Monday, April 16, 2018
Saturday 21st April 2018
Neither YJ nor I will be UTUPing this coming Saturday, John will be nearing the end of his taper for the Blackpool Marathon, and I may be Parkrunning in Derby.
Sunday, April 15, 2018
A Second Tour of (some of) the Central and Western Lakeland Valleys
If your refer to my post of 27th June 2016, you will see that we were left with unfinished business. Wind on almost 22 months:-
Over a recent couple of beers, Steve (B) (he doesn't answer to his allotted blog name) told me that it was time to put this one to bed; apparently he and YJ had decided this at a previous drinking session. After some discussion, we decided that we should use the original plan (see 27/6/16), but in reverse order, so that we mop up the missed passes and can go home any time after we hit our route of two years ago.
We're looking at the second half of June, either a Saturday or a Wednesday - a Saturday would no doubt suit those of us that still have an attendance clause attached to their monthly pay cheque. Comments please from interested parties - I can email you full details of the original plan if you wish.
Over a recent couple of beers, Steve (B) (he doesn't answer to his allotted blog name) told me that it was time to put this one to bed; apparently he and YJ had decided this at a previous drinking session. After some discussion, we decided that we should use the original plan (see 27/6/16), but in reverse order, so that we mop up the missed passes and can go home any time after we hit our route of two years ago.
We're looking at the second half of June, either a Saturday or a Wednesday - a Saturday would no doubt suit those of us that still have an attendance clause attached to their monthly pay cheque. Comments please from interested parties - I can email you full details of the original plan if you wish.
Friday, April 13, 2018
Thursday, April 05, 2018
'Do' on Friday 6th
Further to my post of March 16th, I have booked a table for 7:30 for tomorrow evening, at the Black Horse, Limbrick.
Hope to see lots of you there.
Hope to see lots of you there.
Monday, April 02, 2018
Pike Race 2018
Where to start? - Same as every year, at the bus turnround on Lever Park Avenue! Well that's not quite what I meant, so let's go back a bit further.
I knew this year was going to be harder than last - one year older (no escaping that) - a few pounds heavier (mea culpa, although the OSP is trying to put weight back on by increasing portion sizes - for both of us! So not all my fault) - and averaging only 24 miles a week compared with 31 last year. So, as ever; hoping for a good run, expecting a bad one - blessed is he who expecteth nothing, for he shall not be disappointed.
The Pike Race has always been special to me, it was my first fell race, and I was then running in Notts AC colours. It was 1979 and Pete Ravald won, just 3 seconds in front of (ever the bridesmaid) Shorty. A quick scan down the (now yellowing) results for that day suggests that only Albert, George Arnold and I are still racing on the local scene. The numbers have increased since then, 220 in '79, 354 last Saturday.
Anyway, as they say, nostalgia ain't what it used to be so let's move on half a lifetime.
Fewer old faces on the start line, a lot of new ones in Horwich vests. Mostly unknown to me; for many years we got to know all the recent additions over a beer or two in the RMI after Tuesday training, but no more - stoppit, I said no more nostalgia!
Particular targets for me were to beat my older brother John, and Ray, a friend of one of my daughters who I had said should give it a go. Cut to the chase, or rather to the end of the chase; John beat me by over 5 minutes, Ray by almost 5. We were all beaten by Tony Hesketh,Tony Varley, John Parker and many, many more, whilst t'Y managed to finish behind Ray, but in front of me.
But Horwich as a club had a good race - first open men's team, first vets men's team and fifth ladies' team. Incidentally and unusually, TF's club - Salford - had two finishers (wow!) and although placing 5th and 6th had insufficient runners to complete a team.
Good to see the ever cheerful, six times Pike Race winner Paul Dugdale in the Crown later, but sad to hear the he is awaiting joint surgery for osteoarthritis. Hope they sort you out soon, Paul, guys like you always make me feel guilty, you wear yourselves out with superb results, whilst I have never gone fast enough to do myself any damage, but just keep crawling along - oh for that 16 minutes of glory (that's about how long it would take to pull off a win).
I will leave you with this picture of Ray approaching the finish, of special note because he had both feet off the ground, something neither of the bros has aspired to in recent years:-
I knew this year was going to be harder than last - one year older (no escaping that) - a few pounds heavier (mea culpa, although the OSP is trying to put weight back on by increasing portion sizes - for both of us! So not all my fault) - and averaging only 24 miles a week compared with 31 last year. So, as ever; hoping for a good run, expecting a bad one - blessed is he who expecteth nothing, for he shall not be disappointed.
The Pike Race has always been special to me, it was my first fell race, and I was then running in Notts AC colours. It was 1979 and Pete Ravald won, just 3 seconds in front of (ever the bridesmaid) Shorty. A quick scan down the (now yellowing) results for that day suggests that only Albert, George Arnold and I are still racing on the local scene. The numbers have increased since then, 220 in '79, 354 last Saturday.
Anyway, as they say, nostalgia ain't what it used to be so let's move on half a lifetime.
Fewer old faces on the start line, a lot of new ones in Horwich vests. Mostly unknown to me; for many years we got to know all the recent additions over a beer or two in the RMI after Tuesday training, but no more - stoppit, I said no more nostalgia!
Particular targets for me were to beat my older brother John, and Ray, a friend of one of my daughters who I had said should give it a go. Cut to the chase, or rather to the end of the chase; John beat me by over 5 minutes, Ray by almost 5. We were all beaten by Tony Hesketh,Tony Varley, John Parker and many, many more, whilst t'Y managed to finish behind Ray, but in front of me.
But Horwich as a club had a good race - first open men's team, first vets men's team and fifth ladies' team. Incidentally and unusually, TF's club - Salford - had two finishers (wow!) and although placing 5th and 6th had insufficient runners to complete a team.
Good to see the ever cheerful, six times Pike Race winner Paul Dugdale in the Crown later, but sad to hear the he is awaiting joint surgery for osteoarthritis. Hope they sort you out soon, Paul, guys like you always make me feel guilty, you wear yourselves out with superb results, whilst I have never gone fast enough to do myself any damage, but just keep crawling along - oh for that 16 minutes of glory (that's about how long it would take to pull off a win).
I will leave you with this picture of Ray approaching the finish, of special note because he had both feet off the ground, something neither of the bros has aspired to in recent years:-
Hope to see you all next year.
Unrivalled!
There is a group of three hills near the north coast of the Lleyn Peninsula known collectively as Yr Eifl. Our Welsh neighbours take great delight in hearing us misinterpret this as meaning 'The Rivals', when anyone with even the faintest grasp of their language knows that this means 'the forks'. I had been aware of their commanding appearance since holidaying on the peninsula over 30 years ago, but had never got round to climbing them. So when I came across a holiday cottage on the internet, several months ago, which was less than a mile from the most easterly peak it seemed too good an opportunity to miss, so Saturday 24th March saw me setting off from that cottage to make good this gap in my 'mountaineering' experiences.
Tre'r Ceiri, or Town of the Giants, stands just 1,591 ft high and is the site of Wales' biggest and best preserved Iron Age fort. It was occupied before the Roman invasion, and from what I can gather, remained in indigenous hands throughout the Latin occupation. The remains of over one hundred stone huts can still be seen as can a large part of the perimeter wall:-
Although it will be obvious from the above that visibility was poor on the day, navigation was not a problem due to the compact nature of the 'rivals'.
From there,it was barely a mile to the highest point, Garn Ganol (also the highest point on the whole peninsula) at 1,841 ft, which was the site of a trig point incorporating some unusual ironwork, in memory of an unconsummated love affair:-
Picture half inched from the 'Trigpointing UK' website.
The low cloud obscured all views from there, but this photograph, taken from the third top shows most of Garn Ganol, with Tre'r Ceiri in the left background:-
The third top, Garn For, is the lowest of the three at 1,457 ft, but, perched so close to the sea, is perhaps the most dramatic:-
From there I descended seawards to the Welsh Language Centre at Nant Gwrtheyrn for bara brith and coffee, then stopping off for a pint of something stronger in Llithfaen before returning to my accommodation. Not a lot of miles, but some rough ground, a fair bit of climbing and a long delayed outing finally completed, all without any transport, other than my Salomons.
I took this shot the following day from the coastal path near Morfa Nefyn, about 4 miles west, which is the view that had stayed with me all those years:-
Yes, 'The Rivals' are definitely worth a visit if you're ever in that area - just don't ask me to pronounce any of the placenames!
Tre'r Ceiri, or Town of the Giants, stands just 1,591 ft high and is the site of Wales' biggest and best preserved Iron Age fort. It was occupied before the Roman invasion, and from what I can gather, remained in indigenous hands throughout the Latin occupation. The remains of over one hundred stone huts can still be seen as can a large part of the perimeter wall:-
Although it will be obvious from the above that visibility was poor on the day, navigation was not a problem due to the compact nature of the 'rivals'.
From there,it was barely a mile to the highest point, Garn Ganol (also the highest point on the whole peninsula) at 1,841 ft, which was the site of a trig point incorporating some unusual ironwork, in memory of an unconsummated love affair:-
Picture half inched from the 'Trigpointing UK' website.
The low cloud obscured all views from there, but this photograph, taken from the third top shows most of Garn Ganol, with Tre'r Ceiri in the left background:-
The third top, Garn For, is the lowest of the three at 1,457 ft, but, perched so close to the sea, is perhaps the most dramatic:-
From there I descended seawards to the Welsh Language Centre at Nant Gwrtheyrn for bara brith and coffee, then stopping off for a pint of something stronger in Llithfaen before returning to my accommodation. Not a lot of miles, but some rough ground, a fair bit of climbing and a long delayed outing finally completed, all without any transport, other than my Salomons.
