Running

Spine Race Kit explosion

Spine Challenger Top Tips

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The Spine Race, Spine Challenger and Spine MRT Challenge is a winter adventure along the Pennine Way.  The conditions are usually wild. It’s often windy, snowy or rainy, sometimes all three! What’s more with it being set in winter the nights are long and the daylight hours are short. There’s a high level of attrition with often over 50% of the field retiring along the way. To get to the end requires good preparation and self-management skills. Having completed the Spine Challenger previously, getting to 200 miles on the Spine Race a few years ago and finishing the MRT Challenge, I thought I’d share a few Spine top tips that helped me to reach the finish line of the MRT Challenge this year.

1. Develop strategies to cope with mental fatigue

The mental challenge is probably as tough or perhaps even tougher than the physical challenge. There are sections of the event that can seem to drag on and take forever. Or maybe you’ve been on your own for hours on end. It’s during these long unforgiving sections that you can start to think negative thoughts. It’s important to have a strategy to be able to cope. I usually give my tracker a name. This time his name was Bob. He’s that silent, strong friend who’s looking out for you!

 

Focus on breaking the event down into manageable chunks rather than the journey as a whole. Getting to the next checkpoint or looking forward to the next stop and having something delicious to eat. Splitting it into sections helps to maintain the motivation and having something yummy to eat is something to look forward to!

Focus on positive thoughts. Think how happy you’ll be when you get to the next stop. Have a mantra or a phrase you can repeat to yourself to keep focused and motivated. Take in all the views around you, when it’s daylight anyway, and enjoy your surroundings.

2. Stay warm and dry

This will help mentally too if you are battling the elements and can stay warm. Getting cold may develop into a negative spiral. I had three layering system of headgear, which worked a treat. I started off with no hat, but I pulled my hood up over Kinder when the weather got gnarly. This progressed to wearing a thin beanie under the hood. When the conditions got really wild, my pièce de resistànce, was a fleecy balaclava. It cocooned my head and neck like a warm, snuggly comfort blanket, and covered the gap between my buff and hat. In the worst rain and wind, I pulled the hood tight on my waterproof jacket to protect my face from the elements, which felt reassuring warm.

I like to be prepared so carry an extra layer. I’m nesh and feel the cold easily. I wore a base-layer and lightweight fleece pullover under my waterproof jacket and although I was warm going up Jacob’s Ladder on Kinder, was happy that I did later on. I carried with me two extra layers, a Rab Primaloft jacket and an Inov-8 primaloft smock. Primaloft is ideal as it’s inevitable there’ll be some seepage from the rain, so it retains its thermal capability when wet.

The bad weather often catches people out and causes many runners to retire. If you know you’re a middle-of-the-pack racer and won’t be travelling that fast, it’s worth taking an extra layer as it may make all the difference between finishing or not.

A lightweight waterproof just won’t cut the mustard on a race like the Spine unless you’re one of the front runners. A slightly thicker waterproof will have better thermal capacity and is more robust. This time I wore my Mountain Equipment Kongur MRT Goretex jacket, which is standard team issue. It’s a sturdy, heavier weight jacket and was a perfect choice as I didn’t do that much running so didn’t get too hot, and I did say I felt the cold!

At the Snake Pass

3. Protect your feet.

There’s a lot of gritstone and usually mud along the Pennine Way. The combination is lethal as when the mud gets into your shoes it becomes very abrasive with the gritstone particles and can destroy your feet.

To protect my feet, I wore Inov-8 Roclite Goretex boots to help keep any water out and chose to wear a full length walking gaitor over the top to keep the mud and other bits out. Over the top of my gaiters, I wore my waterproof over-trousers from Wessenden. I pulled these tight around the ankles to give another layer of protection.

The combination worked well for me. My toes were kept warm by the Goretex boots and although my feet still got wet, which I was expecting, the gaiters kept the mud away from my socks. I changed my socks twice, smothering my feet with Vaseline at the beginning and at the checkpoint at Hebden Hay. Thankfully, I didn’t get any blisters.

4. Have access to a hot drink

I bought a last minute purchase of a small clip flask from Alpkit. It was that last minute, I bought it on my way to registration! This proved invaluable as I could carry around a hot drink.  I didn’t need to risk the chill of drinking cold water and it therefore helped me to stay hydrated. It slotted into the side pocket of my rucksack easily so I could grab it really quickly. I found that hot water worked the best in the end rather than tea.

Alpkit Clip Flask

5. Keep a supply of plastic bags and use dry bags.

Your kit will inevitably get wet when the weather turns wild. It’s worth carrying a couple of spare zip lock bags. This will keep any wet kit you’re carrying away from your dry kit you may have in your rucksack.  Extra plastic bin liners and carrier bags are useful in your drop bag too.

I stowed away my sleeping bag inside my bivi bag, which was then inside the sleeping bag stuff sack. To ensure it was kept dry, I stashed it inside a small dry bag. I then packed it inside a larger heavier weight dry bag that lined the whole of my rucksack for double protection. My spare, dry clothes were also placed inside a second dry bag. This kept everything dry that needed to be as the rain did slightly penetrate the large dry bag, but not the second.

6. Recce bits

Having done the Challenger previously I was quite familiar with the route. However, I did still  struggle in the dark and bad weather conditions to find the path that led down to the M62 bridge. What’s obvious in the day light sometimes is just not obvious in the dark!

If time is short before the race, it is worthwhile being selective and identifying what are considered the trickiest sections and would be most beneficial to recce. Try to work out where you’re likely to be when it’s dark, although that may be easier said than done! The best bits of the route are not necessarily the most difficult to navigate, I find it’s generally the field sections that are the most confusing as you can’t see where the next stile or gate is when it’s dark or claggy.

