Beinn Damh

Peaks: Spidean Coire an Laoigh (903m)
Area: Beinn Damh, Torridon
This hill benefits from an isolated position south of Torridon, well away from the more high profile peaks north of the Glen. The day started dry, with a high cloud base, so we'd all walked along the shores of Loch Clair for superb views of Liathach followed by a magical moment as a golden eagle wheeled above Beinn Eighe lit by a sudden shaft of sun. After this, we drove to Shieldaig for coffee and cake in a prolonged heavy shower: all rather unsettled and very different to yesterday's sunshine. For lunch, we walked up the Beinn Damh path from the Torridon hotel through lovely pine woods. A waterfall on the Allt Coire Rhoill made a fine backdrop for our slightly damp picnic. I then continued upwards for another quick hill run. The weather really closed in as soon as I left the woods: heavy rain, brisk winds, and all rather unpleasant as I followed the path up Toll Ban to the obvious broad col below Meall Ghorm. The mist closed in as I ran up the broad NW ridge, skirting the 868m forepeak and following a tenuous path through scree slopes to emerge on another sub-peak. As soon as I gained this top, the mist miraculously cleared giving views over Loch Damh to the west, and down to Shieldaig. For a while, the mist shifted in and out, then dramatically cleared again to the west as the ridge narrowed slightly at a small col: views as far as Applecross this time, but still misty to the east giving photogenic views of the main peak. I got to the summit in 50 mins or so, and the wind then tore all the cloud away leaving brilliant views east to Sgurr Ruadh and the Achnashallech peaks. Finally, I could appreciate what a fine peak Beinn Damh is, typical Torridonian structure, and I decided to give it due respect by making a traverse by descending the steep NE ridge (Stuc Toll nam Biast) to the Drochaid Coire Roill. This goes down rocks to gentle grass, then becomes very steep and hard to read from above. After a few cautious forays too far west, I spied a cairn and located a little path through a series of rocky buttresses which gave an interesting and intricate route down to the Coire Roill. Stupidly, however, in my haste to get back to the family in the hotel I didn't bother to check the map for the location of the stalker's path and just stumbled blindly through the boggy wilderness west of the river. So the subsequent nightmarish aquatic flounder back to the woods was entirely my fault and richly deserved. It didn't take long though, and the family had only just returned to the car when I got back to the hotel.

Liathach

Peaks: Stob a'Coire Liath Mhor (983m), Spidean a'Choire Leith (1055m), Am Fasarinen (927m), Mullach an Rathain (1025m)

Area: Liathach, Torridon
The finest mountain in the British Isles in my opinion, but although I'd driven past it a couple of times in the past, I'd never actually done the full Liathach ridge. It made an obvious early target as it was only 15 minutes drive from the cottage in Kinlochewe, but as ever on these holidays I didn't want to cut into family time, so took an ultra-lightweight running approach (as far as that's possible on a peak like this) while they had lunch. There's certainly no tedious walk-in, as the steep ascent begins immediately from Glen Torridon. A well-constructed path up the side of the Allt an Doire Gharbh leads to a broader upper amphitheatre, the Coire Liath Mhor. The angle eases for a while before steepening as the path curves east to weave up through a series of sandstone walls: nice scrambling, and I enjoyed selecting the most interesting lines up several chimneys to gain the ridge below the sub-peak of Stob a'Coire Liath Mhor. Superb views across the deep trough of the Coire Dubh Mhor to the superb massif of Beinn Eighe (the eastern end of which dominated the view from our cottage window). Beinn Dearg also impressed: for me, this is the best landscape in the UK and, as I had so little previous experience in Torridon (just Alligin and Slioch in 2005) it was a mouth-watering prospect to get to grips with the hills this week. The ridge narrowed immediately, giving exciting jogging to gain the sub-peak. Then the mist rolled away from the main summit of Spidean as I scrambled up snow fields and steep scree to the summit in just over an hour from the road after a 1000m climb. An impressive dominant peak, with superb views over the rest of the ridge. Exposed rubble slopes then led down to a little col and grassy traverse before the famous scrambling section over the Am Fasarinen pinnacles. The sun came out as I began the traverse, warming my hands to perfection at exactly the right time. I stuck to the crest, which gives excellent solid scrambling in a great position above two deep glens: fairly exposed in a few places initially. Some interesting down-climbing led to a gentler section then superb easy scrambling to the top of the highest pinnacle. A little more rock work on the crest leads to a small col then grassy slopes to the top of the second munro, Mullach an Rathain. Superb views from this peak, as the sun broke through even more impressively. Alligin, Dearg, Bhaosbeinn, Ben Damh all sunlit to perfection, as was beautiful Loch Torridon a vertical kilometre below. It had taken two hours to this point, so I had a quick banana and pelted down the screes above Tuill Bhan. This gives a very steep initial descent to good running with numerous tiring twists and turns down to the road: 2:45 road to road, so plenty of time left that afternoon to walk the upper ridge trail from the cottage with K and E. A great start to the holiday.

Drumochter Hills

Peaks: Geal Charn (917m), A'Mharconaich (975m)
Area: Drumochter Hills
These peaks rise to the west of the main A9 thoroughfare near the Drumochter Pass. But unlike most of the moorland puddings in these parts, A'Mharconaich is a shapely and eye-catching peak which seemed worth a quick run up to break the long journey to our holiday cottage in Torridon. The day dawned clear and sunny after a night in Stirling, so I ran up Geal Charn from Balsporran while the family had a drink in Dalwhinnie. Good running led to a boggier track up the front of Geal Charn, a dull whaleback summit: I reached the top in 40 minutes or so. Not as much snow as expected (after big falls last week) but still some big fields (melting rapidly). Great views over to remote Ben Alder and superb running down to the broad snowy col above Coire Fhar. From here, another steep pull gains the long flat summit of A'Mharconaich, which fails to fulfil its promise from the road. The summit is at the North-East end, and great running led to this before a wonderful, memorable descent down the perfectly angled NE ridge. Bogs lower down slowed progress back to Balsporran, and Kate had arrived back by the time I arrived - around 90 minutes for the round.

Montenegro mountain run

After a few days in Bosnia-Herzegovina, found myself with a couple of hours spare time in Kotor. This is a famous and rather stunning spot, on the far side of the large fjord which makes this corner of the Balkans seem like a Mediterranean version of Norway. I jogged through the old town, heading for the hills, and surprisingly quickly located the start of the path up Lovcen. This is the second highest peak in Montenegro (a very mountainous country) and therefore a long day from sea level. I just concentrated on seeing how high up I could get in the time available, and passed a wonderful wild tortoise low on the path (seemed appropriate). Superb, sunny views over the Bay of Kotor - lucky, given that this is supposedly one of the wettest places in Europe due to the unusual topography, up there with Iceland. Subalpine warblers were present in the bushes, and it was with some regret that I ran back down to the old town from my high point.

Burbage Skyline

Race: Burbage Skyline fell race (9k/400m)
Time/Position: 47:54 (71st from 357)
Always nice to have an away day race in an alien region, and having spent the afternoon climbing on the gritstone edges fringing the race route from the Fox House pub above Sheffield I was really looking forward to a relaxed blast round this circuit, albeit nursing my injured knee. I always enjoy a 'skyline' race, as the nature of the challenge is so compelling, and have particularly fond memories of Edale and Stretton: which are both a bit longer! It was also nice to be able to relax and start at the back of the field in warm evening sunshine, although such was the amazing size of that field (compared to Welsh races) that I realised I'd been a bit too relaxed as soon as the race started. I was stuck towards the middle of the pack and didn't get a clear run for 20 minutes, by which time I was miles off the pace! The race went up an absurdly narrow path, just walking, then dipped down towards a stream, and up a boggy path to heathery running up to Over Owler then Winyard's Nick. Then came two short climbs, the second quite steep, to gain the highpoint at Higgar Tor: another famous crag. Finally, I had clear ground in front of me, although the knee pain kicked in quite badly for the steep 'plummet' descent down to Burbage Brook and a tight, scenic little valley. We then crossed the river at the road near Burbage North, where I'd just been climbing, before a superb and long gradual (hobbling with knee pain) descent along the bouldery path fringing Burbage Rocks back to the finish as the sun set beautifully over Higgar Tor. Quality of the field was amazing, although perhaps not surprising given proximity to Sheffield. I ran back to the pub then hopped into the car to get to Jon's house in Matlock before 9pm, ready for a 6am drive back to Chester.

Stanage/Burbage climbing

Crag: Stanage Edge, Peak
Routes: Fire Curtain (VD:sol), Square Buttress Wall (VS 4b:sol), Square Buttress Corner (D:sol), Square Chimney (M:sol), Velcro Arete (HS 4c:sol), Zip Crack (M:sol), Mantelpiece Crack (D:sol), Mantelpiece Buttress (D:sol), Small Crack (VD:sol), Grotto Slab (D:sol), Eeny (HVD:sol), Meeny (HS 4b:sol), Miny Arete (HS 4b:sol), Easy Jamming (HVD:sol)
Crag: Burbage North, Peak
Routes: Little Plumb (D:sol), Cranberry Wall (VD:sol), Cranberry Crack (VD:sol), Steptoe (M:sol)
My old pal Jon, a lifelong Peak resident, had recently been in touch. So I took the opportunity to head across for an evening fell race before meeting him in Matlock. I arrived a bit early, and the sun was shining, so it seemed rude not to take advantage of the fact that my climbing gear was still in the boot from yesterday! Admittedly, getting a few routes in before the race had always been in the back of my mind, but the weather made it even more attractive, so I headed up to the little walls that run to the north of Stanage Popular, and enjoyed myself on some short easy climbs. The corner of Fire Curtain was followed by the more technical Square Buttress Wall up little 4b edges. As ever, my lack of grit schooling shows itself whenever I come here - which hasn't been very often over the years. Still, it was all very enjoyable. I liked Velcro Arete with its 4c start, and the ultra-easy Mantelpiece routes. I went up and down Small Crack from the easy top section, and took in the longer climb of Grotto Slab, which I've done before. Although this section of cliff is less busy than the rest of Stanage, however, it's still far too busy for my taste so I wandered over to the isolated Apparent North section, which immediately appealed to me, if only because you can get a bit of peace. A few short routes concluded with the delightful short crack of Easy Jamming, which does what it says on the tin. I then drove down to Hathersage, got wireless access in a cafe, marked some dissertations over a pint of tea, and then drove back up to Burbage North to do some more short routes (and because the fell race was going to head this way later in the evening and it seemed appropriate). The weather was even better, the warm sun perfectly lighting the crag. I curtailed the visit, however, wanting to preserve at least a bit of energy for the race after a tiring few days, and headed for pre-race coffee and cake at the Millstone pub.

