The 58th Fellsman - Third Time Lucky!

 I haven't really mentioned it much as I didn't want to tempt fate and have it all go horribly wrong again. But I was up on the last two attempts as not only was I healthy and un-injured (mostly) I had also had time for breakfast and a poo before setting off!!

Ok, back up a bit. Get a cup of tea/coffee/GnT this is a long one...

Alan, Trudy and I set off after work on Friday to drive over to Threshfield ahead of the 58th Fellsman event. We got there in plenty of time and got our tents set up in a little strip of grass that had been made available (no indoor sleeping this year). We took our stuff to the school and got through kit check with no problems. I saw a couple of friends and exchanged hugs and nerves.
That very stressful thing down, we went back to the tents, it wasn't overly warm, but it was a fine evening and we sat around having tea and snacks before it was time for supper at the school after which we snuggled down in our tents for a very cold night. I didn't sleep very well at all, sharing a tent with Trudy. I was awake by 4am listening to the curlews whooping and gave up about 4:40am as I needed the loo. Other folk were starting to stir, so we got up and made brews etc. There was frost on our tents but it was lining up to be a glorious day.

We caught the bus at half 6 as planned, got our trackers, numbers and tallies all sorted, then it was a matter of the nervous wait for the start. I saw a couple more people I knew and we all wished each other luck.

Part of the Fellsman rules are long-leggings and long sleeves, it was by now already quite warm. Very soon after the start the route was littered with disrobing runners!

The three of us had set off together, our fourth friend, Gavin had got called away and never made it. However, before we had reached the summit of Ingleborough, Trudy was pulling away. Alan and I had suspected this would happen as she is faster and stronger than us, well, me at least. I did say to Alan he was to run on if I was too slow but he seemed happy to stay.

I have blogged about the route before, not a lot has changed! This year though, with the recent lack of rain, the course so far was very dry underfoot. Even the double stream/river crossing before Kingsdale was bone dry. It is normally at least half way up your shins!

We were a little disappointed to be presented with Tesco flapjack instead of the normal homemade stuff, but oh well.

On the vertical climb up Gargareth, I felt a bit queasy. I had tried to do the climb all in one go, but didn't quite make it. I decided to walk to the check point at the top to get my breath back before even thinking about running on. I caught Alan once more and we trotted along to Great Combe, keeping our feet completely dry the whole way - unheard of.

I took a poor line off Great Combe and lost sight of Alan for a while, he is much better at descending than I am but he waited for me at Dent as he was busy stuffing his face. I still felt queasy, but having a sit down for a little while with a cup of tea and a cheese and onion pasty helped a bit. We set off again on the long climb towards Blea Moor. We mostly walked this section as it was all uphill, not very steep, but enough of a climb to warrant walking. I was happy to spot the crucial turning point off the good track onto a little trod which took us to an enclosed area which leads up to Blea Moor itself. My good mood had been short lived after Dent and Alan was grumpy too. We declared the track shit, this bog was shit and Blea Moor in particular was shit as we trudged our way up rocky tussocks, over at least 3 false summits etc. We did see a couple of runners heading in completely the wrong direction, then realised it was Trudy plus one other! We shouted them back and pointed them in the right general direction.
Again, we took a poor line off Blea Moor but found our way down to the better path and wound our way down to the road which took us to Stonehouses.

It was clouding up now with the odd spot of rain. At Stonehouses, I forced some pasta into my reeling tummy. We put our rain coats on. I declared that while I wasn't giving up, I didn't have much running left in me and would probably walk most of the rest. Alan agreed this was fine with him and we stuck together. My feet were sore (the plantar fasciitis is still there) my legs were knackered and I still felt sick and was struggling to eat.

Anyway, pointless climb up to Great Knoutberry and back complete, followed by a relativly easy moor crossing to drop down to Redshaw. I only managed some soup here while Alan had a hotdog!
Up until now, I had been navigating from memory, but this is as far as I had got previously so I got my map out ready for the next section.

As soon as we left the checkpoint, I regretted not putting on another layer. The wind was getting up and the spots of rain were more persistent. It was easy going from though from here to the next checkpoint and then on to the Cam Road. After this though, the fog started to drop and it was getting cold. We turned on to the Pennine Way for a short while, another runner joined us for a little bit here. We counted wall ends, and at the fourth wall we needed to take a bearing across open ground to the next checkpoint. The runner in green said we had gone too far, another lady appeared out of the gloom and said we hadn't gone far enough. I stuck to my guns and we took a bearing straight up the boggy hillside into the fog and pouring rain. After only a short while, but intense climb, a shape loomed out of the clag - checkpoint! I was so chuffed as it's been ages since I worked off a bearing like that, especially in those conditions. Then it got suddenly got properly dark.
We attempted another bearing, but the ground was getting dangerously steep and we realised we had to contour around to find a better descent. While contouring, the lady from earlier emerged from above, moving in a very confident fashion so we followed her, having to move quite quickly over very rough terrain to keep up. Eventually, we reached a wall and then at last the road. We picked up another disorientated runner and 5 of us trotted into the big tent checkpoint at Fleetmoss.

It was now freezing cold, windy, thick fog and raining. I was shivering so much I had to hide it from the marshalls. Lots of people were dropping out. We had tea, biscuits and bean stew. I put on two more layers and a proper hat on top of my buff and fresh gloves. Re-arranged my maps. Alan was busy eating everything in sight, I still felt sick. He didn't look too chipper really, I asked if was ok to go on and I just got a little nod. I think if either of us had mentioned pulling out, the other would have followed suit without hesitation. It wasn't until I looked at the splits later did I realise how long we had spent here.

After saying 'Right' in an enthusiastic fashion several dozen times, we finally got ourselves organised to leave. At this point, the disorientated runner, Alan#2, asked if he could tag along with us as his running buddy had dropped out and he didn't fancy his chances on his own. We said that was fine.