My recommendations would be as follows. However, others may recommend different bits:
  • The section from Charlestown just outside Hebden Bridge to just before Slack where you leave the Pennine Way to reach checkpoint 1. This is when you’re likely to be tired as you’re approaching the CP. It will be dark by this point too. The section initially winds its way steeply up narrow, cobbled alleyways where you could mistakenly think you’re trespassing in someone’s garden.
  • From Cowling over the fields to Lothersdale
  • From Thornton-in-Craven, over more fields, along the canal and crossing more fields before reaching the village of Gargrave.
Thank you to everyone for reading. 
I raised funds for Buxton Mountain Rescue Team as part of the MRT Challenge.
Spine Race MRT Challange the start

Spine Race: MRT Challenge

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The MRT Challenge is part of the Spine Race series and is specifically for mountain rescue team members. Starting in Edale, the challenge is to head north along the Pennine Way for 108 miles finishing in Hawes!

But why?

The Pennine Way provides the opportunity to journey along the backbone of England. Much of the time is spent in remote upland and rugged, wild landscapes. The Spine Race is like no other race. An expedition almost. It’s evocative and provides a great challenge. It’s all about being able to push the limit both mentally and physically covering the difficult terrain under the gnarliest of conditions. There’s shorter daylight hours too with it being in winter and a time limit of 60 hours to get to the finish… so why not?

I was nervous before the start. Questions were buzzing around in my head. Had my training been enough? Will I be able to cope with the lack of sleep…with the cold…with the rain? I’d been here before…It doesn’t get any easier… I knew how tough it was going to be, but do you know what?…that made it even worse!

The start

So…an hour after the start of the main Spine Challenger race, 9am signalled the start of the MRT challenge. We were off! This year, there were six of us ladies in the MRT challenge along with the gents. Would we all make it to the end?

Heading up Jacob’s Ladder and onto Kinder Scout felt quite warm initially. The wind picked up though when crossing the peaty, rocky plateau so much so, I was buffeted from side-to-side at Kinder Downfall, which was famously blowing upwards. I got a face-full of spray as I jumped over the rocks and the wind whipped the hood on my jacket straight off the back of my head!

A quick stop at the Snake Pass and on over Bleaklow. Glossop Mountain Rescue Team had set up a temporary shelter with refreshments at Torside. It was lovely to see my friend, Laura, who had come out to meet me. There were also members of my own team, Buxton, cheering me along. Mel got me a welcome cup of tea and a biscuit, but I didn’t want to outstay my welcome and was soon on my way again.

The next road crossing was at Wessenden where the light was fading rapidly. A quick check in with the safety team and I was on my way again. Then…the rain started! Heading down the valley, I stopped against a rock to pull on my over-trousers. Continuing on down the uneven track in near darkness. I like to let my eyes adjust naturally so keep my head torch off for as long as possible. The only thing was as I got to the left-hand turn where the path leaves the track, I couldn’t see to find my head torch! I thought I’d put it in my left-hand waist pocket…no! What about the right-hand? …no! Front pouch? …no! I’m sure I remember putting it in here somewhere! After a little digging around, there it was in my left-hand pocket after all!

Heading over Marsden Moor I caught up with another competitor, Anne. The weather had taken a turn for the worse. The rain was hammering down on the hood of my jacket. It was a cold, dark, windy night with limited visibility as the clouds swirled all around us as we crossed the exposed moorland. We walked almost in silence only the occasional word spoken, it was difficult to hear anyway. I was just glad of the companionship.

At Brunscough Reservoir car park, I was relieved to see that Oldham Mountain Rescue Team had set up a temporary shelter. It felt good to get out of the rain momentarily. I got a warm drink, ate some cold pizza that I’d bought with me, added an extra layer under my waterproof jacket and whipped out of my rucksack the pièce de résistance, a fleecy balaclava my mum had bought me for Christmas a few years back.

I was snugly tucked away under the balaclava in the mighty hood of my waterproof jacket in my own little headtorch bubble. Occasionally Anne and myself would confirm with each other we were heading in the right direction, but mostly we kept our heads down as we marched over Standedge, White Hill and towards the M62 crossing. A quick check-in with the safety team and we confidently strode off only to find a few minutes later, we couldn’t find the path. I never remembered it being this difficult to find before. It felt like a long time going around in circles in the awful, murky conditions before we eventually retraced our steps and realised we’d missed the slight right-hand fork off the main track that led onto a minor path where we could see the bright orange glow of the lights on the M62 beckoning us on.

Another refreshment stop was provided by Pendle and Rossendale Mountain Rescue Team in the car park of the White House pub. The weather at this point was particularly horrendous, so it was good to escape the wind and the rain, and to add yet another layer under my waterproof jacket.

Off we headed along the surfaced track over Chelburn Moor alongside a series of reservoirs, occasionally taking a swift glance to the left towards the hazy, orange glow of the Greater Manchester conurbation. Eventually, we arrived at the top of Stoodley Pike with its imposing monument that always feels quite eerie in the dark!

Upon arrival at Checkpoint 1 at Hebden Hay, it was time for a complete change out of my drenched clothes into lovely clean, dry ones before I headed into the dining room. Anne and I had agreed to meet up afterwards so we could head back out together. In the meantime, the dining room was warm and cosy so I decided to catch a 15 minute nap and rested my head in my arms.

A touch of glamour! My sparkly, checkpoint footwear!

It was still raining when we headed back out and the underfoot conditions were treacherously muddy. We got lost in the undergrowth trying to locate the narrow path that led steeply upwards. It felt like I was almost on my hands and knees trying to clamber up the slippery, vegetated slope before gaining the road to rejoin the Pennine Way.

As daylight arrived, the rain began to ease off although I felt a little cold ascending up to Top Withans. I opened the door to the bothy where my mate, Drew was sheltering with a fellow competitor. There was also a group of other walkers in there so it was rather cozy. I added another layer and had a bite to eat before we headed back out.

The Spine Race organisers craftily snook a long diversion around the roads to reach Cowling. It was good to see Darren, who had briefly stopped to give his support. The fields approaching Lothersdale were like a mud bath, incredibly slippy. Outside the village pub, there was another rest stop in a gazebo organised by a local running club. I couldn’t fault the service and the broccoli and stilton soup was delicious too!