I took this shot the following day from the coastal path near Morfa Nefyn, about 4 miles west, which is the view that had stayed with me all those years:-
Yes, 'The Rivals' are definitely worth a visit if you're ever in that area - just don't ask me to pronounce any of the placenames!
Monday, March 26, 2018
An excellent walk in the Yorkshire Dales with a nice brew to finish with
I thought for a change I would partake in one of East Lancs LDWA group walks so, with an hour's less sleep due to the clock springing forward into Summer, I headed over to meet up with the rest of the group (15 of us in all) at the car park near TLOB's abode. The weather at last was good, plenty of sunshine and dry all day, albeit somewhat frosty at the start. The pace was good : over 18 miles including an ascent of Fountains Fell to give around 2600ft of climb in total, completed in under 7 hours including lunch stops etc. Alas, the brew failed to materialise as on returning to Settle and phoning him, the Lord of Brentford had failed to remember that he and his ladyship had a function to attend in Preston. I did managed to get a quick chat and photo as they set off in the finery to see their subjects. But no sign of their butler? Photo at the end.
 |
| A glorious lunchtime view of Pen-y-ghent |
 |
| Still plenty of now around - there was particularly tricky bit descending from Fountains Fell |
 |
| Stainforth Scar |
 |
| Clouds look ominous yet no drop of rain all day and plenty of sunshine |
 |
| The Lord and Lady of Brentford looking resplendent on their way to mixing with the elite. |
Saturday, March 24, 2018
A couple of long'uns on next to nowt training
Probably like many others, the first quarter of this year has been somewhat of a dead loss. A combination of various ailments (flu bugs, viruses, throat infections, whatever you like to call them) and inhospitable weather has led a distinct lack of regular running.
I managed to complete the Anglezarke Amble, mostly in the company of YJ. I must have been already carrying one of the viruses that have been going the rounds as within a few hours, I was suffering which put paid to the next two weeks.
In my relative youth when I first completed the Haworth Hobble, my daughter, Diane, said she would like to run with me at some time in the future - when she was old enough as she was only 13 or 14 at the time.
At the time she ran cross-country races, but not the age group races with a limit of 2.5km to 3km but she ran with the seniors in the Today's Runner League, 5 or 6 miles and loved it. It has taken awhile for her to finally run the Hobble with me, but this year, she said she wanted to do it. She is now a FV40! It would be the longest run she had completed, if not the longest event, having a UK Ironman finisher's medal from 2011 to show. However, now the proud mum of a five year-old, she has less time for training.
We managed to meet up for a 17 mile training run covering most of the start and finish miles at the end of January and planned for another run a couple of weeks before the event, only for that to be the victim of the snow (more to do with getting there than the actual running) and I managed a 14 miler along the Calderdale Way and Hebden Bridge sections three days before the event.
On the day, I let Diane manage the pace : this after all was for her to complete her first ultra, and neither of us had been able to input the training mileage we had expected. Over the first ten miles we took it easy although there were a few behind us. By the time we reached Long Causeway car park (14 miles) we realised the sweeper was approaching the CP as we left. However, we were still on target for 9 hours and Diane's target was to finish within the 11 hour time limit. We caught and passed a group as we went through Mankinholes and stayed ahead through Stoodley and kept pushing onwards through to Heptonstall and Hardcastle Crags. I was hoping the steady pacing might allow us to move a bit quicker after that, especially as we had previously run the section from Heptonstall but now into ultra-marathon territory, it was a totally new experience for Diane.
The section over Stairs Lane was quite sapping as the snow had remained quite thick and we lost about ten places from there to the finish but we finished before darkness in 9:56 with four behind us. The winner took 4:33, indicating how difficult the terrain was this year, probably the wettest I have ever known it, and more than 20 minutes slower than his 2017 time. On a positive note, it was reasonably mild so I was able to run in shorts and we even saw a glimpse of the sun trying to break through the clouds for about 5 minutes. If you want an even longer report, Diane has published one on her fitbee website - but totally ignore the last bit.
With only a week's recovery it was the Two Crosses Circuit. I had been suffering from a cold all week and ran a whole two miles on the Tuesday. As you may recollect, last weekend was the Beast From The East Mark 2, and it was debatable that event would go ahead. I also help with the car parking prior to the event. I had decided that I would walk not run and was geared up for the "feels like -13°" predicted. After checking with event co-ordinator at 6am, I drove off from Horwich. The last part of the journey to Tottington was a bit scary on untreated roads. The decision was made at 7.45 that the event would go ahead but only using the short course of 17 miles. Nobody of the 91 starters complained (there were over 180 pre-entries and 18 entered on the day, at least one who was due to run the cancelled Wigan Half Marathon). Seventeen miles was challenging. There were many familiar faces: Kev, Albert, Jimmy Leyland, Mark Sammon, Josie. I walked most of the way with TM until she slipped off at speed at one checkpoint whilst I was getting my poles out and having a pit stop. We had built up a bit of a group due to those in front of us being unsure of the way and then encountering a wall of snow which we had to clamber through.
Link to Dave McDonald's video of us negotiating the drift which blocked the route
I had to work hard to get back to this group as there was no way I wished to be isolated going over Wet Moss. I caught them up but TM had gone and by the time we reached The Naughty Corner checkpoint was some six minutes ahead. The next section was also hard work with the biting easterly 50mph wind ripping to your face as you headed for Pilgrim's Cross and Peel Tower. After that, it felt tropical and I took a leisurely place, although I managed to slip going down int Reddisher Woods, causing a calf muscle pull which was agony and for a few seconds I thought my Two Crosses was over and the best I would be able to do would be hobbling to the next checkpoint a couple of miles away. I had a lovely chat with Nicole who was manning the next checkpoint and then pushed on with the occasional jog for the finish. For footwear I had made a last minute decision to wear my which had only had two previous outings, each of about three miles. For the most part they were the perfect choice for gripping the ice and snow with the exception of the muddy descent in Reddisher Woods. It was a hard day but well worth it. Hopefully next year, the weather will be kinder.
Pike Race next Saturday where Diane will have the opportunity to beat me with her descending skills.
I managed to complete the Anglezarke Amble, mostly in the company of YJ. I must have been already carrying one of the viruses that have been going the rounds as within a few hours, I was suffering which put paid to the next two weeks.
In my relative youth when I first completed the Haworth Hobble, my daughter, Diane, said she would like to run with me at some time in the future - when she was old enough as she was only 13 or 14 at the time.
At the time she ran cross-country races, but not the age group races with a limit of 2.5km to 3km but she ran with the seniors in the Today's Runner League, 5 or 6 miles and loved it. It has taken awhile for her to finally run the Hobble with me, but this year, she said she wanted to do it. She is now a FV40! It would be the longest run she had completed, if not the longest event, having a UK Ironman finisher's medal from 2011 to show. However, now the proud mum of a five year-old, she has less time for training.
We managed to meet up for a 17 mile training run covering most of the start and finish miles at the end of January and planned for another run a couple of weeks before the event, only for that to be the victim of the snow (more to do with getting there than the actual running) and I managed a 14 miler along the Calderdale Way and Hebden Bridge sections three days before the event.
On the day, I let Diane manage the pace : this after all was for her to complete her first ultra, and neither of us had been able to input the training mileage we had expected. Over the first ten miles we took it easy although there were a few behind us. By the time we reached Long Causeway car park (14 miles) we realised the sweeper was approaching the CP as we left. However, we were still on target for 9 hours and Diane's target was to finish within the 11 hour time limit. We caught and passed a group as we went through Mankinholes and stayed ahead through Stoodley and kept pushing onwards through to Heptonstall and Hardcastle Crags. I was hoping the steady pacing might allow us to move a bit quicker after that, especially as we had previously run the section from Heptonstall but now into ultra-marathon territory, it was a totally new experience for Diane.
The section over Stairs Lane was quite sapping as the snow had remained quite thick and we lost about ten places from there to the finish but we finished before darkness in 9:56 with four behind us. The winner took 4:33, indicating how difficult the terrain was this year, probably the wettest I have ever known it, and more than 20 minutes slower than his 2017 time. On a positive note, it was reasonably mild so I was able to run in shorts and we even saw a glimpse of the sun trying to break through the clouds for about 5 minutes. If you want an even longer report, Diane has published one on her fitbee website - but totally ignore the last bit.
 |
| taken by Eileen Woodhead - I then stopped for a chat with her |
 |
| View from the Pennine Way en route from Stoodley Pike to Hebden Bridge |
With only a week's recovery it was the Two Crosses Circuit. I had been suffering from a cold all week and ran a whole two miles on the Tuesday. As you may recollect, last weekend was the Beast From The East Mark 2, and it was debatable that event would go ahead. I also help with the car parking prior to the event. I had decided that I would walk not run and was geared up for the "feels like -13°" predicted. After checking with event co-ordinator at 6am, I drove off from Horwich. The last part of the journey to Tottington was a bit scary on untreated roads. The decision was made at 7.45 that the event would go ahead but only using the short course of 17 miles. Nobody of the 91 starters complained (there were over 180 pre-entries and 18 entered on the day, at least one who was due to run the cancelled Wigan Half Marathon). Seventeen miles was challenging. There were many familiar faces: Kev, Albert, Jimmy Leyland, Mark Sammon, Josie. I walked most of the way with TM until she slipped off at speed at one checkpoint whilst I was getting my poles out and having a pit stop. We had built up a bit of a group due to those in front of us being unsure of the way and then encountering a wall of snow which we had to clamber through.
