Race: Deeside Track Mile (One mile)
Time/Position: 5.05.6 (5th from 35)
Track events are the obvious thing missing from my 'running CV'. Not surprisingly, age is a bit of a barrier to speed, and 47 is hardly the perfect age for this distance, although I suspect I wouldn't have had much raw speed even if I had taken it seriously in my early 20s. I ran a 9.49 3k on the track a few years ago, and have trained a few times at the Deeside track, but this was my first ever formal measured track mile. The pace was obviously hard from the off, but I held back a bit, unable to go with the pace of this first heat. By the second lap I managed to catch up a bit with my usual 'one pace' approach, tucked in behind Dave and Chris, then pushed as hard as I could on the last lap, narrowly failing to break 5 minutes. I will try a few more 1500m/mile races on the track this summer, if possible, before switching to the entirely contrasting (but also largely missing from my experience) ultras next year.
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Monday, June 26, 2017
Dinbren climbing
Crag: Dinbren, Eglwyseg
Routes: Sally in Pink (VS 4b:led), Astrola (VS 4b:sec), The Phoenix (S 4a:led), Nit Nurse (E1 5b:sec), Tower of Babel (VS 5a:sec), Babbling Arete variant (S 4a:led), Babel Face (HVS 5a:sec)
Although I rarely bother with trad limestone these days, this is a crag I have visited often in the past: I've been coming here for more than a quarter of a century. It has a lovely outlook over Dinas Bran towards Arenig, and the climbs are reasonably good. Sally in Pink is probably the route I've done most often in the entire valley: a nice, clean-cut groove and a strong line. It's not too polished, and the 'wobbly block' at half height is still there 26 years after I first put a sling round it! The dead yew tree is still there too. Vic then led the polished Astrola, before I nipped up The Phoenix, which again has a tree to negotiate but is a pleasant climb up a corner groove: couldn't remember bothering with it before. We took the opportunity to nip up Nit Nurse, a spicy E1 to the left. Nip being the operative word, as a technical wall of fine limestone leads to a steep, very powerful move over the threadable bulge to a juggy upper wall. Quite high in the grade, and a good, though short, route. The VS up the first 'tower' struck us as a tad overgraded, although the HVS led by Vic to its right is tricky - on rather fragile and snappy rock. Not well travelled, which is not surprising. I led up Babbling Tower, forgetting that the arete gives the better route, so switched to it half way up.
Routes: Sally in Pink (VS 4b:led), Astrola (VS 4b:sec), The Phoenix (S 4a:led), Nit Nurse (E1 5b:sec), Tower of Babel (VS 5a:sec), Babbling Arete variant (S 4a:led), Babel Face (HVS 5a:sec)
Although I rarely bother with trad limestone these days, this is a crag I have visited often in the past: I've been coming here for more than a quarter of a century. It has a lovely outlook over Dinas Bran towards Arenig, and the climbs are reasonably good. Sally in Pink is probably the route I've done most often in the entire valley: a nice, clean-cut groove and a strong line. It's not too polished, and the 'wobbly block' at half height is still there 26 years after I first put a sling round it! The dead yew tree is still there too. Vic then led the polished Astrola, before I nipped up The Phoenix, which again has a tree to negotiate but is a pleasant climb up a corner groove: couldn't remember bothering with it before. We took the opportunity to nip up Nit Nurse, a spicy E1 to the left. Nip being the operative word, as a technical wall of fine limestone leads to a steep, very powerful move over the threadable bulge to a juggy upper wall. Quite high in the grade, and a good, though short, route. The VS up the first 'tower' struck us as a tad overgraded, although the HVS led by Vic to its right is tricky - on rather fragile and snappy rock. Not well travelled, which is not surprising. I led up Babbling Tower, forgetting that the arete gives the better route, so switched to it half way up.
Saturday, June 24, 2017
Ras Moel Hebog
Race: Moel Hebog fell race (4.2m/2460ft)
Time/Position: 62.24 (14th from 63)
This Welsh Championship race was always likely to be a struggle, as the third race in four days, but it was rendered particularly draining given the flat-out nature of last night's Tattenhall team race. Having said that, it's the third time I've done this classic race, and it is probably the best kind of race to do in these less-than-ideal circumstances, with a steep 'walk' up and a descent that really depends on your willingness to risk a sprained ankle (or worse) on the loose rocks and scree that make up much of the upper part of Hebog. The weather was dank and humid with a cloud base around 1500ft, and the course has changed to take in an initial loop through the centre of Beddgelert first. Predictably, I was very slow on the climb and very relieved to be able to use my arms as we got to the rocky sections at the top. Some wind for the short summit ridge, then the usual awkward and hazardous descent, particularly tricky in the wet. Shifting scree, large boulders, trying to stick to the grass where possible. Given the circumstances, I had a reasonable descent and passed three runners, although Andy charged past just before we regained the path. I summonsed a bit more energy for the fast and flat run back to the hotel. Well outside my previous times for the race, but that is partly due to the longer course. An ideal family day out, as with Ras y Gader, and we all had a nice village walk and picnic to follow.
Time/Position: 62.24 (14th from 63)
This Welsh Championship race was always likely to be a struggle, as the third race in four days, but it was rendered particularly draining given the flat-out nature of last night's Tattenhall team race. Having said that, it's the third time I've done this classic race, and it is probably the best kind of race to do in these less-than-ideal circumstances, with a steep 'walk' up and a descent that really depends on your willingness to risk a sprained ankle (or worse) on the loose rocks and scree that make up much of the upper part of Hebog. The weather was dank and humid with a cloud base around 1500ft, and the course has changed to take in an initial loop through the centre of Beddgelert first. Predictably, I was very slow on the climb and very relieved to be able to use my arms as we got to the rocky sections at the top. Some wind for the short summit ridge, then the usual awkward and hazardous descent, particularly tricky in the wet. Shifting scree, large boulders, trying to stick to the grass where possible. Given the circumstances, I had a reasonable descent and passed three runners, although Andy charged past just before we regained the path. I summonsed a bit more energy for the fast and flat run back to the hotel. Well outside my previous times for the race, but that is partly due to the longer course. An ideal family day out, as with Ras y Gader, and we all had a nice village walk and picnic to follow.
