Sella climbing

Crag: Sella, Costa Blanca, Spain
Routes: Cartugal (f5+:led), Deja Vu (f5:sec), Marion (f5+,4+,5:led p.1), Mister Pi Direct (f6a+:sec), Martxa d'aci (f6a:led)
A famous venue indeed, which seemed a logical choice for the first day of our brief cragging trip to the Costa Blanca. A shakedown day was inevitable, as I haven't climbed outside since last summer. Although I have done a lot of general mountaineering in Spain - in the Pyrenees, Picos de Europa and Sierra Nevada - I haven't done much pure rock climbing in the country. But while I had anticipated quality routes, I wasn't fully prepared for the sheer beauty of the terrain just a few miles inland from the urbanised coast. Sella was no exception, and after breakfast in Finestrat we drove up the enchanting valley to find this most famous of crags completely deserted. The weather had cleared after several days of rain, and we had hit the jackpot after a cold night in our log cabin in the hills below the Puig Campana: stunning clarity of light, crystal clear far-reaching cloudless views, and warm sunshine. I kicked off with a lead of the three-star Cartugal: a delightful, if rather polished, 5+ on the popular Sector Marion. This was a good choice, and seemed to indicate that my 2015 plan to train a little bit and climb indoors for the first time in a quarter of a century of climbing had paid off. It was a bit battered, but gave thought provoking and quite delicate climbing on pockets with shuffles left and right: a satisfying lead, very comfortable. After seconding Vic up the slightly easier Deja Vu, we then decided we should take advantage of the emptiness to bag the classic Marion. This is the best known route here: a longer three-pitch affair which takes the obvious arete and is very photogenic. It is a popular route, notoriously polished, so I was unsurprised to be faced with an off-balance boulder-problem start despite the lowly grade. After the first steep blocky moves, easier climbing leads to an awkward belay with lovely views over the valley. Just great to be out here with the sun on our backs. Dave then led the very long middle pitch - gentle but sustained and absorbing climbing in an increasingly exposed position. We all lowered off from the end of the difficulties on the tricker third pitch - a tough job to strip the gear from the route. Whilst in this area, we took the opportunity to try the direct version of Mister Pi, which gives good intricate moves over a tough bulge. Considerably harder if (as we did) you avoid the obvious crack further right: fingery and technical crux. As the sun dropped, we headed over to the Competicion sector, with its immaculate sweep of (rather polished) limestone. It was also my kind of terrain, just off vertical, delicate and semi-technical, so I pushed the grade up a tad with a lead of another well-known classic, Martxa d'aci. This is fingery and very sustained in its lower section. Small positive holds and pockets led to a technical section with one long reach, a hard and distinct crux. I was tiring now, and used the lower off right of the final groove. Great pitch - but long and sustained again, so we thought it best to retire for beer and pizza with a very long and tiring day in prospect tomorrow.

Mold border league

Race: Mold 5.5m (Border League race 5)
Time/Position: 29.12 (21st from 242 [4th v40])
Not a great outing: felt tired as soon as we turned onto the familiar hill up to Nercwys. Never really recovered, and couldn't get anywhere near Jez's small group that pulled away on the hill. Just hanging on towards the finish, feeling quite drained of energy: at least 40 seconds down on my best times for this course. Very little running last week, but only returned from Portugal yesterday, so general tiredness may be to blame.

Lisbon run

Just a short early morning pre-conference jog from my hotel near the Jardim Botanico up the hill to the top of the Edward II park. This gives magnificent views over the city to the Tagus beyond, and I did a few laps: steeply up on one side, relaxing downhill slopes on the other (mild hill reps!). Lots of walking round this delightful, hilly city.

Clwydian run

A belated attempt to push the hill mileage before next month's Three Peaks race in Yorkshire. This was a very enjoyable solo outing, and an attempt to replicate the race on our local hills (the 'three peaks' for training purposes being Moel Famau, Moel Arthur and Pen y Cloddiau!). Parked below Cilcain then took the race route down to the Pump House then up the steps to Famau: nobody around this early in the morning. The glorious running along the ridge before taking the steep diretissima up the front of Moel Arthur. Cloudy and cool throughout: ideal conditions. I extended the day considerably by heading out to distant Pen y Cloddiau, then back over the shoulder of Arthur to pick up the track down to Pedair Groesffordd and Cilcain. Two hours for the round: steady, gentle and enjoyable for a change.

Prestatyn border league

Race: Prestatyn 8.8k (Border League race 4)
Time/Position: 30.08 (16th from 248 [4th V40])
Felt very weak on Friday, to the point that I even backed off the usual jog up Moel Famau. A mild virus going round. As a result, it was a relief to feel OK as we set off in dreadful conditions, icy rain and cold wind, from Ffrith beach. This course was a change from the usual Prestatyn borders course: essentially two laps from Ffrith to the Nova centre and back via some waterlogged paths. With the wind at our backs, we made good progress eastwards, then struggled into the headwind back to Ffrith. Jez and I were neck and neck the whole way, working well with Craig and others into the headwind at a steady pace: a great mini-peloton! Jez sprinted away in the final 200m, but I held off the rest of the group to finish in my usual average BL place.

Pot Hole climbing

Crag: Pot Hole Quarry
Routes: The Watzmann (VS 4b:sh), Treffynnon (VS 4b:sh), Unaided (VS 4b:sh), Grizzly (VS 4c:sh), Major (HVS 5a:sh)
Just a few shunted evening routes in preparation for the forthcoming Spanish cragging trip, now the evenings are getting a little lighter. I haven't touched rock since August, but after several visits to the wall (breaking the habit of a lifetime) I was hopeful of some strength improvements. I was on my own, but the sun broke through and mitigated a cool wind. I've done all these routes dozens of times and have been visiting the crag since the 1980s. Went up and down a few old favourites, using different variations and avoiding the bigger holds: felt quite good, which is more than I can say about the subsequent run from Cadole.

Anglesey Half Marathon

Race: Anglesey Half Marathon
Time/Position: 1.23.04 (27th from 1299 [4th V40])
A weekend in Henllys booked a year ago and, by sheer coincidence, the Anglesey half marathon headed past the front door (almost). As I always do a long run when on Anglesey, I entered it with a few weeks to go. Sadly, that meant very little time to get some mileage in my legs so it was with some inevitability that I started to struggle soon after getting to Beaumaris - even with the wind at my back from the superb and memorable start on the 'mainland' side of Menai Bridge. Over the Straits was a real treat on a sunny St David's Day, and the road was closed to traffic giving excelllent scenic running past the family in Henllys (through 10k in 37.11). Then comes a long and familiar climb through Llanfaes and Llangoed before the homeward leg into an awful headwind. This became fierce along the front in Beaumaris, just as I became vulnerable to fatigue given current lack of mileage. Lost a lot of time, but not too many places, on the hilly homeward leg to Menai Bridge into the headwind. Slowest time for years, but a great course: and very nice to be back relaxing in the pool before 11am.

Parbold Hill Race

Race: Parbold Hill Race, Lancashire (6.75m)
Time/Position: 46.33 (17th from 464 [4th V40])
This famous race was celebrating its 45th birthday this year, making it three months older than me. It tends to clash with the Wrexham half marathon, which is some explanation for the fact that I have never done it before. It is a real cracker: which hovers some way between a fell race and a trail race in tone. A frantic start, dashing round a field, leads to a long road section through Bispham village, then off road on a fell-race style climb to a quarry, surprisingly steep. From here some fields lead eventually to the road at Parbold and a longer climb on the main road (A5209) to the top of the hill. I fell headlong on one of the muddier sections, but a soft landing meant no harm was done. I gained three places on the climb and pushed on a bit for the superb running along fields and tracks at the top of the very broad 'ridge' which leads to some kind of summit. I slid under a stile with a mile to go, painfully scraping the skin from my shins. Hobbling a bit, my ankle still fragile, I slowed for the leap over the hay bale then the plunge into the stream just before the finish: and lost the places I'd gained.

Alsager 5m

Race: Alsager 5
Time/Position: 28.47 (77th from 896)
Despite the fact that recent intervals sessions have been close to my best, this was a rather disappointing minute slower than the time I'd targeted (I haven't done many flat 5 milers so hoped to get under my PB of 28.00). Alsager is a fast course and a well-known competitive race which attracts an elite field from across the UK, but despite that I struggled almost from the start. I went through the second mile well over my target time of 11 minutes, then fell back further as the route switches back from the town centre to a long run-in against a fairly brisk and cold headwind.

Dash in the Dark

Race: Dash in the Dark, Llandegla (race 3)
Time/Position: 29.16 (4th from 191 [1st V40])
I was pleased that these night-time trail/fell races had been resurrected this winter, having enjoyed many of them in the past. But I missed the first race in November, then retired from the second after turning my ankle again. So this was my first night-time race since the old series a few years ago. However, there was one big difference: I've done these races with as few as 25 runners, but today the queue snaked out of the door. An enormous field, all rather baffling. The race was good, with a layer of melting snow making life difficult and necessitating a brand new pair of mudclaws. Not ideal to break them in on the race. They helped, but my damaged, fragile ankle made descending very slow. As a result, I moved into 4th place fairly quickly but lost ground on every descent. I was always conscious of the two immediately behind me, as they descended far quicker. But I was able to pull away a bit on the track round the lake and on the final long drag to the finish. Always exciting to race through these woods in the dark.

Hope Mountain run

The village roads resembled an ice rink as I set off in the early morning, but by Hope the extra altitude meant that a layer of soft snow eased progress. By the top of Waun y Llyn, all the trees were draped in a decent covering of snow. After a burst of sunshine as I ran through snowy fields, a light mist came down, and the run across the ridge was very pleasant. A loop around the top, then back via Hope. Slightly tired after yesterday's race, but not too bad in the circumstances.

Twin Piers 10k

Race: Twin Piers 10k
Time/Position: 35.22 (9th from 390)
My quickest 10k time for at least two years, and just over a minute slower than my PB - set on this course in 2011. Recent intervals and border league outings have gone reasonably well, so I was targeting sub-36. There was a slight tailwind, which helped a bit for the first 2k along the prom. I climbed over the Little Orme fairly efficiently, closing a few gaps with the groups in front. Then comes the loop through the estate in Rhos on Sea before rejoining the prom for the final 4k blast to Colwyn Bay pier. Welcome support from the family, but I couldn't quite close the gap with two runners immediately in front and finished outside the category prizes for the first time ever on this race. This is definitely my favourite road 10k; perhaps my 6th time at the event.

Birkenhead border league

Race: Birkenhead 5.6m (Border League race 3)
Time/Position: 31.25 (15th from 314)
I had thought this was to be my 50th Border League appearance, but after checking (I am sad enough to have a record) I realised that I had already passed that milestone at Tattenhall last month. So this was Border League race 51. I quite like this circuit, despite the fact that it is just four longish laps. The park is nice and there are lots of twists and turns: you can gauge your effort against the rest of the field quite effectively. That said, I was a few seconds down on previous outings (at least six) over the course, although I felt I ran reasonably well and am close to my quickest intervals times at present. A bit of a headwind at times may have been to blame. I moved through the field and caught Jez on the third lap: he was strong however and stayed ahead on the final lap, as did two others. Buckley still lead the Veterans table, but have slipped to third overall.

