What do we get up to!

Haworth Hobble

Pure, bracing ventilation they must have up there at all times, indeed; one may guess the power of the north wind blowing over the edge, by the excessive slant of a few stunted firs at the end of the house; and by a range of gaunt thorns all stretching their limbs one way, as if craving alms of the sun.

Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte

Photo courtesy of Woodentops

So I was back in Bronte Country for the Haworth Hobble, this was my third year in succession as it’s such a great event. The 32 mile course is a hilly one with 4400 feet of ascent but is very runnable and enjoyable. I’m not particularly familiar with the area so always seem to struggle with visualising and piecing together the route from one year to the next. Certain bits stick and others don’t, which is a little frustrating so I don’t recommend that you follow me! Entry is either as a team or as a solo runner. This year, Darren and I had decided to enter as a team, so ran together all the way round.

The race starts on the steep, cobbled high street in Haworth and heads out across Haworth Moor crossing Bronte bridge before winding its way up to the infamous Top Withins at 1400 feet above sea level. It always feels a lot higher than it really is here and the beautifully bleak, remote moorland was no exception today. The easterly winds were quite biting and the remains of snow lay on the ground from the previous day.

Top Withins

We picked up the Pennine Way and descended on the flagstones, which brought back memories from the last time I was here on the Spine Challenger two months previously, going in the opposite direction on that dark, January night. It was even colder then!

I had chosen to run in my Inov8 Trailroc running shoes but the route was a lot muddier than on previous occasions from the the rain we’d had over the past couple of days. I found the trainers didn’t have much grip in the mud so I kept slipping and sliding but they made up for it on the numerous tracks and trails.

We ran past several reservoirs and joined the Mary Townley Loop of the Pennine Way, familiar from the Spine Training weekend in 2013. The route headed along a short stretch of road known as The Long Causeway past a large expanding wind farm and eventually picked up the Calderdale Way. We descended into the valley on the outskirts of Todmorden before immediately climbing back out of the valley steeply on the other side and making our way across a number of fields before arriving at the checkpoint at Mankinholes. I had a cup of perfectly temperate tea and a hot cross bun but sadly no wee dram of single malt as it had all been drank!

Onwards and upwards, one of the highlights of the day is the steep climb towards the summit of Stoodley Pike at 1300 feet. The summit is topped with an impressive 121 foot tall monument, which was completed in 1856 to commemorate Napoleons defeat. From here the route picks up the Pennine Way again, for a fast descent across boggy moorland, before joining a woodland path and descending steeply into Hebden Bridge.

Stoodley Pike Monument

A little ginnel leads directly out of the town up some steep steps to join the road and continues to climb up to the quaint village of Heptonstall before a descent on a track leads through woodland to the checkpoint at the Blue Ball pub at Hardcastle Crags.

A long climb on a lumpy, bumpy track ensued past a couple of derelict buildings. I reflected back on the blizzard conditions we encountered previously at this point a couple of years back. Luckily today it had stayed dry.

After the last checkpoint, it was a steep climb on the road to Top O’t Stairs and back onto a stony track. Towards the bottom of the track, I took a tumble. My forearm and thigh taking the majority of the impact. I quickly got back on my feet and dusted myself down. It was a good job I was wearing a long sleeve top and gloves, which prevented severe grazing from the fall. Darren checked I was ok before we determindly continued on our way towards the finish.

Near Penistone Hill, Darren suddenly realised that we could beat our team time from two years ago so picked up the pace as we ran towards the village. I struggled to keep up with him as he found his second wind and we must have overtaken at least 10 other runners at this point. Eventually, we ran through the churchyard where the Bronte family are interred and through the gates onto the high street, it was only a short sprint to the finish now. Darren ran in to register our time and was nicely surprised that we were 7 minutes faster than in 2013, yay! A cup of tea and a nice bowl of pasta awaited us in the school.

Thanks to all Keighley and Craven AC and their supporters for putting on a great event again.

Rapidly, merrily,

Life’s sunny hours flit by,

Gratefully, cheerily

Enjoy them as they fly!

Charlotte Bronte

Spine Challenger: Kit list and things…

Darren What do we get up to!

Thoughts on my pre-race gear preparation and kit used…..what worked and what didn’t…

There’s the well known adage used by the military referred to as the 7Ps which stands for Proper Planning and Preparation Prevents P**s Poor Performance.The planning for this race was like a military operation with the testing and organisation of kit, food, maps and recceing of the route.

Organising my gear

My drop-bag

I gathered all my gear in a heap on the bedroom floor before organising it into associated piles.

I carried a spare sleeping bag in my drop bag so that I didn’t have to unpack and repack the one in my rucksack at CP1.

I used the little drawstring bags that you collect from races to organise my drop bag so there was less faffing at CP1. This made everything easy to locate and nothing was forgotten. Each bag was labelled with their content:

Clothes for travelling home.

Wash kit & towel

Spare food

Complete change of clothes plus batteries and handwarmers for changing over at CP1.

Spare clothes (including my old pair of waterproof overtrousers just in case I damaged mine and OMM Kamleika Smock)

Flip flops (for wearing at CP1 and Hawes)

Spare trainers (just in case!)

Shoes for travelling home

I made myself a checklist of things to do at the CP1 as a reminder just in case I had brain fog!

Change into warm dry clothes

Take contact lens out

Eat evening meal

Change headtorch batteries

Check Garmin battery (change if required)

Restock food and water

Restock clothes to be carried (if required)

Get rucksack ready to go

Set alarm

Sleep

Eat

Wash

All organised and ready to go

My rucksack

I carried the OMM Adventure light 20 litre rucksack with the OMM chest pouch.

Gear carried in my rucksack at the start:

Alpkit titanium mug

The fork end of a spork (well it got snapped but then was a perfect size to fit inside the mug!)

Waterproof matches

Coleman lightweight stove (spork, matches & stove were all packed inside the mug which also doubled up as the pan for the stove)

Coleman gas

Vango Venom 300 down sleeping bag, 828g (pre-packed inside bivi bag as this saves faffing and keeps the sleeping bag clean and dry if you need to get it out in an emergency)

Mountain Equipment Ion bivi bag

Adidas running tights

Helly Hanson Lifa base layer (worn from Horton)

Spare Running Bear socks (used from Malham)

North Face lightweight Fleece pullover (worn from M62)

Saloman Bonatti waterproof overtrousers (worn from M62)

Rab Generator Primaloft Jacket (worn but I can’t remember when I put it on!)

Kahtoola micro spikes

Quechua water bladder (With berry flavour High Five tabs as I don’t find water refreshing)

Trekmates dried pasta meal

Variety of gluten free bars (trek bars, 9bars, Eat natural bars)

Trail mix

Baby bel cheeses

Gluten free blueberry and chocolate brownie (my special treat and yes, it was delicious!)

Plastic bottle (concertina-ed variety, empty, lightweight and carried in mesh side pocket for quick access in case bladder burst or I had difficulties re-filling)

Mountain King Trail Blaze trekking poles (tucked in the mesh pocket on the side of my rucksack and secured at the top with prusik cord).

Top pocket:

Sunglasses

First aid kit (easily accessible in emergencies)

See below for Chest Pouch contents

I weighed my fully packed rucksack including water before the start and it weighed 6.5kg. It obviously got lighter during the race as I wore extra layers and consumed my food/water.

Gear worn

Feet:

Running Bear woollen socks

Inov8 debris gaitor

Inov8 Roclite boots

Clothes worn from Edale to Hebden Bridge:

Ron Hill thermal tights

More Mile Vancouver plus thermal base layer

Rab Sawtooth softshell jacket

Mountain Equipement goretex pro jacket (put on about a minute before the start!

Saloman waterproof overtrousers (put on at M62

Inov8 neck gaitor

Lowe Alpine powerstretch hat

Wickable underwear

North Face lightweight fleece pullover (put on at M62)

Outdoor Designs Powerstretch gloves (got wet and changed to Sealskinz early on

Sealskinz waterproof gloves (handwarmers added at M62).

Clothes worn from Hebden Bridge to Hawes:

Skins A200 thermal tights

Ron Hill thermal base layer

North Face lightweight fleece pullover

Helly Hanson Lifa base layer (added underneath my other base layer at Horton)

Saloman Bonatti waterproof overtrouser

Rab Generator primaloft jacket (can’t remember where I put it on!)

Buff thermal fleecy buff

Lowe Alpine powerstretch hat

Wickable underwear

Sealskinz gloves

Extremities primaloft mittens

Rab Sawtooth Softshell jacket

Mountain Equipment goretex pro jacket

So…what worked…..?

OMM Trio Map pouch

This takes a bit of getting used to when you first use it to ensure the tension is right otherwise it bounces around and hits you in the belly. The clips are not great to undo particularly if you have cold hands but other than that this is a really useful item of kit where you can store everything you need close to hand. I kept my phone (a cheap Nokia one that keeps it’s charge for a week!), GPS (I used Garmin Etrex 20) a stash of food (mini gluten free sandwiches filled with hummus and a couple of bars), two energy gels, spare gloves, a tiny Swiss Army knife and money/credit card in here. My compass (Silva Expedition 4) was kept separately in my waist belt pocket as it shouldn’t be stored close to a mobile or GPS (or any other metallic object for that matter) as it can affect the polarity.

