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.