Congratulations Ed, despite the awful weather which no-one back home believes - we all had a good time. Thanks for the pics Matt and JtE, at least it looks cold on those! No wonder I needed layers. I am utup on Saturday so look forward to seeing some of group then.

Thursday 28th May

Two days off from running is OK, but any more and withdrawal symptoms set in, and I'm already one and a half pounds heavier than I was this time time last week. Jogged round the garden last night in a large pair of road shoes which didn't impact the toe, so I'm UTUPing on Thursday ~ but don't expect too much.

EtU

Pics & Congrats

I intend to post the pics of which there are a lot, over a number of blogs, but first of all let me congratulate EtU on the magnificent achievement of wearing less clothing on the Fells than Nico(wlcotftn). This is something he will proudly recount in later years, as he sits with pipe and slippers, blanket over his knees and a cup of hot chocolate. "Oh! And I did the JN as a side issue" he'll say.

Let's face it there are quite a number who've done the JN but I know of only two who've done a wlcotftn. I'm staking my claim to be the other one. Perhaps one day we'll have enough members to have an annual dinner, where in keeping with the spirit of it all, we assemble wearing less clothing than Nico.

The Incorrigibles




Proof at Styhead of EtU's wlcotftn


GG(No! It's nothing to do with horses, Nico)



Kirk Fell


Scoat Fell


Steeple


Publish and be damned, and let's hope there's not too many space-lines.
More observations and pics to follow.

Well done Ed
It's still quite an illustrious exclusive band to have completed. As I wouldn't even contemplate it in 15hrs, never mind 12, I've got seven years to build up the requisite experience and even then I doubt I'd be capable.
Anyone fancy Paddy's Pole next Tuesday?

What Can I Say?

Thank you to to the whole squad. Whether you were at the sharp end, or organising the logistics, or just being there, it couldn't have happened without you.

As we know, the weather could have been better ~ main purpose of the outing was to top up the tan ~ but we got there.

When I sat in the lounge of April Cottage on Friday evening, having been asked to explain what I was up to, it was clear that Britain isn't one one nation, there's us, and there's the folk that don't run the fells.

Leg 1 was good, and we arrived at TF's brew station well inside the schedule, with Brother John trailing slightly but in there to the finish. Good luck on your BG Karl, the way you were going, it shouldn't be a problem.

Lost some time over to Dunmail, as expected, but still close to the schedule. Steve K replaced John at this point and was just there, feeding, chatting and moving us along. Felt strong up Steel Fell, then the long trail to High Raise, Rosset Pike, Bowfell, Esk Pike and Great End. Met Joss, Brother John and the ever sartorially elegant TF on the descent, to meet lots of folk at Styhead.

Then the pain began. Peter Ferris (God bless his little cotton socks) was lead torturer, and he applied the pressure, following the little known Wasdale Mafia routes to make up for my lack of ability, by picking the way round the stuff that we southerners can't cope with.

Very brief chat with John the Elder at Black Sail, then more pain through to the finish, with only 7 minutes to spare.

Then goodbyes and farewells and the Charters's and Yours Truly dallied a while in the Bridge at Santon before supper and a well earned sleep.

Sunday evening saw a small family gathering in the garden of the TaT where grandson Alfie asked why, if I had three black toenails on my left foot, I couldn't kick the ball with my other foot.

Special mention to Ian, 2 JNs in 5 weeks, is this a record?

Once again, a very sincere thank you to everyone.

EtU.

The Lad Did Good

Congratulations EtR on completing your Joss in what were, at times, very adverse weather conditions. Seeing you at Black Sail Hause I was amazed that you were able to battle on with so many miles in your legs. High winds and low temperatures are, of course, very energy sapping. I was very frustrated that I was not able to be with you for at least part of the final leg and was equally envious of those who could. I suppose that weather conditions and injuries are both down to the luck of the draw.

The End

All Nighters

When I was in my teens and early twenties the concept of an ‘All Nighter’, usually at Wigan Casino, was completely different to my current experience.  Having had two consecutive Saturday ‘All Nighters’ – you’ve heard about the Fellsman.  I thought you might like to read about John Fleetwood’s latest ‘Do’ which occurred last Sat/Sun.  Ian and I were part of his support team. 

Evening sun at St Johns in the Vale – before the night time torrents!

Read more at:

http://fss55at55.blogspot.com/2009/05/john-fleetwoods-24-marilyn-attempt.html

There’s also a good article on long distance scheduling complete with photo of YJ and Joss from last year – has Joss aged?

http://fss55at55.blogspot.com/2009/05/preparation-for-eds-joss.html

Thanks to JtE, Matt and EtR for a jolly good outing in the morning before travelling up to Patterdale -12.83 miles.

NLN

Well done NicO, usw
Just been having a look at the results and NicO's time is excellent as the winner barely broke 3 hours. Yet the first V60 was 3:14 which I suspect would be a challenge for Ed, YJ or Matt. What do you think - should we have a wfdbwgua works outing next year?
It looks like a nice race to do but you have to decide early - something I'm not known for. The info about the Swift Half suggests it is a good course for a PB yet it was won in 1:21 - maybe the real quickies are avoiding it?

Did my first track session for a few weeks last night and just coped with the 8 x 3 minutes, getting further than I expected but fading a little in the last few - but as always made sure was never late on the finish line. My back hurts today but that is probably from being slovenly afterwards. If we had the post training drinking at the club like the old days I 'm sure that I would recover better. A lot less there as I presume many will be doing the Jubilee tonight - I shall marshal.
May have to do an early run on Thursday so may well bump into you all on Winter Hill.

oh usw = und so weiter because at work the internet access goes through hosting in Germany so the blogger buttons and adverts etc are always German!

Thursday 21st

I'm UTUping, but only a gentle one up Two Lads.

And well done Nic'O, hope the knee recovers well.

EtR

Nico's Marathon

Nico, this is the news that we've all been hoping for. 3.52 in itself is superb but in consideration of your injury problem it is something quite special. Well done for sticking at it and congratulations. You deserve the glass of wine!

Finally did it - A marathon, so I am not the only one in the group who hasn't!! 3 hours 52, just under 9 min /mile I make it. Well pleased and thank you all for your advice and support.

It didn't look good this morning, my knee was still painful and I had a cracking migraine yesterday ( 9/10) which was still there this am but not as bad. At 9.00 I had ibuprofen and paracetamol which really helped the head and also the knee.

The race set off at 11 and I soon joined a friendly group of guys from Nottingham running 8.5min/mile and we all chatted happily until the painkillers wore off at 14miles. So it was another double dose and everything was amzingly ok until about 20mile marker when I just felt sore and tired, not exactly the wall but it wasn't a happy time for me. So it was a real relief to arrive under the 4 hour mark and even to finish.

