Sgurr a'Mhadaidh

Peak: Sgurr a'Mhadaidh (918m/3012ft)

Area: Cuillin, Skye
Unlike all our previous trips to the Highlands at this time of year, weather luck was not with us this week. It was far from a washout, but it was cold: too cold to execute my plans to explore the bits of the Cuillin ridge that I missed in 1993. This was apparent again this morning. I planned to do a big chunk of the ridge, and got up very early to do just that. But after parking in Glen Brittle and running up to Coire a'Ghreadaidh (again quite gentle so very quick progress) it became obvious quite quickly that the weather would force a downscaling. From the top of the lower corrie, a steeper rise leads to a river crossing then a pull into an upper cwm. Atmospheric again, with mist swirling around the crags above and a few teams already on their way down! I decided not to go for the traverse of Mhadaidh, opting instead for the safe option of the steep screes that lead to the tiny pass of An Dorus ('the door': very similar to the kind of narrow 'breche' you see in the Southern Alps). The wind howled through this gap, and I grappled with all my spare clothes. The route out of the gap was tricky initially, soaking rock and a windchill (according to the mountain weather forecast) of -15C! It was cold on the fingers to say the least, but above this little pitch the route to the summit eases considerably to a series of ledges which then led to enjoyable but cold and wet scrambling to a very windy summit (73 minutes from Glen Brittle). At that moment, the wind tore a hole in the mist revealing superb views of a black and forbidding Sgurr a'Ghreadaidh, and Sgurr Thuilm. I had my winter climbing gloves, down jacket and waterproofs on, and was still cold. My ancient fell running shoes were OK on the wet gabbro, not so good on the wet basalt, but nothing is. The little pitch to An Dorus was tricky, and an abseil rope was in situ on the Greadaidh side. It was raining too, so I decided to abandon even my worst case 'fall back' option and not bother with Sgurr a'Ghreadaidh. Instead, I beat a prudent retreat from An Dorus back to Glen Brittle. Very good, fast running: back at the cottage in Glendale before 11am in time for a venison platter at the Red Roof cafe.

Am Basteir

Peak: Am Basteir (934m/3064ft)
Area: Cuillin, Skye
This peak is an impressive blade of rock when seen from Sgurr nan Gillean and also has an alluring name which has traditionally been translated as 'the executioner'. On my last proper visit to Skye, in 1993, I clearly remember a 30 second clearance in an appalling week of weather as we sat on the tiny summit of Gillean. Am Basteir looked good then, but it's taken me 22 years to come back (it rained continually that week in 1993!). This was just one of my usual short early morning outings, adopting a lightweight running approach with small sack and fell running shoes. The weather wasn't great, a cold north-westerly put the air temperature at 1C on the ridge, with a considerable windchill. Not ideal for scrambling. The path up towards Coire a'Bhasteir from Sligachan is just gently inclining and superbly runnable. I made very rapid progress, gaining the spur in 20 minutes. This broad spur is not easy to negotiate, with tenuous paths running between small crags, but it leads below Pinnacle Ridge to the atmospheric Coire a'Bhasteir. In these conditions of drizzle and swirling mist, it borders on intimidating. The onward route is a little tricky, and I had to downclimb a gully at one point to pick up the main path which is obvious once you are on it. This leads via long scree zigzags up to the Bealach a'Bhasteir: a tight col between Gillean and Am Basteir. Visibility was quite bad and the rock was soaking as I embarked on the East Ridge of Am Basteir. This is easy, just shattered sloping shelves and scree, but quite neatly defined, and leads to the 'bad step'. This is steep on the crest, and I had no wish to reverse what looked like 4b moves on wet rock in my damaged Mud Claws. I traversed sloping and soaking gabbro shelves to the left sounding out a feasible descent, eventually locating an easier downclimb about 20ft below the crest: steep but with good holds. It's then just a short jog up a fairly narrow continuation ridge to the top: very cold, shifting mist with the odd view of the Bhasteir tooth emerging from the mist and rain. It was nice to be on the main Cuillin ridge in these conditions: nobody around. A quick descent, very easy to reclimb the bad step, led to the bealach. Then good scree running down to a cold and wet corrie floor. Fine running all the way back to Sligachan: less than three hours in total, so back at our cottage before lunch.

Beinn Odhar

Peak: Beinn Odhar (901m/2956ft)
Area: Tyndrum, Southern Highlands
An ideal way to break the journey north, this Corbett rises above Tyndrum and lends itself to a short, sharp run. After a night in Dumbarton, we had breakfast at the Real Food cafe, then I set off from the A82 in perfect sunny conditions, ploughing diagonally up the steep slopes (too steep to be runnable) above the road to eventually pick up the broad south ridge much higher up. There is a semblance of a path up this, but this hill is another illustration of the pull that Munros exert. It is only just below the mark, extremely accessible, but I had it to myself in stunning weather. After a short narrowing of the now runnable ridge, a lochan is gained, before steeper boulder fields lead to the summit. Great views over Beinn Dorain, its more illustrious neighbour (which I ran up in torrential rain this time last year). Indeed, the views across the entire Southern Highlands were excellent: Ben Lui, Cruach Ardrain and Ben Cruachan were particularly notable. I had one hour (in total) at my disposal, so ran flat out down the south ridge to the West Highland Way, treating the subsequent run back to Tyndrum and the family as a mini speed session.

