Luss Lomond

Double run today, Luss this morning and Ben Lomond this afternoon, about 16 miles and 7000' overall. Luss run was Beinn Dubh, Mid Hill, Coille-eughain Hill finishing down the paps. Set off in bright sunshine, little wind until near the top of Beinn Dubh. A glass like Loch Lomond shimmered below. Passed a few walkers on the way up, made the mistake of running past them which meant we had to keep running. Wheezed our way to the top in 52 minutes, easy running along the ridge and down mid hill before the stiff 1000' in just under a mile of Coille-eughain Hill. Good running down the Paps, a lot easier than their Jura equivalents. Home for some food, then itchy feet, such a nice day I set off for Rowardennan for an easy run up Ben Lomond, maybe even get to use my micro spikes. Lots of walkers out so had to keep running again. Managed to run most of the way to the last steep bit before the plateau where I had a wee recovery walk before a steady jog up the plateau, towards the end the track was pretty snowy so on with the micro spikes for the run up to the summit ridge.

The spikes are easy to put on and worked well, confident on snow and mud up and down hill. It was a bit breezy at the top with cornices to the glens at the back, didn't stay long just stopping a few minutes for some photos, views to Arran and Jura.

Ardgarten

A wee break from hills this week with a run round the Ardgarten loop. Last time I ran here I walked over a third of the way in 12 to 18 inch deep snow, took me over 5 1/2 hours. Set off in the afternoon, sunny and cool with only a little breeze. Nice run down looking across to the snow capped Luss Hills I was up a couple of weekends ago. From Corran lochan across to Loch Goil a few snow patches, a longer run now as the new cycle track comes out quite close to Loch Goil. Ran up the road for a mile or so then jogged and walked to the top of the RaBT on forest track. Steady run back down to Ardgarten finishing in just over 3 hours 50. A few pictures here.

PWWHSM

More wintery weather this weekend so a local run round the Vale hills, Pappert Well, Whinney Hill & Stoneymollan, about 18 miles with 3200' of ascent. The plan was to go out easy and keep it that way, I struggled last time after a mudfest on Whinney Hill. A bitter wind on Pappert.

Keen to get out the wind and took the boggy race route back down instead of the ridge path, easy run across the fields and golf course then back on the road through Haldane and up the Molanbowie road. Pleased to get off road onto the Whinney Hill Trail.

The Whinney hill seat was inviting but I left it for another day. Pleasant run back through the park before another short road section through Balloch. Jogged up the Stoneymollan back into the wind. Good run along towards the trig point, snow getting a bit deeper. After the trig difficult to run, the drfiting snow hiding all sorts of trip hazards and bogs. Had to walk from Overton Muir to the Fort.

Shuffle down the hill and onto the farm track towards the radio mast for a bit of fun working my way through the waist deep drifts. Finished in a minute or two over 4 hours.

Lusstrous

Clouds above the tops but Scotland's mountains still snow covered meant another Luss run.

 I planned a longer route this week, 18 miles with 8000' of ascent. The first part of the run the same as last week, Beinn Dubh & Doune Hill,  then instead of Beinn Eich & Coille-eughain hill to finish, I planned to cross to the other side of Glen Luss over Cruach An t-Sidhein, Beinns A' Mahanach, Chaorach and Tharsuinn and a couple of unnamed tops, finishing over Coille-eughain hill. Lower down the ground wasn't frozen so cold feet to start in the melt water from last weeks ice and snow. The tops are still frozen hard so a chance to dry my feet but a bit tough to run on.

All went well until I was having a break on Cruach An t-Sidhein and a snowy squall blew through, difficult to tell how bad it would get so I dropped into the Glen missing out Beinn A'Mhanach, it was hard going through the Glen on trackless tussocky ground and as the skies cleared overhead I changed back to the planned route climbing Beinn Chaorach with a few hundred feet extra thrown in as I had passed the beallach by then. Still managed to cover 9 hills with 17 miles and 7400' of ascent, finishing in just under 6 1/2 hours. Pictures and route map here. The skylarks were singing so maybe Spring is here at last.

Luss again

Looking for a longer run this week and with the clag down thought about Arrochar as its easier to navigate, a change of plan saved the day and I set off for Luss, same route as a couple of weeks ago, starting up Beinn Dubh and finishing off down the Paps. Good running at the bottom, ground firm but not frozen hard. The wind picked up as I climbed higher, second jacket and fleece lined hat on before the top, now some icy stuff coating the grass, the wire fence rime encrusted.

Not a day for hanging about, although once on the ridge towards Mid Hill the wind eased off. Ran down into Sith Mor dropping out the clouds and into the relative calm of the valley. Picked my way up Doune Hill using the gulleys to shelter from the worst of the wind. Reached the bealach for the last push to the top the wind stealing my breath, careful to keep some idea of direction as I skirted round larges patches of ice on the way.  The summit was a blast, visibility down to a few metres with icy rain stinging face and eyes.

The icy grass hiding any sign of the path I made my way off towards Beinn Lochain, the quad bike tracks at the bottom of one steep slope a sign I wasn't too far off line. More pathless stuff up and over Beinn Lochain and I was happy to meet Lyndsay on the way to Beinn Eich, he was out for a shorter run and turned back with me. Heads bowed we kept moving as we took more arctic blasts over Beinn Eich finally relaxing when they eased as we dropped down into the glen. I crossed the glen for the 1000' in a mile trudge up Coille-eughain Hill, back into the wind but nothing like before, pleasant run down the Paps, a bit quicker than a couple of weeks ago, finishing just under 4 1/2 hours. A few more pictures here.

Lomond 1/2

35 runners for the 3rd race in thus years GP, 11 from the club and 24 guests. A hilly half, round the Horseshoe, through Balloch Park, Balloch, Lomond Shores then onto the cycle path to the Vale returning to the club round the Vale Academy. Staggered start and I went with the last group and watched them run off into the distance before catching a few on the way round. Good run for a road race, finished in about 1:49. Some pictures here and here.

