Drum from Conwy

Peaks: Carnedd y Ddelw, Drum
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
Another stunning period of weather, and a slight easing of the Welsh lockdown, so I visited St Asaph and then Conwy. I'd like to have camped in the northern Carneddau, but stuck closer to the rules with a midsummer evening run instead. My vague plan was to run up Foel Fras, I realised quite quickly that I was tired, however, and the long haul up the lanes to Llangelynin old church felt hard (although enlivened considerably by an adder slithering across the road). After the church, I felt a bit better for some of my favourite paths and tracks through the little valley below Tal y Fan and across to Cae Coch. The sun was dropping but it was still very hot with no wind as I plodded up to Bwlch y Ddaefaen. A strong breeze caused a major drop in temperature as I crested Carnedd y Ddelw and it was almost chilly on Drum: I had to shelter in a grassy depression looking out over the Orme and Tal y Fan (1:40 to the summit of Drum from Hod). I descended the ridge to Pen y Castell before cutting down into the tussocky and untravelled valley to the north, and rehydrating at the Afon Tafolog (I'm not actually sure whether this valley is called Cwm Tafolog or not). From here, the terrain stays awkward until reaching the tiny road from Llanbedr y Cennin. Over the bridge, then down steeply into Rowen, before a tiring return along the minor road to Ty'n y Groes, and then the main road back to Conwy. About 30km/1000m.

Deiniolen 10k

Race: Virtual Deiniolen 10k
Time/Position: 36.56 (8th from 225 [1st V50])
My V50 debut, albeit not in the way I'd envisaged. My diary had multiple races planned, all long since deleted, so anything is better than nothing. Deinolen was one of them, and as it happens I've never actually done the real race as it tends to clash with other things. I did it all by the book this morning, no negative elevation, 5k from HK down Stringer's Lane to Burton, then back. The race involved a phone app, which counted down and worked well, but it was a real pain running whilst holding the phone! I took a conservative approach to the pacing and was a tad disappointed with the time, as I ran a lot faster than this a month or two ago.

Langdale Horseshoe from Elterwater

Peaks: Pike O'Blisco, Crinkle Crags, Bowfell, Pike O'Stickle
Area: Langdale, Lake District
Of all the classic Lakes 'horseshoe' races, Langdale is more or less my last remaining gap (having previously done Ennerdale, Wasdale, Borrowdale, Kentmere, Grisedale, Coledale and Anniversary Waltz). So under lockdown, it seemed an obvious choice given my border location. I decided to extend and alter the race route, though, to make it a little longer and more aesthetically pleasing. So I parked in Elterwater, a village I have always liked, and set off along the riverside path to Chapel Stile then climbing up to contour the slopes of Side Pike to finally gain the tiny road up from Wall End. This leads to the main path up Pike O'Blisco, a nice little peak at the end of this side of the valley and the obvious starting point. I'd left home very early, and it was still only 8am, but it was blisteringly hot initially, very sweaty work in direct sunlight. Later, however, high cloud rolled in and took the edge off the temperature. I enjoyed the Pike, superb views from the summit, and then had Crinkle Crags to look forward to (all this side of the valley was new to me, the only major peaks in the Lakes I hadn't done). The high cloud made the traverse a little more comfortable, although it stayed warm for the run past Red Tarn to pick up the path leading to Crinkle Crags: great views over the Langdale Pikes on one side, and Coniston Fells on the other. I ploughed up towards the little peaks of Crinkle Crags, I suppose the closest thing the Lakes have to the Glyders. It was all very enjoyable, twists and turns until the main summit at Cold Pike. Then, down to the Three Tarns and a steep haul to Bowfell, the day's highpoint and a fine mountain. As far as I can remember, I have only been up Bowfell once before - and I think that was midwinter's day in 1992, after doing the classic Bowfell Buttress rock climb in sub-zero conditions and verglassed rocks. It stayed with me, but I'd never been back. I had the summit to myself, it was still early morning in semi-lockdown, with views across to Scafell and the Pike. I pondered continuing to Esk Pike but eventually settled on a run to Ore Gap then across the corner to the path down to Angle Tarn. From here, I took the lengthy diversionary path towards Langstrath and the indirect climb to the Langdale Pikes, eventually emerging below Pike O'Stickle on the other side of the valley. This gives a nice scramble, and another place I haven't been for decades. Views straight down to the bottom of the valley. Flies sent me away to Loft Pike where there are superb views to Gimmer, for me one of the best crags in the Lakes (last visited two years ago, ticking classics with Vic). I dropped down to the stream below Harrison Stickle then pelted directly down to the Old Dungeon Ghyll. A long run-in down the valley road to Elterwater.

Virtual Team Relays

Race: Virtual Team Relays
Distance: 5.2m (30mins)
The weekend of the Castles Relays, which had obviously been cancelled a long time ago. This was an informal replacement idea put forward by Builth Wells Runners (I think), whereby teams of 20 or so raced virtually over the course of a long summer day. My slot was 2.30pm, and I felt rather tired after recent training. I kept a steady pace going and just aimed to cover at least five miles in my 30 minute slot. I managed this, and a little more, on a leg from home to Saltney and then down Boundary Lane for a few hundred metres. Buckley finished 8th team, I think.

Eglwyseg Round from Bwlchgwyn

All my carefully considered plans for V50 races have been blown out of the water, so there's not much left apart from variations on some of the long local loops I have done in the past. This was one such. I have done several variations on rounds of the Eglwyseg valley over the years, usually starting in Llangollen. This time I parked in Bwlchgwyn, taking small paths towards Minera and finally up to the World's End road which winds across Ruabon Moor. This is always peaceful, especially so under lockdown, with great views towards Berwyn. Dropping down to World's End, I joined OD for the path under the crags, which I have always considered to be the best scenery and best running in north-east Wales. In Llangollen, I got a pie and chocolate milk (a very rare shop visit) which gave something of a boost for the very long run back. This takes the canalside path to the Chain Bridge, then the lanes to Rhewl before the brutal Conquering Hero. This is always the crux of these rounds, and was again today - an unrelenting climb, initially on tarmac and then on grass up to the bwlch below Moel y Gamelin. The route to the summit is even steeper, and a squall blew in at this point - cold, windy and rainy for the haul over Moel y Faen, down to the Ponderosa and up Cyrn y Brain. From here there was still a long run-in through Llandegla forest back to Bwlchgwyn. Nearly 40k, 1200m, 3:47.

Pennine/Calderdale loop

Not my favourite part of the world, but needs must under current regulations. This time of year, I would normally be in the north-west Highlands, and the weather has been perfect for months. But with that barred, England is the only option, and I do have fond memories of the Haworth Hobble and Heptonstall fell race in these parts. I set off from Blackstone Edge above Littleborough, taking the smooth and comfortable Pennine Way to skirt the series of reservoirs above Calderbrook. After Warland, the path cuts rightwards and makes its way up to the top of Stoodley Pike, such a notable landmark in these parts. All very different to the last time I was here, two-thirds of the way through the Haworth Hobble in the mist. I then cut down a surprisingly small path to Withens Clough, then a superb descent down to the pretty village of Cragg Vale, which nestles at the bottom of a steep valley. I climbed out of this to the east, which led to delightful tracks above Ripponden. Big views, typical Pennine scenery (Yorkshire now) as I followed the Calderdale Way. Eventually, I took the old Packhorse road back, which was rather arduous and tussocky but avoided the main Halifax road for a 25k round. One day before my 50th birthday.

Tour de Flintshire

Whatever else lockdown has been, it has been paradise for cycling. It took me a few weeks to get my bike back to full working order, but after a few decent 50-60k outings I decided to refine my Tour de Flintshire, which attempts to take in the highlights of the historic county (not the modern version), pausing for lunch in St Asaph. I last did this in 2015, training for the Wild Wales. I tweaked it a bit this time, heading through Buckley to Rhosesmor - a vicious climb - then over to Halkyn, Holywell, Lloc and along to Dyserth. From here, I took the little lanes south to Rhuallt then over Pont Dafydd to St Asaph and a delightful and delicious lunch. Fortified, the second half has an entirely different character. The route goes to Bodfari then Llandyrnog before the crux climb over the Clwydians to Nannerch. I should have incorporated Cilcain, but instead took in Mold then a long extension out to Hope and back via the lanes. Just over 100k, another perfect May day.

Disputed territory

Living half a mile from the border, it seems legitimate to exploit the English regulations from time to time. I have already revisited the Frodsham/Helsby hills so today started a little further afield (actually, around the same distance from HK) from Weston Rhyn near Chirk. This entire run was in England, despite the place names (and, arguably, the historical reality). From Weston, I ran on the lovely lane that climbs westwards to the secluded border village of Bronygarth. From here, I joined Offa's Dyke, which immediately becomes very steep as it climbs onto the crest of the border hills south of Chirk. Interestingly, on this section the official footpath follows the Dyke itself - and, indeed, the Dyke itself follows the exact line of the modern border. The weather was not as good as the forecast - dark grey skies and a very strong wind. But it was absolutely glorious, albeit rather slow running - views east over Shropshire to the flat Midlands, and west over the Welsh hills. This is classic borderland, really beautiful. Eventually the route drops down to Craig Nant before another climb up Selattyn Hill which I remembered from last time I was here many years ago (I had a number of walks along OD, getting all the way down to Clun, in the early 2000s when dad often dropped me off en route to Cardiff). From Selattyn, much quicker running to the Old Racecourse above Oswestry before dropping through Candy Wood and then the long route back. This was not quite so much fun - little lanes to Oswestry - through the eerily quiet, shut down centre - then out via the Gobowen road. From Gobowen, I crossed the main road to join more small lanes back to Weston.

Conwy coastal hills

An essential work trip for Kate to prepare the Culture Centre for opening, so I took the opportunity for a little run round some of my favourite landscapes. Initially, I headed up Sychnant then cut south to take the ancient tracks westwards to curve round the base of Tal y Fan and climb up Foel Lus. This is always a wonderful viewpoint, but particularly so today with conditions perfect. Beautiful warm weather, and crystal clear clarity, no wind: just as it has been since lockdown began. From Foel Lus I headed down to join the Pen race route down to Capelulo, then up Sychnant to Allt Wen. From here, the familar route over Mynydd y Dref and a final loop round Bodlondeb.

Rhydymwyn byways

Under the new Welsh regulations, slow duathlons are now possible. I've done a few recently, cycling to Ffrith or the Clwydians, then changing into running shoes for a hilly circuit, then back home on the bike. This was a slightly longer version, from home to Rhydymwyn, then setting off on foot using the little lane cutting the corner to Hendre. From here, I took the lovely bridleway which climbs steeply up ancient pathways to finally gain the pass below Moel Arthur (I have used this to run to the Dinorben on 2 or 3 occasions). Very few people around, with all the car parks blocked off. I enjoyed the long haul along the ridge south to the top of Moel Famau, and then the plunge to Cilcain before taking the obscure but delightful paths that weave around the sides of the Alyn valley back to Rhydymwyn. All at their absolute best this time of year - yet another glorious day, as with almost every day since the lockdown began!