Nant Ffrancon climbing

Crag: Craig Braich Ty Ddu, Carneddau
Routes: Decameron Rib (VS 4a,4b,4a:led p.1,2), Cuckoo Groove Direct (VS 4c,4a:led p.2), Route 2 (S:led p.1)
This collection of crags has never been popular, even though they are not far above the A5. I did a few routes here with Tim in 2002, and did the scramble up the broken face above a few times as a teenager. As so often, the routes are good but it's a downward spiral: they get left out of selective guides, nobody goes there, the paths fall into obscurity and the routes get vegetated. Meanwhile the polish on the classics gets worse. I always like doing something different, so persuaded Vic to join me for the awkward traverse over multiple shallow heathery gullies to get to Decameron Rib, probably the most obvious and eye-catching line here (although the vast majority of visits to this crag are for Pinnacle Ridge). Rather cold, cloudy and windy as I started the first pitch, up an awkward crack splitting the rib left of the deep groove that marks the route out from below. There are actually numerous options for this first pitch, but I enjoyed this way, which seemed the cleanest and most frequently travelled (all relatively speaking, however) - up to a pinnacle, then a tricky move up to a long flat hold and a couple of saplings to a small stance below the roof. Vic led off up pitch two but didn't fancy the move below the roof. So we swapped leads and I edged along good footholds to a committing move round the bulge below the roof. A perfect little sidepull and a skip right allows for another sideways move to gain a little ledge in the bottomless groove. Good gear here, but the continuation crack was sadly vegetated and dirty: very likely the first ascent this year. Straightforward climbing, bridging to avoid the plantlife, led to a dodgy pinnacle, then more interesting climbing to a small stance (too low, but I was keen to avoid drag). Above, the third pitch takes a very pleasant slab up to a huge sculpted flake and a finish up a pinnacle - in the sunshine now, warm and welcome. A nice VS, deserves far more traffic than it gets. We abbed off down the gully to the right for a sunny lunch, enjoying superb views over Nant Ffrancon to Y Garn and Foel Goch. A slog up another gully, wet and unpleasant, led to the next buttress up. I'd been here before, for Route 2, but we went for the eye-catching line of Cuckoo Groove. As it happens, a cuckoo was calling (and flying around) as Vic led the first pitch. The crux comes immediately: a good 5a move, awkwardly stepping off a flake on to a very steep, slightly impending wall. Small holds and smaller footholds until a finger crack can be grabbed. Then good climbing to a stance in the groove. My pitch was supposedly 4b: it led down and right on excellent rock, but the gear was sparse. I made two committing moves up to a footledge, got some small wires in behind a thin flake, then made another move into the groove above. It looked very committing indeed: reasonable climbing but all the cracks are hopelessly shallow seams. Basically no gear, and the arête above looked similarly committing. Reminded me of the second pitch of Grey Arete: far too early in the season having led virtually no trad pitches all year! So after a rather harrowing downclimb, I continued up the direct version of the route. This isn't in the old guidebook, presumably because it makes the route too disjointed (indeed, the HVS line is a bit contrived as it seeks difficulty by moving away from the main groove line). But the continuation groove still gave a nice pitch of about 4a, up quartz holds and good flakes. I assume this direct line up the groove was not a first ascent! We finished with the excellent Route 2, which I did with Tim in 2002. It's one of the best Severe pitches in Eryri, but completely unheralded. I led a short pitch one over blocks and pinnacles, then (tired after what had gone before) followed Vic up an awkward crux, which involves a very steep thrutch to stand on a pinnacle, then an off-balance reach to exit a wide crack. Above, the delightful upper wall runs to superb jugs and flakes on immaculate rough rock.

Rhyl 5k

Race: Rhyl 5k (North Wales Championships)
Time/Position: 17.57 (6th from 104 [2nd V40])
The fact that no runners went under 17 minutes this evening suggests that the headwind in the last 2k must have made a bit of a difference to the times. I was almost a minute slower than I'd hoped for, and over a minute down on my PB. After jogging round the junior race with E (this is an ideal family event for me, so close to St Asaph), I set off in a small group of around 10 lead runners out to the west, then around for a long run along the prom with tailwind to the turn near Rhyl golf course. I made up a few places on a difficult run-in, with quite a strong headwind. Felt sluggish throughout, but enjoyed the race - my first 5k for quite a while.

Penmaenbach climbing

Crag: Penmaenbach, Conwy
Routes: Big A55 Arete (f6a+:led), Pendulum Corner (f5+:sec), Agent Orange (f5+:led), Y Clip Aur (f6a:sec)
We replenished some of the energy lost on this morning's long run over the Carneddau with bacon sandwiches at the Aber cafe. It was windy at the Sychnant pass, and this crag is rather exposed, so probably not the ideal choice particularly as the lines we started with are the highest in the quarry, with great views over the sea and Orme. I'd tried to find the A55 arete line last year, but ended up on the 6c+ Whole of the Law instead! Steve, Hayley and I loosened our legs from the morning run on the longish walk over to the crag, and found the true arete line easily. It gives a lovely 22m climb, but as is often the case with the easier coastal sports routes, was overgraded. Nice moves over an overlap give access to a delicate and absorbing tapering slab. I stuck religiously to the arete, which might make it almost f6a, but it would very likely get 5+ at the most in Provence (certainly not the f6a+ or even f6b given). A great crux at the top on little holds, shuffling out to a sloping foothold on the arete itself. The wind was a problem, given the delicate nature of the climbing, and my fingers were very cold. Hayley seconded then led the obvious corner line of Pendulum Corner. Steve followed, and I went up with the rope above. Another strong line, a very enjoyable juggy romp with some light bridging as it steepens towards the top, although dramatically overgraded again (f4+ at the most if it was in France). We were getting cold, but the weather stayed dry (despite black clouds and a few spots of drizzle) so I led the obvious steep slab which runs below the A55 Arete. This gives another excellent easy route. Elegant climbing, even in the wind, with delightful moves up the steep slab on sharp holds and ledges (f5). We tried to get out of the wind on the smaller slab where we'd climbed last summer. I went for the 6c crack line by way of an appropriate finale to a long day. This goes easily up to a hard crux which was rendered desperate by the cold wind. I couldn't feel my fingers, which was a real problem as the crux depends on little finger jams and tiny two finger holds. Just ripples for the feet. I made two attempts, and reached the crucial flat hold to clip the final bolt on the second attempt. But my attempts to smear failed, and I slipped again. It should go reasonably easily in warmer and calmer weather though. We finished with the easy f6a to its left instead. A varied, enjoyable and tiring day.

