tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29103495646476519712024-02-18T21:54:53.968-08:00Runner and his chimpBlabberings from a Northumbrian runner Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-83502900918409394952020-03-16T07:47:00.000-07:002020-03-16T07:47:07.924-07:00Brough Law fell race, 15th March 2020<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sunday 15th March 2020 brought high winds to the fells of the Breamish Valley. A tremendous turnout of 120 runners took on the Brough law fell race covering 5 miles and 1300ft of ascent. Marking out the course was a task in itself trying to ensure secure taping at strategic points. The start is an immediate leg burning and lung busting climb, spreading out the field from the off. Registration was like a well oiled machine with the help of Mike, Jane, Mike and Gary. We had Mr Wilson and Kevin out on the hills to direct runners where previously some have gone astray. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a close contest between the first two runners on the long descent to the finish. Chris Larkin of Newcastle University came through for the win with some impressive downhill running, closely followed by last year’s winner Callum Hanson from Pudsey and Bramley. Sean Leckey from Ambleside AC was third.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the women’s race, Gemma Bradley from Saltwell harriers was first, Molly Pace from Jesmond Joggers was second with Lauren Davies-Beckett from Newcastle University in third.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Category winners were: W40 Helen Heaney (NSP), W50 Katherine Davis (NFR), M40 Roger Sillito (NFR), M50 Gary Robson (NFR), M60 Ken Maynard (Sunderland Strollers), M70 James Tomlin.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many thanks to Jane and Michael Briggs, Mike Steven, Gary Mason, Kevin Bray and Mr Wilson for permission to use the course. Also thanks to Phil Green for sweeping. Over £600 was raised which will be split between Northumberland Mountain rescue and the Northern English Springer Spaniel rescue charity.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hope to see you again next year.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">JB </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">results below:</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=12vBQ6cF78nfs4k14nksgSRiIy828nhif" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">https://drive.google.com/open?id=12vBQ6cF78nfs4k14nksgSRiIy828nhif</span></a></div>
Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-64721680910935624652019-09-25T06:21:00.001-07:002019-09-25T06:21:34.465-07:00The Cumbria Way Ultra, 73 miles 10,000ft of ascent<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Cumbria Way starts in Ulverston and finishes in
Carlisle passing through the valleys of the Lake District National Park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I became interested in this event as it seemed
a low key and friendly day out on the trails through the glorious Cumbrian Mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was an event to enjoy and have a good day
out doing what I love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The weather was pretty much perfect with a southerly
tailwind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was wet underfoot from the
previous week’s downpours but it didn’t rain during the race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="background: white; color: #222222;">I
felt pretty relaxed leading up to it as I tried to remove all stress from it by
having the sole priority of finishing, no matter how long it took or what state
I’d be in at the end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made that clear
to friends and family, I usually stress out before a race as I’m sure lots of
others do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cut-off times were
generous so I was quite confident that if I paced it right then I would
complete it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I scribbled the distances
between checkpoints on my hand to mentally help to break down the overall
distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The race started at 6am and I
began at a nice and easy pace through the first section to Coniston (16 miles).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a really runnable part of the route,
so very easy to overcook it and get carried away.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It was a beautiful morning with a
great sunrise.</span><br />
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I reached the checkpoint
in good spirits, refilled my soft flasks and grabbed a few snacks to eat on the
go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sun was quite warm during the
next section from Coniston to Sticklebarn (11 miles) in the beautiful
Langdales.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made sure I kept drinking
and cooling down at the streams which were abundant after the amount of rain
during the week.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The next section to
Keswick (16.7miles) took us over Stakes Pass, a nice steady climb and technical
descent towards Borrowdale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then along
the shoreline of Derwentwater which is again, really runnable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I met up with my support crew (Emma and Tony Holt)
who were a welcome sight. I wasn’t sure where I was position-wise at this point
but I was feeling good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A quick change
of top and socks and I was off on the next section to Caldbeck(15 miles) up a
familiar route to Latrrigg (Bob Graham Round :o))<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another runner had latched onto me at this
stage and I didn’t really want to run with anyone else nor chat to them so I
was pleased when he ran ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There was a really boggy
section heading to High Pike which was a bit of a chore, or death march! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were four of us together on this climb,
once we summited I gained an advantage on the descent and I was on my own again
to the Caldbeck checkpoint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
volunteers filled my bottles and I was off again after a short rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From Caldbeck onwards the route was flat
going through farmers fields all the way to Carlisle (15 miles).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By this point I was run/walking, constantly
drinking and trying to eat what I could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The sun had set so I got my headtorch out for the last 5 miles or
so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I passed a few 30 mile racers with
3-4 miles to go and they told me I was third male.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This gave me quite a boost so cracked on
(after switching my headtorch off – tactics!) and pretty much ran the rest of
the way to Carlisle Castle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was glad
to see the finish line!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Overall, a
fantastic event with amazing support and volunteers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The course is really well marked and it would
be very hard to go wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want to
give an ultra a try, I would definitely recommend this one!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Thanks again to everyone who supported and the organisers. Particularly Emma and Tony, Gaynor and Amanda who gave me a lift to my car on the Sunday morning 😄</span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.pureoutdoorsevents.co.uk/index.php/the-cumbria-way-ultra">http://www.pureoutdoorsevents.co.uk/index.php/the-cumbria-way-ultra</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-75805427416607811472019-06-23T23:42:00.002-07:002019-06-25T05:39:37.731-07:00Bob Graham Round, 18th May 2019 00:01hrs<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leg 4…… Jonny: potatoes?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me: No thanks.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">An hour later…Jonny: Potatoes?</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me: No thanks.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another hour later….Jonny: Potatoes?</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me: Yes please.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jonny: Really? (the look of joy and happiness in Jonny’s face)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me: No. (the sudden disappointment, sorry Jonny!). </span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></span>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Over the years I’ve supported several Bob Graham Rounds, all of them successful and all of them I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of. I have been asked numerous times if I was going to attempt one. My answer has always been no, as I thought the challenge would be too great both physically, mentally and logistically. Having done some ultra trail races, this challenge seemed quite daunting because of the 27,000ft of climbing over the 66 miles. The distance wasn’t an issue, it was the relentless up and down. In truth, I wasn’t confident that I could do it. But there was still a part of me that really wanted to try!</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-c8ed1fa0-7fff-f70d-a936-aac034bf0359"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I was bimbling along in 2018 doing lots of road races, all short and fast. Although I was doing quite well and achieving “PB’s”, I wasn’t fulfilled. It became monotonous, aiming for an improvement of a few seconds here and there and putting in too many miles for such a small gain. What did it matter, I wasn’t achieving anything that would give me satisfaction. I was also carrying a groin problem which wouldn’t go away (over 12 months). I needed a challenge to aim for. I said to myself, if I aim to try a Bob Graham then I need to do it the right way. Train hard, recce the route, and become as conditioned as I could to give myself the best possible chance of succeeding.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a39a1445-7fff-2388-7b2f-42be19e226a2"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Six months prior to my attempt I radically changed my training and hooked up with Tony Holt (runningrevival.com). I set out my goals, number one was the Bob Graham round. He set me up with a specific training plan to stick to. I committed to the process. Very few people knew I was planning an attempt, and that’s how I wanted it to be. It’s a personal thing so I asked if it could be kept between the support crew.</span></span></span><br />
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-aa034d01-7fff-4823-449f-59ee0b53fa7b"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I drew up a list of people I wanted to be involved and went about recruiting their services. They were:</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Mike Steven (road crew)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Jane Briggs (road crew)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Rob Brooks and Michael Butters (leg 1)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Katherine Davis and Tony Holt (leg 2, Katherine also did leg 5)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Mark Clarkson and Lee Bennett (leg 3)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Jonny Malley and Andy Higgins (leg 4)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Emma Holt (leg 5)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Kevin Bray (broad stand)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tony and Emma also provided road support.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span id="docs-internal-guid-2e1e30c7-7fff-a197-3c93-f4d088666a51"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I was pleased the response was positive so the planning began. We had some good times on recce’s of legs 2 and 3. Not so good on leg 2 when Mr Clarkson decided to go back up Sticks pass for some extra mileage on the return to Threlkeld in the pouring rain…….with my car key! I’m sure his ears were burning. I took a look at Broad stand on the leg 3 recce and decided I’d give it a go if conditions were dry. Kevin Bray offered a rope on the day for which I am very grateful and it was reassuring that I had it as backup. Broad stand isn’t something to take lightly, especially if you aren’t a fan of heights. </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span id="docs-internal-guid-566821f9-7fff-5e76-fa71-96e82007750f"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were plenty training days in the Cheviots, some grim memories of the Cheviot Pendulum route with a 10kg backpack in the snow and wind with sleet sand blasting the legs. All good training though, eh?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span id="docs-internal-guid-559ec8c6-7fff-7dc6-7897-66eedf9e1739"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The attempt was drawing close. I had informed some close friends (and family of course) of my attempt if they wanted to follow my tracker, still keeping it low profile until after it was done. The week leading up to it I arranged my food, clothes etc so I wasn’t rushing around at the last minute, using up valuable energy.</span></span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-67a34611-7fff-9900-93fa-047a28525350"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On the day before the big day we arrived at Thornthwaite campsite early afternoon. The plan was to chill, stay off feet, eat and try and sleep. I certainly didn’t sleep. At around 11:15pm we set off for Moot Hall. Conditions were dry, breezy and cloudy. Midnight came, then the countdown began. We were off at a steady pace on a clockwise round. It was here, all the months of planning geared toward the next 24hrs. The climb up Skiddaw felt good. The visibility became very poor, so much so that headtorches weren’t beneficial. Rob has a hand torch which helped. We did miss the summit, however, so had to backtrack a little. The wind was quite strong at this point. We claimed the first peak and headed to Calva. I was feeling good, trying to enjoy the experience. We descended from Calva through the heather as it’s much more of a direct line to the river and Mungrisdale common. I had no idea of time and made it clear that I didn’t want to know whether I was up or down at any point. It’s a slog up to Blencathra, more so when you can’t see anything, but we finally reached the top and descended Doddick. We arrived at the cricket ground at Threlkeld where I was greeted with a coffee and some cold beans. A sock change later and we were off on leg 2, munching a rice pudding on the way.