Thursday, December 28, 2006
Pappert Well Sun 24th Dec
Easy trail run this morning from the Vale Leisure Centre up the Pappert trail with a pause at the trig point and then a wee wander out through the woods for a look over the moors. Very calm once away from the housing estates, no noise or wind just the rhythm of breathing.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Balloch Park Sun 17th Dec
The usual Christmas holiday continued with a Sunday run of less than an hour. Round Balloch Park, avoiding the flooded lochside path up heart attack hill and out the North Gate turning along towards Botourich and coming back in via the new Whinney hill track. Through the Park back to the car park in the Moss O Balloch. Just about freezing, high brocken cloud, snow on the tops of the Luss hills and the Ben.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Stoneymollen Sun 10th Dec
With high winds and rain forecast lazyness and common sense prevailed and after a look out the window confirmed the weather gave up the usual early rise for a well deserved lie in. So it meant another run in the dark, this time leaving after 8 for an anticlockwise loop up the Stoneymollen.
Once off the road and onto the path the headtorch went on to navigate the slippery rocks on the way up. Traverse along the ridge hard work in the mud so took it nice and steady avoiding the sheep and startled by a bird taking off beside my feet. High winds once out from behind the trees so head down and plod on through the bomb crater past the trig point and down through the swamp. The worst part is just before the climb up to the fort as it is trackless and crossed by several ditches which I was lucky enough to avoid.
Slow jog down, back along to the radiomast and then its onto the farm track, hard work done apart from the small climbs up to the road in front of the cemetry.
Once off the road and onto the path the headtorch went on to navigate the slippery rocks on the way up. Traverse along the ridge hard work in the mud so took it nice and steady avoiding the sheep and startled by a bird taking off beside my feet. High winds once out from behind the trees so head down and plod on through the bomb crater past the trig point and down through the swamp. The worst part is just before the climb up to the fort as it is trackless and crossed by several ditches which I was lucky enough to avoid.
Slow jog down, back along to the radiomast and then its onto the farm track, hard work done apart from the small climbs up to the road in front of the cemetry.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Run in the Buff and the dark Sun 3rd Dec
Short late Sunday afternoon run, set off just before 4 and ran a clockwise route past the radiomast and on up to the fort. Wind & rain blootering me so on with the Buff in its balaclava mode before crossing Overton & Bromley moors trying to avoid the swamps.
Although getting dark it was easy to spot the path as it was a greasy muddy stripe, ran just beside it on the grass and heather where it was easier to maintain a relatively upright posture most of the time. Had to hurdle over a sheeps skeleton and then the last 3 sunken ditches with only minor emersion (knee deep) and shoes intact.
At the top of the Stoneymollen a break in the clouds and rain meant the moon came out to light the way down this rocky track. Ran along the bypass to Christie Park where the headtorch had to be switched on to find the way in and along the narrow path through the trees and back home. Good run to blow the cobwebs away and get the blood flowing again.
Although getting dark it was easy to spot the path as it was a greasy muddy stripe, ran just beside it on the grass and heather where it was easier to maintain a relatively upright posture most of the time. Had to hurdle over a sheeps skeleton and then the last 3 sunken ditches with only minor emersion (knee deep) and shoes intact.
At the top of the Stoneymollen a break in the clouds and rain meant the moon came out to light the way down this rocky track. Ran along the bypass to Christie Park where the headtorch had to be switched on to find the way in and along the narrow path through the trees and back home. Good run to blow the cobwebs away and get the blood flowing again.
Balloch Park X Country Sat 2nd Dec
Welcome weather window for Saturday mornings 3 lap race round Balloch Park, gone were the gales and downpours of the last few days replaced by damp calm. Suprisingly puddle free with only 3 or 4 patches of gloo.
Scenic course with a good mix of short and long hills along with a few soft bits. The new path along the bottom is a bit easier than the old muddy one but in general the surface underfoot was quite soft & slippy which saps energy from the legs, so no overall gain.
1st lap too quick and suffered with each lap progressively slower to finish in just over 37 mins.
Scenic course with a good mix of short and long hills along with a few soft bits. The new path along the bottom is a bit easier than the old muddy one but in general the surface underfoot was quite soft & slippy which saps energy from the legs, so no overall gain.
1st lap too quick and suffered with each lap progressively slower to finish in just over 37 mins.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Ben Vorlich Sun 26th Nov
Forecast was for a weather window on Sunday and decided to go for a run up & down Ben Vorlich before winter strikes. Heavy rain for the past couple of weeks meant there was plenty of streams to cross on the footpath through Glen Loin.
Climbed up from the Sloy Dam road beside one of the streams which is artificially diverted to fill Loch Sloy avoiding the lower path which was flooded.
Once up this steep section joined the path as it snaked in and out of the crags and went in to the mist and cloud at about 2000-2500 feet. The wind increased with height and put on fleece, jacket and gloves as snow patches started to appear. Only issue was cold feet due to the amount of water.
As usual the path disappeared in & out of the snow but no real problems on the way up - just keep going up. Spent a few minutes at the top in partial cloud which gave glimpses of Loch Sloy and the valleys and mountains on either side.
Difficult to pick up the path on the way back down in the mist and snow and its easy to drop down into the corrie on the Eastern side instead of towards Sloy. Gradually worked out the way and was soon back on the path going through the labyrinth of crags and back under the cloud.
Tired legs on the run back down through Glen Loin, all in 13 miles and 4400 feet. Some pix in the Galleria.
Climbed up from the Sloy Dam road beside one of the streams which is artificially diverted to fill Loch Sloy avoiding the lower path which was flooded.
Once up this steep section joined the path as it snaked in and out of the crags and went in to the mist and cloud at about 2000-2500 feet. The wind increased with height and put on fleece, jacket and gloves as snow patches started to appear. Only issue was cold feet due to the amount of water.
As usual the path disappeared in & out of the snow but no real problems on the way up - just keep going up. Spent a few minutes at the top in partial cloud which gave glimpses of Loch Sloy and the valleys and mountains on either side.
Difficult to pick up the path on the way back down in the mist and snow and its easy to drop down into the corrie on the Eastern side instead of towards Sloy. Gradually worked out the way and was soon back on the path going through the labyrinth of crags and back under the cloud.
Tired legs on the run back down through Glen Loin, all in 13 miles and 4400 feet. Some pix in the Galleria.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Glasgow Uni 5 mile rd race Sat 18th Nov
New route for this fast end of season 5 miler. The new route used the upper half of the old course but in reverse and nearly 2 laps. More ups and downs than before but by the second lap you know what's coming...good if you can keep the pace up or bad if you hang back knowing there are more hills to come.
Aiming for sub 35 mins, set off too fast as usual.....under 6 mins for the first mile, gasping to just over 13 mins at 2 miles. Mile 3 ran as a recovery to be just under 21 mins, picked it up again and got to 4 miles in 27:54, set up just about right and then took it too easy up the last hill through the park and along the road to the finish and overall lost about 20 secs in the last mile and finish in 35:15.
Good end of season burn with nearly 300 runners turning out. Well organised by the students and good changing facilities with soup, sandwiches, tea & cakes in the cafe after.
Aiming for sub 35 mins, set off too fast as usual.....under 6 mins for the first mile, gasping to just over 13 mins at 2 miles. Mile 3 ran as a recovery to be just under 21 mins, picked it up again and got to 4 miles in 27:54, set up just about right and then took it too easy up the last hill through the park and along the road to the finish and overall lost about 20 secs in the last mile and finish in 35:15.
Good end of season burn with nearly 300 runners turning out. Well organised by the students and good changing facilities with soup, sandwiches, tea & cakes in the cafe after.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Run in the dark Sat 11th Nov
Easy week, still suffering after last weekend with various strains and general lethargy so decided on a short scenic tour, along the cycle path to Balloch, through Balloch Park and out the North Gate to Drymen road turning left towards Gatocharn and left again turning back by the water works and along the track/road past Botourich and back into Balloch Park, suffering a bit by then so gave up on the plan to return via Polaroid and took the shortest route through Balloch to the Vale and home.
Had the head torch but didn't need it, ok in the dark with only one emergency stop for an imaginary fence. All in about 11 miles and 1000' of ascent in 1 hr 44 mins.
Had the head torch but didn't need it, ok in the dark with only one emergency stop for an imaginary fence. All in about 11 miles and 1000' of ascent in 1 hr 44 mins.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Eddies 1/2 Marathon Sun 5th Nov
Mini bus full of Millies set off just after 9 for this regular expedition to Eddies 1/2. Weather looked good but you never know with Fort William, turned out fine but a bit windy especially the last 2 or 3 miles which are pretty exposed.
Set off a bit quick as usual, 1st mile in 6 min 35 secs, target was 7:10 pace so eased back and on target after 4 miles in 28:30 odd - so probably running a bit slow at nearer 7:30 after the first mile, maintained pace to get to 8 miles in just over 58mins, worked reasonably well and kept it going over the next couple of miles then after 10 miles the pace slowed with the usual confrontation between discomfort and a better time, discomfort gaining the upper hand going backwards as the pace dropped to around 8 min miles and a finish in 1:38.
Usual entertaining drive back to the Vale where I was attacked by a rocket which got stuck in the launch tube, fireworks are dangerous.
Set off a bit quick as usual, 1st mile in 6 min 35 secs, target was 7:10 pace so eased back and on target after 4 miles in 28:30 odd - so probably running a bit slow at nearer 7:30 after the first mile, maintained pace to get to 8 miles in just over 58mins, worked reasonably well and kept it going over the next couple of miles then after 10 miles the pace slowed with the usual confrontation between discomfort and a better time, discomfort gaining the upper hand going backwards as the pace dropped to around 8 min miles and a finish in 1:38.
Usual entertaining drive back to the Vale where I was attacked by a rocket which got stuck in the launch tube, fireworks are dangerous.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Balloch Park Sun 29th Oct
Late afternoon run today, clocks change, leaves galore as darkness descends.
Set off just after 4 and ran via Burnbrae and paths, the aim was to keep away from roads as much as possible, so on to the cycle path and up towards Balloch. Then its round Balloch Park taking the new trail at the top of Heart Attack hill up and over Whinney Hill to the viewpoint, getting darker all the way, ok except can't see the tree roots (bad) or muddy bits (good).
Struggling to see the path on the way back and take the Botourich road to the North Gate of Balloch Park instead of the trail. Run back through the Park over the new bridge in Balloch, through Balloch Station to the Argyle Park and then along to Christie Park and back home, about 11 miles in 1 hour 54.
Set off just after 4 and ran via Burnbrae and paths, the aim was to keep away from roads as much as possible, so on to the cycle path and up towards Balloch. Then its round Balloch Park taking the new trail at the top of Heart Attack hill up and over Whinney Hill to the viewpoint, getting darker all the way, ok except can't see the tree roots (bad) or muddy bits (good).
Struggling to see the path on the way back and take the Botourich road to the North Gate of Balloch Park instead of the trail. Run back through the Park over the new bridge in Balloch, through Balloch Station to the Argyle Park and then along to Christie Park and back home, about 11 miles in 1 hour 54.
Monday, October 23, 2006
Arrochar Sun 22nd Oct
Went with the crowd this week for what was planned as a 15 mile run on forrest trails from Succoth to Glen Croe, up the old Rest & B Thankful road and return on forrest tracks via Ardgarten. High cloud gave way to blue skies and sunshine as we drove up Loch Lomondside.
Set off about 8:45 through Succoth before doubling back towards Glen Croe. As the trail climbed up good views down Loch Long and with low cloud on the Loch, a cloud inversion for the second week running.