Link to Dave McDonald's video of us negotiating the drift which blocked the route
I had to work hard to get back to this group as there was no way I wished to be isolated going over Wet Moss. I caught them up but TM had gone and by the time we reached The Naughty Corner checkpoint was some six minutes ahead. The next section was also hard work with the biting easterly 50mph wind ripping to your face as you headed for Pilgrim's Cross and Peel Tower. After that, it felt tropical and I took a leisurely place, although I managed to slip going down int Reddisher Woods, causing a calf muscle pull which was agony and for a few seconds I thought my Two Crosses was over and the best I would be able to do would be hobbling to the next checkpoint a couple of miles away. I had a lovely chat with Nicole who was manning the next checkpoint and then pushed on with the occasional jog for the finish. For footwear I had made a last minute decision to wear my which had only had two previous outings, each of about three miles. For the most part they were the perfect choice for gripping the ice and snow with the exception of the muddy descent in Reddisher Woods. It was a hard day but well worth it. Hopefully next year, the weather will be kinder.
 |
| Selfie of TM and T'Y and Batridge Car Park Checkpoint (taken by TM) |
Friday, March 16, 2018
Saturday UTUPs
I will be at the Lower Barn at 8:30 this coming Saturday, 17th March, but will not be there on the 24th, when I'll be roaming round the Lleyn Peninsula, or on the 31st when I'll taking it easy before the afternoon Pike Race. So far as I'm aware, just YJ and I have declared our intent to contend, but I am hopeful, whilst not necessarily expectant, that there will be others from our little group.
Friday 6th April is looking suitable for our next quarterly gathering. Any thoughts from anyone else?
Friday 6th April is looking suitable for our next quarterly gathering. Any thoughts from anyone else?
Thursday, March 08, 2018
Thursday, March 01, 2018
Saturday 3rd March
I will be UTUPing (Bottom Barn 8:30) this Saturday morning.
Apparently, today is the meteorologists' first day of spring; why do they need their own? What's wrong with the one the rest of us use? Perhaps, by the 21st, the weather will be more spring-like.
Apparently, today is the meteorologists' first day of spring; why do they need their own? What's wrong with the one the rest of us use? Perhaps, by the 21st, the weather will be more spring-like.
Friday, February 23, 2018
Monday, February 19, 2018
Saturday 24th February '18
I'll be on Anglesey on the 24th so not UTUPing. If my memory serves me well, YJ is planning a Parkrun, but perhaps he will confirm.
Friday, February 16, 2018
Saturday, January 27, 2018
My Kind of Parkrun (perhaps?)
OK, who's up for this:-
http://blog.parkrun.com/uk/2018/01/25/parkrun-profile-watergrove/
...must be worth a look.
http://blog.parkrun.com/uk/2018/01/25/parkrun-profile-watergrove/
...must be worth a look.
Monday, January 15, 2018
2018 targets
A Happy New Year to you all. I see there is not much banter about targets for this year except that TF will no doubt effortlessly complete her 50 miler.
I have also decided to participate in probably my final 50 miler and head back to the Pyrenees for the Grand Raid Pyrenees, or specifically the Tour de Lacs which is almost the same route as in 2014 albeit in the reverse direction. I think I had better get my entry in before the initial Jan 31st deadline.
At the moment my training for it is negligible : I only completed 12 miles in December and Saturday's 6 mile XC at Burnley was my longest run since mid November.
My entry for the Amble is in and accepted so that is the next build up for t'Hobble. I keep saying it will be my last Hobble but this year I shall be running it in a pair. When she was about 13 or 14, Diane said she wanted to do it but at that time she was too young and by the time she was old enough, it didn't happen. This year it will happen and I realise she will be 10 years older than I was the first time I ran it. We were hoping for a recce of part of the route this weekend but the weather forecast does not look very favourable. We shall see.
I have finally semi-retired from work so have reduced my workload to about two days per week. However, to keep me off the streets I have "volunteered" to be event co-ordinator for the Red Rose 50 - one way of avoiding doing it. The route is being revised so it will not be quite as challenging as last year and surely the weather cannot be worse. So, if you are up for it, enter (will soon be on SIEntries). If not, we don't turn away volunteers.
I have also decided to participate in probably my final 50 miler and head back to the Pyrenees for the Grand Raid Pyrenees, or specifically the Tour de Lacs which is almost the same route as in 2014 albeit in the reverse direction. I think I had better get my entry in before the initial Jan 31st deadline.
At the moment my training for it is negligible : I only completed 12 miles in December and Saturday's 6 mile XC at Burnley was my longest run since mid November.
My entry for the Amble is in and accepted so that is the next build up for t'Hobble. I keep saying it will be my last Hobble but this year I shall be running it in a pair. When she was about 13 or 14, Diane said she wanted to do it but at that time she was too young and by the time she was old enough, it didn't happen. This year it will happen and I realise she will be 10 years older than I was the first time I ran it. We were hoping for a recce of part of the route this weekend but the weather forecast does not look very favourable. We shall see.
I have finally semi-retired from work so have reduced my workload to about two days per week. However, to keep me off the streets I have "volunteered" to be event co-ordinator for the Red Rose 50 - one way of avoiding doing it. The route is being revised so it will not be quite as challenging as last year and surely the weather cannot be worse. So, if you are up for it, enter (will soon be on SIEntries). If not, we don't turn away volunteers.
Wednesday, January 10, 2018
Saturday 13th January
Hi y'all,
Just letting you know that neither of us bros will be UTUPing this coming Saturday.
Just letting you know that neither of us bros will be UTUPing this coming Saturday.
Sunday, January 07, 2018
A bit of a different run today
So today I decided to pack all my textbooks away (metaphorically, as they're all online these days) and head to the hills to enjoy a bit of sunshine.
I thought I'd go and reccie a bit of Leg 2 of the Calderdale Way in preparation of my 50m Ultra in the summer. The route starts from Cragg Vale and heads past Withens Clough Reservoir and then down towards Mankinholes.
As on the previous reccies I'd decided to use my 20L OMM rucksack, seemed a bit 'over-kill' today for a planned 6m run, and given the frosty conditions and running alone I thought 'you never know'.
Well today was the 'you never know' day. On the drop down towards Mankinholes, I came across a group of 4 people, 2 sat down. It was quickly established that the 'casualty' had slipped on the icy path and gone over on her ankle. Her friend was sat down with her trying to keep her warm. Her mum had rung 999, but had found it difficult to describe where exactly they were other than 'up the hill from the pub' in Mankinholes.
So my emergency bivvy bag got to see the light of day for the first time since acquiring it 7-8yrs ago. It's one of these, and just about fits in the palm of your hand (5cm x 7cm), weighs nowt!
999 was phoned again to provide grid reference (964231), casualty got some Ibruprofen and general reassurance.
I was pretty relieved to hear the first set of sirens. I'd been there 45 mins at this point. It was chilly, but not as chilly as if you're lying immobilised on the ground. From my advantage point on the hill I could see the first MRT vehicle pull up on the road at the start of the Calderdale Way path.
They arrived in separate groups and the final team on the hill consisted of 13 of them, plus 1 dog.
I thought I'd go and reccie a bit of Leg 2 of the Calderdale Way in preparation of my 50m Ultra in the summer. The route starts from Cragg Vale and heads past Withens Clough Reservoir and then down towards Mankinholes.
As on the previous reccies I'd decided to use my 20L OMM rucksack, seemed a bit 'over-kill' today for a planned 6m run, and given the frosty conditions and running alone I thought 'you never know'.
Well today was the 'you never know' day. On the drop down towards Mankinholes, I came across a group of 4 people, 2 sat down. It was quickly established that the 'casualty' had slipped on the icy path and gone over on her ankle. Her friend was sat down with her trying to keep her warm. Her mum had rung 999, but had found it difficult to describe where exactly they were other than 'up the hill from the pub' in Mankinholes.
So my emergency bivvy bag got to see the light of day for the first time since acquiring it 7-8yrs ago. It's one of these, and just about fits in the palm of your hand (5cm x 7cm), weighs nowt!
999 was phoned again to provide grid reference (964231), casualty got some Ibruprofen and general reassurance.
I was pretty relieved to hear the first set of sirens. I'd been there 45 mins at this point. It was chilly, but not as chilly as if you're lying immobilised on the ground. From my advantage point on the hill I could see the first MRT vehicle pull up on the road at the start of the Calderdale Way path.
They arrived in separate groups and the final team on the hill consisted of 13 of them, plus 1 dog.
Real 'chuffed' to be told my GR was 'spot on'. I've always worried I'd get it wrong under pressure.
Bit of a report form CVSRT here http://www.cvsrt.org.uk/incidents/redirect/itemlist/date/2018/01?catid=4
I've had word back from the casualty's Mum, the hospital confirmed she has a fractured ankle and is now awaiting an op.
TF
Sunday, December 24, 2017
Season's Greetings
Happy Christmas to all my friends in WFDBWGUA. I am sorry about the lack of cards and the lateness of this message, but Anne is not at all well with labrynthitis and things are a bit fraught at present. We are postponing Christmas until she is better.
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Friday 22nd December 2017
Cancelled due to family illness - that is, Chris and my outing is cancelled, not the actual Friday 22nd.
TLoB is at a loose end on Friday morning whilst his better half does her Christmas shopping, so I'm meeting him at the lower barn (at 9:45) to roam around our local fells. All welcome.
Sunday, December 10, 2017
Xmas Run/Walk Tockholes Sat 16th Dec
Start times now confirmed as
Run 8:30am
Walk 9:00am
Return to cafe by 11:30am
All welcome
TF
Run 8:30am
Walk 9:00am
Return to cafe by 11:30am
All welcome
TF
Xmas Run/Walk Tockholes Sat 16th Dec
We thought (TF & SN) you'd like a change of venue this year for the post run/walk xmas coffee & mince pies etc. So we propose meeting at the Cafe at Tockholes
http://www.vaughnscountrycafe.co.uk/
Post Code for Sat Nav : BB3 0PA
Start time for runners is 8:30am and possibly 9-9:30am for the Walkers (SN will liaise). with the aim to be back at the cafe for about 11:30am.