The next section was a long descent on road to avoid the now out of bounds area of Fleetmoss. It was a bit dull, but we made good progress on tarmac and we warmed up a little as we lost elevation. Onto a very pleasant path along the Dales Way to Yockenthwaite at midnight. We got to a selfclip-checkpoint only to find the clipper not working. FFS. We spent far too long messing about with that, trying to make enough of a mark on our tally to prove we had been there. Eventually, I had a brain wave and just took some photo's of the dam thing! Brain fail. We carried on up a steep climb, back onto the boggy, foggy, cold windy, wet moor to try and find the checkpoint at Middle Tongue. We came across some runners coming from a random direction, who declared the check point was gone. This seemed highly unlikely and we continued hunting round in circles in the mire until we saw a red beacon flashing away in the dark. We yelled to the other runners we'd found the CP (probably saving them from a DQ) and got checked in. The marshal knew about the broken clipper and double clipped our tallies. Now for the bit I was dreading, crossing the wide open featureless area between this CP and the next at Hells Gap. My bearing didn't work so well here, and the ground was just awful. I wanted to go lower, both Alan's said higher. A combination of the GPX on Alan#1 phone and my compass got us (eventually) to the northern fence boundary and we then followed that for what felt like weeks up and down hags, jumping bogs, falling over etc until at last we reached the moor boundary itself and tipped out onto a nice wide track. Thank goodness. There was a CP a little way down and we got clipped in. Easy fast hike down to the road and another, bigger checkpoint. It was actually warm in here! There were people asleep on the floor wrapped in blankets. I forced down some soup, could have quite happily thrown it up, but managed not too. My final layer, my down jacket went on. Gloves had been toasted on the heater, so although they weren't dry they were warm for a little while. We just had two climbs left. We knew that the first Buckden Pike was very familiar and this was a big mental thing, back on familiar ground. Also, it meant we had broken the back of the thing and were looking towards the finish. Still, the short section from the CP to the main path was an unknown area and again, we didn't take the best route. It was a slow trudge on rough grass (I am sick of fucking tussocks!) before we reached the gravel path. Even though I have been here a dozen times, it looked strange in the dark. I led the way, my still churning stomach dictating the pace, until at about 5:30am with a tiny bit of light in the sky, we reached the wind swept summit of Buckden Pike. We gave the marshal a hearty "Good Morning!" and he clipped us in.

This is the first time I have run right through the night, we didn't get a sunrise as such, it just got a little less shit, but it still lifted our spirits no end! Now on familiar territory, heading towards home and soon we could turn our headtorches off, I took off at a speedy shuffle across the flags and onto the boggy path above Starbotton. We almost missed the turning in our haste, but didn't go too far, and contoured along a section we had recently reccied. It was still cold, wet and windy and foggy all at once but it was good knowing where we were. A good track; a pleasant run on fresh legs; took us down from the moor to the last 'big' CP. Alan#1 had a 20 second micro snooze while we had hot chocolate with bread and jam. Pretty much the first thing not to make me feel sick. My tummy now had woken up and I was worried about needing the bathroom. Bad, urgent, cramps came and went.

The final climb now stood before us. Alan#2 watch and phone had both died, I said it was ok as I had been this way loads and knew the route. Then promptly lead us to a dead end path. FFS. Cut across country and found the path. A stiff climb into the gloom ensued, I was worried I had gone wrong again as it just looked so different in the fog, until at last a large outcrop of rocks loomed out of the clag and I knew we were in the right place. The top was very wet underfoot and we pressed on until we could see the dark shape of a small tent right near the trig point on Great Whernside.

It is literally all downhill from here.

Another fast shuffle ensued, I knew there was a feint trod here and we found it. The downhill portion wasn't so clear and in the still thick fog we decided to stick to the fence line rather than cut the corner (on the day I reccied this section, it was bright and clear and quite dry underfoot so you could see your destination over in the distance making it fairly safe to cut across the open bog. Today, we cold barely see our own feet.) We over took two slower runners, carefully picking their way down, and in turn a solo runner bounded past us at speed. at last though, we reached the wall marking the boundary between moor and pasture and turned left along a good path. Another little tent in the gloom appeared and we got clipped in although the marshalls had obviously had a long night and were struggling to count to three...

We followed the wall still on another feint trod, down down onto a hard-packed track. Again, it looked so different to when I reccied it, we had to stop and check Alan#1 GPX a couple of times, but it all went ok. We wound our way to a green lane with the aid of some beacons and flags.

The green lane went on FOREVER. Legs completely mushed. Still slightly queasy with the occasional wave of gut cramps thrown in for good measure. We kept a slow but steady pace going.

Eventually, we reached the road and the very last CP. We decided to turn down the offer of tea and biscuits and press on for home. Just two miles to go.

As I have been streaking and most of the day's pace was very slow indeed, I had decided to try and run a mile here to make sure it counted for the streak. Both Alan's were up for this and we forced our legs into a slightly faster shuffle. It was possibly the longest mile of my life, besides the ones I did while ill with Covid-19.

Slightly annoying, but not all together surprising, Alan#2 carried on running after the mile was done and ended up beating us by several minutes. To be honest, he would have been faster without us, but completely lost as he lacked the navigational skills and seemed inexperienced in bog-crossings. I could get annoyed about it, but were the situation reversed, I hope someone would look after me.

After 26 hours and 38 minutes, Alan#1 and I crossed the threshold into the school and could finally call it done. Trudy was waiting for us along with her husband and Alan's wife who had come to take us home.

We had some food, finally I could eat! Yeah, thanks body, would have been more helpful 24 hours ago. Got showered and into clean dry warm clothes. Trudy's husband kindly dismantled our tents and gear while we did that and at last we could go home, job done.

Trudy had a good run to come in 80th in 20 hours 48 mins.

Alan and I were joint 126th in 26 hours 38 mins.

All my friends, including Flanker, that I had seen at the start had finished which I am really happy about. One even coming away with third Lady.

I had hoped for closer (even sub) 24 hours. While out on the course as I looked at my watch and saw that finish time slip away, I felt disappointed, but actually, I'm very pleased with what we achieved on a very rough night. Out of 204 on the start line, only 135 finished.