David was a huge help, travelling from water point to water point with maxim energy drinks but I still only managed a pint. It's a glass of wine now to celebrate. See you all next Saturday for EtR's JN.

From one dodgy knee to another

Good luck Nico in whatever marathon you're doing tomorrow. Hope you don't aggravate your injury. We don't want you missing from the group for another lengthy spell.

Many thanks to nln and tf for advice re pain control. Sorry jte but the pain of missing this event will far exceed any damage I do. It's a cliff hanger for me. Thank you all for your good wishes, watch this space....

Previous Post

Missed out Key Word paracetamol was the combination with ibuprofen. Amended post - should now make some sense - Doh...

nln

Tomorrow and Saturday

UTUP for me.

The Marathon

Sorry about all that you have to say Nico. Unfortunately it comes down to deciding whether or not to risk further and possibly severe damage for the sake of the marathon. I do understand, however, how devastating it would be to pull out at this stage. My best advice is to act upon Norman's advice, whatever that might be. If you do run, then I hope you achieve all that you have strived for over the past weeks. You have tried very hard.

Recreational Drugs for Saturday

What a lightweight the pharmacist is, obviously not a fellrunner! Coming off Great Knoutberry on Sat my knee was unbearable and I honestly didn't know if I would be able to stand much more of the downhill stuff. Decided to press on to next checkpoint (as you do) consoling myself that two thirds of the climbing and therefore descent had been done. Had a bar and 400mg ibuprofen (which I had been taking every four hours, starting half an hour before the start). Didn't touch it really, but then on the advice of FSS took high strength (400mg I think) PARACETAMOL about 20 mins later. This combination seemed to really help and the pain was bearable to the finish, although the pace did slow and this could have helped as well.

By the way talking to Ian Kelly at the start and he said he had a nasty reaction to Voltorol (Diclofenic) so I won't be trying that one.

Hope this helps

NLN

Well done NLN, looked at results for last few years and the very best year by a huge margin had only 80% finishers! Says it all, most years it was a lot lower. Running in the dark and rain sounds pretty unpleasant, I am really glad you finished it and safely too.

Am feeling very gloomy about Saturday - pulled a ligament in my knee and it's quite sore all the time and only 2 days left to recover. On damage limitation it's a gets round now. How unlucky is that? Called in the chemist for some strong ibuprofen tabs to numb pain on run and the chemist wanted to know if I should be running on it. What a daft question to ask a fell runner. Also shouldn't take ibuprofen with bp tablets. Any ideas anyone? Do you know why TF?

Lakes trip sounds good fun, can't wait to get back to fun running and not races.

I'll let you know if I manage to run the big one. Nic O

Thursday 14th and Saturday 16th

I'm UTUPing both days...

...but guess that we'll be at least one short on Saturday ~ good luck on the White Peak Nic'O, on current form (injury permitting) you should be well up.

EtU

Well done to NLN, especially after your traumas the week before. Truly amazing how you all keep going for that length of time.

Need to thank YJ and EtU for the lovely evening run last night. Very sunny but a bit of windchill, so grateful my one pair of shorts were in the wash.

All the best to NicO for the marathon
TF
(from mobile phone)

Not As Warm As It Looked!

By a quite remarkable coincidence, TF had booked accommodation very close to the Swift Bros' planned start point for a recce of the Kirkstone to Dunmail section of the "Joss". Those involved in the outing, which in fact included neither Kirkstone, nor Dunmail, will recall that "close" refers to distance, not time ~ don't ask!

Rendezvousing in Ambleside soon after 5:30 the intrepid trio, TF, YJ and yours truly, set off up the Kirkstone motor road to attack Red Screes by the main ridge. This is a fine route, well defined for the most part, and sound underfoot. Although breezy, the evening was fine, with a clear blue sky. As we climbed the breeze increased and the temperature decreased until it became quite bitter (a bit of windchill, indeed!). Full sun on top of Red Screes then started to lose it as we descended to Scandale Pass ~ do you know that in Wainwrights "Lakeland Mountain Passes" of the 49 listed, no less than nine of them start with the letter "S"?

Saw the sun again as we passed Dove Crag, Hart, then finally to Fairfield. We had decided earlier that the fast fading light would make any further progress along the route unwise, and at that point we turned down the south ridge and finally lost the sun whilst contouring Heron Pike.

The wind was fairly unrelenting until we lost even more height and it seemed that the effects of the cold increased with the age of the runner. TF had been wary of too long an outing, having had a good run at Buttermere only the day before, but whilst she lagged slightly on the climbs, she soon came skipping past at the first suggestion of a descent.

The day wouldn't have been complete without YJ doing his falling over thing, unfortunately it was an awkward fall, overbending his already complaining knee; hope it recovers well, John, we need you on the 23rd.

We hit tarmac at Rydal and it seemed strange to be running by street lights in fell shoes.

Reverting to traditional roles, TF was sent home to put the kettle on, whilst the Swift Bros smartened themselves up in the car park to take mugs of tea in her rather fine, recently converted cottage. Twenty minutes later YJ and I were bemoaning the lack of a chippy in either Ambleside or Windermere.

Apart from YJ's fall, no chippy and the "bit of windchill" (tough bird that TF), it was a fine outing, thanks folks ~ stats to follow, courtesy of YJ's Garmin.

EtU

Well done NLN & FSS
Having just read your report and those on the FRA forum, it puts my little extended jog on the Malham Meander into perspective. At least I had the benefit of fairly decent tracks to run on and had I not had my detours would have been back in the dry before that refreshing shower on Saturday afternoon dampened my legs.

Fellsman - Finished

But not in the time we hoped for.  62 miles (plus –see below!) 11,00ft ascent

Conditions were pretty tough on the day.   We started off with only a mild drizzle which blew through before the summit of Ingleborough, but the biting strong wind was present throughout the day, with gusts on the tops taking your breath away -  and at the Checkpoint at Cray, literally the competitors tent!

Dropping down from Great Coum and Flinter Gill driving rain accompanied us to the 18 mile checkpoint at Dent, where a hot cheese pastie and beans were forced down to keep us going.  We lingered here not wishing to face the elements across Blea Moor, but with an easing of the rain we set out again.  Heartened at this stage by being well up on our schedule and with a sub-20hr time possible. 

We were grouped with three Midlanders at Fleet Moss at 37 miles in preparation for the night section but made it across Fleet Moss in daylight – a real bonus.  Our companions for the night were all novices and so Ian shouldered much of the responsibility for the navigation.  This he did splendidly with a slight detour around Middle Tongue.  But the pace completely fell away over atrocious bogs with Ian having to be extracted bodily on three or four occasions. 

At Cray one of our team decided to try to assist in navigation which proved to be a bit of a nightmare with us losing a goodly amount of time trying to locate the path off Buckden Pike.  But by far the biggest catastrophe was taking the wrong direction off the final summit of Great Whernside resulting in a huge detour back up to the trig point at Capplestone Gate, before the long awaited descent to Threshfield.

