Race: Wrexham XC (N.Wales Cross Country League Race 3)
Time/Position: 32:59 (24th from 151)
A rare appearance in the cross-country league, and my 39th competitive race of 2010. A crystal clear winter's day, with snow on the ground, meant that visiting the Wrexham suburbs rather than the hills was a tall order. That said, it made a nice change, particularly as it was only my 2nd or 3rd appearance in the XC league. The league is normally very competitive, but was probably less so today. Despite this, I felt a bit off the pace and found it hard to keep going on the last two laps. It's a flat course, made even easier today by the frozen ground, so there were few excuses.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Mymbyr bouldering
We stayed in Conwy after the race, and went for a family bouldering outing today. The conditions could hardly have been less suitable, so it was perforce rather brief! We stopped at Idwal Cottage - all very damp, cold and greasy - so I just did the jamming crack (4) and scoop (10) before driving round to the RAC boulders in Mymbyr. This was a little more amenable, although still very greasy and cold, water in all the pockets. I did 10,11,12 on the slab, with M following 10, and E trying! Also did 1 and 6 (the good steep fin) on the central boulder, plus the easy Backside Arete. Afterwards, we had a walk and picnic at Capel Garmon, which was even colder: although it was satisfying to watch heavy rain sweep in over Ogwen as we lunched.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Penmaenmawr fell race
Race: Penmaenmawr fell race (10.5m/2000ft)
Time/Position: 1:22:23 (25th from 237)
Another race in which I felt rather below par, although I suspect that today it was more a case of tactical error (and I really enjoyed myself despite, or perhaps because, of this). The race was run in reverse for a change this year, and I was ultra-conservative on the climb to the quarry, which is actually pretty gentle. A glorious sunburst as we approached the Stone Circle, by which time I was already well off the pace. The bog wasn't really the place for a weak and spindly runner to claw back places, especially into the wind and uphill, so I left it until the road at Bwlch y Ddaefaen before opening up a bit. An immediate stitch put paid to that idea, so I was forced to recover before entering the mist above the final checkpoint near the fords. I finally felt able to move a bit more quickly here, and actually had a lot left. But it was too late, and the 'no overtaking' rule on the steep donkey-track descent was a tad frustrating as I finished at the back of a large group of runners having spent several miles catching them up! This was my fourth outing on one of my favourite races, slightly easier and more enjoyable this way round. Jogged back over Sychnant to Conwy after the post-race beer and soup, making it a 15-16 mile day.
Time/Position: 1:22:23 (25th from 237)
Another race in which I felt rather below par, although I suspect that today it was more a case of tactical error (and I really enjoyed myself despite, or perhaps because, of this). The race was run in reverse for a change this year, and I was ultra-conservative on the climb to the quarry, which is actually pretty gentle. A glorious sunburst as we approached the Stone Circle, by which time I was already well off the pace. The bog wasn't really the place for a weak and spindly runner to claw back places, especially into the wind and uphill, so I left it until the road at Bwlch y Ddaefaen before opening up a bit. An immediate stitch put paid to that idea, so I was forced to recover before entering the mist above the final checkpoint near the fords. I finally felt able to move a bit more quickly here, and actually had a lot left. But it was too late, and the 'no overtaking' rule on the steep donkey-track descent was a tad frustrating as I finished at the back of a large group of runners having spent several miles catching them up! This was my fourth outing on one of my favourite races, slightly easier and more enjoyable this way round. Jogged back over Sychnant to Conwy after the post-race beer and soup, making it a 15-16 mile day.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Capenhurst Border League
Race: Capenhurst 5.5m (border league race 2)
Time/Position: 30:44 (19th from 307 [5th V40])
Although a couple of places down on the first race this season, I was reasonably pleased with this effort. I needed a top 20 place, because I will miss the next race in December and have to wait until February for round four, so it was important to get a decent position here given how competitive the category is looking. Went off pretty fast and I never really felt comfortable, struggling to maintain the pace even before the second lap. It's a familiar course, though, and I knew I could keep it going on the second lap if necessary! Felt like a strong field, particularly in my category, with the time perhaps just equating to sub-28m 5 mile.
Time/Position: 30:44 (19th from 307 [5th V40])
Although a couple of places down on the first race this season, I was reasonably pleased with this effort. I needed a top 20 place, because I will miss the next race in December and have to wait until February for round four, so it was important to get a decent position here given how competitive the category is looking. Went off pretty fast and I never really felt comfortable, struggling to maintain the pace even before the second lap. It's a familiar course, though, and I knew I could keep it going on the second lap if necessary! Felt like a strong field, particularly in my category, with the time perhaps just equating to sub-28m 5 mile.
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Clwydian Hills race
Race: Clwydian Hills fell race (10m/3000ft)
Time/Position: 1:24:09 (25th from 180)
A dispiriting performance, although the reasons for it are not hard to fathom. It was a very strong field, a championship race, and I knew I didn't have sufficiently strong climbing legs to get anywhere near the pace as I have done very little running in the hills since the Breidden fell race. Indeed, I was torn between doing this and the Abergele 5 mile road race. I would probably have done better on the latter, but it would have been a cowardly cop-out given the crisp sunshine and fine conditions. I've always felt that this race is the most gruelling in the Clwydians, with the possible exception of the Lletty, largely because it is so relentless. I struggled throughout really, but particularly on the long climb back up Moel Dywyll from the Vale side. I went reasonably well up the gully to the top of Moel Famau, but couldn't catch a big group of runners on the descent. This group of 7 or 8 stayed a frustrating minute ahead, which meant I finished well down the field. My time was just a minute quicker than 2008, when the gully was choked with deep snow.
