Clwydian run

A good longer outing in the Clwydians yesterday, the final significant outing of the year: still enjoying the excellent spell of stable, cold weather. Started from Cadole with Neil, running along the leat all the way to the Pantymwyn road. Then along the paths to the centre of Cilcain, up the lanes to Pedair Groesffordd and up to the Arthur col. Then the full Famau ridge along OD via Moel Llys y Coed and Moel Dywyll to a very cold summit, with significant wind chill. Down to Penbarras, then the forest car park, and back to Cadole via the normal path to Loggerheads. Went for a family walk to Aber Falls today, with intervals in the evening: yet more perfect cold and clear weather. So a good year draws to a close. Hard to pinpoint the highlights, but the Laugavegur has to be at the top, followed by the Capelet traverse, sub-3 at Edinburgh and the other PBs, some good, varied climbing, the Rab MM and the two classic long Welsh fell races.

Arenig Fawr

Peaks: Arenig Fawr (2802ft/854m), Arenig Fawr south
Area: Arenig, Eryri
The superb spell of anti-cyclonic weather continues, with cloud to the east but all the Welsh peaks crisp and clear. Far too cold for rock climbing, all the snow gone, so it had to be a hill-walk. Ambled up to Llyn Arenig Fawr with Rich and Neil, then the enjoyable ridge to Y Castell and great views of a hoar-frosted mountain framed against a deep blue sky. The summit ridge was desperately cold, a bitter east wind cutting into us and rendering lunch a trial of endurance. Fantastic crystal clear views to Wyddfa, Rhinog, Moelwyn, Cader. Finger-length frost crystals coated the fence as we jogged up to the south peak before gratefully ducking out of the wind towards Nant y Pysgod and the long valley track north to the road. Jogged back to the car. Always a lovely traverse, made particularly good by today's weather and a couple of pints in Bala.

Rosey Nosey fell race

Race: Rosey Nosey fell race (3.75m/600ft)
Time/position: 27.10 (4/13)
My 35th and final race of the year today. A very enjoyable and friendly festive outing from Graianrhyd, leaving the pub south along the bridleway to Llyn Cyfynwy, down south to the road then along the tracks (and very awkward, completely trackless deep heather) to the mast on the little 'summit'. Then back via the lakeside and icy paths. Managed a very predictable 4th place, couldn't quite stick with the pace of Neil and Jez. Another nice addition from Martin, with enjoyable after-race drinks at the pub.

Hope Mountain run

A good-paced run up Hope Mountain from HK today, conscious that I'm not going to do much over the next few days! A few runs in London last weekend, and a run up Moel Famau on Friday to complement the long Llangollen run. Rather mild and dull in the hills today.

The 'horseshoe horseshoe'

Peaks: Cyrn y Brain, Moel y Faen, Moel y Gamelin
Decided to extend last week's Llangollen-Ponderosa run this morning, with a significant extension along the Gamelin ridge. Left the town with Neil in mild, breezy conditions, to gradually climb up to the OD path below Dinbren. Then the fantastic contouring running below the Eglwyseg crags to World's End. Feeling slightly tired after yesterday's climbing, but we set a fair pace across the heather to the boggy summit of Cyrn y Brain with the wind picking up and ominous black clouds threatening. Down quickly to Ponderosa in 90 mins from town, then the steep double climb up to the summits of Moel y Faen and finally Moel y Gamelin. These climbs are tough enough from the top of the pass, but even worse after running from Llangollen! Took a 2 minute break on Gamelin with the entire route visible. Descended steeply into the wind to the col, then great running SE down the Conquering Hero bridleway to Rhewl. A final off-road sting in the tail led to Llandynan then down a narrow hillside path to Llantysilio farm and the excellent riverside path back to Llangollen (2:40?). Hard to imagine a better running loop than this in NE Wales, would make a great race.

North Buttress, Tryfan

Peaks: Tryfan
Routes: North Buttress (D) Led p.1,2,3,4
The sustained period of high pressure and decent winter climbing conditions ended just as my leave kicked in. Rather annoying, but a nice forecast meant a possibility of rock climbing with Alwyn. In the event, the weather was not ideal: snow patches, low cloud and a strengthening westerly wind. So took the bold decision to go for a long route on the east face, in an attempt to stay out of the wind and retain some feeling in our hands. I think North Buttress was among the first multi-pitch climbs I ever did, 17 years ago almost to the day. It's a nice easy route, ideal in these rather marginal conditions. I led off up the first groove, which was wet except for the holds on the edge of the groove. Didn't waste much time as my hands were losing all feeling, but enjoyed the big holds and unique Tryfan atmosphere. A steep rib above the groove leads interestingly to the stance. Also led the second pitch up a crack in the next groove, followed by a traverse left to a higher rib. The third pitch was soaking wet, but easy. We then scrambled up to Terrace Wall on wet snow and old neve. Far too cold and snowy to continue, obvious risk of verglas, so continued up North Gully. This was a tad awkward, in trainers on old frozen snow patches, but also satisfying. The summit was windy and verglassed, so we retreated down the south ridge and back along the terrace. Agonising hot flushes as the blood returned to my fingers.

Border League, Mold

Race: Mold 5m (Border League round 3)
Time/position: 29:04 (25th/248)
Semi-paralysed by a ludicrously stiff neck and upper back, but strangely came away from the usual hilly 5m circuit around Nercwys with my highest ever Border League finish. Felt much better than on the 10k last week, perhaps because the hilly course suited me better. Went for it up to Nercwys, then tried to hang on and pick up as many places as I could on the 'descent'. These tactics worked quite well: an encouraging outing. A pint in Grianrhyd was a nice way to warm-down. Ran up Famau in freezing mist on Friday morning, but otherwise a low mileage week affected by a mild cold.

Llangollen run

Peaks: Cyrn y Brain
More crisp, cold weather, so it seemed an obvious choice to head to Llangollen and run up through the woods to the OD path below the Eglwyseg crags (as with the long Llangollen-HK epic Dave and I did during Iceland preparation last June). We enjoyed the superb contouring path below Craig Arthur in low winter sunshine. Rather icy as we approached World's End, but superbly clear. Since we were both recovering from colds, taking it easy, it seemed sensible to follow OD up to the edge of Llandegla forest, then follow the broad path (some snow, lots of ice) along the fence to the top of Cyrn y Brain - and great views to Arenig, Rhinogau, Shropshire. A cold descent in low winter sun, then thawed out in the Ponderosa (90 mins). An obvious extension would be to take in Gamelin, then descend back to town.

Helena Tipping 10k

Race: Helena Tipping 10k, Wrexham
Time/Position: 36:46 (19th/269)
Managed a 10k pb by the skin of my teeth at the Helena Tipping 10k in Wrexham yesterday. Shaved 7 seconds off the time set in Mold last year, to at least give the satisfaction of setting pbs at marathon, half and 10k during 2008 (this was my first 10k of 2008!). Rather disappointed not to have gone quicker, though. Very similar to last year's conditions: very cold, although sunny and quite icy this year, which unsurprisingly caused problems - particularly on the notorious fifth mile, which seems far longer than the rest. Went through 3 miles in 17 mins dead, on for a good time (exactly as last year), then slowed considerably to mile 5 before picking it up for a reasonable finish to dip inside my pb. We ran up Moel Famau on Friday night in an unfavourable combination of conditions: dark, misty, windy, snow/slush/ice...

Cloud inversion

A classic cloud inversion this morning. A very heavy frost in HK, ice-draped trees and frozen fields. Left the village in thick fog, with Neil, and ran up to Shordley where it gradually cleared to give a perfectly clear run up to the top of Waun y Llyn with blue skies above and a dense blanket of cloud below. Then ran along the ridge path and back to foggy, frozen HK in about 1:35. Took M and E up to the top later the same day. On Friday, tested my new Petzl by running half way up Famau in the dark. On the 22nd, we did another good lengthy run from the Collie to Cilcain, Dywyll, Famau (for the 32nd time this year?) and down via the fireroads.

Penmaenmawr fell race

Race: Penmaenmawr fell race (11m/1500ft)
Time/position: 1:28:53 (23rd/220)
The curtain closed, in terms of major events at least, on an interesting year yesterday at Penmaenmawr. One of my favourite races, it's an elegant and satisfying route: a sort of 'tour de Tal y Fan' which loops the little mountain. Rather heavy conditions underfoot, particularly for the boggy section, but not much wind. In many ways, it's not really a true fell race, so I was a bit too conservative on the first gradual climb to the road. It's crucial to retain some strength for the long bog-trot beyond the bwlch. I try to treat this section as a 'peak', and managed to keep the pace up fairly well through the water and (occasional) thigh-deep marsh. Started to push it rather too late, after the quarry checkpoint, and managed to pick up three places on the long descent, partly by using the steep short-cuts plunging through the bracken (about nine minutes from CP3 to finish?). Soup and beer with Neil and Vic in the Dwygyfylchi rounded off an enjoyable day.

Border League, Hoylake

Race: Hoylake 9.6k (Border League round 2)
Time/position: 35:58 (41/294)
Blustery and wet conditions for the second round of this year's Border League yesterday at Hoylake. Another average performance for me. A fast first three miles with the wind at our backs, out to Leasowe lighthouse, then a real struggle back into the wind. I was going quite well, picking up places, but kept getting exposed before a large group offered the chance of shelter! A schoolboy tactical error saw me start my sprint finish too early - passed by 4 or 5 just before the finish as a large group of runners finished within a few seconds of each other. Felt rather tired after Thursday's run, and another long one on Friday up Famau from the Collie via Cilcain and Dywyll.

Bodfari-Prestatyn OD run

An interesting and enjoyable run along Offa's Dyke from Bodfari to the sea at Prestatyn earlier today. Left Bodfari with Neil in misty, dank conditions. Slightly hungover, so the steep haul up the side of Moel y Gaer was unwelcome, to say the least. I'd done most of the route before, but it still takes you by surprise with its constant climbs and switchbacks: quite hard work over Cefn Du and Moel Maenefa to the A55. Through Rhuallt to the long climb over Mynydd y Cwm to Marian Ffrith. The final section, over Prestatyn hillside is also really enjoyable: shame it was so misty. A peculiar finish, covered in mud, through the shoppers on Prestatyn high street all the way to the beach (2:15 in total).

Clwydian hills fell race

Race: Clwydian Hills (10m/3100ft)
Time/Position: 1:25:11 (8th/89)
An encouraging performance in yesterday's race, which I've always felt to be the toughest local (NE Wales) fell race: constant steep climbs and fast descents with no real respite throughout the course. It really makes the most of the range! Conditions yesterday were challenging, a combination of snow, slush and deep mud making life tricky in places. I wasn't too far off the pace for once, a definite improvement. Kept it going quite well over the initial long climb up Moel Dywyll, then a fast descent down to the Vale side, before the brutal long climb back onto the ridge. Picked a good line through the heather to Nant y Ne and managed to climb the dreaded gully (wading through waist-deep snow at the top) reasonably quickly, before a good fast descent, with more drifts in places, allowed me to continue to pick up a few places before an unwelcome sprint finish in which I just about kept my 8th place. My third time up Moel Famau in as many days. Ran up with Neil on Friday night. It was virtually dark as we reached the top under glowering cloud, but thick snow drifts (in places) helped with the visibility, if not the running. Then had a family walk up from Penbarras in the slush with Rich and Mel on the Saturday.