River Dee loop

A new route for me, trying to get as inventive as possible under current unprecedented restrictions. I left Rough Hill and ran to Eccleston, picking up the little path along the banks of the Dee to Aldford. So far, so familiar, but the next stretch - unbelievably - was new to me. I followed the banks religiously, round all the big meanders, past Churton to some Appalachian-style log cabins. This stretch feels surprisingly remote, little trodden, perhaps a reflection of its distance from the road. Eventually the path reaches Farndon, after which I headed back to Rough Hill via Rossett and Pulford.

Welsh Athletics Virtual 5k

Virtual Race: Welsh Athletics Virtual 5k
Time/Position: 17.47 (48th from 269 [4th V45])
Almost exactly the same time as the 5k relays in early April, and Nos Galan on New Year's Eve for that matter. Slightly slower, indeed, and as such this was a little disappointing, possibly due to an excessively early start and a few unnecessary turns on the HK Green circuit that I chose to use (unlike the point-to-point course I used on the relays). Would have been second V50, so that bodes quite well, but the leg speed is definitely lacking.

Club champs 10m

Virtual Race: Club Champs 10m (Five Villages route)
Time/Position: 1.05.52
By far the worst of my recent virtual performances, this was a real struggle. In fact, I ran a quicker time around this same route on a normal tempo session a month ago! I can only think I was a bit tired after the recent long run over the hinterland hills. It was yet another beautiful day, fairly hot which didn't help. I didn't feel great for the first leg out towards Rossett, and this got worse for the long haul through Pulford to Rough Hill, on which I had a slight tailwind. I lost even more time on the westwards run in back to the Welsh border. A full 7 minutes down on my 10 mile PB.

HK-Moel Famau-Mold

Another inventive solution to the current dystopian predicament. All normal activities curtailed, so this was a repeat of a run from the front door to the top of Moel Famau that I last did around a decade ago. It is obviously a somewhat shorter variant of my Chester-Famau route that we recently repeated and refined slightly. From HK, I head through Buckley to avoid the main road to Mold. To add some variety, I then reversed the normal Collie route to reach the top in glorious sunshine in 1.51 from the front door (just under half marathon distance). Completely empty - a memorable experience. From the summit, I descended down to the leat via the Collie route, then through Pantymwyn and Gwernaffield to meet M at the Mold Lidl - 30k/803m in total.

Club champs 10k

Virtual Race: Club Champs 10k (Hope-Saltney)
Time: 35.37
With a 10k PB of 34.17 recorded nine years ago, I needed all the help I could get today (the scores are assessed against lifetime PBs). So I cheated slightly! I selected a course from the start of Sandy Lane on the edge of Hope - this has a certain amount of negative elevation down to HK and then across the border to Lower Kinnerton. I was going quite well in the new shoes, and managed to keep motivation and pace going through Bretton and down to Saltney, where my 10k route ended in Morrisons car park. Well down on my PB, but still my quickest 10k time for a few years.

HK hinterland hills

The circumstances are dictating an ever-more-creative approach to running from the front door. This was one such - a desperate attempt to get into the hills without driving. I've done a few circuits of Hope Mountain from home, but on this occasion I took paths from Caer Estyn down to the lovely stream valley which leads to Cefn y Bedd and Abermorddu. From here, I took the Brymbo road (normally too dangerous) up steep Minera hill to branch off to Ffrith. Then comes the delightful (long and gentle) climb through the woods to curve up to the steep finish up to the trig on Pen Llan y Gwr. From here, I took my favourite descent back to Llanfynydd, the wild garlic and bluebells at their best in the Cegidog stream valley. From Llanfynydd, I took the 'tunnel of pain' up to the top of Waun y Llyn and then the roads back to HK - 28k/700m.

Club champs 5m

Virtual Race: Club Championship 5m (Business Park Roundabout-Moor Lane)
Time/Position: 28.50 
An informal virtual club championship has been launched. The national relays provided a 5k time, with a 5 miler following. Times were assessed against PBs, which was challenging for me with almost all of them set around 8-9 years ago and my 50th birthday approaching. New shoes helped for this, though. Another beautiful day, so M dropped me off at Rough Hill. I jogged up to the A55/Business Park roundabout and battered the first mile to Balderton. This is one of the issues with virtual racing, there is a temptation to go off a little too fast without numerous groups to pace with. I overestimated the distance, so reached HK before I'd completed the distance! So I had to extend back down Moor Lane which was rather tiring. I finished around 20 seconds down on my official PB (although I did once break 28m on an informally measured course).

Virtual road relay championships

Virtual Race: National Road Relays (5k)
Time/Position: 17.42 (1180 from 5345)
It looks like virtual racing is the future of the sport for the time being. This was a first, as far as I'm aware - the national road relays championships held virtually with over 5000 runners competing. We entered a Buckley team and did reasonably well, although the competition is obviously extremely stiff. I selected Stringer's Lane from Burton to HK as my route, to avoid excessive negative elevation! The jog out to Burton provided a useful warm-up, and the effort went reasonably well - a similar time to Nos Galan on NYE. It is harder without other runners around you, of course, but there's still a form of motivation going on.

North Berwyn loop

Peaks: Moel Fferna
Area: Berwyn, Eryri
It seemed obvious that a full lockdown was imminent, so this was another run with a poignant, elegiac quality. I didn't want to drive far, so parked outside Corwen and ran along the road and riverside paths to Cynwyd (familiar from recent runs like the Dee Valley/North Berwyn 30 mile combination). From Cynwyd, the very long climb up into the Berwyn begins immediately. A tough haul on steep tarmac initially until it levels off for the firetracks that lead to a conifer forest. The weather was beautiful, indeed the lockdown later coincided with perfect spring weather: my absolute favourite time of year in the Welsh mountains, the irony did not go unnoticed. Above the forest, the running is superb - my 4th time along this track to Moel Fferna. Nobody visible: indeed, I have never seen anybody on Moel Fferna. The perfect choice for this strange day. From the summit, I took in the views to Aran and Eglwyseg in crystal clarity before pelting all the way down to Llidiart y Parc in 18 minutes. I was rather tired for the final leg along the quiet lanes that lead from the Grouse back to Corwen; these undulate continually.

Carneddau-Capel circuit

Peaks: Pen yr Ole Wen, Carnedd Dafydd, Carnedd Llewellyn, Pen yr Helgi Du, Pen Llithrig y Wrach
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
A grand old circuit, which I first did a shorter version of aged 18 in perfect conditions at the same time of year. That was March 1989, if I remember correctly, a day of crisp snow and spring sunshine. Today, by contrast, the outing had a elegiac quality with lockdown approaching. I got to the top of Pen (a mixture of jogging and walking) in less than 45 minutes but then slowed considerably across the main ridge in a stiff and very cold headwind. The clag was down but lifted very briefly when I crossed Dafydd to the top of the Black Ladders. Some snow on Llewellyn, and a ferocious windchill which made life pretty uncomfortable. Dropping down towards Llugwy got me out of it quite quickly, however, and I made good progress down towards Bwlch y Tri Marchog. Conditions were much better now, with clouds clearing and the sun starting to peek through: much warmer. I scampered up the scrambly ridge to Helgi Du then enjoyed the superb running across to Llithrig. From here, I took the now familiar Paddy descent, very long and very boggy, down to the A5 and Capel Curig - running back along the old Miner's road through Ogwen. By now, the weather was wonderful. This is normally my favourite time of year to be in the Welsh mountains, with crystal clarity and a hint of warmth in the sun promising better days to come. This year, not so much.

Ras yr Aran

Race: Ras yr Aran fell race (16.2km/3100ft)
Time/Position: 1.58.41 (158th from 312)
I have always argued that this is a unique race, so early in the year yet climbing to such a remote highpoint. I have done it 6 or 7 times, but I think this is only the second time I've touched the actual trig point on Fawddwy (although I've been up the hill a lot on normal runs and walks). It was a British Championship race this year, with all that implies in terms of quality of field, from every (hilly) corner of the country: and it also seemed likely to mark the end of racing for a while, with covid-19 approaching. So the atmosphere was a little unusual as we set off from Llanuwchllyn to start that massive, but familiar climb. I felt sluggish throughout, only really perking up as we gained the ridge at the tiny pools below Aran Benllyn. The weather on the ridge was about average - misty and cold, fairly strong winds. The final summit cone is a tricky scramble in running shoes, always damp and slippery, it adds a considerable amount of time. After this, I descended averagely back to the village. Eight minutes down on my best time for the course, although that was a decade ago.

Chester-Moel Famau-Loggerheads

A refinement of a route done in January last year, when I ran from my office door in the University to the top of Moel Famau, then down to the Collie. This time, Peter and I left the Crown Court in bright and breezy weather, the summit disconcertingly distant on the horizon. We took the Roodee path, which makes it a few minutes longer but is more pleasant. From here, we ran together to the Old Warren climb, then met up again in Buckley. Eventually, however, I went too far ahead and we lost each other before Mold, which was a shame. I took the same route as last January, which seems logical as the quickest way to the summit - which I reached in a respectable 2.38 from the Crown Court. It was misty and cool, and I jogged down to meet Peter for a pint at the Loggerheads pub. In retrospect, it would be neater to start with a hand on the Chester Cross and finish with a hand on the trig point (32.47km in total).

Long Mynd Valleys fell race

Race: Long Mynd Valleys (18.5km/1370m)
Time/Position: 2.08.08 (23rd from 101)
Back at LMV for the first time since 2009: an inexplicably long gap for what is a classic fell race. I have vivid memories of following a trail of blood through the snow on the brutal second half of the race 11 years ago. Today, no such drama, although it was a small field - as it had been cancelled on its original date due to Storm Ciara. It was fairly cold, with the odd light snow shower today, but nothing comparable to the frozen feet and hard-packed snow of 2009. The race begins with a climb up the rocky ridge rising from Carding Mill, then embarks on its fairly easy first half. With a lot of mud underfoot after recent downpours, the term is relative of course. But there is a lot of contouring running with grand panoramas, until it heads back south and takes its direct line back to Carding Mill - dipping up and down all those beautiful valleys like Ashes Hollow. Wonderful views and perfect weather at times - blue sky with the occasional shower. The descents are very steep in places and there is virtually no level running in the second half, it is all either violent descents or brutal climbs. The hardest of all is the last one, up the steepest and longest side of Yearlet. I have done this hill from all angles, and it is remarkably steep given its Shropshire location. I ended up a tad quicker than 11 years ago, three minutes or so, although conditions were a little kinder.