Caroline grabs a selfie with Anne and me as we leave Lothersdale

On the approach to Gargrave it got dark again. When we arrived in the village, the landlord of the local pub invited us in to use the facilities. I wasn’t going to turn down the chance to use a proper toilet so a quick visit ensued. Next stop was a visit to the infamous Coop store in the village. Who ate all the pies?! Disappointingly, the shop was bereft of hot pies so I had to settle for a bag of crisps instead!

Crossing the fields to Malham felt a bit tedious and repetitive. I was falling asleep on my feet. A weird  sensation with my head literally nodding-off as I walked. I could see two head torches in the distance. It was my fellow BMRT team member, Kerry and her husband, Mike providing moral support. A welcome sight in the middle of the night.

I knew there were public toilets in Malham village and wondered if they would be open. Thankfully, they were and provided great floor space for a 15 minute power nap! Re-energised we almost sprinted to the top of Malham Cove although it didn’t last long!

Checkpoint 1.5 was in the Field Centre just beyond Malham Tarn. On the track leading up to the centre, the lead runner in the Spine Race, John Kelly over took us, and cheered us along as he passed. There was only hot water available which was perfect for my hydrated camping meal. A melee of other runners were around tending their feet, drinking tea and eating a variety of camping meals. A time limit was set on the duration that could be spent here as it was only a small room. We managed to blag some space in a dusty, old storeroom around the back of the building. It was on a cold, hard stone floor, not very luxurious or even comfortable, but again it did the trick for a much needed power-nap.

The ascent of Fountains Fell seemed to take a long time and on the way up I could have sworn I saw a grounded Spitfire in the swirling mist. I shook my head only to realise it was my vivid imagination. The descent felt like it went quite quickly though, maybe because it was now getting light. Although it was still as I remembered it, tricky at times especially with the uneveness of the rocky limestone path that was slippery in places from the heavy rain.

The climb up Pen-y-ghent went quite quickly. Although the scrambly section at the top felt a little awkward as I was carrying my trekking poles and couldn’t be bothered to fold them away! Before long, we were over the summit and heading down the long, rocky track towards the final safety check-in point at Horton-in-Ribblesdale.

Darren was waiting for me at the school as he was the safety co-ordinator at this stopover. I had some soup and faffed about for a bit before leaving to make the final push for the finish. Anne and I agreed to continue separately as she wanted to spend a little bit more time sorting herself out and resting before leaving. I wished her well and then I was gone.

 

The Cam High Road is an old Roman track. It climbs steadily upwards for what seems like an eternity to around the height of 600m. The wind started to pick up at this point as storm Brendon began to roll in. I ducked behind a dry stone wall for some shelter as I needed a drink. I polished off a slice of my mum’s delicious Christmas cake that I’d carried along with me too.

Battling storm Brendon

Just before the left-hand turn along the West Cam Road, I was really getting buffeted and knocked side-ways by the wind. At Ten End, the route leaves the track and descended on a slippy, muddy path towards the village of Hawes. I was really having to brace myself against the wind to maintain my composure. I was digging my trekking poles solidly into the ground to be able to stay upright although I did slip at one point where I managed a comical 360° belly-flop kind-of-roll before getting back onto my feet.

The light began to fade, the rain started to hammer it down even more as the storm became more violent, and by the time I had reached the edge of the village, it was dark. I took a rather convoluted way to get to the finish although I did manage to run a little as I headed down the main street towards the finish at the Market Hall. The claps and cheers from the spectators at the end is something that will live with me forever. Team member, Neil, proudly presented me with my Spine Race medal before I was whisked indoors and out of the awful weather to dry off. Sadly, there were a large number of retirements in the race due to the conditions so I was pleased to be one of the only two ladies who completed the MRT Challenge.

 

I’d like to say a big thank you to all the wonderful Spine Race volunteers at the checkpoints or out and about on the course. My thanks also go to my fellow Buxton Mountain Rescue Team members for their support and to the other Mountain Rescue teams for providing additional refreshments, shelter and encouragement en-route. It was greatly appreciated.

If you wish to read my Spine Challenger: Top Tips click here.

 

I was filmed at various locations en-route and I’d like to say thanks to Luke and his friends from Salford University. They are kindly giving their time to produce a social media live broadcast, which will help to raise publicity and funds for the team. My Spine Race video will feature as part of the broadcast. Follow Buxton Mountain Rescue Team on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Further details will be on social media when the broadcast will take place post Covid-19.

My Spine Race MRT Challenge raised funds for Buxton Mountain Rescue Team.
If you would like to donate, please click: 

Buxton Mountain Rescue Team logo

2016-08-22 11.25.38

The TDS Race – Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc

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The TDS  (Sur les Traces des Ducs de Savoie) is one of the five UTMB races and is classified as difficult. It’s known as the wild alternative to the CCC and UTMB and is a highly technical race set in the remote and picturesque surroundings of the Italian and French Alps.

 

Race Statistics

119km (73.9 miles) in length with 7,250m (23,786 feet) of height gain

  • Number at the start: 1794 including 174 women (9.70% of participants) 
  • Number of finishers: 1060 (59.09% of participants) including 111 women (10.47% of all finishers) (63.79% finishing rate for the women) 
  • Total number of DNFs (Do not finish): 734 (40.91% of participants)

My alarm clock went off at 2.45am and it felt like I’d hardly slept at all. I was nervous and  had packed and repacked my rucksack the previous day so I knew I had plenty of time to get ready without rushing. I got on the bus at 3.50am for the 40 or so minute journey to the start, which went through the Mont Blanc tunnel to Cormayeur. The bus dropped us all off at the Leisure Centre, which was a sprawling mass of runners who were either sat or lying on every last inch of floor space, trying desperately to catch up on sleep, relaxing, making last minute preparations or generally nervously faffing about before the start at 6am.