Inov8 Roclite 268 goretex boots

After some research, I opted for these running boots as I get cold feet when I am not travelling very fast and I found them to be great. The grip was good on the slabs and rock and although not as effective in the mud they were still ok. More importantly they did keep my feet warm, I wasn’t expecting them to keep my feet dry but on the whole they stopped the cold water from coming in from the shallow puddles. I did have to wade several rivers that went over my boots and I’d read that once the water gets into goretex shoes there is nowhere for it to escape. To be honest, I never felt I had a problem with this and my feet didn’t feel squelchy at all. My feet were in good condition when I finished with one tiny blister on my little toe and they weren’t wrinkly from constantly getting wet. I did have hotspots at CP1 where my little toes on both feet had rubbed against my next toe but the medics wrapped tape around them and I never felt any discomfort after this. Perhaps I should try injinji socks to keep my toes separate in future. My feet were slightly tender under my heels when I finished and maybe this was because the boots only have a 6mm drop. I’ve ran a number of other long races in Inov8 shoes, Trailroc and X-talons with the 6mm drop and not found this a problem but then again I was out significantly longer this time and it was over 30 miles further than I’d ever ran before!

Mountain Equipment Goretex jacket

I was all set to carry my OMM Kamleika jacket until the morning of the race when I checked the weather reports and decided to switch to my goretex jacket. I’m so glad I did! It is a more robust, thicker fabric albeit slightly heavier, although the pack size isn’t that much different but it has increased breathability and waterproofness so I found it suited me better in the inclement weather.

Mountain King Trail Blaze trekking poles

The first race I used my poles on was the CCC last year (read my earlier tongue-in-cheek article about pole etiquette). I would have been black and blue if I hadn’t used my poles on the Challenger as I’m sure I would have been blown over or slipped in the mud significantly more times as they saved me from hitting the deck on numerous occasions.

And….what could be improved…?

Head Torch

I had no problems with the torch per se, it was the strap that was an issue. I used a Led Lenser SE07R, which slipped down a few times, once rather annoyingly as we were descending from the summit of Fountains Fell in treacherous conditions. I’ll look at getting a new overhead strap as mine kept loosening itself.

I prefer to wear my headtorch underneath my hood so as to keep the battery warm but the brim of my hood kept slipping over it and obscuring the light so I wore it over my hood eventually.

I used the rechargeable battery pack to CP1 then changed to lithium batteries here even though the battery pack had not ran out as I didn’t want to change batteries partway through the night. The SEO7R is interchangeable between the rechargeable battery pack and standard batteries. I use lithium batteries rather than alkaline as they are lighter, last longer and still function in cold conditions.

I used my torch on the dim setting as I knew the battery life lasts all night on this setting and still provides perfectly adequate light for running. I tend to switch it to bright if I’m looking for a particular feature in the dark.

I carried a Petzl tikka headtorch as a backup in case my batteries ran out because changing them over in the pitch black is a nightmare!

Maps

I used the Harvey’s waterproof maps, which I found to be perfectly adequate for navigating and compact enough so as not to be obtrusive. I carried it in my hand when recceing, however, I didn’t bank on the extreme weather conditions. I was afraid that my map would have got blown out of my hand by the wind or disintegrated in the rain (I haven’t put the maps to the test on how long they would last being battered by heavy rain and gales over a long duration). However, my running buddy Sarah seemed to have an effective solution. She cut the Harvey’s map down into the independent sections and laminated these. They were then small enough to fit into the map pocket on the OMM front pouch.

Gloves

I suffer from Raynard’s so keeping my hands warm can be a problem. I didn’t quite get it right with my gloves and did get cold hands on several occasions. I initially wore powerstretch gloves to begin with which kept my hands warm but then they got saturated from the rain. I swapped to my Sealskinz waterproof gloves, with the cuffs tucked tightly under my jacket and these kept my hands dry but on occasions my fingers still got cold so I tucked a handwarmer into my gloves at the M62 to CP1 and then again at Malham Tarn to the finish. At Malham Tarn I put my primaloft mits over my Sealskinz and my hands were completely toasty after this but the bulk of the mittens made it difficult to grip my poles.

Sleeping mat.

My sleeping system was only designed for emergencies. I had no plans to bivi outside. However, I did end up camping at Malham Tarn and Sarah kindly let me share her tent. I used the foam padding from my rucksack to lie on and although this protected my core from the cold ground, my legs got cold as I had no insulation underneath.

Glasses

Rather than clear glasses or goggles, I took sun glasses and although I didn’t have any problems with the wind affecting my eyes, a lot of people did. One poor chap had to be pulled from the race by the medics because of an eye problem. So, I intend to purchase some clear wrap around glasses to protect my eyes in the future. I did carry spare contact lens in my first aid kit. After the impromptu stop-over at Malham Tarn I lost a lens so needed to replace one.

And finally, I got frost nip on my nose from the wind chill so….

I must remember to put Vaseline on my nose to act as a barrier from the cold weather in the future!!

The Spine Challenger

Darren BLOG, Running, Spine Race, What do we get up to! Adeventurethatis life, adventure, Challenge, peak district, Pennine Way, Spine Challenger, Spine Race, trail running, Ultra marathon, ultra running, Yorkshire Dales

The Spine Race is billed as the most brutal race in Britain and the Challenger is the ‘shorter’ version at 108 miles. It’s run along the Pennine Way in the middle of winter. I’d first heard of it in 2013 and had been drawn to the event and had entered last year with Darren but we had to retire close to Thornton. This year, I’d be running alone as Darren was part of the Mountain Safety Team so as part of my strategy, I’d spent some time recceing the route and working out my kit to maximise my chance of success.

The Challenger started in the dark at 6.30am on Saturday morning. The atmosphere was convivial with runners chatting away before the start taking their minds off the journey ahead. In typical Spine style the weather changed from dry at our arrival in Edale to heavy rain at the start. Once underway and across the fields to Upper Booth, torrential rain turned to hail and with the strong winds blowing it horizontally into our faces it was painful and difficult to see. Great!

We climbed Jacob’s Ladder towards the Kinder plateau and I was struggling to stay on my feet as the gusts of wind were so strong. At one point, I was blown completely off the paved path and into a knee deep bog at the side. Let the battle commence, I thought, it will take more than that to beat me! Onwards towards Kinder Downfall or should I say Upfall, I got drenched by the waterfall blowing back up. Having to cross the stream, I thought it was time to take out my trekking poles as a safety precaution as the stream was quite deep and fast flowing and I didn’t want to lose my footing.

Onwards I went across Bleaklow dropping down to Torside Reservoir. At this point we had a little respite from the wind (little did I know this would be the only sheltered patch during the day) as we continued through the trees and up the valley before climbing up towards Black Hill. This seemed to take forever as we followed the river initially then having to make crossing after crossing as the river snaked around, I was glad of my trekking poles as it was knee deep at times. Onto the paving slabs, I was able to get a steady pace going. I was spotted by Darren’s mate, Gavin, who had kindly driven out to meet me, to give some friendly encouragement and support.

‘If Bleaklow is a beast in bad weather Black Hill is a brute in any weather’

Alfred Wainwright

The little bit of road section at Wessenden was menacing. I got blown into the middle of the road just as a silver sports car was trying to overtake! A quick stop at the roadside checkpoint where the friendly faces of Ally and Paul greeted me and I headed down past the reservoirs where I was able to run again.

From here the route climbed out of the valley over Wessenden Moor and crossed the road to head over Standedge. The light began to fade as I headed across the moors towards the M62 and by the time I passed the trig point at White Hill it was completely dark. Two guys were cheering me on as I made my way past. I asked them if there were any cars at the next road crossing as I was getting a little cold and felt I needed to add another layer. I thought I would cheekily ask to sit in a car out of the wind so that I could put my fleece on. As it turns out there was a number of supporters cars and a camper van around so I asked a lady also called Claire who was supporting her husband and she kindly let me sit in her camper van. I was soon on my way again, over the M62 bridge feeling a lot warmer and over Blackstone Edge. This section to the White House pub I hadn’t recced so I was a little apprehensive as there was snow on the ground and the path was a little uneasy to follow through the jumble of rocks.

Just before the White House pub I missed the track down to the road and ended up jumping over the fence. Here Paweł and the other lead runners of the Spine Race overtook me. They were certainly going at some pace. I checked in with the Marshalls and was offered a delicious cake, which I ate as I jogged down beside the reservoir.

Around the top of the reservoirs, Peter and Sarah caught me up. We started to chat and I was glad of the conversation as we headed towards the shadowy monument of Stoodley Pike. Little did I know that I would spend the rest of my race with Peter and Sarah for company…and what a great team we made, supporting each other through the bad patches and boosting each other’s morale.

We arrived at CP1 just outside Hebden Bridge at 11.20pm, I had planned to stay here for 4 hours and we agreed to leave around 3am. It was a nice surprise to be greeted by my friend, David, whose enthusiast smile made us feel very welcome. He checked us in and carried our drop bags upstairs for us. As part of my preparations, I had made myself a checklist of things to do incase brain fog kicked in. I got my rucksack ready to go, ate some of the amazing veggie chilli that was on offer and then went to bed for a couple of hours. I don’t remember whether I got any sleep but I was certainly thankful for the rest and as I lay there all I could feel my face glowing from the wind! I got up at 2.15am and ordered some porridge for breakfast. I had a couple of hot spots on both of my little toes and had these taped by the medics so that they wouldn’t get any worse…then we were out and on our way again.

