Amble Pictures

At White Coppice:

 

YJ arriving

 

“I hope that’s not NLN coming”

 

“Right, I’ll be off now”

 

“Hi, isn’t this good fun?”

 

All back to front.

 

“It’d be a laugh if I caught him up”

At the finish:

“I enjoyed that”

 

“ Yes, it was good”

 

Ray Miller was there. NLN knew him by sight. I met him for the first time on EtU’s Bob Graham recce of Blencathra, Skiddaw etc.

Monthly Hill Rep Session Thurs 10/02/11

3 participants - EtU, EYJ & TF, Location - Foxholes

Session consisted of 2min reps with a 30sec recovery to re-group, once at top of Foxholes jog recovery down Old Rake and Factory Hill to bottom of Foxholes

Start - Salt bin/Lamp post bottom of Foxholes

We did 2 x 2min reps and then one final rep to the top.

Times for complete 'Foxholes'
No. 1 - EYJ approx 7:25mins TF 7:39mins EtU 7:53mins
No. 2 - EYJ 7:29mins TF 7:40mins EtU 7:58mins
No. 3 - EYJ 7:28mins TF 7:38mins EtU 8:00mins

Should note that on his third 'Foxholes' EtU managed to cover more ground on the first 2min rep than EYJ and TF - he nearly managed it to the very narrow section with the terraced houses. His breathing rate at this point could have been counted by someone stood at the bottom of the hill!

Final recovery run starting on George's Lane to Jolly Crofters and then down to Chorley New Rd and back to the cars.

Total dist approx 6.5m - felt like 10m!

TF
ps next session Thurs 10th March @ 6:30pm

Tomorrow

Regrettably, I’m not up to participating in the Amble tomorrow but my intention is to be at White Coppice at about 12.00 to 12.15, complete with camera, to meet any of the gang that might turn up, and to try to accompany anyone who might be struggling a bit back to the finish. I’m finding that, although against advice, I am able to do a bit of running.

UTUP - planing on doing 3 'Foxholes' this time so need to head off from UTUP @ 6.30pm.  Prob take 40-45mins, then longish warm down (3m), starting from george's lane. 

A rainy day

My first trip north in 2011 and it rained! However, it didn't spoil a very pleasant morning out on the local moors with t'Y. Now I have to admit that the days when I could run up Two Lads and hurl insults at t'Y are gone forever; so much so that he had to keep running off and running back whilst I tried to keep going. We followed the Winter Hill route to the shooting huts (my first trip accross this particular path in the 2000s) and then up the long drag to the trig point. Down on to (an underwater) Georges Lane to the Pike (t'Y did Noon Hill as well) and then back.

So thanks to t'Y for a very enjoyable morning; it was apity that I didn't get to meet up with more of you but i will be up again the week before Easter, so maybe I will see you all then.

TLoB

Oh, and I almost forgot: Brentford FC are going to Wembley!!

This Week

Thursday 10th ~  UTUPing (if I get out of work on time), but note that we will have a smooth legged lady with us who'll want to do Foxholes reps.

Saturday 12th ~ Ambling.

Pennine Way Recce

Not much of a day for photos, but these two agreed to pose for the camera!


A notice on the gate further down the hill, suggested that some of the other residents wouldn't be so obliging.

Well done to everyone for putting up with my below par navigating yesterday. Blaming it on the good company and conversation for not keeping track of position on map!

TF

Pennine recce

Thanks to all who helped on the Pennine Way recce on Saturday, especially TF for shouldering the burden of navigation and to NLN for her racy stories of lady fell runners.

We covered 15 miles in just under 5 hours, almost 20 minutes per mile.

I will start work now on an overall schedule for the run and a schedule for all the pacers.

Weather tomorrow in Keighley

http://www.yr.no/place/United_Kingdom/England/Keighley_And_Worth_Valley_Railway_Station/hour_by_hour.html

This Week

UTUPing Thursday 3rd (is it today already?)

Saturday 5th Feb

Chris Beesley, aka The Lord of Brentford, aka The Marf from the Sarf, blogged on 29th Jan to ask if anyone is UTUPing this Saturday. Most of us seem to be doing a Pennine Way recce with YJ, but if anyone is UTUPing, could they please post, so that Chris knows what's happening. He promises not to talk too loudly.

View From Great End

With regard to JtE's commented query about the possibility of a glimpse of the Isle of Man from NLN's photo, Pillar is on a bearing of approx. 310^o from Great End, whereas the most northerly point of the Isle of Man, Point of Ayre is on a bearing of approx. 260^o, so probably not.

My money would be on somewhere in Dumfries and Galloway, or just a cloud formation.

But as Winnie the Pooh used to say, on the other hand I could be wrong, I often don't know what I'm talking about.

Keeping in touch

It's interesting to keep in touch by reading of your various exploits. Rather enviously I must admit. I'm off to Tenerife tomorrrow for a week to hopefully recharge my batteries. I've done a bit of running since my lastest injury and whilst my knee isn't 100% that isn't the problem. Whatever virus I picked up at the beginning of the year took a liking to my energy and has taken off with it and it's nowhere to be found. Consequently, a one hour lethargic plod round the park is the most I can manage. No change there, then. Anyone would think I was an old man! In fact, on reflection, everyone does think I'm an old man. It's a year since I was a Saturday morning regular. lt's time I was back.

That's Lyth

It was one of those days that gets off to a bad start. The 6 o'clock departure to Kendal for the That's Lyth LDWA event took a turn for the worse when access north to the M6 was closed and I ended up heading south. A quick turn round at Samlesbury put me on the right course and I ended up in Kendal to find all the public toilets closed (don't ask!).

But fortunately from there the day got steadily better. You know immediately you set off what sort of a run its going to be and so it was as I set off through the freezing streets for the first climb and I found myself in company with a lot of fit younger lads and lasses.

The route takes us over the limestone escarpments to the west and south west of Kendal and incorporates 3,300 feet of climbing over a mixture of roads, tracks and fields and a few scrambles down some almost sheer limestone faces off Whitbarrow Scar.

From there we headed for Witherslack and then back into the Lyth Valley which we crossed to Cotes Corner where NLN was dispensing tea and biscuits with her usual charm. The run in headed us back onto the limestone, this time Scout Scar and then back across the old racecourse where I managed to slip on the very last bit of exposed limestone taking a heavy fall and picking up a few bruises in the process - but no injuries of a lasting nature.