After a count down in French, the race began. It was barely light as we set off through the busy streets, which were lined with cheering supporters and the ringing of the ubiquitous cow bells. Soon, we were out of town and heading up a steep climb on a track. It was a jostle at times so I kept a cautious look out for any stray poles being in such close proximity to other racers.

After the first checkpoint at the Col Checrouit, we took a single track path and continued to climb. As the field was still tightly packed there was plenty of queuing but this gave me the opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery on the opposite side of the valley as the sun was rising.

The route followed the UTMB route in reverse until Lac Combal. Upon arrival at the checkpoint, I topped up my water bottle and took a few Tuc biscuits, the first of many!  The sun was now hot as I headed off in a snaking line up the narrow rocky path that led up to the highest point on the course, the Col Chavannes at 2603m.  A long, dusty descent followed on a seamingly never-ending track and I was pleased to be able to over take lots of other runners on this section. As I descended the heat started to intensify and I filled my bottle up from a cool mountain stream gushing at the side of the path to stay hydrated. In the valley, there was a grassy meadow that led into a woodland and the canopy of the trees provided welcome shade from the heat.
After ascending again, the route ran around the edge of the blue waters of Lac de Verney before a short, sharp ascent on a narrow path climbing up through shrubbery to reach the next checkpoint near to the road at Col du Petit Saint Bernard. After a quick toilet stop, I made a swift transition through the checkpoint stopping only to drink several cups of coke before grabbing a few more Tuc biscuits, a piece of dried bread and some cheese, which I ate on my way out.

Shortly after leaving the checkpoint, the route followed a track and then a narrow dusty descent on a path leading to the village of Saint Germain, where a rep was handing out cans of Red Bull. Not my favourite drink but it was surprisingly refreshing!  The heat was stiflingly intense as we descended into Bourg Saint Maurice and the sun was penetratingly hot as the temperatures soared to well over 30 degrees. I could only equate it to being like inside a fan assisted oven as even the breeze was hot!

Eventually, I arrived at the Checkpoint in the centre of Bourg and it was horrendously busy with runners and their supporters jostling for space. I look 15 minutes rest here and found a small space to sit whilst I drank more coke and ate a few more Tuc biscuits and dried bread. My food strategy was to keep it simple at the checkpoints and supplement inbetween with my own food, mainly malt loaf, dried fruit and the occasional Eat Natural bar.
 On the way out there was a compulsory kit check where I had to show my mobile phone, headtorch and space blanket. I always carry a tiny foil survival bag instead of a blanket but it was right at the bottom of my pack and it took me the best part of 5 minutes to repack my bag before I set off on the dauntingly steep climb.
Setting off up hill through the town, spectators cheered as I walked past. Soon the climb was out onto the open mountainside. I wasn’t looking forward to the ascent at all as I knew it was about 2000m to the top, which put into perspective is higher than any mountain in the UK as Ben Nevis is only 1345m high!  To make matters worse, the sun was pounding down, the temperatures were oppressively hot and the lack of air combined to make it completely energy zapping. Every now and then the path meandered through trees and in the sanctity of the shade, other runners had stopped to rest and drink water before returning back out into the full sun.
Worryingly, it felt like there was a constant stream of people returning back to Bourg, I could only assume they’d had enough and were retiring. Runners looked after each other and anybody who was sat down or lying in the shade was checked, Ca va? by others to make sure they were ok. I was dripping with sweat from every pore in my body and at one point my right knee cap was so frustratingly itchy from the sweat irritating a small insect bite, I could’ve screamed! I found it both mentally and physically draining. It was a struggle to keep moving upwards and to put one foot in front of the other. I began to suffer and felt a little dizzy so I decided to sit in the shade until it wore off. Several times I was asked if I was ok. I briefly wondered about turning around myself but tried to banish the negative thoughts and knew I had to set myself little goals to reach the next clump of trees or the next tussock of grass before stopping to rest again.
I’d drank a litre of water since setting off from Bourg so it was a relief to see a water station up ahead as there were no streams on this climb to replenish my bottle. Still upwards, I was glad when the sun eventually went down behind the mountains and the temperatures began to drop a little.
I reached the Col de la Forclaz as the light began to fade and soon after, the path became rocky and scrambly in places. I soon began to chill and like many, stopped briefly to put on my waterproof jacket and get my headtorch out. It was a welcome site to reach the Passeur Pralagnon at 2567m. By this time, it was now dark. The safety team at the summit were friendly and offered coke and crisps. I was told to put my poles away before the steep descent as they would get in the way on the scramble down, which was interesting to say the least in the dark. The descent had been roped up in places to provide a handrail and was supervised. As the steepness receded it was still blocky with loose scree which reminded me of the terrain on the descent from Great Gable to Windy Gap in the Lakes.

 

Eventually I gained the flat track in the valley below that led directly to the next checkpoint at the Cormet de Roseland. Upon arrival, I checked my watch and gave myself 15 minutes. I picked up my drop bag, some apple purée, dried bread, more Tuc biscuits, coke and sat down. I changed my top and my socks, re-vaselining my feet between eating and drinking. The 15 minutes soon went quickly by and I was back out and on my way again.
 
The path up to the Col de le Sauce was muddy and rutted but then descended through a huge ravine and onto the next checkpoint at La Gitte. It was at this point that I retired last year with an injured knee so I wanted to make haste and move swiftly on. Another steep climb up to the Col de Joly and as soon as I got up high, I could hear the sound of loud music from the next checkpoint in the distance. Rather disappointingly the course didn’t take the direct route. I could see the snaking line of headtorches meandering rather protractedly up and around the valley first! 
I had a quick stop at this checkpoint with more dried bread consumed although I did feel a little nauseous now and had difficulty swallowing it. I ate some chocolate coated crystallised ginger, which seemed to help keep the nausea at bay. Back out into the darkness, I descended the track down towards Les Contamines. I was so focused on running that I never even noticed day break! 