Luss

Perfect weekend for Luss hills, ground frozen and feet stay dry and warm. Anti clockwise circuit of Glen Luss/Glen Mollochan, 14 miles and about 6000' of ascent. Beinn Dubh, Mid Hill, Doune Hill, Beinn Lochain, Beinn Eich, Coille Eughain Hill and down over the Paps to finish back at the mouth of the glen. Busy day with lots of walkers out enjoying the air. Quite warm climbing Beinn Dubh until the last couple of hundred feet, jacket on as the breeze freshened. Great views to the snow capped peaks of the Arrochar Alps and beyond while running along the ridge to Mid Hill. I took a wider than normal route down into Sith Mor starting off West then North dropping in on a herd of deer on the way. The climb up Doune Hill a bit easier than usual on the frozen ground. Different route at the top taking on the North side picking my way round snow patches while traversing the steep slopes overlooking Glen Douglas. On the way back I met a crowd from the Langcrags walking club on Beinn Lochain, I'd run with a couple of them. Lots of frozen snow made the going easy at the top of the ridge to Beinn Eich then good ground on the way down to the Glen passing groups of walkers. As usual I wanted to avoid the run down the road and set off across the Glen for the short climb up Coille Eughain Hill, this took its toll and the run across the tussocks and bogs at the top tough on tiring legs. The reward was a fern free run down off the Paps with only the usual boggy bits at the bottom to slow me down. Finished in about 4 3/4 hours incl a few stops to chat and a sheep rescue.

Carnethy 5

The 43rd running of the Carnethy 5 and my 9th. Its the first race in this years SHR Championship series and a record field turned out on a good day for running over these five Pentland hills, dry and cool with little breeze. Usual charge across the bogs to start, the new Carnethy financed gate less of a hold up than the old style we used to climb over. Soon we're climbing up Scald Law, 22 1/2 mins to the top, steady run along a squidgy path to the sharp ups and downs of the Kips via South Black Hill. Got my breath back for a while on the traversing descent from West Kip to the Howe. The climb up Carnethy soon fixes that, three short ups in succession, track, gulley then the pull up to the summit. Round the top for the first part of the descent on steep grassy tracks, a chance to relax before the heathery plunge to the bottom. The heather takes its toll and I almost come to a halt before finding slightly easier going down what used to be a path to a short fast scree section, why some people slow down here I'm not sure, more heathery bits before I hit the bottom with dead legs for three or four minutes of torture across the bogs to finish just under 84 minutes, a few seconds quicker than last year. As usual loads of pictures, Bobbies, SHR, Sandy Wallace, Bob Marshall, see if you can spot the Milburn Vest!

Whinney Hill

A wintery day for the last Club Cross Country of the season, the only record broken today was the number of runners, 23. A lap of a soggy Balloch Park to start then we exit on the narrow path to Boturich road. Into Whinney Hill then across the road, nice path to start soon deteriorates into a slippy muddy root strewn path up the hill. No respite when at the top with ankle deep mud until come out the other side. Similar to Polaroid, the first three away and clear I'm in the second group of three, we swap places a few times along the way. Through the deer fence and I plod my way up the top section towards the seat and back into the mud,. From the seat its downhill and slippy for a while then a wee rest before turning up into the forest and the mud fest again, gradually pick up pace along the top before a tricky run down to the road crossing. The path back down to the park easy to run on then a twisting turning muddy path back to finish at Balloch Castle in just under 48 mins and a Team Millie Soup kitchen in full flow.

5k and PWWHSM

Had another go at the 5k Balloch Park run today, not as many runners this week, same friendly welcome. A few seconds faster than last time finishing just under 23 minutes. Home for refreshments then set off for a round of the Vale's hills, Pappert Well, Whinney Hill & Stoneymollan. Running nice and easy onto the hill towards Pappert Well under blue skies. The ground was frozen so a chance to keep my feet dry and relatively warm, reached the trig point in just over 40 minutes. Pappert to Whinney takes me through a variety of terrain, fields, the golf course, housing estates then the Whinney Hill trail from Boturich road, rather muddy today. Reached the seat in 2 hours. Plenty of walkers out today all taking a variety of routes to avoid the muddy trail. Back in Balloch Park I chased a large bird of prey, just before I could take a picture it would take off and fly a few trees further along, soon gave up the chase and set off for the Stoneymollan. Getting tired now and I was looking forward to a walk up the road, lots of walkers and a mountain biker out so I just kept running. Managed to jog most of the way up to the trig point, then easy running along to the fort, down past the radiomast, happy to get home in about 4 hours 10. A few pictures here.

The Dukes Path

This weeks long run, the 20 mile Ardgarten loop. Down Loch Long side to start, the trail is covered with a few inches of snow, blue skies overhead, pleasant running, stopping for a few photos of the surrounding hills along the way. The Brack.....

Tullich and Doune Hills.....

 Tullich Hill and Ben Reoch behind....

Its good fun for five or six miles with a height gain of about 500'. The next mile and a half to Corran Lochan was where the fun started, climbing uphill another 250' was enough for the snow to increase from 3 or 4 inches to about a foot deep and a slow energy sapping trudge.

The views over an icy Corran Lochan to Clach Bheinn behind were looking good in the snow and I set off across to Loch Goil, its only a couple of miles!

No running here either but another 150' of ascent and a few more inches of snow made for a long walk, luckily a snowy squall blew through to help me along.

By the time I reached the Loch Goil track, the sky was clearing with great views to the hills across the loch. I was ready for a run to thaw out the blocks of ice that were my toes. 4 miles from here and a mile and a half past Lochgoilhead is Pole Farm and I turned on to the forest trails again for a steady 3 mile 1000' climb up to the top of the Rest and Be Thankful. Somehow the snow got deeper again and its another mile or two of walking to get to the top. I turned into Glen Crow, downhill at last, the snow didn't seem to get this and stayed about a foot deep, another couple of miles of walking towards the Cat Crag Loop turnoff where at last the snow began to release its grip and I managed a steady run for the last mile or so finishing in just over 5 hours 40 instead of the usual 4 hours.

Polaroid Industrial Estate

First club race of the year, 2 laps of the Industrial Estate. The trail had been cleared since last week, the track dug out and fallen trees removed, combined with the low temperatures drying the ground out made for a faster run. 19 of us set off over the tussocky field through the woods and one of the two remaining muddy bits down to the path beside the river Leven, the first couple of hundred yards had been dug out, ok for walking, not so good for running. The front three stretched away ahead and I stayed in the next group of three before we split up after one and a half laps and I dropped behind. The second part of each lap goes through more trees and mud as the river turns away from the course, through some fields with a short up and down and some rougher ground before the run down the grass verge to the finish, then we do it again. First lap just over 18 mins, second lap nearer 19. Cooled down collecting the markers in, a good day for a run.

Pappert

Struggled out for a run on Sunday afternoon, along the cycle path to the Polaroid Industrial Estate and tried a lap of next weeks cross country course. The course was nice and muddy and clear with a couple of fallen trees to negotiate. Set off up through Strathleven then Pappert and onto the hill behind, took a direct route all the way up and we came out of the trees into a white clad misty landscape.

