More hills this weekend, hopefully beating the weather as forecast to change through Saturday, set off for a circuit starting up Glen Loin, leaving the track to tackle Ben Vane & Beinn Ime, descend to Beallach a'Mhaim returning to Succouth between Narnain & the Cobbler about 13 miles & 5700' of ascent overall.
With only the tops with any cloud set off just after 8:30, walked the steeper parts of the Glen Loin track, arriving at the Ben Vane path in just under 50 mins. Steady plod up Ben Vane, increase in erosion noticeable again this year with many walking pole holes just beside the path which will no doubt crumble by next year. Mist came down to meet me and about 2000'+ came across 2 Ptarmigan, near where I saw them a couple of years ago, still in winter plumage.
Reached the top of Vane in just under 2 hours, no views, clagged in. The descent off the back to Lag Uaine is either a nightmare if you get the line wrong, or easy....this time easy & quickest yet, about 15 mins with no real effort, what a difference when you get the line right. Only problem still clagged in until the last few feet meant I couldn't pick out the line up to Glas Bhealach & Ben Ime. Lag Uaine is a lonely place in the mist.
Opted for a route change through to Glen Loin, a nice run, coming out above the dissapearing river then set off towards the top of the Glen & back into the mist for the climb out to Beallach a'Mhaim returning to Succouth after feeling my way to the path between Narnain & the Cobbler, didn't see much of either.
Distance as planned but the route change meant about 500' less ascent. Cloud level dropped about 1000' in the hour or so either side of Ben Vane and then returned to blue skies by the time I arrived back in the Vale. A few pics in the Galleria.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Rock n Roll, Running n Beer
Weekend began with a 9 mile Friday afternoon run through Renton to Dalmoak onto the Kipperoch track to Cardross, back to the Vale via Carman, just about 9 miles and 1000 foa. Sitting back for a quiet Friday night then a surprise invitation to the Vale Masonic for a foot stomping night of Rock with among others Littlehed & the Halos . A good night with a few beers and a Bar51 invasion after.
Saturday brought a first, the Clydesdale 5k, 2 laps round the Clydebank Industrial Park then along to the usual loop to pick up the cycle path back towards the shopping centre, your finished before you know it, but good to run a shorter race for a change, finished in about 21 1/2 mins, picked up the pace to easily outsprint a 60+ year old so probably could have pushed it a wee bit faster, but not much.
Sunday's weather forecast wasn't good..turned out fine, dry, breezy with cloud base mostly above the tops but some down towards 2500'.
Drove to Arrochar for 3000' in 2 1/2 miles of straight up Ben Narnain, a quick drop down to Bealach a' Mhaim then 1000' plus trot up the back of the Cobbler. First time up the Cobbler for 30 odd years, hasn't changed much apart from the new erosion proofing man made steps, ok going up but a bit picky going down. Came off the Cobbler onto the path in 2:45, picked up the pace through the glen to finish in just over 3 hours.
A few snow patches to negotiate along the way with the usual diffcult gully through the Spearhead, some good views under the clouds, a few pics in the Galleria.
Saturday brought a first, the Clydesdale 5k, 2 laps round the Clydebank Industrial Park then along to the usual loop to pick up the cycle path back towards the shopping centre, your finished before you know it, but good to run a shorter race for a change, finished in about 21 1/2 mins, picked up the pace to easily outsprint a 60+ year old so probably could have pushed it a wee bit faster, but not much.
Sunday's weather forecast wasn't good..turned out fine, dry, breezy with cloud base mostly above the tops but some down towards 2500'.
Drove to Arrochar for 3000' in 2 1/2 miles of straight up Ben Narnain, a quick drop down to Bealach a' Mhaim then 1000' plus trot up the back of the Cobbler. First time up the Cobbler for 30 odd years, hasn't changed much apart from the new erosion proofing man made steps, ok going up but a bit picky going down. Came off the Cobbler onto the path in 2:45, picked up the pace through the glen to finish in just over 3 hours.
A few snow patches to negotiate along the way with the usual diffcult gully through the Spearhead, some good views under the clouds, a few pics in the Galleria.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
WHW run Sat 7th March
2nd part of the planned B2B a longer run on the WHW from Drymen to Sallochy Bay & back. About 22 miles & 4000' of ascent including up & down Conic Hill both ways.
Started out dry & ran without a jacket on, just 2 thermals to try to avoid the usual sweat soaked mess. Jogged along, walking most hills with a bit of purpose to get some return.
Reached Sallochy in just over 3 hours, brief stop to refuel then back towards Drymen, this time pushing hard up the hills and v easy in between. Rain started on the way back, put a third thermal on before the climb back over Conic. Made it back to Drymen in 3 hours 10, 6 hours 13 all in.
Started out dry & ran without a jacket on, just 2 thermals to try to avoid the usual sweat soaked mess. Jogged along, walking most hills with a bit of purpose to get some return.
Reached Sallochy in just over 3 hours, brief stop to refuel then back towards Drymen, this time pushing hard up the hills and v easy in between. Rain started on the way back, put a third thermal on before the climb back over Conic. Made it back to Drymen in 3 hours 10, 6 hours 13 all in.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Glen Loin Fri 6th March
1st run of the weekend back to back, an evening ACW run round Glen Loin, set off about 6 to try out running with head torches, turned out we didn't need them, didn't get dark until half way round then the snow meant no need for the torches. Ran all the hills and walked quite a bit in between, slippy underfoot on the way back, low visibility meant we had to take it easier than usual, good run, finished in about 2 hours 20.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Ben Lui Nature Reserve Sun 1st March
Armed with my newly purchased Harvey Superwalker map (waterproof) I set out to try for a circuit of the 4 Lui Munros. The plan was to follow the track from Dalrigh towards Cononish, would the huts really be green? Would I find my fortune in gold? As luck would have it, no, but the huts are really green, oh and the weather turned pretty poor as well, low cloud and snow restricting the run to a couple of up & downs, 12 or so miles & 4000' of ascent.