The next section was relatively straight forward as I’d recced it in November so it passed in a bit of a blur. We then headed around some reservoirs and started the long climb up to Withans Height. I was beginning to get a little cold as the wind was biting. I knew there was a bothy at Top Withan’s, where Emily Bronte had famously set her novel Wuthering Heights and at this point all that was going around in my mind was the song by Kate Bush! We found the bothy but dissappointingly it was locked. Hmm, no shelter there then!

Out on the wiley, windy moors,

We’d roll and fall in green.

Kate Bush

We continued to push onwards and I warmed up. It started to get light just as we approached Ponden. There were several supporters cars dotted on the roads around here so it was nice to get some encouagement from them with offers of food and water.

Over Cowling Moor (or, as Darren and I had delightfully named it poo path, after having to step over some human excrement in the middle of the slabs last year, yuk!). I was glad it was light as I crossed this year but felt disheartened as it was bleak, featureless and boggy. Then Sarah was greeted by her mate Kate, who’d ran up to meet her unexpectedly. As we descended into Cowling, Kate had parked her camper van at the side of the road and invited us in for tea and some lovely leek and potato soup. What a star! Replenished and back in good spirits, after Sarah and Peter had fixed their feet, we were on our way again heading across the muddy fields towards Lothersdale.

The climb up over Pinhaw was again very windy. There was no time to stop and admire the normally fantastic views as we headed towards the road crossing where we were met by a Marshall who took our numbers and wished us on our way. This was where Darren and I had retired last year at 2am, cold and wet because we were going slow as Darren had twisted his knee. It was a psychological boost to go past this particular milestone in the race and to head down the hill towards Thornton in Craven.

Onwards towards Gargrave, I went through a bad patch just as we pulled off the canal. Feeling tired, I felt low but fortunately, Sarah’s family were waiting in their camper van to greet us and we jumped in to shelter. Sarah’s husband made us hot chocolate and gave us crisps and a pasty, which was fantastic and made me feel better.

On our way again, we stopped in Gargrave to use the toilet facilities and also the Co-op shop to buy some supplies which we ate in the shelter before setting off again. It was now dusk and none of us were familiar with this section heading along the river to Malham…and oh my, what a section it was…lots of fields and lots of mud! At one point, we were accosted by some ponies in the dark, who were so inquisitive they wouldn’t leave us alone and allow us to get past. A little nervous we stuck together and eventually they got bored and let us through.

On arrival in Malham, we headed into the pub and had a cup of tea. The friendly locals were amazed at what we were doing whilst also thinking we were mad. Soon on our way again, we headed up towards Malham Cove. Sarah was familiar with this area and competantly navigated our way around the cove, through the karst landscape, which looked incredible in the torch light as it caught sight of the cliffs and the limestone pavement. I was toasty here with the ascent but as soon as we reached the road, it was to be a different matter as we skirted around the edge of the tarn to reach Checkpoint 1.5 at the Research Centre. The lights of the centre didn’t seem to get any closer as we were buffeted and blasted by the winds with the waves lashing at the shore of the tarn.

By the time we got to the Centre, I was cold and shivery and it was nice to be greeted by John who provided us with a cup of hot tea. Thankfully it didn’t take me long to warm up. My original plans were to only spend an hour here and make myself some hot food before carrying on. However, because of the atrocious weather conditions all of my best laid plans had gone out of the window. It was more important to stay warm and safe and to get to the end rather than worry about a particular time.

We decided we would get some rest here but there was no indoor sleeping available so although I had my bivi bag, Sarah kindly agreed to let me share her tent, which was fun putting it up in the gales. We had two hours rest but I didnt sleep well as I only had my rucksack padding as my sleeping mat which protected my core but my legs got cold. We surfaced at 2am, and went back into the centre. I was faffing about getting myself ready and I couldn’t find one of my leg gaiters eventually settling to go without it only to find it around my ankle anyway! Oh what sleep deprivation does to the mind!

The climb up Fountains Fell was navigationally straightforward but the heavy driving rain and winds were horrendous. With the dark and my head down, it was difficult to estimate how far we had got left to climb particularly when you couldn’t see the numerous cairns on the summit to see what you were aiming for. All of a sudden we were at the wall and I gave a little squeal of joy to be at the summit only to realise that now the fun was about to begin as we got the full force of the rain and the gale force winds on the descent, which was tricky at the best of times.

Downwards we went and it was so dark, I didn’t even see the road until we were almost upon it. Peter was starting to get cold and earlier on, I’d heard two guys talking about a barn at the side, which we kept a look out for. We found it and dived in to get some shelter, where we were able to sort ourselves out before facing the wind and rain again.

At the right hand turn off the road to head up to Pen y Ghent, the Mountain Safety Team were waiting in their 4×4. We chatted to them briefly and were told that for safety reasons the route had been changed and we weren’t going over the summit of Pen y Ghent as the appalling weather conditions would make it too dangerous. We were offered some sweets but because I was wearing big mittens, I couldn’t feel anything so Robin ended up feeding them to me. Talk about eating out of his hand!

Heading upwards towards Pen y Ghent, It was very cold and the rain showed no sign of letting up. We were low so what do you do? Burst into song of course…Always Look on the Bright Side of Life…can you imagine it? 3 crazy people in the middle of the night singing! It did the job though, I had a spring in my step all the way to the gate in the wall on the shoulder of Pen y Ghent. It was here, indicated with glow-sticks that this would be where we were short-routed down to Horton for safety. A comedy moment ensued as Peter put all his effort into opening the gate which was held firmly shut with the incredibly strong winds. It was that strong that I wasn’t even able step through it as I was literally being forced back by the blast. Peter gave us a helping hand by pulling both Sarah and myself through. Never, I have I come across winds so strong that you can’t move forward, scary!

The descent down to Horton was a struggle with the driving rain lashing at my face. The path crossed through some small limestone outcrops which in the rain and the wind were treacherously slippy to scramble down. Nevertheless, we soon arrived and what more of a welcome sight was the glowing sign of the open cafe. 3 cheers to the owner who’d agreed to open up all night for us racers!

It was 7.45am when we arrived and we learnt that many of the runners had been held back here since the early hours by the MST because of the bad weather. We briefly tried to dry some of our kit out over the heater whilst drinking tea, and eating a delightful bowl of red pepper soup rounded off with a mug of hot chocolate. I put my Helly Hanson Lifa base layer on underneath my thermal base layer, over that I put my thin fleece, then my primaloft jacket (which was now damp from the ingress of the rain), my windproof jacket followed by my goretex waterproof jacket. Wow, 6 layers…yes, I know I’m nesh but I feel the cold!

‘There’s no such thing as bad weather only inappopriate clothing’

Sir Ranulph Fiennes

Back out into the cold again and onto the last leg now. It felt good to have warmed up and dried out a little and to still have strength in my legs to continue. Having never been this far before, I was quietly confident that I was going to make it.

We headed up towards the Cam Road, an old Roman track, that seemed to go on forever as it steadily climbed towards Dodd Fell. It was still incredibly windy as it was so open and exposed. The back drop of Ingleborough, Whernside and the Ribblehead Viaduct was amazing. I felt my eyes getting heavy and sleepy and I pondered whether I should have a caffeine energy gel to make me more alert and then as we rounded the corner under Dodd Fell we had another battle on our hands with the wind. Just as we thought we were getting close to the end, the weather gods had come to give us a final beating! I was buffeted and blown about by the winds that were amongst the strongest we’d experienced so far. I was digging my trekking poles so hard into the ground and really fighting to maintain my balance. I was trying to stay positive, well at least it’s not raining now I told myself! Suddenly I realised with the concerted effort I was no longer tired!

As we descended towards Hawes the weather improved slightly. It was nice to be met by Darren who had run up from the finish to greet me. He guided us back through the complex network of paths to arrive in the centre of Hawes and videoed us as we went into the finish in the Market Hall, where we were applauded upon our arrival. Wow, it felt so good to have arrived and I was chuffed to have made it. As it happens, Sarah and and I finished joint second ladies.

Thank you to Darren and everyone who provided wonderful encouragement and support throughout my Pennine Journey and in particular to Sarah and Peter who I buddied up with along the way and who helped me to stay focused and get to the end.

‘Mostly it rained – pouring rain, driving rain, rain that came down like stair-rods.’ Alfred Wainwright, Pennine Way Companion

Tour de Helvellyn

Darren What do we get up to!

The Tour de Helvellyn is approximately 38 miles and is held on the last Saturday before Christmas. It starts from the village hall and outdoor swimming pool (!) at Askam then makes its way over Askam Fell before descending to the hamlett of Martindale. From here the route follows the Boredale valley then climbs to Boredale Hause and drops steeply to the checkpoint at Side Farm in Patterdale. A flat run along the farm track to the road, it then follows the main road to Glenridding before ascending to Greenside past Helvellyn YHA and climbing up Sticks Pass to immediately descend down to Legburgthwaite.

This year, the route took an alternative course because of the tree felling in the Forestry Commission plantation at Wythburn so instead of traversing across the fell above the A591 and through the plantation to Dunmail, it crossed over the road and went down the minor road alongside the edge of Thirlmere Reservoir and took a path at Steel End to reach Dunmail Raise. Here it crossed back over the A591 before ascending the rocky path beside the stream to Grizedale Tarn. The route followed the edge of the Tarn, then had a technical descent down into Grizedale past a bothy to a wooden bridge where upon a track and road was gained back to Patterdale. From here the route retraced its steps back to Askam.