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span id="docs-internal-guid-2f759297-7fff-d14a-05b1-220ada977d5b"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The clag hadn’t lifted at all until Dollywagon. My mood was low up until that point and I wasn’t feeling too good after the food at Threlkeld followed by a big cimb up Calva. All of a sudden there was a break in the clouds. It was like a shot in the arm, my mood lifted and it gave me a massive boost. So much so, I was hammering it down Seat Sandal down to Dunmail. Lee and Mark were there ready and waiting. I ate some beef and veg stew and set off up Steel Fell. Shortly after I had my second bad patch. I was nauseous for about an hour and was struggling to eat or drink anything. I knew it would pass eventually so ploughed on, slowly. Emma and Tony met us at Esk Hause with the offer of coke etc but I couldn’t face it. Mark offered me some haribo jelly men, they were good! A tangy taste which seemed to help. Thanks Mark! We were nearing Broad stand when Mark sprinted ahead to assess the rope situation. By the time I got there, he was already up and the rope had been lowered. I tied it around my waist and started to climb up, knowing I was secure if anything happened. Before I knew it we were heading to the top. The descent on the scree was fun and we reached Wasdale to a cheer from the support crew.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span id="docs-internal-guid-4f6a3747-7fff-f0f8-1fc0-93f13cd95b93"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Top change, sock change, talc, some food and a coffee did the job. Another quick turnaround and off up Yewbarrow. There was some good, entertaining chat from these guys. I wasn’t eating much and Jonny had brought along some boiled potatoes. I couldn’t face any. Andy had small pieces of chorizo and cheese. They were delicious!!! A different taste to all the sweet stuff I had eaten was refreshing. Jonny was persistent with his potatoes. I felt bad for saying no each time. I eventually said yes, his face lit up with a beaming smile. Then I said I was only joking… he looked crushed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span id="docs-internal-guid-f83b77c0-7fff-2ab4-28b0-24b3f4b66b45"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leg 4 weather was great, really warm and sunny. It didn’t seem to last that long and soon it was over. We descended to Honister knowing there was only one leg to go. Almost there. Katherine and Emma joined me for the last leg. Three more peaks and a run along the road to Keswick. The three peaks ticked by nicely, stopping for a few photos on Robinson. As soon as we reached the bottom track before the road, I put on my road shoes. They felt amazing. I was off, probably too fast. After about two miles I was done. I had to walk/jog. A few of the others met us at Portinscale and I just couldn’t get going until the Main Street. Seeing the finish gave me the energy to run. I still didn’t know the time, I misread the clock on the hall as 19:40. Which I would have been amazed by. It was actually 19:11. Unbelievable. We had done it. I celebrated with a beer, only two sips though. It lasted me all night. We arranged to meet for breakfast the following morning. It was a nice way to say thanks to everyone for their support and time they put in to help. I will be forever in your debt!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span id="docs-internal-guid-7b8ee267-7fff-5175-bdfd-7f8c4b7f0203"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking back, I have great memories. Not only of the day, but of the journey getting there. I didn’t want the day to end, spending so much time in the hills with your friends makes such a difference. I couldn’t have asked for better support.</span></span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-d89bad05-7fff-6e53-0e5e-6f66d71cb809"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you everyone! You know who you are.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tony Holt's amazing film really gives you a feel for the experience <a href="https://youtu.be/C2LWgqdFSR8" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/C2LWgqdFSR8</a></span></div>
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<img height="417" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/MirroG72_lzIOq2OaGzoan3vqJOim30794J3zqDIwwRnOja5Ex5soMAtPSZMfVTZsMekAUKOggwXNVGzZD9HL89MvphAbKto0tcHhEjBb1II8bR88M5NJjMOmoGipm_w-WtQEmKY" style="border: none; font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;" width="624" /></div>
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Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-1270908709046689832019-03-11T00:57:00.003-07:002019-03-11T00:57:55.434-07:00Brough Law fell race 10th March 2019<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brough Law Fell race, 10th March 2019</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">145 hardy souls competed in the 2019 Brough Law fell race in the beautiful Breamish Valley. The weather forecast leading up to the race looked dreadful with wind, sleet and freezing temperatures. Fortunately the bad weather skipped the event, almost! Great to see so many familiar faces as well as first timers. This was a Northumberland fell runners, North East Counties and North East Masters championship race so it was highly competitive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Callum Hanson from Pudsey & Bramley won in a fast time of 37:08 closely followed by Matthew Briggs of Morpeth Harriers. Will Robson of North Shields Poly was third. In the ladies race, Robyn Bennett of Morpeth Harriers was first in 44:40, Molly Pace of Jesmond joggers was second and Fiona Brannen of Elvet Striders was third. First Mv40 was Roger Sillito of NFR, Mv50 was Lee Bennett of NFR, Mv60 was Les Turnbull of Norham, Mv70 was Steve Clough of Norham. Ladies vets winners were Wv40 Dawn Metcalfe of Derwent Valley, Wv50 Katherine Davis of NFR, Wv60 Bridget Peberdy of Alnwick.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Many thanks to Jane and Michael Briggs for their amazing support in preparation, registration and results. Also to Ross Wilson for his help and permission to use the course and to the Northumberland National Park. Approximately £450 was raised which will be donated to Northumberland Mountain rescue and the Northern English Springer Spaniel rescue charity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hope to see you again next year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">JB </span></div>
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Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-8033932470595536642019-02-28T02:27:00.001-08:002019-02-28T02:27:24.892-08:00Resurrection<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2018 was a canny year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I qualified as a level 3 mat Pilates instructor in May and began
teaching a class in July.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then another
class in August. I really enjoy teaching. It is something I didn’t expect to
get into but it has helped my confidence and I like to share my love for
Pilates and the benefits it gives to others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It may lead to other things…..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the running front, I began to develop some adductor/groin
pain in the January and it didn’t seem to get any better throughout the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some days were better than others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I put it down to tendinitis, so I eased back
a little and increased the stretching/strengthening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I saw a sports therapist and physio for
several months and they gave a similar diagnosis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eventually I was referred to the local IMATS
physio service and sent for an ultrasound/MRI.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have osteoarthritis in my left hip which the specialist doesn’t think
is attributing to the soreness but obviously long term it will become an issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The MRI showed osteitis pubis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Overloading/overtraining and an accumulation
of inflammation over a period of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
affects the adductors and abdominal muscles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My training had radically changed in November, gearing towards a
different target in 2019 which thankfully meant less running and more strength
work with some swimming and yoga thrown in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This helped the symptoms as I wasn’t pounding the road and trails as
much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was advised that it would be
either 3 months rest or to have an injection into the joint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The injection will hopefully knock it on the
head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not, then I need to be sensible
and take time out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s taken a long time to get a definitive
diagnosis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most of my 2018 races were short and fast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>PB’s in 3k, 5k, 10k and 5 miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Performances weren’t being affected by the
groin issue, but very uncomfortable afterwards. A mix of road/fell and even a
track 10k (mental challenge) kept the interest going.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Off to the Lakes on Saturday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weather looks dreadful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Typical after the last week of fine
weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Character building.</span></div>
Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-14899845583759618792018-03-26T08:18:00.000-07:002018-03-26T08:18:03.591-07:00Brough Law fell race, 25th March 2018
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The official opening of the Northumberland Fell running season began
yesterday in the beautiful Breamish valley for the annual Brough Law Fell
race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Given the extreme weather
conditions over the past few weeks, the gods were smiling on us all and brought
us a fantastic clear and sunny day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There was a little frost on the route early doors while flagging the
course but this thawed in time for he race itself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A total of 154 runners turned up and paid their £3 with the news that no
kit was required other than an advisory windproof as it was quite breezy up
top. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Young Matthew Briggs of NFR stormed home in first place closely followed
by Will Robson (North Shields poly) with Conor Carson from Kenilworth Runners
in third. Kurt Heron was leading up to the top of Cochrane Pike but
unfortunately went the wrong way and ended up in 12<sup>th</sup> overall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The women were led Home by Emma Holt of Morpeth harriers with Robyn
Bennett (NFR) and Georgia Campbell from Jarrow and Hebburn in third.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Lee Bennett was claimed first M40 prize, Colin Donnelly first M50, Gary
Owens first M60 and Bill Milborn first M70.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Freda Summerfield won W40, Katherine Davis first W50 and
Jessica Anderson first W60.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">Massive
thanks to the volunteers especially Mike Steven, Jane Briggs, Jane’s daughter, Paul
Steven, Barry Kemp and Ross Wilson. Great to see Joe Garbarino in good spirits.
Thanks to Northumberland National park for the use of the facilities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">£470 raised, great work everyone!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A grand day out. See you next
year<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">JB<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29S45dEDD09HOeLwwtptKq0QeIBWjUdJ2rfCtxs-7bArU5LxIP4__G6ruxeDR5GSnH9h2VIX_L92lCY8LkKyCJVzUkUGBDSsfNg9_jjDQOSNaMj8R1pocoPWZdkixgrS8rGJn0IC9mFc/s1600/Untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="421" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29S45dEDD09HOeLwwtptKq0QeIBWjUdJ2rfCtxs-7bArU5LxIP4__G6ruxeDR5GSnH9h2VIX_L92lCY8LkKyCJVzUkUGBDSsfNg9_jjDQOSNaMj8R1pocoPWZdkixgrS8rGJn0IC9mFc/s320/Untitled.png" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Into the blue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></div>
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<!--EndFragment--><br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-86052631715211050642017-10-31T07:22:00.002-07:002017-10-31T07:22:42.120-07:00Embracing the inevitable<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You’re
as old as you feel. Life begins at
40. Age knows no bounds. Useful statements in the right context. Running is different. A realisation at the Sherman Cup cross
country on Saturday that I am now thinking more about age category performance
against the youth and speed of today’s competitors rather than overall position. Even at a recent park run I looked at the age
grading percentage first!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I
was eyeing up the competition before the start on Saturday to see where I would
expect to finish in the v40 category, all being well. I knew a lad from Sunderland was in
particularly good form and expected to be roughly around the same time. I finished less than 30 seconds behind him in
2<sup>nd </sup>(24<sup>th</sup> overall).