Friday, June 23, 2017
Tattenhall Tough Team
Race: Tattenhall Tough Team (9m+)
Time/Position: 61.41 (6th from 197 [2nd team from 66])
Fourth time at this great event, but the first time I've ever done it properly as a team: much better, good fun and camaraderie, with a tactical element. Previously, I have always been middle man, isolated between Jez and either Eric or Steve. This time, Chris and Dave were my team-mates, which Chris has long suggested would make an ideal team. He was absolutely right, it worked really well - I tried to make up for the age gap (I was the oldest by some margin!) by keeping the pace steady, which is what I'd been employed to do. We stuck together for the first long road section, in the lead at this point, then teams from Helsby and Wallasey started to pull clear as we entered the long off-road section through the Peckforton Hills. We moved into second place, and held this on the infamous and outrageously steep railway, although could never quite catch the Helsby team. Chris slipped behind slightly, but by the time we reached the flatter fields we were all together again, which was brilliant as this is the most enjoyable section of the race with views out to the Cheshire plain. On the long road run in, we could see Helsby in front of us, tantalisingly close, but they had around a minute on Chris and I by the finish back in Tattenhall. Dave slipped a few seconds behind, but we were comfortably established in second place by then (the same position as myself, Jez and Eric finished in last year). Good fun, but then it was time for every recovery technique I could muster before tomorrow's important Moel Hebog race.
Time/Position: 61.41 (6th from 197 [2nd team from 66])
Fourth time at this great event, but the first time I've ever done it properly as a team: much better, good fun and camaraderie, with a tactical element. Previously, I have always been middle man, isolated between Jez and either Eric or Steve. This time, Chris and Dave were my team-mates, which Chris has long suggested would make an ideal team. He was absolutely right, it worked really well - I tried to make up for the age gap (I was the oldest by some margin!) by keeping the pace steady, which is what I'd been employed to do. We stuck together for the first long road section, in the lead at this point, then teams from Helsby and Wallasey started to pull clear as we entered the long off-road section through the Peckforton Hills. We moved into second place, and held this on the infamous and outrageously steep railway, although could never quite catch the Helsby team. Chris slipped behind slightly, but by the time we reached the flatter fields we were all together again, which was brilliant as this is the most enjoyable section of the race with views out to the Cheshire plain. On the long road run in, we could see Helsby in front of us, tantalisingly close, but they had around a minute on Chris and I by the finish back in Tattenhall. Dave slipped a few seconds behind, but we were comfortably established in second place by then (the same position as myself, Jez and Eric finished in last year). Good fun, but then it was time for every recovery technique I could muster before tomorrow's important Moel Hebog race.
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
Up the Beast fell race
Race: Up the Beast fell race (7.5k/2000ft)
Time/Position: 42.08 (8th from 79 [2nd V40])
Tired after a day climbing on the slate, I didn't really feel up to this as I arrived with just a few minutes to spare. But it is probably the only race that I have done every year since it started, perhaps 10 consecutive editions, so I felt obliged to continue the tradition! Unsurprisingly, my time was a couple of minutes down on last year, and even further down on my best times a few years ago, but I didn't feel too bad and ran a reasonably good tactical race. It is always a hot and humid race, particularly the airless second climb back to Bryn Alyn, but this year took the biscuit: pouring with sweat throughout the race. I gradually worked my way through the field and just about managed to keep it going for the 'new' finishing route through the Maeshafn woods.
Time/Position: 42.08 (8th from 79 [2nd V40])
Tired after a day climbing on the slate, I didn't really feel up to this as I arrived with just a few minutes to spare. But it is probably the only race that I have done every year since it started, perhaps 10 consecutive editions, so I felt obliged to continue the tradition! Unsurprisingly, my time was a couple of minutes down on last year, and even further down on my best times a few years ago, but I didn't feel too bad and ran a reasonably good tactical race. It is always a hot and humid race, particularly the airless second climb back to Bryn Alyn, but this year took the biscuit: pouring with sweat throughout the race. I gradually worked my way through the field and just about managed to keep it going for the 'new' finishing route through the Maeshafn woods.
Llanberis Slate Climbing
Crag: Llanberis Slate (California, Serengeti, Never Never Land)
Routes: We No Speak Americano (f6a:led), A Pair of Six (E2:sec), Serengeti Express (f3:sec), Peter Pan (f6a+:led), Sans Chisel Variation (f6b:sec), Hawkeye (f5:sec), Macsen (f5+:led), Fresh Air (f5+:sec)
Not the day we had planned, but it was the only option when Vic realised he'd forgotten the wires as we started to gear up at the base of Craig Ddu. A very hot and humid day in a dry week, hence our choice of that normally wet and forbidding crag, but the lack of gear forced our hand: slate was the only option. As it happened, it was an excellent one, and I suggested a 'touring' approach, which works really well and adds an extra exploratory dimension to the quarries. We walked past the now-banned Dali's Hole, getting great views down to the pool from the contouring path which leads to the tunnel through to California. I got the wrong tunnel initially, but then you emerge at the dripping wet initial pit, followed by another tunnel to the atmospheric upper level of California, a huge bowl of slate: massive boulders and big walls all around. Our route was, in contrast to all that seriousness, an amenable f6a, albeit in a sombre atmosphere far removed from the usual sports clip-ups. I led up a shallow groove, steepish but on excellent holds to a belay ledge. An easy aperitif, and it seemed logical to continue up the harder second 'pitch', which has some thought-provoking moves up a series of fairly steep bulges. One of these contained a wasp's nest - which meant an interesting 'mounting' of a sharp bulging arete trying to avoid it. The pitch was a good 30m long, absorbing and surprisingly good, in atmospheric surroundings: well worth the effort, all clean and on-sight. We took the opportunity to second A Pair of Six, less amenably bolted, but similar in standard: hard moves above the ledge, after which we lowered off for a delayed lunch. The mild adventure then continued, up the sliding scree to the top of the California bowl, then across a verdant area being reclaimed by birches and rich vegetation, up steps to rope up for the mini 'climb' up a stepped groove (Serengeti Express) which leads to a small plateau overlooking California. From here, a tunnel brings you out above the Serengeti level and big views across to Nant Peris and Yr Wyddfa. Some intermittent rainfall, but it was so hot that the slate was drying almost immediately. Because we were limited to sports routes, I decided to go for Peter Pan, an eye-catching and photogenic line I have looked at before. It is an unusual route, which takes a slanting and steep seam with all the bolts on the smooth wall to the right. All quite steep and slightly off-balance, but good holds all the way to the mildly famous crux at the top. This involves a hidden hold. Not sure if I found it, but my solution was to lay away off a sidepull before a very long reach for a long, flat hold and a powerful move to the top. A satisfying route to do clean and onsight. We nipped up the 6b further right, deciding to pass on the desperate-looking Nick the Chisel at 7b! The 6b takes a series of small ledges up to good moves on small pockets to gain easier flakes. On the way back to the car, we stopped at the edge of Never Never Land to do a few more routes: I seconded Vic up Hawkeye, which I've done before, then led Macsen in the rain up sharp flakes and a short corner. As is often the case here, this is absurdly overgraded and would probably be f4 in Provence. Fresh Air is always a nice way to finish: then it was a jog back to the car and a long journey to the start of the Beast race in Maeshafn, and part two of the day.