And, most importantly, I never ever have to do this again.

Foss Walk Adventure

 A while back, on a run with B through Oulston we spotted a finger post pointing the way along the Foss Walk. It had a cute little frog on it.

Later that same day, while scrolling through Strava I saw that one of my other running friends had been in Oulston that same day running the Foss Walk! It was like fate...

A little research told me that the Foss Walk was a 28 mile route following the River Foss (funnily enough) from York to Easngwold. Ideal for a mini-adventure. I put it to the gang and we started planning.

Unfortunately, despite it being a recognised route, there was no map or route description available, however there was a GPX downloadable from the LDWA website so A downloaded that to his phone for navigation and we were away.

LDWA: Foss Walk

The day we picked was Saturday 8th May and it soon rolled around. The forecast was pretty rubbish, but it's often wrong, right?

It was clear when we got on the train in Thirsk, drizzle on the way to York and chucking it down by the time we were rounding the city walls on our way to the river side start point.

Rather wet on the city walls at York!

Start line selfie - B, Me, T, R and A

I can't really tell you much about the actual route as I didn't know where we were 99% of the time! We followed the river side footpaths, through houses and pasture. We saw a kingfisher, a heron and lots of cattle. We passed under the York Ring road after a few miles.

York Ring Road

The rain just continued the whole time, varying in intensity but never actually stopping. It was also rather cold and occasionally the wind would whip up and chill us in our wet gear, quite miserable at times if I'm honest.

Keeping our spirits up! No idea where this was...

We had been promised cake at 28km (17.5 miles) and B had pre-arranged for his wife to collect him here. As the cake shop seemed further and further away, we began to wonder if it was real... At last though, 19 miles in, we turned off the route and down the road towards Stillington at the Pop-up Cafe at The Mill. Hurrah! Here we found tea/coffee and cake a plenty. We hogged the log burner for the best part of an hour, warming our bones and drying our gear while we ate lots of cake. They also brought out Flannigan the puppy for us to fuss, which he seemed quite happy about. As tempting as it was to stay here, we had to carry on as this was R's first ultra - but of course she needed to complete! Eventually, it time to push on, on legs that had seized up! Shuffle!

Pop up Cafe at Stillington

The rain eased a little in time, and we shed the extra layers we had put on at the cafe. We had a tangle with some horses this time instead of cows, flighty things. Eventually the rain stopped altogether and we were suddenly too warm in our rain coats! As the weather had improved, so had our spirits and we were noticeably more chatty than we had been in the freezing cold rain earlier in the day.

Smiling at Oulston Res.

Easingwold seemed even further away than the cafe, we couldn't even see houses in the distance. We rounded Millfield Park on the outskirts of the small town, we had long crossed the 28 mile mark. At last, the green lane we were on entered the town and we found the main market place! Hurrah!

Foss Walk completed! A, Me, T and R at Easingwold.

End of the route

We had rung ahead for our lifts and they were waiting just round the corner, we wasted no time jumping into nice warm cars and heading home for hot drinks and baths.

30 miles complete, in 6 hours 51 mins (not including time at the cafe) R had completed her first ultra and I had a sub-6 hour marathon.

Overall, very pleased with how it went. Navigating from the GPX on A's phone worked fine, the frog signs were better in some places than others. The route is almost totally flat - only 1000ft of climb over the whole 30 miles and all of that in the last 5 miles or so. No new injuries and no real mood slumps apart from being fed up of being cold and wet. I ate more than I would normally manage, cheese and onion pastry roll things from Tesco worked well and the mid-run tea and cake definitely helped. What did I learn? Cheap dry bags are no match for 5 hours of heavy rain! I should have used the better ones AND put ALL my stuff in them.

The route from FetchEveryone - mucho squisho

Another Year Complete

 The pandemic continues and so does my streak! Two full years (and a few days as I am behind on posting.)

Just making a post really to see if photo uploading has improved at all, is this a viable platform etc?

Hmm, it does work all be it slowly.

These pics are from yesterday's walk from Hutton-le-Hole.

Route map from FetchEveryone.

In running news, yes, 2 full years done, 500 mile for the year so far. Many more to come I hope!

Montane (Virtual) Lakeland 100

Sunday 19th July.

Three weeks ago, driven by peer pressure, FOMO and half a bottle of rose I had signed up to another ridiculous adventure - the virtual Montane Lakeland 100. I had spent the time since fretting and planning, but mostly fretting! Trying to work out how on earth I was going to fit 105 miles of running/walking around a 40 hour working week, finding routes I could run from home that were easy enough for when I was tired but not so easy I'd be bored. I came up with a plan to do 12 miles per day Monday to Friday then have a big back-to-back high mileage weekend. Now I was having an early night, with all my work clothes laid for the week and next to those all my running clothes and the first two days worth of pack up made ready. I was dreading the week to come and cursing myself for being so impulsive! The real Lakeland 100 wasn't even on my 'races to do' list so I'm not sure how I got drawn in...

Monday 20th July.

The day started early with a walk before breakfast. The dog joined me for part of it until she realised there would be no time for scent marking and sniffing! Only a short distance covered but it got the ball rolling in my mind.

After work, and a snack, I put my first set of running clothes on and headed out into a beautiful sunny evening. I ran along footpaths and country roads taking in the villages of Kirby Knowle and Boltby, I met some gorgeous cattle outside Boltby before climbing over the Mount St John and finally enjoying the long gentle downhill all the way home.

Day 1 and a total of 13 miles covered. I felt pretty good, but was only 1 day in...

Tuesday 21st July.

Double run day! Another beautiful morning and on half a jam sandwich I set off to run the 5 mile route I call Gold Lane Loop. I felt good and the run was smooth.

A busy day at work ensued and I was glad of being organised as I headed over to Kilburn to join some Harriers for a social run. I got there early and David T joined me for a couple of warm up miles before joining the main group for a guided tour of the proposed Mountain Masters route. I still needed another mile so headed back in to the woods as everyone else set off home.

