Still no response regarding this. I do have it on video. Last Sunday, 6pm ITV. Is the memory jogged?
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
What a Day - Awesome Offas
Setting off at 6.30am yesterday to the village of Cilcain at the foot of the Clwydian hills, we couldn't help feeling that the cloudless sky was too good to last all day. But last it did and a wonderful day out it was. Open to Offas a Merseystride LDWA event has something for all with a 14m 21m and 30m on 'offa'. Two years ago this event fell on a certain member of the Saturday Squad's 60th birthday and so we opted for the 21m route to be back to celebrate the birthday boy's event at Limbrick. So this was our first go at the 'big one' and what a roller coaster it turned out to be.
A fantastic route - but a bit of a toughie with over 7,000ft of climbing (7,075 to be precise). The views across the valley and to the Glyders and Snowdon were amazing. The welcome sunshine did make some of the climbs a bit hard going, but the organisers made good provision, leaving additional water at strategic points on the route as well as the very well provisioned checkpoints. We managed to keep the fluid levels topped up, although one of our compatriots, for a time, completely blew up as he had decided only to carry a cup and therefore was restricted to taking on fluid at the checkpoints, rather than filling a bottle for the climbs. He finally drifted in over an hour behind us, in a pretty sorry state. It was that sort of day really.
Offa's Dyke Path is one of twelve designated National Trails and it is the only national trail to follow a man-made feature. Built by Offa, King of Mercia in 757 to 796 AD the dyke formed the boundary between England & Wales, running 182 miles from Prestatyn in the north to Sedbury - from sea to shining sea. We only followed a small part of it of course, but the full walk is another item for the wishlist and for when more time is available.
I was pleased with my time, just breaking the 7 hour barrier by recording 6hrs 57. The last ten miles of the route brings all three routes back together and we passed quite a few folk from the other distances. Having changed, caught up with everyone's news and had a good meal at the end we made our way back to the car for the journey home. Three guys who had completed the 21m route were talking loudly and just as they were about to set off I heard one of them say ..... 'them 30-milers, though, it's a different league! I had to pinch myself to remind me that I was one of 'them 30-milers'. That kick boxing's amazing - have I mentioned it?
NLN
Friday, September 19, 2008
Saturday's Run (Good grief, the arrangements are taking longer than the run will!)
With our first leg runner injured, the arrangements are being changed slightly. Run now commences at the Bottom Barn at 8:30. By road to Hordern Stoops (about 8:55?), then all major right turns, passing Wrights Arms (as was) perhaps about 9:15 (Mat?).
Walker Fold, Bobs Smithy (the landlady was confused when I asked her one day if there should be an apostrophe in that ~ mind you, she's easily confused. She once told me that if she took a dud £20 note it really cost her £40, because not only was there the beer that she didn't get paid for, plus the change [fair enough] but she was also left holding the dud note so she was another £20 down. I tried to explain but words eventually failed me).
Then Horwich and the Millstone back to the start. If fit and well at that point and there is sufficient time we may take in a bit of off-road.
I am hopeful that these will be the final arrangements.
EtH
With our first leg runner injured, the arrangements are being changed slightly. Run now commences at the Bottom Barn at 8:30. By road to Hordern Stoops (about 8:55?), then all major right turns, passing Wrights Arms (as was) perhaps about 9:15 (Mat?).
Walker Fold, Bobs Smithy (the landlady was confused when I asked her one day if there should be an apostrophe in that ~ mind you, she's easily confused. She once told me that if she took a dud £20 note it really cost her £40, because not only was there the beer that she didn't get paid for, plus the change [fair enough] but she was also left holding the dud note so she was another £20 down. I tried to explain but words eventually failed me).
Then Horwich and the Millstone back to the start. If fit and well at that point and there is sufficient time we may take in a bit of off-road.
I am hopeful that these will be the final arrangements.
EtH
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Saturday's Run
Very sorry but not going to be able to make it now. Managed to strain hip flexor muscle on run home from work last night and was reduced to walk/run (mostly walk) for last 2 miles. The emergency bus fund didn't get troubled as no bus passed, so had to make do with a bar of chocolate instead. I had a similar problem last year and ran through it (gently), but I don't think that a 18m road run will be that forgiving.
So I'm going to rest for a couple of days, think swimming should be ok. Ironically was due to pick up new trainers on Saturday afternoon, and was trying to decide at what point to start breaking them in. Guess I don't have worry too much about that now.
Once again, sorry to upset the plans. Will keep you posted on progress.
A Grumpy TF
Very sorry but not going to be able to make it now. Managed to strain hip flexor muscle on run home from work last night and was reduced to walk/run (mostly walk) for last 2 miles. The emergency bus fund didn't get troubled as no bus passed, so had to make do with a bar of chocolate instead. I had a similar problem last year and ran through it (gently), but I don't think that a 18m road run will be that forgiving.
So I'm going to rest for a couple of days, think swimming should be ok. Ironically was due to pick up new trainers on Saturday afternoon, and was trying to decide at what point to start breaking them in. Guess I don't have worry too much about that now.
Once again, sorry to upset the plans. Will keep you posted on progress.
A Grumpy TF
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Saturday's Run ~ Taking Shape
The old Bolton 40 course used this loop, but instead of shortcutting along Lever Park Avenue, used (in reverse) the embankment to the Millstone, past Headless Cross, the United Utilities Centre at Tan Pits and then Horrobin Lane into Rivi village. Three laps made 40 miles, so one lap should be 13.3 ish (it's an accountancy word).
Apart from the extra distance, this route has the added advantage of avoiding the winding extension of Lever Park Avenue and lends itself to a bit of an effort on the pavement along the embankment.
Come on YJ, nod at this, be at Duncan Street for 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, and I'll see you both at the Millstone at about 8:20. Anyone else fancy a road run?
Bossy, moi?
EtR
The old Bolton 40 course used this loop, but instead of shortcutting along Lever Park Avenue, used (in reverse) the embankment to the Millstone, past Headless Cross, the United Utilities Centre at Tan Pits and then Horrobin Lane into Rivi village. Three laps made 40 miles, so one lap should be 13.3 ish (it's an accountancy word).
Apart from the extra distance, this route has the added advantage of avoiding the winding extension of Lever Park Avenue and lends itself to a bit of an effort on the pavement along the embankment.
Come on YJ, nod at this, be at Duncan Street for 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, and I'll see you both at the Millstone at about 8:20. Anyone else fancy a road run?
Bossy, moi?
EtR
Saturday's Run
I'm happy to go along with EtW(U)'s suggestion. I can make it to meet up with YJ at the Thurs UP anytime from 8.00am, which should mean we'll be at the lower barn approx 25mins later.
I remapped my route and it turns out that Saturday's run will be 18.5m for me (an extra 0.5m, yippee!). Unfortunately though, however hard I tried I couldn't get the loop from Bob Smithy to be much more than 12.5miles. The mapping site produced my route profile so I've copied it onto here with details of relevant points along the way. EtW(U) is right about the long climb from the lower barn, the reverse route produces a lot shorter climb from Belmont to Horden Stoops (highest point).
TF 
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
My Humble Suggestion...
...is that, going clockwise, TF runs from home as early as she is comfortable with, meets YJ in Horwich at the Thursday UP and continues to the Bottom Barn to pick me up. This gives us that wonderful long ascent all the way from Rivi Village to Hordern Stoops. We subsequently peel off to go home at the appropriate points when we have completed our laps.
Just needs an estimate from TF as to when she will get to Horwich and to the Barn, and suggestions as to whether we take in the Millstone, in which case I'd meet you there instead of at the Barn and whether we're likely to do the extra bits NE of Belmont ~ suggest not at this stage, as TF will already be doing quite a bit extra, coming out from home, YJ may still be suffering and I'm a wimp anyway ~ but we can leave the final decision until the day
Over and out.
EtW
...is that, going clockwise, TF runs from home as early as she is comfortable with, meets YJ in Horwich at the Thursday UP and continues to the Bottom Barn to pick me up. This gives us that wonderful long ascent all the way from Rivi Village to Hordern Stoops. We subsequently peel off to go home at the appropriate points when we have completed our laps.
Just needs an estimate from TF as to when she will get to Horwich and to the Barn, and suggestions as to whether we take in the Millstone, in which case I'd meet you there instead of at the Barn and whether we're likely to do the extra bits NE of Belmont ~ suggest not at this stage, as TF will already be doing quite a bit extra, coming out from home, YJ may still be suffering and I'm a wimp anyway ~ but we can leave the final decision until the day
Over and out.
EtW
Bossy – moi?!
Back from SUNNY France and the threat of Rickets has been averted for the time-being, but I’m now officially ‘rubbish’ at the Wii. Tried to explain that I hadn’t had much time to practice and get my ‘eye’ in but that didn’t cut it with the jubilant 9 and 7 year old nephews. Think the 4 year old thought he had a good chance of beating Aunty Julie too, but thankfully bedtime intervened.
Some possible options for Saturday (assuming my description of 13m route correct)
For a clockwise route. TF to run to Lower Barn and collect Swift Bros and then leave them to run section Bob Smithy to Lower Barn.
For an anti-clockwise route. Swift Bros to run from Lower Barn and collect TF at Bob Smithy. TF to run section Lower Barn to Bob Smithy.
Either of these meet with approval? Any other possibilities? Either of these options would mean I could be environmentally friendly and leave my car at home. If I know the Swift Bros start time, I can arrange my arrival accordingly.
TF
Back from SUNNY France and the threat of Rickets has been averted for the time-being, but I’m now officially ‘rubbish’ at the Wii. Tried to explain that I hadn’t had much time to practice and get my ‘eye’ in but that didn’t cut it with the jubilant 9 and 7 year old nephews. Think the 4 year old thought he had a good chance of beating Aunty Julie too, but thankfully bedtime intervened.
Some possible options for Saturday (assuming my description of 13m route correct)
For a clockwise route. TF to run to Lower Barn and collect Swift Bros and then leave them to run section Bob Smithy to Lower Barn.
For an anti-clockwise route. Swift Bros to run from Lower Barn and collect TF at Bob Smithy. TF to run section Lower Barn to Bob Smithy.
Either of these meet with approval? Any other possibilities? Either of these options would mean I could be environmentally friendly and leave my car at home. If I know the Swift Bros start time, I can arrange my arrival accordingly.