As I said the day had gradually got better and as the miles ticked by the watch showed progress that had not revealed itself in training. By the finish I had managed to beat last year's run by 32 minutes in a time that was the fastest for 9 years. Total time for the 23.57 miles was 4hrs 22mins 57secs at an average of 11.09mins per mile. The fastest mile time was 8mins 56secs (twice) and the slowest (descending from Whitbarrow Scar) was 16mins 35secs.

Lakes Weekend

Fantastic weekend filled with sun, summits and socialising it doesn’t get much better than this!  Arriving early in Great Langdale the conditions were perfect cold, frosty and firm under foot but without a cloud in the sky, the sunshine looked every bit as good as the forecast predicted. 

A frosty Great Langdale with clear blue skies above

Not long after setting off from the Old Dungeon Ghyll we were forced to de-layer on the climb up Rosset Gyll to Esk Hause, meeting Kev Davison (the Navigator FRA) en route.  

Rosset Ghyll with Rosset Pike on the right

A frozen Angle Tarn with Great End peaking over Esk Hause

Bowfell with Angle Tarn below

Sunshine on Angle Tarn

We parted company on the summit of Great End, with Kev going on to Scafell Pike and us returning to Esk Hause before going on to Esk Pike and Bowfell. 

Kev and FSS with Scafell Pike between them

Highest summit in England!

Wisps of cloud gathering in Mickledore

Great Gable from Great End

             Gable, again

Pillar (centre) then Black Crags, Scoat Fell with Steeple behind – from GE

Just below Bowfell summit we met up with Dave Makin and the other Achille Ratti lads who had started at Dunmail to run back to the ODG as a recce for Dave’s impending Joss this year.  We then clambered over the Crinkles.  I made a bit of a show of meself going down the Bad Step, which I’ve done many times before with no problem but perhaps the degree of caution required in running over the hard packed snow and ice in some parts resulted in a bit of shilly shallying on the down-climb.   Lucky FSS was there to look after me! 

The last climb of the day over Harrison Stickle before the descent to the car at the ODG, where we decided to take light refreshments from the bar.   Of course, the AR lads were already in residence and we joined them in a glass or two before returning to the hut along the valley.   The day gave us 12.7m with 5,148ft climbed.

Pike O’Stickle

Interesting ice formations on the grass

At bishops Scale, after a hot shower, Dave’s wife Jan and co. laid on a splendid repast of pie and peas for about 30 or so runners/walkers.   After supper, some hardy folk returned to the ODG, however, we were content to sit by the log burner with a glass of wine before retiring.

Sunday morning and a leisurely start to the day with me dropping FSS in Ambleside at about 9.00am to run over Wansfell, Garburn Rd etc (you can read about it on his blog) to me at George’s Garage, on the outskirts of Levens, which is the final checkpoint on That’s Lyth, (LDWA event) where I was marshalling for the day.  A cold day in the garage, but great conditions for the runners/walkers – of which there were 299 starters, all of whom passed by or through the garage.  Great to pass the time of day with so many familiar faces, one of which was our own YJ, who just ran in to say hello as he was having a great run and didn’t want to lose the momentum for the last five miles – look forward to reading about it YJ  :)  The first man through was at 10.13am for interest.

Quality weekend had by all!  Hope the piccies capture a bit of it!

NLN

Yesterday

Started at UTUP yesterday and went by Ammunition Corner and Hordern Stoops to Great Hill. Then by the Brinscall triangle to White Coppice and via the reservoirs back to the barn. The old leg performed without the slightest problem and there are no after effects today. Disappointingly however my lower back problem re-emerged and I struggled over the last half mile. It felt good to be back on one of our familiar routes again after so long. I was interested to see the new fencing and gating system now installed on the latter part of the triangle, presumably as part of the development of the bridle path.

The purpose of this outing was to test my capability of doing the 16 mile Amble in two weeks time. It seems that I am still unfit at this stage and that participation might be unwise.

12.2 miles. 3 hours 57mins!

 

I will be in Bolton next weekend so hope to meet up with you then. Please let me know if it is any different from UTUP.
TLoB

Just a trio this morning

It was good to join Ed & EYJ this morning for a few hours on Winter Hill.
I decided to take my camera but checked it to find battery just about flat so these were taken with my mobile phone camara. The one with all three of us was a pot luck, point it back towards us and hope. At 0°C you can't hang around!

This Week

UTUPing today 27th

and Saturday 29th.

More From Chernobyl...

...well not from your actual Chernobyl, if you see what I mean.

Now that Jon Schofield has posted results on his website, it's easier to see that SN was placed 5th out of 14 in her category, whilst I just managed to sneak into the top half of mine, placing 8th out of 16.

Chernobyl 10K

Good stuff :- a fast, flattish course on mostly tarmac surfaced, traffic free tracks, lots of space on the park and ride only 5 minutes walk from the start (just as well as no ride available).

Bad stuff :- from a malodorous pub with unsavoury locals, downing pints of lager at about 10:45 a.m, instant coffee in plastic cups for £1.25 (£0.50 at Garstang), faulty lock on the only cubicle in the men's toilet that resulted in two ladies (I knew you always went in pairs) bursting in on me, when they thought the coast was clear!

Just SN and me from the wfdbwgua squad with Big Little Brother Swift putting in a guest appearance. BLB well inside the hour, which had been a target only a few months ago, in 58:01 (352nd), but slightly miffed because he hadn't seen the finish in time to muster the sprint that would have seen off the two ladies with whom he had been to-ing and fro-ing for most of the race. SN 291st in 53:33, having thoroughly enjoyed the race, but slightly disappointed not to have crept nearer the 50 minute mark that seems to have emerged recently as a target for several of us. I was pleased with my 232nd place in 51:19, just 13 seconds a mile outside the elusive 50.

Race won by Jon Fletcher of Border Harriers in 33:24, first lady (19th overall) was Philippa Maddams of Keswick AC in 38:30. Phillipa is presumably the wife of Russell Maddams, also Keswick AC  (formerly of Horwich RMI) who placed second in 33:41.

422 finished.