OMM Borrowdale

Race: OMM
Peaks: Base Brown, Dale Head
Area: Borrowdale/Buttermere, Lake District
Time/Position: 3:59:43 / 19th from 136 finishers (400? entrants)
The weekend's events at Borrowdale have already entered into the realms of fell running and mountaineering folklore. Suffice to say it was a memorable experience, with a striking contrast between the calm competence of the competitors and media hyperbole/deliberate lack of context. Partner Paul and I spent a windy Friday night sleeping in the car at Seathwaite, then began the C course at 9.12. Wasn't really the course I wanted to do (would have preferred long score) but nevertheless happy to be there and looking forward to the challenge of what we all knew were forecast to be very bad conditions later on. A bit windy, but dry with a fairly high cloud base as we set off up Styhead gill for the first checkpoint near a stream source below a spur running down from the summit of Base Brown. Began to get quite windy, and rather wet, as we climbed to check one. But then conditions got considerably better as we dropped down into the Sour Milk Gill valley leading down to Raven Crag. Going well at this point, climbing up to the plateau and easily locating the eastern knoll containing checkpoint two. Shortly before the check we had a taste of things to come with a ferocious gust which knocked us sideways. But the wind was at our backs for a fast descent over tussocks to the Honister road. The number of runners was already diminishing, and very few seemed to choose our route up to the third check, which involved contouring the hill to pick up a wall above Seatoller and fence line leading to the plateau above Tongue Gill. At this point, things got really interesting. The rain was now torrential, and stingingly horizontal, with the wind becoming unusually strong: the 110mph gusts forecast hadn't yet materialised, but began to as we ploughed along a series of little spurs very quickly with the wind at our backs. After checkpoint 3, we had to head back the way we'd come, to the col above Tongue gill. But with the wind in our face, this was a real struggle. I was blown over quite a bit, and was blown headlong into Paul at one point. One unavoidable fact now presented itself. The shortened course directed us from check 3 to check 9. But the obvious route was over the Dale Head ridge via the summit! I'd done this ridge a couple of years ago: it was clearly going to be awkward. We forded a stream in spate then began the long climb. My map was ripped from my hands early on, and it was hard to move fast enough to generate enough heat to counter the increasing cold. Impossible to stay dry, and knocked to the ground even on this lee slope. The crossing of Dale Head itself and along the ridge below Hindscarth will stay with me for some time. A biblical struggle, all pairs linking arms for extra stability. I've been knocked down by wind in the mountains before, but never as frequently as this, and I've never been pinned to the ground for such sustained periods of time. We stuck to the windward side of the ridge and made slow progress along the ridge - a real challenge, but I felt fine and warm at this point, and even managed to run some of the ridge which was a very satisfying and enjoyable test of hillcraft. A bellyflop into the wind got us over the fence and down to checkpoint 9 in a shallow gully. An easy run-in to the last checkpoint in heavy rain saw us checked in at the overnight camp in around 3:59, a pleasing 4th place at this point. Got the tent pitched in very bad conditions, changed clothes and we were just about to get the stoves on when somebody shouted that the race had been cancelled. Some disappointment, particularly since this is the second time I've retired from the OMM in circumstances beyond my control! As we took the tent down, a tremendous gust ripped it from the pegs, shearing one of the poles. It took flight with all my gear still inside, landing on barbed wire and tearing the fabric. Still, I've had it for 20 years and it's done me proud. If the trip over Dale Head has already assumed legendary status, the walk back to the car at HQ was equally memorable: wouldn't have missed it for the world. The winds got progressively stronger as we reached the top of the pass, with deep roars preceding the worst gusts and runners knocked over and in some cases pushed back down the road whilst on the ground. I remember looking up at one point into what seemed like a wall of white water as river and hillside merged. Great stuff, and thoroughly enjoyable with the satisfaction of completing the course in trying conditions. The road down to Seathwaite was waist deep as we made our way back to the barn, cars floating and Sour Milk gill an Alpine torrent. Nice spirit of camaraderie as we recovered with soup in the barn, and retired to the car for dry clothes, warm sleeping backs and glenfiddich. Passed a pleasant evening, and pushed the car out of the mud next morning, when the magnitude of the media storm gradually became apparent.

Frodsham bouldering

A quick evening bouldering trip to Frodsham yesterday in pleasant autumnal sunshine: soft light and falling leaves. As usual, this ferociously steep crag spat me off almost everything, but some low level traverses and a route or two (twin cracks etc) made for a good workout. Finished off with a jog over Woodhouse hill, and a small section of the sandstone trail. Resting now before the OMM this weekend. The forecast is absolutely shocking, so all bets are off...

British fell race relays

Race: British fell race relay championship
Area: Llangynhafal (Moel Famau, Moel y Gaer)
Time/Position: 1:25:01, leg 2 (46/119)
A really enjoyable first for me last Sunday, as the British fell race relay championships came to the Clwydians. Buckley got a team together for this cracking event, really well organised with a great atmosphere (130-odd teams of 6 runners). I ran with Jez on the second, longest leg. Genuinely exciting as we waited with the other teams at the start above Llangynhafal, watching for team-mate Dave to crest the ridge at the end of the first leg and hand over the 'baton'. Our leg was about 9 miles, 2800ft of climbing, really making the most of the range. Went quite well, with a long climb onto the ridge, then descent down to the reservoir above Cilcain, then another long climb back SW to the bridleway and up to the top of Moel Famau. Great running down the fence line, then the 'hot foot up famau' route. Steep, muddy descent which suited me well, followed by the desperate climb up Moel y Gaer. Then another climb before a terrific eyeballs-out descent down to Nant y Ne, then contouring round to the final climb and exhilarating finish. We finished 46th on our leg, gaining 17 places, in 1:25. Clearly, a very strong field, with the elite of British fell running present. Worked quite well as a pair, Jez slowing down for me on the climbs, while I was able to make up some ground on the steeper descents. Great to be part of a team event like this: we managed a respectable 51st place overall (4:31 cumulative time) after the four legs.

Eglwyseg climbing

Crag: Trevor rocks, Eglwyseg
Routes/grade: Clue, So? (f4: led), Forensic Science (f5: led), Forever the Suspect (f6a+: sec), Fudd for Thought (f5: led), Haven't got a clue (f6a: led), SND (f4: sec)
First real climbing for several months this evening, with Alwyn on the bolted routes at Trevor. Conditions were hardly ideal: a cold wind meant cold hands, which along with inevitably muddy shoes and damp, greasy rock made life difficult. In addition, these routes are becoming very polished, despite their less than classic nature, but I suppose the reason is obvious. Started with a steady lead of Clue, So (f4) in a cold wind, then led Forensic Science (f5) with muddy shoes (another route I'd done before). Clumsily seconded Forever the Suspect (f6a+), delicate and technical. This is one of the better routes here, but conditions were poor for this sort of climbing: small, sharp holds hard to feel in the cold wind, and I took several rests. Lots of drainage streaks made most routes impossible, but I did manage a lead of Fudd for Thought (f5). Short and slabby, complete with seepage and therefore awkward. Finished with a reasonable lead of Haven't got a clue (f6a with one bolt grab in slippery conditions). Nice calcite rock, little pinch grips, but all over after 10m. Finished with SND (f4), and followed up with a run from Trevor up and over Dinas Bran, past the castle and down to the old race route contouring the hill to climb back up to Panorama. Nice autumunal scenes, but always exhausting to run after climbing (esp given intervals yesterday).

Border league, Christleton

Race: Christleton 9.5k (border league race 1)
Time/Position: 36:21 (44/289)
First short road race since April on Sunday: the first fixture in the 08-09 Border League season. As such, it was inevitably a shock to the system, and tough going, after a summer in the hills. Reasonably satisfied with 44th place, from a seemingly weaker than usual field of 289. A beautiful sunny day, though, for my second attempt at this nice rural Cheshire circuit. I'm definitely some way off the pace at the moment, maybe a minute or more off last year's 10k pace. Been back on the intervals for a few months now, but again generally a few seconds down. Ran up Famau last two Friday's, but in general fairly slack with the training.

Rab mountain marathon

Race: Rab Mountain Marathon
Peaks: Carrock Fell, Bowscale Fell, Little Cockup, Skiddaw, Lonscale Fell, Coomb
Area: Back o'Skidda, Cumbria
Time/pts/position: Day 1(300), Day 2(210) 9th/54 SM
A fantastic weekend at the Rab mountain marathon, Back O'Skidda in the northern Lakes. Really pleased with my performance, especially since it was basically my first proper mountain marathon after last year's disappointing 'half OMM'! Slept in Dan's van on Friday night and woke to a promising morning: weather ideal throughout, largely sunny but relatively cool. The Rab is a fantastic event: score classes only, so a real navigational test, and it was good to be able to enter solo. Formed a vague plan after getting the controls on day one. After a couple of easy controls, contoured round Low Pike to Carrock Beck and a third control, then steeply up Miton Hill to another just west of Carrock Fell summit. Sunny now, with tremendous views over the interesting terrain south to Blencathra and north to Galloway. A great area for this kind of event, feels remote. The toughest leg then followed, with my plans for a high scoring check over Bowscale Fell involving an awful descent down bracken and boulders to Roundhouse - fell face first into a bog at one point. Then tried to pick the best line over east shoulder of Bowscale to the high scoring control hidden in a sheepfold above a small beck. Headed west easily to a control on Blackhazel Beck and took stock at half way point. Realised I was well ahead of my cautious schedule, and feeling strong, so climbed over Mungrisdale below Blencathra to pick up more points via Sinen Gill. Worked gradually back, remaining cautious, picking up two more controls via the handy Cumbrian way path, descending past Whitewater dash to the valley NE towards Meal Fell, then cunningly NW through the narrow hidden valley of Trusmadoor. Superb access to gain a final control then very satisfyingly back (but 25 mins early, far too cautious) to the lovely campsite in a wooded glade. Rather cold night, feeling limitations of equipment (my sac weighed nearly 7kgs, not exactly state of the art), but meeting up with Dan and friends. I was in 11th place in my category, with 300 points after day one. After some drizzly rain in the night, started at 8am next day in cool clear weather. An immediate climb up Little Cockup was a good wake-up call, I then chose to head immediately south to go for the big value controls on Skiddaw, partly because a cloud inversion was obviously developing and I wanted to see it! Very few runners headed up for these big checks, and nobody chose the same route as me, which was odd as the second day route immediately leapt out at me, and I stuck to my initial plan throughout. A very steep climb through the mist lead above Dead Crags to the shoulder of Skiddaw itself. Then the highlight of the weekend, when I popped through the mist to great views out over the Solway firth and then great running contouring Skiddaw in bright early sunshine with a clearing cloud inversion in the valley to the north - no other runners in sight - to pick up a big value control hidden in a beck below Little Man. Then more contouring over Jenkin Hill to pick up another on Lonsdale Hill, again alone. Then down in superb weather to the Cumbrian Way, but this time heading NE up the Caldew Valley. A good decision, but again cautious. Headed up the last real climb NW to a control below Coomb, then a line across moorland to Iron Crag and a poor, very steep route down to Roughton Gill, losing concentration after 11 hours in the saddle! One more hard-to-find control then back to the finish in Fellside, too early again, but deliberately cautious, just wanting to finish respectably and without penalties. Managed a reasonable 210 points on day two, for a total of 510 points and 9th senior male overall (no seperate solo class), perhaps 23rd in total from a few hundred entries. Very pleased with this, bodes well for future events, and nice to be able to do this one solo. Really enjoyable and satisfying weekend.

