Monday, August 30, 2010
Stoneymollan Sun 29th
Nice easy off road afternoon trot round the hills behind us. Ran through the fields to cross Carman, up the steps and track to the back of Carman reservoir, through the quarry and over the two small tops before the run down to the Stoney. Followed the path down then jogged along the bypass & through Christie Park to finish in 78 mins.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Ben Vorlich Sat 21st
Went to Arrochar with Ian and Jimmy and settled on an out and back run up Vorlich, 13 miles and 4500' of ascent . Forecast mixed, sunny spells with cloud, rain and a bit windy.
Set out from Succouth just after half 8 up the Glen Loin path, walked the hills to save some energy for the climb up Vorlichs steep flank. Left the road at the cairn taking the walkers path, ok at this time of year but can be somewhat mushy.
The path does its best to take the sting out of the climb and once your on the ridge its more runnable as the path winds through gullies and crags to the triple summit. We arrived at the highest summit and a seat out of the wind, a short break for a drink and some food and then ran along to the trig point before we go too cold, the trig point is the second highest top some 2 metres lower, we stopped to capture some photographic evidence of our visit.
Ran back along the ridge until we were level with the dam and then took the less used straight down path, steep, but ok with a bit of care and only fall when there is no rocks below you. Three falls and a couple of bum slides later and we were down. A run across the dam to pick up the road through the tunnel and the undulating run back through Glen Loin.
Lucky with the weather or just a good route choice as we escaped the low cloud that seemed to linger on the other Arrochar tops. Finished in 4 hours 15 and managed to avoid the speed trap going into Tarbet on the way home.
Set out from Succouth just after half 8 up the Glen Loin path, walked the hills to save some energy for the climb up Vorlichs steep flank. Left the road at the cairn taking the walkers path, ok at this time of year but can be somewhat mushy.
The path does its best to take the sting out of the climb and once your on the ridge its more runnable as the path winds through gullies and crags to the triple summit. We arrived at the highest summit and a seat out of the wind, a short break for a drink and some food and then ran along to the trig point before we go too cold, the trig point is the second highest top some 2 metres lower, we stopped to capture some photographic evidence of our visit.
Ran back along the ridge until we were level with the dam and then took the less used straight down path, steep, but ok with a bit of care and only fall when there is no rocks below you. Three falls and a couple of bum slides later and we were down. A run across the dam to pick up the road through the tunnel and the undulating run back through Glen Loin.
Lucky with the weather or just a good route choice as we escaped the low cloud that seemed to linger on the other Arrochar tops. Finished in 4 hours 15 and managed to avoid the speed trap going into Tarbet on the way home.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Leven 5k
A good turnout of 19 runners for the 2nd running of the club 5k race. The start is on Old Luss Road at the rear entrance to Cameron House, run a short way on the road before turning left to go down through Lomond Shores and on to the path along to Balloch beside the river Leven where it joins the cycle path to the finish just after the Vale Academy.
Late home so missed my start time and set off with the faster runners, no overtaking for me. Managed to avoid the usual too fast start and then concentrated on staying relaxed. Finished just under 22 mins about 30 secs slower than last year.
Late home so missed my start time and set off with the faster runners, no overtaking for me. Managed to avoid the usual too fast start and then concentrated on staying relaxed. Finished just under 22 mins about 30 secs slower than last year.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Ben Nevis Sat 14th Aug
Didn't fancy the stress of racing the Lomonds of Fife on Sunday so took the opportunity to take Andrew up the Ben. Drove up early Sat and set off up Heart Attack Hill from the youth hostel with a rucksack full of food, clothes and water.
Forecast was to clear in the afternoon but we went into the cloud from 2500'. Very busy, stuck to the tourist route rather than the more direct race route and windy corner still the toughest part. Refreshing drink from the Red Burn at half way then followed the zig zags into the clouds.
Thankfully the gradient eases towards the top and we summited in 2 1/2 hours. Although still in the clouds you could feel the heat from the sun and 200 plus people were sitting about enjoying a rest, some food and a few photos taken.
Set off after an hour or so, feet suffering a bit in the splintered rock. Only needed a couple of short stops on the way down reaching the river Nevis in 1 1/2 hours and stood in the cool water for a few minutes to refresh tired feet.
Forecast was to clear in the afternoon but we went into the cloud from 2500'. Very busy, stuck to the tourist route rather than the more direct race route and windy corner still the toughest part. Refreshing drink from the Red Burn at half way then followed the zig zags into the clouds.
Thankfully the gradient eases towards the top and we summited in 2 1/2 hours. Although still in the clouds you could feel the heat from the sun and 200 plus people were sitting about enjoying a rest, some food and a few photos taken.
Set off after an hour or so, feet suffering a bit in the splintered rock. Only needed a couple of short stops on the way down reaching the river Nevis in 1 1/2 hours and stood in the cool water for a few minutes to refresh tired feet.