Castell Alun catchment run

Another reprise of a favourite long run, by way of marathon training. This is a tough 32km circuit with 2000ft of climbing as it heads over Hope Mountain in both directions. I felt reasonably good, however, and finished in 2.27. It was windy throughout, with rain at times, and that really slowed me on the climb from Leeswood to Treuddyn.

Parisian run

An early morning run through the streets of Paris: it doesn't get much better. I left the hotel at Place Cambronne and followed the line of the railway to cross the Seine and head to the Trocadero. From here, it was up to the Arc de Triomphe and then, as it got light, I pelted down the Champs Elysees all the way to Place de la Concorde. I last ran here in 2009, the opening mile of the Paris Marathon. Then it was back along the Seine to the Eiffel Tower and hotel, where my companions were still sleeping. This was the best of three short Parisian runs during our minibreak.

Conwy Mountain fell race

Race: Conwy Mountain race (5.5m/1900ft)
Time/Position: 54.34 (20th from 94)
This really was a last minute decision. I had done a hardish run last night and was planning to rest up in advance of Sunday's Village Bakery half. But I heard that it had been cancelled, despite the fact that the wind was scheduled to ease. By contrast, the Conwy Mountain race was scheduled to start at the height of Storm Dennis, and there was no question of it being cancelled - such is the cultural difference between the two branches of the sport. I have always enjoyed both, but sometimes the contrast is stark! The wind howled as we set off for the long climb up the bridleway towards Allt Wen, a path I know very well. It was a crosswind fortunately, although as we emerged from the woods it barrelled into us and made life hard approaching the summit. The steep descent towards the A55 was then very muddy and slippery, and the 62mph tailwind for the next section wasn't all that much help, as it was so fierce that it drove us into the scree and made it hard to stick to the paths. It did help for the ridge across to Mynydd y Dref, though. I was well down on the last time I did the race (2017 - its first running) and this got worse with a very slow, slippery descent all the way down to the road before the brutal final climb below the Notice Board crag in torrential rain. Ended up well over four minutes down on 2017, and 13 places lower, although the weather and the bigger championship field offered some explanation.

Clywedog trail run

I was scheduled to return to Long Mynd Valleys today for the first time since 2009, but Storm Ciara put paid to that: 60mph+ gusts. So I sought shelter, repeating the Clywedog Trail run last done in November 2016. This worked fairly well, although the weather was predictably appalling at certain points. From Minera, a vicious headwind combined with flooded paths to make a very wet start, although the plan did work well initially in the sense that it was genuinely sheltered. This changed as I entered the Erddig grounds with the storm at its height - howling wind and torrential rain, some big trees down. At Kings Mill, the end of the trail I doubled back but then decided it would be prudent to avoid the woods on the return. Instead I took a sweeping loop on roads to Rhostyllen, and then the climb contouring Esclusham to Minera. The roads were all flooded - thigh deep in places - and the weather was horrendous throughout, a real soaking.

Wirral Traverse

This had been lurking at the back of my mind for some time as an interesting long run. It worked well, and I set off from Kinnerton Old Road in dank and drizzly weather. Through Hawarden, then down to the Blue Bridge which leads to a long and tortuous section through the Deeside Industrial Estates. I'd done this on a bike with M and the Scouts a few years ago, which helped. It is a relief to gain the duckboards adjacent to the Dee Estuary and finally start to head in the right direction. You can really get a nice rhythm going, past Burton and Neston - all very peaceful away from cars. Then a little detour inland to gain the Wirral Way, which is a tad dull in places with trees on both sides. Several sections are recognisable from races like Thurstaston MT and the like, and it was all very wet after recent deluges. I got to West Kirby in less than 2.20, and carried on to the golf course for the full trip, before meeting Kate for the completist walk to Hilbre and a picnic.

Chester Parkrun

'Race': Chester parkrun
Time/Position: 19.03 (6th from 419)
A huge field for the Parkrun, which takes a different route to the one I was familiar with, heading across some narrow tracks. With such a big field, this was hard to negotiate and I felt tired throughout after a fair amount of recent running, with a bad choice of footwear making things worse (heavy trail shoes).

Wychavon Way Ultra

Race: Winter Wychavon Way Ultra Marathon (40m)
Time/Position: 7.14.28 (14th from 116)
A muddy traverse of Worcestershire, and a very nice way to notch up my 10th ultra marathon. It will be the last one for some time, I think, as I try to regain a bit of speed. It was doubly pleasing as an event, as I hadn't done any serious distance since the Fellsman last April. As a result, I was dependent on all the long mountain days last year along with the usual muscle memory. Peter and I stayed overnight in Evesham, and after a pleasant evening woke early for the drive to Broadway. I'd been to its immaculate Cotswold streets before, in the summer of 2014 en route to a family holiday in Cornwall. We got the bus all the way back to Droitwich, always a psychologically damaging part of an ultra as the drive is so long! We left a murky Droitwich at 8.30, carrying a slightly absurd amount of compulsory kit. It was muddy almost immediately, for a long canalside section leading to muddy (and flooded) fields around Goosehill Green. I am still too much of a traditionalist to download routes but this is increasingly an unfeasible approach now, as I discovered following the Wychavon Way markers through an overgrown section before finding fellow runners again for a long road section through Earls Common before miles of draining boggy fields led to the first CP at Flyford Flavell. This became the day's theme, very muddy throughout, on clay soil which my new Hokas picked up like a concrete pancake round the base of the foot. All rather draining. The next section was the same, numerous wet fields through to Church Lench along with the occasional millionaire's half-timbered period property. The route then turns west towards Wyre Piddle and the River Avon before running right through the centre of busy Pershore. Ahead loomed Bredon Hill, the day's crux, which took an age to actually arrive as the route twists and turns through little hamlets and Avonside paths. In fact, its steepish slopes (for this part of the world) provided a nice break, and the murky weather turned to light drizzle, quite cold, cresting the 'summit'. The views would have been extensive on a clear day, but the descent gave the best running of the day - drier and wonderfully undemanding, gently downhill more or less all the way to the third and final checkpoint at Sedgebarrow. I was tired, but generally pleasantly surprised to be able to keep a good plodding pace ticking over, similar to Brecon-Cardiff last February but with far less specific training. I had fallen in with Colin from Oxford, and we paced each other very well. It was obvious that we'd broken the back of it by now, and the run-in back east to Broadway was good, apart from a few rutted quagmires. We picked up three or four more places for a fairly respectable finish. A great day out, and an enjoyable journey through what for me is unfamiliar territory, always a key motivation.

Four Villages half marathon

Race: Four Villages half marathon
Time/Position: 1.22.10 (131 from 1700)
It has been almost four years since my last half marathon, although I have done at least 40 of them in total. I felt a conservative approach would be best today, given the length of that break. I did this race in 2006 and 2007 (contracting pneumonia after running in freezing fog with a cough), and then ran 1.18 on it in 2014. It's a great course, quite hilly in places but with a very fast downhill finish. I parked in Dunham and jogged to the start, I'd forgotten what a big event this is and really enjoyed the first few miles, working in groups, keeping it nice and steady. It was foggy and cold, perfect conditions, so perhaps I should have pressed on a little. Instead, I stayed conservative until the course emerges from the fog at its highpoint above Manley - after which I upped the pace towards the finish. Over four minutes down on my PB, but not too bad in the circumstances.

Dash in the Dark

Race: Dash in the Dark, race 3 (Llandegla)
Time/Position: 25.11 (4th from 147 [1st V40])
I seem to be making a habit of only doing the final 'dash' of the three race winter series. I've been doing them for years, and in the past I often managed to do all three, but various things prevented me this year. Great to get one in, though, and with a new course to enjoy. I'd been warned that it was very short (5.3k/170m), but didn't mind too much with several 5k blasts under my belt recently. It is very runnable now, with a long climb from the car park giving way to the usual twists and turns by the lakeside before the very steep descent through the woods, which has been retained. I had a good battle for 4th place, really enjoyable, but eventually the other chap faded and I ran the last 1km or so on my own.

Abergele 5m

Race: Abergele 5m (Border League race 4)
Time/Position: 29.28 (44th from 350)
A slight variant on the usual seaside course from Pensarn, in that there was no break through the caravan site. Instead, the race headed west into a stiff headwind before turning back for a long tailwind blast to the Pensarn car park, then a punishing final 1km into the full headwind at which point all the groups had broken up. So it was a tough finish, which cost 20-30 seconds on what would otherwise have been a reasonable time for me by recent standards. That said, I have run 28.00 on the 5 mile course here in the past, so there's still plenty of room for improvement.

Nant Peris loop

Peaks: Elidir Fawr, Y Garn
Area: Glyderau, Eryri
Blasts of wind shook the Vags hut all night, and prospects were grim this morning with the clag down and rain sweeping up the Pass in time-honoured fashion. Nothing unusual, however, so we (me, Peter, Steve) set off for the quarries after a convivial evening following the Fowler lecture in Capel. My idea was to avoid the full-frontal climb up Elidir by trotting past Twll Mawr then up the giant incline through the quarries to gain the open hill below Elidir Fach. The wind was howling up here, misty and wet. The final slog up Elidir Fawr wasn't too bad and we got to the summit in exactly an hour despite the circuitous route. From here, slippery and slow progress along the Pedol race route, skirting Foel Goch to gain the climb up Y Garn. A nice tailwind in places, although it was cold and wet in running gear, so we pelted off the summit down to Llyn y Cwn. We then took the excellent path slanting back to Nant Peris. If I've done this before, it must have been decades ago as I had no memory of it. Despite constant rain and mist, it was hugely enjoyable, runnable and grassy in places, scrambly and awkward in others. After following the banks of the stream, it drops down to the base of Nant Peris, and a roadside path leads back to the village and the hut. Dried out in Pete's Eats for lunch before the drive home.

North Wales XC championship

Race: North Wales XC Champs, Northop (10k)
Time/Position: 39.30 (17th from 54)
My worst ever position at the champs, and the first time I have failed to win anything in my age category. This was not entirely due to slowness, however, as the field seemed pretty strong. I can't remember ever racing the champs at Northop before, although I must have done the Rhug circuit five or six times. It was an excellent route, comparable to Rhug in the sense that it is pretty long for a cross-country, with four large looping laps of the college grounds - great views over the Dee estuary to the Wirral and Liverpool. Gary Norgrove and I had a grand old battle again, as we did at Aintree, level pegging until the last lap when I was able to pull away slightly. I didn't even count in the first six Buckley finishers, although I did for the Veterans: we narrowly won the team prize.