Pedol Peris fell race

Race: Peris Horseshoe fell race (18m/8500ft)
Peaks: Elidir Fach, Elidir Fawr, Y Garn, Glyder Fawr, Lliwedd, Snowdon, Moel Cynghorion
Area: Glyderau/Wyddfa, Eryri
Time/Position: 4:50:31 (29/62)
A really disappointing performance in the Peris horseshoe race on Saturday. Felt I'd prepared quite well for it, had the mileage and the hills in my legs, but things really didn't go to plan. The first half went quite well, steady from Llanberis through the quarries - quite interesting in near perfect conditions of high cloud and occasional sunshine. Then steeply up to and over Elidir Fach before the scree climb up to Elidir Fawr. Started to pick up places over the awkward terrain on the ridge down to the Bwlch, then steady running on the contouring path before the long climb up Y Garn. Good descent down to Llyn y Cwn, then direct up the stream bed to Glyder Fawr (for me, slower than the normal route). Over the top of Glyder Fawr, then a good descent picking the best line in the sunshine down to Pen y Pass in 2:01. So quite well placed, and feeling good. As a result, I didn't take on board enough water and that was to be my downfall. Went well up to towards Lliwedd initially, but then started to blow up. Struggled painfully up Lliwedd, then made up some ground down to Bwlch y Saethau. But massive dehydration picked in up the East ridge to Snowdon - lost it completely, desperate for water and unable to maintain any kind of pace. Neil kindly waited for me, later telling me I looked dreadful at this point. I lost maybe 15+ places and at least half an hour. Recovered with some water on the summit, and perked up a bit for the descent down the Snowdon Ranger path to the final climb up Moel Cynghorion. Steep descent down to Maesgwm was brutal but then felt fine for the final descent back to Llanberis. A frustrating day, comfortably the most disappointing race of the year. But a cracking, classic event in perfect weather, and nice to have done the big two Welsh fell races this summer.

Celyn XC race

Race: Celyn multi-terrain race (5m)
Time/Position: 32:27 (4th/12)
A disappointing performance yesterday in this two lap cross-country race around Northop college. Tiny field, but still unable to finish higher than 4th! Did feel a bit tired, and I suppose it's my first fast short race for a good few months, but never really got going. The race is good, though, with some steep muddy climbs and plenty of waterlogged fields. Recovered pleasantly at an afternoon beer festival.

South Rib, Tryfan

Peaks: Tryfan
Routes/Grade: South Rib (M/III)
Sunny weather for a change, but rather tired after a faster-than-usual run up Moel Famau yesterday evening. With a race scheduled tomorrow, a mild scramble seemed the best option. Set off up the Heather Terrace with Rich, scratched around on the ribs left of Arete Climb (soloed in 1992?), to the point of actually leading a 50m pitch up one of them, before finally locating South Rib at the extreme left of the east face. It's not a bad route, starting with a broken rib and open groove leading to a platform. Then a nice second pitch up a gangway to a thrutchy chimney, then along a ramp to an exposed notch followed by excellent easy climbing up the rib crest for 15m or so. Used a single 9mm rope with a couple of slings, but the rest was easy: skirting a green chimney to a traverse back to the main ridge, then easily up to another thrutchy chimney and a final easy rib to another traverse up to the South Summit. After lunch in pleasant sunshine on the top of Tryfan, descended S Ridge to the valley and Ogwen. First outing on rock, even very easy rock, since Provence.

Clwydian runs

A quieter few days, the awful weather continues to render most options unappealing. Ran the Druid route up Foel Fenlli via Penbarras from Llanferres in a rare dry interlude this morning. Rather tired after a decent set of intervals last night (3:21 average, as last week, so gradually regaining). Recovered quite well from the big outing last week, enough to run up Moel Famau on the Friday and push the weekly mileage close to 50 again.

Ogwen/Ffrancon horseshoe

Peaks: Carnedd y Filiast (2697ft/822m), Mynydd Perfedd (2667ft/813m), Foel Goch (2726ft/831m), Y Garn (3107ft/947m), Glyder Fawr (3278ft/999m), Glyder Fach (3261ft/994m), Y Foel Goch (2641ft/805m), Gallt yr Ogof (2503ft/763m), Pen yr Helgi Du (2733ft/833m), Carnedd Llewelyn (3491ft/1064m), Carnedd Dafydd (3412ft/1040m), Pen yr Ole Wen (3209ft/978m)
Area: Glyderau/Carneddau, Eryri
A tiny semi-break in the continuing appalling weather allowed for this sizeable outing along the entire Glyder ridge then across and over the Carneddau for extra fun. A tremendous, varied outing. Set off with Neil from Tai Newyddion above Bethesda for the long and unrelenting, often pathless, climb up Carnedd y Filiast. Mainly walking, so took almost 40 mins. A sharp shower then blew in as we ran over Mynydd Perfedd to the sharp climb up Foel Goch. Cold wind, heavy rain as we ran down to Bwlch y Cywion and up Y Garn (1hr from car) as the mist blotted out all views for a while. The top of Y Garn was cold, wet and hostile - exactly as it was on our last visit 2 weeks ago. Down quickly to Llyn y Cwn and the steep scree up to Glyder Fawr where it was even colder, with heavy sleet. A reasonably quick traverse of the Glyder ridge followed, atmospheric with mist clearing and falling intermittently. Headed round Castell y Gwynt to the scramble up to the true summit of Glyder Fach, peak number 6 (2 hrs). Then we left the awkward wet Glyderau rocks behind for splendid running down the ridge in clearing weather to Llyn Caseg Fraith. Kept running to the top of Foel Goch and along to Gallt yr Ogof in delightful sunshine: just under 3 hrs from the car. Instead of dropping down into Cwm Gwern Gof (which would have been sensible), we bashed down the heathery ridge NE, skirting W when we reached the crags. Dried off in the valley, had a flapjack (more or less the only food). Across the A5 for the pretty lengthy 2500ft climb up Y Braich to Pen yr Helgi Du. Rather tiring but we kept it going quite well, a mix of fast walking and light jogging. Superb prospects from the summit, with the weather continuing to clear and the first decent (albeit very brief) dry window for weeks. Over the always splendid ridge to Bwlch Eryl Farchog, then the scramble to gain the main ridge up Carnedd Llewelyn (5hrs). This was surprisingly comfortable, we were both feeling fine, so were able to keep running in pleasant sunshine over Carnedd Dafydd and up Pen yr Ole Wen and peak number 12 (5.50hrs from car). A good choice to finish on, since we could see the entire round and all the peaks from here - a superb, aesthetically pleasing and satisfyingly logical horseshoe. Surprised that it took so long to occur to me as a combination. Descent was awkward, inevitably. Down Braich Ty Du to the little outcrop of Carreg Fran and the end of the crags. Then down very steep heather and braken to Ty Gwyn. This descent forms part of my '40 at 40' plans, so might have to be re-reccied! Back to the car crossing Afon Ogwen to the old road.

Tavern Trial fell race

Race: Tavern Trial fell race (9m/2000ft)
Peaks: Pen y Cloddiau, Moel y Parc, Pen y Cloddiau
Time/Position: 1:24:17 (4th from 40)
A cracking new (or revived) event yesterday, and a much-needed longer race over this part of the Clwydians. Started in hot, humid weather from Llandyrnog, over a series of fields to gain a track leading to the Moel Arthur car park. But the race soon cut left up very steep bracken and scree to gain the main OD path up Pen y Cloddiau. I was feeling relatively comfortable in about 7th place, which I held for the long descent from Pen to Aifft. A windless, hot climb back up to Moel y Parc was the crux of the race. Hard going, but felt OK, so gained a couple more places and managed to keep it going back over Pen y Cloddiau summit and down to Llandyrnog: the race well spread out by this point and the route-finding occasionally tricky. Neil well out in front. Cut my legs to shreds in the brambles but they had stopped bleeding by the time we got to the pub! My highest ever finish: 4th from a field of 40. Ran most of the way up Famau on Friday night, will do short recovery today.

Clwydian long run

Valuable Peris preparation yesterday evening with Neil. Started below Penbarras in humid, misty conditions. Up to Moel Famau, then over Moel Dywyll and along the ridge to Moel Llys y Coed and down to the road. Superb running. Down towards Llandyrnog then north and west round the Moel Arthur mountain bike loop to Llangwyfan. Then a long hard climb up the bridleway through the woods to the Penycloddiau car park, and steeply up to Moel Arthur. Took the steep direct descent south to the contouring track above Llangynhafal all the way to Nant y Ne, finishing up the dreaded gully back to the summit of Moel Famau and down to the car with mild dehydration. Over 2.5hrs, perhaps 13-14 miles, but a fair amount of climbing. Really good outing.

Moel Famau fell race

Race: Cilcain Mountain Race (4m/1237ft)
Peaks: Moel Famau
Time/Position: 34:47 (8th from 135)
After a calorie-laden weekend in London (one interesting long urban run from Chingford to Leyton Orient FC and back) I wasn't too optimistic for my fifth attempt on the Cilcain Moel Famau race. In fairly windy weather, the race went quite well. I climbed reasonably quickly, to the misty summit in around 21 mins in 10th place, then passed two on the steps down to a 4-man sprint finish! I was 12 seconds down on last year's time, finishing in 34:47, definite lack of speed on the track due to lack of recent intervals. However, I did get the bonus of a flattering 8th place (from 135) presumably because of a relatively weaker field than last year.

Mileage increase

A relatively quiet few days, but did manage about 45 miles in training last week, resting only on Saturday: have managed to get the training back to where it was before the holiday. A tough Wepre run on Thursday with the club, followed by Moel Famau on Friday and the Golly 10k route on Sunday. Ran over Waun y Llyn this morning, feeling tired. Dreadful weather continues to negate more interesting options.

Mini Peris horseshoe

Peaks: Y Garn (3107ft/947m), Glyder Fawr (3278ft/999m), Crib Goch (3028ft/923m), Garnedd Ugain (3494ft/1065m)
Area: Glyderau/Snowdon, Eryri
A good training day yesterday with Neil: doing a semi-reccie of the Peris horseshoe, with the added twist of Crib Goch attached. We started from Nant Peris in quite heavy rain, up the unrelenting and very boggy climb up Cwm Gafr to crest the ridge in bad conditions (cold, wet) and Bwlch y Cywion. Then a mix of running and walking to gain the summit of Y Garn in 50 mins from the car. Down to Llyn y Cwn and up Glyder Fawr in atrocious conditions which cleared briefly near the summit (90 mins). Then the critical section down to Pen y Pass in hail showers, looking for the quickest race route (2hrs+). After a quick break in the cafe, we ran up to Bwlch y Moch, then scrambled up the east ridge in improving conditions before enjoying a fine (dry!) traverse of Crib Goch in classic (Fohn?) conditions: mist shrouding Cwm Glas as we negotiated the pinnacles, but clear views to the south. A rapid jog/scramble up Crib y Ddisgyl in more rain gained the summit of Garnedd Ugain in mist. Good running down to Clogwyn station then dropped into a very wet Cwm Hetiau and back to Nant Peris (4:30) and Pete's Eats. An excellent and unusual circuit.