Routes: We No Speak Americano (f6a:led), A Pair of Six (E2:sec), Serengeti Express (f3:sec), Peter Pan (f6a+:led), Sans Chisel Variation (f6b:sec), Hawkeye (f5:sec), Macsen (f5+:led), Fresh Air (f5+:sec)
Not the day we had planned, but it was the only option when Vic realised he'd forgotten the wires as we started to gear up at the base of Craig Ddu. A very hot and humid day in a dry week, hence our choice of that normally wet and forbidding crag, but the lack of gear forced our hand: slate was the only option. As it happened, it was an excellent one, and I suggested a 'touring' approach, which works really well and adds an extra exploratory dimension to the quarries. We walked past the now-banned Dali's Hole, getting great views down to the pool from the contouring path which leads to the tunnel through to California. I got the wrong tunnel initially, but then you emerge at the dripping wet initial pit, followed by another tunnel to the atmospheric upper level of California, a huge bowl of slate: massive boulders and big walls all around. Our route was, in contrast to all that seriousness, an amenable f6a, albeit in a sombre atmosphere far removed from the usual sports clip-ups. I led up a shallow groove, steepish but on excellent holds to a belay ledge. An easy aperitif, and it seemed logical to continue up the harder second 'pitch', which has some thought-provoking moves up a series of fairly steep bulges. One of these contained a wasp's nest - which meant an interesting 'mounting' of a sharp bulging arete trying to avoid it. The pitch was a good 30m long, absorbing and surprisingly good, in atmospheric surroundings: well worth the effort, all clean and on-sight. We took the opportunity to second A Pair of Six, less amenably bolted, but similar in standard: hard moves above the ledge, after which we lowered off for a delayed lunch. The mild adventure then continued, up the sliding scree to the top of the California bowl, then across a verdant area being reclaimed by birches and rich vegetation, up steps to rope up for the mini 'climb' up a stepped groove (Serengeti Express) which leads to a small plateau overlooking California. From here, a tunnel brings you out above the Serengeti level and big views across to Nant Peris and Yr Wyddfa. Some intermittent rainfall, but it was so hot that the slate was drying almost immediately. Because we were limited to sports routes, I decided to go for Peter Pan, an eye-catching and photogenic line I have looked at before. It is an unusual route, which takes a slanting and steep seam with all the bolts on the smooth wall to the right. All quite steep and slightly off-balance, but good holds all the way to the mildly famous crux at the top. This involves a hidden hold. Not sure if I found it, but my solution was to lay away off a sidepull before a very long reach for a long, flat hold and a powerful move to the top. A satisfying route to do clean and onsight. We nipped up the 6b further right, deciding to pass on the desperate-looking Nick the Chisel at 7b! The 6b takes a series of small ledges up to good moves on small pockets to gain easier flakes. On the way back to the car, we stopped at the edge of Never Never Land to do a few more routes: I seconded Vic up Hawkeye, which I've done before, then led Macsen in the rain up sharp flakes and a short corner. As is often the case here, this is absurdly overgraded and would probably be f4 in Provence. Fresh Air is always a nice way to finish: then it was a jog back to the car and a long journey to the start of the Beast race in Maeshafn, and part two of the day.
Monday, June 19, 2017
Idwal climbs
Crag: Idwal Quarry (Ogwen)
Routes: Toasted Teacake Crack (VD:sol/sh), Toasted Teacake Slab (VD:sol/sh)
After breakfast, it was still only 6am, so I did a couple of short routes in the scruffy little gorge near Ogwen cottage. Pleasant, with the sunshine lighting the top half of the slab. Several variations on the slab to the right of the crack, trying to avoid the jugs. A bit of bouldering on the nearby Idwal Cottage Crag, including the three V1s, and it was time to drive to work.
Routes: Toasted Teacake Crack (VD:sol/sh), Toasted Teacake Slab (VD:sol/sh)
After breakfast, it was still only 6am, so I did a couple of short routes in the scruffy little gorge near Ogwen cottage. Pleasant, with the sunshine lighting the top half of the slab. Several variations on the slab to the right of the crack, trying to avoid the jugs. A bit of bouldering on the nearby Idwal Cottage Crag, including the three V1s, and it was time to drive to work.