The last time we did the Fellsman we would have been happy with the time of 23.32, and indeed our companions were pleased, but we both felt a little dejected not to have achieved a better time.

Winner Jez Bragg 10.50 and first lady Sarah Rowell 13.45.  About a third of the field did not finish with folk apparently dropping out at the Hill Inn after 6 miles, makes you wonder what they expected.

Lesson learned – damage to the feet is much easier to conceal than that to the face!  Hoping that a week’s rest will allow me to join whoever’s out this Saturday UTUP (don’t wait).

Good luck Nic’O for Saturday – you’ve done the work so enjoy the day!

NLN

Apologies


Apologies to YJ & Nico for having them wait on Saturday. Went out for a run on Thursday afternoon for a trial run on steep terrain but had a particularly busy time from thereon and never got to the blog until Friday evening. As there was nothing posted I thought no-one was out on Saturday. I shouldn't think. It's never done me any good. See you this Saturday.

Matt

Are LDWA Events Long enough?
Rather than squelching across from Winter Hill to Noon Hill on Saturday I decided to go for something a bit longer so got up reasonably early on Saturday and headed over to Kirkby Malham in good time for the runners' start time of 9.30. Got there just after 9 and then found the car park so returned to register by which time the final batch of runners had gone - 9.30 was obviously a latest time for runners as I later found out that as long as they were delayed sufficiently for the checkpoints to be in place, they could go (walkers went at 8.30).
No problem and setting off about 9.25 I could see a runner in front of me who caught just before the first checkpoint at Malham, and it wasn't long before we caught the sweepers and we started to pass walkers.
Let's do a bit more #1 - It's at least 30 years since I went up Gordale Scar and when I got there I suddenly found that my knees didn't fancy one bit of it and rather than risk injury I decided to double back (as did a couple more - but they decided to call it a day and switch to the mini-meander route) and find an alternative route to the next checkpoint at the field centre on the northern shore of the tarn.
Let's do a bit more #2 - Moved past a few more walkers (some for a second time!) and then ended up with no-one in front of me and managed to take myself onto the road back into Malham for some reason, adding on a further 3 miles but also 700 ft of descent followed by 600ft of climb instead of a what would have been fairly easy running.
Back onto the recommended route and the forecast of only light winds with a 10% chance of rain became a full blown gale!
The bonus was that after nearly 7 hours and approaching 30 miles, I was still able to run at a reasonable speed and my knees were okay - all good work for the future (I hope).
As an event I would highly recommend it - lots of cakes and nice food at the end and plenty of people to chat to on the way round and even if you only do the stated distance of 23 miles (which I think is what I'll go for next year) great value for £8 (that's only £3 more than the Astley Park 5k!!!!!!). I would even suggest it as a training run as I would expect to complete the route in under 5 hours on a reasonable day.

10 Miles / 4000 Feet

That's my offering for this weekend. Lower Barn to Sheep's Back, then 20 reps. up and down, each of 200 feet of ascent / descent. Back to the Lower Barn.

Case of the missing blogs

Problems with posting blogs by YJ during the week may have been due to my computer rehashing an old version and not updating to show a current posting. Could have been operator error. If this appears I may have solved the mystery.

And then there were two....


Problems in posting a blog during the week nearly prevented a much depleted Saturday squad meeting up on 9th May but the value of UTUP paid off and Nico and YJ arrived at the lower barn within seconds. Rumours that Matt was to make a comeback proved inaccurate and having given him 5 minutes grace the two of us set off for Healey Nab, White Coppice, Abbey Village, Roddleworth, Catherines Edge and Dock Bucket Farm.

At the Belmont Bull the Belmont Winter Hill race preliminaries were just starting and after a brief (very brief) discussion we decided not to wait and do the race. This was the parting of the ways, Nico opting to return to the Lower Barn by the direct route past the allotments and YJ choosing to get in one extra climb via the Ramp, returning via the trig point, wooden bridge, down the sheep's back and past the Top barn.

Stats (Garmin): Distance, 18.69, time 3hr 55min, pace 12 min 36 secs per mile, climbing 2,900ft.

It was YJ's best run for some time and as I arrived feeling a little jaded it proved the value of squad training for our long runs. Thanks Nico and good luck next weekend

Just Testing

See previous posting by EtR

Tomorrow & Can you Post?

There is a suggestion that posts are not being accepted. If you see this, it's working for me, how was it for you?

Also, there may be an outing UTUP.

EtR

With a Little Help from My Friends

April was my last full month of preparation for J Day. Planned mileage of 215 was achieved with only three hours to spare, giving the scheduled average of 50 miles per week. Actual week by week miles varied between a high of 60 and a low of 43, this latter figure resulting from missing Saturday 25th due to a work commitment.

Performance varied greatly, with many days of feeling very tired and the odd one of feeling that real progress was being made. On one of my better days I met FSS who declared that although the approaching figure looked like me it couldn't be because it was going so well! A back-handed compliment if ever there was one!

Some weight has finally been shed; BMI on the last weigh-day in April was 23.5 against a post Christmas high of 24.4, but still only half way to the 22.5 target. No further significant reduction is envisaged as the taper starts after next Monday evening's Lakeland trip.

FSS's successful crossing was a good boost as I felt good on the day and it would have been difficult not to be encouraged by the general feeling of well-being.

Support now fully organised, except for final logistics from Dunmail, which I understand are still being arranged. I will write up full arrangements and email to all interested parties shortly.

Special thanks go to NLN (No Longer Not unscathed/) for sacrificing her good looks to the cause ~ good luck in the Fellsman.

EtU (or is it finally EtR?)

Drained on the trail

After 17 years of running most of the Chorley 4 Series each year, a new event beckoned in Chorley as the road race was replaced by a two lap 4.4 mile trail race through Astley Park. Got there in plenty of time, got some stretching in and started the race. It wasn't long before I realised that I wasn't firing on all cylinders and still had Monday's race in my legs. 36 minutes of not agony but certainly not ecstasy followed. The results show that I was behind a few people I would normally beat but don't be fooled by Albert being behind me - he was jogging round with his daughter. I think for next month, trail shoes would be better than road shoes unless it is bone dry - tonight had stretches where they would have been preferable. I shall be resting tomorrow and am undecided between Belmont Winter Hill, the Malham Meander or nothing on Saturday.

BTW, results are now available for Wray Caton so I've added to my post of Monday.

Saturday 9th May

It seems as though most are otherwise engaged on Saturday which could leave me as the only squad member on duty. If so I will make an earlier start from the lower barn and probably try to get as far as Darwen Tower. It would be preferable to have company and the extra motivation that comes with it.

7th, 9th & 11th

7th Utup

9th Off on Hols to Ambleside for a week, have to scribe numbers at our 5K first though.

11th Room for a little one?