I went and had a recce yesterday and the cafe is open from 10:30 - approx 3-4pm. The approach from Belmont was a bit dicey in the snow, so will keep a careful eye on the forecast and will post an update later in the week if there are any changes.
TF
http://www.vaughnscountrycafe.co.uk/
Post Code for Sat Nav : BB3 0PA
Start time for runners is 8:30am and possibly 9-9:30am for the Walkers (SN will liaise). with the aim to be back at the cafe for about 11:30am.
I went and had a recce yesterday and the cafe is open from 10:30 - approx 3-4pm. The approach from Belmont was a bit dicey in the snow, so will keep a careful eye on the forecast and will post an update later in the week if there are any changes.
TF
Monday, December 04, 2017
Picture if you will...
...two weary travellers, moving slowly along a snow covered track in a pine forest on a northern hillside. Approaching from a side path on their right, appear two wolf like beasts - for a moment the two pairs pause and eye each other suspiciously.
Then the beasts' owner appears, and it becomes clear that lives are not in danger, for the 'wolves' are in fact Northern Inuits, a breed that has been developed by crossing a number of sledge dog breeds with German Shepherds, especially to give a wolf like appearance, and the pine forest is Wilderswood. YJ and ETU engage the owner in friendly discussion for a few minutes, then both parties continue on their separate ways.
Panic over, we live to run another day.
Then the beasts' owner appears, and it becomes clear that lives are not in danger, for the 'wolves' are in fact Northern Inuits, a breed that has been developed by crossing a number of sledge dog breeds with German Shepherds, especially to give a wolf like appearance, and the pine forest is Wilderswood. YJ and ETU engage the owner in friendly discussion for a few minutes, then both parties continue on their separate ways.
Panic over, we live to run another day.
Sunday, November 19, 2017
Christmas/Quarterly 'Do'
Our Winter Solstice Quarterly/Christmas 'do' will be at the Black Horse Limbrick on Friday 8th December. There is a Christmas menu available, but this needs to be pre-ordered - contact me if you are interested, or indeed, if you have any intention of coming.
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
Snowdonia
In response to EtU's query about my Snowdonia marathon record I can disclose that my first appearance was in 2001 at the age of 62, the year I recorded my best finish of 3.29, a time which EtU must have bettered in his earlier years
Modesty forbids me from recording how many age group wins I have achieved, suffice to say that in 11 starts I have finished every one and only been beaten........as I say modesty forbids........though I do have a nice collection of prizes.
In response to EtU's query about my Snowdonia marathon record I can disclose that my first appearance was in 2001 at the age of 62, the year I recorded my best finish of 3.29, a time which EtU must have bettered in his earlier years
Modesty forbids me from recording how many age group wins I have achieved, suffice to say that in 11 starts I have finished every one and only been beaten........as I say modesty forbids........though I do have a nice collection of prizes.
Monday, November 13, 2017
Saturday 18th November
Neither of the Bros will be UTUPing on the 18th, YJ will be down in Brighton for their 10k on the Sunday, possibly Park Running on the Saturday, and I will be at Haigh Hall for my local Park Run.
Snowdonia Marathon 2017
Saturday 28th October saw YJ and yours truly lining up at the start of yet another Snowdonia Marathon; YJ well prepared, despite a greatly reduced training window, due to an undiagnosed, but thankfully cleared, health problem; self not at all well prepared, due to loss of mojo.
Five hours later saw YJ crossing the finish line with gun/chip times of 5:00:15/4:59:58 placing 1,221 out of 2,211 finishers and 1st V75.
Much, much later, and shortly before it went dark, I staggered over the finish line, muttering that this would be my last marathon ever - but an Irish lad in my dorm had told me the evening before that the Dingle Marathon is definitely worth doing, and I've never raced in Ireland...
Having won his age group, YJ gets a complimentary entry into next years race and then in 2019 he will have moved up to the V80 category, so I guess he'll just have to keep coming back, to add that award to his set - John, at what age did you start your collection of Snowdonia age group awards?
Five hours later saw YJ crossing the finish line with gun/chip times of 5:00:15/4:59:58 placing 1,221 out of 2,211 finishers and 1st V75.
Much, much later, and shortly before it went dark, I staggered over the finish line, muttering that this would be my last marathon ever - but an Irish lad in my dorm had told me the evening before that the Dingle Marathon is definitely worth doing, and I've never raced in Ireland...
Having won his age group, YJ gets a complimentary entry into next years race and then in 2019 he will have moved up to the V80 category, so I guess he'll just have to keep coming back, to add that award to his set - John, at what age did you start your collection of Snowdonia age group awards?
Friday, November 10, 2017
11th of the 11th of the 11th
Very short notice, I'm, afraid, but YJ and I will be UTUPing tomorrow then heading straight to the bomber memorial to pay our respects. There will be a formal service on Sunday, so we don't expect many to be there on Saturday, probably just us.
Better notice for the quarterly 'do', which will be on Friday 8th December at the Black Horse (please note change of date from the 1st and confirmation of venue).
Better notice for the quarterly 'do', which will be on Friday 8th December at the Black Horse (please note change of date from the 1st and confirmation of venue).
Wednesday, November 08, 2017
A Long Story Cut Short
Or The Tooth Fairy's Big Day
Readers of this blog will know that after our somewhat damp
trip to the western fells in September, the TF had only four Wainwrights left
to “bag”. The original outing had been scheduled for October 22nd
but had been postponed because of the weather. This was lucky for CB as he
couldn’t make that day but bad luck for EtU who was unable to be there last
Sunday.
TF and Botters travelled from a gloomy and wet Bolton at first
light, rendezvousing with TLoB at Jn36. We had a pleasant and promisingly sunny
drive to our starting point, Millbeck. Our first summit was Dodd, which was
last climbed by TLoB in 1991 when it was completely afforested. Now the summit
has been cleared. After an initial slog up by the side of a fence (a taste of
things to come), we were rewarded with a spectacular view of Derwent water and
Borrowdale. An easy trot up to the summit and back, and then it was decision
time. Either a long drop down to Ravenstones on a good path, followed by a long
climb to our next summit of Ullock Pike, or a yomp across some very rough
ground to save 1.5 miles and 500ft of climbing.
Eager beaver TLoB was keen to take the short cut, TF was a
little reticent. Botters was predictably clueless. Short cut winning the day, the first part of
our yomp wasn’t too bad, a gradual climb up a forest path with just the odd
branch or two to negotiate, but then we had to turn steeply uphill, climb a
fence and then slog our way through a steep slope of thick heather with no path
in the latter half, and only the heather to help us up. TLoB attacked the slope
like a mountain goat. TF and Botters slugged it out, finally reaching a good
track just below the summit of Ullock Pike. At this point Botters announced
that he needed a banana so TLoB had to run off to avoid a projectile vomiting
session which might have upset the others, not to mention the walkers we now
encountered. Ullock Pike and Long Side were soon ticked off and the final
summit of Carl Side was reached. TLoB graciously held back at this point as he
and Botters SB applauded TF onto the top, photos were taken and then SB
produced a bottle of Champagne that he had very kindly lugged all the way up
just so that we could mark the occasion properly. SB then gave a speech which
had a large input from EtU and included several new words for our delectation! So
as not to miss EtU out, here is the transcript:
“I asked Ed as our missing
‘friend in common’ for a speech that could be delivered when we reach the
summit of Julie’s last (214th) of Wainwrights’ fells, because this
is what he would have done if he were here on this momentous occasion. He
didn’t give me what I asked for I suspect because he doesn’t want to foster
dependency. He might also fear that we may resort not to ask him to come on
future outings but just provide a few words of encouragement as a less
troublesome substitute which can simply be uploaded to Ed’s Echo Chamber
blog. What he did provide however were a few pointers. Now you may start to notice a smattering of
strange words being used, which I would like to deny all responsibility for
before we go any further…..
Ed suggested that the words I
use be accompanied by a glass of fizz to celebrate the fact that Julie's
extended expedition celebrates her 40th year. It’s actually her 50th
looming apparently, but Ed wanted me to say 40th so I feel duty
bound to ‘he-who-is-missing’, to comply.
Ed says it's not clear why
Julie only declared her hand so late in the year. Perhaps, he said, she wanted to have the
finishing post in sight before she went public. Ed would also like to know if
she ever sorted out a top beginning with 'J'? Apparently, at one point Julie
was planning an outing that took in tops that all started with the letters of
her name and 'J' fell into the 'too difficult' category.”
At
this point the TF confirmed that although not easy, she had managed to
construct a JULIE challenge.
“Ed did ask that I send his
congratulations. He says he would have loved to be here to offer his
congratulations in person, but he had a pre-booked church appointment. This is
so strange it must be true, and to be fair, I have never known Ed to tell a
porky.
I am also instructed to ask
whether she is arranging her 40th party, or does she want it to
be a surprise?! Apparently now that Julie’s Wainwright gig economy-type
challenge is complete we may be moving into the ‘cuffing season’.
Now you will I am sure have
noticed the strange words. This again was at the behest of our missing
wordsmith. He sent me a cutting from his favourite and oft quoted rag ‘the
Daily Mail’ which lists the hot new words for 2017. (Google the definitions if
you are so inclined). The new word I want to finish with is Corbynmania which
Ed says Chris may like, but Ed wishes it noted that his spell-checker tells him
it is not a real word.”
TLoB added his own few words in commendation of the TF, and
then it was a pleasant and surprisingly easy descent which included some
spectacular zigzags then followed before all too soon our day was done.
