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.

Glyderau

Despite the continuing poor weather, Rich and I did manage a quick trip up the Glyders on 30 December. We left Pen y Gwryd in mild clag, up the Miners Track to the broad ridge above Caseg Fraith then to the summit of Glyder Fach in thick mist, fairly cold. Then across to Fawr and back via the tenuous path skirting Cwm Ffynnon to Pen y Pass and a pint. The day before, we ran from Llangwyfan to Bodfari over the top of Pen y Cloddiau and Moel y Parc in a fierce westerly wind.

Christmas hill runs

A disappointing Christmas, weather-wise and activity wise, with this week dominated by mild, wet weather after last week's superb crisp and clear conditions (when sod's law dictated I was stuck in work or visiting relatives in unfavourable locations). Started well last Friday (21st December) when I ran up Foel Fenlli from Llanferres in superb conditions of penetrating frost and winter sunshine. Cloud inversion to the foggy east, but remarkably clear over Snowdonia as I sat in shorts on the perfectly still summit in temps of around -4C, early morning. Drove to London via Warrington following this, then (for the ultimate urban-rural contrast) ran from Chingford to Leyton via the chaotic centre of Walthamstow next day. Had a couple of days off over Christmas and Boxing Day. Yesterday ran up Fenlli from Llanferres again, with Rich, this time in mild blustery conditions. Took in Moel Eithinen on the way back. Another good run today in similar exhileratingly blustery conditions from Hope to Waun y Llyn, down the paths to Coed Talon, along the old railway line to Llanfynydd. Back up the steep bridleway to the top of Waun y Llyn and back down to Hope.

Helena Tipping 10k, Tal y Fan, Loggerheads run

My final race of the year ended rather disappointingly yesterday, crossing the finish line at the Helena Tipping 10k in Wrexham nine seconds or so outside my pb in cold conditions (2C). Official time was 37:03, finishing in 19th place (from 300). I had hoped for 30 seconds or so quicker, particularly given the frequency with which I've done intervals since the Flintshire 10k in September, and the fact that I matched this time over a much hillier 10k last week. Still, this was my 32nd race of an interesting and notably varied year. It was also a varied weekend: on Saturday, I went up Tal y Fan from Llangelynin old church with Katharine and Dad on an unusually cold day - frozen turf and an icy drive up, but beautiful views over the tundra-like northern Carneddau in welcome winter sunshine. Finished off with an early morning run from Loggerheads today, up the leat to Cilcain then round the side of Ffrith along frosty tracks. Felt tired after the race, but at least the frozen ground eased progress through the marshy bits...

Tattenhall border league, Ffrith fell run

Pushed it a lot harder in the third border league fixture of the season at Tattenhall on Sunday: a 10k hilly route from the village south-east to Burwardsley Hill and back. Course suited me quite well, I was well rested and had no feasible excuses not to give it a good bash. So in some ways my 36th place (from 243) in 37:08 was a disappointment. But it was my highest ever placing in the league and the competition is rather intense, to say the least, as you get a bit higher up the field! My time was close to my Mold pb, and this over a very hilly course. Scored in 4th place for Buckley. Pleasingly, had recovered sufficiently for an early morning run extending last week's fell route - this time starting from Waun y Llyn down the bridleway SW to birch woods and then Ffrith village. Then up the route I discovered last week above Nant y Ffrith, this time running to the summit of Pen Llan y Gwr: great views in all directions, including the distant Snowdon horseshoe with Lliwedd clearly visible in clear, sunny weather. The Pennines fringed the opposite horizon. A bitter wind made hanging round in running gear unwise though, so I continued the run down the hill NE - superb open fell running with fantastic views - to Pentre Farm to reascend the wooded path and bridleway back to Waun y Llyn. Delighted to have discovered these routes on my doorstep.

Foel Fenlli, Pen Llan y Gwr

Another quieter weekend, but managed to push the mileage a bit with a longish run around Llay and Burton on Saturday and a shorter outing on Sunday. Eve and I scampered up Foel Fenlli in gales and showers on Sunday: strong three-year-old legs and a game performance! Also had a remarkably muddy run from Frith to Llanfynydd, then south-west up ludicrously boggy tracks (knee deep viscous mud in places) to just below the top of Pen Llan y Gwr and down Nant y Ffrith. An interesting area: completely new to me, but should offer some good hilly training runs.