TF
While the Langdale Marathon was down on my list to be nothing more then a slow training run in preparation for the Snowdonia race it was still a major disappointment and setback to the build-up for the big event.
A combination of factors nearly prevented me from starting but not wanting did-not-start to become a way of life a last minute decision took me to Langdale for a race to be run the reverse direction as in previous years.
Running on empty from the word go took me to be 13 mile mark in 2. 08 at which there was barely enough energy left to walk to he car. If recovery allows I'll be out for a slow (probably very slow) road run on Saturday. Are there any plans? Just name a time and a place.
Congratulations to T'Yorkie who had an excellent run.
A combination of factors nearly prevented me from starting but not wanting did-not-start to become a way of life a last minute decision took me to Langdale for a race to be run the reverse direction as in previous years.
Running on empty from the word go took me to be 13 mile mark in 2. 08 at which there was barely enough energy left to walk to he car. If recovery allows I'll be out for a slow (probably very slow) road run on Saturday. Are there any plans? Just name a time and a place.
Congratulations to T'Yorkie who had an excellent run.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Saturday
Not sure if anyone would have bee out on the hill this Sat anyway, but I'm off to Wales for an LDWA event 30 miles from Cilcain Village Hall (GR SJ176652) (just inside N Wales. The route climbs the Clwydian Hills to follow the Offa's Dyke Path along the ridge and then back through delightfully scenic route. Very friendly marshals from Mersey Strider with tea & toast at the start and a meal at the end. Quite a bit of climbing, so won't be fast time!!
See you at T&T on 26th if not before
NLN
Not sure if anyone would have bee out on the hill this Sat anyway, but I'm off to Wales for an LDWA event 30 miles from Cilcain Village Hall (GR SJ176652) (just inside N Wales. The route climbs the Clwydian Hills to follow the Offa's Dyke Path along the ridge and then back through delightfully scenic route. Very friendly marshals from Mersey Strider with tea & toast at the start and a meal at the end. Quite a bit of climbing, so won't be fast time!!
See you at T&T on 26th if not before
NLN
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Langdale, 14th Sept
Both JtY and I were up at the New Dungeon Ghyll today for the Langdale Full and Half Marathon - JtY entered for the full and I for the half. My plan was to do the first three miles with John to keep my pace sensible with a a target of 1:50 to 2 hours in mind. However, John advised that he'd nearly not turned up due to recent ailments and lack of training - I presume that means under rather than over 100mpw. So his target was 4hrs 30.
Started off well at the back, taking over 20 seconds to pass the start line, so that my first mile was 10:41 - a bit slow for a flattish mile when 8:30 to 9:00 average was needed. Anyway threaded my way through and worked on the early climbs and gradually pulled it back to get on target. Still not at all happy with my climbing but in the end my official time was 1:53:49 which may well be a PW - I think I did something like that when my knee gave way after 9 miles at Bridlington Half, some 19 years ago, but considering the climbs and the fact that I've not done a half marathon for over 10 years, I have to be happy. Also after so many races of counting the numbers behind me on one or two hands (or no hands), to finish 199th of 446 finishers (20th V50 of 36) sounds much more impressive. Shame I couldn't have found an extra 10 minutes improvement as it would have got me 5th V50.
Only 36 minutes behind the first Vet50 but then everyone was at least four minutes behind Paul Muller (so I would still only be 2nd Horwich 52 year old!) Others that we know were Paul Boardman, 26th in 1:32:24 and Andy Stavely, 9th in 1:26:37.
Having finished and found Julie, Diane & her boyfriend, Neal, and got a drink, I went back to the race route so I could cheer John as he approached the end of his first lap. John looked fresh and was well inside a 4:30 schedule but decided to retire as he felt he was struggling and didn't want to damage his preparation for Snowdonia. I'm sure he will be back flying in a few days.
Darwen Tower V Cartridge Hill
Having often sat outside the Royal Oak at Riley Green and admired the fine view of the Darwen Moors massif, I was pleased when NLN agreed yesterday to visit Cartridge Hill, which I believed to be the highest point on that moor. Various cursory looks at the map had previously suggested that Cartridge is higher than the tower site, but I had never checked it out.
We approached the hill via the Pike, Two Lads, Winter Hill, the Ramp, Belmont, Bucket Dog Farm, the Witton Weavers Way and a number of barbed wire fences.
The top, when we got there (or indeed, probably, always) was unremarkable; no cairn, just a flat area, so we walked about a bit (like you do when you're near one of the poles) to be sure we'd covered the summit.
We returned via Spittlers and a little used route that NLN insisted she knew (but she really only knew the first bit), and back at the barn agreed that it had been a good morning out.
A proper look at an old one inch map this morning revealed that Cartridge Hill (GR 671 199) is 1,317 ft, and whilst I could find no spot height for Darwen Tower, it lies very close to the 1,200 ft contour, suggesting that the former is a good 100 ft higher than the latter ~ not a lot of people know that.
If you've gone metric, I suppose you'd call it 30 metres
EtR
Having often sat outside the Royal Oak at Riley Green and admired the fine view of the Darwen Moors massif, I was pleased when NLN agreed yesterday to visit Cartridge Hill, which I believed to be the highest point on that moor. Various cursory looks at the map had previously suggested that Cartridge is higher than the tower site, but I had never checked it out.
We approached the hill via the Pike, Two Lads, Winter Hill, the Ramp, Belmont, Bucket Dog Farm, the Witton Weavers Way and a number of barbed wire fences.
The top, when we got there (or indeed, probably, always) was unremarkable; no cairn, just a flat area, so we walked about a bit (like you do when you're near one of the poles) to be sure we'd covered the summit.
We returned via Spittlers and a little used route that NLN insisted she knew (but she really only knew the first bit), and back at the barn agreed that it had been a good morning out.
A proper look at an old one inch map this morning revealed that Cartridge Hill (GR 671 199) is 1,317 ft, and whilst I could find no spot height for Darwen Tower, it lies very close to the 1,200 ft contour, suggesting that the former is a good 100 ft higher than the latter ~ not a lot of people know that.
If you've gone metric, I suppose you'd call it 30 metres
EtR
Friday, September 12, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Langdale
Seem to have lost the ability to post a comment as it would be easier just to enter a response to JtY in that I shall see him at Langdale at noon or sometime before and hopefully finish somewhat earlier than J ... well I'm only doing the half. I'll be missing on Thursday 11th as I shall be hitting a 40mm sphere over a net a few times.
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Exterminator 16m/4050ft
My last fell race (sniff,sniff) before Snowdonia Marathon. This race completed my series of four long races in the Peak District, one a month since June. Although Belper RR is stretching that a bit, but part of the route made it onto the OS Map OL24.
Of the four, this was the one that I had the least route info about. All I had to go on was the grid references for the check-points and a brief discussion on last years’ FRA forum regarding possible alternative routes from the penultimate (8th) check-point. I’d done some recceing, and could get from point to point, but wasn’t certain of the optimum route.
Thankfully today turned out to be one of the few days this summer when visibility on the hills (for the duration of my race) was good. Early on the locals helped with a few better route choices. By the 5th check-point (2.5hrs in) I was on my own though. The only sighting I had of any other runners was a group of three huddled round a map at the 8th cp. Now given that by this stage I wasn’t going at a blistering pace, none of them seemed in a hurry to follow me.
I made it back to the finish just as they were starting the prize-giving. There were a few spots of rain at this point, so I’ll let them off for not waiting. I managed to get round in about 4hr 10mins (last years’ winner managed 2hr9mins). The drive home was in some of the most horrendous rain I had ever driven in. Very grateful it hadn’t arrived earlier in the day!
I’m off to the South of France next week to top up my Vit D levels. So not out thurs/sat.
TF
My last fell race (sniff,sniff) before Snowdonia Marathon. This race completed my series of four long races in the Peak District, one a month since June. Although Belper RR is stretching that a bit, but part of the route made it onto the OS Map OL24.
Of the four, this was the one that I had the least route info about. All I had to go on was the grid references for the check-points and a brief discussion on last years’ FRA forum regarding possible alternative routes from the penultimate (8th) check-point. I’d done some recceing, and could get from point to point, but wasn’t certain of the optimum route.
Thankfully today turned out to be one of the few days this summer when visibility on the hills (for the duration of my race) was good. Early on the locals helped with a few better route choices. By the 5th check-point (2.5hrs in) I was on my own though. The only sighting I had of any other runners was a group of three huddled round a map at the 8th cp. Now given that by this stage I wasn’t going at a blistering pace, none of them seemed in a hurry to follow me.
I made it back to the finish just as they were starting the prize-giving. There were a few spots of rain at this point, so I’ll let them off for not waiting. I managed to get round in about 4hr 10mins (last years’ winner managed 2hr9mins). The drive home was in some of the most horrendous rain I had ever driven in. Very grateful it hadn’t arrived earlier in the day!
I’m off to the South of France next week to top up my Vit D levels. So not out thurs/sat.
TF
Signing In
No exciting expeditions in the Lakes to report on, just three pleasingly brisk runs up Irton Pike, each one faster than the last, and all several minutes quicker than in early July. Is this the result of fewer miles and therefore being better rested, or is it a result of my new magic recovery drink of skimmed milk? Only time will tell.
Buttock (right) still sore but, surprisingly, improving during the runs.
Equinox do at the TaT now confirmed for Friday 26th.
Will be out UT'sUP's Thursday 11th and Saturday 13th.
Understand that I will be roadrunning on Saturday 20th.
"You are through to the voicemail of Roadrunner. Unfortunately I can't take your call at the moment, please leave a message after the beep beep, beep beep!"
EtR
No exciting expeditions in the Lakes to report on, just three pleasingly brisk runs up Irton Pike, each one faster than the last, and all several minutes quicker than in early July. Is this the result of fewer miles and therefore being better rested, or is it a result of my new magic recovery drink of skimmed milk? Only time will tell.
Buttock (right) still sore but, surprisingly, improving during the runs.
Equinox do at the TaT now confirmed for Friday 26th.
Will be out UT'sUP's Thursday 11th and Saturday 13th.
Understand that I will be roadrunning on Saturday 20th.
"You are through to the voicemail of Roadrunner. Unfortunately I can't take your call at the moment, please leave a message after the beep beep, beep beep!"