Carneddau traverse

Peaks: Bera Mawr, Carnedd Gwenllian, Foel Grach, Carnedd Llewellyn, Carnedd Dafydd
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
A really enjoyable jog over the first half of the 1000m peaks race. I've done the race three times and it has always been one of my favourites. I did the old route (avoiding Glyder Fawr) in 2008 and 2009 (when I came 8th in appalling conditions: it made the BBC news that day!), and the new route (when I had a much better 4:45 run) in 2011, my Welsh Champs year. Simon and Steve invited me along for the reccie alongside Andy and Hayley. It was a great convivial crowd, but sadly I was unable to remember some of the micro route details after we'd run from the coast to the path above Aber Falls into Cwm Afon Goch. I couldn't recall which gully to take, so we went slightly too far up the cwm and headed up the hillside direct to Bera Mawr emerging just above the shallow valley which I recognised from the race. So, no harm done. From here, we crossed between Bera Mawr and Bera Bach into a strong headwind with the mist down. This was good for the reccie, typical conditions and challenging navigation: we ran on a bearing through this famously featureless terrain, just under the new checkpoint at Yr Aryg, skirting Carnedd Gwenllian summit, then picking up the main Carneddau path to the shelter on Foel Grach. After a bite to eat and some extra layers, we ploughed onwards into a strong and cold headwind all the way to the summit of Llewellyn, one of my favourite places. The mist cleared briefly allowing views over Ysgolion Duon and beyond. Very cold for the time of year. Superb running, enjoyed by all the crew, along the ridge to Dafydd, pointing out the 'racing lines' where I could. A steep descent down to Bodesi and our 'second car' in Ogwen completed an enjoyable morning outing. We replenished some calories in the excellent Hen Felin (Aber) cafe before embarking on the second part of the day: climbing at Penmaenbach.

Llanddulas climbing

Crag: Llanddulas Cave
Routes: Mind Light (f6a+:led), Karmic Wind (f6a+:led), Karmic Wind Direct (f6b:sec), Poet Lariat (f6a:led), Not Runout Groove (f5+/6a:sec), Runout Groove (f6b:sec)
After our brief rain-soaked visit here last week, I realised there was some untapped potential so headed back there with Vic in high winds on a brief evening visit. Gusts up to 40mph, so we hoped that the cave and north-east aspect might protect us. It worked a treat, and it was largely calm as I led Mind Light, the first of two longish (20m) routes at f6a+ left of the main cave visible from the A55. The rock is a rather smooth white limestone, mottled with lichen. It runs to rather flat holds and the climbing is quite a bit harder and steeper than it looks from below. Mind Light takes a vague groove heading diagonally right on reasonable holds. Nice flowing climbing up to a good rest on a big footledge. Then steep moves go straight up to the finishing crack, where the position of the lower-off means that the crux is right at the top. I had to leave the crack and make a move or two on small holds up the smooth wall at the top to reach the chains. Satisfyingly smooth lead and a good route. Its companion, Karmic Wind, is a bit harder as it has a distinct crux at half height. After easy, quite juggy climbing low down, I misread the route and went too far right. It actually goes up to the left: a nice sequence of long reaches and small nicks for the feet. Had to steady myself as I moved across to the right line but did the moves cleanly and quickly. Easier and enjoyable climbing leads to the top. The direct route seemed easier, despite the grade, and I continued through with rope above on a private little eliminate of my own making: good training. The weather was clearing nicely, so we headed to the sunshine on the west-facing lower crag (Forgotten Sun area). Sadly, this meant we bore the brunt of the wind, although it was easing slightly. I've done a few routes here before, so led a 6a that I haven't ticked. It was a poor route. Flat holds and awkward climbing up to a mantel to a grassy ledge. Then more sloping handholds and polished footholds lead to a tricky finish. We finished off with the two lines up the groove. The indirect, which I've led before, is awkward and not very good, and takes a weird circuitous line to gain the obvious 'HVS' groove above. Runout Groove itself may be more technical, and gets a 6b grade, but feels easier and takes a more logical direct line up to the groove on small but less polished and more positive holds.