We ran up the ridge to the trig point and followed the trail round past the well, cold and wet underfoot,  frozen toes didn't make the going very easy. From the style we ran back to the remains of Northfield Cottage and onto the track that drops to the back of Bonhill. My heart was willing but my legs, and toes, couldn't face the Stoneymollan so we parted company at Bonhill bridge, straight home for me, about 10 miles and 1200' in just under 2 hours.

Two Crags

A nice short race to start the year, Calendar Crags, about 3 miles with 800' of ascent. Big field of about 130, congested start helped to keep the pace sensible up the narrow zig zag path, ran where I could, it is a race after all, towards the top the gradient eases as the ground gets rougher, roots, rocks and mud, so you have to balance pace and effort, 18 minutes to the top, pass the cairn running now along and down the short ridge path into the woods where the path slalom's round the trees for a hundred yards or so before your sent along a short road section, slightly uphill at first then gets steeper downhill for about half a mile before the last half mile or so back on forest trails, finished in 35 and a half mins. Sunday's crag was the Cat Crag Loop with a few extra miles. Starting at Ardgarten I ran three quarters of the way round the CC Loop then continued up to the top of the Rest and Be Thankful on the trails on the South side of Glen Croe.

View from the Cat Crag Loop to Arrochar

Should have brought some money  for the Tea Van in the car park at the top of the Rest. Ran back down the old road into the wind past deer, cows and then horses clad in padded jackets.

Looking back up the old road

A loop on the high trail on the north side of Glen Croe to finish, it was tough running past Ardg 400' below before coming back via the lower trail.

Nearly finished! The Brack from the lower trail on the approach to Ardgarten

Finished the 14 miles with 2800' of ascent in just under three hours, got the first couple of hours dry then drenched for the last hour.

Glen Finlas

Setting off about half nine we could see the tops were covered in snow and didn't fancy a slog up either Shantron or Creachin hills so we ran along the road towards the damn. Just before the damn a track leads off to the right and makes for a runnable climb, once past the loch we leave the track and head towards the low point on the ridge just past Beinn Ruisg. Following a faint trod up the side of the glen to begin with, once into the snow we take what looks like the smoothest route onto the ridge avoiding a big gulley near the top of the glen.

On the ridge we work our way round anti-clockwise towards the two un-named tops marked 657m and 693m, only sheep for company today. From top 693 we run away from the Finlas horseshoe, West out to Beinn Tharsuinn then North to Beinn Chaorach, these hills overlook the top of Glens Luss and Fruin. This stretch is bit more exposed and I could feel my face freezing as we run along. The top of Chaorach is like a blast freezer, we didn't wait too long at the trig point before turning back towards the Finlas horseshoe. Its hard going in the snow, one second your on top then the crust breaks and you sink in up to your knees, by the time we get back to top 693 my legs are like jelly, we run straight over on a snowy path towards Loch Lomond. Working hard now over tussocks and snow drifts we maintain a steady pace to Balcnock and down towards Craperoch where there's a few peat hags and bogs to negotiate, difficult to run now and after a few shin crunching tumbles into icy bogs we escape by turning North East straight towards the glen from the top of Craperoch for a steep run down to cross the damn wall and an easy 2 mile run back to the car. We covered 4 hills plus two un-named tops (one twice) in 12 miles with 4000' of ascent in just under 4 hours. A few  more pictures here.

Balloch Park Cross Country

Great morning for the first of the Club Cross Country races, pity my effort didn't match the day. Nineteen runners in all, three laps for most, a few two & one lappers as well. The Spaniels providing moving hurdles when you weren't looking. Took the first lap nice n steady then got slower and slower, it was a nice day for a run. Team Millie out in full with cups of tea and coffee to finish, there was soup, a fry up and mulled wine if it took your fancy.

Glen Croe

An Arrochar run with a difference, a low level trail run, starting in Succoth up through the woods onto the forest trail to Ardgarten, along Glen Croe to the top of the Rest and Be Thankful using what's left of the old road, returning to Ardgarten on the forest road below Ben Donich and the Brack, cross the A83 and back to Succoth on forest tracks and roads, 14 miles and 2750' of ascent with only about 1 mile on the road. Being on forest roads makes it possible to run all the way, a change from the usual jog walk over the surrounding hilltops. No complaints today as the clouds were scudding around leaving a white pallor behind as they moved from top to top. A few pictures here.

Tinto and a Duathlon

A new race for me, Tinto is about 4 1/2 miles with 1500' of ascent. We set off at 2 pm up the track. Runnable at first then the undulations put me into jog walk mode up most of Totherin Hill, we bypass the top, running again around its flank through Maurice's Cleuch before the gradient puts me in my place, another walk, I gradually pick up pace towards the top of Tinto reaching it in just over 35 mins, I run round the large cairn eager for the descent realising the winner has finished a few minutes ago. Easy running down over the red felsite rock Tinto is made of wary of the frequent muddy patches preferring to go off path onto the heathery stuff at the side. I manage to pass a few people on the way back which helps to make up for my slow climb. Descent time about 14 mins, pleased to finish just under 49 mins, 163rd out of 259. Pictures here and here.

Sunday was the 2nd last race in this years Club Grand Prix, another new one, a Duathlon, a 4 mile run round the Vale then 8 miles on the bike on Auchencarroch Road, finished in 71 minutes, 6th out of 14, 31 minute run, 40 minute cycle, pictures here.

Dumyat Dash

Back for a second go at this short race, 5 or 6  miles and 1800' of ascent. Another good day, clear skies, cool with little or no breeze. As I approached Drymen snow covered Campsies came in to view which reminded me I had left my race shoes at home, oops, a double back from Drymen to collect them took half an hour and now I was pushed for time hopefully I missed the speedtrap on the Stirling Straights. The race starts and nearly 100 of us set off from Menstrie village green, a short section of road then a couple of miles of farm track undulating up as it winds its way into the Ochils behind Dumyat. Off road and a short drop into the Glen and through the Menstrie Burn before a jog walk up the back of Dumyat the leaders come tumbling by as I trudge up the tussocky ascent. 51 Minutes and I'm running round the summit cairn, superb views all round. I take a while to get into a rhythm on the way back down and only manage to catch a couple of runners in front by the bottom of the glen. From here the return route takes a muddy undulating trail beside the Menstrie Burn, a couple of steep inclines keep the pace in check then I get a second wind and ease past three runners in quick succession thankful for the grippy shoes I went back for. Soon we rejoin the farm track for a quick run down into Menstrie, I can't catch the two runners just in front until they bypass one of the steep tricky shortcuts I go for it, stumble down and come out in front. Steady effort for a couple of hundred yards keeps me ahead and I'm back running along the road to finish on the village green in 76 minutes, a minute or so quicker than last year. Tea and biscuits in the village hall, showers too if you want.