EtR
Saturday, September 06, 2008
I have just got back from holiday and am now picking up the threads of normal life. Training initially went according to plan, a 16-mile run with Sally being the longest (she continued to complete 20 miles in preparation for the New Forest marathon, her first, on the 21st Sept). This was followed by some shorter runs with Eden on the Isle of Portland, including some dramatic cliff top views from the coastal path. It can be so exciting running without a map in a strange area! At this point I was doing more running than usual on holiday and after we moved to north Cornwall a run along the Camel Trail from Padstow indicated that all was going well for the forthcoming Langdale Marathon.
It was not to last however. While sat in a St Merryn pub devouring an enormous carvery the first signs a a sore throat were manifested. Two days, and two sleepless nights, later it was a full blown throat infection that was getting worse by the hour. That put an end to the running and resulted in returning home a day earlier than planned but not without an 11-hour drive back from Cornwall in Friday's monsoon and its associated flooding. Bumper to bumper from Exeter to Preston is not a journey I would like to repeat.
And so it was back home to find that FSS had to terminate his 55 at 55 with all the hard work done (surely given good luck with the weather he should succeed next time) and that the squad has been very active in my absence.
Immediate plans are to get back into training (I know its too late) for next Sunday's Langdale Marathon. It was a late decision to take part, mainly as a long training run, and I am reluctant to sacrifice my entry fee. How I feel over the next few days will determine whether I race or not. Given that I have a shortage of long runs in recent weeks I cannot hope for anything better that getting close to last year's time of four and a half hours or even keeping up with some of the slower half marathoneers on the first lap.
After that the Saturday runs should be:
Sept 20th: One 13-mile lap of the Bolton 40 course
Sept 27th: Resting for Macclesfied half
Oct 4th: Extended lap of Bolton 40 course (about 17 miles)
Oct 11th: Double lap of Bolton 40 course (about 26 miles)
Oct 18th: Mustn't get too tired for the Joss Naylor dinner.
I am open to suggestions for place and start times for any of these Saturday runs though early starts would be preferred.
It was not to last however. While sat in a St Merryn pub devouring an enormous carvery the first signs a a sore throat were manifested. Two days, and two sleepless nights, later it was a full blown throat infection that was getting worse by the hour. That put an end to the running and resulted in returning home a day earlier than planned but not without an 11-hour drive back from Cornwall in Friday's monsoon and its associated flooding. Bumper to bumper from Exeter to Preston is not a journey I would like to repeat.
And so it was back home to find that FSS had to terminate his 55 at 55 with all the hard work done (surely given good luck with the weather he should succeed next time) and that the squad has been very active in my absence.
Immediate plans are to get back into training (I know its too late) for next Sunday's Langdale Marathon. It was a late decision to take part, mainly as a long training run, and I am reluctant to sacrifice my entry fee. How I feel over the next few days will determine whether I race or not. Given that I have a shortage of long runs in recent weeks I cannot hope for anything better that getting close to last year's time of four and a half hours or even keeping up with some of the slower half marathoneers on the first lap.
After that the Saturday runs should be:
Sept 20th: One 13-mile lap of the Bolton 40 course
Sept 27th: Resting for Macclesfied half
Oct 4th: Extended lap of Bolton 40 course (about 17 miles)
Oct 11th: Double lap of Bolton 40 course (about 26 miles)
Oct 18th: Mustn't get too tired for the Joss Naylor dinner.
I am open to suggestions for place and start times for any of these Saturday runs though early starts would be preferred.
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Road Running & Marathon Preparation
To answer YJ’s question about road runs, I've got road runs pencilled in for 20th Sept (18-20m), 27th Sept (10-13m, Macc H-M 28th Sept) & last long run on 4th Oct (18-20m) coughs/colds/injuries permitting.
To date I've been using the road circuit of Winter Hill as part of route. So starting from home I've gone along Beaumont Rd - Victoria Rd - Old Kiln Lane - Chorley Old Rd (Bob Smithy Pub). Down Chorley Old Road through Horwich, onto Lever Park Ave to Rivington - Sheep House Lane - Belmont. I turn off Belmont road onto Scout Rd and continue to Chorley Old Rd (Bob Smithy Pub) and back onto Old Kiln Lane and retraced my steps to home. This works out at 18m.
The bit where I join Chorley Old Rd and then return to it is 13m. Is this the 13m loop you refer to YJ? I don't think I could manage 2 x 13m at your pace but could probably manage 1 x 13m! If this is the correct loop, do you have a preference to clockwise or anticlockwise? We could arrange a suitable meeting point along the route. I remember last year that me and Nicole did part of a similar road run with you all before the Marathon, but think it was a fortnight before the main event. I’ll be ‘resting’ by then and only looking to do 10-13m at the most.
TF
To answer YJ’s question about road runs, I've got road runs pencilled in for 20th Sept (18-20m), 27th Sept (10-13m, Macc H-M 28th Sept) & last long run on 4th Oct (18-20m) coughs/colds/injuries permitting.
To date I've been using the road circuit of Winter Hill as part of route. So starting from home I've gone along Beaumont Rd - Victoria Rd - Old Kiln Lane - Chorley Old Rd (Bob Smithy Pub). Down Chorley Old Road through Horwich, onto Lever Park Ave to Rivington - Sheep House Lane - Belmont. I turn off Belmont road onto Scout Rd and continue to Chorley Old Rd (Bob Smithy Pub) and back onto Old Kiln Lane and retraced my steps to home. This works out at 18m.
The bit where I join Chorley Old Rd and then return to it is 13m. Is this the 13m loop you refer to YJ? I don't think I could manage 2 x 13m at your pace but could probably manage 1 x 13m! If this is the correct loop, do you have a preference to clockwise or anticlockwise? We could arrange a suitable meeting point along the route. I remember last year that me and Nicole did part of a similar road run with you all before the Marathon, but think it was a fortnight before the main event. I’ll be ‘resting’ by then and only looking to do 10-13m at the most.
TF
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Saturday 23rd May 2009
Put this date in your diary. Unless there are any major players (you know who you are) who are not available, this will be the date of my Joss attempt.
Knowing how much everyone enjoys these outings, I thought that the more notice folk get, the more time they would have to savour the anticipation.
Initial thoughts are merely to go for a sub 18 hour schedule, probably 17 1/2, starting at 4:00 am and finishing before 10:00 pm. This should make best use of available daylight and not surprise my bowels too much. I'll book the cottage which can act as a crash pad for anyone staying for a beer or two afterwards.
Serious training starts on New Years Day.
EtR
Put this date in your diary. Unless there are any major players (you know who you are) who are not available, this will be the date of my Joss attempt.
Knowing how much everyone enjoys these outings, I thought that the more notice folk get, the more time they would have to savour the anticipation.
Initial thoughts are merely to go for a sub 18 hour schedule, probably 17 1/2, starting at 4:00 am and finishing before 10:00 pm. This should make best use of available daylight and not surprise my bowels too much. I'll book the cottage which can act as a crash pad for anyone staying for a beer or two afterwards.
Serious training starts on New Years Day.
EtR
Monday, September 01, 2008
Langdale Half Marathon
I've entered my first half marathon in I don't know how many years. I know Ed has completed the double half before - must remember to stop running after one lap. Has anyone else entered? I suspect Paul Muller will be there, finishing 40 minutes in front of me.
Planned to do the Skew Bridge last Saturday afternoon but it got a bit late when I set off, so I cut through Adlington. It was agony running so far on the roads.
Hopefully the Downhill Race results will not be published in full - a pw.
World record for wet 100 metres?
I don't suppose anyone recorded the athletics on BBC2 yesterday. Joanne seems to have provided us with a few hours of Channel Five instead. Saw an amazing run by Asafa Powell where he managed to run a tenth of a second faster than he did in the Olympic Final - in pouring rain. Plus 3000 metre runners at a pace faster than we manage for 100!
If anyone did, grateful if I could borrow or copy - just in case we got on the screen!
The Final Leg
Just fo finish off from Ed's post. Ian began to lose time after leaving Dunmail, we were expecting a 9.30-10.00 arrival at Threlkeld, so Julie Keith and I adjourned to the Horse and Farrier. On return to the cars Paul and Ros Murray had just arrived. A phone call from Rae Pritchard (navigator) told us that time was slipping away and final arrival was about 11.00-ish. Ian was utterly exhausted and at Threlkeld after 51 peaks, 23 hours, 62 miles and 25,000 feet he decided to call a halt to proceedings.
After packing up with Keith, I drove to Ings and then felt pretty fatigued so we pulled into the Great Outdoors car park and slept for a couple of hours before continuing the journey home, finally getting to bed about 5.30.
Thank you all for your interest and support - I hope the tea and refreshments contributed to the social side of the proceedings and that it was an enjoyable day out for everyone - runners and supporters alike.
Ian's in good shape and already thinking about next year (scary!) so let's see how the recovery period goes - I can't help feeling it won't last long.
NLN
Just fo finish off from Ed's post. Ian began to lose time after leaving Dunmail, we were expecting a 9.30-10.00 arrival at Threlkeld, so Julie Keith and I adjourned to the Horse and Farrier. On return to the cars Paul and Ros Murray had just arrived. A phone call from Rae Pritchard (navigator) told us that time was slipping away and final arrival was about 11.00-ish. Ian was utterly exhausted and at Threlkeld after 51 peaks, 23 hours, 62 miles and 25,000 feet he decided to call a halt to proceedings.
After packing up with Keith, I drove to Ings and then felt pretty fatigued so we pulled into the Great Outdoors car park and slept for a couple of hours before continuing the journey home, finally getting to bed about 5.30.
Thank you all for your interest and support - I hope the tea and refreshments contributed to the social side of the proceedings and that it was an enjoyable day out for everyone - runners and supporters alike.
Ian's in good shape and already thinking about next year (scary!) so let's see how the recovery period goes - I can't help feeling it won't last long.
NLN
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Three ~ Two ~ One ~ Zero!
Although we knew, as Ian descended from Yewbarrow into Wasdale, that he was behind his schedule, we were heartened to see that his spirits were high (see below) and he was raring to continue across the high fells towards, eventually, the Moot Hall. He had been supported from Honister by the lone Dave Bateson, who had to contend with carrying all the kit and food, navigating and the awful slippy conditions on the rocks around Gable.