Set off towards Cononish, leaving the track just before the green huts up the steep lower slopes of Beinn Dubhcraig. After 1000' or so the gradient eased to runnable. Continue to climb but towards cloud and snow, occaisional sun beams breaking through giving some hope of clearer weather.
About 2500' didn't look good, unfamiliar ground, snow, cloud, took a 5 min break to orientate and plan. Common sense took over and about turn away from the snow & clouds and back to the track.
Ben Lui looked interesting in the distance, brown/green slopes leading to a white cauldron like Coire Gaothach 1000' plus above. On the way towards Lui occaisional cloud breaks revealing glimpses of Beinn Dubhcraig & Ben Oss summits. At the base of the climb ran upstream alongside the Alt Coire Laoigh to find a dry crossing point, didn't fancy starting out wet. Across the stream a trod winds up past several waterfalls just before the jaws at the entrance to Coire G and back into snow and cloud. The Coire is strewn with large boulders around streams which were lying under a few feet of snow to trap the careless walker, their prescence only realised by the muffled sound of rushing water.
Climbed up into the Coire as far as I dared, stopping to build a snowman & for a wine gum or two. Phone started taking pictures on its own in the rather wet conditions, took it out my pocket and tried to point it at some of the Coire features, a couple of the pictures that came out are in the Galleria.
After a few minutes set off down the snowy slopes, 2 slips and 1 fall but no submission, fall being cushioned by the spare clothes and litre of juice in my backpack, at least there was no-one around to see it.
On the way back ploughed straight through the Alt Coire Laoigh to clean the shoes and leggings before a leisurely hours jog back to Dalrigh. Although short of the planned route the near 5 hour run was well worth it as a recce to appreciate the terrain for better weather. Map a good purchase, as well as the 4 Lui Munro's it has all 7 Crianlarich Munro's, from Ben More to Beinn Chabhair.
Set off towards Cononish, leaving the track just before the green huts up the steep lower slopes of Beinn Dubhcraig. After 1000' or so the gradient eased to runnable. Continue to climb but towards cloud and snow, occaisional sun beams breaking through giving some hope of clearer weather.
About 2500' didn't look good, unfamiliar ground, snow, cloud, took a 5 min break to orientate and plan. Common sense took over and about turn away from the snow & clouds and back to the track.
Ben Lui looked interesting in the distance, brown/green slopes leading to a white cauldron like Coire Gaothach 1000' plus above. On the way towards Lui occaisional cloud breaks revealing glimpses of Beinn Dubhcraig & Ben Oss summits. At the base of the climb ran upstream alongside the Alt Coire Laoigh to find a dry crossing point, didn't fancy starting out wet. Across the stream a trod winds up past several waterfalls just before the jaws at the entrance to Coire G and back into snow and cloud. The Coire is strewn with large boulders around streams which were lying under a few feet of snow to trap the careless walker, their prescence only realised by the muffled sound of rushing water.
Climbed up into the Coire as far as I dared, stopping to build a snowman & for a wine gum or two. Phone started taking pictures on its own in the rather wet conditions, took it out my pocket and tried to point it at some of the Coire features, a couple of the pictures that came out are in the Galleria.
After a few minutes set off down the snowy slopes, 2 slips and 1 fall but no submission, fall being cushioned by the spare clothes and litre of juice in my backpack, at least there was no-one around to see it.
On the way back ploughed straight through the Alt Coire Laoigh to clean the shoes and leggings before a leisurely hours jog back to Dalrigh. Although short of the planned route the near 5 hour run was well worth it as a recce to appreciate the terrain for better weather. Map a good purchase, as well as the 4 Lui Munro's it has all 7 Crianlarich Munro's, from Ben More to Beinn Chabhair.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Glen Loin Sun 22nd Feb
Short run this week, the 10 mile Glen Loin loop. Conditions much warmer with snow confined to patches from about 2000', might have been more but couldn't see much for the clouds.
Ran anti clockwise, left the road and the Heron wheeled round us, once we reached the track after clearing the trees we could see the puddles ahead rippling with life, turned out to be a couple of hundred frogs spread over the three or four pools within 100 yards of track, oh and bucket loads of frog spawn.
Continued our run walking most of the hills apart from the long drag up Corriegrogan. Easy run back to finish in about 2 hrs 20. Couple of pics in the Galleria.
Ran anti clockwise, left the road and the Heron wheeled round us, once we reached the track after clearing the trees we could see the puddles ahead rippling with life, turned out to be a couple of hundred frogs spread over the three or four pools within 100 yards of track, oh and bucket loads of frog spawn.
Continued our run walking most of the hills apart from the long drag up Corriegrogan. Easy run back to finish in about 2 hrs 20. Couple of pics in the Galleria.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Carnethy 5 Sat 14th Feb
Set off at 10 for today's race over 5 tops in the Pentlands. The route covers Scald Law, South Black Hill, East Kip, West Kip and finally Carnethy, about 6 miles & 2500' of ascent. The sort of start to the hill running season, and a first for me...a hill race in the snow.
Hung back in the school hall as long as possible but still arrived at the start with nearly an hour to go, stood in the tea marquee the heat from the urns providing some comfort, stood on a tussock of grass to further insulate the feet. Half an hour to go & went for a warm up jog avoiding most of the streams and swampy bits.