For me, I had unfinished business to contend with. Last year I set off early and made a big school boy error with my navigation in the dark over Askam Fell and went off route. My heart wasn’t in the race so when I realised my mistake, I made my way back to the village hall and retired. Luckily for me I saved myself a drenching as it was wet and windy for the most part. I made myself useful at the hall and spent the rest of the day helping out buttering bread and washing dishes! …I was determined that wasn’t going to happen this time though!!

I made sure I knew beforehand where I was going. I’d ran across the fell in the mass start on the Lakes 42 race in April. It really wasn’t that difficult to navigate over but could be confusing in the dark with lots of paths sprinkled across the moor many of which weren’t marked on the map. With no mass start on the Tour de Helvellyn everyone is left to start at their own time between 7am and 9am. I decided to start a little later this year at just after 7.30am. I had no problems with the navigation only looking at my map once in the entire race to check where the path down to road branched off before Martindale as I knew this was a slightly quicker route than sticking with the main path.

The climb up to the very summit of Sticks Pass was extremely windy and I struggled to move forward the wind was that strong. I felt the gusts could have blown me off my feet at any time so progress was slow here. Thankfully, it wasn’t too long before we dropped out of the strong winds so I could pick up my pace and aim for the village hall at the bottom. This was a new indoor checkpoint this year with the change to the route. It was particularly welcome as I could grab a bite to eat and a drink in the warmth and even use the toilet facilities before setting off again.

The weather had given out heavy winds and showers so rather than wear my OMM Kamleika smock I had decided to wear my Mountain Equipment Goretex Jacket to see how it performed on a run. I only wore a Ron Hill base layer underneath my jacket and I was pleased with its performance even running alongside Thirlmere, where it was sheltered and warmer, I pushed my sleeves up but the goretex fabric worked well in terms of its breathability and was much better than the Kamleika.

The weather was clear all day so thankfully it was easy to navigate around Grizedale Tarn. I’ve been up here on numerous occasions previously and not been able to see the Tarn because of the thick clag.

On my return, Darren was waiting at Side Farm taking photographs of the runners as they went past into the checkpoint. I didn’t realise it was him behind the lens at first. A quick cup of tea and a few peanuts and I headed out again from the checkpoint.

The return over Boredale Hause went relatively quickly followed by the rocky descent on the other side into the valley. The light was fading as I headed past the checkpoint at Martindale Church, again I opted for the road section. On a muddy path, a guy who was running in front slipped then got back onto his feet then only a few seconds later my feet went from under me too. “My turn” I jested as I quickly got back onto my feet no worse for wear apart from a muddy leg.

The climb up from Martindale up to Askham Fell seemed to take for ever. It was deceptive and I didn’t remember it being so steep when I ran out this way earlier in the day. I knew I was tiring and had to pay attention to where I was going as the light was fading, I didn’t want to make any mistakes now. The lights of Penrith and surrounding villages could be seen from the path. This is always a favourite of mine when running at night in the mountains. It’s mesmerising being able to look down on the twinkling lights of the towns and villages below.

Before long, I arrived at the Cockpit stone circle and knew we branched off from the main path at this point and headed towards the plantation, which in the complete darkness now its shadows could just about be picked out. From here the path descended alongside a wall. It was extremely dark now other than one or two other runners headtorches in the distance. I thought the lights of Askam village would be able to guide me back to the finish but it was longer than I thought before you could spot the lights. It was easy terrain gently downhill through the last few fields then back on to the track and into the village. My tummy was rumbling and all I could think of was getting to the finish and to the welcome sight of Joe’s famous soup in the village hall.

Thanks to the Team at Nav4 for organising a great event.

Kit worn:

Inov8 roclite GTX boots

Inov8 debris gaitor

Running bear woollen socks

Skins A200 Thermal tights

Ron Hill Thermal base layer

Primaloft gloves

Mountain Equipment Gortex pro Jacket

Inov8 buff

Carried in a 10 litre Quechua running rucksack:

Sol emergency bivi

Rab primaloft jacket

North Face lightweight fleece

Saloman lightweight waterproof overtrousers

Map

Compass

Small first aid kit

Food

Drinks bladder

Led Lenser SR7 headtorch (used)

Petzl tikka headtorch (backup rather than carrying spare batteries)

Pole Etiquette

Darren What do we get up to!

Let me explain a little bit more about the meaning of my title above. By pole, (small ‘p’) I mean trekking pole! I’m not referring to a nationality of Europeans who have a red and white flag!

Etiquette according to the Oxford dictionary is described as:

The customary code of polite behaviour in society or among members of a particular profession or group. Noun.

Synonyms: protocol, polite behaviour, good manners, manners, acceptable behaviour, accepted behaviour, proper behaviour, code of behaviour, rules of conduct/behaviour.

The word etiquette originates from the French language (so we stole it!), which I thought was apt as my recent experience of using poles relates to the running of The North Face UTMB CCC race in France.

The use of trekking poles is a phenomena that has taken the ultra trail running community in Europe by storm. Their usage in the UK, however, is still a little frowned upon by some runners. Nonetheless, the popularity of using ‘cheat sticks’ as they are sometimes referred to, is on the increase, particularly on the longer ultra races in the mountainous regions.

The CCC race was the first time that I’d used trekking poles in a race. I bought a pair of the lightweight Mountain King Trail Blaze poles in a lovely girly magenta colour perfectly co-ordinating with my trainers! I must admit I was sceptical at first about using poles but with some of the huge ascents in the CCC, they really did prove their worth.

During the race, I saw poles used in a variety of ways along the course of the route so from my own empirical findings, I thought I’d put together my own lighthearted and tongue-in-cheek account of the variety of methods, techniques and styles that were displayed:

The Skier. Leans slightly forward and uses the poles to launch themselves forward pushing both poles out in tandem behind themselves.

The Flicker. The runner flicks their poles out wildly behind them therefore you have to maintain at least a three foot gap otherwise you’ll be inadvertently poked or prodded.

The Nordic Walker. A sensible and efficient approach, which many runners fail to remember during the course of a race. The poles are tucked in close at the runner’s sides and used effectively to propel the runner forward as they move along.

The Elbows Out. This runner thinks they own the path and they stick their elbows and their poles out at the sides to form a triangular shape taking up the whole width of the path ready to trip you up.

The Jabber. The runner carries the poles at an angle across their body or horizontal to the floor then with a swift motion catch or jab other runners in the kidneys or thigh as you try to overtake. I have a nice bruise on my leg as a result of this one!

The Irritator. This runner is multi-tasking, maybe faffing in their rucksack or with an item of clothing with the poles dangling from their wrists whilst letting the poles flail around, again ready to catch your ankles or to trip you up.

The Tapper. The runners that really feel the need to use the poles on any tarmac sections of the course so that they make an irritating metallic tapping noise.

The Underarm Approach. Runners who carry their poles under their arm like an umbrella and have no spacial awareness around themselves so that they swipe everybody in their mist as they turn around. An alternative to this is the runner who carries them in their hand at the same angle.

Of course, I’m not guilty of any of these apart from the Nordic walker approach (yeah right!) …but seriously, please let’s be sensible and safe when using your poles, guys. Have an awareness of others around you, practice your technique and it may well save many-a frustration from your fellow runners around you.

High Peak 40

Darren What do we get up to!

I entered the High Peak 40 as I felt I had recovered well after the CCC and there were several others from Mow Cop Runners who had entered so I thought, why not. The race headquarters was at the Community School in Buxton only 5 minutes from home so I felt compelled to run it with being local now and I wanted to experience and support this longstanding event.

The start was on Broadwalk on the edge of the Pavilion Gardens and home to Buxton AC’s monthly 5km Parkrun. There were a lot of friends and ultra running acquaintances in the race so it was good to catch up and chat to everyone about their recent adventures far and wide.

The start on Broadwalk

After a quick briefing and count down, we were off. Setting off through the park and winding our way out of Buxton, up and over Burbage joining the disused railway line to the first checkpoint. We then had a fast descent down Bunsall incline, a road now but originally it was an old tramway, and dropped down to Fernilee Reservoir. The route skirted alongside the reservoir heading towards checkpoint two at Taxal layby. No glowing green eyed skull to greet us this time like in the DusktilDawn race but then again it wasn’t in the middle of the night this time! I had a quick drink at the checkpoint and then crossed the road and up the hill heading in the direction of Eccles Pike.

We ascended several fields and popped out on the steep country lane that again was familiar from the DusktilDawn route and slowly ascended the road up past Eccles Pike summit and then another steep but fast descent on the road towards Chinley and Checkpoint 3. I felt comfortable with the pace and the miles seemed to be going quite quickly at this stage.

Buxton AC were manning checkpoint 4 so it was nice to see some friendly and familiar faces supporting and cheering me on. Darren was stamping the tally cards. A couple of cups of orange juice and several fig biscuits for the journey, I said my goodbyes and was swiftly on my way again. My intention was to transition the checkpoints quickly without spending too long at them today.

Onwards we went up a stony track where I ate my biscuit. The route continued through Roych Clough gradually but awkwardly on a rocky, rutted path which tested my ankles to the limit. I had an occasional twinge in my left from an old sprain but nothing significant to cause any concern. The track is interspersed with gates and always seems to go on forever to get to the road junction at Rushup Edge. I’d run this section on numerous occasions before so was quite prepared for the mental battle with this.