Although we knew, as Ian descended from Yewbarrow into Wasdale, that he was behind his schedule, we were heartened to see that his spirits were high (see below) and he was raring to continue across the high fells towards, eventually, the Moot Hall. He had been supported from Honister by the lone Dave Bateson, who had to contend with carrying all the kit and food, navigating and the awful slippy conditions on the rocks around Gable.
After refuelling on bananas and rice pudding, Ian set off up Scafell with Albert, Karl and Bill of CFRA. He was followed by small group consisting of TF and Yours Truly (see later).
We next saw Ian from Dunmail Raise as he descended Steel Fell, wearier but still in good spirits. Before he arrived we had been entertained by two Americans who were convinced that they had found a body, sown into a body-bag in a nearby ditch. Pauline took command and sent me off to investigate. The body turned out to be non-existant and the bag turned out to be one of the rock sacks that are used to chopper up stone for rebuilding eroded paths.
On arrival Ian further refuelled and set off up Seat Sandal with Suzanne, Phil and Rae (?).
I'll leave Pauline to post details of the rest of the day.
Back to Scafell ~ The following group took in Scafell and Scafell Pike before returning to Wasdale, despite the party leader's sterling efforts to get completely lost, which included failure to recognise Foxes Tarn (where should the apostrophe go?), a diversion off Scafell Pike down the Borrowdale route to the top of Piers Gill and more toilet stops than you could shake a stick at. However considered map reading by TF recovered the situation on both occasions and the car park was finally regained after about four and a half hours.
Not sure whether the following smile is of relief, amusement or just pure amazement that we finally reached the top of England.
And if you hadn't realised, the title of this post refers to the height of Scafell Pike in feet.
EtU
PS ~ Dave Powell-Thompson, going for a standard BG on the same day, had baled out at Dunmail before we got there, having lost too much time on the slippy conditions.
PPS ~ Is "earnt" a word?
Thursday, August 28, 2008
How I earnt my cream tea
Mondays (very easy paced) run set off from the Black Dog, Belmont at 11.30am. Passing the church I noticed a sign saying ‘Cream Teas being served 2-4pm, Mon 25 Aug’. So that was just what I'd need when I got back, making sure though that I was back in time before they ran out of cakes.
So off I went to Horden’s Stoop, Spittlers (very boggy, but found a new stile we haven’t used), Great Hill. Into Tockholes Wood at Calf Hey Bridge and out to join path that heads due east to Earnsdale Res. Then up to Darwen Tower (now 1.30pm). At this point I’d estimated, at the most, 1hr back to Belmont. Took the path that heads SE and followed to Duckshaw Brook. There’s a good track that then heads onto Darwen Moor, and then divides, the right one’s not bad so tried the left. Think the right may be better.
At the gate (675191) on Witton Weavers Way is where it went horribly wrong. I could have carried on down the path and followed it back to Belmont, but decided to try a more direct route. On encountering the first tussocks, I should have turned back. But, thinking things would improve, soldiered on. They just got bigger and bigger. Eventually I managed to get down to the path (but not as far along as I’d hoped) and back to Belmont at 2:45pm.
Thankfully the parishioners had overwhelmed the church with supplies of scones, so I was able to have my cream tea after all. Checking the distances later, I found I’d saved myself about a third of a mile over going round the path. It’d probably cost me 20-30mins, lesson learnt!
Mondays (very easy paced) run set off from the Black Dog, Belmont at 11.30am. Passing the church I noticed a sign saying ‘Cream Teas being served 2-4pm, Mon 25 Aug’. So that was just what I'd need when I got back, making sure though that I was back in time before they ran out of cakes.
So off I went to Horden’s Stoop, Spittlers (very boggy, but found a new stile we haven’t used), Great Hill. Into Tockholes Wood at Calf Hey Bridge and out to join path that heads due east to Earnsdale Res. Then up to Darwen Tower (now 1.30pm). At this point I’d estimated, at the most, 1hr back to Belmont. Took the path that heads SE and followed to Duckshaw Brook. There’s a good track that then heads onto Darwen Moor, and then divides, the right one’s not bad so tried the left. Think the right may be better.
At the gate (675191) on Witton Weavers Way is where it went horribly wrong. I could have carried on down the path and followed it back to Belmont, but decided to try a more direct route. On encountering the first tussocks, I should have turned back. But, thinking things would improve, soldiered on. They just got bigger and bigger. Eventually I managed to get down to the path (but not as far along as I’d hoped) and back to Belmont at 2:45pm.
Thankfully the parishioners had overwhelmed the church with supplies of scones, so I was able to have my cream tea after all. Checking the distances later, I found I’d saved myself about a third of a mile over going round the path. It’d probably cost me 20-30mins, lesson learnt!
Safety Issues
Taking the logical next step, should we have a map with us so we could give MRT a grid reference?
When running on my own off-road I always take a mobile, map and compass. Unfortunately the danger of having a map can mean testing new routes which you wished you hadn't. This was the case on Monday this week, but the cream tea at Belmont's Parish church was worth it when I finished.
UTUP
I'm afraid I can't make it tonight, but will be out again next thurs all being well.
Taking the logical next step, should we have a map with us so we could give MRT a grid reference?
When running on my own off-road I always take a mobile, map and compass. Unfortunately the danger of having a map can mean testing new routes which you wished you hadn't. This was the case on Monday this week, but the cream tea at Belmont's Parish church was worth it when I finished.
UTUP
I'm afraid I can't make it tonight, but will be out again next thurs all being well.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
For those who do.......
carry a mobile phone on the fells.
In these days when you attempt to speak to a local organization only to be put through to some distant central office I have been somewhat concerned that in the case of an emergency on our local moors it might be difficult to describe an exact location to someone unfamiliar with the terrain. I have visited the Bolton Mountain Rescue Team website for advice and this is what they say:
"In an emergency, always dial 999 or 112 and request Mountain Rescue via the Police, Ambulance or Fire control rooms"
Sorry if I seem to be a bit over the top in regard to safety but being the Elder I have a natural instinct to look after the kids!
carry a mobile phone on the fells.
In these days when you attempt to speak to a local organization only to be put through to some distant central office I have been somewhat concerned that in the case of an emergency on our local moors it might be difficult to describe an exact location to someone unfamiliar with the terrain. I have visited the Bolton Mountain Rescue Team website for advice and this is what they say:
"In an emergency, always dial 999 or 112 and request Mountain Rescue via the Police, Ambulance or Fire control rooms"
Sorry if I seem to be a bit over the top in regard to safety but being the Elder I have a natural instinct to look after the kids!
Karate world championships.
My absence on Saturday was, as most of you know, due to my distraction by Sally’s appearance in the world Karate championships at Manchester Velodrome, an event far removed from fell running but worth a mention as Sally has actually run on the fells.
Saturday’s events were devoted to katas ( non-combative movements reflecting blocking and attacking moves) in which competitors performed set moves in pairs before judges. Sally got no further than the first round in the individual competition nor in the team katas, a sort of synchronised mayhem for teams of three.
Sunday, which we did not see, having returned home, produced better results, Sally winning a bronze medal in the team fighting (there were only three teams in her category) but her major success came in the individual fighting where she came fourth out of nine, suffering no worse than a blow on the nose with not even any blood to show for it.
In all there were 600 competitors from many countries around the world and a lot of scary people wandering about.
Future training plans
As usual at this time of year the emphasis for some of us turns briefly to road running in preparation for the Snowdonia marathon at the end of October. With this in mind my Saturday morning training runs will take me round the old Bolton 40 course with variations and loops added on to increase distance where necessary. One lap is 13+ miles with the two Belmont triangles taking it up to 16 miles. Hopefully by the beginning of October the runs will have stretched to two laps. This hilly course is ideal training for the very hilly Snowdonia. If I can entice any of the squad away from the fells for all or any of this time I shall be grateful of the company as solo running does not have the same appeal as the social element provided by our normal Saturdays outings.
My absence on Saturday was, as most of you know, due to my distraction by Sally’s appearance in the world Karate championships at Manchester Velodrome, an event far removed from fell running but worth a mention as Sally has actually run on the fells.
Saturday’s events were devoted to katas ( non-combative movements reflecting blocking and attacking moves) in which competitors performed set moves in pairs before judges. Sally got no further than the first round in the individual competition nor in the team katas, a sort of synchronised mayhem for teams of three.
Sunday, which we did not see, having returned home, produced better results, Sally winning a bronze medal in the team fighting (there were only three teams in her category) but her major success came in the individual fighting where she came fourth out of nine, suffering no worse than a blow on the nose with not even any blood to show for it.
In all there were 600 competitors from many countries around the world and a lot of scary people wandering about.
Future training plans
As usual at this time of year the emphasis for some of us turns briefly to road running in preparation for the Snowdonia marathon at the end of October. With this in mind my Saturday morning training runs will take me round the old Bolton 40 course with variations and loops added on to increase distance where necessary. One lap is 13+ miles with the two Belmont triangles taking it up to 16 miles. Hopefully by the beginning of October the runs will have stretched to two laps. This hilly course is ideal training for the very hilly Snowdonia. If I can entice any of the squad away from the fells for all or any of this time I shall be grateful of the company as solo running does not have the same appeal as the social element provided by our normal Saturdays outings.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Downhill Race Televised?
Was the trailer for "The Cup" filmed on Green Lane playing field, which is on most folks' route for the Downhill Race ~ it's next Thursday by the way, and if my sciatica isn't as bad as it's been today, following a stumble coming down through the gardens this morning, I'll be doing it, along, I understand, with the Galloping Major.
EtU
Was the trailer for "The Cup" filmed on Green Lane playing field, which is on most folks' route for the Downhill Race ~ it's next Thursday by the way, and if my sciatica isn't as bad as it's been today, following a stumble coming down through the gardens this morning, I'll be doing it, along, I understand, with the Galloping Major.
EtU
FBDNS ~ Weasdale '08
After two DNFs this month, I ended up failing to make the startline for the Weasdale (hence Finished But Did Not Start!). A busy morning followed by an even busier motorway between M65 and M55 meant the race was just setting off as we approached the field. A car containing a couple of Dark Peak runners followed us in so we decided to do the course as a training run as registration had disappeared.
I notice from last year's results that Nick'O and Ed ran it and you would probably agree that it is a great course - at least for me with good climbs and long reasonably gentle descents.