Full moon run up Moel Famau

A quiet weekend, not great weather, no races. But a full moon and clear sky allowed for a tremendous run up Moel Famau on Friday night. Always memorable to run in the hills at night, it was -3C at Bwlch Penbarras when I set off, the moonlight casting a clear shadow and illuminating the frosted fields and iced pools as I ran to the summit. A longish nine or ten miler on Saturday got me up to around 34 miles for the week, so getting closer to an acceptable training volume again.

Border League, Birkenhead

A reasonable performance in the 2nd Border League fixture of the season: a 5.5m, four lap circuit of Birkenhead Park. I was eight places down on Prestatyn, finishing 48th from the usual strong field of 270, just a tad over 33 mins. Given recent problems with my hamstring and cold, I'm fairly satisfied with this but need to work a bit harder if I'm to finish higher up the field as the season progresses. Still not back in full training (30 mile wk), but had an excellent night-time run around the lanes last Thursday. Entered the Paris marathon today after a tip-off from Dave, so an easter of pain looks on the cards, particularly if I get a London place (which is one week later).

MBR trail, Coed y Brenin

No races this weekend, but my injury seems to be righting itself, so I took the opportunity to up the training closer to the level I was at before the 'tweak'. A longish run of nearly 10 miles around Dodleston, Pulford and Rossett was a good start on Saturday. Then Rich and I paid our first visit to Coed y Brenin for a few years to do the new MBR trail - short but quite demanding both physically and technically. A surprising number of tricky rocky descents, compensated for by good open views over Cader Idris and the superbly quick and smooth pink heifer singletrack section leading down to the river. The new centre is splendid and it looks like the other trails - all of which I've done in their old form (Red Bull, Karrimor) - have been altered slightly. Today dawned clear, crisp and cold - in contrast to recent drizzle, so I went for a rewarding early morning run up Waun y Llyn - great views over the entire Sandstone trail and the Clwydians, flocks of redwing overhead - running back along a very muddy bridleway on the Ffrith side.

'Over the top' Clwydian MTB, Abergele 5 road race

After the OMM disappointment, things got worse last Tuesday when I tweaked my hamstring during intervals with the club. Out of action for the rest of the week, icing the injury, trying unsuccessfully to jog, all rather annoying. By the weekend, it felt a bit better but by then I'd developed a cold! Felt a bit cooped up, so myself and Rich did a quick variant of the 'over the top' mountain bike circuit over the Clwydians ridge on Saturday morning in low cloud and unforecast persistant drizzle. Enjoyable as ever, with an excitingly wet descent down to Gellifor and one very long skid! The climb back to Penbarras took it out of us, though, so all in all I was hardly in a great position for the hilly Abergele 5 mile road race on Sunday, which I probably shouldn't have bothered with. But I had a jog along the seafront with the children in the morning and felt OK and, indeed, the first three miles went well. I felt my cold, but not my injury (much), and was in about 20th place until the steep hill on 3 miles when I blew up completely and lost at least a minute, possibly more. Eventually limped home in a very disappointing 31:16 for 34th place from 246.

OMM Lowther Hills

A disappointing experience in my first mountain marathon over the weekend. It had all gone pretty well, really enjoyable, with my navigation standing up to the test in some pretty bad conditions later in the day - mist, rain, gales - and a great, interesting route through a suitably obscure area (the Lowther Hills are north of Dumfries). But after a long haul from checkpoint 9 to 10, with tricky navigation, we failed to find 10 along with a big group of other teams. We did eventually find it in the wrong place but by the time we came to the final checkpoint my partner Gary had slowed dramatically, and was obviously starting to suffer, unable to make the steeper ascents at the end (we were on the B course, 25k, 2000m climbing over a few of the main peaks in the area including Green Lowther and Lowther Hill). So we didn't start day two. A real shame, the first time I've had to abandon anything - particularly galling as I was really enjoying the challenges of the event. Still, there are plenty of events to go at next year, and at least one full day is better than none.

Pen y Cloddiau

No racing this weekend, as I wind down before the mountain marathon in Scotland. Instead, spent the weekend with the children in St Asaph. The weather was, of course, perfect: as it invariably is when there is no chance of doing anything more ambitious. Still, we had two nice outings - one in the hills above Llanfair TH, then up Pen y Cloddiau with Morgan, Eve and Katharine on the Sunday. Some reasonable training runs, too: about 34 miles last week.