Time/Position: 1:24:09 (25th from 180)
A dispiriting performance, although the reasons for it are not hard to fathom. It was a very strong field, a championship race, and I knew I didn't have sufficiently strong climbing legs to get anywhere near the pace as I have done very little running in the hills since the Breidden fell race. Indeed, I was torn between doing this and the Abergele 5 mile road race. I would probably have done better on the latter, but it would have been a cowardly cop-out given the crisp sunshine and fine conditions. I've always felt that this race is the most gruelling in the Clwydians, with the possible exception of the Lletty, largely because it is so relentless. I struggled throughout really, but particularly on the long climb back up Moel Dywyll from the Vale side. I went reasonably well up the gully to the top of Moel Famau, but couldn't catch a big group of runners on the descent. This group of 7 or 8 stayed a frustrating minute ahead, which meant I finished well down the field. My time was just a minute quicker than 2008, when the gully was choked with deep snow.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Halloween Hellraiser race
Race: Halloween Hellraiser Multi-Terrain, Cheshire (9m XC)
Time/Position: 57:49 (6th from 196 [1st V40])
In ordinary circumstances, I would probably have done the OMM this weekend. A family weekend was more appealing than the long trip to Dartmoor, however, so I took the opportunity to do a longer cross-country/multi-terrain race for a change. The race is an excellent loop of the Cheshire countryside around Nantwich and Crewe, with lots of very varied running over fields, bogs, gravel roads, housing estates, short hills, a quarry and a graveyard. I gradually moved through the field throughout the race, gaining places all the way, and felt quite comfortable which was pleasing on a slightly longer race than I've been used to recently. The length and style of race, combined with the different location (which means different clubs and different runners, as with the Breidden Hill race) meant that this was therefore a pleasing addition to the 'palmares': I was first Vet again, and also picked up a prize for 6th overall (although neither was given during the prize-giving due to a cock-up!).
Time/Position: 57:49 (6th from 196 [1st V40])
In ordinary circumstances, I would probably have done the OMM this weekend. A family weekend was more appealing than the long trip to Dartmoor, however, so I took the opportunity to do a longer cross-country/multi-terrain race for a change. The race is an excellent loop of the Cheshire countryside around Nantwich and Crewe, with lots of very varied running over fields, bogs, gravel roads, housing estates, short hills, a quarry and a graveyard. I gradually moved through the field throughout the race, gaining places all the way, and felt quite comfortable which was pleasing on a slightly longer race than I've been used to recently. The length and style of race, combined with the different location (which means different clubs and different runners, as with the Breidden Hill race) meant that this was therefore a pleasing addition to the 'palmares': I was first Vet again, and also picked up a prize for 6th overall (although neither was given during the prize-giving due to a cock-up!).
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Caernarfon Border League
Race: Caernarfon 10k (Border League round 1)
Time/Position: 35:52 (17th from 231 [2nd V40])
Although I ran reasonably well on this, the most scenic and interesting of the Border League races, I was left feeling a bit disappointed with my time and position. In the past, I've found that when you move up a level in the league, it has the frustrating effect of losing you several places in the last 500m, when stronger runners put in a better finishing kick. This was the case today: I was up in 12th or 13th place at 5k, as the race moves inland after the seafront section. This is the furthest up the field I've ever been in the league, so I was inevitably hanging on a bit for the hilly final half. I managed to keep it going before being passed by two runners at 8k, then two more in the last 200m. Over a minute slower than my Cardiff time, although it was enough for 2nd Vet overall. Crystal clear views over Snowdonia and the sea, and I always enjoy the finish past the castle even if I am struggling.
Time/Position: 35:52 (17th from 231 [2nd V40])
Although I ran reasonably well on this, the most scenic and interesting of the Border League races, I was left feeling a bit disappointed with my time and position. In the past, I've found that when you move up a level in the league, it has the frustrating effect of losing you several places in the last 500m, when stronger runners put in a better finishing kick. This was the case today: I was up in 12th or 13th place at 5k, as the race moves inland after the seafront section. This is the furthest up the field I've ever been in the league, so I was inevitably hanging on a bit for the hilly final half. I managed to keep it going before being passed by two runners at 8k, then two more in the last 200m. Over a minute slower than my Cardiff time, although it was enough for 2nd Vet overall. Crystal clear views over Snowdonia and the sea, and I always enjoy the finish past the castle even if I am struggling.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Breidden Hills fell race
Race: Breidden Hills fell race, Powys (7m/2300ft/AM)
Time/Position: 1:02:12 (9th from 117 [1st V40])
The morning mist gradually cleared as we set off on this long-established race. I've wanted to do it for some time, but was still surprised by just how enjoyable, scenic and varied the area is. A gradual climb on forest roads leads round to fields (briefly crossing the English border) and the first sharp climb up to the ridge of Middletown Hill. Superb running along this, across a series of little grassy peaklets, leads to a long descent to a road. Then another climb, more gentle and runnable, leads to the top of Moel y Golfa, before a surprisingly awkward rocky descent. Steep and exhilarating running, with great views over the surrounding countryside (now sunny), and I managed to pick up some places on the next wooded section, marked 'New Pieces' on the map - presumably benefiting from recent 10k speed. These wooded undulations go on for a while through Breidden Forest, muddy in places, before the final steep climb to the top of Rodney's Pillar (obvious from the main Welshpool road below). The final descent from here is great: rocky at first, then fast, then very steep. Simon flew past me on the last steep hill, and we finished 7 seconds apart after all those hills and an hour of racing. I'd done enough to win first V40, though, which was surprising but nice: in a different area with different clubs competing. The home-made post-race food at the prize-giving in Criggion village hall was also excellent!
Time/Position: 1:02:12 (9th from 117 [1st V40])
The morning mist gradually cleared as we set off on this long-established race. I've wanted to do it for some time, but was still surprised by just how enjoyable, scenic and varied the area is. A gradual climb on forest roads leads round to fields (briefly crossing the English border) and the first sharp climb up to the ridge of Middletown Hill. Superb running along this, across a series of little grassy peaklets, leads to a long descent to a road. Then another climb, more gentle and runnable, leads to the top of Moel y Golfa, before a surprisingly awkward rocky descent. Steep and exhilarating running, with great views over the surrounding countryside (now sunny), and I managed to pick up some places on the next wooded section, marked 'New Pieces' on the map - presumably benefiting from recent 10k speed. These wooded undulations go on for a while through Breidden Forest, muddy in places, before the final steep climb to the top of Rodney's Pillar (obvious from the main Welshpool road below). The final descent from here is great: rocky at first, then fast, then very steep. Simon flew past me on the last steep hill, and we finished 7 seconds apart after all those hills and an hour of racing. I'd done enough to win first V40, though, which was surprising but nice: in a different area with different clubs competing. The home-made post-race food at the prize-giving in Criggion village hall was also excellent!