At 2 o'clock 500 runners set off after a chorus of Flower of Scotland, a few jimmy hats and kilts worn by the runners. After the mad dash across the bog settled into a steady trudge up Scald Law reaching the top in just over 22 mins. From Scald Law its an undulating ridge run over South Black Hill to the short sharp climbs over the Kips.
From West Kip a long snowy descent towards the Howe, misleading as when you reach the bottom its still a fair run along to the start of the climb up Carnethy. Bumslide the last steep drop before the burn then jog walk to the bottom of the gully where its back into grind uphill mode. When you clear the gully the track becomes runnable again and the top of Carnethy and the last wee climb comes into view. Crank up the effort happy it will soon be all down hill.
The run off Carnethy tricky especially when someone in front falls or crosses your path, evasive action tricky at times in the snowy heather. Through the gate and try to turn left onto the path, slipped on the greasy bank for my first fall of the race. Charge back across the swamp managing to pick off two or three more to finish just under 80 mins.
Back to school for a shower and a school dinner before the drive home. A cracking wee race to start the season with 500 runners & times ranging from 50 to 150 minutes no one need worry about being left behind or lost. This was the 39th running of the race so they must be doing something right, watch out for highlights on the adventure show sometime in March, a couple o pics in the Galleria and a lot more here!
Hung back in the school hall as long as possible but still arrived at the start with nearly an hour to go, stood in the tea marquee the heat from the urns providing some comfort, stood on a tussock of grass to further insulate the feet. Half an hour to go & went for a warm up jog avoiding most of the streams and swampy bits.
At 2 o'clock 500 runners set off after a chorus of Flower of Scotland, a few jimmy hats and kilts worn by the runners. After the mad dash across the bog settled into a steady trudge up Scald Law reaching the top in just over 22 mins. From Scald Law its an undulating ridge run over South Black Hill to the short sharp climbs over the Kips.
From West Kip a long snowy descent towards the Howe, misleading as when you reach the bottom its still a fair run along to the start of the climb up Carnethy. Bumslide the last steep drop before the burn then jog walk to the bottom of the gully where its back into grind uphill mode. When you clear the gully the track becomes runnable again and the top of Carnethy and the last wee climb comes into view. Crank up the effort happy it will soon be all down hill.
The run off Carnethy tricky especially when someone in front falls or crosses your path, evasive action tricky at times in the snowy heather. Through the gate and try to turn left onto the path, slipped on the greasy bank for my first fall of the race. Charge back across the swamp managing to pick off two or three more to finish just under 80 mins.
Back to school for a shower and a school dinner before the drive home. A cracking wee race to start the season with 500 runners & times ranging from 50 to 150 minutes no one need worry about being left behind or lost. This was the 39th running of the race so they must be doing something right, watch out for highlights on the adventure show sometime in March, a couple o pics in the Galleria and a lot more here!
Monday, February 09, 2009
Luss Hills Sat 7th Feb
Same route as last week only in the opposite direction, Friday's blue skies had promised much but had been replaced by cloud overnight as we left the Vale around 8 am.
Set off at a gentle jog up the Glen road then left the road for the 1700' climb up Beinn Eich, sky clearing with our ascent. Well into the snow by the time we reached the top and the views opening up all round with Paddy's Milestone clear on the horizon over 60 miles away down the Firth of Clyde.
We continued along the undulating ridge from Beinn Eich over Beinn Lochainn to Doune Hill. The snow wind blown to a crisp surface making for a bit of fun on the steeper descents. The initial drop from the Trig point on Doune Hill quite tricky to pick out a safe route, snow changing from crisp ice to knee deep drifts within a few feet depending on slope aspect to wind direction. A bit of bumsliding solved the problem & we were soon off on the run down to re-group at Sith Mor.
From SM it's a 1400' climb up to the 2 cairns between the Corries and a fantastic snow covered mountain vista opened up all around, snow, sun & blue skies as far as you could see. Ran towards the top of Beinn Dubh and having met no-one since we left started to meet groups hillwalkers coming up from Luss.
Regrouped at the Beinn Dubh cairn then set off for Luss, avoiding the path which was mostly ice. About 1/2 way down had to stop to remove jacket, hat & gloves as the temp rose in the sun.
Dissapointed to have to leave the stunning views from the tops the extra thermal top seemed to make all the difference compared to last week. Left the camera in the car as usual when the weather & views are that bit special.
Set off at a gentle jog up the Glen road then left the road for the 1700' climb up Beinn Eich, sky clearing with our ascent. Well into the snow by the time we reached the top and the views opening up all round with Paddy's Milestone clear on the horizon over 60 miles away down the Firth of Clyde.
We continued along the undulating ridge from Beinn Eich over Beinn Lochainn to Doune Hill. The snow wind blown to a crisp surface making for a bit of fun on the steeper descents. The initial drop from the Trig point on Doune Hill quite tricky to pick out a safe route, snow changing from crisp ice to knee deep drifts within a few feet depending on slope aspect to wind direction. A bit of bumsliding solved the problem & we were soon off on the run down to re-group at Sith Mor.
From SM it's a 1400' climb up to the 2 cairns between the Corries and a fantastic snow covered mountain vista opened up all around, snow, sun & blue skies as far as you could see. Ran towards the top of Beinn Dubh and having met no-one since we left started to meet groups hillwalkers coming up from Luss.
Regrouped at the Beinn Dubh cairn then set off for Luss, avoiding the path which was mostly ice. About 1/2 way down had to stop to remove jacket, hat & gloves as the temp rose in the sun.
Dissapointed to have to leave the stunning views from the tops the extra thermal top seemed to make all the difference compared to last week. Left the camera in the car as usual when the weather & views are that bit special.