I went through checkpoint 5 at Rushup Edge and then turned left adjacent to the road to climb up the rough, rocky path. I was on my own now with no other runners I could see in front. I approached a finger post with a yellow arrow pointing left on it. I knew the route went over Rushup Edge but the conversation in my head told me…what if they are taking the route this way and skirting around to join the top of Rushup Edge later on? ….I followed the arrow! Bad judgement! A lesson to trust your gut instinct and not to let the conversations in your head overrule the logic!

I ran down the path and could see another runner in front who had slowed down. He waited for me and queried whether we were on the right path. We agreed that we had followed the wrong arrow, damn! I was later informed the arrow was for a mountain bike race, a mistake that caught a few out last year too. I was annoyed with myself, as the detour cost me about 10-15 minutes. Rushup Edge was now above us and we had to ascend steeply to get back on the right track.

I pushed on then to Mam Nick and it was a quick climb up to the summit of Mam Tor. No time to take in any views, it was misty anyhow plus I was still annoyed at myself! Then a fast run down to Hollins Cross. The slabs were greasy so I chose to run along the old path by the fence which I find is a lot easier to run along. Hollins Cross is deceptive not a cross at all but a view finder! The descent to Castleton from here is on slippy slabs and is rocky and technical. It pays to be fleet-footed and nimble. A friend, just in front, took a nasty tumble and I waited to see if he was ok before carrying on down into the village to arrive at Checkpoint 6.

Castleton checkpoint
Photo courtesy of Nick Ham

Onwards and upwards! It is a long ascent up through Cave Dale but I’m always happier ascending this path rather than descending it as the limestone can be particularly treacherous underfoot and today was no different.

Cave Dale
Photo courtesy of Nick Ham

The next section was a bit of a blur but we passed through checkpoint 7 and came out onto a road. I wasn’t expecting a long road section here but it continued through Tideswell and out the other side until we got onto the path to Tideswell Dale. Darren and Ellie were waiting by the gate just before the checkpoint so it was nice to see them again and exchange a few words before I arrived at checkpoint 8.

The public toilets in the car park were a welcome site so I paid a quick visit and continued on my way to Miller’s Dale. I was familiar with this area having run through Litton and along the path at Water-cum-Jolly on numerous occasions before to join the Monsal trail.

Just before Monsal Head I was greeted by a friendly Marshall at checkpoint 9, and then directed down to the valley below where we ran alongside the river before crossing the A6 to White Lodge Car Park. This was followed by another long ascent through Deep Dale and my thoughts turned to spring, recollecting how pretty this Dale is when the steep sides are covered in cowslips and mountain pansies.

At Checkpoint 10, at the end of a track, I was surprised to see Darren and Ellie again helping out. Ellie clipped my tally card whilst Darren offered me a drink. Soon on my way again, I waved goodbye and asked for directions and was told to turn right. Okay, this must be the never ending road section that I had been warned about, I thought! Sure enough, you could see the task ahead in front of you. I was feeling tired now and my hamstrings were really tight and sore so I ran the flat and down hill sections and power walked the rises.

Ellie and Darren marshalling
Photo courtesy of Nick Ham

I continued through Chelmorton village, and then onto a track before arriving at the second Deep Dale. We’re going where?! I thought, as I saw some other runners ascending on the opposite side of the valley. It was a narrow, greasy path but I ran down it and walked up the other side of the valley with my hands on my knees. Some other supporters were at the top and informed me it was just across the field to the final checkpoint at King Sterndale.

Darren and Ellie were here again cheering me on and I grabbed a drink and stuffed two fig rolls in my pocket and said see you at the finish.

I had to dig deep now. My legs were sore and my belly felt bloated. Too many fig rolls (a childhood favourite of mine along with Garibaldi biscuits…do they still make those?!) when I mainly follow a gluten-free diet now! My watch felt tight on my wrist so I slackened it off. I looked at my hands and noticed I had a bad case of oedema today as they were all puffy and my fingers were like sausages. I get this occasionally when I’m out walking or running but apart from fat hands it’s not uncomfortable or a cause for concern. Thankfully, I knew I hadn’t got far to go now, I could see Corbar Cross on the hill but Buxton was still out of site in the valley below.

The last few miles were familiar and I remembered I had run this on a training run with Buxton AC a few weeks back. I was on my own now and I hadn’t got the strength to open some of the last spring-loaded gates so I had to climb over them. The route headed under the viaduct and into Buxton past the cottage hospital. I was focused on getting to the end but didn’t know the final route back so I made sure I kept my eyes peeled as didn’t want miss any of the arrows. I was able to pick up the pace for the final section and soon I was onto College Road and the final turn left into the school grounds and up to the finish. Darren and Ellie were waiting for me and I was happy to finish in a time of 8 hours 23 minute and was 3rd in my age group.

Thanks to the organisers, marshals and supporters of the event and a particularly big thank you to Darren and Ellie for being my race crew for the day 🙂

Clare at the finish of the High Peak 40

CCC week

Darren What do we get up to! CCC, utmb

CCC Profile

The CCC race is one of the five races that form the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc and at 100km is often referred to as the ‘little sister’ of the main UTMB race. I had entered the CCC around December-time last year and when I heard I had been successful in the draw in the New Year, the excitement began to build from then on. We planned that this would be our summer holiday. You can always tell a dedicated runner when summer holiday plans revolve around a race. We were in Chamonix last year a week before the UTMB, when the atmosphere was beginning to build so I knew it was going to be an incredible experience and I wasn’t let down.

The start of the Petite Trotte de Leon (PTL)

We watched the start of the ‘Petite Trotte a Leon’ (PTL) race on the Monday. These guys are awesome. They had 5 days to trot around the mountains and complete the 300km route. They were in teams of 2 or 3 and had to be self-sufficient, carrying a full kit and navigating their own route between the checkpoints. The music was loud, the crowds were deafening, shouting, cheering, and ringing cow bells as they set off on their journey. An inspirational site.

The Expo opened on Tuesday and so did the heavens. It rained constantly all day. We went into Chamonix after lunch and as the expo was outside, each stand a wooden hut much like the Christmas markets, we dashed from stall to stall to avoid the rain. The river in Chamonix was in spate and was frighteningly high and fast flowing and had breached in several places causing flooding to a number of properties. This weather didn’t bode well for the race.

A busy but wet Expo

On Wednesday, it was a completely different day, beautifully warm and sunny. It was time for me to collect my race number or ‘bib’ as they call it in France. At the same time we also had to go through kit check and collect our final details and goody bag. We got to the leisure centre early where this was being held but there was a large queue out of the door. Never mind, it was sunny and the queue was moving quite swiftly so it didn’t seem to take too long. It was dawning on me the race was now becoming a reality and I was getting nervous.

Mont Blanc

Following kit check we had a meal in Chamonix. It was now time for the carbo loading to begin. Following my main course of veggie pasta, I took the opportunity to have a huge dessert, 2 crepes with chocolate sauce, banana, ice cream and cream, yummy!

Thursday, was a day of relaxation and eating. We went into Chamonix to watch the finish of the TDS and OCC race, clapping and cheering on the runners as they completed the race. It was great to see them running into the finish line hand-in-hand with their loved ones. It was a lovely surprise to bump into friends who were supporting too. A large lunch of pasta ensued followed later by pizza. After getting all my gear organised; gear for Darren to carry, gear for my drop bag and then sorting my own bag, it was time for an early night.

The alarm rudely went off at 4.30am on Friday morning and it was another 15 minutes before I could drag myself out of bed. There was plenty of time as the taxi wasn’t picking us up until 6am. Surprisingly, how fast this went though.

At Chamonix we had a short wait for the Shuttle bus to Courmayeur and it was still dark but pleasantly warm. The journey took about 45 minutes much of which was taken up by driving through the Mont Blanc tunnel, an experience in itself. Once we arrived on the other side of the tunnel in Italy, the views were once again, stunning. We were dropped off at a leisure centre where everybody seemed to head for the toilets. Unusually, the ladies toilet queue was much smaller than the men’s. I guess this is understandable when only 13% of the field is female, so a few men had cheekily joined in the ladies queue.

We then made our way to the start which was about a 10 minute walk away and met up with another friend who was running. It was now beginning to bustle, the music was loud and the atmosphere was friendly. Runners posed for photos, had last minute bites to eat and were wished on the their way by friends and relatives. I said my goodbyes to Darren as he wanted to get a good place in front of the start line. Soon everyone was in the starting pens and getting ready. There was a lot of cheering, clapping and waving as the atmosphere was intensified by the comperes. Then it was the count down in Italian and the first wave of runners were on their way to Vangelis’ Conquest of Paradise.

Just before the start of the CCC

After another 10 minutes and following the French Marseillaise, and with the count down in French this time, wave 2, which I was in was on its way. The crowd was deafening, cow bells ringing, people whooping and cheering. I spotted Darren filming using my pink iPad quite easily in the crowd. The start was easily en par with any of the big city marathons that I’d run. A fabulous experience, one that I’ll truly remember.

As we left the town we started to climb almost immediately, first on the road then on tracks and eventually on woodland trails. As the path narrowed and steepened, the pace slowed and there was a lot of hanging around and taking it in turns to move forward. Many people had got their trekking poles out from the beginning but mine were tucked away in my bag, which was an advantage at this point as it meant I was able to duck and dive quite flexibly around others. Soon we approached a steep drop, where again the path was very narrow, slippy, rocky and steep. The build up of people here was a little frustrating and others started to try and find alternative routes but it wasn’t easy with the steep ground and trees. We continued to climb and eventually the trees started to thin and we came out onto steep open ground. Above the tree line, you could see the field of runners ahead winding their way up to the top. This was the biggest single climb of the day from Courmayeur at an altitude of 1210m to the top of the Tete de la tronche at 2500m.