Cool running in the Arrochar Alps

The morning at least promised good weather and I woke to clear skies although a bit dark. Vane, Ime and Narnain seemed about right. I set off through Glen Loin just after half 8 clear blue skies above frozen ground underneath. Walking the hills to save something for later. Reaching the cut off for Vane thankful the usually swampy ground was frozen keeping my feet dry and not cold, not warm either but hey ho I can put up with that. As usual negative thoughts come to the fore on this climb, why bother, maybe I'll just do this one and run back down the glen, it seems to be a bit of a struggle today. I get to the top after a few photo stops and walk around the small summit plateau to take in the views. Feeling better now and exit the summit along the ridge to the west, run a bit further than usual before dropping down into the Glen, this means more running than scrambling and helps to keep my body and feet warm, the sun hasn't reached this side of the hill yet. On the climb out the other side from a usually deserted Lag Uaine I meet a lone walker, a hello and a wave as we pass from our respective ridges is as close as it gets here. A frosty climb to Ime's summit follows where I am joined by a walker and his dog for a few minutes, we both agree 4 legs are better than 2 up here. The path off Ime frozen hard and I run on the soft rush to the side taking care to avoid icy rocks and frozen streams lurking beneath the grass. This side of the Alps is busier with walkers and gives me something to chase and keep a bit of effort going on the way up Narnain. At the top I hide behind a draughty dry stane shelter beside the trig point, too cold to wait here for long I scramble off through the Spearhead for the long run down to Succoth. Finish the 14 or so miles with 6500' of ascent in just under 5 1/2 hours.

Milestones

Luss run on Saturday morning, the target was 12 miles, Beinn Eich, Beinn Lochain and Doune Hill for the outward half, Mid Hill and Beinn Dubh then back in to the glen to complete the horseshoe. Steady run up the road to start, soon walking once on the steep lower slopes of Eich. I managed a few jogs on the top half as the gradient eases helped by a few stops to take in the views which were good today, the tops clear with cloud lying in the valleys and over the loch.

From the top of Beinn Eich we run most of the way to Doune Hill then freewheel down into Sith Mor before the slow trudge up Mid Hill pleased to reach the top in just over three hours. Jog along to Beinn Dubh took us 20 minutes, we then eased down the hill to complete this undulating run with 5000' of ascent in 3 hours 47. A few more pictures here. I've been running since 1997 and today's 12 miles took me to 20,000 since I started including over 1500000 feet of ascent. Not much in comparison to others but worth a couple of beers all the same.

Narnain and the cobbler

Took a while to choose a route, drove to Arrochar and set off after 3, Narnain and the Cobbler was the target, .  Straight up from Succouth, concrete blocks, swamp then crags, good fun and steady effort required to get to the top, 1 hr 30, 10 mins slow!!! Run off Narnain sub 20 minutes and found a nice trod taking me to the Cobbler, 15 minute climb to the Beallach between the Cobbler tops, hard work running off the front, next time I'll go back down the way I came, 8 miles and 4400 feet in 3 hours 5 minutes, misty pictures here.

Ben Lomond

The weather forecast said go my legs had other ideas but felt ok after a nights sleep. Scraped ice off the car and we set off for Rowardennan. Only a slither of low cloud over Loch Lomond promised much as we jogged along to the Ptarmigan path. Walking the steep bits, I gradually ease into the hill jogging slowly where I can. Lots of short breaks to take in the views and a few photos. Over one ridge we disturb a couple of deer. Apart from a single walker we pass at the top of the Ptarmigan ridge and two walkers leaving Lomond's summit we have had the climb to ourselves. Icy steps for the last steep climb to the summit. What a day, Jura, Arran, Ailsa Craig all clear on the horizon, a couple of walkers point out the Forth Road Bridge as they sit in the sun. We stay as long as we can in the cool breeze in our running gear then set off along the ridge dropping down the new race route we come across 4 Ptarmigan who scuttle along a few yards in front so I chase them for a few photos before they fly away, only 10 yards or so, although its enough to send us on our way down. We run along the rocky plateau dodging the crowds on their way up, towards the end we take a grassy track taking us off the path and cruise down to the gate happy to be on softer ground, through the gate we're back onto the track, brakes off and I let gravity take over for a while, it feels effortless without the pressure to race and before I know it I'm on the last wee downhill into the car park. 2 1/2 hours of fun, mountain and sun.

Ben Venue

3 Millies took part within the 101 starters, weather couldn't have been better, clear blue skies, almost no wind. Off we went, a longer run up the forest roads this year as the trees are being chopped down. We followed the usual return route on the way out then hung a right behind the remnants of the forest to to pick up the ascent ridge of Ben Venue, Stevie C away ahead and when Bo passed me before BV summit it gave me a wee lift and I upped the effort to regain a few of the places lost on the climb. Took a few pictures on the way up, working too hard to care after that. Picked my way along the rocky run off BV running where possible. After the cairn the track follows a fenceline, undulating upwards, boggy in parts with a couple of deep pools to wade, reached the 2nd summit checkpoint looking for some respite, thankfully its all down hill from here. Picked a good line down to start the descent, a runnable gulley better than the usual slither and slide, only went to ground once. Near the bottom ferns give a bit of grip and I gradually reel in a couple of runners in front. Keep it steady along the narrow undualting track to the forest roads then try to relax into a faster pace, doesn't really work and the runner in front edges ahead without getting away, he's looking back and that usually gives me a boost, nothing extra left, probably used it all up along the ridge between the summits. Passed the old finish line in 2 hours, another 5 minutes to the finish and tea and cakes before a wash in Loch Achray, just managed to resist the urge to dive in.

Blusstery

Luss horseshoe run, an early start today as I wanted to be back before 1, Beinn Dubh, Mid Hill, Sith Mor, Doune Hill, Beinn Lochain and Beinn Eich, 12 or so miles and close to 5000' of up and down. Climbing Beinn Dubh I am working hard but getting cold in the high winds, there's a sheltered spot before the top and I stop to put on a second jacket, hat gloves and a buff and just try to keep moving forwards. Reach the top in about an hour.

Running along the ridge towards Mid hill is a bit of a struggle into the wind, keep going to try to warm up my feet. The path winds round the corries and past the small cairns before the tussocky run off Mid hill into Sith Mor the wind whipping through from Glen Douglas. As I approach a crag on the way down some deer run across in front of me, 2 adult females and a fawn, too fast for my camera, I look up as I pass the crag and a Stag peeks over about 10 feet above me then jumps back startled. Across Sith Mor and into the sun for the climb up Doune Hill, I stick to smoother ground away from the stream which tumbles from the lochan at the top, more exposed here and the wind strengthens again as I climb up. A few squally showers blow through as I reach the top the rain needle like on the side of  my face. Blown along the ridge over Beinn Lochain the wind now at my back gives me a welcome shove on the last climb up Beinn Eich.