Day 2 and another 13 miles under my belt, everything still works so that is a bonus!

Wednesday 22nd July.

Third early start in a row, not my bag normally. Just took the dog for a relaxed walk before heading to work.

That evening, Gavin joined me for a (relatively) pacey run around Bagby and Thirkleby. The route was mostly flat on good farm tracks, but I had not been this way for some time and had to consult the map a few times. It went well until we hit a field of oil seed and the path disappeared under the crop. That was annoying on tiring legs near the end of a long run, but we made our way around and got home in one piece.

Day 3 and again 13 miles down to stay just a touch ahead of target. My appetite was now being affected, I struggled to eat my dinner when all I wanted to do was go to bed.

Thursday 23rd July.

Despite being so tired, I had a lousy sleep and another early start! I took a power walk to Felixkirk and back, managing to cover 3.5miles in under an hour.

Just about stayed awake at work, so tired, more mentally than physically as my legs still felt pretty good.

I left work and went straight to Osmotherly, once again arriving early to do a lap of the reservoir before joining the social run. I let them all run ahead, I was slow and didn't want to spoil thier run. It's a route I enjoy so I just trotted along on my own without any problem (other than nearly getting stuck in a squeeze stile!!)

Despite my lack of speed, I made it back to the village in plenty of time to get fish and chips. My appetite still off but they were very good and I ate most of them before taking a gentle stroll back to the car.

Day 4 and I was now over 50 miles for the week.

Friday 24th July.

Tired was not the word. I'd decided last night to re-set my alarm to allow just enough time for breakfast and had a mini-lie in instead of walking or running anywhere. It was the right decision and I felt much more awake at work.

Later though, I ran down from home to Sowerby and around Thirsk. I'd done 5.5 miles in an hour and was feeling ok, but it was short lived and by mile 7 I'd had enough. I worked out that if I ran home from that point, I would have still done 10 miles which was enough (as I was a little ahead). So that is what I did.

My appetite a little better, I also inhaled a take-away pizza!

Day 5 another 10 miles brings the total to almost 62.

Saturday 25th July.

First long run day of the weekend. I had arranged to meet Alan S at Sutton Bank at a civilised time and we set off on a very simple out and back route to Black Hambleton. It had to be simple as my brain was no longer functioning! The weather was mostly fine, apart from the fact it poured down on the summit of Black Hambleton! We made good time on the route, averaging 12 min/miles which I was very happy with, given I'd already done over 60 miles for the week. We had a tea stop at High Paradise and the hot drink was most welcome. We pressed on, I was getting tired now but walk breaks were still fairly minimal, then had another refreshment stop at the cafe at Sutton Bank visitor centre. We'd done almost 18 miles by now (my target for the day was 25) but weren't finished yet! We dropped down the bank, passed Gormire Lake and 'dropped' Alan at home. I carried on, just walking now, towards home. As I walked, I ran the maths in my head and realised I'd only need another 2 miles to make my target, so once I got home I deposited my pack and collected the dog and my partner and we did those last two miles round the fields at home.

A long day, 25 miles done and now things are hurting but I am still mobile.

Sunday 26th July.

The last day! Another fairly civilised start. This was the one day I hadn't planned in advance. Gavin met me again and took me around town! We went to visit the Buddha then on to Sandhutton and Carlton Miniott taking in paths I've not really been down before. I felt good for about the first 8 miles, then started flagging. Taking on sweets and a banana helped but I was running out of energy. My legs hurt, but that is to be expected and I could ignore that, just didn't have the energy to lift them! At about 14 miles we decided to re-route back towards the town centre and get some refreshment from Greggs! We'd reached 16 miles by this point and I'd run out of 'run'. I also knew that if I just took a slight diversion on my way home, I could reach my target of 19 miles for the day. Gavin and I parted company and shuffled back to our respective abodes. My watch clicked over the 19 mile mark shortly before I reached my house and I arrived home - triumphant.

Day 7 and 105 miles complete! In fact, 106 as I wanted to be sure I wasn't short.

As ever at the end of an ultra or multi day event, there's no party just a quiet satisfaction. Physically, my body held up pretty well - legs are stiff and sore but that is obvious, but I am not broken at all. I think this is due to pacing myself well from the start and of course being able to spread the miles out over the week. Appetite and sleep have been very messed up which led to a greatly reduced energy level which has been more of an issue than any physical pain. Not sure how to work around this, but I'll keep practicing.

A race recce and lessons learnt

What an adventure the social run turned out to be! Mostly for the wrong reasons...
The plan was to recce the route of the Hardmoors Osmotherly 10km in preperation for the race in Feb. I opened the invite to club members and 12 hardy Harriers gathered in Osmotherly Sunday morning as planned, despite the terrible weather forecast.
The route leaves the village on road, but soon turns onto track as it heads into Oakdale. Past the first reservoir then a sharp left up behind the farmstead and a short climb onto rough pasture.
The rain was icy and was whipping in sideways on the high winds. We forged on along the track, crossing a minor road and onto another track which runs high above the Cod Beck reservoir.
The wind was (thankfully) mostly behind us, it was strong enough to carry us along and was now bringing in horizontal sleet and snow.
Young Ryan and Gavin turned back, taking a more sheltered route down to the reservoir and back to the village. We carried on. I was running towards the back to keep Phillip on track and the faster runners were pulling further and further ahead.
We regrouped in the shelter of the Sheep Wash at the northern end of the reservoir. I said if anyone was piss wet through and too cold, to turn back along the road. The distance would be about the same, but the route far more sheltered from the wind and rain. No-body wanted to turn back. I was pleased as wanted to run the full route.
So, another short road section, being blown along by the wind, then another climb onto Scarth Nick Moor. The wind as we turned the corner almost took me off my feet! I waited for Phillip so he didn't get lost and we crossed the moor, being buffeted continually by the wind all the way. 'We'll be sheltered when we reach the trees' I yelled over the gale.
I was wrong.
It was wet in the woods, and there wasn't much shelter given by the low wall and spindly trees.
At last we hit Beacon Hill, I left Phillip and took off downhill, splashing through the liquid mud and puddles and generally enjoying myself!
The faster runners were already heading back to the cars, so I threw my keys at Nikki then waited for Phillip once more. The last mile is across a muddy field, then down the hill into the village.