Gladstone 9 fell race

Fell race: Gladstone 9 (9 miles/2850ft)
Peaks: Tal y Fan (2001ft/610m), Foel Lus
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
Time/position: 1:30:30 (15th/55)
A distinctly average (at best) performance yesterday in the Gladstone 9 (formerly Leg End 9) from Dwygyfylchi. A very nice race though, particularly as the torrential rain stopped just before the start. It heads along the tracks east to Capelulo, then up the far side of Fairie Glen to Llyn y Wrach, then via Cefn Llechan to join the Penmaenmawr fell race route all the way to the wall on Tal y Fan. I know this area well, one of my favourite landscapes of all. Then up the wall to the top of Tal y Fan, painfully steep, before ploughing down through the bogs to the Druids Circle, then up over Foel Lus (superb sea views) to a fast descent back to the village. Felt tired throughout, possibly because I've overdone it since returning from holiday. Ran most of the way up Famau on Friday night and still had the bike circuit in my legs.

Dragon's Back, Coed y Brenin

Mountain bike route: Dragon's Back (Coed y Brenin)
Distance/Climb: 31.1km/710m
First time on the bike for a while today, with another trip to CyB. This time, Rich and I had a bash at the Dragon's Back - loosely based on the old Karrimor (which I think I did twice 7 or 8 years ago) but with numerous new sections: in fact, I could remember very little of the old route. My poort suspension rendered the rocky sections horrible, esp Badger at the start. But then came some excellent smooth singletrack, esp the Hermon section which leads to the long climb out onto the open hillside NE to Moel Hafodwen, great views with a wild feel sadly lacking on most of these designed trails. Superb descent down multiple singltrack sections, particularly good at the top - the Gomez and Morticia sections all new and very fast, narrow descents. The route rejoins the MBR trail (done in Nov) at the excellent Pink Heifer section, then descends to rock and the finish. Took 3:15, which was reasonable given a tough run over Waun y Llyn yesterday, and intervals on Tuesday (first for 2 months!).

Back in training

Conscious I've got some training to do after the holiday, so have run every day since returning from France. A fine run from the Collie up Famau on Friday, followed by several more middle distance runs.

Mont du Grand Capelet traverse

A tremendous traverse of Mont du Grand Capelet yesterday, a long term ambition and an ideal finale to the recent period of activity. The usual 4.30am start in Esterel, then the drive up to Gordolasque before setting off for Lac Autier and the start of the traverse. The path broke off for a steep climb up the south side of the Vallon de l'Autier, a steep gorge at this point. A family of chamois followed me for some way, as the sun lit the peaks to the west: Neiglier, Collomb and Ponset. Again, fantastic stuff. The route-finding was relatively simple by Mercantour standards but still became hard to follow as I reached the inevitable clapier fields leading to Lac Autier: a classic glacial lake in an intimidating cwm with huge rock walls rising on all sides. As usual, I was completely alone. However, the onward route up the couloir to the baisse (col) seemed reasonable. In fact, it was very enjoyable: up a superbly atmospheric side valley to the SE, up moranic debris and snowfields to enter the steep and shattered couloir. This led up to a short scramble and a stunning moment as I gained the baisse du lac autier, a small gap in the rock, to instant sunshine and fabulous views across the new country over the baisse de Valmasque to the east. From here, a short scramble gained a superb level traverse to a gap between two rock towers. Then intricate route-finding SW to the hollow below Cime de Nuffie. Up scree then a tortuous but reasonable traverse along rock shelves to the south, gradually moving upwards until easy scrambling gained the summit (2935m). Another great moment, I have wanted to do this peak for some time. Views superb, particularly into the great cirque of peaks surrounding the Nice hut: Ponset, Gelas, Maledie, Clapier, Chamineye (most of which I've done). Great views east to Bego and Merveilles, although the cloud was already boiling up. Tremendous to have a summit like this to myself. Continued this superb traverse by descending the south ridge down to the narrow Pas des Conques, tremendous rock architecture. Up to the col, then nipped up the side peak of Mont des Merveilles (2720m), fantastic views up to the Capelet. From here, an easy descent on scree led to the minor summit of Mont de l'Arpette, then down to the Pas de l'Arpette for a long but superbly scenic descent to Pont de Countet. A supremely satisfying, highly rewarding traverse, and a memorable mountain day (4:40hrs, back in Esterel for lunch!). Led Bistokere (f3b) for the children at Theole today, along with Arc en Ciel (f3b) and soloed Lets Go and Moonflower at Dramont after snorkelling on the 26th. A few more runs this week, but very humid.

Castellane Pre-Alpes peaks, snorkelling, climbing, Pic de l'Ours run

My irregular campaign on the peaks around Castellane resumed yesterday with a brief but splendid foray onto the Crete de la Bernarde from the Vauplane ski 'resort' above Demandolx. Tremendously clear weather, especially for the time of year. Gained the ridge quickly and went direct for the summit of La Bernarde, the highest in the Castellane Pre-Alpes at just under 2000m. Superb views across to Verdon, Pelat, Mercantour and previously climbed Castellane peaks like the Teillion and Robion. Jogged along the wonderful ridge to the summit of La Gourre, then back to the car. After lunch in Castellane, we all drove up to the summit of Montagne de Lachens, the highest point in the Var, for a second lunch in a delightful limestone glade. I nipped up the main hill as mist spilled into the limestone clues towards the Cheiron. We all went up Pic d'Aurielle in the Esterel on the 24th, fantastic sea views. I ran up Pic de l'Ours in ridiculous midday sunshine to finish. An awful struggle, like breathing in hot tar. Some splendid snorkelling on the 23rd and 26th, around Cap Dramont (saw an octopus), and ran along the headland to the side crag, where I soloed Let's Go and Moonflower, two very simple f3s.

Dramont/Blavet climbing, Esterel fell runs

Some more rock climbing with the family in the Esterel, and a few runs now that the ultra is fading from my legs. Revisted Cap Dramont on the 21st. Led the excellent 20m pitch of Mirliton Productions (f4b), like a very good sustained UK Severe. Nipped up the equally good Va Comprendre Charles (f5a), then did RER (f3c) which M followed to half way. All good long pitches, but baking hot. Next day visited La Capelle at the Gorge de Blavet. Led Benjamin Le Lutin (f4b), the Isengard (f4b), followed by the tiny slab ideal for children. Les Bebes (f3b) and Camille la Chenille (f3a) were ideal for the children and Kate! Followed up with solos of La Belle Eowin (4a), Belle La Coccinelle (4a), Pierrot la Moineau (4a), Tom Bombadil (4a), Gringalette (f3) and Garoudoudou (f3). All nice easy grippy climbs. A lovely venue, ideal for children. Then went for a meal in Fayence before running in the Esterel. Ran up Pic du Cap Roux in stunning clear conditions on the 23rd, followed by a play on the Theole slab, soloing the easy p.1 of Bistokere.

Cime de l'Agnel, Cime de la Malaribe, Cime de l'Agnelliere, Cime de Juisse

A superb Maritime Alps trip yesterday. Left Esterel at the usual time of 4:30am, arriving two hours later at the Vacherie du Boreon. A delightful walk up the Boreon valley passed the Peirastreche chalet gained the Cougourde hut in a stunning setting: a sylvan glade of pines surrounded by stunning rock peaks. The usual faint paths and tricky route finding led up to the treeline at the Lac de Sagnes. Then up NW to the stream along the Vallet Escure. A powerful isolated atmosphere as I crested this little valley to gain a gorge then the tenuous and hard to follow path winding up the stream that leads up to the hanging cwm containing the Lac de l'Agnel: a superb remote spot with an ice-choked lake and large snowfield. The sun finally hit me as the complex and absorbing route finding continued. As usual, nobody in front or behind me: indeed, I was certainly the only person amongst these upper Cougourde peaks all day (a Saturday!) although the lower (marked) paths were very busy. The difficult terrain must be the reason: the usual clapier fields led to a blunt spur, then a grassy terrace leading to the rubbly and steep upper slopes of the peak and finally the very small pulpit-like summit of Cime de l'Agnel (2927m). Superb views of the Cougourde and Argentera. I skirted the upper rocky cwm to gain the frontier ridge crest and the Italian border. Then followed the excellent but brief narrow ridge, quite scrambly (I), to the summit of Cime de la Malaribe (2861m) with stupendous views along the ridge to the Cougourde. Down without incident to the hit, where I had an elegant breakfast of coffee and omlette, girding my loins for a huge extension to the day, which took me SE to the stunning Lac de Trecolpas - arguably the most beautiful spot in the Mercantour - then steeply up to the Pas de Ladres at 2448m, a big climb after the two previous peaks. Then a long climb up to the rocky ridge that leads to the summit of Cime de l'Agnelliere (2700m), a bulky and imposing peak which has often caught my eye. Great views back over Haut Boreon, even though it had clouded over. Then down the ridge to the independent summit of Cime de Juisse (2580m) and SW along the now grassy ridge to the Pas des Roubines de la Mairis, and steeplu from there back to the Vacherie and the car. A long and very rewarding day through new territory for me: a superb part of the Mercantour and another addition to numerous memorable days in the Maritime Alps.

Cap Dramont climbs

On holiday in Provence: went for a family climbing trip to Cap Dramont today. Typical Esterel climbing, but with a delightful coastal twist. Selected some easy routes, with M and E in full body harness. Led Le Plan Qui Vient de Guinee (f3c) a nice easy line up the main face, which both children followed to half way. Then L'Avidite du Concierge, a nice f4b which Morgan followed after a cunning r-hand variant! Quickly nipped up Les Rossignols du Caroubier to finish. A few easy runs in the very hot weather this week: still in recovery mode after Iceland. But Provence is a nice contrast!

Laugavegur ultra marathon, Iceland

The culmination of all the spring/summer events and a fantastic trip to Iceland. This is the most memorable event I've ever participated in, even better than the Jungfrau marathon. Myself, Neil and Dave arrived in Reykjavik on Thursday and left for the race at 3.30am Saturday morning. A 4 hour drive off road in bad weather took us to the start at Landmannalaugur, where the weather had fortunately improved. The race was stunning and hugely varied from start to finish. It begins steeply to gain the Namskvisl hanging cwm - meadows surrounded by colourful volcanic peaks. Then up passed steaming volcanic vents to the steep ridge leading up scree to the Brennisteinsalda. Stupendous views now opening out over the huge Tungnaa river valley and myriad peaks. From here, fabulous running along a broader ridge leads up with 500m climbing to snow fields, small glaciers and - in low cloud - the plateau summit of Hrafntinnusker. This volcano is characterised by fields of shining obsidian and was a remarkable place to run. From here, more steaming fumeroles and sulphur lead to big snowfields and an emergence from the mist revealing fantastic orange and white peaks like Reykjafjoll and Kaldaklofsjoll. The route climbs to a narrow col, along a ridge then skirts a glacier to descend a ridge with stunning new views over the race to come: real Norse God territory. Down this ridge to a river crossing then the flat valley leading to the second hut and checkpoint at Alftavatn lake. It started raining at this point, but it didn't matter as we crossed our first major river, the Bratthalskvisl to climb up to weird lava field and new vistas at Hvanngilskrokur. Distant views of the huge Myrdasjokull glacier as we crossed some big glacial torrents before reaching the half way point. Changed shoes for the long flat crossing of an extraordinary lava field of black sand, surrounded by peculiar volcanic peaks like Hattafell and Storkonufell to eventually descend to the third hut at Botnar and some welcome greenery. It was raining heavily as I started the final section down to the gorge at Fremri Emstrua - some wet scrambling on ropes after running a marathon! The final 15k rollowes the Markarrhot gorge/river down to juniper and birch woodland, then a final steep climb to cross the ridge above Kapa. A final agonisingly cold river crossing (the Krossa) leads to more woodland and a sprint finish down to Thorsmork, where hot springs awaited. Finished in 6:34 for 71st place (55k/34 miles/700m/2-3000ft climbing), but took 60 pictures and had no intention of racing. The best event I have ever done and the definition of what I enjoy most of all. Off to Provence tonight.