Foel Goch
Peaks: Foel Goch/Nameless Peak
Area: Glyderau, Eryri
Having watched the sun setting at 10pm last night, I thought it would be nice to see it rise. This, for me, is the key to a good midsummer camp: uninterrupted views to the east and west. To combine that with a bit of shelter from the wind, and proximal running water, is unusual - which is why this site has been on my mind for some time. It was a very peaceful night, with light breezes gently rustling the tent and only the distant trickle of a stream. I was woken by a very early skylark, a delightful way to rise, so had a cup of coffee in my sleeping bag before running to the nearby summit of Foel Goch to watch the sun rise, dark red, above Llyn Cowlyd and Pen Llithrig y Wrach: memorable, and still well before 5am. Amazing clarity of light for distant views over the Irish Sea and Lancashire coast. I jogged down and sat on a natural rock chair to watch the early sun illuminate the east face of Tryfan as a raven cronked, as if greeting the first rays. After packing up, I ran straight down Bwlch Tryfan and Ogwen back to the car, where I had some porridge before doing a couple of climbs.
Area: Glyderau, Eryri
Having watched the sun setting at 10pm last night, I thought it would be nice to see it rise. This, for me, is the key to a good midsummer camp: uninterrupted views to the east and west. To combine that with a bit of shelter from the wind, and proximal running water, is unusual - which is why this site has been on my mind for some time. It was a very peaceful night, with light breezes gently rustling the tent and only the distant trickle of a stream. I was woken by a very early skylark, a delightful way to rise, so had a cup of coffee in my sleeping bag before running to the nearby summit of Foel Goch to watch the sun rise, dark red, above Llyn Cowlyd and Pen Llithrig y Wrach: memorable, and still well before 5am. Amazing clarity of light for distant views over the Irish Sea and Lancashire coast. I jogged down and sat on a natural rock chair to watch the early sun illuminate the east face of Tryfan as a raven cronked, as if greeting the first rays. After packing up, I ran straight down Bwlch Tryfan and Ogwen back to the car, where I had some porridge before doing a couple of climbs.
Sunday, June 18, 2017
Glyderau scramble and wildcamp
Peaks: Tryfan
Routes: Y Gully (M:sol), Noodle Groove (D:sol)
Area: Glyderau, Eryri
A magical overnight trip in perfect conditions, started late on a Sunday afternoon with all of Ogwen to myself. After a father's day lunch, I didn't set off until almost 5pm, heading straight up towards the upper end of the West Face of Tryfan with temperatures in the high 20s and not a cloud in the sky. I am gradually ticking off the routes on the West Face, none of which will ever be popular, but by judicious combinations the scrambling is almost as continuous as it is on the vastly more popular East. I'm not sure I'd ever bother coming here with a partner, but on a solo day its relaxed and exploratory vibe is perfect. I had full overnight kit, tent and stove, so needed to select my route carefully: I went for Y Gully, a very obvious line visible from most of Ogwen. The long and gentle stream bed/shallow gully leads directly into this line, which is characterised by three large chockstones. These look innocuous from below, but are slightly problematic, and the route is far better and more enjoyable than I'd expected. Good scrambling up clean rock leads to a runnel leading left over the second chockstone, then excellent and surprisingly steep rock, festooned with jugs, on the left of the third obstacle leads to a clean rib. I picked my way satisfyingly up the rest of the face to the North Tower, taking a line parallel to Notch Arete (another fine mountaineering route, done with John B a few years ago). By weaving around, this is rock the whole way up. Wonderful views from a deserted Tryfan summit: the clarity of light was, if anything, even better than from Arenig Fawr yesterday. I jogged down the South Ridge to Bwlch Tryfan, then along the contouring line which I'd used to good effect on the Rab Mountain Marathon, to reach my chosen campsite by Llyn Caseg Fraith. I have had this filed away for years as an ideal camping location, and it was nice to finally sample it: a superb spot and a truly magical campsite in this weather. Virtually no wind, cloudless skies, and as near to the midsummer solstice as to make no difference. The only real issue is that it is a rather boggy area, but I pitched on a raised platform - completely dry - then had a pleasant evening meal before doing some bouldering on the obvious juggy crag below the lake on the Ogwen side, complete with a perfect 'Diff' groove up the centre (which I christened Noodle Groove - because that's what I'd just eaten). A wonderful few hours passed, as the light changed constantly and the sun dropped between Tryfan and Bristly Ridge, just as I had hoped it would. Nobody was around, just the odd skylark and raven for company. After the sun dropped, the sky turned purple and, eventually, I turned in to read the 'review'.
Routes: Y Gully (M:sol), Noodle Groove (D:sol)
Area: Glyderau, Eryri
A magical overnight trip in perfect conditions, started late on a Sunday afternoon with all of Ogwen to myself. After a father's day lunch, I didn't set off until almost 5pm, heading straight up towards the upper end of the West Face of Tryfan with temperatures in the high 20s and not a cloud in the sky. I am gradually ticking off the routes on the West Face, none of which will ever be popular, but by judicious combinations the scrambling is almost as continuous as it is on the vastly more popular East. I'm not sure I'd ever bother coming here with a partner, but on a solo day its relaxed and exploratory vibe is perfect. I had full overnight kit, tent and stove, so needed to select my route carefully: I went for Y Gully, a very obvious line visible from most of Ogwen. The long and gentle stream bed/shallow gully leads directly into this line, which is characterised by three large chockstones. These look innocuous from below, but are slightly problematic, and the route is far better and more enjoyable than I'd expected. Good scrambling up clean rock leads to a runnel leading left over the second chockstone, then excellent and surprisingly steep rock, festooned with jugs, on the left of the third obstacle leads to a clean rib. I picked my way satisfyingly up the rest of the face to the North Tower, taking a line parallel to Notch Arete (another fine mountaineering route, done with John B a few years ago). By weaving around, this is rock the whole way up. Wonderful views from a deserted Tryfan summit: the clarity of light was, if anything, even better than from Arenig Fawr yesterday. I jogged down the South Ridge to Bwlch Tryfan, then along the contouring line which I'd used to good effect on the Rab Mountain Marathon, to reach my chosen campsite by Llyn Caseg Fraith. I have had this filed away for years as an ideal camping location, and it was nice to finally sample it: a superb spot and a truly magical campsite in this weather. Virtually no wind, cloudless skies, and as near to the midsummer solstice as to make no difference. The only real issue is that it is a rather boggy area, but I pitched on a raised platform - completely dry - then had a pleasant evening meal before doing some bouldering on the obvious juggy crag below the lake on the Ogwen side, complete with a perfect 'Diff' groove up the centre (which I christened Noodle Groove - because that's what I'd just eaten). A wonderful few hours passed, as the light changed constantly and the sun dropped between Tryfan and Bristly Ridge, just as I had hoped it would. Nobody was around, just the odd skylark and raven for company. After the sun dropped, the sky turned purple and, eventually, I turned in to read the 'review'.