People were cold and wet enough to abandon the idea of going for cake. I on the other hand was warm and dry inside my termals and waterproofs and could have gone round again!
I got changed and into the car. Nikki looked really miserable, and broke into tears a few times on the way home. She'd cycled to the meeting point in town, but I was going to take her straight home. Then, just a few minutes away from home, she started passing out and shaking uncontrollably, obviously hypothermia  Ah.
Turned around and back to Northallerton and the A+E department, Becky rung Nikki's husband Steve and Julie wrapped her up in all the spare clothing we had. Once at the hospital, after an initial frosty reception, they got Nikki in a nice warm room and onto warm drip and air. Steve arrived and we handed over to him, with strict instructions to let us know when they were out.
(I'm pleased to say Nikki was at training on Monday looking quite chipper)

Since then, all sorts of 'what ifs?' and 'could haves' have gone through my mind. I'm in no doubt we did exactly the right thing, and the girls in my car all worked together in a wonderful calm fashion, I'm very proud of them.
But even so-
Should I have just cancelled the run given the weather forecast?
Should I have taken control at the Sheepwash and turned us around out of the wind and wet sooner?
Should we have gone for a cuppa after all, but then there's the possibility it was already too late and we would have involved the cafe staff and an ambulance?
If we'd had a flask of hot drink in the car, would it have helped?
What if we'd got her home, then she passed out? We didn't know if Steve was actually at home at the time.

What I found a little scary, is how quickly she went from being cold and miserable, to being in danger.
Speaking to another member of the group, David, he said he was struggling with cold, but he was by himself and driving. There's a lot to be said for car sharing!
It's reinforced in me the need for correct kit selection (like I said, I was warm and dry) but also, to be better prepared for emergencies. A space bag and a hot drink would have been very useful. Thankfully we were in the car and out of the weather when things turned bad, but if we'd been out on the moor still, it could have been a lot worse.
I have (very basic) first aid training, and I was confident that I knew what to do, but there's no harm in taking it to the next level. I've pondered before about taking the Summer Mountain Leadership Course, I wonder if there is something similar for runners.

Anyway, this has become a long winded rambling post about what could have happened, and didn't, and I don't even have any pictures to share, so I'm signing off!

Here is a link to a very good article on Hypothermia, how to spot it and what to do - Hypothermia in Fell Runners

The future's bright, the future's long.

I wrote in my Fetch blog yesterday that I was excited about what was to come.

Just what did I mean? As you know, I want to go long distance (when my head is playing ball that is) I mean beyond 26.2.
The run at Goathland told me I'm getting there. I think 2014 will be spent consolidating the 20-30 mile races before tackling something bigger in 2015. I'm very taken with the whole Hardmoors set up, really enjoyed the 3 events I've done so far (despite the fact that HM30 left me injured and Saltburn Half caused me to blow-up) so I think the next step-up will probably be the HM55. I don't want it to be too easy...

There is still a lot of work to do, but I feel if I keep on keeping on I'll get there in time. 

I like doing the longer stuff. I love that people can't comprehend what I do. My non-running friends think I'm crackers, even my running friends ask me all sorts of odd questions! What do you think about? How do you run for 6 hours? And my favourite I got asked last night, with reference to Goathland - 'Did you cry? I think I would have done.' Bless her.
I love telling people about crazy vertical climbs, rocky paths, running in the dark, the snow, ice-covered routes (although admittedly I'm not keen on the ice myself), falling over in puddles and why lemonade with salt in it tastes soooo good!!!

You can keep your Rat Race type adventure races, the real adventure's out there man!!

Goatmoors Trail Marathon

The day of the big M dawned, and as usual I was too nervous to eat my breakfast before the hours drive to Goathland. I got signed in, then met a few people, finally meeting Darren from the We Love a Challenge group on Facebook and had a quick natter with Ray and Flip. We all had a good chuckle at the marathon route sweeper who was dressed as Death, complete with robes and a scythe...