Sunday, October 03, 2010
Flintshire 10k
Race: Flintshire 10k
Time/Position: 35:28 (5th from 324 [1st V40])
Well down on my Cardiff time, but this was a strange race which reminded me of the Gamelin fell race last June in that I ran most of it on my own - which has an inevitable effect on motivation levels! I moved into fifth as we started up the hill in heavy rain, and quite quickly pulled out a gap. But there was no way I could catch the much better runner in fourth, so I concentrated on keeping a decent pace going. There was nobody in front or behind, and I stayed relatively comfortable throughout. As a result, it was all rather enjoyable and I was glad I'd chosen this rather than any of the other races taking place on the same day. After the finish, I jogged back round to run the last 3k with Kate. Ended up with three trophies at the prize giving (5th, 1st V40, 2nd team): a bit of a contrast to missing third place by tiny margins in my last two races!
Time/Position: 35:28 (5th from 324 [1st V40])
Well down on my Cardiff time, but this was a strange race which reminded me of the Gamelin fell race last June in that I ran most of it on my own - which has an inevitable effect on motivation levels! I moved into fifth as we started up the hill in heavy rain, and quite quickly pulled out a gap. But there was no way I could catch the much better runner in fourth, so I concentrated on keeping a decent pace going. There was nobody in front or behind, and I stayed relatively comfortable throughout. As a result, it was all rather enjoyable and I was glad I'd chosen this rather than any of the other races taking place on the same day. After the finish, I jogged back round to run the last 3k with Kate. Ended up with three trophies at the prize giving (5th, 1st V40, 2nd team): a bit of a contrast to missing third place by tiny margins in my last two races!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Rab Mountain Marathon
Race: Rab Mountain Marathon, day 2
Peaks: Gray Crag, Thornthwaite Crag, Mardale Ill Bell
Area: Eastern Lake District
Time/Position: 170 pts in 4:56 (10th from 271 [4th Vet])
I decided to throw caution to the wind today, given my overnight position. Started off at 8am, under cloudy skies, and jogged comfortably up Bannerdale back to Angle Tarn. It seemed pretty obvious to go for the big value checks around High Street again, although it is distinctly possible that a more subtle approach bagging more accessible lower value checks further north might have been more productive: certainly, the end result suggests that was the case. That said, the route choice felt right today from the off: I never questioned it (which is sometimes the case). From Angle Tarn, I headed up the ridge before contouring awkwardly to Hayeswater for a CP before the very steep climb up Gray Crag. This wasn't as bad as I'd expected, and it was satisfying to dib the 40 pointer in the mist on the summit. Thick mist and cold wind meant I felt the need to play it safe for the crossing of the plateau - going to the top of Thornthwaite Crag and navigating across the various paths (which I know from past experience to be confusing in mist) to the easterly route to Mardale Ill Bell. The wind tore a big hole in the clouds as I descended, superb views down Kentmere and superb running. This got even better as I descended the obvious spur from Ill Bell down to Blea Water. On my own, apart from one other well-placed runner who had pulled ahead after a chat. Some scrambling, a great rocky descent. Feeling good, I ran down to Haweswater and then faced a classic mountain marathon dilemma: whether I had the time/legs to reascend to 600m+ to gain a distant check in Randale Beck. The ethos of the day was to go for it, so I did, finding the Coast to Coast path a great help. I met up with the other chap again, and we ran together over the spur due east to pick up the Haweswater track at Whelter Beck after some awkward terrain and a tricky descent. This was always going to be the escape route, but I ended up cutting it finer than expected. It all culminated in a desperate race-pace dash for the final 6k, sprinting up the path to Aika Sike and getting a 10 pointer at Burnbanks before a final 2k sprint to the finish: 4 minutes to spare, 405 points. This was the hardest day I've had on a mountain marathon, in that I pushed it and maximised the time available: far more so than yesterday. So it was a surprise to find that I had missed third place by 3 points! That said, it was a fantastic event again and I was even more surprised to have the legs for the event, given that I'd spent the last two months training for entirely different purposes.
Peaks: Gray Crag, Thornthwaite Crag, Mardale Ill Bell
Area: Eastern Lake District
Time/Position: 170 pts in 4:56 (10th from 271 [4th Vet])
I decided to throw caution to the wind today, given my overnight position. Started off at 8am, under cloudy skies, and jogged comfortably up Bannerdale back to Angle Tarn. It seemed pretty obvious to go for the big value checks around High Street again, although it is distinctly possible that a more subtle approach bagging more accessible lower value checks further north might have been more productive: certainly, the end result suggests that was the case. That said, the route choice felt right today from the off: I never questioned it (which is sometimes the case). From Angle Tarn, I headed up the ridge before contouring awkwardly to Hayeswater for a CP before the very steep climb up Gray Crag. This wasn't as bad as I'd expected, and it was satisfying to dib the 40 pointer in the mist on the summit. Thick mist and cold wind meant I felt the need to play it safe for the crossing of the plateau - going to the top of Thornthwaite Crag and navigating across the various paths (which I know from past experience to be confusing in mist) to the easterly route to Mardale Ill Bell. The wind tore a big hole in the clouds as I descended, superb views down Kentmere and superb running. This got even better as I descended the obvious spur from Ill Bell down to Blea Water. On my own, apart from one other well-placed runner who had pulled ahead after a chat. Some scrambling, a great rocky descent. Feeling good, I ran down to Haweswater and then faced a classic mountain marathon dilemma: whether I had the time/legs to reascend to 600m+ to gain a distant check in Randale Beck. The ethos of the day was to go for it, so I did, finding the Coast to Coast path a great help. I met up with the other chap again, and we ran together over the spur due east to pick up the Haweswater track at Whelter Beck after some awkward terrain and a tricky descent. This was always going to be the escape route, but I ended up cutting it finer than expected. It all culminated in a desperate race-pace dash for the final 6k, sprinting up the path to Aika Sike and getting a 10 pointer at Burnbanks before a final 2k sprint to the finish: 4 minutes to spare, 405 points. This was the hardest day I've had on a mountain marathon, in that I pushed it and maximised the time available: far more so than yesterday. So it was a surprise to find that I had missed third place by 3 points! That said, it was a fantastic event again and I was even more surprised to have the legs for the event, given that I'd spent the last two months training for entirely different purposes.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Rab Mountain Marathon
Race: Rab Mountain Marathon, day 1
Peaks: Branstree, Adam Seat, High Street, Angletarn Pike, Beda Fell
Area: Eastern Lake District
Time/Position: 235 pts in 5:45 (9th from 271 [3rd Vet])