We did manage to catch the back marker although it was quite near the finish that I passed him (no over 2 hour runners this year). I completed in 1:34:43 - whether I would have been quicker had I warmed up, stretched and started with the others is hard to tell - I supposed I did have to have a pit stop including properly tying shoes. At least no injury and I finished well within my target of 1:40.
Looking at last years, there were 299 finishers - of course it was a championship race - I suspect there were less than a 100 runner this year. I don't know if there were any other Horwich runners this year as we had get off straight away.
T'Yorkshireman
After two DNFs this month, I ended up failing to make the startline for the Weasdale (hence Finished But Did Not Start!). A busy morning followed by an even busier motorway between M65 and M55 meant the race was just setting off as we approached the field. A car containing a couple of Dark Peak runners followed us in so we decided to do the course as a training run as registration had disappeared.
I notice from last year's results that Nick'O and Ed ran it and you would probably agree that it is a great course - at least for me with good climbs and long reasonably gentle descents.
We did manage to catch the back marker although it was quite near the finish that I passed him (no over 2 hour runners this year). I completed in 1:34:43 - whether I would have been quicker had I warmed up, stretched and started with the others is hard to tell - I supposed I did have to have a pit stop including properly tying shoes. At least no injury and I finished well within my target of 1:40.
Looking at last years, there were 299 finishers - of course it was a championship race - I suspect there were less than a 100 runner this year. I don't know if there were any other Horwich runners this year as we had get off straight away.
T'Yorkshireman
Leg 2 Runner
FSS has advertised on the FRA forum for an extra runner for leg 2 of his 55@55. So far there’s been a very meagre response. Having been to Wasdale now, how could you not want to be there! Admittedly it means a bit of an early start, but the views…
Perhaps it’s a bit ‘been there, done it’ for some people. So maybe the promise of a cooked breakfast, ok - bacon buttie (it’s only a small frying pan) and homemade cake could tempt them. What do you reckon?
There is, of course, the optional extra of a chauffeur driven, open-top (weather permitting) ride back to Honister. Unfortunately the leggy blonde lined up as chauffeur has failed to achieve the required driving standards, so they’ll have to make do with a short, stumpy brunette.
TF
Ps If we’re inundated with replies, potential candidates will need to be vetted for suitability, a photo will be required.
FSS has advertised on the FRA forum for an extra runner for leg 2 of his 55@55. So far there’s been a very meagre response. Having been to Wasdale now, how could you not want to be there! Admittedly it means a bit of an early start, but the views…
Perhaps it’s a bit ‘been there, done it’ for some people. So maybe the promise of a cooked breakfast, ok - bacon buttie (it’s only a small frying pan) and homemade cake could tempt them. What do you reckon?
There is, of course, the optional extra of a chauffeur driven, open-top (weather permitting) ride back to Honister. Unfortunately the leggy blonde lined up as chauffeur has failed to achieve the required driving standards, so they’ll have to make do with a short, stumpy brunette.
TF
Ps If we’re inundated with replies, potential candidates will need to be vetted for suitability, a photo will be required.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Not Just His Glasses!
Anyone who has run with Mat (Shticklegs) will be aware of his propensity for losing his glasses. Well, this morning he didn't lose his glasses, but the rest of the crew lost his glasses ~ and Mat himself as well!
Soon after Hordern Stoops (after a brief stop to admire Paul Murray's allotment) as we headed for the Bomber Memorial, he decided that he had to be home early and he stuck of left on a route indicated by TF, back to the barn. We carried on to the Memorial, where we admired the view and refreshed ourselves, and then returned to base at a leisurely pace. On arrival we were a little surprised and not a little concerned to find Mat's car just where we (and he) had left it. It was already his due time for departure and JtE (frightened of what his sister would do to him if he'd lost her husband) was already picturing him lying concussed in a pool of blood, Mat that is, not John after Christina had finished with him.
Anyway, the beauty of not being able to decide quickly what to do, is that the problem is often resolved before a decision is made, and so it was. Mat duly appeared and we told him how worried we had been (but didn't say that we were worried about what Christina would do to JtE, rather than about Mat's fate). He explained that he had got back earlier than expected and jogged off for a couple of extra miles. This of course had made him late, so he might as well have stayed with the rest of us for the run in.
As they say (who are they?) all's well that ends well ~ not often said by folk who've spent time in an NHS hospital.
EtU
Anyone who has run with Mat (Shticklegs) will be aware of his propensity for losing his glasses. Well, this morning he didn't lose his glasses, but the rest of the crew lost his glasses ~ and Mat himself as well!
Soon after Hordern Stoops (after a brief stop to admire Paul Murray's allotment) as we headed for the Bomber Memorial, he decided that he had to be home early and he stuck of left on a route indicated by TF, back to the barn. We carried on to the Memorial, where we admired the view and refreshed ourselves, and then returned to base at a leisurely pace. On arrival we were a little surprised and not a little concerned to find Mat's car just where we (and he) had left it. It was already his due time for departure and JtE (frightened of what his sister would do to him if he'd lost her husband) was already picturing him lying concussed in a pool of blood, Mat that is, not John after Christina had finished with him.
Anyway, the beauty of not being able to decide quickly what to do, is that the problem is often resolved before a decision is made, and so it was. Mat duly appeared and we told him how worried we had been (but didn't say that we were worried about what Christina would do to JtE, rather than about Mat's fate). He explained that he had got back earlier than expected and jogged off for a couple of extra miles. This of course had made him late, so he might as well have stayed with the rest of us for the run in.
As they say (who are they?) all's well that ends well ~ not often said by folk who've spent time in an NHS hospital.
EtU
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Whittle Pike 4.5m/1400ft
Did anyone else venture out last night for a run other than me and JtE? In Rawtenstall it was proper snorkel and flippers weather!
I know it’s only 4.5m but it still amazes me when you ask for a sight of the course map you get told ‘Don’t worry it’s flagged and there’s marshals out there. We’re expecting about 160 runners’.
So optimistically that was 155 for me to follow then! I know full well that despite this and even on a short course such as this one, gaps emerge. If you’re the type of person that likes to wander about aimlessly, then this would be ok. The weather had worsened on my drive up. The windmills on top of Whittle Pike which were clearly visible from the M66, would now, as the rain was bouncing down, only be visible when in touching distance. A bit of an idea of the route might prove crucial, especially if I didn’t want to finish at 160.
So grateful then, when a sketch map of the course route appeared on the wall of the village hall. What a cracking route it turned out to be, packing in three tough little climbs and an extremely dicey stream crossing. I think Rossendale Harriers were definitely trying to play home advantage though. The flags did peter out at one point, so did any sight of any runners in front and the trod. It was still a bit of a relief when I realised I had picked the right way and came across the next marshall.
I got pipped to the post in the last 5m by one runner, but was pleased that there was at least 5 finishing behind me as I left. A very enjoyable 75mins run, and definitely one to recommend.
TF
Did anyone else venture out last night for a run other than me and JtE? In Rawtenstall it was proper snorkel and flippers weather!
I know it’s only 4.5m but it still amazes me when you ask for a sight of the course map you get told ‘Don’t worry it’s flagged and there’s marshals out there. We’re expecting about 160 runners’.
So optimistically that was 155 for me to follow then! I know full well that despite this and even on a short course such as this one, gaps emerge. If you’re the type of person that likes to wander about aimlessly, then this would be ok. The weather had worsened on my drive up. The windmills on top of Whittle Pike which were clearly visible from the M66, would now, as the rain was bouncing down, only be visible when in touching distance. A bit of an idea of the route might prove crucial, especially if I didn’t want to finish at 160.
So grateful then, when a sketch map of the course route appeared on the wall of the village hall. What a cracking route it turned out to be, packing in three tough little climbs and an extremely dicey stream crossing. I think Rossendale Harriers were definitely trying to play home advantage though. The flags did peter out at one point, so did any sight of any runners in front and the trod. It was still a bit of a relief when I realised I had picked the right way and came across the next marshall.
I got pipped to the post in the last 5m by one runner, but was pleased that there was at least 5 finishing behind me as I left. A very enjoyable 75mins run, and definitely one to recommend.
TF
I'm Sure You All Knew...
...but in case you didn't ~ if you're playing with www.trigpointinguk.com and have done a search and got a list of adjacent trig points; if you click on the little world icon next to your chosen one, it brings up the map. Much easier than tracking it on your own map, and definitely much easier than going out to get one if you haven't already got it.
EtU
...but in case you didn't ~ if you're playing with www.trigpointinguk.com and have done a search and got a list of adjacent trig points; if you click on the little world icon next to your chosen one, it brings up the map. Much easier than tracking it on your own map, and definitely much easier than going out to get one if you haven't already got it.
EtU
August Jubilee 5
Turned out last night for a soggy run. Stop watch time was 45.10 clipping 55 seconds off the o70 course record set up by me last year. Unfortunately Dennis Weir turned out. He's now 70 and he vanished into the distance probably clipping about five or six minutes off!
I'm not turning out tonight but I'll be there on Saturday.
Turned out last night for a soggy run. Stop watch time was 45.10 clipping 55 seconds off the o70 course record set up by me last year. Unfortunately Dennis Weir turned out. He's now 70 and he vanished into the distance probably clipping about five or six minutes off!
I'm not turning out tonight but I'll be there on Saturday.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Following my 10.54.2 pace on Sunday, I'm making the most of my rest week and racing on wednesday. This means I'll be in wrong time & place thurs (ie too cream-crackered to run), but in right time & place on Saturday. Forecast for the BH w/e is looking better. It couldn't get much worse than at the moment, could it?
TF
TF
Monday, August 18, 2008
Belper Rugby Rover.
While I sat eating my porridge on Sunday morning, after a restless night, I contemplated packing away a soggy tent in the rain and then going for 30k run in it. I had a few doubts at the wisdom of attempting this race.
By the time the washing-up was done, the sun was out and prospects were looking brighter. Being optimistic that it’d last, I slapped on a load of SPF30 and made my way to the pre-race briefing. I have to say this was one of the clearest that I’d attended. Firstly, I could hear it and secondly, we were shown an example of all the different arrows and tape to look out for, advised not to touch the electric fence (MRT on standby) and told not to frighten any livestock (as if).
Here’s the route profile.