Ben Rinnes Sat 31st July
Went up to Lossie a day early so that I could run the Ben Rinnes 5 Tops Hill Race again, 14 miles and 5000' of ascent, an out and back to Ben Rinnes taking in the tops of Little Conval and Meikle Conval, some more race info here.
The race starts and finishes with a lap round the field typical of Highland games hill races. 60 or so runners took part. The first mile or two is on farm tracks and over a golf course before the gradient increases onto the hillside. No real drive in my legs and just kept it steady over the first two hills reaching the road crossing in 61 mins. Stopped for a drink and some jelly babies before a reasonable run up Ben Rinnes, slowed towards the top where we were greeted by a squally shower.
Climbed through the summit Tor and set off back towards the road, a bit of a struggle rather than the usual downhill wheeee. Another drink and some sweets before the steep climb up Meile Conval, had to stop every 10 yards or so, made it to the flag but being passed by several others and stopped to try and refuel. Painful plod but gradually imporved and over the top of MC managed to claw a couple of places back.
The climb up Little Conval thankfully short and managed a reasonable pace for the 2 or 3 mile run down to finish in 3 hours 22 not quite a PW but felt like it. Had a lie down at the side of the games field to contemplate and recover before the traditional cold shower. Only the fast runners get a hot shower. Race winner, Joe Symmonds, finished in 1 hr 54 breaking his brothers record from last year by a couple of minutes. They come from hill racing stock, read the book.
The race starts and finishes with a lap round the field typical of Highland games hill races. 60 or so runners took part. The first mile or two is on farm tracks and over a golf course before the gradient increases onto the hillside. No real drive in my legs and just kept it steady over the first two hills reaching the road crossing in 61 mins. Stopped for a drink and some jelly babies before a reasonable run up Ben Rinnes, slowed towards the top where we were greeted by a squally shower.
Climbed through the summit Tor and set off back towards the road, a bit of a struggle rather than the usual downhill wheeee. Another drink and some sweets before the steep climb up Meile Conval, had to stop every 10 yards or so, made it to the flag but being passed by several others and stopped to try and refuel. Painful plod but gradually imporved and over the top of MC managed to claw a couple of places back.
The climb up Little Conval thankfully short and managed a reasonable pace for the 2 or 3 mile run down to finish in 3 hours 22 not quite a PW but felt like it. Had a lie down at the side of the games field to contemplate and recover before the traditional cold shower. Only the fast runners get a hot shower. Race winner, Joe Symmonds, finished in 1 hr 54 breaking his brothers record from last year by a couple of minutes. They come from hill racing stock, read the book.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Glen Loin
Started off with an anti clockwise run through Glen Loin leaving via Beallach a'Mhaim at the top of the Glen. Walked most of the hills for the easy version of the run with a nice run out between the Cobbler and Narnain. Finished in 2 hours 40 for 11 or 12 miles and 3100' of ascent.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Pappert Well
Club race, 5 miles and 1000' of ascent, 22 entries this year for this runnable lollipop route starts and finishes in Bonhill with a run round Nobleston wood to the trig point on Pappert Hill. Rain over the last week made for softer ground, ok if you have the shoes and eases the stress on the feet for what is a rough descent when its dry. Staggered start gave us lots of people to chase, reeled a few in from the trig point all the way to a sub 44 min finish to the sound of the bell. Good run with a social cakes and tablet courtesy of Pete and Mo at the finish.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Tom Na Bat
The race was part of Tomintoul Highland games, about 100 took part, a few more than the usual 15 or 20 as it was the 4th SHR Championship race. A short one at three and a half miles with 1100' of ascent.
The race starts and finishes with a lap round an undulating games field. In between it turned out to be mostly runnable as we wound our way round the small hill.
The first climb took us up to the top of Tom Na Bat all the way back down then a second climb three quarters of the way back up. Quite a bit if heather bashing required with only the odd wee sheep track to smooth the way.
Felt I could have pushed the second climb a bit harder if I had known where it finished and did manage to pick up the pace near the top when I could see the runners in front turning. Results still to come but pleased to finish in just under 40 mins.
The race starts and finishes with a lap round an undulating games field. In between it turned out to be mostly runnable as we wound our way round the small hill.
The first climb took us up to the top of Tom Na Bat all the way back down then a second climb three quarters of the way back up. Quite a bit if heather bashing required with only the odd wee sheep track to smooth the way.
Felt I could have pushed the second climb a bit harder if I had known where it finished and did manage to pick up the pace near the top when I could see the runners in front turning. Results still to come but pleased to finish in just under 40 mins.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Blusstery
Mixed weekend forecast wet n windy. Left my long run until later on Sunday in line with the improving forecast. Still too windy for Arrochar and tried Luss as its closer to home. Planned route was up Beinn Dubh, descend Mid Hill, cross the road and climb Coille Eughan Hill with a run off the Paps to finish, 9 miles with 3500' of ascent.