And yes, YJ we know you want to know, first MV70 was Mr (!) Robson of Manchester Tri in 53:29, but John, you've got to be in it to win it!

Note to SN :- the red vest and the purple T shirt clashed somewhat, perhaps a white T shirt next time.

EYJ Rides Again!

Good to see EYJ on top of Two Lads on Saturday morning, after he had been missing for several weeks, following his fall on the ramp towards the end of 2010, as previously reported by NLN.

NLN, YJ and I had rendezvoused at the UTUP, before heading for the meet, where EYJ told us of his injured ribs and head wound ~ he's now a fully accredited member of the wfdbwgua group.

On our way to the Trespass Stone (well we did have NLN with us) we played the usual Saturday morning game with a herd of cows (of both sexes) and taking advice from our on-board bovine expert, we made a wide detour to avoid the bull with all his bits intact.

Back at the Bottom Barn I peeped in to see if Nic'O and JtE had arrived but no sign of them at 12:15.

I'll leave YJ to complete the details of the outing, as I baled out on Spitlers, after EYJ had turned for home at Hordern Stoops, leaving NLN and YJ to head off for Round Loaf.

'The Hebden' Sat 22nd Jan

Might eventually turn up on time for this one day! Was just about to leave home when I realised I hadn't sent the oldest nephew his birthday present (via amazon). I make it to junction 19 on the M60 only to join the back of a queue, 7:20am on a Saturday morning!! Some degree of luck made it a short wait, but opting to take the safer (but longer) driving route via Todmorden to Mytholmroyd I arrived at the registration just in time to see everyone depart.

Lots of excuse me's and thank you's later, I got past the walkers to join the back of the runners. Wouldn't want to miss this one, a cracking route and fantastic food on route and at the finish. A nice steady pace saw me round in 5hr02mins, over 30mins improvement on the last time. Didn't suffer with the dreaded cramp this time. I have since learnt that one person walking the route sadly died during the event. Condolences must be extended to their family and hopefully they'll be comforted by the fact that their relative was enjoying life to the end. You couldn't not do on this route.

Having somehow managed to get my name on the start list for 3 Peaks, Sundays leg stretcher was a gentle trundle up and down Pen-y-Ghent.

Next out on the 5th feb for NUTNUP!

TF

Saturday 22nd - Post-run Plan

Looking forward to UTUP-ing tomorrow.   There is a plan that JtE and Nic'O will be around for a coffee and catch up at the LB cafe at about 12.15pm if anyone would like to join us.

NLN

Pennine Way reece

On 5th Feb TF, NLN, EtU and myself will be doing a Pennine Way recce in preparation for my 70 at 70ish attempt on May 28th. If anyone else is interested we can perhaps organise enough to justify another car. An earlyish start is contemplated (exact time to be decided by democratic means) and an out and back route is planned totalling 20 miles from Cowling (MR965427) to MR947324 between Widdop Res and Walshaw Dean Res.

The next possible date for a recce is March 5th.

All offers of help for all or part of the 70 mile run on May 28th will be most welcome. I will be shortly launching a sponsorship appeal for Help the Heroes, though any costs incurred by helpers will be deemed to be sufficient contribution.

I shall be UTUPing on Saturday 22nd planning a warm-up run through Lever Park starting about 08 00 and returning by 08 25. Are there any other insomniacs?

This week

Thursday 20th UTUP

Saturday 22nd UTUP

Sunday 23rd Chernobyl 10k

Rain and Mud

Last Saturday I decided to make the effort and UTUP. It was good to see EtU, YJ and TA at the start and as they ran off towards the Top Barn I started on my own walk. I basically took the “standard route” to Healey Nab but kept to the bridle route passing beneath the Nab instead of forking left at the appropriate point to gain the summit. This brought me out onto the tarmac road leading to Heapey which I took until right turning to White Coppice. From there I took the bridle path towards Brinscall for a short distance before turning back and taking the direct route to Waterman’s Cottage, then skirting Anglezarke, High Bullough and Yarrow reservoirs back to the barn.

Not having turned out since the 17th. July last year I had forgotten the pleasure there is in starting early to spend the morning in the rain and wading through mud. I must do it more often.

9.25 miles. 2 hours 55 mins!

White Holme Circular (12m/1200ft) Sun 16th Jan 2011

Thought it'd be straight forward this one, gentle ease into racing at the start of the new year. But it was a battle of all the 'elements' involved in fell running from the off.

First element, Mandy and Wayne. Who caught up with me at the queue for the first style. So much for the racing start.

Second element, the wind and rain. Had to be careful not to run to close to the drainage ditch that circles the Turley Holes plateau, just in case you got blown in and had to swim round.

Finally the third and surprise element (at least for me). Agility test. At about the halfway point the open drainage ditch became a smaller closed one. Route choice was deep, peaty mud or running along the top of a 2ft wide cylindrical concrete tube. I managed to find a picture of part of it here, it's the bigger one on the left in the centre of the picture.

http://picasaweb.google.com/Walkingmum/0903BlackstoneEdgeWarland#5308285683822199474

If it'd been smooth all along it's length it wouldn't have been too bad, but it was obviously made in sections joined together, as about every three foot there was a wider bit sticking out from the tube (the joint, I presume). So trying to stay on the top, and also not trip yourself up was extremely testing.

Came back in about 2hrs 10mins, a minute or so ahead of Wayne and a couple ahead of Mandy. Apparently according to the organizer it was the best turn out they'd had on the most miserable day for running the race.

I'm off to do the 'Hebden' next Saturday and away the following week so won't be out for a utup for the next two Saturdays.

TF

When miles matter

Saturday's outing was again limited to a small, but enthusiastic, group of EtU, TA and myself, having had a short warm up through Lever Park before the others turned up.

Already on the car park as I returned was JtE who was out for a walk training session with the Amble in mind. We parted in opposite directions.

Our route, intended to extend our usual mileage, was via the Top Barn, Ammunition Corner, Horden Stoops, Belmont and then through the dye works to eventually pick up the track via Dog Bucket Farm to the track below Catherine's Edge. By the time we reached the car park on the Tockholes road in high wind and driving rain EtU was feeling the strain of a strenuous week and some back pain and decided on a return to the Lower Barn by way of Spittlers Edge. TA and I accompanied with him till we had to turn off for Great Hill where the wind strength had further increased. From there we did the Brinscal triangle, White Coppice and back to Rivington Green in calmer weather.