Moel y Gamelin fell race

Last race before Iceland and France yesterday - the Moel y Gamelin fell race above Llangollen. Really enjoyed the event, and detected something of an improvement, feeling progressively stronger as the race went on to finish 13th from 74 in 1:24:34. It starts at the Horseshoe Pass, crossing the whole ridge over Moel y Faen, Moel y Gamelin, Moel y Gaer and Moel Morfydd. I took this section very steadily in 25 mins, not wanting to blow up: great views and exhilerating steep descents. Then a gentler descent from Morfydd down narrow sheep tracks to Bwlch y Groes with great views of the Berwyn, followed by a big loop around the bridleways to the west. Back via Tan y Foel to the Conquering Hero path up to the ridge than back over Gamelin and Moel y Faen. I picked the pace up on the track back, passing 10-15 runners including 4 or 5 on the final summit. Not sure I've ever timed a fell race this well. Maintained place on thunderous descent to the Ponderosa, just before the heavens opened. I intend to rest up now, just a few short runs, before flying out to Iceland on Thursday morning.

Llanberis slate climbs

A busy and active day yesterday, started climbing with Alwyn at 9am in the slate quarries with a lead of the splendid Fresh Air (f6a), the interesting slab behind the tower in Never Never Land area. Nice route, delicate but never especially hard. Felt straitforward and slightly overgraded, but lovely moves with the sun gently warming the upper slab. Then led Hawkeye (f5c) round the corner, an odd disjointed route up a juggy arete. We moved up to Australia level (Sidings slab) where I led the smooth pillar of N Gauge (f6a) which felt tough, awkward. I used the top crack to gain the lower off. Seconded Side Line (f4c) to the right, then led the thin and rather tricky slab line of The Mallard (f5c), considerably tougher than the Dali's Hole routes at the same grade. As was Sodor (f5c) which I seconded (up the very thin crack left). Polar Express (f5b) and Ivor the Engine (f5a) completed the routes on this slab in similar, but easier, vein. After Gordon (f3c!), led the interesting arete and groove taken by Choo Choo (f5b) in a nice position above the 'cwm', followed by the stepped groove of Hogwarts Express (f5c) - easy climbing up to a very awkward crux up a narrow groove at the top of the route. We tried some more routes at Bus Stop Quarry (last visited in 1993!) but I was tiring. Then drove to Cadole via K and L in Conwy, then the lanes from Cilcain to join the Colomendy run up Moel Famau in pleasant sunshine. Good views of Eryri from the top. Felt OK on the run, surprisingly, but the beer was appreciated at the end of a long day.

Hotfoot up Famau race

Another very nice event last night, dodging the showers for the second fell race of the summer Clwydian series. Hotfoot up Famau is probably the steepest of the three, and this was another distinctly average performance for me. But probably not the ideal event for me given the stuff I've been training for: the race is a manic 3.5 mile dash with 1,200ft of climbing up the tiny bracken-filled paths (lots of scratches and blood) over the hillfort of Moel y Gaer, then down to Nant y Ne and up stony gully to the OD path down from the summit. Lovely evening, and the usual nice atmosphere. I finished 13th from 56 in 43:06. Neil and I ran up Foel Fenlli in the late sunshine to warm down, and I followed up with a 6 miler in heavy showers this morning.

Mileage increase

Upped the mileage to around 53m last week, running every day: needed to get some biggish runs in before Iceland. Joined the Collie run up Moel Famau in the mist on Friday. Had a short one on Saturday, then ran up Waun y Llyn from the house in 42 mins on Sunday (and back). Two races this week, then I'll ease off before Iceland.

Eglwyseg climbing

A slightly disappointing climbing trip to Trevor Rocks yesterday evening, in cool, windy conditions. Seconded Dale up The Full Nine Llaths (f5), then led the loose and unpleasant Cwm again (f4), before seconding Welsh Fargo (f5) and Dim Parcio (f4). All these newly bolted routes, to the left of the main climbing area, are rather scrappy: downright loose in places. Poor climbing and clearly near to a peregrine nest. Switched to the much better routes on the Compact Wall. Failed on the crux of Super Furry Frogs before clumsily climbing Boreholderline (f6a) after a rest (feeling tired after yesterday's 20 mile run), a steep route on the right of Compact Wall, and seconding I Met a Man from Mars (f6a+). This is a fine, sustained line up a steep flake on small positive holds: by far the best route of the day.

Llangollen-Kinnerton run

A cracking training run for the imminent Iceland ultra race with Dave today. Kate dropped us off in Llangollen, and we ran up to Eglwyseg via Dinbren wood to the Offa's Dyke path. Superb running below all the crags led to World's End and the steep climb up the Esclusham mountain road to the path along the Aber Sychnant. This was very vague indeed, almost impossible to follow through the bog and heather (although we did see a black grouse). Then down to Ty Hir farm, then NE to the Nant Road and up to Bwlchgwyn. Down the minor road skirting Nant y Ffrith to Glascoed, then the bridleway down to Ffrith. Up to Cymau, then Abermorddu, through Hope to Shordley and the lanes back to HK and the house. Probably about 18 miles, but largely off road and very hilly so felt much longer. Good training for Iceland.

Slackening off

A less active few days, feeling tired. Low mileage last week, and no climbing. Did some bouldering in the Twilight area of Eglwyseg on Friday, with a quick run to the plateau. Then did the Gallon Walk (or most of it) in beautiful weather with Neil on Friday evening. Pints in the Druid, Loggerheads, Swan, Rainbow, then up to Moel Findeg. Great event. Followed by a frantic day trip to Northern Ireland by plane from Liverpool with K and L. Had intended to run in the Mournes, but terrible weather meant a car tour of Armagh and Down was more sensible.

Druid fell race

A slightly disappointing performance in last night's Druid fell race, which does a double climb of Foel Fenlli from Llanferres, the first of the Clwydian summer trots. Finished about 50 secs up on last year's time in 40:25 for 14th place (same position as last year), but felt I didn't climb or descend particularly well. Felt annoyingly tired on both climbs up Foel Fenlli, should have been much fresher, but this race is so nice and enjoyable it didn't really matter. Weather was fairly windy and wet, so the woods were extremely dark!

Famau/Hope training

Feeling tired after recent events, but did have a good run up Moel Famau on Friday night with the Colomendy crew (immediately after 5-a-side in Saltney). Felt quite good, and followed up with the Golly 10k on Saturday (slow) then a few hill reps on Sunday. This morning, ran from Hope over Waun y Llyn to Coed Talon, along the track to Llanfynydd then back over to Hope.

Eglwyseg climbs

A successful and enjoyable evening's climbing on the bolts at Trevor with Dale. Decided to up the standard this time and was very pleased with the way I coped with routes that were considerably more technical and strenuous than most of the other climbs done this year. Began with a nice clean lead of Long Legged Lizard from Liverpool, a slabby f6a near the Compact Wall, which goes fairly easily to the break, with an obvious crux on a very small hold above the break to gain the lower-off. Good climb, as was No Reptiles, another very nice 6a climbed cleanly and quickly, satisfying: more sustained, good moves, but lacking any moves as hard as the crux on Long Legged. Took the opportunity to second the much more technical Snakes in the Grass, another sustained f6b, which I coped OK with. Then seconded K9, a short f5 route done before, then Dogs of War (f6a+) with its tricky crux move over the bulge. Then seconded Deputy Dog, a poor f4+, then the very nice traverse line Over the Wall (f6a) which I led last year. Finally top-roped Checkpoint Charlie, a splendid f6b. Steep, but also positive small holds on good rough rock. I was tiring by this point, but it seemed well leadable, although probably at my current limit. My aim is to lead every sports route at Trevor up to (and possibly including) f6b.

Up the Beast fell race

A new (or revived) local fell race took place on Tuesday evening. Far too soon after the 1000m race for me, but decided to support it by running it with tired legs! A cracking route, from the pub in Maeshafn south through the woods of Big Covert to the bridleway then steep climb up 'the beast' to the limestone hills of Bryn Alyn north of Eryrys. Good running across the limestone valleys back to the path skirting Burley Hills quarry and the village. Finished in about 32m, for about 14th place. OK, given the tiring nature of the weekend.

Llanberis slate

Had a conference yesterday in Llandudno, so took the opportunity to get some climbing in first. Scratched around unsuccessfully on Lliwedd before retreating to the bolted slate with Alwyn. Explored the Australia level this time, a huge bowl of shattered rock and a remarkable place. Led UBL, an easy HS with two bolts, then Sad Man Who's Sane, the slabby VS 4c to its left. Then led The Deceptive Dyke (F5+) up a wide groove in the face (NE Spur?) beyond the tunnel. Unusual route, up quartz holds - not slate. Because I'd wasted most of the day, we then just had time for Steps to Glory (F5) on the level above - the best route of the day, nice edging in a good position above the quarry. Then two poor routes to finish: Kinder Surprise (F4+) and Sport 4 All (F4+).

Welsh 1000m peaks fell race

A fantastic day yesterday, competing in the Welsh 1000 metre peaks fell race for the first time. This was a fairly long-term aim, but coming so soon after the marathon (13 days) I wasn't sure how I'd get on. In the event, I felt reasonably good throughout. It's an epic event, in every sense, starting with Neil Parry by the sea in Aber, going up and over the Aber Falls to the Afon Goch valley. Up the steep western wall of the valley to thread between Bera Mawr and Bera Bach, then into the clag. I joined a small group which traversed the side of Foel Grach to regain the main path up Llewellyn later on, shaving a few minutes of the route I'd planned. About 90 mins to the summit of Llewellyn from the coast, feeling fairly strong and well placed at this point (certainly in the top 20). A spectacular clearance as we ran along the ridge to Dafydd, cloud peeling away to the west. Then retraced steps along the edge of Cwm Lloer to the new checkpoint then steeply down to Ffynnon Llugwy, with dehydration starting to kick in. Had some water, then down the horrible tarmac road to the A5, more water, then up Nant yr Ogof (rather tiring) to crest the Glyder ridge at Llyn y Caseg fraith. Superb views of the east face of Tryfan kept my mind off the increasing fatigue! Completely alone at this point, the race spread out. Then the awful descent down the Miner's Track past another checkpoint. Very rocky and awkward, turned my ankle several times. West to Llyn Cwmffynnon, then an energy-sapping runnable bogtrot to Pen y Pass and more water. Surreal running through the tourists in the car park to the Pyg Track and final push for Yr Wyddfa. Went reasonably well, but I began to slow and was passed by five runners. Huge numbers of tourists on the path, which is runnable at many points. Up into the clag at the zigzags, but kept pushing to the top of Carnedd Ugain (Crib y Ddisgyl) in under 5 hours, then over to the summit of Snowdon - the fourth and final 1000m peak - in about 5:06, for 26th place. A long day in the saddle (22 miles, 8000ft+ climbing), particularly as we had to walk back to Llanberis from the summit: an extra 5 or 6 miles (although it was actually a very pleasant warm down).