I was really pleased with that and took it as a benchmark to build on. A
great result for Morpeth male and female teams too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I
think I’m in decent shape at the moment having put in a period of consistent
training with Morpeth and doing the odd race or Park Run. But the focus has definitely shifted. There is a point where you wake up and
realise you’re not as competitive overall in big races and you adjust your
outlook. In other words, face reality! On the flip side it can be used to my
advantage. If I beat younger athletes
they’ll be annoyed and if younger athletes beat me then I could turn around and
say “well, you should! You’re younger!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There
is also the issue of recovery. It takes much
longer these days after sessions and races.
I wouldn’t dream of doing back to back races. Train smart and race smart and look after
yourself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I’m
looking forward to the Gibside Fruitbowl this coming weekend, one of my
favourite races. </span><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-17178682395255402782017-09-10T13:08:00.001-07:002017-09-10T13:08:06.353-07:00Sur les Traces des Ducs de Savoie (TDS). Defeated but not beaten<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I arrived in Chamonix on Sunday evening 27<sup>th</sup>
August. The weather was good. Dry and warm.
There was an amazing view from my hotel room looking towards Mont Blanc
and Aguile du Midi. It was good to be
back and memories from 2015 came flooding back. I was disappointed to miss Mark Clarkson's Bob Graham the same weekend but he smashed it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQM-F1yhpkMwsrks4jP4vShumoeEOb0ajbKyNTzFa36k957a4zaA-eUOqrV9XRRbgel-WIWzpYnKGovScEvoQkIlPvD6aPNxBxqCukKU00KAuN_lDKvUt2BmC9xhFaHsfHZlGqXn5pA4/s1600/Screenshot_20170829-190941-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="657" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQM-F1yhpkMwsrks4jP4vShumoeEOb0ajbKyNTzFa36k957a4zaA-eUOqrV9XRRbgel-WIWzpYnKGovScEvoQkIlPvD6aPNxBxqCukKU00KAuN_lDKvUt2BmC9xhFaHsfHZlGqXn5pA4/s320/Screenshot_20170829-190941-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Registration</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This time the plan was slightly different. The TDS.
A 120k route from Courmayeur to Chamonix with 20,000+ ft of elevation
gain on rough, remote terrain. The race
was on the Wednesday so I had time to soak up the atmosphere before then.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the Monday I went on a training run up Le Brevent which
was easily accessible from behind the hotel.
A lovely forest trail zig zagging all the way up to the Col. There was some low cloud and drizzle on the
way up which was refreshing. There were
quite a few folk out, some running, some walking and some throwing themselves
off the top attached to paragliders. Crazy.
On the way down I said hello to Rory Bosio (as you do) who was doing the OCC and had a nice chat with
a female American who was going to be doing the UTMB.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Training run done, I spent the rest of the day lounging
around eating ice cream and getting a sun tan.
Tuesday was registration day. I
got there an hour early. Quite a few
people had the same idea so I joined the queue.
Luckily registration opened early so I was in and out within an
hour. The mid-day heat was fierce. I met Helene in the queue. It was lovely to meet her, she is from Paris
and we said we’d look out for each other’s results. Helene was amazing and finished well within
her predicted time. Congratulations!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wednesday was race day.
Up at 3am to catch the bus from Chamonix through the Mont Blanc tunnel
to Courmayeur. I managed to have some
cold porride, two bananas and a breakfast bar.
I also made sure I was well hydrated.
There were warnings of rain late in the day but the temperature was high
and the sun was going to be out. I
reached the start line having dropped off my spare bag for the halfway
point. Time to chill for 45
minutes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IkaGkp29z3b6CwUuAk7Vp8CEx29WmvDvsBhONQ3T_7RIJxKHxaEjxYWZJT8RMwRpS6TZlhLv64jVyyoXX3HLPf0Gc4sKp5zIwYUJDWvRuDW_6aj_lLZ9vVCHjKVTXh9W-_urJ-uyPDc/s1600/DSC_0554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IkaGkp29z3b6CwUuAk7Vp8CEx29WmvDvsBhONQ3T_7RIJxKHxaEjxYWZJT8RMwRpS6TZlhLv64jVyyoXX3HLPf0Gc4sKp5zIwYUJDWvRuDW_6aj_lLZ9vVCHjKVTXh9W-_urJ-uyPDc/s320/DSC_0554.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise on the first climb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The entertainment began with around 10 minutes to go to get
everyone motivated. It was dark but
headtorch was not required as the sun would be rising in the next hour. The start was crazy. Everyone sprinting down the small streets
jostling for position in preparation for the first climb. This was unnecessary
for the TDS as there was plenty room on the trail and we were soon nicely
spread out. I reached Col Checrouit, had
some liquid and a few slices of salami. Yum. The next checkpoint was Lac
Combal. I was feeling fine although the
temperature was rising and I was trying to drink loads. I was also conscious of salt intake. I necked a bowl of noodle soup and headed for
Col Chavannes. A tough climb which took over an hour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuK6BsOfp38VQuADoLCp6l2MjrYkBURPYgzIWYT4V7awz8EoNLjgn7jxIVKmAnhv6ety53KA6tX55DSwW9PbafQJu5iIoJoazKyCjjMgUiTmvasIkYmq6a3KyWt_KorS73m41LwsH4MQU/s1600/IMG_20170904_192153_455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuK6BsOfp38VQuADoLCp6l2MjrYkBURPYgzIWYT4V7awz8EoNLjgn7jxIVKmAnhv6ety53KA6tX55DSwW9PbafQJu5iIoJoazKyCjjMgUiTmvasIkYmq6a3KyWt_KorS73m41LwsH4MQU/s320/IMG_20170904_192153_455.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">En route to Col Chavannes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once I reached the top there was a long</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> descent to Alpetta. It was hot and I needed to urinate. The descent seemed to go on forever, a steady gradient and runnable but I took my time. A few runners passed me, but I wasn't taking much notice of that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We hit the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard and I was starting to feel it. Hot, tired,
thirsty. My hips were stiffening up and my glutes were worn out. I refuelled and set off on another long descent to</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Seez, a small checkpoint before the big one at half way. There was water on tap and I dunked my head into the trough. Really refreshing. It was another 3k to </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bourg Saint Maurice. I was walk/running at this point. Even on the flat and downhill. I couldn't sustain any momentum. I took a good 15 minutes at Bourg. A couple of bowls of noodle soup, some bread and some melon. My kit was checked as I exited for the essentials, headtorches and waterproof. Rain was on the way according to the forecast.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I knew what was in store next but you can't visualise or even comprehend how relentless the 6,000ft climb out of Bourg up to Passeur Pralognan via Fort de la Platte and Col de la Forclaz. Hands on knees for the majority. Yes, you can say it's 3 times the height of the Cheviot. But firstly, the Cheviot is over 3 miles from bottom to top. This climb was 6,000ft over 6/7k. The gradient, the heat, others dropping like flies at the side of the path it was an experience. I was hiking for 5 minutes then resting. This wasn't what trail running means to me. It took around 3 hours to reach the top then the nervous descent on the other side using fixed ropes to traverse down. I ain't great with heights and this was a test. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIXaRA3XyX3Q4ghCkpQG-NP5qZL6UJdCPHnw7hnG5mMXnFwwXa7lDwrxsZkeEcyk9XeOM0KtFmkFIkgmaw75UXsjz-Lad1NB152Wukhyphenhyphena_dqJpVOhCeMQQXarIyPj0LHkYfKD5Db7a9U/s1600/DSC_0563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIXaRA3XyX3Q4ghCkpQG-NP5qZL6UJdCPHnw7hnG5mMXnFwwXa7lDwrxsZkeEcyk9XeOM0KtFmkFIkgmaw75UXsjz-Lad1NB152Wukhyphenhyphena_dqJpVOhCeMQQXarIyPj0LHkYfKD5Db7a9U/s320/DSC_0563.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another hour to go on the bitch of a climb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was certainly feeling </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">defeated on the path down to Courmet de Rosalend where I ultimately withdrew from the race. My first voluntary DNF. I was in around 180th place at this point which is pretty respectable but I couldn't face walking another 30 miles just to finish. It was a clear decision and I have no regrets. I have fond memories of the CCC. That was a runners course. This was not.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I thought a lot on the bus ride back to Chamonix. Two and a half hours. I still think it was the right choice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had a great time in Cham, and met some lovely people. An experience. If I see another hiking pole it will be too soon. Ban the lot of them. Yes, they give you an advantage but I still say it's cheating. </span></div>
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Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-32071589110540987432017-08-15T03:42:00.002-07:002017-08-15T03:42:15.232-07:00Ultra time<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The TDS is only two weeks
away. I’ve had a good summer with some great results and some fantastic close, “real”
racing.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I love running fast and my
hunger has been re-ignited to get faster. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I’ve certainly learned that I am good at the
short, quick races and I feel that I could really kick on if I focussed on this
more. I never thought I’d say it but I want to put myself on the line more
frequently with the best in my age group and face my fears and anxieties.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It’s completely different to long distance
running where you spend most of the time on your own with your own thoughts.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It’s nice and relaxed but for me it’s more of
an adventure and a day out. I think I need the excitement of a close race.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I’ve been working a lot on mindfulness recently
which is giving me confidence.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I’ve not
entered races in the past because of putting too much pressure on myself.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I didn’t anticipate
regaining the Chevy Cup this year, especially with the expectation on others to
win. This was good for me as the
pressure was on my rivals. It was good
racing for the first half with young Will Robson and then kicking on from
Hedgehope using my experience of the race and the miles I’ve put in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This year has been strange
having not been to Morpeth harriers very much and ultimately leaving the
club. I do miss the group but I needed a
change for many reasons. I’ve been
floating about doing my own thing and dropping into training sessions at North
Shields Poly. After the TDS I’ll be
committing to a club and setting a few targets.