I didn’t stop at the mobile drinks station at the Tete but continued the steady, grassy and uneven descent to the first major checkpoint at Refuge Bertone. I had a swift couple of diluted cokes and a slice of a flapjacky-bar and continued on my way.

The next section headed steadily up the valley until a short, sharp climb to reach Checkpoint 2 at Refuge Bonatti. I had a toilet stop here and some more coke, flapjacky bar and a quick chat, before I headed on my way, once again heading up the valley. The views were stunning but at times the clouds seemed a little menacing, luckily after a few spit-spots of rain, it brightened up again as we headed to Arnuva.

I headed into the marquee checkpoint, I had some cheese and pulled the bread out of the centre of four small pieces of baguette (the crust was too tough!). I left the checkpoint, crossed the river and headed up the valley where I knew the next big climb was about to start. I pulled my poles out of my bag, little beknown to me, Darren was sat on a boulder higher up watching me start the next climb. Just at that moment, he sneakily ran past and surprised me by taking my photo. A quick kiss, another photo and I continued on my way. I felt strong on this climb, which passed really quickly to the Col de la Ferrat. At the top there was a small drinks and rest station, I didn’t stop and continued on straight through. I folded my poles as the descent looked good and I knew it would be an opportunity for some faster running on a narrow but well trodden path.

Starting the climb from Arnuva up to the Grand Col Feret

Starting the climb from Arnuva up to the Grand Col Ferrat

At the La Fouly checkpoint, I changed my top, to a long sleeved one as I felt it was getting cooler, filled my water bladder, had some food and then continued on my way again. As I left the marquee I noticed it was spitting with rain but then a 100m further up the road it got much heavier so I stopped under a shop canopy to put my waterproof jacket on.

Further on I caught up with a friend and we chatted and ran together for a short while. I was looking forward to the next checkpoint at Champex-Lac but didn’t realise there was a 500m ascent beforehand. This seemed to take a while and during the ascent a wave of nausea came over me. I knew I needed to eat some food and had been snacking on bars in my pocket all the way round but now I felt lacking in energy, thirsty and sick.

Upon arrival at Champex, the checkpoint was in a big marquee and was heaving with runners and supporters. It felt very hot, which didn’t help with the nausea. I tried to find a table to sit down at and had to push my way through the crowded tent to find a small space in the supporters area. I couldn’t see Darren and because I was not feeling great, I felt a little dispondent and low. I got a text from him to say he’d be there soon. I knew I needed to eat and went to get some pasta. I asked what the vegetarian option was but was looked at like I was an alien and given a plain bowl of pasta minus the sauce so I added some cheese onto it and a little salt and made my way back to the table.

The pasta made me feel much better and I got myself ready to go. Darren had now arrived and was very supportive. I changed my top again back to short sleeve as I had felt too hot with both the long sleeve top and waterproof jacket and felt this had contributed to my nauseous feeling. I was actually an hour at this checkpoint, which I wasn’t happy with but it was the first sit-down that I’d had and it helped me to regain my composure.

Leaving the Champex-Lac Checkpoint

I left the checkpoint and it was now dark and rainy. Another big climb ensued through woodland then out into the open, I was in a steady stream of other runners all in single file and at one point I struck up a conversation with an English guy. The going under foot was like a quagmire through the mud and a lot of the other runners were slipping and sliding but I found it ok with the support of my poles and being used to these conditions from back home. We skirted above the town on Martingny, which was lovely to look down on with its orange twinkly lights and eventually descended back through woodland. This was the longest section between checkpoints at 17km so it was a good feeling to arrive at Trient.

Darren was here to support me and I had a cup of tea and some more bread (without the crust) and cheese and was soon on my way again. It was straight out of the checkpoint and into a very steep climb of approx. 1000m. I took an energy gel about half way up and then on the descent I was feeling peckish so tried to eat a Nakd bar. This was awful, I couldn’t swallow. I mushed each bite in my mouth and with every attempt to swallow I was gagging and making horrible sounds. God knows what the other runners around me must have thought! I consumed 3/4 of the bar and that was as much as I could manage but it did sustain me to Vallorcine.

It was a short run in the dark through the village at Vallorcine, where there was music playing and people were cheering as I arrived at the Checkpoint. Two more cups of tea, some bread and I waited to use the wooden compostable port-a-loos but people seemed to be enthroned on these so I decided not to wait any longer as I could stop behind a tree further on. I was nauseous still, but felt positive here, knowing I could finish and was happy to be get on my way and out into the night.

The path made it’s way adjacent to a roaring river and then beside the railway line gently ascending to a road, where there was a intermediate checkpoint and our numbers were checked. We were guided across the road, not that it was busy at this unearthly time and we started the steep, rocky ascent almost immediately. The line of head torches snaking there way up the mountain was a sight I will never forget but at the same time quite scary as I could see the distance and height of the torches so knew the amount of climbing that was required on this final ascent. ‘Come on Clare’, I said to myself, ‘get on with it!’ …and off I went. I felt strong again and overtook a few other runners.

Towards the top it was misty and the light was bouncing back from my headtorch but then I noticed that it was starting to get lighter. As it dawned, I was going at the same pace as a French guy and almost simultaneously we took our eyes off the path and looked to the left. We both said wow! We were in awe of the beautiful mountainscape in the morning haze. The sharp rocky peaks were protruding through the clouds of the temperature inversion in the valley below. It was truly stunning.

Eventually, I arrived at La Flagere, the final checkpoint. The marquee was quiet. A few runners were sat down on chairs but I wanted to pass through relatively quickly. I had a quick cup of diluted coke and most of a chocolatey-cereal bar before heading out and past the ski lifts to start the long descent down to Chamonix.

When I say long descent, I mean long, it literally seemed to go on forever. It was quite tricky in places with rocks and trees roots trying to catch you out. I stopped briefly to remove my waterproof jacket as it was getting warmer the lower I got. Swiftly on my way again, it was nice to get off the trail and onto the tarmaced road of Chamonix. Not that I like tarmac, it was that I knew I hadn’t got much further to go to the finish then. I arrived at the familiar site of the leisure centre and turned right at the barrier. The piece of tape that Darren had tied to the barrier was still in place. Whilst we were watching the OCC race earlier in the week at this spot we noticed a few runners were a little uncertain of the direction at this point and the additional tape helped them. There was now only 1km left as I ran along the path beside the river. It was around 9.30am and people had come out to watch and support. There was cheers of support, clapping, shouting of ‘bravo’ and occasionally I heard a ‘well done’ as the Union Jack on my race number was spotted.

I was now running at a brisk and consistent pace. There was no other runners in front that I could see and as I came into the town centre and rounded the barriers and onto the finishing straight, I noticed that Darren was filming from the sidelines. The finish line was in sight and my eyes were focused on getting there, no time for frivolity until right at the end as I raised my arms as I crossed the line. I had finished. I was happy.

Positives

The wonderful scenery
Headtorches snaking across the mountains in the dark
Using trekking poles
No chaffing or blisters
The fabulous atmosphere
Having support around the route from Darren
The temperature
The selection of food available at checkpoints
Not feeling sleepy at all

Negatives

Feeling nauseous several times
Mud and rain
Busy checkpoints
Other peoples carelessness with trekking poles
Grit in my shoes (ankle gaiters would have proved invaluable)

Gear worn or used

MountainKing trail blaze trekking poles
Inov8 Trailroc 246 trainers
Skins 200 shorts
Nike Dry fit t-shirt/More Mile long sleeve top/Odlo ‘Run for your life’ t-shirt
Running Bear woollen socks
OMM Kamleika waterproof smock
Quechua 10 litre running rucksack
Sea-to-summit foldable beaker
Saloman baseball cap
Thin pair of gloves
Led Lenser SR7 headtorch
Buff
Asics sweatband on my wrist

Gear carried

North Face packable fleece top
Saloman waterproof over trousers
Adidas climafit long tights
Spare thin gloves
Lowe alpine powerstretch hat
Sealskins waterproof gloves
Emergency foil bivi
Emergency food
Petzl Tikka headtorch and spare batteries

Surrey 3 Peaks

Darren What do we get up to!

Leith Hill _ peak number 2 and the highest in Southeast Engalnd

Mountains in Mind had the pleasure of being part of the support team on Advocate Events’, Surrey 3 Peaks Challenge on Saturday in the Surrey Hills, Area of Outstanding National Beauty in the North Downs. I was a walking leader with the Gold group whilst Darren was on safety duties and a roving leader, meeting walkers at various point along the way.

The route started off from Holmbury Village Hall with a gradual ascent to the summit of Holmbury Hill then followed the Greensand Way to the top of Leith Hill, the highest point in the County of Surrey.

A superb gothic tower stands majestically on the summit built by the local squire in the 18th century to raise the height of the hill to over a 1000ft! Whilst enjoying the views of the surrounding plains, if the weather is clear you can admire the London skyline in the distance even picking out Wembley Stadium! We took advantage of the refreshment kiosk in the tower, I had a cup of tea, whilst others enjoyed a slice of cake before we continued on our journey. This was the end for the Twin Peaks walkers who then made their way back to Holmbury.