Cwm Lloer climbing

Crag: Craig Lloer, Ogwen
Routes: The Rib (S 4a:led p.1,3), Kirkus's Route (VS 4a,5a,4a:led p.1,3)
I've spent a lot of time up in this wonderful cwm over the years: indeed Kate and I were here on the first day of the 21st century. I've done all the snow climbs, and walked/run the ridge dozens of times: in short, I like the place, but surprisingly I'd only ticked a couple of the rock climbs and had never done the famous Kirkus route, which takes the most obvious line on the crag. It seemed a perfect choice for Vic and I today, and so it proved: an early start, absolutely stunning spring weather, and an ideal way to avoid the Bank Holiday crowds. The crag is east-facing, and as we rounded the corner after a relaxed and very enjoyable walk-in, our choice was vindicated. Apart from one party on the easy North Ridge, which I did with Steve many years ago, the crag was deserted - but sun-drenched. The clarity of light was superb, and there wasn't a breath of wind as I led up the first pitch of The Rib (selected as a gentle re-introduction to trad mountain routes after an even longer than usual winter lay-off). A tricky move gains the top of a short pinnacle, then another tricky move up a mossy slab to an unfortunate vegetated section. As soon as I saw the next pitch, a beautiful clean 120ft rib snaking upwards, I selfishly regretted the fact that it was Vic's lead! It gave a superb pitch with wonderful gentle climbing in the sunshine: completely unheralded, and therefore unpopular and unpolished. A couple of steeper sections gave pause for thought, but it was generally a romp up positive little holds, neatly sustained at the lowly grade. I led a shorter third up a groove to a step left to the continuation of the rib line. A nice descent down the Y gully and a sunny lunch. It was then time for Kirkus's Route, which takes an easy chimney to an steep little groove which leads to some pleasant slabs. The meat of the route is provided by the second pitch, a seemingly vicious off-width crack which actually goes a little easier than expected. Vic made slow but steady progress up the pitch. It is a little too wide for decent jams, but some small ledges on the walls provide the odd foothold to ease progress. That said, the move to gain the chockstone is still a tricky thrutch, but above this a long reach gains an arete hold left of the crack, which then gives access to the big holds on the top of the right wall. The wind picked up for my enjoyable final pitch, which was still sun-drenched. It traverses right to gain the edge of the arete: up this, to moves left to gain the top of an obvious square groove, then easy slabby climbing in a nice position to the top. A delightful descent back into the sunny cwm, then gently down following the stream to Ogwen - wheatears singing all the way.

Llangynhafal Loop

Race: Llangynhafal Loop fell race (7.6km/533m)
Time/Position: 45:17 (20th from 140)
Still tired after the marathons, with a damaged right knee, and no fell races since November: I thought it prudent to start well back! Although I struggled greatly on the descents with my knee, however, this could have been worse and my time was less than a minute slower than last year. I picked up a few places on the fast, flat valley running up to Nant y Ne, and continued the slow plod up the valley towards the gully. Felt reasonably good on the climbs, which was surprising given the road focus of the last few months. But suffered on the descent from Moel Famau, and continued to suffer on the peaks and troughs of the ridge over Dywyll. If memory serves, I went over the top of the final climb last year in second or third place: this year, with a much stronger field and me a minute down, was a different story. A painful and very slow final descent - after which I carried on jogging back to the village to meet Kate at the pub.

Penmaenhead climbing

Crag: Penmaenhead, Colwyn Bay
Routes: Intruder (f5+:led), Go with the Flow (f6a:led), Dead Moggy Syndrome (f6b:sec), The Double Helix (f6a+:sec), Tan y Lan Kids (f5:sec), Big up the Lizard (f5+:sec), Broken Blackbird (f5:sec), Steak Slice (f5:led)
An ideal evening venue, especially in this week's beautiful spring weather. West-facing, so the climbing was in the warm evening sunshine throughout, a nice contrast to previous visits to this crag which have almost all been freezing and sunless. I kicked off by leading the steep line of Intruder at f5+, which looks pretty unpleasant and dirty from below but which is actually a good route. It is steep, though, and not an ideal warm-up given my lack of recent climbing. It goes up blocky rock to a horizontal break, then gets even steeper up a series of small shelves on big holds: all quite pumpy for the grade. Mick and I then moved further left, where I led the excellent Go with the Flow - theoretically a grade harder, but quite slabby and technical (and very low in the grade). I've done it before, it's one of the best climbs here, up delicate flowstone features involving little pinched stalactites and fingery climbing up small pockets - delightful in the warm sunshine. The 6b to its left was tough and bouldery initially, quite sustained, and I finished rightwards. Likewise the 6a+ to its right is also much harder with a puzzling crux which is easy to get wrong. The sun began to drop a little, but continued to light up the face as we finished off with some easier routes, most of which I've done before.

Clwydian Mountain Biking

MTB Route: Cilcain Short Loop
The usual consensus is that 48 hours post-marathon is the low point, so it seemed a good idea to loosen my legs by cycling to and from work today. Due to numerous roadworks, this ended up being much longer than the usual 20 mile round trip - but certainly relaxed the limbs. A beautiful evening seemed in prospect, so I managed to continue the cycling theme by persuading gaming enthusiast M to turn off the Xbox and do the short Cilcain mountain bike loop from the viewpoint car park. Superb spring weather, at last. No wind, blue skies and a nice gentle climb up the drover's road to the ridge: good views of Aran and Arenig. M found it a little tough, but the hills are wonderfully dry underfoot at present, perfect MTB conditions, and he loved the fast grassy descent down the bridleway and track to the Pump House. He wasn't so keen on the climb back up, so I had to get the car and pick him up!

Manchester Marathon

Race: Manchester Marathon
Time/Position: 2:54:01 (78th from 7000)
Some way outside my 2:49 target time, but still a PB by almost four minutes - so it would seem churlish to be too disappointed. Boston was perhaps a little too close, less than 13 days, despite holding back so much with a view to a serious PB attempt today. But the main problem was the same as ever, the sticking point that that has afflicted every one of the 17 marathons I've done: not enough 18-20 milers in training. The event was a lot better than I'd expected, however, even if it was rather distasteful to have to park underneath the Fergie statue at Old Trafford (and pay £9 for the privilege). Perhaps not the most scenic or atmospheric of courses, but the crowds were friendly and supportive, and the whole event had a nice local feel - and could perhaps become a decent northern alternative to London. For me, it was a huge advantage to sleep in my own bed and, even more importantly, to be in my own bath by 1pm! I started out at target 6:30 per mile pace, keeping this churning over quite precisely and comfortably. Went through 10k in 39:59, got in with a decent group through the leafy streets of Sale, which sadly started breaking up at 9 miles. The halfway point comes in Altrincham, and I went through bang on target in 1:24:30. After a gel, I felt even better on the return leg (at least initially!) and enjoyed watching the waves of runners coming through on the other side of the road. But at around 19 miles I began to suffer, the inevitable result of my lack of training, and really hit a low point as we entered bleak open fields near Flixton. The headwind, which I'd worried about all day, became a problem here and I couldn't stay with any other runners. My situation was semi-desperate for a while, but at least I'm no stranger to this kind of pain, so managed to steady my pace and luckily grabbed a gel in Urmston at 21 miles. This allowed me to just about resume my sluggish progress back towards Stretford. Chip times were a little dodgy: my watch had me at 2:53:56 or so, whilst my chip time came out initially as 2:52:30, which was definitely wrong!

Wrexham Border League

Race: Wrexham 4m+ (Border League race 7)
Time/Position: 22:05 (10th from 274 [3rd V40])
The climax of another league season, and it was as tight as ever: just a few points separating 2nd from 4th in my category. The final race of the season is usually the most competitive of all, so it was a big surprise to record my first ever top 10 finish (after over 40 BL races) given that my target was just to maintain this season's run of top 20 finishes. I did feel good for some reason, around this very familiar one lap circuit of the lanes east of Wrexham: the best I've felt at a race for months and months, come to think of it. Felt comfortable at around 5:25 per mile, and kept a reasonable pace churning over, picking up numerous places right through to the line. The results were unfortunately wrong at the presentation afterwards, as this final performance hadn't been recorded for the male vets! But eventually I ended up 2nd V40 for the season, same as last year, and 6th overall. Finished with 91 points, which is my lowest total in seven or so years of competing in the league.

Boston Marathon

Race: Boston Marathon
Time/Position: 3:15:16 (4783 from 23000)
The oldest marathon in the world by a considerable margin, and the only one that requires a qualifying time. It has always been the US marathon that most interested me, so I thought I would use last year's sub-3 run at London to get a place last September. I had no intention of racing today, but wanted to use it as a final (rather extravagant) long brisk run before going flat-out for a sub 2.50 PB in Manchester at the end of this month. As a result, I could enjoy myself the day before, walking around Boston and soaking up the ambience despite continuing jet lag. It's a unique and historic point-to-point course through a series of lovely New England towns, with a fantastic atmosphere which started the moment I got off the train from New York on Sunday (I particularly liked the fact that the race was so closely linked with local Massachusetts identity). A one-hour bus journey takes all the runners from Boston to the start at Hopkinton, where we all relaxed in the early morning sunshine. The race itself was fantastically enjoyable - freed from any pressure to go for a time, I just jogged gently along the classic course and soaked it up as a 'tourist': the only problem was that my qualifying time put me near the front in Wave 1, so I had to concentrate on not holding up the other runners. From Hopkinton it goes very gently downhill through Ashland and Framingham to the famous 'scream tunnel' of college girls in Wellesley, which you can hear almost a mile away. I went through half in 1:33 or so, which was a tad quicker than I'd intended. The crowds built throughout, and all the towns were delightful typical New England settlements. After Newton, a series of hills build up to the infamous 'Heartbreak Hill' at the 20 mile point. If I'd been going for a time, this would have been extremely unpleasant. As it was, it just made for a bit of variety with superb crowd support. My Welsh flags got lots of attention from the crowd, and the support got even better as we entered Brookline and saw Central Boston getting closer. Then it was through the suburbs, past the Red Sox stadium at Fenway Park - with a match in progress, as is traditional on Patriot's Day - then down Beacon Street to the finish on Boylston. It all reminded me a bit of when I did London in 2010, again consciously taking it easy before going for a later PB: marathons are so much more fun when you're not eyeballs out! I carried on jogging through the finish and back to the hostel on Stuart Street, and was enjoying a reuben and some craft ale in the wonderful Jakob Wirth bar next door when I heard the dreadful news about the explosions.

Central Park run

I've always fancied running around Central Park first thing in the morning, so after flying into NYC midday yesterday, I had a 6am breakfast at a classic diner then jogged up Lexington/Park avenue as the sun lit the tops of the skyscrapers. A big relief after the cold, wet and windy weather I'd arrived in yesterday. I jogged through the park, enjoying the contrast of the towers rising above the verdant greenery, then stopped for a few hours birding in the Ramble. Peak spring migration: highlights included purple finch, pine siskin, carolina wren, northern cardinal and many more. Then jogged through the park past hundreds of other runners to the Upper West side, to get the subway to South Ferry and Staten Island.