One of which will be aiming for another England vest in 2018.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">So, I am off to Chamonix in
a couple of weeks. My last visit in 2015
was an amazing experience and I’m looking forward to a different course,
although the TDSS is longer with more ascent.
It will be tough. Having enjoyed
the short stuff this summer, I do realise that I have neglected the long days
out but I hope I am fit enough and strong enough to finish the race. That is the main goal. I do not intend to “race” it. The wheels could come off and I could end up
injured.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We’ll see how it goes…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-83655802688102803832017-02-26T10:50:00.000-08:002017-02-26T10:50:29.577-08:00Low cloud at High Cup Nick. 9.3m, 1500'<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a gloomy, muggy, clarty, slippy and wet day at Dufton yesterday for my first High Cup Nick fell race. A far cry from the previous weekend up at Wooler for Glen McWilliams' splendid Border trail race where the weather was amazing. It is, of course, usually grim weather for Glen's races so I'm not sure how he managed that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've heard some great reviews of the High Cup Nick race saying it is quick with stunning views. Unfortunately with the low cloud I wouldn't be able to appreciate that but looked forward to the route. There were four NFR's and a strong contingent from North Shields Poly with this race being in their championship series.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The start was ridiculously fast, hindered more-so by my mid-pack positioning, but I made my way through. The first few miles were easy going but then there was a long boggy, tussocky section which I found heavy going. Then we were climbing High Cup Nick. The rocks were very slippery and my x-talons were useless! Once on top the visibility was poor and I was on my own but luckily I could spot the race markers and followed the route down. The descent all the way to the finish was long a quick. I had North Shields Poly's Will Robson in my sights but he wasn't to be caught.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Will R finished in a great 16th place. I came home in 19th (70 mins). Fellow NFR and car passenger Chris Winter finished in 84th (81mins), Colin Archer from Morpeth Harriers was 54th in (77 mins). Also in attendance was Jason Taylor making his race comeback plus one other NFR. Results are not out yet so I do not know where they finished. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tom Addison won the race in 61 minutes with the ladies winner Victoria Wilkinson in 11th overall coming in just under 67 minutes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The soup and roll at the end was tremendous, accompanied by some homemade flapjack.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A grand day out and one to do again. Hopefully next time I'll get to appreciate the views myself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">JB</span>Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-64010811219505595612016-11-28T12:36:00.000-08:002016-11-28T12:36:18.866-08:00To be continued....... I will make time!<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Days turn into weeks and weeks turn into months all too quickly these days. Where have the past eleven months gone?! Routine is all well and good but when it distracts you from the important things in life and you see time pass by you realise what is precious and what you should make time for. We all have priorities and it is healthy to be reminded of these now and again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My last post was dedicated to the Chevy Chase back in July after finally bringing home the trophy. It is sitting on the living room book case still waiting to be engraved. I can tell it is annoying the Mrs being there but tough, I have it to enjoy the memories of such a great day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There have been some changes in my work life this year with a secondment which went really well. Initially, it was out of my comfort zone but I gained new experiences and met some lovely people who I will meet up with. Needless to say I'm back at my substantive role full time. This has given me an insight into what is out there and given me confidence to explore new opportunities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been running a lot more with Jasper, my spaniel. He loves being out in the hills as much as me and there's nothing quite like running with your dog. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been racing quite regularly since the Chevy with a couple of road 10k's, trail races (including one of my favourites in the Gibside fruit bowl), the Hodgson fell relays and also representing England at the British and Irish Masters cross country championships in Glasgow. That was a fantastic experience and I thoroughly enjoyed the weekend. I even kept the vest!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Top bunch</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year has been as varied as it could have been. Next year I'm thinking of more fell races in the Lakes, Scotland and the Peak district, one or two trail ultra's and I'm very tempted to do something abroad again. I do believe variety is key to keep things fresh, I must have lost my mojo several times over the past few months. I went out on a 17 mile run around the Simonside Hills yesterday but didn't see it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's never a good idea to plan too far ahead but I have a few ideas bubbling away.</span>Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-18214214453629600822016-07-16T12:54:00.000-07:002016-07-16T12:54:34.479-07:00Chevy Chase 2016<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's now just over two weeks since the 60th Chevy chase fell race. Legs are just about back to normal and the result has just about sunk in.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was my 5th Chevy, although it should have been the 6th having had to miss last year due to my bad back and the lack of training leading up to it. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year I was determined to give it a good go. From past experience of this race I have tried several strategies. In 2013 I started steady and finished strong in 3rd place. In 2014 I started too quick and ran out of fuel in the last few miles but finished second. I planned my tactics with the aim of trying to keep with the leaders up to the Hedgehope descent and then push on if I felt good.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The weather was much better than anticipated although there was a headwind on the way out. The first few miles were awful. I felt really heavy and quite lethargic. I was in a leading group of 3 or 4 up to the Cheviot summit. Coming off cheviot I took my time to try and save the legs. This allowed other runners to catch up and track me. I assumed the two on my shoulder hadn't run the route before as they followed my every move down to the burn then up to the Hedgehope summit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Skirting Housey Crags I began to open a little bit of a gap and I was feeling quite comfortable having eaten and made sure I was taking on water at regular intervals. From this point on I didn't look behind me. Not once. This was difficult as there's nothing worse than being hunted down.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I passed through Brands Corner then Carey Burn and Hell's path. I hadn't been caught up to this point so I began to think I was in with a good chance. I put the hammer down, knowing that when the road section was reached that I had the pace to challenge if needed. I turned the corner into the Wooler Youth Hostel and was greeted with cheers, it was all rather exciting that i'd actually done it. I had won the Chevy chase!! I was overjoyed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As always, thank to all the organisers, volunteers and supporters. Best in Northumberland!</span><br />
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Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-36690989971920456332016-04-18T05:09:00.001-07:002016-04-18T05:13:14.716-07:00National 12 stage road relays, Sutton Park 16th April 2016<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.866666793823242px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> landed a place in the B team for this annual event down in Birmingham. Morpeth had two teams who qualified from the Northern relays a few weeks ago (in which I didn’t compete). This was my first visit to Sutton Park since I was a wee nipper, or so I was told by the Club official. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a long journey, around 3 and a half hours travelling with Messrs Snowball, Alder and Haswell. We embarked on a recce around part of the course to see what was in store for us, and it was going to hurt. I was on a long leg (approx. 5.4 miles) and was fifth in the pecking order. I had envisaged a lot more teams being involved, there were around 60-70 in total and by the time I headed off on my leg the numbers were well spread out. I was on my own for the majority. I wasn’t overtaken and made up around six places. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0);">The course was tough. There were a few steady climbs which felt like they went on forever and the ice cream truck at the 2 mile mark took a long time to come into view. There was good support around the course which was most welcome. I’m so glad I wasn’t on the 12</span><sup style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0);"> </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0);">leg, it would have been the longest day ever waiting around.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The A team finished eighth and the B team in the low 50’s. It was a great performance by both teams and an experience to remember.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I aim to return in four weeks for the National Masters relays.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s the Yorkshire 3 peaks race in two weeks’ time. I have no hills in my legs so I may have to give it a miss. The Cheviot/Hedgehope pendulum race is on the Sunday which would be more manageable at half the distance. Apparently there’s a drone filming it………<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-42036503936359408592016-03-13T13:37:00.002-07:002016-03-13T13:37:48.101-07:00Brough Law report 2016<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There was a great
turnout today at the Brough Law fell race in the Ingram valley.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>82 runners registered and duly
completed the 5 mile course on a very mild, dry and wind free day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perfect weather and the strongest hint
yet that spring is in the air.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Setting up the course early doors</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First back was an in
form Lee Bennett in his recently renewed NFR colours in 37:45, closely followed
by last year’s winner David Beech in 37:59.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Third place went to Morpeth’s Mark Snowball in a very good
time of 38:38.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr Bennett taking the win</td></tr>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the women’s race,
Karen Robertson crossed the line first in 44:13 with Katherine Davis second in 46:39
and Claire Bagness in third with 49:51.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A special note of thanks
go to the following people for their invaluable help:</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Mike
Steven, Richard Kirby (+ son/wife), Jane Briggs, Michael Briggs and Andy
Richardson for their support and help on the day.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Ross
Wilson for permission to hold the race and for dismantling the course after the
race.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Northumberland
National Park ranger (Mark) for the use of the new facilities at Bulby’s wood.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Stuart
Ferguson for the support from Hangar 18/FRA and guidance in making sure everything
went smoothly.</span></li>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A total of £220 was raised
for Northumberland Mountain rescue.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you to all who
