Beinn An Lochain

A short but steep run this week 5 miles and 2500' of ascent. Early start, warm but tops in cloud. Ran along from the R&BT car park to the North End of Loch Restil, crossed the stream and went up a feint path in an obvious gulley to meet the ridge path coming up from Butterbridge. Soon into the cloud which meant we could not see the views or much of the airy drops which accompany this climb.

Reached a claggy top in 68 minutes and carried straight on over to the second lower top then down the SW ridge for a couple of hundred yards to miss the crags below the summit before turning SE then E dropping steeply down soft grassy slopes into Gleann Mor and back round to the R&BT Car Park. Finished in just under 2 hours.

Glen Douglas

New route today, I had made a loose arrangement to mebee run with one of the other runners who was at Luss yesterday, after a couple of texts I left the Vale to meet in Tarbet at half 11 and after a short section of railway track we set off straight up Ben Reoch, pathless tussocky steep. Climing 2000' in just over a mile soon had me sweating last nights beer out. The plan was Ben Reoch, Beinn Bhreac, Doune Hill (ha) and Tullich Hill to finish depending how we? felt. No paths and few if any people on these quiet hills overlooking Lochs Lomond and Long. Easy running from Reoch to Bhreac where we had a break for food and photos. We then gave back the hard earned 2000' on the steep descent to Invergroin in Glen Douglas. Across the road and up beside the missile base fence towards Doune Hill via the adjacent unamed top. Another stiff climb 1800' in a mile and a half, my partner for the day took in both tops, one of them twice, I met him about half way up DH's final climb turning back for the run into Glen Douglas. We separated on the descent and after a bit of a delay met up in the valley where I decided to run back to Tarbet via the Three Lochs trail my pal running back over Tullich Hill. Stunning views and weather requiring plenty of sun cream, water and visits to just about every stream we crossed. Excluding waiting time about 5 hours 40 for 14 miles and close to 6000' of ascent. I took a few pictures from Beinn Bhreac and one from the Three Lochs Trail.

Luss Highland Games

Summer arrives for today's games, had a go at four races, the local 90 m, last, and in trying to sprint realised how stiff I am, 20 minutes later the local 200 m led until about 20 metres from the end, victory snatched from my grasp, 5th I think. The local Hill race about half an hour later takes you half way up the small hill behind the games field then back, 4th out of 6 in 19:53, the Open Hill Race a couple of hours later goes to the top of the same hill and back, 7th out of 9 in 33:56. For both hill races you enjoy a lap of the games field at the start and the finish, and a good reception from the crowd. Other highlights of the day, two cake stalls and the beer tent. Missed the kilted dash as I had no tartan although one guy ran in a teddy bear rug?

Ted Baker

9th running of the Club Hill race up to Pappert Well, hosted by Pete n Mo, runnable at about 5 miles and 1000' of ascent. 17 Millies set off in 6 groups, the idea is we all finish together, pretty good grouping as all but a couple finish in order and the first 8 finishing within a couple of minutes of each other. Started off nice n steady along the road then tried to keep a good effort on the new hardcore path through the woods beside Pappert. The moorland path is not too steep so just keep as high a tempo as my wee legs allow. Slowed slightly before the trig point then tried to pick the pace up again on the way back down past the Well. A steady run on the hardcore path through the woods before a short down, up, down on the road, the bell welcomes us back, finishing 3rd in the handicap but 4th by time in 43:43. Post run chat, cakes and tablet, courtesy of our kind hosts, how to run and put weight on!

Arrochar Alps

My last attempt at this race was a DNF, low cloud made for difficult navigation and I gave up when it was clear I wouldn't make the next checkpoint cut off. Complacency was the real culprit, although rough and trackless, a few bearings worked out in the comfort of your own home make all the difference. Low cloud forecast again this year and I left the Vale with cloud below 1000'.

Over thirty runners set off on the Glen Loin trail at 11, only a couple behind me for the 4 mile run to the Vorlich path, left the road after 40 minutes giving 1 hour 20 to get up and back down to the Sloy dam. Its a long trudge to the top and I try to settle in to a steady pace, only one or two runners in sight in the clouds, we leave the path to cut out some corners but I swing back across to the path as its smoother and not as steep. Ghostly runners come flying past in the mist when I reach the summit ridge and a few minutes later after a 55 minute climb I get to the top, no marshals, only a kite and punch to record your visit. This leaves 25 minutes which is ok for the descent to Sloy dam. In the cloud three of us miss the steep drop off the ridge and chose one further along, not as steep and no real loss of time and I swing across to pick up the ususal line and reach the dam in 2 hours and seconds.

Next Ben Vane where it went wrong last time, losing 20 minutes on the steep trackless climb. About 6 of us go to the left of the large buttress behind the dam and then up on a 220 degree bearing which I hoped would lead to a steep rock filled gulley to the summit ridge. The first part of the climb went well, my bearing tied in with a series of gullies and gaps in the crags, a couple of the other runners popping in and out of the clag on similar lines. Large crags imposed a couple of worrying deviations to the chosen bearing but I could now hear a stream which hopefully was the one that runs along near the bottom of the gulley. Just then the clouds cleared around us and I could relax, spot on for the gulley to the top. It gets quite steep for the last few yards, a bit of a scramble. Back into cloud at the top I start on my bearing for the run off Vane, when I reach this rock arc round to the left to miss the worst of the crags, towards the bottom I could see the two runners in front and appeared to be closing in until I went too close to the last set of crags which slowed me down.

From Lag Uaine I go up a narrow ridge towards Glas Bhealach the two in front going off to the left, two behind slowly closing in, hard work now, they catch and pass me just as I leave GB for the last 900' climb up Ben Ime. I catch them having a breather at the summit and ran past. The run off Ime deceptive as the path splits and the wrong one leads you to steep cliffs just as the right one fades away for a while, a 165 bearing takes me to the checkpoint at Bealach a Mhaim.

The clouds break revealing glimpses of the path for the last climb up Narnain, I try to push on but it feels very slow, thankfully its the shortest climb of the day and the summit cairns soon appear through the cloud. The run off Narnain a tricky 3000' drop in two miles starts with a careful scramble through the spearhead then a twisty narrow track down a series of steep drops. Pop out below the clouds after about 25 minutes and Arrochar comes in to view with a runner just in front, he must be struggling as I catch and pass him easily. One last scramble down a rocky muddy stream then its down a path covered with huge concrete blocks. Timecheck as I reach the forest road is 5 hours 33, and I jog in to finish in 5 hours 46 and 27th out of 30 finishers.

Beinn Duhbchraig

Set off at 12 from Dalrigh along to Cononish then up Beinn Dubhchraigs Northern shoulder, steep at first then becomes runable before it kicks up again before the summit. I was carrying enough food and clothes to run the 4 munros and as I left Dalrigh there was only puffs of cloud on the summits. Into the cloud at about 2500 feet mist more than rain, I soon picked up the ridge path and found the summit cone, a bit wet and windy up here. The run along to Ben Oss twists and turns as it drops 700 feet to the beallach between them. Rain heavier, wind picked up and the cloud seemed to be dropping lower pouring off Duhbchraigs shoulder into Coire Garbh, Loch Oss 500 feet below dissapearing faster than I was descending. I arrived at the turning point to aim for the climb to Oss's summit, feeling cold and a bit damp, checked out the map then decided to call it a day. My escape route was to descend to Loch Oss then contour round Duhbchraig's eastern shoulder where a path would take me back to Dalrigh. Dropped down to Loch Oss out of the cloud, wind and rain and soon felt better. Ran down through Coire Garbh round Loch Oss over peat hags and bog but with great views down Loch Lomond. Chased a herd of deer along Dubhchraigs Eastern face the Stag eventually gathering his herd down into a forest. Soon met the path back to Dalrigh through fir trees beside a tumbling highland stream, the fir trees soon gave way to Scots Pine, a pleasant run off th ehill. A wade through the river Cononish and across the WHW to finish. Just over 4 hours for 12 miles and 3800 feet of climbing.