Set off with Helly and Jacket which stayed on all the way round. Climbed damp into the clouds on Beinn Dubh, run along the ridge into a strong wind, slightly off route on the run round to Mid Hill and had to traverse back onto the ridge. Only stopped at the usual sheltered spots for a drink. Easy run back into Glen Luss taking care not to slip.
Ran up the Glen road and into the field for the hidden bridge crossing over the swollen river. Had a good climb up CE Hill fortified by a few midget gems and some sunshine. Found a new track off the top of the Paps then into the usual ferns and brashing. The last mile through fields and farm tracks. Finished in about 2 hours 40.
Set off with Helly and Jacket which stayed on all the way round. Climbed damp into the clouds on Beinn Dubh, run along the ridge into a strong wind, slightly off route on the run round to Mid Hill and had to traverse back onto the ridge. Only stopped at the usual sheltered spots for a drink. Easy run back into Glen Luss taking care not to slip.
Ran up the Glen road and into the field for the hidden bridge crossing over the swollen river. Had a good climb up CE Hill fortified by a few midget gems and some sunshine. Found a new track off the top of the Paps then into the usual ferns and brashing. The last mile through fields and farm tracks. Finished in about 2 hours 40.
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Stoneymollan
Short rain lashed wind blown Sunday run. Ran along to the track up behind the reservoir, through the quarry and along to the top of the Stoneymollan. Plod it out, no views today, pleasantly wet underfoot which required a wee bit concentration and shoes having to work on the downhills.
Saturday, July 03, 2010
Luss Highland Games
Bright and breezy day, went along to the Luss games for the two hill races up Cruach Dhubh, one open to locals, half way up & back down 500' of ascent and 2 miles, and later on the open race which goes to the top and back down, 1100' and 3 miles.
While waiting for the hill races there were some track races which are open to locals, missed the 90m but took part in the 200m, came second courtesy of a good handicap, pipped at the post by some young speed merchant. Half an hour later 9 of us set off for the local hill race, the first four moved ahead, got into 5th place on the path before the climb up through the fields and stayed there until the end.
A couple of hours later after refueling with a cappuccino, 2 cakes and a double exprersso set off with 19 others on the longer open hill race. Started a bit slower then gradually worked my way past a few others on the climb up through the tussocks. Chose a new route on the way down ended up zig zagging through shoulder high ferns and probably lost a wee bit of time.
A nice way to spend an summer afternoon, 2nd prize in a track race and although no prizes for the hill races came away with 2 PB's.
While waiting for the hill races there were some track races which are open to locals, missed the 90m but took part in the 200m, came second courtesy of a good handicap, pipped at the post by some young speed merchant. Half an hour later 9 of us set off for the local hill race, the first four moved ahead, got into 5th place on the path before the climb up through the fields and stayed there until the end.
A couple of hours later after refueling with a cappuccino, 2 cakes and a double exprersso set off with 19 others on the longer open hill race. Started a bit slower then gradually worked my way past a few others on the climb up through the tussocks. Chose a new route on the way down ended up zig zagging through shoulder high ferns and probably lost a wee bit of time.
A nice way to spend an summer afternoon, 2nd prize in a track race and although no prizes for the hill races came away with 2 PB's.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Ben Ledi Sat 26th
My first outing to Ben Ledi, starting from the access road to the Strathyre Forest Cabins. Take the signposted path into the forest to start the climb up Ben Ledi, from the summit head along the northern ridge and follow the fenceline path to Ben Vane, returning the same way to the Beallach between the two mountains where a path leads through Stank Glen back to the side of Loch Lubnaig for a short jog back to the start. 12 miles and 4500' of ascent.
From the access road to Strathyre Forest Cabins a sign posted path winds its way up through the forest, the views open up as you head towards cliffs protecting Ben Ledi's eastern side. The path levels off and swings south to avoid the cliffs where it picks up the ridge towards the summit. A good mixture of run, wheeze and then walk.
Navigation easy on the climb on a well worn path. Very warm today but views curtailed by a gloomy haze. From Ben Ledi to Ben Vane you follow a ridgline path undulating from North to Northeast over a couple of minor tops and past a few small Lochans. You could take a more direct route but that would involve a bit of heather bashing and a lot more up and down.
The return route follows the same ridge to the low point of the Bealach just before the climb back up Ben Ledi here a good path leads down open hillside into Stank Glen then winds its way down towards the river on forest paths. Finished with an easy 3/4 mile jog along the road and a cool down in the river.
Took me just over 3 1/2 hours, nice run and I'll go back on a clear day. A few pictures here.
From the access road to Strathyre Forest Cabins a sign posted path winds its way up through the forest, the views open up as you head towards cliffs protecting Ben Ledi's eastern side. The path levels off and swings south to avoid the cliffs where it picks up the ridge towards the summit. A good mixture of run, wheeze and then walk.