Deeside Border League

Race: Deeside 5.5m (Border League race 6)
Time/Position: 32:14 (20th from 291 [4th V40])
Slightly longer than previous BL races around these tracks and roads, which made it a bit more enjoyable. I set off quite slowly and felt a bit better than I had on the Spring 5 last week, although this was still my worst finishing position of the entire season. I concentrated on catching up with Jez during the first half of the race, and we worked quite well together, gaining a few places before he sprinted away from me in the last 200m. I just about maintained my record of top 20 finishes in every race this season, although there is no doubt that I've got progressively slower!

Kinnerton-Llangollen run

A family pub lunch booked in Llangollen, and me needing to get one last long run in before the forthcoming Boston and Manchester marathons: serendipity! The obvious response was to run there from home in a reversal of the route I'd done with Dave in preparation for the Icelandic ultra marathon back in 2008. It was a lovely outing, in cold but refreshingly still conditions of milky sunshine. Left Kinnerton for the gentle climb up to Hope followed by the savage triple kick climb from Abermorddu to Cymau. From here, Minera moor loomed ahead: clearly under a great deal of snow, and I began to suspect that the road might be closed! I descended to Ffrith, then up the bridleway towards Bwlchgwyn. This was blocked in 15-20 places by trees that had fallen over under the weight of snow. A mixture of slush, ice, running water and snow underfoot - much branch vaulting and limboing to make progress. With some relief, I gained the little lanes leading to a snowy Bwlchgwyn: several feet of snow have been lying in places here for over a fortnight now. Down towards Coedpoeth then up to Gegin and Minera and finally the start of the climb up to the moor on the World's End road. As I suspected, the road was closed, and after a mile or two of tarmac I realised why: it was choked with snow. Cue an interesting 4 or 5k section across the moor, unable to see the path of the road, forced to locate myself by the masts on Cyrn y Brain and other landmarks. Mercifully, the snow was still relatively solid at this time in the morning, although deep drifts and some surface breaking made the going pretty tough at times - good for the tan, though, with warm sunshine giving the moor an Alpine feel. The deep snow continued across the entire moor and down to World's End: it will surely be some time before this road is open. As soon as I gained the Eglwyseg valley floor, however, the road had been cleared. Superb running along this towards Dinas Bran and the final long descent to Llangollen: glorious views of the valley below. Met the family in town in good time for lunch (by strange coincidence, I'd also run from home to the Grosvenor Arms in Aldford last Thursday).

Idwal ice climbing/Y Garn mountaineering/Famau run

Crag/Peak: Cwm Idwal/Y Garn, Glyderau
Routes: Central Route (wIII 3,3,2:led p.2), Banana Gully (wI:descent)
The truly extraordinary winter conditions continue in Eryri, so it was great to have another opportunity to briefly get out there during my Easter break - shame I was a little restricted by various embarrassing injuries. Mick was free too, but only for the morning, so we started early from Ogwen and ploughed up to the crags in superb conditions of gradually rising cloud and relatively light easterly winds by recent standards. Central Route is one of the few remaining gaps for me in terms of the accessible ice climbs in Idwal, so Mick led up the long shallow ice groove which gives the climb its identity (my arm and neck still aching after 'whiplash'). This is a good pitch, more open than neighbouring climbs South Gully and Chicane Gully, albeit not as memorable as either of these. In contrast to Face Route on Monday, however, progress was eased by the amount of traffic this climb has had over recent days: hooks possible, and some precise little steps kicked out in places. A steepish initial section of water ice leads to an easing on good neve, before another steep but excellent section of quite brittle ice goes up to a ledge and screw belay. I led off up the second pitch, which takes in a few more steps of enjoyable water ice before easing into a snowy gangway. This gently spirals off to the left, above South Gully, and I ran the rope out to belay on screws on another water ice step. Mick led up a final slabby section of ice and we split up above the drifts on top of South Gully: Mick descended and I ploughed up to the ridge of Y Garn in the familiar strong easterlies (back again!) but also some hints of sunshine: the line of Monday's outing, Face Route on Cyrn Las, is particularly notable from here. At the summit, I got out of the wind for lunch, and enjoyed a superb show as the cloud lifted from every peak and the sun started to peek through. As I descended the NE (Banana) ridge, two chaps emerged from Banana Gully. They reported nice neve conditions, so I traversed across to the gully from the ridge. This was pseudo-Alpine in the sunshine: deep, crisp neve, and absorbing movement across to the gully. This gave an excellent descent, and was particularly enjoyable as Banana Gully was the first winter route I ever did - with Tim in 1989 perhaps? The snow wasn't particularly consolidated at first, but wasn't too bad, and got better as the gully narrows a bit as it curves. Cwm Clyd is beautiful in these conditions, under metres of snow with the lake frozen solid. After a quick bite I descended quickly to Llyn Idwal, removed crampons and jogged to the car. After the long drive to Cadole via a coffee in Mold, I joined the Friday night run up Famau: a mixture of drifts and slush, but it was nice to look across to a sunlit Ogwen (and Y Garn!) from the summit in the same day, and the descent remains snow-covered and very good fun. As usual after this kind of day, I bonked on the steps above Loggerheads and was virtually walking by the time I got back to the pub.

Chester Spring 5

Race: Chester Spring 5m
Time/Position: 28:46 (23rd from 295)
A little tired going into this race, still suffering after Sunday's long run and Monday's full day of winter climbing. Worse, I'd sustained whiplash injuries in an absurd sledging accident! This was always going to be a bit of a struggle as a result, but it was still a very disappointing outing. I went through 2 miles in 10:50, the quickest part of the course, feeling quite good and aiming for sub 28m. I know every inch of this course, as it is a few hundred metres away from my office and a regular lunchtime training run for me, but despite this I still blew completely after the hill at 3 miles. The last two miles were a real struggle as a result and I lost a lot of time and places.

Cyrn Las winter climbing

Crag: Cyrn Las, Llanberis

Routes: Gwter Fawr (II:sol), Face Route (IV 4,3,3,3,3,2:led p.3,5,6), Cyrn Las Ridge (I/II:sol)

Unprecedented ice climbing conditions for the time of year, so it was good to finally get the chance to take advantage on April Fool's Day. The Pass was almost deserted as we started the walk-in under disappointingly leaden skies - the ferocious easterly still blowing hard - perhaps some explanation for the lack of crowds on Easter Monday. We were both tired, me after yesterday's 21 mile run, Vic after a triathlon, so took almost an hour to reach the crag. All very atmospheric, though, with huge drifts in places and the ice-streaked cliffs of Cyrn Las towering above. Indeed, apart from the winter trade route of Sergeants Gully, I'd only previously visited this crag for the ultra classic rock climb of Main Wall, 20 years ago. Our chosen line of Face Route is immediately obvious, even from the road, a series of linked icefalls leading to a snowfield and exit gully. It looked good and lengthy, and we moved up easy slopes to gain the start of Gwter Fawr, a simple but spectacular grade I climb that traverses the face via a narrow gangway - rather like a more exposed version of Jack's Rake. It was very icy today, and we enjoyed good sport taking a few steeper variants until we arrived higher up Gwter Fawr at a belay. I then followed Vic up the superb first pitch of Face Route: solid water ice up to a steep bulge, which was solid grade IV throughout but went a little more easily than it looked, even with my archaic tools! It eased a little after an exposed move round the bulge, and led to a more delicate traverse on frozen turf and snow-ice. The second pitch, conversely, was harder than it looked and remained more Vic's territory than mine: slabby water ice, a little more fragile, and quite sustained, frontpointing made harder by fierce gusts of wind, and very little evidence of previous ascents. From here I led a short third up to a niche before Vic led through up another steep little pitch to an easing. The route wasn't over, however, and I led a long pitch up a series of easy slabby little walls, just an inclined snowfield really, to gain the bottom of the long exit gully. This was a very nice contrast to the climbing below: a classic gully, much easier, but atmospheric with great rock architecture and tremendous views across the valley. An icy chockstone was fun, and a couple of other short bulges led to a final easy angled exit funnel. After descending to free a jammed rope, we continued up the top section of the fine Cyrn Las ridge: a superbly contrasting finale, making this long route even more varied, a splendid 1000ft blend of steep technical water ice, easy snow climbing, exposed gangways, atmospheric gullies, and a narrow Alpine ridge. And it had seen very little traffic, which added to the pleasure. Surprisingly good snow conditions on the ridge (in comparison to last Tuesday, for instance!) but quite challenging: as was the walk along to Cwm Glas in a very strong and very cold wind. It was hard to make progress in places, and we took some time to locate the complex descent, which weaves through troublesome ground right of Parsley Fern gully to gain the base of Cwm Glas: a glacial bowl of deep snow, completely deserted. From here, a mixture of glissading and jogging got us down to the Pass in half an hour or so.

Long run

This was vital, but too little too late: only my third genuinely long run in preparation for two forthcoming marathons. Left early to repeat the route of three weeks ago: HK-Bretton to Grosvenor Bridge, then along the Dee to Queensferry and up to a snowy Hawarden. I extended and flattened the homeward route, taking in Dobs Hill and Penymynydd to get up to 20+ miles.

Clwydian runs

The snow has stuck around, on the Clwydians and elsewhere: a remarkable spell of Easter weather. After sledging in Cadole on Thursday, I went back later on with Jez and we ploughed through some deep drifts on a run to the top of Famau. A superb descent on soft virgin snow in Alpine weather of blue skies and warmish sunshine. Repeated the outing with a bigger Friday night group this evening: equally enjoyable.

Crafnant/Geirionydd Skyline run

Peaks: Grinllwm, Mynydd Deulyn, Crimpiau, Craig Wen, Craiglwyn, Creigiau Gleision
After leaving Chester post-work, set off from Trefriw with John B and Mick for initially delightful running in soft snow past Fairy Glen and up through the trees on the slopes of Grinllwm to the extraordinary Llanrhychwyn church. Had a break while we looked round this (the oldest church in Wales?) before heading through more enchanted snowdraped woodland to open hills and glorious running over the slopes above Geirionydd. The hills of the Carneddau materialised through the mist as we ran south towards Castell y Gwynt (near the Marin MTB trail) then down to the lake before climbing over the shoulder of Mynydd Deulyn to Crafnant. Along the lakeside path then up steeply south towards Clogwyn Mannod and the Capel Curig path. Some icy stretches on the climb up Crimpiau, but superb views towards Ogwen and Mymbyr: reminded me of northern Norway, almost glacial in appearance. I was particularly pleased that US guest star John could finally get a decent impression of Eryri. We hit the first major drifts as we traversed across to Craig Wen, then the going got really tough for the climb over the side of Craiglwyn. We were on the leeward slopes: a mixture of the anticipated waist-deep drifts and unstable thin snow crust. This is always an exhausting combination, running was impossible, and John began to fall behind. Despite some sunshine, the now familiar bitter easterly wind scythed into us as we struggled to gain the summit of Creigiau Gleision through the drifts - felt similar to topping out on an Alpine 4000er, such was the effort involved! The windward slopes were little better, not scoured as we'd hoped and we waited for John before the final descent to the forest. Lucky we did, as it became immediately obvious that he was semi-hypothermic. Mick and I wrapped him up in our spare clothes (he had none), fed him, then supported him down. I left Mick to descend with John, ran through the forest, down to Crafnant and all the way down to Trefriw (a good speed session!) so I could get the car back up to meet John at the lake. He'd thawed out by Colwyn Bay.