Stoneymollan

Cort Ma Law

Boggiest Bog n Burn race for a while, 6 miles and 1700 feet of ascent. The rain held off but the ground was soft. After the climb up from Jamie Right's Well to the top of Cort Ma Law you think the hard work is done then you hit the undulating swamp on the run round to Lecket Hill. An emerald green sea, your not sure if its ankle deep or waist deep, you find the waist deep ones when your going like a wee train, its hard to get going again, then you stop at every one, suspicious, you hear the runner behind coming and just go for it. Three thigh deep plunges meant the runners behind kept catching up, the soft ground making for a hard run. Respite after reaching the top of Lecket, downhill and the bogs are narrow enough to jump. For a change I managed to stay on my feet in the run into the gulley then a slow trudge back out. Slowly get back to running but one more plunge just before I reach the safety of the path. Jump the fence and run as hard as possible across the moor and a fast descent to finish in just over 69 minutes.

Yetholm

The 3rd race from this years SHR Championship, this was my second as I missed Slioch, nearly missed this one as well, I forgot my shorts and lost 30 minutes finding a shop in Stirling with anything resembling shorts that I could run in. Made registration in Town Yetholm with a minute to spare. Classed as a medium race, 8 miles with 2500 feet of climbing, The route alternates between clockwise and anticlockwise, last time I ran here was in 2005 when it was clockwise, this time anti. Typical rolling borders hills, on the way out we went over Staerough, Sunnyside, Wildgoose and Latchley Hills, then up the biggest climb, the Curr, from the Curr we ran back via the Pennine way, past Black Hag along Steer Rig over White Law before an undulating grassy descent back to the start. No major climbs and no rocks or boulders to contend with. Finished just under 1 hour 34 about 20 seconds quicker than 2005.

Jura n beyond

Set off on Friday morning for the Jura Fell Race, 7500 FOA and 16 miles. I hoped to break 6 hours. A drive to Kennacraig for the Calmac ferry to Islay then another ferry across the sound of Islay to Feolin on Jura, saved energy this year and took the bus to Craighouse. Another contrast to last year was the wind, low cloud and rain. Arrived at Craighouse on a dreich afternoon, got the tent up and went into the cooperage which doubles as race headquarters. The locals put on a good show of home baking for the weekend and spent a pleasant hour drinking tea, eating scones and cakes. Time for a rest before tea and a couple of pints in the Jura Hotel. Too wet for much of a walk after tea so an early night.

Race day and a pleasant surprise, bright and breezy, plenty of blue sky. Even though not everyone was through the Start Control the race starts at 10:30 on the dot, the rest of us throw the first of our 10 checkpoint tags towards the steward and set off. The first 5 miles take us over 2500 feet of climbing and the three summit checkpoints of Beinns, Dubh, Glas and Aonach, cut off times are strictly enforced, a runner passed me wearing long pink shorts, it would be good to beat him. I reached the first checkpoint in 53 mins, 7 minutes inside the cutoff. This section is typical of Scottish hills, an undulating mass of bog and rock, a contrast to the straight up and down of the Paps. Leaving Aonach-beinn we drop steeply for the peat bog crossing of Gleann Astaile.

Next its a steep rock and boulder roller coaster over the three Paps, 4000 feet of up and down over 5 miles. The first Pap Beinn a' Chaolais starts off grassy, then gets progressively rockier towards the top where its a mass of shattered boulders, admiring the views as I approach the summit, I am caught by a sharp shower of stinging hail, luckily this soon passes, I managed to cover my face but the rash on my legs is still there nearly a week later. The run off the top a fun steep twisty scree path, I arrive at the bottom too soon for the short boggy crossing to Pap 2, Beinn an Oir, pretty much straight up again through rocks, boulders and more boulders, at the top I stumble along the rocky path then take a sharp right at an old ruin down a rocky track. The last Pap, Beinn Shiantaidh appears impassable from the glen but you pick your way up gullies and ledges to another moonscape top of shattered rock, a tough descent down scree and boulders, towards the bottom you can pick up a number of narrow trods to take you round to the last climb, 600 or so feet in half a mile up Corra Beinn. At the top I look at my watch for the first time since CP1, 4 hours 53, gave me something to chase over the last 6 miles.

The three mile 1800 feet descent to Three Arch Bridge achieved in 34 minutes with a bashed shin and several plunges into peaty ditches left me 32 minutes for three flat road miles to the finish. I could see the runner in front and worked at closing him down, then another couple, the last one I caught had long pink shorts, he stayed with me and we worked together for the last mile and a half, he urged me to go on for the last few hundred yards and I crossed the line just inside 5 hours 59. For a feel of the route and terrain check out this link for pictures taken by another, faster, runner on his way round.

More tea and cakes and a couple of pints while watching the prizegiving before I felt brave enough for the cold shower. A pleasant evening spent eating and drinking in the Jura Hotel before another early night.

Got up early on Sunday for a walk back to Feolin, wet and windy so I was lucky to get a lift within a few minutes and meant I could get the first boat back to Kennacraig. The best place to sit was the front deck outside as the sun came out with the added bonus of a pod of Dolphins leaping around in front of us.

From Kennacraig I drove up to Arisaig and Camusdarrach Campsite to meet my better half and friends for a few days beside the sea. They had been there in wind and rain since Friday, I brought the sun. I even managed a swim on Monday. Some Jura and Arisaig pictures here.

We arrived back on Wednesday afternoon and by the time we unpacked I still had time to get to Old Kilpatrick for the evening Bog and Burn race, 6 miles and 1400 FOA. Light rain greeted the start and continued for much of the race, managed to wheezily run most of the uphills. Pictures here . The first half mile is on road, then a runnable climb up onto the hill for a flattish run across moor and farm track past loch Humphrey, a couple of minor climbs then round Greenside reservoir before the short drag up the Slacks, from the trig point at the top you head straight for the Clyde a slight route change over a new style instead of the coffee table to rejoin the outward route, finished just over 63 minutes.

Stoneymollan

Another easy weekend run, set off for a lap of Stoneymollan and luckily got round before the rain. As it was a short run I put a bit of effort in taking 10 minutes of my usual time.

Arrochar undulations

Set off early for today's run, from Succoth, tide in, up Glen Loin, over Ben Vane, Beinn's Ime and Narnain and the Cobbler to finish avoiding the crowds by returning to Succouth via a new route for me the Cobblers SE ridge. Took it easy through Glen Loin walking the bigger hills, the track to the Ben Vane turn felt hard. Steady trudge up Ben Vane, thoughts of cutting the run short never far away, towards the top into the clouds and a blustery wind, sheltered just before the summit for something to eat and dug the compass out for the 280 degree run off. Over the top and into a gale, trot along the bearing to this rock, time to turn left and drop down into Lag Uaine. Soon out the cloud and work my way round the crags into the glen. Find my exit ridge for the climb towards Glas Bhealach, its between two streams and has a faint path to follow, easier than the open hillside. From Glas Bhealach things got harder as an icy squall blew in, sheltered behind a boulder, two buffs on and hood up then set off for Ben Ime's steep northern slopes. Head down and went for it, a bit of dermabraision from the hail, arms wrapped around me for warmth, the higher I went the colder I got, legs turning blue but didn't want to stop to put on extra gear in case it got blown away on the exposed slopes. Reached the top a bit quicker than usual. Some more food then gloves on sheltering behind the summit. Decided to call it a day after this unless the cloud lifted. Legs painful on the descent, kept working, trying to get some life back into them. Started down on my usual bearing but soon under the clouds. Gradually felt better until I realised Narnain and the Cobbler were both clear. Ran though Bealach a' Mhaim, easy to locate the path up Narnain, ran where I could. Reached the top in just under 4 hours. More food in the shelter of the wall at the trig point. The run back towards Bealach a'Mhaim a bit stop start on the badly eroded path. Lots of walkers climbing the Cobbler's back stairs and set off after them, great climb and as the gradient eases I manage a run to the busy summit ridge. Pick my way slowly along the twisty bouldery ridge path to the western end for a run down the quieter SE ridge. Great views back towards the Cobbler and across to Narnain. Legs complaining a bit on the run off the ridge to meet the new zig zag path. A nice easy jog back to Succoth, tide out. 15 miles and 7700' of ascent over the four tops, finished in 5 hours 44. A few pictures here.

Riverbank 5k

Third running of the Clubs 5k starting from the rear gate to Cameron House, through Lomond Shores and onto the cycle path on the Leven finishing just past the Vale Academy. 18 of us set off in 5 groups, we all had someone to run with and chase, tried to run at an even pace and thought I kept the first mile steady but struggled on the second mile. Managed to keep it going with a good effort for the third, please to finish in 20:48. Photos Here.

