Club handicap race today, just over 10 miles of undulations. For a road race its a good route, from the Leisure Centre up to & through Balloch picking up the road to Gartocharn for a short while before turning onto the Horseshoe at Ballagan. Arriving back in the Vale down Auchencarroch road, along to Bonhill Bridge & back to the club via Davie Graham's garage.
Good turnout today, 21 runners including 7 guests. The first leaving at 9:00, a bright & breezy morning meant the usual headwind on the way back into the Vale. Late night last night so didn't know what to expect, tried to start at 8-8 1/2 min miles and pick it up as I felt, as usual too fast for the 1st mile in 7 mins, should have brought my Heart Rate Monitor.
Relaxed going through Balloch and kept it steady until almost half way when caught by the first runner behind, tucked in for a mile or two then dropped back. Picked it up again on the last mile down Auchencarroch before slowing again towards Bonhill bridge. Pleased to come in just under 80 mins.
Coffee and cakes in the car park after, breezy but good.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Pappert Well Sun 5th Oct
Woke up to clear crisp windless morning, perfect. Set off at 8 for the Pappert Well with Jim R, lovely run where within a few minutes of leaving the Vale it seems you are smiles from anywhere.
Tried a new route onto the hill on the opposite side of the gulley climbing up with frost still on the ground where the sun hadn't reached. Picked up the pink path just before it enters the trees and ran up avoiding all but one of the icy puddles. The peace and quiet through the forrest emphasised by our echoing voices.
Views for ever from the trig point, North to Ben Lomond & the Arrochar Alps and South West to Goat Fell over 35 miles away peaking out over the moors behind Port Glasgow.
New route off the hill as well, straight down the ridge from the Trig point, good fun on a narrow trod with a steeper descent than the usual path. The path winds its way through the trees and re-joins the pink path not far from the usual access path. Ran back the normal route until the style where we took a right into a field and traversed towards a feint ridge. Followed the ridge to a small copse of trees surrounding the remains of an old house, fantastic views from here as the hill drops away steeply.
A rough farm track runs down the hill from the trees, steepens again for the last field and made for a good run back down to the Vale. Stopped for a chat with big Pete as he went for his morning papers before the jog back home.
Tried a new route onto the hill on the opposite side of the gulley climbing up with frost still on the ground where the sun hadn't reached. Picked up the pink path just before it enters the trees and ran up avoiding all but one of the icy puddles. The peace and quiet through the forrest emphasised by our echoing voices.
Views for ever from the trig point, North to Ben Lomond & the Arrochar Alps and South West to Goat Fell over 35 miles away peaking out over the moors behind Port Glasgow.
New route off the hill as well, straight down the ridge from the Trig point, good fun on a narrow trod with a steeper descent than the usual path. The path winds its way through the trees and re-joins the pink path not far from the usual access path. Ran back the normal route until the style where we took a right into a field and traversed towards a feint ridge. Followed the ridge to a small copse of trees surrounding the remains of an old house, fantastic views from here as the hill drops away steeply.
A rough farm track runs down the hill from the trees, steepens again for the last field and made for a good run back down to the Vale. Stopped for a chat with big Pete as he went for his morning papers before the jog back home.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Whinney Hill Mon 29th Sept
Frustration kicking in at the lack of running for the last month or so & decided to go for a nice easy run from home to Balloch with a run round the park & if all goes well round the Whinney Hill loop as well.
Kept the heart rate down all the way & reached the top of Heart attack hill in 30 mins without any problems so off I went on the WH route. Road shoes helped to keep the run easy as WH nice and soft. Arrived at the viewpoint in 17 mins and stopped for a minute taking in the views to Glens Finlas & Luss. Took it nice & easy and arrived back in Balloch Park in 15 mins.
Jog through the park down hill all the way, shortcut through the station and across Argyle & Christie Parks with a wee bit of road in between. Back home in 94 mins overall.
Kept the heart rate down all the way & reached the top of Heart attack hill in 30 mins without any problems so off I went on the WH route. Road shoes helped to keep the run easy as WH nice and soft. Arrived at the viewpoint in 17 mins and stopped for a minute taking in the views to Glens Finlas & Luss. Took it nice & easy and arrived back in Balloch Park in 15 mins.
Jog through the park down hill all the way, shortcut through the station and across Argyle & Christie Parks with a wee bit of road in between. Back home in 94 mins overall.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Ben Nevis Sat 6th Sept
One of my favourite races, up and down Ben Nevis, my 3rd and final target race for 2008. This years event was included in the Buff Skyrunner series . As a result numbers slightly increased with 20 or so overseas runners taking part.
Weather forecast was not good but it turned out to be a fine weekend, bright, cool and only the last few hundred feet in cloud, so good views when you had the time to look.
A couple of good runs recently on the LOF & Luss but didn't feel great in the run up to the race. Set off slightly further back than usual and reached the roads end in about 9 mins, nearer 8 would be good. Steady trundle up the tourist path, felt ok and took a new short cut which seemed better than previous, not too steep and much better footing. Being slightly further back meant it was easier to pass people and kept it steady round the windy corner towards the Red Burn Gully and the Mountain started to bite a bit more than it should.