TF

ps didn't do Coiners as have had a cold, saving myself for Buttermere on Sunday!

Thursday 7th, Saturday 9th & Monday 11th

UTUPing Thursday.

Working Saturday.

YJ and I are planning to make an evening raid on Red Screes, Fairfield and that one in between whose name I can never remember, setting off late afternoon on Monday. Anyone else fancy it?

EtU

This Thursday and Weekend

Utup for me on Thursday. Same for you EtU?

Saturday is out for me as a visit to my son in Carlisle is on the cards. I will have to have my weekend run sometime on Sunday.

Totally Upstaged

Just when you think you’ve got an impressive injury you find yourself totally upstaged. A colleague's mother was taken off the Ingleton waterfalls route by Mountain Rescue Team with a broken ankle on Friday and is now in Lancaster Hospital recovering!! What can I say!

In response to my query re substance of choice, here are some contributions from the staff room: a) Seems so obvious but Vaseline - a pre-requisite for any kitbag for injury prevention for all those oh so sensitive areas b) Voltorol tablets(diclafenic), now available without prescription, great anti-inflammatory, although needs to take with food as can aggravate stomach: c) Red Bull (sugar free) gives a massive dose of caffeine and no nasty artificial colours or flavouring – although ProPlus is probably easier to carry! d)Guranja tablets (used by a friend of a friend!!!)– I think that is how you spell it – they look like big horse tablets - not sure what these are for!

Last one sounds very iffy! I add disclaimer for any of the above as I have not tried them myself, particularly the last one. But will try to get b) for Sat!

NLN

Saturday morning saw TF, NicO, John t E and Hazel head off from the barn to the canal at Adlington and along the canal for a slightly different, but very enjoyable, run than normal. It's opened up quite a few possibilities for some future runs.

Your adventures in the Lakes sound harrowing and have inspired me to confirm that Sudocrem is indeed a product of excellence. Being particularly good on small cuts it is the main ingredient of my equine first aid kit. In winter it is great for treating mud rash and cracked heels both on the horses and on myself!!

That said, it was no use this weekend when Jazz got her legs caught in the sheep netting and took the skin off the insides of both back legs. To enable its effectiveness requires putting it on to the wound. Difficult when wounds are on fast moving dangerous weapons objecting to being treated. Finally managed to spray lavender oil on as was told this is also good for healing.

I'll be utup next Saturday, if anyone there,
NicO

Post Script to Saturday and Excuse for Monday

David reports that Dickie "chocks away!" Woodrow gained a further half hour on his schedule, after we saw him leaving Bowfell, to complete his crossing in about 16 and a half hours.

Sorry about the no show today t'Y, but the race was to be part of a family outing and when the weather was so inclement, the whole caboodle had to be aborted.

FRA miles remain at 19.25.

EtU

Where was Ed?

Looking forward to Ed keeping me on my toes at Wray Caton but he was nowhere to be seen!

Managed to remain the fastest fellrunner in the family but I'm sure those days are numbered. Weatherwise it was pretty crap, especially for the spectators but I risked running in shorts and no waterproof and was warm enough. Underfoot it wasn't perfect for me but then it wasn't terrible either and this must be the only fell race where I managed to hold my place on the descent (think I dropped one place but really ought to have pulled that back and three others on the final run in) - it's just that final little steep bit down to the bridge which gets me. Suzanne was first lady (overall) but otherwise not much Horwich presence in the senior race although the juniors dominated the prizegiving. I'll post up a bit more when I get the results. 

(May 6th) Results now showing and although my finishing time of 1:07:37 was slightly down on last year, but no less than everyone else (apart from my mate on the soul scene Ali Welsh - but then he took VR a couple of months ago and now just works a couple of days a week, resulting in him improving by 2 minutes and going from 22nd to 4th - on that basis I expect JtE, YJ and Mat Shticklegs to consistently beating the rest of us). Diane managed 1:13:43 passing quite a few on the descent - I'm sure she would have been faster had she been wearing fell shoes rather than trail shoes.

Recreational Drugs and Fell Running

Just to update you on the fallout, as it were– it looks much worse than it feels!  The sickening crunch of bone on rock convinced me that the nose was broken, but I now think  Ed and John’s initial assessment was correct, as I can prod it and sneeze heartily (good trick) without excruciating pain.  So no lasting damage (I hope) but one helluva shiner on the left with a rather less spectacular one on the right- I won’t go into details on the nose front, suffice to say it’s not pretty.  Good taste prevents me from posting an image, thankfully nobody had a camera yesterday.

At the time, my initial reaction of anger and frustration (sorry Ed) with myself for being so damned clumsy, gave way to relief that eyes and teeth were intact and that I wasn’t in too much agony to carry on with the run.  This being an important tester for Ed prior to his Joss.   Ed being just behind me post-impact, did his best to hide his shock, but I could tell he was rattled by my appearance – John having gone through much worse himself, in recent times, looked relieved when he could see I could move and speak coherently.  Thanks again guys – we’re developing a sort of a pattern here, me getting into some sort of scrape and you two gallantly coming to my rescue!  Anyway back to the story… so apart from the blood – of which there was a copious quantity things weren’t so bad.  Not having a mirror, (note to put one in first aid kit!!- which I don’t carry!) I couldn’t see the damage but I knew from the reactions I was getting from strangers that it must be bad,  one guy turned to his buddy as I ran past and just let out a long GEEEEZ!!.  I couldn’t wait to get to the Ladies toilets at the Wasdale Head, where the mirror revealed much less of a horror than my mind had conjured up.  Still managed to scare two geordies to death ‘though when I ran in, almost knocking one of them over to get to the mirror.

Sod’s law would have it that we were out for supper last night, not to a restaurant – that would have been impossible, but over to friends at Belmont.  I phoned ahead, to give a bit of a warning of what to expect, and to give them permission to laugh out loud when I arrived.  All went well, good night was had by all – today’s been pretty sluggish, but I think that’s more to do with the wine rather than the head bashing.  By the way Nicole we could see your place from Steve and Eileen’s conservatory!

Anyway the point is – thank goodness for recreational drugs, a) Ibuprofen, the drug of choice for fellrunners - mitigates the general damage incurred by prolonged violent muscle abuse; followed closely by ProPlus, for a general ‘livener’ – akin to consuming several shots of espresso without the after effects, gets you through the night section of long events and helps on the drive home; but perhaps one of my all time favourites, and only really appreciated by the cognoscenti; c) Sudocreme this is truly awesome stuff for chafing, abrasion, grazes and all general wounds - its healing properties are legend, and having used rather a lot this weekend I can only say it’s just wasted on infant nappy rash!

Which only begs the question – what’s your substance of choice, on or off the hill?

NLN

PS Not out next Sat – Fellsman, just more opportunities to use all of the above!