Navigation easy on the climb on a well worn path. Very warm today but views curtailed by a gloomy haze. From Ben Ledi to Ben Vane you follow a ridgline path undulating from North to Northeast over a couple of minor tops and past a few small Lochans. You could take a more direct route but that would involve a bit of heather bashing and a lot more up and down.
The return route follows the same ridge to the low point of the Bealach just before the climb back up Ben Ledi here a good path leads down open hillside into Stank Glen then winds its way down towards the river on forest paths. Finished with an easy 3/4 mile jog along the road and a cool down in the river.
Took me just over 3 1/2 hours, nice run and I'll go back on a clear day. A few pictures here.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Glen Rosa
Glorious weather for the 1st long race in this years SHR champs. Starts and finishes behind Brodick Castle with 13 miles and 5500' of ascent in between. Route sort of undulates upwards and takes in 4 tops, Beinn Chliabhain, Cir Mhor, North Goat Fell and Goat Fell.
After a nice sail across from Ardrossan, with race registration on board, 122 set off for the 2 flattish mile run through the forest into Glen Rosa. You have a choice of routes to the summit of Beinn Chliabhain, I started climbing up beside Garbh Alt to get onto the ridge early. A lot of runners continue along the glen for a shorter steeper climb. Jog walk the ridge, its a tough race and you need to pace yourself.
Leaving BC you drop steeply down into Coire Daingean and contour round below the A' Chir ridge then run up Fionn Choire towards Cir Mhor, top No 2. From there you have to return to Fionn Choire then contour under Cir Mhor to the Saddle, to avoid the route along the top which is a difficult rock climb.
A gravelly path takes you up from the Saddle to North Goat Fell where you are faced with the choices and trickery of the Stacach to get to Goat Fell. My route choice better than some stuck up on the crags, there are a couple of sneaky paths to help you avoid having to rock climb.
I had dropped behind a few runners on the way up from the Saddle, however I caught most of them with a great run off Goat Fell, knowing there was no more ups to come. Stopped for a refreshing wash in the stream just before re-entering the forest. The first part of the forest is a bit up and down before turning downhill to the finish through fields behind Brodick Castle.
Finished just under 3 hrs 47, 80th out of 115 finishers, great race, scenery to die for, took a few pictures before during and after, here's a link.
Leaving BC you drop steeply down into Coire Daingean and contour round below the A' Chir ridge then run up Fionn Choire towards Cir Mhor, top No 2. From there you have to return to Fionn Choire then contour under Cir Mhor to the Saddle, to avoid the route along the top which is a difficult rock climb.
A gravelly path takes you up from the Saddle to North Goat Fell where you are faced with the choices and trickery of the Stacach to get to Goat Fell. My route choice better than some stuck up on the crags, there are a couple of sneaky paths to help you avoid having to rock climb.
I had dropped behind a few runners on the way up from the Saddle, however I caught most of them with a great run off Goat Fell, knowing there was no more ups to come. Stopped for a refreshing wash in the stream just before re-entering the forest. The first part of the forest is a bit up and down before turning downhill to the finish through fields behind Brodick Castle.
Finished just under 3 hrs 47, 80th out of 115 finishers, great race, scenery to die for, took a few pictures before during and after, here's a link.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Stoneymollan
Short long run Sat PM, along towards Renton, up the track behind the reservoir, through the quarry and along to the top of the Stoney, an easy run down and along the bypass through Christie Park and home.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Cort Ma Law
A lolipop route or as the starter put it a lower case q. About of us 80 set off up towards the Lairs from Crow Road Car park above Lennoxtown for 6 miles 1700' of ascent of the boggiest bog and burn race. After the run up to the lairs its an undulating run round the tops of Cort Ma Law and the Leckett before a short descent into a tussocky gulley and the inevitable walk out to join the outward route for a few hundred yards and then a fast run down to the finish.
Took a few more walking breaks than usual on the initial climb and once on top a wee bonus the bogs between the Lairs and Cort Ma Law relatively tame this year, ok with a bit of care.
CML to the Leckett the opposite as the number of emerald green swampy bits seemed to have multiplied, managed to hop from tussock to tussock most of the time the odd knee deep plunge saps your strength and helps to keep the pace nice and slow.
Managed the plunge in and out of the gulley without a fall for the first time although the guy in front was sludged about half way down, saved the effort to overtake. Walked out the gulley then got sort of running again back to the style. From the style its a short runnable climb back up to the Lairs and a fast run down to finish in 66 mins 4 secs.
Took a few more walking breaks than usual on the initial climb and once on top a wee bonus the bogs between the Lairs and Cort Ma Law relatively tame this year, ok with a bit of care.
CML to the Leckett the opposite as the number of emerald green swampy bits seemed to have multiplied, managed to hop from tussock to tussock most of the time the odd knee deep plunge saps your strength and helps to keep the pace nice and slow.
Managed the plunge in and out of the gulley without a fall for the first time although the guy in front was sludged about half way down, saved the effort to overtake. Walked out the gulley then got sort of running again back to the style. From the style its a short runnable climb back up to the Lairs and a fast run down to finish in 66 mins 4 secs.