Berwyn traverse

Peaks: Moel Sych, Cadair Berwyn
Area: Berwyn, Eryri
Another opportunity to observe Morgan outside his natural habitat, but whereas last year the Scouts opted for a relatively gentle loop of the Crafnant valley this was a rather more ambitious outing. When I heard the plan - to traverse the range from south-west (Llangynog) to north-east (Cynwyd) I was a bit sceptical and frankly worried about the two younger boys' prospects. I love point-to-point outings but they are committing, and the weather was bad as we set off from Llangynog in heavy sleet and clouds wreathing Craig Rhiwarth. We walked down the little road in the Tanat Valley that I'd cycled down on the Wild Wales challenge last August, then headed up through atmospheric birch woodland into Cwm Glan Hafon. I'd never been here before, and the sleet turned to snow as we traversed under Garnedd Wen to pick up the bridleway down to the next valley over (which contains Pistyll Rhaedr). The rain eased now, but had left a good covering of snow higher up. In the valley, mist began to peel away from the crags as the waterfall came into view - Wales' most impressive. After a dank lunch, we continued up Nant y Llyn towards the main Berwyn ridge. The younger boys began to slow, inevitably, and we split into two groups: more encouragingly, the mist cleared to reveal blue skies and a snowy Berwyn ridge. From Lluncaws we moved up the ridge - windy and cold - me supporting Morgan at times. He was tiring as the mist came down again, but perked up for a superb crossing of the ridge to Cadair Berwyn as the mist intermittently cleared with some spectacular effects. By Bwlch Maen Gwynedd, it was thick again - and a headtorch finish seemed inevitable as the boys slowed considerably. Over Moel Pearce and Moel Ty Uchaf, the moon rising in a purple sky and tendrils of mist peeling away from the hills to the north. Lovely soft light, and we reached the road above Pont yr Hendwr in the last glimmers of daylight. I headed off on a long road slog to pick up the car in Cynwyd.

Carneddau walk

Peaks: Pen yr Olau Wen, Carnedd Dafydd, Carnedd Llywellyn
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
The classic circuit of the main Carneddau peaks in superb winter conditions. Nice to enjoy a relaxing winter hillwalk as a change from all the running. Unusual clarity of light as Rich and I approached Ogwen with the snowline at around 400m. A decent dump of snow had occurred a few hours after the walls race on Boxing Day, perfect timing, and had been followed by cold anticyclonic conditions. No ice build up yet though, and no freeze-thaw, so a ridge walk seemed better than winter climbing today. Completely windless as we negotiated the bad step to gain the east ridge of Pen, Rich clad in short-sleeved t-shirt. Truly alpine in tone: with a pleasant lunch on the summit enjoying the views over to Snowdon. Deep blue skies for the ridge traverse over Dafydd to distant Llywellyn: some mild sport on the ridge. Cold on the summit of Llywellyn as the sun began to drop: more mild winter mountaineering on the scrambly descent of the always excellent ridge to the bwlch near Craig yr Ysfa. Back to Ogwen via the Llugwy track. I've probably done this route 20 times over the years, often in fine conditions of sun and snow, but this matched the best of them.

Round the Walls

Race: Round the Walls, Chester (4.7m)
Time/Position: 25.15 (10th from 430)
With a sharp frost forecast it seemed very unlikely that the full route would be on this morning. I've done the race at least five times, and have only once done the walls - such is the sensitivity of the route to adverse weather. However, we woke to dull skies and no frost, so the race was on. Kate and I set off with enfants spectating (with a distinct lack of interest) from the Roodee grandstand. The Roodee section was limited this year, with a sprint out to the first furlong marker, then back via some loops near the grandstand to climb the steps to Nuns Road. Then came the walls - really exciting racing. There was a group of four or five some way in front of me, then myself and Gary Norgrove. Great racing round the walls and through the recently opened clock tower. I felt OK as we started along the long final straight, next to the Dee, round the Roodee, and a few extra loops on the very muddy racecourse.

Gamelin/Cyrn y Brain run

Our now traditional pre-Christmas mountain run coincided (as it did last year) with an appalling forecast. But whereas last year we carried on regardless, this time discretion got the better part of valour: Peter and I abandoned ambitious Carneddau plans for a circuit of the Moel y Gamelin race route (in reverse, so as to benefit from the tailwind over the ridge). The plan worked well, sheltered from the worst of the wind along the tracks north of the hills. Then we climbed up to the ridge at Bwlch y Groes after extending the race route slightly. Superb running with a strong tailwind, despite low cloud and poor viz, over all the tops: Moel Morfydd, Moel y Gaer, Gamelin and Moel y Faen. From a drizzly and rather grim Horseshoe Pass, we continued to the top of Cyrn y Brain (the meat of the Ponderosa race). No more than light rain throughout, surprisingly, and even some slight glimmers of sunshine as we descended for tea in the cafe. A nice relaxed festive outing combining two well-known race routes: 13 or so miles, 3000ft of ascent, following on nicely from yesterday's enjoyable Buckley Christmas outing in the Clwydians.

Leicestershire hill run

A very pleasant introduction to the small but neatly formed Charnwood hills near Loughborough with Steve. We left the Coombs' household in the middle of town and, surprisingly quickly, reached open fields and a bitter wind. From here, a gentle climb to woodland led to a good descent down to a hidden valley. Nice, almost Pennine, scenery. After running along this valley, a sharp 'fell-race like' climb led past some little crags up to Beacon Hill. Not quite Leicestershire's highest point, but a decent view over the flatlands to the east and south. From here, excellent running down tracks and bridleways led back to Loughborough.

Tattenhall border league

Race: Tattenhall '10k' (Border League race 2)
Time/Position: 35.18 (17th from 314 [2nd V40])
After turning my ankle badly at the Dash in the Dark on Friday, the frozen peas had worked their magic and I felt OK to start one of my favourite Border League courses, a nice lumpy 10k into the Peckforton Hills. Clearly, there's a weakness in the left ankle after I went over on it at Rhobell Fawr last month: but keeping it nice and straight on a road race is comfortable (slippery tree stumps and bare rock, not so much). A stiff wind seemed likely to offer some resistance for the long and very familiar 'false flat' that leads back to the finish in Tattenhall. So I tried to save something. This worked initially, after going reasonably steadily up the steep hill I passed three or four runners: but, as usual, I was caught out at the end by my lack of finishing kick. Two of those I'd passed surged to the finish before me. Slightly down on last year's time, but not a bad performance in the circumstances. Buckley doing well this year: first veteran team and second in the first division at present.

Wrexham Cross Country

Race: Wrexham XC (North Wales Cross Country League race 3)
Time/Position: 32.40 (20th from 138)
A token appearance in the cross-country league, but the team were missing several runners and its only a short drive for me. I only realised the race was on this morning after running up Moel Famau in the mist last night. Felt reasonably fresh though, and was around the same time as previous races on this flat course (apart from last year, when I blew completely on the last lap!).

Clwydian run

Just the normal friday night run up Moel Famau from Cadole, but notable for appalling visibility: probably the worst I've experienced in many years and hundreds of night-time ascents. I was on my own for most of the climb from the leat, and reckon visibility was between 1 and 2 metres - with an unusually low cloud base, thick mist, and steady drizzle. In the dark, with condensing breath mingling with the rain, obscuring the funnel of light from the headtorch, this made for difficult progress: good job we know every inch of the route!

Wrekin Wrecker fell race

Race: Wrekin Wrecker fell race (8m/2400ft)
Time/Position: 1.08.14 (23rd from 189)
An object lesson in making the most of a small Shropshire hill: three different ascents of this famous miniature mountain near Telford make this a tough and memorable race. An unusually strong field today, and a fast pace from the start through autumnal woods, very wet underfoot, before gaining a series of long zig-zags  through the conifers to gain a steepish ridge and the crest of the Wrekin. Some mist playing around, and urban views over Telford below as we embarked on a superb descent. This went down tracks initially before plunging down very steep and narrow paths on soft leaf litter. This suited me perfectly for some reason, and I picked up 10 places. A long false flat section led to a brutally steep climb back to the little rock pinnacle near the summit. Quite cold and still, so the condensing runners' breath created a weird low mist through the trees. From the pinnacle over the main summit ridge before plunging back down yet again. Another climb back to the top was inevitable, and it came soon after: three times up the Wrekin is enough for anyone. After the final descent, however, came an excellent long run-in, fast and enjoyable.

Clwydian run

Crisp and sunny autumnal weather, so Vic and I took the opportunity for a longer morning run from Cadole. After the usual route up Moel Famau we descended the ridge towards Penbarras, then embarked on a long additional route through the woods from the bwlch to rejoin the usual Friday night descent. Beautiful morning of falling leaves and unbroken sunshine.

Christleton border league

Race: Christleton 5.8m (Border League race 1)
Time/Position: 33.41 (22nd from 352 [3rd V40])
This was supposed to be a mild jog with sore legs after yesterday's Welsh Championship finale. But in the event I had such a bad race at Rhobell Fawr that I didn't feel particularly tired as soon as I'd adapted to the usual flat out road pace after a fast first mile. It always takes a while to adapt to the ever-competitive Border League after a summer in the hills, but I've done a few hard intervals sessions over the last few weeks so felt fairly well prepared. Yesterday's race was obviously a factor, so I kept a conservative pace ticking over throughout, not wanting to blow up on the final mile which I knew from several previous attempts at this course is gently uphill all the way. Two years ago I was tripped up after half a mile on this course, landing on my head, staring at the clouds, and had no wish to repeat the experience. I slowed a bit over the slippery sequence of ancient cobbled bridges, unable to keep with the pace of Eric and Jez, but I did manage to pick up a few places on the final uphill mile.

Rhobell Fawr fell race

Race: Rhobell Fawr fell race (10.5k/2000ft)
Time/Position: 59.49 (20th from 88)
A badly twisted ankle ruined my chances of first place in the Welsh fell running championships on the final descent of this - the final race in the series. After my mistake at the Black Mountains in September which cost me lots of time, I only had a slender 3 point lead over Darren Fishwick coming into the last race of the championships. As a result, I had to put in a decent performance, but completely failed to do so (although he was much quicker on the climb and would still have beaten me today even if I had run the perfect race!). I felt slow on the climb, even though I'd intended to really batter myself! But I got up reasonably quickly and was still in touch as I started the descent - then it all went wrong. I started to lose ground on those in front, shoes slipping all over the place with worn down studs: intermittent rain and light mist. Then I took the wrong line half way down the descent, up a little draining climb near the sheepfold. To my left, a group of pursuers followed the wall and immediately gained 100m on me. Ruing my mistake, I then turned my left ankle in a sickening wrench. After hobbling for a minute or two, I managed to break into a jog (having damaged that ankle many times it does tend to right itself after a while!) but then slipped and fell on the steep grassy slopes above the descent track. Once off the open hill, I sprang back into life and enjoyed a quickish final section through the muddy woods and tracks that lead back to the village. Missed first place in the V40 category by the annoyingly narrow margin of 2.5 points, finishing in 2nd place with 363 - the last two disastrous races having blotted the rest of a great series for me. I can't think of many nicer autumnal venues than Llanfachreth - beautiful colours, and amidst the sharp downpours we had a burst of sunshine over Mawddach and Cader as Jez and I warmed down with a jog round the Precipice Walk.