Nos Galan

Race: Nos Galan elite male race (5k)
Time/Position: 17.45 (57 from 149 [2nd V45])
A wonderful celebration of the eighteenth century athlete Guto Nyth Bran, who was so fast 'he could catch a bird in flight'. Dad and I have talked about going down to this unique race for years, so it was very nice to finally get to Mountain Ash this New Year's Eve. It's a long way to go for a 5k but it was absolutely worth it - a brilliant atmosphere quite unlike any of the other 530+ races I have done: a night-time circuit round a distinctive valleys town, with big enthusiastic crowds and fireworks beforehand. After a coffee in a tiny cafe, we watched the junior races and mum and dad got a great viewing spot near the start. The atmosphere builds, with the mystery runner lighting the torch, excellent fireworks, and a touch of tension in the air - the field for the elite race is obviously very strong. I felt pretty good off the back of the handicap race two days ago and a recent return to informal speedwork. The race takes three laps of the town centre circuit, which heads out to the Bailey's Arms at the far end of town, rounds a tight turn and then runs back to the main square with the Guto statue which is the race's epicentre. The crowd and atmosphere here was tremendous, with a loop round the main road and back out again. My pace stayed fairly steady and I felt controlled and comfortable throughout, more so than at the handicap (virtually identical times) so I wonder whether I should have pushed a little more. I would have been first V50 had I been five months older, and indeed first V40 had I been five years younger (!), but had to settle for 2nd V45 on the night. A great way to end the year.

Deeside handicap

'Race': Deeside handicap 5k
Time/Position: 17.20
It's been a few years since I turned out for this Christmas informal handicap so it was good to be back on a speed session perfectly placed three days after Round the Walls and two days before Nos Galan. The route round the industrial estates and beside the Dee is fast and flat and I finished mid-table in the handicap, fifth fastest finisher.

Round the Walls race

Race: Round the Walls Chester (4m+)
Time/Position: 26.06 (14th from 440 [2nd V45])
My 9th or 10th time at Round the Walls, and I have never done the same route twice! It must be a nightmare to organise, with the constant work on the walls combined with weather conditions. The Bridge Street crossing has recently closed so I knew a variant was likely: sadly, however, it just doubled back after King Charles' Tower, heading down the ramp and back along the canal path, a deep trench at this point. This meant the race missed the best bits over Eastgate and down towards Handbridge, although at the bowling green it headed back to the walls up steep steps by Bonewaldesthorne's Tower and back along to the Roodee. Both sections on the Roodee were muddy and very slippery in my racing flats, like Bambi on Ice, losing lots of time. The drizzle, persistent at the start, eased a little during the race to give a dry finish and family walk back to the car.

Tegid Way

The traditional pre-Christmas outing, and a very good one this year. The Tegid Way is a fairly new 18 mile waymarked route that links Cynwyd with Bala, travelling west the whole way albeit by a highly indirect and winding route that avoids all main roads and embraces the best scenery. Jez and I met Peter in Bala, then drove back to start from Cynwyd via a giant dogleg that heads away from Bala and up to the Berwyn ridge and Pen Bwlch Llandrillo. This is a long but gradual climb, ideal for me as I had gone over on my kneecap on the steps down to Gwernymynydd on Friday night - it was a little sore on the descents. Just below the bwlch, the route heads down another superb track to Llandrillo with great views west - cloudy with intermittent sunbursts. From Llandrillo it finally begins to take a more direct route, across fields and then back over the Dee to gain a long and unexpected climb up a steep minor road to eventually gain the quiet village of Llandderfel. Beautiful scenery throughout this section, all obscure: in fact I'm not sure I have ever been along some of these paths or roads before. Finally, Llyn Tegid comes into view - although there were still several detours above the main road on the northern side, and all the way round the edge of Bala, before we got there (2.47 from Cynwyd). A drink in Stori was an excellent way to end an excellent day.

Marchlyn horseshoe

Peaks: Carnedd y Filiast, Mynydd Perfedd, Elidir Fawr
Area: Glyderau, Eryri
After doing this route as a hill-walk with the scouts a couple of years ago, I'd squirrelled it away as a nice shortish run. It was the perfect option today: a cold, crisp winter morning, heading home from Beaumaris. It seemed likely to be tricky conditions high up, with a bitter windchill and 'icy' snow, so I felt the Carneddau race route (my original plan) might be unwise. I parked in Deiniolen and jogged up the very long tarmac road towards Marchlyn. You can park much higher up, but I felt the need for more mileage. I broke off to join the obvious snaking path (Minffordd) that slants leftwards to gain the shallow col below Filiast and the hill that marks the true start of the Glyder ridge. The normal path up Filiast was problematic: ferocious windchill, scoured, fully iced-up over a couple of inches of snow. Tricky in old Inov8s, as was the awkward bouldery summit (47 mins from Deiniolen). But the onward route to Mynydd Perfedd was superb - the sun breaking through banks of cloud above Glyder Fawr and superb views to the glistening white Carneddau. The wind dropped a little, and Elidir Fawr looked very inviting in the sunshine with its curving ridge. I kept to the ridge crest on perfect virgin snow. Huge banks of black cloud over Snowdon but the sun peeked through. From the summit, I descended direct - this was OK at first as the snow was soft and thick. Lower down, however, the slopes were scoured, hard ice. This was a real issue, and I actually had to retreat from the direct line to the lake. I found a gentler route down but still had to kick steps until the angle eased. Fast running all the way back to Deiniolen from the top lake (1.43 in total). This followed my usual 12 mile loop of the Beaumaris hinterland, and preceded a 14 mile Eglwyseg run the next day.

Nant y Pandy Parkrun

'Race': Nant y Pandy Parkrun (5k)
Time/Position: 19.39 (2nd from 38)
I had no idea that a delightful hidden valley lurked in the middle of Llangefni. It was reminiscent of Fairy Glen or Nant Gwynant and was a genuine surprise. We were on our annual trip to Henllys, so this was an ideal way for both of us to get a Saturday run in. The route takes the tightly defined wooded valley of the Cefni river before opening out to a broader valley with nice scenery. This was much more exposed, into a strong headwind, and leads eventually to the turn-around point on the shores of Llyn Cefni. One young runner was miles ahead, and I was effectively running on my own with the 3rd runner a fair way behind. The return was great, a slight tailwind, a few steep climbs and flowing descents. Not the quickest course, perhaps, but certainly one of the most enjoyable parkruns around.

Ellesmere Port Parkrun

'Race': Ellesmere Port Parkrun (5k)
Time/Position: 19.46 (4th from 66)
Given the recent rain, this was surprisingly hard going. It is almost entirely flat, but also almost entirely cross-country, two laps across wet fields and woods in Whitby Park. My shoes, with worn soles, were not ideal as I slipped and slid round sections of the course (which I had never done before).

Tal y Fan from Conwy

Peaks: Tal y Fan
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
A reprise of a run last done many years ago. Since then, I've done multiple combinations of routes up this little hill, from Aber, from the Conwy Valley and, of course, from Porthmadog in July! This particular route leaves the kitchen and walls, then heads up the Hendre road all the way to the top: this is tough but runnable all the way. The tiny road then gives way to a rocky track below Llangelynin church, then over the fields to join the valley. I then cut directly across to gain the wall, which leads steeply over several little tops to the trig point (58 mins from the house). It was cloudy and cool, good running conditions. I descended due north from the summit, straight down to gain a very good track leading east to the standing stones below the quarry. From here, I picked up my favourite tracks leading past the stone circle to Sychnant and back to Conwy in time for lunch. A lovely outing.

Birkenhead 5.5m

Race: Birkenhead 5.5m (Border League race 3)
Time/Position: 32.10 (44th from 345)
Earlier this year I recorded my slowest ever time on this very familiar four-lap circuit. A minute quicker than that today, so at least I am going in the right direction (although still 30 places and over a minute slower than my best). I have done the race at least eight times, and always quite enjoy it despite the laps, as I like the park. It was icy in places today, and I slipped on the tight corner after the pond on one of the loops. Crisp sunshine throughout, and we popped to Bold Street by train immediately after the race.

Erddig Parkrun

'Race': Erddig Parkrun
Time/Position: 19.37 (2nd from 165)
Quite a contrast to last Saturday's pressure, a nice trot around a route I hadn't done before. It is one of the better Parkruns, a really nice loop around the enormous Erddig grounds, starting in front of the stately home and pelting through thick mud to gain a mini-loop before heading back to the house, and out for a long lap through the main parkland out towards Rhostyllen. It was drizzly, dank and misty throughout: wet and awkward underfoot in places. After a mile or so, I moved into the lead and stayed there until just before the final steep climb to the finish. Another runner had stayed close behind (we were a minute clear of third place) but I couldn't keep up with him as he pulled ahead by 11 seconds. A tad tired after last night's Collie run, but a really enjoyable course which we'll definitely revisit.

Carneddau run

Peaks: Pen Llithrig y Wrach
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
A reprise of a longish run I did this time last year, with a few refinements to improve it. I dubbed it 'Pen Llithrig the hard way' last time, and it certainly makes the most of a small peak, starting out at sea level in Tal y Bont, then heading up the very steep road into Cwm Eigiau. This takes around 35 minutes of steady running, and was enlivened by superb autumn conditions - mist clearing the valley and spectacular leaf colour all around. The higher peaks were snow-covered and it remained pretty cold all day. The route levels off for the long run up Cwm Eigiau, which is always wonderful, one of my favourite places. I detoured to Llyn Eigiau, which was unusually still giving superb photo opportunities: like glass. Then it was back to the track, staying on it past a derelict farmhouse to the back of the cwm. Then comes the savage climb to Bwlch y Tri Marchog: 30 minutes of vertical bog, moss-hauling and fence pulling. As a recent Strava convert, I later discovered this was a segment, and the fastest known time (although only two records, not surprising as it is a ridiculous route). From the bwlch, the 'normal' climb up to the summit is easier and much more sensible. Wonderful views over Ogwen and Llewellyn in constantly changing cloud conditions: good snow cover higher up but just patches where I was. Then, it was down the ridge, familiar from all the Paddy reccies this year, cutting off too early for the shore of Llyn Cowlyd, another of my favourite spots. This is awkward but quite quick, and I pelted along the lakeside, to gain the pipe and the long run down to pick up the Pipe Dream climb through Dolgarrog woods back to Tal y Bont - 24k, 900m, in 2.44.