We had already decided that we would again take on the bovine hordes in the field by the green but they had obviously had wind of our agressive intentions and the field was empty, except for the tell-tale cow pats that marked their dojo.

So we escaped to live another day, myself having covered 19.92 miles in 4hrs 23mins 2secs - an average of 13mins 54 secs per mile - with a total ascent of 2821 ft.

Saturday 15th Jan

I shall be UTUPing tomorrow, hoping for a longish run.

Ribble Valley 10k

Information is now showing that the 2010 event is not being rescheduled and the sub-group of wfdbwgua road runners will be getting their money back. Ah well, £12 towards a more worthy cause. I'm sure I'll find one!

TF

Marsden-Edale Rucksack Club Outing

Last Friday evening saw FSS and I making our way to Hayfield to friends who live just above the village.  I spent a lovely comfortable night on the sofa bed whilst Ian and Helen formed part of the contingent completing the night section of this historical RC event.  The contenders battled their way through atrocious conditions from Edale to Marsden in the black of night, with rivers almost impassable due to the heavy rain.  The tops of Black Hill (in particular) Bleaklow and Kinder were treacherous with hard packed snow and ice covered with running water.  Despite this16 hardy beasts, set off to complete the 'Double'.  It was never Helen's intention to do the Double, but she was joined by several others at Marsden, who took the decision that the return journey was not for them in these conditions. 

An early start saw Rae, I and Katie driving to Marsden to traverse back to Edale whilst Helen (happily) picked up the childcare duties taking Katie, home.  By this time the rain had stopped thankfully, but conditions were still difficult with the rivers in speight being the main problem, but the return journey was made.  The five of us meeting in the pub at the end.  Sadly the Old Nag's Head was closed for some reason but fortunately there is a back up in the village. 

You can get some idea of the conditions and the amount of water on FSS's Blog

http://www.justusuk.com

Next out on Sat 22nd UTUP.

Going Soft

I'm allowed a little treat occasionally. All the weekends under canvas or in my case Kerlon 1200 (having now invested in a Hilleberg Akto Tent) allow me to sample some of life's luxuries. Can't beat relaxing in the hot tub looking across to the hill you've just done a few reps round. Bit chilly getting in and out mind, as it was an outdoor one.

The Losehill House Hotel (www.losehillhouse.co.uk) was ideally situated for last weekend's little excursion. A 3 night break with Dinner, Bed and Breakfast and 2 spa treatments. A full body massage after the 16m on Saturday and Facial after Sunday's time trial. My room had commanding views over to Win Hill. Food was delicious, Masterchef style and spoilt for choice. Would highly recommend it.

TF

This Week

UTUP Thursday 13th

UTUP Saturday 15th

Got my fell calender early in the new year, but then, I pay by standing order.

What's this mention of an hotel, TF, getting soft in your old age?

Interesting that despite my age, lack of form, weight and general disability, I was fifth in the 2010 Horwich RMI fell championship.

But that pales into insignificance behind Nic'O's third place in the ladies' championship. Well done that lass!

Well I've done it....

Entry now in for for the 3 Peaks. 15 weeks to go to get myself race fit, with a small matter of Edale Skyline at week 11.

Training started in earnest this weekend with a recce of the Edale Skyline route. Starting at Losehill (Hotel was on side of Losehill) and round to Jaggers Clough on Saturday and the remainder (Win Hill) on Sunday. Sunday's shorter route allowed a bit of testing of timings for 'racing line' vs 'main path' route up to the summit of Win Hill . Didn't quite pan out as I expected. I was 15 secs quicker on 'main path' and ran this route after I'd run the 'racing line'.

Could be a tough call on race day. 'Racing line' is more sheltered from prevailing winds, but a narrower path/trod which could make passing runners awkward, always assuming I'm close enough to get past anyone. 'Main path' is more exposed, but could be better running especially if it's been really wet the week before race and makes passing other runners easier. The other 'racing lines' offered on the race map were obvious quicker routes, especially given the underfoot conditions on Saturday on some sections.

Will be out hopefully on thurs for a utup and some hill reps. Saturday I'm at the hairdressing utup so have looked up the race diary and found myself a nice 'little' 12 miler to do from Littleborough on the Sunday instead. Anyone received their paper copy of the Fell Calendar yet? Still not got mine and it was posted out on the 14th Dec. Mind you I'm still receiving xmas cards at the moment, one arrived from Knutsford today!

Saturday

Interesting to read of EtU’s encounter with the Rivington beasts. It sounds just like my experience. I have it on good authority that, because a cow doesn’t like to be hit on the nose, the best thing to do is to give it a good slap using your bum bag. I think to do that would take some courage. The beast might think “OK pal, if that’s the way you want to play it……………”

Coincidentally on Saturday morning I walked from the Lower Barn to White Coppice and back (parking at the side of EtU at about 9.00am). I whimpishly decided that in order to keep my feet dry I would avoid the mess at the bottom of the steps near Rivington Green. I went via the Bowling Club instead and I’m glad that I did!

Old Man, Same Old Story

Saturday saw the Swift bros repeating, in reverse, last week's tour of Healey Nab, the Brinscall Triangle, Great Hill and Spitlers Edge (this week's order) in the slightly faster time of 3:11 ~ 13.09 miles.

Slight drama approaching Rivington Green as we mixed it with the cows that had harassed JtE some months earlier. YJ had skipped past the bovine blockade, but I became engaged in a sort of Mexican stand-off with fairly determined beast that instead of backing off, moved menacingly forward. Whilst not wanting to show fear, I noted that the fence behind me had an uncomfortable looking topping of barbed wire. However, loud shouting and a threatening posture (not usually my style) seemed to persuade the beast that it shouldn't bother and I was able to reach the gate with my body and most of my dignity intact.

Sunday saw us both (that's me and YJ rather than me and the cow) toe the line for the Garstang 10k. Suffice to say that YJ took the MV70 prize in 48:21, almost 9 minutes ahead of the second placed man in his age group, and 160th overall in a field of 350 finishers. The race was won by David Rigby of Preston Harriers in 32:45, whilst I finished 248th in 53:25. Not a good time, but not too disappointing after the flu and the resultant bad chest.