Once at Glen Croe the old eccentricities played up and the route changed. Instead of the planned route we turned back down the road to Ardgarten for a run round the Cats Crag Loop.
The low angle of the sun meant it was mostly cool in the shadow of the trees as we wound our way back above the low clouds for more good views of the Loch and surrounding hills. The breaks in the trees at the various viewpoints let a welcome warm sun in from time to time.
To make up for the shorter route looped round to the back of the group a few times for some extra hills and distance, so all in still ran the 15 miles.
Back at Ardgarten we took the "new" path opposite the car park which winds its way up, down, along and back up again, eventually joining the same forrest track used on the way out. Finished in just under 3 1/2 hours with a quick run down the lower section of the new hill access path for the Cobbler.
Set off about 8:45 through Succoth before doubling back towards Glen Croe. As the trail climbed up good views down Loch Long and with low cloud on the Loch, a cloud inversion for the second week running.
Once at Glen Croe the old eccentricities played up and the route changed. Instead of the planned route we turned back down the road to Ardgarten for a run round the Cats Crag Loop.
The low angle of the sun meant it was mostly cool in the shadow of the trees as we wound our way back above the low clouds for more good views of the Loch and surrounding hills. The breaks in the trees at the various viewpoints let a welcome warm sun in from time to time.
To make up for the shorter route looped round to the back of the group a few times for some extra hills and distance, so all in still ran the 15 miles.
Back at Ardgarten we took the "new" path opposite the car park which winds its way up, down, along and back up again, eventually joining the same forrest track used on the way out. Finished in just under 3 1/2 hours with a quick run down the lower section of the new hill access path for the Cobbler.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Stob Binnein, Ben More, Sun 15th Oct
Back to real running this week with a 10 mile 4800' of climbing 2 munro jog in the Braes of Balquihidder. The start/finish point at Inverlochlarig is nice and remote, 10 miles down a single track road past Balquihidder. Had planned this run for over a year.
After a false start to change into warmer gear left Inverlochlarig climbing 2000'+ in the first mile and up into the clouds, so much for the clear forecast. The 1st top reached is Stob Invercarnaig and then the gradient eases off past Creag Artair and along the Na Staidhricheon ridge, no I don't know how to say it, to Stob Coire An Lochan. Still in the cloud continue up the path to the summit of Stob Binnein in 98 minutes.
Nice surprise right at the top as I come up through the clouds into bright warm sunshine. Both Stob Binnein at 3822' and Ben More at 3851' poking through the cloud. Could only see one more top - on a bearing of 285 degrees - work that one out. (possibly Ben Lui @ 3707', only other one high enough and about 10 miles away).
Jacket & gloves off stopped for a drink, tempted to stay and sunbathe but continued on down towards the Bealach-eadar-dha Beinn, as I approached the top of the clouds once more I was rewarded with my first Brocken Spectre. Alas a pocket of fully charged batteries but no camera for the cloud and light show, it was lying in the car boot unseen till I got home.
Descent to the Beallach and a quick climb up to Ben More in another 44 minutes. By this time the clouds have covered the top so have to hide out the damp wind for a quick breather and drink then off back down to the Beallach.
The plan was to go back the same way but once down under the clouds at the Beallach didn't fancy the climb back into the cold and damp wind up and over Stob Binnein, so route change to drop into Inverlochlarig Glen, contouring round to avoid a climb back up, follow the stream and then pick up what is probably a stalkers path.
The return route is slightly longer but less climb and from the top of Ben more takes 94 mins. The odd bit of sun as breaks appear in the clouds in the surrounding tops makes for dramatic scenes all the way back down the glen.
After a false start to change into warmer gear left Inverlochlarig climbing 2000'+ in the first mile and up into the clouds, so much for the clear forecast. The 1st top reached is Stob Invercarnaig and then the gradient eases off past Creag Artair and along the Na Staidhricheon ridge, no I don't know how to say it, to Stob Coire An Lochan. Still in the cloud continue up the path to the summit of Stob Binnein in 98 minutes.
Nice surprise right at the top as I come up through the clouds into bright warm sunshine. Both Stob Binnein at 3822' and Ben More at 3851' poking through the cloud. Could only see one more top - on a bearing of 285 degrees - work that one out. (possibly Ben Lui @ 3707', only other one high enough and about 10 miles away).
Jacket & gloves off stopped for a drink, tempted to stay and sunbathe but continued on down towards the Bealach-eadar-dha Beinn, as I approached the top of the clouds once more I was rewarded with my first Brocken Spectre. Alas a pocket of fully charged batteries but no camera for the cloud and light show, it was lying in the car boot unseen till I got home.
Descent to the Beallach and a quick climb up to Ben More in another 44 minutes. By this time the clouds have covered the top so have to hide out the damp wind for a quick breather and drink then off back down to the Beallach.
The plan was to go back the same way but once down under the clouds at the Beallach didn't fancy the climb back into the cold and damp wind up and over Stob Binnein, so route change to drop into Inverlochlarig Glen, contouring round to avoid a climb back up, follow the stream and then pick up what is probably a stalkers path.
The return route is slightly longer but less climb and from the top of Ben more takes 94 mins. The odd bit of sun as breaks appear in the clouds in the surrounding tops makes for dramatic scenes all the way back down the glen.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
10 mile handicap Sun 8th Oct
Annual club race, the 10 mile handicap round the Horseshoe. The route starts and finishes at Alexandria Leisure Centre, running up to & through Balloch before following the Horseshoe to return to Alexandria via Auchencarroch road, then its back to the Leisure Centre via a clockwise loop of the town centre. About 10.4 miles overall with about 66o' of ascent.
The first couple of miles are overall slightly downhill then there are 3 climbs over the next couple as it climbs by about 300'. The route then undulates up and down for about 3 or 4 miles before it drops back to sea level between 7 to 9 miles. The last mile or so has one easy climb which doesn't feel easy by then.
Set off around 73 min pace but at about 4 miles had a walk to clear the airways, picked up the pace again for the next mile or so but the heart wasn't really in it after that. Still passing people up till about 8 miles. Finishing in 75 mins 48 secs, 2 seconds faster than last year but should have been better.
The first couple of miles are overall slightly downhill then there are 3 climbs over the next couple as it climbs by about 300'. The route then undulates up and down for about 3 or 4 miles before it drops back to sea level between 7 to 9 miles. The last mile or so has one easy climb which doesn't feel easy by then.
Set off around 73 min pace but at about 4 miles had a walk to clear the airways, picked up the pace again for the next mile or so but the heart wasn't really in it after that. Still passing people up till about 8 miles. Finishing in 75 mins 48 secs, 2 seconds faster than last year but should have been better.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
3 Parks run, Sun 1st October
Early evening 10 mile run through Alexandria taking in the Christie and Argyle parks and round Balloch Park picking up the new path at the top of heart attack hill which takes you through woods and fields up over Whinney Hill to a viewpoint overlooking Loch Lomond's Inchmurrin island and across to Glen Finlas and further up the Luss Hills. Returned by the same route in darkness and 1:37.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Dumfries 1/2 Mara Sun 24th Sept
We were down in Castle Douglas for the September weekend and having run the Dumfries Marathon in March this year decided to run the 1/2 marathon to complete the set.
Different start from the marathon, the 1/2 started outside the Crichton and then along narrow undulating country lanes for the first 5 or 6 miles with a long 1/2 mile plus climb between 4 and 5 miles then a long descent to join the last few miles of what was the marathon course.
After the first few miles when everyone settled down don't think I was passed and enjoyed catching people on the climbs, had to work a bit over the last 4 miles to keep my place and wound it up over the last mile with a good run in and sprint finish into Dock Park.
Weather good for running with light drizzle on and off most of the way with 1 shower a bit too heavy 4 miles out. Good Dumfries RC organised race with finishers getting a nice mug instead of another medal. Marquees set up at the finish for T, Coffee and biscuits, and as there was no baggage bus, a lift back to the cars at the Crichton.
Different start from the marathon, the 1/2 started outside the Crichton and then along narrow undulating country lanes for the first 5 or 6 miles with a long 1/2 mile plus climb between 4 and 5 miles then a long descent to join the last few miles of what was the marathon course.
After the first few miles when everyone settled down don't think I was passed and enjoyed catching people on the climbs, had to work a bit over the last 4 miles to keep my place and wound it up over the last mile with a good run in and sprint finish into Dock Park.
Weather good for running with light drizzle on and off most of the way with 1 shower a bit too heavy 4 miles out. Good Dumfries RC organised race with finishers getting a nice mug instead of another medal. Marquees set up at the finish for T, Coffee and biscuits, and as there was no baggage bus, a lift back to the cars at the Crichton.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Ben Nevis Race Sat 2nd Sept
Drove up to Fort William for the Ben Nevis race, 10 miles and 4400 feet of ascent/descent. Weather pretty horrible, low cloud, heavy showers and windy. Pleasant surprise once through Glencoe where it changed and the cloud got progressively higher as the day went on. By the time the race started the odd bit of blue sky, cloud level from 3000 feet and very little breeze.
The Lochaber Pipe Band led the 380 runners round Laggan park to the start and a couple of minutes before 2:00 we were off for a lap round the park and then up the road to Achintee.
From here the race route follows the Pony Track which most hillwalkers use. There are a variety of short cut options as it winds its way up the Glen Nevis side of Meall an t-Suidhe (Melantee) and around into the Red Burn gully. Here the Pony Track contours round towards the half way lochan between Melantee and the Ben and this is where the race route leaves the maintined Track and cuts directly up and across to the halfway point at the Red Burn and about 2300'. This section took 53 mins about 1 minute behind schedule.
After the Red Burn its a sharp left turn and straight up the maze of "paths" through the scree covered slopes, more direct and much steeper than the zig-zag route of the Pony Track. The terrain changes from grass and mud to a landscape of rock and stone. The route levels out at a bit at 3500' and becomes less steep but the stones hurt your feet more as you try to pick up the pace, jog walked to the top in another 52 mins, lost another 5 mins on this section so no point in going for a fast descent.
As you approach the top the cloud adds to the eerie mood as you pass unseen 2000' drops off the North face. You hand in your numbered tag and turn, gloves on to protect the hands in case of a fall, and try to run downhill as the rocks bite the soles of your feet for the first mile or so. As the descent route steepens again the rocks become smaller and you can let the brakes off as this scree now cushions your feet and provides an escape route when rapid impingement on a large rock seems the only other option.
Once you reach half way point at the Red Burn the route is slightly different than on the way up, you have to face the 800' green wall of death, a steep grassy, muddy slope with more than just a few hidden rocks to keep you from bumsliding too quickly. Main aim here is to fall over only when its the quicker option and you really want to.
After the gwod its back on to the Pony Track, downhill and runnable with a few route choices. Not so steep now and gravity doesn't help so much. Although man made to minimise erosion you are tired and care needs to be taken with the large drops off the side, rocks, boulders and also the moving targets called hillwalkers.
After the Pony Track its on to the road at Achintee where the legs turn to jelly as it undulates along for a mile or so towards Laggan Park and the dreaded lap round the track. Descent time about 55 mins, 4 mins behind schedule, overall 10 mins behind schedule finishing in 2 hrs 40.
The Lochaber Pipe Band led the 380 runners round Laggan park to the start and a couple of minutes before 2:00 we were off for a lap round the park and then up the road to Achintee.
From here the race route follows the Pony Track which most hillwalkers use. There are a variety of short cut options as it winds its way up the Glen Nevis side of Meall an t-Suidhe (Melantee) and around into the Red Burn gully. Here the Pony Track contours round towards the half way lochan between Melantee and the Ben and this is where the race route leaves the maintined Track and cuts directly up and across to the halfway point at the Red Burn and about 2300'. This section took 53 mins about 1 minute behind schedule.