Penmaenhead/Llanddulas climbing

Crag: Penmaenhead, Colwyn Bay
Routes: The Long Run Home (f6a:led), Go with the Flow (f6a:led), Statement of Twilight Years (f6b:led), Fixe Inox City (f6b+:sec*)
Crag: Llanddulas Cave
Routes: Lemon Crunch (f5:sec)
A frustrating evening dodging heavy showers. It had been dry all day in Colwyn Bay (but raining in Chester). Arriving at the crag, that all reversed - a heavy and prolonged shower saw us sheltering under trees then waiting for the routes to dry. Luckily, they dry quickly so we headed up to the Expressway wall. The 6a on the far left is even closer to the A55 than the other routes: to the point that you can't hear yourself think! It was a bit damp in places, but gives nice climbing up a steep wall on small juggy holds to a badly placed second clip which I shamelessly steadied myself on. From here, easier climbing up the arete leads to big flat holds and the finish. Nice rough rock, but not quite as good as the routes further right. We moved through the mud to the Flowstone Wall, where Hayley backed off the slabby 6a (Go with the Flow) in damp conditions. I led through, finding it more technical than I remembered from previous ascents, perhaps because of the damp (and associated muddy feet and hands). The crux involves a pinched little stalactite and the rock above is hard to read from below, but leads to a great pocketed hold. I was keen to push the grade a bit as the rock was drying, so went for the 6b (Statement of Twilight Years) further right. Very muddy at the base, so cleaning the shoes and hands became an issue. Some damp hindered progress too, all of which wasn't ideal as the first clip is a long way up. From a ledge though, some good holds and long reaches lead to the clip, then some excellent technical and fingery climbing often involving high steps and intricate footwork. It is never desperate or overly strenuous, just off-vertical and lowish in the 6b grade. A satisfying onsight lead up small positive edges and flat holds, moving right to the lower-off. I took the opportunity to try the 6b+ to its right, which goes quite easily to a desperate final move which spat me off. A far more disjointed line: not as good as the easier but more sustained and continuous 6b. Hayley then led the f5 as the rain started again, so we left the crag. It was very early, so we parked in Llanddulas and walked up to the cave, a venue I've only visited once before. It was wet, even the subterranean routes inside the cave were seeping. Further right, the wall of white limestone looked extremely inviting but was damp, bordering on wet. Hayley picked her way up Lemon Crunch at f5, an absorbing task in these conditions - wet and slippery all the way up, but well bolted for a change. I had a look at the steeper routes further right, but they were far too wet and by now it was raining again so we slithered down the muddy paths back to the car.

Thurstaston MT race

Race: Thurstaston Multi-Terrain Challenge (6m)
Time/Position: 38.38 (15th from 143 [3rd V40])
I blew up disastrously on this race last year, really suffering in the last mile having got the pacing wrong. A complete contrast tonight: thoroughly enjoyed the excellent course, but started far too slowly, found myself well off the pace and finished 90 seconds slower than 2014. Perhaps next year I will finally pace it correctly! It's a great race, genuinely multi-terrain. A heavy shower passed over just before the start, but a very strong cross/headwind made life predictably tricky for the initial two mile run along the beach. Black clouds billowing over the Dee estuary and the Welsh hills. I was very conservative along the beach, but it is good fun skipping through the stones and deciding whether to opt for the wet sand. The route heads gently uphill through a housing estate before dipping into the woods and a rollercoaster ride along twisting paths and steep steps. All good fun. I was feeling pretty good, but this was probably just a result of my slow pace. After another tarmac section, the finish is along the seemingly endless Wirral cycle path that heads back to the reserve centre via some fields. Picked up a prize for 1st V40 but only by default!

Eglwyseg climbing

Crag: Pinfold, Eglwyseg
Routes: Toccata (VS 5a:sec), Phallic Tower (HVS 5a:sec), Marnie (HVS 4c:sec), Heloma Durum (f6a+:led), Calefaction (VS 4c:sec), Auto da Fe (S 4a:led)
I rarely do trad limestone these days, so Pinfold is not the ideal venue. But it is a lovely silent valley and I have happy memories of trips here in the early 90s (when it was a bit less polished). It's still a quiet place though, and we had the entire valley to ourselves on this Bank Holiday. Vic led old favourite Toccata to begin. I remembered this as a rather stiff VS, and my memory proved reliable! A polished and insecure start on slippery footholds leads to a jutting block in the crack. Overcoming this is supposedly the crux but actually gives an easy move on big holds. Phallic Tower had an insecure start, with all the action taking place at ankle damaging height, as is usual on this crag. So I was happy to remain passenger. Once the phallic tower is gained, the route goes easily up blocky limestone to the top. Marnie is top end HVS, not far off E1 5a. A hard start up an awkward wall leads to a step right into a lovely looking clean hanging groove. Once established in this, the route becomes easier - but the crack in the rather smooth groove is thin and not especially helpful. Very strong line though, and good climbing. Further left, beyond the gully, I led a semi-sports climb (two bolts) up the smooth wall right of the old HVS Exostosis. This was short, and lacked independence, but had a neat and quite technical (f6a+) move up the steep wall by the second bolt. A steep VS, Calefaction, held no memories for me, rather surprising. Quite tough for the grade, it goes up a crack to a small overhang. From a big undercut, you reach up for a nice jug, then expect to find another higher up. Instead, you have to make do with a flattish hold. I finished with a lead of an easy Severe up double cracks that I have done before.

Sussex run

Staying in Eastbourne for a wedding, I left the hotel on the seafront for a morning run to find distinctly unusual south coast conditions of driving rain and strong wind. I ran along the seafront into the headwind, dropping down to a tree-lined gravel path directly above the sea for a while. I continued west to pick up the start of the South Downs Way. I entered the mist after a few feet of climbing and felt at home - I might have been in the Moelwyns above Blaenau Ffestiniog rather than Beachy Head. I ran along the grassy clifftop path for a while but was wet and couldn't see a thing, so sprinted back to the hotel for a mini speed session.