Hearty congratulations to the TF. Doing the Wainwrights is
hard and requires commitment and good planning, both of which attributes the TF
has in abundance. All so thanks are due to TLoB who enlivened the outing with
many an entertaining story, which were all prefaced with ‘To cut a long story
short…’ We would have needed to take in
a few more summits to have had time for the unedited versions. And a special
thank you to TF from TLoB for the pleasure of joining her on three outings and
14 summits this year. Botters was just
delighted to be let out of the house, but had little concept of where he was or
what he was doing.
Although this article will appear as having been written by me, it is in fact a joint effort by both Botters and myself. I leave it to you dear reader to decide who wrote which bits.
Tuesday, November 07, 2017
The Tooth Fairy's Big Day
Many congratulations to the TF on her magnificent achievement of completing all 214 Wainwrights. . SB and I had the honour of accompanying her last Sunday when she knocked off the last four and a full report will appear here soon.
Thursday, October 19, 2017
Last 4 Wainwrights
The forecast for Sunday is not good, so I've decided to cancel the trip to claim my last 4 Wainwrights this weekend.
I intend to complete by the end of the year, so if we enter a period of settled weather which means I can give sufficient notice for an alternative date, then I'll post on the blog. Otherwise I may have to take a very short notice decision to take advantage of any reasonable weather.
TF
The forecast for Sunday is not good, so I've decided to cancel the trip to claim my last 4 Wainwrights this weekend.
I intend to complete by the end of the year, so if we enter a period of settled weather which means I can give sufficient notice for an alternative date, then I'll post on the blog. Otherwise I may have to take a very short notice decision to take advantage of any reasonable weather.
TF
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Completing My Wainwrights
I have 4 final summits to tick off for my first completion.
EtU and TLoB expressed an interest in seeing me safely round these. They've been keen participants over the last couple of months on some of my other trips and felt a 'group' outing should be attempted to celebrate the occasion.
The last 4 summits are Dodd, Ullock Pike, Long Side and Carl Side.
We have provisionally suggested a date of Sunday 22nd October. Meeting in Keswick. Start time between 9-10am.
If you're interested to come along and join in then put the date in your diary. Lift-sharing and other details will be firmed up nearer the time. Given the exposed nature of the ridge we will be a little weather dependent but will see how things go.
TF
I have 4 final summits to tick off for my first completion.
EtU and TLoB expressed an interest in seeing me safely round these. They've been keen participants over the last couple of months on some of my other trips and felt a 'group' outing should be attempted to celebrate the occasion.
The last 4 summits are Dodd, Ullock Pike, Long Side and Carl Side.
We have provisionally suggested a date of Sunday 22nd October. Meeting in Keswick. Start time between 9-10am.
If you're interested to come along and join in then put the date in your diary. Lift-sharing and other details will be firmed up nearer the time. Given the exposed nature of the ridge we will be a little weather dependent but will see how things go.
TF
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
Quarterly do - Equinox
I know that EtU is unavailable until well into October but the Equinox does fall around Sept 22nd. As my better half has taken the evening off from Guide Dogs we shall be going out to celebrate a non-signifiant birthday on Friday 22nd. We are happy to go the the Black Horse at Limbrick. If any others would like to join us, it will be wonderful. If the numbers need us to book some tables, we can do so. We could go somewhere else but have always enjoyed the Black Horse. I'll also email as the blog is not as frequently used as once upon a time.
BTW, is anyone, else apart from TM and I, taking part in the Red Rose 50 this coming Saturday?
BTW, is anyone, else apart from TM and I, taking part in the Red Rose 50 this coming Saturday?
Thursday, September 07, 2017
Another day in the Lakes
The TF has almost finished her Wainwrights and following last month's very successful outing to the Far Eastern fells, she decided to arrange another trip. There were two options, four peaks in the Northern fells if the weather was good, or six in the Western fells if it wasn't.
The forecast was dire and the whole trip was in doubt until late Monday when it was decided to risk the Western option and so I picked EtU up at our Jn 36 rendezvous, and we met up with the TF in Keswick about an hour later. Last month we travelled by boat to the start of our run, this time it was by bus, which I would highly recommend; scenic and relaxing.
We arrived in Buttermere and set off round Crummock Water in "that rain what gets you wet." Conditions underfoot were no better and within half a mile we had all given up trying to avoid the wet sections as we were already soaked. A long and slightly tedious slog up to Floutern Pass ( which can only be described as a morass) was followed by an enjoyable climb to Hen Comb, our first summit. We then had to find our way in very poor visibility to Gavel Fell and were temporarily confused by a small hill called Floutern Cap, but the TF is an excellent navigator and she soon had us on the right path to Gavel Fell, Blake Fell and Burnbank Fell. The weather had improved by this stage but we had fallen behind schedule due to the weather and the conditions underfoot, and a decision was taken to abandon the last two peaks (Fellbarrow and Low Fell) and head for the Kirkstile Inn instead.
A much needed cup of tea and a warm by an open fire revived our spirits and we jogged the last 1.5 miles to catch the bus back to Keswick. The TF is now down to 4 Wainwrights left to climb, and EtU and I are looking forward to joining her when she completes them.
Watch this space.
The forecast was dire and the whole trip was in doubt until late Monday when it was decided to risk the Western option and so I picked EtU up at our Jn 36 rendezvous, and we met up with the TF in Keswick about an hour later. Last month we travelled by boat to the start of our run, this time it was by bus, which I would highly recommend; scenic and relaxing.
We arrived in Buttermere and set off round Crummock Water in "that rain what gets you wet." Conditions underfoot were no better and within half a mile we had all given up trying to avoid the wet sections as we were already soaked. A long and slightly tedious slog up to Floutern Pass ( which can only be described as a morass) was followed by an enjoyable climb to Hen Comb, our first summit. We then had to find our way in very poor visibility to Gavel Fell and were temporarily confused by a small hill called Floutern Cap, but the TF is an excellent navigator and she soon had us on the right path to Gavel Fell, Blake Fell and Burnbank Fell. The weather had improved by this stage but we had fallen behind schedule due to the weather and the conditions underfoot, and a decision was taken to abandon the last two peaks (Fellbarrow and Low Fell) and head for the Kirkstile Inn instead.
A much needed cup of tea and a warm by an open fire revived our spirits and we jogged the last 1.5 miles to catch the bus back to Keswick. The TF is now down to 4 Wainwrights left to climb, and EtU and I are looking forward to joining her when she completes them.
Watch this space.
Sunday, August 06, 2017
A Grand Day in the Lakes
Despite living within an hour of the Lakes, I have hardly visited it since my return north, so I was well keen to join the TF on her day out last Friday. EtU kindly picked me up at jn 36 and we met the TF at Glenridding in good time for a cuppa before our boat trip. We had a very pleasant 35min cruise along Ullswater to Howtown before setting of up the steep climb to our first summit of Steel Knotts. There then followed some desperate manoeuvres in the waist high bracken before a steady climb on to Roman road just south of Wether Hill.
At this point the weather was most unAugustlike and we put on our spare clothes for a food break at which both EtU and the TF tried to poison me by eating bananas. Perhaps they were trying to tell me something! A long steady run brought us to High Raise, then Rampsgill Head ( I also "bagged" Kidsty Pike in order to avoid the bananas), then The Knott and Rest Dodd.
At this point EtU confirmed what I have known for years: that he is a very sensible chap indeed. The TF wanted to add The Nab to her Wainwright summits which involved an out and back run of just over 2 miles, but EtU said he would give it a miss. A very wise choice as to say it was damp underfoot would be an understatement. We ran/swam our way to The Nab but avoided the worst of the morass by taking a wider line on our return.
The TF is a superb navigator and found a grassy trod to Angletarn Pikes and down to Boardale Hause where we reunited with EtU before the descent to Patterdale and then along the road to Glenridding for tea and cakes.
Thanks to Julie for the idea and the route planning, to Ed for the lift, and to both for making it a grand day out.
At this point the weather was most unAugustlike and we put on our spare clothes for a food break at which both EtU and the TF tried to poison me by eating bananas. Perhaps they were trying to tell me something! A long steady run brought us to High Raise, then Rampsgill Head ( I also "bagged" Kidsty Pike in order to avoid the bananas), then The Knott and Rest Dodd.
At this point EtU confirmed what I have known for years: that he is a very sensible chap indeed. The TF wanted to add The Nab to her Wainwright summits which involved an out and back run of just over 2 miles, but EtU said he would give it a miss. A very wise choice as to say it was damp underfoot would be an understatement. We ran/swam our way to The Nab but avoided the worst of the morass by taking a wider line on our return.
The TF is a superb navigator and found a grassy trod to Angletarn Pikes and down to Boardale Hause where we reunited with EtU before the descent to Patterdale and then along the road to Glenridding for tea and cakes.
Thanks to Julie for the idea and the route planning, to Ed for the lift, and to both for making it a grand day out.
Monday, July 17, 2017
Summer Outing Friday 4th August
I'm planning a summer outing for Friday 4th August with a little twist.
I have a few Wainwrights to tick off, namely Steel Knotts, Rest Dodd, The Nab and Brock Crags.
The starting point for the route will be at the pier in Glenridding. So perhaps the astute ones will realise that the little twist involves a trip on the Ullswater Steamer across to Howtown where we'll swap water for Fell and return to Glenridding via the aforementioned tops. The boat leaves at 9:45am (first one, cost £6:80) gets in Howtown about 10:20am and the Fell route is approx 12m, ft of climb will depend on route taken, but I'm guessing about 4-5hrs at a steady pace.
The definitive Fell route will depend on weather conditions on the day, ideally taking a higher route via Rampsgill Head and a little out'n'back to nab The Nab. Poorer conditions may dictate a drop to the valley from Steel Knotts. Last 1-2m may have to be along the road unless you fancy a swim back to the pier.
Expressions of interest will do for now, as firm numbers won't be required until nearer the time when weather conditions will be more certain.