Saturday, June 17, 2017
Arenig walk
Peaks: Arenig Fawr
Area: Arenig, Eryri
The first time for many years that Kate and I have been hillwalking as a couple. As such, it felt like the bittersweet beginning of a new era (although perhaps the children will finally come round to it one day!). After this morning's Parkrun, the day developed into a glorious midsummer afternoon. We headed up the track via Llyn Arenig Fawr, the bothy and the ridge, with a perfect cooling breeze to keep it comfortable. Superb clarity of light, with views to Cader Idris and Plynlimon, as well as Central Snowdonia, from the summit. After a relaxed lunch on the top, we headed down the fence line to the quarry but skirted the steep gully after both Kate's soles came off her boots (an indication of the length of the hillwalking gap!). I ran back to collect the car.
Area: Arenig, Eryri
The first time for many years that Kate and I have been hillwalking as a couple. As such, it felt like the bittersweet beginning of a new era (although perhaps the children will finally come round to it one day!). After this morning's Parkrun, the day developed into a glorious midsummer afternoon. We headed up the track via Llyn Arenig Fawr, the bothy and the ridge, with a perfect cooling breeze to keep it comfortable. Superb clarity of light, with views to Cader Idris and Plynlimon, as well as Central Snowdonia, from the summit. After a relaxed lunch on the top, we headed down the fence line to the quarry but skirted the steep gully after both Kate's soles came off her boots (an indication of the length of the hillwalking gap!). I ran back to collect the car.
Chester Parkrun
"Race": Chester Parkrun (5k)
Time/Position: 17.58 (2nd from 247 [1st V45])
The ultimate contrast with Ennerdale this time last week. The hottest day of the year and a flat, fast 5k. I haven't done any speedwork for several months, so expected to struggle, and did. The heat didn't help much, but at least the suffering is short lived and it is, after all, only a 'timed run'! My last Parkrun here was in torrential rain on April Fool's day, and the elements were against us again today but in a very different way: the heat was already building - well into the mid 20s - as we set off as usual at 9am. Elliot from Buckley took the lead, and I tried to stay with him as long as I could. He finished a few seconds ahead, and I struggled a bit over the cross-country section on the second lap. A valuable speed session, however, and a Parkrun PB (by 3 seconds) for me: although still over a minute slower than my 5k PB!
Time/Position: 17.58 (2nd from 247 [1st V45])
The ultimate contrast with Ennerdale this time last week. The hottest day of the year and a flat, fast 5k. I haven't done any speedwork for several months, so expected to struggle, and did. The heat didn't help much, but at least the suffering is short lived and it is, after all, only a 'timed run'! My last Parkrun here was in torrential rain on April Fool's day, and the elements were against us again today but in a very different way: the heat was already building - well into the mid 20s - as we set off as usual at 9am. Elliot from Buckley took the lead, and I tried to stay with him as long as I could. He finished a few seconds ahead, and I struggled a bit over the cross-country section on the second lap. A valuable speed session, however, and a Parkrun PB (by 3 seconds) for me: although still over a minute slower than my 5k PB!
Saturday, June 10, 2017
Ennerdale Horseshoe
Race: Ennerdale Horseshoe fell race (37k/8000ft/AL)
Time/Position: 6.13 (27th from 50)
Peaks: Great Borne (616m), Red Pike (755m), Green Gable (801m), Kirk Fell (802m), Pillar (892m), Scoat Fell (802m), Haycock (797m), Caw Fell (690m), Iron Crag (640m), Crag Fell (523m)
Almost a carbon copy of last year's Wasdale Horseshoe, in that we arrived in calm conditions on Friday afternoon, awaiting an accurately forecast unseasonal depression that arrived in good time for the notoriously arduous race. As a result, the event just became a survival mode plod, one of many I have participated in over many years (I don't really feel an urgent need to add more to the list!). This always makes for a memorable and enjoyable experience, and it was particularly so this year as all four of us did the majority of the horseshoe together and crossed the finish line at the same time. Waves lapped the shores of Ennerdale as we set off in high winds and driving rain. The initial climb up Herdus steepens continually and is very sharp at the top: from here, easier ground leads to the rockier summit of Great Borne, by now completely exposed to the full force of the wind. This remained an arduous headwind most of the way up Red Pike. I knew the rest of this ridge to an extent, but always lack the in-depth knowledge I have in Snowdonia. Indeed, I lost my nerve when following the racing line below High Stile on the Ennerdale side in thick mist, driving rain and a headwind, and myself and Jez climbed back onto the ridge through tricky scree: we did skirt the summits successfully though, avoiding both High Stile and High Crag to emerge on the scree run leading down to Scarth Gap along paths that were now torrents of running water. Despite missing the summits, and getting a good skirting line round the confusing and lumpy terrain of Haystacks, we still lost time over this section. From Scarth Gap, contouring leads to a steep climb up a fence line to emerge at Innominate Tarn - bleak rather than scenic in this weather - then down across a deep river crossing to the Blackbeck Tarn checkpoint. I was last here during the Rab in 2014, shirt off in glorious September sunshine! The next leg, to Green Gable, struck me as being the trickiest navigation on the route, so it was quite pleasing to get it more or less bang on. We caught up with Andy and Hayley (they had taken a better line over High Stile) then contoured round below some crags to pick up Moses Trod and hit the col below Green Gable without losing or gaining any height (I now had map and compass out the whole time). The weather remained appalling, but I had a bite to eat and began to feel more optimistic about our prospects as we descended from Green Gable and went our separate ways again. Jez and I dropped down to Windy Gap and traversed Great Gable to the north before taking a very direct (probably too direct) line right up the front of Kirk Fell. This was too far north up very steep mobile scree and small crags but still brought us out at the plateau and double summit of Kirk Fell - rather