The run through Les Contamines was flat and in the shade.  I didn’t hang around at the penultimate checkpoint. Upon leaving the village there was an immediate steep ascent through a pine forest followed by a short drop down to the small hamlet of Miage. The final big climb then loomed steeply up ahead. The first part was still in the shade and passed relatively quickly but as soon as I got higher the sun was on my back and I could immediately feel my energy draining away with the heat as the path continued to zig-zag it’s way steeply up. I dug deep and arrived at the top of the Col de Tricot where there was a mini checkpoint with plenty of coke and water on offer. I refilled my bottle and necked a quarter of litre of it down before refilling it again and setting off quickly on the rocky and uneven descent.

Before long, the path crossed a spectacular suspension bridge over a tumbling waterfall above the gorge from the Bionnassay Glacier. The running was fabulous through the woodland and presented an interesting challenge as it was steep, technical and greasy in places. I impetuously folded my poles as I thought they were no longer required but then went slipping and sliding down the path almost taking out an older French runner in my tracks with me. I was very apologetic both in English and pidgeon French but thankfully he was very understanding in my foolhardiness.

I arrived at the final checkpoint in Les Houches and swiftly transitioned through. Thinking ok, good, only nine flat kilometres left to do! Was I wrong! The track was undulating all the way into Chamonix and it was hot in the valley despite being in the shade of the trees for most of the way. It passed in front of the rocks at Gaillands and then onto a minor road. The end was within my grasp but I couldn’t run as much as I would have liked as it was just too damn hot so a power walk would have to do! I turned into the main streets of Chamonix and made myself run faster overtaking others in the meantime. The atmosphere was amazing as shoppers, cafe dwellers and spectators were clapping and cheering me as I made my way towards the end. I rounded the corner and there it was, the finishing line. My friend, Paul joined me taking photos of the last 100 meters and as I crossed the finish line, gave me a big hug. I’d done it! I needed a drink!

The unfinished business from last year was completed. It wasn’t pretty nor was it fast, but I’d done it! That made me happy and I felt the tears welling up in my eyes with the relief of having made it!

I collected my gilet, which after DNFing last year felt great. Even though jokingly it does resemble a bin bag, it’ll still take pride of place in my wardrobe. 

 

Clare’s Pennine Journey…Breaking the Spine!

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It started in January 2013. What? The obsession. I was browsing on Facebook and there it was, a race along the backbone of Britain, the Spine. Intrigued? I certainly was. I followed the runners progress throughout the week and when entries opened for the following year, I decided to sign up for the Challenger.

Nervously, I trained. Running around the Peak District with a rucksack laden with kit. I gathered more lighter weight gear to help make the task easier and not to overburden my  petit frame.  I’m never confident about my navigational abilities but can get by with focus and concentration. There was something inside, the ambition and drive that so wanted to be on the start line. When my partner, Darren, decided to enter too, that made it a bonus, we’d support each other and run together.

The start of the Challenger, 2016 Photo courtesy of John Bamber

The start of the Challenger, 2016
Photo courtesy of John Bamber

There we were at the start. The weather forecast had given it out to be fine but as we waited at Edale for the race to begin, it started to drizzle. Off we went, racing across the fields and as we climbed Jacob’s Ladder, it turned into full on blizzard conditions. Fun! It was winter after all but it caught everyone by surprise. On the summit of Kinder, the snow relentlessly fell and many of the competitors started to look like abominable snowmen as the snow settled both upon them and on the ground. This made conditions underfoot slippery and unfortunately, it claimed one or two competitors when they fell and injured themselves. We checked they were ok and continued, knowing their race had come to an abrupt end all too soon. On the approach to the Snake Pass, we saw several members of the Mountain Rescue Team walking towards us going to help them out. Heroes!

On Kinder Photo courtesy of Summit Fever

On Kinder
Photo courtesy of Summit Fever

Dusk arrived rather too rapidly just after Black Hill and after refilling my water bladder at Wessenden, it soon became dark.  My bladder then decided to leak with water dribbling out of my pack leaving me with a wet leg, great!  We started to get cold as the temperatures dropped quickly but onwards we continued throughout the night.

On the descent from Stoodley Pike, Darren developed a painful knee which limited our progress. By now the temperature was freezing and we could see our breath in the light of our headtorchs. I suddenly became concerned when Darren said watch out for the elephants! Cold and mildly hypothermic he added another layer and thankfully soon warmed up as we ascended out of the valley.

Darren’s knee got worse during the day after Checkpoint 1. Steadily we continued through Bronte Country and soon it was dark again. The path across Ickornshaw Moor was murky, bleak and cold. Then in the middle of the flagged path was a huge poo! Yes human, yuk!  Disgusted, we ranted as to why they couldn’t have stepped to one side of the path? We nicknamed it ‘poo path’ ever since then!

We arrived on the outskirts of Cowling and had a quick bite to eat in the road side shelter. I felt jaded as it rained heavily and tiredness was starting to take its toll. We continued on across the muddy fields, slipping and sliding and by now I was quite miserable. We got to Pinhaw Beacon, it was windy and cold and we’d simply had enough! At the next road crossing we jumped into the Marshalls vehicle and that was that, we called it a day.

Darren on the Safety Team in 2015

Darren on the Safety Team in 2015

Undeterred, I entered again in 2015. This time, I would be racing on my own as Darren was on the Safety Team. I’d learnt lots of lessons from the previous year. I was better prepared, fitter and more determined that it wasn’t going to beat me again! I new I had to manage those demons that sit on your shoulder when you’re tired, shouting my legs hurt, it’s cold, I want some sleep!

So there I was, back on the start line for the 2015 Challenger and it was a truly epic race. Much like the previous year it started to rain at Edale and after we set off, we were treated to driving heavy rain, horizontal hail and gale force winds that threatened to blow me off my feet at any moment.