took part.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">FYI – apologies to
Marie and Jeffrey Emmerson who should have received prizes and didn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>George R was mistakenly given a prize,
but I’m sure he enjoyed it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Any queries with the
results, let me know <a href="mailto:fellrunner1975@gmail.com">fellrunner1975@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">JB.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-15574755959951746142016-03-06T12:30:00.003-08:002016-03-06T12:30:46.766-08:00May the glutes be with you....A long time ago in a backside not too far away.......<br />
<br />
Glutes. Pretty important. Especially for a runner. They are the largest muscle group in the human body and need to be taken seriously. This came to the forefront in my running life over a year ago, and I'm still playing catch up. I have so many glute stretches and strengthening exercises in my sporadic cross training routine that I could write a book about it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzFtnCilM46XSxBinK7gWiFO30UPfoKT4PsjAnL1HAH6VmuEO52hZ3K4bKFYtENtP1qawHj29vy8dkAltAC7oBAI8C28tlF5_oCXxBzXgzMVVRICxrpgqelDOyNykitQPGJzL66A_yYg/s1600/glute.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzFtnCilM46XSxBinK7gWiFO30UPfoKT4PsjAnL1HAH6VmuEO52hZ3K4bKFYtENtP1qawHj29vy8dkAltAC7oBAI8C28tlF5_oCXxBzXgzMVVRICxrpgqelDOyNykitQPGJzL66A_yYg/s320/glute.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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The main problem is that I work in an office. I'm on my arse most of the day, which is the worst thing in the world for the glutes. They become lazy and don't 'fire' correctly when running. This results in other muscle groups overcompensating which ultimately results in overuse injuries and tightness, meaning more stretching. In particular the adductors on my right side become very tight as well as my lower back. This doesn't stop me running but it does mean I have constant reminders that I need to increase my bum size.</div>
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So, I am doing squats, bridges, lunges, rolling on a tennis ball on a daily basis when time permits. Active stretching before a run to wake up the glutes and my new found love for Pilates!</div>
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I have also discovered that I have a tight Piriformis and stiff hip capsules. Again, from the office work. It's easier said than done, but getting off your chair in a busy job every 15-20 minutes is sometimes impossible. The battle continues....</div>
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On a positive note I ran in the Masters North East cross country championships at the beginning of February. I did better than expected in finishing 4th overall and 2nd V40. I also ran a park run at Newcastle last week and achieved a parkrun PB of 16:13. Not far off my 5k PB. There are some good signs there, the key is to consistent training.</div>
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I'm organising the Brough Law fell race next weekend so I won't be racing until the Thrunton Thriller 10k the week after. Then of course the Good Friday relays.</div>
<span id="goog_199092948"></span><span id="goog_199092949"></span><br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-41903509842107624502016-01-05T12:49:00.001-08:002016-01-05T12:49:20.350-08:00Brief update<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few updates since my last post.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Leeds Abbey dash went better than expected. I secretly aimed for sub 34 and just sneaked in with 33:51, the last mile was tough which showed up my lack of speed endurance. I was happy all the same.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I missed the North Eastern cross country due to not putting my name down before the deadline. Instead I went for the Simonside Cairns race. A cracking 11 miler starting in Rothbury. This time my speed endurance paid off, battling with a young whipper snapper in the remaining three miles. I broke free and ended up winning. Champion!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Morpeth 11k was a cold affair and a good way to start the year. It was very quick considering the long drag up Morpeth steads. I was happy with the result and felt quite strong at the end. Pilates is paying dividends. 1st v40, 13th overall.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have no targets this year in particular. I have, however, sent off my application for the North East Masters. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am quite happy getting in some consistent training weeks and picking events when they crop up. No doubt I'll be swayed into trying something daft......</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All the best.</span><br />
<br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-40627675794171839112015-11-13T09:30:00.000-08:002015-11-13T09:30:26.584-08:00Quiet pride<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Where does the time go? Two and a half months ago I completed what was my toughest, yet most satisfying event in the CCC. It seems like it was years ago. I've attempted to describe what the experience was like on many occasions but it is so difficult to put into words. It all comes flooding back flicking through the photo's. Great memories.<br />
<br />
Since my return I've had period of rest, but soon got back into the swing of things. Simonside fell race (Thropton show), Sherman Cup cross country, the Gibside fruit bowl and a park run have all come and gone like a whirlwind. Is this what happens once you reach 40!?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have had a solid block of consistent training and also into my ninth week of Pilates classes. I can highly recommend them, I'm definitely feeling the benefit. It's not easy, mind you.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, off to Leeds this weekend for the Abbey Dash 10k. My first time at this one and 17 months since my last 10k. The weather looks particularly grim so I don't expect any fast times.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm enjoying my running and just taking it as it comes. If I fancy a race I'll do it, I'm not planning too far into the future as it always ends up badly. I still have a certain annoying chimp on my shoulder though. He may be difficult to remove......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LYUROQgR-JWKh0Ykz5rjlmCbbpkqYpZQYhsXADjKsnuW31i2jJi2i_rWeU9Qm3_YFKq8gaSBxA_6j6piWKK8iwaiK7FQ8O8HU7g3Ve8I2cJUg9q5S11ZwT9jwbEo0mJ3wG3z4lRprds/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LYUROQgR-JWKh0Ykz5rjlmCbbpkqYpZQYhsXADjKsnuW31i2jJi2i_rWeU9Qm3_YFKq8gaSBxA_6j6piWKK8iwaiK7FQ8O8HU7g3Ve8I2cJUg9q5S11ZwT9jwbEo0mJ3wG3z4lRprds/s400/images.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-1010442743881443372015-09-08T10:12:00.000-07:002015-09-08T10:12:13.755-07:00Courmayeur Champex Chamonix (CCC) August 2015<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">The adventure finally arrived to race in the CCC on the 28<sup>th</sup>
August 2015. Three years in the
planning and it was here, exciting times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">My wife, parents and myself landed at Geneva airport on the
evening of Monday 24<sup>th</sup> August and were promptly collected by our
transfer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A pleasant chap named
Nick, from South Shields! Small world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The journey seemed to pass very quickly and ninety minutes later we
exited the Mont Blanc tunnel and arrived in Courmayeur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My wife noticed immediately that the
majority of people were wrapped up in fleeces and jackets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t worry, it’s going to be nice
tomorrow”, I said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had been
monitoring the forecast over the past week and it was changeable but sunny
skies were due.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">We awoke the next morning and opened the curtains onto our
balcony to the sight of a mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It wasn’t Mont Blanc, but one of the foothills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That alone was one heck of a size.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4IrmrdT3b4BvxW87shHcLhhemPoMiZWkHcw0vIvDi7_vndWbvafTwjKhvqsg5S4EjWPsVzbiPegPCq9AgauK9ZsX6lWIfDvd5Bc1JlYG6Gz43qWbEHD8YsPawasM8BkmtYhzknFqQBY/s1600/IMG_1586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4IrmrdT3b4BvxW87shHcLhhemPoMiZWkHcw0vIvDi7_vndWbvafTwjKhvqsg5S4EjWPsVzbiPegPCq9AgauK9ZsX6lWIfDvd5Bc1JlYG6Gz43qWbEHD8YsPawasM8BkmtYhzknFqQBY/s320/IMG_1586.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mont Blanc from the hotel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">During breakfast I popped outside to
check the ambient temperature and walked around the corner to be blown away by
the south face of Mont Blanc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was phenomenal, almost impossible to comprehend the sheer size of it soaring
above some small wisps of cloud against the crisp blue of the sky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that was only a small part of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">After we got our bearings I headed off for a recce run of the
first four miles of the race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Looking at the course profile, the first 10k was a climb up to Tete de
la Tronche so I wanted to get an idea of what lay in store to mentally
prepare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The heat was becoming
more and more noticeable by lunchtime, much to the delight of my family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was thinking that it was going to be
a struggle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I sat down on the path
up to Tete de la Tronche looking down on Courmayeur and tried to soak up the
view, knowing that this was a unique opportunity which I should make the most
of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFTsV1AtVkdeF76gFLNqM5vrVKupe1U9n2uE6OYdlgPVmQNRd4Cw4q2GKP5OGNEkugiC7h4r4KwldUo8fD_bxQipTczTeCSajW2YtK17zPrwCqYA8AHM2d40I44Zt_1SpxlqOmPxkICQ/s1600/IMG_1763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFTsV1AtVkdeF76gFLNqM5vrVKupe1U9n2uE6OYdlgPVmQNRd4Cw4q2GKP5OGNEkugiC7h4r4KwldUo8fD_bxQipTczTeCSajW2YtK17zPrwCqYA8AHM2d40I44Zt_1SpxlqOmPxkICQ/s320/IMG_1763.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what a place</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">The TDS set off on the Wednesday morning, skirting past our
hotel at 6am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Paul Appleby was
competing in this race and I tracked him during the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately the heat and other circumstances meant he had to retire around half way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A tremendous effort nonetheless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">On Thursday I went to register.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A great friend (Mike) arrived that morning to give support
during the event and to enjoy the Alps for himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all went to registration with all my gear hoping that it
would go through without any issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I got through and received my wrist band and t-shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just needed to have a big supper and
a decent night’s sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">I was up, ready and down for breakfast before 7:30am
intending to get to the start line at 8am for a good place in the pen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I passed over my drop bag for the
finish and soaked up the atmosphere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lots of runners with all of the expensive gear and compression wear and
sticks!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I rock up with my 2011
Blaydon race t-shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sports
casual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chevy chase buff was
mandatory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I met up with Tony and