The weather was cold but sunny as we gathered on the start, and soon enough we were off! The gentle downhill start was just to lull us into a false sense of security I'm sure!! The first mile or two were sublime. Narrow, rocky path alongside the playful West Beck led us directly below the Mallyan Spout Waterfall, I thought to myself as we crossed several little bridges back and forth over the water that I will have to come back here with OH and doglett... 
There were plenty of muddy steps thrown in, well of course, this is one of Jon's route, there's always steps! At least this way we got them out of the way early on. 
Now we climbed up onto the moor, there was to be lots of moor. But the going was good underfoot, and I ran behind Shirley for a while before overtaking her before the first check point. Here the half marathon runners turned off to cross the river on stepping stones, us full marathoners and the 10km guys instead turned uphill for a stiff climb to Simon Howe. Here some cheery marshals were directing 10km runners back home and us marathoners out along the rigg, we had a long way to go yet! 
The field was beginning to spread out a little now, but there were plenty of runners close by both ahead and behind. We entered Cropton Forest. I stopped for a drink at the checkpoint here, about 8 miles in now I think. We travelled on good tracks in the forest and I soon recognised where I was from the Levisham Saltergate fixture in the Esk Valley series. My left knee was starting to twinge and I took the steep descent very carefully. We crossed the railway line at Needle Eye before entering the wood again, gosh it was dark in here! Up the steep grass bank and along the cliff edge, being careful not to look down, then a long undulating grass track all the way along Levisham Bottoms, almost to Levisham itself. By the next checkpoint, my knee was really hurting. Not good at just about 12 miles into a marathon. Another girl was also having knee problems, she's taken a tumble and both knees were bleeding badly. A competitor who was also a nurse had a little look, but they seemed to be starting to scab up and she was determined to carry on! A few people caught up with me here, including Shirley, they went on ahead as I was busy faffing about refilling my water. I ran alone across Levisham Moor to the next check point, just after crossing the A169, my knee was forcing occasional walk breaks now which was very frustrating as I felt fine otherwise. At the checkpoint, Tim Taylor caught up with me and said 'Come on Fran, we'll run together!' We ran/walked together for a couple of miles. He was happy to walk a while but I hope I didn't slow him down too much. He ran on as we got closer to Fylingdales (I miss the golfballs) and I couldn't keep up. My knee was very sore, I managed the odd jog but was mostly walking. The route was now on a boring track that felt like it was going on forever and I had a little mardy with myself. At least the track was easy to walk on I suppose, if I'd been running I would have got off it sooner! I spotted a lonely figure dressed in Hi-vis and it was a marshal who took my number and pointed me onto open moor once more. The track was more interesting now, but still painful! I still managed the odd jog where it wasn't to tricky underfoot. There were a few boggy patches here and there but nothing too bad. I felt aware time must be getting on and I wanted to get finished in daylight, so I kept pushing the knee into a jog for as long as I could before having another walk break. 
At one point the route crossed a stream, it was too wide to jump cleanly and I could see where everyone else had slithered down the bank, I got a muddy foot and a thistled hand but didn't fall in! The stream was crossed again, this time by a metal sheet, hmm.
Now I could see cars on the A169 ahead, I could still see Tim too in his day-glo orange top. I knew once I crossed that road again I'd just about cracked it! Pressed on down the hill to the road crossing check point, stopped for a cup of pop and a caramel shortbread thingy before pressing on, I knew there were other runners closing in behind. Across the road, over a stream on some flooded steps, over the railway line once more and up a steep bank to get back onto the moor. It was a gentle gradient and after a while I thought, that's the cairn from earlier in the race. Indeed it was Simon Howe, the two marshals looking slightly more windswept than before, but they managed a bit of banter and pointed me towards home. 'Three miles and it's all downhill' they told me. I've learnt not to trust marshals when they say things like that, but for once they were right! There was another runner in view ahead, also employing a run/walk strategy but I never managed to catch him. My pained periods of running were actually getting longer, I wanted to get finished now, I wanted to finish in daylight, I could see my shadow getting taller. 
Annoyingly, in those last three miles, after having seen no-one apart from Tim for the best part of 10 miles, I was now over taken by no less than 9 other runners. They did however say well done and check I was ok.
The last group overtook with Goathland village in sight, in fact the 'leader' of the little group had a brief chat and I managed to run with them down the last grassy hill into the village, the hall was just around the corner now and the other runners really picked up the pace. To hell with my stupid knee, come on and I pushed hard to keep up, blowing like a train, we crossed the grass into the hall and Annabomb was there to record our times. 
For a brief time I was a little annoyed that the final push never made my knee any worse, could I have run more those last few miles? Then I thought no, 'cos at the time it bloody hurt! The last thing I wanted was to push it too far then have a long hobble home in the dark and be last. So I cheered myself up with the fact I'd actually beaten my target time (official results aren't out yet) but I got round in about 6hrs and 40mins, even with an uncooperative knee. I saw Flip in, then got some warm clothes on and had some tea, pasta and cake. Hung around for a bit chatting before getting in my car to come home. 

So a little disappointed at the walking bit, but over all I think it was a job well done! And really, I must be getting stronger as I was tired and sore but I was 'OK' at the finish.

Other things of note - Shirley mentioned above completed her 100th Marathon today, and she got her 100 Marathon Club vest and whatnot after the race. Also, a chap called David completed his 1000th Hardmoors mile to be the first person to enter the Hardmoors 1000 mile club, for this he gets a trophy and fleece. (I think I have another 927 miles to go...) 
So well done to both of them! 

Incidentaly, the knee thing is from when I twisted it many moons ago coming off a mountain in Wales. Just slipped on a wet rock. When it starts to hurt it's right in the joint, like it's going to pop apart. What was so annoying is that is hasn't bothered me in ages, not on any of my long training runs nor in any recent races. It just started. And 8 miles into a 26+ mile race is not very helpful at all!

It's the wrong legs, Gromit!

Wrong legs indeed, don't know what I've done with my fit ones...
After a fairly leisurely weekend, I thought I may be well rested for this weeks long-ish run. I was running from home today and had the choice of a hilly route or a flat one. I took the flat one and it was quickly obvious that was the right choice!
From the outset, my legs were tired, very tired. I had the route in mind, but hadn't measured it. There were options to shorten it along the way, but I thought I'd see how I felt.
A couple of miles in, everything had loosened up and I was bombing along! Didn't last long mind and every stride was an effort. Too many walk breaks and too many excuses to stop for some reason or another.
I did consider chopping off a loop, but decided I wanted time on feet so did the full route.
I find it slightly ironic that if I run into town, I can get in more off-road stuff than if I run the other way, towards the moor. (I live just 5-6 miles from the boundary of the North York Moors)
So, I struggled and shuffled on. The last 3 miles or so took a very long time and it started to rain as well. I got home just as the heavens opened!

When I measured my route it was over 13miles so that was ok.

I used my S!CAPS today, no idea if it made any difference or not as I don't think I was working hard enough to induce cramp... I ate all my sweets and my cheese biscuits too. I was thinking as running, I have a couple of gels I've acquired from various places (not tried one yet, don't really fancy them) and when I read the packet it says to consume one every 20 mins or so! Surely not? I shall continue experimenting with eating 'real food' while running thank you very much.

I think part of todays leg tiredness was due to last weeks mileage, but also a lot to do with not having eaten properly yesterday. Weekends just seem to mess me up!

Also, another question, related to running nutrition, is it better to 'front load' or replace the calories afterwards? Todays run burnt over 1500 extra cals and there's no way I can eat that much extra after a long run. I'm talking straight calories here, not what kind of food do you eat. So many things to tinker with!

Cackleberry's Blog, Supplemental.

Yeah, been watching to much Star Trek...