Heading out of Edale at the start

Heading out of Edale at the start

I buddied up with Sarah and Peter just before Stoodley Pike and we stayed together for the rest of the race, which was great. We all went through low points at different times so we bolstered each other and kept spirits high including singing as we ascended Pen-y-Gent!

Progress was slow but I didn’t have any ambition over time. I’d never been this far before so it was a journey of discovery for me to see whether my mind and body would behave and get me through. All I wanted to do was get to the finish in one piece. And I did. The wind was unrelenting throughout.  On the Cam High Road, it presented us with one final challenge as we were blasted, battered and bashed around and it was a tough fight to stay upright but I won! My trekking poles were a godsend.

I was shattered but so happy and relieved to be at Hawes and a bonus for Sarah and myself to be awarded joint second ladies.

2016 was a year of consolidation. My ambition is to complete the full Spine Race so I want to ensure I am fully prepared and as part of my preparation I decided to help out on this year’s race as part of the Safety Team. This included spending an overnight stop at the Auchope Refuge in the Cheviots with temperatures well below freezing. I had a fabulous week supporting, which proved invaluable as I was able to talk to the other competitors to enable me to develop my own strategy for next year. So…

…all that stands between me and Kirk Yetholm is 268 miles with 287 gates, 392 stiles and 204 bridges! Wish me luck!

Previous blogs:
http://www.mountainsinmind.com/spine-challenger-kit-list-and-things
http://www.mountainsinmind.com/the-spine-challenger

Mountain Skills – Kinder Scout

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KInder Scout

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

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

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)

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Before darkness

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

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

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

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

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

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!

A sunny Lake District

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Fulham F.C. on top of Scafell Pike

Fulham F.C. on top of Scafell Pike

We took an opportunity to combine leading a 3 Peak Challenge group from Fulham F.C. up Scafell Pike with a weekend of climbing and running.  The forecast was for good weather, which as usual they got wrong…  It was fantastic weather.

Scout Crag - Langdale Valley

Scout Crag – Langdale Valley

So Friday saw us heading north along the M6 with a quick stop in Ambleside for supplies and some shinny stuff from the climbers shop.  It wasn’t long before we were climbing  the ‘2nd route’ on Scout Crag in the Langdale Valley.  A pretty easy climb with magnificent views up and down the valley.  We made a couple of route choices which saw us briefly on the ‘1st route’ and topping out we chilled for a few minutes admiring the views on this awesome evening in the sun.  With a lovely meal at the Stickle Barn, it was time to head over Honister Pass to Wasdale head, our base for the next 2 days.

Great Gable

Great Gable

Great Gable

A top Great Gable

 

An early morning start saw us heading up towards Great Gable via Sty Head.  I’d aimed to run/walk up 3,000 meters over the weekend as I need to build even more stamina in my legs for the Ultra 100k in September.  We reached the summit and were rewarded with amazing panoramic views of the lake district.  We headed down to Beck head and very fast decent back to Wasdale Head.  I was trialing my new Adidas Riot 4 trail shoes, which appeared to be handling the scree very well.  A quick stop for a drink at the Wasdale Head Inn we were back at the campsite to chill before we welcomed Fulham F.C. to guide them up Scafell Pike on the 2nd Peak of the challenge.

Scafell Pike and Scafell catching the evening sun

Scafell Pike and Scafell catching the evening sun

After a introductory briefing with Fulham F.C. we set off at 20:25 to climb Scafell Pike.  The evening was very close and warm and I’d wished I had kept my shorts on.   The team were fit, unfortunate

Fulham F.C. on top of Scafell Pike

Fulham F.C. on top of Scafell Pike

Looking towards Keswick and Skiddaw

Looking towards Keswick and Skiddaw

one of the members had to be taken back to the mini bus at Wasdale

Team Fulham F.C. heading up Scafell Pike

Team Fulham F.C. heading up Scafell Pike

Head as he had pick up a knee injury on Ben Nevis. We made great progress and the views were great in the evening light.  We were rewarded with views across the tops of the lake land summits and it never really got dark until way past 11pm.  There were many other teams on the hill that night and climbers camping under Scafell Crags ready for an early start on Sunday.  The team reached the summit in 2hrs 20mins, which for guys who have never walked in the mountains before was a real achievement. We could see the street lights as far away as Fleetwood and Keswick.  After a bite to eat, adding an extra layer and putting on our head torches we started the descent, passing other charity climbers heading  up we offered moral support.  The team were back at the mini bus in a great time of 4hous 25 mins.  Great effort guys.

Climbing up Mickledore

Climbing up Mickledore

Sunday saw us rise a little later and ascended   back up to Scafell Pike via Mickledore and then onto Scafell via Lords Rake.  The skies were a little moody this morning and after applying the sun cream we headed back up Brown Tongue then under Scafell Crags. A scramble up steep scree placed on top of Mickledore.

Scafell Pike in the Mist

Scafell Pike in the Mist

We summited Scafell Pike in mist and was welcomed by a surprising number of Cray fly’s and small flying insects lifted by the thermals from the valley bottom.  A quick run back to Mickledore we exchanged pleasantries with another runner and climbers we head along the East Face Traverse.  We passed under crags were we could the rattle of climbing metal on rock and a couple of dogs waiting for the climbing masters to return to the start of the route.

A scary looking Lords Rake

A scary looking Lords Rake

We were waiting for 2 other people to exit Lords Rake when from above a shout of ‘ BELOW’ and a big thud as a football sized rock landed in the gully.  This got the heart pumping and other areas of the body going.

The Top of Lords Seat

The Top of Lords Seat

 

Looking down Lords Rake.

Looking down Lords Rake.

After a very , very quick climb we reached the top of the gully and  a took a little time to relax and breath.

We reached the summit of Scafell which is a lot quieter than its bigger brother again we were welcomed by fly’s and mist.

Clare on Scafell summit

Clare on Scafell summit

Darren on Scafell Summit

Darren on Scafell Summit

 

We took a bearing and headed down a direct route used by runners on the Bob Graham round.  My riot 4’s were a little loose as I had only worn a thin pair of socks, still they were great on scree and dry grass.