Clwydian Hills fell race

Race: Clwydian Hills (15k/3000ft)
Time/Position: 1.21.32 (8th from 148)
I've been lured away to the Abergele 5 road race on this weekend for the past three years, so thought it was about time I returned to this local classic. I still remember the trauma of my first time at this race a decade ago: when I found the gully climax a brutal struggle and returned home with the classic thousand yard stare. I think this was my 6th time at the event. Beautiful autumn weather this morning, perfect conditions, as we set off for the long climb up to the ridge from Cilcain. I struggled terribly at first, not sure why (perhaps because I've upped the training in the past two weeks) and was close to packing it in as we neared Drws y Coed. The descent down to the Vale of Clwyd was an opportunity to regain some strength, although I missed the checkpoint initially and wasted some time. Contouring the Vale, I started to feel a bit better and began to gain places on the very long grassy ascent back up to the ridge. This race does have an 'arbitrary punishment' feel to it, but takes in some great terrain and really makes the most of our local hills. A steep descent leads down to Nant y Ne, and the usual horrendously steep climb out via the gully. I made up some ground and picked up the pace for the descent, the best I'd felt all day! A good battle with a runner from Todmorden, although I couldn't quite match his speed on the flatter tracks towards the finish.

Conwy 'three peaks' run

An early morning run made possible by the clock change. Left Hodeston in the half light before 7am, warmed up with a circuit of the town and food festival stalls, then up to the top of the Sychnant Pass. Windy with drizzle on the summit of Allt Wen, but an orange sun lit the horizon further west. Alpenglow (almost!) as I ran back down to pick up the paths over Penmaenhead and Mynydd y Dref.

British Fell Relays

Race: British fell relay championships, Middleton, Cumbria (Leg 2, 15k, 1000m)
Peaks: Castle Knott, Calf Top
Time/Position: 1.39.02 (79th from 220)
The Middleton Fells are a small range of quiet hills south of the Howgills proper, and made an interesting and attractive venue for this year's British fell race relays. This was Buckley's fourth time at the event, and I like it more every time - just a great day out. An early start saw us arrive at the race HQ in a field above Middleton by 9am. Paul D set off on the first leg under threatening skies, and handed over to Steve and I an hour or so later. This is the third time I've done the long pairs leg, and we set to work making up a few places (although we took a bad line initially, having to cross a deep rocky gorge to regain the wall!).  From here, the route steepened up to a checkpoint on Eskdale Pike, after which we passed dozens of teams up Thorn Moor to the summit of Castle Knott. A tailwind was very pleasant up this steepish but nicely runnable ridge. Then an uneccessary descent took us right down to near the road at Barton Beck, then very steeply back out - a real slog - right up to the highpoint at Calf Top. Steve had done the XC race yesterday so unsurprisingly this was a lot more comfortable for me. The weather was rather grim by now: misty, some rain and driving wind. I thought it prudent to get the map out, and took a rough bearing down to Wrestle Gill. We opted to contour high up with the valley as a 'handrail'. Glad we did, as a good number of teams must have gone too far left down the broad ridge - missing out checkpoint 6 hidden near a stream junction at the bottom of Wrestle Gill, numerous DNFs as a result. I scoped out several sheep trods and used them to good effect. Later, a long haul round Cartsaddle Hill gave way to a very fast finish. Steve suddenly found an extra gear, and his track pedigree started to show as we finished quickly. I've placed around 40th in all three previous relays, so this was obviously quite a bit slower, but we still gained around 100 places over the leg. We handed over to Huw and Andy, then retired to the marquee for sausages and local Kirby Lonsdale ale.

Flintshire 10k

Race: Flintshire 10k
Time/Position: 37.25 (3rd from 354)
Although my time was a little slower than last year, this was my first road race since April and as such quite an enjoyable outing. It's an ideal transition from a summer racing in the hills, as it feels more like a fell race than a road race, with one giant hill taking up much of the first 5k, but I still suffered from lack of leg speed as soon as it flattened out (having only resumed interval training last week). This is inevitable at this time of the year: there's a big difference between a long fell race and a road 10k! A small group of us set off at the front of the race in beautiful autumn sunshine, quite hot. Not too many club runners, possibly because it is a tough course (with 800ft of climbing) that guarantees a very slow time! As we approached the hill, I started to get a bit closer to Darren Blazier in second place - and we had a good battle all the way up, me going ahead on the steep sections, him pulling past as it levelled out. At the top of the hill near Maeshafn, he pulled past decisively and I had no answer to his pace as the road started to descend to Nercwys. Went through 5k in 20.40 or so - this race ensures a major negative split. We were well ahead of the rest of the field, over a minute separated me and the runner in 4th, so I just concentrated on getting close to last year's time on the very fast final 5k (16.45?).

Black Mountains fell race

Race: Black Mountains fell race (17.5m/5200ft/AL)
Peaks: Crug Hywel/Table Mountain (451m), Pen Cerrig Calch (701m), Pen Allt Mawr (719m), Pen Twyn Glas (645m), Pen y Gadair Fawr (800m), Chwarel y Fan (679m), Bal Mawr (607m), Crug Mawr (550m)
Time/Position: 3.01.03 (19th from 93)
Not one, not two, but three unfortunate route finding errors rather spoiled this Welsh Championships counter for me. The last detour was by far the worst, just a few hundred metres from the end of the race (after putting a lot of effort in and heading for a reasonable time by my limited standards) I pelted straight down the road and missed a vital (unmarked) stile indicating the descent to the finish. I ended up on the road to Crickhowell, 1k from the village, and had to navigate back along the river losing a huge amount of time. If you discount the last 10 minutes, though, it was a great race! Steeply up from Llanbedr (a nice village last visited for the classic Llanbedr-Blaenafon), and up towards Crug Hywel and the main Black Mountains ridge. Superbly runnable over the limestone summit of Pen Cerrig Calch and Pen Allt Mawr, looking down to the final ridge of the Waun Fach race that I'd so enjoyed in July. High cloud, and quite warm, and we headed down steeply to Grwyne Fechan from Pen Twyn Glas. From the airless bottom of the valley, a steep haul led round to the east of Pen y Gadair Fawr. Locals took a better contouring line lower down, but I didn't lose too much ground and was comfortably in the top 10 at this stage. Superb twisting and exciting descent through a bracken path to the steep-sided valley of Grwyne Fawr, then a river crossing before a very steep climb up to Chwarel y Fan above the Vale of Ewyas and the English border. Then came a fantastic and surprisingly narrow ridge, brilliant running although I was starting to tire a bit. Over the summit of Bal Mawr before a draining and complex descent down to the road in the Mynydd Du forest. Then came more complex route finding through the maze of forest tracks leading to the open hillside below the final peak of Crug Mawr. I had my only gel, and kept a reasonable pace going - all the time unsure about the route through the thick woodland. Eventually, I emerged and tried to catch a biggish group in front on Crug Mawr. I reached the summit in 2.35, to be told by the marshall that it was '10 minutes to the finish'. Stomach cramps marred a superb descent, but it got worse as I arrived at a crossroads. No idea where to go, so waited for the next runner to join me. Straight down it was, to some tape marking the final descent. This was a relief, so I switched off and concentrated on a flat-out descent to the village. Bad decision, as I flew past the crucial stile, lost 8-10 minutes, and ruined the race. Rather gutting, as I was leading my category in the Champs before the race. The South Wales curse continues: the third time I have made a serious route-finding error in a race down here - that said, I'm told the descent from Crug Mawr is the exact reverse of the climb on Llanbedr-Blaenafon, so perhaps I have few excuses.

Vitosha

Peaks: Maluk Rezen (2191m)
Area: Vitosha, Bulgaria
Vitosha may well be unique. Although there are other big cities dominated by a single large mountain (Yerevan springs to mind, perhaps Tokyo) I can't think of any like Sofia where the mountain is accessible direct from the suburbs. After a big day yesterday and a lot of travel, I wasn't sure I could be bothered working out the route to the peak, so initially tried to jog there from my hotel. This didn't work, and I gave up in the outer suburbs of Sofia, opting instead for a 6k jog back to the hotel. After a trip into the city centre, however, I walked down Vitosha Boulevard which, as its name suggests, is dominated by a view of the mountain (specifically, a view of Maluk Rezen). I couldn't resist, and had plenty of time before my flight, so got a taxi to the base of the Simenovo cable car and brought a ticket. This whisks you above the forests up to 1800m, way above the city, and was very relaxing after yesterday's exertions. I didn't have time for a long outing, so decided to make my way up to the two vague peaks that I could see from Sofia. The peak on the left had a huge tower on top, with hundreds of weekend walkers making their way along a broad track, so I went for the boulder-strewn summit on the right via a steep grassy slope to gain the very broad main ridge. From here, all of Vitosha appears as a vast plateau with various humps rising from it. Distant views were very hazy, with Sofia so far below as to be practically invisible - an incredible contrast. It would have been nice to see across to Musala and Rila from my highpoint at Maluk Rezen but it was too dank and hazy, so I went down to the Aleko hut for a slap-up lunch of Tarator, Mishmash and Bulgarian sausage.