After the Red Burn its a sharp left turn and straight up the maze of "paths" through the scree covered slopes, more direct and much steeper than the zig-zag route of the Pony Track. The terrain changes from grass and mud to a landscape of rock and stone. The route levels out at a bit at 3500' and becomes less steep but the stones hurt your feet more as you try to pick up the pace, jog walked to the top in another 52 mins, lost another 5 mins on this section so no point in going for a fast descent.
As you approach the top the cloud adds to the eerie mood as you pass unseen 2000' drops off the North face. You hand in your numbered tag and turn, gloves on to protect the hands in case of a fall, and try to run downhill as the rocks bite the soles of your feet for the first mile or so. As the descent route steepens again the rocks become smaller and you can let the brakes off as this scree now cushions your feet and provides an escape route when rapid impingement on a large rock seems the only other option.
Once you reach half way point at the Red Burn the route is slightly different than on the way up, you have to face the 800' green wall of death, a steep grassy, muddy slope with more than just a few hidden rocks to keep you from bumsliding too quickly. Main aim here is to fall over only when its the quicker option and you really want to.
After the gwod its back on to the Pony Track, downhill and runnable with a few route choices. Not so steep now and gravity doesn't help so much. Although man made to minimise erosion you are tired and care needs to be taken with the large drops off the side, rocks, boulders and also the moving targets called hillwalkers.
After the Pony Track its on to the road at Achintee where the legs turn to jelly as it undulates along for a mile or so towards Laggan Park and the dreaded lap round the track. Descent time about 55 mins, 4 mins behind schedule, overall 10 mins behind schedule finishing in 2 hrs 40.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Glen Loin Sun 27th Aug
Started out late, about 11:30 for an anti clockwise run round Glen Loin, about 10 miles and 2000 feet of ascent.
With a 10k yesterday and next weeks BN race in mind an easy run was called for. Took my youngest son (12) on his bike and promised that we would walk the steep hills. Perfect day, sunny with a cool breeze.
Run went well except I had to push the bike up the hills whether he was on it or not. With this unexpected weight training thrown in the planned easy run was soon forgotten. As well as that the bonding session did not last, as soon as we go to the top off he went into the distance only stopping at each of the slight inclines on the way back to watch me slog my way up.
Finished in about 2:35 about 45 mins slower than usual due to carrying a mountain bike half way round. Asked if he would come again, the answer was "not if its that route".
With a 10k yesterday and next weeks BN race in mind an easy run was called for. Took my youngest son (12) on his bike and promised that we would walk the steep hills. Perfect day, sunny with a cool breeze.
Run went well except I had to push the bike up the hills whether he was on it or not. With this unexpected weight training thrown in the planned easy run was soon forgotten. As well as that the bonding session did not last, as soon as we go to the top off he went into the distance only stopping at each of the slight inclines on the way back to watch me slog my way up.
Finished in about 2:35 about 45 mins slower than usual due to carrying a mountain bike half way round. Asked if he would come again, the answer was "not if its that route".
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Drymen 10k, Sat 26th Aug
Blytheswood Care 10k in Drymen, ran this to try to get some speed into the legs for next weeks assault on Ben Nevis.
Race starts on the road behind the Winnock Hotel but we were soon directed onto a V muddy path to test your balance for a km or so. The route then undulates between farm track, road and path for the rest of the race. Running surface about as changeable as the weather, rain, sun, cloud and a breeze. Most enjoyable race a bit different from the usual road 10k. Low key but well organised with water stations and plenty of signs and marshalls to make sure you did not get lost in the maze of tracks and paths around Drymen.
Race starts on the road behind the Winnock Hotel but we were soon directed onto a V muddy path to test your balance for a km or so. The route then undulates between farm track, road and path for the rest of the race. Running surface about as changeable as the weather, rain, sun, cloud and a breeze. Most enjoyable race a bit different from the usual road 10k. Low key but well organised with water stations and plenty of signs and marshalls to make sure you did not get lost in the maze of tracks and paths around Drymen.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Arrochar Alps Fri 18th Aug
Repeat of last years pre Nevis race training run. Starting at Succoth, ignore the new path to the hills, instead taking the road opposite the car park and following this until it crossed the stream protected by a crash barrier. Sharp left at the end of the crash barrier onto a narrow path, followed this up through the trees until it joins the forrest track and then turn left keeping to the forrest track ignoring the right forks until the old path is reached.
At the old path turned right to go straight up the disused railway track, at the top of the track continued straight up Narnain ignoring the path towards the Cobbler. This path picks its way up through a few crags but is generally walkable & runable with some good views as you go up.
Once on the top went past the trig point and headed left to pick up the faint path down through the boulder field, then turned right and picked up the main path down steep slopes to cross the Beallach between Narnian/Ime & the Cobbler.
From the Beallach crossed the fence at the style and then straight up Ben Ime, mostly on an easy path, a bit muddy in places. Went past the first summit as the real summit is another 100 or so yards along with a dry stane turret marking the top of the highest peak in the Arrochar Alps (the only one over 1000 metres).
Returned by the same route back down to the Beallach, at the Beallach turned left just before the fence, avoiding the swamp, and then down the steep drop into Glen Loin. There is a new rough path to the rigth of the stream and above the current tree line which takes you back to the usual forrest track for a run back to Succoth.
All in about 12 miles and around 5000' of climbing run in just under 3 1/2 hours. Cloud level less than 2 1/2 thousand feet so no views from the tops. A few pictures in the Galleria.
At the old path turned right to go straight up the disused railway track, at the top of the track continued straight up Narnain ignoring the path towards the Cobbler. This path picks its way up through a few crags but is generally walkable & runable with some good views as you go up.
Once on the top went past the trig point and headed left to pick up the faint path down through the boulder field, then turned right and picked up the main path down steep slopes to cross the Beallach between Narnian/Ime & the Cobbler.
From the Beallach crossed the fence at the style and then straight up Ben Ime, mostly on an easy path, a bit muddy in places. Went past the first summit as the real summit is another 100 or so yards along with a dry stane turret marking the top of the highest peak in the Arrochar Alps (the only one over 1000 metres).
Returned by the same route back down to the Beallach, at the Beallach turned left just before the fence, avoiding the swamp, and then down the steep drop into Glen Loin. There is a new rough path to the rigth of the stream and above the current tree line which takes you back to the usual forrest track for a run back to Succoth.
All in about 12 miles and around 5000' of climbing run in just under 3 1/2 hours. Cloud level less than 2 1/2 thousand feet so no views from the tops. A few pictures in the Galleria.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Gran Canaria 5th to 12th Aug
Late booking made for the Island of Gran Canaria. Previously been to Tenerife and the climate is near perfect, hot & sunny but with a constant breeze which keeps it comfortable through the day and cool through the night.
Stayed in the Revoli Playa apartments in Puerto Rico on the Southern coast. Like the resort they were a bit dated but clean (no cockroaches) and comfortable with pool, bar, restaurant, supermarket & small shops on site and a short walk to either the main resort shops or the beach. Puerto Rico means Rich Port with lots of yachts and power boats in the 2 harbours at opposite ends of the beach. You can hire practicaly any type of boat and diving is popular too.
A 15 minute walk along a purpose built clifftop path takes you to the developing resort of Amadores complete with man made beach. Between the resorts access to the sea is via a spiral staircase where you can sit in the waves as they crash on to the rocks and watch the passing boats of all shapes and sizes.
PR beach is populated by a mixture of native Spanish and holiday makers. The Spanish families make for a live soap far more entertaining than any TV copy. Amadores beach is again mixed but with a higher % of holiday makers. Both beaches have a variety of shops and bars. The rocks between the two are populated by only a few people, mainly young Spanish and no shops but great to sit in the surf and pass the time of day.
A bit of a change from the usual Lossiemouth campsite summer holiday but a surprisingly similar relaxing "atmosphere and noise" on both the Lossie campsite and the Puerto Rico beach. Close your eyes and you could be on either (yes I have been in the Lossie campsite in 100 degree heat). Locals are friendly and obviously make an effort so that you enjoy your holiday without any hassle.
Stayed in the Revoli Playa apartments in Puerto Rico on the Southern coast. Like the resort they were a bit dated but clean (no cockroaches) and comfortable with pool, bar, restaurant, supermarket & small shops on site and a short walk to either the main resort shops or the beach. Puerto Rico means Rich Port with lots of yachts and power boats in the 2 harbours at opposite ends of the beach. You can hire practicaly any type of boat and diving is popular too.
A 15 minute walk along a purpose built clifftop path takes you to the developing resort of Amadores complete with man made beach. Between the resorts access to the sea is via a spiral staircase where you can sit in the waves as they crash on to the rocks and watch the passing boats of all shapes and sizes.
PR beach is populated by a mixture of native Spanish and holiday makers. The Spanish families make for a live soap far more entertaining than any TV copy. Amadores beach is again mixed but with a higher % of holiday makers. Both beaches have a variety of shops and bars. The rocks between the two are populated by only a few people, mainly young Spanish and no shops but great to sit in the surf and pass the time of day.
A bit of a change from the usual Lossiemouth campsite summer holiday but a surprisingly similar relaxing "atmosphere and noise" on both the Lossie campsite and the Puerto Rico beach. Close your eyes and you could be on either (yes I have been in the Lossie campsite in 100 degree heat). Locals are friendly and obviously make an effort so that you enjoy your holiday without any hassle.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Glen Luss Sun 30th July
Anti-clockwise circuit of Glen Luss of around 12 miles and 5000 feet of ascent.
Starting at the entrance to Glen Luss in sunny/breezy conditions with a 2000' climb up Beinn Dubh. Once on the top ran on narrow paths along the broad ridge to an un-named top looking in to Glen Douglas to the North and Loch Lomond to the East. Tremendous views up a fjord like Loch Lomond and over towards a dreamlike view of the Arrochar Alps. Only passed 5 people on this outward half.
1400' drop down to Sith Mor before the 1700' steep trackless slog up to the trig point at Doune Hill, passed a couple of Grannies going in the opposite direction complaining that the grass was much longer than usual! Clouds rolling in on aa cooling wind for the run from Doune Hill a couple of miles along the undulating ridge over Beinn Lochainn to Beinn Eich before the steep 2000' drop back in to Glen Luss at Edentaggart farm.
The last section is the 3 mile jog back down the Glen Luss road, passed the Grannies who had come out via Glen Mollochan. Only passed one other person who was sitting at the top of Beinn Eich, quieter than usual.
Starting at the entrance to Glen Luss in sunny/breezy conditions with a 2000' climb up Beinn Dubh. Once on the top ran on narrow paths along the broad ridge to an un-named top looking in to Glen Douglas to the North and Loch Lomond to the East. Tremendous views up a fjord like Loch Lomond and over towards a dreamlike view of the Arrochar Alps. Only passed 5 people on this outward half.
1400' drop down to Sith Mor before the 1700' steep trackless slog up to the trig point at Doune Hill, passed a couple of Grannies going in the opposite direction complaining that the grass was much longer than usual! Clouds rolling in on aa cooling wind for the run from Doune Hill a couple of miles along the undulating ridge over Beinn Lochainn to Beinn Eich before the steep 2000' drop back in to Glen Luss at Edentaggart farm.
The last section is the 3 mile jog back down the Glen Luss road, passed the Grannies who had come out via Glen Mollochan. Only passed one other person who was sitting at the top of Beinn Eich, quieter than usual.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Luss Highland Games Sun 23rd July
Having missed the Roseneath & Clynder games by arriving late set off to Luss on time and decided to do both Hill races. The races are run up the 1000 foot high Cruach Dhubh at the entrance to Glen Luss. First the Local race is 1/2 way up & down and later on the Open race all the way up & down. Filled in the entry form and received £2 back for entering the races!