Wilmslow half marathon

Race: Wilmslow Half Marathon
Time/Position: 1:19:59 (64th from 5000)
Rather like the Twin Piers race in January, it seemed almost impossible that this race would go ahead when I looked out of my window at 17cm of snow on Saturday morning. But, Wilmslow was completely snow-free, although I wouldn't care to guess what the windchill factor was. With 20mph easterlies forecast, it was obvious that a PB was not on the cards, but I felt fairly good initially. However, even going through 10k in 36:30 or so wasn't entirely comfortable and I had the wind at my back for most of this! In short, I'm not sure I had the legs to run my target time today whatever the weather. I went through 10 miles a minute slower than I'd done in Wrexham (59:40) and only then did we face the worst of the weather: a devastating freezing headwind that made life very hard on the surprisingly hilly run in. I lost a lot of time here, didn't enjoy myself very much, and just scraped sub 80m in the end. All a bit unfortunate, as I was hoping for sub 77m at worst, but at least it made for a long run on a very well organised rural circuit which, strangely, I've never done before (although this was possibly my 40th half marathon). Extended the run (and day) by parking car and family in town, then driving for a curry in Manchester!

Vale of Clwyd 10k

Race: Vale of Clwyd 10k
Time/Position: 36:03 (1st from 149)
As this race starts just a couple of miles from where I went to school, I'd been quite keen to do it since it was launched last year. It is indeed a lovely circuit round hilly rural lanes above the Vale, but the day ended up being memorable for reasons other than the view. I won the race overall, but it was all slightly unfortunate and very much 'by default' as lead runner Gary Norgrove took a wrong turning in Llangynhafal. The race starts from Llandyrnog, and a group of four or five of us set off ahead of the rest of the field. I gradually worked my way into second place on the very long but fairly gradual climb up to Llangynhafal and had a comfortable gap on third by the time we turned right towards the village. I could see the leader up ahead, although he also had a big gap on me by the time we approached Llangynhafal over a series of short hills. The route to this point is quite tough, with a lot of climbing, and I was looking forward to opening up on the descent when I passed the water station near the Goldie to suddenly find myself right behind the lead vehicle at the front of the race. This was puzzling initially, but I began to suspect Gary may have gone wrong when I failed to see him in front, even on the long straights. I still didn't fully realise what had happened though, and had a big (1 min+) gap on the next runner, so didn't need to push it too much on the excellent fast descent back to Llandyrnog. A couple of sharp climbs led back to the village where I got the full story on what had happened and we tried to work out a fair solution. Nice event, though, and far more attractive than the average 10k.

Erddig Orienteering

Race: Erddig Orienteering (Light Green, 3.2k)
Time/Position: 39:37 (20th from 39)
A steep learning curve! This was the second time I'd taken M along to Scouts Orienteering, and he didn't want me to shadow him today, so I thought I'd take the opportunity to have a bash at short course orienteering for the first time. I selected the Light Green ('Improvers') course, thinking it would be a gentle jog in advance of tomorrow's important 10k in the Vale of Clwyd: lovely sunny weather throughout and a nice, interesting field of play in the varied terrain of the Erddig estate. Whilst it wasn't physically demanding, I hadn't anticipated quite how different this form of short course orienteering is in comparison to more familiar mountain marathons and the style of navigation with which I am familiar. Here, bearings are largely irrelevant: it is all to do with map orientation and micro navigation. Although I knew that in theory, I was still taken aback by the technical difficulty of locating the checkpoints in the middle of thick forest, gullies and the like. Two controls were particularly difficult for me, as I hadn't properly concentrated after leaving the previous position, and I took an embarrassing amount of time to complete the course. But it was all very enjoyable and I am keen for more. M seemed to enjoy himself too, as he ambled round - finding time to take some film footage - to complete the yellow course in an hour.

Longer run

Yet another year in which I find it difficult to fit the marathon training around other, shorter races. As a a result, I really had to seize the opportunity for a longer one today, so left the house just after 7am for a reversal of one of my standard 20 milers (almost!). The reason for the reversal was an icy easterly, which I had no wish to run into from Queensferry to Handbridge! So I ran HK-Bretton-Saltney-Chester, then got on the Dee path and ran with a tailwind in snow showers all the way to the blue bridge in Queensferry. This is always psychologically demanding, but at least the snow was a novelty today - as was a tidal bore that charged down the Dee as I passed Saltney Ferry. The final leg up the hill to Hawarden and back was challenging, but in general I was very surprised to feel quite good throughout the run.

Marsh Tracks 5k

Race: Marsh Tracks 5k (Rhyl)
Time/Position: 17:11 (7th from 49 [3rd V40])
My slowest 5k for several years, although I felt reasonably good throughout the race and was quite surprised when I saw the time. The course is flat, with a superb smooth surface - very like Ty Croes last month, although this is actually a road cycling circuit in the wilds of West Rhyl - so no excuses can be found there. However, there was a sharp headwind which affected half of the 1k+ loop, so therein perhaps lies the explanation. Still, it was a good workout under floodlights and combined very well with a family visit to St Asaph with M.

Brecon Beacons run

This was supposed to be the Tour of Torpantau fell race, but it turned into a ramble around the Brecon Beacons as a result of a schoolboy error I may never live down! I was in two minds about the long journey, but the promise of cold weather and low cloud encouraged me to join Richie and John for the long drive to the southern side of the Brecon Beacons because I tend to do better in those circumstances. It was obvious that the navigation would be challenging, which is something I usually relish, so I put map and compass in front pocket as a precuation. However, as we emerged from the very steep climb to the plateau and entered the mist, I found myself immediately behind two Mynydd Du runners. As this is the local club, I assumed they knew the shortcuts and just followed: a classic error, but not all that surprising given the pace we were going at. I began to get uneasy after 5 mins or so, got the compass out and saw to my horror that we were heading east. I voiced my concern, but nobody around me seemed particularly interested so I assumed they were taking a further shortcut. But we just continued further and further east - well away from Cribyn and the checkpoints. By now, it was too late, and the featureless, frozen moorland didn't allow for reorientation - and me and a couple of others helped a group of 10 evacuate the hill by heading south on a direct bearing until we were above the final checkpoint.

Snowdon winter climbing

Crag/Peak: Clogwyn y Garnedd/Yr Wyddfa
Routes: Right-Hand Trinity (wIII 3,3,2,2:led p.1,3), End Gully (wI/II:des)
This had to be squeezed into a few hours before work: not an easy task, as Clogwyn y Garnedd is one of the longest walk-ins in Wales and I wasn't especially fresh after a 17 mile run yesterday. But conditions, which had looked good when gazing at the Carneddau from our cold rock climbing session on Friday, seemed likely to be better still today: at least in terms of high crags dependent on consolidated snow. After a 6am start, Mick and I plodded up the Pyg track towards Snowdon, quite a lot of water ice around and, as expected, good consolidated neve above Glaslyn and a great view of the face, which always looks pseudo-Alpine in these conditions. Neither of us had done Right-Hand Trinity, although we'd both done Central and Left, so it seemed an obvious choice. It's a classic winter line, a well-defined gully, which leaves the top right-hand corner of the Spider snowfield to snake right across the face. We soloed up the tedious lower slopes to the Spider, enjoying steeper ice on the left where possible, then continued soloing up steeper neve to the entrance to the main gully - a fairly tight slot at this point. I led the first pitch, which was excellent and absorbing, far more interesting and tricky than it looks from below. The gully went up to a short, turfy wall which was quite thin and surprisingly technical. I moved up right on the turf, then swung back left above a wide crack. An easier section then led to excellent steeper climbing on perfect neve as the gully tightens again to a narrow slot. Above, easier ground and a good thread lead to a lovely sheltered cave belay as mist enveloped the face: a great 40m pitch. The cave protected me from the spindrift funnelling down the gully as Mick led up the very thin rock slab above the cave. This involved a bit of thought and some absorbing mixed climbing up iced runnels: hard in these lean conditions. Above, easy slopes led to another narrowing and more fine climbing to the belay. This gave me a long easy pitch up superb neve, before Mick led through up a variant finish: taking the steeper left hand line up perfect frozen turf to an icy finish up the mild cornice. A great route, comparable to Eastern Gully on the Ladders as a stress-free, strait-forward yet continuously interesting winter line. We ambled down the tourist path for a bit, rather windy with poor viz, but decided to vary the descent by taking End Gully to the base of the face. This is short but allows more advantage to be taken of the good neve: nice downclimbing, then a short traverse to a steeper section, before contouring round to the bottom of the zigzags. A real shame we didn't have time for Cave Gully, but I had to get to work, so after a quick bite we yomped down the Pyg track back for an exceptionally early finish.

Longer run

A much-needed longer run. Although I never follow a schedule I am uncomfortably aware that I'm well behind with the marathon training, as ever, so I was pleased just to feel reasonably comfortable for this plod from HK-Bretton-Chester-Eccleston-Pulford-Dod-LK-HK. Just under two hours, 16-17 miles. We then drove up to Penbarras and had a splendid walk up a frozen Moel Famau with easily chilled bubbly on the summit to celebrate Dave's 40th.

Castle Inn climbing

Crag: Castle Inn Quarry, Llysfaen
Routes: Alone With the Moon (f5:sec), Lili Marlene (f5+:sec), Ice Cream and Candy Floss (f5:led), New Route 1 (f4:led), New Route 2 (f3:sec), Comeback Kid (f4:sec), Easypeasy (f3:down), Happy Return (f4+:led), Route 1 (f5:sec), Ffrind (f4:led), Taid (f4:sec), Nain (f4:sec), Wilderness Wall (f5:led), Butterfly Blues (f4:sec), Birthday Boy (f5:sec), Inspiration (f4:sec), Smartie (f5+:led), Appenzeller (f5+:sec)
As the temperature didn't rise above -1C all day, and we could see the snow gully lines on Carnedd Llywellyn in perfect condition from the crag, this was arguably not the most sensible choice of outing. However, time was very limited, as always - far too limited for winter climbing: so we made the most of the couple of hours we had at our disposal by concentrating on the new easy sports climbs that have been developed on the little crags surrounding the main face at Castle Inn. I've been climbing here for over 20 years now, so it's nice to see some of the pressure removed from the main crag - which is a bit battered in places now. Having said that, the other crags are very short and while that was ideal in today's subzero temperatures, the routes are not exactly classics! Mick and I moved as quickly as we could from left to right, doing all the new stuff to increase mileage. The wall at the far left  runs to nice thin cracks with some good climbing, especially my f5 lead up the right-hand crack in a snow flurry. We did two tiny routes on a rough, juggy wall, then the arete left of Indian Summer. Another isolated arete gives Happy Return, a pleasant Severe with a novelty crag top belay. After my 20th (or so!) ascent of Route 1, seconding Mick on the main crag, we continued moving right and I led the pleasantly juggy Ffrind up blocky rock with horizontal breaks, and polished off the other routes on this wall. Further right again, Wilderness Wall is one of the better additions: a nice rough slab of white limestone which gives delicate climbing, as do the other routes here: after another snow flurry we had a brief glimpse of the sun on these routes! Finally, at the far end of the crag two slightly harder routes go at 5+. After 18 climbs, I restored the circulation in my hands and drove to Cadole via St Asaph to join the crew running up Moel Famau: the first time in weeks that it's been dry underfoot, as the ground was frozen solid throughout.