Looking for the most direct route down

Looking for the most direct route down

We then chose a very direct route down to the valley floor and after a splash of water on the head we found our self’s back at the campsite and home 🙁 .

Scafell Pike and Scafell

Scafell Pike and Scafell

When you can combine your passion with your passion magic happens.

A great weekend and many more to come.

Darren

Shinning Tor Fell Race

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Wednesday 15th May saw us standing on the start line of the Shinning Tor Fell race part of the Goyt Valley series.  This was my first running of this course and due to nesting birds the route had been shortened.

After registering at the Errwood sailing club we walked across the dam  to the start.  The rain that had, at some stage been hail had stopped and given way to a cloudy evening with a chilly wind and after much deliberation I decided to man it u and run just in my running vest. Just as well as the climb up towards the drop down to Shooters Clough was warming. This was a great little course to get the hill fit training.  The descent down Shooters Clough was fast, wet and very muddy in places – nice.  Then short, but felt like a long climb up through the trees to Foxlow Edge and on to the descent   Now this was a very fast run down hill next the road on street, and very muddy.  Then a quick steep drop to the dam wall and a little climb up on tarmac to the finish line and ‘Cake’.  I had to wait a few minutes before eating a slice until my insides had calmed down after the last hard push.

Capital Adventure ‘

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London Marathon

London Marathon

‘If your trying to break the human spirit, you’ve picked on the wrong group of people‘

It was back in 2011, when for the first time I knew somebody who was running the London marathon. I watched the race on BBC iPlayer whilst making my juices and getting ready for the day. To watch the event unfold on my screen, runners on the start line, crossing Tower Bridge and passing the houses of parliament on a glorious, albeit hot day in April, bought goose bumps and the feeling that one day I’d like to run the Virgin London Marathon.

That year was a massive change for me in many ways, which continues to this day! Loosing 48 lbs of weight, getting fitter & joining a running club to name a few. At the time of the London Marathon in April 2011 I’d yet to enter my first competitive race in my new body.

Turn the clock forward and its now Sunday 21st April 2013. I’m nervous, excited, missed train connection, I find myself on Blackheath common at the start of the Virgin London Marathon. I’m here! 2 years of dreaming, 2 other marathons ( New York & Edinburgh) I find myself here. I pinch myself, I’m going to run the VLM, I can do it.

Now as a newbie runner with only 2 years of serious running there’s one valuable lesson I’ve learnt – to control the mind ( well on the running track anyway). If we believe in ourselves we can do, be, have anything, the more we do something the easier it gets.

The nerves set in as they do on most races and after visiting the lovely open air urinals ( 3 times), pre marathon iPod tunes ( Rocky,Cold Play), 20 mins slow warm up and dynamic stretches it was time to take our place in Pen 4, Blue zone. Checking I have enough Gels and going over the race plan it was time to pay our respects to the victims of the Boston Marathon Bombs. A very moving experience and as one Marathon runners t-shirt said ‘ If your trying to break the human spirit, you’ve picked on the wrong group of people’.

At 10am the gun went and within 4 minutes I was over the start line, pressed start on my Garmin GPS and set the screen to virtual runner / average pace (8:40). The first 3 miles were very chaotic, runners weaving in and out, on and off pavements, tripping over traffic cones and each other, scrambling at water stations. The day appeared to be getting warmer, with the sun coming out the race organisers and fire fighters treating the runners to a well earned cold shower.

Further into the course, zones Green and Red merged and now 34,000 runners were together on the streets of London. We passed the Cutty Sark were 2 good friends were there having breakfast and supporting the runners. It was great to see them at mile 6 which propelled me forward, then to be greeted by, from what I can only describe as a wall of noise from the deeply packed crowdsthrough Greenwich. The crowds were fantastic all the way round the route, bands, cheering, music – amazing support which still gives me goose bumps now.

On the New York Marathon I went for the experience and to show to myself I could do it. I took my pocket video to record the experience, my friend who’d I’d watch run the London in 2011 said to me ‘it’s a race Ode, don’t take the bloody camera’. I ignored him! The first marathon and if the only marathon you run, go for the experience and drink it in.

This Marathon I aimed to enjoy the atmosphere and focus on a Personnel Best (PB). NYCM, I’d done 4:14. I wanted sub 4:00. My watch was set at a pace of 8:40, which in hindsight was to fast.

Running over Tower Bridge, the cheering crowds noise level amplified. This spurred us all on passing the ½ marathon mark and on towards Canary Wharf.

Mile 15/16 I felt myself going backwards and no matter what I did I couldn’t recover the time. I was loosing about 20-30 seconds a mile – had I gone off to fast?

Passing through Canary Wharf was amazing and the crowds felt like they were above you and it was time again to head back towards Tower Bridge, Embankment and the Mall. Passing mile 21 I saw Clare, Charlotte and Phoebie cheering me on, which helped as it was  starting to hurt. Taking gels to give me more energy and taking just enough water on board, we passed through the tunnel onto embankment.

I quickly looked to spot Big Ben as I’d visualized running past it, and where we’d watched the Ladies Olympic Marathon on a very wet day in August. I found it on my far left, thinking ooops there’s still a long way to go. Still, I can only take one step at a time, and with each step I get closer than I was before. So head down and focused on keeping moving forward I neared Big Ben, my goal. It felt like a lifetime until I finally turned right passing Big Ben into Parliament Square and on to Birdcage walk.

My original plan was to step it up a bit as only less than a mile to go, I couldn’t, I had nothing left in the tank, I’d spent all my energy!

Keeping focused on completing the 26.2 miles without stopping and with each step the crowds got louder, the Mall got closer, passing Buckingham Palace and turned the corner and there it was –

THE FINISH LINE – A new PB 4:02:48

I life time experience and memories to last a life time.