Eglwyseg climbs

Took advantage of the last vestiges of evening light, and the slight indian summer, to meet Alwyn for rock climbing at Trevor last night. Managed rapid ascents of a number of routes I'd targeted on my last visit. Cluedo is a good, quite delicate steep slab on good compact rock (f5+). We then did a couple of trad routes on Railway Buttress: Puffing Billy a good, though short HS 4a lead, a sharp positive crack with perhaps the best, roughest rock in the valley (previously seconded). Then came Over the Wall, a very good traverse line on the Compact Wall with a technical but brief f6a crux right at the top. Also led three easy sports climbs: Hot Dog, K9 and Deputy Dog, and seconded the trad severe Ivor the Engine. Lovely evening sunshine and a very pleasant atmosphere, so much so that I ran along the Panorama in the fading light to finish.

Prestatyn border league

A race of two halves yesterday at the first Border road race League fixture of the season in Prestatyn (5.1 very flat miles by the sea). Was going very well, feeling strong, until the last half mile or so when I began to lose it quite badly. I held on, struggling, for 40th place from the usual strong club field of 265 in a time of 30:15 - but may have lost as many as 10 places in the last half mile. The margins are so tight in these events that any kind of slackening is likely to cost a lot of places. Still, 40th is my best finish in the league - in this, my 10th Borders outing. Presume Buckley did quite well overall, but not sure if we won the team event. Next day, had a nice early morning run from Loggerheads along the Alyn to Cilcain then over the hilly bridleway below Ffrith back to the car park. Falling leaves, sunny spells, still not much mud, very therapeutic.

Tryfan

A drizzly, rather unpleasant trip up Tryfan today with Rich. We wanted to do one of the harder scrambles, so went up to the Heather Terrace with climbing gear. But the cloud was low, the rock streaming, and prospects grim. So we continued to the summit and pelted down the west gully back to the car without further ceremony.

Sandstone Trail race, Penmachno mountain biking

A rather strenuous weekend, culminating in the 28k/17+ mile Sandstone Trail race yesterday. This is a tremendous event, brilliantly organised, covering new territory for me. It started from the woods on Bickerton Hill in magical conditions of light mist and sunshine. The race then covers fell-running territory over the main ridge of the Peckforton Hills, beautiful and exhilerating in the early sunshine. It then traverses Beeston Tor to switch to flatter terrain over farmland, with the ground rearing up again to a difficult finish past Kelsall and up through the tracks in Delamere forest. I had nowhere near enough mileage in my legs and inevitably suffered over the final five miles, losing lots of places to finish in 2:21 for 32nd place. Still, I had no plans to really race this event so am pretty satisfied with an enjoyable and unusually varied outing. Travelled to the start with Dave and his Penny Lane club mates, which was nice: also good to see Dave B from Buckley at 13 miles. I'd had a terrible night's sleep on Saturday which didn't help, particularly as it followed an excellent mountain bike trip around the 22km Penmachno circuit with Rich in perfect weather on the Saturday. Great riding, particularly the initial triple singletrack descent and the final rocky descent towards the head of Cwm Penmachno. Seems to be taking off as a venue, which will be great (I hope) for the village, my paternal ancestral home...

Mold 10k

Broke 37 mins for the first time yesterday at the Flintshire 10k in Mold. A pleasing performance, particularly as I felt relatively comfortable and controlled throughout. Was concentrating on 6 minute mile pace: inevitably lost some time on the hills but kept pushing at sub 6 minute pace for 36:53 - over a minute quicker than my previous Market Drayton pb set in May - for 17th place from 321. After a quick bacon bap at Llandegla cafe, I warmed down a little more intensively than planned (!) with a blast around the red mountain bike circuit with Rich. The new bike again making this a lot more fun than it used to be.

Mynydd Llantysilio morning run

Possibly unwisely, I followed up a good intervals session last night (3:21-3.27 pace) with a morning run from the Horseshoe Pass over Moel y Faen, Moel y Gamelin, Moel y Gaer and Moel Morfydd. Cold, damp, misty and unpleasant (contrary to the weather forecast) and I was rather tired from the previous evening. Ran down to the lonely road at the western end of the ridge, then climbed back onto the ridge at the summit of Morfydd by mistake (no map - had been trying to locate the bridleway that runs east), gradually running out of energy at this point and feeling vulnerable in shorts and t-shirt, no jacket, hat or gloves. My error proved a blessing in disguise, though, because the weather dramatically improved as I ran back across Moel y Gaer and the main ridge - crisp sunshine, great views out to central Snowdonia and the coast. But hard work as I struggled, tired back over Gamelin to the Pass.