Ben Lomond

A warm and windless afternoon greeted the runners as we set off at 1 pm for my yearly attempt to get under 1 hour 40. A quick dash along the road then up through whats left of the woods. Came out the woods in a small group and ran as many of the flatter parts as I could. Seemed to work as I didn't lose as much distance as usual on the steep parts. Onto the shoulder at half way and running up into the clouds. At the top they kick you off the track again over rough ground to meet the ridge path, working hard now the up part is nearly over. Reach the top in just over 69 minutes, a quick drink from the summit marshall and off chasing the runners in front. The run off the ridge tricky down the rocky zig zags while trying to overtake as many as possible. The close proximity of other runners means careful foot placement as we all tend to go for similar lines while keeping our chaotic descent upright. The first part of the plateau just as tricky, not as steep but still plenty of rocks to hop over as we try to pick up the pace. Settle into a steady pace as the plateau levels off, towards the end we leave the trail down a steep grassy bank, thunder and lightning overhead helps increase the pace. Through the gate and back on the path then just when you think the routes changed and its path all the way back we are directed onto trackless boggy tussocks for a few hundred yards. Soon we're back on the path again and losing concentration for a second down I go, knees, hip and hands take a battering in a rocky ditch, try to roll out of major impact and get going again without losing any places, although running with a limp for the next two hundred yards slows me down a bit. Knee soon eases and back up to speed for the bad step, tip toe through and down into the forest. Keep working hard, in traffic again, route choice important to keep passing slower descenders. Back on the road and muster a last effort to finish just over 1 hour 41. Pictures from the finish here.

Dumyat

Extremely dry for the Dunyat race, 5 miles 1250' of ascent, a nice wee up and down from the grounds of Stirling Uni. Over 300 runners made for a busy race, started in the middle of the pack lost a few places going up then got them back going down. Road and track leading into bluebell woods then onto the hill, ran more of the ups than usual and got to the top in just under 32 mins, about a minute more than I was looking for, concentration a bit wayward. Round the trig point and down through a mass of runners still coming up, gradually picked up the pace making good use of gravity but wary of a fall on the busy paths. Nice run down through the woods, the steep muddy bank too dry to attract much of a crowd. Nice n steady along the up part of the track then gradually wound up the pace all the way to the finish once back on the downhill. Finished in 155 place in 49 mins 10. Civilised end with a shower and then the Uni cafe for food before the drive home. Some pictures here.

Stuc A Chroin

143 started the 14 mile 5000' Long Classic race from the village of Strathyre. Beautiful sunny day luckily with a strong cooling breeze. Covered the two miles of forest track undulating up in 22 minutes, felt like I pushed too hard. Through the trees and onto the moor, steady jog walk towards Meall Mor and an easy run down into Glen Ample. Kept to my own pace on the ascent of Beinn Each, letting one or two past on the short level sections on the way to the crags. Three or four got past just after the crags as the path steepened up and I slow down. Let them go, hoping to catch them later. Good run off the top of Beinn Each, caught and passed a few on the ridge. Felt harder than I would have hoped, still, views to die for and the breeze kept you from overheating. After about a mile of undulating ridge you have a 1000' in a mile climb up the Stuc's SW Ridge, yo yo time again as those I had passed on the ridge drift pass me. Reach the top of the Stuc in 2 hours 11, a few minutes down on schedule. Round the cairn and ease after those in front, not too fast as there's a few undulations on the way back and Glen Ample as well. Gradually pull a few places back on the run off the Stuc, the ridge along to Bealach nan Cabar and the drop back in to Glen Ample. Steady traverse along to the crossover hoping somethings left in the tank. Cross the bottom of Glen Ample and the first part of the climb ok for me although yo yo time again as I'm passed by two or three. Cramp hits about half way up but luckily another runner offers me some nuun drink which seems to help almost immediately and although losing ground on those in front I manage to run out the Glen as the slope eases. Jog over the col then try to make a steady pace back across the moor, gradually reel in and pass the three in front, one sticks with me and overtakes on the last up before the forest. Overtake and leave him on the run into the forest and pass another couple oh and a wee fall in a ditch. Back on the forest track, keep it steady for the first slightly uphill mile hoping that no one passes, one guy does, a wee chat then he's off. The last mile is downhill, not steep but enough to help you along, I can hear footsteps behind, lean forward, lengthen my stride but can't shake him and he soon passes. Manage to catch another three before the end, a couple of them barely jogging, then a quick finish required to keep ahead of the kind runner who gave me the Nuun, 3 hours 36 for 105th place. Super race, route on the hill fully marked with 30 or 40 friendly marshalls out on the hills, laden with water, sweets and loads of encouragement.

A few pictures here.

Whangie

First Bog n Burn race of the year, dry underfoot, blue skies and a cool breeze, so not too boggy. 4 miles and 800' of ascent. Took it easy up the first climb then tried to push on along the narrow undulating track past the Whangie. Managed to overtake a few then held my place until we reached the ridge, felt good on the run down to the road. Steady jog along to the turn back onto the hill. Walked the first short steep section then ran from then on. Picked off a few jog n walkers on the way to the trig point. After the trig its mostly gentle grassy downhill until a short sharp drop back to the path and helter skelter with a couple more victims on the way back to the finish. Great wee local race with a built in 1 1/2 mile warm up and cool down to and from the parking area. Finished in just over 37 minutes, a few seconds faster than last year for the same route, and faster than previous best for the old route.

Pictures here and here.

Easy weekend

Short runs, two of them, the first Saturday afternoon, a steady jog round Stoneymollan, a nice breeze, clouds scudding around the blue sky, Luss Hills, Ben Lomond and beyond, all crying out for attention in the sun, stick to the plan, recovery from the past few hard weeks. Sunday an evening run through the three parks, Chrsitie, Argyll and Balloch, careful not to stand on sleeping ducks, as dusk falls.

Stuc A Chroin recce

This weeks long run was a recce of the race route. 14 miles and 5000' of ascent. From Strathyre the route starts and finishes with 2 miles on forest tracks with a few ups and downs in between. I had only run this as a race so today was a chance to take in the views. After the first couple of miles we left the track through the tunnel of trees onto the hill for a gradual climb over Meall Mor and a steep drop into Glen Ample, then an enjoyable climb up to take in the views from the summit of Beinn Each. Its two miles from BE to the top of the Stuc, the first mile good fun as the path twists and turns along an undulating ridge, the second a steady 1000' climb. We spent a few minutes on the top looking from Ben Vorlich which sits a mile or so behind the Stuc right across to the Firth of Forth on the East coast. A quick refuel in the shelter of the summit cairn and we set off for the return back along the ridge to Bealach nan Cabar, luckily the return route avoids Beinn Each and we drop down a tussocky gulley before the rough traverse along Glen Ample saving something for the climb out to Meall Mor. Good run back to the forest, mostly downhill, then the two mile jog to Strathyre. We finished in 4 hours 50 and hope to be somewhat quicker in a couple of weeks time.



Sunday was such a good morning just had to go for a recovery run over Carman, Overton and Bromley Muirs, 5 or 10 minutes slower than usual and walked the steep bits.

Arrochar Alps

Forecast was for more sun as the day went on, good day for a long slow run. The plan was to run from Succouth up Glen Loin to Coiregrogain, then Ben Vane, Beinn Ime and Narnain, and a descent down to Succouth, about 13 miles and 6000' of climbing.

We started with low cloud and mist down below 2000'. Took it easy through Glen Loin, walking the bigger hills. Arriving at the Ben Vane path just after Coiregrogain we moved quickly across the bog and onto the 2000 foot in a mile climb, pretty soon we were into the clouds. Steady trudge up and as we made our way through Vanes knobbly tops we broke through into sunshine and stunning views of mountain tops piercing the clouds. We took in the views for a few minutes then set off on a crag avoiding bearing into Lag Uaine and back into the mist. We came down under Beinn Chorranach, too far North, a short trot up the glen and we set off for what we hoped was Glas Bhealach. A few minor zig zags on the way up and then a break in the clouds confirmed we were just about on track. A short stop at GB then up the steep North flank of Beinn Ime in glorious sunshine. A brief stop at the top and we were off back down into the mist towards Bealach a'Mhaim. Tried to run a bearing but came down slightly to the right of the style. Soon picked up the path to Narnain and back into the sun, even managed a wee jog as the slope eased towards the top. We set off with a scramble through the Spearhead to start the run down the steep twisting path, kept a steady pace going all the way. Keeping to the left of the stream we managed to stay off the concrete blocks and made good time on the bottom section leading back on to the forrest track. Only a short run down to the car park left with a quick stop at the jacuzzi refreshing tired legs.