British and Irish Masters

Race: British and Irish International Masters cross country 8k (Aintree, Merseyside)
Time/Position: 29.55 (85th from 88)
Seven years has elapsed since I last ran for Wales at the International Championships. That was Belfast in 2012, I was running 34 minute 10k's at the time, and still only had eight or nine behind me. So I was under no illusions here: I was just a replacement, certainly one of the oldest in the field (a big span, from 35-50, in this race) and fully expected to finish last. The race itself (in the middle of the famous Grand National at Aintree) was the flattest cross country course I have ever seen, which just meant the pace was even higher. My tactics were obvious: just try to hold onto the back of the pack. Easier said than done, and I quickly found myself dropped off the back as the pace is blistering from the off, and no quarter is given, nobody ever slackens off. I managed to hold on though, without drifting too far back, and by the end of the second lap was clawing back a little. Each lap was 2k and I tried to up the pace on the third, passing two and catching up to a group of four Irish and Northern Irish runners. They were just ahead on the final lap, but I didn't quite have the pace to pull ahead. So, a predictably poor showing, but at least I wasn't lapped and didn't finish last. My plan was always to be running much faster when I turn 50 next year, and to be picked for Wales in 2020. So this came a year too early, when at the top of the age category, and I suspect that for all those reasons, after 530+ races this will perhaps always be memorable as the hardest race I ever do! A huge honour to run for Wales again, and a remarkable event that really puts everybody in their place - the standard is quite incredible. If all goes to plan, I hope to be at Dublin next year.

Kelsterton 4.5m

Race: Deeside 4.3m (Border League race 2)
Time/Position: 26.19 (65th from 446)
Still a little jetlagged, but given the location I decided to have a quick blast at the second race of the season. It wasn't too much of a surprise when I started to struggle on the second part of the steep climb from Kelsterton. Afterwards, as the road weaves around and starts to descend, I picked up a few places initially before blowing completely as we re-entered the college grounds. I lost a lot of places and limped around the track to finish well down the field again.

Uisangbong and Yongchulbong

Peaks: Uisangbong (540m), Yongchulbong (571m)
Area: Bukhansan, South Korea
Although only small, Yongchulbong's attractive profile and interesting, scrambly ascent just about qualified it as the 50th overseas peak of my 50th year. Criteria for selection: nothing on the British mainland, nothing I’d done before, all had to be notable in some way. A few were technical, some remote, some shapely, some obscure, some popular. The 50 were as follows:
Feb: Beenkeragh, Carrauntoohill, Cnoc na Peiste, Brandon, Purple Mountain (Reeks/Dingle, Ireland)
Mar: Roque del Conde, Roque Imoque, Roque los Brezos, Alto de Guajara, Pico Viejo, Montana Guama, Pico la Vera, Risco Blanco, Pico la Mesa (Tenerife)
Apr: Zoljin Kuk, Pasji Klanac, Babin Kuk, Crni Vrh, Anica Kuk (Velebit, Croatia)
May: Clach Glas, Blaven, Bidean Druim nan Ramh, Sgurr nan Eag (Skye)
Jul: Corno Neri, Pizzo Recastello, Pizzo di Coca, Monte Visolo, Presolana Occidentale, Monte Misma (Italian Alps)
Jul: Gigilos, Volakias, Psari, Mavri, Melindaou, Strifomadhi, Psilafi, Psiloritis, Stolistra, Agathias, Vouloumenou, Skoutsio Korifi (Crete)
Sep: Tskhakvzagari, Koruldi, Chubedishi, Zuruldi (Caucasus, Georgia)
Nov: Dobongsan, Podae, Jubong, Baegundae, Yongchulbong (Bukhansan, South Korea) 
I'd spent most of the day getting as close to the North Korean border as I could by public transport (the DMZ was closed for the whole week I was in Korea). I got to the end of the line at Munsan and walked over the river for a view to the north, then took the metro all the way back to Gupabal where - after eight freshly steamed (jjin-mandu) dumplings - I set off from Bukhansanseong to Uisangbong. It was late, after 3pm, and this proved an inspired choice as it is short but very steep and interesting, bordering on via ferrata terrain in numerous places with ropes, open rock and slabby sections. Both these peaks are impressive spires from the road below and the route is ranked 'expert' by the local grading system. I got to the summit in 31.45 which proved to be an annoying seven seconds slower than Strava's fastest known time (partly because I had to negotiate a group of Korean soldiers on the final staircase to the summit - if I'd realised I might have pushed a little harder). It was a beautiful spot, with soft afternoon sunshine, quite a contrast from my previous two visits. Delightful views over to Baegundae and the autumnal wooded valleys below. On the other side, the endless sprawl of northern Seoul emerging from the haze. The terrain was less awkward for the continuation ridge down to the col of Gasagangdamman gate. From here, more rocky sections led to the higher peak of Yongchulbong; and the satisfaction of a memorable year of mountain activity. I spent a bit of time taking it all in, and had the entire mountain to myself which must be pretty unusual. The light and views of the wooded ridges were glorious, and very distinctive. Then it was back down the little rocky pitches to the gate above the Gungnyeongsa temple with its huge golden buddha. I'd already visited that valley on my Baegundae traverse, so instead I took the next valley down to Baekhwasa. It was a little late, but I was still amazed by this. I saw nobody at all, and the path was even a little indistinct in places! Beautiful woodland scenery again, though, and I kept up a decent pace. After I got back to the main Bukhansanseong I decided to forego the bus and run all the way back along the suburban roads to the metro station at Gupabal. This worked very well (although I had a nosebleed) and I finally stopped for makgeolli and tissues at a little store near the station.

Baegundae traverse

Peaks: Baegundae (836m)
Area: Bukhansan, South Korea
As the highest peak in the Bukhansan, Baegundae was a must, although I didn't realise it could be conveniently traversed until I was on it. I'd enjoyed a few urban runs around Seoul since my Dobongsan outing (and the second city of Busan), but was looking forward to returning to the mountains. Sadly, the peaks were shrouded in mist as I entered the park after a short tube and bus ride: this was the only time I saw them claggy and was a bit unlucky. It was atmospheric, however, as I ran up the metalled road which gives an easy introduction. Above, the direct route is steep, just as steep as Dobongsan, with just as much ironmongery. Being midweek, and early, it was much quieter. Large rock walls of Yeomchobong towered above as height is gained, the mist lending an atmospheric feel, then steps lead to the pronounced Baekwun Bongammun with mist swirling around. From here, a surprisingly steep finish up the rocky ridge, which would be proper mountaineering if it wasn't for the fences! If you ignored the crowds, and the ironmongery, the weather rendered it distinctly Alpine - cold and misty. Around 40 mins to the top from the end of the tarmac. A brief and spectacular clearance from the summit, which I shared with only two or three others - which must be about as empty as it ever gets. The clearance continued, with views over the superb granite dome of Insubong, as I descended back to the Baekwun pass. Instead of continuing the direct descent of the traverse line, I prolonged my time up here (as I was enjoying myself) taking the obvious traverse path which takes a wonderful panoramic catwalk just below the summit of Maengyondae. The sun started to peek through, and I reached another obvious col (Yongammun, below its eponymous peak, which was now bathed in glorious sunshine). I opted to cut left here - on an amazingly empty path through beautiful woodland, its autumnal colours set off to perfection by the sun. It was developing into a stunning afternoon, and I wished I was still up on the peaks. Instead, I ran down to the large Doseonsa temple complex, feeling good, and continued down to Ui and the eastern entrance to the park (1.48 or so for the full traverse). I had gimbap for lunch, then got the metro from Bukhansanul to Digital Media City - which was quite a contrast!

Dobongsan

Peaks: Jaubong (740m), Jubong, Podae
Area: Dobongsan, Bukhansan, South Korea
The world's busiest national park, with five million visitors a year, Bukhansan is just a metro ride from the centre of Seoul. I was curious to see it at the weekend, as I have always felt Snowdon has a case for the world's most climbed mountain, and only the Tatra has come close in my previous three decades of mountain travel. Having said that, I opted for Dobongsan, the northern area, as I felt the crowds on Baegundae may just have been too overwhelming. It was certainly a novelty: I've climbed multiple thousands of peaks, but nothing quite like this. After leaving the metro station, some very impressive peaks fringe the skyline. Then a warren of market stalls, all selling fantastic food for hiking picnics: I went for the classic, gimbap with a side of kimchi. At the entrance is an Alpine museum, which I poked round in happily before starting a low jogging pace upwards, weaving through hundreds (thousands actually) of local hikers. The route from Dobong is surprisingly steep, but mostly runnable, and takes a mixture of rocky staircases and forest paths to gain an impressive slab of granite (Madangbawi) with views over northern Seoul. It was a tad hazy but dry and warm, with beautiful autumnal colours, the best time of year to be here. Above was a vague wooded ridge, with the superb south face of Seoninbong to the right (climbers were on the good looking beige granite, highly reminiscent of Cornwall, Arran or Chamonix). From here, an actual staircase leads up to a narrow col: all very novel. If the hardware wasn't there, it would actually be a fairly challenging peak, perhaps a grade II scramble. As it is, the main peak involves a steep final climb facilitated by metal barriers: fairly exposed at the top (56 mins from the gimbap stall) and a small summit rammed with hikers. It was all pretty unique, as I had hoped it might be. Views down to Seoul were rather hazy, but the surrounding ridges were beautiful: outcrops of granite and dwarf trees, like a Japanese landscape painting. I fought my way back through the crowds then headed up a nearby knoll for a memorable lunch of homemade gimbap and kimchi: outstanding, although perhaps not the ideal running food, and my stomach rebelled for the jog across to the neighbouring - much quieter - peak of Jubong. This was a huge contrast, although not far to the south, and some open rock gained the summit. Then it was back to the knoll, and what I hoped was the ridgeline to Podae. I started up this, but was essentially prevented from doing so by a ranger, who seemed to suggest it was verboten. Instead, I took a meandering alternative, which regained the ridge and led to Podae: which has a kind of viewing platform at the summit, like something from an African safari. I took a direct line down steep steps with lovely autumnal scenes; this valley was steep-sided and much less busy, until the Manworam temple is reached. Soft buddhist chants then accompanied the rest of the run and I rejoined the ascent path lower down. After a rest in a truly delightful glade, spectacular autumn colours, I did as the locals did: a beer in a convenience store, and then a truly memorable hour as I drank a bottle of makgeolli, the local raw rice wine with a chalky white colour, in a kind of beer garden with multiple tables. Seeing me drinking the local brew, two different people shared their food with me as everybody relaxed after their Saturday hike.

Cardiff Parkrun

'Race': Cardiff Parkrun (5k)
Time/Position: 18.09 (9th from 405 [1st age-graded])
A weekend in Cardiff coinciding with dire weather: torrential and continuous rain, with the Taff very high indeed (although not quite over its banks, which was fortunate as this route takes the Taff trail). I ran north along the trail initially for a warm-up, having done 44 miles of it during the Brecon-Cardiff ultra this February. The race itself takes the trail south into Blackweir Fields and Bute Park - the reverse of the Cardiff 10k (which I remember fondly from 2010, as it was the first time I'd represented North Wales and what was then a big pb, 34.45). By contrast, this was my worst position ever on a parkrun, although that is more a reflection of the strength of the field than the time, which I was fairly pleased with. Potentially, a very fast course - flat throughout, although wet and slippery today.