confusing in the mist (and possibly only the second time I've ever been up Kirk Fell) although the rain was at last beginning to get slightly lighter. The wind was at its worst, however, almost identical to the Wasdale race last year as we descended the very steep and rocky north-west ridge to Black Sail Pass. Wet rock and high winds made this tricky and demanded care. The climb up Pillar from here is very long, but was quite enjoyable, and not too windy until we approached the summit. We had gathered a few more runners around us, depending and Andy and I for the navigation for one last tricky section south-west from Pillar to Wind Gap then, staying cautious over the summit of Scoat Fell to finally pick up the wall leading to Haycock. Finally, it was possible to relax a bit although the run-in is very long, over Haycock, Caw Fell and Iron Crag: still misty, although the rain was beginning to ease and the terrain is kind underfoot, grassy, and this is the real difference with Wasdale, which obviously climaxes on Scafell Pike. So, although Ennerdale is longer, indeed the longest traditional fell race in the UK, it is probably true to say that it is a tad easier than Wasdale. The forest below the final low summit, Crag Fell, has now been cleared so the ascent route was a tad confusing initially: we took the obvious small path and dibbed the final checkpoint before the final, indirect descent back to the Scout Hut. The weather, ironically enough, began to clear (although we were much lower by now) and we finally got a view of Ennerdale! A series of waterfalls led to a section through conifers, then a meeting with Jos Naylor, before the final run to the finish line, which we crossed together. Lots of drop-outs and non-starters: another memorable outing.
Time/Position: 6.13 (27th from 50)
Peaks: Great Borne (616m), Red Pike (755m), Green Gable (801m), Kirk Fell (802m), Pillar (892m), Scoat Fell (802m), Haycock (797m), Caw Fell (690m), Iron Crag (640m), Crag Fell (523m)
Almost a carbon copy of last year's Wasdale Horseshoe, in that we arrived in calm conditions on Friday afternoon, awaiting an accurately forecast unseasonal depression that arrived in good time for the notoriously arduous race. As a result, the event just became a survival mode plod, one of many I have participated in over many years (I don't really feel an urgent need to add more to the list!). This always makes for a memorable and enjoyable experience, and it was particularly so this year as all four of us did the majority of the horseshoe together and crossed the finish line at the same time. Waves lapped the shores of Ennerdale as we set off in high winds and driving rain. The initial climb up Herdus steepens continually and is very sharp at the top: from here, easier ground leads to the rockier summit of Great Borne, by now completely exposed to the full force of the wind. This remained an arduous headwind most of the way up Red Pike. I knew the rest of this ridge to an extent, but always lack the in-depth knowledge I have in Snowdonia. Indeed, I lost my nerve when following the racing line below High Stile on the Ennerdale side in thick mist, driving rain and a headwind, and myself and Jez climbed back onto the ridge through tricky scree: we did skirt the summits successfully though, avoiding both High Stile and High Crag to emerge on the scree run leading down to Scarth Gap along paths that were now torrents of running water. Despite missing the summits, and getting a good skirting line round the confusing and lumpy terrain of Haystacks, we still lost time over this section. From Scarth Gap, contouring leads to a steep climb up a fence line to emerge at Innominate Tarn - bleak rather than scenic in this weather - then down across a deep river crossing to the Blackbeck Tarn checkpoint. I was last here during the Rab in 2014, shirt off in glorious September sunshine! The next leg, to Green Gable, struck me as being the trickiest navigation on the route, so it was quite pleasing to get it more or less bang on. We caught up with Andy and Hayley (they had taken a better line over High Stile) then contoured round below some crags to pick up Moses Trod and hit the col below Green Gable without losing or gaining any height (I now had map and compass out the whole time). The weather remained appalling, but I had a bite to eat and began to feel more optimistic about our prospects as we descended from Green Gable and went our separate ways again. Jez and I dropped down to Windy Gap and traversed Great Gable to the north before taking a very direct (probably too direct) line right up the front of Kirk Fell. This was too far north up very steep mobile scree and small crags but still brought us out at the plateau and double summit of Kirk Fell - rather confusing in the mist (and possibly only the second time I've ever been up Kirk Fell) although the rain was at last beginning to get slightly lighter. The wind was at its worst, however, almost identical to the Wasdale race last year as we descended the very steep and rocky north-west ridge to Black Sail Pass. Wet rock and high winds made this tricky and demanded care. The climb up Pillar from here is very long, but was quite enjoyable, and not too windy until we approached the summit. We had gathered a few more runners around us, depending and Andy and I for the navigation for one last tricky section south-west from Pillar to Wind Gap then, staying cautious over the summit of Scoat Fell to finally pick up the wall leading to Haycock. Finally, it was possible to relax a bit although the run-in is very long, over Haycock, Caw Fell and Iron Crag: still misty, although the rain was beginning to ease and the terrain is kind underfoot, grassy, and this is the real difference with Wasdale, which obviously climaxes on Scafell Pike. So, although Ennerdale is longer, indeed the longest traditional fell race in the UK, it is probably true to say that it is a tad easier than Wasdale. The forest below the final low summit, Crag Fell, has now been cleared so the ascent route was a tad confusing initially: we took the obvious small path and dibbed the final checkpoint before the final, indirect descent back to the Scout Hut. The weather, ironically enough, began to clear (although we were much lower by now) and we finally got a view of Ennerdale! A series of waterfalls led to a section through conifers, then a meeting with Jos Naylor, before the final run to the finish line, which we crossed together. Lots of drop-outs and non-starters: another memorable outing.