Musala Horseshoe

Peaks: Musala (2925m), Malka Musala (2902m), Irechek (2852m)
Area: Rila, Bulgaria
The highest peak between the Alps and the Caucasus, Musala made an obvious target for a mountain interlude following a short research trip to Macedonia and Kosovo. I travelled up in one long day from Skopje via Sofia and Samokov and stayed the night in Borovets, a rather depressing out-of-season ski resort. I may well have been the only guest in the entire resort, so got up early with no breakfast options and no cable car running. This added a very significant extra 1000m climb to the day! Some cursory research revealed that Musala could be combined with two more peaks to create a rather attractive horseshoe along narrow ridges with an Alpine flavour. So the extra 1000m vertical interval was doubly unfortunate (Borovets is at 1300m, Musala almost 3000m). Still, I got to work in the cold crisp air of early morning and adopted a sustainable jog through the thick forest of Bulgarian fir and Macedonian pine. The trees were statuesque and attractive but the slog was inevitably rather boring as it essentially followed a ski route up a narrow valley (it may have been the route taken by the World Mountain Running championships last year - let's hope they choose something more interesting when the worlds come to Betws next year!). I finally emerged below the top ski lift after an hour of running: then a tortuous twisting mile of small paths through dwarf pine forest before finally gaining a beautiful Alpine meadow with the peaks rising into the blue sky above. A memorable moment, with frost crystals on the grass and the sun just peaking over the shoulder of the impressive Irechek and Musala beyond. My weather luck was in, and a tricky river crossing led to the Musala hut complex (80 mins from Borovets) and fabulous views over the lake to the peaks beyond. I had the place to myself, a real privilege on such a popular peak, and was thoroughly enjoying myself after missing out on an Alpine trip this year. After walking round the lake by the hut, a broad gully then gains height quickly to gain a series of little cwms decorated by beautiful lakes reminiscent of the Pyrenees or Maritime Alps (the Musalenska Ezera lakes). The path weaves through a series of little ridges and moraines to gain a steeper scree slope and more desolate terrain as it makes its way up to Ledeneto Ezero ('Ice Lake'), a dramatic feature in a hollowed out cwm. It was very icy on this section, as the sun still hadn't got up, with the rocks rather treacherous (and the hideous 'Everest hut' near the lake completely deserted). The ridge leading to Musala was in the sunshine, though, and gave a great ascent. I saw three people, the first I'd seen all day, to my mild annoyance, near the hut - but soon gained the broad ridge leading up more icy rocks to the summit (50m from the Musala Hut). Again, it felt like a privilege to be on my own up here (the highest person in Europe between the Alps and Caucasus!) as it is such a popular mountain. It was cold but superbly clear, with views over Rila and more hazily across to Vitosha in the north and Pirin in the south. After a quick snack I continued along the obvious ridge (the Trionite ridge) leading to Malka Musala. This becomes much narrower almost immediately, and the path remarkably narrow and ill-defined. I was amazed, given the popularity of the main peak. A superb scrambly ridge, with some ancient rusting cables, led just right of the crest via a weaving little path - mildly exposed in places - down to a pronounced narrow col. From here, a short chimney gave access to more scrambling up the crest - all really enjoyable - to easier terrain leading to the top of Malka Musala. Great views back to the main peak. Next up was the fine peak of Irechek, which dominates the view from the Musala Hut. This was again surprisingly sporting in tone, with a steep descent and quite intricate route-finding down to another deep col. Then a rocky ridge which led to an impressive final summit tower. Felt a bit like Beinn Eighe. From Irechek, the terrain flattens out and becomes very reminiscent of the Carneddau: big ridges connecting big green hills. I ran down to a broader ridge below a subsidiary peak and then traversed icy north-facing rocks below the Sfinska (the Sphinx) to pick up a small path dropping off Deno. This became hard to follow by the lake, and some marshy bog-trotting continued the Carneddau theme! After a bite to eat outside the deserted hut, I ran flat out back down to Borovets to check out of my hotel before midday.

Pedol Peris

Race: Peris Horseshoe fell race (18m/8500ft/AL)
Peaks: Elidir Fawr, Y Garn, Glyder Fawr, Lliwedd, Snowdon, Moel Cynghorion
Time/Position: 4.17.02 (9th from 50)
As my third attempt at a sub-4 Pedol evaporated into an undignified dehydrated plod on Lliwedd, I was forced to reflect that I am currently good for three hours sustained effort: but not a minute more! This was all a bit disappointing, though, as I'd hoped my endurance would be a bit better after concentrating on slightly longer races than usual this summer. Peter and I cut it very fine indeed to register for the race in the morning: less than 20 minutes to go when I paid my entry fee at the Heights (this would have been a stressful rush for a 5k, let alone the hardest mountain race in Wales). A sprint through Llanberis to the field near Vivian Quarry and we were off up the inclines by a different route than usual. This took us further right towards the crags before heading up the tracks to gain the open hill on Elidir Fach. A welcome breeze took the edge of what was shaping up to be a hot day. I went direct for Elidir Fawr and gained the summit bang on 48 minutes, exactly the same as last year. I was determined to stick to sub-4 schedule, but made sure I enjoyed every step of the next section - for me the highlight of the race, contouring round Foel Goch to the slog up Y Garn. Great views over the Carneddau, perfect conditions, all looking good. Still felt pretty fresh for the next climb up Glyder Fawr, but then took a less than ideal line too far left down to Pen y Pass. It is notoriously hard to find the best line down here, but it wasn't a disaster as I reached the Pass in 1.55. I have a vivid memory of chronic dehydration on my first Pedol Peris some years ago, so took a litre on board as I jogged up the Miners Track towards Lliwedd. It didn't work, however, and I started to suffer quite early in the climb. My only gel didn't help and I began to slip away from the group in front. I perked up very briefly on the Lliwedd ridge, great views over the crags to Snowdon, and momentarily thought I might be able to catch the group in front. This was an illusion, however, and I really suffered over Lliwedd and hobbled down to Bwlch y Saethau, falling further behind. I took the scrambling line direct up the ridge to Snowdon, the opportunity to use the arms always welcome, before enjoying the usual surreal experience of emerging into the crowds on a chilly and misty Snowdon. Difficult to dodge the people, so I jumped onto the railway track and pelted down, relieved to turn off on the Snowdon Ranger path. Any revival proved short-lived, however, and I soon recommenced hobbling down to the col below Cynghorion. The sting in the tail up Cynghorion doesn't last too long, but it was long enough today - and my snail's pace continued, losing another place and loads of time, on the punishing descent down to Maesgwm and long run back to the finish at the Victoria hotel. Shame I felt so rough, but more positively the Pedol always provides a memorably hard race. We recovered with a pint and soup at the Heights.

Grisedale Horseshoe fell race

Race: Grisedale Horseshoe fell race (16.5k/5000ft/AM)
Peaks: Catstycam, Helvellyn, Nethermost Pike, St Sunday Crag
Time/Position: 2.20.08 (30th from 120)
It looks likely that I will miss this year's batch of mountain marathons, but I always like at least one trip to the Lakes each year: so this was a good opportunity for a late summer 'away day' with Huw and Steve. A classic race and classic hard route, despite the relative shortness of the course. It reminded me of the sadly defunct Carneddau race - only a 'medium' but tougher than many 'longs' due to the amount of climbing. It had taken me a while to recover from Maesgwm and I had no wish to damage myself (with one eye to a possible Pedol Peris next week) so took it easy throughout. As such, we all had a very enjoyable and quite relaxed day. Stuck with Steve for the path from Glenridding, which goes gently up towards the steep climb round the side of Birkhouse Moor taking the most direct line to Red Tarn. After a long, hard climb with the sun peeping through high clouds and the temperatures climbing, the ground flattens out towards the lake but then kicks up dramatically for the full frontal ascent of Catstycam. Superb running along Swirral Edge followed, with some mild scrambling up to the top of Helvellyn with the mist clearing from Striding Edge below. This was my first time up Helvellyn for 26 years: last went up in leisurely fashion via Striding Edge with the University Hiking Club in October 1988! Tremendous stuff with far reaching views over the western Lakes, and it was followed by brilliant easy running south along the ridge line, across the summit plateau of Nethermost Pike skirting Dollywagon Pike to a steep and punishing descent down to a CP at Grisedale Tarn. I took this very easy, not wanting to risk quad damage. After missing a few racing lines earlier on, I got in with a small group of local runners for the route up the fine peak of St Sunday Crag - new territory for me. They knew all the best lines, and we cut one giant corner via a tiny contouring sheep trod. On the main ridge, I felt quite good, benefiting from a relaxed start, so pushed on a bit and gained a few places as the mist skirted the summit, keeping the temperatures down. I then found the crucial scree gully which helps quickly gain the steep grass slopes down to the barn and CP at Elmhow. From here a river crossing leads to a slog through bracken up to a level path with great views across to Place Fell, before the savage sting in the tail up to the Hole in t'Wall. This is desperately steep, rather like the Blorenge at the end of Llanbedr-Blaenafon: hands and knees at times. Because I'd taken it easy it wasn't too bad, but I can imagine blowing completely here. After the stile on the ridge, a diagonal contouring line gained the outward path at Birkhouse Moor followed by an excellent fast and smoothish descent back to the finish in Glenridding. Tea, cakes and sandwiches at the village hall followed by a fine recovery pint at the Water Mill in Ings.

Llandegla mountain biking

MTB Route: Llandegla Blue variant (15k)
Eve's first visit to Llandegla, and a very pleasant few hours of light winds and warm sunshine. She coped reasonably well with the long climb, although wilted on the undulations at the top: just as M did on his two trips. A little sugary sustenance revived her, and she enjoyed the bumps, berms and singletrack descents of the True Blue section. Her downhill technique improved noticeably in the space of half an hour: tea and cake at the cafe followed.

Maesgwm Muddle

Race: Maesgwm Muddle fell race (16.2k/1160m)
Peaks: Moel Cynghorion, Foel Goch, Foel Gron, Moel Eilio, Cefn Du
Time/Position: 1.47.47 (57th from 182)
A very similar route to the long leg of the fell relays last October, but with added punishment in the form of arbitrary steep descents and bonus climbs. I ran this because it was the fourth race of the Welsh Champs, but in the knowledge that it was also a British Champs race: which always means that you get blown away by proper athletes. Perhaps my eighth or ninth time at a British Champs race: they are a salutary lesson in just how slow you really are! The pace was quick from the start, a climb from the youth hostel above Llanberis to gain the big track that undulates its way over to Hebron station and the savage climb up the steepest side of Moel Cynghorion. My left shoe came off in a particularly cloying bog en route: an infuriating and time-consuming schoolboy error. Cynghorion is just a head down plod from Helfa Fawr, very steep, but I did start to gain a few places and held on for the equally steep and quite infamous descent down to Maesgwm. This was the arbitrary bit, because the route then heads up the runnable bridleway to regain the main ridge. I was plodding along over Foel Goch and Foel Gron, then into the mist below Moel Eilio: all the time gradually losing time and places in this competitive field. A slow descent down the very runnable track to Bwlch y Groes, which I know well, saw more go past. I finally started to feel some endurance kick in for the final arbitrary climb up Cefn du. For the first time in the race, I felt quite good and made up some ground up to its moorland summit. A reasonably quick descent to Llanberis followed by a very unpleasant 200m climb up a steep field to finish. Both previous races across this ridge (relays in September, Moel Eilio in May) were characterised by bad weather, but today all was calm and the rain held off until the moment we left Llanberis for Penrhyn Castle.