Pinfold climbing

A brief evening climbing trip to Pinfold with Dale yesterday. Didn't get much done, but it was my first visit to this nicely situated crag for 15 or 16 years, so a real trip down memory lane - interesting to look at some of the lines I did then, remarkable to think that I'd soloed several of them. Yesterday, action was very limited: I soloed up and down the very simple Lax (M), then seconded Dale up Trophy (HS), the messy groove left of Obelisks Fly High. Then led Auto-de-Fe, a reasonable S (at least the top crack was nice). Couldn't remember doing this route before.

Clwydian run (Clwyd Gate-Nant y Garth)

A promising hill run this morning, in claggy, humid conditions. Felt good, surprisingly, so a good confidence boost for the 1000s next Saturday. Started from Llanarmon yn Ial intending to run over the tops of the six peaks between Clwyd Gate and Nant y Garth. Ran up to the Garreg Lwyd col, then up and down Moel Gyw. Then over Boncyn Banhadlen to the summit of Moel Llanfair, down the splendidly situated track (east) to join the OD path, breaking off again to run to the summit of Moel y Plas. Then excellent running along OD over the shoulder of Moel y Gelli, to the steep road east of Moel y Waun. Up to the summit of this hill too, then along the ridge to Moel yr Accre and back to the road via Brenhinlle Fawr. Then took the bridleway back via Llyn Gweryd to Llanarmon.

Cneifion arete

Nicely rounded off a very successful and active May yesterday with an ascent of old favourite Cneifion arete with Rich in beautiful sunshine. Last did this Alpine-style (M/III) ridge about 16 years ago, in big boots with no rope. Older, and wiser, we pitched it this time after approaching it via the East Wall Gully scramble (II) above Idwal. I led the nice initial wall, the only remotely problematic bit, up past two spikes to a short traverse and the belay. Then led up the sandy chimney to the upper arete. We continued to pitch this, but pleasingly efficiently, almost moving together keeping to the crest. Superb warm sunshine and fabulous crystal clear views under a deep blue sky. After lunch on the crest, we moved up to the Gribin ridge (I) and religiously followed the crest for more warm scrambling to the summit ridge then the top of Glyder Fawr. Heavy sacks, and tired legs (still suffering from the marathon) meant a quick jog down past Twll Du to Idwal and the car. Little running last week, just trying to recover in time for the 1000m race next Saturday. Managed a short one on Thursday, and did the Colomendy run on Friday: up Moel Famau in perfect weather again. Will try a fell run tomorrow, and perhaps intervals on Tuesday.

Glenshee mountains

The weather in Scotland was so good that it was impossible to resist driving up to the edge of the Highlands from Perth yesterday. Parked in Glenshee ski carpark, and tried to ignore the post-marathon muscle damage in my legs as I ploughed up the Cairnwell, probably Scotland's ugliest mountain, in 15 mins. From the col, though, the horrors of the ski resort are left behind. With the sun out, a brisk wind, big snow patches and scudding clouds, it was a wonderful walk above Loch Vrotachan to the broad ridge up Carn a'Gheoidh. Great views over Glas Tulaichen and Beinn a'Ghlo. Time was limited, so I jogged back to the col and nipped up the third munro of the day: Carn Aosda, another hideously disfigured skiing peak. But again interesting views to the central Cairngorms. A long (7 hour?) drive home meant stiff legs, but I seem to be recovering relatively well from the marathon.

Edinburgh marathon

Broke the big barrier at the Edinburgh marathon, finishing in 2:57:52, for 110th place from 7000. The culmination of my plans/tactics over spring. I think it was probably right to stay comfortable in Paris to dip below 3:10 (given previous pb was 3:27!). But this time I wanted to really go for the 3 hours, despite the IT band injury and the fact that the South Cheshire 20 had been my only long run since Paris seven weeks ago. Conditions were poor, with a strong headwind right up to the turn at 18 miles. Doing the course last year helped, and I ran a good tactical race, quite cautious and controlled but never really slackening the pace. Went through 10k in 40m, half in 1:27, then a rough patch at 21m, when I finally got the tailwind. But kept concentration and kept the pace up, albeit painfully, over the last three miles to get comfortably under the barrier. Another great weekend in Edinburgh, beautiful weather, so we all went up Arthur's Seat next day - then drove to the Hetheringtons near Perth where we walked up Abernethy Glen in delightful evening sunshine. Desperate to recover now in time for the 1000m race.

Chester half marathon, Trevor climbs

Not sure whether my decision to run the Chester half (for the fifth time) on Sunday was wise - with Edinburgh, my big target, next Sunday. But it was an excellent confidence boost (assuming I recover in time). Took it relatively easy, and felt very strong from Pulford back to the finish, passing around 15 good club runners to finish in 30th place (from around 2000) in 1:22:30. Bigger crowds now for this race, nice atmosphere, good cool conditions. Bodes well for the marathon, felt nicely sustainable at the pace, with each mile quicker than the previous. Felt fine afterwards - indeed had a short climbing session with Rich at Trevor. Led Hot Dog (4), then the wall to its left (VS). Then led the newish route Crocs (f5+) up a tricky but short steep wall with some loose rock, then seconded Alligator's Crawl (HVS 5a) up the obvious crack on the right. Retired soon afterwards for a well deserved pint in The Sun. Cycled to work on Monday, to loosen the legs.

Atlantic Slab, Filiast

A tremendous outing yesterday on a perfect May day, climbing in the wonderful Cwm Grianog on the Filiast slabs. I've wanted to visit this crag for years and here was the perfect opportunity. Walked into the cwm with Alwyn, and began the long slog up to the base of the Atlantic Slab ridge, a 1000ft Mod/Diff/Gr 3, one of the longest routes in Wales and a fantastic outing with a real Alpine flavour. Took us about two hours, alternating leads efficiently, running out full 50m+ rope lengths every time for six long pitches. Position wonderful throughout, deep blue skies, warm sunshine and crystal clear views over Tryfan and the Carneddau. We kept to the crest throughout, moving left over the main slab (Central Route) towards the end. The climbing is very easy, but sustained at the standard with very few broken sections and some nice slabs. The route finishes right on the summit of Carnedd y Filiast. We then descended to the cwm, popping out - more by luck than judgment - beneath Tree Slab, a venue of which I knew nothing but which looked great. Alwyn led the obvious key line up the central crack - White Lightning (S). This is a real hidden gem, a superb straight crack, lined with quartz leading to a small ledge, then an overlap and a delicate slab with perfect friction to the top. The crack to the left (right of the VD Friction) appeared to be a new route (!) so I led it. Nice climbing to another quartz lined crack, but unsurprisingly also a bit more vegetation, passing two trees to a ledge. Belayed here, then Alwyn led up the finishing arete of Friction (VD). Called the route Crystalline Crack (HVD) but, assuming the crag has at least been visited since the 1993 guidebook, I think it very likely such an obvious, simple route has been done before. A splendid little crag, isolated, perfect rock.

South Cheshire 20 mile race

Decided at the last minute to enter the South Cheshire 20 mile race this morning. Felt it would be the ideal test for my knee and a good way to assess Edinburgh chances. Went very well, much more optimistic now. The knee held out, and I finished comfortably in 2:25. Didn't really push it at all, very relaxed until 2 miles from the end when a marshall told me I was 16th. So I started to run faster and satisfyingly passed three runners towards the end to finish 13th from 80. The course was an ideal test, hilly and hot: a really good underrated race that I may do again (and race). I'd also felt OK on the Buckley 5k route last Thursday (18:24) and on the Collie Moel Famau run Friday night - a few more days of stretching and I should be fairly well placed to conquer the injury. Got very close to 50 miles of running this week.

Craig Aderyn/Craig Ddu climbs

A splendid opportunistic evening's climbing yesterday with Alwyn: the beautiful warm May weather continues. We parked at Pen y Pass and headed off to Craig Aderyn, the perfect 60m high slab I've had my eye on for many years. Led the first pitch of Arete Climb, an easy Diff in a very nice position following the right arete. Good 100ft pitch, a nice way to reacquaint myself with 'proper' climbing. Alwyn led to the top. Played around on Subsidiary Slab, then Alwyn led the classic Jacob's Ladder/Via Media combination up the main slab. One of the finest Severe pitches in Wales, really excellent climbing up a series of cracks and quartz holds: delicate and absorbing. We then headed down to Craig Ddu, where I led the unexpectedly good first pitch of Rib and Slab (VD). Easy, but again absorbing and in a really nice position, a good sharp rib with lovely positive holds. Alwyn led the slightly disappointing long slab pitch: very easy but again in a nice position. On the Tuesday, tried to get a long run in (to Holt and back). Bit of a disaster - dehydrated, knee problems.

Y Garn fell race, Tarw MTB trail

A very average performance in Y Garn fell race on Saturday. Humid conditions, with a little mist covering the summit as we approached from Rhyd Ddu. It's an unrelenting, continuously steep 1,500ft climb from the village. Got to the cairn in 24 mins from the village, and kept my place reasonably well on the steep but grassy descent (11 mins from summit to road). Finished in 35:25 for 30th place from 93. The race was a counter in the Welsh and North Wales champs, so a very strong field. Poured down immediately after, so Simon and I had to abandon plans for a 1000m reccie. Next day, myself and Rich headed off to Coed y Brenin in beautiful spring weather (at last), to do the Tarw mountain bike circuit. Loosely based on the old Red Bull, which I did 7 years ago. But I found the Tarw disappointing, technical and tediously rocky throughout - very few smooth descents but physically relatively easy (21k).