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Kilpatrick Hill Race
Record entry of 117 for this blast up the Kilpatrick Braes, a short tour round Loch Humphrey, Greenside reservoir and a trot up the Slacks. 6 miles and 1400' of ascent. My tenth go at the race, been under the hour twice, in 2004 and 2009, this year I would be happy with anything close to 60.
Felt strong but weary on the road up to the bottom of the Braes. As we zig zagged up the hill I tried to run as much as possible without blowing up and also put a good effort where I had to walk. Once up on top got into running mode across the moor and along the ridge to join the farm track to Loch Humprhey, fine on downhill sections but could only manage what felt like a steady jog on the ups.
Left the track for the moor and lost a place or two on the short climb, gained them back plus a couple more on the way back down. A short up and over to the rough path along Greenside reservoir, picking up places. Dug in for the short climb up the Slacks running more than usual and gained a couple more places.
Gasping for air after the trig point but the hill is now helping and gradually gets steeper, take a couple of runners here and push hard for 50 or so yards to get clear, ease back before the steep drop off the Braes as I'm blowing out my ears. Pass a couple more tentative descenders at the top of the braes and try to catch two more in front, get close just as we join the road but they ease away to finish 20 or so seconds ahead of me. Glance at my watch towards the end, sub 60 is on and kick hard to finish in 59:45.
Felt strong but weary on the road up to the bottom of the Braes. As we zig zagged up the hill I tried to run as much as possible without blowing up and also put a good effort where I had to walk. Once up on top got into running mode across the moor and along the ridge to join the farm track to Loch Humprhey, fine on downhill sections but could only manage what felt like a steady jog on the ups.
Left the track for the moor and lost a place or two on the short climb, gained them back plus a couple more on the way back down. A short up and over to the rough path along Greenside reservoir, picking up places. Dug in for the short climb up the Slacks running more than usual and gained a couple more places.
Gasping for air after the trig point but the hill is now helping and gradually gets steeper, take a couple of runners here and push hard for 50 or so yards to get clear, ease back before the steep drop off the Braes as I'm blowing out my ears. Pass a couple more tentative descenders at the top of the braes and try to catch two more in front, get close just as we join the road but they ease away to finish 20 or so seconds ahead of me. Glance at my watch towards the end, sub 60 is on and kick hard to finish in 59:45.
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Jura Weekend
15 miles and 7500' of bog and rock including a little bit of tarmac torture to finish, thats the Jura Fell Race, must be doing something right as this was the 30th year running and the 200 or so entries were booked out within a couple of days. This was my first time although I had thought about entering for the last few years, difficult logistics and what you might call a high tariff had put me off.
Its an achievement getting there in time for the race and runners choose a variety of ways, some via Arran, others the Tayvallich launches, some by canoe, I took the slow road, car to Kennacraig, boat to Islay, boat to Jura then a cycle to Craighouse, the vestiges of modern life dropping off with each step.
Road closure due to an accident at Butterbridge on the way nearly cut the weekend short but a quick about turn through Hell's Glen and we managed to bypass the blockage.
Arrived at Kennacraig amongst many familiar faces for a lovely sail to Islay, Jura's mountains looked awsome in the evening sun. A short hop across the sound of Islay to Jura followed by an hours undulating cycle to Craighouse, an easy 8 mile coastal road even more fun with a 20kg rucksack on my back.
Craighouse is a small village, a shop, a few houses, the Jura hotel, the Jura distillery, I think around 200 people inhabit the island, most at Craighouse, race weekend must treble the islands population.
Set up tent on the hotel lawn and go for some rehydration then a walk to loosen off from my first time on a bike in a couple of years, ouch.
Race day and the weather has closed in, cloud from about 1500' below all the tops. Spent some time checking bearings and comparing notes with other runners, one good soundbite was even if you are in what appears to be a strong group don't just follow, make your own decisions, know where you are and where you want to go.
Set off at 10:30, the route has 8 timed checkpoints, the first three are over complex hills, then the three Paps with Corra Bheinn to finish.
About 210 start and soon in single file up towards CP1, target 1 hour, even before we entered the murky clag got the compass out and started checking bearings at every turn or lump, made it in 50 minutes. The second checkpoint is reached via a curving rocky ridge, I had two bearings to take me there, the change from one to the other is the hard bit. Couldn't see a thing, just kept checking the compass, now running in a group of about 10 or 12 all slightly hesitant with map and compass in hand, lost a few minutes on the way to CP2.
Marshall told me compass a bit iffy at CP2 and suggested a left turn, I wasn't going to argue, as we dropped down below the cloud the advice looked reasonable and we soon came to the small loch for the next bearing which seemed to be ok. A short traverse past the loch and a final bearing for the climb and in a few minutes we were up to CP3.