Pauline Fell down, But She Got Up Again

A fine and eventful outing this morning from Wasdale Head. We met Dave P-T just after the arranged time of 9:15 and after using the facilities at the Wasdale Head Inn we (NLN, YJ, P-T Dave and I) set off up to Sty Head at 9:45. We didn't run, but walked at a forced march pace to arrive at the stretcher box at 10:35. Conversation on the ascent touched on Julia Bradbury several times, and we were amused to find that Dave had amassed fell groupies who muttered things like "it's 'im off tele innit?" as we passed.

Without slowing (apart from pausing whilst Dave signed autographs), we made Sprinkling Tarn and eventually after passing Esk Hause, continued to the top of Rosset Gill, where we turned south for Bowfell. Bowfell was gained without incident and we subsequently set off for Esk Pike. The Bowfell to Esk Pike route is not my sort of terrain so I was pleased to find that we made it in 23 minutes against my schedule of 29.

All was going well from there until Pauline lost concentration near the top of Great End and attacked the local geology with the bridge of her nose. As she sat up I could see that she had gashed said extremity and that blood was dripping copiously from the end. Thoughts of helicopters and begging surgical dressings from passing para-medics flashed through my mind, but further examination revealed that whilst there was an external wound that was hemorrhaging, most of the blood was from an internal nose bleed. Bravely Pauline regained her feet and we continued on to Great End Summit.

At that point, it became apparent that Pauline was not not really one of the guys, but was mainly concerned that she was going out for dinner that evening and would be slightly less picturesque than usual. Slight reduction in the level of of sympathy from the Swift bros.

From there we endured an awful descent to Sty Head down scree filled gullies, only to be told by our TV personality that this wasn't the route for me and that on the day we should back-track nearly to Esk House. Wassat all about then?

At that point the sun came out and everything seemed to improve.

We jogged back to Wasdale Head and then whilst YJ got himself organised and Pauline got her nose organised, I trotted half way along the lake to get a couple of more miles in.

A good long morning out; hope that Pauline's dinner companions found something to talk about other than her in-your-face injury.

As we used to say when I was little "If I had a nose like your nose, I'd put my nose where nobody knows".

Thanks guys.

EtU.

OOPs

A slight mis-calculation on the FRA miles, I missed out Askham (8.5m).

Total for TF is now 65.9m

Can't have EtU stealing a march on this competition, so I think I'll do Coiners on Monday next week. The extra 2hr lie-in and the fact that it's a 1/4m further sealed the decision.

May make it to UTUP tomorrow. Anyone doing Saturday? I can only manage a 2hr effort this week.

TF

Wray Caton Moor

See you on the line t'Y ~ don't get mixed up with the scarecrows when they do the judging, coming third behind Worzel Gummidge and Aunt Sally would do nothing for your street cred!

Seem to remember you beating me on the run-in at this one a few years ago.

Have to do a bit of racing now and then to reduce TF's ever increasing lead in my (foolish) challenge.

EtU

Upcoming races
Having hopefully got this cold/flu out of the way (bit of swine that was, haha), I shall hopefully be back running and racing. Possibly UTUPing tomorrow but not certain.
Had I not had a break, Coniston would have been a nice excursion but instead I shall have to wait for a race with my daughter on Monday as Diane has decided to also run at Wray Cayton. I think I shall have to be five minutes ahead of her on the ascent otherwise she will race past me coming down. Anyone else fancy doing it? It's always a good day out with lots of things going on at the show and around the village.
Can't decide whether to do Belmont Winter Hill the following week or possibly the Malham Meander LDWA which allows runners - has anyone experienced the event? Oh and the revamped Chorley 4 starts next Wednesday.

Tomorrow

Me too, EtU.

Thursday 30th April

I'm UTUPing.

EtU

Ian's Joss

Thanks Ian for the slide show. A superb record of a day to remember, I'm sure, by everyone involved.

Kinder Downfall 10m/2500ft

Another 10m in the bag, so that makes 57.4m for the year so far. EtU will be pleased to know I'm having a break from racing next weekend.

I need to thank YJ for the tip about the Vaseline, worked a treat today, not a spot of sunburn anywhere. I think I managed about the 2hr mark +/- a few seconds. Finishers from 220+ don't have a space on the results board, but guess we'll know soon enough.

So as I bettered last years time, I treated myself to a visit to the Garden Centre on the way home to acquire three new Hostas. These are to replace my prize specimens that the slugs decimated (didn't even leave the stalks!) last year. If the little b*****s take so much as a munch or even a nibble out of these ones, it'll be war.

TF

More Photos from Ian's Joss




Click on the little black square with the arrows for full size slide show

Tomorrow

See you there JtE

NLN

Tomorrow

UTUP for me.

Not a Good Day

Having prepared my headline for this evening's abortive attempt at Old Harpers trig ~ "Disappointed Trigpointers" You will see that I was pre-empted by TF; she also put me firmly in my place regarding our respective positions in our (I use the word loosely) FRA mileage challenge ~ hope your cake burnt!

Nevertheless, overall, it was a good outing and we saw a bit of fell and I got in a few miles and possibly a couple of recruits for J Day.

EtU

PS I don't really hope you burnt (burned?) your cake.

FRA Miles

Having been prompted by EtU earlier this evening, I'm required to update my race mileage. So thus far

Kinder Trial 11m
Lads Leap 5.9m
Midgely Moor 5m
Liver Hill 5m
Anniversary Waltz 11.5m
Coledale 9m

Total 47.4m

I was introduced to the trig just off Matchmoor Lane this evening. Introduced needs to be applied very loosely as we weren't quite in nodding distance before we were spotted by the local farmer from his quad bike. A big bloke this farmer, so me and Steve let EtU do all the talking (it was his idea we were in the field anyway) and after much forelock tugging we were let off with a caution. We all live to run another day.

TF

Red Throated Diver

NicO and I saw a pair of birds on Greendale Tarn that I think were Red Throated Divers. The book says "Breeds on small lakes, usually within flighting distance of the sea" That fits doesn't it? A rare bird in England usually breeding in Scotland.

Sunday's Fire on the Pike

Noticed a big black 'shadow' below the Pike last night as I drove over to Horwich. This was the cause. Apparently a discarded cigarette being the culprit. Just shows how dry everything is just now.

NLN

Fun in the Sun

Great day for Ian’s Joss, makes a change!  Thanks to all supporters -made all the difference on the day.  For your training records Ed, our outing gave us 12.79 miles with 5,341ft of climbing.  Looking forward to the next one – not long to go.  Rhiannon took a fantastic portrait of Joss which you can see on Ians Blog at  fss55at55.blogspot.com – also tribute to you all on Ian’s account posted by Norman on RMI blog - more photos to come once they’ve been sorted.

NLN

C'mon t'Yorkshireman, Spill

You've wet my appetite, and most probably everyone else's. What is this ultra that you have in mind with 550 miles and 50,000 ft of climbing spread over 50 days ~ possibly a Pyrenean traverse?