Dyserth climbing

Crag: Dyserth Waterfall Crag
Routes: Suleiman the Insignificant (f5:led), Diamonds and Pearls (f5:sec), Custard Corner (f5:led), Magnificent Rita (f5:led), Windsor Wall (f6b:sec), Men of Dinorwic Slate (f5:sec), Rhubarb Wall (f6a+:sec), North Wales Guidebook Wars (f5+:sec)
Crag: Dyserth Castle Slab
Routes: Jason and the Aga Nuts (f5:led), Leo Saw us Rex (f4:sec), Tegengle (f6a:led), Purple Ladies versus Godzilla (f6a+:sec)
I've always known there was climbing to be had at Dyserth, having lived there in the past and having scratched around in various dusty quarries many years ago. However, these little crags have now been given a full sports climbing makeover and it was very pleasant indeed to spend a short sunny winter's day sampling them with Mick. It was chilly, to say the least, as we arrived at the delightfully situated Waterfall crag. The cold, combined with fatigue after yesterday's race and Mick's recent flu, curtailed our plans somewhat, so I kicked off by leading an easy line left of the crag before nipping up the slightly harder arete. Mick backed off Custard Corner so I led through: seemed a tad undergraded and not that great. The obvious steep crack taken by Magnificent Rita was far better: a nice steep VS with good, positive holds. Windsor Wall was an eliminate up crisp little edges and positive pockets to the left: nice, technical climbing but a tad overgraded perhaps. Mick led the longer groove further right, in a lovely position just above the river, as the sun finally hit the face. Nice line, as is Rhubarb Wall which breaks out to the steep hanging slab above the overhangs. Finished with the steeper arete line, then headed back to the car to drive round to Castle Slab which lies above the Prestatyn walkway: another nice position, neatly contrasting with the steeper Waterfall crag with views out to sea. Great friction and nice technical moves on these routes, which all seem a bit generously graded! A bitter easterly wind was mitigated by the sunshine and the delicate climbing was very pleasant. Tegengle, in particular, gave a satisfying longer lead of 20m or so, with a couple of short, technical sequences. More like 5+, though, as was the less appealing line to its right. Finished with a short jog to Meliden and back.

Wrexham half marathon

Race: Wrexham (Village Bakery) half marathon/North Wales Championships
Time/Position: 1:17:48 (15th from 455 [2nd V40])
There was to be no repeat of last year's drama, when some prankster decided to switch the signs at the nine mile point and thereby ruin the race for the first 40 runners. And there was no repeat of the snow-related cancellation of 2011. Instead, conditions were fairly benign today - apart, that is, from a distressing headwind from the tenth mile to the finish. After feeling reasonably comfortable at target 5:50 pace, I ended up precisely one minute slower than the time I was aiming for. Presumably, however, we were actually benefitting from a tailwind up to the 10 mile point, as I went through in 58:42, within target time and only just outside my 10 mile PB. After this I really struggled as the headwind kicked in, and the last mile was fairly unpleasant as a result: no doubt also an illustration that I hadn't trained hard enough on the longer runs. Just about managed to record a narrow PB, by half a minute, and did have the consolation of first V40 in the North Wales Championships.

Collie Classic 'time trial'

An experimental timed running of our classic Friday night route up Moel Famau in what happened to be the most awful conditions of melting slush and associated thick, cloying mud. Virtually every stride was aquatic, which made for slow progress. A few die-hards turned up for the 'just for fun' time trial, which was intended to act as a partial novelty replacement for the much missed 'dash in the dark' series, which haven't taken place this year. A few of us have already recorded times in training for the 'classic route' which heads from the Collie down the leat and up to the main Cilcain path before plumetting down the steep descent to the fields back to Loggerheads and back up to Cadole. My own pb is 58m but I was well outside this today with 61.50.

Rhug Cross Country

Race: North Wales XC Championships, Rhug (11k)
Time/Position: 43:55 (6th from 34 [2nd V40])
The going was soft to very soft at this re-scheduled championship race, some explanation perhaps for the fact that my time was over two minutes down on last year. That said, I was lucky to be competing at all as I was otherwise engaged on the original date and it was only the snow-related cancellation that made it possible for me to run. Not many others did, however, and it was a small group that set off on the shorter laps before heading out for three (or was it four?) long and hilly laps of the Rhug estate. In places, this was a real quagmire with knee deep mud, and pretty draining. By the last lap it was obvious that I lacked the strength to get up into fifth place, and I had a reasonable gap, so I eased off a little: mindful of the need to continue to push the mileage tomorrow and next week as I prepare for the longer stuff. Rhug is a great location for the championships and a nice challenge in these conditions: we (me, Jeff, Paul) managed to win first Veteran's team as well, which was a bonus.

Anglesey Border League

Race: Ty Croes 5m (Border League race 5)
Time/Position: 27:58 (12th from 202 [3rd V40])
Although this is pushing it a bit for a 'border' location, it was a cracking venue for a race and a great addition to the existing league fixtures. I don't know the first thing about motorsport, but the Ty Croes race track seemed remarkably professional, with a wonderful slick surface that might have been designed for fast running (it presumably was designed for fast driving). After the first short lap, we embarked on two longer laps of the full circuit, which were surprisingly hilly, with great views out over the sea and Llyn: a bit like those you get when climbing at Rhoscolyn. The wind wasn't too bad, just a stiff breeze really, despite the exposed position, and I concentrated on moving up between small groups where possible. I seemed to have timed the race just right, as I moved into tenth place on the final corner then began to pull away into the teeth of the wind. Or so I thought. Actually, the two lads I'd gone past suddenly sprinted back in the last 50m, and with them went the chance of a top ten finish (which I've never managed in 40 BL races!) Really enjoyed the race, though, well worth the drive out.

Idwal ice climbing

Crag: Cwm Idwal
Routes: The Ramp (wIII/II 2,3,1:led p.1,3), The Curtain (wIV 4:sec)
Despite the prolonged cold snap, the ice routes in Idwal were the only realistic option today. There's been no freeze-thaw, so the snow remains soft and unconsolidated and any designs on more unusual routes (ie. those I haven't done before) had to remain unrealised. Prevailing conditions were pretty dire, too, but it was the last opportunity to get out before a rapid thaw sets in. Mick and I left Ogwen Cottage in persistent rain and low cloud, prospects grim. A fair amount of soft snow led for slow progress up to the crag, where we found the Ramp - unusually - free of crowds. I thought it would make a good warm-up, as I haven't swung an axe in anger for almost two years (unless you count the rapid dash up Corno Nero last July). I led up the left-hand variant start, steep powder leading to good ice which took screws, then more good climbing to regain the normal route higher up. Sadly, strong winds had blown a large volume of powder on to the route - and clouds of spindrift funnelled down the gully intermittently. It made this easy route better and a little harder than when I have done it in the past, however, as it was not hacked out. Mick led the steeper second in hard conditions of driving wind and spindrift, very atmospheric, which got worse as we turned the corner. We topped out in clouds of windblown powder snow, which combined with driving falling snow to make for a challenging and unpleasant descent! Cold and wet, we retrieved the sacs, warmed up, and decided to top-rope the more technical Curtain before finishing. This takes a beautiful chandelier of ice above the Twll Du path, and was well formed with good ice build-up. With my archaic strap-on crampons and straight axes the route was at my technical limit: a steep start leads to a ledge, then a sort of ice-tube between two huge stalactites leads to the top. This section was much steeper than similarly graded ice pitches I've done in the past - the classic grade IV South Gully for instance - and I fluffed the final pull-up. Still, it made for a good workout and it certainly warmed me up. A soggy and windy walk-out led to a wet Ogwen. I then drove to Cadole via St Asaph and attempted the normal Friday run up Famau in steady snow. Drifts near the fingerpost were draining, so I adapted a different 7 mile circuit before retiring for a pint. An hour or two later, an extraordinary blizzard hit the Welsh border, but (very) luckily I was at home in front of the fire by then.

Hope Mountain Run

Thick snow falling at first light, so it seemed like a good opportunity to get out into it for a longish jog from home to the top of Waun y Llyn and along the ridge. The snow wasn't really forecast, at least not an unrelentingly heavy dump like this, but I love running in falling snow so thoroughly enjoyed the outing. As I ran up to the top of Waun y Llyn, all the trees were draped with snow, which became very deep on top. The mist was down, unsurprisingly, and I experienced near white-out conditions along the ridge - a hazardous mixture of soft snow on top of a layer of ice! It was quite hard to locate the paths under all the snow, but I managed it, and did a little traverse before heading back home via Hope. The snow fell even more heavily on my return.

Twin Piers 10k

Race: Twin Piers 10k (Llandudno-Colwyn Bay)
Time/Position: 36:35 (6th from 275 [2nd V40])
What a difference a year makes! Whereas a strong tailwind propelled me and presumably many others to PBs in 2012, this year a bitter easterly headwind made life rather uncomfortable. I ended up with a very slow time, 2.5 minutes down on last year, but finished higher up the field (6th compared to 11th last year). I always enjoy this point-to-point race, though, having done it maybe five times: and did a reasonable job of pacing it in difficult conditions. In many ways it was a miracle the event went ahead, as all of Wales was under a blanket of snow except this little green coastal fringe! I deliberately held back along the prom and up the Little Orme, before picking up a few places through the housing estate and into the worst of the headwind at Rhos prom. Kate soldiered on to finish in around an hour.

Birkenhead Border League

Race: Birkenhead Park 5.5m (Border League race 4)
Time/Position: 31:10 (14th from 295 [3rd V40])
After my unfortunate fall in race three at Christleton, my main aim this time was merely to stay upright. I quite like this four-lap course, though, as you can judge your effort quite precisely and I enjoy the twists and turns and gentle climb back to the finish. The park itself is very nice, too, the inspiration for New York's Central Park no less. I was well off the pace initially, but eked out limited energy supplies and pushed it a bit on the third lap to gain a few places. As with a few other recent races, my time and position was the same (as in, exactly the same, to the second) as it was on my last outing on this course in 2011.