Wednesday, June 07, 2017
Pontesford climbing
Crag: Pontesford Rocks (Shropshire)
Routes: Oak Tree Wall Direct (HVD:led), Finale Groove (VS 4a,4b:sec), The Notch (S:sec), Wall End Climb (VD:led), West Crack (M:solo), Right-Hand Route (VD:led), Awaken (VS 5a:sec), Wall End Slab Direct p.2 (S:led)
With rain scheduled to sweep in from the west, a change to the usual routine was in order: so we headed east, to Shropshire, well away from normal stamping grounds but only an hour's drive for me. I know the Shropshire hills quite well for running, having done most of the classic fell races, but the majority of these are centred on Church Stretton. Pontesford sits above an even more tranquil valley, and is a truly delightful location. The climbing is not the best, perhaps, but the routes are pleasant enough and the aspect is worth the trip on its own. After a lot of recent rain, the valley below Earl's Hill was verdant and the skies were blue and the air crisp, with great clarity for the distant views to the Wrekin, Caer Caradoc and the Stiperstones. I set off up Oak Tree Wall for an aperitif, taking the main sweep of slabby rock (igneous - a rather smooth version of Welsh granite, running to flat holds and generally easy-angled). A tricky start over an overlap led to big flat holds then a rising traverse left to avoid the big ledge and keep the route continuous. We then adopted an interchangeable approach to routes further right. Vic led the first pitch of Finale Groove, which is a one move wonder from an inset slab over an edge to gain a bigger, easy slab. We were both initially baffled by the upper groove, so finished up The Notch, a slight thrutch with an unusual use of the posterior facilitating progress. Back at the bottom of the same slab, I led up Wall End Climb before Vic finished up Finale Groove, coming in from the right this time. A satisfying technical move with careful footwork gains the groove before an easier direct finish. I nipped up West Crack (which we'd descended the scrambling version of) before leading Right-Hand Route. Despite its simplicity, this was the best route on the crag in my view: a good long pitch straight up the cleanest and most attractive part of the face. Never remotely difficult, but a fine consistent route at the grade and very enjoyable. We finished with another one-move wonder further right: a 5a rockover to gain the Wall End Slab again. I finished up the obvious ridge, to complete the three variations possible from the big stance. It started to spit with rain as we descended: unconventional venue choice vindicated.
Routes: Oak Tree Wall Direct (HVD:led), Finale Groove (VS 4a,4b:sec), The Notch (S:sec), Wall End Climb (VD:led), West Crack (M:solo), Right-Hand Route (VD:led), Awaken (VS 5a:sec), Wall End Slab Direct p.2 (S:led)
With rain scheduled to sweep in from the west, a change to the usual routine was in order: so we headed east, to Shropshire, well away from normal stamping grounds but only an hour's drive for me. I know the Shropshire hills quite well for running, having done most of the classic fell races, but the majority of these are centred on Church Stretton. Pontesford sits above an even more tranquil valley, and is a truly delightful location. The climbing is not the best, perhaps, but the routes are pleasant enough and the aspect is worth the trip on its own. After a lot of recent rain, the valley below Earl's Hill was verdant and the skies were blue and the air crisp, with great clarity for the distant views to the Wrekin, Caer Caradoc and the Stiperstones. I set off up Oak Tree Wall for an aperitif, taking the main sweep of slabby rock (igneous - a rather smooth version of Welsh granite, running to flat holds and generally easy-angled). A tricky start over an overlap led to big flat holds then a rising traverse left to avoid the big ledge and keep the route continuous. We then adopted an interchangeable approach to routes further right. Vic led the first pitch of Finale Groove, which is a one move wonder from an inset slab over an edge to gain a bigger, easy slab. We were both initially baffled by the upper groove, so finished up The Notch, a slight thrutch with an unusual use of the posterior facilitating progress. Back at the bottom of the same slab, I led up Wall End Climb before Vic finished up Finale Groove, coming in from the right this time. A satisfying technical move with careful footwork gains the groove before an easier direct finish. I nipped up West Crack (which we'd descended the scrambling version of) before leading Right-Hand Route. Despite its simplicity, this was the best route on the crag in my view: a good long pitch straight up the cleanest and most attractive part of the face. Never remotely difficult, but a fine consistent route at the grade and very enjoyable. We finished with another one-move wonder further right: a 5a rockover to gain the Wall End Slab again. I finished up the obvious ridge, to complete the three variations possible from the big stance. It started to spit with rain as we descended: unconventional venue choice vindicated.
Saturday, June 03, 2017
Monadhliath jog
Peaks: Meall na h-Uinneig (745m)
Area: Monadhliath, Central Highlands
A short jog into the hills above our cottage in Laggan before our journey home. We had all enjoyed numerous walks directly from the cottage door as it was a working Highland farm, and I'd tried to locate an obscure crag (Creagan Solleir) on Thursday. I left at 6am in muted morning light: light blue sky above, and numerous curlews bubbling. Snipe, ring ouzel and peregrine (nesting on Solleir) completed the scene. A short track led to the spur which leads NE to the 'summit' of Meall na h-Uinneig, really just a highpoint on a long broad ridge leading down from the higher Monadhliath peaks.
Area: Monadhliath, Central Highlands
A short jog into the hills above our cottage in Laggan before our journey home. We had all enjoyed numerous walks directly from the cottage door as it was a working Highland farm, and I'd tried to locate an obscure crag (Creagan Solleir) on Thursday. I left at 6am in muted morning light: light blue sky above, and numerous curlews bubbling. Snipe, ring ouzel and peregrine (nesting on Solleir) completed the scene. A short track led to the spur which leads NE to the 'summit' of Meall na h-Uinneig, really just a highpoint on a long broad ridge leading down from the higher Monadhliath peaks.