Emma (Tony was doing the CCC too) and gave him by best wishes on his journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaXAX3LwW5TRaL6TETSYCkNz4CvdXAax-5QJGoAyb0wBHXPDleb3C5QPciWRG_x6o-Nt9ofaov989tNOyeF4DN8VnlIHhOxJ-famF2lK1GDbPZWp66WPBq4mMQ0pRWfirDPhpyANvBNk/s1600/IMG_1689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaXAX3LwW5TRaL6TETSYCkNz4CvdXAax-5QJGoAyb0wBHXPDleb3C5QPciWRG_x6o-Nt9ofaov989tNOyeF4DN8VnlIHhOxJ-famF2lK1GDbPZWp66WPBq4mMQ0pRWfirDPhpyANvBNk/s320/IMG_1689.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ready for the off</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">With 20 minutes to go I lost my spot in the pen having been
well hydrated at breakfast...<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
ended up at the back which wasn’t ideal on the narrow streets of the
start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The atmosphere began to
build as the minutes ticked down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Music and commentary blaring out of the speakers was certainly a
distraction and before I knew it we were off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A long day ahead for us all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">The first mile or so passes through the lovely town of
Courmayeur and then off up to the trails and forests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I waved to my support knowing I wouldn’t see any<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of them until around 5pm, 8 hours later
in Champex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the climb went on
the more the field was spreading out which was just as well as the trails were
very narrow and steep to overtake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was already one 500ml bottle down half way up to Tete de la
Tronche.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mountain streams were
going to come in very handy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
helicopter was flying overhead taking footage which was great, so I offered a
wave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I arrived at the summit and
was duly scanned by the officials and made my way to Refuge Bertone and the
first stop for food and drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This section was easy running with a gentle descent, some of which was
technical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a great
reception at the checkpoint and I had my bottles refilled by the volunteers and
grabbed some food to carry with me (thanks for the sandwich bag tip,
Steph!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">There was a good running
section all the way to Refuge Bonati and down to Arnuva, the last stop before a
big climb up to Grand Col Ferret.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The heat was becoming intense at around 30 degrees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I drank all of my water reserve on the
climb and enquired at the top where the next water stop was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>10k!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luckily I came across a mountain stream and replenished my
bottles a couple of kilometres of the descent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8DoEPh_-rW3okALb5yH4hsskF0IFJnLptznNeaEXYkG9UBLTV9iS_-IZkcyhY8-10m6FlsoO_lGlGbdYSAygjVuFpsGXEBzKQuLRXr6ppluU6ULHH48IVgrTzWbS9-IbvRas2IEd86Q/s1600/IMG_1777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8DoEPh_-rW3okALb5yH4hsskF0IFJnLptznNeaEXYkG9UBLTV9iS_-IZkcyhY8-10m6FlsoO_lGlGbdYSAygjVuFpsGXEBzKQuLRXr6ppluU6ULHH48IVgrTzWbS9-IbvRas2IEd86Q/s320/IMG_1777.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First climb - note helicopter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">I stopped for ten minutes or so at the La Fouly
checkpoint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a substantial
area with refreshments but I felt I needed to compose myself especially with
the heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried to eat a variety
of salty food and some sweet with plenty of liquids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was looking forward to reaching Champex to see some
familiar faces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only Praz de Fort
to pass through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I reached Praz de
Fort and was convinced that it was Champex so it gave me a lift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This subsequently turned into
disappointment when running through the town and there was no marquee and only
a handful of people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This deflated
me considerably and struggled up the next climb to Champex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was told I looked dreadful upon
arrival and Mike advised me to spend at least 30 minutes to pull myself
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had a blister since
the 20 mile marker, some grit rubbing in my sock but it was too late to do
anything about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I stripped down
to my shorts to cool off and Mike ran around after me the whole time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was definitely worth stopping the
extra time as it could have meant the difference between finishing and
not!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thanked Mike and said hi to
my folks when I headed off onto the next section.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">I broke the race down at this point, only 17k to the next
checkpoint at Trient. That’s all I focussed on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The climbs are so steep and long that it’s impossible to run
so I made up my time on the flat (wasn’t much) and the descents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These were very technical in places so
it took a lot of concentration to keep on my feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My blisters were numbing into insignificance with everything
else distracting them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">I descended into Trient and met up with Mike again with
everything prepared for my arrival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Spare t-shirt being number one priority.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only two more climbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Only 10k until the next checkpoint at Vallorcine, but almost 3000’ of
climb in the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was beginning
to get dark on this section but didn’t need my headtorch until I left
Vallorcine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>19k to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve come this far, surely I can make
it now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was still very warm and
had no need for a jacket or baselayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj75AGhNDhJMZlZ_UoVrZJCfbUVhwHMtyFMht-IKrHLlndbhbYj5AF7xPL1x8M6eioT11YcHJ54-H6N5Bg5TWIg54EWHwkQMXBoYQ3qmBj0SWuRS-5ysRo6UqjPhrG0sDrZUOhisUerEx0/s1600/IMG_1701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj75AGhNDhJMZlZ_UoVrZJCfbUVhwHMtyFMht-IKrHLlndbhbYj5AF7xPL1x8M6eioT11YcHJ54-H6N5Bg5TWIg54EWHwkQMXBoYQ3qmBj0SWuRS-5ysRo6UqjPhrG0sDrZUOhisUerEx0/s320/IMG_1701.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">getting set for the last 12 miles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">I left the Vallorcine checkpoint and said goodbye to Mike and
my dad saying I’d see them at the finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was a fast walk to the ascent and after that it was a struggle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could see headtorches above me zig
sagging all the way up to the top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This 12 miles took 3.5 hours and it felt like it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was surprised near the top when I
turned my head and my headtorch illuminated a mountain goat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was it really there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It looked straight at me and didn’t
move. I reached Tete aux Vents and knew it was all downhill from here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The relief was overwhelming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ran the rest of the route without
stopping, passing several runners on the way down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chamonix was illuminated in the distance but didn’t seem to
get any closer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ploughed on
thinking of the finish line then reached the tarmac of Chamonix town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I spotted Mike when I made my way
through the barriers to the centre and he shouted only 300metres.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I accelerated into a sprint finish an
crossed the line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A wave of emotion
came over me and I hugged my wife, parents and Mike thanking them for
everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was complete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had done it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was so proud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was like a weight had been lifted
from my shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>153<sup>rd</sup>
in 17hrs 39mins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gilet well
earned! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">Having missed 4 months out of 8 this year with injury etc it
was touch and go whether I would even make it to the start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took a considerable amount of mental
strength to get through this race, especially at Champex when I felt rubbish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My legs seemed fine throughout with no
cramp which was a bonus. Tired legs, of course! I can’t underestimate this
challenge and hats off to everyone who has competed in any of the UTMB races.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well done John Telfer in the UTMB!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">Many thanks to everyone who supported me. I couldn’t have done it without you.<span style="font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGCl_kmOVaZE666Iukdpy2d43fisFFx-_EAmhoNDZTYRILMSdaUGa2l5pmgcqHgo3DE8GLhfAKFCRYm3pUkwpa1qtVNLmCbrwnr0YRuz1C_ZnouiiTVK83bTlqOx7-Rua53x5gSsV9YM/s1600/IMG_1799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGCl_kmOVaZE666Iukdpy2d43fisFFx-_EAmhoNDZTYRILMSdaUGa2l5pmgcqHgo3DE8GLhfAKFCRYm3pUkwpa1qtVNLmCbrwnr0YRuz1C_ZnouiiTVK83bTlqOx7-Rua53x5gSsV9YM/s320/IMG_1799.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">done</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-21243364588500344532015-07-27T04:04:00.000-07:002015-07-27T04:04:18.581-07:00Glute force….less<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I haven’t
blogged for a while.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Partly due to
injury and partly due to my complete lack of interest in running of late.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Over two months ago I injured my back. Another
setback in 2015. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I can’t quite put my
finger on the incident but I turned up at the club session with a stiff lower
back.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I did the session and the stiffness
was worse afterwards.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I ran the day
after but ended up almost limping.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The
following day I couldn’t put weight on my right leg, the “nervy” sensation like
being poked with a cattle prod – not that I’ve been prodded before but I
imagine it would have similar symptoms.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">It emanated from the right lower back area which was around the
Sacroiliac joint/lower vertebrae. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I
sought advice from my physio and even visited a chiropractor for some
manipulation.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I was limping into work,
walking the dog, even around the house.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">It took so much time to settle down. I’m very grateful to Keith from
Synergy, he has been tremendous in treating me with everything from acupuncture
and shock wave to ultrasound.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Top bloke.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 14.9499998092651px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">It was touch