While I sat eating my porridge on Sunday morning, after a restless night, I contemplated packing away a soggy tent in the rain and then going for 30k run in it. I had a few doubts at the wisdom of attempting this race.
By the time the washing-up was done, the sun was out and prospects were looking brighter. Being optimistic that it’d last, I slapped on a load of SPF30 and made my way to the pre-race briefing. I have to say this was one of the clearest that I’d attended. Firstly, I could hear it and secondly, we were shown an example of all the different arrows and tape to look out for, advised not to touch the electric fence (MRT on standby) and told not to frighten any livestock (as if).
Here’s the route profile.
A nice easy route to follow with lots of varied terrain, not too boggy despite the overnight rain and the views made up for the tarmac bits. Good clearance was given to anything remotely electrified and the only livestock we came across was a large herd of mostly placid cows and an irate woman farmer yelling at us to stop running, as it was frightening the cows. I think her yelling and flapping her arms about and the farmhand on the quad-bike were doing a better job of this than us!
I was a little worried that having reached the half-way point at a shade shy of 2hrs that I’d make it to the finish in under 4hrs. The last bit of ouchie tarmac ensured I managed to complete the course in just under 11min/mile pace. How much under will be verified when I get a sight of the results.
TF
Borrowdale - Very Late Postscript
YJ and FSS, being the type of chaps who are very keen on statistics regarding races etc, have recently exchanged split times for the Borrowdale Fell Race. YJ's being his PB of eleven years ago and FSS's PB this year. Given that the finishing times were extremely close, and at the time of each race, the contenders were of the same age category, it is not suprising that the split times were also very close, reflecting individual strengths on ascents/ descents. What's worth blogging about that I hear you say - well not much. But the astounding fact is that Simon Booth of Borrowdale Fellrunners was the winner 11 years ago and he's won every Borrowdale race since, including this year. Now that is worth a mention!
NLN
YJ and FSS, being the type of chaps who are very keen on statistics regarding races etc, have recently exchanged split times for the Borrowdale Fell Race. YJ's being his PB of eleven years ago and FSS's PB this year. Given that the finishing times were extremely close, and at the time of each race, the contenders were of the same age category, it is not suprising that the split times were also very close, reflecting individual strengths on ascents/ descents. What's worth blogging about that I hear you say - well not much. But the astounding fact is that Simon Booth of Borrowdale Fellrunners was the winner 11 years ago and he's won every Borrowdale race since, including this year. Now that is worth a mention!
NLN
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Third Time Lucky
I don't usually frequent the TaT three evenings in succession, but we were there again last night, this time for an aperitif with Rachel, our eldest and Jorge, her boyfriend.
And it's arrived; Bank Top Flat Cap; and do you know, it's not quite as good as I remember it. Still better than Cains, but in danger of losing its place in my top three.
Will have another sampling next Thursday when Watters and I meet Mark Davies. All welcome.
I'm seeing more of Watters than usual at the moment, as his new squeeze is away for a fortnight and she has asked me to help him cope with his loneliness. My contibution to this is very definitely limited to taking him to the pub.
EtU
I don't usually frequent the TaT three evenings in succession, but we were there again last night, this time for an aperitif with Rachel, our eldest and Jorge, her boyfriend.
And it's arrived; Bank Top Flat Cap; and do you know, it's not quite as good as I remember it. Still better than Cains, but in danger of losing its place in my top three.
Will have another sampling next Thursday when Watters and I meet Mark Davies. All welcome.
I'm seeing more of Watters than usual at the moment, as his new squeeze is away for a fortnight and she has asked me to help him cope with his loneliness. My contibution to this is very definitely limited to taking him to the pub.
EtU
Friday, August 15, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
No DP-T BG this Weekend
Just for info, the UTUPers will have my and (most probably) YJ's company to enjoy this coming Saturday ~ sorry to spoil your day, JtE.
Just for info, the UTUPers will have my and (most probably) YJ's company to enjoy this coming Saturday ~ sorry to spoil your day, JtE.
No particular connection, but Watters and I are out to the TaT tonight (after having UTUPed) to sus out prices ~ relax John, that's only for the beer, not the freehold!
EtU
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Why do we keep running:
The gentleman with the two dogs we passed at Anglezarke reservoir on Saturday may have been a trifle disdainful about our ages - he obviously hadn't seen this report from America on the need to keep active as the years roll on. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7554293.stm
The gentleman with the two dogs we passed at Anglezarke reservoir on Saturday may have been a trifle disdainful about our ages - he obviously hadn't seen this report from America on the need to keep active as the years roll on. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/
Marvelous Marstons to Secure Swift's Sanctuary
Read all about it...
http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/business/s/1062035_marstons_tops_cains_bidders
NLN
Read all about it...
http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/business/s/1062035_marstons_tops_cains_bidders
NLN
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Is It Me?
For our early doors outing today (Sunday) we thought we'd have a look at the Black Horse at Limbrick, but it was closed!
Nearest convenient was the Bay Horse at Adlington. Asked a couple of locals what was known about the Black Horse and we were told that the proprietors had "done a runner".
Coming to a pub near you, if you want it closed!
EtU
For our early doors outing today (Sunday) we thought we'd have a look at the Black Horse at Limbrick, but it was closed!
Nearest convenient was the Bay Horse at Adlington. Asked a couple of locals what was known about the Black Horse and we were told that the proprietors had "done a runner".
Coming to a pub near you, if you want it closed!
EtU
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Cains not Able...
...to make a profit, and have gone into liquidation. What then, will the future hold for the Thatch and Thistle?
Best scenario:- the company is bought by a national company, which closes the brewery and the TaT sells a variety of beers.
Next best:- the brewery is kept open, continues to brew, but to a different recipe.
Worser:- the brewery continues to brew to the same recipe ~ but why?
Worst:- no-one wants the TaT and it it closes down and becomes a sun bed parlour.
As of last night the pub was open, the staff were subdued, customers were asking when they were starting to sell Flat Cap, and Pete (the landlord, not their second best customer) was not available for comment.
Although not (as you may have guessed) a fan of Cains, I have enjoyed having a pub so close to home, indeed it was a factor in our choice of house, but although I have done my bit to keep their turnover at a good level, I cannot, try as I might, support the whole of the north west brewing industry on my own.
If I hear that there's to be a closing down sale, I'll let you know
Don't Ask...
...about NLN's shirt/sport/skout or whatever.
Miffy (!) Commits Heinous Crime
My Old Speckled Hen acquired her third cat yesterday and we've fallen out. Me and the kitten that is. It's only young (as kittens tend to be) and it must have been using a litter tray lined with newspaper at its previous home. We came to this conclusion after it climbed onto the bed this morning and relieved itself on my Daily Mail, which I was reading with my morning cuppa. Cat lovers amongst you will be pleased (and perhaps surprised) to hear that it is still alive.
EtU
...to make a profit, and have gone into liquidation. What then, will the future hold for the Thatch and Thistle?
Best scenario:- the company is bought by a national company, which closes the brewery and the TaT sells a variety of beers.
Next best:- the brewery is kept open, continues to brew, but to a different recipe.
Worser:- the brewery continues to brew to the same recipe ~ but why?
Worst:- no-one wants the TaT and it it closes down and becomes a sun bed parlour.
As of last night the pub was open, the staff were subdued, customers were asking when they were starting to sell Flat Cap, and Pete (the landlord, not their second best customer) was not available for comment.
Although not (as you may have guessed) a fan of Cains, I have enjoyed having a pub so close to home, indeed it was a factor in our choice of house, but although I have done my bit to keep their turnover at a good level, I cannot, try as I might, support the whole of the north west brewing industry on my own.
If I hear that there's to be a closing down sale, I'll let you know
Don't Ask...
...about NLN's shirt/sport/skout or whatever.
Miffy (!) Commits Heinous Crime
My Old Speckled Hen acquired her third cat yesterday and we've fallen out. Me and the kitten that is. It's only young (as kittens tend to be) and it must have been using a litter tray lined with newspaper at its previous home. We came to this conclusion after it climbed onto the bed this morning and relieved itself on my Daily Mail, which I was reading with my morning cuppa. Cat lovers amongst you will be pleased (and perhaps surprised) to hear that it is still alive.
EtU
Friday, August 08, 2008
Chorley 4 and Sedbergh
I know I'm not much good at turning out on a Thursday but as I'm working from home today thought I might give it a go. If only I'd not picked up an injury last night - just a calf strain that kicked in just after 3 miles final mile was a bit painful, and it was chucking it down.
It will teach not to do a warm up lap - then didn't have time to stretch enough. Saturday took a bit out of me so it was my slowest of the year but not by much - 40 seconds down on last month and 69 seconds down on my best in May.
I expected YJ to come storming past - after all he was fresh as he's not run all day, but alas he even trailed Christine by nearly a minute and a half.
Looks like it will be shopping on Saturday morning. Hopefully I'll get a run in on Sunday.
Anyone doing Sedbergh?
T'Yorkshireman
I know I'm not much good at turning out on a Thursday but as I'm working from home today thought I might give it a go. If only I'd not picked up an injury last night - just a calf strain that kicked in just after 3 miles final mile was a bit painful, and it was chucking it down.
It will teach not to do a warm up lap - then didn't have time to stretch enough. Saturday took a bit out of me so it was my slowest of the year but not by much - 40 seconds down on last month and 69 seconds down on my best in May.
I expected YJ to come storming past - after all he was fresh as he's not run all day, but alas he even trailed Christine by nearly a minute and a half.
Looks like it will be shopping on Saturday morning. Hopefully I'll get a run in on Sunday.
Anyone doing Sedbergh?
T'Yorkshireman
Thanks for the Outing
The minute I wrote that I wondered about the terminology 'outing' these days having a range of connotations. In this context the 'outing' was a jolly pleasant trot out to the Two Lads, Winter Hill, Noon Hill and return to the Usual Place, setting off of course at the Usual Time. The opportunity to join the regulars came about as a result of disruption to the usual weekly schedule due to a combination of sister on holiday and dog walking responsibilities - don't ask!