There was about 1/2 an hour to go before the Local race when the announcer asked for entrants for the Local 200m handicap race, gave it a go along with some of the Dumbarton AAC guys and came 2nd, another £6 back. Good value these highland games.
The Local Hill race kicked off with the usual frantic lap round the track leaving the games field along the road and onto a path which went under the main road then out onto the hill via a couple of fields. The gradient increased to the half way flag via sheep tracks and paths with the last couple of hundred yards across rough moor.
The turning point marker flag was set in a hollow behind 6 foot high bracken so there was a slight climb back up before the descent. Managed to pick the wrong way about 1/2 way down leading to more head high bracken, bogs and ditches, eventually picking up the path near the bottom rather muddy and weary from the extra effort. The race finishes with another lap round the games field, the applause helping to maintain effort levels.
The Open race about an hour & a half later follows the same route but then carries on to the top across steeper, pathless and bracken covered hillside. A steady slog to the top then brakes off for the descent back to the games field. Thankfully managed to keep to the route on the way back down and another lap of the track to finish.
Sat around in the sun watching a variety of races and field events and finished (me) off with the open 400 m handicap race. Led from the start due to the "best" handicap but quickly overtaken by most of the field and any pretence of a sprint to glory evaporated.
There was about 1/2 an hour to go before the Local race when the announcer asked for entrants for the Local 200m handicap race, gave it a go along with some of the Dumbarton AAC guys and came 2nd, another £6 back. Good value these highland games.
The Local Hill race kicked off with the usual frantic lap round the track leaving the games field along the road and onto a path which went under the main road then out onto the hill via a couple of fields. The gradient increased to the half way flag via sheep tracks and paths with the last couple of hundred yards across rough moor.
The turning point marker flag was set in a hollow behind 6 foot high bracken so there was a slight climb back up before the descent. Managed to pick the wrong way about 1/2 way down leading to more head high bracken, bogs and ditches, eventually picking up the path near the bottom rather muddy and weary from the extra effort. The race finishes with another lap round the games field, the applause helping to maintain effort levels.
The Open race about an hour & a half later follows the same route but then carries on to the top across steeper, pathless and bracken covered hillside. A steady slog to the top then brakes off for the descent back to the games field. Thankfully managed to keep to the route on the way back down and another lap of the track to finish.
Sat around in the sun watching a variety of races and field events and finished (me) off with the open 400 m handicap race. Led from the start due to the "best" handicap but quickly overtaken by most of the field and any pretence of a sprint to glory evaporated.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Balloch to Clydebank 1/2 Sun 9th July
Rescheduling due to snow in March meant I could have another go at this point to point 1/2 marathon. Started off from Lomond Shores in warm, overcast and damp conditions which stayed for more or less the whole race.
The route runs through the Vale into Dumbarton via Dalreoch and then over the newer Artisan bridge for a change. Slight route change continued under the railway to pick up the usual route along the cycle path. The route rejoins the road at Bowling and undulates through this small Clydeside village, a good section of the race which ends with a steep little climb into Old Kilpatrick.
More or less down hill from OK to the end but exposed to the wind for a mile or so after it passes under the Erskine Bridge. Route turns through the same Clydebank Industrial Estate as the 10k and goes under Kilbowie road finishing behind the shopping centre.
Maintained a steady pace all the way averaging 7 min 23 sec miles to finish in 1:37:08, best time at this distance for about 3 years.
The route runs through the Vale into Dumbarton via Dalreoch and then over the newer Artisan bridge for a change. Slight route change continued under the railway to pick up the usual route along the cycle path. The route rejoins the road at Bowling and undulates through this small Clydeside village, a good section of the race which ends with a steep little climb into Old Kilpatrick.
More or less down hill from OK to the end but exposed to the wind for a mile or so after it passes under the Erskine Bridge. Route turns through the same Clydebank Industrial Estate as the 10k and goes under Kilbowie road finishing behind the shopping centre.
Maintained a steady pace all the way averaging 7 min 23 sec miles to finish in 1:37:08, best time at this distance for about 3 years.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Ted Baker Hill Race Thurs 6th July
Good turn out, 23 including Buffy, for his years race in memory of Ted the Italian Spinoni. A warm night, no midges but plenty of flies to suck in as you went up the hill towards the Pappert Well. Staggered start in 3 groups so went off steady in group 2 with recent and forthcoming races in mind.
Ran in road shoes to encourage an easy pace and started up the hill with breath to spare, kept this pace going letting a few from grp 2 go ahead, even so caught a few of group 1 on the way up.
Just about managed to keep the pace steady until the leaders from group 3 came up behind near the top. Picked up the pace on the way down and when the leaders passed tucked in behind them until we reached the woods. Eased back here over the roots and ditches but kept it steady to try and catch some of the others, picked off another 3 and Buffy to be clanged in by Mrs B with the bell in just over 44 mins, 7th o/all, 2nd Millie.
Ran in road shoes to encourage an easy pace and started up the hill with breath to spare, kept this pace going letting a few from grp 2 go ahead, even so caught a few of group 1 on the way up.
Just about managed to keep the pace steady until the leaders from group 3 came up behind near the top. Picked up the pace on the way down and when the leaders passed tucked in behind them until we reached the woods. Eased back here over the roots and ditches but kept it steady to try and catch some of the others, picked off another 3 and Buffy to be clanged in by Mrs B with the bell in just over 44 mins, 7th o/all, 2nd Millie.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Glen Loin recovery run 2nd July
Woken at half 5 by a barking Poodle, sun splitting the sky, decided to kip for another hour then head up to Arrochar for an early morning jog round Glen Loin. Left the now fee charging car park at 7:30 for the anticlockwise loop of about 10 miles. Walked the hills in memory of yesterdays race and took advantage of the many cooling streams and also a quick dip in the jacuzzi finishing in a few minutes under 2 hours.
Dollar Hill Race 1st July
Sun shines on the righteous. Glorious sunshine for this triple championship medium race, British, Scottish & Club. The top British runners among nearly 200 for a 9 mile horseshoe round the Ochils.
The route heads North from Dollar Academy up through Dollar Glen, over Saddle Hill and contiunes to climb up Whitewisp Hill. This climb takes you up 2000' in 2 1/2 miles.
Once the initial slog is over the route turns west and becomes runnable undulating up and down along a broad grassy ridge following rough tracks to Tarmangie and then Skythorn Hills, here the route turns south west and heads down then up Andrew Gannel Hill where the route takes a sharp turn south east back towards Dollar down to Mill Glen and then up a stiff 400' climb (walking again) to Kings Seat Hill, thankfully the last major climb.
From here the route continues SE down towards Dollar rejoining the outward path in Dollar Glen. This is a difficult section as its sheltered from the cooling breeze and changes from toe bashing steep to gentle drops all the way down making it impossible to settle the tired limbs into any rythym.
Finish back at Dollar Academy in just over 1 hour 51 mins to tea and cakes, jolly dee.
The route heads North from Dollar Academy up through Dollar Glen, over Saddle Hill and contiunes to climb up Whitewisp Hill. This climb takes you up 2000' in 2 1/2 miles.
Once the initial slog is over the route turns west and becomes runnable undulating up and down along a broad grassy ridge following rough tracks to Tarmangie and then Skythorn Hills, here the route turns south west and heads down then up Andrew Gannel Hill where the route takes a sharp turn south east back towards Dollar down to Mill Glen and then up a stiff 400' climb (walking again) to Kings Seat Hill, thankfully the last major climb.
From here the route continues SE down towards Dollar rejoining the outward path in Dollar Glen. This is a difficult section as its sheltered from the cooling breeze and changes from toe bashing steep to gentle drops all the way down making it impossible to settle the tired limbs into any rythym.
Finish back at Dollar Academy in just over 1 hour 51 mins to tea and cakes, jolly dee.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Slieve Donard Friday 23rd June
A race up Northern Irelands highest Mountain, total climb of about 2700 feet within 2 1/2 miles, on a sunny Friday evening among 72 other like minded souls - what could be better?
The race starts with a run along Newcastle main street beside the sea and then turns right into Donard Park, straight through the park, out the back and up the conifer clad lower slopes. The runners take a variety of routes through the trees. Followed one of the larger groups trying not to get lost. As the runners emerged from the forrest most joined the same "Black Stairs" route up the open hill climbing all the time.
It is a slow jog / walk at first then as the route steepens its hands, knees, teeth and nails as you scramble up a faint sheep track through the crags which give the route its name. Back to a jog / walk as the slope then undulates its way towards a steep loose boulder field which nearly brings you to a halt. Once clear of the boulders the gradient eases and you can begin to jog again up a wide rocky whaleback ridge to the top, a bit sore on the feet.
Round the massive summit cairn and pick up the pace, still a bit sore on the feet. Managed to pass 3 runners before the slow clamber through the boulders then its brakes off down the open moor avoiding rocks and holes where possible.
No one directly in front to follow so keep having to stop and pick out runners in the distance, luckily find the same path back through the crags and pick off another runner who chose a slightly different route which seemed to involve more sliding than scrambling.
Once back into the forrest take a different route from the way up and get a bit lost. This turns out to be a poor choice as a stoney/rocky path slows it down. Doesn't last long though as extra effort is soon needed to keep the pace going which means..... back on the flat and nearly finished, its a steady run back through Donard Park and along the road to finish 54th out of 73 in just under 84 mins.
Couldn't have picked a better evening to try this race in its 62nd running since 1945, one of the 30 plus races in what looks like an excellent and varied NIMRA calendar.
The race starts with a run along Newcastle main street beside the sea and then turns right into Donard Park, straight through the park, out the back and up the conifer clad lower slopes. The runners take a variety of routes through the trees. Followed one of the larger groups trying not to get lost. As the runners emerged from the forrest most joined the same "Black Stairs" route up the open hill climbing all the time.
It is a slow jog / walk at first then as the route steepens its hands, knees, teeth and nails as you scramble up a faint sheep track through the crags which give the route its name. Back to a jog / walk as the slope then undulates its way towards a steep loose boulder field which nearly brings you to a halt. Once clear of the boulders the gradient eases and you can begin to jog again up a wide rocky whaleback ridge to the top, a bit sore on the feet.
Round the massive summit cairn and pick up the pace, still a bit sore on the feet. Managed to pass 3 runners before the slow clamber through the boulders then its brakes off down the open moor avoiding rocks and holes where possible.
No one directly in front to follow so keep having to stop and pick out runners in the distance, luckily find the same path back through the crags and pick off another runner who chose a slightly different route which seemed to involve more sliding than scrambling.
Once back into the forrest take a different route from the way up and get a bit lost. This turns out to be a poor choice as a stoney/rocky path slows it down. Doesn't last long though as extra effort is soon needed to keep the pace going which means..... back on the flat and nearly finished, its a steady run back through Donard Park and along the road to finish 54th out of 73 in just under 84 mins.
Couldn't have picked a better evening to try this race in its 62nd running since 1945, one of the 30 plus races in what looks like an excellent and varied NIMRA calendar.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Polaroid 10k Sun 18th June
Back on to the road for this slightly hilly 10k, near perfect conditions, cool, light rain. The start was further back along pier road this year, must have been short in previous years??
Set off at a reasonable pace & kept it going until between 4k & 5k. Took it easy for a bit and then tried to pick the pace back up after Davy Grahams corner but only lasted a couple of minutes and gave up again, jogged along to finish just under 45 mins, there's always next year.