Finished in 4 hours 50, a quiet seat in the sun before the drive home our reward for a fine day. Only met one person on Ben Vane then hordes of walkers as we ran off Beinn Ime and over Narnain. Misty glens made us think a wee bit about navigation and brought us back down to earth after the stunning views from the tops.

Stoneymollan

18 runners set off on the handicap hill race, first off about 6:30 last after 7. A cool and clear evening, good for running. The first 1/2 mile is on the road then onto tracks and paths. Good running up the Stoneymollan then nice n boggy along Bromley and Overton Muirs. Reeled the runner ahead in at the top of the Stoney but he tucked in behind and would overtake me before the finish. Good run along to the fort catching three as I jumped the wall. I can hear runners coming up behind but hold them off until back on to the road when a couple pass me. Jog the last two wee hills then push downhill to finish in just over 43 minutes a couple of minutes slower than last year. Tea and cakes in the hall once everyone gets back.

Luss Hill Run

Saturday morning and we set off for a loop round the Luss Hills, the route would turn out depending how we felt. Into the climbing straight away up Beinn Dubh, no stopping at the top in the cool breeze. Along the ridge twisting round Coire na h-eanachan and Carlaig before the tussocky drop into Sith Mor. Second big climb up Doune Hill then more ridge running over Beinn Lochain and Eich and back down to the road a the top of Glen Luss. Here we crossed the Glen for the stiff climb up Coille-eughain Hill and back to the foot of the glen via the Paps, finished the 13 mile 6000' route in just over 4 1/2 hours.

Birnam Classic Hill Race

Big field of about 200 for the 1st of the SHR Championship counters, a short, 4 miles with 1700 feet of ascent. The race was the second of three in the Highland Boundary Race Series over the weekend. Sadly I could only manage this one. The race starts in the centre of Birnam beside the Beatrix Potter Garden.  For the first few hundred yards we ran jostling our way on a narrow road and winding track before the hill slowed us all down. Familiar jog wheeze walk up a steep zig zag path through trees before the slope eased and we had to run again. The top section best described as undulating up took us through a few false summits before cresting the Kings Seat and on to the descent which contoured round under Rohallion Castle. Gained a few places on each of the short steep sections then tried to keep them as the gradient eased. The race finishes with an undulating flat mile where I lost two or three of my hard fought places, managed to keep it going to finish in about 44 minutes. Post race reverie with soup, rolls, tea and biscuits in the Birnam Institute.

Ardgarten Loop

Hopeful looks revealed snowbound Luss peaks so it was back to the Arrochar trails on Sat morning. We decided on the 20 mile Ardgarten Loop, clockwise of course.

A couple of miles on the road to start then forest tracks for the next 5 as the trail winds its way up to the Dukes Pass Trail over to Lochgoil side. We stopped for a couple of minutes to watch a large Stag peering at us from round a corner before it ambled off down into the woods. Kept a steady pace going to the Lochan then ran over the cycle track and down into the forest on Lochgoil side.

Back onto the road for a mile or two from Lochgoilhead before the long climb on forest tracks to the top of the Rest and Be Thankful. The run back to Ardgarten down Gleann Mor has a couple of good ups as well just to keep you working all the way to the end. Finished in a minute under 4 hours, perfect day for running, cool and sunny, only a small shower in the last couple of miles.

Snowy Glen Loin

Snow return kept me off the hills this week, drove up to Arrochar for a 16 mile/3000 FOA run on the forest trails. Left Succouth in driving sleet and joined the track above the car park and ran towards Ardgarten, took the low track which comes out beside the Visitor Centre, ran  up the road for a mile before returning towards Succouth via the higher track. Into the teeth of the wind and a bit unpleasant for a mile or so until the track starts to wind its way up the side of Glen Loin, trees offering respite. As I climb the sleet turns to snow and makes for good running, working hard, 4 inches deep by the top of the Glen. Snow covered rocks make for an easy crossing of the stream and off down the undulating track to Corriegrogan. Back into the wind now, head down and plod it out with my own snowy peak. Meet my first people of the day on the way down the glen, a few groups of walkers. Tired now on the run into the lower glen, the extra work in the snow taking its toll, stop and stretch a couple of times which releases the legs and keeps me running. Jog back into a cold windswept sleety car park in about 3 hours 25. A few blurry snowy pictures here.

A Team Challenge and Bishop Hill

Saturday and the first team race of the Millies Grand Prix, didn't run instead helped and harassed the runners as they worked their way round the 12 miles from Balloch to Cardross and back to the Vale Leisure Centre via the trig point overlooking Bromley Muir, route included 2000' of ascent and three team challenges, a few pictures here. Hopefully the runners had as much fun as we did. At night we all got together again for the clubs AGM and a wee social after. A good day.

Sunday and 2 of us went along to the Bishop Hill race, a short one at 2 1/2 miles with 1000' of ascent, a bit of a lung buster, if you have time to catch your breath you are not trying. Undulating woody start where they send you through a ditch to join a narrow path winding up and around Bishop Hill, mostly runnable only the first and last parts of the climb reduced me to a walk. Fresh breeze when we got above the tree line, several gliders from the local airfield wheeling overhead as we pant and pech uphill.

Gradually force a jog between the two summits at the top then plummet off the edge thankful as gravity takes over, a couple of good grassy descents with a few jumps if you like that sort of thing then the trail levels off for a couple of hundred yards before rejoining the outward path for a couple of minutes of good fast downhill running. A steep descent back into the woods and a sprackle through the ditch to finish in just over 27 minutes.

Soup, rolls n tea in the village hall while you catch your breath. Photos here.

Weekend races

Saturday, to kick start the season, the Carnethy 5. Arrived at Beeslack school without any detours. Registered, changed and off we went. The guy who thought up the race and has run them all wearing No 41.

Wet underfoot with blue sky overhead and a cool breeze. At 2 pm 500 runners set off across a boggy bog, the field soon spread out on the 1st climb up Scald Law, around 22 minutes of puff pant wheeze for me to reach this first top, brief respite to re-oxygenate on the run along to South Black Hill then two sharp intakes of breath that make up the Kips. Steady descent and run along to the Howe before the struggle that is the gulley on Carnethy's western side, the slope eases for a jog then one last push to the top. Round the trig point and downhill all the way, through heather, scree and don't forget the bog to finished 307th in 82 minutes. Lots of pictures.

Sunday, the clubs rescheduled Cross Country, 2 laps round Polaroid Industrial Estate, cloudy and wet although similar underfoot to yesterday. Good field of 13 runners and a few helpers made the effort on this cold and sodden morning. Jogged to the start to help get everything moving again. Felt my way round the first lap looking for the best way round the puddles, usually straight through. Our small group of five runners broke up, one away in front, one off the back and we were down to three by the end of the lap.

Lap 2, slower run along the side of the Leven then back to a steady pace after climbing the steps. Round the pond, eased up the short climb closing in on the runner in front, tucked in until we turned down the road towards the finish where a few short bursts of pace took me clear over the last couple of hundred yards, 4th in 36:18.

Luss Horseshoe, Sat 5th

Return to Glen Luss for another medium horseshoe, same 12 miles and 5000' feet of ascent but the reverse from a couple of weeks ago, Beinn Eich, Beinn Lochain, Doune Hill, Sith Mor, Beinn Dubh, Creag an t-Seilich. Start and finish at the bottom of Glen Luss.

Set off just after one and an easy run up the glen before plodding up Beinn Eich from Edentaggart farm, the ground now thawed out so cool toes again. Stopped to put my jacket on towards the top just as the weather closed in and a snowy squall appeared from the North West, luckily only a short burst and it cleared up as I reached the top.

Not stopping in the chill wind I ran over Beinn Lochain keeping to the highest and hopefully driest ground. Slowed going up Doune Hill's steep sides and ran past the trig point down into shelter of the gullies behind. Stopped for a break and to plan the route into Sith Mor.