The picture tells its own story, usually keep that face for near the summit.
Realised it wasn't to be a fast year as a few more people passed on the way round to the Red Burn crossing at half way in just under 57 mins.
The second half starts more or less straight up leaving the tourist path zig zags through rock, scree and a maze of small paths. Its here the leaders come flying back down, not only do you have to drag your self up but avoid human bombs on their way down.
Another 1000' or so feet and the slope starts to ease in places and you can pick up the pace, not too fast so you can have the odd glance at the fantastic views all round, lots of runners coming down really fast now. The nearer the top the flatter it gets so running again but very rocky so your feet take a pounding. Past scary drops at the top, just under 56 mins for the second half, 13 mins slower to the top than previous races.
Hand in your tag and turn for the descent, gloves on. The first few hundred yards are rocky but gets progressively more runnable for a few minutes until steep begins to kick in.
Here you run as fast as you dare, full concentration, arms flailing and a wary eye out for other runners. I try not to get behind them as you can't see what's coming and it slows you down. Stay a few feet back and pick a slightly different line and your moment to accelerate past. No idea how long this section takes probably about 15 or 20 mins when you arrive back where you left the path on the way up at the Red Burn.
Route change here, straight down the Grassy bank, an 800' quad bashing, calf cramping near vertical slither. Key is to stay relaxed, ankles, knees, hips, shoulders and keep those arms flailing for any balance you can get.
Route choice important here as well, I try to pick a line taking in any scree as I can go a bit quicker on the stoney sludge.
At the bottom of the Grassy Bank you're back on the tourist path, a tough section where you want to go faster than the man made stone steps allow. Nearly missed the first short cut, luckily a hill walker pointed it out. Further down picked my new 2nd short cut and passed about 7 or 8 runners without really trying.
Steady push on down the rocky path, running getting easier as it levells out towards the bottom. Reached the road for the last mile and legs turn to jelly. Coast the downs and baby steps on the ups on this cruel section.
A lap round the park and a sprint finish (so fast the photographer only caught my heel) to avoid being overtaken for a 54 minute descent and 2:46 and bits overall.
Above pictures courtesy of Borrowdale Fell Runners and Carnegie Harriers .
Weather forecast was not good but it turned out to be a fine weekend, bright, cool and only the last few hundred feet in cloud, so good views when you had the time to look.
A couple of good runs recently on the LOF & Luss but didn't feel great in the run up to the race. Set off slightly further back than usual and reached the roads end in about 9 mins, nearer 8 would be good. Steady trundle up the tourist path, felt ok and took a new short cut which seemed better than previous, not too steep and much better footing. Being slightly further back meant it was easier to pass people and kept it steady round the windy corner towards the Red Burn Gully and the Mountain started to bite a bit more than it should.
The picture tells its own story, usually keep that face for near the summit.
Realised it wasn't to be a fast year as a few more people passed on the way round to the Red Burn crossing at half way in just under 57 mins.
The second half starts more or less straight up leaving the tourist path zig zags through rock, scree and a maze of small paths. Its here the leaders come flying back down, not only do you have to drag your self up but avoid human bombs on their way down.
Another 1000' or so feet and the slope starts to ease in places and you can pick up the pace, not too fast so you can have the odd glance at the fantastic views all round, lots of runners coming down really fast now. The nearer the top the flatter it gets so running again but very rocky so your feet take a pounding. Past scary drops at the top, just under 56 mins for the second half, 13 mins slower to the top than previous races.
Hand in your tag and turn for the descent, gloves on. The first few hundred yards are rocky but gets progressively more runnable for a few minutes until steep begins to kick in.
Here you run as fast as you dare, full concentration, arms flailing and a wary eye out for other runners. I try not to get behind them as you can't see what's coming and it slows you down. Stay a few feet back and pick a slightly different line and your moment to accelerate past. No idea how long this section takes probably about 15 or 20 mins when you arrive back where you left the path on the way up at the Red Burn. Route change here, straight down the Grassy bank, an 800' quad bashing, calf cramping near vertical slither. Key is to stay relaxed, ankles, knees, hips, shoulders and keep those arms flailing for any balance you can get.
Route choice important here as well, I try to pick a line taking in any scree as I can go a bit quicker on the stoney sludge.At the bottom of the Grassy Bank you're back on the tourist path, a tough section where you want to go faster than the man made stone steps allow. Nearly missed the first short cut, luckily a hill walker pointed it out. Further down picked my new 2nd short cut and passed about 7 or 8 runners without really trying.
Steady push on down the rocky path, running getting easier as it levells out towards the bottom. Reached the road for the last mile and legs turn to jelly. Coast the downs and baby steps on the ups on this cruel section.
A lap round the park and a sprint finish (so fast the photographer only caught my heel) to avoid being overtaken for a 54 minute descent and 2:46 and bits overall.