Monday, February 02, 2009
Luss Horeshoe Sun 1st Feb
This used to be the "long" Luss run but since crossing the Glen and on into the next one today's route could only be called Luss ACW medium, about 12 miles and close to 5000' of ascent. Starting at the mouth of the Glen ascending Beinn Dubh, along the ridge before dropping into Sith Mor, re-ascent up Doune Hill :) along the ridge back to the top of Glen Luss via Beinn Eich, jog down the Glen to finish.
Made good time ascending Beinn Dubh the bitter east wind kinda helping you up, no doubt pay back was just over the next hill. Frozen ground almost all the way meant freezing water didn't flush in & out of your shoes with every step, another bonus. Ran on the track round the corries overlooking Glens Mollochan and Douglas before the steep drop into Sith Mor patches of snow smoothing the way. A bit of care required to avoid glassy black frozen streams which filter unseen through the grass.
After crossing Sith Mor the 2nd big climb of the run, Doune Hill, managed to find a few half frozen streams to freeze the toes, oh joy. As we aproached the summit of Doune Hill the wind, although helping to push you up, began to burn, the usual shelter spots ineffective. Too cold to linger on the tops and then struggled to put ski gloves on frozen fingers on the run towards Beinn Eich. Even with 2 Buffs and a wooly hat my frozen face made talking a problem.
Sheltering behind Beinn Eich gave a welcome break from the wind until we reached the top where it bit again enocuraging us to descend as quickly as possible. Thankfuly the wind eased off the further down we got. Jog down the Glen relatively pleasant as we were out of the wind, finished in about 3 hrs 50 mins. Couple of pics in the Galleria.
Made good time ascending Beinn Dubh the bitter east wind kinda helping you up, no doubt pay back was just over the next hill. Frozen ground almost all the way meant freezing water didn't flush in & out of your shoes with every step, another bonus. Ran on the track round the corries overlooking Glens Mollochan and Douglas before the steep drop into Sith Mor patches of snow smoothing the way. A bit of care required to avoid glassy black frozen streams which filter unseen through the grass.
After crossing Sith Mor the 2nd big climb of the run, Doune Hill, managed to find a few half frozen streams to freeze the toes, oh joy. As we aproached the summit of Doune Hill the wind, although helping to push you up, began to burn, the usual shelter spots ineffective. Too cold to linger on the tops and then struggled to put ski gloves on frozen fingers on the run towards Beinn Eich. Even with 2 Buffs and a wooly hat my frozen face made talking a problem.
Sheltering behind Beinn Eich gave a welcome break from the wind until we reached the top where it bit again enocuraging us to descend as quickly as possible. Thankfuly the wind eased off the further down we got. Jog down the Glen relatively pleasant as we were out of the wind, finished in about 3 hrs 50 mins. Couple of pics in the Galleria.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Whinney Hill Sat 31st Jan
15 runners took part in this seasons final Club Cross Country race, conditions near perfect, cool, dry & a freezing swamp underfoot for most of the route.
Starts with a lap of Balloch Park leaving at the top of Heart Attack Hill on the new Whinney Hill trail, mud meant you had to concentrate and pick out the best foot placement, a balance between using energy avoiding the sludge or using it up to plough through the middle.
Set off at a steady pace and found myself in a group of one leaving the park, cruised round keeping a good effort going up the hills, recovered quickly once past the seat and pushed on, still no-one in front or behind apart from the odd runner going the wrong/social way.
Finished just outside 44 mins for the five miles.
Starts with a lap of Balloch Park leaving at the top of Heart Attack Hill on the new Whinney Hill trail, mud meant you had to concentrate and pick out the best foot placement, a balance between using energy avoiding the sludge or using it up to plough through the middle.
Set off at a steady pace and found myself in a group of one leaving the park, cruised round keeping a good effort going up the hills, recovered quickly once past the seat and pushed on, still no-one in front or behind apart from the odd runner going the wrong/social way.
Finished just outside 44 mins for the five miles.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Lochside run Sun 25th Jan
Long lie this Sunday but the hoped for Luss Horseshoe didn't happen, the chance of getting lost in the snow & cloud and being late to pick up the WHW Team from Beinglas would have further trashed my reputation?
Got up about 1/2 10 and after a leisurely breakfast drove to Beinglas, stopped at Luss to check out the conditions but couldn't risk the inevitable snow & cloud delay, the price would have been too high. Snow clad Conic Hill looking splendid across the Loch.
Weather at Beinglas horrible, rain/wind/cloud and carried full pack for a run down towards Inversnaid to meet the WHWT coming from Balmaha & Drymen which they should have left about 1/2 8.
Soon after leaving Beinglas met Helen looking warm and dry, suitably clad for the conditions. Pushed on down the WHW, nice to lose yourself and run free at whatever pace the terrain and stunning views of Loch and mountain allow. The route a mixture of undulating track with several root & boulder strewn sections a test of your concentration.
Met the first group of Millies before Inversnaid and they seemed in good spirits, brief chat and off again. Weather gradually clearing as the day went on. Ran for about another 25 mins until the second group appeared, again in good spirits but a bit quieter as they had an extra few miles in their legs including a snowy Conic Hill.
Pleased with 2 hrs 6 out & 2 hrs 16 back, the way back included a couple of run backs to the group and a rest at the top of the loch. About 15 miles & 2500' of ascent, an easy week! A couple of pics in the Galleria. Action pics in the WHW 2009 MTB along with some more contributions on the day out.
Got up about 1/2 10 and after a leisurely breakfast drove to Beinglas, stopped at Luss to check out the conditions but couldn't risk the inevitable snow & cloud delay, the price would have been too high. Snow clad Conic Hill looking splendid across the Loch.
Weather at Beinglas horrible, rain/wind/cloud and carried full pack for a run down towards Inversnaid to meet the WHWT coming from Balmaha & Drymen which they should have left about 1/2 8.