Picked out a narrow ridge that snakes its way into the glen alongside a small stream, crossed to the North side of the stream to avoid rougher ground then further North to avoid a large flooded area where the stream was joined by a spring bubbling from under a rock. You could see pools of water lying on grassy terraces all the way to the valley floor.

Another pause towards the bottom to pick out a line up the other side, the climb went well avoiding the steepest parts, but not for the first time I found myself pushed off line by the dreaded peat hags probably adding a couple of hundred yards to the climb.

Reached the small cairns in a couple of minutes over three hours, followed the path as it meanders down and round the corries and more peat hags before the short steady climb to Beinn Dubh. Easy run down to the bottom of the glen to finish around 3 hours 45.

Quiet afternoon on the hill, only met two walkers and that was 100 yards from the finish.

Whinney Hill

Late home on Friday and instead of a rest for Sundays race went for a run round the Stoneymollan, at least it was the short version, took it easy and my headtorch for a dark descent. Sunday, Whinney Hill race, cool and dry made for good running. 16 runners, all doing the full route. Pictures here. Set off in 5th position, Number 4 gradually drifting away ahead, no one else near me so it turned into a bit of a time trial. Plenty of energy for the run back from the seat just nothing to drive me on a bit faster. Finished just under 43 mins. Pennance was found on Monday via 4 Stoneymollans, first two in 14:50, second two in 14:20.

Luss Horseshoe

Last weeks circuit of the Vale Hills and a good forecast supplied the motivation to get back out for a tougher hill run, the first for a couple of months. Run taking in order Creag an t-Seilich, Beinn Dubh, Sith Mor, Doune Hill, Beinn Lochain and Beinn Eich, about 12 miles and close on 5000' of ascent. Start and finish at the bottom of Glen Luss.

Set off about 8:30 on a frozen misty morning, within 10 minutes came out the mist, the views to Conic peaking out above the clouds and a lovely sunrise made for a good start.

Frozen ground great for running over, skimmed over the boggy bits instead of the usual tussocky detours, feet staying on top and dry and warm. Too warm in the sun with triple thermal top, so off with jacket/gloves until after Creag an t-Seilich where the wind chill kicked in. Steady plod to reach the top in about 50 mins,

Easy run round the corries then picked my way through the peat hags on the drop into Sith Mor. Jacket and gloves off in the sun for the climb up Doune Hill, soon back on towards the top as the wind kicked in again.
Stopped for a few pictures here before a steady run along the ridge to Bein Eich, straight over and down to Edentaggart Farm at the top of Glen Luss. Pleasant run down the road to finish a few minutes under 4 hours. More pictures here.
 
Superb views all morning to Ben Lomond, Arrochar Alps and snow capped mountains as far as you could see. Unusual view down the Clyde Estuary trying to pick out the different hills poking through the low cloud.

Easy ground to run on, hard frost in the Glens, then slightly softer as you climbed up with a harder frost on the tops. Ran in trail shoes as they keep your feet a bit warmer. Ok for grip at todays relaxed pace with no really steep sections but the heel is much thicker than fell shoes which made for unstable foot placement on the rough ground.

Time Trial

Club time trial, 4.3 mile road run, starting at Christie Park along Middleton St, down to Bonhill Bridge, through Jamestown, Lomond Road, Luss Road through Christie Park and along Middleton St again looping back to the Leisure centre via Upper Bridge St.

This has been run off n on since 2003, once a month usually from Sept to April, races taking precedence the rest of the time. Performance varied, you would maybe have the opportunity to run one or two fast each year the rest would be brisk or tempo type training runs.

Over the last few years the TT became an occaisonal run. It was ressurected at the end of last year and the Dec outing was to be the first race of the clubs 25th Anniversary GP Series. Snow and ice in Dec made it less than safe and it was rescheduled for last night.

 As I hadn't been under 30 mins since Sept 06 that was my target, ended up reasonably close 30 mins 10 seconds equal to my fastest time since March 07.

PWWHSM

Forecast was wet n windy and it was, a circuit of the hills surrounding the Vale 18 miles and 3100' of ascent, and for this we got Pappert Well, Whinney Hill and Stoneymollan.

4 of us left the leisure centre just after 8 on Saturday morning, jogged down over the Bonhill Bridge and into Pappert crossed the bridge for the track on the far side of the burn. The bottom section has been smartened up, not nice, no doubt some trail runners idea of improvements. Thankfuly the top half of the track rougher and muddier. Steady plod took us to the trig point in 45 minutes. No hanging around here exposed to the wind and rain.

Followed the trail past the Well and down through the forrest to the style where we went right across fields and the golf course, found a few stray balls. Came out on Auchencarroch road then a short section of track before more road until we got on to the upper Whinney Hill track from Boturich road. Good run up through the woods for a short break at the seat, no views today. Ran through Balloch Park on the way back towards Stoneymollan.

Last hurrah up the Stoney. Walked to the first gate then a steady jog to the top. Ran along the moor walking the short steep sections before the short slippy descent to pick up the Radio Mast track. Some joinery work required on the style.

Finished in 4 hours, a quick refreshment then home tired.

hcoreppiK

Ran backwards on Sunday, reversed the usual route past Dalmoak via Renton onto the Kipperoch, through Cardross Golf Course, up Darlieth Rd, past the Black Third, down the Stoneymollan and home, 13 miles and 1300' of ascent.

For a change we started towards Balloch and over a Snowymollan. Steady trudge then a careful run down Darlieth road, on the way through Cardross golf course we took a short detour to see the Grade 'A' listed building that was Kilmahew college. A recent TV programme showed the building as it was and how it is now, the Architect was in tears. What was a superb estate has gone to ruin over the last 30 years. There is loads of then and now media on the internet so give it a Google if you're interested.

We ran on through the estate tracks back to Carman and down to Cardross where we joined the Kipperoch track, a bit icy in places for the run to Dalmoak. Finished off with a steady jog along the last couple of miles from Dalmoak back to the club. 2 hours 53 including the detour.

Stoneymollan

Gentle introduction to the year and a nice easy run over Stoneymollan, ground still frozen but most of the snow and ice is gone. Its a good surface to run on with the bonus that your feet stay dry and warm. Great views all round with the snow creased face of the Ben reflected in an almost flat calm Loch Lomond.

Ardgarten Loop

Three of us set out for the 20 miles and 4000' plus of ascent in cool drizzle. A fun time was had by all as the frozen ground meant rain and melt water froze into a smooth invisible icy film for much of the way.

Within one minute I was breathless as I fell winded on the edge of the road trying to tiptoe round the ice. No evidence of serious damage and I got up and from then on ran tentatively wary of ice. The run along to the lochan took some 1 1/2 hours as I shuffled along, mostly on the verge or in the ditch to avoid the ice. Conditions improved as the track climbed a few hundred feet in the last couple of miles ice turning to snow.

Good run across the top on a snowy cycle path until the descent back towards the Loch Goil track, more ice. The track through Lochgoilhead and on up to the top of the Rest and Be Thankful icy in patches thankfully turned to snow nearer the top.

The last 3 or 4 miles down to Ardgarten snow at first then back into the ice. All in a tougher than usual run finishing in about 4 hours 50 instead of the usual sub 4 run.

Christmas runs

Chrsitmas eve and with my few chores out the way went for a run over the snowy Stoneymollan. 2 inches of powder and clear blus sky made for perfect running, covered the 6 or 7 miles and 1000' of ascent in 85 minutes. Millie Boxing day run and back up the Stoney followed by Whinney Hill. The snow has gone through a thaw freeze cycle by now so a crunchy run had by all. Sky overcast and a cool breeze on the open hillside. A few stop starts for the bunch to regroup but the snow underfoot gave us a tough workout. 14 miles and 2000' in 3 hours 53. A few pictures here.

Whinney Hill

Sunday run through the local parks to Whinney Hill and back, 9 miles and 1000' of ascent. Not too tiring but enough at this time of year to keep things ticking over.

Snow covered ice on a lot of the paths and I stayed off them as much as possible, fingertips to the ground twice to save a sprackle in the snow, once on the climb out of Balloch Park the second the steep climb into the woods going towards Whinney Hill.

A day for easy running and taking in the views, finished in 1 hour 40, a few pictures here.

Ardarden for the birds

A late Sunday run was just what I needeed after a night playing santa.  So 12 o'clock at the Vale Leisure Centre it was and 5 of us set out for a loop through Renton, over Kipperoch through Cardross to Ardarden where a couple of the guys wanted to sort out their christmas dinner. Then up and over Stoneymollan and back to the Leisure Centre, 13 miles and 1200' of ascent.