Three Peaks fell race

Race: Three Peaks fell race, Yorkshire (38km/5300ft/AL)
Peaks: Pen y Ghent (691m), Whernside (728m), Ingleborough (723m)
Time/Position: 4.08 (258th from 1000)
As I'd only done a couple of two hour runs in training, having concentrated (as usual) on short road runs all winter, I knew my options were limited today. Given the lack of mileage and recent weeks away from running, my only chance was a slow, steady plod all the way round, which is exactly what I did. Great training for the forthcoming hill running season though, and a classic route which marked its 61st anniversary this year. I last did the famous circuit in early May 1988, as an 18-year-old student hillwalker. It took me over eight hours (which I seem to remember being quite pleased with, as the normal 'challenge time' for walkers is 12 hours!). So despite my shamefully slow pace today, at least it was half my teenage time at well over double the age! After several weeks of perfect spring weather and unbroken sunshine, it was particularly unlucky to be starting in steady rain from Horton in Ribblesdale. A gentle plod up the runnable tracks to Pen y Ghent, then we were into the mist and bitter windchill as we climbed above 600m. Dibbed on the summit checkpoint, then an excellent descent - first grass then tracks across Horton Moor led to a very long almost level run over several miles of open country to High Birkwith. Heavy rain at times on this section, with the second peak Whernside largely obscured by mist but disconcertingly distant. More very runnable terrain led to wet cobbled tracks, now in the Ribble valley, and eventually a long road section to the Ribblehead viaduct. It did occur to me how good this would have been if I was in marathon training and had the legs for it. As it was, a slow plod had to suffice. The infamous slog up Whernside was something of a relief as a result. In fact, I started to make up some places and really enjoyed the very steep finish up the eastern slopes. Felt good for the long descent to Chapel le Dale. This is probably the most scenic part of the run, and despite the rain and mist, I vaguely remembered it from 1988. It had been very cold on Whernside, so it was nice to have warmed up again. A long trot past various caves and sinkholes, classic limestone scenery, led to the very steep climb up a rocky staircase to gain the east ridge of Ingleborough. Again, I found this a relief from the running and made up some places. On the ridge, the weather closed in: a very cold wind blew in a heavy hail shower. This turned to wet snow on the summit plateau. My face froze as I ran into the headwind, which turned into a helpful (but cold) tailwind for the very long (4 mile+) descent via Sulber. This is tough on the legs but my snail's pace earlier in the day allowed me to keep the same slow plod going to the finish back in the village. A classic route, shame I couldn't do it justice. That said, the slow pace rendered it much more enjoyable than any attempt to race would have been.

Penmaenhead climbing

Crag: Penmaenhead, Colwyn Bay
Routes: Ryan's Route (f6a+:led), Clwyd MC (f6a+:sec), Big up the Lizard (f5+:sec), Tan y Lan Kids (f5:sec), Richard II (f6a+:sec), Snowdrop (f6a+:led), Retirement Day (F6a+:sec), Tunnel Vision (f6a+:led*)
A period of superb spring weather: clear skies, cherry blossom, cool nights. But few opportunities for getting out climbing and exploiting any latent 'form' (I use the term loosely) I may have after Spain. So this evening trip - perhaps my fifth trip to this crag below the old Hotel 70 Degrees in Old Colwyn - was a brief bonus. Went for the Expressway wall, partly because I haven't done any routes on it before but also because a group of teenagers lurked below the other walls. It is a strange place to climb, directly above the A55, but the routes are pretty good and the setting sun lit the crag to perfection as I started out up Ryan's Route at 6a+. This turned out well: a nice route, neatly sustained at the grade. Some technical moves up the lower half of the wall, small finger ledges and good friction, led to a long reach and an awkward rest. From here, the route steepens into a groove with good holds which leads to a juggy finish. Good climbing, the grade bang on at 6a+. The route to its left lacks independence but gives good climbing: more sustained than its partner and quite high in the grade. Hard moves away from the second bolt - quite technical and thought-provoking. A good start, so we moved down to the flowstone for Hayley's lead up the 5+ which I've done a few times before. She polished this off comfortably, and we did all three routes. Richard II has a particularly hard move by the second bolt: at least f6b briefly, moving right blindly on tiny holds. The rest is easier - too disjointed. I then led Snowdrop, another f6a+, on the Railway Tunnel Wall, with the sun dipping behind the Orme. This packs a lot of varied climbing into 11 metres! Up a flake crack, quite easy, to ledges and jugs. All going well until I went right after the final bolt, falling from the small crimps. Left is steep but considerably easier - nice positive crimps to the lower-off. Good route, especially given its brevity. A couple of other routes at a similar grade: disappointed to find my strength failing at the top of Tunnel Vision - we found the top move baffling at the grade.

Wrexham border league

Race: Wrexham 4m+ (Border League race 7)
Time/Position: 22.32 (18th from 268)
Five weeks since my last race, with little or no speed training, so I was quite concerned about whether I could maintain any kind of pace tonight. I'd also been suffering from a bit of jet lag since coming back from Japan, but last night slept solidly for the first time so had few excuses. I had a flier on this course two years ago - and was unsurprisingly over half a minute down on that time tonight. Nevertheless, I felt quite good: starting very conservatively, worried I might blow at any moment, but then gaining some confidence and picking up the pace for a decent last two miles. Finished second V40 for the season, for the third or fourth (and final, before moving up a category) time! More importantly, Buckley won the Veterans trophy after coming in to this final race with a very slender lead over Wallasey (and we finished 3rd in Division 1, same as last season).

Inari hill run

A criminally brief visit to Kyoto, the epicentre of Japanese culture. Sadly, the torrential rain that started last night in Kurashiki continued today: all day. Still, I was determined to make the best of it so headed to Inari and the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha. Despite the rain, large numbers of tourists were at the lower temple, and the lower part of the famous and very photogenic alleys of torii - the traditional orange gates that continue all the way up the mountain, tens of thousands of them all with Japanese inscriptions. After the first few hundred metres I could tolerate the tourists no longer and found a side path through the woods. This was runnable and led past wonderful bamboo forests and a number of shrines to a plateau: no people at all! It took a while, and the rain stayed torrential, so I dropped back to the torii path and continued upwards. The volume of people soon dropped away after I reached a small lake. From here, steep paths (still flanked by the orange torii) led up Mount Inari. Good, if unconventional, training for the fell running season. I descended by a different route to Inari station then had a long walk round the eastern hills, lanes and temples of Kyoto. The rain stayed relentless throughout.