My favourite event seemed better than ever this year. For the third year in succession the weather was good, and the location this year was really tremendous - proper mountain terrain, albeit weirdly similar to the Saunders MM in July which I also did. After a cold night in Dan's van at the HQ in Bampton, I started solo in superb sunny weather from Drybarrows, making the usual hash of the first checkpoint as I adapted to the scale! Aika Sike was familiar from July, and I ran down this to a road section up to Naddle Bridge and Swindale. The outline of my chosen route had already formed, and I forded the stream to bash up a horrible vegetated gill (Mere Sike?). When the gorse began to draw blood from my face, I moved on to the Hare Shaw plateau! After dibbing a hidden CP, I got my running legs and ploughed across the plateau, picking an efficient line down to a 30 pointer in Guerness Gill. The long climb out and back round to Hopegill Beck was not as bad as I'd feared, and even the climb up Branstree went well with some food. Great views over High Street from the summit of Branstree confirmed my decision to go for the 40 pointer at Blea Tarn, mainly because I'd never been there before and it looked great. An easy run down to Gatesgarth pass, familiar from the SLMM, then up Adam Seat towards Harter Fell. I then picked my way down very steep terrain to Small Water (lovely spot) and contoured round to Blea Tarn on a superb, almost level trod. Noone else around, and I think this good route choice on this section gained me a lot of time and places. A lovely but tiring climb up the well-defined ridge of Long Stile gained the top of High Street and a cold wind. Great running down the busy ridge, before a very steep plunge towards Hayeswater and another crucial high-value check. My slow start was paying dividends now, and I kept a good pace down the valley to the climb beside Brock Crags to lumpy terrain overlooking Patterdale. A long, slower climb past scenic Angle Tarn led to a pass through the peaklets then a great runnable ridge all the way above Martindale to Beda Fell and the final check: the overnight camp visible below. I had enough time to pick up another 5 points before a leisurely jog to camp. The whole day felt very comfortable, so I was surprised to find myself 3rd vet overnight. The night was rather cold, to say the least, and I found myself re-thinking my insulation policy on several occasions!
Peaks: Branstree, Adam Seat, High Street, Angletarn Pike, Beda Fell
Area: Eastern Lake District
Time/Position: 235 pts in 5:45 (9th from 271 [3rd Vet])
My favourite event seemed better than ever this year. For the third year in succession the weather was good, and the location this year was really tremendous - proper mountain terrain, albeit weirdly similar to the Saunders MM in July which I also did. After a cold night in Dan's van at the HQ in Bampton, I started solo in superb sunny weather from Drybarrows, making the usual hash of the first checkpoint as I adapted to the scale! Aika Sike was familiar from July, and I ran down this to a road section up to Naddle Bridge and Swindale. The outline of my chosen route had already formed, and I forded the stream to bash up a horrible vegetated gill (Mere Sike?). When the gorse began to draw blood from my face, I moved on to the Hare Shaw plateau! After dibbing a hidden CP, I got my running legs and ploughed across the plateau, picking an efficient line down to a 30 pointer in Guerness Gill. The long climb out and back round to Hopegill Beck was not as bad as I'd feared, and even the climb up Branstree went well with some food. Great views over High Street from the summit of Branstree confirmed my decision to go for the 40 pointer at Blea Tarn, mainly because I'd never been there before and it looked great. An easy run down to Gatesgarth pass, familiar from the SLMM, then up Adam Seat towards Harter Fell. I then picked my way down very steep terrain to Small Water (lovely spot) and contoured round to Blea Tarn on a superb, almost level trod. Noone else around, and I think this good route choice on this section gained me a lot of time and places. A lovely but tiring climb up the well-defined ridge of Long Stile gained the top of High Street and a cold wind. Great running down the busy ridge, before a very steep plunge towards Hayeswater and another crucial high-value check. My slow start was paying dividends now, and I kept a good pace down the valley to the climb beside Brock Crags to lumpy terrain overlooking Patterdale. A long, slower climb past scenic Angle Tarn led to a pass through the peaklets then a great runnable ridge all the way above Martindale to Beda Fell and the final check: the overnight camp visible below. I had enough time to pick up another 5 points before a leisurely jog to camp. The whole day felt very comfortable, so I was surprised to find myself 3rd vet overnight. The night was rather cold, to say the least, and I found myself re-thinking my insulation policy on several occasions!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Peak '40@40' climbs
Crag: Windgather, Western Peak
Routes: Rib and Slab (M:Sol), Buttress Two Gully (M:sol), Leg Stump (D:sol), Middle and Leg (D:sol), Centre (HVD:sol), Broken Cracks (D:sol), High Buttress Arete (D:sol), High Buttress Arete Direct (HVD), Corner Crack (VD:sol), Toe Nail (VD:sol), The Corner (D:sol), The Corner Middle Buttress (M:sol), Wall Climb (HVD:sol), Chockstone Chimney (D:sol), Small Wall (S 4b:sol), The Staircase (M:sol), Red Nose Route (D:sol), Bay Wall (S:sol), Aged Crack (S 4a:sol), Face Route 2 (D:sol), Face Route 1 (HVD:sol), Overhanging Arete (VD:sol), Groove (M:sol), Left Triplet Crack (M:sol), Discontinuous Rib (M:sol), Side Face (S 4a:sol), First's Arete (VD:sol)
Crag: Castle Naze, Western Peak
Routes: Double Crack (VD:sol), The Arete (HS 4b:sol), Crack 1 (D:sol), Crack 2 (D:sol), Crack 3 (D:sol), Pinnacle Crack (VD:sol), Pinnacle Arete (VD:sol), Sheltered Crack (VD:sol), Slanting Crack* (S:sol), V Chimney (D:sol), South Buttress (D:sol), Boomerang (M:sol), Overhanging Chimney (HVD:sol)
I had a vague idea to do 40 climbs in a day as the easiest method of marking my 40th year. The other planned options - 40 competitive races and 40 peaks in a day - are a tad more challenging, but still on the schedule. However, not being a gritstone 'native' I hadn't realised quite how quickly you can bag a large number of easy routes, having always concentrated on proper climbing whenever I'd visited the region in the past. Actually, 40 is a straightforward target, perhaps 100 routes would have been more meaningful as a 'challenge'. Windgather, the easiest crag in the Peak above a very pleasant valley on the edge of Cheshire, was an obvious starting point. It was early morning, with a cold breeze and no sunshine, so chilly fingers ensued. But I still enjoyed the rapid movement over these very simple routes, particularly the charming and well positioned High Buttress Arete, for which the sun came out as I moved round the arete onto the upper wall. I also enjoyed the juggy Aged Crack, and other fun routes scattered across the buttresses, particularly First's Arete, Wall Climb and the misnamed Chockstone Chimney. I found that I had bagged well over 20 routes in less than 90 minutes, and drove over to Castle Naze for a break. I'd never been to this venue before, unlike Windgather, and thought the proper longer routes look well worth a future visit. Not an option today, though. Instead, numerous short routes around the Pinnacle, and further right, allowed me to reach 40 routes quite easily - about 2.5 hours in total. As a result, I had enough time to go to work, then do the full run up Moel Famau later on.