Above pictures courtesy of Borrowdale Fell Runners and Carnegie Harriers .
Monday, August 25, 2008
Luss hills Sun 24th Aug
Mid afternoon start for this 9 mile 3700 foa run in the Luss hills. Views to the South & West looked clear, to the North dark clouds obscuring much of the views.
Usual breezy ascent up Beinn Dubh @ 642M in just under 45 mins. Kept to the path along the broad ridge to the un-named top (657m) in about 18 mins and another 18 mins down Mid hill to Glenmollochan farm. 20 minute climb up Coille-eughain hill (449M) through shoulder high Thistles followed by a 20 minute run down over the Paps and back to the car at the bottom of the glen.
Tried a couple of route changes on the way down, one worked, one didn't through thick Ferns and Thistles. Finished in a few seconds over 2 hrs 30 mins.
Would have been a minute or so quicker but had to have a wash in the river after ploughing through thigh deep mud in the fields below the Paps - didn't smell like mud.
Couple of pictures in the Galleria.
Usual breezy ascent up Beinn Dubh @ 642M in just under 45 mins. Kept to the path along the broad ridge to the un-named top (657m) in about 18 mins and another 18 mins down Mid hill to Glenmollochan farm. 20 minute climb up Coille-eughain hill (449M) through shoulder high Thistles followed by a 20 minute run down over the Paps and back to the car at the bottom of the glen.
Tried a couple of route changes on the way down, one worked, one didn't through thick Ferns and Thistles. Finished in a few seconds over 2 hrs 30 mins.
Would have been a minute or so quicker but had to have a wash in the river after ploughing through thigh deep mud in the fields below the Paps - didn't smell like mud.
Couple of pictures in the Galleria.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Lomonds of Fife 17th Aug
It is 11 miles & 3300' of ascent to complete this hill race which covers West Lomond (twice) and East Lomond, forrest tracks, trails and woodland paths with 2 water stations - only one really as you pass it twice, four checkpoints with coloured pens to mark your number and prove you've been there.
Last year this was a championship counter & returned this year as it seemed a good warm up race in the quest for Nevis in three weeks.
From race registration in Strathmiglo village hall it is a two mile walk to the start as this year the surrounding fields/car parks are all under crops. In the end managed to get a lift both ways saving the walk/warm up/cool down.
Race starts in a field close to the Bunnet Stane climbing West Lomond behind, about turn at the top and descend half way down to Checkpoint 1 then contour round towards East Lomond gradually losing height but keep to the sheep tracks if possible to help maintain the pace. After a mile or so of contouring descent you pick up an undualting forrest road for a couple of miles before turning up a narrow trod zig zagging up to CP2 at Maidens Castle.
From Maidens the route picks up forrest roads, tracks and fire breaks as it climbs back up the hill side then a steady run up towards East Lomond & CP3, the last 1/4 mile a plod as it is pretty steep. From here you can see most of the run back to West Lomond apart from the detour to CP4 at what appears to be a large grassy hill, we are told "fort".
From the fort a short slog to regain the track as it gradually climbs up towards West Lomond, again the last 1/4 mile pretty steep.
From West Lomond the fun starts as you go past the trig point, gloves on, then pick up speed on the smooth broad grassy path, ok for a few minutes until you cross a fence for the bumslide , wet grass this year meant you could slide all the way down, had been chasing the runner in front without much luck but managed to catch him as he tried to run down instead of slide, well worth the price of two thistle skelfs.
From the descent gully you run through three fields back to the finish, caught by the guy behind but tucked in and picked him off on the last up through the field to the finish. Finished in just under 2 hours 20 mins an improvement of 20 odd seconds from last year.
A good medium race to try with the the 3300' of ascent split into four which gives you a chance to recover but the undulating paths and tracks are a good test of pacing, get it wrong and you suffer.
Race organised by Lomond Hill Runners with usual Fife post race tea and goody bag with edible contents!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Lossiemouth Aug 08
Sun 3rd to Wed 13th for the annual camping holiday at Silver Sands, Covesea, Lossiemouth. The 2-3 mile long beach great for running but over the years I've noticed running on sand is very tiring and also suffered from sore quads the week after so now I take most runs easy with no real problems.
One lap every day or two and a doubler at the weekend, some hill reps and a tempo run thrown in for fun and each run followed with a swim / body surf in the waves.
Andrews birthday as usual so another camp birthday with party games....pass the parcel, statues etc until they reminded us they were 14 not 4!
Camp show also being disrupted as the children are "too old" and most slots now filled with adults.
Visit to Duffus Castle is a favourite, nice and peaceful and with enough features and info to give a good insight into how they lived, ok if you are the Lord!Watched the Elgin / Dumbarton league match on Saturday, the Sons getting a draw for their travelling Apache supporters. Weather good with the usual Moray Firth dry/cloud free bubble giving great views of the meteor shower and no real wind for a change either.