(next time I know what I need to do to get sub 3:50) 😉

Clare runs the 3 Shires LDWA

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Clare

 

Having completed the 3 Shires twice previously, the 29 mile route last year and the 22 mile route in 2011, I was back on familiar territory and in an event that was virtually on my doorstep.

As I arrived at the Community Centre, the walkers were about to set off at 8am, I was met by a cheery car park attendant, shown where to park and registered for the event in the Hall where I was offered a cup of tea. After chatting to a couple of other runners, my nerves were starting to take over, I checked and double checked my rucksack and made two trips to the loo before we called to the start. After a few brief words, we were off on this lovely spring morning, heading upwards to Gun Hill.

As the sun was shining, I’d opted to leave my softshell in the car but still carried my waterproof in my rucksack. I was wearing a long sleeve base layer from Aldi  and an old faithful Adidas technical t-shirt, Outdoor Design gloves, long Sub-4 running tights and Inov8 x-Talons.

After summiting Gun Hill, we headed across to the Roaches climbing up on to the ridge past the Don Willans Memorial Hut to the Upper Tier, Doxey Pool and the trig point to descend along the paving slabs to Checkpoint 1 at Roach End.

It was here my Sea to Summit folding cup was invaluable as no cups were provided (we were warned!), I had several cups of squash and grabbed my now traditional 5Jaffacakes. A standing joke from last year’s event with my friend Lou, who I was running with then, who guiltily said she’d eaten 2 Jaffacakes until I laughed and confessed to eating 5!

Setting off again heading down towards the Back Forest, the ground was frozen solid and very icy in places together with the remaining snow, making it treacherously slippy at times. The route then dropped down to the River Dane, a feature which we would see on a number of occasions throughout the day.

Upon crossing the Dane we headed to Gradbach Youth Hostel and onwards towards the 3 Shires Head. It was whilst heading down this old bumpy track with the sun in my eyes, I put my foot on what I thought was a rock, but in fact it was ice and took a tumble. Never mind, I picked myself back up very quickly, carried on and thought my pride was intact as nobody had seen, only to be caught up by a couple of guys a few minutes later, who asked if I was ok as that was quite a tumble!

 

3 Shires Head
The meeting of Cheshire, Derbyshire & Staffordshire

We crossed the 3 Shires Head, an old pack horse bridge, where the 3 counties of Staffordshire,Cheshire and Derbyshire all met then headed towards Shutlingsloe, where we had the option to climb up to the summit or head straight to Checkpoint 2. I chose to add the additional two miles and made my way up the steep but delightful climb to the summit for the impressive views where we could see for miles. As I climbed I had a couple of handfuls of trail mix (chocolate coated raisins  nuts and seeds) just to give me that extra boost of energy before dropping over the summit and down the slabby path before heading back towards the road then the slight ascent up to Checkpoint 2 at Wildboarclogh VillageHall.

Shutlingsloe

On the way to Shutligsloe

On entering the Village Hall, I was greeted by LDWA members and offered a variety of lovely cakes, buttered scones and cheesy oatcakes. I (sadly) declined the oatcakes and opted for a scone, which I knew was more digestable on the run.

After a few minutes rest and rehydration, I thanked themarshallsand made my exit and set off on the Cheshire Loop.

I overtook a couple of the walkers but then had no sight of anyone else on the event for about the next 5 miles. I’d only ran this loop once previously last year and knew it was quite intricate route finding and didn’t want to make a mistake on the navigation. I nearly come a cropper when I went ankle deep in some mud and felt myself wobble backwards for a second. I shouted ‘No!’ out loud to myself and in an instant managed to regain my balance. Phew, thanks goodness for that!

The landmarks on this section were the three pubs that we passed. Firstly, the Hanging Gate, where I dreamt about the fabulous homemade bread and butter pudding consumed on a previous visit, when I’d ran part of the Gritstone Trail with a couple of friends. Secondly, the Wild Boar and then finally the Crag Inn before heading back to Wildboarclough Village Hall and Checkpoint 3.

Another scone, or was it two, and several cups of squash later, I headed back out of the village hall for the final 7 miles. The route then climbs up steadily and crosses the main road before what is normally quite a fast descent on a track heading towards Gradbach Youth Hostel again. This year, there was lots of snow which made it slow going under foot as it was starting to get quite soft but my Inov8 trainers provided plenty of grip.

After the Youth Hostel, we met with the River Dane again and ran along an adjacent  path which was ankle deep with mud in places. The route picked it way past Luds Church, a gorge in the rocks and a place of historical worship. We then headed past the Hanging Stone before dropping back down to Danebridge. As I ran past the Wincle Brewery, I started to dream about an ice cold beer! Continuing through the fish farm and catching up with the River Dane again, crossing it beside a small but impressive weir. This was where we parted company with the river. After a short, steep climb my legs were beginning to tire. I was dreading the concrete track that was coming up as  I seemed to remember it felt unrelenting as it was slightly up hill.

On this occasion, I caught a glimpse of two walkers in the distance and this motivated me. I focused on catching them up. Little did I know, that one of them was Darren, who had ran from home to meet me. He had stopped to chat to a guy as he walked the last little bit. By this point I was at 28.5 miles and had my head down and it was only when I heard ‘Come on Miss H, not far to go now!’ did I realise it was Darren. Nice surprise!

I ran past them and turned onto the final stretch of road at which point Darren caught me up. Pulling me along for the final stretch, we ran by several walkers who were on the shorter routes, to the finish.

Back at the Village Hall there was a warm welcome. A lovely spread had been laid on for the finishers, which included a variety of delicious salads, lovely bread followed by a selection of very tempting puddings. Mmm! Just what was required after running 29 miles. My time was 7 hours 20 minutes, which was a little slower than last year but I was happy with that given the underfoot conditions. A great event, which I thoroughly enjoyed and as it’s a local event, I’ll be back next year for more

3 Shires LDWA

Some Photo’s courtesy of Brian Fisher

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