The steep drop into Glen Astille preceeds the Paps, the group now down to about 8. Across the glen we could see the runners in front disappear into the mist. Onto page 2 of my route notes. Visualise follow a stream, move leftish, then right to avoid the worst of the boulder fields. We climb back into the clag, the ground a bit different, 2000' up within a mile on ground so rough that you wouldn't throw a dead werewolf down. One guy breaks ahead but the rest of us stay reasonably close together. We summit together and trot along a very narrow ridge, probably hands and knees on a clear day, the run off is 1100' in 3/4 of a mile of tough but fun scree running, the rocks slide down and hit you from behind if you stop too long, some a bit too big for comfort.
The clag slightly thinner here and through the gloom we first hear then see the marshalls clapping us to the base of Pap No 2 for the trudge up the craggy ridge and onto page 3. Another steep climb, 1400' in just over half a mile, get a bit cold and drop to the back of the group, stop to put on my jacket, it's the last I'll see of them until the finish. Glad of the mist as I pass huge steep cliffs just before the top. Another ridge run then hang a right when you pass a ruin. A steep two bearing descent follows, 1500' down in half a mile, a bit stop start over heather and scree, see another runner away from my line, ignore him, stick to the lines I picked and pop out under the clag with Pap 3 in front.
Catch another runner on the climb, he seems ok but a bit unsure, chat him up the hill, we debate a few route choices, the tops a laugh, boulders everywhere. We have a wee break on the top, chat to the marshalls before clambering off down through rather big chuckies, my new companion, an Ileach keeps pushing us left into steeper rockier ground, not happy I take us back onto the planned bearing and we work our way down, a sort of flailing falling kinda running through ankle snapping scree. My pal waves me on, he is slow going down. As I leave the last Pap the clag clears the tops!
The last hurrah as the cheery marshall points out is just up that wee gully to the top of Corra Bheinn then you'll have a lovely run off to Three Arch Bridge and a final 3 mile tarmac trot. I have now had cramp in at least 3 different leg muscles in turn, both legs at once of course, takes your mind off the pain of going uphill. I reach the gulley after a few minutes and although near vertical for some reason it is a joy to scramble through. From there its a short push to the top. The marshall kindly supplies some isotonic lucozade which soon kicks in on the 30 odd minute run down the deer tracks to the final checkpoint at 3AB. More lucozade and the first couple of road miles comfy, pass a few people all encouraging. The last mile weary, only boost is I manage to pass a walking runner.
Ignore the prize giving in favour of a shower, a cold one at that, return to the hall to pick up my tee shirt and certificate, free tea coffee and cakes then go for a lie down before the nights entertainment.
Food and drink in the busy hotel bar keeps me going until about 1:00 am then drift off to sleep to the sound of a thumping Ceildh in the village hall.
Sunday dawns to sunshine and a midge dispersing breeze for a leisurely journey home. Starts out well when a kindly nurse offers to take my rucksack back to Feolin while I enjoy the cycle. Only hiccough is another road closure due to a bad accident at Ardgarten requiring a detour through Crainlarich.
Results now out and I was 193 out of 199 finishers, with 10 or 15 others timed out at various checkpoints, I finished in 6 hours 17 mins and 20 seconds. A superb getaway weekend of smiles and hills. I took a few pictures, link here. Race pictures from a local photographer starting to appear here.
Its an achievement getting there in time for the race and runners choose a variety of ways, some via Arran, others the Tayvallich launches, some by canoe, I took the slow road, car to Kennacraig, boat to Islay, boat to Jura then a cycle to Craighouse, the vestiges of modern life dropping off with each step.
Road closure due to an accident at Butterbridge on the way nearly cut the weekend short but a quick about turn through Hell's Glen and we managed to bypass the blockage.
Arrived at Kennacraig amongst many familiar faces for a lovely sail to Islay, Jura's mountains looked awsome in the evening sun. A short hop across the sound of Islay to Jura followed by an hours undulating cycle to Craighouse, an easy 8 mile coastal road even more fun with a 20kg rucksack on my back.
Craighouse is a small village, a shop, a few houses, the Jura hotel, the Jura distillery, I think around 200 people inhabit the island, most at Craighouse, race weekend must treble the islands population.
Set up tent on the hotel lawn and go for some rehydration then a walk to loosen off from my first time on a bike in a couple of years, ouch.
Race day and the weather has closed in, cloud from about 1500' below all the tops. Spent some time checking bearings and comparing notes with other runners, one good soundbite was even if you are in what appears to be a strong group don't just follow, make your own decisions, know where you are and where you want to go.
Set off at 10:30, the route has 8 timed checkpoints, the first three are over complex hills, then the three Paps with Corra Bheinn to finish.
About 210 start and soon in single file up towards CP1, target 1 hour, even before we entered the murky clag got the compass out and started checking bearings at every turn or lump, made it in 50 minutes. The second checkpoint is reached via a curving rocky ridge, I had two bearings to take me there, the change from one to the other is the hard bit. Couldn't see a thing, just kept checking the compass, now running in a group of about 10 or 12 all slightly hesitant with map and compass in hand, lost a few minutes on the way to CP2.