Jog down into the calm of the Glen and the last couple of undualting miles on the road, pleased to finish in 4 hours 15. A few pictures here.

Merrick

Back to Glen Trool for a soggy Merrick, same out and back route as last year. The weather cleared up by the start promising much.

About 40 of us set off for the 20 yard run before we relaxed into walk mode up the Fell of Esconchan, just over 12 minutes of huff puff and sweat before I was running across the top. Another walk up the steep lower slopes of Bennan, into the mist for a staggery traverse round Bennan's top skipping over rocks and holes. Steady run through Course Craig apart from the swampy bits, climbed the wall at the bottom of Benyellary into a world of wind and rain, hat and jacket to the rescue for a head down plod up the tussocky hillside, running again as I approached the top, the running action helped to keep me warm rather than making me any faster. Visibility not good, but walls and paths to follow. The front runners coming back  now, ghosting by in the mist on a variety of lines along the Neive of the Spit. Now for the last climb to the top of Merrick, I can run most of this. Round the cairn in 78 minutes. Pass the last few runners coming up Merrick on my way back, run up Benyellary and down the tussocky slopes to Course Craig, over the wall and escape from the windy rainy torture chamber. Tired legs evident on the traverse round Benan , the steep trods at the bottom churned up by the runners in front make for a fun descent and I manage to catch a couple of runners at the bottom. Run over the undulating last top before a steep swampy trod back down to the start. Finished in 2 hours 11. Some more pictures here. More pictures here. Tough wee race, about 8 1/2 miles. Big thanks to the cheery marshalls on Bennan, Benyellary and Merrick who stood there in pretty horrible conditions.

5k and a Luss hill run

Parkrun nearly comes to Balloch. Saturday mornings have a new informal 5k run round Balloch Park. About 30 gathered today, all ages and standards. The course is marked with 20 or so direction arrows and markers at each km. A nice uphill start from the Park gates, the route goes behind the Castle then back down in front, past the walled garden for a run along the lochside, turning back through the playing field and tracks finishing back at the gates. Finished 5th, just over 23 minutes. Drove up to Luss after lunch for a 9 mile 3700' run up Beinn Dubh, down Mid Hill across the Glen to the short steep climb up Coille Eughain Hill running back down to the bottom of the Glen over the Paps. A quiet afternoon only a few walkers out, a breezy mixture of sun and mist. 

Followed a new animal track off the Paps a bit longer than usual but by passed the worst of the brashing. Finished in about 2 hours 50. A few more pictures here.

5 Mile Handicap

19 of us set off at 1 minute intervals for this years race, worked for some. The starter having a bit of fun tonight handing out early and late starts depending on your behaviour. Slightly longer course this year, thanks to club members and their gps. Set off near the back, try to go slow at the start, nearly works. Onto the cycle path then over Bonhill bridge and up to Jamestown, caught one or two. Soon passing the Tullie roundabout and along to Christie Park, Middleton st, this time to the end, down to Davie Graham's and back to the club, finishing in just over 36 mins.

Ben Nevis

Weekend in Glen Nevis campsite with the Ben Race thrown in as a wee bonus. Forecast of 75 mph gales didn't quite come to fruition. Sat started damp with the top of  Melantee well hidden by cloud, by the time I registered the cloud was lifting. Just before 1 o'clock the usual plod round the field behind the pipe band, through kit check and the Race started with the news that half way was perfect and the summit windy with visibility down to 30 metres. Reached the Ben Nevis Inn in an easy 9 mins 15. Steady run up the tourist path, probably too steady arriving at the Red Burn Crossing in 57 mins. Straight up from here, started ok then faded about half way up and lost a few places. Jacket, hat & gloves on in the cold damp wind, felt a bit better and pushed on as the gradient eased, caught a few who had just gone past. Jogged over the jagged rocks to the summit checkpoint in 1 hour 53 and turned for home. Picked off runners in ones and twos down the steep rocky trail before the grassy bank. Only one got past me here, better than usual. Running down the tourist path I stuck to the path rather than any of the possible short cuts and didn't lose any more places. A bit stop start past the walkers going up and down though. Reached the Nevis Inn and onto the road for the last mile, managed to pass another three and keep ahead of those trying to close behind. Finished in 2 hours 53. A runners pictures from the weekend here. Picture set where I can be found gasping for breath here and smiling here. I'm only in the uphill pictures as I didn't run quite fast enough!

Dumgoyne and the Devil's Pulpit

We set off just after 8 for a short run in the Campsies over Dumgoyne Hill, Garloch Hill along to the Earls Seat and back. I got a 5 minute start and reached the top of Dumgoyne in just over 25 mins, for a change I was 1st, about a minute ahead. A quick break to take in the views and off we went down the back of Dumgoyne for the steady trudge up Garloch Hill, I would usually try and run all the way but it was to be easy today, so jog walk and chat instead of gasp.

From Garloch Hill the ridge undulates along, ran most of the way, a short walk here and there to keep the breathing under control. Views of hills for miles around with only a few wind turbines.

We stopped at the Earls Seat for a drink and some pictures before the easier run back finishing in 2 hours. We set off for the short drive home stopping on the way to explore the Devil's Pulpit.

 I had been here once before over 30 years ago. We walked along the top of the gorge looking for a way down and found a narrow overgrown gulley with some muddy steps known as Jacobs Ladder, scrambling down past a tree growing through the steps we reached a small sandy area at the bottom, took a few pictures up and down the gorge and to the top far above. On our way back we could hear screams, looking down there was a group in wetsuits traversing through the gulley, looked like fun, a number of companies offer to take you through for a few quid. A few more pictures here.

Arrochar Alps

After a couple of weeks off I needed some steep rocky terrain. Gave Sunday's Lomonds of Fife race a miss and set off Sat afternoon for Arrochar. The plan was Glen Loin, Lag Uaine, Ben Ime, Ben Narnain, 12 miles and 4800' of ascent. Took it nice n easy as the sun came out on the steady 5 mile climb up Glen Loin, jog/walked the lumpy path between Vane and Ime, ascending Ime initially beside the gnarly ridge then veered across to pick up a new route, directly to a misty summit where I met the first walkers of the day heading for Butterbridge. On the boggy run down Ime the cloud cleared and I could see a walker climbing Narnain, someone to chase. Set off on the climb up Narnain, running at first, then walk/gasp the rest, didn't manage to catch the walker, he was a runner from Troon resting his knees on Doctors orders. Good run down to Succouth in about an hour, finishing in 4 hours 15.