and go for a while whether to call off the CCC (which is at the end of August)
and defer until next year.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">All the
preparation and organisation, not to mention the financial outlay, was hanging
in the balance.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I gave myself a
deadline.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">If there wasn’t a significant
improvement before mid June then I would throw in the towel.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I had to miss some of my favourite races,
watching on the sidelines with envy.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Blaydon,
the Chevy Chase, Windy Gyle all cancelled.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">This was a huge blow having just returned to fitness following surgery
earlier in the year and the boost of the Anniversary Waltz race.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 14.9499998092651px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Nobody likes
to be injured when all you want to do is pop out for a run.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">It is even more frustrating when you have
plans which have been on the horizon for almost three years.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">It’s like a kick in the nuts.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The most common diagnosis for all of my
recent woes come down to lazy glutes.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 14.9499998092651px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">So, although
my back still niggles and my glutes are still not firing properly, I am in a
better place and am looking forward to participating in the CCC.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I will make the most of the experience and
just hope I get around in one piece.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I
am also looking forward to getting it out of the way.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">It has been at the forefront of my life for
too long and I won’t be planning anything like this again after the troubles I
have had.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 14.9499998092651px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">After the
CCC, who knows.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I’m definitely not as
passionate about running as I was and realise that there is so much more to
enjoy in life like savouring the little things and making the most of living in
the moment.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Clichéd, maybe.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">But it is fact. I’m not worried if I miss a
session or a run and I’m out of the “routine” by fitting running in around life
rather than vice versa.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 14.9499998092651px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">So, I’m off
to Borrowdale this weekend for the fell race.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I intend to use it as a training run and will be carrying all my kit
needed for the CCC as a tester.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 14.9499998092651px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Post CCC – no
plans.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">A few people have mentioned a Bob
Graham attempt but I’m not sure. I might fall back to shorter races, I still
have some pace…</span><br />
Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-56234841364825637302015-04-19T07:45:00.002-07:002015-04-19T07:45:51.526-07:00Cheviot Horseshoe and the Anniversary Waltz raceNo racing since December with one thing and another, mainly the pesky ongoing injury problems...... However, I've had a good stint of quality training sessions and long runs so I threw my hat into the ring to do a double weekend of races. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntvoTD-UrwzOO6tjLRTpdghcbSwjxWgHruYnZTcc9emRKSpLm-ZKFzhAooKgAFSCmiFQaHnfsM5rkP4o3uHC5Sw3hU_44vt27DJfR9XnrMYwyGxj7A4AQu_Mzk1ToUwJygsvxuFFjIoo/s1600/IMG_1297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntvoTD-UrwzOO6tjLRTpdghcbSwjxWgHruYnZTcc9emRKSpLm-ZKFzhAooKgAFSCmiFQaHnfsM5rkP4o3uHC5Sw3hU_44vt27DJfR9XnrMYwyGxj7A4AQu_Mzk1ToUwJygsvxuFFjIoo/s1600/IMG_1297.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Descending Hedgehope</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Cheviot Horseshoe race, 12th April 2015</u></b><br />
<br />
The Cheviot Horseshoe was a 9.5 mile route up the Cheviot, Cairn Hill around Comb Fell then up and down Hedgehope. After a glorious week of fine weather, it was typical that race day took a turn for the worse! It's not often I start a race with waterproof jacket but on this occasion I did and didn't take it off until the finish. The race began in the rain and wind and half way up Cheviot the rain turned into snow. Heavy snow. It was a winter wonderland and a long drag up to the summit. The flags at the top were very slippy and took a lot of concentration to keep upright especially with the snow smacking the red raw skin of the face. My gloves were doing nothing to protect my hands, they were probably making them more cold and numb being wet through.<br />
<br />
The trudge along Comb fell towards Hedgehope was a bog fest, ending up waist deep at one point. Thanks to Gary Robson for helping me out. At the ascent of Hedghehope I began to catch the runners in front and was up to 7th spot, an extra mile and I would have closed up to 5th or 6th. Great running from everyone in atrocious conditions and huge thanks to Glen and Jack McWilliams for putting on the event. £300 was raised for Mountain Rescue, fabulous!<br />
Link to the event page <a href="http://www.northumberlandfellrunners.co.uk/?p=1916" target="_blank">http://www.northumberlandfellrunners.co.uk/?p=1916</a><br />
<br />
<b><u>Anniversary Waltz race, 18th April 2015</u></b><br />
<br />
The Cheviot race gave me some idea of how my climbing legs were and was a good preparation race for the Anniversary Waltz. I was humming and harring up until Friday afternoon whether to do the race or not having had a hard training week and heavy week with work. I convinced myself to do it and to just enjoy it. The weather was much improved from the week before, beautiful sunshine and 11-12 degrees when we reached Stair in the Newlands Valley. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhHjJkFAdYF2PpMs17GuMynI6hA0IR7TOOmQ8K2t4H3Wm-XRtIcCc997druOqnuMs1QH6jHXhA1K16ni8e_96csjZ1LzA87KDWIgPbXSLBmbORi65Jv_0LlrsRS7_cqA940UdeaevM8w/s1600/IMG_1303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhHjJkFAdYF2PpMs17GuMynI6hA0IR7TOOmQ8K2t4H3Wm-XRtIcCc997druOqnuMs1QH6jHXhA1K16ni8e_96csjZ1LzA87KDWIgPbXSLBmbORi65Jv_0LlrsRS7_cqA940UdeaevM8w/s1600/IMG_1303.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top weather</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race started and I strategically placed myself mid-pack. The first 3 miles are good running so I relaxed into it and took in the atmosphere. The climb up Robinson I was in fourth or fifth place and was quite surprised given that this is a very popular fell race and is in the Lake District with a great deal of quality runners. I kept up with a guy from Keswick who was strong on the climbs but I gained time on him on the flat and downhills. We yo-yo'd from Robinson right up until the finish. It was nice to have that as it took my mind off the climbs and I could relax and take in the spectacular views. <br />
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The final descent from Cat Bells was so fast that it could quite easily have resulted in a fall or injury but thankfully I survived. I was in fourth at this point chasing the Keswick guy with two or three runners closing in behind. I thought that if I was up there at the final road section then I would have a good chance of a podium finish. I dug deep and stepped up the pace and crossed the line in 3rd. Way above my expectations. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBHr7vBRbtnI46Lr9CAOvdJ4ng5NVN9vL4ldM-ahXTCKzjnL5uOiGjzd_Ehkni-easn0HjeYoavMUtzDdGqWx65issZgxOalT7gT2tyM1sG-RiBC1tIT3PIWgSKMGhcrW88p5J8Et91U/s1600/IMG_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBHr7vBRbtnI46Lr9CAOvdJ4ng5NVN9vL4ldM-ahXTCKzjnL5uOiGjzd_Ehkni-easn0HjeYoavMUtzDdGqWx65issZgxOalT7gT2tyM1sG-RiBC1tIT3PIWgSKMGhcrW88p5J8Et91U/s1600/IMG_0006.JPG" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final descent from Catbells</td></tr>
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This is a cracking event and would recommend it! The Teenager With Altitude is held on the same day but is longer with more ascent. I'l have to give that a try sometime. The bait after the race was top notch too. Mince and potatoes followed by some gluten free cake. Back of the net.<br />
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Event page (results not yet available): <a href="http://www.anniversarywaltz.co.uk/?page_id=162" target="_blank">http://www.anniversarywaltz.co.uk/?page_id=162</a><br />
<br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-38200446359358582892015-03-24T13:52:00.001-07:002015-03-24T13:52:36.593-07:00Brough Law and Rowling End<b><u>Brough Law</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEn9FGwIWRw8hjrDKhzPOEgMt-nKL_9W_7QYuNXyL5IMcE14SHADLCPX8K7LvF3aJHUcZZaLJ0ERommzCnqbmtIAOoHb4X2dVi0TQ7tw5UG29ht0hoDWlVf_qzjXH5aPgFFLYsEnwFaMM/s1600/IMG_1173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEn9FGwIWRw8hjrDKhzPOEgMt-nKL_9W_7QYuNXyL5IMcE14SHADLCPX8K7LvF3aJHUcZZaLJ0ERommzCnqbmtIAOoHb4X2dVi0TQ7tw5UG29ht0hoDWlVf_qzjXH5aPgFFLYsEnwFaMM/s1600/IMG_1173.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for the off - Brough Law</td></tr>
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A while ago I put my name forward to take over the reigns for the Brough law fell race. This offer was taken up so in 2016 I will be race organiser! Scary. So, on a gorgeous March day, I turned up at Bulby's wood car park at 7am to meet the current organiser and to learn the ropes. This entailed setting up the course and registration. I would, of course, preferred to be running the race but still too early in my recuperation. <br />
As it was the organiser's last race, the fee was only one pound. I won't go into the detail but there weren't enough numbers to go around which made for a hectic finish to the race. I'm looking forward to next year, although I think it'll be more than £1! I'm trying to think of an incentive too, a small prize perhaps. Must advertise early!<br />
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<b><u>Rowling End</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLj6eOS3bcsVn4b8hjKPo0vAuP0HoJrV-WATyIFpTWzgyRFu4zchQNmCA32IdUmUdk-BDSJHJ-KELXRcClI-UtR7_QC3HN3vfYV7kZqFppSQn6juIfk29v09glDqADi0zTiDWL1OY7x-8/s1600/IMG_1243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLj6eOS3bcsVn4b8hjKPo0vAuP0HoJrV-WATyIFpTWzgyRFu4zchQNmCA32IdUmUdk-BDSJHJ-KELXRcClI-UtR7_QC3HN3vfYV7kZqFppSQn6juIfk29v09glDqADi0zTiDWL1OY7x-8/s1600/IMG_1243.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not a bad view - Rowling End</td></tr>
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On the weekend of Friday the 13th March, my wife and I (along with Jasper) had a lovely cottage break over in the Lake District. We stayed at Rowling End in the Newlands Valley, just up the road from Stair. The cottage was ideal, perfect for two people with energetic pooch. The view from the front of the cottage was towards Cat Bells, with Causey Pike at the rear. It was just what we needed, to get away for a bit and get some peace and quiet. I also got through my birthday under the radar! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dale Head - Waltz route</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I managed to nip out on the Sunday to recce the Anniversary Waltz fell race route. I loved the route and I've put an entry in for the race on 20th April. Hoping I'll be back in some sort of shape by then. It was great to be out in the mountains on my own, taking in the views and going at my own pace. There was still a dusting of snow on the tops but it wasn't cold. Shorts and helly were all that were needed.<br />
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I've been back to the club for the last two weeks and had some decent sessions. Still having a bit of jip on the longer runs though. Trying not to dwell on it! Stretching, strengthening, cycling, swimming should help too.....<br />