Run through Renton slow on icy pavements, better running on the Kipperoch and along to Ardarden. Good steady climb up the Red Road past the Black Third for the obligatory pictue at the top of Stoneymollan.

Jogged down and crossed the bypass to rejoin the compact icy snow. Walked towards MacDonalds where my elbow attacked the ground to much concern from my companions, decided I wouldn't cry, returned the compliments and we jogged back to finish in 2 hours 50 minutes.

New Shoes, Sat Dec 11th

My New Balance road shoes have done about 900 miles and lower limb complaints inc had recruited hips strain ltd and the lower back distress co for a campaign to stop me moving let alone running. A search of all the online running outlets I could find and a tour of Glasgow's running shops had failed. Set off for Glasgow again and stopped at JJB in the Great Western Retail Park without much hope. No road shoes to suit but tried on a pair of Asics Enduro trail shoes, comfy. Arrived home and went straight out for a run along to Duck Bay 5 miles in 55 minutes, pain free.

Snowymollan

Superb winter conditions but not if you are a runner. Difficult to find suitable runs so I revert to the old favourite the Stoneymollan. Last Friday route from the house over Stoneymollan to my mums in Cardross then back. Today, ran up behind Carman reservoir then through the quarry and along the hillside to the top of the Stoneymollan.

On Friday set off about two pm up through Christie Park and along the bypass verge, bad choice, two feet of snow piled up from the road, trudge trudge. The run up the Stoney was good plenty of wakers had left a narrow trod over the top and about half way across. The path splits here and without the volume of walkers no track to follow and high knee lifts required to make progress through deep snow to the other side of the moor, wind chill kicked in as I left the shelter of the trees, not sure if I fancy this on the way back. Ran down the Darlieth ok if a bit icy.

Just under 1 hour 17 to mums for coffee and cakes while my running gear dried off.

Left just after four for the run back over. Good steady running up the Darlieth past the Black Third Farm,  luckily the wind had dropped for the high knee lift walk back over the moor. Ran down the Stoney in the dark, avoided the snowy bypass and ran back along the main road to home. About a minute slower coming back, 13 miles and 1700' of ascent. A few pictures here .

Today's run in glorious winter sunshine, 7 miles and about 1100' of ascent. I wanted to get to the trig point before sunset and set off about half two, plenty of time. Ran along past the Carman on the roads and onto the track leading behind Carman Reservoir, a few walkers had been before me so ok for running but hard work on any up hill. Ran on the road to the quarry, the track through the quarry hard packed and smooth good to run on as well. All changed half way up the hill, only a few had been through so walked out the back and onto the moor.

I could pick up the trail leading to the trig point as the snow was slightly smoother but hard work with the snow from varying from knee to thigh deep only the odd bit where the frozen crust would support my weight, perhaps I should buy a pair of these. Trudged across the moor and up towards the trig point just getting there a few minutes before sunset. Great views over the Clyde and Loch Lomond. Took a few pictures and tried to wait until the sun set behind the Arran peaks but too cold and set off for the run down to the top of the Stoneymollan with windproof jacket and ski gloves on.

I have been here in deep snow before and although I expected a hard run I would have turned back if it wasn't for one the set of visible footprints I could follow. Any time I strayed from them it was a fall into deep soft snow, very tiring. Easy to see how you could get into trouble. With a second frozen crust cutting into your ankles with each step it was impossible to run so slow trudge along to the top of the Stoney. Run down the Stoney ok but not as easy as Friday. Arrived home in about 2 hours 15 mins, about an hour slower than usual. Stunning views, a few pictures here.

Local Run

Today's snowy run Kipperoch, Cardross, Stoneymollan, 13 miles and 1300' of ascent.

Lovely sunny morning with an inch or two of snow and we opted for a local run though Alexandria and Renton to Dalmoak, onto the Kipperoch farm track to Cardross. Turned up the Carman road then through the grounds of the old Priest College and the track which bisects the Golf course. Returned to the Vale via the Darlieth road, past the Black Third Farm and over the Stoneymollan. Finished just under 2 hours 40. Below are a couple of pictures from the Stoneymollan, looking to Ben Lomond and Conic.

Ben Bowie and Kiloeter

Fancied a local run today but the hills either side of the Vale usually produce short runs or contrived routes. Chose a mix of Carman and Stoneymollan extended to take in the next two hills, Kiloeter and Ben Bowie, about 13 miles and 2500' of ascent.

Made my way along a usual route to the Carman on farm roads and fields then onto the path which goes behind Carman Reservoir, kept off the road only crossing it to go through the old quarry and out onto the hill following the tracks to the trig point.

Took a wee diverison here, to the left of the forest down towards the Sheperds pool behind Black Third Farm, initially on narrow sheep trods then some waist deep rush and freezing bog. Got back onto the track behind BT Farm going towards Cardross, a short downhill road section to the junction between Darlieth and the Red road and I turned right through a break in the forest up the steep side of Kiloeter, once on the ridge great views over Helensburgh and to Arran.

Turned uphill and ran on quad bike tracks following the forest edge to the top. Continued on the tracks to Ben Bowie through a wet valley, cold toes again. A break for a few pictures then turned for Kiloeter luckily finding drier bits back through the valley.

Back on Kiloeter you climb a fence at the corner of the fir trees and follow an old fence line, feet finding the wire. A few yards in you turn right past a couple of trees and a bit of fun as you plunge down a fire break on an overgrown path. At the bottom they have felled a few rows of fir trees and left them lying across the fire break, tried to walk round but in the end had to climb, came out the other side a couple of falls later to a short section of forest curiously marked with red and white tape taking you onto a narrow path and then the forest road back to the top of the Stoneymollan.

Ran back up to the trig point then along past the Jesus rocks overlooking the Carman Reservoir dropping downhill to pick up the track that takes you back towards the radiomast and down past Milburn Farm. Last few minutes on the road past Overton Cemetry to finish in 3 hours 40.

Enjoyed a tougher than expected run, lost time behind Sheperds picking the best line through the rushes and more time climbing trees coming off Kiloeter. A few pictures here.

Balloch Park Cross Country

Perfect conditions with the sun filtering through the trees before the off. The first of the clubs own cross countries, three laps round Balloch Park. Good mixture of soft and firm ground with a mandatory muddy chute thrown in for fun. 19 runners and plenty of supporters giving encouragement round the undulating course. Set off keen for a steady start and just about managed it, at the end of the first lap I was lying sixth, a slower second lap and nearly overtaken but with a slight gain on the runner in front. Lost a place on the downhill, tucked in behind and was dragged along to the guy in front passing him just before the muddy chute. Took it steady on the up from the chute holding my place until near the top of the last hill, pushed on near the top then eased back along towards the finish at Balloch Castle, the runner behind nearly caught me and I had to kick a bit early which discouraged him enough to give me a few seconds cushion going into the last hundred yards, relaxed then pushed again over the last 50 yards. Good competition on each lap helped me finish under 36 minutes for the first time in 11 attempts.

Night run

A short run up the Stoneymollan, started off in the light, a bit darker when I reached the trig point, but no need for a torch on the moonlit hillside away from the urban light pollution below. Stopped to take a few pictures on the way round. The run down from the Jesus rocks slow as it was difficult to see your footing in places where the ferns bordered the narrow path.

Cobbler run

Drove to Arrochar past a glassy Loch Lomond, glorious autumnal reflections across to a misty Ben. Damp start up the twisting path, rushing streams the only sound louder than my breathing. Cross the stream just after the Narnain Boulders and take a faint path that leads me to the Cobblers rocky heart through a jumbled maze of rock and stream. A place of happy memories from youthful bouldering expeditions. The top is shrouded in mist, no views today only ghostly appearances by the Cobblers cliffs and peaks. Too soon I reach the summit ridge, cold here with ice forming in the puddles, no eye of the needle today. A brief stop to refuel and choose a route off. Descend by the NW ridge path mindful of the slippy man made steps. Easy run back through the glen on the now busy track beside a lively Allt a' Bhalachain.

9 miles, 4000 feet of ascent, 2 1/2 hours.