Some more photos in the Galleria.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Luss Highland Games Sun 27th July
Scorcher of a day for the annual Highland Gathering in Luss, big schedule of Heavy, Athletic and Cycling events. Two Hill races, one for locals and one for anyone. Entered both as they are relatively short at about 2 & 3 miles, the local race goes half way up & back to the games field the open race goes to the top & back.
6 of us in the local race, a 7th joined in as we started but he was an imposter from the Stirling area. Reached the turning point in 6th place but the imposter got lost on the way down so finished 5th in a new pb of 19:31.
14 of us in the open race, went from 12th to 13th on the climb heat taking its toll. Picked off one on the descent but couldn't see anyone else in front eventually finishing in a slow 35:32 but had gained another 3 or so places to finish about 9th as a few more got lost.
Altough a small event some v good runners taking part in both races, the open event was won by the current Scottish Champion. Watched some of the other events for a while but had to leave as the bar began to look too inviting.
6 of us in the local race, a 7th joined in as we started but he was an imposter from the Stirling area. Reached the turning point in 6th place but the imposter got lost on the way down so finished 5th in a new pb of 19:31.
14 of us in the open race, went from 12th to 13th on the climb heat taking its toll. Picked off one on the descent but couldn't see anyone else in front eventually finishing in a slow 35:32 but had gained another 3 or so places to finish about 9th as a few more got lost.
Altough a small event some v good runners taking part in both races, the open event was won by the current Scottish Champion. Watched some of the other events for a while but had to leave as the bar began to look too inviting.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Rosneath Highland Games, Sun 20th July
Having missed the Mull Monsterette yesterday drove to Roseneath after a late night in bar51 for the Parreman Hill Race, a return to the race where I first won money as a runner. About 15 or so started, 7 runners and the rest kids, hopefully the kids would be slower than last year.
Set off with 1 1/2 laps round the track, an extra half lap! Left the games field on the first climb, soon passing the kids. Went from 5th to 2nd as those in front took a slight detour even though the course was marked. Route goes through a delightful cows field taking in the most gloopy bits in true Milburn fashion. From the field its onto a forrest track which winds its way up to the top, back in 5th by the top and then had to re-direct the first 2 onto the correct route.
The run back starts off in what is basically a ditch for the first few hundred yards and your rate of progress depends if you choose the right side, i.e. whether you walk or run, how many times you fall, how much skin exfoliates on the dry stane dyke. As this was my third time you would think I would have learnt!
Out the ditch and back onto the forrest track, not steep enough to catch the guy in front before the gloopy field, then didn't pick the best line through field and only started to catch him on the last steep descent, too short to make up the distance and finished about 50 yards behind in 29:21 for 5th place & £8. Not too bad as only 7 seconds slower than last year but with 1/2 a lap extra.
Lovely sunny, breezy day spent watching hammers, stones, haybales and the like being thrown about, Highland games seem much better when you participate.
Set off with 1 1/2 laps round the track, an extra half lap! Left the games field on the first climb, soon passing the kids. Went from 5th to 2nd as those in front took a slight detour even though the course was marked. Route goes through a delightful cows field taking in the most gloopy bits in true Milburn fashion. From the field its onto a forrest track which winds its way up to the top, back in 5th by the top and then had to re-direct the first 2 onto the correct route.
The run back starts off in what is basically a ditch for the first few hundred yards and your rate of progress depends if you choose the right side, i.e. whether you walk or run, how many times you fall, how much skin exfoliates on the dry stane dyke. As this was my third time you would think I would have learnt!
Out the ditch and back onto the forrest track, not steep enough to catch the guy in front before the gloopy field, then didn't pick the best line through field and only started to catch him on the last steep descent, too short to make up the distance and finished about 50 yards behind in 29:21 for 5th place & £8. Not too bad as only 7 seconds slower than last year but with 1/2 a lap extra.
Lovely sunny, breezy day spent watching hammers, stones, haybales and the like being thrown about, Highland games seem much better when you participate.
Ted Baker Thurs 17th July
6th running of this race, good turn out of 18 runners on a sunny night. Usual staggered start to try to bring everyone home at the same time. Lollipop route, start & finish on the same route with a loop at the top.
Took it steady on the way out staying out of oxygen debt, one runner from our group going ahead on the run through the woods beside the stream. Started to pass runners on the pink path. Kept the effort even and pushed the pace once past the trig point until back in the woods where the slightly steeper downhill lends itself to a bit of a sprint, pop out at the side of Pappert, closing one runner down but never close enough to worry him.
Finished in 44 mins plus much the same as last year but 2 mins outside my best time.
Took it steady on the way out staying out of oxygen debt, one runner from our group going ahead on the run through the woods beside the stream. Started to pass runners on the pink path. Kept the effort even and pushed the pace once past the trig point until back in the woods where the slightly steeper downhill lends itself to a bit of a sprint, pop out at the side of Pappert, closing one runner down but never close enough to worry him.