Having requested the details of the run I felt I had to turn up, but at 5 o'clock on the A6 at Westhoughton and looking across to Winter Hill, all that could be seen was a complete wall of blackness. The evidence of this torrent was everywhere to be seen a couple of hours later. Even in winter conditions I can't remember seeing so much running water, with much of the ground having been washed away in lots of places. Joining Georges Road from the descent of WH was like running through a river - in over ankles for long stretches. So much so, that having summitted Noon Hill, we decided to look for the path above the track (big mistake - suggested by EtU and foolishly adopted by our senior man!). A desparate clambering to eventually get back on track ensued, with a final sprint through Walsuches and the perennial little sting in the tail at the end of Gingham Brow. Thanks lads most enjoyable.
By the way, a very good picture of JTE's brother captured with FSS at Borrowdale - which one's having the better time of it?
http://www.fss55at55.blogspot.com
Well done TF sounds like you had a good run.
See you Saturday
NLN
The minute I wrote that I wondered about the terminology 'outing' these days having a range of connotations. In this context the 'outing' was a jolly pleasant trot out to the Two Lads, Winter Hill, Noon Hill and return to the Usual Place, setting off of course at the Usual Time. The opportunity to join the regulars came about as a result of disruption to the usual weekly schedule due to a combination of sister on holiday and dog walking responsibilities - don't ask!
Having requested the details of the run I felt I had to turn up, but at 5 o'clock on the A6 at Westhoughton and looking across to Winter Hill, all that could be seen was a complete wall of blackness. The evidence of this torrent was everywhere to be seen a couple of hours later. Even in winter conditions I can't remember seeing so much running water, with much of the ground having been washed away in lots of places. Joining Georges Road from the descent of WH was like running through a river - in over ankles for long stretches. So much so, that having summitted Noon Hill, we decided to look for the path above the track (big mistake - suggested by EtU and foolishly adopted by our senior man!). A desparate clambering to eventually get back on track ensued, with a final sprint through Walsuches and the perennial little sting in the tail at the end of Gingham Brow. Thanks lads most enjoyable.
By the way, a very good picture of JTE's brother captured with FSS at Borrowdale - which one's having the better time of it?
http://www.fss55at55.blogspot.com
Well done TF sounds like you had a good run.
See you Saturday
NLN
Sale 5K
Interesting how being tired can affect my performance in a race. EtU’s prediction of 24:59 was a little out. I think the extra miles and harder sessions prior to the race this week certainly made a difference.
That said, I ran a much more even paced race. Party because this time I didn’t set off like Zebedee, much more like Brian (Magic Roundabout©). And partly due to realising (following a bit of research) that the 2k marker is in the wrong place. It should be tied to a tree about 100m further along the route.
The result, 9 secs faster than last time (25:41). First Salford LV from a healthy turn-out on the night. All in all, well worth the effort and certainly wasn't what I'd have predicted either.
TF
Interesting how being tired can affect my performance in a race. EtU’s prediction of 24:59 was a little out. I think the extra miles and harder sessions prior to the race this week certainly made a difference.
That said, I ran a much more even paced race. Party because this time I didn’t set off like Zebedee, much more like Brian (Magic Roundabout©). And partly due to realising (following a bit of research) that the 2k marker is in the wrong place. It should be tied to a tree about 100m further along the route.
The result, 9 secs faster than last time (25:41). First Salford LV from a healthy turn-out on the night. All in all, well worth the effort and certainly wasn't what I'd have predicted either.
TF
Thursday, August 07, 2008
UTUP/UPUT
Get organised you lot! We cannot have this lack of standardisation. This phrase is derived from that well known song which starts "It's the wrong time and the wrong place..." so it's got to be UTUP. Please adhere to this convention. Offenders will be disenfranchised.
Messages to TF
Please keep out of the rain until we have seen you without curls. Post a picture if poor forecast.
Time for your 5k? 24:59.
EtU
Get organised you lot! We cannot have this lack of standardisation. This phrase is derived from that well known song which starts "It's the wrong time and the wrong place..." so it's got to be UTUP. Please adhere to this convention. Offenders will be disenfranchised.
Messages to TF
Please keep out of the rain until we have seen you without curls. Post a picture if poor forecast.
Time for your 5k? 24:59.
EtU
Borrowdale
Should this warning about not finishing Borrowdale also include following someone wearing a Horwich Vest?
Plenty of us haven't been on Scafell Pike. This oversight will be rectified at some point, better to be on it intentionally than unintentionally!
The results for 2006 are on results page of FRA Forum, can find Ray but no Swifts.
UpUt
I won't.
Doing 2 laps of Wythenshawe Park tonight. Perhaps we should have a 'predict a race time' competition. Answers on a blog-post before 8pm, I think I'll be finished by then?!
Saturday - I'm having the curly locks straightened, have to make 'em work for the money. If it rains, it'll last as long as it takes me to get back to the car.
Should this warning about not finishing Borrowdale also include following someone wearing a Horwich Vest?
Plenty of us haven't been on Scafell Pike. This oversight will be rectified at some point, better to be on it intentionally than unintentionally!
The results for 2006 are on results page of FRA Forum, can find Ray but no Swifts.
UpUt
I won't.
Doing 2 laps of Wythenshawe Park tonight. Perhaps we should have a 'predict a race time' competition. Answers on a blog-post before 8pm, I think I'll be finished by then?!
Saturday - I'm having the curly locks straightened, have to make 'em work for the money. If it rains, it'll last as long as it takes me to get back to the car.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Borrowdale 2008 and the Hidden Jam Butties
(Sounds like a Rupert Bear adventure)
Just a few comparative times, now that the results are available:
2007 was a short course, Scoffer having taken Mountain Rescue advice and taken Scafell Pike out of the course due to "adverse weather conditions".
Couldn't find 2006 results, either at home (probably because I didn't do it) or on the Borrowdale site, because they have the 2007 results repeated when you tab the 2006 results.
2005 then. Winner in 2005 was Simon Booth in 2:46 as he was this year in 2:49. FSS took a healthy 31 minutes off his 2005 5:09 to clock 4:38 this year. Staffers (aka Mat) (DNE 2008) ran 5:15 in 2005, just seconds behind Yours Truly (DNF 2008) who also ran 5:15 in 2005 ~ Good grief! I didn't even get to Honister in that time this year!
(Sounds like a Rupert Bear adventure)
Just a few comparative times, now that the results are available:
2007 was a short course, Scoffer having taken Mountain Rescue advice and taken Scafell Pike out of the course due to "adverse weather conditions".
Couldn't find 2006 results, either at home (probably because I didn't do it) or on the Borrowdale site, because they have the 2007 results repeated when you tab the 2006 results.
2005 then. Winner in 2005 was Simon Booth in 2:46 as he was this year in 2:49. FSS took a healthy 31 minutes off his 2005 5:09 to clock 4:38 this year. Staffers (aka Mat) (DNE 2008) ran 5:15 in 2005, just seconds behind Yours Truly (DNF 2008) who also ran 5:15 in 2005 ~ Good grief! I didn't even get to Honister in that time this year!
Colin Waterworth made his debut both in the race (5:36) and on Scafell Pike ~ never having been there before! On the way home he said it was a horrid race and that he would never do it again. However in an email (trying to trace his mobi) a couple of days later, he had relented and is planning (perhaps that's a bit too strong) to do it again next year.
And the hidden Butties? Having (been) retired at Honister, I had headed straight to the butty shack when I got back to Rosthwaite, and then remembered that I had to check in at the finish. Not wanting the organisers to see just what my priority had been on return, I hid my jam butties up my jumper, reported in, then ate them when I was safely out of sight again.
EtU
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Skylarks and Laverocks
Well I never, how poetic - I bet everyone else knew that a Laverock was a skylark.
To get to the images of Laverock How go to Ann Bowker's website http://www.keswick.u-net.com/ click on the link with the 'Hot' icon, then scroll down to the bottom of the page where you'll find .... other recent pictures. The fell you desire is 'Ponsonby Fell' and there you will find Laverock How on the walk from Gosforth Church. This is a fantastic website and keeps me going through the long week in Wigan, until we can get to the Lakes at the weekend. I can look at any of the summits in the Lakes, anytime and swoon over their loveliness.... anyway think I'm getting a bit carried away now, but you know what I mean.
Another fascinating link is http://web.ukonline.co.uk/sw.rae/fells.htm for anyone who is interested in the origin of the name of their favourite fell. For instance did you know that Causey Pike is the peak above the causeway. The reference is probably to the Roman road which ran across the low-lying land between Crosthwaite and Braithwaite and which appears in 1280 as 'le chaucey', the causeway.O.E. plc (O.N. pik). And as for your qery about Swirl How ... A Norwegian dialect word 'svirle', to swirl or whirl around, suggests that there may have been an O.N. word of similar meaning. This fell could appropriately be described as 'the hill where the wind swirls round'. How = O.N. haugr. So there you are.
NLN
Family connections
Didn’t think I had any in the lakes. Unfortunately the picture of Laverock How has disappeared from the web site, and no amount of googling will bring it up again. It did get me thinking on the origin of the place name however. The ‘How’ bit is apparently derived from the Old Norse word ‘Haugr’ which means mound or little hill. Laverock is an old Scottish word for a ‘Skylark’ as in “Now laverocks wake the merry morn, Aloft on dewy wing” (Burns). So could it be we have evidence for early bird-spotters.
Gets a bit tricky though when you start to think how Swirl How got its name. Maybe the locals set off on a naming expedition and got to the top and found it a bit windy and a cairn, someone had got there before them. ‘Cos it’d have to be a bit claggy for them not to realise they were on top of a big hill.
Didn’t think I had any in the lakes. Unfortunately the picture of Laverock How has disappeared from the web site, and no amount of googling will bring it up again. It did get me thinking on the origin of the place name however. The ‘How’ bit is apparently derived from the Old Norse word ‘Haugr’ which means mound or little hill. Laverock is an old Scottish word for a ‘Skylark’ as in “Now laverocks wake the merry morn, Aloft on dewy wing” (Burns). So could it be we have evidence for early bird-spotters.
Gets a bit tricky though when you start to think how Swirl How got its name. Maybe the locals set off on a naming expedition and got to the top and found it a bit windy and a cairn, someone had got there before them. ‘Cos it’d have to be a bit claggy for them not to realise they were on top of a big hill.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
How many words constitutes a marathon in Blogging? I think T'Yorkshireman must have come pretty close. Hard lines lads for Borrowdale.
