year. Cycled it home in 52 mins, took me 56 on the way in, I have done it in 45 mins but not too bad.

Tuesday I planned to go to the track but due to the traffic at the road works near work it took me 45 mins to get home (only seven mins quicker than the bike!) so I had to give it a miss, think I'll have to start going straight from work. Had a good climb at West View with Gem and Rick though so that was good.

Wednesday I should have been on the bike again but the morning was so foggy, it's bad enough being seen on a clear morning so I decided to give it a miss. Didn't run till I got home but did a good 7.5 mile tempo session. 10 min warm up, 3 miles at 7:15/mile, 2 min jog, 1 mile@6:30/mile pace, 2 min jog, 1 mile@6:30/mile pace then 15 minute warm down. I didn't finish the second mile at 6:30 pace my legs had gone but I did try honest ! It was when I got home though that I realised my Garmin wouldn't download to the computer, still not sorted, and I haven't heard anything from Garmin.

Winter Hill Friday
Just got home from a 12.5 mile bog trot round Winter Hill and Rivington with Ali and his two dogs, Toby and Kobi. As you can see from the pictures the conditions were pretty murky and the ground was really waterlogged. Both us and the dogs got stuck a few times but luckily not permanantly like this sheep.

We ran up from the top barn and across the moor to Two Lads and over to Counting Hill we then ran over towards Belmont and then back up to the summit of Winter Hill, down towards the road then back up over the summit of Winter Hill and to Noon Hill. We headed back over Rivington Pike and then down to Rivington and back to the top barn to pick up the cars.

The dogs loved it and they were well and truly filthy by the time we finished, they definitely made good training partners. It is really wet in this area at the moment and I don't envy anyone on the race next weekend. A good day well spent, rest tommorow then long run Sunday. I'll update soon.

Garmin Issues

2009-01-29T00:19:00.003Z

I am having serious issues with my Forerunner now. I went for a tempo run tonight using a workout I had set up on Training Centre, when I got back and tried to conect the watch it won't work. I have updated the software on my computer and the forerunner but still no joy even after a master reset of the watch. I can't use Sports Tracks either because I have got a Mac. Anybody got any words of wisdom ? This will totally cock up my recording of my training, gutted. Hopefully should here back from the email I sent to Garmin. Looks like its back to Runstoppable or Map my Run for a bit !

21/11/08 Yorkshire Three Peaks

2009-01-27T15:53:00.010Z

On the 21st Nov Ali Mac and I did the Yorkshire Three Peaks run. I had promised Ali that I would take him round the route in the summer but we never got round to doing it. So, as a final blast before 2008 was out and I flew off to Cuba we picked a free Friday and headed up to Horton in Ribblesdale. We made a couple of drops to stash some water at the Hill Inn and at Ribblehead on the way up, we then parked up, filled up the bags with Jelly Babies and sausage rolls and went to clock in at the Pen-Y-Ghent cafe . Couldn't believe it when we got there and the cafe was closed, probably not their most popular time of year !!

Pen-Y-Ghent

It was looking like a great day, the sun was out and a chill in the air, perfect conditions for a nice day out. We were steady up Pen-Y-Ghent and were soon up to the short scramble to the summit. It was here that we noticed the impending dark clouds heading in our direction looking like they might be carrying some snow. The clouds were further away than they look on the photo
Ali Mac & Me on the summit Pen-Y-Ghent (No.1)

We chucked down a handful of Jelly Babies and a bit of flapjack and then headed down in the direction of Hull Pot Beck and Ribblehead. This area I know from experience is usually pretty wet and resembles a big sponge, the big field at the 2008 three peaks race had obviously impacted a fair bit on the route, with it being flagged, as the route was obvious all the way across here. Considering the amount of rain we had during the summer it was pretty dry really and we managed to get across mostly unscathed. The temperature dropped considerably on the way across and we did get a flurry of snow which added to the fun (does this make it a winter round ?)

We decided to have a quick bite to eat after the road section at Ribblehead and ducked into Batty Wife Cave to get out of the snow.

Batty Wife Cave

After some strange looks from some passing walkers we topped up the water bladders and chucked in some nuun tablets , which I now swear by for long distance running hydration. Due to the race route being over private land and the walkers route going the long way round we decided to use the alternative footpath up the steep front of Whernside. I haven't used this path before but apart from it being incredibly steep up the last climb to the summit its pretty good and direct.

Looking down from the climb up Whernside to the Ribblehead Viaduct

We arrived on the summit ridge feeling like we'd done a bit but had to look fresh because there were two walkers sat having lunch at the summit. This was pretty handy as we didn't need to use the self timer !

The summit of Whernside(2) The biggest one in the bag

(Think Ali was feeling the cold more than me !)

We descended the path to Chapel-Le-Dale and picked up our second water cache from the Hill Inn before we hot footed across the limestone pavements to the final climb up the steep steps to the summit plateau of Ingleborough. The wind had got up quite a bit by now and it had got pretty cold so we didn't hang around too long on the top, just long enough to have a chat to three lads who were also doing the three peaks, but over three days. Notice that we had wrapped up a bit more by this point (Ali two hats !)