Wild Wales Challenge

Road Cycling: Wild Wales Challenge (Bala-Milltir Gerrig-Llangynog-Llanerfyl-Caersws-Dinas Mawddwy-Bwlch y Groes-Bala)
Distance: 100m/10,900ft
The climax of this event, up the infamous 'hard' side of Bwlch y Groes after 90 miles and 9,000ft of climbing, will remain ingrained in my mind for some considerable time. A brilliant day out on the bike over a very tough but pleasingly logical loop, and a great way to conclude my cycling year. I did something similar in 2011, my last 'cycling year', but remember finding the hard sportive I'd chosen to end the season with (Tour of the Peak) a little depressing after the Alps. Not the case this time, on home ground in Wales with fantastic scenery round every corner. We (me, Vic, Alun) started off in thick early morning fog in Bala, and quickly reached the first climb, a harder than expected ascent of Milltir Gerrig. I didn't even know the tiny road from Llandderfel east of Moel Heulog existed: it gives an appallingly steep start to the normal climb, then joins the B4391 for the superb open terrain which characterises the Milltir Gerrig. A taste of things to come: tiny, quiet roads and viscious gradients (the day's theme). A superb descent in the sunshine led to Llangynog and a side lane down the Tanat Valley. From here, many miles of narrow roads with virtually no flat sections, led through Llanfihangel yng Ngwynfa and Dolanog to eventually emerge at the first feed in Llanerfyl. This entire section was incredibly quiet, very beautiful and utterly unfamiliar. I thought I knew Wales well, but today's route proved otherwise and reminded me of the old adage that the country is the perfect size to get to know every corner of in one human lifetime. After tea and cakes in the village hall, we resumed battle. Still felt fresh, the company was good, and we were fairly well-matched for pace throughout. More very steep climbs characterised the next section to Caersws, where we had lunch in another village hall. Great atmosphere. Then came an unusual flat section up the Severn Valley where we could work in a group for a change. Over to Clywedog and more wonderful scenery (remote and unfamiliar, numerous red kites overhead) through Staylittle before beginning the climb over towards Dinas Mawddwy and the final feed. This was a little easier than expected, particularly after the brutality of the morning! Exquisite isolated terrain, though, past Rhiw Saeson, with a whiff of home ground as views started opening out over Cader. One sharp climb led to the main road and descent to Dinas Mawddwy. Bwlch y Groes was hanging over us, but after more cake and tea I was feeling reasonably optimistic as we entered the valley of doom! We passed the side valley of Cwm Cywarch, memories of our climbing trips there a few years ago, then headed up via a few teasing ramps to Llanymawddwy. You leave the trees via a sharp hairpin and you are into the infamous Bwlch y Groes. This starts hard, even a tad desperate after almost 7 hours in the saddle. But I got into the lowest gear and began to grind away. The scenery is great, of course, real Aran territory with steep slopes and crags either side. After about 1.5k, there is a slight easing before the desperate climax, round another bend into what is often described as the hardest section of road in Britain. Out of the saddle, I clawed upwards, then it eases off by the turn-off to Vyrnwy. Vic pulled alongside and we crested the Bwlch together and had a short break to enjoy the excellent clarity of light (it had clouded over but the rain held off) over the Aran ridge and across to Eryri, before enjoying the superb descent to Llanuwchllyn. Felt good for the ride back to Bala along the quiet side of Llyn Tegid. Just under 8 hours riding time, but that is irrelevant: the point is to enjoy the ride and to finish! The first drops of rain fell as we enjoyed a last slice of cake at the football ground finish. A wonderful tour, statistically similar to my big Alpine day on the Madeleine and Glandon a month ago, but very much harder as a result of the continual short steep climbs and descents. Loved the uncommercial low-key feel, far better than most sportives and much closer in spirit to a fell race.

Penmaenbach climbing

Crag: Penmaenbach Quarry, Conwy
Routes: A55 Hole Arete (f5:led), Jefferson Slab (f6a:sec), Y Clip Aur (f6a:led), Prelude to a Pint (f6c:led), The Whole of the Law (f6c:sec), Kato (f5+:sec), Samoa (f6a:sec), Playboys (f6a+:sec), Hitachi Arete (f6a+:led)
The first glimpses of blue sky after hours of rain as we parked up at Sychnant Pass. But it was still cold, windy and damp as we walked into the newly developed 'last but one level' which I'd run out of time to visit on last Friday's visit to the same quarry. A lovely walk between Allt Fawr and Conwy Mountain, with the sea in front, which brought us out below a nice looking slab of compact dolerite. I led the obvious arete on the left of the slab to start us off: shivering in the cold wind, but happy that the drizzle was starting to die away, and the rock was relatively dry. It gave a nice climb: shuffling out to the arete at times, moving up small edges on the slab at others. The routes are all of a decent length and are good quality by the standards of UK sports climbing: better than the lower tier, a good venue in a great location. Jefferson Slab was a little more technical: delicate and thought-provoking moves, and probably a tad harder than the similarly graded Y Clip Aur to its right. This goes up on small holds to a series of huge quartz jugs then a crux move over a steepening. Nice climb, but a tad overgraded (in common with much of the rest of this crag). Hayley despatched all the routes with ease. After lunch in the welcome sunshine, I then misread my printed topo - I thought I was on the f6b line of the Big A55 arete. I was actually on the 6c line of The Whole of the Law. I backed off this, then led what I thought was a 5+, but was actually the f6c Prelude to a Pint. This was obviously a new addition and had very little traffic, very few ascents. It goes up an extremely dubious corner crack to a strenuous layback/jamming crack on sharp rock. A mantel gains a sloping ledge, which is hard and technical to leave: fingery moves on small sloping holds. By the time I'd moved above the ledge, it was obvious this wasn't 5+! But I was committed and quite enjoyed the more solid rock of the slabby upper wall. It was far harder, more sustained and more technical than it looked, and was basically at my upper leading limit. However, I managed it all cleanly and on sight. It was a little friable in places - indeed, there is a very dangerous loose flake just left of the line - but it should settle down with traffic. The route kept coming, small holds and intricate climbing, up to a final awkward steepening where I ran out of quick draws! A hard to clip screwgate sufficed for the final mantel. Hayley then did a superb job of following the line and removing the gear: a vague traverse so a tad intimidating. I then did the arete line. Again, a horrible lower section, but the arete itself gives excellent climbing. A hard move off the ledge gives access to a quite technical series of rockovers pushing up blindly to pinch holds on the arete itself and small positive face holds. Half a grade harder, though, so if the arete is 6c, 'Prelude' is probably 6b+. Again, harder and more strenuous than it looked: but I managed it cleanly, very satisfying. We then walked down to the lower tier, a long way below! I thought that Kato would make an ideal lead for Hayley, and so it did: pleasant and positive. The twin slab routes of Samoa and Playboys were short but neat (also a bit wet): delicate and technical moves, particularly the thin right-hand line up to the obvious 'boil'. We were running out of time, so I finished with a lead of Hitachi Arete, a nice 6a+ up the blunt central arete. Far better than it looks, with excellent balancey moves on flat holds. A big climb back through the quarries to the Sychnant Pass, then drove to the Collie for a shortened version of the usual run.

Frodsham Wobbler race

Race: Robbie Webster Wobbler, Frodsham (6m/400m)
Time/Position: 40.31 (11th from 79)
The narrow twisting paths and short steep climbs characteristic of the sandstone hills above Frodsham and Helsby are quite familiar as a training ground: it is a fairly frequent stop for me on the way back from work. But incorporating them into a fast and furious new race, which hovered somewhere between cross-country and fell race in style, gave me a rather different perspective on the landscape! The hills are short and sharp so the pace was fast from the start, which went from Frodsham up to a short loop round Beacon Hill and top of the woods, then all the way along towards Woodhouses Hill. A longer climb up this before various additional climbs led back to the finish on Beacon Hill. The nature of the race meant there was a lot of place changes, all quite exciting, but as usual I finished at the back of a large and fairly closely matched group battling for the minor places. This is the first year the race has been opened up, and it is an excellent addition to the calendar, with a great post-race spread in Helsby.

Race the Train

Race: Race the Train, Tywyn (14m)
Time/Position: 1.36.21 (40th from 780)
Eight years since I last did this race, when I narrowly missed beating the train in atrocious weather. Entered this year at the last minute, thinking it might make a nice family day out (coincidentally my third visit to Meirionydd in five days). The race went reasonably well, but (inevitably) I found the cross-country pace hard to handle after a summer running and racing in the mountains. It is always hard to make this kind of transition and although I felt good on the road out of Tywyn and the early flattish running through the fields I began to struggle a bit as we approached half way (conscious that we had enjoyed a tailwind for the first half). Ted from Wrexham caught and ran with me for a big chunk of this section, and I finally started to feel fairly strong as we got onto the narrow sheep tracks that mark the start of the tough second half. We started to pass a few runners, although I slowed a bit on the steep stair climb out of the delectable Dolgoch falls. None of the climbs last long, though, so I was able to hold on even though my complete lack of recent speed training was beginning to tell. I was reasonably pleased with my time, beating the train by 12 minutes, but finished well down a fairly strong field with runners from across the UK.

Ogwen/Conwy climbing

Crag: Braich y Ddeugwm, Ogwen
Routes: Hollt (VD:led), Recess Left (HS 4a:led), Hollt Lydan (S 4a:led), Grisiau (S:led)
Crag: Penmaenbach Quarry, Conwy
Routes: Kato (f5+:led), National Disaster (f6a:led)
Another Friday in 'instructor' mode, this time with Steve T. All very enjoyable, however: I selected the outcrop style crag above the farm in Ogwen as an ideal starting point and rather enjoyed the short undistinguished climbs, despite the fact that my last Snowdonian climb was uber-classic Diagonal a month ago! The weather was disappointing, but the rain had stopped by the time I led the short VD on the left of the crag, demonstrating gear placements. Recess Left was an overgraded HS with a steep initial move leading to an easy groove, while Hollt Lydan was a longer route on the clean slabs further right. It has a rather tricky crux step right to gain a wider crack. After Grisiau, a polished staircase which leads to a smooth groove, the rain began in earnest (even though it had seemed to be clearing) so we evacuated and headed to the coast in search of sunshine. I tried to take the steep and vegetated walk up to Penmaenbach Quarry (on the side of Conwy mountain) as slowly as possible, mindful of saving energy for tomorrow's Race the Train. I have only climbed up here once before, and a fair amount of rebolting and cleaning has gone on since then. Kato is now a nice clip-up, rather 'slate-like' with neat edging up to an enjoyable flake. Probably no more than f5. National Disaster is trickier than it looks, on sloping holds with two technical moves round mild overlaps. Again, somewhat reminiscent of the slate quarries. Steve was satisfied with this, and I was still tired after the Rhinogs, so we settled for a short day. Probably worth a return trip to sample the longer routes on the upper levels.

Rhinog Traverse (Barmouth-Trawsfynydd)