Stoneymollan

A nice wee Sunday morning run, cold and misty when I ran through the fields to the Carman, along to the giant steps then up the track behind Carman reservoir. Stay off the road by running along an old track that takes me to cross the road at the quarry. Run through the quarry and out onto the hill popping up on top of the clouds.

Ran along the ridge to the top of the Stoneymollan and back down into the mist. Jogged along the bypass and home via Christie Park.

Luss Hills

Saturday morning run over the Luss hills, start with Beinn Dubh then see what happens. Took it nice and slow and reached the cairn in 53 minutes, stopped for a couple of pictures, snow across the loch on the summit dome of Ben Lomond and also catching the top of Beinn Eich.

Cold feet again as the near freezing water flushed in and out with each step on the run along to the un named top before Mid Hill. Superb views to the North with clear skies beyond snow capped peaks. The Brack and Donich I climbed last week and the Arrochar Alps all capped with snow. Ran down Mid Hill back to Glen Luss where a weak heart was overuled by a chilled brain and instead of climbing up the South side of the Glen I jogged back down the Glen to finish the 7 miles and 2500' of ascent in just under two hours.

The Brack and Ben Donich

Took advantage of the good forecast for Saturday and set off just after 8 for a run over the two mountains on the opposite side of Glen Croe from the Cobbler. Having run round them on the forest trails I thought it would be nice to run over them.

Planned route was 12 miles with 4500' of ascent. Starting from the Ardgarten visitor centre down the track beside loch Long, up the Coilessan Glen track to the highest point, up and over the Brack then up and down Ben Donich to finish back at Ardgarten.

The first couple of miles of tarmac road undulate uphill for 400 feet or so. Onto forest roads and soon the sign for Coilessan Glen appears, the track steepens up a bit climbing 1300 feet in two miles. Runnable apart from 10 mins of steep manmade path from where the road ends.

The path over the moor to Lochgoilhead is marked by white posts, I had been here once before in Feb 2001, a few Jooster fuelled Millies climbed up and over the moor from Lochgoilhead.

Running up Coilessan Glen I could see the ridge to the Brack summit with lots of small stick figures keeping watch from the horizon. The ridge is just over a mile long with 1000' of climbing, a few tracks and trods but no definite routes. Climbed just off the ridge line to save some of the continual up and down. Soon realised that the stick figures were a large and noisy herd of deer. I got quite close to some of them as I meandered round the lumps and bumps that make up this ridge.

Great views all round from the Brack summit, Ailsa Craig and Jura easily visible to the eye but sadly not my phone cameras lens. After a short stop I picked my way down the steep grassy bank that is the Brack's North ridge, only a few small crags to negotiate. Crossed the beallach towards Donich's east ridge and took a line south of the first hump before aiming for the crest of the ridge. No real paths here either, just deer and sheep tracks.

Closing in on Donich's summit I met people for the first time today, one of the local walking clubs. With a few Millies taking part there was no surprises that the group had split up! A short refuel on Donich's summit taking in the views before dropping back down the East ridge, this time on the North side, turning towards the white posts that mark the path back through the forest and the forest road back to Ardgarten.

Finished in just under 4 1/2 hours, nice run on quiet hills, tough underfoot with few real paths, easy route finding along the ridges but a bit of time required to work out the best lines to take. A few pictures here .

Ben Venue

Full course this year after the wind curtailed 2009 premiere of the race. The start and finish is from the access road to the Loch Katrine sluices. The first and last miles on forest tracks through Gleann Riabhach, the middle section off road up and over Ben venue then Creag a' Bhealaich.

About 90 or so runners including 4 Millies, set off in pouring rain on an undulating run across Achray water and into the Forest. It wasn't looking good for the climb up Ben Venue then shortly before we hit the hill the rain stopped.

Followed the crocodile up the hill and managed to lose only a couple of places. From the first top a rocky path takes you across a few minor ups and downs to Creag a' Bhealaich, a short climb and you pick up a narrow track that switches over to the north side of the hill, then a sharp left on a faint path over the hill to start the steep slippery descent back towards the forest.

Just before the forest you pick up a rough roller coaster path with a few streams to jump. The run through the forest starts on the forest road you crossed on the ascent, at the same place you turn back into the forest for a run back to the finish where you have to suffer the last couple of hundred yards on the road before you get to sample the sandwiches and cakes laid on by the host club.

A new race with a variety of terrain, probably too much forest track for the purists and more running than usual which meant I got past two or three I usually struggle to match. Only the climb up Ben Venue and a short section over Creag a' Bhealaich where I had to walk.

Link to course map here.

Splits;
18 mins to CP1 exit from the forest.
34 mins climb to CP2 the top of Ben Venue.
26 mins ridge run to CP3 Creag a' Bhealaich.
17 mins descent to CP4 re-enter the forest.
10 mins to the finish.

Finished just over 1 hour 45 for the 7 1/2 miles and 3000' of ascent. A few good runners out and as next year it is an SHR champs race we will see if todays 70 minute winning time is beaten.

Mamores Sat 25th Sept

Another weekend away in Glen Nevis campsite and with the forecast as good as its been for a while I hoped to be able to get in a few hills. Planned route was to start from the lower falls car park at Achriabach and ascend Mullach Nan Coirean via its North Eastern ridge, follow the ridge line to Stob Ban returning via the Devil's Ridge to Sgurr a' Mhaim and descending Sgurr a' Mhaims North Western ridge back to the car park, about 12km and 1600m of ascent or 8 miles and 5300'.

Set off up the forest track and straight away hit a diversion due to forestry commission work, neat wee signs and maps saying go up the glen, ok until I reached the end of the road then it was a muddy path beside the burn. Not the way I planned and when I had to cross a small stream, checked the map and the stream appeared to lead up through the trees and from there it would be a short walk to the ridge.

The climb did take me up onto the top of the ridge, an enjoyable 1500' in three quarters of a mile through conifer, birch wood then a bit of heather bashing. Along the ridge I followed a small path beside a deer fence. Luckily they had knocked a bit of the fence down due to the forestry diversions and I could cross over without climbing. The ridge is described as runnable, just about until the last few hundred feet which was a bit too steep for me to run, pretty rough as well, over rock and scree.

Mullach Nan Coirean is flat topped with two cairns, visited both just in case. By this time views all round Lochaber and beyond, the Ben the only top with any cloud and that would soon disappear. Stopped for some food and to check out the rest of the route.

Leaving the Mullach I ran along faint paths that follow the ridge over a few minor unamed tops towards the steep bouldery climb up to Stob Ban's summit. Sat and re-fuelled here, looking over the other side of Stob Ban, with it's huge cliffs bitten out of the dome shaped peak.

The run off Stob Ban is down a steep rocky path then along the ridge towards ex munro Sgorr an Lubhair, just before you start to climb the path splits, take the left fork down past a small lochan and then up a zig zag path to join the Devil's Ridge.  Despite its name no real problems in good weather, there is about 20 yards where you are aware the path is a touch narrow but as you approach the lowest point follow the path left off the top of the ridge for an easy walk through. From there its a short trudge to the top of Sgurr a' Mhaim and another refuelling stop.

Sgurr a' Mhaim sits at the top of Glen Nevis, with its scree covered quartzite cap a pleasure to run down. The path zig zags almost to the bottom of the glen but once clear of the scree cap it gets progressively more difficult to run on, first rockier and then muddier towards the bottom. Once through a deer fence the gradient eases and its a short run back to the car park. Finished in just over 4 1/2 hours, link to some pictures here, however they don't do justice to the views.

Wreckless Merrick

Friday night and home from home at Stereo in Renfield Lane for another dose of Eric and Amy. A longtime favourite of ours. Eric is getting on a bit, now a grandad. They were on good form and about 80 people enjoyed a 2 hour set, some good banter with plenty of songs mixed in. A few of his original tunes, some of Amy's and the rest either from their last album or latest album of covers. An odd mix, Eric one of the original Stiff record label performers and Amy an American Country and Western singer. Plenty of examples on YouTube even a few from Friday night.

Sunday another favourite, Merrick Hill Race. For those who can read maps, here's a link to a map of the route. Eight ands a half miles with 3300 feet of ascent. The undulating route takes in five hills and a couple of ridges.

The field of 34 set off at one, jump a stream and run for about 30 yards then drop into walk mode up the first climb of the day. The pattern repeats itself over the first four and a half miles as the route winds up to Merrick.