EtU and TLoB have shown their hand, with EtU prepared to help with co-ordinating the car-share as I'm planning to stay up for the weekend and will be there early to get the tickets for the boat.
Will keep you posted for any further info
TF
I have a few Wainwrights to tick off, namely Steel Knotts, Rest Dodd, The Nab and Brock Crags.
The starting point for the route will be at the pier in Glenridding. So perhaps the astute ones will realise that the little twist involves a trip on the Ullswater Steamer across to Howtown where we'll swap water for Fell and return to Glenridding via the aforementioned tops. The boat leaves at 9:45am (first one, cost £6:80) gets in Howtown about 10:20am and the Fell route is approx 12m, ft of climb will depend on route taken, but I'm guessing about 4-5hrs at a steady pace.
The definitive Fell route will depend on weather conditions on the day, ideally taking a higher route via Rampsgill Head and a little out'n'back to nab The Nab. Poorer conditions may dictate a drop to the valley from Steel Knotts. Last 1-2m may have to be along the road unless you fancy a swim back to the pier.
Expressions of interest will do for now, as firm numbers won't be required until nearer the time when weather conditions will be more certain.
EtU and TLoB have shown their hand, with EtU prepared to help with co-ordinating the car-share as I'm planning to stay up for the weekend and will be there early to get the tickets for the boat.
Will keep you posted for any further info
TF
Thursday, July 13, 2017
Coope's Dozen Sat 29th July 2017
This year's round will be, as per established tradition, on the Saturday before the Borrowdale race; that is, on Saturday 29th July.
I will publicise this run on other forums, but please also publicise by word of mouth if you get the opportunity.
I have another running commitment later that day, so won't be doing much of the round, but I will be at the start to help get things under way.
There will be a small group of us 'running' a low key Dozen on Saturday 22nd July but the 29th will be the main event. Anyone planning to do both?
I will publicise this run on other forums, but please also publicise by word of mouth if you get the opportunity.
I have another running commitment later that day, so won't be doing much of the round, but I will be at the start to help get things under way.
There will be a small group of us 'running' a low key Dozen on Saturday 22nd July but the 29th will be the main event. Anyone planning to do both?
Sunday, July 09, 2017
Quarterly 'Do'
I have booked us into the Black Horse at Limbrick for a week on Friday - 21st of July.
That is just one calendar month after the due date.
I was asked how many of us will there be, and I had to say there'd be anything between 3 and 20. If you plan to come please let me know, then the pub can fine tune our seating arrangements.
That is just one calendar month after the due date.
I was asked how many of us will there be, and I had to say there'd be anything between 3 and 20. If you plan to come please let me know, then the pub can fine tune our seating arrangements.
Thursday, July 06, 2017
Edinburgh Ironman 70.3 (= Half Ironman)
No, I have not suddenly become a triathlete but thought it worthy to post up a link to my daughter Diane's posting of the Edinburgh Ironman 70.3 held last weekend. She originally entered the Ironman UK which will be held in these parts the weekend after next but decided that she wouldn't have the time for the training so switched to the easier option of half distance, or so she thought! Read on ...
Friday, June 30, 2017
Saturday 1st July '17
I'm Parkrunning tomorrow, so won't be at the Barn. However, YJ, still on the comeback trail, will be in attendance and glad of company.
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
I have had to change my email, as my old ntlworld address is no longer valid. My new email is
beesley52@outlook.com
My old email ceased to function on June 4th but apparently if you send an email to it, no "failed to deliver" message comes back. So if you have emailed me since June 4th, I wont have got it!
beesley52@outlook.com
My old email ceased to function on June 4th but apparently if you send an email to it, no "failed to deliver" message comes back. So if you have emailed me since June 4th, I wont have got it!
Saturday, June 10, 2017
102 or 104 miles of NYM 100 completed
I have finally got round to blogging about this year's LDWA 100 mile challenge.
Staying only 40 minutes away from the start at Malton School meant that it was an easy journey from Diane's in Thirsk with Julie and Diane in support. I took the advice from after last year's 100 to start on the 10am walker's start rather than the later noon start.
The first few checkpoints opened quite early so I had no problem about being slow enough to arrive after they opened. The predictions were for potential thunderstorms but at 10am, the weather was warm enough for T shirt and shorts. I set off amongst the middle of the pack so it took awhile before I could move through the walkers and run a little. I lost some ground as did many others when we all went round three sides of a field to see those behind being directed on the shortest route. My plan was for 4mph average during the day to get to Checkpoint 9 at Botton before darkness.
The first checkpoint at 4.7 miles was not actually a checkpoint but they provided drinks which I made sure I took on whilst many overtook me ignoring what I considered essential. With 64 minutes gone, I was well ahead of schedule. Checkpoint 2 (10.5 miles) at Hovingham arrived after 2hrs 29 and so did Julie and Diane as well as some excellent cakes which of course I enjoyed. The terrain so far had been gentle with the greatest difficulty avoiding too many nettles. A thunderstorm had also come and gone without too much excitement.
By now I had moved through the field and had generally found runners of my pace. A slight hiccup near Kirby Moorside cost me a couple of minutes and a check for the route back out of CP3 and I was soon on my way to Hutton-le-Hole, a very picturesque "chocolate box" village at CP4, delayed slightly by a rigorous kit check (there were four disqualifications) and beef stew and Yorkshire pudding.
A quarter way through in 6hrs 29, there was no way I would maintain such a pace, okay only a bit quicker than 4mph, but that wasn't in my plans anyway, sub 36 hours would be brilliant, not sub 26 hours! I now had the advantage of having recce'd the remainder of the route, although I also knew I was entering the hillier half. On through Rosedale (CP5, 32 miles in 8hrs 22) and then a tough 800ft climb up Blakey Ridge to The Lion Inn. I didn't mind the climb then some quicker running on the road before narrow tricky tracks across Wether Hill and then the descent to Botton. Julie and Diane had tried to meet up with me at The Lion Inn but think they had missed me so headed to Botton where they asked how many had come through to find that the leaders had only just arrived. From the event tracker they realised I was in the top 50. They walked back along the route half a mile to meet me. After walking for a short while, they told me to run on to the checkpoint and I found I could run that section at 8 minutes per mile. By Rosedale, the first of the faster runners who started at noon passed me so I was in with a mix of 10am and noon starters. I was in fact 38th to reach Botton (40 miles) at 8:41pm, so 10hrs 41. Food was soup and a salad with tasty local Botton cheese. Headtorch and an extra layer (but still warm enough for shorts) were added at Botton as I headed up the wet gully climb up High Moor and the trickiest descent of the 100 off Raven Hill. I just made it there before dark and then it was a some good running and a muddy climb up to Glaisdale Rigg and on to the first night checkpoint at Glaisdale. This checkpoint was manned by a South Wales LDWA group speaking a foreign language to which my response was"Ey up ar kid, tha knows tha'r'asta spake propa round 'ere. Ast tha got some decent snap?"
The night section was walked mainly with a couple of fast noon start walkers and good progress was made, eventually reaching the breakfast checkpoint CP10 at Fyling Hall school at 5.17 am (64 miles 19hrs 17). Dawn had come whilst at the previous checkpoint at CP9, Hawsker. The breakfast CP was where I planned to for a full kit change and sort out any blisters. I was not very well organised (I had been awake for nearly 24 hours) so took longer than I would have liked but eventually set off at about 6.50 am. My garmin battery had died before reaching Hawsker so I was not fully aware of the minutes ticking away : I switched to a similar garmin kindly lent by TM for the second "half" of the route.
Pace was initially ok then after about 4 miles had sudden twinges in my right leg and it refused to run so I was reduced to walking. Julie and Diane arrived just as I was leaving CP11 Littlebeck just before 9am with the clear skies and sunshine keeping me warm.
I reached CP12 Goathland Village Hall (74 miles) at 11:08, still over two hours ahead of my "slow" schedule which would see me finish at about 1am. Diane and Julie were there to meet me and Diane was going to "run" the next leg with me. The fact that I was no longer running but walking did not disappoint Diane as she had been laid low with a cold so had done no training for over a week. Stage 13 from Goathland to Snape is quite an interesting leg with initial moorland paths followed by a forest section and then the final mile along the road to Snape. I walked it all the way but pulled back three others who were initially not even in sight. By the time the road to Stape was reached, Diane told me to keep going at my pace which she couldn't manage to stay with!
I had recce'd the section from Stape to Lockton twice so I knew what was to come, two steep climbs totalling 800ft in just 4.8 miles. I tried a bit of running : I was able to run. Caught up with the next one who was also running. I crossed the NYM steam railway line at Levisham station and hit the first hill, speed walked up it : feeling great. Okay with the road descent from Levisham then zoomed up the second hill to Lockton. Back on track. Just three more stages to go. Okay on the next stage, got caught by a couple of 100 regulars who normally run sub 30 hours : stayed with them through Thornton-le-Dale. We were discussing why we do these events and vowed it would be the last (for one, his 10th). They slipped away from me before the final checkpoint. By the later checkpoints I was finding it difficult to eat. At the final CP I took on just three jelly babies. I did have High 5 in my bladder so kept drinking. I struggled a bit over the final few miles as I my right leg had again rejected the idea of running. However, I made it by dusk, just. 9.48 pm finish for 35 hours 48. Target achieved. The route description stated 102 miles, most people logged 104 miles but it was done.
Great looking meal at the finish : my stomach wanted none of it. I tried to be sick but there was nothing there. I had two rennies and at least felt a bit better but I was not in a good state. I was better than last year where I needed medical attention but unlike the Hobble or the GRP where I finished feeling as lively as when I started, my energies were used up. My legs were in pain as we drove back to Diane's but at least I lost only one night's sleep.