Not sure I could get time off for the full support, but keep me posted.

I'm UTUPing Thursday and looking for miles and climbing.

EtU

Well done Ian

Don't think i could contemplate such a feat but I still have my target of a 550m with 50,000ft ascent (but in 50 days) but not this year now - determined to do it next year though. Intend to get more days in the Lakes this year so let me know whenever anyone wants to go up (happy to drive).

Hopefully I will have got rid of this stinking cold by Thursday so may make UTUP.

Well done Ian, fabulous day out in the Lakes. Thank-you for being able to share the experience.

Just EtU to complete the set now, unless NLN or NicO fancy a go!

TF

Ian's Joss

My congratulations as well Ian. A perfect day to be greatly enjoyed by everyone involved. This, for me, is the best that fell running can create.

















The End


















Job Done

Well Done...

...FSS, you were due a good day, the elements having conspired against you on all your previous outings. Joss's "Crossing" can never be easy, but you looked in fine form and it was a privilege to be out there with you on such a magnificent day.

Let's hope you get similar conditions for your "56".

EtU

Is it me at AW?

Referring to the question posed by TF on Tuesday, I think it probably is me 5th from the right going up the hill - it certainly was the route I took and may well have been a bit ahead as I'd gone quite well up the hill, looking forward to a planned refreshment stop as soon as I found a suitable café - for some reason there wasn't one so I made use of a suitable rock to get my drink, sandwiches and ice cream out whilst many then caught me up.

Anniversary Waltz

A good start to a week in the Lakes.

I've just got back today from a week at the northern end of the Lake District, staying on the edge of Bowscale Fell, not too far from Blencathra.

Not exactly spoilt for choice, the only race available was the Anniversary Waltz on Easter Saturday. After much forethought, I decided I was just about up for it, especially as there appeared to be no timeout points and the weather had a chance of being reasonable when I registered online on the Monday before the race.

I also had the luxury of the race HQ being only 15 miles from the cottage at Bowscale. It was a good job we set off in reasonable time as the queue heading into Stair was quite lengthy. Anyway the race itself was very well organised and the start was a bit like a cross country with a lap of the field to try to string out the 500 or so runners (think there were 570 entered but only 469 finished). Located TF and also Suzanne who entered even closer to the deadline than I did, but Tony and Albert were elsewhere in the the throng.

It is a good steady easy climb up the valley before the first bit of hard work begins with the ascent of Robinson and  I think I managed to hold myself back as I was very concerned at blowing up due to my lack of recent experience of running over 2 hours. The trouble is that every climb has to be balanced by a descent so it wasn't long on the descent before TF caught me up and passed me. As the slope eased off and the ascent of Hindscarth started we ran together. The descent from Hindscarth is much more gentle so I was much more at ease now and pulled back a few places by Dale Head.

From Dale Head the real problem started - I didn't follow my pre-race plan and seemed to meander somewhat which probably lost me a few minutes, not many but enough to mean sub 3 hours was unlikely. TF was well away by now so I didn't expect to see her again until the finish. I'd found my level and was gaining again on the climbs and losing a bit on the descents until Catbells was reached where the descent again meant I lost a few places.

Overall I was happy with run - it is only half a mile short of being an A long and I wasn't last. In my book that's an achievement. I was also full of running at the finish, having taken two minutes out of someone who caught me on the descent of Catbells.  

I'd done quite  a bit of preparation for the race but there was one thing I'd not recce'd - the free food and beer after race - I should have headed much more quickly to the Village Hall but at least there was plenty left. 

TF had finished and was well gone, later to be seen dashing between the hostelries (or other dens of iniquity aka mountain shops?) of Keswick and no doubt planning her next thrashing of me on the fells.

Results (now including split times) at the AW site.

The race set me up for some good training in the following days with a nice run up Bowscale then over to Blencathra and back via Ballentyne Crags and another route which initially was very gentle to Skiddaw House then back via the paths that skirt Threlkeld and Scales which you can make as hard as you like - I made it harder than anticipated but still got me a good 4 hour run.

So I'm back in time for the Club Presentation where I receive the first thing I've won since I joined the club in 1990 (although I did actually win the Christmas handicap that year but you don't get a great big trophy for that). However, it will be tinged with sadness as I see that on Tuesday Steve Barlow lost his battle with cancer. Ed and JtE have obviously known Steve even longer than I have and I think YJ will have also known Steve well so it is a very sad day for Horwich RMI Harriers and all the people that have known Steve as a great runner, an active club member since the age of 12 (36 years ago) and one of the most warm-hearted people you could ever wish to meet.

 

No, not that mystery path...

Thanks TF for your valiant effort in attempting to understand! The mystery path strikes off the left hand side of the normal route from Great Hill to Piccadilly . I think it is somewhere between Pimms and Piccadilly but all will be verified in due course.

A Wheatear EtU. Not seen one locally yet.

Thursday 16th April

I'm running from home unless anyone wants to UTUP

EtU

Mystery Path

Remember the new route I took you all on from Tockholes to Wheelton? When I left you at the stile at the bottom of Great Hill I followed the fence line for a bit and then took a diagonal trod to the drop onto the 'mystery path' to get back to the car park. I noticed a couple of trods off to the right and made the assumption they headed up to Spitlers, but wasn't sure where they would meet it. Now I know where one of them goes. The other one was probably a bit closer to the two streams on the right of the path as I ran it (GR654188)

Mystery Woman

Sorry EtU don't know who she was, but as I was bringing up the rear at this point that should narrow it down a bit. She could claim it's a bit 'cheeky' to be commenting on her running fashion faux pas especially from someone who owns a pair of Union Jack running shorts.

I think T'Y was on the right side diagonal 5th one from the edge, long sleve red top, black shorts (subject to confirmation).

TF

To Help You Sleep

Saturday was YJ's and my 11th Pike double, we started in 1996, his BG year, to keep his miles up, and we missed only in 2001 (FMD), 2004 (YJ's "gentleman's" operation) and 2008 (adverse weather warning). Lost count now, but this year was probably my 30th consecutive Pike race (will confirm when I access my archive). PB was 22:23 (sorry Andrew) in 1993 at the ripe old age of 46. Interesting (to me) in that in the intervening years my ascent time has deteriorated by 31.9%, but my descent by only 20.5%.

Has t'Yorkshireman prepared his Anniversary Waltz report yet? If you don't want to know the results look away now ~ well done TF! Is the identity of the lady with the VPL in TF's photo known?

Just to re-assure the team that I'm putting in the work for J Day, last week's training consisted of:
Monday - Two Lads and Pike - 9
Tuesday - Ditto - 9
Wednesday am - Black Combe - 4
Wednesday pm - Blackrod & Crown Lane - 6
Thursday - Meander over Winter Hill with TF - 7
Friday - Pike - 7
Saturday - Big Pike, Little Pike - 13
Sunday - Pike - 7.
Total miles ~ 62, time on feet ~ 16 hours (ish)
Climbing ~ 10,000ft (ish)

Oh, yes, JtE, we saw a Wheatear near Rosset Pike.