Yufu mountain run

An attempt to run up Mount Yufu from the delightful Kyushu hot springs resort of Yufuin during a week-long visit to Japan that began on the southernmost island. The conventional way up the peak involves a bus journey up to a higher launch point, but the mountain is such a handsome objective from the town's main street that I tried to go direct from the station. The plan was to get up and down the twin-headed summit before my return train. This was far too ambitious, and I didn't make the top in time, but I had a great run nevertheless. I jogged through the town and out towards the open countryside and the hill itself, finding the path with surprising ease. It was clearly not the standard way up Yufu, as I was alone and the path was narrow and even a tad overgrown in places. All the signs were in Japanese but the route was clearly heading up in a direct route for the peak. I passed a shinto shrine temple in atmospheric woodland after a few hundred metres. From this point the path past a steeper sided valley then headed up directly for a while before reverting to steep zig zags: all good, as I gained height very rapidly. The sun began to peek through the clouds and unfamiliar bird song filled the air: these things make me happy. After passing through a section of fallen trees, the path emerged at some wooden signs and a great view of Yufu directly in front. It was obvious from this point that I wouldn't make it in time. Still, I was on a broad plateau/sub-peak and was enjoying myself. Some cloud passed over the summit and the wind picked up. The weather was on the change. I scampered back down to the town and within 45 minutes it was raining steadily and the entire mountain was hidden behind dark clouds. Another lovely train journey back to Fukuoka completed the day: past fast-flowing rivers, densely wooded hills and waterfalls. Exactly what I expected rural Kyushu to be like.

Pot Hole climbing

Crag: Pot Hole Quarry
Routes: Un-aided (VS 4b:TR), Grizzly (VS 4c:TR), Grizzly Eliminate (HVS 5a:TR), Major (HVS 5a:TR), Canine Meander (E2 5b:TR), The Dog (HVS 5b:TR), Right Wall (E2 5c:TR)
Another short outing, immediately after a long (2 hour) run. Just up and down a few old favourites for training purposes, with Vic and Hayley. The two eliminate style E2s - Canine Meander and Right Wall - nowadays give the best climbing here, as they are considerably less polished than the natural lines like The Dog and Major (which were polished when I started climbing them 25 years ago!). Nice little pockets, positive with good friction, make them feel much easier than the grade from a purely technical perspective (admittedly with rope above!). After our Spanish cragging trip, and the wall visits, I am getting some strength back, comfortable again on steeper rock and smaller holds: bodes well for summer.

Clwydian run

More last minute training for the Three Peaks fell race: squeezed into a couple of early morning hours as the superb spell of weather continues. Blue skies and birdsong as I plodded up from Llanferres to Foel Fenlli summit, then over to the top of Moel Famau. From here, I climbed back over the shoulder of Foel Fenlli via OD path, then continued on OD to Clwyd Gate and up to the north side of Moel Gyw. Unfamiliar tracks then led east over Cefn y Fran to Ffynnon y Berth farm and back to meet Vic at Pot Hole.

Snowdon walk

Peak: Yr Wyddfa
I had been threatening to take the offspring up Snowdon for some time, but a certain lack of enthusiasm on their part had delayed it! The weather had never quite been right either, but today (Easter Monday) we decided to brave the crowds and go for it: as the weather remained stable, sunny and unusually clear. After an early start I dropped them all off at Pen y Pass and drove down to Dyffryn Mymbyr to park. I ran back up the pass to meet them (I also employed this tactic when climbing on Lliwedd a couple of years ago: it works well but is a bit tiring). We started up the Pyg track with superb views of Crib Goch in front. I broke the ascent down into three stages to help with morale, and we rested at Bwlch y Moch after the first stage! Great views of Lliwedd and, finally, Yr Wyddfa itself. Superb clarity of light, still snow in the gullies (you could almost have climbed all of Central Trinity on a narrow strip of neve this morning). After the level section, morale started to flag a bit on the zigzags, which were getting predictably crowded. But after some infusions of sugar, we gained the tourist route and were soon on top enjoying great views of Eryri, Llyn and a bank of sea mist over towards Ireland. A pleasant lunch, unhurried for once. Ironically, however, the children were eager to descend, so we retraced steps down to the junction with the Miner's Track and headed down the steep path to Glaslyn (many years since I have taken this myself). Glaslyn was sundrenched and friendly: uncharacteristic but wonderful. M and I relaxed with nuts on the cropped grass by the shore of the lake while we waited for K and E. A long ramble back, with a few complaints, to PyP. Then I ran down the new path to PyG and the car in Mymbyr. Perfect weather throughout, and nice to finally get them up a proper hill.

Castle Inn climbing

Crag: Castle Inn, Llysfaen
Routes: School Mam (f6a:led), The Cakewalk (f6b+:led), Cakewalk Direct (f6b+:sec), Finale (f5:sec), Indian Summer (f6a:sec), Happy Return (f4+:led)
Just a short outing to keep things ticking over after the Spanish trip. After warming up on the 6a School Mam, a route I have led many times over the years, I decided to test my finger strength on The Cakewalk at f6b+. This is one of the best routes here, but I haven't led it for many years (20+ probably). As with many UK sports climbs, I consider it a tad overgraded: it would get 6b at the most in Spain or France. It gives excellent technical climbing and is a very satisfying onsight lead, remarkably unpolished given the popularity of the venue (dozens of climbers here today, Easter Saturday). Above the first bolt the route gets rather thin with excellent moves on small but positive holds. It is all there, but does take a bit of reading from below. This style of climbing suits me fairly well, and a few more moves on pinch holds and small ledges eventually gains an uncomfortable finish up unhelpful flat holds. A pleasing lead. I took the opportunity to take in the similar Cakewalk Direct to its left, but avoided the final crux move due to the pendulum (keeping the grade at 6b). Vic then led the now polished Finale, and we moved round to the Fine View wall as the sun broke through the clouds. Warm rock and blue skies: shame our time was limited.