Carneddau run

Peaks: Drum, Foel Fras
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
After dropping Kate off in Llandudno, I drove to Aber and began the familiar climb up the road towards Drum. This is a 5 mile constant climb, and I felt tired throughout. Progress was slow, and the weather worse than forecast: claggy with some drizzle. I have done this climb many, many times however, and always enjoy it. The top of Drum was a little hostile, although I've been up in far worse, and this continued for the long haul up Foel Fras. From here, I decided to drop down the very awkward slopes down to the upper Cwm Afon Goch. This is a wild and trackless place, with tussocks and bog, and no path. Even lower down this tight cwm is awkward. Above the falls, I picked up the pace and continued the run all the way down to the coast and Menai Strait: 20k, just over two hours.

Colwyn Bay XC

Race: Colwyn Bay 6m+ (North Wales XC league, race 2)
Time/Position: 41.40 (34th from 181 [3rd V45])
I have fond memories of a one-off fell race called the Fox Trot that was staged across these hills (a mile inland from Eirias Park) in 2010. Staging an XC fixture here was inevitably going to put it in the 'hilly' category and having missed it last year I was keen to sample the course. We have had a very wet October, so the ground was saturated, very muddy in places. I went for spikes, which weren't ideal on the cobbled track along the base of the valley after an initial loop to spread out the field. The race then takes on a long climb, more akin to a fell race than a standard XC, very steep in places before weaving through woods to gain a farm then a glorious descent with the sea in front. I remembered this from the Fox Trot - and for XC it really helps recovery before the second lap. I tend to struggle with the constant changes of pace that characterise most XC courses so quite enjoyed the unusual nature of this route. It was also, of course, a mud-bath throughout.

Caernarfon 10k

Race: Caernarfon 10k (Borders League, Race 1)
Time/Position: 37.22 (55th from 355)
The standard of the league is definitely going up. Just a few years ago, I finished 13th with a time of 35.52 on this course, probably my favourite of all the BL routes. Today, 50 runners went under 37 minutes. As such, I am quite pleased with the time, as it is more or less where I want to be at the moment, although I'm hoping to be 90 seconds quicker by my 50th birthday in May. I would (just) have finished first V50 today, as it happens, but was 6th or 7th V45! We set off along the seafront, which I always like with views to Yr Eifl and the Menai Strait, I felt more comfortable than I have done, after a little bit of recent speedwork as I transition from ultras and mountaineering. With the hilly return through the interior, I couldn't quite stick to sub-6 minute mile pace and slipped back a tad, although never too disastrously. Very wet towards the finish, and torrential shortly afterwards.

Wirral MT Series, Arrowe Park

Race: Wirral Multi Terrain Series (Arrowe Park 7k: Race 4)
Time/Position: 28.14 (32nd from 196)
I find it hard to believe I won the V45 category in this series in 2015. The standard of competition is now frighteningly high: even if I had better form I think I'd be struggling to place well. The 4th or 5th time I've done this particular fixture, and perhaps the muddiest after a day of rain. Wore my old shoes, which wasn't a good idea, sliding around on the fields in places. I always enjoy it though, as the light fades through the woods on the second lap.

Wepre parkrun

'Race': Wepre Parkrun
Time/Position: 20.20 (4th from 136)
Not quite as slow as I was last time (a full 5 seconds quicker!) but still my second slowest 5k ever. After the Collie run yesterday, and with the Caucasus still in my legs, it all felt a bit of a struggle on the second lap.

Chkuthi and Zuruldi

Peaks: Kakhri (1952m), Zuruldi (2463m), Mentashi (2455m)
Area: Caucasus, Svaneti, Georgia
The sheer scale of the vertical intervals, combined with the altitude, had taken it out of me a bit. Shame, because I quite fancied trying to get up Pik Komsomol today, which I could see from my balcony. After another mammoth breakfast, courtesy of Nana at the guesthouse (chatting to two Spanish climbers this morning - they hadn't got up a single mountain in the two weeks they'd spent in Svaneti). The morning was stunning: crystal clear, and the air was cool as I took the tracks east of Mestia. The start of this route is shared with the famous Mestia-Ushguli four day trek, so several couples with ludicrously huge rucsacks were struggling upwards as I skipped past in my running shoes. Why anybody would do this these days is completely beyond me, with accommodation options everywhere and no obvious need for much equipment, but you see it all the time - I haven't a clue what they deem necessary. Anyway, the track gave way to delightful meadows and apple orchards, and the views up to the Chalaadi glacier and Ushba were predictably breath-taking, a wonderful backdrop which constantly stayed in view. After a steep section through forest, the path diverged, and I guessed the route to Chkuthi took a narrow path across a meadow to a lovely little ridge poised above a ridiculously scenic side valley. This led up towards Banguriani peak and was like something from a fantasy novel: autumnal colours in the woodland, little fields, some Svan farmers hay-baling with wooden sledges, rushing torrents. I continued upwards, not entirely sure of the onward route, and stopped to admire the view to Ushba. Round a corner to the end of the Chkuthi ridge at Kakhri, which guards the entrance to the Adishi valley. After gaining the ridge and views east, I descended all the way back to Mestia and took the cable car up to Hatsivali. Sadly the continuation chairlift up Zuruldi was broken, so a horrible track through the woods was in order. This was the lowpoint of the trip as I was tired and, unlike everything else I'd done, it was tedious and pointless. It just felt like an Alpine ski resort. At the top, however, was a ridge with low woodland and more delightful meadows. I walked eastwards to the highpoint (which is clearly not the mast

marked as Mentashi on the map). I sat on a little vantage point looking out towards Ushguli and Shkhara, which was mostly in the mist. Then it was back to Mestia for an enormous kubdari - a Svan speciality, basically a meat pie with various spices. Next day, it poured down without a break, and I headed away from Svaneti to Zugdidi.

Chubedishi

Peaks: Chubedishi (3015m) 

Area: Ushguli, Caucasus, Svaneti, Georgia
Ushguli is off the scale, a truly stunning location - Europe's highest settlement (if you think this is Europe, that is). Points of comparison in my own experience are the remoter parts of Nepal, or perhaps the Atlas Mountains: ancient organic stone buildings, narrow muddy alleys, livestock, high peaks, and of course the medieval Svan towers that reach their apogee here. I didn't think I'd be able to get up here, but it was relatively simple - a two hour mashrutka journey through stunning villages and landscapes until the road gives way to a bone-shaking dirt track above the Enguri gorge. I'd watched the film 'Dede' (set in Ushguli) the night before, so it was all rather exciting as we drove up the higher valley with the stupendous 5100m wall of Shkhara (Georgia's highest peak) just emerging from the mist at the valley's end. On either side of the upper village (there are four tiny hamlets up here) were two peaks. The driver then told us we had longer in the village than I'd expected, so suddenly an enormous potential bonus presented itself - perhaps I could get up a peak in this stunning location. I had no details but the right-hand (northerly) mountain looked the most feasible, with a ridge leading to the summit (unlike the enormously bulky mountain opposite). I walked through the atmospheric alleys of the upper village (although this is the most touristy of the four), and spied a path off to the right. This did indeed lead up the obvious forepeak, and after a steep haul, to my delight it seemed to continue up to the grassy ridge. It was perfect: a notable peak, very obvious from the village, in the most wonderful imaginable location - an excellent addition to the '50@50'. I trotted up the ridge, with wild views down to the right, Zeshko, and the Russian border - completely wild and uninhabited. To the left, the trekkers valley up to the Shkhara glacier. The peak itself kept emerging then disappearing, as well (perhaps) as Dykh-Tau beyond. Once or twice, it peeked through a hole in dark clouds - absolutely stunning, reminding me of the cinematography in 'Dede'. I left my sac below the much steeper summit cone (still grassy). This necessitated a detour contouring right to gain the final summit ridge, which was broad and led to a large cairn. Fabulous views, despite the cloud and mist, with grassy ridges in the foreground and savage ice peaks beyond. On the descent, which was quick and easy, wonderful views over Ushguli and its valley. I then had plenty of time to wander round all the villages - the bottom two are entirely undeveloped, still in their original medieval state. The top one has some modest cafes, at one of which I enjoyed a beer with ojakhuri (pork, chicken, chilli, butter, potatoes). Later, I had ostri and chvistari after the bumpy return to Mestia.

Koruldi to Guli Pass

Peaks: Tskhakvzagari (2359m), Koruldi (3328m)