Ben More

I tried Ben More back in May when I couldn't get to the top for snow, Sat morning forecast was pretty good and I  left the Vale nice n early driving up the side of a glassy Loch Lomond in the sun. Arrived in Crianlarich blue skies above except for a big grey cloud sitting on top of Ben More and Stob Binnien. Ran up the forest road and found the trail marked with white tape through the trees, lose sight of the tape and I have to fight my way through the last few trees. Onto the open hill at last, a more direct route this time, throughn tussocks, bogs and over moss covered rocks, steeper too. Cross the deer fence and onto the Sron Nam Forsairean ridge at about 2500' where a faint path winds me up and along the craggy ridge. Thermal top, hat, gloves and jacket on as I climb up into the clouds. I'm soon past where I stopped last time, a good decision as the summit is some distance further along the ridge. The path fades in and out over bouldery ground and eventually the summit trig looms out the mist where I stop and catch a breath and something to eat sheltering from the cool breeze. The run off  easy at first down the ridge and I soon warm up when I drop below the cloud. Over the deer fence and I stop to pick a line back into the forest, the tussocks make for a slow careful descent before a steep scramble back into the forest and I find the lucky white tape again. Finish in 3 hours and 1 minute. Some pictures here.

Arrochar Hills

Made up for missing the Arrochar Alps race last week with a run over three of them, Vane, Ime and Narnain, 13 miles and 6500' of ascent. Trail run for 4 miles to start taking me up into Glen Loin and Coiregrogain. Through the bog at the bottom of Vane then the path gets drier as I climb up.

Quite atmospheric today, shafts on sunlight breaking through the clouds as they blow about in the gentle breeze. Good line off the back of Vane, footprints from last weeks race as I go down and these continue over Ime and Narnain. I find my usual ridge to start the climb from Lag Uaine up Beinn Ime then pick up a race trod SE of my usual line, more direct climbing up beside a crag I usually go round, saves me about 5 minutes.

Good running straight down to Bealach a'Mhaim, only Narnain to go, about half way up I traverse NE to a parallel path, a bit steeper but avoids some of the boulders.

Past the trig point and scramble down through the Spearhead onto the twisting and turning path back to Succoth. Washed the mud off in the Jacuzzi, jogged back to the car, just over 5 hours. A few more pictures here.

Ted Baker Pappert Well

Club hill race, the 10th running, 2 of us have managed to run them all. Starts in Bonhill up to Pappert Well and back, a runnable lollipop route, 5 miles with about 1000' of ascent. 24 runners tonight going in handicap order. I set off along the road steady effort over a small up and down before the climb initially past houses then into the woods, where the smooth path up to the stile makes the climb a bit easier. Over the stile and onto a rough path which got muddier the further we went. Round the trig point, no stopping for the views tonight. Stumble along the tricky path almost in the fir trees drop into the woods and splashed my way down the mushy track looping back to join the outward track, firmer ground now, over the stile, smooth path again, preferred this when it was roots and bumps. All downhill now apart from a short up when we get back on the road. Run in to finish in 46:40 to the sound of the bell. Prize giving and refreshments courtesy of Mo & Pete make for a nice end to the race.

Luss

An evening run so it had to be close, Beinn Dubh, Mid Hill and Coille-eughain Hill, about 10 miles and 3600' sounded good. I started up Beinn Dubh the only sounds a rhythmic squelch breathe and a soothing pitter patter of rain on my jacket. The views open up at first then gradually disappear as I climb up onto the cloudy summit ridge.

Thankfully the rain and the breeze ease off for the jog along past the corries and cairns to Mid Hill. I concentrate on keeping to the path, not that I'm going to get lost, its just comfortably familiar and a bit easier to run on. Running off Mid Hill towards the glen when Luss and an island strewn Loch appear as I drop under the clouds.

Crossing an old wooden bridge over Luss Water a quiet Owl lands on the tree next to me where it swivels round to watch me take my camera out before flying off. I'm on the last climb, a steep pull up CE hill, it feels good climbing up accompanied by Larks singing as the light fades. Too soon I am on top looking down over Luss, the streetlights glow brighter as I descend the Paps. 

Leaving the Paps I pick my way through the remains of the forest in the gloom, nearly finished now, just a couple of fields and some farm track to go, I could almost taste the beer until a sudden faceplant in a ditch right where the cows cross. A quick wash in Luss Water removes the worst of it. I finish in just over 2 1/2 hours, a few minutes quicker than last month.

Dollar

Didn't fancy this, forecast poor, wet n windy, yes it was a poor forecast as it turned out sunny for most of the run. Start and finish beside the cricket pavilion at Dollar Academy a 10 mile loop covering 3200 feet of ascent over rolling grassy Ochils in the sun. Over 100 set off up through Dollar Glen for the climb up Saddle and Whitewisp Hills, about 2000' in 2 1/2 miles, the crocodile extending out in front.

Once up on top its good running over Tarmangie and Skythorn Hills to the turning point round Andrew Gammels summit to a shorter than it looks drop down and over Kings Seat Hill back towards Dollar, the minor blip of Bank Hill is the last up with a steep grassy drop into Dollar Glen where I stopped to check out a runner who had taken a tumble, a bit dazed, he had someone with him and help was on its way. A few minutes later I was through the glen and running back towards Dollar Academy to showers, tea and cakes. Finished in 2 hours and a few minutes. Pictures here.

Glen Douglas Hills

Sunday morning and after a no run week got a call to go for a run over some of the Glen Douglas hills. Start and finish from Invergroin. After a boggy start a pleasant pull up faint tracks on Beinn Breacs Western flank, a few false summits and 50 odd minutes later we were on top great views up and down Loch Lomond and the Ben with its head in the clouds.

An easy ridge run along to Ben Reoch, over both its tops rewarded with views to the Arrochar Alps. A steep drop down into Ant Sreang and then a 20 minute climb up to the final top, Tullich Hill for views of Luss  hills and the Arrochar Alps. Nice 1/2 hour run down easy grassy slopes to Invergroin to finish, 6 miles, 3400' of ascent in 2 1/2 hours over these quiet hills. A few more pictures here.

Durisdeer

A wet Saturday for the 2nd medium race in this years SHR Championship, doubling up as the 2012 SAL Championship as well. A good field of 150 plus turned out despite the rain, hill runners like their cake. Set in the Lowther Hills we start with a charge up Black Hill before dropping down over Pettylung and a steep descent for the first of two crossings of the A702 onto farm track through Dalveen where a minor navigational error cost a few minutes. The route loops round Steygail on good tracks and paths over a couple of minor cols, the second one steep enough to force me to walk, before dropping down to cross the road again after Upper Dalveen. A steep climb through grassy crags and a tussocky jog to the foot of Well Hill, another walk to the top. Pleasant run down following a fence line before a short runnable climb back up Black Hill and a downhill cruise to finish in 2 hours 45 for the 10 miles and 3800' of ascent. A runners pictures here give you a feel for the route. Three runners went missing, luckily they phoned the Moffat Mountain Rescue who went to pick them up so we could all enjoy our tee and cakes in the old Durisdeer Church.