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<br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-80067782365187872042015-02-18T11:54:00.002-08:002015-02-18T11:54:58.689-08:00Laid bareIt is now 18th February. I had my OP on the 2nd February. Not pleasant and most definitely worse than I had anticipated. I had seen the consultant on Wednesday, 28th January to discuss my options after a period of rest and physio hadn't solve the problem. He decided he needed to intervene and perform the Inguinal ligament release procedure which would hopefully cure my Sportsman's groin. He also mentioned that "while i'm in there, I'll check for any weaknesses or hernia's and if there are I'll repair and reinforce the area".<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWKhVCldJY69EnFBdINGWawFzJL4wiWOmuyN2F8-hEt1KLnddOBWaGdRQXsfNINp3FEuteqLn514p6qW7hcmXgrMkgGspBDKg34neLrlSZphQJ_7He5Cb4NACcFNI-2M9v9v7v4h3PSIc/s1600/IMG_1105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWKhVCldJY69EnFBdINGWawFzJL4wiWOmuyN2F8-hEt1KLnddOBWaGdRQXsfNINp3FEuteqLn514p6qW7hcmXgrMkgGspBDKg34neLrlSZphQJ_7He5Cb4NACcFNI-2M9v9v7v4h3PSIc/s1600/IMG_1105.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recovery walk</td></tr>
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I arrived on the ward at 7:30am as requested. I was to be number three on the list. Not too bad, I thought. Should be done by lunchtime.... I was called at 12:15pm! When I came around it was approximately 3pm and I felt sick, very sore and wasn't entirely with it. It's difficult to describe the pain, like your core has been ripped out, stamped on and squashed back in. I spent a couple of hours on the ward to recover, having to be able to pee before I was allowed to be discharged. I left the hospital in a wheelchair at 6pm. The discharge letter stated bilateral inguinal hernia repair! The road to recovery began.<br />
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So, I had a week of doing nothing apart from hobble around the house. Every time I moved it was uncomfortable. Sleep was difficult, but every day was better than the previous one. Week two, plenty walking the dog and trying to be on my feet as much as possible, also some cycling. Week three, a couple of runs, slow ones. The ache is almost gone but will take time. Overall I do feel more flexible and hopeful that the op has done the job. We shall see.<br />
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Oh, I did manage to recce the Brough Law fell race route, not that I'll be doing it this year..<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_dBofY1cdGc-ugZMoUzHz_k16Q8z1hDn3Fck-euYlv3RylTdSQTDKgzbe50AR08R9H2w0SLzYSYiw8ED1p6H9vveaYib3JtvvWNWSeTMd8C5LVjmlwcQuE3DHt8fmsWD7Aw7K318ElHE/s1600/IMG_1129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_dBofY1cdGc-ugZMoUzHz_k16Q8z1hDn3Fck-euYlv3RylTdSQTDKgzbe50AR08R9H2w0SLzYSYiw8ED1p6H9vveaYib3JtvvWNWSeTMd8C5LVjmlwcQuE3DHt8fmsWD7Aw7K318ElHE/s1600/IMG_1129.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brough Law - top race</td></tr>
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<br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-56648434221195775422015-01-01T12:34:00.000-08:002015-01-01T12:34:40.749-08:00New Happy YearChristmas 2014 has been a quiet affair this especially as it has been running-free. Consultation following an MRI mid-December revealed my ongoing groin issues are down to Sportsman's groin aka Sports hernia (<a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00573" target="_blank">http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/</a>). Treatment for this is physical therapy and rest. Six weeks of rest! I'm already into week three and still have my finger nails so not doing too bad. I'm hoping that this period will sort out the problem and I can return to running in February.<br />
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I've spent some quality time with the family and had some nice long walks with our now one year old springer spaniel, Jasper. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRbYr8Lseywgc8TWVaOsJNiKEJDCnT4wjbrNvsU7eFjsVc0cTnB-WlMG0_obZHh1oqo3fhl9o5Vcv_WyFBO-Y31I-EfeJ4aOZ9nESjOszgVad4BE1MNoj_AHGNtf6ZW9ftS56928giuw/s1600/IMG_0969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRbYr8Lseywgc8TWVaOsJNiKEJDCnT4wjbrNvsU7eFjsVc0cTnB-WlMG0_obZHh1oqo3fhl9o5Vcv_WyFBO-Y31I-EfeJ4aOZ9nESjOszgVad4BE1MNoj_AHGNtf6ZW9ftS56928giuw/s1600/IMG_0969.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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I managed a bike ride today via spectating at the Morpeth 11k. Canny windy! It beats the turbo trainer which I find incredibly dull. <br />
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Happy New Year, let's hope it is a prosperous one.<br />
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<br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-27573235470839231762014-11-11T11:13:00.000-08:002014-11-11T11:13:23.420-08:00Derwentwater 10 and 2014 review<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, my racing year has come to a premature end with the ongoing hernia issues I’ve had since July. I’m hoping I will be sorted out before Christmas. Up until then I will be ticking over and enjoying some steady running.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My last race for 2014 was the Derwentwater 10, a week past Sunday. I’ve ran this race twice before and it’s a cracker with undulations all the way. I had a decent run, considering the inconsistent and interrupted training in the past few months. I finished in 14</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 9px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;">th</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> place with a time of 58:52 which clinched division 2 of the Morpeth Harriers grand prix. It wasn’t an easy course, but I’d rather run a difficult 10 miler in a great location than a flat one in a not so appealing place.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ve had a fantastic year, surpassing all of my expectations. I have achieved PB’s for 5k, 10k (NECAA silver medal), 10m. Other highlights I can reflect on are running in the National Cross Country Championships, the Yorkshire 3 peaks, representing the NECAA at the Inter Counties Fell championships, a great result at the Lakeland 50 and second place at the Chevy Chase. Also nabbing my first race win at the Thropton Show. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ve enjoyed the fells as always, and the challenge of the Lakeland 50 for the second time. The experience of supporting a friend on his Bob Graham success will be invaluable, what a day! Hoping to support on another attempt next summer.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed running fast on the road. There have been some great tussles with my harriers club mates. Specifically at the National XC, Blaydon, Blyth 10k and Wallsend 5k. You know who you are, Mr Straughan! Coach Waugh’s training plans are paying dividends for all in the group which is terrific to see.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ve bagged the NFR grand prix and been promoted to division one for Morpeth Harriers grand prix. I’m very pleased and proud of what I have done this year and shouldn’t feel </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">too</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> gutted at ending the year with injury, as frustrating as it is! Some consistent training in the New Year should get me back on track, all being well.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My targets for next year remain unknown, or at least I don’t want to jinx them by making them public. I do have some unfinished business at the Yorkshire 3 peaks (sub 3:30) and at Chevy. It isn’t long until the ballot opens again for the UTMB. If the TDS pops up as the only option, then I’m going to take it this time. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With regards to road running and cross country, I aim to make the National (Parliament Hill) and also improve my 5/10k PB’s.</span></div>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-fe5cad63-a041-b5ce-90d0-5df541b535ac"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I will be turning V40 too, feeling old already……is that Bob Graham at the door?.…. Scalpel!</span></span><br />
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<span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2910349564647651971.post-11447064809092919202014-09-28T12:33:00.002-07:002014-09-28T12:33:05.260-07:00Two Breweries hill race, 27th September 2014<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What a great idea. A race from one brewery to another over some beautiful Scottish Border countryside, on a cracking September day. I reiterate the word 'idea'. Doing it should be regarded as bonkers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was selected as one of the Northumberland Fell Runners championship races and was located in an area which I hadn't visited before. The hills were akin to the Cheviots. Rolling, grassy, heathery and deceptively gentle looking.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The drive up took a good two and a half hours. With little traffic on the roads, Emma Bain and I made good progress and arrived with plenty time to spare to get sorted and hop on the bus to transport us to the start at <span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Traquair</span><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"> house. It was a lovely setting complete with a marquee tent, it felt like we were gate crashing a wedding. We hung around for a while before the start having a chinwag, good crack with the NFR's. The kit check was rather regimental but good to see the rules being enforced.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">The first couple of miles were a chance to stretch the legs before the first climb up Birkscairn. The legs were heavy already, probably from last week's race at Thropton and no let up in training during the week. Stupid mistake. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EpA4IKB5gyMli0lM82dGjAoeGLiiK1M-hZzmBCvnJeCk-hlG2R20t7lJQk7GA2yIr_BdXFkBlYkCWZ32eqqxaOmj4yurzNY0qqEjeVkMMcEqqIQxtTSmdnoqgtxhdWuwbNacxP3BlyE/s1600/IMG_0732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EpA4IKB5gyMli0lM82dGjAoeGLiiK1M-hZzmBCvnJeCk-hlG2R20t7lJQk7GA2yIr_BdXFkBlYkCWZ32eqqxaOmj4yurzNY0qqEjeVkMMcEqqIQxtTSmdnoqgtxhdWuwbNacxP3BlyE/s1600/IMG_0732.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice hillage - Cheviot-esque</td></tr>
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The views were spectacular and I felt privile</span></span><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">ged to be running in such a place. The first descent to Glensax was a killer on the quads, seemed steeper than the descent off the Cheviot. My three week old blister reared its ugly head and began to irritate. The next two ascents and descents were a bit of a blur and by the time we reached to foot of Trahenna I was well and truly jiggered. I clawed my way up, literally! There were screams heard from runners ahead, I could sympathise if I wasn't in as much agony as them.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Last road section was quite nippy, although legs were like jelly. I managed to cross the line on 3:30. Emma Bain was the star of the day finishing in 3:34. She's in fine form and strong! I got the points needed to secure the NFR champs so I'm well pleased. Time to ease off the gas before the British Fell relays, feeling goosed.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">The catering was top notch at the village hall. Soup, salad, cakes and all the beer you could want! Good crack with JT, Paul et al. Also with the men's V70 winner, legend! There were some saying it was tougher than Borrowdale, I'd probably agree with that. Having a climb so steep just two miles from the finish is cruel.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">A brutal race but in a lovely place. It really did kick my arse. I will return.... one year! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Well done to all NFR!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fLJU3ZuIS0R3H-2bhchlvYP_WIxwTIuCforXIFGiMya7waHjLcIozrUZnAjlf9lOvejAJ71jVtF2d8Cw6HBoP1uDSmSSvyMT-GJSImKEKvnaL3gNzuqic5hCvzaZ9QbeC-oo7pC2b0E/s1600/IMG_0720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fLJU3ZuIS0R3H-2bhchlvYP_WIxwTIuCforXIFGiMya7waHjLcIozrUZnAjlf9lOvejAJ71jVtF2d8Cw6HBoP1uDSmSSvyMT-GJSImKEKvnaL3gNzuqic5hCvzaZ9QbeC-oo7pC2b0E/s1600/IMG_0720.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team NFR</td></tr>
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<br />Fellrunner1975http://www.blogger.com/profile/05567165506677608762noreply@blogger.com0