The Gold and Platinum walkers continued and followed the path which gradually descended through a fantastic ancient woodland with old coppiced trees and huge gnarly standards intermingling. A remnant of the traditional managed woodlands from a time gone by. Occasionally spotting the vibrant orange but poisonous berries of the Lords and Ladies plant, which added contrast to the otherwise green foliage on the woodland floor.

Lords and Ladies on the Surrey 3 Peaks

We continued on our journey through lovely picturesque villages before taking a quick rest stop on the green at Westcott. From here we picked up the North Downs Way through Denbies Vineyard, the largest vineyard in the UK.

As we walked along the road, much of the day had been spent underneath the canopy of the trees but here we came out into the sunshine and onto fabulous calcareous downland with a vibrant display of wildflowers. We took in the views looking over the vineyard towards Dorking and it was at this point I started to day-dream about a chilled glass of white wine! We heard the sound of a car and stepped to one side to let it pass, alas it was a road-train pulled by a Land Rover undertaking tours of the winery, whilst the passengers on board sampled the delights of what the vineyard had to offer.

Surrey 3 Peaks

After what seemed like a long descent through the trees, we crossed the busy A-road then walked through the car park and arrived at the stepping stones across the River Mole. From here, we climbed the 200+ steps to reach the top of Box Hill and arrive at Soloman’s Memorial, where we were rewarded with outstanding views across the plains below. The hill is a honey-pot for picnic-ers, walkers and cyclists, with the zig-zag road providing easy access to the summit by car and a challenge for cyclists wanting to replicate part of the route used in the Olympic Games.

Surrey 3 Peaks – all for Charity

At the summit of Box Hill, I took a few photos for the ladies I’d walked with and congratulated them on their achievement and provided them with their gold sticker to mark their accomplishment of walking 13 miles. Transport was provided (if required) back to the start, however, the Platinum group on the other hand, had the chance to have a coffee and cake at the visitor centre before they turned around to reverse their route back to Holmbury to complete 26 miles.

Box Hill – Peak number 3

I waited for a lift with a few of the other Gold group back to Holmbury Village Hall with Darren in the minibus, where once there, I had a quick change of clothes and a bite to eat before we jumped back into the bus to provide road support for the Platinum walkers on their return.

We headed back to Westcott and then on to Leith Hill, where I waited in the minibus to provide water for the walkers if they needed topping up. Darren walked to the top to await the returning Platinum walkers. After a short while, a large group went past supported by Daz and then a little later, Martyn came running past with one of the walkers, who had now decided she wanted to run back, so Martyn was accompanying her to show her the way. Finally, Darren arrived back accompanying the final walker. As he didn’t know the route back, within a few seconds, I had grabbed a bag and some water, and was unexpectedly back on the route, walking the last few miles back to Holmbury Village Hall. We arrived back at the Village Hall to a celebratory applause from the support team.

Raising much needed money for Charity

What a great day. The weather stayed warm and sunny so was a big bonus. We’d like to say a big well done to everyone for completing the challenge and for raising lots of much needed funds for the charities that were supported today.

Afterwards, the team all headed down to the pub in the village. Me for that much dreamt after glass of chilled white wine from earlier whilst the rest of the guys tucked into Monster Munch!

Mountain Skills – Kinder Scout

Darren What do we get up to! 999, castleton, compass bearing, compass skills, darren hunt, edale, features, grid reference, kinder scout, map and compass, mountains, navigation for runners, navigation skills, navigation training, pacing, peak district, Running, timimg, trail running peak district, walking

KInder Scout

On Saturday 16th November saw 6 brave souls heading out on our latest Mountain Skills day for walkers and trail runners on Kinder Scout. The day started with mist clinging onto the edges of Kinder with winds gusting 35mph+. This caused a dilemma! The day will mainly be based around basic navigation techniques & emergency techniques, just in case. With the wind being so strong it would be virtually impossible to carry out any form of skills transfer. With the mist being low, although be great learning conditions, would be a little advanced for today. Thankfully whilst waiting in Edale car park the mist lifted,the decision was made. The route would take a line along Grindsbrook, then back along the edges towards Ringing Roger then descend back into Edale.

All of the team arrived and we set off at 0915 passing the ole nags head in Edale and up towards Grindslow Clough. The team practiced setting the map (orientating) to the ground, identifying features such as boundaries, walls, fences, old boundaries which aren’t as prominent, overtime being reduced to piles of rubble, but in a logical line. The team then practiced pacing and timing along the path, gaining a base for walking 100 metres which is used as an aid to determine distance traveled and distance to an objective. This is a key skill to master as it can help you navigate in poor visibility, feature less terrain ( such as on the summit of Kinder Scout ) or at night.

After a short break in the woods by Golden Clough it was time to have fun with the compass. We identified different types of compass, features of the compass, such as the base plate, compass housing, magnetic ‘north’ needle, the ‘ direction of travel’ arrow at the top end of the base plate, which is used to point the direction you want to walk. A few of the group realized their confusion between the ‘red’ magnetic arrow and the direction they walked in ( I’ll post a short video blog on this) this was a massive breakthrough and they could see so many doors opening in their navigation experience going forward.

We stopped for a spot of lunch in the shadows of Nether Tor and then is was time for Grid references. The team were tasked with finding various features on the map after understanding how the grid system works in the uk. They practiced with 4 figure grid references, then progressed to 6 figure grid references which relates to 100sqm of land on the ground. Carrying on along the path towards Grindsclough stoping at various points to take a grid reference, bearings and to identify our position.

Heading on to Kinder

The skies above had cleared and although very windy. I decided to end the day and to give the team a change to see what its like on top of Kinder Scout, we climbed the short, but steep path to the summit. The wind hit us like the downdraft of a Seaking Helicopter, re-grouping behind a small tor we moved off together. With the wind sometimes knocking us off balance, inmost cases the wind our backs so helped us move quickly. The team loved the experience, the exposure and the clear views all around high above the peak district and made for a great finish to the day.

Being blown around on Kinder Scout

On the descent we practiced setting up an emergency shelter , how quickly you warm up when taken out of the wind. We then discussed basic emergency techniques for calling for help!

‘Call 999 and ask for Police Mountain Rescue’

Immediatly Giving your name,mobile number and location ( grid reference). Then nature of the emergency, casualty details( name, age , sex), number in your party.

We headed back to the car park and with big smiles we bid our farewells till next time.

A BIG thank you to Rich , Julie, Chris, Carolyn, Jojo & Johnathan for a great day.

For more photos pop along to flickr

Click here to listen review what the guys thought of the day.

If you like to find out more about our skill transfers days for Walkers and Trail runners please drop us an email – adventures@mountainsinmind.com

Dusk til Dawn – 50 miles (during darkness)

Darren What do we get up to! dusk til dawn, fellsman, Running, tnfutmb, trail running, utmb

Before darkness

One thing I’ve learned from running in the dark is that distances seem a lot further…perhaps it’s just my mind playing tricks!

I woke up on the Saturday morning feeling quite apprehensive about the race. I’d prepared my bag the night previously so all I had to do was fill my water bladder and make sure I ate and drank sufficiently during the day. Darren had left the house at around 10.30am to run to Castleton, taking in the some of the route in reverse along the Limestone way that I would be covering later in the dark. It was a bright day, the sun was shining and although it had given out showers I was hopeful that the weather wasn’t going to be too bad for the race, at least the temperatures were not going to be cold.

I had a bit of a headache though, why? Was it stress…was I dehydrated…had I drunk enough? I took an ibuprofen as I didn’t want it to continue and hinder my preparations. What should I eat…the race started at 6pm and didn’t want anything heavy lying on my stomach. I had carbo- loaded the previous day, so I decided to have some toast with marmalade for breakfast. I was meeting Darren at Losehill hall around 2pm so I was able to shower and relax for a short period before making sure that I had everything I required in my overnight bag for the stay and eating two more slices of toast for lunch before I left.

Arriving at Castleton, I met Darren and was able to check into my room. Darren then had to dash off to the Marshall’s briefing so I had a short snooze and at 3.30pm, went to the kit check. This was was the most stringent kit check I had had come across in any race, each of the Marshall’s had a tick list to make sure that you were carrying or wearing all the required kit and you had to pass this before they would issue your race number.

He will collect your soul

I had decided to wear a pair of Ron Hill 3/4 tights that I’d had for a few years so I knew they were comfortable. In the past few races I’ d suffered from some chaffing on my lower back, which wasn’t noticeable on the races but had made me hit the roof as it stung like hell when I’d jumped in the shower afterwards! So I decided to smother my lower back with Vaseline before putting on my top. Over this, I wore an Adidas high-viz climaproof gilet that I’d bought just for the race as I knew we had to wear something reflective and thought I would try a gilet to give me that little extra bit of protection from the wind as I was often too warm running in my long sleeve waterproof.

In the mesh pockets on the side of my rucksack I put my hat in one side and my torch and gloves in the other side so I knew these were accessible without taking my rucksack off. In the waist pockets I carried a small supply of food; chocolate raisins, a trek bar and some tiny cheese and cranberry sandwiches, made from Warburton’s sandwich thins. I have found these to be ideal for running on because they are small and light. I was running in a pair of trusty woollen Running Bear socks together with a pair of purple Saloman Speedcross 3 trainers. I’ve worn Running Bear socks (not the same pair!) for over ten years now as I’ve always found the wool prevents my feet from blistering but I’d never raced in these trainers before.