I have made the decision to try taking some supplemements, I already take cod liver oil and Glucosamine, but I've added in iron and vitB12. I do all the healthy eating, exercise (dhur) and drinking plenty of fluids but rarely feel full of energy. So, I thought I'd give them a whirl. I just wondered how long before I notice a difference? I've been taking them a full week and as yet don't feel overflowing with vim and vigour. Maybe it just doesn't work like that? I'd like to hear if any of you have had experience with such things.

On a similar note, I have also got hold of some S!CAPS electrolyte replacement capsules in an attempt to stop me throwing up on long runs. I've tried eating real food as I didn't want to take supplements for running, but I just can't physically eat enough to stop it.

S!CAPS

I don't like the idea of taking any of the above supplements by the way, I'm a big advocate of being all natural. But, I know I don't get enough iron in my daily diet (liver and kale anyone?) and B12 goes hand in hand with that. And bonking on a long run is just dammed unpleasant. I'm also happy to wait and give the B12 time to work, just don't want to give up too early if you know what I mean!

Anyway, a medium run is calling and it's raining. nice.

A Good Week Really

The week has gone well, so far at least!

Last Saturday I managed for possibly the first time ever to get up and run BEFORE work! I knew I wasn't going to have time after for various reasons, so pre-breakfast it was. It felt stiff and clumpy, but the early morning sun and mist over the fields made it better and I felt more awake for the rest of the day than I had done all week previously.

Sunday was no real exercise as we had step-daughter over.

Monday I had a long run planned, car repairs conspired to get in my way, but the garage couldn't fit me in til Tuesday so I had no more excuses! Rucked up and f*cked off to Osmotherly. From there, I followed the Cleveland Way along Rueberry Lane and over Beacon Hill onto Scarth Nick Moor, love it up there. Into Clain Wood and down the incline and through the trees. Then, over two fords in quick succession and along lanes to the farmstead of Scugdale. I knew there was a big climb to come in the form of Live Moor, but apart from the flagged path being quite slippery underfoot, it wasn't that bad. The moor top path climbs gradually all the way to the summit of Carlton Bank, before dropping sharply on more slippy flags and passing into the grounds of Lord Stones. The café and facilities here are being done up and they look like they'll be good!

Stone Circle at Lord Stones

I found the stone circle at Lord Stones, something I've never noticed before and did my Team We Love a Challenge burpees (don't ask) and had a munch on a cereal bar. It was cold and windy here.
I turned to retrace my steps. Steep climb back up Carlton Bank, pausing to chat to some American ladies (presumably on holiday) who thought my 15 mile run was quite amazing!

Twin trigs at the summit of Carlton Bank

Back to Scugdale was pretty much all downhill and quite relaxed. I stopped at one of the fords beyond the farmstead to wash sweaty arms and face and get the salt out of my eyes (stingy) then carried on back into the woods. The incline in Clain Wood was a beast and I made no attempt to run up it, walking was tiring enough! Another climb, the reverse of Scarth Nick Moor is quite taxing and I walked on and off here.

Birch trees at the top of Beacon Hill

The descent however was much better, although I was aware my legs were starting to get a little crampy. At the bottom of Beacon Hill was a patch of blackberries, so I paused for some in-run-nutrition and almost ate a ladybird- not to be recommended!! A handful of sweeties took the foul taste away and I carried on. Some hikers looked very displeased that I'd run through a field of cattle and they were all following me like the pied piper, as I ran on up the hill I could see them still dithering about what to do. At last, the final descent into Osmotherly. I gave the pub a miss as I had to drive home, settling instead on a pint of tea when I got back.

A pint of tea!

Tuesday was a rest day, but I got an hours walking in with the dog while the car was at the garage.

Wednesday is Harriers training. Usual night, 2 sets of circuits then outside for intervals, 4x 4mins tonight. All the people I normally run with were absent and it was odd running by myself.
After training, we had our club AGM. It was very civilised and all over in just half an hour! Being club Secretary, I'd spent weeks planning and organising, but I'm glad it went smoothly.

Thursday and it was time to run in the rain, wind, cold and dark with buddy HC. I ran down to her house first, then we go out along the local lanes before cutting back through town. Didn't seem to matter which way we turned, we always had a headwind! To make matters more 'interesting' I'd left my head torch at HC's house with my dry clothes, so we had one torch between two. Oh well, all makes for a good adventure! And of course we called in for a pint afterwards...

mmm refreshing Aspall in the Crown n Anchor

And so to Friday, today. After running about 30 miles with that ^^^ lot, I'm having a rest!

Long Overdue Catch up!

Well, it seems this place needs an overhaul and bringing up to speed!

Basically, still running and what not. Training for one of Jon Steele's Harmoors Marathons, from Goathland this time. That's in November, so not long really!

That was from Saltburn Half, where I crashed and burned, so lets hope I do better this time!

A Tale of Two Races.

Wednesday evening saw the latest instalment of the Esk Valley Summer Series, Whorlton Run starting from the little village of Swainby. It was a warm and muggy evening, so I was surprised to see just one other Harrier.
The race was started by a man with a shotgun! Eep!
The first mile or so was on flat tarmac (this one only just scrapes in as a fell race really) and I was bored already. For the first time in a race I thought about giving up. I'd always thought I enjoyed my races, just the training I was struggling with??
as we rounded a corner, we were faced with Clain Wood and the massive hill we needed to climb and I really thought, this is silly. Anyway, I pressed on. The climb was on good track and road I ran as much as I could but eventually it got too steep to run with any sort of conviction. Climb continued through trees then briefly back onto the road before turning straight uphill. And I mean straight up hill! No one was running this, the field closed right up. As I scrambled up the bank, clinging onto the fence for balance and grabbing handfuls of wet bilberry bushes with my map clenched between my teeth and sweat dripping off my nose (sorry Flip, 'glow' dripping off my nose) I realised I was having a whale of a time!!
At the top was Whorlton Moor and the ground levelled out and we could run once more. It was easy going here and I loped along at a fairly steady pace. I could see Flip up ahead, but then as the route turned sharply downhill I lost him to the heather!
We crossed the rough ground and entered the woods on good track. To my amazement, I passed about 4 people on the downhill section!! Normally it's the other way around and I got this odd giddy feeling, I was at the front of my pack. I ran on, working to keep them behind me. We crossed a stream and the road at Scugdale before skirting another wood. The track undualted and I passed more people as I was able to run the 'ups'. I almost caught up with Flip once more, but he was faster over the fields marked with molehills and rabbit holes.
The final straight was back on tarmac, and only one of the people I passed came to overtake me. The finish was up hill and outside the castle ruins at Whorlton so we had a quick guided tour from a local runner!!
Back to the pub for tea and medals!!