The perfect weekend would have been to spend Monday at Wembley watching the world's greatest football club in the Championship play-off final - you know the team, the one the bookies and pundits said would be relegated but next season will be playing teams that such Man U & Spurs who we used to be able put six past with ease! Somehow with the gulf in riches I think a repeat of those days are highly unlikely. If they can beat the bookies' predictions by one place that will be a bonus. A day at Wembley was not possible but by finishing on Sunday night I was able to watch the match in the local pub during on Monday afternoon.
This was probably my final 100. I had improved my time by ten hours. Of the 492 starters, 152 retired or were disqualified. I had the 116th fastest time. The fastest time was 22:41. Maybe I could have completed in 30 hours (a bloke who takes the same time as me on the Hobble did 30hrs 22, for 30th fastest) but it takes so much out of me on the second day, which is down to the ability to eat.
I shall do the Red Rose 50 (September 16th) but then I will stick to no longer than the Hobble.
Full results here.
Staying only 40 minutes away from the start at Malton School meant that it was an easy journey from Diane's in Thirsk with Julie and Diane in support. I took the advice from after last year's 100 to start on the 10am walker's start rather than the later noon start.
The first few checkpoints opened quite early so I had no problem about being slow enough to arrive after they opened. The predictions were for potential thunderstorms but at 10am, the weather was warm enough for T shirt and shorts. I set off amongst the middle of the pack so it took awhile before I could move through the walkers and run a little. I lost some ground as did many others when we all went round three sides of a field to see those behind being directed on the shortest route. My plan was for 4mph average during the day to get to Checkpoint 9 at Botton before darkness.
The first checkpoint at 4.7 miles was not actually a checkpoint but they provided drinks which I made sure I took on whilst many overtook me ignoring what I considered essential. With 64 minutes gone, I was well ahead of schedule. Checkpoint 2 (10.5 miles) at Hovingham arrived after 2hrs 29 and so did Julie and Diane as well as some excellent cakes which of course I enjoyed. The terrain so far had been gentle with the greatest difficulty avoiding too many nettles. A thunderstorm had also come and gone without too much excitement.
 |
| CP2 Hovingham just after the thunderstorm |
A quarter way through in 6hrs 29, there was no way I would maintain such a pace, okay only a bit quicker than 4mph, but that wasn't in my plans anyway, sub 36 hours would be brilliant, not sub 26 hours! I now had the advantage of having recce'd the remainder of the route, although I also knew I was entering the hillier half. On through Rosedale (CP5, 32 miles in 8hrs 22) and then a tough 800ft climb up Blakey Ridge to The Lion Inn. I didn't mind the climb then some quicker running on the road before narrow tricky tracks across Wether Hill and then the descent to Botton. Julie and Diane had tried to meet up with me at The Lion Inn but think they had missed me so headed to Botton where they asked how many had come through to find that the leaders had only just arrived. From the event tracker they realised I was in the top 50. They walked back along the route half a mile to meet me. After walking for a short while, they told me to run on to the checkpoint and I found I could run that section at 8 minutes per mile. By Rosedale, the first of the faster runners who started at noon passed me so I was in with a mix of 10am and noon starters. I was in fact 38th to reach Botton (40 miles) at 8:41pm, so 10hrs 41. Food was soup and a salad with tasty local Botton cheese. Headtorch and an extra layer (but still warm enough for shorts) were added at Botton as I headed up the wet gully climb up High Moor and the trickiest descent of the 100 off Raven Hill. I just made it there before dark and then it was a some good running and a muddy climb up to Glaisdale Rigg and on to the first night checkpoint at Glaisdale. This checkpoint was manned by a South Wales LDWA group speaking a foreign language to which my response was"Ey up ar kid, tha knows tha'r'asta spake propa round 'ere. Ast tha got some decent snap?"
 |
| A foreign welcome at CP7 Glaisdale |
Pace was initially ok then after about 4 miles had sudden twinges in my right leg and it refused to run so I was reduced to walking. Julie and Diane arrived just as I was leaving CP11 Littlebeck just before 9am with the clear skies and sunshine keeping me warm.
 |
| Right leg not great but otherwise feeling fine 68 miles in at Littlebeck |
I had recce'd the section from Stape to Lockton twice so I knew what was to come, two steep climbs totalling 800ft in just 4.8 miles. I tried a bit of running : I was able to run. Caught up with the next one who was also running. I crossed the NYM steam railway line at Levisham station and hit the first hill, speed walked up it : feeling great. Okay with the road descent from Levisham then zoomed up the second hill to Lockton. Back on track. Just three more stages to go. Okay on the next stage, got caught by a couple of 100 regulars who normally run sub 30 hours : stayed with them through Thornton-le-Dale. We were discussing why we do these events and vowed it would be the last (for one, his 10th). They slipped away from me before the final checkpoint. By the later checkpoints I was finding it difficult to eat. At the final CP I took on just three jelly babies. I did have High 5 in my bladder so kept drinking. I struggled a bit over the final few miles as I my right leg had again rejected the idea of running. However, I made it by dusk, just. 9.48 pm finish for 35 hours 48. Target achieved. The route description stated 102 miles, most people logged 104 miles but it was done.
Great looking meal at the finish : my stomach wanted none of it. I tried to be sick but there was nothing there. I had two rennies and at least felt a bit better but I was not in a good state. I was better than last year where I needed medical attention but unlike the Hobble or the GRP where I finished feeling as lively as when I started, my energies were used up. My legs were in pain as we drove back to Diane's but at least I lost only one night's sleep.
The perfect weekend would have been to spend Monday at Wembley watching the world's greatest football club in the Championship play-off final - you know the team, the one the bookies and pundits said would be relegated but next season will be playing teams that such Man U & Spurs who we used to be able put six past with ease! Somehow with the gulf in riches I think a repeat of those days are highly unlikely. If they can beat the bookies' predictions by one place that will be a bonus. A day at Wembley was not possible but by finishing on Sunday night I was able to watch the match in the local pub during on Monday afternoon.
This was probably my final 100. I had improved my time by ten hours. Of the 492 starters, 152 retired or were disqualified. I had the 116th fastest time. The fastest time was 22:41. Maybe I could have completed in 30 hours (a bloke who takes the same time as me on the Hobble did 30hrs 22, for 30th fastest) but it takes so much out of me on the second day, which is down to the ability to eat.
I shall do the Red Rose 50 (September 16th) but then I will stick to no longer than the Hobble.
Full results here.
Wednesday, June 07, 2017
She's in for the Long Haul
Nic'O and I had arranged to meet at Hordern Stoops this morning and very shortly after we had arrived, this lady appeared from the direction of the trig point:- http://breatheunity.com/unity-zone/kate-driskell-lands-end-john-ogroats/
We had a brief chat and within a couple of minutes she had set off for Spitlers Edge.
Many thanks Nicole, for tracing her blog. She seemed to be in good condition both physically and in spirit.
I had asked her how long she was expecting her shoes to last, and she explained that she had posted a pair forward, and would be donning them in just a few days. Apart from the expected shoes, she was entirely self contained and unsupported. She went on to say that in view of Tuesday's adverse weather forecast, she had last night eschewed canvas and stayed in the Holiday Inn - I bet she lingered in the bath.
Very best wishes, Kate, we hope you stay injury free and enjoy the next 500 miles.
We had a brief chat and within a couple of minutes she had set off for Spitlers Edge.
Many thanks Nicole, for tracing her blog. She seemed to be in good condition both physically and in spirit.
I had asked her how long she was expecting her shoes to last, and she explained that she had posted a pair forward, and would be donning them in just a few days. Apart from the expected shoes, she was entirely self contained and unsupported. She went on to say that in view of Tuesday's adverse weather forecast, she had last night eschewed canvas and stayed in the Holiday Inn - I bet she lingered in the bath.
Very best wishes, Kate, we hope you stay injury free and enjoy the next 500 miles.
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Back on the road
A small step for mankind, a huge step forward for myself. I finally go back to running today (yes in all this heat), not very far but definitely a start. Encouraged by this I shall be stepping up my Saturday walk from the Lower Barn on Saturday and will hopefully be able to run part of it. If anyone is planning a UTUP I will be there at 8.30 just to be sociable and say hello but if there are no indications I will start at a time to suit myself.
Thanks to all who have expressed concern and interest in my condition, which is as yet undiagnosed. Tests are ongoing.
A small step for mankind, a huge step forward for myself. I finally go back to running today (yes in all this heat), not very far but definitely a start. Encouraged by this I shall be stepping up my Saturday walk from the Lower Barn on Saturday and will hopefully be able to run part of it. If anyone is planning a UTUP I will be there at 8.30 just to be sociable and say hello but if there are no indications I will start at a time to suit myself.
Thanks to all who have expressed concern and interest in my condition, which is as yet undiagnosed. Tests are ongoing.
Tuesday, May 02, 2017
Slip sliding away
Which is one way of describing my running in 2017. First it was a hamstring at the end of January, which meant February was a write off, and now I have broken my wrist and am looking at at least 4 weeks in a plaster cast.
My own fault really. Living round here, I ought to know that wet limestone and fell shoes don't mix. I instinctively put my hand out to save myself and my wrist bent at an angle it wasn't designed to go.
Bugger!
My own fault really. Living round here, I ought to know that wet limestone and fell shoes don't mix. I instinctively put my hand out to save myself and my wrist bent at an angle it wasn't designed to go.
Bugger!
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
Caption Competition
Select from:- a. Fellas in the Mist - b. Three (Un)wise Men - c.Yes, he does look a bit like Charlie Chaplin - d. None of these.
There is no prize.