Pot Hole climbing

Crag: Pot Hole Quarry
Routes: Murren (HS 4b:TR), The Watzmann (VS 4b:TR), Unaided (VS 4b:TR), Major (HVS 5a:TR), Vetta (E1 5a:TR), The Dog (HVS 5b:TR)
So very mild at present that it seemed worthwhile getting out for a couple of hours exercise to keep the climbing ticking over. Unsurprisingly, I've lost a lot of forearm strength over recent months, so this was a good reminder to do something about it! Vic and Mick were already at the crag when I arrived mid-afternoon. I've been climbing here for at least 22 years, and the routes are so horribly polished now that top-roping seems excusable. Nipped up and down a few of the VSs, and enjoyed the crisp footwork on Major before beginning to lose strength alarmingly quickly on old favourite Vetta. Lunged my way clumsily to the top before doing the same on The Dog: all a bit discouraging. Just a short run today after the full Famau run with headtorches last night. Will try for a brisk 10-11 miler tomorrow to get the holiday fortnight mileage up as close as I can to Peter's magic 100 mile target.

Llandegla biking

MTB Route: Llandegla Blue Circuit
Distance/Climb: 12k/200m
After our disastrous last attempt at this loop in October, when M suffered a major mechanical failure, I was keen to take him back at some point this holiday. Despite a bit of drizzle and a lot of mist, this was a far more successful outing. Festive treats helped M's morale on the long climb out of the woods, and he then really enjoyed the smooth singletrack descents of True Blue et al. Muddy and heavy going in place, unsurprisingly, but he seemed a little quicker than last time. After a drink in the cafe, I dropped M off at home, and picked up E for a walk up Moel Famau. More mist, but again a very pleasant outing with festive snacks on top. A brisk 10k outing later on completed an enjoyable tripartite day.

Jubilee Plunge

Race: Jubilee Plunge downhill fell race (2.2m, -1361ft)
Time/Position: 12:33 (13th from 75 [3rd V40])
Possibly unique, in that it starts at the top of Moel Famau and finishes well over a thousand feet below in Llangynhafal, this race was a lot of fun: the perfect festive event. Jez and I made it a bit longer by parking in Cilcain, running up to the ridge and along OD to the summit, then enduring the cold wind and squally showers until race originator Martin set us all off. A very strong field shot off towards the north before plummeting down towards the Vale of Clwyd to join the very steep final grassy descent of the Llangynhafal Loop race. I never descend particularly quickly, and today was no exception, but I thoroughly enjoyed the race despite this serious impediment! The field packed very tightly, with just a few seconds separating each runner, and although I gained on those ahead when the race flattens out on the fields near the village, I still didn't gain much. After a couple of excellent pints of Facers at the always convivial Golden Lion, we ran back on to the ridge in the gathering gloom of a December dusk, stumbling back to Cilcain in the dark without headtorches.

Round the Walls race

Race: Chester Round the Walls (5k)
Time/Position: 17:58 (17th from 425 [1st V40])
Another weather-related shortening of this famous and long-running (40+ years) local event. But, unlike two years ago, at least the walls themselves were included today: it was the waterlogged Roodee that had to be cut out. It all made for a very efficient outing, driving across from St Asaph in the morning, cutting it fine to do the race, leaving the whole afternoon for eating and drinking. The race itself was really enjoyable, round the back of the Roodee, along the Dee path, before getting on to the Walls at Lower Bridge Street. Pace obviously high from the off, so I tried to keep pace with Adair and a few others past the Clock Tower and Cathedral. I made up a bit of ground on the gentle climb up the narrowest section of the walls to Northgate, then took a couple of runners just after the final steep steps back to the racecourse. The race attracts runners from all over the country, so I was surprised (and fortunate) to find that I was first V40 when the results came out.

Aran loop

Peaks: Aran Benllyn, Erw y Ddafad Ddu, Aran Fawddwy, Drosgl
A very enjoyable Christmas Eve outing for Peter and I, despite the fact that our designs on a midwinter Rhinog traverse were thwarted by bad weather. We left Llanuwchllyn early morning, in rather grim conditions of low cloud and drizzle. But the conditions didn't get any worse, and we jogged slowly up to the top of the first rise before entering the always boggy gentler sections on the lower ridge. This is wet in mid-summer, so today was obviously a tad squelchy after weeks of near-constant rain. Neither of us felt especially good, so we maintained a very gentle pace to the top of the steep climb towards Benllyn. This peak is avoided by the race route, so we stuck to the top of the ridge today, taking in a misty Benllyn, then the broad summit of Ddafad Ddu before enjoying the rocky terrain up to the trig on Fawddwy. A quick bite of cake, then we continued down the ridge before breaking off to the east for superb running along to Drosgl. Poor viz throughout, but good fun. There followed a slightly illicit traverse under the eastern crags of the Aran ridge, with a climb up from Llaethnant to lonely Creiglyn Dyfi, one of Snowdonia's finest lakes, before another short and boggy climb through a little col to gain a superb descent down Cwm Llwydd and Cwm Croes to Talardd and the road to Llanuwchllyn. Perhaps 14-15 miles, around three hours of gentle running, so we even managed a pint in the Eagles before midday.

London run

I always enjoy the opportunity to take in a bit of urban running when staying in Chingford, so set myself a target of seeing how far I could get in 35 mins: by way of half marathon training. It's always a very interesting run, through multi-ethnic Walthamstow and down to Leyton. I got to Leyton tube station before turning around to run back: 10-11 miles at a decent pace.

Llanberis slate climbing

Crag: Llanberis Slate
Routes: First Stop (f5:led), Septuagenarian (f6a:sec), Jagged Face (f4:led), Big Easy (f4:sec)
Tim back in the country for the first time in a few years, so a good opportunity to do a route or two with my original climbing partner! We had no real plans, very little gear, and only a few hours at our disposal. But the day turned out to be a tiny sunny weather window in a wet week, so we abandoned plans for a short walk in Idwal and headed to Bus Stop to do a few short climbs together. Very nice to climb together again for the first time in well over a decade, especially as the sun came out on the overgraded 6a. We followed up with a walk to Twll Mawr, then a limping 10k fartlek session, as my wounds from Sunday's unfortunate and painful fall in the Border League start to heal.

Anglesey run

Arrived back from Singapore yesterday, and left for a family weekend in Henllys after just a few hours at home, so I was still a little jet-lagged when I set off on my favourite circuit in the dark at 7am. A woodcock enlivened the long climb over to Sling, the misty dank conditions a considerable contrast to my last run on Thursday along a sunny and spectacular Singapore waterfront in temperatures of 32C! Through Llanddona then up to the superb minor road above the sea towards Glan yr Afon and Llanfaes. Most of the snow stripped from Eryri, although the forecast for next week looks favourable for winter climbing (no chance of me getting out though!).

Singapore run

A misguided plan to take the MRT out to the Botanic Gardens, then run back to my hotel whilst doing a spot of birdwatching. After a day at a conference, I still had my work shirt on, so was already looking eccentric in formal shirt, shorts and running shoes: carrying a large rucsac completed the look. On emerging from the station, a low rumble of thunder signalled the start of another tropical storm. Terrible timing, as the day had been dry up to that point. So the views of racket-tailed drongo, whistling duck, kingfishers et al were swiftly curtailed. I sprinted through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, pausing occasionally to admire the huge palms, tembusu and mahogany trees, but generally just keeping moving through the heavy rain. I emerged at the Tanglin gate and continued the run, by now soaked to the skin, trying to find Orchard Road. Once there, I realised it really was the Singapore equivalent of Oxford Street, and must have made an arresting sight: completely soaked with rain water and sweat, running fast, wearing mismatched clothes. Eventually the embarrassment became acute so I made a detour down side roads, eventually getting lost and resorting to the MRT dripping water over the immaculate floors and attracting the attention of the security staff.

Famau run

Just failed to break the hour on this headtorch run with Peter. I was quite keen to get a decent run in, with the prospect of a 15 hour flight to Singapore via Qatar tomorrow - and the likelihood of dramatically reduced mileage in the tropics next week! It was very muddy underfoot tonight, with thick mist making life even more difficult around the top (amazing how hard it is to locate the descent path at night in the mist, despite covering the ground thousands of times before in all conditions). Just over 62 mins for the circuit.

Wrexham Cross Country

Race: Wrexham XC (North Wales Cross Country League race 3)
Time/Position: 32:42 (25th from 146)
Having missed the first two XC league events this season, the only reason to do this was to help the team and take advantage of the proximity. It was a pedestrian performance over this flat course, although at least I kept to a reasonably consistent pace and made up a little ground on the final fourth lap. Yet again, my time was more or less the same as the last time I did this race two years ago, although it was a bit muddier today. Indeed, cold and persistent rain fell throughout the race.

Allt Fawr hillwalk

It's becoming increasingly difficult to persuade the children to do any walking at all, so I settled on this little outing from the top of Sychnant after a night in Conwy and a morning jog along Marine Walk and through Bodlondeb. Maximum scenic reward for minimum effort, although milky white cloud replaced the crystal clear morning sunshine as we made our way to the top. A nice picnic gazing out over Anglesey, then we completed a little circuit by descending to the lake and back on the North Wales coast path. Being optimistic, this may have reignited E's enthusiasm for the hills.

Penmaenmawr fell race

Race: Penmaenmawr fell race (10.5m/2000ft)
Time/Position: 1:22:16 (10th from 194 [4th V40])
Heavy rain overnight cleared to leave a beautiful autumnal morning: the northern Carneddau was at its scenic best. Kate dropped New Jersey guest star John and I at the top of Sychnant and we jogged down to Dwygyfylchi so I could show him the start of the route. One of my favourite races, and areas: this was my sixth time in the event, I think. I always flatter myself that I know the hills above Conwy quite well, so it was very frustrating to continually take bad racing lines throughout today's race! It is always run 'in reverse' now, and I find the best lines a bit hard to find this way round. The initial long gradual climb to the top of the quarry went quite well, with superb sea views towards Anglesey and cloud peeling gradually away from the higher Carneddau summits. Boggy underfoot, but I managed to make up some ground initially across the main bog to Bwlch y Ddaefaen, then really enjoyed the fast road running down to Cae Coch and the home leg. I then made a crucial tactical error. Jez's group of four were out of sight, well ahead, and I was with a second group of six of seven runners. Feeling reasonably strong, I went ahead on the first hill after Cae Coch, fifth or sixth at this point, but then stupidly followed the wall. Within minutes, I spied the group behind ploughing up the main path 200m further left. I was left with an exhausting haul over tussocks to regain the group, by which time they'd gained a few hundred metres on me. I tried to make up the gap during the final section: my favourite part of the race, scenically, through the little valley to the fords and down past little Llyn y Wrach to the steep donkey track. But I couldn't catch them, and lost another place before the finish. Ended up slightly frustrated, finishing in more or less the same time as I recorded two years ago: all very enjoyable though, as ever, and after excellent free beer and soup John and I extended the mileage by running back over Sychnant to Conwy.