Set off at a reasonable pace & kept it going until between 4k & 5k. Took it easy for a bit and then tried to pick the pace back up after Davy Grahams corner but only lasted a couple of minutes and gave up again, jogged along to finish just under 45 mins, there's always next year.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Ben Sheann Wed 14th June
Starting in Strathyre, Ben Sheann was run on a cool summers evening. A new course this year about 3 miles overall which is about 1/2 a mile longer than previous years but more runnable. Total climb of about 1400'. A short sharp race to get the legs moving after Glen Rosa.
It's a jog / walk routine on the way up on pine needle covered paths through the forrest popping out near the top for a last push up a steep grassy gulley, over the top and back down a steep zig zag path and through the obligatory bog before plunging back into the forrest for a fast as you dare run which is fine apart from the large rocks which weren't there on the way up appearing from around corners and behind trees , oh and you need to avoid the odd precipice beside the path.
Finished in 41 1/2 mins about 4 minutes slower than last year. The real bonus this year was the (relatively) friendly midges. Previous years have seen runners grow midge beards by the time they finish the race. Try it for yourself next year!
It's a jog / walk routine on the way up on pine needle covered paths through the forrest popping out near the top for a last push up a steep grassy gulley, over the top and back down a steep zig zag path and through the obligatory bog before plunging back into the forrest for a fast as you dare run which is fine apart from the large rocks which weren't there on the way up appearing from around corners and behind trees , oh and you need to avoid the odd precipice beside the path.
Finished in 41 1/2 mins about 4 minutes slower than last year. The real bonus this year was the (relatively) friendly midges. Previous years have seen runners grow midge beards by the time they finish the race. Try it for yourself next year!
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Glen Rosa Horseshoe Sat 10th June
SHR Long race, 13 miles & 5500' of climb on a hot & sunny Sat afternoon in June. The race comprises 3 major climbs over Bhenn Chilabhain, Cir Mhor, and the 2 Goat Fell tops on a Mountainous circuit of Glen Rosa. There are 7 checkpoints where runners deposit tags ensuring the route is followed and so that runners can be tracked to help ensure their safety. A few pictures of the route taken by Adrian G in the Galeria.
The race starts in the grounds of Brodick Castle and runs back towards Brodick before cutting into Glen Rosa. The run into the Glen was windless and hot but ended with a refreshing splash at the bridge before heading up Bhenn Chilabhain, the 1st climb of the day, about 2000'. Various route choices here, chose the middle one, straight up, on the day seemed a good choice as gained a few places over some faster runners. Possibly due to the dry underfoot conditions, a more normal day would have seen strength sapping boggy ground. Thankfully a breeze kicked in a few hundred feet up but not before someone a few places ahead gave up due to the heat. Ran along the lower ridge then up a steep climb to the top ridge and the 1st checkpoint.
At the end of the ridge the route is (thankfully) flagged into Coire Daingean, very steep descent, mountain goat stuff. Once into Coire D. its a contour on rough heather and boulder clad slopes under A Chir into Fionn Choire, the occaisional sheep tracks and cooling streams helping on this difficult section. Then its Straight up Fionn Choire towards the coll, again dry underfoot helps the straight up route, steep climb up to the Coll and cp2. CP3 is reached with a steep climb up Cir Mhor total climb from Fionn Choire of about 1500'.
From the top of Cir Mhor its back down to the coll, cp4, and then back into Fionn Choire keeping as high as possible for a 2nd difficult contour, this one round under Cir Mhor and then up to the saddle, between Glen Rosa and Glen Sannnox and cp5. Came across an older couple at the saddle with the man in a bit of trouble, not feeling too well, let the Arran Mountain rescue know where he was, heard later on that he was having a heart attack, hope he is ok.
Now for the final 1500' of climb.
Up the ridge to North Goat Fell with a few scrambles along the way, then picking your way along by the rocky Stacach section, got stuck here, on the slabs, before seeing other runners on a path below and followed them up towards Goat Fell and cp6. Cramp kicked in going up GF, feeling a bit sorry but not too bad. A short rest near the top seemed to ease it off. From GF its a 3 mile run back to Brodick Castle, the 1st 1 1/2 miles on a foot crunching rocky path to cp7 then back onto a seemingly endless, windless, undulating forrest track before popping out for a quick run down a couple of fields to the finish.
Spectacular scenery with 1st class organisation on a scorching day made for an unforgettale experience, finishing in just over 4 hours - nearly 1 3/4 hours behind the winner.
The race starts in the grounds of Brodick Castle and runs back towards Brodick before cutting into Glen Rosa. The run into the Glen was windless and hot but ended with a refreshing splash at the bridge before heading up Bhenn Chilabhain, the 1st climb of the day, about 2000'. Various route choices here, chose the middle one, straight up, on the day seemed a good choice as gained a few places over some faster runners. Possibly due to the dry underfoot conditions, a more normal day would have seen strength sapping boggy ground. Thankfully a breeze kicked in a few hundred feet up but not before someone a few places ahead gave up due to the heat. Ran along the lower ridge then up a steep climb to the top ridge and the 1st checkpoint.
At the end of the ridge the route is (thankfully) flagged into Coire Daingean, very steep descent, mountain goat stuff. Once into Coire D. its a contour on rough heather and boulder clad slopes under A Chir into Fionn Choire, the occaisional sheep tracks and cooling streams helping on this difficult section. Then its Straight up Fionn Choire towards the coll, again dry underfoot helps the straight up route, steep climb up to the Coll and cp2. CP3 is reached with a steep climb up Cir Mhor total climb from Fionn Choire of about 1500'.
From the top of Cir Mhor its back down to the coll, cp4, and then back into Fionn Choire keeping as high as possible for a 2nd difficult contour, this one round under Cir Mhor and then up to the saddle, between Glen Rosa and Glen Sannnox and cp5. Came across an older couple at the saddle with the man in a bit of trouble, not feeling too well, let the Arran Mountain rescue know where he was, heard later on that he was having a heart attack, hope he is ok.
Now for the final 1500' of climb.
Up the ridge to North Goat Fell with a few scrambles along the way, then picking your way along by the rocky Stacach section, got stuck here, on the slabs, before seeing other runners on a path below and followed them up towards Goat Fell and cp6. Cramp kicked in going up GF, feeling a bit sorry but not too bad. A short rest near the top seemed to ease it off. From GF its a 3 mile run back to Brodick Castle, the 1st 1 1/2 miles on a foot crunching rocky path to cp7 then back onto a seemingly endless, windless, undulating forrest track before popping out for a quick run down a couple of fields to the finish.
Spectacular scenery with 1st class organisation on a scorching day made for an unforgettale experience, finishing in just over 4 hours - nearly 1 3/4 hours behind the winner.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Old Kilpatrick Hill Race Wed 7th June
Went for an easy run out on this bog and burn race in warm, dry & sunny conditions, probably good chance for a pb but took it easy in view of impending Glen Rosa on Saturday. Only other problem was the severe cough when effort increased to normal race pace...hope this goes away for GR.
Jogged up the road and then walked most of the first climb, as the path levelled out started to jog again. Kept going without getting out of breath over the moor and onto the farm road. Once off the track the route is a bit less smooth and had to work at minimising effort to avoid getting out of breath and the coughing fit which would follow.
Better path round the loch apart from the rocks but ok and walked 3/4 the way up the 2nd climb as well. Jogged the last part and ran from the trig point off the hill via the coffee table and back down to the road, steady pace back to the finish in just over 64, faster than expected, maybe there's something in taking it easy!
Jogged up the road and then walked most of the first climb, as the path levelled out started to jog again. Kept going without getting out of breath over the moor and onto the farm road. Once off the track the route is a bit less smooth and had to work at minimising effort to avoid getting out of breath and the coughing fit which would follow.
Better path round the loch apart from the rocks but ok and walked 3/4 the way up the 2nd climb as well. Jogged the last part and ran from the trig point off the hill via the coffee table and back down to the road, steady pace back to the finish in just over 64, faster than expected, maybe there's something in taking it easy!
Monday, June 05, 2006
Scolty Hill Race Sun 4th June
Taking part in the 2nd race in this years SHR championship meant a long drive for a short race, a round trip of nearly 300 miles. The race was taking place a mile outside Banchory about 20 miles north of Fettercairn.
Over 100 runners took part in the race which involved a double ascent of Scolty hill, and was run on forrest track and most combinations of hill paths in between. The race started and finished at the forrest car park. A bit too warm in the forrest and not much of a breeze at the top either.
Ran with the HRM as my stopwatch strap had snapped. Set the limits at 160-180 with the aim of 160+ at all times, and only dropped below 160 once when the low HR alarm beeps warned I was getting tired and losing concentration at the start of the 2nd climb up Scolty hill, soon put that right and even hit highest ever (180+) on the run in to the finish.
Over 100 runners took part in the race which involved a double ascent of Scolty hill, and was run on forrest track and most combinations of hill paths in between. The race started and finished at the forrest car park. A bit too warm in the forrest and not much of a breeze at the top either.
Ran with the HRM as my stopwatch strap had snapped. Set the limits at 160-180 with the aim of 160+ at all times, and only dropped below 160 once when the low HR alarm beeps warned I was getting tired and losing concentration at the start of the 2nd climb up Scolty hill, soon put that right and even hit highest ever (180+) on the run in to the finish.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Clydebank 10k Thurs 1st June
1st run in this years Polaroid series, missed last weeks opener at Helensburgh. Pretty good running conditions, cool & sunny and a bit too windy which is the norm at Clydebank. Wanted to keep it steady and started about right at 4:10-4:20 per km and more or less maintained it until about 6k where pace dropped slightly, managed to pick it back up for the last 2 or 3 to finish just over 42 mins.
Monday, May 29, 2006
An Gearanach Sat 27th May 06
Set off before 8 for the Ring of Steall, plus Stob Ban and Mullach Nan Coirean, 15 miles & 8000 feet, couldn't see the snow on the tops for the clouds.
Parked the car at tbe lower falls car park in Glen Nevis and set off in a minor monsoon, thankfully this stopped by the time I had jogged the 1 1/2 miles to the end of the road. Took off the rain gear and ran on up the gorge path to Steall Meadows.
Crossed the wire bridge to avoid wet feet but too much water about and ended up wading through a bog and then a river before starting on the major climb up to An Gearanach and the ridge via the zig zag path up Allt Coire Chadha Chaoruinn. As much of a slog as a mouthful with 2500' climb in 2 miles. Paused about 1/2 way up to put the 2nd thermal and rain jacket on as the wind started to bite and the monsoon had restarted.
The path steepens up in the 2nd half and ends in a scramble up loose boulders to gain the top of An Gearanach. Didn't stop at the top pretty horrible by now, scrambled down the other side towards the 2nd top of the ring, An Garbhanach, and picked my way about half way along the ridge with the rain/sleet drops now about the size of a half pint and falling?? almost vertically upwards from the glen below.
Getting cold and miserable, visibility poor and didn't look like it would get any better. Had a choice, either put on spare thermal, jacket & hat or go back. This would leave nothing spare in case of more problems and decided to be sensible & go back down the way I came.
All in 10 miles and nearly 4000' feet of climb, not as planned but that will be there for the good day it deserves. Made up for it with a Sunday morning run up the last few miles of the WHW, 9 miles and 2000'. A couple of pics in the galleria.
Parked the car at tbe lower falls car park in Glen Nevis and set off in a minor monsoon, thankfully this stopped by the time I had jogged the 1 1/2 miles to the end of the road. Took off the rain gear and ran on up the gorge path to Steall Meadows.