Guilden Sutton 10k

My first road race since May produced a reasonable performance last Sunday, narrowly missing a PB with 38:03 in the Guilden Sutton 10k. Fairly breezy and undulating, and a strongish field, so 28th from 284 was OK.

Nesscliffe Nasty, Clwydian run

Another slight improvement in the Nesscliffe Nasty XC race (5 miles) on Saturday. The race is all off-road, very steep in places, among the crags and woods west of this Shropshire village. I finished 13th from 92 in 32:22. Felt reasonably comfortable, but again failed to push to pick up places. Just back from a great run from Llanferres to Foel Fenlli then down to Penbarras and along OD to Moel Gyw. Then back via Llanarmon (90 mins). Nice crisp sunny weather, but too damp from earlier showers for rock climbing at Pot Hole.

Eglwyseg climbing

A good day's climbing with Alwyn, about nine routes - mainly bolted - on the Suspect Walls and elsewhere. Forensic science, Innocence and Proven Guilty finished off the 5s on the Suspect Walls, having done the 4s with Steve a fortnight ago. Nice climbing, largely blunt aretes broken by a middle band of ledges and overhangs. On the Impact Walls, Impaction and Sudden Impact were also two good 5s up obvious aretes - while Hot dog was an easy 4 on good rock right of the Fudd Walls. Also got to the top bolt on Impact Imminent, a good, sustained TR 6b which at least reminded me of what harder rock feels like after all these years! The best day's climbing I've had for a few years. Went for a quick run after this, with a race tomorrow - conscious I've done little this week save intervals on Tuesday: but a conference in Cardiff was less healthy!

Frodsham

Not a great week, felt tired throughout. Had a good run through the hills above Pwllglas with Gary on Sunday, about six miles almost all off-road. And on Friday visited Frodsham crags for the first time: an interesting venue, short but very steep and hard. Did a few boulder problems, but felt the need to shunt most of them, unwilling to risk a broken ankle. Thin Crack, Flake Crack and a few others. Have given up on the Peris horseshoe, just not fit enough.

Brenig race, Trevor Rocks, Castle Inn

Another quite encouraging performance last Saturday with 17th place at the Llyn Brenig multi-terrain race. A nice loop of the lake, hilly and 'fell-like' terrain to the north, on small paths, then fire roads and tracks elsewhere. Just failed to break the hour, finishing in 61:29. Next day, met Steve for a day chasing showers. We walked over Moel y Faen and Gamelin first, in drizzle and wind. Then chanced our arm at the Suspect Walls, Trevor, managing three bolted routes between showers. Clue, So? was the best, a nice f4 arete which I led comfortably and enjoyably - good move over a small roof. Who's Sam and Prime Suspect were also reasonable. Intervals with Buckley on Tuesday, after a play on the Helsby crags, then another spot of bolted leading on Wednesday at old favourite Castle Inn, where I led Route 1 in the damp for the eighth time, and also Finale. Just got back from a worrying run: real loss of form as I tried to run up Hope Mountain. Not sure what the problem is, possibly just tiredness.

Moel Famau race

Quite a pleasing performance in the Moel Famau (Cilcain mountain) race yesterday, the fourth time I've done it. Shaved over a minute off last year's time to finish in 34:36 for 20th place from 125. Theoretically a strong field, as it was a counter in the North Wales champs this year. My best time and highest finish.

Clwydian run

A good week for training, despite a long weekend in London/Loughborough. Managed a 16-odd mile run across the Clwydians from Cadole on Thursday, to at least put myself in a position to do the Peris horseshoe if I feel able to (mid Sept). Ran to the Alyn then up Ffrith and over to the Garth path to the col, then over Moel Dywyll to Moel Famau. Down to Penbarras, then up OD over Fenlli to the junction near Clwyd nurseries, then NE via Fron-heulog to Pen y Waun and back to Cadole via Tafarn y Gelyn: 2:10. Some runs in London, then a good intervals session last night: 3.25 pace average, with the last at 3:22, probably the fastest session I've done.