Routes: Rib and Slab (M:Sol), Buttress Two Gully (M:sol), Leg Stump (D:sol), Middle and Leg (D:sol), Centre (HVD:sol), Broken Cracks (D:sol), High Buttress Arete (D:sol), High Buttress Arete Direct (HVD), Corner Crack (VD:sol), Toe Nail (VD:sol), The Corner (D:sol), The Corner Middle Buttress (M:sol), Wall Climb (HVD:sol), Chockstone Chimney (D:sol), Small Wall (S 4b:sol), The Staircase (M:sol), Red Nose Route (D:sol), Bay Wall (S:sol), Aged Crack (S 4a:sol), Face Route 2 (D:sol), Face Route 1 (HVD:sol), Overhanging Arete (VD:sol), Groove (M:sol), Left Triplet Crack (M:sol), Discontinuous Rib (M:sol), Side Face (S 4a:sol), First's Arete (VD:sol)
Crag: Castle Naze, Western Peak
Routes: Double Crack (VD:sol), The Arete (HS 4b:sol), Crack 1 (D:sol), Crack 2 (D:sol), Crack 3 (D:sol), Pinnacle Crack (VD:sol), Pinnacle Arete (VD:sol), Sheltered Crack (VD:sol), Slanting Crack* (S:sol), V Chimney (D:sol), South Buttress (D:sol), Boomerang (M:sol), Overhanging Chimney (HVD:sol)
I had a vague idea to do 40 climbs in a day as the easiest method of marking my 40th year. The other planned options - 40 competitive races and 40 peaks in a day - are a tad more challenging, but still on the schedule. However, not being a gritstone 'native' I hadn't realised quite how quickly you can bag a large number of easy routes, having always concentrated on proper climbing whenever I'd visited the region in the past. Actually, 40 is a straightforward target, perhaps 100 routes would have been more meaningful as a 'challenge'. Windgather, the easiest crag in the Peak above a very pleasant valley on the edge of Cheshire, was an obvious starting point. It was early morning, with a cold breeze and no sunshine, so chilly fingers ensued. But I still enjoyed the rapid movement over these very simple routes, particularly the charming and well positioned High Buttress Arete, for which the sun came out as I moved round the arete onto the upper wall. I also enjoyed the juggy Aged Crack, and other fun routes scattered across the buttresses, particularly First's Arete, Wall Climb and the misnamed Chockstone Chimney. I found that I had bagged well over 20 routes in less than 90 minutes, and drove over to Castle Naze for a break. I'd never been to this venue before, unlike Windgather, and thought the proper longer routes look well worth a future visit. Not an option today, though. Instead, numerous short routes around the Pinnacle, and further right, allowed me to reach 40 routes quite easily - about 2.5 hours in total. As a result, I had enough time to go to work, then do the full run up Moel Famau later on.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Cardiff 10k
Race: Cardiff 10k (Welsh Championships)
Time/Position: 34:45 (45th from 3000 [4th v40])
I'd had around five weeks to prepare for this, having been selected to represent North Wales Masters in the Welsh Championships in early August. I was obviously keen to justify my selection, but I'd only had time for three intervals sessions after a summer running exclusively in the hills. However, those three sessions plus my performance in the Capenhurst 5k rather surprisingly suggested that I could get close to a sub-35 minute PB. So I was reasonably confident, and ended up enjoying the weekend and the very different experience of a championship race (my debut at this level of racing after 200 races and 12 years of running!). I paced it quite well through Bute Park, in warmish sunny conditions, deliberately laying down a 15 second buffer in the first 3k then keeping to 3:30 target pace. Some of the route was familiar from the Cardiff Marathon which I did in 2006. I got into a decent group of 7 or 8 runners, with Jez, for around 1k through Llandaff fields at halfway, before the group broke up a bit. The final 3k were then inevitably pretty tough, but the long finishing straight was a great help. Obviously a very strong field, with a home international meet combined with the regional and national championships. Pleased to put in a decent performance in my regional debut, but slightly gutted to miss both the Welsh Champs bronze medal and the 3rd vet in the overall race by five seconds!
Time/Position: 34:45 (45th from 3000 [4th v40])
I'd had around five weeks to prepare for this, having been selected to represent North Wales Masters in the Welsh Championships in early August. I was obviously keen to justify my selection, but I'd only had time for three intervals sessions after a summer running exclusively in the hills. However, those three sessions plus my performance in the Capenhurst 5k rather surprisingly suggested that I could get close to a sub-35 minute PB. So I was reasonably confident, and ended up enjoying the weekend and the very different experience of a championship race (my debut at this level of racing after 200 races and 12 years of running!). I paced it quite well through Bute Park, in warmish sunny conditions, deliberately laying down a 15 second buffer in the first 3k then keeping to 3:30 target pace. Some of the route was familiar from the Cardiff Marathon which I did in 2006. I got into a decent group of 7 or 8 runners, with Jez, for around 1k through Llandaff fields at halfway, before the group broke up a bit. The final 3k were then inevitably pretty tough, but the long finishing straight was a great help. Obviously a very strong field, with a home international meet combined with the regional and national championships. Pleased to put in a decent performance in my regional debut, but slightly gutted to miss both the Welsh Champs bronze medal and the 3rd vet in the overall race by five seconds!