Marshall told me compass a bit iffy at CP2 and suggested a left turn, I wasn't going to argue, as we dropped down below the cloud the advice looked reasonable and we soon came to the small loch for the next bearing which seemed to be ok. A short traverse past the loch and a final bearing for the climb and in a few minutes we were up to CP3.
The steep drop into Glen Astille preceeds the Paps, the group now down to about 8. Across the glen we could see the runners in front disappear into the mist. Onto page 2 of my route notes. Visualise follow a stream, move leftish, then right to avoid the worst of the boulder fields. We climb back into the clag, the ground a bit different, 2000' up within a mile on ground so rough that you wouldn't throw a dead werewolf down. One guy breaks ahead but the rest of us stay reasonably close together. We summit together and trot along a very narrow ridge, probably hands and knees on a clear day, the run off is 1100' in 3/4 of a mile of tough but fun scree running, the rocks slide down and hit you from behind if you stop too long, some a bit too big for comfort.
The clag slightly thinner here and through the gloom we first hear then see the marshalls clapping us to the base of Pap No 2 for the trudge up the craggy ridge and onto page 3. Another steep climb, 1400' in just over half a mile, get a bit cold and drop to the back of the group, stop to put on my jacket, it's the last I'll see of them until the finish. Glad of the mist as I pass huge steep cliffs just before the top. Another ridge run then hang a right when you pass a ruin. A steep two bearing descent follows, 1500' down in half a mile, a bit stop start over heather and scree, see another runner away from my line, ignore him, stick to the lines I picked and pop out under the clag with Pap 3 in front.
Catch another runner on the climb, he seems ok but a bit unsure, chat him up the hill, we debate a few route choices, the tops a laugh, boulders everywhere. We have a wee break on the top, chat to the marshalls before clambering off down through rather big chuckies, my new companion, an Ileach keeps pushing us left into steeper rockier ground, not happy I take us back onto the planned bearing and we work our way down, a sort of flailing falling kinda running through ankle snapping scree. My pal waves me on, he is slow going down. As I leave the last Pap the clag clears the tops!
The last hurrah as the cheery marshall points out is just up that wee gully to the top of Corra Bheinn then you'll have a lovely run off to Three Arch Bridge and a final 3 mile tarmac trot. I have now had cramp in at least 3 different leg muscles in turn, both legs at once of course, takes your mind off the pain of going uphill. I reach the gulley after a few minutes and although near vertical for some reason it is a joy to scramble through. From there its a short push to the top. The marshall kindly supplies some isotonic lucozade which soon kicks in on the 30 odd minute run down the deer tracks to the final checkpoint at 3AB. More lucozade and the first couple of road miles comfy, pass a few people all encouraging. The last mile weary, only boost is I manage to pass a walking runner.
Ignore the prize giving in favour of a shower, a cold one at that, return to the hall to pick up my tee shirt and certificate, free tea coffee and cakes then go for a lie down before the nights entertainment.
Food and drink in the busy hotel bar keeps me going until about 1:00 am then drift off to sleep to the sound of a thumping Ceildh in the village hall.
Sunday dawns to sunshine and a midge dispersing breeze for a leisurely journey home. Starts out well when a kindly nurse offers to take my rucksack back to Feolin while I enjoy the cycle. Only hiccough is another road closure due to a bad accident at Ardgarten requiring a detour through Crainlarich.
Results now out and I was 193 out of 199 finishers, with 10 or 15 others timed out at various checkpoints, I finished in 6 hours 17 mins and 20 seconds. A superb getaway weekend of smiles and hills. I took a few pictures, link here. Race pictures from a local photographer starting to appear here.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Stoneymollan Sun 23rd May
Nice short run / walk this morning, 6 or 7 miles up the Stoney and along to Carman Reservoir. Met Jimmy out for a walk round after his 70+ mile two day run this week, walked round to the finish with him. Nice walk, nice day.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Arrochar Alps Sat 15th
Todays excursion was all about steep ups and downs, close on 7000 feet of climbing within 12 or 13 miles. Starting out from Succouth straight up Narnain then Ime and Vane with the 4 mile run back down Glen Loin to finish.
Took the first climb up Narnain nice and steady covering the 3000 feet and 2 1/2 miles in an hour 25, overtook a few groups of walkers on the way and had the cool breezy summit to myself for a short break to refuel.
The run into the Bealach a'Mhaim a bit stop start as I kept crossing the rubble strewn path trying to find a better way down. Crossing the stile at the bottom I could see some walkers further up, something to aim for. A steady plod brought me to the summit cairn and a seat out of the wind.