Crossed the wire bridge to avoid wet feet but too much water about and ended up wading through a bog and then a river before starting on the major climb up to An Gearanach and the ridge via the zig zag path up Allt Coire Chadha Chaoruinn. As much of a slog as a mouthful with 2500' climb in 2 miles. Paused about 1/2 way up to put the 2nd thermal and rain jacket on as the wind started to bite and the monsoon had restarted.
The path steepens up in the 2nd half and ends in a scramble up loose boulders to gain the top of An Gearanach. Didn't stop at the top pretty horrible by now, scrambled down the other side towards the 2nd top of the ring, An Garbhanach, and picked my way about half way along the ridge with the rain/sleet drops now about the size of a half pint and falling?? almost vertically upwards from the glen below.
Getting cold and miserable, visibility poor and didn't look like it would get any better. Had a choice, either put on spare thermal, jacket & hat or go back. This would leave nothing spare in case of more problems and decided to be sensible & go back down the way I came.
All in 10 miles and nearly 4000' feet of climb, not as planned but that will be there for the good day it deserves. Made up for it with a Sunday morning run up the last few miles of the WHW, 9 miles and 2000'. A couple of pics in the galleria.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Goat Fell Sat 20th May
Never could understand why the record was slower than Ben Lomond, shorter & less climb, I do now. Decided to do this race to try to suss out the route for Glen Rosa in a few weeks. Set off in low cloud and light rain (pipe band championships in Dumbarton today), good running conditions.
The race starts in Brodick to the sound of the local pipe band and a lap round the playing fields then it's 1 1/2 miles of road heading up towards Brodick Castle before finally leaving the tar and off up the GF tourist path. This starts as a forest track then changes into a man made hill path which progresses to a very stoney then rocky path as it undulates its way into the Coire Nam Meann climbing all the way. The rocks turn to slabs on the last section towards the summit as it curves round the edge of Coire Lan ending in a scramble to the trig point at the top. Lost a couple of places on the way up this steep section.
Not a lot to see at the top apart from clouds and rock.
Gloves on for the descent avoiding the slippy slabs as far as possible. Passed a few on the steep drop from the top. Once off this steepest part let gravity take over and pick up the pace and managed to pass another 5 or 6 people, a bit sore on the feet. Gets easier once back on the man made section and pass another couple. Back onto the tar and can see 2 guys a couple of hundred yards ahead. The last 1 1/2 miles are all down hill so relax and keep a steady pace, gradually close up and pick them off. Nearly caught by the race organiser on the closing lap round the field but out kick him to finish 56th out of 98.
Good race put on by Arran runners with a testing descent demanding full attention especially in the wet. Race followed by afternoon tea of sandwiches, cakes, tea and coffee.
The race starts in Brodick to the sound of the local pipe band and a lap round the playing fields then it's 1 1/2 miles of road heading up towards Brodick Castle before finally leaving the tar and off up the GF tourist path. This starts as a forest track then changes into a man made hill path which progresses to a very stoney then rocky path as it undulates its way into the Coire Nam Meann climbing all the way. The rocks turn to slabs on the last section towards the summit as it curves round the edge of Coire Lan ending in a scramble to the trig point at the top. Lost a couple of places on the way up this steep section.
Not a lot to see at the top apart from clouds and rock.
Gloves on for the descent avoiding the slippy slabs as far as possible. Passed a few on the steep drop from the top. Once off this steepest part let gravity take over and pick up the pace and managed to pass another 5 or 6 people, a bit sore on the feet. Gets easier once back on the man made section and pass another couple. Back onto the tar and can see 2 guys a couple of hundred yards ahead. The last 1 1/2 miles are all down hill so relax and keep a steady pace, gradually close up and pick them off. Nearly caught by the race organiser on the closing lap round the field but out kick him to finish 56th out of 98.
Good race put on by Arran runners with a testing descent demanding full attention especially in the wet. Race followed by afternoon tea of sandwiches, cakes, tea and coffee.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Conic Hill Sun 14th May
With a 3 race week behind looked for a change of pace and location. Decided at the last minute to try Conic Hill, picking up the WHW at Drymen and following the route through fields and coniferous woodland. The WHW runs almost to the top of Conic Hill and it is only a small climb to get there. Climb was well worth it, good views of Loch Lomond from the Vale to Ben Lomond and on up to the Arrochar Alps. Started just after 8 and it was fairly quiet on the way out only passing about 3 small groups. Sun shone until just before Conic Hill when it clouded over. Returned by same route but v busy by now passing many groups up to 20 odd people in size. Just under 3 hours including a 25 minute detour through forest on the way out.
Trossachs 10k Trail Race Sat 13th May
Cold 10:30 am start to this race run in aid of the Anthony Nolan Trust. Drawn in by the chance of an early 10k to sharpen the speed with the added benefit of being off road. The course started and finished in the carp park behind the shops in Aberfoyle and in between looped round a small loch. Soon realised the route was full of twists and turns and undulations - a bit like a mini roller coaster, especially the first 5k. None of the hills were too long and it was an enjoyable and testing course. Maintaining effort rather than pace was the key and managed ok apart from about 4k where I tried to race other runners rather than the course. Dropped about 10 secs per k from half way and hung on till the end to finish just inside 44 mins. Good fun and would try it again if it is re-run in the future.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Dumyat Hill Race, Wed 10th May
Beautiful night for this undulating out and back 5 mile race, sunshine & a breeze, perfect conditions underfoot with only one boggy bit set up for a good time but Ben Lomond effort still in the legs.
Race starts in Stirling Uni Campus onto a track and road behind and then onto the hill via the not so bluebell woods - spring is a bit later this year. Good path all the way to the top with only the usual bog before the last climb. Just over a minute down on the climb, too easy.
Descent is normally a blast but took it steady as the legs were complaining and did not want to end up in casualty. Still managed to take a few on the way down, with none passing me, one guy put in a big effort and almost got away especially uphill back along the track but hung on and took him with 200m to go. Descent probably too easy as well but didn't feel secure enough to really push it.
Race starts in Stirling Uni Campus onto a track and road behind and then onto the hill via the not so bluebell woods - spring is a bit later this year. Good path all the way to the top with only the usual bog before the last climb. Just over a minute down on the climb, too easy.
Descent is normally a blast but took it steady as the legs were complaining and did not want to end up in casualty. Still managed to take a few on the way down, with none passing me, one guy put in a big effort and almost got away especially uphill back along the track but hung on and took him with 200m to go. Descent probably too easy as well but didn't feel secure enough to really push it.
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Ben Lomond, Sat 6th May
Perfect conditions, warm sunny day with a cooling breeze greeted the big field of around 200 for this years race. Increased numbers as it is both the one off ScottishAthletics Hill race championship and one of the (4 from 6) counters for the Scottish Hill Runners championship series.
Usual carefree rush along the road from the start beside the Hotel towards the car park where the climb starts. Once on the path took it easy until warmed up about where the forest road crosses the track.
The path climbs in a series of steep sections followed by not so steep like a supersized rocky staircase. The trick, for me, is to keep the effort as even as possible and avoid too much oxygen debt but keep the edge on until near the top when a bit if extra effort is in order!
Sweat stops once the clear of the trees as the breeze takes away the heat.
Next section is up the narrow tourist path with a few angry spells when caught behind someone who sticks their elbows out as they don't want you to pass - anger usually a good sign and if you tuck in behind them they usually go a bit quicker than they should and eventually give way without too much bother.
Next is the 1st steep grassy climb off the path, steady plod, lost a few places here as usual. Back onto the path at about 1/2 way and running again up the plateau, gain a couple of lost places back before the 2nd grassy climb. Maintain effort up this section but getting closed down by a few others, reach the summit ridge without losing too many more places. Jog along to the top gasping for air and putting the gloves on for the descent. Best summit time yet of 67 mins.
Descent starts with a steady run back along the ridge not too fast as still recovering from the climb.
Concentration!
Let gravity take over as the path steepens. Gain places on each steep section, but some keen runners keep passing on the flatter parts, eventually dropped them down the steep grassy section from midway apart from one who tries to get away down the new ecologically sound path saving section. Hang on too his coat tails and once back on the path push past & kick again to keep clear.
Legs dead as usual back through the forrest but keep the brakes off and let gravity do its work at each downhill section.
Steady jog along the road for a PB descent as well to finish in 98:31.
Usual carefree rush along the road from the start beside the Hotel towards the car park where the climb starts. Once on the path took it easy until warmed up about where the forest road crosses the track.
The path climbs in a series of steep sections followed by not so steep like a supersized rocky staircase. The trick, for me, is to keep the effort as even as possible and avoid too much oxygen debt but keep the edge on until near the top when a bit if extra effort is in order!
Sweat stops once the clear of the trees as the breeze takes away the heat.
Next section is up the narrow tourist path with a few angry spells when caught behind someone who sticks their elbows out as they don't want you to pass - anger usually a good sign and if you tuck in behind them they usually go a bit quicker than they should and eventually give way without too much bother.
Next is the 1st steep grassy climb off the path, steady plod, lost a few places here as usual. Back onto the path at about 1/2 way and running again up the plateau, gain a couple of lost places back before the 2nd grassy climb. Maintain effort up this section but getting closed down by a few others, reach the summit ridge without losing too many more places. Jog along to the top gasping for air and putting the gloves on for the descent. Best summit time yet of 67 mins.
Descent starts with a steady run back along the ridge not too fast as still recovering from the climb.
Concentration!
Let gravity take over as the path steepens. Gain places on each steep section, but some keen runners keep passing on the flatter parts, eventually dropped them down the steep grassy section from midway apart from one who tries to get away down the new ecologically sound path saving section. Hang on too his coat tails and once back on the path push past & kick again to keep clear.
Legs dead as usual back through the forrest but keep the brakes off and let gravity do its work at each downhill section.
Steady jog along the road for a PB descent as well to finish in 98:31.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Not the Stuc a' Chroin, Sun 30th April
Missed the Stuc yesterday for the first time in 5 years, too many away days coming up. Looking at the reports missed another cracker, See the SHR Site for report & pics.
Plan for today's run was to go up Ben Vorlich. Good run up through Glen Loin to Corriegrogan walking the steep parts and running the rest and then on up the road towards the Sloy Dam.
Turning off the road at the man made culvert just past the main path avoids the lower boggy slopes and keeps the feet dry until the way down at least. The initial climb is a hard slog straight up beside a stream until rocky clffs reached. A quick traverse across to the right picks up the path which takes you on a maze like climb through crags into the heart of the mountain. Large slabs of rock appearing out of the clouds and big drops disappearing back in as well - couldn't see too much, so no panic here!
The slope eases the nearer to the top you get and the path eventually disappeared so turned up hill and found the trig point. Spent a few minutes on top in near silence with visibility down to about 30 yards.
Retraced steps to pick up the same path as on the way up. The day was mainly overcast with a light breeze on the top. Sun came out coming back through Glen Loin.
Met no-one on the way up and only a few people on the way down, Vorlich tends to be less busy than the other Arrochar Alps. Being up there early helps as well.
Plan for today's run was to go up Ben Vorlich. Good run up through Glen Loin to Corriegrogan walking the steep parts and running the rest and then on up the road towards the Sloy Dam.
Turning off the road at the man made culvert just past the main path avoids the lower boggy slopes and keeps the feet dry until the way down at least. The initial climb is a hard slog straight up beside a stream until rocky clffs reached. A quick traverse across to the right picks up the path which takes you on a maze like climb through crags into the heart of the mountain. Large slabs of rock appearing out of the clouds and big drops disappearing back in as well - couldn't see too much, so no panic here!