Finished in 44 mins plus much the same as last year but 2 mins outside my best time.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
WHW Sat 12th July
After races the last 2 weekends returned to the WHW torture chamber for a 20 mile recovery run. Starting at Drymen set out towards Balmaha and a few miles beyond, target Cashel and then back. About 3800' of ascent.
Set off at an easy pace about 12 min miles or 4 hours, slowed on the up hills and turned in 2 hrs 12. Slower on the way back 2:29 for a 4:41:06 total.
Walked a lot of the uphills and cruised down Conic, not too fast as only had road shoes on, just let gravity do its job. Nice run in perfect running conditions, but about 5 miles too far, preferrence would have been under 4 hours.
Set off at an easy pace about 12 min miles or 4 hours, slowed on the up hills and turned in 2 hrs 12. Slower on the way back 2:29 for a 4:41:06 total.
Walked a lot of the uphills and cruised down Conic, not too fast as only had road shoes on, just let gravity do its job. Nice run in perfect running conditions, but about 5 miles too far, preferrence would have been under 4 hours.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Dollar Hill Race Sat 5th July
The race covers 7 hill tops, about 10 miles & 3000' of ascent and starts and finishes in front of the Cricket pavillion at Dollar Academy. Access to the hills is via Dollar Glen with the aptly named Burn of Sorrow to cross before the main climb onto the moor.
Struggled on the initial climb up Saddle Hill to the top of Whitewisp. Once over Whitewisp able to pick up the pace along an easy undulating track to Tarmangie then a blip called Skythorn Hill. A short climb up to Andrew Gannel is followed by a short down and up to the last real hill called King Seat. From here its mainly down hill towards Dollar via another blip called Bank Hill. You then re-join the outward route to cross a happier Burn of Sorrow.
A quick jog through the park, back along the road to Dollar Academy and finish in front of the Cricket Pavillion.
All very civilised with changing and showers followed by tea and home made cakes. A good hill race with plenty of running and no rocky or exposed sections. Found the climbs tough again but was able to pick up the pace elsewhere, surprised to finish in just under 1:55, only 3 mins slower than 2 years ago.
Struggled on the initial climb up Saddle Hill to the top of Whitewisp. Once over Whitewisp able to pick up the pace along an easy undulating track to Tarmangie then a blip called Skythorn Hill. A short climb up to Andrew Gannel is followed by a short down and up to the last real hill called King Seat. From here its mainly down hill towards Dollar via another blip called Bank Hill. You then re-join the outward route to cross a happier Burn of Sorrow.
A quick jog through the park, back along the road to Dollar Academy and finish in front of the Cricket Pavillion.
All very civilised with changing and showers followed by tea and home made cakes. A good hill race with plenty of running and no rocky or exposed sections. Found the climbs tough again but was able to pick up the pace elsewhere, surprised to finish in just under 1:55, only 3 mins slower than 2 years ago.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Arrochar Alps Sat 28th June
2nd year in a row for this challenging wee "half marathon", 13 or so miles with about 8000' of ascent and descent. Starts and finishes near the entrance to Glen Loin and spins you round Ben Vorlich & Vane, Beinn Ime & Narnain. Thankfully the main climbs get progressively smaller as you go round, 2500', 2000', 1700', 800'. Each followed by a steep descent of 2000', 1500', 1000' and finishing with a fun 3000' in a couple of miles down Beinn Narnain, and a bit of local knowledge does help. Two cut offs in this years race, 2 hours to Sloy Dam and 3 1/2 hours to Lag Uaine between Vane & Ime.
Field of 44 brave souls, about the same as last year, set off on an easy jog. The field gradually stringing out into single file up Glen Loin. Got to the bottom of Vorlich in 40 minutes for a steady plod up the tourist path, reached the top in another 57 mins leaving only 23 to get to the Sloy dam via the straight down route, took 24 mins but the kind?? marshalls waved us through with a couple of jelly beans.
For some reason it started to get really hard and struggled to the top of Vane in 73 mins leaving it tight to get to Lag Uaine before the time out. On the way down I cut the corner too early and lost about 3 mins scrambling and sliding down bits that were too steep to run. Feeling a bit sorry by this time and ready to chuck it in, but after a chat with the marshall it was all go again.
The climb up Beinn Ime breaks into 2 sections, the first a 900' slog up trackless tussocky ground to the Bealach a Mhaim, a wee seat here before the shorter climb to the summit, steeper but easier going with paths to follow and views opening out as you get nearer the top.
Got lost running off Beinn Ime in the mist last year losing about 15 mins, so I had my bearing prepared (165 deg) in case and just in time the mist closed in again. Bearing worked pretty well taking me down in 17 mins and within sight of the checkpoint Marshalls.
Last climb up Narnain and through a brief break in the clouds spotted the runner in front who I had swapped places with a few times already, he had overtaken me on the climb up Vane, I got ahead on the way down, he overtook me again going up Ime, it was something to work towards. After the previous climbs Narnain is relatively painless apart from the false summits. Reached the top in last place.