Peaks: Craig y Grut, Diffwys, Crib y Rhiw, Y Llethr, Rhinog Fach, Rhinog Fawr, Clip, Craig Ddrwg, Moel Ysgyfarnogod, Foel Penolau, Diffwys, Moel y Gyrafolen (23m+/7000ft+)
Area: Y Rhinogau, Eryri
The Rhinogs are always billed as the roughest mountains and wildest terrain in Wales. This is true, but only really applies to the northern end beyond Rhinog Fawr (where I would amend the description to the roughest terrain in the UK, including Knoydart with which it is often compared). The full ridge traverse gives a fabulous and varied mountain day, well suited to a running approach. Peter had wanted to do it for years, and I have only done shorter versions of it in the past (indeed, this was only my fifth ever visit to the Rhinogs). It's quite a committing undertaking, and requires two cars. So, after meeting up, we began from the far side of Barmouth, jogged into town, then up the steep hill that leads to Dinas Oleu. A complex system of heathery paths then leads up to Barmouth Slabs and eventually, after much weaving around, gains the main ridge line which leads ultimately to an unnamed top near Bwlch Cwmmaria. The weather was great initially: bracing winds, blue skies, tremendous sea views down over Ardudwy. It was a little more threatening ahead, as dark clouds raced across Cader and covered the Rhinog ridge. We had decided on the harder and slightly less logical S-N direction because of the 40mph south-westerlies, but it was essentially a crosswind, and we had to use the wall that marks the crest of the ridge to shelter from the strong gusts. The ridge is superbly runnable, over Bwlch y Rhiwgyr and several subsidiary hills above remote Cwm Bodlyn to Craig y Grut then the first real summit: Diffwys, after 1.40 of running and a good 11-12k from Barmouth. Some mist and strong wind as we the terrain then becomes more dramatic and rocky. Excellent fast running down to a col then steeply up to the undistinguished highpoint of the range, Y Llethr. Then comes the scenic highlight and one of Wales' finest views - the high mountain lake of Llyn Hywel, with the slabs and ridges of Rhinog Fach rising beyond. Steep running down the screes gains a little ridge above the lake then a steep scramble with a head-crosswind battering us continually. I have a memory of doing the South Ridge (a mild rock climb) here, perhaps 24 years ago. Tendrils of mist added to the drama, then a little drizzle as we lost the path for the first time on the descent to Cwmhosan. This cost us time and energy: sliding down wet chimneys and flogging through Rhinog heather and scree until we gained the better path to Bwlch Drws Ardudwy, perhaps the best defined mountain col in Wales (it would be described as a 'Tor' in German!). A boggy crossing on a vague path leads to the tenuous onward route up Rhinog Fawr. This is quite a slog, but felt enjoyable as I still had good legs and felt fresh. We gained the top of Fawr a little over 3.5 hours after leaving Barmouth and were making very good time despite our error on the last descent. But, the difficult terrain lay ahead! Took a bearing on the summit in thick mist, but this cleared quite quickly on the looping descent to Llyn Du and the Roman Steps (a tricky scramble down to gain Bwlch Tyddiad). Then the character of the traverse changes and you enter the untracked and very awkward terrain of the Northern Rhinogs. Fortunately, Peter and I were in good spirits and equally matched in terms of pace for this hard section. Some running up to Llyn Morwynion, then the very awkward terrain and route finding through the canyons west of Craig Wion. The ridge is cut in numerous places by these 'canyons' that run laterally and so are unavoidable. They make for exhausting progress and complex route finding, through waist deep bracken, heather and boulders. Drasdo's description of a 'splendid mile of Celtic badlands' is as good as any. Eventually we gained flat marshy ground leading to the boulder field on Clip: this gave some welcome steep scrambling, as we took a direct line on rock straight to the cairn and views of Tremadog and Llyn. The end of the ridge was still miles away, and I was beginning to feel the first signs of fatigue as we ran over Bwlch Gwilym to Craig Ddrwg. Superb terrain past Llyn Corn and Du - boulder fields and open rock - then the sharp climb up Moel Ysgyfarnogod and some familiar terrain (I have been up these last two peaks before). Over the turreted and unique top of Foel Penolau, then the end of the ridge over Diffwys and Gyrafolen, with Trawsfynydd below. Tired now, after 6.5 hours of running and walking, we picked a truly appalling descent direct over Craig Fawr to the lake at Tyn Twll. Ferns above head height, brambles, boulders and hidden drops: I have done some nasty descents in my time but this must qualify as the worst ever. Ungrazed wilderness. We aimed for a copse and slightly less impenetrable vegetation, then followed a stream to gain a field and the road for a two mile run back to the car. After a pint in Llanuwchllyn, I began to look forward to my next Rhinog trip and a dramatic contrast in style and exertion: back to camp in Cae Gwyn with Rob tomorrow, followed by a ramble up to Llyn Hywel.

Castle Inn/Marian Bach climbing

Crag: Castle Inn
Routes: Wilderness Wall (f5a:led), Butterfly Blue (f4:led), Birthday Boy (f5a:sec), School Mam (f6a:led), Comeback Kid (f4:sec), Indian Summer (f6a+:sec)
Crag: Marian Bach
Routes: Route 1 (f4c:led), Route 3 (f5:led), Route 9 (f5c:led), Route 7 (f6a:led), Route 10 (f5c:sec), Route 13 (f5c:led), Route 14 (f6a:sec), Route 12 (f6a+:led*)
Marian Bach is a newly bolted crag, and as is the way with these things in the UK, not exactly a classic venue. However, it was better than I'd expected it to be: good rock in places and a handful of decent climbs. We started on the small crags at Castle Inn though, as it was only Hayley's second time climbing outside. The three routes on Wilderness Wall, slabby and relaxing, were ideal starting points and she completed her first ever lead with no problems. I then led the slightly overgraded School Mam on the main face: done many times before, a good route with technical climbing up to a steep section which is far easier than it looks. After a bite, we bushwhacked around to the hidden and secretive Marian Bach, a much quieter venue. The routes are a little vegetated and look a little loose, but seemed to be fairly sound. Route 3 is a bolted steep corner, rather naughty by UK standards, although it's not as if anyone else would ever have come here without the bolts. Good bridging, big holds. To the right is a bigger and much cleaner steep face: quite good limestone, with the best routes here. Route 9 was a surprisingly tricky wall between two cracks, while Route 7 is perhaps the best route here. It traverses left on blocky rock to a well-positioned arete and nice finish, a touch overgraded at f6a. Hayley was climbing very well, a natural, and having no problems: so I suggested she lead Route 10, another nice route on the vegetated slabby face to the right, with a tricky and delicate crux at the top. Finally, at the far right of the crag was a cleaned wall with an overhang. I led the enjoyable steep wall on good holds direct (Route 13), then did another decent route (14) to its right: a delicate traverse to a crucial foothold which allows the overhang to be passed to the upper wall, rather like a miniature version of Tremadog's Fang! Finished with a steep and tricky f6a+, then went back to Castle Inn in glorious sunshine, where Hayley led the arete and we both did the excellent Indian Summer (led before) on rough rock at a mildly technical f6a+. Then it was a quick drive for coffee in Mold before joining the run up Moel Famau.

Tour de Montlhery run

Our motel in Linas on the edge of Paris looked out across a surprising number of wooded hills, one of which is topped by the famous C13 Tour (Tower) of Montlhery. After a quick family sightseeing trip to Paris, I enjoyed a relaxed run through Linas and into the old walled town of Montlhery, finally working out a way to get up to the Tower, which was unfortunately closed but had far-reaching views.

Cote d'Azur road cycling

Road Cycling: Esterel-Agay-Corniche d'Or-Antheor-Esterel
Distance: 40k
This is one of the most scenic and glamorous rides anywhere in Europe. Sadly, I didn't have time to enjoy the superbly enjoyable loop that I devised in 2011 (via Cannes and the Col de Testanier) but had to settle for a ride down to Agay then along the coast to the most spectacular views beyond Antheor. The contrast of the deep blue sea and the towering red rocks of the Esterel is at its most impressive here. Warm evening weather, fantastic cycling.

Col de Vence road cycling

Road Cycling: Vence-Col de Vence-Vence
Distance: 30k
A regular feature on the 'race to the sun', Paris-Nice, this excellent climb takes you up into wild haute Provence territory and is a dramatic contrast with the bustle of the nearby coastal resorts. I only had an hour to get up and down, and had already run up Brec d'Utelle in the morning so the legs were not at their best. I would have loved to have completed the obvious loop around Coursegoules and Gourdon, but that would have taken far too long with the family enjoying cold drinks in Vence. So I settled for starting at the bottom of the town, then finding my way to the start of the climb (marked for cyclists with gradient and altitude every km, just like the big Alpine cols). It starts quite steeply through the top of Vence, then eases and straightens as it moves out into an arid, baking valley. Mid-afternoon on a hot day, with temperatures well into the 30s and not a breath of wind, this was desperately hot work. At the top of the first long drag, however, a hairpin provided some merciful relief and a blast of cooling sea breeze with the Med below. I was still dripping with sweat, however, despite the gentle gradient (7% typically). As the climb weaves higher, all traces of the Cote d'Azur disappear to be replaced by wild limestone scenery and great views over to the crag of St Jeannet, the Brec d'Utelle that I'd just run up, and the higher Maritime Alps. The road surface is perfect, and the cycling just ideal for tired legs: challenging but not too challenging! A lovely climb that came to an end too soon (still, at least 10km of constant uphill from Vence). I was up in 44m and got down in 16m (a brilliant descent with the Med in front the whole way) so stayed within my allotted hour for the outing.

Brec d'Utelle

Peak: Brec d'Utelle (1604m)
Area: Vesubie, Provence
This beautiful limestone peak represents something of a transition between the Provencal limestone hills to the south-west and the Maritime Alps further north. It is supremely runnable, offers incredible views as a result of that transitional location, and is poised directly above the exquisite perched village of Utelle. Rather surprising then that I'd never been up here before, but my proposed family day higher up the valley in my favourite St Martin Vesubie was vetoed by the democratic collective family unit. So we drove up the hairpins to Utelle as a shorter alternative. E and K came some of the way up the path joining the GR5, then I ran the rest. At first, this is steep as the path zig-zags up the hillside through woodland to gain height. It then levels off for superb running with views of Castel Gineste (reminiscent of Wyoming's Devils Tower) and the Maritime Alps ahead. Stunning clarity of light. All very runnable, so I quickly reached an obvious col on the ridge. From here, the route passes over to the other (western) side, giving new views of Lachens, Mounier and the peaks I've climbed above Castellane - Robion, Bernard etc. Better still, the onward path is cut into the side of the mountain - reminding me of the amazing Chemin d'Energie in Haute Tinee. As a result, the onward run was spectacular, a gently rising path leading to the spur of the Crete de 'Albarea. It then enters cool woods before another pronounced col below the Tete d'Escandolier. Steep zigzags, very hot work, lead to the ridge crest near the Petit Brec. I then left the GR5 for the surprise final scramble to the summit. This takes a short ridge to an initially intimidating looking spire of limestone. In reality, a delightful scrambling ascent weaves around taking optional pitches up to one or two unavoidable but easy chimneys. A short avoidable knife edge leads to a final scramble to the summit. Brilliant views of the Mercantour: Argentera, St Robert, Gelas, Ponset, Neiglier, Capalet and Bego the most notable peaks, all of which I have done (except Neiglier). The Med glistening silver to the south and the purple limestone of the Castellane peaks - ridge after ridge leading to Verdon west. I was up in a pleasing 54 minutes of running, but had very little time to get down to meet the family by the water fountain in Utelle's square by 12.20. So I pelted down the slopes, enjoying more unparalleled mountain running to get back in time for a huge lunch of local produce in the fantastic village restaurant. Thus fortified, I had just enough energy to head to Vence for a quick bike ride up into the clues of Haute Provence.

Esterel climbing

Crag: Gorge du Blavet
Routes: La Quatrieme Dimension (f4b:led), Elles se Rendant pas Compte (f4b:sec), La 205 a Gerard (f4b:sec), Sans Nom Six (f4b:led)
Crag: Cap Dramont
Routes: Moon Flower (f3+:sol), Let's Go (f3+:sol), RER (f3+:sol), Petit Pimouss (f3+sol), Right Arete (f3:sol), Left Crack (f3:sol), Left Slab (f3:sol), Right Slab (f3:sol)
On my last visit to Blavet, Vic and I climbed a route in the main gorge then pushed the grade to 6b+ at La Capelle. This was a little different: a family visit to the smaller crags on the little buttresses south of the main gorge. The crag we settled on had the typical Esterel ambience: always a delight. I led a nice little F4 for the children to try. Over a bulge to some typical Esterel pockets and a huge handlebar hold, Then up a crack to a steep finishing bulge. M got all the way to the final move, while E exhibited superb bridging technique! The routes either side were also pleasant, especially 'Gerard' up a nice juggy crack. I led one more slabby climb before we escaped the heat for a luxury picnic of roast chicken and peaches at the top end of the gorge. We then retired to have fun by the sea at Dramont, where I later ran round the wonderful coastal path to solo some familiar easy lines in the few minutes I had available: two on the lower 'path' crag, two on Pilier de Soleil (I've done every route on this crag I think), then some on the superbly rough easy slab above the sea facing the Ile d'Or.