The slope eases the nearer to the top you get and the path eventually disappeared so turned up hill and found the trig point. Spent a few minutes on top in near silence with visibility down to about 30 yards.
Retraced steps to pick up the same path as on the way up. The day was mainly overcast with a light breeze on the top. Sun came out coming back through Glen Loin.
Met no-one on the way up and only a few people on the way down, Vorlich tends to be less busy than the other Arrochar Alps. Being up there early helps as well.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Whangie Whizz Wed 26th April 06
One of the best wee hill races, great introduction for anyone wanting to give it a go. Big field tonight with good runners at the front, Scottish Champs & former World Champs. Biggest turnout I've seen for this race reported to be 150 with a big Millie contingent.
Conditions just about right, cool, dry & bright, paths generally good with some mud - oh good - and the usual boggy bits - even better!
Having a good run until the 1st junior tried to pass me, they had set off 2 mins after us, quickly elbowed my way back in front of her, luckily the juniors turned back early & I could ease back before implosion! Time better than last year but about a minute down on my best, still pleased with the effort apart from the run back to the style where I suddenly realised I was able to breathe ( = not trying ) .
Conditions just about right, cool, dry & bright, paths generally good with some mud - oh good - and the usual boggy bits - even better!
Having a good run until the 1st junior tried to pass me, they had set off 2 mins after us, quickly elbowed my way back in front of her, luckily the juniors turned back early & I could ease back before implosion! Time better than last year but about a minute down on my best, still pleased with the effort apart from the run back to the style where I suddenly realised I was able to breathe ( = not trying ) .
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Arrochar Alps revisited Sun 23rd April
Instead of watching the London Marathon went back to try the 3 from 4 munro run again, weather a bit better than last week, forecast for sun and showers.
Planned route, starting at Succoth, Narnain, Bealach a Mhaim. Ime, Lag Uaine, Vane, Corriegrogan, back to Succoth via Glen Loin path, 13 miles & 6900'.
Going up Narnain generally less snow but more water and a herd of deer going towards A Chrois. Small shower just after the concrete blocks but otherwise sunshine & light breeze.
Some snow at the 1st gully but 2nd gully still full so went across to the next which was snow free, a bit steeper but ok.
Wet run down to the Bealach and up Ime. Generaly avoided snow where possible as it was a bit gloopy and always the chance of falling through into a stream. Large snow patches near the top of Ime so tip toe along summit paths. Steep slope off the back towards Glas Bealach pretty treacherous and took some time to pick out a path avoiding snow & ice as much as possible.
Run down to Lag Uaine and back up Vane wet and rough as usual. Snow increased towards the top but easy enough to skirt round. After a small snowshower on the way up hit the top in bright sunshine, didn't hang about as a bit behind schedule due to snow and ice.
Run off Vane started with a nightmare 50' bum crawl down near vertical snow slope with BIG snow coverd drop to the North and BIG grassy drop to the South. Hands and bum numb by the bottom and nerves frayed. Rest of the path ok but quite a bit more erosion than last year. Picked out a new path to avoid the swamp just before rejoining the Glen Loin path .
Ran down Glen Loin back to the car park in warm sunshine. Runtime 4:57.
Planned route, starting at Succoth, Narnain, Bealach a Mhaim. Ime, Lag Uaine, Vane, Corriegrogan, back to Succoth via Glen Loin path, 13 miles & 6900'.
Going up Narnain generally less snow but more water and a herd of deer going towards A Chrois. Small shower just after the concrete blocks but otherwise sunshine & light breeze.
Some snow at the 1st gully but 2nd gully still full so went across to the next which was snow free, a bit steeper but ok.
Wet run down to the Bealach and up Ime. Generaly avoided snow where possible as it was a bit gloopy and always the chance of falling through into a stream. Large snow patches near the top of Ime so tip toe along summit paths. Steep slope off the back towards Glas Bealach pretty treacherous and took some time to pick out a path avoiding snow & ice as much as possible.
Run down to Lag Uaine and back up Vane wet and rough as usual. Snow increased towards the top but easy enough to skirt round. After a small snowshower on the way up hit the top in bright sunshine, didn't hang about as a bit behind schedule due to snow and ice.
Run off Vane started with a nightmare 50' bum crawl down near vertical snow slope with BIG snow coverd drop to the North and BIG grassy drop to the South. Hands and bum numb by the bottom and nerves frayed. Rest of the path ok but quite a bit more erosion than last year. Picked out a new path to avoid the swamp just before rejoining the Glen Loin path .
Ran down Glen Loin back to the car park in warm sunshine. Runtime 4:57.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
5 Mile Handicap Thurs 20th April
23 runners turned out for the annual 5 mile handicap roon the Vale, conditions excellent, dry and cool, no wind. Passed by one for 3rd place in 33mins 2 secs, best time since 02. Ran by HRM, started with the aim of 163 max but by the Bonhill bridge accepted 170 and managed to maintain this all the way to the end. Bit of effort required in the last mile to maintain pace and struggled in the last 100 yards so pace probably about right for fitness.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Arrochar Alps detour 16th April
The Plan was for a run round 3 of the 4 munros, Narnain, Ime & Vane, nearly 13 miles and 6900' of climb. Snow still evident on the tops but hopefully ok.
Set off straight up Narnain from Succoth a few snow patches but nothing too bad until the last couple of gullies which were snow filled. Wind was getting up as well so stopped for a drink before going up to minimise the time spent exposed on the top. Using the compacted footprints already there quickly moved through the gullies and reached the top, pretty horrible up there so ran straight past the trig point and had an easier than usual run down through a snow filled boulder field into the Bealach a Mhaim.
The conditions on Ime are usually worse than Narnain, maybe as its 300' higher, so if it doesn't look good the plan was to go about half way up and then contour round into Glas Bheallach. More snow, wind and cloud meant it did not look too inviting plus the path along to the second peak is v exposed the drop off the back v steep and not too much fun in the snow and ice. Decided to contour round through Glas B into Lag Uaine and up Ben vane. Contoured round but tended to take the easy downhill option to get around the gullies and crags in the way, dropped too low so the contour took longer than planned and after about 30 mins realised a stiff climb was required to reach Glas B. Running round a mountain is harder than over the top!
Decided that the sensible option was to continue down to Butterbridge and run to the top of the Rest, down the old road and then pick up the forest rack through Glen Croe back to Succoth. Still a reasonable mornings run about 14 miles with 5000' of climb. Only a couple of pictures as it was too cold for the camera and me.
Set off straight up Narnain from Succoth a few snow patches but nothing too bad until the last couple of gullies which were snow filled. Wind was getting up as well so stopped for a drink before going up to minimise the time spent exposed on the top. Using the compacted footprints already there quickly moved through the gullies and reached the top, pretty horrible up there so ran straight past the trig point and had an easier than usual run down through a snow filled boulder field into the Bealach a Mhaim.
The conditions on Ime are usually worse than Narnain, maybe as its 300' higher, so if it doesn't look good the plan was to go about half way up and then contour round into Glas Bheallach. More snow, wind and cloud meant it did not look too inviting plus the path along to the second peak is v exposed the drop off the back v steep and not too much fun in the snow and ice. Decided to contour round through Glas B into Lag Uaine and up Ben vane. Contoured round but tended to take the easy downhill option to get around the gullies and crags in the way, dropped too low so the contour took longer than planned and after about 30 mins realised a stiff climb was required to reach Glas B. Running round a mountain is harder than over the top!
Decided that the sensible option was to continue down to Butterbridge and run to the top of the Rest, down the old road and then pick up the forest rack through Glen Croe back to Succoth. Still a reasonable mornings run about 14 miles with 5000' of climb. Only a couple of pictures as it was too cold for the camera and me.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Stoneymollen Hill Race Thurs 13th April
Completed this short sharp 5 mile hill race over Bromley & Overton Muirs via the Stoneymollen path in 44 mins 17 s for 3rd place. Ok for the conditions, nice and soft with some waist deep bogs on the way. On the way up the Stoney views of Loch Lomond and after the trig point views over Dumbarton and the firth of Clyde towards Helensburgh. Good turnout with 16 runners braving the weather, mixture of downpour to bright sunshine in the space of a few minutes.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Luss Horse Shoe Sun 9th April
An undulating route of about 12 miles and 5000' total ascent. There are two main climbs, the first one up Beinn Dubh and the second from Sith Mor to Doune Hill. Overall distance depends on navigation particularly the drop into Sith Mor. Run mainly on paths apart from the drop into & out of Sith Mor.
Snow level from about 1500'.
Set off at 8:30 in the sun from the bottom of Glen Luss on the 2000' climb up Beinn Dubh. From there it's a 1 1/2 mile jog undulating round Coire ne h-Eanachan and Coire Carlaig before plunging 1200' down into Sith Mor.
The 2nd big climb, 1700' up to Doune Hill, includes trying to catch a deer! The last 200' pretty much covered in snow and ice demanding concentration in the strong winds. The snow varies depending on the aspect of the slope to the prevailling wind from solid frozen where you crunch in less than an inch to thigh deep in the space of a few feet.
From Doune Hill a good run down to Beinn Lochan and a then bit of care required up into the deeper snow & ice on the narrow ridge to Beinn Eich.
The 1800' drop off Beinn Eich starts in snow until the slope steepens. Below the snow line it's mostly firm due to the cold semi frozen ground, boggy bit at the bottom as usual, easy 2 mile jog down Glen Luss back to sanctuary of the car.
Carried full wind/waterproof body cover and thermal hat/gloves, not needed as long as you keep moving. Feet damp due to snow and mud, again ok as long as you keep moving.
Good run in fine conditions, 5 or 10 mins short of 4 hrs, some pictures in the Gallery.
Snow level from about 1500'.
Set off at 8:30 in the sun from the bottom of Glen Luss on the 2000' climb up Beinn Dubh. From there it's a 1 1/2 mile jog undulating round Coire ne h-Eanachan and Coire Carlaig before plunging 1200' down into Sith Mor.
The 2nd big climb, 1700' up to Doune Hill, includes trying to catch a deer! The last 200' pretty much covered in snow and ice demanding concentration in the strong winds. The snow varies depending on the aspect of the slope to the prevailling wind from solid frozen where you crunch in less than an inch to thigh deep in the space of a few feet.
From Doune Hill a good run down to Beinn Lochan and a then bit of care required up into the deeper snow & ice on the narrow ridge to Beinn Eich.
The 1800' drop off Beinn Eich starts in snow until the slope steepens. Below the snow line it's mostly firm due to the cold semi frozen ground, boggy bit at the bottom as usual, easy 2 mile jog down Glen Luss back to sanctuary of the car.
Carried full wind/waterproof body cover and thermal hat/gloves, not needed as long as you keep moving. Feet damp due to snow and mud, again ok as long as you keep moving.
Good run in fine conditions, 5 or 10 mins short of 4 hrs, some pictures in the Gallery.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Time Trial 30th March
Thursday nights Club 4.3 mile time trial, 30:30, maintained a steady pace but legs still not really doing what they are meant to and couldn't have gone much faster without risk of pain & injury, probably a combination of marathon & post mara cold.
Monday, March 20, 2006
Progress wk14 and RACE
This week saw only a couple of easy 5 milers to keep the legs ticking over.
Race day, Dumfries Marathon Sunday 19th March 2006, provisional results 3 hrs 39 mins 13 secs and 75th place out of 180, a bit slower than intended.
1st mile or so at 7:30 pace, a bit quicker than planned, not a good idea, managed to slow it to the planned 7:50 pace from miles 2 to 7, mile 8 pace slowed going up the hill, didn't like that, indication that maybe this pace is a bit too fast. More of that later.