Border League, Cader scramble and ridge run, Tarren hills run

A pleasing performance, a return to some kind of form at last, in Wednesday night's final border league fixture: a 4 mile race in Deeside. Wanted to maintain my 9th position in the league, and managed it with a time of 23:30 for 50th place from the usual very strong final fixture field of 275. Very satisfied with a top 10 finish, maintaining 9th place overall with a final score of 249: pleasingly consistent over the season, with six top 50 finishes. Buckley finished 2nd in division 1. Next day, went to Aberystwyth for a conference. Started at 6am, so was able to squeeze an outing in on the way. Parked at Minffordd and ran up to Cwm Cae in low cloud. Located the Tapia Llwydion scramble/climb, and romped up the nice 200ft slab in rock boots (bit of diff at the start, then grade II scrambling), easy but damp, good fun. A couple of steeper towers led to broken ground and then the plateau in thick mist. Ran along the ridge to Mynydd Moel, then the continuation ridge (very pleasant, not done before) to emerge from the cloud below the summit of Gau Graig - interesting views to Waun Oer. Then ran down the very steep ridge back to the bridleway, cutting my thumb and twisting my ankle. Back to Minffordd in 2 hours, washed in the toilets and got to Aber before the conference had started! Next day, left the conference at 5pm and arrived Abergynolwyn 5.45pm. More new territory for me, up Nant Gwernol to Foel Fawr, then along the forest tracks - nicely runnable - to the gully leading steeply to the NW ridge of Tarren Hendre. Great remote feeling hills, especially this time of night. Lovely springlike evening, cuckoos calling, as I ran along the wonderful ridge leading over Pant Gwyn to Foel y Geifr. Exhilerating stuff, with magnificent views to the Dyfi valley right, and Cader Idris left. Over Foel y Geifr to a path through some trees to a steep climb up Tarren y Gesail. The sun illuminated Bardsey, as well as a narrow band of sea. Good running down to Bryn Eglwys quarry and back to Abergynolwyn in 2:30 hrs (quite a tough 10 mile round).

Carneddau scramble, Wrexham 10 mile race

An active weekend, but marred by the reappearance of my knee problem. Managed a quick trip to Snowdonia with Rich in poor weather: rain sweeping down Ogwen as we arrived. So we abandoned plans for a roped scramble, and instead headed up into Cwm Lloer. But the weather began to clear slightly as we entered the cwm, so we had a bash at the obscure Broad Gully Ridge (I/II). Moved through the cwm to the base of Broad Gully (climbed with Tim in perfect winter conditions in 1993!). Up this to just below the 'pitch', then a wet traverse left on a sloping gangway to a flake. Above, the rock was hopelessly greasy so we traversed further left and tried a horribly wet and vegetated gully which led to a very narrow cleft. This was fortunately just wide enough to pull out of, and led to an easy couloir and some intermittent scrambling on the ridge to join the normal east ridge at the top of the gully. Then over Pen yr Olau Wen and along with ridge to Carnedd Dafydd in low cloud, rain and strong winds: unpleasant. Took a bearing and scurried back to Ffynnon Lloer and the car. Next day, did the Wrexham 10 mile road race (North Wales championships), my 100th official race. Was going very well until 7 miles (exact 6 min 10 secs pace) but then blew up catastrophically, no idea why. Limped home in just over 64 minutes, very disappointing. Warmed down to take the mileage up to 14 for the day. But then felt my knee problems come back on a 6 miler the next day. Now I'm worried again...

Eglwyseg climbs, running improves

A relatively promising week for running, although still feeling tired. Knee has improved considerably. Managed an average intervals session on Tuesday and felt quite good on my 10k this morning. Last night, paid another visit to Trevor Rocks with Dale, again in perfect climbing conditions of beautiful spring sunshine. Led Catch the Pigeon, a rather good, long 4+ over two overlaps with a tricky crux right at the top. Then seconded Ant Hill Mob (5) and made a hash of Prof Pat Pending (6a+) to its left. Bit more daylight now, so moved down to the new Wings area (as last week) to lead Merlin Magic, a long and easy 4 up loose jugs. Then, in fading light, one of the new very loose routes to the right.

Knee improves, new rock climb

After a trip to the physio last Wednesday, I was reassured about my knee. Managed six miles on the Thursday, and the Colomendy run up Moel Famau on Friday with no real problems beyond a slight niggle. A short jog on Saturday then a pleasing 12 miler yesterday - around Llay, Rossett and Burton - suggest I should be OK. Also went to the crag I've discovered on Hope Mountain and shunted the most obvious line, which climbs the open corner towards the right of the crag. Not bad at all, certainly a valid route, maybe 35ft high, steep and juggy on a sort of honeycombed sandstone. All rather dirty, dusty and vegetated - but again considering this is almost certainly the first ascent, not too bad. The route, which I've called Beyond Hope (the pun was too obvious to avoid) goes at around Severe, or a tad harder. Steep jugs and bridging gain an uncomfortable ledge, then an awkward bulge gains a big hold on the right wall (in which there is a convenient crack), with bridging to finish. Good belays on top too.

New climbs at Eglwyseg

Managed to get a few routes done yesterday evening in beautiful crisp, clear sunshine. Went to the newly developed area of Trevor with Dale Berry: outside the bird ban left of Fudd Walls. Possibly the largest crag in the area, so longish routes. We began with a lead of Raptor Rap (f4+), a nondescript route on flat holds. Then Sgrech yr Hebog (f5+), up a shallow groove line. Both appropriately named (a peregrine circled just above our heads throughout this climb). Scratching the surface (f5) was probably the best route, another lead: a coherent line up the steep central groove then the overlap to a nice slab. Finished with Co-ed in the Coed (f5) on the far left: an awkward wall leads to another slab. Not exactly classic climbing, but more routes here are always welcome. Lovely spot in the evening, the sun gradually dropping behind velvet hills.

Llanberis slate climbs

An efficient climbing trip yesterday evening. Polished off all nine of the new bolted routes at Dali's Hole on the slate above Dinorwic in less than 2.5 hours with Alwyn. Only my second ever day on the slate (first was in 1993 I think!). Good, slabby routes - quite technical in places. Kicked off with a lead of Tolerance, an easy f5. Then led Mon Amie, f5+. Small holds take some getting used to, but this style of delicate climbing always was easier for me (and everybody else!). Then did the two very simple f4's - Kinder Sport and Emerald Dyke. Then two good routes up the full height of the main face, both with good moves and interesting climbing. La Grandpere (f5c), possibly overgraded, and the better Pour Tout le Monde (f5c). Alwyn led Le Grandmere (f5a), rather short. Finished by upping the grade to take in Le Petit Pois (f6a+), a tiny one-move wonder with a technical start. Then led La Gendre (f6a+) - the best climb here, taking the grooves on the left edge of the face by way of some very interesting moves. Great stuff. Ran up Moel Famau from Colomendy with Neil on Friday night, but then detected the first signs of the dreaded ITBS (lateral knee pain) on a Saturday morning run. Came back again during a nine-miler on Sunday, around Llay and Burton. Will try intervals tonight, but am very worried this could put me out of running action for a bit.

Eglwyseg climbing

Managed to get a few climbs in on Wednesday evening. Just about enough light for four climbs between 6.30 and 8ish, with Dale Berry. Led the easy groove of SMD on the Suspect Walls at Trevor - just one move at the start, then easy plodding. Seconded the arete of Clue, So - again. Then led Disappearing Act (5+), a good strong line with nice climbing, up the obvious corner left of Clue, So. Nicely up the groove, then good positive holds over the small roof to a slabby finish. Very little arm strength! Finished seconding Forensic Science as the sun disappeared and things got rather chilly. Good to get out on the rock again. Had a 3 mile jog along the panorama prior to this. Legs feel fine after the marathon, so time to up the mileage again.

Paris marathon

A pleasing performance in the Paris marathon on Sunday - a tremendous event, great support and surroundings, particularly the mass start on the Champs Elysses. Finished in 3:09:22, a big PB and a good platform to go all out for sub-3 at Edinburgh in late May. Ran a very comfortable race, even achieving the fabled negative split (ran the second half about 2 seconds quicker than first half!), in ideal cool conditions. Probably stayed too far within comfort zone, didn't really suffer until last 3 or 4k, so picked up hundreds of places over final 15k. Will push much harder in Edinburgh - which will be my 10th marathon. Met Dave and his Penny Lane pals after the race, then had a long walk round the city, including a Louvre visit, with m and d. A flight cancellation meant I had to go back via Glasgow, 26 hours later than planned. Tiring.

Chester Spring 5 race

What was intended as a final sharpener/confidence boost before the marathon had exactly the opposite effect last night. Just couldn't get going in this evening 5 mile race, and limped home in 30:30. No idea what the problem was. Will have a short trot today, then rest up until Paris.

Tapering weekend

A quiet weekend, winding down now before the Paris marathon next Sunday. Joined the Colomendy run up Moel Famau on Friday. Very pleasant, if a little muddy after all the rain. Chased down by heavy showers on the descent. Followed up with a brisk 12 miler on the Sunday: from HK to Shordley, Llay, Rossett, Pulford, Dodleston and back.

Penmachno loop two

Took advantage of a weather window to head off for an early morning MTB sprint around the new loop two at Penmachno. We'd intended to do this last month, but were forced by the weather into another lap of loop one. Yesterday was bright and occasionally sunny. The new loop doesn't offer great riding, but has a real XC feel and gives a far better sense of 'place'. It goes north high above the Machno valley, to birch woods above Fairy Glen, then skirts the Lledr and up to a plateau with superb views over central Snowdonia. Still a bit of snow left. Then a long section of pedally singletrack leads back to rejoin loop one before the rocky section at Rowen. About 31km, a little under 2:50 for the circuit. Back home by midday.

Winter conditions, Glyderau

Went for a family walk up Moel Gyw from Llanarmon on Easter Monday, but thick mud, freezing wind and sleet made this impossible. Instead, I trotted up to the summit on my own, only to realise that full winter conditions had finally arrived in Snowdonia: obvious thick cover, the first all winter. So next day I headed off before 7am, and walked up into Cwm Bual via the awkward stream valley. Good thick cover in the cwm itself, which became excellent as I moved towards Esgair Gully. I've been curious about this deep, twisting grade I gully for years and was able to satisfy that curiosity in good snow conditions. Plodded up the slower slopes and entered the gully itself, ice smears adding to the powerdul atmosphere. Easy snow climbing, rather deep in places, leads via various twists and turns to the top section after which I downclimbed back to Cwm Bual, wanting a day on the tops. Contoured up to a spur which led to the plateau - waist-deep drifts and a bitter wind. Ploughed on to the summit of Foel Goch then across to Y Garn in a near white-out. Quite heavy snow, so paced down to Bananda Ridge. Dropped out of the wind, very deep snow at the top of the ridge, but a delightful descent back to Nant Ffrancon and drizzle. Managed a good intervals session in the evening, surprisingly - consistent 3:21 pace.

Ras yr Aran

First real fell race of the year today, with the Aran race from Llanuwchllyn. Sadly, 60mph winds and an iced-up ridge meant the race had to be shortened. But it still went to the lake just below the summit of Aran Benllyn, missing out the ridge to Fawddwy. Actually, we had a weather window for the race itself - windy but relatively benign with some sunshine and almost alpine conditions where the snow was lying. There was a fair covering higher up, with some ice. My performance was average at best, climbed quite badly - feeling it in the calves - but descended reasonably well into the wind: finished in 1:14:55 or so, slightly disappointing, especially given my rest day yesterday. Some good runs last week, including a longish Clwydian outing with Neil on Wednesday.