No rest for the wicked, or tired legs, back out on THursday for the HDSRL fixture hosted by Swaledale. Slightly more Harriers for this race, 11 in total, mostly women.
We didn't really warm up as the heavens opened!!
Thankfully, it stopped raining in time for the start but it remained sticky throughout the race.
There's not a lot I can say about it really. The course was mostly flat, one bit went along rough track which was almost flooeded in places, but I managed to keep my trainers dry!
Everyone moaned about the 'big hill' about 4.5 miles in. I ran it without hardly breaking pace (I'm a fell runner don't you know?)
However, I am pleased I didn't have to do a head-to-head sprint at the end as I don't think my poor fell battered legs would have managed it!
For what felt like an old lady shuffle, I managed 9 min/miles or there abouts.
The club and pub had laid on a good spread of sarnies and acres of cake!! I was famished and ate loads!

So, a good two days of running. When I feel like crap and am about to spit my dummy out, I must remember how I felt on Weds night when I was running strong and enjoying myself on rough terrain.
Also, my form is looking better on the HDSRL photo, especially as it was taken right at the end of the race.

Distances for Jan and Feb

Just a bunch of numbers for my own pleasure... these should get gradually more impressive as my training progresses. At least that's the theory.

January

Total mileage - 112.22

Miles run - 39.26

Miles walked - 72.96

Jan 1st - 6.2 miles (5 mile race, 1.2 walk)

Jan 2nd - 3.86 mile walk.

Jan 3rd - 8.53 mile walk.

Jan 4th - 4.4 miles (1.4 walk, 3 run- intervals at club)

Jan 5th - 1.4 mile walk.

Jan 6th - 1 mile walk. 

Jan 7th - 9.85 mile hike.

Jan 8th - 2.58 mile walk.

Jan 9th - 7.55 miles (4 run, 1.55 walk, 2 at club) plus 1/2 hr yoga, circuits at club.

Jan 10th - 4.8 mile walk.

Jan 11th - 3 miles (1 walk, 2 at club) Plus circuits at club.

Jan 12th - 2.26 mile walk (rest day!)

Jan 13th - 0.9 mile. arse.

Jan 14th - 4.06 mile run. 

Jan 15th - 4.37 mile walk.

Jan 16th - 5 miles. (3 walk, 2 at club) plus 1/2 hr yoga, circuits at club.

Jan 17th - 8.8 miles. (4 walk, 4.8 run) plus 1/2 hr yoga.

Jan 18th - 1 mile walk.

Jan 19th - naff all.

Jan 20th - 1/2 hr Just Dance

Jan 21st - naff all, again...

Jan 22nd - 1.54 miles.

Jan 23rd - 1.47 mile walk.

Jan 24th - 4 mile walk plus 1/2 hr yoga.

Jan 25th - 3.24 miles run, inc time trial. Plus circuits at club.

Jan 26th - 1.47 mile walk.

Jan 27th - 1.53 mile walk.

Jan 28th - 1.55 mile walk.

Jan 29th - 6.36 mile geocaching.

Jan 30th - 10.66 miles (7.16 run, 2 at club, 1.5 walk) plus 40 min yoga and circuits at club.

Jan 31st - 1.47 mile walk.

February 

Total milage - 124.2

Miles run - 70.70

Miles walked - 53.50

Feb 1st - 6.02 miles (4.02 walk, 2 at club) plus circuits.

Feb 2nd - buggar all, rest day.

Feb 3rd - buggar all...erm, another rest day apparently...

Feb 4th - 2.86 miles walk.

Feb 5th - 0.79 walk. FFS

Feb 6th - 11.05 miles (4.26 walk, 4.79 run, 2 at club) plus 1/2 hour yoga and circuits at club.

Feb 7th - 1.47 mile walk.

Feb 8th - 7.53 miles (1.47 walk, 4.06 run, 2 at club) plus circuits.

Feb 9th - 0.9 miles walk.

Feb 10th - 0.9 miles walk.

Feb 11th - 1.86 mile walk.

Feb 12th - 2.73 mile run. Stupid snow/ice.

Feb 13th - 8.47 miles (7 run, 1.47 walk) plus 3/4hr yoga.

Feb 14th - 1.55 mile walk. stupid work!

Feb 15th - 8.77 miles (1.47 walk, 4 run, 3.3 at club)

Feb 16th - 1.96 mile walk

Feb 17th - 2.96 mile run.

Feb 18th - 7.4 miles (4.82 run, 2.58 walk)

Feb 19th - 8.74 mile walk.

Feb 20th - 3.96 miles (1.96 walk, 2 at club) plus circuits

Feb 21st - 5.92 miles (4.06 run, 1.86 walk) plus 1/2hr yoga.

Feb 22nd - 2.58 miles walk.

Feb 23rd - nuffink.

Feb 24th - 5.53 miles. (4.06 run, 1.47 walk)

Feb 25th - 3.06 mile walk.

Feb 26th - 6.3 miles. (5.4 fell race, 0.9 walk)

Feb 27th - 5.31 miles. (1.55 walk, 2 at club, 1.76 run) plus circuits at club.

Feb 28th - 10.49 miles. (8.53 run, 1.96 walk)

Feb 29th bonus day! - 5.1 miles (1.86 walk, 1.23 run, 2.01 TT) plus 30 mins yoga.