Capenhurst Border League

Race: Capenhurst 5.5m (Border League race 2)

Time/Position: 31:07 (17th from 356 [3rd V40])

Having not got back from Belfast until late last night, and still rather tired from the intensity of yesterday's race, I wasn't especially optimistic for the second BL race of the season. I started quite steadily and cautiously, as a result of my tired legs, and was very surprised to find that I felt reasonably strong on the second lap. Indeed, I felt better than I have for months - it seems an age since I moved through the field in a race rather than merely hanging on for dear life. I've raced around these roads many times before, so know every twist and turn, and was particularly keen not to get into a sprint finish that I knew I would lose! I managed to pull out a reasonable gap and just concentrated on holding my place for a respectable finishing position. 

British and Irish Masters Cross Country International

Race: GB/Ireland Masters XC Championships, Belfast (8k)
Time/Position: 29:21 (77th from 85)
It was a pleasant surprise, and a real honour, to be selected to represent Wales for the first time - albeit in a style of event that I rarely do. The race itself was inevitably a steep learning curve: despite doing around 300 races in 15 years of running, I have never experienced anything like this level of consistent, super-intense competition throughout the field. The calibre of all the athletes was incredible, as the race was closed to all but the international teams, although at least I was fully prepared for this! I was obviously keen to put in a decent performance, so was a little distressed to find my cold worsening again after last week's Abergele 5. By the time I flew out to Belfast last night, however, my sinuses were clearing and I felt reasonably good when we caught the bus from the city centre to the race. The championships were scheduled to be held at Stormont, which I was looking forward to visiting, but the circuit was sadly waterlogged so it was switched to the Queens University playing fields on the outskirts of Belfast. I was in a 6-strong Welsh team competing in the 40-45 category along with the 35-40/45-50s in the final, fastest four lap 8k race. The course had been badly cut up by the earlier races, and was very muddy and heavy going in places, but generally relatively flat by XC standards. The pace was extremely high from the start, although I managed to hold my own for the first three 2km laps. I concentrated on keeping clear of a big 10-12 strong group of Scottish and Irish runners, initially felt I could sustain the pace, and was quite pleased to be running strongly at first. But the sheer unrelenting speed started to cause me problems as I ploughed through the mud at the end of the third lap. With around 1km to go I began to blow, and slowed. Within seconds the big group that I'd been clear of caught up, then swept past: an indication of the ruthless intensity of the competition, and all rather gutting after the first three laps. A Welsh team-mate then went past right on the line. I was reasonably pleased with my time, given the muddy 5 mile course, but was obviously disappointed not to have put in a better performance to finish higher up the field.

Abergele 5m

Race: Abergele 5m/North Wales 5m Championships
Time/Position: 28:51 (11th from 217 [2nd V40])
My cold got far worse over the course of the week, so I was on full medication for this race. As such, I was pleasantly surprised to record exactly the same time as last year. I didn't particularly enjoy the experience, however, struggling a little bit on the gradual climb up to St George's and just about maintaining some kind of pace on the steep final hill. The finish is good and fast, however, and the conditions were rather like last year: cold, crisp and sunny. Eric stormed past me in the last 200m and I couldn't respond: indeed, the entire field seemed smaller but stronger than last year, as I failed to retain the category title, and my cold got far worse after I finished and the medication wore off! That said, this was a welcome confidence boost in advance of the International XC Championships next week, especially after last week's disaster on the OMM and the sluggish BL opening before that.

OMM Howgills

Peaks: Arant How, Breaks Head, West Fell, Green Bell, Wild Boar Fell, Swarth Fell

An ill-fated attempt at the OMM elite in perfect weather conditions. After my slowest 10k time for 5 years, I'd been feeling sluggish all week with a developing cold, but still wasn't fully prepared for quite how bad I felt within 30 minutes of starting day one. This was a serious problem, as the weather was good (although desperately cold, following a night of -3c spent in the back of Mick's car in Sedbergh), and Mick was fully prepared for the big two days in the hills. However, the scale of the Elite course is such that you need 100% fitness and commitment to have any chance of success. We contoured round a gap between two hills to pick up the second checkpoint at the top of the steep valley below Brant Fell. Superb views as the sun rose and lit the frosty northern slopes of the hills. I began to struggle immediately on the very steep climb west towards Arant How, although perked up for the run down to CP3 in a hidden re-entrant. Then came a massive 8k leg, for which I picked a decent route contouring the western valleys to pick up the big stream valley coming down from Breaks Head. We finally crested this at the obvious col SE of the summit, ending up in terrain familiar from the 2009 Rab. Good sunny running down the ridge, really good, led to more contouring and CP4, after which we ran up Langdale for another sadistic leg involving two huge climbs over West Fell to Bowderdale, then over another ridge to Weasdale before dibbing CP5 below the summit of Green Bell. I was now really suffering, and very unsure about what to do. A series of easy checkpoints lef across the road to leave the Howgills and enter the very different limestone terrain to the east. After finding a rather technical CP5, hidden in a small valley alongside many other valleys, we realised we were actually doing quite well. My route planning early on combined with Mick's excellent micro-navigation to land us bang-on every control with maximum efficiency. But I could not sort my legs and lungs out, as I felt myself enveloped by my cold. The boggy climb up Wild Boar Fell was a desperate struggle as a result. My feet had now had five hours of icing and were completely numb, which didn't help - neither did the fact that the checkpoint involved a scramble down the steep east slope from the summit followed by a trog through a Maritime Alps style boulder field to gain an obvious small lake. I felt like I was damaging myself now, and was also mindful of the fact that I'd be running for Wales in two weeks time, so called it a day on Swarth Fell. I was gutted for Mick, but he understood and had already realised that I wasn't myself. Having been let down by a partner retirement myself in 2007, however, I knew what it felt like. So we trudged back west to the overnight camp before embarking on the ultimate walk of shame, 12k or so back to the car at Sedbergh, ironically increasing our mileage for the day to well over 42k.

Caernarfon Border League

Race: Caernarfon 10k (Border League race 1) 
Time/Position: 36:40 (18th from 256 [4th V40])
A mystifying 40 seconds slower than the Welsh Championship race round the same course six weeks ago, which was itself my slowest 10k for three years. No excuses either, because unlike many of the other runners I didn't do the cross-country race at Colwyn Bay yesterday. Moreover, I've had a few formal intervals sessions in recent weeks, whereas I was just coming off a summer in the hills at the Championships: so it's all rather puzzling, almost 2.5 minutes slower than my best 10k time this year. I started off a little too fast today, perhaps, going through 5k in 17:26, unlike the Champs when was a lot more conservative. I pushed the first hill a bit today, and was in 11th place at this point. But I began to struggle at 6k, losing time and places - this got worse on the last climb at 8k and several runners charged past.

Llandegla biking

MTB Route: Llandegla Blue Circuit
Distance/Climb: 12k/200m
Finally managed to persuade M to have another go on his mountain bike this morning, although it turned in to a minor disaster just as we were enjoying the singletrack. The place was rammed, bafflingly so, and M struggled again on the long gentle climb. I had to push his bike on several occasions. A few whoops indicated he was enjoying the first downhill of the True Blue section, however - but after a few minutes I stopped to watch him on a steep berm. He didn't arrive, and I saw him 200m away with a completely wrecked rear derailleur - the same problem that affected his bike in May. This was a problem, as we were a long way from the car. The volume of riders made it quite dangerous to walk down the track, so I took M for a diversion down the fireroads from Shotton View, managing to find a few short cuts from past knowledge.

UK fell race relay championships

Race: Fell race relays, Shropshire (leg 3-navigation)
Time/Position: 1:13:34 (45th from 155)
Our first appearance in the relays since they came to Llangynhafal in 2008. This year, its Shropshire location meant it became feasible for our small club again and we managed to get six runners together initially. However, we lost two key men to injury last week, so we had to desperately cast around for replacements at the eleventh hour, just managing to gather six runners together on Friday evening. So a somewhat weaker team finally made the startline in Church Stretton, a delightful location on a delightful day: frosty, very clear, very sunny. Simon got us off to a good start, before John and Dawn put in a strong performance on the tough second leg - which echoed parts of the classic Long Mynd Valleys race that I last did three or four years ago. We'd just entered the 'holding pen' when they arrived, and it was time for Jeff and I to set off on the navigation leg. This replicates Mountain Marathon style navigation - in that it contains relatively long macro legs. However, the course was well set out and there were fewer crocodiles of runners, and more route choice, than I'd expected. We set off up a steep climb with a good path to the obvious col between Yearlet and Ashlet. I picked up a trod and we contoured SW to a very steep direct descent to the lovely steep-sided Ashes Hollow, which I remembered well from the Long Mynd Valleys race. Up this to the first checkpoint, gaining a few places, then I was surprised to see 20+ runners ploughing up the steep direct route to CP2. I resisted the urge to follow, opting for the northern continuation of the valley then striking NW up a tiny side valley in a direct line towards the checkpoint. Looking behind me, I saw that I was being followed by another 20+ runners! We crested the boggy plateau of Pole Bank/Long Mynd and had clearly made a decent decision as we were now ahead of several of the teams who'd gone direct. From the summit at Pole Bank, superb fast running along the Mynd to a well-hidden third checkpoint in the upper reaches of Carding Mill valley, before a steep climb up another spur led to more decision-making. I went direct to the south across awkward heather, with Jeff slowing slightly, and went a tad too far east before righting myself to pick up CP4 below Yearlet. The run-in was absolutely superb, taking an obvious exposed contour line along a narrow path poised above the valley before dibbing the fifth CP on top of the small hill above Devils Mouth. Fantastic running down to the finish, with wonderful clear, sunny views over to Caer Caradog and the Lawley - reminding me of the Skyline race and the Cardington Cracker which both take in these hills. Jeff struggled a tiny bit on the steepest descents and climbs, although in general he did really well considering this was all fairly new for him. The final run-in took in some lovely woodland before the steep and atmospheric final descent to the crowds at the finish. An excellent and enjoyable outing, with the team just about squeezing into the top half of the results.

Clwydian run

Rather tired this week after the Manx, but wanted to keep the mileage quite high in preparation for the OMM. The full Famau run last night, along with a longish run with John B on Wednesday and other shorter runs and rides meant I'd avoided a rest day since the Manx. I had some time spare this afternoon, so left Cadole for the Leat path then up to the bridleway before dropping down to Cilcain and following the Excalibur route over to the base of Moel Arthur: a repeat of the run I did last month. An extended route up the front, then down to OD and along to Dywyll. After Dywyll, I began to bonk slightly (having not had a proper lunch after covering an open day this morning), then the energy supplies really crashed below the top of Famau. Gentle jogging until I recovered to drop back down via a few extensions back to the Collie.