Area: Caucasus, Svaneti, Georgia
I have wanted to visit Svaneti for many years: it has always seemed the archetypal hidden mountain land, high up in the Caucasus. It's a fascinating region more generally, which I scratched the surface of in previous brief trips: 2011 and 2012. After a night in Kutaisi, I took the long Mashrutka journey through Zugdidi along the Abkhazian border to the Engudi gorge. Above here, eventually, the characteristic medieval towers of Svaneti mark the entrance to this magical environment - fields and fertile valleys, huge peaks. I stayed in a guesthouse in Mestia with fabulous views to Banguriani - it had a nice, albeit basic, 'mountain hut' atmosphere which I quite liked. This morning dawned superbly clear, and the village was deserted as I walked through it at 7.30am, buying a huge freshly cooked shota puri (tandoor) bread - too big to fit in my sac - for a few pence and climbing the cobbled streets towards the path up to the giant cross visible from most parts of the village. The route up was surprisingly steep in places, through thick woods with views to the magnificent pyramidal snow peak of Tetnuldi at the head of the valley. The leaves were just beginning to turn in the autumnal cool, and it really was a magnificent place to be. After an hour of solid effort, taking all the direct variations, I emerged on the undulating plateau above - infuriatingly, next to a jeep track. The views were stunning, however: directly across to the peaks of Kabardino-Balkaria, the Russian republic across the border, with the white dome of Elbrus immediately obvious. Closer to hand, Latraldashi, Tikhtengen and Banguriani towered above the Chalaadi valley to the right. Ushba, however, was hidden in some very localised mist. I walked to the giant cross which marks the 'summit' of Tskhakvzagari at 2359m, although in reality this is just the end of a long spur. It looks like a peak from Mestia, though, which I suppose is the reason it is a named peak. I sat on the grass for a few glorious minutes, enjoying the perfect temperatures and looking down to the Svan villages in the valley and the summits of Mekhnazi and Lahili. The light remained wonderful as I climbed the broad ridge above - this was a little tedious, but I reached the side path to the Guli Pass fairly quickly. This looked good, but my plan to climb Guli on the left seemed a little underambitious - it was just a spur on the ridge, not much of a peak given the magnificent surroundings. Instead, high above, was another peak. It looked red and shattered, but there was an obvious path up it, and it seemed certain to provide close-up views of Ushba - which at this point was still draped in cloud. I thought I'd take the chance, as the steep climb gave access to the famous Koruldi Lakes. These are shallow pools, but they provide a stunning foreground to the jagged peaks of the Russian border. They are popular, but I had it all to myself. Above, a little ridge led to a vague gravel track zig-zagging upwards. The altitude really kicked in now, at 3000m, and I had at least 1500m of climbing in my legs. I nibbled on my tonis puri, and left the track at the steep scree slope that was so obvious from below. There was a vague path up this, but it took some finding to make this negotiable. The cloud was peeling away from the red ridge above, however, and I began to feel that views of Ushba might be imminent. Nothing could prepare me for the sight that greeted me as I emerged, however. A loose scramble, distinctly unpleasant, led steeply up the final shattered cone of rock to the ridge, and then a stunning, instant view straight across to Ushba, one of the world's most dramatic, recognisable, dangerous and beautiful mountains. Its twin peaks were redolent of Pedraforca in Catalonia, or Pic du Midi in the Pyrenees, but twice as big. I have seen a lot of amazing sights in many mountain ranges over many years all over the world, but this was up there with the best of them: absolutely incredible, with tendrils of mist peeling away from the twin spires and plunging icefalls on either side. There are no obvious lines of weakness from this side. My more modest peak (Koruldi) lay up to the left, and a nice ridge led to a broader col before a final scrambly ridge up red, bouldery, shattered rock led to a small summit cross and cairn a little higher up. The view of Ushba from the true summit was even better, breath-taking and incredibly close. Of all my '50 at 50' special overseas mountains this year (46 done so far), I think this view exceeded that of Teide from Guajara, and the many, many others, as the finest of all. Both Ushba peaks were now visible, and as I descended I took some time to examine the peaks further east - stunning in every direction, just a little overshadowed by the mighty Ushba. The descent was far easier than the ascent, scree running in places, and I decided to extend the day by contouring the wonderful hillside directly across to the Guli Pass. This was wonderful - springy meadows, steppe buzzards overhead, water pipits below. There was no path (I was above the normal route) but it looked initially like I might be able to contour directly across. Sadly, however, I reached a broad river valley which was very steep, almost a gorge, and meant I had to descend to the normal path - steep and tiring. From here, I crossed the stream (awkward) and headed up to Guli before abandoning the attempt just below the pass when I realised I would be too late back if I carried on. The descent was steep but the weather stayed glorious - and I refuelled on the carb-heavy Lobiani (bean pie) in Lushqu Qor beer garden.

Wirral MT Series, Thurstaston

Race: Wirral Multi-Terrain Series (Race 2: Thurstaston 5m)
Time/Position: 30.30 (28th from 245)
Exactly the same position as last week although I felt a little better for this race, which is possibly my favourite of the four Wirral fixtures. It is another two-lap affair, dropping down to the beach with its big skies and views across the estuary. On the first lap, I tripped on an errant boulder, of which there are a few, cutting my knee. This knocked me back temporarily, but as the field opened out I began to pick up a few places and sustained the same modest speed on the second lap. The run-in along the cycle track always takes much longer than you might reasonably expect, and the finish is now next to the visitor centre up a little hill.

Ras Cyrn y Brain

Race: Cyrn y Brain fell race (7m/1300ft)
Time/Position: 52.44 (6th from 62)
Like an extended version of the Ponderosa hill race, this took in some very familiar ground and is an excellent runnable route. This is the third year it's been run, I think, but a first for me. I took it steady for the concrete climb up to Cyrn y Brain, with some fairly big gaps opening out between runners. This joins the long OD descent across the open moor on duck boards and heathery paths down to the World's End road: I was disappointingly slow on this section, and also for the mile or so down the tarmac to World's End. The race then takes the long contouring climb back up Cyrn y Brain, which eventually joins the narrow Ponderosa descent route (I remember doing this climb on a long run from Llandegla a couple of years ago). I made up some ground here, but couldn't catch Simon in front and he finished 30 second ahead after the quick dash down the rather painful concrete path to the finish near the Ponderosa. Nice weather throughout, relatively cool and clear, with fluffy clouds and views across to Snowdonia.

Wirral MT Series, Royden Park

Race: Wirral Multi-Terrain Series (Race 1: Royden Park 5m)
Time/Position: 31.22 (28th from 243)
Last time I did this race, in 2015, I had the Ben Nevis race descent in my legs and still remember a monstrous case of the DOMS as I hobbled round. No such excuses tonight, yet I was still two minutes slower! Still, I felt better than I have recently and did feel a tiny bit of speed returning at times. A huge field set off for a lap round the first field, so it was very crowded for the long lap which takes some narrow paths through the woods to gain the edge of the sandstone escarpment with views over the Dee to north Wales. Quite frustrating at times, especially on the rocky, sandy descent from the trigpoint on the miniature hill that marks the end of the climb. I made up some ground on the second lap but it was all a bit too late, with me a bit too slow, and struggling with the pace towards the end. Still, it feels really good to be back racing again, even if there is a lot of work to do. With luck, I'll be able to do three of this always excellent series this September.

Moelwyn Paddy leg

Peaks: Moel Siabod, Clogwyn Bwlch y Maen, Carnedd Cribau, Cerrig Cochion, Moel Meirch, Ysgafell Wen, Moel Llyn Cwn, Moel Druman, Allt Fawr, Foel Ddu, Moel yr Hydd, Moelwyn Bach, Craigysgafn, Moelwyn Mawr, Cnicht
Area: Moelwynion, Eryri
The third time I have done this most obscure and arduous of Snowdonian traverses this summer: I have no great desire to do it again for a while! On this occasion, I was supporting a Paddy Buckley attempt for the first time. As Paddy was one of my targets for this year of multiple mountains, I had mixed emotions as this summer has felt like 'now or never' for me to have a proper go at it before I switch back to normal running next year. However, you have to properly commit, and it definitely didn't feel appropriate to join another attempt when they've done all the organisation and got a team together. Instead, I wanted to properly support Hayley and Rich's attempt, so set off with them from Capel Curig at 10.30am for what proved a really enjoyable outing. An hour before, the rain was coming down in torrential sheets, but it cleared completely on the way up Siabod, and we reached the summit in 50 minutes from Capel. A light shower as we ran down the superb gentle ridge to the next two peaks, before the boggy and awkward section that ultimately leads to Cerrig Cochion. The terrain remains awkward over the rocks of Moel Meirch and Ysgafell Wen - there is never much climbing, but locating the true summits is tricky, and it is always arduous underfoot. We had a team of five in total, with two other support runners, and we made a good team - perfectly paced, around 20 minutes up on a 24-hour schedule, and all good company. After Ysgafell Wen, the terrain eases to excellent running out to Allt Fawr and then down to the water sources above Blaenau. Superb views, they couldn't have had better weather at this point - cool but clear. In the panic of the morning, I had neglected to pack any food for myself, and this became a bit of a problem on a 6.5 hour leg - it wasn't as if I could ask anybody for a bite! Moelwyn Bach brought back nice memories of our 'coast to coast' with Cardigan Bay glistening and Porthmadog bathed in sunshine. And then it was along the familiar ridge over rocky Craigysgafn to Moelwyn Mawr: more wonderful views as the clouds melted away from the Carneddau far to the north. It is a long and complex haul from Moelwyn Mawr to Cnicht, weaving through quarry workings, lumpy terrain and hidden lakes. We met Steve and Hazel here, and their bananas and cake was most welcome - because the direct assault up Cnicht follows. I reccied this in April (nobody in their right mind would ever do Cnicht from this side) and stuck to the contouring route I discovered, which works well. A long descent, rocky at first down the scrambly Croesor race route (my left knee a tad painful after the Beacons race) and then a long bouldery track which leads to a minor road and, eventually, Nantmor. I cooked soup, then drove Hayley's car back to Capel as they continued over the Hebog leg. So, mixed emotions: perhaps the Fellsman and Porthmadog-Conwy 'coast to coast' may have to stand as the high water marks of the last two 'distance years'!

Marian Bach climbing

Crag: Marian Bach, Llysfaen
Routes: High Speed Virgins (f5b:sec), Line Right of HSV (f5:sec), Tanfastic Variation (f5b:led), Tanfastic (f5:sec), Malibu (f5c:sec), Encierro de la Villavesa (f5b:led), Rocky Robin (f5:sec), Krakatwo-er (f5c:sec), Seren (f4:led)
On my last, and only, visit to this hidden crag, the routes had only just been put up. They now have names and grades and it is a nice, peaceful venue - ideal this morning, as I didn't have much time and it was very windy at nearby Castle Inn. Steve led a short new route on the left, then I led the un-named route up the left wall of the Tanfastic groove. This was steeper than it looked and enjoyable. Malibu takes a steep wall further right on big horizontal holds and is really nice, perhaps the best route here. I led the obvious right-left traverse using the same starting moves, and this also gave pleasant and worthwhile climbing, as did the obvious line of Rocky Robin. Some of these I'd done on my previous visit, some were new to me. The awkward wide crack of Krakatwoer was definitely familiar, but the easy route to its right was new. Back to Conwy for a picnic lunch.