Soon after leaving Beinglas met Helen looking warm and dry, suitably clad for the conditions. Pushed on down the WHW, nice to lose yourself and run free at whatever pace the terrain and stunning views of Loch and mountain allow. The route a mixture of undulating track with several root & boulder strewn sections a test of your concentration.
Met the first group of Millies before Inversnaid and they seemed in good spirits, brief chat and off again. Weather gradually clearing as the day went on. Ran for about another 25 mins until the second group appeared, again in good spirits but a bit quieter as they had an extra few miles in their legs including a snowy Conic Hill.
Pleased with 2 hrs 6 out & 2 hrs 16 back, the way back included a couple of run backs to the group and a rest at the top of the loch. About 15 miles & 2500' of ascent, an easy week! A couple of pics in the Galleria. Action pics in the WHW 2009 MTB along with some more contributions on the day out.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Local run, Sat 17th Jan
Forecast really poor with no prospect of any high level runs this weekend combined with a limited slot available so 5 of us set out on a local run, an extention of the Pappert/Stoneymollen route I tried a couple of weeks ago to include Whinney Hill. Three of the Club race routes in one go.
The route started at the Vale Leisure Centre going towards Renton & then up onto the moor behind the Carman Reservoir, thru the Quarry, descent to Balloch via Stoneymollen, round Balloch Park to the top of Whinney Hill, back to the Park then thru Jamestown to Bonhill, up to Pappert Well & back down to the to the Vale Leisure Centre.
About 19 or 20 miles & 3100' of ascent, a bit shorter & with less ascent than last week but the rougher terrain would compensate.
Surprise was how good the weather was, no rain, even a bit of sunshine & windchill only evident on the tops.
Jog walked to the Trig point, a favourite panorama on the way to the Stoneymollen. We could now see the Luss tops were clear & I thought maybe should have gone there instead. Road shoes meant the run to the top of the Stoney was taken easy. Feet now freezing in the soaking, mushy ground.
Jogged down to Balloch and into B Park running along the lochside to the far end. Good run up the Fairy Glen to cross Botourich road where the fun started, paths to Whinney Hill a trifle too gooey for road shoes.
Picked up the pace coming off Whinney Hill, good fun as always, then back through the gooey woods to Balloch Park.
Run thru Jamestown to Bonhill an unpleasant contrast with cars & general public bustle.
Took a farm track at Northfield onto the hill which went through a herd of cows and delightful bit of muck, about a foot deep. At the style we joined the Pappert race route to the Trig Point. From here we ran straight down the track thru the woods to Pappert Housing Estate, path in poor condition in the mud. Cross Bonhill Bridge & short cut over the magic roundabout to finish.
Enjoyed what turned out to be a good run, soft ground making you work hard, finished in just under 4hrs 50.
The route started at the Vale Leisure Centre going towards Renton & then up onto the moor behind the Carman Reservoir, thru the Quarry, descent to Balloch via Stoneymollen, round Balloch Park to the top of Whinney Hill, back to the Park then thru Jamestown to Bonhill, up to Pappert Well & back down to the to the Vale Leisure Centre.
About 19 or 20 miles & 3100' of ascent, a bit shorter & with less ascent than last week but the rougher terrain would compensate.
Surprise was how good the weather was, no rain, even a bit of sunshine & windchill only evident on the tops.
Jog walked to the Trig point, a favourite panorama on the way to the Stoneymollen. We could now see the Luss tops were clear & I thought maybe should have gone there instead. Road shoes meant the run to the top of the Stoney was taken easy. Feet now freezing in the soaking, mushy ground.
Jogged down to Balloch and into B Park running along the lochside to the far end. Good run up the Fairy Glen to cross Botourich road where the fun started, paths to Whinney Hill a trifle too gooey for road shoes.
Picked up the pace coming off Whinney Hill, good fun as always, then back through the gooey woods to Balloch Park.
Run thru Jamestown to Bonhill an unpleasant contrast with cars & general public bustle.
Took a farm track at Northfield onto the hill which went through a herd of cows and delightful bit of muck, about a foot deep. At the style we joined the Pappert race route to the Trig Point. From here we ran straight down the track thru the woods to Pappert Housing Estate, path in poor condition in the mud. Cross Bonhill Bridge & short cut over the magic roundabout to finish.
Enjoyed what turned out to be a good run, soft ground making you work hard, finished in just under 4hrs 50.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Ardgarten Sun 12th Jan
First time round the Ardgarten 20 mile 4000' of ascent loop since our 35 miler in April of last year where we ran it as an add-on to Glen Loin. Weather better than forecast, which was for torrential rain and gales to 100 mph, but not much.
About 10 of us set off at 8:45 for an ACW loop. Most of the group are ultra training which means jog walking, stayed with this for about 8 or 9 miles 'til we arrived at Lochgoilhead then ran on. Ran the first half of the Dukes Pass climb then as yesterdays race kicked in jog walked to the top to save some energy so that I could run across the moor where the trees are still too small to offer any protection from the elements.
Reached the Lochan in something over 3 hours for the undulating run back up Loch Long to Ardgarten. Its about 5 miles on the forest tracks then a tough last couple of miles on the road.
Track was quiet with only some deer for company. Reached the end of the track in 4 hrs plus then 4 hrs 25mins overall. A quick change into warm/dry clothes, disappointed the Forestry shop is closed, so no coffee or food, & curled up in the back of the car to wait for the rest.
Just about sleeping when the rest arrive in small groups, only problem one missing...what to do?? Still some light left so waited a while then split up and while one car drove towards Lochhgoilhead, one car waited, and after a lift to the end of the forest track went for a run back for any sign of our lost runner.