EtU

Rooting Out The Paths

Thanks NLN (and FSS) for the clever map. Hope your head's ok by now NLN!

Yes, the route we took away from Belmont Road does join the 'normal' route to Great Hill. I have used it many times. If you imagine approaching Great Hill from Piccadilli, you come to a stile followed immediately by a deep ravine with a stream in the bottom. It is at this stile that the route in question joins. This, therefore, must be Pimms and the mystery path must be between this point and Piccadilly. I will recce it.

I think that we joined Spitlers at a point beyond your route to Ammunition Corner. It might have a small cairn already but, yes, we will build a big one.

I wonder if all of this makes sense to anyone other than NicO, you and me!

Too Much Time on my Hands

I must have to do this, just had a crash course/Master class from FSS in import/exporting stuff from SportsTracks to Memory Map and I have to say my head is battered.  But I thought you might find it interesting. JtE in particular in pursuance of the mystery path.

(Click to enlarge)

You can see from our actual route (red line) that we picked up the footpath from Belmont Road and then departed from it to pick up the trod that was visible over Bromiley Pastures bringing us directly to Spitlers, but some way along.  The path over the ridge that we would normally have taken is not actually a footpath at all, but look where the designated path takes us back to – yes Pimms and the mystery path ergo this should give us another interesting and alternative route from Great Hill, avoiding the road and picking up the path over to Spitlers.   The path we couldn’t find yesterday is not marked on the map either, perhaps we could build a little cairn some time!

NLN

Where's Gordon?

Just thought I'd post this while we wait for Gordon's report. I think it's only fair that I should allow him to do the write up for this one as it was his first fell race of the year.

If you get really impatient results should appear here http://www.anniversarywaltz.co.uk/ some time soon.

TF

Mystery Path etc.

Thanks for the reports NLN and EtU. The fitness is certainly back EtU. Well done.

The mystery path to which NLN refers might start at, or near to, a place named on the map as "Pimms". Approx. grid ref. 652194. This path turns about until it hits the Belmont Road a short distance northish of Piccadilly. However, I know that this is far too vague to be acceptable and I will, therefore, go and sort it out on site.

Thanks girls for the Saturday run. Glad you were both a bit tired!

There Are Days to Forget...

..and days to remember ~ this was one to remember. I don't like early starts, and setting my alarm for 5:30 didn't make me happy. But as soon as I left the house and saw the sky, it was obvious that the weather was going to be kind to us. As we drove along Windermere and got our first view of the Langdales we could see it was special. Lots of cloud, but white cloud and thinning, with sun peeping through and highlighting the high fells.

We parked at the ODG and set off towards Rosset Gill. There was cloud, but as we gained height the cloud receded and apart from one brief spell we were in clear air. The rocks were dry and we summitted in just over 2 hours. Slightly overlong socialising and photo session (see below) on Scafell Pike summit lost us some time ~ a Portugese couple and a couple from New Zealand ~ on the basis of this very limited sample, NZ women are prettier than Portugese, although Portugese women are very pleasant (she took the photo).

Then we turned for home and on the way took in the wildness of Angle tarn against the backdrop of Esk Pike Crags. (New camera, must learn to hold it straight)

Then back to the car in just over/under four hours ~ depending on whose timing system you use.

Bit of a rush back down the motorway to Bamber Bridge, where YJ turned for home and I managed to make it to the crown just as Jane Bland was closing down registration.

Completed the race in 28 something, 2 minutes faster than '07 and and '08.

The sort of day that almost rates as the most fun you can have with your clothes on.

EtU

Friday Afternoon, Saturday Morning/Afternoon

Friday saw the two of us doing our once a year road race the scenic and hilly (just under 1000ft) Caldervale 10.  The promised rain held off until we were heading back home down the motorway, so conditions were good.  I was very pleased to be within 40 seconds of last year’s time but felt stronger at the finish.  Neither of us are any good at judging pacing so maybe could have gone a bit quicker between the hills.  Legs felt heavy from last weekend’s climbing so 1.29.33 was a bit of a surprise coming 7 out of 14 FV45s.  FSS has a more detailed race report and I know YJ will be interested in seeing the data posted there on splits taken from the Garmin via Sportstrack.

http://fss55at55.blogspot.com/2009/04/calder-vale-10.html

So it was with some trepidation I set off to the Lower Barn for our usual Saturday outing.  YJ and EtU were paying their usual Easter respects to the highest mountain in England before the possibility of the Pike Race  -  TF had other plans (looking forward to hearing all about it guys).  That left Nic’O, JtE and me. 

It was decided to do one of our usual routes in reverse – out to White Coppice, Brinscall, Great Hill where we had a lovely sit in the sunny shelter, with none of us eager to move.  At this point I was feeling much better for the leg stretch, the miles and the climbs made much easier by the easy camaraderie of good company, sunshine and the light breeze.  I foolishly suggested descending Great Hill in the direction of Belmont, thinking no-one would go for that one!  It was agreed quickly (too quickly).  We found ourselves on a slightly different descent path at the bottom which seemed much better underfoot and discovered a mystery path higher up which JtE might research for us. 

Back along the road to pick up the footpath to Spitlers.  Once on the path we took an earlier detour along a trod to bring us, eventually, onto the Edge but a little too far along to pick up our usual short cut to miss out Horderns and the road.  Reaching the road, then, at Horderns my legs finally petered out and it was a bit of a struggle to keep the momentum going to the end.  But a great morning – let’s hope we have similar conditions next Saturday.

Route below gave us 13.99m (I think we’ll call that 14) and 1,873ft of ascent.

A quick dash home for a shower and then back to Horwich to marshall the Pike Race.  Weather held good and after a gallant swap of duties by FSS, Nic’O and I found ourselves at the second gate along the track up to the farm.

Everyone seemed to be having a good time!  Especially EtU fresh from his morning exploits.

Ed’s looking good off the hard training – oh no this one’s Andrew, son of Nic’O and David, storming home in 22.25 51st overall and 4th U18.

How was it for you Ed?

NLN

Easter Saturday

It's UTUP for me.

First Fell Race of the Year

Unless my memory is playing tricks, this Saturday will be my first fell race of the year. As we are up in the Lakes, I've had to go for the only one in the area - the Anniversary Waltz. Not sure if it is a bit ambitious for me with my lack of racing this year, but it is that or nothing. It does look an excellent route so I'm hoping for good weather and will try not to burn out to soon - nice photos of last year's race here (on flickr). Well at least I got in a couple of hours on Sunday with the Rivi school - White Coppice - Great Hill - Horden Stoops and back via Georges Lane & Chinese Gardens route. Also managed my first track session of the year tonight and fared better than I expected.