Fox and hounds hash

A novel and enjoyable club outing from the bottom car park below Penbarras. John M had set the course out, following sawdust signs on a tortuous route which weaved in and out of the fire tracks. We made steady progress, and Steve, Jez and I pushed on a bit as we rounded the top of Moel Famau down to the Vale side in a thick mist and steady rain. We caught the route setters twice on the eastern slopes! This allowed us to do a bit more training (trying to maximise the climbing with the imminent Three Peaks race in mind). Eventually we all emerged at the 'fox' in an obscure locale deep in the woods. I extended the day by taking the steepest climb back up to a wet, windy and misty summit with a long run back to the car: maybe 14 miles in total and a lot of valuable climbing.

Sax climbing

Crag: Sax, Alicante, Spain
Routes: Blanes (f4+,4+:sec), Andurina (f6a:led), Tupungato (f5,5+:led p.1), Carrasco (f5:sec)
This was our 'airport crag', but as the flight home was so late it gave us plenty of time to sample yet another superb venue. Quite different in atmosphere to the more mountainous crags further east, Sax is essentially a group of high pyramids of impeccable pocketed limestone. It felt rather like Tremadog in scale and feel: although the views stretched out over a baked yellow valley dotted with almond orchards. The routes are relatively long, often two long pitches. We took the classic Blanes to get a feel for the climbing: the easiest and strongest natural line on the crag. Dave led a long pitch up a slabby rib, with a short bulge overcome with a steep but positive crack. Vic then led up a steep wall, followed by a long series of wide grooves to the top. I stayed as middle-man for this route. The descent takes a narrow and briefly exposed ridge down to a steep chimney, quite entertaining. After a bite to eat, Steve, Dave and Vun arrived. I went for the harder line of Andurina, which looked technical to start. It was indeed: a steep slab gave some great sequences and thought-provoking moves to a hard crux over a mild bulge. This involved a perfect shallow finger pocket and tenuous smears: felt 6b at least. Good friction helped as there was very little for the feet, even with high steps. The route eases at 15m, but stays interesting as another bulge has to be overcome before gaining superb honeycombed rock and big jugs at the upper wall. Another long, excellent pitch. The second pitch is less interesting, so I lowered off. This gave us time for Tupungato, which the other party had done but only to the cave stance. I led the first pitch, which went at a mild f5/VS 4c but was an abolutely superb pitch up slabby rock to a glorious upper red slab on little incut holds. Just wonderful relaxed climbing, absorbing and continually interesting as it slanted rightwards towards the big cave, but never difficult. I brought Dave and Vic up to the cave, and Vic then led the steeper and dramatically contrasting top pitch. This went via exciting moves left of the overhang at the top of the cave to gain a second cave and another pulsating move round a small overhang. Above, a very rough slab with holds like shards of glass (reminiscent of parts of Chateaudouble) led in another big 40m pitch to the top. Another three star classic HVS/E1. After another descent to the base, we were tiring. But light cloud made it cooler in the evening air, and there was just time for Dave to lead one last pitch. He went for a big one: a monster 40m route up the detached pinnacle that rose from an intriguing giant cleft right of the main face. This was an old route, Carrasco, which picked its way up a fairly intimidating piece of rock. It gave yet another excellent pitch, but was at the outer limit of a feasible lower-off (with our gigantic 80m rope!). A steep initial wall was exited by way of a sharp flake crack up to the right. A long slab then gained an upper wall which was climbed on more painfully sharp flake holds and pockets. A long and awkward lower-off into the depths of the cleft. There were other mouth-watering routes on this section of crag, but our stomachs demanded a trip to the town of Sax, where cheap pork steaks and chips fortified us before the drive to the airport.

Echo Valley climbing

Crag: Val de Guadar/Echo Valley, Costa Blanca, Spain
Routes: Espolon Alderlon (f4+:sec), Romero's Birthday (f4+:sec), Synovial (f5:sec), Phalanges (f5+:led), Marian Jones (f6a:sec), Sin Chapa (f6a:led), Pro-Wire (f3:sol), Regalo por Ali (f5:sec), X.M.A.S. (f6a:sec), Phantom (f5+:sec)
It seemed prudent to opt for a single pitch venue after yesterday's monster outing. Scouring the guidebook, Echo Valley seemed to offer a number of advantages: it wasn't far away from our cabin, and seemed likely to offer relaxed and unpolished routes. After breakfast on the fringes of Benidorm, we headed up to the valley: another extraordinary oasis, beautiful tranquility just minutes away from the bustle and unpleasantness of the coast. Echo 1.5 is a newly bolted venue, offering modestly graded routes and the kind of soothing climbing we needed. The lower crag was very short, so we headed to the upper crag and were pleased to find a nice sweep of limestone, rather like a smaller version of Sella but without the polish. It was still a good 30m/100ft high, though, and looked much better than I'd expected. The views over the huge neighbouring crags of Ponoch and down to Calpe and the Med were magnificent. The weather was getting progressively warmer: 22C today and not a cloud in the deep blue sky, but with occasional sea breezes it was quite delightful. Two easy climbs on the left gave a good warm-up, before I seconded Dave up the pleasant Synovial at f5. I opted for Phalanges, a grade harder at f5+, and to my surprise it proved a magnificent outing. A steep slab, just my cup of tea, with superb small incut holds and tiny pockets, led to a small ledge 20 metres up. Sustained and technical up to this point, with some reachy moves, but solutions were always there. Above, the route steepens, but the bulge is overcome on gigantic holds. Superb jugs lead to the lower-off. A tremendous pitch for the grade, as good if not better than anything else on this trip: three stars would not be an exaggeration of its quality as single pitches go. Dave then led the 6a further left: this had a scrappy start, slightly dirty, followed by a short layback leading to technical crack climbing. Low in the grade and not quite the same quality, but worthwhile. I then had a bash at Sin Chapa, a 6a+ and a bit of an eliminate. This was in a similar vein to Phalanges, sustained climbing on small holds and smears. It went well to the top ledge but I didn't fancy the crux 6a+ move from the ledge (mainly because the bolting meant I would have landed on the ledge if I'd fluffed it!). So I used the lower chain to get down. After some excellent tuna and onion empenadas, we moved down to the lower tier as the sun began to sink behind the mountains further up the valley. This was nowhere near as good, but the f5 up the obvious shallow groove, which Vic led, was good. Two soft touch short routes at 6a and 5+ pushed the count to ten, and we retired to the cabin for salmon, lentil and chorizo stew, and kebabs.