Trevor Rocks

A good rock climbing session last Friday, two days after the Ponderosa fell race (on which I was 21st from 100, in 30:48). Managed 8 shunted routes at Trevor Quarry, including four big ones on the main slab: Long John Silver (VS), Silver Line (HVS), Dino (VS) and Gold Flash (VS). All quite good and leadable. Also managed a few more routes, including two splendid short routes on rough limestone (Puffing Billy etc). The bolt lines look interesting round here too. I ran up Dinas Bran after this, then along Offas Dyke for an hour or so. Rather tiring. Training is going quite well, I am considering the ludicrous Peris horseshoe race in September...Did the red MTB circuit at Llandegla on Monday, new bike bedding in very well. Then intervals yesterday, some at 3:24 pace.

Snowdon race, Ponderosa race, Llandegla Black, Conquering hero, Eglywseg rock climbs

Problems with computer so no posts for a while. Snowdon race on 28 July went pretty well: I summited in an hour, but got a stitch on the way down to finish in 1:33 for 121st place out of 500-odd. Great day for all the family - we then stayed in Conwy for the weekend. Some good runs the week after, getting back into harder training. Ran up Waun y llyn from the house in about 43 mins, then back, and some harder training with the club. Did some shunted routes at World's End on 3 August - Hornbeam Wall (VS) and three others. Two days after Snowdon race, did the Black MTB circuit at Llandegla on my new mountain bike, a DiamondBack Apex. Great stuff - also did the Conquering Hero loop around Rhewl on 6 August. And went up Moel Findeg with Morgan and Eve. Yesterday did the Ponderosa 4 mile hill run around Cyrn y Brain, great race in beautiful weather.

Green grass fell race

A reasonable performance in my first race back after the various trips abroad, with 18th place (51mins) in the Green grass of home fell race - which is basically a 6 mile figure of 8 based on a double climb up Moel Dywyll on the Clwydian ridge. This was the 3rd and last of the Clwydian summer trots fell race series: I was 14th in the first (Druid) and missed the second. I feel I've lost most of my speed since being away, and tried to pick the running up last week to compensate - managed about 35 miles including a Buckley intervals session, an 11 mile run around Hawarden and Broughton, and a run up and around Hope Mountain. Snowdon race on Saturday.

Tatra traverse

Back home now after a superb traverse of the Slovak Tatra with Pete. After meeting at Krakow airport, we began the traverse from Skalnata Chata, following the popular waymarked trail NE to the secondary peak of Vel'ka Svistovka - superb views over the traverse which was to follow. Descending into the Zelenom Plese valley in worsening weather, we bagged beds in the hut - then I went for a quick trip up the Cervenad Dolina to bag the splendid peak of Jahnaci stit (2230m), sadly in thick mist. But a great little ridge, weaving in and out of rocky towers and short traverses. Met Pete back at the hut. Next day, the crux of the route. We hired a guide to accompany us up Vel'ka Zmrzla dolina - a legal requirement if leaving the waymarked route in the Tatra, sadly. But the day was superb - albeit in slightly dodgy weather. Up a steep ridge on chains to gain the upper valley, then snowfields and another steep ridge to gain the stupendous 'breche' of Baranie Sedlo. The weather began clearing for the descent to lunch at the Teryho hut where we left the guide. Then west over the equally spectacular col of Priecne Sedlo via Pfinnova Kopa, then down SW to Zbojnicka Chata where we spent the night in the loft. Final day saw us continuing wesr to the third spectacular pass - Prielom. Then tortously up via Pol'sky hreben to bag the excellent peak of Vychodna Vysoka (2429m). Then a huge but superb descent north down Bielovodska dolina to the Polish border at Lysa Polana. After a night in Bibiana's hometown of Kropachy in eastern Slovakia, we headed back to Krakow after a really memorable Tatran traverse.