Lets see what the Chernobyl 10k brings on the 23rd.

Random Christmas New Year Outings

Christmas was a time of full on flu for FSS and with me just recovering from the same, our walking boots have not seen as much action for a long time, as running was out of the question.  Very enjoyable it was ‘though and gave us the time to stop and stare and put the world to rights on our outings on the paths and tracks from our front door.

 

This rather handsome beast was so disappointed when we left him that he took to head butting the fence post…  extraordinary behaviour

A couple of fields later another bunch of curious critters appeared, perhaps thinking we had some tasty treats for them.   Below some random snow scenes over the Christmas hols.

Family Christmas, complete with snow scenes… lovely.  Well at least one of my boys knows when to strike a pose :)

This little church is older than me, quite a vintage then, my Dad bought it the Christmas before I arrived in January and it ‘s been on show every Christmas since.  Don’t know what I’ll do when the bulb needs changing!  Don’t think you can buy this kind any more.

Sunday 2nd Jan and we were both well enough to join Lostock for their New Year’s run, where Haggis was served at the Two Lads.  Above setting off from Top Barn, and below at the Pike.

 

 

Snow gone now from Borsdane Wood revealing a small clutch of copper beech amongst the fallen leaves.

Finally, on Monday a short outing saw us out and about over Winter Hill.  Making our way up to Two Lads a runner with a familiar gait was on his way down, we were delighted to see EYJ, who was out on a recovery run of his own having taken a very nasty fall on the ramp the previous week.   Speedy recovery EYJ and let’s hope you’re fully recovered for Winter Hill FR.

Sending out Happy Birthday Wishes to Nic’O and hoping the foot recovers well enough to re-join the Saturday boys and girls

Out with Rucksack Club this Saturday.  Annual Marsden to Edale outing over Kinder, Bleaklow, Black Hill etc about 25 miles for me.  However there is a strong tradition of doubling and this is what FSS will be doing, setting off at 10.00pm Friday night from Marsden to Edale and then back again with those of us just making the one crossing – great fun.

NLN

This Week

Thursday 6th UTUP

Saturday 8th UTUP

Sunday Garstang 10k

Sorry to hear of your troubles Matt, I'll be thinking of you on Sunday.

Did (Does?) Vince Lombardi Run the Fells?

Apparently Vince Lombardi said that "The greatest accomplishment is not in never falling, but in rising again after you fall."

We must find out more about this man.

New Year - Old problems

What enthusiasm! Meeting at 8.30 on New Years morning to go running. Wasn't that about the time we used to get home at New Year?

A couple of months ago I wrote on the blog(slightly tongue in cheek) that my running objectives were no longer to increase the speed and length of my runs but to increase the duration between injuries, and my target was to get to the end of the year without any further mishap. On New Years Eve morn I woke up with a cold and went for a run in the late afternoon to try to sweat it out. About 20 minutes into the run my knee gave way and trying to run it off just spread the problem through the thigh to the hip. So I finished up hobbling home. I missed my target by about 7 hours. It reminds me of the London Marathon when my time was 1min 38 secs outside that required to give me automatic entry for life. The Nearly Man.

The run was a double whammy because far from sweating the cold out, it seems to have sweated it in. My body's night-time default setting of; Sleep with minor interruptions, has changed to; Cough with minor interruptions. I've barked so much that people have been asking if we've got a new dog. "No", replies Christina, "Just an old one". I don't wish to over-exaggerate but I now drink my water from a bowl, have a staple diet of Pedigree Chum, and have been entered for Crufts. In an attempt to find a cure I've bought a book called "A Permanent Solution to Throat Problems" by Ivor Sharpacks. Apparently his methods are extreme but he guarantees success. Now that's what I call, "Putting your head on the block". Speaking of dogs there used to be a guy at work called Fido. Don. You couldn't get much closer to Dog Fido could you? Fido drove a Rover. We had site at Barking and thought he should apply to become a supervisor there. On his internal and inter-company correspondence he could then have signed himself; D. Fido, Barking Supervisor.

Seriously, I was intending to do the Garstang 10k, knowing that EtU and YJ would probably be taking part. It would have been an opportunity to see how close I was to Saturday morning standards. However whilst my canine impersonations are declining the knee is still swollen and quite tender. It seems a wimpish word, tender, used in the context of running. A pink-coloured word. Blancmangy in substance.

Good luck to those who are racing this weekend . Is TF trying to establish a reputation for racing or for being racy?

You all keep on running and I'll keep on getting injured.

This tickled me, whilst reading the instructions on how to get to one event

Sign-Posting: There won't be any signs. If you are on A640 and going in the right direction, you can't miss the assembly area. If you can't find it, orienteering isn't the sport for you.

Especially as I missed my turning to get to my orienteering event at Arnside Knotts on Saturday morning. I paid better attention to my map later on, so much so that I'm now sporting a lovely set of scratches across my face and upper lip where a tree failed to move out of my way.

Not good, when you're 'front of house' on the registration desk at the Cross Country race the following morning. The polite ones didn't ask if it was drink-related!

TF

Go Outdoors ~ Sale

Received the following from Mark Sammon:-

Just wanted to let you know that Go Outdoors have a sale on for today (3rd Jan) only. Some running gear is now 50% off.

I have just bought a pair of new Inov-8 Mudclaw 333s (RRP £75) for £37.50 from my local store but offers are available online too.

Regards,

Mark

And then there were two....

Saturday's outing was a quiet start to the New Year with just EtU, SN and myself toeing the line. EtU was obviously improving from his attack of lurgy and lasted a little further than the previous Thursday, staying with us as far as Healey Nab.

With the team reduced to two we headed for White Coppice, the Brinscal triangle and thence to Great Hill, Spittler's Edge, Hordern Stoops, Amunition Corner and back to the lower barn in a time of 3 hrs 13 mins 27 secs, an average of 14 mins 42 secs for each of the 13.16 miles we covered. Total climbing was 1720 ft.

It is interesting that we had done a slightly shorter (12 miles) but otherwise similar route in reverse the equivalent day 12 months earlier in 3 hrs 6 mins which should be encouraging for both of us as we found the tussocky run from Great Hill exhausting.