Monday, April 24, 2017
Saturday 29th April '17
I'll not be UTUPing this coming Saturday, as I'll be competing in the Cake Race at Diggle; a counter in the North West Area Fell Race Grand Prix. Further details here:- http://www.felljunior.org.uk/GP/ ('felljunior' is a red herring).
Saturday, April 22, 2017
Let's do something part 2
Anyone fancy a trip to the Dales next Wednesday (26th)? A Three Peaks traverse, needing two cars, about 16 miles and 3500ft of climbing.
Thursday, April 20, 2017
Diane's Pike Race plus upcoming races
Diane (Brown) had a brilliant run. Despite running in road shoes as she thought there was too much road for trail shoes, she improved her time on last year by nearly nine minutes to finish 308th in 33:01 (9th of 18 LV40). I think my days of beating her may be numbered as she also did do a gentle two hour session on the bike on Saturday morning, if there is such a thing as a gentle session around here. She is back for the Horwich Triathlon on April 30th so will have raced to the Pike twice in 15 days. Mary W is also entered in the triathlon as is Dr Hamer.
Anyone got plans for upcoming races? Unlike last year I am relatively free on Wednesday evenings so may do the Chorley Trail Race in Astley Park on May 3rd, although I may be busy in Horwich with other things (as some of you may be aware). See how things go. May Day Monday is usually Wray Caton Fell Race for me with a family day out for the Scarecrow Festival then the following weekend is my final weekend to recce the 100 route - just got the stage from Goathland to Snape of the second day to recce then will look at a couple of earlier stages of the route.
I suppose I ought to do some long runs this weekend - possible UTUP?
Anyone got plans for upcoming races? Unlike last year I am relatively free on Wednesday evenings so may do the Chorley Trail Race in Astley Park on May 3rd, although I may be busy in Horwich with other things (as some of you may be aware). See how things go. May Day Monday is usually Wray Caton Fell Race for me with a family day out for the Scarecrow Festival then the following weekend is my final weekend to recce the 100 route - just got the stage from Goathland to Snape of the second day to recce then will look at a couple of earlier stages of the route.
I suppose I ought to do some long runs this weekend - possible UTUP?
Monday, April 17, 2017
Pike Race 15th April 2017
It must be a long time since we had a good turnout for a race, indeed for anything, but there we were, four of us lined up on Lever Park Avenue waiting for the gun at 3:00 on Saturday afternoon.
Once we were under way I lost track of most of our squad but I did keep sight of Mat for most of the ascent. It was a cold day with a fair amount of breeze, but we escaped all but a few drops of the afternoon's shower.
The race was won in 17:27 by Horwich's Chris Farrell and the first lady home was Louisa Powell-Smith V45 of Ribble Valley in 21:02. Horwich also took the team prize with Bolton taking the ladies'
First for wfdbwgua was t'Y V60 (7/17) in 29:47 then Mat V75 (1/3) 33:31, Nic'O LV60 (2/3) 34:13 with yours truly, last of our squad V70(6/8) 36:18. Also in the mix was t'Y's daughter Diane, but not knowing her married name I couldn't pick her out of the results.
As ever, a good local race, with lots of support - well done everybody.
Don't forget, it's the OAPs' reunion in the RMI this coming (18th) Tuesday evening.
Once we were under way I lost track of most of our squad but I did keep sight of Mat for most of the ascent. It was a cold day with a fair amount of breeze, but we escaped all but a few drops of the afternoon's shower.
The race was won in 17:27 by Horwich's Chris Farrell and the first lady home was Louisa Powell-Smith V45 of Ribble Valley in 21:02. Horwich also took the team prize with Bolton taking the ladies'
First for wfdbwgua was t'Y V60 (7/17) in 29:47 then Mat V75 (1/3) 33:31, Nic'O LV60 (2/3) 34:13 with yours truly, last of our squad V70(6/8) 36:18. Also in the mix was t'Y's daughter Diane, but not knowing her married name I couldn't pick her out of the results.
As ever, a good local race, with lots of support - well done everybody.
Don't forget, it's the OAPs' reunion in the RMI this coming (18th) Tuesday evening.
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Let's Do Something!
At the moment we have no upcoming 'expedition'.
Interest has recently been shown in the following:-
The Howgill 2,000 footers
The Yorkshire Three Peaks
Ingleborough
The Chipping Trigs
and there may be others.
Would anyone like to set the ball rolling with any of these, proposing a date or dates and canvassing interest?
Monday, April 03, 2017
An Interesting Morning
Friday was the Equinox do in the Black Horse, and as SWINW and I were visiting her sister we came along and had a very pleasant evening, with good food, good beer and good company (from which you may infer that t'Y wasn't there!).
The next morning just EtU and I turned up at UTUP to go running, (although YJ and the TF were off for a walk whilst recovering from illness and injuries). Now EtU and I are 135 between us and despite our blistering pace we were soon overtaken by two very nice young ladies who wanted to know how to get to the Pike. Being ever the gentleman, I volunteered to guide them and was rewarded by being cuddled and photographed on the summit. They were delighted to have run up it for the first time, so if you bump into Michelle and Charlotte on a Saturday morning, please say hello from me.
We then went to Two Lads and the Trespass Stone and started up the path to the mast. However, as we reached the shooting huts, EtU noticed that all was not as it should be - they had been knocked down! Now the shooting huts had been there as long as I could remember (mid 70s) and probably a lot longer than that. So the question is why? The threatened rain had now arrived and it was a bedraggled and slightly dispirited duo that ran up to the trig point and then down to George's Lane. A run along the lane was enlivened by seeing a raven perched on a pole but there will be no photographic evidence as it was too wet to take a picture. On to Ammunition Corner and back to the Barn. 8.65 miles and 1500ft of climbing - an interesting and enjoyable morning out
The next morning just EtU and I turned up at UTUP to go running, (although YJ and the TF were off for a walk whilst recovering from illness and injuries). Now EtU and I are 135 between us and despite our blistering pace we were soon overtaken by two very nice young ladies who wanted to know how to get to the Pike. Being ever the gentleman, I volunteered to guide them and was rewarded by being cuddled and photographed on the summit. They were delighted to have run up it for the first time, so if you bump into Michelle and Charlotte on a Saturday morning, please say hello from me.
We then went to Two Lads and the Trespass Stone and started up the path to the mast. However, as we reached the shooting huts, EtU noticed that all was not as it should be - they had been knocked down! Now the shooting huts had been there as long as I could remember (mid 70s) and probably a lot longer than that. So the question is why? The threatened rain had now arrived and it was a bedraggled and slightly dispirited duo that ran up to the trig point and then down to George's Lane. A run along the lane was enlivened by seeing a raven perched on a pole but there will be no photographic evidence as it was too wet to take a picture. On to Ammunition Corner and back to the Barn. 8.65 miles and 1500ft of climbing - an interesting and enjoyable morning out
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
Runners' 'Do' - Friday 31st March, Black Horse, Limbrick
Hope you can come - CAN I HAVE NUMBERS PLEASE?
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
Saturday 18th March
I'll not be UTUPing as we'll be up at Santon, but planning to be out on the 25th.
Friday, March 10, 2017
Hobble tomorrow
There used to be a good gang of us doing it, now it's just me and That Young Chap. There are plenty of others from Horwich and Lostock though in the first "race full" Hobble for many a year. I'm sure they will have all gone home or close to doing so by the time I finish. It may be a PW tomorrow, being my first real long run of the year, but it is miles covered in preparation for NYM100.
Quarterly do anyone?
Quarterly do anyone?
Thursday, March 02, 2017
A Couple of Wainwrights...
...and no, that's not pints of beer of that name, but two of the tops included in AW's most excellent Pictorial Guide to the Southern Fells.
I've just come back from a few days up at Santon Bridge and whilst there had an outing with Our Northern Correspondent. He's on his second Wainwright round, intending to do them all in one year - he says it took him 69 years for his first completion. There were a couple just north of Coniston that he wanted to mop up before going further afield.
I'll not bore you with too much detail, but the first was Holme Fell (1,040ft (approx)) which we climbed from Yew Tree Tarn. It's a characterful little top and well worth the 30 minute climb from the road:-
Then a 5 minute drive to take us a little nearer Skelwith Bridge then out of the car again to tackle Black Fell and its rocky top, Black Crag (1,056ft):-
As you can see, even in mist there would be no confusion regarding whether you were on the right top, although it would be a crime against humanity if all the fells were labelled in this manner.
On the way up we passed the time of day with a herd of Belted Galloways, a breed that always presents itself most photogenically - and they reminded me of that conundrum as to why restaurants pride themselves on serving up rare breed meats - if they are that rare, should we be eating them - Sumatran Tiger sausages anyone?
A good morning out.
Apologies if all the photos are marred by that guy in the red cag - but where's Wally?
I've just come back from a few days up at Santon Bridge and whilst there had an outing with Our Northern Correspondent. He's on his second Wainwright round, intending to do them all in one year - he says it took him 69 years for his first completion. There were a couple just north of Coniston that he wanted to mop up before going further afield.
I'll not bore you with too much detail, but the first was Holme Fell (1,040ft (approx)) which we climbed from Yew Tree Tarn. It's a characterful little top and well worth the 30 minute climb from the road:-
Then a 5 minute drive to take us a little nearer Skelwith Bridge then out of the car again to tackle Black Fell and its rocky top, Black Crag (1,056ft):-
As you can see, even in mist there would be no confusion regarding whether you were on the right top, although it would be a crime against humanity if all the fells were labelled in this manner.
On the way up we passed the time of day with a herd of Belted Galloways, a breed that always presents itself most photogenically - and they reminded me of that conundrum as to why restaurants pride themselves on serving up rare breed meats - if they are that rare, should we be eating them - Sumatran Tiger sausages anyone?
A good morning out.
Apologies if all the photos are marred by that guy in the red cag - but where's Wally?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