Espolon Central

Peak/Crag: Puig Campana, Costa Blanca, Spain
Routes: Espolon Central Direct (uD+/VS 4b f3+,4+,3+,3+,1,4,4,4+,1,4+,4+,4,4: led p.1,3,5,7,9)
This was the route we wanted, and the one that persuaded me to come out here for a few days. The Puig dominates this part of the the Costa Blanca and towers above our 'home' village of Finestrat. The most striking line, Espolon Central is a fairly easy climb, but gives a notoriously long and tiring day (450m/1600ft and 14 pitches), so an early start seemed sensible. Not early by Alpine standards though, so after a substantial breakfast we drove the short distance to the start of the walk-in (we could see part of the route from our cabin east of Finestrat). It was cool, around 7am, and we made excellent progress along an indirect (incorrect?) line, part of the mountain circuit, before heading direct up a shallow valley to the base of the direct start. Less than 40 minutes to the start, rather than the guide time of an hour, which boded well for a reasonably quick ascent. As a rope of three, however, progress would inevitably be slower. We used a single 80m rope, alternating leads with one man in the middle - planning to swap the middle man at the 'lunch ledge', nine pitches up. It was a good plan, and worked well. I led off up the first pitch of the direct start, placing wires for the first time in many months - quite a route for a trad shakedown! Good rough limestone, not polished. Dave's pitch was a little harder, and went up a groove briefly before traversing left to the arete. Nice moves to the belay. I continued up the third pitch, up slabby grooves and tubes, great rock and surprisingly continuous climbing. We'd polished off the Direct Start (a three pitch route in itself!) in around an hour, so things were looking good for an efficient ascent. Dave then led a long traverse up a series of slabs and grooves to a gully, and I continued across the gully to finally gain the base of the long and slender ridge itself (five pitches in!). It was still a little cool as we were on the shady side of the narrow ridge. The route gets more exposed quite quickly as the ridge begins - Dave led pitch six up blocky rock, giving me the next pitch as the route becomes spectacular for the first time, and develops a real mountain ambiance. I moved right up steep but wonderfully juggy rock, over a lot of space, then straight up the front of the ridge: superb relaxed climbing up big flakes and large holds. Excellent nut protection with threads and slings where needed. Great easy pitch, but eclipsed by the next pitch, which leaves a perfect flat ledge to traverse left to gain a long groove/chimney. This is much easier than it looks - a bit of thoughtful bridging and searching for holds helps - and gives continuous interest to the big 'lunch ledge', which we reached at 11.30 after less than four hours climbing. I then switched to the middle of the rope and led a short scramble to the base of a large and complex wall that gives access to the upper (final section) of the ridge. This gave a splendid VS 4b/c pitch, quite slabby with a granite/Ogwen feel to it. A crack slanted left then right with small positive holds giving way to more blocks and jugs. The stance was spectacular, a little ledge poised above the ridge - the views were now stupendous. Warm sunshine, crystal clear, deep blue skies: the Med was directly in front with the tower blocks of Benidorm a constant, but distant, feature. All the local peaks and crags were visible: Sella, Castellets and so on, with Finestrat directly below. Vic then took the lead, which we prudently split given the shortness of the rope. A short horizontal ridge to a belay below a deep fissure. This was easily the crux of the route for me, partly because I'd taken over ownership of the heaviest sac as middle man. It dragged me outwards for the horrible thrutch at the top of the deep groove, flailing for pinch holds on the outer walls. By far the most polished rock of the entire route too: it was all eerily reminiscent of my experience on the crux pitches of the Grand Parcours at Sainte Victoire. Indeed, in its length and general 'feel', that route (done with Vic in 2012) was an obvious point of comparison (this route was less technical, slightly shorter, but far more sustained). Above, another spectacular stance - a small ledge poised above 1000ft of ridge with the Mediterranean directly in front. The next pitch was good again: a steep start followed by a twisting crack complete with perfect hidden jugs - superb, varied pitches. A giant platform at the top, and the end was in sight! The final pitch (number 14!) took a deep groove, awkward at the start, and led to easier ground with one final steep move round an overlap. From here, scrambling led to a tree and some welcome shade. This made a nice lunch spot, as we'd taken almost seven hours on the route (not too bad for a team of three). The descent is notoriously long and complex: but it was tremendously satisfying and added hugely to the overall experience. A long system of exposed ledges, with thin cables in places, led horizontally over a series of steep gullies to eventually gain a few chimneys which led to a levelling. We were now above the final wide descent gully, but the route finding and interest still wasn't over. Small holds and tricky edging down a limestone slab led to more good scrambling down a weaving and intriguing line. Eventually, we gained the screes and took an efficient line down to gain a broad spur which led towards the car. Superb backwards views of the route: a stunning and striking line, equally notable from the streets of Finestrat below. A long day in the saddle: almost 10 hours door to door. But the early start gave us plenty of time to refuel with an authentic paella later on.

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.