I plan to be at the UTUP next Saturday though my distance will probably be influenced by the Garstang 10K race the following day.

Auld Lang Syne

Well done TF – looked a bit chilly out there!  Another Horwich runner Mark Birbeck won a prize for his interpretation of Fellvis LMAO when I saw this one!

Photo courtesy of bob Wightman http://picasaweb.google.com/BobEWightman/AuldLangSyne31122010#

Where I think you might view the other image referred to – excellent sport TF :)

'Trinny & Suzannah Lost Cause'.

Their 'magic' knickers don't work on everyone. If ever there was an extra incentive needed to start the new year on a diet, this is it. If anyone is offended by having the photo on the blog then please say so and EtU will remove it.

TF

Today and Tomorrow

All very daring TF, but who/what were you meant to be?

Hoping to UTUP tomorrow, and to be out a bit longer than yesterday.

Auld Lang Syne 31st Dec 2010

Well I braved the elements in my fancy dress 'costume' - here I am

http://www.photos-dsb.co.uk/ALS%202010/content/ALS_2010_391_large.html


Didn't manage to break 70 mins (which I'd hoped for) but I had to take it gently to prevent any 'wardrobe' malfunctions. There is a fairly indecent shot of me taken near the trig point (turning back point) which I'm not providing a link for, should have remembered it's windy near the top. If you want to see it, I'm sure the resourceful among you will be able to seek it out (not for those of a sensitive nature). Most photographers advertize their wares via the fellrunner forum, I unfortunately have appreared to do the same!!


TF

More of the same...

I shall be UTUPing tomorrow (Saturday) hoping for a bit further than the 8 miles we did yesterday. While I think we were all a bit short of energy for one reason or another it was a bonus day on the fells at this time of the year and the good company made up for the lack of distance.

EtU and TF made it as far as the Pike, for different reasons, and the rest carried on via Two Lads, the Quarries where we had to brave a herd of cattle grazing on and around the path and then, the route to the RoW stone being deemed too icy, we shortcutted to the trig point, down the diagonal and the Sheep's Back to the Lower barn in a time of 2 hrs 16 mins.

A happy New Year to all who don't turn out tomorrow - and good running to those who do.

Peak 'O' Trial, Tues 28th Dec

Always prepared for a bit of an adventure at one of Des's races, I turned up thinking I'd get away with the short 4m (as advertised) option. It was first day out in the car for 11 days and I needed to get to the shops before I missed out on all the bargains.

Des had other ideas. It's hour and a half course he says, I've not planned a short one, you can always miss a couple out. He waved the map briefly in front of me just so I had a general idea of distance involved. Miss a couple out, that was like a 'red rag to a bull', no never!

Well after an hour and a half had elapsed I'd got to the point of 'where there's no sense, there's no feeling' or in my case no feeling, no sense. How numb can your feet get? Very, if you tramp around the Peak District looking for little orange and white flags while there's snow on the ground. Should have called it quits, but soldiered on and was back at the pub in 3hrs17. Even Des's 'an hour and a half' was a bit optimistic, winner (Julien Minshull, local runner) managed 1hr:47 I believe, and he knows the area as well as Des. Not sure if I was the slowest, but at least I was back in less than 2x winner's time.

I'll be out for a brief run tomorrow, so will see a few of you at 8.30am

TF

Thursday 30th Dec

I plan to be at the Lower Barn at the usual time tomorrow.

Thursday 30th Dec

There is some interest in a run over Winter Hill on Thursday. Start at 8:30 a.m at the Bottom Barn.

Be good to have a substantial turn-out.

Clitheroe 10K

SN has just alerted me to the fact that it's CANCELLED!

Must have heard that their star athlete was laid up with man flu. Although I do think organizing (from his sick bed) for a Milk Lorry to get stuck on the route was a deliberate attempt to slow everyone up! All entries valid for a new date (TBC), Fellrunner forum is suggesting sometime in March for a re-staging, so hoping it's not the 27th as that clashes with Edale. Mindful of any other delaying tactics that EtU might have in mind!!

I'd looked at the possibility of doing Trafford 10k on the 13th, so I don't think the organizers will go for that date due to the elite wanting to be at both.

Anyway that's enough talk of road running. Hoping to get out to the Peak District tomorrow to do a bit of navigating. Three days stuck inside with a paintbrush and a roller is enough for anyone to take to the hills. 4 rooms done, 1 to go.

TF

Ribble Valley 10k

A full week of flu (man/lady/swine?) has left me feeling a bit grim, and even now it's on the wane, it's left me with debilitating cough, that means I'm having to give tomorrow's race a miss.

Hope anyone that does toe the line has a good run, possible with two under the 50 minutes?

Merry Christmas

Have a great time whatever you're up to.  Be careful, it's slippy.....


NLN

Southern Section

Seasons greetings to you all in the frozen North. Its not that warm down here come to that but we haven't had much snow since the weekend. Sadly my running has had another setback with firstly a recurrence of my back trouble followed by a bad cold so I haven't been out since October. But never mind, I am used to it by now so a new start will be made in the new year. Keep up the great posts as it is well interesting to read and the photos are especially welcome as there are no hills round here.

See you in 2011

TLoB

Hospital Run Postponed

For anyone thinking of doing the Harriers' annual pre-Christmas "Hospital Run" (tonight), it has been postponed on safety grounds due to the weather.

Only a short run - the start of a wonderful day

I couldn't be with you on Saturday, even if plan A or plan B had come to fruition (see YJ post). I did however manage to achieve a short run on the fells. After breakfast I escaped from the Devonshire Fell hotel in Burnsall, clod in yaktrax, ran up the road a bit before turning off into Harden Woods with a demanding little climb up through the virgin snow before carefully making my way back down. I was only allowed 20 minutes or so, as I was required to greet guests from about 11.30 a.m. who would be turning up for my daughter's wedding.
All apart from four made it - they gave up trying to get out of Horwich after 90 minutes on Saturday morning. We even managed to persuade everyone to leave the confines of the hotel for a few outside photographs.
There's a small collage of photographs on the photographer's blog for those who would like to see what Diane and Neal got up to on their only rest weekend in their Ironman training schedule.

Not Quite So Young EYJ

Not just sure of the exact date, but I think that EYJ has just turned 70, it might have been 17th Dec.