Esterel 'triathlon'

As ever, the problem with staying in the Esterel is that there is too much to do! I'd already enjoyed my favourite early morning running loop via the Gorges de Perthus and Col de Mistral. But since I had the bike with me, I thought an informal 'triathlon' might be good (a 'quadrathlon', including rock climbing, might be a future possibility). A hint of the mistral in the air, so a cool morning outing before breakfast with incredible clarity of light for the time of year. I headed into the Esterel by bike, then climbed up to the Plateau d'Antheor, changed into running gear, and ran up Pic du Cap Roux via the fantastic contouring path that offers unparalleled views of the silvery med and red rocks above the Corniche d'Or. From the summit, crystal clear views to Gelas and the rest of the Maritime Alps. I ran down: a quick descent, then cycled east round the base of Cap Roux to the col and up Pic de l'Ours, which comes across like a 'mini Ventoux'. Hot, but not desperately so, and a long sequence of hairpins with brilliant views over Cannes. Sadly, access is barred to the top section of the summit road so I was restricted to the Col de Notre Dame just below to the top. From here, I cycled back via Saint Baume and went for an incompetent floundering swim to complete the 'triathlon'.

Col de la Madeleine/Col du Glandon cycling

Road Cycling: La Chambre-Col de la Madeleine-La Chambre-Col du Glandon-Lac de Verney (French Alps)
Distance/climb: 110k/3200m
Two ultra-classic cols in one day: a memorable ride through sacred cycling terrain and the main target of this year's very brief second foray onto the climbs of the Tour. I left La Chambre in perfect cycling weather - cool and sunny - for the massive 20k climb up the Madeleine. As with my previous cycling trip to the Alps in 2011, it is tremendously exciting to start up one of the iconic Alpine climbs: this is without question the greatest backdrop for any sporting event in the world. And although for me nothing quite matches climbing the peaks themselves, cycling up the cols provides almost equally memorable experiences. I spent the first 5k getting into some kind of rhythm, not easy as the Madeleine is quite tough from the start and does not provide any real respite on this steep southern side: any easing is only very temporary! That said, you can churn away at the 9% slopes and relax a little round the hairpins. Dozens of cyclists go up every day, and it was comforting to be able to overtake quite a few in this first section. Through the curiously named village of Le Planet, the climb eases slightly before kicking up quite sharply through the woods. The views begin to open out: down over the Maurienne valley and upwards to the broad slopes of the Madeleine. The ski resort of Longchamp is an unpleasant and jarring interlude, but it is quickly passed: above lies lovely meadows and a superb sequence of long hairpins to the col. Magnificent stuff, although I took a rather slow 1.40 to get up, mindful of the fact that the mighty Glandon lay in wait on the other side of the valley! The descent was, as expected, stunning. Quite technical and twisting with all the hairpins, but absolutely exhilarating with superb views in front. Through La Chambre then across to St Etienne on the other side of the Maurienne valley for a quick picnic lunch of pizza, ham and cheese, en famille, 1k up the Glandon. Then it was straight onto the second monster climb of the day: the Glandon, with a similar set of vital statistics to the Madeleine (ie over 20k constant climbing, 1600m of ascent!). It was now hot, and the lower section of the climb is only partially wooded. It was a desperate battle to find my rhythm at first, but eventually I got my second wind from the food and ploughed up towards the village and a very welcome 1.5k easy section. This was the only relaxed riding all day: just gently inclining. Then came the finale, up to a dramatic amphitheatre, with the best scenery of the day: a river valley left and towering rock walls and pinnacles above. Stupendous stuff, although marred slightly as I was soon attacked by a swarm of bees. One stung my back through the shirt, not too bad, but another got under my helmet and stung my bald pate. Not very pleasant as it buzzed around angrily below the helmet looking to strike again. However, it gave me the adrenalin surge I needed! Above, the road rears up into the infamous final 2k section of steep hairpins. Kate refused to drive, so I soldiered on in intense heat and a fair amount of discomfort (a combination of throbbing bee stings, tired legs and aching buttocks) to the col. I descended back to drive the family up the col! Then, after enjoying the stunning views back to the pleasingly distant Madeleine, indulged in the truly spectacular descent from the Croix de Fer down towards the amazing Lac de Grand Maison. This was fast and memorable, but leads to a brief climb before a perfect gentle contour above the lake leads to another plummeting and very fast descent. Above lurks an agonisingly painful final climb before another very long descent past Vaujany to Lac de Verney and the more familiar territory of the Oisans valley. Harder than my day over the Izoard and Vars in 2011 - 45k uphill with 11,000 feet of climbing.

Jura road cycling

Road Cycling: Cote des Rousses (Col de la Faucille), Jura
Distance/climb: 20k/500m
As was the case yesterday, this was not part of the schedule, but I realised my plans were too ambitious as we drove across the Jura in heavy rain and downscaled to this poor relation - the easy side of the Col de la Faucille. I had wanted to go up Semnoz from Annecy but realised I would just have to incorporate a short ride onto our onward route with Kate driving. I set off from the rather grim valley bottom town of Morez, in dank weather, with a steepish side road leading onto the road up the Cote des Rousses. The Rousses would make an ideal introduction to the bigger climbs, as it is fairly long (10k or so) but gentle throughout. Sadly, however, it is marred by heavy traffic: inevitably, as it is the main road through the Jura to Geneva. Indeed, we drove over it when the children were tiny infants ten years ago. In effect, the ride to Les Rousses represents the easier northern ascent of the Col de la Faucille above Gex and Geneva and, as such, it is a fairly frequent addition to the Tour. Low rumbles of thunder, tendrils of mist, drizzle and wet roads characterised my ascent, for which I was able to stay in the bigger ring throughout. Nice scenery, with alpine meadows and cowbells heralding our arrival into the real mountains higher up the climb. I continued some way up the very gentle slopes beyond Les Rousses but the rain got heavier here, and this section to the top of the Col de la Faucille is little more than a 'false flat' anyway.

Vosges road cycling

Road Cycling: Colmar-Wintzenheim-Cote de Cinq Chateaux-Ingersheim-Colmar (Vosges, Alsace)
Distance: 40k/500m
It would have been nice to have taken in the bigger Vosges climbs like the Grand Ballon, and that had indeed been my ambitious plan, but after a lengthy drive through gorgeous Alsatian villages time for a pre-dinner ride was limited. As a result, this was a very short outing but also a rather complex one - to the point that I'm not quite sure where I went! But after riding out from the centre of Colmar, some combination of the three villages of Ingersheim, Wintzenheim and Wettolsheim led me to the base of the Cote de Cinq Chateaux above Wintzenheim. This was taken by the Tour last week, and made an excellent little climb of 7k or so. After a very stressful drive from Belgium and a tricky ride out of the centre of Colmar it was a wonderful balm to enter the tranquil woods of the Vosges. The climb was a good mildy sustained effort and an excellent low-key aperitif for what I hoped would be a big day in the Alps on Friday. These Vosges climbs have a distinctive atmosphere of their own, thickly wooded with the occasional glimpse of side valleys and distant hills. Slovak graffiti for Sagan was interspersed with interesting Alsatian separatist slogans on the road.The gradient on the Cinq Chateaux stays at a fairly constant 7% or so, with numerous hairpins, so it is never too taking. The weather was humid and sunny, but not overly hot. After reaching the summit, I descended down to Ingersheim and along an unpleasantly busy main road to beautiful Colmar and a stereotypical Alsatian meal of quiche, choucroute, munster and pinot blanc.

Ardennes road cycling

Road Cycling: Huy-Mur de Huy, La Roche en Ardenne-Col de Haussire (Ardennes, Belgium)
Distance: 40k
The legendary Mur de Huy is the climax of the Fleche Wallonne, a spring classic in the Walloon Ardennes that is one of my favourite races. As we were passing en route to Arlon, I took the bike for a spin round the town and along the Meuse river. Some steep cobbles were a nice reminder of April's Tour of Flanders and led up to the right turn on to the Mur de Huy. This is hallowed turf: a steepish but comfortable initial section leads up to the infamous hairpin bend which ramps up to 25% on the left-hand side. Out of the saddle, I pushed on through the bend. The angle eases slightly but the hill stays relentlessly steep - punishing weakening cyclists on the pro race - until it reaches the chapel at the top. The 'Huy' logo is painted all the way up the route: great to add this iconic Walloon climb to the Flemish classic climbs I enjoyed so much in April. After lunch, we drove through lovely wooded hills to Roche en Ardenne, the Belgian Betws y Coed. After a walk round the town, I cycled along more cobbles to begin the Col de Haussire, ranked as Belgium's hardest climb. That is a fairly relative descriptor - as it just seemed a bit longer (6 or 7k) than the short but viciously steep climbs that feature on the Spring Classics. The Koppenburg, Muur, Patterberg and Mur de Huy all seemed harder to me, albeit far shorter. Still, it was a delightful quiet ascent in warm evening sunshine. It goes up cobbles then a steep tarmac street reminiscent of the famous St Roche on Liege-Bastogne-Liege, then curves very steeply left through dappled woodland to a church and short descent. Then more climbing to a final dip before a long 3k drag up a poorly surfaced road, beautifully tranquil, to the wooded summit.

Waun Fach fell race

Race: Waun Fach fell race (11.2k/610m)
Time/Position: 54.54 (4th from 50 [1st V40])
Quite unexpectedly, the descent down Y Grib (the 'Dragon's Back') turned into one of the best mountain running experiences I've ever had in 300+ races: all this from a little race in the Black Mountains with entries taken for £3 in a barn (infinitely preferable to the increasingly commercialised Snowdon race on the same day). I thought I'd been everywhere in the Welsh mountains, north and south, but I'd never been on this final ridge: the descent was superb. The race starts well, too, leaving Pengenffordd by the road and going up the bridleway through Rhiw Trumau to gain the main ridge. I've only been across the Black Mountains once or twice, so was pleased that the forecast torrential rain was passing us by. The ridge gives superb running, fast and relentless, over the steep forepeak of Pen Trumau and up into the mist to gain the second checkpoint on the summit of Waun Fach at 811m. I was feeling tired on the climb, my calves were very stiff after two days solid rock climbing, but as soon as I hit the contouring path from Waun Fach I felt far better and picked up the speed to Pen y Manllwyn. Here the mist peeled away revealing the superb descent ridge plummeting down to the valley over several sub-peaks. Fantastic stuff. Three leaders were out of sight ahead: but I just held on to fourth place up the amusing sting in the tail (a final climb back up to the finish on top of the ancient Craig Dinas hill fort). A small group of North Walians (Huw, Vic, Steve) turned out for this - the third fixture in this year's Welsh Champs, and a thoroughly enjoyable day was had by all. Beer and chips in Church Stretton broke the long journey home.