I have to report that I didn't fair much better on Saturday. Although I managed to complete my 18 mile road circuit, I was out long enough for the Shell Garage (near my house) to have dropped it's price for a litre of unleaded by 2 pence by the time I got back!
Really looking forward to the next outing which will be extended to include a detour up Smithills Dean Road ( part of Burnden 10k route). Anyone got a headtorch they can lend me?
TF
I have to report that I didn't fair much better on Saturday. Although I managed to complete my 18 mile road circuit, I was out long enough for the Shell Garage (near my house) to have dropped it's price for a litre of unleaded by 2 pence by the time I got back!
Really looking forward to the next outing which will be extended to include a detour up Smithills Dean Road ( part of Burnden 10k route). Anyone got a headtorch they can lend me?
TF
Borrowdale '08
It has been a very busy week. Julie & I got back from holiday on Sunday afternoon and Julie was working at Guide Dogs in the evening and then would go to Bradford to collect Joanne who had decided that she could no longer continue with the course at Bradford University and find a job - associated with bringing back 3 years worth of belongings. We'd also decided that her bedroom needed redecorating. So a busy week was ahead - three weeks lawn growth to deal with for a start. My mobile had effectively been switched off for two weeks so when I powered up the battery I found a few messages, one of which was to ring one of the daughters of an mate/ex-colleague. I phoned early evening to sadly invite me to his funeral on Tuesday - that put my grumpiness of going back to work into perspective. Steve was quite a regular at our midsummer barbecues so some of you will have met him.
By Wednesday evening I managed my first run of the week (up to Two Lads) and it was only by Thursday that I thought of going up to Borrowdale at the last minute (although I'd always planned to go up an get a hard training run in).
On Thursday I had look on the FRA Forum and noticed there were a few messages from runners who were unable to fulfil their entry at Borrowdale. By Friday night I'd got a number sorted (subject to acceptance at the tent) and sorted transport arrangements with Ed and JTY.
As everyone knows I'm always last minute but I did manage to get to PW's Stately House Car Park approximately on time, slightly delayed as I'd picked up a Gruniad en route. I even remembered to pack a gross of egg boxes for t'other Yorkshireman.
Everything then went to plan to get to Rosthwaite, well almost to plan - Ed did have to sweet-talk a well tanned lady (Sri-Linkan I would guess) into using her facilities and we could have done with not arriving on the Grange bus route just behind the bus.
Amazingly they accepted my entry and I started to wonder if I was doing the right thing.
I knew that when I started and knew that it would challenging for me to make the Honister cut-off but I have done it before so why not.
Although my fitness has improved this year over the last couple, it was soon obvious that I was going to struggle. I normally make good progress up Bessyboot and on the more runnable stretches towards Esk Hause. When I realised that I was finding it hard work where I ought have some speed, I decided I would make a decision at Esk Hause. It got there in about 2hrs 5, a time I would hope to be at reaching Scafell Pike if I had any chance of making the cut-off.
A certain gentleman told me that he had never be timed out at Borrowdale in 12 starts whereas I think my success rate is either two or three times from between six and eight starts, had just passed me on the stretch and I began to realise it made no sense to keep marshals and MRT out longer than necessary so made the decision to retire at Esk Hause despite marshals and JTY trying to convince me to go on.
I knew what lie ahead - the wet rocks en route to Scafell Pike - and having run across them in the race at least half a dozen times in the past I had no desire to do so again unless I was going to have a decent end result. I wanted to live to fight another day.
So retire I did, joined up with John and we headed down to Sty Head to support the many runners both from Horwich and others. Eventually Ed came through and although he had no chance of reaching Honister in time he continued up Gable whilst we took the shorter route to Windy Gap where Matt (Stichlegs) was awaiting us and then cheered the fellow back of field runners through and ran with Ed to Honister and back to the field.
I got my good run out in the Lakes but doubt I will ever run the Borrowdale Race again (unless the mooted alternative shortened route is brought in for vets). It's not a course that I enjoy - I'm not suited to it - but it is something I am drawn to. I would have to return to the fitness of 10 to 15 years ago - and there's about as much chance of that as my beloved Huddersfield Town adding to their three League Championship titles.
T'Yorkshireman
It has been a very busy week. Julie & I got back from holiday on Sunday afternoon and Julie was working at Guide Dogs in the evening and then would go to Bradford to collect Joanne who had decided that she could no longer continue with the course at Bradford University and find a job - associated with bringing back 3 years worth of belongings. We'd also decided that her bedroom needed redecorating. So a busy week was ahead - three weeks lawn growth to deal with for a start. My mobile had effectively been switched off for two weeks so when I powered up the battery I found a few messages, one of which was to ring one of the daughters of an mate/ex-colleague. I phoned early evening to sadly invite me to his funeral on Tuesday - that put my grumpiness of going back to work into perspective. Steve was quite a regular at our midsummer barbecues so some of you will have met him.
By Wednesday evening I managed my first run of the week (up to Two Lads) and it was only by Thursday that I thought of going up to Borrowdale at the last minute (although I'd always planned to go up an get a hard training run in).
On Thursday I had look on the FRA Forum and noticed there were a few messages from runners who were unable to fulfil their entry at Borrowdale. By Friday night I'd got a number sorted (subject to acceptance at the tent) and sorted transport arrangements with Ed and JTY.
As everyone knows I'm always last minute but I did manage to get to PW's Stately House Car Park approximately on time, slightly delayed as I'd picked up a Gruniad en route. I even remembered to pack a gross of egg boxes for t'other Yorkshireman.
Everything then went to plan to get to Rosthwaite, well almost to plan - Ed did have to sweet-talk a well tanned lady (Sri-Linkan I would guess) into using her facilities and we could have done with not arriving on the Grange bus route just behind the bus.
Amazingly they accepted my entry and I started to wonder if I was doing the right thing.
I knew that when I started and knew that it would challenging for me to make the Honister cut-off but I have done it before so why not.
Although my fitness has improved this year over the last couple, it was soon obvious that I was going to struggle. I normally make good progress up Bessyboot and on the more runnable stretches towards Esk Hause. When I realised that I was finding it hard work where I ought have some speed, I decided I would make a decision at Esk Hause. It got there in about 2hrs 5, a time I would hope to be at reaching Scafell Pike if I had any chance of making the cut-off.
A certain gentleman told me that he had never be timed out at Borrowdale in 12 starts whereas I think my success rate is either two or three times from between six and eight starts, had just passed me on the stretch and I began to realise it made no sense to keep marshals and MRT out longer than necessary so made the decision to retire at Esk Hause despite marshals and JTY trying to convince me to go on.
I knew what lie ahead - the wet rocks en route to Scafell Pike - and having run across them in the race at least half a dozen times in the past I had no desire to do so again unless I was going to have a decent end result. I wanted to live to fight another day.
So retire I did, joined up with John and we headed down to Sty Head to support the many runners both from Horwich and others. Eventually Ed came through and although he had no chance of reaching Honister in time he continued up Gable whilst we took the shorter route to Windy Gap where Matt (Stichlegs) was awaiting us and then cheered the fellow back of field runners through and ran with Ed to Honister and back to the field.
I got my good run out in the Lakes but doubt I will ever run the Borrowdale Race again (unless the mooted alternative shortened route is brought in for vets). It's not a course that I enjoy - I'm not suited to it - but it is something I am drawn to. I would have to return to the fitness of 10 to 15 years ago - and there's about as much chance of that as my beloved Huddersfield Town adding to their three League Championship titles.
T'Yorkshireman
Friday, August 01, 2008
Laverock How?
Well, perhaps TF could tell us if there's a connection?
Just looking at Ann Bowker’s website with piccies of a walk on 20th July from Gosforth Church over Ponsonby Fell via yes you guessed it Laverock How. Enjoy the lovely images at http://www.keswick.u-net.com/ldp.htm
Looks like a nice little route for EtU from his northern base. Although I have to say some of it looks highly prone to tick infestation.
NLN
Well, perhaps TF could tell us if there's a connection?
Just looking at Ann Bowker’s website with piccies of a walk on 20th July from Gosforth Church over Ponsonby Fell via yes you guessed it Laverock How. Enjoy the lovely images at http://www.keswick.u-net.com/ldp.htm
Looks like a nice little route for EtU from his northern base. Although I have to say some of it looks highly prone to tick infestation.
NLN
Ticks and All That
How timely of Ed to provide us with a useful and informative post on ticks just before many of us will be in the Lake District, running or supporting those running at Borrowdale. The high bracken and vegetation make the chances of being targetted by the little blighters very probable.
I have to say that in all of our outings, Scotland, Lakes or local FSS and I have not yet hosted one of the wee beasties. I'm touching wood as I say this as I realise I am now dangerously tempting fate. I can only conclude that EtU must taste particularly good, attracting five in one outing! I wonder why that is?
Anyway back to EtU's useful advice. Uncannily, immediately after reading the post I had a look at the Great Outdoors website http://www.grough.co.uk and yes there it was another informative and useful article on ticks. Except this one specifically identifies the 'myths' surrounding the removal of ticks (advocated by EtU of course..) using hairspray and vaseline. The Grough article provides a link to a downloadable leaflet which you may find useful.
http://www.thebmc.co.uk/bmcNews/media/u_content/Tick_leaflet_08_%20final.pdf
Enjoy your weekend whatever you're doing.
NLN
How timely of Ed to provide us with a useful and informative post on ticks just before many of us will be in the Lake District, running or supporting those running at Borrowdale. The high bracken and vegetation make the chances of being targetted by the little blighters very probable.
I have to say that in all of our outings, Scotland, Lakes or local FSS and I have not yet hosted one of the wee beasties. I'm touching wood as I say this as I realise I am now dangerously tempting fate. I can only conclude that EtU must taste particularly good, attracting five in one outing! I wonder why that is?
Anyway back to EtU's useful advice. Uncannily, immediately after reading the post I had a look at the Great Outdoors website http://www.grough.co.uk and yes there it was another informative and useful article on ticks. Except this one specifically identifies the 'myths' surrounding the removal of ticks (advocated by EtU of course..) using hairspray and vaseline. The Grough article provides a link to a downloadable leaflet which you may find useful.
http://www.thebmc.co.uk/bmcNews/media/u_content/Tick_leaflet_08_%20final.pdf
Enjoy your weekend whatever you're doing.
NLN
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