Devoured an energy gel and set off, reckoned about an hour and a bit of daylight left and ran back towards the Lochan. Stopped a few times but then went to the top of the next hill, next corner, next hill etc until just about level with the jetty, the boat lights begginning to twinkle in the gloom, no sign or sound & turned for a trudge back.
About 5 or 10 mins later call on the mobile, the lost sheep had been returned to Ardgarten in style (the back of a Beemer). Meant I could eat the "emergency" food I had kept in case our missing runner was found wanting, a mini mars bar and a cream egg!
Still a couple of undualting miles to go so head down and plod it out. Met near the end of the track by Robbo & gave him a row as he had tried to use his people carrier as a 4x4 & shorten my run.
Positives, no one hurt, an extra 6 miles & 1000' of ascent, negatives???, banned from going out with that lot ever again!
About 10 of us set off at 8:45 for an ACW loop. Most of the group are ultra training which means jog walking, stayed with this for about 8 or 9 miles 'til we arrived at Lochgoilhead then ran on. Ran the first half of the Dukes Pass climb then as yesterdays race kicked in jog walked to the top to save some energy so that I could run across the moor where the trees are still too small to offer any protection from the elements.
Reached the Lochan in something over 3 hours for the undulating run back up Loch Long to Ardgarten. Its about 5 miles on the forest tracks then a tough last couple of miles on the road.
Track was quiet with only some deer for company. Reached the end of the track in 4 hrs plus then 4 hrs 25mins overall. A quick change into warm/dry clothes, disappointed the Forestry shop is closed, so no coffee or food, & curled up in the back of the car to wait for the rest.
Just about sleeping when the rest arrive in small groups, only problem one missing...what to do?? Still some light left so waited a while then split up and while one car drove towards Lochhgoilhead, one car waited, and after a lift to the end of the forest track went for a run back for any sign of our lost runner.
Devoured an energy gel and set off, reckoned about an hour and a bit of daylight left and ran back towards the Lochan. Stopped a few times but then went to the top of the next hill, next corner, next hill etc until just about level with the jetty, the boat lights begginning to twinkle in the gloom, no sign or sound & turned for a trudge back.
About 5 or 10 mins later call on the mobile, the lost sheep had been returned to Ardgarten in style (the back of a Beemer). Meant I could eat the "emergency" food I had kept in case our missing runner was found wanting, a mini mars bar and a cream egg!
Still a couple of undualting miles to go so head down and plod it out. Met near the end of the track by Robbo & gave him a row as he had tried to use his people carrier as a 4x4 & shorten my run.
Positives, no one hurt, an extra 6 miles & 1000' of ascent, negatives???, banned from going out with that lot ever again!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Polaroid XC Sat 10th Jan
Perfect conditions for the second of our three Club Cross Country races, this one round the outside of the Polaroid Industrial Estate. Setting out the course disturbed some of the local wildlife, a Heron, Rabbits and a Fox.
For an industrial estate the route is relatively scenic, starts in a field where you pick up a narrow trail through some trees to a path alongside the river Leven, the path follows the Leven round a large curve right round the back of the Polaroid factory and then cuts through an open field in front of the adjacent housing estate followed by a short hill and a run through some rougher ground with a short section of grass verge back to the start.
Race started at 10:00 am, 1 lap for the girls, 2 for the boys, each lap about 2.2 or so miles and a great turnout of 22 runners. Tried for a steady run this year with a 17:11 first lap, nobody pushing from behind and drifted to a slower second lap of 17:33. Lack of mud and sludge underfoot meant my time was close to my PB maybe a wee bit more would have beaten it, pleased with what was a more controlled effort than usual and felt fine after.
With the lack of mud it was only 2 or 3 trees and ditches to jump and the wooden stairs to provide some disruption to your pace.
Tea & biscuits after and then home just before the heavens opened for the rest of the weekend.
For an industrial estate the route is relatively scenic, starts in a field where you pick up a narrow trail through some trees to a path alongside the river Leven, the path follows the Leven round a large curve right round the back of the Polaroid factory and then cuts through an open field in front of the adjacent housing estate followed by a short hill and a run through some rougher ground with a short section of grass verge back to the start.
Race started at 10:00 am, 1 lap for the girls, 2 for the boys, each lap about 2.2 or so miles and a great turnout of 22 runners. Tried for a steady run this year with a 17:11 first lap, nobody pushing from behind and drifted to a slower second lap of 17:33. Lack of mud and sludge underfoot meant my time was close to my PB maybe a wee bit more would have beaten it, pleased with what was a more controlled effort than usual and felt fine after.
With the lack of mud it was only 2 or 3 trees and ditches to jump and the wooden stairs to provide some disruption to your pace.
Tea & biscuits after and then home just before the heavens opened for the rest of the weekend.
Monday, January 05, 2009
Vale Hills Sun 4th Jan
Tighter than usual for time this weekend and decided to run the Pappert Well hills and the Stoneymollen Hills, about 13 miles & 2200' of ascent. Overcast & freezing but not too much wind chill.
Set off just after 8 at an easy pace and picked up the track to the right of the gully following it round the back of the Pappert Estate. Turned uphill until through the fence and then "next" right onto the pink path to the Trig Point. Straight down from the Trig Point, taking another right turn along the pink path then a left, cross stream & style then right into the field, run towards the copse of trees/ruined house then down the farm track back to civilisation.
Ran along towards Renton, going up Carman under the bypass then left along the road to the steps/path for access to Carman Muir coming out behind the reservoir. Ran parallel to the road until level with the quarry where its straight through and up onto Overton and Bromley Muirs running along to the top of the Stoneymollen. Easy jog down & along the bypass cutting through Christie Park to get home in about 2 hrs 40.