Easy run

After a couple or three hard weeks and forecast for wind and rain I gave the Glenrosa Horseshoe a miss and went for a run in the nearby Luss Hills, a loop over Beinn Dubh, Mid Hill and Coille-eughain Hill, about 10 miles and 3700'. Turned out to be a lovely sunny morning, set off for the jog walk up Beinn Dubh pleased to get to the top in 53 mins, felt longer. Pleasant run round the corries to get to the run down Mid Hill. Good views down Glen Luss to Loch Lomond.

Ran up the Glen road and across to the short steep climb up Coille-eughain hill. Worth it to avoid a run down the Glen road. Ran down the Paps finishing in 2 hours 45 with a quick cooling plunge into one of the large pools in Luss Water.

Cort Ma Law

My planned run to the top of the first climb changed to "walk all the way" within a few seconds of the start, ok it was a quick walk and I was far from last. Up onto the top and familiar undulating run over 4 minor tops on the way to CML summit. Slowly caught and passed the three runners just ahead. After CML the marshy run to Lecket Hill, dry this year with only the odd knee deep plunge. Tried to keep a steady pace without too much oxygen debt and got past another two. From the Lecket a progressively steeper run down into the gulley helped me pass two more tentative runners, crossed the two streams at the bottom and into good effort for a fast as possible walk mode up out the gulley, soon running again although slowly when I was caught by the last big bog as I tried to jump across, dragged myself out and set off again, thoughts of catching any more runners ahead changed to keep ahead of those behind, sneaked a glance on the last downhill and had enough of a gap to cruise down to finish in just over 71 minutes. Quick change in the car park as the midgies feasted before the drive home.

Slioch

A hilly weekend taking in the Slioch Hill Race and an easy run over some of Beinn Eighe's bits. Left on Friday afternoon for the 5 hour drive to Taagan campsite just past Kinlochewe. Great drive surrounded by classic Scottish mountain scenery through Glens Coe, Garry, Shiel, Carron, finally arriving in Glen Docherty at the head of Loch Maree just as the sun began to set.

Saturday morning and after porridge in the Whistle Stop Cafe (well worth a visit if your passing through) I had some time to kill before the race, drove through Glen Torridon to look over tomorrows run and spent a nice hour or so watching pairs of eagles soaring above while I had my second breakfast.

Just over 50 runners for the 12 mile race with 4000' of ups and downs. The first and last 3 miles are on a trail along towards Slioch, leaves most of the climbing packed into 6 fun miles, onto the first climb, Sgurr Dubh, it just gets steeper all the way to 2400 feet in a couple of miles, felt like I was going backwards, soon only two behind me and those in front going away, had a couple of jelly beans and felt a bit better, over the top and a welcome if short downhill to the two lochans before an easier climb to the first of Slioch's two summits.

Sgurr Dubh front middle, Slioch's summits back left, Sgurr an Tuill Bhain back right.

A short run across to the second top then a nice undulating ridge run, I was quite happy to jog along taking in the views, to Sgurr an Tuill Bhain. The drop off here is quite steep, but grassy and easy to run down, at the bottom a steeper rocky path drops into Gleann Biansadail, managed to reel in three runners by the bottom, good fun having to concentrate and work hard to keep the pace going. A quick splash and drink in the stream before what seemed like an endless run out towards Loch Maree, after 20 minutes of undulating riverside path at last I was back on the 3 mile trail to the finish where each small hill took its toll, walking and shuffling trying to catch the runner in front and not look back, sensing a runner behind. Its a cruel finish especially on a warm day, the reward is a beer and a chance to watch the next few runners come in before walking back for a feed in the village hall. I finished the 12 miles and 4000' in 3:35.

Slept better on Saturday night, the warm sun waking me at 8 the next morning. Packed up and left for Glen Torridon and the Coire Dubh Mor path, a stoney path not great for tired legs but it climbs gently passing between Beinn Eighe and the huge lump of Liatach.

Liatach with the Coire Dubh Mor path below

Round the prow of Sail Mhor the sense of wilderness grows as a jumble of mountian views opens up. The track gets a bit steeper as I approach Coire Mhic Fhearchair, well worth the effort, stop for a break in the sun, a few pictures and something to eat. At the back of the corrie I climb up a series of terraces past small pools and waterfalls towards my target, the stone chute to the side of the triple buttress, onto the Beinn Eighe ridge. A simple scramble on the North side of the chute makes for easier going. Up on the ridge, breezy and I set off for Ruadh-stac Mor the highest of Beinn Eighe's 9 tops. A quick run up and back to the main ridge helps keep me warm, I traverse along towards the other munro top, half way there I check out my planned descent route, A Choinneach Mhor, a steep scree slope. I've been out for nearly 4 hours and decide to miss the 2nd top and set off back down with anticipation. I am not dissapointed, a mixture of scree, rocks and boulders and I'm soon sliding, surfing and sometimes sitting in rivers of moving scree flowing down towards the valley floor. An absorbing 20 minutes later I'm back on the CDM path and jog back to the car in 4 hours 20 for 10 miles with 4000' of climbing. A wash in the river Torridon and I'm ready for the slow drive home.

Glengarry

A few more pictures here.

Kilpatrick Hill Race

Just made the start arriving straight from work for this bog and burn favourite, 6 miles and 1400 feet of climbing. A bit midgie for tonights 99 runners. Tarmac to start before a steady climb up the Kilpatrick braes, on top progressively faster running across the moor as I catch my breath then onto a landrover track covered in chuckies, sore on my feet so I kept to the side, past loch Humphries then onto moorland again a few ups and downs, one fall, don't step on wet rock at speed,  to a narrow tricky trod alongside Greenside reservoir, the short climb up the slacks feels hard but you can jog most of the top half if you don't look up. Past the trig point and I can breathe again, over fences and ditches then running hard downhill towards the steep drop back to the dreaded foot slapping tarmac to finish in 65 mins.