Approaching Ingleborough from Chapel-le-Dale

Summit of Ingleborough(3) All downhill from here

All that was left now was the run back to Horton in Ribblesdale, mostly downhill on a rocky path with a few puddles to hurdle. We were soon at the railway crossing and heading back to the car over the river. We had got round in just over five and a half hours at a steady pace, a very enjoyable day. I decided we had earnt a cup of tea and a chip butty at Inglesport. I haven't entered the 2009 race but have my sights set on the 2010 race to try and break 4 hours. Maybe !

Review of 2008

2009-01-23T21:38:00.004Z

Just for interest I thought I would post a bit of a run down of last years ups and downs. Some races, some great days out and other snippets of stuff.

My main aim for the first part of the year was the London Marathon. Most Sunday mornings were spent out on the road with Gem riding alongside me on the bike to keep me company which was awfully nice of her. We had a week in Majorca at the end of February, the main plan was to climb but I used it as an opportunity to do some running in the warm mornings, even some hilly stuff round Formentor. The Marathon day was great, the atmosphere was fantastic and it carries you round. I came in at 3hrs 43 not too bad but up to 18 miles was on pace for a 3:15, maybe next time. Gem and I both applied this year but neither of us got a place.

I carried on the distance work but spent a bit more time on the fells in preparation for the Fellsman on the second weekend in May. I wish I had done a bit more climbing as I found it pretty hard, it didn't help that the weather was baking hot for May and was up to about 26 deg in the valley. I think I suffered from the early stages of heat stroke and it took me about 2 hours of steady going and lots of water to cool down and rehydrate before I felt alright again. I was three quarters of an hour slower than the previous year but even Mark Hartell was slower this year (not that it stopped him from winning). I finished in 18hrs 33mins in 57th place out of 177 finishers, a further 122 didn't finish and retired on the course.

I joined Horwich RMI Harriers in 2008 and started training down at the track with them on a Tuesday night and doing the hill sessions on a Thursday. This saw a big improvement in my race performances throughout the summer. I haven't been down to the club for a couple of months but I will be heading down there again early this year.

I did quite a few of the local races in the FRA calendar this summer, mostly the mid week ones Great Hameldon Hill (BM), Stanhill (BS), Paddy's Pole (AS), Hendersons End (BS), Aggie's Staircase (AS) and Harrock Hill 3&4 (BS). I saw a gradual improvement through the summer and was starting to make the top third of the field in these races.

I spent a few days in the lakes having a go at the Lakeland Traverse, this was abandoned due to bad weather and high winds and we took a low level route instead, but is a score still to settle. I also supported Ian Charters on his 55 at 55 attempt on the Wasdale to Dunmail leg of the route, this gave me a bit of a taste for the BG. I then set my sights on the OMM and through the FRA forums contacted Anthony Fryer as a potential partner, we had a few runs round Todmorden and decided to team up for the event. This was my first mountain marathon but Anthony has done quite a few and won his class at the Rab mountain marathon in 2008. We decided to enter the elite class and then spent most of our time trying to get the weight down in our sacks. I think in the end Anthony was under 5kg and I was just under 6kg before we made a last minute decision to change tents, this added approximately 0.5kg each. We had a very challenging day on the hill on the first day and finished in about 6hrs and it had all gone well until we found out the camping field had flooded and we had to head back over to Seathwaite Farm. To cut a long story short we spent the night on the floor of a barn and after the BBC got hold of the story I even made the news !

My last race of the year was the Full Tour of Pendle in November and I managed to get round 6 mins quicker than the previous year so was very pleased with this. I also added to my shed inventory this year and bought a road bike from Ribble Cycles in July for commuting to work, the ride is 15.5 miles each way and I try to do it at least twice a week. The cycling seems to have helped my fitness and it fits into my day pretty well. Towards the end of the year I have given it a miss due to ice on the roads and bad weather but should be back on it come February.

I let my training slip a bit over Christmas, and Gem and I also were on holiday in Cuba in December so I probably had about 4 slack weeks really so a bit of fitness has been lost and needs catching up again.

New Blog First Post

2009-01-23T14:49:00.002Z

Well this is all new to me but welcome to my Blog. I will be updating it every week to keep a log of my training and aspirations for 2009. My goal this year is to complete a Bob Graham Round a circuit of 42 Lakeland peaks in 24 Hours. It is approximately 68 Miles and 27,000ft of ascent in total so I have a lot of work to do yet but hopefully this blog will help me stick to my training plan.

I have been working night shift this week so haven't found it that easy to get out. I am back working days on Monday so training starts in earnest then.

I went for a 15 mile ride on my bike on Monday from my house to Hunter Hill near Parbold, it was fairly eventful as half way round it started snowing, don't think my racing bike is really designed for snow! Tuesday I had a run to Bretherton and back to Croston 4.5 miles and I ran 8 miles on Wednesday. I have scheduled a long run on Sunday so I'll update soon.