Alpine days, Esterel rock, Provencal walks

Back from a wonderful family holiday in Provence. Enjoyed by all, with lots of walks in the Esterel mountains, swimming, snorkelling and various outings. Managed two Alpine trips, one with a small bivvy in St Martin Vesubie (!) before climbing Cime du Mercantour from Boreon via the Cerise and Mercantour lakes. Descended the remote Erps valley after a brief detour to bag the rocky side peak of Caire Negre du Mercantour. A fabulous day in a remote part of the park. The other Alpine day also started from Boreon, walking up to the Col de Salese then the steep SW ridge of Pointe de Rogue to the very awkward terrain and route finding on the Serre de Rogue over to the main peak of the Cime du Rogue: again, another new and interesting area. Climbed the Cime du Pagari du Salese, before linking this to the Col Fremamorte via a narrow, scrambly ridge (I or I+), finally bagging the easy peak of Cime Fremamorte before descending via the sylvan glades of Camp Soubran. Another tremendous outing. We all went to Haute Provence, walking up Blaque Meyanne for views of Lachens, Brouis etc. And indulged in some family rock climbing. Morgan got up his first route, an F3 at the Gorges du Blavet (La Capelle - a children's venue). Also climbed at Dramont and Theole in the Esterel. Great easy bolted venues, esp enjoyed the 20m long Arc en Ciel at Theole. Lots of nice walks, and good hill runs up Pic de l'ours and Pic du Cap Roux. Morgan and I found some caves above St Baume. Lovely weather and a great time. Off to the Tatra this evening!

Carneddau fell race

Another enjoyable fell race yesterday, and a much more ambitious undertaking: the Carneddau race from Bethesda up Carnedd Dafydd, Carnedd Llewellyn, Yr Elen and Gyrn Wigau. One of my favourite areas, and I really wanted to do a race over multiple peaks to assess how I would cope. Unfortunately, this was another British championship race so a little disheartening in terms of finishing position. But I only ever intended to take it easy, just to see how I would cope. Ran all the way to the Dafydd headwall in torrential rain, then steep walking to gain the summit in just under an hour from Bethesda. Then great running across a very misty and cold (4 or 5c) ridge to Llewellyn, through the gloom to Yr Elen and then the cruel finish over Foel Ganol and down to a very boggy Cwm Caseg before the final climb over Gyrn Wigau - agonising - then down north-west in another deluge to Bethesda. Finished in 2:26:19 for 115th place (from 178). Compare this to last Wednesday in the Clwydians - 14th place from 73 in 41:17! Off to Provence tonight.

Druid fell race

My summer fell race/peak bagging campaign started well here. A great little race and a promising performance. Not sure where I finished but think I might have been top 15 or 20, in around 40 mins. The 5 mile race starts from the Druid pub in Llanferres and heads past Clwyd nursery and a very dark and muddy wood towards the OD path and steep route up Foel Fenlli. Then contours round with superb views down to the Vale of Clwyd, to ascend the steep Penbarras side back to the top of Fenlli (like the old Clwyd Gate-Fenlli race). Then a fast and steep (now sunny) descent to the woods with a little more climbing. Suited me quite well and a good preparation for Sunday's potentially very challenging Carneddau race.

Glyder Fawr

Tim is back from NZ for the first time in 5 years or so, and after a few drinks on Saturday night we met Steve in Ogwen for a sociable outing up Glyder Fawr via Bochlwyd, the False Gribin spur and the crest of the Gribin ridge. The mist cleared on the ridge, but the rock was rather wet: still, it was a shame we didn't have time for anything more ambitious and I left the climbing gear in the car. But it was a day for chatting and nostalgia, reminiscing about former (and planning future!) days in the hills, more than anything else. Running is going quite well, I've got some big fell races next week - then comes our fortnight in Provence followed by a trip to the Tatra with Pete that we've just organised.

Cyffylliog MTB challenge, Famau run

Decided on a whim yesterday morning to do the Cyffylliog MTB challenge (largely because the children woke up very early and the weather was nice). My bike wasn't up to it really, so I had to do the short route (25 miles) and even that was tricky in places with no suspension and no rear brake! But the event was well worth doing, a nice route with some good singletrack and interesting, scenic riding throughout. Particularly enjoyed the riverside (Clywedog) track at the end. I'll come back to do the long one with a functioning bike next year. Running is now almost entirely off road: myself and Shane enjoyed an excellent run up Moel Famau from Loggerheads last Thursday, via the gorge and Ffrith mountain. A great circuit in the evening, feeling quite good.

Hope Mountain

A fairly relaxed week following the marathon disappointment. Managed about 20 miles last week, recovered pleasingly quickly after the marathon and managed a few good paced runs and even some hill reps yesterday. Today, had a trot up Hope Mountain from the village via some overgrown footpaths (rather disappointing) and ferocious dogs (one attacking me on the way down from the trig point). Jogged over to Waun y Llyn, then down to the village. Nice to have it so close, but hardly ideal for the training I need for forthcoming fell races (I intend to concentrate on fell races over summer).