The next 2 or 3 miles are downhill, back to target pace without any noticable effort, but mile 12 too fast at 7:30, caught 4 or 5 people over these miles, too early to start that nonesense!
Next 3 miles at target 7:50 pace.
Miles 16 to 21 pace gradually drifts through 8:00 and on up to 8:30, working too hard, getting stressed, and people passing me now.
Just after the 21 mile marker sudden and severe cramp - had to stop twice within 10 yards and stretch, lost about 3 mins to plan, therafter shuffled in at around 10 min mile pace - couldn't go any faster.
All in a good race, only a minute or so down on the PB run from my last marathon in London 4 years ago.
Will I run another? who knows, but some lessons would need to be learned, even with the more balanced programme used this time the target improvement of 8 to 10 mins is probably too much with the same mileage. Instead of the target pace of 7:50 possibly 8:10 would have brought me home in one piece, remember it is a marathon, hindsight might have been a wonderful thing.
Scenic course, pretty flat, hills at 8 miles and 23 miles plus a few undulations in between, nothing serious.
Race organistation excellent with feed stations, water and orange juice about every 3 or 4 miles. Collected energy drink sent out to mile 12.
Weather was good, cool, no wind, some weak sun and one short light rain shower in the 2nd half.
Hopefully I can carry fitness on to this years real races on the Hills...
Race day, Dumfries Marathon Sunday 19th March 2006, provisional results 3 hrs 39 mins 13 secs and 75th place out of 180, a bit slower than intended.
1st mile or so at 7:30 pace, a bit quicker than planned, not a good idea, managed to slow it to the planned 7:50 pace from miles 2 to 7, mile 8 pace slowed going up the hill, didn't like that, indication that maybe this pace is a bit too fast. More of that later.
The next 2 or 3 miles are downhill, back to target pace without any noticable effort, but mile 12 too fast at 7:30, caught 4 or 5 people over these miles, too early to start that nonesense!
Next 3 miles at target 7:50 pace.
Miles 16 to 21 pace gradually drifts through 8:00 and on up to 8:30, working too hard, getting stressed, and people passing me now.
Just after the 21 mile marker sudden and severe cramp - had to stop twice within 10 yards and stretch, lost about 3 mins to plan, therafter shuffled in at around 10 min mile pace - couldn't go any faster.
All in a good race, only a minute or so down on the PB run from my last marathon in London 4 years ago.
Will I run another? who knows, but some lessons would need to be learned, even with the more balanced programme used this time the target improvement of 8 to 10 mins is probably too much with the same mileage. Instead of the target pace of 7:50 possibly 8:10 would have brought me home in one piece, remember it is a marathon, hindsight might have been a wonderful thing.
Scenic course, pretty flat, hills at 8 miles and 23 miles plus a few undulations in between, nothing serious.
Race organistation excellent with feed stations, water and orange juice about every 3 or 4 miles. Collected energy drink sent out to mile 12.
Weather was good, cool, no wind, some weak sun and one short light rain shower in the 2nd half.
Hopefully I can carry fitness on to this years real races on the Hills...
Monday, March 13, 2006
Progress Wk 13
2nd taper week, even less miles, easy or not, switched the plan around to give a run every second day - couldn't miss a run for 2 days in a row! 2 m6 steadies in 48:39 & 48:08 hopefully reflect move towards race pace. Sundays easy 10 miler was made a bit more difficult in the snow but made use of the empty lochside roads to reduce the effort. It's pasta, pasta, pasta from now on. 30 miles completed to a plan of 30.
Monday, March 06, 2006
Progress Wk 12
1st taper week, drop some of the easy mileage, cut back overall distance. Week starts with an m8 steady run in 65 on Tues, couple of easy runs then another 10 Yasso Friday, Cut down Sunday.
42 miles completed to a plan of 45.
42 miles completed to a plan of 45.
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Progress Wk 11
Max mileage week, 6 runs with the usual mix apart from Tuesday, instead of a steady run took on the 4 hills round the vale. Achieved 10 Yasso on Friday, cold & v windy, slight wobble at 8, no real problems. After late night Friday a bit stiff for Sat 3 parks easy. 24 miler on Sunday am on the road, longest distance but a bit quicker than last week. Bright & Sunny, views of Ben Lomond & the Cobbler all the way, both snow capped. Met Jim McI & Izzy on the way back down the horseshoe. Training for Conemmara I think. Its taper time now, have we put enough work in?
60 miles completed to a plan of 60.
60 miles completed to a plan of 60.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Plan Wk 11
| DATE | EXERCISE | DIST |
|---|---|---|
| 20/2/06 | Easy | 5 |
| 21/2/06 | Steady | 10 |
| 23/2/06 | Easy | 6 |
| 24/2/06 | 10*800 | 9 |
| 25/2/06 | Easy | 6 |
| 26/2/06 | Endurance | 24 |
Progress Wk 10
5 runs this week, easy 4 miler to start followed by a longer steady run, slightly slow due to tiredness and a strong wind on the way back. Easy 5 mile club run Thursday and back to the Yasso routine on Friday, poor concentration causing the only wobble on number 6. Good Sunday 23 miler, Ardgarten plus Cats Crag loops, sunshine most of the way.
50 miles completed to a plan of 50.
50 miles completed to a plan of 50.
Monday, February 13, 2006
Progress Wk 9
Toughest week so far and with the Carnethy 5 hill race on Saturday the schedule had to be rearranged, so no Yasso this week! The C5 went well in winds around 50 mph on the tops along with some mist and rain. Hopefully a sign the training is working that with only Friday off to "prepare" still managed a 4 min+ PB. New shoes for Sundays long run, another hard one, 21 miles and 3900 feet of climbing, same route as 2 weeks ago but in reverse and 10 mins slower.
55 miles completed to a plan of 55.
55 miles completed to a plan of 55.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Plan Wk 9
| DATE | EXERCISE | DIST |
|---|---|---|
| 6/2/06 | Easy | 4 |
| 7/2/06 | Steady | 10 |
| 9/2/06 | Easy | 5 |
| 10/2/06 | 9*800 | 9 |
| 11/2/06 | Easy | 5 |
| 12/2/06 | Endurance | 22 |
Progress Wk8
Easier week with only 5 runs, started with an easy recovery run on Monday then a 10 Miler on Tuesday including 8 steady in 64 mins. Common sense prevails with Thursday's club run limited to 5 miles despite temptation to go with the crowd for 8, this probably helped to make Friday's speedwork achievable. Slept in on Sunday but still covered the planned 18 miler on the road, need new shoes!
46 Miles completed to a plan of 46.
46 Miles completed to a plan of 46.
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Progress Wk7
Good easy run on the Monday, trouble on Tuesday with the planned 8 mile steady, legs didn't feel right from the start, slight cold/temp so didn't push too hard and took the rest of the week at easy pace, no speedwork on Friday, legs starting to recover, 21 miler in Arrochar on Sunday went ok, beautiful morning, good company.
50 miles completed to a plan of 50.
50 miles completed to a plan of 50.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Plan wk 7
| DATE | EXERCISE | DIST |
|---|---|---|
| 23/1/06 | Easy | 4 |
| 24/1/06 | Steady | 8 |
| 26/1/06 | Easy | 4 |
| 27/1/06 | 8*800 | 8 |
| 28/1/06 | Easy | 5 |
| 29/1/06 | Endurance | 21 |
Progress wK 6
Going forward again this week, started with an easy 5 miler then a steady 8 miler at slightly faster than race pace with 4 good hills thrown in. With a club xc race on Saturday followed by the standard 20 miler from Ardgarten on Sunday (climbing 4000' plus) the Yasso's were set aside this week. xc race went well with a pb by 20 odd seconds in calm/damp conditions.
45 Miles completed to a plan of 46.
45 Miles completed to a plan of 46.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Progress Wk 5
This is an easy week! The aim from now on is to carry out steady runs at target race pace, uneven this time but should sort itself out over the next few weeks. Up to 7 Yasso's now finishing in the dark on a waterlogged Posties track, with flooding on about 20% of each lap. Long run moved to Arrochar to get off road as much as possible. Ran from Succoth to the Rest and B Thankful on forest tracks coming back via the Cats Crag loop, managed to keep the road work down to about a mile. Started slow so felt ok at the end, included 3500 feet of climbing. Welcome breakfast in Tarbet after.
39 miles completed to plan of 38.
39 miles completed to plan of 38.
Progress Wk 4
Started running again on the 2nd of January and turning over a new leaf managed to stick to the plan rather than try and catch up for the loss of week 3, gold star. Usually try to catch up with disatrous results, managed to hit the Yasso target times with lowest HR to date, more evidence that the rest seems to have done some good, good long slow run on a sunny Sunday am over to Ardmore point, beautiful air, blue skies & sea but freezing.
41 miles completed to plan of 42.
41 miles completed to plan of 42.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Progess wks 1 to 3
Everything went fine until 23/12 when high heart rate and failure to achieve target times (should have) indicated potential problems. Politics dictated that I ran 25/12 Endurance on 26/12. The rest of the month did not happen due to just not being right! 69 miles completed to plan of 92, don't panic it's christmas...
Plan wks 1 to 3
| DATE | EXERCISE | MILES |
|---|---|---|
| 13/12/05 | Steady | 8 |
| 15/12/05 | Easy | 5 |
| 16/12/05 | 5*800 | 7 |
| 18/12/05 | Endurance | 15 |
| 20/12/05 | Steady | 8 |
| 22/12/05 | Easy | 5 |
| 23/12/05 | 5*800 | 7 |
| 25/12/05 | Endurance | 15 |
| 26/12/05 | Easy | 5 |
| 27/12/05 | Steady | 5 |
| 29/12/05 | Easy | 5 |
| 30/12/05 | 6*800 | 7 |
| 1/1/06 | Endurance | 16 |
Dumfries Marathon '06
Having been seduced by Hill Running over the past few years I have been unable to find the motivation to do another marathon.
Finally the itch has to be scratched & have another go!
In 2002 I did both the Dumfries & London marathons and Dumfries being resurected for 2006 has given me a target, so all things being equal I'll be there on the 19th of March.
For races like this I need a structured programme to avoid burnout as I move towards D day. This also has to fit in around family life and work, not easy!
So here goes, I'll publish my programme for each week in advance along with a resume of the previous weeks effort. (Dec '05 in arrears!!).
The type of programme I develop work for me but is basically 2 or 3 weeks forward then 1 week back, each week comprising the usual weekend long run, off road if poss, 1 progressive speedwork session, 1 longish hilly run and the rest as easy as my nature permits.
Weekly mileage planned to start about 35 building to 60 then a 3 to 4 week taper.
For those who know the area a favourite easy run would be up the Stoneymollen and along the moor returning to the Vale by the radiomast and the cemetary!!
Finally the itch has to be scratched & have another go!
In 2002 I did both the Dumfries & London marathons and Dumfries being resurected for 2006 has given me a target, so all things being equal I'll be there on the 19th of March.
For races like this I need a structured programme to avoid burnout as I move towards D day. This also has to fit in around family life and work, not easy!
So here goes, I'll publish my programme for each week in advance along with a resume of the previous weeks effort. (Dec '05 in arrears!!).
The type of programme I develop work for me but is basically 2 or 3 weeks forward then 1 week back, each week comprising the usual weekend long run, off road if poss, 1 progressive speedwork session, 1 longish hilly run and the rest as easy as my nature permits.
Weekly mileage planned to start about 35 building to 60 then a 3 to 4 week taper.
For those who know the area a favourite easy run would be up the Stoneymollen and along the moor returning to the Vale by the radiomast and the cemetary!!
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