So, sorry, John for missing this landmark birthday. Hope the day went well (if it has already went), and here's to the next decade.

We now boast four septuagenarians; good grief, there's more of them than there is of us!

Who's next? Could it be me?

It's no joke

"It never snows in Longton" is a phrase I often trot out when surrounding areas are being blizzard swept. This smug attitude came home to roost with a vengeance on Friday night when an eight-hour snowfall started as I finished my second run of the day.

A couple of hours later it was deep enough to warrant a call to EtU to formulate plan B if conditions worsened further overnight. And worsen they did. Plan B involved a check with EtU just after 6 30 and the word was that the Grimeford area was nearly as bad as Longton and a decision was taken that to travel would be foolhardy.

That was where Plan C came in which involved setting off for a run from home and soon, when running in the virgin snow was impossible (the depth was eight to nine inches with some even deeper patches) .Plan D took me home to an early breakfast.

Since then conditions have not improved much, restricting this morning's run to an energy sapping four miles in a time which being kept a closely guarded secret.

Apologies..

...to anyone who managed the UTUP this morning. Due to the snow I managed the UP, but significantly later than even my tardy UT.

Running from home, I found that studs gave good grip on compacted snow, and decided that progress was good enough to make the trig point an appropriate target. But it was not to be. Having passed through the UP, (no cars at all) I passed the Top Barn, found myself on virgin snow, vergin' (ow!) on a foot deep, and progress was reduced to a slow walk. Change of plan; the absence of footprints indicated that I could be the first up the Pike, something I'd never achieved before (racing or training), so that would be my notable achievement for the day.

But that was also not to be. Coming in from the right, part way through the gardens was a set of footprints, which I followed to the top of the Pike, although at times they were obliterated by the blown snow (spindrift seemed a suitable word for this, but my dictionary only relates it to blown sea spray).

On top, conditions were quite horrid, and taking off my gloves for a brief photographic break left my hands painfully cold.

You can just see the Pigeon Tower, slightly left of centre, near the top.

You can also see how strong the wind was, I thought I was standing upright!



My return route was virtually the same as my outgoing, except for a detour over Anderton footbridge (GR 614 135) where I took this, looking northwards up the M61.



As you can see, two and a bit northbound lanes clear, nearly two southbound.

Pb for this run 1:11, par 1:20, previous PW 1:40, this morning 2:40, oh well.

Ribble Valley 10k

After initially baulking at the £12 entry fee, I grasped both the nettle and my credit card and entered this race, which is run on Monday 27th Dec, not far from last Sunday's 7.

Saturday 18th Dec

I Shall be UTUPing on Saturday 18th Dec.

Do squirrels hibernate?

At the first sign of ice my feet refused to leave the comfort of my slippers and I've been in hibernation ever since!
Need to make an effort soon as I signed up for the Clitheroe 10k in a moment of madness.
Sorry to miss everyone last Saturday night, we were at a wedding in Nottingham. Unfortunately in another moment of madness I decided to walk the 2 miles between venues in high heels and now have several large blisters. Still it gives me another reason to stay in hibernation.
SN

Saturday Night, Sunday Morning

Whilst we were enjoying the festive fayre at the Cherry Tree FSS was up in the Lakes to help Mark Smith on his Winter BG attempt.  Mark has done a regular round and last year completed a Winter Round albeit in 24hrs and 20 minutes.   This was his final attempt to get round in a sub 24 hour time before life changes forever on the arrival of his first child.   You can read FSS's account and Mark's write up respectively.  EtU asked what constitutes a winter round and apparently it is 14 days either side of the shortest day of the year.

Having been up most of the night FSS was still keen to accompany me on the South Lancs Christmas event, which he did.  Mark Sammon also had a run round having been orienteering the day before.  A great route from Wigan amateur rugby union club, along the canal to Arley Golf Club.  From there a good route crossing the river Douglas and around Worthington Lakes before heading across the fields to Blackrod.  Footpaths eventually lead back to Haigh Hall and back to the rugby club.  All the better for the semi-frozen conditions underfoot.  Total miles 12.05 with 1275ft climbed in 2hrs 11mins.

Hoping to do the Fairfield Horseshoe Saturday, provided roads clear enough to get to Ambleside.

NLN

3 brothers swift and a tooth fairy


http://www.runningpix.co.uk/Roadpics/Longridge7-1059D/pages/Longridge7-1059D305_jpg.htm


http://www.runningpix.co.uk/Roadpics/Longridge7-1059D/pages/Longridge7-1059D280_jpg.htm


http://www.runningpix.co.uk/Roadpics/Longridge7-1059D/pages/Longridge7-1059D248_jpg.htm


http://www.runningpix.co.uk/Roadpics/Longridge7-1059D/pages/Longridge7-1059D241_jpg.htm

TF
ps my thurs utup could be very brief depending on when we get the snow

This Week

Thursday 16th ~ UTUP
Saturday 18th ~ UTUP

The squad run

Saturday's outing was a great contrast to the previous week, all but traces of the thick snow blanket having gone to leave a few treacherous patches of ice which on at least one occasion had the Tooth Fairy dancing more like the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The squad of TF, NLN, T'Y, EtU, and myself followed much the same course out as last week, up through the Chinese Garden, Two Lads, Quarries, Right of Way Stone, all reached appreciably faster than last week, and on the way we met EYJ by prior arrangement. Coal Pit Lane took us up to the Mast and then down the diagonal to Georges Lane.

By this time T'Y had left us to return to the Lower Barn and EYJ had turned for home. From Georges Lane EtU and TF followed the Winter Hill route to Ammunition Corner while NLN and I took the easier, if slower, route down the Sheep's Back. From there we cut across to Lead Mine Valley with NLN and EtU opting to cross the fields while once again I took the easier track with TF who left at the bridge to return solo to the Lower Barn.

Minutes later NLN and EtU arrived and we all agreed that time was running out and followed TF back to the cars.

With the second detour NLN clocked 12.5 miles compared to 12.11 on my Garmin which recorded a total time of 2hrs 51mins 51secs at 14mins 12secs per mile with a total climb of 2146ft.