It's a steep drop off the back of Ime into Glas Bhealach but peace and quiet again as only a few pass through this glen. I start down a narrow twisty track which drops you on the wrong side of the Bhealach and I soon leave it to traverse east to avoid the boggy run towards the final drop into Lag Uaine, too soon, and I have to slow up to pick my way through steep lumps, bumps and boulders.
Chose a new line for the run into Lag Uaine to the south of a rocky outcrop, after a couple of double backs found a nice path running down the crest of a small ridge, turned at the bottom to prime the memory cells, that's always a tough climb.
The direct route up Vane would be a challenge when you are fresh so I loop round to take the sting out of the steepest sections and pick my way through the many sloping terraces between the crags. Hit the ridge and its only a short way to the summit, another wee rest before the tricky run off.
Quite a few walkers going up and down and a lot of loose rock and dirt about so take it nice and easy though the knobbly bits that give the mountain its name. After clearing the crags and cliffs a nice steady plod to the bog at the bottom, reached the Glen Loin track just over 4 hours after I set out.
Run all the ups through the glen to the finish in 4 hours 45. The tide is in and wash the remnants of the bog away in the loch before shotgunning a recovery of 2 cans of full fat Bru.
Pleased to complete the planned route and felt fine, no major physical or mental distress, only the odd consideration given to easier routes on the first climb of the day and by the time I reached Ben Ime, no worries and plenty of drive left in the legs for the trials of Ben Vane and what felt like a nice short run out through Glen Loin. Great views all the way and a couple of hail showers on the tops of Narnain and Vane to remind me winters not long gone. Some pictures from today's run .
Sunday and made time for a recovery run going up behind the Carman reservoir, through the quarry and along to the top of the StoneyM, a run down the track and along the bypass to finish.
Took the first climb up Narnain nice and steady covering the 3000 feet and 2 1/2 miles in an hour 25, overtook a few groups of walkers on the way and had the cool breezy summit to myself for a short break to refuel.
The run into the Bealach a'Mhaim a bit stop start as I kept crossing the rubble strewn path trying to find a better way down. Crossing the stile at the bottom I could see some walkers further up, something to aim for. A steady plod brought me to the summit cairn and a seat out of the wind.
It's a steep drop off the back of Ime into Glas Bhealach but peace and quiet again as only a few pass through this glen. I start down a narrow twisty track which drops you on the wrong side of the Bhealach and I soon leave it to traverse east to avoid the boggy run towards the final drop into Lag Uaine, too soon, and I have to slow up to pick my way through steep lumps, bumps and boulders.
Chose a new line for the run into Lag Uaine to the south of a rocky outcrop, after a couple of double backs found a nice path running down the crest of a small ridge, turned at the bottom to prime the memory cells, that's always a tough climb.
The direct route up Vane would be a challenge when you are fresh so I loop round to take the sting out of the steepest sections and pick my way through the many sloping terraces between the crags. Hit the ridge and its only a short way to the summit, another wee rest before the tricky run off.
Quite a few walkers going up and down and a lot of loose rock and dirt about so take it nice and easy though the knobbly bits that give the mountain its name. After clearing the crags and cliffs a nice steady plod to the bog at the bottom, reached the Glen Loin track just over 4 hours after I set out.
Run all the ups through the glen to the finish in 4 hours 45. The tide is in and wash the remnants of the bog away in the loch before shotgunning a recovery of 2 cans of full fat Bru.
Pleased to complete the planned route and felt fine, no major physical or mental distress, only the odd consideration given to easier routes on the first climb of the day and by the time I reached Ben Ime, no worries and plenty of drive left in the legs for the trials of Ben Vane and what felt like a nice short run out through Glen Loin. Great views all the way and a couple of hail showers on the tops of Narnain and Vane to remind me winters not long gone. Some pictures from today's run .
Sunday and made time for a recovery run going up behind the Carman reservoir, through the quarry and along to the top of the StoneyM, a run down the track and along the bypass to finish.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Stoneymollen
Thurs night club race, 4 1/2 miles with 1000' of climbing, good turn out of 22 for the race which is run as a handicap. To overcome the clubs navigational frailty several marshals were dispatched to key points on the course, giving out some good motivational stuff as well as directions. Felt like hard work up the initial 600' climb the odd glimpse of a runner in front. Leaving the track for the hillside I could see a few specks in the distance to chase. Made it to the trig, managed to avoid the boggy ditches but walked one of the steep banks. A quick glance up, empty hillside, at least its downhill now. Slight route change this year to skirt round the side of Overton Muir, longer but more runnable. Steep climb to the top of the last hill, oops another wee walk at the top. The run down steep but too short before a hop and skip through the obstacle course leading to the track. Could hear the guy behind now. Jogged the short climb towards the radio mast then quickly down the track where I managed to pass my only victim in this years race. The last few hundred yards are on road through a yard then in front of Overton cemy, a right turn down under the flyover and back to the club. Finished in 41 and 9 seconds about 20 seconds slower than my best for the old route. Tea and cakes in the hall and a laugh.
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