Aber-Conwy eight peak run

After work yesterday, M and D drove to Conwy and dropped me off at Aber - for a run in beautiful spring sunshine over the peaks back to the house in Conwy. Up Foel Dduarth in 23 minutes from Bontnewydd, then along the delightful runnable ridge over the steep Foel Ganol (great views straight down into Cwm Anafon), then Yr Orsedd (small flock of chough) and Pen Bryn Du to the track up Drum. Arrived at the rather chilly summit of Drum an hour after leaving Bontnewydd. Then exhilerating running along the next ridge via the top of Carnedd y Ddelw to the steep descent to Bwlch y Ddaefaen and some much-needed warmth. A steep slog (walking now) gained the top of Foel Lwyd, and then the rare treat of running the length of the rocky ridge over the top of Tal y Fan and down to Llangelynin and, eventually, Conwy and a fish supper. Around 2.75 hrs for the satisfying circuit, quite a bit of climbing, beautiful weather, and a good sharpener for the Aran race next Saturday.

Rhayader 'round the lakes' 20 mile race

Had no intention of racing the Rhayader 20 mile race on Saturday: just wanted to enjoy it, to finish in comfort, and achieved that nicely. It's a great event, leaving the town (in constant drizzle and low cloud) to climb up to 500m at the summit of Penrhiw-wen. But the climb is fairly gentle, if rather long. Then tremendous running, initially in mist, down to the Craig Goch reservoir with wild, far-reaching views. Then down to Penygarreg, the next lake, where I suffered from a stomach upset - my bete noir - which lost me five minutes as I searched for a quiet spot in the woods. Felt fine afterwards, and picked up places continually around Carreg ddu and Caban coch to the steep hill at mile 19. Kept it going to finish in Rhayader in 2:33:39 for 74th place, from 322. Lost at least 5 mins and never really felt I was pushing the pace, so quite pleased. Stayed the night at Steve and Jenny's in Llanwrthwl, and had a nice walk along the flooded Wye next morning. On Friday night, I joined the Colomendy run again, but just jogged along the leat in preparation for Rhayader. Ran for eight continuous days up to Rhayader, which is also pleasing.

Mold border league, Moel Famau run

Another setback to marathon training last week, when I caught a bug of some kind. Got over it reasonably quickly, but lost two full days of training. That said, I joined the Colomendy run on Friday night and felt fine - a really enjoyable outing for four of us up Moel Famau with showers sweeping in over the Vale, but clear sunshine east. Then gave the border league a good bash on Sunday, but finished disappointingly far down the field in 43rd (from 230) in 29:41. I was a minute slower than this last year, for the same hilly five mile circuit around Nercwys village - but was only five places up. Must have been an unusually strong field, because I felt I'd run a good race. Still, I'm now 12th senior male in the league, Buckley are second in division one: all to play for. Took the children up Waun y Llyn in the afternoon: bracing.

Foel Goch circuit, Moel Arthur, Treuddyn run

After bruising my ankle playing football last week, I wasn't sure whether I'd be able to get my long run in on Saturday (crucially, my last before the next crop of races). But I managed a rewarding 19-20 miler from HK to Hope, then over the shoulder of Waun y Llyn to Pontybodkin, then steeply up to Treuddyn (really this is just one long hill, into the teeth of a gale today!). Then south on Ffordd y Blaenau to Cae Hic, before enjoying the long descent to Llanfynydd - entirely new ground for me. Then up to the summit of Waun y Llyn and back to HK. A real contrast with recent long flat runs to Chester - windy but sunny, very hilly and rewarding. Felt good throughout. Next day went up Moel Arthur with Eve (Morgan refused to join us) - my first time up Arthur for many years, Eve's small legs coped well with the steep climb. Followed up with a splendid circuit of the 'Foel Goch hills' northeast of Bala. Snow showers forecast, but just the tiniest dusting on the tops, the mildest winter I've ever known. Headed up Cwm Da from Pandy in sunshine, then broke off for the steep climb up the subsidiary hill of Orddu - top reached in 90 mins from my house. The round pleasantly to the windy summit of Foel Goch (great views of snow showers in central Eryri, Aran and Arening). Then a run east to Garnedd Fawr, which feels remote, before finally jogging up Moel Emoel, a shapely summit, one of the best small hills in Snowdonia - great views over the Bala peaks. Then back via Nant Cefn Coch in around 2.5 hrs.

Famau, Penmachno MTB, Dee/Chester run

A varied weekend, useful training. Joined the regular hill run from the Colomendy pub up Moel Famau and back via Loggerheads on Friday evening - very enjoyable, followed by a pint or two. Then met Rich on Saturday morning, intending to do the new Penmachno loop two on the mountain bikes. But the weather was appalling, and it took all our will power to even start loop one in howling wind, low cloud and squally icy rain. Good fun in places, at least before our hands lost all feeling. Bike riding well after the service, so it was a shame loop two was out in the conditions. But at least the shorter route meant I could do the necessary long run on Sunday. Managed another 20 miler - this time from HK over the top to Hawarden, down to Queensferry, over the bridge and along the Dee path all the way to the Roodee (a very long haul: overtaken by heavy rain and cold winds on the most exposed section, nasty). Then over the river to Chester golf course, through Curzon Park to Grosvenor Bridge, over Handbridge and back through Saltney and Bretton. Felt good, optimistic for the forthcoming marathons etc. A family swimming trip in the afternoon proved an excellent way to warm down.

Wrexham half marathon

Perfect conditions for the Wrexham half marathon yesterday: calm, sunny and cold. Not many races of this distance around, so I was pleased with a big pb of 1:21:51 (more than three minutes quicker than my last half, and my sixth consecutive pb over the distance). Felt reasonably good throughout, but lost time between 10 and 11 miles before picking up the pace for a strong finish. The time essentially brings my half mara pb in line with my 10k pb. Always a strong field for this event, so I was only around 60th from 550 or so. Followed up with an early morning jog up Waun y Llyn from Hope in - yet again - glorious sunshine. Was tired, inevitably, so spent some time jogging around the more obscure paths across the plateau, finding some good looking climbable crags and enjoying the Clwydian views.

Llanferres skyline run, Famau, Dee long run

Beautiful weather all weekend: terrifyingly mild, but perfect crystal clear conditions in the Clwydians and elsewhere. Had to do a long run on Saturday, so ran with Shane in the sunshine from HK to Hawarden, then Queensferry to Garden City. Then the long flat haul along the Dee path (wind against!) to Saltney Ferry, then back to HK via Bretton. Then I tagged the Honkley/Golly 10k loop on to the end for a satisfying and necessary 19-20 mile outing. Next day went up Moel Famau with the children in superb conditions: cloud inversion in the Vale of Clwyd and to the east. Perfect warm sunshine on the ridge. Followed up with an early morning fell run, 10 miles or so traversing the 'Llanferres skyline', from the village up to the OD path beneath Fenlli. Down to Clwyd Gate and along frosty tracks to the Garreg Lwyd col below Moel Gyw: superb views to Arening Fawr, Cader, Arans, Snowdon, Llewellyn - and all Eryri peaks. Then on the OD path west of Moel Llanfair above the vale to the climb up Moel y Plas. Cut east here to join the bridleway down to Llyn Gweryd and Llanarmon yn Ial. Then across the fields to the road and up the bridleway to Bryn y Gloch. Stunning views, perfect still weather as I picked my way across the Bryn Alyn hills above Bryn Haidd to eventually locate the exposed path that drops to the Pot Hole Quarry bridleway near Pant Ddu. Then west along the track back to the car.

Border League Abergele, Llanferres hill run

Quite a pleasing performance in the fourth round of the Border League yesterday in Abergele. I'd felt rough all week, with a mild cold, tired every time I ran including a poor intervals session with the club. But luckily I felt quite good on the day for the race along the seafront, finishing 35th from the usual competitive club field of 238 in a 5 mile pb of 29:33. Conditions windy and awkward, but could have been worse. Slackened off towards the end and lost a few places. Followed up with an early morning run from Llanferres in unpromising (and unforecast) conditions of sleet, snow and wind: very boggy underfoot. Felt very tired, so ran down the excellent track, well situated above the valley as the clouds swept in, to halfway house. Then up steeply to Penbarras and over the side of Fenlli on the OD path and back. Horizontal snow at one point on the descent. On Friday, I'd gone up to Llandegla for the second dash in the dark but was thwarted by thick snow on the road. Went sledging on Hope Mountain with the children on Saturday, and ran back to the house.

Mileage increase

Another quiet weekend, so another chance to increase the mileage a bit. Consistent 40 mile weeks so far this year: not enough but closer. On Saturday, ran a reasonably paced 17 miler from HK through Bretton and Saltney to Chester, then down the half marathon route from Handbridge to Pulford, down to Rossett then back home via Burton Green. Recovery jog on Sunday, then an early morning run today up and over the top of Waun y Llyn from Hope, down to Coed Talon and back over Waun y Llyn from Llanfynydd. Not too muddy, mild and windless.

Dash in the dark

A cracking first race of 2008 on Friday night, when I ventured out in the wind and rain for the first Dash in the Dark race of the new series. Basically a night-time fell/trail race, run with headtorches, tremendous fun. Starts up the mountain bike track in Llandegla, then cuts across the open hill to a steep, hazardous descent to the lake. Round this, very muddy, to another steep descent then muddy climb back to the centre - about 4 miles, 750ft climbing, but feels longer in the dark, wind and rain! I finished in 9th place, about 29:29 (but an unsurprisingly smallish field of around 40). By chance, I'd reccied most of the course last Wednesday after picking my bike up from the mechanic: helped a bit. Felt a bit tired for the rest of the weekend, which was rainy anyway. But managed 6+ miles on the road on Saturday, then 12 miles on Sunday (Rossett circuit). Urgent need to increase endurance, as my spring/summer plans are now set: Rhayader 20, Paris marathon, Edinburgh marathon, Welsh 1000m fell race, Icelandic Laugavegur mountain ultra-marathon. Each event is progressively harder and should, theoretically, lead smoothly (?) into the next: - supplemented, hopefully, by smaller races, rides, climbs, and some ambitious peak-bagging trips in the maritime Alps and elsewhere.

Llandegla MTB

First mountain bike trip for a few weeks, round Llandegla red circuit for the 8th or 9th time with Rich yesterday afternoon. Muddy, rutted and extremely busy, but good fun nevertheless, and a nice still sunny day for once. A long 11+ mile, very hilly run from Mold to Cilcain, Pantymwyn and back with Shane on Saturday meant I felt a bit tired last night.

Northern Carneddau

A solo trip to the northern Carneddau yesterday. Set off in running gear from Aber, reaching the top of the falls in 15 minutes. But as soon as I got through the entrance to the Cwm Afon Goch an immediate violent pummelling from a ferocious southerly wind meant I had to change plans and cast around for an alternative to the route up Llewellyn. The wind was so fierce that I was being knocked backwards from time to time: running impossible! Instead, I secreted myself in a shallow gully leading to the Bera Mawr plateau. This was steep but relatively sheltered: a cunning solution to the prevailing conditions. On the plateau, the cloud base shifted in and out after lunch on Bera Mawr. I took a bearing across the plateau, but the mist soon cleared. The gale stayed fierce but was now at my back, so I ploughed up Drosgl in four minutes from Bera Bach, then a few minutes over th Gyrn Wigau (last visited as the 'sting in the tail' at the end of the Carneddau fell race in June). I watched the weather coming in over the main Carneddau peaks whilst lying down behind the summit rocks out of the wind. Finished by running over Moel Wnion and back to Aber full-pelt into the teeth of the gale, then down the Afon Gam and the falls. Managed eight miles or so on the roads this morning.