Dinas Mot climbing

Crag: Dinas Mot, Nant Peris
Routes: Diagonal (HVS 5a,5a,5a,4c:led p.1), The Cracks (HS 4a,4b,4a,4c:led p.1,3)
One of the all-time Welsh classics, Diagonal has been a glaring gap in my climbing CV for years. Sadly, given my lack of climbing recently I was in no position to lead the key pitch, but I did lead the first 5a pitch. This goes between two pinnacles to traverse enjoyably past a flake up to a crack behind a pinnacle. A huge sling on this, then a lovely delicate traverse across to a small stance. The next pitch is very good - excellent moves on small holds to a nut slot, then an exciting traverse on undercuts below the obvious overhang before a tough finishing groove. I found it fairly easy apart from the last move, a delicate bridge. A small stance in a great position. The third pitch is what this route is all about: a simply stunning piece of climbing up an immaculate steep slab. A delicate traverse leads to a series of delightfully elegant moves up a vague groove on perfectly positioned small pockets and positive little holds. I barely noticed the famous mantel shelf: it was all absorbing and excellent. Incredibly we found the entire route more or less dry: incredible because it had rained very heavily all night and much of the morning. The final pitch was a bit damp, mind, and despite the fact that it is theoretically the easiest pitch (technically) on the route, most climbers would (I imagine) find it the hardest. I certainly did in my weak current state. A dynamic and very strenuous initial layback leads to a ledge and rest. Then comes a desperate finish, using jams on the left and an ungainly bridge to gain the top: it looks short and innocuous from below but really delivers a classic sting in the tail (in common with virtually all the other classic routes on this crag!). The usual tricky ab down a very wet Western Gully, before we headed up the Cracks (one of the first big routes I did in Snowdonia, 1991 perhaps?). I merged the first two pitches, which give enjoyable slabby climbing up to a final crack. A traverse (wet today) leads to a move up a steepening, then the crack left of the obvious corner taken by Lorraine (which we did by mistake in our youth). I led a short third up the tricky move off the huge pinnacle, and Vic led the nice crack and final awkward (infamous) mantel. Tiring now, we abbed down the drier (but now alarmingly debris-filled) Eastern gully, and tried to get some rest before tomorrow's Welsh Champs fell race in South Wales!

Moelwyns climbing

Crag: Clogwyn yr Oen, Moelwynion
Routes: Crossover (HS 4b,4b:led p.1), Pinky (VS 4b, 4c:led p.1), Saline Solution (HVS 5b:sec)
Crag: Clogwyn y Bustach, Moelwynion
Routes: Flake Wall (HVS 5a:sec)
An opportunity to enjoy some of the more esoteric routes in the Moelwynion. I've climbed on these crags a lot over the years, and have done most of the classics at HVS and under. But a few gaps remained, and it is always good for boosting confidence: with its solid rock, easy climbing and good protection. As I've only led a handful of pitches all year, I began with Crossover, which takes the counter line to the neat HS of Orange Outang, done a few years ago. A clean groove led up to a wet section (not surprisingly, after lots of rain yesterday). This gave slightly dirty climbing up a steeper diagonal crack (taking me up most of pitch 2 at 4b). I belayed on a small ledge and Vic led a short but steep final wall which leads to scrambling. Not a bad route, but probably only worthwhile if you've done everything else! After a bite, I led the superb first pitch of Pinky in hot sunshine. I last did this 21 years ago. It is quite delightful: a slab of rough rock, steep at first then gently inclining and dotted with deliciously positive pockets. I thoroughly enjoyed picking my way up the slab, just what I needed. The pitch is long (almost 40m) and ends with a short steep wall: this takes a little thought but a neat move on small holds gains the stance. Vic then led the excellent short pitch of Saline Solution, which takes the headwall left of Pinky's second pitch crack. This gets very little traffic, I suspect, but was a perfectly clean and superbly rough sheet of Moelwyn rock. Typical Moelwyn climbing too: little pockets and small ledges and flakes. Good moves throughout, with a tricky 5b crux moving left then right to gain finishing jugs. Slightly overgraded, but a neat pitch. We then traversed right and finished up the last section of the Pinky crack (the surprisingly steep crux). After lunch, we headed up to the infrequently visited Clogwyn y Bustach - the unheralded and secretive fourth Moelwyn crag. In fact, it's one of the most impressive pieces of rock of the group: short but perfectly formed. Flake Crack is the obvious line of the crag and gives a superb, yet unheralded pitch: varied and hugely enjoyable. The eponymous flake goes delicately to a step across to the main face. Then a steep groove, climbable on the outside up good holds, leads to a lovely traverse. This looks hard from below, but hidden ledges make it fairly simple. Cracking stuff, and absorbing to second too. An easy rough wall to finish, recuperating with a pint in the Foelas.

The Druid fell race

Race: The Druid (5m/1200ft)
Time/Position: 36.04 (6th from 90)
Perhaps the best of the summer evening Clwydian races, but it has been three years since I've been able to race it. My time was almost a minute slower this year than 2011, yet conditions were near perfect: dry underfoot, warm but not too hot. Spent most of the race with Jim from Helsby, going past him after the steps up to the summit of Foel Fenlli, staying clear for the very narrow and always superb descent along the rim of the hillfort poised high above the Vale of Clwyd, then losing out to his superior pace on the main descent back to Llanferres. Once again finished at the back of a small group of runners, lacking the speed to pick it up at the end.

Tal y Fan fell race

Race: Tal y Fan fell race (13k/2600ft/AM)
Time/Position: 1.15.01 (5th from 44)
There are at least two other races (Gladstone and Penmaenmawr) that use some of the same paths round the northern fringe of the Carneddau, but I think this race makes the best use of the terrain: a really enjoyable and runnable event. After a family morning in Bodnant, I joined a small field leaving the Rowen village carnival to take in the brutally steep lane that heads past the hostel to join the old bridleway leading past the farm house to the normal route up Tal y Fan from below Bwlch y Ddaefaen. I reached the summit with a small group of other runners in around 35 minutes, then concentrated on staying with them for the long but gradual descent down to the stone circle at Cae Coch. This is wonderful terrain, wild but surprisingly runnable and fast in these relatively dry conditions. Once we hit the coastal path, with its great views over Allt Fawr and the Orme, I was able to push on a bit and soon found myself up with a group of four runners. We were all well behind Jez, who won easily, but well ahead of everyone else. At times, I moved up to 4th and then 3rd as the race takes in some very familiar tracks (the ancient paths above Llangelynin Old Church being some of my favourite places anywhere). But once we regained the steep tarmac descent I lacked the leg speed and sprint finish (as ever!) to pull back any places: ending at the back of the four-man group.

Craig Dinas climbing

Crag: Craig Dinas, Betws y Coed
Routes: Gull's Nest Crack (S 4a:led), The Nurgler (VS 4b:sec), Main Wall Climb (VS 4c:sec)
The final part of a long but very intermittent campaign to visit the most obscure crags around the Lledr and Conwy valleys. As is often the case, this venue's unpopularity is slightly baffling. It is quite impressive, faces south, has good rock reminiscent of nearby (vastly more popular) Carreg Alltrem and is only a short walk from the car park. But a bushwacking ascent through head-high ferns and thorn bushes confirms that not many people come here. The classic of the crag is The Nurgler, a VS that takes a good line right up the most impressive part of the cliff. Gull's Nest Crack, my lead, is an earlier climb up the crag's most obvious feature, and also forms the first pitch of The Nurgler. It's a strong line - a wide and fairly steep crack between the main face and a semi-detached pinnacle. Some vegetation, but good rock and nice climbing. The second pitch weaves up the face via a fun traverse over two ribs: this enables an obvious overlap to be overcome. Then comes a bit of vegetation before a slabby and exposed traverse leads to an obvious finishing groove further left. Nice climb. We abbed off and climbed Main Wall in temperatures nudging into the high 20s: felt like one of our Provencal trips. Main Wall Climb felt a little like a first ascent. Sadly the rope jammed as Vic pulled them in, so in effect I was soloing for the first 20ft - which contains the hardest sequence of moves on the route, steep and thought-provoking. I released the rope, then enjoyed a juggy romp up to a tricky move through a bottomless groove. Another good climb, with more opportunities to savour the superb views (some of the best in Eryri) down the Lledr and across to Siabod, although our very limited time (2.5 hours) was now over.

Penbarras bike loop

Road cycling: HK-Mold-Nercwys-Maeshafn-Bwlch Penbarras-Llanferres-Grianrhyd-HK
Distance: 55k
A short final training ride before taking the bike to the Ardennes, the Vosges and the Alps. Far too short, really, but time was limited. I took in the new Flintshire 10k route from Mold up through Nercwys then up the very steep double climb to Maeshafn. I then dropped down to Cadole and took in Bwlch Penbarras (for the third time in three days) - cool and windy. Met Rich at the Druid for a pint and sandwiches, then headed back (now in warm sunshine) via Llanarmon, Grianrhyd and Treuddyn.

Buckley handicap

Race: Buckley trail handicap (4.5m)
Time: 27.39
A nice concept, and one the club hasn't done for a number of years. John organised us all by time, with me setting off second to last - 30 seconds behind Steve T and 30 seconds ahead of Jez. Obviously, the idea is for everyone to finish at more or less the same time after the 'handicaps' are applied - and this was more or less the case. A good 4.5 mile off-road trail route, flat out round the hilly fireroads on the side of Moel Famau. Starting towards the back has the advantage that you are not being chased down (except by Jez!) but the disadvantage that you inevitably start too fast. I caught Steve as we headed back west towards the ridge, then went past a few others to finish 4th with the 2nd fastest time (ie not improving my starting position). Then came a pleasant pint in the Collie to escape the horse flies.

Moel Siabod fell race

Race: Moel Siabod (9km/2300ft)
Time/Position: 56.01 (15th from 111)
One of those events I have never got round to doing, partly because I am often away on holiday this time of year. I've always wanted to try to get a decent time for this classic up-and-down route, though, as it leaves Capel Curig from the bridge by the A5, touches the cairn and heads straight back down. It was a beautiful day after early rain - deep blue skies and fluffy clouds, warm. I climbed reasonably well, touching the cairn in 37 minutes. Sadly, I descended like an invalid and lost well over a minute on most of those nearby as I reached the summit. Superb views of the Snowdon group, but not much time to enjoy them as I began my slow descent. My ankle still has a weakness after Jura, and I went over on it immediately in the boulder field near the summit. As a result I found it hard to relax and let go, even on the grassy descent lower down. I lost a couple of places and took a slow 19 minutes to get back to Capel. A dip in the river, followed by superb goulash and sandwiches on the sun-drenched showfield after the race.

Maeshafn climbing

Crag: Maeshafn
Routes: Shattered Crack (S:sh), The Arete (VS 5a:sh), Sling (HS 4a:sh), Dandylion (HS 4b:sh), Elephant Crack (S 4a:sh), Rambler (HS 4a:sol)
An early morning run in warm sunshine up Moel Findeg then down to Maeshafn to pick up the original Beast race route. Up to Bryn Alyn then back via the Big Covert. I picked up my sac of climbing gear and extended the run (burdened now!) down to the crag for a few shunted routes. I've done all these routes dozens of times but just went up and down a few old favourites before a short bouldering session and jog back to the village.