Brecon Beacons fell race

Race: Brecon Beacons fell race (31k/4500ft/BL)
Peaks: Carn Pica, Waun Rydd, Cribyn, Pen y Fan, Corn Du, Twyn Mwyalchod, Pant y Creigiau, Tor y Foel
Time/Position: 3.53.28 (21st from 69)
The missing piece of the jigsaw, in the sense that this was the only long Welsh fell race I hadn't done. It takes a grand, sweeping loop of the long valley that curves west above Talybont. We camped in a nice wooded glade by the youth hostel, just below the Taff Trail that I enjoyed so much on February's Brecon-Cardiff ultra. The day dawned hot, and became very hot - 27c in fact, and it was obvious that the crux would be coping with it on a course with no shelter and no water. The race starts below the reservoir, just above the village, and heads up the road and obvious track to the start of the broad ridge over Twyn Du that eventually leads up to Carn Pica, the most easterly of the Beacons. This is a sharp little climb at the end, and a great viewpoint in all directions. My relaxed approach meant I could take pictures and enjoy it. A lot of height had already been gained, and a very helpful cooling breeze was gratefully received after a sweaty and long climb. The ridgeline then curves invitingly towards the distant main Beacons summits. For such a hot day, the clarity of light was wonderful - and the running superb along the main path above the northern escarpment (Craig Cwm Cynwyn). The race contours Fan y Big to the col below Cribyn - and then a short, steep climb gains the nice summit ridge of Cribyn before another steep descent with superb views of Pen y Fan, now directly in front. It was such a stunning day, and these peaks are so accessible from the Storey Arms, that there were hundreds of people on the tops - it was actually quite hard to find the marshall on Pen y Fan, and Corn Du (just a matter of minutes away). Only the 4th or 5th time I've been up the main Beacons summits. From the top of Corn Du comes a very long level ridge south-east to Rhiw yr Ysgyfarnog above the Gwaun Taf valley (which joins Taf Fawr at Merthyr). This ridge, like the earlier one, is runnable although awkward and bouldery in places - the sandstone slabs reminiscent of certain Peak races like the Roaches. The next checkpoint was at the trig on Twyn Mwyalchod, then came a steep descent where I took a bad, indirect line, immediately losing five places (I was 25th on Corn Du). Then it was down to a waterpoint below Upper Neuadd, the only water on the route, before the airless trudge through Taf Fechan forest. The breeze gone, it was very hot work, and got worse as we gained the tarmac (the same road to Merthyr that I ran down from the highpoint on Brecon-Cardiff). The climb up Pant y Creigiau was probably the crux of the route, and I took it too far left, losing ground again. After the summit, I could see Tor y Foel, the final peak, and felt the end was in sight. In reality, the topography on this side of the valley means it takes forever to reach. It heads over Darren Fawr via multiple bumps and hidden valleys. I made up some ground on two local runners, which helped for the route-finding here, which seems bewildering as the best lines weave left and right, seemingly avoiding the direct route to Tor y Foel. Great views down to the lakes and across to the main Beacons summits, all looking very distant, and in front to the east was the Usk valley and Black Mountains. It was all very hot and thirsty work, and I passed three dehydrated semi-casualties before gaining the final climb up Tor y Foel. This is a nice little summit, directly above the YHA and dam to which the descent heads directly, with local knowledge a help again. The race finishes on the dam wall - a wonderful, aesthetically pleasing circuit, but the hottest 'long' I have done for several years (I think the Welsh 1000s in 2011 was the last time I did a 'long' that was this hot).

Tremadog climbing

Crag: Upper Tier/Two Face Buttress, Tremadog
Routes: Falling Block Crack (S:led), Gwynedd/Mistook (VS 4b:sec), KMA (HS 4a:led), Madog (VS 4c:sec), Olympic Slab (VS 4c:sec), Stromboli (HVS 5a:sec)
It hasn't been the most successful of years, rock-climbing wise, as the focus has been on multiple mountains instead. So this was a nice opportunity to get onto a rather obscure part of Tremadog that I hadn't visited before, Two-Face buttress, which is hidden below the Upper Tier, its lower pitches buried in vegetation. We kicked off on the more familiar terrain of the Upper Tier, however, where I led the easy Falling Block Crack for the second time. This goes to a small bulge around the block, which gives a few bridging moves to an easy finish: a nice, simple route to begin with. Vic led Mistook, which takes the curving finger crack to the right. I did the eliminate start (Gwynedd) at the same grade, but had to take the Mistook crack towards the top to retrieve the gear. KMA was a gap for me: it takes the obvious line on the left of the crag. The start is awkward: smooth rock with a puzzling move, few obvious holds, squirming up the broad crack to eventually gain projecting holds and a big ledge. After a move left round a tree, the route continues via some nice bridging to an upper rib. Quite enjoyable, and the sun came out giving wonderful views over the Rhinogs, estuary and Criccieth as I brought up Vic and Ceri. Madog takes the smooth and awkward jamming crack to the right, with a delicate and tricky finish (if you take it direct). After lunch, we hopped over the fence and abbed down to the tree below Olympic Slab. This takes an immaculate steep slab of perfect Tremadog rock, protected from crowds and polish by its inaccessibility. It is short, but harder than I expected: quite technical for a few moves. It goes up spikes to a very thin crack, which is delicate up to some small holds, then another crack, a tad easier, to the finishing groove. Very well positioned, with an exposed feel, despite its brevity. We then moved the rope and abseiled down the other side of the buttress where Vic led Stromboli. This is the archetypal 'route of character'. Again, only short, but with a big feel, packing a lot of climbing and variety in to 25m or so. It goes easily to a great undercut traverse, which requires some thought on a single 9mm, with very little for the feet and a precise sequence to gain a good hold at the end of the overhang. This gains an easy slab up to the impending double-overhang of the headwall. This is the second hard move, and probably the crux, up an overhanging groove, nudging upwards to gain an enormous hold with nothing for the feet until you find a perfect little ledge on the right wall. Hauling up gains the final slab and another hard move up right, to pull over to the belay. It started spitting with rain the second we all finished, then rained properly as we descended: excellent timing.

Two Hillforts fell race

Race: Two Hillforts fell race (8.5m/2600ft)
Time/Position: 1.18.44 (9th from 73)
A two month lay-off from racing, my longest in many years, so this (along with yesterday's Parkrun) was always going to be a shock to the system. As such, it went as well as could be expected, perhaps better as I felt fairly comfortable throughout, albeit very slow. The excellent new route seemed similar to the defunct Tavern Trial or Lletty, although it started from a different farm, contouring along to the same steep path up to the Moel Arthur car park. Then comes the brutally steep climb up the front of Moel Arthur, then a descent through the heather towards Pen y Cloddiau. This is always my favourite hill for running, and we took the fire road which climbs gently on the Vale side before running along the top of the hillfort to the summit. The weather was beautiful but windy, a nice late summer day. There were quite big gaps between runners - I passed one and was then passed by a fast finisher as we climbed back up to Llys y Coed for the long run in, which starts by the Cilcain col and ends with the superb grassy descent back to Llangynhafal.

Wepre Parkrun

"Race": Wepre Parkrun
Time/Position: 20.25 (3rd from 134)
My first Parkrun for almost two years, and inevitably my slowest ever. Despite that, this felt like a decent speed session amidst all the slow plodding and there are signs that it might not take too long to regain some speed when I finally get back to proper training. E is now volunteering, so there may be other opportunities to run the two-lap, hilly course through Wepre woods. It is always very pleasant, so it is odd that I've only done it three or four times. First on the age-graded results at least!

Berwyn run

Peaks: Cadair Bronwen, Cadair Berwyn, Moel Sych, Cadair Berwyn
Area: Berwyn, North Wales
An unsettled period of weather, with the clag fairly low over the ridge as we set off from a deserted Llandrillo, still early on Sunday morning. We set a decent pace throughout, up the very steep tarmac to the slightly gentler slopes via Moel Ty Uchaf to Moel Pearce. Then it was into the clag, sticking to the fence for the direct - but boggy - route up to the summit of Cadair Bronwen. It was fairly cold and windy here, but not as wet as forecast, so it was on with the coats. We were all going quite well (Stuart had joined Jez and I for the morning) and this route is runnable throughout. Light drizzle for the steep climb up Cadair Berwyn (last time I was here I bivvied just below the summit on a perfect May day in a drought), then along to the actual Berwyn highpoint before pelting flat-out along to Moel Sych. Instead of dropping down to Llyn Lluncaws, we ran back over Cadair Berwyn, then descended the very boggy permissive path back to Llandrillo, which is overgrown now in several places: 2.10 for the round.

Idwal climbing

Crag: Glyder Fawr, Idwal
Routes: The Other Direct Start (S 4b:sec), Tennis Shoe (HS 4a,4a,4b:led p.2), Original Route (VS 5a,4c:led p.2), Continuation Crack (HVS 5a:sec)
Over 30 years, I have done most of the possible 'enchainement' combinations up the cliffs of Glyder Fawr. Whichever combination of routes is selected, you are always guaranteed one of the best mountain days in Snowdonia as you make your way up the different crags leading towards the upper cliff. Today was a fairly standard selection, although Vic led a long alternative start to Tennis Shoe ('the other direct start') which I couldn't remember doing before. It is well to the right, much more direct and better than the polished normal start, I think, and has some delicate moves initially on very small holds, before cracks are gained. These look vegetated from below, but are OK, and give good climbing. This leads to a blanker section before a steeper final crack up to the belay: almost a 50m pitch. I then led up the enjoyable rib which is nicely positioned and good climbing, up to an easing and then a small belay ledge which we shared awkwardly with another pair. The angle eases here, so Vic scrambled up to the final tower before leading it. I remember leading this back in 1993 or so: it is surprisingly tricky with a precise sequence required (you have to find a sharp little hold after traversing left). Then comes the steep slab to the poised boulder right at the top. Next up was Original Route, all a bit wet and muddy at the start. Vic led - the first few moves are tricky, then comes the simple Crescent Slab, curving right to the off-width chimney crack which I well remembered from doing the route before. It is hard, grovelling stuff with no easy solutions, just arm jams and other unpleasantness. I led the final pitch, which is graded 4c but is easier: up a nice crack with good gear to a ledge, then moves right to a little spike and easy finish. We finished with a little gem, which neither of us had done before. Continuation Crack is directly above, just left of the more travelled trade route, Groove Above. It gives a superb pitch, with technical moves initially, which require a few delicate steps on the left wall. This leads to a wonderful pocketed section before the route steepens towards the top: this looked like the crux from below but was fairly straightforward, with the crack positive and more pockets. The rock is superb, and not too polished: a great pitch, somewhat remarkable that neither of us had done it before. We then descended down the hugely polished normal slabs descent, which is thought-provoking these days. We were back at out sacks less than three hours after setting off, nicely efficient.

Trevor climbing

Crag: Trevor, Eglwyseg
Routes: The Full Nine Llaths (f5a:sec), The Last Llath (f5a:led), Ogre in the Ogof (f5a:sec), Maevanwy (f6a:led), Screch yr Hebog (f5c:sec), Raptor Rap (f5a:sec), Merlin Magic (f5b:led)
I'd successfully avoided Trevor this year, but a short trip seemed in order today after a break from climbing of several weeks since Italy - partly because my gear was nicked in Bergamo. I dug out my old saggy harness, old shoes and second helmet and we had a decent few hours at the extreme left of the crag, where I repeated some routes that I did shortly after they were originally bolted a decade ago. They're not too bad, although as ever it's a bit of a comedown after continental limestone. Some of these routes were unticked in my guidebook, including The Last Llath and the pleasant Ogre in the Ogof which takes a nice slab. Maevanwy, supposedly 6a, was a first too - overgraded, it takes an easy slab to a blanker wall, with one or two delicate and technical moves to gain an excellent pocket. Another example of Brits misunderstanding the French grading system. Steve led the f5c up the shallow groove, the best line here with a thought-provoking move using a side-pull at mid-height. The square groove to the right is quite good, and the 5b takes the disjointed rib.