The route was flagged for the first and last few miles but none in the middle from the climb into the mist on Ben Yellary until you came back out the mist descending the Rig of the Gloon. However for those unfamiliar with the route there was plenty of Raynet marshalls at strategic points to help out if neccessary.

The traverse to pick up the ridge to Buchan Hill tussocky as usual and managed to pass two runners. I'd been tracking them for a while after they passed me on the second climb of the day, this gave me a bit of a lift and the extra energy to push on and soon put a good distance between us along the ridge.

An occaisonal glance up and I could see the next two runners further along the ridge. At the end its brakes off for the run down Buchan Hill, near the bottom was rather churned up, someone must have let the cows out.  Got to within a few yards of the runner in front by jumping the fence at the bottom and just managed to avoid a collision with the photographer but then lost out by about thirty seconds on the short but steep uphill run to the finish.

Race time 2 hours 13 mins finishing 21st. A grand day out for this low key race over typical Galloway hill country, a bit rough but with plenty of runnable bits.

Whinney Hill

Woke up to a sunny Sunday morning and with committments looming for the rest of the day chose a local out and back run keeping off road as much as possible. Through Christie, Argyle and Balloch Parks then out onto the Whinney Hill trail and back again, all in 9 or 10 miles and 1100' of ascent.

Good to see three of the Argyle football parks in use on the way. Steady pace into Balloch Park and up the Fairy Glen where I met a freshly summersaulted mountain biker in my way just where I wanted to leave the path, stopped for a minute to check he was ok, no helmet so lucky, we had a laugh and then I took off towards the WH trail. A few walkers out and about as well. Ran all the hills but kept it nice n easy.

The seat was already occupied when I got there and just kept going. Tried to keep the same relaxed effort on the easier run back, fine until the last mile or so, back on the tarmac just by coincidence. Finished in about 90 mins, 45 out and 44 back.

Ben Nevis

Super weather for this years jaunt up the Ben. I was lucky enough to get one of the 600 entries, two hundred or so were disappointed in the February draw. Arrived in Glen Nevis campsite on Friday evening, no welly camp this year, dry underfoot, sunny and you could see the Ben.

Registered on Saturday morning then went back to the campsite for an early lunch. The race started a couple of minutes before one, a steady jog round the football pitch and onto the road to Achintee, reached the end of the road in good time, about 9 minutes, with no major effort.

The tourist path rises along Melantee from here, ignored the early shortcuts and took the one at Eddies bench which seemed to go well picking up 50 or so yards on those in front. Least favourite part round windy corner followed, a few went past but no stress, reached the Red Burn feeling ok in 54 mins, within a minute of my target time. Ok means fine as usually dizzy by now!

From the Red Burn its straight up, initially on grass, then scree and rocks, began to slow down and a few small people trains went past. Stopped for a drink and some sugar to try to recharge the batteries. Reached the top in 1 hour 50 mins which meant 9 minutes lost from the Red Burn.

Turned for the descent, and jogged along, another drink then gloves on. Wandered down through McLeans Steep and the Field of Cairns, hard to find the drive required to pick up the pace and get past the runners in front after what was a difficult up and the traffic jam of runners and walkers.

As the descent got steeper started to relax and enjoy the race, found a forgiving scree filled track further left from the Red Burn than most others which meant the brakes could be switched off for a while.

At half way you hit the Grassy bank, usually a few times. Kept relaxed and tried to stay on my feet as much as possible and maintain a steady pace. At the bottom a welcome cool blast of water in the burn then back onto the tourist track, take care on the blocky gritty man made steps back round windy corner but gradually picked off a few runners, a few courtesy stops for walkers as well.

Two short cuts on the way back, the second longer section well worth it when its drier underfoot. Back on the busy tourist track again, thankfully most walkers and runners are like minded folk who make way for each other, a few don't.

Onto the road and a steady jog back for a 54 minute descent and finish at Claggan Park in 2 hours 44 minutes, 362nd out of 481. Good to meet Ian, Rich, Elaine and Catriona at the end, although I have still to see the pictures.

Stoneymollan Sun 29th

Nice easy off road afternoon trot round the hills behind us. Ran through the fields to cross Carman, up the steps and track to the back of Carman reservoir, through the quarry and over the two small tops before the run down to the Stoney. Followed the path down then jogged along the bypass & through Christie Park to finish in 78 mins.

Ben Vorlich Sat 21st

Went to Arrochar with Ian and Jimmy and settled on an out and back run up Vorlich, 13 miles and 4500' of ascent . Forecast mixed, sunny spells with cloud, rain and a bit windy.

Set out from Succouth just after half 8 up the Glen Loin path, walked the hills to save some energy for the climb up Vorlichs steep flank. Left the road at the cairn taking the walkers path, ok at this time of year but can be somewhat mushy.

The path does its best to take the sting out of the climb and once your on the ridge its more runnable as the path winds through gullies and crags to the triple summit. We arrived at the highest summit and a seat out of the wind, a short break for a drink and some food and then ran along to the trig point before we go too cold, the trig point is the second highest top some 2 metres lower, we stopped to capture some photographic evidence of our visit.

Ran back along the ridge until we were level with the dam and then took the less used straight down path, steep, but ok with a bit of care and only fall when there is no rocks below you. Three falls and a couple of bum slides later and we were down. A run across the dam to pick up the road through the tunnel and the undulating run back through Glen Loin.

Lucky with the weather or just a good route choice as we escaped the low cloud that seemed to linger on the other Arrochar tops. Finished in 4 hours 15 and managed to avoid the speed trap going into Tarbet on the way home.

Leven 5k

A good turnout of 19 runners for the 2nd running of the club 5k race. The start is on Old Luss Road at the rear entrance to Cameron House, run a short way on the road before turning left to go down through Lomond Shores and on to the path along to Balloch beside the river Leven where it joins the cycle path to the finish just after the Vale Academy.

Late home so missed my start time and set off with the faster runners, no overtaking for me. Managed to avoid the usual too fast start and then concentrated  on staying relaxed. Finished just under 22 mins about 30 secs slower than last year.

Ben Nevis Sat 14th Aug

Didn't fancy the stress of racing the Lomonds of Fife on Sunday so took the opportunity to take Andrew up the Ben.  Drove up early Sat and set off up Heart Attack Hill from the youth hostel with a rucksack full of food, clothes and water.

Forecast was to clear in the afternoon but we went into the cloud from 2500'. Very busy, stuck to the tourist route rather than the more direct race route and windy corner still the toughest part. Refreshing drink from the Red Burn at half way then followed the zig zags into the clouds.

Thankfully the gradient eases towards the top and we summited in 2 1/2 hours. Although still in the clouds you could feel the heat from the sun and 200 plus people were sitting about enjoying a rest, some food and a few photos taken.

Set off after an hour or so, feet suffering a bit in the splintered rock. Only needed a couple of short stops on the way down reaching the river Nevis in 1 1/2 hours and stood in the cool water for a few minutes to refresh tired feet.

Ben Rinnes Sat 31st July

Went up to Lossie a day early so that I could run the Ben Rinnes 5 Tops Hill Race again, 14 miles and 5000' of ascent, an out and back to Ben Rinnes taking in the tops of Little Conval and Meikle Conval, some more race info here.

The race starts and finishes with a lap round the field typical of Highland games hill races. 60 or so runners took part. The first mile or two is on farm tracks and over a golf course before the gradient increases onto the hillside. No real drive in my legs and just kept it steady over the first two hills reaching the road crossing in 61 mins. Stopped for a drink and some jelly babies before a reasonable run up Ben Rinnes, slowed towards the top where we were greeted by a squally shower.

Climbed through the summit Tor and set off back towards the road, a bit of a struggle rather than the usual downhill wheeee. Another drink and some sweets before the steep climb up Meile Conval, had to stop every 10 yards or so, made it to the flag but being passed by several others and stopped to try and refuel. Painful plod but gradually imporved and over the top of MC managed to claw a couple of places back.

The climb up Little Conval thankfully short and managed a reasonable pace for the 2 or 3 mile run down to finish in 3 hours 22 not quite a PW but felt like it. Had a lie down at the side of the games field to contemplate and recover before the traditional cold shower. Only the fast runners get a hot shower. Race winner, Joe Symmonds, finished in 1 hr 54 breaking his brothers record from last year by a couple of minutes. They come from hill racing stock, read the book.