So for all those doing the Pike Race, have a good'un - is Ed doing both Pikes? I may see one or two of you at the presentation a week on Friday where after 19 years of trying (have I ever tried?), I've actually won something, thanks to a rare occasion that Bazza was slower than me in a race.

(added 8/4) I see that TF is also entered. There is also a Frank Wood (u/a) entered. Could that be our Frank - age category fits. And with 500 running and fair weather prospects I will hopefully not get lost. Target 3hrs. Nice to see JtE burning up the track last night.

Kinder Downfall Recce

Still OK with me for next Wed.  Just tell me when and where to meet and I’ll be there.  Your route alternative sounds good TF, thanks for the planning.

NLN

This Week

UTUPing Thursday 9th, Big Piking am Saturday 11th (there's room in the car for more) , Little Piking pm.

Good luck t'Yorkshireman at t'Anniversary Waltz; it's a good course, although the approach to the fell is a bit long.

EtU

Kinder Downfall Recce

As promised a map for the Kinder Downfall route for next week, well a link to a map http://www.cs.man.ac.uk/temples-bin/hc.pl?a=img&d=hc&f=downfall

Is Weds 15th still ok with everyone? I don’t think I’ll be up to doing much more than 3hrs with it being sandwiched between races for me on Sat 11th and Sat 18th. This route doesn’t have a particularly good finish (too much tarmac) so I’d like to suggest an alternative way back from Edale Cross to take in the trig at Brown Knoll, past South Head and Mount Famine, then through the woods at Elle Bank.

Depending on how long it takes us to get to the point where the Kinder Trog (different race) Route turns off at Peep-o-day and how tired my little legs are, we could always make a foray onto the other side of the main road and I could show you the ‘Big Stone’.

Anyone want to make a stab at suggesting a meeting point and a setting off time?

Askham Fell Race 8.5m/1800ft Sat 4th April

I was similarly affected by the weather on Saturday and a bit cold when I got back and I’d only been out for a bit short of 2hrs. The organiser had gone to a lot of effort for this race, even to the point of flagging a safe route up to Arthur’s Pike. Don’t suppose decapitated fellrunners would look too good on your first event! Got a good view of Ullswater on the way out, and a good view of the inside of my jackets’ hood on the way back.

Route map here

http://homepages.cs.ncl.ac.uk/nigel.thomas/Askham/

Results here

http://www.fellrunner.org.uk/results/race09/09_askham.htm

I’ll utup on thurs this week.

TF

Wandering, not so lonely

Sorry to hear about the curtailed South-North Lakes run on Saturday, NLN. You were obviously unfortunate in the conditions as I managed to find good weather in the Lakes either side of Saturday.

A walk with TGL (The Good Lady) on Friday was started in very low clag and cold but no wind or rain and was perfect for an amble through the daffodils on a recce of Sunday's Spring in Lakeland LDWA event. By mid afternoon the sun was out.

This was a pattern repeated on Sunday and fortunately there was no sign of last year's icy conditions. This may have been reponsible for the improved time of 5 hrs 11 mins (6 mins better than 12 months ago). Distance was 23.14 and overall pace was 13 mins 28 secs per miles.

Cumbrian Traverse 1 – Rucksack Club 0

Or more accurately the weather was the winner on the day!  Having watched all the weather forecast sites from Monday, including the mountain weather for the Cumbrian mountains, we should have been basking in sunshine by Saturday afternoon.  Instead we battled throughout the day in strengthening winds gusting to such an extent that even the sturdiest of the four man team was struggling to maintain an upright position.  This proved treacherous on rocks slippery from a combination of light/heavy rain to horizontal hail on the Crinkles. 

Disappointing, but a good day’s walk with lots of climbing miles in the legs.  Despite the conditions, we were still 20 minutes up on the originator’s roughly 15-hour schedule, when we decided to bail out and descend to the comfort of the Chippy in Keswick.

Tops ticked were:

1. Great Stickle
2. Stickle Pike
3. Caw
4. White Maiden
5. Brown Pike
6. Dow Crag
7. Old Man of Coniston
8. Swirl How
9. Great Carrs
10. Cold Pike
11. Crinkle Crags
12. Bowfell
13. Esk Pike

At this point with all four of us suffering badly from the cold, even with every item of emergency clothing donned, it was decided that the descents ahead off Great End and Gable would be just too dangerous.  Nobody was keen to spend another five or six hours in these conditions on the high fells.  Ian remembering this bit of his ‘55’ wasn’t ready for an action replay – at least not this weekend!

From Esk Hause we made our way down the valley to Seathwaite, picking up footpaths to Keswick.  The Cumbrian Traverse is there for another day, we did succeed in our walk from Broughton Mills to Keswick, giving us  30.5 miles and  8663ft of ascent.

Tops outstanding:

1. Great End
2. Great Gable
3. Green Gable
4. Brandreth
5. Grey Knotts
6. High Spy
7. Maiden Moor
8. Cat Bells

This was intended to be a good warm up for the Fellsman in May, frustratingly the knee pain experienced on the Amble reappeared later in the day, along with a very ‘tight’ lower back – obviously connected, which doesn’t auger well.  My hope is that this was a result of the twisting/wrenching etc on the extremely rough terrain and that it will settle down fairly quickly.  Although the Fellsman is twice the distance, the terrain is much more benign even with a similar amount of climbing.  Fingers crossed!

NLN

PS – weather precluded any piccies!

Today

The team today was NicO, YJ, EtU and me. The initial route was Two Lads, Winter Hill, ramp to Belmont and then to Hordern Stoops. EtU, who was suffering a bit due to a heavy training schedule, and YJ both wanted to finish early and left NicO and me at this point. The two of us continued for a good run to Great Hill, then to White Coppice directly from Drinkwater's and via the reservoirs back to the barn.

A great morning out. 14.55 miles.

You Are What You Eat!

Dear Ed the Ultranourished

Responding to your nutritional queries the old adage above springs to mind.  The problem posed when training for your ultra-event is how to stop the growth or preferably reverse it to allow for quicker propulsion on the inclines (of which there are of course many on your Joss). 

There are, indeed many strategies to achieve the necessary reduction in weight (none of which you have chosen to pursue).  Your public revelations last Saturday morning concerning Penguin bars, were tantamount to nutritional suicide.  One can only assume a certain amount of masochistic zeal in your desire to maintain your current body mass, given the task you have set yourself.  This is only confirmed by your drift towards pie-eating – one would think you had been raised in Wigan!

My only advice is to abandon any attempt or advice on healthy eating as your current excellent form on the hill is testament to the success of your diet  - maybe there’s a reality TV show in there somewhere!

Keep putting it away lad!

With all good wishes from a Nutritionally Loaded Novice (NLN)