Sunday, September 05, 2010
Llantisilio mountain run
An excellent run in the hills with Neil and Jez. After six races in August alone, it was very pleasant to be able to enjoy a relaxing long social run for once. We'd come up with the idea of combining the Ponderosa fell race with the Moel y Gamelin fell race into one longish (15 mile, 8 peak) outing, and this seemed a good day for it. The weather was grim as we set off up Cyrn y Brain: low cloud, driving cold wind, light rain. Still, it improved slightly as we contoured the hillside above Eglwyseg, with the occasional hint of a view, before ploughing through the bogs that are so energy sapping on the race. The climb from the bottom of this valley up Moel y Faen via the Ponderosa is obviously pretty long, but reasonably gentle. From here, it stayed windy as we traversed the ridge over Gamelin, Moel y Gaer, and Morfydd to emerge near Bwlch y Groes. The long moorland section overlooking Berwyn allowed for more relaxed conversation before we began the tiring haul back to the ridge and back over the summits of Gamelin and Faen (2:25 for the round at conversational pace).
Saturday, September 04, 2010
Acheron, Craig Cywarch
Crag: Craig Llywellyn/North Buttress, Craig Cywarch
Route: Acheron (HVS 4c,4c,4c,4b,5a:led p.2,4)
This route is generally described as a 'magnificent mountaineering expedition' and it is difficult to improve on that. We'd been so impressed with Cywarch during our previous trip in April that we were both very keen to sample the larger, more atmospheric cliffs along the north-eastern edge of the escarpment. Tucked away up a side valley, Acheron takes the most obvious feature - an enormous 150m rib running the full height of the cliff - indirectly via an intricate and wonderfully varied sequence of pitches. Rain was forecast for mid-afternoon, but we judged that last week's dry weather would allow for an enjoyable ascent before it arrived. Vic led up the slabby first pitch, with one tricky move over an overlap. I then led the excellent second, up a slanting groove with good gear to a memorable traverse on fine juggy holds across the right wall to gain a slabby nose. Up this to a distinctly unpleasant heather ledge which led right to the belay. The third pitch was just as good: a nice slab leads diagonally left to the arete, before a superbly positioned groove, steep but with huge holds, leads to another juggy traverse left to the gully. I led the fourth, which was similar to the second, although shorter and easier. Again, a steep crack with excellent gear led to a guano covered mini-cave. Then a semi hand-traverse below a bulge on splendid sharp holds leads back right to the rib and a fine belay. Vic led the crux 5a pitch: an awkward and steep chimney which led to a smooth open groove, tricky bridging, before easier and more broken climbing up a series of vegetated grooves and ribs led to the final short wall. A memorable route, with excellent non-technical but always interesting climbing, which is improved immeasurably by the wonderfully isolated position in this beautiful tranquil valley. The adventure continues with the descent down Llwybr Llewellyn, a broad but very vegetated shelf leading back to the cwm. This was a tiring struggle through thick heather and ferns, and I began to feel the effects of last night's run up Moel Famau. Plans to continue up Doom were shelved due to light rain (which soon became heavier) and the need to get home before 5pm, so we left before 3pm.
Route: Acheron (HVS 4c,4c,4c,4b,5a:led p.2,4)
This route is generally described as a 'magnificent mountaineering expedition' and it is difficult to improve on that. We'd been so impressed with Cywarch during our previous trip in April that we were both very keen to sample the larger, more atmospheric cliffs along the north-eastern edge of the escarpment. Tucked away up a side valley, Acheron takes the most obvious feature - an enormous 150m rib running the full height of the cliff - indirectly via an intricate and wonderfully varied sequence of pitches. Rain was forecast for mid-afternoon, but we judged that last week's dry weather would allow for an enjoyable ascent before it arrived. Vic led up the slabby first pitch, with one tricky move over an overlap. I then led the excellent second, up a slanting groove with good gear to a memorable traverse on fine juggy holds across the right wall to gain a slabby nose. Up this to a distinctly unpleasant heather ledge which led right to the belay. The third pitch was just as good: a nice slab leads diagonally left to the arete, before a superbly positioned groove, steep but with huge holds, leads to another juggy traverse left to the gully. I led the fourth, which was similar to the second, although shorter and easier. Again, a steep crack with excellent gear led to a guano covered mini-cave. Then a semi hand-traverse below a bulge on splendid sharp holds leads back right to the rib and a fine belay. Vic led the crux 5a pitch: an awkward and steep chimney which led to a smooth open groove, tricky bridging, before easier and more broken climbing up a series of vegetated grooves and ribs led to the final short wall. A memorable route, with excellent non-technical but always interesting climbing, which is improved immeasurably by the wonderfully isolated position in this beautiful tranquil valley. The adventure continues with the descent down Llwybr Llewellyn, a broad but very vegetated shelf leading back to the cwm. This was a tiring struggle through thick heather and ferns, and I began to feel the effects of last night's run up Moel Famau. Plans to continue up Doom were shelved due to light rain (which soon became heavier) and the need to get home before 5pm, so we left before 3pm.