Next time? Option could be to add in Whinney Hill to complete a circuit roon the Vale, about 19 or 20 miles & 3100' of ascent, and with a bit of imagination, most of it could be off road. Not as challenging as the Ardgarten 20 miler but ok for a wee change.
Set off just after 8 at an easy pace and picked up the track to the right of the gully following it round the back of the Pappert Estate. Turned uphill until through the fence and then "next" right onto the pink path to the Trig Point. Straight down from the Trig Point, taking another right turn along the pink path then a left, cross stream & style then right into the field, run towards the copse of trees/ruined house then down the farm track back to civilisation.
Ran along towards Renton, going up Carman under the bypass then left along the road to the steps/path for access to Carman Muir coming out behind the reservoir. Ran parallel to the road until level with the quarry where its straight through and up onto Overton and Bromley Muirs running along to the top of the Stoneymollen. Easy jog down & along the bypass cutting through Christie Park to get home in about 2 hrs 40.
Next time? Option could be to add in Whinney Hill to complete a circuit roon the Vale, about 19 or 20 miles & 3100' of ascent, and with a bit of imagination, most of it could be off road. Not as challenging as the Ardgarten 20 miler but ok for a wee change.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Calendar Crags Sat 3rd Jan
1st run & also race of the year in the 3 mile 800 FOA Calendar Crags, a low key hill race run for the best part on good forest tracks & road. Weather good, no wind, clear & with a bit of heat in the sun.
The race starts from a road behind Calendar Main Street accessing the steep trail up the Crags, reached the top gasping in 16 mins. The descent starts gently on a good path then drops down through woods to pick up a single track road. First couple of hundred yards on the road are flat/slightly uphill before dropping down quite steeply. As you pass a forest access car park cut back onto the forest track, slight uphill before a last mostly downhill push to finish in 31:35.
An excellent Hill race to get you some experience of the sport without any worries, well marshalled, no navigational issues, short, no difficult climbs or terrain, plenty of runners of all standards from Scottish Internationalists to fun runners. Race is run twice a year, 1st Sat in Jan & June.
The race starts from a road behind Calendar Main Street accessing the steep trail up the Crags, reached the top gasping in 16 mins. The descent starts gently on a good path then drops down through woods to pick up a single track road. First couple of hundred yards on the road are flat/slightly uphill before dropping down quite steeply. As you pass a forest access car park cut back onto the forest track, slight uphill before a last mostly downhill push to finish in 31:35.
An excellent Hill race to get you some experience of the sport without any worries, well marshalled, no navigational issues, short, no difficult climbs or terrain, plenty of runners of all standards from Scottish Internationalists to fun runners. Race is run twice a year, 1st Sat in Jan & June.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
WHW Sun 21st Dec
Back to the track for a 24 miler from Drymen to Milngavie & back. Compared to the last few weeks a flat route. Forecast not good, high winds and showers.
Set off about 8:20 into the wind and rain, jogged along the road to Gartness avoiding the field in case we got our feet wet. Past the Pots and onto the WHW track for an easy there and back jog. Rain stopped and the miles soon dissapeared, worked hard up the hills on the moorland track before the Carbeth Huts.
Reaching Mugdock started to feel short on energy but continued to Milngavie anyway. A bottle of lucozade and started back, jogged along but still with nothing extra. Ran without walking breaks, managing the stress by breaking the run into shorter sections. Showers on the way back as well. Soon back on the road at Gartness, pushed hard up the hills and recovered down the backs.
Finished with a run up through the field in 4 hrs 48, good effort at what turned out to be quite a tough run probably because we ran it all without any real walking breaks.
Set off about 8:20 into the wind and rain, jogged along the road to Gartness avoiding the field in case we got our feet wet. Past the Pots and onto the WHW track for an easy there and back jog. Rain stopped and the miles soon dissapeared, worked hard up the hills on the moorland track before the Carbeth Huts.
Reaching Mugdock started to feel short on energy but continued to Milngavie anyway. A bottle of lucozade and started back, jogged along but still with nothing extra. Ran without walking breaks, managing the stress by breaking the run into shorter sections. Showers on the way back as well. Soon back on the road at Gartness, pushed hard up the hills and recovered down the backs.
Finished with a run up through the field in 4 hrs 48, good effort at what turned out to be quite a tough run probably because we ran it all without any real walking breaks.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Luss Sun 14th Dec
Unsure of today's route apart from a few of the Luss hills, turned out to be an 11 mile 4600 FOA jog round the snow covered hills. Starting up Beinn Dubh, round the Corries, brief return to Glen Luss before crossing to climb Coille-eughain Hill, then instead of running (East) down the Paps turned South West then South to pick up the climb up to Beinn Ruisg on the Glen Finlas circuit, then return to the bottom of Glen Luss.
Set off just after 8 on a dull Sunday morning, no wind so a good day to get in some hills. The main tops were covered in snow from about 1500' and squelched up Beinn Dubh slopes avoiding the worst until any icy water shoe invasion about half way up.
View towards Conic islands above the clouds.
Brighter weather towards Dumbarton with Rock & Quarry silhouetted in the distance. Snow drifting to a foot or so on the top meant for freezing cold toes and minimal stops. The run along towards the corries colder by the minute the adjacent Loch trying to suck in heat and light and emit cold and dark in comparison to the now hidden views towards Balloch. Clouds rolled over from the North and snow started to gently fall in the still air.
Run off mid hill not as slippy as it should have been, no falls, no submissions this week. First drink break back down in Glen Luss walking up the Glen before the track to the river crossing. Steady plod up CE Hill, lack of chest high vegetation made it easier than the summer. Back into the snow at the top meant a quick change to running, avoiding the slush pools, towards Creag an Leinibh and a contour round to pick up the Glen Finlas trail and the sharp climb up to Beinn Ruisg.