Set off off through the Spearhead for the 3000' plummet down to Sucouth, from the top it's a steep scrambly path and soon came across a couple of runners, he had suffered badly and they were walking in to the finish. After a wee chat to see how they were, and after all offers of food, clothes & drink were refused set off in pursuit of the dayglo Carnegie Harrier in front. Soon caught him and he shouted encouragement as I passed by.
Pleased to finish in just over 6 hrs 23 mins, about 25 mins slower than last year. Puzzling splits, all climbs slower, most descents faster. Don't think a couple of runs in Arrochar at the end of May and then a run in the Luss hills was good enough prep.
Super wee race, hopefully with a few more entrants in future.
Field of 44 brave souls, about the same as last year, set off on an easy jog. The field gradually stringing out into single file up Glen Loin. Got to the bottom of Vorlich in 40 minutes for a steady plod up the tourist path, reached the top in another 57 mins leaving only 23 to get to the Sloy dam via the straight down route, took 24 mins but the kind?? marshalls waved us through with a couple of jelly beans.
For some reason it started to get really hard and struggled to the top of Vane in 73 mins leaving it tight to get to Lag Uaine before the time out. On the way down I cut the corner too early and lost about 3 mins scrambling and sliding down bits that were too steep to run. Feeling a bit sorry by this time and ready to chuck it in, but after a chat with the marshall it was all go again.
The climb up Beinn Ime breaks into 2 sections, the first a 900' slog up trackless tussocky ground to the Bealach a Mhaim, a wee seat here before the shorter climb to the summit, steeper but easier going with paths to follow and views opening out as you get nearer the top.
Got lost running off Beinn Ime in the mist last year losing about 15 mins, so I had my bearing prepared (165 deg) in case and just in time the mist closed in again. Bearing worked pretty well taking me down in 17 mins and within sight of the checkpoint Marshalls.
Last climb up Narnain and through a brief break in the clouds spotted the runner in front who I had swapped places with a few times already, he had overtaken me on the climb up Vane, I got ahead on the way down, he overtook me again going up Ime, it was something to work towards. After the previous climbs Narnain is relatively painless apart from the false summits. Reached the top in last place.
Set off off through the Spearhead for the 3000' plummet down to Sucouth, from the top it's a steep scrambly path and soon came across a couple of runners, he had suffered badly and they were walking in to the finish. After a wee chat to see how they were, and after all offers of food, clothes & drink were refused set off in pursuit of the dayglo Carnegie Harrier in front. Soon caught him and he shouted encouragement as I passed by.
Pleased to finish in just over 6 hrs 23 mins, about 25 mins slower than last year. Puzzling splits, all climbs slower, most descents faster. Don't think a couple of runs in Arrochar at the end of May and then a run in the Luss hills was good enough prep.
Super wee race, hopefully with a few more entrants in future.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Pappert Well Sun 22nd June
Chose a short long run for the week before the return to the Arrochar Alps race next Saturday. Despite being just behind the Vale you still get a sense of away from it all and good views as well.
Thoughts this weekend were with JR and his WHW exploits with regular updates by text and on the club website yesterday and through the night as he ran ever closer to his 12th completion. Gave him some encouragement from the Trig point and found out he had made it when I got home, great stuff.
Ran the reverse race route just for a change, some nice muddy bits, even more fun than usual.
Only problem was being Tagged by Davie last week which means I have got some thinking to do, sometime soon.
Thoughts this weekend were with JR and his WHW exploits with regular updates by text and on the club website yesterday and through the night as he ran ever closer to his 12th completion. Gave him some encouragement from the Trig point and found out he had made it when I got home, great stuff.
Ran the reverse race route just for a change, some nice muddy bits, even more fun than usual.
Only problem was being Tagged by Davie last week which means I have got some thinking to do, sometime soon.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Ben Sheann Wed 18th June
Short sharp Bog & Burn race, 2 1/2 miles with 1400' of ascent. A bit of a contrast to Jim R's WHW this weekend - good luck Jim, we are all with you on this one. The race starts at the back of Strathyre with a 1 mile 1400' ascent through a forrest, you pop out the trees for the last 100 yards or so before dropping down a rough path at the back of the hill in an anticlockwise loop back into the forrest to join the outward track to the finish.
The uphill is un runnable for all but a few, then you gasp to catch your breath on the way down hopefully recovering some composure for the sprint back through the forrest trail covered in pine needles over mud, big trees and steep drops all round although you don't notice them as you avoid the roots and rocks which appear from nowhere as you run as fast as you dare.
Great views of Loch Lubnaig from the top and surpisingly few of the infamous Strathyre midgies - the small ones have hobnailed boots. Only had to grab one tree for safety and finished this cracking wee race in 37 1/2 minutes.
The uphill is un runnable for all but a few, then you gasp to catch your breath on the way down hopefully recovering some composure for the sprint back through the forrest trail covered in pine needles over mud, big trees and steep drops all round although you don't notice them as you avoid the roots and rocks which appear from nowhere as you run as fast as you dare.