Thursday, September 02, 2010
East Face of Bristly Ridge
Crag: East Face, Bristly Ridge, Glyder Fach
Routes: Skyline Buttress (S 4a,4a,4a:led p.1,3), Great Tower Buttress (HS 4a,4b,-,4a,4a: led p.2,4,5)
Time was even more limited than usual today: I had five hours in total (car to car). So this was a rather frantic dash to bag the two best routes on the East Face of Bristly (excellent weather meant it would have been rude to have done anything except big mountain routes). We ploughed up to Bwlch Tryfan in perfect weather in less than 30 minutes and were soon getting our bearings on this rather complex crag. It bears many similarities with Tryfan's East Face, although a tad steeper, but I'd never climbed here before (neither have most climbers: it is far more tranquil). Skyline Buttress draws the eye from the Bwlch, looking quite impressive as its name suggests, and gives a nice climb up the left side of the face. I led up a rib to a ledge, then a pleasant slab gives access to a steeper rib which is climbed on good holds: superb rough and unpolished rock throughout. Alwyn then led the enjoyable and eye-catching broad groove above, which has a good traverse to gain an upper slab, where he belayed. I led up the slab on huge holds to merge with the final pitch: a surprisingly steep wall which leads to a brief knife-edge arete. We descended to the sacs, had a very quick bite, and ploughed on. Alwyn led the scrappy first pitch of Great Tower Buttress, up ribs to a ledge. I then led the jamming crack on pitch 2: steeply up to a small ledge, then better holds lead up right to a chimney which is climbed on its right wall. Quite strenuous for the grade. Alwyn led over a horizontal ridge, giving me the last two pitches which were both splendid. A really enjoyable open groove on superb holds leads to a belay ledge below the Great Tower. Then a wide groove, with a crack on the right wall, provides a meaty and excellent climax. Steep climbing on big holds emerging into the sunshine on the top of the Great Tower in the centre of Bristly Ridge. Much better than Skyline Buttress, a route with a lovely mountain ambience. I now had 30 minutes to get back to the car. Central Gully gave an interesting and enjoyable descent from atmospheric Tower Gap, and I then ran back - good pace - to the car in Ogwen in 20 minutes.
Routes: Skyline Buttress (S 4a,4a,4a:led p.1,3), Great Tower Buttress (HS 4a,4b,-,4a,4a: led p.2,4,5)
Time was even more limited than usual today: I had five hours in total (car to car). So this was a rather frantic dash to bag the two best routes on the East Face of Bristly (excellent weather meant it would have been rude to have done anything except big mountain routes). We ploughed up to Bwlch Tryfan in perfect weather in less than 30 minutes and were soon getting our bearings on this rather complex crag. It bears many similarities with Tryfan's East Face, although a tad steeper, but I'd never climbed here before (neither have most climbers: it is far more tranquil). Skyline Buttress draws the eye from the Bwlch, looking quite impressive as its name suggests, and gives a nice climb up the left side of the face. I led up a rib to a ledge, then a pleasant slab gives access to a steeper rib which is climbed on good holds: superb rough and unpolished rock throughout. Alwyn then led the enjoyable and eye-catching broad groove above, which has a good traverse to gain an upper slab, where he belayed. I led up the slab on huge holds to merge with the final pitch: a surprisingly steep wall which leads to a brief knife-edge arete. We descended to the sacs, had a very quick bite, and ploughed on. Alwyn led the scrappy first pitch of Great Tower Buttress, up ribs to a ledge. I then led the jamming crack on pitch 2: steeply up to a small ledge, then better holds lead up right to a chimney which is climbed on its right wall. Quite strenuous for the grade. Alwyn led over a horizontal ridge, giving me the last two pitches which were both splendid. A really enjoyable open groove on superb holds leads to a belay ledge below the Great Tower. Then a wide groove, with a crack on the right wall, provides a meaty and excellent climax. Steep climbing on big holds emerging into the sunshine on the top of the Great Tower in the centre of Bristly Ridge. Much better than Skyline Buttress, a route with a lovely mountain ambience. I now had 30 minutes to get back to the car. Central Gully gave an interesting and enjoyable descent from atmospheric Tower Gap, and I then ran back - good pace - to the car in Ogwen in 20 minutes.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Moel Famau fell race
Race: Cilcain Mountain Race (5m/1237ft/AS)
Time/Position: 36:24 (10th from 179 [1st v40])
This was my seventh running of this long-established race. I certainly didn't think I'd ever be among the prizes when I was finishing 70th in 2003 or 87th in 2005 (although I did finish 8th in 2008). I was a bit lucky to win my category here, probably, but felt I put in a decent performance. The new course is a vast improvement on the old out-and-back route: no more collisions on the way down. The weather was perfect, with blue skies and tremendous clarity of light, although perhaps a little warm. I have never seen so many people watching a fell race, either, it almost felt like the atmosphere of an Alpine race as I arrived at the summit (a record for me - 20:50 from the village). I descended reasonably well, passing three and getting passed by two, and really enjoyed being able to open up a bit, feeling fairly sharp after recent speedwork and numerous short, fast races. The new route takes the Clwydian Hills race descent to emerge near the reservoir, and I managed to hold it together for the final climb back to the village. Pleased but rather surprised to be awarded the veteran's trophy at the showground later.
Time/Position: 36:24 (10th from 179 [1st v40])
This was my seventh running of this long-established race. I certainly didn't think I'd ever be among the prizes when I was finishing 70th in 2003 or 87th in 2005 (although I did finish 8th in 2008). I was a bit lucky to win my category here, probably, but felt I put in a decent performance. The new course is a vast improvement on the old out-and-back route: no more collisions on the way down. The weather was perfect, with blue skies and tremendous clarity of light, although perhaps a little warm. I have never seen so many people watching a fell race, either, it almost felt like the atmosphere of an Alpine race as I arrived at the summit (a record for me - 20:50 from the village). I descended reasonably well, passing three and getting passed by two, and really enjoyed being able to open up a bit, feeling fairly sharp after recent speedwork and numerous short, fast races. The new route takes the Clwydian Hills race descent to emerge near the reservoir, and I managed to hold it together for the final climb back to the village. Pleased but rather surprised to be awarded the veteran's trophy at the showground later.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Capenhurst 5k
Race: Capenhurst 5k
Time/Position: 16:59 (13th from 187 [2nd v40])
Apart from a couple of plodded 5k races in 2006, including this one, I'd never raced at the distance before. It was also my first road race for several months, certainly my first short road race since April, so I was surprised and pleased to feel quite good throughout and to record a decent time after a summer running and racing on the hills (inevitably, I recorded a huge pb). Conditions were good, and this is well known as a competitive and fast race, which all helps. I slowed slightly between 3 and 4k, before picking it up well towards the finish when I realised sub-17 was on the cards. Only just made it! Won the v40 prize, which was pleasing on this fairly prestigious race, although in reality the 2nd runner overall was also in the category.