Feet now like blocks of ice. Wanted to pick up the ridge just before the summit of Ruisg running down towards Auchengavin but as I approached the summit the cloud rose from the Glen and cut visibility to 50 or so yards, everything white. Continued on the more familiar Finlas route then as the surrounding aspects steepened turned East and downhill to try to get out of the cloud and pick out a route to the bottom of Glen Luss.
Steep pathless descent into Coire Eoinein meant slow going until clear of the snow. Still a fair distance to travel from the views opening up towards Glen Luss. Coire E full of gullies so kept to the sheep tracks higher up the hillside as they tend to pick up easier crossing points downside is they include a fair bit of re-ascent.
Ran down the lower part of the route of the Luss Highland Games Hill Races to finish off a tough wee run in just over 4:20. Some more pictures in the Galleria.
Set off just after 8 on a dull Sunday morning, no wind so a good day to get in some hills. The main tops were covered in snow from about 1500' and squelched up Beinn Dubh slopes avoiding the worst until any icy water shoe invasion about half way up.
View towards Conic islands above the clouds.
Brighter weather towards Dumbarton with Rock & Quarry silhouetted in the distance. Snow drifting to a foot or so on the top meant for freezing cold toes and minimal stops. The run along towards the corries colder by the minute the adjacent Loch trying to suck in heat and light and emit cold and dark in comparison to the now hidden views towards Balloch. Clouds rolled over from the North and snow started to gently fall in the still air.
Run off mid hill not as slippy as it should have been, no falls, no submissions this week. First drink break back down in Glen Luss walking up the Glen before the track to the river crossing. Steady plod up CE Hill, lack of chest high vegetation made it easier than the summer. Back into the snow at the top meant a quick change to running, avoiding the slush pools, towards Creag an Leinibh and a contour round to pick up the Glen Finlas trail and the sharp climb up to Beinn Ruisg.
Feet now like blocks of ice. Wanted to pick up the ridge just before the summit of Ruisg running down towards Auchengavin but as I approached the summit the cloud rose from the Glen and cut visibility to 50 or so yards, everything white. Continued on the more familiar Finlas route then as the surrounding aspects steepened turned East and downhill to try to get out of the cloud and pick out a route to the bottom of Glen Luss.
Steep pathless descent into Coire Eoinein meant slow going until clear of the snow. Still a fair distance to travel from the views opening up towards Glen Luss. Coire E full of gullies so kept to the sheep tracks higher up the hillside as they tend to pick up easier crossing points downside is they include a fair bit of re-ascent.
Ran down the lower part of the route of the Luss Highland Games Hill Races to finish off a tough wee run in just over 4:20. Some more pictures in the Galleria.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Ice Station Ardgarten Sun 7th Dec
Tough run planned for today didn't quite come off, starting at Ardgarten pick up the lower forrest track to Glen Loin and run acw to the top and instead of following the Glen back down take a left and head up the Bealach a' Mhaim returning to Ardgarten between Narnain & the Cobbler. A loop of the Cats Crag on offer for anyone with any energy left, about 17 miles & 4400' of ascent.
Didn't quite go to plan, the first hour & 1/2 spent negotiating icy tracks too low so they had thawed and re-frozen in sheets of ice, ok if you stuck to the verge but a bit harder to run. About 1/2 way up the Glen the ice gradually turned to snow which made for a great run to the top.
Turned back at the top and ran back towards Succouth, cut off the track through gorse/stream/brambles to get to the road and a 2 mile jog back to the cars at ice station Ardgarten. About 12 miles and 2000' of ascent.
Didn't quite go to plan, the first hour & 1/2 spent negotiating icy tracks too low so they had thawed and re-frozen in sheets of ice, ok if you stuck to the verge but a bit harder to run. About 1/2 way up the Glen the ice gradually turned to snow which made for a great run to the top.
Turned back at the top and ran back towards Succouth, cut off the track through gorse/stream/brambles to get to the road and a 2 mile jog back to the cars at ice station Ardgarten. About 12 miles and 2000' of ascent.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Stoneymollen Sun 30th Nov
Lost weekend, got up Sunday lunchtime, too late for Luss and had to make do with a short run. Cold and damp with the mist down & frost everywhere, put on thermals, hat & gloves. Started up Overton road then along through the fields past the Carman to pick up the path which takes you onto Carman Muir behind the reservoir. Ran round to the road missing the usual path through the ferns in the mist and daze.
Ran up through the quarry with shafts of sunlight beginning to appear. Sky cleared at the top of Overtoun Muir revealing cloud inversion in the valley below.
Ran down Bromley Muir to the top of the Stoneymollen & met a couple who are involved with a group trying to creating a network of paths all the way to Inveruglas, they were kind enough to take my picture with the snowy Ben in the background.
After a few minutes gazing at the snowscape around Loch Lomond set off down the Stoneymollen and into the cold and mist. A leisurely 1 1/2 hours with a sunny surprise at the top. A few more pictures in the Galleria.
Ran up through the quarry with shafts of sunlight beginning to appear. Sky cleared at the top of Overtoun Muir revealing cloud inversion in the valley below.
Ran down Bromley Muir to the top of the Stoneymollen & met a couple who are involved with a group trying to creating a network of paths all the way to Inveruglas, they were kind enough to take my picture with the snowy Ben in the background.
After a few minutes gazing at the snowscape around Loch Lomond set off down the Stoneymollen and into the cold and mist. A leisurely 1 1/2 hours with a sunny surprise at the top. A few more pictures in the Galleria.
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