Great views of Loch Lubnaig from the top and surpisingly few of the infamous Strathyre midgies - the small ones have hobnailed boots. Only had to grab one tree for safety and finished this cracking wee race in 37 1/2 minutes.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Ben Lomond Sun 15th June
Missed Durisdeer on Saturday due to car problems, had sent it to convalesce in a garage to no avail. So with Arrochar Alps looming in a couple of weeks went for an easy option on Sunday, Ben Lomond.
Ascent via tourist path, descent via Ptarmigan. First time I had run down the Pt. route for 30 or so years (ouch). Nice and steady on the way up, sunny spells with a cool breeze, just about perfect for running. Passed the remains of a small fire near the top, still warm from the previous night.
After the initial steep drop off the back of Ben L a steady undualting run back to the car park. Good running apart from the narrow path on the lower slopes which meant stop start to pass a few hill walkers. Finished in just under 2 hours 15 then lunch & a Blanc in the Rowardennan Hotel before the drive home.
Ascent via tourist path, descent via Ptarmigan. First time I had run down the Pt. route for 30 or so years (ouch). Nice and steady on the way up, sunny spells with a cool breeze, just about perfect for running. Passed the remains of a small fire near the top, still warm from the previous night.
After the initial steep drop off the back of Ben L a steady undualting run back to the car park. Good running apart from the narrow path on the lower slopes which meant stop start to pass a few hill walkers. Finished in just under 2 hours 15 then lunch & a Blanc in the Rowardennan Hotel before the drive home.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Cort Ma Law 11th June
Fine night for this bog and burn race, 6 miles & 1700' of ascent, starting above Lennoxtown at Jamie Wright's Well with a steep climb to the Lairs then an undulating run to Cort Ma Law and on to Lecket Hill, a sharp descent into a gully with the climb back out taking you to join the outward route.
Dry conditions meant only sporadic marshes to pick your way through and managed to stay on top of the floating green mush. Only came a cropper when straying too far from the path? into the gulley and found a ditch to lie down in for a second or two just after flying past 3 or 4 runners, they kept to the path but didn't catch me!
Steady plod out the gulley over tussock and muck but managed to pick up the pace after rejoining the outward track. Couldn't quite catch the runner in front but managed to keep the guy behind at bay with a good run in to finish in 62 1/2 mins, PB by 2 mins.
Dry conditions meant only sporadic marshes to pick your way through and managed to stay on top of the floating green mush. Only came a cropper when straying too far from the path? into the gulley and found a ditch to lie down in for a second or two just after flying past 3 or 4 runners, they kept to the path but didn't catch me!
Steady plod out the gulley over tussock and muck but managed to pick up the pace after rejoining the outward track. Couldn't quite catch the runner in front but managed to keep the guy behind at bay with a good run in to finish in 62 1/2 mins, PB by 2 mins.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Luss Sun 8th June
With low cloud forecast to start the day & having been to Arrochar the last 2 weeks decided to try a longer than usual Luss Horseshoe, starting up Beinn Dubh and running anti clockwise and avoiding the Glen road after Beinn Eich by going via the hills on the South side of the Glen, about 13 miles and 6000' of ascent.
The 2000' climb up Beinn Dubh was wet and windy as you went into the clouds, the run round the 2 corries dropping just enough to skim under the cloud but still wet and windy. Clouds lifted as forecast during the 1300' plunge over rough ground to Sith Mor revealing the ridge run for the return leg reached by a 1700' foot climb up Doune Hill at 2400' the highest point of the run.
The clouds began to break up on the pleasant undulating run off Doune Hill over Beinn Lochain to the short sharp 500' climb up Beinn Eich, from here it is a 2000'+ descent within 1 1/2 miles back down to Glen Luss at Edentaggart farm.
Now in brilliant sunshine & instead of the usual trudge back down the Glen crossed the road for the 1000'+ climb up Coille-eughain Hill which gives a nice run down towards Loch Lomond through fields and farm tracks. Finished in a steady 4 hrs 29 mins. A couple of pictures in the Galleria taken from Coille-eughain Hill.
The 2000' climb up Beinn Dubh was wet and windy as you went into the clouds, the run round the 2 corries dropping just enough to skim under the cloud but still wet and windy. Clouds lifted as forecast during the 1300' plunge over rough ground to Sith Mor revealing the ridge run for the return leg reached by a 1700' foot climb up Doune Hill at 2400' the highest point of the run.
The clouds began to break up on the pleasant undulating run off Doune Hill over Beinn Lochain to the short sharp 500' climb up Beinn Eich, from here it is a 2000'+ descent within 1 1/2 miles back down to Glen Luss at Edentaggart farm.
Now in brilliant sunshine & instead of the usual trudge back down the Glen crossed the road for the 1000'+ climb up Coille-eughain Hill which gives a nice run down towards Loch Lomond through fields and farm tracks. Finished in a steady 4 hrs 29 mins. A couple of pictures in the Galleria taken from Coille-eughain Hill.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Kilpatrick Hill Race Wed 4th June
Big field of 94 runners for this years OK Hill Race, 6 miles & 1400' of ascent, mixture of terrain...road, field, path, sheep track, a few rocky bits but not too many boggy bits this year. Course well marked and marshalled by Westies & MRT.