Time/Position: 16:59 (13th from 187 [2nd v40])
Apart from a couple of plodded 5k races in 2006, including this one, I'd never raced at the distance before. It was also my first road race for several months, certainly my first short road race since April, so I was surprised and pleased to feel quite good throughout and to record a decent time after a summer running and racing on the hills (inevitably, I recorded a huge pb). Conditions were good, and this is well known as a competitive and fast race, which all helps. I slowed slightly between 3 and 4k, before picking it up well towards the finish when I realised sub-17 was on the cards. Only just made it! Won the v40 prize, which was pleasing on this fairly prestigious race, although in reality the 2nd runner overall was also in the category.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Castle Inn climbing
Crag: Castle Inn, Llysfaen
Routes: Mogadishu (f4+:sec), More Than This (f6a:sec), School Mam (f6a:led), Indian Summer (f6a:led), Route 1 (f5:sec), October Premiere (f5+:led), Conan the Libertarian (f6a:sec), Finale (f5:sec)
Plans to head up to the East Face of Bristly Ridge dissipated in torrential rain and -6C windchill a few minutes into the walk up Cwm Tryfan. A miserably wet drive back down the A55 saw us pull into Castle Inn in a last-ditch attempt to salvage something: the only possible option although it was still raining when Dale led the very scrappy new route on the left of the crag. Seconded the 6a arete, before leading the adjacent School Mam in strong winds and light rain. I think I last led this many years ago when it was a disjointed 6b, traversing in from the right. The new line is more direct, giving easier but better climbing. Despite the weather, I cruised up the route and found it surprisingly good, one of the best routes here: very nice moves up small but positive holds and edges lead to juggier climbing at the overlap. A heavy squally shower then drenched the crag, so we had lunch in the car before moving over to the newly developed Fine View Wall which was sheltered from the worst of the wind and rain. Indian Summer gives some very nice climbing, up small positive edges on very rough, excellent limestone (by UK standards). Sadly, it is a rather contrived line which is just a bit too close to the arete and the adjacent VS. Dale led Route 1, which I then went up for the 10th time! Finished with two new chossy routes on a hidden wall to the right, which were at least out of the wind. Decent workouts but a tad dirty.
Routes: Mogadishu (f4+:sec), More Than This (f6a:sec), School Mam (f6a:led), Indian Summer (f6a:led), Route 1 (f5:sec), October Premiere (f5+:led), Conan the Libertarian (f6a:sec), Finale (f5:sec)
Plans to head up to the East Face of Bristly Ridge dissipated in torrential rain and -6C windchill a few minutes into the walk up Cwm Tryfan. A miserably wet drive back down the A55 saw us pull into Castle Inn in a last-ditch attempt to salvage something: the only possible option although it was still raining when Dale led the very scrappy new route on the left of the crag. Seconded the 6a arete, before leading the adjacent School Mam in strong winds and light rain. I think I last led this many years ago when it was a disjointed 6b, traversing in from the right. The new line is more direct, giving easier but better climbing. Despite the weather, I cruised up the route and found it surprisingly good, one of the best routes here: very nice moves up small but positive holds and edges lead to juggier climbing at the overlap. A heavy squally shower then drenched the crag, so we had lunch in the car before moving over to the newly developed Fine View Wall which was sheltered from the worst of the wind and rain. Indian Summer gives some very nice climbing, up small positive edges on very rough, excellent limestone (by UK standards). Sadly, it is a rather contrived line which is just a bit too close to the arete and the adjacent VS. Dale led Route 1, which I then went up for the 10th time! Finished with two new chossy routes on a hidden wall to the right, which were at least out of the wind. Decent workouts but a tad dirty.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Craig y Tonnau climbs, Moelwyn run
Crag: Craig y Tonnau, Cwm Lledr
Routes: Robbin's Nest (S:sh), Dentist's Slab (S:sh), Central Crack (VD:sh), Robbin's Right Hand (S:sh), Robbin's Reliant (VD:sh)
Rain was forecast to sweep westwards over Snowdonia by 9am, so I left Ffestiniog alone at 7am intent on a few routes and a good run before it arrived. The drizzle started before I reached Blaenau, predictably enough, and was torrential by the top of the Crimea. However, I persisted because it was so early, and turned off at the Roman Bridge for Blaenau Dolwyddelan. A very soggy walk got me to Craig y Tonnau, which is a strange little crag of wavy granular rock above a conifer forest, and I shunted a few routes in light rain with occasional heavier bursts. As expected, the rock was so rough and juggy, and the climbing so easy, that the weather didn't matter. No real lines here, apart from the enjoyable Central Crack which ascends the eponymous feature on huge holds, but the climbing is pleasant and certainly a good choice this morning. After about 50 minutes and five routes, the rain became unpleasantly heavy so I jogged back to the car and changed into running gear. I ran at a decent pace (21m) up the forest roads to Llynnau Diwaunydd, a beautiful and isolated spot, one of the finest lakes in Eryri. I was tempted to continue up Siabod, as the rain had stopped, but opted to extend the outing by running further down the lower valley to Coed Mawr instead because I wanted to get home early (it was still before 10am).
Routes: Robbin's Nest (S:sh), Dentist's Slab (S:sh), Central Crack (VD:sh), Robbin's Right Hand (S:sh), Robbin's Reliant (VD:sh)
Rain was forecast to sweep westwards over Snowdonia by 9am, so I left Ffestiniog alone at 7am intent on a few routes and a good run before it arrived. The drizzle started before I reached Blaenau, predictably enough, and was torrential by the top of the Crimea. However, I persisted because it was so early, and turned off at the Roman Bridge for Blaenau Dolwyddelan. A very soggy walk got me to Craig y Tonnau, which is a strange little crag of wavy granular rock above a conifer forest, and I shunted a few routes in light rain with occasional heavier bursts. As expected, the rock was so rough and juggy, and the climbing so easy, that the weather didn't matter. No real lines here, apart from the enjoyable Central Crack which ascends the eponymous feature on huge holds, but the climbing is pleasant and certainly a good choice this morning. After about 50 minutes and five routes, the rain became unpleasantly heavy so I jogged back to the car and changed into running gear. I ran at a decent pace (21m) up the forest roads to Llynnau Diwaunydd, a beautiful and isolated spot, one of the finest lakes in Eryri. I was tempted to continue up Siabod, as the rain had stopped, but opted to extend the outing by running further down the lower valley to Coed Mawr instead because I wanted to get home early (it was still before 10am).
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