Friday, June 02, 2017
Kingussie climbing
Crag: Kingussie, Badenoch, Central Highlands
Routes: Little Wall Direct (VD:sol), Finale (VD:sol), Classic Crack (D:sol)
On the way back from a family trip to Loch Garten, I had an hour spare in Kingussie for complex logistical reasons, so jogged up to the crag I'd visited on Tuesday. I did some bouldering and took in a few routes I'd missed last time. The main task was to find the side wall of the lower tier, which contains a classic easy romp up an obvious slabby crack. I eventually found it, nicely positioned above the valley, and scampered up the route: very simple, but delightful, and reminiscent of Ordinary Route on Idwal Slabs. I jogged back to meet K and E, and we enjoyed a pleasant walk round Kingussie's own miniature stream valley, and a walk through the woods, before fish and chips completed another excellent week in the Highlands.
Routes: Little Wall Direct (VD:sol), Finale (VD:sol), Classic Crack (D:sol)
On the way back from a family trip to Loch Garten, I had an hour spare in Kingussie for complex logistical reasons, so jogged up to the crag I'd visited on Tuesday. I did some bouldering and took in a few routes I'd missed last time. The main task was to find the side wall of the lower tier, which contains a classic easy romp up an obvious slabby crack. I eventually found it, nicely positioned above the valley, and scampered up the route: very simple, but delightful, and reminiscent of Ordinary Route on Idwal Slabs. I jogged back to meet K and E, and we enjoyed a pleasant walk round Kingussie's own miniature stream valley, and a walk through the woods, before fish and chips completed another excellent week in the Highlands.
Monadhliath run
Peaks: A'Chailleach (930m), Carn Sgulain (920m)
Area: Monadhliath, Central Highlands
An underrated range of hills that grabbed my attention from the top of Creag Dubh on Monday. Apart from the three Munros, the range is virtually deserted: in fact, it must be the wildest (or least trodden) stretch of land in the UK as it goes on for 30km or more towards Loch Ness. It is featureless beyond these hills above Newtonmore, but they have some unexpected little corners and are well worth exploring. It all made for a great little pre-breakfast run. I parked at the top of Glen Banchor, where we had all enjoyed the climax of the Wildcat trail yesterday. This valley is very beautiful: verdant and tranquil, and a considerable contrast with the wild atmosphere of the Monadhliath mountains immediately west. A good track meant that the running was easy and progress was quick up the obvious valley of the Allt a'Chaorainn. The first peak of A'Chailleach is a notable objective from Newtonmore, and a surprisingly shapely hill at close quarters too. I crossed the river and headed for the very lonely stalker's bothy high on the hillside of An Leitir before continuing to the broad upper ridge. All this was very runnable, still unusually dry underfoot. Unsurprisingly, I had the peak to myself - around 55 minutes from the car - and it seemed I had found a bit of a weather window in the sense that the high Cairngorms were clagged in, as were the other nearby Munros like Creag Meagaidh. But the Monadhliath were essentially clear, with cloud peeling away from Carn Dearg and others. There is a powerful sense of remoteness to this range, which I really liked. I always say I have no interest in Munro-bagging, because too many of them are uninteresting puddings, but I don't think it's fair to put the Monadhliath in this category. I ran north on superb springy turf, really fast, dropping into the hidden valley of the Allt Cull na Chailleach. This is surprisingly steep and tight, and a climb out of the far side leads to the genuinely dull Munro of Carn Sgulain, which really is one of the 'puddings' and almost devoid of distinguishing features. It does, however, allow for views over the real wilderness of the northern Monadhliath, very rarely visited. I dropped back to the valley, several pretty waterfalls and a real sense of discovery, picking my way satisfyingly through the crags to regain the main Chaorainn valley right at the top. A golden eagle spiralled on the thermals above Am Bodach. Fast running led back to the car, and the ten minute drive back to the cottage in time for breakfast and a day at Loch Garten.
Area: Monadhliath, Central Highlands
An underrated range of hills that grabbed my attention from the top of Creag Dubh on Monday. Apart from the three Munros, the range is virtually deserted: in fact, it must be the wildest (or least trodden) stretch of land in the UK as it goes on for 30km or more towards Loch Ness. It is featureless beyond these hills above Newtonmore, but they have some unexpected little corners and are well worth exploring. It all made for a great little pre-breakfast run. I parked at the top of Glen Banchor, where we had all enjoyed the climax of the Wildcat trail yesterday. This valley is very beautiful: verdant and tranquil, and a considerable contrast with the wild atmosphere of the Monadhliath mountains immediately west. A good track meant that the running was easy and progress was quick up the obvious valley of the Allt a'Chaorainn. The first peak of A'Chailleach is a notable objective from Newtonmore, and a surprisingly shapely hill at close quarters too. I crossed the river and headed for the very lonely stalker's bothy high on the hillside of An Leitir before continuing to the broad upper ridge. All this was very runnable, still unusually dry underfoot. Unsurprisingly, I had the peak to myself - around 55 minutes from the car - and it seemed I had found a bit of a weather window in the sense that the high Cairngorms were clagged in, as were the other nearby Munros like Creag Meagaidh. But the Monadhliath were essentially clear, with cloud peeling away from Carn Dearg and others. There is a powerful sense of remoteness to this range, which I really liked. I always say I have no interest in Munro-bagging, because too many of them are uninteresting puddings, but I don't think it's fair to put the Monadhliath in this category. I ran north on superb springy turf, really fast, dropping into the hidden valley of the Allt Cull na Chailleach. This is surprisingly steep and tight, and a climb out of the far side leads to the genuinely dull Munro of Carn Sgulain, which really is one of the 'puddings' and almost devoid of distinguishing features. It does, however, allow for views over the real wilderness of the northern Monadhliath, very rarely visited. I dropped back to the valley, several pretty waterfalls and a real sense of discovery, picking my way satisfyingly through the crags to regain the main Chaorainn valley right at the top. A golden eagle spiralled on the thermals above Am Bodach. Fast running led back to the car, and the ten minute drive back to the cottage in time for breakfast and a day at Loch Garten.
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