Dusk til Dawn safety briefing

I then waited for the briefing prior to the start. The room was now very busy, heaving with runners doing last minute kit checks, stretching and any other weird and random rituals runners seem to do! Richard was very thorough providing good advice on various sections of the route which having undertaken the recce a few weeks earlier, I was visualising as I traced the route on the laminated map we were provided with.

I met Ode in the room before the briefing and a few other runners that I knew. Following the briefing we made our way to the start line, which was about 10 minutes walk from Lose Hill hall. I said goodbye to Darren had a few photos taken and before we knew it, we were underway heading up the road towards Lose Hill itself. Towards the summit of Lose Hill was the first control and as I had my head down for the climb, I almost missed it on the fence. Some others seemed to have done the same as a few minutes later several runners were retracing their steps. Up and over the summit it was now getting dark as we started heading back down towards Hope. On a steep grassy section though, I went over on my left ankle which made me swear to myself and left me hobbling for a few moments before I pulled myself together. It prompted me to swiftly pull out my headtorch as the darkness was now looming. I felt annoyed at myself momentarily but the pain didn’t last long and I was able to catch up with those that had overtaken me as we snaked along the paths back towards Castleton.

Heading up Cavedale it was wet underfoot and I was glad I was going up rather than descending as the limestone at the entrance to the dale is very slippy. The runners were starting to thin out a little now and the wind was beginning to pick up as it started to drizzle. I felt warm and was reluctant to put on my water proof as my gilet was keeping me relatively dry. We picked up the Limestone Way and followed this for sometime. This was the part of the course that I was least familiar with as I had undertaken the recce for this section in the dark but there was still plenty of other runners around at this point so I was not concerned. A quick stop at checkpoint 2 for some juice and a couple of pieces of chocolate brownie and I was on my way again heading towards Miller’s Dale.

Crossing the bridge over the river Wye was a poignant moment as this was a spot my beloved collie, Jed, always liked to have a quick swim to clean up after we’d had a run together around Miller’s Dale. This was followed by a steep climb at Priestcliffe, where there was a sign by the path which said something like ‘almost there’ then not long after that there was another one that said ‘just kidding! …that made me smile.

Heading towards the Marshall point on the road crossing at the Waterloo Inn the rain got progressively heavier. The sleeves on my top under my gilet were now starting to get wet so I crossed over the road and pulled on my waterproof smock as I ascended the track. The rain was heavy at this point and as I ran along the road and track sections the rain was horizontal and being blown straight into my face. I had put my gloves on earlier and pulled my waterproof jacket sleeves over my gloves to keep them dry. It’s a good job I’ve only got short arms!

Heading along the road, my head torch was now starting to blink a red light and I knew that this meant the battery was running low. This was going to be good test for my new Led Lenser torch as I’d only had it for less than a month and was unsure of the battery life. I was on the track section when my headtorch completely died but was able to continue running in the pitch black before getting my back up Petzl XP torch out of my rucksack. I find it easier to carry a back up torch for a quick switch over rather than struggling to replace the batteries in the dark.

A welcome site. Earl sterndale – CP3

Arriving at Earl Sterndale it was good to see Darren there who was on marshall duties. I found my drop bag and quickly changed into a dry top. I also swapped over my headtorch for Darren’s. After two cups of tea, some malt loaf and a quick toilet stop, I was off again only to turn around and run back in to the hall as I remembered I’d left my wet clothes in an unnamed carrier bag on the floor rather than place them in my drop bag. Take two! Hood up with my hat on underneath, I felt a little chilled after stopping but running down the road I soon warmed up again. The path on the right climbed through the cottage’s rock garden and over a stile onto to open fields where I was met with a short but steep climb up to the quarry. Then turning left onto a a very rutted track where care had to be taken and concentration was required on foot placement before crossing the road and several fields to gain the country lane that led to High Edge Raceway. It was on the lane I turned off my headtorch, not as a race tactic…I had recently read Scott Jurek’s ‘Eat and Run’ and the top ultra runners employed this technique at times so that the opposition couldn’t see them catching them up in the dark. However, mine was to conserve the battery life of my headtorch! There was now no one else around and it was enjoyable to run this section with the dim moonlight reflecting on the road surface and as I approached the raceway it was well floodlit anyway. I could see that I was catching some other runners up ahead in the distance with their headtorches.

I jumped over the stile and headed across the field and by now I had caught up with a guy and recounted my story of when I recced this section on a dark, gloomy night with Darren. Four horses had come galloping straight out of the out of the fog towards us, scary!

After crossing the A53, the route picked up at old track before crossing the infamous A537 known as the ‘Cat & Fiddle’ road, renowned as the most dangerous road in the United Kingdom! Before joining Macclesfield old road and heading upwards towards the Cat & Fiddle Inn.

It was a delight to walk into the pub and to be clapped and cheered on arrival and to receive such a warm and friendly welcome. The log fire was burning and and I was offered a cup of tea and grabbed a bite to eat before another quick loo break, having my photo taken and returning back outside. I checked the time and it was now 12.30am and I’d completed 27.6 miles.

Heading over Shining Tor, clipping the checkpoint on the summit, the weather was now clear, the moon was out and the twinkling lights of Macclesfield and beyond were quite mesmerising. Picking up the flagged pathway from the summit and heading down over Cats Tor to the road, I opted to turn left here and then take the road on the right heading towards Wingather Rocks. I gained a lot of momentum as I ran down the road but it did seem to take a lot longer here than what I’d remembered from the recce. Eventually, I arrived at the quarried area and scrambled up to join the main path over Windgather rocks. I’d pulled ahead of some other runners at this point and was back on my own again but felt comfy with this as I was familiar with the area.

Arriving at Taxal, I remembered what Richard had said about the church yard being dark and spooky so as I ran past the cemetary I made sure I kept my eyes well focused on the path! After crossing the river and heading up to the road, I thought it was another glow stick pointing the way but as I got closer it was a skull with green glowing eyes!

At the top, I was greeted by a nice friendly welcome from Wendy, had a quick slurp of coke and headed across the A5004. Crossing over a number of fields and clipping the checkpoint at the ‘difficult to find stile’ which I had no difficulties with tonight as there were glow sticks and reflective tape a-plenty, I then headed towards Tunstead Milton.

The next section was a steep ascent on the road heading up to Eccles Pike. I was starting to feel a little sickly here and on the descent felt I wasn’t giving it my best. A quick clip at the checkpoint on the gate, I had now been caught up by another runner as we headed past the Works and over the railway line on the outskirts of Chinley and another short section on the road before a sharp right turn up to Checkpoint 9.

Oasis in the Darkness – CP9 – Cracken Edge

I was greeted by the Marshalls and it was nice to see Darren had also made it here to meet me. I wasn’t sure whether he would make it as he was on marshalling duty and had previously let me know that he may have had to drive some of the non- completers back to the start. There was a large tent & one of the guys was cooking burgers but being vegetarian and also as I was feeling nauseous, the smell wasn’t nice. I knew I had to eat something and Darren had bought a cheese sandwich and although I didn’t really have the appetite for it I made myself eat half of it as knew I needed the sustainance to keep going. Two cups of tea & a quick swap of the headtorch, which Darren had put new batteries in for me, I could see the headtorches of other runners approaching so I knew it was time for me to bid farewell.

I set off up over Cracken edge and followed the detour due to a collapsed path and soon found the notable bench, which a few yards further on, I had to turn right then zig zag down the fields. A quick wee stop behind a wall and I was off again, crossing the A624, passing the rusty plough and ascending Mount Famine to join up with the Peninne Bridleway and to clip checkpoint 10.

The next stretch seemed to take forever! It was on a track, which was undulating and the going under foot was rocky and uneven. I was beginning to get tired now and my throat felt sore, not sure why. I was focused on getting to the road Marshall at the start of Rush-up Edge. In my mind, I knew I would finish now, my feet were in good condition and I could expect to be tired at this stage. At one of the gates, it had a sign indicating the path was closed but I ignored this as there was no alternative to where I needed to be. The track was undergoing restoration work and although it was more uneven with the works it wasn’t an issue.

I arrived at the Marshall point, and was glad to see another person as I had been on my own without seeing another sole, apart from distant headtorch beams, for what seemed quite a long time now. Turning left along the path, it had now started to rain again and I felt chilled as the wind had picked up too. I was too tired to run the gentle up hill sections which I would have done normally and because of this it seemed to take forever to make any progress, however, once over Lord’s Seat I was glad to be able to pick up the pace and to run the grassy descent and arrive at the road just below Mam Tor. I’d now been joined by two other runners as we made the short ascent up to Mam Tor summit. The rain had eased but the paved path was slippy with the wet conditions so on the descent to Hollins Cross I kept to the side, on the grass.

A quick clip of the final checkpoint and it was now all down hill to the finish. Little did I know how tricky this would be. I was aware from the recce that the path was blocky but under such wet conditions it was treacherous. So my progress was hindered as I slowed down to concentrate. The other two guys had now pulled significantly ahead and this made me despondent that I couldn’t keep up with them for this final stretch. I soon hit the gate that I’d passed through earlier on the way up to Lose Hill and knew it wasn’t far to the finish.

50 miles – Done

I ran down the road and continued past the start line and into the village turning left and and then eventually left again into the grounds of Lose Hill Hall. This section seemed to to take ages but not far to go now even though the road was very slightly up hill so was hard going on tired legs. I trotted past the YHA and under the arch and into the mews at the back to the finish. I was happy and arrived just in the knack of time to complete the route in the darkness. The next runner in after me was now in the twilight zone!