Decided to have a go at a better time this year, only under the hour once & that was in 2004, other years about 62 to 65 mins. Half mile of road to start, gradual uphill before a steep haul zig zagging up the crags. Running again once on top and over the moor, join the farm track past Loch Humphrey before another trudge through moorland, a bit of effort required to keep running.
The route continues in a clockwise loop on a rough path?? along the side of Greenside reservoir before the short sharp climb up to the trig point at the top of the Slacks in 49 1/2 mins. About a minute too slow to break an hour but push on anyway.
Manage to catch a few on the way down to the crags and then the usual kamikaze flap down to the road for a 1/2 mile cruise to the finish in exactly 61 mins, only beaten this once so quite pleased.
Decided to have a go at a better time this year, only under the hour once & that was in 2004, other years about 62 to 65 mins. Half mile of road to start, gradual uphill before a steep haul zig zagging up the crags. Running again once on top and over the moor, join the farm track past Loch Humphrey before another trudge through moorland, a bit of effort required to keep running.
The route continues in a clockwise loop on a rough path?? along the side of Greenside reservoir before the short sharp climb up to the trig point at the top of the Slacks in 49 1/2 mins. About a minute too slow to break an hour but push on anyway.
Manage to catch a few on the way down to the crags and then the usual kamikaze flap down to the road for a 1/2 mile cruise to the finish in exactly 61 mins, only beaten this once so quite pleased.
Monday, June 02, 2008
Arrochar Sat 31st May
Another blistering day in the Arrochar Alps, planned an increase from last weeks run from 2 to 3 tops, Vane, Ime & the Cobbler, about 14 miles and 6800' of ascent.
Set off up Glen Loin after 8 at a steady pace, walking the steeper bits to save energy for the mornings bigger bits. Arriving at Corriegrogan bridge in just over 45 mins and a welcome splash in the river, a few minutes later turned up Ben Vane at the 2nd bridge. Spotted what looked like some walkers which gave me a target about half way up and kept up a steady plod till I overtook them, much to their surprise, if only they knew how fast some hill runners can climb.
Sheltered from any wind there were hundreds of long legged insects on the upper section of Vane, thankfully this part always goes in quickly as you have to concentrate on foot and hand holds & soon you are on the top of the knobbles which gives this munro its name. Spectacular views all round and a breeze.
A short break to refuel and a nice easy 25 minute descent to Lag Uaine starting off West then gradually turning South once past the top crags, turned too soon so came through some of the lower crags which slowed things down a bit. Interesting to compare this to last years Arrochar Alps race where the same descent took 16 mins in a pea souper mist.
From Lag Uaine its 1600' up within a mile so no running here, a 57 minute mile later & I'm feeling rather parched but happy to be on top again. A drink and some food before the run down to Bealach a Mhaim and then like a (spit roasted) chicken opted out of the Cobbler and stuck to the path through the glen only stopping to enjoy a few of the waterfalls en route.
Finished in just over 4 hours, about 13 miles & 5700' of ascent, glad that common sense prevailed in giving the Cobbler a miss and the sunstroke which could have been my reward. A few pictures from Ben Vane and a couple from Beinn Ime in the Galleria, and a picture of the Rock as well.
Set off up Glen Loin after 8 at a steady pace, walking the steeper bits to save energy for the mornings bigger bits. Arriving at Corriegrogan bridge in just over 45 mins and a welcome splash in the river, a few minutes later turned up Ben Vane at the 2nd bridge. Spotted what looked like some walkers which gave me a target about half way up and kept up a steady plod till I overtook them, much to their surprise, if only they knew how fast some hill runners can climb.
Sheltered from any wind there were hundreds of long legged insects on the upper section of Vane, thankfully this part always goes in quickly as you have to concentrate on foot and hand holds & soon you are on the top of the knobbles which gives this munro its name. Spectacular views all round and a breeze.
A short break to refuel and a nice easy 25 minute descent to Lag Uaine starting off West then gradually turning South once past the top crags, turned too soon so came through some of the lower crags which slowed things down a bit. Interesting to compare this to last years Arrochar Alps race where the same descent took 16 mins in a pea souper mist.
From Lag Uaine its 1600' up within a mile so no running here, a 57 minute mile later & I'm feeling rather parched but happy to be on top again. A drink and some food before the run down to Bealach a Mhaim and then like a (spit roasted) chicken opted out of the Cobbler and stuck to the path through the glen only stopping to enjoy a few of the waterfalls en route.
Finished in just over 4 hours, about 13 miles & 5700' of ascent, glad that common sense prevailed in giving the Cobbler a miss and the sunstroke which could have been my reward. A few pictures from Ben Vane and a couple from Beinn Ime in the Galleria, and a picture of the Rock as well.
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