All this was a good prelude to the Longridge Christmas pudding race where TF gave me a much harder race than I had wanted. Our exploits are well chronicled elsewhere, suffice to say that in order to catch TF (who had pulled well away from me on the earlier slippery ascent) I had to complete the sixth mile in 6mins 54secs with seventh in 7mins 1 sec to lead by a very narrow margin. It can only be a matter of time before she show us all the way home on the roads.

Longridge Seven

The day was fine and bright, but the early morning frost meant that the organisers found it necessary to delay the start until the sun and additional gritting made the course safer. Initially announced as 30 minutes, the delay was subsequently reduced to just 15 minutes.

Despite these measures, the first half of this seven mile road race sported many icy patches, such that in places runners resorted to using the rough grass verges, rather than the tarmac.

TF had placed herself further forward at the start than the three Swift brothers, setting herself up as both a target and a pacemaker for the rest of us. YJ passed me early on in determined pursuit, but I soon realised that the gap between me and the lady in red was not going to reduce, and I saw it (not too) gradually extend until she was lost to view. Jan Atkins also passed me, and she too opened a significant gap.

The course undulates for the first three miles, but a significant amount of net height is gained. The fourth mile includes a fairly stiff climb, with the highest point reached a little way into the fifth mile. Thereafter, the course is predominantly downhill, giving runners the chance to improve their overall average pace.

At the finish I was met by YJ and TF, both clutching their Christmas puddings, having finished in that order, YJ having finally caught the lady at about the six mile mark, managing to open a gap of only 8 seconds before the finish.

The race was won by Alasdair Russell of Kendal in 38:37, Lucie Custance of Clapham Chasers was first lady in 45:17. YJ, 137th in 58:26 had to make do with 2nd V70 out of 9. TF was 141st in 58:34, 5th LV40 out of 11. I clocked 65:35, 9th V60 out of 11 and BLB (Big Little Brother) Bob recorded 68:27,  215th out of 245 finishers.

TF's pace was 8:22 per mile; not quite the sub 8 she was looking for, but taking account of the hills, the ice and the longer distance than the 10k she is targetting, I'm sure it will convert to a sub 50 minute 10k sometime soon. 

And if you're interested, no, it wasn't a good idea to make a large hole in a litre bottle of Johnnie Walker Red Label, in the wee small hours of race day, in the company of a guy whose early athletic achievements include an outright win in the Horwich Beer Race.

Hoping for UTUP tomorrow

It will be my first run for nearly three weeks but as no Calderdale and no XC, will try to get up and go. Can't make solstice due to prior engagement (parteeeeeeee!)

Tomorrow

I shall be UTUPing tomorrow and will be at the Cherry Tree tomorrow night.

Livin’ up to it’s Name

Sitting in my car on Saturday morning, the Usual Time came and went and I considered returning home for a run through the woods and over the golf course to Haigh Hall.  The rain was persistent and the prospect of a solo run in thick clag over a very white Winter Hill didn’t seem that inviting.  However just as I was about to leave two cars arrived simultaneously which were recognisable as YJ’s and EYJ’s,  and from another car which I hadn’t recognised TA appeared.  A few minutes later and EtU joined us.  The roads were more treacherous  than the hills and some of our gang had considerable difficulty in reaching the start.

Route choices considered, we set off for……  the Trespass stone and here it is in all its glory

With not much height gained the rain turned to snow giving spectacular winter views from the Trespass Stone above, with a little embelishment by EYJ!

From the Stone looking over the valley with an hint of an inversion, across to Burnt Edge

Gilligant’s Farm

and above and below couple of snaps from the stone

It wasn’t a day for hanging about and so no further piccies taken.  Our route took us from the Lower Barn, through the gardens and along our usual diagonal route to Two Lads, above the quarry to Burnt Edge and out to the Trespass Stone.  We were following a lone set of fellshoes which I suspected were those of FSS (which was correct).  From TS up past the shooting hut to WH trigpoint and then down to cross the track down to Lower Houses and back to LB.  FSS caught us as we ran down from the trigpoint and you can see more piccies here of places you’ll recognise.  Great morning out.

All in all we covered 9 miles, but fairly hard and slow going in the conditions with height gained just over 1500ft.  Looking forward to more this Sat UTUP, followed by evening at the Cherry Tree.  Thanks to EtU for arrangements.

NLN

Winter Solstice Do

Just a reminder that the Cherry Tree at Blackrod is expecting us on the evening of Saturday 11th December.

This Week

Thursday ~ UTUP
Saturday a.m ~ UTUP
Saturday p.m ~ Cherry Tree at Blackrod
Sunday ~ Longridge Christmas Pudding 7

Last Night

Only Botters and me braved the heights of Winter Hill. You know how cold it was at street level; it was bitter on top.

UTUP

I was planning a brief appearance on Saturday, but as I need to be at Boggart Hole Clough on cross country duties later on and I'm planning on using Public Transport to get there, I'll not manage this week. Should hopefully be ok for next Saturday morning all being well.

Speaking of public transport, so far this week I've been charged varying amounts on the bus home from Bolton. I have 2 options, either bus down Deane Rd (540, quarter past/ quarter to hour) or St Helens Rd (582, on the hour/half past hour), both similar distances and same bus company. Tues it was £1.80, Weds £2.60, Thurs £2.10. I await with interest what tonights charge will be. I should point out that I'm giving the name of bus stop, road junction and a good discription of where the stop is in relation to shops/garages etc!!

TF

This Week

Planning to UTUP today, Thursday 2nd.  In view of the snow, the mast road to the trig point in studs could be fun.

UTUPing Saturday.

No plan to do the Calderdale Way, t'Y, and thanks, but no thanks for the LDWA do invite on Friday, but I need to keep hungry and thirsty for our works (should that have an apostrophe?) do at the barn on Saturday.

Christmas Do's

Sorry that I've not seen anyone recently, or even posted. Came down with a cold over a week ago and just about clearing up now so I've not run since Monday of last week.
If anyone fancies going to the LDWA Christmas Do tomorrow night, phone or txt me on 07787 948671 as I have a couple of spare tickets. It's the East Lancs do but I'm sure they'll let West Lancs people in!
Is anyone down for a leg of the Calderdale Way Relay (provided the snow clears sufficiently by 12th)? I've offered my services should the vets team become sufficiently depleted to get down to my level.