Manx Mountain Marathon

Race: Manx Mountain Marathon (50k/8500ft/AL)
Peaks: North Barrule, Clagh Ouyr, Snaefell, Beinn y Phott, Carraghan, Colden, Lhargee Ruy, Slieau Ruy, Greeba Mountain, Slieau Whallian, South Barrule, Cronk ny Arrey Laa, Lhiattee ny Beinnee, Bradda Hill
Time/Position: 6:19:44 (11th from 85)
There are not many things more appealing or satisfying than a long race across the spine of an island, taking in virtually every peak. This is a classic and long-established event: a genuine fell race rather than some ego exercise for yuppies. I've wanted to do it for years, but was always thwarted by the Easter start. So a change of dates this year offered a great opportunity to give it a go. I knew I didn't have the legs or recent mileage to properly race it over this distance, but I did think the climbing should be OK given the Alpine/Scottish days I've had this year, as long as I took it all very slowly! We (Dave, Jez and myself) arrived from Liverpool on Friday, then had an unpleasant alarm call at 5.15am to catch the bus from Douglas to Ramsey. A superb sunrise over the Irish Sea as we jogged along Ramsey prom: an amazing weather window in a diabolical week with widespread flooding, my 2012 weather luck holding yet again. That said, after the climb through the forest and up through very boggy moorland to the steep summit cone of North Barrule, the wind picked up and made life rather unpleasant. Not a direct headwind, perhaps, but enough to make progress pretty difficult along the fine ridge. Through watery eyes, there was a great impression of being on an island: sea on both sides of the ridge and excellent though cold and boggy running along the crest to Clagh Ouyr. This was the windiest spot on the route, and it was a battle just to stamp the checkpoint on the summit. From here, a fast descent led to the Black Hut on the TT route and a steep climb up Snaefell. By now, I was well behind the leading runners and some way ahead of those behind, so route finding became an issue, particularly as a little mist was playing around the summit of Snaefell. I took an ultra cautious bearing before enjoying the superb fast descent down to Bungalow and Brandywell. A short climb up Beinn y Phott, some food, and prospects were looking good. Gentle jogging, just enjoying the unfolding and ever-changing scenery as we gradually headed south over Carraghan before an awkward and tussocky descent led to the beautiful glen at Injebreck. Wonderful warm sunshine as we crossed a little river, then a tough, heathery and lengthy climb up Colden: one of the race's toughest sections. The ridge over Lhargee Ruy and Slieau Ruy was boggy and windy, but went well to a long descent down to the very pretty, pastoral and sun-drenched valley of the Greeba. A level bridleway led to St John's, the half way point. The stiff climb up Slieau Whallian was another crux: I was completely alone for the steep haul through conifers to gain pleasant open hillside and the start of excellent seaviews towards to western coast, which got better from the very boggy and long climb up South Barrule. The final section, from the Round Table to the coastal path, was the finest of all. A wonderful scenic contrast with the mountainous early sections. Classic Celtic coastal scenery, still very hilly indeed as we climbed over Arrey Laa. Indeed, my favourite part of the entire race was the 'bonus' hill, new for this year: Lliattee ny Beinnee, particularly as I got my second wind here. The path skirted the cliff edge, with brilliant exposed views over the sea at Eairnyerey and a terrific fast descent down to the lovely little cove of Fleshwick Bay. One more steep climb up Bradda Hill, tiring now, before the delicious final grassy descent to Bradda Head and the welcome site of the finish at Port Erin. Jez was already there, so we retired to the Falcon's Nest for some fine Manx ale, sunny sea views, and a good feed, before meeting Dave a little later that afternoon.

Barrel run

'Race': Colomendy Barrel Run
Time: 14:54
An informal novelty event organised by John M from the Collie, involving a deep river crossing, the painful transportation of an awkward beer barrel and some appalling smelling running clothes. After a rather long (7 mile!) warm-up out towards Rhydymwyn, I acted as guinea pig for the race proper as I had to get home early. The route was a lot of fun, down towards the steps from the pub, across the Alyn (fairly deep after lots of rain) before picking up the beer barrel at Loggerheads. John had helpfully left the stopper out, so ancient vinegary beer trickled down my ear and into my remaining hair as I hoisted it on to my shoulders. The smell was quite repulsive, so I rapidly shifted tactics and held the barrel in front of me for the rather public run up the main road to Cadole and the pub!

Ala Archa walk, Kyrgyzstan

A whistlestop research trip to the Central Asian country of Kyrgyzstan, which just happens to be characterised by superb mountain scenery. After an early morning arrival at Manas airport, I made my way to the rooftop restaurant of the hotel to stunning views of the Ala Too range which tower above the capital Bishkek. Although I had little time at my disposal for leisure, I soon arranged for a taxi to take me up to the Ala Archa valley, which is well known as the most accessible way of penetrating the mountains from Bishkek. Sure enough, in around an hour we arrived at the roadhead in a superb valley. The Ala Too is essentially a subsidiary range to the legendary Tien Shan 'celestial' mountains which rise to 7,400m at Pik Pobedy on the Kyrgyz/Chinese border. Here, the mountains were a lot lower, at around 5000m, but the superb crystal clear weather still allowed for some cracking views up to Korona and Free Korea peak from our highpoint near the roadhead. It was, naturally, very frustrating to be unable to get onto the peaks properly - but I was just glad to have had the opportunity to get up here. My young driver, Joldosh, had perfect English having spent a year working at Pret a Manger in Kensington! He'd brought his partner along for the ride, so we all had a delightful walk down through the juniper woods (after which Ala Archa is named), to the glacial Ala Archa river which was a remarkable light blue colour at this point. The trees were just beginning to turn to autumnal shades and the weather was wonderful. It was 30C+ in Bishkek, but here light breezes and the altitude rendered it delightfully comfortable, with deep blue skies and crystal clear views. Walked up and down the valley for a while, realising with some frustration that it would have been relatively simple to have nipped up one of the lower peaks in a day, particularly as the conditions were so good.

Tremadog climbing

Crag: Upper Tier, Tremadog
Routes: Falling Block Crack (S 4a:led), MTN (S 4a:led), Mistook (VS 4c:sec), Madog (VS 4c:sec), Quatre Fois Direct (VS 4c:sec)
With a long flight to Kyrgyzstan tomorrow, and a distinct lack of climbing all year, my heart wasn't really in it today. We only had the morning at our disposal, and I wanted some relaxed leading to try to get back into the swing of things, so we headed to the Upper Tier near Pant Ifan. In my many trips to Tremadog, I have never bothered with it before as it seems such a poor relation to the bigger classics on the main crags. However, it is a lovely spot giving better views than the other crags - along with a much longer (but scenic) walk-in. Groups can be a problem, but we had it to ourselves. More rain as I led the obvious line of Falling Block Crack which takes a juggy wall to a wide crack with one tricky move. MTN gave more relaxed climbing, which was just what I needed. A slabby crack to a ledge before a thin final crack up a second wall led to a mantel finish. Mistook is quite technical at the start, up twin cracks, then finishes up a slabby wall. All these routes are longer than I'd expected, 25-28m, and they pack quite a lot of climbing in: good pitches. Madog took a wet wall on Moelwyn style bubbly rock before taking a right-leaning crack - excellent jamming - to the top. Vic's final lead was the best, another gently technical thin crack before a superb finish up the harder right-hand finishing crack taken by neighbouring route Meirionydd.

Bwlch y Moch climbing

Crag: Craig Bwlch y Moch, Tremadog
Routes: Kestrel Cracks (VS 4c:sec)
Over a year since my last trip to Tremadog and the weather this evening was exactly the same as it was then. The usual pattern is to head here for good weather, but drizzle turned to steady rain as I arrived at Eric's. We had very little time, so Vic suggested heading up to Kestrel Cracks, which I've done before and know stays reasonably dry. As I've done very little climbing this year, I seconded him up the steep but juggy groove which leads to a strenuous back-and-foot move over the little bulge at the top. It was all fairly dry, but steady rain at the stance made the second pitch an unappealing prospect. It's not as good anyway, so we abbed off and retired to the Ship in Portmadog for refreshments.

Clwydian run

An attempt at a longer run to increase the mileage before the forthcoming Manx Mountain Marathon and OMM elite. Not very successful, yet again, and I felt sluggish throughout. Left Cadole for the Leat path then up to the bridleway before dropping down to Cilcain and following the Excalibur route over to the base of Moel Arthur. An extended route over and round the summit, then along OD to Dywyll and Famau before dropping back down via a few extensions back to Cadole. No more than 17 miles, so not a good confidence boost.

Moel Wnion fell race

Race: Ras Moel Wnion (British Championships)
Time/Position: 45:47 (41st from 98)
Perhaps the strongest field I've ever competed in, after 260 or so races. I remember doing some British Championship races many years ago, but I think this was probably more competitive as it was the final race of the season. It was also a Welsh Champs counter, and unfortunately I had to do it because of my disastrous error at Mynydd Troed in April - which rendered my score effectively null and void. The start today, from the fields above Aber, was relentless - going up the track to the west of the Foel Fras race descent. Quite demoralising as I found myself well down the field, feeling very rough, to make matters worse! I struggled all the way up the climb, suffering in the heat (a sunny and hot day for once) and not going at all well. The plateau at the top was a little better, and the usual tremendous sea views enlivened the return trip, as did the views of the Carneddau. Predictably, however, I lost even more places on a very sluggish descent and recorded my lowest finishing position for at least six years, barely squeezing into the top half of the field. I remember doing the old Moel Wnion race in 2007, but that went up from Rachub and included a cracking descent which took in Moel Faban.

Caernarfon 10k

Race: Caernarfon 10k (Welsh 10k Championships)
Time/Position: 36:00 (14th from 201 [2nd V40])
Although this was my slowest 10k for almost three years, I was quite pleased with the performance having been selected to run for North Wales again this year. As with my last appearance in Cardiff 2010, the timing of the Welsh 10k Championships presents a bit of a conundrum: after a summer racing and climbing in the mountains, how do you convert effectively to road without doing any proper speed work? I haven't worked out a solution, so this went as well as could be expected. I felt far more comfortable than at Capenhurst last week: after a quickish first km (3:18) I got into a small coherent group and we plodded along the seafront around 30m behind the tight lead group. Worked a bit with Jez into a light headwind, but (knowing the course well from the border league) I was concentrating on saving energy for the tough second half. After a sharp hill I hit the 5k point at 18:00, the slow pace some reassurance that I wouldn't blow on the second half. In the event, I kept exactly the same pace going over all the hills, and passed a couple of runners on the final sharp climb after 8k. Shame there were no other regional teams present, as our North Wales Veterans team put in a decent performance. We ended up winning the gold medal by default, and I came away with category silver in the Welsh and North Wales Championships.