Arrochar in the sun

What a difference a week makes, another late start, sun sun sun, indecisive and went to Arrochar. Route was Glen Loin, over the stream then access the glen between Ime and Vane from the disappearing river, up through the glen and climb up Ime beside the gnarly ridge finishing with a quick down, up, down over Narnain. The 5 mile run up the Glen was hard in the heat, the trees keeping the breeze away. Nice run up to Lag Uaine beside the stream then a steep rocky climb into one of Ime's North facing corries, I even managed a bit of a run up towards the corrie rim. Made do with Ime's SE top before an easy jog down to Bealach a'Mhaim. Steady climb to Narnain's flat rocky summit before the 3000' in 2 mile descent back to the forest roads. Sweat and stoor washed off in the Jacuzzi, finished 12 miles with 4800 of climbing in 4 hours 10, some pictures here.

Chasing Ptarmigan

Late run yesterday, left the house about 2, I wanted some steep hills and Ben More from the Crianlarich side sort of fitted. The route was to be a circuit over Ben More, Stob Binnien and back via Stob Coire an Lochain and Meall na Dige, didn't quite make it. Start point was a path from a layby 5 miles past Crianlarich. Soon onto forest roads winding up under Glas Leathad, saw a path saying "open hill access" that's what I took, it led back onto the forest road further up, decided to head uphill through a brashing filled gulley towards the ridge Sron nam Forsairean, had to turn onto a forest road to avoid a lot of fallen trees then took another track marked "open hill access". Happy as long as I was going uphill. A faint path went off to the right alongside a stream, it was marked with white tape, checked the map and it looked ok and should cut out some of the forest road switchbacks. After a few minutes I came out of the trees and onto the hill side, picked my way up beside the stream over lumps and bumps, climbed a deer fence and eventually onto the ridge. A path picked its way along the ridge, I missed a turn and soon onto steep slopes surrounded by snow patches. Worked my way back on to the path on the top of the ridge, Ben More's summit looming out the cloud ahead. Near the top a Ptarmigan ran across the path, probably leading me away from its nest, followed trying to get a picture, they only let you get so close.

Now on the last steep climb to Ben More's rocky summit, the path disappears in the snow, tried to go round on a boulder field below the snow, didn't work, then tried to go above through small crags, decided it wasn't to be and turned back, leaving the route for another day. Ran back down the Sron nam Forsairean ridge to the forest. No real path or track through the forest but found more white tape leading me a fairly direct route through the trees and across forest roads back to the tracks I started from. 2 hours up, 1 hour down. A few pictures here.

Ben Lomond

Cracker of a day for this years race. After a bus trip from Rowardennan around 150 set off from the Rowardennan Hotel for the trudge to the top and back. Warm on the lower slopes as the path clambers through the trees. Out of the trees, jogging and walking as the gradient changes. Sent off path up grassy slopes before the plateau, different line this year, we were taken 100 yards further left. Onto the plateau and running again, the leaders coming down a bit sooner than I would have liked. A change to the top section this year, stay on the zig zag path onto the shoulder following the path along to the top in a slow 75 mins. On the way back we are sent down steep grassy slopes half way along the shoulder, easier than I thought it would be, not as steep as it is going up. On the run down the plateau keep going and try to catch those in front. Catch a few down the grassy bank. A short path section then off on the other side down pathless mucky rocky hillside. Back to the path and I have to force it to keep the pace up. Good fun over the lower rocky sections where I manage to catch and pass a few more tentative runners. The dreaded run along the road to the finish, nip past a Westie in the finish funnel, after a slow 35 mins descent. Enjoyed the race but not my time. Soup and rolls and a seat in the sun watching the speedsters get their prizes. Pictures here , here and here as well.

Midweek Races

Ran the Club 10k race on Tuesday and felt as if I was running on someone else's wibbly wobbly legs, the race started and finished at Balloch Castle and followed the old Polaroid 10k route. Within a couple of hundred yards I new it wasn't going to be fast. I settled into a steady pace and watched the rest of my start group go off into the distance. It was Luss Road before I caught and passed anyone else. Felt good on the short downhill stretch into Lomond Shores then slowed down again on the flat run through the complex. Eased up the hill into the Park to finish just over 54 mins.

Last night was Dumyat hill race, 5 miles and 1200', I wasn't looking forward to it after Tuesday's struggle. Arrived just in time to register for the 7 pm start, big field again, turned out to be about 380 runners. No time or desire to warm up before we were off and running. Road and farm track to start, gently climbing, felt ok, legs much better off than last night, I felt I could run again. The track soon undulates up through the forest with a few bottlenecks where everyone queued and I could gasp a few extra breaths. Onto the open hill and ran where I could, the leaders start to come back down sooner than I hoped. Avoid the worst of the bog then a last push for the top. Start the run down freewheeling until I gain some sort of breathing control pushing hard on the downs but unable to keep it going on the short flats in between. Reach the bottom for the run back along the track to the Uni, slight uphill at first and loose a few places, able to relax for the closing few hundred yards as they are downhill, accelerate through the finish in 53:24.

Stuc A Chroin

My 9th Stuc, roller coaster of a race, you come out feeling like you've spent a few hours in a washing machine. Not at my best just now and thought I should give it a miss, decided to go and set a target of sub 4 hours instead of aiming for 3 1/2. Ran steady along the first two easy miles on forest tracks.

The run across the moor to Glen Ample

Onto the hill and a rough run across the moor past Meall Mor before the drop into Glen Ample for the climb up Beinn Each.

Beinn Each across Glen Ample

A bit steep, hands on knees, the ground, pulling on the heather, anything to get me up there. Tried to keep it steady as there is a bit to go after this.

The ridge to the Stuc from Beinn Each's summit

Drop a few hundred feet off the side onto the 2 miles of lumpy ridge to the Stuc, the leading runners bomb past on their way back once I'm past the crossover. I reach the top in 2 hours 18. Steady run back along the ridge, try to save something for the climb out Glen Ample. At the crossover we're sent off down into Glen Ample, straight down at first then a traversing descent along the glen to the path for the exit climb. Struggling now usually I can gain a few places here, concentrating on not stopping seems to be a good idea. Drink some high5 electrolyte stuff to try to avoid cramping on the next climb. Cross the track and start up the other side of Glen Ample, boggy at first then dries out the higher you get, cramp starts then eases, maybe its worked. About 4 miles left, two across the moor then two back along  the forest track. The three runners ahead drift away across the moor, unable to catch them I try to maintain the effort and not lose any places. Glad to reach the forest and soon pop out on the track after 3 hours 34 only two miles left, the first slightly uphill in 10 minutes takes its toll, the last mile, downhill, takes 12 minutes, still I finished inside my target in 3 hours 56. Contrasting route today, moor and valleys a bit boggy but the ridges and tops dry and sair feet stoney. Lots of marshalls out as usual, water chocolate and jelly babies and encouragement in their usual quantities. Pictures here (view last to first), and here.